This story of commitment to ³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ begins over 75 years ago.
Claude McLean studied mathematics at ³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ, following his dream to become a chemist.
He later earned his master’s degree in chemical engineering at the University of Illinois, where he met and married Katherine Weidman, a fellow chemist.
Dr. Katherine McLean was a pioneer in her field; working with the original rocket engineers at the dawn of the space age.
Faculty Passion
In 1952, she and Claude moved to Phoenix where Katherine taught chemistry at ³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ, while raising 3 children; Susan, John, and Ann.
Dr. McLean’s passion was teaching, and for more than 40 years at ³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ she impacted the lives of thousands of students. She was particularly gratified in helping first generation students.
A Second Generation Builds the Legacy
Today, son John and wife Barbara, along with daughter Ann and husband Dr. Albert Celoza, ³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ Liberal Arts Department faculty, honor their family legacy through two endowed scholarships supporting first generation students: the Dr. Katherine McLean Chemistry Scholarship and the Dr. Albert Celoza Excellence in International Studies Scholarship.
³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ celebrates the McLean and Celoza families – and their generous contributions and support of ³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ students – for more than 75 years.
On April 7, 2021 the McLean and Celoza families will be honored at the Maricopa Community College Foundation's Heroes of Education Virtual Event.