Service Learning Student Makes History

Twenty-year-old Chandler-Gilbert Community College Pecos Campus student, Matheu Gonzales, is using history to take service-learning to new heights.  Through his projects, Mr. Gonzales’ “service” is to create and preserve awareness of important historical people and events.  This impressive pursuit, its results and Mr. Gonzales’ account of his experience are vivid examples of the impact that service-learning can have on the student as well as society.  We had the opportunity to discuss with Mr. Gonzales what history, service learning and these projects have meant to him.

Connection: Your service learning projects are getting a lot of attention. Would you describe them to us?

Gonzales: My service learning topics included a biography of a man who played a part on making the Mexican School in Gilbert matter to the kids who attended the school. The man was Wayne McFrederick, he had no official biography until I was assigned to craft one for him.

Connections: Fascinating! How did you go about unearthing all the biographical information?

Gonzales: During this project I needed to work as a detective. With no formal information laid out in a single document I had to constantly research, send emails and letters to people who may know any information on Mr. McFrederick. It was a challenge, I began my research at the Gilbert Historical Museum. There I flipped through newspapers from the 1930’s on up. I moved onto data bases finding a little more than what the papers offered. I could not even find an obituary, or the actual day he had died.

Little by little, the information came and thankfully I was blessed to have received his obituary from a library in California, where he had moved and later died. I could not have found this without guidance and support from my mentor Danette Turner or the Gilbert Historical Museum which graciously allowed me to add to their collection of Gilbert History.

Connections: What has this project meant to you?

Gonzales: This project has meant a lot to me, I was trusted enough to share what this man had done for that community and those students. Being the first person to write about Wayne McFrederick’s life was an honor and a blessing, and I thank my professor Mrs. Turner for helping me on my journey

Connections: What about your other project?  Can you share a little about that?

Gonzales: My second project was scanning World War II pictures for the East Valley Jewish Society. During this I had to be very delicate with the photos. I wore surgical gloves to avoid damaging the photos with the oils of my hands.

Connections: Handling historical photos is not something most history students get to do.  What all did you see in these photos? 

Gonzales: I was able to see a theatre of war, as well what made World War II so infamous, pictures of the Holocaust. These pictures were taken by the United States Army themselves, they included more pictures of the horrid Holocaust.

After scanning these images, I was later told that they were traced back to the Monuments Men expedition. The expedition goal was to reclaim art, and history that the Nazis had stolen and were to be destroyed if Hitler lost the war. Hollywood made a major motion picture of the story, I am thrilled that I was somewhat a part of all of that…even if it only meant scanning the photos to my computer.

Connections: Wow, it must feel exciting to be a part of such magnificent history.  What did you learn throughout this experience? 

Gonzales: Doing this project had shed some light on everything that I have learned about World War II. It allowed me to see the war through a soldier’s point of view.  It also made me aware of the tragic reality that some historians claim the Holocaust never happened.  Pictures are a solid way of proving that it did; in a court of law it is said “It is not what you know, it is what you can prove in court” and I believe that’s a rule that is constantly followed in society. 

Connections: Where can fellow students and members of the community see your work?

Gonzales: Finishing this project will allow the East Valley Jewish Society, Chandler-Gilbert Community College and Mesa Community College to create an exhibit with the photos I scanned. I am very proud to know that my name will be associated with this exhibit.

Connections: Clearly your passion is history and historical research.  Can you share why?

Gonzales: Text books that students are assigned to read starting in high school are worded in a way that the author wants you to think about the subject…bad or good. Researching raw information allows for an unbiased way of thinking, allowing you to take the information in and form your own opinion. History can be swayed easily to a view someone wants you to see.

Historical research also preserves what should not be forgotten, the Holocaust and World War II, and brings to light pieces of history that should not live in the shadows, Wayne McFrederick. 

Connections: After this rich experience, what is your perspective on service-learning?
       
Gonzales: At the start of service-learning I had no idea that it existed or what it was.  I now know what it is as well as how important it is not just to a history student but to every student. It allows you to gain valuable experience in the field in which you are majoring. I am grateful for service learning and the opportunities it has led to for me and can lead to for anyone.

Guess Who is Hiring?

Get a head start on 2017 with a new job. Here are more than 80 companies, government entities and non-profit organizations collectively advertising more than 25,000 open positions across Arizona this month. Each of these employers is looking to fill at least 100 jobs.

Stop by CGCC Career Services for assistance with resumes and interviewing tips.

Accenture, hiring 230. The company provides management consulting, as well as technology and outsourcing services. More info: www.accenture.com/us-en/careers/jobsearch.

Advantage Sales and Marketing, hiring 150. The marketing company has a variety of sales-related positions available. More info: careers.advantagesolutions.net.

Aetna, hiring 130. The health-care benefits company has openings ranging from customer service representatives to pharmacists. More info: www.aetna.jobs.

AlliedBarton Security, hiring 160. The security services company has openings for security officers. More info: jobs.alliedbarton.com.

Amazon.com, hiring 200. The online retailer is adding help at its Phoenix warehouse. More info: workatamazonfulfillment.com.

American Express, hiring 170. The financial services company is adding jobs in the Phoenix area. More info: careers.americanexpress.com.

Aramark, hiring 200. The food service and uniform maker has jobs available from cashier to information technology. More info: aramark.com/careers.

Department of Economic Security, hiring 130. The state agency has openings ranging from secretaries to case managers. More info: jobs.azdes.gov.

Arizona State University, hiring 320. The state university is filling an assortment of jobs, from receptionists to faculty instructors. More info: cfo.asu.edu/hr-applicant.

Army National Guard, hiring 140. The guard is looking for positions ranging from infantry to analysts. More info: jobs.nationalguard.com/ngb/browse_by_state/Arizona.

Bank of America, hiring 410. The bank and financial services company is adding positions in the Phoenix area. More info: careers.bankofamerica.com.

Banner Health, hiring 1,580. The non-profit company operates hospitals and other medical services. More info: www.bannerhealth.com/Careers/Job+Search+and+Apply/Job+Search.htm.

Best Version Media, hiring 270. The neighborhood information publishing company has openings in publishing, sales and design. More info: bestversionmedia.com.

Brookdale, hiring 230. The company is hiring for positions from nurses to social services directors. More info: www.brookdalecareers.com.

Celadon Trucking, hiring 850. The trucking and transportation company is adding drivers and other positions. More info: http://www.driveceladon.com/.

Chico’s, hiring 230. The fashion retailer that operates Chico’s, White House Black Market and Soma has openings for store managers and sales associates. More info: jobs.chicos.com.

Chipotle, hiring 250. The Mexican-themed restaurant is hiring for a variety of positions. More info: careers.chipotle.com.

City of Phoenix, hiring 160. The city has openings ranging from accountants to police. More info: www.phoenix.gov/employment.

Community Health Systems, hiring 250. The health-care company is adding jobs in Tucson from nurse practitioner to scheduling clerks. More info: www.careershealthcare.com.

CRST International, hiring 460. The trucking and transportation company is adding drivers and other positions. More info: www.crst.com/careers/opportunities/.

CVS Health, hiring 720. The company operates pharmacies and retail centers across the country. Locations in metro Phoenix, Tucson, Prescott, Lake Havasu City and Yuma have openings. More info: jobs.cvshealth.com/article/retail-jobs.

Deloitte, hiring 160. The consulting and financial advisory company has openings ranging from cyber-risk consultant to SAP HR manager. More info: http://jobs.deloitte.com/phoenix-jobs.

Department of Veterans Affairs, hiring 200. The Tucson and Phoenix offices have openings. More info: www.tucson.va.gov/careers/index.asp.

Dignity Health, hiring 680. The medical center seeks speech pathologists, certified nurse midwives, social workers and physicians in the Phoenix area. More info: dignityhealthcareers.org/careers/jobs.

Dish Network, hiring 200. The satellite television company is adding jobs from account managers to installers. More info: careers.dish.com.

Domino’s, hiring 500. The pizza delivery company is hiring drivers, customer service representatives and managers. More info: jobs.dominos.com/dominos-careers.

Edward Jones, hiring 320. The financial services company has openings ranging from insurance service specialists to team leaders. More info: http://careers.edwardjones.com/index.html.

Freeport-McMoRan, hiring 230. The mining company has openings ranging from chemist to mechanic. More info: http://fmjobs.com/.

Fry's Food Stores, hiring more than 1,170. The grocer with 119 locations in Arizona is part of the Kroger chain. More info: jobs.frysfood.com.

General Dynamics, hiring 240. The aerospace and defense company has openings ranging from software engineers to customer service representatives. More info: http://www.generaldynamics.com/careers/job-search.

Grand Canyon Education, hiring 190. The company operates Grand Canyon University, a private, for-profit Christian school. More info: jobs.gcu.edu/jobs.

Great Clips, hiring 150. The company operates hair salons across Arizona. Locations with openings include Casa Grande, Buckeye, Mesa and Phoenix. More info: www.greatclips.com.

Hilton Worldwide, hiring 230. The hotel and resort operator is adding jobs from housekeeper to engineer. More info: jobs.hiltonworldwide.com.

Home Depot, hiring 330. The home improvement and construction retailer is adding positions in the Phoenix area. More info: careers.homedepot.com.

Honeywell, hiring 150. The aerospace company has openings ranging from engineer to marketing associate. More info: http://www.careersathoneywell.com/.

HonorHealth, hiring 670. The company operates acute-care hospitals and outpatient centers, among other medical services. More info: jobs.honorhealth.com/jobs-page.

IASIS Healthcare, hiring 230. The acute-care health company has openings from admitting managers to business analysts. More info: jobs.iasishealthcare.com.

Indian Health Service, hiring 520. The government agency is hiring for positions ranging from administrative support to physician. More info: www.ihs.gov/jobs/index.cfm.

Intel Corp., hiring 170. The semiconductor manufacturer is adding jobs from data scientists to research engineers. More info:intel.com/content/www/us/en/jobs/jobs-at-intel.html

JCPenney, hiring 350. The retailer is adding positions in Tucson. More info: jobs.jcp.com.

JPMorgan Chase, hiring 370. The bank and financial services is adding positions across Arizona. More info: careers.jpmorgan.com.

Knight Transportation, hiring 220.The trucking and transportation company is adding drivers and other positions. More info: http://www.knighttrans.com/Careers/.

Legacy Traditional Schools, hiring 250. The charter school has openings ranging from teachers to food services. More info: careers.legacytraditional.org.

Lockheed Martin, hiring 140. The defense manufacturer has openings ranging from material handler to systems administrator. More info: www.lockheedmartinjobs.com.

Lowe’s, hiring 150. The home improvement and construction retailer is adding positions in the Phoenix area. More info: jobs.lowes.com.

Maricopa Community Colleges, hiring 120. The school system has openings ranging from systems administrator to student services specialist. More info: https://hr.maricopa.edu/jobs.

Maricopa County, hiring 100. The county has openings ranging from custodians to dietitians. More info: https://jobs.maricopa.gov/.

Maricopa Integrated Health System, hiring 170. The system is hiring for positions ranging from radiologists and registered nurses to appointment schedulers and food-service workers. More info: jobs.mihs.org.

Marriott, hiring 440. The hotel and resort company is hiring various positions at all levels across the state. More info: jobs.marriott.com.

Mayo Clinic, hiring 190. The hospital has positions ranging from instrument technician to pharmacist. More info: www.mayoclinic.org/jobs/locations/arizona.

McDonald's, hiring 260. The restaurant chain is adding positions. More info: www.mcdonalds.com/us/en/careers.html.

Northern Arizona Healthcare, hiring 110. The health system has openings for positions ranging from accounting to nurse practitioner. More info: nahealth.com/careers/current-positions.

Northwest Medical Center, hiring 110. The Tucson hospital has openings ranging from scheduling clerk to registered nurses. More info: jobs.northwestmedicalcenter.com.

Oracle, hiring 780. The company provides cloud applications, platform services and engineered computer systems. The company is adding jobs in Phoenix and Tucson. More info: www.oracle.com/corporate/careers.

Orbital ATK, hiring more than 100. The aerospace and defense company is looking for candidates for positions ranging from engineers to inspectors. More info: www.atk-jobs.com.

Panther Premium Logistics, hiring 340. The transportation company has openings for territory managers and other positions. More info: http://join.pantherpremium.com/HR.

Paradise Valley Unified School District, hiring 110. Paradise Valley schools are seeking to fill positions ranging from coaches to teachers and support staff. More info: www.pvschools.net/Page/158.

Peoria Unified School District, hiring 150. The Northwest Valley school system is filling jobs for a range of positions, from custodians to teachers. More info: applitrack.com/peoriaud/onlineapp.

PetSmart, hiring 170.The company provides pet supplies and services. More info: careers.petsmart.com.

Pizza Hut, hiring 430. The pizza restaurant and delivery chain is adding jobs in the Phoenix area. More info: jobs.pizzahut.com.

Raytheon, hiring 650. The company specializes in defense, civil government and cybersecurity. The jobs are mainly in the Tucson area. More info: jobs.raytheon.com.

Regis Corp., hiring 160. The hairstyling company that operates Supercuts, SmartStyle and other salons has openings for stylists and management positions. More info: http://www.regiscorp.com/NA/Careers/.

Republic Services Inc., hiring 110. The garbage collection company is filling positions ranging from drivers to analysts. More info: republicservices.jobs.

Sears Holdings Corp., hiring 250. The company includes Sears, Kmart and related brands. More info: jobs.sears.com.

Sonora Quest Laboratories, hiring 110. The laboratory system is adding positions ranging from laboratory technicians to sales and marketers. More info: www.sonoraquest.com/careers.

Sprouts Farmers Market, hiring 200. The Phoenix-based grocer is adding positions ranging from cashier to store manager. More info: www.sprouts.com/web/guest/careers.

Starbucks, hiring 150. The coffee company has openings ranging from barista to store manager. More info: www.starbucks.com/careers.

State of Arizona, hiring 350. The government is filling positions ranging from customer service jobs to grant coordinators. More info: azstatejobs.azdoa.gov.

Swift Transportation, hiring 680. The trucking and transportation company is adding drivers and other positions. More info: joinswift.com.

Taco Bell, hiring 400. The restaurant chain is adding positions in the Phoenix area. More info: jobs.tacobell.com.

Target Corp., hiring 190. The retailer is adding positions across the state. More info: jobs.target.com.

Tenet Healthcare, hiring 650. The company that includes Abrazo Community Health Network operates hospitals, outpatient centers, among other health services. More info: tenethealth.com/careers/join-our-team.

Toys “R” Us, hiring 170. The toy and baby products retailer has 13 stores in the Phoenix and Tucson areas. More info: www.toysrusinc.com/careers.

Tucson Medical Center, hiring 190. The hospital is looking to fill positions ranging from registered nurses to security officers. More info: jobs.tmcaz.com.

Tucson Unified School District, hiring 460. The school system is looking for candidates for positions ranging from teachers to custodians. More info: jobs.tusd1.org.

UnitedHealth Group, hiring 350. The medical insurer is hiring for positions ranging from phone-service representatives to nurse practitioners. More info: careers.unitedhealthgroup.com.

University of Arizona, hiring 630. The university is adding positions in Tucson ranging from counselors to research assistants. More info: uacareers.com.

UPS, hiring 160. The package delivery service has openings for package handlers and supervisors. More info: https://www.jobs-ups.com/.

US Bank, hiring 140. The bank is hiring for positions ranging from teller to small business specialist. More info: www.usbank.com/careers/index.aspx.

U-Haul, hiring 130. The transportation and propane-services company has openings ranging from customer representatives to area field manager. More info: jobs.uhaul.com.

Walmart, hiring at least 100. The retailer has a variety of positions available across the state. More info: careers.walmart.com.

Washington Elementary School District, hiring 110. The school district is hiring teachers, psychologists and nutrition workers. More info: jobs.wesdschools.org/jobs.

Wells Fargo, hiring 850. The company provides banking and other financial services. More info: wellsfargojobs.com.

CGCC Concert Choir Raising Funds for Dream Performance at Carnegie Hall

The 50-member Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) Concert Choir has been invited to the preeminent Carnegie Hall in New York City to attend the Mid-America Productions Spring Festival Chorus April 3-7, 2017. This milestone includes participation in musical clinics and a live performance on the historic stage. As one of only four choirs in the nation to receive an invitation, this honor arguably places CGCC among the leading concert choirs in the U.S.

“Beyond the much-deserved recognition and the thrill of traveling to New York, the educational component of this experience will be invaluable to music students,” expressed Marcus Denton, Director of Choral, Vocal and Piano Music Studies at CGCC. “It is a three-day residential clinic with Dr. J. Edmund Hughes (nationally known choral conductor and composer, and former director of the CGCC Concert Choir), studying one of the most revered choral works of the 20th century--John Rutter's Requiem, and culminating in its performance on the Carnegie Hall stage.”

For this reason, Denton, the CGCC Performing Arts Department, CGCC and the choir members themselves are actively seeking student sponsors and other donors to help make this dream a reality. The total cost of the trip is estimated at $72,000, or $1,800 per student, including travel, event registration, and hotel. Each student will contribute $750, or $30,000 total, toward that cost, and the college, with support from the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation, is working to raise the balance of $42,000.  The reality is that this trip and performance will truly be life-changing for our students.

Denton has been crafting the performance quality of the CGCC Concert Choir for years and he understands that it takes a village, and determination, to build national recognition. “Many of the students who are going were part of previous Concert Choirs at CGCC, and have been part of the legacy that led up to the invitation,” shared Denton.  “Many are new and have come to us as graduates from our very effective surrounding valley high school programs, and have already contributed tremendous talent from Day 1 on this campus. Together, we have seen CGCC Choir become one of the premiere collegiate choral groups in Arizona and beyond, known for its quality and high level of musicianship.”

By sponsoring a student, one not only provides a “life-changing” experience but it is also a key contribution to the growing CGCC tradition of fine music making and excellence in the performing arts.  Anyone interested in sponsoring a student can visit www.mcccdf.org/carnegie and follow the simple instructions to make your donation.

CGCC & Intel Educate Latina Students in STEM

Over 200 East Valley middle school students attended the annual Hermanas: Diseña Tu Futuro (Design Your Future) Conference on Friday, November 18 at the CGCC Williams Campus in Mesa. The event aimed to raise awareness of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education and Latinas in STEM related career fields.

Students participated in a variety of fun, interactive workshop activities about solar cells, DNA, coding, physics, astronomy and chemistry. During lunch, the students had the opportunity to visit with representatives from local colleges and universities during the college fair.  They also engaged in the Latina Town Hall session with special guest speakers Anna Tanguma-Gallegos with the Arizona Science Foundation and Erika Diaz a former Hermanas participant, University of Arizona graduate and current medical school applicant.


12 News’ JR Cardenas spent the morning chatting with Hermanas founder Gabriela Gonzalez and students about the importance of Hermanas and STEM education. 

Click here to view. 

CGCC’s "A Christmas Carol" Production That Gives Back

Scrooge, Tiny Tim, the Ghost of Christmas Present, Future and Past are back.  Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s (CGCC) presentation of the Charles Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol” will once again usher in the holidays at the Arnette Scott Ward Performing Arts Center in Chandler on December 1st – 3rd.

“It never ceases to amaze me the total effort that goes into making this a successful production,” shared Tracy Liz Miller, Director of Theatre Arts at CGCC.  She is referring to the over 30 CGCC students who have been rehearsing for over two and a half months to fill roles onstage as actors and backstage as scenic and costume shop workers.  “We also have cast 15 children from the community to be in the show,” added Miller, “and we are enormously grateful to their parents whose dedication has made this special addition to the production a possibility.”

“A Christmas Carol” has evolved into a biannual performing arts tradition at CGCC, but it has also become a community-centered event that embraces the season of giving.  "Any kind of service to the community is a great addition to our hard work in rehearsals," explained Marc Denton, production Music Director and Director of Choral, Vocal and Piano Music Studies.

This year the production is partnering with the CGCC office of Student Life's campus-wide Adopt a Family program to sponsor a food drive.  Their contribution will be non-perishable food that audience members can bring to the show. Food donation baskets will be at the box office to accept donations.

"I think it is important for the cast and crew to not only work hard to deliver this beautiful story about Scrooge's journey towards love, light, and charity but to also live it ourselves.” Expressed Miller.  “I can't think of a better way to serve our community.”  This philosophy is most underscored by the cast and crew who will adopt one of the larger families in the initiative and gather donations towards that family's needs.

The Arnette Scott Ward Performing Arts Center will also be showcasing their new sound system installed over the summer.  This was a dire need after the original system began to fail last year after having been in continuous operation since the building's opening in 2002.

Show Details:
“A Christmas Carol” by Alan Menken, Lynn Ahrens, Mike Ockrent
Arnette Scott Ward Performing Arts Center - 2626 E. Pecos Rd. in Chandler.

Performance Schedule:
•    December 1, 2, 3 at 7:30 pm
•    December 3 at 2 pm

Tickets:
Ticket prices are $12 for general admission, $10 for seniors, $10 for students, faculty & staff, and can be purchased by calling (480) 732-7343.

Hermanas Conference Promotes Science, Technology, Engineering and Math to Latina Middle School Students

This Friday, over 200 middle school Latina students from surrounding East Valley school districts will participate in the annual Hermanas: Diseña Tu Futuro (Design Your Future) Conference at the Chandler-Gilbert Community College Williams Campus in Mesa. The one-day conference hosted by the Intel Corporation in partnership with CGCC, introduces underrepresented Latina students to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) related careers, interact with successful Latinas in STEM fields, receive encouragement to finish school, attend college and to pursue their goals. 

 During the Hermanas Conference students will engage in fun, interactive workshop activities about solar cells, DNA, coding, physics, astronomy and chemistry. In addition to the activities, students will have the opportunity to attend a college fair, participate in the Latina Town Hall and listen to encouraging words from special guest speakers Anna Tanguma-Gallegos, Arizona Science Center and Erika Diaz; former Hermanas participant, University of Arizona graduate and current medical school applicant. 

 

Click here to read more information about the Hermanas Conference

 

CGCC to Host Native American Book Author on November 16

Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) is honored to host Dr. Andrew Needham, Associate Professor of History at New York University and author of “Power Lines: Phoenix and the Making of the Modern Southwest” for a discussion and book signing event as part of CGCC’s Native American Heritage Month activities.  The event will be held this Wednesday, November 16 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Pecos Campus Agave Room 1240. During the presentation, Dr. Needham will read excerpts from his book and participate in a Q&A session with attendees.

 

Dr. Needham’s book is based on the growth of Phoenix’s reliance on electricity and resources from the neighboring territory of the Navajo Nation. “Power Lines: Phoenix and the Making of the Modern Southwest” explores the often-untold story of Phoenix’s growth—a federally subsidized postwar boom that exploited the Navajo Nation and spurred the roots of the contemporary coal-fueled climate change crisis. This event is free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase onsite.

 

Circle Mirror Transformation Debuts on November 17

CGCC Fall Production a Must See

Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) Performing Arts has not let pending technical upgrades to their facility keep them from finding the “perfect fit” performance for this fall’s production.  Circle Mirror Transformation by Annie Baker is the type of character-driven play that Theatre Arts Director, Tracy Liz Miller knew her students and her theatre could do to perfection. 

“Director Kent Burnham suggested this wonderful play by Annie Baker, knowing that we had some terrific older students in our classes that are ready for their opportunity on the stage,” shared Miller.  “It's a perfect fit for our department right now for the students and as we wait for our new dimmer rack and additional equipment."

This the first time CGCC Department of Theatre has produced a fall production in their Studio Black Box and have chosen this low-tech, character-centric play to fit into the space as they wait for additional technical upgrades for more technically sophisticated productions.

The play is layered with intrigue.  When four lost individuals who enroll in Marty's six-week-long community-center drama class begin to experiment with harmless games, hearts are quietly torn apart, and tiny wars of epic proportions are waged and won. A beautifully crafted diorama, a petri dish in which we see, with hilarious detail and clarity, the antic sadness of a motley quintet.

Circle Mirror Transformation by Annie Baker is showing at the Arnette Scott Ward Performing Arts Center located at the CGCC Pecos Campus on November 17th & 19th at 7:30pm with a matinee on the 19th at 2:00pm.  Tickets are $8 general admission and $5 for students.   For more information please visit the website at www.cgc.maricopa.edu/performingarts or call the box office at 480-732-7343.

 

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month at CGCC

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) is a hosting a series of cultural events to celebrate authentic American Indian culture in Arizona. Festivities will kick off with the Native American Heritage Month Festival on Wednesday, November 2 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Student Pavilion at CGCC’s Pecos Campus. The event will feature a live performance from the Indigenous Enterprise and a mini fashion show coordinated by local Native American designer Lehi Thunder Voice Eagle. While in attendance, students can also enjoy authentic fry bread and visit with local Native American organizations.

The Native American events at CGCC are a way for our student community to recognize the rich and diverse cultures, tribes, traditions, and histories of the Native American population," said Katherine Haar, CGCC Student Life Program Specialist. "We encourage our community to attend the events and learn more about the unique Native American culture.”

Additional events include:

11/9/2016  Plants, Inspiring the People: Reflections on Hualapai Ethnobotany of the Grand Canyon presented by Carrie Cannon, 8:30 am to 9:45 am, AGA1240, Pecos Campus

11/16/2016 Dr. Andrew Needham, Author of “Power Lines: Phoenix and the Making of the Modern Southwest” presentation, 1:00 pm to 2:15 pm & 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm, AGA1240, Pecos Campus

11/29/2016 Navajo Story Teller - Kyle Mitchell, 11:00 am to Noon, Bridget Hall, Williams Campus

The free events are open to the public and sponsored by the Vice President of Student Affairs, CGCC Student Life and Leadership, Co-Curricular Programs, International Education and Maricopa Community Colleges District American Indian Early Outreach Office.

November is national Native American Heritage Month, and is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people.

CGCC Educator and Staff of the Year Selected for 21st Annual Gilbert Excellence Awards

Iris Ishikawa and Jennifer Peterson have been selected as Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) Educator of the Year and CGCC Staff Employee of the Year respectively for the 21st Annual Gilbert Community Excellence Awards. The recipients will be publicly recognized and given their awards at the ceremony taking place on Thursday, November 3rd at The Fall Events Center in Gilbert.  The below snapshot of these impressive individuals gives just a glimpse of the reason why they are being honored.  Congratulations Iris and Jennifer!

Iris Ishikawa

Iris Ishikawa-Staff Employee of the Year
Iris Ishikawa is the Administrative Secretary for the Performing Arts Department at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, and she is the living proof of the power of positive thinking.  Regardless of the challenges she faces, her approach always begins with the phrase “we will figure it out”. 

And “figure it out” she has for 21 years at CGCC, and continues to do so each day by supporting four busy performance programs with scheduling, administration and communications not to mention being constantly available to students to answer questions and to offer guidance.  Ultimately, Iris is a professional problem solver, and she does so with excellence. 

As the Performing Arts Department programs grow at a faster pace than budgets, Iris has shown this excellence in her unrelenting ability to stretch resources, plug holes, build bridges and to ensure that the show goes on.  All of these qualities and much more make Iris a natural leader who embodies the qualities and spirit CGCC’s mission and values and as such could not be more deserving of this esteemed recognition.  Congratulations Iris!


Jennifer Peterson-Educator of the Year

Jennifer Peterson

Jennifer Peterson is an Early Childhood and Teacher Education faculty member at Chandler-Gilbert Community College and has built a successful career on being student-centric and a true champion of the art of teaching.  Her breadth and depth of experience and knowledge in the areas of adult learning and faculty professional growth and development afford her a vast array of resources when working to educate, inspire and improve students and faculty alike.  Furthermore, her commitment to personal and professional growth make her an effective leader, occasioning her to constantly improve and subsequently add more value to her programs and community. 

For example, Jennifer took the lead in developing and expanding the Day of Learning into a conference-like experience with 30 workshops and 40 presenters spring 2016 and then expanded to a full fledge conference experience of 35 workshops and over 50 presenters in fall 2016.  This leadership extends to every aspect of her work resulting in a remarkable trail of progress and advancement in her wake. 

In all that Jennifer does, she contributes to CGCC’s mission and values both as CTL Liaison by facilitating the implementation of instructional innovations; and as a teacher, preparing students to teach with energy, passion and commitment.  Jennifer is deserving of this Community Excellence Award and much more.  Thank you for your outstanding leadership Jennifer and congratulations!

CGCC Hosts Annual Veteran Expo for Local Vets

Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s (CGCC) 8th Annual Veterans Resource Expo will be held Thursday, November 3rd from 1 to 4 p.m. at CGCC’s Pecos campus. The event features a resource fair with over 30 college and community groups serving veterans along with a guest speaker program.

This year's speaker is Sgt. Gerry Jones, an internationally-known architect and builder of more than 300 luxury homes (primarily in Arizona), as well as martial arts expert, co-founder of the town of Carefree and holder of the world’s largest private collection of contemporary Chinese art. Sgt. Jones will speak about his experiences as a Marine sniper/scout during World War II, and his additional service during the Korean War teaching self-defense skills to Marines.

“Sgt. Jones’ remarkable achievements are even more remarkable given that he is completely self-taught,” said Reda Chambers, Veterans Services Coordinator at CGCC. “Not only is he a master of some extremely diverse interests, he is also an example of just how far determination and drive can take a person.”

While at the event, veterans and their families can network with local businesses about job opportunities and learn about veteran resources and services offered by CGCC and community groups. The event is also an opportunity for non-veterans, in advance of Veterans Day, to honor those who have sacrificed to serve our country. 

"The Veterans Expo allows us to showcase college and community resources that may help our veteran students be more successful, and gives us an opportunity to offer our heartfelt thanks to CGCC's more than 500 student veterans in the week leading up to Veterans Day," said Chambers. 

Exhibitors from a variety of government and community groups as well as businesses and organizations looking to hire veterans will have tables at the Expo. Among these are the VA and VA Healthcare, VA Vet Centers, Arizona Department of Veterans Services, VFW, American Legion, Veterans Stand-Down and Department of Economic Security and employers such as Home Depot, Chandler Police Department and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University will also have their military outreach specialists in attendance to speak with students about transferring.

The 8th Annual Veterans Expo will be held inside the Agave Building Community Room at the Pecos Campus located at 2626 E. Pecos Rd. from 1 to 4 p.m. Sgt. Jones will address attendees at 2 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, particularly student and local veterans. Complimentary refreshments will be served. 

Empty Bowls Raises Thousands Of Dollars To Fight Local Hunger

Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) raised over $5,000 for the Chandler Christian Community Center (CCCC) to assist families in need of food at the 4th Annual Empty Bowls event on Tuesday, September 20th. The event was sponsored by members of Student Life and the Service-Learning Office. Attendees purchased handmade ceramic bowls for $10 made by the CGCC service-learning ceramic students with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting CCCC.

"We are extremely grateful for those who came out to support the Empty Bowls fundraiser and to help fight hunger in the local community," said Alexandra Cannell, Service-Leaning Coordinator at CGCC. “Our campus community has embraced this event over the past few years and continues to give back to those in need. Because of their efforts, over 260 families in need will receive meals!”

Event attendees were served a 300-calorie meal which included a cup of hot soup and a bread roll donated by Dilly's Deli, Fry’s, Liberty Market and Paradise Bakery. This small portion meal was meant to signify the average number of calories a food-insecure person eats in one day.

Empty Bowls at CGCC is part of a district-wide fundraiser that raises funds for families in support of World Food Day (October 16), a day of action for people around the world to come together to declare their commitment to eradicate hunger.

CCCC's mission and vision is to change lives by nourishing minds and bodies to create a connected thriving community and to have a healthy and productive community built on a foundation of dignity and hope. Each year CCCC distributes over 15,000 food boxes locally with enough food to feed 50,000 adults and children. For more information about CCCC visit www.chandlerfoodbank.org.

Achieve60AZ Alliance Formed to Boost College Degree and Certificate Attainment

Last week, a community-based alliance of business, philanthropic, and education organizations came together with AZ Governor, Doug Ducey, to announce a statewide goal to increase the educational attainment of all Arizonans. 

Today, only 42% of residents (ages 25-64) in the state currently hold a post-secondary certificate, associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or higher – that is fewer than four out of every 10 working adults. Post-secondary completion must be top priority in Arizona in order to boost economic prosperity and national and global workforce competitiveness.

The goal - to ensure that 60% of Arizonans 25 and older have a certificate or college degree by 2030 - is the charge of the alliance. The partners that have joined Achieve60 believe in the value and power of education to change lives and positively influence society. 

Arizona community colleges are proud partners of Achieve60 and are perfectly positioned to address the achievement gap.  Statewide, community colleges serve more than 300,000 students each year, confer more than 43,000 certificates and degrees, and transfer nearly 11,000 students to in-state universities.

The Maricopa Community Colleges alone, offer programs in 95% of the highest demand occupations in the Greater Phoenix area. Each year, nearly half of our 27,000 graduates leave a Maricopa college with an Associate’s degree or a Certificate of Completion in an occupational area of study. 

Relevant workforce training is imperative, but student success goes far beyond the classroom.  The K-12 bridge programs, university transfer pathways, developmental education courses, tutoring, advising, mentoring, and career guidance that community colleges offer are crucial to the success of our students.  The collective effort of the community colleges and the entire Achieve60 alliance will result in greater awareness of the importance of post-secondary education, a knowledgeable and innovative workforce, a higher standard of living, and a thriving business community.

I encourage you to go to ACHIEVE60AZ.com to learn more. 

Maria Harper-Marinick, Ph.D.
Chancellor

CGCC and Maricopa Community Colleges Offer Support and Guidance to ITT Tech Students

In response to the recent closings of three ITT Tech campuses in Maricopa County, the Chandler Gilbert Community College and the Maricopa Community College District are offering support, advice, and academic counseling to the affected students who are in various stages of academic degree or certificate completion.

Chandler Gilbert Community College encourages former ITT Tech students to contact us or the Maricopa Community College nearest them to help them navigate their transition, or complete the online ITT Tech Student contact form. Doing so will ensure that each student will receive individual attention and academic advisement. In this process, enrollment specialists will help students navigate academic program selection, transcript review, and financial aid needs.

Students who complete the ITT Tech Student contact form will be contacted within approximately 7 business days. Access the form by clicking here.

We look forward to seeing you at Chandler Gilbert Community College or at any of the Maricopa Community Colleges.

"Dodging Bullets" Solo Show Coming to CGCC Performing Arts Center

Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) Performing Arts Department is excited to host “Dodging Bullets,” the acclaimed solo show featuring Arizona State University Professor David Barker on Friday, October 7 at 7pm at the Pecos Campus.

Born from a very real, tragic and life-altering experience, David Barker’s latest work is as personal as it is extraordinary.  It is personal in that this solo performer plays ten different roles, including his own mother, in order to immerse the audience in the moment when his brother-in-law tried to kill Barker and his sister.  The quality of Barker’s performance and the fact that everything actually happened to him, an average middle-aged guy who at the exact time of the incident was searching for a meaningful experience in life, makes the show extraordinary.

“We are thrilled to welcome Professor Barker to CGCC and look forward to his performance,” said Randy Wright, Performing Arts Director at CGCC. “Barker’s performance is powerful, entertaining and very real. His ability to transform into10 different characters is astonishing, and we encourage the community to take advantage of this opportunity to see him live.”

On the fateful day of the attack, Barker accompanied his sister and 15-year-old niece on a stop at his recently-divorced sister’s home to pick up asthma medication for his niece. “I went along to protect my sister,” Barker said. “We approached the house and Dr. Jack, my sister’s ex, appeared at the front door and ordered me to leave. Dr. Jack is a high-strung control freak, so when I refused to leave he attacked me.  We grappled briefly and he ran back into the house. My sister, niece and I were in complete shock. He came back with a gun and began to fire.”

This true story plays out with cinematic twists and turns including SWAT teams and arrests as well as the more intimate and revealing story lines of Barker’s parents’ declining health and the trauma he suffered as a result of the Dr. Jack incident.  At the end of this thrilling 65-minute journey, the audience dynamic with Barker is transformed; he is no longer just an actor on stage, but a person with whom you just shared a unique experience. 

A Q&A session about the experience will take place immediately following Barker’s performance. Leslie Marna, Director of My Sister's Place in Chandler, a non-profit formed to serve victims of domestic violence, will lead the discussion in an effort to increase awareness of the organization’s mission.

Admission is free!  Do not miss out on your chance to see Dodging Bullets. The event will be held inside the Arnette Scott Ward Performing Arts Center located at 2626 E. Pecos Road, Chandler, AZ 85225.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at CGCC

In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, CGCC is hosting a Hispanic Heritage Festival on Thursday, October 13 from 11 am to 1 pm inside the Student Pavilion. The event will feature samples of Hispanic foods, entertainment and information about local Hispanic community organizations.

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The CGCC event is sponsored by the Hispanic Student Organization, Office of International Education Program and Student Life.
The event is free and open to the public. For more information on the event or CGCC's Hispanic Student Organization, please contact Greg Wojtovich at 480.857.5213.

CGCC is Hosting Desert Code Camp 2016

Calling all Coders! Chandler-Gilbert Community College, in partnership with the Southeast Valley .NET User Group and the City of Chandler will host “Desert Code Camp” on Saturday, October 8, 2016 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at CGCC’s Pecos Campus in Chandler. 

The Desert Code Camp is an intensive, all-day, technology conference where participants immerse themselves in the most cutting edge coding trends and leading software of our time.  Students and regional software development professionals will be together for a full day in seminars, presentations and networking events. 

Furthermore, this is a free event that is part of an international trend in which peer groups of all platforms, programming languages and disciplines focus on coding and software development.  In doing so, they learn tips and tricks on new technologies and discover new approaches to problem solving. 

More than 100 sessions are currently slated, ranging from Game Development, HTML5 and Linux Operating Systems to Software Development using Java, .NET and Ruby on Rails.  Participants are encouraged to visit the official event website, oct2016.desertcodecamp.com, in order to: 
•    Check out the list of the sessions at http://oct2016.desertcodecamp.com/sessions/all
•    Create an account at http://oct2016.desertcodecamp.com/user/register.
•    Let us know you are coming at http://oct2016.desertcodecamp.com/confirmattendee.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please reach out to Joseph Guadagno at jguadagno@hotmail.com or dial (602) 293-6767.

We look forward to seeing you at camp.  Sign up today!

Project 3D Upcoming Events

The Office of Student Life and Leadership kicked off the Project 3D forum series on September 13 with the official launch event inside the Student Pavilion at the Pecos Campus. A variety of local civic organizations including the Arizona Democratic Party, Arizona GOP, League of Women Voters, East Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Chinese American Phoenix Chapter gathered to educated students on key political issues and register them to vote in the upcoming presidential election.

Project 3D creator and CGCC student Curran Vinson was featured on 12 News where he discussed the vision behind the events and his hope to inspire students to get involved in political change. Click here to view the 12 News segment.

Upcoming Project 3D

•    9/27/2016 - “This Land Is Your Land, This Land Is My Land”: Politics of the Wall, 7pm- 8:30pm Agave Community Room
•    10/5/2016 - Project 3D and Rock the Vote Event, 11:30am - 1pm, Student Pavilion
•    10/18/2016 -Shots Heard Around the World: The Politics of Gun Control in America, 7pm - 8:30pm Agave Community Room
•    11/1/2016 - Social Justice, Diversity, and the New American, 7pm - 8:30pm, Agave Community Room

The voter registration portion of Project 3D is being conducted in connection with Rock the Vote, a non-partisan group that focuses on educating and registering young voters and getting as many as possible to turn out to the polls. This event will include live entertainment, food and guest speakers.

The Project 3D forums are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact katherine.haar@cgc.com or call 480-732-7150.

CGCC Student featured on Channel 12 News

Curran Vinson, CGCC Student. Photo credit: 12News

CGCC student Curran Vinson was featured on 12 News last Thursday to promote the launch of Project 3D. Check out the story here!

CGCC Instructors Back In Action at Military Bases Abroad

Scott Adamson and Linda Meng

Two Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) mathematics faculty, Scott Adamson, PhD., and Linda Meng, have re-enlisted with the Department of Defense Education Agency (DoDEA) to teach college and career ready standards to U.S. educators at military bases overseas. 

For the second year in a row, Dr. Adamson and Professor Meng joined a cohort through the Charles A. Dana Center International Facilitation Fellow Program – a DoDEA Mathematics Professional Learning Initiative, to be trained in Austin, TX and subsequently deployed to their individually assigned bases.  In 2015, Meng served at the U.S. Army Base in Daegu, South Korea and Adamson was at the U.S. Naval Base in Yokosuka, Japan.  This year Meng and Adamson were assigned to U.S. Army Garrison, Ansbach, Germany and U.S. Marine Corps Air Station, Iwakuni, Japan respectfully.

Though the reasons as to why these volunteers recommitted to this service are both personal and varied, the common thread is to fulfill a sense of duty to our country, military families and the field of mathematics.
“In a small way, this program allows me the opportunity to support our military families serving our nation around the world. Specifically, I had the opportunity to build relationships with and support the teachers on base who impact the children and families stationed at the base in Iwakuni,” explained Adamson.  “Through this program, I can share my experience and knowledge of teaching and learning mathematics with the teachers who can then provide these children with a positive school experience.”

Military families often times feel isolated from what is happening “back in the states” and this DoDEA programs helps to ensure their children’s education is at the same level with the latest standards back home.

“I believe it is very important that the children of soldiers receive an education on par with children in the states,” shared Meng. “I also believe that mathematics education needs to evolve to better meet the needs of students, no matter where they live, and these new standards are addressing this change. For me this opportunity was a wonderful way to combine the two.”

It being the second year of the program, not only were the teachers more confident and better prepared, but the curriculum was more sophisticated as well.

“This year we had the opportunity to take a deep dive into two very important mathematical topics – place value and fractions. While last year was an introduction to the new standards, this year focused teachers more on learning effective strategies for helping their students to have a positive experience with making sense of important mathematical ideas,” shared Adamson.

More experience also brought with it more responsibility in year two.  For instance, Meng was assigned four schools in the southern Bavarian region of Germany compared to just one school in South Korea last year.  And more schools meant more teachers to train from a broader range of grade levels, but our CGCC faculty gladly welcomed the work and the impact they were able to make. 

“My son is serving in the U.S. Army as his career. I see first-hand the struggles his family has experienced during his service,” reflects Meng.  “He is the fourth generation of Mengs to serve in the U.S. Army, although he is the first to make it a career.  So this is my way of supporting him, his family, and all the other soldiers and their families who are serving our country, as well as honoring a family's commitment to our nation.”

For more information on the Charles A. Dana Center International Facilitation Fellow Program visit www.utdanacenter.org.

Empty Bowls Fundraiser Fights Hunger One Bowl at a Time

Event Benefits Thousands of Local Families in Need

Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) has teamed up with the Chandler Christian Community Center (CCCC) to fight hunger and raise money for families in need through its Empty Bowls Service-Learning fundraiser event. The event will be held Tuesday, September 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. inside the Pecos Campus Student Pavilion.

Attendees can purchase their own hand-crafted ceramic bowls designed by CGCC Ceramics student artists for $10, and enjoy a cup of soup donated by Dilly's Deli, Fry’s Liberty Market and Paradise Bakery. All proceeds benefit the CCCC to feed those in the community who might otherwise go without food. 

"We are grateful for the opportunity to support Empty Bowls for CCCC through service-learning. It is a unique opportunity for Ceramics students to apply what they are learning in their courses to meet needs in the community," said Alexandra Cannell, Service-Learning Coordinator at CGCC."

Empty Bowls at CGCC is part of a district wide fundraiser that raises funds for families in support of World Food Day (October 16), a day of action for people around the world to come together to declare their commitment to eradicate hunger. Empty Bowls raises thousands of dollars annually for local charities. Last year's event raised over $5,000 for the CCCC.

For more information, contact Service-Learning at 480-732-7069 or by email at alex.cannell@cgc.edu.

Cooper Hall Opens at CGCC William’s Campus

Cooper Hall, Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s (CGCC) newest building, officially opened its doors to students, faculty and staff last month at the Williams Campus. The 11,820 square-foot multifaceted building, welcomes students with a variety of programs including math, electrical utility technology, history, engineering and business.

“We at Chandler-Gilbert Community College are excited about the opening of Cooper Hall and the opportunities this new learning environment will provide to our students,” said William Guerriero, CGCC Interim President. “Cooper Hall is another example of the College’s commitment to providing students with the latest technology to optimize learning and teaching.”

Cooper Hall’s emphasis on engineering, science and technology is intentional and appropriate given its namesake’s legacy. Cooper Hall is named after United States Air Force Colonel Leroy Gordon “Gordo” Cooper, Jr.  (March 6, 1927 – October 4, 2004), better known as Gordon Cooper. He received flight training at Perrin Air Force Base, Texas, and Williams Air Force Base, Arizona. After earning a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology in 1956, Col. Cooper went on to become an aerospace engineer, test pilot, United States Air Force pilot and one of the Mercury Seven, the original NASA astronauts who manned the first flights into space.

“CGCC is thrilled that Cooper Hall will help to preserve Gordon Cooper’s contributions to our nation’s pre-eminence in space exploration through the fields of engineering and science,” said Guerriero. “His legacy will continue to live on through our students and this building.”
   
Designed by Phoenix-based firm Gabor Lorant Architects and DNG Construction, LLC., Cooper Hall features four general classrooms, two engineering and applied technology labs, faculty offices, a conference room and support spaces. The building was funded by the 2004 Maricopa County Community College District bond, built to LEED Silver certification standards and includes 100 percent LED lighting, carbon neutral carpet and ground concrete floors.

An official grand opening event for Cooper Hall will be held at 2 p.m. on October 21st at the Williams Campus located at 7360 E. Tahoe Ave, Mesa, 85212. 

CGCC names Head Coach for Men's Soccer

Chandler Gilbert Community College welcomes new head coach for men's soccer.
First year head coach Richard Esperti comes to the Coyotes with 24 years of coaching experience at high school and club level soccer.

Coach Esperti is taking over the helm after 12 years of excellence as the head coach of Gilbert Mesquie High School (2002-2014), as well as a successful two years with Gilbert Highland High School (2014-2016). He has obtained a NSCAA Premier Diploma and is looking forward to leading the Men’s Program at CGCC this fall.

Please join us in by providing Coach Esperti with a warm Coyote welcome and support your team by coming out to the next game.

CGCC Welcomes Amanda Omar to Women's Volleyball

Chandler Gilbert Community College is pleased to welcome Amanda Omar to Women's Volleyball.

Amanda Omar comes to CGCC with 20 years of coaching and training experience. She has coached in the ACCAC for the last five seasons as an Assistant Coach at Phoenix College and an Assistant Coach for the AZ Region's professional women's volleyball team the AZ Sizzle.

Coach Omar has a Masters Degree in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University, is CAP II certified and a Master Instructor for Volleyball Conditioning and Performance through USAV. She is Gold Medal Squared Certified, and holds additional certifications as a Group Fitness Instructor through ACE and is also a certified  R.I.P.P.E.D. Instructor. Currently, she is the AZ AAU District Director for Volleyball and at various times throughout the year works with the Nokaoi Showcase, The Volleyball Factory, and All-American Volleyball Camps. She is extremely excited to be a part of  the CGCC Athletic family. 

Come out and support women's volleyball at the next game, find the schedule here.

Cooper Hall Opens at CGCC William’s Campus

Cooper Hall, Chandler Gilbert Community College Williams Campus

Cooper Hall, Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s (CGCC) newest building, officially opened its doors to students, faculty and staff last month at the Williams Campus. The 11,820 square-foot multifaceted building, welcomes students with a variety of programs including math, electrical utility technology, history, engineering and business.

“We at Chandler-Gilbert Community College are excited about the opening of Cooper Hall and the opportunities this new learning environment will provide to our students,” said William Guerriero, CGCC Interim President. “Cooper Hall is another example of the College’s commitment to providing students with the latest technology to optimize learning and teaching.”
Cooper Hall’s emphasis on engineering, science and technology is intentional and appropriate given its namesake’s legacy. Cooper Hall is named after United States Air Force Colonel Leroy Gordon “Gordo” Cooper, Jr.  (March 6, 1927 – October 4, 2004), better known as Gordon Cooper. He received flight training at Perrin Air Force Base, Texas, and Williams Air Force Base, Arizona. After earning a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology in 1956, Col. Cooper went on to become an aerospace engineer, test pilot, United States Air Force pilot and one of the Mercury Seven, the original NASA astronauts who manned the first flights into space.

“CGCC is thrilled that Cooper Hall will help to preserve Gordon Cooper’s contributions to our nation’s pre-eminence in space exploration through the fields of engineering and science,” said Guerriero. “His legacy will continue to live on through our students and this building.”
   
Designed by Phoenix-based firm Gabor Lorant Architects and DNG Construction, LLC., Cooper Hall features four general classrooms, two engineering and applied technology labs, faculty offices, a conference room and support spaces. The building was funded by the 2004 Maricopa County Community College District bond, built to LEED Silver certification standards and includes 100 percent LED lighting, carbon neutral carpet and ground concrete floors.

An official grand opening event for Cooper Hall will be held at 2 p.m. on October 21st at the Williams Campus located at 7360 E. Tahoe Ave, Mesa, 85212. 

Happy Labor Day!

We hope your school year is going well! Just a reminder that Chandler-Gilbert Community College campuses will be closed next Monday, September 5th in observance of Labor Day.
Classes will resume on September 6th. Have a great week!

Important Campus Safety Information

The safety of our students, faculty and staff is priority number one at Chandler-Gilbert Community College.  As we kick off another school year, please help us to maintain a safe community and learning environment by familiarizing yourself with the Maricopa County Community College District safety initiatives and protocols found at this link.

In addition, we ask students to please update MEID accounts with up-to-date contact information to receive important emergency communication from CGCC.

We all share in the responsibility of making the learning, living and working environment at Chandler-Gilbert Community College Community College safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Important Contact Numbers:
Emergency: 9-1-1
Pecos Public Safety Office: 480-732-7280
Williams Public Safety Office: 480-988-8888
CGCC Operator: 480-732-7000
Recorded Info: 480-731-8900 & 480-784-0990