MOHAVE COUNTY – Mohave College congratulates Micah Ugartechea and Tina Braniger, two of six students selected to represent the College as 2026 All-Arizona Academic Team members.
All-Arizona Academic Team members in the transfer category receive a full-tuition scholarship to any public university in Arizona after graduating from Mohave College. The scholarship covers resident tuition for 10 consecutive undergraduate semesters.
MICAH UGARTECHEA
Ugartechea began his higher education journey at Mohave College because it provided a pathway to change careers and offered the support he needed as an adult learner returning to school. Since enrolling, he has found value in the College’s strong sense of community and support systems designed to help adult learners succeed.
“Mohave College gave me a second chance at professional success through an affordable, high-quality education and a strong community of support,” he said. “From financial aid guidance to dedicated faculty mentorship, Mohave helped me rebuild my confidence and realize my potential after returning to school.”
Ugartechea is pursuing an associate degree in accounting. After Mohave, he plans to transfer to Arizona State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He chose this field after working in operations and wanting to better understand the financial side of business. His ultimate career goal is to become a certified public accountant or auditor and work for an organization that values financial transparency.
For Ugartechea, the award represents more than recognition. He said it validates his journey from incarceration to academic success and reflects the resilience he has shown in pursuing his goals.
TINA BRANIGER
Braniger chose Mohave College because it offered the program she wanted close to home. She is pursuing a degree in nursing after caring for her mother at a young age, which inspired her to become a nurse.
Since attending Mohave College, she has found an affordable education that provides the flexibility to balance classes with her daily responsibilities.
“Mohave College has been the foundation of my educational success, offering supportive professors, flexible scheduling, affordable programs and career-focused pathways that align with real workforce needs and make transferring to a four-year university more attainable,” Braniger said.
Receiving the All-Arizona Academic Team Award was a meaningful moment for Braniger, as it recognized the long nights, sacrifices and hard work she has put into her education. The scholarship will help her continue her studies without added financial burden.
“Receiving the award has motivated me to keep pushing forward, stay focused and believe in my ability to succeed,” Braniger said. “The scholarship didn’t just help financially, it reminded me that I belong in higher education and that my goals are worth pursuing.”
After Mohave, she plans to continue her education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing and eventually becoming a family nurse practitioner. Her ultimate career goal is to become a registered nurse and build a career that makes a difference in people’s lives.
A total of six Mohave College students were honored as All-Arizona Academic Team members: Craig Ruckle of Kingman, Robert Gale of Kingman, Tiffany Sauer of Bullhead City, Tristen Moffett of Bullhead City, Micah Ugartechea of Lake Havasu City and Tina Braniger of Lake Havasu City. Students will be celebrated with honorees from other Arizona community colleges on April 22 in Mesa.
About Mohave College
Since 1971, Mohave College has been transforming lives by helping students earn degrees and certificates that lead to better careers and brighter futures. Most alumni stay right here in Mohave County, strengthening the local workforce, fueling economic growth, and giving back to the communities they call home. The College delivers an estimated $199 million annual economic impact to the region and supports over 3,000 jobs in industries ranging from healthcare to the arts. Alumni contribute $158 million each year in additional income to local communities, and 96% of graduates say Mohave prepared them well for their careers or further education. Whether you’re starting your journey or advancing your skills, Mohave College is here to help you own your future. Learn more at Mohave.edu/ImprovingLives.
Micah Ugartechea is a student on the Lake Havasu Campus and has been selected as a 2026 All-Arizona Academic Team member.
Tina Braniger is a student on the Lake Havasu Campus and has been selected as a 2026 All-Arizona Academic Team member.