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Special Supplement to The Glendale Star and Peoria Times
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WINTER 2022
CAREER & EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES [Your complete guide to local career and education]
MWU prepares nurses for careers BY STEPHANIE HERRICK KAYS, ED.D., M.S.N., FNP-C
Midwestern University Assistant Professor
ESTAFF NOW HIRING ................ 4 A special event management company is now hiring
GLENDALE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ........ 8 Expanding and diversifying the education committee
PEORIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ........... 10 Golfers raising funds for first responders in annual tourney
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or more than 25 years, Midwestern University has grown into a health professions university that offers more than 20 graduate degree programs at its Glendale campus. Its newest programs include a Master of Science in nursing (M.S.N.) and post-master’s certificate track in adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner (AGPCNP), an M.S.N. in nurse leadership in global health, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) degree with nurse executive and primary care tracks. Midwestern University strives to ensure that students have the best experiences to prepare them for advanced practice, offering smaller class sizes with core faculty focused on student success so students receive individualized attention and mentoring. The resources offered for our graduate nursing students are included with tuition, with few additional fees. Adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner students participate in virtual simulations, two on-campus weekend intensives prior to practicum experiences, and interwoven board reviews. Doctor of Nursing Practice students have access to user-friendly statistical software and begin working on their quality improvement projects the first day of the program to support successful on-time completion in 18 months.
Tristan Palmer, a Doctor of Nursing Practice student at Midwestern University, finds the graduate nursing faculty to be “inspirational and motivating, while challenging and supporting students in reaching their potential.” (Photo courtesy of Midwestern University)
The programs are well suited to working nurse professionals across the region, with didactic courses completed online and rotation options at clinical sites within their respective states. “I have admired Midwestern University for many years due to its history of quality medical education and graduates known to excel in their fields,” said Eva Duran, a Doctor of Nursing Practice student. “The faculty is incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, making my decision to pursue an advanced nursing degree an easy one.” Tim Dornseif is a transfer student in the master of science in nursing and the
adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner program. “Transferring to Midwestern University from my previous nurse practitioner program has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my education,” Dornseif said. “I wanted to be challenged and well prepared for my future nursing practice. It feels great to be in a program and part of a university that invests so much in building up so many aspects of our future health care team.” Midwestern University is accepting applications for its fall 2022 cohorts. For more details, visit midwestern.edu/nursing or contact the admissions team at 623-572-3215.
Advance Your Nursing Career
Midwestern University Tomorrow’s Healthcare Team
With Our New Graduate Nursing Degree Programs.
www.midwestern.edu/nursing
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Career & Education Opportunity
WINTER 2022
Heritage Elementary School inspires the future
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BY HERITAGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
eritage Elementary School is a tuition-free, not-for-profit K-8 charter school in Glendale that provides an exceptional educational environment. The staff focuses on incredible academics, community involvement and family values. As a charter school, Heritage adheres to the same major laws and regulations as other public schools. The major difference between charter and public schools is that charter schools have the freedom to set their own rules with regard to curriculum and teaching styles. Heritage Elementary, like many charter schools, was designed to de-
liver programs tailored to educational excellence and the needs of the community. Heritage Elementary School’s mission is to impart the best in traditional education set in the technology of the day. Heritage will prepare students with phonics reading skills, critical thinking skills, analytical reasoning skills, and the ability to become lifelong learners and productive citizens in a world of diverse cultures. Heritage provides kindergarten through eighth grade education with an emphasis on character as well as academics. Character education is presented in ways which allow students to learn responsibility and respect for
self and others, and that effective work yields rewards. Life skills are taught in cause-and-effect relationships. In addition, quality reading skills are developed through intensive phonics, math skills are emphasized, and computer technology is blended into effective learning. Teachers and staff are committed to each student. Heritage also emphasizes the importance of parents in the education of their children. For this reason, parents of Heritage Elementary School students are encouraged to sign a compact whereby they agree to take an active role in the education of their child and, to the best of their abilities, participate in school activities.
If you would like to learn more about Heritage Elementary School, call the front office at 623-742-3956.
Grand Canyon University in the heart of Phoenix
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BY GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY
rivate. Christian. Affordable: That’s the tagline for Grand Canyon University, the state’s premier, private Christian university. GCU’s staff helps students find their purpose by offering next-generation education via more than 270 academic programs with over 200 online programs in many high-demand fields. GCU offers generous scholarship opportunities and student support resources, serves as a faith-integrated higher learning institution cultivating students into servant leaders, and creates innovative learning experiences. Students learn on GCU’s vibrant, growing campus or within a dynam-
ic online learning environment led by experienced full-time faculty. As a transformative institution, GCU is experiencing an exciting era of impactful community influence, as well as campus expansion with new residence halls, amenities and academic buildings, state-of-the-art athletic facilities, two high-tech engineering buildings dedicated to STEM learning, and more. For more information, visit gcu.edu The information printed in this material is accurate as of February 2022. For the most up-to-date information about admission requirements, tuition, scholarships and more, visit gcu.edu. ©2022 Grand Canyon University 22GPS0003
GCU’s vibrant promenade is part of its growing campus. (Photo courtesy of Grand Canyon University)
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WINTER 2022
Career & Education Opportunity
Advance Your Nursing Career at Midwestern University
We’ll Build Your Future. Midwestern University’s new graduate nursing programs offer an affordable, flexible hybrid format to support working nurse professionals.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner • Nurse Executive
Master of Science in Nursing
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner • Nurse Leadership in Global Health
Post-Master’s Certificate
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Midwestern University Tomorrow’s Healthcare Team
19555 North 59th Avenue | Glendale, Arizona 85308 www.midwestern.edu/nursing | admissaz@midwestern.edu | 623-572-3215
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Career & Education Opportunity
WINTER 2022
Fun job! Estaff now hiring! VALLEYLIFE helps to
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BY ESTAFF SECURITY INC.
staff Security Inc. is a special event management company now hiring for full- and part-time Spring Training, concerts, festivals, commercial facilities and events statewide. Estaff Security Inc. is hiring security to staff these events statewide. These jobs are fun with friends and family with flexible hours. They’re perfect for supplementing income, and many primary positions are available. Military and dependents Estaff personnel staff special events like Spring Trainwelcome. Check Estaff Security ing, concerts, festivals, commercial facilities and events Inc.’s Facebook for upcom- statewide. (Photo courtesy of Estaff Inc.) ing security positions. No Call or text us at 602-621-2956. Apply experience necessary. Will train. in person from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays Send resume or request an applica- to Fridays at 6927 E. Thomas Road, tion at schedule.estaff@gmail.com. Scottsdale.
NOW HIRING!
FOR BASEBALL SPRING TRAINING At PEORIA SPORTS COMPLEX
Also: HIRING SECURITY &
EVENT PERSONNEL VALLEYWIDE H Full & Part-Time Hours H H No Experience Needed H H Fun Job with Flexible Hours! H Send Resume or Request an Application: Schedule.estaff@gmail.com or call
480-733-3883
Press Option 3 for more information
enhance quality of life BY VALLEYLIFE
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ALLEYLIFE is a nonprofit organization that provides premier services to individuals with disabilities to enhance their quality of life. The agency does so by enriching their lives with rewarding experiences and valuable opportunities — and enabling them to live a life with choices, independence and dignity. VALLEYLIFE members’ diagnoses range from physical, deVALLEYLIFE services velopmental and cognitive disabilities to behavioral health are delivered through car- diagnoses, age-related conditions and traumatic brain injuing and dedicated staff, ry. (Photo courtesy of VALLEYLIFE) specialized programs and advocacy. Residential services operate 26 group VALLEYLIFE provides residential homes, which function like traditional services, day services, home- and com- family homes, throughout the Phoenix munity-based services, and vocational VALLEYLIFE...continued on page 5 services to people with disabilities.
VALLEYLIFE VALLEYLIFE organization that provides programsthat and VALLEYLIFE isis aa non-profit non-profit organization services to men, women, and children with developmental disabilities. provides programs and services to men, women, and children developmental disabilities. Fullwith Time and Part Time
Caregivers Needed!
Full Time and Part Time Caregivers Needed! We are currently looking for caregivers throughout the Phoenix metro area including Glendale, Peoria, Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Applicants must pass a We are currently looking for caregivers background check and drug throughout test. the Phoenix metrotransportation area including is Glendale, Peoria, Reliable required. Phoenix and Scottsdale. Please apply at www.valleylifeaz.org Applicants must pass a background check and drug test. Reliable transportation is required.
WINTER 2022
VALLEYLIFE...continued from page 5 metropolitan area. Day services provide programs designed to improve independent living, social and recreational skills, and offer opportunities for community involvement. Home- and community-based services provide valuable support to people with disabilities and their families in the comfort of their own homes. Vocational services provide opportunities for people with disabilities to obtain and maintain meaningful employment through job search and placement, job coaching and development, and training opportunities. VALLEYLIFE members’ diagnoses range from physical, developmental and cognitive disabilities to behavioral health diagnoses, age-related conditions and traumatic brain injury. VALLEYLIFE has an in-depth understanding of how to meet the unique needs of each member it serves. Founded in 1947, VALLEYLIFE has been serving the greater Phoenix area for 74 years. For more information, visit valleylifeaz.org or contact Dede Houston at 602-216-6328.
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Career & Education Opportunity
Building a system of care in our community BY GLENDALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT
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he Glendale Elementary School District (GESD) is developing a school-based system of care center facilitated by the district in collaboration with community partners. This network of community-based services and supports will include a wide array of services for students, staff and families. It will be a hub for human services where community members are welcomed to a facility that provides a sense of safety and belonging and empowers individuals to be actively engaged in their well-being. It is an anchor in the community offering services primarily to residents of the 85301, 85302 and 85303 ZIP codes. Last year, on March 11, 2021, the GESD Governing Board voted on the closure and repurposing of Coyote Ridge School into the System of Care Center (SoCC) effective for the 202223 school year. The center will provide the resources necessary to improve the outcomes for those engaged with the
GESD community. Providers will deliver resources to create healthy communities through interagency collaboration. The goal of this crucial community project is to develop a coordinated system of care supporting child welfare, juvenile justice, mental health and education. Agencies work collectively to ensure that children with mental, emotional and behavioral The Glendale Elementary School District will launch a Sysproblems, and their tem of Care Center in the fall of 2022 to provide famfamilies have access ilies, youth and community members with access to services to support physical, emotional, social and educato needed services tional needs through meaningful community partnerships. to succeed. Togeth- (Photo courtesy of Glendale Elementary School District) er, partners develop individualized service plans for chil- strives to create expanded opportudren and families. By building on nities for stronger, healthier commuthe strengths and knowledge of both nities through the power of our compublic health and education, GESD bined networks.
ENROLL NOW GRADES K - 8
th
VOTED BEST 2020 &
SCHOOL DISTRICT 2021
GESD40.org
623.237.7100
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Career & Education Opportunity
WINTER 2022
WINTER 2022
Career & Education Opportunity
Learn, Stay, Enjoy and Discover! PRIVATE. CHRISTIAN. AFFORDABLE.
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As of Dec. 31, 2021, GCU offers 299 programs.
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Modern urban cuisine of Canyon 49 Grill, championship links at GCU Golf Course and NCAA Division I home games powered by legendary Lope Nation.
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Wide-open opportunities for career, community and business innovation.
For more information, visit gcu.edu Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Please note, not all GCU programs are available in all states and in all learning modalities. Program availability is contingent on student enrollment. The information printed in this material is accurate as of FEBRUARY 2022. For the most up-to-date information about admission requirements, tuition, scholarships and more, visit gcu.edu. ©2022 Grand Canyon University 22GPS0003
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Career & Education Opportunity
WINTER 2022
Glendale Chamber expands education committee BY GLENDALE CHAMBER
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he Glendale Chamber of Commerce Education Committee is growing. The chamber added three members from the business community, thereby diversifying the committee member structure. The collaboration between business members and education leaders allows the committee to address complex workforce development needs while remaining on the pulse of education. The education committee connects businesses’ needs with the passion of the education community. “Uniting schools, business and the community around educational excellence, real-world learning and mentorship will inspire innovation, drive growth, and attract investment into the communities we serve,” said Angelo Rossetti, committee chair. Developing career pathways focused on critical skills designed to meet the evolving needs of an increasingly tech-
nical world are paramount. Furthermore, advocacy at the local, state and federal levels to ensure appropriate funding and resource allocation for education remains a critical concern. The education committee is comprised of local education and business leaders who have a proven track record of supporting West Valley education. New education committee members include Cricket Barrientos, founder of the nonprofit Sounds of Autism (SOA), and Dr. Salvador Fernandez and Kelli List Wells, owner and co-owner, respectively, of Charley’s Sports Grill. Barrientos has an extensive background in the hospitality industry and founded the SOA in 2011. The mission of the Goodyear-based SOA is to bring a voice to autism. She designed programs that include Families of the Spectrum Unite, Life on the Spectrum, Life Skills and Responders Unite. Fernandez has extensive experience as an educator in the New York met-
THE IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION OF THE AGGREGATE EXPENDITURE LIMIT IS NEEDED TO A OID MAJOR DISRUPTIONS TO SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES Public Schools will lose over 1.1 billion by March 1st The state legislature already budgeted this money – allowing districts to spend it won’t give them more money or raise ta es This money doesn’t revert to the general fund. It stays with schools# just sitting there unspent Hundreds of Arizona schools are at ris of major budget cuts and could result in school closure How can you help? Contact your legislators, visit azleg.gov/findmylegislator
Left, Cricket Barrientos is the founder of the nonprofit Sounds of Autism. Middle and right, Dr. Salvador Fernandex and Kelli List Wells are owner and co-owner of Charley’s Sports Grill. (Photos courtesy of Glendale Chamber)
ropolitan area. He is the founder and CEO of STEM Happens Network, a program that focuses on helping schools and districts ensure they develop an integrated STEM approach. Wells’ background includes working with the GE Foundation as the ex-
ecutive director of education. In that role, she awarded STEM grants to local school districts and major STEM associations. She has worked with NASA, STEM associations and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Education Committee.
AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER MILITARY MEMBERS, DOD CIVILIANS*, RESERVE, GUARD, MILITARY RETIREES & ELIGIBLE FAMILY MEMBERS
SERVICES AVAILABLE:
Annual Virtual
• Transition Services (Active Duty to Civilian) Job Fair! - Mandatory Separation\Retirement\Preseperation Counseling - Mandatory 5 Day Department of Labor TAP Employment Workshop February 18, 2022 - Employment Assistance 10am-12pm - SBA quarterly Boots to Business Workshop - Higher Education Training Registration required! - Resume Writing and Federal Employment Workshops 50-strong.us/employerconnect • Discovery Center - Resources for relocation, transition, employment, housing, schools, and more! • AMVETS – Provides medical records screening and assistance with VA disability claims • Personal Development Information & Resources • Military & Family Life Counselor Assistance • Financial Counseling Education • Relocation & Sponsorship Services • School Liaison Officer - Addresses educational issues involving military children and youth in the local school community *Limited Services for DoD Civilians and their families
Contact us for further information: (623) 856-6550 Email: 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil 7282 N. 137th Ave. Bldg.1113 Luke AFB, AZ. 85309 “We’re never the wrong place to go!”
WINTER 2022
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Career & Education Opportunity
Airman & Family Readiness Center is never the wrong place BY THE AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER
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he Airman & Family Readiness Center at Luke AFB will host a virtual job fair from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Feb. 18, giving participants the chance to network with more than 40 local and national employers. Registration is required at 50-strong.us/employerconnect. The Airman & Family Readiness Center offers myriad workshops and other programs for DoD military, AFR, ANG, military retirees, DoD civilians and their eligible family members. In other words, anyone with base access. • Career enhancement programs: The Department of Labor TAP Employment Workshop is held for separating and retiring members and their spouses. The workshop details job search strategies, networking, resume writing, interviewing, VA benefits and more. The mandatory program started in January 2013. “Marketing Yourself for a Second Career” is a professional lecture for officers and senior NCOs leaving
the military. Learn about salary negotiations, benefit packages, networking and resume writing to help compete for jobs in the marketplace. • Mandatory pre-separation counseling briefing on separation/retirement entitlements. • Discovery Resource Center: resources for relocations, transition, employment, housing, schools and more. • AMVETS: provides medical records screening and assistance with VA disability claims. • School liaison officer: addresses educational issues involving military children and youth in the local school community. • Military & Family Life Counselor Program (MFLCs): MFLCs are here to listen and available to help service members, spouses, family members, children and staff. • Financial management programs: Some of these programs are available to active-duty military only. • Family readiness programs. • Relocation readiness programs.
• Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is designed to provide support to military family members with special needs. EFMP services include a variety of personnel, medical and family support functions.
Contact Airman & Family Readiness Center for more information at 623856-6550 or 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil, or visit its Facebook page, Luke A&FRC. The address is 7282 N. 137th Avenue, Building 1113, Luke AFB, AZ 85309.
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Career & Education Opportunity
WINTER 2022
Golfers raise funds for Peoria first responders
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BY PEORIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Peoria Police Department won the First Responders Cup. Pictured are Jim Willis, Jason Tarrant, Joey Smith and Amanda Gaines. (Photo courtesy of Peoria Chamber)
he Peoria Chamber of Commerce hosted its third annual First Responders Charity Golf Tournament at the prestigious Blackstone Country Club on Jan. 31. This event has sold out three years in a row as sponsors, business owners, local community and volunteers come together to show their support to local Peoria police and fire. This year’s event was even more successful. The event kicked off on Jan. 30 at Social on 83rd to recognize the generous donations from event sponsors. Law Enforcement Specialist, a national security firm dedicated to scheduling off-duty police officers, was recognized as the title sponsor for the second year in a row. Jason Schechterle, a former police officer, shared his inspiring story of the “fight for life, his triumph over tragedy and the inspiration that enables him to continue to overcome unimaginable adversity.” Special guests included Rep. Debbie Lesko; Peoria Mayor Cathy Carlat; Peoria Councilmembers Bill Patena, Bridget Binsbacher and Michael Finn; and 100 Club CEO Angela Harrolle. “We honor our first responders and their role in providing a safe and secure Peoria,” said Scot Andrews, Peoria Chamber of Commerce president and chief executive officer. “This event is a celebration, of sorts,
to say thank you by having a great deal of fun celebrating the important contributions to public safety these heroes demonstrate day by day.” The tournament day starts with an activity center filled with tests of skill and fun golf exercises, such as a glass pane break, flop wall and long drive contest. The opening ceremony featured a performance of “America the Beautiful” followed by a heavy metal electric guitar solo of the national anthem, under the shadow of a massive America flag hung from a four-story fire ladder truck. Players then interacted with hole sponsors, golf challenges and unlimited libations, cigars and food. Closing out the day was an awards ceremony to honor the scramble winners. The prize was also given to the winner of the first responders division cup. The chamber would like to thank the sponsors, donors, players and volunteers for helping to raise money for local first responders. “We know we will see everyone back next year,” Andrews said. Chambers of commerce are valuable, Andrews added. When consumers find out a company is involved with its local chamber, they are 19% more likely to think favorably of that company. How many other ways can you increase your company’s image by nearly 20% just by being a member? For more information, visit peoriachamber.com.
"INVEST TO GROW" PROMOTION
GROW
Mention code GROW for a 13-month membership at our 12-month rate!
For more information on joining The Peoria Chamber of Commerce, please email memberservices@peoriachamber.com or call (602) 979.3601.
peoriachamber.com
The First Responders Charity Golf Tournament Cup sits atop a trophy table. (Photo courtesy of Peoria Chamber)
Seven steps to upgrading your career
WINTER 2022
BY JOHN HECKENLAIBLE
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n today’s job market, opportunity is the name of the game. With unemployment at historic lows, there have been few better times to enter the job market or upgrade your career. Whether looking to enter the job market or advance your career, making such a move can seem daunting. To lessen the stress, there are seven basic steps to land that perfect job. Step 1: Identify what kind of job you want. If you are undecided, take a job-related assessment test to determine your skill set. Step 2: Update your skills by going back to school to getting a degree, certificate or by taking specialized classes. Step 3: Write a resume and connect with free employment programs that can assist you such as the career services team at Glendale Community College and Arizona@Work. Step 4: Share your career goals. You may meet someone who has the con-
Career & Education Opportunity
nections you need. Step 5: Consider taking an entry-level job with a company that can help you accomplish your goals. You will earn experience, learn about the organization, make connections and gain skills. Step 6: Volunteering is a good way to get your foot in the door while developing skills. Nonprofits can be very rewarding for people who are pursuing a particular purpose. Step 7: Use social media such as LinkedIn to promote your professional profile. Include your experience and the opportunities you seek. Following these steps can increase your chances of getting the job you want. If you have any questions, need more interview tips or want help in your job search, contact the GCC career services team. You can also attend one of their workshops. For more information, visit gccaz.edu/careerservices.
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A GCC staff member guides a student through job-finding resources in the career services center. (Photo courtesy of Glendale Community College)
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Career & Education Opportunity
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PREPARE THEIR FUTURE FOR SUCCESS
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