Campus Update Spring 2011

Calendar July 13-16: Volleyball Camp Grades 5-8 & 9-12

Looking for something exciting this summer? Join YVCC for individual skills volleyball camps. Fundamentals covered include: passing, hitting, defense, serving, and receiving. Cost is $85 per 3-day session.

For more information: 509.930.1576 / morozzo.nicole@gmail.com.

July 16 & 17: The Painterly Print Mixed Media Monotype

The Larson Gallery presents The Painterly Print Mixed Media Monotype with April Richardson. In this workshop participants will learn additive and subtractive, and drawing transfer techniques. For more information: 509.574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org.

July 18-21: Volleyball Camp Grades 5-8 & 9-12

Looking for something exciting this summer? Join YVCC for individual skills volleyball camps. Fundamentals covered include: passing, hitting, defense, serving, and receiving. Cost is $85 per 3-day session.

For more information: 509.930.1576 / morozzo.nicole@gmail.com.

July 21 & 22: Papermaking for Adults (& Kids 12+)

The Larson Gallery presents Papermaking for Adults (& Kids 12+) with Julie Georgiades. In this workshop participants will use mold and deckle with recycled papers to create their own individual and unique sheets of handmade paper. For more information: 509.574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org.

July 23: Introduction to Yupo Paper

The Larson Gallery presents Introduction to Yupo Paper with Carol Hassen & Bob Fisher. This workshop will explore different applications for yupo to painting, drawing, mixed media and collage. Participants will experiment on yupo paper with these various techniques. For more information: 509.574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org.

September 12: Grandview Library Grand Opening

Join us for the grand opening of the new city/college library on the Grandview Campus. The library will serve the residents of Grandview and surrounding communities as well as YVCC students. For more information: 509.882.7000.

September 15: Welcome Event

The fall Welcome Event will be held September 15 from 1:00-3:00pm in the HUB. The event provides new students the opportunity to complete last-minute preparations for fall quarter such as: buying books, finding class locations, obtaining parking permits, learning about club participation opportunities, and more. Students are invited to drop-in anytime during the event hours. For more information: www.yvcc.edu/calendar.

September 19: Fall Quarter Begins

First day of classes for fall quarter 2011 begin on September 19.

New students must apply by August 11. For more information: www.yvcc.edu.

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On the Cover

Contents

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President’s Letter Campus News Commencement Student Highlights Economic Contributions of YVCC Student Scholarships Athletics - Women’s Softball & Men’s Baseball Athletics - Athletes of the Year Department of Visual Arts Exhibit - Larson Gallery Student Accomplishments Sharing Good News

Art Appreciation Day at YVCC

YVCC, in partnership with Ridgeview Elementary, hosted the annual Art Appreciation Day. Designed to help inspire Yakima Valley youth, participants visit the YVCC Yakima Campus to learn about drama, art, and music.

Pictured left: Larson Gallery Director Cheryl H. Hahn talks with students in the Larson Gallery.

Produced by YVCC Community Relations Niki Hopkins & Stefanie Menard Published July 2011 If you would like to be added or removed from our mailing list, please contact us: Yakima Valley Community College Office of Community Relations PO Box 22520 • Yakima, WA 98907-2520 email: publications@yvcc.edu / 509.574.4646

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YVCC Running Start students Sam Johnson and Maira Rodriguez celebrate at YVCC’s commencement ceremony on Parker Field.

Both students earned their high school diploma and associate degree this June.

Message from the President

Campus News

Trustee Paul McDonald

YVCC Trustee Mr. Paul McDonald received his associate of applied science degree in winery technology during YVCC’s 82nd commencement ceremony in June.

McDonald (left), is congratulated by board members Patricia Whitefoot and Board Chair James Carvo.

McDonald was appointed to the YVCC Board of Trustees in 2005. He is a orchardist in Wapato. He attended classes on the Grandview Campus through the YVCC Vineyard & Winery Technology Program.

In spite of an ominous dark cloud that hovered overhead during the entire ceremony, we managed to celebrate our 82nd commencement ceremony, the fourteenth consecutive event held on Parker Field with no rain save a few scattered drops. More importantly, we had the largest number of graduates participate in the ceremony in the history of YVCC. Two hundred and eighty five graduates participated (compared to 246 last year) from a total 2011 graduating class of 858.

The eighteen year olds and septuagenarian, the students of various ethnic heritage, the Grandview students and the Yakima students, those aspiring to start their careers and those planning to transfer to universities, those who celebrated their high school graduation as they earned their college degrees and those who have been out of high school for over twenty years – each one shared the same feelings of exhilaration, accomplishment, and empowerment. Many are students who have overcome real barriers and self-doubts to achieve their educational and professional goals. Their families and friends filled the stands and cheered as their names were announced and walked past the podium to receive their certificates and degrees. In this issue of the Campus Update, you will learn more about the many journeys some of these students have travelled on the way to their graduation.

Spring is also a time to recognize individuals for their outstanding performance and extraordinary contributions of time and expertise to the college. In addition to awarding our students their degrees at commencement, awards were presented to recognize excellence in our faculty, support staff, alumni, and community. Many of our student-athletes along with students from YVCC’s workforce education programs were also recognized this spring for their amazing performance in various competitive events.

YVCC recently contracted with a research organization that analyzed the financial and social benefits the college has on the communities it serves. We have included a special section in this issue which provides some of the results of this study regarding the economic impact that YVCC has on the communities in our three-county district. We hope that you will agree that YVCC is a major asset to economic vitality of our valley.

We hope you enjoy reading about the many activities and people at YVCC in this issue of the Campus Update. As always, we thank you for your continued support, collaboration, and commitment to higher education.

Sincerely,

Linda J. Kaminski, Ed.D. President

Board of Trustees: James Carvo • Paul McDonald • Robert Ozuna • Lisa Parker • Patricia Whitefoot 3

Accreditation

YVCC Prepares for Site Visit Since 1948 Yakima Valley Community College has been accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The accreditation process recognizes higher education institutions for performance, integrity, and quality. Last reaffirmed in 2006, the college is preparing for its next full-scale evaluation which includes the submission of a comprehensive institutional self-study, together with a site visit by a team of evaluators. The site visit will be conducted October 10-12, 2011. Upon completion, the self-study will be available for public review on the college’s website.

An important aspect of colleges and universities, accreditation qualifies institutions and enrolled students for access to federal funds to support teaching, research, and student financial aid.

The public is invited to provide written comments concerning the institution’s qualifications for accreditation. The commission requests that public comments be addressed to the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, 8060 165th Ave NE, Suite 100, Redmond, WA 98052-3981. Comments must be received by the commission on or before September 10, 2011. For more information on the college’s accreditation, contact the Vice President for Instruction and Student Services at 509.574.4640.

Check it Out!

Campus Memorials

YVCC’s History Remembered

Kent State Memorial

Kent State Memorial: On May 4 YVCC held a rededication ceremony of the Kent State Memorial. Originally dedicated in April of 1970, a tree was planted as a reminder to all students and staff of the Vietnam War and as a remembrance of the students killed in the Kent State University shooting. Located in the expanded footprint of Raymond Hall, the tree was removed during the renovation of the building and a new tree was planted this spring.

Larson Memorial: The Larson Memorial was recently rejuvenated with a thorough cleaning and a fresh coat of paint thanks to the work of Facilities Operations staff John Mertell and George Torrez. In memory of Adelbert E. Larson, the memorial stands as a reminder of the generous donation Rose B. Larson and her son Shirley D. Parker, made to the city of Yakima and YVCC through land donations. The memorial is located on Arlington Avenue near the entrance of Dunbar Field.

Outreach & Multicultural Services Center Opens

Larson Memorial

Student Success at the Forefront of the Center’s Goals This spring YVCC expanded the office of Outreach & Multicultural Services to include a student-focused center located in the Hopf Union Building on the Yakima Campus. Outreach and Multicultural Services facilitates the retention and outreach to students of color, and designed the center to be used by students to network with each other and to connect with campus resources. A comfortable gathering place where students can share experiences, study, and have access to support, the center hopes to become a bridge for students to the general campus community. With a focus on combating the obstacles students experience in school and in the community, Outreach & Multicultural Services develops educational programming and networking opportunities to promote positive changes in attitudes and behaviors in how students approach their academic careers. The center is open to all current and future students.

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YVCC’s 82nd Commencement Celebrating the Class of 2011

On June 9 YVCC celebrated its 82nd commencement with keynote speaker Dr. Gary K. Ostrander, vice chancellor of research and graduate education at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. An alumnus of YVCC, Ostrander was honored to return to YVCC and deliver its commencement address.

During the ceremony YVCC awarded 967 degrees and certificates to 858 students ranging in age from 18 to 74.

The class of 2011 also heard from student Laura J. Yolo. A nontraditional student, Laura began her journey at YVCC over two decades ago. “The first time I stepped foot onto the YVCC campus I was an eighteen year old pursuing my GED. That was 24 years ago,” stated Yolo. During this time she overcame many personal obstacles before returning to school. “During the interim between studying for the GED and returning to college I raised a family, buried a son, lost a marriage and a career, watched my house burn to the ground, and welcomed grandchildren into the world,” she continued.

Facing the back-to-back losses inspired her to create a new path for her life.

Returning to YVCC in 2009, she earned her GED and transitioned to college coursework with the dream of one-day earning the education that she had set out for years earlier. She graduated with an associate in arts degree. This fall she will transfer to Central Washington University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature.

In addition to YVCC’s commencement ceremony, many of YVCC’s workforce education programs held completion ceremonies to recognize graduates for their success. These graduates are essential to our economy as they provide skilled workers for career fields that are much needed in our community and around the country.

Helping to train students in the healthcare industry, YVCC’s Nursing Program held a pinning ceremony to celebrate the 52 students graduating from their program this year. With students from all over Washington State and from countries such as Korea, China, Japan, Africa, Venezuela, and Argentina, YVCC’s program continues to provide quality graduates for work around the world. Following completion these graduates take a national licensing exam. Last year the program boasted a 94% pass rate.

The YVCC Veterinary Technology Program also celebrated their graduates with a pinning ceremony. Over the past five years program graduates have earned an average pass rate of 96%. “We have students currently from as far away as Alaska and New York. Graduates are also doing externships around the state, plus Hawaii, Oregon, and Idaho,” stated Dr. Sue Wedam, veterinary technology program coordinator. These graduates have also been successful in helping to fill the demand for veterinary technologists with nearly 100% finding work.

Another workforce program that continues to be successful with a 100% pass rate over the last five years is YVCC’s Dental Hygiene Program.

Many of these students are from the local region, but over half come from other parts of Washington or out of state to study. This year the program graduated 14 students. “Graduates are well versed in the use of technological advances currently incorporated into patient care practices including digital radiography and paperless charting techniques,” stated Cheri Podruzny, dental hygiene program coordinator.

YVCC congratulates all of our graduates and wishes them continued success in the future.

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Leslie Eglin

Millie Stenehjem

Dr. Lloyd Butler

Dr. Kelley DeNome John Mertell

Commencement Awards YVCC Recognizes the Contributions of Faculty, Staff and Community Members Faculty Emeritus: YVCC is pleased to honor Ms. Leslie Eglin as the 2011 Faculty Emeritus. An Adult Basic Skills Instructor, Eglin has taught math, reading, study skills, and writing across all divisions of the college. She is respected by her colleagues for her work and her constant commitment to student success. With over 30 years of service to YVCC and its students, she retired in June. She plans to spend more time with family, golfing, and volunteering in the community. She is also looking forward to an upcoming trip with her daughter to the East Coast in August.

Distinguished Alumnus: Dr. Lloyd Butler is this year’s recipient of the YVCC Distinguished Alumnus Award. Butler, interim president of the Pacific Northwest University of Health Science, graduated from Yakima Valley Community College in 1965. He completed his pre-medical studies at Central Washington University. In 1971 he graduated from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and did his post-doctoral training at Mesa General Hospital in Arizona. He practiced osteopathic family medicine for 32 years in Sunnyside before retiring. He is well known for his community involvement and serves on numerous boards for the Yakima Valley community.

Distinguished Service: YVCC is honored to present Ms. Mildred (Millie) Stenehjem with the 2011 Distinguished Service Award.

A familiar face on campus, Stenehjem taught full-time at YVCC for 27 years and then continued to teach part-time for several years. Officially retiring in 2002, she continues to be involved in campus groups and activities including serving as YVCC’s Alumni Association President for over 10 years and working with the music department’s annual Madrigal Feaste event. This past year, with the passing of former colleague and friend Dr. George Meshke, she volunteered countless hours to help review and organize over 40 years of drama department memorabilia, preparing it for the college’s archives.

Robert M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching: This year’s recipient of the Robert M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching Award, presented by the YVCC Foundation, is Dr. Kelley DeNome. Joining YVCC in 1999, Dr. DeNome teaches in the Veterinary Technology Program.

A dedicated instructor, Kelley spends countless hours with both students and animals, making sure that both are nurtured. In addition, Kelley was instrumental in developing a relationship with the Humane Society of Central Washington which benefits students and local area animals by creating clinic-like teaching situations in a hands-on format. Kelley and her husband, Andy, are looking forward to their upcoming trip to Mongolia with the Christian Veterinary Mission. While in Mongolia they will travel to rural areas helping Monogolian veterinarians care for animals.

Classified Employee of the Year: The YVCC Foundation is proud to honor Mr. John Mertell with the Darlene Koch Classified Employee of the Year Award. Mertell is a valuable member of YVCC’s Facilities Operations Department working as a Maintenance Mechanic 2. During his nearly 32 years, Mertell has held many positions including gardener, utility worker, and maintenance mechanic. In addition to working at YVCC, John and his wife, Debbie, run a part-time custodial business. They are also co-owners, with nearly 1,200 other wine enthusiasts, of Silver Lake Winery in Zillah, one of the largest locally owned wineries in the state.

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Jordyn Martinez; 20 Overcoming a troubled past, Jordyn Martinez enrolled at YVCC with no real direction or idea on where her life might lead. A single mother looking to provide a better life for her daughter, Martinez realized that working as a waitress would not provide the opportunities she needed. Without a specific degree in mind she began taking classes. Martinez quickly learned that she had a love for science, and that she excelled at it, so she decided to work toward an associate in arts, science option degree. Martinez received support from various campus departments and credits some of her success to the inspiration and help of science faculty, specifically Claire Carpenter and Kathy Ashworth. “YVCC is the foundation of my education. I didn’t know what potential I had until I came here,” stated Martinez. “The college has opened doors for me that I never knew existed. YVCC is full of so many people that work to help students, like me, succeed,” she continued.

She graduated in June from YVCC with high honors and an overall GPA of 3.93. This fall Martinez will transfer to the University of Washington School of Nursing. She hopes to stay and work in the Seattle area following her degree and one day to pursue a graduate degree.

Student Highlights Seth Martin; 18 Looking to expand his opportunities, Seth Martin enrolled in YVCC’s Running Start Program. Quickly adapting to college life and different teaching styles, he enjoyed professors like Doug Lewis, Dan Peters, and Ken Zontek. A high achiever, Seth was selected by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to receive the Gates Millennium Scholarship. “I feel very fortunate to have received this funding, out of more than 20,000 students who apply each year,” stated Martin. The scholarship, given to 1,000 students annually, provides full-tuition to students to use at any college or university of their choice. Martin was accepted to several ivy league schools across the country. “I would not have been able to get into the schools I did without YVCC’s Running Start Program. I would definitely recommend this program to others,” continued Martin.

In addition to excelling academically, Seth is committed to improving his community. This past year he volunteered with the Youth for Community Growth: Teens Reviving Equality for Everyone a program sponsored by Yakima Valley Systems of Care. This program focuses on empowering youth in our community through advocacy and training to become a positive role model, and to promote youth programming.

In June Seth completed his time at YVCC 5 credits shy of an associate degree. In the fall he will transfer to Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. He plans to complete his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with minors in aerospace engineering and business. Later he plans to pursue a master’s degree. His dream is to work for SpaceX, a commercial space transport company.

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Larry Boss; 44 Struggling with the effects of a difficult economy, Larry Boss was laid-off from a local television station after more than 17 years of service. Needing to update his skills, he enrolled at YVCC through the Worker Retraining Program. The one-quarter program provides a starting point for students who are unemployed or have lost their jobs. Boss also qualified for WorkSource’s state-funded Dislocated Worker Program. The Dislocated Worker Program provides students, like Larry, with training needed to learn a new career and to reenter the workforce. “I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish my goals without YVCC’s Worker Retraining Program and the support of WorkSource’s Dislocated Worker Program,” stated Boss. He had an interest in computers, and decided to pursue a degree in information technology and was pleased with the program. “I like the Information Technology Program because I fit right into it. It was something I had prior knowledge of and that I enjoy. I have a great respect for all of the instructors at YVCC, they are very helpful,” he continued.

Larry graduated winter quarter with an associate of applied science degree in information technology general and information technology support specialist with a certificate in information technology office suite. After completing his degree he worked part-time in YVCC’s Information Technology Department helping to mentor and tutor students before being hired full-time in May by Yakima’s Efcom. At Efcom, Larry works as a hardware technician.

Robyn Webb; 40 Leaving home at the age of 13, Robyn Webb fell into a self-destructive pattern of alcohol and drug abuse that continued for many years. Recognizing the need for change in her life she enrolled at Edmonds Community College to earn her GED, got married, and had a child. Never able to completely give up her addiction, she eventually spiraled back out of control, her marriage ended, and she lost her job. A short time later, facing warrants from previous drug charges, Webb was arrested at her home. While incarcerated she signed away her parental rights, and her daughter went to live with her brother.

Once released, she continued her decline, and tried to fill the emptiness left by losing her daughter. Then in April of 2005, Webb found out she was pregnant with her second child.

Struggling with the pregnancy, she planned to have an abortion.

At the clinic she had an ultrasound and experienced what she called ‘a moment of clarity’. The following day she enrolled at Sundown M Ranch, and was immediately admitted. Completing the program Webb returned to Ellensburg, had her son, and was hired at Sundown as a chemical dependency professional trainee.

She has been clean and sober for nearly 6 years. To further her ability to help at Sundown, she enrolled in YVCC’s Chemical Dependency Program.

Webb graduated this past June with a certificate in chemical dependency studies. She is now eligible to take the Washington State Department of Health Chemical Dependency Professional exam. Once passed, she will be certified as a chemical dependency professional and will be able to independently counsel other addicts to overcome their addiction. “I lived that life for 23 years. If I can be part of someone else making that change in their life, it would be huge,” stated Webb. “I have so much gratitude in my life today. The accomplishments and achievements I’ve made in such a short time, I’m honored to be able to share my story to help others,“ she concluded.

The Economic Contributions of YVCC YVCC was founded in 1928 and serves Kittitas, Yakima, and part of Klickitat counties. Committed to its mission, the college strives to enrich and enhance individuals and communities by delivering accessible, student-centered education.

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

This past March the college, in conjunction with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, worked with Economic Modeling Specialists (EMSI), Inc. to research and report on the economic contributions of YVCC. In this study, EMSI applied a comprehensive model designed to quantify the economic benefits of YVCC to its community expressed in common sense cost/benefit and investment terms.

The study includes two major analyses: • Economic Growth Analysis: Measures added income in the region due to college operations, student spending, and the accumulated skills of past and present students still in the workforce. • Investment Analysis: Treats education funding as an investment, calculating all measurable returns and comparing them to costs, from the perspectives of students, taxpayers, and society as a whole.

YVCC ECONOMIC IMPACT ANALYSIS AT A GLANCE Added Income College operations effect Student spending effect

$28,353,000 $365,000

Total spending effect Student productivity effect

$28,717,000 $123,439,000

GRAND TOTAL

$152,156,000

Total added income in YVCC Service Area due to YVCC

Spending Effect, $28.7 million

Productivity Effect, $123.4 million

About the Study: The study is conducted by EMSI, Inc. and was published in March 2011. Data sources include, but are not limited to, 2009-10 academic and financial reports from the college and from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), industry and employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, earnings and demographic data from the U.S. Census Bureau, and a variety of studies and surveys relating education to social behavior.

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YAKIMA VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Overview Fact Sheet

ECONOMIC IMPACT

Yakima Valley Community College plays a significant role in the local economy and is a sound investment from multiple perspectives. Students benefit from improved lifestyles and increased earnings. Taxpayers benefit from a larger economy and lower social costs. Finally, the community as a whole benefits from increased job and investment opportunities, higher business revenues, greater availability of public funds, and an eased tax burden.

ECONOMIC GROWTH ANALYSIS

INVESTMENT ANALYSIS

College Operations Effect • The YVCC Service Area economy annually receives roughly $28.4 million in income due to YVCC operations. This is a conservative figure adjusted to account for monies that leave the economy or are withdrawn from the economy in support of the college.

Student Perspective • YVCC served 12,738 students in the 2009-10 reporting year.

• Education increases lifetime income. The average income at the career midpoint of someone with an associate’s degree in the YVCC Service Area is $37,100, 35% more than a student with a high school diploma.

• Throughout his or her working career, the average YVCC student’s discounted lifetime income increases by $6.30 for every dollar invested in YVCC. • Students enjoy an attractive 19.6% average rate of return on their YVCC educational investment, recovering all costs (including tuition, fees, and forgone wages) in 7.6 years.

Student Spending Effect • Approximately 0.4% of students attending YVCC are out-ofstate students. These students bring with them revenue that would not have otherwise entered the local economy.

• The expenditures of YVCC‘s out-of-state students generate roughly $365,000 in added income in the YVCC Service Area each year.

Productivity Effect • The current YVCC Service Area economy embodies an estimated 1.7 million credits that have accumulated over the past 30-year period as thousands of former YVCC students (completers and non-completers) enter the workforce year after year.

• YVCC skills translate to higher earnings for students and increased output of businesses. The added income attributable to the accumulation of YVCC credits in the workforce amounts to around $123.4 million each year.

The average annual added income due to the activities of YVCC and its former students equals $152.2 million.

Total Effect • Altogether, the average annual added income due to the activities of YVCC and its former students equals $152.2 million. This is approximately equal to 1.8% of the total YVCC Service Area economy.

Social Perspective • Higher earnings of YVCC students and associated increases in state income expand the tax base in Washington by about $22.2 million each year.

• Washington will see avoided social costs amounting to $1.2 million per year due to YVCC students, including savings associated with improved health, reduced crime, and reduced welfare and unemployment.

Taxpayer Perspective • State government allocated approximately $30.3 million in support of YVCC in FY 2009-10.

• For every dollar of this support, taxpayers see a cumulative return of $1.30 over the course of students’ working careers (in the form of higher tax receipts and avoided costs).

• YVCC generates a 4.6% return on investment to state and local taxpayers. This return compares very favorably with private sector rates of return on similar long-term investments.

YVCC generates a 4.6% return on investment to state and local taxpayers.

Report Published March 2011 by EMSI, Inc.

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Student Scholarships

Foundation Awards $200,000 in Student Scholarships

Ashley Hatfield

This spring the Yakima Valley Community College Foundation hosted its 15th Annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony. During the ceremony President Glenn Rasmussen and the Foundation Board of Directors presented 115 students with scholarships totaling $200,000.

Since 1977 the Foundation has awarded more than 4,100 scholarships to students, totaling more than $2.4 million. This year donors provided funding for 135 scholarships making it possible for the Foundation to award students financial support in their pursuit of higher education. For more information about the YVCC Foundation or to become a donor call 509.574.4645.

VP Scholarship This spring YVCC announced that Ashley Hatfield was awarded the 2011-2012 Vice President for Instruction and Student Services Scholarship.

Awarded annually through the YVCC Foundation, this scholarship provides $1,000 to a full-time YVCC student who has demonstrated academic achievement.

A graduate of Selah High School, Ashley Hatfield is very deserving of this award. Involved both at school and in the community, she has proven to be a positive role model for children and her peers. Maintaining a 3.86 GPA, she has earned membership in the National Honor Society. While a senior she was a varsity cheerleader, the ASB Vice-President, Family Career and Community Leaders of America member, and a member of Selah High School’s Senior Council. In the community she has helped with collecting donations for Memorial Hospital’s ‘Ohana Mammography Center and the Selah Food Bank.

She has also participated in Kiwanis’ Aktion Club, a program that supports individuals with developmental disabilities and has helped organize, contribute, and deliver supplies to needy families through the local Adopt a Family project. For her school and community involvement, Hatfield has received numerous awards including: WIAA Outstanding Scholastic Award, Principal’s Honor Award, Citizenship Award, The Masonic Education Council’s Outstanding Junior Achievement Award, Scholar Athlete Award, Outstanding Character Award, among others. Hatfield also maintains two part-time jobs; one at Tree-Top as an office assistant and the second one at Gym Kids as a pre-school assistant and cheer team assistant coach. This fall Hatfield will begin taking classes at YVCC in pursuit of a nursing degree.

For more information regarding scholarship opportunities please contact the YVCC Foundation at 509.574.4645.

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YVCC Foundation 15th Annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony.

2011-2012 Award Recipients Felipa Acevedo-Nunez Megan Evans Carson Miller Isaac Aguirre Gabrielle Filicetti Hilary Moore Katelyn Alderman Rosa Flores Joseph Mulvihill Holly Allen Taylor Flores Carrie Murphy Elsa Amanuel Terra Flowers Emilee Oldham Vanessa Archer Kaylene Fountain Lizbeth Olivas Alma Ayala Tyler Frazier Brian Michner Alma Barajas Kaisa Gardner Moretta Miley Krysta Beach John Gastelum Viridiana Ortiz Dennis Beebe Ariah Gonzales Holly Parker Carrie Bimbi Shelby Granz Vijay Parulkar Lisa Bjorklund Kristi Hancock Elisabeth Pena Sean Bruso Dena Haney Kelli Pettyjohn Kyle Burlingame Ashley Hatfield Dario Pinon Laurie Caldwell Matthew Hauck Ignacio Ramos Risa Campos Janelle Helfer Riley Ramynke Elizabeth Castro Pierce Hite Susan Reed Amanda Chouinard Danae Holzer Mary Rhine Alicia Cikauskas Frances Hull Miriam Rivas Brooke Cikauskas Amber Ihrig Eliana Rodriguez Morgan Cikauskas Katherine Iriarte Kayla Rodriguez Jessica Clark Floricel Jimenez Vallerie Rodriguez Jacob Cleveland Adrianna Jones LaVonne Schauss Jennifer Combs Willi Kautz Megan Schill Ann-Marie Cordova Trista Kennedy Amanda Schmidt Amanda Cowin Brady Kent Katelyn Schneider Heidi Cruz Tori Koenig Ignacio Sifuentes Amelia Davis Azalea Koestler Elizabeth Strawder Jamie Davis Katlyn Lantz Debbie Torres Lynn Davis Tanner LaTour Jason Tovar Sheila Delpuardri Jeffrey Lau Kallie Tweten Armanda Diaz Jose Licano Maria Valencia Chelsea Dimas Yolanda Lopez Madeline Wilson Savannah Dippolito Mariela Macias Tanner Winckler Karen Dixon Alisha Maissen Kara Winegar Michael Dukes Savanna Martinez Brittany Woods Vladimir Emeliyanenko Michelle McFarland Kalene Yates Elizabeth Evans Mylisa McGill Tyler Zentz

Yakima Rotary Award Scholarships to YVCC Students Each year the Rotary Club of Yakima awards the achievements of some of the community’s best and brightest students by recognizing them with scholarships. Many of these recipients are YVCC students.

Academic Scholarship: The Academic Scholarship is a $2,000 scholarship awarded annually to 15 graduating seniors. YVCC running start students Cecily Wilson, Seth Martin, and Jessica Latimer were awarded this scholarship.

Jessica Latimer began attending YVCC through the Running Start Program as a junior at West Valley High School. Interested in science, Latimer decided to pursue a degree in nursing and has been taking prerequisite coursework at YVCC for the past two years. “I chose nursing because academically I am genuinely interested in medicine, the human body, and biology. In addition to that, I love to help other people. I believe nursing is a perfect combination of the two,” stated Latimer. Graduating from YVCC in June, she plans to continue her education at the University of Washington School of Nursing.

Vocational Scholarship: The Vocational Scholarship is a $1,500 scholarship awarded annually to 12 local students pursuing degrees in vocational fields such as nursing and agriculture. This year YVCC students Elena Cole, Sondra George, Renee LaCasse, and Brian Michener received this award.

During a trip to Peru, Sondra George decided that she wanted to help people and is pursuing a degree in nursing. Originally taking courses at Spokane Community College, George relocated to Yakima to be closer to her grandparents and to attend YVCC’s program in the spring of 2010. Thankful for the funding received from Yakima Rotary, she will be able to speed up her coursework by attending summer quarter. “This scholarship will enable me to attend summer quarter, which financial aid does not cover,” stated George. “It also was a wonderful experience to apply and interview for the scholarship. It taught me a lot,” she continued.

NSF scholarship recipients Chris Ensign (right) and Brady Kent. Not shown: Mark Urlacher.

Academic scholarship recipient Jessica Latimer. Not shown: Seth Martin and Cecily Wilson.

Vocational scholarship recipients Sondra George (center), Renee LaCasse (left) and Elena Cole (right).

Brian Michener shown below.

Mary Monroe Davis: Long time Yakima resident Mary Monroe Davis left an educational legacy to Yakima County when she passed away in 2008. Since then, Yakima Rotary Trust provides scholarships in her name to Yakima Valley students. Three YVCC students were awarded scholarships for the 2011-2012 academic year: Brian Michener, Taylor Hoffard, and Colby Daniels.

Enrolling in the fall of 2010, Brian Michener decided to pursue his interest in agriculture at the Mary Monroe Davis scholarship recipients Grandview Campus. “I chose agribusiness because Brian Michener (left) and Taylor Hoffard. Not I grew up farming and love agriculture,” stated shown: Colby Daniels.

Michener. While going to school, he also volunteered to help a local struggling fruit farm. Michener would not have been able to continue at YVCC without the generous support of the Yakima Rotary scholarships. He received $1,500 from the vocational scholarship and $3,000 from the Mary Monroe Davis Scholarship. He plans to complete his associate of applied science degree in agribusiness. His dream is to own his own agritourism farm/business.

NSF Scholarships Three of YVCC’s engineering students were awarded National Science Foundation (NSF) scholarships to pursue bachelor’s degrees in computer science, electrical, or mechanical engineering.

This NSF scholarship program, funded through Washington State University (WSU), targets students who have participated in the Yakima Valley/Tri-Cities Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement program.

Students Chris Ensign, Brady Kent, and Mark Urlacher were awarded scholarships for the 2011-2012 academic year.

Chris Ensign hopes one day to work as a mechanical engineer in the Yakima Valley.

Ensign has a love for math and science and decided to enroll at YVCC. A father of one child, with another one on the way, money is often tight in the Ensign household. “Receiving the NSF scholarship in the amount of $7,500 has been very beneficial to me and my family,” stated Ensign. Thankful for the support he has received from this scholarship and YVCC’s Engineering Program, Chris hopes that others find the value in attending YVCC for its great teachers and small class size. He will graduate from YVCC in 2012 and plans to transfer to WSU Tri-Cities.

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Baseball

Athletics Hollie Lamb

Earns NWAACC Honors Yakima Valley Community College’s softball player Hollie Lamb was selected as the All-American Scholar Athlete by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association.

In addition, she received two awards from the Northwest Athletic Association of Community College (NWAACC), both the Academic Leadership Award and the All-Academic Award. These awards are given to student-athletes who excel in the classroom and are involved in the campus community.

Growing up in the Yakima Valley, Hollie has been playing softball since the age of 4. Drawn to YVCC as a way to stay close to home, she was delighted to be able to continue to play the sport she loved. “I love being a part of YVCC’s Fastpitch Team,” stated Lamb. “It has been great being able to call myself an athlete still and to meet new people from around the state. It has been quite an adventure,” she concluded.

“There is no one nicer than Hollie,” stated Head Coach of the Women’s Softball Team Chuck Bodeen.

“She always puts the team and others ahead of herself.”

A truly caring person, Hollie started working with individuals with special needs while attending West Valley High School. Instantly drawn to this experience, she decided to make it her life’s passion. Committed to helping others, Lamb volunteers with Washington’s Special Olympics each summer and baby-sits two children with Down’s syndrome. She also works with YVCC’s Disability Support Services as a work-study student, helping students with special needs excel in the classroom.

In her sophomore year at YVCC, Lamb maintained a 3.5 GPA. She will graduate in winter of 2012. Hollie will then transfer to a four-year university and pursue a degree in teaching with emphasis in special Hollie Lamb education.

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YVCC‘s Men’s Baseball had an exceptional season under the leadership of Head Coach Ken Wilson. The Yaks were the Eastern Region Champions with 32 wins and 10 loses, and advanced to the NWAACC Championship Tournament for the first time since 2000. “I was very happy for our players and coaches,” stated Wilson. “It has been 11 years since YVCC has played in the NWAACC Tournament.”

Individual accomplishments included Eastern Division All-Star 1st Team Tyler Berman (infield) and Trevor Dallman (outfield).

Eastern Division All-Stars 2nd Team honors were awarded to Roemon Fields (outfield) and Derek Welton (pitcher). In addition, Will Chavarria (catcher) and Roemon Fields (outfield) were awarded the Eastern Region Golden Glove Award by the NWAACC.

Softball Ending their most successful season under the leadership of Head Coach Chuck Bodeen, the YVCC Women’s Softball Team had success both on the field and off. The season was plagued with injuries, but the Yaks didn’t let this break their spirit and they continued to play hard and compete well. “I’m very proud of our season and how the team played,” said Bodeen. “They always compete until the last out in every game.”

Individual players received awards for their performance this season including 2nd Team All-League honors to Hannah Kranz (pitcher) and Tori Slobig (designated player/utility). Sophomore Hollie Lamb (short stop) was honored by the NWAACC with the All-Academic Award and the Academic Leadership Award. She was also recognized as an All-American Scholar Athlete by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association.

In addition to regular season play, the Yaks hosted the 4th consecutive NWAACC Crossover Tournament this spring at Selah’s Carlon Park. “It always proves to be a very successful tournament,” stated Bodeen. “Many people from the community step up and work hard to make the tournament run smoothly,” he concluded.

This season the Yaks welcomed new assistant coach Dawn Hester. The Yaks pitching coach for this season, Hester was a tremendous asset to the softball program.

Athletes of the Year YVCC coaches representing all the Yaks athletic programs vote each year on the male and female athlete of the year awards. Named after, Larry Densley, the Male Athlete of the Year was awarded to basketball player Willie Blogett. The Female Athlete of the Year, given in honor of Mary Sherar, was awarded to volleyball and basketball stand-out Samantha Zapien.

Willie Blodgett

Willie Blodgett, recipient of the Larry Densley Male Athlete of the Year award, has been a two-year standout player for YVCC Men’s Basketball. During his time at YVCC, the men’s team finished 6th (2010) and 5th (2011) in the NWAACC Tournament. A graduate of Wapato High School, Blodgett has had an impressive couple of seasons with the Yaks. In 2010 he was voted to the NWAACC All-Tournament Team and was MVP of the pre-season Lower Columbia College Red Devil Classic Tournament. In 2011 Blodgett was named 2nd Team All-Eastern Region, and voted to play in the NWAACC Sophomore All-Star Game. He was also selected as this year’s Most Valuable Teammate by his peers. “Coaching Willie has been very rewarding,” stated Head Coach Ray Funk. “Beyond his skills and abilities, Willie had a very high basketball IQ and flat-out worked as hard as anyone we’ve had in our program. He will definitely be missed and our coaching staff was thankful for the opportunity to work with him on a daily basis,” continued Funk. Blodgett’s future plans include accepting a basketball scholarship to Saint Martin’s University following completion of his associate degree at the end of fall quarter 2012.

Willie Blodgett

Samantha Zapien

Samantha Zapien is this year’s recipient of the Mary Sherar Female Athlete of the Year award. Competing for the Yaks in both volleyball and basketball, Samantha showed tremendous effort during both seasons which led to appearances in NWAACC Tournament play. First, she helped lead the volleyball team to a late season charge that saw them qualify for the NWAACC Tournament and finish the season with a trophy for 3rd place.

She received individual honors, claiming number one in blocking in the Eastern Region and the NWAACC. She then joined the women’s basketball team. Her contributions made an immediate impact and helped the Yaks complete a successful late season run to win 12 of their last 13 games with 9 straight on the road and the NWAACC Championship.

“Simply put, adding Samantha to our team provided us with the toughness necessary to compete for the NWAACC Championship,” stated Head Coach Cody Butler. “Samantha’s contributions were felt immediately as crucial rebounds and loose balls started landing in the hands of the Yaks instead of the opponent. Her influence continued off the floor as well. Her leadership and perseverance through one of the most difficult situations a team could face was nothing short of remarkable,” continued Butler. For over a decade Zapien either competed with or against best friend and fellow Yak Hannah Cordova, who tragically died in a car accident in the middle of the season. Zapien understood Hannah’s desire to compete for a championship. “Through her leadership and perseverance Zapien was able to communicate and channel that emotion, and together with the Cordova family, truly led the team to a championship,” he concluded.

Samantha Zapien

Yaks Moving On The Yaks are proud to announce the success of student-athletes who will move on and compete at four-year universities across the nation.

Willie Blodgett (basketball) - Saint Martin’s University

Bianca Flores (soccer) - The Evergreen State College

Teagan Franco (wrestling) - Oklahoma City University

Stephanie Geltmacher (wrestling) - Oklahoma City University

Hannah Hester (softball) - Central Washington University

Gustavo Lopez (wrestling) - Menlo College

Amber Rodriguez (wrestling) - Oklahoma City University

Veronica Sanchez (volleyball) - California State University, East Bay 14

Larson Gallery

Department of Visual Arts Exhibit This spring the Larson Gallery hosted the annual Department of Visual Arts (DoVA) student and faculty exhibit. For the past forty years this popular exhibition has afforded opportunities for students to display their work in a professional venue.

Artwork for the show was selected by instructors and represents a small portion of the work created by YVCC art students during the past year. Award winners were chosen by faculty and by Larson Gallery Director Cheryl H. Hahn. Drawings, paintings, graphic designs, photographs, collages, and ceramics were featured.

YVCC faculty members and DoVA supporters Bob Fisher, Rachel Dorn, Herb Blisard, Lena Davidson, David Lynx, Richard Nicksic, Timm Wauzynski, and Bruce Lindell also participated by showcasing their own artwork and sponsoring awards.

Country Moose by Kristie Presler; Best of Show

DoVA Best of Show Kristie Presler; Country Moose Larson Gallery Guild Award of Excellence Joan Barnett; Homage to ‘Flight’

Dr. Linda Kaminski President’s Award Jane Fassel; Sausalito Dick Lord Memorial for Excellence in Design Travis Yallup; Attack of the Ancestors Tammy Caoile; Pop-Up Book Associated Students of YVCC Purchase Awards Madeline Soto; Fisherman at Dawn Kevin Anderson; Antigua Calvin Farnham; Socks with Holes Lyle Galloway; Reaching for a Quest

Attack of the Ancestors by Travis Yallup; Dick Lord Memorial for Excellence in Design

YVC-Federation of Teachers Awards Teresa Loye; Cummings: Koiboy Anna Whitlock; Leaves

DoVA Awards of Merit Clay: John Peterson; Wolves Drawing: Matthew Russell; Baby Harley Painting: Anthony Padavich; The Great White Owl Photo: Sandra Bravo-Delgado; Crystal Clear Other Media: Edgar Perez; Smoke Collage: Mary Nelson; Lighthouse Larson Gallery Honorable Mentions Nathan Champion; Ticks and Leeches Myranda Dahl; Winter Sets In Danielle Fish; Vision of the Maasai DoVA Honorable Mentions L. Autumn Pendelton; Zombiesss! Handsome Larry J. Richardson; ’03 Victory Vegas Eduardo Vasquez; Building/Tower Robin Perches; In the Trees Leanna Hull; Making a Wish Megan Schlenker; Spanish Village

For more information visit: www.larsongallery.org.

Background: Leaves by Anna Whitlock; YVC-Federation of Teachers Award 15

Great White Owl by Anthony Padavich; Award of Merit for Painting

Student Accomplishments Engineering Students Compete with HPPV’s Two teams from YVCC’s Engineering Program recently participated in the 15th Annual Intercollegiate Human Powered Paper Vehicle Engineering Competition hosted by Eastern Washington University. The competition challenges students from Washington, Idaho, and Oregon to use their engineering skills and creativity to construct human powered vehicles that are comprised of at least 90% paper products. The 1st team constructed a three-wheeled trike that weighed 68# and had 10% non-paper products and the second team created a two-wheeled bike that weighed 54# and contained 5% non-paper materials.

Student teams worked hard to prepare for the event. “Extensive time, preparation, testing, and redesign helped us to be competitive from the beginning. Through trial and error we were able to modify our design,” stated Brady Kent, YVCC engineering student. “Being the first team from YVCC to compete at this event we wanted to have a good showing and provide something to build on. I’m glad this event is annual. I can’t wait to return next year and improve our results,” he concluded.

Projects are tested in the areas of vehicle performance and presentation skills. The competition is a great way to promote team building, communication, and creative problem solving. Performing very well, the YVCC bike team earned 2nd place for presentation while the trike team earned 3rd place for the performance portion of the competition.

Ethan Brune Earns 1st Place at SkillsUSA Competition

YVCC engineering students model their human powered paper vehicles.

Ethan Brune, automotive technology student, works on a vehicle in YVCC’s automotive lab.

YVCC Automotive Technology Student Ethan Brune received the gold medal at the Washington State SkillsUSA competition held at Columbia Basin College this spring. The competition featured thirty students from six colleges.

Growing up in a family with love for cars, Brune is following in his father’s footsteps. He graduated from Selah High School in 2009 and began working for Selah’s R&Q Parts & Machine. He then decided to further his skills and enrolled in the Automotive Technology Program. “YVCC has a great Automotive Technology Program. The instructors are very knowledgeable and the equipment is up-to-date,” stated Brune. The Automotive Technology Program provides Brune and his peers the opportunity to compete at the SkillsUSA competition each year. His first place finish at the state competition earned him a trip to nationals in Kansas City this June. “I am excited about competing at nationals, it will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” concluded Brune. He will graduate in June 2012 with an associate of applied science degree in automotive service technology. He hopes one day to work on high-end race motors.

Surgical Technology Student Amber Reynolds Wins Annual Scrub Bowl Competition

YVCC surgical technology students with instructor Libby McRae.

YVCC’s Surgical Technology Club recently participated in the Washington Assembly of the Association of Surgical Technologists’ 5th Annual Student Scrub Bowl Competition held in Vancouver, WA. Student Amber Reynolds took first place, beating out students from Renton Technical College, who have won the past four consecutive years.

Three students, from each participating college, take part in this knowledgebased competition with questions geared toward studying for the national board certification examination in surgical technology. YVCC was represented by students Cara Beagle, Amber Reynolds, and Starla Scholl. In addition, many fellow students attended to cheer for their school.

YVCC has taken second place and third place in the competition in prior years.

“All students did very well, lasting far into the competition,” stated Libby McRae, surgical technology instructor. “The students have worked hard to study for this competition, among all of their other studies,” she continued.

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English Instructor Carolyn Calhoon-Dillahunt recently spoke at the 2011 Conference on College Composition and Community. Her presentation was titled, “Results from the CCCC Survey on Dual-Credit/Concurrent Enrollment.” In addition, she participated in the National Council of Teachers of English Advocacy Day, where she spoke with local legislators about literacy education policy and the importance of the LEARN Act.

People

Congratulations to Johnny Campos on his award as Winter 2010 Classified Employee of the Quarter. Campos has worked at YVCC for eight years as a custodian in the Facilities Operations Department. In recognition of his constant willingness to help others on his team, the custodians also awarded Campos with the Golden Plunger Award.

Spanish Instructor Ricardo Chama hosted Heritage Language Learners: una realidad y un reto, a professional development workshop sponsored by the University of Washington’s Center for Spanish Studies, Central Washington University, The Instituto Cervantes in Seattle, the Consulate of Mexico, the Washington Association for Language Teaching, and the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese.

Johnny Campos

YVCC’s Chamber Singers made a trip to the Seattle area on May 26 to attend a rehearsal of the University of Washington Chamber Singers conducted by Dr. Geoffrey Boers. At the conclusion of the rehearsal, the YVCC Chamber Singers sang for the UW group. That same evening, they performed a joint concert with the Anacortes Lutheran Church Choir. The choir is conducted by YVCC alumna, Laurie Julius Carver.

YVCC’s Concert Choir joined the Yakima Symphony Orchestra and Chorus this May in preforming Giuseppi Verdi’s famous Requiem. For most members of the YVCC Concert Choir this was the first experience singing with the Yakima Symphony Orchestra.

Dr. Scott Peterson, music instructor and chorusmaster of the Yakima Symphony Chorus rehearsed all the choral musicians for the concert.

English Instructor Joy Clark attended the National Conference for Media Reform in Boston this past April. Clark will use this information to gain classroom strategies for teaching critical thinking about media issues.

Linda Clark

Congratulations to Linda Clark on her award as Fall 2010 Classified Employee of the Quarter.

Clark is a procurement and supply support specialist I in the Purchasing Department. She has worked for YVCC for nine years.

Teresa Holland, Clarissa Wolfe, Lisa Rice, Erin Anderton and Belinda Boyd, of YVCC’s Administrative Services Division recently attended a federal student aid workshop offered by the US Department of Education. The workshop provided valuable training related to student aid.

Research Analyst Shelia Delquadri recently received the Exempt/Administrative Scholarship from the YVCC Foundation. Delquadri, a graduate student at Penn State University, will use this funding in pursuit of a master’s degree in community and economic development.

Congratulations to Faculty Director of the Office of Institutional Effectiveness Wilma Dulin. She was selected by her peers to serve as the new President-Elect for the Washington Association of Research and Planning. As president-elect she will serve on the executive committee in a leadership role for the next three years.

During YVCC’s annual Assessment Day, the Office of Institutional Effectiveness recognized the efforts of many faculty and staff. Einie Awards were presented in three general areas: accreditation related efforts, research efforts, and general services efforts. Awards were presented to: Trent Ball (agriculture/vineyard & winery technology), Leslie Eglin (adult basic skills), Doug Lewis (math), Kathy Laws (adult basic skills), Shannon Fernandes (English), Kathryn Bauer (counseling), Cheri Podruzny (dental hygiene), Heidi Shaw (psychology), Marc Coomer (student services), Mike Jenck (math), Judy Morehead (business office), Denise Anderson (enrollment services), Jeremy Bond (technology services), Mike Petri (technology services), Dr. Carli Schiffner (arts & sciences), and the departments of medical assisting, surgical technology, and radiologic science.

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Yakima Valley Community College received recognition for its agency partnership with Foster Teens to College when the program was honored by Mutual of America as a Merit Finalist for the 2010 Community Partnership Award. This program partners with YVCC to provide former foster youth with mentoring and support as they go on to postsecondary education and become independent adults.

YVCC Counselor, Sue Perrault received an individual Community Partnership Award. The Counseling & Advising Center mentors the students and coordinates the program with Financial Aid Data Manager, Linda Lea, who provides coordination of the student financial aid packages. Other support offices include: Registration, Admissions, and the Student Residence Center.

Teresa Holland, vice president for administrative services recently served as part of the evaluation team for the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accreditation visit to Chief Dull Knife College in Lame Deer, Montana.

Financial Aid Data Manager Linda Lea was recently recognized by the College Success Foundation. Based on a recommendation from a student, Linda was acknowledged for her continued support for YVCC students and achiever scholars.

Workforce Education Division Dean Paulette Lopez was selected by the Washington Executive Leadership Academy’s Board of Directors to be part of the 14-member 2011-2012 cohort.

Communication Instructor Jim McCormick was elected to the Board of Directors of The Dispute Resolution Center (DRC) of Yakima and Kittitas Counties. McCormick will serve a two-year term and will help guide the DRC in its efforts to provide residents alternatives to going to court.

Dan Peters, English instructor, released his first book as co-editor of Blue Begonia Press. Every Dress a Decision, by Elizabeth Austen, was launched at Oak Hallow Gallery in Yakima and Open Books in Seattle. In addition, an excerpt from Peter’s poem “Honey Dipper,” has been installed at the Capital Theatre’s new 4th Street Theatre.

English Instructor Jill Widner was awarded a summer 2011 residency at the Helen Riaboff Whiteley Center. In addition, her story “Pale Sheep” was published by American Short Fiction.

Director of Accounting Services Clarissa Wolfe recently attended the Washington Municipal Trustees Association Annual Conference in Chelan. The conference provided valuable information on fraud, internal controls, investment strategy, and the national economic outlook.

This spring ASYVCC recognized several individuals and programs for contributions to YVCC. Awards include: MEChA, Club of the Year; Athletics, Program of the Year; Naeem Kara, Student of the Year; Marlene Cousens, Teacher of the Year; Carol Schneider, Advisor of the Year; Bonnie Albano, Distinguished Service-Classified; and Tammy Scott, Distinguished Service-Exempt. In addition the Grandview Student Council also presented individuals with the following awards: Zulma Ochoa, Staff of the Year; Keith Reyes, Faculty of the Year; and Kristine Luna and Catalina Alvarez, Student of the Year.

Retirements This June YVCC said goodbye to many long-time employees who have retired after giving many years of service to the college.

One of them is YVCC’s Curriculum and Instructional Affairs Manager María Juárez de Sánchez.

María’s parents migrated to the Yakima Valley in the early 1960s to help with the area’s agriculture demand.

She attended schools María Juárez de Sánchez in Toppenish and Prosser, but the family eventually settled in Wapato. Learning at a young age the value of education, her parents pushed María and her siblings to work hard in school. “My parents instilled the value of education in all of us from a very young age,” stated Juárez de Sánchez. “All seven of their children have a college education, and six of us work in an educational career,” she continued.

Graduating from high school, she attended Western Washington University for one year, before returning to valley to help earn money for the family. In 1973 she married Raúl Sánchez and the couple moved to the Tri-Cities so he could attend Washington State University (WSU). It was there she began her career in education, working at WSU while he finished his degree. Later María worked for the Pasco School District and Columbia Basin College.

In 1980 the couple moved to Yakima and María started at YVCC. For the past 31 years she has worked for the office of instruction and student services. Although her title and supervisors have changed over the years, she has essentially retained the same core duties throughout her time, including: curriculum, scheduling, and faculty contracts. An alumna of YVCC, María finished her degree in 1993. “The most rewarding aspect of working here has been the people and the friendships that I’ve made,” she concluded.

Her husband also retired this year. The couple plans to spend time with their grandchildren and travel.

Retirements Phyllis Strain Human Resources, 35 Years of Service Leslie Eglin Basic Skills Faculty, 29 Years of Service Patrick Bonneville Facilities Operations, 25 Years of Service Bernice Clem Athletics, 22 Years of Service Carol Wilson Workforce Education Division, 16 Years of Service Dot Benson Workforce Education Division, 3 Years of Service 18

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