Former Gila County School Superintendent Armida Guerena Bittner will be one of four women to be recognized by the 2021 Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame, as Living Legacies. Bittner will be inducted on Thursday, May 6, at 3 p.m. online at www.azwhf.org.

According to the AZWHF, “The Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame pays tribute to the remarkable women whose commitment and contributions have played a significant role in the development and quality of life in Arizona.”

When it comes to education, Bittner makes a mark. Her extensive knowledge and proficiency in the field of education not only highlights her expertise, it shines a light on Globe, Ariz. as well.

“I started in education for the love of children,” said Bittner. With English as a second language, Bittner grew up in a time when Globe was highly segregated. Mexican and Italian families resided in a different part of town, with the creek separating ethnic communities from white communities. Her ability to pull from her past has aided in her quest to treat everyone with dignity and respect, assuming each student has the ability to learn and ask questions.

Bittner believes that every child deserves a quality education, and has advocated for the children of Globe-Miami throughout her career. As a lifelong social worker, she had fought for area youth and at times demanded that each young person gets a fair shot. Bittner taught school for years before being appointed Gila County Superintendent. She also founded Destiny School for students requiring a second chance. 

Bittner’s induction as a Living Legacy caught her off guard. She wasn’t expecting to be added to such an elite class of Arizona women. Of course this honor comes to no surprise to the many students she has influenced over the years as an outstanding educator and a pioneer in her field.