Coinciding with Teacher Appreciation Week, this event highlights the contributions of educators, students, schools, and community partners

The Metro Education Commission (MEC), a joint body of Pima County and the City of Tucson, composed of appointed learners, educators, and officials across education, government and the greater community, is proud to announce the honorees for An Evening to Empower(ED), presented by Vantage West Credit Union and hosted by Pima Community College at the Aviation Technology Center on Friday, May 9, 2025.

Coinciding with Teacher Appreciation Week, this region-wide celebration uplifts the exceptional contributions of educators, students, schools, and community partners working to empower learning outcomes across the region. This event continues the 34-year legacy of the Crystal Apple Awards, the official education awards of the City of Tucson and Pima County. Notably, this will be the first in-person celebration since 2019, before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Arizona’s future depends on how well we support our learners today. An Evening to Empower(ED) will honor those who make that support possible — from educators and school leaders to students and organizations working behind the scenes to open doors of opportunity,” said Rocque Perez, Executive Director of the Metro Education Commission. “These honorees and program participants exemplify what it means to serve with intention and uplift others in pursuit of a more just, educated, and thriving community.”

“At a time when education is both our greatest challenge and most powerful opportunity, it’s inspiring to come together and honor those who uplift our students every single day,” said Regina Romero, Mayor of Tucson. “From the classroom to the community, each of the honorees remind us of the deep impact one person can have on a young person’s life. I’m proud to stand with the Metro Education Commission and all our partners in celebrating their incredible dedication and heart.”

“As a proud career educator, I know the daily opportunities dedicated professionals have to influence the lives of the children we serve. It will be a great joy to take part in this event and honor the efforts of those being recognized,” said Rex Scott, Chair for the Pima County Board Supervisors. “On behalf of the Board, thank you to the Metropolitan Education Commission for giving our community the chance to celebrate the achievements of those who are shaping the futures of our students.”

Those to be recognized were notified within their classes and workplaces, and fall under several categories.

Crystal Apple Honorees:

• June Webb-Vignery Lifetime Education Advocate: Bruce Burke

• Superintendent of the Year: Gabriel Trujillo, Tucson Unified School District

• Administrator of the Year: Ethan Hurley, Vail School District

• Counselor of the Year: Gayle Morrison, Empire High School

• Teacher of the Year: Jessica Hunt, Marana High School

• Youth of the Year: Owen Brosanders, University High School

• Outstanding Service to Community: Youth Leadership Academy, Greater Tucson Leadership

• Outstanding Service to Community: Vida Rodriguez, Goodwill of Southern Arizona

• Outstanding Service to Community: Karla González-Quezada, Pima Community College

• Outstanding Student-Serving Financial Institution: Vantage West Credit Union

Exemplary Educators:

• Amphi: Shawn Smith, Amphitheater High School

• Catalina Foothills: Renee Shane-Boyd, Catalina Foothills High School

• Marana: Mark Calton, Marana High School

• Flowing Wells: Erica Wofford, J. Robert Hendricks Elementary

• Sahuarita: Elizabeth Dicochea, Anza Trail K-8

• Sunnyside: Monica Ayon, Los Niños Elementary

• Tucson: Estefania Herrera, Pueblo High School

• Vail: Lisa Scott, Esmond Station Elementary

• Greater Community: Jessica Howe, Pipeline AZ

College Catalysts:

• Sunnyside High School

• Marana High School

• Cienega High School

The evening will also celebrate the culmination of service by MEC’s Peer Coaches and Youth Civic Fellows—young leaders who have dedicated their time and talents to educational and civic empowerment among their peers.

Visit mectucson.org/empowered to purchase tickets and tables, and explore ad and sponsorship opportunities. 

About the Metro Education Commission:

The Metro Education Commission is an advisory body and nonprofit created jointly in 1990 by the City of Tucson and Pima County, under the leadership of then-Mayor Tom Volgy and then-Supervisor Raúl Grijalva. Composed of students, educators, and leaders from across education, government, and the community, MEC empowers a more educated and engaged community by democratizing access to learning, service, and opportunity for all.

Media Contact: Rocque Perez, Executive Director Metro Education Commission rocque@mectucson.org