Did you know February 14 isn’t just Valentine’s Day, it’s Arizona’s birthday! And honestly? We can’t think of a better day to celebrate a place we love so deeply.
Arizona turns 114 and to many of us, it’s home. Arizona gives us sunsets that stop you make you believe you’ve never seen anything more beautiful. A desert and mountain landscape full of wildlife and outdoor recreation. And at the heart of it all in Southern Arizona is Pima Community College. A college that is meeting people where they are, opening doors, and helping our community grow stronger every single day.
If you haven’t already gathered, Pima Community College is part of Arizona’s story. From workforce development to lifelong learning, from first-generation students to career changers, PCC reflects the very best of this state: opportunity, access, and belief in people.
When I asked our Foundation team what Arizona to them, the answers said it all.
Cassondra shared her love for Tucson’s welcoming, laid-back feel and stunning desert surroundings, especially those unforgettable sunsets. She sees PCC as a reflection of that same spirit, meeting individuals where they are and helping them succeed while continuing to make Tucson an incredible place to call home.
For Jen, Arizona is deeply rooted in family, warmth, and community. Growing up here, surrounded by loved ones, made this place feel familiar and grounding. She’s grateful to PCC and Pima Foundation for allowing her to do work she loves, in a place she loves.
Marcy spoke to Arizona’s rich history, breathtaking scenery, and wonderful people, but especially Tucson, where personal relationships still matter. That sense of connection is at the heart of the work she’s proud to do alongside Pima Community College, transforming lives every day.
Diana echoed that sentiment, sharing her appreciation for Southern Arizona’s beauty and strong sense of care for one another. It’s the same spirit that drives her work of connecting generous donors with opportunities that truly change students’ lives.
Zulma highlighted Arizona’s incredible diversity, culture, and food, calling Tucson a “small, big city” with a friendly and welcoming heart. She values how PCC has become such an essential part of the region, providing education and training that touches lives across Southern Arizona.
Krissy admitted she didn’t plan on staying in Tucson, but it grew on her in all the right ways. It became a place to raise her kids, surrounded by people who look out for one another. She sees that same warmth and resilience reflected in PCC and is grateful to be part of a place that feels like home.
Emily shared her love for Tucson’s food, art, and murals, because creativity exists everywhere you look. What keeps her here is the community, full of pride, kindness, and incomparable spirit that define this city.
Saby spoke beautifully about Tucson expanding her worldview. Coming from the small island of Puerto Rico, she found gratitude in the diversity, acceptance, and friendships she’s built here. She fell in love with the scenic views, starry desert nights, and PCC’s commitment to enriching lives and strengthening the region.
Katie loves Arizona for the way the desert comes alive. From monsoons to red rocks to colorful sunsets. She’s grateful to live in a place where people are committed to supporting one another and thankful for PCC’s dedication to creating opportunity for all.
And for me? Arizona is simply home. A home filled with beautiful landscapes, incredible food, an amazing art community and that small-town feeling right here in Tucson. I’m thankful every day to live in a place surrounded by community and love and to share stories about a College that makes all of this possible.
On Arizona’s birthday, we’re celebrating more than it’s statehood. We’re celebrating the people, the stories, and the shared belief that education changes lives.
Happy Birthday, Arizona. We love you and we’re proud to be part of your story.
