Yavapai College Celebrates Launch of Prescott Campus

On a vibrant Sunday morning, 427 alumni proudly donned their robes, signaling a hopeful future as Yavapai College introduced its Prescott Campus.

Graduates of all backgrounds filled the Findrate Yota Center—young high schoolers, career changers, parents juggling responsibilities, and even seniors—each celebrating their accomplishments with cheers and applause, occasionally overshadowed by air horns from the stage.

New Beginnings

As they accepted their diplomas, graduates flipped their mortar tassels, stepping into a new chapter of life. Keynote speaker Meredith Dunlap Starlett, Senior Vice President of the National Bank of Arizona and a proud alumna, conveyed her excitement. She commended the class of 2025 for their hard work and encouraged them to embrace both the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead.

“Beginnings and endings often stand out to us; they signify change,” she noted. “But the journey—the middle part—is where real learning happens, where life unfolds. Today is both an end and a start. Take with you what you learned for tomorrow.”

Transformative Journey

Character, diligence, and personal growth were central themes at the ceremony. Student speaker Susanna Marcinek shared her story, encouraging her peers to view this moment as a benchmark of potential rather than underestimating its significance.

“Growing up, I thought higher education wasn’t for me—I didn’t believe it was worth the effort,” she admitted. Yet, inspired by her mother and supported by her family, Susanna found the strength to transform her life. “I used to wonder, ‘Who would let me near a university?’… Honestly, I still don’t have all the answers. But today, I’ve earned a full scholarship to the University of Arizona for pre-med. I want to honor the beautiful legacy my mother left behind.”

Embracing All Ages

Dr. Lisa Rhine, president of Yavapai College, highlighted education’s role in fostering personal transformation. With pride, she noted the diverse age range of graduates—from 15-year-old Grayson Rhodes to 80-year-old George Poplin—underscoring the comprehensive reach of the college’s mission.

The graduation class of 2025 included 60 students earning Baccalaureate degrees, particularly in new business and nursing programs. Dr. Rhine also expressed gratitude to the 483 military personnel and their dependents who graduated. “We’re grateful to be part of your journey,” she expressed to the audience.

Video recordings from the opening ceremonies for both Verde Valley and Prescott campuses are available online.

Yavapai College features seven campuses across Yavapai County, offering over 100 certificates and degrees, along with various cultural events and community services.

Learn More

For further details about Yavapai College, visit their official website.