Cochise Newsroom

Isaiah James, cybersecurity major and vice president of student programming for the Student Government Association (SGA), was selected to be part of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) Voces Nuevas program. James was very excited when he found out he had been selected. “I didn’t really think I was going to get it because it’s a very distinguished program,” he said.  

 

The Voces Nuevas (New Voices) program is highly competitive, accepting only 50 students at a time. During the eight-month program, students from the United States and Puerto Rico participate in training to develop their skills in leadership and advocacy. This training helps the students with career development and prepares them to be future leaders.  

 

Andy Espinoza, director of Student Leadership & Activities and SGA advisor, said, “Isaiah leads with purpose and integrity, always focused on empowering others and creating a sense of belonging. His selection for HACU’s Voces Nuevas program is a testament to his growth, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on his community.” Espinoza also said that working with James has been rewarding, and he has helped strengthen the campus community at the college.  

 

James said one thing he’s looking forward to doing through the program is getting better at public speaking. “Anything [I learn there] is going to help me in the long run,” said James. “It’s not only something for right now—it’s going to help me in the future.” He is also looking forward to developing his interview and leadership skills. According to James, Voces Nuevas will help him to be an advocate for himself and others.  

 

James learned about the program from Espinoza, who encouraged him to apply. After researching HACU and the program, James decided it was something he would like to be a part of. With support from his advisors, family, and friends, he submitted his application for Voces Nuevas and was selected.  

 

“[My parents] were happy and excited when I got in,” he said. “They taught me that even if you don’t get the thing you want, it’s always good because you can learn something from that experience.” His parents were happy to see his hard work paying off. James said they have always encouraged him to apply himself and be the best version of himself that he possibly can.  

 

James has been continuing on the path to success. He first learned about the college’s cybersecurity program at an event that was held for high school students interested in attending. James said, “That event really helped me understand what cybersecurity is and how important it is.” Now, he is planning a career in the cybersecurity field. He has enjoyed being part of the cybersecurity program at Cochise College and seeing it continue to develop. “I feel like you’re helping future students to have a better experience,” he said.  

 

James is set to graduate with his associate degree this spring, He plans to transfer to the University of Arizona to pursue a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity and hopes to use the skills and training he gained through the Voces Nuevas program to be a competent leader when he enters the workforce.  

 

About the author: This article was written by Sofia Snyder, a Liberal Arts student majoring in journalism. She currently serves as a Marketing and Communications intern at Cochise College and is set to graduate in December 2025.

Credits

• Writer

  Sofia Snyder

• DATE

  November 13, 2025

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