NW Valley Times

Steve and Jamie Kozimor recently revisited the Grand Canyon University (GCU) campus, reflecting on their journey that began there in 1976. The couple met as students at a bench outside what was then the Fleming Library. "We met in 1976 on that bench outside the Fleming Library, what today is the Lope Shop (and adjacent Global Credit Union and its ATM), which is mind-blowing to me," Steve said.

Jamie recalled their first conversation: "He was sitting on the bench eating a bag of Doritos and an orange drink. I said, ‘Well, that looks like a healthy breakfast.’" Their meeting led to marriage and a family legacy at GCU.

Their son, Tyler Kozimor, followed in their footsteps by becoming an educator. He earned his master’s degree from GCU in 2020 and became senior academic program specialist in the College of Education in 2023. His wife, Dr. Alicia Kozimor, also completed her master’s degree in 2017 and doctorate in 2020 at GCU before becoming faculty chair of the college in 2021.

Reflecting on this legacy, Steve noted: “It is exciting to see the legacy,” adding that he didn’t realize how important decisions made during college would have lasting effects.

The Kozimors reminisced about their early days at GCU when it was much smaller with only a few buildings and students. Jamie mentioned how Grand Canyon lived up to its reputation for training good teachers: “Those quality people who sneak into your life can help guide you.”

Tyler's path to teaching was influenced by an experience helping a student understand a concept during an afterschool program. This moment confirmed his decision to pursue education as a career.

Both Tyler and Alicia are committed to addressing educational challenges through their roles at GCU. “We love learning, and this way we could still be in the classroom and grow our careers,” Tyler said.

The couple often visits campus with their children Blake and Scout for events like basketball games. They believe strongly in promoting GCU’s values: “When we go to schools and talk to teachers and student prospects...we believe in the things we are saying,” Alicia stated.

As they paused near the Lope Shop where they first met decades ago, Steve reflected on finding his calling through teaching: “That’s how I felt God was directing my life.” Both he and Jamie found support within each other throughout their careers as educators.

The Kozimors' story continues with new generations attending GCU while maintaining strong ties to its community values—something both parents take pride in sharing with others interested or involved within education fields today.