YVCC's Fall 2014 Campus Update

Calendar www.yvcc.edu/calendar

January 10: Home Basketball Games Come cheer for the men’s and women’s basketball programs at their home games in Sherar Gym. For a complete list of upcoming athletic events visit www.goyaks.com

January 15-February 21: Visual Voices: Women Painters in Washington The Larson Gallery hosts Visual Voices: Women Painters in Washington.

Founded in 1930, the Women Painters of Washington organized to create awareness about women’s accomplishments in the visual arts and to realize their professional potential through fellowship. A reception to meet the artists will be held Saturday, February 21 from 3:00-5:00pm.

For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org

January 22: Biology Lecture YVCC’s Biology Department, in partnership with the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, presents Dr. Matthew Loeser and Betsy Bloomfield on Thursday, January 22, 2015 at 7:00pm in Glenn Anthon Hall Room 215.

Their talk, Grazing, Conservation and Citizen Science: A Local Effort to Protect the Values of the Working Landscapes, explores the future of a recently acquired easement of land by Cowiche Canyon Conservancy.

Loeser and Bloomfield outline plans for citizens to conduct monitoring and research in an effort to improve biodiversity, ecosystem function, and human enjoyment. For more information: 574.4858.

February 7: Science Olympiad YVCC hosts middle school students from across the Yakima Valley to compete in a variety of science-based challenges. Top performing schools earn an invitation to the state Science Olympiad Tournament.

For additional information: www.yvcc.edu/calendar

February 7: Sealant Day YVCC’s Dental Hygiene Program hosts the 22nd Annual Free Dental Sealant Day on Saturday, February 7. Sealant Day provides free dental sealants, fluoride varnish, and visual dental exams for youth ages 4-21.

For more information or to schedule an appointment call 574.4917.

February 28: Light Night The Larson Gallery Guild, in partnership with The Seasons Performance Hall, presents the third annual Light Night. Hosted at The Seasons Performance Hall the event celebrates light in the Yakima Valley with a silent auction, music, lighted hair show, and more. The cost is $60 per person. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org

March 7-April 18: 39th National Juried Photography Exhibit The Larson Gallery presents the 39th National Juried Photography Exhibition, a biennial national juried exhibition featuring photographers from around the United States. The exhibit will be juried

by David Johnson, a fine art photographer and photography teacher.

Opening reception is Saturday, March 7 from 3:00-5:00pm. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org

April 26: Larson Gallery Guild Honors The Arts For 14 years the Larson Gallery has been celebrating artists and the arts. Join the gallery for brunch and an enjoyable afternoon. The event will be held from 12:00-2:00pm. For ticket information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org

Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Available The YVCC Foundation is accepting student scholarship applications for the 2015-16 academic year. Completed applications are due March 13, 2015. For more information: 574.4645 or www.yvcc.edu/foundation

Contents 3 4 5 7 8

Welcome Dr. Linda Kaminski, President Campus News YVCC Offers New HS21+ Program Aerospace Machining Technology Training the Next Generation of Machinists Larson Gallery Visual Voice: Women Painters of Washington Annual Report to the Community YVCC’s 2013-14 Academic Year in Review

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Produced: YVCC Community Relations: Niki Hopkins and Stefanie Menard Photographs: Niki Hopkins, Stefanie Menard, and Jordan Vidmore Published December 2014 If you would like to be added or removed from our mailing list, please contact us: Yakima Valley Community College Community Relations PO Box 22520 • Yakima, WA 98907-2520 communityrelations@yvcc.edu / 509.574.4646

Athletics Soccer & Volleyball Season Highlights Student Activities Students Support Local Organizations Student Highlight Katie Hovenkotter Faculty Highlight Music Instructor Steven Slusher YVCC’s People Sharing Good News

Cover Photo: Students experience hands-on training in YVCC’s Aerospace Machining Technology Program - read more, page 5.

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www.facebook.com/YakimaValleyCC Yakima Valley Community College does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, sex, genetic information, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. All inquiries regarding compliance should be directed to the Director of Human Resource Services, YVCC, South 16th Ave. & Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima, WA 98902; or call 509.574.4670.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT

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As fall quarter quickly comes to an end, we will not only celebrate the joys of the holidays but also be grateful for a successful start to many new initiatives. In September, our first bachelor of applied science degree in business management began with a full class of eager students, many of whom stated that this has been a lifelong dream that would not have been possible without our program. We are looking forward to their graduation in two years.

Another new initiative is High School 21+. This program will enable students who do not have a high school diploma to earn one from YVCC. For many, this is a better and less costly alternative to the GED test.

Also new this fall was the initiation of a new associate of applied science degree in aerospace machining technology. Machining technology majors learn the skills required to make aerospace machined products that meet precise specifications. There is a huge shortage of skilled workers in this career field across the nation and the need is expected to grow in the future.

Finally, we continue to watch the development of our newest facility, Palmer Martin Hall, as it comes closer to completion. We can now see the exterior of the building and the new green space that will enhance the south side of the Yakima Campus. The building is scheduled to be completed in April and will open for classes in the fall of 2015.

In this issue of the Campus Update you will read about our newest programs and projects. Most important, you will learn about the activities and accomplishments of our outstanding students, faculty, and staff.

We hope you find this issue to be informative and we thank you for your ongoing investment in the lives of our students and their families.

Sincerely,

Linda Kaminski, Ed.D. President

Board of Trustees Robert Ozuna, Chair • Paul McDonald • Rosalinda Mendoza • Lisa Parker • Patricia Whitefoot Dr. Linda Kaminski, President Teresa Holland, Vice President of Administrative Services • Tomas Ybarra, Vice President of Instruction and Student Services Kerrie Abb, Dean of Arts & Sciences • Paulette Lopez, Dean of Workforce Education • Leslie Blackaby, Dean of Student Services Dr. Bryce Humpherys, Dean of Grandview Campus & Basic Skills

CAMPUS NEWS

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New Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Management This fall YVCC launched its new bachelor of applied science degree in business management. To help spearhead the program YVCC hired Christi Kitt, Joe Young, and Luis López.

Christi Kitt is an alumna of YVCC and holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Washington State University (WSU) and a master’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in marketing from City University. Kitt has been a part-time instructor for YVCC’s Business Administration Department for eight years and now serves as the full-time faculty member for the program.

Joe Young, program coordinator, holds a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Union College and a master’s degree in business management from WSU. Young has a broad range of Students in YVCC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Management Program experience in the public and private sectors including non-profit and for-profit organizations, and small business and corporate environments.

Luis López has been appointed the director of baccalaureate of applied science programs. He will oversee the new program as well as research and develop new opportunities for additional baccalaureate of applied science programs at YVCC. López is an alumnus of YVCC and holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Central Washington University, and a master’s degree in accounting from University of Phoenix.

The program is currently accepting applications for fall 2015. The priority registration deadline is May 5, 2015. For more information visit www.yvcc.edu/bachelors

High School 21+ In January YVCC will launch a new program in the Basic Skills Division. HS21+ allows individuals 21 years or older to apply previously earned high school credit toward a diploma. Students can then earn the rest of the required credits by taking Adult Basic Education classes. As students show competency in specific subject areas, YVCC will grant high school credit. Students are not required to pass the state assessment or complete a senior project. Students may also be able to earn high school credit based on prior knowledge through training and/or work experience. They are required to earn a total of 19 high school credits in the areas of English, math, science, social studies, art, occupational education, health, physical fitness, and chosen electives. Classes completed at YVCC lead directly into credit bearing college courses if students wish to continue their education and earn an associate’s degree.

Classes are being offered on the Yakima and Grandview campuses, as well as at learning centers in Ellensburg, Sunnyside, and Toppenish. For more information visit www.yvcc.edu/basicskills

Did You Know?

YVCC’s Adult Basic Education (ABE) began in the 1970’s as a program to prepare adults for the GED. Today, ABE is just one of the programs offered through YVCC’s Basic Skills Division. Additional programs include: English as a Second Language, GED Preparation, High School 21+, College Alternative Program, and I-BEST. Each year, YVCC’s Basic Skills Division offers a smooth pathway to college for over 2,300 students. In November, the ABE program earned a $60,000 grant from the SBCTC to provide professional development to instructors and help integrate new technology into classroom instruction.

AEROSPACE MACHINING TECHNOLOGY

Students have the opportunity to receive hands-on training and one-on-one instruction in YVCC’s Aerospace Machining Technology Program

Aerospace Machining Technology Offers New Degree Beginning this fall interested students now have the opportunity to pursue an associate of applied science degree in aerospace machining technology. The program also offers certificates in machining technology and computer numerical control (CNC) operation.

YVCC’s degree and certificates prepare students for entry-level positions in the manufacturing industry. Students learn the skills required to plan and carry out the operations needed to make aerospace machined products that meet precise specifications. Course instruction covers blueprint reading, manual machining, computerized machining, metrology, quality control, engineering drawing, CADD and CAM software, as well as CMM programming.

Student Alex Kessinger is working toward the new degree. “I like YVCC’s program because the instructors are very good.

They are willing to talk and work through any problems,” stated Kessinger. “I would definitely recommend this program to others because it provides a great opportunity for anyone to get a very good job. There is a big demand for machinists right now,” he concluded. For more information visit: www.yvcc.edu/machining

New Faculty Add Depth to YVCC’s Program To offer this new degree program, YVCC hired aerospace machining veteran Don Roeber. From a young age Roeber was interested in planes. He followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a career in aerospace machining. Starting out in an entry-level position he worked for several years in Texas at different companies and later as a consultant before being recruited to work in Yakima at Dowty Aerospace. Following 18 years with the company, he went on to work as a network administrator and continued his career at DCS Machining. In 2012 Roeber began teaching for the Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC) who was offering an aerospace machining apprenticeship program in partnership with YVCC. During that same year, YVCC offered its first machining technology certificate and hired Roeber part-time. “I realized how much I enjoyed teaching people,” stated Don Roeber. “I feel that there are some very rewarding opportunities in teaching and feel like it’s my way to give back,” he concluded.

As interest in the program grew, YVCC began offering a CNC operator certificate and this fall launched a new associate of applied science degree in aerospace machining technology. In addition to hiring Roeber full-time, YVCC also hired Stephen Matzcak to co-develop the new curriculum. Matzcak grew up in Rhode Island and spent 18 years in the United States Navy.

During his years of service he had the opportunity to travel and fell in love with the Pacific Northwest. Following his naval career, Stephen decided to relocate to Washington and pursue a degree in machining. He has worked in the industry for several local companies and, like Roeber, began teaching part-time for AJAC and YVCC in 2012. “I love teaching,” stated Stephen Matzcak. “I feel it’s something that I am good at. The most rewarding aspect to me is when you see a student ‘get it’ for the first time,” he continued. In addition to teaching, he also currently works at Pride Polymers, LLC.

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UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH

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YVCC students participate in undergraduate research opportunities in the Yakima Valley and beyond.

YVCC partners with Heritage University to offer funding for these summer research projects through a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

Quadcopter Project with The Nature Conservancy This summer Engineering Instructor Rajkumar Raj worked with students Austin Philipp, Brandon Lowry, Alonzo Rodriguez, and Rheno Prajadipta to build two quadcopter drones for The Nature Conservancy. A quadcopter is a remote-controlled helicopter that is lifted and propelled by four rotors. Aboard the device is a video camera. Aerial footage gathered by the camera is crucial to planning and monitoring forest restoration. The Nature Conservancy’s Senior Forest Ecologist Ryan Haugo hopes to eventually use the drone’s footage to monitor restoration treatments being conducted in the Tieton-Oak Creek watershed.

Botany Research in Arizona and the Yakima Valley Biology Instructor Dr. Matthew Loeser worked with students Kendra Harbour, Brandy Rogers, and Cortnea Austin on two separate research projects.

For the first project, Harbour and Rogers traveled with Loeser to Arizona to catalog the diversity of plants in a grassland experiencing intermittent episodes of drought and grazing. The students studied the ecology of arid systems and learned field botanical techniques.

For the second project, the students worked with Loeser and the US Forest Service to study four hectares of land along the Little Naches River. The group gathered data including diameter, tree vigor, and species. “This research opportunity was beneficial to me,” stated Kendra Harbour. “I got hands-on learning experience and insight for future career possibilities,” she concluded.

Marine Research in the Bahamas Biology Instructor Jerred Seveyka and student Ross Kamimoto joined students and professors from Hunter College and Rockefeller University in their survey of marine ecosystems off the coast of Bimini in the Bahamas. The group’s primary research investigated the group dynamics of Bottlenose and Spotted Dolphins. Seveyka and Kamimoto assisted with environmental and behavioral data collection and worked to identify individual dolphins within the groups. “The program was a great success,” stated Jerred Seveyka. “Ross had the opportunity to conduct his own research, while also assisting the research of others. Beyond that, Ross was exposed to a diverse group of students with different research interests and experiences,” he concluded.

BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT • Botany Research Instructor: Dr. Matthew Loeser Students: Kendra Harbour, Brandy Rogers, Cortnea Austin • Marine Research Instructor: Dr. Jerred Seveyka Student: Ross Kamimoto CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT • Hop Research Instructors: Dr. Sam Mazhari, Dr. Tanya Knickerbocker, Stan Conrad Students: Bernabe de la Cruz, Rheno Prajadipta, Mathew Ellenberger, Jessica Kisner, Jared Ribail, Brandon Spicer, Katie Hovenkotter, Rosalea Burge, Josh Buchanan • Water Quality Instructor: Erik Reierson Students: Lucas Vickers, Nick Mellander, Daniel Whittlesey, Riley Wyatt ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT • Quadcopter Project Instructor: Rajkumar Raj Students: Austin Philipp, Brandon Lowry, Alonzo Rodriguez, Rheno Prajadipta COMMUNITY PARTNERS: Heritage University, John I. Haas, Inc., Toppenish Waste Water Treatment Plant, The Nature Conservancy, US Forest Service, SCW Resource Conservation & Development Council, Hunter College of the City University of New York, Rockefeller University, and Northern Arizona University.

LARSON GALLERY

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From Left to Right: Namaste by Marilyn Farrell Webberley; Looking Up by Rita Gessinger; and We the Jury by Jane Mayer

Visual Voices: Women Painters of Washington This winter the Larson Gallery will host Visual Voices: Women Painters of Washington, an exhibit of paintings by members of Women Painters of Washington (WPW). Founded in 1930, WPW is one of the state’s oldest arts organizations. The organization works to empower professional women artists to create, exhibit, and market their work while fostering art appreciation within their communities and beyond. The founding members of the WPW focused on support for fellow women artists. Contemporary members emphasize cultural exchanges and international exhibitions, and are recognized in the national and international art world.

The Larson Gallery exhibit focuses on identity and empowering marginal voices. An exhibition catalog, Visual Voices, written

by Larson Gallery Director David Lynx and translated by YVCC Spanish Instructor Ricardo Chama will be made available to participating YVCC Spanish, English, art, and humanities classes. The work for the show was provided by a WPW committee.

Lynx then selected pieces to display in the gallery for the exhibit.

Visual Voices: Women Painters of Washington will be on display from January 15 - February 21, 2015. A closing reception will be hosted by the Junior League of Yakima on February 21, 2015 from 3:00-5:00pm. For additional information visit: www.larsongallery.org

59th Annual Central Washington Artists’ Exhibition

Prisoner of Iao by Pat and Karen Miller

On November 1, 2014, the Larson Gallery opened the 59th Annual Central Washington Artists’ Exhibition. The exhibit displayed the work of 53 artists from Yakima, Benton, Kittitas, and Walla Walla counties. Guest juror Michael D’Alessandro selected 83 pieces for the show from over 211 submissions. The exhibit featured a variety of media including acrylic, ceramic, watercolor, glass, jewelry, monoprint, collage, fiber, oil, photography, ink, charcoal, enamel, metals, mixed media, and wood. During the opening reception, 19 awards were presented totaling $4,120.

Michael D’Alessandro is the executive director of the Northwind Arts Center in Port Townsend, Washington. D’Alessandro earned his master of fine arts degree in creative writing from Naropa University and then moved into a career in arts publications after years as an architect. He served as community resource coordinator and development assistant for the Independent Publishing Resource Center in Portland, a non-profit arts organization specializing in resources for writers, publishers, artists, and printers. He has taught creative writing and letterpress printing at the college level and has also worked at the Froelick Gallery in Portland.

Yakima Valley Community College ANNUAL REPORT

Annual Report • Academic Year 2013-2014 Enrollment

Operating Resources 2013-2014

8,805 Annual Headcount 4,461 Full-time Equivalent

$20,000,000

Total $24,761,400

State Operating Funds $16,231,150 66%

Graduating Class of 2014 1,015 total degrees and certificates awarded 548 degrees; associate in arts, business, science 267 degrees; associate of applied science, general 200 certificates; vocational, high school diploma

$15,000,000

Tuition $7,619,960 31%

$10,000,000

Employees 321 Full-Time Employees 38% Faculty 44% Classified 10% Exempt/Professional 8% Administrative

$5,000,000 Local Funds $910,290 4%

0

State & Federal Grants & Contracts 2013-2014 Total $5,022,702

$3,000,000

Financial Aid 2013-2014 Total $27,161,823 $20,000,000

Federal Grants $2,874,857 57%

$2,500,000

$15,000,000

$2,000,000

Local $1,624,932 32%

$10,000,000

$1,500,000

$1,000,000

$500,000

State Grants $522,913 10%

$5,000,000

0 0

Grants and Waivers $17,268,498 64%

Student Loans $7,265,020 27%

Scholarships $1,518,796 6% Outside Agency Work Study $693,009 $416,500 3% 2%

A Look at Our Students Vocational 27%

40 or Above 13%

Academic 40%

Under 20 25%

Multiracial or Other Race African American 2% 2% Asian/Pacific Islander 1% Native American 3%

30-39 16%

Course Type

White 38%

Ethnicity

Age 20-29 46%

Developmental 12%

Hispanic 55%

Basic Skills 21%

College Infrastructure Projects

Palmer Martin Hall Palmer Martin Hall, located on the corner of 16th Avenue and Nob Hill Boulevard, broke ground in November 2013.

This replacement project will build a new 43,853 square foot building to house YVCC’s Art, Modern Languages, Speech, Communications, and Education departments and will include classrooms, labs, faculty offices, and student study space. The project replaces the original Palmer and Martin Halls. The new building was designed by Yakima architects BORAchitecture, PLLC and is being built by Yakima contractor G.H. Moen, LLC. In addition, a 15-kilowatt photovoltaic solar panel array will be installed on the roof.

Timeline

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Construction Began November 2013

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Final Completion April 2015

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Occupancy August 2015

Campus Operations The college is currently in the design phase of a building project to house Campus Operations. The two new buildings will be located on the YVCC Yakima Campus on the block between Hamm and Prash avenues across from the Student Residence Center.

The design includes a 13,144 square foot shop and a 10,236 square foot space for offices. The buildings will house Facility Operations, Grounds, Custodial Services, Security, and the Print Shop. Anticipated occupancy is September 2015.

Memorial Plaza YVCC has completed a new memorial plaza around the base of the Helen Jewett Millennium Clocktower on the YVCC Yakima Campus. Individuals or groups who wish to recognize a deceased YVCC Board of Trustee or YVCC Employee from any of the college’s campuses or education centers now have the option of purchasing an engraved paver. The first set of paver’s were installed in October 2014.

Data for this report provided by the Office of Institutional Effectiveness, Budget Office, Grant Office, Financial Aid, Human Resource Services, and the Vice President for Administrative Services. Sources include: State Board for Community and Technical Colleges Annual Report, Data Warehouse, and Financial Aid Management. Published: December 2014.

Our Focus Mission Statement YVCC enriches and enhances individuals and communities by delivering accessible, student-centered education.

YVCC addresses the needs of its diverse communities by providing learning opportunities in basic literacy; academic, professional, and technical education; and lifelong learning.

Core Theme 1: Community YVCC embraces its role as both a provider of higher education and an employer, and actively seeks partnerships to provide opportunities for the economic, social and cultural development of its students, employees, and communities.

Core Theme 2: Access YVCC provides educational opportunities, enrollment, and support services that facilitate entrance into and success in postsecondary education throughout its service district.

Core Theme 3: Success Students achieve educational goals through completion of courses and programs of study and are prepared to further their life goals through employment, transfer, and participation in the community.

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ATHLETICS

YVCC Women’s Soccer Team

YVCC Women’s Volleyball Team

Soccer The YVCC Women’s Soccer Team had some exciting victories and big games in the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC) this season. Under the direction of Head Coach Peter Monahan the Yaks pulled off upsets over division leaders, former champions, and playoff teams. Unfortunately, the quest for a post-season berth came up four victories shy. “We missed the playoffs by dropping a couple winnable games,” said Peter Monahan. “As easy as it is to dwell on those shortcomings, we need to reflect on the cohesive team play, the competitiveness of this squad, and the victories by such a young squad,” he continued. The Yaks beat a strong Walla Walla team for the first time in school history, on a decisive goal by Sophomore Emma Avalos. Additionally, YVCC recorded victories against Pierce, Clark, Portland, Wenatchee, while tying SW Oregon, and Treasure Valley.

Individual honors went to Freshman Salome Yates, the Yaks dominant midfielder and team captain. She led the region’s midfielders in scoring and was named to the NWAC South-East All-Star Team. “In the All-Star game, Yates scored a goal and assisted on two others, as our region won 5-1,” stated Monahan. “Her electric play was a catalyst for our team every time she stepped on the field,” he continued.

Sophomore Anissa Araiza and Freshmen Samantha Herzog and Rachele Haile were nominated as NWAC All-Region players in the eastern division. Additionally, Sophomore student-athletes Anissa Araiza, and Jocelyne Espinoza were named to the NWAC All-Academic Team.

Volleyball The YVCC Volleyball Team wrapped up their season and have their sights set on next year. “The season started off great, but we kind of lost our way for a while. We righted the ship but then hit the wall in October. I had freshman in key spots. Sometimes that works, sometimes you pay the price,” stated Head Coach Al Rogers. “I’m really looking forward to next season. I have a new assistant coach, Emily Escamilla (Harris) who is an alum of the program,” he concluded.

Individual honors went to Sophomore Ashley Hayes who was named to the All-Academic Team. Sophomore Myleah Musgrave was selected to play in the Sophomore All-Star game for the Eastern Region.

Yaks Give Back to the Community In November YVCC Athletics partnered with Children’s Village Parent to Parent Program to host Mateo’s Mighty Warriors Basketball Camp. Children’s Village Parent to Parent Program offers emotional support and information to families raising children with special health or developmental needs. Men’s and Women’s basketball players volunteered their time and skills creating a day of fun at the Sherar Gym. “After working this camp, I realize how blessed I really am,” said Olashawan Miller, a freshman from Tacoma. “There are so many things I take for granted and these kids helped open my eyes to how lucky I am. I can’t wait to work with these kids again next year!” he continued. Over 30 kids participated.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Welcome Back: This fall the Associated Students of Yakima Valley Community College (ASYVCC) and the Grandview Student Council (GSC) each hosted celebrations to welcome students to campus for the 2014-15 academic year.

Yakima’s celebration served over 730 students and provided them with free lunch and the opportunity to learn about various student clubs and academic programs. “The welcome back social event is important because it gave both new and returning students the opportunity to socialize with one another and participate in the community atmosphere that YVCC has to offer,” stated ASYVCC Secretary Aryell Adams. “The event also gave clubs the chance to mingle with students and hopefully increase their membership,” she continued.

Grandview’s celebration served over 122 students. “It was important to have this event so that the new and returning students could meet and interact with their new student government,” stated GSC President Carlos Correa. “It was a huge hit, students had fun while they enjoyed ice-cream sundaes and met new people,” he continued.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: In October ASYVCC and GSC celebrated Breast Cancer Awareness Month by providing informational booths to explain the importance of preventative care screenings. They also hosted a bake sale, a bra pong game, and sold t-shirts to raise money. In total over $200 was raised for a local woman battling breast cancer. The groups also collected food donations that were given to North Star Lodge.

Disability Awareness Extravaganza: YVCC hosted the second annual Disability Awareness Extravaganza with events on both the Yakima and Grandview campuses.

In Yakima the extravaganza included representatives from local agencies such as the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Department of Services for the Blind, and the Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing which provided information and hands-on activities about various disabilities to help create a better understanding among students. “The students that participated really enjoyed the ability to learn about and experience different kinds of disabilities,” stated ASL Interpreter Coordinator Ashley Jaramillo. “We had a total of 6 agencies represented at the event and all felt that the students were genuinely interested in their services and eagerly asked questions,” she concluded. Yakima also hosted Motivational Speaker Steve Ferreia who spoke about life with cerebral palsy in his talk, Understanding Life with Disability.

In Grandview GSC hosted Motivational Speaker and Comedian Debbie Wooten. An expert at overcoming adversity, Debbie was born with Spina Bifida and contracted Polio when she was just five months old. Growing up she experienced poverty, racism, abuse, and family suicide. In addition, GSC hosted disability simulations of physical, mental, communication disabilities, and autism. “Our goal in hosting these activities was to show students the struggle of people with disabilities, and provide them the opportunity to hear a personal experience,” stated GSC President Carlos Correa.

Blood Drive: This fall ASYVCC and GSC hosted blood drives to benefit the American Red Cross. ASYVCC’s collected donations from 22 people, enough blood to help save up to 66 lives. GSC’s drive was also a great success, the group collected donations from 23 people, enough blood to save up to 69 lives. For their efforts the GSC was recently honored with Blood Drive of the Month from The American Red Cross. The American Red Cross collects approximately 5.6 million blood donations per year, which help support many lifesaving medical treatments and procedures which involve blood transfusions.

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LGBTQ History Month: In October GSC celebrated LGBTQ History Month in honor of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender history and the history of the gay rights and civil rights movements. The celebration included a film showing of MILK the story of Harvey Milk. The film follows his life as he is being elected as the first openly gay man voted into a major public office in America.

It also showcases the struggle that the LGBTQ community went through during this time period. “This film shows the hate that was present during this time period. Looking back today we can see how much we’ve grown as a society,” stated GSC President Carlos Correa. “Growth is not a limited opportunity, we wanted our students to not only see how much we have grown and how important this topic is, but to also see that we still have a lot of growing to do,” he concluded.

SPARKS: This past summer YVCC’s Arts and Sciences Division, in partnership with the Yakima School District, hosted the Students Preparing and Reaching Key Skills (SPARKS) program on the Yakima Campus. YVCC biology instructors Claire Carpenter and Jeremy Buegge, along with YVCC mathematics instructors Michal Ramos and George Lopez developed and implemented a one-week educational program that helped prepare high school students for math and science at the college level. In addition, four Central Washington University students working toward their teaching certification served as teaching assistants. In total 15 high school students attended. “The SPARKS program provided students with a unique opportunity to experience the college environment while helping them succeed with their high school requirements,” stated Claire Carpenter. “Most students found the program to be both helpful and interesting,” she concluded.

Wine Award Milestone: YVCC’s Vineyard and Winery Technology students and YVCC’s Teaching Winery, Yakima Valley Vintners, recently celebrated an important milestone. The program reached the mark of receiving over 50 awards for their wines.

There is no special category for student-produced wine, so Yakima Valley Vintners compete in blind-tastings with commercial wineries throughout the state.

“Competing in commercial competitions and winning awards validates the quality of the student-produced wines which is exciting as the students prepare to enter the profession,” stated YVCC Agriculture Department Head Trent Ball. “We typically only submit to 3-4 wine competitions annually, such as the Tri-Cities Wine Festival, Washington State Wine Competition, and the Seattle Wine Awards. So to achieve this many awards with only three competitions each year is a great achievement for the students,” he continued.

The most recent awards include two Gold Award(s) from the 2014 Tri-Cities Wine Festival for the 2011 Midterm Merlot and the 2012 Red Backpack. Additional 2014 Tri-Cities Wine Festival awards include two Silver Medals for 2012 Graduates Last Hyrah Syrah, 2012 Dean’s List Primitivo and a Bronze Medal for the 2013 Easy A Chardonnay. For additional information: www.yvcc.edu/wine Playmasters: This fall YVCC playmasters held their production of Very Still and Hard to See directed by YVCC Drama Instructor Alicia Bickley. Set in an old hotel and incorporating elements from Japanese horror mythology, Very Still and Hard to See is both a ghost story and a cautionary tale about humans versus nature. Through a series of short, and sometimes terrifying vignettes, the play introduced evil in a variety of disguises both natural and supernatural. “I selected this production because I had recently responded to a production at Bellevue College and one of the student directors told me about a play he had just directed. He went on to describe some of the scenes and it sounded like something my students would find intriguing,” stated Alicia Bickley. “I think the actors responded to this work because it allowed them to explore characters very unlike themselves. And it is creepy as heck,” she concluded.

STUDENT VOICES Katie Hovenkotter Katie Hovenkotter was born in Yakima, Washington and attended West Valley School District. As a junior she decided to enroll at YVCC through the Running Start Program. “I’ve always known that I wanted to attend Running Start,” stated Katie Hovenkotter. “Being at YVCC makes me realize that the college does not fit the typical stereotype of a community college. The courses are smaller and more personal, but still very rigorous.

Instructors here are so passionate about what they do. They want students to learn, and not just pass a class,” she continued.

Katie has also been active on campus serving as the president of the Pre-Med Club and as a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. In addition, she had the opportunity to participate in a summer research opportunity through a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) grant with Heritage University.

“Participating in summer research helped me focus my career aspirations. It also allowed me to gain experience with research and working in a lab setting,” she concluded.

She will graduate with an associate of arts transfer degree and high school diploma. Following YVCC she plans to attend Central Washington University to complete her bachelor’s degree in biology.

Her future plans include attending Eastern Washington University’s Physical Therapy Program. Ultimately, she hopes to work with wounded veterans.

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FACULTY HIGHLIGHT

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Steven Slusher Steven Slusher has a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance from Ohio Northern University, and a master’s degree in choral conducting from Southern Illinois University. Now in his second year at YVCC as a part-time faculty member in the Humanities Department, Slusher directs the choir and teaches private voice. He also teaches full-time at Toppenish High School and serves as the choir director.

What made you interested in this field?

“Music has been a part of my life ever since I can remember. My mother always loved music and exposed me to it. We danced and sang around the house when I was young. I chose this career because music rocks. Even on my worst day, I still get to make music.”

What made you interested in teaching?

“Teaching comes natural to me. I love to see the light bulbs go off in my students’ heads. If I can share even a small part of my passion with them, then the world will be a better place.”

What is the most rewarding aspect of teaching?

“The most rewarding thing to me is seeing students grow both personally and musically.

Most of my former students have surpassed me professionally, which just makes me the happiest man alive. I love seeing them work hard and achieve goals they set. It is so rewarding to see students accomplish more than they thought possible.”

FOUNDATION + ALUMNI

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YVCC Foundation honors Ann Miller Ann Miller, a member of the YVCC Foundation Board of Directors was honored in November with the annual Director of the Year Award. A long-standing friend of the college, Miller has served on the Foundation Board since 2005. She is also a former Trustee and served on the YVCC Board from 1994-2003.

Her work with the YVCC Foundation includes co-chairing two committees: the Nominating Committee, which works to identify and recommend new board members to serve on the YVCC Foundation, and the Awards Committee, which selects recipients for the annual Robert M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching Award and the Darlene Koch Classified Employee of the Year Award. She also helps to review over 300 student scholarship applications submitted each year. “Ann is very easy to work with, and has always provided much-needed support to the Foundation and its efforts,” stated YVCC Foundation Executive Director Stacey Kautz. “It is an honor to present this award to her,” she concluded.

Scholarship Donations Ann Miller

Each year the YVCC Foundation provides over $200,000 in student scholarships. If you are interested in donating please consider making a tax-deductible gift to the YVCC Foundation. For more information contact Executive Director Stacey Kautz at 574.4645 or skautz@yvcc.edu

Alumni Highlight: Aaron Lee

Aaron Lee

Aaron Lee was born and raised in the Seattle area and graduated from Ballard High School. In the fall of 2008 he and his wife moved to the Yakima Valley with the goal of starting a family. It was during this time Lee decided to pursue his passion of working on cars and enrolled in YVCC’s Automotive Service Technology (AST) Program.

At YVCC Lee excelled in his coursework. “I chose YVCC’s AST program because of the state-of-the-art equipment, small class size, and program material.

The instructors are great and really know their stuff,” stated Aaron Lee. Interested in participating in student life, Aaron was also involved with the AST Student Club. He served as treasurer. “Overall, I think YVCC’s program did a good job of preparing me to enter the workforce,” concluded Lee. Aaron graduated with an associate of applied science degree in automotive service technology. He currently works in his field at KARS Kinmark Auto and RV Service in Yakima, Washington. To learn more about YVCC’s AST Program visit www.yvcc.edu/auto

Now Accepting Nominations: YVCC’s Distinguished Alumnus Nominate a YVCC alum for the annual Distinguished Alumnus Award given each June by the YVCC Alumni Association. Nominations are due by February 28, 2015.

For criteria and additional information: 574.6872 or www.yvcc.edu/alumni

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PEOPLE Agriculture Department Head Trent Ball recently presented at the Washington State Grape Society’s annual meeting in Grandview, Washington. Ball reported on juice and wine grape production and the economic outlook for the 2014 crop.

Music Instructor David Blink spent his summer performing and traveling to Mexico, Ireland, England, and Wales. At each location, he recorded with a hand-pan. He created an audio journal of his journeys and performances and made them available online.

Visit: https://soundcloud.com/david-blink

Political Science Instructor Tim Jeske recently attended the Pacific Northwest Political Science Association conference in Bend, Oregon. At the conference Jeske presented Teaching Diversity to Diverse Students. His presentation focused on the importance of helping diverse students at YVCC appreciate different perspectives on political problems not only from the perspective of their own class, race, or gender but also to explore the same issues through the lenses of other race, ethnic communities, gender, and LGBTQ people.

Terri Ryan

English Instructor Duane Reed and long-time friend John Watje recently exhibited their work in Mt. Hood Community College’s Visual Arts Gallery. The connection between Reed and Watje began when they were both together in Vietnam and became interested in photography. Reed went on to become a photographer, and Watje ultimately embraced wood carving and Native American art.

Their exhibit was titled, Common Origins – Diverging Directions.

Congratulations to Library & Archives Paraprofessional II Terri Ryan. She is the award recipient of the Fall 2014 Classified Employee of the Quarter. Ryan works in the Library and Media Services. She began working for the college in 2006.

Biology Instructor Blair Shean recently completed the Emergency Medical Technician course taught by the Yakima County Department of Emergency Medical Services. Shean is now a nationally registered (NREMT) and licensed by the State of Washington to practice. Shean wanted to expand his level of involvement with Yakima County Search and Rescue as well as enhance his teaching of human anatomy and physiology by giving him more exposure to the emergency side of pre-hospital care.

Facility Operations: Director of Facility Operations Jeff Wood, Maintenance Mechanic II Rudy Perez, and Maintenance Mechanic II Chris Liersemann recently attended a boiler class held at Cascadia Community College. In addition Rudy Perez, Chris Liersemann, Maintenance Mechanic I Jeff Turner, and Assistant Director of Facility Operations Casey Rice along with custodians Gene Gandy, Rey Vaca, and Sean Rutz attended the Washington State Department of Health’s 2014 Environmental Health and Safety Workshops. In addition, Facility Operations Secretary Senior Melissa Rowan attended the Department of Enterprise Services training.

Nursing Program: Instructor Wendy Baker was accepted into the University of Washington’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program.

Instructor Michelle Closner attended the Washington State Nurses Association workshop on Leadership at the Point of Care – Delegation, Supervision, and Critical Thinking. Instructor Liz Swisher attended a workshop by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing on NCLEX style test construction. Instructor Rhonda Taylor was reappointed to the National Examination Committee for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. In addition, Nursing Student Matthew Bowen was recently featured in the Washington Center for Nursing newsletter. His article, The Road to RN: A Student Nurse Perspective, was included in the June edition of the publication. To read Bowen’s story visit: www.yvcc.edu/studentnurse Social Science: Anthropology Instructor Eric Anderson and History Instructor Ken Zontek recently published book reviews in the Pacific Northwest Quarterly (Winter 2013/2014, Volume 105, Number 1).The scholarly journal of northwest history is published

by University of Washington. Zontek reviewed Indian Resilience and Rebuilding; Indigenous Nations in the Modern American West

by Donald L. Fixico and Anderson reviewed Coming Full Circle: Spirituality and Wellness among Native Communities in the Pacific Northwest by Suzanne Crawford O’Brien.

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