AZCEND honors Frank Narducci with 2024 Tracey Washington Spirit Award
Frank Narducci has been selected to receive the 2024 Tracey Washington Spirit Award from AZCEND in honor of his service to the community.
Tracey Washington served as the Food Bank Manager at AZCEND for 14 years changing the lives of many in our community. Tracey respected people, understood people and was committed to serving people. The significant impact he made on everyone he knew inspired his colleagues at AZCEND to create the Tracey Washington Spirit Award in his memory.
Recipients of the award embody the core values at AZCEND: integrity, compassion, hope, excellence and respect. Nominees were evaluated by their impact in the community, dedication of time and energy and a level of volunteerism along with their ability to serve as a role model, demonstrate the core values of AZCEND and honor others with dignity and respect.
Past recipients include Ernie Serrano, Mayor Kevin Hartke, the Chandler Compadres and Nancy Marion.
“We are thrilled to celebrate Frank, his service in our community and innovative leadership,” stated Trinity Donovan, CEO of AZCEND. “He captures the values of AZCEND on every level as he serves with passion and integrity.”
Mr. Narducci serves as the Superintendent leading the A-rated, Chandler Unified School District. The district is Arizona’s second largest school district, with over 42,000 students and 5,200 employees.
Spirit of AZCEND Gala
The award will be presented to Mr. Narducci during the 8th Annual Spirit of AZCEND Gala on Friday, October 11 at the Marriott, 1600 S. Price Road in Chandler.
Festivities will include dinner, casino games and a dynamic program. “Attendees will be inspired by the lives that have been changed through the powerful intervention of food, safe shelter and intensive one-on-one coaching,” stated Shelley Nelson, Development Director at AZCEND.
Frank Narducci
Prior to his selection as Superintendent in January 2022, Mr. Narducci served as Interim Superintendent of Schools from July 1 – December 31, 2021. He has served the Chandler community in his roles as a principal, director, and assistant superintendent for the past twenty-five years. Under his leadership, Chandler Unified School District’s Community Education Department was formed, schools have received both state and national recognition for academic excellence and innovative programming including: the National Blue-Ribbon Award; America’s Best; Arizona Education Foundation A+ Schools of Excellence; and selected school site to kick-off the National Department of Education’s America’s Promise Schools.
A dynamic and energetic leader, Mr. Narducci is well known for his work in the field of education.
About AZCEND
The mission of AZCEND is to “change lives by nourishing minds and bodies to create a connected, thriving community.” The organization provides more than 68,000 meals each month and strives to relieve suffering while helping those in need improve their quality of life.
“Beyond food, we help people discover what is possible so that they experience a brighter future than they may have imagined,” added Donovan. The food bank is oftentimes a gateway to additional services at AZCEND.
While food boxes, home-delivered meals and lunch are provided every weekday, AZCEND also offers a lifeline of essential programs and services. Safe, emergency lodging giving those experiencing homelessness the stability they need to get back on their feet. Assistance with rent and utilities keeps families together in their homes. AZCEND’s early childhood literacy programs help little ones succeed in Kindergarten and in life. Parenting classes equip adults to support their children. Activities for Seniors combat loneliness and isolation.
AZCEND has been providing help and hope to neighbors in need since 1966. This powerful intervention of food and shelter along with learning, growth and development is helping end the cycle of poverty. Learn more about AZCEND