Are Your Dreams Too Small? Inspiration From the Most Impactful Arizonan Ever
In this conversation, the most impactful Arizonan of All-Time, Harry Mitchell, shares his journey from teaching to public service, highlighting the importance of passion, mentorship, and community engagement. He discusses his experiences as a council member and mayor of Tempe, emphasizing the need for collaboration across political divides and the impact of initiatives like the Sister City program, Fiesta Bowl, Super Bowl and massive downtown redevelopment. Mitchell reflects on his advocacy for the disabled community and his continued work in the field of Alzheimer's care, showcasing a life dedicated to service and leadership.
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Takeaways:
Harry Mitchell's journey emphasizes the importance of passion in one's career.
Mentorship played a crucial role in shaping Mitchell's interest in government.
Engaging students in local government fosters a deeper understanding of civic responsibility.
Building confidence in leadership comes from experience and community support.
Visionary leadership can transform a city's landscape and community spirit.
Collaboration across political lines is essential for successful governance.
Advocacy for marginalized communities is a vital aspect of public service.
Sister City programs enhance cultural understanding
Community events like the Fiesta Bowl can drive economic growth and engagement.
Retirement does not mean the end of service; continued advocacy is important.
Harry Mitchell
Politician/Teacher/Humanitarian
Harry Mitchell is considered the most impactful Arizonan of All-Time. He has taught government to thousands of high school students and has a storied career in public service. As a Tempe council member and mayor for 24 years, he collaborated across political divides to create the Sister City program, bring the Fiesta Bowl to national prominence, the NFL Cardinals and a Super Bowl to Tempe, and redeveloped downtown Tempe into a vibrant destination. He also helped land Chase Bank and America West Airlines employment centers in Tempe. Mitchell was also a strong advocate for the disabled community and in retirement continues his work in the field of supporting families with members dealing with memory issues.
Born July 18, 1940 in Tempe, AZ
Graduated Tempe (AZ) High School 1958
Bachelor of Political Science and Master's of Public Administration Arizona State University
Government teacher, Tempe High School, 1964-1992
Tempe City Council 1970-1978
Tempe Mayor 1978-1994
Arizona State Senator 1999-2006
United States Congressman 2007-2011
Mitchell and his wife, Marianne, have two children. Their son, Mark Mitchell, is a former mayor of Tempe. Other politically active members of his family have included his brother, Robert Mitchell, who served as mayor and council member of Casa Grande, and his grandfather, William W. Mitchell Sr., who served as a state legislator. Mitchell is a Catholic. Marianne Mitchell died on May 27, 2019, after a years-long battle with Alzheimer's disease, the city of Tempe announced on May 29. She was 7…