We Honor Ours (“WHO”) Awards are presented annually to UTLA/NEA members who have given exemplary service to UTLA/NEA – CTA and its membership. There are three award categories: Local, State, and Community Gold. 

Award recipients are determined by the UTLA/NEA “WHO” Committee based on UTLA/NEA member nominations.   

Nominations are open in these categories:

•  The “WHO” Local Award is for current (non-retired) UTLA/NEA members who have given outstanding service in support of UTLA/NEA and its members. Current BOD, Retirees, and WHO Committee members are not eligible for this award.
• The “WHO” State Award is for current (non-retired) UTLA/NEA members who have given outstanding service in support of UTLA/NEA and its members at the state or national levels of UTLA, CTA and NEA. 
• The UTLA/NEA Community Gold Award may be awarded to any person or organization whose leadership, actions, and support have demonstrated that the person or organization is a true friend  of public education, educators, or students and merits UTLA/NEA recognition of their accomplishments. 

2026 “WHO” Awards Winners

Local “WHO” Awards

• Rosalva Barajas
• Celenia Calderon
• Guadalupe Cardona
• Sayra Espinoza
• Wade Kyle
• Bryant Odega
• Emily Reyes

State “WHO” Awards

• Denisha Jordan

Gold Community Award

• CHIRLA