By Kris McBride
THATCHER, Ariz. – Eastern Arizona College (EAC) President Todd Haynie has been honored as the 2024 Pacesetter of the Year by the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) District 6. This prestigious award, presented on Nov. 8 at the NCMPR conference in Tucson, recognizes his visionary leadership, innovative accomplishments, and unwavering support for college marketing and communications.
NCMPR specifically highlighted President Haynie’s transformative impact on EAC, both as a leader and a strategist. Under his tenure, EAC completed a comprehensive rebranding effort that modernized the College’s logo system, fostering a renewed sense of pride and connection among students, faculty, and the community. This project exemplifies Haynie’s ability to align the institution’s identity with its mission while enhancing engagement at every level.
NCMPR also noted President Haynie’s instrumental role in driving the success of two new bachelor’s degree programs. His leadership led to the launch of marketing initiatives for these degrees, resulting in application numbers that exceeded initial goals by nearly double; this accomplishment reflects both his vision and EAC’s growing reputation for innovation.
President Haynie’s broader leadership philosophy, grounded in student success, community engagement, and financial stewardship, was a key factor in NCMPR’s decision to honor him. His unwavering commitment to supporting students from all backgrounds has shaped EAC’s diverse academic offerings, while his efforts to cultivate partnerships with industries and businesses have ensured that these programs remain relevant to workforce demands. NCMPR also commended EAC’s continued financial stability under his guidance, noting that the College remains debt-free while actively investing in its future.
The organization further recognized President Haynie’s contributions to enhancing the student experience through significant campus improvements. These include renovated residence halls, a revitalized activities center, and plans for a new cosmetology building with retail space. As EAC Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Susan Wood noted, “There isn’t a corner of campus that hasn’t been shaped, shined, and polished by President Haynie. He has drastically improved student life and made astounding changes in just a few years.”
President Haynie’s impact extends beyond Eastern Arizona College, as noted in NCMPR’s recognition of his regional and national advocacy. As marketing chair for the Arizona Community College Coordinating Council (AC4), he has led influential statewide campaigns that elevate the profile of community colleges and champion their value at the legislative level. His appointment to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) underscores his dedication to expanding educational opportunities for underserved populations, a mission that aligns with the values celebrated by NCMPR.
Keith Alexander, EAC’s chief government relations officer, said, “President Haynie’s leadership has been pivotal in advancing community colleges at regional and national levels. His work with AC4 and WICHE reflects his deep commitment to expanding access to higher education, benefiting not just EAC but the entire community college network.”
The recipient of the National Pacesetter Award, which honors one outstanding leader from NCMPR’s seven districts, will be announced at the NCMPR national conference in March 2025 in New Orleans, LA.
