Pictured left to right: AWC President Dr. Daniel Corr; Ian O’Grady, Policy Advisor for Commerce, Arizona Governor’s Office; Larry Sandigo, Director of Cabinet Affairs, Arizona Governor's Office; and Reetika Dhawan at the IDIA Lighting up the Future Benefit Dinner in Phoenix, Arizona on May 6, 2025.

Reetika Dhawan receives IDIA Community Champion Award

May 19, 2025

Phoenix, Ariz. (May 19, 2025) – At the Lighting up the Future Benefit Dinner in Phoenix, Arizona earlier this month, Reetika Dhawan, Arizona Western Entrepreneurial College Chief Executive Officer and Vice President of Workforce & Healthcare Programs, was honored by the Institution for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA) as the recipient of the Community Champion Award. 

As an advocate for equitable digital access, the IDIA honors individuals and partnerships whose work contributes to Arizona’s digital economy. The Community Champion award recognizes Dhawan for her leadership in workforce development through innovative programs in digital infrastructure and technology which provide opportunities for students to enter high-demand careers.

“Receiving the Community Champion Award from IDIA and a Congressional Certificate for my work in digital equity is deeply meaningful,” Dhawan shared. “As someone who came from India and now serves rural Arizona, I’ve seen firsthand how access to broadband and digital tools can transform lives. This recognition isn’t just mine it belongs to every student, educator, and community partner who believes in building a more connected and equitable future for all.”

Dhawan’s work has led to the development of industry-aligned training such as AWC’s Fiber Optics Technician program and other stackable certificates in technology, preparing students for high-demand careers while directly contributing to the state’s efforts to build and maintain the physical and human infrastructure needed for digital inclusion. 

"We couldn’t be more proud of Reetika for being honored with the IDIA Community Champion Award,” said AWC President Dr. Daniel Corr. “Her visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to digital equity are transforming lives across rural Arizona. This award is a reflection of her passion and the powerful impact she’s making every day.”

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About the Institution for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA):
The IDIA is transforming Arizona’s digital landscape by advocating for equitable access to broadband, devices, and digital literacy across all communities.

Contact:
Travis Mitchell
Entrepreneurial College Marketing Director
Arizona Western College
travis.mitchell@azwestern.edu
(928) 344-7677

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