Celebrating Excellence: The 2025 Community Excellence Award Winners

 

Now in their 29th year, the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Community Excellence Awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond to make a positive impact on the community, including our students and families. These awards feature GPS Community Excellence Award winners who embody our district's values of service, dedication, and leadership. Meet this year’s exceptional honorees.

 

Dr. Walter Delecki Elementary Educator of the Year - Morgan Pardy, P.E. Teacher, Mesquite Elementary, Harris Elementary

Morgan Pardy brings unmatched energy and positivity to Mesquite Elementary and Harris Elementary inspiring students, staff, and families alike. With more than 20 years in education, Mrs. Pardy is dedicated not only to teaching P.E., but also to promoting health, wellness, and a positive school culture. 

She leads by example, encouraging students to be their best, cheering them on, and ensuring everyone feels seen and valued. Her leadership extends district-wide as a champion of the Be Well initiative, connecting hundreds of staff members with tools and support to prioritize their own wellness.

Morgan’s impact is felt every day, whether it be a student celebrating a personal achievement, colleagues investing in themselves through Be Well, or families coming together at school events. 

“It really filled my bucket and reassured me that what I am doing matters and is making a difference,” she says of receiving the Community Excellence Award. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and heart for the GPS community truly inspire those around her.

 

Dr. Walter Delecki Secondary Educator of the Year - Stephanie Campbell, Band Director, Desert Ridge High

Stephanie Campbell has dedicated 26 years to teaching music in Gilbert Public Schools, shaping the Desert Ridge High School band program from the school’s opening to the thriving program it is today.

As band director, she inspires students to perform at their best, fostering both musical excellence and personal growth. Beyond the classroom, Stephanie serves as an active mentor to other band directors, presents at state conventions, and participates on music education boards, sharing her expertise and passion for the arts across the district and beyond. “It’s great being acknowledged for the work that I’m hopefully making a positive impact on students in the community,” she says.

Stephanie’s influence is felt in the relationships she builds and the joy she brings to students, families, and colleagues. She treasures seeing students achieve those “aha” moments, guiding them through both musical and personal growth over their high school years. Stephanie’s humor, dedication, and genuine care create a welcoming environment where students feel seen and supported. Her leadership and commitment to music education make a lasting impact on the Desert Ridge community and showcase the spirit of excellence that defines Gilbert Public Schools.

 

Mrs. Sharon Orr Support Staff of the Year - Mrs. Chen, Paraprofessional, Mesquite Junior High

Since 2001, Mrs. Chen has been a guiding presence at Mesquite Junior High, supporting students in special education classrooms and beyond. Her dedication extends across campus, where she takes the time to check in with every student, offer encouragement, and celebrate their efforts — no matter how small. Through initiatives like her Mustang Bucks rewards, Mrs. Chen helps students feel recognized for their achievements and teaches them lessons in kindness, patience, and responsibility. Her warm, patient approach ensures that every student knows they are seen, supported, and valued.

 

Mrs. Sheila Uggetti Volunteer of the Year – Marisa Andrade, Volunteer, Mesquite High School

Marisa Andrade embodies the heart of volunteerism at Mesquite High School. As Vice President of the school’s Football Booster Club, she ensures events run smoothly, athletes feel supported, and families are connected. From organizing senior banners and team meals to managing concessions and coordinating fundraisers, Marisa approaches every task with a smile and a genuine love for the students. “I’ve always believed that making a difference starts with showing up, caring, and doing what you can to lift others up,” says Andrade.

Marisa also fosters a sense of family and pride at Mesquite High, helping create experiences and memories that athletes carry long after graduating. She sees the impact in small, meaningful moments - from a player’s smile after a team meal, parents cheering together, to coaches getting the support they need. “Every effort, no matter how small, adds up to something meaningful,” Marisa adds. “Schools and communities thrive because of those everyday acts of kindness and teamwork.”

This year, in addition to our four GPS award winners, one of our students is being recognized for her contribution to the Gilbert community through the Gilbert Independent Young Hero Award. 

 

Gilbert Independent Young Hero Award - Zadi Perkins, Gilbert High School

Zadi Perkins has made an extraordinary impact at Gilbert High School through her leadership, compassion, and dedication to her peers. Whether spending lunch breaks with students in the special education program, leading Unified Dance, or guiding her classmates through Tiger Buddies and the Black Student Union, Zadi consistently goes above and beyond for her school. Her kindness and encouragement help students feel seen, supported, and empowered, leaving a lasting mark on the Gilbert High community. Zadi’s enthusiasm for helping others is matched only by her ability to connect, mentor, and uplift those around her.

Beyond her work with peers, Zadi is deeply involved in academics and student leadership. She serves as president of both the Black Student Union and the Tiger Tribune student newspaper, tutors through the National Honor Society, and participates in a range of extracurricular and volunteer activities, including working at a retirement community. Through all of this, Zadi demonstrates exceptional time management, empathy, and commitment. Her experiences have inspired her to pursue a career in special education and occupational therapy, ensuring she will continue making a meaningful difference for others for years to come.

All five award winners will be recognized and celebrated at the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Community Excellence Awards Banquet on November 12th, 2025.