Student & Alumni Spotlights

Arizona Wildcat Sam Thomas graduated in three years with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in special disabilities with a focus on deaf studies. But there’s good news for the college and for Wildcat fans: Thomas is coming back to play basketball and she’s enrolled in our educational leadership master's program! The basketball star was featured in this article in the Arizona Daily Star.

While many rural schools in Arizona are struggling with declining enrollment, Vernon Elementary has doubled its student body in the last four years. At the same time, the school has greatly improved academics, transitioning from a failing school to a B-rated school. The Title I school is making great strides, despite local poverty levels. Our very own alumna Monica Barajas ’99 ’16 is at the helm as superintendent. Barajas also was appointed to the WestEd Board of Directors, leaders from public and private education, business, and human services communities. The board takes an active role in agency leadership and strategic planning.