By J.D. Rottweiler, Ph.D.
Cochise College awarded more than 1,400 degrees and 445 certificates this past academic year and, on May 12, we celebrated the 58th Commencement on the Douglas Campus.
Commencement allows us to simultaneously celebrate our academic traditions, with pomp and circumstance and the dressing in caps and gowns, while we honor the achievements of our graduates. Commencement is a momentous occasion, a milestone in a student’s journey, a point of departure for each graduate as they “commence” in their next adventure. It’s also a time to reflect on the achievements of our alumni and their impact on our communities.
This year, the graduate processional was led by four alumni marshals, who started at Cochise College and went on to influence the future well-being of many in our communities.
Rosanna Alvarez Anderson (’03) grew up in Elfrida and found her passion in playing sports throughout high school. She chose Cochise College so she could work in athletics and develop a sense of independence while still feeling supported. She later earned a bachelor’s degree, becoming the first in her family with such a recognition. Rosanna has worked in the health and wellness industry for over 15 years, starting as an onsite health fitness instructor and progressing to a Corporate Onsite Health Coach. Recently she earned her master’s degree and remains grateful for her education at Cochise College. As she reminded us during her visit, she was a small-town girl with big dreams and Cochise College got her on her way.
Joel P. Borowiec (’78) is a seasoned trial lawyer and founding member of Borowiec & Borowiec PC in Sierra Vista. He grew up in Bisbee and graduated from Cochise College before earning degrees from the University of Arizona and Hamline University School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota. Joel is actively involved in the community and is a member of the Cochise College Foundation board of directors. He joined the foundation board because of his passion for education and the opportunities it provides for students. Joel works to increase scholarship opportunities for students looking to transfer to a university or gain valuable workforce skills.
George Montaño (’74) embodies the philosophy of community service through education. Over the course of 40 years, George served in various roles in the Douglas school district, from substitute teacher to athletic director and even as a school principal in retirement. Beyond his impressive career, George is known for his ability to inspire others to follow in his footsteps. His leadership skills, sound judgment, communication and unwavering belief in students have impacted many education leaders and teachers in Douglas. The current superintendent credits George’s influence as a factor in her decision to become a teacher.
Melissa Acosta Rodriguez (’00) played basketball for Cochise College and earned an associate degree with an emphasis in pre-education. She cherished the welcoming environment at the college, where she made lifelong friends, and appreciated the small class sizes that allowed instructors to provide individual attention and guidance. Melissa’s passion for education led her to earn a bachelor’s in education and a master’s in educational administration. She is now the principal at Douglas High School. During her career, she has served as an administrator at all three levels of K-12 education. Melissa is also actively involved with youth sports in Douglas. Education has played a significant role in Melissa’s family, with seven siblings attending Cochise College.
Cochise College is proud of its alumni and the impact they have on Cochise County, the State of Arizona, and the world. We look forward to seeing where this year’s graduates will go and what future roles they will play in the communities they serve.
Commencement is all about celebrating our graduates, our alumni, and our college. So, a big thank you to all who have dedicated themselves to helping build a strong future through the power of education. We couldn’t do it without you!
J.D. ROTTWEILER, Ph.D., is president of Cochise College. Contact him at jdr@cochise.edu.