BREAKING NEWS

SPRING 2009

TOM RUSH IN CONCERT

PLAN NOW FOR SUMMER!

See the folk legend at the PAC May 16!

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Summer classes start June 15. Find the classes you need at www.canyons.edu.

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Commission Renews Accreditation, Commends College

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he Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges reaffirmed full accreditation for College of the Canyons earlier this year – completing a nearly two-year self-study and application process.

In reaffirming accreditation status, Barbara A. Beno, president of the accrediting commission, commended the college for excelling in a variety of key areas.

“The college’s commitment to collabo-

rative governance, numerous community partnerships, data-driven planning and evaluation processes, commitment to technology including student and faculty training and support, a wide array of student services, faculty and staff professional development opportunities, and commitment to student success were all noted by the visiting team and the commission,” Beno said in a Feb. 3 letter that officially reaffirmed the college’s accreditation.

“Credit for our successful accreditation

belongs to each member of the college’s faculty, staff, administration and Board of Trustees,” said College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook.

“Every day they devote themselves to serving our students in the best way possible, and to establishing and pursuing high standards of excellence to foster student success, and to partnering so that opportunities that don’t exist elsewhere are thriving at College of the Canyons. It is rewarding to me that their efforts and the out-

comes we have achieved were so evident to the visiting team.”

Accreditation is a voluntary process colleges and universities undergo to evaluate and assure the quality of education used by the American higher education community – and to subsequently make those results known to the public.

Not all colleges and universities can successfully complete this rigorous process. Indeed, College of the Canyons See ACCREDITATION on Page 6

University Center Nears Completion Facility, Named for College Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook, Set to Open This Fall

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n the spring of 2007, College of the Canyons officials were joined by a collection of the Santa Clarita Valley’s civic leaders, community members and college supporters on a plot of dirt-covered land overlooking the 154-acre Valencia campus.

“Our goal was to create an educational center based on partnerships,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said on that bright spring morning. “Today is a symbol of what persistence, dedication and never giving up can achieve.”

Moments later, Van Hook joined the college’s Board of Trustees to plunge a set of ceremonial shovels into the earth to officially break ground on construction of the college’s University Center.

Scheduled to open this fall, the 110,000-square-foot high-technology Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center now stands on that same patch of land, perched above the I-5 freeway, positioned to command a spectacular view of the valley’s majestic mountains and bluesky horizon – and designed to welcome all those with a desire to succeed.

Cited as a solution to the lack of upper-division, graduate school and continuing education programs in the area, the University Center was created to increase student access to advanced degrees by forging partnerships with surrounding four-year colleges and universities, which then make their academic programs available to students on the College of the Canyons campus.

The concept has already proven itself.

An interim University Center has operated on the college campus since 2002, serving thousands of students who other-

wise would not have had the time to commute to distant university campuses to pursue their educational goals.

“The University Center is a godsend to those of us who have full-time careers and busy family lives,” said Cathy Ritz, a recent University Center graduate who earned a master’s degree in educational administration and serves as chief operating officer for the COC Foundation. “The University Center allowed me to complete my educational goals right here at College of the Canyons, without the

The 110,000-squarefoot Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center (above), located along the southwestern edge of the Valencia campus, commands impressive views of the Santa Clarita Valley.

The front of the building and its main entry (left) take shape.

Photos courtesy of AirPixWest

See UNIVERSITY CENTER on Page 6

New Program Helps ‘Launch’ Careers

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

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hile the economic recession has forced many organizations, colleges and universities to cut back across the board, College of the Canyons continues to keep the needs of students in mind.

Among the more than 280 classes that will be taught at the college’s Valencia campus this summer – 145 are available online – College of the Canyons will introduce the LAUNCH program, which will help students jumpstart their college careers and enter the workforce.

The pilot bridge program will aid students who tested into English 081 and Math 058 to take a five-week intensive course in those subjects along with a counseling and personal development course for a smoother transition into college life.

Students who successfully complete the program will receive See LAUNCH on Page 6

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

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Student, 92, Proves It’s Never Too Late to Learn D

DOROTHEA DANIELS

orothea Daniels hadn’t been in a classroom for more than 75 years, but seeing her grandchildren pursue a higher education prompted the 92year-old to check out the college life.

The oldest College of the Canyons student, Daniels is currently enrolled in an introductory English course at the Canyon Country Campus, which is a short drive from her Agua Dulce home.

“My grandchildren inspired me,” said Daniels of her three grandchildren who are juggling school and work. “I thought, ‘I should go too. I don’t have anything to do, and I want to do something worthwhile.’ ” But the last living founding member of the Agua Dulce Mother’s Club (now the Women’s club) had also grown tired of her crafts, which include making glass beads with a blowtorch, watercolor painting, silk scarf painting and ceramics.

“I don’t care for crochet,” said Daniels, who also enjoys sewing.

Daniels moved to Los Angeles in 1934 from North Platte, Neb., intent on enrolling in UCLA’s nursing school. But

the school was not accepting out-of-state applicants, and after a string of odd jobs, Daniels married and started a family.

After having been out of school for so long, Daniels said she knew it wouldn’t be easy to return.

The English 092 course is her second attempt after dropping a computer course that she found difficult.

But even now, “it’s a challenge and it entails a lot of computer work that I’m not so good at,” said Daniels, who uses email but struggles with other computer programs.

Daniels prefers attending classes at Canyon Country than at the college’s Valencia campus because it’s closer to home and “not as confusing.” But when it comes to navigating her way around campus, Daniels said she usually asks fellow students for help. “They’ve all been very nice and helpful,” she said. “Not once have I been refused.”

Even so, Daniels says she feels like an outcast in her class because of her age.

“The young people are really nice and are amazed by my age,” she said.

“They’re really friendly and they talk to me, but it’s hard to relate to them. Most of them have telephones stuck to their ears when they’re in class.”

Daniels is also an avid traveler who has traveled to Costa Rica, Africa, China, France and much of the United States.

“I cannot convey to you how exhilarating it is to hear her talk about safaris in Africa,” said Brandy Janssen, Daniels’ English professor.

“My favorite place is China,” said Daniels, who walked along the Great Wall and climbed the 400 steps at the Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas.

As of yet, Daniels isn’t sure what subject she would like to study, but if she does well in her English class, she will continue taking more classes. Her ultimate goal is to graduate with an associate degree.

Daniels recalled how her friends didn’t understand her decision to go back to school.

“They just laughed and asked why,” she said. “But I’m doing what I want to do – for me.”

NEWS IN BRIEF College Speech Team Picks Up Awards The College of the Canyons speech team was awarded first place in the small schools divisions at the 2009 Pacific Southwest Collegiate Forensics Association spring championships in March. While individual team members have won various medals in the past, this is the first time the college’s speech team has earned a school award at a local/regional competition. The team also garnered a number of individual awards, including that of Billy Hatto who advanced to the final round in the Oral Interpretation of Prose category.

Joining Hatton as winners were bronze medalists Eric Hollingsworth (oral interpretation of drama) and Josh Tabak (oral interpretation of prose). In addition, Brian Viggianelli earned a spot in the final round of the impromptu speaking category in only his second tournament appearance. Prior to this most recent success, team member Jaume Arranz earned a silver medal in the impromptu speaking category at the Tabor-Venitsky Invitational.

‘Kite Runner’ Essay Contest Winners Named The winners of the college’s Literature to Life essay contest focusing on Khalid Hosseini’s best-selling novel “The Kite Runner” have been announced. Although open to all William S. Hart Union High School District high schools students, the bulk of the essay submissions, and each of the three scholarship winners, came from Saugus High School teacher Jodi Guerrero’s advanced placement (AP) English class. The winners were Joseph Taylor, First Place ($250 scholarship); Marissa Embola, Second Place ($150), and Carina Hornbrook, Third Place ($100). The contest called for students to submit essays of 800 words or less that compared and contrasted Hosseini’s novel and the Performing Arts Center’s presentation of the American Place Theatre’s Literature to Life adaptation of the book.

College Receives $10,000 Gift for the Arts The Jack Oakie and Victoria Horne Charitable Foundation has awarded the Fine and Performing Arts Division at College of the Canyons $10,000, which will be distributed to as many as 10 students as scholarship awards in the amount of $1,000 each. The scholarships will be awarded this spring to students studying theatre, dance, music and fine arts. Students can apply for a variety of scholarships in screenwriting, directing, acting and comedic improvisation, among others. Jack Oakie, a veteran of vaudeville and Broadway, came to Hollywood in 1927. He made 87 pictures, most of them comedies or musical comedies. For more information about the scholarships, please contact the COC Foundation at (661) 362-3434.

Animation Dept. Receives $5,000 Grant The College of the Canyons Animation Department was awarded a $5,000 grant from the Medtronic Foundation to support the ACME Animation Network, a fee-based online learning community. ACME links students with other college students, high school students and animation industry professionals from across the nation through videoconferencing sessions. Students can upload animated movies and projects on ACME’s site for feedback from peers and industry professionals from Disney, DreamWorks and Sony, among others. Because the program assists students in developing online portfolios approved by professionals as “studioready,” many studios will hire graduates directly from the ACME experience. For more information about the college’s animation program, visit www.canyons.edu/animation.

In celebration of Earth Day 2009, members of the College of the Canyons Students for Sustainability group handed out 100 biodegradable coco coir pots filled with native seeds to plant at home. The group was created to help educate and inform citizens about environmentally sound practices and promote alternative ways to protect the valley’s natural resources.

Campus Connects on Earth Day

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ollege of the Canyons celebrated Earth Day on April 22 with a variety of events designed to promote sustainability and demonstrate the many ways individuals can positively impact the environment. The day’s events, ranging from presentations to a film screening, were organized by Students for Sustainability and the Sustainable Development Committee (SDC).

“This year’s Earth Day at College of the Canyons is a lot more student-initiated,” said Jia-Yi ChengLevine, SDC co-chair. “I am thrilled to see our students take interest in environmental matters and to see them share their knowledge with the community.”

Duane Morton, founder of the full-service junk removal company 1-800-GOT JUNK, gave the pres-

entation “It’s All Junk,” which was followed by a screening and discussion of “The Story of Stuff,” a documentary focusing on the connections between environmental and social issues.

Attendees planted sunflowers and poppies in biodegradable cups that were made available outside the Student Center.

Vincent Devlahovich, a geology professor at the college, led the panel “Learning Community and Sustainability.” And, the Academy Award-winning animated film “Wall-E,” which shed light on the future of earth’s environment, was screened.

Environmentally friendly door prizes such as reusable shopping bags, “green” calendars and canteen water bottles also were raffled.

Junior High Summer Institute to Return

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ack and better than ever, this year’s Junior High Summer Institute (JSI) at College of the Canyons offers more than typical summer camp activities.

It features new curriculum tracks and activities designed to provide students with a fun and engaging atmosphere.

Available to incoming sixth-, seventh- and eighthgraders, JSI allows parents the option of enrolling students in week-long curriculum tracks – taught primarily

by College of the Canyons instructors or field experts – in areas such as art, film, math, science and musical theatre. New are tracks focused on animation, 3-D design, teen fitness, young entrepreneurship and lake recreation.

JSI will run 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday from June 15 to July 24 (no meeting July 3) and

will consist of six one-week sessions.

Base cost is $185 per child per week. Some tracks may require an additional $15 materials fee.

An extended-care option allows students to remain at JSI from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. each day at an additional cost of $60 per child per week.

JSI will offer a limited number of need-based scholarships. Eligible students must be currently enrolled in a Santa Clarita Valley school district. All scholarship forms and paperwork must be turned in to Community and Continuing Education Office by April 17.

To register or to obtain additional information, call the Community and Continuing Education Office at (661) 362-3300 or visit www.canyons.edu/juniorhigh.

ABOUT BREAKING NEWS Mail: College of the Canyons Public Information Office 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Email: pio@canyons.edu

Breaking News is published by the College of the Canyons Public Information Office. Its purpose is to inform the community about programs, events, issues and accomplishments of the Santa Clarita Valley’s community college. It is distributed to residences, post office boxes and businesses in the 367square-mile Santa Clarita Community College District. Advertising is not accepted.

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County Names Van Hook Woman of the Year I

Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich presents Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook with the Woman of the Year Award.

n one of her first positions in community colleges, an enterprising young faculty member created a model program for Santa Ana College in the Rancho Santiago Community College District – a program that would help other women enter the workforce by giving them access to the training and support services they needed to succeed.

Within five years, the program became a state model and was funded at more than 50 other colleges across California.

She named her re-entry program, New Horizons, and now, decades later, the Los Angeles County Commission for Women and the County Board of Supervisors honored College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook as a recipient of the 2009 Women of the Year Award during the prestigious 24th Annual Women of the Year Awards Luncheon in March.

The county’s Commission for Women was established in 1975, (about the same time Chancellor Van Hook helped create her first women’s re-entry center) to represent the special interests and concerns of women of all races, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, religious convictions, social circumstances, and sexual orientation.

Van Hook created the New Horizons program so that women could have the same opportunities as men, and since then, she has dedicated her life to providing access to education for everyone, and to helping students succeed.

District awardees are selected by each Los Angeles County Supervisor, and, aside from serving as role models, Women of the Year nominees must

have worked on behalf of women’s issues and made significant contributions to women’s equality.

Chancellor Van Hook was selected for this award

by Michael D. Antonovich, Los Angeles County Supervisor, Fifth District.

“I’m passionate about California community colleges and the opportunities they afford people to become whomever they want to be,” said Chancellor Van Hook. “I have been blessed to be able to work in this amazing system of education and to build bridges for people so they can open doors and realize that they can succeed.”

Throughout Chancellor Van Hook’s career, she has mentored women, advocated for the promotion of women and championed women’s equity issues, while serving as a first-hand example to her peers and colleagues of just how powerful a role model and visionary leader one woman can be.

Before coming to College of the Canyons, Van Hook helped promote and staff the Asilomar Leadership Conference, which provides training for women seeking to advance to executive positions in community colleges throughout California, and later established the Association of California Community College Administrators (ACCCA) Mentor Program to further train future community college leaders.

In addition, for the past two decades Van Hook has shared her extensive knowledge and experience by serving as a role model and mentor to women aspiring to become college presidents – with more than 40 of the women she has mentored going on to See VAN HOOK on Page 5

Service-Learning Honored Jill Harper Remembered

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ielding hammers and wearing hard hats, a group of College of the Canyons students worked alongside Habitat for Humanity volunteers and the cast of the CW show “90210” in building the 100th home in Pacoima on March 14. “Our students had a great time mingling with the stars and working hard to complete construction on the Youth United Home,” said Dr. Jennifer Hauss, director of the Service-Learning Program.

College of the Canyons was recently named to the 2008 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll to recognize the wide-ranging community service-learning options offered.

College of the Canyons, one of the 635 higher education institutions recognized – and one of only 39 in the state to receive the award – created the program to integrate meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to teach civic responsibility, strengthen communities

and enrich students’ learning experiences.

“College of the Canyons’ servicelearning students have been doing this for years, and, as a result, their education, our community and our community-based organizations have been enhanced and enriched by their efforts,” Hauss said.

Last semester, service-learning projects included the participation of nearly 40 faculty members, 80 non-profit community-based organizations and more than 350 students. Projects included a collaboration with the county’s Department of Children and Family Services Tutoring and Mentoring Project, in which students established a mentor relationship with children in foster care. The drive-through flu clinic, in which nursing and EMT students gained experience working with patients and dispensing vaccinations, was another successful service-learning project.

See SERVICE-LEARNING on Page 5

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bout 200 friends air – always upbeat, practiand family of Jill cal, witty, unselfish, posiHarper gathered at tive and genuine – present College of the Canyons and passionate about all March 28 to remember the she did,” Van Hook said.

12-year Santa Clarita In addition to working Valley resident, devoted with seniors and starting wife and mother and tirethe American Cancer less volunteer whose sense Society’s Relay for Life of humor and relentless locally, Harper served on optimism consistently left numerous college commitothers smiling. tees and helped pass bond Jill’s husband Phil and measures C and M. sons Richard and Ian Harper’s family asked shared touching and huthat donations be made to JILL HARPER morous memories, while the COC Foundation in her City Councilman Bob Kellar, Chancel- honor. All contributions will benefit the lor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook and Ed Canyon Country campus, to which she Masterson, field representative to donated many hours.

Assemblyman Cameron Smyth, reflectInformation on making a donation is ed on her legacy of service. available from the COC Foundation by “For COC, she was a breath of fresh calling (661) 362-3493.

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Coming Up: Tom Rush, Lovell Sisters, Los Lobos T

Upcoming acts scheduled at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons include The Lovell Sisters (above left), who will perform with legendary folk artist Tom Rush (above right) on May 16, and Los Lobos (right), best known for its stirring rendition of the Richie Valens classic “La Bamba,” on May 29.

Chaotically Comical Play ‘Noises Off’ Opens May 7

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play within a play, the College of the Canyons Theatre Department production of “Noises Off” will charm audiences for four nights at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center starting on May 7.

The play, which New York Magazine called a “side-splitting” farce, is directed

by Paul Wickline, chair of the college’s theatre department.

“The concept of the ‘play within the play’ isn’t unique,” said Wickline. “Many playwrights have explored this idea.

However, none has crafted as ingenious a script as Michael Frayn’s ‘Noises Off.’ ” A hapless provincial theater company puts on a conventional sex farce called “Nothing On.” For the first few minutes, the audience watches that very farce – but quickly realizes it’s a disastrous rehearsal.

Doors slam, plates of sardines go flying, and actors miss their cues. The result is chaotically comical.

“Working on this project with such a terrific group of both college and community actors and a talented team of designers has been a delight,” Wickline said. “I look forward to sharing our work with the public.”

“Noises Off” will be presented on the Main Stage beginning at 8 p.m. Thursday, May 7, continuing at that time on Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9. The final show is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, May 10. Tickets range in price from $5 to $10.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.canyonspac.com or call the Box Office at (661) 362-5304.

he Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons will be filled with a rich medley of sounds from performances by Los Lobos, Tom Rush and The Lovell Sisters.

“The season continues with some great shows at the PAC, with tickets still available,” said Adam Philipson, PAC managing director. “We are proud to bring multiple Grammy Award-winning artists of a variety of genres.”

Tom Rush – who paved the way for the folk-pop sound of the ’60s – has made a profound and lasting impact on the American music scene.

With the release of his new album “What I Know,” the troubadour is HOW TO GET TICKETS back stronger than ever.

“He hasn’t recorded a studio ONLINE: www.canyonspac.com album in more than 30 years,” accord- Learn more about all shows at the PAC, ing to a Los Angeles Times review of purchase tickets securely and quickly, the album, “but you’d never guess that even select the seats you’d like to sit in. he’d been away so long, from the lithe PHONE: (661) 362-5304 spirit in his voice on these 15 tracks.”

Accompanied by the Lovell VISIT THE BOX OFFICE Sisters, Rush will surely delight fans Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with old and new material when he Monday through Friday. The Box Office takes the stage on May 16. is located at the front of the PAC, 26455 Following closely on Rush’s heels Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita. will be Los Lobos, who will perform on May 29. Hailing from East Los Angeles, Los Lobos reached mainstream success with its stirring rendition of Richie Valens’ classic “La Bamba” for the big-screen movie of the same name. “With the exception of U2, no other band has stayed on top of its game as long as Los Lobos,” according to Rolling Stone magazine.

With origins in Vera Cruz, Mexico, Los Lobos promotes outreach to Latinos in the communities in which it performs to promote “Son Jarocho,” a style of music and dance that has influenced the band.

Thanks to a grant from the COC Foundation, guest artists will lead free Son Jarocho workshops at the Newhall Community Center earlier on the day Los Lobos will perform. “The ‘Son Jarocho’ workshops will introduce the music of Veracruz to a new generation who will learn the origin of the music and the various aspects that make it a vibrant musical culture today, here and in Mexico,” Philipson said.

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Silver Spur Awarded to Harold, Jacquie Petersen S ince relocating to the Santa Clarita Valley in 2001, Harold and Jacqulyn Petersen have developed a reputation for the enthusiasm, dedication and generosity they display toward many of the community’s most benevolent non-profit organizations and causes.

To honor their generous community service, the College of the Canyons Foundation Board of Directors awarded them the college’s “Silver Spur” Community Service Award for 2009 during a special dinner in their honor at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on March 7.

Harold, president of Petersen International Underwriters, has maintained an active role in his community throughout the years. He is a supporter of the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley, the Santa Clarita Child and Family Center, the UCLA Alumni Association, and the Mary and Joseph League of Los Angeles.

In addition to her involvement with the Boys and Girls Club and Child and Family Center alongside Harold, Jacquie has given her time and generosity for causes associated with the American Red Cross; the John Tracey Clinic, which provides free medical services for children with hearing loss; the Junior League; the American Heart Fund and the American Cancer Society. She has also served as president of the Mary and Joseph League

and a volunteer with the Catholic Church.

Most recently they were honored for their work in the community at the Valentine’s Day Have a Heart Sweethearts event benefiting the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Health Foundation’s ongoing work in funding the Roberta G. Veloz Cardiac Catheter Lab. The couple’s generous and wide-ranging support for College of the Canyons has revolved around several key projects at the college, including the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center capital campaign and the annual Silver Spur celebration.

In addition, Harold and Jacquie are both members of the President’s Circle, a group of prominent community leaders, alumni and corporations dedicated to the success of the college, and major contributors to the COC Annual Fund, which provides the college with the financial resources needed to support and strive for the highest levels of excellence in teaching, vocational training, student scholarships and overall campus innovation.

“We consider ourselves lucky at College of the Canyons to count the Petersens among our closest friends and strongest supporters,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “We owe them an immeasurable debt of gratitude for all they have done for the college and its students over the years.”

Van Hook FROM PAGE 3

achieve that goal at a California community college.

Under her leadership, the number of female administrators at the college has increased from just two when she was hired in 1988 to 54 percent today.

With full belief and personal experience in the leadership capabilities of women, Van Hook is quick to encourage her peers, colleagues, staff and students to strive to reach their full potential through education, professional development and job advancement – demonstrating through her own actions that it can be done.

Service-Learning FROM PAGE 3

“College students represent an enormous pool of idealism and energy to help tackle some of our toughest challenges,” said Stephen Goldsmith, vice chair of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which oversees the Honor Roll. “We salute College of the Canyons for making community service a campus priority, and thank the millions of college students who are helping to renew America through service to others.”

For more information about the Service-Learning Program, visit www.canyons.edu or call (661) 362-3043.

Harold and Jacquie Petersen receive the Silver Spur Community Service Award for 2009 from College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook during a dinner in their honor March 7.

Annual Wine Classic Set for May 30

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he College of the Canyons Foundation invites wine connoisseurs from across the Santa Clarita Valley to partake in an evening of great wine, gourmet food and good company during the 22nd Annual Santa Clarita Valley Wine Classic.

The event is scheduled 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 30, in the Main Gallery at California Institute of the Arts, 24700 McBean Pkwy., just east of Interstate 5.

Boasting a variety of new-release, rare and vintage wines, as well as a plethora of delectable dishes from some of the Santa Clarita Valley’s finest restaurants and caterers, this annual event benefits the Student Symphonic Orchestra Program at College of the Canyons.

The orchestra is a three-tiered instrumental education program that was founded at CalArts in 1969 and moved to College of the Canyons in 1989. The program provides a positive and creative outlet for hundreds of young musicians throughout the valley.

In addition to sampling the impeccable array of food and drink, guests will receive souvenir wine glasses and trays to use while tasting, snacking and otherwise socializing during the event.

During the silent-auction portion of the evening,

guests will have the opportunity to bid on an array of both rare and popular wines, restaurant gift certificates and an assortment of attractive gift baskets.

Tickets for the 2009 SCV Wine Classic are currently on sale through the College of the Canyons Foundation. The pricing structure is as follows: • $70 each / $135 pair until May 30 • $80 each / $155 pair at the door • $35 each for designated drivers • $65 each (10 minimum) for group sales through May 25 Tickets are available for purchase online at www.scvwineclassic.org or by contacting the College of the Canyons Foundation at (661) 3623737. Ticket orders also may be faxed to (661) 2599961. Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted.

Tickets can also be purchased by sending a check to College of the Canyons Foundation, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91355; please make checks payable to the College of the Canyons Foundation.

Updated information such as lists of participating wineries and restaurants, a map and directions to the event are available at www.scvwineclassic.org.

Valencia: (661) 259-7800 • Canyon Country: (661) 476-3800 • Online: www.canyons.edu

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Library, Mentry Hall Set for Major Expansion W

ith construction of the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center nearing completion, College of the Canyons is preparing to embark on another wave of new construction projects designed to expand and modernize the Valencia campus.

Coming up are major expansions of Mentry Hall and the Library, both of which were built in 1997 when the college’s student population stood at about 7,500, as well as a federal stimulus-funded computer lab designed for community use.

The 43,000-square-foot Mentry Hall will gain an additional 30,000 square feet of classroom and instructional space. The building houses the Art Gallery, radio, television, film (RTVF), art, photography, architecture, interior design, and graphic and multimedia design programs.

The Mentry Hall expansion, utilizing Measure M bond funds and no state contributions, will likely be the next project out of the gate.

The state’s uncertain economic climate and its ability to sell general-obligation bonds necessary to pay for construction could affect the expansion timeline, but college officials hope to break ground on the project this year.

“With the addition of these new classrooms, we are working toward our master plan of eventually removing the Classroom Village,” Jim Schrage, vice president of facilities planning, operations and construction, said in reference to the collection of modular classroom buildings on the south end of campus. “That area will then eventually open up into a big mall space similar to the Honor Grove.”

The approximately 36,000-square-foot Library will more than double in size when its expansion is completed. The plan is to add roughly 52,000 square feet of space to the current facility.

In addition to significantly increasing the amount of space needed to house library resources and materials, the expansion will also create a new, permanent home for the college’s Tutoring, Learning & Computing Lab (TLC), which will feature separate math and English instruction labs, expanded student study areas and additional computer labs. At least one of these new computer labs will designated for community use.

Being paid for with funds from the state and Measure M – the $160 million general obligation bond that local voters approved in November 2006 – the college’s $24 million library expansion project is expected to break ground in 2010, pending the issuance of bonds at the state level.

The Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, with Interstate 5, Stevenson Ranch and Valencia Westridge visible to the west, nears completion.

University Center FROM PAGE 1

stress of having to leave the Santa Clarita Valley.”

With construction of the University Center nearly complete, college officials expect to begin offering classes in the new facility during the summer session before hosting a grand-opening celebration in August.

“This new state-of-the-art facility will enable us to dramatically expand the number of programs and degree options offered at the college while significantly increasing access to higher education right here in the Santa Clarita Valley,” said Barry Gribbons, assistant superintendent/vice president of institutional development, technology and online services.

Having already established partnerships with University of La Verne, Chapman University, UCLA Extension, National University, California State University (CSU) Bakersfield and CSU Northridge, the college will have the space to begin attracting more partners – and more degree programs.

In fact, California Lutheran University, CSU Long Beach, CSU Fresno and CSU Los Angeles have already expressed interest in offering their programs at the University Center.

New programs already set to be offered in the permanent center include a bachelor’s degree in nursing through National University, a bachelor’s degree in economics with an emphasis in marketing through CSU Bakersfield, and the Ryan Designated Subjects Adult Education Teaching Credential through UCLA Extension.

Other proposed additions to the lineup are a master’s

Bond Oversight Panels: College in Compliance

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ollege of the Canyons is in full compliance with legal requirements that mandate public oversight of the disbursement of bond revenues for both Measure C and Measure M, the oversight committees for the respective bond measures determined.

The two citizens’ oversight committees made their unanimous determinations after reviewing the results of independent audits covering the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008. All of the audit findings were favorable to the college and its handling of bond measure funds.

“The committee agrees that the Santa Clarita Community College District accounting procedures are in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, and the district’s expenditures of general-obligation bond funds were in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and approved board policies,” Rita Garasi, chair of the Measure M oversight committee, said in a letter to the Board of Trustees.

Michael Hogan, chair of the Measure C committee, also affirmed the district’s proper accounting procedures and bond fund expenditures.

“The committee is pleased to note that this was the seventh year in a row the (district) received no audit findings

and no exceptions were noted,” Hogan said in a Jan. 21 letter to the board.

It was also the second year in a row that the Measure M audit produced no findings or exceptions.

Both the Measure C and Measure M oversight committees approved formal resolutions affirming the college’s compliance on Dec. 11, 2008.

The Measure C oversight committee was formed following voter approval of that $82.1 million bond measure in 2001. It has provided much-needed construction of new facilities, renovation of the existing campus and creation of a new campus in Canyon Country.

The Measure M Citizens Oversight Committee was formed after passage of the $160 million Measure M in 2006.

California law requires that citizens’ oversight committees be appointed to oversee the disbursement of bond funds, as well as ensure that they are not used for faculty or administrative salaries or district operating expenses.

Meeting dates, agendas, minutes and additional information are posted online at www.canyons.edu. Click the “About Canyons” button directly beneath the college logo, then click the respective committee’s button in the left-side navigation column.

degree in psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy (MFT) from Chapman University and a bachelor’s degree in small business and entrepreneurial management from California Lutheran University.

In all, the University Center will house up to 10 partner institutions and offer more than 50 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees and credential programs.

The Board of Trustees named the new center after Van Hook because of her “tireless commitment to enhancing access to education, her belief in the power of dreaming big and never giving up, and her premise that we, as individuals and institutions, become what we give ourselves the power to be.” The University Center concept was Van Hook’s brainchild, an idea she nurtured and propelled to fruition.

Also slated to move into the new building are Academy of the Canyons, the Early College High School, the COC Foundation, Professional Development, the Institute of Teaching & Learning, Community & Continuing Education, and the Economic Development Division, which encompasses the Small Business Development Center, Employee Training Institute and i3 Advanced Technology Incubator.

“Part of the University Center’s original design was to bring together and serve as a hub for an interactive network of businesses needing training and students needing education where the college’s faculty, staff and educational partners work together to create a place where innovation can thrive,” Van Hook said.

For more information, call (661) 362-5474 or email universitycenter@canyons.edu. A complete list of program and degree options is available at www.canyons.edu.

LAUNCH FROM PAGE 1

written verification from their instructor to file a pre-requisite challenge and enroll in English 091 and Math 060.

“The LAUNCH program will help students move on to transfer-level courses more quickly,” said Denee Pescarmona, interim faculty coordinator for basic skills

Accreditation FROM PAGE 1

was among just four of 15 colleges to receive full accreditation at the commission’s January meeting.

Mitjl Capet, assistant superintendent and vice president of instruction, was the college’s accreditation liaison who shepherded the preparation of the institutional self-study report and coordinated the accreditation team’s visit.

“Accreditation is about accountability, and our outstanding accreditation results reinforce the fact that College of the Canyons has been found to be accountable to its students, to the community and to the high ideals and standards of higher education,” Capet said.

During the commission’s peer evaluation of the campus and its operations in October, and in the official accreditation report, commission visiting team chair Dr. Robert F. Agrella, superintendent-president of Santa Rosa Junior College, praised the college for an array of accomplishments, while also recognizing the mem-

and an English instructor at the college.

“By shortening the pipeline to transferlevel classes, we are helping to ensure that students will go on to meet their academic and career goals,” added Pescarmona.

The free classes will be taught by fulltime college instructors. Students must take both the math and English courses, and at least 80 percent of attendance is mandatory. For more information, contact Community Education at (661) 362-3330. bers of the college community for the attitude they display and important role they play in the community.

“You are to be commended for your entrepreneurial attitude, enthusiasm and spirit that you display,” Agrella said during the team’s exit interview.

Included in the visiting team’s exit interview were just three recommended areas of improvement: an acceleration of the timeline to transfer the storage of past student records to a digital format; a program review of library services designed to improve the effectiveness of the libraries at both campuses; and the continued focus on developing increased student learning outcomes – a recommendation handed down to all institutions undergoing the reaccreditation process.

“For an institution of your size and complexity to have just those three recommendations is to be lauded,” Agrella said, adding he has never prepared an accreditation report with fewer recommendations.

The full report, as well as the visiting team’s official evaluation report, are available at http://www.canyons.edu/Offices/PIO/Accreditation/.

C O L L E G E O F T H E C A N YO N S B R E A K I N G N E W S • S P R I N G 2 0 0 9

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Students Benefit From Math Textbook Program P iloted in 2007, the donor-funded Physics and Calculus Book Award Program at College of the Canyons provides textbooks to deserving students studying for careers in math-based career fields.

The Physics and Calculus Book Award program is administered through the college’s Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program.

Since its inception the book program has awarded a total of 19 books, at a cost of roughly $200 apiece, and has since expanded to provide 20 books each year on an ongoing basis.

Making the program even more beneficial is the fact that each physics/calculus book can be used for three sequential courses.

“One book goes a long way,” said College of the Canyons mechanical engineering student Angie Grayr, 21, pointing out that the $200 she saved through the award

program reduced her total semester book cost by more than 35 percent. “You’ll use these books semester after semester, and probably even after as reference material.

I’m planning on keeping my book forever!”

To be eligible for the Physics and Calculus Book Award program, students must demonstrate a financial need, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be majoring in a field of math, engineering or science.

After receiving the books, students must then meet with an academic counselor to create a student educational plan, submit academic progress reports throughout the semester and commit to maintaining at least a “B” average in any physics or calculus course work. If a student fails to receive a final grade of a “B” or higher in the class they must then return the book to the MESA office.

“They have to keep their grade up, so they have to perform,” said Susan Crowther, MESA program director.

“But we like the idea of there being a little bit of competition involved, so that students will aspire to be awarded a book.”

Much of the book award program’s success is due to generous contributions to the college’s Foundation by an anonymous donor. Because of the program’s great success, the donor has committed to providing an additional 20 books each year.

“For somebody to step in and give such a valuable gift for such a deserving group of students is really a blessing,” said Crowther. “The book award program is especially important because of the role it plays in the college’s larger effort to support technical industries throughout the state. California needs more engineers, and College of the Canyons has shown a strong commitment to supporting students pursuing the engineering and science fields.”

Faculty-Enrichment Tannehill Named Director of Small Business Center Program Honored S T he Academic Senate for California Community Colleges named College of the Canyons’ Institute of Teaching and Learning (ITL) winner of the coveted 2008 Exemplary Program Award – for its excellence in providing both full-time and adjunct faculty members with an innovative on-campus professional development program.

The Exemplary Program Awards allow colleges to showcase and share exceptional programs with other colleges. The ITL will receive a $4,000 award from the Foundation for California Community Colleges.

“College of the Canyons has always shown a strong commitment to professional development, and as such we are very honored to receive this award,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “We believe passionately that professional development is absolutely essential to enable us as a college to do our greatest work, which is developing our greatest resource: people.”

James Glapa-Grossklag, dean of distance learning, said, “We are all committed to doing this together – administrators, faculty and staff – because we believe that professional development opportunities produce sustained and concrete outcomes for our colleagues, our communities and most of all our students.”

ITL was created to enrich the faculty’s teaching abilities by encouraging “reflective practice” – the study of one’s own teaching methods – at every stage of the teaching and learning process.

Though dedicated to helping all faculty improve their teaching skills, ITL also offers an Associate Program designed specifically for adjunct faculty. Successful completion of the program bestows the status of “associate adjunct” and a 10 percent permanent pay increase. About 250 adjunct instructors have completed the program since 1989.

In addition, 230 individuals have taken at least one ITL course since 2002, and of the college’s 196 full-time faculty members 102 have taken at least one ITL course — while many more have participated in the program’s individual workshops and activities.

teven Tannehill has been and as a managing director of named director of the Banc of America Securities.

Small Business DevelopHe also served as an adjunct ment Center (SBDC), hosted faculty member in the

by College of the Canyons.

Finance, Real Estate and Tannehill will work closeInsurance Department at ly with Bruce Getzan, dean of California State University, economic development at the Northridge. He has served on college, to provide leadership, the Newhall School District direction and managerial overboard since 1998. sight of the SBDC and its He has a bachelor’s deoperations. Tannehill takes gree in law and society from over the position vacated by the University of California at former Director Paul De La Santa Barbara and an MBA Cerda and Interim Director from the Haas School of Charlie Gill.

Business at UC Berkeley.

“I am looking forward to Tannehill said he would STEVEN TANNEHILL joining the outstanding team of like to create an information conpeople at the college, in the Economic duit that would allow small businesses to stay Development Division and at the Small current with opportunities in the recently Business Development Center,” Tannehill said. passed federal economic stimulus package.

“It’s my hope to utilize my business experi“There are a wide range of benefits for ence, education and background in a public small businesses in that package, from service role that will provide a valuable enhanced tax benefits to opportunities to bid on resource for small businesses throughout our energy efficiency and other infrastructure projregion.” ects,” Tannehill said. “One of my first goals Tannehill has more than 20 years of experi- will be to set up a process to help small busience in the real estate finance industry. He nesses understand what’s in the package and spent the last 12 years as the chief operating how they can compete for opportunities the officer of Countrywide Servicing Exchange package provides.”

Lessons Learned in Competition, Victory and Defeat

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s the spring semester winds down, COC athletics is still in full swing with seven teams still competing for conference and state titles. The men’s and women’s basketball teams just finished up another very successful season that included Western State Conference titles and a handful of all-conference picks.

ATHLETICS ROUNdUP

Men’s BasketBall The Cougar men’s basketball team had a tough season, finishing with an 11-19 overall record and a 4-8 record in conference. COC ended the season on a two-game winning streak and defeated the two teams by an average of 14.5 points. In COC’s final game of the year, the squad outscored the Glendale College Vaqueros 19-11 in the first overtime period for a 107-99 win.

Sophomores Justin Smith (Reseda) and Jason Holzwarth (Keller, Texas) were named First-Team AllWestern State Conference and freshmen Brannon Bradley (Leuzinger) and Terrez Scott (Valencia) earned honorable mention.

WoMen’s BasketBall With one of the most athletic teams that head coach Greg Herrick has led in years, the women’s basketball team dominated conference play with a perfect 12-0 record. The first-place finish for Herrick was his 11th title and eighth non-blemished Western State Conference season in his 17-year career.

COC defeated Mt. San Jacinto in the first round of the playoffs, 81-77, needing all 40 minutes to hold off the feisty Eagles. Following the win against the Eagles, COC travelled to Ventura College to face a team that had not lost a single game during the 2008-09 season. The Cougars had their hands full and could not handle the fastpaced basketball of the Pirates and lost, 77-51.

A school record four women were named First-Team All-Conference – Sophomores Charity Smith (Palmdale), Arielle White (L.A. Dorsey) and Britney Bradley (Hart) and freshman Ashley Wakefield (Washington Prep).

Herrick was named the Conference Coach of the Year. softBall The softball team had a major turnaround from head coach John Wissmath’s 17-32 first season in 2008 and are

Pitcher Ashley Imperial led the softball team with a 10-3 record.

vying for the top spot in the Western State Conference.

The Cougars had early success with defeats of top-ranked Cypress and Mt. San Antonio College in early March, which prepared them for tough conference play.

At the end of March, pitcher freshman Ashley Imperial (Saugus) led the team with a 10-3 record and a team-best 1.78 ERA and freshman Melissa Herndon (West Ranch) finished in the top three of the conference with a .420 batting average.

BaseBall The baseball team struggled at the beginning of the 2009 season. The COC team had lost one of its strongest sophomore classes after the 2008 season to the professional ranks and to four-year universities, and it took some time for COC to truly understand the talent they possessed.

COC started the conference season with a 3-6-1 record, only to fall deeper into the hole with three consecutive conference losses to open Western State Conference play. Since then, head coach Chris Cota has led the team 14-1 record and at the halfway point of the conference

season, the squad was in first place.

Sophomore veteran Caleb Deville (Valencia) had a major part in helping the Cougars turnaround the season.

The pitcher leads the team with a 5-0 record and has steadily brought down his 3.09 ERA. Sophomore Julian Cruz (Saugus) tops the team with a .384 batting average and notched a team-high 12 doubles through March.

The defending conference champions have until the end of April to tie up another Western State Championship and earn a bid for the playoffs. track and field The COC track and field teams picked up on last season’s successes and have continued to compete with the best athlete’s the state has to offer.

Freshman Lance Mosley (Green Valley, Nev.) looks to be the Cougars answer to the sprinting events. The Nevada native already has the team’s top marks in the 100-meter, 200-meter dash and the triple jump. On the women’s side, multi-eventers Brittany Uhl (Saugus) and Caitlyn Ramirez (Hart) are carrying most of the load for the Cougars. In the recent Southern California Heptathlon, Uhl and Ramirez finished in third and fourth place respectively, and Uhl added 100 more points to her score from the 2008 season. sWiM and dive Swim and dive is getting ready for its final conference meets of the season during the month of April. The men sit in the middle of the conference standings and the women are at the bottom of the Western State Conference.

With a few more competitions left, the Cougars are looking to place well in the Western State Finals.

Men’s Golf The 2008 defending state champions had a slow start this year, but have caught up with conference leader Santa Barbara City. COC boasts two of the top individual golfers in the conference – sophomores Davis Kirkland (Crespi) and Ryan Weltig (West Ranch). The two were averaging 72 strokes per match after five competitions, with a few more to go before the conference finals. The Cougars hosted their home conference tournament at Valencia Country Club on Monday, April 20.

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C O L L E G E O F T H E C A N YO N S B R E A K I N G N E W S • S P R I N G 2 0 0 9

College of the Canyons forward Billy Knights (3) moves the puck past a pair of UC Irvine defenders during the 2008-09 season. The Cougars primarily play four-year colleges and universities in the region.

Cougar Hockey Wins Adams Cup Canyons Team Travels to New York to Compete in National Championships

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or the past six seasons, the College of the Canyons hockey team has proven over and over again that it has the talent, coaching and campus support to be highly competitive throughout the state.

The Cougars enhanced their on-ice reputation even further this past season, winning the Pacific Collegiate Hockey Association’s (PCHA) coveted Adams Cup and earning the chance to compete at the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) Division III National Championships in Rochester, N.Y. March 4 through 7.

“At the beginning of the season we probably would have been happy to get to the playoffs and be competitive,” said John Taferner, head coach of College of the Canyons hockey. “But as the team started to gel throughout the course of the season, we started winning games and the kids started to gain confidence.”

That confidence helped lead the Cougars to PCHA playoff victories over Fresno State University and nationally No. 1-ranked Northern Arizona University to win the conference championship.

With a belief that miracles can and do happen, Canyons headed to the National Championships as one of

only two community colleges, and the only college from California, to qualify for the tournament.

Including a mixture of 16 teams from four geographic regions across the country (Pacific, Atlantic, North and South), the tournament field featured a mix of larger and more athletically celebrated Division I universities – University of Colorado, Georgia Tech and University of Tennessee – and lesser known, put perhaps better geographically suited for hockey, colleges located in states like Michigan, New York and Pennsylvania.

In the opening round of the tournament, Canyons skated to a thrilling 6-5 victory over Albany University, advancing to a second-round match-up against Grand Valley State University (GVSU) of Allendale, Mich.

But Canyons would meet its match in GVSU, as the Cougars were defeated 7-2 and placed in the tournament’s consolation bracket – ending any hopes of bringing home a national championship. Canyons would go on to play two more games in Rochester, finishing the weekend with a 1-3 record and 14th-place tournament ranking.

“As a West Coast team, it’s very tough to win at the National Championships,” said Taferner, adding that playing games in back-to-back days also presented challenges.

“But I was proud of our kids. After we lost the last game, they put their heads up and said, ‘Now we know what it’s going to be like next year.’ ”

Because of the team’s success, Taferner expects the Cougars to begin the 2009-10 campaign at a higher preseason ranking, which could greatly affect the team’s PCHA playoff and ACHA National Championship tournament seedings.

“The level of hockey talent in Southern California is a lot broader and deeper than most people think. The problem is we don’t have the big leagues and facilities that will promote big-time hockey,” said Taferner. “And that’s one of the reasons why we started the program at College of the Canyons.”

With a roster of players hailing primarily from the Santa Clarita Valley, Taferner and General Manager Jim Schrage – along with the support of Athletic Director Chuck Lyon and Dean of Physical Education Len Mohney – have built the college’s hockey program from mostly home-grown talent.

As a result, this year’s squad has garnered commendations from the City of Santa Clarita, state Assemblyman Cameron Smyth, state Sen. George Runner and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors since returning home from Rochester.

“We believe in Santa Clarita, we believe in the kids of Santa Clarita and we believe in their abilities,” Taferner said. “It’s just a matter of harnessing that ability and making these kids believe they can achieve anything.”

Hall of Fame Event Reunites Teammates C The 2007 women’s golf team was honored for both its athletic and academic prowess. They are (from left) Ashley Windsor, Ashley Redmond, Tessa Harp, coach Gary Peterson, Eleanna Tan, Darlene Bognot and Jenny Lee, who was the 2007 individual state champ.

Golfers Honored for Academics

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he California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) named the 2007 College of the Canyons state champion women’s golf team the 2007-08 Pepsi Scholar Women’s Golf Team.

The honor, awarded during the 12th Annual CCCAA Convention in Ontario in March, goes to a sports team that had at least a combined GPA of 3.0 and demonstrated better-than-average accomplishments in intercollegiate athletic competition. The 2007 Cougar

women’s golf team earned a combined 3.09 GPA while winning the Western State Conference, Southern California and state titles.

“It is an amazing feat when your team can win an academic award,” head golf coach Gary Peterson said.

“It is even more impressive when you can also win a state championship in the same year. I am very proud of the women of the 2007 team and applaud their pursuit of success in the classroom and on the golf course.”

ollege of the Canyons wrapped up its third Cougar Athletic Hall of Fame on Jan. 22 in the East Physical Education Building on the Valencia campus. During a night filled with old stories and teammates reunited for the first time in more than 25 years, the dinner and ceremony went off in true COC style.

Keynote speaker Todd Donoho provided personal stories of his life as an L.A. sports broadcaster and his run-ins with some of the greatest sports figures. Donoho’s anecdotes kept the crowd of about 230 guests enthralled.

The college inducted four individuals – men’s basketball player Jesse Boyd, women’s golfer Susan Latch, football coach Larry Reisbig and counselor Al Adelini – and honored the 1981 state championship baseball team as the first to be inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame.

Inductees spoke about the privilege of being honored among COC’s finest. Guests heard stories of expertise from Reisbig, hope and triumph from Latch, adoration for the college from Adelini and personal growth from Boyd.

Former baseball head coach Mike Gillespie, who went on to coach at USC, relived the 1981 road to the state championships. Former assistant coach and now Dean of Physical Education and Athletics Len Mohney introduced each player and described what they were doing now.

The event rekindled memories and reunited athletes with friends, coaches and others they encountered at the college, but, most of all, it reminded them what they loved and cherished about College of the Canyons.