The Bottom Line, Fall 2015

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Chancellor’s

MEASURE M: REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

R E P O R T

Culinary Facility Completes Valencia Campus Plans T

Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook

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o mark the start of a new academic year at College of the Canyons, our tradition is to identify an aspirational theme that focuses our collective efforts as a college and reminds us what we are trying to accomplish.

Our theme for 2015-16 is “Our Spirit of Innovation & Excellence – en, Now and Always.”

Innovation has been a hallmark of our college throughout its 46 years of service to Santa Clarita. A commitment to continuous improvement means that we are in a constant state of development. College of the Canyons is a dynamic, thriving institution always looking for ways to improve what we offer and how we serve our students, local business and industry, and the community at large.

We are, simply, unwilling to be satisfied with the status quo. We are committed to change. We are resolved to improve. It is who we are and what we do. And as a result, we have achieved a proven record of excellence.

College of the Canyons is recognized locally as an economic catalyst and responsive community partner, and statewide as a leader in student achievement.

And more importantly, because of our commitment to innovation and excellence, we are poised for future success.

See INNOVATION on page 2

he familiar sights and sounds of construction activity are fading into memory with the opening of the College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education, which, as the last major construction project, signifies the completion of the Valencia campus.

“I am proud to say that all projects listed in the Master Plan are complete and made possible by the people of the Santa Clarita Valley, who put their faith in us when they approved two critical bond measures over the last 14 years,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “We had the plan, but we couldn’t have implemented it without the community’s enduring support.”

See MEASURE M on page 12

College of the Canyons Receives

TOP ACCREDITATION APPROVAL A

nearly two-year institutional review process culminated with the announcement that the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) reaffirmed accreditation for College of the Canyons at the highest possible rating.

The commission notified the college that its accreditation has been approved for another six-year term, with only one regular midterm report due in 2017. This is the highest level of approval possible, and is only awarded when an institution “substantially meets or exceeds the Eligibility Requirements, Accreditation Standards and Commission policies,” Commission President Barbara Beno stated in her notification letter.

See ACCREDITATION on page 12

W E B E L I E V E IN TEACHING, LEADING AND STAYING AT THE FOREFRO N T O F C H A N G E

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T H E BOTTOM LINE I FALL 2015

INNOVATION from page 1 LEADER IN STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT

ECONOMIC CATALYST

By offering more than 100 degree and certificate programs that prepare students to transfer to top 4-year campuses, or launch high-paying careers, College of the Canyons stands out as a leader in student achievement.

We are ranked among the top five community colleges in California – and number one in Los Angeles County – for our completion rate by college-prepared students. In fact, the Class of 2015 was the largest in college’s 46-year history, with a 9 percent increase in graduates over the previous year.

College of the Canyons plays an oen unseen but decidedly significant role in the ongoing economic development of the Santa Clarita Valley.

In one year, the college’s Economic Development Division generated $3.7 million in grants to offer cutting-edge training for 866 companies and 5,000 individual employees. As well, it participated in and contributed to 39 business startups, helped clients create 323 jobs, contributed to a $26.3 million increase in sales for business/industry partners, and helped clients raise $15.3 million in new capital.

PROVEN PERFORMANCE

We are ranked among the top five community colleges in California – and number one in Los Angeles County – for our completion rate by college-prepared students.

As you saw on page 1, recently we completed a lengthy and rigorous process of accreditation, which resulted in achieving the highest re-accreditation status possible for a full six-year term.

A key factor in our accreditation success is our sound fiscal management. e district’s finances, including the Foundation, undergo thorough annual audits by outside accountants. eir reviews of our operations in 2013-14 resulted in the best ratings possible for the district.

At the same time, we have delivered on what we promised the community. Since 2006, we have spent $303 million on capital improvements to our campuses in Valencia and Canyon Country. In fact, the opening of Canyons Hall on the Valencia Campus marked the completion of the current Facilities Master Plan, and the campus is officially built out.

Much of the construction in recent years was funded through Measure M, a $160-million bond measure. Since local voters approved Measure M in 2006, our audits have been clean, and the Measure M Citizens Oversight Committee has verified that all expenditures were proper.

RESPONSIVE COMMUNITY PARTNER We have long recognized the power of partnerships, and the added value that is created when two or more organizations come together to create something new. Witness the University Center, through which nearly 3,000 local residents have earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from our five university partners.

Our K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program, which connects with every K-12 school district

in the Santa Clarita Valley, has served more than 70,000 students, either by bringing them to campus to experience a show in the Performing Arts Center, or through artists visiting elementary, junior high, and high school campuses.

POSITIONED FOR SUCCESS So what’s next for College of the Canyons?

Continued innovation and excellence fueled by steady growth in the number of students we serve, and matched by new programs and opportunities. In just the first quarter of the 201516 fiscal year, we obtained $14.2 million of grant revenue – a 55.9 percent increase over the prior fiscal year – which will enable us to provide new services to students.

In 2014-15, we served more than 30,000 students, and we are projected to grow by additional 3.75 percent for 2015-16 and add 1,125 students to our campuses. To ensure our students have access to the classes they need to complete their goals, we’re offering the largestever number of courses in fall 2015.

Likewise, our facilities will continue to expand to keep pace with the continued growth in enrollment. Capital improvements planned for the coming year total $26 million. And a new 21,000-square-foot science building is on the horizon for the Canyon Country Campus. Initial space planning is already under way, which will guide the development of architectural drawings due to be completed in early 2016.

It is clear that College of the Canyons is positioned for continued growth in enrollment, facilities, and funding. Our spirit of innovation will compel us to capitalize on that potential, and I know the results will be marked by excellence, now and always.

Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook serves as Chancellor of College of the Canyons.

The Bottom Line is published by the College of the Canyons Public Information Office to inform the community of news and events of interest in the Santa Clarita Community College District.

Vice President, Public Information, Advocacy and External Relations Eric Harnish

Stories Jesse Munoz Ernie Stone Wendy Trujillo

Managing Director, District Communication and Marketing John Green

Photography Jesse Munoz Nick Pavik Ernie Stone Graphic Design Lila Sude

Phone (661) 259-7800 Internet www.canyons.edu Mailing Address Santa Clarita Community College District 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91355

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Features Impressive Lineup of Shows THE BOTTOM LINE I FA L L 2 0 1 5

NEW PAC SEASON

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hether you prefer the heart-stirring twang of a country song, the hilarity of talented animals or the heavy beat of a drum, the 2015-16 Season at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons has exactly what you need for an unforgettable afternoon or evening out on the town.

This year’s stellar season kicks off Sept. 12, with the incomparable classic rock band Kansas.

Hot on the heels of Kansas comes Nashville — or rather the talent-filled super group from Nashville known as The Time Jumpers.

A favorite at Sept. 30: The Time Jumpers featuring Vince Gill, Kenny the world-famous Sears and Ranger Doug Green Stagecoach Musical Festival this year, the band features musical greats Vince Gill, Kenny Sears, and Riders In The Sky front man Ranger Doug Green, along with a host of other well-known musicians. Don’t miss your opportunity to see them live in action Sept. 30.

The production of “Room on the Broom” will delight audiences on Oct. 24, as the tale of a sweet witch and a cat and a very tall hat comes to life. The Golden Dragon Acrobats are also scheduled to flip, dance and amaze their way onto the PAC stage in a spectacularly colorful show Oct. 30.

“Stunt Dog Experience” will bring an afternoon of high-energy excitement — in the form of some seriously talented furry friends — to the PAC on Nov. 13.

The final Family Series show brings to the stage one of the most recognized and beloved storybook characters in history with a production of “The Cat in the Hat,” on Jan. 17. Los Lonely Boys will visit the PAC on Feb. 20. From their smash hit debut single “Heaven” to their current album “Revelation,” this band knows how to bring an audiences to their feet.

If powerful drumming that you can feel all the way to your toes combined with the beauty of exotic costumes and athletic bodies interests you, then make plans to see the performance group TAO which makes a return visit to the PAC in its newest show “TAO: Seventeen Samurai” on March 13.

The season finishes strong on April 17, with one of the biggest stars in country music — John Michael Montgomery.

With hits like “Life’s a Dance” to “I Can Love You Like That,” audiences are sure to recognize some of Montgomery’s most beloved songs being crooned from the PAC stage.

In addition to these fantastic COC Presents shows, the PAC will also offer a number of lively community performances from ESCAPE Theatre, Santa Clarita Ballet, Santa Clarita Master Chorale and Santa Clarita Regional Theatre.

The COC theatre, dance and music departments will also be performing throughout the season, offering you the chance to see the stars of tomorrow shine on stage today.

For more information, visit www.canyonspac.com.

March 13: Tao: Seventeen Samurai returns to the PAC.

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T H E BOTTOM LINE I FALL 2015

College Recognized for Efforts Replacing Textbooks

WITH FREE ONLINE MATERIALS C

ollege of the Canyons has been At the Open Education Global Conference in Banff, recognized for its ongoing leadCanada in April, COC sociology ership in promoting the use of Open professor Anne Marenco was Educational Resources in the classhonored with the organization’s room to help reduce student costs Educator Award for Exceland increase access to higher edulence, recognizing her work to cation. encourage fellow educators to Open Educational Resources share their materials more (OER) are free, electronic educaopenly. tional content materials, which are “Anne has worked tirelessly increasingly used as an alternative to expand, adapt and even auto traditional textbooks. thor openly licensed textbooks OERs are licensed in a way so that are used by the hundreds they can be legally and freely of students she has in her classshared, reproduced and modified. room each year,” said GlapaAs such, OERs offer students a Grossklag. “She has also no-cost alternative to costly cominspired dozens of her colmercial textbooks while helping to make the price of college more af- Dean James Glapa-Grossklag (standing) leads a discussion on open educational resources, leagues to do the same, thereby expanding that benefits to litwhich save students up to $750,000 per year over traditional printed textbooks. fordable to all. erally thousands of students.”

College officials estimate COC It’s estimated that the use of students save approximately $750,000 each openly licensed sociology textbooks alone year by using openly licensed materials College officials estimate saves College of the Canyons students aprather than commercial textbooks. $180,000 per year. that COC students save proximately “By engaging in the global OER moveIn fact, a national survey released by the ment College of the Canyons has been able approximately $750,000 U.S. Public Interest Research Group found to fulfill one of our missions as a community that 50 percent of students reported taking college, which is to help make education each year by using openly fewer college courses or different courses more accessible,” said James Glapalicensed materials rather due to textbook costs.

Grossklag, dean of educational technology, In addition, 65 percent chose to not buy learning resources and distance learning at than commercial textbooks. the textbook at all, while 94 percent exthe college. pressed concern that their grades would Glapa-Grossklag was been elected presisuffer because they could not afford the dent of the Open Education Consortium, a staff located around the world. He will also textbook. worldwide community organization advanc- work to develop and maintain partnerships “Stories and statistics like these have ing open education. with non-governmental organizations and pushed the college to expand its use of In his new role as president, Glapa- professional associations interested in the OERs,” said Glapa-Grossklag, “so that evenGrossklag will provide oversight of the orga- use of OERs. tually COC students will be able to complete nization’s management, finances and Glapa-Grossklag is not alone in advancing an associate degree program using only programs, as carried out by a professional these efforts. openly licensed materials.”

WELDING DEPARTMENT UPGRADES

Robotic Automation Program I

n an effort to maintain its cutting edge exposure to manufacturing technology, the College of the Canyons welding technology department has installed Laser Touch Sensing adaptive control systems on two of its robotic welding machines.

According to Lincoln Service Technician Christopher Joseph, touch sensing is “the first line of defense against poor weld joint repeatability.”

An upgrade from conventional touch sensing, the laser touch sensing process improves the overall speed, efficiency and quality of the robotic welding process.

“With conventional touch sensing, a series of physical touches is required to de-

termine the part orientation before the robotics can confirm any misalignment,” said Tim Baber, department chair of the college’s welding technology program.

“But this methodical process is eliminated with laser touch sensing,” added Baber. “Part position is confirmed within seconds rather than minutes, and that 45 seconds you could save is a huge deal in a manufacturing environment.”

Funding for the new systems was secured through a National Science Foundation Advanced Manufacturing Processing Technicians grant awarded to the college.

Laser touch sense technology and training will be incorporated into the program

curriculum for the fall 2015 semester.

Because of the department’s heavy focus on the immediate development of employable workers, training students with cutting edge technology is a winning proposition for Baber.

“This type of training provides a lot of value to the student, and it can eventually provide value to the company they find employment with,” Baber added. “With so many employers looking to robotics for improvement in their bottom line, students displaying an ability to operate laser touch sensing increase their employability and wage-earning potential.”

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$4.8 Million and Counting

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Latest Grant Funds Cutting-Edge Training

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he College of the Canyons Employee Training Institute’s mission to increase the global competitiveness of employers through the development of well-trained, productive workers was advanced with a two-year $468,551 contract awarded by the California Employee Training Panel (ETP).

FUNDING

This is the 12th ETP contract received by the college. In total, COC has been awarded $4,866,000 over the past 12 contracts (24 years) to support incumbent worker training and provide client companies with an up-skilled workforce.

“College of the Canyons is a catalyst for economic development in the community,” said Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook. “By bringing state resources to the Santa Clarita Valley, we equip local companies with the skills and training that are necessary for their continued growth and development, and that positions them to be on the leading edge of their respective industries.”

CUSTOMIZED TRAINING

Through funding provided by earlier ETP contracts, many regional companies have already had their eligibility certified and are ready to begin taking advantage of custom and off-the-shelf training programs available under the new contract.

“We are very pleased that the ETP has awarded this follow-on contract to the college,” said John Milburn, director of the college’s Employee Training Institute. “Now we can con-

tinue to deliver low-cost, high-value training to our client companies over the next two years. This new award goes a long way in demonstrating the panel’s trust in the effectiveness of our programs.”

Using ETP funds, a company attempting to deliver a 40-hour Lean Manufacturing training program for 10 employees can cut the costs of a $9,700 program by up to 74 percent.

“Our training program offering has a great breadth and depth of topics,” said Joe Klocko, dean of economic development at COC. “We have experts providing training ranging from basic skills like blueprint reading and applied shop mathematics to sophisticated CAD/CAM and Lean/Six Sigma programs.”

For more information about using ETP funds for training at your company, contact John Milburn at (661) 362-3245 or john.milburn@canyons.edu.

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS LEADS Statewide Best Practices Initiative

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ollege of the Canyons was selected by the California Community Chancellor’s Office to partner in a new effort to help the state’s community colleges improve their fiscal and operational effectiveness and provide technical support that will promote student success.

“We are honored to have been chosen to help lead this effort, and we’re excited about the potential it represents,” said Dr. Dianne Van Hook, Chancellor of College of the Canyons. “By continuing to learn, striving for ongoing improvement and enhancing the effectiveness of our colleges, everyone wins – our students, those who support and invest in us, the businesses we serve, and our system. Collectively, we grow stronger, garner added respect for improved outcomes, and build our potential to do even more for our state.”

INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS

Under the direction of the Chancellor’s Office new division of institutional effectiveness, “No one individual has all the

answers when it comes to keeping up with innovation, complying with regulatory changes or implementing effective student success policies,” said Chancellor Brice W. Harris. “This effort taps the collective expertise of our system and lever-

College of the Canyons will build a robust technical assistance infrastructure to promote student success reforms. ages it to ensure all colleges keep pace with changes designed to help more students succeed. We intend to be the coach, cheerleader and ‘help desk’ staff for colleges seeking guidance on how to improve their operations.”

The field work will include the deployment of subject experts to colleges seeking assistance in various operational areas, promotion of best practices in the improvement of student outcomes, professional development and training services, as well as program evaluation. College of the Canyons will carry out its work under a five-year, $24.5 million grant from the Chancellor’s Office.

FOCUS ON STUDENT SUCCESS

The team will work with Vice Chancellor for Institutional Effectiveness Theresa Tena as the Chancellor’s Office expands its capacity to provide direct assistance to colleges. California community colleges are in a period of unprecedented change focused on increasing the number of students who complete their educational goals. The system set a goal of increasing the number of students earning certificates, degrees or transferring to four-year institutions by nearly a quarter of a million over the next 10 incoming freshman classes.

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T H E BOTTOM LINE I FALL 2015

College Helps

HART DISTRICT ROBOTICS TEAM GO NATIONAL B

y providing an $8,500 sponsorship to the William S. Hart Union High School District’s Project 691 robotics competition team, College of the Canyons helped the group of students compete at the 2015 FIRST Robotics Competition World Championship in St. Louis.

Since 2000, Project 691 has offered hands-on technical and life experience to future engineers and entrepreneurs.

Alumni have gone on to universities such as UCLA, UC Berkeley, Cal Tech and Cal Poly.

This year marks the first time in a decade that the student-led, mentor-guided competition team has earned eligibility to participate in the FIRST World Championship.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded by Segway inventor Dean Kamen to inspire young people to become science and technology leaders.

The competition requires students to design a team brand and build robots that can perform specific tasks.

This year’s challenge required teams to design a robot that stacks large boxes. Teams had just Project 691, a high school robotics team, competed in a national competition thanks to a six weeks to design their College of the Canyons sponsorship. creations.

However, upon selection to the tourna- ality. The sponsorship covered more than ment, funding became a concern, as the half of the team’s planned expenses.

“We were excited to help support an enteam, along with its robot and corresponding supplies, needed to travel to Missouri deavor that creates pathways to programs in manufacturing, welding and electronics,” for nearly a week.

That’s when College of the Canyons said Gabrielle Temple, NSF co-principal instepped in to help. With funding from a re- vestigator and instructor of communication cent National Science Foundation grant, studies. “This was a wonderful opportunity the college provided the team with a spon- for these high school students to test their sorship of $8,500 to help make the trip a re- skill sets among a worldwide audience.”

NUTS, BOLTS & THINGAMAJIGS Manufacturing Camp Puts Tools in Students’ Hands

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roviding 16 high school students with a guided introduction to the world of working with metal, College of the Canyons hosted the Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs® (NBT) Advanced Manufacturing Camp at its state-of-the-art welding technology facility this past summer.

As part of the weeklong camp, students worked alongside expert instructors and industry professionals to acquire the necessary skills and safety training needed to master introductory metal fabrication and welding techniques.

“Each day students were able to enter the lab and immediately get to work cutting, drilling and shaping metal into various projects using the college’s industry grade metal fabrication equipment,” said Tim Baber, chair of the welding technology department.

Ed Youdell, president & CEO of the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, and David Brown, vice-chair of the NBT board, visited the camp and interacted with participants.

“A key piece of this (program) is finding the right community college,” Youdell said about partnering with COC to establish a tuition-based summer camp model.

The camp was made possible by support from the Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs Foundation, a National Science Foundation Ad-

COC welding lab assistant Will Moulton (left) helps a student operate a drill press during a summer manufacturing camp for high school students.

vanced Manufacturing & Processing Training (NSF-AMPT) grant, Lincoln Electric, Classic Wire Cut, and RAH Industries.

“We would not be able to provide local students with these type of engaging, career exploration learning opportunities without the continued support from our stable of industry partners,” said Baber.

For more information about the welding technology department, visit www.canyons.edu/Departments/WELD. For information about Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs® visit www.nutsandboltsfoundation.org.

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PATH TO SUCCESS

FUELED BY NASA INTERNSHIP T

hrough his involvement with various on-campus clubs, activities and employment opportunities, College of the Canyons student Ryan McPeters has taken full advantage of the opportunities presented to him.

But in securing an internship with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) for the study of semicircular matter disks and stellar formation and extinction, McPeters is rounding out the beginnings of a dynamic career that simply can’t be ignored.

“Ryan is one of those students who won’t let anything or anyone stop him, and he’s very ambitious, dedicated and passionate about the STEM fields,” said Dr. Eric Lara, director of the college’s Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement (MESA) program.

Lara works closely with McPeters at the MESA center on campus, where McPeters serves as a tutor. When one of his peers told him about the internship opportunity with JPL, McPeters asked Lara for help in compiling the necessary paperwork.

“I had a friend in MESA who told me about this internship she was applying for, and she encouraged me to do the same. Although, to be honest I think she just needed a carpool,” McPeters said.

He drives to JPL three times a week where he writes code for 15 hours.

A product of home-schooling and charter schools, McPeters began at COC as a 15-year-old in 2011 after completing his high school requirements.

He hit the ground running, diving into the many resources offered. After switching his focus from architecture to engineering, McPeters became president of the Math Club and assisted in the revival of the Engineering Club.

Once McPeters got involved with various STEM-based clubs, the workings of the student-organized COC Science Expo first began.

“I noticed that in general a lot of clubs existed, but didn’t necessarily interact with each other. So through working with Gamma Beta Phi – which opened up my access to faculty members – I branched out to some different departments and started to put together the Science Expo with my friend Stephanie Valencia,” McPeters said.

The 2015 Science Expo – “A Race to Save Humanity” – featured students addressing various disaster scenarios that threaten the fate of mankind.

“Ryan is amazing. He’s efficient but also such a joy to work with,” said Anne

Marenco, chair of the college’s sociology department. “He has a great sense of humor and a brilliant mind, and he’ll excel at whatever he chooses to do.”

COLLEGE PARTNERS WITH LAPD ON

NEW INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Automotive technology students learn skills on the job through an internship with the Los Angeles Police Department.

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y partnering with Los Angeles Police Department to offer a new Motor Transport Division: Student Internship program, College of the Canyons is providing automotive technology students with a significant opportunity for professional growth with one of the region’s most well-known organizations.

Qualified students receive hands-on instruction from current

LAPD employees in diagnostics, preventative maintenance, and installing special equipment for law enforcement vehicles.

“It’s gratifying to broker a partnership of this value. The City of Los Angeles brings to the table a well-structured internship that will offer an opportunity for our students to work side-byside with veterans of the LAPD Motor Transport Division,” said Gina Bogna, assistant dean, internships, job development & career center at the college.

Four COC students were selected to participate this summer in the internship program after a rigorous application process, including intensive interviews and background checks.

Michael van Lamsweerde, Jeannette Constantino, Lynda Nunez and Kimberly Night completed their 60-hour internship between June 22 and August 8.

“The use of the word ‘amazing’ would be an understatement to describe the opportunity afforded to these students,” said Bogna. “The fact that three of the students are female is especially unique in this typically male-dominated industry.”

The LAPD Motor Transport division is widely recognized as a COC auto in technology students learnfleet skills on the job through an 5,100-vehicle internship with leader law enforcement operations.

The the Lostravels Angeles about Police Department. fleet 56 million miles annually. The annual budget for all maintenance including repairs, tires, oil and fuel ranges between $25 and $32 million.

For more information, visit the job and internship portal under “My Jobs” at www.canyons.edu/myjobs. To learn more about the Automotive Technology Department, visit www.canyons.edu/Departments/Auto

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T H E BOTTOM LINE I FALL 2015

COLLEGE HOSTS SAUDI EDUCATORS As Part of eLearning Program C

ollege of the Canyons hosted nine educators from the National Center for eLearning and Distance Education in Saudi Arabia as part of a year-long eLearning Pioneers Program this past summer.

The visit was the result of an ongoing partnership between College of the Canyons and the worldwide Open Education Consortium.

During the five-day visit in late July, the group took part in an program designed to prepare female faculty and university leaders with the skills needed to engage in online and blended learning.

“Higher education has not yet fully embraced all the opportunities that the digital information age provides to students and faculty,” said Manal Al-Dahash of the National Center for eLearning and Distance Education. “The eLearning Pioneers program will help our female faculty and university leaders embrace technology-enhanced education, which will better prepare our students for the 21st century.”

The group sat in on classes at the Valencia campus, toured The Learning Center (TLC) and Library, and participated in instructional workshops while interacting with students, staff and faculty.

One participant observed: “The excellent team at College of the Canyons showed us that there is much more to online teaching than technology. The people are so important.”

By participating in the training and workshops, the visiting educators will be better

able to incorporate U.S.-based pedagogy and learning strategies at their home institutions – and create greater educational opportunities for the Saudi population, particularly girls and women.

“By engaging in the global OER movement, College of the Canyons has been able to fulfill one of our institutional missions, which is to help make education more accessible,” said James Glapa-Grossklag, dean of educational technology, learning resources and distance learning at the college.

The Open Education Consortium is a worldwide community of higher education institutions committed to advancing open education around the globe. The consortium includes more than 250 institutional members, including Glapa-Grossklag, who is president of the organization.

Joining College of the Canyons as placement institutions for the eLearning Pioneers Program are: The University of New Hampshire, The University of Massachusetts, Tufts University, and University of California, Irvine.

H F S

Art Gallery Presents ‘Plein Air’ Exhibit T

he College of the Canyons Art Gallery will present a collection of works from local artists in “Plein Air: California Landscape Painting,” the first exhibition of the fall semester.

The exhibition runs Tuesday, Sept. 1 through Thursday, Oct. 22 at the Art Gallery, located at the Valencia campus.

Plein Air painting, described as “the practice of painting on location in the open-air” with the artist’s subject in full view, inspires a unique passion among the participating artists, Art Gallery Director Larry Hurst said.

“Working outdoors can be challenging, yet it offers the unique opportunity to be present at the actual time that the light and atmosphere are in alignment for the artist to capture on canvas,” Hurst said. “Each of these artists shares a common reverence for this quest that can be truly described as spiritual.”

Participating artists include Karl Dempwolf, Joe Forkan, Alan Garber, Mike Hernandez, Lorelle Miller, Laura Wambsgans and Raymond Cuevas.

Dempwolf’s work has been exhibited throughout the Southwest.

His paintings are part of permanent collections of McGraw-Hill Publishers and the National Park Foundation.

Forkan’s earlier work, “The Lebowski Cycle,” has been exhibited at the Art Gallery and featured in Esquire Magazine. He is also a professor of art at California State University, Fullerton.

In addition to painting, Garber’s wide-ranging career also includes that of a model maker for the film industry. He is a member of the California Art Club and the Pasadena Society of Artists.

Hernandez is an accomplished artist who has also worked as an art director and production designer for DreamWorks Pictures. His previous projects included “Shrek” and “Bee Movie.”

Fa

Miller is an accomplished artist working with various mediums including oils, pastels, stone and marble sculpture. Her work has been featured at exhibits around the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Norway.

Wambsgans is a painter and sculptor whose work has been exhibited throughout Southern California, including the Santa Clarita Valley Art Classic and the Old Town Newhall Art Walk.

Cuevas is an artist who focuses on the landscapes of Los Angeles and San Gabriel. His works have been exhibited since 1987 and been held in private collections throughout the U.S. In addition to the Plein Air paintings, the exhibit will also feature works from the Steve & Doris Marie Zimmer collection to add historical context. Those works range from the 1920s through the 1940s.

The Art Gallery is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and by special appointment on Mondays. For more information, visit www.canyons.edu/artgallery or call (661) 362-3612.

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Men’s Golf Team

WINS SEVENTH STATE TITLE A

fter falling a stroke short of a state title last season, the College of the Canyons men's golf team bounced back in a big way this season to win the 2015 California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) State Championship at Kings River Golf & Country Club in Kingsburg.

The win gave Coach Gary Peterson his 13th state title – more than any other community college coach in the state.

FIVE-MAN SCORE OF 733

Canyons carded a five-man score of 733 to hold off tourney host and second place finisher Reedley College at 741. Santa Rosa Junior College took third place at 743.

Canyons held an eight-stroke lead after

the first round of play, with freshman Matt Murray and sophomore Eric Kim each turning in under par rounds of 71 to lead the Cougars over the first 18 holes.

Kim would shoot a 74 in the second round to finish with a 36-hole score of 145.

That mark would tie with sophomore Sam Sloman who turned in rounds of 74 and 71 to tie Kim for the team lead.

Golfers brought the state championship trophy home to College of the Canyons.

WINNINGEST COACH

The 2015 State Championship is the seventh in COC men's golf program history – all coming under head coach Gary Peterson.

Fast Track Institute

HONORED FOR HIGH SUCCESS RATE

Canyons also won state titles in 1993, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2008 and 2013 before finishing as runner up in 2014.

Peterson’s women’s golf teams have won six state championships.

I

n receiving an “Outstanding Achievement Award” from the South Bay Workforce Investment Bureau, the College of the Canyons Fast Track Institute was recognized for its ability to funnel skilled, trained employees into the workforce.

During 2013-14, COC’s Fast Track graduates in the Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machining and Assembly and Test Technicians programs boasted a 77 percent placement rate in the professional realm.

“People with a lifetime background in education will tell you that 77 percent is a fantastic number, and in this particular case we placed at 100% in a few specific programs,” said Joe Klocko, Dean of Economic Development at the college.

“It’s to the credit of the program that we can put people through a course for seven weeks and see successful job placement as a direct result.”

The Fast Track program runs for seven weeks, and students spend 40 hours per week in training to learn skills that enable them to begin new careers in highwage, high-demand industries.

For more information about enrolling in the Fast Track program, or interviewing its graduates, please call the Economic Development Division at (661) 362-3521

STUDENT TAPS HER WAY INTO UCLA C assidy Henry wanted to attend the University of California at Los Angeles since she was a 13-year-old growing up in Pennsylvania.

Born in Ransom, a dwindling manufacturing town, Henry’s dream was put on temporary hiatus as a high school senior after being admitted to every UC campus she applied to – except the one that mattered most to her.

“I knew I wanted to go there for a long time, but I was an out-of-state student and we didn’t have a lot of money,” Henry said about UCLA. Unwilling to give up, Henry decided to enroll at College of the Canyons in 2013 after researching her academic options and living

situations online.

A key reason why Henry chose COC was the UCLA Transfer Alliance Program (TAP).

Through TAP, community college faculty and counselors help students create education plans that fulfill UCLA admissions criteria. TAP also provides other meaningful linkages to UCLA, such as on-campus informational meetings and tours, library privileges, and other UCLA cultural and athletic events.

Seeing a clear path to achieving her dream, an 18-year-old Henry headed west on her own.

“My parents were rooting for me to get out

See UCLA on page 15

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The College of the Canyons Foundation presented the Newhall Family with the Silver Spur Award for Community Service to recognize their 140-year history of shaping and supporting the Santa Clarita Valley.

1. Joining Dr. Van Hook in the celebration were Valerie Cooper (left), and previous Silver Spur honorees Gary Cusumano (2004) and his wife Diana (2011).

2. John Boston, who worked for Scott and Ruth Newhall at The Signal, served as the auctioneer.

3. Nearly three dozen family members – all descendants of patriarch Henry Mayo Newhall who bought a ranch that comprised much of what we know today as Santa Clarita – attended the event.

4. Dr. Van Hook (right) presented the Silver Spur Award to (from left) David Newhall, his father Skip Newhall, and Tony Newhall, Skip’s brother.

5. Newhall Family members who attended included (from left): Christopher Halbasch, Matthew Halbasch, David Newhall, Samantha Newhall, Alexander Newhall, and Skip Newhall.

6. Skip Newhall thanks the college and foundation for the honor.

7. Auctioneer John Boston dressed in period attire, reminiscent of what Henry Mayo Newhall would have worn in his own successful auction business.

8. Foundation Chair Randy Moberg (left) joined Dr. Van Hook and 2014 Silver Spur honorees Remo and Ami Belli in celebrating.

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Oversight Committee

AFFIRMS BOND AUDIT T

he Measure M Citizens Oversight Committee accepted the results of an independent audit that confirms the college spent bond funds as authorized. The audit verified that the college complied with all laws and accountability measures set forth in Proposition 39, the California Constitution, and the California education code, and that bond funds were not spent on administration or operational costs.

“This was a very impressive audit,” said Nick Lentini, chair of the oversight committee. “It did not contain any findings, which is a testament to the college’s strict fiscal controls and extensive staff efforts.”

In its audits for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, Vavrinek, Trine, Day & Co. noted no adjustments, audit findings, questioned costs, or instances of noncompliance associated with the bond – further confirming that all funds were spent appropriately.

The auditing firm issued an unmodified opinion, the best rating possible. “For eight years running College of the Canyons has earned a clean Measure M audit, reinforcing its reputation for appropriately managing its bond funds,” said Sharlene Coleal, vice president of business services at the college.

Local voters approved the $160 million bond in 2006. The district has $20 million in bonds to be issued at a later date, after issuing $80 million in May 2007, $35 million in May 2012, and $25 million in September 2014 (after the audit was

Measure M funded 65 percent ($11.5 million) of the construction costs for Canyons Hall.

performed).

By supplementing bond funds with earned interest and $132.6 million in matching state funds and other funding sources, an estimated $303.3 million in projects are planned.

“We are proud of our record of clean audits, which confirm that we continue to deliver on the promises made to voters when they approved Measure M,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said.

“The Santa Clarita Valley expects us to create a college that is capable of delivering cutting-edge education and training that allows students to achieve their

“This was a very impressive audit. It did not contain any findings, which is a testament to the college’s strict fiscal controls and extensive staff efforts.”

– Nick Lentini

goals. I’m proud that we’re exceeding those expectations through the resources they entrusted to us through Measure M.”

AGE OF INSPIRATION: 99-YEAR-OLD EARNS DEGREE D

uring her lifetime, 99-year-old College of the Canyons graduate and Agua Dulce resident Doreetha Daniels has lived through the Great Depression, World War II and the fall of Nazi Germany, the Civil Rights movement, the moon landing, the collapse of the Berlin Wall and end of the Cold War and, and most recently, the ushering in of the digital information age.

But with all the drama the past has offered, Daniels – originally from North Platte, Neb. – had yet to be presented with a challenge quite like earning her associate degree.

A DREAM FULFILLED

CHANCeLLoR VAN Hook CeLeBRATeS WiTH 99-yeAR-oLD GRADuATe DoReeTHA DANieLS.

On Friday, June 5, that dream was fulfilled as Daniels walked across the stage and accomplished her goal of earning a college degree before her 100th birthday.

She also cemented her legacy as a College of the Canyons first, holding the record for being

the oldest graduate in the college’s history.

“There will be some tears of accomplishment for sure,” Daniels said during an interview prior to commencement. “I understand that to earn a degree in college at age 99, that’s a bit unusual.”

In spring 2009, Daniels began taking courses at the college’s Canyon Country Campus with a goal to earn her degree and walk at graduation.

To those who may have wondered why Daniels would pursue such a goal so late in life, Daniels simply explained she had always lived life to the fullest, and achieved many things, but never completed her education.

“Doreetha is an amazing example of determination who reminds us that we can indeed accomplish our goals if we stay focused and never give up on our dreams,” said College of See INSPIRATION on page 15

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MEASURE M continued from page 1 The bond measures – Measure M and Measure C – played a decisive role in allowing College of the Canyons to meet the demand, and exceed expectations, for cutting-edge educational and training programs; build and equip state-of-the-art facilities to accommodate them; develop an entirely new campus in Canyon Country; create an innovative facility where residents can earn university degrees locally, and be as thoroughly prepared for the future as possible.

voters in November 2016.

The governor blocked a similar measure last year after it was approved unanimously by the Legislature.

College of the Canyons has experienced extraordinary growth, facilities progress and student success. It has grown from 735 students in 1969 to more than 31,000 annually at its two campuses.

The college’s commitment to student success is reflected in its student completion rate – the rate at which students earn degrees, certificates or transfer-prepared status. It’s the FOCUS ON CANYON Planning will begin this year on a new science lab and classroom highest of all community COUNTRY CAMPUS building at the Canyon Country Campus. colleges in Los Angeles With major construction County and ranks in the top 5 coming to an end at the Valencia “With the Valencia campus among California’s 113 commucampus, attention will turn to the Canyon Country campus, where permacompleted, our focus and en- nity colleges. This unprecedented level of progress and success has been achieved nent buildings have been planned to ergies will be directed toward in large part by the optimism of a histormeet the demands of a fast-growing camically supportive community when it pus that surpassed enrollment projecensuring that the Canyon Measure M, the $160 million bond tions from Day 1.

Country campus has modern, backed in 2006, and the bond measure that preHoused primarily in modular buildings, up-to-date facilities that can ceded it, the $82 million Measure C in the Canyon Country campus opened with 2001. more than 3,000 students in 2007. Within accommodate educational Measure M, specifically, is responsible five years, enrollment topped 5,000, a figand training programs both for significant, prominent progress from ure that is greater than that of eight Calnow and well into the future.” one side of the Santa Clarita Valley to the ifornia community colleges. other. On the east, the college has estabWith Measure M funding available, the – Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook lished a compelling presence with an encollege qualifies for matching funding tirely new campus in Canyon Country. On from the state to jump-start construction of permanent facilities at the Canyon tingent on passage of a statewide facili- the west, the Valencia campus has been Country campus. But construction is con- ties bond, which could be presented to See MEASURE M on page 14

ACCREDITATION continued from page 1

“I am extremely proud of the outcome of our accreditation process, as it confirms what our community has long known about College of the Canyons – that we are a strategic, forward-thinking college committed to continuous improvement and the success of our students,” College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook said.

Accreditation is a voluntary process colleges and universities undergo to evaluate and assure the quality of education used by the American higher education community – and to make those results known to the public. The ACCJC evaluates and accredits public and private postsecondary institutions that offer two-year education programs and award the associate degree.

The accreditation process is conducted not only to assure the quality of the institution, but also to encourage institutional improvement. All accredited institutions are expected to use the report to improve their educational pro-

grams and services. The process includes an intensive institutional self-evaluation report, followed by an outside peer evaluation of an institution’s adherence to set standards of good practice, and an ongoing analysis of the overall quality of programs and services offered by the college.

“We engaged in a comprehensive effort to document all that we do, and how we demonstrate the best qualities of higher education,” said Dr. Jerry Buckley, vice president of instruction, who led the college’s accreditation efforts. “College of the Canyons again demonstrated to our community that we are committed to a high standard of teaching and learning, as well as support for our local businesses and industries by having our accreditation status reaffirmed.”

The college began compiling its selfevaluation report in fall 2013, and submitted it to the commission in August 2014 before a team of peer evaluators visited the college two months later.

“The results of accreditation are a testament to everyone who works at College of the Canyons, and in particular, the more than 140 faculty, staff, and administrators who helped to write the selfevaluation report, catalog the required evidence, and produce the report. As with everything we undertake at COC, it was a team effort marked by dedication, enthusiasm and a sense of purpose,” Dr. Van Hook said.

The visiting team of peer evaluators commended the college for successful fiscal management; developing a welcoming, student-centered learning environment; promoting effective student leadership; highlighting the talents of students by displaying student artwork throughout both campuses; and cultivating robust community partnerships.

The self-evaluation report and the visiting team’s report, are available online at http://www.canyons.edu/Offices/PIO/Accreditation/

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$5.5 Million Grant Funds NEW CAREER PATHWAYS PROJECT

ollege of the Canyons received a $5.5 million grant to create four career pathway programs with help from the William S. Hart Union High School District and local business leaders.

The “Pathway to My Future” program

will enable high school students to complete dual enrollment courses offered on their high school campus or at College of the Canyons and earn an associate degree or industry certification in one of four pathways: advanced manufacturing, com-

puter networking, construction technology or legal studies.

“When you bring industry and educators together to talk about equipping students for careers, amazing opportunities for collaboration and innovation are created,” said College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook. “We’re excited to work with the Hart District and experts from our local business community to help students launch careers in high-skill, highwage, and high-growth fields.”

“Collaboration is at the heart of success,” said Hart District Superintendent Vicki Engbrecht. “By maintaining focus on what our partners in business, industry, government, and nonprofit agencies need from the workforce, and through our strong relationship with College of the Canyons, we are able to provide cutting-edge programs in pathways that lead to competitive careers in Santa Clarita and beyond.”

CAREER PATHWAYS PROGRAMS •

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING: Includes certificates in: Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD), Computer-Aided Manufacturing, and Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machining.

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COMPUTER NETWORKING: The pathway offers two options: Cisco Certified Network Associate or Network Administrator (CCNA) or Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) Systems Administrator.

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CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGIES: Students will learn the core skills and knowledge required for employment in construction management. They will have a four-year university transfer option as well.

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LEGAL STUDIES: This pathway offers associate degrees in Administration of Justice or Paralegal Studies. The Administration of Justice pathway focuses on the study of law enforcement in the United States with the primary emphasis on California law. The Paralegal Studies pathway curriculum prepares students for positions as paralegals and legal assistants.

MEETING THE CHALLENGES OF A CHANGING WORLD...

TOGETHER!

The Chancellor’s Circle is a partnership between College of the Canyons and a diverse group of businesses, community members, non-profit groups, government leaders and others who are committed to strengthening our community – by actively supporting a strong community college. The underlying tenet of the Chancellor’s Circle is the strong belief that by working together we can add value to a community college education, provide support for creative and innovative programs that enrich the educational experience of students, and provide need- ed workforce skills that will strengthen and sustain our economy – that we can achieve, by working together, much more than we can by working alone.

Please consider joining us!

• Call the College of the Canyons Foundation at (661) 362-3435 • Visit canyonsfoundation.org and click the Support Groups button VISIONARY UCLA Health, Santa Clarita

LEADER AT&T Boston Scientific - Lisa Welker-Finney Honda Performance Development, Inc. Mark Jenkins and Roxie Ramey Elliott & Judith Wolfe Family Trust

ADVOCATE Aerospace Dynamics International Dr. Jerry L. Buckley Bradley J. Kirst D.D.S., Inc. Gary and Diana Cusumano Dr. Susan Komsky & Mr. Martin Fruitman Tim and Holly John and Janice Hoskinson Math Support Services, Inc. Jim and Jill Mellady

Mitzi and Randy Moberg Mortensen Law, Tax, Trust & Estate Attorneys, P.C. Dr. Skip Newhall NE Systems, Inc. - Ed Padilla Newhall Escrow Company - Steve Corn Kirk and Ana Palmer Reyes Winery - Robert Reyes Shepard Insurance Agency Lloyd Sreden, CPA

Southern California Edison - Anna Frutos Sanchez Dr. Dianne and Mr. Roger Van Hook Wells Fargo Dennis Witzel & Sheila Chovan

LIFETIME MEMBERS Lou and Rita Garasi Tom and Colleen Lee

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MEASURE M continued from page 12 built out with an assortment of state-ofthe-art and architecturally striking buildings whose form has nevertheless followed function. Perhaps the most visible at the Valencia campus is the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center. The center has dramatically improved access to higher education by housing bachelor’s, master’s, credential, and certificate programs from five partner universities.

CULINARY ARTS

The most recently completed Measure M-funded projects include the College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education and Canyons Hall, both of which opened at the Valencia campus in early 2015.

While not listed in the Educational and Facilities Master Plan, a culinary education facility emerged as a high priority in recent years as the program gained prominence and grew – despite not having a permanent home. The 12,200square-foot culinary facility’s $10 million cost was funded by a combination of bid savings from previous construction projects, Measure M bond proceeds, and capital fundraising campaigns in both the community and among college staff.

Nearly 700 community members contributed to the fundraising campaign, and fully 97 percent of College of the Canyons employees donated to the project.

CANYONS HALL

Then there’s Canyons Hall, the Center for Student Services and Community Engagement. Costing approximately $17.1 million, the 46,000-square-foot building serves as a one-stop shop for student services and a centralized location for key administrative offices.

Other recent Measure M-funded projects include the Applied Technology Education Center, the first permanent facility to be built at the Canyon Country campus, and the dramatic expansions of both Mentry Hall and the Library at the Valencia campus.

Measure M funding helped finance the construction of the culinary arts facility (above), Canyons Hall (below left) and The Learning Center (below right).

The Library expansion also provided an expansive, state-of-the-art home to the popular and heavily utilized TLC (The Learning Center).

As a key component that has driven the college’s recent progress, Measure M will far exceed its original $160 million

“College of the Canyons has been very mindful and extremely diligent about delivering on the promises of Measure M.” – Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook

valuation – and save taxpayers money in the process – because the college has maximized every bond-issued dollar by leveraging other resources. The bond au-

thorization’s actual value is now in the neighborhood of $303 million because of earned interest and state matching funds. Moreover, the college has capitalized on market conditions by refunding bonds to reduce the number of years of taxpayer payments.

“College of the Canyons has been very mindful and extremely diligent about delivering on the promises of Measure M,” Dr. Van Hook said. “With meticulous planning and oversight, we’ve exceeded those promises by leveraging Measure M bond funds to achieve the absolute maximum value possible as we build the best community college ever imagined.”

For more information about Measure M, including Citizens Oversight Committee meetings, agendas, financial reports and audits, visit www.canyons.edu and click “Measure M Oversight” in the “About Canyons” drop-down menu.

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INSPIRATION continued from page 11 the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook.

While most students attend college to earn a degree with the hope of launching a career or enhancing their skillset in order to climb the corporate ladder, Doreetha came to COC with the simple goal of bettering herself.

Surrounded by students typically ranging in age from 18 to 24, Daniels was without question an outlier. As a result, she had to overcome a number of associated challenges on her educational journey.

Seemingly routine tasks, such as driving to school and traversing the campus, took considerably more effort to coordinate for Daniels than the average student.

In the classroom, other challenges presented themselves – namely the necessity of computer literacy in order to complete modern college courses. Daniels also experienced issues related to hearing class lectures and keeping pace with other students.

PERSEVERANCE PAYS OFF

But she persevered, even when that meant venturing into the often-dreaded arena of college-level math and statistics courses. “It’s been 63 years since I’ve taken algebra even,” Daniels said. “But I’ve learned a lot.”

Recognizing these challenges, Daniels simply worked harder. Twice a week, she could be found studying and doing homework at the campus’ TLC – all before class even started.

Described as “one of the most dedicated and hardworking students in the class,” Daniels passed the statistics course in the fall of 2014 and began her final semester this past spring.

Along the way she completed a 1-unit internship in the Counseling Department – again routinely arriving 20 minutes early each day to begin completing her assigned tasks.

She also formed some lasting friendships.

“Doreetha is a living testament to the say-

Daniels (above, center) earned her associate degree at age 99. At right, she celebrates with her counselor, Liz Shaker (left), and staff and administrators from the Canyon Country campus.

ing, ‘If there is a will, there is a way,’ ” said counseling faculty member Liz Shaker, who helped Daniels navigate the process of fulfilling her graduation requirements. “Her desire to get out of bed each day and come to school and face the challenges in and outside of the classroom inspired us all. She is truly an amazing woman who has impacted my life and I feel so fortunate that I was able to experience her journey alongside her.”

Daniels’ story is an example of the type of unbridled ambition that is all too rare in today’s world.

A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION

Since arriving at the college in 2009, she has served as a continued source of inspiration to students, college staff and community members of all ages.

Shortly before graduating, she took the opportunity to reflect on the importance of education by speaking to some of her fellow students as part of a Career and Life Planning course at the college.

“It seems like the iPhones in their lap are sometimes more important to students than what’s going on in the classroom,” Daniels said. “I think somebody needs to say something or something needs to happen to show the younger ones how special and unique their opportunity to learn is.”

By earning her degree and graduating, Daniels did just that.

also served as an officer for the COC Honors Club, working with adviser Lisa Malley since shortly after she came to the college. She also served as a member of the Honors Steering Committee during her final year at COC. Henry will be a double major in linguistics and computer science, and Russian language and literature.

In fact, it was UCLA’s Russian Flagship program, which enables students to achieve professional-level competence in Russian through studies both domestic and abroad, that first attracted Henry to becoming a Bruin. She studied abroad in Russia on the U.S. Department of State's NSLI-Y program in 2012.

Henry credits the resources available

at COC with making her dream a reality.

In addition to TAP, the help she received from the Financial Aid Office was critical to her success.

By working closely with the staff to secure Pell Grants and loans, Henry completed her coursework and was able to cover her living expenses.

As she leaves COC for UCLA, Henry says it’s the beginning of much more than a new chapter in her academic career.

“The opportunities here are just so different than at home – it seems like everyone you meet from that area who left was poor and is leaving to go somewhere else,” Henry said.

“I didn’t just move to go to school here, I see myself starting a life as well.”

UCLA continued from page 9 and be someone, but they were a little nervous about me moving across the country by myself. Still, they understood the opportunities in California.”

After two years of hard work, perseverance and faith in her academic direction, Henry’s dream finally came full circle.

Now 20, she is a confident transfer student at UCLA. “Cassidy is a special person with an incredibly strong work ethic,” said Patty Robinson, dean of the social science and business division and acting coordinator of COC Honors. “Her story of what she did to get here and how persistent she’s been is remarkable.”

Henry worked with Robinson for TAP, as well as the Honors Program. Henry

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Santa Clarita Community College District 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91355 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Michael D. Berger Bruce D. Fortine

Michele R. Jenkins

Joan W. MacGregor Steven D. Zimmer

Avneet Ghotra, Student Trustee CHANCELLOR

Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook

THE NEXT LEVEL Cougar Athletes Transfer to Four-Year Campuses SOFTBALL

WOMEN'S GOLF

MEN’S SOCCER

Milana Casillas — UC San Diego Lauren Anderson — Miami of Ohio Kaitlyn Shreves — Boise State

Andrea Webster, University of Northwestern Ohio

Tom Pugliese — Fisher College Jonathan Noriega — Cal Poly Pomona Jesus Pescador — McPherson College

BASEBALL JC Cloney — University of Arizona Collin Dudley — Abilene Christian University, Texas

TRACK & FIELD Dominique Dowell — UC Riverside Sike Azu-Irondi — UC Santa Barbara Mikala Fairchild — The Master’s College

WOMEN’S SOCCER Elise Wassner — University of Hawaii at Manoa Jennifer Mendez — University of Hawaii at Hilo Anabell Gonzalez — University of Hawaii at Hilo Jennifer Brown — CSU Dominguez Hills Kelsey Sherry — CSU Monterey Bay

MEN'S GOLF Matt Murray — San Jose State University Sam Sloman — University of Miami Edouard Fiszel — Menlo College

VOLLEYBALL Serena LeDuff — Southern Arkansas University Kaitlyn Reiner — Southern Arkansas University Lauren Underwood — Newberry College Keirstyn Anderson — Metropolitan State University of Denver

MEN’S BASKETBALL Coley Apsay — San Francisco State University Riley Honaker — Chico State University Brodric Smith — Fisher College Ricardo Greaves — University of Mobile Tullio Parry — Tabor College Brenden Otero — Bellevue University

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Nayiri Aslanian — Texas A&M International University Jordan Oster — Pacific University

CROSS COUNTRY Ashton Garcia — UC Irvine Grant Stromberg — Cal Poly SLO

FOOTBALL EJ DellaRipa — Vanderbilt University Tim White — Arizona State University Tony Dawson — Houston Baptist University Zach Kelley — Coastal Carolina University Austin Murillo — Coastal Carolina University Eric Kreitz — UC Davis Anthony Fowler — Illinois State University Corey Lee — Montana Northern University Westly Johnson — University of Sioux Falls Wyatt Whitham — University of Saint Mary (Kansas) Cory McManus — Bethany College Nate Mitogo — West Texas A&M University Kristain Megowan — Southeastern Louisiana University Loni Fonua — Minot State University Kent Ingram — University of Saint Mary (Kansas) Cash Barden — Montana Tech