Third-generation Arizonan whose great-grandparents emigrated from Mexico before Arizona was a state, settling in Morenci where her great-grandfather worked in the mines. Originally from Somerton near Yuma. Retired from the City of Phoenix after 31 years in Parks and Recreation and Human Services. One of the first out lesbians elected to the Arizona House.
PC
Serving
About
Family & Heritage
Third-generation Arizonan whose great-grandparents emigrated from Mexico before Arizona was a state, settling in Morenci where her great-grandfather worked in the mines. Great-grandparents later became farmworkers in the Yuma valley during the 1920s. Originally from Somerton near Yuma. Second oldest of 8 children. First in her family to graduate from college; six siblings also earned ASU degrees, three holding Master's degrees. She and her wife have three grandchildren.
Political Career
Before Politics
Retired from the City of Phoenix after 31 years, working in Parks and Recreation and Human Services departments. Spent 25 years providing recreational and social services and resources for seniors. Has lived in the Phoenix area over 40 years and in Ahwatukee since 1991.
Education
BS in Recreation Management (emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation), Arizona State University; MA in Administration and Leadership, Northern Arizona University
Key Issues & Priorities
Public education funding and teacher compensation
Senior services, caregiving resources, and aging-in-place programs
Climate change and water resource protection
Support staff wages in schools