Overcoming Obstacles, Building a Future

Compiled and edited by Anne Denogean, Marketing, Communications and Strategic Outreach

Meet three graduates from Pima’s Class of 2026 whose journeys didn’t follow a straight line. After a 30-year break, through serious illness, and in the wake of personal loss, each found a way forward. Discover how they began, what carried them through, and where they’re headed next.

Kimberly Jo

Business Administration
Tucson, AZ

What's your Pima story you'd like to share with the world?
I’ve always loved learning, from graduating Anaheim High as a four-year National Honor Society member to earning a 3.9 GPA at UEI College. After my health forced me to leave my leadership role at The Salvation Army, I returned to school in 2024 to start a new path. With support from Pima, FAFSA and a full scholarship, I’m building a career where I can grow, contribute and stay independent. I’m deeply grateful that Pima helped me start that new chapter.

Why did you choose Pima?
I decided to attend Pima because I kept looking for a way to return to school, and Pima was the place that truly supported me. They offered resources, encouragement and a welcoming environment that made me feel capable of starting again. Pima helped me believe in my goals and gave me the foundation to keep going.

What's your best "Pima Pro Tip" for a new student just starting out here?
Search for help and do not be afraid of asking questions and researching your options.

What quote would you want under your picture in a Pima yearbook?
To my kids: “My cuties, I showed you the way. Now go further… and make it look easy.”

Charles Oldham-Fifer

Machine Tool Technology
Tucson, AZ

What’s your Pima story?
I took my first class at Pima in 1999, last millennium. After nearly three decades of trial and error, giving up and eventually trying again, I am so proud to be graduating with Honors! Shout-out to (Honors faculty) Kyley Segers! And thank you to all my brilliant instructors and my amazing family.

What was your program of study?
Precision machining. Every instructor was over-qualified, just so talented and intelligent. Taking classes such as Geodimensioning and Tolerancing with Aaron Dinius and Mastercam with Jay Deaver have made my career what I wanted it to be.

What do you enjoy outside of school?
Being a dad! In fact, I chose Pima not only to further my career, but also to set a good example for my 6-year-old daughter, Bishop. I want to show her the importance of education.

Looking to the Future
I plan on taking more classes at Pima and will eventually transfer to the University of Arizona.

Cienna Menke

Associate in Liberal Arts
Tucson, AZ

What was your program of study, and why did you select it?
Associate in Liberal Arts, focusing on Surgical Technology. I chose this program because I will be going down the path of health sciences in my further years of education.

What stood out most about your experience in your program?
The amount of care and understanding that the science department teachers have shown is amazing; they made my experience memorable.

What was your favorite Pima student perk?
The student Library Database "mega-search."

Looking to the Future
I plan to continue along my Pre-Med path. I will start the Surgical Technology Program in August of this year, while also working online through NAU to earn my Bachelor's in Health Sciences with an emphasis in Surgical Technology. I plan to pursue a master’s and become a physician’s assistant.

What was the biggest challenge in your educational journey?
Pretty early into my education, I lost what family I had, including my mother. It seemed a lot easier to give up once that happened. But I knew I was made for something more. Despite the painful days and nights, I picked myself off the floor and fought harder than I've ever fought for something in my life. I never gave up and I never will. This achievement is dedicated to my lost family, specifically my mother: "Mom, look, I made it! I got a front row seat saved just for you."