PR

Mesa College Police Reels, MCC

Content Creation for Campus Safety Awareness

May 28, 2025

As part of a broader campaign to increase visibility and engagement with campus services, I produced a series of social media reels in collaboration with the Mesa Community College Police Department. In my role as Social Media Manager, I led the concept development, filming, editing, and production of each piece, aligning the content with the college’s branding and communications goals. These reels recreated popular trends to deliver relatable, engaging messages that humanized campus police and highlighted their presence as approachable, student-centered partners in safety. This ongoing content series reflects my ability to combine creativity with strategy, using short-form video and social media storytelling to enhance public awareness, strengthen institutional identity, and support broader PR and outreach efforts.

Facebook Posts

As Social Media Manager, I created the graphics, wrote the copy, and managed the publication of this post for Facebook, with cross-platform sharing to Instagram and LinkedIn as part of our coordinated content strategy.

Social Reels

Short-form vertical videos, or “reels,” were created from the original content and optimized for social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn to boost visibility and engagement.

Programs & Platforms

Used for creating, editing, designing, and analyzing content in this project.

My Thoughts

This project was a creative collaboration with the MCC Police Department, where we recreated a trending reel to highlight campus safety while showing a more personable, human side of our officers. By using a format students already connect with, we brought visibility to the department in a way that felt current, relevant, and authentic. It’s a great example of how content can inform, represent, and connect all at once.

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Mesa Community College marks 60 years of positive economic impact in Metro Phoenix, Phoenix Business Journal

May 15, 2025

Quindrea Yazzie

Read the full story on Phoenix Business Journal.

Phoenix Business Journal Advertorial (PDF)

Over the past six decades Mesa Community College has evolved into a nationally recognized institution with two campuses committed to academic excellence and workforce readiness. Today, MCC is a hub of innovation — nationally recognized for excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement and innovative education.

Built for today’s job market

At the forefront of education, MCC offers employer-aligned programs. Advisory groups of business leaders and subject matter experts help refine curricula, ensuring students gain in-demand skills. The result: workforce-ready graduates equipped with current knowledge. MCC’s eight- and 16-week formats give students the flexibility to fast-track training to quickly enter or advance in the workforce.

MCC 60th Anniversary Video

A strategic economic partner

MCC’s growth aligns with workforce needs, partnering with municipalities to upskill employees and support individuals seeking career advancement. Example programs include 12 business certificates for Mesa Business Builder Small Business Assistance initiative and a partnership with Chandler-Gilbert Community College to offer training in business, health care, IT and trades to Gilbert residents and business owners.

MCC works hand-in-hand with industry leaders to equip students with the skills needed for today’s most in-demand careers.

Information technology

Launched in 2024 in partnership with Jamf, the accelerated hybrid Jamf Training Foundation course gives students hands-on experience using Jamf to manage Apple devices in enterprise environments. MCC is Arizona’s only college offering in-person, instructor-led certification.

“Currently, the Apple Developer Enterprise Program job market has more openings than certified applicants,” said Alvin Bridges, IT director for the Maricopa Community Colleges. “In a few semesters, we can transform a first-generation student into a functional Jamf administrator, changing the trajectory of their life with industry-standard tools.”

Suraj Mohandas, Ph.D., vice president of strategy at Jamf, noted that Arizona’s growing tech ecosystem motivated the partnership with MCC. “Even though this course is specific to Jamf and the Apple ecosystem … these skills apply to IT admin roles more broadly.”

Construction trades

By 2031, Arizona is projected to add 37,000 new construction jobs. In anticipation, MCC launched its Construction Trades program in fall 2022. MCC is one of four Maricopa Community Colleges offering comprehensive construction trades programs providing students with a blend of theoretical, technical and hands-on instruction needed to succeed in a variety of high-wage, high-demand roles.

“We experienced tremendous success with our Construction Management degree and expanded our support for the industry by adding a Construction Trades program,” said David Cain, Ph.D., MCC Construction Trades program director. “Our Construction Advisory committee stressed the dire need for qualified talent to enter the workforce quickly at the ground level.”

Currently MCC offers training in carpentry, electrical, HVACr and plumbing. The program uses the accreditation process conducted by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), a nonprofit education foundation created to standardize curricula for skilled craft professionals.

Beauty and wellness

MCC earned success launching an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Beauty and Wellness in 2020, in partnership with Rolfs Salon of the Future, to create college educated professionals to advance workforce training in the beauty industry. The first program of its kind, it helps licensed cosmetologists, hairstylists and aestheticians enhance their business and technical skills with training in finance, marketing, communication and leadership. Licensed industry professionals may earn up to 30 credits for prior learning, which translates to nearly half the credits needed for the degree. Graduates can transfer to Arizona State University to earn a Bachelor of Applied Science (Applied Leadership) or Northern Arizona University to earn a Bachelor degree in Strategic Leadership.

Why partner with MCC?

As industries evolve, MCC evolves with them. Through strong industry ties, MCC co-develops programs, creates apprenticeships and helps businesses upskill employees. Focused on high-growth sectors like health care, advanced manufacturing, IT, beauty and skilled trades, MCC ensures a steady talent pipeline. Through industry-aligned education, students graduate ready to contribute from day one.

Looking ahead

MCC remains committed to education that empowers students, strengthens the economy and supports business success. With 60 years of experience, MCC is a trusted resource for workforce solutions.

Ready to invest in your workforce? Reach out to explore partnership opportunities: cteopportunities@mesacc.edu.

My Thoughts

Collaborating with Mesa Community College’s Institutional Advancement team to develop this advertorial for the Phoenix Business Journal was a standout moment for me. I had the opportunity to shape a narrative that highlights MCC’s 60-year legacy of workforce impact and innovation—while drawing attention to the Jamf Training Foundation program and other career-aligned offerings.

Working on this project reaffirmed why I love public relations and communications: bringing institutional stories to life in trusted media outlets, elevating student and faculty achievements, and strengthening community connections. Seeing our messaging published in a respected business publication demonstrated the power of strategic storytelling to inform, inspire, and engage a broad audience.

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Mesa Community College crowns new Miss Native MCC royalty, MCC

March 28, 2025

Written by Quindrea Yazzie in collaboration with MCC Institutional Advancement

Read the full story on Mesa Community College’s website.

MCC Press Release (PDF)

MESA, Ariz. — March 28, 2025 — Raegen Ellis, Diné, was crowned Miss Native Mesa Community College and First Attendant Tanielle Klah, Diné, was sashed during a pageant at MCC in February. Contestants participated in qualifying sessions including introducing themselves, answering impromptu questions, giving oral presentations of their platform and showcased both traditional and modern talents.

Raegan Ellis is pursuing an associate of arts with a concentration in social work and plans to transfer to ASU after graduation. Her platform as Miss Native MCC encompasses self healing with a goal of promoting self-love and care within the community through events and seminars. She is also passionate about the MCC DJ program and hopes to become a professional DJ.

Continue reading on Mesa Community College’s website.

MCC News & Events

My Thoughts

Working in the Maricopa Community Colleges’ marketing and communications team has given me the opportunity to do what I love—amplify the voices of students and share stories that matter. Collaborating on press releases and public information feels natural to me, especially when I can offer cultural insight to ensure stories are told with care and authenticity. As a Diné communicator, I take pride in helping highlight diverse experiences, particularly those of Indigenous students, whose stories are often underrepresented. Being part of this work reminds me why I chose this field—to inform, uplift, and connect communities.

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Join the Celebration MCC MARKS 60 Years of Excellence, UpClose Publications

March 6, 2025

Written by Quindrea Yazzie in collaboration with MCC Institutional Advancement

Read the full story on UpClose Publications website.

MCC Advertorial - UpClose Publications (PDF)

Join us in celebrating Mesa Community College’s 60th anniversary on Wednesday, April 9, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at both the Red Mountain and Southern and Dobson campuses.

The community along with students, alumni, faculty, and staff are invited to honor our college’s legacy and bright future ahead.
MCC President Dr. Richard Daniel along with special dignitaries will kick off the celebration. Enjoy refreshments and indulge in some celebratory cake and festivities as we reflect on MCC’s remarkable past and look forward to an even brighter future.

“MCC has been unwavering in its focus on creating an inclusive environment for students where everyone is supported to achieve success,” said Dr. Richard. “In addition, we deeply value our partnerships with the business community, which enable us to expand curricula and develop new programs to meet the immediate needs of our community and those of the foreseeable future.”

For the past six decades, MCC has built a legacy based on improving student lives and enriching the local community through academic excellence, cutting-edge career training, and workforce development programs. The college has played a vital role in the economic growth of Arizona, while shaping the careers and futures of thousands of students.

Additional details and RSVP are available at mesacc.edu/60/events. Please RSVP by 5 p.m. on March 31.

MCC News & Events

My Thoughts

Creating this advertorial for UpCloseAZ in celebration of Mesa Community College’s 60th anniversary was a rewarding experience. I had the opportunity to shape the messaging, highlight key milestones, and spotlight MCC’s long-standing impact on students, workforce development, and the community.

This project reminded me why I enjoy public relations—turning institutional achievements into meaningful, accessible stories that inform and inspire. Publishing this piece as an advertorial gave us the chance to connect with local readers in a thoughtful and engaging way, while honoring six decades of educational excellence at MCC.

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Public Invited to MCC Pow Wow, MCC

March 4, 2025

Written by Quindrea Yazzie in collaboration with MCC Institutional Advancement

Read the full story on Mesa Community College’s website.

MCC Press Release (PDF)

MESA, Arizona — March 4, 2025 — Native American dancers, drummers, authentic food and crafts are just a few highlights of the Thunderbird Social Pow Wow being hosted by the Mesa Community College (MCC) Inter-Tribal Student Organization (ISO) and American Indian Institute. The celebration will be Saturday, March 8 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the practice soccer field near the John D. Riggs Stadium on the MCC Southern and Dobson Campus, 1833 W. Southern Ave. Gourd Dances will occur at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. with Grand Entry of dancers at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

The Thunderbird Pow Wow is a signature cultural event that celebrates Indigenous nations from across the country, drawing up to 500 attendees. The gathering provides a platform to showcase Indigenous cultures in an educational setting, offering students, faculty and the broader community an opportunity to engage with and learn about traditions they may not be familiar with.

Continue reading on Mesa Community College’s website.

MCC News & Events

My Thoughts

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In 1968, Tony Occhuizzi met the love of his life, Diana, on a blind date in the MCC cafeteria.

How a Blind Date at MCC Led to a Lifetime of Love and Learning, MCC

MCC Love Stories

February 12, 2025

As part of MCC’s 60th anniversary and #MesaCCLove campaign, I had the opportunity to produce and edit this heartwarming video spotlighting alumni Tony and Diana Occhuizzi. Their story began in 1968 with a blind date in the MCC cafeteria, blossoming into a lifelong journey of love, education, and shared growth. This piece celebrates how college experiences can shape more than just careers — they can change lives. Creating this video was a meaningful way to honor MCC’s legacy and highlight the personal connections that make our campus community special.

Watch the full video on MCC’s Youtube channel.

Facebook Post

Programs & Platforms

Used for creating, editing, designing, and analyzing content in this project.

My Thoughts

This was such a fun and rewarding story to work on. I loved getting to piece together the visuals and narrative from shared memories to tell a heartfelt story that celebrates the connections formed on a community college campus. Projects like this remind me that college is about more than just classes, it’s about the people, the experiences, and the unexpected moments that shape our lives. Telling stories like this is one of the most meaningful and enjoyable parts of what I do.

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Still time to enroll in MCC Jamf Training Foundation program, MCC

February 2, 2025

Written by Quindrea Yazzie in collaboration with MCC Institutional Advancement

Read the full story on Mesa Community College’s website.

MCC Press Release (PDF)

MESA, Arizona — Feb. 5, 2025 — Students have until March 17 to enroll in the Mesa Community College Jamf Training Foundation (BCP265) for this spring semester. Following a successful debut in fall 2024, the industry-leading training course, which runs for eight weeks, produced impressive certification completion results. Nine of nine students earned Jamf Certified Associate certifications in Jamf Pro and Jamf Protect and eight are now Jamf Certified Technicians.

“With these certificates, some of these graduates have upskilled their positions and others have the opportunity to apply for internships, with the potential to progress into apprenticeships and IT administration and security roles in the rapidly growing field of device management,” said Suraj Mohandas, Ph.D., Vice President of Strategy, Jamf.

Jamf is an instructor-led, hands-on program designed to teach the skills needed to manage, secure and support Apple devices. The training offers a core understanding of Jamf Pro and Jamf Protect as well as an enterprise-focused examination of the macOS, iOS and iPadOS platforms. The example-based learning environment provides experience in the configuration of Jamf Pro, Jamf Protect, device enrollment, distributing App Store apps, building and managing packages to deploy to computers, configuration and settings for computers and mobile devices, device security, a scripting overview (Bash) and an introduction to the security standards.

MCC student Jackson Mirich earned Jamf certification in the Fall 2024 semester. Previously he earned an AppleCare Certificate of Completion and received information about the availability of Jamf certifications.

Continue reading on Mesa Community College’s website.

MCC News & Events

My Thoughts

Working in the Maricopa Community Colleges’ marketing and communications team has deepened my passion for public relations and strategic storytelling. I enjoy collaborating on press releases, feature stories, and public-facing content that highlight the achievements of our students, faculty, and campus community.

Contributing to stories like MCC’s Jamf training foundation program reinforces why I chose this field—to inform the public, build trust, and connect people through clear and engaging communication. Being part of this work is both meaningful and rewarding.

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