Congratulations Pumas – we did it! Paradise Valley Community College is the champion of the 2023 Maricopa County Community College District’s United Way Competition. In partnership with Valley of the Sun United Way, MCCCD’s annual friendly competition raises money directly impacting various college initiatives. Pumas claimed victory, bringing home the Chancellor’s Cup after increasing its donor base this year by a whopping 91 percent under the direction of Senior Development Officer Mario Marquez in PVCC’s Office of Strategic Partnerships.
“I am super proud of our college and everyone who helped make this happen,” said Marquez. “This has been a very special United Way campaign, working together to accomplish our goals and become the leading college in the district. We were able to show that with unity, hard work, and dedication, we can go a long way to support our students and areas of need in our community.”
The Chancellor’s Cup is awarded to the college with the largest percentage increase in employees participating from the preceding year. PVCC raised more than $6,000 that will go directly to PVCC’s ACE Program and Fund for Excellence. Various PVCC departments created themed baskets for auction, in addition to a Starbucks’ donated basket, and several paintings. Additionally, PVCC Interim President Jana Schwartz hosted a baking event in which employees could bake with Schwartz, raising $400.
“We had so much fun baking together. What a great way to spend an afternoon,” said Schwartz. “PVCC faculty and staff are so generous with their time, talents, and resources, especially when giving back to our amazing students. I am so appreciative of those who joined me."
Overall, the Maricopa community raised $133,041 ($13,000 more than last year) for the Valley of the Sun, Mesa United Way, and the many community partners they serve. As in years past, donations could be specifically earmarked for the Maricopa ACE programs, Spot 127, and Arizona Sun Sounds, and new this year, donations could be designated to MCCCD food pantries and greatest needs funds. More than $45,000 of the funds raised will come directly to Maricopa.
For additional information on donating to PVCC or MCCCD, visit https://www.paradisevalley.edu/osp/give