Chicanos Por La Causa will present Dr. Cecilia Rosales with its inaugural Legacy for Change Award for her lifelong efforts in public health, education, and activism.

Rosales played a key role implementing multiple initiatives that increased access to essential health services among underserved population including a border vaccination program, a mobile health unit, and serving on the U.S.-Mexico Border Health Commission.

“As a mentor and visionary leader, Dr. Cecilia Rosales’ work transcends borders to drive positive change in creating healthier, stronger communities at the local, statewide, national, and international level,” said Alicia Nuñez, CPLC President and CEO.

Rosales previously was awarded with CPLC’s Cause for Change Award in 2016 for her commitment to ensuring underserved families throughout Southern Arizona receive excellent health care. She served on the CPLC board through her retirement in 2024, following 18 years as a professor and researcher at the University of Arizona.

“I am deeply honored to be the first recipient of the Legacy of Change Award from Chicanos Por La Causa. This recognition is a testament to the collective work of so many who have dedicated their lives to advocating for public health, particularly for underserved communities along the borderlands,” said Dr. Rosales. “I accept this award not just for myself, but for all those who continue to fight for equity, justice, and the well-being of our Latino community. Thank you for this incredible honor, which inspires me to keep pushing forward in our shared mission.”

Rosales will be honored during a special celebration on Oct. 4 in Phoenix. Commedian, actor and film producer John Leguizamo and former U.S. Secretary of Labor Tom Perez also will be recognized as this year’s Cause for Change honorees. The special celebration is presented by APS and in collaboration with HUB International, DLA Piper, Southwest Airlines, AZDC Consulting, SRP, Sunhawk Consulting, United Healthcare, and Wells Fargo. 

Chicanos Por La Causa was formed in 1969 to fight discrimination against the Mexican American community. It has evolved to become one of the largest Latino nonprofits providing services to people of all backgrounds in six states. In the past year, CPLC impacted more than 1 million lives through more than 30 programs in health and human services, housing, education, economic development, and advocacy.