By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona College (EAC) officially broke ground today on a 19,300-square-foot facility that will expand its Cosmetology Program and enhance healthcare services through the Copper Mountain Clinic Thatcher. Funded through EAC reserve funds and state support — without bonding or tax increases — the $15 million project is set to open for students in fall 2026.
“This project represents a significant investment in both education and healthcare for our region,” said EAC President Todd Haynie. “By doubling our cosmetology program’s capacity and expanding healthcare services, we are ensuring that students and community members alike have greater opportunities for growth and access to essential resources.”
Designed by SPS+ Architects and built by CORE Construction, the new facility will provide cutting-edge training spaces for students and vital healthcare services for the community.
The 12,000-square-foot Cosmetology Program space on College Avenue in Thatcher, across the street from the EAC Activities Center, will include three classrooms, specialized skincare and nail care rooms, full-service salons, and student support areas. The additional 7,300 square feet will house Copper Mountain Clinic Thatcher, strengthening access to primary care and behavioral health services.
Jeff Larson, the chair of the Graham County Community College District Governing Board, emphasized the years of planning and financial stewardship that made the project possible.
“This facility was made possible through generations of leadership and careful financial stewardship,” Larson said. “For years, EAC has strategically planned and saved for this moment. I want to express our deep gratitude to our District 19 legislators — Senator David Gowan, Representative Gail Griffin, and Representative Lupe Diaz — for their ongoing support in securing state funding that transforms the lives of our students.”
The partnership between EAC and local healthcare providers ensures that students will receive real-world experience while contributing to the well-being of the community.
“At the start, this facility will focus on primary care and behavioral health,” said Roland Knox, CEO of Mount Graham Regional Medical Center. “But what makes this partnership truly special is that it also integrates real-world training for EAC students. Through programs like phlebotomy, imaging, and other medical services, students will gain hands-on experience at our clinic, ensuring that they graduate ready to serve the community.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for us,” Knox continued. “It marks our hospital’s first off-campus clinic. We know this clinic will serve not only Thatcher but also Central, Pima, Fort Thomas, and the entire Gila Valley.”
Mark Davenport, partner in charge at SPS+ Architects, highlighted the facility’s forward-thinking design.
“This is going to be a game changer,” he said. “Students will have the opportunity to get real-world, hands-on experience in a space designed not just for learning but for engagement with the community. My favorite feature is the entrance structure. It’s not just a cool architectural element — it literally opens its arms to welcome the community.”
Seth Beer, vice president at CORE Construction, reinforced the project’s lasting impact.
“We focus on higher education and civic buildings that are meant to serve the public good. This project is more than just concrete, steel, glass, and drywall. It is a platform to educate students for years to come, preparing them for great careers that serve Arizona communities.”
At the conclusion of the event, President Haynie reflected on the significance of the moment.
“I want to leave you with a thought: We are not just breaking ground on a building — we are carrying forward a legacy that began 137 years ago,” he said.
“Since our founding in 1888, this institution has been rooted in a mission to uplift and empower. Those early founders — mothers, fathers, and families — sacrificed greatly to establish what would become Eastern Arizona College, ensuring that future generations could access the transformative power of education.
And that legacy lives on today.
Our community has entrusted EAC to prepare students for vital roles in our local economy. The overwhelming passage of Proposition 402 affirms that our community values the College’s impact on higher education and workforce development — and, most importantly, believes in the future of our students.”
