Pima, Tucson recognize outstanding people and organizations in service to education

Jun 1, 2024

These recipients exemplify the values of service, leadership, and advocacy that are essential to fostering a thriving educational environment

Aliyah Ravenell, student at Desert Sky Middle School, alongside their sisters when presented with the ‘Outstanding Student Leader Award’ during the Literacy Connects “Stories That Soar!” event.

The Metropolitan Education Commission (MEC), a shared body between by Pima County and the City of Tucson entrusted to promote educational access and excellence, proudly presents ten recipients with the 34th annual Crystal Apple Awards.

Since its inception in 1990, MEC has empowered and celebrated learners and educators through various programs and services, including the prestigious Crystal Apple Awards. "These awards celebrate the exceptional dedication and impact of individuals, programs, and organizations for their outstanding contributions to education in our community," said Rocque Perez, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Education Commission. "These recipients exemplify the values of service, leadership, and advocacy that are essential to fostering a thriving educational environment in Tucson and the greater Pima County."

"As a former MEC Commissioner and Tucson Unified Governing Board member, I know firsthand the importance of recognizing and celebrating those in our community championing education and learning,” said Adelita Grijalva, Pima County Board of Supervisors Chair. “I am proud to advocate for accessible, high-quality education for every student in Pima County, and this year’s honorees are incredible examples of the partners we need in order to work towards that goal."

City of Tucson Ward 2 Councilman Paul Cunningham added, "I just finished up my last semester teaching, and I was always struck by the sacrifice and compassion that my sister and brother teachers showed on the job. This group of Crystal Apple awardees are the best of a fine group of educators, support staff, youth, and organizations we have in our community."

To the surprise of each recipient, they were presented the award at their respective school or workplace. This year’s ten recipients are as follows:

Linda Arzoumanian, Lifetime Advocate of the Year

Former Pima County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Linda Arzoumanian was recognized with the Dr. June Webb Vignery Lifetime Advocate of the Year Award for her lifetime of service as an educational advocate. She played a key role in establishing the Pima JTED and supporting rural school districts, ensuring that quality educational services are available to all students, including those in the county juvenile detention center. Dr. Arzoumanian was surprised at an intimate lunch among former colleagues and friends.

Silvie Mwibeleca, Youth of the Year

Maura McKechnie, Teacher of the Year

Stephanie Arnold, Counselor of the Year

Vantage West Credit Union, Student Serving Financial Institution of the Year

Symara Duarte, Outstanding College Advocate

Aliyah Ravenell, Outstanding Student Leader

Literacy Connects, Outstanding Service to Community

SARSEF, Outstanding Service to Community

UA Project Outreach FAMILIA, Outstanding Community Partner

Prior to the pandemic, the Crystal Apple Awards was an annual celebration bringing together a cross-section of the community to recognize their peers, colleagues, and fellow community members. In Spring 2025, the Crystal Apple Awards will make its return as a large evening event recognizing both the 2024 and 2025 recipients.