By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
Three Rio Salado College students are continuing their education thanks to receiving Tempe Workforce Skills Accelerator scholarships.
The scholarships are made possible through a 2023 partnership between Rio Salado and the Tempe Chamber of Commerce. The program was created to address workforce skills gaps in Tempe.
Through the Accelerator scholarship program, Tempe businesses offer three microcredential pathways to their employees to help upskill the workforce. All three programs are delivered entirely online and can be completed in 6-12 months.
The available programs are certificates of completion in Data Analytics, Quality Customer Service, and Small Business Management.
Angelica Dascent
As a single mother of two kids, Angelica Dascent returned to school to make a better life for her family. When she lost her job, she applied for the Tempe Accelerator scholarship so she could continue her education.
“It is just me and my children and since I lost my job I have been living on my savings,” Dascent said. “I have been getting the basic needs. I wish to continue my education to get my certificate because going back to school will help me get a better job.”
After she completes her small business certificate program, Dascent hopes to work in a job where she can help people.
“I have volunteered at many events which taught me that there is so much work to be done to help the unsheltered and prevent homelessness,” Dascent said. “My goal is to create a safe environment and trusted business where I can help people by listening to their needs and wants.”
Munira Smith
Munira Smith has been a marketing director at various companies in the Valley for nearly 20 years. She applied for the Tempe Accelerator scholarship to earn a college certificate.
“I believe a certificate in data analytics will provide the competitive skills necessary to succeed in a world where data is used to drive marketing decisions,” Smith said. “Many companies I worked for over the years did not provide learning programs or tuition reimbursement. This program is a God send.”
Smith said that family medical issues kept her from furthering her education in the past.
“The funding provided by the Tempe Chamber of Commerce will allow me to improve my skills without taking away from the medical resources need for my family,” Smith said. “The program will help advance my career and also provide the skills necessary for me to be an integral part of Tempe's workforce.”
Amy Weeks
For single mom Amy Weeks, receiving the Tempe Accelerator scholarship is helping her focus on her own goals for a change.
“My son is in college and his tuition is a priority,” Weeks said. “I need to ensure that he is able to pursue his education without financial burden.”
That left Weeks with limited resources to pursue her educational goals.
“I am a single parent who has worked hard to overcome significant challenges,” Weeks said. “Receiving this scholarship is a beacon of hope. It is helping me focus on completing my studies.”
Weeks completed the small business certificate last fall and is on track to earn a certified bookkeeper certificate this spring.
“I chose this major because it combines my interest in finance with a practical application that meets a real need in the market,” Weeks said. “Earning these certificates will equip me with the knowledge and credentials to run a business effectively, allowing me to create a stable financial future for my family.”
Apply for a 2025 Scholarship
The Fall 2025 Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation General Scholarship Application is
now open and accepting applications. Students can apply for hundreds of scholarships by completing one convenient application. Learn more at mcccdf.org/scholarship. The application deadline is April 30, 2025.
Donate to Help Students in Need
Want to help students like Amy, Angelica and Munira? Consider making a donation to the EmpowerED campaign, an initiative launched by the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation and all 10 of the Maricopa Community Colleges. Donations can be made through Rio Salado College’s EmpowerED online portal. Every contribution supports scholarships, emergency funds, and innovative educational programs.