For the third consecutive year, Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) demonstrated its unwavering support for veterans by securing first place in the food and hygiene drive portion of the annual MVET (Maricopa Veterans Education and Transition) Challenge held by Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD). Although Phoenix College claimed the overall championship by winning the membership drive, PVCC’s dedication and compassion for its veteran community is undeniable.
“The MVET Challenge is an opportunity for PVCC to demonstrate its core values of compassion and service,” said PVCC President Dr. Jana Schwartz. “By supporting veterans’ basic needs, we’re not only giving back to those who have given so much to our country, but we’re also fostering a culture of empathy, dignity, and community care.”
The MVET Challenge is a friendly yet impactful competition among Maricopa Community Colleges designed to rally support for veterans—one of the most at-risk populations in our community. Through food and hygiene drives, as well as membership growth for veteran support programs, the challenge highlights Maricopa’s commitment to ensuring veterans’ well-being and educational success.
As the reigning champion from last year, PVCC’s community was determined to maintain its excellence. “We may not have won this year, but we are determined to win the Jolly Roger back next year,” said Lance Miller, who spearheaded efforts at PVCC. “Due to PVCC’s drive, the other campuses were challenged to up their game. In the end, we were able to collect five pallets of food and hygiene products to help out military families, which is the main goal of our challenge. As long as the spirit of the MVET Challenge continues, we will continue to do our part to help.”
Christina Calderon, student services manager for Veterans Affairs, added, “The MVET Challenge is more than a competition—it’s a testament to our college’s values. Every item collected is a message to our veterans that we see them, we care for them, and we’re here to support them, especially during the holiday season.”
This year, the MCCCD’s MVET Challenge, founded in 2016 with a vision to help all who have served, supported the Military Support Foundation. Understanding that freedom is everything but free is why the foundation began this mission, sharing that more than 10,000 care packages have been sent overseas to servicemen and women filled with all of their favorite goodies, as well as things that they are in desperate need of.
In addition to sending care packages, PVCC’s Veteran Services hosts family days for the servicemen, veterans, and their families to enjoy some good food, and games. “Vets are struggling, and it is extremely helpful to offer support through food and hygiene items, especially right during the holidays when the weather is super cold,” added PVCC student Gabrielle Begay.
"MVET is an important part of the many wonderful opportunities and relief sources that help keep our student veterans and the community thriving," said Rob Stimson, PVCC student who also works in the college’s Veterans Services department. Reflecting on the essence of the competition, student Sixto Rodriguez also stated, “The Marine Corps taught me the power of friendly competition—it builds cohesion, brings out the best in us, and drives the mission forward. The MVET challenge is a perfect example: it reminds veterans they are not forgotten, and it’s their turn to be served.”
For more information on how to give back, visit the Veterans Services office in building K-108 or call 602-787-7045. To learn more about Veterans Services at PVCC, visit the website.