Cochise College celebrated its Founders Day event bringing together students, faculty, staff, and the local community on Sept. 21, 2023.
Mrs. Lucia Spikes (right) donates a framed photo of the historic 1963 college groundbreaking ceremony to Dr. JD Rottweiler (left), college president.
The event began at the Sierra Vista Campus, where an exhibit titled “Capturing Commencement: Searching the Past for the Future” was displayed. The exhibition, curated by Ashlee Gray, the college’s library archivist, showcased many commencement programs over the years.
Later in the afternoon, at the Douglas Campus, Cochise College President Dr. J.D. Rottweiler shared a glimpse into the early beginnings of the college’s history. “Cochise College first opened its doors on Sept. 21, 1964, welcoming 441 students, which was more than the administrators expected,” Dr. Rottweiler said. “Today, we serve over 10,000 credit-bearing students.”
In October 1961, Cochise County citizens cast their votes in favor of establishing a community college district. A resounding mandate followed this decision in 1962 when the county approved funding for the college through a bond election. A year later, on Sept. 22, 1963, ground was broken for the Douglas Campus, a sprawling 540-acre facility distinguished by its unique architecture, scenic landscaping, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Mule and Chiricahua Mountains.
At the heart of Cochise College’s inception were its visionary founders: Dr. George Spikes (Douglas), John Caldwell (Bisbee and First Board President), Tom Fleetham (Willcox), Brainard Page (Tombstone), and Don Wattles (St. David). Their unwavering dedication to accessible education laid the cornerstone for this academic institution’s remarkable journey.
The Founders Day celebration was about reflecting on history and cherishing the alums’ experiences. Former students reminisced about their time at Cochise College, looking over old yearbooks, sharing stories of former instructors, and reminiscing about the challenges and triumphs of their academic pursuits. Among them was Mr. John F. Pintek, the college’s first student body president, who offered a few stories into what it was like to be a student during the college’s formative years.
Adding a sentimental touch to the occasion, Mrs. Lucia Spikes, the spouse of Dr. George Spikes, shared her framed remembrance of a precious photo and a newspaper clipping from the historic 1963 college groundbreaking ceremony. Her generous gift will find a cherished place in the college’s archives, preserving the memory of this moment for future generations.
Douglas Campus Dean Abe Villarreal thanked all attendees and announced an exciting addition to the campus with the Welcome Center. Dean Villarreal also shared news about next year’s 60th anniversary. He invited community members and alumni to contribute to the college’s archiving project of historical items. Photographs, memorabilia, and commencement programs are all sought after, and anyone willing to donate can do so by bringing their items or making a monetary contribution to the Cochise College Foundation. For further information, please call (520) 417-4735.