Avila University Arizona (AUA) celebrated its official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Campus Inauguration on Oct. 8, bringing together university leadership, city officials, business leaders, community partners, students, faculty and staff to recognize an important milestone in the institution’s continued growth.
Since welcoming its first students locally in 2025, AUA has grown to serve more than 300 students, extending Avila University’s more than 100-year educational tradition to Goodyear, Ariz., and the surrounding West Valley community.
The celebration welcomed Goodyear Mayor Joe Pizzillo, President of Avila University Dr. Todd Pfannestiel and members of the university’s leadership team. Representatives from Global University Systems (GUS) North America also joined the celebration, alongside representatives from the City of Goodyear, the West Valley Regional Chamber and local business and community organizations.
The ceremony featured remarks from university leadership, a student representative and Mayor Pizzillo, followed by a blessing delivered by Fr. Bryan Buenger, V.F. The official ribbon cutting was led by the West Valley Regional Chamber, with a special recognition and plaque presentation honoring Mayor Pizzillo and George Getz.
Supporting education and workforce development
Located in Goodyear, AUA offers career-focused graduate education designed to equip students with relevant knowledge, leadership capabilities and practical skills for today’s evolving workforce.
Its academic offerings include STEM-designated MBA programs in Healthcare Management and Project Management, alongside Master of Science programs in Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics and Data Science. The university is also expanding its academic portfolio with a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity.
Through its academic programs, student support services and growing connections with local organizations, AUA aims to contribute to the region’s educational and workforce development needs.
More than 100 Years of Avila tradition
Founded in 1916, Avila University has a longstanding tradition of providing student-centered education. Its Arizona campus builds on this legacy while creating new opportunities for students seeking career-focused education in a growing metropolitan region.
The Oct. 8 celebration recognized both the progress AUA has achieved since beginning local operations and its long-term commitment to strengthening relationships with the Goodyear community, local employers and regional partners.
Following the ribbon cutting, guests attended a reception and campus tours, providing opportunities to connect with university representatives and learn more about AUA’s academic programs and student experience.
With more than 300 students already part of its academic community, AUA continues to focus on expanding educational access, supporting student success and contributing to the future of Goodyear and Arizona’s West Valley.
For more information, visit arizona.avila.edu
