Demonstrating a sustained commitment to preparing future educators and strengthening the education community, these individuals have set a high standard for quality education and helping students meet their goals through teaching, service and leadership. Educators who have been recognized for their high ideals and dedication to students include faculty members: Cesar Becerra, Ed.D., who completed a National College Hispanic Council Leadership Fellows program and Tawn Hauptli, Ed.D., who was honored with the 2025-2026 National Association of Community College Teacher Education Programs Full-Time Faculty Award.
Moreover, Michael Voss, Dean of Instruction — Allied Health, Applied Sciences & Technology, Business and Computer Information Systems — was named the 2026 Postsecondary Professional of the Year by the Arizona Association for Career and Technical Education.
Because of their dedication, commitment to academic excellence and drive, MCC is proud of and grateful to these individuals who enable the college to provide students with unprecedented opportunities that have the power to change lives.
Prestigious journal spotlights MCC faculty discovery in early Peruvian society
MCC archaeology faculty member Kirk Costion, Ph.D., co-authored a study on ancient Indigenous cultures of southern Peru in Latin American Antiquity, one of the most prestigious journals in the field.
Francis Tesmer named MCC's 2025 Hero of Education
ROLFS Global Institute Founder and CEO Francis Tesmer was honored as MCC’s 2025 Hero of Education for her outstanding leadership, philanthropy and commitment to expanding educational opportunities for beauty and wellness professionals nationally and internationally. Tesmer collaborated with MCC and Arizona State University to launch a first-of-its-kind higher education pathway for beauty professionals.
Community organizations inducted into Mesa Community College Hall of Fame
For the first time in the college’s history, MCC welcomed into its Hall of Fame the organizations that have shaped its legacy. Community partner honorees included Mesa Public Schools, City of Mesa, Mesa Chamber of Commerce, Tempe Chamber of Commerce, East Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, PHX East Valley Partnership, New Frontiers for Lifelong Learning and Mesa-East Valley Rose Society.
