UNA Nonprofit Leader Awards

Be on the lookout for upcoming UNA Annual Conference information in early 2027!

Honoring Nonprofit Leaders in Utah

UNA's Nonprofit Leader Awards recognize the incredible individuals who devote their time and careers to the nonprofit sector. These leaders bring selflessness, dedication, and of course, unrivaled passion to caring for Utah's people, cultures, communities, animals, and environment.

Nominating someone for UNA's Outstanding Nonprofit Leader or submitting a Hall of Fame recognition is a public way to celebrate these amazing individuals. When you acknowledge their contributions to your organization, mission, and community, you help create a culture of appreciation and support.

Thank You to Our Title Sponsor:

2026 UNA Hall of Fame Spotlight Recognition

The UNA Hall of Fame honors those hardworking nonprofit employees who have made a lasting impact on their team, organization, and mission. Whether it's their exceptional work ethic, their positive attitude, or their unwavering dedication, this is an opportunity to recognize those who embody the values of their nominating organizations and make a difference to our community.

Learn More about the 2026 Honorees

2026 UNA Outstanding Nonprofit Leaders

Each year, the Conference Committee has the monumental task of selecting the recipients of the Nonprofit Leader Awards. This year was no different, as the committee reviewed incredible stories of leadership and perseverance, compassion and empathy, joy and creativity.

However, from these heartfelt nominations, two leaders truly stood out. As you learn about the 2025 UNA Outstanding Nonprofit Leaders, consider how their values and character are reflected in our community at large. These individuals represent our highest ideals, embodying our collective hope for change and our willingness to achieve it. They advance their missions through bold vision, bolstered by authenticity and genuine compassion.

2026_Conference_BreakoutSpeakerPhotos (1)

Kristy Chambers

CEO, Kids on the Move

Kristy Chambers is an exceptional nonprofit leader whose vision, resilience, and commitment to community impact have transformed organizations and improved the lives of countless individuals throughout Utah. Over more than two decades in the nonprofit sector, she has consistently led organizations through complex challenges while maintaining an unwavering focus on mission, sustainability, and service.

What truly sets Kristy apart is her ability to inspire those around her. She empowers staff to develop professionally, encourages creative problem-solving, and fosters a culture of accountability and excellence. Her passion for serving underserved populations is contagious, motivating others to work harder, think bigger, and pursue meaningful change. Beyond her own organization, she generously shares her expertise through board service, advocacy efforts, and mentorship, strengthening the nonprofit sector as a whole.

Watch Kristy's Video

Scott Weaver

President and CEO, Special Olympics Utah

Scott Weaver has led Special Olympics Utah through a period of extraordinary growth, innovation, and expanded impact. In just six years, Scott has doubled the organization’s operating budget, increasing SOUT’s capacity to serve athletes, families, schools, and communities across the state. Under his leadership, the number of sports offered has grown from 10 to 17, creating more year-round opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to compete, connect, and thrive.

What makes Scott extraordinary is that this growth has not come from ambition alone. It has come from steady, mission-driven leadership, persistence through limited resources and complex community needs, and a willingness to go beyond what is expected. Scott shows up across Utah and the Navajo Nation, listens to athletes and families, builds strong partnerships, and keeps the organization focused on dignity, access, and belonging. He has not only grown Special Olympics Utah as a nonprofit; he has expanded it as a movement for inclusion.

Watch Scott's Video