THATCHER, Ariz.— Building on its commitment to establish meaningful partnerships within the community and provide more Hispanic students access to a higher education, Eastern Arizona College has become the newest member of the Southeast Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, a regional affiliate of the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
“We are thrilled to join the Southeast Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and contribute to a shared mission of helping this region thrive,” stated Todd Haynie, EAC president. “This association will further increase diversity and inclusiveness on our campus and enhance the pathway to higher education for even more students.”
The Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1989. It is a member of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, which is America’s largest business organization, representing over 4.7 million Hispanic-owned businesses. It also enjoys a strategic partnership with the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the largest chamber of commerce in Arizona.
“Census data predicts that Arizona will become a multicultural majority by 2030, with Hispanics comprising most of this growth,” said Daniel C. Valle, regional/international director of the Southeast Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “These predictions have strong policy implications, and we applaud EAC’s approach to providing educational needs for increasing numbers of minority students.”
EAC was invited to join the Southeast Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce by Ed Lopez, a Southeast Arizona Hispanic Chamber Ambassador and business development representative, local resident of Safford, and former EAC student. “The partnership between EAC and the Southeast Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is the perfect fit,” said Lopez. “Both organizations are focused on strengthening our economy and providing opportunities for all residents.”
EAC’s membership opens up direct lines of communication with the Southeast Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s network, uniquely positioning the College to showcase its unique programs and signature offerings.
“This new alliance enhances and solidifies our longstanding partnership with the Graham County Chamber of Commerce,” said Haynie. “Together, we are driving partnerships in workforce development and enhancing the entry point into higher education for future generations.”
