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HONORING THE LIFE OF MONICA CRIADO-CUEVAS
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HON. JIM COSTA
of california
in the house of representatives
Thursday, December 30, 2021
Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Monica Criado-Cuevas. Monica passed away on December 13, 2021. She was an inspiring woman, mother, mentor, wife, and cultural figure.
Monica was born on February 5, 1967 in Fresno, California, where she was raised. Monica was brought up from humble beginnings. Her parents worked as seasonal farmworkers, and she herself took on the same responsibility to support her family. This was no small feat for Monica. While working to become the first individual to ever graduate in her family, she worked long hours picking oranges, peaches, and grapes. Monica persevered and went on to earn her bachelor's degree at Fresno State and her master's degree from National University.
Monica worked for State Center Community College District for 23 years and became the Dean of Student Services and Counseling at Fresno City College, where she will be remembered for her care, kindness and commitment to the students and faculty. Monica was a beacon of light for many students that came from similar circumstances as herself. Her ability to recognize and understand the challenges that presented themselves in those students' lives allowed her to help them overcome their obstacles more effectively. She was adored by her students. In 2019, Monica was inducted into the Muro de Honor (Wall of Honor) for accomplished district alumni.
Monica's excellence extended far beyond her profession. She was a prominent cultural figure in the Latino community. Monica served as president of the Latino Educational Issues Roundtable and was secretary of the Hispanic Serving Institution Consortium of the San Joaquin Valley. Her heritage was captured vividly in her love for Folkloric dance, which she developed a deep passion for at a very early age. Monica would put audiences in awe while perfectly executing elaborate traditional dances at charitable events and gatherings.
Monica will be remembered for her profound impact on the lives of those she came across. It was her kindness, care, and charisma that allowed her to touch the hearts of everyone around her. We send out our thoughts and prayers to her family. She is survived by her mother, Alicia Criado; her sister Leticia Montes; children Michael, Matthew, and Miranda; and two granddaughters.
Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Monica Cuevas. Her service and contributions to the city of Fresno will be missed dearly. I join her family and friends in celebrating Monica's life.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 222
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