Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) is proud to announce a record-breaking finish to its Winter Campaign in conjunction with the college’s EmpowerED Campaign, which raised more than $50,000 in support of PVCC students and critical student support programs at the college during December. The campaign invited alumni, employees, community members and organizations to rally behind students whose futures depend on access, opportunity, and support. It reflects PVCC’s enduring mission to serve as a pathway to higher education, career advancement, and lifelong learning, especially for students navigating financial uncertainty, work commitments, and family responsibilities.
“This record-breaking campaign speaks to the incredible generosity of our community and their belief in PVCC students,” said Dr. Jana Schwartz, PVCC president. “Every dollar raised through EmpowerEd directly supports students who are working hard to change their lives through education. We are deeply grateful to everyone who invested in our students’ success.”
“Many PVCC students are the first in their families to attend college,” added Mario Marquez, senior development officer in PVCC’s Office of Strategic Partnerships. “EmpowerEd was designed to meet them where they are, ensuring financial barriers do not stand in the way of persistence, completion, and long-term success.”
Turning Generosity Into Opportunity
Through EmpowerEd, donors invested directly in scholarships and student support services that help students remain enrolled, succeed academically, and stay focused on their goals. Every gift, no matter the size, helped open doors, strengthen confidence, and build momentum for students working toward brighter futures.
Funds raised through the campaign mainly supported eight targeted priority areas, allowing donors to align their contributions with causes most meaningful to them:
- Student Success Scholarship and Support Fund
- Puma Empowerment Food and Clothing Center
- Student Emergency Fund
- Bachelor’s Degree Scholarship
- Athletics Scholarship and Support Fund
- Fine and Performing Arts Scholarship Fund
- Dreamer Scholarship Fund
- PVCC Promise Program
Each of these areas plays a vital role in addressing the real-life challenges students face, from food insecurity and emergency expenses to tuition assistance and program-specific support.
A Ripple Effect Beyond Campus
For more than 30 years, PVCC has served the community by preparing students to transfer to universities, enter the workforce, and pursue lifelong learning. While education remains the college’s core focus, EmpowerEd underscores a deeper mission – solving problems, creating opportunity, and transforming lives.
Every gift to EmpowerEd creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond campus. When donors invest in PVCC students, they are also investing in Arizona’s future workforce, economy, and community leadership.
To learn more about EmpowerEd and ongoing opportunities to support PVCC students, visit our website.