Dr. Lupita Hightower Honored with Voice4Equity Lifetime Achievement Award
In a significant recognition of her commitment to educational equity, Dr. Lupita Hightower, Superintendent of the Tolleson Elementary School District, is set to receive the prestigious Voice4Equity Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025. This honor underscores her substantial influence on educational policies and the promotion of leadership roles for women in public education.
The award ceremony is scheduled as part of the Tech, Power and Equity Conference happening from January 23 to 25, 2025, at the Hyatt Place in Phoenix. A special recognition event will highlight Dr. Hightower’s achievements on January 25 at 11 AM.
"Dr. Hightower exemplifies the bold educational leadership that transforms communities," remarked Dr. Christina DeJesus Kishimoto, the Chief Executive Officer of Voice4Equity. Her tireless efforts have not only made a significant impact within Arizona but have also inspired women educators across the nation to aspire for roles in educational leadership, particularly as superintendents.
Dr. Hightower’s legacy within the Tolleson district is one marked by excellence and inclusivity. Her leadership has resulted in numerous opportunities for students and the dismantling of barriers preventing their success. According to Assistant Superintendent Gisselle Herrera, who will be succeeding her, Dr. Hightower has modeled leadership that is kind, compassionate, and inclusive, deeply influencing both educators and students alike.
The Voice4Equity Lifetime Achievement Award honors individuals who demonstrate unwavering commitment to equity in public schools while paving the way for women to step into leadership positions in education. Previous recipients including Dr. Sharon Contreras (2024) and Dr. Carmen Ayala (2023) have set a high bar for excellence in this regard.
To celebrate Dr. Hightower’s contributions, Voice4Equity will provide a special one-day conference registration for Arizona Educators enabling local educational leaders to attend and participate in the recognition of her enduring commitment to educational equity. This initiative reflects the organization’s mission to promote greater representation and success for women in educational leadership roles.
The Tech, Power and Equity Conference aims to gather educational leaders dedicated to innovating and advancing equity within the public education system. Those interested can find additional information about the conference through the Voice4Equity website.
Voice4Equity is committed to fostering equitable futures for all students and elevating women into executive leadership roles within the education sector. Through various events and development programs, the organization strives to enhance educational leadership and improve overall educational outcomes across the United States.
For details regarding the Tech, Power and Equity Conference or more information about Voice4Equity, interested parties are encouraged to reach out to Steve Smith at the provided email address. The award and the conference not only celebrate Dr. Hightower but also serve as an inspiration to future educational leaders, reflecting the ongoing endeavor to achieve equity and excellence in education.