07/17/2025 | Press release | Archived content
July 17, 2025
The Gabe Zimmerman Public Service Awards, named after the Community Outreach Director whose life was taken in a mass shooting in 2011 at a "Congress on Your Corner" event, are a collaborative effort between CFA, the Zimmerman family, and Arizona City and County Managers Association. They highlight the role of nonelected public servants in solving problems and making a tangible difference in people's lives.
"The Gabe Zimmerman Public Service Awards celebrate the public servants who are critical to Arizona's continued success," said Dr. Sybil Francis, CFA Chair, President & CEO. "Their work is the backbone of effective governance and community well-being. By honoring their dedication and impact, we hope others are inspired to elevate the value of public service in building The Arizona We Want."
Center for the Future of Arizona presented Rosa with the Community Builder Award for large cities. The award recognizes people who advance community pride and connection and show transformative leadership skills. According to Center for the Future of Arizona, "As Tempe's first female City Manager, Rosa has driven innovation and equity across city operations, leading efforts in public health, data-driven governance, and anti-discrimination policy."
Her trailblazing career exemplifies a lifelong commitment to equity, innovation, and excellence in local government.
"Rosa Inchausti exemplifies responsive, community-driven leadership," said Mayor Corey Woods. "She genuinely cares about the people of Tempe-both the community and city employees-and leads with empathy and integrity. She also strives to find new and better ways to resolve some of the nation's most difficult issues. Tempe is fortunate to have her as our city manager."
Nominees were judged on the following criteria:
Rosa's visionary leadership exemplifies innovation, resilience, and a deep commitment to creating a thriving, healthy, and historically rich Tempe. Some of her accomplishments include:
Center for the Future of Arizona brings Arizonans together to create a stronger and brighter future for our state. We listen to Arizonans to learn what matters most to them, share trusted data about how Arizona is doing in those priority areas, bring critical issues to public attention, and work with communities and leaders to solve public problems.