BREAKING NEWS by College of the Canyons

SUMMER SESSIONS: Registration begins Monday, April 22. Sessions start June 3, June 10 and July 8. Information: www.canyons.edu.

SPRING 2013

SCHOLARLY PRESENTATION

NEW DEGREE PROGRAMS

The U.S. in the Middle East: A Century of Friendship and Hostility. FREE event. PAGE 3

Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center introduces new programs. PAGE 2

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

Nobel Laureate Chemist to Speak

he College of the Canyons Mathematics, Sciences & Engineering (MSE) Division will host 2005 Nobel Laureate Dr. Robert H. Grubbs as part of its Speakers Symposium Series. The annual speaker series gives students and community members an opportunity to meet renowned research scientists and industry experts currently working in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. In addition to learning more about each speaker’s research and area of expertise, attendees will be able to explore myriad career options in these emerging fields.

SERVING THE SANTA CL ARITA VALLE Y SINCE 1969

Summer Sessions Grow

550-Plus In-Demand ‘Core’ Class Sections Offered

his summer, students at College of the Canyons will have access to more class sections and educational opportunities than ever before, thanks in large part to restored funding levels triggered by the passage of Prop 30 in November. The 2013 summer session will include more than 550 class sections of highdemand “core” classes representing a wide range of academic subjects and disciplines. In all, the summer schedule of classes represents a roughly 15 percent increase

See SPEAKERS on Page 6

over summer 2012, and will provide seats for more than 18,000 students. The majority of class sections will be made up of courses that most students need to either graduate, transfer to a four-year university or meet prerequisites, providing an excellent opportunity for students to get a jump-start on course work before the fall semester in August. In addition, a number of elective and See SUMMER on Page 5

TEDx FOCUSES ON CONNECTIVITY H

April 18 Event to Share ‘Ideas Worth Spreading’

Dr. Satinder Dhiman

John Makevich

Barbara Goldberg

John Milburn

John Lewis Parker

Raimone Roberts

Daylene Meuschke

connectivity

aving developed a reputation across the state as an institution where innovation thrives, College of the Canyons will take those efforts one step further with TEDxCollegeoftheCanyons on April 18. “Ideas worth spreading” is the mission behind TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) and the independently organized TEDx events that have been inspiring audiences. Held in Long Beach, the annual TED conference is traditionally focused on a central theme or idea and has featured a wide range of high-profile and influential speakers – among them Bill Clinton, Tim Berners Lee, Bill Gates and Jane Goodall – who have captivated audiences with their thought-provoking, inspirational speeches. Renowned in academic and intellectual circles, TED conferences have been described by attendees as “the ultimate brain spa” and “a four-day journey into the future, in the company of those creating it.” College of the Canyons will make its first venture into the world of TEDx with TEDxCollegeoftheCanyons, an independently organized event licensed by TED and focused on the topic of connectivity – specifically how connected communities can increase the See TEDx on Page 5

Grant to Help Latino Engineering Students

hen Jose Chavarria and Dasun Hemachandra arrived in Fort Worth, Texas for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers Conference in November, they couldn’t believe their luck. The two College of the Canyons engineering students met up with a professional engineer who dispensed advice and tips on how to network at the conference. With the engineer’s advice, the students navigated the conference and met other professional engineers and representatives from companies such as Boeing and Northrop Grumman. What Chavarria learned proved to be indispensable during a recent job interview. “What I learned at the conference helped me with how to dress and what to do on a job interview in an See GRANT on Page 2

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

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

ECRWSS

Postal Customer

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university Center Introduces New Degree programs

he Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center at College of the Canyons will introduce four new degree programs (see box at right) in a continued effort to provide a wide variety of advanced degree courses in the Santa Clarita Valley. “These advanced degree programs are introduced in response to demands from students and the community’s need for qualified professionals in the fields of nursing and the biological sciences,” said Cathy Ritz, chief operating officer for the College of the Canyons Foundation and University Center operations. Since it opened its doors in 2002, the University Center has strived to offer students the opportunity to earn advanced degrees without leaving the Santa Clarita Valley. More than 1,700 students have grad-

NEXT OpEN HOuSE University representatives will be on hand to answer your questions. 4 TO 7 P.M. THURSDAY, APRIL 18 Information: (661) 362-5150 uated with degrees from Brandman University, California State University Bakersfield, California State University Los Angeles, California State University Northridge, National University and University of La Verne. The current 110,000-square-foot facility – which opened in 2009 – continues to offer bachelor’s, master’s and credential/certificate programs from various public and private universities, all of which have received approval and

accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. 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 student access to advanced degrees by forging partnerships with surrounding four-year colleges and universities. Those institutions then make their academic programs available to students through courses offered on the Valencia campus of College of the Canyons. For more information about the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center or to view a lineup of university partners and degree and certificate programs, visit www.cocuniversitycenter.com or call (661) 362-5474. A full list of universities and programs can be found on Page 3.

NEW DEGREE PROGRAMS • Bachelor of Science in Biology California State University, Los Angeles Launches fall 2014 • Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration California State University, Bakersfield Launches fall 2013 • Bachelor of Arts in Sociology California State University, Bakersfield Launches fall 2014 • Doctor of Nursing Practice Brandman University Launches January 2014

Measure M at Work

Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook (top, at right) speaks March 14 during the official groundbreaking ceremony for the new 46,000-squarefoot Student Services & Administration Building. An artist’s rendering (right) depicts how the new building will look when completed in early 2015.

Ground Broken for New Student Services Building

ollege and community dignitaries gathered for a ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Student Services and Administration Building on March 14. The event officially marked the start of construction for the 46,000square-foot facility. Demolition of the previous A Building began in December and concluded before the start of the spring semester. The new building will rise at the same location.

Included on the new building’s first floor will be an expanded Admissions & Records Office featuring new computer labs and kiosks for student use, along with an official “welcoming center” to help ensure students and campus visitors find their way. Plans also call for a new Financial Aid Office, and expanded switchboard and mailroom area. The second floor will house additional computer kiosks, along with several key student service departments such as

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engineering environment,” said Chavarria, who is planning on transferring to a four-year school next semester to study mechanical engineering. The trip and experience was made possible thanks to the college’s AIMS2 (Attract, Inspire, Mentor and Support Students) program that was launched in 2012 through a sub award granted to College of the Canyons by California State University, Northridge’s (CSUN) College of Engineering and Computer Science. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, this grant is a Hispanic Serving Institutions-STEM grant awarded to CSUN to help to support the success and transfer of Latino and low-income engineering students studying at COC. “CSUN approached several community colleges that would be interested in helping them increase the number of Latino and low-income graduates from their competitive Engineering and Computer Science programs,” said Susan Crowther, MESA program director at the college. “College of the Canyons and Glendale Community

Counseling, the Transfer Center and the Career Center. Additional space has been set aside to accommodate the Student Services, Instruction, and Public Information offices. “The ability for students to apply and register for classes, check the status of their financial aid disbursements, meet with a counselor, explore their transfer options or research a new career path – all in one location – will be more convenient, and time efficient, than ever before,” said

College expressed interest and both colleges are working with CSUN to make their goal a reality.” The $590,000 grant – to be dispersed over the course of five years – will provide AIMS2 scholars with tutoring, mentoring and academic success workshops to ensure they transfer successfully to a four-year school. AIMS scholars also receive a stipend every semester, have individual appointments with COC faculty members about their career goals and partake in special events and field trips, including the CSUN Project Design Showcase, CSUN Tech Fest, leadership training and an engineering boot camp. Over the summer, five AIMS2 scholars did research internships at CSUN. Recently, 10 AIMS2 scholars took a field trip to Glendale Community College in order to see the college’s planetarium and participate in engineering skill-building sessions in groups. “This grant is not only uniting three campuses but it is also making transferring to a four-year school a seamless transition for our AIMS2 scholars,” said Crowther. “We are very happy to be part of this collaboration.” For more information about the AIMS2 program, visit www.ecs.csun.edu/aims2.

Michael Wilding, assistant superintendent-vice president of student services. “By providing increased access to these services, it’s our hope that students will be able to seek out and explore even more of the academic, job training and career opportunities available at COC.” The roughly $17.8 million project will be paid for with a combination of Measure M general obligation bond funds and state matching funds. The building is expected to be completed in early 2015.

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 367square-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

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scholarly presentation examines U.s. in Middle east

ollege of the Canyons professor, activist and scholar Dr. Ali Akbar Mahdi will present a sociological analysis of the century-long history of political challenges, regional crises and ongoing hostilities associated with U.S. interests in the Middle East during the spring 2013 Scholarly Presentation at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center on April 17. Entitled “The U.S. in the Middle East: A Century of Friendship and Hostility,” the presentation will begin with a geographical explanation of the region, as well a brief overview of the United States’ historical background with several key Middle Eastern nations, including Iran, Iraq and Israel. “The United States has been involved in the Middle East since the late 19th century,” Mahdi said. “Whether it be establishing a military footing in the region, attempting to engineer social change, or simply securing an interest in the region’s vast oil reserves, the U.S. has had longstanding interests in maintaining its influence in this part of the world.” Mahdi will then discuss several of the most current and politically relevant issues

sCHolarly preseNtatioN

THE U.S. IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons 6 P.M. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17 FREE Admission

a Century of Friendship & Hostility

facing the U.S. today, including some of the altering points of view and criticisms other nations cite concerning contradictions of current U.S. foreign policy. “The Middle East is a diverse region in which our continued interests face serious challenges as we approach countries with different traditions, cultures and national interests,” Mahdi said. “Our policies and relationships in the Middle East have often appeared contradictory, and as a result the U.S. is sometimes viewed as hypocritical.” Other areas of focus will include: • the Iranian nuclear program • ending wars in Afghanistan and Iraq • Islamic extremists and jihadist groups

Dr. Ali Akbar Mahdi College of the Canyons Professor Activist and Scholar

See SCHOLARLY on Page 4

Need a Job? We Can Help!

ollege of the Canyons and The Signal will host two Job & Career Fairs – one at each campus – in April and May. Both events are free to all students and community members. The events are scheduled:

Board Appoints Zimmer to Open Seat

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 24 Valencia Campus, Student Center • 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 8 Canyon Country Campus Carl A. Rasmussen Amphitheater

For more information, call Career Services at (661) 3623286 or visit www.canyons.edu/careercenter. STEVEN D. ZIMMER

he Santa Clarita Community College District Board of Trustees has appointed attorney and former Newhall Land executive Steven D. Zimmer to Seat 5. The appointment was made Jan. 14 following a special board meeting during which 13 applicants were interviewed. “The number and quality of candidates who applied for this position were impressive,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “It was an honor for our district to have such a field of outstanding community members desire to serve on the board.”

Zimmer fills the seat vacated by Scott Wilk, who was elected to the State Assembly in November. “I personally look forward to the dynamism Mr. Zimmer will bring to the board as we enter an extraordinarily busy and exciting time here at College of the Canyons,” Dr. Van Hook added. A longtime resident of the Santa Clarita Valley, Zimmer served as an executive at The Newhall Land and Farming Co. from 1999 to 2011. He operates his own law practice and serves on the boards of several community service organizations, including the COC Foundation.

Need an advanced degree? Look no further! The Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center offers bachelor’s, masters, doctoral and credential/certificate programs from a variety of public and private universities. The center eliminates the need to commute to distant campuses and allows students to complete their first two years at College of

the Canyons, then transfer to their program of choice without leaving the Valencia campus. As of December 2012, 1,781 students have graduated from University Center degree programs. The center’s six partner universities oﬀer a variety of programs, including:

Brandman University

California state University, Bakersﬁeld

University of la Verne

B.a. in applied studies B.a. in Criminal Justice B.a. in legal studies B.a. in psychology B.a. in social science B.s. in social Work B.s. in Computing technologies M.a. in psychology, Marriage & Family therapy M.a. in education, early Childhood ed. leadership Doctor of Nursing practice

B.a. in Communications B.a. in english B.a. in liberal studies B.a. in public administration B.a. in sociology

B.a. in Business administration B.s. in Child Development B.s. in organizational Management single subject/Multiple subject teaching Credential special education level i and ii Credential ClaD/Ctel Certiﬁcate program M.ed. special emphasis M.a. in Business administration M.s. in special education M.s. in school psychology M.s. in leadership Management M.s. in ed. Counseling; pupil personnel services: school Counseling Credential M.ed. in ed. Management; preliminary administrative services Credential

California state University, los angeles B.s. in engineering with emphasis in Manufacturing B.s. in Biology

California state University, Northridge M.p.a. in public administration M.s.W. in social Work

National University B.a. in sport psychology B.s. in Nursing B.s. in paralegal studies applied Behavior analysis Certiﬁcate program Master of Criminal Justice

Information: (661) 362-5474 or cocuniversitycenter.com

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College Mourns Loss of Jazz pioneer Dirk Fischer R

Dirk Fischer conducts the COC Jazz Band (top) during the Alumni Barbecue in 2002, conducts the band in an undated photo (above, left), and meets with former student Glen Marhevka (above, right), who went on to become the lead trumpeter for Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. The Music Department will perform a tribute to Fischer during its annual pOpS! Concert on May 3.

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• ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict • U.S. response to Arab Spring • current challenges in countries such as Syria, Libya, Egypt and Bahrain. “It is clear that the United States has had to deal with numerous regional crises, contradictory demands from allies, and difficult challenges from forces opposed to our presence in the region,” Mahdi said. “As a result, the U.S. engagement in the Middle East has become much more tasking than ever imagined. So today we find ourselves in a very difficult situation.” Mahdi is a critical sociologist specializing in the political economy of change, gender and development in the Middle East. He received his Ph.D. and master of arts in sociology from Michigan State University, and a bachelor of arts in sociology from The

National University of Iran in Tehran. In addition to teaching at College of the Canyons, he is an adjunct faculty member at California State University, Northridge, and professor emeritus of sociology at Ohio Wesleyan University. He has taught at Michigan State University, Adrian College and Central State University. Mahdi is a former recipient of the Bishop Herbert Welch Meritorious Teaching Award at Ohio Wesleyan University (2008), the Marvin E. Olsen Service Award from the North Central Sociological Association (1994), the Teaching Excellence Award from Michigan Sociological Association (1990), the Sears Foundation Teaching Excellence and Campus Leadership Award at Adrian College (1990), and the Excellence-inTeaching Citation Award at Michigan State University (1983). He has written books such as “Culture and Customs of Iran” (co-author), “Sociology in Iran” (co-author), “Sociology

enowned musician, composer and longtime College of the Canyons jazz professor Stewart Roussin Fischer – known to most as “Dirk” – died Feb. 25 in Santa Clarita. He was 88. Fischer began his teaching career at College of the Canyons in 1977 at a time when most academic institutions had yet to fully embrace jazz studies. In fact, it was Fischer’s venture back into student life in the mid-’70s, while looking for fellow musicians to play with, that led to a chance encounter with former COC music instructor RK Downs. A few years later, he would be named COC’s first instructor of jazz studies and director of its jazz band. He dedicated 28 years to building the music department before retiring in 2005. “Dirk was equally devoted to music and teaching. He was uniquely gifted in both areas, and we were blessed that he shared those gifts so freely with us for nearly three decades,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “I will miss him greatly.” Fischer also worked extensively with other professional orchestras and student musical groups. His compositions and arrangements were performed by jazz ensembles in high schools, colleges and professional bands and orchestras throughout the U.S. and abroad. In 2010, Fischer had the opportunity to catch up with one of his most successful former students, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s lead trumpeter Glen Marhevka, who was in town to play a show at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons. “He was amazing … he is one of the most talented arrangers I’ve ever met,” Marhevka said. “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.”

‘The u.S. engagement in the Middle East has become much more tasking than ever imagined. So today we find ourselves in a very difficult situation.’ of the Iranian Family,” and “Iranian Culture, Civil Society, and Concern for Democracy.” He has written numerous articles and reviews on topics ranging from sociology of knowledge to the political economy of Iran and Islam. In addition, Mahdi is regularly interviewed by American and Middle Eastern news media, supplying expert opinion and commentary to journalists from a wide range of programs and publications. He is a frequent public lecturer and has served as executive director of the Center for Iranian Research and Analysis, editor of

Michigan Sociological Review, and president of the Michigan Sociological Association. The Scholarly Presentation is scheduled 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 17, at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center. Admission is free and open to the public. Seating will begin 30 minutes prior to the program’s start time, and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees can park free in college lots 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, located off Rockwell Canyon Road. For more information, call the COC Foundation at (661) 362-3434.

MSE Nobel Prize Winner Dr. Robert Grubbs MATHEMATICS, SCIENCES & ENGINEErING

Speakers Symposium Series

P R E S E N T S . . .

Please join us for this FREE presentation by Nobel Laureate Chemist Dr. Robert Grubbs, whose topic will be:

Fundamental Research to Commercial Products: Applications of Oleﬁn Metathesis Catalysts 7 pm Tuesday, April 30

Dr. Robert Grubbs Nobel Laureate (2005) in Chemistry California Institute of Technology, Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

Santa Clarita performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons

Information: (661) 362-3135 • www.canyons.edu/Divisions/MathSci

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Chancellor to be Honored as Distinguished Alumna

he California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) Alumni Association has selected College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook as its 2013 Distinguished Alumna for the College of Liberal Arts, in honor of her tremendous professional achievements, dedication to the field of education and ongoing contributions to the community. The CSULB 2013 Alumni Awards Banquet will be held at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach on May 9. Dr. Van Hook will be recognized as the distinguished alumna from the College of Liberal Arts, the largest of the university’s nine schools. She also has been invited to the College of Liberal Arts’ May 23 commencement, where she will be recognized before graduates and guests. “At College of the Canyons, we believe ‘if you can imagine it, you can achieve it; if you dream it, you can do it,’” she said about COC’s success. “By employing this philosophy, COC as a whole has vision, energy, commitment, flexibility and courageous leadership at every level. That, in turn, inspires us to plan and expand instructional programs, secure significant increases in funding, launch a robust building program, develop partnerships and collaborate initiatives, take risks, be entrepreneurial and believe in ourselves every day.” Dr. Van Hook graduated from CSULB in 1972 with a bachelor’s of arts in sociology. She worked as a Head Start preschool teacher during college and, after graduating, became a junior high school teacher. She went on to earn both her master’s degree and doctor-

‘If you can imagine it, you can achieve it. If you dream it, you can do it.’ DR. DIANNE G. VAN Hook

The campus of California State university, Long Beach

See CHANCELLOR on Page 7

A Foundation for Student Success ince its inception in 1987, the College of the Canyons Foundation has sought new ways to provide students with increased access to educational opportunities and an enhanced academic experience that reflects the tradition of excellence established at COC. The College of the Canyons Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) auxiliary organization that supports the Santa Clarita Community College District by generating funds to support programs dedicated to student success. For more than 25 years the foundation and its more than 10,000 donors and community partners have worked together to provide the college with the financial resources to award student scholarships, make innovative classroom and facility improvements, and offer the types of supplemental learning opportunities and student experiences that separate COC from other community colleges. “These vital resources really can make the difference between an ordinary and extraordinary college

experience for our students,” said Murray Wood, the foundation’s chief development officer. “With the continued support of our partners, College of the Canyons will remain a pillar in this community for years to come, educating everyone interested in learning and ensuring our students’ success.” In support of the college’s ongoing mission to provide all students with an accessible, enriched education, last summer the foundation launched a new, three-year fundraising initiative designed to generate $300,000 in student scholarship funds before July 1, 2014. “Now more than ever, during these challenging economic times, our students need additional financial support in order to be able to pursue their education and follow their dreams,” said Michele Edmonson, the foundation’s director of development. “We’ve tried to identify the student populations that are most in need of this support, and this See FOUNDATION on Page 7

Canyon Country Campus to Host Spring Star party

he ever-expanding universe and its stars – the double star Regulus, in particular – will be brought into focus at the Spring Star Party at the Canyon Country campus on May 3. The free event is scheduled 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Carl A. Rasmussen Amphitheater. Dr. Gerard van Belle, a Lowell Observatory astronomer, will share his findings and research on optical interferometry, in which small telescopes are used simultaneously to create a single large telescope, providing astronomers with high-resolution images of stars. A Q&A session will follow. Members of the college’s Physics/Astronomy Club, The Local Group Astronomy Club of Santa Clarita and the Burbank Astronomy Group will aim telescopes at visible celestial bodies, which attendees can view. COC astronomy professor Teresa Ciardi will lead a demonstration with the aid of star models, which children in the audience can take home. Though seating will be provided, attendees are encouraged to arrive early with blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. A portion of concession sales will be donated to the Dr. Ram Manvi Memorial Scholarship to benefit students who are majoring in mathematics, science or engineering technology.

TEDx

SUMMER

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well-being of individuals, and as a result, improve global welfare. “At COC, we have a culture of connectivity within the campus and throughout the community,” said Jia-Yi ChengLevine, COC professor and TEDx faculty advisor. “The purpose of this conference is to reach a new level of human wellbeing worldwide by challenging humanity to promote the increase of intellectual discussion and to develop new approaches and methods in connectivity.” TEDxCollegeoftheCanyons will follow TED’s format of 18-minute presentations, as well as other performances and demonstrations. Attendees will be able to view acclaimed TEDTalks videos of past speakers. Dr. Satinder Dhiman, author of “Seven Habits of Highly Fulfilled People,” will speak on connectivity in relation to oral tradition and sustainability. Other speakers include: • John Makevich, director of distance and accelerated learning at College of the Canyons • Barbara Goldberg, founder of Wells Bring Hope • John Milburn, director of the Employee Training Institute at College of the Canyons • John Lewis Parker, award-winning songwriter, producer and music executive • Raimone Roberts, chief strategy officer for Empire Construction • Daylene Meuschke, director of institutional research at College of the Canyons. TEDxCollegeoftheCanyons is scheduled 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, April 18, in Mentry Hall, Room 305, on the Valencia campus. Admission is $30. It will be hosted by the college’s TEDx Club and sponsored by COC Associated Student Government, Small Business Development Center Young Entrepreneurship Program and Logix. To register, contact Cheng-Levine at (661) 362-5806 or visit www.TEDxCollegeoftheCanyons.com. For more information about TED, visit www.ted.com.

exploratory courses – which students often use to help determine their desired educational or career tracks – have also been included in the summer schedule. The college’s first five-week summer session will run June 3 to July 5. A second eight-week session will run June 10 to Aug. 2, and the final fiveweek session has been scheduled July 8 to Aug. 16. The schedule of classes will be posted online at www.canyons.edu. A printed schedule will not be offered. Summer session registration for new students will begin May 13. A registration period for high school students in the 11th and 12th grades will begin May 22, with a final late registration period scheduled to begin May 28. Despite the increased number of class sections being offered this summer, students are still encouraged not to wait until the last minute to apply to the college and/or register for summer sessions. Classes are expected to fill quickly. Summer 2013 enrollment fees at all 112 California Community Colleges will remain at $46 per unit, as mandated by the state of California. For more information about the 2013 summer session, contact Admissions & Records at (661) 3623280 or visit www.canyons.edu.

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Abbamania

The Art Gallery Presents...

Lily Tomlin

What’s Happening at the PAC? Plenty! T his year’s Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) season at may be drawing to a close, but there are still many great shows lined up for the next three months. “This year’s PAC season has been fantastic, and I’m very excited to be part of it,” said Evy Warshawski, the center’s new executive director (see story below). “There really is no reason to leave the Santa Clarita Valley for quality entertainment thanks to the PAC.” New Works Festival – The critically acclaimed festival, directed by David Stiers, returns April 25 to 28. Celebrating its 13th year, the festival takes submissions from aspiring playwrights and puts them on stage for the first time, creating a diverse and refreshing variety of performances. Abbamania – This special concert-style performance will pay tribute to Sweden’s most famous export, ABBA, on April 26. The ’70s pop sensation made a

worldwide splash with hits such as “Dancing Queen,” “Waterloo” and “Super Trooper.” The show’s amazing singers, authentic costumes and lighting are sure to have audience members wondering if they are experiencing the real Bjorn, Benny, Agnetha and Frida. COC Dance Company – The dance troupe will share its vision of the future with “Spring Into Future: Dance 2022” on May 16 and 17. A special Q&A session will follow the performance. Lily Tomlin – The Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and comedian will perform at the PAC on June 1. Tomlin’s witty observations about the human condition have captivated audiences for generations. Tomlin got her start on the sketch-comedy show “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In” with uproarious characters such as Ernestine, Mrs. Beasley and Edith Ann. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.canyonspac.com.

New Director at performing Arts Center T

he Santa Clarita Community College District has announced the hiring of nationally recognized arts professional Evy Warshawski as its new executive director of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons. Warshawski fills the position vacated by Adam Philipson, who resigned in September to become CEO of the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank, N.J. “We are very excited to welcome Evy Warshawski to College of the Canyons,” said Joseph Gerda, assistant superintendent/vice president of instruction. “Evy is a proven arts professional with an

impressive reputation throughout the industry, who we are confident will continue to build upon the tradition of excellence that exists at the Performing Arts Center.” With more than 25 years of experience, Warshawski most recently served as executive/artistic director at the Napa Valley Opera House from 2004 to 2011. “I am so excited to be joining the team at COC, and I look forward to learning about the college and community,” she said. “My career has been focused on bringing artistic excellence to diverse communities and deepening that experience for participants of all ages.

EVY WARSHAWSKI

“Torpor Space” by Dinah Sargeant

‘Fabric paintings’ T he College of the Canyons Art Gallery will continue its spring exhibit schedule with a presentation by local painter and “narrative quilt maker” Dinah Sargeant. “Fabric Paintings,” on display through April 25, features a selection of Sargeant’s work spanning 20 years, with an emphasis on the artist’s passion for creating hand painted/collaged narrative quilts and dolls. “When I view Dinah’s quilt work, I see paintings first,” said Larry Hurst, director of the COC Art Gallery. “But closer inspection reveals the intricate stitching and collage treatment of the surfaces. Meanwhile, her dolls act as three-dimensional figures derived from those paintings. “Her works are pure magic, filled with subliminal meaning and powerful imagery,” Hurst said. Sargeant earned her master of arts in painting from Chico State University. Her work as a quilt and doll maker – stemming from her experiences painting and sewing with her mother – emerged later in her career. “I paint fabric, then search for narratives within the colors and shapes,” Sargeant said. “Between what I see and what I intuit, a story unfolds. I collage the imagery, then stitch it into quilts and dolls.” The Art Gallery is open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday. All exhibits are free. For more information, visit www.canyons.edu/artgallery. For information about the artist, visit www.dinahsargeant.com.

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Each of the scheduled speaking engagements will consist of a roughly 60minute presentation, culminating in an open-forum discussion that will allow audience members to ask questions, interact with the speakers and delve deeper into the subject matter. “Once again, we are happy to offer our students and community the opportunity to learn about a wide range of research and technological advances made in the STEM fields,” said Omar Torres, dean of the college’s MSE Division. “This year’s symposium promises to offer a variety of enhanced opportunities for guests to learn more about materials science, biobehavioral science and chemistry.” All but the final presentation are scheduled for 7 p.m. on selected Tuesdays throughout the spring semester in Boykin Hall, Room 105, on the College of the Canyons Valencia campus. The culminating event in the series is a presentation by Nobel Laureate Dr. Robert H. Grubbs, who will speak about “Fundamental Research to Commercial Products: Applications of Olefin Metathesis Catalysts.” The event is scheduled 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 30, in the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons. Grubbs received the 2005 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work in the field of olefin metathesis, which is the subject of his presentation. All presentations are free and open to the public, but seating may be limited. For more information about the College of the Canyons MSE Speakers Symposium Series, contact Torres at (661) 362-3135 or omar.torres@canyons.edu. To read full presentation abstracts and speaker profiles, visit www.canyons.edu/divisions/mathsci/.

AprIL 16

Fossil Treasures of Santa Clarita Valley Dr. Richard Squires, CSUN, Department of Geological Sciences Abstract: Rocks and their fossil contents are vastly different between the southern part (Eastern Ventura Basin) and northern part (Soledad Basin) of Santa Clarita Valley. The reason is primarily the San Gabriel Fault, which bisects the valley. Movements along this fault, as well as along the associated San Andreas Fault, juxtaposed marine (ocean) deposits in the southern part of the valley against mostly non-marine (river and lake) deposits in the northern part. Even though the two basins were created at approximately the same time, they have had very different geologic histories, which will both be examined at this presentation. AprIL 23

reward, Interrupted: Inhibitory Control & its relevance to Addictions Dr. J. David Jentsch, UCLA, Department of Psychology Abstract: Addiction is a disease. It is defined medically and scientifically as a clinically impairing pattern of compulsive and inflexible reward seeking. All addictions involve the pursuit of rewards (whether they be drugs, food, sex or thrill) that almost all humans find pleasurable, but which only a small proportion of people become addicted to. The research used in this presentation focuses on a number of important questions, while examining why, biologically, it is so hard for some to resist the attraction of drugs, even when they are trying hard to do so. A discussion of the brain mechanisms that contribute to vulnerability and resilience to addiction, along with an understanding about how brain molecules contribute to addiction will also be included. This presentation will address an assortment of issues and attempt to show how neuroscientific research can inform the social understanding of a long misunderstood disease. AprIL 30

Fundamental research to Commercial products: Applications of Olefin Metathesis Catalysts Dr. Robert H. Grubbs, Nobel Laureate (2005) in Chemistry, California Institute of Technology, Division of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering Abstract: The olefin metathesis was discovered in the 1960s as a method for the inter-conversion of hydrocarbons. The nature of the catalysts and the mechanism of the reaction was unknown. Fundamental studies of the possible mechanisms of the transformation led to the development of well-defined catalysts that would promote the transformation. Evolution of the catalyst structures resulted in the formation of a family of catalysts, based on ruthenium, that promote the reaction under practical conditions and in the presence of a variety of functionality. The availability of a catalyst that promotes scrambling of the fragments of carbon-carbon double bond by a metathesis reaction in the presence of a variety of functional groups, and under normal reaction conditions, has opened a variety of applications that range from the production of tough polymers that are seeing a variety of uses, from the production of highly functionalized pharmaceuticals. The catalysts facilitate synthesis of olefinic materials and have few side reactions. Part of their use in “green” chemistry has been their application to the conversion of renewable materials to useful chemicals.

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egistration is now open for the popular career exploration themed College of the Canyons Summer Institute, with three sessions running throughout the month of July. The College of the Canyons Summer Institute is open to students entering the seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth grades. The institute provides hands-on career exploration and learning opportunities to students in subjects such as: robotics, motion picture special effects, video game design, sports medicine, digital photography, architecture, welding and alternative energy fabrication. All Summer Institute instructors are COC professors, student teachers or industry professionals who have tailored their curriculum to junior high and high school students. Each track allows students to discover a multitude of career possibilities through a unique blend of innovative lesson plans and hands-on activities that are scheduled each week. “The COC Summer Institute is much more than your typical summer camp,” said Adriana Estrada, Summer Institute coordinator. “It’s an opportunity for your child to

All are 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. • JULY 15 TO 19 – JUNIOR HIGH • JULY 22 TO 26 – JUNIOR HIGH • JULY 29 TO AUG. 2 – HIGH SCHOOL

discover a potential career path, and have some fun at the same time. You don’t want to let your teenager miss out on this amazing experience.” The 2013 COC Summer Institute will run July 15 through Aug. 2 (see sessions information above). Enrollment fees range in price from $160 to $180 per child per week, depending on each track’s associated materials fee. For more information, visit canyons.edu/summerinstitute.

ollege of the Canyons has been selected as one of 10 community colleges nationwide to participate in Phase 2 of the Association of American Colleges and Universities Developing a Community College Student Roadmap Project. The project helps community colleges create academic support programs – tied to expected learning outcomes – that teach students how to become active partners in their quest for success. The project will “connect the dots” among the varied student support programs available at community colleges throughout the country by creating “roadmaps for success” that are applicable at multiple institutions. “Through collaboration with these institutions we can learn from their triumphs and mistakes, while improving existing programs and developing additional student support opportunities,” said Audrey Green, associate vice president of academic affairs.

FOUNDATION FROM PAGE 5

campaign will directly benefit those students.” Included in this group are veterans returning home from the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, single parents and adult re-entry students seeking to complete their education and jump-start new careers, students enrolled in Career Technical Education training programs, students pursuing degrees in a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) field, as well as other students who demonstrate a financial need, but may not necessarily qualify for other forms of student aid. The foundation will continue the scholarship campaign by hosting its 23rd Annual Golf Tournament at Valencia Country Club on Aug. 5. The event attracts more than 100 golfers annually. In addition to its ongoing scholarship campaign, the foundation also has overseen the Culinary Arts Capital Campaign to raise

funds to build a permanent, state-of-the-art building for the Institute for Culinary Education (iCuE), which will greatly expand training opportunities and student success in the culinary industry. A permanent iCuE facility would also

CHANCELLOR FROM PAGE 5

ate from the University of La Verne. As a counselor at Santa Ana College, she launched the New Horizons program, which helped re-entry students succeed. The program was later implemented at 60 California community colleges. In 1984, she became dean of instruction/student service at Feather River College, and two years later became dean of the college district at Lake Tahoe Community College. “Dr. Van Hook’s lifelong dedication to education and the leadership she has provided to College of the Canyons has positively affected the lives of tens of thousands of students,” said Diane Fiero, COC’s assistant superintendent/vice president of human resources. “She is a tireless advocate for community college education, building partnerships and community involvement. She gives freely of her time, expertise and talents in helping others realize their own potential. She is so very deserving of this honor, and we are thrilled for her.” Dr. Van Hook returned to Southern California in 1988 to become superintendent-president of COC. At 37, she became the youngest-serving California community college CEO – and one of only five women to serve as district-level CEOs for the state’s 70 community college districts. “I was fortunate to have served as the president of the Board of Trustees when the college hired Dr. Van Hook,” said Michele Jenkins, Santa Clarita Community College District board member. “At the time, I couldn’t help but smile to myself, thinking about how much of a difference she was going to make at the college, because she’s just so dynamic. “Days later, after she had been formally introduced, I asked one of our instructors what he thought about our new president, to which he replied, ‘Administrators come and go, and it won’t really make a difference who the administrator is,’ ” Jenkins said. “I simply smiled again and thought to myself, he has no idea what this woman's leadership will bring to College of the Canyons. Today, nearly 25 years later, I’m still smiling.” Dr. Van Hook is the longest-serving CEO in the California community college system – and a widely respected visionary and leader throughout the state. “Dr. Van Hook is one of the most influential women in the state. Her career working both at COC and at campuses throughout the California community college system has had a positive effect on millions of students,” said Michael Berger, president of the Santa Clarita Community College District Board of Trustees. “Her interactions and relation-

allow culinary arts students to enroll in other general-education college courses needed to earn certificates or degrees, without the inconvenience of having to travel back and forth between the current culinary facility in Castaic and the college’s campus-

‘Dr. Van Hook is a passionate visionary who is committed to uncompromising excellence...’ DORIS MARIE ZIMMER

AWARDS Among the numerous awards Dr. Van Hook has received: • Community College League of California Five Star Leader Award • Association of California Community Colleges Administrators Harry Buttimer Distinguished Administrator Award • 4CSD (California Community College Council for Staﬀ Development) Presidential Leadership Award • Network of California Community College Foundations (NCCCF) Presidential Leadership Award • North American Council for Staﬀ, Program and Organizational Development (NCSPOD) President’s Award • Phi Theta Kappa (community college honor society) Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction • Santa Clarita Valley Press Club Newsmaker of the Year • Boy Scouts of America – Leaders of Character Honoree (2007) • Betty Ferguson Foundation Woman of Honor (2009) • Fifth Supervisorial District L.A. County Woman of the Year (2009) ships with staff, students, and business and community partners inspire those around her to learn more, do more and, most importantly, dream more.” Since 1988, the college’s budget has risen from $8 million to $180.8 million, and its physical space has grown from just under 200,000 square feet to 812,000 square feet on two campuses. Student enrollment has climbed from 4,000 to a high of 27,000. COC is the sixth-largest employer in the Santa Clarita Valley, and community leaders describe the college as an “innovative, cutting-edge, responsive, flexible, resourceful, high-quality institution of higher learning.” “Our success as a college is a result of the great team of people we have in place here,” Dr. Van Hook said. “Their care for students, their innovative and entrepreneurial spirits, and their determination enable us to achieve results that others can only dream about.” Dr. Van Hook is a strong and consistent advocate for community colleges at both the state and national levels,

es in Valencia and Canyon Country. “Having a permanent on-campus culinary facility is going to make a significant difference in the lives of students who are trying to manage their time between the classroom and the kitchen,” said Cindy Schwanke, culinary arts instructor and lead iCuE faculty member. Most recently, the foundation sponsored the COC Model United Nations Team’s trip to Harvard University, where the team competed in its first national competition. Of the more than 300 colleges and universities in attendance, COC was one of only four community colleges in the nation – and the only one from California – that participated. “Being able to provide our students with the opportunity to push themselves academically and grow as individuals, while representing College of the Canyons on a national stage, was truly rewarding,” added Wood. For more information about the foundation, visit www.canyonsfoundation.org or call (661) 362-3434.

with her leadership recognized by a wide range of organizations (see “Awards” at left). She has received every statewide recognition that can be bestowed on a California community college CEO. “Dr. Van Hook is a passionate visionary who is committed to uncompromising excellence and building the finest community learning institution possible. With unfailing courage, she boldly goes where many fear to even think, and her vision is regularly brought to concrete reality,” said Doris Marie Zimmer, chair of the COC Foundation’s Board of Directors. “Over the years, Dianne’s trust in her staff, students and volunteers have allowed College of the Canyons to excel, while creating cutting-edge educational opportunities for all students.” Passionately committed to higher education and its integral role in economic development, Dr. Van Hook has also led the way in forging educational and training partnerships with community organizations, government agencies and private industry to ensure that citizens possess the high-technology skills that will sustain California’s economic growth. In the community, she is actively involved with many organizations. She has served as a board member of the Red Cross, SCV Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation, United Way Executive Cabinet and the SCV Fine Arts Council, as well as the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Governance Committee and the Michael Hoefflin Foundation for Children’s Cancer Board of Directors. She helped launch the SCV Economic Development Corp., for which she still serves on its board of directors. “Dr. Van Hook's visionary leadership is evident and far reaching, but what truly sets her apart is her passion and compassion toward those around her,” COC professor Jia-Yi Cheng-Levine said. “She cares about the students at COC. She cares about the future of the Santa Clarita Valley and the academic success of local K-12 students who never attend COC. Most importantly, she cares about those who try to find a new path in their personal and professional lives by mentoring them patiently and graciously.” Herself a graduate of a community college – Long Beach City College – she is committed to creating outstanding educational opportunities for the benefit of all those served by College of the Canyons. “As someone who raised the bar of excellence for everyone around them, Dr. Van Hook is truly an inspiration to me,” said Michael Kramer, president of the College of the Canyons Associated Student Government. “Watching her immense passion for higher education and our students has helped mold me into the student leader I am today. I’m grateful to have someone like Dr. Van Hook who I can look up to for guidance in my life.”

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District’s ‘AA’ Bond Ratings Reaffirmed T

Gumps Honored for Community Service

Barry and Pati Gump, the driving force behind the family business Andy Gump Inc., were honored with the college’s Silver Spur Award for Community Service during a gala event at Universal Studios’ Globe Theatre (top) on March 2. Guests socialize along the 1920s-era London Street (above, left). Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook (above, right) speaks to the crowd before posing with the Gumps (above, center).

he Santa Clarita Community College District’s “AA” bond ratings have been reaffirmed by Standard & Poor’s and Fitch in advance of the college’s bond refunding. In addition, the $20.4 million in outstanding certificates of participation received an affirmed “AA-” status. The agencies issued their reports in response to a resolution passed by the Santa Clarita Community College District Board of Trustees on Jan. 16 to move ahead with the refunding of a portion of the Measure C and Measure M general obligation bonds. Bond refunding is similar to refinancing a mortgage, with savings achieved from lower interest rates. The process creates the potential for millions of dollars in savings to be passed on to local property owners in the form of lowered property taxes. The “AA” rating is in keeping with most other community colleges and K-12 school districts across the state. By comparison, the state of California’s general obligation bonds have an “A” rating. Standard & Poor’s rating was based on: • strong available general fund reserves • low-to-moderate overall debt with no additional debt plans The Fitch rating was based on: • improved long-term financial prospects based on the passage of Proposition 30 and the elimination of mid-year budget cuts • a strong economic base in the SCV “The ‘AA’ ratings underscore the college’s commitment to strong fiscal management despite severe state funding cuts due to the recession,” said Sharlene Coleal, vice president of business services. “The future for education is bright and we look forward to continuing to be a good partner with our community.”

MEETING THE CHALLENGES OF A CHANGING WORLD...

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

Please consider joining us!

achieve, by working together, much more than we can by working alone.

• Call the College of the Canyons Foundation at (661) 362-3435 • Visit canyonsfoundation.org and click the Support Groups button

CHAMPION AT&T Morton Manufacturing Inc. LEADER Boston Scientiﬁc Neuromodulation Honda Performance Development Inc. Mark Jenkins and Roxie Ramey

SoCal Edison – Anna Frutos-Sanchez ADVOCATE Aerospace Dynamics International AMG & Associates – Albert M. Giacomazzi AM – Touch Dental Bradley J. Kirst D.D.S. Inc. Gary and Diana Cusumano

Haas Automation Inc. Andrew and Elisa Horowitz Dr. Susan Komsky Math Support Services Inc. Jim and Jill Mellady Mitzi and Randy Moberg Dr. Skip Newhall NE Systems Inc. – Ed Padilla

Harold and Jacquie Petersen Shepard Insurance Agency Dr. Dianne and Mr. Roger Van Hook Wells Fargo LIFETIME MEMBERS Lou and Rita Garasi Tom and Colleen Lee