Janet Yazzie, who hails from a long line of weavers and sheepherders, represents the first generation of her Diné family to bring artwork to shows. At Coconino Community College’s 20th annual Palette to Palate, Yazzie, adorned in traditional turquoise and silver jewelry, was as comfortable painting on display as she was in the warmth of her family’s hogan as a child, surrounded by family and love. Drawing inspiration from her Native roots, Yazzie floods her canvases with vibrant contemporary … [Read more...] about Original Artwork and Culinary Creations Celebrated at Palette to Palate
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Education Is Essential to Thriving in High-Cost Communities Like Flagstaff
Flagstaff is one of the most beautiful places in the country – but it’s also one of the most expensive. Skyrocketing housing costs, limited rental availability and an influx of outside investment have made it increasingly difficult for many people, especially young adults and working families, to build a sustainable life here. While there are many necessary conversations to be had about how to reduce the cost of living, we must also talk about the equally critical role of education – especially … [Read more...] about Education Is Essential to Thriving in High-Cost Communities Like Flagstaff
Career, Technical Education: The Lifeblood of Our Communities
As industries adapt to new technologies and shifting workforce demands, building a pipeline of skilled professionals has become essential for business success and economic resilience. One of the most critical yet often overlooked components of this development is Career and Technical Education (CTE). CTE programs provide the specialized training necessary to build a strong workforce, ensuring that businesses in Northern Arizona have access to skilled professionals in high-demand industries. CTE … [Read more...] about Career, Technical Education: The Lifeblood of Our Communities
Major Expansions in Youth Program Unveiled at UWNA Event
The announcement of a $100,000 grant from The NARBHA Institute to expand youth programs and the promise that graduates of the popular KinderCamp program can earn a degree from Coconino Community College free of charge were the highlights of the United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) Annual Campaign and Community Impact Luncheon. “As you know, United Way of Northern Arizona has big, bold goals for our youth and our community,” said UWNA President and CEO Liz Archuleta. “Today, I am proud to … [Read more...] about Major Expansions in Youth Program Unveiled at UWNA Event
CCC and Lowe’s Build Bunk Beds to Help Kids Sleep in Heavenly Peace
More than 1,000 Arizona children may have already crossed off one big item from their holiday wish list: A bed of their own. This after representatives from Coconino Community College, the Lowe’s Foundation, Lowe’s suppliers and the Sleep in Heavenly Peace non-profit organization got together in an incredibly efficient workshop that would have impressed Santa. On a single Monday in October, more than 400 people hammered out 534 bunk beds that Phoenix-area children in need are now sleeping in, … [Read more...] about CCC and Lowe’s Build Bunk Beds to Help Kids Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Lowe’s Foundation Grant to Help CCC Students Develop Skills in Trades
Construction. Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning. Electrical. Plumbing. Flagstaff and Coconino County are struggling with the same issues facing the country: Not enough skilled workers are replacing the current workforce retiring out of their professions, not to mention the growth of the area, increasing the overall demand for skilled workers in the trades. Thanks to a $750,000 grant from the Lowe’s Foundation, CCC is aiming to help address that shortage by muscling up its skilled training … [Read more...] about Lowe’s Foundation Grant to Help CCC Students Develop Skills in Trades
Scholarships Changing Lives at CCC
She’s dealt with poverty and hunger, abusive parents and the foster care system. Yolanda Yazzie has battled many challenges and hardships, but that did not stop her from reaching for a better life for her own family by making the decision to attend Coconino Community College. Her goal is to graduate from CCC, get a degree from NAU and land a career in the hospitality industry. And the journey will be possible, in part, with the help of scholarships awarded through the CCC Foundation. … [Read more...] about Scholarships Changing Lives at CCC
Welcoming CCC Comets to Fall Semester
As we embark on the fall 2023 semester, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and excitement. The energy on campus is palpable, and it’s not just the crisp autumn air. Our enrollment numbers are up, and it’s heartening to see so many new and returning faces eager to embark on their academic journeys at Coconino Community College. First and foremost, I want to extend a warm welcome to each and every one of you. Whether you’re a first-time student, returning after a hiatus, or … [Read more...] about Welcoming CCC Comets to Fall Semester
Honoring our Past by Focusing on our Future
My family and I have been so warmly welcomed to our new home in Coconino County, and I have been busy in my new role as the sixth president of Coconino Community College. My priority upon assuming the post was to embark on a wide-ranging tour of the communities served by CCC to get a better sense of what is expected of your community college. In essence, I came prepared to learn. That meant listening to students, faculty, staff, community members and leaders, alums, partners, champions and even … [Read more...] about Honoring our Past by Focusing on our Future
Community College: A Vital Link for Accessing Higher Education
At Coconino Community College, our dedicated faculty and staff realize that the journey of a thousand leagues begins with the first step, but for too many people, being able to embark on a journey in higher education is a daunting challenge. That’s why we say, “Start small. Go big.” Last month was Community College Month across the nation, and this month, hundreds of CCC’s students will receive degrees or certifications. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone … [Read more...] about Community College: A Vital Link for Accessing Higher Education