Rio Salado College was awarded the Mabel K. Edmonds Excellence in Equity Award last month by the National Council for Workforce Excellence at its annual conference. This prestigious national award recognizes programs at community or technical colleges that demonstrate effective, equity-conscious practices. Recipients are selected based on six criteria: executive summary, excellence in equity, community involvement, innovation, outcome-driven results, and scalability.
A special acknowledgment goes to Reina Ferrufino, who leads the DEIB department and the Rio Salado DEIB Council members— consisting of 33 dedicated staff, faculty, and students— who guide the college’s DEIB efforts. This recognition is the result of a strategic roadmap developed through a series of team-building activities and listening sessions with the college community, which identified four key focus areas: Equity and Best Practices, Student Engagement, Teaching and Learning, and Assessment and Evaluation. The DEIB Council has established a roadmap with strategic goals, objectives, and projects for the years 2024-2026.
Additionally, the DEIB Council has been actively pursuing partnerships with local and national organizations to foster growth and inclusivity. Monthly and bi-monthly teach-ins, featuring leaders from other colleges and diverse fields, create opportunities to learn from best practices and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
This national award stands as a powerful testament to Rio Salado College’s dedication to fostering a truly inclusive environment— one that exemplifies leadership in creating spaces where every member of our community can thrive.
"As educators, our work truly matters,” Ferrufino said. “It transforms lives, shapes futures, and strengthens communities. We must continue to lead with courage, steadfast in our commitment to building a community where each student, staff member, and faculty member feels affirmed, valued, and a true sense of belonging.”
About NCWE
NCWE is an inclusive community of workforce professionals dedicated to sharpening skills, building networks and mentoring future growth.