A student at Andrada Polytechnic High School, Silvie Mwibeleca was recognized as Youth of the Year for her leadership and community service. A former refugee from Tanzania, Silvie excels academically and is involved in numerous community initiatives, including leading a weekly community night and participating in the Social Justice Dance Group. According to MEC, her proactive and service-oriented nature, combined with her role in the Pima Community College Upward Bound program, highlights her commitment to making a difference. Silvie was surprised in class among her peers during her final week of school.

From Dodge Traditional Magnet Middle School, Maura McKechnie was recognized as Teacher of the Year for her dedicated 14-year tenure. In that time, she has taught math, coached various sports, and mentored many student teachers. Her collaborative spirit and contributions to school leadership and curriculum development were among just a few of her current commitments that stood out to MEC. Maura was surprised at an end-of-year celebration of the school’s National Honor Society, applauded by over a hundred students and their families.

From Sunnyside High School, Stephanie Arnold was recognized as Counselor of the Year for her unwavering support and guidance to students. She has led her school to the highest FAFSA completion rate in the state and significantly increased student admissions to the University of Arizona. Her dedication to mentoring counselor interns and breaking down barriers to post-secondary education showcases her profound impact on the community. In addition to this recognition, she received a commendation from the Office of the Governor, presented by Patrick Robles, a former student at Sunnyside High School and a community liaison for the Governor’s Southern Arizona office. Stephanie was surprised at an end-of-year meeting at Sunnyside High School, joined by staff, educators, and her family.

New among the award categories this year, Vantage West Credit Union was recognized as Student-Serving Financial Institution of the Year for its steadfast support of educational endeavors. Since 2015, VW has contributed over $100,000 in scholarships, provided guidance on financing college education, and partnered with the Earn to Learn program. According to MEC, the decision to pay off the fall 2022 lunch debt for Tucson Unified School District students is a highlight of their commitment to learners and in-need families. Vantage West Credit Union’s award was presented to its CEO at their midtown office. 

Coordinator of Outreach and Scholarship at Pima Community College, Symara Duarte was recognized as Outstanding College Advocate for her dedicated efforts to expand college access. She has significantly increased high school visits to inform students about financial aid options, focusing on underserved minorities. As a first-generation college student herself, Symara's empathetic approach has been instrumental in helping students navigate the complexities of financial aid, making higher education more accessible. Symara was surprised in a meeting among colleagues at the college's midtown offices.

A student at Desert Sky Middle School, Aliyah Ravenell was recognized as Outstanding Student Leader for their leadership and dedication to the Literacy Connects Arts Integration Programs. According to Literacy Connects, Aliyah significantly enhanced peer engagement during the pandemic and continues to mentor younger students to date. Aliyah's academic excellence, inclusive leadership, and conflict resolution skills made them a deserving recipient of the award. Aliyah was surprised at the Literacy Connects “Best of Stories that Soar!” event, hosted at Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, attended by over 200 children and their family members.

A local nonprofit, Literacy Connects was recognized for Outstanding Service to Community for its comprehensive literacy programs that span all ages. Utilizing over 600 volunteers, the organization has made a significant impact through personalized learning experiences, distribution of free books, and support for educational milestones. Their community-integrated approach ensures that their services are both accessible and impactful. Literacy Connects was surprised during an annual strategy setting meeting among board members.

Also a local non-profit, SARSEF was recognized for Outstanding Service to Community for its mission to create Arizona’s next generation of critical thinkers and problem solvers through science and engineering. Engaging over 7,000 students in outreach programs last year, SARSEF focuses on high-poverty areas to ensure equitable access to STEM education. According to MEC, their long-standing Regional Science and Engineering Fair, along with various outreach activities, highlights their commitment to fostering STEM identities among students and providing professional development for teachers and caregivers. SARSEF was surprised during a team meeting at their home base in the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona complex.

A collaboration between the University of Arizona College of Education and Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives, UA Project Outreach FAMILIA was recognized as Outstanding Community Partner for its efforts to empower underrepresented students and their families in pursuing higher education. According to MEC, the project provides comprehensive support, including college application assistance, scholarship acquisition, and family-engaging workshops, making higher education more accessible for first-generation college students. Project Outreach FAMILIA was surprised at the Project’s end-of-year celebration among students committed to going to college.