Penguin Talks

Penguin Talks poster with titles of the talks listed

Here’s an opportunity to leave campus at lunchtime and head to Vancouver Community Library, about a mile away to hear interesting thought leaders, including Clark College’s own Vice President of Instruction Dr. Terry Brown, talk about critical topics impacting our community.

What: Clark College and Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries are partnering to present Penguin Talks, a lunchtime speaker series on three consecutive Thursdays in October.

When: Noon to 1:00 p.m. on three consecutive Thursdays: October 17, 24, and 31, 2024

Where: The Columbia Room at Vancouver Community Library, 901 C Street, Vancouver

Who: Local experts will share their knowledge and insights on critical topics

  • October 17: Dr. Terry Brown presents “The Power of Education”
  • October 24: Melissa Williams presents “Red, White and Brown: Race in the United States”
  • October 31: Jhon Kuppens presents “Native American, Indigenous or Indian?”

How to attend: Bring your lunch, and come ready to learn, discuss, and engage with local thought leaders. These events are open to the public and provided at no cost.

Details: https://fvrl.librarymarket.com/index.php/clark-college-penguin-talks

October 17: The Power of Education with Dr. Terry Brown

Throughout his many years of experience in higher education, Dr. Terry Brown has witnessed the transformational power of education in the lives of students, their families, and the communities higher educational institutions serve.

Dr. William “Terry” Brown joined Clark College in July 2024 as Vice President of Instruction. Prior to coming to Clark, he was Associate Vice President for Strategic Operations and Partnership Development at Connecticut State Community College, New Britain, Connecticut. Dr. Brown holds a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of Florida, a Master of Arts degree in clinical psychology, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in clinical psychology, both from the University of Delaware.

Dr. Brown brings with him more than 30 years of experience in both teaching and leading in colleges in Connecticut, Delaware, and Tennessee. At Clark College, Dr. Brown oversees the college’s 650+ faculty members and the college’s instruction unit, including more than 100 academic and workforce programs including five bachelor of applied science degrees.

October 24: Red, White, and Brown: Race in the United States with Melissa Williams

Explore the formation of race in the United States and its lasting consequences. Learn how to define systemic racism and begin steps to mitigate its impacts.

Melissa Williams is the Policy Associate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. She has almost 20 years of experience working in administrative leadership positions in higher education, including 13 years at Clark College. She serves on the Alumni Board of Clark College Foundation.

October 31: Native American, Indigenous or Indian? with Jhon Kuppens

Jhon Kuppens, enrolled member of the San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians Gabrielino/Tongva, will speak about American Indian tribal histories, sovereignty, federal trust responsibility, and rights. Kuppens will explore the impact of tribal politics, culture, law, jurisdiction, and values while examining the legacy of historical trauma.                           

Kuppens holds a Master of Legal Studies degree in Indigenous Peoples Law from the University of Oklahoma College of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science from Washington State University.

Register for each session here: https://www.campusce.net/clark/course/course.aspx?catId=335