Being a mom means holding many titles — caretaker, coach, listener, problem-solver. It’s a full-time job grounded in love, patience, and strength. This Mother’s Day, we’re honoring the women who mother and lead, and who use their experiences to shape better schools, communities, and futures for all of us.
We asked a few of them two questions:
How has being a mom made you a better public official or leader?
What advice would you give to other moms thinking of doing something brave?
Kris Mayes | Arizona Attorney General
“Being a mom gives me a daily, personal reminder of what’s at stake. It fuels my commitment to protect Arizona families, to fight for fairness under the law, and to leave behind a state—and a democracy—our kids can be proud of.”
“If you’re feeling the call to step up, listen to it. Moms bring a fierce kind of strength to leadership—our perspective is powerful, and our courage is exactly what this moment demands.”
Briona Parkinson | Political & Legislative Director, AFSCME Arizona
“Being a mom has made me a stronger leader because motherhood, like politics, is both rewarding and challenging. Each day brings unexpected situations, but also meaningful opportunities to grow, adapt, and connect. The resilience and empathy I’ve developed as a mother have directly shaped my leadership style.”
“Go for it. Your experience as a mother is powerful. The ability to put others before yourself is a core aspect of servant leadership—something many people never fully develop. Don’t underestimate the value of what you bring to the table.“
Natalie Luna Rose | TUSD Governing Board Member
“As a mom, I know the hope behind every school drop-off. I’m fighting to give every child a safe, strong education and a brighter future.”
“You already do brave things every day—trust that strength. The world needs your voice, your heart, and your courage. You are more powerful than you know.”
Linnette Corrales | Training Director, Arizona List
“As a mom, I understand the deep need for radical change needed to ensure the success of all the children in the state of Arizona and our country, and at Arizona List were are making that happen.”
“I encourage other moms to be brave and remember that bravery doesn’t come when you aren’t scared, but when you are and do things anyway. “
Aubrey Sonderegger | Coconino County Recorder
“Being a mom was the best job training I can think of. I was preparing to be a high functioning scheduler, a conflict mediator, and a compassionate listener without even knowing it every day while I made school lunches and navigated bedtime.”
“Build a community and lean on your team. None of us can do any of this alone but we all need to do what we can to support each other and do good work. We are stronger together.”
Athena Salman | Arizona Director, Reproductive Freedom for All
“As a mom, I am invited to view the world through the lens of my daughters, empathize with their experiences, and guide them as they navigate new challenges and adventures every day. The patience and love that goes into parenting has grounded me deeper in compassion and focus as a leader. I am so grateful to be their mom.”
“You are the change you have been waiting for, and no one will fight with more passion and determination than a mother fighting for her children’s future. If you are struggling, always remember that every action, no matter how small, is part of a greater movement that makes a difference.”
Nikki Check | Yavapai BOS Dist. 3
“I hold myself to a higher level of integrity, both in my conduct and also in policy making, because I know my son is looking up to me.”
“When I ran my first big race, my son was a toddler. A wise woman said to me – kids will be flexible with you if you are flexible with them. That encouragement has led not only to a successful campaign, but also a great relationship with my son guided by a give and take mentality. Together, you can do it and so can they!“
Lizbeth Vasquez | Yuma Outreach, Arizona List
“As a mom, I’m driven by my son’s future and passionate about electing women who truly understand and represent mothers like me.”