PHX Reporter

Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) has welcomed three new members to its leadership team, each bringing unique expertise and a commitment to the college's mission.

After serving as interim college president since August 2023, Dr. Jana Schwartz has been appointed as PVCC’s seventh President. With more than 20 years of higher education experience, Dr. Schwartz is dedicated to the community college mission and student success. In her role as president, she aims to foster an environment conducive to innovation, learning, and growth for faculty, staff, and students.

Further strengthening PVCC’s mission, Dr. Edmond (Eddie) Lamperez has joined as the Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Dr. Anne Suzuki will continue as Vice President of Student Affairs after serving in an interim position.

"We are thrilled to have the exceptional talent of Dr. Schwartz, Dr. Lamperez, and Dr. Suzuki at PVCC," said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Chancellor of the Maricopa County Community College District. "They’ve demonstrated remarkable expertise and the leadership qualities needed to build on the success of the college."

Dr. Jana Schwartz – President

Since joining PVCC in 2019 as vice president for student affairs and serving as interim president, Dr. Jana Schwartz has focused on creating equitable spaces for academic and personal student growth. Her career includes roles such as dean of pathways and student success at Front Range Community College and director of the Center for Human Enrichment at the University of Northern Colorado.

Dr. Schwartz holds a Ph.D. in higher education and student affairs leadership from the University of Northern Colorado, a master’s degree in student development from the University of Iowa, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Central College in Iowa.

“Education should connect with the whole person,” said Dr. Schwartz. “I am excited to lead PVCC in creating an environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.”

Dr. Edmond (Eddie) Lamperez – Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs

With a background in higher education and government, Dr. Eddie Lamperez joins PVCC with seven years in academic administration specializing in assessment, accreditation, budgeting, program development, and strategic planning.

Dr. Lamperez holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in political science along with a master’s degree in urban and regional planning from the University of New Orleans; he earned his doctorate in educational leadership and policy from Northern Arizona University.

“I believe in the transformative power of community colleges,” stated Dr. Lamperez.

Dr. Anne Suzuki – Vice President of Student Affairs

With over 23 years in higher education focusing on student retention and success programs at both two-year and four-year institutions, Dr. Anne Suzuki continues her role as vice president of student affairs.

Dr. Suzuki holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and East Asian studies from the University of Arizona; a master’s degree in international multicultural education from the University of San Francisco; she earned her doctorate in leadership innovation from Arizona State University.

“Higher education should be a place where new ideas are encouraged,” says Dr. Suzuki.