EDUCATION
The evening included raffles, auctions, entertainment from comedian Marty Simpson and testimonials from student speakers like Rivera. By the end of the event, organizers reported raising just over $77,000 to support scholarships and student programs at CAC. Foundation Director Craig Kurtz said the fundraiser helps expand educational access throughout the region. “We’re at the forefront of education in Pinal County,” Kurtz said. For Kurtz, that mission includes helping students graduate from CAC with zero debt. “The less stress we see, the better the grades and the better overall well-being for students,” he said. Established in 1968, the foundation oversees an endowment approaching $10 million and supports more than 130 scholarships. One of its largest initiatives, the Pinal Promise program allows qualifying Pinal County high school graduates to attend CAC tuition-free if they meet academic and community service requirements.
Left to right: Sophie Dessart, Rina Rien and Evelyn Casuga pose in a photo booth. Below: Attendees mingle during Central Arizona College Foundation’s A Night of Stars event Feb. 27.
KAYDENCE SHIPMAN InMaricopa Intern
GETTING TO know
A Night of Stars CAC Foundation raises $77,000 for student scholarships
“We’re at the forefront of education in Pinal County.” CRAIG KURTZ, CAC FOUNDATION DIRECTOR
Food: Steak and ribs Drink: Shirley Temple Meal: Chipotle bowl Restaurant: Texas Roadhouse Getaway: Wilmington, N.C. Quote: “The windshield is bigger than the review mirror because what’s in front of you is way more important than what’s behind you.” – Jelly Roll Words to live by: A negative mind will never give you a positive life. Joke: Why can’t you play video games in the jungle? Because there’s always a cheetah.
Like most about Maricopa: Friends I’ve made Like least about Maricopa: Not much to do FAVORITE … Charity: PETA Book: “Ugly Love” by Colleen Hoover Movie: How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days Actor: Amanda Seyfried Song: “Bless Your Heart” by Megan Maroney Musician: Zach Bryan, Megan Maroney, Don Toliver, Treaty Oak Revival Team: Green Bay Packers Athlete: Laney Choboy
BY MONICA D. SPENCER
More than 500 students currently participate in the program, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college. Rivera said the support has helped keep her focused on her goals. “This scholarship has kept me accountable and disciplined,” she said. Reflecting on the program’s impact, Rivera told supporters their generosity has made a lasting difference. “You didn’t just support my education,” she said. “You changed the direction of my life.”
Central Arizona College student Ariana Rivera speaks during the fundraiser at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino.
F
OR ARIANA RIVERA, THE OPPORTUNITY TO attend college came with both hope and responsibility. Speaking during the A Night of Stars fundraiser, Rivera shared how the Pinal Promise program helped ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education. “It gave my family a financial break from the big expenses that come with college,” Rivera said. Her speech was part of the annual fundraising event hosted by the Central Arizona College Foundation, which brought together about 200 donors, faculty, staff and community members Feb. 28 at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel and Casino.
Hometown: Chicago Maricopan since: 2017 Family: Mom and Dad, 2 brothers, sister
Pets: Dog, Daizy Hobbies: Volleyball, reading Dream vacation: Italy
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PINAL PROMISE, SCAN THE QR CODE:
Learn more about Kaydence at InMaricopa.com/Ge ing-to-Know.
InMaricopa.com | April 2026
April 2026 | InMaricopa.com
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