News
Noland Arbaugh speaks at AWC on April 28
April 14, 2026Yuma, Ariz. (April 14, 2026) – On April 28th, Arizona Western College is proud to invite the community to a special event featuring inspirational speaker Noland Arbaugh.
Arbaugh, a Yuma native, made history as the first recipient of the Neuralink brain implant after suffering a spinal injury in 2016 that left him paralyzed. The implant allows him to perform digital tasks with his mind, and Arbaugh has returned to independent ventures such as continuing his studies, competing in chess, and even starting a business. As a new student at AWC this year, Arbaugh is studying Biology with the goal of becoming a neuroscientist.
“At Arizona Western College, we're passionately committed to our community and mission of dismantling educational barriers for everyone,” said AWC Director of Military and Support Services Jose Vega, “Join us for an unforgettable afternoon with Noland Arbaugh, whose resilient journey mirrors that very promise.”
“Paralyzed after a diving accident, Noland defied overwhelming odds to pursue higher education, captivating the world through features in The New York Times, The Guardian, Bloomberg, and The Joe Rogan Experience,” Vega continued. “He'll inspire you to shatter your own limitations and affirm AWC's unwavering support for its students.”
The event will take place on Tuesday, April 28 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Matador Activity Center (MAC) of the Yuma Campus, Room 106. A campus map can be found here.
For more information, contact AWC Student Services at (928) 317-7642.
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Contact:
Jose Vega
Director of Military and Veteran Services
Arizona Western College
jose.vega@azwestern.edu
(928) 344-7622