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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College helped launch Shirley Arriaga dreams. Arriaga ‘15, a political newcomer who in September won the Democratic nomination for state representative (8th Hampden District), returned to her alma mater on Oct. 12 to speak as part of the “We the Women” series, which celebrates achievements by female leaders. “I am a planner, so education was always a top priority for me,” Arriaga said. “I planned to graduate high school, go to college, join the military and build my network and pursue a career in politics so I can help the greater good.” Speaking to an audience in the Student Learning Commons Forum, Arriaga said her educational journey started at STCC. “It has taken me very far, and I am not done yet,” she said. “I take (education) seriously and I hope I can inspire others to invest in themselves.” Raised in Chicopee by a single mother, Arriaga shared her story during the event moderated by Rosa Sanchez-Santiago, community outreach counselor at STCC and an alumna. Arriaga, a first-generation college student, is an educator and an Air Force veteran. While serving in the Air Force, she completed a bachelor’s at Elms College. She secured a full-time position as Veterans Liaison for Congressman Richard E. Neal. After several years of aiding constituents, she decided to further her education to continue serving her community in a greater capacity. At 29, she enrolled at Western New England School of law. Director of Community Engagement Lidya Rivera-Early called Arriaga a trailblazer who is helping to improve the community. “We were delighted that Shirley Arriaga spoke at STCC to our students, faculty and staff as well as the general public,” Rivera-Early said. “She was the first to speak in person since we started hosting the series two and a half years ago. She is a dynamic Latina and vital member of our community. We were excited she joined us as part of our Hispanic Heritage Month.” During the event, Arriaga spoke about being a woman in the male-dominated military. Outside of the military, she recalled a time she faced prejudice as a Hispanic woman. When knocking on doors while on the campaign trail, she encountered a person who made a prejudice comment based on the way she looks. “As females, or as the minority in your field … we have to show we’re equals, we’re capable and we’re willing, and we sometimes need to stand up for ourselves and not let others intimidate us because they will intimidate you if they can,” she said. “It makes you dig in deeper into your character and stand up for yourself.” As females, or as the minority in your field … we have to show we’re equals, we’re capable and we’re willing, and we sometimes need to stand up for ourselves and not let others intimidate us because they will intimidate you if they can.Shirley Arriaga, STCC Class of 2015 Asked what her most defining moment in her career so far has been, Arriaga noted she has achieved many milestones over the last couple of years. “Most recently, I won the Democratic nomination for state representative, 8th Hampden District, making me the first Hispanic female to even hold this position,” she said. “It’s incredible. It’s historic in nature.” But the achievement she might be most proud of in her career happened while in the Air Force. She completed “SERE” school (survival, evasion, resistance and escape training). SERE school trains aircrew members to survive no matter where they land. They learn several skills, including basic survival. “You go through a lot,” she said. “You become a prisoner of war. They teach you tactics. They try to break you, and sometimes they do break you. And that is tough, seeing grown men crying, grown men broken. And I say ‘men’ not because I’m being sexist, as I was the only female in my element. “I still get emotional over it. When I completed that training, and they raised the U.S. flag, and they said, ‘You made it. Now you have wings. No one can take those wings from you,’” she said. “It was one of the biggest moments in my career.” Arriaga highlighted the qualities she believes are important to inspire others: “Be honest and sincere,” she said. “We all can tell when someone is being genuine and someone is not,” she said. “If you can be who you are and you can inspire somebody to improve themselves, change themselves, believe in themselves, then we’re winning.” “We the Women” series continues Nov. 9 with a talk by Jacqueline M. Johnson, Ed.D. She is the chief operations officer of Caring Health Center, which serves the state’s largest refugee community. For more information about the series, contact Director of Community Engagement Lidya Rivera-Early at [email protected] or (413) 755-4787. Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333. About Springfield Technical Community College STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates. MEDIA CONTACT: Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, [email protected]

CHICOPEE— Democratic nominee for state representative in Chicopee’s 8th Hampden District, Shirley Arriaga, received House Ways and Means Chair Congressman Richard Neal’s endorsement. “I am proud to endorse Shirley Arriaga for state Representative. As a veteran, mother and member of my staff, I‘ve seen firsthand Shirley’s dedication and commitment to fighting for what she believes. Chicopee will be well represented in Boston by Shirley and I look forward to partnering with her to deliver for our communities”, said Chairman Richard Neal, MA 1st Congressional District. Shirley worked in Chairman Neal’s Springfield Office as Veterans Liaison. She worked with constituents on benefits claims, coordinating with federal and state agencies to ensure Veterans received what they earned. When Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico in 2017, Arriaga managed Congressman Neal’s efforts for those impacted. Constituent services were at the core of what Arriaga did during her time with Chairman Neal's office. “I am honored to receive the endorsement of Congressman Richard Neal. As a Veteran, I take immense pride in my work as a Veterans Advocate and a partner for all. During my time, I learned what the power of government can do when it works for the people. I look forward to working with Chairman Neal to deliver for the people of Chicopee,” said Shirley Arriaga, Democratic Nominee for 8th Hampden District. ### Shirley Arriaga is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Air Force. Use of her military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Departmentof the Air Force or the DepartmentofDefense.

https://www.masslive.com/news/2022/09/shirley-arriaga-wins-state-rep-race-in-chicopee-over-joel-mcauliffe.html

About me I am not a political insider. I’m a veteran , a Mom , a lifelong Chicopee resident , an educator at Chicopee High, and I've been passionately protecting and serving our community. More about me... Join my Campaign Volunteer DONATE TODAY My Mission Most politicians do what Boston State House leaders tell them to do; I’ll answer to you alone. I'm running because I love this city, and it would be my honor to continue my service as your next State Representative. More about my priorities... Stay up to date Subscribe to Our Newsletter I am interested in volunteering SUBMIT Thanks for submitting! Endorsements State Rep. Joseph Wagner "She is smart, has demonstrated a great work ethic and at the same time is authentic and humble. All of these strengths will serve her and, more importantly, the people of Chicopee well if she is elected to the Massachusetts House. I am convinced that Shirley Arriaga is the right person for the job." Attorney gen. maura healey "Shirley is a fighter, a dedicated mom, and a tireless advocate for our veterans. She has the experience and work ethic to effectively serve the Chicopee community, and that's why I'm proud to endorse her for State Representative in the 8th Hampden District." Congressman Richard neal "I am proud to endorse Shirley Arriaga for state Representative. As a veteran, mother and member of my staff, I‘ve seen firsthand Shirley’s dedication and commitment to fighting for what she believes. Chicopee will be well represented in Boston by Shirley and I look forward to partnering with her to deliver for our communities." Former mayor Rich kos "I support Shirley Arriaga for Chicopee State Representative. Shirley has the skills and abilities to be a leader at the State House and to deliver for Chicopee." Ma. women's political caucus "Shirley Arriaga is a rising star with proven leadership that we all need in public office. We are confident that Shirley Arriaga will act with care, urgency, and competence in 8th Hampden District. A vote for Shirley Arriaga is a vote for 8thHampden District’s brighter future." Nat. assoc. of social workers, MA "We are confident that Shirley Arriaga will bring her life experience and expertise to the State House, making her an effective and equity-minded leader for all people in the 8th Hampden district." Mass alliance "As a veteran who served in the US Air Force, Shirley Arriaga has shown her willingness to sacrifice for the people of MA. That commitment to service and integrity, to put us first, is why Mass Alliance was so proud to endorse Shirley. We know that she isn’t just another politician looking for the next job, but someone dedicated to the people of Chicopee." Former collector Asselin "I'm supporting Shirley because she'll continue the fight for Chicopee seniors." Emily's List "Arriaga has spent her career serving in the Air Force, enlisting when she was just 20 years old. She has proven to be a tenacious leader and we are confident she will demonstrate that same dedication while serving in the Massachusetts state House." Sheriff Nick Cocchi "I am thrilled to endorse Shirley Arriaga for State Representative. Shirley has the background and experience to have an immediate impact for the City of Chicopee. From her work with Congressman Neal to her military experience, Shirley has exactly what it takes to be an effective legislator. I know she will be a powerful voice for not only Chicopee but all of Western Mass. I am 100% behind her." Contact us Please don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. We would love to hear from you! Submit Thanks for submitting! Your voice is your vote. REGISTER TO VOTE WAYS TO VOTE Follow the campaign

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