BREAKING NEWS by College of the Canyons

FALL 2010

REPoRT To CoMMUNITY

bRAvo! bRAvo!

Bond Measures C and M have delivered results as promised. PAGES 4 & 5

www.canyons.edu

LA Opera stages music instructor Catan’s ‘Il Postino’ to rave reviews. PAGE 7

C O L L E G E O F T H E C A N Y O N S / S A N TA C L A R I TA C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E D I S T R I C T

SERVING THE SANTA CL ARITA VALLE Y SINCE 1969

Much Larger Library to Open in 2012 51,435-Square-Foot Expansion Begins; Facility’s Size Will More Than Double

The $16 million expansion will result in a library spanning more than 87,000 square feet. Work is expected to be completed in late 2012.

ollege of the Canyons has broken ground on a major expansion of the Valencia campus library that will more than double its size and significantly expand its resources. The 51,435square-foot expansion is expected to be completed in 2012. The expansion will occur primarily on the south side of the existing library, located east of Seco Hall and facing Rockwell Canyon Road. Included in the expanded area will be space to house the Tutoring,

RELATED Construction begins on the Advanced Technology Education Center, the first permanent building at the Canyon Country Campus. PAGE 3

Learning & Computing Lab (TLC), along with instructional labs, classrooms, a community resource room, office areas and increased access to the college’s catalog of resources and electronic library.

The expansion plans have long been included in the college’s facilities master plan. The project will also provide an opportunity for college officials to review the services and overall effectiveness of the libraries at both campuses. Library services were identified as one of three recommended areas of improvement during the college’s 2008 Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation process. See LIBRARY on Page 6

UNIVERSITY CENTER ADDS PROGRAMS & STUDENTS

ore students than ever have discovered the benefits of earning degrees close to home, with nearly 1,500 students graduating with bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center since 2002 – and almost that many students enrolled in a wide variety of programs in the first six months of 2010 alone. As demand for local degree programs grows, College of the Canyons has added new degree, credential and certificate programs on a regular basis. With programs ranging from fitness instruction to engineering, community members now have access to more than 40 distinct educational programs. In the last year, the University Center has established partnerships with UCLA Extension, The American College and California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA), which will offer its bachelor of science program in manufacturing engineering starting in the fall of 2011. Taught by members of CSULA’s staff of award-winning professors,

REALISTIC TRAINING College of the Canyons’ joint venture with the Los Angeles County Fire Department has helped develop realistic fire-training simulations and classrooms at the Del Valle Training Center in Castaic. The one-of-a-kind center features a stretch of “freeway” with a simulated tanker truck accident, fuel spill and fire (above), and the “Del Valle Manufacturing” plant (right) that presents trainees with a host of computer-controlled scenarios such as a hazardous chemical spill, explosion and fire (far right). The center is utilized by the college’s firefighter academy and fire tech program, as well as multiple public safety agencies.

See UNIVERSITY on Page 6

Students Earn Top Honors for Design

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

hey went up against the best and the brightest from California’s four-year universities – and they walked away with the top prize. Perhaps that’s because they are the best and the brightest. The College of the Canyons architectural design and engineering students earned a first-place award for their unique “sky path” campus transportation idea, a design concept submitted to the 2010 Buildable Visions sustainable development design competition. The design competition was held in conjunction with the California Higher Education Sustainability Conference hosted by the Los Angeles Community College District. Open to architectural design and engineering students from See AWARD on Page 3

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

ECRWSS

Postal Customer

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NEWS OF NOTE

Budget May accommodate More Students

MEnTRy HaLL ExPanSiOn cOMPLETED

ov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Legislature approved California’s 2010-11 state budget after a record 100-day impasse spent identifying solutions to the state’s $19.1 billion deficit. While many state agencies received substantial cuts, the budget provides community colleges with $126 million to fund increased enrollment statewide, and $20 million for Career Technology programs. A proposed negative cost-of-living adjustment would have resulted in a $23 million cut to community colleges, but that was not part of the final package. The Legislature added new funding deferrals to the budget, whereby the state delays payments it owes to the community college system. Deferrals enable the state to manage its cash flow, and also give the appearance of a balanced budget by passing funding obligations from

one year to the next. The new budget pushes a $189 million payment from the latter part of the 2010-11 fiscal year into the beginning of the 2011-12 fiscal year. In the past, deferrals were used to avert cuts. The new deferral is being provided to support the augmentation for enrollment funding. Community colleges will have to borrow to spend the money this year, and wait for the state to pay it back next year – in essence, “credit card financing.” The increased enrollment funding is welcome news for College of the Canyons, which could receive more than $1 million to add classes and serve more students. There has seen a sharp increase in the number of students seeking to enroll at both the Valencia and Canyon Country campuses. More than 8,000 students were on waiting lists at the beginning of the fall semester.

College of the Canyons unveiled the new 30,000square-foot Mentry Hall expansion – less than a year after breaking ground. First opened in 1997, Mentry Hall now covers 73,000 square feet and houses the animation, architecture, interior design, art, graphic and multimedia design, photography and media entertainment arts departments. It includes 11 classrooms, two computer labs, a large lecture room, conference rooms, a state-of-the-art animation theater and a digital darkroom, giving students the space and equipment to excel in the digital media era. The $10.7 million project was funded by Measure M – the general-obligation bond passed by voters in 2006 – and completed using an innovative design/build construction model. The college was a major force in persuading the state Legislature to allow community colleges to begin testing the streamlined building process, which cuts costs and accelerates actual construction. Participating in the pilot project forced the college to move up construction by three years. “The window of opportunity to be selected to participate in the pilot program was very narrow,” said Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook. “The inherent flexibility, optimistic spirit and commitment to teamwork that is prevalent at the college allowed us to squeeze through that window.” Of the five projects approved for the trial statewide, Mentry Hall was the only instructional facility. While the normal timeline takes roughly seven years, the Mentry Hall expansion was completed in less than 12 months.

cuSuManO TO REcEiVE SiLVER SPuR The College of the Canyons Foundation has named Diana Cusumano the recipient of the Silver Spur Community Service Award for 2011. “Diana is not only a tireless, dedicated volunteer, but she also is a leader who inspires others to give of themselves,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “Her legacy of selfless service to the Santa Clarita Valley is amazing.” She is a COC Foundation board Diana cuSuManO member and has volunteered her time to the Library Associates and Education Scholarship committees. She has served numerous organizations over the years and is current chairman of the foundation board of the SCV Child & Family Center and a founding member of the SCV Heart Association board. The Silver Spur Celebration will take place at the historic California Club on March 5. For more information, to purchase tickets or become a sponsor, call (661) 362-3434.

nEW cuLinaRy FaciLiTy PLannED Due to continued student demand for culinary courses, College of the Canyons is in the process of securing funds and preparing designs for the construction of a permanent Institute for Culinary Education (iCuE) on the Valencia campus. “The students have embraced their new home in Castaic, but that location is only temporary,” said Cindy Schwanke, culinary arts instructor. The iCuE kitchen moved to a former restaurant in Castaic for the fall semester. Though the project is in its initial stages, plans calls for a new facility to be built in the spot previously occupied by Academy of the Canyons, near Mentry Hall. In January, the college will form a committee to discuss and finalize the project, whose construction timeline is dependent on approval from the Division of the State Architect and the college’s ability to secure funding. Luckily, the college has nearly $3 million to put toward the roughly $4.5 million iCuE facility, the result of money saved from the library expansion project.

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 in the 367-square-mile 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

Tony newhall (second from right) of the Henry Mayo newhall Foundation presents a check for up to $50,000 in matching endowed scholarship funds to the college of the canyons Foundation. From left are Jill Mellady, chair of the cOc Foundation; college of the canyons chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook; and Murray Wood, chief development officer for the cOc Foundation.

ScHOLaRSHiP MaTcH EnDS in ’11

very dollar donated to one of the College of the Canyons Foundation’s Endowed Scholarship Funds will bring an additional $1.50 to COC students, thanks to challenge grants from the Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation and the Bernard Osher Foundation. But time is running out. The Bernard Osher Foundation made an historic $25 million commitment to the 112-member California Community College system and Foundation for California Community Colleges in 2008, pledging a 50percent match of up to $25 million on all scholarship funds raised by community colleges through May 2011. In July, the Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation established its own $50,000 scholarship endowment with the COC Foundation, pledging up to $50,000, on a dollarfor-dollar basis, to match future funds the college raises for scholarship endowments through June 2011. The COC Foundation has embarked on a campaign to raise as many additional scholarship dollars as possible before these gift-matching opportunities expire. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to help our local students fulfill their educational aspirations,” said Murray Wood, the foundation’s chief development officer. “These matching grant opportunities enable our donors to leverage their gifts and maximize the value of their contributions like never before.” Since the initial Osher campaign was launched, the COC Foundation has raised $285,163, which, when

combined with $142,582 in matching Osher funds, makes for a total endowment of roughly $427,745. Those newly raised funds equate to 36 new endowed scholarships the college can award in perpetuity. The need is great. This year, more than 1,250 students applied for scholarship assistance at COC. While 470 were eligible, funds were available only for 154 awards – about 32 percent of all eligible applicants. “More students than ever before now struggle to make ends meet and stay in school,” Wood said. In recent months the COC Foundation has received major gifts from The Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation, The Betty Ferguson Foundation, Martin Sosin | Stratton Petit Foundation, Western Filter/Donaldson Co. Foundation, the Pam Beauer & Betty Oiler Fund, the WAVE Scholarship Fund, and the Lockheed Martin Environmental Sustainability Fund. Scholarship endowments also been established by a variety of campus entities. The Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook “Dare to Dream” Endowment for re-entry students, for example, has already received contributions from many of Van Hook’s friends, colleagues and community partners, and the college’s faculty, administration and staff. “This is the last chance for our friends and donors to have their gifts matched,” Wood said. “This endowment and these scholarships will last forever – and there are very few things in life that last forever.” For information, contact Wood at (661) 362-3433.

Collaborative Non-Profit Alliance Launched

he College of the Canyons Foundation has partnered with the SCV Child & Family Center and the SCV Family YMCA to lead the formation of a new, mutually beneficial alliance of non-profit organizations known as the Santa Clarita Valley Nonprofit Leadership Network. “There are over 90 of you participating today, representing more than 40 local non-profit organizations,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said during the formal launch event in August. “This constitutes the largest gathering of local service organizations and agencies ever convened in the Santa Clarita Valley, and College of the Canyons is privileged to host it.” With an immediate goal to establish a network of peer-to-peer support for the leaders of non-profit organizations operating in the current economic climate, the SCV Nonprofit Leadership Network is dedicated to helping organizations collaborate rather than compete. “Even in this time of scarce financial resources, we believe there are still ways to call upon our collective skills and experiences in order to maintain the positive impact we have on the quality of life found in the communities we serve,” said Murray Wood, chief develop-

ment officer for the COC Foundation and co-founder of the SCV Nonprofit Leadership Network. Joining Wood as co-founders are Lois Bauccio, president of the SCV Child & Family Center, and Chris Clark, executive director of the SCV Family YMCA. Other non-profit organizations involved with the network include the SCV Senior Center, Betty Ferguson Foundation, SCV Food Pantry, Michael Hoefflin Foundation, Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley and the SCV Education Foundation. With some of the largest, most visible non-profits already on board, the network will meet monthly to share resources and ideas, provide leadership training and best-practice techniques to strengthen and enhance the operations of all participants. The network also plans to provide an ongoing series of workshops designed to enhance both fundraising and organizational capacity by featuring guest speakers and covering a wide range of pertinent topics such as volunteer recruitment, training and development, tax issues, strategic planning and applying for grants. For more information or to join, contact Murray Wood at (661) 362-3433.

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FiRST PERManEnT BuiLDinG RiSES Applied Technology Education Center to Open at Canyon Country Campus

Workers raise one of the tilt-up concrete walls.

ust three years after the opening of the Canyon Country campus, construction is under way on its first permanent building, the Applied Technology Education Center (ATEC). Scheduled for completion by spring, it will provide hands-on learning and training in a variety of high-demand fields, each emphasising “green” technology. Expected to include five classrooms and about 10,000 square feet of workshop and laboratory space, it will consist of one tilt-up concrete building, four modular buildings and accompanying restrooms. Grading of the site is completed, underground utilities installed and foundations built. The concrete walls have been poured and erected. By using a tilt-up construction design –

in which walls are poured directly at the site into large concrete panels and moved into position around the building’s foundation – construction crews are able to complete the project relatively quickly. “The Canyon Country campus continues to grow and evolve in response to the community’s needs,” said Dr. Dena Maloney, vice president of the Canyon Country campus and economic development. “The Applied Technology Education Center will expand the college’s ability to provide students with cutting-edge education that leads directly to employment.” The $6 million construction project is being funded by Measure M, the $160 million general-obligation bond that voters approved in 2006. College programs slated to move into

the new center upon its completion include: alternative energy managementsolar, plumbing, electrical/electronics, construction management, water systems technology and automotive technology. One of the center’s many highlights will be a long-awaited permanent facility for the automotive technology program, which currently shares space and operates at Saugus High School. Expected to encompass approximately half of the 10,000 square feet of designated workshop space, the auto lab will include five automotive bays, a transmission lab, an engine lab, tool cribs and storage space, providing the space necessary to house the college’s National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) certified program.

Flu-Shot Exercise Tests community’s Readiness C

ollege of the Canyons nursing students, nurses from the L.A. County Public Health Department, and nursing faculty and staff from the college helped administer more than 1,000 flu shots during the fifth-annual flu-immunization exercise on Oct. 29. The event – a joint effort of the college, L.A. County Department of Public Health, City of Santa Clarita and L.A. County Sheriff’s and Fire Departments – served as a test of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Cities Readiness Initiative (CRI) response to a potential pandemic or bio-terrorism attack. Free flu vaccinations were administered to 1,015 people during the fourhour event. Of those vaccinated, 278 were of the nasal variety and 13 were pediatric vaccinations. Tetanus, toxoiddiptheria-accellular pertussis (Tdap) and pneumonia shots also were administered, bringing the total number of vaccinations to 1,518. Tdap is a vaccination for whooping cough. Unlike the drive-through model used during previous events, this year’s was a walk-through. Vaccines were dispensed beginning at 10 a.m. to community members who had lined up outside the Physical Education East building. While the drive-through concept was popular and successful, the main purpose of the program is to test the readiness initiative and the community’s response to a potential pandemic. The plan is to treat a mass population as quickly as possible. Under the plan, communities are challenged to develop a variety of models through which vaccines are distributed. These “points of dispensing,” or PODs, can take many forms, including both the drive-through and walk-through

AWARD FROM PAGE 1

the University of California, California State University and California Community College systems, the competition invited designs that provide forwardthinking solutions to urban design and transportation issues facing communities on or around their college campuses. The “Avant Verdant” team from College of the Canyons included Jolene Lain, Denisse Alejandre, Charlyn Bjerg, Jorge Cea and Eric Wagner, with adjunct architecture instructor Jason Oliver serving as faculty advisor. Participating in the competition outside of class and on their own time, the team spent more than three months generating ideas and design solutions to a variety of issues – transportation, pedestrian accessibility, heat reduction, and generation of on-campus wind and solar energy – affecting the college’s Valencia campus. “These students enthusiastically chose to address some of the issues they saw related to transportation around the campus,” Oliver said. “As their faculty advisor, I was extremely impressed with the way they came together and worked as a team to develop their design solution.” What they came up with was a plan to build an elevated, wind- and solar-powered tram system called the “sky path,”

People line up outside the Physical Education East building for the flu-immunization event on Oct. 29. More than 1,000 people were immunized.

models. During an actual emergency, both models would likely be utilized to inoculate many people in the shortest time. Although the majority of patients received vaccinations via the walkthrough model, drive-up accommodations were available for the disabled. which could be used to transport students, staff and visitors throughout the 153-acre campus in a quick, efficient, environmentally friendly manner. Solar tents positioned along the tram path and throughout campus parking lots would work to continually collect the energy needed to operate the tram and light the campus’ exterior, while also providing shade and minimizing any potential heat island effect. The students were awarded a $500 prize and recognition before the audience at the California Higher Education Sustainability Conference. As an encore, the team was invited to present its design to Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook and the Board of Trustees in early September, generating some early discussion about the project’s potential for future implementation. “I want to thank you for daring to imagine the future, and being so bold about it,” Van Hook said after seeing the presentation. “I think your proposal is historic. In a few years, when these ideas are adopted on a widespread basis, we’ll look back and remember that we first heard about them from a group of students at College of the Canyons.” Private industry also has taken notice of the students’ innovative ideas. The team is scheduled to present its award-winning design to representatives of Lockheed Martin for further input and refinement.

Public health officials say the exercises held at the college have ranked among the best in California. About 150 volunteers from participating agencies took part. “I am impressed with how much we learned this year, which makes this event even more useful,” said Michael Joslin,

dean of student services and the event’s incident commander. “The planning and implementation of the flu POD fosters cooperation and communication between agencies that otherwise don’t often work together, but who need to be able to coordinate their responses in the event of a large-scale emergency.”

SKy PaTH Computer-generated renderings depict the College of the Canyons students’ award-winning ecofriendly concept for shuttling students, staff and visitors thoughout the Valencia campus.

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Facilities Delivered. Educational Possibilities Expanded. Hasley Hall, the 58,348-square-foot hightech classroom building, houses instructional space for computer information technology, business, economics, computer science, cinema and journalism, as well as faculty offices, a board room and other support spaces for Distance Learning and PACE.

motive technology, construction management, building inspection, landscape management and water systems technology. The Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center provides 110,000 square feet of instructional and support space for numer-

The Mentry Hall expansion, a designbuild project that was completed in less than a year, added more than 32,000 square feet of instructional space, including two computer labs, a large lecture room, 11 classrooms, a 2-D drawing

labs, classrooms, offices and enhanced library facilities to support student success. Plans are under way to build a permanent home on the Valencia campus for the Institute for Culinary Education (iCuE),

Pico Canyon Hall, the 19,762square-foot music-dance building, houses the music and dance programs, and features a choir room, instrumental room, faculty offices, dance studio, electronic music room and music library. Aliso Hall and Aliso Lab provide a combined 32,000 square feet of lecture halls and instructional space for biology, physics, astronomy, allied health, chemistry, engineering and MESA (Mathematics, Engineering and Science Achievement). The East Physical Education Center provides an additional 21,543 square feet of space, including basketball and volleyball courts, as well as six outdoor tennis courts. The 70-acre Canyon Country campus, featuring 24,000 square feet of instructional space spread across 28 modular buildings, has made a huge contribution toward meeting the educational and training demands of the eastern Santa Clarita Valley. Since opening in The Valencia campus in late 2009, looking northeast. The Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook university center is in the foreground at right; interstate 5 is on the left. 2007, the campus has benefited from a number of improvements including the opening of the Carl A. which now operates inside a former ous degree programs offered by partner classroom, a life/drawing classroom, two Rasmussen Amphitheater, a free-standing restaurant in Castaic. Funded via a combiuniversities such as The American conference rooms and 12 offices. The coffee concession and extensive landnation of Measure M proceeds and a College, Brandman University, California $10.7 million Measure M-funded expanscaping. planned capital campaign, the new facility State University Bakersfield, Cal State sion increased the overall size of Mentry will feature an expansive teaching kitchen L.A., Cal State Northridge, the University Hall to 76,339 square feet. The Applied Technology Education and sit-down dining area. It will be built of La Verne, National University and Center, the first permanent building on immediately south of Mentry Hall. Work on a 51,000-square-foot expansion UCLA Extension. The expansive facility the Canyon Country campus, is now being of the Library will commence later this also houses the TEACH program, the built and expected to open in the spring of The planned Student Services and year or early 2011. A groundbreaking cerWilliam S. Hart Union High School 2011. The 10,000-square-foot facility will Administration Building will likely be the emony was held Nov. 16. The project will District’s Academy of the Canyons, the allow the campus to offer a variety of new next major project on the horizon. house a larger Learning Center lab, as City of Santa Clarita’s WorkSource Center educational and training programs, includand a number of key college departments. well as an assortment of instructional Stay tuned. There’s more to come... ing alternative energy management, auto-

Measure c approved More than 67 percent of Santa Clarita Valley voters approve this $82.1 million general-obligation bond measure on Nov. 6, 2001.

Opening night for the Pac The Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons opens on Oct. 15, 2004, with a sold-out college stage production of “Big River.”

Field of Dreams Cougar Stadium gets a field others can only dream of: Synthetic turf that mimics natural grass, without the wear, tear or maintenance. The $1 million project is completed in May 2003. university center is Born The Interim University Center opens inside a newly erected modular building on Jan. 22, 2002. Within 18 months, nearly 300 people graduate from programs here, illustrating the critical need for local access to higher education.

Music/Dance Building Opens The nearly $7 million Pico Canyon Hall officially opens on Aug. 9, 2005, right next to the Performing Arts Center.

canyon country campus approved The California Community Colleges Board of Governors grants approval on July 12, 2004, for the college to acquire land for a permanent, second campus that would later be called, appropriately enough, the Canyon Country campus.

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Bonds Measure Up and then some BOND MEASURES C AND M DELIVER PROGRESS AND INNOVATION AS PROMISED

hen future historians look back at this time, they will likely conclude that College of the Canyons truly came of age in the first decade of the 21st century, a period marked by steadfast community support that fed an unprecedented level of progress. The community’s confidence in its local college during this time was reflected at the ballot box, where not one, but two, general-obligation bond measures succeeded with overwhelming support. Voters approved the $82 million Measure C proposal in 2001, then backed up their resolve with the $160 million Measure M five years later. What followed were extraordinary levels of expansion and innovation. Combined, Measures C and M packed quite a punch, providing the funding to construct a wide assortment of new facilities to accommodate an ever-increasing number of educational and training programs, including a novel approach to providing local access to advanced degrees and the establishment of an entirely new campus in Canyon Country. “We certainly could not have evolved to this point without the optimism and support of our community,” College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “The community’s belief in College of the Canyons, which was reinforced by the passage of these bond measures, has allowed us to convert a promise into some very tangible results that will provide significant benefits for a very long time.” Indeed, the Valencia campus has been significantly transformed with the addition of seven new or radically expanded buildings, among them Hasley Hall, Aliso Hall, Aliso Lab, Pico Canyon Hall, the

East Physical Education Building, Mentry Hall and, of course, the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, whose unique approach to providing local access to multiple university degree programs was lauded by U.S. Department of Education Under Secretary Dr. Martha Kanter as a model of higher education access that should be emulated nationwide. It should also be mentioned that the long-awaited Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons arrived in 2004. Although it was not a bond-funded facility, its impact on both the college and the community has been significant. It not only provides a state-ofthe-art facility for the college’s performing arts programs and a series of professional, top-name acts that attract audiences from throughout the region, it also offers myriad theatrical, musical and dance programs throughout the community with a modern venue in which to perform. Then there’s the 70-acre Canyon Country campus, which welcomed more than 3,000 students when it opened in 2007 and fulfilled the community’s need for convenient access to college programs in the eastern Santa Clarita Valley. Those are just the most visible results of the college’s bond measures. Less visible, but equally important, have been numerous other projects that have made their own contributions to the college’s overall learning environment. Cougar Stadium benefited early on from necessary modernization, a new synthetic turf playing field and the installation of a new running track. Towsley Hall, the college’s vocational/technical center, was expanded, and a new warehouse was built to augment the existing warehouse, which the college had outgrown many years prior.

dollar by leveraging other resources. Take Measure C, for example. Although its original value was estimated at $82.1 million, the college leveraged those funds via interest and the refunding of bond proceeds to extract more than $92 million in value, plus another $40 million in matching construction funds from the state. Total dollar value of Measure C? More than $132 million. Actual value? Immeasurably high in terms of the expanded access to education and training opportunities – and the number of students who will gain knowledge and new skills. “It’s always difficult to quantify value when you’re talking about tens of millions of dollars, but I can tell you with sincerity and conviction that we have utilized and leveraged these bond funds to deliver the absolute maximum value possiThe Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook university center opened in 2009. ble,” Dr. Van Hook said. “It’s not just money well ceeds have been committed to a major spent, it’s a shrewd investment whose expansion of the Valencia campus library, payout will be measured in terms of peowhich is expected to be completed by ple’s lives, careers and successes.” Yes, the decade was a momentous one, 2012. And the construction pipeline is filled with myriad other projects, includ- but the college’s forward momentum is ing a permanent home on the Valencia not likely to end soon. “We recognize that, as one of the campus for the Culinary Arts Institute, and a new Student Services and fastest-growing community colleges in the country, we will continue to adapt and Administration Building. Certainly, the bond measures have to innovate to meet the educational and been the key components driving the col- training demands of this equally dynamic lege’s recent progress, but a lesser-known and fast-growing community,” Dr. Van factor also played an important role. The Hook added. “We promise to impress and college has maximized every bond-issued inspire for many years to come.” The bond measures have funded numerous other improvement projects, ranging from central plant renovations to classroom modernizations. Although funding from Measure C has wound down, Measure M is still very much alive. Construction of the Applied Technology Education Center, the first permanent building on the Canyon Country campus, is now under way. More than $10 million in Measure M bond pro-

Measure M approved Voters approve Measure M, a $160 million bond measure to add more classrooms and repair and improve facilities, on Nov. 7, 2006. The measure receives the required 55 percent majority in 147 of 150 precincts.

Hasley Hall Opens The ribbon is cut for Hasley Hall, the new high-tech classroom building, on Nov. 28, 2007.

P.E. Expansion completed The East Physical Education building and six tennis courts open in early 2009.

Science Buildings Open Aliso Hall and Aliso Lab open in the summer of 2007.

new campus Opens The Canyon Country campus opens Aug. 27, 2007.

applied Tech center Construction of the Applied Technology Education Center, the first permanent building on the Canyon Country campus, begins in late 2010.

Mentry Hall Expansion The expansion of Mentry Hall is completed in time to accommodate students at the start of the fall 2010 semester.

Library Expansion Begins Ground is broken for the Valencia campus library expansion on Nov. 16, 2010. Completion is set for 2012.

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$3 MiLLiOn GRanT FOcuSES On REnEWaBLE EnERGy TRaininG

ollege of the Canyons has been awarded a four-year grant totaling $3 million from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The grant establishes the California Regional Consortium for Engineering Advances in Technical Education (CREATE) Renewable Energy Regional Center, and will create and expand courses and workforce training programs to address the high demand for renewable energy technicians throughout the state – particularly in the wind and solar energy fields The bulk of the money will create new curriculum, purchase supplies and equipment, hire instructors and/or train current faculty, perform outreach in junior high and high school classrooms, and introduce renewable energy curriculum examples to local teachers. Funding will also go toward developing renewable energy programs and workforce training at the consortium’s partner colleges, including Cuesta, Cerro Coso, Santa Barbara City, L.A. Pierce, Oxnard, Merced and Porterville community colleges; California State Universities in L.A. and Fresno; and UC Davis. “We are very enthusiastic about taking on this leadership role, as the grant will create unique opportunities for

students throughout the state,” said Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook. “With the funding, we can move forward in equipping students with the skills and education needed to secure well-paying positions. That, of course, will lead to significant positive economic impacts in those communities where our partner institutions are located.” Funded by the NSF Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program – which was designed to strengthen the preparation of technicians for the high performance workplace of advanced technicians – the CREATE Renewable Energy Center at College of the Canyons is one of just 36 ATE centers of excellence in the nation. College of the Canyons can now begin a wide-scale assessment of the renewable energy curriculum available at partner colleges to better align those programs with the current economic climate and the needs of industry partners and employers throughout the region. “Our goal is to make sure the curricula of all our consortium colleges meet industry needs and give our students the best preparation possible, so they are well qualified for the emerging renewable careers in our region,” said Kathy Alfano, faculty member and CREATE director.

The grant comes at a time when the state’s utilities and power-generation industries are adapting to meet new energy regulations that mandate a reduction in the dependence of nonrenewable energy sources. Large-scale wind and solar farms are already being built and operated by utility companies including Southern California Edison and L.A. Department of Water & Power. A number of new wind farms have been developed throughout the Tehachapi Pass area of Kern County, a region included within the CREATE service area. Along with the increased amount of renewable energy being generated will come an increased demand for highly skilled wind and solar technicians. When the transmission upgrades are completed in 2015, demand for wind technicians is expected to nearly double. “College of the Canyons has a proven track record of working with industry to create the kind of technical curricula that will produce successful employees for emerging workforce needs,” Alfano said. “The National Science Foundation’s belief in our consortium will help not only our students, but, more generally, the development of our communities.”

LIBRARY FROM PAGE 1

chancellor Van Hook (inset) speaks during the nov. 16 groundbreaking ceremony for the new library, depicted above in an artist’s rendering.

UNIVERSITY FROM PAGE 1

the two-year (six-quarter) program will prepare students for engineering careers requiring specialization in manufacturing processes. Students will become familiar with industry-standard machine tools, manufacturing processes and engineering properties to contribute to the design and fabrication of manufactured products. Instruction in modern computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software, high-tech precision machinery and other computer-controlled manufacturing technologies will also be included in the program’s coursework. “Manufacturing is an important industry to Santa Clarita’s economic health,” said Dr. Barry Gribbons, COC assistant superintendent, vice president institutional development, technology and online services. We are excited to be able to bring in this program to help meet the workforce development needs of local companies.” Having debuted in fall 2010, UCLA Extension’s certificate program in fitness instruction offers a year-long path toward certification in fitness instruction. Ideal for personal trainers and coaches who want to achieve elite status in their profession, as well as dietitians, nurses, psychologists and other health professionals to expand their skill set, the program is also a great way for fitness enthusiasts and/or out-of-work professionals to launch an exiting new career. “UCLA Extension’s fitness instruction program is one of the best in the state, and has been a great fit for the University Center and our community,” Gribbons said. UCLA Extension will also soon begin offering its fundraising certificate program at the University center. The 28-unit fundraising certificate program will provide students with an indepth overview of the fundraising field, and is specifically designed for those with only limited knowledge and experience in the nonprofit sector. Core courses cover foundational con-

cepts and practices central to working in the field including governance, campaign planning and grant proposal development. “This program will help individuals working with local non-profit organizations develop the skills needed to be a more effective non-profit professionals,” Gribbons said. “We have a lot of dedicated volunteers working with our local nonprofit organizations, and we want to do everything we can to see that they succeed.” In July, the college established a partnership with The American College to begin offering a variety of financial planning certificate programs. “We were thrilled to have The American College join the University Center family of partners,” Gribbons said. “They are a nationwide leader in insurance and financial services education and will be a great complement to College of the Canyons’ insurance program.” Dedicated to providing innovative training and development services for financial services professionals, The American College has served as a valued business partner to banks, brokerage firms, insurance companies and other organizations for more than 83 years. “There couldn’t be a better time to offer these programs,” Gribbons said. “As more and more baby boomers begin to retire, the industry need for qualified personal finance advisors is expected to grow. As a result, educational programs like these can often lead to productive careers.” Cited as the college’s solution to the lack of upper-division, graduate school and continuing education programs in the area, the University Center was established to increase access to advanced degrees by forging partnerships with fouryear colleges and universities. Those institutions then make their academic programs available to students through courses offered at the center, which is located on the College of the Canyons campus. For information about the latest university partners and their degree and certificate programs, call (661) 362-5474 or visit www.COCUniversityCenter.com.

The $16 million expansion, which will create a library with more than 87,000 square feet, will be funded by the state and Measure M, the $160 million general-obligation bond that voters approved in 2006. Klassen Construction Management will perform management duties of the project. Construction bids have been approved by the college’s Board of Trustees and sent to the state for approval of contracts. Once approved, construction can begin later this year. During construction, pedestrian access around the library’s exterior, as well as access to the adjacent parking lot near the library, will be impacted. “The library expansion will be a tremendous addition to our campus,” said Jim Schrage, vice president, facilities planning, operations and construction. “However, it will require a great deal of patience from the campus community as we work to make this project a reality.”

Partners & Programs ABBREVIATIONS AND SYMBOLS AC BU CSUB CSLA

The American College Brandman University (Chapman) Calif. State University, Bakersfield Calif. State University, Los Angeles

CSUN NU UCLA ULV

Calif. State University, Northridge National University UCLA Extension University of La Verne

MASTER’S DEGREES

BACHELOR’S DEGREES B.A. in Applied Studies B.A. in Business Administration

M.A. in Business Administration

ULV

M.S. in Ed. Counseling; Pupil Personnel Services: School Counseling Cred. ULV

B.S. in Child Development

ULV

B.A. in Communications

CSUB

ULV

M.A. in Educational Management

ULV

M.Ed. in Ed. Management; Preliminary Administrative Services Cred. ULV

B.S. in Computing Technologies

B.A. in Criminal Justice

M.A. in Educational Administration

ULV

B.A. in Economics (Marketing)

CSUB

M.S. in Leadership Management

ULV

B.A. in English

CSUB

B.A. in Legal Studies

M.A. in Psychology w/ Marriage & Family Therapy Emphasis

B.A. in Liberal Studies

CSUB

M.P.A. in Public Administration

CSUN

B.S. in Manufacturing

CSLA

M.A. in Special Education

ULV

B.S. in Nursing

B.S. in Organizational Management

ULV

Fitness Instruction

UCLA

B.A. in Psychology

Fundraising

UCLA

B.A. in Social Science

TESOL

UCLA

B.A. in Sociology

CSUB

CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS

DESIGNATIONS & EXAM PREP CREDENTIAL PROGRAMS Multiple Subject Teaching

CSUB

Chartered Financial Consultant® Designation

Pupil Personnel Services

ULV

Chartered Life Underwriter Designation

Ryan Designated Subjects Adult ®

Education Teaching

UCLA

Single Subject Teaching

CSUB

Special Education Level I and II

ULV

Preliminary Administrative Services ULV

Chartered Advisor for Senior Living Designation

Prepare for the CFP® Certification Examination

Updated November 2010

www.cocuniversitycenter.com

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 • FA L L 2 0 1 0

catan (left, center) takes a bow with the cast of “il Postino” during its premiere at the Dorothy chandler Pavilion on Sept. 23. catan poses with chancellor Van Hook (top, left) at the premiere, and he accepts recognition from the Santa clarita arts council (top, right) on nov. 18.

composer catán Puts college on Opera’s Big Stage

ollege of the Canyons faculty member Daniel Catán’s new Spanish opera “Il Postino” has captured the hearts of audiences throughout Southern California, with its highly anticipated world premiere taking place on opening night of LA Opera’s historic 25th Anniversary season. Based on the Academy Award-winning film of the same name and the novel “Ardiente Paciencia” by Antonio Skármeta, “Il Postino” tells the story of a shy young postman in a tiny Italian fishing village who discovers the courage to pursue his dreams through his daily deliveries to the famous (real-life) Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. “I realized, from the very first time I saw the film, that it was a perfect theme for an opera,” Catán, the critically acclaimed composer and librettist, said in a recent interview. “It deals with art and love: the foundations upon which we build our lives.” Starring world-renowned tenor and opera legend Plácido Domingo in the role of Pablo Neruda — whose poetry is featured extensively in the opera — the sixshow run of “Il Postino” premiered at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles to rave reviews on Sept. 23. Because of the excitement surrounding “Il Postino,” LA Opera officials quickly announced a series of free public screen-

ings of the opera to be held at outdoor venues in Los Angeles and Orange County during the month of October — opening up the opera to an even wider audience. Following the opera’s successful debut, a congratulatory reception was held in Catán’s honor in the lobby of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons. “Creating an opera is, indeed, a huge undertaking, and that is what makes Daniel’s success so impressive,” College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said to Catán and those who had gathered to celebrate his success. “We are so privileged to have him at our college. He sets the bar high for us as we pursue our own academic or intellectual pursuits.” His critically acclaimed work has generated near-universal praise. Ronald Blum of the Associated Press wrote that “Il Postino” “delivers in a way few modern operas do. Catán has created a throwback, with arias, duets and lush tonal music, closer to the style of Puccini than of Catan’s contemporaries.” Joshua Kosman of the San Francisco Chronicle commented that those who complain that they don’t write operas like they used to can take comfort from “Il Postino,” adding that “Catán wrote this exactly like they used to.” Opera critic Robert D. Thomas of the Pasadena Star-News opined: “This was

one of those all-too-rare nights when every individual element melded marvelously into a whole, a performance that reminded us that opera — at its best — can touch emotions and tell stories like no other medium.” And, the Washington Post called “Il Postino” the “latest contender for the title of Major New American Opera,” a work with “considerable crowd appeal, which brought the opening night audience to its feet.” Such praise also has illuminated Catán’s association with College of the Canyons. “He has brought an unbelievable amount of credit to himself and, through his successes, placed College of the Canyons in a position of high esteem throughout the state, the nation and, indeed, the world as he takes “Il Postino” to Vienna and Paris in the months to come,” Dr. Van Hook added.

Catán has been a member of the college’s music faculty since 1999. Born in Mexico City in 1949, he earned bachelor’s degrees from the University of Sussex and the University of Southampton in Great Britain, as well as a master of fine arts and a Ph.D. from Princeton University. He has received past acclaim for previous Spanish-language operas, including “Rappaccini’s Daughter” and “Florencia en el Amazonas.” His works have been performed in opera houses from Seattle to Houston, as well as Central and South America. He has also found success as a composer for film and television. “Having someone of Daniel Catán’s talent on our faculty enhances the status of our college as a place of creativity and innovation and, as that translates to our classrooms, a place of academic rigor and excellence,” said Dr. Floyd Moos, dean of fine and performing arts at the college.

‘THE KiD’ cOMES HOME

An Interview: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s Glen Marhevka Trumpets Jazz Instructor’s Influence hen Big Bad Voodoo Daddy rocked the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons on Nov. 20, one of our own home-grown treasures was in the spot-

light. Glen Marhevka – “The Kid,” as he’s known to band members – began his musical career in the Santa Clarita Valley. Now he’s the lead trumpet player for Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, the band that launched the swing revival and continues to wow audiences around the world. Marhevka moved to the SCV during junior high, attending Placerita Junior High, then Hart High. We spoke with him about the experiences and influences that inspired him and shaped his career.

me well. He was patient and so smart. He was amazing. He’s retired now, and I know he is one of the most talented arrangers I’ve ever met. He gave me passion for music and is a big reason I am here today. COC was a huge learning phase in my life, and I owe a lot to Dirk and the college.” Fischer was on the music faculty from 1977 to 2005, serving as

• When did you join Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, and how did you get the nickname “The Kid?” GM: “Scotty, our lead singer, gave me that nickname. When I joined the band I was still in my 20s, and the other members were a bit older. After a concert one night, we went out to eat and I ordered a hot dog and fries, so Scotty said, ‘Geez, the kid wants hot dogs and fries.’ It stuck like glue.”

• Where did your passion for music begin? Glen Marhevka: “When I was in seventh grade my parents took me to a Cab Calloway concert. I was blown away by the music. I can still remember it.”

• Do you have any advice for students considering careers in music? GM: “Practice, practice, practice, and get yourself around the best teachers you can find, like the one I found at COC. Learn everything you can from the best.” • How does it feel to come home to perform? GM: “I’m so excited. I’ve been with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy for 15 years and never played in my hometown, except for a private event. I can’t wait. It will be wonderful, like a friend coming back to see old friends.”

• You attended Hart High. Can you tell us about those years? GM: “I loved Hart. Those were great years, and I had great teachers, especially the band director. He encouraged me to be in the jazz band. In fact, I’m still friends with some of the Hart musicians.” • Tell us how you chose the trumpet? Do you play other instruments? GM: “I don’t know why exactly. I just liked it. My dad plays sax and clarinet, so who knows? Maybe it was just something different. I also play piano.” Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s Glen Marhevka (right) holds an old photograph of the college

We decided to reunite Fischer with his former student. Upon returning from a recent tour, Marhevka visited the college and was visibly impressed by how the campus has changed, especially the addition of the Performing Arts Center. When he entered the music room where Fischer was leading a jazz band practice, they recognized each other immediately. They shared memories and revealed the profound respect they have for each other. Fischer presented his former student with a photo of the COC Jazz Band that was snapped in the 1980s, when Marhevka was a member. “Good memories,” Marhevka said, before handing Fischer tickets to his then-upcoming show.

of the canyons Jazz Band while reminiscing with Dirk Fischer, his former music • Did you ever go to College of the Canyons? GM: “Oh, yes, yes, yes. I owe a lot to College of the instructor at the college. Canyons. When I was at Hart, the band director told me I should go to COC and take an advanced class, so I director of the jazz band and an instructor of jazz studies. His comdid. I found an amazing teacher, Dirk Fischer, who had a positions are performed by jazz ensembles and orchestras throughAfter a tour of the Performing Arts Center, it was back to the jazz improv band. They practiced every Tuesday night, and out the world. music room, where the jazz band was waiting to practice. Fischer he took me under his wing. I was only in ninth grade at the sat down at his piano, Marhevka pulled out his trumpet, and the time, and I thought I was in way over my head because • Do you think Dirk Fischer will remember you? jazz band readied their instruments. And that’s where we left everyone in the class was much older than me. I acted silly GM: “Yes, I do. But I haven’t seen him in so long. I had to be them, making music and new memories – and undoubtedy inspir– because I was so young – but Dirk guided me and taught the youngest student he ever had!” ing a new generation of musicians.

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 • FA L L 2 0 1 0

nFL VET KaPP TO SPEaK aT HaLL OF FaME

njoy the stories, insights and witticisms of National Football League pioneer Joe Kapp as he headlines the College of the Canyons fourth Athletic Hall of Fame on Jan. 20, 2011. Kapp is a former Hart High quarterback and University of California, Berkeley head coach who helped mentor many current NFL players. Kapp is the latest in a string of prominent Athletic Hall of Fame keynote speakers that include Sparky Anderson and the late John Wooden. Kapp began his football career as a quarterback for the Hart High School Indians and transferred to Cal to play college ball. He spent four years in the NFL with the Vikings and Patriots. Notably, his stand against the league in an antitrust case helped shape many of today’s NFL contracts. This year’s inductees include: the 1993 state championship men’s golf team; women’s basketball standout Kyetra Brown; football player and current Hart High football coach Mike Herrington; women’s soccer star Kristine Marbach and football player and current San Francisco 49er, Isaac Sopoaga. “This will be another special induction ceremony for the college,” said Len Mohney, dean of athletics and physical education. “This group of student-athletes has accomplished so much and I’m proud to be honoring them as the 2011 class.” This year’s inductees have a wide range of accomplishments

and showcase the college’s wide diversity of student-athletes. The 1993 men’s golf team was the first squad to win a state title in the men’s golf program. Basketball player Kyetra Brown was one of the most talented point guards to don the Cougar uniform. Brown, who played on the 1994-95 and the 1996-97 team, was the conference player of the year and received All-State honors both seasons she played. Mike Herrington was a member of the Cougar football team from 1976-77 and remains a loyal supporter. He went on to become a pillar in the Santa Clarita Valley football community. He is in his 22nd season as head coach at Hart High School and has led the team to six California Interscholastic Federation titles. Women’s soccer player Kristine Marbach was the first Cougar to earn All-American status in the women’s program. She holds records as all-time leading scorer, career-goal and single-season goal leader. Defensive end Isaac Sopoaga was the first Cougar to earn the Western State Conference Player of the Year award in 2000 and has been a six-year veteran with the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers. His 31 sacks as a freshman at COC still stand as the single-season record in California community college football. The induction ceremony and dinner will be held at the Hyatt Regency in Valencia. For information, visit COCAthletics.com.

nFL veteran Joe Kapp began his career as the Hart High quarterback (above) in the mid 1950s.

College Hosts Soccer Championships

or the second time in as many years, College of the Canyons hosted the 2010 California Community College Athletic Association Men’s and Women’s Soccer State Championships. The college last held the event in 2008, the first time a state title soccer game was held on the College of the Canyons campus. “I am very excited the state championships come back to College of the Canyons,” athletic director Chuck Lyon said. “We had the chance to host it in 2008, and now we have a little more experience under our belt. This year’s events were another great opportunity to showcase everything College of the Canyons has to offer.” The championships, a four-day event that began Dec. 3, included a sophomore showcase, as well as semifinal and finals action. Games were held at Cougar Stadium on FieldTurf synthetic grass. The state championship featured four teams from each gender. “With eight teams coming to the Santa Clarita Valley, this event is an excellent chance for tourism dollars to be spent at the surrounding hotels and restaurants,” Lyon said. “When the event was held at the college in 2008, it also brought amazing soccer talent to the city.” The soccer playoffs began with three regional rounds in northern and southern California before the field of 56 teams from across the state were dwindled down to the top two men’s and women’s soccer squads from their respective regions. Following the semifinal round that brought each gender down to two teams, the remaining teams played on Sunday, Dec. 5 for their respective titles. Results of the championship games can be found at www.COCAthletics.com.

college of the canyons’ soccer player Michelle Malette displays her ball-handling skills during a recent match with Moorpark college.

Bakersfield College, the Cougars did get invited to a bowl game against Fullerton. In a game that featured 133 points between the two teams, COC didn’t have enough steam to keep up with Fullerton and lost 64-49.

cROSS cOunTRy For the first time since 2007, the men’s and women’s cross country teams qualified to run as teams at the state championship. Led by Natalie Malone and Kristine Alfaro, the women came in 20th place, while Ryland del Valle, who finished in 48th place, at the SoCal championships and came in 21st.

WOMEn’S GOLF FOOTBaLL The football team had trouble with the end of the season, losing three of its last four games. COC, Cerritos and Bakersfield College entered the final conference game of the season with identical 3-1 records, and COC set to play at Bakersfield. The winner of the COC/Bakersfield matchup would earn a spot in the four-team playoffs, which ended in the favor of Bakersfield. Despite losing to

The COC women’s golf team didn’t see much competition during the regular season and won the program’s seventh Western State Conference Championship. After breezing through the regular season, the Cougars finally met a team that could keep up with them in Irvine Valley at the Southern California Championship. The two teams would meet up again at the state championships, where COC took a three-stroke lead headed into the last day of competition. In the final round of play, Irvine Valley

came roaring back and turned the three-shot deficit into a four-shot lead over second-place COC.

MEn’S SOccER The men’s soccer team finished out the regular season with a seven-game win streak that moved the Cougars into third place in the Western State Conference. Canyons had struggled in the first half of the conference season with a 2-3-2 record, but the second half was a different story. COC beat every team in the conference during its second goaround with each team and played its way to a sixth seed in the playoffs.

VOLLEyBaLL After struggling in the first part of the season, the College of the Canyons volleyball team hit its stride and produced wins in the conference schedule. The Cougars earned a bid into the playoffs as the No. 12 seed and were pitted against No. 5 Santa Barbara City College. The Vaqueros proved to have too much power for COC, and the Cougars lost in straight sets 25-14, 25-21, 25-21. Visit www.COCAthletics.com for more athletics news.