Cochise Community College Launches Viticulture Program with $6 Million Endowment

SIERRA VISTA – Cochise Community College has announced the launch of the Ann Marie Stephens Viticulture Program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at preparing students for careers in Arizona’s growing wine industry. The program is made possible through a generous $6 million endowment from Ann Marie Stephens, unveiled at the Arizona Wine Festival in Phoenix on January 25, 2025.

The new program will provide students with a comprehensive education in viticulture, offering hands-on experience in vineyard management, winery operations, and wine marketing. With Arizona’s wine industry expanding rapidly—particularly in Cochise County, home to the Willcox American Viticulture Area (AVA)—the program aims to fill a critical gap in workforce development.

Ann Marie Stephens’ journey into the wine industry began in the early 1990s when she played a pivotal role in introducing Arizona wines to major retail markets. Her passion for wine education and advocacy for Arizona’s vineyards led to her decision to create a lasting legacy through this endowment. With the help of Astria Wong, the fund was established to cover tuition, books, fees, and internship costs for students pursuing a career in viticulture at Cochise College.

“We are honored to carry forward Ann’s vision,” said a Cochise College spokesperson. “This program will not only train future leaders in Arizona’s wine industry but also strengthen the economic potential of our region.”

Cochise County, home to 74% of Arizona’s wine grape production, provides an ideal setting for the viticulture program. The region’s elevation, climate, and soil create optimal conditions for grape growing, making it a natural choice for aspiring vintners to gain practical experience.

Students will benefit from collaborations with local vineyards and wineries, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world winemaking. The curriculum will blend scientific study with the artistry of winemaking, covering everything from soil composition to fermentation techniques.

Arizona’s wine industry has seen significant recognition in recent years. The Willcox AVA has produced numerous award-winning wines, with recent competitions highlighting the region’s quality. At the 2025 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, 75 of Arizona’s 106 winning wines sourced their grapes from Willcox or Cochise County.

With over 1,300 acres of vineyards in the region and increasing consumer demand for Arizona wines, the need for skilled professionals in viticulture and winemaking has never been greater. The Ann Marie Stephens Viticulture Program aims to meet this demand by equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in the industry.

Recognizing that financial barriers often limit access to specialized education, the endowment will ensure that students receive financial support through scholarships. These funds will enable aspiring winemakers and vineyard managers to focus on their studies without the burden of tuition costs.

The launch of the program marks a major milestone for both Cochise College and Arizona’s wine industry. By fostering the next generation of viticulture professionals, the program will contribute to the continued success and growth of the state’s burgeoning wine sector.