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. 

In March 2024, Mesa Community College will commemorate Women's History Month. We invite you to participate in honoring and acknowledging the remarkable women who have made significant contributions to our lives and society.

For the first time in MCC history, the ASMCC student government has not one but two fierce Indigenous female student body presidents! Their tireless commitment to serving both students and the community merits resounding applause. Let us celebrate these trailblazing women for their remarkable achievements.

Niahlyn Enos
ASMCC President of Red Mountain

“For me, being an indigenous woman is to be strong, love every living creature with your heart, care for those around you, and to walk with pride because your ancestors are always with you”

Kyauna  Jacket
ASMCC President of Southern & Dobson

 "For me, being an indigenous woman means celebrating life and women's contributions to history, cultures, and communities. "I believe it is critical that women, particularly indigenous women, continue to advocate for having their voices heard"

STUDENT LEADERS WANTED! Now accepting applications from candidates seeking election to the 2024-25 ASMCC Executive Board for both the Southern & Dobson and Red Mountain campuses. Applications are due March 25.  Find more information on criteria, positions available, application process and deadlines by clicking this link. 

Basketball Spirit Night: Red Out

Saturday, March 2 | 2:00 pm/4:00 pm

Support your MCC Thunderbird athletes at this Spirit Night game at the Theo Heap Gym. Admission will be free and we want you to wear RED! The women's game starts at 2 pm, and the men will play at 4 pm. Bring all your friends!

Concessions will be sold by the Student Support Foundation and profits will go directly to the SSF Emergency Fund to help students pay for college related expenses. 

Go THUNDERBIRDS!

School Spirit Discussion

March 5 | 12:30 am-1:30 pm | M200 at the Red Mountain campus

March 6 | 12:00 am-1:00 pm | Think Tank (Bldg 38, 608A at the Southern/Dobson campus

We want your input on school spirit at MCC! We're seeking STUDENT feedback to help in the creation of an MCC tagline that invokes a sense of school pride and Thunderbird spirit. Have your voice heard! 

*Free pizza for those who participate--students only please!

We Care Wednesday

Wednesday, Mar 6 | 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, Mar 6. 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 Mar 20 from 10 am-12 pm (drive through distribution outside the Desert Willow building).

Red Mountain Madness!

March 6 | 10:30 am-1:00 pm | Saguaro Mall at the Red Mountain campus

You're invited to join us at Red Mountain for our annual Red Mountain Madness spring party. It will include: 

Stick around after to attend a Women's Self Defense Workshop in S140, which starts at 1:30 pm. Free and open to anyone who would like to learn how to stay safe and defend themselves!

Women's Self Defense Workshop

Wednesday, March 6 | 1:30 pm | S140 at Red Mountain

Black belt instructors from Kajukenbo Martial Arts will be teaching a Women's Self Defense workshop for anyone interested in learning how to protect themselves if they are ever in a dangerous situation.


Please come dressed in comfortable clothing so you can practice the skills being taught. We hope you will join us for this important and useful seminar! 

Bags2Beds Worskhop

March 7 | 12:00-1:30 | Thunderbird Think Tank (28-608 A/B)

Hosted by AZ Homeless Matters and CCCE

AZ Homeless Matters was founded in 2017 with the goal to make sleeping mats out of crocheted plastic bags for the homeless. They quickly learned there was also a need for personal items and began making compassion bags that serve the daily needs of those living on the streets.

Thorsday's Open Mic

March 7 | 12-3 pm | Clocktower at Southern & Dobson 

All students and staff are invited to participate in a performance opportunity showcasing the talent within Mesa Community College

To reserve your space, sign up at this link. 

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.

MCC Festival of the Arts

March 21 | 10:00 am-8:00 pm | MCC Theater & Lawn


Join us for a day and night filled with artistic wonders, where every stroke of the brush, every note of music, and every step on the dance floor contributes to a celebration of creativity, unity, and pride. Don't miss the chance to be part of this artistic journey that transcends boundaries and embraces the beauty of expression in all its forms!


Night Festival Highlights:

Dances and Live Performances: Picture a stage alive with energy as students showcase their dance moves and talents. From dance troupes to individual performers, the Night Festival is the perfect stage for artistic expression and entertainment.


Student Vendors: As night falls, student vendors continue to display and sell their artistic creations, bringing a unique flair to the nighttime crowd.


Community Vendors: Local artisans, businesses, and creators join the celebration, offering a diverse array of products and services. This collaboration enhances community engagement and enriches the festival experience.


Calling all Performers! Students, unleash your talent by scheduling a performance under the "Talent" Registration. Be part of the festival's heartbeat, contributing your unique skills to the artistic extravaganza.

The Night Festival is a culmination of the day's festivities, celebrating the arts in a lively and inclusive setting. From the beat of the music to the beauty of the artworks on display, every element contributes to a night to remember. Don't miss out on this chance to dance, enjoy live performances, and explore the creativity of both students and the local community under the night sky! Join us and be part of this artistic celebration that highlights the incredible skills and passions of our student body.

Register for zoom link: http://bit.ly/3ScysI2. CAH takes place every Tuesday from 12-1 pm. See below for information about the upcoming workshops.

Center for Community and Civic Engagement

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. 

Mar 5: Homelessness in Arizona by St. Vincent de Paul and Andre House

Morgan Dirks and David Palladini discuss homelessness in Arizona.

Mar 7: ENGAGEME: Bags2Beds Workshop

Date: Thursday, March 7th, 2024
Start Time: 12:00 PM | End Time: 1:30 PM
Location: Thunderbird Think Tank 38-608 A/B
Host: AZ Homeless Matters and CCCE

Purpose: AZ Homeless Matters serves the those in need. Their goal is to love and care for our less fortunate brothers and sisters of whatever religion, race, or color, and without judgement. Come join us to crochet or quilt Bags2Beds and any clothing donations are welcome!

Presenter: AZ Homeless Matters was founded in 2017 with the goal to make sleeping mats out of crocheted plastic bags for the homeless. They quickly learned there was also a need for personal items and began making compassion bags that serve the daily needs of those living on the streets.

Co-Curricular Type: Academic Involvement

Reserve your spot now here

Mar 19: The Horrific Situation for Female Directors: Gender in Filmmaking

Presenter: Paulette Stevenson

In 2008, after making history as the first woman to win Best Director for "The Hurt Locker," Kathryn Bigelow expressed her frustration to a reporter on the lack of opportunities for female filmmakers saying, "Hollywood is supposedly a community of forward thinking and progressive people, yet this horrific situation for women directors persists. Gender discrimination stigmatizes our entire industry. Change is essential. Gender neutral hiring is essential.” Despite her call for change little progress has been made since then. Female filmmakers continue to face fewer opportunities and harsher scrutiny compared to their male counterparts. In this civic action hour, we will delve into the history of female filmmakers and explore ongoing efforts to enhance women's presence behind the camera.

Mar 26: Former Members of Congress Townhall

Congressman Bill Enyart and Congressman Erik Paulsen, moderated by MCC journalism students

Discussion between two former members of congress (This event will be held in person & online).

Upcoming Theatre and Performing Arts Events

Desert Echoes Flute Project Concert

March 1 | 7:30 pm | MCC Performing Arts Center

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

Invincible Ones

March 1 -23 | MCC Theater

March 1 - 2, 7-9, 22 at 7:30 pm & March 2, 9, 23 at 2 pm. For more information, visit this link.

Choir and Vocal Jazz Concert

March 4 | 7:30 pm | MCC Performing Arts Center

For more information, visit this link. 

Piano Duo Concert

March 3 | 6:00-7:30 pm

MCC Performing Arts Center

Michael Rector and Sylvia Hong 

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay

COme and enjoy piano ensemble music--free!

Hunchback of Notre Dame

Mar 29-30, April 3-5 at 7:30 pm

March 30 and April 6 at 2 pm

MCC Performing Arts Center

A new musical based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney film. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

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: Overcoming Procrastination? ....Maybe Later

3/4/24 | 12:00 pm | Thunderbird Think Tank (Southern & Dobson)

3/8/24| 10:00 am | Online: Click here

Topic: Preparing for a Second Year

3/20/24 | 11:00 am | Thunderbird Think Tank (S/D)

3/22/24| 10:00 AM PM | Online: Click here

Topic: Self Care for an A+ Lifestyle

3/26/24 | 12:00 pm | Thunderbird Think Tank (S/D)

3/29/24| 10:00 AM PM | Online: Click here

Thunderbird Athletics

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

Library Book Sale

March 18-29  | Southern & Dobson campus

Stop by the Library during regular business hours to buy some books! Proceeds go to the General Scholarship Fund

Most books are $1. CDs & DVDs $1. Special books are priced $2 and up.

FAFSA Fiesta

March 19 | 5-7 pm | Building 38 Rm 607

Click here to RSVP

It's a FAFSA Fiesta! Do you have questions about applying for FAFSA or do you need help with the process? This is your chance to get help.

Ms. Iaesa Wright

Inspirational Speaker for Women's History Month

Thursday, March 21 | 12:00-1:15 pm | SC-24 | Online link

Professor Rod Golden interviews Ms. Iaesa Wright, a woman of purpose & persistence. A woman who changes lives with her speech and her walk. A woman who will inspire you with her words and the conviction of those words. A woman who's mere presence demands attention regardless of economic or social status.

Please join us for this motivational conversation

FAFSA Lab now open!

Now through 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

Foundation Scholarship NOW OPEN!

The Maricopa Foundation General Scholarship Application opens on March 1, and remains available until April 30. 

Did you know that there are hundreds of scholarships available for all ten Maricopa Community Colleges from the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation?  One application....hundreds of scholarships. Don't miss this important deadline. Click here to apply. 

Free Tax Preparation

Are you a low or moderate income taxpayer who needs help with your 2023 returns? VITA is here to help! There are sites throughout the valley (including MCC). For comprehensive program information, dates, location maps, and requirements, please visit this link. 

FREE DENTAL HYGIENE SERVICES

The Mesa Community College Dental Hygiene clinic offers a full range of comprehensive dental hygiene services at fees less than most private dental practices.  If you're interested in FREE dental hygiene services, please complete this form to be contacted by a student who can answer questions and schedule your first appointment. 

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

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 : Mar 6, Apr 3, May 1

Red Mountain : Mar 20, Apr 17
***No distribution at RDM 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 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.)

Caring Connections Spring 2024: Week 7 -- The Power of No

Student Message

Congratulations! You’re closing in on the first half of the semester; take stock in your accomplishments and your “bandwidth” to take on extra tasks. It’s okay to say, “No, I can’t at this time” to focus on your goals. Check out this video of acclaimed writer and producer Shonda Rhimes on how to say No. FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) is real, but instead of thinking of a “no” as never, think of it as “not right now.” Keep a list of things you want to do in the future and use it to help you prioritize what you want to say “yes” to in the future.

Two things you want to say “yes” to right now are securing financial support for the summer semester, and reviewing the resources available at mesacc.edu/get-help.

There are lots of great spring activities and events to say “yes” to as well! Be sure to check out the T-Bird Times for all the latest.

Optional Lesson

Caring Connections Spring 2024: Week 8 -- Growth Mindset

Student Message

Have you ever felt helpless because you don’t know how to start a paper, solve a math problem, or respond to an exam question? Most of us have felt this way, and even had nightmares about completing a stressful activity.

Research shows our brain activity increases when we make mistakes and grapple with what went wrong and how we can recalibrate to achieve different outcomes in the future. Our potential outcomes soar the highest when we address the mistake with a growth mindset, when we celebrate our imperfections, saying, “I didn’t get it right this time,” or “I cannot do this YET. BUT I will keep trying!”

A great way to enhance your growth mindset is to plan for the future and seek out support.

Make an appointment with a tutor (virtual or in person), schedule a research consultation with a librarian, talk with your instructor (before class, after class, or visit during office hours), connect with a classmate, visit mesacc.edu/get-help, or access resources available in your Canvas courses.

Participate in the next Foundations for Student Success workshop: “Overcoming Procrastination? Maybe Later . . . (3/4 and 3/8).

If you are nearing degree or certificate completion, congratulations! If you applied by March 1 and meet all requirements to receive your degree or certificate, we hope you will join us in celebrating your accomplishments by attending the Commencement Ceremony on May 11, 2024. For more details, visit: mesacc.edu/graduation/event.

Stay up to date on the latest events going on around campus with the T-bird Times Newsletter, published the 1st and 3rd Fridays of each month by MCC’s Office of Student Life and Leadership.

Optional Lesson

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.