ABOUT US
The EVIT Education Foundation has been the backbone of support for students at EVIT
The EVIT Foundation is dedicated to removing financial barriers for students pursuing career and technical education at the East Valley Institute of Technology.
As the cost of education rises and more students seek hands-on training for high-demand careers, the need for support continues to grow. The EVIT Foundation steps in to ensure that students from more than 100 East Valley high schools have access to the training and opportunities they need to succeed—regardless of their financial circumstances.
We provide need-based assistance that helps students stay enrolled, graduate on time, and confidently enter the workforce with real-world skills.
Dear Friends and Supporters,
As I reflect on our journey, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the unwavering support the East Valley Institute of Technology Educational Foundation has received over the past two decades. Our mission is simple yet profound: to secure and distribute contributions that promote excellence in vocational-technical education and enhance the opportunities available to the remarkable students at EVIT.
Our vision is to empower every EVIT student with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in the workforce and beyond. We strive to create a community where vocational-technical education is not only valued but celebrated, leading to a brighter future for our students and society as a whole.
Through the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations, we have been able to cover program fees and essential supplies, ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed. Our annual fundraising events and continuous community support have been instrumental in maintaining and expanding our efforts.
The impact of our Foundation is inevitable. Just as the word “inevitable” means certain to happen, our support ensures that EVIT students receive the necessary resources and opportunities.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Your support is changing lives and building a community where every student can thrive and succeed.
Larry Christiansen - Board Chair
EVIT Education Foundation
Serving the EVIT Foundation has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career. From my time on the Board beginning in 2017 to becoming Executive Director in 2023, I’ve seen firsthand how access to scholarships and resources can change the trajectory of a student’s life.
Over the past year, we’ve expanded our efforts to ensure every student facing financial hardship has a chance to succeed. Thanks to a strong partnership with EVIT’s administration, we’ve streamlined the scholarship process and increased our reach—removing barriers so more students can stay enrolled, complete their training, and enter the workforce with confidence.
None of this would be possible without the expertise and commitment of our Board members, the generosity of our donors, and the trust of our community. Together, we’re opening doors for EVIT students and creating brighter futures across the East Valley.
Thank you for being a part of this mission. Your support is making a real and lasting impact.
Denny Brown - Executive Director
EVIT Education Foundation
Board Of Directors
The EVIT Foundation is a powerhouse of passion and dedication, working tirelessly to make a difference in students’ lives. Comprising community leaders, industry experts, and education advocates, the EVIT Foundation board’s guidance and dedication drive our mission forward, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Larry Christiansen
Board Chair
Denny Brown
Executive Director
Roc Arnett
Vice Chair
Ashley Hatley
Secretary
Liz Paulus
Treasurer
Raoul Zubia
Chief Development Officer
Donna Kosiek
Executive Administrator
Thomas Blanck
Director
Valerie Cimarossa
Director
Netoya Evans
Director
Rex Ginder
Director
Aaron Huber
Director
Thom Maher
Director
Art Piccinati
Director
David Richins
Director
Amy Violette
Director
Joe Zavislak
Director
AT EVIT, CAREER DREAMS COME TO LIFE!
EVIT provides hands-on training for high school students and adults, equipping them with real-world skills and industry-standard certifications.