For Immediate Release: March 10, 2008
Contact: Karen Clifton
Phone: (559) 445-5532

Sacramento, CA - Assemblymember Juan Arambula (D-Fresno) has named Valley high school counselor, Diana Rodriquez, as "Woman of the Year" for the Thirty-First Assembly District. Arambula honored Rodriquez during a special ceremony today on the California Assembly Floor.

"Diana has been a positive influence in the lives of her students and it is evident when you talk to the many students she has helped throughout her career. Her dedication to our young people is incredible and deserves to be recognized," said Arambula.

Rodriquez has worked for Fresno Unified School District for more than 35 years starting her career as a teacher and continued her dedication to education through her work as an academic counselor. After seeing the need for representation of Central Valley students at Ivy League schools, Rodriquez created Sunnyside High School’s Ivy League College Tours, which gives underprivileged students a chance to visit and apply for outstanding colleges and universities. Hundreds of students have participated in the tours since it was created 17 years ago and Rodriquez has helped more than 60 students get accepted into Ivy League Colleges. According to Rodriquez, Fresno Unified plans to keep the program going after she retires.

"Diana has been a strong force in providing access to higher education to a population of children that is well underserved and has always made sure the educational needs of our children are met," said Assemblymember Arambula. "She has proven to be a reliable source and a fine role model to the people, and women, of this community."

The celebration is an annual recognition of women from throughout the State of California. Each Assemblymember selects one "Woman of the Year" to participate in the ceremony.