Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) proudly recognizes Dr. Casey Durandet, long-standing Physics Professor and passionate advocate for STEM education, as the college’s 2025 Heroes of Education honoree. The Heroes of Education recognition celebrates individuals who rise beyond classroom instruction to transform lives and broaden pathways to success.
Dr. Durandet was celebrated alongside champions from each of the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges at the annual Heroes of Education ceremony hosted by the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation (MCCF), which describes these honorees as courageous, empowered, accomplished, and dedicated.The event honors educational leaders demonstrating extraordinary commitment to students, opportunity, and academic excellence across Arizona. Proceeds from the event support student scholarships and emergency fund needs.
“Heroes start at the local level, and Dr. Durandet is a true champion for our students, our college, and the future of STEM education,” said PVCC President Dr. Jana Schwartz.
A Legacy Built Through Mentorship
With nearly 30 years of teaching at PVCC, Dr. Durandet has shaped generations of learners through her talent for making complex concepts accessible, meaningful, and exciting. Having previously been named one of only 23 faculty nationwide to receive the prestigious Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Award, she has been recognized nationally for her exceptional impact on student learning and engagement.
Students describe her not only as a brilliant scientist, but also as a mentor who sees a student's potential before they do.
"Dr. Durandet is a brilliant and admirable part of Paradise Valley Community College. Her dedication to her students' success, learning, and growth is unmatched, uplifting every single student along their journey here at PVCC,” said former student James Thomson. “In every class, Dr. Durandet's energy, enthusiasm, and passion for teaching are felt by all. She transforms challenges into opportunities and curiosity into confidence. Her influence extends beyond the classroom as Dr. Durandet's commitment to learning leaves a lasting legacy of encouragement, insight, and heartfelt support."
Dr. Durandet’s mission has always been clear; to remove barriers, multiply opportunity, and open doors to STEM careers for every student, especially those historically underrepresented.
Guided by the belief that education changes economic and generational trajectories, Dr. Durandet has established three endowed scholarships at PVCC, along with a legacy gift that will continue supporting students well into the future, by advancing women in STEM, aiding future K–12 educators, and supporting student-athletes pursuing STEM majors. These funds support students who might otherwise struggle to pay for college, ensuring financial limitations do not hinder dreams, talent, or innovation.
“Education lifts our economy and lifts the future prospects of the Valley,” said Dr. Durandet. “My hope is that these scholarships continue helping students take their first steps, whether into labs, classrooms, or breakthroughs not yet discovered. It’s all about the students!”
A Lasting Impact on PVCC and Beyond
Dr. Durandet’s contributions reach well past curriculum. She has built opportunities, mentorship pipelines, and financial support systems that will change lives for decades. She represents the very best of what community colleges offer: access, inspiration, humanity, and possibility.
Paradise Valley Community College congratulates Dr. Durandet on this well-deserved honor and celebrates her continued leadership in shaping Arizona’s next generation of scientists, problem-solvers, engineers, and educators.
To learn more about PVCC’s STEM program, visit the website. To view all 2025 Heroes of Education honorees, click here.