The Clinton County Community Champions (C4) Awards began in 2020 to honor service and leadership during the pandemic. The event began as a virtual ceremony and has since expanded to be held at the Murphy Theatre. This year, there were 119 nominations for 75 individuals in 7 categories. The winners are chosen based on their commitment to community through a special project or ongoing activities, unselfish leadership and service to others, and an inspiration to others. They are selected by a panel of judges from the Board of the Chamber of Commerce and the Board of the Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Jonathan McKay, Wilmington Transit System (City of Wilmington)
Nominated for: Govt./Public Service
Nominated by: Anonymous
Jonathan’s nominator(s) stated:
“In a short time, Jonathan has revitalized the Wilmington Transit System (WTS)…When Jonathan assumed leadership of WTS, the system faced significant challenges… Undeterred, he spearheaded efforts to bring the system back into compliance [and] restored public trust in the system. Jonathan’s creativity and determination are further evident in his efforts to modernize and expand the WTS fleet…One of Jonathan’s most impactful initiatives in 2024 was offering "Free Rides to the Polls", ensuring transportation was not a barrier to voting…He has emphasized the importance of building trust and meeting the diverse needs of Wilmington residents, ensuring that WTS is a vital part of the city’s infrastructure. His work serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating how unselfish leadership, creativity, and hard work can address challenges and create meaningful change…”
“Jonathan McKay exemplifies exceptional leadership, commitment, and hard work in his role…By addressing deficiencies, implementing corrective actions, and fostering accountability within the department, Jonathan showcased his ability to inspire and unite his team…Under his leadership, the transit team has been nearly fully staffed with skilled and safe drivers, dispatchers, and mechanics…He has also single handily worked with the Emergency Management Agency to ensure the WTS fleet is accessible should a mass evacuation be necessary for a local nursing home, business or school. Jonathan’s commitment to safety and accessibility is central to his mission. He ensures that each passenger reaches their destination safely, whether it’s a job, a doctor’s appointment, or a grocery store…By championing the mission of WTS, Jonathan has solidified the system’s importance as a lifeline for the community,”
Josh Gibson, Wilmington Police Department
Nominated for: Govt./Public Service
Nominated by: Anonymous
Josh’s nominator(s) stated:
“Sgt. Josh Gibson is an outstanding sergeant that serves Wilmington with dignity, respect, and has a high sense of morals. Sgt. Gibson not only serves his community in the capacity of being a Law Enforcement Officer, he also is very active in Our Father's Kitchen, donating multiple hours to ensuring our homeless population is best served. He is an advocate for the homeless population, constantly trying to assist in keeping them safe and warm on and off duty. He is a role model to Officers by showing that the homeless populations deserve respect and always reminds his fellow officers of such. Sgt Gibson deserves this award because he never expects recognition, he just does it out of the goodness of his heart. He is a great man, sergeant, and man of God. He shows Christ like qualities on and off the clock.”
Pam Fizer
Nominated for: Govt./Public Service, Non-Profit
Nominated by: Sarah Fizer
Pam’s nominator(s) stated:
“My mom retired at the end of August after 32 years at Clinton County Children Services. During those years, she participated in many of the activities the agency assisted in outside of work for the community, including Shop with a Cop, Ho Ho Shop, and helping hold a monthly kinship support group/dinner for families to name just a few. Most of these events were held in the evenings or on the weekends on her own time and even using her own money when necessary. Many times, she volunteered her husband (now deceased) and girls to help as well! About 15 years ago she started volunteering at the PAWs animal shelter. Her passion has always been helping children and animals. Over the last several years, she has trapped and spayed quite a few stray cats that show up at her home out of the kindness of her heart and her love for animals. She has put her heart in her community, while balancing raising a family and being an amazing mom and wife. Since retirement, she has increased her volunteer work at PAWs, and also has some other volunteer plans in the pipeline for next year. Pam is a great example of a dedicated Clinton County employee who has and continues to give back to her community.”