Maricopa Community Colleges and the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation (MCCF) are proud to celebrate the recent achievements of two outstanding leaders. Susan Bitter Smith, Governing Board President of the Maricopa County Community College District, and Judy Sanchez, Chief Operating Officer of MCCF, have been honored with prestigious awards acknowledging their leadership, community contributions, and dedication to advancing higher education.
Susan Bitter Smith Named Outstanding Women in Business Honoree
Bitter Smith is among the 25 honorees for the 25th annual Outstanding Women in Business awards, presented by the Phoenix Business Journal. This award recognizes remarkable women for their contributions and achievements in various industries, including education, real estate, healthcare, and nonprofits. The Phoenix Business Journal selected 25 remarkable women from 289 nominees for this year’s awards.
“I am deeply honored by the Phoenix Business Journal's recognition of our small, family-run firm,” said President Bitter Smith. “We are proud of our work for our clients in the development and telecommunications arena and grateful for their understanding and support of my engagement in important community work, such as the Maricopa County Community College District Governing Board.”
An Arizona native, Bitter Smith brings a legacy of public service and business acumen to Maricopa Community Colleges. She was first elected to the Governing Board, representing District 2, in 2020. Bitter Smith, who served as the Vice Mayor of Scottsdale, was the first woman president of the Central Arizona Water Conservation District Board. Known for her groundbreaking leadership, she was elected to the Arizona Corporation Commission in 2012 and chaired the commission in 2015. Bitter Smith is a longtime advocate of education and community progress.
Judy Sanchez Receives YWCA Tribute to Leadership Award
Sanchez is the recipient of the 2025 YWCA Tribute to Leadership Award. Sanchez was selected for her work in creating accessible opportunities and empowering students throughout their academic journeys. The YWCA’s Tribute to Leadership is an annual celebration that acknowledges the achievements of community leaders. The YWCA selected three remarkable women from more than 30 nominees for this year’s awards.
“I am dedicated to uplifting people who may face fewer opportunities, ensuring they have the resources, support, and empowerment needed to thrive because equity is not just about opening doors,” said Sanchez. “It’s about removing barriers and building pathways to lasting success.”
With over two decades of service to the Maricopa Community Colleges system, Sanchez has been a champion for students of all backgrounds. Sanchez began her career at Glendale Community College in 2000 as the Director of Development, a role she held for 14 years. Sanchez joined MCCF in 2014 as the Director of Development and College Relations. In her current role, Sanchez has strengthened donor relationships and fundraising initiatives, fostering partnerships to ensure students have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Both leaders were honored during their respective awards ceremonies on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
For more information about Maricopa Community Colleges, visit maricopa.edu.