Cochise Newsroom

At Cochise College, student success often begins with a conversation after class, an advising appointment or encouragement that helps someone keep going. This year, two staff members whose work reflects that spirit have earned national recognition for their service to students, colleagues, Cochise College and the communities they serve. 

 

Cochise College has announced its 2026 National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award winners: Mary King-Power, Ed.D., English instructor, and Tonya Randolph, B.S., M.S., academic/career advisor outreach. 

 

The NISOD Excellence Awards recognize community college employees who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to teaching, learning, leadership and student support. Dr. King-Power and Randolph were selected by their peers for their service to students, their departments, the college and the broader community. 

 

Dr. King-Power has been an instructor at Cochise College since 2006, bringing nearly two decades of dedication to the classroom. A U.S. Army veteran who speaks Spanish, she holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary English education from Kentucky State University, a master’s degree in English from Morehead State University and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Liberty University. 

 

Before joining the college, King-Power taught high school English for five years. Today, she continues to help students strengthen their writing, communication and confidence while also serving as co-advisor for Phi Theta Kappa on the Douglas Campus. 

 

For King-Power, meaningful education grows through connection. Her words of wisdom are “Interact with students in and out of the classroom,” King-Power said. “Support the athletic teams. Participate in the student activities and housing events. Chat with them while you munch on free popcorn. Academics are important, but real and lasting connections are made after the lectures end and the books close.” 

 

Randolph has served Cochise College students for nearly 16 years in the Advising and Career Technical Education Program Services. Her work helps students understand their options, set goals and take the next step toward certificates, degrees, transfer opportunities and careers. 

 

Before working at the college, Randolph worked at the University of Arizona Dairy, taught middle school math and high school agriculture, math and science, and served as an Arizona State Parks ranger for nearly a decade. She earned both her bachelor’s degree in agricultural education and her master’s degree in agriculture from the University of Arizona. 

 

Her career path gives her a deep understanding of the many directions a student’s journey can take. It also shapes the advice she shares with students. “Life is short; make time for what brings you joy,” Randolph said. “Set priorities and work steadily toward your goals. Perfection isn’t possible, so give your best and celebrate the effort. Even in difficult moments, every experience can help you move forward into something better in the future.” 

 

Outside of work, Randolph has spent more than 40 years breeding and showing registered dairy goats. She also enjoys riding horses, hiking and spending time outdoors with her family. 

 

Together, Dr. King-Power and Randolph embody Cochise College’s mission: providing educational opportunities that support meaningful careers and lifelong learning.  

 

As 2026 NISOD Excellence Award recipients, Dr. King-Power and Randolph will be honored at NISOD’s annual conference in Texas in May. They will each receive an Excellence Awards Medallion and certificate. 

 

Their recognition highlights the impact college employees have every day, often in moments that go unnoticed but can change a student’s life.