UNA Nonprofit Leader Awards

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.

2025 UNA Leader Award Nominations are Open!

2025 Outstanding Nonprofit Leader Award

To honor nonprofit leaders who go above and beyond to serve their organizations and communities, UNA celebrates two Outstanding Nonprofit Leaders every year. Our view of leadership is not defined by title or designation, age, authority, or any other qualifier. Instead, it is about the individuals who not only persevere in the face of obstacles, but also engage and inspire the people around them, motivating others to dig deeper and work harder to get results. Regardless of their role, these individuals have made a lasting and positive impact on their organization and in the community. Their passion is contagious, and their results are impressive.

Nominations are open through June 30, 2025.
Outstanding Nonprofit Leader Award Nominees must be affiliated with UNA Member organizations.

2025 UNA Outstanding Nonprofit Leader Nomination

2025 Hall of Fame Spotlight Recognition

Looking for a way to celebrate the outstanding work and contributions of your organization's staff members? Celebrate those amazing individuals who go above and beyond, day in and day out, to make a difference in your community with recognition in the UNA Hall of Fame. The UNA Hall of Fame honors those hardworking nonprofit employees who have made a lasting impact on your team, your organization, and your mission. Whether it's their exceptional work ethic, their positive attitude, or their unwavering dedication, this is your opportunity to recognize those who embody the values of your organization. All submissions will be honored—this is not a selective award.

Nominations are open through August 8, 2025.
Hall of Fame Nominees must be affiliated with UNA Member organizations

2025 UNA Hall of Fame Submission

2024 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 2024 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.

Celeste Edmunds

Executive Director, The Christmas Box International

As the Executive Director of The Christmas Box International, Celeste leads the organization's mission to prevent child abuse and protect vulnerable children by fostering a culture of diversity, inclusion, and unconditional love. Under her compassionate leadership, Celeste has expanded the organization’s reach by establishing innovative partnerships and strengthening its donor base. With a deep understanding of the trauma these children face, she tirelessly advocates for creating a nurturing, stable environment in the shelters—where love, comfort, and security are always prioritized.

Watch Celeste's Video

Jacob Crane

Executive Director, Cultural Fire Events

Jacob Crane is the Executive Director of Cultural Fire Events, an Indigenous-led nonprofit supporting Native American culture, community, and events in the Southwest. With a belief that Indigenous people thrive when they are culturally connected, his organization hosts powwows, dance performances, and speeches across the state. His work has earned formal recognition from Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland.

Watch Jacob's Video

2024 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.