A San Tan Valley woman has been honored for her work with Pinal County Elections.

The Arizona Democracy Resilience Network and Mormon Women for Ethical Government Arizona recently recognized Susan Bustamante with the Unsung Hero Award at the 2025 Civic Champion Dinner.

Bustamante has served as a Pinal County election cycle temporary worker.

"Susan exemplifies the quiet dedication that makes our democratic system work," said Don Henninger, Republican co-director of the Arizona Democracy Resilience Network, according to a press release. "Election workers face unprecedented challenges today, yet they continue showing up with integrity and commitment to ensure our votes count and our voices matter."

The Unsung Hero Award “recognizes individuals who work behind the scenes to strengthen democratic processes without seeking recognition or acclaim,” the release continued.

Bustamante has been a poll worker since 2012, when she lived in Southern California. After moving to Las Vegas, she supported early voting during the 2016 and 2020 elections and served as a precinct caucus captain in Clark County, Navada.

"I keep coming back as a volunteer because I believe deeply in the power of our democracy, and the importance of every vote being counted," Bustamante stated in the release. "Serving at the polls and our election headquarters gives me a sense of purpose, knowing I'm helping my community and playing a role in something bigger than myself."

She has lived in San Tan Valley since 2021. Her work with Pinal County Elections includes helping with early ballot processing and tabulation.

“Election workers like Susan Bustamante represent the backbone of our democratic system," stated Jane Andersen, Arizona State Director for Mormon Women for Ethical Government. "Her commitment to accuracy, fairness, and transparency in our election process shows how everyday citizens can strengthen civic trust through dedicated service and a genuine commitment to our democratic principles."

The 2025 Civic Champion Dinner honored seven Arizonans in different categories, showcasing diverse approaches to strengthening democratic institutions.

The Arizona Democracy Resilience Network works to promote and strengthen trust in U.S. democracy and the capacity of communities to mitigate identity-based conflicts.

Mormon Women for Ethical Government is a nationwide grassroots organization that seeks to inspire women of faith to be “ambassadors of peace who transcend partisanship and courageously advocate for ethical government.”