AWC students launch Yuma History app
March 7, 2025Mobile app offers virtual tour of Yuma’s history through student writing and voiceovers
Yuma, Ariz. (March 7, 2025) – Arizona Western College recently launched a mobile app that provides a virtual tour of Yuma’s rich history.
The app, titled “Yuma History Virtual Tour,” details the history of local landmarks and historic figures, including the Lutes Gretna Green Wedding Chapel, United States Camel Corps, and E. F. Sanguinetti. Each stop on the tour was curated by an AWC student as part of their historical research projects for English and History courses.
“It's exciting to see students' research and writing find a public platform,” shared English Professor Dr. Ellen Riek. “Not only are they learning about Yuma history, they are sharing what they learn with the community. Adding the audio component makes it possible to hear the students share their work as you follow the virtual tour. We are excited to continue expanding this project in the future.”
AWC students created all written and audio content for the app, while the layout was designed by Dr. Riek and math tutor Raymond Howard through the Cuseum platform.
“When students delve into our local history, they develop deeper connections to the places and people that make Yuma unique. This app gives them a platform to share their research with the public,” History and Sociology Professor Dr. Monica Ketchum-Cárdenas said. Students in Dr. Ketchum-Cárdenas’ classes are currently developing new content for the app.
The research project would not have been possible without the assistance provided by the Rio Colorado Chapter of the Arizona Historical Society, the City of Yuma, and the Yuma and AWC Libraries. Each consulted on the project, offering valuable insights, support, and suggestions for the application. Especially instrumental were Laurie Boone with the Heritage Library and AWC Librarian Tymmi Woods, who provided students with access to necessary historical archives and resources.
Join the tour and learn about Yuma's storied past from our amazing AWC students! The free app is currently compatible with Apple products and can be found on the App Store by searching “Yuma History Virtual Tour.” Download and explore the Yuma History app here.
This project is currently funded through an AWC Innovation Fund grant.
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Contact:
Dr. Ellen Riek
Professor of English
Arizona Western College
ellen.riek@azwestern.edu
(928) 344-7549