Arizona Western College names Reetika Dhawan president, strengthens workforce focus

Arizona Western College announced on December 11, 2025 that Dr. Reetika Dhawan will be the institution's 10th president, succeeding Dr. Daniel Corr who is expected to retire by July 2026. The District Governing Board selected Dhawan after four candidate forums and a formal interview, signaling continuity in leadership and a focus on workforce and career training that local businesses and students depend on.

Dhawan has been at AWC for 18 years, beginning in 2007 as a physics and math teacher at Parker High School and later working as an adjunct instructor. She advanced to become co chair for math and engineering, was named dean of career and technical education in 2017, and served as associate vice president before becoming vice president of workforce development and career and technical education. She currently serves as CEO of AWC's Entrepreneurial College and Vice President of Workforce and Healthcare Programs, where she expanded programs through partnerships and grants.

In a statement included by the board, Dhawan said she is "truly humbled and deeply grateful" and that being entrusted to serve as AWC's 10th president is "one of the greatest honors of her life." She thanked the board, Dr. Daniel Corr for mentorship, and colleagues for their support, and pledged to work "tirelessly" alongside the community to provide opportunities for students and families.

For Yuma County, AWC's leadership choices carry economic weight. The college is a primary supplier of trained workers in health care, technical trades, and business services, sectors that local employers cite as critical to retaining and attracting investment. Dhawan's track record in building partnerships and securing grants suggests an emphasis on aligning curriculum with employer needs, expanding apprenticeship type experiences, and boosting certificate and degree completion rates that translate into higher wages for residents.

A celebration of Dhawan's presidency is planned for early in the Fall 2026 semester, with details to follow. Dr. Corr will remain in office through the transition period ahead of his retirement. Reporting on this story was supported by a grant from the Arizona Local News Foundation.