Pictured left to right: Becky Smyth, Community Outreach Coordinator, Iwona "Evona" Snyder, Board Director, Wendy A. Conger, Board Director, Margaret Hepburn, CEO, Andrea Ruble, Board Vice Chair, Julie Brooks, Executive Assistant, Kraig Fullen, Board Director, Polly Gosa, Board Director, Susan Richards, Receptionist/Data Clerk
On November 14, 2025, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), Southern Arizona Chapter, hosted its 37th Annual National Philanthropy Day Awards ceremony at the El Conquistador Tucson. The event brought together nonprofit leaders, community partners, and volunteers to celebrate the people who strengthen Southern Arizona through service and generosity.
Throughout the ceremony, numerous volunteers and organizations were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the region. Among the top honorees was the Legacy Foundation of Southeast Arizona (LFSAZ), which received the Outstanding Foundation Philanthropist Award. A strong contingent of LFSAZ representatives attended, highlighting the organization’s deep commitment to community involvement.
LFSAZ CEO Margaret Hepburn accepted the award on behalf of the foundation, offering warm congratulations to all recipients. “It is an honor to be among such illustrious company,” she said. “It’s thrilling to receive such an award, and even more thrilling to receive it from an organization like AFP.”
Hepburn also spoke about LFSAZ’s longstanding partnership with the Red Cross, both locally and internationally, and expressed gratitude to the foundation’s “small but mighty” staff and volunteer board. She concluded by emphasizing that nonprofit organizations remain “the backbone of American culture,” embodying the spirit of community celebrated throughout the event.
