Thank you to the members of the Commission on Excellence in Education for assisting Mesa Community College with important issues this year:
- Bond election - Commission members' involvement was critical to passing the 2004 bond issue. They identified potential uses for bond money and displayed a deep understanding of how the bond would impact not only the District as a whole but also MCC.
- Accreditation - Commission members became aware of the accreditation process and recognized the importance of accreditation to the college and its students. Members participated in several informative sessions leading to this spring's visit by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. Through these sessions, they developed a better understanding of important issues that the college will be facing in the future.
- Evolution of a Downtown Mesa campus - Commission members discussed program areas, facility usage, and the ways in which MCC's expansion could impact workforce development in the East Valley.
Membership in the Commission continues to grow, which is indicative of the community's awareness of MCC's importance. The college partners with the East Valley Institute of Technology, the City of Mesa, the Mesa-East Valley Rose Society, local businesses, community members, and others. Many of these partnerships have evolved, in part, through the relationships developed within the Commission on Excellence in Education.
I have enjoyed serving as chair of the Commission for the past four years. Through my involvement I have learned more about Mesa Community College, and I have developed relationships and friendships that might not have happened otherwise. I look forward to continuing an association with the Commission and maintaining relationships with people who demonstrate an interest in improving educational opportunities in the East Valley.
I wish to express my appreciation not only to Dr. Christiansen but also to his staff members, who consistently offer timely information and assistance.
Debra Duvall
2001-2005 Chair, Commission on Excellence in Education
Superintendent, Mesa Public Schools
