City of Aurora Earns Two National Awards
Published on April 15, 2026
The City of Aurora has been named a winner of two national awards in the 15th Annual Granicus Digital Government Awards, earning recognition in the category of Total Government Experience. Communications Manager Jon Zaghloul also received the Changemaker award. The awards honor government organizations that are leading the way in digital service delivery, operational efficiency, community engagement, and public transparency.
The City of Aurora delivered a sweeping digital transformation that unified its website, 311 service, and communications and engagement platforms into a single, connected resident experience. The City re-imagined how residents interact, learn, and engage with their government — creating a modern digital ecosystem built for clarity, accessibility, and community connection.
Zaghloul was recognized as a Change-maker for his leadership in the initiative. In just 13 months, he helped deploy a modernized City website, developed the City’s Your Voice platform, which hosts over 50 projects, and introduced the City’s first weekly newsletter, now reaching more than 160,000 subscribers. His work reshaped City-wide communication and has become a model for peer municipalities.
“What sets Aurora apart is the relentless focus on making government easier for people. From finding information to reporting an issue to engaging with city projects, residents move through one seamless experience without friction or confusion,” said Charlotte Lee, Director of CX & Innovation at Granicus. “Behind the scenes, staff now work within clearer standards and more consistent tools, making updates faster and service more predictable. The city didn’t just modernize its tools, it re-imagined how a city stays connected with its community.”
“Jon led a citywide leap forward — unifying Aurora’s website, engagement hub, and communications into one connected resident experience that feels modern, intuitive, and welcoming. He guided the shift from fragmented tools to a cohesive ecosystem where people can find information, ask questions, and participate without friction,” said Luke Norris, Granicus Vice President of Platform Strategy & Digital Transformation. “Jon helped build the channels for voice, accountability, and real connection, all while keeping the community at the heart of every decision. His leadership represents the kind of thoughtful innovation that strengthens trust and brings a city closer to its residents.”
The Digital Government Awards celebrate organizations across the globe that demonstrate measurable impact through modern digital solutions, innovative approaches to resident engagement, and a commitment to strengthening public trust. For more information, visit granicus.com/awards.