Gabby Paez Love recognized as North Coastal Region's Public Health Champion

The Public Health Champions Awards Ceremony took place on April 12, 2025, in San Diego City, honoring individuals and organizations dedicated to improving community health. The event highlighted the achievements of local leaders and initiatives that have made significant impacts in their respective regions.

The ceremony began with the recognition of Gabby Paez Love, a first-generation Mexican American and daughter of migrant farm workers. Gabby, who has over 29 years of experience working with vulnerable communities, was awarded the North Coastal Region's Public Health Champion Award. She is currently employed at MiraCosta College, where she focuses on school relations and diversity outreach. Gabby is committed to helping marginalized communities access higher education and resources, serving on multiple boards to advocate for the Latinx community's representation and well-being.

Following Gabby's recognition, the North Inland Region's Public Health Champion Award was presented to Backcountry Communities Thriving (BCT), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families and individuals in rural areas like Julian. BCT addresses various community challenges by partnering with organizations to provide essential services, including educational opportunities on health issues and support for the senior population. They also offer scholarships for high school seniors and financial assistance for local athletic teams.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Liz Hernandez, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in enhancing public health across San Diego County. The event celebrated the dedication of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to improve the quality of life for their communities.