Maria L. Urquides, Class of 1926
TUSD Educator, Administrator

A native Tucsonan, Maria attended Tucson High School from 1922-1926 where she was active in athletics, music and dramatics. She attended Tempe State Teachers College and returned to teach in Tucson while attending the University of Arizona from which received a BA degree in 1946 and her master’s degree in 1956. She did graduate study at the University of California and the National University of Mexico. She has been a teacher or an administrator in Tucson Public Schools for over 40 years. As a member, advisor or executive she has served with distinction on numerous local, state and national educational associations. Honors she has garnered include the NEA Award for Distinguished Service, the League of American Women for Distinguished Citizen Award. On December 4, 1977 the T.U.S.D. dedicated the Maria L. Urquides Adaptive Education School in her honor. In 1938 the University of Arizona conferred upon Maria Urquides the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws. This vibrant lady is always ready to lend-a-hand.