Office of the President

The Office of the President at Gila Community College serves as the leadership hub, driving the institution's mission to provide accessible, high-quality education while fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment for all students.

Our President

President
Janice Lawhorn, PHD

“As someone who has walked the path of a first-generation student, a college drop-out, and a working mother, I understand the challenges that many of our students face. My journey has taught me that education is not just about degrees, but about resilience, perseverance, and opportunity. I am deeply committed to ensuring that Gila Community College provides a welcoming and supportive environment where all students can succeed, regardless of their background. I am excited to build on the foundation we’ve established and work alongside our faculty, staff, and community to create a brighter future for the residents of Gila County.”

— Dr. Janice Lawhorn, President, Gila Community College

Welcome to Gila Community College!

Dear Gila Hawks,

It is an honor and privilege to welcome you to the 2025-2026 academic year at Gila Community College! I’m thrilled to be your first president at Arizona’s newest independent public community college. We are dedicated to empowering you as you navigate your educational and career paths!

We are excited you have chosen to attend GCC and we honor the faith and confidence you have put in our faculty, staff, administrators, and District Governing Board. From the moment you step into the Administrative Offices on the Gila Pueblo Campus in Globe in the southern part of the county or the Payson Campus in the northern part of the county, you will be greeted by friendly, dedicated faculty and staff who will help you achieve your personal and educational goals.

Within this catalog, you’ll discover a wealth of opportunities crafted just for you. Whether you’re pursuing a certificate, associate’s degree, changing career fields, learning a new hobby or skill, or planning on transferring to a university, choices abound. We offer many different pathways to help you acquire career-ready skills, grow personally, and stay physically and mentally active. Our programs are designed to be flexible and cater to your unique needs to include a robust distance education program. We’re also proud to partner with Arizona universities to ensure easy transfer processes for you.

With personalized tutoring, test preparation, face-to-face library and online resources, we’re here to help you excel. Our passionate faculty and staff are eager to inspire and guide you every step of the way. Stop by either campus to discover what your local community college can do for you.

Your community college is all about you – let us help you achieve your goals and build Gila Community College together!
YOU are the reason Gila Community College is here – come define your own success.