RAMS Monthly December 2023

DEC 2023

RAMS MONTHLY

STORIES OF STUDENT SUCCESS AND LEARNING AT VICTOR VALLEY COLLEGE

Dual-Enrolled Ram Receives Mayor’s Award Hesperia celebrates young VVC entrepreneur Our Featured Story

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Thrive Program at VVC

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RAMS Wrestling: Champions!

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ALSO IN THIS ISSUE VVC ALUM SPOTLIGHT

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Dual-Enrolled Ram Receives Mayor’s Award Hesperia celebrates young VVC entrepreneur

Still in high school, Nadia Altamirano is taking the High Desert small business community by storm. She owns and operates her very own food trailer.

In the vibrant landscape of academic and entrepreneurial excellence, Nadia Altamirano stands as a beacon of inspiration, earning the prestigious Mayor’s Award at the tender age of 18. Hesperia Mayor Brigit Bennington, expressing heartfelt admiration, shared, “My choice for the 2023 Mayor’s Award was a simple choice. I’ve known this young lady for more than half of her life.”.

Mayor Bennington has recognized Nadia Altamirano’s athletic prowess on the soccer field, her exceptional academic achievements, and the unique dual-enrollment journey she embarked on at Victor Valley College (VVC). “I’ve witnessed her always in beast mode on the soccer field, an over-achiever academically,” Mayor Bennington remarked, underscoring Altamirano’s dedicated pursuit of education, including her current journey towards an Associate’s Degree at VVC.

Altamirano’s transformative journey at VVC, marked by her commitment to both high school and college courses, has been pivotal in shaping her personal and professional growth.

Responding to the Mayor’s acknowledgment, Altamirano shared, “Attending VVC has not only expanded my academic horizons but has also equipped me with the essential tools needed daily for my professional growth, such as time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving.”

Mayor Bennington applauded Altamirano’s commendable involvement in various fundraising events, emphasizing her unwavering commitment to supporting youth sports, underprivileged youth, and faithbased communities. Altamirano, in response, humbly attributed her ability to manage these responsibilities to divine intervention, stating, “By the Grace of God!!! God has blessed me with great events that allow me to pay it forward where needed.”

The delicate equilibrium between academia, entrepreneurship, and the joys of young adulthood posed its unique challenges for Altamirano. Reflecting on this, she candidly revealed, “It was definitely not easy in the first few months. Handling everything was very, very stressful, but once I figured out a schedule, hired employees, and became organized, it all started to fall into place.”

Nadi’s Crepes, Altamirano’s entrepreneurial brainchild, blossomed from a lockdown hobby into a flourishing mobile business. Mayor Bennington lauded Altamirano’s tenacity in navigating the challenges of obtaining permits and insurance at such a young age. “She quickly pursued getting her food handler’s permit, county and state permits, and also able to purchase liability insurance,” the Mayor

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Nadia’s Crepes!” Mayor Bennington declared, encapsulating the community’s collective pride.

In her advice to budding entrepreneurs, Altamirano emphasized the virtues of perseverance and trust in one’s abilities. She shared her vision for the future, urging fellow students and community members to embrace their passions and make a difference in their unique ways. Nadia Altamirano’s narrative is a testament to the transformative power of determination, hard work, and a passion-driven entrepreneurial spirit, leaving an indelible mark on her community and inspiring the next generation of trailblazers. As her story continues to unfold, Altamirano’s trajectory promises not only to impact her immediate community but to resonate as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring young entrepreneurs nationwide.

“By the Grace of God!!!

God has blessed me with great events that allow me to pay it forward where needed.”

-Nadia Altamirano

commented.

Altamirano’s mobile business not only tantalizes taste buds with delectable crepes but also offers coffee and her newest addition, Creamy Fresca. The Mayor highlighted Altamirano’s impressive strides in the two years since the inception of Nadi’s Crepes, commending her for transforming a homebased hobby into a thriving business with a mobile setup. “This amazing young lady has learned to tow and back her trailer in the smallest of spaces,” Mayor Bennington marveled.

As Altamirano envisions Nadi’s Crepes becoming a globally recognized brand, Mayor Bennington expressed unwavering confidence in her success. “May you help with a round of applause, welcome this year’s Mayor Award Nadia Altamirano, also proud owner of

DID YOU KNOW?

Let’s take a stroll through the awesome story of crepes, those fancy French pancakes that have been making folks happy for ages. Imagine this: way back in the 13th century, in the cozy Brittany region of France, someone whipped up the firstever recipe for these thin wonders, calling them “galettes.” They were made with simple buckwheat flour and quickly became a local hit – people loved them for being easy and for letting you stuff them with all kinds of tasty things.

Time rolled on, and crepes didn’t stay put in Brittany; they spread all over France.

Jump to the 19th century, and things got even more interesting – refined wheat flour joined the party. This made crepes lighter and more delicate, turning them into the lovely pancakes we know today. A regular at French tables, these elegant treats marked a culinary adventure.

Now, let’s zip to today. Crepes aren’t just a French thing; they’re a global sensation.

Street vendors, cozy creperies, and home cooks everywhere love these delicate pancakes. What’s super cool is how crepes became a canvas for culinary creativity.

From Parisian streets to cities all over, chefs and home cooks play with all sorts of ingredients and fillings, turning crepes into a worldwide treat that shows off local flavors and global flair.

In recent times, crepes haven’t just stuck to being street food; they’ve gone upscale too. Chefs and food lovers keep adding their twists, making crepes more awesome than ever. So, whether you’re grabbing a classic Nutella-filled crepe from a street vendor or diving into a fancy one at a restaurant, you’re not just having a snack – you’re part of a delicious tradition that’s been evolving for centuries, inviting us all to enjoy the tasty adventure of food.

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Thrive Program at VVC: Transforming Lives and Nurturing Student Success!

Learn more about the college’s Thrive resources for students Story by Sunny Haymes, ASB Public Relations Senator Do you ever feel like you don’t have everything you need in order to succeed at VVC? ASB went to the THRIVE Basic Needs Center and sat down with Project Manager of Basic Needs and Mental Health Center Ilsa Odin to discuss everything there is to know about all of the resources Victor Valley College provides to students on campus.

The Thrive Program at Victor Valley College is a beacon of hope for students facing adversity and resource constraints. Led by Ilsa Odin, the Project Manager for Mental Health at VVC, the program has been making significant strides in assisting students since its inception in Summer 2022. Thrive, though relatively new, has become an integral part of the VVC community, providing crucial support and services to the college’s diverse student body.

Its mission of helping students overcome certain challenges and barriers assures they can achieve academic and personal goals not only as a student at Victor Valley College, but as a member of the community as well.

The Journey to Thrive Originally known as “The Basic Needs Program”, Thrive has gone through a transformative journey over the years.

Initially located in building 10B, it has now found its new home at 51A since the Summer 2023. Under the guidance of Ilsa Odin and the leadership of Director Amber Allen, the program has evolved to meet the ever changing needs of the VVC student community.

How Thrive Works Thrive is dedicated to helping students access the services they require. Students can connect to Thrive by filling out the Thrive Resource Request Form that asks questions relating to housing insecurity, access to technology for college assignments, childcare, food, and other essential needs. The program has conducted extensive research to identify resource agencies in the High Desert community and establish partnerships with them. They also provide information about city resources, ensuring that students have local help available when needed. Once the form has been submitted, Thrive promptly emails the relevant assets to the students, striving to make contact within 3-5 business days to provide valuable insights and assistance.

Meet Ilsa Oldin, the Project Manager for

Mental Health at the Thrive Program, is driven by a sincere commitment to give back to the community that has played a significant role in her life. Her dedication is rooted in a profound sense of gratitude for the support and opportunities she has received from her community. Isla’s journey within the community has inspired her to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others in return.

Ilsa’s desire to give back is not merely a professional duty but a personal mission. Her passion and genuine care for the well-being of students at Victor Valley College are evident in her work at Thrive. She is driven by the belief that through this program, she can make a difference in the lives of students facing challenges similar to the ones she herself may have encountered.

Ilsa’s commitment to helping others and giving back to her community serves as a driving force behind her work at Thrive. It underscores her dedication to providing essential resources and support to students, thereby creating a positive and empowering environment for the community she holds dear. Ilsa’s personal mission aligns seamlessly with Thrive’s goal of helping students overcome obstacles and thrive in their academic and personal pursuits, ultimately strengthening the bonds within the Victor Valley College community.

A Heartwarming Transformation ASB asked about a student’s personal experience with Thrive. IIsa recalled one particular student carrying a heavy burden of life’s challenges, facing the unimaginable, she had lost custody of her beloved children. The

weight of this situation was overwhelming, casting a shadow over her dreams and aspirations. As she stepped into the Thrive Program, she was not just seeking assistance, she was yearning for a glimmer of hope, a chance to rebuild her life, and the opportunity to regain custody of her kids.

VVC’s Thrive team, with their compassionate hearts and their dedication to helping students, embarked on a mission to transform her life.

They understood that she needed more than just academic support. Thrive connected her with vital resources, including housing support and counseling services. They even worked tirelessly to ensure that she had the tools and the network of support she needed to overcome the hurdles in her path.

Thrive went above and beyond, helping assist her in locating her own apartment and providing the necessary resources to help her regain full custody of her children.

A Tale of Resilience and Triumph Back in the Summer of 2023 a young student, filled with tears in her eyes and a heavy heart, found herself at the doorstep of the Thrive Program at Victor Valley College. Her life had taken an unexpected turn, she was grappling with the harsh reality of being displaced from her home. Despite the student’s emotional storm, she carried an unshakable determination to pursue her dreams of higher education.

The student longed to continue her college journey, but the absence of a stable place to live, casted a daunting shadow over her aspirations. It was a moment of sheer desperation, but it was also a moment when she reached out for help, a moment that would change the trajectory of her life.

The Thrive Program, true to its mission, swiftly rallied to her side. They understood that, for this student, having a stable and secure place to call home was not just a comfort; it was the cornerstone of her academic dreams. With empathy and determination, Thrive connected her with the vital resources she needed, ensuring that she could have a roof over her head and a supportive environment to thrive academically.

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Thrive provided her with housing assistance, guidance, and a network of support that she could lean on during her educational journey.

The team’s dedication was not just about providing a solution, it was about lifting her spirits and restoring her belief in herself.

As the summer days continued, Thrive assisted its resilient student, who had once felt lost and disheartened, helping her find not only a stable place to live but with a newfound sense of hope and purpose. She returned to college, ready to embrace her academic pursuits with a determined spirit.

Thrive focuses on providing formal attire, acknowledging the significance of these key moments in students’ lives. The Thrive Program aspires to enhance this endeavor further.

Thanks to the tutors and resources provided by Thrive, she not only developed in her academic endeavors but also developed new skills and abilities. She discovered the power of education and the transformative impact it can have, equipping her with the ability to operate a computer, a skill she had never imagined she could possess.

Building 41, under the leadership of Charlotte Allen, plays a central role in this endeavor.

While the program relies on student workers to facilitate the process, it also invites the wider community to contribute. The program maintains a “Wishlist” that encompasses items, resources, and facilities to enhance the clothing initiative.

Dignity Through Clothing and Nourishment One such initiative that stands out is the provision of clothing, specifically designed to equip students for interviews. Thrive acknowledges that interviews are pivotal moments that can change the course of a student’s life, and the attire they wear should reflect their professionalism and potential. The program ensures that students have access to formal clothing that can make them feel confident and ready to seize opportunities.

However, due to space constraints,

In addition to clothing, Thrive extends its support to addressing students’ basic needs through its Food Pantry also known as “The Peak.” Calles Brandl, the Pantry Lead, oversees a team of dedicated student workers who run the pantry. This initiative ensures that students have access to nourishing food, a fundamental need that fuels their academic pursuits.

Additionally, the program recognizes the importance of sustaining and expanding this endeavor. Thrive is actively exploring avenues to secure additional funding for the pantry,

Amber Allen, Director of Thrive, envisions expanding the clothing provision, creating a dedicated space known as “360.” This space would not only provide more options but also instill a sense of dignity in students, ensuring they can choose clothing that suits their unique styles and preferences.

striving to guarantee that no student goes to bed hungry or faces the discouraging challenge of hunger while pursuing their education.

The Thrive Program at Victor Valley College is not just a support system, but it is an embodiment of compassion, and a testament to the incredible potential that resides within each student. As it continues to evolve, Thrive holds a bold vision for the future, one that seeks to propel students toward their dreams, free of the challenges they may face.

The journey may be challenging, but with Thrive as a guiding light, students can continue to dream, achieve, and transform their lives.

This is a vision where no VVC student is left behind, where every dream is nurtured, and where the pursuit of education is an empowering and life changing experience.

Together, we can build a brighter future for all, one where students are not just supported where students can truly Thrive.

For any questions, please visit our website at www.vvc.edu. You can find more information on the THRIVE Basic Needs Resource Center under quicklinks and student services.

THRIVE’s drop in hours are Tuesdays 9:00am12:00pm and Wednesdays 1:30pm-4:30pm. For virtual assistance, email them at basic.needs@ vvc.edu or contact them at (760) 245-4271 ext.

2935.

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From Fire Academy to Full-Time Firefighter: Reese Mendoza’s Inspirational Journey Mendoza’s heatwave of achievement continues its climb up the ladder a foundational understanding of the profession while fostering enduring relationships among peers.

Looking ahead, Mendoza outlined ambitious goals for his tenure with the San Bernardino County Fire Department. He aspires to obtain his paramedics license, pursue promotions, and eventually contribute to leading department programs. He remains steadfast in his commitment to continual self-improvement.

Community service, a core tenet of firefighting, has deeply influenced Mendoza’s perspective.

Through both education and service, he has come to understand the symbiotic relationship between firefighters and the community.

He expressed the profound satisfaction of contributing to community improvement, describing it as “priceless.”

ABOVE: VVC alum, Reese Mendoza poses for a photo during his time with CAL FIRE.

In a testament to the transformative power of education and dedication, Victor Valley College (VVC) alumnus Reese Mendoza has risen from his days as a Fire Academy student to a full-time firefighter with the San Bernardino County Fire Department. In an exclusive interview with Rams Monthly, Mendoza shares the inspiring narrative of his journey, highlighting the pivotal role VVC played in shaping his path to success.

Reese Mendoza commenced his firefighting odyssey at VVC in the fall of 2020, enrolling in the Fire Academy program—a decision that, in his words, became the “main factor in getting [his] career in fire started.” Post-academy, he wasted no time, swiftly applying to Cal Fire and subsequently securing a position as a seasonal firefighter in the Tehama-Glenn unit in Northern California. The following two years saw Mendoza’s dedicated service with Cal Fire San Bernardino Unit until he clinched a coveted full-time firefighter position with the San Bernardino County Fire Department.

Reflecting on his time at VVC, particularly in the Fire Academy, Mendoza expressed profound gratitude, stating, “The Fire academy was a fundamental piece in my development in the fire service.” Beyond the technical training,

the academy provided him with invaluable insights and knowledge from experienced firefighters, fostering a holistic understanding of the profession and strategies for personal development.

Mendoza’s transition from Cal Fire to the San Bernardino County Fire Department was driven by his long-term goal of securing stability in a full-time position. He commended the department’s culture and abundant growth opportunities, emphasizing how the department took a chance on him, offering the stability he sought.

Drawing from his Cal Fire experience, Mendoza acknowledged the profound lessons learned, emphasizing the importance of hard work, teamwork, and adaptability—skills he believes will serve him well in his new role. He recounted a memorable early experience on a strike team assignment, describing it as “very exciting and overwhelming” yet ultimately eyeopening.

As an alum of VVC, Mendoza underscored the significant role community college education, especially through the Fire Academy program, plays in shaping future firefighters. He emphasized the program’s value in providing

In closing, Mendoza offered advice to current students in the Fire Academy program or those contemplating a firefighting career, urging them to be excited and embrace the unique challenges and rewards of the profession. He encouraged aspiring firefighters to give the program a chance, emphasizing the opportunity for continuous learning and personal development.

As Rams Monthly revisits the impactful journey of Reese Mendoza in its upcoming edition, readers can glean inspiration from his story—a testament to the enduring impact of community college education and the unwavering spirit of those dedicated to serving and safeguarding their communities.

“The Fire academy was a fundamental piece in my development in the fire service.”

—Reese Mendoza commenting on his time at Victor Valley College.

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CONFERENCE KINGS: VVC Wrestling’s Resilient Record Secures Championship Title Rams set the tone as the team to beat next year In a season marked by triumphs and historic achievements, the Men’s Wrestling team at Victor Valley College emerged as a dominant force, culminating in a perfect 4-0 record in the Southern California Wrestling Association Southeastern Conference.

The team’s overall record of 6-2 speaks volumes about their skill and determination, with a notable winning percentage of .750. The Rams showed exceptional prowess on their home turf, boasting a flawless 4-0 record, and proved equally formidable on the road with a commendable 2-0 record. Though facing challenges on neutral ground, with a 0-2 record, the team’s stellar performance throughout the season solidified its place in Victor Valley College’s history.

The Rams’ journey to the conference championship was marked by a four-game winning streak, showcasing their unwavering commitment to excellence. The team’s victories include impressive performances against East LA College, West Hills College, Cuesta College, and Bakersfield College, among others.

In the nail-biting encounter against Rio Hondo

at the Santa Ana Duals, the team demonstrated resilience, despite a narrow loss of 27-26. This setback only fueled their determination, as they went on to secure victories against Santa Ana and East LA in the same tournament.

The team’s prowess was further highlighted in crucial conference matches against Moorpark College, where they emerged victorious with a commanding performance, setting the stage for the historic SECWA Conference Championship.

The coaching brilliance of Coach Rocky Humphrey and Assistant Coach Adam Valdez is evident in the team’s outstanding achievements. The Rams’ success can be attributed not only to the individual talents of the wrestlers but also to the strategic guidance provided by the coaching staff. Additionally, Coach Rocky Humphrey has been named Coach of the Year for the SECWA conference.

“Coach Humphrey’s exceptional leadership and strategic acumen have played a pivotal role in guiding our wrestlers to unparalleled success,” said VVC Athletics Director Artie Allen, “his unwavering commitment to the team’s development and his ability to inspire and motivate our athletes have undoubtedly

contributed to this historic victory.”

As the team sets its sights on future competitions, including the East LA Brawl, State Duals, South Regionals at Palomar College, and the State Championships at Cuesta College, the Men’s Wrestling team remains steadfast in their pursuit of excellence.

The Men’s Wrestling team’s achievements this season stand as a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and skill. With an impressive conference championship under their belts and a promising journey ahead, the Rams have solidified their place in Victor Valley College’s history. The College acknowledges our Men’s Wrestling team for their exceptional accomplishments, and we eagerly anticipate their continued success in future competitions.

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