Mayor Corey D Woods
Mayor, City of Tempe
“This year and every year, I am incredibly thankful for family and friends. As cliché as it might sound, I’ve found that their support is the most important thing when you live a life of public service. I love my job, and it does require long hours. That’s why I genuinely value my family, friends, and neighbors who have always provided support, feedback, and guidance during my 12-plus years in elected office.”
Joe Forte
Executive Director, Keep Tempe Beautiful
"This year, I’m thankful for serving on the board of the Tempe Sister Cities organization. I’ve found an incredible group of committed community members who are dedicated to promoting peace and global understanding. It’s been inspiring to work with such passionate individuals. I’m also excited to share that applications for student delegates are now open! If you know any 11th graders who live in Tempe and are interested in an amazing cultural exchange opportunity, please pass along this information. It’s a life-changing experience!"
Octavia Harris, MA, MPA,CNP
Executive Director, Tempe Community Council
"As executive director of Tempe Community Council, a local nonprofit, I am truly thankful for the generosity of those who support our mission. Thanks to our community partners, we can continue offering vital programs like free tax assistance, youth services, and funding for numerous other human service programs, which strengthen Tempe as a whole. This spirit of giving plays a key role in creating opportunities for all residents. Together, we are fostering a community where everyone has the resources they need to thrive, and I’m grateful to be part of this shared effort."
Mckell Keeney
Director, For Our City Tempe
Communications Director, JustServe.org
"Every day, I feel immense gratitude for the many blessings in my life. I am fortunate to live in a country that values freedom, allowing me to pursue happiness. Arizona, with its stunning natural beauty, is where I call home, specifically Tempe—a place where I’ve built lifelong friendships with people from all walks of life. I find joy in serving others through the amazing non-profits in our community. I am deeply thankful for my family, for my faith in God and for the gift of good health."
Robin Arredondo-Savage
Tempe Business Owner, Past Tempe City Councilmember, Past Vice Mayor and currently
Tempe Chamber of Commerce Interim President/CEO
"Born and raised in Tempe, and having also raised my own family in here, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve my hometown. In this day and age, you might think it almost strange that I put down roots where I grew up. But the strong sense of community and shared values here shaped who I am, sparking my passion for public service. Being able to give back to the very place that nurtured this in me is an honor. I'm thankful for the life-long connections, the rich history and the opportunity to help guide Tempe’s bright future."