CGCC Celebrates 25th Anniversary

It’s been 25 years since Chandler-Gilbert Community College opened its doors to East Valley students. Since then, CGCC has grown to serving educational needs of over 19,000 students at four locations in the Southeast Valley of the Phoenix metropolitan area - the Pecos Campus in Chandler, the Williams Campus in Mesa, the Sun Lakes Center in Sun Lakes and at the Communiversity in Queen Creek.

Students and faculty gathered on October 19 to celebrate the milestone anniversary with a special event at the Williams Campus. Attendees enjoyed free food, music and games. The event wrapped up with an all campus photo commemorating CGCC’s 25 years of service.
“We are so grateful to our Student Activities Board who planned this wonderful event to celebrate CGCC’s silver anniversary,” said Kim Kocak, Williams Campus Student Life Coordinator. “It was awesome to see the CGCC community come together to celebrate CGCC’s commitment to serving the educational needs of students over the past 25 years.”

In addition to the on-campus event, CGCC faculty and staff celebrated the 25th anniversary of CGCC’s initial accreditation with a scholarship fundraiser event on October 12. The event raised over $16,000 for student scholarships. Community leaders and business partners came together with early CGCC employees--many now retired--to recognize those who were instrumental in the formative years of the College. Highlights of the evening included presentations by Maricopa County Community College District Chancellor Maria Harper-Marinick, former Chandler Mayor Jerry Brooks, community activist Sue Sossaman, and CGCC President Emerita Maria Hesse. The audience of 200 enjoyed inspiring musical performances by CGCC students and faculty.

The 25th Anniversary celebration will continue at the Holiday Breakfast on December 15. After we eat all employees are invited to see a special presentation by past CGCC President Maria Hesse and to join in a group photo on the lawn south of Ironwood Hall. Additional information on this event will be provided in email announcements later in the fall semester.

Spring Break!

Just a quick reminder all Chandler-Gilbert Community College campuses will be closed for Spring Break next week March 14-18. Classes will resume as normal on Monday, March 21. Enjoy your time off and see you soon! 

CGCC VP Named Man of the Year Award Among Men of Action

The Chandler Men of Action (CMOE), an African American youth empowerment organization, awarded the 2016 Coy Payne Man of the Year Award to CGCC Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. William H. Crawford III.  This award, which recognizes men who embody the CMOE mission of creating an environment of hope and opportunity for African-American youth, was given to Dr. Crawford for his commitment to educational leadership and the academic success of students in and outside of the classroom.  The presentation took place at the CMOE 4th Annual Banquet and Fundraiser last Friday, February 26 at the Chandler Community Center.

"Dr. Crawford exemplifies leadership in the educational community and beyond through his support, encouragement, and participation in activities and programs that promote educational equity which aligns with the mission and goals of both the Maricopa Community Colleges District and the Chandler Men of Action", said Pastor Victor Hardy, President of the Chandler Men of Action.

Dr. Crawford’s success in education is fueled by his own background as a proud product of the community college system.  He is passionate about student success and the mission of the community college system to respond to the needs of our communities and its residents.  One of the many ways Dr. Crawford helps to fulfill this mission is through frequently speaking to students, parents, and community leaders about the impact of the community college system on his life.
"Bill is an invaluable leader both at Chandler-Gilbert Community College and in the community. He is a consummate professional and a mentor to many at the college, ensuring that every action and activity taken at the college contributes to student success. The college is appreciative that he is being recognized with this honor,” said Dr. William Guerriero, Interim President of CGCC. 
Dr. Crawford offers a unique perspective forged through years of active involvement and a diverse set of experiences.  He is currently Chair of the City of Chandler Merit System Board; Chair of the Si Se Puede Foundation’s Board of Directors and a board member of the East Valley Partnership, East Valley NAACP, and the Chandler Men of Action.  Before transitioning to higher education, William Crawford was employed with the Phoenix Police Department for more than 23 years where he held numerous leadership positions and served with distinction. 

William Crawford holds both Doctorate and Master of Education degrees from Northern Arizona University and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Justice Studies from Arizona State University.

About Chandler-Gilbert Community College
Chandler-Gilbert Community College is one of ten Maricopa County Community Colleges, the largest community college system in the country. CGCC serves the higher education needs of over 19,000 students at four locations in the Southeast Valley of the Phoenix metropolitan area - the Pecos Campus in Chandler, the Williams Campus in Mesa, the Sun Lakes Center in Sun Lakes and at the Communiversity in Queen Creek. CGCC offers degrees and certificates in a variety of fields, university transfer, workforce development programs, and continuing education, along with nationally recognized programs in service learning, learning communities, and civic engagement. For more information, visit cgc.edu or call 480-732-7000.