From dedicated public servants to innovative business partners, South Salt Lake Mayor Cherie Wood recognized the groups and individuals who have impacted the city during the last year. At the State of the City event in March, Wood honored those who went above and beyond to provide opportunities, programs and services to city residents. 

“While previous State of the City addresses have focused on the future, this year, I want to focus on the now,” Wood said. “This is a year of activating the departments and social infrastructure we’ve created over the last 15 years to support people today because when the world is unpredictable, South Salt Lake needs to be a place of refuge, a community of solutions and a city of kindness.”

Michael and Jennifer Dustin were recognized as the Legacy Family of the Year, along with their children Aaron, Abby, Daniel and Emily, who have all served on the SSL Youth City Council and Youth County Council. 

Citizen of the Year was presented to Leslie Jones for her work with city events like the Fourth of July parade, Mural Fest and Craftoberfest. 

“Leslie and her husband Irvin sought out a community where they could get involved. They found South Salt Lake and quickly planted roots. Over the years, she found a great love for the city,” Wood said. “She is a true community leader and we honor her dedication and contributions to South Salt Lake over the years.”

Jaeleigh Mecham, the STEAM specialist at Moss Elementary, was given the Teacher of the Year award for her work with innovative programs including coaching the Lego League. She also coordinated a STEAM family event to bring the community together for hands-on activities. 

Two women shared the Young Leaders of the Year recognition. Najma Osman and Mahnaz Mahmoodi were honored for demonstrating leadership and encouraging girls to be involved in the SheTech program at the Utah International Charter School.

“These two young leaders have helped ensure the success of SheTech by attracting fellow student participants and creating excitement for the program,” said Wood.

Dry Creek Charity was named Legacy Partner for its support of Promise SSL since 2012. The organization has supported soccer programs, after-school programs and
specialty clubs.

The Promise SSL Partner of the Year is the Mark and Kathie Miller Foundation for its six-week Math Boost program at Granite Park Junior High, helping seventh-grade students. Individuals in the program gained 1-3 grade levels of math competency during the span of three weeks. 

“This reminds me what’s possible when you have an amazing leader and a bunch of incredible community members come together to make truly incredible things happen,” said United Way of Salt Lake CEO Bill Crim. “When Mark and Kathie think about being involved, they think about literally every kid they can connect with.”

The Shelter the Homeless Executive Committee was named Community Advocate for serving residents experiencing homelessness. Shelter the Homeless Executive Director Laurie Hopkins and committee members Harris Simmons, Josh Romney and Jon Lear were recognized for their commitment to the issue.

Promise SSL Innovation Partner, SoFi, was honored for its partnership with the Promise SSL Community Opportunity Center which funds programs to help residents overcome barriers to growth. 

Cole Martin was given the first JustServe Volunteer of the Year award for his service with the Best Buy Teen Tech Center, building a music program from the ground up. 

“Cole has an innate ability to draw the most reserved teens out of their shell with music and he is a trusted adult mentor in the lives of many students,” Wood said. “He created a welcoming environment for all teens to feel free to participate, create and be themselves.”

This year’s SSL Social Impact Champion is Mickaela Aliifua, a Promise Pathways coordinator who helps high school graduates navigate career and educational opportunities. She also established a Native Student Club for Indigenous students. 

Salt Lake County Granite Branch Manager Kim Welch was named Community Champion for her efforts to make the library a city hub. This year’s Council Champion is Sharla Bynum who has served on the SSL City Council since 2014. 

Square Kitchen Eatery was named Best Lunch Spot, TreeUtah was recognized with the Community Builder award and Sunbelt Rentals was presented as Best Local Art Advocate for its help with Mural Fest.

This year’s Employee of the Year is Abby Sherlock, SSL’s HR specialist. Sherlock is known for her charismatic personality, creativity and relationship-building skills.

“When tasked with a project, Abby is always ready to take charge,” Wood said. “She thinks of everything, she’s always ready to take charge and offer up all the creativity that she has.” λ