Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Maricopa Community Colleges Chancellor
Maricopa Community Colleges Chancellor Dr. Steven R. Gonzales announced today that he will conclude his service as Chancellor at the end of the fiscal year, with his tenure ending in June. Dr. Gonzales has served the Maricopa Community Colleges system for 13 years, including the past six years as Chancellor, leading the nation’s largest community college system through a period of historic growth, innovation, and stability.
"Serving Maricopa Community Colleges has been the honor of my career," Dr. Gonzales said. "Together, we have expanded opportunity, strengthened our system, and positioned our 10 colleges for long-term success. I am deeply proud of what we have built and confident in the leadership, momentum, and future of this institution."
A Legacy of Transformational Impact
Dr. Gonzales' tenure has been defined by sustained momentum and transformational impact. Under his leadership, Maricopa Community Colleges achieved record enrollment gains, including twelve consecutive semesters of enrollment growth, and developed and launched the system's first bachelor's degree offerings. This year, enrollment in Maricopa's bachelor's programs is on pace to surpass 10,000 students, marking an unprecedented expansion of educational access and opportunity across Arizona. He also successfully guided the system through the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring continuity of learning and support during one of the most challenging periods in higher education.
"Dr. Gonzales' leadership has positioned Maricopa Community Colleges for long-term success," said Maricopa Community Colleges Governing Board President Susan Bitter Smith. "On behalf of the Governing Board, I want to thank Dr. Gonzales for his dedicated service to Maricopa and to the communities we serve. We are confident in the strength of the system and committed to a thoughtful transition that builds on the strong foundation he leaves behind."
Key accomplishments under Dr. Gonzales' leadership include:
- Achieving twelve consecutive semesters of enrollment growth, strengthening long-term system stability.
- Launching Maricopa's first bachelor's degree programs, with enrollment projected to exceed 10,000 students this year.
- Expanding workforce-aligned certificate and degree programs to support Arizona's growing economy.
- Establishing the Maricopa Promise program to reduce financial barriers and expand access for students across all 10 Maricopa Community Colleges.
- Strengthening student support and basic needs initiatives, including the development of the Phoenix Scholar House for single-parent students.
- Maintaining continuity of instruction and essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Building a stable and experienced leadership team across the system's 10 colleges and District offices.
- Expanding Maricopa's impact beyond the classroom through community-based services and partnerships that address health, food security, and basic needs across the region.
- Serving on multiple local and national boards to advance higher education, workforce development, and student success initiatives.
A National Search Begins
A national search for Maricopa Community Colleges' next Chancellor will begin as soon as possible to support a seamless leadership transition. The system anticipates naming Dr. Gonzales’ successor before his departure in June, ensuring continuity in leadership across Maricopa’s 10 colleges and District offices.
What's Next
Following the conclusion of his service in June, Dr. Gonzales will step away from Arizona's higher education landscape and begin a new chapter focused on developing future community college leaders. Beginning next academic year, he will assume the role of Senior Executive Director of the Community College Leadership Doctoral Program at Kansas State University. The nationally recognized program, housed within the John E. Roueche Center for Community College Leadership, prepares current and aspiring leaders to meet the evolving challenges facing today's community colleges.
"For nearly three decades, I have dedicated my career to championing the power and promise of community colleges," Dr. Gonzales said. "This next chapter allows me to contribute in a different way—by supporting and preparing the next generation of leaders, including many who have served and will continue to serve right here within our system."
Dr. Gonzales will remain as Chancellor through the end of the fiscal year and will continue to support the system to ensure a smooth and successful transition. With strong leadership in place across its colleges and District offices, Maricopa Community Colleges is well-positioned to continue advancing opportunity and serving as Arizona's largest provider of accessible, affordable higher education.
Learn more about Maricopa Community Colleges at maricopa.edu.