RAMS Monthly November 2023

NOV 2023

RAMS MONTHLY

STORIES OF STUDENT SUCCESS AND LEARNING AT VICTOR VALLEY COLLEGE

VVC’s Martha Mendez Named Hispanic Community Member of the Year Mendez’s story is a testament to the American Dream VVC Nursing Cohort

3

Fmr. Disney Star to perform at VVC

4

Need a job? Try Angel’s List

7

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE Upcoming events at VVC

NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH Native American Heritage Month, celebrated throughout November, serves as a significant occasion to honor and recognize the rich cultural, historical, and social contributions of the indigenous peoples of North America. This month offers an opportunity to raise awareness about the diverse Native American tribes and nations that have thrived on this continent for thousands of years. It is a time to celebrate their unique traditions, languages, art, and the enduring resilience of Native communities.

While it is essential to acknowledge their many contributions to American society, it is equally important to remember the real meaning of Thanksgiving for Native Americans.

For Native Americans, Thanksgiving carries a complex and somber significance. It is not merely a festive gathering of Pilgrims and Native Americans coming together to share a meal.

Instead, it represents a reminder of the historical injustices, colonization, and the devastating impact of European settlement on indigenous populations. Many Native Americans refer to it as a National Day of Mourning, a time to reflect on the loss of their ancestral lands, forced removals, and the tragic consequences of disease and conflict. Native American Heritage Month provides an opportunity for people to engage in meaningful dialogue about the true history of Thanksgiving, fostering understanding and respect for the Native American perspective while also celebrating the resilience and vitality of indigenous cultures.

PHOTO: Indigenous Peoples Day at VVC - October 2023 _______________________ (Right) A Native American dancer performs a traditional dance of his tribe during a celebration on campus.

3 | RAMS MONTHLY

VVC’s Nursing Apprenticeship Cohort Forges Vital Partnerships With Hospital Employers Victor Valley College (VVC) is proud to announce a significant milestone in the development of healthcare professionals. The inaugural registered-nursing apprenticeship cohort recently convened with esteemed hospital employers for the first time, further enriching their educational journey. This momentous meeting took place at Desert Valley Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center, two revered healthcare institutions within the region.

In the words of Dana Roesler, CEO of Desert Valley Hospital, “Desert Valley Hospital values partnerships with educational institutions like Victor Valley College. Collaborating with the nursing cohort from VVC is a great opportunity for both organizations. This partnership will not only provide valuable learning experiences for the nursing students but also contribute to the overall quality of healthcare in the community.

We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration holds and we look forward to a successful partnership with the Victor Valley College nursing cohort.”

The significance of these partnerships cannot be overstated. Establishing these vital connections is fundamental to building a robust foundation for effective communication and nurturing essential professional relationships.

This inaugural interaction allowed VVC’s nursing apprentices to gain critical insights into the distinctive workplace culture, expectations, and specific job requirements at these prominent healthcare institutions, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Amy Grimsley, Director Of Clinical Education and Professional Development at St. Mary Medical Center in Apple Valley says ” The partnership between VVC’s apprenticeship program and St. Mary Medical Center is an innovative method for education and career development. We have a shared goal of student success. The ongoing meetings with the nurse apprentices fosters socialization to the role of nursing and to the ministry. We look forward to having the students join us upon graduation..”

Moreover, these initial meetings provided an invaluable platform for mentors to assess the nursing apprentices’ evolving skills and abilities, enabling them to tailor their guidance and training effectively as the apprentices progress through Victor Valley College’s rigorous Nursing Program.

Karmen Padfield, VVC’s Interim Director of

Nursing and Allied Health, expressed her pride in the program’s achievements, boasting about VVC’s Nursing Program ranking in the Top 15 out of 160 Nursing Programs in California, with an average of 97.3% first-time NCLEX passing rates, according to RNcareers. org (2022). “Our nursing program was also ranked No. 4 in California and was praised by the organization for producing graduates that are ‘ready to work’ as a member of ‘the health care team.’ We are very proud and excited to share that each nursing graduate is prepared to practice nursing at any entry level in a variety of settings, including medical/surgical, psychiatric, maternal/child, perioperative, geriatric, critical care, and oncology,” added Padfield.

The ultimate goal of these early interactions is to facilitate a seamless integration of the apprentices into their respective healthcare teams, fostering a cohesive and collaborative work environment. The development of highly skilled and compassionate registered nurses is the ultimate objective upon the successful completion of VVC’s Nursing Apprenticeship Program.

Victor Valley College remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals and celebrates this essential step towards their educational and career success.

4 | RAMS MONTHLY

Former Disney Star, VVC alum to Perform USO Tribute Concert, Honoring Local Veterans Chelsea Emma Franko brings her Little Big Band to VVC’s Performing Arts Center to debut her new show Victor Valley College is honored to announce an upcoming USO Tribute Concert, “Star and Stripes Forever: Salute to the Troops,” featuring former Disney Star Chelsea Emma Franko, a former student from Victor Valley College. Chelsea is renowned for her exceptional portrayal of Elsa in the live musical Frozen at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, and her prominent role as the face of Elsa in various marketing campaigns for the Walt Disney Company.

This outstanding event is scheduled for Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 2:30 pm at the Performing Arts Center (PAC) at Victor Valley College, located at 18422 Bear Valley Road, Victorville, CA. Tickets are available for $10 online and at the door, with free admission for all veterans.

“Stars and Stripes Forever: Salute to the Troops” is a heartfelt USO-style show in honor of Veterans Day. Chelsea, accompanied by a 10-piece little big band, will take the audience on a nostalgic journey through the Great American Songbook, performing many of the wartime songs that hold a special place in the hearts of veterans and patriots alike. Chelsea Franko expressed her excitement, saying, “I am so thrilled about it! I thought it would be a wonderful way to honor those who have fought for our country and our freedom.”

Franko’s strong connection to Victor Valley College is evident. She fondly recalls her time as a student at the college, stating, “I feel like I grew up at the PAC. This is my first solo show

here, and it feels like I am coming home!”

As a former VVC student, Franko has a deep history with the PAC stage, having performed in numerous plays, musicals, and special events throughout her journey. She describes the college as a place where she not only pursued her education but also honed her performing skills.

With an impressive career in entertainment, including taking on iconic roles in musical theater and with Disney, Franko shared one of her most memorable moments: “Being told by a young child that they ‘want to grow up to be just like you’ is surreal.” Franko’s portrayal of beloved characters has touched the lives of many, and her work with Make-A-Wish Foundation and other charitable organizations has left an indelible impact on those she has encountered.

Chelsea’s experiences as a professional entertainer have also given her unique insights into her time at Disney, where she performed in front of a global audience. She mentioned, “I was performing in the world premiere production of Disney’s Frozen. There was a lot of hype and scrutiny surrounding the show before it even opened to the public.” Despite the added pressure, she remains proud of her time at Disney and would eagerly return if given the opportunity.

As for her decision to put on a show dedicated to veterans, Franko shared, “I want to remind Vets that the sacrifices they made were not in vain, and that we appreciate all they did for

the good of humanity. Hopefully, my show can bring back a lot of fond memories for them.”

To High Desert kids pursuing a career in the arts, Chelsea offers valuable advice: “Get used to disappointment. It won’t be easy, and you’ll hear ‘no’ more times than ‘yes.’ It takes a lot of patience and dedication to the craft to begin to see the fruits of your labor blossom. But I think that dreams can be powerful things.”

Join Chelsea Emma Franko and her 10-piece little big band for an unforgettable afternoon of music, nostalgia, and appreciation for our veterans at Victor Valley College’s Performing Arts Center on November 11th, 2023. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the door, and veterans will be admitted free of charge.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit vvc.edu/pac-events.

Veterans can pick up their tickets directly through VVC Marketing Director Robert Sewell by calling 909-208-8515 or emailing VVC Marketing Coordinator Andrew Caravella at andrew.caravella@vvc.edu SCAN THE QR CODE TO PURCHASE TICKETS. VETERANS AND STUDENTS GET FREE ADMISSION INTO THE CONCERT.

5 | RAMS MONTHLY

Chelsea Emma Franko of Apple Valley is bringing a never before seen show to VVC, marking the premiere of this new musical endeavor for the songstress.

6 | RAMS MONTHLY

Kelley Cahow Named Dean of Humanities, Arts, and Social Science (HASS) at Victor Valley College

Victor Valley College (VVC) is happy to announce the appointment of Kelley Cahow as the new Dean of Humanities, Arts, and Social Science (HASS). Cahow’s multifaceted background, combining criminal justice and education, along with her dedication to Student Success, makes her a valuable asset to the VVC community.

Kelley Cahow holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in education, with a specialized focus on learning and technology. Her career has encompassed a decade of service in law enforcement, engaging in various juvenile and adult case management assignments, court-related responsibilities, and work within custodial settings. During this time, Cahow facilitated and instructed diverse courses, including GED preparation, parenting, anger management, victim awareness, and behavioral change for justice-involved individuals and their families.

It was within the field of probation that

Kelley developed a profound appreciation for education and teaching. Witnessing individuals transform their lives and reach their untapped potential through education was an incredibly rewarding experience for her.

rates that exceed the Institution-Set Standard, but I hope to increase those rates even more, specifically because so many of the disciplines within HASS are crucial to overall success in college and in the workforce.”

Kelley Cahow joined Victor Valley College in 2019, where she became an esteemed instructor in the Criminal Justice Department.

Her dedication and contributions to the department led to her appointment as the temporary department chair and program director. In addition, she played an essential role in the creation of non-credit workforce preparation curriculum tailored to justiceinvolved students.

Furthermore, Kelley envisions expanding her work in developing non-credit workforce preparation curriculum for justice-involved students. She emphasized the importance of collaboration within disciplines, stating, “Serving the justice-involved community is not solely a Criminal Justice issue. I hope to tap into the knowledge of the subject matter experts within the disciplines of HASS and continue to expand these important offerings.”

With her remarkable career journey, values, and aspirations, Kelley Cahow is poised to make a significant impact on the Humanities, Arts, and Social Science department at Victor Valley College.

As she assumes her new role as Dean of HASS, Kelley Cahow brings with her a vision for the department’s future. In response to the question of her goals and initiatives for the department, she stated, “I would like to get Student Success rates back to pre-pandemic levels. HASS still has outstanding success

7 | RAMS MONTHLY

From Immigrant Roots to a Victor Valley Community Leader Inspiring Recognition of VVC’s own Martha Mendez

and it is my pleasure to shine a light on her accomplishments.”

Beyond the classroom, Martha actively contributes to the community. She is a dedicated volunteer on the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee, organized the first-ever Day of the Dead event at VVC, and actively participates on College Council and as a representative of the college at the High Desert Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, contributing to the betterment of the community.

On a personal note, Martha and her husband have raised three accomplished daughters, reflecting her commitment to education and the values she instilled in her family.

Martha Mendez is not merely a professional, a manager, and a leader. She is a symbol of hope, perseverance, and limitless potential. Her dedication to the community, tireless efforts in education, and unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion have left an indelible mark on the High Desert.

In a heartfelt tribute to Martha Mendez, a dedicated and passionate Program Manager at Victor Valley College, California State Senator Scott Wilk has named her the Hispanic Community Member for 2023. This honor recognizes Martha’s exceptional journey and her significant contributions to the community.

Martha Mendez’s story is a testament to the enduring spirit of her immigrant parents and the American dream. Born in the United States to hardworking immigrant parents, Martha embarked on a journey to forge her future as a first-generation American, one of six siblings.

From an early age, she committed herself to mastering the English language, embracing American culture, and preserving her Hispanic heritage.

Martha’s educational journey brought her to Victor Valley College, where she quickly distinguished herself as a force to be reckoned with. Serving as the Associated Student Body President, she later joined the college as a graduate, where her mission was to secure and expand resources for underserved and underrepresented students. Martha’s relentless efforts and grant-writing skills brought millions of dollars to the High Desert, creating opportunities for those who needed them most.

Notably, Martha played a crucial role in

bringing the GEAR UP program to the community, enhancing extracurricular resources and after-school programs in various high school campuses. Her most significant achievement lies in her regional efforts to align Adult Education programs across the High Desert, doubling the program’s size, securing WASC accreditation for multiple districts, and bringing additional funding opportunities to the region.

In the realm of ESL classes, Martha doubled enrollment and expanded course offerings, making a meaningful impact on countless individuals seeking to improve their language skills.

Martha is now embarking on the noble endeavor of launching a CTE Medical Spanish language program, preparing Spanishspeaking locals for careers in impacted industries and demonstrating her commitment to innovation and inclusivity.

“The daughter of hardworking immigrants, Martha’s journey is the perfect example of what it means to achieve the American Dream. Her dedication and passion for quality education has uplifted the lives of so many in the Victor Valley,” said Sen. Scott Wilk. “Whether it’s volunteering or working to expand resources for the underserved in our community, her leadership is incredibly worthy of recognition

The acknowledgment of Martha’s recognition took place during the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce’s Valley Morning Insight event at the Hilton Garden Inn in Victorville.

In conclusion, Martha Mendez’s journey is an inspiration to all, and we stand proudly with her today. We thank her for her remarkable contributions and hope her story continues to inspire others to reach for their dreams and make the world a better place.

8 | RAMS MONTHLY

VVC welcomes new Assemblyman in Apple Valley

California Assemblyman Tom Lackey celebrated a momentous occasion as he opened his new district office in Apple Valley, an event that drew the participation and support of Victor Valley College (VVC). The ribbon-cutting ceremony, which took place on a sunny morning, marked an important milestone for both the community and Assemblyman Lackey, who has represented California’s 34th Assembly District since 2014.

Before embarking on his journey as a State Legislator, Tom Lackey had an extensive background in public service and education.

He served on the Palmdale Elementary School District Board of Trustees and the Palmdale City Council. Tom’s commitment to his community was further demonstrated

as he worked as an elementary special education teacher before dedicating 28 years to a distinguished career with the California Highway Patrol. Today, he resides in Palmdale with his two children, Justin and Jani.

Assemblyman Lackey’s accomplishments in the State Legislature have been nothing short of commendable. He has been a strong advocate for tackling the issue of drugged driving and increasing state funding for programs supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. His dedication and efforts in these areas have earned him prestigious accolades, including the title of Legislator of the Year from both the California Police Chiefs Association and Easter Seals, a non-profit organization committed to serving and advocating for

special needs individuals.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony at Tom Lackey’s new district office was a testament to his ongoing commitment to the community. Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Dr. Daniel Walden, the President of Victor Valley College, and Dr. Todd Scott. Their presence emphasized the importance of education and community collaboration in the 34th Assembly District.

Dr. Daniel Walden, in his remarks at the ceremony, expressed his support for Assemblyman Lackey’s endeavors, stating, “We are thrilled to be a part of this momentous occasion as Assemblyman Lackey opens his new district office in Apple Valley. His commitment to education and community welfare aligns with the values we hold dear at Victor Valley College. We look forward to working closely with him to make our district an even better place to live, work, and learn.”

The event showcased the collaborative spirit of the community and its elected representatives, underlining the potential for positive change and progress in California’s 34th Assembly District. Assemblyman Tom Lackey’s new district office is poised to serve as a hub for constituents, a place where their concerns and needs can find a dedicated advocate. The partnership with Victor Valley College is a promising sign of a brighter future for the region.

PHOTO: (Left to right) Dr. Scott, Asm. Tom Lackey, & Dr. Walden pose for a photo at the ribbon cutting.

FALL FASHION IS HERE!

GET YOUR VVC SWAG IN THE BOOKSTORE TODAY! PLUS GET 30% OFF MISSION TEE - WHILE SUPPLIES LAST (BLDG 44)

10 | RAMS MONTHLY

Students VVC is Offering

The Learning- Aligned Employment Program (LAEP)

"Earn Money While You Learn" LAEP offers eligible students opportunities to earn money while gaining career-related experience in their field of study.

STUDENT QUALIFICATIONS: ·First Generation College Student ·At least Part-Time Enrolled ·Meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) ·Demonstrate financial need ·Eligibility to work in the United States

Ready to Apply, Scan QR Code

CSAC

Visit www.vvc.edu/LAEP or email cte.jobs@vvc.edu

11 | RAMS MONTHLY

12 | RAMS MONTHLY

13 | RAMS MONTHLY

14 | RAMS MONTHLY

15 | RAMS MONTHLY