Author and abolitionist educator Dr. Bettina L. Love closed out a week of events on campus that honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the National Day of Racial Healing. During the college’s annual MLK celebration presented by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the college community had opportunities to participate in three events designed to restore, educate, and empower.

Vanessa Neal, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, summarized the week’s events: “What an honor to host Dr. Bettina Love on our campus to complete our week honoring Dr. King. Dr. Love’s words were thought-provoking and for me, affirming.”

She added, “The 2025 MLK Celebration at Clark College is more than a series of events—it’s a call to action. Whether through restorative practices, insightful dialogue, or powerful keynote addresses, this week will leave you inspired to continue Dr. King’s work of justice and equality.”

January 21 – Sound Bath

In alignment with the National Day of Racial Healing, we began our journey with a restorative healing space—a sound bath—a healing session that prepared participants to engage in the week’s events. It was an opportunity to connect within and find the balance needed to pursue equitable outcomes.

Sound bath therapist Hiroko Hibbard from Healing Hado led two sessions in Gaiser Hall 213. As people entered the room, she invited them to find a comfortable position on a yoga mat, the floor or a chair.  She uses crystal bowls, gongs, and other sound-healing instruments to create a tranquil atmosphere.

Referring to a sound bath as “one of the great preventative medicines,” Hibbard explained that a sound bath combines the healing power of sound frequencies and vibrations with aromatherapy. Participating in a sound bath can help reduce stress, balance energy, and promote overall wellbeing.

“Everyone will experience the power of sound frequency,” she said. Then as people settled in and breathed deeply, the sounds began reverberating throughout the room.

If you’re curious about what a sound bath is, here’s a video of a sound bath.

January 22 – Book Discussion

Vanessa Neal led a thought-provoking discussion of Dr. Bettina Love’s book, Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal. The discussion preceded Dr. Love’s keynote address by exploring the historical and systemic barriers to educational equity and how we can envision healing pathways.

Tables were together to form a big circle in the Penguin Lounge, PUB 161 so that people could discuss some big ideas in Dr. Love’s book: telling your truth, white rage, erasure, school integration, reform and more.

Neal started by saying: “There’s not a closure piece to Dr. Love’s book. Accept non-closure. Be open to researching and learning on your own.”

Excerpts from the Book Discussion:

• “Why is truth telling so important to racial healing? Why is it important to center truth on racial healing?”
• “Our stories define us and how we interact with each other. Often, we make up stories about the person in front of us. When there’s space for truth, you realize you’re not the only one who experienced that.”
• “If we’re not speaking truth, whose life are we living?”
• “There was no space for Black children at school. They were actively erased.”
• “Erasure means I don’t acknowledge you as being human.”
• “When I think about erasure, I think of a pencil eraser. It takes deliberate, intentional effort to erase. It’s an engineering feat to erase—to dehumanize people.”

Vanessa Neal wrapped up the session by saying some progress has been made, but there is still so much work to be done. How do people do the work, but not get overwhelmed?

Neal asked, “So what is your action? What can you do? What will you do?”

Paraphrasing Michelle Obama, Neal said, “Do something. Pick something.”

January 23 – Keynote Presentation by Dr. Bettina L. Love

Wrapping up the college’s week of events honoring the legacy of Dr. King, Dr. Bettina L. Love spoke to an attentive audience in Gaiser Student Center. Dr. Bettina Love holds the esteemed William F. Russell Professorship at Teachers College, Columbia University, and is the acclaimed author of Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal, a New York Times bestseller.

In her keynote, Dr. Love delved into the struggles and possibilities of creating a future rooted in abolitionist teaching. She is the author of We Want to Do More Than Survive: Abolitionist Teaching and the Pursuit of Educational Freedom.

Abolitionist teaching is built on creativity, imagination, boldness, ingenuity, and rebellious spirit and methods of abolitionists to demand and fight for an educational system where all students are thriving, not simply surviving.

This event was open not only to the Clark community, but also to the greater community. Some educators had driven a distance to attend. One had taken a wellness day at work to attend.

Dr. Love provided insight into Dr. King’s work, beginning with his inspiring speech during the August 28, 1963, March on Washington and going up to the Poor People’s Campaign.

Excerpts from Dr. Love’s presentation:

• “Racism is a byproduct of capitalism and greed.”
• “Dr. King is saying for real justice, it’s about your values. If your values don’t change, what’s the point?”
• “Your fate is tied to another person’s fate. You don’t get to step out of this. We are entangled together.”

Dr. Love to college students: “You’re here not just to learn, but to be transformed by what you learn. If you don’t leave here with more critical thinking, more humanity, that’s a problem.”

Dr. Love quoted Dr. King:

“For years I labored with the idea of reforming the existing institutions of the South, a little change here, a little change there. Now I feel quite differently. I think you’ve got to have a reconstruction of the entire society, a revolution of values.” — Dr. King told journalist David Halberstam in April 1967

In Dr. King’s last book, Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community, he wrote: “A year (after the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965), the white backlash had become an emotional electoral issue in California, Maryland and elsewhere. In several Southern states, men long regarded as political clowns had become governors or only narrowly missed election, their magic achieved with a ‘witches’ brew of bigotry, prejudice, half-truths and whole lies.”

Resources – Learn more about:

• Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King at The King Center website
• The Poor People’s Campaign at the National Civil Rights Museum
• Dr. King’s last book: Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community
• Google’s 25 years in search: The Most Searched: A Celebration of  Black History Makers (video)
• Dr. Love’s website, including her books and learning tools
• Clark College BUILD Bookclub questions created for We Want to Do More Than Survive, read Library article

All photos: Clark College
More photos from the keynote are available to view on our Flickr page.

Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards was presented the Compass Award at “Rising Together,” the 15^th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast on January 20, MLK Day, at ilani Hotel and Resort in Ridgefield. The event is hosted by iUrban Teen.

The Compass Award is given to a person or organization who “encompasses equity as a north star.” A long-time educator with over 35 years of experience in higher education administration, Dr. Edwards found her niche in community colleges where she has witnessed the transformational power that education has in the lives of students and in the communities they serve.

Dr. Edwards said, “I am humbled to be recognized with a Compass Award at this event, and I look forward to continuing Dr. King’s vision through the college’s work. I hope everyone will find opportunities to contribute toward cultivating a more equal and just society to bring us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a beloved community.”

Clark College Foundation and Clark trustees and staff attended the event in support for Dr. Edwards and her equity work at the college.

The annual event celebrating Dr. King’s legacy featured:

• Compass Award presentation to Dr. Karin Edwards
• Keynote speaker Keyonda McQuarters, inspirational leader and wellness advocate
• Welcome by Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnery-Ogle
• Messages from spiritual leaders Pastor Joyce Smith and Pastor Matthew J. Hennessee
• Performance by Kings Return, Grammy-nominated a cappella group

iUrban Teen posted this message on its Facebook page: Join IUrban Teen as we honor Dr. King’s legacy with an inspiring morning of inspirational speakers, unity, reflection, and community, featuring Grammy-nominated, a cappella sensation Kings Return. Together, we rise to create a brighter future!

Gaiser Hall’s Student Center bustled with activity as hundreds of students, staff, and faculty gathered for Clark’s Winter Involvement Fair in the Gaiser Hall Student Center on January 15. The Student Involvement Fair, which is held at the beginning of every quarter, is an excellent way for students—particularly new students—to learn more about these programs, clubs, services, and opportunities.

Student Kasandra Wickstrom, a Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society member who is pursuing an environmental science degree at Clark, was one of the hundreds of students making connections with clubs, programs, and departments during the event.

She said, “This brightens the experience here at Clark. It’s not just classes and tutoring. It’s making connections with others. It really shows the college cares.”

At the event, she and other students had the opportunity to connect with student-led clubs and initiatives, such as the STEM Nerd Girls club, focused on empowering women in science and math programs. Students also connected with peers with shared interests—from learning about other languages and cultures to getting their writing and artwork shared in student publications (The Swift, The Iceberg, and The Phoenix).  

Clark College took the opportunity to inform students about wrap-around services. The library, tutoring, the Counseling and Health Center, and other student-facing offices hosted tables.

Not just tables, the fair also had popular attractions like a photo booth, a selection of donuts at the ASCC table, and free drinks from Pacific Perks Coffee.

Participating clubs, programs, departments, and more included (in alpha order):

• Activities Programming Board
• ADHD Club
• ASCC (Associated Students of Clark College) Student Government
• Campus Security & Safety
• Clark College Libraries
• Counseling and Health Center
• Columbia Writers Series
• CRU Club
• Decker Theatre
• STEM Nerd Girls & Engineering Program
• Environmental Club
• Get There Southwest Washington
• Japanese Program
• Korean Culture Club
• Latine Student Union
• League of Women Voters
• MESA (Mathematics, Engineering & Science Achievement)
• Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• Outdoors Club (coming soon!)
• Period, the Menstrual Movement (new at Clark!)
• Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
• Philosophy Club
• Spanish Club
• Student Employment
• The Iceberg
• The Phoenix
• The Swift
• Tutoring

See here for a complete list of Clark College ASCC’s student programs and clubs.

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

PUB 161 was packed with the Clark College community—both present and past—as they gathered to share stories about former Clark President Bob Knight during a remembrance event on January 10.

Knight, who led Clark College as president from 2007 to 2019, passed away on December 14. He was 67.

Penguin Nation Remembers Bob Knight

Julie Taylor, who worked in the president’s office, experienced Knight’s sense of humor and practical jokes daily.

Taylor said, “Bob had a tradition of buying the loudest, most obnoxious penguin toys and lined them up on my counter. As he left for the day, he would activate every penguin toy on his way out, and said, ‘See you later, Julie.’” Taylor would be serenaded by a loud, obnoxious penguin chorus at the end of every day.

Mark Magdaleno, head baseball coach, said that in his 43 years as a professional baseball coach, Bob Knight understood the value of student athletes. He said, “Bob knew our athletes had a choice of what college to attend. He embraced our athletes in their choice to attend Clark.”

Magdeleno said Knight often attended Penguin baseball games, even after he retired. He added, “He cared about his student athletes. He cared about this school. God bless you. Let’s go, Penguins!”

Michelle Golder, event services manager, shared several stories about Bob’s fun-loving nature and the office pranks: “Bob lived every day to the fullest. He loved Clark and genuinely believed the work we did was making a difference in our community. He created the presidential coin to recognize Clark employees for going above and beyond.”

She added, “After I organized my first commencement, Bob found me in my cubicle to especially thank me for a job well done. Kindness came second nature to Bob. He was one of the most genuine people who cared about others.”

Kathrena Halsinger, Interim Dean of Social Sciences and Fine Arts, recalled that Knight greeted her whenever they saw each other walking on campus. He also frequently attended the annual release parties for The Phoenix and opened the event.

Rhianna Johnson, currently director of Guided Pathways and Partnerships, was the director of Clark’s educational programs at Larch Corrections Center in Yacolt when Knight was president.

Johnson said, “Bob was so supportive of the program. He always attended the graduation ceremonies. He also came to play basketball with Larch students. He really cared about helping incarcerated people reenter society successfully.” She added, “We used to have Clark faculty and staff softball games. Bob was, of course, the pitcher.”

Wilma Raines, a Clark alum and a longtime donor to Clark College students and athletics, was Knight’s workout buddy at O’Connell Sports Center. Raines said, “We hit the gym every morning at 6:30, and started with the elliptical.”

Ceci Ryan-Smith, who was a Clark College alumni board president and Clark College Foundation board member when Knight was hired, said the leadership went around and around about Knight not holding a Ph.D. in Education, which is a typical requirement for a community college president. But Ryan-Smith spoke up on Knight’s behalf: “He may not have a Ph.D. in education, but he had a Ph.D. in life. I believe ultimately, we all won because we got Bob.”

Sudha Fredrick, vice president of Information Technology Service, Steven Clark, biology professor, and Sylvia Thornburg, who was dean of Instructional Planning during Knight’s tenure, were among those who also shared their “Bob” stories.

Calen Ouellette, Chief Executive Officer at Clark College Foundation, served as emcee. He wrapped up the program by saying: “In closing, I encourage each of you to carry Bob’s example with you. Whether it’s through a kind word, a purposeful act of service, or a bold step toward a better future—honor his legacy by making a positive impact, just as he did. Thank you for joining us today to remember Bob Knight. His legacy will forever inspire the Penguin Nation.”

Learn more:

Read our December 20, 2024, story recapping Bob Knight’s legacy and milestones at Clark College.

Read The Columbian’s January 13, 2025, story recapping Bob Knight’s memorial service attended by hundreds at the Vancouver waterfront.

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

Winter Welcome Week kicked off on Monday, January 6 with a misty, then sunny first day of winter term. Thanks to the helpful volunteers who staffed the information tables inside buildings all around campus and answered students’ questions. Assisting students at the beginning of each term would not be possible without so many staff and faculty volunteering their time to help Clark students.

Just as in fall term, parking lots were crowded as thousands of students returned to classrooms and labs across the main campus, the Clark College Building at Washington State University Vancouver, and Clark’s Columbia Tech Center after winter break.

January 6 also marked the first day for two new interim vice presidents at Clark:

• Dr. Mark Wahlers, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs
• Dr. Darcy Rourk, Interim Vice President of Human Resources

Both Dr. Wahlers and Dr. Rourk are expected to serve through the academic year. Searches for the permanent vice presidents will begin in late January or early February.

Dr. Mark Wahlers, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs

In an email to faculty and staff, Dr. Karin Edwards introduced the new interim vice president of Student Affairs: “We were fortunate to work with The Registry in identifying strong candidates for the interim Vice President of Student Affairs. After careful consideration, we selected Dr. Mark Wahlers. Dr. Wahlers brings extensive experience in higher education and a deep understanding of student and academic affairs. Additionally, as a resident of our area, he is familiar with Clark College and the Clark County community.”

Dr. Mark Wahlers has worked for more than 40 years in higher education leadership. During his 25 years at Concordia University in Portland, he served as provost for 16 years as well as provost at Concordia’s Japan campus in Tokyo, and vice president of student affairs and enrollment management.

Previously, he spent 12 years in leadership roles at Concordia University in Austin, Texas, including dean of students, dean of institutional services and almost 3 years as chief administrative officer at Concordia College in Bronxville, New York. Before pursuing administrative roles, he was professor of English Rhetoric and Literature at Concordia University in Austin for 7 years. He also served as principal at the Lutheran Language Institute in Tokyo.

Dr. Wahlers holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Concordia University Nebraska, a master’s degree in education from Portland State University, and a doctoral degree in education/curriculum and instruction from the University of Texas at Austin.

Dr. Darcy Rourk, Interim Vice President of Human Resources

Dr. Edwards wrote: “Darcy Rourk, former Vice President of Human Resources at Clark College, has graciously agreed to serve in the role. Her expertise and familiarity with the college and our community make her an excellent choice for this role.”

Dr. Rourk worked intermittently at Clark College between 2009 and 2021.

Her career in education spans five decades. Her roles in K-12 education range from teacher, principal, curriculum director, district assistant superintendent, and district superintendent. Next, Dr. Rourk worked at Northwest Regional Education Service District, Oregon’s largest ESD, first as chief personnel officer and then as assistant superintendent.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a master’s degree in curriculum instruction, and a doctoral degree in educational administration, all from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas.

Dr. Edwards added, “Please join me in welcoming Dr. Wahlers and Dr. Rourk to their interim roles. I am confident that their leadership and expertise will be valuable as we continue our efforts to support our students, staff, and faculty.”

We are sorry to share that Bob Knight, who led Clark as president from 2007 to 2019, passed away on December 15. He was 67.

A graduate of the West Point Military Academy, Bob served 21 years in the United States Army before retiring as a lieutenant colonel. He came to the Clark presidency via a non-traditional route, serving previously as the last commander of the historic Vancouver Barracks and as a chief financial officer for major companies in the area. Hired as the vice president of administrative services in 2004, Bob was named interim president and then selected for the permanent position in 2007.

Bob was known to regularly walk the campus, chatting with students, staff and faculty to keep in touch and assess the needs of the college. He coined the phrase “Penguin Nation” to build a sense of camaraderie for the campus and for Clark within the broader community.

Students were always first in Bob’s mind when considering new programs and improvements to existing offerings. During his tenure, Clark underwent a holistic makeover of its academic programs and support services aimed at increasing student completion rates and better preparing graduates of family wage jobs. He launched a $1 million scholarship campaign through Clark College Foundation.

Clark College Milestones Under President Bob Knight’s Leadership:

• 2007: President Bob Knight introduced the presidential coin given to faculty and staff members who provided exemplary service to Clark students, the college and the community.
• October 2008: Clark College celebrated its 75th anniversary and launched a year-long diamond jubilee with a plethora of special events
• February 2009: O’Connell Sports Center dedication with Claude “Skeet” O’Connell, age 93
• September 2009: Columbia Tech Center, Clark’s campus in East Vancouver, opens
• September 2011: Oliva Family Early Learning Center, phase I is dedicated
• April 2012: The college’s Royce E. Pollard Japanese Friendship Garden was dedicated during the annual Sakura Festival
• September 2012: Ribbon cutting for Clark’s Diversity Center in Gaiser Hall
• September 2012: Beacock Music Hall naming ceremony
• September 2013: Clark dedicated its Columbia Credit Union Simulation Pharmacy in the Clark College Building at WSU Vancouver
• March 2014: Clark College opened its Veterans Resource Center. President Bob Knight said, “As a vet myself, it is a proud day for Clark College to be opening a resource center for our student veterans.”
• June 2014: Ribbon cutting for the Firstenburg Dental Hygiene Education and Care Center
• June 2014: The Hank and Bernice Boschma family partnered with Clark College Foundation to provide 60 acres for a Clark College north county satellite campus at the Ridgefield junction
• Fall 2015: Clark offers its first baccalaureate degree, Bachelor of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene
• October 2016: STEM Building ribbon cutting
• Winter 2017: Clark offers its second baccalaureate degree, Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Management
• October 2017: The Penguin Pantry opens, providing free food boxes to students
• November 2017: Tod and Maxine McClaskey Culinary Institute ribbon cutting
• Fall 2018: Clark offers its third baccalaureate degree, Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services

Bob’s Other Contributions to the Clark County Community:

Bob Knight was named 2016 Clark County First Citizen for his service to the community, which included these institutions and organizations:

• American Red Cross, Southwest Washington Chapter
• Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Washington
• Columbia River Economic Development Council
• Fort Vancouver National Trust (now The Historic Trust)
• Rotary Club of Vancouver
• Washington State University Vancouver Advisory Council
• Workforce Southwest Washington

Remembrances from those who worked with Bob Knight:

“Bob often quoted General George Marshall: There is no limit to the good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit. Bob never cared about the credit. But his service and leadership spoke for itself. That’s why he was honored as Clark County’s First Citizen. And that’s the reason for the outpouring of affection and respect in honoring him for a life truly well lived.”
–Barbara Kerr, former Executive Director of Communications and Marketing at Clark College

“Bob was a force of nature. I have many fond memories of our years at Clark: filming silly videos, getting lost during Hood to Coast, commencements at Larch Correctional Facility. I still try to embody several of his leadership traits like the importance of showing up and being present for people, always putting students first, and making the right decision even when it’s the hard choice.”
–Dr. Tim Cook, President, Clackamas Community College; former Clark College Vice President of Instruction

“Bob often said Clark College is all about the student and meant it. He was very approachable as president and truly enjoyed being with the students. One of my favorite memories was when some students challenged him to run through the college’s water feature. The jets would randomly turn on, so you risked getting soaked. Bob didn’t hesitate to take their challenge. He ran across the feature multiple times in his suit and tie, surviving the blasts of water. The students were amazed a college president would take the time and risk the danger to play that game with them. Friendships were built that day. Bob was truly all about the student.”
–Jack Burkman, Port of Vancouver Board of Commissioners, former Clark College Trustee

“Bob is the best of the best—one of a kind. He cared deeply about our community. At Clark College, it was all about the students! As trustees, Addison Jacobs and I did the right thing when we convinced Bob to apply for the presidency. Because of his leadership and vision, he helped stabilize and advance the college. I will cherish each minute we worked together at Clark.”
–Rhona Sen Hoss, former Clark College Trustee

“Bob was a ‘walk around’ leader. He went to people, where they were, across the board. He listened, he was approachable, and he was fun. Because of this, he had support and led the college through a long, healing growth period—a unique and important contribution in Clark College’s history. I am truly saddened to hear of his passing.”
–Addison Jacobs, former Clark College Trustee

Remembering Bob Knight

• The Clark College community and Clark College Foundation will reflect and remember former President Bob Knight on Friday, January 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the main campus (PUB161). The college also will fly the flag at half-mast that day.
• Bob’s family has arranged a memorial service on Monday, January 13 at 11:00 a.m. at the AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront (333 West Columbia Way, Vancouver, Wash.)

Read The Columbian story about Bob Knight passing.

Read Clark College Foundation’s tribute to Bob Knight on his retirement.

View Clark College Foundation’s video tribute to Bob Knight on his retirement.

Student Beheshta Eqbali, a member of Clark’s Phi Theta Kappa honors society, has been named a PTK Visual Arts Award recipient for her painting Afghan Girl. Her work will be published in the 30th edition of Nota Bene, Phi Theta Kappa’s honors anthology, and she will receive a $500 scholarship. The anthology will be printed in 2025.

Eqbali is a student leader in the Activities Programming Board. Her painting is being displayed in the ASCC Student Life offices in PUB 160.

PTK Advisor Darci Feider said, “Beheshta is a valued member of Clark’s PTK chapter. We are so proud of her for receiving the PTK Visual Arts Award for her beautiful painting, Afghan Girl. We’re excited that her work will be published in Nota Bene, and we can’t wait to see her honored in the Parade of Scholars at the PTK Catalyst convention in April. It’s wonderful to see her talent recognized on such a big stage. Our chapter is thrilled to support her and to celebrate this incredible achievement!”

About PTK

Phi Theta Kappa is the international honor society for two-year colleges. PTK recognizes the academic achievement of college students and provides opportunities for its members to grow as scholars and leaders. Clark’s PTK chapter is Alpha Sigma Phi. Students are invited to join PTK when enrolled in at least 12 credits per term and achieve a minimum 3.25 grade point average.

Learn more about Clark’s PTK chapter here.

Q & A with Artist Beheshta Eqbali

Q: How long have you been painting?

BE: Art has been part of my life since I was a kid, but it became something much stronger in my teenage years and continues to be a powerful part of my life today. At first, painting was just a way to express myself without words. English is still new to me. Over time, though, it became something deeper, almost like therapy. It’s where I feel myself most, a space where I can share my thoughts and emotions without saying a word.

Q: What inspired you to paint Afghan Woman? Was there a specific person or event that inspired you?

BE: This painting is inspired by the courage and resilience of Afghan women, especially those who have faced unimaginable hardships yet carry strength in their eyes. It’s also deeply personal for me a way of staying connected to my culture and honoring the people who have shaped me. When I paint, I feel like I’m preserving a piece of my identity, even as I grow and adapt in a new world.

Q: What is the significance of your painting?

BE: For me, Afghan Girl is more than just a painting; it’s a reminder of where I come from and the heritage I carry with me. I see it as a silent storyteller, one that speaks of beauty, struggle, and quiet pride women into Afghan life. Through her expression, I hope others can feel the same depth of love and resilience that I see in my own people.

Q: What field are you studying at Clark?

BE: I’m studying web development because I love creating and problem solving, but painting remains close to my heart. My studies keep me grounded in technology, but painting keeps me balanced. It is where I can explore my creativity. It’s my place to be vulnerable and tell stories that go beyond the digital world and into something more personal. It’s a space where I can connect with my roots and share a part of myself that goes beyond the pixels on a screen.

Learn more

• See Beheshta Eqbali’s painting in the ASCC Student Life offices, PUB 160.
• Read more about PTK’s honors anthology, Nota Bene here
• Read last year’s 29^th edition of Nota Bene here

Vice President of Instruction Dr. William “Terry” Brown shared his story with Clark students, faculty, and staff at the Fall Student of Color Luncheon on November 12 in PUB 161.

The free event is presented each term by Clark’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Multicultural Student Affairs. The purpose of the student luncheons is to allow students and employees to hear inspiring stories, connect with faculty, meet new friends, consider different career paths, and identify community resources and potential mentors.

Dr. Brown began by saying, “Today I have the opportunity to address the most important people here at Clark College—our students.”

Then he spoke directly to the students, weaving his personal stories into his narrative as a Black man growing up in Florida at the beginning of desegregation. He challenged societal norms, earning a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and then a doctorate.  

Dr. Brown said, “Never underestimate what students can achieve.”

He talked about how during the Civil Rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s, and how students were instrumental in bringing about societal change.

“When I look around this room, I see people who are fully capable of changing the world,” he added, “I am convinced that when capable, talented people are supported, there’s no limit to what they can achieve.”

He challenged students: “Nobody does anything really important by themselves. Surround yourself with people who will help you become successful.”

Decide who you want to be:

• Conceive your vision of yourself as a fully functioning human being.
• Choose – There’s power in choice: what you choose to be, where you choose to go, who you choose to spend time with. Not choosing is also a choice.
• Commit to where you’re going and what you’re doing.
• Challenge limitations, especially if they are self-imposed.

Dr. Brown told students: “Challenge your own limitations. Sometimes the biggest obstacles are the limitations we put on ourselves. To students of color, there are enough limitations out there. Don’t put limitations on yourself.”

He added, “People challenged my intellect, my competence, my identity, even my personhood.”

Here are some of the questions people have asked him:

• “Who the hell do you think you are?”
• “Why are you here?”
• “You’re too black.”
• “You’re too white.”

Dr. Brown said, “For the person of color, there will always be some challenge to your personhood. Take time every day to affirm your personhood. Your strengths. Your weaknesses. Where you come from. Where you’re going. This is a fight for our personhood.”

He spoke about the importance of finishing what we start: “Completing a task gives you a record of your accomplishment. You look back on what you’ve already done. That can be your guide to go forward.”

He charged the students to have the courage to conceive their vision of who they are and who they want to be, then to commit to their vision and achieve their vision. “It takes courage to see this through to the end.”

Dr. Brown concluded with a quote from author Marianne Williamson: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?”

Read a story here about Dr. Brown’s Penguin Talks presentation at Vancouver Community Library.

Connect with the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI)

• In-person: Diversity Center, Gaiser Hall 214
• Phone: 360-992-2292
• Email: diversity@clark.edu
• Website: www.clark.edu/cc/diversity

Photo: Clark College/Susan Parrish

The Clark College community gathered to celebrate the open house of the Basic Needs Hub on November 6. Students, staff, faculty, and members of the Clark College Foundation toured the space and greeted the staff.

People chatted on the comfy couches. Some signed their names to penguin prints and pinned them on a bulletin board that says: Penguins Flock Together for Basic Needs. Other visitors helped themselves to coffee, sparkling water, fruit, or donuts. Many stopped to say “hello” to Oso the therapy dog, an important member of the Basic Needs team.

Q: What are the basic needs for Clark students – or any college students?

A: The list of basic needs for students is long: Housing, food, water, clothing, physical health, mental health, childcare, transportation, access to technology, and other needs that students may face difficulty with, and that hinder their ability to begin or continue their enrollment in school.

Clark College and the city of Vancouver provide a comprehensive system of basic needs services to support the personal and academic success of students. The Basic Needs program helps students better navigate and understand all the resources available.

Basic Needs Hub

The Basic Needs Hub is open to all Clark College students, staff, and faculty. Come grab a coffee and a snack, and take a break. They also have computers, printers, and school supplies to help students get their homework done. They also stock supplemental pantry items and hygiene products.

The Basic Needs Team is eager to connect with Clark students, support them in accessing Basic Needs resources, and cultivate their sense of belonging at Clark.

Donate to support the hub’s fundraising campaign.

Basic Needs Team

Caitlin Malvar, Basic Needs Navigator, is assisted by two Portland State University graduate students earning master’s degrees in social work, Meagan Montalto and Pearl Brown, who are the team’s Basic Needs Program Specialists.

Let’s not forget, Oso, the Basic Needs therapy dog. Oso and his owner, Caitlin, are a certified therapy dog team. Find him in the Basic Needs Hub, where he helps bring comfort and support to the campus community. Come say hi! When Oso isn’t working hard in the Basic Needs Hub, he loves to hike, go to the coast, chase squirrels, and snuggle with his black cat sister, Luna.

Malvar said, “I am grateful to be building the foundation of a very special space here at Clark College. I am motivated and overjoyed to see the Basic Needs Hub open and serving students. With the help of my team, I know we will make a huge impact on our community.”

All about the Basic Needs Hub

• Learn more about the Basic Needs team here.
• Learn more about the Hub here.
• Basic Needs resource inventory here
• Donate to the Basic Needs Hub here

Connect with the Basic Needs Hub

• Where: Gaiser Hall 216 (upstairs next to WES)
• When: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Email: basicneeds@clark.edu
• Phone: 360-992-2766

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

Clark College students, staff, and supporters gathered with the Clark College Foundation on November 6 at the Hilton in downtown Vancouver for a dinner event to celebrate the intersection between students, scholarships, and the community. The Clark College Foundation Annual Event: A Scholarship Story focused on the impacts of scholarships, not just in a student’s life, but how they ripple throughout the entire community.

Clark College mascot, Oswald, greeted guests and posed for photos. The evening ended with a rousing performance by White Lotus Dragon and Lion Dance Team.

The Foundation awarded more than $1.6 million in scholarships to Clark students during the 2023-2024 academic year, contributing to the over $9 million in financial aid grants and loans distributed to the students. Since the Foundation’s inception in 1973, it has supported Clark College with more than $85 million, including scholarships and grants for education and essential needs.

Cheree Nygard, chair of Clark College Foundation board of directors said, “Every scholarship represents an investment in the future, helping students who might not otherwise pursue their dreams. Whether it’s a single parent balancing work and school, a first-generation student blazing new trails, or someone retraining for a new career, scholarships make these stories of success possible. Education is the foundation of a thriving community, and at Clark, we are shaping the future of Southwest Washington, one student at a time.”

Nygaard continued, “I’m passionate about this work because I’ve seen firsthand how it changes lives. When we support education, we’re not just helping individuals — we’re empowering families, building stronger neighborhoods, and creating a ripple effect of positive change that touches us all.”

Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards said, “It is truly a privilege to be here tonight, as we come together to celebrate the transformative impact of scholarships on our students and our community. Scholarships are more than just financial aid—they represent hope, opportunity, and belief in the future. They give students the chance to pursue their dreams, and they remind us that when we unite in support of education, we can achieve incredible things. This sense of unity, this collective commitment to making a difference, is what sets Clark College apart.”

A Scholarship Story

First-generation college student and scholarship recipient Malina Siharath, pictured above, spoke from the podium about how receiving three scholarships from the Foundation is making her second year at Clark much less stressful than her first year.

She said, “In my first year of college, I paid all expenses out of pocket or with personal loans. Because of the Darby/Smith Scholarship, Fordham Scholarship, and the Clark Alumni Scholarship, I will graduate from Clark College with only that first year of debt.” She added, “When the community helps students through scholarships, they truly change students’ lives on their academic journeys.”

Siharath is pursuing a communications degree, with a goal of working in public relations and social media. She already is putting her skills to work as director of public relations of Clark’s Phi Theta Kappa honor society.

Clark College Foundation CEO Calen Ouellette, said, “What an incredible evening this has been! We’ve heard powerful stories of how scholarships transform lives—creating opportunities, igniting dreams, and opening doors that might otherwise stay closed. But the best part? This story doesn’t end tonight. In fact, it’s just beginning, and you’re all part of it.” He added, “If you’ve been inspired by the stories and would like to continue being a part of this ongoing narrative, I invite you to support Clark College scholarships. Every dollar you give helps write the next chapter in a student’s life.”

Thank you to the event sponsors

• Waste Connections
• U.S. Bank
• U.S. Bank Wealth Management
• Peterson & Associates
• Moss Adams
• The Columbian

Learn more:

Learn more about the Clark College Foundation here
Support future Clark College scholars – Donate here

Photos courtesy of the Clark College Foundation and photographer Emily Shirron.