YAKIMA VALLEY COLLEGE Campus Update, Fall 2017
Board of Trustees: Patrick Baldoz Sara Cate, M.D.
Letter from the President
Neil McClure
Fall quarter is well underway with the
Rosalinda Mendoza Robert Ozuna
fall colors in full array on our Yakima
Produced by:
holidays always make the fall quarter
Jay Frank
seem a bit shorter and more hectic. This
Stefanie Menard
year was no exception.
and Grandview campuses. The three fall
In this issue of Campus Update, we
Contributing Photographers:
focus on some of the ways that we
Jay Frank
have developed partnerships with
Justin Hawkes
local businesses to expand educational
Stefanie Menard
opportunities in our valley. You will read about our collaboration with CubCrafters Published: December 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 www.facebook.com/YakimaValleyCollege
YouTube www.youtube.com/YakimaValleyCC
through providing incumbent worker training in manufacturing skills. Another partnership is our Latino Agriculture Education Program which we offer in collaboration with Wenatchee Valley College. We are also grateful to offer our new entrance to the Grandview Campus. In addition to the increased campus visibility that results from entering on Wine Country Road, we have added some much needed new parking, exterior lighting, and signage. Also in this issue is a snapshot of our annual data. It includes information about our student enrollment, budget, employees and the demographics of our students. Finally, you will read about the many activities and events that our college offers our students and the community, including the Larson Gallery exhibits, plays, athletic events, and our Diversity Series activities. We thank you for your ongoing support of our students and look forward to seeing you at our many college events.
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 5 6 7 8 12 13 15 17
Campus News Program News Larson Gallery Program Highlights Annual Report Athletics Student Activities Undergraduate Research YVC’s People
Cover Photo: From left to right: Lonni RodriguezFunk, YVC Director of WorkFirst Education; Robert Detloff CubCrafters Fabrication Plant Manager; Chris Meras CubCrafters Production Support Manager; Marc Coomer YVC Dean of Basic Skills. Read about how YVC is helping improve the skills of aerospace employees in the Yakima Valley on page 5.
CAMPUS NEWS
Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education
This fall the college was pleased to announce the new bachelor of applied science in teacher education degree – a new teacher preparation program for grades PreK-8. Working in partnership with ESD 105, Yakima Public Schools, the Grandview School District, as well as members of YVC’s Professional Educator Advisory Board, YVC planned this program in response to evidence of a shortage of qualified teachers in Yakima County. This alternative route to the teaching program will provide pathways for individuals with 90 or more college-level credits from a regionally accredited college. This creates opportunities for a wide range of individuals who are already serving in the education field in a variety of capacities, both inside and outside of the classroom. The program aspires to remove barriers and create pathways that systematically build upon the candidates’ previous educational background and past professional experience while supporting candidates who are motivated to teach and stay in their community. YVC’s program will prepare teacher candidates with content and subject knowledge required in PreK-8 classrooms, while integrating an in-depth residency experience. The program will prepare graduates to be immediately effective first-year teachers who help each learner meet or exceed grade-level expectations. Completion of the program will result in the award of the bachelor of applied science in teacher education. Candidates may earn endorsements in Elementary Education (K-8), Early Childhood Education (P-3) and/or English Language Learners (K-12). The first cohort of students, selected during the current 2017-18 academic year, will enroll in teacher education classes beginning fall 2018. Candidates interested in YVC’s teacher education program should contact Interim Director, Dr. Melissa Matczak, at mmatczak@yvcc.edu or 509.574.4997.
Music Lab Remodel
YVC’s Music Program recently received some upgrades to their classroom space in Kendall Hall Auditorium. These changes were necessary to improve the program and bring the space up to YVC classroom standards. Some of these upgrades include updated computer programs, new chairs, an updated complete teacher station, upgraded stateof-the-art sound system as well as a new interactive white board and document camera. These changes have greatly benefited both instructors and students, delivering accessible, Students listen to a lecture given by Music Instructor Steven Slusher in the updated Music Lab during fall quarter. student-centered education. “The first thing that comes to mind is students feel more welcome and comfortable in the space,” stated Music Instructor Steven Slusher. “No one wants to attend class in an outdated classroom, with holes in the wall, stained carpet, and non-functioning technology. Now, with all the technology they need to succeed at their fingertips, professors are able to teach with more support, and the aesthetics to compliment, it is a recipe for success. This lab classroom is now a gem and selling point for YVC and the Music Department,” he continued. 3 Yakima Valley College
A ribbon-cutting concluded the grand opening celebration. Pictured from left to right: Dr. Teresa Holland Rich, YVC Vice-President of Administrative Services; Mike Drollinger; Cus Artega, Grandview City Administrator; Sheri Brockway, Principal at BORArchitecture; Allen Opfer, Principal at BORArchitecture; Norm Childress, Grandview Mayor; Dr. Linda Kaminski, YVC President; Robert Ozuna, YVC Board Member; Terry Drollinger; Mark Drollinger; Grandview Royal Court.
A New Entrance for the Grandview Campus A formal ribbon-cutting November 21st signaled the Grand Opening of the new entrance and expanded parking lot for the Grandview Campus. The $1.75 million addition provides 153 new parking spots, updated landmark signage, and landscaping. The project represented a unique partnership of public and private resources. “Our new entrance provides an outside aesthetic welcoming for our students, staff, and community that reflects Yakima Valley College’s mission as well as core themes of access, success, and community,” stated Dr. Marcia Somer, dean of the Grandview Campus. “I am always excited and smile when driving up to the entrance knowing that we are assisting others to build better futures,” she continued. Grandview Mayor Norm Childress spoke at the rain-soaked, but well attended, ribbon-cutting as local government played a key role in shepherding the project along. Among the private entities that also enabled the project’s completion were the Drollinger family and Gary Christensen. The project was designed by BORArchitecture, PLLC, and constructed by Total Site Services of Richland, Washington.
Vineyard & Winery Technology Partners with Fortuity Cellars YVC’s Vineyard & Winery Technology Program announced its latest partnership utilizing the incubator space on the Grandview Campus this fall. Fortuity Cellars is now partnering with the college to get its first vintage produced. The collaboration allows students in the Vineyard and Winery Technology Program to work alongside local wineries. The college shares equipment and space, which includes destemmer/crusher, pneumatic membrane press, tasting room, outside crush pad, and multi-purpose space. Fortuity Cellars is family-owned by the husband and wife team of Lee Fergestrom and Emily Christensen, and co-run with long-time friend and winemaker Johnny Brose. Established in 2017, it focuses on Rhone and Bordeaux varietals produced in the Yakima Valley. Of the opportunity to partner with YVC, Christensen says, “Lee and I have both spent time working in the tech industry, so we are very familiar with the many benefits of an incubator space. When we heard about YVC’s winery incubator program we jumped at the opportunity to apply. It’s a perfect space for us, allowing us to get to market much quicker than we could have on our own.” Fortuity Cellars joins long-time tenant Mark Wysling of Parejas Cellars. For more information about Yakima Valley Vintners and the Yakima Valley College Vineyard and Winery Technology Program visit www.yvcc.edu/wine or call 509.882.7007.
Fall 2017 4
PROGRAM NEWS
YVC Helps Improve CubCrafters’ Workforce YVC recently collaborated with Impact Washington and CubCrafters to offer professional development training to incumbent workers of the light aircraft manufacturer. Founded in 1980 by Jim Richmond, CubCrafters began by rebuilding and repairing Piper Cubs. Over the next two decades, CubCrafters evolved and began building new airplanes. With revenues growing and an increase in staffing, CubCrafters realized the need for training to improve employee skills and knowledge. They reached out to YVC and the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) about CubCrafters Fabrication Plant starting a program to help improve their employees’ skills. The training focused on the lean manufacturing strategy, which the company uses as their guiding methodology. The partnership included 29 days of training in lean manufacturing as well as administrative lean training to help support the manufacturing team and project management. “The ability to bring in unique education that’s specific to the needs of our manufacturing has been critical,” stated CubCrafters Fabrication Plant Manager Robert Detloff. “The number of people qualified to work in aerospace isn’t found on this side of the mountains, so to have programs over here is a significant help to us as an organization to access that pool of a better skilled employee,” he concluded. The training was made possible by a Job Skills Program (JSP) Grant from the SBCTC. The JSP provides funding to licensed educational institutions in Washington and provides half of the training cost; partner employers provide a cash or in-kind match to fund the other half. In total 115 employees were able to participate in the training. For more information about YVC’s WorkFirst programs visit: www.yvcc.edu/ccc
Latino Agriculture Education Program YVC joined forces several years ago with the WA Winegrowers Association and Wenatchee Valley College to develop the Latino Agriculture Education Program (LAEP) for Viticulture. The program provides students with 190 hours of classroom instruction on how to manage vineyards and grow wine grapes. It combines writing, computer, math, and language skills. Students learn everything from the history of agriculture and viticulture in Washington State to types, structures, and functions of cells, leaves, stems and roots. Students also learn how to manage a vineyard with skills such as thinning grapes, canopy management and soil structure. The program has graduated nearly 350 people since beginning in 2007.
Students in YVC’s LAEP inspect grape vines during the 2016-17 academic year.
“LAEP successfully equips employees to help them reach their full potential,” stated WA Wine Growers Association Board Chair Patrick Rawn. “Employee performance, after completing LAEP, is a night and day difference. Their increased confidence level, enthusiasm, and ‘mission critical’ knowledge base is invaluable to our operation. Graduates of LAEP very quickly become top performers,” he concluded. In 2015, to reach out to female employees, the trio offered LAEP’s first women-only “level one” viticulture course. Due to the course’s success, a follow-up “level two” viticulture course for women was offered. Student Ahide Ledezma found the class very helpful. She stated, “Excellent class! Easy to follow, well explained, and all of the information is applicable right away.” YVC is currently in the process of developing a second LAEP that will provide training in the area of cellar production. It will be offered in the spring of 2018.
5 Yakima Valley College
LARSON GALLERY
Butterfly Assemblage
Namaste
Terra Assemblage
Transitions: The Artwork of Heidi Lewis Coleman The Larson Gallery opened the 2017-18 season with the works of Heidi Lewis Coleman in an exhibition titled Transitions. A Yakima native now living in Connecticut, Coleman studied art at Parsons School of Design and the New York School of Design in New York City. She is a juried member of the National Association of Women Artists, the Women’s Caucus for Art, and the Silvermine Guild of Artists. She is an award-winning artist who has exhibited widely in galleries and museums across the country. Coleman’s artwork reflects an ongoing exploration into the aesthetics of using language in art. For many years, Coleman has developed variations of her abstract calligraphy that she incorporated into symmetrical designs printed on Asian kozo tissue and applied onto stretched canvas. As her work has grown and transitioned, she is now creating mixed media collages, combining fragments of printed tissue onto painted watercolor paper or canvas. The show opening was a huge success, with over 30 pieces sold. In addition, an exhibit brochure was created and given to YVC classes to participate in group tours in the gallery. Former YVC Spanish Instructor Ricardo Chama translated the introduction in the brochure into Spanish. Coleman’s exhibit illustrates the possibilities for a local artist to show work nationally.
Central Washington Artists’ Exhibition This November the Larson Gallery celebrated the opening of the 62nd Annual Central Washington Artists’ Exhibition. The exhibit highlights the current and progressive work produced in our region. The gallery received 223 entries from 91 artists, selecting 78 works for the show. An eclectic mix, it contained several types of media including oil, etching, porcelain, photo, wool, mixed, wood, pastel, fiber, collage, acrylic, ceramic, prisma color, brass, cold wax & oil, linoblock, glass, encaustic, jewelry, sterling silver, and gouache. This year’s juror was Freya Liggett, museum manager at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center. A West Coast native, Sunrise Through the Mist by Matt Morgan Liggett returned to Washington State after five years as the curator and archivist for the Bayside Historical Society in Queens, New York. She holds an undergraduate degree in anthropology from Linfield College and studied Archaeology as a graduate student at Stony Brook University. Liggett specializes in exhibit research and design. She has juried/curated several art exhibits in both New York and Washington. The show presented over $3,620 in awards. For more information about the Larson Gallery, visit www.larsongallery.org Fall 2017 6
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Running Start Alumni Dr. Antonio Lopez-Ibarra YVC’s Running Start (RS) Program has seen considerable growth over the last few years. The program, which provides eligible juniors and seniors the opportunity to attend college classes while in high school, is popular among students who wish to save time and money while working toward their goals. One former student who found success is Dr. Antonio Lopez-Ibarra. Lopez-Ibarra was born in Guasave Sinaloa, Mexico. His family moved to Washington State when he was four years old. During his junior year in high school, Lopez-Ibarra learned about YVC’s RS Program and decided to enroll full-time. “There was a camaraderie among students at YVC. Because of the small class sizes, we were able to talk about different patterns and were able to study at each other houses. These experiences helped me learn how to study for college courses and this foundation has helped me throughout my educational career,” stated Lopez-Ibarra. Dr. Antonio Lopez-Ibarra Following YVC, he continued his education at Brigham Young UniversityIdaho for one year before serving on a Spanish-speaking mission for his church. After this service, he attended the University of Utah before returning to Washington State and being accepted to the University of Washington (UW). In 2014, he graduated from the UW School of Dentistry. At the beginning of this year, he opened his own practice in Kennewick. At Tri-City Dental Care, Lopez-Ibarra focuses on the overall comfort of patients. The unique clinic includes customized massage chairs, aromatherapy, paraffin hand treatment, toys, and video and music streaming. For other students considering RS, Lopez-Ibarra offers this advice, “Do it. It’s going to get you a head start on your college education. It is an incredible opportunity to have two years of tuition-free college. I wouldn’t take anything back,” he concluded. For more information about YVC’s RS Program visit: www.yvcc.edu/runningstart For more information about Dr. Antonio Lopez-Ibarra or Tri-City Dental Care visit: www.tricitydentalcarewa.com
Step Up to College Highlight Kassandra Gaitan YVC’s Step Up to College (SUTC) Program provides opportunities for individuals of high school age (16-20) who have dropped out or are credit deficient the ability to earn their high school diploma. Once admitted to the free program, students can enroll at the YVC Yakima or Grandview campuses, or at the Toppenish or Sunnyside learning centers. One student who has found success in YVC’s SUTC Program is Kassandra Gaitan. By Gaitan’s freshman year, repeat absenteeism and loss of credits began to take their toll on her education. During her sophomore year, she transferred to Grandview’s alternative Compass High School. Still struggling to focus on her studies, she would let her schoolwork stack up and eventually quit attending high school altogether. “One day I got called into my high school principal’s office, I was told that I was way behind and they didn’t see much interest from me,” stated Gaitan. “I Kassandra Gaitan was told that if I was not attending full-time school, and I had quit going to my scheduled once a week show-ups, that I did not have any more options on the high school campus. The school principal gave me one last option, which I really thank her for. My last option was attending YVC,” she continued. As a student of the SUTC Program, she was given the motivation she needed. She will graduate with her high school diploma in the summer of 2018. Afterward she hopes to continue her education and earn a college degree. For more information about YVC’s SUTC Program: amendoza@yvcc.edu / 509.882.7014. 7 Yakima Valley College
YAKIMA VALLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT 2016-2017
Annual Report • Academic Year 2016-2017 Enrollment
Operating Resources Total $30,977,809
8,022 Annual Headcount 4,377 Full-Time Equivalent
$25,000,000
Graduating Class
$20,000,000
State Operating Funds $20,146,600 65%
1,084 Graduates 1,303 Total Degrees and Certificates Earned $15,000,000
Employees 355 Full-Time Employees 40% Faculty 40% Classified 9% Exempt/Professional 11% Administrative
Tuition $7,927,711 26%
$10,000,000
$5,000,000
Reserves $2,154,808 7%
Local Funds $751,768 2%
0
Financial Aid
State & Federal Grants & Contracts
Total $22,030,810
Total $6,796,291 $5,000,000
$4,000,000
$15,000,000
Federal Grants $4,071,416 60% $12,000,000
$3,000,000
Local Grants & Contracts $1,987,224 29%
$2,000,000
$1,000,000
0
YAKIMA VA L L E Y COLLEGE
Grants and Waivers $13,597,048 62%
State Grants $737,651 11%
$9,000,000
$6,000,000
$3,000,000
0
Student Loans $5,868,591 27%
Scholarships $986,922 4% Outside Agency $1,289,529 Work Study 6% $288,720 1%
A Look at Our Students Basic Skills 18%
African American
Academic 44%
40 or Above 12%
Under 20 28%
30-39 16%
Developmental 12%
Course Type Vocational 26%
Age
20-29 44%
Asian/Pacific Islander 1% 2% Native American 3%
Hispanic 57%
Multiracial or Other Race 5% White 32%
Ethnicity
College Infrastructure Projects
West Campus Expansion
Physics Instructor Stephen Rodrigue works with a student
West Campus Expansion The State Board of Community and Technical Colleges recently 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 state-of-the-art teaching and learning spaces. Plans are currently being drawn up to renovate and best utilize the new space and promote the growth of campus based needs identified in the YVC 2015 campus master plan. Needs identified were a new space for the Allied Health programs, a new conference center, and an expanded location for the Larson Gallery. The estimated budget for the renovation is $22.6 million. This purchase also allowed the college to expand parking for students and staff.
New Home for Engineering and Physics Yakima Valley College has begun remodeling and re-purposing the office space and machine shop that once housed the Facilities Operations Department, including maintenance, grounds, and custodial staff. The building located at 1113 South 16th Avenue has been largely vacant since the opening of the Campus Operations two-building complex in April of 2016. The new space will include two labs and one computer classroom, tutoring/study spaces, and faculty offices. Construction is expected to be completed by August 2018.
Data for this report provided by the Office of Institutional Effectiveness, Budget Office, Grant Office, Financial Aid, Human Resource Services, and the Vice President for Administrative Services. Sources include, State Board for Community and Technical Colleges Annual Report, Data Warehouse, and Financial Aid Management. Published: December 2017.
EXPLORE DEGREE & CERTIFICATE PATHWAYS SOCIAL SCIENCES & EDUCATION
ARTS & HUMANITIES
American Sign Language Art Communications Drama English Music Philosophy Spanish
BUSINESS
Automotive Service Technology Automotive Service Technology Automotive Electrical and Electronic Systems Steering/Suspension and Brake Systems Business Administration Accounting AccountingClerk Management Marketing Retail Management Business Management Business Management - Marketing Specialty Business Management - Entrepreneurship Specialty Business Management Business Management - Bachelor of Applied Science Business Transfer Business Technology Administrative Assistant Bilingual Administrative Office Assistant Bilingual Legal Office Assistant Bilingual Medical Assistant Bilingual Office Assistant General Office Assistant Legal Office Assistant Legal Receptionist Medical Office Assistant Medical Receptionist Economics Information Technology Access Cisco Networking Excel IT Computer User IT General Managing & Maintaining the PC Network Administration Office Suite Programming Support Specialist IT Network - System Administration - Bachelor of Applied Science
HEALTHCARE
Allied Health Technology Care Navigation Medical Assisting Medical Billing & Coding Medical Interpreter Pharmacy Technician Phlebotomy Surgical Technology Dental Assisting Dental Hygiene - Bachelor of Applied Science Nursing Radiologic Science Computer Tomography Radiologic Technology Veterinary Technology
Chemical Dependency Studies Criminal Justice Communications/Call Taker Correctional Certificate Crime Scene Investigation Criminal Justice Police Clerk/Support Specialist Economics Education Administration Early Childhood Education Preschool Special Education Family Care Infant-Toddler Care Para-Educator Preparation Training School Age Care State ECE Ethnics Studies Geography (human) History Political Science Psychology Sociology Teacher Education - Bachelor of Applied Science
STEM
Aerospace Machining Technology Aerospace Machining Technology Computer Numerically Controlled, (CNC) Operator Agriculture Agribusiness Tree Fruit Production Vineyard Technology Wine Sales Winery Technology Engineering Construction Design Civil Engineering Drafting Biology Chemistry Geography (physical) Geology Mathematics Nutrition Physics Pre-Dental Pre-Medical Pre-Pharmacy Pre-Physical Therapy Pre-Veterinary
EXPLORATORY
High School 21+/GED I-BEST Programs Agriculture Business Technology Early Childhood Education Information Technology Nursing Assisting Certificate
Learn More: www.yvcc.edu
ATHLETICS
Women’s Soccer
Women’s Volleyball
This season brought success for YVC’s Women’s Soccer, as the team improved dramatically on its record from a year ago and posted a winning campaign with an overall record of seven wins, five losses, and four draws. “As a whole we had a great season and showed great improvement overall from the previous year,” said Head Coach Abigail Drollinger. “With the talent that has already committed to the 2018 class, we look to continue to improve. Many of the sophomores have already received offers to continue to play onto the next level this coming year. As a coach, that is exciting knowing that you are providing the opportunities to continuing playing on after their time here at Yakima,” she continued. This season was Drollinger’s second with the team, and although the squad finished just outside the playoffs, the future is bright. This year’s roster included fourteen freshmen and just nine sophomores with the team sending two of their talented freshmen to represent the team in the NWAC All-Star Game.
Faced with the task of overhauling YVC’s Volleyball program, new coach Steve George presented his team with a new way of approaching the year, emphasizing not just skills but a full off-season regimen of film study, weight training, even beach volleyball. “You did see great things come out of the players,” said Head Coach Steven George. “By the end of the season, the skill levels improved, the stats were at the top of the NWAC, but our inconsistency and insecurity led to too many unforced errors,” he continued. YVC finished outside of the playoff picture with a league record of six wins and ten losses, and an overall record of twenty-two wins and twentyseven losses. Just the sheer number of games played was a dramatic change for the athletes; previous seasons saw the squad play about half as many games. The upcoming year represents George’s first chance to put together a full recruiting cycle for YVC, as he was hired late in the recruiting season last year.
Fall Season Brings Individual Success It was another season of strong individual performances for both the Women’s Soccer and Volleyball programs, highlighted by a quartet of NWAC All-Region honorees. In soccer, both Courtney Abrams and Gabrielle Nicodemus found themselves honored with post-season awards, as both were named to the All South-East Team. Adams totaled three goals and four assists on the season, while Nicodemus helped anchor the team’s defensive back line. Both were in their freshmen season. As for volleyball individual honors, both Carly Davis and Kerista Goodpaster were named to the All Eastern Region 2nd Team. Davis drew special notice throughout the year for her defensive prowess, earning the NWAC Defensive Player of the Week award a remarkable four out of the eleven times it was given. Goodpaster led the conference with 572 kills on the season. Both Davis and Goodpaster were in their sophomore season. All four of these individual honorees were also invited to participate in their respective sport’s All-Star Game. Fall 2017 12
STUDENT ACTIVITIES This fall YVC offered an assortment of student events and activities with many of the events planned and coordinated with support from student clubs, the Associated Students of YVC (ASYVC), and the Grandview Student Council (GSC). Below is a sampling of some of the events held during summer and fall quarters. For more information on upcoming activities visit: www.yvcc.edu/calendar
Upward Bound
Upward Bound Student Pedro Venegas
YVC’s Upward Bound (UB) program works to prepare low-income, first-generation students for college. One of the most beneficial components of YVC’s UB is an intensive residential summer session where students live on-campus while taking college-like classes. This year’s session was a huge success and provided 36 students the opportunity to experience college life. “The summer program is an integral part of the UB experience for students because of the confidence they gain in themselves academically and socially,” stated UB Program Coordinator Laura Yolo.
Veteran’s Club Scholarship
Erica Libenow receives veterans scholarship from Otto Cruz
Students in the Veteran’s Club recently fund-raised to establish a scholarship award. Starting out as a 50/50 raffle, club members raised $500 toward the scholarship award. Through the generosity of faculty and staff the scholarship amount was matched, bringing the award to an even $1,000. Student Erica Libenow had her application selected and received the generous award. “Veterans are all about giving back to the community. This scholarship provided us with the perfect opportunity to do so,” stated Coordinator Veterans Programs Chris Kinzel.
Trunk O’ Treat Hosted for the third year in a row, Trunk O’ Treat provided a safe and fun atmosphere for children of all ages to trick-or-treat. “Trunk O’ Treat is the biggest community event that ASYVC Student Government does in the fall. It is a wonderful opportunity to show our community that we care about them and their children,” stated Student Life Coordinator Caitlin Goodwill. This year’s event served over 2,000 children. Veterinary Technology Student Amelia Reed
National Coming Out Day YVC celebrated National Coming Out Day, the annual LGBTQIA+ awareness day. The celebration, sponsored by the Diversity Series and supported by the LGBTQIA+ Club, included a workshop with educator and activist Karama Blackhorn. “Being able to host Karama Blackhorn’s Decolonizing Gender Workshop on YVC’s campus provided us with the opportunity to showcase a person who is a unique cultural gift, and embodies empowerment and intersectionality for our students,” stated Counselor Elizabeth DeVilleneuve.
Karama Blackhorn 13 Yakima Valley College
Christian Parrish Takes the Gun “Supaman”
Students during Scrubs Camp
Cast members Micah Brown and Joshua Cabrales
Diversity Series - Supaman The 2017-2018 Diversity Series, The Ground We Stand, kicked off with performances and Q&A by Supaman. Christian Parrish Takes the Gun, professionally known as Supaman, is an Apsáalooke rapper from Seattle, Washington. Along with rapping, he also tours schools educating students about Native American history and culture. “Supaman did an incredible job of bringing everyone together while at the same time raising awareness of Native American culture, life experiences, and history,” stated Counselor Maribel Jiménez. The Diversity Series continues throughout the year. For more information: www.yvcc.edu/diversity.
Scrubs Camp YVC’s Allied Health Center of Excellence recently hosted Scrubs Camp on the Yakima Campus. The one-day event provided hands-on health career exploration opportunities for high school students and was presented in partnership with Eastern Washington University Heath Education Center and Health Resources & Services Administration. Participants learned about the wide variety of health careers available to them through lecture, hands-on activities and discussion. “Not only do students get to learn about programs available at YVC, they learn from health professionals in the community,” stated Connie Jensen of the Center of Excellence.
Playmasters YVC Playmasters hosted a fall production of the musical Young Frankenstein. The play is based on the 1974 comedy film of the same name written by Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder. YVC’s cast included Joshua Cabrales, Micah Brown, Eduardo Rodriguez, Naomi Rottman, Erika Gutierrez, Aimee Hostetler, Juan Serrano, Barbie Wood, Hector Galindo, and Robert Swires. Choir and ensemble performers included Sergio Valdez, Josie Taylor, Hector Galindo, Zuleyca Alvarez, Sierra Hutton, Barbie Wood, Diana Heredia, Chris Mercy, Brittany Hickman, Ashley Davis, Amanda Riley Burks, Adriel Kunkler, Matthew Roberts, Jose Martinez, Aaron Fowler, Sienna Nelson, Carlee Richard, Caleb Teichert, Cory Brandt, and Jason Rochis.
Beyond Dreaming Scholarship In August 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 has provided a much needed financial relief to the recipients, as they have experienced many obstacles in their educational journey,” stated Student Services Coordinator Marivy Vasquez. “This scholarship gives DREAMers and undocumented students the chance to fly, to see that it is important to go to college and to never give up on their dreams,” she continued. In total 23 students were awarded scholarships of $1,086 each.
Disability Awareness Month Events on both the Yakima and Grandview campuses this fall celebrated Disability Awareness Month. Held in conjunction with the National Disability Awareness Month, activities helped to raise awareness about disabilities to improve inclusion and equity for everyone. For more information about resources available to YVC students visit www.yvcc.edu/dss Fall 2017 14
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
Hands-On Opportunities in STEM
Brandon Beskow and Albino Garcia Study Grazing Management
Adriana Magallanes Investigates Genetic Modification
Johnny Zuniga and Andy Torres Study Regional Flooding Risks
15 Yakima Valley College
Yakima Valley College is a leader among Washington State community colleges in offering research opportunities to undergraduate students. In 2017 the college created 17 projects and mentored 46 students, setting a new record for YVC student engagement in research. “We endeavor to give ambitious students a real-world experience in gathering new knowledge. Learning takes on added dimensions when failure and discovery are part of every day’s expectations,” stated Dr. Matthew Loeser, S2TEMS project director. These projects carried classroom learning out into the field, with students getting hands-on experience tackling a wide variety of issues. Just a sampling of the project titles gives a sense of the breadth of topics and their impact: Signs of Attachment in Infant Cross-Fostered Chimpanzees (students: Yari Aragon, Axicalli Godines, Katie Bueschelman); What is the Distribution of Milkweed Herbivores in the Yakima Valley? (students: Zachary Parker, Kerista Goodpaster, Marcela Garcia, Erica Libenow, Eric Nordstrom); Zeolites as a Reusable Energy Source (students: Jacob Stonemetz, Alberto Castaneda, Ryan Tillet); and How Can Physical Activity be Increased Among YVC Staff? (student: Jocelyn Gonzalez). In addition to Dr. Loeser, sixteen other faculty members served as mentors to help guide the students’ research. Students reached out to resources near and far for partnerships, assembling an impressive list of research partners: Dr. Allen Gardner, Northern Arizona University, USDA, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, WA State Department of Ecology, Chad Larson, WA State Department of Agriculture, University of Montana, Roy Farms, and WA State Department of Transportation. These research projects were made possible, in part, through two grants secured in partnership with Heritage University: a Title III, Part F, Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) STEM grant and a Title V HSI Cooperative Grant. These grants are available to institutions that serve a large proportion of low-income, first-generation students.
Yakima Valley Vintners Earn Gold, Silver Medals Yakima Valley Vintners (YVV), YVC’s teaching winery, received eight awards for their student crafted wines at the 2017 Tri-Cities Wine Festival in November. YVV’s 2015 Intern Tempranillo received a gold medal. The 2015 Primitivo, 2015 Mid-Term Merlot, 2015 Red Backpack Blend, 2015 Graduates Last Hyrah Syrah, 2016 Easy A Chardonnay (oaked), 2016 Study Skills Chardonnay, 2016 Textbook White Gewurztraminer each garnered silver medals. All wines submitted were judged blindly by a panel of prominent wine professionals. YVC student wines are included Yakima Valley Vintners Award-Winning Wines in with all of the other commercial wineries during the competition. There were more than 70 wineries that competed this year, and 373 wines were judged over a three-day period leading up to the festival on Saturday. These award winning wines, submitted by Yakima Valley Vintners, were produced by students completing course work in YVC’s Vineyard & Winery Technology Program. The wines are marketed through the program at YVC’s Grandview Campus which houses a winery facility and tasting room. Students managed all aspects of producing these wines from grape to glass. “The students are the decision makers on the wine style and blending methods. These awards affirm their commitment and dedication to their craft,” stated YVC Vineyard and Winery Technology Instructor Trent Ball. For more information about Yakima Valley Vintners and the Yakima Valley College Vineyard and Winery Technology Program: www.yvcc.edu/wine or call 509.882.7007.
Longtime Instructor Herb Blisard Passes In early November YVC learned that beloved friend and former faculty member extraordinaire Herb Blisard had passed away. Blisard taught photography, communication studies, and humanities classes at YVC for over 50 years beginning in 1961 until his retirement in 2012. He truly loved his job and was an inspiration and mentor for countless students. For many years, he was the advisor of the college newspaper, The Galaxy. He was able to create classes to follow new interests and was often called on by YVC colleagues to give guest lectures in their classes. He also presented many times to community groups on photography and his sabbatical project about small towns of Eastern Washington. His teaching style reflected his passion and interests about nearly any subject: science, literature, poetry, art. Anything but technology.. In 1972, he founded what would become the Larson Gallery’s National Juried Photography Exhibition at a time when there were no venues for photographers to exhibit their work in Yakima. He was awarded the Robert Herb Blisard pictured at YVC’s 2012 M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching Award from YVC, and in 2012 he was Commencement Ceremony awarded Faculty Emeritus status, and he enjoyed the special benefits that came with that, especially the parking pass so he could continue to enjoy Raymond Library and the beautiful campus that he saw transformed over the years. For Herb, photography was a passion and his enthusiasm for his art inspired and motivated countless students and community members. A number of Herb’s photographs can be seen on campus and are also in the collection of the Larson Gallery. He will be greatly missed.
Fall 2017 16
PEOPLE
YVC Says Goodbye to McBride, Mack This September YVC was saddened by the loss of long-time employee Debbie McBride. Debbie worked in several print shops throughout Yakima before starting at the college in 2000, rising to the position of Digital Printing Specialist. Debbie accomplished her many tasks while providing excellent customer service and support to all of YVC’s departments. She always had a smile, kind words, and a willingness to accommodate everyone’s needs. When not working, she enjoyed photography, traveling with her husband, and being a doting mother and grandmother. She will be greatly missed. The college was also saddened by the loss of long-time friend of the college Morris Mack, who taught Karate in Sherar Gym for 30 years. A beloved local figure, he began training in Judo before realizing his rangy 6’4” frame was better suited to Karate. He began teaching Karate in 1961; many over the years took to calling him “Sensei.” The annual Central Washington Debbie McBride Karate Championships, one of the Northwest’s oldest Karate tournaments, has been held on campus for 40 years. In addition, “Sensei” Mack hosted countless seminars by Martial Arts Masters from all over the world. He will be greatly missed.
YVC Welcomes New Member to the Board of Trustees
Neil McClure
In October Governor Inslee appointed Neil McClure to YVC’s Board of Trustees. McClure is the owner of Firman Pollen Company, a family owned business that has spanned three generations. The company supplies supplemental pollen to customers in the U.S. and throughout the world. McClure received an associate of arts degree from YVC in 1977 and a bachelor of arts degree in agricultural economics from WSU in 1980. McClure has been very engaged in the Yakima community. Having served on the Yakima City Council, he was honored by Yakima firefighters for his commitment to public safety in 2009. He has also been a longtime member of the Yakima Greenway Foundation serving as president in 2003 and 2015. He has been a member of the Yakima Downtown Rotary for over 20 years. McClure currently serves on the YVC Foundation Board and the Yakima Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee. McClure fills the vacant position of Ms. Patricia Whitefoot who served as a college trustee for thirteen years.
Geology Instructor Hillary Goodner was recently selected to serve as the Vice President of the National Association of Geoscience Teachers’ Pacific Northwest Section. Alumni Steven L. Isaak recently had his article Assessing Religious Orientations: Replication and Validation of the Commitment-Reflectivity Circumplex (CRC) Model published in Religions Journal.
17 Yakima Valley College
Congratulations to Tessa Southards, recipient of the Summer 2017 Classified Employee of the Quarter Award. Southards is a Fiscal Analyst I in the Business Office. She began working for the college in 1999.
Tessa Southards
Congratulations to Ashley LeRoue, recipient of the Fall 2017 Classified Employee of the Quarter Award. LeRoue is a Fiscal Technician III in the Business Office. She began working for the college in 2015. Larson Gallery Director David Lynx recently began writing the weekly arts column for the Yakima Herald Republic.
Ashley LeRoue
Communications Consultant II Stefanie Menard recently had her article Do Your Homework When Choosing Child Care published in the Yakima Herald Republic’s Playdate Magazine. The article shares her experience as a first-time mom selecting childcare.
Dental Hygiene Instructor Cheri Podruzny recently participated on the subcommittee for the Central Region Dental Testing Service (CRDTS). CRDTS worked to develop written and clinical anesthesia examinations required for licensure of our graduates. These new exams were approved by the Washington State Dental Hygiene Examining Committee and will be offered in our clinic beginning in June. Drama Instructor Kimberly Starr recently published a book titled, 457 Days: A Mother’s Journey Along Grief’s Path. This book is Starr’s candid chronicle of the trying and life-altering days after her son Tom died by suicide. It includes her powerful emotions, cherished memories of her son, and expresses regret at the many ways he would never get to experience life. Congratulations to the Larson Gallery, which recently won the Best Gallery in the 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards from the Yakima Herald Republic.
Calendar www.yvcc.edu/calendar
January 6: Home Basketball Games
Come cheer for men’s and women’s basketball teams as they battle North Idaho College. For a complete list of game times visit: www.goyaks.com
January 18-Feb. 24: Indelible (P)ink
The Larson Gallery presents Indelible (P)ink – The Pink Panther & Pop Culture. This exhibition is a blast from the past, spying on the Pink Panther as an example of popular culture while uncovering his contribution to 20th century animation. It is on loan from the Daura Gallery in Lynchburg, Virginia. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, January 18 from 5:00-7:00pm. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
January 30: Biology Lecture
YVC’s Biology Department, in partnership with Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, presents Dr. David James. His talk, Biology and Conservation of Monarch Butterflies in the Pacific Northwest, will share the rapidly evolving understanding of Monarch butterfly biology and ecology in the Pacific Northwest. For more information: 574.4858.
March 10-April 14: 4th Grade Stories
The Larson Gallery presents 4th Grade Stories. The project connects children locally and globally through the work of Judy Gelles. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, March 10 from 3:00-5:00pm. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org
Scholarship Applications Available
The YVC Foundation is accepting student scholarship applications for the 2018-19 academic year. Download the application at www.yvcc.edu/scholarship. Completed applications are due February 28.
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Explore the options available in YVC’s Nursing Program
www.yvcc.edu/nursing