New Hanover County officials hosted the fourth annual Equity Awards Gala on Aug. 23.

The event recognized 11 individuals in New Hanover County for their work to increase and promote equity and diversity throughout the community.

Organized by the New Hanover County Office of Diversity and Equity in partnership with Cape Fear Latinos, the gala took place at Cape Fear Community College’s Union Station in downtown Wilmington.

“Each year, the nomination process helps us learn more about the amazing work taking place in New Hanover County to ensure equitable access to services and resources in our community,” said Chief Diversity Officer Linda Thompson in a news release. “This year’s group of honorees are the embodiment of what these awards are all about, as their tireless work has helped so many here at home. We are excited to recognize their efforts and bring awareness to what they are doing to help our residents.”

The following are the recipients and their awards:

• Santos Ruben Pagan, NHC Sheriff’s Deputy – Community Equity Award
• Maria Rodriguez, CFCC Program Director – Community Equity Award
• Jennie Jackson, Bank of America NC Market Executive – Business Equity Award
• Karla Johana Acosta-Castillo, Hoggard graduate/ECU student – Youth Equity Award
• Donterio Perkins, CFCC Education Diversity Success Director – Education Equity Award
• Emma Baltezore, One Christian Network – Faith-Based Equity Award
• Dr. Umar and Tiffany Bowers, Dawson Med Primary and Urgent Care – Health Equity Award
• Steven McCrossan, NourishNC – Non-Profit Equity Award
• Allen Quigley and Terri Everett, “Our Stories” – New Hanover County Diversity & Equity Champion Award