THATCHER – Eastern Arizona College and its foundation are making waves to close out 2020 with a pair of big-name hires.
The first was naming Charmaine Chidester the new director of grants for the college.
In a social media post, Chidester said, “I am excited, nervous, curious, and honored at this new opportunity given to me. I have a lot to learn but am looking forward to the opportunity for growth and serving the college in this new capacity.”
Prior to this new position, Chidester served as the business analyst for the Small Business Development Center at the college, and spearheaded a number of high-profile projects throughout Graham and Greenlee counties, including the DreamBuilder program and the annual Women in Business awards.
The other hire was Ryan Rapier, who will assume the duties of community outreach director for EAC Foundation.
“Eastern Arizona College has held a special place in my heart since I first enrolled 30 years ago. I consider the opportunity to represent my alma mater a true gift,” Rapier told Gila Valley Central.
Rapier has been the director of public relations and marketing for Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center for the last 14 years, prominently putting on the annual Health Fair at the college each year. He’s also a member of the Thatcher Town Council.
