Tag: Coconino Community College

Police academy OK’d by CCC governing board

by Community Contributor • August 26, 2022 • Comments Off

The Coconino Community College District Governing Board approved agreements to begin a police academy and to start working on a partnership among community colleges in northern Arizona to share resources in order to better serve students.

During the Aug. 17 meeting, CCC Provost Dr. Nate Southerland presented an Oct. 3, 2022, start date for the first police academy at the college after possible program approval by the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board. The police academy will start off as non-credit, but after curriculum approval, the program will give recruits credits to apply toward associate and higher degrees.

Southerland then shared information with the board on an agreement in the works with Northland Pioneer College, Mohave Community College and Yavapai College to share resources to better serve students in northern Arizona. Among the items discussed would be the sharing of courses and other services to extend a more robust level of service to students in the region. Talks are ongoing and intergovernmental agreements are planned for the near future.

Students studying trades at CCC get $15K boost from Desert Financial Foundation

by Community Contributor • August 24, 2022 • Comments Off

During a recent tour, Coconino Community College students Nick Bartek and Erika Acuna showed employees of Desert Financial Credit Union and Foundation Board Members around the Fourth Street Campus. This location is where most of the college’s Career and Technical Education courses are taught, which gives students the skills needed to garner well-paying jobs quickly.

Bartek plans to continue his education at Arizona State University to study sustainable building practices. Acuna is working on her requirements to become a registered nurse.

“I learned so much here,” Bartek told the group. “I got the hands-on experience I needed, and I can’t thank CCC enough.”

“I’m the first generation in my family to go to college,” Acuna said, adding that she chose CCC because it was smaller, affordable, and offered her the space to excel in her studies.

CCC’s first Summer Bridge program achieves goals

by Community Contributor • August 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Nevaeh Talkalai, gaze strong, spoke to her peers so that they might get to know her and she them.

“I’m urban Native,” she said. “I took pride in being Navajo after a racism event and created an anti-racism coalition. I was born in Fort Defiance and lived mostly in Window Rock growing up.”

She recently graduated from Northland Preparatory Academy in Flagstaff and plans on attending university in Michigan. Her goal: To be an advocate and a counselor for Native Americans.

Talkalai was among more than 40 students participating Coconino Community College’s inaugural Summer Bridge program, created as part a larger program devoted to “Strengthening Indigenous Student Success.” The purpose of the SISS program is to improve the success of Native American students attending CCC.

Back Family of Dr. Nat White establishes fellowship with CCC Foundation

by Community Contributor • August 8, 2022 • Comments Off

If it hadn’t been for the caring of a gifted teacher, Dr. Nat White might not have gone to graduate school and ended up an astronomer at Lowell Observatory.

He hadn’t been known for good grades during his educational journey, but his astronomy teacher, after watching White fix a telescope and love doing it, got him to be considered for a graduate program, and if he did all right in his coursework, the graduate program would consider him.

“His stepping out of the box to get this waif pointed in a direction that was useful made a difference in my life,” Dr. White said, and the rest has been his history.

Interim president selected for CCC

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2022 • Comments Off

The District Governing Board for Coconino Community College has selected Dr. Christal M. Albrecht to serve as Interim President while the search for a permanent president is underway.

Dr. Albrecht and her husband are in the process of establishing a temporary residence in Flagstaff and will be on campus in the next two weeks. Dr. Albrecht is recently retired after serving seven years as the president of Alvin Community College in Alvin, Texas.

“The Board found her experience, educational philosophy and enthusiasm met our exceptionally high expectations set by the legacy of Dr. Colleen Smith,” said Board Chair Dr. Nat White, adding that the selection was made after the Board reviewed the qualifications of four highly experienced candidates suggested by the Association of Community College Trustees, the college’s search consultant.

“I am honored to be selected as the interim president at Coconino Community College,” Dr. Albrecht said. “I can’t wait to get started. Although I will be with the college only a few months, my goals are to exceed the Board’s expectations and to ensure a smooth transition for the next president. Go Comets!”

Local Business Owner Teaches CCC Students Apartment Maintenance Skills

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2022 • Comments Off

The Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT) program at Coconino Community College prepares students by teaching them about performing maintenance tasks, locksmithing, OSHA 10, product repair, customer service and safety in the workplace.

The CAMT program helps students refine their apartment maintenance skills and gets them ready for their future career. Not only do the CAMT program instructors teach students from textbooks but also from personal experience and real-life scenarios in the newly renovated shop at the Fourth street campus. They can teach the students wiring, plumbing, construction, and HVAC by reproducing scenarios in the lab.

“The book is great, but it is always great to have that on-hand experience,” said Mark Crawford Roanhorse, a CCC electrical instructor and CCC alum who received his construction management degree in 2008. “It’s nice to see the shop remodeled. Now we have state-of-the-art equipment for students to learn with.”

Coconino Community College — Dietrich Sauer Open House Memorial Aug. 13

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2022 • Comments Off

An Open House Memorial Service to remember and honor the life of beloved friend and colleague Dietrich Sauer will be Saturday, Aug. 13, from 1 to 3 p.m., at Coconino Community College,
2800 S. Lone Tree Road.

Everybody is welcome to attend who knew and appreciated this Duran Duran-loving, Star Trek-obsessed, self-professed nerd of the highest order. He was an amazing, one-of-a-kind person who positively impacted the lives of all who he met. He was a loving husband, devoted son, nurturing son-in-law, caring father and amazing friend. There will be no formal service with speakers, but for those who cannot attend the memorial, the event will be streamed. Details to follow.

Flagstaff Chamber Foundation supports scholarships at CCC

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino Community College student Grace Abell works at a preschool in Flagstaff, and her goal is to become an elementary school teacher.

“It’s never really been a question,” Abell said. “It’s all I’ve ever really wanted to do.”

She said she remembers turning 5 years old and bringing her younger sister into the picture.

“Ever since she could sit up, I made her my student,” she said and laughed. “I’ve always had the desire to be a teacher of children.”

Abell is making that goal a reality with the help of scholarships she has received from the Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Foundation in collaboration with the Helios Education Foundation. In the last two years, the Chamber/Helios partnership has awarded $13,500 in scholarships to CCC students.

Coconino Community College — Upcoming Classes & Camps!

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2022 • Comments Off

Explore Summer art classes and youth camps at CCC. Check out what’s going on in Community Education at CCC! Summer Art Series Kitchen Watercolor August 1 – 4, 2:30 – 5:00pm M – Th Learn…

Coconino Community College — Check Out Next Week’s Summer Classes!

by Community Contributor • July 8, 2022 • Comments Off

Summer Art Series: Intro to Jewelry & Metalsmithing

July 11- 14, 2:30 – 5:00pm M – Th

Introduction to the basics of jewelry and metalsmithing with local Flagstaff artist, learning smithing techniques and embellishments for precious metals and stones for your own creative jewelry journey. Enroll today!

Learn more and register here

Located at CCC Lone Tree Campus in Flagstaff

Don’t miss what’s next: CCC Summer Programs

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2022 • Comments Off

Open Water Swimming with Mitch Driebe

TODAY, Thursday, June 16, 2022, at 4:00pm

This lecture is now online only via Zoom webinar

Imagine swimming from Alcatraz to the shores of San Francisco. Think you can do it? If you do… well, maybe you should tune into this lecture first. Learn about the elements of open water swimming and hear stories from Mitch’s experience.

Learn more and register here

CCC Community Education — Free Summer Lectures Coming Up – Register Now!

by Community Contributor • June 9, 2022 • Comments Off

Storytelling – FREE
Monday June 13, 2022 at 2:30pm

Learn some easy tips and tricks for dynamic storytelling in this lecture with Larry Hendricks, a lifelong storyteller and professional writer! Participants will be encouraged to write and share their own stories.

Learn more and register here

Lecture held at CCC Fourth St Campus, Flagstaff.

Supporters for a Thriving CCC — Thank you for the support!

by Community Contributor • June 7, 2022 • Comments Off

Thanks to all of you, the voters of Coconino County, Coconino Community College’s (CCC) Proposition 438 passed by a wide margin in the May 17th election! This means Coconino Community College will add critical programs and continue to provide training for our first responders, construction engineers, and service technicians. The increased funding also means more students will be served including veterans, IT professionals and teachers in Flagstaff, Williams, and Page to further CCC’s reach into our County. Your YES vote made the difference!

Voters approve tax reset for CCC

by Community Contributor • May 31, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County voters have approved an increase in funding for Coconino Community College.

On Friday, during a special session, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors certified the May 17, 2022, election results for CCC’s request to increase the primary property tax levy to support the college.

“On behalf of Coconino Community College, I would like to thank the voters and the many community members who worked hard to help the ballot initiative be successful,” said CCC President Colleen A. Smith, Ph.D. “Because of them, we can continue our good work moving into a bright future serving students throughout Coconino County.”

The election saw 20,947 ballots cast, which was about 23 percent of the registered voters in Coconino County. Of the ballots cast, the vast majority were submitted by mail. About 64 percent voted in favor of the tax reset for the college.

Summer Fun at CCC

by Community Contributor • May 31, 2022 • Comments Off

Space is limited! Register your campers today.
Next week’s camps:

Coconino Community College: Upcoming Youth Summer Camps | Register Now!

by Community Contributor • May 26, 2022 • Comments Off

Dungeons & Dragons – $149

(Ages 14-18)

June 6-9, 2022 – 8am-12pm

Interesting in table-top games? Learn creative-writing, decision-making, and teamwork through a four-day Dungeons & Dragons campaign! Materials, snacks, and camper t-shirt included.

Learn more and register here

CCC 2022 Summer Learning Series | Register Now!

by Community Contributor • May 20, 2022 • Comments Off

CCC invites you to join us for our free classes will be held in-person at our Fourth Street Campus and virtually.

We welcome you to join us in June and July to learn about topics such as astronomy, history, art, health, and more!

Browse the current lectures and click the link below to see our most updated list of free summer lectures today!

Supporters for a Thriving CCC — Proposition 438 supports Coconino Community College on Tuesday, May 17 ballot!

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2022 • Comments Off

Only one more day untilwe know if CCC’s Proposition 438 passed, and so we’re doing ONE LAST PUSH!

Donating to the campaign: It’s not too late to donate for the first time, or even the second time. We have to raise more to give it everything we’ve got in these last days. You can donate on our website www.yesforcoconino.com or send a check made out to Supporters for a Thriving CCC, and send to Supporters for a Thriving CCC, 1600 W University Ave, Suite 206, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.

Voting Yes: If you haven’t already sent in your early ballot, please dig it out of that pile that you made for later consideration, and take it to a ballot drop box, or take it to the polls on May 17. Or vote early at one of the Early Voting locations. Or go to the polls on May 17 and vote in person.

To learn the location of the Ballot Drop Box locations, Early Voting locations, Polling Place locations and other useful information here are some things you can click on:

Informational Pamphlet Early Voting Locations
Check the Status of your Early Ballot Ballot Drop Box Locations
Polling Place Locations Navajo Nation Ballot Drop Off Locations
Live Ballot Counting Video Stream
We greatly appreciate everything many of you have already done by donating, endorsing, phone banking, going door to door, tabling, advising us, or helping in other ways!

This is crucial for our county!

Coconino Community College — A quick word from the President, more news

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2022 • Comments Off

I am proud that I have never missed a commencement in my 41 years of working for community college students. I was so disappointed that during the height of the pandemic we had to hold two of our ceremonies in a virtual format, and I am thrilled that we are all planning to be together in person for commencement 2022!

Commencement is such a wonderful time to celebrate the achievements of our students with their families and friends, and with our colleagues all across the College. I know how important it is for our students—you can see it in their eyes as they cross the stage. And that is what makes it important to me. So, it is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge this will be my last community college commencement ceremony before I retire from serving our students. Yet, my heart is full of joy knowing that I get to finish out my career at Coconino Community College- somehow I must have saved the best for last!

Local Business Owner Teaches CCC Students Apartment Maintenance Skills

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2022 • Comments Off

CCC to present ‘Through the Years’ 30th anniversary celebration on May 9

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2022 • Comments Off

Join Coconino Community College staff, faculty, alums, students and supporters as we celebrate the college through the years during our 30th year serving communities of Coconino County.

From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 9, CCC Lone Tree Campus Commons, 2800 S. Lone Tree Road, Flagstaff.

Listen to stories from faculty, alums, students, staff and supporters on how the college came to be, how it grew over the years and what’s in store for the future. Proclamations celebrating CCC from Coconino County and the cities of Flagstaff and Page will be shared. Food and refreshments will be available.

CCC2NAU student sees a future in the Grand Canyon and in academia

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2022 • Comments Off

He wants to focus on his education while still being a river guide.

Coconino Community College student David Cassidy has worked as a river guide in the Grand Canyon for the last 13 years. He originally grew up in Yuma, Ariz., but fell in love with the Grand Canyon when he was 17 while visiting with his friends.

“I was pretty blown away by it and determined to come back,” Cassidy said, adding, “I just thought there is so much to see, even if I come back once a year, I’ll never see as much as I want to.”

Cassidy moved to Grand Canyon Village at the age of 19 and started working odd jobs in the town to be close to the canyon. One day while on a hike, he met someone on the trail who was there for both work and to see the beautiful sights the Grand Canyon had to offer. Cassidy decided that was the career for him.

CCC student sees future at Phoenix Children’s Hospital

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2022 • Comments Off

She wants to help others with the same experience

Coconino Community College student Anna Gottschling has lived in Flagstaff all of her life. At the age of two, she suffered from an injury known as a subdural hematoma, which is a bleed in your brain. She was saved by Dr. Nathan Avery in Flagstaff and then transferred to Phoenix Children’s Hospital for additional surgeries, physical therapy, and her recovery.

CCC2NAU student to become a health psychologist

by Community Contributor • April 8, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino Community College student Kayla Witzig moved to Flagstaff from Scottsdale to continue her education and achieve her goal of getting her associate degree in psychology. She chose CCC because of the beautiful weather in Flagstaff and because she was not sure what she wanted to do after high school graduation. She wanted to start slow at a community college.

Witzig is a CCC2NAU student, and she said that “I have my own CCC2NAU advisor,” adding that they help her figure out the courses she needs to complete at CCC to receive her associate degree and transfer to NAU.

The CCC2NAU program helps students save money and accomplish their educational goals both at CCC and NAU. The program offers a seamless transition process that will help transferring students.

CCC student sees future working in IT or programming

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2022 • Comments Off

He loves to learn, especially about computers.

Coconino Community College student Cameron Jones started taking classes at CCC when he was in high school as a student enrolled in the Coconino Association for Vocations, Industry, and Technology program, better known as CAVIAT. CAVIAT helps high school students get college credit and hands-on knowledge about job skills required for certain careers, preparing their path after they graduate from high school.

“The CAVIAT program was a taste of the real thing,” Jones said, adding that he is now a part of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at CCC. Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society that has more than 1200 different chapters, including CCC’s chapter, Beta Gamma Chi.

Commentary — Supporters for a Thriving CCC — Coconino Communty College needs our support! Vote YES on May 17 on Prop. 438

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2022 • Comments Off

“Supporters for a Thriving CCC” Political Action Committee are a group of volunteers working to support Coconino Community College and its long-term success for our region. Unfortunately, the college is critically underfunded and needs more revenue to meet the needs of today and tomorrow.

The good news: there is a way to fix it. This May 17th, the college will be asking voters in the county for a sustainable, pragmatic, primary property tax rate reset. We recognize and value your community leadership and ask for your help in this effort both financially and verbally.

Passage of the ballot measure will reset the college’s primary property tax rate to a level that will still be the lowest in the state but will provide the necessary dependable revenues to sustain the college well into the future.

Supporters for a Thriving CCC — Coconino Communty College needs our support!

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino Community College (CCC) improves the lives of our residents through workforce development and higher education, and the community wants the college to continue preparing our residents for the jobs of today and tomorrow. But if we don’t fix a dire funding situation before it’s too late, CCC won’t be able to provide the programs vital to the success of our region.

All-Arizona Team scholarship recipient to focus on public mental health

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2022 • Comments Off

He was tired of chasing after a big paycheck and wanted to do something more for his community.

That’s why Coconino Community College student Frank Stucjus decided to return to school a bit later in life.

“I really like the idea of helping people get the tools to solve their problems,” Stucjus said, adding that he’s had a tumultuous life and would like to help navigate through the tough spots in their own lives as a counselor or a teacher. “I wanted to do something that gives back to the people around me.”

All-Arizona Team scholarship recipient builds future

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2022 • Comments Off

What started out as a desire to build a home she could call her own has turned into a career path.

Now that Coconino Community College student Andrea Clayton has received the All-Arizona Academic Scholarship, she will continue her journey toward a bachelor’s degree in Construction Technology Management and, maybe, owning her own business.

“There’s a certain satisfaction in building with my own hands,” Clayton said, adding that she hopes to gain some experience managing projects for a local contractor before trying to strike out owning her own business.

CCC students awarded All-Arizona Academic Scholarship

by Community Contributor • March 2, 2022 • Comments Off

Two Coconino Community College students have been recognized for the esteemed 2022 All-Arizona Academic Team Scholarship.

The scholarship provides free tuition for 60 credit hours at the recipient’s choice of one of the three state universities – Arizona State University, University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University.

This year, Frank Stucjus and Andrea Clayton received the news from CCC that they were selected for the All-Arizona Academic Team.

“It means I don’t have to worry about the tuition coming out of the money we use to pay bills,” Stucjus said. “There is no question now that I’m going to stick it out to the end.”

CCC student wants to make a difference when people need it the most

by Community Contributor • February 18, 2022 • Comments Off

Alfredo Villa wanted to be a part of his community and to make a difference in people’s lives.

So, he went to Coconino Community College and took Fire Science courses. He landed a job with the Highlands Fire District as a firefighter. He received his Emergency Medical Technician certificate in 2009.

And now, Villa is in the 2021-22 cohort of Paramedic Studies.

“I think it’s a dynamic profession,” Villa said. “There’s constantly something to learn. There’s a lot of teamwork involved, and every day is a little bit different, and every patient is a little bit different. For the creative types and for people who like helping people, it’s a great place to go to work. You have the opportunity to make a difference in people’s days when they need it the most.”

CCC gets community input on future workforce training opportunities for Williams

by Community Contributor • February 18, 2022 • Comments Off

OSHA 10, CPR and First-Aid certifications. Skills in the trades that are useful for building maintenance. Customer service, and, of course, hotel and restaurant management certifications.

Over the course of two days last week, Williams residents voiced their workforce training needs to Continuing Education and Workforce Training leaders at Coconino Community College as part of a partnership with the City of Williams. The events, “Connect & Ignite,” were meant to give CCC information on creating and offering future training opportunities for the city’s workforce, particularly in the hospitality and service industries.

Page CCC Student to become flight paramedic in future

by Community Contributor • February 11, 2022 • Comments Off

She is dedicated to schoolwork and family.

Coconino Community College student Shayla Haskan, who hails from the Navajo Nation, is currently taking classes at the Page campus. After volunteering with EMS services on the Navajo Nation, she decided to get her EMT certificate to help on her Emergency Medical Services career path, with the end goal of becoming a flight paramedic.

Shayla drives a total of two and a half hours to attend class and another two and a half hours home after the course is over. “Driving the ambulance from 12 pm to midnight prepared me for driving late at night,” she said.

First-Generation student to become therapist

by Community Contributor • February 10, 2022 • Comments Off

She’s a student who enjoys learning.

Coconino Community College student Anna Brown, has decided to continue her education and get her Associate of Arts degree here at CCC. After she gets her degree, she plans to transfer to a four-year college, where she will major in Psychology and minor in Spanish.

“I hope to be a therapist,” Brown said during the interview at the Lone Tree Campus. “Specifically focusing on eating disorders and treatment.”

The first of her family to pursue a college degree, Brown decided to come back to school after taking a couple of years off. She is taking her general education courses to complete her degree, along with some psychology electives.

CCC student aims to keep national parks safe as an EMT

by Community Contributor • February 4, 2022 • Comments Off

She wants to help people when they need it most.

Coconino Community College student Edmonia Martinez, who works as the down lake supervisor for interpretation at the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, is currently taking classes at the CCC Page Center to help her achieve her goal of getting her Emergency Medical Technician certification.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” Martinez said during her interview at the Page Center. “It’s just good to have those skills in case we run into people that are in trouble.”

CCC — The Comet — ‘A quick word from the President’ and more news

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Thirty years ago, Coconino Community College was born.

The birth was a two-step process: First, voters had to decide if they wanted to form a community college district; second, they had to decide to fund the district with property taxes.

Both measures passed, and CCC was born to serve the residents of Coconino County.

However, that is not the end of the story – only the beginning. A challenge came about with the formation of the college that has grown as the college has grown over time. The percentage of property taxes to help run the college is, by far, the lowest offered to any community college district in the state of Arizona. Initially, the college was able to overcome that challenge with the assistance of state funding and fees from tuition. In the last 30 years, the state funding has diminished considerably. Members of the governing board and the college communities have met the challenge of that initial underfunding with incredible efforts to do “more with less.”

Before she left office, state Sen. Sylvia Allen, after seeing the amazing stories of success being experienced by CCC students, decided to take forward an amendment to state law in 2018 that would allow community colleges to ask the voters to decide if they would support an increase to their primary property tax rate in order to bring the college somewhat closer to parity with other community colleges in the state. The governing board has decided now is the time to ask (see related story).

In a special election on May 17, voters will consider an increase to their primary property tax rate. If the voters approve, the tax rate will still be below all the other community colleges; however, it will provide an opportunity to meet many of the demands for career and technical programs and short-term training requested by business and industry throughout Coconino County.

Onward! Náás! Adelante!

Colleen Smith, PhD

Findlay receives 2021 Distinguished Service Award from CCC

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2022 • Comments Off

Despite a global pandemic, he and his staff were instrumental in getting Coconino Community College’s Automotive Technician program running.

That’s why Robby Findlay, director of operations for the Findlay Automotive Group, has been selected as the 2021 recipient of the prestigious Distinguished Service Award at CCC.

“What an unbelievable honor,” he said. “I know how much the college has done for the community, and it’s such an honor CCC is commending me and our auto group.”

CCC student worker sees Law Degree in future

by Community Contributor • January 25, 2022 • Comments Off

She’s focused on work, school, and family.

Coconino Community College student Nizhoni Nez lives in Page with her family while she works at CCC and takes courses to accomplish her plan of getting her Political Science degree.

“My plans with that degree are to get into the NAU pre-law program and hopefully work towards a degree in law,” Nez said during the interview at the CCC Page Center. “It’s something I’ve always talked about with my father.”

She was worried about coming back to school after a leap year, she said, but due to hard work and the great communication she has with her teachers, she is doing great in her classes.

SBDC at CCC helps business find stride to thrive

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2022 • Comments Off

They all arrive as if they are arriving for work – on time. They are all smiles as they meet Jen Green-Vance, president and CEO of Strides 2 Thrive and Elevated Shredding.

“With these guys and girls, it’s amazing,” Green-Vance said, after hugging or talking with each one of her clients. “And our job is to help them grow and thrive and achieve their best life possible.”

Green-Vance and her husband Joe Vance specialize in offering services to people with disabilities in the Flagstaff area. From assisted-living and day services to job training and skills acquisition, they offer opportunity to people with a range of disabilities.

And with the help of the Coconino Small Business Development Center, Green-Vance secured the funding to build facilities for their growing businesses – Strides 2 Thrive and Elevated Shredding.

CCC student sees ‘big data’ in future

by Community Contributor • January 14, 2022 • Comments Off

She’s all about “big data” and family.

Coconino Community College student Johanna Hawley moved to Flagstaff from her home on the Navajo Nation in order to get the education she needs to satisfy her goal of getting a Computer Science degree and being a data analyst.

“I want to be able to provide for my parents and family,” Hawley said in between classes at the Lone Tree Campus. “My goal is to have my parents retire and me be the breadwinner.”

CCC District Governing Board votes for tax-reset election in May 2022

by Community Contributor • January 10, 2022 • Comments Off

The Coconino Community College District Governing Board voted to move forward with an election to reset the primary property tax rate for the community college district.

The issue was voted on by the board members during the board’s Dec. 8 meeting.

The special election is scheduled for May 17, 2022. The election was made possible by the Arizona Legislature in 2018 with the amended Arizona Revised Statute 42-17056 to permit CCC to resubmit a proposed property tax levy for approval by the voters in an amount less than or equal to two times the otherwise authorized levy amount.

Coconino Community College Page Center seeking Strengthening Indigenous Student Success (SISS) Retention Advisor

by Community Contributor • January 6, 2022 • Comments Off

The Strengthening Indigenous Student Success (SISS) Retention Advisor assists the Program Coordinator in the management of the grant-funded Strengthening Indigenous Student Success project. This position will be located on the Page Center in beautiful Page, AZ. This position is a full-time, 12-month, benefits-eligible position.

Strengthening Native American student success at CCC

by Community Contributor • January 5, 2022 • Comments Off

One in five students at Coconino Community College is Native American.

Often, the Native American students who arrive at CCC are the first in their family to pursue a college education and may also come from challenging economic situations. As a result, they may face barriers in obtaining a college degree.

In an effort to increase Native American student course success, completion rates and a sense of belonging in the college community, CCC has received a $2.1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Called the Native American-Serving Nontribal Institution (NASNTI) grant, the funds will be distributed over a five-year period.

“CCC values the sacred land on which we live and serve and the indigenous peoples who have inhabited it for centuries,” said CCC Provost Dr. Nate Southerland. “One in five students at CCC is Native American, and we look forward to providing these students with culturally responsive teaching, enhanced support, and interpersonal connections to help them be successful in their studies.”

CCC Adult Education Program New Student Orientation will be held Jan. 4, 5

by Community Contributor • January 4, 2022 • Comments Off

Happy New Year Coconino Community College partners and friends,

Everyone is invited and welcome to attend the two-day, in-person New Student Orientation at Coconino Community College presented by CCC Adult Education.

Adult Basic Education for College & Careers

New Student Orientation

Sept. 28 — Coconino Community College to present Free Comet Talk ‘The Greatest Game Ever Played’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino Community College will present the Free Comet Talk “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” Jim Thorpe, Dwight Eisenhower, and the Battle for the Soul of America, from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28 at CCC Fourth Street Campus, 3000 N. Fourth St., Flagstaff.

CCC student honors ‘service’ in National Park Service

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Rachel Stice works as a dispatcher with the National Park Service at the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Although she loves her job, she has designs on being a park Ranger. A first step on that journey is to get certified as an Emergency Medical Technician. Luckily for her, Coconino Community College’s Page Center offers an Emergency Medical Service course to help her achieve her goal.

“I work a lot behind the scenes, behind the computer with our Rangers for visitor and resource protection,” Stice said. “Along with that, we have a lot of medical calls in our area.”

Shop CCC Scarves for Scholarships at the Annual Fine Craft & Decorative Art Market on Dec. 4, 5

by Community Contributor • December 1, 2021 • Comments Off

Shop CCC Scarves for Scholarships at the Annual Fine Craft & Decorative Art Market and in the CCC Lone Tree Campus Commons this Saturday & Sunday; and Monday – Thursday.

Visit the Coconino Community College Foundation booth for festive holiday gifts.

The Scarves for Scholarships fundraiser supports Nursing Student Scholarships at CCC.
Why not stay warm and cozy this year while helping to support a good cause all at the same time?

Giving Tuesday on Nov. 30 at Coconino Community College

by Community Contributor • November 25, 2021 • Comments Off

Support student success at Coconino Community College by giving to the CCC Foundation on Giving Tuesday – a global, online generosity movement designed to transform communities this Tuesday, November 30, 2021.

For more than 30 years, CCC has been putting “Students First”. This year, your gift on Giving Tuesday will go towards the CCC Foundation Greatest Needs Fund, which supports the immediate financial needs of CCC students.

Page High School student gets jump on college with CCC

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2021 • Comments Off

She wants to be a surgeon.

To that end, Page resident Ryan Thomas, 18, is doing her best, through Coconino Community College, to get as many college credits out of the way before she ever leaves Page High School.

“I’ve always been focused on helping people and giving back to them,” Thomas said.

High school students in Coconino County have three options if they are interested in receiving college credits. Dual Enrollment students take college-level courses at a significantly reduced cost at their high schools. Concurrent Enrollment students take college-level courses at regular tuition costs at one of CCC’s campuses. Finally, Coconino Association for Vocations, Industry and Technology (CAVIAT) students take college level, vocational-based courses, leading to an industry or CCC certification, at no cost to the student, at one of CCC’s campuses.

Coconino Community College will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2021 • Comments Off

Thanksgiving Holiday – CCC is Closed
Thursday, November 25 – Sunday, November 28, 2021

The college will reopen on its regular schedule Monday, November 29, 2021.
CCC is always open online at www.coconino.edu

CCC — The Comet — CCC receives grant to foster Native American student success and more news

by Community Contributor • October 27, 2021 • Comments Off

The land of Coconino County is rich in geological stories and steeped in a sacred importance to all of us who live here. Coconino Community College is located in the middle of the land’s magnificence. More than 20 percent of our students at the college are Native American, and because CCC is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive learning environment, the perspective of our Native American students is vitally important to our identity. To that end, when students from the college’s Indigenous Student Association developed a Land Acknowledgement Statement, the college community acted universally to make it a part of CCC’s culture.

New CCC exhibit puts beauty to work

by Community Contributor • October 1, 2021 • Comments Off

Fabric and stitches. Rough and soft surface. Colors, seen, from muted to vivid – yellow, blue, red, purple and green.

With titles like “Battlefield” and “Suffragist,” the work punches the gut as reminder of women’s experiences. It is beautiful, it is useful, and it is art.

Flagstaff artist Darcy Falk is featured in the Fall Exhibit at the Comet Gallery at Coconino Community College. Her textile art brings to bear a medium of expression that is typically associated with the functional – like clothes or quilts.

But these are not traditional quilts.

“Textiles are really just the medium, but that doesn’t define the work,” Falk said. “It’s like painting, or working with clay. You can make it what you want.”

Proceeds from the Flagstaff Marathon on Oct. 2 will benefit Coconino Community College Cross Country Team

by Community Contributor • September 24, 2021 • Comments Off

Get ready to run the Flagstaff Marathon! We’re just a few weeks away. Proceeds benefit the Coconino Community College Cross Country Team. Go, Comets!

CCC’s TRIO program helps student achieve goals

by Community Contributor • August 27, 2021 • Comments Off

Nicholas Villas-Fletcher sat in the office filling out the paperwork to graduate from Northern Arizona University.

He will be the first generation in his family to complete a college degree, and the journey was made possible with the help of TRIO Student Support Services at Coconino Community College.

“I desperately needed help,” Villas-Fletcher said. “They made a difference. TRIO is a vital service for students who don’t have support like others.”

CCC Student Ambassadors: Reward in helping others

by Community Contributor • August 27, 2021 • Comments Off

Alexis “Lexi” Jishie sits behind the partition at her desk. She’s masked for safety, but she’s ready to be helpful for students.

Jishie is a Student Ambassador for Coconino Community College, and it is her job to help students navigate through the college experience.

“What I enjoy most about it is how involved I can be with students and Student Life activities,” Jishie said. “I like working with the other Student Ambassadors and getting out of my comfort zone and advocating for and helping students.”

Happy 30th Birthday, CCC

by Community Contributor • August 24, 2021 • Comments Off

On Aug. 26, 1991, Coconino Community College opened its doors on Fourth Street in Flagstaff to serve students in Coconino County by offering local, affordable, quality education.

This year, events are planned across the county to celebrate CCC putting students first for the last 30 years.

Where and when?

To kick off a year of fun and celebration, CCC will be having birthday parties at all three locations in the county:

CCC student ready for trucking career

by Community Contributor • August 23, 2021 • Comments Off

Flagstaff resident Lisa Black is a single mother of two children, ages 17 and 11. On the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, she needed a job – a good job.

“I want to do something I love,” she said, “And driving’s something I love.”

So, when she heard about a new program training people to get a commercial driver’s licenses, she was interested. Four weeks later, she’s passed all her tests, and she’s putting in applications to be a commercial truck driver. Prospects are better than good.

30-Year Birthday Bash Celebrations at Coconino Community College

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2021 • Comments Off

Established August 26, 1991, Coconino Community College opened its doors on Fourth Street in Flagstaff to serve students in Coconino County by offering local, affordable and quality education.

This year, Coconino Community College is celebrating 30-yeas of putting students first.
To kick-off an annual celebration of fun across Coconino County, everyone is invited to attend one or more of the 30-Year Anniversary Birthday Bashes happening at all three CCC locations.

Happy 30th Birthday, CCC

by Community Contributor • August 13, 2021 • Comments Off

On Aug. 26, 1991, Coconino Community College opened its doors on Fourth Street in Flagstaff to serve students in Coconino County by offering local, affordable, quality education.

This year, events are planned across the county to celebrate CCC putting students first for the last 30 years.

Where and when?

To kick off a year of fun and celebration, CCC will be having birthday parties at all three locations in the county:

Tuesday, Aug. 24, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Lone Tree Campus, 2800 S. Lone Tree Road.
Thursday, Aug. 26, 4 to 7 p.m., at the Fourth Street Campus, 3000 N. Fourth St.
Friday, Aug. 27, 4-7 p.m. at the Page Center, 475 S. Lake Powell Blvd., in Page.

Lyon’s Pride Scholarship established at CCC

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2021 • Comments Off

With the right helping a hand, a person who always dreamed of college and the possibility of a better life can work to realize that dream.

An Arizona-based Real Estate company wants to offer that helping hand to students at Coconino Community College.

The nonprofit arm of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, the Russ Lyon Foundation, established the Lyon’s Pride Scholarship through the CCC Foundation.

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