Angela “Angie” Ruíz Tewksbury, Legacy Inductee(1926–2011,left a legacy deeply woven into the educational and civic fabric of Globe, Arizona. As the first Mexican American woman elected to the Globe Unified School District Board of Education, Angie’s thirteen-year tenure from 1969 to 1982 was marked by fearless advocacy, trailblazing leadership, and a commitment to equality and public service. Her work changed the landscape of public education in Globe and elevated the voice of underrepresented communities.

Born on August 2, 1926, in Globe, Arizona, Angie was raised in a large family in a modest adobe home near a segregated section of town. Her father, Dionicio, was an immigrant from Durango, Mexico., Her mother, Rosaura, became a widow while Angie was still a teenager. Despite economic hardship, Angie graduated from Globe High School in 1946. Her early life instilled in her a deep respect for education and a desire to ensure others had access to the same opportunities.

As a young mother with school-age children who attended a school with a majority Mexican American school population in the 1960s, Angie became involved in school and community activities. Her fluency in Spanish allowed her to serve as a bridge between the school system and Spanish-speaking families, ensuring they were informed and involved in their children’s education. These early experiences inspired her to pursue a more formal leadership role.

In 1969, Angie made history by being elected to the Globe Public School Board. She was reelected in 1974 and 1978, serving three terms as board president and two terms as board clerk. As the first Mexican American woman on the board, she brought a new perspective to educational policy and decision-making. Recognizing the importance of parental involvement, she also advocated for the inclusion of parents in textbook selection—an unprecedented move that empowered the community and reinforced transparency and trust. Her presence challenged norms and opened doors for more inclusive representation.

Among her most significant contributions was her role in advocating for gender equality under Title IX of the Civil Rights Act.  In 1975, during her school board presidency, she led heated debates on the fair use of the district’s newly built athletic track. Some Board members, parents and teachers believed that Title IX negatively affected the boys’ athletic programs. They argued that funding girls’ athletic programs was unnecessary because girls’ sports were not important or wanted. Angie disagreed. Amidst community resistance and misinformation, she stood firm in her support of girls’ sports and insisted that federal funds be used equitably. Many community members called for Angie’s resignation. They threatened the recall of all members of the Globe School Board. After all concerns were discussed in public forums, the Globe School Board agreed to comply with Title IX and not risk the loss of federal funds. Thanks to her leadership, the board adopted a policy of gender equity in athletics, ensuring girls had equal access to sports facilities and funding. Her unwavering commitment earned her the affectionate title, “Globe’s Mother of Title IX.” The Board became a leader of gender equality in rural Arizona.

Angie was also instrumental in championing safety improvements at Central School after the rerouting of US 60-70 placed children at risk when walking to school. Through years of advocacy, coalition-building, and public outreach—including engaging Spanish-speaking families—she helped lead the effort that culminated in the construction of a pedestrian bridge over the busy highway, completed in time for the 1979–80 school year.

Her influence extended beyond board meetings and infrastructure projects. She was an advocate for hiring qualified teachers, expanding advanced curricula, and passing bonds for the renovation and construction of essential school facilities. Beyond her formal roles, Angie remained a constant mentor and advocate in her community. She often volunteered as a translator, assisted families with scholarship applications, and urged young people, especially girls, to pursue education beyond high school. Her work helped dismantle cultural and institutional barriers and inspired generations to aim higher.

Angie received numerous accolades for her service, including the prestigious All Arizona School Board Award from the Arizona School Board Association in 1982. She was named “Woman of the Year” in 1969 by both the Arizona Record and the Arizona Silver Belt and also received the “Citizen of the Year” award from the Globe Chamber of Commerce. In 2012, she was posthumously inducted into the Globe High School Hall of Fame.

Angela Ruíz Tewksbury passed away on September 11, 2011, leaving behind a legacy of justice, compassion, and empowerment. Her legacy remains a testament to the power of representation and the impact of courageous leadership Through her groundbreaking service and enduring vision, she transformed her local school system..