Cochise Newsroom

By James D. Perey, EdD 

 

On August 11, I felt the familiar sense of excitement that comes with the start of a new academic year. That day, our faculty and staff gathered for Convocation—our annual opportunity to reconnect, set the tone for the year ahead, and reflect on the work that unites us. This year, our focus was on revisiting our vision: to lead as a responsive college that transforms and empowers our communities through collaboration and innovation.

 

Our story is written every day by the remarkable faculty and staff who remain student-centered, community-anchored, and future-ready. At Convocation, we proudly recognized this commitment by honoring Margarita Fate and Chris McVean as faculty emeriti. We also celebrated Abe Villarreal and Melissa Faglie, recipients of the prestigious National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) award for excellence in higher education. Four staff members were recognized for their tremendous contributions: Marie “Angie” Castillo, Carmen Morales, and Katie Sorensen for Outstanding Service to the college, employees, students, and community, and Jodi Brock-Olivares for Outstanding Service to Students. Also, Jennifer Ratkovich was named Cochise Cares Employee Volunteer of the Year. And, with gratitude, we marked years of dedicated service 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and even 30 years by colleagues who have shaped the heart of Cochise College.

 

Across the college, we continue to see exciting progress:

 

Douglas Campus: Classroom capacity expanded with three new general classrooms to serve more than 1,000 students pursuing academic and workforce goals. Hensel Phelps joined us on campus as they begin work nearby on the new Port of Entry project. And soon, the library will feature new study pods for students.

 

Sierra Vista Campus: A new coffee bar now provides both a gathering space and a study area. Our student housing, Bugen Hall, is at full capacity with a waiting list, proof of the demand for our student housing.

 

Downtown Center: We celebrated the rollout of our new Tahoe simulators to better train our first responders, enhancing their readiness for careers in law enforcement.

 

Benson Center: A landscaping refresh has created a more vibrant and welcoming environment. Both the Benson and Willcox centers have expanded offerings with evening classes and continue to serve as community hubs for local organizations.

 

Fort Huachuca Center: Our commitment to Soldiers and their families remains strong. The bachelor’s degree in Leadership, Management, and Operations, designed for first responders, military leaders, transitioning service members, and working professionals, has already drawn nearly 80 students expressing interest and pursuing enrollment.

 

Each of these advancements reflects Cochise College’s ongoing commitment to coming together in service of our students and communities. Guided by our Mission and Vision, we remain student-centered, community-anchored, and future-focused as we provide innovative educational pathways that prepare learners for today and tomorrow.

 

James D. Perey, EdD, is the president of Cochise College.

Credits

• Writer

  James D. Perey, EdD 

• DATE

  August 21, 2025

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