The following is a recent conversation with the Gaucho, the mascot for Glendale Community College, where he shared his thoughts on turning sixty, the changes he has seen, why he is excited for the future, and his secrets for looking so young.
The GCC Student Union was quiet on the recent Friday afternoon when I sat down to meet with the Gaucho. Comfortably attired in his trademark outfit; boots, scarf, red poncho, bombachas trousers, and of course his wide brimmed felt hat - he leaned back while slowly sipping his coffee. He admitted, “I’d rather be drinking yerba mate tea, the traditional drink of the Argentine Pampas, especially if I could enjoy it the traditional way, sharing it in a mate with friends, sipping from a bombilla. But the great coffee from the Original Marketplace is a wonderful alternative,” as he nods and waves at the smiling staff at the coffee bar.
“First things first” I said, “How do you manage to stay looking so young? I’m sure your fans would love to hear your secret for maintaining such a youthful appearance.”
With his ever present smile, he humbly answered. “Thank you, it's no secret really. I spend a lot of time in the GCC fitness center, working on weights and cardio, plus taking fitness classes. Also this really helps” as he gestured to his ever present hat, “It keeps the sun off my face, and I have a moisturizing routine that I follow diligently.” Earnestly he added, “It’s really the students that keep me young. I am continually energized by their enthusiasm and the constant activity on campus.”
I chimed in, “I would think you’d get exhausted by everything that is going on here at GCC.”
“Quite the contrary, I bounce from club activities, theatre performances, athletic events, music ensembles, guest speakers, to volunteering with students - all the excitement gives me energy. The more I do, the more pumped up I get…and there is so much going on. Add to that, there is always learning happening. I know that being on campus all these years keeps me feeling young. When you feel young, you look young.”
“Tell me,” I said, “what are your thoughts on all the changes you’ve seen over the past sixty years.
After a long wistful pause, the Gaucho answered. “Sixty years ago all of this was farmland,” as he gestured with his arms to indicate the area around GCC. “And campus was several miles north of the small town of Glendale. The economy was largely agricultural. And now look at it, we are in the middle of a vibrant, growing urban community. I’ve watched as GCC has continually changed to meet the needs of students.” Shaking his head laughing, he went on, “I remember back in 1967 when we hired our first computer instructor. We weren’t sure if there was much of a future in computers. You are probably too young to remember punch cards, we had to dial into the shared Main Frame at Phoenix College. Fast forward to today when we have the Gaucho Security Operations Center…the premier cyber security program of its kind in Arizona.”
“I don’t want to take too much more of your time,” I said, “One last question. What about the next sixty years?
The Gaucho was quick to answer. “More of the same, in every possible positive way.” After thinking a bit, he went on. “GCC has a vision for the future and a plan on how to get there. It isn’t some document gathering dust on a shelf. It is a philosophy and action plan that permeates through all departments, faculty and staff. I see it every day, the drive to meet the needs of the future workforce, anticipating where technology will take us and making sure we are providing unmatched opportunities to anyone with a thirst for knowledge and dreams of a better future for themselves and their family.”
“Well, this has certainly been insightful, do you have any final thoughts you would like to share?”
Jumping up out of his chair and looking at the clock he said, “I really have to run, there is a performance at the Soleri Amphitheater that I need to get to. A Gaucho’s work is never done!” As he rushed away, he looked over his shoulder and said. That’s the way I like it, there is so much to do, there is always something great happening. I never want to leave here.”