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On Thursday, May 15th, we proudly welcomed over 220 guests to our annual Circle of Excellence event—a signature celebration that honors the outstanding contributions of our workplace and community partners.

This inspiring evening is more than just a recognition event; it’s a heartfelt thank-you to the businesses, organizations, and individuals who go above and beyond in support of United Way of Southern Arizona’s mission. Their generosity—through time, talent, and resources—fuels our efforts to improve lives and create lasting change across the region.

This year’s program was emceed by Krystal Pino, beloved local TV and radio personality and Director of Marketing & New Business for the Arizona Rattlers. Her vibrant energy set the tone for a morning filled with celebration and connection.

We were also honored to hear a moving speech from Tony Penn, our CEO & President, who reflected on the journey of United Way and the future of community leadership. This year marked Tony’s final Circle of Excellence as he prepares to step down after 15 years of remarkable leadership.

Circle of Excellence shines a spotlight on the champions of our annual workplace campaigns—those who drive philanthropic giving, volunteer their time, and invest in the well-being of our community. It’s a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together.

We proudly presented 11 Company Awards recognizing organizations that have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to community well-being through their partnerships with United Way. These awards celebrate leadership in giving, volunteerism, and year-round support. The prestigious Gold, Silver, and Bronze Honors recognized companies that have consistently demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to United Way of Tucson over the years.