Every year the Yavapai College Foundation (YCF) brings scholarship donors and student recipients together to advance the ideal and reinforce the fact that scholarships change lives.
This year was no different, as dozens of 2023-2024 YC students enjoyed brunch with the people from across Yavapai County whose financial gift helped them buy books or supplies, pay tuition and lab fees, or even made their entire college journey possible.
Zach McKeown is one such student. Speaking at the YCF’s 11th annual Scholarship Reception, the former wildlife biologist shared how, as a recipient of two lucrative scholarships, he is able to follow a new life calling and attend nursing school at YC. Nursing beckoned Zach after he provided bedside care to his ailing grandmother and after working with refugees in Atlanta.
“Seeing the completely debilitating impact of illness on a person who was once vibrant and full of life is very humbling and puts life into a different perspective,” Zach said, describing his experience with his grandmother. Of working with refugees, he said, “I’ve realized the dire need for healthcare workers isn’t limited to refugee populations.”
“As I was drawn to wildlife and fisheries, so I find myself drawn to the healthcare field. I study because I want to help provide protection and promote healing in an individual’s life,” Zach said.
Also addressing the gathering at Cliff Castle Resort, scholarship recipient and business bachelor’s degree student Shannon Johns called “immeasurable” the scholarship gift from people she didn’t know, but who believed in her. “Your gift allowed me to continue with my education while still being able to stand on my own two feet and support myself,” the 55-year-old said, relating that although she works full time at at YC, college costs created financial hardships.
In her remarks at the reception, YC District Governing Board Chair Deb McCasland applauded the hard-working, deserving scholarship recipients and the donors who “make a profound difference” in students’ lives. “Your generosity only furthers the college’s mission, has a lasting impact on the students and ultimately creates a better quality of life for us all as our graduates enter the workforce.”
YCF Board member, Southwest Wine Center (SWC) Founder and former Friends of the Southwest Wine Center President Joan Meyers shared with the reception audience first-hand knowledge of a number SWC alumni who needed financial assistance while attending the teaching winery adjacent to the Verde Valley Campus in Clarkdale. The former students have all moved on to work in the wine industry. One of them, winemaker Julia Dixon, won one of the top awards at a recent Arizona wine competition.
“The scholarship students I highlighted all had to go through a lot of trials and tribulations to get where they are now,” Joan said. She offered these words of encouragement to current YC scholarship recipients: “Stick with it by being a continuous learner, being involved in different activities and making a difference in other people’s lives as you change the world for the better.”
In her closing remarks at the reception, YCF Executive Director Mary Talosi told the scholarship recipients they “clearly have both courage and commitment to change your course by choosing education.” However, courage and commitment sometimes aren’t enough and that’s where donors come in, to offer financial assistance and unwavering belief.
“Without you, donors, we would not be here celebrating these students and their achievements. So please go forward in your day knowing that you have made a difference in someone’s life with your generosity and caring heart.”
For information about the Yavapai College Foundation and scholarship giving opportunities, visit yc.edu/ycf.
Yavapai College operates six campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, two baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities.
To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu
