MOHAVE COUNTY – Mohave Community College hosted a meeting today in which Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs had a valuable conversation with ten MCC students. The event, held on the Lake Havasu City campus, provided a platform for students to express their concerns and struggles directly to Governor Hobbs.
Students focused on pressing topics such as affordable housing, food insecurity and other challenges that impact academic success and overall well-being. Governor Hobbs listened to each student, emphasizing the importance of hearing their stories, which align with issues affecting many students across the state.
Adam Romano, the college’s most recent Hodel Most Outstanding Student Award winner shared the difficulties he’s seen with fellow students facing rising housing and food costs, which become barriers for students trying to succeed in college and, in general, life.
“As a college student, it’s reassuring to have the Governor on campus to listen to the struggles the students are facing,” said Romano. “Here at the College, employees and students created a free food pantry to help those who are struggling, and the Governor seemed very touched by it. Hopefully, what she heard from us will help shape future statewide policies in a positive way for all students in Arizona.”
The students demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the lives of their peers and future generations of community college students.
“This is such a great opportunity for these wonderful students to meet the Governor and let her know about some of the issues students face as they work so hard to achieve the American dream,” said Dr. Maria Ayon, Havasu Campus Dean of Student and Community Engagement. “It’s heartening to see the Governor take the time to listen and understand the challenges our students navigate daily.”
Three students from the College Dental Program also raised concerns about House Bill 2639, which is currently moving through the legislature and, if passed, would remove the Dental Assisting National Board Exam (DANB) as a state requirement for dental assistants.
“I know we need more dental assistants in Arizona, but removing the DANB requirement would lower the standards and could impact patient safety and I don’t think that’s a good way to try fill those dental positions,” said Lisa Armendariz, a dental hygiene student at the college.
MCC President Dr. Stacy Klippenstein was the meeting facilitator, keeping the focus on the students and their concerns. He said the Governor is a strong proponent of community colleges and thanked her for listening to the students.
“We look forward to fostering more opportunities for our students to participate in these crucial discussions and to advocate for a brighter future for all. These discussions help community colleges and state government continue to work together to make the right choices for students and our communities,” he said.
For more information about Mohave Community College, which is currently enrolling new and returning students in the upcoming summer and fall semesters, please visit www.mohave.edu
