Arizona Women’s Education & Employment (AWEE) President and CEO Marie Sullivan was among the inaugural recipients of recognition by the Phoenix Mercury and BBVA Compass on Bright Futures Woman of Inspiration Night – Everyday Women.

Sullivan, who was recognized at halftime of the Phoenix Mercury-Chicago Sky game at Talking Stick Resort Arena, has been at the helm of AWEE since 1997, changing lives through the dignity of work for more than 200,000 Arizonans as they prepare for, find and keep jobs. AWEE provides the tools for change, independence, self-reliance and community revitalization to advance Arizona’s workforce.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized for the incredible work the AWEE team has done so that families can stay together, become financially independent and contribute to the community,” Sullivan said.

2015 was a banner year for the preeminent nonprofit workforce development organization in Maricopa County as AWEE served 12,000 individuals, enrolled more than 10,000 women and men in its programs and placed 94 percent of participants in jobs.

“The Phoenix Mercury is about more than just basketball.  Our efforts on and off the court are about recognizing the inspiring members of our community, especially women, who are dedicated to breaking down barriers and instilling the belief in others that they can achieve success,” said Vince Kozar, vice president of Business Operations for the Phoenix Mercury. “We are thrilled to team up with BBVA to spotlight Marie and the great work she has done motivating others to invest in themselves and their futures.”