RAMS Monthly January 2024

JANUARY 2024

RAMS MONTHLY

STORIES OF STUDENT SUCCESS AND LEARNING AT VICTOR VALLEY COLLEGE

VVC ASB HOSTS MLK DAY LIVE CONCERT ON CAMPUS

Father-Daughter Duo Give Unforgettable Performance at the PAC New California Laws

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DACA Student Spotlight

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Academic & Tutoring Support

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ALSO IN THIS ISSUE ASB’s Annual Magic Show

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Navigating the New Normal: California’s Laws Reshaping 2024 New year means new laws in the Golden State, take a look: The new year means that California is ushering in a new era with a list of laws aimed at addressing a diverse array of issues. From healthcare to transportation, these legislative changes promise to reshape the landscape of the Golden State. Here’s a quick overview of key laws taking effect: 1. Healthcare Advances: Telehealth Expansion means that Californians will experience broader access to healthcare services with the expansion of telehealth capabilities. This move is expected to enhance medical care availability and convenience for residents across the state.

Rx Price Transparency is a push for increased transparency in healthcare costs comes to fruition in 2024. Pharmaceutical companies are now required to disclose the costs associated with developing and marketing prescription drugs, offering consumers greater insights into the pricing structure.

2. Transportation Transformations Electric Vehicle Incentives will accelerate the shift towards a greener future, California introduces new incentives for electric vehicle purchases. These incentives aim to boost the adoption of electric cars and contribute to the state’s ambitious climate goals.

Reducing DUI Impact is the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers has been lowered to 0.05%, aligning California with a growing number of states. The change aims to enhance road safety and reduce the impact of driving under the influence.

3. Criminal Justice Revisions Eliminating Cash Bail is a major overhaul in the criminal justice system involves the elimination of cash bail. Instead, a risk-assessment system will be implemented to determine pretrial release conditions, addressing concerns about the inequities associated with the cash bail system.

Reparations Task Force will see California takes a significant step towards reparations for historical injustices by establishing a task force to study and develop proposals for reparations for African Americans. The move reflects a broader national conversation on addressing systemic inequalities.

4. Housing and Tenant Protections 6. Economic Changes Affordable Housing Funding will tackle the state’s housing crisis, new laws allocate additional funding for affordable housing initiatives. The goal is to create more accessible housing options and mitigate the challenges associated with rising home prices.

Extended Tenant Protections will safeguard renters, California extends protections against unjust evictions. These measures provide additional security for tenants facing economic challenges, reinforcing the commitment to housing stability.

5. Education Reforms K-12 Ethnic Studies Requirement is a historical initiative mandates that California high school students must complete a semester-long course in ethnic studies. The move is designed to promote a more inclusive and diverse educational curriculum.

Student Mental Health Support will recognize the importance of mental health, new laws enhance support for students by increasing access to mental health resources on school campuses. The focus is on fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.

Minimum Wage Increase in California implements and ensures fair compensation for workers. The adjustment reflects ongoing efforts to address income inequality and improve the economic well-being of the state’s workforce.

FACT: The large majority of California’s lowwage workers are adults, not teens. California’s low-wage workers are now older than they were in previous decades. The average age for low-wage workers is 36, compared to 40 for all workers. (Source: UC Berkeley Labor Center)

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Landmark Assembly Bill Signed: UC Accessibility Boosted for Community College Students Story by: Savanna Blakkan, ASB Student Advocate

February 16th of 2023, Assembly Member McCarty had proposed an Assembly Bill that makes going to a University of California, like UCLA more accessible for California community college students. This bill was officially signed on October 10th, 2023 by Gavin Newsom, putting Assembly Bill 1291 into execution.

In order to make the transfer between California community colleges and UC’s easier, there will be a new transfer pathway between both systems. A pilot program will be implemented within UC that helps Community College Students get priority admission if the associate degree they had completed for transfer, matches the select majors that will be determined within 2026 or 2027. The specific majors for priority admission at a UC like UCLA have not been determined as of now, but four of them will be in relation to science, technology, engineering, and math. In 2028-29, there is expected to be a total of twelve majors selected for the pilot program according to legininfo.legislature.ca.gov.

In an attempt to see what Victor Valley College students feel about this in-progress bill, two students were interviewed by the Associated Student Body Council’s Student Advocate.

The first, Brandon Duron-Carreon, a creative student passionate of his education, explained how this bill will help eliminate the mass stress that accompanies transferring. DuronCarreon states, “I am already motivated to pursue further education after finishing here at Victor Valley College, I am glad to know that there are people constantly critiquing the background process of moving to a new college.” The second VVC student who requested that they not be named stated, “I am glad to see that colleges within California are advancing their systems to make the process of going to college not so intimidating.”

This pilot program will begin to expand within more UC campuses with the same twelve selected majors. According to universityofcalifornia.edu, although this bill will make the transfer within the two systems of college swift, this does not mean that being denied at one UC will redirect the student to another. Many people in favor of this bill believe that it will help streamline California’s transfer program because right now it is not as simple to transfer. Those opposing the bill are still attempting to convince Newsom to veto the bill and instead create a pilot program within all UC campuses. The reason behind the lack of support from Student Senates is because

this does not give students a guaranteed spot within the specific campus they want to go to.

Instead, many Student-Senate’s representing UC campuses proposed an alternate bill that would admit all students into UC’s that have finished their associate degree. The letter they wrote in opposition can be found within UCSA’s Twitter account or SSCCC_regioniii’s Instagram account. UC campuses had opposed that idea due to the worry that admitting students this way would cause more students in STEM to be under prepared for their upper-division courses according to edsource.org.

“By working together, California’s three world-leading higher education systems are ensuring more students have the freedom to thrive, learn, and succeed. With this new law, the Golden State is streamlining the transfer process, making a four-year degree more affordable for transfer students, and helping students obtain high-paying and fulfilling careers.” Governor Gavin Newsom stated within his press release after he finished signing legislation.

(PHOTO SOURCE: University of California sign outside the UC Berkeley campus, California, June 5, 2023.)

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DACA Dreams: Gabriel’s Journey to Inspire and Educate “go back to your country” and being told he doesn’t belong, Diaz remains steadfast in his pursuit of education. He recognizes the stress that comes with DACA discussions in the news but remains grateful for the opportunities he has had.

His dream of becoming a teacher reflects his commitment to creating a safe and inclusive learning environment. “School was a safe place for me, where I never felt attacked. I enjoyed learning, and I believe that lifelong learning is crucial. By choosing teaching, I can provide knowledge and education for others,” Diaz explains.

Diaz aspires to attend Cal State San Bernardino, pursuing an undergraduate degree in mathematics with a focus on teaching.

Despite the challenges faced by DACA students, he encourages others to persevere. “Keep going, push forward, no matter how long the process takes,” Diaz advises.

In the heart of Victor Valley College (VVC), Gabriel Espinoza Diaz is not just a mathematics enthusiast but a trailblazer, as he navigates the complex world of academia with resilience and determination as a Dreamer under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

At just 20 years old, Diaz is the President of the Math Addicts club at VVC, a testament to his passion for mathematics and problemsolving. “I love how math is both complex and simple simultaneously. The process of finding a solution is the most rewarding part for me,” shares Diaz, emphasizing the significance of mathematics as a beneficial and invaluable resource for continuing education.

Originally from Baja California, Diaz faced the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture when he moved to the United States at the age of four. With the support of his parents—a hardworking dairy laborer father and a dedicated stay-at-home mom—Diaz overcame the hurdles of language barriers and went on to develop a profound love for learning.

Despite encountering hurtful remarks such as

For him, the biggest challenge growing up was understanding his path and finding the right support. However, his determination shines through as he encourages other Dreamers to persist despite the uncertainties. Diaz, a DACA student on conditional status, missed the cutoff for eligibility to apply for a 4-year university but remains hopeful about the possibilities.

As Diaz continues his journey at VVC, he not only breaks down barriers in math education but also serves as an inspiration for others, proving that with passion, resilience, and a commitment to education, dreams can indeed become a reality..

DACA STUDENT CHALLENGES DID YOU KNOW?

DACA students confront a multitude of challenges when aspiring to enter a university, grappling with a complex web of legal uncertainties and institutional obstacles. One significant hurdle lies in the stringent eligibility criteria imposed by certain universities, where DACA students may find themselves struggling to meet admission requirements or, in some instances, facing outright exclusion. This exclusionary landscape not only creates a sense of insecurity for these students but also reinforces the broader issue of systemic barriers that hinder their pursuit of higher education. The fear of being denied access to university opportunities, despite their academic achievements and ambitions, further underscores the uphill battle DACA students face.

Financial strain compounds the difficulties for DACA students as they often find themselves ineligible for federal financial aid, limiting their capacity to afford essential aspects of education such as tuition, textbooks, and other resources. This lack of federal support places an additional burden on these aspiring scholars, compelling them to seek alternative funding options or contemplate the daunting prospect of abandoning their dreams of a university education. The financial roadblocks become formidable barriers to entry, disproportionately affecting DACA students and further underscoring the urgent need for inclusive policies that acknowledge the diverse challenges faced by this resilient group.

Amidst these challenges, DACA students exhibit remarkable resilience, actively advocating for inclusive admissions policies and seeking community support to surmount systemic barriers. Their efforts extend beyond personal aspirations, aiming to contribute to the rich tapestry of diversity within higher education. By highlighting the struggles of DACA students, we illuminate the pressing need for systemic change and underscore the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that recognizes and supports the academic dreams of all aspiring scholars, regardless of their immigration status.

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Father-Daughter Duo Lights Up VVC Stage: Dorian and Nayanna Holley’s Unforgettable MLK Day Celebration

DORIAN & NAYANNA HOLLEY PERFORMING FOR A NEARLY STANDING ROOM ONLY AT VVC’S PERFORMING ARTS CENTER ON JANUARY 15, 2024. (PHOTO: ANDREW CARAVELLA) On Monday, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Victor Valley College Performing Arts Center resonated with the soulful melodies of Dorian Holley and his daughter Nayanna Holley, as they united for a heartfelt celebration of the iconic civil rights leader. The father-daughter duo presented an enchanting show that not only showcased their exceptional musical talents but also carried a powerful message of peace, love, and humility.

Dorian Holley, an esteemed American musician, backing singer, and vocal coach, started his professional journey as an onstage backing vocalist for Michael Jackson during the groundbreaking Bad world tour in 1987. With performances that reached audiences worldwide, including British royalty, Holley continued to travel with Jackson for subsequent world tours. His stage presence and vocal prowess received acclaim from music critics, and he collaborated with artists such as Rod Stewart and James Taylor, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

In a unique and brand-new show at the VVC Performing Arts Center, Dorian Holley invited his daughter Nayanna Holley to share the

stage. Nayanna, an L.A.-based Singer and Vocal Contractor, brought her own extraordinary musical legacy to the performance. Currently on tour with P!nk, Nayanna is a longstanding member of NBC’s The Voice House Band, led by Paul Mirkovich, where she has played a pivotal role for nine seasons. She has also graced the House Band of American Idol for multiple seasons.

Nayanna’s recent film credits include contributions to “The Color Purple,” “The Eternals,” “Encanto,” “Coming 2 America,” and “Mulan.” Her vocal prowess was showcased during the 2021 Pepsi Super Bowl Halftime Show, where she sang with The Weeknd. Not only a remarkable vocalist, Nayanna has made a name for herself as a Vocal Contractor, assembling and hiring singers for prestigious events like The Oscars, The Voice, American Idol, and The Late Late Show with James Corden.

With a career spanning over a decade, Nayanna has been a part of major tours with artists such as St. Vincent, Kelly Clarkson, Selena Gomez, and Sheryl Crow. Nayanna’s dedication to music education is reflected in

her academic background, holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Studies from Western Michigan University. Her journey includes a brief tenure at the Musician’s Institute in Hollywood and a focus on music at the L.A. County High School for the Arts.

This year’s concert which pays tribute to the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was hosted by the Victor Valley College Associated Student Body who partnered with the local non-profit known as the DVL Project.

(Dreamers, Visionaries, and Leaders.) VVC’s ASB President & Student Trustee Jennifer Weis commented about this year’s special performance saying “Dorian Holly never ceases to bring an entire community together with his music. He’s shown our community the importance of remembering an amazing historical leader with celebration and unity, no matter the color of your skin.”

The nearly standing-room-only performance at Victor Valley College not only celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. but also showcased the unique synergy between Dorian and Nayanna Holley, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended.

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Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024 1pm-3pm In-Person*

Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 4pm-6pm In-Person*

Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024 5pm-7pm Zoom*

Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024 5pm-7pm In-Person*

Friday, Feb. 23, 2024 2pm-5pm In-Person*

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024 5pm-7pm In-Person*

Register here for an in-person or Zoom workshop.

Workshops will be held in Bldg. 33, Room 135 (Dr. Prem Reddy Health Sciences Building). *Registration is required for in-person and Zoom nursing application workshops.

Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024 4pm-6pm In-Person*

Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 3pm-5pm In-Person*

e g e l l o C y e Victor Vall n o i t a c i l p p a g n i s r u N 4 2 0 2 Spring s p o h s k r o w assistance

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TICKET INFORMATION CALL 760-245-4271 EXT. 2395

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VVCFOUNDATION

Scholarships pay for tuition, books, and can even help with transportation and living expenses while attending Victor Valley College!

Scholarships include:

How Do I Get Started?

Counseling & Education Majors Carol Pulice Memorial Scholarship

Communications & Marketing Majors Bill Greulich Memorial Scholarship

Student over 40 returning to school Never Too Late to Bloom Scholarship

And so many more!

The Scholarship Drive will remain open

January 9, 2024 - March 15, 2024