Success Stories

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Emma is proud to be a first-generation college student and exults that “This will be my first graduation ceremony!” (Of any kind.)

What were Emma’s biggest obstacles to reach this graduation day? “The unexpected loss of my mom. She was one of my biggest supporters and the main reason I enrolled in college. Grieving, coping and healing from the loss” while studying full-time plus working a part-time job required — even on nearly “unbearable days” — the “resilience, determination, and perseverance my mom instilled in me.”

Who am I? Emma wondered. What do I want? How can I make a difference in the world by helping others?

She found answers to these questions by engaging on campus, transforming herself, and learning to be the leader, she tells us, that she never knew she could be. She believes a huge amount of her professional and personal development came from working in the office of Student Life.

While earning her Associate of Arts degree, Emma also threw herself into campus involvement, including Emerging Leaders, LeaderShape Institute (PVCC/MCCCD leadership programs), Peer Mentoring, and the Student Public Policy Forum. While working in Student Life, she helped organize the Chancellor’s Visit, Diversity and Inclusion Training, Title IX Training for students, Food Distribution Events, Community Service Fairs and Club Advisor Training.

She received the Chancellor's Civic Medallion and the PVCC’s Golden Puma: Distinguished Student Leadership Award (only four students collect this annual honor). Her nominator for the Golden Puma Award shared that while Emma often credits her peers and mentors for helping her, it is clear that, while she may not realize it, Emma actively inspires those around her, too.

As if these accomplishments weren’t enough, Emma was also selected to travel to Washington D.C. as a representative of the Maricopa Community Colleges in order to meet with Arizona’s Congressional Delegation and advocate for higher education issues.

Emma's vision for her future includes promoting better educational policy in Arizona while working in Student Affairs at an institution of higher learning. To build on her ability to do this, she will transfer to Northern Arizona University to earn a bachelor's degree in Public Administration and then proceed to Arizona State University for a master's degree in Higher and Post-secondary Education (M.Ed).

Emma, you have earned your mother’s pride.

Coming from a low-income household, the affordability and accessibility made PVCC very desirable for Emmanuel. He could continue to live at home and remain in his neighborhood. PVCC was a great bridge option for him and it was the first college Emmanuel looked at. Upon taking the placement exams; he learned his scores qualified him for the Honors Program plus a tuition waiver. 

Emmanuel shared, “Faculty were very approachable; class sizes were great and very conducive to learning. Faculty, staff and Counseling and Career Services were very supportive.” PVCC proved to become a familiar place where he felt very welcomed and accepted. “It was an environment where you really can get to know people. A place to make great connections, get involved and pursue a myriad of leadership opportunities.”

Upon reflection of his campus influencers, several names come to mind for Emmanuel: Dr. Marianne Auten, Ivette Quintero, Dr. Linda Knoblock, Bahman Maneshni and Dr. Norma Chandler. These individuals were very helpful and supportive during his time at PVCC.

Among Emmanuel’s most positive memories is his participation in the Emerging Leaders Program.  He developed enduring friendships as well as leadership and public speaking skills.  Emmanuel was engaged in a number of student activities and societies: Phi Beta Lambda Business Club at PVCC, Emerging Leaders Program of PVCC, PVCC Student Ambassadors and Orientation Leaders, Arizona Town Hall, and the PVCC Honors Program. These opportunities provided him the opportunity to serve on panels, travel to conferences and represent the college all while expanding his horizons. 

After graduating with Honors and High Distinction from PVCC, Emmanuel went on to attend Barrett Honors College and W.P. Carey Business School at ASU. Transitioning to a large, four-year institution felt a bit daunting, however, academically Emmanuel felt very prepared. Internships while at ASU then led to employment with GoDaddy and currently Emmanuel is a Business Analyst Consultant at Fidelity Investments.

Eric Bucher was in search of a degree program that met his needs as a working student, offered quality experiences, and provided multiple options to access courses. Eric said, “PVCC was that place! The Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education program offered night and Saturday classes that were flexible to the schedules of early childhood educators like me.” At the time, Eric was working with young children and families as an early childhood educator.

As a first generation college student, Eric was anxious. From his very first class, his worries about whether he could complete his assignments on time; would he be able to apply his classroom learning to his work with children; and would it be worth the investment of his time and energy, were met with support and understanding by the faculty. “All of the professors had student success at the top of mind and took the time to build positive relationships with students,” Eric said.

Eric credits Christie Colunga and Ana Stigsson, Early Childhood Education faculty at PVCC, with providing the advising and support that helped him grow as a lifelong learner. They went above and beyond to ensure students experienced quality, relevant, practical content and developed their skills as reflective, thoughtful early childhood educators. Eric shared, “They saw in me what I did not yet see in myself – the ability to be a leader in my community and to design a more desirable and equitable early care and education field in Arizona.” Eric credits their visionary program for his “development of a deep understanding of what could be possible for children, families, and educators” which made a difference in his preschool program and community. Through course content, Eric learned how to seek the strengths, interests, and ideas of the children and families he worked with. Eric said, “These principles helped promote diversity and equity and amplified the vibrancy that contributes to strong communities.”

As a recipient of the statewide First Things First College Scholarship, the cost of tuition as well as course materials and books was covered, making the college-going experience seamless and accessible. Eric was involved with the HANDS Club. This early childhood organization offered multiple opportunities to become involved in community events and participate in reflective professional development.

Eric credits his experience at PVCC in “helping me to grow into the early childhood professional I am today.” After successfully completing his Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education at PVCC, he completed a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood and a Master’s of Education in Early Childhood Leadership from Northern Arizona University and a Doctorate of Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University.

Dr. Eric Bucher is the program manager at Madison Elementary School District in Phoenix where he leads the district’s preschool and community education programs. Eric also serves as the  Executive Director of Arizona Association for the Education of Young Children (AzAEYC). In this role, he works to advance equity, racial and social justice, and elevate the voices of early childhood educators.

What inspired you to attend PVCC?

I didn’t want to go to college really as I didn’t want to be a financial burden to my parents but after a family meeting the summer after high school we agreed it was the best option for me at the time. PVCC was close to home and would be a great place to make a transition from high school to college.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC?

My primary objective was to get as many required classes for the business degree out of the way as possible. The small class settings made it ideal.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

Like high school it was really the fun of attending with many of my friends from high school. Mr. Thielen taught interpersonal communication which quickly became my favorite class and gave me tools I still use to this day.

How would you describe PVCC to others?

It’s changed a lot in the 30 years since I went there, the growth has been phenomenal to watch.

What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?

Just don’t give up.

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

After PVCC I went to NAU and graduated with a degree in business. I knew I wanted to be in banking and climbed the retail banking ladder until I was introduced to the mortgage business and I knew that was for me. Now I am National Sales Manager for a national mortgage lender.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

Everyone has an opinion, listen to them all but go after what you want. It’s your life that no one but you has to live. Make smart choices.

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

Funny, my greatest challenge in school was math and now I do it for a living everyday.  Like most businesses, being able to survive the ups and down is key.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

Being at PVCC really opened my mind to so much more than I can express. From economics to marketing, so many great classes taught by people who were living it or have lived it. Often light bulbs go off and I remember one of the things instructors taught me.

Who knew that her aunt’s trip to Williston, North Dakota to visit Erica would result in her becoming a PVCC Puma? Yes, Williston is a “very cold place” so an invitation to move to Arizona and attend PVCC was particularly inviting.  Erica shares, “The name alone sounded magical to me during one of the coldest winters in memory, and I was ready to pack my bags that day.”

Erica’s Aunt, Karen Fehr, recently retired PVCC faculty, played a key role and “helped me navigate my first college experience, put me in contact with colleagues who helped me along the way, and encouraged me to try new things.” Another key influencer was Heather Kruse, who encouraged Erica to get involved on campus. Ultimately, those experiences led to a career in Student Life & Leadership within the Maricopa Community Colleges District.

“My involvement in the Emerging Leaders (EL) program is my fondest memory from my time at PVCC,” Erica says. “I was a member of the very first Emerging Leadership program, as well as the first Emerging Leaders 2 backpacking experience. It was my first experience with leadership training, and it truly was life changing. I learned valuable leadership skills from a team of instructors who made it easy to understand and enjoyable.”

Erica’s involvement in Recreational Outing Club, Phi Theta Kappa and Student Government helped her develop great memories, experiences, and friendships. Something sweeter came when Erica tried something unexpected. Despite having never played the game, Erica picked up a club and joined PVCC’s first Women’s Golf team. “Little did I know that I’d be playing in golf tournaments with my future husband, who I would meet just a few years later when I was working at a golf course. Of course, I never would have worked at that golf course had I not developed an interest in golf during my time playing for the PVCC women’s team.”

Although she didn’t realize it at the time, Erica’s choice to become involved on campus by joining her first club – the Recreational Outing Club – helped her become the person she is today. “It gave me the confidence and desire to do more, and by the end of my time at PVCC, I had had so many great experiences.” Upon completing her Associates degree at PVCC, Erica returned home to North Dakota, and received her bachelor’s degree from Minnesota State University-Moorhead. When I think of my Alma Mater, PVCC is the first place that comes to mind, and I truly believe that was because I felt much more connected to that institution and its people.”

Erica’s experience at PVCC led her to pursue a career in Student Life and Leadership.  She wanted to “provide those same experiences to others.” Erica started her career at Phoenix College before moving to the Mesa Community College Red Mountain campus where she has “built a thriving, innovative, and successful Student Life program” and it all started because of her experiences at PVCC.

Erin was drawn to PVCC due to its “close to home” location.  It offered a small college setting and she found the staff and faculty very helpful and supportive.  Actually, Erin “came home” to PVCC after spreading her wings fresh out of high school at NAU. PVCC provided a perfect opportunity to “work full-time and try to figure out my next move.”

Much to Erin’s chagrin, Public Speaking was a course requirement and she was “deathly afraid of public speaking.” The faculty member who taught this class “really helped me overcome this fear.” As a matter of fact, in her current position she frequently engages in public speaking and is so thankful that she was forced to face her fear and overcome it while in a friendly, supportive environment at PVCC.  Erin also has fond memories of her Environmental Biology class. An extracurricular component offered through this class was a trip to Cave Creek Park to inventory the desert plants and wildlife. Soon some of the park visitors started to follow the students to join in on this learning opportunity as well.

Overall, Erin’s experience in every class at PVCC was one where “the faculty members were very engaged and invested in giving real world examples.  At PVCC, I felt a great sense of connection.  Everyone is engaged in student success and is very welcoming and inclusionary. It is so important to feel comfortable in your learning environment.”

Erin attributes her academic and professional success to the English, writing and humanities classes she took at PVCC. These classes enabled her to hone her writing and verbal communication skills in a supportive educational setting.  Without this foundation, Erin feels she “would not have reached her current level of success.”

PVCC had a profound impact on her love of learning. Erin enthusiastically endorses PVCC as a first choice for one’s education. PVCC provided a great foundation on which to build as she went on to complete her Bachelors and Masters degrees.

Currently, Erin serves as an Assistant Director for NAU working to develop educational partnerships and bachelor degree completion pathways with Maricopa Community Colleges. Her office is on PVCC’s campus. “To this day, I still see this high level of involvement and investment in student success and learning.”

While in high school, Felipe concurrently took college classes at PVCC through the ACE program.  He really enjoyed the culture at PVCC and decided to continue his educational journey here due to PVCC’s outstanding nursing program.

Felipe shared, “Everyone at the college was great; most notable were Dr. Denise Digianfilippo, Vice President of Academic Affairs at that time, and the nursing instructors. They have played a huge part in the mentorship portion of my academic endeavors and have guided me through the semesters as a nursing student.” Among Felipe’s most memorable moments were in the nursing simulation building where he attributes acquiring the majority of his skilled assessment techniques and procedures.  Felipe shared, “This left such a positive impression because to this day, as a registered nurse, I am able to follow everything I learned in that lab to ensure excellent patient care through meticulous technique.”

One of the extracurricular activities that left a profound impact on Felipe’s experience was being a co-founder of the Future Health Professionals club, formerly known as Health Occupations Students of America, with Dr. Digianfilippo. “Being a part of its startup at the college was amazing and I truly enjoyed the process and mentorship I received from Dr. Digianfilippo.” Felipe was also active in the Psychology Club, Student Nurses Association, and Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society. Being a member of various clubs enabled him to interact and befriend various people in different fields. Felipe shared, “I was able to understand different viewpoints and practice collaboration skills and teamwork building. I cherished each interaction, as everyone I met shared stories and experiences that have helped me throughout the years.”

Felipe was the recipient of the Presidents’ scholarship, which was a big help in purchasing books and equipment needed for school. He also received various scholarships through other organizations such as the National Association of Hispanic Nurses which helped in making tuition more affordable.

“PVCC has been an incredible experience for me, it is a place that opens many possibilities for you as a student and future leader. I would say, you need to make every experience matter if you truly want to get the best experience out of something.” Felipe’s advice to others, “You should meet with an advisor, see what programs they offer and explore the possibilities. You can also email professors and ask questions about specific programs to get a better understanding of what’s to come. Everyone is willing to help, you just need to reach out and various hands will come your way to help lift you up.”

Trajectory upon leaving PVCC: Dr. Santoyo-Cuellar currently works as the supervisor over the Pain Clinic, Pain Rehabilitation Center, Surgical Pre-admit, and Perioperative Evaluation Clinic at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, AZ. He started his career as a registered nurse through the Mayo Clinic Nurse Residency Program in 2017 on the Cardiovascular Progressive Care Unit and later transitioned to the Intensive Care Unit during the COVID-19 pandemic. He became a Nurse Preceptor at Mayo Clinic and has been active in various committees within Mayo such as Research, Nursing New Knowledge and Innovation, Wound-Ostomy, Quality Improvement, and many more. He later received his Progressive Care Certification (PCCN) through the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses as well as becoming a Board Certified Cardiovascular Nurse (CVRN-BC) through the American Board of Cardiovascular Medical Accreditation. Dr. Santoyo-Cuellar serves as the Nominations Chair on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Hispanic Nurses Phoenix Chapter. He received his Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Arizona in 2020 and most recently completed his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Georgetown University in 2023. He hopes to continue his efforts in improving healthcare education and access within the historically marginalized communities in Phoenix, Arizona.

“My overall experiences at PVCC were excellent. If I were to start over, I would not attend any other college but PVCC.” Those glowing remarks are from PVCC Alumnus, Flomo Gibson.  Flomo moved from Liberia to Phoenix in 2005. He enrolled in PVCC due to its proximity to home which allowed him to ride his bike to class every day.

Flomo’s instructors made a great impact on his experience at PVCC. Student Advisor and Athletic Department staff person An’Tony De’Shay gave Flomo a piece of lasting wisdom. “I visited his office one day because I was frustrated with the classes. He looked me in the eyes and said ‘Flo, you are where you are supposed to be, one class at a time,’” Flomo said.  “Ever since, I have learned to deal with issues one at a time. This method has worked for me time after time.”

A Political Science class changed Flomo’s life. “When I was growing up, I wanted to be a civil engineer, until I took a class with Debbie Arn. Her vast knowledge and ability to teach political science gave me a different perspective,” he said. "I learned so much from her class that I went on to get an undergraduate degree in Political Science with an emphasis in international relations from Brigham Young University.”

Outside of the classroom, Flomo was involved with the Black Student Association and was a student-athlete. “One thing I really enjoyed was to play on the men’s football team (soccer). My two years with the team were memorable because I was doing something I love to do,” Flomo said.  “I played football my entire life and it was always a dream to play for a higher institution outside of high school.”

Flomo says that no student at PVCC is ever alone. “PVCC is a great institution. The diversity on campus was one thing I really enjoyed and there were activities for all students. No matter what background a student comes from, the campus has resources and activities that fit the students’ needs,” he said. “As an immigrant to the U.S., my first experience was very vital to help me integrate in the U.S. culture. PVCC offered that to me at no cost.”

Additionally, Flomo always found help and smiling faces with Allison Livingston and the Learning Center staff and tutors.

“PVCC was inclusive of all students. There was not a day I felt left out,” Flomo said. “The lessons I learned from PVCC enabled me to be able to work as a social worker for the Department of Economic Security Division of Developmental Disability for five and a half years before venturing to become a police officer for the City of Phoenix.” In addition to Flomo’s professional accomplishments is his Master’s degree in Public Administration from ASU.

Gabriel Jaramillo did not expect that a Geology Class at PVCC would have such a significant impact on his life perspective. While studying minerals and rocks, the instructor awakened Gabriel’s ability to see the interconnected nature of the world around him. Expanding beyond the study of rocks and minerals, the instructor introduced the students to an awareness of the larger world and the importance of local impact. This proved to be a catalyst for Gabriel developing a perspective larger than him.

The proximity of PVCC to his home and his work enabled Gabriel to attend class in the morning, head off to work and then return to campus in the evening.  Gabriel’s initial focus was on Criminal Justice; however, the affordability enabled him to take courses in other degree programs to explore classes that sparked his interest.  He shares, “It was definitely beneficial being able to take a variety of classes as it gave me a better perspective of my interests.”

Gabriel has fond memories of a project on cognitive thinking in a Psychology course.  Students were required to integrate a prop in their class presentation.  His interest in octopi, coupled with the thought that octopuses are thought to be the most intelligent invertebrates and an important example of advanced cognitive evolution in animals, prompted Gabriel to go to an Asian fish market and purchase an octopus.  He researched how to preserve the octopus using preserving solutions.  Once preserved, this octopus traveled in a glass fish bowl with Gabriel to campus as a prop for his class presentation on the cognitive thinking of an octopus.

Gabriel took a break after PVCC and continued to advance his career in banking.  He went back to school after getting married and starting a family.  Gabriel attended Grand Canyon University and completed his bachelor’s degree in History with an emphasis in public history. 

Currently, Gabriel is Director of Community Development for Habitat for Humanity. He started with Habitat as a Neighborhood Revitalization Case Manager and has continued to pursue opportunities to expand his leadership skills and extend his outreach by serving on local, state and federal housing policy committees.  He is a member of the City of Phoenix North Mountain Village Planning Committee and the Arizona Housing Coalition.  Gabriel’s contributions to addressing Arizona’s affordable housing on multiple levels were recently recognized as he received the “Mark Bethel Scholarship Award” issued by AZ Housing Authority and Arizona NHARO.

What inspired you to attend PVCC?

I was hired to work at PVCC as staff in the Fine and Performing Arts Division in 2013. I had tried several times to finish my degree to no avail. I discovered that PVCC would cover the tuition so I only had to cover books. After getting my transcripts, I realized I only needed 7 more classes. It was a no brainer.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC? And what year did you graduate?

I had studied and worked in Performing Arts most of my career, so I graduated in 2016 with an Associate’s in Arts, one week prior to my 60th birthday.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

Working and studying at PVCC gave me a unique perspective. I was able to help and mentor other students. I had to make a video for one of my classes and in the process was able to enlighten my classmates about theater. I also caused quite the stir when it became known that when I originally started college in 1974 there were no computers!

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why? 

PVCC is a great college. It is very inclusive which is so important today. I always felt that the students I interacted with felt heard and understood. So yes, I would recommend PVCC.

What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?

Take advantage of the things offered on campus that will help you succeed. Find a mentor whether it is another student, staff, counselor or Professor and talk to them asking questions about anything.

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

I continued to work at PVCC after graduation for another 6 years. I officially retired as of October 2022 including retiring from Actors Equity Association as a Professional Stage Manager. I moved to Ohio to be closer to family and am very happy.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

I have always been of the mind to do what you love. I would say find something you love and go for it because in the long run it will make for a much happier life.

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

Because the arts taught me to think outside the box, I became a published poet. I loved stage managing and did it for many years. The challenge with working in the arts is that you don’t make the big bucks but it didn’t matter because I loved my job and was happy as a result.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

I loved working with students and giving audiences the best experience possible when attending live performances on campus. I’m even volunteering at the public high school in the theater department working on productions. So I have come full circle.

Upon finishing high school in Nigeria, Gozie Ibeji and his family moved to Phoenix, Arizona. The PVCC campus looked welcoming, and it quickly became the perfect next step on his educational journey. Gozie reflected, “PVCC was a big part of my life and laid the foundation for my future.”

During his PVCC journey Gozie encountered “a lot of great people,” including Professor Fred Wieck who taught AAA 100. “[Professor Wieck] strived to create a welcoming atmosphere and was very inclusive and always available to listen,” Gozie said. “He made you feel comfortable offering opportunities and avenues to write about your journey.” Gozie developed a counseling relationship with Marianne Roccaforte-Gardner, and she helped him identify his goals and project them into reality. She also helped him find innovative ways to think critically. Ryan Martin in Student Life introduced him to new activities and helped him to be mindful of not getting too deeply committed.

Gozie enjoyed participating in extra-curricular student experiences. He was very involved in Emerging Leaders (EL). During an EL retreat, Gozie was exposed to “Hunger Night,” which allowed the participants to have frank discussions about homelessness and poverty. This experience helped Gozie to realize that you don’t have to go far to make a change. The impact was remarkable. In Nigeria, Gozie’s mother was a nurse and he has “good childhood memories of going to the clinic where she worked and joining her as she made her rounds. This experience drew me into the medical field – I wanted to be of assistance to others.”

Gozie’s experiences through EL helped mold a part of him that had begun in childhood, and PVCC gave him the path. Gozie went on to complete a major in Global Health and a minor in Biological Sciences at ASU. He completed a Master of Public Health degree at University of Texas Health Science Center with a focus on epidemiology. Currently, Gozie is a Data Analyst for UnitedHealthcare.

Emerging Leaders (EL) was very beneficial for building a network and providing exposure to leadership concepts and opportunities. Participation in EL helped Gozie determine what type of leader he could be and an awareness that you can also lead from the back as an influencer. EL also led him to Phi Theta Kappa, which brought the opportunity to connect with other community colleges, and SLICE (Serve, Learn, Inspire, Change, and Educate). These leadership experiences facilitated his development as an individual to connect and effect change as well as learn the tenets of service and the value of citizenship. He said, “It is amazing how the slightest interactions can have a cascading effect. The principles I learned during my PVCC experience have guided my work to this day. I learned how to be a part of a team.”

Greg found the proximity of the campus to his place of residence ideal to pursuing his educational goals at PVCC.  His experience was an extremely positive one.  The small class size and the faculty’s commitment to guide and support students, in addition to getting to know them, was extremely conducive to a positive learning experience.  His Business Logistics instructor, was influential in helping Greg to determine his career path.

The time and dedication that each instructor invested in their students was especially helpful in the higher-level courses he completed. Greg found his instructor in his Microeconomics course outstanding.  He had taken this course at another institution and really struggled.  However, in repeating the course at PVCC, he found an instructor that was very interested in the well-being of the individual student and not just the performance of the student in the specific class.  This was refreshing and created a learning environment conducive to success.  Greg recommends PVCC to prospective students as “a wonderful opportunity for exposure to college and to get yourself grounded.” 

Greg credits PVCC with providing him the opportunity to find direction for his career path and offering a learning environment conducive to applying himself and achieving success.  Greg completed his bachelor’s degree in Global Business in 2008 and will complete his MBA at ASU in May 2018. 

Greg is now a Senior Financial Analyst for the PetSmart Corporate Office in Phoenix.  He manages all capital expense for the IT, Loss Prevention, Corporate Home Office and Supply Chain departments. In addition, he manages the Maintenance & Repair budget for all stores in the US, Puerto Rico and Canada. Greg said he really enjoys working for PetSmart and aspires to work up to a Director level position.

Gustavo Flores was drawn to Paradise Valley Community College due to the reputation of the theater program. Upon coming to PVCC he found so much more than a terrific theater program and was particularly impressed by the diversity of the campus. The mosaic of students attending PVCC, all with a common goal, was particularly appealing and conducive to a vibrant learning community. Gustavo sums up his impressions with the statement, “The people here are incredible.”

Gustavo’s involvement in Student Life and Student Government afforded him a great opportunity to learn by doing as well as become integrated in the tapestry of the campus.; He was inspired by the dedication of the campus community to pitch in and get involved in a myriad of community service projects. The opportunities to develop leadership skills as he worked with fellow students is both a memory and a skill he takes with him as he ventures forth to pursue new adventures.

Gustavo is pursuing his Bachelors of Arts in Theatre at GCU. While at GCU, he has been a part of their main stage productions of Ring Round the Moon, Macbeth, and One Man Two Guvnors; as well as several student-directed one-acts, one being God of Carnage. In addition, Gustavo was accepted onto their improv team, the Cantalopes! During the summer of 2019, Gustavo auditioned and was accepted to the Southwest Shakespeare Company.

When one door closed, Gwendolyn chose to open another door. Upon being laid off from her contracting job with the Arizona Army National Guard, she utilized her military benefits to advance her education and provide a more stable life for her son and herself.

Gwendolyn shared that PVCC “truly is the hometown college experience; professors care and the staff are always looking for ways to connect with students and make the journey as fun as possible. Plus, we have the best mascot!”

She recommends PVCC to new students as “it offers an affordable education with plenty of opportunities for growth. Between the clubs, sports, and classes, there is something for everyone.  Be sure to reach out and ask questions if you don’t understand something. Your professors truly want you to succeed and will make every effort to help if you communicate with them. Smile, say hi to classmates, and enjoy the experience.”

“I began taking courses toward the Entrepreneurial Studies Certificate while scouting a business to buy.  Having access to a SCORE mentor through the Entrepreneurship Education Center was very beneficial. The mentors provided me with additional resources and support.”

As a scholarship recipient, Gwendolyn experienced first-hand the benefit of this financial support.  “I filled out the general application for the Foundation portal and applied to a few outside scholarships. Scholarship support helped take some of the burden off childcare, books, and unexpected expenses, and was a great networking tool.  It also allowed more time to spend with my son instead of working and trying to juggle everything.” Gwendolyn’s decision to accept an invitation to join Phi Theta Kappa opened a door to a $4,000 scholarship opportunity through NAU.

“As for PVCC playing a role in my profession; I believe every experience shapes and molds a person, but it is up to each individual to learn and keep failing forward. I was a well-rounded adult with plenty of military and professional experiences under my belt, so by the time I made it to school; I was looking forward to applying my personal discipline to schoolwork.  If anything, I hope I left an impression as I moved forward to accomplish more degrees.”

Gwendolyn continues to balance work, education and family. Summer of 2020 she received her Bachelor's degree from Northern Arizona University in the Strategic Leadership program and graduated Summa Cum Laude. From January to August 2021, Gwendolyn worked as a Lead Graduate Research Assistant at ASU for a study funded by AmeriCorps, regarding the Technology Evolution in Volunteer Administration. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from ASU in May 2022, successfully earning a Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management. Gwendolyn was 1 of 150 students from around the world inducted into Nu Lambda Mu, an international honor society.

Gwendolyn recently relocated back to the Midwest. There, she started a business, Metals by McKay, selling steel flowers she co-designed with her brother. The “flowers that never die”  are sold at local farmers and artisan markets. Gwendolyn continues to work with non-profit organizations, still searching for a full-time position that she feels most aligned with.

What inspired you to attend PVCC?

There are a few key factors that specifically inspired me to attend PVCC. The first major contributor was my mother; who attended PVCC while raising me as a single mom and working multiple freelance jobs to support us. After graduating in 2012 with her AA in mixed media, and obtaining both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from NAU, she spoke quite fondly of her time at PVCC and had a very positive experience. She also provided me with tons of helpful tips and recommendations based on her experience to make my transition to college as smooth as possible. So naturally, I was eager to follow in my mother’s footsteps. As a senior at Thunderbird High School, I became aware of the President’s Honors Scholarship after having a conversation with my guidance counselor where I was informed about my eligibility. Upon graduation, I became a member of the Honors Program during my first semester at PVCC. However, due to working a grueling retail job with an inflexible schedule, I had trouble keeping up with my classes and was unable to fully utilize the on-campus resources and opportunities that were available to me. As a result, I was placed on academic probation and considered dropping out. However, after doing some soul-searching, it was important to me to finish what I started by giving PVCC another chance. It was the best decision I could have ever made for myself.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC? And what year did you graduate?

Initially, I was undecided about what I wanted to major in. Throughout my entire time at PVCC, I changed my major multiple times as my interests were constantly changing. I ended up graduating from PVCC with my AA in journalism in the Fall of 2020.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

There are so many amazing memories I could share from my experience at PVCC that it’s hard to narrow it down to just one or two! For starters, it was amazing to be featured on the President’s Honor List multiple times and to be recognized for my hard work. However, the most memorable aspect of my PVCC experience was serving as a Student Ambassador for a semester post-graduation. This experience not only allowed me to utilize my social media presence for a good cause, but it opened many doors to connect with other students, faculty, and staff and participate in more on-campus events. Most notably in March 2022, I was chosen by Versha Anderson to be one out of 3 students to host the MCCCD’s diversity awards ceremony and was introduced by President Dr. Dale; which was a huge honor.

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why? 

To me, PVCC is an uplifting, safe, welcoming, and supportive environment filled with ambitious students all striving for self-improvement. Besides the beautiful campus and amazing resources they offer, I highly recommend PVCC to everyone because the class sizes are small, they have a huge variety of learning options to fit your schedule, and the faculty are highly dedicated and invested in ensuring the success of their students. It is the best place to save money on tuition compared to what you might pay at a university, and the skills I learned here prepared me greatly for transferring to the university level. Last but not least, PVCC gave me the opportunity to thrive as a student.

What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?

Some pieces of advice I have for PVCC students include not being afraid to ask for help - whether it’s from your professors, advisors, or even tutors. Also, don’t hesitate to get involved in any clubs or organizations that speak to you and your interests! If you’re shy and have trouble making new friends, just be yourself and put yourself out there! Everyone will accept you for who you are.

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

Since graduating from PVCC, I have worked diligently to complete my elective credits at PVCC spanning three semesters in preparation for beginning the 90/30 transfer program through Northern Arizona University. I recently began my undergraduate journey through NAU online and am currently working towards earning my Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies majoring in Applied Human Behavior. I am expected to graduate in Spring 2024. Upon graduation, I am determined to pursue internship opportunities in the psychology field. My long-term goal is to work towards becoming an LCSW or LPC while running my own counseling practice.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

My personal suggestion for choosing your ideal educational/career path would be to take the Career Exploration course. It provided me with a lot of clarity and direction through the assigned interpersonal reflections. I would also suggest taking as many classes as you can on subjects that interest you to see if they will be the right fit for you!

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

So far, one of my greatest successes has been learning how to effectively work collaboratively with a team, navigate conflict resolution, and strengthen my social and interpersonal skills. However, one of my greatest challenges has been learning how to balance my creativity and professional skills to find the career path I am most passionate about.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

My experiences at PVCC directly impacted my work because they were a big contributor to strengthening my work ethic and critical thinking skills.