Cochise College has been selected to receive the state’s Career Preparedness Award, which recognizes exemplary efforts by a community college in advancing students’ career readiness.
This is the first year Arizona has participated in ACT’s national College and Career Readiness Campaign program, which began in 2013. Cochise College was selected in for the state honor in February, as determined by the ACT State Council, and will now be considered for the national award.
Cochise College students work on assignments in the Student Union Cafe on the Sierra Vista Campus.
“This recognition by ACT represents the trifecta of awards the college has received recently,” said Cochise College president J.D. Rottweiler. “From being ranked among the 100 most affordable community colleges to SmartAsset’s determination that we’re the third best community college in the country, when you bring in ACT’s recognition of our strong efforts in career preparation and readiness, these honors demonstrate our desire for the college to meet its lofty mission of preparing students to become constructive citizens, find meaningful careers, and engage in the lifelong learning process.”
The state council chose Cochise College based on its student retention, persistence and graduation rates, as well as strong programs designed to assist students in career paths, internships and employment opportunities.
Since 2013, ACT has recognized the work of students, schools and employers in pursuing the goals of college and career readiness. The ACT College and Career Readiness Campaign awards recognize exemplary efforts in four categories: Student Readiness Award (a high school senior), College and Career Transition Award (a high school), Career Preparedness Award (a community college), and Workplace Success Award (an employer).
The national exemplars are selected in each category among winners from each state, and they will be recognized at the National Gala on College and Career Readiness, hosted by ACT in Washington, D.C., in June.
“Preparing individuals for college and career success is no small task—and it’s never been more important,” according to ACT’s website. “This is why ACT is recognizing individuals and organizations who are making a positive impact on their communities through their efforts to advance college and career readiness.”