Photo By Taylor Ellett/EAC: EAC received a check from OneAZ Credit Union for $5,000 toward its Monster Exchange Program. Pictured are, from left, Dr. Susan Wood, EAC vice president of academic and student affairs; Todd Haynie, EAC president, Enrique Garcia, OneAZ Credit Union branch manager for Safford, Vanessa Gonzalez, OneAZ Credit Union southern regional manager, Representative Gail Griffin, Representative Lupe Diaz, and Jeff Larson, Graham County Community College District Governing Board chair.
By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER – The Eastern Arizona College Foundation (EAC) received a generous $5,000 grant from OneAZ Community Foundation to support the College’s Monster Exchange program, a vital initiative aimed at supporting student success. The grant was presented at EAC’s Thatcher campus, marking a boost for the program that has become a lifeline for students since its inception in 2020.
Vanessa Gonzalez, a representative from OneAZ Credit Union, personally presented the check to EAC President Todd Haynie. Speaking at the event, Gonzalez emphasized the importance of community support in fostering student success. “At OneAZ Credit Union, we believe in giving back to the communities we serve, and the Monster Exchange program is a perfect example of how we can help support student success,” said Gonzalez.
EAC President Todd Haynie expressed his gratitude for the grant and highlighted the increasing demand for the Monster Exchange program. “Last year alone, we had 5,667 visits from 549 students. This grant from OneAZ Community Foundation will help us continue to provide essential support to our students, ensuring they have the resources they need to focus on their education and succeed,” Haynie stated.
The Monster Exchange has grown to become a key resource for EAC students. The program has been made possible through the support of local organizations, grants, and the generous donations of staff, students, and community members.
Representative Gail Griffin, a strong advocate for education and community support, praised the Monster Exchange program at the event. “The Monster Exchange is a wonderful initiative, and it’s incredible to see how EAC is always finding ways to support their students. This donation from OneAZ Community Foundation is a testament to the power of community partnerships,” Griffin said.
Representative Lupe Diaz also spoke at the event, emphasizing the program’s direct impact on students’ lives. “What I love about the Monster Exchange is that it’s getting right to what students need—addressing their basic needs so they can focus on being successful in their studies,” Diaz remarked.
The Monster Exchange is always in need of donations to continue its mission. The program welcomes contributions of food, clothing, toiletries, and school supplies, as well as monetary donations. Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 3673 W. Church Street in Thatcher.
About OneAZ Credit Union
OneAZ Credit Union is a member-owned financial institution serving over 161,000 members and over 10,000 businesses with 20 branch locations across Arizona. As a credit union with over $3.3 billion in assets, OneAZ is owned by its members, who benefit from better rates, lower fees for service, and improved technology. Since 1951, OneAZ has strived to help Arizonans meet their financial needs through a full suite of personal and business banking solutions. OneAZ’s mission is to truly improve the lives of its members, its associates, and the communities it serves. To learn more, visit OneAZcu.com. Insured by NCUA.
About Eastern Arizona College:
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EAC is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
Offering a diverse range of over 90 degrees and certificates and two bachelor’s degrees, EAC is home to the state’s premier nursing school, a fine arts program featuring Arizona’s only community college marching band, and an engineering program that equips students for success at top-tiered firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. At EAC, students can live in on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EAC apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.
Choose EAC as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, visit www.eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.
