Juan Ciscomani

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Innovation Academy in Oro Valley for receiving an A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Scorpions. Congratulating Lawrence W. Cross Middle School

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate CDO High School in Oro Valley for receiving an A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest level recognition given to a public school. Go Dorados. Congratulating Innovation Academy in Oro Valley

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today full of pride to congratulate Cochise County Teacher of the Year and Carmichael Elementary School's fifth grade teacher Shanequa Matthias. Mr. Speaker, I thank her for her tireless efforts on behalf of our students. I firmly believe that education is the pillar of the American Dream, and it is our teachers who care for our students, pass on the knowledge and skills that they need to succeed, and inspire them to dream big and embrace all of the opportunities our great Nation has to offer. As a teacher, she embraced a nontraditional, engaging classroom style, where learning is less about memorization and more about creativity, play, and hands-on experience. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering belief in the potential of every single one of her students is deeply inspiring and has left a permanent mark on all who learn from her. Her work is directly contributing to a bigger, better, and brighter future for Cochise County. Mr. Speaker, I thank her for always uplifting her students. May she enjoy this well-deserved recognition. Once again, congratulations to Shanequa Matthias. Congratulating Canyon del Oro High School

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during National Police Week to honor the men and women in law enforcement for their invaluable service to our Nation. I especially thank all of the police officers in my district who work tirelessly to ensure that southeastern Arizona is safe, secure, and the best place to live and to carry out our own American Dream. During times of crisis, when others run away, our brave police officers run toward danger, putting themselves at risk to protect life and property. Their courage, selflessness, and dedication deserve our deepest respect, not just this week, but every single day. Let us also remember, honor, and mourn the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their legacy lives on in the lives they protected, the officers they mentored, and the communities they kept safe. Mr. Speaker, I thank every single office across this great Nation for their service. We are a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Nation because of them. Recognition of Shanequa Matthias

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor George R. Cunningham, a dedicated public servant who passed away at age 80 on May 7, 2025 at his home in Tucson, Arizona. George moved to Tucson as a boy with his family from Nashua, New Hampshire and it didn't take long for him to immerse himself in the civic affairs of his new home. His successful run for class president at Catalina High School was a clear indication of the path he was destined to take. Over the decades that followed, George rose through the ranks like few others. He went from working as an intern for the city manager of one of Arizona's smallest municipalities to the top of state government. He served in the executive branch of government and he served in the legislative branch of government. He worked for Democrats and he worked for Republicans. George never stopped serving and working for Arizona. George was a 22-year-old graduate of the University of Arizona when he started as an assistant city manager for the City of South Tucson. He helped run this one-square-mile city as he earned a Master's Public Administration from his alma mater. This, too, was a sign of the path George was destined to take. He would go on to be a master at public administration. Still in his twenties and now married, George left the city to become the executive director of the Tucson Urban Area Regional Review Committee. Under his leadership, the organization wisely streamlined its name to the Pima Association of Governments. This was 1970 and George was making $11,700 a year. Opportunity knocked a year later and George took a position as an assistant to William Jacquin, a Tucson Republican who served as president of the Arizona Senate. George's salary went up to $13,200 a year and George moved up to Phoenix. When Jacquin stepped down to run for governor, George stayed on to work for his successor, Bob Stump, who would go on to serve 26 years in Congress. Stump at the time called George a hard working guy--``maybe the hardest working guy in the building.'' George's thorough understanding of the legislative process led to his next post, as an assistant to the president of the University of Arizona. Here, too, he rose through the ranks. He would go on to serve in a number of key positions at the university and play a leading role in shaping the institution we know today. One of his principal duties was lobbying state lawmakers--a task George understood and did well. George was a UA vice president in 1988 when he was tapped to serve as chief of staff to Governor Rose Mofford, Arizona's first female governor and one of only three female governors in the country. It was a tremendous source of pride in Tucson at the time to have one of our own in such an influential position. According to a front-page profile in the Tucson Citizen, they suggested George could well be ``the most powerful man in all of state government.'' George was back in Tucson a couple years later and in 1992 launched his career as state lawmaker. He served in Arizona's House of Representatives until 1997 and in the Arizona Senate from 1997 to 2001. After running for Congress and the Arizona Corporation Commission, George became Governor Janet Napolitano's Deputy Chief of Staff for Finance and Budget. And then, in what his son Paul says he considered one of his greatest accomplishments, George created the Grand Canyon Institute, a non-partisan think tank focused on public policies that affect the future of Arizona. The future of Arizona mattered to George Cunningham. He served our state well.

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a cosponsor of H. Res. 340, commemorating April as Community College Month to honor and recognize the more than 1,000 public, Tribal, and independent community colleges across the U.S. Specifically, I want to highlight my alma mater, Pima Community College, and others from Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, Cochise College, Eastern Arizona College, and Central Arizona College. Together with colleges across the Nation, these institutions serve over 10 million students, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive and succeed. My time at Pima Community College was deeply impactful and gave me the tools that I needed to pursue my own American Dream, a dream that I am so blessed to live every single day. For decades, community colleges have empowered students of all ages and backgrounds with the knowledge, certification, and hands-on skills they need to thrive and succeed. From nurses to welders, teachers to construction workers, and so much more, community colleges are responsible for training the workforce that drives our economy forward. As we wrap up the month, I am proud to celebrate the vital role community colleges play in supporting our students, building communities, expanding opportunities, and strengthening our Nation. Congratulating Michael Humphries

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Michael Humphries for his distinguished service as Nogales Port of Entry director. After taking over Arizona's busiest border crossing in 2017, Director Humphries instituted policies that kept communities safe from dangerous contraband while ensuring trade and commerce continued to flow smoothly. He uncovered record hauls of deadly fentanyl and other dangerous drugs and made sure that essential products like food and medical equipment made it through the port of entry without interruption, even during the COVID pandemic. His efforts were critical to strengthening the security at our border while supporting economic vitality in southern Arizona. On behalf of Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude to Director Humphries for his years of service and wish him the very best during his well-deserved retirement. Celebrating Casa Grande Fire Department Promotions

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and courage of seven outstanding members of the Casa Grande Fire Department and congratulate them on a well-deserved promotion. Congratulations to Captain Matthew Farmer, Chief Tony Fornaro, Battalion Chief Ryan Littrell, and Engineers Iveta Murray, Garrett Walker, Jose Serrano, and Tyler Bogart. Their courage and selflessness keep our community safe. It is deeply honorable and much appreciated. I thank them for their service. Congratulations on a well-deserved promotion. Congratulating Orange Grove Middle School

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Arizona's Sixth Congressional District's own Orange Grove Middle School's eighth grade class for their big victory in the classroom, sweeping the Arizona Council on Economic Education's Economics Challenge. This competition allows students to compete and test their knowledge on economics, monetary policy, international trade, and even the stock market. What an incredibly bright group of young students. I know I definitely wasn't studying monetary policy in eighth grade like they are right now. Since January, 32 students have been hard at work, voluntarily spending their Sundays preparing for this competition. To all the students, teachers, and parents who had a role in this amazing achievement, I thank them for their dedication. They have proven themselves and made their school and community incredibly proud. They should enjoy this victory. They earned it.

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of United States Air Corps sergeant and World War II veteran, Edward James McGraw. A tail gunner, Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, prisoner of war survivor, beloved member of the Greatest Generation, and Green Valley resident, Edward McGraw represented the highest ideals of service, sacrifice, and resilience. Shot down over France in 1944, Edward's bravery saved countless lives, even as he endured frostbite, captivity, and some of the hardest conditions of the war. While he faced unimaginable challenges and harsh conditions, he continued to fight for his fellow countrymen and never lost his commitment to justice and freedom. After the war, he built a joyful life, carrying with him a quiet strength from his time in service. Edward's lifetime of service and his courage, grace, and patriotism will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. We will never forget the sacrifices that he and countless soldiers made for our freedoms. I thank Edward for his service, and may he rest in peace. Recognizing Carlo Rivero and Clayton Ratliff

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and highlight Clayton Ratliff and Carlo Rivero, two young athletes from Arizona who were selected to play on the 12U USA Baseball team. This is a monumental achievement that reflects their dedication and perseverance to the sport. Tryouts start with 25,000 hopeful participants with three rounds of eliminations, ultimately creating a final roster of only 18 players. Clayton is a proud resident of Casa Grande and an aspiring baseball player who is well respected by everyone in his community. He is a pitcher and outfielder. Carlo lives in Tucson and comes from a proud baseball family. His dad played college baseball, and his grandfather played professionally in the MLB. He plays as a pitcher and an infielder. I am grateful for the opportunity to honor these two young athletes for their accomplishments at such a young age. I know we all look forward to rooting for them and seeing all the amazing things that they will accomplish in their baseball and academic careers. Recognizing Andrada Polytechnic High School

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Andrada Polytechnic High School for receiving an A-plus School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Mavericks.

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Bost for yielding me time today to speak in support of my bill, H.R. 1228, the Prioritizing Veterans' Survivors Act. Since being elected, I have heard from military servicemembers and surviving family members about their struggles accessing VA benefits. In my district, I started a Veterans Advisory Council, and we often discuss this very topic to find ways to better this situation. I am always looking to ensure that Department of Veterans Affairs leaders hear the concerns of veterans' loved ones. From its creation, the Office of Survivors Assistance, OSA, was meant to serve as the principal adviser to the VA Secretary on all survivors' benefits and services, as well, including medical care and burial benefits. When the VA placed OSA within the Veterans Benefits Administration, they deprioritized survivors' policies and skirted Congress' intent when it created this office. My bill would fix this by requiring OSA to operate within the Secretary's office, thereby prioritizing advocacy and services for servicemembers' and veterans' surviving spouses and families, as well. I will highlight the comment of a member of my Veterans Advisory Council, Ms. Jane Strain, a surviving spouse and an Army veteran herself. She said: Surviving spouses and families who cared for children, moved many times during a military career, compromised their own careers, and maintained their homelife while the servicemember was deployed have earned and deserve attention when the spouse has passed. Placing the OSA directly under the Secretary will help to recognize the importance of this population. Mr. Speaker, I was proud to work alongside Chairman Bost on this to ensure survivors have a seat at the table. I urge my colleagues to support and pass this commonsense legislation again in the 119th Congress as it did without objection last Congress.

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Pusch Ridge Christian Academy men's basketball team for winning their first championship in the history of the program. The 11th ranked Lions beat the 5th ranked Palo Verde Titans with a score of 69-46, an incredible performance by all players. From being four games under 0.500 just 6 weeks ago to clinching their goal as champions, this victory is an incredible underdog story. This championship caps off a monumental achievement for second-year coach Steve Solita, who has transformed the Lions into a winning program during his short tenure. To the players, coaches, family members, and anyone who played a part in this special season, I congratulate them on this historic achievement. They have made their school and our community extremely proud. Mr. Speaker, may they know that we all look forward to rooting for them next season again. Recognizing Wolfgang Weber

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible contributions Wolfgang Weber has given to the soccer community in southern Arizona. Born in Germany in 1944, Wolfgang distinguished himself as a talented soccer player before immigrating to the United States in 1973. In 1977, he was the cofounder and head coach of Tucson United Soccer Club and the Tucson Soccer Academy. During this time, his team made it to eight finals and won three state championships. In 1982, he became head coach of Salpointe Catholic High School men's soccer program and has amassed an outstanding record of 888 games, 793 wins, went to the State finals 12 times, becoming State champions 10 times. He is the longest tenured head coach in Tucson's history, coaching 43 seasons. In fact, Coach Weber just led the Salpointe men's soccer team to a championship this year, their fifth title in a row. For his passion, devotion to all student athletes that he has coached, and his genuine love for the game of soccer, Wolfgang was rightfully inducted into the Pima County Sports Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Arizona High School Athletic Coaches Hall of Fame. Wolfgang Weber is known as the father of soccer in southern Arizona, and rightfully so. Wolfgang's legacy reminds us of the incredible impact one person can have in a community. Through his passion for soccer, he has enriched southern Arizona in ways that will be felt for generations to come. Honoring Mark Schmitt

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mark Schmitt on his retirement as the director of the Small Business Development Center at Cochise College and thank him for his outstanding leadership and support for small businesses, the backbone of our local economy. As a former businessowner himself, Mark leveraged his deep knowledge of the trials and triumphs of running a small business to help others. Through his 17 years as the SBDC, he was more than willing to help out those chasing their own American Dream. The center not only helps prospective owners launch their businesses, it also provides a variety of cost-free classes and services, such as forming a business plan, designing a website, and much, much more. Throughout his time as director, Mark was instrumental in hosting workshops, pursuing grants, and advocating for the small business economy to thrive. Mark's unwavering commitment to this purpose has truly made a long- lasting impact. I know we are all thankful for Mark's leadership and service to southern Arizona. His legacy and the invaluable contributions he has made will continue to positively influence his community and the lives of countless people. Once again, I thank him for his service.

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Tucson Fire Department Battalion Chief Scott Krause, who dedicated over three decades of his career in service to our community. Chief Krause joined the fire department in June of 1982, answering the call to serve with courage, commitment, and a genuine passion. Over the years, Chief Krause rose through the ranks, earning the respect of his colleagues through his leadership and the gratitude of his community. From the moment he answered the call of duty, Chief Krause had a deep commitment to helping and protecting those who are in need. Whether he was battling a fire or mentoring the next generation of first responders, Chief Krause exemplified the very best the fire service has to offer. His dedication never wavered, and his impact extended far beyond the firehouse, uplifting the lives of countless people in the community he so faithfully served. After 33 years of service, he retired in October of 2015, leaving behind a legacy of servant leadership that continues to echo and inspire. Sadly, on February 23 this year, Chief Krause passed away while doing something he loved--hunting. Today, let us remember not just his service, but the incredible person he was: a leader, mentor, friend, father, and husband. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he saved and the lasting impact he had on his community. May Chief Krause rest in peace. We are all grateful for his service. Honoring Invaluable Contributions of Mrs. Onita Davis

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the sustained patriotism, service, and invaluable contributions Mrs. Onita Davis has made to enrich the veteran community in Oro Valley, Arizona. Mrs. Davis has freely given her time, effort, and resources to tirelessly represent critical organizations in our district, like Wreaths Across America, the Military Officers Association, Friday Pilots, and countless other civic and veteran-focused organizations. Earlier this year, my family and I had the privilege of participating in Wreaths Across America at the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery at Marana, a deeply moving and beautiful tribute to those who committed the ultimate sacrifice in service for their fellow citizens. It was a touching event, made great by volunteers like Mrs. Davis. This is only one of the many, many events and programs that she focuses on and events that she has led in the community. Mrs. Davis and her husband, Ed, have also served as past officers in The American Legion Post 132, which has received multiple State and national awards for services to veterans during her tenure. Her unwavering dedication to our Nation's heroes has left an enduring impact, ensuring that veterans in our community receive the recognition, respect, and support that they deserve for their service to our Nation. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mrs. Davis for her steadfast devotion to our veterans and to our community. Congratulating Salpointe's Women's Soccer Team

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Salpointe women's soccer team for an amazing

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the men's Salpointe soccer team for their impressive season and also their State championship. In this game, there was no shortage of goals. At half time, the game was tied at 2-2, but in the second half, the Lancers jumped into action, scoring five second-half goals to secure the win. The Lancers dominated Saguaro by seven goals to two, earning their fifth title in a row and 12th State title overall, all under the legendary Coach Wolfgang Weber. The school and community are extremely proud of the coaches, student athletes, and everyone who played a part in this special season. They should enjoy their victory. I offer my congratulations on their achievements.

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the well- deserved retirement and to honor Kurt Kreutz's lifetime of service as a law enforcement officer. Born and raised on the northwest side of Tucson, Kurt's life had been defined by his dedication to his family, his community, and his decades-long career in law enforcement. He began his journey in law enforcement at just 19 years old, starting as a community service officer in the Tucson Police Department in 1977. A year later, he became a commissioned officer, launching a distinguished career spanning over 45 years. He served in various critical roles, including uniform patrol, metro narcotics, undercover, SWAT, and the DEA task force. In 1991, he was promoted to sergeant where he played a pivotal role in the department's first Bravo unit and the neighborhood crimes detective unit. After retirement from the Tucson Police Department, Kurt transitioned to working for the Pima County attorney's office as a law enforcement investigator. His expertise and commitment made a lasting impact, particularly during his 18-year assignment to the juvenile office. Kurt's contributions to law enforcement have been recognized with numerous awards, including the 88-CRIME TPD Officer of the Year in 1995. That same year, he was honored as Father of the Year by Tucson Lifestyle Magazine, a testament of his devotion not only to his career but also to his family. Kurt has been married to his wife, Angie, for 40 years, and together they have built a loving family, including 3 daughters, 10 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandson. With a lifetime dedicated to service, leadership, and family, Kurt Kreutz's legacy stands as a shining example of the American Dream. Mr. Speaker, I thank Kurt for all he has done and all he will continue to do for our community. We wish him all the best in his retirement. God bless Kurt Kreutz. Celebrating Tucson Rodeo's 100th Anniversary

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 100 years of the Tucson Rodeo, a cherished tradition that showcases the rich history and culture of the American West. Better known as ``The Celebration of the Cowboys,'' ``La Fiesta de los Vaqueros,'' this iconic tradition is a testament to our community's frontier spirit and deep-rooted heritage. From the heart-pounding bull rides to steer wrestling, barrel racing, and many, many more things, every event showcases the skill, determination, and grit that define this historic rodeo. Last weekend, the stands were filled with families, fans, and first- time visitors alike, all coming together to celebrate a century of this rich tradition. Mr. Speaker, whether you come for the thrill of the competition or simply to take part in this iconic event, the Tucson Rodeo has something to offer to everyone. Here is to another century of keeping the Western spirit alive and thriving. While we celebrate, let us also recognize and give thanks to the hardworking cowboys and cowgirls, the dedicated organizers as well, and the countless volunteers who make this event possible year after year after year. Their commitment ensures that this tradition can be enjoyed by generations to come. I grew up enjoying it myself. My kids now enjoy it, and I am hoping that my grandkids also will enjoy it one day. It is an amazing festivity in our district and in our State. I hope it continues for many, many more years.

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. McClintock for yielding me time here to talk about this bill. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise in support of my legislation, H.R. 35, the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act. We have heard talk on both sides of the aisle on the floor on this bill on the merits of it, and I am very proud to be supporting this and to actually share a little bit of the story of how we came about this bill. One of my first official meetings that I had after being elected in '22 was to go back to one of my border counties in Cochise. This meeting happened in early '23. I asked them, if there is one bill that I could start on immediately, what would it be? This meeting included law enforcement, local law enforcement from the State, from the county, Border Patrol, and stakeholders. The unanimous vote and feedback was to make sure that something like what happened to Agent Raul Gonzalez never happened again. The issue we homed in on dealt with the issue of high-speed chases and the inability of law enforcement to be able to pull over and punish those that are fleeing law enforcement and their failure to yield not being a Federal crime. This was it. To all those on the other side of the aisle here who criticize this bill as saying that it is anti-fill in the blank, this came from the same people that my friends on the other side claim that this is against. This is a bill that came from the feedback of those that are highly impacted by this in our border communities. It is not only law enforcement that is suffering and actually being risked in this kind of activity, it is innocent bystanders that are hurt by these high-speed chases that are literally dying in border communities and being killed by these pursuits. The bill is simple: It makes evading law enforcement within 100 miles of the border a Federal crime. To me, it is simply common sense that this should be a Federal crime. Far too many lives have been jeopardized and even tragically taken, like I said, at the hands of bad actors who engage in these high-speed chases. If you evade CBP or local law enforcement, you clearly don't have good intentions. That is obvious. Unfortunately, the current law does not make this a crime in and of itself. It leaves the burden of prosecuting these individuals to our local border communities, as if they don't have enough challenges already with what the previous administration caused at the border. Not only is this bill common sense, it is crucial and in some cases, even lifesaving. To quote one of my constituents, he said: At least once a week there is a high-speed chase through town that includes a 15-mile-an-hour school zone. Do residents need to die to get the attention needed to correct the border problem? The sad truth is that some have died, both law enforcement and innocent civilians. Law enforcement wants this bill, Mr. Speaker. Mayors in my border districts want this bill. My constituents want this bill, but every opposition that I have heard from my friends on the other side is coming from the same people that stood by as the previous administration and the White House caused this border crisis. Forgive me if I am not moved by those arguments. I am moved by the feedback from those that are on the front lines of this border crisis. I consistently hear about the detrimental impact that high-speed chases have in southeastern Arizona and across the southern border, specifically in the county that I mentioned earlier, Cochise County. This criminal activity is not just reserved to drug cartels or illegal immigrants or smugglers themselves. These cartels are targeting American citizens to be those drivers. In most cases, those drivers happen to be American citizens, as well. Yes, this legislation goes beyond just the illegal immigrants that are driving. It goes to punish also U.S. citizens that are engaging in this activity. Anyone endangering American lives should be held to account. This bill is about supporting our law enforcement communities who deal with this crisis on a daily basis to stop the smuggling and trafficking. In calendar year 2022 and 2023, Cochise County reports booking 2,884 individuals for border-related crimes, costing over $9.4 million to that local community. This is in one county, in one State. I have seen the toll it takes firsthand in our communities. We should be asking ourselves why these people are fleeing law enforcement. The answer is: These are bad actors who the cartels want to evade law enforcement. Finally, I will highlight the hero that this bill is named after.

Mr. CISCOMANI. Agent Raul Gonzalez was killed in 2022 while pursuing illegal immigrants in Texas. His death underscores the tragic truth that our Customs and Border Protection agents and officers risk their lives every day to protect our community. By passing this legislation, we are showing them that we have their backs. That is why this bill is supported by law enforcement groups like the National Border Patrol Council and the National Sheriffs' Association and many local law enforcement groups in Arizona, as well. This bill passed last Congress with bipartisan support. I hope and encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this bill, prioritize border security, and make our border communities safer.

Mr. CISCOMANI

Mr. CISCOMANI. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of my good friend J.D. Rottweiler for a remarkable 15 years of service as Cochise College's president and to wish him the best on his well-deserved retirement. Since his tenure began, J.D. has been a transformative leader known for his hyper-local initiatives and incredible work uplifting the college and its students. Under his leadership, Cochise College expanded access to education by adding student housing at the Sierra Vista campus and launching the First Responders Academy to train and equip students with the tools necessary to keep all of their communities safe. He oversaw the remodeling and revitalization of Sierra Vista's former hospital into an innovative downtown center that houses nursing, cybersecurity, culinary, and lifelong learning programs. Moreover, he played a pivotal role ensuring his students had access to high-speed fiber internet at the Douglas campus by enhancing connectivity and accessibility for students and staff. As a proud product of community college myself, I know firsthand the crucial role these programs play in the lives of our students. My friend J.D. has truly left a lasting legacy not only for our students but for our entire community. May he enjoy his well-deserved retirement. He has accomplished a lot, and I look forward to seeing him around the district soon. Honoring Bruce Bigelow