Awards Recognize Years of Service, Leadership, and Commitment to Public Health

Coachella Valley, CA: The Coachella Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District is proud to announce that District staff and Board Trustee were awarded at the annual Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California (MVCAC) Conference. These awards acknowledge exceptional service, leadership, innovation, and sustained contributions to mosquito and vector control.

Doug Walker, Trustee of the Board, received the MVCAC Service with Distinction Award. Trustee Walker was recognized for his 18 years of dedicated service to the District and to MVCAC through various leadership roles. His long-standing commitment to public service and his contributions at both the local and state levels have helped advance science-based, environmentally responsible mosquito and vector control programs that protect public health throughout California.

Arturo Gutierrez, Laboratory Assistant with the District for more than 30 years, received the MVCAC Service with Distinction Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to fulfilling the mission of the Association through exceptional service. Recipients demonstrate distinction in the field of mosquito and vector control and have made meaningful contributions to their local communities. Mr. Gutierrez was honored for his long-standing commitment to laboratory excellence, disease surveillance, and his vital role in supporting the District’s mission of protecting public health.

In addition to these service awards, Diana Ramirez-Esparza, Laboratory Assistant, earned second place in the William E. Walton Poster Competition. Mrs. Ramirez-Esparza was recognized for her poster on modifying mosquito traps to utilize lithium-ion battery packs, an innovation that highlights operational efficiency, adaptability, and applied problem-solving within mosquito surveillance programs.

“These recognitions reflect the depth of experience, innovation, and professionalism within our organization,” said Jeremy Wittie the District’s General Manager. “Doug Walker, Arturo Gutierrez, and Diana Ramirez-Esparza exemplify the dedication and forward-thinking approach that support our mission of protecting public health and improving the quality of life in the Coachella Valley.”

The Coachella Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District congratulates all award recipients and thanks them for their continued service, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Their achievements underscore the District’s role as a leader in mosquito and vector control and its ongoing dedication to safeguarding public health.

For more information about the Coachella Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District and its programs, please visit www.cvmosquito.org or contact the District at 760-342-8287.

Trustee Doug Walker

Arturo Gutierrez

Diana Ramirez-Esparza