Calendar www.yvcc.edu/calendar
July 6-9 & 27-30: Volleyball Camp Join YVCC for individual skills volleyball camps for grades 4-8 and 9-10. Fundamentals include setting, passing, serving, spiking, blocking, resistance training, and defense. Cost is $90.00. For more information: 574.4729 or www.goyaks.com
July 10-12 & 17-19: Basketball Tournament Join YVCC’s Basketball Program for the 2015 Summer Showdown Tournaments. Enjoy great competition and test your skills against players from the Yakima Valley. For more information: 574.4726 or www.goyaks.com
July 11: Getting to Know Your Digital Camera The Larson Gallery presents Getting to Know Your Digital Camera with Rob Prout. This workshop will help you become confident in knowing how to use your digital camera. Topics include why we take pictures, the digital capture process, when, why and how to adjust your camera’s settings, and how these settings can be changed creatively to get the images you want. The cost is $60. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
July 18: Introduction to 2-D Animation
The Larson Gallery presents Introduction to 2-D Animation with James Berg. In this workshop students will learn how to do a walk cycle, bouncing ball, and a bird flying cycle. Open to individuals 12 and up. The cost is $80. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
July 25: SmartPhone Photography The Larson Gallery presents SmartPhone Photography with Rob Prout. You always carry your phone, so why not take pictures? Learn how to use your settings, explore additional accessories, and photo applications. Prout will also discuss how to share your images with others by creating your own online gallery. The cost is $60. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
July 26: Color Me Healthy: Eat a Rainbow The Larson Gallery presents Color Me Healthy: Eat a Rainbow. Are you searching for a way to get your children to enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables? Join Chef Jessica Smith, a Jamie Oliver food revolution ambassador, for an interactive afternoon of preparing healthy and creative snacks that both you and your children will love to make and eat. In addition to tasting a rainbow of treats, you will be given recipes, ideas, and resources. For ages 8 and up. All children must have a parent or guardian present. The cost is $35/adults and $17/child. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
September 3: Home Soccer Game The women’s soccer team opens their first home game against Lower Columbia Community College at 12:00pm. For a complete list of upcoming athletic events visit: www.goyaks.com
September 9: Home Volleyball Game Come cheer for the women’s volleyball team as they battle Walla Walla Community College. The match begins at 6:00pm. For the complete list of upcoming games visit: www.goyaks.com
September 21: Fall Quarter Begins YVCC classes for fall quarter 2015 begin on September 21. New students must apply for admission prior to August 11. For more information: www.yvcc.edu
Contents 3 4 5 6 7
Welcome Campus News Palmer Martin Hall 86th Commencement Ceremony Commencement Awards
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Produced: YVCC Community Relations: Niki Hopkins and Stefanie Menard Photographs: Niki Hopkins, Stefanie Menard, and Jordan Vidmore Published: June 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
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Student Highlights Scholarships Larson Gallery Athletics YVCC’s People
Cover Photo:
Spanish Instructor Ricardo Chama congratulates a graduate at YVCC’s 86th Commencement Ceremony.
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YVCC now offers a bachelor of applied science degree in information technology networking - system administration. For more information: www.yvcc.edu/bachelors
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
Community Service Award The Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce selected YVCC President Dr. Linda Kaminski as the 2015 Ted Roberston Community Service Award recipient. The award, named after the late, longtime Yakima Herald-Republic publisher, was created in 1989 to recognize Yakima Valley residents who have made major contributions to the betterment of the greater Yakima area. Honorees are selected for their inspiring leadership, achievements, and commitment to the improvement of our community as business people and citizens of the Yakima Valley. The prestigious award has become the Yakima Valley’s highest recognition for civic accomplishment and involvement. Ronald R. King of Radio Yakima will also receive an award this year. Kaminski and King will be honored during the Chamber’s Annual Black & White Night Gala on October 22, 2015.
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Each year spring quarter is full of joyful excitement with the many completion and pinning ceremonies and, of course, commencement which uplifts our spirits and validates our reason for existing. This year’s 86th commencement exercise was near perfect. For the first time in our nineteen years of having commencement outdoors, there was not even a hint of rain on the day of the event. Our commencement speaker, Jeff Charbonneau, the 2013 National Teacher of the Year, was entertaining, inspiring, and brought a local familiarity to which the graduates readily related. Finally, as a clear indicator of our fast changing community demographics, 55% of this year’s graduates were comprised of students of color. In our 86 year history, this is the first year that the majority of our graduates were students of color. For pictures of the ceremony, go to: http://yvcc.smugmug.com/Commencement. Another reason that this spring quarter was so special was the grand opening of our newest facility – Palmer Martin Hall. This had to be one of the most watched construction projects in the valley with its location at the intersection of South 16th Avenue and Nob Hill Boulevard. The finished product was well worth the wait. Not only is it a model of beautiful design and workmanship on the exterior and interior, but it is also energy efficient with an array of solar panels on the roof. Finally one of the unanticipated pleasures of opening the new Palmer Martin Hall was connecting with an alum from the class of 1942 who now lives in California. Dr. Francis Roberts took classes from Instructor Frank J. Palmer and considered him to be “the greatest teacher in the world.” Francis, who is 92 years young, and her daughter came to Yakima on June 17th to tour the new facility that bears Palmer’s name. We had a wonderful visit and I learned a lot about the college in the early 40’s. She is certainly an outstanding testament to the high quality of our YVCC graduates. I hope you enjoy reading about all of these events in this issue of the Campus Update. We are especially grateful for your continued support of our students as we continue the remarkable legacy of Frank J. Palmer, Milton Martin, and so many others who have contributed to making YVCC a high quality educational institution for the past 87 years. Sincerely,
Linda Kaminski, Ed.D. President
Board of Trustees Dr. Sara Cate • Rosalinda Mendoza • Robert Ozuna • Lisa Parker • Patricia Whitefoot
CAMPUS NEWS
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YVCC Dedicates Parker Faller Field
On April 18th YVCC renamed the baseball stadium Parker Faller Field. As a personal request from S. Daryl Parker, and his wife Sherrie, the YVCC Board of Trustees approved the name change to remember Shirley Parker and recognize the accomplishments of YVCC’s former Coach, Instructor, and Athletic Director William Faller. Shirley Parker, father of S. Daryl Parker, built Parker Field in 1937 for his professional baseball team, the Yakima From left; Bill Faller during the dedication ceremony of Parker Faller Field; Faller and Sherrie Parker hold a photo Pippins. He later donated Parker Field from 1937 of Shirley Parker at the Grand Opening of Parker Field. to the college. Faller, a native of Milltown, Washington, graduated from Mount Vernon High School and then attended Western Washington College. World War II interrupted college and he joined the Air Force. He is a decorated veteran, having served as a navigator with a B-17 crew that was shot down over Germany in 1945. After the war he joined long-time friend Chuck ‘Bobo’ Brayton as baseball teammates at Washington State University, and he played two years of professional baseball. Faller moved to the Yakima Valley in 1950 and began teaching and coaching at Prosser High School, then Wapato High School, and in 1961 was hired at YVCC. During his 26 years at the college he served as head baseball and football coach, physical education instructor, and athletic director. Under his leadership YVCC baseball teams won 664 games, 11 conference championships, and 18 league titles placing him number one on the list of most successful baseball coaches in the history of the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC). In addition, Faller also led the 1964 football team to its first and only conference title. Upon his retirement in 1987, the NWAC named the conference baseball championship trophy in his honor. He has been inducted into the YVCC, Central Washington University, Washington State University, and NWAC Athletic Halls of Fame. Faller remains an active advocate for youth sports. He served as the first president of the Parker Youth & Sports Foundation from 2005 to 2008 and currently serves on the board of directors.
YVCC Welcomes New Board Member YVCC is pleased to welcome Dr. Sara Cate to the Board of Trustees. Dr. Cate earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Swarthmore College and a master’s degree in public health – epidemiology from the University of Michigan before attending the University of Washington’s School of Medicine where she also completed her residency training. She has worked as a family physician in Ellensburg and Yakima for the past 22 years. She also serves as a faculty at Central Washington Family Medicine’s residency program. Dr. Cate is passionate about teaching: from caring for her patients to mentoring medical students, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and CWFM residents, Dr. Cate is dedicated to helping train the next generation of medical professionals. She also strongly believes in YVCC’s efforts to provide access to quality education and career pathways particularly for those with limited resources. “I want to work to ensure that the education provided in this community is exceptional and accessible,” stated Dr. Cate. Appointed by the governor her term is effective June 12, 2015 until September 30, 2019.
National Science Foundation Grant YVCC was recently awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation. The grant is a collaboration between YVCC, South Seattle Community College, and Wenatchee Valley College to jointly develop and implement comprehensive technician-level training in the areas of viticulture, enology, and wine marketing/sales. This collaboration addresses the needs of the Washington grape and wine industry as well as develops best practices in curriculum design, professional development, and technical- and science-based training. The total amount received is $853,290. The award starts August 1, 2015 and will extend until July 31, 2018.
PALMER MARTIN HALL
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From left; YVCC President Dr. Linda Kaminski with Dr. Frances Roberts, class of 1942, during her visit and tour of the new Palmer Martin Hall. Roberts contacted the college to share her memories of Instructor Frank J. Palmer. From left; Distinguished guests at the ribbon cutting ceremony; Artist Kay Kirkpatrick,Washington State Representative Norm Johnson, Arts Washington Art in Public Places Program Manager Michael Sweney, Trustee Lisa Parker, Trustee Paul McDonald, President Dr. Linda Kaminski, Contractor Michael Moen, Architect Sheri Brockway, and Vice President of Administrative Services Teresa Holland.
Palmer Martin Hall Grand Opening Celebration On June 2nd YVCC hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the newest instructional facility Palmer Martin Hall. The south campus courtyard was filled with distinguished guests, current and retired faculty and staff, and community members all eager to get the first tour of the impressive structure. The 43,694 square foot building is home to art, communication studies, education, and modern languages instruction. It contains classrooms, art studios, digital art, language and speech labs, faculty offices, plus a seminar room and study spaces. The building replaces the original Palmer Hall and Martin Hall. Palmer Hall was built in 1957 and has served a number of purposes over the years. The “round” building was the first college library. Later it housed art studios, the print shop, and security offices. In 1966 the building was named after Frank J. Palmer who headed the college’s English and literature departments from 1929 until 1964. Martin Hall was originally built in the 1940’s. It was a drug store that was later purchased by the college and for many years housed foreign language instruction. In 1987 it was named after former Yakima School District Superintendent Milt Martin. Martin was also one of the founding members of the YVCC Foundation. The new facility was designed by Yakima firm BORArchitecture, PLLC and built by Yakima contractor G.H. Moen, LLC. Both companies have a long history with YVCC and have been instrumental in developing the footprint of YVCC’s Yakima and Grandview campuses. Architects Sheri Brockway and Allen Opfer, along with their team, provided an environmentally sensitive concept of sustainable architecture with the use of natural light, low energy consumption and organic, renewable resource materials. In addition, a solar panel array is installed on the roof. Palmer Martin Hall is registered with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) green building program with a certification goal of Gold, as established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute. Also unique to this building project is the artwork of northwest artist Kay Kirkpatrick. Kirkpartick used etched concrete, fitted glass, aluminum, stainless steel, and colored glass to create her piece Storylines. The artwork is incorporated into the design of Palmer Martin Hall and was commissioned by the college through the Washington State Arts Commission Art in Public Places Program. YVCC will hold classes in the new building beginning this fall. Palmer Martin Hall is located on the southeast corner of South 16th Avenue and Nob Hill Boulevard.
COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
This June YVCC celebrated its 86th Commencement Ceremony on Parker Faller Field. The class of 2015 was addressed by keynote speaker Jeff Charbonneau. Since 2011 Charbonneau has taught chemistry, physics, engineering, and robotics at Zillah High School. Charbonneau has been recognized at the local, state, and national levels for his excellence in teaching. In 2013 he was selected as the National Teacher of the Year and traveled to Washington, DC to receive the award from President Barack Obama. In 2015 he was one of 50 world-wide finalists for the Global Teacher Prize. Michelle Radder was selected as this year’s student speaker. Radder earned her associate in arts transfer degree and graduated with high honors. Returning to college to complete her degree after 10 years in the workplace Radder attended YVCC’s Grandview Campus. She works full-time as a nanny for a family with four children and has been inspired to pursue a degree in education with an emphasis in special education and art therapy. She plans to transfer to Central Washington University this fall. YVCC is proud of all of our graduates. The class of 2015 earned a total of 1,188 degrees and certificates in academic transfer and professional/technical areas of study. These graduates are now prepared to enter the workforce in their respective fields or transfer in pursuit of their bachelor’s degree. YVCC also honored students who completed coursework in the Basic Skills Division. These students are earning their high school diploma or GED, or are taking English courses while building workplace skills. Their accomplishments are recognized with completion ceremonies following each quarter of the academic year.
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Class of 2015 1,188 Degrees and Certificates Awarded 129 Attended the Grandview Campus 17 to 66 Age Range of Graduates 86 Running Start Students 71% Female 55% Students of Color 265 Graduating with Honors
COMMENCEMENT AWARDS Distinguished Alumnus Award Dr. Margit McGuire
Dr. Margit McGuire grew up on a fruit ranch in Parker Heights and graduated from Wapato High School. She knew she wanted to be a teacher and began that journey at YVCC graduating with an associate of arts degree in 1966. YVCC provided a strong foundation and made it financially possible for her to pursue higher education. She then attended Washington State University where she majored in elementary education and graduated with distinction. She began her teaching career in Stamford, Connecticut. Homesick for the Northwest, she moved back shortly thereafter. She completed an M.Ed. at Central Washington University and earned a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction at the University of Oregon. She taught at Seattle Pacific University for 12 years at the outset of her higher education career. Currently, Dr. McGuire is Professor of Teacher Education at Seattle University. Dr. McGuire’s lifelong passion for travel has taken her to over 60 countries. Some of the best travel experiences have been in Morocco, Iran, and Bhutan where she had the opportunity to interact with teachers and children.
Distinguished Service Award Craig Dwight
Craig Dwight is the Principal/Director of the Yakima Valley Technical Skills Center (YV-TECH). He earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial education and a master’s degree in school administration from Central Washington University. He later earned his superintendent’s certification from Washington State University. He has worked for the Yakima School District for 35 years. Dwight is being honored for his vision, innovative ideas, and continued commitment to collaboration. Under Dwight’s leadership YV-TECH has worked closely with YVCC to provide opportunities for students of the Yakima Valley. Together the two institutions have worked to maximize resources and improve student success. YV-TECH was originally located on YVCC’s Yakima Campus. During that time various programs shared classroom and lab space including automotive, dental assisting, medical/nursing, radio broadcasting, and TV/video production. Dwight continues to help foster new partnerships and is currently working on a joint Aerospace Machining Technology Program which will enable YVCC and YV-TECH students to work together, side by side, on an associate degree.
Emeritus Faculty Kathryn Bauer
A long-standing counselor and instructor, Kathryn Bauer worked at YVCC for 28 years before retiring in 2014. She attended Eastern Washington University (EWU) earning her bachelor of applied psychology degree with a minor in communications. After graduation she traveled in Australia and New Zealand. She married, then applied to graduate school. She was offered a full fellowship to attend EWU and earned her master’s in counseling psychology. During her tenure at YVCC she worked in various capacities. Bauer has represented the college at state councils and served on numerous committees. She has also presented at various state-wide and national conferences on the innovative work and best practices implemented at YVCC that support student success. “Deeply committed to student success, Kathryn’s service to the district was exemplary. She was an advocate for change on campus and demonstrated this with her work,” stated Dean of Student Services Leslie Blackaby. In her retirement Bauer has continued her private practice. She offers consulting on communication in the workplace for local businesses, banks, and churches. She has also continued to teach interpersonal communications for YVCC’s Communications Department.
8 Sherrie and Daryl Parker Faculty Award Martin Meister
Martin Meister is an instructor in the Arts and Sciences Division teaching mathematics. Meister was born and raised in Montana. Following high school, he attended Carroll College and earned his bachelors of science degree in mathematics. Following graduation he moved to Seattle. Shortly after, he spent six months working for the United Nations volunteering in the Central African country of Sudan. This experience sparked his interest in international work. Meister applied and was accepted into the United State Peace Corps. He spent three years teaching math in St. Vincent and the Grenadines - a small island off the coast of Venezuela. Upon returning to the states Meister earned his master’s degree in mathematics at Montana State University. He taught at Little Big Horn College on the Crow Indian Reservation in Montana and at Arizona Western College. Interested in relocating back to the Northwest he accepted the position at YVCC in 1998. Meister has made a tremendous impact on his students through his unique teaching style and the support he provides in the classroom.
Robert M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching Award Eric Anderson
Eric Anderson is an instructor in the Arts and Sciences Division, he teaches courses in anthropology. He was born in Minnesota and relocated with his family to Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho. As a kid he began reading National Geographic at his grandparents’ house. He attended community college then the University of Montana to earn his bachelor of arts degree in anthropology. He went on to complete his master’s degree in anthropology from Washington State University and became interested in teaching. He began his career at Lower Columbia College and in 1988 was hired at YVCC. Anderson’s academic interests include Youth Subcultures, Hunter and Gatherers, and the Upper Paleolithic Period. He has presented numerous papers and lectured at several professional and student conferences. His work has been published in Skinhead: An American Subculture and most recently he published a book review for the “Pacific Northwest Quarterly” academic journal. Anderson, his wife, and their daughter travel together often and their adventures usually include an anthropology, archaeology, or paleontology theme.
Darlene Koch Classified Employee of the Year De’Andre Sanders
De’Andre Sanders works as an Information Technology Specialist I in the Technology Services Department. Sanders was born in Los Angeles and spent time between there and Portland while he was growing up. He attended Davis High School in Yakima and then moved to Seattle to work at the Microsoft Campus. He drove the employee shuttle and had the opportunity to talk with employees about the information technology field. Wanting to be closer to family he moved back to Yakima and worked in the retail industry. During that time he met Peggy Keller, the late dean of YVCC’s Technology Services Department. Keller became an influential mentor for Sanders. She encouraged him to pursue his interest in information technology and to enroll at YVCC. Sanders qualified for YVCC’s Worker Retraining Program and was able to take classes part-time. As he continued with his coursework, he began working at YVCC part-time in the student computer labs. He excelled in his classes and earned his associate of applied science degree in hardware and software support. In 2005 he was hired full-time. His current role is providing support to the Yakima Campus community through his work with the Technology Services Helpdesk.
STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS
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Gregory ‘Mitch’ Mitchell Gregory ‘Mitch’ Mitchell enlisted in the United States Army after graduating from high school. He was stationed in Tacoma at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord (formerly Fort Lewis) and spent much of his career as a combat engineer. He served two tours in Iraq and spent time in Korea, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, and South America. In between his tours he also began working on a criminal justice degree. After suffering several injuries, the 13-year veteran was medically discharged in 2014. Interested in finishing his degree Mitch enrolled at YVCC. However, he quickly learned that due to the nature of his injuries, he would be unable to serve in law enforcement. Mitch decided to change his major and focus his efforts on counseling veterans. “There is a serious lack of counselors for my generation of veterans. Most are from the Vietnam War, and their experiences don’t match the needs of today’s veterans,” he stated. “I want to help individuals get past the trauma and nightmares. Most of the guys we see today are young and don’t want to admit that they are broken. I’d like to help them,” he continued. Mitch is currently working for the Yakima County Veterans Program. He will graduate in August and begin taking classes at Central Washington University in the fall.
Meghan Woods Meghan Woods grew up in Yakima and attended West Valley School District. As a high school junior, she decided to enroll in YVCC’s Running Start Program. “I really like the variety of classes that are offered,” stated Woods. “YVCC helped me learn about my strengths and the fields that I do well in. It has been a really great opportunity. I would recommend the program to anyone who is self-motivated,” she concluded. This spring Woods was honored by YVCC history faculty Dr. Ken Zontek, Dr. Tim Jeske, and Monty Walker with the 2014-2015 Herodotus – Gedosch Award. The award recognizes exceptional history students. She graduated in June with her high school diploma and associate of arts degree. In the fall she will transfer to Western Washington University and pursue a double major in linguistics and humanities with a concentration in religious and cultural studies. Woods hopes to later attend law school at the University of Chicago and work as a civil rights law, immigration, and labor law attorney.
Anthony Harding Anthony Harding began working in the construction industry at the age of 14. Over the next several years he worked in a variety of skilled labor jobs including HVAC, plumping, warehouse, restaurant, and sales. After suffering major injuries in a motorcycle accident, he decided he wanted to pursue other career options. Harding enrolled at YVCC and received help through the Basic Food, Employment and Training (BFE&T) Program. BFE&T provides services to Basic Food (Food Stamp) recipients in Washington State. Services may include establishing or maintaining eligibility for Basic Food while in school, child care subsidy, job search training and other support services. The program allowed Harding to focus on school without worrying so much about financial obligations. “I didn’t think I would be able to do it,” stated Harding. “YVCC has some of the best instructors ever. Instructors like Patti Koluda, Susan Klaus, Marlene Cousens, and Holly Cousens encouraged me to continue. Overall, YVCC has helped me mature and become a better person,” he concluded. Harding graduated in June with a general office assistant certificate. He hopes to work in shipping and receiving and continue his education.
SCHOLARSHIPS
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From left; Students receive scholarship awards at the annual YVCC Foundation Scholarship Ceremony. Right; Tiffany Dickens, YVCC Vice President Scholarship
YVCC Foundation The YVCC Foundation has a long-standing tradition of providing financial support to YVCC students. Since its inception in 1977, the Foundation’s endowment has grown exponentially, starting with $140,000, it now totals over $11 million. In its 38 year history the Foundation has awarded more than 5,000 scholarships to students, totaling more than $3.8 million. With more than 135 donors who have established endowed funds, the primary mission of Board of Directors is to provide scholarships to students. Each year directors volunteer countless hours reviewing applications. Scholarships for the 2015-2016 academic year, totaling more than $455,000, were presented to 190 students at the annual award ceremony in June. One of the scholarships awarded by the Foundation is the Vice President Scholarship. This year’s recipient was Tiffany Dickens. Dickens graduated from Eisenhower High School with a 3.9GPA and from YV-TECH’s Nursing Assistant Program. She has earned several honors during her high school career including Washington Scholar, College Success Foundation Scholar, Masonic Junior Achievement Award, Outstanding Achievement Award, Outstanding Student, Student of the Year in Career and Technical Education, Student of the Year in International Languages and Math, and Student of the Month in International Languages. She will begin at YVCC in the fall and plans to pursue an associate of applied science degree in nursing. For more information visit: www.yvcc.edu/foundation
Washington Wine Industry Foundation Scholarships
Lindsay Boutillier, a YVCC vineyard and winery technology student, along with Braden Mortensen, a YVCC alumni and current Central Washington University (CWU) student received both a Foundation Fund Scholarship and a Horse Heaven Hills Wine Growers Scholarship. The scholarships were presented by the Washington Wine Industry Foundation. Boutillier is in her second year at YVCC and is studying vineyard technology. Mortensen received a dual degree in vineyard technology and winery technology from YVCC. He is enrolled in CWU’s Global Wine Studies Program and currently works at Two Mountain Winery in Zillah, Washington.
Rotary Club of Yakima This spring the Rotary Club of Yakima awarded three sets of scholarships to local students pursuing degrees during the 2015-2016 academic year. Several of those students will be attending YVCC in the fall. Vocational scholarships were received by the following students: Terra Barry, Matthew Feltrup, Erica Hutt, Hannah Maib-Robinson, Colton Peyser, Max Sanchez, Everett Scaife, Donna Schaneman, Ashley Sloan, Madison Whitlock, and Evan Wolfe. An academic scholarship was awarded to student Courtney Berger. Mary Monroe Davis scholarships were awarded to students Vanessa Larios and Hector Pena.
Heritage’s SOAR Scholarship Four YVCC Running Start students were recently awarded Heritage University SOAR Scholarships. The SOAR Scholarship provides full tuition payment plus lab fees for up to five years of study toward the obtainment of a bachelor’s degree. YVCC recipients include: Kaneeta Jeffrey-Zack, Idalis Licea, Cynthia Vargas, and Valentin Zaragosa.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Grape to Glass Gala
Chemistry Club Outreach
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Black Box Poetry Slam
Grape to Glass Gala
This May YVCC’s Vineyard and Winery Technology Program hosted the annual Grape to Glass Gala. The event, now in its 9th year, benefits student scholarships. The winemaker’s dinner included a four-course meal paired with wines from YVCC’s own Yakima Valley Vintners, wine tasting, silent auction, live music by Wayman Chapman, and dancing. The event also featured Washington wineries who employ YVCC graduates. The event raised over $6,500 for student scholarships.
Chemistry Club Outreach with Naches Valley High School
YVCC’s Chemistry Club recently partnered with Naches Valley High School (NVHS) to offer students the opportunity to learn about chemistry and the college. “The purpose of this event was to encourage NVHS students to consider college and to get them to realize that college isn’t all that scary,” stated YVCC Chemistry Instructor Dr. Tanya Knickerbocker. The event included chemistry demonstrations that were both fun and educational. Students had the opportunity to experience hands-on experiments such as the cabbage indicator with Milk of Magnesia and vinegar, the flaming gummy bear, elephant toothpaste, smoke bombs, flash powder, hydrogen balloons, and more. For each activity YVCC instructors and students discussed both the chemical concepts and the math behind each demonstration. “The event was a success and allowed YVCC students the chance to showcase what they know as well as further their interest in science, a core mission of the chemistry club,” she concluded.
Black Box Poetry Slam
On April 23 YVCC’s Black Box Poetry Slam returned with a twist. For the first time YVCC and Heritage University partnered on the event. Winners from Heritage’s Slam were able to jump over the preliminary round into the semi-finals. “We wanted to reach out to other parts of greater Yakima, so it seemed natural to partner with Heritage,” stated YVCC English Instructor and longtime host and organizer Mark Fuzie. “Some people think Slam poetry is all about anger and activism, but that hasn’t been the case in Yakima. All kinds of people show up to the event with different styles of spoken word art, hip-hop, free-form, storytelling, and improve,” he concluded. YVCC’s own Johnny Schofield came from behind to win the event. Runners up were Randie Gottlieb and Danette Bremer.
Dental Hygiene Service Learning
On May 2 YVCC’s Dental Hygiene Program participated in the Day of Hope hosted by Stone Church of Yakima. The event provided free dental exams, digital radiographs, and patient education for under-served valley residents. Students, instructors, and dentists all donated their time for this event. “The Day of Hope outreach was an amazing experience and I was very glad to be a part of it,” stated YVCC Dental Hygiene Student Samantha Spencer. “I think it is incredibly important for students to give back to the community. The patients we saw that day were so thankful. It was very humbling,” she concluded. In addition Dental Hygiene students also had the opportunity to showcase their work at the Dental Hygiene Association Symposium on April 25. The students presented information on new popular trends and initial research outcomes in dentistry, specifically oil pulling and chewing gum for improved oral health.
Civic Engagement Conference
YVCC’s Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán (MEChA) student club and the Commission on Hispanic Affairs partnered this spring to hold a Civic Engagement Conference on the Yakima Campus. The conference aimed to build tools for civic engagement and featured Washington State Representative Bruce Chandler and Washington State Supreme Court Justice Steven González as guest speakers. The event also featured a series of skill building workshops hosted by local nonprofits, school administrators, and government agencies. Topics included education involvement, voting, citizenship, immigration, the environment, and public safety.
LARSON GALLERY
12 YAKIMA, TIERRA SAGRADA
“Yakima, Tierra Sagrada”
Latin Music Celebration Mural On April 30th the Larson Gallery hosted artist José Luis Soto from Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico. He presented a lecture on the history and evolution of murals in Latin America. The following day he began working on a collaborative art project with Art Instructor John Bissonette, YVCC students, and members of the community. Soto began by gathering the participants and leading a discussion on what Yakima meant to them. Based on these ideas Soto wrote a poem titled Yakima, Tierra Sagrada. From there he led the participants in the creation of a mural by painting imagery from the poem onto a canvas 7 feet tall by 15 feet wide. The mural was completed on May 4th as part of the Latin Music Celebration. That evening, during the Grand Finale Concert at the Capital Theatre, the poem was set to music. Photographs of the mural being painted rotated on the screen next to the musicians. Yakima, Tierra Sagrada is now part of the Larson Gallery Guild’s permanent collection and will be installed at YVCC’s Grandview Campus. Soto’s visit was made possible by the Title V Cooperative Grant in conjunction with Heritage University.
Yakima es un lugar de contrastes, Es un lugar pequeño, de calor y de frío De orgullo y pertenencia De alegría, Rodeado del verde de la naturaleza, Un valle rodeado de montañas sagradas, Lugar para familias Que representan diferentes culturas, De agrigultores y de campesinos… Yakima es hogar, Es familia, Es de una belleza sencilla Y sin igual, Es divertida, Ciudad hermana De Morelia señorial ••• Yakima is a place of contrasts A small place, of hot and cold, Proud and with ownership A Happy Place Surrounded by the green of nature A valley of sacred hills A place for families Of agriculture and farm workers, Yakima is home Is family Is simple beauty Is fun Sister city Of lordly Morelia
Department of Visual Arts This spring the Larson Gallery hosted the YVCC Department of Visual Arts (DoVA) exhibit. A fixture in the gallery for over 40 years, the exhibit showcases the current work of YVCC students and faculty. Student artwork from spring, summer, fall 2014 and winter 2015 was selected by instructors. The gallery then made the final selection for the show which contained over 130 pieces of work. Drawing, painting, art appreciation, clay, design, metalsmithing, and digital photography classes were all represented. “The Larson Gallery provides students with a professional venue in which to display their work, and an opportunity for the public to view the current efforts of YVCC students,” stated Larson Gallery Director David Lynx. “The result of this selection process is an exhibit that demonstrates quality, craftsmanship, expression, and creativity of the students over the past year,” he continued. Student Mathew Lux’s Sky’s the Limit was awarded the Best of Show. Several other awards were presented including $1,200 in cash and gift certificates. “Portrait” by Art Instructor John Bissonette
ATHLETICS
YVCC Softball
The Yaks Softball Team played each game with heart and determination but unfortunately could not secure enough wins to move to post season play. “The team faced the challenge of playing without the pitchers needed to be a competitive in the Eastern Region,” stated Head Coach Chuck Bodeen. “These young ladies will be successful in their lives, beyond college softball. They have the skills to work together, take on challenges, set goals, and never quit,” he stated. Several individual were recognized for their hard work this season. Bethany Anderson received Most Valuable Player, Kayla Hoke and Andrea Miller earned the Hustle Award, Daphne Fisher was named Most Inspirational Player, and Karissa Ihrig was given Most Improved Player. Selected by Bodeen and Assistant Coach Scott Kokenge this season’s Coach’s Award recognized players Emily Reeves and Shelby Wilkey.
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YVCC Baseball
The Baseball Team had the potential of a strong season but the Yaks gave up 10 single-run losses and finished one spot away from post season play. “What was so frustrating was that so many of those losses were walk-offs. We would be leading going into the final inning only to have our opponents find a way to win in the final at-bat,” stated Greg Oldham, assistant athletic director and head women’s basketball coach. Rising above these challenges the players continued to showcase their talents. Jake Roberts, Darrion Simons, and Alec Chaney were named to the All-NWAC Second Team. Alex Smith was named to the NWAC Gold Glove Team. East Region honors included Roberts, Simons, and Chaney being named to the All-East Region First Team, while Connor Anderson and Chris Petrosie were selected to the Second Team. Smith and Anderson were named to the East Region Gold Glove Team.
Inspirational Award Given to Big Bend Student-Athlete In a break from tradition YVCC Women’s Basketball Team has given its Most Valuable Player award, named in honor of YVCC’s Hannah Cordova, to Big Bend Community College’s Elizabeth Larrew. On March 21, 2014 Larrew was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. In May she started a course of chemotherapy that lasted into November – a treatment every two weeks. Larrew would have treatment and for a week would have difficulty performing the usual tasks of a college student-athlete. During the second week she would be almost back to her normal self. Then she would have another dose of chemo and start the rollercoaster once again. After the chemotherapy was complete, she started radiation therapy which lasted nearly the entire 2014-2015 season. During that time Larrew missed only two team activities and never asked for any special consideration. “My team leaders were moved by Liz’s determination, grit, love of the game, and love of her teammates,” stated Assistant Athletic Director and Head Women’s Basketball Coach Greg Oldham. “Once we knew the whole story, there was no doubt that Elizabeth Larrew was the player most deserving of Hannah’s award,” he concluded. On March 5, 2015 Larrew was declared cancer-free.
Greg Oldham, assistant athletic director and head women’s basketball coach presents Big Bend Community College’s Elizabeth Larrew with YVCC’s Most Inspirational Player Award.
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PEOPLE
Congratulations to Library and Archives Paraprofessional II Helen Valderhaug. She is the award recipient of the Winter 2015 Classified Employee of the Quarter. Valderhaug works in the Library and Media Services Department.
Salomé Yates
Congratulations to Instructional and Classroom Support Technician Delia Castaneda on her award as the Spring 2015 Classified Employee of the Quarter. Castaneda works for the Basic Skills Division on the Grandview Campus.
Darrion Simons
Athletes of the Year
Each year coaches representing all of the YVCC athletic programs vote on the athlete of the year awards. The awards honor student-athletes who have excelled both in the classroom and in their respective sport. This year the Female Athlete of the Year Award was given to soccer player Salomé Yates. Yates scored eight goals and had four assists for the Yaks, making her one of the best offensive midfielders in the NWAC East Region. She was selected to play in the NWAC All-Star game and contributed one goal and two assists in the decisive 5-1 victory. Yates also played basketball for the Yaks this season. She is on track to complete her associate of arts degree this summer and plans to attend Central Washington University in the fall. The Male Athlete of the Year Award recipient is baseball pitcher and centerfielder Darrion Simons. He threw in 10 games for a total of 60 innings, producing a record of 5-1 with a 0.75 ERA. He was selected to the All-East Region Team as a pitcher and also was named Second Team All-NWAC. Simons will pitch for the Yakima Pippins this summer. He is considering numerous offers from around the country to continue his collegiate pitching career.
Helen Valderhaug
Delia Castaneda
The Associated Students of YVCC recognized several individuals at this year’s spring recognition event. Awards include: Greg Kent, Teacher of the Year & Advisor of the Year; Roxanne Baca, Classified Staff of the Year; Jessica Vigil, Exempt Staff of the Year; Edwin Andrade, Student of the Year; and MEChA, Club of the Year. The Grandview Student Council also presented awards to Maricruz Mendoza, Staff of the Year; Brian Patterson and Steven Mock, Faculty of the Year; and Mario Aguilar, Student of the Year.
Best wishes to YVCC’s recent retirees including: Barbara Bartz, nursing instructor; Barbara Cook, administrative assistant to the vice president administrative services; Linda Dalton, office assistant III in the student residence center; Pamela Ferguson, basic skills instructor; Donna Fulton, program assistant in dental hygiene; Cherilynn Grabenhorst, office assistant III in enrollment services; Chris Ivy, allied health instructor; Jim McCormick, speech instructor; Duane Reed, English instructor; Sharon Redifer, coordinator of special funding; Debra Selam, basic skills instructor; and Suzy West, executive assistant to the president. This spring YVCC employees were saddened by the loss of instructors John Fairbrook and Pete Orgill. Fairbook was hired in 1946 to develop the curriculum for YVCC’s Engineering Department. He taught civil engineering courses for most of the years between 1946-2013, taking short breaks to return to work in the industry. Fairbrook was one of YVCC’s longest standing instructors, teaching either full- or part-time for more than 60 years. Orgill was an alum of YVCC and also played baseball for the college. He was a passionate educator and coach throughout his career at local schools. He also taught astronomy at YVCC part-time from 1995 to 2015. Congratulations to Yakima Valley Vintners on their most recent honors at the Seattle Wine Awards. Awards include: Double Gold for 2014 Textbook White Gewurztraminer and 2012 Dean’s List Primitivo, and Gold for 2012 Graduates Last Hurrah Syrah and 2012 Final Exam Cabernet Franc.
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EXCITING NEW DEGREE OPPORTUNITY!
BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE Information Technology Networking - System Administration
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