The T-Bird Times is a digital newsletter, which is published on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month by the Office of Student Life & Leadership. If you'd like to have your event or announcement included, please click this button to be directed to a Google Form
Graduation 2025: Deadline to apply - March 1
Are you ready to graduate? Congratulations! Don't forget--you have to apply for graduation. Deadline: March 1.
Please review answers to common questions about graduation and commencement by visiting this link. You can also contact ceremonies@mesacc.edu to answer your questions.
Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Desert Financial Arena | Arizona State University
600 East Veterans Way, Tempe, AZ 85281
Honors Open House
January 27-31
Honors Achievement Award: Open House Learn more about the scholarship program, meet the Honors Staff, and enjoy FREE SNACKS! Earn up to $500!
Southern & Dobson Office: Building: KSC 35S, 175 (480) 461-7079
Mon - Fri from 8:00am - 4pm
Red Mountain Office: Building: DW 135 (480) 654-7820
Mon - Thu from 8:00am - 1pm
Questions? Visit the Honors website (www.mesacc.edu/honors), stop by our offices, or contact us.
Honors Contract Workshop
Do you need help with your Honors contract? The MCC Honors Program is offering workshops to help you find a topic, understand project requirements, and fill out your contract.
Please note: you must have the instructor's permission to do an Honors Contract in their class.
Tues, January 28th | Southern & Dobson (KSC 35S, 175) : 1:00 pm - 2:00pm
Tues, February 4th | Red Mountain (RDM-DW, 135) : 12:00P - 1:00P
Wed. February 5th | Southern & Dobson (KSC 35S, 175) : 1:00P - 2:00P
Thu. February 13th | Virtual: https://maricopa.webex.com/meet/dhenney1 : 7:30P - 8:30P
Questions? Visit the Honors website (www.mesacc.edu/honors), stop by our offices, or contact us.
STUDENT SUCCESS WORKSHOPS
The Foundations for Student Success is offering student success workshops during the fall semester. Workshops are free and are conducted both online and in person. These sessions are open to all students. For more information, please visit this site.
*The Thunderbird Think Tank is located adjacent to the Testing Center on the Southern & Dobson campus.
Topic: Making Your Brain Work for You
1/28/25 | 12:00 pm | Thunderbird Think Tank (S/D)
1/31/25| 10:00 AM PM | Online: Click here
Topic: P.O.W.E.R. of Math Study Skills
2/12/25 | 1:30 pm | Thunderbird Think Tank (S/D)
2/14/25| 10:00 AM PM | Online: Click here
Monarch Tagging Workshop
Tuesday, January 28 | 11 am-12:30 pm | Southern/Dobson Clocktower
Join us for our workshop! Learn about how and why monarch butterflies are caught and tagged! (By doing it yourself!)
This event takes place on Tuesday, January 28th, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm, and we'll be meeting at the Southern & Dobson Clocktower. See you there!
Presentation: U.S. Presidential Assasssinations
Wednesday, January 29 | 12:00-1:00 pm | SC-11E (SoDo campus)
Virtual link to join
Join us for an engaging discussion on the history, politics, and security challenges of presidential assassinations, exploring their immediate and lasting impacts on national policy, public perception, and global relations.
Together, we'll explore the history behind presidential assassinations, the political fallout, and the security challenges they raised. Don’t miss out on this chance to engage with a topic that blends intrigue, history, and global politics!
Presenters: Dr. Brian Dille, Political Science
Courtney Smith, History
Zee Mamela, Administration of Justice Studies
Club Rush & Volunteerfest
Red Mountain: January 30 | 10 am-1 pm (M200)
Thunderbirds, start your engines!
The Spring 2025 Club Rush was a big hit at Southern and Dobson, but if you missed it, you have another chance! Join us at the Red Mountain campus for another Mario Kart Race! Students will zoom around the Mario Kart tracks as they explore student-led clubs, campus resources, and volunteer opportunities through the Center for Community and Civic Engagement and off-campus agencies.
Participants will enjoy complimentary pizza from "MCC Luigi Pizza Kitchen" by completing their "Race Map," spin the prize wheel for MCC swag, and will also have the chance to win a gift card to Fat Cats.
John Lewis & Malcolm X: Profiles in Peace and Nonviolence
The Arizona Interfaith Movement and Mesa Community College Present:
A Black History Month Celebration: Honoring the Lives of Congressman John Lewis and Malcolm X
Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring distinguished speakers, including MCC faculty member Professor Rod Golden, as we celebrate the legacies of the late Congressman John Lewis and the legendary Malcolm X.
Event Details
Date: Monday, February 3rd
Time: 9:00 AM 12:00 PM
Location: Southern & Dobson Campus, Room SC11E
This session will also be streamed and recorded via Zoom.
RSVP: Visit AZIFM.org to reserve your spot today!
Don't miss this opportunity to reflect on their impactful contributions to civil rights, leadership, and social justice.
Speakers include: Rev. Dr. Helen Hunter, Ahmad Daniels, Mark Klym, John Akram, Rod Golden
February Blood Drives
February 4 | 10 am-1:30 pm | Bloodmobile at Red Mountain
February 11-12 | 10 am-1:30 pm | Student Lounge at SoDo
Blood donations are critical need in our community. You can help by donating blood at any of our blood drives at MCC. Sign up to donate at either Red Mountain or Southern & Dobson. Sign up for your appointment at www.bloodhero.com using location code MCC. Walk-in appointments may also be available.
Astronomy Nights at MCC
MCC Astronomy Nights are held on the first Friday of the month during February, March, April, & May and September, October, November, & December. Cost is $6 per person, with some free family shows found at this link.
MCC Astronomy Nights include planetarium shows and telescope viewing. Planetarium shows occur rain or shine, but telescope viewing of the night sky is only offered when the sky is clear.
Planetarium shows run from 5:00-10:00 PM, with shows starting every hour. Click the links below to purchase tickets for the show in advance (required).
The Hot & Energetic Universe: February 7th, 2025
Spark: The Universe in Us: March 7th, 2025
Two Small Pieces of Glass: April 4th, 2025
Tour the Universe w/ Pink Floyd: May 2nd, 2025
Study Abroad Deadlines
Study abroad application deadlines are rapidly approaching! Anyone 18+ years of age is eligible to participate!
San Jose, Costa Rica - Application deadline: February 2, 2025
Fukuoka, Japan - Application deadline: February 2, 2025
Athlone, Ireland - Application deadline: March 1, 2025
England/France - Application deadline: March 1, 2025
Puerto Peñasco, Mexico - Application deadline: March 1, 2025
Namibia (Africa) - Application deadline: March 1, 2025
Apply early to avoid getting on a waitlist!!
Late applications will be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
For information on all of the summer study abroad programs, visit mesacc.edu/study-abroad.
Gilman Scholarship Workshops
The U.S. Department of State's Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program enables American undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grant funding to study and intern abroad through scholarships of up to $5,000. Students studying critical need languages are eligible for scholarships up to $8,000.
The next application deadline is Thursday, March 6, 2025 with awards announced in mid-May. Application will open in mid-January.
Learn about the eligibility requirements, benefits, and essay advising tips for the Gilman Scholarship Program!
Tuesday, February 4, 2025 | 1:30 pm
Google Meet: meet.google.com/ofr-piyd-jtn
Workshop Facilitators: Yvonne Schmidt, International Education & Nicole Bradley, Writing Center
For more information, reach out to: studyabroad@mesacc.edu!
We Care Wednesday
Wednesday, February 5 | 10 am-12 pm | Navajo Room
The next distributions of the semester takes place February 5 at the Southern & Dobson campus. All food distributions are free and open to the public. Distribution begins at 10 am and runs until 12 pm (while supplies last).
This distribution takes place in the Navajo Room and is walk-up service only. The next distribution at the Red Mountain campus is on February 19.
For a full schedule of WCW distributions for the spring semester, click here.
Pow Wow 101
February 5 | 12:00-1:30 pm | LB 145
Join us for the Pow Wow 101 Workshop and learn about the cultural traditions and significance of Pow Wows, proper etiquette, and the meaning behind various dances. Engage with student voices as they share how the Pow Wow contributes to their success. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding and appreciation of Native American culture! This workshop serves as preparation for the MCC Thunderbird Pow Wow, scheduled for Spring 2025. Everyone is welcome-Lunch will be served while supplies last.
Register for zoom link: http://bit.ly/3ScysI2. CAH takes place every Tuesday from 12-1:15 pm. See below for information about the upcoming workshops.
Center for Community and Civic Engagement
Working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference; promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes.
Join us for an inspiring and resource-packed event designed to empower students in their academic, personal, and professional journeys! Attendees will gain access to interactive workshops covering key areas such as financial literacy, self-advocacy, mental health, academic success and career readiness. Whether you're looking to build your personal brand, strengthen your resume, or master networking, this event has something for everyone.
This is more than just an event-it's an opportunity to find your purpose, grow your confidence, and build a supportive community to help you succeed in college and beyond. Don't miss out on the chance to invest in your future!
Student Empowerment Summit: Invest in Yourself-In the Class and Beyond
Friday, Feb 7 | 8 am-3 pm | Navajo Room at Southern/Dobson
What to Expect:
Workforce Development: Learn how to align your goals with actionable career strategies, including budgeting, resume building, and crafting the perfect elevator pitch.
Leadership and Self-Advocacy: Discover how to connect with instructors, map your values, and develop the confidence to lead and advocate for yourself.
Mental Health & Wellness: Understand emotional triggers, enhance emotional intelligence, and find balance between independence and interdependence.
Building Community: Create meaningful connections with academic advisors, student life offices, and peers while exploring opportunities like internships and transfer pathways to bachelor's programs.
Networking and Communication: Gain skills to nurture professional relationships, navigate formal and informal communication across cultures, and leverage your network for success.
Event is open to all students and lunch will be provided.
Thunderbird Athletics
Support the MCC Thunderbird Athletes at one of their upcoming HOME games
Jan 25 at 12:00 pm: Baseball vs. Arizona Christian University
Jan 25 at 2:00 pm: Women's basketball vs. Phoenix College
Jan 25 at 4:00 pm: Men's basketball vs. Phoenix College
Jan 28 at 2:00 pm: Baseball vs. Grand Canyon University
Jan 29 at 2:00 pm: Baseball vs. Benedictine University
Feb 1 at 12 and 2 pm: Softball vs. Pima Community College
Feb 1 at 2:00 pm: Women's basketball vs. South Mountain Community College
Feb 1 at 4:00 pm: Men's basketball vs. South Mountain Community College
Feb 4 at 1:00 and 3:00: Softball vs. South Mountain Community College
Feb 8 at 2:00 pm: Women's basketball vs. Chandler Gilbert Community College
Feb 8 at 4:00 pm: Men's basketball vs. Chandler Gilbert Community College
Feb 11 at 3:00 pm: Baseball vs. Glendale Community College
Feb 15 at 12:00 pm: Baseball vs. Scottsdale Community College
Feb 15 at 2:00 pm: Women's basketball vs. Glendale Community College
Feb 15 at 4:00 pm: Men's basketball vs. Glendale Community College
Celebrating 60 years of MCC
Let the celebration begin! Mesa Community College is celebrating its diamond anniversary in 2025, marking six decades of student success, academic growth, and community impact.
Commemorating this milestone, MCC has launched a dedicated website, mesacc.edu/60, featuring historical photos, success stories, and information about upcoming anniversary events and activities.
Throughout the 2025 calendar year, we invite you to continue to celebrate the 60th Anniversary and participate in honoring our legacy in the community.
Throwback Thorsday 1/9/25
Did you know that MCC’s roots go back to 809 W. Main Street in Mesa, where it operated as an extension of Phoenix College? The building on the left was built in 1911 and served MCC until 1965. The basement had classrooms, and the main room was a library. These days, it’s a gorgeous wedding venue.
Throwback Thorsday 1/16/25
Let's take a look at MCC's very first semester! What was it like? Well, on September 11, 1963, 330 students registered for classes at the Mesa Extension, marking the beginning of something amazing.
MCC started with a solid foundation in areas like Science & Math, Social Sciences, Business, Language Arts, and Physical Education. Students also had access to language courses including English, German, French creating the groundwork for the diverse programs we offer today.
It’s incredible to think how far we’ve come, and yet the same dedication to student success that started in 1963 still thrives today. Here’s to the legacy of all those who helped shape MCC into the vibrant community it is today!
Throwback Thorsday 1/23/25
Check out this stunning photo of the now MCC Theatre, recently shared with us by retired faculty member, taken inside a local Jason’s Deli!
Originally opening in 1978 as the Theatre Outback, the facility derived its name from the lack of buildings on the southern part of the campus at that time, making the area “out back” in regard to the S&D campus. No longer “out back," as the MCC campus has grown in size over the years, the facility is now simply known as the MCC Theatre. For more than 40 years, the 270 seat theatre has fostered the budding careers of thousands of students, welcomed community forums, hosted a President of the United States and two Region VIII Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival Conferences -- a third will be hosted Feb. 11-15, 2025.
Immerse yourself in the Arts at MCC -- learn about our programs, venues and shows at mesacc.edu/arts
ONGOING PROGRAMS, SERVICES, AND EVENTS
We are always grateful for donations to the Mesa Market! Feel free to drop off your donations to the Mesa Market at either campus.
We Care Wednesday is a fresh food distribution that takes place on the first and third Wednesday of each month at Southern and Dobson and Red Mountain respectively. Click here for the dates and time of each distribution.
MESA MARKET
FOOD & HYGIENE PRODUCTS FOR STUDENTS
The Mesa Market is a food and hygiene pantry for MCC students. Any student is eligible to visit the Mesa Market for food and hygiene products for free. Hours may vary throughout the semester. Please call for specifics.
Southern and Dobson Campus
The Mesa Market at Southern/Dobson campus is located in KSC 35S, and can be reached at 480-461-7948
Red Mountain Campus
The Mesa Market at Red Mountain is located in Palo Verde 111, and can be reached at 480-654-7775.
MCC Fitness Center Memberships
Start the new semester STRONG! Did you know you can sign up for a membership to the MCC Fitness Centers? They provide membership access to students, employees, and the community, and a membership gives you access to both the Southern and Dobson and the Red Mountain campus fitness centers. Membership includes cardio and strength training equipment, fitness tools/accessories, access to drop in group fitness classes, personal training consultation and 1 complementary session, knowledgeable staff, day use lockers, clean facilities, and no crowds!
Students = $50 per semester or $25 for half semester
Employees = $25 per semester
Also available: Community Ed memberships, PED 101/PED 115 classes for credit and a variety of fitness classes. Visit the Fitness Center website for a schedule and more information.
For a FREE ONE WEEK Guest Pass to the MCC Fitness Center, click this link.
Follow the Student Life Instagram for your chance to win Thorsday prizes! @mccthunderbirds
What is THORSDAY?
Thor the Thunderbird is the MCC mascot.
The Thunderbird is a legendary creature in certain North American indigenous peoples' history and culture.
Thursday, "Thor's day" is named after the hammer-wielding Norse god of thunder, strength, & protection...THOR.
Therefore, Thursdays at MCC are now know as THORSDAY!
Wear your favorite Thunderbird gear every Thorsday, greet your friends with "Happy Thorsday," and find your own ways to celebrate your Thunderbird pride. Do you have your Thorsday shirt? Stop by Student Life!
For more information on Student Life, visit our website.
STUDENT LIFE & LEADERSHIP
Student Life is here to help you GET ENGAGED and GET CONNECTED at MCC.
Clubs & ASMCC Student Government
Campus Events
MCC Spirt (Thorsday!)
Leadership training
Multicultural Event Programming
Services such as free scantrons and discounted bus passes
Getting involved makes a HUGE difference in your MCC experience. Check out Student Life for more information on these opportunities. Visit us in KSC 35S at the SoDo campus or in Mesquite 210 at Red Mountain, or check out our Virtual Student Life Center for more information.