"Miriam...has been chosen 'Para-professional of the year' at Flanagan High School by her co-workers for many reasons. Maru is a caring woman who is eager and always willing to help out our exceptional education students that have various physical and mental disabilities. She is a dedicated worker who goes beyond her call of duty each and every day."

--Barbara Schwartz, ESE Teacher, Flanagan High School

"Celine asked us to write to you on her behalf to say a very special thank you for the lovely gift that you sent her. "

--Staff at CelineDion.com

"I have personally seen the reaction of our ESE students to Miriam. They truly love her. Her positive influences have made a significant difference in the self-esteem development and transitional preparation of all that she's worked with."

--Greg Griffith, Motivational Speaker and Teacher, Flanagan High School

"Maru always amazes and inspires me every day with her positive attitude, especially in light of the fact that she works with some of the school's most emotionally, mentally, and physically challenged students...some profoundly. Every time we interact, her personal philosophy of 'I am grateful for...' shows not only in words, but in actions. In today's complex, fast paced, ever changing world, it is rare to find someone who truly believes that every day and every one is a gift."

--Henry A. Rose, President, Falcon Foundation, Inc.

"Maru and I have shared our creative talents in brainstorming creative projects, as well as producing murals, banners, set designs for kid-made skits, and ongoing art activities for children ages 5-11. She is a peace-filled adult who believes in the power of possibility thinking."

--Jerome M. Davis, Supervisor, Griffin Elementary Before & After School Child Care

"Louise always appreciates seeing the work of people who are using the principles of self-healing and self-love to help heal their lives and the lives of others and to make the world a more beautiful place."

--Jodie Shull, Customer Care Assistant to Louise L. Hay

"Whether Miriam...is efficiently managing her formal duties as a professional in the classroom, or assisting students and teachers around the campus, her cheerfulness and dedication are always obvious for all stakeholders in the Flanagan community."

--Sharon H. Shaulis, Ed. D. Principal, Flanagan High School

"I have been a Speech Pathologist for 25 years and have worked with many teachers assistants thru the years. None have touched me with the sincerity and love for special students as Maru. She has a connection to our students that is contagious. They sense she is someone who cares and understands what they face in their daily lives. She is also a very strong advocate for students' rights and does this in a very positive manner. When you are around Maru, you can feel love, as she has a heart for people."

--Sheru L. WIlson, M.S./SLP, Speech Pathologist

"There is a fairy tale that tells the story of a girl named Cinderella who triumphs when a shoe fits her perfectly...and she lived happily ever after. Permit me to update the fable by proposing an incredible woman for 'a job' that fits her to a 'T' - TUTOR. Her name is Maru Arvesu. She meets all your requirements but she outperforms every one..."

--Terry T. Sherman, Terry & Friends