July 7-10: Volleyball CampJoin YVCC for individual skills volleyball camps for grades 4-8 and 9-12. Fundamentals include passing, hitting, defense, serving, and receiving. Cost is $90. For more information: 574.4729 or www.goyaks.com July 7-10: World Cup Soccer CampJoin YVCC for a summer soccer camp for students in grades K-12. The camp will be held from 8:00am-12:00pm. Participants will receive age appropriate instruction on individual skill development in a positive and fun learning environment. Skills presented include control, dribble, passing, finishing on goal, defending, individual expression, and team unity. Cost is $60. For more information: pmonahan@yvcc.edu

July 12 & 13: Unlocking Drawing: Yes You Can The Larson Gallery presents Unlocking Drawing: Yes You Can with Natalie Dotzauer. This workshop focuses on the meditative nature of observational drawing. Participants will explore the techniques of gesture sketching, observational drawing, and compositional strategies to better understand everyday objects. The cost is $160. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org

July 19: Flagger Certification Training YVCC’s Career Connection Center hosts Flagger Certification Training on the Yakima Campus. This one-day training will be held from 8:00am-4:00pm. Participants will receive a study-guide and have the opportunity to take the Washington State certification exam. Cost is $45. To enroll or for more information: 574.4911.

July 19 & 20: A Modern Approach to Encaustic The Larson Gallery presents A Modern Approach to Encaustic with Larry Calkins. Workshop participants will explore the versatile and unlimited field of encaustic painting using traditional and non-traditional approaches including hot wax, pigment and a variety of materials such as natural ceramic clay and mud washes as textural backgrounds. Cost is $160 plus a $25 materials fee. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org

July 26 & 27: Altered PagesThe Larson Gallery presents Altered Pages by Joan CawleyCrane. Participants will learn many of the elements of bookbinding, from “simple” flexible paper covers to protective board covers and from sewn single signatures, to more elaborate multi-signature sewn books. Participants will also learn techniques that will allow them to make books function. Cost is $160 plus a $25 materials fee. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org

July 28-31: Volleyball CampJoin YVCC for individual skills volleyball camps for grades 4-8 and 9-12. Fundamentals include passing, hitting, defense, serving, and receiving. Cost is $90. For more information: 574.4729 or www.goyaks.com

September 4: Home Volleyball Game Come cheer for the women’s volleyball team as they battle Linn-Benton Community College. The match begins at 3:00pm. For the complete volleyball visit www.goyaks.com

September 11-October 18: Many Waters: Artists from Walla Walla ExhibitionThe Larson Gallery presents Many Waters: Artists from Walla Walla Exhibition beginning September 11, 2014. “Walla Walla” translates as many waters in Sahaptin, and illustrates the varied streams of ideas expressed by the artists of Walla Walla. Exhibiting artists include Juventino Aranda, Leslie Cain, Wayne Chabre, Daniel Forbes, Sarrah Lynne Havens, Anne Hysell, Ben Lerchin, Penny Michel, Frank Munns, Candace Rose, Diana Schmidt, Rachel Smith, Cass Spangrude, Ralph Trethewey, and Sara Wyman. For more information: 574.4875 or www.larsongallery.org

September 4: Home Soccer Game The women’s soccer team opens their first home game against Lane Community College at 2:00pm. For a complete list of upcoming athletic events visit www.goyaks.com

September 22: Fall Quarter BeginsYVCC classes for fall quarter 2014 begin on September 22. New students must apply for admission prior to August 19. For more information: www.yvcc.edu

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Produced by YVCC Community RelationsNiki Hopkins & Stefanie MenardPublished June 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 98907-2520communityrelations@yvcc.edu / 509.574.4646

Contents3 President’s Letter4 85th Commencement Ceremony 5 YVCC Awards7 YVCC Graduates8 Campus News9 Student Activities11 Experiential Education12 Scholarships13 Athletics14 Sharing Good News

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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.

Yakima Valley Community College celebrated our 85th Commencement Ceremony on June 12, 2014. Grandview Student Council officer Anjhellica Ampil earned her associate in arts degree.

On the Cover

DedicationThis edition of the Campus Update is dedicated to Suzy West. She has contributed her time and expertise to over 30 editions of this publication. The office of Community Relations would like to recognize and extend our gratitude for her continued support.

Sincerely,

Linda Kaminski, Ed.D.President

Spring quarter at Yakima Valley Community College is an exciting time. It is filled with much excitement as days get longer and the warmer weather encourages students to spend more time outside. They gather on the lawn to study, relax, or grab a bite to eat between classes. The calendar is full of activities including completion ceremonies in the Basic Skills, pinning ceremonies in our health programs, and various end-of-the-year concerts and celebrations. The college grounds are bustling with activities and everyone is preparing for the main event - commencement. This year, YVCC celebrated our 85th commencement ceremony by awarding over 1,015 degrees and certificates. About half of those were awarded to students who plan to transfer to a university to complete a bachelor’s degree. The rest were graduates who have prepared for employment in 66 different professional career programs. We are proud that our graduates have reached their educational goals and are ready to transition to the next level of education or to begin their careers. Most of these students will stay here in our communities and be highly trained professionals and community leaders who contribute to the quality of life in our valley. In this issue of Campus Update, you will read about our graduates, the success of our faculty and staff, and the many wonderful opportunities our students have to broaden their education not just in the classroom but through learning opportunities provided by our exceptional faculty. Finally, I had the chance to attend our first annual Challenge Coin Ceremony to honor our student veterans. In this issue you will read how YVCC’s Veterans Office recognized students who have earned 45 credits or more toward the completion of their degree. We are very proud of our students. As we celebrate their success we also want to thank you for your continued support of Yakima Valley Community College.

From the President

PresidentDr. Linda Kaminski

Board of TrusteesPaul McDonald

Rosalinda MendozaRobert Ozuna

Lisa ParkerPatricia Whitefoot, Chair

VP of Administrative ServicesTeresa Holland

VP of Instruction and Student ServicesTomás Ybarra

DeansArts & Sciences

Kerrie Abb

Workforce EducationPaulette Lopez

Student ServicesLeslie Blackaby

Grandview Campus & Basic SkillsDr. Bryce Humpherys

On June 12 YVCC celebrated its 85th Commencement Ceremony with keynote speaker Lieutenant Governor Brad Owen. Owen was elected as Washington State’s 15th lieutenant governor in 1996 and re-elected in 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012. He serves the state as president of the Senate. Owen has dedicated his term of service to providing leadership in the field of public health and safety, with an emphasis on substance abuse prevention. The graduating class was also addressed by student speaker Yesenia Navarrete Hunter. Hunter was born in Guadalajara, Mexico and came to the United States with her family when she was just five years old. The family settled in Wapato, Washington and began working in the local agriculture industry. After graduating from high school Yesenia began her lifelong pursuit of helping families in need. She now works at the Department of Social and Health Services. She graduated with an associate in arts transfer degree and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work. In addition to working full-time and going to school, Hunter has published two children’s books, and is very involved with music. She participated in YVCC’s Latin Music Celebration this past May and teaches music with her family out of their home. YVCC is proud of the class of 2014. Their accomplishments pave the path for a better Yakima Valley. “Their training has prepared them to enter the workforce in their respective fields or transfer to another institution of higher learning to complete a bachelor’s degree,” stated President Dr. Linda Kaminski. Congratulations Class of 2014!

85th Commencement

129 Attended the Grandview Campus

67 Running Start students earning a high school diploma and a college degree

18 to 67 Age range of graduates

48% Students of color

Lieutenant Governor Brad Owen

Student Commencement Speaker Yesenia Navarrete Hunter

1,015 Degrees and certificates awarded

Class of 2014

71% Female

Commencement

Gary Christensen is the President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board of Powell-Christensen, Inc. He began work at an early age and supported himself while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business management. In 1980 he put all his money on a down payment for a small fuel distributing business in Grandview, Washington. With a lot of hard work and dedication, Christensen has developed the company into one of the largest fuel, lubricant, and propane distributing companies in the Northwest. The company provides jobs for over 400 people and reports annual sales in excess of $500 million; making it the 14th largest privately held corporation in the state of Washington. Christensen is also the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board for Mid Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Inc., The Chief Executive Officer of Christensen West LLC, and the Chief Executive Officer of Seaport Petroleum. He is being honored for his support in the expansion of YVCC’s Grandview Campus. He has also promoted YVCC as a quality provider of education and training and helped create a partnership with the University of Washington to provide business training opportunities.

Distinguished Alumnus AwardWalt Bratton

YVCC Awards

Distinguished Service AwardGary Christensen

Walt Bratton grew up in Grandview, Washington. The son of a parks and recreation director, his love for the profession started at a young age working beside his father and assisting with daily operations. In the late 1980’s he attended Yakima Valley Community College on a basketball scholarship. After completing his associate of arts degree, he transferred to Washington State University to work toward a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management. Bratton graduated with honors and was offered a full academic scholarship to attend Arizona State University to pursue a master’s degree. He later went on to earn a master’s degree in public administration from Wichita State University. He has devoted his life in support of parks and recreation in states across the United States including Arizona, Kansas, California, Wyoming, and Florida. Bratton is currently working as the Director of Parks, Recreation, and Economic Activities/Development for the city of Ruidoso, New Mexico.

Emeritus FacultyDr. Scott Peterson

An Arts and Sciences Instructor, Dr. Scott Peterson taught music courses for over 30 years before retiring in 2012. Peterson grew up in Stanton, Iowa, and received a bachelor of arts degree in music education from Midland Lutheran College (now Midland University) in Fremont, Nebraska. He then attended Central Washington State College (now CWU), where he was awarded the first masters of arts degree in conducting. He went on to earn a doctor of musical arts degree in choral conducting from the University of Washington. “Dr. P.”, as he is affectionately called by his students, arrived on the campus of YVCC after graduating from CWU in September of 1976. Over the next three and a half decades as Director of Choral Activities, he conducted the YVCC Concert Choir and Chamber Singers and taught music appreciation, conducting and theory. During his tenure, the choral program at YVCC grew and developed various traditions which attracted students, faculty and the community, including the annual Madrigal Feaste.

Sherrie and Daryl Parker AwardJulie SwedinJulie Swedin is an instructor in the Arts and Sciences Division teaching English. Following high school she attended the University of Montana where she earned a bachelor of arts degree in journalism. Her family then decided to move from Montana to the Yakima Valley, and when Swedin graduated she followed her family to the Pacific Northwest. Starting her career as a health and education reporter, Swedin was hired to work at local CBS television affiliate (KIMA). While reporting on education-based stories she realized how much she loved the classroom. She enrolled at Central Washington University where she earned a masters of arts degree in English. She taught English at Eisenhower High School for 10 years before starting at YVCC’s Grandview Campus in 2008. While working in Grandview she had the opportunity to teach several English classes including literature, developmental writing, and communication. In addition, she worked in the Writing Center. In 2013 she transferred to YVCC’s Yakima Campus. Swedin recently began the doctorate program in education with a focus on teacher leadership at Washington State University.

Robert M. Leadon Excellence in Teaching AwardJerred Seveyka

Jerred Seveyka is an instructor in the Arts and Sciences Division and teaches a variety of courses in biology, as well as anatomy and physiology. Seveyka grew up in Anaconda, Montana. At a very young age, he developed an interest in science, and pursued advanced courses during his teenage years. Following high school he attended the University of Montana (UM), where he earned a bachelor’s in biology. Seveyka continued at UM pursing a master’s degree. While working on his master’s Seveyka participated in student teaching as part of his graduate work and found his passion. “I became interested in teaching because of the teachers I had in high school and my work during grad school,” stated Seveyka. “Teaching was the most rewarding aspect of my graduate work, and I soon realized it was where I would be able to make the biggest impact,” he continued. During this time, Jerred also had the opportunity to study at the University of Hawaii for one semester, where he developed an interest in marine biology. This interest would follow him throughout his career, regularly leading him around the world as a marine conservation volunteer. He began teaching at YVCC in 2001.

Darlene Koch Classified Employee of the Year AwardDonna FultonA long-time employee of the college, Donna Fulton works as a Program Assistant with the Dental Hygiene and Chemical Dependency programs. In 1984 she began working part-time at YVCC in the Registration and Admissions Office and was hired full-time in 1987. During her years in student services she provided continuous support to students who were pursuing higher education. Looking for a new challenge, Donna transferred to the Dental Hygiene Program in 1996 and has worked in this capacity ever since. In her 30 years at the college Donna has performed a variety of job responsibilities and has always done them with the students in mind. Her primary tasks include class scheduling, patient check-in for YVCC’s Dental Hygiene Clinic, support to both instructors and students, inventory, and ordering supplies. “Donna supports YVCC’s core themes of community, access, and success,” stated YVCC Dental Hygiene Instructor Deborah Gould. Fulton is very deserving of this award for her high standards of integrity, honesty, and quality in her work and support of student success.

YVCC Graduates

José Andrade

José Andrade is a first-generation college student. He began attending YVCC through the Running Start Program in 2012. With an interest in performing arts, Jose enrolled in drama courses and auditioned for productions. “I’ve been interested in acting since I was a kid. When I enrolled at YVCC I decided to go for it,” stated Andrade. He was cast in YVCC’s productions of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Anything Goes. In addition, he was able to attend the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, where he participated in a production of Notre Dame and received the Irene Ryan Drama Acknowledgment. Jose was one of five students selected to participate as a student-panelist at the Washington State Student Services Commission Conference this year. “Participating at the WSSSC Conference helped me to realize how far I’ve come while at YVCC. In high school I had no plans to go to college and now in a few short months I will be moving to New York to pursue my dreams,” concluded Andrade. He also served as the public relations director for the Associated Students of YVCC and believes that working with the student government helped him develop his professional skills. This fall he will transfer to New York University on a $10,000 scholarship to pursue acting.

Zak Switzer

Zak Switzer grew up in Yakima and attended West Valley schools. He first enrolled in YVCC’s Running Start program but the demands of high school, sports, and college courses was challenging. Switzer ended up dropping his Running Start classes and completed his senior year at the high school. “I didn’t think college was for me,” stated Switzer. “So I started working for a construction company installing heating and air conditioning systems. I got married and started a family,” he continued. Switzer’s work was very labor intensive and so he revisited the idea of going back to school. His wife had graduated from YVCC’s Surgical Technology Program and encouraged him to go back to school. Since he had a number of credits toward his associate degree already, he decided to take a chance. Zak has excelled in his coursework and has retaken classes that he previously struggled in, now earning all A’s. “YVCC is a fun place to be. You meet new people, you build a sense of community,” stated Switzer. “I’ve been in the real world and I thought coming back to school would be really hard. But I brought a lot of intensity to my studies, I’ve worked hard, and I’ve found good support from other students who want to do well too,” he continued. Switzer will graduate this summer with his associate of arts degree. His plans to transfer to Central Washington University and pursue a degree in electrical engineering.

Gina Vader

Growing up in the Yakima Valley Gina Vader moved to California before graduating from high school. She married and started a family. The couple’s relationship ended and Gina moved back home where she welcomed her third child. She worked for several years at Maid O’Clover Convenience Stores holding a variety of positions including some in management. In 2001 she enrolled at YVCC to earn her GED and pursue a degree in criminal justice. However, the demands of being a single mother and supporting her young family made Gina decide to returned to Maid O’Clover. She worked in their corporate office and stayed with the company until its closure in June 2004. Gina transitioned to the food industry and ultimately was hired by the YVCC food service provider, CDX’s Dining Service, in 2010. She works in the HUB Espresso Bar on the Yakima Campus. While working at YVCC Gina was continually encouraged to complete her degree by Criminal Justice Instructor Janet Foster Goodwill. In the winter of 2012, Vader accepted the challenge. “Janet would inspire me daily to finish my degree. She has been such a wonderful advisor to me and other students in the criminal justice program,” stated Vader. “I am in a super positive place in my life right now. I’m looking forward to what comes next,” she concluded. This summer she will graduate with an associate of applied science degree in criminal justice.

Campus News

Veterans Challenge Coin CeremonyThis spring the Veterans Office hosted YVCC’s first Challenge Coin Ceremony. Held on the Yakima Campus, the event recognized 66 student veterans who had completed 45 college level credits toward their degree. The goal was to create an opportunity for the college to show its support to veterans who are pursuing their education. Since World War I veterans have received commemorative coins. Military coins were issued to battalions as symbols of camaraderie and unity. Over time, the Challenge coin became a way for a Veteran or service member to show proof of membership in a campaign, battle, group, or event. It is a traditional medallion that veterans carry to signify their performance of duty. “We are starting a new tradition here at YVCC and our veterans this year should be honored to be the first group to receive this recognition,” stated Veterans Coordinator Ignacio Romero. “Veterans are very special individuals and we owe them so much. Having this celebration to honor them is just a small way to thank them for their service to our country,” he concluded.

YVCC Offers Pathways for Pre-Med StudentsIn recent years Yakima Valley Community College has partnered with the Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU) to make it easier for students in the Yakima Valley to earn a doctor of osteopathic medicine degree. YVCC created prerequisite courses that can be taken at the community college and fulfill course requirements for admission to medical schools across the country, including PNWU. This pathway is specifically beneficial to students who have a baccalaureate degree unrelated to a medical field, and are now interested in pursuing a medical degree. Alana Lautensleger is an example of students who have found these courses beneficial. She came to YVCC with a bachelor’s degree in forest ecology and environmental studies. After high school, Lautensleger spent a semester in Ecuador learning Spanish, taking courses, and volunteering at El Hogar Miguel Leon, a local hospital for the terminally ill. When she returned home she began studies in environmental science and resource management at the University of Washington (UW). “I spent four years studying ecosystems and doing field research all over the globe. I traveled to sites as far-flung as the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska, Yosemite National Park, and the Antarctic Peninsula,” stated Lautensleger. “After graduation, I spent a season working at UW as a field technician in the Yosemite Forest Dynamics Plot. When I returned to the valley I worked as a lab technician for the Agricultural Research Service in Wapato, Washington. In my studies as an undergraduate and in my job experience post graduation, I enjoyed the science, but the sense of helping others was abstract. I knew I needed something different, and after a lot of thought I came to the conclusion that I wanted to pursue medicine,” she continued. Alana began attending YVCC in September 2011 and finished her prerequisite courses in June 2013. “While attending YVCC I was able to network with PNWU faculty and students. This was extremely valuable. I could not have prepared for medical school without YVCC offering the science courses I needed to stay local,” she concluded. Following YVCC Lautensleger was accepted into PNWU and will begin medical school in August. Ultimately, she hopes to work in primary care or family care in the Yakima Valley.

Larson Gallery Earns Excellence in Publication AwardThe Washington Museum Association recognizes the Larson Gallery for its printed invitation to two coordinated exhibits—Leo Adams: Art Home at Larson Gallery and Leo Adams: Art Life at Yakima Valley Museum—opening in the same city, on the same night, and in conjunction with book publication. The simple design shows how several entities can come together to produce a cohesive product that is both informational and beautiful. The invitation centers on the artist but each component is equally represented. The Larson Gallery is recognized for an elevated level of achievement to which all museums in Washington State should aspire. Contributors to the project were David Lynx (Larson Gallery), John Baule and Andy Granitto (Yakima Valley Museum), Ed Marquand (Marquand Books), Rob Prout (photographer) and Leo Adams (artist). The final design was coordinated and completed by David Lynx.

YVCC’s Veterans Challenge Coin Ceremony Larson Gallery earns the 2014 Washington Museum Association Excellence in Publication Award.

Department of Visual Arts - The Department of Visual Arts (DoVA) exhibit has been a fixture in the Larson Gallery for more than 40 years. The exhibit contained over 200 works completed by YVCC students during the spring, summer and fall quarters of 2013, and winter of 2014. Drawing, painting, art appreciation, clay, design, metalsmithing, and digital photography classes were all represented. Of the many awards presented to the student artists, the Associated Students of YVCC Purchase Award was presented to Liliana Strong for her pieces titled Bloodlines. The paintings will be displayed in the Hopf Union Building. This year DoVA recognized and honored Bob Fisher who retired from teaching at the end of December, with the exhibition of the last three quarters of his student’s work. Fisher has been an inspirational and influential art instructor at YVCC for more than 25 years.

Grape to Glass Gala - In May YVCC’s Vineyard & Winery Technology Program hosted the annual Grape to Glass Gala. The event, now in its 8th year, benefits student scholarships. This year was a great success, boasting the largest attendance for the winemaker dinner event and raising over $11,000. Attendees included recent YVCC graduates and several alum of the program who were past scholarship recipients. “I am thankful for everyone who donated and sponsored our event, and those attendees who value the scholarship program,” stated Trent Ball, agriculture department head. Former students Federico Lopez and Carolina Warwick, who were part of the original program cohort in 2007, poured wine during the appetizer and social. Federico works for Wilridge Winery as the Tasting Room General Manager and Carolina is the Assistant Winemaker at Kestrel Vintners. Food for the five course meal was prepared by Guerra’s Catering and served by YV-Tech culinary students. Live music was played by local musicians Smooth As Jazz. As part of the fundraising efforts, the Gala hosts a live auction. Unique this year was the first Cabernet Franc and Lemberger wines produced from YVCC’s Teaching Vineyard located on the Grandview Campus grounds. The two Magnums raised $800. “What a great community to be a part of, one that places such a high emphasis on education and student success,” concluded Ball.

Herodotus - Gedosch Award - For the past 20 years YVCC Political Science Instructor Dr. Tim Jeske, along with his colleagues in the History Department, have continued the tradition of recognizing an outstanding student with the annual Herodotus- Gedosch Award. The award honors former YVCC History Instructor Robert Gedosch. This year Dr. Jeske and Dr. Ken Zontek presented the award to two students; Sadie Cardon and Wendy McAleer. The student’s names are engraved on a permanent plaque that hangs in Glenn Anthon Hall. Cardon and McAleer earned their associate in arts degree in June and plan to transfer in the fall. Cardon to Brigham Young University and McAleer to Central Washington University.

Business Plan Competition - The first annual YVCC-SCORE Business Plan Competition is proud to announce the YVCC student finalists. First place is Horse Thief Lodge by Ida Moses-Hyipeer, second place is Dream Night Hall by Guadalupe Gutierrez-Rangel, and third place is North West Life Group by Estevan Escamilla. “I am very thankful to have the participation of our SCORE counselors and YVCC judges,” stated Economics Instructor Dr. Brock Eubanks. “These participants did an excellent job on their business plans, and fully participated in all of the competition activities and training opportunities,” he concluded.

Student Activities

Student Activities

YVCC Salsa Band- YVCC’s Salsa Band is making international connections and bridging countries, communities, and musicians through music. What started as a shared music experience project between YVCC’s Director of Music David Blink and a few music educators in New York has turned into a collaboration between the city of Yakima and her sister city, Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico. Blink has become instrumental in creating opportunities for his students to travel and share cultural music exchanges as well as organizing the annual Latin Music Celebration hosted in his hometown of Yakima. In March the YVCC Salsa Band was invited to Morelia to perform at Jazztival 2014. The festival drew musicians from Spain, Cuba, Mexico, and the United States. Jazztival hosts more than 10,000 attendees and is sponsored by the Secretary of Culture, the Universidad Michoacán de San Nicolas de Hidalgo, the Yakima-Morelia Sister City Association, and Mark P. Mauriat Saxophones. In addition to directing YVCC’s Salsa Band, Blink and his colleague Juan Alzate started a new band, the Yakima-Morelia Jazz All Stars, consisting of David Blink (trumpet, handpan), Juan Alzate (saxophone), Flavio Menese (guitar), John Sanders (accordion, piano), Jeff Norwood (bass), Memo Acevedo (drums, percussion), and Robert Vizcaino (percussion). This group headlined at the Jazztival. These professional musicians also hosted workshops for students to share musical and cultural exchanges during the festival. Following the visit to Morelia, the YVCC Salsa Band hosted its musical friends in Yakima for the 8th annual Latin Music Celebration. The week-long festival brings in guest artists from New York, Mexico, and around the Northwest to perform concerts, workshops, and cultural exchanges with residents of the Yakima Valley. This year’s partners included The Capital Theatre, Yakima-Morelia Sister City Association, Heritage University, Toppenish School District, The Seasons Performance Hall, and Ted Brown Music. The YVCC Salsa Band is unique. The group consists of YVCC students, high school students attending Running Start at YVCC, and community musicians and educators. “I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to witness what the true purpose of music is all about: bringing people together,” stated band member and YVCC alum Michael David Bushman. “The YVCC Salsa Band has been instrumental in sharing these experiences not only with musicians but with the community, locally and nationally,” he concluded. This is exactly what the Yakima-Morelia Sister City Association hopes to accomplish. Blink and Alzate feel music is a way to bridge cultural divides. The final component of this project is a documentary film titled Building Bridges. Central Washington University film faculty and students traveled with the YVCC Salsa Band to Mexico and attended the Latin Music Celebration. The film will showcase the academic and cultural exchange of musicians in Yakima and Morelia and will be released in the fall.

Did you know? As YVCC celebrates its 85th commencement this June, historian Jim Newbill reminds us of an important date in YVCC’s history. “On August 24, 1933 the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) struck Congdon Orchards. About 100 workers along with the IWW used rocks and clubs in a pitched battle of the west Nob Hill site. The farmers won and, with the help from the state patrol and local sheriffs, escorted their bruised foe east ward to 16th Ave where several of the union workers broke away, running, across the alfalfa field (now the central YVCC campus). They were corralled by the farm owners some of whom rode Congdon Orchards horses. The union prisoners were charged with assault and, by December, were released with the promise to leave Yakima County, which they did. Yakima Junior College, founded in 1928, would start a new campus in 1949 on the 16th Ave & Nob Hill alfalfa fields.In Clio’s Corner we share historical facts and memories about our college. A special thanks to Mr. Jim Newbill, longtime YVCC history instructor and current honorary director of the YVCC Foundation for his contributions to this idea.

Criminal JusticeYVCC’s Criminal Justice (CJ) Program regularly collaborates with law enforcement and corrections officers to enhance the students’ education. These experiences help CJ students explore possible career paths. It also provides students opportunities to contribute to their community’s safety while assisting with officer training. “Throughout my 20+ years at YVCC I have coordinated various experiential educational opportunities for my students. Examples include participating in SWAT training as actors, demonstrations of building searches by local police officers, interviews with a panel of CJ professionals in mock oral boards, scheduling ride-alongs with law enforcement, and participating in the Valley Civil Disturbance Unit training,” stated Criminal Justice Program Head Janet Foster Goodwill. “CJ students are encouraged to take advantage of any training opportunity made available to them. I can talk about what the work or experience is like in the classroom environment, but until the students actually get exposed to it and take part in it, the light bulb doesn’t go on,” she continued. For the past two years, Foster Goodwill has worked with Detective Mike Murphy from Tukwila Police Department and Lieutenant John Stieben from Federal Way Police Department to coordinate students participating in the Valley Civil Disturbance Unit training. This year, over 50 students attended. They were assigned various roles as actors in mock scenes to provide realistic training for 175 officers from various law enforcement agencies. “The students had a chance to network with the officers and discuss potential employment opportunities,” continued Foster Goodwill. “This is a great way for our students to experience actual police work and develop contacts for future positions,” she concluded. CJ student Ben Wilson expressed how these learning opportunities have enhanced his experience at YVCC. “These classes that incorporate hands-on training experiences strengthen your skills and bring you to a confidence level where you will feel comfortable knowing that you have been taught and prepared for your future career in criminal justice,” he said.

Rachel Gasseling, Melanie Packard, and Steve Isaak

Psychology This spring YVCC students Rachel Gasseling, Steve Isaak, and Melanie Packard enrolled in Psychology 209: Fundamentals of Psychological Research taught by Dr. Heidi Shaw. The three students learned and applied social science research skills by conducting interviews and focus groups with other students about practices instructors engage in that support student success. This project was based on a research model developed by Dr. Kathleen Ross at Heritage University, YVCC’s Title V Cooperative grant partner. The students authored a report of their findings titled Breakthrough Strategies: An inquiry to teaching strategies and the course syllabus and presented their findings and recommendations to the YVCC administration and Board of Trustees. The student-authored report will be used as a starting point in creating instructional videos for faculty about practices students have identified as helpful to student success. The student researchers were enthusiastic about the value of this experience-based learning course as well as the importance of the data they collected for improving the student experience at YVCC. All three students will continue their education this fall and plan to pursue bachelor’s degrees in psychology. Gasseling is transferring to the University of Hawaii, Manoa. Isaak has dual admission with YVCC and Central Washington University. Packard will be attending Brigham Young University.

Enhancing Education Outside the Classroom

Criminal Justice students participate in the Valley Civil Disturbance Unit Training.

Experiential Education

YVCC FoundationThe YVCC Foundation has a rich tradition of providing financial support to YVCC students and has awarded an estimated 4,800 scholarships worth $3.5 million since its inception in 1977. With more than 135 donors who have established endowed funds, the Board of Directors’ primary mission is to provide scholarships for students. Directors volunteer countless hours reviewing the numerous applications submitted each year. The Foundation provided 170 scholarships totaling close to $415,000 for the 2014-2015 academic year. “The Foundation has almost doubled what we have awarded in years past,” stated YVCC Foundation Executive Director Stacey Kautz. “We are awarding scholarships to more students with more money per scholarship to help offset rising costs of attending college,” she concluded. The annual Foundation Scholarship Ceremony was held on June 10.

Noyce ScholarsThis spring Yakima Valley Community College students Kassandra Guajardo and Linzy Mutch learned that they had been selected by Central Washington University as members of the Robert Noyce SMART Program. This program is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and works to encourage talented science and mathematics students to pursue teaching careers. Through the scholarship program, the NSF hopes to increase the number of K-12 teachers with strong science and mathematics knowledge who teach in high-needs schools. It also provides professional support and mentorship to improve the quality of teaching, and financial support aimed at developing curriculum. Eligible students receive $16,000 for one year or $35,000 for two years. Both Guajardo and Mutch received the maximum of $35,000. Kassandra Guajardo was born in Wapato, Washington and graduated from Wapato High School in 2012. She began attending YVCC the following fall. Originally pursuing a degree in architectural engineering, Guajardo quickly fell in love with chemistry and math and decided to switch her major to mathematics and education. “I like YVCC’s small class size. It has allowed me to get to know other students in my specific area of study,” stated Guajardo. This summer she will graduate from YVCC with an associate of arts transfer degree. She will transfer to CWU to pursue her bachelor’s degree. Ultimately, she hopes to teach math at the high school or community college level. Linzy Mutch attended YVCC through the Running Start Program as a junior at West Valley High School. After studying at the college for a year, Mutch decided to return to high school during her senior year, making it easier to focus on her commitment to marching band and allowing her to share in the memorable high school experiences with her classmates. Graduating from high school in 2012 she reenrolled at YVCC to complete the coursework needed for an associate of arts degree. Linzy graduated this June. In the fall she will transfer to Central Washington University to pursue a degree in mathematics and teaching.

Rotary Club of YakimaThis spring the Rotary Club of Yakima awarded three sets of scholarships to local students pursing degrees in the 2014-2015 academic year. Seventeen of those students will be attending YVCC next year. Vocational scholarships received by YVCC students include Blanca Almaguer, Matthew Feltrup, Shelby Grenz, Crystal Hedrick, Francis Razey, Blanca Rodriguez-Mendoza, Bertha Sanchez, and Eva Torres. The academic scholarships were awarded to YVCC Running Start students Emily George, Jacob Mahugh, and Reagan Ramynke. The final set of scholarships were awarded from the Yakima Rotary Trust in honor of Mary Monroe Davis. These scholarships were awarded to YVCC students Steven Dickerson, Matthew Feltrup, Tianna LaTour, Ermila Preciado, Heidi Sadler, Ariana Santiago, and Daniel Shelton.

Kassandra Guajardo

YVCC Foundation Annual Awards Ceremony

Linzy Mutch

Scholarships

This spring the Women’s Softball Program played well as they battled through some close games. Unfortunately, many of those games ended in a one-run loss. Individual honors included First Team All-East Region by sophomore Kayla Reynolds (pitcher). Second Team honors were given to sophomores Kylie Harper (outfield) and Josee’ Saldua (catcher). All-Academic Team honors included Kayla Reynolds, Bailey Turner, and Kayla Weishaar. “My players should be very proud of their effort and performance,” stated Head Coach Chuck Bodeen. “We played everyone very tough, and when we were healthy, we beat Clackamas Community College, when they were undefeated. Our record wasn’t what we hoped for, but we played hard, even with the injury of two key players,” he continued. The Yak’s will return five players next year and have commitments from seven new student-athletes for next season.

Each year coaches representing all of the YVCC athletic programs vote on the athlete of the year awards. This year the Male Athlete of the Year Award, named after Larry Densley, was awarded to baseball player Hugo Lemus. Given in honor of Mary Sherar, the Female Athlete of the Year Award was presented for the second consecutive year to volleyball and basketball player Katina Ferguson. Sophomore Hugo Lemus is a pitcher for the Yak’s Baseball Program. He was named First Team All-East Region after posting an 8-1 record with a 2.59 ERA. He was also named to the All-Academic Team with a GPA of 3.63. Hugo earned his associate in arts degree in June and is currently pitching for the Yakima Pippins of the West Coast League. Sophomore Katina Ferguson had a successful season with YVCC’s Volleyball Team earning First Team All-East Region as an outside hitter for the second season in a row. Ferguson also represented YVCC in the Sophomore All-Star game after leading the Yaks to the NWAACC Championship Tournament. Kat also played basketball for YVCC. She completed her associate in arts degree in June. This spring she signed a National Letter of Intent to play volleyball next fall at Eastern Oregon University.

Athlete of the Year

Softball

Yaks Give Back to the CommunitySoftballAlong with their time on the softball field, the Yaks hosted a free clinic for 13 girls on Yakima’s National Little League Team. The batting clinic helped this first-year team focus on improving its skills. “The girls received one-on-one coaching from my YVCC players. It was really neat to see our Yaks mentor the little league players. It was a great experience for all,” stated Head Coach Chuck Bodeen.

SoccerThis spring Assistant Soccer Coach Juan Pineda volunteered as a referee and organizer for Special Olympics Unified Sports. “I have volunteered many times before but never felt such joy when I was working with these beautiful children,” stated Pineda. “Many times these children don’t have the same opportunities other kids have so we need caring people to create these events for them. I know these kids have a champion inside them and I want to help them get that champion out when they play soccer,” he continued. Pineda also had the opportunity to use his coaching skills to help the Sunnyside team play in the final championship game.

Athletics

Hugo Lemus Katina Ferguson YVCC Softball Team Coach Juan Pineda at the Special Olympics

People

Classified Employee of the Quarter RetirementsThis year YVCC said goodbye to several valued employees. Retirees included: Counselor Kathryn Bauer, Basic Skills Instructor Mary Brunelle, Reading Instructor Marlene Cousens, Art Instructor Robert Fisher, Office Assistant Lead Gwen Guinn, Purchasing Manager Claudia Hoffbauer, Information Tech Specialist III Ronald Ness, Facilities Maintenance Specialist Charles Poole, Administrative Assistant Josie Riojas, Program Assistant Sally Seltzer, Fiscal Tech II Verna Shafer, Program Assistant Judi Shaw, Basic Skills Instructor Kimberly Stegeman and Director of Library and Media Services Joan Weber. YVCC employees were saddened by the loss of Payroll Supervisor Shirley Merriam. Merriam was an alum of YVCC and worked in the business office for over 44 years.

Student Government Awards The Associated Students of YVCC recognized several individuals at the spring recognition event. Awards include: Alicia Bickley, Teacher of the Year; Carol Schneider, Advisor of the Year; Roxanne Baca, Classified Staff of the Year; Kelly Robbins, Exempt Staff of the Year; Jose Andrade, Student of the Year; Art Club, Club of the Year; and Math Center, Program of the Year. The Grandview Student Council also presented awards to Silvia Martin, Staff of the Year; Heidi Matlack, Faculty of the Year; and Leslie Erickson, Student of the Year.

Foster Care Program Alumni AwardYVCC Alumni Holly Allen recently earned the 2013 Outstanding Youth Leader Award from FosterClub. Nationally, 100 youth leaders are chosen each year. Holly spent 17 years in Washington’s Foster Care System. Following graduation from Riverside High School she enrolled at YVCC. She also became active in The Mockingbird Society, where she served as a mentor in the college mentorship program and was involved with the Foster Teen Program and Casey Family Programs. After YVCC, Holly transferred to Central Washington University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education.

YVCC Board of TrusteesThis May the YVCC Board of Trustees hosted the statewide conference of the Trustees Association for Community and Technical Colleges. The event was held in Yakima and hosted trustees, college presidents, and district chancellors from community and technical colleges around the state.

Connie Jensen

Faculty AccomplishmentsTechnology Instructor David Dalton was recently recognized by the Cisco Networking Academy as an Expert Level Instructor of Cisco. This award recognizes David’s achievement as one of the top 10% of instructors globally in the areas of participation in professional development, attention to student needs, student performance, and use of resources.

Accounting Instructor and Business Administration Program Head John Evanson was recently presented with the 2014 Advancing the Dream Award by Central Washington University’s College of Business. The award recognizes the outstanding contribution of instructors in community colleges throughout Washington. Nominations for the award are submitted by students, faculty, and staff, and one instructor is chosen. Evanson was presented with the award at the 21st annual College of Business Honors Banquet in May.

YVCC Dental Hygiene Instructor Debbie Mahre successfully defended her master’s thesis in December. Her thesis, Survey of the Cancer Patient Experience with Patient Education, is a descriptive study that included 75 patients from North Star Lodge. The study assessed patient recall of receiving patient education on oral health and hygiene and looked for modifications to oral health practices of the patient that might have been the result of patient education.

Grandview Writing Center Lead Consultant Kim Nolt recently had her study article entitled, Impacts of Gender within Learning Communities published in the spring 2014 issue of Synergy, the online journal of the Association for the Tutoring Profession.

Congratulations to Program Assistant Connie Jensen. She is the award recipient of the Spring 2014 Classified Employee of the Quarter. Jensen works in the Workforce Education Division in the Allied Health Center of Excellence. She began working at the college in 2008.

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