OUTSTANDING BUSINESS: Breckenridge Grand Vacations

Nominated by: Ellen Reid and Tara Dew

Since 1984, Breckenridge Grand Vacations (BGV) has donated over $15 million locally and each year donates over $1.4 million in cash and in-kind support to the community. BGV is so committed to 'Doing Well by Doing Good' that this year they established a Community Impact Department fully devoted to giving back and creating an impact on local environmental, social, and philanthropic causes. This culture of compassion also extends to its employees, and BGV actively encourages them to become philanthropic champions. The employees actively participate in community engagement through projects like the trail builds of the Friends of the Dillon Ranger District, the BGV Wheels for Kids Day, blood donations, the company’s annual Rob Millisor Heart Health Walk, and many more. With their strong commitment to the community through the company and their employees, BGV's philanthropic legacy will have a positive impact for years to come.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN: Dr. Charles Lackey

Nominated by: Dr. Kathleen Cowie, Summit Community Care Clinic

For over 40 years, Dr. Charles Lackey has had a commitment to the well-being of Summit County's underserved populations. His passion for equitable healthcare access is rooted in his belief that healthcare should be a universal right, not a privilege. His journey began in the early 1990s when he played a pivotal role in establishing the Summit Community Care Clinic, at that time a volunteer-driven medical facility addressing the healthcare needs of uninsured residents. Over the years, his dedication to this cause grew exponentially, with Dr. Lackey providing free medical care to countless patients, which was in addition to his local private practice. Under his guidance, the Clinic evolved into a Federally Qualified Health Center, serving thousands of people annually across multiple counties. Dr. Lackey’s devotion to serving the underserved epitomizes the essence of philanthropy, community service, and giving back to others.

OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR: Oakley Van Oss

Nominated by: Brad Piehl, Education Foundation of the Summit

In the realm of education, where the future unfolds through the lens of innovation and the compass of passion, Oakley Van Oss stands as a beacon of inspiration. Initially a Spanish teacher, Mr. Van Oss embarked on a remarkable journey to expand both career and technology opportunities for students at Summit High School. His commitment to these students led to the creation of a thriving Welding Technology program, attracting students from various backgrounds and abilities. His dynamic and personal teaching approach emphasizes safety, teamwork, and hands-on learning, fostering an environment where all students can thrive and be proud. Beyond welding, he has transformed the construction tech program, securing grants to upgrade facilities, and now embarking on a new mission to allow students to design and build "tiny homes" for the community. Oakley Van Oss's passion, vision, and dedication have enriched the educational experiences of countless students and have undoubtedly made a profound and lasting impact on the students and their lives, both tin he classroom and for the broader community.

DR. OLIVER STONINGTON OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPISTS: Trish and Steve Shapiro

Nominated by: Dave Askeland and Stephanie Beste, Colorado Mountain College

The Dr. Oliver Stonington Outstanding Philanthropist Award this year is dedicated to a couple that goes above and beyond, ensuring the betterment of our community and inspiring others with their exceptional dedication. Trish and Steve Shapiro's remarkable generosity has extended to multiple nonprofits and organizations, and each year they offer a generous match for donations to the Summit Foundation. Their dedication is forward-focused and goes beyond the immediate needs of our community, demonstrated by their recent generous donation to the creation of the new Nursing and Outdoor Skills Classroom on the CMC campus in Breck. Their passion for the community is extended to their donation of time and expertise, and they each serve on the Board of Directors of several organizations including the Summit Foundation and the CMC Foundation. They personally mentor CMC students, helping them to navigate college and life. Trish and Steve Shapiro's philanthropic impact is extraordinary, and their passion for Summit County is highly contagious and shared generously with their family, friends, and neighbors.

OUTSTANDING PROFESSIONAL IN A NONPROFIT: Jen Schenk

Nominated by: Jessie Burley, Town of Breckenridge and Jen Cawley, HC3 Board Member

Over her impressive 22-year tenure at HC3, Jen's leadership has brought about a myriad of impactful community-wide efforts, from community composting to enhancing recycling access to securing sustainable funding for waste reduction programs in Summit County and substantially increasing awareness of environmental impact. Her commitment and leadership with a multi-pronged approach has expanded HC3's influence beyond waste reduction to encompass policymaking and program implementation in energy efficiency, water conservation, and local climate action. Jen’s accomplishments include a 400% increase in HC3's revenue, solidifying the organization's reputation as Summit County's premiere environmental educator, and fostering county-wide awareness of the benefits of climate action. Jen’s leadership at HC3 has helped to make Summit County residents aware of the local impact that can be made to raise awareness and reduce our global footprint.

OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER: Javier Gaspar Gutierrez

Nominated by: Judy Phillips, Bethany Immigration Services

Widely recognized for his diligence, cheerfulness, and unwavering commitment to our community, Javier Gaspar Gutierrez has selflessly dedicated his time to the mission of Bethany Immigration Services and helping people. His selfless dedication to assisting immigrants, even while managing the demands of his successful business, exemplifies his sincere concern for the community. Javier’s steadfast support for Bethany Immigration Services, which focuses on providing affordable legal assistance to immigrants and their families, has profoundly impacted those in need. As the owner of Perfect Service Cleaning Contractors, Javier harnesses his strong relationships and caring customers to raise substantial funds for Bethany Immigration Services. He has consistently generated between $20,000 and $25,000 each year for the past three years without even being asked. Javier's clients, who deeply appreciate his friendship and trust his recommendations, willingly contribute to the cause he passionately champions, and Javier is more than happy to make the connection in order to welcome people to our community and making sure they can stay.

OUTSTANDING YOUTH: Julissa Espinoza Saenz

Nominated by: Danelle Hicks, Pre-Collegiate Program Summit High School

Julissa Espinoza Saenz is a truly exceptional youth, making an enduring impact on both Summit High School (SHS) and our community. Julissa's passion to volunteer and make a difference is evident in her tireless efforts, spanning from trail maintenance to community dinners and anti-vaping campaigns. Her influence extends beyond her own contributions, as she actively encourages younger students, peers, and her little brother to embrace the spirit of giving back. Her fearless advocacy for positive change, coupled with her bilingual skills, makes Julissa an indispensable resource in enhancing inclusivity and accessibility for so many. Her remarkable contributions have touched countless lives and sparked a ripple effect of kindness and compassion that has spread throughout her peers and the community.

DAVID OLBRIGHT OUTSTANDING YOUTH MENTOR: Ian McCluskie

Nominated by: Dave Miller and the Ramey family- Donovan, Mason, and Kim

Ian McCluskie is an extraordinary individual whose ability to ignite a love for science and the outdoors has left an indelible mark on countless youth, parents, and co-workers. Ian's enduring kindness and dedication have helped to shape the Keystone Science School’s impact and programming. Over his eight years at the Science School, Ian has demonstrated his multifaceted talents. Yet what truly distinguishes him is his unwavering commitment to the organization's mission, his advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and his focus on the well-being of children campers and Science School staff. Ian is willing to take students under his wing, even after their experience at science camp, and he has many times served as a mentor for students beyond their experience at the science school. His enduring relationships make Ian McCluskie an outstanding youth mentor whose influence will continue to shape young minds and nurture a love for learning.

SPIRIT OF THE SUMMIT: Dr. Don Parsons

Nominated by: Susan Robertson, Summit Community Care Clinic

Few people have the breadth and length of devotion that Dr. Don Parsons has provided to this community and so many causes throughout his lifetime. Dr. Parsons, a former surgeon and a dedicated volunteer, leaves behind a legacy of selfless service and community engagement to so many throughout the County. His passion and vocal voice for those who have no voice is legendary in Summit County. Always the outspoken and diplomatic advocate, Don’s extensive involvement with organizations like Summit Community Care Clinic, Rotary Club of Summit County, and numerous other community boards demonstrated his commitment to helping others and the betterment of the community. Dr. Parsons was a leader and a mentor, advocating for good health for all, clean indoor air, public health, and the rights of the underprivileged. His compassion, inclusivity, and dedication to the well-being of all community members truly embody the true Spirit of Summit County.