In celebration of Women’s History Month, Nevada County Supervisors honored three women leaders on Friday with awards.
Pat Leach, Diana Gamzon, and Mackenzie Rist received their awards from Supervisors Sue Hoek, Heidi Hall, and Lisa Swarthout at a ceremony at the LOVE Building in Grass Valley.
“We have incredible women in our community who have helped shape Nevada County to be the great place it is,” said Supervisor Swarthout, who kicked off the awards. “The three women honored here today for their work and dedication have made Nevada County a better place for us all."
Pat Leach: Community Trailblazer Award
Supervisor Sue Hoek presented Pat Leach with the Community Trailblazer Award for an individual who exemplifies leadership, innovation, and pioneering efforts in our community. Leach has lived on the San Juan Ridge for over 25 years and has helped with many community efforts. A former corporate secretary for her family’s business, RCD Engineering, she has been involved with the North San Juan Fire Auxiliary and Fire Board and assisted 13 neighborhoods in her fire district in applying for recognition from the Firewise Program, which helps communities reduce the risk of wildfire. Today, thanks to Leach’s dedication and determination, Nevada County has the most Firewise communities in the state.
“I was unaware one could be recognized for following a passion that provides so much appreciation from neighbors, and comradery of the shared goal of wildfire resiliency,” Leach said. “Our county’s neighbors impress and energize me, and for that I am very grateful.”
Diana Gamzon: EmpowerHer Leadership Award
Supervisor Heidi Hall presented Diana Gamzon with the EmpowerHer Leadership Award, which honors outstanding women who exhibit exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication in empowering others. Gamzon is co-founder and executive director of the Nevada County Cannabis Alliance, arguably the most impactful community organization of the last decade. Under her leadership, Gamzon established the alliance as a well-run community group, empowered her clients by creating a Board and work groups, and celebrated their successes. Her positive leadership style, grace under pressure, ability to absorb facts and new ideas, and dedication to innovation are hallmarks of an excellent leader. Today, the alliance represents over 250 cannabis farmers and business owners. Gamzon's work is a model of taking a contentious issue and bringing people together to create a program, resulting in policy change to serve the community better.
“I am proud of the work our organization has done to advocate for fair regulations and provide resources and mentorship while helping to empower local entrepreneurs,” Gamzon said. “This award is a testament to the collective dedication and passion of everyone involved in this journey – from advocates, to patients and small business owners. Together, we are reshaping perceptions, creating jobs, and driving positive change.”
Next-Gen Leadership Award: Mackenzie Rist
Supervisor Lisa Swarthout presented Mackenzie Rist with the Next-Gen Leadership Award, which acknowledges young, emerging leaders who demonstrate exceptional achievements, innovation, and promise. Rist is chair and co-founder of the newly formed Nevada County Youth Commission. She is instrumental in coordinating with the commission’s subcommittee chairs to connect with county resources, such as local policy experts, that will broaden their perspective on important issues. She serves as Associated Student Body treasurer and Site Council chair at Nevada Union High School, where she coordinates and oversees the school budget, important safety plans, and special events.
“As not only a Youth Commission founder but now the first-ever Youth Commission chair, I am very honored to occupy this role. Being able to be a part of change within the community is a very impactful thing to experience,” said Rist. “The Youth Commission is an important new point of view within the county, and it has allowed many youth from lots of different backgrounds to come together and begin working towards change by connecting resources to need. By getting this award, I feel as though the whole commission is because we’ve all put aside many things in order to advocate for youth in our community.”
