News
Arizona Western College hosts fifth-annual Legislative Town Hall
September 16, 2026Yuma, Ariz. (September 16, 2026) – Arizona Western College is proud to host Yuma County’s state elected officials from Districts 23 and 25 as they discuss the outcomes of the 2026 Legislative Session during a public Town Hall event. The Town Hall will highlight recent accomplishments and changes in legislation affecting the Yuma community.
The event will be held on Tuesday, September 22 from 2:00-3:30 p.m. at the Schoening Conference Center in the 3C Building of the AWC Yuma Campus, 2020 S. Ave. 8E. View a campus map here.
“Arizona Western College is honored to continue bringing our legislators and community together for these annual Town Halls,” said AWC President Dr. Reetika Dhawan. “These conversations give students, local residents, and elected officials the opportunity to discuss the issues shaping our region and how they connect to the work happening at the state level.”
Yuma County legislators participating in the panel discussion and public Q&A moderated by Dr. Dhawan include: Sen. Tim Dunn, Rep. Michael Carbone, Rep. Michele Peña, and Rep. Mariana Sandoval. Sen. Brian Fernandez will attend virtually.
"Our community has made it clear that issues such as water, education, public safety, border security, affordable housing, and economic and workforce opportunities are among their highest priorities,” Sen. Dunn (R-LD25) said. “This upcoming Town Hall is an important opportunity to listen, engage, and have an open dialogue with residents about the issues that matter most to them. I encourage everyone to attend, ask questions, share their concerns, and help shape the conversations that will guide our community moving forward.”
Panelists will review this year’s legislative session, address their priorities and strategies to passing the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 state budget, and answer questions about issues of importance to the Yuma community, including water, education, and healthcare.
“Town Halls are an important opportunity to connect in-person with the people we represent, reflect on the work accomplished during the legislative session, and hear directly from our community,” said Rep. Sandoval (D-LD23). “I look forward to discussing the progress we’ve made for Yuma County, while also sharing our vision and priorities for the years ahead. My first and most important responsibility as a legislator is to listen. This ensures the voices and needs of our communities remain at the center of our work, and these conversations are an essential part of fulfilling that responsibility.”
While the event is free and open to the public, individuals interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their seat here.
A private student roundtable conversation with legislators will be held prior to the event.
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Contact:
Mandy Heil
Dean of Marketing and Communications
Arizona Western College
mandy.heil@azwestern.edu
(928) 314-9594