Douglas County and City of Omaha to host Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Aspire to Inspire Award Ceremony 

On Jan. 26, 2024, Douglas County and the City of Omaha will recognize employees with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Aspire to Inspire awards. One community member will also be honored at the event.

For several years, these awards have been presented to employees and community members who emulated Dr. King’s vision of diversity, inclusivity, and equality. A committee of County and City representatives reviewed nominations and selected the following award recipients:

Douglas County’s recipient is Marisa Hattab, Douglas County Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. Her nominator said, “Marisa has made many employees of Douglas County feel like they have a voice. She listens to employees feeling stuck or stagnant and gives them valuable tools to find ways to change it. She echoes Dr. King’s sentiments.” 

The City of Omaha’s recipient is Bridget Hadley, Economic Development Manager for the City Planning Department. Her nominator said, “I have only known Bridget for a few years, but in that time, she has been someone I find I can consistently look up to as an example of how to put one’s principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, unity, and diligence into their professional life. Bridget is super smart, patient, accepting of others, and passionate about her job and how it plays a role in creating a brighter future for Omaha and its diverse communities.”

The Community recipient is Itzel Lopez, CEO and Co-Founder of the Latino Economic Development Council. Her nominator said, “Itzel Lopez’s journey is nothing short of inspirational, marked by her unwavering dedication to community service and economic development. She has played a pivotal role in fostering opportunities for the Latino community. Her success is not just personal; it’s a testament to the transformative power of dedicated volunteerism and community engagement.”