On Friday, November 1, Clark College welcomed the community to its annual POWWOW as it hosted Educating for the Seventh Generation, a celebration of Indigenous cultures in Gaiser Student Center.

It was a family affair for all ages — from toddlers to teens, from young parents to senior grandparents and great-grandparents all reveling in the cherished community event. Vendors set up at tables to sell their crafts, including jewelry, art, and clothing.

First, Native American veterans presented the colors. Next, drummers sitting in a circle on the stage, pounded rhythms and chanted. That was the signal for the dancers. Wearing colorful regalia, dancers moved rhythmically along the floor as the bells on jingle dresses tinkling along with the drums.

Attendees were invited to participate in a round dance, and they jumped in, including Vancouver, Washington mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. A blanket dance was also performed, and the blanket was spread out to collect donations for the college’s Dreamcatcher Scholarship.

Dreamcatcher Scholarship

One highlight of the event is announcing the students who were selected to receive a Dreamcatcher Scholarships. The scholarship is designed to help current and future Clark College students who identify as Native American Indian, Alaska Native, Hawaiian Native or indigenous to the Americas. The Dreamcatcher Scholarship will be awarded from the fund in the name of Becky Archibald and Anna Schmasow for their endless commitment advocating the education for the Seventh Generation. 

The 2024 Dreamcatcher Scholarship recipients are:

• Michelle Britz
• Dabai Do Che’
• Kayla Morgan

Scholarship recipient Kayla Morgan said, “I’m from Aniak, Alaska. I proudly embrace my Yup’ik heritage.”

The Clark College student is in her first quarter of the dental hygiene program pursuing her goal to become a dental hygienist.

Morgan said, “The Dreamcatcher Scholarship allows me to pursue this path, providing crucial support as I advance in my education and work toward making a difference in dental health.”

Scholarship recipient Michelle Britz has Tlingit ancestry. She is pursuing an associate in arts degree at Clark College and plans to transfer to a university to earn a bachelor’s degree to pursue her career goal of occupational therapist. Britz is a single mother of three young sons. Her oldest son with disabilities has been an influencing factor in her direction of study.

She said, “It’s been amazing seeing him grow and learn from various therapies. I’m very interested in how the mind and body work together. I’ve also always enjoyed helping people. Working with people directly keeps me engaged.”

Britz added, “It feels like I have a mountain in front of me, but I am going to do my absolute best to provide a happy and full childhood for them. Luckily, I have an opportunity to gain a degree that would allow me to help people and still be available for my children in the after-school hours. This scholarship, along with FAFSA, would relieve me and my family of some of the financial stress that tuition presents.”

History of the POWWOW at Clark College

Since 2009, Clark College has celebrated Indigenous cultures during the first weekend of November with a powwow that includes music, dance, food, vendors, honoring of veterans, and the announcement of the Dreamcatcher Scholarship honoring our vision of Educating for the Seventh Generation.

Clark College coordinates and hosts this annual event in honor of Native American Heritage Month. “Educating for the Seventh Generation” references our responsibility to teach the future Seventh Generation to maintain our resources, traditions, and customs. It is the way of caring and preserving for the Seventh Generation, which is a true sustainable practice to consider the impacts of every decision for the next seven generations into the future.

Learn more about Clark’s POWWOW here.

Photos: Clark College/Carly Rae Zent

Melissa Williams, Policy Associate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges delivered the second Penguin Talks on October 24 at Vancouver Community Library.

Williams 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.

Speaking on the theme “Red, White, and Brown: Race in the United States,” Williams shared a detailed timeline focused on race and policy. She shared slide after slide illuminating laws, Supreme Court decisions, and policies that were integral in the formation of race in the U.S.

All of these policies and laws resulted in far-reaching consequences for those being oppressed. They determined whether a person was free, whether they could vote, where they could attend public school, who they could marry, what language they could speak, whether they were eligible for the G.I. Bill, whether they could get a home loan, live in a certain neighborhood, be protected by a union. The list is long and so very thorough.

One such policy was the Naturalization Act of 1790 which restricted citizenship to “any alien, being a free white person” who had resided in the U.S. for at least two years. Native Americans were considered “domestic foreigners” and were denied universal citizenship.

Other examples were Slave Codes and Black Codes, sets of laws that curtailed agency, expression, and limited recourse for Africans and African Americans—both enslaved and free—for more than 200 years from the 1600s to the 1800s.

Although Blacks were often the target, Native Americans, Chinese, Japanese—and many more people of color were targeted. In 1878, the Supreme Court ruled that Chinese individuals were ineligible for naturalized citizenship. Then the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act prohibited Chinese immigration for 10 years by an act of Congress. Ten years later, when the law was scheduled to expire, it was renewed and later made permanent. It was not repealed until 1943.

Native Americans were universally granted citizenship in 1924—and they were here first!

In 1942, shortly after the U.S. entered World War II, President Franklin Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, forcing the evacuation and internment of 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry living on the West Coast, most of whom were U.S. citizens or documented immigrants.

Williams said, “It is important to think about how policy, law, and traditions have shaped our country and our communities.”

Here are some highlights of Williams’ presentation.

Why talk about race?

• Even with all things equal, people of color nearly always experience worse outcomes than their White counterparts in every sociocultural and economic pillar.
• As a group, Black people specifically almost always experience worse outcomes than all others due to centuries of persistent anti-Black bias around the world.
• The fierce fight for equality and rights that people of color have waged in our nation has broadened access and inclusion for all people. The fight continues.
• Race has a profound impact on our lives.

What is racism?

• Racism is a system of race-based power and advantage.
• Systemic racism is the complex interaction of history, culture, policy, and social institutions that oppresses some groups to give an advantage to others.
• In the United States, the foundation of this system is white supremacy (the superiority of whiteness).

White supremacy

• The notion that White people and their ideas, views, values, communication styles, work styles, pursuits, approaches to relationship-building, appearances, and behaviors are the human standard to which all other people are compared.
• The term “white supremacy” is often associated with racist hate groups, but it more accurately describes the underpinning of U.S. culture and commonplace beliefs of people who grow up in a society.
• White supremacy can exist without malice.

What is race?

• Race as we think of it isn’t biological but is very real culturally, socially, politically, and economically.
• Race is an immensely powerful social construction.

At the conclusion of presenting the timeline, Williams shared a quote from Ibram X. Kendi from his book, How to Be an Antiracist:

“Americans have long been trained to see the deficiencies of people rather than policy. It’s a pretty easy mistake to make: People are in our faces. Policies are distant. We are particularly poor at seeing the policies lurking behind the struggles of people.”

Williams said, “Remember that folks have always been fighting for equity and justice.” She added, “It is important that we continue to grapple with our racialized history. We’re still grappling. We’re still making corrections.”

Some books and films Williams referenced:

• Ibram X. Kendi, Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America (2016)
• Ibram X. Kendi, How to Be an Antiracist (2019)
• Isabel Wilkerson, Caste: The Origin of our Discontents (2020)
• Documentary 13^th: From Slave to Criminal with One Amendment, a film by Ava DuVernay that explores the history of racial inequality in the United States and the mass incarceration of Black Americans (2016); streaming on Netflix
• The PBS documentary series: Race: The Power of an Illusion discusses the origins, beliefs, and consequences of what we call race (2003)

About Penguin Talks

Clark College and Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries are partnering to present Penguin Talks, a lunchtime speaker series offered at noon on three consecutive Thursdays on October 17, 24, and 31 in the Columbia Room at Vancouver Community Library, 901 C Street, Vancouver. The free, public series features local experts sharing their knowledge about critical topics impacting our community.

Next Penguin Talk – 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.

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

The Community Room in the Clark College Building at WSU Vancouver was the place to forge community and career connections on October 22. Students, alumni, community members, and local employers intersected at Clark’s Career Connect event, the first-ever Career Connect event the college has hosted at this campus.

Clark students pursuing Health Care and Bioscience programs connected with campus supports and with employers to discuss available internships, jobs, and other opportunities.

Looking around the room busy with people making connections, Alex Kison from Career Services said, “We got the word out to students!”

The event was organized by the Career Services team, with Kison leading the logistics. The Career Services team includes Kison, Emily Meoz, Trisha Haakonstad, Michael Caldwell, Aaron Campbell, and Niira Krupnick. Student employees Eli Knapp and Paul Dulaney also assisted with the event.

Connecting with Clark services

Advising Services, Career Services, and Student Success Coaches worked together to staff the event. Staff members assisted students who had the opportunity to ask questions and gain an understanding of academic pathways, career possibilities, and strategies for success.

These departments partnered with faculty to coordinate timing for the event that would make the most sense for student participation. The event was held in the community room on the main floor of the building that houses the majority of Clark’s Allied Health programs. Organizers scheduled a lunchtime event and offered free pizza, salad, and drinks.

Jordan Wilcox, program specialist for Clark’s upcoming surgical technology program, spoke to students about the new program and its prerequisites. The new program is scheduled to begin in Fall 2025.

Lana Strickland, Student Success Coach for students pursuing Healthcare and Biosciences was on hand to chat with students about scheduling time with a coach, improving study skills, and more.

Connecting with employers

Logan, a Clark biology student who plans to pursue a career in either microbiome research or zoology made his way around the various tables as he talked to employers. He stopped at the Multnomah County Health Department table to discuss potential career opportunities.

Ardon Health, which operates specialty pharmacies, is hiring pharmacy technicians. A Clark pharmacy tech student is currently doing an externship with them.

Kaiser Permanente is hiring medical assistants, nurses, and licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

Consumer Direct Care Network is hiring in-home caregivers.

Clark nursing student Kevin was the first to make connections with people around the room and turn in his Career Connect BINGO card, which includes activities related to career exploration and connections made at the event.

Over a two-hour period, valuable connections were made as Clark students stepped closer to their much-anticipated careers.

Next Career Connect Event

If you missed the October 22 event or are looking for more opportunities to connect, here is an upcoming opportunity:

Exploring Healthcare & Biosciences Careers – A Career Connect event

• When: Tuesday, November 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Location: Clark’s main campus in PUB 161 (Penguin Lounge)

“We want to meet students where they are already taking classes,” explained Kison. “The November 19^th event is more exploratory for students and community members who are interested in a healthcare and bioscience career but want to learn more and explore the different options. There will be healthcare and bioscience employers and industry professionals such as nurses, pharmacy technicians, and healthcare administrative specialists who will be available to speak to experience in their field.”

Employers who participated in the October 22 Career Connect:

• American Family Urgent Care
• Ardon Health (specialty pharmacy services)
• Consumer Direct Care Network (in-home caregivers)
• Department of Social and Health Services
• Kaiser Permanente
• Legacy Health
• Multnomah County Health Department
• PeaceHealth
• Providence
• The Vancouver Clinic

Clark connections:

• Allied Health programs
• Career Services
• Student Success Coaching
• Academic Advising
• Surgical Technology program (starting Fall 2025)

Make connections

• Advising Services: advising@clark.edu or (360) 992-2345 or GHL 108
• Career Services: careerservices@clark.edu or (360) 992-2902 or GHL 108
• Student Success Coaches: Schedule a session here

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

Vice President of Instruction Dr. Terry Brown kicked off the Penguin Talks series on October 17 at Vancouver Community Library.

Speaking on the theme “The Power of Education,” Dr. Brown shared stories about how education transformed his own family in only three generations. His grandparents and parents grew up in the segregated South where their opportunities were limited.

Dr. Brown’s grandparents did not graduate from high school. A generation later, his mother attended community college but did not graduate. Eventually, she returned to college and earned a bachelor’s degree. Her children took their education even further. Both Dr. Brown and his brother earned doctorate degrees.

For an hour, Dr. Brown spoke about how education transforms people, families, and communities. Here are some highlights.

The power of education

• “The power of education extends far beyond the individual being educated. It extends to our families, our communities, our nation.”
• “Education is a conduit for personal transformation. It provides a way for people to learn how to solve problems, to learn about the world and how to navigate it, to discover and develop their abilities and talents so that they can become who they are meant to be.”
• “Education is a catalyst for family and of community wellbeing. Education provides the means for people to expand their opportunities to care for their families. This impact can be intergenerational.”
• “Education is a cornerstone of economic vitality. An educated workforce dramatically raises the economic prospects of a family, a community, and a nation.”
• “Education is a call to civic engagement and services.”

Investing in diversity, equity, and inclusion

• “Attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion say something. We are seeing diversity, equity, and inclusion being questioned, and being under attack. The antonyms of DEI are homogeneity, inequity, and exclusion.”
• “The power of education is limited only by our willingness to invest and engage with it. Disinvestment of our schools and colleges says something. Not providing support to people trying to learn says something.”

Investing in lifelong education

• “If we want a society filled with highly developed human beings, a nation and society rich materially and culturally, then we need to invest our resources into each other’s lifelong education.”
• “I believe in the power of education. Education is both our inheritance from those who came before us and our legacy to those who come after us. It’s our responsibility to preserve and protect it.”

About Penguin Talks

Clark College and Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries are partnering to present Penguin Talks, a lunchtime speaker series offered at noon on two more consecutive Thursdays, October 24 and 31 in the Columbia Room at Vancouver Community Library, 901 C Street, Vancouver. The free, public series features local experts sharing their knowledge about critical topics impacting our community. 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.

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

On a misty, rainy morning in October, Josie Lesage’s Environmental Science 101 students gathered around her in the gravel parking lot at Sams Walker Recreation Area near Skamania Landing in the Columbia River Gorge, about 34 miles from the Clark College main campus.  

Lesage distributed gardening gloves and asked for volunteers to carry supplies to the work site. One student carried a bucket of garden spades. Others carried flats of Canada goldenrod. The native plants are grown by Clark students in Environmental Biology/Biology 101 classes at the Native Plant Center’s greenhouse. As they hiked along a gravel trail, Lesage stopped to point out a field that previous Clark students had seeded with native plants.

“Clark students have been involved with a habitat restoration project here for the past two years,” says Clark Professor Kathleen Perillo, Environmental Science and Biology, and co-director of the college’s Native Plant Center. Students gain hands-on experience learning about and working with native plants at the Native Plant Center and planting them at the U.S. Forest-managed restoration sites in the Columbia River Gorge. 

This restoration effort is a partnership with Clark College, the U.S. Forest Service, and The Center for Ecodynamic Restoration, a nonprofit organization based in Washougal. 

Restoring habitat

After Lesage demonstrated the preferred planting technique, the group stepped off the trail and passed a sign that read: “Please keep off. Revegetation in progress.” As they walked uphill to the planting area, they snaked around a rusty relic of farm equipment, its iron wheels encased with thick moss. This artifact and a crumbling foundation are the few remaining remnants of the farms operated by the Sams and Walker families on this land in another era.

But much more recently, this entire area—the field and adjacent wooded areas—was overgrown with non-native invasive species including reed canary grass, pasture grasses, and towering Himalayan blackberry plants. Now, the ground is covered in decomposing blackberry canes. Over the past two years, Clark students and other volunteers have begun planting non-invasive native plants. Fields are sewn with a mix of 33 different native species including Canada goldenrod, western yarrow, streambank lupine, bigleaf lupine, Douglas aster, milkweed, and more.

Reaching a broad hillside, the group stopped while Lesage offered final instructions. Setting down their umbrellas, backpacks, and clipboards, the students carried pots of Canada goldenrod all along the field, then knelt on the rain-soaked ground and got to work.

With so many hands working, the planting was soon completed. Although these plants are tiny now, they soon will mature and reseed with the help of the wind and birds. To demonstrate how quickly this transformation can occur, Lesage led her students over the hill and stood amid a thriving native landscape students had planted two years earlier.

Sams Walker Recreation Area

Sandy Haigh, a former Clark College biology professor, is the president of The Center for Ecodynamic Restoration (CEDR). She manages the restoration project at Sams Walker Recreation Area, which was established by the U.S. Forest Service in the 1990s. Working with the Forest Service, Clark College, and other partners, CEDR works to restore native habitats at the site. The project is funded with National Forest Foundation grants to CEDR.

Haigh defined ecological restoration as the process of restoring damaged or disturbed ecosystems to their natural state. CEDR works closely with Clark College Native Plant Center. Biology students propagate native plants in the campus greenhouse. Then professors Lesage and Perillo’s environmental science students plant the native species at Sams Walker and at St. Cloud, another project two miles west. This cooperative work introduces students to ecology, demonstrates the role of natives in ecological systems, and encourages them to enter related fields of work.

Perillo said, “We want our students to learn what a healthy Pacific Northwest ecosystem looks like and what it takes to restore it. We are teaching them about native plants and their role in native systems. But it goes beyond that to be able to show how a healthy system starts from the ground up and goes from soils to plants to pollinators on up to our apex predators. Everything in the system relies on everything else. That’s an important takeaway.”

She added, “We also want to empower students to see that they can be a part of worthwhile work in restoring systems and even take that knowledge back to their own backyards. It’s a way to tackle some of the nihilism that infuses many of our students in the face of climate change and the biodiversity crisis.” 

Becoming an Environmental Scientist

First-year Clark student Kylie Miller (pictured above), one of the students who participated in the restoration work at Sams Walker, is pursuing a career as an environmental scientist. “I chose this field because I grew up in Southern Oregon and constantly being in nature made me a proud tree hugger.”

Miller grew up hiking, kayaking, snowboarding, gardening “and doing just about anything outdoors I could.” In high school, she took environmental science classes and was inspired by her teacher to pursue a career in the field. She helped start an environmental activism group, worked toward restoring the campus greenhouse, and planned local cleanups.

She chose Clark College for its strong environmental science program and because she was recruited to play volleyball for the Penguins. Miller is pursuing an associate transfer degree in environmental science and plans to earn her bachelor’s degree at Oregon State University, University of Oregon or Washington State University.

Miller said the planting project at Sams Walker Recreation Area “was a great experience to get a taste of what it would really be like to work in the field. I know for a fact I want to be hands on and in the field making change and impacting the ecosystems I’m working with for the better.”

Learn more

• Call to action: Volunteer at the October 26 work party at Sams Walker Recreation Area. Click here to sign up.
• Visit the site:

  • Sams Walker Day Use/Picnic Area: Located 34 miles from Clark College and 12 miles east of Stevenson, Washington.
  • Directions: No street address. Take Washington State Highway 14 west into the Columbia River Gorge. Turn right at milepost 32.8 onto Skamania Landing Road. Drive ¼ mile, crossing the railroad tracks. Turn right into the parking lot.
  • Amenities: Trails, toilet, picnic table. NW Forest Pass required. Learn more here.

• Learn more:
  • Project partner The Center for Ecodynamic Restoration, Washougal.

  • Habitat restoration at the Sams Walker Recreation Site near Skamania Landing along Highway 14 in the Columbia River Gorge here.

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

Leading up to the mechatronics open house on October 30, the mechatronics labs at Clark College at Columbia Tech Center are busy with students engaged in hands-on learning—working with a variety of machine systems.

Learn more about this in-demand field that’s a good fit for people who love working with their hands, solving problems, and doing something different every day.

What is mechatronics?

Mechatronics is a growing technical field that integrates mechanical and electronic components managed by control systems. Mechatronics technicians troubleshoot, maintain, and repair mechanical equipment controlled by electrical, electronic, and computer systems. The systems are used in a wide variety of manufacturing and related technical applications, especially in high-tech industries.

Classes emphasize current concepts and technology by providing practical, hands-on experiences with the latest, industry-standard equipment. Coursework includes process control, instrumentation/automation, conveyor, palletizer, and robotics systems.

Instructor Alex Looney said mechatronics students learn valuable skills: analyzing and troubleshooting systems, and learning to safely work with higher voltages.

What can you do with a mechatronics degree?

Tina Jenkins, who heads the mechatronics program, said, “These skills are so versatile that they are used in many industries.”

Mechatronics graduates are equipped to work in manufacturing industries including semiconductor, fabrication, aerospace, and more. Clark’s graduates work at companies including Intel, Amazon, Columbia Machine, SEH America, nLight, Kyocera, TSMC (formerly Wafertech), Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI), and Georgia Pacific. The program’s faculty has built relationships with several local employers to ensure that the program stays current.

Who is a good fit for mechatronics?

Jenkins listed traits that are essential for this work: investigating, troubleshooting, and being curious about electronics and mechanical systems.

Instructor Ben Saunders said, “Mechatronics covers a broad range and is geared for people who want to be technicians, but perhaps not engineers. The classes are definitely hands-on.”

Instructor Alex Looney said, “If you see electronic equipment and wonder how it works, you’d be a good fit for mechatronics.”

CHIPS and Science Act: Why mechatronics jobs are in demand

High-tech manufacturing jobs—including mechatronics—are on the rise, thanks in large part to the $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act (CHIPS) of 2022. CHIPS is aimed at bolstering U.S. manufacturing of semiconductor chips, reestablishing the United States’ leadership in semiconductor manufacturing, shoring up global supply chains, and strengthening national and economic security.

The semiconductor was invented in the U.S. At one time, we produced nearly 40 percent of the world’s chips, but U.S. production dropped to only about 10 percent of global supply. The CHIPS and Science Act aimed to change that by investing nearly $53 billion in U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, research and development, and workforce.

Washington is one of the top states for semiconductor manufacturing. Here in the Southwest Washington region, our economy has benefited for decades from the legacy presence of microchip and integrated circuit makers, the international leader in silicon wafer growing and the largest supplier of high-performance semiconductor lasers.

Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Washington), an author of the CHIPS and Science Act, reported that after just one year, there were 2,880 new high-wage semiconductor manufacturing jobs in the Pacific Northwest—including in Camas in Clark County.

In August 2024, two years after CHIPS was signed, the Biden-Harris administration celebrated historic achievements in bringing semiconductor supply chains home to the U.S. and creating family-wage jobs.

What students say about the program

Zak, a maintenance technician at SEH, said, “Clark’s program will help me go further in my career.”

Melissa previously earned a mechanical engineering degree and worked in the field for five years, but realized she wanted to make a change. “I wanted hands-on work where I would put math and theory into practice.” She said Clark’s hands-on mechatronics program has been a good fit.  

Austin had taken a year of engineering classes at Clark when an advisor told him about the mechatronics program. He decided he wanted to work in manufacturing and thought mechatronics would be a better fit for him—and it has been. He said, “Clark is a good umbrella program” for graduates to step into jobs in various manufacturing industries.

Brayson was an operator at Analog Devices, Inc (ADI), a company that manufactures integrated circuits used in electronics. He said, “I was watching the technicians working and realized I wanted to expand my knowledge and become a technician.” As soon as he registered for the mechatronics program at Clark, his employer promoted him to technician.

Seth also works at ADI, and he enrolled in Clark’s mechatronics program to give him the skills he needs to be transferred to Analog’s maintenance program.

Kyle is a machinist at Sigma Design, a position he’s held for four years. He said he enrolled in the mechatronics program because “I wanted to learn how to build the systems.” With automation happening more frequently across industries, he says that earning a mechatronics degree and learning these skills will increase his job security.

Shawn, a maintenance technician diagnosed with ADHD, enrolled in the program “to grow my skills and my career.” He listed the reasons why mechatronics is a good fit for him: “The variety of the work, getting to work with my hands, troubleshooting and coming up with solutions, using my brain. And no monotony.”

After Ryker completes his Associate in Applied Technology (AAT) degree at Clark, he plans to transfer to a four-year college and earn a bachelor’s degree in mechatronics. His eventual goal is to work in aerospace, perhaps at Lockheed Martin. He said, “Clark’s program lays out the fundamentals: pneumatics, hydraulics, electrical. It’s a good basis to build on.”

Mechatronics open house

Who: Anyone interested in a career in mechatronics. High school students are encouraged to attend and explore this career option.

When: Wednesday, October 30, 5:00–7:00 p.m.

Where: Clark College Columbia Tech Center, 18700 East Mill Plain Boulevard, Room 109, Vancouver, WA

What will happen

• Learn about the mechatronics industry.
• Get a hands-on tour of the Clark College mechatronics facility.
• See equipment, meet instructors, and ask questions.

Mechatronics at Clark College

• Two-year program
• A small cohort of students that takes all classes together
• Students who complete the program receive an Associate of Applied Technology degree in Mechanical and Instrumentation Automation.
• Learn more here.

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

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

Welcome Week kicked off on Monday, September 23, the first day of the fall term and the 2024-25 academic year. Parking lots were crowded as thousands of students returned to classrooms and labs across the main campus, at the Clark College building at Washington State University Vancouver, and Clark College Columbia Tech Center.

Warm, dry weather invited students to gather outside to sit on benches and the grass or walk the paths around campus. A brand-new reader board displayed a welcome message in multiple languages. The campus has never looked better after the grounds crew’s power washing, mowing, and trimming work over the summer. Leaves on some deciduous trees are already turning a lovely, burnished color as the Penguin Nation steps into fall term 2024.

As on every first day, students stopped to peruse their phones, campus directory, and maps all over campus, and had questions: Where is this class? Where is this building? Where do I get my free bus pass? Where is the bookstore? Can someone help me?

The strategically located Welcome tables were there to help. Brand-new student ambassadors and student government representatives, together with staff and faculty volunteers, answered students’ questions, helped them find their classes, and distributed maps, snacks, and resource information. The tabling to assist students would not have been possible without the many staff and faculty volunteering their time to help Clark students, thanks to the coordination of Sarah Gruhler and the Student Life team. Students could find resources and campus activities on social media, too, with the new TikTok account posting about important services available across campus.

Other Welcome Week activities included first day of school pictures and the Counseling & Health Center open house. The fall athletics season has already started with volleyball, soccer, and cross country all having events this week.

Around campus, students congregated in their favorite gathering spots to catch up with friends and classmates. Cannell Library was a popular gathering place for students to sit with fellow students and work on their laptops.

Inside Gaiser Hall, students gathered in the food court to meet friends and get nourishment before their next class. Several stood in line at the retail bakery to try two specialty drinks: Japanese iced coffee and saffron latte. Some students bought wraps and salads at the grab-and-go. In the coming weeks, as culinary classes find their groove and move into full-production mode, there will be more food options, when the student restaurant reopens on October 1 and the student kiosk reopens on October 15.

For more information on campus activities, keep an eye on Clark’s events calendar: https://www.clark.edu/about/governance/calendars/events.php or follow us on Clark’s social media channels: https://www.clark.edu/campus-life/social-media.php.

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley
View more photos from the first week of classes on our Flickr page: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBK5Nf

Clark College faculty and staff gathered on September 16 to kick off the 2024-2025 academic year during Opening Day festivities at O’Connell Sports Center.

It was a homecoming of sorts. People greeted each other as they lined up at tables laden with gallons of coffee and hundreds of bagels for a breakfast hosted by iQ Credit Union. Staff and faculty gathered in small groups all over the gym to reconnect and catch up on their summer activities. Dozens got a new staff photo taken by Jenny Shadley from Communications and Marketing. During the celebration, several employees were honored with awards. Read more about the employee awards: https://news.clark.edu/2024/09/2024-employee-awards/

Welcome by Dr. Edwards

Dr. Edwards greeted faculty and staff in a message focused on the power of unity, with everyone working together and using the college’s Equity-Centered Strategic Plan as our roadmap. Next, a new Strategic Plan video was screened.

Speaking about unity, Dr. Edwards quoted Thomas Paine, an 18th-century political writer: “It’s not in numbers, but in unity, that our great strength lies.”

Following the theme of “unity,” Oswald, our beloved Penguin mascot, starred in a video that showed Degrundra “Dee” Harris from ODEI leading him around campus in search of components to build a special Opening Day surprise gift. (View the video: https://youtu.be/Ok2Q0T63LUA) The video concluded with real-life Oswald entering the gym with an ASCC leader and bearing his special gift. With an extra power boost from the clapping and cheering from the audience, Oswald pushed the button and launched a wall of confetti into the audience, who shrieked appreciatively.

Dr. Edwards thanked the Clark College Foundation for their partnership. Each year, the foundation awards $1.3 million in scholarships, special awards, and financial support to hundreds of our students, and contributes an average of $3.5 million annually to the college for programs and capital support.

She said, “This collaboration has been a pivotal component of our success over the last 50 years. Please join me in giving another heartfelt thank you to our partners at the Clark College Foundation.”

Dr. Edwards highlighted a dozen projects and programs including:

• An AI-powered chatbot will be added to our website to enhance user experience.
• Our new Associate of Applied Technology (AAT) degree in Surgical Technology has been approved.
• Our first building at Boschma Farms is nearly completed. General education classes will begin in Spring 2025. Our Advanced Manufacturing program is awaiting NWCUU approval.
• We currently have $13 million in grants and allocations including a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation to close opportunity gaps by providing cohort-based support and academic preparation program, faculty mentoring, and scholarships to 48 students pursuing associate degrees in Engineering or Computer Science.
• We have hired Caitlin Malvar as our Basic Needs Navigator, a new role supported by the state to provide a single point of contact for students seeking essential resources.
• We are preparing for accreditation for 2024-2025 under the leadership of Dr. Cecelia Martin.
• And much more!

ASCC President Gurraj Singh Dhami, pictured above, introduced this academic year’s student leaders. Then he spoke about his focus: To “ensure that every student has access to the resources and support they need to succeed. Each of us has unique obstacles, and it’s vital that we create an environment where every student feels supported, whether through financial aid, mental health resources, or extracurricular involvement. We all need that sense of community, and I’m committed to making sure no one feels left behind.”

Board of Trustees Chair Cristhian Canseco Juarez spoke about unity throughout the Clark community: the board of trustees, Dr. Edwards, Clark College Foundation, and faculty and staff across campus. He closed by saying, “Imagine what impact we can make this academic year as we work together in unity on behalf of our students and our college community. I am honored to work with you and to be part of Penguin Nation.”

Dr. Edwards closed Opening Day by saying: “Next week, we will welcome a new cohort of students who have put their trust in Clark College—and all of us collectively—to help them step onto a path toward success in their academic goals, their careers, and in life. I thank each of you for being a part of the Clark team doing this important work on behalf of our students. We have our equity-centered Strategic Plan as our road map in place. We have our team of good people in place. Now it’s time for us to focus on finding ways to work together—in Unity.”

Fall Faculty Focus

Opening Day is part of a multi-day orientation and training for faculty organized by the Clark College Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) to inspire, inform, and engage faculty to build community, learn, and grow in their teaching.

Fall Faculty Focus on September 17 welcomed faculty back for the new academic year. The theme was “Me, Myself, and AI.” The keynote speaker was Wilson Nitunga, pictured above, a professor of Business and Marketing at Portland Community College (PCC) who works with PCC’s Center of Artificial Intelligence and Cultural Computing. He shared his academic journey from refugee to at-risk student to faculty member. Then he shared instructional and relational strategies to develop the best possible support system for students, and innovative ways to use AI for enhanced teaching and learning.

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley and Susan Parrish
More photos from Opening Day can be viewed on Flickr: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBHKt8

Clark College employees gathered on September 16 to kick off the 2024-25 academic year during Opening Day festivities at O’Connell Sports Center. During the event, the following faculty and staff members were recognized. Congratulations to all the recipients! Read more about Opening Day: https://news.clark.edu/2024/09/opening-day-2024/

Exceptional Faculty Awards | Exceptional Classified Staff Awards | Exceptional Administrative-Exempt Award | Lora Whitfield Social Equity Award | Years of Service Awards

Exceptional Faculty Award recipients

Clark College Exceptional Faculty Award is one of the highest honors that the college bestows. While anyone at the college can nominate a faculty member for this award, most nominations come from students to recognize professors who truly made a difference in their lives.  

Halina Brant-Zawadzki, Nursing 

Dr. Halina Brant-Zawadzki (Dr. B-Z) has taught Nursing at Clark College since January 2022. She has more than 18 years of experience in nursing education from various nursing schools in the Portland-Vancouver metro area, including being tenured faculty at the University of Portland’s School of Nursing. She teaches in the classroom, in the acute care setting, and in the simulation lab. 

Dr. Brant-Zawadzki holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Lewis and Clark College, both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Portland, and a Ph.D. in Nursing Science from the University of Washington. Her area of scholarship focuses on trauma-responsive education, stress management, and coping strategies in undergraduate nursing students. 

Her student nominator wrote: “Dr. Brant-Zawadzki is the definition of ‘I’m here to help.’ She was attentive to each student and made everyone feel valid, supported, and wanted. She takes every question into careful consideration and tries different approaches for different learning styles. Her lectures and notes had videos, readings, demonstrations, and more to make sure every learner was addressed in their style.” 

Sarah Luther, Mathematics 

Sarah Luther earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and a minor in Mathematics and a Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education from Lewis and Clark College. She earned her Master of Science in Mathematics from Texas A&M University. Luther previously was a middle-school math teacher and a mathematics editor and textbook problem writer. She taught math at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon before she started teaching at Clark College 11 years ago.  

Luther serves on the college’s Sigma Scholarship Committee and a tenure committee. She also is a member of Clark’s Math Activities Committee that organizes events to give students opportunities to interact with math outside the classroom. These include origami events, game nights emphasizing strategy and logic, and an event exploring the Pythagorean Theorem. 

Her student nominator wrote: “Math is not at all my strength and when I first began Math 105, I was absolutely terrified. These feelings quickly vanished when I met with Professor Luther and realized I didn’t have to feel embarrassed to ask for help. She is not only very easy to understand, but also such an empathetic and understanding person who knows exactly how to work with students. It’s clear that she truly cares about the success of her students and I’m so incredibly grateful for her help this quarter.” 

Sarah Blanchette, Human Services 

Sarah Blanchette received an Associate of Arts in Social Sciences with an emphasis in Social Services from College of the Redwoods, a community college in Eureka, California, and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at University of California Davis. 

Next Sarah worked in social and human services leadership and administration for 25 years: 13 years at the Department of Social and Health Services and 7 years at Developmental Disabilities Administration. Working with youth, families, aging adults, and individuals with developmental disabilities led her to complete her master’s degree in Social Work at Eastern Washington University, which was co-located at Clark at the time. 

Her master’s studies led Sarah to Clark College in 2019 to teach the next generation of human service workers through the BASHS and ACED programs.  

Sarah said, “Teaching deepened my life. I have been inspired by my students’ resilience and by their passion for making the world a better place.” 

Her student nominator wrote: “Sarah gives me hope for the future of my field. She teaches us alternative ways to view and use old ideas so we can apply conventional practices in a contemporary way that’s more trauma informed, culturally adaptable, and influenced by acknowledgement of the unique strengths and needs of various populations. She’s cultivating the generation of counselors that the world needs, and it’s both inspiring and motivating as an aspiring researcher trying to change the way helpers help for the better.” 

Tanya Diaz-Kozlowski, Women’s Studies  

Dr. Tanya Diaz-Kozlowski (she/her/ella) is a meditator, writer, and teacher who has taught Women’s Studies courses at Clark College since Fall 2020. She centers queer and BIPOC narratives in all courses to explore knowledge, subjectivity, and power with students as co-partners in learning, encouraging students to forge connections rooted in awareness, accountability, and compassion rather than reactivity, stereotypes, and dis/mis information.  

Her contributions at Clark include mentoring queer and BIPOC students, serving on multiple hiring committees, speaking at the Queer Student Luncheon, serving as chair of a tenure committee, serving on the Instructional Planning Committee, and co-creating community and connection gatherings for Clark College faculty and staff. 

Dr. Diaz-Kozlowski holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from University of Wisconsin-Parkside, a Master of Science in Higher Education from Eastern Illinois University, and a doctorate degree in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership with a focus in social and cultural foundations from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. In addition to her tenure at Clark, she has worked at the Uniting Pride Center of Champaign County and has taught at Illinois State University and The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. 

Her student nominator wrote: “Race, gender, and sexuality all intersect with our identities. This is what we were taught in Women’s Studies and how Dr. Diaz-Kozlowski treats us reflects exactly what we learn. They respect pronouns and queer individuals. Also, they advocate for BIPOC and queer authors, which respects students’ identities as they may be relatable to us.” 

Rebecca Engel, American Sign Language 

Rebecca Engel earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Oregon State University and a Master of Education degree in Deaf Education from Western Oregon University. Before coming to Clark College, she taught middle school at Washington School for the Deaf. She has been teaching at Clark since 2006 and was granted tenure in 2020.  

At Clark she teaches all levels of American Sign Language as well as Deaf Culture courses. She serves on Clark’s Curriculum committee, is ASL Club advisor, and actively participates in Teaching and Learning Center communities.  

She also serves on CTE advisory boards for Evergreen and Vancouver school districts. She also serves on the Language Access advisory committee for OSPI. 

Her student nominator wrote: “I am one of many students who have been touched by Becky’s contagious light and electric energy. She has supported me in my two years as an ASL student at Clark College and has always encouraged me to chase my dreams of becoming an ASL interpreter. Her willingness to teach me and her excitement toward my journey is a huge part of the reason why I am here today. She has shared resources with me, given valuable feedback that has grown my ASL skills, and reminded me why my dreams matter.” 

“As a Deaf woman, Becky understands the value of respecting differences and has encouraged others to do so as well. Many times, we have discussed the importance of Deaf Culture as well as taking the time to learn from other people’s experiences. Becky is always willing to help and wants all of her students to feel supported in her classroom. She makes me feel like I am important and so are my opinions.” 

Catherine Johnston, English as a Second Language 

Volunteering with a literacy organization prompted Catherine Johnston to begin a career in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Fifteen minutes into her initial tutoring session with a pre-literate speaker of Arabic, she decided to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at University of San Francisco. She previously earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English at DePaul University. 

Since 1997, she has enjoyed teaching children and adults in language schools and universities, training teachers in a training certificate program, and writing and editing educational materials for several publishers. She has worked in educational settings in Hong Kong, Mexico, and various parts of the United States. She began teaching full time at Clark College in 2007. 

Catherine said it is a privilege and a pleasure to have a role in the cultural adjustment process of her immigrant and refugee students, some of whom came here by choice and some of whom came here by circumstance. 

She said, “Whether students are accomplished professionals, new to formal education, or somewhere in between, I appreciate the opportunity to help my ESL learners realize their goals. Serving alongside my Transitional Studies staff and faculty colleagues is a joy.” 

Her student nominator wrote: “In the realm of education, there are teachers who simply impart knowledge, and then there are those rare individuals who leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of their students. Catherine Johnston, without a doubt, falls into the latter category. As an older student representing our diverse class, she is the best teacher I have encountered who helped me to believe in myself and have the courage to start a new life here in the United States, where English is not my first language.” 

Exceptional Classified Staff Awards 

Andra Spencer, Office of Diversity Equity & Inclusion 

Her nominator wrote: “Andra has been a part of ODEI for a little over a year, and the positive impact of her work and dedication were immediately felt. Andra’s passion for equity and education is contagious. She dove into creating a PPI training on recognizing and disrupting antisemitism this summer and introduced many to a body of knowledge previously undiscussed at the college.” 

Teresa Haye, Bachelor of Applied Science Teacher Education (BASTE) 

Her nominator wrote: “Terry has been essential to the success of this program, which grew from 5 students in the first year to 20 students in the second year. Her passion for student success, removing barriers, and prioritizing tasks that allow for those dynamics are all part of her superpowers.” 

Exceptional Administrative-Exempt Award

Monica Knowles, Bookstore 

Her nominator wrote: “They are a productive leader; their work performance is exemplary. This is due partly to the fact that they have created well thought out procedures for the operation of the Bookstore. More importantly, they make sure that team members understand the importance of their roles in the big picture and provide the proper training for team members to perform their roles well. They foster an encouraging environment in which staff members want to collaborate and give their best for the Bookstore.”    

Lora Whitfield Social Equity Award 

Ciera Jones, Athletics 

Lora Whitfield was an Early Childhood Education professor at Clark College who cared deeply about this community. She was committed to the success of her fellow employees and the students she served. As a tenured professor, she promoted equity and inclusion, creating a culture of community for all. 

Clark’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion reviews the nominations for this award and makes a recommendation based on a Clark employee’s demonstrated and sustained commitment to advancing equity. The recipient receives $1,000 and a plaque in honor of Lora Whitfield.  

Her student nominator wrote: “Coach Ciera preaches equity and opportunity—and she stands by it. From allowing members onto her team who lack a background in the sport due to systemic failures, to promoting mental health resources and seeking ways to give back to the community, Ciera acts on her beliefs. She continuously goes above and beyond to ensure her team is involved on the field, in the school, and in the world around them. She is a shining example of leadership.” 

“Coach Ciera demonstrates her leadership on the field, and in her office. When you speak with her, you can sense her respect for others. As a Deaf player on her team, I never felt lesser or othered by her. I was given numerous opportunities to grow in the sport, challenge my own obstacles, and better my mind and body. Her leadership instilled confidence in me that I carry to the classroom, and Ciera has reached out to me about partnering with the ASL Club to provide softball camps to the local Deaf community, furthering this inclusion and equity.” 

Years of Service Awards  

Brad Avakian, vice president of Human Resources, presented the years of service awards to employees with 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of service. Thanks to an anonymous donor through the Foundation, all years of service awards also come with monetary compensation based on the number of years served. 

5 years 

• Human Resources: Alicia Dingivan 
• Instruction: Aaron Ahn, Andrea Belleisl, Sandra Bennett, Opinderjit Bhella, Sarah Blanchette, Chris Cerone, Kristin Christophersen, Joanne Costello, Kymber Croft-Miller, Jennifer Denrow, Cassia Gammill, Hernan Garzon, Katherine Goforth, Jesse Kysar, Nicholas Luisi, Erin Lynch, Olga Lyubar, Kathryn Matsuura, Stacie Murdoch, Kenneth Murr, Valenti Pischanskaya- Cayanan, Brian Shannon, Richa Sharma, Tabitha Stokes, Christopher Thompson, Christina Wallace 
• Operations: Courtney Braddock, Laurie Mitchell, Darcie Daniel 
• Student Affairs: Michael Aguirre, Kelsey Gramm, Amanda Mabrey 
• Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: Alyssa Montminy 
• Foundation: Andy Palmquist, Angela Torretta 

10 YEARS 

• Instruction: Christopher Chaffin, Lindsay Christopher, Amy Ellis, Jay Fancher, Caron Ford, Jaron Gardiner, Rebecca Herman, Alec Josephson, Sergey Kachenkov, Darcy Kennedy, Manda Levie, Donald Ludwig, Brian McVay, James Powers, Cathy Reynolds, Jeffrey Snyder, Aubrey Tobias, Kurtis Trimbo, Michelle Vincent, Tiffani Young, Shelly Williams 
• Operations: Meghan Moss, Stacy Watne 
• Student Affairs: Marianne Luther, Patricia Marley, Kandice Ripplinger, Joanne Vaughn 

15 YEARS  

• Instruction: Linda Appert, William Athens, Jack Bohl, Loni Bramson, Amanda Brown, Erin Burrows, Amanda Crochet, Alison Dolder, Wendy Edgar, Nicole Ekle, Rebecca Engel, Heidi Fay, Cynthia Foreman, Michael Guerra, Marilyn Hale, Shanda Haluapo, John Jarvie, James Jensen, Divya Kashyap, Donna Marshall, Angelica Quinn, Julie Saiturn, Stephen Shepherd, Erin Staples 
• Operations: Kay Martinez 
• Student Affairs: Cindy Aplin, Margaret Estes 

20 YEARS  

• Instruction: David Caldwell, Isaac Erskine, Gothard Grey, Izad Khormaee, John Kuhn, Gayle Lee, Kanchan Mathur, Christopher Milner, John Mitchel, April Mixon        

25 YEARS  

• Human Resources: Thao Schmidt 
• Instruction: Mark Bolke, Ray Cooper, Jennifer Dean, Sara Gallow, Kathleen Perillo 
• Operations: Billie Garner, Damon Grady, Monica Knowles, Sabra Sand 
• Foundation: Shirley Schwartz  

30 YEARS 

• Instruction: Kristine Barker, Kayoko Barnhill, Aaron Bingham, Judy Emenegger, Donald Gonser, Travis Kibota, Gail Robinson 
• Student Affairs: Kimberly Bower 
• Foundation: Karen Hagen  

35 YEARS  

• Instruction: Mike Arnold 
• Operations: Lisa Hasart 

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley
More photos from Opening Day can be found on Flickr: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBHKt8