Eastern Arizona College

At Eastern Arizona College (EAC), the adventure truly begins with an educational journey rooted in a rich history and a forward-thinking spirit. Serving over 5,000 students across three counties, EAC is a dynamic community college known for its accessible and engaging learning environment. Guided by the motto, "Let the adventure begin at EAC," the institution prepares students for success, whether they're pursuing transfer degrees or workforce-ready skills.

EAC's history is a testament to resilience and growth, tracing its origins back to 1888 when it was chartered by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the St. Joseph Stake Academy. After starting classes in a single room in Central, Arizona, it soon moved to Thatcher and faced significant financial challenges. A pivotal moment arrived in 1933 when local residents rallied to fund the school, leading to the state of Arizona taking over and renaming it Gila Junior College. This community support laid the foundation for its remarkable evolution.

From those humble beginnings, EAC has transformed into a comprehensive community college, becoming an inaugural member of Arizona's Junior College system in 1962. Demonstrating its commitment to advanced learning, EAC achieved a significant milestone in 2012 by launching its first bachelor's degree programs in Nursing and Business, in partnership with Arizona State University. This expansion underscores EAC's dedication to providing diverse academic pathways and empowering students to embark on their professional adventures with confidence and a strong educational foundation.