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Congressman Juan Sesquamani highlights 'American dream' at Casa Grande Union awards event
Summary
U.S. Rep. Juan Sesquamani spoke at Casa Grande Union High School District's third annual American Dream Inspirational Awards on Aug. 11, praising staff and community partners and sharing his immigrant-to-Congress narrative as the board recognized dozens of employees and volunteers.
U.S. Rep. Juan Sesquamani spoke to a packed room at the Casa Grande Union High School District board meeting on Aug. 11, 2025, celebrating district staff and community partners honored with the district's American Dream Inspirational Awards. "I am your congressman, and, I'm honored to be here today with you for this special event," Sesquamani said, framing the awards around his personal story of immigration and public‑school opportunity.
Superintendent Jeff Lavender opened the recognitions and introduced the awards, saying the ceremony was intended to honor educators and partners who have gone "above and beyond" for students. Lavender told the board the awards are the district's third annual celebration and thanked the many community groups — including the Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce — that have engaged with the district during recent bond outreach.
Sesquamani recounted his family's immigration story and urged students and guests not to adopt a "victim mentality," telling the audience the government should create an environment in which individuals can pursue education and careers. "The government is supposed to do is create an environment where you can go out there and start a business if you want to or go to school if you want to," he said.
District staff and community partners named during the ceremony included Michelle Bottomley, John Craig, Monica Diaz, Ryan Felker, Dr. LaJoy Gardner, Harley Gregg, Jolene Hanson, Jamie Harris, board member Kelly Harrington, Jennifer Courtson, Norma McElor, Esther Martinez (bus driver), Karina Mendoza, Maria Navarro, Sabrina Packard, Veronica Price, Ernie Razzo, Diana Ritchie (director of transportation), Jesse Rodriguez and others. The superintendent noted student athletes and staff also received recognition for recent honors and participation at halftime events tied to college and professional showcases.
The presentation concluded with district leaders thanking the congressman and inviting awardees and family members forward for photographs. The board then moved on to the regular agenda, including the superintendent's report and several action items.
The district said the awards are part of ongoing community engagement to highlight staff service and student achievement; no formal action was required for the recognitions themselves.
