The T-Bird Times is a digital newsletter, which is published on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month by the Office of Student Life & Leadership. If you'd like to have your event or announcement included, please click this button to be directed to a Google Form. 

February is Black History Month!

To learn more about events and opportunities happening at MCC and in our community, please check back to the T-Bird Times. More events will be added throughout the month.  

Paint N' Sip!

Jan 30 and Feb 1

Join students from the Black Student Union on Jan 30 at Southern Dobson from 1-4 pm in the Student Lounge, and on Feb 1 at Red Mountain from 1-3 in the Saguaro Lobby. Food, supplies, and drinks will be provided. Get creative!

Interfaith Panel: Stories of Faith and Community

Feb 7 | 9 am-11:45 am | SC 11E

To Celebrate Black History Month, notable African American women will present stories of faith, community,  and the golden rule. For more information on the speakers, please visit this link

BHM Recognition Basketball Game

Feb 17 | 2:00 and 4:00 pm | Theo Heap Gym

Mesa Community College will highlight Black History Month as MCC Basketball takes on the Glendale Gauchos! Join us for halftime performances, BSU club recognition, and fun giveaways!

Roots of Salsa

February 21 | 1-3 pm | M200

Join us to learn about the West African roots of the salsa genre, and the joys of the Caribbean. Presentation led by Student Ambassador, Cy'anne Beasley. *Red Mountain campus

Matriarchs of Washington Park & Future Matriarchs

February 1 - April 1 | Get Tickets

The MCC Gallery presents:

MATRIARCHS OF WASHINGTON PARK: The African American Women Who Persevered Through Racism in Segregated Mesa

by Independent Curator Bruce Nelson

Featuring paintings by Todd Bailey, Brie Bartz Bordeaux and Carla Keaton &

FUTURE Matriarchs:  The next generation of Matriarchs in their respective communities who provide us a glimpse into a more hopeful future for Black Women

Curated by MCC Artist-In-Residence Antoinette Cauley

Featuring artists Mia B. Adams, Shaunté Glover, Khandra D. Howard, Carla Keaton, Brianna Noble, Rhyan Johnson, Camryn Simone, Shoreigh Williams, Rae Wilson and Zybrena

Please join us for a Reception on Wednesday, February 28, 2024 from 4:30 - 6:30 pm.  

Western Region Council on Black American Affairs: The Unapologetically Black and Educated Conference

April 17 - 19 | Reserve a Spot

The Unapologetically Black and Educated Conference sponsored by the Western Region Council on Black American Affairs (WRCBAA) seeks to place the focus squarely on the measures, methods, and approaches that are underway and can be taken to boldly and courageously support the success of black students.

The two-day conference explores the various facets and means by which this goal can be accomplished through the roles black educators have on campuses both within and outside the classroom.

February Blood Drives

February 5 | 10:00 am - 1:30 pm | Red Mountain | Bloodmobile

February 6-7 | 10:00 am - 1:30 pm | Southern and Dobson | Student Lounge

Blood donations are critical need in our community. You can help by donating blood at any of our blood drives at MCC. Sign up to donate at either Red Mountain or Southern & Dobson. Sign up for your appointment at www.bloodhero.com using location code MCC. Walk-in appointments may also be available. 


Mobile Health Care Visit

February 28 | March 27 | April 24 | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm | Southern and Dobson Clocktower

The Mobile Health Unit from Native Health will be on campus on the last Wednesday of each month during the spring 2024 semester. 

Services include: Women, men, and child well checks, sick visits and specialty referrals. 

For more information, contact egarcia@nachci.com

Pow Wow 101 Workshop

February 6 | 12:00 pm-1:00 pm | General Questions: aii@mesacc.edu or (480) 461-7931 | Virtual Link

Celebrate Indigenous Heritage, Culture, Traditions & Teachings!

American Indian students make up 3% of Mesa Community College's student population serving 1000+ Indigenous students both in person and online combined. We have tribal representation from all across the US at our campus and value the fact that our Indigenous Nations have entrusted our institution to educate the next generation of Indigenous scholars and leaders.

As a part of being a good ally to Indigenous communities it is important to become informed about Native Nations and their diverse cultures. 

On Feb 6, 2024 the American Indian Institute will host a Pow Wow 101 Workshop from 12pm-1pm in the Navajo Room. Participants will hear from Cultural Consultant Jason Bird (Ho-Chunk & Omaha) about the history and teachings of Pow Wow including the dances, regalia, songs and drums.

We would like to thank the SENDAS Grant for supporting this cultural workshop and we look foward to seeing you there!

2024 Thunderbird Pow Wow

March 9 | 11:00 am-10:00 pm | General Questions: iso@mesacc.edu or (480) 461-7931

We invite the entire Mesa Community College Campus community to join us during this celebration where authentic Native American food, Arts and Craft vendors, Pow Wow dancing, singing and drumming will be showcased.

Did you know there are 22 Tribal Nations in the state of Arizona? In fact, there are 574 federally recognized tribes in the United States plus several more that are state recognized. The rich and beautiful cultures of these Nations thrive here at Mesa Community College as MCC hosts the largest Indigenous population of all ten Maricopa Community Colleges.

The collective of students affiliated with the Inter-Tribal Student Organization, will host the 2024 MCC Thunderbird Pow Wow to recognize, honor and celebrate all Indigenous students and their respective communities. This event will take place on Saturday March 9, 2024 from 11am – 10pm at the MCC Southern Dobson Campus, 1833 W. Southern Ave. Mesa, AZ. Gourd Dance begins at 11am and Grand Entry will be at 1pm and 7pm.

Working Wednesdays with Career Services

February 7 | February 14 | February 21

10:00 am-1:00 pm in the Navajo Room (2/7 only) and Student Lounge

Local employers and campus resources will be on campus to network and speak with students, staff, and the community looking for jobs or internships.

Focus of each event:

2/7: General 

2/14: Behavioral Science, Human Services, & Cultural/Society Fields of Interest

2/21: Business, Entrepreneurialism, Management and Computer & Information Technology Fields of Interest.

We Care Wednesday

Wednesday, Feb 7 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm | Southern & Dobson Campus

The next We Care Wednesday fresh food distribution is taking place at the SOUTHERN & DOBSON campus on Wednesday, Feb 7. It will take place from 10 am-12 pm in the Navajo Room and is free and open to the public! *Food available while supplies last.

This is NOT a drive-through distribution, walk-up service only

The next We Care Wednesday at Red Mountain will be on Feb 21 from 10 am-12 pm (drive through distribution outside the Desert Willow building).

Register for zoom link: http://bit.ly/3ScysI2. CAH takes place every Tuesday from 12-1 pm.

Civic Action Hour

Working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference; promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes. 

Feb 6: How to Engage with the AZ Secretary of State

Presenter: Celina Olivas

Insights into the Fellowship Program, Poll Workers, and Key Details on the Presidential Preference Election. This presentation provides a comprehensive overview of how individuals can actively engage with the Arizona Secretary of State. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the Secretary's Fellowship Program, learn about opportunities to contribute as poll workers, and receive important details regarding the upcoming Presidential Preference Election.

Astronomy Nights at MCC

Join us on the first Friday of each month for our Planetarium Shows!

6:00-10:00 pm in the MCC Planetarium | Click here for more info or to purchase tickets.

There will be four shows throughout the course of the evening, starting at 6PM and starting every hour with the final show at 9PM. Tickets will be available on a first come, first serve basis at the entrance to the planetarium. To guarantee seats for a particular show, tickets are available for reservation for $3 each. 

Semester Schedule

Feb 2: Forward! To the Moon

Mar 1: Mars: The Ultimate Voyage

Apr 5: Totality!

May 3: Tour the Universe with Pink Floyd

Veterans Welcome Spring 24

11:00 am - 1:00 pm | MCC Library (Southern and Dobson)

Get to know the your Veteran Services Team, Learn about Maximizing your Benefits, Mingle with fellow Veterans, Free Swag and School Supplies, Learn about Student Veterans of America Club.

Philosophy Club Meeting

Feb 7 | 1:30-2:30 pm | BP3N

First Philosophy Club meeting of the semester. Help us elect club Senators and set up topics. We'll also discuss the ethics of AI (as time permits).

Financial Literacy

Taxonomics Workshop

Live Online
Date: Tuesday, February 6
Time: 4-5pm
Location: Zoom

In-Person at Red Mountain
Date: Wednesday, February 7
Time: 12:30-1:30pm
Location: DW 131

In-Person at Southern/Dobson
Date: Thorsday, February 8
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: LB 145

The Financial Literacy Team is proud to present a workshop about filing taxes, "Taxonomics." In this workshop, students will have the opportunity to learn the basics about the process and calculations of filing taxes, how the tax brackets work, and the best practices with tax refunds.

Financial Fling

In-Person at Southern/Dobson
Date: Tuesday, February 13
Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Clocktower

In-Person at Red Mountain
Date: Wednesday, February 14
Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Mesquite Courtyard


Students can discover their Money Personality and make a button to display their Financial Fling pride.

Honors Open House

Would you like to learn more about the MCC Honors Program? Are you wondering how you can earn scholarships? Stop by the Honors Department to meet staff and learn more.

February 12-16

www.mesacc.edu/honors

Free Dental Screenings

The Mesa Community College Dental Hygiene clinic offers a full range of comprehensive dental hygiene services at fees less than most private dental practices. All services are offered during convenient evening hours at the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health's "state-of-the-art" facility. Patient care is provided in comfortable surroundings using the latest technologies in dentistry.

The Dental Hygiene clinic sees patients from late August through mid-May of each year. To make an appointment, call 602-492-7192. Leave a message, and your call will be returned in the evening. Payment is required when services are rendered. Clinic patients will be given a receipt to submit to their insurance company for reimbursement of fees.

Current MCC students can receive x-rays and regular cleanings at no cost. Students requiring more extensive cleanings will receive an additional 50% discount off of already discounted costs. Limited spaces available. Call 602-492-7192 to leave a message and your call will be returned.

Random Acts of Kindness Week

February 12-17

Sign up today to be part of MCC's Random Acts of Kindness Week, sponsored by the Center for Community and Civic Engagement. 

Pal-entine's Day

February 14

S/D campus: 10 am-1 pm in the Student Lounge

RM campus: 11 am-1 pm in the Saguaro Mall

Take some time in your day to hang out with your pals and make some friendship bracelets for "Pal-entine's Day!" Student Life will be there to help with all the supplies you need--along with music, treats, and more!

Honors Open House

Feb 12-16

S/D campus: 8 am-4 pm in KSC 35S, 175

RM campus: 8 am-2 pm in DW 145

Learn & Earn! If you have a 3.25 GPA with at least 12 completed credits, you may be eligible for the Honors Achievement Award, up to $500. Visit the Honors Department during their Open House (or any time) to learn more. They'll have free snacks!

Math Club Meeting

February 20 | 3:00-4:00 pm | MS 101 (S/D campus)

Join the Math Club as they have a fun conversation about the math behind the Pokemon core video games. We'll play our favorite Pokemon games and some Smash Bros on the Nintendo Switch. Everyone is welcome!

CTE: The World of Work Open House

February 23 | 9:30 am - 1:00 pm | Southern and Dobson Clocktower

The 2024 CTE World of Work Open House will expose current MCC students and approximately 500+ prospective students from all over the East Valley to MCC’s programs. Students will connect with academic programs, potential employers, and career paths through the presence of business and industry partners.

School Spirit Survey

Hey MCC students--we need your help!

Please share the following school spirit survey with students: we need their valuable feedback to help our college.

Click here to participate in this short, 3 questions survey.

*Students only please!

Gilman Scholarship Workshop

Tuesday, February 6 | 1:30-2:30 pm | Via Google Meet (click for link)

Interested in studying abroad this summer? Pell Grant recipients are eligible for the Gilman International Scholarship of up to $5000! Come to this worskhop to learn the details! Learn how to apply and receive guidance on writing your essay. Deadline to apply for the Gilman Scholarship for the Summer 2024 Study Abroad Programs is March 7. 

Study Abroad with MCC!

Experience the world. Study abroad! Earn up to six credits while exploring the language and culture of locations such as France, Ireland, Puerto Peñasco, Japan, Italy, and Namibia (Africa).

 Study abroad programs are available to students, employees and community members. Find out about programs, scholarships, and financial aid. Dream Big. Set Goals. Take Action!

The International Education Department is now accepting applications for the following 2024 study abroad programs:

Nice, France - Application deadline: March 1, 2024

Athlone, Ireland - Application deadline: March 1, 2024

Florence, Italy - Application deadline: February 2, 2024

Fukuoka, Japan - Application deadline: February 2, 2024

Puerto Peñasco, Mexico - Application deadline: March 1, 2024

Namibia (Africa) - Application deadline: March 1, 2024

Apply early to avoid getting on a waitlist!!

For information on all of the summer study abroad programs, visit mesacc.edu/study-abroad.

Upcoming Theatre and Performing Arts Events

Band & Orchestra Concert

February 27 | 7:00 pm | MCC Performing Arts Center

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit this link.

Jazz Combo - Free Lobby Concert

February 29 | 12:00 pm | MCC Performing Arts Center

For more information or to RSVP, visit this link. 

STUDENT SUCCESS WORKSHOPS

The Foundations for Student Success is offering student success workshops during the fall semester. Workshops are free and are conducted both online and in person. These sessions are open to all students. For more information, please visit this site.  

*The Thunderbird Think Tank is located adjacent to the Testing Center on the Southern & Dobson campus.

Topic: P.O.W.E.R. of Math Study Skills

2/6/24 | 1:30 pm | Thunderbird Think Tank 

2/9/24| 10:00 am | Online: Click here

Topic: University Transfer

2/20/24 | 1:30 pm | LA 3N (Southern & Dobson)

2/21/24| 12:30 PM First Session |  2:00 PM Second Session | DW 133 (Red Mountain)

2/23/24 | 10 AM | Online: Click here

Thunderbird Athletics

Support the MCC Thunderbird Athletes at one of their upcoming HOME games

We are excited to bring back our annual Pride of Maricopa Conference in person again this year.


Pride of Maricopa is the largest internal LGBTQIA+ training event in the District and is open to all Maricopa staff and students as we continue to create a safe and inclusive environment. This year's event will center around the theme “Empowering our Community.” 


Join us as we educate, celebrate, and explore the ways the LGBTQIA+ community can become stronger - together!


When and Where


Friday, March 1 | 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. | MCC So/Do campus


The conference is FREE and a great educational opportunity.  Check out all of the incredible things happening at this year’s event. 



Be sure to reserve your free ticket by clicking here

Save the Date: Pride of Maricopa Conference

Friday, March 1 at Mesa Community College

Be sure to reserve your free ticket by clicking here


Expand the image to the left for more details.


FAFSA Lab now open!

January 30-March 28

Do you need some help completing your 2023-24 or your 2024-25 FAFSA? This is your chance to get help. RSVP at this link.

CG301 Orientation Room (Southern & Dobson campus)

Tuesdays from 9 am-11 am

Thorsdays from 2 pm-4 pm

Follow the Student Life Instagram for your chance to win Thorsday prizes! @mccthunderbirds


What is THORSDAY?

Wear your favorite Thunderbird gear every Thorsday, greet your friends with "Happy Thorsday," and find your own ways to celebrate your Thunderbird pride.  Do you have your Thorsday shirt? Stop by Student Life!

ONGOING PROGRAMS, SERVICES, AND EVENTS

MESA MARKET

FOOD & HYGIENE PRODUCTS FOR STUDENTS

The Mesa Market is a food and hygiene pantry for MCC students. Any student is eligible to visit the Mesa Market for food and hygiene products for free. 

Click this link for a Mesa Market flyer to share with others.

Southern and Dobson Campus

The Mesa Market at Southern/Dobson campus is located in KSC 35S.  Open Monday-Thursday from 9 am-5 pm.

Red Mountain Campus

The Mesa Market at Red Mountain is located in Palo Verde 111.  Hours of operation are TBD. 

We are always grateful for donations to the Mesa Market! Feel free to drop off your donations to the Mesa Market at either campus. 

We Care Wednesday

We Care Wednesday is a food distribution that takes place on the first Wednesday of every month at the Southern/Dobson campus and the third Wednesday of every month at the Red Mountain campus. The distribution happens from 10 am-12 pm* or until supplies run out. The food distributions are open to all students and community members in need of food assistance:

Southern/Dobson : Feb 7, Mar 6, Apr 3, May 1

Red Mountain : Feb 21, Mar20, Apr 17
***No distribution in May

Clubs are an extremely valuable part of a student's experience at MCC. If you are interested in getting involved in a student club, please stay tuned for opportunities to meet our clubs, and consider starting (or reactivating) a new club! We are also seeking club advisors to help support a variety of MCC clubs. Any faculty or staff that are interested in this opportunity are encouraged to reach out to a member of the Student Life team. 

The Club Hub will have an updated list of student clubs (as we learn which clubs will be active this year) as well as important paperwork, forms, and a list of club connections to various Fields of Interest. 

Banner image for the MCC Club Hub website

Click here to visit the MCC Club Hub!

Get Involved and Get Connected!

Caring Connections Spring 2024

Caring Connections Spring 2024: Week 4 -- Engage

Message to share with students:
Did you know that students who engage in college activities and their communities tend to complete their courses and academic goals more successfully than those who do not? Participation in clubs and activities builds networks and offers opportunities to gain skills and develop leadership qualities you can use in your career. You can get engaged at MCC by:

Engagement with academic support is also vital.

Optional Lesson

Caring Connections Spring 2024: Week 5 -- Life Balance

Student Message:

When we have a balanced life, we are in a better frame of mind for learning and achieving goals. Please be sure to practice self-care, get enough sleep, eat healthy, and exercise – stretching and short walks can make a big difference. You will need to stay on top of your homework and other responsibilities, of course, but make it a priority to care for yourself at least one small way each day! Here are some suggestions and resources that may help:

Optional Lesson

Caring Connections Spring 2024: Week 6 -- Stop Before you Drop

Student Message

Around this time of the semester you may start to feel overwhelmed with your classes and life in general. Keep your momentum!

If you are thinking about dropping a class, STOP and speak with an advisor, faculty member, or counselor -- especially since withdrawing can impact your financial aid and academic progress. We care about your success, so please stop and seek help before you drop!

Visit mesacc.edu/get-help to get familiar with the wealth of academic and basic needs services available to help you succeed.

Stay up to date with campus resources and events by checking out the T-Bird Times Newsletter.

Optional Lesson

(A clever video from ASU, about the importance of conferencing with faculty, is linked in one of the class activities for this week.)

MCC Libraries

Find your place at the MCC Libraries!

The MCC Libraries are here to support you whether you’re taking one course or a full load of courses. We have two beautiful libraries with all the resources you need to succeed along with friendly folks ready to help you - come check us out!


https://mesacc.libguides.com/Findyourplace


Flipster: Your MCC Libraries' Digital Magazine Hub

Flipster is a resource for accessing a variety of bestselling digital magazines.

Explore Nearly 40 Popular Magazines: Flipster offers access to nearly 40 well-known magazines, such as Consumer Reports, Rolling Stone, Time, and People. Whether your interest lies in reports, music trends, or home decor inspiration, Flipster has a curated collection for you.

Seamless Access from Anywhere: Conveniently browse digital versions of your preferred magazines from your desktop, tablet, or phone. For on-the-go reading, simply download the Flipster mobile app from iTunes, the Google Play store, or the Amazon App store. The app is compatible with Android and iOS devices, including iPad and iPhone. Note: In the app, search for "Mesa Community College" and use your MEID and password to login.

Effortless Navigation with Flipster: Unsure where to begin? Watch a short tutorial (3:23) to understand the straightforward process of searching for magazines and navigating the platform.

Ready to Dive In?: Flipster is here to enhance your reading experience. Access, explore, and enjoy the best in digital content—all at your fingertips. Get started here.

MCC Fitness Center Memberships

Start the new semester STRONG! Did you know you can sign up for a membership to the MCC Fitness Centers? They provide membership access to students, employees, and the community, and a membership gives you access to both the Southern and Dobson and the Red Mountain campus fitness centers.  Membership includes cardio and strength training equipment, fitness tools/accessories, access to drop in group fitness classes, personal training consultation and 1 complementary session, knowledgeable staff, day use lockers, clean facilities, and no crowds!

Also available: Community Ed memberships, PED 101/PED 115 classes for credit and a variety of fitness classes. Visit the Fitness Center website for a schedule and more information.

For a FREE ONE WEEK Guest Pass to the MCC Fitness Center, click this link.

For more information on Student Life, visit our website

STUDENT LIFE & LEADERSHIP

Student Life is here to help you GET ENGAGED and GET CONNECTED at MCC. 

Getting involved makes a HUGE difference in your MCC experience. Check out Student Life for more information on these opportunities. Visit us in KSC 35S at the SoDo campus or in Mesquite 210 at Red Mountain, or check out our Virtual Student Life Center for more information.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. The Maricopa County Community College District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, http://www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.