By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
Phoenix native Yolanda A. Facio is a new Rio Salado employee, joining the college five months ago to serve as an Instructional Service Coordinator Sr. for the Accounting and Small Business program.
“My primary goal is to help students achieve success and be prepared to enter the workforce, start a business, or chart a new path,” Facio said. “We have the opportunity, every day, to change students’ lives in meaningful ways. The best part is that the things we do don’t have to be big or grand. Sometimes the smallest action can have incredible impact.”
Prior to joining Rio, Facio spent five years working at the Maricopa Small Business Development Center on the Gateway Community College campus, a sister Maricopa Community College.
Facio’s passion for working with students is evident. In addition to her new role, she is an adjunct instructor for both Rio Salado and Glendale Community Colleges.
As a former business owner, Facio relishes sharing what she has learned over the years with students.
“I was a business owner in Phoenix for over 25 years in the construction and automotive industries and amassed a lot of knowledge and practical experience,” Facio said. “Working at the community college, especially at Rio, allows me to share that knowledge with student entrepreneurs.”
Facio shared a memorable student interaction that led to her joining the Maricopa Community Colleges.
“My first opportunity serving students was with a grant-funded program implemented through Arizona State University,” Facio said. “It was the first time I had ever taught a class. The course culminated in the Big Pitch event. One of my students, Ronnie, entered. Together, we worked hard to prepare him to do a live pitch. He won first place! It was the catalyst that brought me to MCCCD.”
When she isn’t helping students, Facio enjoys running outdoors, reading, eating fresh buttered Harkins popcorn, and spending time with her rescue dogs: Big Bella B, a Black Lab, and LuLu Monster, a Boston Terrier/Beagle mix.
For 2025, Facio is eagerly anticipating checking off one of her bucket list items.
“I’m really looking forward to a planned trip with my best friend next year to visit London and the Cotswolds,” she said.