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Our career-focused programs are designed to prepare you for in-demand employment.

• Administration of Justice

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Ready to discover your path?

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Letter from the Interim Superintendent/President

With the start of the spring 2026 semester at College of the Canyons, I can’t help but look ahead to Commencement, when we celebrate the end of the academic year and the success of our students.

The thousands of graduates who cross the stage each year have amazing individual stories that brought them to their moment of triumph. Now equipped with knowledge and skills learned at College of the Canyons, they will unlock new opportunities and write the next chapters in their stories as they transfer to four-year universities or begin careers. It truly is an amazing day that brings to life the power of possibility.

That is the essence of what we do at College of the Canyons: we create possibilities. We do so not only for the more than 40,000 students who enroll here, but also for the entire Santa Clarita Valley through a wide range of programs and services beyond traditional college classes.

When talking with local residents about the college, people often tell me, “I didn’t know you offered that!” A vibrant, dynamic community like ours deserves a college that is committed to creating and delivering opportunities for personal enrichment and lifelong learning. So, we make it our goal to be the community’s college by offering something for everyone.

Whether it’s a new healthcare career training program, an advanced degree in the University Center, customized corporate training, foreign language classes for travelers, career exploration camps for middle schoolers, an entertaining show in the Performing Arts Center, or pick-up soccer games, this truly is a place of possibilities. Keep reading and find out what’s possible for you at College of the Canyons.

Sincerely,

Interim Superintendent-President

ECHO is published by the College of the Canyons Public Information Office to inform the community of college events, programs and services of interest to residents of the Santa Clarita Community College District.

College of the Canyons Canyon Country Campus

17200 Sierra Highway

Santa Clarita, CA 91351 (661) 362-3800

Valencia Campus 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road

Santa Clarita, CA 91355 (661) 259-7800 www.canyons.edu

Santa Clarita Community College District Board of Trustees

Dr. Edel Alonso

Mr. Fred Arnold

Dr. Carlos Guerrero

Ms. Sharlene Johnson

Ms. Darlene Trevino

Interim Superintendent/ President

Jasmine Ruys

Vice President,

Public Information, Advocacy & External Relations

Eric Harnish

Associate Vice President, District Communications

John Green

Editorial Team

Stephanie Corral

Jesse Munoz

Wendy Trujillo

Photos

Stephanie Corral

Marissa Kneisel

Layout & Design

Evelyn Cox

Nick Pavik

Thank you to College of the Canyons faculty, staff and administrators for their contibutions to this magazine.

At College of the Canyons, we believe that a great education doesn’t have to be a great expense! That’s why our Financial Aid Office works to assist you in accessing a wide range of funding meant to help you achieve your academic and career goals!

NEED MONEY 4 COLLEGE?

Grants: Money that doesn’t have to be paid back (unless you withdraw from any or all of your classes).

Enrollment Fee Waiver (California College Promise Grant): Waives enrollment fees for qualified students for the entire school year.

Workstudy: Money earned through on-campus, part-time employment for qualified students.

Student Loans: Borrowed funds you must repay with interest, but at a lower interest rate and with more flexibility than commercial loans.

Scholarships: Aid based on specific qualifications, talents, or merit, often without regard to financial need. COC students have a unique opportunity to apply for the COC Scholarship Awards in spring. One application is all that’s needed to be considered for dozens of scholarships awarded to COC STUDENTS ONLY. Visit www.canyons.edu/Scholarships for application details.

canyons.edu/money4college

Cash for College: This event happens every fall and offers stepby-step guidance on completing financial aid applications, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Attendees will also learn about eligibility requirements and the full range of financial aid options available. Next workshop scheduled for October 6, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. in the University Center. Presented in English and Spanish.

Forums Will Introduce CEO Finalists to Community

The search for the next Superintendent-President of College of the Canyons is underway, and the community will have an opportunity to meet the finalists this spring.

“This is an exciting and important moment for our college,” Board of Trustees President Sharlene Johnson said. “We are seeking a dynamic leader who will build on our tradition of excellence, inspire positive change, and position College of the Canyons for continued success in serving the Santa Clarita Valley.”

The application period opened in December, and Feb. 2 is the last day for candidates to submit applications for full consideration in first review.

A search committee comprised of college employees and a community representative is scheduled to hold initial interviews with candidates in early March.

Those selected for final interviews later in March will also participate in public campus forums, where they will have an opportunity to introduce themselves to college employees and local residents.

Additional details about the search, including the full timeline and key qualities and characteristics the board seeks for the next superintendent-president are available at canyons.edu/ceo. Details on the forums will be posted there once they are confirmed.

FROM LAUNCH TO MILESTONE: COC’S FIRST BACHELOR’S DEGREE COHORT MOVES TOWARD GRADUATION

When College of the Canyons launched its Bachelor of Science in Building Performance (BSBP) program in January 2025, the inaugural cohort stepped into the first degree of its kind in California and a pathway designed for the next generation of high-performance building designers.

Now, just over a year later, 11 students from that pioneering group are preparing to cross the graduation stage in spring 2026.

Jason Oliver, chair of the architecture and interior design department, said he’s inspired by how quickly the cohort has embedded itself into the industry.

“More than half of our students are already working in architecture and engineering firms while completing their upper-division classes,” said Oliver. “We are very proud of the success of our first cohort of students who are already making a name for the BSBP program at College of the Canyons.”

So far, BSBP students have gained hands-on experience by completing project-based internships with firms such as IES Los Angeles, Skarphol Frank Associates, Lewis Ross Associates and Kord Fire Protection.

Building on the college’s long-running architectural drafting and technology associate degree, the 120-unit bachelor’s program offers an affordable, handson route into careers centered on energy efficiency, sustainable building strategies and performance-driven design. Graduates leave prepared to sit for the state architectural license exams and enter high-demand roles throughout the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.

Throughout their coursework, students dive into the science behind how buildings breathe, use energy and interact with their environments. Using advanced analytical tools — as well as Building Energy Modeling (BEM) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) — they learn to simulate real-world structures, evaluate performance and contribute to sustainable certification processes.

The BSBP program is accepting applications for its third cohort until March 31, 2026. If accepted, students will begin classes Aug. 24, 2026 and are estimated to graduate June 2028.

For more information, visit canyons.edu/BSBP

Electric Avenue:

The 80’s MTV Experience Thursday, February 12 at 8 p.m.

Friday, March 20 at 7 p.m.

Uptown Saturday, May 9 at 8 p.m. Spinphony

School of Visual and Performing Arts Shows

• Music Faculty Concert

Main Stage – Free | March 18 at 7 p.m.

• World Percussion and Mariachi Concert

Black Box Theater – Free | March 27 at 7 p.m.

• Once Upon a Mattress

Main Stage – April 23-25 at 7 p.m. | April 25-26 at 2 p.m.

• Dance Concert

Black Box Theater – Free | May 22 at 7 p.m.

• Guitar Ensemble

Black Box Theater – Free | May 26 at 7 p.m.

• Electronic Music Concert

Black Box Theater – Free | May 28 at 7 p.m.

• Commercial Music Concert

Main Stage – Free | May 29 at 7 p.m.

• Vocal Jazz and Choral Concert

Main Stage – Free | May 30 at 7 p.m.

• Symphony of the Canyons

Main Stage – Free | June 1 at 7 p.m.

• Studio Jazz Concert

Main Stage – Free | June 2 at 7 p.m.

• Jazz Improv/Popular Songwriting Concert

Black Box Theater – Free | June 3 at 7 p.m.

INVESTING IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF

Storytellers

When it comes to creativity, College of the Canyons plays a leading role in preparing and inspiring the next generation of storytellers.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the School of Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA), which offers programs that blend creativity with professional preparation, including Media Entertainment Arts (MEA), commercial music, and animation.

“VAPA programs provide more than just technical training – they cultivate artistic growth, creative confidence, and professional readiness,” said VAPA Dean Andy McCutcheon. “Whether students are crafting films, producing music, or animating worlds, VAPA equips them with the knowledge, tools, and experiences needed to succeed in competitive creative industries.”

A cornerstone of VAPA, the MEA Department offers comprehensive education in film, television, and digital media production. Students gain hands-on experience

in cinematography, editing, sound design, screenwriting, directing, and broadcast journalism, building portfolios that reflect industry-standard skills.

To enhance learning, MEA recently completed a sweeping upgrade of its broadcast control room, studio, and field production systems. Students will be able to operate Blackmagic Design Studio Camera 4Ks in the studio, while field journalism students will have access to URSA Broadcast G2 and Panasonic HC-X1 cameras. The control room features a Blackmagic Design Constellation 4K switcher, Ultimatte 12 units for virtual sets, upgraded teleprompters, and fully integrated podcast and audio systems.

The department also added an NDI-based video-over-IP system for live campuswide streaming, and 5G-enabled Teradek Prism systems for remote reporting.

“These upgrades will help facilitate ‘Canyons News,’ which students produce and livestream every other

Wednesday during the spring and fall,” said MEA Department Chair Dave Brill. “This investment will help students gain the technical competency, confidence, and newsroom experience needed to succeed in a fast-paced and competitive industry.”

The new systems will be available to students beginning Spring 2026.

To give students a more competitive edge in the commercial music industry, the Music Department recently transformed an under-utilized classroom into a brand-new recording studio. The space allows students to learn Pro Tools, recording, mixing, and session workflows using industry-standard equipment.

The upgrade included acoustically isolating the classroom and adapting it to support high-bandwidth AV-over-IP (AVoIP), Dante routing and standard digital audio workstations.

“Our music program is built on hands-on application,” said Music Department Chair Bill MacPherson. “Through repeated practice with tools like Logic and Pro Tools, students learn signal flow, mixing, and essential recording techniques. By the time they graduate, they leave COC with the practical skills studios and production companies are looking for.”

The Animation program also prepares students for careers in film, television, video games, and digital media by combining artistry with cutting-edge technology.

Students master both traditional animation principles and modern digital techniques, including 2D and 3D animation, visual effects, storyboarding, and character design. Collaborative projects mirror professional studio environments, ensuring graduates leave with polished reels, technical proficiency, and creative confidence.

To that end, the college hosts an annual International Animation Festival (IAF) to showcase the work of student animators at the high school and college level. With no submission fee, the festival provides a great opportunity for undergraduate animators from around the world to exhibit their work.

Across all programs, VAPA emphasizes hands-on learning, mentorship from experienced faculty, internships, and networking opportunities that connect students with industry professionals.

Culinary Arts Education RECEIVES HISTORIC $1 MILLION DONATION

The Cusumano family has made a historic $1 million donation to College of the Canyons, marking the largest single contribution ever received by the College of the Canyons Foundation. The gift establishes the Diana and Gary Cusumano Culinary Arts Endowed Program Fund and the Cusumano Family and Friends Endowed Scholarship Fund, significantly strengthening support for students and the college’s Institute for Culinary Education (ICuE).

In recognition of the family’s generosity, the ICuE building will be renamed the Diana and Gary Cusumano Culinary Arts Building, also known as Cusumano ICuE.

The Cusumano Family and Friends Endowed Scholarship Fund will help remove financial barriers for part-time and full-time culinary arts students with a minimum 2.75 GPA who demonstrate financial need. Beginning in

spring 2027, students may apply for scholarships that can be used toward tuition, required chef’s tools, and professional training opportunities locally and abroad.

“The impact of this gift is profound. Our students now have greater access to life-changing opportunities.

We are deeply grateful for the Cusumano family’s vision and commitment to student success.”

Dr.

Jasmine

Ruys Interim Superintendent-President

The Diana and Gary Cusumano Culinary Arts Endowed Program Fund will further support the culinary arts program through investments in staffing, faculty training, equipment, and kitchen upgrades. These resources will help ensure continued program innovation, industry partnerships, and high-quality instruction.

The endowment honors the legacy of Diana Cusumano, a respected educator, artist, business owner, and philanthropist whose dedication to education and the culinary arts shaped opportunities for students throughout the Santa Clarita community. As a Foundation board director, Diana played a key leadership role in fundraising for the ICuE facility, advocating for hands-on, career-focused education. Her lifelong love of learning, baking, and entertaining continues through this gift.

“Our family is proud to celebrate Diana’s life by supporting the next generation of chefs, bakers, and culinary professionals as she once did,” said Gary Cusumano, a longtime Santa Clarita Valley resident known for his philanthropic leadership. Gary retired from Newhall Land in 2006 after serving as president and CEO and later as chairman and has served on numerous civic and educational boards.

The gift also reflects growing interest among Gen Z students in skilled trade programs, including culinary arts, as many seek practical, in-demand career pathways.

“The impact of this gift is profound,” said Dr. Jasmine Ruys, interim superintendent-president of College of the Canyons. “Our students now have greater access to life-changing opportunities. This gift not only empowers our students to pursue their passions and build meaningful careers, but also helps meet the urgent workforce demands of California’s thriving culinary arts industry.

We are deeply grateful for the Cusumano family’s vision and commitment to student success.” canyons.edu/iCUE

LEARN MORE!

Explore. Learn. Grow! Community

College of the Canyons Community Education offers affordable and convenient short-term classes taught by enthusiastic, knowledgeable instructors. Whether it’s learning first aid, mastering a new language, or gaining kitchen confidence, there’s a class that will level up your skills.

Wilderness Medicine Certification

Culinary Classes

Be ready for an emergency anytime, anywhere with the new Wilderness Medication Certification. The first aid and CPR training is well-suited for those who work or play in backcountry

Basic Life Support/ CPR Classes

This American Heart Association course will equip healthcare providers with essential life-saving skills for responding to cardiac and respiratory emergencies in clinical and pre-hospital settings.

Take your kitchen skills to the next level with hands-on instruction from Chef Kristi in the state-of-the-art College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education. Learn how to make your own:

• French Macarons • Summer Pies • Fruit Tarts

• Fancy Pastries • Laminated Dough

Language for Travelers

Going abroad? Italian for Travelers and French for Travelers classes will teach key phrases and terminology to help you engage in conversation, ask for information, or order food.

Healthcare Fire Safety

This course is designed for nurses and other healthcare workers looking to earn their Healthcare Fire Safety Certification for the Los Angeles City Fire Department’s Hospital Fire and Life Safety Program.

Art Classes

Art is accessible to anyone, and our beginner-friendly classes will give you the confidence to bring your creative vision to life using:

• Watercolors

• Pastels

• Charcoal

• Acrylic Pour

communityed@canyons.edu

Education Career Exploration

sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-graders

Career Exploration camps run during winter, spring and summer breaks, and feature hands-on learning opportunities in:

• Animation • Architecture • Art

• Automotive• Babysitters Club

• Cybersecurity • E-sports

• Interior Design • Sports Medicine

SparkForce Welding Camp

High school students gain hands-on welding and metal fabrication experience from expert welding instructors. Scheduled for July 2026.

2026

Camp Dates

Spring Institute: April 6-10

Summer Institute: June 15-19

Pathway to Law School Mock Trial Camp

Working with paralegal instructors, high school students explore the legal field, strengthen public speaking skills, and build industry connections within the legal community. Scheduled for June 2026.

•

• Medical Scribe

• Paralegal

• Personal Care Aide

• Photography

• Project Management

• Real Estate

• Recreational Management

• Self Defense

• Sign Language

• Theatre

•

Workforce & Economic Advancement Division helps area companies stay competitive.

NEW GRANT UNDERWRITES CORPORATE TRAINING

A new infusion of funding from California’s Employment Training Panel (ETP) will help College of the Canyons offer customized training to local businesses at a reduced cost.

The college’s Employee Training Institute received an $850,000 grant in 2025 to help underwrite the cost of training for qualified companies. This is the 18th contract of its kind awarded to the college, which brings the total ETP funding to more than $9 million secured for Santa Clarita Valley employers by College of the Canyons.

Taught by industry professionals, training is delivered onsite or remotely and can be scaled to serve large or small class sizes.

Topics include:

• Lean Six Sigma & Process Improvement

• Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)

• Inspection and Measurement

• Supervisory Skills for Emerging Leaders

• Print Reading & Shop Math

• Microsoft Excel & Office Tools: For Operations

• Customer Service & Sales Strategies

• Project & Supply Chain Management

• Leadership Communication & Emotional Intelligence

ETI can also develop and deliver customized training solutions designed to meet specific client needs.

UNIQUELY ABLED ACADEMY GARNERS AWARDS & FUNDING

The Uniquely Abled Academy (UAA) offers shortterm training in CNC machining to individuals with high-functioning autism. Its combination of skill-building and job readiness helps candidates successfully find employment after completing the program. It boasts an 80 percent to 89 percent job placement rate, which led to a Top Performing Program designation from the South Bay Workforce Investment Board in November 2025. The program has graduated 67 students in seven cohorts, with 14 employers hiring one or more students.

In 2026, UAA will work toward creating an apprenticeship pipeline in robotics, thanks to a $260,000 grant received in collaboration with USC’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. This initiative builds on UAA’s successful 2024 pilot initiative in robotic programming.

Cougars Athletics Prospective Student-Athlete Information Night

The COC Athletic Department is inviting all future Cougars to its Prospective Student-Athlete Information Night being held from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 16, in the West P.E. Gymnasium.

Incoming freshmen and potential transfer students with an interest in competing for one of the Cougars’ 17 intercollegiate sports programs are invited to attend in order to:

• Meet with coaches, athletic administration and support staff

• Visit campus and tour the athletic facilities

• Explore academic opportunities and degree pathways

• Learn more about the rich history and bright future of COC Athletics

• Begin the process of becoming a Cougar Student-Athlete

For more information, please contact COC Athletic Director Matt Crater at (661)362-3545 or visit

COUGARS SPORTS NETWORK CONTINUES FIFTH SEASON OF LIVE BROADCASTS

This spring, the Cougars Sports Network (CSN) continues its fifth season of providing FREE live stream productions of COC Athletics home games to fans and supporters across the globe.

On deck for the coming semester is a full lineup of COC men’s & women’s basketball, baseball, softball and women’s tennis events

LIVE from the Valencia campus. There are also a growing number of “Classic Games’ and ‘Alumni Spotlight” videos featuring former Cougar student-athletes available, with more coming each week.

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTY

7 vs. 7 Soccer Games Running Weekly

The COC men’s and women’s soccer programs are hosting 7 vs. 7 pick-up games, running on Friday evenings through June 29, at the COC Soccer Facility.

All games are supervised by coaches and players from the COC soccer programs, however, coaching instruction will not be provided, allowing for each player’s complete creative freedom. The goal of each coed session is to provide an opportunity for participants to better explore who they are as a player. Games run weekly.

• 6 to 7 p.m. — Elementary & Middle School

• 7 to 8 p.m. — High School & Adult

Cost is $10 per player/per session with registration now open at COCathletics.com.

The Canyons football program is hosting its fourth annual Super Saturday Skills & Drills Clinic on Saturday, Feb. 7, as part of the annual “Big Game” weekend.

Running from 9 to 11:30 a.m. inside Cougar Stadium, the non-contact clinic is open to youth players ages 6 to 17 and will cover basic agility training, position work, 7-on-7 drills and a whole lot of fun.

Led by current COC football coaches and student-athletes, attendees will have the opportunity to compete in the same drills and instructional environment as current Cougars football players.

Cost is $60 per player with registration now open at COCathletics.com.

COC Summer Camps

Registration Opens March 2

Registration for the upcoming summer slate of youth sports camps begins on Monday, March 2, with multiple sessions open to boys and girls of all ages and abilities. Expected back for Summer 2026 are:

• Howard Fisher’s Cougar Basketball Camp

• COC Girls Soccer Camp

• COC Volleyball Camp

Dates/times and costs for each camp will be announced prior to the open registration period at COCathletics.com.

Canyon Country Campus Launches Two New HEALTHCARE CAREER PROGRAMS

This fall, the College of the Canyons Canyon Country campus (CCC) launched the new Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) and Pharmacy Technology certificate programs, which were created to meet the growing demand for these highly skilled health professions.

“We are thrilled to launch these innovative certificate programs at Canyon Country campus,” said Paul Wickline, associate vice president of CCC. “They provide students with the hands-on skills and knowledge needed to step confidently into growing, high-demand health professions.”

DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY

The DMS program trains students to use ultrasound technology to capture diagnostic images that support patient care and medical decision-making.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The college’s DMS program offers in-person classes at the Canyon Country campus with labs featuring BodyWorks Eve Simulator Training.

The college’s DMS program has started the accreditation process with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

PHARMACY TECHNOLOGY

The Pharmacy Technology program prepares students for entry-level pharmacy technician positions across various settings, including inpatient and outpatient hospital pharmacies, retail, compounding, veterinary, and specialty pharmacies.

Students gain knowledge and skills in pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, sterile and non-sterile compounding,

and retail and institutional pharmacy operations through classroom instruction and a simulation lab.

The program includes a required externship to provide students with hands-on practical experience in a pharmacy environment, so they are job-ready upon completing the program.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for pharmacy technicians are projected to grow six percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be qualified to apply for a California Pharmacy Technician license and to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) to earn the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.

The two-semester program is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).

“These programs reflect our ongoing commitment to preparing the next generation of skilled health professionals,” said Dr. Thea Sweo Alvarado, interim assistant superintendent/vice president of instruction at the college. “By combining classroom instruction with practical experience, we ensure our graduates are ready to make an immediate impact in their fields.”

More Degrees. Less Driving.

If you think earning a four-year college degree with in-person classes requires commuting out of the Santa Clarita Valley, think again.

Located on the College of the Canyons Valencia campus, the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center features 21 degree and certificate options offered through the University of La Verne and National University.

Together, the two universities offer 11 bachelor’s degrees, four master’s degrees, three master’s degrees with credentials, two credential programs, and one doctoral program.

The newest program from National University is particularly helpful for students looking to advance their tech careers. National now offers a bachelor of science in electrical and computer engineering at the University Center.

Since it opened more than 20 years ago, the center has become a proven and valued resource for students seeking to grow their careers. More than 4,400 students have earned degrees from partnering universities at the center.

Will you be next?

News & Notes

COLLEGE RANKED AMONG BEST FOR RETURN ON INVESTMENT

College of the Canyons was ranked 14th statewide in a Return on Investment analysis of 327 California community colleges and certificate-granting institutions. Among 25 L.A. County community colleges, the college is No. 1 in the Northern L.A. region, with students recouping out-of-pocket costs in just three to four months and earning a median salary of $49,022 within 10 years, according to the College Futures Foundation and HEA Group.

NURSING STUDENTS AWARDED PINS

Fifty-eight nursing students received their graduation pins during a ceremony at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center on Dec. 8. The 42 women and 16 men – ranging in age from 20 to 60 – will be able to wear the pins during the next annual commencement. More than half of the students are concurrently enrolled in Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs. The ceremony also featured the traditional lighting of candles in tribute to Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.

FREE TAX PREP OFFERED

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program offers free tax-preparation services to qualified low- to mid-income individuals and those with disabilities or limited English skills starting Saturday, Feb. 7. The service is available at no charge to those earning up to $68,675 per year. Student volunteers provide the service 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays through April 18 in Room 233 of Hasley Hall at the Valencia campus. Participants can park in Lot 5 at no cost. More information is available at www.canyons.edu/VITA

College Recognized for Student Math Success

The Campaign for College Opportunity named College of the Canyons a 2025 Pathway Champion for excelling in Black Transfer-Level Math Success. The college is one of three California community colleges that supported the highest percentage of Black students to complete a transferlevel math course within one year of their initial enrollment in 2023-24. “We remain dedicated to breaking down barriers and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed,” Acting Superintendent-President Dr. Jasmine Ruys said.

College Named Parks Ambassador

College of the Canyons was selected to join the 2025-26 class of National Park Trust College Ambassadors, standing out as the only community college among a group of universities nationwide. Other participating institutions include Harvard University and Georgetown University. The program equips students to lead outdoor initiatives on their campuses while gaining practical, hands-on experience in the park and outdoor industries.

FIRST CLS COHORT GRADUATES

The first Clinical Lab Scientist cohort graduated during a ceremony at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center on Oct. 24. Launched in 2024, the program prepares students for careers in clinical laboratories. The 12 graduates earned certificates and the opportunity to take the state certification exam. “These students are entering the workforce at a time when the demand for clinical laboratory scientists continues to grow,” said Dr. Hencelyn Chu, program director and Medical Laboratory Technologies chair. “Their skills and dedication will play a vital role in supporting physicians and healthcare teams in the diagnosis and care of patients.”

STUDENT EXPERIMENT REACHES STRATOSPHERE

The college’s chapter of the Society of Physics Students successfully launched a high-altitude balloon carrying a scientific device that members designed, built, and tested. Launched in September, the payload included a custom bio-aerosol sampler to collect microorganisms in the stratosphere. The work is part of a scientific thesis by instructor and chapter advisor Kimberly Berthet. The project was designed to be accessible, affordable, and easily reproducible by STEM groups at other educational institutions to contribute to a process commonly referred to as “crowd research.” The project united students from physics, engineering, and life sciences.

Golden Globe Grant Funds Student Media Production

The Golden Globe Foundation awarded a $10,000 grant to the Canyons Media Work Education Experience, which allows students to create professional-quality media productions while earning non-tuition credit. The program places students in key crew roles on independent film and television productions, providing them hands-on experience and non-tuition credit. Launched in 2024 by Media Entertainment Arts, the program’s debut project is “The Valley,” an original television series that will air on SCVTV.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY CENTER MOVING FORWARD

College of the Canyons achieved a significant milestone recently in its efforts to create a hands-on training facility that will equip students with the skills needed to work in the fast-growing welding and advanced manufacturing industries.

Building plans for the two-story, 81,000-square-foot Advanced Technology Center (ATC) were finalized and sent to the Division of the State Architect for approval in November. The review process typically takes six to eight months to complete, putting the project on schedule to begin construction in mid-2026.

Preliminary work on the building site at the Valencia campus is already underway. A water line that runs under Parking Lot 6, the ATC’s planned location, must be moved before the facility can be built. The relocation project should be completed in spring, prior to approval of the building plans by the Division of the State Architect.

In the meantime, new programs available at the interim Advanced Technology Center will prepare students for successful careers with local companies that specialize in manufacturing, particularly aerospace and defense firms. The Tooling and Milling Pathway, which was created in partnership with the Northrop Grumman Corp., introduces students to manufacturing concepts and equips them with foundational skills that enable them to begin working and continue to grow their knowledge and abilities through additional training.

The interim Advanced Technology Center, located in the Centre Pointe business park off Golden Valley Road, has classes available for spring 2026. Visit canyons.edu/schedule for a complete list of classes, or atc.canyons.edu for more information about the Advanced Technology Center.

OTA Program to Launch in Fall 2026

The College of the Canyons Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program has been granted Candidate for Accreditation status by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), which allows the program to move forward with enrolling its first 28-student cohort.

Scheduled to launch in fall 2026, the college’s OTA program will prepare students to become skilled healthcare professionals who work under occupational therapists to provide hands-on support and intervention. OTA’s aid individuals in their development, rehabilitation, enhancement, and preservation of essential life and work skills.

“We are very excited to offer an OTA program at COC for those interested in pursuing this very rewarding career,” said Anna Hillary, chair of the college’s OTA program. “Our program was designed for working adults and career changers, offering a late afternoon and evening schedule of classes. Space is limited, which is why we strongly recommend that students begin the application process as soon as possible.”

Courses will run Tuesday through Friday, from 2 to 9 p.m., exclusively at the Valencia campus, with all courses delivered solely in-person to maximize hands-on learning and student success.

The program will accept applications from March 2 through March 31, 2026.

Before submitting an application, applicants must complete seven prerequisite courses and attend one Zoom information session to learn more about the program.