Meet Pam Avery, a proud Gaucho and one of the first students to step foot on the brand new GCC campus in 1966. Having graduated from Tolleson Union High School, she had numerous scholarships; however, when it came time to choose a college, Glendale Community College was a natural fit. “I came from very humble beginnings; my father was a zanjero with the Salt River Project and had been diagnosed with cancer. To help support my family, I worked at a drug store in Maryvale, so I needed the flexibility that GCC offered, allowing me to live at home, work and attend classes.” Stated Pam. She continued, “I remember that enrolling was super easy and my advisors were outstanding.”
Wanting a career in Journalism, Pam quickly gravitated to the college newspaper, and Gwen Vowles, an English and Journalism instructor who also served as an advisor. In her second year at GCC, Pam had ascended to the role of editor of the Voice – GCC’s newspaper. She is particularly proud of her accomplishments as editor. “We had free reign and took full advantage of that by tackling difficult issues, asking hard questions and challenging positions held by the Arizona Republic & Phoenix Gazette, and the Governor of Arizona.”
After two years at GCC, Pam transferred to NAU and went on to a successful career in journalism, public relations and public policy. Throughout all of that, she kept an eye on what was happening at GCC. As we like to say, ‘Once a Gaucho, always a Gaucho.’ Pam stated that she has always been impressed with the way GCC has worked to stay relevant, continually meeting challenges head on. “I am especially impressed with the current leadership and their dedication to future thinking and putting the student first. I especially love the fact that GCC has courses in Critical Thinking. The ability to observe, take in information and form our own opinions is extremely important in our current society.”
In reflecting further, Pam stated, “GCC is doing education right.” She recalled her GCC art history instructor, who made the artwork they were studying come alive by discussing the context of the era that the painting was created. One thing that stands out about the great faculty at GCC is the fact that they have real world experience. She recalled that her English instructor was a published author. “What they taught was based on reality, not aspirational.” Commented Pam.
When asked about the impact of GCC on her life, she said, “I can’t imagine not having gone to GCC.” She elaborated by describing how GCC introduced her to countless new experiences and exposed her to so many worldly people. “GCC gave me the confidence to go out and achieve wonderful things.”
We asked Pam if she had anything to share with current students. “You can do anything! You have the ability to do great things. I know how hard it can be, I grew up poor, so I understand. However, I met students who were just like me, and they went out and became very successful.” She ended with these words of advice, “Ask for help. The faculty and staff at GCC are there for you.”