YAKIMA VALLEY COLLEGE Campus Update, Spring 2017
Board of Trustees Patrick Baldoz Sara Cate, M.D. Rosalinda Mendoza Robert Ozuna Patricia Whitefoot Produced by: Jay Frank Stefanie Menard Contributing Photographers: Jay Frank Justin Hawkes Ruben Martinez Stefanie Menard Contributing Writers: Jay Frank Stefanie Menard Published: July 2017 If you would like to be added or removed from our mailing list, please contact us: Yakima Valley College Community Relations PO Box 22520 Yakima, WA 98907-2520 communityrelations@yvcc.edu 509.574.4646 Connect with Us! Facebook
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Letter from the President Spring is traditionally the season of long awaited warmer weather, new growth, and new beginnings. This was certainly evident at Yakima Valley College. Along with the much improved weather and the beautiful spring foliage, we celebrated the long awaited completion of the new North Campus Commons adjacent to the clock tower. The commons includes a pergola designed to resemble the former Palmer Hall that once occupied the site. The new walkways, benches and grassy areas were immediately occupied by students between classes and some classes even moved outdoors. Also new during Spring quarter was the installation of signage on the Yakima Campus which has the recently adopted name of the college and directory signs at main entrances that display a map of the campus. The Grandview Campus will also receive new signage as part of the Wine Country Road entrance project which will be completed by this fall. Finally, due to a revision to the college calendar, Commencement was delayed by one week. The new date provided an opportunity to celebrate commencement in the SunDome for the first time in the 88-year history of the college. It was a truly memorable event as we recognized our students’ achievements with 1,303 degrees and certificates; including 932 associate degree graduates, 163 Running Start students who also earned their high school diplomas concurrently with their associate degree, 66 graduates who earned bachelor’s degrees, and 290 students who earned vocational certificates. We also had an unprecedented number of family and friends attend the ceremony as they filled the 6,000 seats. You will read about these events and other accomplishments of our faculty, staff and students in this issue of Campus Update. As always, your ongoing support of and commitment to our students is critical to their continued success and greatly appreciated. Sincerely,
Linda Kaminski, Ed.D. President
Contents 3 4 5 9 11 14 15 17 18
Commencement Graduate Highlights 2016-17 Graduate List Commencement Awards Campus News Scholarships Student Activities Athletics YVC’s People
Cover Photo: Graduate Tiffany Dhooghe hugs Dental Hygiene Instructor Deborah Gould after receiving her diploma at YVC’s 88th Commencement Ceremony on June 15th.
COMMENCEMENT
This June Yakima Valley College celebrated its 88th Commencement Ceremony. This year’s celebration marked a change, as this year’s ceremony was held at Yakima Valley SunDome. The new venue provided additional guest seating, helping to fulfill the college’s mission of providing access to the community and allowing more family and friends to join in celebrating the incredible work of YVC’s graduates. The class of 2017 earned a total of 1,303 degrees and certificates. This year’s graduating class included the first bachelor of applied science in information technology and graduates from the first bachelor of applied science in dental hygiene class. Graduates also earned professional technical degrees, transfer degrees and certificates. These graduates are now prepared to enter the workforce in their respective fields or transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree. The graduates were addressed by keynote speaker Charles Ross. An alumnus of YVC, he earned his associate in arts degree and later an associate in arts degree in funeral director/mortuary science from Mount Hood Community College. Ross is a licensed funeral director who worked in the field for 18 years before being elected to the office of Yakima County Auditor in 2014. In addition, he served as a State Representative from 2007-2014. This year’s student commencement speaker was Danielle Niemann. A Running Start student, she has completed her associate in arts degree and received her high school diploma. Following YVC she plans to take some online courses in communication and philosophy while working to save money for her education. Niemann plans to transfer to Hillsong College in Sydney, Australia where she will pursue a degree in worship ministry. In addition to the annual commencement ceremony, completion ceremonies are held throughout the academic year for students who have completed coursework in the Basic Skills Division. These students earn their high school diploma or GED, or are taking English courses while building workplace skills. A recent celebration was held at the Toppenish Learning Center. The ceremony recognized more than 20 graduates. 3 Yakima Valley College
Class of 2017 1,303 Degrees & Certificates 66 Bachelor’s Degrees 192 Attended Grandview Campus 17 to 67 Age Range of Graduates 163 Running Start Students 311 Graduating with Honors 19 Veterans
GRADUATE HIGHLIGHTS
Kaito Durkee As a high school junior, Kaito Durkee decided to enroll in YVC’s Running Start Program. “My favorite parts of the program are the wide variety of classes and relative flexibility in choosing which classes to take. In addition, the YVC faculty offers a much more broad and vivid view of the world for students to experience,” he stated. Outside the classroom Durkee worked as a tutor. He played jazz guitar for the Davis High School Jazz Band and percussion for the Wind Ensemble, and plays timpani for the Yakima Youth Symphony Orchestra. Durkee graduated this June with his high school diploma and associate in arts degree. He plans to transfer to the University of Washington and pursue a degree in aeronautics and astronautics.
Luz Herrera After earning a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer studies, Luz Herrera spent seven years working as a dental assistant. Wanting to expand her knowledge, she decided to enroll at YVC to pursue a degree in dental hygiene. Herrera was able to overcome personal challenges and still succeed in a rigorous program. “YVC’s program has been really hard. When I was doing research into other programs I felt like some programs only covered what’s required for the test. YVC’s program covers everything I’ll need to know to be successful and has really helped me prepare for my career,” she stated. Herrera graduated this June with a bachelor of applied science in dental hygiene. She plans to work as a dental hygienist and provide outreach to the community.
Yoni Rodriguez After graduating from high school Yoni Rodriguez attended Eastern Washington University. Struggling and unsure on a course of study to pursue, Rodriguez decided to take a break from his education. After working for two years and with the encouragement of family, he decided to enroll at YVC in the fall of 2014. Rodriguez has been very involved in campus life as a member of the Pre-Med Club, Chemistry Club, STEM Club, and MESA program. In addition, for the past three summers he participated in YVC’s undergraduate research projects. He plans to transfer to Washington State University (WSU) in the fall and study biochemistry. This summer he will work on a Research Experience for Undergraduates project through WSU.
Franki Cioci After graduating from high school, Franki Cioci traveled the world. She later moved to the Seattle area with her infant son and spent the next few years working in property management. In 2014 she decided to return to the Yakima Valley to be near family. After struggling to find quality childcare, Franki decided to return to school and enrolled at YVC pursuing a degree in early childhood education. She has been very involved on campus as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, a member of the Writing Club, and as a member of Playmasters. She is also member of the community theatre group Stage Artists of Yakima. Outside the classroom she works part-time in YVC’s Print Shop. In the fall she plans to transfer to Humboldt State University where she will pursue a bachelor’s degree in theatre with a minor in early childhood education. Spring 2017 4
2016-2017 GRADUATE LIST BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREES
Maria Teresa Amador Nathan Arrigoni Elizabeth Arroyo Elva Benitez Lindsay Boutillier Philip Bristow Kassidy Lee Brown Lisa Brown Savanah Justine Burton Stephanie Burton Wendy Cates Molly Rose Colyer Tiffani Jean Dhooghe Rebecca Donaldson Alejandra Dorantes Maria Del Carmen Esquivel Julie Gabriel Frances Gold Amber K. Grimmett Shelby Rae Grubenhoff Noelle Lois Guldjord Nathan Haile Amanda Hamlin Kurt D. Hansen Kelly Heerspink Lindsay Heneghen Luz Maria Herrera Crystal E. Izaguirre Liana May Jelinski Stephanie A. Joice Brittany D. Jones Amanda Paige Juarez Hope Lange Megan Louise La Roche Aundria Love Priscilla Magana Hailee Arada McAllister Michelle Mears Jessica Jolene Mills Stephanie Morales Kelsie LeeAnn Nugent Sharayah Ott Tonia Patnode Joel Pulido Natali Ramirez Jennifer R. Ramos Sharon Reyna Jessica Saunders Yelena S. Sirotinskaya Kalene Elizabeth Smith Jamie Wayne Treat Holly E. Tull Jana L. Richardson Jannet Valencia Rodriguez Octavia Juliet Vargas Joshua Verwey Nolan Anton Wentz Dena Marie Wilhelm Susan Wood Misty Wragge Terah Yeager Lyndee York Aneida Lisette Zamora Lua Teresa D. Zuniga 5 Yakima Valley College
ASSOCIATE DEGREES Hamzah G. Abdelrahman Sanad Ghassan Abdelrahma Basmeh Kali Rae Abrams Saray Aburto Talavera Abel R. Acevedo Humberto Acevedo Luanna S. Acevedo Daniel Tristen Acob Chester William Adams Jr. Elizabeth Aguilera Danielle H. Akins Kristina Elexandria Alcaraz Veronica Alcaraz Sandoval Jasmine Leonor Aldaco Omar Alegria-Soto Ashley Anne Alexander Alexandrea M. Allen Timothy D. Allen Dunia Bassam Alsarama Mohammud Bassam Alsarama Ashley Altomare Erika Alvarez Isabel Alvarez Katrina Alvarez Leydi Laura Alvarez Margarita Alvarez Yadira Alvizo Bettina Lisa Alvord Ericlee R. Amaro Kayla Amber Aparicio Amaro José A. Anaya Gabe Anderson Shiloe Anderson Thomas Anderson Claudia Andrade Shane J. Andreas Katelyn Andrews Maksym Anokhin Cruz Y. Aragon Isabel V. Arambul Alyssa Gayle Armbruster Melissa A. Armendariz Franciska Dawn Arredondo Magali Arroyo-Gomora Ramon Ascencio Krystal Ash Liliia Ashton Austin Au Addison Austin Esmeralda Aviles Esperanza Avilés Emma R. Avalos Richard N. Avalos Maria De Jesus Ayala Josh Aznaran Yesenia Badillo Yaneli Bahena Brandy Chilcote Bailey Patricia Baker Wesley Blaine Baker Carmel Balcom Javiola Baldovinos Jennifer Esoy Barajas Lorena Barajas
Elizabeth Barber Jorge Jr. Barbosa Jose Martel Barocio Brenda L. Barragan Crystal Barragan Miguel Barrios Jacob D. Barstow Lupe V. Bazan Pennie M. Beason Bonnie Beebe Casey Ellis Beksinski Steven B. Bendall Dohwan Bensch Estrella Bernal Alexis Berndt-Davis Katelyn Nicole Berns Abagail A. Bersing Gerardo Berumen Felicity R. Bewick Manuel Birrueta Wendy Kaye Blowers-Burns Kelly E. Bolt Natalie Borchert Amanda Marie Bravo Beverly J. Brockway Ivan Bueno Gomez Elizabeth Buslon Barbara J. Bunker Linda Burgin Danielle Burkett Kraig Kenneth Burlingame Jerry Jacob Byers Jasmine Caballero Joshua Cabrales Ruben Calvario Brysa Camfield Madison Bridget Campbell Sage J. Campbell Litzuli Campuzano Kennedy Dawn Cannon Celeste Cantu Terrell Cantu Nicole Eillen Capalungan Savannah Rose Lillian Capener Lupita E. Cardenas V. Sandra E. Cardenas Victoria Cardenas Brigham L. Cardon Lauren Margaret Carey Austin Carl Samual Carman Sayani Carmona Silva Matthew Carpenter Alexis Carrasco Linda N. Carrillo-Espinosa Tamara L. Carroll Lindsay R. Carson Amaris Carter Saúl Castañeda Robledo Jeremy Lucas Castillo Melida H. Castillo Ariana Castro Miriam Castro Stephanie Castro Molly Marie Cavanaugh Jorge L. Ceballos
Janet Cerda Jennifer Cervantes Rosa Elena Cervantes Adrian Chacon Jessica Charles Juan Jose Chavarin Brenda Chavez Erick Sparky Chavez Jade Marie Chavez Nanci Yomira Chavez Norma L. Chavez Cameron Chin Anthony Chisholm Bryan Todd Chronister Frances E. Cioci Veronica Cisneros Anders Delt Clark Breanna L. Clark Katheryn Juliene Clark Kendra Raye Ann Cleaver Quinton Richard Cline Andrea Jean Cochran Cassandra Coltrane Mikayla Combs Angila Conatser Monique Conner Micaella Marina Contreras Sandra Contreras Elizabeth Contreras-Loreto Rosemerry Kathleen Corbin Diane C. Coronado Alfonso Cortez Almarosa Cortez Danielle Marie Couette Amber Ann Couture Daniela Covarrubias Amanda Kay Cramer Torri Creasy Joyce Cree Abigail Mae Cromwell Shane Crowell Abigail Cruikshank Daisy Cruz Gladys M. Cruz Jose Aureliano Cruz Veronica Cruz Zane P. Cruz Makia K. Cruz-Althauser Ximena M. Cuevas Arias Tara Culps-Bremer Donald Adam Darnell Rachael Dart Trechell L. Davidson Brendan Colby Davis Hazel Dekoker Elvia Vanesa Delgadillo Figueroa Andres Delgado Fatima Delgado Emma Ruby DeLong Matthew Denchel Kyle Denner Itzel Diaz Maria Isabel Diaz Maximiliano Diaz Alyssa Gayle Dickens
Kaileigh Dietrich-Denton Joseph DiNicolantonio Hannah Marie Ditter Chestina Dominguez Sadie Magnolia Dominguez Savanna Akira Dayspring Douglas Isaac Dowd Casey Dunbar Alexander M. Durand McKenzie Danielle Durand Emma Durbin Kaito Jonathan Durkee Leilani M. Edgar Kaitlin Elmo Kylie Ergeson Linda Ericcsen Andrew Jay Escalante Sergio Escalera-Lopez Delila T. Escamilla Rhapsodi Brianne Escobar Rory Esparza Jensen Antonio Espinoza Cameron Espinoza Cindy Jasmine Espinoza Jocelyne Janeth Espinoza Maria G. Espinoza Solis Daisy Alexandra Esquivel Alec Leon Estes Aidan Robert Fallstrom Robert W. Faulk Rebecca Brianne Faulkner Nicolas E. Feist Roger M. Fiander Jr. Carly Olivia Figueroa Mary Lou Filicetti Jenny R. Findsen Kevyn Michael Howard Fiscus Kelsee Rae Fitzsimmons Melissa Aileen Fleck Amy Michelle Fletcher Dakota Dean Fletcher Mason J. Flieger Stephanie Flores Darlene R. Fogler Jason Bryon Ford Jr. Emily Fortier Karla Kay Fox Raymond Kenneth Frentz Samantha Jolynn Froehlich Whitney Fuller Betsie Ashley Gabino Martha E. Galicia Veronica Gámez Wendy Sabrina Gamez Abel Garcia Jr. Anakaren Garcia Arcelia Fabiola Garcia Brenda Liliana Garcia Daniel A. Garcia Gloria Garcia Leticia Garcia Luis Garcia Marcela Garcia Maria Guadalupe Garcia Almazan Maria I. Garcia Mariana K. Garcia
Pascual Garcia Sierra S. Garcia Michele Garza Evan Garfein Kevin H. Garrett Selma Gary Enedeo Garza Ramirez III Fernando Ortega Garza Abigahil Garzon Steven W. Gasseling Kaitlyn Gatchel Barbara Gefroh Melissa Marie Gentry Victoria T. George Sara Nicole Geraldon Sarah D. Geuin Allie Giddings Matthew Gifford Kalon L. Gigstead Bryn Alexandra Glassgow Madison Jayne Glassgow Axicalli Godines Henry Godoy Coraima Lili Gomez Aguedita Gonzales Alvaro Gonzales Sarissa Dawn Gonzales Carina Gonzalez Daniella Gonzalez Jaime Gonzalez Jennifer Gonzalez Jocelyn D. Gonzalez Jodi M. Gonzalez Miguel Angel Gonzalez Nubia Biridiana Gonzalez Erika Goodall Kerista Lynn Goodpaster Cecilia C. Gordner Keely Gorski Ashley M. Gosnell Mason Gosney McKenzie K. Graf Brooke H. Graff Lacey Michelle Groenig Sonia Guadarrama Alejandro Guerrero Rebecca Guerrero Rene A. Guevara Lopez Ayisha Kaitlyn Guillen Andrea Guisinger Brin Lyndsey Gurney Jesus Gurrola Aurora F. Gutierrez Roel Benjamin Gutierrez Briana Gutierrez Daniela Gutierrez Deanna Gutierrez Valentina Yazmine Guy Francisco Cruz Guzman Hannah M. Hagemeier Madison Hager Erik Robert Halvorson Eva-Marie Hamill Joel A. Hanson Dario Haquet Denise Haro
Sara Coralyn Harper KaMara-Laura Harrington Bailey Hart Sarah E. Harvill Ashley Hatfield Jaritt Hays Janet N. Hede Jamie Hegge Darin Jay Heine Haley Hellem Chloe Hernandez Jose Hernandez Julio Hernandez Cesar Linda C. Hernandez Maria D. Hernandez Patricia Hernandez Jimenez Santiago Hernandez Daisy Hernandez-Hurtado Claudia Herrera Luis M. Herrera Stephanie Herrera Jaquelinne Herrera-Bravo Kelsie Raschel Herrington Tesheena R. Hert Caroline Herting Kayla Michelle Higgins Callixte Hirwa Mekenzie Hitchcock Savanna Hoffard Cheryl M. Hoffee Erin Sue Holloway Kathryn Holman Ashly Julie Noelle Holve Everette A. Howe Sr. Abbey J. Howell Candle Humrickhouse Damon Jaeger Hurst Challea Huth Erica Marie Hutt Thu Huynh Carrie J. Hyatt Moriah Immel Diana Judith Jacinto Sarah Jean Jackson Garret Allen Jacob Graciela Jaime Cody E. James Rachel Lea Jennerjohn Nathan Jensen Deidra Rose Red Elk Jerome Samantha Louise Jetton David Jimenez Wendy Jimenez-Guzman Edwin Elias Joaquin Mary E. Johns Chelsea M. Johnson Lindsay Christine Jones Marcus Taylor Jones Mariah Karin Jones Olivia Ann Jones Cody L. Jordan De’Andre Kambala Anmolprett Kaur Jillian G. Keane Elizabeth Chichiwiri Keke Grace Mishael Keller
Heather May Kelley Bryce Kelly Rhonda Jeanne Klamm Ryan Klise Justin Kloster Jevion Knox Sarah Julia Koffler Katrina Lynne Krainick Julie Kukes Kobe Kupp Donnell Lacey Garrison R. LaMarche Jacob Dakota LaMay Daniella Alicia Landa Marisela Lara Gricelda Larios Kyle Stuart Larsen Nicole Audrey Laughlin Nathaniel Laverman Sara Louise Lawrence Briana Esmeralda Lazaro Angela Lee Erin Leman Melissa Lidorikiotis Rosa M. Limon Alvarado Emily Linder Joseph Lines Sabrina Little Maria Merivet Lombera Caitlin Long Marya Mychael Long Amanda Lopez Edith Lopez Garcia Jalisa A. Lopez Josue Lopez Rachel Lopez Isquierdo Rosalba Lopez Sonia López Ramos Jeanette Lopez-Huerta Patricia Lowrie Laura Angelica Loya Tanya Lugo Robert Anthonie Luna Sarai Luna Kyla Lundberg Francisco Luquin Monroy Matthew T. Lux Elizabeth MacDermid Kierstin Elizabeth Macfarlane Sabrina Elise Macias Armando Maciel Sara Kassandra Maciel Angelita Madrigal Jose J. Madrigal Marlene Magaña Wendy Magaña Paige Michelle Maher Riley William Maier Eliza M. Mancilla Melissa Morgan Manjarrez Adrian I. Maravilla Dante Marin Elisa Mariscal Ana Karen Marquez Diana Marquez Gabriela Marquez Spring 2017 6
2016-2017 GRADUATE LIST ASSOCIATE DEGREES Annelisa Aaliyah Martinez Erik Martinez Robles Iridian Martinez Rudy Martinez Jr. Silvia C. Martinez Adriana Y. Martinez-Gonzalez Sydney Masovero Sarah M. Matheny Autumn McCart Shawn P. McCarthy Jay McDonald Katelyn M. McDowell Taylor R. McElrea Joel D. McGrath Lyn Kathleen McSharry Kenneth Scott Mears Juliana Medina Anguiano Nancy Medina Jaclyn Michelle Meek Maria Mayhan Mejia Marizza Mejia-Cordova Andrew Mellotte Vicente Mena Desirae Cruz Mendez Maria Rubi Mendez Jesus A. Mendoza Jesus R. Mendoza Josue Emmanuel Mendoza Leslie Mendoza Marlene Mendoza Cruz Saida Mendoza Yaricxa Neibe Mendoza Jennifer Menieur-Gonzalez Edith Yolanda Meraz David Mercado Jovita Mercado Sonia L. Merck Joseph W. Meyers Nohemi Meza Irene Milanez Nathan Scott Miller Joseph Frank Mitchell Bianca Molina Allison Monroe Juana Yareni Montelongo Ashley I. Montes Mary Carmen Montes Eloy M. Montiel Brenda Montoya-Roman Jessica A. Morales Maria de Jesus Morales Lopez Wilberto Morales Vargas Ana Isabel Morales Villafan Rossie M. Moran Alessandra Moreno Madeline Jane Morford Kaitlin Morris Kylee Morse Mark Christian Mortensen Maria G. Munguia Sierra Munson Trenton E. Murdock Afefi Musegh Ruth Musser 7 Yakima Valley College
James Michael Nathlich Veronica Anne Navarro Cheyenne Rae Needham Jennifer Negrete Diana Nelson Gunnar Joseph Newell Jill M. Nichols Danielle Grace Niemann Jamie Nogales Eric Nordstrom Lucas Northrup Hannah Wynn Norval Maria Nuñez Joseph Ochoa Tasha Offutt Emily A. Okelberry Dalleri Olels Taylor E. Olney Correy T. Olson Brayden Daniel Oplinger Brandon Ornelas Lorena Ornelas Alicia Antonia Ortega Ramon Ortiz Emery Franklin Osborn Yvette Osegueda Maria D. Osorio Sabrina Ovesen Alexa Jade Packard Esther Packard Jesica Padilla Jimenez Jessica Padilla Vanessa Del Carmen Padilla Noah Christopher Paganelli Juan Pallares Kylie Darlene Palmer Quenton Ramon Palmer David P. Palomarez Toni M. Palomarez Joseph Dean Paradis Jessica A. Parish Cody Parke Zachary Parker Lynn M. Pasche Kirsten Renée Patten Kailee De’Engelle Lueveda Patterson Julissa Peart Denise B. Pelestor Jenifer R. Pelkey John Peña Ethan Pendlebury Yazmin Peregrino Luisa Lorena Perez Mayra A. Perez Raquel Perez Ximena Abigail Perez Madison Petre Andrea Lyssa Pettijohn Colton Jacob Peyser Kay K. Philp Vickie Picardal Sarea Pierce Samantha Pietscher Daisy M. Pimentel Dario Pinon
Eduardo G. Piñon Uriel Piñon Dario Piñon Josephine M. Pleake Laura Lee Potts Angel Preciado Vanessa L. Prusinowski Hunter K. Pryse Carolynn R. Pursley Rita Isabel Quezada Emilie Quenzer Freddy Rabadan Osorio Eloisa Radillo-Buenrostro Brandon Cruz Ramirez Casandra Ramirez Gabriela Ramirez Gerardo Ramirez Jesse Noah Ramirez Annabelle Ramos Christian A. Ramos Laura Ramos Lisette Ramos Melisa Ramos Vanessa M. Ramos Liliana Rangel Janeth Rangel Vazquez Rodolfo Rangel Rosa M. Rangel Charlie A. Ranger Jaron Raymond Colton Eugene Redtfeldt Melissa Reed Brianna Kaylynn Reedy Catherine M. Reese Amber N. Reeves Leticia Reiber Daphne Reilly Andrea Reyes Pantoja Edgar Reyes Keilee Brianna Richmond Olivia Margaret Rickey Kendal S. Ridgeway Rouella Corales Rillo Robert S. Ring Amanda Lynn Ringer Halley Ringer Keisha Shantel Riojas Maria Jose Rios Cayley Elise Rishor-Olney Biviana Rivera Noemi Rivera Sabino Rivera Hector James Roberts III Kayla Renee Robinson Carmen Teresa Rodriguez Cassandra Marie Rodriguez Deisy G. Rodriguez Desmond A. Rodriguez Jessenia Evelia Rodriguez Marecela Rodriguez Maria B. Rodriguez Ricardo Rodriguez Ruben Rodriguez-Muniz Yoni Rodriguez Amanda May Rogers Katherine Elizabeth Rojas
Maria Rojas Alvares Marivel Rojas Steven Roman Lionel Romero Sylvia Romero Celedina Rosales Jorge A. Rosales Brayan Rosas Alma Aide Rosas-Fernandez Karissa Lynn Ross Associate in Arts, Yakima David Lee Rothenberger Tabitha B. Rowe Dylan Rowley Amelia Melquiades Ruelas Miriam Ruiz Kent A. Rumble John Antonio Rutz Liliana Rutz Malachi S. Ryan Bradley James Rydberg Sarah Rytter Rosa Maria Saldaña Rudy Salgado Katrina L. Salset Kaylene L. Sampson J’len Sanborn Araceli Sanchez Chelsea Rae Sanchez Dafne A. Sanchez Flor Neydin Sanchez Madison Sanchez Oscar Sanchez Isaiah C. Sanford Samantha Rennee Santos Daniela Saucedo Ceja Amber M. Savala Michael R. Schafer Sommer Joy Scheidegger Joshua Desmond Schempp Daniel Scherschligt Jordan Marie Schilperoort Peter Gerrit Schilperoort Terry Schlosser Oliver Ray Sebren Carlie Shuel Dirce Noel Schuler Cassandra L. Schultz Alison P. Schwab Rebekah Annette Scott Belen Sedano William Jacob Seefried Karly Beth Serrano Lori L. Serl Elegardo S. Serrano BayLeigh Shaffer Thomas L. Sheffield Dustin Mitchell Shepherd-Hopis Karsten Sherman Jody Marie Shively Carlie Shuel Brenda Silva Cristobal Silva Jorge A. Silva Cortes Jose A. Silva Cortes Sky Lucero Silva
Thailin Silva Flores James Wayne Simmons Jr. Jessica Simmons Christopher E. Simonds Myrna Nancy Simpson Todd Edward Sizemore Delanie Slack Michael G. Slayton Lisa R. Sliger Thomas H. Smedley Catherine J. Smith Christina Smith Dondrea Smith Jr. Ivy Rose Smith Jennifer A. Smith Meagan Smith Aslynn Marie Snyder Hailee M. Snyder Kathryn Ann Sokol Stephen Innocent Sokol Nasario Soliz III Bianca Guadalupe Solorzano Gisel Solorzano Sierra Le Sonderman Diana C. Sosa Lauren Ann Spear Laura Spiry Lindsey Spurbeck Brittney Leann Stephens Shaun P. Stevens Aaron Stone Mykenna Ray Stougard Clayton Stroud Tayler M. Sullivan Jarod A. Swan Paul John Tabayoyon Robert M. Tabayoyon Laurance J. Talkington Benita M. Tapia Hannah Rae Taylor Maria Tellez Marycruz Tellez Villegas Margaret Tenbusch Andrea Terry Akshay Thapar ChanTell Lisa Lynn Thompson Kasie Danelle Thompson Amie E. Thornton Graham Tilley Clinton Edmond Alan Titus Adilene Torres Faviola E. Torres Susana Torres Matthew Elliott Scott Torretta Susan Wylene Tovar Joseph Trapp Lane Traynor Emily Ann Tritz Liliana L. Trujillo Lydia E. Trujillo Jasway Umtuch III Genaro Urbina Jr. Gabriela Valencia Jorge Valencia Norma Liliana Valencia Alma Rosa Valencia-Morfin
Eliazar Valero Guadalupe J. Varela Nancy Vargas Ariana Vasquez Brenda Maleny Vasquez Prisma Vasquez Jasmine L. Vazquez Karolin Kay Veloz Jesus Venegas Graciela Vera James Samuel Vera Yvette K. Vera Elizabeth Verduzco Micah J. Verwey Saul Villa Galvan Alyssa Irene Villanueva-Guillen Maurita Villafan Stephanie Rose Villarruel Patricia Villegas Russell Warren Waddel Whitney B. Wall Sareena Wallace Jesus Walle Priscila Eunice Walle Blaine Walton Andrew M. Ward Kandice Lee Waters Rebecca Waterworth Nathaniel Watrous Nathaniel Way Brandi E. Wedeman Saundra L. Wellner Cassilyn Wheeler Tyler J. White Heather Rochel Whiting Nicole Trygstad Wilcox Shernell Lynn Wilkens Ashley Wilkey Baile Rae Wilkey Shelby Wilkey Jessica M. Willy Cassandra J. Wingerter Angela Wood Taunya Hope Wood Savannah Worley Robert William Wylam Joshua Lee Yarbrough Charlene Yearout Jasmine Yellow Owl Veronica M. York Valerie M. Zabell Miria Zamora Brittany Marie Zampella Jessica Ivette Zamudio Rivera Elyssabeth Nicole Zapata Andres Daniel Zarate Veronica Zavala Miguel Angel Zermeno Magallanes
CERTIFICATES OF ACHIEVEMENT Bertha Acevedo Marissa Aguilar Christina M. Anderson Jennie M. Anderson Jasmine Arizpe Valdez Jessenia Avalos Gavin Allan Bakker Narcisa Barajas Kaly Barthlow Domingo Barrera Catalina Bazaldua Kendal R. Bloom Kimberly Boettcher Jennifer Bon Carissa Ann Bond Maria Bravo Sandra Bravo Kevin Richard Cassidy Maria Castellano Laura Jean Catron Maria Guadalupe Ceja Aurora Chavez Julia Cornejo Martha S. Corona Evelia Covarrubias Annette M. Cruz Dalia Cruz Guadalupe Cruz German Isabel Cueva Adelina Cuevas Kayla Davis Edith Diaz-Peñaloza Chestina S.A. Dominguez Delfina Villalovos Espinoza Maria Espinoza Karla G. Estrada Brendan Pierce Farley Oliva L. Ferguson Lizbeth Flores Carlos Rosa I. Flores Margarita Fonseca Sonia Frias Shannon Marie Fulkerson Avigail Galvan Cheyenne L. Ganuelas Lizette Mayanel Garcia Amalia Gonzalez Ana G. Gonzalez Maldonado Mela Guerrero Jessica P. Hamer Summer Rayne Holden Kiana Hood Daniela Ibarra Amanda L. Kilseimer Misty Knox Agnes Komorowski Nicole Audrey Laughlin Marbella Leyva Anai Luna Elvira Lustre Maria Elena Maradiaga Maricela Marquez Alejandra Martinez
Andrea G. Martinez Julia Martinez Nathalia Medina Maria Del Carmen Mendoza Angelina Meraz Valle Angelica Mercado Samantha Grace Mesman Ivonne Molina Darus Kyle Moore Floriberto Morales Samantha M. Mueller Hnai Musegh Waynna L. Nell Eduardo Ochoa Beatriz Ortiz Deshawn Oursland Kylee A. Patnode Andrea Lyssa Pettijohn Jessica Preciado Maria Ramirez Kassandra A. Randles Brianna K. Reedy Howard E. Rescorla III Yadira Reyes Maria Rivera Salvador Rodriguez Ashley Rojas Doris Rosales Maria Lourdes Ruiz Ashley R. Schillinger Maricela Saldaña Krishauna L. Simpson Jessica Mae Snyder Victoria Soto Amanda Jeanne Stout Mildred Tellez Jesus Tlatelpa Brenda Torres Nelida V. Torres Crystal Ullas Brenda Valencia Mosiah Wilson Cathy Lynn Wood Jennifer Woolsey Aklys B. Yeyé Garcia
Spring 2017 8
COMMENCEMENT AWARDS
Distinguished Alumna Award Maxine Janis
Maxine Janis grew up in the heart of the Lakota (Sioux) homelands on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. She earned an undergraduate degree in dental hygiene from YVC and Eastern Washington University, and a master’s in public health from Portland State University. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree and completing her dissertation with Northern Arizona University. Janis’s dossier comprises expertise in teaching, service, and scholarly work. Her broad career and background spans public health, private practice, and presently higher education. She has worked in health care delivery with the Indian Health Service for 20+ years as a dental practitioner. Janis is currently the President’s Liaison for Native American Affairs and Associate Professor at Heritage University. She is actively working on multiple initiatives related to higher education, health, and the environment as it relates to tribal people and community.
Distinguished Service Award John I. Haas, Inc
®
John I. Haas is being recognized for its significant contributions through the years. As a member of the Barth-Haas Group, the world’s largest supplier of hops, hop products, and services, Haas has consistently given its time, equipment, and valuable expertise to enrich students’ understanding of a vital and exciting local industry. Haas’ donations have allowed the college to conduct research that otherwise would have been impossible. High-value gifts include an Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrophotometry machine and a High Performance Liquid Chromatography machine, both of which support YVC’s course labs and undergraduate research. John I. Haas, Inc. has taken the relationship further, allowing students on-site access to their state-of-the-art lab equipment and access to the experts who operate those machines. The people of Haas have not only given our students remarkable and unique learning experiences, they have given our students inspiration.
Faculty Emeritus Award Robert ‘Bob’ McCutcheon
A long-standing instructor in the arts and sciences division, Robert taught philosophy courses for 32 years before his retirement in 1999. He continues to teach part-time. McCutcheon was born and raised in Boulder, Colorado. Following high school he served his country as a member of the United States Army. He served as a specialist in the Army Security Agency. When his service was over, Bob took advantage of the G.I. Bill and decided to pursue a college degree. He attended San Jose State College in San Jose, California, where he earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in philosophy. After doing some post-graduate work at the University of Washington he was ready to re-enter the workforce. He visited the UW’s career center and learned of an opening at YVC in the philosophy department. He applied and was hired to begin teaching in the fall of 1967. In addition to his teaching duties, Bob spent two years, and approximately thirteen summers working as a commercial fisherman in Alaska. 9 Yakima Valley College
Sherrie & Daryl Parker Faculty Award Shannon Hopkins
Shannon Hopkins teaches English as an instructor in the Arts and Sciences Division. Hopkins was raised in Switzerland and Ireland. Finding the Irish school system difficult, Hopkins did not complete high school. She then spent the next two years training and conditioning horses. Wanting to continue her education, she decided to move to Washington State and attend Tacoma Community College, where she wrote and edited the college newspaper. After transferring to The Evergreen State College, where she received her bachelor’s degree in liberal arts, she worked as a journalist and editor for a weekly newspaper. In 1991 she returned to school and attended Central Washington University. When a full-time position opened up in YVC’s English department, Hopkins applied and was hired to fill the position. She has worked for the college for the past 26 years. Hopkins is being presented with this award for her outstanding commitment to her students.
Robert M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching Award Dr. Heidi Shaw
Dr. Heidi Shaw is an instructor in the Arts and Sciences Division who teaches general and lifespan psychology and research methods for the social sciences department. Shaw attended Central Washington University in order to work with chimpanzees who were learning American Sign Language. She earned bachelor degrees in German and interdisciplinary studies: ethology, followed by a master’s degree in experimental psychology. She went on to complete her PhD in experimental psychology from the University of Nevada, Reno. In 1995 Shaw began teaching at YVC. In addition to her classroom work, Shaw also offers her students the opportunity to conduct scientific research outside of the classroom. Including a project with the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and the Title V Grant to engage student researchers and help analyze the annual fall student survey data and make recommendations to the college.
Darlene Koch Classified Employee of the Year Award Laura Yolo
Laura Yolo is a Program Coordinator for the Upward Bound (UB) Program. She began her educational journey at YVC at the age of 18 pursuing her GED. Although life challenges prevented her from continuing her education, Laura never lost hope that one day she would earn a college degree. In 2009 she returned to YVC and earned an associate in arts degree while being named YVC’s 2011 Student Commencement Speaker. She then transferred to Central Washington University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies. This past December she completed her master’s degree in communications and leadership from Gonzaga University. In her current role, Laura works to help academically prepare low-income, first-generation high school students for college. She coordinates group activities, trips to conferences, and campus tours to help students understand the importance of higher education and the options available to them. She also helps plan UB’s Summer Institute. Spring 2017 10
CAMPUS NEWS
A panoramic view of Yakima’s North Campus showing the North Campus Commons project. A welcome addition, the new courtyard has been well received by students and staff.
North Campus Commons The heart of the Yakima Campus has a more open, inviting feel this summer, thanks to a $1.09 million renovation. The goal was to demolish the old Palmer Hall and create a spacious, attractive, functional open space in North Campus, with a pergola offering a reminder of the exact space Palmer Hall once occupied. The space was designed by BORArchitecture and M. Sevigny Construction served as general contractor. “It’s being well-received, students have already had activities there,” said Director of Facility Operations Jeff Wood. “It gives good pathways between buildings. There’s also a lot of additional seating space with students out there on their personal devices using the campus Wi-Fi,” he continued.
New Signage Adorns the Yakima Campus Keeping with the college’s move to the “Yakima Valley College” name, sleek, modern signage now decorates the most visible corners of the Yakima Campus. The installations are the work of Eagle Signs, a Yakima company, crafted from a design executed by BORArchitecture. The aluminum construction features routed lettering that at night is illuminated from the inside. Additional directory signage has also been installed throughout campus to help visitors locate essential services.
A worker from Eagle Signs installs a monument sign on the corner of S. 16th Ave & Nob Hill Blvd.
Parker Faller Field Bleacher Renovation Any visitor to Parker Faller Field this baseball season immediately noticed a major improvement: brand-new bleachers along both the first and third base lines. “It’s a physical representation of the commitment of the college to athletics,” said Athletic Director Ray Funk. “Safety was a huge factor. The bleachers are no longer open to where someone could potentially fall through. It was time,” he continued. The funding for stadium improvement was made possible in part by a generous donation to the YVC Foundation from the late Daryl Parker and from the Parker Youth & Sports Foundation.
11 Yakima Valley College
YVC’s Parker Faller Field. The new bleachers increase seating capacity to 3,000, provide ADA accessibility and a safer seating environment.
Exterior and interior pictures of YVC’s Palmer Martin Hall. The building, which opened in June 2015, is home to art, communication studies, education, and modern language instruction. It contains classrooms, art studios, digital art, language and speech labs, faculty offices, plus a seminar room and study spaces.
Palmer Martin Hall Earns LEED Gold Certification YVC’s Palmer Martin Hall has been awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Gold certification, as established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). This designation reflects the college’s commitment to exceeding standards for environmentally-responsible construction. With design work by BORArchitecture, and GH Moen as contractor, Palmer Martin Hall features all-natural flooring, dual-duct heating and cooling with heat recovery in exhaust ports, and solar paneling on the roof. It is the second LEED Gold certification for a YVC building; the Grandview Library earned that status after opening in 2011.
College Loans Seal to Yakima Valley Museum In May, the Yakima Valley Museum accepted, on loan, the large wooden seal that had adorned the back wall of the MLK Boardroom of the Hopf Union Building on YVC’s Yakima Campus. This design of the College Seal represented Yakima Valley Community College (now “Yakima Valley College”) for a period of almost 50 years; this particular carving is believed to date to the 1970s. At its heart is the College Shield, designed in 1958 by Craig G. Gunter, director of student affairs. The donated seal has been replaced by a new carving, similar in style but updated to reflect the college’s name change. The inscription on donated the shield reads “Abeunt Studia in Mores,” a Latin motto which translates to “Studies Form Habits.”
From left: Director of Facility Operations Jeff Wood with Yakima Valley Museum Interim Executive Director David Burton.
West Campus Acquisition In March, the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges approved YVC’s plan to acquire property adjacent to the Yakima Campus. At a price tag of $3.77 million, YVC purchased the property at 1606, 1608, and 1704 Nob Hill Boulevard that once held Hancock Fabrics, Craft Warehouse, and Koi Bistro. Plans for the property involve renovating the existing buildings to make them suitable as classroom space. This purchase also allows the college to expand parking for students.
YVC’s new property along Nob Hill Blvd.
Spring 2017 12
CAMPUS NEWS
YVC Awarded Project I-DEA Grant YVC was recently awarded a $20,000 Project Integrated Digital English Acceleration (I-DEA) grant from the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges’ (SBCTC) Basic Education for Adults program. A collaboration between The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the SBCTC, the I-DEA grant program builds on the success of the Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training (I-BEST) initiative. Grants funded through this program allow colleges to engage additional groups of adult learners in I-DEA instruction. YVC’s Toppenish Learning Center YVC will use this grant funding to increase digital, career, and college-readiness skills of adult English as a Second Language students attending the Toppenish Learning Center. The ultimate goal is the help these students gain the skills necessary to obtain living wage jobs. As part of the grant students will have access to new laptops and will be allowed to check them out. The curriculum teaches students through a web-enhanced classroom model, where they use computers in class to enhance the learning, as well as pre-work before coming to class to practice their skills. Lessons are broken down into modules and students receive eight hours of one-on-one time a week – with an additional two hours of work being done at home. “I-DEA is a great opportunity for students, as it incorporates eLearning, enabling them to study course content outside of class and accelerate their learning. The model increases digital literacy, better preparing students for transition into Adult Basic Education and college courses,” stated Interim Dean of Basic Skills and the Grandview Campus Marc Coomer.
YVC Welcomes New Dean for the Grandview Campus This June Yakima Valley College was pleased to welcome a new dean to oversee the Grandview Campus. Dr. Marcia Somer brings over 25 years of experience in the area of higher education, specifically community and technical colleges. Somer holds a doctorate of philosophy from Oregon State University in education – community college leadership, a master of arts in child and family studies from Washington State University, and bachelor of science in human development from the University of Hawaii. Her most recent experience was as Associate Dean of Instruction at Lake Washington Institute of Technology in Kirkland, Washington. Prior to that, Dr. Somer was a Dean of English and Social Sciences and Dean of Instruction at Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, California, and Clover Park Technical College in Lakewood, Washington respectively. Dr. Somer has overseen many technical workforce programs such as architectural and mechanical design, computer networking and systems security, web and animation design and production, education, culinary and baking arts, wine technology, business, and dental and dental hygiene. She has also overseen basic skills, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, campus child care center, library, tutoring and assessment centers, and continuing education. As a leader, Dr. Somer has engaged in several key projects including the areas of self-study for accreditation, diversity plans, and helping design of a Child and Family Education Center. Three of her proudest accomplishments are establishing a diversity course graduation requirement, receiving the Frances Davis Award for Excellence in Education, and parenting two children, both graduates of Western Washington University. 13 Yakima Valley College
SCHOLARSHIPS
From left: The YVC Foundation Scholarship Award Ceremony; 10th Annual Grape to Glass Gala.
Foundation Scholarship This past May the YVC Foundation hosted their 20th Annual Scholarship Award Ceremony. Since 1977, the Foundation has worked to provide scholarships to YVC students and support to faculty and staff of the college. Starting with $140,000 the Foundation’s endowment has grown to $11,500,000 and now includes contributions from 150 donors. In its 40-year history the Foundation has awarded more than 5,000 scholarships to students, totaling nearly $5 million. This year the Foundation set an all-time record of giving by providing over $580,000 in scholarship awards to 200 students. This year’s scholarship awards also increased to $3,000 for most students. One scholarship awarded is the Vice President of Instruction and Student Services Scholarship. This year’s recipient was Victoria Mejia. A graduate of A.C. Davis High School, she will begin her educational journey at YVC this fall. She hopes to pursue a career in the medical field and hopes to become a physical therapist. Accounting Manager Angela Anthony received the scholarship for administrative staff. She states, “I am greatly honored and thankful to be awarded the administrative scholarship. I am so blessed to work here where continued education is encouraged and rewarded. This scholarship puts me one step closer to earning my master’s degree. Thank you YVC and the Foundation,” she concluded.
Grape to Glass Gala In May YVC’s Vineyard and Winery Technology Program hosted the 10th annual Grape to Glass Gala. The event’s proceeds benefit student scholarships. Over $7,000 was raised through the events that will go toward scholarships during the 2017-2018 academic year. One student who benefited from scholarships during the 2016-2017 academic year is Kevin Cassidy. “I am extremely grateful to have received two Grape to Glass Gala Scholarships this year,” stated Cassidy. “These scholarships made achieving success at YVC easier, and helped in my goal of obtaining a career in the wine industry,” he continued.
Rotary Scholarships This spring the Rotary Club of Yakima awarded three sets of scholarships to students pursuing college degrees during the 2017-2018 academic year. Many of these students will be attending YVC in the fall or are former YVC students. Vocational scholarships were received by the following students: Carissa Bond, Rommel Castro, Briana Dunn, Camille Huck, Emilse Osorio, and Jonny Zuniga Romero. Academic scholarships were awarded to Gunner Newell and Kylyn Tripp. Mary Monroe Davis scholarships were awarded to Taylor Herrick, Kaito Durkee, Nektarios Hagler, Gunner Newell, and Kylyn Tripp.
Spring 2017 14
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
From left: student Dirce Schuler poses next to her artwork at the Department of Visual Arts exhibition, automotive student Michael St. Hilaire, one of YVV’s wine entries from the 34th Annual Washington State Wine Competition.
Department of Visual Arts This year’s Department of Visual Arts (DoVA) Student and Faculty exhibition included 113 works from students who had taken classes over the past year in ceramics, photography, drawing, design, and painting. Several faculty members also exhibited their work. Twenty-three awards from honorable mention to best of show were presented. “It is fascinating to view the work each year, and see if there is a trend or main idea in the students’ work as a whole. This year was extremely diverse and of very good quality, with many students approaching the medium in surprising ways,” stated Larson Gallery Director David Lynx.
SkillsUSA Five students from YVC’s Automotive Service Technology program recently participated in the SkillsUSA State Competition. SkillsUSA is an applied method of instruction for preparing America’s high performance workers in public career and technical programs. Student Michael St. Hilaire won a silver medal in the automotive skills competition. He is the runner up in this area for Nationals. The skills competition included a written test and eight separate practical skills stations. “SkillsUSA is not just an organization it is an opportunity for a motivated student in a technical workforce program to hone their personnel, leadership, and trade skills,” stated Automotive Service Technology Instructor Murray Ruggles. “Competitions boost their confidence and reward them for a job well done. The rewards come in different forms: competition medals, related industry prizes (donated by sponsors), and quite possibly job offers, not to mention a bigger portfolio. Corporate sponsors range from local to international companies, who see the value in the organization, and donate prizes and resources to fuel these students’ drive to better themselves and their industry,” he continued.
Yakima Valley Vintners Earn Honors YVC’s Teaching Winery, Yakima Valley Vintners (YVV) recently received four awards for their student crafted wines at the 2017 Seattle Wine Awards. YVV’s 2014 Science Fair Carménére received a gold medal along with the 2014 Dean’s List Red Blend. The 2014 Full Circle Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2016 Textbook White Gewürztraminer each garnered silver medals. In addition, the 2014 Lemberger and the 2016 Study Break Sèmillon, each earned gold medals at the 34th Annual Washington State Wine Competition hosted on the Grandview Campus. All award-winning wines submitted by YVV were produced by students completing course work in YVC’s Vineyard & Winery Technology program. The wines are marketed through the program on Grandview Campus which houses a winery facility and tasting room. All wines submitted were judged blindly by a panel of prominent wine professionals. YVC student wines are included with all of the other commercial wines during the competition. These honors bring the total earned by YVC’s program to 88.
15 Yakima Valley College
From left: Dr. Ken Zontek, Timothy Allen, Monty Walker and Dr. Timothy Jeske during the Herodotus-Gedosch Award presentation, ASYVC Director of Student Programs Nancy Vargas presents student Reymundo Enciso with a certificate during the Students of Color of Achievement Celebration, students from the Math& 107 class during a field trip to Wild Horse Wind and Solar Facility.
Herodotus-Gedosch Award Congratulations to YVC Student Timothy Allen who was recently received the 2016-2017 Herodotus-Gedosch Award. First given in 1994, this award was created in the spirit of Herodotus, the “Father of History,” and Robert Gedosch, a former YVC History Instructor and recognizes exceptional history students. Each year the recipient is selected by History Instructor Dr. Ken Zontek, History Instructor Monty Walker, and Political Science Instructor Dr. Timothy Jeske. Allen received books from the three instructors and his name will be included on the perpetual plaque that hangs in Glenn Anthon Hall.
Students of Color Achievement Celebration This June Associated Students of Yakima Valley College celebrated the 2nd Annual Students of Color Achievement Celebration. This event highlights the hard-work and dedication of YVC students. An opening prayer was provided by members of the Yakama Nation. The event also included two guest speakers, Aztec and Filipino dancers, refreshments, a dance, and a ceremony where students were presented with certificates and a patch to wear on their graduation caps. Approximately 25 students attended this year’s celebration with their families, friends and loved ones.
Math& 107 Fieldtrip Students in Doug Lewis’ Math in Society Class recently took a field trip to the Wild Horse Wind and Solar Facility & Renewable Energy Center near Ellensburg. The center, operated by Puget Sound Energy, offers visitors a look at how wind and light are turned into electricity. During the trip they were able to attend a seminar on wind power and learn how the turbines work, the history of wind power, its environmental impact, and the potential for electrical energy production using a renewable resource like wind. “The most mind blowing aspect of this trip was the realization of how big the wind generators actually are,” stated Student Persia Anderson. “Each blade is seven tons! The bottom of the turbine is the size of a room, which is huge! Knowing how big each one is and knowing Wild Horse has 149 of them is inspiring,” she continued.
Earth Fest As part of this year’s celebration of the work of Aldo Leopold, and in conjunction with Earth Day, YVC’s arts and sciences division hosted Earth Fest in April. The education festival featured exhibits that touched on one or more of three Leopold themes: an interest in the relation of people to each other and the relation of people to the land; land is a community to which people belong; and land is a fountain of energy flowing through a circuit of soils, plants, and animals. “The event consisted of approximately twenty interactive stations where students learned about the human relationship to nature. More than 200 students participated in the event,” stated History Instructor Dr. Ken Zontek. Spring 2017 16
ATHLETICS
Jashaun Simon
2016-2017 Women’s Softball Team
Baseball
Softball
Another sparkling season for YVC Baseball, as the team finished its 2017 campaign with 33 wins to just 18 losses. The season ended with a loss in the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC) Super Regional, played at Parker Faller Field. It was a remarkable debut season for Cole McKenzie, a freshman who initially thought he might red-shirt this season and ended up being named to the first team of the American Baseball Coaches Association’s Pacific Association Division All-America team. McKenzie is off to Gonzaga University to continue his collegiate baseball career. Head Coach Kyle Krustangel received sterling pitching performances from Gerald Hein and Jack Hadley, who each pitched the team to four victories.
Athletes of the Year Each year coaches representing all of the YVC 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 sports. This year the Female Athlete of the Year Award was given to women’s basketball player Sammi Blodgett. The Male Athlete of the Year Award was given to baseball player Cole McKenzie. 17 Yakima Valley College
When his team first lined up at the start of softball season, Head Coach Chuck Bodeen immediately noticed a difference. “We started with 24 girls, which is more than I’ve ever had,” stated Bodeen, who just finished his 12th season with the team. “I liked the effort they gave, even if we didn’t win as much as we’d like, we were competitive and played in a lot of close games. I’m very excited about the team we have coming back next year,” he continued. This year’s squad finished with a record of 11-27, with the offense led by Shania Carlisle (.368 batting average) and the pitching staff led by Sami Cooper’s six victories.
Women’s Soccer Gives Back to the Community This spring, the Yakima Valley College women’s soccer team partnered with the Special Olympics soccer team of Yakima. Yak players helped coach the team weekly throughout spring quarter, teaching the fundamentals of defending and attacking, dribbling, passing, and finishing. They also acted as referees at the regional special Olympics soccer tournament held in April. YVC players who participated in the program include: Addy Eckstrom, Courtney Ahn, Olivia Stenquist, Kelsey Smith, Elli Alexander, Taylor Foley, Persia Anderson, Katie Balauro, and Cami Pfliger. “The partnership is amazing because it allows our athletes to get involved within the community and bond over a sport they are passionate about,” stated YVC Head Soccer Coach Abigail Drollinger. A truly enriching opportunity, YVC players enjoyed giving back to the local community. “Who doesn’t love teaching something they’re passionate about? It’s been so great working with the Yakima Special Olympics soccer team!” stated Freshman Cami Pfliger.
PEOPLE Congratulations to Jeff St. George, the recipient of the Spring 2017 Classified Employee of the Quarter Award. St. George is a custodian in Facility Operations. He began working for the college in 2007. English Instructor Julie Swedin was recently selected as the recipient of the Charles B. Clizer Jr. Graduate Fellowship in Education Administration Jeff St. George from Washington State University (WSU). The three-thousand-dollar award will support her dissertation work during the 2017-2018 academic year. Swedin was also recently inducted into WSU’s chapter of the oldest collegiate honor society called Phi Kappa Phi. Communications Instructor Kathy Starr recently received a Competent Communicator Award for Toastmasters International and a Competent Leadership Award. Starr is a member of Yakima’s Sun City Toastmasters here in Yakima. In April she placed 2nd in the Inspirational Talk Contest as well as the Speech Evaluator Contest for our area. History Instructor Dr. Ken Zontek was recently elected president of the Association of Washington Historians for the 2017-2018 year. The Associated Students of YVC recognized several individuals at this year’s spring recognition event. Awards include: Jason Gooch, Instructor of the Year; Vicente Lopez, Advisor of the Year; Caitlin Goodwill, Distinguished Service Award-Admin/Exempt; Roxanne Baca, Distinguished Service Award-Classified; Otto Cruz, Student of the Year; Tutoring Center, Program of the Year; Gaming Club, Club of the Year; Karly Beth Serrano, Ambassador of the Year. The Grandview Student Council also presented awards to Brian Patterson, Faculty of the Year; Susie Corona, Staff of the Year; and Ubaldo Pena, Student of the Year.
Retirements
This June YVC said goodbye to many long-time employees who have retired after giving many years of service to the college. 2016-2017 Retirements Chris Beaudry, radiologic sciences instructor Jodi Benetti, credentials evaluator II Janet Cantelon, director of financial aid Eugene Gandy Jr., custodian I David Huycke, geology instructor Linda Ison, fiscal technician III Shirley Mohsenian, allied health technology instructor Mark Rogstad, director of human resource services Carolyn Schut, mathematics instructor William Spaletta, nursing instructor
Calendar
www.yvcc.edu/calendar
July 22: How to Make Phone Calls with Your Camera The Larson Gallery presents How to Make Phone Calls with Your Camera. This workshop will help participants become familiar with their iPhone camera and confident in using it. The workshop will be held from 9:00am-4:00pm. Workshop cost is $60.00. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
July 22-23: Intro into Color Theory The Larson Gallery presents Intro into Color Theory, with Carol Hassen & Bob Fisher. This workshop provides an overview of color and color-combining strategies. The workshop will be held from 1:00-4:00pm on Saturday, and 9:00am-4:00pm on Sunday. Workshop cost is $175.00. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
July 24-28: Volleyball Camp
Join YVC for technical training and competition. This camp provides advance and basic training in the areas of passing, serving, hitting, setting, footwork, attack methods, offense and defense, and serving. Cost is $245.00. For more information: 574.4729 or www.goyaks.com
August 9: Last Day to Apply for Admission
August 9 is the last day to apply for admission for fall quarter 2017 for new full- or part-time students seeking a degree or certificate. For more information visit: www.yvcc.edu/apply
September 4: Soccer
Come cheer for the women’s soccer team as they battle Highline Community College. For a complete list of upcoming games visit: www.goyaks.com
September 18: Fall Quarter Begins
YVC classes for fall quarter 2017 begin on September 18. New students must apply for admission prior to August 9. For more information visit: www.yvcc.edu Spring 2017 4
YAKIMA VA L L E Y COLLEGE
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Explore the options available through YVC’s Adult Basic Education Program High School 21+ • GED • English as a Second Language • I-BEST • CAP
www.yvcc.edu/ABE