�Թ�����

PHOENIX, AZ - April 23, 2025 – In a colorful celebration of community, �Թ����� hosted “Chalk it Up” today. The event served as a creative and heartfelt way for students, faculty, and staff to come together during a typically high-stress time in the semester, just ahead of finals week, and take a moment to reconnect with friends and colleagues.

The “Chalk it Up” event invited all participants to grab chalk and cover the walkways and benches of Sophomore Square with colorful messages of hope and encouragement—literally chalking up the campus with art and notes of positivity. 

�Թ����� also recognized its recent honor from NISOD (National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development) as one of the Most Promising Places to Work, chalking it up to the collaborative spirit and culture of kindness that defines the �Թ����� community. 

In a nod to National Picnic Day, which also falls on April 23rd, college staff handed out free snacks, drinks, and fresh-grilled hot dogs, creating a relaxing spot where students could take a break, grab a bite, and enjoy being together.

“Today offered a moment to reflect and celebrate the incredible faculty, staff, and students who make �Թ����� so special,” said Dr. Kimberly Britt, President of �Թ�����. “Events like this shine a light on the strength of our community. During stressful moments, these simple acts of kindness and encouragement can make all the difference, reminding us that we’re all in this together.”

Faculty and staff came out to cheer on students and engage with the campus community in a more personal, relaxed setting, many of them adding their own designs and words of encouragement in chalk.

“As a geologist, I see beauty and meaning in layers,” said Joe Drosendahl, Geology Faculty. “Drawing the Grand Canyon was my way of reminding students that even the toughest terrain is formed over time—and with pressure and perseverance, something truly awe-inspiring can emerge.”

Students expressed appreciation for the thoughtful event, noting how meaningful even small gestures of encouragement can be during this intense time of year.

“I’m feeling the end-of-the-semester pressure to finish assignments and projects, which are piling up. I love art so when I saw an email about this event I decided to stop by between classes. This has been so calming, relaxing, and fun” said Jade Trujillo, a graphic design major with plans to graduate in 2026.

�Թ����� remains committed to creating spaces where every member of the community feels valued, supported, and inspired to thrive. “Chalk it Up” is one of many initiatives that highlights the college’s dedication to student success and well-being.

For more information about �Թ����� and upcoming events, visit.