Newsroom

Southern Star was recognized with two awards at the 2025 Ally GRIT Awards in Houston, TX, last week. The GRIT awards celebrate individuals and organizations who exemplify growth, resilience, innovation and talent in the energy industry. 

Ricardo Torres, Senior Operator in Wichita, KS, was honored with a Professional Award at the GRIT Awards ceremony. Torres demonstrated GRIT (growth, resilience, innovation and talent), not only with our team, but also outside the workplace working with his nonprofit organization, Torres Boxing Academy.  

“It was an incredible experience to represent Southern Star on a national stage and to see firsthand the recognition our company receives for the culture we’ve built,” Torres said. 

Southern Star’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Council was also recognized as a Best Energy Resource Group. The DEI Council was acknowledged for their work in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion for Southern Star. This included the DEI Council certification, Power Up Women’s Conference, Supplier Diversity Day, DEI Roadshow, Veterans Wall of Honor, and events to support Juneteenth and other celebrations. 

Twanna Hardy, Director, DEI in Houston, TX, said this recognition is a testament to the work of the Southern Star team. 

“I want to thank all of the current and previous DEI Council members who have played a part in advancing our DEI journey,” Hardy said. 

Thank you to Ally for supporting and recognizing team members across the energy industry for driving growth and moving us forward. 

About Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, Inc. 

Southern Star is a leading transporter of natural gas to America’s heartland, with approximately 5,800 miles of natural gas transmission pipeline in the Midwest and Mid-Continent regions of the United States. Our pipeline system, facilities and employees are located in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska and Texas, with our headquarters in Owensboro, KY. 
 
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