The Pinnacle

ISSUE 1 EST. 2024

THE PINNACLE EST. 2024

WELCOME Carpe Diem!

S TA F F

Letter from the Manager

Puyallup-POST

As we move forward with this first publication in almost four years for the student newspaper, I look back on the experiences that have happened to make this a reality and cannot believe how far we have come on this road to relaunching. The student newspaper began on The Fort Steilacoom campus seven years after the college was founded in 1967. The college was only 7 years running, when it decided they needed a newspaper-The Pioneer. In 1994 the Post newspaper was launch at the Puyallup Campus.

The founding members of the college realized how critical it was for students voices to be heard on campus.

Editor-In-Chief Treva Adkins Graphic Designer Grace Corrales Student Media Coordinator Kyla Reese Writer/Photographer Jackson Park

Student voice runs deep in the threads of student life on both campuses. As soon as I was hired, I had no idea the huge task that was set before me. I knew I would be in charge of relaunching the student newspaper, but what I didn’t know was how different the path would be for the new paper. That instead of two papers, we were going to launch a district paper. To add to this, we had new structures for student jobs, newspaper content and the fact that the paper was going into a new direction-an online interactive platform. During COVID many college newspapers survived by no longer publishing printed papers, but by going 100% digital.

Editor-In-Chief Dennis Freire Graphic Designer Le Pham Writer/Photographer Ruby Garcia Writer/Photographer Sean Pule

The student newspaper at Pierce College had many new challenges that it faced, as we tried to rise from the ashes from the previous structure. I faced an unknown new student team, that if this team didn’t work well with each other, the relaunch could be short lived. A new joy to this job was how amazing, artistic and wonderful the new team turned out to be, which without this, the paper would not have made it to the relaunch.

On top of all of this, the student newspaper moved to a different team structure on campus as well, The Office of Student Life, now we work as a team with two new directors-Joey Adams at Fort Steilacoom and Aki Smith at Puyallup, whose support was critical to our success.

The wealth of knowledge and support the student paper has received from the OSL was vital in the papers come back. I would also like to thank all of the faculty, staff and students that have helped us work on and create this inaugural publication. -by Laura Taylor

Fort Steilacoom-Pioneer

Letters to The EditorHave an opinion on our publication events, or policy? emailTAdkins@pierce.ctc.edu DFreire@pierce.ctc.edu

Cover Art-

Hand drawn by our amazing on staff artist Grace Corrales Thank you to everyone that contributed to making this publication a success!

Mission Statement

To accurately publish news that focuses on student voice that informs Pierce College on events of interest, relevance 2

INSIDE...

04//Rise from the Ashes

The background on the journey behind relaunching the newspaper.

14//Veteran Affairs A look into the programs Pierce offers for our Veterans.

17//Food on Campus

Students want to know what are some different options for eating on campus and how Pierce offers support for those students in need.

06//Study Hacks

16//International Foods 07//Inspiration

How to stay inspired this quarter into the new year.

08//OSL Relaunch

The newspaper looks into the Office of Student Life future with Directors Joey Adams @ FS and Aki Smith @ PY as they redesign the new structure moving forward.

10//Raider Sports A glimpse into Raider Sports.

12//Advising

Looking at how to improve advising for students.

What are some of your favorite dishes from around the world? Students take a moment to share.

18//Silenced Voices

Who are some of the famous people in our past that we do not know about? Could some of our history be silenced? Read here for history forgotten.

20//Wellness

How do we stay centered and relaxed as students? A deep look into how to stay healthy as a student.

22//Ally on Campus

How to support individuals on campus.

24//Choir 4 ALL

The choir is making a come back in a big way, where sining is open to all.

13//PTK & TRIO

Two programs that offer amazing opportunities in a students path towards graduation.

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26//FS&PY EVENTS

Fort Steilacoom and Puyallup event pages for the Winter Quarter.

28//BIRD NEWS

Rise From The ashes

by Dennis Freire In early 2020, both of Pierce “Now that Student Media College’s Student Publications— is embedded into a much Fort Steilacoom’s Pioneer and larger program, there’s Puyallup’s Post—were losing steam due to different programs being many more opportunirun at each campus and the loss of ties for interest due to the lack of campus collaboration involvement. These were the final and working nails in the coffin for both publicatogether that tions during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Four years later in 2024, just wasn’t the newspaper has been revived there with new life. Instead of having two before.” newspapers exclusive to each campus, they have been combined into - Laura one—The Pinnacle—and is now a Taylor district publication.

Sabrina Stevenson, a former Editor-in-Chief for The Pioneer, said that there’s too many students that are travelling between campuses for one to not have news about the other, so she is ecstatic to hear about the merging of both papers.

The Pinnacle

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“I was thrilled to learn that it’s a district paper now because the community should be the ‘Pierce College District’ not ‘Pierce College Fort Steilacoom’ or ‘Pierce College Puyallup.’”

The Pinnacle is not only a printed and digital newspaper; it also has a website and plans for podcasting and video production. The challenge of getting all these projects up and running as a district is not lost on Student Media Manager Laura Taylor.

“It’s a week-to-week battle of restructuring and figuring out the balance of how everything works, and just taking the paper in a new direction that has never been done before.”

Regardless, she remains steadfast in her efforts to relaunch the publication. By restructuring the student positions to where some of them work with each other across the different campuses, she has overcome many of the brand new challenges that she has faced and is excited to see the future of Student Media.

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Study Hacks

by Ruby Garcia Is your New Year’s resolution for 2024 to get better grades? We have some creative life hacks, tips, and exciting resources to help you finally gain control of your grades! Bonus thoughts from President, Matthew Campbell and Dean of Student Success, James Lett.

https://flocus.com/

Flocus is 100% free with no subscription needed, no in-app purchases and absolutely zero ads, just create an account using your email and enjoy its simple yet fun features.

Once you’re signed in, you are greeted with the home dashboard featuring a greeting and a big bold clock. Go to the bottom right and click on the ambient mode button, enjoy some nice scenery as you study without the pressure of time. Next to the home button is the focus button with Flocus’s biggest feature bold on its dashboard, the pomodoro timer.

Have you heard of AI productivity? Using Taskade, you can create To-Do lists, mind maps, calendars and so much more! Taskade has both a web browser and a mobile app so you can be productive on the go. Taskade is free but for extra useful features and unlimited AI usage, you can pay a monthly subscription.

Taskade Key Features: • Workspace • Folders • Projects • AI prompt templates • Keyboard shortcuts • Templates • Mind map

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How Does the Fort Steliacoom President and Dean of Student Success Feel About a Certain Study Hack?

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atthew Campbell, Pierce College Fort Steilacoom President, states that he does not recommend listening to catchy music while studying, “especially not music you want to sing along to”. But the Dean of student success, James Lett, disagrees, “I am a musical learner” said Lett, “I can’t study in the quiet, I need constant noise”.

Eveyone studies in their own way.

Inspire

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hese two very important figures at Pierce College gave conflicting answers, while Lett and Campbell may not agree, they are still amazing people to seek guidance from. Besides music, Lett is also really adamant about reminding yourself why you’re working towards your goal. “Anytime I’m going through some type of challenge, I always have my goal written down…sometimes you get kind of frustrated…I always had reminders telling me, ‘this is why I’m up at midnight writing a paper.”

by Ruby Garcia

Inspirational Movies •

by Kyla Reese What does the word inspire mean to you?

Is it a person, a feeling, or something that you can explain?

The definition of Inspiration, according to the Oxford Languages, is the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.

I however would argue that Inspiration cannot be defined in one such way; the Collins Dictionary defines an inspiration as someone and something that makes you or others want to do or achieve something. The thing that7 both definitions have in common is the positive tone.

Forrest Gump- Inspires you to

channel a sense of optimism through times of adversity, and to always appreciate the simple things in life.

• Soul Surfer-Never give up on our dreams, and don’t let your setbacks keep you from fulfilling your dreams.

Matilda- An inspiring film that • teaches us to stand up for ourselves and those in need.

• Hustle- Focuses on the power of perseverance when overcoming physical and psychological obstacles.

• Rocky- Believe in ourselves, to never give up on our dreams, and to fight for what we believe in.

The New and Improved Office of Student Life

by Dennis Freire

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irector of Student Life at the Puyallup Campus, Miguel Akira “Aki” Smith, talked about the challenges of having to guide the Activities Board side of things due to a full-time staff vacancy: “Right now, I feel like I’m divided into 17 pieces of needing to manage, different people, and I would say that’s probably one of the biggest challenges, because I have to manage up, down, and laterally in my job.” Smith also talked about the current

tudent Life Offices continue to support Pierce College students. Their food and hygiene pantry program has been rising in popularity, so as the OSL’s free bus passes (ORCA Cards) and Student IDs are being dispersed for Winter Quarter 2024.They also have more snacks to give away than ever. However, all of this success is only possible because of those who have worked to get things up and running again.

he Coronavirus Pandemic created many challenges for the community of students here at Pierce College, including the loss of social interaction between peers, faculty and campus staff. That loss also greatly impacted the Office of Student Life. “It was just a super ghost town at that time,” said Joey Adams, Director of Student Life at the Fort Steilacoom campus, “everything’s online, no students on campus, just nothing going on at all…and there were several kinds of failed attempts at [coming back] because, you know, new COVID strains came out.”

p until this point, Student Life was in dire straits, but now in 2024, four years after the pandemic started, the OSL is shining bright once again. Adams calls the Student Life team “Wave Creators” as they all hold important roles in their relaunch of Student Life. These teams are divided into 4 sections: Student Media, Activities Board, Clubs and Organizations, and Student Government.

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Activities Board events and their positive effects on students. “I think the impact that it has had on our students employees is the realization what they do matters to more than just them, and so I believe that’s where the true value is.”

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ngaging student interest in clubs is a difficult task that Iopu Ignacio, the Student Engagement Manager, tackles with excitement. When asked about the success of clubs, he was ecstatic about the progression. “You know, from eight clubs last year…like 32 clubs [in 2024,] I would say it’s a significant gap that you cannot ignore,” Ignacio said. According to Ignacio, his main goal is to keep clubs afloat, reminding them there’s resources if they need them, and overall making sure every club is getting what they need.

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ot many students know how they can take an active role in the policies enacted in the college, and Student Government is just the place to suggest ideas. Student Government’s main goals are making sure students are getting the resources they need to succeed and that their voices are heard in policies that are passed, plus an expanded focus on inclusivity on campus, according to Student Government President Lily Yokoda and Former Student Government Vice-President Liliana Somnuk-Eigenseher.

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o check out everything the OSL offers, feel free to come down to the College Center Building Room 210 in Puyallup or Cascade Building Room 418 in Fort Steilacoom and see what their office offers or to talk to one of their front desk staff, you can call. . .

253-964-6373 (Fort Steilacoom) or 253-840-8416 (Puyallup) Have a fantastic winter quarter!

“Don’t be afraid to take action.

You have the power to do it.”

– Student Government President Lily Yokoda

raider athletics Mission STAtement STAFF DIRECTORY Director of Athletic Men’s Commissioner: Duncan Stevenson DStevenston@pierce.ctc.edu

Assistant to the Athletics Director: Keilani Cruz-Williams KCruz@pierce.ctc. edu

IT

i s the mission of Raider Athletics to create and foster an environment that provides opportunities for all student athletes to enrich their collegiate experience through participation on competitive athletic teams, enhancing the intellectual, physical, social, moral and cultural development of the whole person.

Women’s Commissioner: Cheryl Batschi CBatschi@pierce.ctc.edu

https://pierceraiders.com H E A D/A S S I S TA N T C O A C H E S Wo m e n’s Vo l l e y b a l l : Head Coach: Va l e r i e Ko c h Assistant Coach: Cami Medlock

N WA C Vo l l e y b a l l A l l - S t a r s : A b b y D ra g h i c i - M V P Mame Leia Ta t i a n a Pa r ke r - B o r re ro Rhegan O’Nei

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BASEBALL

SOFTBALL

Head Coach: Kevin Davis Assistant Coach: Jim O’Dell, David Smallwood Ian Turner

Head Coach: Brent Freeman Assistant Coach: Lewis Santos Lauren Hatch Brent Freeman

GO RA ID

S! R E

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Head Coach: Marquessa Gilson Assistant Coach: Russell Gilson Kellis Dack 11

MEN’S SOCCER Head Coach: Steve Aguilar Assistant Coach: Dan Stueckle John Morrison Shawn Tobius WOMEN’S SOCCER Head Coach: Luke Howells Assistant Coach: Marc Russell Scott Rickley James Long NWAC Soccer All-Stars: Ashlyn Kennedy-MVP Tatiana Schiedt Sophie Avery Kaylee Mithun Morgan Nal Nathan Iniguez Gavin Forman Ethan Shoemaker

WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY Head Coach: Danny Richards: Assistant Coach: Andrew Fuller

MEN’S BASKETBALL Head Coach: Brian Kovacevich Assistant Coach: Michael Wright Kenny Hart

PIERCE COLLEGE STUDENTS HAVE FOUND ISSUES WITH ADVISING...

THE DEAN OF STUDENT SUCCESS HELPS US UNPACK THE REASONS WHY?

by Ruby Garcia

“We have the responsibility to train our staff to be good communicators”- Matthew A. Campbell, President of Pierce College Fort Steilacoom

A n anonymous student sur vey has expressed the issues students have

regarding advising. A shortage of advisors is one of the most common issues students face. For example, one respondent said, “There’s not a lot of advisors for IT majors…Often the professors have to act like advisors to make up for it.”

was waiting ages for a response.”

Lett has proposed innovations on communication, “Our career counselors have been doing things like classroom visits… finding places where students might be gathering both virtually and in person to see if maybe we can go there to share information.” A texting platform has also been in consideration and may be implemented.

Dean of Advising, James D. Lett, may have an explanation for this: “We have a number of staff who would have retired had COVID not kicked off…they wanted to help the college…but once they were coming out [of COVID-19], they went ahead and retired…[or] moved on to other opportunities.”

If you’re a international student looking for an advisor, James knows exactly what to do, “Students participating in the International Education Program may contact their advisor by scheduling an appointment through Starfish or emailing international@pierce.ctc.edu.”

Other concerns include the way advisors communicate with their students.

One student responded to the sur vey by saying, “My first experience with an advisor wasn’t the best. I could only call or email them, which made communication super slow. It felt like I

HELP US IMPROVE ADVISING BY FILLING OUT OUR ANONYMOUS SURVEY. 12

PIERCE RESOURCES AND SUPPORT TRIO Support Program Pierce College’s TRIO program is a Student Support Service branch of the SASS department that provides academic advice along with helping students transfer to four-year colleges. Unlike the advisors at Pierce, TRIO contains specialized helpers that offers students a vast amount of knowledge and opportunities. Joining TRIO gives free access to advantages and support such as tutoring, mentoring, scholarship support, emergency funding and more.

For more details contact Terry Green TGreen@pierce.ctc.edu or visit room C322

TRIO INTREST FORM

TRIO INFORMATION

Pierce College Foundation Scholarship https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/foundation-scholarships

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Phi Theta Kappa recognizes the academic achievement of college students and provides opportunities for its members to grow as scholars and leaders. Scholarships are the main reason students join PTK. The group offers two types of scholarships to help students complete an associate degree and prepare for transfer to a four-year college.

Upcoming Scholarships : Leaders of Promise IPSLEI (Graham/Coleman/Resurreccion) Workforce Development Contact Iopu Ignacio IIgnacio@pierce.ctc.edu for more information about PTK

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NAVIGATING THE TRANSITION: MILITARY TO VETERAN STUDENT

by Treva Adkins

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i l i t a r y s e r v i c e m e m b e r s h a ve a unique experience, one that can be life changing regardless of branch or length of service. The structure of the military imposes a structure on the individual.

Upon discharge from service, newly minte d Ve t e r a n s a r e t h r u s t b a c k i n t o c i v i l i a n life. Into a system that does not operate i n t h e s a m e m a n n e r. T h i s t r a n s i t i o n c a n b e fraught with hardships and uncertainties.

I t c a n l e a ve m a ny Ve t e r a n s f e e l i n g o u t o f place and without direction.

A n d r e w P i e r c e , D i s t r i c t M a n a g e r f o r Ve t eran Support Services at Pierce College, i s t a k i n g a n ove l a p p r o a c h t o p r o v i d i n g equity-based support services to ensure Ve t e r a n S t u d e n t s a r e s u c c e s s f u l d u r i n g their transition from military service to higher education. “ Fo r my r i a d r e a s o n s , we k n ow t h a t s o m e Ve t e r a n s h a ve a d i f f i c u l t t i m e s e e k i n g resources and asking for help,” stated Pierce, “The transition out of the military and into civilian life is disorienting.”

Pierce speaks from a position of familiari t y ; h e i s a Ve t e r a n h i m s e l f w h o t r a n s i tioned out of the United States Navy and into higher education.

“I understand first-hand the stress and

uncertainty that comes with the trans i t i o n p r o c e s s . Yo u f e e l l i k e a n o u t s i d e r. ”

Data suggests that around half of all rec e n t l y s e p a r a t e d Ve t e r a n s d o n ’ t c o n n e c t with available resources and benefits for s e ve r a l ye a r s , a n d s o m e o n l y w h e n t h e y are in crisis.

This is the goal at Pierce College, to meet Ve t e r a n S t u d e n t s w h e r e t h e y a r e , t o g u i d e and support them through that transition.

Pierce is in the process of developing a peer-mentor program that will pair incoming Veteran students with existing Veteran students. Pierce College Veteran Ser vices will be that next duty station, ready to welcome their fellow Veteran to their next billet.

The Veterans Support Office is also focused on hosting events that highlight the Veteran population on campus including the Veterans Day Celebration.

“Making sure the Veteran feels welcome is only the start. We must give them the tools to be successful in the civilian world, not tearing away the tools they come with from the military, but rather teaching them how to adapt those skills for a new environment,” said Pierce.

The goal of the VSO is to build these programs and create an atmosphere where Veterans feel they are an integral part of the community and make Pierce College an invaluable partner to Veterans transitioning out of military ser vice.

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Government Shutdowns and Veteran Students:

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uring a government shu tdown , t h e Depa rtment of Veterans Affa i r s c an f a ce challenges in its oper ation s an d ser v ices . H owever, the GI Bill, whic h p r o v id es ed ucation benefits to veter an s, i s a n ent it l eme nt program, and its fu n d i n g i s sepa ra t e f rom the annu al appropr i at i o n s t hat f und g overnment agencies.

In t he pa s t , du r ing gover nment shu t d ow n s, t he VA has b een able to continu e pro c e ssi n g b enef it s b ecau se the fu nding comes f r o m a ma nd a t o ry sou r ce rather than disc r e t i o n a ry a ppro priations. This means tha t , e ve n w hen t here is a government shu tdow n , t h e f und s al l o ca ted for the GI Bill are n o t suppo sed t o be directly impacted.

Despit e t his, ther e ar e still some po t e n t ial d isrupt ions in other ser vices p r ovi d e d by t he VA. Ser vices r elated to disabi l i t y cl aims, home loan gu ar antees and vo c at iona l reha bilitation may be affecte d .

It ’s impo rt a n t to r emember, if gove r n m e n t shut d ow ns become a common tactic i n t h e 15

l e gi sl at i ve br an c h , t h at t h i s e n tit le m e n t p r o gr am i sn ’t a bo t t o m l e ss pi t . St ud e n t s re l yi n g o n t h e G I B i l l n e e d t o st ay in f orm e d abo ut upd at e s o r c h an ge s i n se r vi c e s t h a t m ay o c c ur d ur i n g a gove r n m e n t sh u t dow n .

T h e VA t yp i c al l y pr ovi d e s i n f o r m a t ion on i t s we bsi t e t o k e e p ve t e r an s i n f o r m e d a b ou t t h e st at us o f se r vi c e s d ur i n g suc h p e riods .

A n o t h e r asp e c t t h at ge t s ove r l o o k e d is t h e ac t i ve m i l i t ar y st ud e n t s at JB LM . Ac t ive m ili t ar y st ud e n t s ar e n o t p r o t e c t e d u n de r t h e VA um br e l l a be c ause t h e y ar e n o t ve t e ra n s ye t . T h e i r f un d i n g f o r e d uc at i o n , h ou s in g , d i sabi l i t y an d m o r e c an be i n t e r r up t e d.

K e e p i n m i n d t h at t h e spe c i f i c i m p a c t of a gove r n m e n t sh ut d ow n c an var y. It ’ s c ru c i al f o r o ur ve t s usi n g t h e G I B i l l to s t a y in t o uc h w i t h Ve t e r an s Sup p o r t Se r v ic e s a n d R e c o ur se Of f i c e s as we l l as t h e VA re g ion a l o f f i c e f o r t h e m o st up - t o - d at e i n f orm a t ion d ur i n g any p e r i o d o f gove r n m e n t sh u t dow n .

Veterans Resource Center: CEVSS@pierce.ctc.edu

F O O D C h o i c e s o n C a m p u s b y L a u r a Ta y l o r

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Aladdin Dining

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Vending Machines Ok so I know what your thinking-YIKES vending machine food!!! But hey, vending machine options at Pierce College are improving. Student Government, President-Sam PenaRojas, has been working with Vista Vending to improve what goes into the machines.

When you think about vending, it’s just cookies and chips, but Sam has been in discussions with them to include healthy options like protein bars, nongmo minimally processed, and other vegan options.

When in a hurry, check out the vending machines, there might be an option in there that will keep you full until after class.

The Aladdin Campus Dining offers food choices that range from a breakfast burrito to healthy options like a cobb salad. Students enjoy the wide array Aladdin offers, as shown in the “You spoke, we listened” board displayed in the cafeteria. Aladdin’s operating hours on both campuses are from 7:30am-2:00pm.

Aladdin also caters most if not all of the events at Pierce College. For example, for the event called Fright Fest they created a horrifying buffet display of purple pasta, meat ball eyeballs and scary pumpkin cookies.

You can’t go wrong with all the choices Aladdin stirs up or any of the tasty options they provide at most events.

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Cash Depri ved?

What do you do if you are low on money and you cannot afford Aladdin or the vending machines?

The Office of Student Life @ FS and PY offer free food options for students who are struggling with food insecurity, so stop by either office to get more information.

If you want to help out or need help there is a food and coat drive that starts from Jan 15 to Mar 1st, to learn more 16 visit the OSL.

INTERNATIONAL FOODS

by Kyla Reese

Pierce College is full of diverse students that are here from all around the world, they have unique flavors and recipes that they would like to share.

Click on the QR code to watch a video on how to make it!

Scrambled Eggs with Tomato This is an extremely popular Chinese dish that can have either a sweet or salty flavor depending on what you like.

Sinigang This dish from the Philippines, is a sour and savory stew.

Attieke A common side dish in The Ivory Coast also known as Côte d’Ivoire. Attieke is made from cassava that had been grated down to resemble the texture of couscous.

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SILENCED VOICES

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i s t o r y i s a r i c h e nv i r o n m e n t f u l l o f d i ve r s e s t o r i e s , i t i s i m p o r t a n t t o u n c ove r t h o s e u n t o l d

n a r r a t i ve s t h a t h a ve s h a p e d t h e w o r l d w e k n ow t o d a y. T h e s e f o r g o t t e n s t o r i e s s h e d light on some important figures that are not taught in history classes. It is important to recognize their accomplishments a n d n o t o ve r l o o k t h e m a n d t h e i r c o n t r i b u t i o n s t o h i s t o r y.

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i d y o u k n o w t h a t H e d y L a m a r r, a n a c t r e s s a n d i nve n t o r, w o r k e d t o create a communication method

to help send coded messages during WWII? T h i s m e t h o d w a s e ve n t u a l l y u s e d by t h e U S N a v y a n d w a s p a r t o f t h e j o u r n e y t o i nve n t Wi-Fi. She was inducted into the National I nv e n t o r s H a l l o f Fa m e i n 2 0 1 4 , a c c o r d i n g t o t h e N a t i o n a l Wo m e n ’ s H i s t o r y M u s e u m .

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enrietta Lacks was an African American tobacco farmer in the 1950s diagnosed with a terminal disease. At

the age of 31 she devastatingly passed away; her death however came with a great discovery for medical science. After studying her cervical cancer, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, it w as found that her cells were unusual, they were unlike the other cells of cancer patients because instead of dying they were 18

multiplying.

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er cells were used to save millions of lives

by contributing to the development of the polio vaccine, cancer treatments and the HPV vaccine.

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he

first

wo m a n

of

color to be elected to the House of Rep-

r e s e n t a t i ve s w a s P a t s y M i n k i n 1 9 6 4 , l e s s t h a n 6 0 ye a r s a g o . I t t o o k o ve r 1 7 0 ye a r s f r o m w h e n t h e H o u s e o f R e p r e s e n t a t i ve s w a s e s t a b lished for a woman of color to be elected. Patsy Mink was a second-generation Japanese immigrant who completed her u n d e r g r a d u a t e d e g r e e i n e d u c a t i o n a n d we n t o n t o e a r n a l a w d e g r e e . S h e e ve n h a s t h e T i t l e I X l a w, w h i c h i s t h e E q u a l i t y i n E d u c a t i o n Ac t , 19

n a m e d a f t e r h e r.

It’s Times Like These We Live to Learn Again

BY TREVA ADKINS

It’s t’s no secret that the uncertainty, isolation, and constant conflict of the Covid era is having lasting effects on our population as a whole. Even as we walk to class, meet for lunch or attend a student life event, for many, the scars are still tender.

College students face numerous tests on their mental health. It’s a transitional time in life where financial pressures, academic and familial obligations can take a toll on anyone.

There are mental health resources available on campus.

Pierce College provides short-term counseling ser vices to enrolled students free of charge.

Talk-therapy can help students address personal and emotional issues.

Even with the aid of mental health professionals, chronic depression can make sufferes feel helpless and lonely. The brain is physically altered by these negative thought habits and changing the patterns might be as simple as trying something new. Then do it again. And again.

And again.

In a recent study on chronic depression, researchers have highlighted the impact of learning a new skill in alleviating those negative patterns. The results suggest that the process of acquiring a new skill not only stimulates the brain but also contributes to a significant improvement in mental well-being.

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“Learning to play the piano has been a transformative journey for me. It gave me something positive to focus on, a reason to get out of bed each day.”

Sarah Thompson Participants diagnosed with chronic depression enrolled in various skill-based activities, ranging from art and music to coding and cooking.

Over the course of the study, participants consistently reported a noticeable improvement in mood and a reduction in feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

The therapeutic benefits of acquiring new skills extend beyond the immediate sense of achievement. Participants reported an enhanced sense of purpose, increased self-esteem, and a greater ability to cope with stress. This holistic approach to mental health treatment has the potential to complement existing treatments.

Lois Ridgley, MS LMFT explains: “When a person is willing to learn a new skill, it changes the emotional climate of their days, and is often a first step in managing depression.”

The groundbreaking research raises questions about the traditional approaches to managing chronic depression, paving the way for a more diversified and personalized approach to mental health care.

As society wrestles with increasing mental health challanges, the prospect of a simple and effective new tool, learning a new skill, emerges as a beacon of hope for those seeking to help themselves in finding effective, sustainable ways to overcome chronic depression.

THRIVING WHILE LEARNING Student resources are available 21

WWW.PIERCE.CTC.EDU/MENTALHEALTH

Blueprint for Allyship: Fostering Inclusion on Campus

by Treva Adkins An ally is a person, group or entity that supports the well-being, rights and interests of another individual or marginalized group. Allies work hard to understand and address the challenges faced by those they support. They use their privilege or influence to help create a more inclusive and equitable environment.

“I expect them [an ally] to be reliable.”

– anonymous In various social justice movements, such as those advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, gender equality, or disability rights, allies play a crucial role in fostering understanding, empathy and positive change.

Being an ally takes concrete actions to contribute to the dismantling of systemic inequalities and discrimination.

“I advocate for at-risk youth, women, teen moms, children with disabilities, single moms, displaced children, domestic violence victims…myself.”

– A. Williams 22

Who do you advocate for?

“I stand up for people who feel silenced and unheard. Also, myself.

Those I care for and those who stand up for me as well.”

– anonymous “Listen to minorities. Listen to problems they bring up. Amplify minority voices. Be more inclusive in your everyday life. Take action to have more inclusivity such as voting and support to causes.”

– S. Velasquez “I don’t think I need an advocate to defend or support my identity.

It’s always been me who ends up standing up for my identity.”

– R. Flynn “Support me openly, publicly.”

– anonymous

“Stand up for me when I’m not around.”

– Gabriela “I wouldn’t [ask someone to be by ally]. It’s up to them.” – anonymous “I am my biggest advocate. I kick ass. I take care of myself and my own needs. I watch out for myself.” – J. Ross “I speak out against bigotry.” – C. Fuller

Ally Essentials / Top 5 1. Harness the power of social media. Like, follow and share marginalized content creators and influencers. Support artists, writers and activists who speak out against injustices.

2. Shop minority-owned small businesses in your area and online. Discover who’s out there and who needs your support.

3. Wear a button with your pronouns even if you feel that it’s “obvious” to others.

Add your pronouns to your email signature. Practice introducing yourself with your pronouns.

4. Show up for campus and city events that support marginalized individuals. tend demonstrations and protests.

5. Speak up when and where you see a lack of accessibility on campus.

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At-

harmony to be heard

by Jackson Park

W

hether a person is in the audience or on the stage, months of hard work being projected from the stage to the audience is something that can’t be r e p l i c a t e d t h r o u g h a s c r e e n . Fo r t h e s t u d e n t s i n c h o i r, i t i s a n e xc e l l e n t w a y to destress and find connections.

K e n n e t h O we n , d i r e c t o r o f t h e C h o i r s a y s s t u d e n t s f e e l l i k e t h e y b e l o n g . B e ing in a room with people that share the same interest helps members bec o m e c o m f o r t a b l e a n d f i n d f r i e n d s e a s i e r.

As a group, they work on improving their sound and other technical aspects f o r t h e i r p e r f o r m a n c e a t t h e e n d o f t h e q u a r t e r. O w e n s t a t e s t h a t c h o i r “ i s s o m e t h i n g e ve r y o n e c a n b e s u c c e s s f u l a t . ” S i n c e t h e r e i s n o a u d i t i o n t o j o i n t h e C h o i r, s i m p l y s i n g i n g i n t h e s h owe r i s e n o u g h t o j o i n t h i s e x p e r i e n c e .

Though, if singing is not of interest, it is still a spectacle to see art in its p u r e s t f o r m . N o t p e r f e c t , b u t a r e a l p e r f o r m a n c e t h a t c h a n g e s p e r s p e c t i ve on what choir really is.

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About the Director Fo r t h e p a s t 1 8 y e a r s a t P i e r c e C o l l e g e , K e n n e t h O we n h a s b e e n s h a r i n g h i s l ov e f o r c h o i r b y l e a d i n g g r o u p s o f p a s s i o n a t e vo i c e s . S t a r t i n g h i s j o u r n e y i n h i g h s c h o o l , O we n w o u l d l o o k f o r a p l a c e w h e r e h e c o u l d p l a y p i a n o . F i n a l y f i n d i n g a s p o t , h e w o u l d e n d u p p l a y i n g f o r t h e C h o i r. W i t h l i t t l e i n t e r e s t i n s i n g i n g , O we n p l a y e d p i a n o f o r t h e C h o i r b u t n e ve r w a n t e d t o s i n g . A s e a c h p e r f o r m a n c e we n t b y, h e s t a r t e d t o r e a l i z e h ow m u c h v i b r a n c e a n d e m o t i o n the group expressed. Missing out on the fun, he was able to join the party and a d d e d h i s vo i c e t o s o n g s t h a t d i d n ’ t n e e d t h e p i a n o . E ve n t u a l l y, h e j o i n e d t h e s i n g e r s f u l l t i m e w h i c h s t a r t e d h i s n e w l y d i s c ove r e d p a s s i o n . O w e n w o u l d g o o n to study choir in college and would later become the Pierce College Choir Director in 2006.

Interested in Joining Choir?

KO w e n @ p i e r c e . c t c . e d u for more information or visit the AAH building on the Puyallup campus 25

FORT STEILACOOM

FORT STEILACOOM CAMPUS EVENTSJanuar y 2024 Winter Welcome Days 1/3-1/5 FS Club Fair 1/9 FS Winter Village Time 1/17 Student Gov. Meeting 1/29

Februar y 2024 Black History Month Movie “The Green Book” 2/2 FS Student Media Relaunch 2/14 Poetry Club-Poetry Slam & Jam 2/22 A P CC N ew Yea rs @ Ta co m a D o m e 2/24 Student Gov. Meeting 2/26 BSU Movie Night 2/28

March 2024 Wo m e n’s H i sto r y M o n t h M ov i e “Hidden Figures” 3/8 Ice Skating @ Sprinker Rec. 3/16 Student Gov. Meeting 3/18 Winter Destress Event 3/18

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PUYALLUP CAMPUS EVENTS-

Fe b r u a r y 2 024 PY Student Media Relaunch 2/7 Reel Romance Movie Night “ 1 0 T h i n g s I H a t e A b o u t Yo u ” 2 / 1 4 A P C C N e w Ye a r s @ Ta c o m a D o m e 2 /24 S t u d e n t G o v. M e e t i n g 2 /26 B S U : M o v i e N i g h t 2 /28 - 2 /2 9 M a rc h 2 024 R a i d e r R e v i e w 3/6 Wo m e n’s H i s t o r y M o n t h M o v i e “ H i d d e n F i g u re s” 3/8 I c e S k a t i n g @ S p r i n k e r R e c . 3/ 1 6 S t u d e n t G o v. M e e t i n g 3/ 1 8 S G S u n r i s e B re a k f a s t 3/ 1 9

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P U Y A L L U P

J a n u a r y 2 024 W i n t e r We l c o m e D a y s 1 /3 -1 /5 P Y C l u b Fa i r 1 / 1 1 PY WinterVillage Time 1/17 S t u d e n t G o v. M e e t i n g 1 /2 9

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