Scottsdale Leadership Honors Four Community Leaders

Scottsdale Leadership has announced the recipients of its 2026 Spirit of Community Leadership Awards, recognizing four individuals whose dedication and leadership are helping strengthen the community. This year’s honorees include Todd LaPorte, Jane Blacker, Aashni Sahai and Chelo Allen, each recognized for their contributions through professional leadership, volunteerism and service.

The 2026 Drinkwater Leadership Award was presented to Todd LaPorte, CEO of HonorHealth, for his leadership of the nonprofit healthcare system through organizational expansion. LaPorte’s involvement includes serving as board chair of the Health System Alliance of Arizona and serving on the board of Experience Scottsdale. He has also chaired organizations including Big Brothers Big Sisters and Scottsdale Aquatic Club. In addition to supporting public health initiatives such as bringing the Blue Zones well-being project to Scottsdale, LaPorte has championed economic development, education and youth mentorship while supporting organizations such as Junior Achievement. The award is sponsored by A1 Garage Door Service.

Jane Blacker received the 2026 Hodges Alumni Achievement Award for more than two decades of community involvement. A member of Scottsdale Leadership Class 19 and former board president, Blacker has supported organizations including the Boys & Girls Club, Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce, Scottsdale YMCA, The Women’s Collective and Scottsdale Leadership. Known for her commitment to fundraising and volunteerism, she has consistently contributed her time, resources and leadership to help organizations grow and serve.

The 2026 Jenkins Youth Leadership Award went to Aashni Sahai, a senior at Saguaro High School who combines academic achievement with a passion for creating opportunities for other young people. Sahai co-founded Let’s Get the Ball Rolling, a STEAM education nonprofit that received a competitive $5,000 Dragon Kim Foundation grant. She also leads Sisters in STEM, organizing science events that have reached more than 200 children. The award is sponsored by Vitalant.

Chelo Allen was named the 2026 Trailblazer Award recipient for her work strengthening South Scottsdale and creating opportunities for neighborhood connection. Through her involvement with the Yaqui Penjamo Board, Allen recognized the need for renewed engagement at Vista del Camino and worked with the City of Scottsdale to restore recreation programming. Her efforts helped establish Friday Family Fun nights, bringing neighbors together through community activities. The award is sponsored by The Women’s Collective.

“Herb Drinkwater, Frank Hodges, Bill Jenkins, and Frances Young would be so proud to see their legacy continued by awarding these community members for the passion, commitment, and leadership they have exhibited through the years and will continue to exhibit in the future,” Executive Director Lee Ann Witt said. “It is our privilege to honor these elite leaders, both past and present.”

The awards reflect the legacy of four individuals whose contributions helped shape Scottsdale and its community. The Drinkwater Community Leadership Award honors former Scottsdale Mayor and City Council member Herb Drinkwater, who served the city for more than 25 years and was known for introducing others to opportunities to become involved in the community.

The Hodges Alumni Achievement Award recognizes Scottsdale Leadership alumni who demonstrate the dedication to community service exemplified by Frank Hodges, a member of Class 1 and former assistant fire chief with Rural Metro. The award recognizes individuals whose commitment to Scottsdale reflects Hodges’ lasting legacy of service. Both awards emphasize service and involvement, including demonstrated leadership, consistent participation in initiatives and humanitarian values that promote inclusivity and support people from diverse backgrounds.

The Frances Young Trailblazer Award recognizes emerging leaders who may not hold formal positions but demonstrate initiative, collaboration and a commitment to neighborhood improvement. Young was a longtime advocate for minority rights, a co-founder of Scottsdale Community Partners and a champion of initiatives including the Vista del Camino Community Center.

The Jenkins Youth Leadership Award honors William C. (Bill) Jenkins, who taught at Scottsdale High School for 29 years before serving as Scottsdale mayor from 1974 to 1980. During his time as an educator, Jenkins was dedicated to his students and student government. As mayor, he helped guide Scottsdale through a period of growth and a recession while advancing projects including the first Scottsdale Senior Center, City Hall, Vista del Camino and the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt.

Through its annual awards, Scottsdale Leadership continues to recognize individuals whose service and commitment help build a stronger, more connected community. For more behind this Frontdoor, visit scottsdaleleadership.org.