President Kate Smith, Governor Katie Hobbs, Jen Sydow-Madoski
By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
Rio Salado College President Kate Smith served as a presenter at the Arizona-Mexico Commission’s (AMC) Membership Reception hosted by Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs on Nov. 21. As the AMC Education Committee Co-Chair since 2018, Smith highlighted the committee’s progress in making higher learning more accessible, equitable, and relevant to workforce development on both sides of the border.
“I firmly believe education is one of the most powerful forms of diplomacy,” Smith said. “It bridges divides, fosters understanding, and lays the groundwork for shared success.”
Smith said the AMC’s education committee is focused on building critical partnerships and developing workforce pathways in high-demand industries that span our shared region such as semiconductors, water treatment, and sustainable energies.
“By preparing students for high-demand careers, we’re not only creating a more dynamic workforce but also generating higher wages, stronger communities, and greater economic opportunity,” Smith said.
Smith also highlighted a new partnership announced in October at the AMC’s Plenary meeting in Hermosillo in the Mexican state of Sonora.
“We announced a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Sonora and the Maricopa Community Colleges District which will increase opportunities for teacher exchange programs, study abroad opportunities, joint academic projects, community partnerships, apprenticeships, and internships,” Smith said.
The MOU also continues the momentum of prior successes, including:
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The launch of innovative distance education models by Arizona State University and the State University of Sonora
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A training program for women entrepreneurs led by the University of Arizona near the Sonora border
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Strengthening partnerships through the Arizona-Sonora Interuniversity Alliance
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Financial literacy initiatives for K-12 students in collaboration with the Arizona Financial Education Council
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A Binational Community College Initiative offering ESL and online courses
“Thanks to the Arizona-Mexico Commission and its members, we are able to launch new academic pathways, expand scholarship opportunities, and forge partnerships that drive innovation in education and workforce development,” Smith said.
“Our ultimate goal is to cultivate a workforce that is globally minded, adaptable, and committed to lifelong learning— key to a sustainable and prosperous future for our region.”