Arizona Western College (AWC) is calling for donations to support scholarships awarded at its annual La Cosecha banquet. The event honors students who are preparing to transfer from AWC to a four-year university and have shown determination in overcoming personal, financial, or academic challenges.
La Cosecha, which translates to “The Harvest,” recognizes the achievements of AWC graduates in front of their families, college officials, staff, and community members. Each honored graduate receives a certificate and commemorative sash. Five students are chosen to share their stories as featured speakers during the event.
To be recognized at La Cosecha, students must meet at least one of several criteria: being a first-generation college student, relying on financial aid, having a disability, or facing significant hardships such as illness or loss of income while completing their degree.
Last year, 10 scholarships were awarded at the banquet due to contributions from staff, faculty, alumni, and community supporters. This year, AWC aims to increase the number of scholarships by encouraging more community participation.
“Through the generosity of our community, La Cosecha transforms perseverance into possibility—turning dreams of transfer into degrees earned,” said Martha Cordova, Director of the AWC Transfer Center. “Supporting La Cosecha is an investment in students who have overcome extraordinary challenges and are ready to thrive at the university level.”
The upcoming celebration will take place on Thursday, May 14 at the Schoening Conference Center in the 3C Building on AWC’s Yuma Campus. Donations can be made online through the AWC Foundation website by selecting “La Cosecha Scholarship” from the menu.
Media representatives are invited to attend the event.
La Cosecha has grown over time thanks to support from community partners focused on expanding educational opportunities for AWC students. The event became a formal banquet in 1997 with help from Candy Camarena. In 2023, Jimmy Esparza, CEO of Renewable Power USA, joined as a financial partner to help continue this tradition.
