College marks quarter-century milestone with Silver Anniversary Gala, activities, and the launch of the Alumni Legacy Scholarship Fund
For the past 25 years, Estrella Mountain Community College, part of the Maricopa Community College District, has strived to create an environment for student success; a place in the West Valley where learners can transform their lives through higher education, helping to build a stronger community. The event is also an opportunity for EMCC to thank the many people who have helped create a legacy of excellence in higher education. The Silver Anniversary Gala is the college’s signature celebratory event. It takes place on April 15 at the Wigwam Resort in Litchfield Park, and includes a reception, dinner, silent auction, and program in commemoration. Gala tickets and sponsorships are available to students, alumni, and community and business partners.
This special evening also recognizes EMCC’s milestone with the launch of the Alumni Legacy Scholarship Fund, which recognizes the recent formation of the EMCC Alumni Association. This fund will play a direct role in maintaining the standard of excellence in serving students that the college has established. It is always the hope that by removing as many obstacles as possible, more students will be able to enroll in higher education programs. Gala proceeds will directly benefit the fund to support student scholarships.
Recently addressing the milestone, EMCC President, Dr. Ernest A. Lara outlined the college’s growth since its humble beginnings in an Avondale shopping center. “Estrella Mountain has grown to be a premier institution locally, regionally and nationally. In 2016, the College was recognized as an Aspen Award finalist for the fourth consecutive time, the only college in Arizona to achieve this distinction. Our outstanding staff and faculty continue to lead the way in higher education, winning numerous awards and recognition for pioneering programs and practices to improve the futures of students through teaching, learning and caring.”
Estrella Mountain began its anniversary celebrations in January, and will continue to host a variety of student and community events throughout 2017. Special events have included the Tale of Two Cities parade and festival, an Arizona Coyotes game night, and family movie night on the lawn of the EMCC Performing Arts Center. Including the community in campus events is valuable to EMCC, as it allows the college’s faculty, staff, students, and volunteers the opportunity to show their appreciation for the area’s residents, businesses, and community partners.
Lara is positive about what is to come for Estrella Mountain Community College. “The future is one filled with great promise, and we are inspired by the opportunities that lie ahead for current and future students, and alumni who have built a legacy of excellence for Estrella Mountain.
To learn more about the Silver Anniversary Gala, view a history of EMCC achievements, and see upcoming anniversary events, visit www.estrellamountain.edu/25.