Police and Citizens Awards Honoree
Pasadena Center Operating Company and the Pasadena Convention Center were honored by the Pasadena Police Department at its 5th Annual Police and Citizens Awards Ceremony for their service to the community during the Eaton Fire. The recognition highlights the Convention Center team’s compassion, professionalism, and commitment to providing a place of safety, stability, and support for residents displaced during one of Pasadena’s most challenging moments.
Pasadena Center Operating Company recognized at 5th Annual Police and Citizens Awards Ceremony
May 2026 - The Pasadena Convention Center was honored by the Pasadena Police Department at its 5th Annual Police and Citizens Awards Ceremony for its service to the community during the Eaton Fire.
The annual awards ceremony recognizes public safety personnel and community members who have demonstrated distinguished service and made meaningful contributions to the City of Pasadena. This year, the Pasadena Convention Center was recognized for its critical role in supporting residents displaced by the devastating Eaton Fire.
For several weeks following the fire, the Pasadena Convention Center served as a shelter and support site for community members forced from their homes. Working in close partnership with the Pasadena Police Department, the City of Pasadena, and numerous community organizations, the facility provided a safe and welcoming environment where displaced residents could access shelter, essential resources, information, and support services.
The Convention Center team quickly transformed the facility to meet the needs of a large-scale shelter operation, adapting event spaces to meet the needs of a large-scale shelter operation. Staff worked around the clock to ensure the facility remained organized, functional, and comfortable during a challenging and emotional time for the community.
In recognizing the Convention Center, the Pasadena Police Department highlighted the team's professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to serving others. The department noted that the facility provided not only physical shelter, but also a sense of stability, care, and dignity for those impacted by the disaster.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team and the strength of our partnerships throughout Pasadena,” said Michael Ross, CEO of Pasadena Center Operating Company. “We are honored to have played a role in supporting our community during such a difficult time.”
The recognition serves as a reminder of the resilience of the Pasadena community and the collaborative spirit that emerged in response to the Eaton Fire. Through the efforts of public safety personnel, city staff, community organizations, volunteers, and local residents, Pasadena came together to support those affected and begin the path toward recovery.
Pasadena Center Operating Company is proud to accept this recognition on behalf of the many staff members, partners, and volunteers whose compassion and commitment helped provide comfort and support to community members during one of the city's most challenging moments.