COLORADO — Cara Sponaugle was named this year’s recipient of the Phoenix Award. As the national post-fire program leader for the Forest Service, Sponaugle exemplifies passion and commitment for making meaningful change at the ground level by providing actionable support and guidance to the field through improved processes and tools.

The Phoenix Award recognizes individuals who exemplify tireless dedication to helping communities rise from the ashes, mirroring the resilience of the legendary phoenix. 

Sponaugle has made substantial contributions over the last five years to post-fire response and recovery by building and expanding the Burned Area Emergency Response and Burned Area Rehabilitation programs. She develops and leads training for the field, provides expertise and technical support during fire season and leads efforts to create accessible guidance to the field with interagency and other partners.  

As the foremost national expert, Sponaugle is leading the way in partnership with other countries such as India, Portugal and Canada to develop post-fire response and recovery programs. Her leadership has helped create a network of skilled post-fire practitioners. Her tireless dedication to overcoming challenges exemplifies a true champion, supporting post-fire programs and practitioners to constantly improve our collective efforts. 

The Phoenix Award is sponsored by Coaltions and Collaboratives, a national leader and convener of post-fire practitioners. The award was established to acknowledge outstanding contributions and program impacts in post-wildfire recovery and restoration. It signifies the highest level of accomplishment, selflessness and commitment to fostering inclusive, thoughtful and transformative recovery after wildland fires.