The Maricopa County Community College District governing board voted Tuesday night to appoint Dr. Steven R. Gonzales as MCCCD’s permanent chancellor.

Gonzales has led the system in an interim capacity since Jan. 25, 2020, when he was appointed by the board after the departure of Dr. Maria Harper-Marinick.

“For nearly three years, Dr. Gonzales has served as interim chancellor of MCCCD with great leadership, honor and innovative thinking,” Marie Sullivan, MCCCD governing board president, said.

“Despite unprecedented difficulties dealing with a global pandemic that made its way through communities and educational institutions, Dr. Gonzales’ leadership helped launch several key initiatives while still providing the most cost-effective higher education in the state of Arizona.”

Gonzalez said he is “incredibly humbled and truly honored to be appointed to this position.”

“I look forward to the important work ahead and collaboration with students, faculty, staff and community partners as I lead the Maricopa Community Colleges into a new era.”

In May 2021, MCCCD’s governing board unanimously approved a two-year contract extension, allowing Gonzales to continue leading the system as interim chancellor.

Gov. Doug Ducey and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego applauded the permanent appointment.

"Arizona will continue to benefit from Maricopa’s workforce development training, two-year degree programs and now four-year degree programs, helping to propel college students from classrooms into fulfilling careers,” Ducey said.

“I am overjoyed to hear the Maricopa County Community College District board's decision to install Steven Gonzales as its permanent Chancellor," Gallego said.

"Chancellor Gonzales has been a strong partner to the city of Phoenix, particularly in our efforts to ensure workers have the best skills to meet the demands of local employers. Our region is better because of his leadership, and I look forward to working together to bring more high-wage jobs to Phoenix."