Yavapai College Director of Community Outreach Lisa Raygoza moved from Gila Bend to Prescott, Arizona after graduating high school to take classes at Yavapai College in 1996. She secured an Associate of Applied Science in paralegal studies, going on to become a Certified Court Interpreter.
While working in multiple positions for the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office and the Yavapai County Attorney’s Office, Raygoza earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication.
Reflecting on her time as a student at Yavapai College, Raygoza said “My experience was much like the students I aspire to help navigate the system: challenging. I didn’t know Pell Grants were available, I didn’t know that I had to take a placement test to be placed in the right courses. I stayed late to ask questions, and I used the library as much as I could to get ahead. Nonetheless, I adapted and was determined to be the first in my family to earn a college degree.”
In 2018, Raygoza shifted her career path from the legal world to higher education to work as executive assistant to Yavapai College Vice President of Community Relations and Student Development Rodney Jenkins. She served in that role for just over a year and was promoted to Hispanic Initiatives and Community Outreach.
“In my role, I focus on building strong relationships between the college and the broader community,” Raygoza said. “I work to create partnerships, coordinate outreach efforts, and represent Yavapai College in a variety of community spaces. Whether I’m collaborating with local organizations, supporting events, or connecting individuals to college resources, my goal is to strengthen Yavapai College’s visibility, level of trust, and impact. This work helps the college reach more students, support community needs, and ensure that we remain a vital, accessible, and valued resource.”
Raygoza said that the work she does is important because it helps bridge the college with the community it serves. By fostering partnerships, supporting outreach initiatives, and creating impactful engagement opportunities, she can help expand access, awareness, and support for Yavapai College programs. This contributes to enrollment, strengthens community trust, and ensures that the college is meeting real local needs.
“Ultimately, my role supports the college’s mission by helping students and families feel welcomed, informed, and connected to educational pathways that can change their lives,” Raygoza said.
In terms of possible career paths for others to consider taking, Raygoza said that experience in community outreach opens doors to a wide range of roles, including positions in higher education, nonprofit leadership, and government relations.
“This kind of work is deeply nourishing because it allows people to see the direct impact of their efforts,” Raygoza said. “For me, this work is personally fulfilling because it aligns with my values of service and advocacy. It gives me a sense of purpose.”
Raygoza said that her biggest success has been building valuable relationships across Yavapai County that have resulted in successful events, programs, and community partnerships. She said that seeing individuals and families benefit from these efforts has been incredibly rewarding and reminds her why this work matters.
“I am truly grateful to be part of Yavapai College and the communities we serve,” Raygoza said. “Every partnership and initiative reminds me of the importance of connection and the impact we can make when we work together.”
Raygoza says that the challenge of her role has been balancing the diverse needs of Yavapai County’s communities while navigating limited time and resources. She recognizes that each partnership and initiative is important, and it can be challenging to prioritize when so many groups depend on Yavapai College’s support and collaboration.
“Lisa Raygoza has been nothing short of amazing in her efforts to recruit through ministries, businesses, and community partnerships,” said Yavapai College Economic Development Executive Director Richard Hernandez. “She has introduced new strategies and programs to recruit students for the institution and to represent the college’s programs that afford opportunities for all of Yavapai County’s residents. Her community outreach programs are being emulated County wide. She is well respected in her efforts by the college and community.
“Working for Yavapai College has been one of the most fulfilling and meaningful experiences of my career,” Raygoza said. “Every day feels purposeful, and I’m grateful to work alongside colleagues who are supportive, collaborative, and dedicated to making a positive impact.”
Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, four baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about Yavapai College, visit www.yc.edu.
