County Celebrates Local Leaders and 25 Years of Public Health Champions Awards
The County Health and Human Services Agency honored thirteen individuals and organizations for their commitment to improving community health, advancing wellness and helping communities thrive. The Live Well San Diego Public Health Champions awards ceremony, held April 10, marked a major milestone: 25 years of recognizing outstanding public health leadership.
The annual ceremony takes place during National Public Health Week, when communities across the country highlight the importance of building the foundation for healthier lives. Since the event began, the County has recognized 507 Public Health Champions whose work has helped shape a stronger, healthier region.
Dr. Sayone Thihalolipaven, the County’s Public Health Officer and Elizabeth Hernandez, PH.D., Deputy Chief Administrative Officer of the Health and Human Services Agency, led this year’s program.
The 2026 theme “Ready. Set. Action!” reflects the Live Well San Diego vision for a region that is healthy, safe and thriving. This year’s four areas of focus are:
- Government Partners and their critical role in making communities ready for better health
- Scientific Advancement that helps public health tackle today’s challenges and tomorrow’s unknowns
- Community Leadership because public health is strongest when it is rooted in community
- You Partner with Public Health and you help create it. Public health doesn’t just happen in clinics or government offices — it’s the everyday action that serves as the building blocks of healthier communities.
The Public Health Champions award categories included Director’s Awards; Public Health Services Awards for individuals and organizations; and Aging and Independence Services, Medical Care Services and Regional Awards.
The ceremony was designed to showcase the strength of local public/private partnerships in achieving the best health and wellness outcomes for everyone.
Director’s Award
Gloria E. Ciriza, Ed.D.
Dr. Ciriza has spent more than 30 years serving students across San Diego County and is now making history as the first woman and first Latina to serve as County Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Ciriza champions educational equity, leading efforts to reduce poverty through public education and expanding Community Schools where students can access food, healthcare, and mental health services on campus.
IWC Primary Care
IWC Primary Care delivers whole person care for patients to help them get well and stay well. Each month, Medical Director Dr. Suzanne Afflalo and the IWC team provide care to underserved communities by offering free health screenings, resources and education at the Jackie Robinson YMCA—meeting people where they are, regardless of income or insurance, and redefining what grassroots public health can achieve.
Public Health Services Awards
Theme: Encuentros Leadership
For over 20 years, Encuentros Leadership has uplifted thousands of Latino boys and young men in San Diego through mentorship, academic guidance, and leadership development. Its programs reduce equity gaps and inspire students to pursue college and community leadership.
Individual: Dr. Stefan A. Willging, M.D.
For more than 20 years, Dr. Willging has delivered relationship-based primary care in Hillcrest, ensuring patients receive care regardless of financial barriers. A seven-time San Diego Top Doctor, he is recognized for advancing accessible, preventive medicine and achieving long-term patient partnerships.
Individual – Oli LaFuente, B.S.
For nearly a decade, Oli LaFuente has advanced community wellness at the YMCA along with culturally responsive health promotion. As intervention coordinator for the Fe en Acción project, she recruits, trains, and supports promotoras who lead exercise and health programs at 27 sites across San Diego County.
Organization – Foundation for the Children of the Californias
For more than 30 years, the Foundation for the Children of the Californias has expanded access to pediatric care for underserved families across the San Diego Tijuana region. By supporting Hospital Infantil de las Californias and programs like P.A.P.I. and Puentes de Bienestar, the foundation helps families cover medical costs and provides free, culturally responsive mental health support to teens.
Department Awards
AIS – Pualani Vazquez
Pualani Vazquez leads trauma injury prevention and community outreach at Scripps Mercy Hospital, partnering with organizations across San Diego to reduce unintentional injuries through evidence based, trauma informed programs. She advances safety and independence for older adults through initiatives like A Matter of Balance and longstanding collaborations with Aging & Independence Services.
Regional Awards
South Region – Jovita Arellano
Jovita Arrellano drives collaboration and community impact across the South Region through her leadership with the Chula Vista Community Collaborative and the Chula Vista Elementary School District. She leads initiatives like the annual Day of the Child event to expand school-based services, strengthen partnerships, and uplift families.
Central Region – Grandma Lulu’s Table
Grandma LuLu’s Kitchen brings plant-based meals directly to communities across San Diego, serving thousands through its mobile breakfast program and free support for local schools and organizations. The nonprofit teaches families how to prepare affordable, healthy recipes at home as part of its promotion of long-term health, economic relief and sustainable eating.
East Region – Majdal: Arab Community Center of San Diego
The Majdal Arab Center of San Diego, founded in 2016 by a group of Arab and Arab American youth, serves as a cultural, educational, and community hub for refugees and immigrants. Its mission is symbolized by the name “Majdal” (watch tower) as it works to protect, serve, and empower Arab, Middle Eastern, and North African communities.
North Central – Promises2Kids
Promises2Kids supports more than 2,000 current and former foster youth each year, providing stability, mentoring, and resilience building programs across San Diego County. In 2024, youth from its Guardian Scholars program shared their lived experiences at the East Region Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Symposium, elevating kinship family voices and inspiring caregivers with their honesty and strength.
North Coastal – Nature Unplugged
Nature Unplugged empowers communities to build healthier relationships with technology by promoting mindfulness, outdoor connection, and mental wellbeing. Its annual Hike-AThon, hosted with Live Well San Diego and County Parks, inspires thousands each year to swap screen time for green time through community hikes, activity challenges and a growing digital campaign.
North Inland – Fallbrook Union High School District
Fallbrook Union High School District supports nearly 2,000 students across three high schools, serving as a trusted community hub that connects families with vital resources and services. Through strong partnerships, annual community events and dedicated staff the district is focused on reducing chronic absenteeism and helping students overcome barriers and stay engaged in school.