Greater Palm Springs Pride announces Pride Honors Award recipients

Greater Palm Springs Pride on Monday announced the recipients of the annual Pride Honors Awards. 

The awards are presented by Silvercrest and recognize contributions to the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. The honors will be presented during an Oct. 2 reception at the Hilton Palm Springs.

The 2024 honorees are examples of “dedication, leadership and advocacy in creating a more inclusive and equitable world … (who) have made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals,” according to Greater Palm Springs Pride. 

“We are honored to recognize these extraordinary individuals for their unwavering commitment to our community,” Ron deHarte, the organization’s president and CEO, said in a statement. “Their work inspires us all to strive for a future where everyone can live authentically and without fear.”

The 2024 Pride Honors Award recipients are:

— Spirit of Pride Award: John Taylor 

— Spirit of Stonewall Business of Pride Awards: Shannon Anderson;

— Spirit of Stonewall Volunteer of the Year: DeeAnn Hopings;

— Spirit of Stonewall Advocate of the Year: DAP Health;

— Spirit of Stonewall Community Leadership: Jasmine Sullivan Waits;

— Spirit of Stonewall Arts & Culture Award: Marconi Calindas-Cafege; and

— Spirit of Stonewall Friend of Pride: Andrew and Cathy Mills

The Pride Honors Awards ceremony is organized by the Coachella Valley Firebirds, Desert Care Network and Hilton Palm Springs that “promises to be a night of inspiration and celebration, bringing together LGBTQ+ activists, allies, and supporters from all walks of life,” organizers said.

Honorees

Spirit of Pride Award: John Taylor

A longtime radio personality, Taylor is honored for his contributions to the LGBTQ+ community through his morning show on KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 FM in Palm Springs. 

“The show highlights the community’s positive aspects and shines a spotlight on its members,” according to Greater Palms Springs Pride. “With a decades-old radio career, Taylor has continually captivated audiences with his infectious energy, wit, and genuine connection with listeners.”

Spirit of Stonewall Business of Pride Award: Shannon Anderson

The hospitality industry veteran Anderson is receiving the award for supporting the LGBTQ+ community through her work at the Hilton Palm Springs. 

“The award recognizes individuals making a difference in advancing equality in the business world,” according to event organizers. “Her dedication to attracting and hosting LGBTQ+ events and building partnerships has helped solidify Palm Springs’ reputation as an inclusive destination.” Anderson has resided in the Coachella Valley since 1991.

Spirit of Stonewall Volunteer of the Year: DeeAnn Hopings

As Volunteer of the Year for her extensive volunteer work within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, Hopings earned a Pride Honors Award. 

Now a retired engineer who had an international career, Hopings focuses on civic engagement and social causes with roles in human rights campaigns, arts commissions and other organizations that demonstrate her “solid commitment to improving the lives of the LGBTQ+ community,” according to GPSP. Currently, she serves as the community liaison officer for Great Autos, vice chair of Desert Stonewall Democrats and a docent at the Palm Springs Air Museum.

Spirit of Stonewall Advocate of the Year: DAP Health

The health care provider is being honored for its decades-long commitment to serving to the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, according to GPSP. 

“DAP Health has remained committed to the principles of its volunteer founders, who created the organization in 1984 in support of those affected by HIV/AIDS at the dawn of the epidemic,” event organizers said. “With a focus on cultural competence and patient-centered care, the organization has expanded its reach across Southern California, offering various programs and support.”

Spirit of Stonewall Community Leadership Award: Jasmine Sullivan Waits

The 2024 recipient of the leadership award was born and raised in the Coachella Valley. Sullivan Waits has managed Palm Springs park, recreation and special events for 19 years. 

“We celebrate her dedication, innovation, and embodiment of leadership that drives both personal success and the success of those around her,” GPSP said in a statement. “Jasmine is committed to creating inclusive and diverse community spaces. Her work on family-friendly events and initiatives has contributed significantly to the overall quality of life in Palm Springs.”

Spirit of Stonewall Arts & Culture Award: Marconi Calindas-Cafege

A Palm Springs-based visual artist who addresses social issues that include LGBTQ+ rights, Calindas-Cafege’s “vibrant and impactful art has been showcased in numerous national and international exhibitions and public art projects, significantly contributing to the arts and culture scene,” according to GPSP. 

Spirit of Stonewall Friend of Pride: Andrew and Cathy Mills

The Mills are receiving the award “for their steadfast support of the LGBTQ community and commitment to social justice,” GPSP said. “Together, they attend countless charity events, have a visible presence at community programs, and demonstrate leadership as true allies who support the LGBTQ community.” 

Andrew Mills has been Palm Springs police chief for three of his 10 years with the department. 

“College sweethearts and married for nearly 43 years, they work as a team to build community through positive interaction and constant vigilance,” according to GPSP. “As Friends of Pride, they support and make a positive impact on the LGBTQ community every day.”

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