Big Future, Small Price Tag! Pullman Center in Profile News & Updates

Laura Harris is a Running Start senior who will be graduating with an associate degree in arts and a high school diploma through CCS Pullman.

How did you find out about the students’ Pullman Activities Board (PAB) and what has your experience been with it?

I saw a flyer for PAB and asked Dyan Bledsoe about it. She said they organize events and promote student engagement. I was interested in getting involved, so I attended the next event. The PAB chair said I should join and helped me fill out my application. Last year, we had brunch for International Women’s Day which is my favorite thing I’ve done with PAB. Over 30 people came, and it was really cool to hear all the different languages people spoke.

What made you do Running Start?

I was homeschooled and wanted to get experience with other teachers before going to a four-year university. It was a great opportunity to get affordable schooling. The staff at SFCC are very supportive and involved with the students.

Did you have any challenges at SFCC Pullman?

Last winter, I had mostly online courses. Two of my classes had very heavy workloads and I struggled to get all my assignments done every day. It was scary because I tend to be a perfectionist. It taught me how to ask for help and talk with my professors more. I learned how to approach them, explain my situation, and form a plan to get back on track. Did you have any impactful experiences while at SFCC Pullman?

Last Spring, I was in Jenni Spencer’s communications class, and I mentioned I was looking for summer internships. Spencer was very excited for me when I got an interview at SEL. When I got back after the summer, everyone was curious about my internship. Seeing how much they care about me beyond just academics shows how strong the community here is. What will you be doing in the future?

I am committed to the University of Idaho to study Computer Engineering. Eventually, I want to do project management or something similar that is more on the coordination and people side of engineering.

Our extraordinary colleague Dyan Bledsoe has moved on to a new professional adventure with WSU Athletics. For twenty-two years, Dyan has served students, colleagues, and the Palouse community in an exemplary fashion. She has inspired us with her unwavering focus on students and their success. During her service at CCS, she held positions in instruction, student services, administration, and in pre-college, CTE, and college programs. Dyan modeled the very best qualities of our college: We offer a home where all students are welcome, where students are served collaboratively and equitably, and where everyone is committed to student success. We wish her the very best in her next professional chapter with WSU. The fourth annual STEM Summit at CCS Pullman on March 14 was a terrific success. This year’s event showcased students in live presentations, poster sessions, and project displays for an all-are-welcome audience of student peers, faculty, and student service staff. Pullman faculty and staff Valda Black, Gamila Bohaliga, Leathia Botello, Linda Cook, and Clay McDonie organized the event. Special thanks to WSU and UI colleagues Jessica Eby, Lee Tatum, and Laura Welch who advised our students on pathways for further STEM education as well as to graduate students Daniel McCloskey & Kayla Owens who served as student mentors.

CCS Pullman is growing! We currently have adjunct teaching vacancies in Biology, Economics, Environmental Science, and Physics. Share your talents at our Center if you love working in a collaborative environment that offers authentic relationships, prioritizes personalized teaching and learning, and supports equitiable student success. Apply at bit.ly/ccspullmanjobs.