The purpose of the Essential Piece Awards is to recognize members in the community who have made a significant impact in West Valley City. Recipients come from a variety of different sectors including neighborhoods, faith groups, businesses, staff, My Hometown, City committees, education, and community partners.
Reverend Vinnetta Golphin-Wilkerson
Reverend Vinnetta Golphin-Wilkerson, lovingly known in the community as 'Pastor V', has been serving the West Valley City community since 2011, when she moved from Atlanta to Salt Lake City to lead the congregation of Granger Community Christian Church. Since then, she has been a true leader for change, compassion, and advocacy. So many community members have kind words for Reverend Vinnetta as she ends her tenure at Granger Community. We at the City admire and appreciate the work she has diligently done over the past 13 years!
Kevin Nguyen
Kevin Nguyen, a resident of West Valley City, born and raised, is an advocate for the health and well-being of the residents in the city. Kevin is passionate about building connected communities through his work in public health; this passion shines through his actions. Kevin was instrumental in the creation of the Healthy West Valley Coalition in 2018. This grassroots organization began with just a few key community leaders, Kevin included, and has blossomed into a successful and flourishing city-resident committee. Residents like Kevin truly exemplify the quality of people we have here in WVC. We are lucky to have individuals who work to show the pride and progress possible in West Valley City!
Margaret Peterson
Margaret Peterson has been an integral part of the West Valley City community for several decades, leaving an indelible mark through her dedicated service. From 1990 to 2008, Margaret served as a council member, laying the foundation for her enduring legacy. During her tenure, she spearheaded the creation of the non-profit organization, Community Education Partnership (CEP) of West Valley City, which has since become a beacon of support for students in after-school programs within the city boundaries. As the program marks its 24th year of success, it has served over 15,000 students. Through her efforts, both the community and its students have reaped the invaluable benefits of her commitment to excellence.
ASEZ STAR Group
ASEZ WAO, a dynamic young adult volunteer group affiliated with the World Mission Society Church of God, fervently commits to enhancing their community's environmental welfare. Their acronym ASEZ encapsulates their mission: "Save the Earth from A to Z!" For several years, they have spearheaded various initiatives, notably litter clean-ups in West Valley City. As our city strives to bolster its greenery, it is the unwavering dedication and zeal of groups like ASEZ that catalyze meaningful change.
Lynette Nelson
For the past six years, Lynette Nelson has been the driving force behind the Blue Haven Neighborhood Watch, serving as its dedicated chairperson. Under her leadership, Blue Haven has flourished into a tight-knit, well-informed, and safety-conscious community. Lynette's journey with the Neighborhood Watch began with a vision to create a safer, more connected neighborhood. Her commitment to fostering community spirit is evident in her numerous initiatives. Lynette's unwavering dedication and proactive approach have transformed Blue Haven into a model of community engagement and safety. Her work stands as a testament to the positive impact that one committed individual can have on their neighborhood.
WestFest Committee
While the allure of WestFest is evident in its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings, what often goes unnoticed is the immense effort behind the scenes that ensures its continued success. The festival operates under the umbrella of West Valley City, but its orchestration is the result of detailed planning and hard work by a dedicated committee. This group of ten passionate residents, alongside city staff members, devotes countless hours to coordinate every aspect of the festival. The commitment and enthusiasm of the WestFest Committee are the true driving forces behind the festival's enduring legacy.
Detective Mike Millet
Detective Millet supports the safety and wellbeing of the youth in our community through the Safe Routes to School Program. He oversees more than 60 crossing guards, managing more than 80 safety posts at more than 25 schools. Many of these schools participate in the Safety Patrol program, where older students receive training to assist in maintaining safety for both students and parents during high-traffic times. This is a significant initiative that extends far beyond a simple recognition. Detective Millet’s contributions to pedestrian safety and his coordination of various safety initiatives demonstrate a clear dedication to making his community safer. His tireless efforts, both in leadership and on the ground, make him a true "essential piece" in the realm of public safety.
Noemi Hernandez-Balcazar
West Valley City resident Noemi Hernandez-Balcazar has worked tirelessly in support of creating opportunities for students in our community. As an award-winning artist and arts educator, Noemi serves as the Fine Arts Specialist for Granite School District. In 2017 she won the Governor’s Award for Education Leadership in the Arts, and in 2022 she won the Sorenson Legacy Award for Exemplary Arts Education Administration, in addition to many other local and statewide awards over the years. We enjoy the vibrancy of cultural traditions that Noemi brings to the city and appreciate her dedication to collaboration and excellence in the arts. We're proud to have Noemi in our community!
Tiffine Dalton
Tiffine Dalton’s dedication to the Clean and Beautiful Committee has played a vital role in enhancing our city. From organizing cleanup projects to managing the annual Yard Awards, her efforts have brought pride and vibrancy to our neighborhoods. Additionally, her contributions to the West Fest Committee in previous years helped ensure the success of one of West Valley City’s most cherished events. Thank you, Tiffine, for your passion, commitment, and service to West Valley City! Your impact is truly appreciated.
Jim and Kayla Phillips
Jim and Kayla’s commitment to West Valley City and their remarkable efforts in the MyHometown program have made a profound difference in the lives of many. Their work in establishing and supporting the Interfaith Council has fostered a spirit of collaboration among church groups across the city. Through their leadership, the council has become a meaningful space for connection, cooperation, and shared purpose, strengthening the bonds within our community. Their vision and dedication have not only improved the quality of life in West Valley City but have also reminded us all of the power of unity and service.