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response was brief and to the point: "Forget lengthy
credit classes. We need a center of our own, offering
short, non-credit classes and seminars." MCCD listened,
and money for such a center was included in the bond
issue that was passed in November of 1994. Marti
McCorkindale was chosen by the Maricopa Community
College District to head an effort to locate a site,
build a center, and plan programs to fill it, which
she did, remaining the Rio Salado College Site Director
until 1998 when she retired.
The original Advisory Committee gave RISE its name
and its logo was created by Charter member, Phyllis
Orsi. The Advisory Committee researched Institutes
for Learning in Retirement throughout the country,
and worked with the Elderhostel Institute Network.
In January 1996, RISE was introduced to the public
at a meeting at the Windmill Inn. Committees
were formed and volunteers began the task of creating
what we now enjoy. Those first volunteer committees
set about writing the constitution, developing curriculum
and marketing to recruit members. In August of 1996,
the new building was completed, a fall class schedule
was in place and the move was made from the storefront
in the Crossroads Shopping Center to our present location.
A relationship was forged between Rise and Rio Salado
College which hosted the fledging RISE and paid all
the expenses that first year. The new board consisted
of volunteers who (thought not formally elected) signed
an agreement to gradually assume responsibility for
RISE expenses over a three year period. RISE expenses
are covered from membership dues. It was not too long
before increased enrollment necessitated the hiring
of a paid coordinator. Although Rio remains a generous
host, supplying space, phones, copying, supplies, message
taking, secretarial assistance, etc. RISE is a self-directed
organization governed by its elected officers in accordance
with its constitution.
At this time, RISE has grown to such an extent that
it is a juggling act on the part of the coordinator
to accommodate the scheduled classes and all the members
who want to attend. In addition, this site is used
for testing purposes for Distance Learning credit
classes for Rio Salado College students. As an aftermath
to heightened security at Luke Air Force Base, this
Rio facility is now opened longer. With the increase
of population in the West Valley, there is an increase
in demand for educational opportunities by all ages.
Therefore, RISE eagerly awaits the benefits of the
recently passed bond issue
which provides for the expansion of this campus.
But RISE is not just bricks and mortar; RISE is
its MEMBERSHIP. RISE is people who come together for a
purpose. The RISE mission statement says it all:
RISE is a grassroots community based
educational organization created for and by seniors to
afford them the opportunity for stimulation,
enlightenment and interaction with peers in an
environment which encourages lifelong learning.
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