Onvida Health, in partnership with Arizona Western College (AWC), and Sunset Health, is proud to announce the launch of a new Area Health Education Center (AHEC) called the Southwest Health Education Collaborative. The initiative will expand opportunities for students and strengthen the future healthcare workforce of Southwestern Arizona.
Funded through an approximate $724,788 grant for fiscal year 2025–2026, the initiative will deliver culturally responsive health education, broaden access to care resources and create a sustainable pipeline of healthcare professionals rooted in the communities they serve.
Through the collaborative, students pursuing health and allied science careers will gain enhanced training, internships, mentorship and community-based outreach experiences. The program will focus on youth pipeline development, interprofessional education and hands-on clinical opportunities—ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the region’s growing healthcare needs.
“This partnership represents a bold investment in the health and vitality of our region,” said Shannan Gonzalez, Director of Area Health Education Center. “We are committed to empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals who understand and reflect the communities they serve, building a healthier tomorrow for all.”
The new AHEC is expected to engage over 2,500 students from grades 9–16 annually across Yuma, La Paz and Mohave Counties. Programming will begin in Fall 2025 with community events, student involvement opportunities and educational workshops rolling out in phases.
“This partnership is about transforming opportunities for our students and our communities,” said Dr. Daniel Corr, President of Arizona Western College. “We are equipping future healthcare leaders with the education and experiences they need to succeed while helping to improve health outcomes across Western Arizona.”
Onvida Health brings leadership and expertise in health systems operations, while Sunset Health, a Federally Qualified Health Center, will provide real-world training and clinical engagement for students. AWC is the cornerstone of higher education in southwestern Arizona, dedicated to accessible, high-quality learning that drives personal and professional success. Together, these partnerships ensure the collaborative is deeply connected to both higher education and community health delivery.
“Community partnerships like this are key to expanding access and addressing long-standing health disparities,” said Jonathan Leonard, Chief Executive Officer of Sunset Health. “Together, we’re creating a foundation for long-term health equity in our region
For more information on the Southwest Health Education Collaborative, visit www.onvidahealth.org/shec/.
