MESA, Arizona -- Dec. 4, 2024 -- AT&T supports the launch of Mesa Community College's (MCC) EmpowerEd for Student Success campaign with a gift of $70,000. The campaign is part of a three-year, $20 million fundraising effort by the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation (MCCF) and Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) aimed at increasing financial support and removing barriers to help students attain a college degree and strengthen the state's workforce.

"The EmpowerED campaign is our commitment to removing obstacles and creating pathways for all students to succeed. This initiative is about more than just funding, its about transforming lives, strengthening our community, and empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators," said MCC President, Dr. Richard Daniel.

As part of the broader campaign, MCC aims to raise $1 million for the Mesa College Promise and $500,000 for the Thunderbird Excellence Fund over the next three years. AT&T's investment will help provide essential technology resources for Mesa College Promise students. Specifically, AT&T's gift provides for iPad bundles and device instruction for 30 first-generation, low- and moderate-income students. These resources will assist students with coursework and ensure they have the digital tools needed for academic success.

"Digital literacy and access to technology are essential for success in today's educational landscape," said Tara Thue, President, AT&T Mountain & Desert States. "Through our philanthropic work and community engagement programs, we hope to help bridge the digital divide and ensure students have the resources they need to succeed. We're proud to support MCC's College Promise students, who will become tomorrows leaders."

The Mesa College Promise, a key partnership between MCC and the City of Mesa, covers tuition for recent high school graduates and adult learners over the age of 25 years residing in Mesa, allowing them to focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress.

The Thunderbird Excellence Fund provides critical assistance to students facing unexpected challenges, such as medical emergencies, housing instability, or financial hardship, ensuring they can continue their education without interruption. The fund also supports key projects that align with the college's strategic mission.

When we all come together in support of one common goal, our power and strength is that much greater, said MCCCD Chancellor Dr. Steven R. Gonzales. For many of our students, funding goes beyond just financial support, it's a lifeline. This campaign brings each of our colleges and the Foundation together, supporting one strategy that we will achieve as a community.

For more information about the EmpowerEd for Student Success campaign or to make a charitable, tax-deductible donation, visit mcccdf.org/empowered-mcc.

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Media Contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu, 480-461-7892

The Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation, with its donors and partners, supports the Maricopa County Community College District, its students, faculty, and staff, through scholarships, programs, equipment, and financial and human capital. Visit www.mcccdf.org to learn more.

Mesa Community College (MCC) is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, and innovative education. Serving over 25,500 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 8,500 hours of community service annually. For nearly 60 years, MCC has been a key resource for education, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services and is dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees, and it boasts the largest indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges. The MCC American Indian Institute supports students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. MCC's diverse student body includes hundreds of international students. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education and training. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, on the traditional lands of the O'odham, Piipaash, and Yavapai Peoples, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu.

MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.