Inside Mesa

The Tribune’s coverage of the MCC’s current initiatives presented at the MCC Business & Industry Institute gave accurate highlights of what’s to come. I was honored to have been invited, and attended with great anticipation for - The Mesa Community College Downtown Campus "Putting the Pieces Together" presentation earlier this month.The 15th Semi-Annual Meeting - Commission on Excellence in Education, was exceptional! The highlights of growth and partnership coincide with "MCC For The 21st Century: 4 Campuses. Imagine - 1. MCC at Southern and Dobson - Comprehensive2. MCC at Red Mountain - Comprehensive3. MCC Downtown Campus AND Partnership Programs - Advanced Technology, Community Learning, Health and Public Safety.4. MCC Virtual Campus Online - Internet Courses, Worldwide Delivery.Speakers of distinction included Dr. John D. Haeger, NAU President retired (well known for their internet program success), Chief Harry Beck, City of Mesa Fire Department - Fire Science Collaborative, Brent Cope, Chief Executive Officer, Mesa General Hospital/IASIS - Health Care Collaborative, Deputy City Manager Debra Dollar, City of Mesa - Library Collaborative - I am excited about this one and the others! Think of the possibilities and influence possible in partnering with this group!Dr. Larry K. Christiansen, President, MCC provided an overview and vision of the possibilities, the reality of an urban MCC Campus and a commitment to community alliances. What a boost for the City of Mesa, its citizens, up and coming leaders, and life long learners who are looking for the training and education necessary to advance or enhance their job skills.Several students received scholarships, many more donated toward future scholarship funding. I was amazed at the instant generosity of so many individuals. Chris Brady, Mesa City Manager added his remarks toward MCC’s efforts, Barbara Carpenter, Chair, Commission on Excellence in Education facilitated this excellent event, Jared Langkilde, MCC recognized as an integral part for this work, along with appreciation and support of Deb Duvall, Superintendent, Mesa Public Schools.Phil Austin, President, MAHC (Mesa Association of Hispanic Citizens) gave us an update of the 2nd Annual Mesa Minority & Small Business Symposium coming up on Wednesday, March 8, 2006, also held at the MCC Downtown Center.It was an enjoyable, fulfilling experience - and luncheon - to be part of and see the community come together to hold up and value the importance of our education and higher educational systems.