A department celebration was held Tuesday, April 11, to recognize the selected regional unsung public health heroes. NMSU students in PHLS 375 Foundations of Health Education class coordinated the event. Mesilla Valley Community of Hope received the Community Organization Public Health Hero Award. Jamie Michael, director of the Doña Ana County Health and Human Services Department, received the Community Leader Public Health Hero Award. Congratulations everyone!

The Community Organization award is given to an organization in our county that has contributed to our community by providing excellent services and integrating the value of health into the community. The Community Leader award is given to an individual in our county who has provided distinguished service to our community and made significant contributions as a leader in the development of a healthier community.