Program will help educate the next generation of Arizona winemakers while honoring the woman whose early support helped shape the state’s modern wine industry
June 30, 2026 (Douglas, AZ) — Cochise College recently celebrated a transformative milestone for Arizona’s wine industry with the dedication of the Ann Marie Stephens Viticulture Program, made possible through a historic $6 million gift from philanthropist Ann Marie Stephens.
The June 16 dedication brought together college leadership, Arizona winemakers, industry professionals, donors and community supporters to celebrate an investment expected to have a lasting impact on Arizona agriculture and the state’s rapidly growing wine industry.
Many Arizona wine enthusiasts know Stephens for her pioneering role as the Master Cellar at AJ’s Fine Foods, where she launched the retailer’s wine program in 1986. Throughout her career, she became a champion of Arizona wines, introducing countless consumers to locally produced vintages and helping elevate the reputation of Arizona winemakers long before the industry gained national recognition.
Today, her legacy continues through the Ann Marie Stephens Viticulture Program, which will provide students with specialized education, hands-on vineyard and winery experience, and expanded career opportunities in viticulture and winemaking.
“When I was Wine Master at AJ’s Fine Foods in Scottsdale, it became my mission to place Arizona wines on the shelves and help elevate our state’s growing wine industry,” said Ann Stephens. “I am grateful to now be in a position to support Cochise College through the creation of both a viticulture program and scholarship, helping continue the growth and future of Arizona wine.”
The new program is expected to strengthen Arizona’s wine industry by preparing the next generation of vineyard managers, winemakers and industry professionals while supporting economic development throughout southeastern Arizona and the state’s wine-producing regions.
Arizona wine pioneer Sam Pillsbury of Pillsbury Wine Company credits Stephens’ early support with helping launch his own winery.
“When Ann tasted our wines and chose them for the AJ’s wine cellar, it affirmed my decision to plant a vineyard and establish a winery in Willcox,” said Sam Pillsbury. “Her belief in Arizona wines gave confidence to many of us who were working to build this industry from the ground up.”
The dedication ceremony recognized not only Stephens’ extraordinary generosity, but also her decades-long commitment to advancing Arizona wine and creating opportunities for future generations.
“We are proud to launch a program that expands opportunity and supports student success,” said Dr. James Perey, Cochise College President. “Naming the Science Building in Douglas in honor of Ann Marie Stephens is a fitting tribute to her generosity and to the lasting impact this program will have. It reflects our commitment to being student-centered, community-anchored, and future-focused.”
For more information on the Ann Marie Stephens Viticulture Program at Cochise College, visit https://www.cochise.edu/news/2026/06/cochise_college_introduces_new_viticulture_program.html.
