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An Evening to Empower(ED) Nominations

Open February 10 to March 3, 2025

We invite the community to join us in recognizing the remarkable contributions of educators, learners, and community partners empowering their communities through service to education in Tucson and Pima County.


Building on nearly three decades of honoring excellence in education, An Evening to Empower(ED) will continue the legacy of the Crystal Apple Awards Luncheon, which recognized more than 150 recipients over 29 years. While the COVID-19 pandemic led to a shift in award presentations to recipients' places of learning and work, this event will mark a long-awaited return to an in-person celebration.


At the heart of the event is the recognition of exceptional educators, students, and organizations whose dedication empowers entire communities. This year’s awards include:


  • Exemplary Educators – Honors one outstanding educator from the greater community and nine from each of Pima County’s nine public school districts for their contributions to the success, excellence and mentorship of learners.

  • Crystal Apple Awards – Recognizes excellence across ten categories, including Lifetime Advocate of the Year, Superintendent of the Year, Administrator of the Year, Counselor of the Year, Teacher of the Year, Youth of the Year, Outstanding Service to Community and Outstanding Student-Serving Financial Institution.

  • College Catalyst Cups – Recognizes five high schools, one within each District of Pima County, that demonstrated a high level of service and innovation in encouraging post-secondary pursuits and readiness among its students.


Each recipient will be selected from the total pool of nominations per award title and recognized in their place of learning or work. Collectively, they will be celebrated at An Evening to Empower(ED). The event will take place on May 9, 2025, at the Pima Community College Aviation Tech Center, coinciding with Teacher Appreciation Week.

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