[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 108 (Wednesday, June 21, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E591-E592]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING GRACIELA GARCIA CANDIA'S RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. RAUL M. GRIJALVA

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 21, 2023

  Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of 
Graciela Garcia Candia.
  Graciela Garcia Candia is an esteemed educator and leader who has 
dedicated 41 years of her life to Jobs for Arizona's Graduates, a 
program that empowers youth to achieve academic, personal, and 
professional success in Arizona. Raised in Arizona after her family 
immigrated from Mexico when she was only three years old, Graciela's 
personal journey fuels her passion for championing the educational 
needs of the state's youth.
  Graciela's connection with Jobs for Arizona's Graduates began in 1982 
when she joined as the Program Coordinator at Tolleson Union High 
School. Her exceptional performance garnered numerous local and 
national awards, highlighting her commitment and effectiveness in 
helping students succeed. In 1999, Graciela took on the role of Program 
Manager, where she played a pivotal role in enhancing program 
management and services for the organization.
  In 2003, Graciela's unwavering dedication and desire to make a 
lasting impact led her to assume the position of president of Jobs for 
Arizona's Graduates. It was under her leadership the program 
flourished. Graciela has been instrumental in securing millions of 
dollars in financial support, establishing valuable partnerships, 
expanding program sites, and forging strong relationships with key 
stakeholders such as businesses, government entities, educational 
institutions, and community leaders.
  Graciela's genuine ``students come first'' attitude has been a 
guiding principle throughout her career. Her unwavering commitment to 
serving and providing quality services to underrepresented students in 
Arizona has been the driving force behind Jobs for Arizona's Graduates' 
success. Her leadership has propelled Jobs for Arizona's Graduates to 
receive the highest honor awarded by Jobs for America's Graduates for 
the past 21 years.
  As Graciela Garcia Candia enters a well-deserved retirement, her 
profound impact on the lives of countless young individuals in Arizona

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will forever be remembered. Her legacy as an educator and leader will 
serve as an inspiration for future generations, and her dedication to 
empowering underserved youth will continue to shape the future of 
education in Arizona.

                          ____________________