Looking at the front of the new DeAnza Dorm.

Arizona Western College opens the doors to DeAnza Residence Hall

November 13, 2024

Yuma, AZ (November 13, 2024) – On October 10th, Arizona Western College celebrated the Grand Opening of the new DeAnza Residence Hall. The 48,000-square-foot residence hall houses 168 beds and features community-centered spaces including a grill deck, theater room, and rooftop terrace with a view of the valley.

“The opening of the DeAnza Residence Hall marks an exciting new chapter for Arizona Western College,” shared AWC Dean of Students Nikki Hage. “This building, in part, will connect AWC to different parts of the world as we welcome students from all walks of life to call this place their home for a moment in time.”

In November 2021, the original, decades-old DeAnza Residence Hall was torn down, followed by a groundbreaking ceremony for the new building in December 2022. Costing approximately $25 million dollars in board-approved revenue bonds, the residence hall provides state-of-the-art facilities for students who want to both live and study on the Yuma campus.

“We are creating more than just living spaces,” Hage added. “We are fostering a community where students will forge close friendships and, as many of us have experienced, even find lifelong partners among their hallmates. This residence hall is truly a cornerstone of our commitment to providing students with an amazing experience.”

Prior to the building project, AWC met with interested stakeholders who contributed to the features and design of the building, including Campus and Residence Life teams, current students, and employees from across the district. As such, the completed building truly is a joint effort designed to meet the diverse needs of the AWC community. 

“This building is designed to foster a community of collaboration, inclusivity and a sense of belonging,” said Cindy Zavala, Director of Housing and Residence Life. “We hope that students take advantage of the different amenities it offers from the fitness center and rooftop terrace to the quiet study corners. DeAnza will be HOME away from home for our students and for future generations to come.”

After opening to students in the summer, DeAnza is now home to 136 students. It was designed by Thompson Architecture and built by Core Construction.

To learn more about the DeAnza Residence Hall and take a virtual tour, click here.

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Contact: 
Cindy Zavala
Director of Housing and Residence Life
Arizona Western College
cindy.zavala@azwestern.edu
(928) 344-7578