Pima Community College stands as one of Southern Arizona's most valuable resources, providing workforce-based education across numerous in-demand industries.
As a two-year institution, PCC not only prepares students for today's employment needs but anticipates and trains for tomorrow's workforce demands.
The college's own tagline β Make Someday Today β captures its mission perfectly.
However, this opportunity remains out of reach for many potential students who lack financial resources. Despite PCC's relatively affordable certificate and degree programs, these costs can present insurmountable barriers for many in the community.
Creating student success
Enter the Pima Community College Foundation, a non-profit organization led by Marcy Euler, its president and CEO. The Foundation transforms educational dreams into reality for thousands of students annually through scholarships, enhanced academic programs, improved campus facilities, and other critical support.
"Education changes lives," Euler firmly believes. This conviction drives the foundation's dedication to supporting PCC's mission of transforming lives through accessible, high-quality education.
Bridging education and business
Euler brings unique qualifications to her leadership role. Her career spans 11 years at the University of Arizona helping new students navigate higher education, followed by time focused on her family. She also served as executive director of the Tucson Festival of Books before joining Pima Foundation.
After stepping in as interim president in April 2018, Euler quickly proved her value and was appointed president & CEO in August of the same year. She understands the symbiotic relationship between PCC and the foundation β each strengthening the other's impact.
Finding strategic partnerships
PCC has established Centers of Excellence focused on developing skills in today's most in-demand sectors: IT and cyber security, applied technology (automotive, aviation, advanced manufacturing), hospitality leadership, health professions, arts, public safety and emergency services.
The Foundation actively seeks partners who can fund not just scholarships but comprehensive improvements in curriculum, facilities and faculty development. Notable partnerships include:
β’ Jim Click Auto Service and Education Training: $500,000 for scholarships and equipment improvements
β’ Arizona Complete Health: $500,000 for health professions program endowment, scholarships, curriculum enhancements, and faculty support
β’ Humberto Lopez Family Foundation: $500,000 supporting PimaSTART (Success Through Advanced Reskilling & Training), across multiple programs, including IT, culinary and hospitality at the Center of Opportunity hosted by the Gospel Rescue Mission.
β’ Thomas R. Brown Family Foundation: $2.5 million for advanced manufacturing equipment and faculty support.
β’ Connie Heillman Family Foundation: 50% matching program on new gifts, thereby amplifying donation impact
Measurable community impact
The Foundation's efforts have yielded impressive results. In the 2023-2024 academic year, the Foundation funded over $530,000 in scholarships and provided more than $2 million in program support. As of 2025, the foundation manages $17 million in investments, creating sustainable support for generations of students.
What makes the foundation's approach particularly effective is its commitment to donor alignment. Contributors can designate their donations toward programs that match their personal passions β whether that's a $5 payroll deduction or a multi-million dollar gift. One donor, passionate about literature, designated $50,000 specifically to support poetry programs.
Ripple effect of educational access
The partnership between Pima Community College and the Pima Foundation elevates educational excellence throughout Southern Arizona, creating a powerful ripple effect:
β’ Individual students secure career paths that provide family stability and economic security
β’ For students looking to continue their education, PCC offers transfer programs to assist those that want to move on to 4-year institutions. These students can complete courses at a significant cost savings at PCC before transfer.
β’ Employers gain access to day-one-ready graduates with practical, relevant skills
β’ The broader community thrives with a skilled workforce and stronger economy
How to make a difference
Whether through financial contributions, partnership opportunities, or advocacy, supporting Pima Foundation means investing in Tucson's future workforce and economic vitality.
To learn more about how you can be part of keeping Tucson thriving through education, visit the Pima Foundation website at www.pimafoundation.orgΒ or contact Marcy Euler's office directly at 520-206-4646.
