Today, AZ Blue Health Choice and the AZ Blue Foundation (AZ Blue) announced a new scholarship program in partnership with the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation (MCCF) to support students in several of Maricopa Community Colleges healthcare programs including the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs) programs and the Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health offered at South Mountain Community College (SMCC).
Maricopa Community Colleges Governing Board President Susan Bitter Smith, MCCF Chief Operating Officer Judy Sanchez, and MCCF Board Chair Julie Rees joined college faculty and staff, along with AZ Blue leaders Heather Carter, Medicaid Segment General Manager and Health Choice of Arizona CEO, and Christine Bracamonte Wiggs, Vice President, Community & Health Advancement, to kick off the new initiative by presenting Maricopa Community Colleges with a $200,000 check.
“We know that scholarships play a critical role in helping students reach their academic goals, especially those balancing jobs, family, and extracurricular activities,” said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Maricopa Community Colleges Chancellor. “This new scholarship initiative will help students stay on track, allowing them the opportunity to move into rewarding careers that give back to the communities we serve.”
What’s New
Thanks to a $200,000 grant, the scholarship program will serve up to 400 eligible, low-income students, providing $500 to cover tuition and fees. The scholarship will be dispersed during the 2025-26 academic year.
“We’re proud to invest in students who will go on to strengthen Arizona’s health system,” said Carter. “This is more than a scholarship—it’s a chance for students to start careers that will make an impact in the lives of Arizonans.”
Why It Matters
Arizona continues to experience a shortage of healthcare professionals, including nurses, behavioral health professionals, and support staff. By 2030, the state is expected to see a shortfall of 23,300 health workers. Furthermore, the disparity among mental health services continues to rise, with the state meeting only 40% of residents’ needs. Each year, Maricopa Community Colleges train more than 8,000 students in healthcare-related academic programs. In addition, Maricopa Community Colleges produce nearly one-third of Arizona nurses.
AZ Blue has a rich history of helping students enter careers in health-related fields. This grant funding is part of a larger effort to ensure more Arizonans have access to the critical care they need. AZ Blue’s generous contribution will help Arizona move closer to its education attainment goals while strengthening the state’s talent pipeline.
“This gift from AZ Blue is a step in shaping the future of care. By investing in our students, we are making sure that our state can meet the health needs of tomorrow,” said Paul Penzone, Chief Community Relations Officer at AZ Blue.
Learn more about Maricopa Community Colleges' healthcare education programs here.