Arizona Western College Foundation

Amazing news for AWC and our community!

🎉 Arizona Western College just landed a $5 million grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration, one of only 11 colleges nationwide picked for its Manufacturing in America initiative!

The funds will grow hands-on training at our Wellton Manufacturing Training Center, building a stronger skilled workforce for Yuma and La Paz County manufacturers. 🛠️

"We are not only strengthening small manufacturers, we are building careers, creating opportunities, and fueling innovation that will shape the future of our communities," said AWC President Dr. Reetika Dhawan.

Learn more: https://www.azwestern.edu/news/arizona-western-college-receives-5-million-grant-through-small-business-administration

It is our honor to announce Richard H. Schuman (1926–1993) as one of the 2026 AWC Hall of Fame inductees. Richard was a transformative community leader whose lifelong commitment to public service opened the doors of higher education for countless students in Yuma County. His vision and leadership were key to the creation of Arizona Western College, a lasting legacy that continues to benefit the community today. How has AWC made a difference in your life? Arizona Western College

We’re thrilled to announce that Luis Barajas has been chosen as one of the 2026 AWC Hall of Fame inductees. Luis’s connection to AWC spans decades, beginning as a student‑athlete in the 1960s and evolving into key leadership roles, including Director of Financial Aid, Veterans Programs, and later Construction Trades. He contributed to major institutional milestones, served on important committees, and supported the AWC Foundation as a board member. His dedication has been recognized through multiple awards, and he has also shared his expertise through teaching courses such as Introduction to Education and Spanish. If Luis has made a positive impact on your life, we invite you to share your story!

Thank you to our 3-time Presenting Sponsor, EcoEnergy Solutions. Because of partners like you, we can continue supporting students, programs, and opportunities that make a lasting impact in our community. Your commitment to the AWC Foundation Schoolhouse Soiree on October 2 is greatly appreciated!! Hall of Fame announcement and link to purchase tickets coming soon.

Congratulations to our AWC Foundation Nursing Scholarship Recipients!
These students are pursuing careers dedicated to caring for others, improving lives, and strengthening the future of healthcare in our communities. Through the generosity of our donors, scholarships help remove financial barriers and allow these future nurses to focus on achieving their educational and professional goals. Arizona Western College

Welcome, Dr. Kilani!

We recently welcomed Dr. Shadi Kilani, AWC's new Executive Vice President of the Arizona Western Entrepreneurial College, to Yuma. Please join us in congratulating him on a strong start and welcoming him into our community!

Dr. Kilani brings 20+ years of experience in higher education, healthcare, and workforce development, plus a background in medicine that's already shaping how we grow healthcare education here.

Welcome to the Matador family, Dr. Kilani! 🎉
In case you missed it, read more: https://www.azwestern.edu/news/awc-names-dr-shadi-kilani-executive-vice-president-entrepreneurial-college

Congratulations to the recipients of some of the AWC Foundation Transfer Scholarships! We are proud to support students as they take the next step in their educational journey and transfer to continue pursuing their academic and career goals. Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have earned this well-deserved recognition. Arizona Western College

Last month, Arizona Western College hosted an Electrical Summer Camp at the Wellton Campus for students ages 15–18 interested in exploring careers in the electrical field.

Throughout the week, students gained valuable hands-on experience learning 4-way switch wiring, split outlet wiring, electrical motor controls, and other foundational electrical skills. Working with industry-standard tools and equipment, they developed practical knowledge while building confidence in a supportive learning environment.

This opportunity was made possible through grant funding administered by the Arizona Western College Foundation, which manages resources that support innovative educational programs, workforce development initiatives, and student success opportunities across the college district. By overseeing and stewarding these grant funds, the Foundation helps connect students with meaningful career exploration experiences that prepare them for in-demand industries.

To help set them up for success, lunch was provided each day, and every participant received an apprentice electrical tool kit to use during the camp and take home upon completion.

One student, 15-year-old Jolene Drake, shared:

“This camp taught me a lot more than I expected. I enjoyed learning how electrical systems work and getting hands-on experience wiring switches and motor controls. The best part was being able to use real tools and learn skills that I can use in the future.”

It was inspiring to see these young learners discover new talents, gain confidence, and explore rewarding career opportunities in the skilled trades. Programs like this are critical to developing our future workforce and creating pathways to high-demand careers.

Thank you to the instructors, staff, and industry partners who made this incredible opportunity possible. The future looks bright for these aspiring electricians!

Happy 4th of July! As we celebrate 250 years of freedom and independence, we are reminded of the power of community, growth, and opportunity. Wishing all of our students, alumni, board members, and friends a safe and joyful Independence Day with family and loved ones!