CLASSES AT HART DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOLS
PARTNERSHIP YIELDS APPRENTICESHIPS
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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS • MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE SINCE 1969
SHORT-TERM CLASSES AVAILABLE NOW
tudents looking for more classes that can be completed during the spring semester need look no further! College of the Canyons is offering a variety of short-term classes throughout March and April. Most classes are available in a traditional classroom setting, while others are delivered online to provide maximum schedule fexibility.
STUDENT SERVES ON ELECTORAL COLLEGE
“The college has expanded the number of traditional and online courses, as well as the number of short-term classes, in an effort to best meet the needs of students and community members,” said Dr. Jerry Buckley, assistant superintendent and vice president, academic affairs. “We understand that students have jobs, families or other respon-
sibilities that can make attending classes a real challenge,” Buckley said. “We are doing our best to be as flexible as possible.” Most of the classes have start dates in mid-April and run until late May or early June. To view available classes, visit www.canyons.edu and click the “We saved your seat” slide, or call (661) 362-3280.
COLOSSAL SUMMER IN WORKS! College of the Canyons is planning a substantial summer session featuring hundreds of core classes that will enable students to get a jump-start on their chosen majors, explore potential academic paths, or fulfill prerequisite requirements.
• NOW – Review class schedule at canyons.edu • APRIL 24 – Registration begins • JUNE 5 – First classes of summer session start
FIRST-YEAR PROMISE TO LAUNCH THIS FALL
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GOING GREEN – Some soggy months have transformed the hills flanking the Valencia campus into a rarely seen viridescent shade. Visible in this view are some recent changes to the campus, such as the new soccer field (to the left of the stadium) and reconfigured parking lots that produced more than 200 additional spaces.
ollege of the Canyons has received a $750,000 state grant to launch First-Year Promise, which will provide increased opportunities for new full-time students by covering all enrollment costs, student fees and campus parking for one year. Students will also receive computer lab printing and vouchers for textbooks and supplies. Some 300 students will benefit when the program launches this fall. College of the Canyons was one of 14 community colleges from a field of 51 applicants to be awarded the California College Promise Innovation Grant from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. “This grant will be instrumental in knocking down the many barriers students face to reach their educational goals,” College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “The First-Year Promise program will not only reduce the financial burden for new full-time students, it will also enhance their ability to succeed and build a foundation for lifelong learning.” SEE PROMISE ON PAGE 6
COLLEGE HOSTS SUMMIT ON NO-COST TEXTBOOKS C
ollege of the Canyons hosted an Open Educational Resources (OER) Summit to promote collaboration of educational resources among 28 California higher education institutions. OERs are teaching and learning materials that have been released in the public domain or under an intellectual property license as a no-cost alternative to costly commercial textbooks. Held at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, the Jan. 31 summit drew administrators, faculty, staff, and students from across the state to learn about how OERs promote student success and to develop a community of practice for OER degrees. “College of the Canyons is committed to helping students and faculty succeed,” said Brian Weston, director of distance and SEE TEXTBOOKS ON PAGE 4
College of the Canyons 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91355
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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS | SPRING 2017
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Employee Training Gets Boost
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he College of the Canyons Employee Training Institute (ETI) received a $548,205 contract from the California Employment Training Panel (ETP) – the 13th such contract awarded to the college. Valid for two years, the reimbursement contract will allow COC to provide worker training to client companies in the Santa Clarita Valley who wish to retain an up-skilled workforce. “This represents over two decades of providing ETP-funded training for local employers,” said John
Milburn, director of ETI, which has administered more than $4 million in ETP funds.
High-Level Training
The contract helps offset costs charged to employers for training. Savings can be up to 75 percent off regular costs utilizing ETP funds. “The ETP is critical to ETI and to the business community, and ultimately to the economy of California,” said John Milburn, ETI director. “Workers are able to get training in high-level training topics such as
Lean Six Sigma, project management, manufacturing skills, supply chain management and other topics.” Unique to California, ETP is a program that is geared toward job creation and job retention through training in an effort to keep California companies competitive and operating within the state. “Manufacturers are considered a ‘priority industry’ and we have many manufacturers here in Santa Clarita Valley that benefit from this program every year,” said Milburn. Info: canyonsecondev.org/eti
MCKEON FORUM
News Briefs
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS EXPLORE CAREERS
Hart District Education Pathway students (above) toured the college Friday, March 17 to learn about career opportunities in education and resources for future educators. They visited the Early Childhood Education Center, where they heard from ECE and TEACH guest speakers, and attended a Future Educators Club meeting whose guest speaker was Josh Randall, Sulphur Springs Union District’s assistant superintendent of personnel.
UNIVERSITY CENTER TO HOLD OPEN HOUSE
Ready to start that bachelor’s or master’s degree program you’ve been putting off? Here’s your chance to get on track. The Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center will hold an open house 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 19 that will give you all the information you need to embark on your next educational journey. Representatives from California State Universities Bakersfield and Northridge, Brandman University, University of La Verne and National University will be there to answer questions. Info: (661) 362-5150 or cocuniversitycenter.com
CANYON COUNTRY CAMPUS STAR PARTY
Save the Date: The Canyon Country campus will hold its next Star Party on Friday, May 5. The popular event is scheduled 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Carl A. Rasmussen Amphitheater. The event will feature a variety of activities, including stargazing. Info: (661) 362-3800 or canyons.edu/ccc
16 MODEL UN TEAM STUDENTS WIN AWARDS
The College of the Canyons Model United Nations team competed with 200 students from 14 colleges at the Long Beach Intercollegiate Model UN Conference on March 11, with 16 College of the Canyons delegates receiving awards. Awarded in the category of Best Research Paper was Harout “Harry” Antonyan; Best Delegate: Mohammad Qayum (tie), Clark Wintle (tie), Tim Smith, and John Perkins; Commendation: Sean Romo, Andres Salazar, Ronald “Ronnie” Lopez, Breanny Andrade, Alexandra “Alex” Martin, and Caleb Lunetta; and Outstanding Delegate: Christian Olmos, Sergio Partida, Mai Do, Amy Mori, and Jonathan Flores.
Retired Air Force Gen. T. Michael Moseley discussed some of the emerging issues the U.S. will encounter in the “world of tomorrow” during the McKeon Leadership Forum at College of the Canyons. Moseley, a 40-year military veteran who served as Air Force chief of staff and member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, offered his views during the second McKeon Leadership Forum on Dec. 2. The forum was a cooperative effort of the college, Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corp. and former U.S. Rep. Howard P. “Buck” McKeon.
New Grant to Help Train Veterans
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he Small Business Development Center hosted by College of the Canyons has received a $25,000 grant from Wells Fargo Bank that will allow it to provide entrepreneurial training and comprehensive one-on-one technical assistance to military veterans and their families. The 2016 West Region Military Grants Program will allow the SBDC to help some 300 individuals. “The program is an opportunity to provide free professional consulting resources and financial/business education through the Small Business Development Center to help improve the economic presence of veterans and their family members while leveraging skills and knowledge obtained in the military into a new or existing business,” SBDC Director Catherine Grooms said.
One of the SBDC’s strategic goals is to reach underserved segments of the population, such as veterans, Grooms added.
Empowering Veterans
“At Wells Fargo, we are dedicated to supporting veterans in obtaining long-lasting, sustainable housing and career transition, as well as providing them with financial education,” said Shaun Sarkissian, vice president and regional banking district manager of Wells Fargo in Santa Clarita. “Through our West Region Military Grants Program, Wells Fargo is proud to support programs like the Small Business Development Center that work to empower veterans and their family members in the Santa Clarita, San Fernando and Antelope valleys.” Serving Northern Los Angeles
County, the SBDC helps potential and existing small business owners address challenges and develop the methods necessary to manage and grow their businesses. “We are deeply gratified for our partnership with Wells Fargo Bank,” said Murray Wood, chief development officer of the college’s foundation. “Over the last 20 years, the Wells Fargo Foundation has become a major funder of the college’s many important initiatives.” The SBDC is the Small Business Administration’s largest service program and provides business and economic development assistance to small businesses owners and entrepreneurs. SBDC locations provide one-on-one professional business consulting at no cost. Training is offered at no or low cost. Info: cocsbdc.org
200-PLUS SPACES ADDED TO PARKING LOTS
More than 200 additional parking spaces were added during a reconfiguration of three parking lots in January. The spaces were added to parking lots 5, 6 and 8 at the Valencia campus, which now offers 3,750 parking spaces to students and staff members. Funded by Measure M – the general obligation facilities bond that voters approved in 2006 – the project included curb reconfiguration, removal of planter areas, light pole relocations, seal coating, and a new striping plan. The reconfiguration is in anticipation of a plan to build a parking structure at Rockwell Canyon Road and Valencia Boulevard. The parking structure, to be funded by Measure E, is expected to begin construction by the end of the year.
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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SPRING 2017 | COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS
It’s Time for College to Offer 4-Year Degrees “I’m so glad College of the Canyons is offering bachelor’s degrees. It’s about time!” That refrain – and hundreds of variations like it – are uttered to me frequently. It happens just about everywhere throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, whether I’m at a fundraising event or standing in line at the supermarket. I have to gently offer a clarification, of course. College of the Canyons confers quite a large number of associate degrees, but the bachelor’s degrees – and master’s degrees, for that matter – are offered at our University Center. Yes, the University Center is located at College of the Canyons, but the degree programs are offered by institutions such as the University of La Verne, Brandman University, Cal State Northridge, Cal State Bakersfield, and National University. I mention this not to point out the common confusion, but to emphasize the collective enthusiasm about bachelor’s degrees being offered at College of the Canyons. It’s an idea that excites the local populace because it’s important to them. As it should be. We created the University Center because it removed significant barriers to higher education. It made earning an advanced degree far more convenient and accessible. Local residents didn’t have many options before the University Center opened in 2002. Since then, 2,804 people have graduated with bachelor’s or master’s degrees. That’s an impressive number of people who have been empowered to grow and to advance their careers. It bodes well too for an untold number of businesses that have benefited from
Viewpoint
Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook
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SOPHOMORE NATALIE FORTMAN WAS ONE OF CALIFORNIA’S 55 ELECTORAL COLLEGE VOTERS DURING THE RECENT PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION.
MOMENTOUS HONOR
College of the Canyons Student Serves as Electoral College Member
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oting in the recent presidential election was especially momentous for College of the Canyons sophomore student Natalie Fortman, not only because she was exercising her right to vote for the first time, but because she was one of California’s 55 electoral voters. The 20-year-old was appointed to the Electoral College by Bryan Caforio, a Democratic nominee for California’s 25th Congressional District. Fortman served as an intern on his campaign. “I was surprised and very honored to be appointed to the Electoral College,” Fortman said. “I had no idea Caforio had the authority to appoint a member to the Electoral College, and I was very humbled when he asked if I would like to do it.” Caforio said he appointed Fort-
man after witnessing her passion for civic engagement. “I was really impressed with her leadership and engagement in the political process,” Caforio said. “It was an easy decision to make for me to give her the opportunity to make her voice heard at the national level.”
Civic Engagement
Fortman would often attend town hall meetings, Caforio recalled, and would ask questions directly to Congressman Steve Knight about issues she cared about. “It is important to the future of our democracy to have young people engaged in the political process,” Caforio said. “That’s exactly the kind of person I wanted to appoint to the position.”
On Dec. 19, Fortman and her family traveled to the State Capitol in Sacramento to take part in a ceremonial proceeding that is as old as the U.S. Constitution itself. Composed of 538 electors, the Electoral College was established by the Founding Fathers to provide elections with stability and leave little room for contested election results. “It was very exciting and inspirational,” Fortman said of the experience, which allowed her to enjoy the Capitol ’s exhibits and architecture. Following an unofficial meeting during which electoral members met each other, she was sworn in as an elector in the Assembly Chamber. The hour-and-a-half proceeding consisted of appointing members to SEE ELECTORAL ON PAGE 6
Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook UNIVERSITY CENTER
WE HAVE YOUR DEGREE PROGRAM! GET YOUR BACHELOR’S OR MASTER’S DEGREE RIGHT HERE!
Brandman University
California State University Bakersfield
University of La Verne
CERTIFICATE
BACHELOR’S PROGRAMS
CREDENTIAL
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!
• Applied Studies • Criminal Justice • Legal Studies • Psychology • Social Science • Social Work • Computing Technologies
California State University Northridge
MASTER’S PROGRAMS
• Applied Behavior Analysis
INFORMATION (661) 362-5474
www.cocuniversitycenter.com
• Autism Spectrum Disorder BACHELOR’S PROGRAMS
• Psychology – Marriage & Family Therapy Emphasis • Psychology – Marriage & Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling Emphasis DOCTORAL PROGRAMS
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Communications • Sociology
MASTER’S PROGRAMS
• Public Administration • Social Work
National University CERTIFICATE
BACHELOR’S PROGRAMS
• Homeland Security & Emergency Management • Nursing • Paralegal Studies • Sport Psychology MASTER’S PROGRAMS
• Applied Behavior Analysis • Criminal Justice
• Mild/Moderate Preliminary Education Specialist • Single-Subject/Multiple-Subject Teaching BACHELOR’S PROGRAMS
• Accounting • Business Administration • Child Development • Educational Studies (Liberal Studies) • Organizational Management MASTER’S PROGRAMS
• Business Administration • Educational Counseling, Credential in Pupil Personnel Services • Educational Leadership, Credential in Preliminary Administrative, Concentration in Leadership • Leadership Management • Special Education
COLLEGE COLLEGEOF OFTHE THECANYONS CANYONSBREAKING BREAKINGNEWS NEWS| •SPRING SPRING 2017 2017
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Partnership Creates Apprenticeship Program
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ollege of the Canyons and Advantage Media Services (AMS) Fulfillment have partnered to create apprenticeships in warehousing and shipping, the first partnership of its kind in California. The Canyons Apprenticeship Program (CAP) gives 13 select students the opportunity to earn money while they learn. “We are grateful to AMS Fulfillment for their commitment to provide these apprenticeship opportunities, which is a groundbreaking achievement,” College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “This commitment will allow the college to apply for the California Apprenticeship Initiative (CAI) Grant, which will pay all costs of related instruction for all of the apprentices at AMS Fulfillment.” The partnership requires apprentices to be full-time employees who will take COC coursework related to their jobs.
Real-World Training
“Apprenticeships enable students to apply the knowledge they have gained from classroom instruction to a real-world experience,” said Jeffrey Forrest, vice president of economic and workforce development at the college. “The business community benefits by creating a pipeline of talent to meet their workforce needs. Also, when a business invests in the training of its staff, it leads to higher productivity, less turnover and lower costs.” After the apprenticeship is complete, apprentices will receive a certificate or credential. The apprentice may also be eligible for a pay increase and/or promotion with their employer. “We think that this program will help take introductory jobs and turn them into
FROM LEFT, JAY CATLIN, PRESIDENT/MANAGING PARTNER OF AMS FULFILLMENT; DR. DIANNE G. VAN HOOK, CHANCELLOR OF COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS; AND AMS FULFILLMENT CEO/MANAGING PARTNER KEN WISEMAN AND EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF CLIENT SERVICES BETTY-LOU WISEMAN. career opportunities in our industry,” said Ken Wiseman, CEO and managing partner of AMS Fulfillment. “Because of the program’s aspects, such as job shadowing and hand selection, we will employ individuals who see this more than just a job.” AMS Fulfillment is the first company in the Santa Clarita Valley to partner with a community college to create an apprenticeship program. In doing so, AMS Fulfillment
JAMES GLAPA-GROSSKLAG, DEAN OF EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY AT COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS, ADDRESSES SUMMIT PARTICIPANTS.
is the first company in California to offer an apprenticeship program specializing in warehousing and shipping, as well as the first in the country to apply for a registered apprenticeship with the U.S. Department of Labor in warehousing and shipping. The Department of Labor launched the Apprenticeship USA initiative in 2011 to provide employers with tools and resources to foster a highly skilled workforce.
The Division of Apprenticeship Standards approves apprenticeships at the state level. The Canyons Apprenticeship Program is in the process of seeking state and federal approval. Based in Santa Clarita, AMS Fulfillment is a full-service order fulfillment company that provides third-party warehouse management, fulfillment services, and order management resources.
MOMENTUM IS BUILDING FOR OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES, AS EVIDENCED BY PARTICIPANTS REPRESENTING 28 COLLEGES WHO ATTENDED THE OER SUMMIT AT COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS ON JAN. 31.
TEXTBOOKS FROM PAGE 1
Open Educational Resources (OER) are making education more accessible by lowering costs. With the cost of textbooks at an all-time high, many students’ success depends more on affordability. In fact, 42 percent of College of the Canyons students reported in 2016 that the cost of textbooks influenced their decisions to enroll in courses. By adopting and promoting OER, the college is removing barriers for students to succeed.
OER PROGRESS AT COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS
• More than 40 different OER classes in Sociology, Math, Biology, History, Water, Business, Chemistry, Psychology and Counseling. • Search for OER courses coming June 2017. • Sociology OER pathway ready in fall 2017. • More than $750,000 in savings for students in fall 2016. • COC’s investment in OER has saved students more than $1.5 million in 2016-17.
OER WEBSITES
• www.canyons.edu/OpenEd-Faculty • www.canyons.edu/OER-Students
accelerated learning at the college. “OER has proven to help students succeed across the world.” Presenters included Nicole Finkbeiner, associate director, institutional relations for OpenStax College, and Una Daly, director of the Community College Consortium for Open Educational Resources. “We were happy to host two nationally recognized OER experts to speak about the OER movement and OER degree pathways,” Weston said. During a breakout session, participants were encouraged to discuss faculty adoption and best practices for integrating OER in classrooms. The average college student is expected to spend more than $1,200 a year on textbooks and school supplies, according to research by the College Board. Last fall, the college introduced an associate degree pathway in sociology, which allows students to earn an associate degree by taking only OER-based courses that do not require the purchase of costly commercial textbooks. By using OER materials instead of commercial textbooks, College of the Canyons students save an estimated $1.5 million each year.
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SPRING 2017 | COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS
SBDC Top Performer in Region
SILVER SPUR AWARD
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College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook (right) presented the Silver Spur Award for Community Service to Jack and Doreen Shine during a gala celebration at the Sheraton Universal Hotel on March 18. Jack, founder and president of American Beauty Homes, and Doreen have volunteered abundant time and expertise to numerous non-profit organizations. “From the arts to affordable housing to family wellness, they have set a standard of personal involvement and generosity that serves as an example to us all,” Van Hook said.
he Small Business Development Center hosted by College of the Canyons has been named the 2016 Top Performing SBDC within the Los Angeles Regional Network, outperforming the region’s seven other centers. SBDC Director Catherine Grooms and her team of expert advisors helped clients in the Antelope, San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys access $31.6 million in capital, while starting 61 businesses and creating 470 jobs. “I believe and support my team in their commitment to helping clients create economic impact for the local economies we serve,” Grooms said. In addition, four SBDC advisors won the “Top Capital Award” for generating the most capital for clients. “College of the Canyons is proud of its partnership with the Small Business Administration in advancing economic development and entrepreneurship throughout the region,” said Jeffrey Forrest, vice president of economic and workforce development at the college. The SBDC, the Small Business Administration’s largest service program, provides one-on-one professional business consulting and training at no or low cost. Info: cocsbdc.org
Instructors to Fly Aboard Airborne Observatory
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ollege of the Canyons adjunct instructors Christine Hirst and Thomas Gavin have been selected by the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Institute to join the 2017-18 NASA Airborne Astronomy Ambassadors (AAA) program, joining 37 public high school physics and earth science teachers representing seven California school districts. Hirst and Gavin, who teach astronomy and physical science at the college, will fly aboard NASA’s Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA), the world’s largest aircraft-based observatory. It flies at altitudes of 39,000 to 45,000 feet. “This is the only space program of its kind in the world, so this is such an honor,” said Hirst, who also teaches earth science and engineering at West Ranch High School. “I applied to this two years ago and was denied, so this is a dream of mine.” Positioned above more than 99 percent of the atmosphere’s water vapor, SOFIA makes it possible to conduct experiments and gather data that would otherwise be impossible to obtain. The modified Boeing 747SP, which is based at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center facility in Palmdale, carries a reflecting telescope with an effective diameter of 2.5 meters. “I have been teaching science for over 30 years and can’t believe that this opportunity to contribute to the science that I teach has been offered for me to participate in,” said Gavin, who is also a physics teacher at West Ranch High School. “I am very
THE COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS INSTRUCTORS WILL FLY ABOARD THIS HEAVILY MODIFIED BOEING 747, THE WORLD’S LARGEST AIRCRAFT-BASED OBSERVATORY. proud to represent our great COC science program, and I know that this experience will help me to build a better classroom experience for my students.” AAA participants receive preflight preparation through online learning modules, workshops and webinars. An intensive science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) expe-
rience, the SOFIA flight allows educators to witness scientific observations as they are conducted, better understand the research process, and take what they learn back into their classrooms. “My high school students launch a weather balloon each year, so I am very excited to fly where my students’ experiments have flown,” said Hirst. “I plan to ap-
ply to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory as a solar system ambassador following this experience, and will definitely bring the lessons into all of my classes. “ SOFIA, a partnership between NASA and the German Aerospace Center, welcomed its first group of educators in 2011. Thomas and Hirst are expected to fly aboard SOFIA this fall.
Education (CWEE) office. “I’m excited about this collaboration with the Career Center, which will provide veteran students with access to resume workshops, career exploration workshops, internship opportunities, and a variety of ‘military-to-work transition’ services, “ said Renard Thomas, director of the Veterans Resource Center. “Our students will now have all of these services right at their fingertips.” The expanded 3,456-square-foot
space – to be called the Career and Veterans Resource Center (CAVE) – will be located in Building X-6, located adjacent to the Student Center on the north side of the Valencia campus. The new center will feature a “smart room,” break room, reception area, student/customer work space, and sufficient office space for staff, including a representative from the Veterans Affairs Office. “By hosting a representative from the Veterans Affairs Office, veterans won’t
have to travel to the San Fernando Valley to receive services from that entity,” Thomas said. “The new location will afford office space for all Veterans Resource Center staff to work and provide veteran education benefits services, as well as a place to host workshops specifically for veterans.” The center helps veteran students and dependents utilize their VA education and vocational benefits. During the 201516 academic year, the center served 752 veterans and dependents.
Veterans Center to Move to Larger Space by Summer
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he College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center will move to a larger location as part of an ongoing effort to better serve the needs of a growing veteran student population. The new facility, which is expected to open by summer, will provide additional space for the center’s staff to provide support services. The move will also create a “one-stop shop” for students, as the center will share its space with the Job & Career Center and Cooperative Work Experience
COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS | SPRING 2017
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College Offers Classes at Local High Schools
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illiam S. Hart Union High School District juniors and seniors can enroll in College of the Canyons courses this fall without leaving their high school campuses — or paying enrollment fees. In an effort to help students jumpstart their college careers and cut tuition costs, the College Now! program is now being offered at all seven Hart District high schools. “Participating in College Now! as a junior and senior in high school maximizes the potential to earn a full academic year’s worth of college credit,” said Kari Soffa, director of outreach and school relations at the college. “Students can save up to $1,000 in community college tuition, $6,000 in California State University tuition, or
$13,000 in University of California tuition.” Courses taught by College of the Canyons professors and offered during the spring semester include Administration of Justice (Bowman), Anthropology 220 (Canyon), Communications Studies 105 (Golden Valley, Saugus, and West Ranch), Psychology 101 (Hart), and Sociology 101 (Valencia). The program confers concurrent enrollment status, which allows students to enroll in any degree-applicable coursework offered at the Valencia or Canyon Country campuses, or online. To enroll, students must submit a college application, complete an online orientation, and submit a College Now! form to Admissions & Records. Info: canyons.edu/CollegeNow
STUDENTS AND PARENTS ATTEND A RECENT INFORMATION NIGHT AT THE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER.
College Lauded for Perfect Placement Rate of CNC Grads
A DAY FOR WOMEN
C Kim Goldman, executive director of the Santa Clarita Valley Youth Project, delivers the keynote address during the 2017 College of the Canyons Women’s Conference at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center on March 4. The annual conference, whose theme this year was “Inspiring Voices: Making a Difference in an Ever-Changing World,” featured a variety of presenters and breakout sessions designed to inspire participants to achieve goals and become civically engaged members of the community.
ELECTORAL FROM PAGE 3
positions, filling vacancies, and signing official documents. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Fortman said. “This entire election cycle as a whole has really elevated my interest in politics and law in general, but the Electoral
PROMISE FROM PAGE 1
In an annual college survey of students, 75 percent identified the cost of textbooks as a top barrier to achieving their educational goals. Moreover, 35 percent reported they cannot afford any textbooks.
Open Educational Resources
In response, the college has encouraged the use of Open Educational Resources (OER), which are teaching and learning materials that have been released in the public domain or under intellectual property licenses as a no-cost alternative to commercial textbooks. According to the nonprofit College Board, textbooks and supplies average $1,390 per year for students at public twoyear, in-district commuter colleges. By using OER materials instead of commercial textbooks, COC students save an estimated $1.5 million each year. This fall, the college will introduce an associate degree program in sociology that will provide guaranteed transfer to a California State University campus by utilizing OER-based courses. Additional resources available to students to alleviate costs include an Associat-
College process made me want to have a future in the political world.” As a result, she changed her major from environmental science to environmental policy. Fortman, who voted for Hillary Clinton, was initially discouraged by the election’s outcome, but it has emboldened her to continue working hard. “I am more enthusiastic than ever
ed Student Government food bank, access to child care at the Early Childhood Education Centers at the Valencia and Canyon Country campuses, on-campus bus stops, and robust financial aid and scholarship programs. The college’s aggressive outreach efforts to local high schools have helped many students jump-start their college careers and save money.
ollege of Canyons has received an Outstanding Achievement Award from the South Bay Workforce Investment Board (SBWIB) for attaining a 100-percent placement rate of graduates from the Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Operator Program offered through the CNC Fast Track. “We are honored to have received this award, which is a reflection of the high-quality of our Fast Track courses and our job placement efforts,” said Michael Bastine, director of the Center for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT) at the college. “Our CNC manufacturing programs were created to provide students with real-world and hands-on experience in order to make them more competitive when entering the workforce.” The Fast Track CNC Machinist Training Program is designed for students seeking entry-level jobs. Operating CNC machines, which follow a computer program, requires the use of complex operations and great attention to detail. Graduates have gone on to work for companies such as SpaceX, Aerotek, Aerospace Dynamics International, Paragon Precision, and RAH Industries. Info: canyonsecondev.org
about getting the proper education to achieve my goals,” she said, adding she hopes to transfer to the University of California Davis in the fall to study environmental policy analysis. “COC was a great transition for me from high school to a four-year university,” she said. “The classes I have taken so far have been challenging but rewarding, and either campus or online.
• The William S. Hart Union High School District’s Academy of the Canyons at the college’s Valencia campus provides students with concurrent enrollment status and introduces them to college culture, which builds a foundation for lifelong learning. The “Accelerate Your Dreams to Reali-
‘The First-Year Promise program will not only reduce the financial burden for new full-time students, it will also enhance their ability to succeed and build a foundation for lifelong learning.’ – DR. DIANNE G. VAN HOOK, CHANCELLOR
• The college expanded its College Now! program to allow William S. Hart Union High School District juniors and seniors to enroll in COC courses without having to leave their high school campus or pay enrollment fees. • Participating high school students receive concurrent enrollment status, allowing them to enroll in any degree-applicable coursework offered at
ty” project nearly tripled students’ chances of completing college-level courses with accelerated math and English courses. For students not majoring in fields related to science, technology, engineering or math, Math 75 paves the way for college-level statistics by replacing a twocourse sequence of basic and intermediate algebra, while English 96 replaces a twocourse sequence that prepares them for
some of the meaningful discussions I have participated in during class have shaped my decision to enter politics.” She said she hopes to stay involved behind the scenes in the world of politics. “Working on Mr. Caforio’s campaign introduced me to the political process, and I hope to work on more campaigns in the future,” she added.
transfer-level curriculum in just one course. These accelerated courses helped save more than 600,000 hours of remedial instruction and more than $1,650,000 in tuition costs for remedial courses not applicable to an associate degree. “Our reputation for institutional effectiveness, data-driven initiatives, and dedication to reducing higher education costs sets us apart as a college,” Van Hook said. “We are very excited to implement the First-Year Promise program to continue supporting course completion and student success.”
Program Launches in Fall
First-Year Promise is scheduled to launch this fall with 300 qualifying students. Eligible incoming students will enroll in a one-year sequence of courses with priority registration, preceded by summer orientation to learn about majors and receive academic guidance. Courses will be offered with the benefits of OER textbooks and other learning community elements, ongoing counseling and student support. Each student will also receive a $100 voucher each semester for other supplies and instructional materials, as well as free computer lab printing services.
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SPRING 2017 | COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS
Audit Finds Measure M Bond in Full Compliance
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he Santa Clarita Community College District’s independent citizens bond oversight committee has accepted the results of an independent audit confirming that, for the 10th year in a row, the district has properly accounted for all bond expenditures, issuing the district an unmodified opinion – the best rating possible – noting no adjustments, audit findings, questioned costs or instances of noncompliance. Vavrinek, Trine, Day & Co. audit covered the fiscal year ending June 30, 2016. The firm presented its report to the citizens oversight committee on Jan. 24. “This displays the efficiency and continuous stability of the combined efforts of finance staff, the facilities team, and the
chancellor,” said Nicholas Lentini, chair of the oversight committee. “Thank you for being so efficient and clearly explaining the audits in detail to our committee.” The 2015-16 audit confirms approximately $152.2 million in resources from the first four bond issuances, which also includes earned interest and net premium in the bonds. Of that amount, more than $130.8 million has been expended on authorized bond projects, leaving the district with a Measure M fund balance of $21.4 million as of June 30, 2016. “We are pleased to learn that College of the Canyons has once again achieved another clean Measure M audit,” said Sharlene Coleal, assistant superintendent, vice president of business services at the college. “We
are thankful to the bond oversight committee volunteers for their efforts in ensuring that the district remains in full compliance.”
Facilities Expansion Funded
Since its passage, the $160 million bond measure has helped fund a wide variety of major facilities and expansions at the college, such as the Mentry Hall expansion, The Learning Center (TLC)/Library expansion, Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, the Canyon Country campus, the College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education, and the Canyons Hall student services/administration building. The bond also helped secure $36.7 million in state matching funds that otherwise would have been lost to other districts.
FORUM WITH CONGRESSMAN
“College of the Canyons has diligently used Measure M bonds to continue meeting the short-term and long-term needs of our ever-growing student population,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “With the support and trust of the community, we are committed to continue building for the future.” Measure M will begin the funding to build the Science Center at the Canyon Country campus and a 1,000-space parking structure at the Valencia campus. “We look forward to using the remaining Measure M bond funds to the maximum value possible to continue reaching our goals and redefining what a community college can do for the communities it serves,” Van Hook said.
U.S. Rep. Steve Knight, who represents the 25th Congressional District, participated in a student forum hosted by the Political Science Department at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center on March 13. Moderated by professors David Andrus and Phil Gussin, the forum touched on issues such as the current political climate, immigration reform, health care, bilingual education, and veteran affairs.
VIEWPOINT FROM PAGE 3
an expanded pool of well-trained local talent. All of this helps fuel the local and regional economies as well. Imagine, if you will, if we could expand the concept even further. Imagine that College of the Canyons actually offers bachelor’s degrees! It’s not as farfetched as some might believe. Fifteen California community colleges have been given the green light to offer bachelor’s degrees as part of a pilot program created in 2014 by Senate Bill 850, which sought to provide more educational options to help high school graduates get the training required to enter a competitive job market. That job market is not only fiercely competitive, it’s facing the biggest drought of them all: a projected shortfall of 1.1 million educated workers who will be needed to keep California’s economy on a healthy track. The pilot program will do little to fill that shortfall, but a full-fledged effort to allow community colleges to offer multiple bachelor’s de-
grees would provide serious momentum toward achieving California’s employment goals. The pilot program is severely limited and hampered by restrictions, such as preventing duplication of programs at nearby CSU and UC universities, but new
mirror the unique needs of their communities. They can do it better and at less cost than private, for-profit colleges. Consider the debacle of ITT Technical Institute, which suddenly shut its doors and filed for bankruptcy last year, leaving thousands of students in the lurch.
legislation could put accessible higher education back on track. Senate Bill 769 by Sen. Jerry Hill would expand the pilot program and allow community colleges to offer multiple bachelor’s degree programs in areas where the CSU system is unable to meet that need. Community colleges are well equipped to offer specialized medical or technology programs, for example, that
California community colleges know their communities intimately as well. They know what’s needed, and they can deliver a high-quality and affordable education like no other. Allowing community colleges to offer bachelor’s degrees would also shatter the biggest barrier to higher education of them all: the cost. Current estimates put the cost of a four-year degree at a California community college at $10,000.
‘California community colleges know their communities intimately as well. They know what’s needed, and they can deliver a high-quality and affordable education like no other.’
That’s not the cost per semester or per year, but the total cost for all four years! It would open a veritable floodgate of educated workers to meet California’s needs. It’s clear that California’s higher education system is not meeting demand, with much of this due to artificial restrictions that prevent community colleges from doing all that they are capable of doing. It makes sense to identify and implement solutions that are both innovative and realistic. Allowing community colleges to offer bachelor’s degrees fits both criteria. We will be doing all that we can to support the new legislation because it’s the right thing to do. I hope you will support us in this important endeavor. I look forward to the day when someone mentions to me how thrilled they are that College of the Canyons offers bachelor’s degrees – and I can respond with a simple smile, an affirmative nod, and a “You betcha!” Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook is chancellor of the Santa Clarita Community College District.
COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS | SPRING 2017
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Student-Athletes Honored for Academic Prowess
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ineteen College of the Canyons student-athletes – five women’s soccer players and 14 football players – have been honored for their academic achievements. Soccer players Jade Ane, Amanda Balzer, Hanna Halstead, Kianna Hemphill, and Isabella Hochner (at right) were named to the 2016 California Community College Athletic Association Women’s Soccer Academic All-State Team. They represent the largest number of honorees from any community college in the state.
A total of 37 players representing 18 colleges were named to the team, having participated in at least one season and completed at least 24 semester units with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. “They have exhibited the drive and dedication needed to be successful both in the classroom and on the field,” coach Justin Lundin said. Football players Blake Austin, Tyler Bjorklund, Raymond Calles, Gabriel Gaitan, Zach Gragas, Jerel Hall, Andrew Karatepeyan, Austin McKinney, Matthew Moore, Jesus Mota, To-
benna Okunna, Colton Oshiro, Jacob Sammut, and Hayden Wright were named to the 2016 Southern California Football Association Scholar-Athlete team, having met the requirements of playing for two seasons, completing a minimum of 36 units, and achieving a GPA of at least 3.0. “These young men have dedicated hours of hard work to their studies and understand that the true purpose of College of the Canyons football is for student-athletes to pursue both their academic and athletic goals,” coach Ted Iacenda said.
2017 HALL OF FAME INDUCTED T he College of the Canyons Athletics Department ushered in a new Hall of Fame class during the 2017 Athletic Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Valencia on Jan. 26. The 2017 inductees included the 2004 National Championship Football Team; Sha’Tasha Allen, women’s basketball, 1998-2000; J.J. Arrington, football, 2001-2002; Jessica Gomez, cross country/track & field, 2004-2005; and Ulric Grigsby, meritorious service. “This year’s class of inductees holds a special place in my heart,” said Chuck Lyon, interim dean of physical education, kinesiology, athletics & athletic director, who also served as head coach of the 2004 football team. “These student-athletes, coaches and teams have left a significant mark on the Athletic Department and exemplify the ideals of what it means to be a College of the Canyons Cougar.” More than 260 guests and honorees attended the event, which featured special presentations for each inductee that highlighted their achievements as student-athletes at COC and beyond. Grigsby coached for more than 24 years before passing away in 2014. He coached multiple generations of student-athletes. An athlete in his own right, he ran track for the U.S. Army in the late 1940s and early ‘50s, and competed in five Senior Olympic games. Gomez was a four-time JC All-American for the Cougars. Her fourth-place finish at the 2005 California Community College Athletic Association Cross Country State Championships remains the women’s program’s all-time best finish.
THE ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTED THE ENTIRE 2004 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP FOOTBALL TEAM, MOST OF WHOM ATTENDED THE EVENT. She also left COC as track & field’s record holder in the 800-meter run. Arrington excelled as a running back for the Cougars during the 2001 and 2002 seasons before achieving stardom as a 2,000-yard rusher for UC Berkeley and a second-round NFL draft pick. He left Canyons as the program’s all-time leader in rushing touchdowns and, as a member of the 2008 Arizona Cardinals, became the first Cougar to play in the Super Bowl. Allen is the women’s basketball program’s all-time leading scorer. She
guided her teams to a combined 46-17 record during the 1998-99 and 1999-00 seasons and earned Western State Conference Player of the Year and all-state team honors as a sophomore, before earning a scholarship to California State University, Northridge. Just seven years removed from resurrecting its program, the 2004 football team posted an unprecedented 14-0 record en route to WSC, Southern California, state and national championships. In the 2004 CCCAA State Championship, COC defeated City College of San Fran-
cisco 39-32 to earn the nation’s No. 1 ranking. The evening also included emotional speeches from former student-athletes Sara Soltani, 2005 alumna, head coach of West Ranch High School cross country/track & field; Trevor Brackett, 2003 alumus and current doctoral candidate; and Domata Peko, 2003 alumnus and 11-year NFL veteran with the Cincinnati Bengals. They were on hand to share how College of the Canyons helped transform their lives.
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
CHAMPION
LIFETIME MEMBERS
Honda Performance Development
Lou and Rita Garasi Tom and Colleen Lee
LEADER Aero Engineering Boston Scientific – Lisa Welker-Finney Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
ADVOCATE Aerospace Dynamics Gary and Diana Cusumano Jeffrey Forrest
Tim Honadel and Holly Schroeder Joe and Kathy Klocko Math Support Services Jim and Jill Mellady Mitzi and Randy Moberg Dr. Skip Newhall The Network Doctor, Inc. Newhall Escrow – Steve Corn
Kirk and Ana Palmer Schools First FCU Shepard Insurance Agency Dr. and Dr. Lee Shulman Dr. Dianne and Mr. Roger Van Hook Dennis Witzel and Sheila Chovan Wells Fargo Elliott and Judith Wolfe