The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Like mother, like daughter.
These sayings come to mind when thinking about Anna Maria Matteucci, Phoenix Chapter ARCS Light 2013.  Anna Maria follows in the footsteps of her mother, Sandra Matteucci, who was named an ARCS Light in 2004.  This “Dynamic Duo” made ARCS history as the first mother-daughter ARCS Lights. 

Sandra joined the Phoenix Chapter in 1991 and has since then been a leader and a mentor in Phoenix and on the National Board.  She is currently a member of the National Council of Advisors.  In 2011, Sandra was named a Lifetime Achiever.  The Ralph Matteucci Endowment Award was established in 2004 in memory of her late husband.

Anna Maria joined ARCS in 2001 and, like her mother, has been active in the Phoenix Chapter and on the National Board.  She recently completed a two-year stint as President of the Phoenix Chapter, served as National ARCS Foundation VP of Communications and is currently National Treasurer.

The Matteucci home in Paradise Valley is affectionately known as the “ARCS Clubhouse.”  Sandra and Anna Maria host the annual ARCS Retreat in August, addressing events and luncheons, the General Meeting and Member Tea in February and any other event that needs a home.  (If you don’t have a hat to wear to the Tea, there is no worry because Sandra has all of her hats on a table in the foyer to be worn by anyone in need!)

These two Matteucci women, Sandra and Anna Maria, are the epitome of the ARCS Light.  Not only are they exemplary representatives of the standards of this prestigious award but, on a personal level, they are revered for their charm, wit, laughter, generosity and warmth.  We are honored that the “apple” stayed near the “tree” and that the “tree” is located in the Phoenix Chapter of ARCS.