Take a look around. As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to show on campus and the mild winter is apparent, we are fortunate to live in Cochise County, which supports higher education. For that, we’re sincerely grateful!
This semester, we had the privilege of collaborating with high school educators from across the county to explore how we can elevate and reshape our education landscape. Rebecca McKay at the ASU Helios Decision Center for Educational Excellence provided information and data that allowed us to dissect and understand the unique educational framework in Cochise County. On these metrics, the data shared has been beneficial in identifying and bridging skills gaps to change the numbers and move the county forward. Since the meeting, we have already begun establishing better communication between the college and high schools to align curriculum content and expectations.
To all the K-12 who do so much to educate our friends, family, and neighbors, we are grateful!
Recently, Cochise College received accolades, securing a spot among the top 150 community colleges nationwide eligible for the Aspen Prize ($1,000,000 prize). We are one of only two community colleges in Arizona to receive this recognition this year. These honors underscore the college’s commitment to providing value, return on investment, workforce success and equity for students. For this, we are grateful!
As we prepare for Thanksgiving and the festive holiday season, we’re filled with gratitude for numerous blessings. Among them are the incredible faculty and staff at Cochise College, whose efforts to create new learning experiences for our students are truly inspiring.
We’re also thankful to community partners for their role in helping the college fulfill its lofty mission and vision. Together, we are making a difference!
We’re incredibly grateful for the students. They infuse the college with vitality, innovation, service and collaboration. This year, students have been at the forefront of numerous community engagement activities, including the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Pit Fire Pottery Festival, Haunted Union, Bisbee 1000, Trunk n’ Treat and Dia de los Muertos cultural events.
It is their enthusiasm and participation that connect us to the community. Not only are they the reason we’re here, it’s because of them that the faculty and staff of Cochise College remain committed to the mission of providing accessible educational opportunities that support social responsibility, meaningful careers, and lifelong learning.
My heartfelt thanks go out to the Cochise County community for your remarkable generosity, support, and trust in your community college. Wishing everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!
J.D. ROTTWEILER, Ph.D., is president of Cochise College. Contact him at jdr@cochise.edu.