Staff Reports | Community Updates
Maricopa Community Colleges is remembering former Chancellor Dr. Paul Elsner, whose 22-year tenure helped shape the college system and expand access to higher education throughout the Valley. Dr. Elsner died Aug. 14, 2026, at age 92.
Dr. Elsner served as the district’s second chancellor from 1977 to 1999, a period marked by significant growth and expansion.
When he arrived, Maricopa Community Colleges consisted of five colleges. By the time he retired, the system had grown to 10 colleges, increasing access to higher education across the region, according to a press release.
During his tenure, Maricopa Community Colleges received national recognition for leadership and innovation. In 1990, the Association of Community College Trustees recognized the district for innovative leadership, and in 1991, U.S. News & World Report named Maricopa one of the nation’s top college systems. Dr. Elsner also received national honors, including the Anderson Medal from the Business-Higher Education Forum and a Leadership Award from the American Association of Community Colleges.
“Dr. Elsner was an extraordinary leader and a tremendous influence on my own career. I originally came to Maricopa because I wanted the opportunity to work for him, and it was truly a privilege,” said Dr. Linda Thor, president of the Maricopa Community Colleges Governing Board. “He helped build Maricopa into the nationally recognized system it is today, and his influence on community college education goes far beyond Arizona.”
Dr. Elsner advocated for ensuring community colleges remained responsive to the needs of the communities they served. Throughout his tenure, he also supported innovation, the arts and new approaches to serving students across the district.
In addition to his work at Maricopa, Dr. Elsner shared his expertise on community colleges internationally and served in leadership roles, including president of the League for Innovation in the Community College. After retiring as chancellor, he remained active in higher education through writing, consulting and mentoring educational leaders.
“Dr. Elsner leaves a legacy. The opportunities our students have today and the reputation Maricopa has built all reflect the foundation he helped create,” said Dr. Steven Bloomberg, chancellor of Maricopa Community Colleges. “I am grateful for his leadership and honored to help carry that legacy forward.”
Maricopa Community Colleges extended condolences to Dr. Elsner’s family, friends, colleagues and the many students whose lives were influenced by his service. His contributions to higher education continue to have an impact on Arizona communities and future generations.
