BREAKING NEWS

VINEYARD PLANTED AT COLLEGE

FIRST SCULPTURE INSTALLED

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news BREAKING

SUMMER 2014

STUDENTS NAMED TO ALL-CALIFORNIA ACADEMIC TEAM PAGE 2

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS • MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE SINCE 1969

COLLEGE TO DEBUT THIS FALL GET READY FOR FALL! WEEKEND New program designed for busy, working adults

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ne of the largest fall semesters in recent history is in the works at College of the Canyons, which will offer students nearly 6,000 class sections.

The college now offers 76 associate degree programs, most of which transfer to four-year universities, as well SEMESTER STARTS AUG. 25 as 70 certificate programs.

TOTAL CLASS SECTIONS: 5,976 “There’s no better time to ADMISSIONS: (661) 362-3280 take advantage of these educational opportunities,” said Jerry Buckley, assistant superintendent/vice president of instruction. “This is one of the most robust selections of classes I’ve seen.”

Explore the schedule of classes at www.canyons.edu.

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ollege of the Canyons will launch a new learning option that will give working adults an opportunity to complete their general-education courses required to transfer.

It’s called Weekend College, and it will debut during the fall 2014 semester at the Canyon Country campus.

How does it help those who work and may not think they have time for higher education? Weekend College classes are held every other Saturday, but most coursework is completed online.

Students enroll in a predetermined schedule of courses that meet CSU and UC transfer requirements. They take two classes at a time in a condensed eight-week format and finish four classes a semester.

The Details

Weekend College offers a predictable schedule, with guaranteed classes – and only classes needed to transfer.

Here’s the most exciting part: Students can complete classes needed to transfer in just one year.

Weekend College also is a great way for new students to begin their college careers. Many first-time freshmen haven’t chosen a major, or they’re unsure which classes to take. Weekend College removes the guesswork. It ensures you take only the general-education classes required for an associate degree. And, with fees at $46 per unit, it’s affordable too.

So, how can you get started? Visit canyons.edu/weekendcollege for details on submitting an application and completing assessment testing and online orientation.

10th Anniversary Season

A DECADE OF OUTSTANDING ENTERTAINMENT O

LEANN RIMES

DAVE MASON

PAULA POUNDSTONE

BOBBY MCFERRIN

JACK HANNA

ARLO GUTHRIE

MAVIS STAPLES

ffering audiences a “Season of Celebration,” the 2014-15 Season at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons will feature a wealth of worldclass talent for audiences of all ages to experience and enjoy.

“The PAC’s 10th Anniversary Season of programs has been carefully crafted to offer our (661) 362-5304 valued patrons a wealth of canyonspac.com artistic options from which to choose,” said SEE SEASON Evy Warshawski, execuON PAGE 5 tive director of the PAC. “I invite you to join us as participants in this season, and engage in all that the PAC brings to this community.

“This will definitely be a year-long birthday party that you won’t want to miss,” Warshawski said.

Throughout the 10th Anniversary Season, local residents will have the opportunity to experience an exciting and eclectic mix of internationally acclaimed

Tickets

SEE PAC ON PAGE 5

OCT. 15, 2004 – OPENING NIGHT FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

2014 GRADUATING CLASS LARGEST IN COC HISTORY

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

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ollege of the Canyons honored its 2014 graduating class – the largest in college history – during the 45th annual commencement ceremony at the Valencia campus on June 6.

The class of 2014 had 1,343 students who petitioned for graduation, representing a roughly 2 percent increase over 2013’s 1,317 graduates.

The 2014 class represented 85 majors, with accounting ranking as the leading field of study with 153 graduates, followed by nursing (99), psychology for CSU transfer (71), administration of justice (71), liberal arts and sciences (68) and biological and physical sciences (63 students).

Sixty students graduated with two degrees, and two students earned three degrees.

The class of 2014 was 59 percent male (793) and 41 percent SEE COMMENCEMENT ON PAGE 6

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

ECRWSS

Postal Customer

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • SUMMER 2014

4 STUDENTS NAMED ALL-CALIFORNIA

News Briefs

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n recognition of their academic achievements, demonstrated leadership abilities and commitment to community service, College of the Canyons students Craig Dermody, Ryan McPeters, Shawnee Stump and Jessie Warme have been named to the 2014 Phi Theta Kappa All-California Community College Academic Team.

The four COC students were among the 75 California community college students who were selected for this honor in April.

In addition to receiving the Phi Theta Kappa team honors, Dermody was also named the Coca-Cola Foundation Gold Scholar and received a $1,500 scholarship.

“I am very proud of these student’s accomplishments,” said Miriam Golbert, Phi Theta Kappa advisor and biology department chair. “They represent the best of the 2 million students enrolled in California’s 113 community colleges. This win rewards their outstanding academic efforts along with their deep commitment to community service, two of the Phi Theta Kappa major hallmarks.”

The college’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter (Alpha Nu Xi) was also honored with a Distinguished Chapter Officer Team Award, along with 29 other chapters, at NerdNation 2014, Phi Theta Kappa’s annual convention held in Orlando, Florida from April 24-26. The college’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter also won the Distinguished Chapter Award and Distinguished Honors in Action Project Award.

Students work during the whole year researching and writing a scholarly research paper worthy of entering these awards,” said Golbert. “They utilize their research to develop a project that would benefit the college and the community. Their project this year was ‘Green Infrastructure’ with a presentation to the City Council about ideas on how the Santa Clarita Valley can conserve water.”

Phi Theta Kappa chapter officer

STUDENTS HELP BUILD HOMES FOR VETS

The Fine Print Students who would like to join Phi Theta Kappa must: • have completed at least 12 units of transferable coursework; • maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5; • adhere to the moral standards of Phi Theta Kappa; • receive an invitation to join from the campus chapter.

MORE INFORMATION: Miriam Golbert: miriam.golbert@canyons.edu www.canyons.edu/offices/honors/phithetahome.asp teams are chosen based on the team’s demonstration of exceptional teamwork, leadership, Phi Theta Kappa society engagement and enthusiasm for the Hallmarks of the Society (Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Fellowship).

Phi Theta Kappa is the largest honor society in American higher education with more than 2 million members and 1,300 chapters located in all 50 of the United States, U.S. territo-

ries, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Germany, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, United Arab Emirates and Palau.

The organization’s mission is to recognize and encourage the academic achievement of two-year college students, while providing opportunities for individual growth and development through participation in honors, leadership, service and fellowship programming.

Twenty students from the college’s chapter of the National Student Nurse Association (NSNA) took part in the Habitat for Humanity Sylmar Veteran “Enriched Neighborhood” project, which is dedicated to building new homes for U.S. veterans. As part of the project, 12 new homes were built for low-income veteran families. The chapter’s mission is to mentor students preparing for initial licensure as registered nurses and to convey the standards, ethics and skills they will need as responsible, accountable members of the nursing profession.

COLLEGE TO WELCOME ACCREDITATION TEAM

College of the Canyons will host a team from the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) for a site visit and peer review Sept. 29 through Oct. 2. The visit is part of the college’s multi-year self-study and application process to reaffirm accreditation. The Accreditation Team will review the college’s adherence to set standards of good practice, while providing an analysis of the overall quality of programs and services. Accreditation is a voluntary process to evaluate and assure the quality of education. The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) is composed of three separate western region commissions that monitor and evaluate institutions of higher education. The commission responsible for community colleges is the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC). The college’s accreditation was last reaffirmed in 2009, with the commission conferring its highest status and commending the college for its strong commitment to student success, collaborative governance, fostering of community partnerships, and wide array of student support services.

ADULT RE-ENTRY INFORMATION SESSIONS

The College of the Canyons Adult Re-Entry Program has scheduled two information sessions for adults considering returning to college. The sessions will provide prospective and returning students with a variety of information and resources, such as the wide variety of degree and certificate programs available, transfer requirements, assessment information, campus resources and online services. Representatives from the University Center, Job & Career Center, Student Business Office, EOPS (Extended Opportunity Programs & Services) and DSPS (Disabled Students Programs & Services) will also be on hand to provide information. Sessions are scheduled 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 17 at the Canyon Country campus, Quad 400, and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 24 at the Valencia campus, Hasley Hall, Room 234. For more information, call (661) 362-3469.

STUDIO JAZZ ENSEMBLE RACKS UP AWARDS

FIRST NURSING HONOR SOCIETY CHAPTER

The College of the Canyons Studio Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of KC Manji, has been crowned community college-level state champions in the Third Annual California Jazz (CAJ) State Championships.

Unique in its format, the CAJ Championships require groups to upload videos of recorded festival performances, which are then judged by a panel of jazz educators. With no travel or lodging expenses to consider, the competition attracts bands of all skill levels and sizes from across the state. Prior to its state championship run, the Studio Jazz Ensemble was also awarded third place for its performance at the 52nd Annual Reno Jazz Festival. As is usually the case, this year’s competition was quite rigorous, with bands traveling from as far as Pennsylvania to compete in the prestigious music festival. The ensemble received many positive comments from the judges of both competitions.

College of the Canyons students establish first chapter in California

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ith the leadership of nursing faculty advisers Mary Corbett and Rachel Houghton, College of the Canyons nursing students have established the Gamma Eta Chapter of the Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honor Society. This is the first chartered chapter of this nursing honor society in California.

This would not have happened without the hard work of nursing students who formed the founding leadership, wrote the constitution, and moved through the required steps on campus and with the national organization, said Cynthia Dorroh, division dean of allied health and public safety.

With national approval received in the final weeks of the spring 2014 semester, an induction ceremony was quickly put together to allow the completing nursing students the opportunity to be inducted and receive certificates, pins, and cords reflecting membership while they were still students.

The ceremony was held Monday, June 9, with 41 students eligible and a gathering of family and friends present. Announced during the ceremony was the fact that this was a historic moment, with the first-ever nursing students inducted into this honor society not only at College of the Canyons, but in the entire state of California.

news BREAKING

The Fine Print Nursing students who would like to join Alpha Delta Nu must: • have attained a 3.0 GPA in all nursing courses; • have maintained a 3.0 GPA in all nursing courses; • have demonstrated conduct of integrity and professionalism.

MORE INFORMATION: (661) 362-5438

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

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • SUMMER 2014

FIRST SCULPTURE

First of 12 Simi Dabah sculptures installed

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he first of a dozen welded-metal sculptures designed by artist Simi Dabah has been installed in the College Circle Garden at the Valencia campus, directly in front of the Student Services & Administration Building, which is nearing completion.

It’s all part of a campus-beautification project now under way at both the Valencia and Canyon Country campuses. The sculptures were designed and created by Dabah, a Southern California-based artist who generously donated them to the college for permanent installation.

Welded from pieces of industrial scrap metal, Dabah’s sculptures have been praised for being both friendly to the environment and inspirational to the viewer. A self-taught artist/welder, Dabah has been creating the sculptures from industrial scrap for more than 40 years.

The first sculpture, chosen for its resemblance to the college’s logo, was installed in late May. Additional sculptures will be installed at both campuses in coming months. Installation locations at the Valencia campus include the Performing Arts Center, University Center, Library, TLC, Mentry Hall, Towsley Hall, Honor Grove and Vineyard. Canyon Country campus locations include the Applied Technology Education Center, Quad 1, Veterans Garden and Carl A. Rasmussen Amphitheater.

UNIVERSITY CENTER HELPS STUDENTS ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS J uggling motherhood, work and school was a challenge for Zimry Contreras, but thanks to the flexibility of her professors and her coursework, the single mother graduated from Brandman University with a bachelor’s degree in social science in May. “It feels amazing to finish school,” said Contreras, who plans to work with at-risk youths as a social worker. “My daughter is my hero. She is the one who inspired me to continue studying. Anything is possible.”

When her daughter was born, Contreras stopped attending undergraduate classes at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) to raise her. When Contreras reapplied six years later, she found herself wait-listed for classes due to state budget cuts and impacted classes.

“I didn’t want to wait,” said the Granada Hills resident, who, in desperation to finish her studies, considered commuting to California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), but classes were impacted there as well.

At the suggestion of her sister-in-law, Contreras looked into the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, which turned out to be the perfect fit.

Cited as the college’s solution to the lack of upper divi-

sion, graduate school and continuing education programs in the area, the University Center was established to expand student access to advanced degrees by forging partnerships with surrounding four-year colleges and universities. Those institutions make their academic programs available to students through courses offered at the Valencia campus center.

Contreras enrolled in evening classes, which allowed her to work and take her daughter to school. She also took several online classes but preferred being in a classroom.

“There are often about 300 students in a classroom at most four-year colleges and the professor probably doesn’t know your name,” said Contreras. “But at the University Center, I had about 25 to 30 classmates. I was able to have a one-on-one relationship with my professors. Brandman was like my family.”

Since it opened its doors in an interim facility in 2002, the University Center has offered students the opportunity to earn advanced degrees without leaving the Santa Clarita Valley.

Tyson Pursley, who is earning his master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Brandman, chose to study at the University Center because of its proximity to his

Stevenson Ranch home.

“Studying at the University Center allowed me to work and spend time with my family,” said Pursley, an aerospace worker who took evening classes. “I didn’t have to sacrifice a lot of family time because I didn’t have a long commute.”

Pursley, who will graduate in August, also enjoyed the University Center’s small classroom size.

“It was nice to have the same group of people in all of my classes and know that we were all going in the same direction,” said Pursley, who also earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University Center.

To date, more than 2,100 students have graduated from the University Center with advanced degrees from Brandman University, Cal State Bakersfield, Cal State Northridge, National University and University of La Verne.

The 110,000-square-foot facility offers bachelor’s, master’s, and credential/certificate programs from a collection of universities, all of which have accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

For information, visit www.cocuniversitycenter.com or call (661) 362-5474.

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

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

INFORMATION (661) 362-5474

www.cocuniversitycenter.com

Brandman University

Cal State Bakersfield

University of La Verne

CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS Autism BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS Applied Studies Applied Studies, Supply Chain Systems Criminal Justice Criminal Justice, Corrections Criminal Justice, Homeland Security Criminal Justice, Leadership Criminal Justice, Victim Advocacy Criminal Justice, Forensics Legal Studies Psychology Social Science Social Work Computing Technology, Project Mgmt.

Computing Technology, Info.Technology Computing Technology, Bus. Systems Admin.

MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS Leadership in Early Childhood Development Psychology, Marriage & Family Therapy Psychology, MFT & Prof. Clinical Counseling Psychology, Professional Clinical Counseling DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS Nursing Practice

BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS Communications English Liberal Studies Public Administration Sociology

BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS Business Administration Child Development Organizational Management

Cal State Northridge MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS Public Administration – MPA Social Work – MSW

National University BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS Sport Psychology Nursing Paralegal Studies CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS Applied Behavior Analysis MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS Criminal Justice

CREDENTIAL PROGRAMS Mild/Moderate Ed. Specialist, Level I & II Multiple-Subject Teaching Preliminary Administrative Services Pupil Personnel Services Single-Subject Teaching CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS CLAD/CTEL MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS Business Administration – MBA Education, Advanced Teaching Educational Counseling Educational Leadership Leadership Management Special Education School Psychology

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • SUMMER 2014

YES, IT’S A VINEYARD!

California Zinfandel grape vines take root at Valencia campus

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or nearly 45 years College of the Canyons has cultivated an unequalled reputation for providing access to higher education, job training and, by extension, opportunity. But with the addition of a recently installed vineyard at the Valencia campus, that reputation may soon include a nod toward viticulture.

Situated among the slopes located in the western section of campus, the college’s new vineyard includes highquality California Zinfandel grape vines, which were donated to the college by Remo Belli Vineyards in Paso Robles, and transplanted by local vintners and friends of the college Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper of Pulchella Winery and tasting room.

“The addition of a vineyard to our Valencia campus couldn’t come at a better time,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook said. “It will perfectly complement the culinary arts facility we are building, creating unique learning opportunities for our students.”

The installation began Feb. 1, with Lemley and Hasper transporting and replanting the 50-year-old vines – establishing College of the Canyons as one of the only Southern California community colleges to maintain an operational vineyard. Those original vines were cloned and planted during the spring, significantly augmenting

the new vineyard.

The newly installed vines “hold quite a bit of history,” Lemley and Hasper said, having originally been planted by famed Central California viticulturist Richard Sauret for Remo Belli Vineyards in 1969.

Hailed as one of the godfathers of vineyard management for the Central Coast, Sauret is widely credited for pioneering the start of Paso Robles grape farming in many ways, with his grapes still garnering awards nearly 45 years later.

Now, that rich legacy will have the opportunity to take root at College of the Canyons.

“We are very excited to be able to transplant and manage these vines, which have such a rich history, and are associated with an area we are so familiar with,” said Lemley, co-owner of the Pulchella Winery and tasting room, which recently relocated their crush pad facility and tasting room from Paso Robles to downtown Newhall.

Recognizing the unique opportunity to play a role in the development of the college’s new vineyard, local winemaker Robert Reyes, owner and operator of Reyes Winery in Agua Dulce, donated an additional set of grape vines to the college.

Those vines were planted along the hillside overlooking the original vineyard site in June.

“This vineyard is a testament to the power of partnerships,” Dr. Van Hook said. “It is proof that we can do more together than we can alone. Remo and his wife Ami, Nate, Steve and Robert are amazing supporters of College of the Canyons, and we are proud to be the recipient of their generosity and selfless service.”

Although Pulchella Winery has volunteered to oversee the vineyard for the next several months, that responsibility will eventually be handed over to students and faculty at the College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education (iCuE).

In addition to the multitude of classroom curriculum applications that the vineyard could potentially create for students enrolled in culinary arts and/or wine studies, the college will also be able to surplus portions of its annual grape harvest to local winemakers looking to blend the grapes with their own.

Proceeds received from the surplus can then be used to augment the college’s annual budget and help fund operational costs, while providing students and community members with increased access to educational and workforce training opportunities.

NEW DIRECTOR FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS PROGRAM C ollege of the Canyons faculty member Dr. Jia-Yi Cheng-Levine has been named interim director of the International Students Program (ISP) – a position that has already taken the vivacious new leader around the world in an effort to better inform international students about the educational opportunities available at College of the Canyons.

In her new role, Cheng-Levine will provide administrative oversight to all ISP operations, while managing all development and support operations, enrollment management activities, partnership initiatives, marketing campaigns and other student support services available to international students.

“This program has room to grow and we’re moving at a very quick rate,” Cheng-Levine said.

“I was already in China on my first official day of

work. We’re making connections and building relationships with educational organizations all over the world, and we are on the right path to making COC a globally recognized institution.”

Originally formed in 1997, the program provides international students with an academic and cultural support system, ensuring success at the college and beyond. Currently, the ISP serves students from 47 different countries.

ISP counselors work individually with students to establish meaningful academic goals and develop plans to graduate and/or transfer to fouryear institutions. ISP statistics indicate 99 percent of international students who express a desire to transfer to a four-year school actually do so.

The department also works to raise cultural awareness on campus by hosting events and activities that promote social and professional

interaction, help connect students to the surrounding community, and further the department’s goal of internationalization.

Cheng-Levine arrived at COC in 2005 as a faculty member in the English department.

During her time in the classroom she also served as the department chair, and lead faculty member for department’s English 101 course.

Cheng-Levine has also been a driving force behind several of the college’s annual events and campus/community partnerships including the TEDxCollegeoftheCanyons conference, the COC Sustainability Center and the Santa Clarita Environmental Education Consortium (SCEEC).

Since officially beginning her new position with ISP on April 1, Cheng-Levine has already traveled to Vancouver, China, Hong Kong and SEE ISP ON PAGE 6

JIA-YI CHENG-LEVINE

THE MANY MERITS OF WELDING

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he College of the Canyons Welding Technology Department and the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Western Los Angeles County Council partnered to offer eight local scouts the opportunity to earn their welding merit badges.

Welding faculty and volunteer welding instructors were on hand for an interactive morning of fun and instruction, designed to introduce participating scouts to the world of welding, while providing access to the tools, equipment, materials and training needed to earn the BSA’s welding merit badge.

The group of participating scouts were able to tour the college’s state-of-the-art welding and metal fabrication labs and use the college’s equipment.

They also learned about welding safety, common welding processes, and the variety of exciting opportunities available to students who are interested in pursuing careers in welding.

At the end of the day, each of the eight scouts completed their individual projects en route to meeting all of the requirements necessary to earn the welding merit badges.

“To be able to host this group of scouts in a structured environment where they could be exposed to the world of welding, and learn something that may lead to a potential career, is huge,” said Tim Baber, chair of the college’s welding technology department.

“This event was a win-win situation for everybody.”

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • SUMMER 2014

LEANN RIMES PAC FROM PAGE 1 acts and artists, without ever having to leave the Santa Clarita Valley.

The 2014-15 Season features: Paula Poundstone – Emmy Award-winning comedian, author and humorist, Sept. 6, 2014 Dave Mason – Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame inductee and co-founder of the band Traffic, Sept. 18, 2014 LeAnn Rimes – Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum selling country artist, Sept. 28, 2014 Mavis Staples – Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Nov. 1, 2014 Jack Hanna – Legendary wildlife expert and TV personality, Nov. 2, 2014 Stephanie J. Block – Tony Award and

Drama Desk Award nominee, March 7, 2015 2Cellos – Croatian cello virtuosos Luka Sulic and Stjepan Hauser, March 23, 2015 Arlo Guthrie – American folk singer and veteran songwriter, April 12, 2015 Bobby McFerrin – 10-time Grammy Award-winning artist, April 18, 2015 Carolina Chocolate Drops – Grammy Award-winning acoustic group, May 19, 2015 In addition, patrons will have multiple opportunities to mix and mingle with their favorite artists during meet-and-greet events, often held in support of the PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program.

The 10th Anniversary Season also includes the Arts on Campus program, as well as the Art Gallery’s 2014-15 exhibitions.

Other acts and artists visiting the PAC for the 2014-15 Season include: • Travis Brass • Orquesta de Baja California

DAVE MASON

PAULA POUNDSTONE

BOBBY MCFERRIN

JACK HANNA

• Na Lei Hulu I Ka Wekiu • Basetrack • Illusionist Jason Latimer • United Kingdom Ukulele Orchestra • Rockapella • Versa-Style Dance • Lightwire Theater • Story Pirates • Trinity Irish Dance The PAC will also host a number of college theatre, music and dance productions, as well as community performances such as “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Little Mermaid” and “The Nutcracker” (Santa Clarita Ballet); “Annie” and “The Sound of Music” (ESCAPE Theatre), and musical programs “A British Holiday,” “Mozart: Requiem” and “Defying Gravity” with Stephen Schwartz (Santa Clarita Master Chorale).

Tickets Tickets are on sale now!

PHONE

Box Office: (661) 362-5304

ONLINE

www.canyonspac.com

BOX OFFICE

Performing Arts Center 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91355 (The PAC is located at College Circle and Rockwell Canyon Road)

PERFORMING ARTS CENTER TURNS 10!

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BEFORE AND AFTER: THE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER TODAY (ABOVE) AND UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN 2002 (LEFT).

ince opening its doors in 2004, the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons has become a mainstay for world-class entertainment and performing arts education, while forging strong ties with the local community.

During the last 10 years, the PAC has welcomed more than 130 touring shows to the main stage, including a long list of legendary, award-winning headlining acts such as Paul Anka, Wayne Newton, Michael Bolton, Kenny Loggins, Pat Benatar, Three Dog Night, WAR, Chris Botti, Clint Black, Martin Short, Louie Anderson, Lily Tomlin, Anthony Bourdain, Robert Irvine and, during the last season, Wynonna Judd and the iconic Willie Nelson.

Built to help further promote the arts in the Santa Clarita Valley, the venue has become a vital joint-use facility for the college and the city, showcasing a diverse variety of professional and communitybased acts and artists and other community events, as well as the talented work of students from the college’s Fine and Performing Arts Division.

An integral part of the college’s original educational and facilities master plan for more than 30 years, the PAC first opened on Oct. 15, 2004, with a sold-out performance of the COC theatre producSEE 10 YEARS ON PAGE 6

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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • SUMMER 2014

TOP AEROSPACE FIRMS HIRING FAST TRACK GRADUATES B

ritish billionaire Sir Richard Branson’s Southern California-based The Spaceship Co./Virgin Galactic has joined a growing list of aerospace companies looking to fill their entry-level employment needs through the College of the Canyons Fast Track Institute.

The company hired Fast Track graduate Morgan Kennedy a mere three-and-a-half weeks after completing the Fast Track Institute’s CNC Machining program.

The Spaceship Co. (TSC) has established a goal to build the world’s first fleet of commercial sub-orbital spaceships and carrier aircraft in an effort to make access to space safe, reliable and affordable. In 2012, Virgin Galactic, the world’s first commercial spaceline and sister company to TSC, fully acquired the firm, bringing commercial space travel one step closer.

For many students like Morgan, the idea of being part of a team working to launch a mission into space might have been nothing more than a far-fetched, science fiction-inspired dream reserved for the ranks of NASA engineers and scientists.

But with the Fast Track Institute’s proven ability to provide aerospace firms with highly skilled employees trained in the

10 YEARS FROM PAGE 5 tion “Big River.”

Since its opening, more than 4,200 College of the Canyons students have performed there, cultivating their singing, dancing and acting skills live on stage to the delight of audiences from across the Santa Clarita Valley and beyond.

Thousands more have experienced the power of a live performance by visiting the PAC as part of its K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program.

The PAC continues to play a vital role in educating and nurturing the next generation of artists through the generous support of Patrons of the Performing Arts (POPA) members. POPA donations directly support the K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program, which promotes the developmental growth of children by exposing them to the visual and performing arts, while also collaborating with teachers and administrators in local

areas of CNC machining and manufacturing assembly processes, that dream is fast becoming a reality for more and more Fast Track graduates.

“The Fast Track Institute provides two key services,” said Pete Bellas, dean of economic development at the college.

“We help our students land well-paying jobs, and we help local companies identify the type of well-trained, highly skilled employees they’re looking to hire.”

The college also has established a working relationship with world-renowned space exploration and technology firm SpaceX, which participated in the Fast Track Institute’s postgraduation job fair and interview process.

SpaceX designs, manufactures and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft, with a goal to revolutionize space technology. The company made international headlines by becoming the first privately held company to make a cargo delivery to the International Space Station and return safely to Earth. Its Dragon spacecraft achieved that feat on May 25, 2012.

During the job fair, SpaceX representatives were so impressed with the Fast Track program and its graduates

school districts to develop enhanced arts education curricula.

Not only do POPA members help contribute to the cultural and performing arts enrichment of the Santa Clarita Valley, but they also enjoy many benefits. Members receive exclusive invitations to meet-andgreet receptions with visiting artists, concession discounts, name recognition in performance programs, and many other benefits.

“It has been amazing to see the PAC’s tremendous growth and achievements during the past 10 years,” said Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook. “The PAC has been pivotal to the education of our performing arts students and in bringing the performing arts to the local community. It is hard to imagine the Santa Clarita Valley or College of the Canyons without the PAC.” Consisting of two separate venues, the PAC features a proscenium stage with more than 900 seats and a state-of-the-art sound system, as well as the experimental Black Box Theater that can seat up to 125 people.

Thanks to the City of Santa Clarita’s $2.4

that they invited the class to its Hawthorne headquarters for a private tour and follow-up job interviews.

Graduates of the CNC Machining program have interviewed with and/or been hired by firms such as The Spaceship Co./Virgin Galactic, SpaceX, ITT Aerospace, M.S. Aerospace, Aerospace Dynamics International, True Position Technologies, Fralock and UKAM Industrial Superhard Tools.

Based on its success in recruiting and training highly skilled employees in the areas of CNC machining and manufacturing assembly processes, the Fast Track Institute hopes to establish new partnerships with firms seeking skilled workers.

“As evidenced by high placement and retention rates, both the Fast Track CNC Machining and Fast Track Assembly programs have consistently demonstrated that they deliver welltrained entry-level technicians to the region’s manufacturing companies,” said Joe Klocko, director of the college’s Center for Applied Competitive Technologies.

For more information, contact Sheryn Monheim at (661) 362-3521 or sheryn.monheim@canyons.edu.

2002 – THE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER BEGINS TO TAKE SHAPE. million contribution, the college was able to double the PAC’s seating capacity to accommodate more large-scale performances.

“The PAC has created so many wonderful memories for our students and the com-

munity through our many events and the K12 outreach program,” Warshawski said.

“It’s been an amazing start, and we’re looking forward to what the next 10 years will bring.”

CHENG-LEVINE (FRONT, SEVENTH FROM LEFT) POSES WITH HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN TAIWAN DURING A TRIP THIS PAST SPRING.

ISP FROM PAGE 4 Taiwan in an effort to help educate foreign students about the many benefits associated with attending a community college, while touting COC’s global reputation as an innovative institution of higher learning.

During her most recent trip, ChengLevine spent 16 days visiting China, Hong Kong and Taiwan in a dual role as ISP interim director, and as a delegate of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation’s Los Angeles County Trade & Investment Mission, organized by L.A.

County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich.

As a member of the delegation, she had an opportunity to meet with individual companies and organizations representing businesses interested in expanding into the U.S. market, particularly in the Santa Clarita Valley. She used the trip as an opportunity to schedule additional meetings with key Chinese policymakers and school administrators in a variety of educational settings.

Included among the stops were visits to Cheng-Levine’s alma mater, Lo-Dong High School in Taiwan, where she delivered a presentation to more than 90 students and their families about the mission of the California community college system, the

low cost of attending a community college as opposed to a four-year school, and the multitude of academic and career opportunities associated with studying at COC. “I had a circle of students standing around me and waiting to ask questions after the presentation. They couldn’t wait to learn more,” Cheng-Levine said.

Since returning from China, ChengLevine and the ISP staff have been working to develop a new eight-week American Cultural Experience & Language Learning Program for international students interested in eventually attending COC. With the program debuting this summer, the ISP department is also in need of host

families and ambassador students to help participating international students make the transition to American culture.

“By growing the International Students Program at College of the Canyons, we work to create cultural awareness on campus and in the community,” Cheng-Levine said.

“Additionally, as international students become part of the COC family, their families will want to expand their businesses to the Santa Clarita Valley, boosting our local economy and creating jobs for our residents.”

For information, call (661) 362-3580 or visit www.canyons.edu/isp.

COMMENCEMENT FROM PAGE 1 female (550), representing a 20.6 percent increase in the percentage of male graduates over 2013.

Academically, 271 students graduated with honors – requiring GPAs of 3.5 or higher – and 24 students with perfect 4.0 GPAs, granting them the status of valedictorians. The average GPA of the class of 2014 was 3.06.

The graduates’ average age was 26. The oldest was 72, with seven graduates over the age of 60. The youngest graduate was 16.

Notably, 68 veterans graduated on a day that coincided with the 70th anniversary of the historic D-Day Invasion, which occurred on June 6, 1944. Thirty-nine veterans graduated the previous year.

Also graduating were 19 international students.

Nearly 76 percent of the graduates completed at least one course at the college’s Canyon Country campus, which opened in 2007.

A RECORD 1,343 STUDENTS GRADUATED DURING THE 2014 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY ON JUNE 6.

7

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • SUMMER 2014

THE STUDENT SERVICES & ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, A MEASURE M BOND-FUNDED PROJECT, IS NEARING COMPLETION ON THE VALENCIA CAMPUS.

MEASURE M IN FULL FINANCIAL COMPLIANCE

Independent audit confirms bond funds spent properly and legally

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he Santa Clarita Community College District’s Measure M community oversight committee has accepted the findings of an independent audit confirming that management of the college’s Measure M general obligation bond is in full compliance with all laws and accountability measures set forth by the legislature and mandated by California education code.

The audit also confirmed that the Measure M financial statements present fairly the financial position of the bond and that the district has properly accounted for all bond expenditures while only spending funds on authorized bond projects.

In addition, the audit verified that bond funds were not spent on general administration or operational costs.

“We simply couldn’t have asked for a cleaner looking audit,” said Nick Lentini, chair of the district’s Measure M oversight committee.

The audit, which was performed by the firm Vavrinek, Trine, Day & Co., LLP, included both a financial and performance audit, covering the fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2013.

The firm noted no adjustments, audit findings, questioned costs, or instances of noncompliance associated with the bond – further confirming that all funds have been spent appropriately.

The firm issued an unmodified opinion, the best rating possible.

The audits were presented to the district’s Measure M Citizens’ Oversight Committee at its January 14 meeting.

“We are very pleased that College of the Canyons has achieved another clean Measure M audit, for the sixth consecutive year. The district is very proud of its reputation for

Library/TLC (The Learning Center) at the Valencia campus, and, currently, the stillresponsibly managing bond funds,” said said. “The community has entrusted us with under-construction Student Services & Sharlene Coleal, Assistant Superintendent, building the best community college ever Administration Building and the culinary arts Vice President of Business Services at the imagined. We’re making that happen by facility.

The college’s next phase of bond-funded college. “Moreover, we appreciate the dedi- leveraging Measure M bond funds to attain construction is scheduled to take place at the cation of the volunteers who serve on the the absolute maximum value possible.”

Canyon Country campus, with Measure M Citizens’ Oversight plans for three permanent buildCommittee to ensure the bond ings. proceeds are spent in accordance In fact, with the district’s $22 with what local voters approved in million bond reserve balance and 2006.” $45 million in future bonds still Local voters approved the pending, the college has already $160 million general obligation secured the money needed to qualbond Measure M, in November ify for state-matched funding and, 2006. eventually, begin additional conThe value of the bond has struction in Canyon Country. since increased to approximately Under the current state fund$232.8 million thanks to the addiing formula the college is schedtion of earned interest and roughly uled to pay roughly 15 percent of $67.5 million in state matching all pre-approved construction projfunds. ects at the Canyon Country camThe district initially issued pus, with the state then expected to $80 million in bonds in May 2007, cover the remaining balance. which was followed up with an RENDERING OF AN INTERIOR AREA OF THE STUDENT SERVICES BUILDING Such a scenario would equate additional $35 million in bonds to the college spending approxiissued in May 2012.

As of June 30, 2013, the audit confirmed Since the bond’s passage in 2006, 14 mately $3.6 million on the first building, $3.7 approximately $125.5 million in resources independent audits have been performed on million on the second building and $4.2 milfrom the first two bond issuances, which also the college’s Measure M financial state- lion on the third building.

Meanwhile, the state would then be includes earned interest and net premiums on ments – both a financial and performance the bonds. audit each fiscal year beginning in 2006-07 – expected to contribute $14.1 million, $20.9 million and $16.8 million, respectively per Of that amount, more than $103 million without a single finding. has been expended on authorized bond projMeasure M bond funds have been used project.

Despite their readiness, college officials ects, leaving the district with Measure M on a wide variety of major facilities projects bond reserve balance in the neighborhood of and campus expansions, including construc- are currently in a holding pattern, as all future $22 million. The district also has a remaining tion of the Canyon Country campus and cre- construction plans are contingent on the state authorization of $45 million in bonds to be ation of the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook being able to place a statewide facilities construction bond on a future ballot. issued at a future date.

University Center.

“College of the Canyons has been Other projects include construction of the For more Measure M information, visit extremely diligent about making good on the Applied Technology Education Center promises of Measure M – and exceeding (ATEC) at the Canyon Country campus, the www.canyons.edu and click “Measure M them,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook dramatic expansions of Mentry Hall and the Oversight” in the “About Canyons” menu.

CONSTRUCTION OF CULINARY ARTS CENTER STILL COOKING Chancellor establishes new matching-fund initiative

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espite still needing a little bit more time in the oven, construction of the College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education (iCuE) is progressing rapidly, with the project scheduled for completion this fall.

Including several kitchens, multiple culinary labs and classrooms and a central dining area, the state-of-the-art culinary facility will occupy approximately 12,200 square feet on the southeast corner of the Valencia campus.

The facility will serve as the permanent home for the culinary arts program, providing students with a modern, efficient and affordable educational center where all aspects of the culinary arts will be taught.

In recent months, construction crews have raised the steel structure into place and installed the building’s sheet-metal roof and decking. Crews have started to lay out the building’s interior and exterior metal stud framing, which will allow for installation of gas, water and electrical lines.

“As is the case with any campus construction project, or recipe for that matter, there is a logical order to completing the steps before you can enjoy what’s being created,” said Will Karrat, the college’s facilities project manager. “With this project moving along right on schedule, I anticipate a busy summer construction schedule as we work toward completing this project, relocating our culinary arts department and unveiling the fruits of our labor this fall.”

Since its inception in 2006, the culinary arts program has been housed in three separate facilities. The program currently operates in a former restaurant in Castaic.

At a cost of roughly $8 million, the project is entirely dis-

trict-funded, paid for through a combination of private donations and Measure M bond funds that were remaining after completion of the library expansion project.

The facility is scheduled for completion this fall, with an anticipated occupancy in the spring of 2015.

As part of the College of the Canyons Foundation’s ongoing Culinary Arts Capital Campaign, the college has raised approximately $975,000 from more than 490 community supporters, with contributions coming in the form of donations, facility naming gifts and other gifts-in-kind. Additionally, 92 percent of the college’s full-time staff have contributed.

Most recently, the Associated Student Government donated $5,000 toward the purchase of a wood-burning pizza oven.

In addition to the capital campaign, Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook has announced a new “matching fund” initiative for community members still interested in supporting this project. From now through the end of 2014, the Chancellor’s Office will match, on a dollar-for-dollar basis, all contributions to the matching fund initiative.

Such contributions will be used to establish a special programming and innovation fund designed to help the culinary arts program introduce new programs, classes and community outreach activities at the facility.

“It’s not too late for community members to pull a seat up to the table and join us in creating this savory, state-of-the-art culinary facility,” said Murray Wood, the foundation’s chief development officer.

For information, call Murray Wood at (661) 362-3433.

CONSTRUCTION OF THE CULINARY ARTS BUILDING CONTINUES.

8

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAKING NEWS • SUMMER 2014

STUDENTS AWARDED AT BUSINESS CONFERENCE

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en students from College of the Canyons’ Future Business Leaders of America – Phi Beta Lambda received awards during the organization’s California State Business Leadership Conference.

More than 400 students from 15 colleges and universities, such as UCLA, UC Berkeley and UC Davis, participated in the conference in Los Angeles from March 28 to 30.

In all, 19 members of the college’s FBLA club participated, with more than half of them taking home medals. Paul Dezso, who received a third-place award in Accounting Principles, and David Tushin (third place in Sports Management and Marketing) qualified to represent California at the FBLA’s national conference.

Competitions allowed students to demonstrate individual mastery of business concepts and skills, as well as compete as teams by analyzing issues in business cases and making recommendations to a panel of judges.

The Winners PAUL DEZSO: THIRD, ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES PAUL DEZSO: FIFTH, JUSTICE ADMINISTRATION JONATHAN MAXWELL: FOURTH, NETWORKING CONCEPTS DAVID TUSHIN: THIRD, SPORTS MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING DIEGO BOLTON & WYATT THOMPSON: THIRD, BUSINESS ANALYSIS & DECISION-MAKING PAUL DEZSO & TYLER LARSON: FIFTH, BUSINESS PRESENTATION DIEGO BOLTON, DAVID TUSHIN & ALLISON SILVER: THIRD, FINANCIAL ANALYSIS & DECISION-MAKING DIRAN AVEDIKIAN, JAMES LEE & LINDSEY STONEMAN: THIRD, STRATEGIC ANALYSIS & DECISION-MAKING

FROM THE BATTLEFIELD TO TRACK & FIELD C

ollege of the Canyons student-athlete Robert Green never competed in track & field when he was a student at Lancaster High School, but today he’s a valued asset to a Cougar track & field team that recently won its first conference title since 1970.

The 23-year-old former Marine took up sprinting only two years ago.

“Robert has been a great addition to the team. He’s a leader who’s sure of what he wants and never has a problem doing what we tell him to do,” said Track & Field Assistant Coach Denean Hill, who works with the team’s sprinters. “Other people on the team have been running since they were young, but he still had to learn the basic language of everything. What people see on the track is one thing, but it’s the end-product of eight or nine months of training and hard work.”

The sophomore, whose recent military service includes tours in Afghanistan, is humble about his experiences.

“For the most part, (enlisting) was something I was

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS SPRINTER ROBERT GREEN

doing because I was interested in history and politics,” said Green, who competes in the 100-meter, 200-meter and 4x100-meter relay events, with a personal best of 11.19 seconds in the 100m. “I just thought it would be good for my future.”

The rapport the Marines built with each other provided him with a unique bonding experience, he said.

While track & field may not be as intense as his service overseas, it still requires a team of individuals to stay committed to each other in reaching a common goal.

“You meet the same kind of people and get that same sense of camaraderie and brotherhood with the track team,” he said. “It’s also similar in that you meet people from all walks of life.”

Green said he hopes to continue his political science/history career, and to teach and coach track in some capacity.

“Robert would make a great teacher because he communicates with others well,” Hill said. “He does a great job of distinguishing what kind of learners people are.”

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

LEADER Boston Scientific Honda Performance Development Mark Jenkins & Roxie Ramey ADVOCATE Aerospace Dynamics International - John Cave AT&T - Dana Cop Bill Miranda Bradley J. Kirst D.D.S.

Citizens Business Bank - Nicole Nilos Gary & Diana Cusumano Dr. Susan Komsky Math Support Services - Peggy Cannistraci Mellady Direct Marketing - Jim & Jill Mellady LBW Insurance - Mitzi & Randy Moberg Mortensen Law, Tax, Trust & Estate Attorneys Dr. Skip Newhall NE Systems - Ed Padilla

Newhall Escrow - Steve Corn Kirk & Ana Palmer Harold & Jacquie Petersen Reyes Winery - Robert Reyes Saenger Associates - Gary Saenger Schools First FCU Shepard Insurance Agency - Scott Shepard Southern California Edison - Anna Frutos Sanchez Stern, Kory, Sreden & Morgan - Lloyd Sreden

Dr. Dianne and Mr. Roger Van Hook Wells Fargo - Shaun Sarkissian Randal Winter Construction - Randal & Gail Winter Dennis Witzel & Sheila Chovan LIFETIME MEMBERS Lou & Rita Garasi Tom & Colleen Lee