Staff Reports | Community Updates
Scottsdale nonprofit Community Celebrating Diversity has named Sasha R. Simmons as its 2026 Diversity Champion.
Ms. Simmons will be recognized at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration event, which takes place from 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
Diversity Champions are individuals who exemplify the philosophy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and who have enriched the community by empowering others. Individuals can be nominated by anyone in the community. Eligible nominees must work, live or volunteer in Scottsdale, according to a press release.
Ms. Simmons is a senior leader on Axon’s corporate communications team in Scottsdale. She was a founding member of Axon Mosaic, the company’s employee resource group for Black and allied communities. In Scottsdale, through Axon and Mosaic, Simmons works to advance belonging and inclusion while supporting public safety through marketing, customer advocacy and storytelling.
As president of the Greater Phoenix Urban League Young Professionals, Simmons launched programs that expanded economic opportunity and civic engagement among underrepresented groups. She co-founded YP CoNext with Arizona State University to connect Black professionals with college students, fostering mentorship and bridging generational divides.
2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration
The annual event begins with registration and a reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by a recognition ceremony and keynote speaker at 6 p.m. Acclaimed author and scholar Dr. Mary Frances Berry is the featured speaker. CCD has hosted the event for 32 years to recognize and celebrate diversity throughout Scottsdale with a focus on youth and future community leaders.
