News
24 hours in La Paz County: AWC leadership listens to local needs
September 25, 2026Yuma, Ariz. (September 25, 2026) – An Arizona Western College leadership team recently met with residents of La Paz County, visiting Salome, Bouse, and Quartzsite to discuss the ways AWC can respond to local needs. The team consisted of AWC President Dr. Reetika Dhawan; Dean of Regional Centers and Adult Education Susanna Zambrano; and District Governing Board members Maria Chavoya and Dr. Kenneth MacFarland.
The team met with community members and leadership representing the local school district, hospitals, law enforcement, and fire departments to develop a picture of key areas the college can support.
“Visiting Salome, Bouse, and Quartzsite gave us an opportunity to listen directly to our communities and identify where AWC can expand access to education,” Dr. Dhawan said. “In Salome, we will explore additional concurrent enrollment opportunities for high school students in areas such as culinary arts, construction, and academic programs, while in Bouse and Quartzsite, we will look at expanding continuing education and other programs that meet the needs of residents of all ages.”
“It was a pleasure visiting communities across La Paz County and hearing directly from residents about their priorities, concerns, and hopes for the future,” Chavoya said. “Their perspectives are invaluable, and they reaffirm the important role Arizona Western College can play in supporting the region. I’m confident we can develop programs and classes that foster personal enrichment, strengthen career pathways, and create meaningful opportunities for learners of all ages.”
In addition to addressing academic goals, leadership enjoyed connecting with residents and celebrating the staff members at the Parker Learning Center and Quartzsite Learning Center for their commitment to the La Paz communities.
“Every visit to La Paz County reminds me what a privilege it is to serve this community,” Zambrano said. “I’ve met incredible people who see a need and step up to make things happen. With our new president’s commitment to La Paz County and dedicated leaders like Randy Hartless and Yaneli Pasillas-Miller, I’m excited about what we are building together. It’s an honor to help bring valuable programs and opportunities closer to home. The best is yet to come.”
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Contact:
Jennifer Freedman
Executive Assistant
Arizona Western College
jennifer.freedman@azwestern.edu
(928) 344-7757