Breaking News, Winter 2016

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE SLATED MARCH 12 Page 3

MEASURE M REPORT TO COMMUNITY Page 5

news BREAKING

WINTER 2016

COMING TO THE PAC

TAO: SEVENTEEN SAMURAI Page 4

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS • MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE SINCE 1969

STATE HONORS STUDENT SUCCESS PROGRAM Community College Leadership Commends College of the Canyons’ Innovative Student-Learning Strategy

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ollege of the Canyons received back-toback statewide recognition for achieving success and equity goals for students.

The California Community Colleges Board of Governors recognized the college’s “Accelerate Your Dreams to Reality” project in January with an Exemplary Program Award honorary mention. Two months earlier, the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office commended the program by presenting the college with the Chancellor’s Student Success Award, which was given to only two colleges in 2015.

The “Accelerate Your Dreams to Reality” project is credited with helping improve

math and English course completion rates and enhancing student success. The Chancellor’s Office commended the college’s innovative approach of condensing remedial coursework and enhancing completion rates – saving students time and money in the process.

The Exemplary Program Award was announced Jan. 20 by California Community Colleges Board of Governors President Geoffrey L. Baum during the board’s monthly meeting in Sacramento.

“These innovative programs exemplify the best in California community colleges,” Baum said. Honorees were selected based on SEE STUDENT SUCCESS ON PAGE 2

CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY COLLEGES CHANCELLOR BRICE HARRIS (RIGHT) PRESENTS THE 2015 STUDENT SUCCESS AWARD TO (FROM LEFT) ENGLISH DEPARTMENT CHAIR JUAN BURIEL, MATH PROFESSOR KATHY KUBO, ENGLISH PROFESSOR MARY PETERSEN, MATH DEPARTMENT CHAIR JOE GERDA AND CHANCELLOR DR. DIANNE G. VAN HOOK.

ENGAGING ENDEAVOR Civic Engagement Effort Energized by McKeon Archive, Leadership Forum, Scholars Award

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aying taxes. Volunteering. A career in public service. All of these are examples of civic engagement – the idea of being involved with your community, and working to make it better.

With an eye toward inspiring students to step up and be more involved personally in shaping their community’s future, College of the Canyons has launched its Center for Civic Engagement.

The multi-pronged initiative received a significant boost from retired U.S. Rep. Howard P. “Buck” McKeon. After 11 terms in Congress, including serving as chair of the House Armed Services Committee, McKeon retired in January 2015. He donated his papers and memorabilia to the college to establish the McKeon Archive, initiated the McKeon Scholars Award, and launched the McKeon Leadership Forum.

The forum is a speaker series aimed at promoting civic engagement and reminding every citizen that a healthy democracy requires personal involvement. Conceived as an engaging, thought-provoking exchange, the forum brings thought leaders from the world of politics, government, the military, and social action together with the community to examine today’s most-pressing issues.

The forum launched with a presentation by Marine Corps Gen. John Kelly, who oversees the implementa-

U.S. REP. HOWARD P. “BUCK” MCKEON (RET.) CHATS WITH MARINE CORPS GEN. JOHN KELLY PRIOR TO THE INAUGURAL MCKEON LEADERSHIP FORUM.

FAST-TRACK PROGRAM ACHIEVES PERFECTION

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he College of the Canyons Fast Track Institute has been recognized by the South Bay Workforce Investment Board for achieving a 100 percent job-placement rate for graduates of its Entry Level Computer Numerical Control Operator and QuickBooks Hands on Computer Training programs.

Both programs – offered by the college through the Centers for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT) and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – were honored with the board’s Outstanding Achievement Award at the organization’s annual awards ceremony late last year.

“Our great success comes through the collaborative efforts of the America’s Job Center of California in Santa Clarita, the SBDC, CACT and in the selection of qualified students and placement support once the training is completed,” said Keri Aaver, director of America’s Job Center of California (formerly the Santa Clarita WorkSource Center).

The Fast Track Institute offers a variety of fast-paced,

College of the Canyons 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91355

SEE ENGAGEMENT ON PAGE 7

Non-Profit Organization US Postage PAID Santa Clarita CA 91355 Permit 56

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Postal Customer

SEE FAST TRACK ON PAGE 6

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • WINTER 2016

MELLADY TO RECEIVE SILVER SPUR Tickets Now Available for March 19 Gala Dinner Celebration

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ith a natural willingness to comlady Direct Marketing, which has grown mit her time, energy and proto become a valuable community asset. fessional expertise to the comThe company was named SCV Business munity’s most vital civic institutions and of the Year by VIA in 2015 and Small non-profit organizations, Jill Mellady has Business of the Year at the SCV Leaderdisplayed her steadfast dedication. So it ship Awards in 2014. is fitting that the College of the Canyons At College of the Canyons, Mellady Foundation will honor her with the 2016 – a former business administration stuSilver Spur Award for Community Service. dent – serves on the COC Foundation’s “Jill serves as an example of the differboard of directors, having remained a ence that one person can make by giving loyal friend to the college throughout her from the heart,” College of the Canyons professional career. From 2009 to 2012 Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook said. she served as foundation board chair, “Her commitment to give back is amazing, helping lead the culinary arts capital and I know her support of College of the campaign and sitting on the Measure M Canyons stems from a desire to create for Citizens Oversight Committee. others the opportunities she experienced as She is a member of the COC Aluma student.” ni Hall of Fame and current chair of the JILL MELLADY Mellady serves on the boards of the Chancellor’s Circle, composed of promSCV Sheriff’s Foundation, SCV Family YMCA and inent community leaders, alumni members and corporaCollege of the Canyons Foundation, as well as executive tions dedicated to the college’s continued success. board of the Valley Industry Association (VIA) and the The 2016 Silver Spur Celebration will take place SatPostal Council Commission for the Sierra Coastal Dis- urday, March 19, at The Sheraton Universal. Festivities trict. She previously served many other organizations. begin at 6 p.m. with music, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, She was named Volunteer of the Year by the Michael with guests able to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city Hoefflin Foundation and has been nominated for SCV lights from the 21st floor Starview Room. The evening Woman of the Year. She is also founder of the SCV Non- will also include dinner and a live auction featuring a seprofit Leadership Committee and is a member of the SCV lection of unique items.

Chamber of Commerce.

For more information, call the College of the CanIn 1986, Mellady and her husband Jim founded Mel- yons Foundation at (661) 362-3737.

News Briefs

PARALEGAL CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY

The Paralegal Studies Program marked its 10th anniversary with a celebration at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center on Oct. 10. Among the some 80 people who attended were some of the program’s students and graduates, as well as Board of Trustees members and college officials. Department Chair Nicole Faudree recognized graduates with some personal stories about their challenges and ultimate achievements, pointing out that paralegal students are much like monarch butterflies because of the great distances they cover to reach their destinations. “I think that is appropriate to describe our students and graduates,” she said. “As I have frequently said, the study of law is a marathon, not a sprint.”

In all, the program has produced 102 graduates.

UNIVERSITY CENTER ADDS ACCOUNTING DEGREE

The University of La Verne has partnered with College of the Canyons to offer a bachelor of arts in accounting program at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center. The program will be offered in an accelerated format as a cohort, with students able to enroll during the spring 2016, summer 2016 and fall 2016 semesters. Classes will meet one evening per week, with two courses to be completed each semester.

The program will provide students with a well-rounded, in-depth understanding of accounting theory and practices, while developing skills in critical thinking, problem solving, decision-making, communication, and the use of cutting-edge technology. Graduates will receive the educational training needed to pursue a wide range of employment opportunities within the accounting industry. For more information, visit Room 203 of the University Center, call (818) 295-6500, or visit cocuniversitycenter.com.

COLLEGE’S CISCO ACADEMY RECEIVES TOP AWARD BOARD OF GOVERNORS PRESIDENT GEOFFREY BAUM (SECOND FROM LEFT) AND VICE PRESIDENT CECILIA ESTOLANO (RIGHT) PRESENT THE EXEMPLARY PROGRAM AWARD TO (FROM LEFT) MATH PROFESSORS JOE GERDA AND KATHY KUBO, ENGLISH DEPARTMENT CHAIR JUAN BURIEL AND DR. DIANNE G. VAN HOOK.

STUDENT SUCCESS FROM PAGE 1

the implementation of programs that demonstrated an ability to “expand student access and engagement, while closing the achievement gap.” In addition to demonstrating a commitment and significant progress toward achieving success and equity goals, the award also recognizes programs that exhibit success in the areas of access, retention, course completion, degree and certificate completion, and transfer.

“These accelerated pathways have led to significant improvement over traditional course sequences and brought about a new way to address the achievement gap,” California Community Colleges Chancellor Brice Harris said. “Thanks to the accelerated classes, success rates have increased not only for all students, but especially for students in underrepresented groups.”

“We are honored to be recognized by the state Chancellor’s Office for our efforts to enhance student success,” College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “Thanks to our dedicated faculty and hard-working administrators, College of the Canyons has one of the highest completion rates in California.

This award highlights their commitment to innovation and excellence, and their focus on always doing what’s best for our students.”

The college implemented two classes – Math 75 and English 96 – that nearly triple students’ chances of completing college-level courses. Math 75 prepares students who are not majoring in fields related to science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) to take college-level statistics. It replaces a two-course sequence of basic algebra and intermediate algebra. And, English 96 replaces a two-course sequence that prepares students for the transfer 100-level curriculum with just a single course.

The success of the college’s acceleration efforts currently benefit more than 5,000 students per year and have resulted in one of the most robust offerings of accelerated math and English courses across the state. In total, students have saved more than 48,000 weeks of remedial instruction and more than $500,000 in tuition costs for remedial courses that do not count toward earn-

Breaking News Winter 2016.indd 2

ing associate degrees.

The idea to combine two courses into one was devised as College of the Canyons faculty reviewed data on how long students took to move from remedial math and English into transfer-level coursework.

Implementing this innovative approach significantly increased success rates for students overall – and dramatically so for underrepresented groups. Data for Math 75 show that it more than doubles a student’s chances of completing a transfer-level math course, with some groups experiencing a six-fold increase in success.

“Our students are much smarter as a result of this new approach, and Math 75 allows the space for them to fully exhibit their talents,” said Joe Gerda, a math faculty member who helped spearhead the acceleration effort.

“I am very proud of what my students accomplish, with the assistance of their very capable classmates.”

College of the Canyons also allows students to enroll in a cohort sequence of classes featuring Math 75 linked to the transfer-level statistics course, in which each course is taught in an eight-week format and with the same instructor. This cohort format has been shown to triple a student’s chances of success when completing the transfer sequence.

English 96 is a rigorous reading and writing course that exposes students to big ideas in a high-challenge, high-support context. Students work through college-level reading and writing assignments, learning the academic and affective skills they need to succeed.

Students who completed the accelerated English course in preparation for freshman composition had almost twice the success rate and eligibility for English 101 than those who completed the traditional two-course English sequence.

Juan Buriel, English department chair and acceleration faculty member, said the sense of accomplishment among students is palpable.

“I experience a powerful sense of fulfillment and hope when, upon completing an acceleration course with me, students invariably realize how the course has facilitated their prompt acquisition of the subject, how the course has saved them time and money,” he said, “as well as how much closer to achieving their educational and/or professional goals this single course has gotten them.”

College of the Canyons’ Cisco Academy has been recognized for providing the best delivery of the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) curriculum in the region. The academy, part of the college’s School of Applied Technologies, received the Academy Curriculum Excellence Award. The award is presented to one educational institution in each region annually for achieving excellence in teaching the curriculum. The Cisco Networking Academy program selects awardees based on student feedback scores and students’ performance on final exams. The college’s CCNP program is the second level of the rigorous Cisco certifications following CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification.

STUDENT AWARDED $2,500 SCHOLARSHIP

College of the Canyons student Carmit Cohen was awarded the 2015 Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Frank Lanza Memorial Scholarship in recognition of her academic success, civic engagement and dedication to establishing a career in the healthcare industry. The $2,500 scholarship honors students nationwide enrolled in registered nursing, respiratory care or emergency medical services associate degree programs. A full-time student and single mother of four, the registered nursing program student hopes to obtain her bachelor’s degree, pursue a master of science degree in nursing, and become a nurse practitioner. Cohen is involved with the Nursing Student National Association and is a member of PTK and the Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honor Society. She hopes to transfer to CSU Northridge or Los Angeles to obtain her bachelor’s degree in nursing.

news BREAKING

Breaking News is published by the College of the Canyons Public Information Office to inform the community about programs, events, issues and accomplishments of the Santa Clarita Valley’s community college. It is distributed to residences, P.O. boxes and businesses within the Santa Clarita Community College District. Advertising is not accepted.

MAIL: College of the Canyons Public Information Office 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91355 EMAIL: pio@canyons.edu

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • WINTER 2016

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE SET FOR MARCH 12

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he annual College of the Canyons Women’s Conference returns this spring to explore healthy lifestyles, well-being and mindset, personal safety, financial wisdom, career assessment, and personal branding.

The event, “It All Starts With You: Healthy Lifestyles and Personal Safety,” is scheduled 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center.

In addition to the topics listed at right, the conference also includes a buffet breakfast, spa-themed luncheon and shopping boutique.

Keynote speaker is actress and Santa Clarita Valley resident Tracey Gold, who shot to fame on the hit TV sitcom “Growing Pains.”

General admission is $35 ($20 for students and college staff) and includes access to all events and activities, as well as a raffle ticket.

Sponsors include Boston Scientific Neuromodulation, Mellady Direct Marketing, Wolf Creek Restaurant & Brewing Co., KHTS AM 1220, and College of the Canyons.

To register, contact the event desk at (661) 362-5254 or womensconference@canyons.edu, or visit visit www.canyons.edu/offices/wc.

CONFERENCE TOPICS

Keynote Speaker TRACEY GOLD

• Personal Safety – Maintaining personal safety on campus, at home and in the community; opportunity to become first-aid and CPR certified.

• Healthy Mindset – Understanding healthy relationships; preventing risk-taking behaviors in teens and young adults; suicide prevention.

• Healthy Lifestyles – Caring for your health during phases of life; affordable nutrition; infusing exercise into your life; timeless beauty; healthy body image.

• Well-Being – Finding time for what you have always wanted to do; achieving and maintaining work/life balance.

• Career & Personal Branding – Financial wisdom; insights on social media personal branding; career interest assessment.

BENEVOLENT CHAMPIONS REMEMBERED Frank Kleeman, 1933-2016

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rank Kleeman, a member of the College of the Canyons Foundation Board of Directors for more than 20 years, died Feb. 5 at the age of 82.

He was a recipient, along with his wife Charlotte, of the college’s Silver Spur Award for Community Service in 2005.

He was Philanthropist of the Year for the Network of California Community College Foundations and SCV Man of the Year in 2002.

“College of the Canyons has lost an amazing friend with Frank’s passing,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “Whether it was starting the Library Associates, chairing the Scholarly Presentation Committee, developing our scholarship program, supporting the performing arts, or tutoring and mentoring students, Frank valued people and relationships. He always left what he was involved with better than he found it.”

Born March 20, 1933, Kleeman grew up in Los Angeles and served in the U.S. Navy, Air Force Reserve and as a Los Angeles County sheriff ’s deputy. He and Charlotte moved to the Santa Clarita Valley in 1965 while he worked as an insurance investigator.

He joined the SCV Boys and Girls Club Board of Directors in 1972 and chaired the club’s 1974 benefit auction.

FRANK KLEEMAN

After attending law school and becoming an attorney, he was named a workers compensation judge and arbitrator in the early 1980s.

He was also involved in the SCV Repertory Theatre, Newhall Redevelopment Committee and Pasadena Playhouse.

Jay Rodgers, 1928-2015

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ames “Jay” Rodgers, a longtime supporter of College of the Canyons and recipient with his wife Joyce of the college’s 2003 Silver Spur Award for Community Service, died June 26 at the age of 86.

A prolific homebuilder, Rodgers and his Monteverde Realty Co. transformed thousands of acres in the Santa Clarita Valley into residential communities, selling more than 5,000 new homes in the process. He never officially retired.

He and Joyce contributed to the construction of the College of the Canyons Library and endowed a generous scholarship to the College of the Canyons Foundation.

“College of the Canyons has lost a true friend and passionate believer in the transformative power of education on people’s lives,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “Whether it was helping us build state-of-the-art educational facilities or making sure students have the financial resources they need to succeed, Jay was always there to help make great things happen.”

Born Nov. 5, 1928, in Omaha, Neb., Rodgers moved with his parents to California in the late 1930s. He attended Los Angeles High School. After building tract homes in the San Fernando Valley

JAY RODGERS

during his early career, he recognized a similar need in the Santa Clarita Valley.

He began by purchasing 1,000 acres in and around Plum Canyon and developing his first neighborhood.

He was also involved in many local charities, most notably the SCV Boys & Girls Club.

WE HAVE YOUR DEGREE PROGRAM! GET YOUR BACHELOR’S OR MASTER’S DEGREE RIGHT HERE!

All of the programs listed here are offered by a variety of excellent universities at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, conveniently located on the Valencia campus of College of the Canyons. We’ve taken the long commute to distant campuses out of the equation, making it more convenient than ever for you to get that degree you’ve been dreaming about. Your degree is waiting!

INFORMATION (661) 362-5474

www.cocuniversitycenter.com

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Brandman University

Cal State Northridge

BACHELOR’S DEGREES

MASTER’S DEGREES

Applied Studies Computing Technologies Criminal Justice Legal Studies Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice Psychology Social Science Social Work

MASTER’S DEGREES

Public Administration Social Work

National University BACHELOR’S DEGREES Nursing Paralegal Studies Sport Psychology

MASTER’S DEGREES Psychology, Marriage & Family Therapy Emphasis Psychology, MFT & Pro. Clinical Counseling Emphasis Criminal Justice

CERTIFICATE OR AUTHORIZATION Autism Spectrum Disorder

Cal State Bakersfield BACHELOR’S DEGREES Communications Sociology

CERTIFICATE

Applied Behavior Analysis

University of La Verne

Child Development Liberal Studies Organizational Management

MASTER'S DEGREES

Business Administration Educational Counseling Educational Leadership Leadership Management Special Education School Psychology

CREDENTIALS

Mid-Moderate Preliminary Education Specialist Preliminary Administrative Pupil Personnel Services Single-Subject/Multiple-Subject Teaching

CERTIFICATE

CLAD/CTEL, M.Ed. Special Emphasis

BACHELOR’S DEGREES Accounting Business Administration

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • WINTER 2016

COMING TO THE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

VIBRANT DRUMMING, COUNTRY HITS & MORE A

variety of powerful acts will join the lineup of college and community productions to round out the 2015-16 season at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons.

Among them is the stunningly powerful Japanese drumming group TAO, which brings explosive taiko drumming, innovative choreography, contemporary costumes and athletic bodies together in “Seventeen Samurai” on Sunday, March 13. Japan’s greatest drumming group, TAO has performed before 6.5 million people in 22 countries and still manages to perform more than 200 shows a year in its native country.

The popular Air Force Band of the Golden West returns Monday, March 14. A perennial audience favorite, the concert band has collaborated with some of America’s leading conductors, receiving enthusiastic critical acclaim as one of the premier musical organizations of its kind.

Best of all, this show is absolutely free, so arrive early to grab your seats. It’s first come, first served.

The College of the Canyons Theatre Department presents “Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead” March 18 to 26. This “unauthorized parody” of the classic comic strip “Peanuts” imagines its characters as teenagers exploring adult themes such as eating disorders, searching for one’s identity and teen violence.

Are you ready for the 2016 Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival? We can’t think of a better way to kick it off than by seeing country music great John Michael Montgomery on Sunday, April 17. From “Life’s a Dance” to “I Can Love You Like That” to “Rope the Moon,” Montgomery is the dimpled smile and smooth voice behind some of country music’s biggest hits.

Tickets for these and many more shows are on sale now at the box office, online at CanyonsPAC.com, or by phone at (661) 362-5304.

The Performing Arts Center is located at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road (at College Circle).

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • WINTER 2016

MEASURE

M REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

THIS ARCHITECTURAL RENDERING DEPICTS THE PLANNED 24,000-SQUARE-FOOT SCIENCE CENTER AT THE CANYON COUNTRY CAMPUS. IT WILL BE THE SECOND PERMANENT BUILDING AT THE CAMPUS, WHICH OPENED IN 2007.

ATTENTION TURNS TO CANYON COUNTRY Independent Audit Confirms Bond Measure Spending Compliance for Ninth Consecutive Year

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he Santa Clarita Community College District’s Measure M Citizens Oversight Committee met recently to receive an update on facilities development at College of the Canyons and to accept the results of an independent audit of the bond funds.

The nine-member committee, which ensures the $160 million in bonds approved by voters in 2006 are appropriately spent, heard a presentation from Jim Schrage, assistant superintendent/vice president of facilities planning, operations, and construction at the college, at its January 19 meeting.

With the completion of the Canyons Hall student services facility, and the College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education, the college’s 2012-17 master plan for Valencia campus construction is largely complete, Schrage said. The new comprehensive master plan currently under development will guide the development of educational

programs and facilities for 2016 to 2021 at the Valencia and Canyon Country campuses.

Already under way for the Canyon Country campus are architectural plans for a 24,000-square-foot Science Center that will provide eight labs and a 75-seat lecture hall. This will be the second permanent building to be constructed at the campus, which opened in 2007 with modular facilities.

This much-needed facility will increase the number of lab classes offered, and help students move more quickly into well-paying jobs in burgeoning health and science fields.

Construction is expected to start in 2017.

And, by next fall, students at the Canyon Country campus can expect to see 275 lighted parking spaces made available, Schrage said.

Also on the committee’s agenda was the review and acceptance of audits on expenditures related to Measure M.

SEE MEASURE M ON PAGE 6

THE NEW SCIENCE CENTER WILL FEATURE OUTDOOR CLASSROOM/LAB SPACE.

PROJECTS UPDATE

MENTRY HALL EXPANSION

LOCATION: VALENCIA CAMPUS STATUS: COMPLETED 2010 SQUARE FOOTAGE: 28,000 (78,237 TOTAL) COST: $12.3 MILLION This expansion, a design-build project completed in less than a year, added more instructional space, including two computer labs, a large lecture room, 11 classrooms, a 2-D drawing classroom, a life/drawing classroom, two conference rooms and 12 offices.

APPLIED TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION CENTER COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS INSTITUTE FOR CULINARY EDUCATION

LOCATION: VALENCIA CAMPUS STATUS: COMPLETED 2015 SQUARE FOOTAGE: 12,208 COST: $10 MILLION The permanent home for the culinary arts program lends an elegant sophistication to a building that serves both educational and social functions.

It includes a Show Kitchen, Savory Kitchen, Sweets Kitchen, Wine Studies Room and Culinary Lab.

CANYONS HALL: CENTER FOR STUDENT SERVICES AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

LOCATION: VALENCIA CAMPUS STATUS: COMPLETED 2015 SQUARE FOOTAGE: 46,370 COST: $17.1 MILLION This facility features a Welcome Center, computer kiosks for students, and a one-stop shop for key services such as Admissions & Records, Financial Aid, Counseling, the Transfer Center, and the Job & Career Center.

Breaking News Winter 2016.indd 5

CANYON COUNTRY CAMPUS

LOCATION: CANYON COUNTRY STATUS: PHASE 1 COMPLETED 2007 SIZE: 70 ACRES COST: $58 MILLION The Canyon Country campus welcomed more than 3,000 students when it opened in 2007, fulfilling the eastern Santa Clarita Valley’s need for convenient access to educational and training programs.

DR. DIANNE G. VAN HOOK UNIVERSITY CENTER

LOCATION: VALENCIA CAMPUS STATUS: COMPLETED 2009 SQUARE FOOTAGE: 110,000 COST: $39.8 MILLION The University Center provides instructional and support space for degree programs offered by Brandman University, California State University Bakersfield, Cal State L.A., Cal State Northridge, University of La Verne and National University. Since 2002, when programs were housed in an interim facility, more than 30,000 students have enrolled in degree, certificate and credential programs. It also houses the TEACH program, Academy of the Canyons and America’s Job Center of California.

LOCATION: CANYON COUNTRY CAMPUS STATUS: COMPLETED 2011 SQUARE FOOTAGE: 10,315 COST: $7.1 MILLION The first permanent building on the the campus houses a variety of educational and career-training programs.

LIBRARY/TLC EXPANSION

LOCATION: VALENCIA CAMPUS STATUS: COMPLETED 2012 SQUARE FOOTAGE: 51,435 (86,606 TOTAL) COST: $15.8 MILLION The expansion provided a spacious home for the TLC (The Learning Center), as well as a larger library featuring a Computer Commons area with 100 student workstations and group-study rooms.

PARKING LOT

LOCATION: CANYON COUNTRY CAMPUS STATUS: COMPLETED 2010 COST: $1 MILLION

TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES LOCATION: DISTRICT-WIDE STATUS: COMPLETED COST: $1 MILLION

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • WINTER 2016

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

BROADWAY BECKONS

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College of the Canyons Theatre Alum Daniel Stewart Makes His Debut on the Big Stage

t was clear from an early age that former College of the Canyons theatre student Daniel Stewart was destined for the stage. Throughout his life he had seen the theatre business up close. He had an itch for it.

Now, after many auditions and roles throughout Southern California and at theatre classes at College of the Canyons, he’s made it to Broadway.

In September, he began a 17-week run of performances of Deaf West Theatre’s “Spring Awakening” in New York City.

Playing the voice of Ernst and performing piano, Stewart makes his Broadway debut under the bright lights of the Brooks Atkinson Theater.

Stewart had a great place to start too.

His parents ran a theater, and he was there while his parents worked with actors on productions. Rehearsals, auditions, all of it. Stewart was around to see much of what went on in the theater since he can remember.

“I was literally learning to walk by holding myself to the sides of the stage and walking along,” Stewart said.

Growing up, Stewart was drawn to performing. He was already around his parents who were actors. Stewart says music and singing were a big part of his and his family’s life. “[My parents] would sing me to sleep, we would sing harmonies in the car together,” he said.

Stewart was hooked early on. Soon, he would beg his parents to put him on stage and give him a shot. His parents were cautious, however. As actors themselves, they understood the grueling, and sometimes cruel, nature of the acting business.

“It was really something that had to be my choice and wasn’t something that wasn’t thrust upon me,” he said. “They would never purposely try to push me toward being an actor.”

By his mid-teens, he decided he would take a chance

DANIEL STEWART

and dedicate himself to the craft. It was seeing a friend perform in a production of “The Lieutenant of Inishmore” that inspired him to go for it.

At age 17, he started to audition for roles at small theatre companies around Los Angeles. He would act and perform roles but it wasn’t until he read for a part in a production of “Master Harold...and the Boys” that he felt like he needed a part.

“I was hell-bent … I worked my butt off for a month and a half of auditions and four callbacks and finally I booked the part,” he said.

During this time, he was also taking classes at COC with Susan Hinshaw and Paul Wickline. Stewart said their lessons helped him understand the essence of performing and acting.

“I felt so invigorated by their lessons and they were the first people who were being hard on me for the first time. I really needed that,” he said.

Acting is more than just saying words from a page to an audience. It takes honesty and risk, as Stewart says, to invest oneself into a character and to express the emotions to tell the playwright’s story.

Stewart credits Hinshaw and Wickline for stressing that to him.

“They knew the parts of me that I was hiding. … They were pushing me to find further truths and that was the first time anyone had pushed for that from me,” he said.

Teachers such as Hinshaw and Wickline don’t get the credit they often deserve, he said, adding that he is grateful for his experience in the COC theatre program.

“Most great actors came out of a place where they worked with people who really mined incredible things out of them,” he said. “Without guidance, the process to getting to those places is truncated and you’re able to get there faster when you have people that are able to inspire, help, teach.”

One of those places where Stewart eventually landed was a bowling alley celebrating a birthday for “Spring Awakening” co-star and Academy Award-winner Marlee Matlin on a warm, steamy August evening.

Stewart recognizes how far he’s come and hopes that the production of “Spring Awakening” inspires others to pursue their goals and dreams.

“I’m just trying to live in the moment and be present for every beautiful second of being in this beautiful city with these people and this creative team and all my friends in New York doing a really beautiful show.

“It’s insane I’m even getting this opportunity right now,” he said. “I just want to keep growing every second.”

COUPLE TURNS LOVE FOR EDUCATION INTO LASTING GIFT

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hen Bill and Darleen Lyons were considering ways to pass on their love of education and opportunities for students at College of the Canyons, they decided the best option was to ensure their passion for the Mathematics, Engineering and Science Achievement program would live on beyond their years.

They decided to make their priority a permanent one by naming COC’s MESA program and the School of Mathematics, Sciences and Health Professions beneficiaries of their final estate.

“Bill and Darleen are true humanitarians,” said Omar Torres, dean of the School of Mathematics, Sciences and Health Professions. “Their primary goal

MEASURE M FROM PAGE 5

For the ninth year in a row, the audit confirmed the college spent funds as authorized in the bond approved by voters, and did so in compliance with all laws and accountability measures set forth in Proposition 39, the California Constitution, and mandated

by California education code. The audit also verified that bond funds were not spent on general administration or operational costs.

“These results demonstrate that College of the Canyons has done an outstanding job managing the proceeds from Measure M bonds,” said Nick Lentini, chair of the district’s Measure M Citizens Oversight Committee. “The community can be assured that the college has maximized the value of Measure M funds to ensure students have access to the highest quality learning environments and technology.”

Vavrinek, Trine, Day & Co. LLP, conducted both financial and performance audits, covering the fiscal year ended on June 30, 2015. The firm issued an unmodified opinion, the best rating possible. The auditor’s report noted no adjustments, audit findings, questioned costs, or instances of noncompliance associated with the bond — further confirming that all funds have been

Breaking News Winter 2016.indd 6

of the scholarship and their legacy gift is to empower students and propel them toward successful careers in the STEM fields.”

Their gift will also extend well past their current generosity to MESA students. The Lyonses have provided book scholarships to COC students majoring in math and science fields over the past eight years and have helped pay for 188 students’ physics and calculus textbooks to date.

Since establishing the book scholarship in 2007, their support and impact on students’ academic future has been immeasurable for students, MESA Director Dr. Eric Lara said, adding: “We have transferred 275 students to top-tier universities all across the country

spent appropriately.

“We’re very proud of our ongoing record of consistent financial management that is reflected in the audits of our bond funds,” said Sharlene Coleal, the college’s assistant superintendent/vice president of business services.

Local voters approved the $160 million general obligation bond Measure M, in November 2006. The District has $20 million in bonds to be issued at a future date, after issuing $80 million in bonds in May 2007, $35 million in bonds in May 2012, and $25 million in bonds in September 2014.

“Measure M has greatly benefitted our local community, with millions of dollars infused into the local economy, and jobs created through a decade of construction projects,” COC Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “And, with funding from our own local bond measure, we have been able to qualify for state construction funds that enabled us to enhance the impact of Measure M and build state-of-the art facilities that prepare people for well-paying jobs in growing fields.”

By supplementing the bond funds with earned interest and roughly $89.4 million in state match and other sources of construction funding, an estimated $ 261.4 million in projects are planned.

The 2014-15 audit confirms approximately $152 million in resources from the

since the establishment of the book scholarship by Mr. and Mrs. Lyons.”

For information on how to leave a planned gift, visit www.cocfoundation.com or call Murray Wood at (661) 362-3433.

first three bond issuances, which also includes earned interest and net premiums on the bonds. Of that amount, more than $126 million has been expended on authorized bond projects, leaving the district with a Measure M bond project fund balance of $25.8 million as of June 30, 2015.

Since its passage, Measure M bond funds have been used on a wide variety of major facilities projects and campus expansions at the college, including the construction of the Canyon Country campus and the creation of the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center.

Other projects include the construction of the Applied Technology Education Center (ATEC) at the Canyon Country campus, the dramatic expansions of Mentry Hall and the Library/TLC (The Learning Center) at the Valencia campus, and the recently completed Canyons Hall student services/ administration building and College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education.

“We look forward to building on this foundation of success and moving forward with additional permanent buildings at the Canyon Country campus, along with needed upgrades to decades-old facilities at the Valencia campus,” Van Hook said. “As we finalize our new master plan to guide future development, we will be working to identify and acquire the funding necessary to make our plans become reality.”

FAST TRACK FROM PAGE 1

job preparation courses that teach entrylevel job skills for in-demand local jobs.

“The college’s short-term job training programs are focused on allowing the unemployed to quickly acquire new skill sets currently in demand by local employers,” said Joe Klocko, dean of the Economic Development Division at the college.

“To be recognized by the South Bay Workforce Investment Board for 100 percent placement on these two programs is great for the college,” Klocko said, “but, more importantly, great for the individuals who began their new careers.”

Fast Track courses take only a few months to complete, with participants earning a recognized professional certificate in their particular area of study or a list of skill competencies they can share with potential employers.

Courses in the program are typically offered as intensive day and evening classes held at several Santa Clarita locations, including both College of the Canyons campuses.

For more information, please visit canyons.edu/fasttrack.

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • WINTER 2016

LOCAL RESTAURANT OWNERS, MANAGERS AND CHEFS TOUR THE STATE-OF-THE-ART COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS INSTITUTE FOR CULINARY EDUCATION.

RESTAURANT PROS TOUR CULINARY CENTER

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ocal restaurant owners, managers and chefs got a taste of the new College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education when the College of the Canyons Foundation and Culinary Arts Department hosted a special reception and tour at the state-of-the-art facility.

“With more than 400 students enrolled in culinary courses, there is a tremendous opportunity for the college to partner and collaborate with local restaurants to help meet their kitchen and front-of-house needs,” said Cindy Schwanke, chef and chair of the Culinary Arts Department.

Among those who attended were former culinary arts students who graduated

from the program before the new facility was completed. “I wish I could come back now,” said former student Clayton Ryser, now a sous chef at Valencia Country Club.

“It came a long way from cooking in an old restaurant,” Ryser said. “This is really state-of-the-art stuff.” Before the culinary arts facility opened, the program was housed in former restaurants in Castaic and Valencia.

Lee Atelli, executive chef at The Paseo Club, said students and the community benefit greatly from the culinary arts program and its seasoned, experienced faculty.

“You’ve got instructors here who are fresh

out of the industry – and that’s important to me as a student,” Atelli said.

The 12,200-square-foot building, anchored by a central glass-enclosed dining room where students can demonstrate their newly honed culinary skills, was revealed during a ribbon-cutting ceremony last April.

The new, specifically designed home for the culinary arts program lends an elegant sophistication appropriate for a building that will host both educational and social functions.

The building’s many amenities include a Show Kitchen, Savory Kitchen, Sweets Kitchen, Banquet Kitchen, Wine Studies Room and Culinary Lab.

The 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 supported by both the community and college staff, with nearly 700 community members contributing to the capital campaign to build and equip the facility, and 97 percent of College of the Canyons employees donating to the fundraising campaign.

The new facility enables the college’s premier culinary arts program – one whose quality is comparable to, but far less expensive than, programs offered by private institutions – to expand and thrive.

A FAMILY AFFAIR

Family’s Common Bonds are Higher Education & Success

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or the Cespedes family, College of the Canyons is the one constant on varying paths to success. Sisters Ivana, 19; Belicia, 18; Briana, 16; and Giana, 15, all attended College of the Canyons and went on to distinguish themselves in a variety of fields.

The sisters were home-schooled, which enabled them to graduate high school early and get a jump-start on college.

For Briana, a high school graduate at 13, she knew College of the Canyons was the right fit.

“Being that most universities would not accept me because of my age, nor did I have the maturity to begin university, COC was a perfect first step because it introduced me to the college arena and let me begin general education requirements at an affordable price,” she said.

With encouragement from her parents to attend College of the Canyons because of its dedicated professors and helpful counselors, Giana, the youngest of the four, felt confident about her decision to attend the college as well.

The Extended Opportunity Programs and Service (EOPS) program and the Gamma Beta Phi honor society both played key roles in the Cespedes sisters’ academic careers. The sisters experienced significant support, with EOPS providing priority registration and assistance with purchasing textbooks, and Gamma Beta Phi offering them scholarship opportunities.

Plus, they had each other. Their shared college ex-

SISTERS IVANA, BELICIA, BRIANA, AND GIANA ALONG WITH THEIR PARENTS AND LITTLE SISTER.

perience allowed them to study together and learn from one another. And share rides. “I also needed someone to drive me for the longest time, so that was a plus as well,” Briana said.

Although most students their age are still in high school, or just starting college, the sisters have completed their studies at College of the Canyons and embarked on the next steps in their educational or professional careers.

Giana is studying American Sign Language (ASL) at the college and is working toward a degree in ASL

interpreting. Having obtained her bachelor’s degree in business, Briana is in her first year at Northwestern California University School of Law. Belicia, an accountant, works with high-end clients such as the Los Angeles Lakers. The oldest of the four, Ivana, is working toward a doctorate in nutrition science and a Ph.D. in health research.

Aside from their shared quest for knowledge, their common bond is College of the Canyons, which provided them all with a solid foundation and a lasting inspiration to succeed.

ENGAGEMENT FROM PAGE 1

MARINE CORPS GEN. JOHN KELLY SPEAKS DURING THE MCKEON LEADERSHIP FORUM.

Breaking News Winter 2016.indd 7

tion of U.S. military strategy in Latin America and the Caribbean as head of U.S. Southern Command. The four-star general has more than 40 years of service as a Marine, beginning as an enlisted man. He spoke at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons on Nov. 6, reminding participants that civic engagement is every American’s responsibility – and among the unique characteristics that define our nation and tie us together as Americans.

“We all need to reconnect to what makes America so extraordinary. To rediscover why we should be proud of who we are, what we stand for, to be part of something bigger to strive for something better, but to strive together,” the general said. “We can find this very easy in our county and our society and that is through service.”

At the forum, Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook announced the establishment of the McKeon Scholars Award, which was seeded with a contribution from the congressman. The scholarship, administered by the College of the Canyons Foundation, will defray the costs of college education, including tuition, textbooks and living expenses. It will be awarded annually to students who intend to pursue careers in public service or

civic engagement. The first recipients will be named in early 2016.

“From the local school board, to City Hall, to the halls of Congress, Chairman McKeon has focused on creating opportunities for others throughout his career,” Van Hook said. “Among his chief priorities in retirement is ensuring America’s next generation of leaders has the means to obtain higher education and pursue their dreams of public service. College of the Canyons is proud to partner with him in this critical endeavor.”

The college’s library staff is working to organize the congressman’s papers and make them available to the public in hard copy and online. During his 22 years in Congress, Chairman McKeon’s leadership was evident across a broad spectrum of issues. From blocking a dump in the Santa Clarita Valley’s pristine Elsmere Canyon, to prioritizing defense spending during the War on Terror, his influence shaped policy decisions that dominated both local and national headlines.

The documents and memorabilia associated with his political career represent a rich resource to scholars, researchers, and students studying public policy, political science, and leadership. The archive will take users beyond headlines and provide an illuminating glimpse at the process of democracy.

An early selection of documents is available at canyons.edu/Offices/Library/Pages/McKeon-Collection. aspx.

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • WINTER 2016

8

CANYONS CLAIMS 2ND SUPREMACY TITLE

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he College of the Canyons Athletics Department earned its second consecutive Western State Conference Supremacy Award for its collective performance in 2014-15.

The Cougars won six conference championships, with women’s volleyball, men’s cross country and women’s golf clinching titles in the fall of 2014, and women’s soccer, women’s track & field and men’s golf winning titles in the spring of 2015. Men’s cross country and men’s golf went on to win their respective California Community College Athletic Association titles as well.

“Winning our second consecutive supremacy award is the culmination of hard work, vision, and dedication by the entire COC community,” College of the Canyons Athletic Director Chuck Lyon said.

“When you have the support from the administration and faculty, the determination of a great support staff including trainers, equipment personnel, athletic counseling, athletic administrative staff, and the tireless work of our head coaches and their assistants, this is what can be achieved.”

Dean of Physical Education and Athletics Len Mohney said the achievement is also a great honor for the student-athletes’ achievements in the classroom.

“We’re excited that we can do something like this two years in a row,” Mohney said. “We’ve always been excelling in the classroom, and that’s what the Supremacy Award is all about.”

Teams earn points throughout the year based on their conference ranking and post-season performance. The college finished second overall in total points scored, but led the conference with a 6.5 average across 15 WSC-sponsored sports. Women’s sports tallied 56 points overall, while men’s programs earned 38.

The WSC Supremacy Award has been awarded since the 1980-81 academic year. College of the Canyons is just the fourth college to win the award for at least two consecutive years.

WOMEN’S SOCCER WON ITS FIFTH-STRAIGHT WSC SOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP.

VOLLEYBALL TAKES THIRD AT CHAMPIONSHIP

The Cougars won their first state championship tournament game in college history with a come-from-behind 3-2 victory over Cabrillo College. But they lost a rematch with Cabrillo, ending their season with a third-place finish in the state, a 26-4 season record, and a third-straight WSC South Championship.

KANE NAMED CROSS-COUNTRY COACH OF YEAR

College of the Canyons cross country and track & field head coach Lindie Kane was named 2014-15 California Community College Athletics Association Men’s Cross Country Coach of the Year. It’s her second CCCAA Coach of the Year award.

ATHLETICS ROUNDUP women’s basketball winning its first conference crown since the 2011-12 season. The college’s 16 intercollegiate athletic programs have now won a combined 118 conference titles. The cross country program ended its 2015 season with the men’s and women’s teams running to third-place finishes at the state championships.

WOMEN’S GOLF CLAIMS THIRD PLACE

The women’s golf team finished in third place at the California Community College Athletic Association SoCal Regional Championships at Alisal River Golf Course in Solvang on Nov. 8 and 9.

COLLEGE ADDS FOUR MORE WSC TITLES

College of the Canyons Athletics claimed four more Western State Conference titles in late 2015, with men’s cross country running to its third-straight conference crown, women’s volleyball winning its third-straight WSC South title, women’s soccer winning an unprecedented fifth-straight WSC South championship, and

CROSS COUNTRY’S WALKER WINS STATE TITLE

Sophomore cross country team member Ethan Walker is a state champion for the second time in as many years, thanks to his individual victory at the 2015 Men’s Cross Country Individual State Championship. His performance helped pace a Cougar team that finished in third

place at the statewide meet. Walker also earned a state title as a member of the college’s 2014 State Championship team.

VOLLEYBALL’S BIBLE NAMED ALL-AMERICAN

Freshman outside hitter Emily Bible was named a 2015 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) First Team All-American after a season in which she helped lead the Cougars to a 22-2 regular-season record while ranking first in kills, kills per set, attacks, points and points per set.

VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS, COACH HONORED

On the heels of winning its third straight WSC South title, the volleyball team had nine players earn All-WSC honors, and head coach Lisa Hooper was named Coach of the Year for the third straight year.

SOCCER’S KNEISEL MAKES HER MARK

The College of the Canyons women’s soccer record book has officially been rewritten. Sophomore Marissa Kneisel broke the program’s single-season scoring record of 37 goals with 51 career goals and 127 points.

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 needed 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

VISIONARY

LIFETIME MEMBERS

Crosscountry Mortgage

NE Systems, Inc. – Ed Padilla

UCLA Health, Santa Clarita

Lou and Rita Garasi Tom and Colleen Lee

Gary and Diana Cusu​mano

​Newhall Escrow – Steve Corn

Harold and Jacquie Petersen

Schools First FCU

ADVOCATE

Joe and Kathy Klocko

Shepard Insurance Agency

Alicia Echeverria from Montemayor

Jim and Jill Mellady

Dr. and Dr. Lee Shulman

& Assoc. Inc. at Re/Max of SCV

Mitzi and Randy Moberg

Dr. Dianne and Mr. Roger Van Hook

Dr. Jerry L. Buckley

Mortensen Law, Tax, Trust & Estate Attorneys

Wells Fargo

Bradley J. Kirst D.D.S.

Dr. Skip Newhall

Dennis Witzel and Sheila Chovan

CHAMPION Honda Performance Development

LEADER Boston Scientific - Lisa Welker-Finney Mark Jenkins and Roxie Ramey Elliott and Judith Wolfe

Breaking News Winter 2016.indd 8

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