YAKIMA VALLEY COLLEGE Campus Update, Spring 2018
Board of Trustees Rosalinda Mendoza, Chair Patrick Baldoz Sara Cate, M.D.
Letter from the President
Neil McClure
Another academic year came to an
Robert Ozuna
end on June 15 as we celebrated our 89th annual commencement
Produced by:
ceremony, only the second time at the
Jay Frank
Yakima Valley SunDome. Since the
Stefanie Menard
word “commencement” means “to Contributing Photographers:
begin,” some might think it an odd
Jay Frank
term to describe college graduation.
Justin Hawkes
Some suggest that, like the caps and
Stefanie Menard
gowns, it dates back to medieval times when university students entered as
Contributing Writers:
apprentices and, upon completing their
Jay Frank Stefanie Menard Published: July 2018 If you would like to be added or removed from our mailing list, please contact us: Yakima Valley College Community Relations
education, became a master or doctor. Many of our graduates are beginning their careers while others are continuing their education. In addition to awarding 1,239 degrees and certificates, we were able to present awards for distinguished service, faculty emeritus, and distinguished alumnus, as well as, several YVC Foundation awards for outstanding faculty and staff. It was exhilarating to see our graduates and their families once again fill the SunDome. In addition to the commencement ceremony, we also have attended many pinning ceremonies for our graduates in health
PO Box 22520
professions, completion ceremonies for our College and Career Readiness
Yakima, WA 98907-2520
students as they earn their high school diplomas and GED certification, and
communityrelations@yvcc.edu
scholarship award ceremonies for our incoming and continuing students.
509.574.4646
You will read about all of these events that recognize the achievements
Connect with Us! Facebook
www.facebook.com/YakimaValleyCollege
YouTube www.youtube.com/YakimaValleyCC
of our students, faculty and staff in this issue of the Campus Update. As we end our 89th year, we would like to thank you, our community, for the generous support you continue to provide which has and continues to enable our students, faculty and staff to be successful in achieving their goals.
Instagram www.instagram.com/yakimavalleycollege Yakima Valley 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, YVC, South 16th Ave. & Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima, WA 98902; or call 509.574.4670.
Sincerely,
Linda Kaminski, Ed.D. President
Contents 3 4 5 9 11 12 13 14 15 17 18
Commencement Graduate Highlights 2017-18 Graduate List Commencement Awards Program News Campus News Scholarships Celebrating Success Student Activities Athletics YVC’s People
Cover Photo: Graduates during YVC’s 89th Commencement Ceremony held in June. Read about our commencement ceremony on the next page. Back Cover Photo: YVC’s Choral program visited Portland, OR in May, with one performance entertaining pedestrians at Tillikum Crossing.
COMMENCEMENT
This June YVC celebrated its 89th Commencement Ceremony. This year’s celebration was held at Yakima Valley SunDome. The annual ceremony provides family and friends the opportunity to join in celebrating the incredible work of YVC’s graduates, while showcasing the college’s core theme of providing access to the community. The class of 2018 earned a total of 1,239 degrees and certificates. This year’s ceremony included a record number of Running Start Students, 168 in total, who were earning both their high school diploma and two-year degree. This year’s graduating class also included bachelor recipients in business management, dental hygiene, and information technology networking system administration. 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 Jan Yoshiwara. Yoshiwara is Executive Director of the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), an agency that administers Washington’s system of 34 public community and technical colleges. The SBCTC sets policy, allocates state operating and capital funds to the colleges, strategically plans the two-year college mission, and approves educational programs. This year’s student commencement speaker was Erica LuaAlonzo. Lua-Alonzo, born and raised in the Yakima Valley, has completed her associate of applied science degree in bilingual administrative office assistant. She enrolled at YVC pursing a degree from the business technology program in the spring of 2016. Following YVC she plans to continue her career as a Special Programs Administrative Assistant and District Translator with the East Valley School District.
3 Yakima Valley College
Class of 2018 By the Numbers 1,239 Degrees & Certificates 68 Bachelor’s Degrees 198 Attended Grandview Campus 17 to 65 Age Range of Graduates 168 Running Start Students 317 Graduating with Honors 17 Veterans
GRADUATE HIGHLIGHTS
Aida Bazan Aida Bazan grew up in the Yakima Valley. After high school she enrolled at YVC and began taking prerequisite courses. After deciding to take a break from her education, Bazan married, had her first child, and began working as a dental assistant. When her husband lost his job and needed different skills for a new career, Aida supported his decision to return to school. This situation was a changing point for the couple, and they both realized that they wanted to be able to provide a better life for their family. After he earned his bachelor’s degree, it was Aida’s turn to complete her education. In the fall of 2014 she re-enrolled at YVC with a goal of completing her bachelor of applied science in dental hygiene. Having completed her degree Bazan plans to begin working as a dental hygienist in the Yakima Valley.
David Zarate David Zarate was born in Colombia. After the death of his father, his mother decided to move the family to the United States settling in Miami, FL. After graduating from high school, he worked a series of jobs and was unable to pursue higher education due to his immigration status and financial burdens. When President Obama signed the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in June 2012, Zarate saw an opportunity to do more. He enrolled part-time at Miami Dade College and began working on his pre-requisite courses to pursue a degree in chemistry. After the death of his mother, he relocated to the Pacific Northwest and decided to switch his major to computer science. Zarate graduated this June with an associate in computer science DTA. In the fall, he will begin pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science at the University of Washington.
Harleen Kaur Harleen Kaur was born in Seattle, WA and moved to the Yakima Valley with her family when she was in the 8th grade. She attended La Salle High School for two years before transferring to East Valley High School so she could take advantage of YVC’s Running Start program. On campus, Kaur worked in the Speech Lab helping other students prepare assignments and overcome their fear of public speaking. She has also been an advocate for promoting students’ voices on campus. This interest led her to produce a video highlighting the diversity at YVC. Harleen graduates this June with an associate in arts degree and her high school diploma. In the fall, she will transfer to Central Washington University to pursue a degree in administrative management with a minor in organizational communication.
Ilene Uerling Ilene Uerling grew up in the Yakima Valley. Her senior year of high school was interrupted by pregnancy, as she decided to drop out of school and begin working. After several attempts to continue her education were unsuccessful, she reached out to YVC, finding a friendly and supportive staff to help start her on her path to success. She enrolled in the I-BEST NAC program while taking the courses she needed to complete her GED. Following completion of the NAC program, she applied and tested for the WA State Department of Health’s certification. Having passed both, she is now planning to work in the Emergency Room at Virginia Mason Memorial Hospital.
Spring 2018 4
BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT: Tonia D Patnode • Stanley E Sellers • James A Benfiet • Jesus M Alvarez • Ryan G Bonnin • Andrea Cardenas • Matthew B Carpenter • Jesus Iii Cerrillo • Laura Chavez • Paige M Curtsinger • Donald A Darnell • Diana M Dolquist • Aaron S Fowler • Karina Garcia • Taylor D Herrick • Stephanie Hutson-Wade • Brian C Ireton • Gloria M Knoeb • Marlena B Ramirez • Jessenia E Rodriguez • Katherine M Rodriguez • Samantha M Rodriguez • Daisy Rojas • Hector F Sanchez • Victoria Sanchez • Elizabeth J Stavros • Steven A Stine • Sydney A Thompson • Debbie V Vasquez • Denise Vera • Kristina J Weaver • Tammera F Leroue • Rhonda L Marquez
BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN DENTAL HYGIENE: Sonica N Anserello • Julie M Bates • Carly D Goltiani • Patricia R Lee • Rebecca M Maciel • Alicia M Moore • Denise A Nelson • Jannet Sanchez • Aida K Bazan • Sara J Borneman • Brianna K Byrne • Kristian A Carrasco • Maria G Castaneda • Connelly M Dehaven • Gilbert Felix • Kiley R Hillman • Kelsey D Holmes • Emily A James • Lauren M Ledesma • Britany A Lie • Anna M Mahony • Kariss Martinez-Cuevas • Katrina L Myrland • Kayla M Nelson • Elpidia B Saavedra • Mikal D Wilkerson • Julie A Wilson BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY NETWORKING SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION: Eduardo A Castro • Greg A Collins • Larry K Frazier • Pamela L Gabbard • Artemio Sanchez • Andrew A Salvagno • Adam J Suarez • Bradley T Tice ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY GENERAL: Eliazar Valero• Janet A Gonzalez • Blake A Kitt • Rick D Mcloud • Cipriano Meraz INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY GENERAL CERTIFICATE: Justin J Christensen • Janet A Gonzalez INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OFFICE SUITE CERTIFICATE: Janet A Gonzalez • Benita M Tapia • Anna M Vance ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE TELEVISION PRODUCTION/BROADCAST: Ruben Martinez • Madeline A Klein • Anthony J Perez ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTING: Howard E Rescorla III • Kain K Bridges • Amanda N Bestebreur • Genie Ann Connel • Maria M Garcia • Ilse M Ornelas • Danika L Pimms • Leticia C Rivas • Emma Sandoval • Ruby W Baker • Genie Ann Connel • Raymie J Dyches • Genie Ann Connel • Steven Roman ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN AGRIBUSINESS: Kevin R Cassidy • Cole J Derrey • Madison R Door • Domingo R Martinez • Tyler B Carpenter • Warren H Griffin • Lupe Serrano Jr • Ivan A Gonzalez ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE
TECHNOLOGY: Krystal J Decaney • Sergio Escalera Lopez • Shane L Merrill • Michael P St. Hilaire • Spencer W Ramos • Maria G Redfield ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Norma J Fernandez • Brenda Guzman • Benita M Tapia • Heather R Whiting • Raymie J Dyches • Elias A Herrera • Christina E Carefoot • Stephanie Gutierrez • Leilani E Hernandez • Maegan M Michael • Anna M Vance • Pablo Sosa • Maria C Trevino • Pedro N Chavarria • Alisia Chavez • Erica Lua Alonzo • Diana P Andino ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN BUSINESS
TECHNOLOGY LEGAL OFFICE ASSISTANT: Elvira Lustre • Christina E Carefoot • Norma J Fernandez • Eva A Rivera • Alexis M Schafer • Benita M Tapia • Anette Padilla ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY MEDICAL OFFICE ASSISTANT: Alondra Ambris • Diana H Valdez • Norma J Fernandez • Benita M Tapia • Gabriela R Tinajero • Jose A Cortes Silva • Beatriz Armas • Anna M Vance ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT ENTREPRENEURSHIP SPECIALTY: Alejandra L Alcala ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT: Alexander R Hernandez • Diana Mendoza • Jared A Sluman • Alejandra L Alcala • Jered J Brown • Genie Ann Connel • Ana L Graciano • Misty A Knox • Abedalazez B Musabeh • Ilse M Ornelas • Amanda E Randles • Tabitha R Reilly • Howard E Rescorla III • Mari C Reyes •Colithea F Strong • Genie Ann Connel • Sierra A Rusk • Jeremy C Brachtenbach • Raymond O Negrete • Talia V Rodriguez ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION MARKETING SPECIALTY: Alejandra L Alcala • Tabitha R Reilly • Griselda S Silva • Rachel R Rodman ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN CHEMICAL DEPENDENCEY STUDIES: Barbara J Bunker • Veronica A Navarro • Jessica Padilla • Shernell L Wilkens • Danny B York • Olga Bautista • Ana Y Michel • Raymond M Hernandez • Ramon Razo • Cassidy A Smith • Jasmine N Barrera • Sarah C Foglesong • Maguen Landa Samano • Heidi L Strom • Thomas P Ridge • Matt E Roberts • Debra L Mains • Maria L Reeves ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN CIVIL
ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY: Everette A Howe • Hugo Baeza • Craig R Johnston • Scott P Petersen • Nicolas Salamanca • Rommel E Castro • Lenard D Halderman • Juan M Mercado ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE: Allan Locia Lorenzo • Brenda E Torres • Brenda L Valencia • Jose A Gonzalez • Miranda C Miller • Lukas P Pechtel • Valeria Baeza • Laura Chavez Cervantes • Vanessa De La Cruz • Esteban G Gallardo • Joshua L Lowe • David E Maldonado • Jasmine Medrano • Alejandra V Ochoa • Justin M Ryan • Raquel Shook • Betina Sanchez • Laura Chavez Cervantes • Jaritt N Hays • Lukas P Pechtel • Jose A Gonzalez • David E Maldonado • Miranda C Miller • Vanessa De La Cruz • Joshua L Lowe • Alejandra V Ochoa • Betina Sanchez • Raquel Shook • Jose A Gonzalez • Jaritt N Hays • Allan Locia Lorenzo • Raquel Shook • Brenda L Valencia • David E Maldonado • Valeria Baeza • Joshua L Lowe • Jasmine Medrano • Justin M Ryan • Betina Sanchez • Jose A Gonzalez • Jaritt N Hays • Allan Locia Lorenzo • Raquel Shook • David E Maldonado • Betina Sanchez • Esteban G Gallardo • Joshua L Lowe • Jasmine Medrano • Justin M Ryan ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD
EDUCATION: Grecia Carrillo • Greci Quintana Castill • Erin S Holloway • Nancy Roman Ventura • Cassandra L Schultz • Erin S Holloway • Marisa M Ortiz • Tomi L Barragan • Sulema Cruz ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PRESCHOOL SPED OPTION: Diane 5 Yakima Valley College
Nelson • Rosalia Robledo • Hidalia E Mendoza • Tiffany L Owens • Belen Rosales • Rosa E Gonzalez ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN ELECTRICAL TECHNOLOGY: Adam Rieker ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN INSTR/INDUST AUTOMATION TECH: Silas J Brugman • Rachel L Frahm ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY GENERAL SUPPORT SPECIALIST: Ibette Cruz • Jessie W Mcintosh ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY NETWORK ADMINISTRATION: Jesus A Diaz • Eliazar Valero • Deanne J Withrow • Rick L Withrow • Brandon L Andrews • Ricardo Ayala • John W Costello • Edgar Gutierrez • Blake A Kitt • Chancellor T Morgan • Jace A Torres
ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN MEDICAL ASSISTING: Vanessa Aviles • Autumn S Cadengo • Denise Carreon • Guadalupe Chavez • Jodi M Paul Gonzalez • Llesenia Ramos • Veronica Reyna • Eliana Rodriguez • Blanca J Romero Campos • Emily M Aragon • Monica Arellano • Darlene L Bartlett • Janette L Carmona • Jocelyn Cholico • Daisy Gonzalez • Laura J Lawrence • Annelisa A Martinez Amy L Morfin • Katie A Richards ASSOCIATE OF
APPLIED SCIENCE IN NURSING: Marissa A Aguilar • Brittney L Borchardt • Maria G Espinoza • Whitney R Graf • Blaine F Gutheridge • Jessica P Hamer • Emily B Harrison • Lauren E Jones • Agnes M Komorowski • Erica Macias • Samantha G Mesman • Elizabeth Rodriguez • Salvador Rodriguez • Jaylynn K Rowbotham • Senorina Silva • Krishauna L Simpson • Matthew A Warner • Jennifer L Woolsey • Gavin A Bakker • Carissa A Bond • Sandra Bravo • Juliet M Dennis • Lara R Eastman • Lizbeth Flores • Jordan K Haberman • Amanda L Kilseimer • Alexandria M Langlow • Marbella Leyva • Lucero Ramirez • Ashley R Schillinger • Amanda J Stout • Mosiah A Wilson • Araceli Arevalo • Domingo R Barrera • Ashlee L Berg • Jennifer R Bon • Marshall W Clement • Madison J Detloff • Cheyenne L Ganuelas • Evan Garcia • Soledad Gonzalez • Yessica M Gonzalez • Stephen P Hoff • Nicole M Hulskamp • Kaylee R Jordan • Lisania Lopez • Kara A Lowe • Rachelle M Mcpherson • Esmeralda Mendoza • Albert C Pham • Arlae Ramirez • Ashley M Storms • Nancy Torres • Guadalupe Zaragoza ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN PARAEDUCATOR: Daniel Aguilar • Adriana M Arias • Magali Munguia Pena • Amanda L Moore
ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY: Alissa Akland • Alisha M Eaton • Kari L Erwin • Jazmin Mendoza • Stephanie M Pinkham • Maria Rivas • Salee N Salinas • Melissa M Schiel • Brenda Verduzco • Maria M Verduzco ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN
VETERINARY TECHNOLOGY: Mercedes A Barrans • Savannah N Brommer • Jenna E Campbell • Bryona J Frick • Joelle L Hand • Havilah R Hansen • Guadalupe Ibarra • Chelsea M Lamm • Natalie K Mcvey • Hannah E Payne • Amelia R Reed • Heather J Robison • Ashley P Singleterry • Melissa R Streitmatter • Cortney J Sybouts • Jane Unzelman • Jasmin S Washburn • Violeta Aguilar • Alexis B Golphenee ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN
WINERY TECHNOLOGY: Amie E Thornton ASSOCIATE IN ARTS-DTA: Cristina Acosta • Ashley A Altomare • Ericlee R Amaro • Joaquin M Arambul • Ramon Ascencio • Marisela M Baca • Lorena Barajas • Nicole M Barnes • Brenda L Barragan • Sarah M Boyle • Alec J Brown • Jose A Casas Vargas • Erik A Castillo • Maria D Cervantes • Jasmin Corona • Diane C Coronado • Daniela M Covarrubias • Marlin J Davidson • Brianne V Drake • Justin D Dunfee • Lainie E Elder • Kaitlin P Elmo • Katina N Ferguson • Henry W Feusner • Makena R Fischer • Jessica N Galaviz • Cecilia A Galindo • Eric B Galland • Albino Garcia • Anakaren Garcia • Bryn A Glassgow • Coraima L Gomez • Meaalofa P Gomez • Jocelyn D Gonzalez • Miguel A Gonzalez • Rafael Gonzalez • Nickol J Grimm • Rebecca C Guerrero • Alissa W Gutierrez • Ashley R Hatfield • James S Huffman • Diana J Jacinto • Estasia M Kerrigan • Erica M Libenow • Monika R Linstad • Mitzi Lopez • Vanessa L Lopez • Patricia A Lowrie • Cristal Lupercio • Sandra Maciel • Sara K Maciel • Ruth M Maldonado • Adrian I Maravilla • Linda Marquez • Ashley C Martinez • Crystal N Martinez • Raymond S Martinez • Kariss Martinez Cuevas • Krista S Mcmanus • Andrew B Mellotte • Kailyn M Mendez • Saida Mendoza • Melanie L Merrill • Irene Milanez • Allison R Monroe • Nancy Monter • Juan Pallares • Robert M Permann • Kassandra Prieto • Barbara A Ramsey • Keisha S Riojas • Yahayra Rodriguez • Jorge A Rosales • Quinn M Schrindel • Madison A Sells • Elegardo S Serrano • Braydon R Shields • Tayler A Shohan • Jennifer A Smith • Jorge A Solis • Rick C Templeton • Henry D Tetreault• Lane H Traynor • Adriana Valencia • Melissa A Vantrease • Maria I Vargas • Brenda M Vasquez • Elizabeth Verduzco • Jesse D Villanueva • Erica Villarreal • Nathan I Watrous • Shelby L Wilkey • Perry L Williams • Charlene B Yearout • Carson S Young • Daniel T Acob • Alyssa M Aguilera • Fernando Alaniz • Azayla A Alvarado • Lisa M Alvarado • Katherine Barrera • Sophia M Barttels • Kalyssa M Belzer • Maricela Bess Madrigal • Elizabeth L Bohon • Micca J Brandt • Mikaela B Brown • Erik M Burton • Gina Cardenas • Linda N Carrillo • Stephanie Castro • Jesus J Chavez • Drew S Childers • Kaitlyn N Clark • Rochelle M Cleem • Micaella M Contreras • Julissa A Correa • Jared K Covington • Maria M Delgado • Kelsey R Drewniany • Colin C Dubuc • Samantha R Ehlis • Yasmine M Espinoza • Miguel A Farias • Lori E Fischer • Bianca Flores • Rosa I Flores • Kimberly A Fowler • Amaury Garcia Cumming • Eric L Garza • Aspen P Greenwalt • Blaine F Gutheridge • Jasmine Guzman • Jonathon W Heese • Trystan D Herzog • Kameron Hoff Williams • Michelle R Hurst • Kevin Ishimwe • Esmeralda Jacobo • Sydney M Jordan • Angelica L Kiser • Lissette Larios • Anthony R Ledesma • Tyler J Lindsey • Jaqueline G Martinez • Samuel K Masters • Jessica R Mcalpine • Cindy V Mejia • Alejandra B Mendoza • Elizabeth Mendoza • Edith Y Meraz • Angelica Mercado • Cheyenne J Merritt • Edgardo Navarro • Modesto Ortiz • Yadira Oseguera • Delaney K Patrick • Trisha D Pearsall • Iliane Plaza Hernandez • Christopher M Ramirez • Edith Ramos • Jen L Rankin • Elaine M Razey •Jesus A Reyes • Debra J Rich • Robert S Ring • Marecela Rodriguez • Rachel A Rojas • Misty D Sanchez • Leah M Shenyer • Gabriel Sillas • Josue Silva • Curtis D Simmons • Kaliko C Smith • Matthew A Snodgrass • Nicholas R Sommerville • Melissa R Streitmatter • Kasie D Thompson • Kendall C Unser • Valeria G Vargas • Hilario R Verduzco Spring 2018 6
GRADUATING CLASS OF 2018 ASSOCIATE IN ARTS-DTA: Trenten D Walkenhauer • Barbara D Wood • Kassidy A Wyckoff • Burnadette C Yates • Daisy Abonza • Samantha A Achziger • Jennifer Aguiar • Lauren K Alderman • Tyler D Allen • Maria G Alvarez • Lizette Ambriz • Edgar G Amezcua • Lidia Anaya-Rodriguez • Persia L Anderson • Yesica Andrade • Mercedes J Andrews • Yulisa A Apodaca • Adilene I Arias • Maria Armenta • Vanesa M Arostegui • Nelvy Badillo • Shane M Balcom • Emily M Bardwell • Warren M Barreiro • Laura A Beehler • Alondra E Bender-Rubio • Gerardo N Berumen • Mckenzie E Biddick • Chelsea C Blodgett • Joseph W Blodgett • Jaylynn F Bossert • Alyssa M Brandt • Krystal M Bravo • Maranda K Bredwell • Sarah V Brewer • Modesta M Britten • Kolbie M Brunson • Tina M Bueno • Mechelle A Busey • John Campos • Maria D Campos • Alberto Castaneda • Sarah N Champoux • Erick J Chavez • Johnny Chavez • Minji Choi • Ethan K Christensen • David J Church • Mikayla G Combs • Juan C Contreras • Riley B Corbin • Jacqueline L Cornwell • Brittney B Corral • Jazmine N Correa • Kaylin B Cortez • Andrea L Cox • Magdalynn M Cox • Nathaniel J Crites • Evelyn Cruz • Joshua Cruz • Otto R Cruz • Leslye N Cuevas • Caila A Dahl • Tyler-Ann M Darling • Allison M Davis • Carly S Davis • Dylan W Deblasio • Emma K Deblasio • Jaymin M Deruyter • Alexis R Devore • Alvaro R Diaz • Keila Y Diaz • Valerie M Diaz • Inez Z Dominguez • Molly C Dowdy • Yeraldin P Enriquez • Yoselin P Enriquez • Narsed Estevez-Manzano • Deborah J Etheridge • Tirzah R Fassett • Allison A Fay • Edgar Fernandez • Leslie A Fernandez • Shaye S Fetzer • Mason M Foutz • Faith A Francis • Kira N Frieske • Travis W Frymier • Rebecca P Fuchs • Steven A Fullerton • Celeste O Galvan • Mayra K Galvan • Danielle D Garcia • Magda J Garcia • Morgan R Gardner • Diego Garza • Evan M Garza • Ezequiel Garza • Josh R Gasseling • Emily M Geer • Tiffaney Gilliland • Emily R Glover • Anadelia E Gonzales • Nicole M Gonzales • Amy M Gonzalez • Daisy A Gonzalez • Estephany J Gonzalez • Jesus Gonzalez • Rebeca Gonzalez • Esmer Gonzalez-Armenta • December J Gordon • Rebecca A Grealy • Logan A Gress • Valeria I Gudino • Britnee M Guerrero • Erikah M Guillen • Erika Gutierrez • Kenneth V Gutierrez • Selene Gutierrez • Carr Gutierrez-Simpson • Colton R Harris • Grace L Harris • Charlotte I Hartwig • Samantha G Hein • Abraham Hernandez • Fernando R Hernandez • Rogelio Herrera • Xitlali Herrera • Viviana Herrera-Salas • Heather A Hinze • Luke T Holmes • Olivia M Holmes • Christopher M Hoptowit • Alyssa M Hovenkotter • Miranda F Hudgens • Tyler T Hunsaker • Damon J Hurst • Dane R Hyatt • Kashara S Hyder • Syrina M Ibarra • Victoria I Ibarra • Jamie R Isaacson • Sarah J Jackson • Elijah R Jasso • Tia D Jensen • Alondra Jimenez • Yomara Jimenez • Yovana Jimenez • Lucas G Jochen • Moriah R Jochen • Aimee M Joiner • Cora G Jongeward • Jesus Juarez • Itzel Y Justo • Harleen Kaur • Joshua J Kehoe • Hunter K Kellogg • Pasha R Kerch • Brenna K Keys • Savanna K Kresse • Mckenna J Kupp • Jordan T Lamay • Maria Del C Lang • Daisy Leon • Cotton J Long • Daisy Lopez • Jalisa A Lopez • Kayla Lopez • Itzel Lujan • Reina M Luna • Alexander W Mackinnon • Alma R Madrigal • Nandy F Madrigal • Kelsy A Maloney • Emanuel Manzo • Brenda Marin-Perez • Garret B Martinez • Jose Martinez • Taylor N Mathews • Jennifer M Matthews • Maxwell J Mcguire • Alisha L Mcneil • Nicholas A Mejia • Yoselin R Mendez • Brixaida J Mendoza • Elizabeth A Mendoza • Guadalupe Mendoza • Julianne V Mendoza • Lesly Mercado-Sanchez • Grace T Meza • Mary C Montes • Brenna May Morton • Matthew J Mulvaney • Jessica Munguia • Angela E Munoz • Abrag N Nassar • Joselin A Navarrete • Tony M Nedeff • Jose M Negrete • Karl A Negrete • Daisy A Nelson • Sophia S Newgard • Casey T Obrien • Faviola Ochoa • Hilda M Ochoa • Arlene M Olea • Megan E Oliva • Yerenia E Oliveros • Amariah Osborn • Connor E Osborne • Fay Packard • Felicity A Padilla • Liliana Padilla • Micayla B Parker • Tanner L Parker • Alejandro Pasaye • Larissa-Mari A Pauza • Artemio Paz • Maria Paz • Starrla K Pearson • Erick Perez • Brittany N Peterson • Sadee Peterson • Jennifer K Pineda • Jordon E Pope • Mary C Powers • Victoria A Prather • Isaac R Pulido • Cesar Ramirez • Herminia Ramirez • Venecia Ramirez • Briceida N Ramos • Guadalupe Ramos • Trina R Randall • Irene C Rangel • Susan M Rasband • Nicole M Rasmussen • Nikolai O Raymond • Kyla R Reyes • Ian C Rice • Ariel L Rickey • Cecilia Rincon-Europa • Rosa G Rios • Ainsley P Roberts • Juan C Rocha • Amiah L Rodriguez • Guadalupe Rodriguez • Joe Rodriguez III • Lilibet S Rodriguez • Lizbeth H Rodriguez • Monica Rodriguez • Jamis Rojas • Jessie A Romero • Chelsea L Rowley • Elsamar Ruiz • Mayra A Ruiz • Danessa F Sadler • Ibthaj S Saed • Bayan R Saied • Olivia Salazar • Ivett Sanchez • Yisel L Sanchez-Cruz • Maricela Santana • Trevor M Savage • Robert D Schreiber • Racheal L Schwindt • Maria S Sedano • Juan J Serrano • Brookelle E Shakespear • Kelsie M Sheehan • Charles E Shepherd • Roman A Sifuentes • Saul Silva • Sky L Silva • Jashaun M Simon • Ryandeep Singh • Matthew C Smiley • Larson D Smith • Nicole R Smith • Amanda K Stoothoff • Ioanna I Sugarman • Jessica M Sullivan • Monica E Swan • Andrea M Swanson • Joshua Swynenburg • Guadalupe Tellez • Justin L Theobald • Madeleine G Thompson • Vanessa V Thompson • Betty A Thurman • David Torres • Victoria M Torrico • Karissa A Trinidad • Peter E Troianello • Stephanie N Uribe • Victoria I Urrutia • Mayra S Valencia • Sara B Van Corbach • Antonio Vargas • Daniel L Vargas • Jasmin I Vargas • Vanessa K Vasquez • Teresita Vega • Eduardo J Vicente • Karen I Villanueva • Jennifer B Villegas • Halee N Volland • Prestan T Walker • Hannah M Ward • Dalise E Weddle • Dalton C Whelan • Hannah S Whitmer • Andrew M Whittaker • Emily R Wilkins • Kyle W Wilkinson • Eric Willey • Sharon M Williams • Olivia M Wilson • Benjamin P Wyatt • Aidan M Yolo • Shayla L Zerr • Ellie M Alexander • Mariana Alvarez • Mohsen A Asadalla • Nicholas A Bachmeier • Andrea B Barcenas • Jessica J Benavides • Brenna S Black • Eric Camacho • Josh Carrasco • Aundrea S Clark • Iridi Clemente-Garibay • Kassandra M Correa • Taylor N Daniel • Millea M Deangelo • Andrea Diaz • Madison J Diener • Hailey A Distler • Taylor S Foley • Brenda Y Frias • Bruce Gaitor • Alexandra Garcia • Diana A Godinez • Case J Graf • Blandy Gutierrez • Alexandra Hernandez • Emalie R Islas-Wallin •
7 Yakima Valley College
Cora M Johnson • Kellie R Ketchum • Araceli Macias • Vanessa K Madrigal • Tomas E Mariscal • Isabel K Martian • Gerardo A Martinez • Sean A Moore • Oscar M Morales • Guadalupe Myers • Jr Enrique Ortiz • Alixsa E Ozuna-Sanchez • Jocelyn Palomares • Juan C Ramos • Hannah B Riel • Geneiva L Rojas • Taylor M Russell • Adriaanna M Sanchez • Tygh B Schuster • Emily S Seaman • Stephanie A.I. Sharaf • Jason W Shelton • Emily L Smith • Evan L Stjohn • Alison T Stump • Denia S Trujillo • Aaron M Valadez • Esgar Valencia • Alicia B Valle • Janet V Vargas • Ethan T Villarreal • Lacy A Wentz • Destiny M Zavala ASSOCIATE IN BUSINESS-DTA: Desiree R Aguilar • Chad R Anderson • Dora E Bravo • Sasha E Campbell • Donald A Darnell • Deanna Gutierrez • Hannah M Hagemeier • Anju Jason • Cameron T Larimer • Christian A Ramos • Jace D Simmons • Graciela Vera • Guadalupe E Alcala • Skylar G Brewer • Stephanie Campos • Susana Cardenas • Ernesto R Mendoza • James W Simmons • Mikayla E Stone • Ana C Aburto • Jennifer L Ault • Miriam Castro • Caleb K Cruz • Edwin E Duran • Allyson T Eglin • Chrystin R Firestone • Carmen M Gonzales • Adriana Gonzalez • Leanna A Huitron • Hongyoon Jang • Cotton J Long • Rosana E Lopez • Maria R Martinez • Brittany L Mccardle • Lionel Moran • Piper C Peltier • Ubaldo Pena • Logan M Shepherd • Coleman D Shogren • Adriana S Trujillo • Davina I Trujillo • James S Vera • Madison J Wehunt • Jessica Alcaide • Omar G Arroyo • Crystal S Martinez • Johnatan S Rivera • Lupe Serrano-Jr • Abigail Vasquez-Garcia ASSOCIATE IN GENERAL STUDIES: Jesse W Conner • Lynn J Olson • Danny Ortiz • David A Vandyke • Maria M Verduzco • Brandon D Cureton • Erica M Jones • Rosa I Ortiz • Jasmine J Ramirez • Lisa K Wick • Amanda S Hoy • April L Mcneil • Liliana Roman • Jennifer Ramirez • Freddie Sanchez ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE: Jeremy J Aguirre • Shania D Carlisle • Katherine E Cousins • Brayley J Fleetwood • David E Godinez • Grace L Harris • Natalie Q Hernandez • Nicholas J Johnson • Kevin L Mannin • Amanda M Murphy • Debrianna J Quenzer • Krystin Scribner • Hailey N Torres • Jose Zuniga • Oscar Carrillo • Jacob P Clark • Timothy J Fletcher • Leif J Harfst • Jose M Jaime • Molly J Sevigny • Ryan M Tillett • Erik A Castillo
ASSOCIATE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE-DTA: Stephanie B Beagle • David A Zarate CERTIFICATE IN MACHINING TECHNOLOGY: Ciro D Demarco • Saul Castaneda CERTIFICATE IN COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY: Brooke H Graff • Bethany A Kissler • Samantha R Santos • Maria I Sauceda • Antonio Dominovic • Yesenia Garcia • Benjamin G Kamau • Tony O Lopez • Brandon M Lugo • Sarai Ochoa • Brian Orozco • Rebecca M Richey • Sydney L Tollackson • Itzel Uribe • Kayla M Vance • Nathan J Wallace • Shawn M Walruff • Emilee G Ward • Janine M Wohl • Cruz G Zubieta CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS
MARKETING: Alejandra L Alcala • Sierra A Rusk • Marcelina Sanchez CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY: Norma J Fernandez • Aracelie Ledesma • Benita M Tapia • Raymie J Dyches • Anna M Vance • Christina E Carefoot CERTIFICATE IN COMPUTER AIDED DRAFTING (CAD): Craig R Johnston • Ciro D Demarco CERTIFICATE IN CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION: Vanessa Y De La Cruz • Allan Locia-Lorenzo • Laura Chavez-Cervantes • Esteban G Gallardo • Joshua L Lowe • David E Maldonado • Jasmine Medrano • Miranda C Miller • Lukas P Pechtel • Justin M Ryan • Raquel Shook • Alejandra V Ochoa • Betina Sanchez CERTIFICATE IN DENTAL ASSISTING: Elsa E Mora • Baca Miguel A Flores • Sonia Guadarrama • Janeth Barragan • Cheyanne J Berkes • Tiffany P Carreto • Yanerie Flores • Alexandra Hernandez • Yesenia Luna-Rosales • Yaricxa N Mendoza • Melanie L Merrill • Wendy R Nunez • Juan A Palacios • Madeline M Reyes • Biviana Rivera • Jessica D Schmitt • Cristina Tapia • Cristopher Zavala CERTIFICATE IN ENGINEERING
TECHNOLOGY: Craig R Johnston • Juan M Mercado • Scott P Petersen CERTIFICATE IN MEDICAL INTERPRETER: Tracey G Chavez • Alejandra Martinez • Alejandra M Moore • Daisy Silva • Ruben G Tovar • Cortes Jose A Silva CERTIFICATE IN PHLEBOTOMY: Monica Arellano • Jackeline Barba • Griselda Bejarano • Jasmine J Borges • Lizbeth Bran • Guadalupe Camarena • Alexandra Causor • Jazzmine D Cruz • Michael S Dohrman • Brianda Galarza • Maribel Guizar-Magana • Jessica J Huerta • Esmeralda Lozano • Jaclyn M Meek • Elena Mesina • Kristen F Moore • Brenda E Nateras • Anahi M Rodriguez • Jesusita M Stout • Kassandra R Vialon • Amber D Zavala CERTIFICATE IN RETAIL MANAGEMENT: Howard E Rescorla III • Marcelina Sanchez
CERTIFICATE IN MEDICAL BILLING & CODING: Charity L Shirley • Annette M Casey • Rosa I Flores • Erin E Hancock • Kaylee A Swan • Juan M Cordova • Tyler J Nelson • Michelle A Stultz CERTIFICIATE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SPECIALIZATION-SCHOOL AGE: Laura L Bendall • Elvira Sanchez CERTIFICATE IN PHARMACY TECHNICIAN: Brittany R Schoch CERTIFICATE IN STATE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION: Cristina P Alcala • Sulema Cruz • Rosa E Gonzalez CERTIFICATE IN STATE INITIAL EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION: Brenda L Eck • Brittani J Glaspey • Maria H Huizar • Manuel A Muro • Natividad Olivera • Darcee E Paredes • Enriqueta Rafaela • Maria E Sanchez • Toni A Sandoval • Kathryn L Temple • Gabriela R Tinajero • Rachel V Allen • Jeannie M Alvarez • Gabriela Amezcua • Nancy Ballardo • Mary N Cervantes • Karla A Garcia • Denise Godinez • Alondra Lucatero • Ceceilia A Munguia • Raul Nava • Alyssa A Saiz • Nayra Santos • Nancy X Soloya • Adriana M Arias • Donna L Spicer • Rosa E Gonzalez
CERTIFICATE IN STATE SHORT EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SPECIALIZATION - INFANT/TODDLER: Evertina M Brito • Anayeli Mendoza • Cynthia R Sneed • Paola Zamudio • Alma R Islas • Natividad Olivera • Enriqueta Rafaela • Noemi Valencia • Rosa C Carrillo • Rosa E Gonzlez CERTIFICATE IN STATE SHORT EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SPECIALIZATION: ADMINISTRATION: Brenda L Eck • Rosa E Gonzalez CERTIFICATE IN STATE SHORT EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SPECIALIZATION - GENERAL: Brittani J Glaspey • Erlinda M Gonzalez • Lucia Gonzalez • Darcee E Paredes • Gabriela R Tinajero • Maria Rodriguez • Rosa E Gonzalez CERTIFICATE IN TREE FRUIT PRODUCTION: Domingo R Martinez • Kevin R Cassidy • Cole J Derrey Spring 2018 8
COMMENCEMENT AWARDS
Distinguished Alumnus Award Terry Abeyta
Terry Abeyta was born and raised in Yakima, WA. He attended Yakima Valley College from 1969-1971 where he says he received some of the best instruction of his educational career. At Whitman, he graduated at the top of his class with a 4.0 GPA, summa cum laude, was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and received honors in political science. He later attended the University of Washington Law School. After law school, he worked for two years for a law firm in the Seattle area, where he was drawn to litigation. Terry moved back to his hometown in 1978 to practice law and raise a family. He practiced two years with a firm before going into solo practice in 1981. He hired Rod Nelson a year later. They recently celebrated 36 years of practice together as Abeyta Nelson Injury Law. Terry has limited his practice to personal injury cases since 1985.
Distinguished Service Award BORArchitecture
From top, left to right: Dave Carson, Scott Kunnanz, Allen Opfer, Matt Reed, Wes Edwards, Jim Castino, Jennifer Maher, Russell Thomas, Jacquie Pembroke, Molly Breymeyer, and Sheri Brockway.
BORA is being recognized for its significant contributions to help reshape and expand YVC’s campuses. As one of the leading architecture firms in Central Washington, BORA has a wide range of experience providing both new construction and major renovations. BORA is deeply rooted in the Yakima Valley and is committed to providing architectural services that enhance the local area. Their work at YVC is evidence of this commitment to community. Several members of the BORA team attended YVC before advancing to architecture school and have found extra satisfaction returning to enhance campus as accomplished professionals. BORA has helped YVC develop campus building standards that include a palette of economical and energy efficient building materials and systems. Budget management plays a key role in their work. They are committed to providing the most value possible within the funds available, taking care to honor the spending priorities established by YVC for every project.
Faculty Emeritus Award Duane Reed
A long-standing instructor in the Arts and Sciences division, Duane Reed taught English courses for 15 years before his retirement in 2015. He has continued to teach part-time. Reed was born and raised in the Yakima Valley. After graduating from high school, he attended YVC for two years before enlisting in United States Army. When his service ended, he spent a short time working in retail before beginning work as a professional photographer. He soon had the opportunity to teach photography part-time at YVC with the late Herb Blisard. It was during this period that Reed realized he wanted a career in teaching. In 1989, he decided to return to school and majored in English literature. While working on his graduate degree, he was hired to teach full-time for two years at Grays Harbor College. After earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Central Washington University, he taught four years full-time at Columbia Basin College. In 2000, he returned to Yakima and began teaching full-time at YVC. 9 Yakima Valley College
Sherrie & Daryl Parker Faculty Award Dr. Kelley Denome
Dr. Kelley Denome is an instructor in the Workforce Education Division, teaching courses in Veterinary Technology. Growing up near Spokane, WA Kelley always dreamed of being a veterinarian. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in veterinary science in 1993 and with a doctor of veterinary medicine in 1996 from Washington State University. Originally not considering a career in education, Denome worked as a mixed and small animal veterinarian before moving to Yakima with her husband. She was encouraged to consider teaching by technicians with whom she worked at clinics. With support of these co-workers, she decided to give it a try. She began teaching at YVC in 1999. A dedicated instructor, Kelley spends countless hours with both students and animals, educating students while ensuring the animals’ needs are met. In addition to this award, she was a recipient of the Robert M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching Award in 2011.
Robert M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching Award Rajkumar Raj
An instructor in the Workforce Education Division, Rajkumar Raj teaches courses for the college’s Engineering program and the operations management course for the bachelor of applied science in business management program. Raj was born in Madurai, India. Following high school he earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from India’s National Institute of Technology. In 1995 he moved to the United States to attend graduate school. He graduated in 1997 with a master’s in industrial engineering from State University of New York, Binghamton. He spent the next several years working for Flextronics in the San Francisco area. In 2005, Raj moved from California to Yakima with his family. When an opportunity arose to tutor YVC engineering students, Raj accepted the position. When a faculty position in the Engineering department opened in 2007, Raj joined the faculty at YVC.
Darlene Koch Classified Employee of the Year Award Rebecca Cikauskas
Rebecca Cikauskas is a Program Assistant for the Workforce Education Division’s Nursing program. Rebecca was born in Ephrata, WA and lived in Ellensburg before her family settled in Selah. She graduated from high school in 1986 and enlisted in the United States Navy. In 1988, when she became pregnant with her first daughter, Cikauskas was granted an honorable discharge. The next several years brought three more daughters and Rebecca decided to stay at home and care for her family. In 2002, she chose to return to school and began taking courses at YVC. She earned an associate of applied science degree in general information technology and an associate of applied science degree in network administration. In 2004, she was hired to work in YVC’s Nursing program. Her various duties include class scheduling, technical support for classes, equipment support, advising nursing students, community outreach, club advising, and instructor support. Spring 2018 10
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Vineyard & Winery Technology Wine Awards Yakima Valley Vintners (YVV), YVC’s teaching winery, submitted four wines and received four awards at the 2018 Seattle Wine Competition in May. In June they submitted entries in the 35th annual Washington State Wine Competition. Students completing course work in YVC’s Vineyard & Winery Technology program produced the award-winning wines submitted by YVV. YVC student wines were included with all of the other commercial wineries during each competition. At Yakima Valley Vintners Award-Winning Wines the Seattle Wine Awards YVC’s 2017 Textbook White Gewürztraminer received a double gold medal along with the 2015 Intern Tempranillo. The 2014 Primitivo and 2014 Science Fair Carménére each garnered gold medals. At the Washington State Wine Competition YVC’s 2015 Midterm Merlot, 2017 History Class Pinot Gris, and 2015 Dean’s List Primitivo all earned gold medals, while the 2017 Study Skills Chardonnay, 2015 Semester Abroad Sangiovese garnered silver medals. Finally bronze medals were awarded to the 2015 Campus Blend Red Wine and 2015 Graduates Last Hyrah Syrah. This brings total awards earned by Yakima Valley Vintners to 115.
BAS in Teacher Education Enrollment YVC’s first cohort of bachelor of applied science in teacher education students will begin their coursework in the fall of 2018. The new program has already seen a huge response with 17 students accepted for the initial class and an additional 10 with conditional acceptance and seven who are on the wait-list. Additional students have already expressed interest to join the 2019 cohort. The program prepares teacher candidates with content and subject knowledge required in Pre K-8 classrooms. Graduates will be prepared to be immediately effective first-year teachers who can help each learner meet or exceed grade-level expectations. Candidates may earn endorsements in Elementary Education (K-8), Early Childhood Education (P-3) and/or English Language Learners (K-12). “We are excited to be opening this fall. The community and partner response has been wonderful! We are fortunate to be position to offer this pathway to teacher certification,” stated Education Instructor Melissa Matczak.
Criminal Justice Offers New DTA YVC’s Criminal Justice program is excited to offer students a new degree. The associate of applied science – transfer in criminal justice direct transfer agreement (AAS-T in CJ) will be available beginning fall 2018. The new path allows students to focus on criminal justice courses while preparing to transfer and earn a bachelor’s degree. Heritage University and YVC’s bachelor of applied science in business management program honor the new degree. Students take 37-40 credits of their degree in CJ courses and, upon completion, have the option of transferring immediately or going into the workforce and re-enrolling at a later date. 11 Yakima Valley College
Officer Mendoza of Yakima County Department of Corrections; Mendoza is an Alumnus of YVC’s Criminal Justice program.
CAMPUS NEWS
Holly Cousens Travels to South Korea In May, Business Technology Instructor Holly Cousens traveled to South Korea for a week of cross-cultural exchange, as part of her work as a Yakima City Councilwoman. Her primary goal was to investigate the possibility of a sister city partnership with Hadong County, but Cousens used the opportunity to also spread word of YVC’s International Student program, which currently hosts two South Korean students. Cousens handed out YVC-branded pens and stickers, and leaflets directing students to YVC’s YouTube channel, where they could view video interviews of current YVC
Holly Cousens with ushers at the Green Tea Festival in Hadong County, South Korea
South Korean international students in both English and Korean.
Information Technology Offers New Computer Science DTA Beginning Spring Quarter 2018, YVC’s Information Technology program began offering students the opportunity to earn a new associate in computer science direct transfer agreement (DTA). This pathway provides students with a solid foundation, preparing them for competitive computer science programs at universities in the state of Washington. The new degree is designed to help meet the local need for qualified programmers; currently there are more jobs for software developers than there are computer science graduates. The associate in computer science DTA is the newest direct transfer agreement between the state’s community/technical college system and universities. “It is exciting for me to see this come to fruition and celebrate our first Computer Science (CS) degree recipients at this year’s commencement,” stated Information Technology Instructor Stefan Apperson. “Nationally there are 40,000 CS bachelor’s degrees projected to be earned through 2020 and over 140,000 job openings that will need to be filled,” he concluded.
AST Students Attend SkillsUSA National Competition Six students from YVC’s Automotive Service Technology program recently participated in the SkillsUSA State Competition, with three students continuing on to nationals. SkillsUSA is an applied method of instruction for preparing America’s high performance workers in public career and technical programs. Students Michael St. Hilaire, Spencer Ramos, and Shane Merrill earned gold medals in the categories of Automotive Skills, Job Demo B and Job Demo A respectively and the opportunity to compete at the National Competition in Louisville,
From left: Instructor Murray Ruggles, Students Michael St. Hilaire, Shane Merrill, Spencer Ramos, and Instructor Bob Olson.
Kentucky. Spring 2018 12
SCHOLARSHIPS
Foundation Award Ceremony In May the YVC Foundation hosted their 21st Annual Scholarship Award Ceremony, setting the Foundation’s all-time record by providing over $665,500 in scholarships. In all, 227 students received scholarship awards, with an average of $3,000 for most students. Today the net worth of the Foundation is in excess of $12,000,000. In 2017 the Foundation celebrated its 40th anniversary. YVC Foundation Scholarship Award Ceremony
Vintiques Car Club Scholarship Presentation
Vintiques Club Automotive Scholarship YVC Automotive Services Technology student Michael St. Hilaire was recently selected to receive the 2018 Vintiques of Yakima Car Club Scholarship. The $500 unrestricted scholarship is awarded to a student who has an interest in or who is pursuing a career in the automotive industry. Special consideration for the award was given to YVC students due to their support and volunteer work during the 2017 NW Nationals. St. Hilaire was presented with his scholarship during the program’s End of the Year BBQ & Car Show in June.
Rotary Vocational Scholarship This spring the Rotary Club of Yakima awarded vocational scholarships to students pursuing college degrees during the 2018-2019 academic year. Award amounts totaling $1,630 each were presented to 23 students. Vocational scholarships were received by the following YVC students: Omar Alegria-Soto, Natali Amador, Samantha Belton, Coby Boyd, Rommel Castro, Kelsie Clawson, Kaylee Greene, Kylie Helms, Heather Killion, Kyle Pettit, Artermio Ramos-Ramirez, Amber Tupy, and Jonny Zuniga Romero.
Early Achievers Grant YVC’s Early Achievers Grant delivered scholarship awards during the 2017-2018 academic year to 64 students. Provided by the Washington Department of Early Learning this scholarship opportunity is available to students employed at an Early Achievers facility. “Over the 2017-2018 academic year the Early Achievers Grant has helped by providing tuition, book funding and personal support. During this time these students have earned a combined total of 75 certificates and five associates degrees,” stated Early Achievers Grant Coordinator Denise Paikuli.
Beyond Dreaming Scholarship In June YVC awarded Beyond Dreaming Scholarships during a special ceremony. These scholarship awards provide support to DREAMer (undocumented) students with educational expenses while attending YVC. This scholarship, now in its third year, provides much needed financial support to students who are not eligible for other awards due to their immigration status. Award amounts totaling $1,086 each were presented to 48 students. Beyond Dreaming Scholarship Recipients 13 Yakima Valley College
CELEBRATING SUCCESS
Clockwise from top left: Dr. Matthew Loeser and Kathy Ashworth, John Mertell, Beverly Pfieffer Shares a Laugh, Becky Scott, Larry Johnston, Rhonda Taylor, Susan Perrault, and Glenda Orgill
Employee Recognition Ceremony Each year YVC celebrates the outstanding service of faculty and staff during the annual Employee Recognition Ceremony held in May. During this special event retirees are honored and given a farewell for their many years of service to the college. In addition, employees are recognized for their years of service.
Honoring Retirees Kathy Ashworth, Chemistry Instructor September 1983-September 2017
Glenda Orgill, Education Instructor September 1998-June 2018
George Hays, Custodian I October 2001-February 2018
Susan Perrault, Counselor February 2006-September 2017
Larry Johnston, Stockroom Attendant II August 2008-June 2018
Beverly Pfieffer, Fiscal Technician III May 1988-June 2018
Patti Koluda, Business Technology Instructor July 1983-August 2018
Sandra Schroeder, English Instructor June 1998-September 2017
Debra Masson, Program Assistant December 2014-August 2018
Becky Scott, Basic Skills Instructor October 1984-September 2017
Michael Melton, Program Assistant September 2006-June 2018
Wallace Strong, Ethnic Studies Instructor March 1998-September 2018
John Mertell, Maintenance Mechanic II January 1979-June 2018
Rhonda Taylor, Nursing Program Coordinator September 1993-September 2018
Spring 2018 14
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
From left: Poet Raúl Sanchez; Artist Toma Villa; Violinist Swil Kanim Poses with YVC Alumna Vanessa Archer
Diversity Series YVC’s 2017-2018 Diversity Series, The Ground We Stand, concluded this spring with four events. The year-long series provided several opportunities for students and staff to learn more about the Native American experience and culture through art, poetry, music, dance, lecture, and dialogue. In April, poet Raúl Sánchez held workshops and poetry readings on both the Yakima and Grandview campuses. Sánchez is a poetry teacher at Evergreen High School. Later in the month, YVC hosted artist Toma Villa for a lecture and live painting demonstrations. Over the course of four days, Villa helped YVC students and staff create a three-panel painting that is now on view in the counseling center on the Yakima Campus. In May, violinist Swil Kanim performed and provided a keynote address. A U.S. Army veteran, classically trained violinist, native storyteller and actor, Kanim is a member of the Lummi Nation. Because of his unique ability to inspire audiences to express themselves honorably, he is a sought-after keynote speaker. The series wrapped up with photojournalist Matika Wilbur. In addition to the workshop held on campus, Wilbur also had a keynote address and reception with a viewing of her work at the Seasons Performance Hall. Wilbur, a visual storyteller from the Swinomish and Tulalip peoples of coastal Washington, has spent the past five years traveling and photographing tribal lands. “The 2017-2018 Diversity Series set out to explore the idea of The Ground We Stand,” stated Counselor Maribel Jimenez. “The theme for the year revolved around awareness, alliance, and action in terms of understanding the ancestral homelands of the Yakama Nation. The Diversity Series wanted to honor the Yakama Nation and the roots of Indigenous people,” she continued.
Department of Visual Arts Student Faculty Exhibition During the month of May, the Larson Gallery held the Department of Visual Arts Student and Faculty Exhibition. More commonly known as DoVA, this exhibit featured the work of students from spring, summer and fall quarters of 2017 and winter 2018. Classes include ceramics, painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, and design. A large selection of the students’ best work makes this one of the favorite exhibitions of the year and a wonderful opportunity to purchase art. In addition to the student artwork, each instructor shows the creativity of their own personal work. The classes YVC’s visual arts program are held in Palmer-Martin Hall. The clay program, taught by Instructor Rachel Dorn, incorporates hand building and instruction in using a potter’s wheel, with her students providing the three-dimensional work in the show. Drawing and printmaking are taught by Daisy Look Ahead by Herminia Ramirez John Bissonette, along with Adjunct Instructor Meghan Flynn. The faculty work shown in this exhibit included Drawing Instructor Bruce Lindell and Photography and Digital Design Instructor Chris Otten. A total of 116 pieces of work were installed, with $850 in cash awards and gift certificates presented. “As a member of art faculty, I enjoy finding out the different projects each of my colleagues pursues, and how diverse the approaches are by the students,” stated Larson Gallery Director David Lynx. 15 Yakima Valley College
Herodotus – Gedosch Awarded to Jocelyn Palomares Congratulations to YVC Student Jocelyn Palomares, who recently received the 2017-2018 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, to recognize exceptional history students. Palomares received books that are tailored to her personal interests. Her name will also be included on the perpetual plaque that hangs in Glenn Anthon Hall. After graduation, Palomares plans to transfer to Central Washington University where she will study criminal justice.
Ken Zontek, Jocelyn Palomares, and Monty Walker
Spring Fling ASYVC hosted their annual Spring Fling in May. The yearly event provides students the opportunity to have fun and celebrate and learn about the different clubs and student organizations available to them on campus. Students were able to ride a mechanical bull, climb a rock wall, compete in an inflatable obstacle course, joust with a friend, or dunk their favorite faculty in the dunk tank.
Student Residence Center Hosts Paint Night YVC’s Student Residence Center is always looking for opportunities to engage residents and provide them with activities to keep them connected with other tenants. Activities include study groups, movie nights, cooking classes, crafts, bbq’s and game nights. Spring quarter brought the introduction of watercolor painting nights, which proved very successful. “For the past few weeks, we added watercolor activities to a combination of evening and weekend nights,” stated Program Assistant Ilda Parra. “We were pleasantly surprised when we had long-time residents as first-time participants in this activity! As we analyze this more, we realize that allowing time to be creative is beneficial. It may relieve stress, reduce anxiety and offer relief to those overtested, over-quizzed brains,” she concluded.
Spring Fling
Student Resident Mason Shaw during Paint Night
Jazz Show YVC’s Music program hosted a lively night of upbeat jazz in May, as Music Instructor Jeff Norwood orchestrated the 2018 Jazz Showcase. Several ensembles took the stage, including the Faculty Quintet, the Community Combo, and the Sax-OBone Quartet, which featured students playing trombone, and soprano, alto, and tenor saxophone. Some of the musical selections stretched far back in the American jazz Saxophonists Eli Gomez & Luis Vargas in the Jazz Showcase catalogue,all the way to the jump blues of Duke Ellington. In addressing the crowd, Norwood praised the students’ dedication to their craft. “The Sax-O-Bone Quartet was an all student ensemble, an example of how we custom tailor ensembles around the students who enroll,” said Norwood. “I really pushed them with some challenging material and was proud of how they all stepped up.” Spring 2018 16
ATHLETICS
Men’s Baseball A remarkable run of excellence continued for the YVC Baseball team this season, as the team finished in first place in the East Region of the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC) with a record of 25 wins and just seven losses. Their season ended with a second place finish in the NWAC championships. Head Baseball Coach Kyle Krustangel 2017-2018 Men’s Baseball Team, the“Bleach Boys” credits the team’s success to a combination of talent and team spirit. “This was one of the closest groups of guys that we’ve had,” Krustangel said. “They were like a band of brothers. It makes it really enjoyable to be there as a coach and teacher when the guys are that close.” The camaraderie led to a striking development mid-season, as the players took to dying their hair platinum blonde as a show of team unity, dubbing themselves the “Bleach Boys.” While the season ended just a few runs shy of another championship banner, Krustangel believes the his program can sustain its success, saying: “We’re fired up, after three years we have our culture in place, we return most of our pitching staff, and we’ve signed the best incoming class that this coaching staff has put together.” The team’s play has drawn the attention of college scouts, with fourteen players from this year’s squad having now signed letters of intent to play at four-year institutions.
Athletes of the Year In June at an awards ceremony honoring YVC athletics and student government, two sophomores walked away with athlete of the year awards. Both student athletes demonstrated excellence in competition and in the classroom. Carly Davis took home the Mary Sherar Award as female athlete of the year. The Carly Davis volleyball star was a defensive stalwart, leading the NWAC in total digs with 830, and three times earning the NWAC Defensive Player of the Week honor. Davis’ digs total was so astounding, it nearly doubled the second highest total on the team’s digs list. Davis also was named the Under Armour NWAC Volleyball Player of the Week. Davis was also a regular contributor to the YVC Women’s Basketball team. The Larry Densley Award for the YVC male Johnny Sage athlete of the year went to outfielder Johnny Sage, who not only hit .386 for the Men’s Baseball team, but who also has earned a selection to the Dean’s List each quarter he has attended YVC, with a cumulative GPA of 3.73. Sage’s exploits on the baseball diamond brought him multiple individual honors, as he was named the NWAC’s Most Valuable Baseball Player, and the MVP of the East Region. 17 Yakima Valley College
Women’s Softball With a focus on hard work and skill development, the YVC Softball team completed its season on a high note, defeating five of the eight teams in the highly competitive East Region. Emilee Jones played first base and was an offensive star, winning the team’s “triple crown” by leading the squad in batting average, home runs, and RBI. Shelby Starkovich also excelled at the plate, hitting an even .300 for the season. Madison Atwood earned the team’s “Hustle Award” and led YVC on the pitching mound, winning seven games while striking out 47 batters in 24 games started. “I am very proud of how the young ladies competed and improved throughout this past season,” says Head Softball Coach Chuck Bodeen. “The character of these young ladies will help them be successful as they move on with their education and their lives.” While the squad finished with a record of 11-34, Bodeen points to eleven incoming freshmen joining four returners next year as reasons for optimism entering the summer.
PEOPLE BTECH Instructor Holly Cousens, along with Engineering Instructor Rajkumar Raj and Office Assistant III Jennifer Townsend, recently volunteered during the Hogs and Dogs event at Owen’s Cycle. The group collaborated with Entrust Community Services event to help raise money. In total, they brought in over $680 to help individuals with disabilities obtain new jobs or return to school to gain new skills. Chicano Studies Instructor Maria Cuevas and Students Diana Luquin-Monroy and Araceli Walle recently attended the 2nd Annual Ethnic Studies Research Symposium held at Oregon State University. Both students presented in panel sessions alongside master’s and doctoral level students. Their papers were the product of an interview they conducted with a woman of Latin American descent. Congratulations to Instructional Classroom Support Technician I Brad Smith on his recent nomination for the 2018 Tourism Ambassador Award from Yakima Valley Tourism. The Associated Students of YVC honored several individuals at this year’s spring recognition event. Awards included: Maria Cuevas, Instructor of the Year; Maribel Jimenez, Advisor of the Year; Marivy Vasquez, Distinguished Service AwardAdmin/Exempt; Roxanne Baca, Distinguished Service AwardClassified; Sky Gray, Student of the Year; Diversity Series, Program of the Year; Transfer Club and Undocumented Students Union, Clubs of the Year. The Grandview Student Council also presented awards to Mark Quinn, Faculty of the Year; Diana Jennings, Staff of the Year; and Nora CisnerosToscano, Student of the Year.
Grape to Glass Gala Congratulations to YVC’s Vineyard and Winery Technology program on another successful Grape to Glass Gala. The event included dinner provided by Tom Douglas Catering. A partnership with YV Tech Culinary program allowed students to work alongside the professional caterer to serve. The event also included music and a silent and live auction. In addition, the table’s centerpieces work from Rachel Dorn’s spring functional pottery class. The proceeds from this event benefit student scholarships. Thanks to the generosity of donors, over $14,000 was raised. “An event of this magnitude is only successful thanks to the many volunteers, donors, sponsors and wonderful attendees,” stated Vineyard and Winery Technology Instructor Trent Ball. “They all see first-hand the impact that their contribution makes to the success of students in the Vineyard and Winery Technology program,” he continued.
Calendar www.yvcc.edu/calendar
July 16-27: 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.
July 19-20: Ocean Scene, Haystack Rock: Oil Paints Participants will learn how to paint the Oregon coast’s famed Haystack Rock using a limited four color palette. The workshop is from 9am to 4pm in the Larson Gallery. The cost is $175.00. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
July 21-22: Sunflower Days: Watercolor Beginning from the dark background that makes this sunflower painting “pop,” to forming leaves with highlighting and painting folds and curves into each petal, this painting will delight you each step of the way! The workshop is from 9am to 4pm in the Larson Gallery. The cost is $150.00. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
August 14: Last Day to Apply for Admission August 14 is the last day to apply for admission for fall quarter 2018 for new full- or part-time students seeking a degree or certificate. For more information visit: www.yvcc.edu
September 24: Fall Quarter Begins YVC classes for fall quarter 2018 begin on September 24. New students must apply for admission prior to August 14. For more information visit: www.yvcc.edu
Spring 2017 4
YAKIMA VA L L E Y COLLEGE
Non-Profit US POSTAGE PAID Yakima, WA Permit #25
PO Box 22520 Yakima, WA 98907-2520
YVC’s Music program provides courses in vocal and instrumental music and on-campus and off-campus performing opportunities.
www.yvcc.edu/music