Eastern Arizona College logo

Eastern Arizona College

Thatcher, AZ

publicassociates

Quick Facts

Let the adventure begin at EAC.

1888
Founded
Community College
Type
5,076
Total Students
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Todd Haynie

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Eastern Arizona College

Eastern Arizona College: A historic community college where adventure and education converge.

Eastern Arizona College (EAC) invites you to "Let the adventure begin!" Established in 1888, EAC is a dynamic community college known for its rich history, unwavering community support, and commitment to student success. Serving three counties, EAC provides a welcoming environment for over 5,000 students seeking a strong academic foundation and diverse educational pathways.

EAC's journey began humbly as the St. Joseph Stake Academy, chartered by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After facing financial challenges, the local community rallied in 1933, ensuring the college's survival and its transition to state ownership. This resilience has been a hallmark of EAC, as it grew from a one-room schoolhouse to become an inaugural member of Arizona's Junior College system in 1962, continuously adapting and expanding its campus to meet student needs.

Today, EAC offers more than just associate degrees; it provides unique opportunities for advanced study through a groundbreaking partnership with Arizona State University. Launched in 2012, this collaboration allows students to pursue bachelor's degrees in high-demand fields like nursing and business directly on EAC's campus. Whether you're starting your higher education journey or aiming for a bachelor's, Eastern Arizona College is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and preparing you for a successful future.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1888, boasting a rich history of over 130 years of education.
  • Serves over 5,076 students across three counties, offering a vibrant learning community.
  • Inaugural member of Arizona's Junior College system, established in 1962.
  • Offers bachelor's degree programs in Nursing and Business through a pioneering partnership with Arizona State University (launched 2012).
  • Rooted in strong community support, having been funded by Graham County residents in 1933.
  • Motto: "Let the adventure begin at EAC."

Timeline

1888
Chartered by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
1890
Classes begin as the St. Joseph Stake Academy with 17 students.
1933
Residents of Graham County pass an initiative funding the school; state of Arizona takes over, renaming it Gila Junior College of Graham County.
1950
Name changed to Eastern Arizona Junior College.
1962
Becomes the inaugural member of Arizona's newly created Junior College system.
1966
Name changed to Eastern Arizona College.
1979
Old Main building destroyed by fires.
1987
Celebrates its centennial during the 1987-88 school year.
2012
Launches its first bachelor's degree programs (nursing and business) in partnership with Arizona State University.
🏛️
138 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Todd Haynie
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Eastern Arizona College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search