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January 11-March 15: Abaya and Beyond
February 13-14: Celebrating V-Day 2013
The Larson Gallery hosts Abaya and Beyond featuring Tieton artist Yvonne Pepin-Wakefield. The exhibit includes work she completed while teaching at Kuwait University’s College for Women. Opening reception is Friday, January 11 from 5:00-7:30pm. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
YVCC hosts V-Day beginning February 13 with a lecture Abaya and Beyond by Yvonne Wakefield in Kendall Auditorium at 7:00pm. Dr. Wakefield’s paintings will be on display in the Larson Gallery from January through March. The celebration continues with One Billion Rising, a global dance revolution with live music, on February 14 from 11:00am to 1:00pm in the HUB. For more information: 574.4822.
January 12: Home Basketball Games Come cheer for the men’s and women’s basketball programs at their home games in Sherar Gym. For a complete list of upcoming athletic events visit www.yvcc.edu/athletics
January 17: Pollination and Pollinators YVCC Biology, in partnership with the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, presents David James. His talk, Pollination and Pollinators, will be held at 7:00pm in Glenn Anthon Hall Room 215. This event is free and open to the public. For more information: www.yvcc.edu/calendar
February 2: Sealant Day YVCC’s Dental Hygiene Program hosts the 20th Annual Dental Sealant Day on Saturday, February 2. Sealant Day provides free dental sealants, fluoride varnish, and visual dental exams for youth ages 6-21. For more information or to schedule an appointment call 574.4917.
February 7: Leave It To Beaver YVCC Biology, in partnership with the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, presents William Meyer. His talk, Leave it to Beaver: A Rodent’s Role in Watershed Restoration, will be held at 7:00pm in Glenn Anthon Hall Room 215. This event is free and open to the public. For more information: www.yvcc.edu/calendar
February 9: Light Night The Larson Gallery Guild, in partnership with The Seasons Performance Hall, presents Light Night. This fundraising event will celebrate the light in Yakima from artificial to natural and will feature live music, hors d’oeuvres, and entertainment. The cost is $50 per person. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
February 16-17: Red Wine & Chocolate Taste YVCC student produced wines at Yakima Valley Vintners. The tasting room is located in the teaching winery on YVCC’s Grandview Campus. For more information: www.yakimavalleyvintners.com
February 28: WA’s Disappearing Shrub-Steppe YVCC Biology, in partnership with the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, presents Dr. Janelle Downs. Her talk, Washington’s Disappearing Shrub-Steppe, will be held at 7:00pm in Glenn Anthon Hall Room 215. This event is free and open to the public. For more information: www.yvcc.edu/calendar
March 29-April 27: 38th National Juried Photo Exhibit The Larson Gallery presents the 38th National Juried Exhibition featuring photographers from around the United States. Opening reception is Friday, March 29 from 5:00-7:00pm. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
April 11: Arts Award Each year the Larson Gallery honors a member or members of the community for Lifetime Achievement in the Arts. Join in the special evening Thursday, April 11 from 5:00-8:00pm. For ticket information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
Scholarship Applications Now Available! The YVCC Foundation is accepting scholarship applications for the 2013-2014 academic year. Completed applications are due March 15. For more information: 574.4645 or www.yvcc.edu/scholarships
Contents 3 4 5 7 9 10 11 12 13
President’s Letter Campus News Larson Gallery Annual Report Student Activities STEM - Research Opportunities Athletics Vineyard & Winery Technology Sharing Good News
Gold Medallion YVCC’s 2011-2012 Campus Update series recently won a Gold Medallion at the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations district conference. The cover photograph of the winter edition, shown here, also won Bronze in the original photograph category. Produced by YVCC Community Relations Niki Hopkins & Stefanie Menard Published December 2012 If you would like to be added or removed from our mailing list, please contact us: Yakima Valley Community College Office of Community Relations PO Box 22520 • Yakima, WA 98907-2520 email: communityrelations@yvcc.edu / 509.574.4646
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On the Cover YVCC Winery Technology student Katie Catron works in the teaching winery on the Grandview Campus during her Winery Operations I course this fall. She is measuring the sugar content, called brix, using a portable density meter. Brix is checked daily to monitor the progress of fermentation. Students in the program have the opportunity for hands-on training throughout the entire process. Above; the 2012-2013 student wine makers for YVCC’s label Yakima Valley Vintners.
From the President
President Dr. Linda Kaminski Board of Trustees Paul McDonald, Chair James Carvo Robert Ozuna Lisa Parker Patricia Whitefoot VP of Administrative Services Teresa Holland VP of Instruction and Student Services Tomás Ybarra Deans Arts & Sciences and Basic Skills Kerrie Abb Workforce Education Paulette Lopez Student Services Leslie Blackaby Grandview Campus Dr. Bryce Humphreys
Fall quarter began on a celebratory note as we honored one of our exemplary retired faculty members and athletic coaches. On September 13 we dedicated our basketball court in honor of Ellwood Crosier. Attended by many current and former athletes and staff, it was a much-deserved tribute to a YVCC legend for his amazing career. Ellwood is a fine example of how dedication and caring can transform the lives of our students. Classes began on September 24 as our Yakima and Grandview campuses welcomed new and returning students. Currently, we have over 6,300 students on both campuses. Our fall enrollment represents a 2.6% increase over our enrollment a year ago and a 3.6% increase over our state enrollment target which determines our state funding. While we are encouraged to see so many students pursuing higher education, we are also challenged to address the demand. Regretfully, we had to turn away 120 new students who could not find open seats in classes this fall but will have priority registration for winter quarter. We are also elated to have been awarded an Achieving the Dream Walmart PRESS for Completion Grant. This very competitive grant is awarded to colleges that have demonstrated success in helping students achieve their educational goals. YVCC is one of only 15 community colleges in the nation to receive this prestigious recognition and the only college in the western region of the country. This project will engage faculty and staff in developing a comprehensive student advising program to promote improved degree completion rates. Faculty have begun to meet in small groups to develop this plan. In this issue of the Campus Update, you will read about some of our newest staff, learn about exciting initiatives being led by faculty, and become familiar with the accomplishments of some of our most promising students. We recently learned that our Campus Update publication was recognized with “Gold Status” by the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations. We congratulate Nicole Hopkins and Stefanie Menard of our Community Relations team for their outstanding effort in developing and producing this prize-winning publication. We hope that you will be inspired reading about our many endeavors and our excellent students, faculty, and staff. Thank you for your continuing support of higher education and Yakima Valley Community College.
Sincerely,
Linda Kaminski, Ed.D. President
campusnews
From Left; photo one; Ellwood Crosier smiles from the audience as his signature is unveiled during the dedication ceremony of YVCC’s basketball court now named in his honor. Photo two; Crosier speaks to the crowd who gathered to celebrate his legacy. Photo three; Since 1928 YVCC has had four athletic directors. Crosier was hired by the first, Glen Sherar. He is shown in this photograph with the other three, from the left; Jerry Ward, Ellwood Crosier, Bill Faller, and current Athletic Director Ray Funk. Photo four; The Crosier family, including daughter Lanette and family, daughter Jenell and family, his wife Arla, and son Marlan.
Crosier Court Dedication
YVCC Honors Long-time Coach and Instructor This fall YVCC’s basketball court was named in honor of Ellwood Crosier. During a distinguished 37 year career at YVCC, Crosier served as a head men’s basketball coach, head women’s basketball coach, and as a psychology instructor. He completed his 24 year coaching career with over 500 wins, making him one of the most successful coaches in the Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges. His teams won four NWAACC titles, two each for the men and women. A graduate of Wapato High School, Crosier attended YVCC and played basketball for YVCC Hall of Fame Coach Glen Sherar. During his playing career he was named the team’s Most Inspirational Player in 1954 and 1955. After graduating with his bachelor of science degree from the University of Washington, Ellwood pursued his master’s degree at Utah State. Returning to the Yakima Valley, he began teaching psychology at YVCC in September of 1958 and assisted Glen Sherar with the men’s basketball program. In 1964 Crosier become the head men’s basketball coach. Overall, his men’s teams compiled a 292-204 record and won NWAACC championships in 1966 and 1976. Crosier also had a successful career leading the YVCC women’s basketball program. During his tenure his women’s teams were 231-88 including back-to-back NWAACC Championships in 1990 and 1991. He retired from the college in 1995. Ellwood returned to YVCC in 1996 to coach alongside his daughter Lanette. As assistant coach he helped the women’s basketball team win the Eastern Region Championship. The court was officially dedicated on September 13 by the YVCC Board of Trustees. The well attended event included family and friends, former colleagues, and athletes. Lifetime residents of the valley, Crosier, his wife Arla, and their three children are all graduates of YVCC and were present for the unveiling of Ellwood’s signature now part of the new design on the floor of Sherar Gymnasium.
Walmart PRESS for Completion Grant This June, YVCC was chosen as one of 15 colleges to receive a $100,000 Walmart PRESS for Completion Grant. Through a competitive process, YVCC was selected from 50 eligible Achieving the Dream Leader Colleges across the country and was the only one selected for the grant in the western region. The grant is sponsored by the Walmart Foundation and administered by Achieving the Dream, a national nonprofit leading the nation’s most comprehensive non-governmental reform network for community college student success. The objective is to actively engage faculty and staff in important campus-based reform efforts and ensure that more students have a better chance of staying in school and obtaining a degree or certificate. “This is an outstanding opportunity for us to develop and test new strategies for engaging our faculty and staff in advising activities that will promote student success,” stated Dr. Linda Kaminski. During the 27-months of the grant YVCC will receive support from Achieving the Dream. In addition, YVCC will serve as a peer coach and will participate with 175+ colleges in the Achieving the Dream National Reform Network. “Yakima Valley Community College has met high standards of practice and performance and is well-positioned to tackle one of the toughest community college reform challenges our nation is facing: engaging more full-time and adjunct faculty and staff in student success efforts,” said Rachel Singer, vice president for community college relations and applied research at Achieving the Dream, Inc.
community Larson Gallery
Abaya and Beyond From January 11 to March 9, the Larson Gallery will feature the works of Dr. Yvonne Pepin-Wakefield in an exhibition titled Abaya and Beyond. From 2004-2010, Yvonne worked as an art professor at Kuwait University’s College for Women. During this time she completed four series of paintings; three of which were exhibited in Kuwait and the United States. The Four Friends Bag Ladies III My Student fourth, Abaya and Beyond, was never exhibited in Kuwait. Abaya and Beyond is the artist’s visual expressions of her fascination with the traditional dress of the women in Kuwait; the hijab, abaya, and nigab. These powerful paintings depict women in such garments, and each illustrates a particular story or artist interpretation of the lives of the women in Kuwait. This exhibition will also feature a series of hand-colored photographs of men and women in Kuwait, and paintings which center on the pomegranate, an iconographic symbol of the Middle East. One goal of this exhibition is to demystify the women beneath the abaya and to show that these women, like women worldwide, share commonalties in self-reflection and expression. In conjunction with this exhibition, several classes at Yakima Valley Community College will incorporate her book Suitcase Filled with Nails: Lessons Learned from Teaching Art in Kuwait in their winter curriculum. The book chronicles the years when she taught art in Kuwait. In addition, the artist will be sharing her experiences with the students in class. The Larson Gallery is cosponsoring a public lecture featuring Dr. Yvonne Pepin-Wakefield, in collaboration with YVCC’s Diversity Series, on February 13 at 7:00pm in the Kendall Hall Auditorium on the Yakima Campus. The lecture is made possible through a grant from Humanities Washington.
New Director David Lynx This summer Yakima Valley Community College and the Larson Gallery Guild selected David Lynx as the new executive director of the Larson Gallery. He began his role on September 1. Lynx has spent the past 18 years at the Yakima Valley Museum, most recently as the associate director. During that time he taught Asian art history and art appreciation at YVCC and volunteered at the Larson Gallery. Lynx also stayed involved as an artist. He is a photographer and a silk-screen printmaker. Lynx holds a bachelor’s degree in theater from the University of Washington, a master of liberal studies with a museum emphasis from University of Oklahoma at Norman, and has completed post-graduate work in Asian Art History and Japanese. In an interview with reporter Pat Muir from the Yakima Herald Republic Lynx expressed his hopes to “establish the Larson Galley as the premier exhibition space in the Yakima Valley and to better integrate its offerings with the curriculum of Yakima Valley Community College.” At the same time, Lynx expressed that he would like to “build the gallery’s endowment, increase educational outreach, and encourage a broader swath of the Yakima community to attend shows.” Information and photographs provided by the Larson Gallery.
Shown above: David Lynx speaks at the opening reception of Terrain - A Survey by artist Joe Feddersen.
Medical Assisting Yakima Valley Community College’s Medical Assisting Program has a 13 year history of graduating medical assistants with the skills required to complete the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam. With small class sizes in clinical courses, students have the opportunity for individualized attention as they master required competencies. YVCC instructors bring experience and exemplary teaching methodology to the clinical setting, providing students with a unique learning environment. The program also offers online options for many courses to fit a variety of student schedules. This innovative offering of e-learning courses in Allied Health programs earned YVCC the designation of the Allied Health Center of Excellence by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. YVCC is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon recommendation from the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB) and has been since 2002. After a rigorous self-study and site visit in 2012, YVCC’s program received accreditation for another 10 years, the longest length of time awarded by the CAAHEP. YVCC’s program also has the unique opportunity to connect with local physicians. The program has partnerships with 67 hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices around the Yakima Valley to ensure students have exceptional practicum experiences. “These partnerships are a critical piece of an accredited medical assisting curriculum as they allow the students to practice and be evaluated for competency in essential skills, while still under supervision,” stated Medical Assisting Program Chair Shirley Mohsenian. “Our community partners are exemplary teachers and mentors. The students learn so much under their direction,” she concluded. Through YVCC’s accredited program, employers are assured that students meet the nationally established medical assisting competencies and are trained by approved instructors.
Students in YVCC’s Medical Assisting Program receive hands-on training as shown above. After mastering skills in class, they are placed in local hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices for externships. These opportunities in the workplace provide students with additional on-the-job training and foster mentorship experiences for students.
Student Success A single father of two young sons, Jesús Campos enrolled at YVCC to provide more opportunities for his family. He was interested in studying medical assisting and YVCC’s program offered him the flexibility he needed to go to school and prepare for a future career while still caring for his family. As part of YVCC’s program, Campos was able to participate in an externship at Yakima Neighborhood Health Services (YNHS). “YNHS allowed me to practice the hands-on training I learned in YVCC’s Medical Assisting Program. I gained experience administering vaccinations, A1C’s (blood glucose testing), and pregnancy tests,” stated YVCC student Jesús Campos. “I know that I will do great, without any doubt, and I give thanks to YVCC’s Medical Assisting Program and YNHS for allowing me to participate and be part of their successful team. I look forward to getting out in the field soon,” he concluded. Campos is finishing up his coursework and will soon earn his associate of applied science degree in medical assisting.
Jesús Campos
Did you know? Sundquist Hall, built in 1957 and named after Ralph Sundquist, was designed to promote vocational programs, especially agriculture. Ralph Sundquist, a long-time valley orchardist, was instrumental in helping YVC’s first agriculture program. Ralph’s son, Marvin, is also devoted to helping YVCC. Marvin was the founding president of the college’s corporate board, as well as one of the founding directors of the YVCC Foundation. He served in both these roles for over 30 years. Sundquist Hall houses many of the colleges vocational
programs including medical assisting.
Yakima Valley Community College opened as a junior college in 1928. In Clio’s Corner we share historical facts and memories about our college. A special thanks to Mr. Jim Newbill, longtime YVCC history instructor and current honorary director on the YVCC Foundation for his contributions to this idea.
√annualreport
Our Focus Mission Statement Yakima Valley Community College enriches and enhances individuals and communities by delivering accessible, student-centered education. YVCC addresses the needs of our diverse communities by providing learning opportunities in basic literacy; academic, professional, and technical education; and lifelong learning.
Core Theme 1: Community YVCC embraces its role as both a provider of higher education and an employer, and actively seeks partnerships to provide opportunities for the economic, social, and cultural development of our external and internal communities.
Core Theme 2: Access YVCC increases access through programs and services that address the diverse challenges, learning styles, goals, and schedules of students in the district.
Core Theme 3: Success YVCC provides learner-centered environments with a focus on its diverse students, providing a foundation for lifelong learning, resulting in student achievement of educational goals through completion of courses, certificates, and degrees.
Our Students Vocational 29%
40 or Above 14%
Academic Course 39%
Under 20 27%
30-39 15%
Course Type
Age
White 41%
Ethnicity 20-29 44%
Developmental 12%
Multiracial or Other Race African American 4% 1% Asian/PaciďŹ c Islander 1% Native American 4%
Hispanic 50%
Basic Skills 20%
Data for this report provided by: Office of Institutional Effectiveness, Budget Office, Grant Office, Financial Aid, Human Resource Services, and the Vice President for Administrative Services. Sources include: State Board for Community and Technical Colleges Annual Report, Data Warehouse, and Financial Aid Management.
Our Data
2011-2012 Academic Year
Operating Resources 2011-2012
Total $24,252,130
Enrollment 9,576 Annual Headcount 4,688 Full-time Equivalent
$20,000,000
Graduating Class of 2012 982 total degrees and certificates awarded 467 degrees; associate of arts, business, science 304 degrees; associate of applied science, general 211 certificates; vocational, high school diploma
State Operating Funds $15,841,640 65%
$15,000,000
Tuition $7,532,250 31%
$10,000,000
Employees 307 Full-Time Employees 36% Faculty 46% Classified 10% Exempt/Professional 8% Administrative
$5,000,000 Local Funds $878,240 4%
0
State & Federal Grants & Contracts 2011-2012
Financial Aid 2011-2012
Total $4,798,145
Total $26,285,698
$20,000,000
$2,000,000
Grants and Waivers $16,520,986 63%
Federal Grants State Grants $1,662,526 $1,615,999 35% 34%
$15,000,000
$10,000,000
$1,500,000
Student Loans $7,512,031 29%
$5,000,000
0
Scholarships $987,904 Work Study 4% Outside Agency $866,689 $398,087 3% 1%
Local $1,519,620 31%
$1,000,000
$500,000
0
Capital Projects 2011-2012 College/city of Grandview Library This joint project between YVCC and the city of Grandview serves YVCC students and community members in the lower Yakima Valley. This building project was awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED速) Gold Certification by the United States Green building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute.
students YVCC hosted the 3rd annual Campus Sustainability Day to raise awareness about the complex subject of sustainability and to inspire movement toward a sustainable future. This year’s event featured educational information and booths hosted by local organizations including Coca-Cola Bottling, Yakima County Public Services Waste Division, Bud Clary Toyota, Bob Hall Chevrolet, Yakima Environmental Learning Foundation, and Liberty Bottleworks. In recognition of Washington State’s annual Adult Literacy Week YVCC honors individuals in our community as Literacy Champions. This year YVCC recognized the Yakima School District for its commitment to the College Alternative Program (CAP). CAP is a partnership between YVCC and local school districts to offer dropout youth (ages 16-21) the opportunity to earn GED certificates outside of the regular school system. Although YVCC’s adult education centers have always served this population, CAP links the college and districts more closely, providing important benefits to the students, the districts, and the college. This fall YVCC student clubs made it their priority to help the local community through service projects. In October, the Phi Theta Kappa honor society traveled to Bill’s Berry Farms in Grandview, Washington to make apple cider. “I felt this trip would be an excellent way for our club members to get to know one another, while performing a community service,” stated Phi Theta Kappa President Jeremy Thompson. The club’s efforts generated 60 gallons of cider, which they donated to the Union Gospel Mission for its annual Thanksgiving meal. Later on in the quarter the group participated in KNDO Television’s Food Drive. “It is easy to look away or ignore some of the issues that plague our valley, issues like hunger and drug abuse,” continued Thompson. “Organizations like the Union Gospel Mission and Operation Northwest Harvest don’t turn their heads, they are doing the hard work of changing people’s lives every day. The work they do changes the community for the better. So supporting these and other community service organizations is just one way that we can make a difference right here at home,” he concluded. In addition, the Grandview Student Council encouraged students on the Grandview Campus to donate food items. They were able to collect over 750 pounds for their local food bank. Yakima Campus students and staff including the Business Club, the Gender and Sexualities Association, and the college’s Professional Development Committee partnered to help support the United States Marine Corps annual Toys for Tots Drive providing toys for children during the Christmas season throughout the Yakima Valley. This past summer YVCC MESA students Abdon Godinez and Eliana Rodriguez were selected to participate in a 10-week Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) funded by the National Science Foundation at Washington State University (WSU) Pullman. Students were paired with WSU faculty members who incorporated them into meaningful work in new or ongoing research. “REU was the best way I could’ve spent my summer, especially when it’s held at one of the top engineering universities,” stated Abdon Godinez. “My research topic was to evaluate the surface flatness of a rapid prototype. The professor and the graduate student I worked with were a great help, they made the research much more interesting,” he continued. Both Abdon and Eliana came away with a better understanding of university life, research, and what it takes to work toward a bachelor’s degree. YVCC’s Tiin-Ma Club and the Associated Students of YVCC hosted several events this November to honor Native American Heritage Month. In celebration of their cultural heritage, the students hosted several guest speakers. The first guest was Loren Selam, a Yakama Tribal Member and student at Heritage University, who came to campus for a drumming presentation and lecture. Later in the month the students hosted Russell Jim, a Yakama Elder, who presented on Native American Culture and Lila Ambrose, a Yakama Elder, who spoke on the history of fry bread and gave a cooking demonstration. “You have to learn from the history of your country and we do this by showing our way of life,” stated Brad Kent, ASYVCC Lead Student Ambassador, Tiin-Ma Member, Alaskan Tribal Member, and Yakama Tribal Member. “There are lots of people who live in the area who don’t know about Native American culture. For this reason we choose to host these events to help spread knowledge of our culture to help become a more diverse country,” he concluded.
stem
Left: Student Sydney Bouchey. Center: Students Chad Carman, Cutris Strom, Josh Sundquist, and Chris Sutphen with instructors Dr. Sam Mazhari and Dr. Tanya Knickerbocker. Right: Jake Covington.
STEM: Summer Research YVCC has been selected to join Heritage University in a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) grant funded by the US Department of Education’s Title V Program. This five-year grant is multifaceted with the main objective to increase the number of students graduating from college with a major in STEM programs. For the first time, YVCC was able to offer summer research internships that allowed students to earn credit while also receiving financial support. Six students were selected from the competitive application process; four to work with YVCC Chemistry Instructors Dr. Sam Mazhari and Dr. Tanya Knickerbocker, and two to study with YVCC Biology Instructor Dr. Matthew Loeser. Chemistry Department Dr. Mazhari and Dr. Tanya Knickerbocker, along with Patrick Jensen, an analytical chemist from John I. Haas, Inc., created an opportunity for YVCC students Chad Carman, Curtis Strom, Josh Sundquist, and Chris Sutphen to participate in industry research. As the largest supplier of hops and hops extracts in the United States, John I. Haas, Inc. actively utilizes chemical techniques for manufacturing and quality control. In collaboration with this local business, YVCC’s students focused their research on improving the efficiency of separation and analysis of various alpha and beta acids that are extracted from hop cones. The concentration of these molecules are the most important gauge of quality and pricing of hops and its products. “John I. Haas not only provided our students with a real industrial research project, but generously provided us with some of the essential reagents, equipment, and technical knowledge,” stated Mazhari. During the course of this project, a high-performance liquid chromatography instrument (HPLC) was used for separation and analysis. Students were able to significantly improve the resolution of separation of the components in less time, in comparison to usual methods of practice in industry. Upon completion of their research, the students presented their work in the form of a poster and a formal presentation to an audience of instructors, Heritage University representatives, and a number of scientists, technicians, and managers of John I. Haas, Inc. “This audience truly reflected the great work that can be achieved as the result of collaboration between colleges and industry. It must also be noted that this project could not have been achieved without the HPLC instrument that was donated to us by S. S. Steiner Inc., earlier in the year. Students gained a fantastic experience in both an academic and industrial setting. The enhancement of such projects on our campus is of great value,” concluded Mazhari. Biology Department YVCC Students Michael Jacob (Jake) Covington and Sydney Bouchey participated in a month-long research project with biology instructor Dr. Matthew Loeser. Their research was guided by an active forest management program led by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) working on a privately-owned conservation easement near Ellensburg, Washington. TNC and the landowner were interested in collecting data on the forest condition of the property to assess the risk of wildfires. Extensive research from forests around the western U.S. has shown that dense forests are more prone to catastrophic fires. The students surveyed trees at multiple locations, calculated densities, and estimated timber value. Once Jake and Sydney completed data collection and analysis, they prepared a scientific poster for a conference presentation in 2013. “The students were exposed to the process of science both in the field and the laboratory,” stated Loeser. “I am thrilled that YVCC could offer this type of learning opportunity. Research was the single most important thing that led me towards a scientific career,” he continued. The students findings on the high risks of wildfire were correct. Just days after finishing their research project, the area was completely devastated by the Taylor Bridge Fire that burnt more than 23,000 acres of land between Cle Elum and Ellensburg. This research produced a valuable dataset of pre-fire conditions and subsequent researchers will return to these plots to assess the long-term effects of the Taylor Bridge fire.
athletics
Greg Oldham YVCC Athletics is pleased to announce the interim appointment of Greg Oldham to serve as assistant athletic director and head women’s basketball coach. Oldham has been with the Yak’s for the past three years serving as the assistant men’s basketball coach. He steps into this new role with extensive coaching experience including high school girls basketball at Thorp, Eishenhower, White Swan, Coupeville, and West Valley schools. He led these teams to nine State Tournament appearances, earning six trophies. Oldham has coached for 18 years in Washington with 14 of those years as a head coach. “I’m excited to continue the legacy of this great program, following in the footsteps of incredible coaches like Ellwood Crosier, Lanette Crosier, and Cody Butler,” stated Oldham. “Expectations here are always high, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Our goal is to recruit student-athletes of character and skill who will represent the college and our community in positive ways - both on and off the court,” he concluded.
Soccer
Volleyball
The YVCC Women’s Soccer Program underwent a successful transitional season with new head coach Peter Monahan. “We began the year with only two returning starters from last year’s team, but built a deep team,” stated Monahan. “Over the challenging season YVCC distinguished itself as the only team in the NWAACC to score against every opponent, and we were the lone team to net multiple goals versus the three-time defending champions, Walla Walla,” he continued. Individual honors were given to Azucena Jimenez and Chelsea Robles for their academic achievement earning them selection on the NWAACC All-Academic Team.
YVCC Volleyball, under the direction of Head Coach Al Rogers and Assistant Coach Nicole Morozzo, started its season with a lot of adversity. With the Shear Gym floor replacement still underway, the Yaks struggled to find a proper place to practice. They ended up losing valuable training days before moving back to their home court. Despite this setback YVCC finished in the top three of the opening scrimmage tournament hosted on the new court. “We played well at our first tournament, but we hit a down slide during our first league matches. We soon rebounded and started playing good ball as indicated by our second-place finish at the Edmonds Community College Crossover tournament,” stated Rogers. “As coaches we really pushed the players and were satisfied that they responded well. In the end we missed the NWAACC Tournament, but we had a great match with Spokane that went five hard-fought sets,” he concluded. Individual honors were given to Katina Ferguson who earned First Team All-Eastern Region and Deborah Aguilar who was named Second Team All-Eastern Region by the NWAACC. Aguilar also was named number one for the most digs. Players Hannah Smythe and Taylor Flores earned a place on the NWAACC Sophomore All-Star Team. Flores was also honored with All-Academic Team honors for her academic performance.
Peter Monahan YVCC welcomed Peter Monahan as the head women’s soccer coach this fall season. Monahan has been coaching soccer for 25 years, most recently as the men’s head coach at Portland State University. Originally from the Yakima Valley, Monahan returned to the area with his wife who relocated for a new job. His coaching career has been balanced with his work as an educator and a filmmaker. This year Monahan completed a master’s degree at Portland State University in curriculum and instruction.
vineyard & winery
Left: Student José Licano samples wine. Center: Licano, with his sister, Carolina Warwick. Both are currently working at Kestrel Vintners in Prosser. Right: Student Jensena Newhouse shown in Yakima Valley Vintner’s tasting room on YVCC’s Grandview Campus.
José Licano José Licano started at YVCC as a running start student from Grandview High School. After graduation he relocated to California, and began working at a Ford dealership. Then in 2005 Licano returned to the Yakima Valley at the request of his mother to help care for his family. With the encouragement of his sisters, one of which is YVCC Alumna Carolina Warwick, José decided to return to school and enrolled in YVCC’s Vineyard and Winery Technology Program in the winter of 2010. “My favorite part of YVCC’s program is all the hands-on experience. The classes are not confined to a small four-walled room. I love that we get to follow the process from grapes growing on the vine all the way to the bottle,” stated Licano. While in the program, Licano learned of an internship opportunity with Hogue Cellars, and was hired to fill the position. Following his internship, he was hired to work with the company. He stayed with them until April 2012. He spent the summer traveling and now is back in the Valley. Currently José is working at Kestrel Vintners in their tasting room and assists with other operations of the winery, including bottling. In January he will enroll in classes to fulfill the remaining requirements of his degree and will graduate in the spring of 2013. “I like the youth of Washington’s Wine Industry. I like that we are still experimenting and finding our own style of wine making. We aren’t stuck in any old ways, like some other more established markets,” he concluded. Licano plans to continue working in the wine industry as an assistant or head winemaker and hopes to start his own label.
Jensena Newhouse Jensena Newhouse grew up on her family’s farm outside of Sunnyside, Washington. She is the daughter of Dan Newhouse, the director of Washington State Department of Agriculture and the granddaughter of former Washington State Senator Irving Newhouse. While attending Sunnyside High School, Jensena wanted to get a jump-start on her education, and enrolled at YVCC during her junior year. Attending classes on the Grandview Campus, she earned an associate’s degree in 2005. With a love for agriculture, that was instilled by her father and grandfather, Newhouse sought a job in the industry. She began working at Daven Lore Winery in Prosser, Washington. “Growing up on a farm definitely inspired me,” stated Newhouse. “Having a farmer for a father, I’ve learned to appreciate agriculture and the hard work and passion that are put into it. I have a deep respect for farmers and the work they do. Some of my fondest memories are of hop harvest with my father and grandfather, irrigating with my Dad and swathing and baling hay with him. It is definitely a different way of life and it has made me who I am today. I would love to be able to give back in some way,” she continued. Wanting to learn more about vineyard and winery technology, Newhouse began to explore further educational opportunities at YVCC. “While working at the winery I decided that I wanted to learn more and possibly get a degree in enology. I asked other people in the industry and they highly recommended YVCC’s Vineyard and Winery Technology Program. They had wonderful things to say about Department Chair Trent Ball,” she continued. A few months after enrolling in classes, she was offered a job at WSU Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center. During this experience she decided she preferred to work outside in a vineyard. “There is something magical about being in a vineyard; it is a really amazing and peaceful place,” she concluded. Newhouse will graduate from YVCC in the spring of 2014 with an associate of applied science degree in vineyard technology. She plans to transfer to WSU Tri-Cities and work toward a bachelor’s degree in fruit and vegetable management. Ultimately she hopes to earn a master’s degree and work as a viticulturist.
people English Instructor Joy Clark presented at the Community College Humanities Association Pacific Northwest Division Conference in Portland, Oregon. Her presentation was titled Thomas Jefferson’s contributions to American Civil Religion. Vice President of Administrative Services Teresa Holland recently participated in a Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accreditation evaluation visit to the LDS Business College in Salt Lake City, UT. I-Best Coordinator Stephanie Ketcham and Student Cindy Mejia recently attended an SBCTC luncheon where Washington State House of Representative Phyllis Gutiérrez Kenney received the Adult Literacy Champion Award. The pair sat at Representative Kenney’s table and Mejia, who attended YVCC’s ESL and ABE programs, was mentioned in her acceptance speech. Representative Kenney has been a major supporter of I-BEST and the Opportunity Grant for community college students. Recently retired Student Services Assistant to the Dean, Kathy LaFetra received the Facility Operations Department Golden Plunger Award. Kathy was very active on campus during her many years with the college, participating in the Campus Sustainability Committee, the Parking Appeals Committee, along with many others and generously gave her time in many ways throughout her career. For these reasons Kathy was selected as the final recipient of this award and will forever hold the Golden Plunger. Vice President of Instruction and Student Services Tomás Ybarra is currently serving as Chair of the Washington State Board for Community and Technical College’s Instruction Commission. This fall he attended the first meeting of Liberal Arts Washington, a gathering of educational institutions from across the state, to discuss strategies to effectively promote the importance and value of a liberal arts degree. He was also invited to participate in a work session with the Washington State House Higher Education Committee where his panel discussed the college’s approach to serving ethnically diverse student populations. New work by Art Instructor Carol Hassen was recently featured at Yakima’s 4th Street Theatre. In addition twelve local artists were asked to create work to accompany Hassen’s theme of “land”. This new exhibit, part of Art on the Wall, will be in place for a year. Other YVCC personnel represented in this exhibit include Larson Gallery Director David Lynx, retired Photography Instructor Herb Blisard, and Art Instructor Bob Fisher. New work by Rob Blackaby (husband of Leslie Blackaby, dean of student services) is featured in the theatre’s Noel Lobby, which also contains a chandelier designed and fabricated by Carol Hassen, Bob Fisher, and Architect Barbara Cline. In addition Hassen curated the inclusion of poetry that is hidden around the theatre including a piece by English Instructor Dan Peters. Biology Instructors, Dr. Matthew Loeser, Dr. Stephen Kenny, and Claire Carpenter attended a two-week science-education training in Spokane organized by Project Lead the Way (PLTW). PLTW is a national leader in the reformation of science education in middle schools and high schools. This particular workshop outlined a biomedical curriculum for high school students beginning in their freshman year and continuing through senior year. The goal of the curriculum is to increase successful transition into science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) college-level coursework. YVCC has partnered with Wapato High School which launched this new curriculum this year. YVCC’s faculty members, alongside Wapato high school faculty and Heritage University staff, will continue to collaborate on the increased emphasis on biomedical content in high schools. The funding for this training was provided by the US Department of Education Title V STEM Grant from Heritage University. Congratulations to YVCC Nursing Students who had 100% pass rates on their national licensing exams for the past three quarters. The National Council for Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is the national licensing exam that all LPN and RN candidates must pass in order to gain a license to practice. Pass rates are bench marked and monitored both statewide and nationally. YVCC’s pass rate is 20% above the national average. YVCC’s Phi Theta Kappa honor society was recently named a “one-star chapter” and awarded a special commendation during the Greater Northwest Regional Convention. This fall the college mourned the loss of long-time Business Technology Instructor Audrey Wedin. Wedin lost her six-year battle with cancer on June 25. Audrey began teaching full-time in 1995 after many years of teaching part-time. She received the Robert M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching Award in 2009. Wedin is greatly missed by her colleagues and students. Audrey Wedin
Student Spotlight: Humberto Avila Yakima Valley Community College student Humberto Avila recently accepted a scholarship from the National Federation of the Blind at a ceremony in Vancouver, Washington. Blind since birth, Avila works closely with staff in YVCC’s Disability Support Services to accomplish his educational goals. Below is his inspiring story in his own words. My name is Humberto Avila and I am currently a sophomore attending Yakima Valley Community College. I am and have always been blind. I was born in Mexico in 1991. I began to talk and walk at age 2 and grew up as a regular kid. I began going to school at the age of five and learned Braille. I entered a regular school in the first grade and continued my studies until the middle of my 8th grade year. In November of 2005, at the age of 14, I was brought to the United States by my parents who wanted me to have better opportunities for education and training for employment. In Mexico, my parents had to buy all my material for school including cumbersome Braille devices, which were very expensive and they could not afford. In the United States everything I needed was provided as part of my high school education. The people here are very nice and I have found greater opportunities for success. I attended Davis High School, averaged a 3.3 GPA, and participated in extracurricular activities. I played the violin for my high school orchestra, and for many local events. I also traveled with the orchestra to play at the Lilac Festival in Spokane for two consecutive years. In addition, I played in a student Mariachi band and gained music skills as well as the opportunity to volunteer at the same time. I currently play the piano for my church choir at St. Paul Cathedral every other Sunday. In addition to my interest in music, I also served on the staff for my high school newspaper, The Five Star, where I wrote stories ranging from news, features, and opinions. Besides being a staff member, I became the online editor and put all the stories of the paper that were in print to the web for everyone to see. By the end of the class, I was awarded for being the online editor of the year. Last year I entered my first year of college, and since then, I have gained great experience and increased my learning academically. The weekend of October 19, I traveled to Everett, Washington for the National Federation of the Blind of Washington State Convention to accept a $3,000 scholarship. It was a life-changing experience being able to get this award. In addition to getting the award, I met many people who are blind and visually impaired and made many friends. This scholarship will cover the cost of my tuition and books since I do not qualify for federal financial aid or state grants. I would like to transfer from YVCC to a 4-year university in Washington to earn a bachelor’s degree in education with a minor in information technology. My goal is to become an instructor of the blind with a specialty in teaching assistive technology. I love computers, and I think I will be able to teach them to others, as well as the different adaptive technologies that are out there.
Information submitted by YVCC Student Humberto Avila.
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