Phoenix at its Finest

Arizona Top Hiking Destination

According to World Population Review, Arizona is ranked among the best states for hiking in 2024, with a score of 78 out of 100. The state is known for its diverse landscapes, from the iconic Grand Canyon to desert vistas, offering trails suitable for all skill levels. Popular hikes include the South Kaibab Trail in the Grand Canyon, Camelback Mountain, Flat Iron, and the Bright Angel Trail. Arizona’s unique combination of desert beauty and mountainous terrain provides hikers with spectacular views and a range of challenging and scenic routes to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, Arizona’s trails promise unforgettable outdoor experiences. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/best-states-for-hiking (December 2024)

Phoenix Tops for Compassion

Arizona is home to three of the 20 most caring cities in America, according to WalletHub’s analysis of 100 of the largest U.S. cities based on 38 metrics like volunteer hours, income donated to charity, and sheltered homeless populations. Scottsdale ranked #2, Gilbert #4, and Chandler #12, reflecting the state’s strong commitment to community support and generosity. These rankings highlight Arizona’s role in fostering compassion and civic engagement, underscoring its residents’ dedication to helping others during challenging times. https://wallethub.com/edu/most-caring-cities/17814 (December 2024)

Arizona is Great for Singles

Arizona cities achieved varying positions in WalletHub’s analysis of 182 U.S. cities based on dating-friendliness. Phoenix ranks at #23, performing well in dating opportunities. Chandler secured #28, benefiting from strong economics, while Tempe ranked #40 for its recreation options. Scottsdale placed #44, noted for fun and recreation, while Mesa ranked #52. The rankings were based on 35 indicators, including the proportion of single residents, online dating opportunities, and the cost of dining for two. https://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-cities-for-singles/9015 (December 2024)

Arizona Shines in Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America

Arizona had strong representation in the Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America, with 12 organizations recognized for prioritizing employee well-being. Phoenix companies ranked from #1 to #88, while Tucson ranked at a solid #27 on this list of top 100 companies across the US. OneAZ Credit Union in Phoenix ranked #1 overall, exemplifying a commitment to health. Rankings were based on the Healthiest Employers Index, which evaluates organizations across six categories: Culture and Leadership Commitment, Foundational Components, Strategic Planning, Communications and Marketing, Programming and Interventions, and Reporting and Analytics. https://www.healthiestemployers.com/winner/2024-healthiest-100-workplaces-in-america (December 2024)

Arizona State University Recognized as Fullbright HSI Leader

Arizona State University (ASU) has been named a Fulbright HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) Leader for the third consecutive year, a designation granted by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This recognition highlights ASU’s dedication to serving the Hispanic community and successfully placing faculty and students in the prestigious Fulbright program, which fosters international academic exchange. As one of 28 doctoral-granting institutions to earn the honor, ASU supports a student body where over 25% identify as Hispanic and provides extensive resources. The university also ranks among the top producers of Fulbright U.S. Scholars and Students, placing #6 for faculty and #21 for students among doctoral institutions. ASU’s efforts, aligned with its mission of inclusion and global engagement, ensure comprehensive support for applicants, with resources like workshops and mentorship for students and faculty. https://www.fulbrightprogram.org/hsi/ (November 2024)

Arizona Shines in Top 100 World’s Best Cities

Phoenix and Tucson have secured spots in the prestigious “World’s Best Cities” rankings by Resonance Consulting, highlighting their unique appeal on the global stage. Phoenix is ranked #89 globally, praised for its vibrant arts community, a growing roster of fine museums, and its enviable 300 days of sunshine annually. Meanwhile Tucson ranks as the #77 best city in the world, celebrated for its exceptional air quality (#3) and its designation as America’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy, reflecting its rich culinary heritage. Both cities elevate Arizona’s diverse cultural and environmental offerings, cementing their places among the world’s most desirable locations. https://www.worldsbestcities.com/rankings/worlds-best-cities/ (November 2024)

Arizona State University Secures Top Spot in Innovation for the 9th Year

Arizona State University (ASU) has been ranked the most innovative university in the U.S. for the 9th consecutive year by U.S. News & World Report, surpassing institutions like Stanford and MIT. This recognition reflects ASU’s commitment to its “New American University” model, which emphasizes excellence, broad access to education, and societal impact. In addition to its top innovation ranking, ASU achieved high standings across various disciplines, including a #13 rank for undergraduate teaching, senior capstone programs, and first-year experiences. This achievement underscores ASU’s leadership in education, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration to address global challenges. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges (November 2024)

Gilbert Ranked Safest City in Arizona for 2024

In WalletHub’s 2024 Safest Cities in America report, Gilbert was highlighted as Arizona’s safest city, ranking #31 nationally. Other Arizona cities in the top half of the list include Scottsdale at #39, Chandler at #46, and Peoria at #69. WalletHub’s analysis compared over 180 U.S. cities on 41 safety metrics, such as traffic fatalities, assault rates, and financial security factors like unemployment and insurance coverage. https://wallethub.com/edu/safest-cities-in-america/41926 (October 2024)

Phoenix Children’s Hospital Earns Top Pediatric Center in the Southwest

Phoenix Children’s Hospital has been ranked as the #1 pediatric hospital in Arizona and #3 in the Southwest by U.S. News & World Report in 2024, marking 14 consecutive years of high national recognition. This Arizona-based facility stands out for excellence in pediatric care, with top 50 rankings in eight medical specialties. These include gastroenterology, cardiology, and behavioral health. The hospital recently expanded its reach by opening a second facility, Arrowhead Phoenix Children’s in Glendale, to better serve families across the region. https://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/pediatric-rankings (October 2024)

Scottsdale and Gilbert Top Cities for Small Businesses

According to Coworking Cafe, Scottsdale and Gilbert Arizona rank among the top U.S. cities for small businesses, with Scottsdale taking the #1 spot nationwide. Scottsdale boasts a 38% GDP growth and a 3.5% unemployment rate, along with a high percentage of self-employed business owners (16.5%) and a well-educated population (48.2% holding bachelor’s degrees). The city also has a strong coworking infrastructure, with 12.5 spaces per 100,000 residents. Gilbert, ranked at #19, mirrors Scottsdale’s low unemployment rate and impressive GDP growth, with a high labor force participation rate of 72% and a notable business application growth rate of 13.9%. https://www.coworkingcafe.com/blog/top-cities-for-small-businesses/ (October 2024)

Arizona State University Ranked 1st in Innovation

For the 10th straight year, Arizona State University (ASU) has been ranked #1 in innovation by the U.S. News & World Report. This recognition reflects ASU’s enterprise-wide commitment to innovation across teaching, research, and operations. ASU has also earned high rankings for sustainability, international student hosting, and research impact, including major federal grants for projects in microelectronics, space exploration, and climate challenges. Additionally, ASU’s undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like business, engineering, and nursing have ranked among the top in the nation. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges (September 2024)

Arizona Ranks in Top 10 for Most Diverse States

According to Wallet Hub, Arizona ranks #10 among the most diverse states in the U.S., showcasing its expanding cultural and socioeconomic diversity. Arizona is particularly notable for its high-income diversity, ranking #4 nationwide, and significant linguistic diversity, placing #8. This diversity extends beyond race and ethnicity, encompassing differences in education, religion, and household types. https://wallethub.com/edu/most-least-diverse-states-in-america/38262 (September 2024)

Phoenix Ranked as 2nd Best City for Distribution and Warehousing

According to Commercial Search, Phoenix has emerged as the second-best U.S. city for distribution and warehousing. Thanks to significant growth in infrastructure and job creation, the metro area boasts approximately 18.9 million square feet of distribution and warehouse space currently under construction, leading all cities in pipeline activity. Over the past five years, Phoenix has expanded its distribution space stock by 44%, ranking it eighth in total inventory. Factors contributing to this success include a surge in population, which has enhanced the labor pool and attracted businesses, as well as its strategic location just six hours from key West Coast ports. Moreover, the average annual asking rent in Phoenix is notably lower than in Los Angeles, making it an appealing option for logistics companies. https://www.commercialsearch.com/blog/best-metros-for-distribution-in-us/#Methodology (September 2024)

Arizona Ranks 4th in the West for Job Seekers

According to a recent CoworkingCafe study, Arizona has secured the 4th spot among Western states for job seekers in 2024, thanks to favorable metrics such as low state income tax at 2.5%, strong job availability, and a vibrant entrepreneurial climate with over 125,000 new business applications. The state also boasts an average of 199 job openings per month and hosts 19 major company headquarters, contributing to its dynamic job market. Arizona holds a respectable 15th place nationally. https://www.coworkingcafe.com/blog/top-western-us-states-for-job-seekers/ (September 2024)

Phoenix Leads U.S. Industrial Real Estate Pipeline Amid National Slowdown

Despite a nationwide 19% drop in industrial real estate construction, Phoenix remains at the forefront, leading the country with 39.1 million square feet of industrial space under development in the first half of 2024, according to Commercial Search. Phoenix’s industrial pipeline surpasses other major markets, reflecting its strong position. Key projects include expansions in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, such as Lucid Motors’ plant in Casa Grande. While many markets are experiencing a slowdown, Phoenix’s continued growth highlights its role as a critical hub for advanced manufacturing and logistics. https://www.commercialsearch.com/blog/mid-year-industrial-development-report/ (August 2024)

Arizona State University Graduates Secure Prestigious Fulbright Awards

Fourteen Arizona State University students have been selected for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program for the 2024–25 academic year. These recipients will engage in various international projects, including teaching, research, and graduate studies in countries such as South Korea, Hungary, and Spain. ASU’s strong presence in the Fulbright program reflects its commitment to global engagement and academic excellence, with 159 students and 46 faculty members receiving Fulbright awards over the past decade. This continued success highlights the university’s dedication to fostering leadership and cross-cultural understanding. https://news.asu.edu/20240827-local-national-and-global-affairs-14-asu-students-awarded-fulbright-scholarships-202425?%20Strategic%20Communications_SFMCE&ecd42=518002422&ecd73=264474433&ecd37=Now%20daily&ecd43=8/23/2024&utm_campaign=ASU_News_News+8-23-24_6881026&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Media%20Relations%20&utm_term=ASU&utm_content=Read+more_Fulbrights (August 2024)

Scottsdale Ranks Among Top 5 U.S. Cities for Working Parents

Scottsdale, Arizona has been recognized as one of the top five cities in the U.S. for working parents, according to Coworking Cafe. Thanks to its strong support for balancing family responsibilities with career demands, the city excels with a high percentage of remote workers, low childcare costs, and ample public-school availability. Scottsdale ranks #2 among Western U.S. cities and #4 nationally for its family-friendly environment. Notably, only 12% of household median income is spent on childcare, and the city offers 128 green acres per 1,000 residents, making it a prime location for parents seeking a supportive and sustainable work-life balance. https://www.coworkingcafe.com/blog/best-cities-for-working-parents/ (August 2024)

Arizona Cities Rank Among Top 100 Fittest in the U.S.

Seven Arizona cities have earned spots in the top 100 fittest cities in the U.S. according to the ACSM American Fitness Index. Scottsdale, Glendale, Mesa, Chandler, Phoenix, Gilbert, and Tucson are all recognized for their efforts to promote physical health and wellness. These cities, ranked between #56 and #86, showcase Arizona’s broader commitment to fostering active lifestyles through community initiatives and infrastructure that support exercise and healthy living. https://www.acsm.org/about/community-impact-programs/american-fitness-index (August 2024)

Chandler Among Fortune’s 50 Best Places to Live for Families

Chandler has been named one of Fortune’s 50 Best Places to Live for Families in 2024, ranking #37 and being the only city in Arizona to make the list. Fortune’s annual ranking highlights cities that best support multigenerational families, offering great schools, top-rated hospitals, affordable housing, resources for older adults, and a strong sense of community. Fortune collaborated with key data partners and evaluated over 2,000 cities to determine the best places for families to thrive. https://fortune.com/well/ranking/best-places-families/2024/ (July 2024)

Mesa and Phoenix Lead U.S. Cities in Economic Growth

Mesa, Phoenix, and Surprise have been recognized as top cities for economic growth in the U.S., with Mesa and Phoenix ranking #1 and #3 among large cities, respectively, and Surprise ranking #5 among small cities, according to a CoworkingCafe analysis. The study evaluated factors such as population growth, GDP, employment rates, and infrastructure investments. Mesa’s economic growth has been driven by a 38% increase in GDP and a 34% rise in infrastructure from 2018 to 2022, aided by strategic initiatives attracting tech companies and enhancing public amenities. Phoenix also showed significant progress with a 54% rise in business applications and a 2% employment rate increase. Both cities, along with Surprise, demonstrated strong economic performance, contributing to the overall economic dynamism of the region. Additionally, Gilbert and Chandler were noted as top mid-sized cities for economic growth, further highlighting Arizona’s economic vitality. https://www.coworkingcafe.com/blog/top-cities-for-economic-growth/#methodology (July 2024)

Three Arizona Hospitals Rank Best in Regional Hospitals in the U.S.

Three Arizona hospitals,Banner-University Medical Center Tucson, TMC Healthcare-Tucson, and Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix, were recognized by the U.S. News & World Report among the 53 Best Regional Hospitals for Equitable Access. This designation highlights hospitals providing high-quality care to underserved communities. Announced at the “The State of Equity in America” event, the recognition underscores the importance of equitable healthcare. Criteria for selection included serving socioeconomically deprived areas, racial/ethnic minorities, and Medicaid patients. https://www.usnews.com/preview/usnews-share-view?previewId=0000018f-e92f-d6dd-a3cf-f9ef26b30000 (July 2024)

Arizona Tops for Staycations

With the high cost of travel, many Americans are opting for staycations. WalletHub ranks Tucson and Scottsdale Arizona among the top 15 cities for a budget-friendly and enjoyable local retreat. Tucson is positioned at #10 and Scottsdale is at #12. Both offer a variety of recreational activities, dining options, and relaxation spots that make them ideal for staycations. These cities provide an array of parks, museums, and affordable restaurants, allowing residents to enjoy their time off without the added expense of long-distance travel and accommodations. https://wallethub.com/edu/best-cities-for-staycations/4341 (June 2024)

Three Arizona Hospitals Honored for Excellence in Equitable Healthcare Access

Three Arizona hospitals have been recognized among the Best Regional Hospitals for Equitable Access by U.S. News & World Report. Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix, Banner-University Medical Center Tucson, and TMC Healthcare-Tucson were highlighted for their excellence in providing care to historically underserved communities. This recognition was part of an event in Washington, D.C., focused on equity in healthcare. The U.S. News analysis identified hospitals that excel in serving socioeconomically disadvantaged and minority populations, with Arizona being one of the few states to have three hospitals on the list. This highlights Arizona’s commitment to improving healthcare access and quality for vulnerable populations. https://www.usnews.com/preview/usnews-share-view?previewId=0000018f-e92f-d6dd-a3cf-f9ef26b30000 (June 2024)

Arizona Wins Fourth Consecutive Gold Shovel Award

Arizona has been awarded its fourth consecutive Gold Shovel by Area Development magazine, recognizing the state’s achievements in job creation, economic growth, and innovation. This prestigious award highlights significant investments and projects that will add over 7,000 jobs and nearly $8 billion in capital. Key projects include LG Energy Solution’s $5.5 billion battery manufacturing facility in Queen Creek and Amkor Technology’s $2 billion semiconductor packaging facility in Peoria. These developments are part of Arizona’s ongoing success in attracting high-tech industries and promoting economic development. The state has now received a total of six Gold Shovels and six Silver Shovels since 2007, reflecting its consistent growth and investment in infrastructure and technology. https://ktar.com/story/5577876/arizona-wins-4th-consecutive-gold-shovel-award-for-economic-development/ (June 2024)

Phoenix Leads U.S. in Industrial Development

Over the past decade, Phoenix has emerged as a leading hub for industrial development in the U.S., with six industrial submarkets more than doubling in size and another seven growing by 50-100%. According to CommercialSearch, Phoenix currently has the largest active industrial pipeline in the nation. West Phoenix, in particular, stands out with over 7.8 million square feet under construction, making up 5.6% of its existing inventory. Between 2014 and 2023, West Phoenix expanded its industrial space by 53%, adding 49 million square feet, and now ranks fourth among the top 100 U.S. submarkets with 141 million square feet of industrial space. Notably, 63.3% of West Phoenix’s industrial space is Class A, totaling 89.3 million square feet, the third-largest Class A inventory among the top 100 submarkets. https://www.commercialsearch.com/blog/fastest-growing-industrial-submarkets/ (June 2024)

Arizona State University Climbs QS Rankings

Arizona State University (ASU) has been recognized for its effective use of data in enhancing education and research, leading to a rise in its QS World University Rankings. For 2025, ASU is ranked 38th in the U.S., up from 40th in 2024, and 200th globally out of 1,503 institutions. It is the top university in Arizona and ranks 17th among U.S. public universities. The QS rankings, which assess academic reputation, citations, and international research networks, highlight ASU’s strengths in international research and sustainability. https://www.topuniversities.com/qs-world-university-rankings (June 2024)

Arizona’s Bioscience Boom

Inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic, former MIT engineer Oleg Gusyatin co-founded Macula Vision Systems in 2021 to develop an AI-assisted microscope for automating clinical lab analysis. This innovation won accolades from the Arizona Commerce Authority and the Flinn Foundation. Arizona’s bioscience sector, bolstered by leading health care and educational institutions, contributes significantly to the state economy, with a $71.2 billion gross state product and nearly 714,000 jobs. Recent advancements include new medical schools and Mayo Clinic’s Discovery Oasis project. The sector’s growth is driven by long-term strategic efforts like the Flinn Foundation’s Bioscience Roadmap. Gusyatin credits the Arizona Commerce Authority for providing crucial support and feedback, highlighting Arizona’s nurturing environment for bioscience innovation. https://www.azcommerce.com/industries/bioscience-health-care (May 2024)

ASU Ranked in Top 1% of Global Universities

Arizona State University (ASU) has been ranked in the top 1% of nearly 21,000 universities worldwide in the 2024 Global 2000 list by the Center for World University Rankings. ASU placed #194 globally and #67 in the U.S., with strong rankings in research (#150), faculty (#266), and education (#451). It also ranked in the top 5% for employability. The rankings, based on objective data, highlight ASU’s innovative faculty and research excellence. Additionally, ASU was ranked #34 globally and #13 in the U.S. for employable graduates by the Global Employability University Ranking and Survey. https://cwur.org/2024.php (May 2024)

Record-Breaking Tourism Season at Phoenix Sky Harbor

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport experienced its busiest tourism season ever, according to the City of Phoenix, from January to April, significantly boosted by the NCAA Men’s Final Four in Glendale. April saw a record 4.5 million passengers, a 6.2% increase from the previous year, following a record-breaking March with over 5 million passengers. The airport surpassed its 2019 total passenger count in 2023, continuing to grow this year. Major carriers and international travel saw substantial increases, with new routes to Frankfurt, Paris, Mexico, and Canada. Anticipating further growth, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego has initiated plans for a new terminal to accommodate future demand. https://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2024/05/29/phoenix-sky-harbor-busy-tourism-season.html?utm_source=sy&utm_medum=ptr&utm_campaign=knxv+[bizjournals.com] (May 2024)

Chandler, AZ: Recognized as the Most Innovative City in Arizona

Chandler, AZ has been identified as the most innovative city in Arizona and #17 overall, according to a study by OnDeck, which analyzed patent data from the U.S. Patent Office. In 2023, Chandler filed 17 patents per 10,000 residents, highlighting its strong culture of innovation and technological advancement. This recognition places Chandler at the forefront of Arizona’s innovation landscape, demonstrating the city’s commitment to fostering inventive activities and supporting local inventors. https://www.ondeck.com/resources/most-patents-by-company (May 2024)

Arizona State University Makes History with First NCAA Championship Win

The Arizona State University men’s swim and dive team clinched their first NCAA championship title in program history. During the four-day competition in Indianapolis, they set nine school records and three NCAA records. Notably, the 400 freestyle relay team, composed of Léon Marchand, Jack Dolan, Patrick Sammon, and Jonny Kulow, secured both a new NCAA record and the team win. Marchand, a standout performer, broke several records, including the 500 freestyle and the 200 breaststroke. The final team standings placed ASU first with 523.5 points. Additionally, 14 Sun Devils received All-American honors. The team’s victory coincides with the announcement of Herbie Behm as the new head coach. This achievement adds to a month of success for Sun Devil Athletics, with men’s wrestling also celebrating at the NCAA championships. https://news.asu.edu/20240401-sun-devil-community-asu-mens-swim-and-dive-wins-first-ncaa-title-team-history?utm_campaign=ASU_News_News+4-3-24_6848077&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Media%20Relations%20&%20Strategic%20Communications_SFMCE&utm_term=ASU&utm_content=Swim+hed&ecd42=518002422&ecd73=409455448&ecd37=Now%20daily&ecd43=4/3/2024 (April 2024)

Phoenix Tops Charts in 2024 U.S. News & World Report High School Rankings

Arizona shines in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings for public high schools, with BASIS-Peoria claiming the top spot nationally. Scottsdale followed closely at #17 and #2 in Arizona altogether. Jake Logan, from the Arizona Charter Schools Association, praised Arizona’s exceptional educators and school leaders for this achievement. BASIS charter network led with 10 schools in the Top 100, while public charter schools dominated Arizona’s Top 50 list. The rankings consider various factors, such as graduation rates, curriculum, test scores, and college readiness. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/rankings-overview (April 2024)

Phoenix Emerges as Second-Largest Data Center Market in the U.S.

The Metro Phoenix area has solidified its position as the second-largest data center market in the United States, driven by factors such as affordable power, available land for development, and substantial completed leases for new capacity. JLL’s report anticipates a continued trend of pre-leasing in Phoenix and other primary data center markets, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning for users and operators. With Phoenix’s data center inventory expanding rapidly, the region remains competitive due to relatively low power costs compared to other major markets. The growing demand for power-intensive applications like AI and large language models underscores the significance of robust data center infrastructure. As capital continues to flow into the sector, collaboration with experienced facilities and property management experts is essential to navigate challenges such as labor shortages and ensure optimal operations amidst rapid expansion. https://www.us.jll.com/en/trends-and-insights/research/na-data-center-report?utm_source=public-relations&utm_medium=ol&utm_campaign=am-us-industries-data-centers-outlook&utm_content=byline (March 2024)

Arizona Shines in Senior Living

Seniorly’s 2024 Best of Senior Living Awards highlights Arizona’s notable presence, ranking #5 in the nation with 15 award-winning senior living facilities. Acoya Troon in Scottsdale, AZ, particularly stands out as the sixth-best facility nationwide. The awards, based on 500,000 online reviews across 60,000 facilities, consider factors like cleanliness, dining services, staff ratings, value, care services, and resident satisfaction. Facilities must rank in the top two percent of consumer sentiment ratings, maintain a clean licensing record, and avoid negative media coverage to qualify. Arizona’s recognition underscores its commitment to providing high-quality senior living options amidst nationwide acclaim. https://web.seniorly.com/company/best-of-senior-living-awards-2024 (March 2024)

Scottsdale Ranks High for Work/Life Balance and Mental Health

CoworkingCafe has recently released its updated ranking of the best U.S. cities for work/life balance and mental health in 2024, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing personal well-being alongside professional pursuits. Factors such as work hours, accessibility to leisure activities and healthcare, availability of green spaces, air quality, income levels, buying power, commute times, and the prevalence of remote work were taken into account. Scottsdale, ranked at #20, maintained its presence in the top 20 for the second consecutive year. Highlights for Scottsdale include a notable increase in telecommuting, with 26% of the workforce working remotely, ranking 2nd in the nation. The city also boasts significant metrics in mental health, such as ample green spaces with 128.4 acres per 1,000 residents (ranking #3) and a high health insurance coverage of 94.7% (ranking #10). The median income in Scottsdale stands at $104,197 per year, the ninth highest nationally. https://www.coworkingcafe.com/blog/best-cities-for-work-life-balance/ (March 2024)

Arizona State University Excels in Online Education

Arizona State University (ASU) has achieved significant recognition in online education, with its online bachelor’s programs ranked #4 by U.S. News & World Report, surpassing several prestigious institutions. ASU also secured the #3 spot nationally for its online bachelor’s in business. ASU Online, designed to cater to the needs of military-affiliated students, enrolled nearly 12,000 such students in 2023. Notably, ASU ranked in the top 10 for online programs for veterans across several categories, including bachelor’s programs and master’s programs in various fields. ASU’s commitment to online education is evident through its expansion, offering access to more than 300-degree programs regardless of students’ locations. The university’s recognition among the best online programs nationwide reflects its dedication to educational excellence and student success. https://news.asu.edu/20240207-university-news-asu-online-programs-ranked-among-best-nation?utm_campaign=ASU_News_News+2-7-24_6829916&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Media%20Relations%20&%20Strategic%20Communications_SFMCE&utm_term=ASU&utm_content=Read+more_Online&ecd42=518002422&ecd73=409455448&ecd37=Now%20daily&ecd43=2/7/2024 (February 2024)

Scottsdale’s Strong Work Ethic Propels It to Top 10

Scottsdale, Arizona secured the 8th position among the top 20 cities analyzed by CoworkingCafe, emphasizing its strong work ethic and economic vitality. With nearly 71 total points, Scottsdale stood out with the second-best efficiency score nationwide, boasting over 26% of residents working from home and an average commute time of just over 21 minutes. The city ranked 5th in the work category, with an average work week close to 41 hours, placing third among top performers nationally. Notably, Scottsdale’s young workforce significantly contributes to its economic strength, with nearly 62% actively engaged in the local economy among the 16 to 24 age group. https://azbigmedia.com/business/this-is-why-scottsdale-ranks-as-no-8-hardest-working-u-s-city/ (February 2024)

Arizona State University Graduates Highly Employable

Arizona State University (ASU) has received high praise for the employability of its graduates, according to the Global Employability University Ranking & Survey (GEURS). ASU holds the 34th spot internationally and ranks 13th among U.S. institutions for employable graduates, placing ahead of esteemed universities like Johns Hopkins and the University of Chicago. ASU is particularly notable for its strong ties to major employers such as Amazon, Intel, and Deloitte. Jake Brown from PepsiCo highlighted ASU’s robust supply chain degree program as a key source of talented hires for the company. ASU’s impressive standing in the GEURS ranking underscores its commitment to excellence and accessibility in higher education. https://www.employability-ranking.com/2024-ranking (February 2024)

Arizona Shines in Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat

Yelp’s 11th annual Top 100 Places to Eat in 2024 has revealed Arizona’s culinary prowess with restaurants earning high spots on the list, including the prestigious #1 position with Tumerico in Tucson. The other notable restaurants are, De Babel at #14 in Scottsdale, Worth Takeaway at #36 in Mesa, Buendia Breakfast & Lunch Cafe at #39 in Tucson, Baja Cafe at #50 in Tucson, and Cocina Madrigal at #52 in Phoenix. Each restaurant offers a unique dining experience, from upscale to casual, showcasing the diverse culinary landscape of the state. https://top100.yelp.com/ (February 2024)

Glendale, Arizona Tops the Nation as No. 1 City for Remote Work Growth in 2023

Glendale, Arizona, emerges as the top city for remote work opportunities in the U.S., experiencing a remarkable 37.5% increase in work-from-home jobs since 2021, according to a study by LLC.org. The city added 6,067 new remote positions, outperforming all other cities nationwide with a 7.6% higher growth in remote jobs. This surge in remote work could be attributed to Glendale’s thriving sectors like technology, biotech, research, and financial analytics. In contrast to the overall national trend, Glendale stands out as a hub where remote work is not only prevalent but on the rise. https://www.llc.org/work-from-home-decline/#anchor4 (January 2024)

Arizona Shines: Scottsdale Leads Top Cities for Jobs in 2024

Arizona’s prominence in the job market has Scottsdale securing the top spot among the best cities for jobs in 2024, boasting the nation’s highest job growth of nearly 12% according to WalletHub. The city excels in internship opportunities and offers both quantity and quality in employment, with the 5th highest median annual income adjusted for the cost of living. Arizona’s cities, including Tempe (13th) and Phoenix (37th), also make significant contributions to the overall strong job market, reflecting the state’s robust employment landscape. https://wallethub.com/edu/best-cities-for-jobs/2173 (January 2024)

Arizona State University Secures Ninth Consecutive Year as U.S. Innovation Leader

Arizona State University (ASU) has secured the top spot in innovation among American universities for the 9th consecutive year, according to the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 “Best Colleges” rankings. ASU’s continuous leadership in innovation reflects its commitment to excellence, broad access to quality education, and societal impact as a New American University. The university has consistently outranked prestigious institutions like MIT and Stanford in various categories, including global impact, research expenditures, journalism, engineering technology enrollment, and business online bachelor’s programs. https://news.asu.edu/20230917-university-news-asu-no-1-innovation-nine-years-us-news-world-report?utm_campaign=ASU_News_News+1-3-24_6820757&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Media%20Relations%20&%20Strategic%20Communications_SFMCE&utm_term=ASU&utm_content=Innovation+hed&ecd42=518002422&ecd73=409455448&ecd37=Now%20daily&ecd43=1/3/2024 (January 2024)