By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona College (EAC) President Todd Haynie recently thanked employees for their generous contributions to the EAC Foundation scholarship program during the annual employee Christmas luncheon. Sydney Davis, a current student and scholarship recipient, shared her story at the event, explaining how EAC has allowed her to turn her dreams into reality.
Davis, who has moved 16 times in her 20 years, described how she felt disconnected for much of her life. “No matter how many events I attended, how many friends I made, or how many hours I worked, it always felt like I was walking down a crazy busy street and nobody knew who I was,” Davis said. “At EAC, I’ve found a home where people want to help me succeed.”
Davis, a former high school student council member and athlete, has been pursuing her education with the support of a Foundation scholarship funded by EAC employees. She credits faculty and staff for helping her transition to EAC and navigate her journey toward academic and personal success.
Originally planning to study forensic psychology, Davis shared her decision to pivot to EAC’s Cosmetology Program. Inspired by her experiences growing up and her desire to help others, she plans to use her skills to serve her community. Davis envisions opening a salon that partners with hospitals to provide makeovers for individuals struggling with cancer and other illnesses.
“EAC’s employees amplify student successes to help them move forward to better the world that they will soon become part of,” Davis said. “The small classes, supportive staff, and sense of belonging here have changed my life.”
President Haynie commended Davis for her determination and thanked employees for supporting students like her. “Sydney is a testament to what makes Eastern Arizona College special — helping students overcome barriers to achieve their dreams,” Haynie said. “Nothing should hold anyone back from pursuing their dreams at EAC. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to finding a way to help every student succeed.”
Registration is going on now for the Spring 2025 semester. For more information or to register, visit www.eac.edu. For assistance with scholarships, enrollment, and other resources, please get in touch with EAC’s enrollment management team at 928-428-8272.
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.
EAC offers more than 90 degrees and certificates, including two bachelor’s degrees. It is home to the state’s premier nursing school and a fine arts program featuring Arizona’s only community college marching band. The college also boasts an engineering program that prepares students for success at top-tier firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive and forge connections that last a lifetime. Students experience 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 brilliant higher education destination. For more information, email admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.
