University of Phoenix participated as the presenting partner in the Arizona Diamondbacks’ 28th annual Winter Classic event, which took place on December 9. The university provided support through both sponsorship and employee volunteers, with about 200 staff members from its Phoenix office joining D-backs players, coaches, and staff to help run the event.
During the Winter Classic, University of Phoenix volunteers distributed backpacks containing gifts such as new shoes, an Arizona D-backs sweatshirt, and books to more than 450 children. The event aims to serve schoolchildren from low-income and at-risk schools in Arizona by offering them a day of celebration and activities.
John Woods, Ph.D., provost and chief academic officer at University of Phoenix, said: “The Diamondbacks’ Winter Classic remains one of my favorite events because it shows what’s possible when organizations come together for the common good. Collaborating with the team creates a special day for hundreds of kids from across the valley, giving them time on the field, fun activities and gifts to take home. Our employees look forward to volunteering every year, and seeing the joy on the children’s faces is what makes this tradition so meaningful.”
The event began over two decades ago when Hall of Fame pitcher Randy Johnson initiated efforts to provide new shoes for children in need. Since then, it has expanded to include baseball games, music, crafts, agility stations, a visit from Baxter the D-backs mascot, photos with Santa Claus, a shoe station, a University of Phoenix Reading Corner and STEM activity station.
Derrick Hall, President and CEO & General Partner of the Arizona Diamondbacks said: “The Winter Classic is a tradition we look forward to each December, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of University of Phoenix. Their commitment and the enthusiasm of their employees help us create a day filled with holiday magic and lasting memories for hundreds of children across the Valley.”
Lisa Soldano—a Student Records Evaluator who has worked at University of Phoenix for 17 years—served as one of this year’s volunteer leaders at Winter Classic. She commented: “The students had so much fun, and it was great to see their little faces light up as we got to each station. This is truly an amazing experience every year I volunteer. In speaking with the kids I found a couple who said they had been before; this year was the best yet. This has always been my favorite volunteer opportunity the University offers.”
