The Central Arizona College Foundation is accepting applications for several scholarships that can help San Tan Valley area students pay for their education, with a deadline of Thursday, Aug. 13.

The scholarships are open to students at Central Arizona College, which serves Pinal County and operates campuses across the area. Three are highlighted in the current round: two created in memory of a longtime CAC employee, and one aimed at students headed for medical careers.

The McQueen Scholarships

The James Whitson McQueen Information Technology Scholarship and the James Whitson McQueen Nursing Scholarship were created by Carolyn Whitson in memory of her son, who worked at the college from November 2006 to June 2021.

The IT scholarship supports students working toward an information technology degree, and the nursing scholarship is open to CAC nursing students. Both ask the same of applicants: a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or higher, and a video showing the student's work ethic, their passion for the field, and how they plan to use the degree after graduation. Applicants must also fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, the form colleges use to measure financial need. Each scholarship can award up to $1,500 per semester.

The Joyce Amburgey Memorial Scholarship

The Joyce Amburgey Memorial Scholarship was created by her family to help more students afford college. It is open to Pinal County residents or graduates of a Pinal County high school who plan to work in the medical field — a path that puts it within reach of many San Tan Valley students. Preference goes to first-generation college students and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The award can be up to $1,000 in each of the fall and spring semesters.

How to Apply

Applications are due Thursday, Aug. 13. Students who want more information can contact Craig Kurtz, executive director of institutional development, at 520-494-5215 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..