Mackay Among WESTMARC Best of the West 2025 Honoreeshttps://www.investinphoenix.com/news/65Mackay Among WESTMARC Best of the West 2025 Honorees<div class="ExternalClassC645C59B14184DC9B5A96CACB4B08A86"><p>​GLENDALE, Ariz. - Christine Mackay, the former Director of the City of Phoenix Community and Economic Development Department, was honored with WESTMARC's (Western Maricopa Coalition) West Valley Regional Advancement Award during the 33rd Annual Best of the West Awards Dinner on Oct. 23 at Desert Diamond Arena.<br></p><p> Mackay, who retired earlier this month after 11 years with the City of Phoenix ​and is now the President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), was recognized for her instrumental work in strengthening the West Valley's position for economic growth. Her efforts include the leadership behind attracting TSMC to North Phoenix, and bringing other transformative projects to the region.</p><p>In addition to Mackay's award, the WESTMARC Board of Directors recognized two other individuals whose leadership and dedication continue to shape the future of the West Valley:</p><ul><li><strong>West Valley Inspiration in Leadership Award:</strong> Charley Freericks, President, Howard Hughes-Teravalis<br><em>Recognizing extraordinary leadership that serves as an inspiration to others across the region.<br><br></em></li><li><strong>35th Anniversary Milestone - Pinnacle of Dedication Award:</strong> Herman Orcutt, Founding Leader of WESTMARC<br><em>Recognized for his foundational contributions and lifelong advocacy for the West Valley's growth and success.</em></li></ul><p>Also presented during the dinner was the Best of the West Awards in the categories of Economic Engine, Emerging Leader, Education & Workforce Development, Innovation, and Quality of Life Enhancement.<br></p><p><strong>2025 Best of the West Award Winners:</strong><br></p><ul><li><strong>Economic Engine:</strong> Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC)<br><br></li><li><strong>Emerging Leader:</strong> Gabriel Gamino Guerrero<br><br></li><li><strong>Excellence in Education & Workforce Development:</strong> Agua Fria Union High School District - Academies of the Southwest Valley<br><br></li><li><strong>Excellence in Innovation:</strong> Abrazo​ Health West Campus<br><br></li><li><strong>Quality of Life Enhancement:</strong> West Valley Mavericks Foundation<br></li></ul><p></p><p><b>About WESTMARC:<br></b>The Western Maricopa Coalition (WESTMARC) is a public-private partnership of the 15 communities, business community, and education sector in the West Valley. For 35 years, WESTMARC has focused on promoting responsible growth, quality of life, and economic development throughout the region - bringing leaders together to strengthen and advance the West Valley's position as a premier place to live, work, and thrive.</p><p><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br>Athena Sanchez, Communications Manager<br>City of Phoenix Community and Economic Development Department<br>Call/text: 602-621-0507<br><a href="mailto:Athena.Sanchez@phoenix.gov">Athena.Sanchez@phoenix.gov</a>​<br></p></div>Christine Mackayhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/News/Attachments/65/ChrisMackay_Landscape.jpg10/28/2025 12:14:17 AM

 

 

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