News
Arizona Western College, Sunset Health, Onvida Health land 150k grant from Arizona Complete Health
July 29, 2026Partnership will increase clinical training capacity, establish new healthcare pathways, and improve patient care
Yuma, Ariz. (July 29, 2026) – Arizona Western College, Sunset Health, and Onvida Health are celebrating the approval of a $150,000 grant from Arizona Complete Health to support clinical healthcare training and improve access to quality care for local residents.
Distributed evenly among the three entities by the AWC Foundation, the grant will be used to combat persistent workforce shortages by training, retaining, and deploying qualified healthcare professionals. Funding will support clinical preceptor stipends and tuition assistance at Sunset Health, expand and create high-need healthcare training pathways at AWC, and provide rapid upskilling and credentialing opportunities through Onvida Health.
“Meaningful transformation happens when visionary partners invest in people,” said AWC President Dr. Reetika Dhawan. “We sincerely thank Arizona Complete Health for supporting our shared commitment to developing a skilled local workforce, strengthening rural communities, and improving health outcomes across Yuma County. Together, we're creating new pathways for students to pursue meaningful careers while ensuring local families have greater access to quality healthcare.”
“This investment from Arizona Complete Health represents far more than grant funding—it is an investment in the future of healthcare access in rural Arizona,” said Dr. Saika Somjee, Senior Director of Clinical Operations & Education at Sunset Health. “Through this partnership, we are strengthening the local healthcare workforce pipeline by expanding employee clinical training opportunities, sustaining preceptor payments, supporting healthcare workers in advancing their careers, and creating sustainable pathways into high-demand professions.”
"Being rooted in our community means investing in its future,” said Justin Farren, Onvida Health Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer. “By strengthening partnerships and creating new opportunities together, we are supporting the next generation of healthcare leaders.”
The partnership between AWC, Sunset Health, and Onvida Health reflects a shared commitment to strengthening healthcare in Yuma County. The investment will improve access to preventive services, reduce wait times for procedures, accelerate diagnoses, and improve continuity of care throughout the community.
“By investing in our own community members and future healthcare professionals,” Dr. Somjee added, “we are helping ensure that Medicaid members and underserved populations in Yuma County have access to the high-quality, culturally responsive care they deserve for years to come.”
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About Arizona Complete Health:
Arizona Complete Health has a commitment to improving the health of the community one individual at a time through affordable and reliable health care plans. The company serves Arizonans through active local partnerships and the Community Reinvestment Program, which provides philanthropic support for health and wellness initiatives and to community-based organizations that are working to improve the health of our local communities. In 2022 alone, Arizona Complete Health gave back over $2,715,000 in grants and sponsorships to Arizona communities.
About Arizona Western College:
Arizona Western College serves Yuma and La Paz counties by offering more than 170 degree and certificate programs, workforce training, and community education opportunities. Committed to transforming lives and creating thriving communities., AWC prepares students for careers in high-demand industries through strong partnerships with Arizona's public universities and local employers.
About Sunset Health:
Sunset Health is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. With multiple locations throughout Yuma County, Sunset Health offers comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral health, and preventive services to individuals and families across the region.
About Onvida Health:
Onvida Health is a leading not-for-profit hospital system serving Yuma County and southwestern Arizona. The system includes two hospitals, 430 inpatient beds, 45 outpatient clinics and a free-standing Emergency Department. Onvida Health’s team includes 495 providers across 52 specialties, with 4,000 employees and hundreds of volunteers who work together to deliver high-quality, compassionate care. Together we are committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care in a welcoming and inclusive environment. At Onvida Health, our purpose is clear: to build a healthier tomorrow for the communities we proudly serve.
Contact:
Michelle Struck
Executive Administrative Assistant
Arizona Western College
michelle.struck@azwestern.edu
(928) 317-6250