Calendar www.yvcc.edu/calendar
March 4: Taste, Tour & Teach Join us for the annual Taste, Tour & Teach. The free event will include an evening of wine education and wine tasting. It will be held from 5:00-8:00pm at Yakima Valley Vintners, YVCC’s Teaching Winery, located on the YVCC Grandview Campus. For more information: 509.574.6810.
March 5: Signature Style January 13: Home Basketball Game Come cheer for men’s and women’s basketball. For a complete list of upcoming athletic events: www.goyaks.com
January 14-February 20: Fibonacci The Larson Gallery hosts Fibonacci. This exhibit explores the application of the Fibonacci sequence, discovered by Leonardo Bonacci (c.1170-C.1250) and its application to design and appearance in nature. An opening reception will be held January 14 from 5:00-7:00pm. For more information: 509.574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
February 6: Sealant Day YVCC’s Dental Hygiene Program hosts the 23rd Annual Free Dental Sealant Day on Saturday, February 6. Sealant Day provides free dental sealants, fluoride varnish, and visual dental exams for youth ages 4-21. To schedule an appointment: 509.574.4917.
February 20: Science Olympiad YVCC hosts middle school students from across the Yakima Valley to compete in a variety of science-based challenges. Top performing schools earn an invitation to the State Tournament. For additional information: www.yvcc.edu/calendar
The Larson Gallery presents Signature Style. The event will celebrate style, fashion, and lifestyle in the Yakima Valley and will be held at 4th Street Theatre at 6:00pm. Proceeds benefit the Larson Gallery and the Capitol Theatre. For more information: 509.574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
March 10-April 16: Functional Art The Larson Gallery presents Functional Art. The national juried exhibition serves a utilitarian purpose – how the artists express their self through items such as clothing, textiles, jewelry, tableware, tools, fixtures, and furniture. An opening reception will be held Thursday, March 10 from 5:00-7:00pm. For more information: 509.574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
March 31-April 1: Auditions for YVCC’s Production of Chicago YVCC playmasters will hold auditions for the musical, Chicago, March 31-April 1 from 3:00-6:00pm in Kendall Hall Auditorium. Open to YVCC students and the community. Performances will be held June 3-6. For more information: 509.574.4837 or abickley@yvcc.edu
Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Available The YVCC Foundation is accepting student scholarship applications for the 2016-17 academic year. Each year the YVCC Foundation awards over $400,000 in scholarships to students. Completed applications are due March 14. For more information: 509.574.4645 or www.yvcc.edu/foundation
Contents 3 4 6 7 8
Welcome Campus News Undergraduate Research Upward Bound Summer Institute Annual Report to the Community
13 14 16 17 18 19
Produced: Niki Hopkins and Stefanie Menard Photographs: Niki Hopkins, Stefanie Menard, and Jordan Vidmore Published: December 2015 If you would like to be added or removed from our mailing list, please contact us: Yakima Valley Community College Community Relations PO Box 22520 • Yakima, WA 98907-2520 communityrelations@yvcc.edu / 509.574.4646
f
Like us on
New Program Offerings Student Activities Larson Gallery Athletics Alumni YVCC’s People
Cover Photo:
A YVCC student works on her project during a painting class this fall.
Back Cover Photo:
Students in YVCC’s Vineyard and Winery Technology program gain hands-on experience in YVCC’s Teaching Winery. For more information: www.yvcc.edu/wine
www.facebook.com/YakimaValleyCC Yakima Valley Community College does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, sex, genetic information, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. All inquiries regarding compliance should be directed to the Director of Human Resource Services, YVCC, South 16th Ave. & Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima, WA 98902; or call 509.574.4670.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT
Dr. Linda Kaminski at the Black and White Gala hosted by the Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce.
Community Service Award On October 22, 2015 YVCC President Dr. Linda Kaminski was presented the 2015 Ted Robertson Community Service Award from the Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce during their annual Black and White Gala. Dr. Kaminski was recognized for her inspiring leadership, achievements, and commitment to the improvement of our community.
3
On September 14th we welcomed our faculty and staff to a new academic year with our traditional convocation week. Among them were 51 new employees who were hired during the previous year. This was a record number. During convocation, staff and faculty can meet to discuss important initiatives that will continue during the year. The focus for this year was the new Pathways Advising model which will help students to better identify the educational programs that best meet their goals and move them more quickly toward graduation. Fall also marked the opening of the new Palmer Martin Hall for classes and provided the first opportunity for students to use the newly landscaped area on the south side of campus. This outdoor plaza was made possible by the removal of an old storage area. The new trees, walkways, and benches make the south side of campus an inviting place to spend time and study. We also welcomed our first class of students in our bachelor of applied science in information technology networking-system administration degree. Like the bachelor degree in business management which began a year ago, many of these students have lived and worked in our community for many years but never thought that they would achieve their dreams of a bachelor’s degree. We are already in the planning stages for a third degree. If approved we will offer a bachelor of applied science degree in dental hygiene next fall. Finally, in late September, we were thrilled to learn that we were awarded a $3.25 million Title V Developing Hispanic Serving Institutions Cooperation Grant from the US Department of Education. Under this five year grant, YVCC will partner with Central Washington University to analyze and improve student support services to encourage completion, identify and work with students who have dropped out of college and want to return to complete their degrees, and develop clear pathways leading from associate degrees through bachelor degrees. This grant will positively impact all YVCC students. This issue of the Campus Update includes more information about our grants and new bachelor degree as well as other activities and programs. One of our core values is serving the community and you are an integral partner in providing and sustaining excellent educational opportunities. Thank you for helping us to make a difference in the lives of our students.
Sincerely,
Linda Kaminski, Ed.D. President
Board of Trustees Dr. Sara Cate • Rosalinda Mendoza • Robert Ozuna • Lisa Parker • Patricia Whitefoot
CAMPUS NEWS
4
New Bachelor of Applied Science Degree This fall YVCC began offering its second bachelor of applied science degree in information technology networking – system administration (BASIT). The program is designed for students who have earned an associates degree and need a pathway to pursue a bachelor’s degree. The program combines lower-division technical and transfer courses with upper division credits in information technology with emphasis in networking and system administration, resulting in an application-oriented, four-year degree. Designed with academic rigor, the bachelor of applied science degree will enable graduates to apply for admission into many university master’s degree programs or enter the workforce. Student Pamela Gabbard was excited to enroll in YVCC’s new program. “Without YVCC’s BASIT program I would not be working toward my bachelor’s First cohort of students in YVCC’s new bachelor of applied degree,” stated Gabbard. The program interested me because it was offered with science program. night classes and an online component. The potential earnings from finishing the program are very high. IT network administration is interesting and fun for me,” she concluded. YVCC’s bachelor of applied science degrees cater to working adults. Full-time students, those taking 15 credits per quarter, may finish the program in two years. This program is also open for part-time enrollment. Information is available online at www.yvcc.edu/BASIT
Pacific Region Trustees Award
YVCC Board Chair Lisa Parker and Dr. Linda Kaminski at the ACCT Award Ceremony.
The Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) recently presented YVCC President Dr. Linda Kaminski with the 2015 Pacific Region CEO Award. Dr. Kaminski was recognized for her efforts to increase the college’s student retention rates across a range of learners, from literacy to baccalaureate degrees. The award also identifies her implementation of High School 21+, a competency-based high school equivalency program for adult learners without a high school diploma. YVCC, under the leadership of Dr. Kaminski, joined the Achieving the Dream (ATD) student success initiative in 2006 and has been an ATD Leader College since 2010, mentoring other colleges that join the program. The ACCT Pacific Region consists of Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and the Pacific Islands, and British Columbia and the Yukon Territory in Canada. Kaminski was honored at the ACCT Congress in San Diego, CA on October 16.
Title V Grant YVCC, in partnership with Central Washington University (CWU), was recently awarded a US Department of Education Title V Developing Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Cooperative Grant. Titled “Finish What You Started” the grant provides nearly $3.25 million for the next five years. Title V HSI funding is available to institutions that serve a high percentage of low-income students, have less than the national average of funding to spend per student, and whose student population is at least 25% Hispanic. As the lead institution for this grant, more than 60% of YVCC’s students receive federal financial aid, the funding per student is approximately $1,100 below the national average, and the percentage of Hispanic students enrolled in degree programs is 47.5%. “We are extremely pleased to have been awarded a Title V Developing HSI Cooperative Grant,” stated YVCC President Dr. Linda Kaminski. “These are highly competitive grants. This is an outstanding opportunity to collaboratively develop and implement new strategies that will help students to complete their degrees and to promote a smooth transition to CWU,” she continued. Under this five year grant, YVCC will partner with CWU to analyze and improve student support services to encourage enrollment and completion, identify and work with students who have dropped out of college and want to return to complete their degrees, and develop clear transfer pathways leading from an associate degree through a bachelor’s degree.
STUDENT VOICES Federico Martinez YVCC successfully completed the 5th summer of undergraduate research projects offering 27 students the opportunity to receive world-class education here in the Yakima Valley. Following the application process student Federico Martinez was selected to join the biology department’s research team. Martinez first attended YVCC through the Running Start Program while attending Toppenish High School. Following graduation he transferred to the University of Washington (UW) and graduated in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree. “When I graduated from the UW, it was very difficult to find work with my degree. I returned to YVCC again eight years after my Running Start days to attend the YVCC Medical Assisting Program,” stated Federico Martinez. In 2013 he earned an associate of applied science degree in medical assisting and began working at Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic. Interested in continuing his education he began taking pre-med courses at the college. “My parents always told me that the key to a better life was a good education. That has always motivated me to keep learning and studying. There were a few quarters where I was balancing a full-time job and a full-time student schedule. Some nights I would be too tired to study, but thinking about the lives I wanted for my sons helped me look ahead and push myself to go further,” he continued. This summer he did research on the water quality of the Yakima River and its tributaries. “This research project opened doors, allowing me to access aspects of our community that many will never see. It also allowed me to meet ecology professionals and leaders in the field. Participating in this project was beneficial because it will give me a competitive edge when it comes time to apply to medical school,” stated Martinez. He will complete his coursework in June 2016.
5
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
YVCC partners with Heritage University to offer opportunities for summer research through a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) grant from the US Department of Education.
Water Quality This summer Biology Instructor Claire Carpenter directed student research on a freshwater monitoring project. Students analyzed temperature, pH, nitrates, phosphates, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and fecal coliforms from Wide Hollow Creek and the Yakima River. They also evaluated how the duck pond at Randall Park influenced these measures of water quality. Their goal was to determine the overall water quality of the Wide Hollow Creek, and then compare it to undisturbed reference streams within the same watershed. The group also job shadowed stream biologists at the Department of Ecology and toured restoration projects with ecologists from the Yakama tribe. Analysis of the Pet Population Mathematics Instructor Michal Ramos worked with students on a project focused on pet population and the well-being of animals in the Lower Yakima Valley. Students collected 250 surveys from residents of Grandview, Granger, Mabton, Wapato, and Toppenish. The pet care survey aimed to answer statistics such as: average number of pets per household, common types of vaccines given, average number of pets who are spayed or neutered, demographics of pet owners, and how people perceive the importance of veterinary care. Additional time was spent answering analytical questions for which they created charts and graphs to illustrate comparisons and discover correlations. Database Programming Information Technology Instructor Stefan Apperson and Biology Instructor Dr. Matthew Loeser teamed up with student Don “DJ” Martin to create a database programming project. Martin created a web-based program to connect with a database that allowed researchers to log their data from numerous locations while they were in the field. His project also included writing a technical user guide that will allow future students to benefit from this tool.
6
BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT
• Water Quality Instructor: Claire Carpenter Students: Michelle Garza, Frederico Martinez, Molly Oliver • Field Ecology Instructor: Jerred Seveyka Students: Josh Johnson, Katie Hovenkotter, Josh Fender • Forest Ecology Instructor: Dr. Matthew Loeser Students: Cortnea Austin, Kimberly Van Horn, Ramses Yates
CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT
• Water Quality Instructor: Dr. Tanya Knickerbocker Students: Elias Sugarman, Olga Bozin, Gabriel Lepe, Rob Ring, Kelsie Herrington, Alex Soto, Yoni Rodriguez • Hop Research Instructor: Shawn Teng Students: Veronica Capetillo, Monet Hofmann, Akshay Thapar
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
• Quadcopter Project Instructor: Rajkumar Raj Students: Christian Carlos, Miguel Contreras, Maya Hess, Richard Lowry
MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
• Humane Society Survey Data Instructor: Michal Ramos Students: Talena Yallup, Ryer Fassett, Henry Godoy
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT • Database Programming Instructors: Stefan Apperson and Dr. Matthew Loeser Student: Don “DJ” Martin
COMMUNITY PARTNERS:
Heritage University, John I. Haas, Inc, Toppenish Waste Water Treatment Plant, Kittitas Waste Water Treatment Plant, Washington State Department of Ecology, Yakama Tribe, City of Yakima, US Forest Service, The Nature Conservancy of Washington, South Central Washington Resource Conservation and Development Council, University of Washington, Yakima Humane Society, Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.
UPWARD BOUND
7
YVCC Upward Bound Summer Institute 2015 Students Travel to Yellowstone National Park
YVCC’s Upward Bound is part of a national US Department of Education program to prepare low-income, first-generation students for college. Currently YVCC serves 110 students from Wapato, Toppenish, Granger, and Sunnyside high schools. One of the most beneficial components of YVCC’s Upward Bound is an intensive residential summer session where students live on campus in the Student Residence Center for 6-weeks while taking college-like classes. It also includes a one-week learning camp where students have the opportunity to travel to an off campus location and participate in hands-on learning experiences. This year 24 students traveled to Yellowstone National Park. The trip included stops at Lewis & Clark Caverns, Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, North Fork Shoshone River, Buffalo Bill Center of the West, and the Museum of the Rockies. Designed and facilitated by Upward Bound Summer Science Instructor Mary Keffer, these stops provided students the opportunity to expand their knowledge learned in classroom, and gather data for research projects and essays when they returned to campus. In addition to science curriculum, students also took math and English courses. The culminating English project was a book of student essays titled Yellowstone and Other Natural Wonders, which was modeled after the nature essays of William Dietrich in his collection Natural Grace. Cover artwork was designed by student Esther Estrada. Student Karla Villanueva found this opportunity very helpful. “On the learning trip, I was able to gain hands-on experience that directly applied to all of the concepts that I’d learned in the classroom. It allowed me to have a greater understanding and appreciation for the geological processes that occur and the natural wonders that exist in our world,” stated Villanueva. As a first-generation student she felt fortunate to be able to participate in YVCC’s program and hopes that others will be able to take advantage of similar opportunities. “These opportunities provide students experiences that enlighten and shape our education in ways that our parents simply cannot provide because of economic and cultural barriers,” she concluded. “The most beneficial thing they experienced during the trip was the way it brought them together,” stated YVCC Upward Bound Coordinator Laura Yolo. “Before the summer program they were small-groups of students from different towns. On the trip they had to rely on each other in the field as they worked together to accomplish research and recording for their projects. They began to develop a new community that hadn’t existed before. Because of the trip, these students have a deeper well of support to draw from and a wider community to help them stay focused on their educational and personal goals,” she concluded. For more information about YVCC’s Upward Bound visit www.yvcc.edu/UpwardBound
YAKIMA VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT
Annual Report • Academic Year 2014-2015 Enrollment
Operating Resources
8,250 Annual Headcount 4,503 Full-Time Equivalent
$20,000,000
Total $26,385,570
State Operating Funds $16,308,320 62%
Graduating Class 1,054 Graduates 1,188 Total Degrees and Certificates Earned
$15,000,000
Employees 328 Full-Time Employees 40% Faculty 44% Classified 7% Exempt/Professional 9% Administrative
Tuition $9,311,170 35%
$10,000,000
$5,000,000 Local Funds $766,080 3%
0
State & Federal Grants & Contracts
Financial Aid
$3,000,000
$20,000,000
Total $4,177,680
Federal Grants $2,547,819 61%
Total $25,559,192
Grants and Waivers $16,513,119 65%
$2,500,000 Local Grants & Contracts $1,600,451 38%
$2,000,000
$15,000,000
$10,000,000
$1,500,000
Student Loans $7,235,773 28%
$1,000,000
$5,000,000 $500,000
0
State Grants $29,410 1%
0
Scholarships $1,343,165 Work Study 5% Outside Agency $343,417 $123,718 1% 1%
A Look at Our Students Vocational 26%
40 or Above 12%
Academic 41%
Under 20 26%
Multiracial or Other Race African American 2% 2% Asian/Pacific Islander 1% Native American 3%
30-39 16%
Developmental 13%
Course Type
Age
20-29 46%
Hispanic 56%
White 37%
Ethnicity
Basic Skills 20%
College Infrastructure Projects
Palmer Martin Hall
Toppenish Learning Center*
Campus Operations
Campus Master Plan
In March 2015 YVCC completed a comprehensive Master Plan Report outlining future growth and development on the Yakima and Grandview campuses. The plan also included YVCC’s learning centers in Ellensburg, Toppenish, and Sunnyside.
Campus Operations
YVCC is currently constructing a new Campus Operations complex on the Yakima Campus. The $6.5 million project includes a 13,144 sq. foot shop and 10,236 sq. feet of office space. The building will be home to the college’s facility operations, grounds, custodial services, security, and print shop. Construction began in June 2015 and will be completed by April 2016.
Kendall Hall Refurbish
Kendall Hall Auditorium on the Yakima Campus was recently refurbished. Upgrades include new technology for the lighting and sound systems.
Palmer Martin Hall Grand Opening
The grand opening celebration of Palmer Martin Hall, on the Yakima Campus, was held on June 2, 2015. During the event employees and members from the community had the opportunity to tour the new facility. The building opened for classes in the fall of 2015.
Prior Hall Remodel
Prior Hall, the original building on the Yakima Campus, was remodeled in the spring of 2015. The second floor now includes five new classrooms with state-of-the-art technology and teaching stations.
Toppenish Learning Center
YVCC broke ground on the Toppenish Learning Center in September 2015. The $2.5 million project will provide 7,100 sq. feet of instructional space, a reception area, and offices. Construction will be completed in March 2016. *Artwork courtesy of BORArchitecture, PLLC
Data for this report provided by the 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. Published: December 2015.
DEGREES & CERTIFICATES DEGREES BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE
Business Management Information Technology Networking - System Administration
ASSOCIATE TRANSFER
Anthropology Art Biology Business Chemistry Communication/Speech Drama Early Childhood Education- DTA Central Washington University Economics Education - DTA Heritage University Education - Elementary Education with Teaching ESL Education - K-8 Teaching Certificate with a TESL Minor Engineering English Ethnic Studies Geography Geology History Mass Communications Mathematics Modern Languages Music Nutrition Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Sociology
ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE TRANSFER
ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE
Accounting Aerospace Machining Technology Agribusiness Automotive Service Technology Business Entrepreneurship Specialty Business Management Business Marketing Specialty Business Technology - Administrative Assistant Business Technology - Bilingual Office Assistant Business Technology - Legal Office Assistant Business Technology - Medical Office Assistant Business Technology - Bilingual Medical Office Assistant Chemical Dependency Studies Civil Engineering Technology Construction Design Criminal Justice Dental Hygiene Early Childhood Education Early Childhood Education - Preschool Special Education Early Childhood Education - Para-Educator Information Technology - General Information Technology - Network Administrator Information Technology - Support Specialist Medical Assisting Medical Billing and Coding Nursing Perry - Electrical Technology Perry - Instrumentations/Industrial Automation Tech Radiologic Science Surgical Technology Veterinary Technology Vineyard Technology Winery Technology
Agriculture Early Childhood Education- DTA Eastern Washington University
CERTIFICATES
YVCC offers over 100 different Certificates of Achievement to meet the educational goals of students in various fields of study. Certificates vary in completion length and are designed to meet industry needs to increase students job skills.
EXPLORE YAKIMA VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE DEGREE AND CERTIFICATE OPTIONS WWW.YVCC.EDU List published: 11.24.2015
NEW PROGRAMS
13
Integrated Basic Skills Training YVCC offers several opportunities through its Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training (I-BEST) programs. I-BEST enable students to develop their literacy and job skills in order to be prepared for the workforce and continue college course work. The program pairs a professional/technical content instructor with an adult basic education instructor to help students progress in reading, writing, and math while being trained in a career field. This fall YVCC offered it’s newest I-BEST program in the field of Information Technology (IT). YVCC’s I-BEST IT is a three-quarter program that helps students develop proficiency with installing and configuring operating systems. Students also develop knowledge in basic system repair and maintenance. After completing the program, student have the opportunity to purse an associate degree through YVCC’s Information Technology Program. YVCC also offers I-BEST programs in Nursing Assistant Certificate, and Business Technology (BTECH) certificates in Office Skills I and Office Skills II. I-BEST NAC is a two-quarter program that prepares students for a career as a nursing assistant. After completion of YVCC’s program, students are eligible to test for the Washington State Nursing Assistant Certificate license offered by the Department of Health and the Department of Aging and Long Term Care. YVCC’s I-BEST Business Technology Office Skills I and Office Skills II are Students in YVCC’s I-BEST IT program. each two-quarters in length and allow students to build computer and technology skills in preparation for entry level work in an office setting. This program also helps launch students into other business technology career paths. Grant funds are available for eligible students. For more information contact WorkFirst Coordinator Kayla Crawford at 509.574.4745 or visit: www.yvcc.edu/ccc
Step Up to College In partnership with the Grandview School District YVCC is excited to announce a new program titled Step Up to College. This program offers individuals who live within the boundaries of the Grandview School District, and will not graduate from high school on time, a chance to earn their high school diploma. Students admitted in the program can enroll in courses at the YVCC Grandview Campus. These courses can include English as a Second Language, Adult Basic Education, college level transfer, and professional technical courses that prepare students to enter the workforce. Step Up to College also recognizes high school credit students have already learned. Students earn additional credits when they demonstrate competency in a subject. Competency can be demonstrated by passing a class, earning a certain score on a placement exam, or showing documented evidence that the student has already gained knowledge needed to meet course outcomes through training and/or work experience. “The program provides eligible students a great opportunity to earn their high school diploma and move directly into college coursework,” stated Dr. Bryce Humpherys, dean of Basic Skills and the Grandview Campus. “It is the first program of its kind in the state of Washington and a fabulous partnership between the Grandview School District and YVCC,” he concluded. Student Marco De La Mora learned about the program when he was visiting his former high school and ran into a counselor who encouraged him to return to school. “I like this program. I haven’t been in school for a while and some of the classes are hard, but teachers are always willing to help you,” stated Marco De La Mora. “This is a good opportunity for me to go back to school and earn a diploma,” he concluded. Students under 21 years of age are not required to pay tuition. Students who turn 21 without earning their high school diploma will automatically move into YVCC’s HS21+ program. HS21+ students pay tuition of $25 per quarter. For more information: 509.882.7014.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES Welcome Back The Associated Students of Yakima Valley Community College (ASYVCC) and the Grandview Student Council (GSC) each hosted celebrations this fall to welcome students to campus for the 2015-16 academic year. Yakima’s celebration served over 850 individuals and provided them with free lunch and the opportunity to learn about various student clubs and academic programs. The event also included a performance by Comedian Adam Grabowski. In Grandview the celebration served 130 students. The student government host these events to help students get involved in campus life. “It is important to engage new and returning students in building relationships with fellow students and college staff to establish a sense of community and unity,” stated GSC President Savanna Kresse. Disability Awareness Month For the third year, YVCC’s Disability Support Services (DSS) has hosted events during the month of October to help raise awareness about disabilities. Events were held on both the Yakima and Grandview campuses. DSS invited representatives from local agencies to the Yakima Campus to provide information and share hands-on activities about various disabilities. Additional events included video sessions of TED Talks, a lecture on service animals and therapy dogs, and a modified fitness day. “I feel it’s important to continue to foster awareness on campus and host events that draw our students and community together, so we can strive for; more inclusion, more acceptance, and more equality,” stated YVCC Sign Language Interpreter Ashley Jaramillo. “Many of our students are going to leave the Yakima Valley and have the opportunity to make impactful changes in the world and the more we foster change and adaptability the more successful contributing citizens we can send out to the world,” she concluded. In Grandview GSC hosted guest speaker Lance Rowe who lectured on service animals and therapy dogs. In addition, they offered information and resources for students with disabilities. “It’s important for YVCC to host events like these because students should understand the struggles people with disabilities live with every day. By putting themselves in others shoes it can really help students become aware of the simple things many of us take for granted,” stated GSC Ambassador Bernie Rangel. This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Passed in 1990, the ADA works to ensure the civil rights of people with disabilities. YVCC, along with colleges and organizations around the nation, signed proclamations that celebrated and recognized the progress that has been made by reaffirming the principles of equality and inclusion and recommitting our efforts to reach full ADA compliance. Veteran’s Day Dental Outreach In honor of Veterans’ Day YVCC’s Dental Hygiene Program offered free dental exams, x-rays, and cleanings to area veterans and active duty soldiers. “Completion of the Veterans’ Day Dental Clinic and other community outreach events enriches the dental hygiene curriculum through inclusion of service learning,” stated YVCC Dental Hygiene Instructor Cheri Podruzny. “These types of activities also help to meet the needs of under-served populations in the community and improve overall health through the provision of quality oral healthcare services,” she concluded. In total, 18 individuals were served. YVCC’s Dental Hygiene Clinic provides affordable services. Patients of all ages are seen throughout the academic year, including seniors and children. For more information call the YVCC Dental Clinic at 509.574.4917.
15
Playmasters This fall YVCC Playmasters hosted the production of Prelude to a Kiss. A metaphysical romantic comedy about a young bride and an old man who each make a wish, resulting in their souls switching bodies. All is well until the young bridegroom experiences a very odd honeymoon that leads him on a sweet, funny, and poignant journey through time and space, at the end of which, he hopes, he will get his bride back. The production was directed by YVCC Drama Instructor Alicia Bickley. Cast included: Tim Jeske, Joy Clark, Azalea Koestler, Isaiah Sanford, Franki Cioci, Cody Jordan, Kingsavarkied Harvin, Eduardo Rodriguez, Christopher Mercy, Giovanni Severino, and Luke Morgan. Technical support and design provided by Joshua Legate, Donelle Pitzer, Meghan Muma, Brooke Waits, Ruben Martinez, Matthew Feltrup, Brock Jacobson, and Jacob Sapp. “I chose this show because its portrayal of love, particularly romantic love, is refreshingly truthful. We are not all fortunate enough to meet and marry our soul-mate. But when we are lucky enough to find that person, whoever that person may be, whatever he or she may look like, or sound like, or act like — we recognize that person instantly, on some level. And if we are lucky enough to spend the rest of our lives with that individual? Well, then, I believe we experience a genuine miracle,” stated Alicia Bickley. YVCC playmasters has been invited to perform Prelude to a Kiss at this year’s Kennedy Center/American College Theatre (KCACTF) Region’s VII’s Festival in Denver, Colorado in February. KCACTF is a national theater program involving 20,000 students from colleges and universities nationwide. Diversity Series The annual YVCC Diversity Series kicked-off this fall with its focus on engaging students. Now led by a committee of YVCC faculty and staff the first event Slices of YVCC encouraged students to be creative and make a paper slice of pie that represented who they are. Students gathered in the HUB to share a pizza lunch and talk about diversity. Later this fall the series hosted its second event Dtalks: Refugees: Global Discussion. A panel of YVCC and Central Washington University instructor lead the conversation. “The YVCC Diversity Series is excited to present opportunities for building awareness and understanding around diversity and inclusion issues,”’ stated YVCC Counselor Maribel Jimenez. For more information contact: mjimenez@yvcc.edu. Trunk O’ Treat ASYVCC along with the Art Club, Dental Hygiene Club, Business Club, MEChA Club, Philosophy Club, Phi Theta Kappa, Playmasters, Tiin-Ma Club, and Writing Club hosted Trunk O’ Treat. The October event provided a fun and safe atmosphere for children of all ages to trick-or-treat. “We wanted to host this event in order to give back to the community,” stated ASYVCC Director of Student Programs I Giovanni Severino. “It provided a safe and familiar place where students were able to bring their kids,” he continued. The event served over 1,000 children. Breast Cancer Awareness During the month of October ASYVCC and GSC celebrated Breast Cancer Awareness Month by providing informational booths on both the Yakima and Grandview campuses to help explain the importance of preventative care screenings. They also sold t-shirts, baked goods, and gathered donations. GSC’s fundraising supported Wellness House in Yakima and raised $140, while ASYVCC’s efforts benefited Pink Fund, Inc and raised over $600.
LARSON GALLERY
16
From left: Golden Age by Justin Gibbons; Artists Justin Gibbons, Renee Adams, Scott Mayberry, and Kristen ‘Kaiten’ Michael during the Larson Gallery’s Metamorphosis Exhibit; Goldfishers by Kristen Michael.
Metamorphosis This September the Larson Gallery opened Metamorphosis, a unique exhibition featuring the artwork of Justin Gibbens, Renee Adams, Scott Mayberry, and Kristen ‘Kaiten’ Michael. A master craftsman, Justin Gibbens is trained in both scientific illustration and traditional Chinese painting. His stylized and embellished beasts speak of evolution, mutation, and biodiversity. He received his BA in painting and drawing from Central Washington University (CWU) in 1998 and a scientific illustration certificate from the University of Washington in 2003. Fascinated with the natural world, Renee Adams’ sculptural creations are based loosely in reality and largely in fantasy. Taking an intimate look at nature, she selectively morphs components from flora and fauna. Born in Frankfurt, Germany Adams expressed an interest in the natural world at a young age. She received her BFA in metalsmithing from Colorado State University in 1995 and her MFA in sculpture from CWU in 1999. Scott Mayberry is a pop surrealist painter whose work has been described as “playful and provocative.” His latest work examines the outcropping of architecture—both cultural and structural—from the fundamentals of nature, and the brave and beautiful drive of humanity to keep on creating. He earned his BA and MA in art from CWU and his MFA from the University of Texas, Austin. The constant battle between man made objects and nature is evident in Kristen “Kaiten” Michael’s intricate yet delicate paintings on wood. She combines nature, humor, and violence with a childish simplicity. Kristen graduated from CWU in 2010 with a BA in fine arts. For more information on upcoming exhibits and events, visit: www.larsongallery.org
Central Washington Artists’ Exhibition
Wilson Creek-Autumn by Cynthia Krieble
This year the Larson Gallery celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Central Washington Artists’ Exhibition. The original exhibition was held in 1955. Titled, Artists of the Yakima Valley, this inaugural exhibition was limited to artists from Yakima County. By 1957 the exhibition had expanded to include artists from Ellensburg. In 1958 the exhibit expanded once more to include artists from Richland to Wenatchee, and the name was changed to the Central Washington Artists’ Exhibit. That year the first prizes were established including a $25 award for Best in Show. This year’s exhibit received 282 entries from 113 artists. The show was juried by Greg Kucera, owner of the well-known Greg Kucera Gallery in Seattle. Kucera selected 66 works to be exhibited for the show that opened on November 5. Approximately $4,000 in awards were presented.
ATHLETICS
17
photo by Abigail Drollinger From left; YVCC Women’s Volleyball under the leadership of Head Coach Al Rogers; YVCC Women’s Soccer under the leadership of Interim Head Coach Kromah Tabbed.
New Baseball Coach Kyle Krustangel YVCC is pleased to announce the hiring of Kyle Krustangel as the new head baseball coach for the Yaks. Krustangel’s experience includes college, high school, and American Legion levels where he spent the past two seasons as an assistant coach for Whitworth University. He also was the head coach of the Spokane Bandits AAA American Legion team for the past three years. In the 2012-14 academic years, Krustangel coached baseball and taught history at Bridgeport High School in Bridgeport, WA and in 2014 was named Coach of the Year for the North Central Washington 2B Conference. A former intercollegiate student-athlete, Krustangel played one season at Big Bend Community College and three years for Whitworth University, twice being named to the All-Northwest Conference Team. “Kyle’s energy and organizational skills came across clearly during the hiring process,” stated YVCC Athletic Director Ray Funk. “It was quite apparent that he had thoroughly prepared for this opportunity,” he concluded. Krustangel replaces Marcus McKimmy, who was the head coach for the Yaks for four seasons (2011-15) and assisted the program for two seasons (2009-11). During McKimmy’s tenure, YVCC’s overall record was 115-73, winning the 2012 East Region Championship and qualifying for the NWAC Championship Tournament in 2012 and 2013. “I am very excited to get started and to reach out to all returning players and incoming recruits,” stated Coach Krustangel. “Coach McKimmy left this program in great shape and I am ready to build on his recent success,” he concluded.
Community Service This fall YVCC Men’s and Women’s basketball partnered with Children’s Village Parent to Parent Program to host the annual Mateo’s Mighty Warriors Basketball Camp. The program offers emotional support and information to families raising children with special health or developmental needs. YVCC players volunteered their time and skills to create a day of fun. Yaks were paired with campers, taking them through various basketball activities and games. This opportunity is not only valuable to the kids who attend by also to YVCC’s players. “All the smiles on the kids’ faces made me feel like a big brother,” stated YVCC Men’s Basketball Player DeVontè Luckett. “This was so much fun that I’d like to do this kind of community service more often,” he concluded. “This event is one of the highlights of our year,” said YVCC Women’s Basketball Head Coach Greg Oldham. “It is a great opportunity for the coaching staff to see our student-athletes in a different light and for our athletic programs to make a small impact on our community,” he continued.
ALUMNI
18 Alumni Highlight: Josh Gefre
Josh Gefre was born and raised in Moxee, WA. The son of a farm manager, Gefre spent much of his youth on a US Department of Agriculture Research Station. Following high school he began attending YVCC. “I attended YVCC for about five years. It was a long path for me,” stated Gefre. Unable to relocate to pursue higher education due to financial barriers, Gefre continued to work hard. “The biggest struggle was funding my own education and not being eligible for financial aid until the age of 23. I worked full- and part-time to pay for school. I became more determined and appreciated school a great deal by the time I graduated,” he continued. His dedication to school was recognized by his instructors. “Josh was a hard worker and he had a great attitude,” stated YVCC Biology Instructor Jerred Seveyka. “He overcame the challenges presented to him in the biology for majors sequence. He mastered volumes of complex information and always help his fellow classmates along the way,” he concluded. Gefre encourages students to explore the options community colleges offer when planning for their future. “I would definitely recommend YVCC for the first two years of college. The small class sizes allow for a better learning atmosphere while being more cost effective,” he stated. Gefre graduated in 2012 with an associate in science degree and transferred YVCC Alumni Josh Gefre on a recent fishing trip. to Washington State University where he majored in integrated plant sciences and minored in soil science. “I feel YVCC gave me a great foundation in biology that I build upon every day at work. I accomplished my goal of becoming an agronomist after seven years of schooling. I now work for a large 10,000 acre farm dealing with insects, plant diseases, nematodes, fertility concerns, and any chemical recommendations that need to take place,” he continued. He hopes others will purse their dreams. “For those who struggle with not being able to afford school financially, do not give up” he concluded.
Now Accepting Nominations: YVCC’s Distinguished Alumnus Award Nominate a YVCC alum for the annual Distinguished Alumnus Award given each June by the YVCC Alumni Association. Nominations are due January 18, 2015. For criteria and additional information: 509.574.4775 or www.yvcc.edu/alumni
Support YVCC’s Alumni Association YVCC is currently looking for interested alumni to serve on the Alumni Association Board of Directors. The Alumni Association meets monthly and works to fundraise for YVCC’s alumni scholarship and provide networking opportunities for graduates. For additional information: 509.574.4775 or www.yvcc.edu/alumni
Did You Know? In 1961 the Student Residence Center (SRC) dormitories were built. The men’s wing, Lyon Hall, was named after Charles Raymond Lyon a long-time member and secretary of the YVCC Corporation. The women’s wing, Hopf Hall, was named in honor of Julia Hopf. She taught biology and sociology at the college from 1934-1968. She also served as the Dean of Women and coached tennis. Today the SRC continues to provide housing for YVCC’s student-athletes, international students, and those interested in experiencing on campus housing.
PEOPLE
19 Biology Instructor Jeremy Buegge, with the help of Assistant Director of Facility Operations Casey Rice, recently received and installed a herbarium cabinet full of preserved plants from the Yakima Area Arboretum. Buegge spent the summer organizing the donation as well as sorting YVCC’s own student collection to create a useful resource for YVCC’s biology classes. Congratulations to Fitness Center Coordinator Dr. Kelsie Owen McKimmy who recently completed her doctor of psychology degree with an emphasis in health psychology.
Maria Lund
Assistant Dean of Student Services Marc Coomer was honored with the The Dr. Arnold Mitchem Leadership and Advocacy Award from the Northwest Association of Educational Opportunity Programs’ (NAEOP). This award recognizes a member of the NAEOP community who demonstrates a steadfast commitment to low-income and first generation students and exercises vigorous and influential leadership in the TRiO community at state, regional, or national level.
Chican@ Studies and Sociology Instructor Maria Cuevas’ had her panel paper accepted for the 2015 Gloria Anzaldua Conference at the Center for Mexican American Studies, University of Texas, Austin. Upward Bound Program Coordinators Al Garcia and Laura Yolo and Summer Science Instructor Mary Keffer, attended and presented at the The Northwest Association of Educational Opportunity Programs Annual Regional Conference. Their presentation focused on the 2015 summer learning camp to Yellowstone National Park. Congratulations to Maria Lund. She is award recipient of the Summer 2015 Classified Employee of the Quarter. Lund is a Credentials Evaluator II in Enrollment Services. She began working for the college in 2002. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife recently recognized YVCC Biology Instructor Dr. Matthew Loeser for his collaboration with Cowiche Canyon Conservancy as part of YVCC’s student undergraduate research on the North Fork Cowiche grazing monitoring project. Congratulations to Sociology and Ethnic Studies Instructor Dr. Keith Reyes who recently completed his doctor of education. Psychology Instructor Heidi Shaw coauthored a commentary on an article entitled, “How to learn about teaching: An evolutionary framework for the study of teaching behavior in humans and other animals” by M. S. Kline. The commentary appears in Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 38 (1), 2015. History and Geography Instructor Monty Walker was recently selected to receive funding from the US Department of Education to develop new curriculum. Walker will use the funds to attend a conference, workshop, and lecture at the University of Washington’s Ellison Center for Russian, East European, and Central Asian Studies with the ultimate goal of creating a Russian history course for YVCC. History Instructor Dr. Ken Zontek recently received an award from the National Endowment for the Humanities/Community College Humanities Association to participate in the Library of Congress Summer Scholars Program entitled On Native Grounds: Studies of Native American Histories and Land. Congratulations to Biology Instructor Dr. Blair Shean and his wife, Mary Lou, who were recently selected as the 2014 Yakima County Sheriff ’s Office Search and Rescue Volunteers of the Year. Congratulations to YVCC’s Surgical Technology Program for receiving the Annual Merit Award from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting for achieving a 100% pass rate on the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) examination for the cycle of August 1, 2014-July 31, 2015. Graduates obtaining national certification as a CST demonstrate, by examination, understanding of the basic competencies for safe patient care in the operating room.
PO Box 22520 Yakima, WA 98907-2520
Non-Profit US POSTAGE PAID Yakima, WA Permit #25
YAKIMA VALLEY VINTNERS YVCC’s Teaching Winery yvcc.edu/wine