Ribbon-cutting ceremony held for CAC’s Maricopa campus

More than two years after a groundbreaking ceremony for Central Arizona College’s Maricopa campus, community members gathered Tuesday to officially honor the opening of the 76,000-square-foot higher education facility near Bowlin and Porter roads.

CAC’s Maricopa campus has been offering courses since January, but college spokesman Tom Di Camillo said the school became fully operational this semester. That was one reason the college held off on a ribbon-cutting ceremony until now.

Several public officials attended Tuesday’s event, including CAC President Doris Helmich, Maricopa Mayor Christian Price, Ak-Chin Indian Community Chairman Louis Manuel, Jr. and Pinal County District Attorney Lando Voyles.

The event was held outside between two of the campus’ three buildings. Prior to a ribbon cutting, officials representing parties involved in developing the campus spoke before a crowd of attendees.

“Today this campus is fast becoming a focal point of the community thanks to the hospitality and welcoming of the residences and officials of the city of Maricopa, the western Pinal County region and the Ak-Chin Indian Community,” Helmich said. “Without the support of these communities, this campus would be just a dream.”

Manuel and Price, who also spoke, echoed Helmich’s message of partnership and working together.

Price said the effort of these partnerships brings change to the area.

“Change is not about forgetting who we are,” he said. “It’s simply about understanding where we’re going and how we’re going to do so together. And in doing so together, it’s how are we going to better where we live.”

The Maricopa campus features classrooms, community meeting spaces, a library and a culinary arts kitchen.

The campus offers both online and in-person classes. Students can earn several certificates and associate degrees in areas such as accounting, business, culinary arts and early childhood education.

The campus is located at 17945 N. Regent Drive.