News
AWC names Dr. Shadi Kilani Executive Vice President of Entrepreneurial College
May 7, 2026Dr. Kilani to lead workforce and healthcare innovation
Yuma, Ariz. (May 7, 2026) – Arizona Western College (AWC) is pleased to announce that Shadi Kilani, MD, MS, has been selected to serve as the next Executive Vice President of the Entrepreneurial College. In this role, Dr. Kilani will serve as the institution’s chief external ambassador and lead the development and expansion of high-wage, high-demand workforce and healthcare programs that strengthen partnerships and support regional economic growth.
Dr. Kilani brings more than 20 years of diverse leadership experience across higher education, healthcare, and workforce development to the position. He joins AWC from Tarrant County College, where he served as Division Dean of Health, Business and Industry and Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Kilani succeeds Dr. Reetika Dhawan, who will assume the role of AWC President effective June 1.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Kilani to AWC,” Dr. Dhawan shared. “His track record of creating strong partnerships with faculty, staff, and employers will be instrumental as we continue to expand opportunities for our students and strengthen the region’s workforce.”
Throughout his career, Dr. Kilani has led accreditation efforts, launched new academic and workforce initiatives, and integrated industry-recognized certifications into academic programs to further ensure students are career-ready. With a background in medicine, he brings a unique perspective to advancing healthcare education and addressing critical workforce needs.
“I am honored to join AWC and support its commitment to workforce and healthcare education,” Dr. Kilani said. “I look forward to working alongside colleagues and community partners to expand opportunities for students and prepare them for success.”
Dr. Kilani officially steps into the role on May 18.
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Contact:
Katheline Ocampo
Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
Arizona Western College
katheline.ocampo@azwestern.edu
(928) 317-6050