THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona College has been named the first-place recipient of the Community Partner Impact Award in the Eastern Arizona Courier’s 2026 Best of the Gila Valley awards. The Freeport-McMoRan Foundation received second place, and the Graham County Chamber of Commerce received third.
The Eastern Arizona Courier’s annual Best of the Gila Valley program invites community members to nominate and vote for outstanding businesses, organizations, services and individuals throughout Graham and Greenlee counties.
“We are honored to receive the Community Partner Impact Award because it comes from the people and communities we are here to serve,” said EAC President Todd Haynie. “This recognition belongs to our faculty, staff, students and community partners who work every day to make Eastern Arizona a stronger place to live, learn and work.”
For Eastern Arizona College, that commitment extends well beyond the classroom.
EAC contributes an estimated $342.4 million in annual economic impact to the region, with one in 12 local jobs supported by College activities. The College also works closely with area employers to prepare students for high-demand careers and strengthen the workforce that drives the regional economy.
That impact can be seen in the opportunities EAC creates for students of all ages. Scholarships help hundreds of EAC students pursue an education each year, while programs such as EAC’s nationally recognized nursing program prepare graduates to serve critical needs in communities throughout the region.
That impact is evident in the opportunities EAC creates for students of all ages. The College provides scholarship support to hundreds of students, continues to expand early-college opportunities for high school students, and is increasing access to bachelor’s degrees and online education. EAC also provides educational opportunities throughout the region and free tuition for eligible students aged 55 and older.
EAC’s impact also reaches local businesses. Through the Eastern Arizona College Small Business Development Center, entrepreneurs and small-business owners have access to no-cost counseling, training and resources designed to help businesses start, grow and succeed.
The College also serves as a gathering place for the region. Athletic events, concerts, theatrical productions, educational programs and other activities bring thousands of people together each year. EAC’s student-athletes and performing arts programs have also brought regional and national recognition to Eastern Arizona.
“EAC’s relationship with this community goes far beyond providing an education,” said Keith Alexander, EAC’s chief government relations officer. “We work alongside local governments, schools, businesses and community organizations to identify needs and find ways we can help. This award is especially meaningful because it reflects the partnerships that allow us to make a greater difference together.”
The Community Partner Impact Award recognizes a role EAC has embraced throughout its history: working alongside the people and organizations of Eastern Arizona to create opportunities, strengthen communities and improve lives.
About Eastern Arizona College
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EA is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
EA offers a diverse range of more than 90 degrees and certificates, including bachelor’s degrees. The College is home to the state’s premier nursing school and a fine arts program that features Arizona’s only community college marching band. EA also boasts an engineering program that prepares students for success at top-tier firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EA is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. Experience on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
