By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College President Todd Haynie has received the national Pacesetter Award for his leadership, student-centered vision, and strong advocacy for the role of community colleges.
The award was presented at the annual conference of the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR), which brought together several hundred communications and marketing professionals from two-year colleges across the country. In his acceptance speech, Haynie praised their work in demonstrating the power and potential of community colleges and the lives they transform.
“Since he was appointed president of Eastern Arizona College, President Haynie has elevated the image and impact of community colleges — not just within the Gila Valley, but across the state,” said Jeff Larson, chair of the EAC District Governing Board. “Through a deep commitment to students and community, he has positioned EAC as a respected leader in higher education and workforce development.”
From marketing director to college president, Haynie’s leadership journey has given him a unique understanding of how communication can drive engagement, build trust, and expand access. Guided by pillars of student success, community engagement, and financial responsibility, his tenure has delivered transformative results.
Under Haynie’s leadership, EAC has modernized student housing — raising occupancy from 60% to 100% — and launched high-demand workforce programs such as Diesel Technology and Radiologic Technology, both now operating at full capacity. He also championed a critical expenditure limit resolution, which passed with 80% voter approval, removing barriers for the College to continue its growth.
Haynie is currently leading the development of a 19,300-square-foot facility that will house EAC’s Cosmetology Program and provide expanded healthcare access through a partnership with Copper Mountain Clinic Thatcher. This project will double the Cosmetology Program’s capacity and ensure that students and community members have more significant opportunities for growth and access to essential resources.
“President Haynie is a respected and inspiring voice for colleges throughout Arizona,” said Mandy Heil, dean of marketing and communications at Arizona Western College and the District 6 director for NCMPR. “As a former marketing professional, he understands how to reach target audiences and expand access to higher education in rural communities. He genuinely cares about the students community colleges are here to serve.”
In addition to his work at EAC, Haynie serves as chair of the Arizona Community College Coordinating Council and as a commissioner for the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education, where he continues to advocate for accessible, affordable education at the state and national levels.
The Pacesetter Award places Haynie among an elite group of community college leaders nationwide and celebrates his enduring contributions to the visibility, relevance, and resilience of two-year institutions.
