Dear Alumni & Friends,

Enjoying on-campus life this past spring has been so energizing and a welcomed return to our dynamic normal. I’d like to share a few of our recent accomplishments and updates on some important initiatives in progress.

The college is moving forward on offering an MCC Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education: Dual Language degree as well as a Bachelor of Applied Science in Data Analytics and Programming. We are seeking approval of the Governing Board of the Maricopa County Community College District as well as our accrediting body, the Higher Learning Commission, so that we may begin offering bachelor’s degrees as early as fall 2023.

We’ve also added new certificates and degrees to meet the needs of business, industry and our students. The college celebrated the first graduates of the inaugural class of the Concurrent Enrollment Program between the MCC dental hygiene program and Northern Arizona University. The students graduated with an Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene from MCC and their Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from NAU.

Following the 20th Anniversary of MCC’s Red Mountain Campus, progress is underway on recommendations from the Red Mountain Vision Team including actions to establish a Health Science and Education Hub with the creation of an Allied Health Department to include Dental, Emergency Medical Technology, Health Care Technology Systems and Paramedicine programs. To lead this effort, we have hired Mary Boyce as Dean of Health Sciences, housed at the Red Mountain Campus.

In April the MCC American Indian Institute celebrated 35 years of service to indigenous students by gathering to honor the founders of the Institute, hear remarks from student leaders and participate in a native blessing and traditional dance.

As some of you know, I am retiring and MCC will have a new president starting July 1 – Dr. Tammy Robinson. My experience at MCC has been immensely rewarding, even through some challenging times. Working with staff, faculty, alumni and the community to put students on the path to success has been a privilege and honor.

With Thunderbird Spirit!
Lori M. Berquam, Ph.D.
Interim President, Mesa Community College