Richard Mattice has served on the Eastern Arizona governing board for 50 years. He began his service in 1974 and completed it today in his final board meeting. Family and friends gathered at EAC’s governing board meeting on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 to honor Mattice for his lengthy service to EAC and the community.
During the board meeting a new display was unveiled on the back wall of the board room, showing everyone who has served on the governing board of Eastern Arizona College in it’s 136 year history.
At the conclusion of the regular board meeting, EAC president, Todd Haynie honored Mattice for his leadership and service to the college. Here are President Haynie’s remarks:
“I would like to take an opportunity to comment on a remarkable individual whose service has shaped the very heart of our community and whose vision and leadership on this board has ensured the growth and prosperity of Eastern Arizona College for over five decades — Mr. Richard W. Mattice (Ric).
Serving 50 years on a governing board is an extraordinary achievement — one that is rare, even in the most dedicated public service careers. In fact, when Ric first joined the Graham County Community College District Governing Board in 1974, I was just four years old. Richard Nixon had resigned the U.S. Presidency and Gerald Ford had just taken the oath of office. This speaks to the incredible length and depth of Ric’s commitment to this institution and the community. When you do the math, Ric has been part of EAC’s story for more than one-third of the college’s 136-year history. His contributions have helped guide EAC through periods of profound change and growth, playing a key role in shaping the Eastern Arizona College we know today.
When Ric joined the board, EAC was facing severe financial struggles. The college had less than 10 days of working capital, a campus in dire need of renovation, and a community rightly concerned for its future. During this difficult time, Ric and the other members of the board made the decision: EAC needed a lifeline. They set out to secure the funding and leadership that would ensure the college’s survival and long-term success. Securing state funding remains one of his most lasting legacies.
But Ric’s contributions go far beyond financial strategies. His leadership helped guide EAC through transformative moments, including a critical decision to appoint a new president, Gherald L. Hoopes Jr., in 1984. That decision, while controversial at the time, proved to be pivotal in EAC’s financial recovery and long-term success. (He has a history of appointing controversial presidents: President Hoopes, President Bryce, and even…President Haynie.)
Ric’s leadership transformed EAC into the first debt-free community college in Arizona — a rare and significant achievement. Under his stewardship, the College grew from a struggling institution into the thriving, modern community college we are blessed with today. His vision has shaped not only the financial health of the college but also the campus itself — from key investments in student services, academic programs, and residence halls, to enhancing the beauty of our grounds. Ric always understood that the college’s strength lies in a vibrant campus culture, one that supports student success, fosters community engagement, and prepares students for a bright future.
Now, 50 years later, with our expenditure limitation reset with a margin of 80% passing our Proposition 402, Eastern Arizona College is once again in a good position for at least another generation. Ric can say he accomplished the rebirth of this institution more than once. What a legacy!
Ric’s service has been defined by integrity, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to this community. His leadership has not only transformed Eastern Arizona College but has empowered our entire region — economically, educationally, and socially.
Ric, your legacy is one of dedication, perseverance, and love for this College. You have left an indelible mark on this institution, and for that, we are deeply grateful. As we look to the future of Eastern Arizona College, we know that your work, your vision, and your commitment will continue to inspire us all.
As EAC’s 21st president, I will always be grateful for his friendship and support. It is the support of board members like Ric Mattice that make the College the best college in the country and the job of its president fulfilling.
Thank you for your incredible service, Ric, and congratulations on this well-deserved retirement from the EAC Governing Board.”
Following President Haynie’s remarks, he presented Mattice with a plaque commemorating his service on the board. He also presented a crystal Gila Monster for exceptional service.
At the conclusion of the meeting a video was shown featuring tributes and well-wishes from family and colleagues as Richard Mattice ends his 50 year legacy of service to Eastern Arizona College:
