Tucson Standard

U.S. Representative Raúl M. Grijalva, a University of Arizona alumnus who represented Southern Arizona in Congress for over 20 years, passed away on Thursday at the age of 77 due to complications from cancer treatment, as announced by his office.

University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella expressed his condolences, recalling Grijalva as "a gracious and kind man" who was "a steadfast champion of the university's land-grant mission." Garimella noted that Grijalva left "an indelible mark on Arizona and beyond."

Thomas Volgy, a professor at the School of Government and Public Policy, shared memories of working alongside Grijalva during their time in local government. Volgy stated, "Raúl truly exemplified what it means to be in public service," emphasizing Grijalva's dedication to social justice and environmental progress.

Grijalva's career in politics began with his service on the Tucson Unified School District Governing Board starting in 1974 and continued with the Pima County Board of Supervisors from 1989. He was elected to Congress in 2002 and served for twelve terms. His tenure included leadership roles such as chairing the House Natural Resources Committee.

Throughout his political career, Grijalva focused on environmental issues, low-income communities, Native American sovereignty, and healthcare access. Notably, he contributed to bills related to the Grand Canyon's ancestral footprints and strengthening the Affordable Care Act.

Born in Pima County into a family involved in farming through the Bracero Program, Grijalva grew up understanding hard work's value. Adriana Grijalva, president of the Associated Students of the University of Arizona and a distant niece, remarked on how his life inspired her own path toward public service.

Grijalva attended Sunnyside High School before enrolling at U of A in 1967 where he participated actively in Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanos de Aztlán (MEChA). His involvement helped establish what became the Department of Mexican American Studies at U of A.

Grijalva earned his sociology degree from U of A in 1987 and later served as assistant dean for Hispanic student affairs. The legacy continues within his family; both daughters are U of A graduates along with his wife Ramona holding a master's degree there too.

Adriana highlighted how her uncle remained connected with students throughout his life: "He was always about people," she said—emphasizing that even outside politics or education circles—he consistently inspired others toward meaningful change-making endeavors themselves."