Teams of engineering students stood outside the STEM Building engrossed in testing the transforming catapults they had designed and built. How many foam balls would their catapult successfully throw into the target buckets? Could their catapult quickly transform from stationary to mobile, and would it be fast enough to cross the finish line before the clock ran out?
Every term, Engineering professors Tina Barsotti and Carol Hsu pose a real-world problem to their students and instruct them to design and build an object that solves the problem. Teams of students work together. At the end of each term, teams present their prototype to their peers, explaining their process and materials used. Finally, teams test their designs.
The spring 2024 challenge: Design and build a transforming catapult with two stages: stationary and moveable.
Requirements:
The catapult must pass under a twelve-inch bridge and shoot foam balls into target buckets placed at various distances.
The catapult must remain stationary while shooting.
It must transform into a moveable form before and after shooting the balls.
A student may not push the catapult across the finish line.
Timed test: Five minutes maximum was allowed for their mobile design to move from the starting line to the testing center, to transform to a stationary catapult, then to propel foam balls at the target, to transform back into moveable form, and finally to cross the finish line.
Materials: Student teams used various materials to build their catapult. Popular choices included radio control cars, lightweight wood, balsa craft sticks, cardboard, plastic cups, springs, string, rubber bands, and wheels and axles from a toy car. Some teams used high-tech carbon fiber, PET-CF, and TPU 3D printing filament to create parts of their catapult vehicle. Although all catapults shared some characteristics, such as wheels, a base, a long arm, and a bucket, each catapult looked different from the others.
Most teams were outside the STEM Building awaiting their turn to test their project. But not all teams had completed building their design. Team Proto A and a few other teams who were finishing their catapults worked at tables in the collaboratorium. Students wielded drills, glue guns, duct tape, and string to put the finishing touches on their designs before taking them outside to test them in front of their professors and their peers.
Each team took a turn running their catapult transformer through the course while other teams watched, cheered, and offered encouragement. Now was the moment of truth for Team Proto T and its “Squirrel Defeater” transforming catapult. It completed the tasks and crossed the finish line with 12 seconds to spare.
Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish
Clark College’s 88th Commencement
Clark College honored its 88th graduating class at the 2024 Clark College Commencement ceremony on Thursday evening, June 20, at theRV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater.Over 640 graduates and their guests gathered with college faculty and staff to celebrate their achievements. This auspicious ceremony honored students graduating with their bachelor’s or associate degrees, and those earning certificates, high school diplomas, and/or GED completion.
2024 Commencement Highlights
Clark College conferred a total of 1,783 degrees and certificates on the next generation of our community’s workers, leaders, and scholars. This translates to the following:
President Dr. Karin Edwards, center with some of the Dental Hygiene BAS graduates.
2024 Degrees and Certificatesconferred included the:
Bachelor of Applied Science degree;
Associate in Arts degree;
Associate in Fine Arts degree;
Associate in Science degree;
Associate in Applied Science degree;
Associate in Applied Technology degree;
Certificate of Proficiency;
Certificate of Achievement;
Certificate of Completion;
High School Diploma; and
General Educational Development (GED) Completion
Student Speaker Ziyad El Amrani gives gets the graduates hyped up at commmencement.
Speakers at the 2024 Commencement included:
Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards
Clark College Board of Trustee President Cristhian Canseco Juarez, in both English and Spanish
Graduating Student Ziyad El Amrani, Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Management degree
CCAHE Faculty Union President and Professor of Communication Studies Suzanne Southerland
Clark President Dr. Karin Edwards touted recent Clark successes: enrollment has increased 10%, more in-person classes are being offered, student engagement has increased, and its new campus at Boschma Farms in Ridgefield is nearing completion.
After sharing the inspiring stories of three graduating students, Dr. Edwards said, “These are just three examples of the transformational power of a community college education. Graduates, whatever path your future takes you, the return on your investment is invaluable. You believed in yourself and invested in bettering yourself. The result is that everyone benefits. You, your family, your community, and the world benefit by having your well-educated mind at work. We congratulate and applaud you for your dedication, your hard work, and your sacrifice.”
Trustee Cristhian Canseco Juarez (pictured above) followed with these words, “What an accomplishment! Through your perseverance and hard work, you did it! Congratulations!” He added, “Many of you, like me, are the first person in your family to graduate from college. Did you know that about 45% of Clark students are the first in their family to attend college? You have sacrificed to make a difference for your family and your future… Penguins Class of 2024, tonight you begin an exciting new journey. Pursue your dreams, reach toward your goals—and make the world a better place. All of Penguin Nation believes in you.”
Transformed Lives
Before the commencement ceremony, students waiting outside the amphitheater shared their stories that spoke to the transformational power of education.
Clark Libraries employees earn degrees. Amanda Brown (pictured above third from the left in white robe), Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Management (BASAM): Brown is the program manager in Clark Libraries. She realized she would have more opportunities with a bachelor’s degree, so she worked full time while attending Clark full time and achieved her goal. Amanda stands with fellow Clark graduates Courtney Cichosz, a former Clark Libraries student employee, and current Clark Libraries employees Shay Walter and Bridgit Callaway.
Running Start students Lemman Gurre (DTA Biology & transferring to WSUV) and Aalaa Hassan (Biochemical Engineering & transferring to UW) and Nevaeh Fang (AA DTA & undecided)
A trio of Running Start studentsLemman Gurre, Aalaa Hassan, and Nevaeh Fangearned direct transfer associate degrees and are headed to University of Washington and Washington State University Vancouver to pursue bachelor’s degrees. Gurre plans to become a pharmacist; Hassan, a biomedical engineer. Fang is undecided.
Left to right: Slade Samson Griffith and Micah Turner earned DTA degrees. Griffith is first gen student adopted from Haiti-joined US Navy. Turner undecided.
Slade Samson Griffith, a first-generation college graduate who was adopted from Haiti, earned a direct transfer associate degree. He has joined the U.S. Navy and plans to continue his education after he has completed his military service.
Rachel Kreitel, (pictured above)had not completed high school, but 20 years later, she enrolled at Clark and earned her GED and then an associate degree in Nursing. She realized she wanted to pursue a career in human resources, so returned to Clark again to earn a Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Management.
Life got in the way for Elizabeth Rivera, and she hadn’t had an opportunity to graduate from high school.She has four children, ages 6 to 18, and has worked full time at an assembly job for 16 years. Rivera wants to move into a leadership position, so she enrolled in Clark’s Transitional Studies high school plus program full time while working 12-hour shifts Friday, Saturday and Sunday—and caring for her family. Now she plans to pursue a project management position and is considering returning to Clark to earn an associate’s degree.
The following were recognized during commencement
2024 Community College Presidents’ Award in honor of Val Ogden was received by Graduate Simon Kirpa (pictured above). This annual scholarship is awarded to a Clark College graduate who is transferring to Washington State University Vancouver. The recipient must demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to community service, and academic achievement.
Kirpa joined the U.S. Army and served as a medic in Iraq, where he demonstrated his leadership skills and his ability to put patients at ease. He chose to continue pursuing medicine after completing his military service and applied to Clark’s nursing program. He completed this challenging program while balancing being a husband and father, caring for his mother, and volunteering weekly at his church to offer free meals to those in need. Despite his responsibilities, he consistently completed high-caliber work in his classes, performed his duties with diligence, and provided excellent care in hospital settings. At WSU-Vancouver, Kirpa will study to become an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner and specialize in family medicine.
Thanks to the generosity of Clark College Foundation, the Presidential Scholarship taskforce selected two other recipients of a $1,000 scholarship each:
Alexandra Rose, associate of arts
Alita Sundberg
Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society for two-year colleges selected the following graduating students for its All-Washington Academic Team, based on academic excellence and community service:
Addison Johnson, direct transfer associate degree in Bioengineering
Lisa Segretto, direct transfer associate degree in Psychology
Ethan Mahan, associate in applied technology degree in Medical Assisting; additional certification in Phlebotomy
Faculty and Staff Awards were also recognized during commencement
2024 Exceptional Faculty Award recipients:
Halina Brant-Zawadzki, Nursing
Sarah Luther, Mathematics
Sarah Blanchette, Human Services
Tanya Diaz-Kozlowski, Women’s Studies
Rebecca Engel, American Sign Language
Catherine Johnston, English as a Second Language
2024 Exceptional Classified Staff Award recipients:
Cheryl Davenport, Collections and Specialist, Library
Jennifer Lea, Program Specialist, Business department
2024 Exceptional Administrative Exempt Award recipient:
Vanessa Watkins, Director of Entry Services
2024 Lora Whitfield Social Equity Award:
Ezekial Wells, Program Specialist 3, Workforce Education Services
Clark College Diversity Center, International Programs, and Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education program celebrated their graduating students at ceremonies on Thursday, June 13.
Diversity Center Graduation Ceremony and Reception
Graduates with Board of Trustees Chair Cristhian Canseco Juárez, Vice Chair Denise Gideon, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Vanessa Neal, and President Dr. Karin Edwards.
More than a dozen graduates were celebrated at the Diversity Center graduation reception. Systemically non-dominant graduating students (students of color, queer students, and students with disabilities) of Clark College and their families or support network participated in the college’s annual Diversity Center graduation reception to honor the hard work of graduates and uplift the support provided by family and communities.
The program presenters were:
Welcome: Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards
Opening remarks: Alum Kodi Findlay
Meaning of the stoles: Alyssa Montminy, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Keynote speaker: Eduardo Javier Ramirez-Guzman, Spanish Club President who is graduating on June 20
Flower ceremony: Rosalba Pitkin, Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Closing remarks: Vanessa Neal, Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Left to right: Alum Kodi Findlay and Eduardo Javier Ramirez-Guzman, Spanish Club President spoke at the reception.
Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Vanessa Neal, told graduates: “In our vision as a college one of the key components is being a beacon of hope, and it is you and your determination which truly serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, not only for yourselves and families but also future generations.”
Jody Shulnak, associate director of International Programs, Maggie Li, International admissions manager, and Kristen Fowler, international programs coordinator, with some of the International programs graduates.
Clark College International Programs students, faculty, and staff gathered to celebrate the graduation of 16 students representing 12 countries. Four of the graduating students have earned bachelor’s degrees. The celebration also recognized students completing the Intensive English Language Program, scholarship recipients, students who engaged in Optional Practical Training work experiences, and International Peer Mentors.
Thomas Antis, Germany, AA Transfer DTA
Raju Chaudhari, India, Mechatronics
Tu Do, Vietnam, Dental Hygiene BAS
Isabella Kern, Austria, AA Transfer DTA
Ju Hyung Kim, South Korea, Dental Hygiene BAS
Emiri Sato, Japan, Web Development
Keyli Alvado Pineda, Costa Rica, AA Transfer DTA
Shedrack Mollel, Tanzania, Pre-Nursing
Huijun Tao, China, AA Transfer DTA
Chan Tran, Vietnam, AA Transfer DTA
Nacius Chamtany, Kenya, Pre-Nursing
Mercy Krugat, Kenya, Pre-Nursing
Sharon Kimani, Kenya, Pre-Nursing
Afnan Ajina, Qatar/Palestine, Engineering
Ami Teramura, Japan, Teacher Education, Bachelor (BAS)
Ziyad El Amrani, Morocco, BASAM
Jody Shulnak, associate director of International Programs, Maggie Li, International admissions manager, and Kristen Fowler, international programs coordinator, presented graduating students with colorful stoles representing their country’s flag. Students will wear these stoles over their robes at commencement.
“Each of you in this room took a giant leap of faith and invested a tremendous amount of effort to make your way to Clark College,” Shulnak told the students. “Today commemorates the many ways you have thrived here, and it is a privilege to be a part of your journey.”
Some of the graduating students shared their exciting next chapters. Six students are transferring to four-year universities to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Sharon Kimani has been accepted into Clark’s Nursing program. Raju Chaudhari, who is earning a Mechatronics degree at Clark, has accepted a job with Intel in New Mexico.
International Programs provides support services and opportunities to foster a global perspective and cross-cultural competence for Clark College and the communities it serves. The program also offers an Intensive English Language program. During the 2023-24 academic year, the college had 64 international students.
Clark College celebrated the first cohort of students graduating from its Applied Science in Teacher Education (BASTE) program at a moving pinning ceremony in Child and Family Studies. Family and friends gathered to support the graduates.
The five students graduating with a BASTE degree are:
Caroline Abernathy
Tammy Salazar
Olivia Stevens
Ami Teramura
Emily Thompson
Professor Sarah Theberge pins graduating student Caroline Abernathy during the pinning ceremony. Far left: Professor Michelle Mallory.
“As I think about the arc of the BASTE program from inception to the culmination of the first graduating class, I’m reminded of the ‘village’ it takes to bring forth the quality of this program these students represent,” said Sarah Theberge, Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education and Early Childhood Education faculty. “There have been many voices embedded into BASTE and none more important than these fabulous five folx who have proven to be the finest of learners and have shared the gifts of their learning broadly in classrooms across our community. It’s a proud day for all of us.”
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education (BASTE) degree program is a two-year program that leads to certification in preschool-through 8th grade and endorsements in bilingual education, special education, and early childhood special education.
Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish and Carly Rae Zent
Spring Fest 2024
The stress is high the week before finals. Clark students are studying, writing papers, completing projects, and wrapping up spring quarter. Many students are even finishing a rigorous degree program and preparing for commencement next week. No wonder students are feeling the stress!
Clark’s Activities Programming Board (APB) came to the rescue with Spring Fest, lunchtime fun activities on June 12 and 13. Students, faculty, and staff gathered near Anderson Fountain and the grass near the Chime Tower for fun activities and games—all for free. Some even brought their children to join in on the fun.
Students enjoyed:
Mini golf
Carnival games
Volleyball
Inflatable slides and obstacle courses
Giant Jenga and Connect Four
Airbrushed temporary tattoos
Balloon animals
Therapy llamas Beni and Panda for a fun photo opp
Free burritos and ice cream treats
And more
Students interested in joining Clark’s Activities Programming Board (APB) learn more here.
Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish and Carly Rae Zent
Bee Campus Talk and Tour
Biology Professor Steven Clark shows staff a bee he caught in the wildflower garden.
Thanks to Clark’s Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) for organizing a Bee Campus Talk and Tour with Steven Clark, biology professor and Bee Campus project manager on June 5.
The Teaching and Learning Center sent this invitation to faculty and staff: “We are buzzing with excitement to invite Biology professor and Bee Campus project manager Steven Clark back to spread the good news about Clark’s status as a Bee Campus. Want to learn more about what that means and how to get involved? Want to know how Clark students have participated in this very cool work? Want to learn fun things about bees and go for a stroll in a beautiful garden? Me, too! We will see you there.”
First, faculty and staff gathered in PUB 161 to learn so many interesting bee facts from Steven Clark. When Professor Clark asked people how many types of native bees live in North America, the lowest guess was 3. The highest was 300. What’s your answer?
Q: How many types of native bees live in North America?
A) 3 B) 80 C) 300 D) More
Professor Clark shared the answer: More than 600!
After sharing bee facts, bee habitat, bee life cycles, and much more about bees, Professor Clark led the group across Fort Vancouver Way to the bee garden outside the T Building. Clark’s campus has several bee gardens, thanks to Professor Clark’s leadership.
Clark’s wildflower gardens are abuzz with bees. Notice the orange balls of pollen on this bee’s body.Biology Professor Steven Clark catches a bee in the bee garden.
He caught a few types of bees and other pollinators in jars so that participants could get an up-to-close look. It was an amazing opportunity to learn more about bees and see our gardens of lovely wildflowers.
Clark students have contributed to our Bee Campus by performing bee surveys, building mason bee houses, creating information signs, and more. There are now interpretive signs at the bee gardens explaining and sharing of fun facts about bees.
If you haven’t seen the campus bee gardens yet, make time to do so. It’s best to visit on a warm day when it’s not raining. Professor Clark explained that when it’s cold and rainy, bees go dormant awaiting warmer temperatures.
Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs made two stops at Clark’s campus on June 4.
Veterans Center of Excellence
Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs visited Clark’s Veterans Center of Excellence on June 4.
The secretary, who is an Army veteran and is an active lieutenant colonel with the Washington Army National Guard, first stopped in Clark’s Veterans Center of Excellence. Secretary Hobbs met VCOE staff and current student veterans, who had gathered for a barbecue to celebrate graduating student veterans. Secretary Hobbs shared his story about his working-class roots, military service, and his work as secretary of state.
He learned the value of hard work and education, but there was no money for college, so at age 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a private and rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel with the Washington Army National Guard. He served in Kosovo and Iraq and was mobilized to command 750 service members during Washington’s COVID-19 response. As state senator, he worked with service members to develop legislation ranging from help in education, finding good family-wage jobs, and protecting veterans’ rights.
With help from the G.I. Bill, he was able to pay for college. He received an associate degree from Everett Community College and bachelor’s and master’s degrees in political science and public administration, respectively, from the University of Washington.
He is the first person of color to serve as secretary of state in Washington and only the second in state history who was born in Washington.
Donna Larson, associate director of the VCOE, said, “We were thrilled that Secretary Hobbs took time to visit our students. Being a veteran, he was able to connect with our students and offer insights into transitioning in public service.”
ASCC Leadership
Next, Hobbs sat down with ASCC student leaders to talk about what the Secretary of State does, the myriad services his office provides, the responsibility of being an elected official, the important role of youth voting, and about ensuring Washington’s election security.
A Running Start student who is 18 said she will be voting in her first presidential election in November.
Director of Student Life Sarah Gruhler, who had arranged the secretary’s visit, said, “The visit was a great opportunity for students to learn about the role of the Secretary of State. We really appreciated him encouraging students to vote.”
Archer Gallery was packed, animated, and noisy as dozens of student artists stood in front of their creations and talked to art appreciators about their work. The opening reception and awards ceremony for the Art Student Annual exhibition of Clark College art students drew students, faculty, staff, family members and the community on June 4.
This annual juried exhibit features Clark College art students’ work created in the past year chosen by their Clark College art professors. The strength and breadth of this artwork reflect the hard work, dedication, and unique voices of Clark students.
“This year’s exhibit received 100 more submissions and features almost twice the pieces compared to last year’s exhibit,” said Archer Gallery Director Kendra Larson. Students created their work in the past year. Their art professors curated the work.
Grant Hottle, art professor and head of the art department, said, “I’m absolutely stunned by the level of craft, emotion, passion, and sheer creativity on display this year. We have a superb group of student artists who are producing work at an exceptional level and their hard work and energy is palpable in Archer Gallery.”
“Clark art students contributed some stunning artwork to this year’s exhibit,” said Larson, “The creativity and craftsmanship was top notch. The opening reception was a great way to celebrate all their hard work this year.”
Esmirna Zeledon was awarded Best in Show for her oil painting titled Goddess Study.Oliver Romero was awarded Best Photograph.
2024 Art Student Annual by the Numbers:
250 submissions
122 pieces chosen for the exhibit
69 student artists included
17 awards
15 sponsors
2024 Awards
Best Painting: Hana Lowenthal
Second in Painting: Casey Maomay
Third in Painting: Lindsey Bross
Best Drawing: Maddy Bisila
Second in Drawing: Yuliia Umanets
Third in Drawing: Ally Rounds
Best Ceramics: Raina Perkins
Second in Ceramics: Mara Schwenneker
Best in Printmaking: Lee Weselmann
Best Graphic Design: Gretel Schmidt
Best Silver Gelatin Print: Raiden Concannon
Best Photography: Oliver Romero
Second Photography: McKeena Green
Third Photography: Olivia Smith
Best in Metals: Lindsey LaPore
Best in Show: Esmirna Zeledon
Most Ambitious: Maddy Bisila
Awards prizes were provided by Gamblin Paint, BarbaMingo Restaurant, Clark College Bookstore, I’ve Been Framed Art Supply, Collage, Georgie’s Ceramics, Blick Art Materials, McClain’s Print Supply, Independent Publishing Resource Center, Blue Moon Photo, Pro Photo, Portland Art Museum, Oregon Contemporary (Ox), and Niche Wine Bar.
Exhibition Schedule:
Dates: June 4-14
Gallery hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday until the closing reception and “Phoenix” unveiling from noon-3 p.m. on June 13.
Clark College students were recognized for their outstanding achievements during the annual OSWALD Awards on May 30 in Gaiser Student Center. These students were selected because they are Outstanding Students With Academic Leadership and Development Skills (OSWALD).
Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards welcomed the students and their families. She told the students who will graduate in three weeks: “I’m incredibly excited for you. Don’t let anyone minimize your accomplishment. Congratulations!”
To all the award winners she said, “I want you to know how happy I am for you. Know that you are always a part of Clark College. You can wear your Penguin proudly.”
More than 100 awards were bestowed on Clark students in these categories: Academic Award, Outstanding Student Employee Award, Outstanding Student in a Department Award, Outstanding Student in an ASCC Club Award, and Outstanding Student in an ASCC Program Award.
The Penguin Award
Running Start student and ASCC Vice President Elizabeth Swift receives the 2024 Penguin Award from Dr. Edwards.
The final award was the Penguin Award, awarded annually to a student who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to the Clark College community. This award is based on the student’s performance in the following areas: academics, leadership, community, and college service. A committee of staff and students reviews nominations and selects the student for this award.
Penguin Award Nominees
Stephanie Crocker
Melina Doan
Ziyad El Amrani
Sienna Hahn
Emily Subroto
Penguin Award Winner
Elizabeth Swift, ASCC Vice President
Academic Award
Jasmina Camacena, Communication Studies
Pamela Crawford, Communication Studies
Dorji Damdul, Communication Studies
Joshua DeWees, Communication Studies
Tysson Dykes, Communication Studies
Sidney Exum, Communication Studies
Vella Hongel, Communication Studies
Avery LeCocq, Communication Studies
Carolina Lovato, Communication Studies
Emma Mady, Communication Studies
Ian McCuen, Communication Studies
Cassandra McDaniel, Communication Studies
Natalie Perdun, Communication Studies
Angeline Stefanyuk, Communication Studies
Kimberly Troncoso, Communication Studies
Elliott Vazquez, Communication Studies
Spencer Venable, Communication Studies
Kristina Zubrovych, Communication Studies
Cameron Steiger, Communication Studies/College 101
Mieta Branch, Early Childhood Education
Vanessa Herrera, Early Childhood Education
Vash Martinez, Early Childhood Education
Brenden Prothe, Physics
Paige Cook, Sociology
Joshua DeWees with his supporters at the photo booth.
Outstanding Student Employee Award
Anna Bondar, Child and Family Studies
Olena Bondar, Child and Family Studies
Mia Caggianese, Child and Family Studies
Grace Chen, Child and Family Studies
Jozi Eller, Child and Family Studies
Cindy Ildefonzo, Child and Family Studies
Kristen Jensen-Minkler, Child and Family Studies
Aspen Mallory, Child and Family Studies
Uliana Rudoi-Kostyshyn, Child and Family Studies
Ami Teramura, Child and Family Studies
Naomi Lauser, Environmental Health & Safety Dept.
Cassandra Williams, Environmental Health & Safety Dept.
Jessie Donehey, Library
Paden Geddings, Library
Preston Hagan, Library
Daniel Diego Hernandez, Multicultural Student Affairs Peer Mentors
Left to right: Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards, Bruce Elgort, Heidi Fay, Mackenzie Loyet, and Clark College Trustee Suzanne Donaldson.
Four newly tenured faculty members were honored at the 2024 tenure reception on May 28 in PUB (Penguin Union Building) 161. Clark’s Board of Trustees, President Dr. Karin Edwards, faculty, staff, and families gathered to celebrate the achievement of the recently tenured faculty.
During her welcome message, Dr. Edwards said, “Some have described the tenure process as a three-year professional development plan. It’s an intense process and a journey for all of you. Congratulations on your achievement.”
The following faculty members were honored:
Bruce Elgort, Computer Technology
Left to right: Computer Technology Professor Dr. William Baker, Gayle Elgort, Professor Bruce Elgort, Network Technology Professor Dwight Hughes, Dean of WPTE and STEM Theo Koupelis, and Computer Technology Professor Adam Colman.
Dean of WPTE and STEM Dr. Theo Koupelis presented Professor Bruce Elgort with his certificate.
Feedback from Professor Elgort’s students:
“You can tell he has real passion for the field and for teaching students.”
“He keeps the class engaged and he is very responsive to our needs. He is respectful, providing clear instructions and pathways to success.”
“Bruce connects with each student individually… He remembers every student by name and makes sure to address each one during the lesson. I never feel alone in his classes. He always checks if everyone is keeping up with his speed (which can be challenging at times, to be honest). Rest assured; you won’t fall asleep in his lessons!”
“Throughout my time studying at Clark College, I have not encountered a more engaging teaching style.”
“He is amazing when it comes to technology and people… He continues to help and support many of his students even after they graduate.”
Heidi Fay, Pharmacy Technician
Dean of Business and Health Sciences Dr. Scot Headley with Professor Heidi Fay, Pharmacy Tech.
Dean of Business and Health Sciences Dr. Scot Headley presented Professor Heidi Fay with her certificate.
Dr. Headley said, “Heidi is caring, competent, and committed. She has exceptional technical skills, teaching skills, and administrative skills. She maintains good relationships with our external partners, who provide our students with externships, and later, jobs.”
Feedback from Professor Fay’s students:
“Heidi provides detailed feedback on your work and how you are achieving course outcomes. She answers all questions and makes certain that all her students fully understand before moving on.”
“You can tell that Heidi wants all her students to succeed. She makes certain that her students have a full understanding of the coursework and know about available resources.”
“Heidi made it possible to understand the material well and to practice doing the work in order to be able to make a career.”
Mackenzie Loyet, Biology
Left to right: Mackenzie Loyet with fellow Biology Professor Dr. Catherine Crosby.
Dean of WPTE and STEM Dr. Theo Koupelis presented Mackenzie Loyet with her certificate.
He read comments from her colleagues, including: “Mac is an excellent instructor. She’s positive, well-organized, patient, knowledgeable, communicative, energetic, kind, caring, respectful, and very supportive of her students, who love having her as their Human Anatomy and Physiology professor, as evidenced by the glowing comments on her student evaluations.”
Feedback from Professor Loyet’s students:
“She has amazing knowledge of the content and can seamlessly explain anything you need to know. She teaches in a way that is easy to understand. Easily the best professor I’ve had at Clark.”
“She ensures her students comprehend the complex material. Her knowledge and expertise in the subject matter are evident, allowing her to effectively convey information and answer questions with clarity. What sets Professor Loyet apart is her ability to create
an engaging, enjoyable learning environment. She utilizes various teaching strategies, incorporating interactive activities, visual aids, and real-life examples to enhance understanding and retention. This approach fosters a deeper comprehension of the subject matter and keeps the class motivated and eager to learn. Professor Loyet’s approachability, teaching methods, and commitment to student success make her the best teacher I have encountered during my time at Clark.”
Heather Reynolds, Nursing
Dean of Business and Health Sciences Dr. Scot Headley presented Professor Heather Reynolds with her certificate. Associate Dean of Health Sciences Jennifer Obbard accepted the certificate on Heather’s behalf.
She said, “Heather is an exemplary faculty. She speaks up, has vision, and contributes to the department and students in so many ways that make a difference. She is a leader among faculty in the department who brings ideas that lead with equity and inclusion… Heather’s students express that she creates a safe environment, leans into challenging conversations, and supports students to deepen their learning. Heather conveys passion for teaching and genuine care for students and their success.”
Feedback from Professor Reynolds’ students:
“Professor Reynolds has been the best teacher I have experienced. She is thoughtful, funny, receptive, and shows vulnerability which provides an enriched learning environment. She makes you feel heard. She’s a good one!”
“She inspired and empowered me. I loved the personal, detailed feedback she gave for each assignment. She is thoughtful and kind with her approach.”
Learn more
Read an earlier story about Professor Elgort’s tenure here.
Read an earlier story about the tenure of professors Fay, Loyet, and Reynolds here.
BUILD 2023-24
Jennifer Obbard, Heidi Summers, and Dr. Tina Redd present their project to an audience of their peers.
The fifth class of Clark’s Broadening Understanding, Intercultural Leadership and Development program (BUILD) presented their projects to the college community on May 20 and 23. The BUILD cohort’s graduation was May 24.
BUILD is a nine-month cohort-based program designed to develop intercultural competency and equity in leadership amongst Clark College staff, faculty, and students. The program encourages participants to explore power, privilege, and inequity and their implications through awareness, learning, and practicing social equity.
Our BUILD program challenges faculty and staff to work together for nine months to go through the equitable decision-making process leading to the creation of a thought-provoking project proposal that challenges the status quo and has the capacity to make a difference in the equity work at the college.
Below are this year’s eight teams of the BUILD Silver Cohort and their projects:
Project:Microaggressions: Recognition & Response
Team: Dr. Tina Redd (Office of Instruction), Jennifer Obbard (Nursing), Brad Avakian (Human Resources), Sudha Frederick (Information Technology Services), Heidi Summers (Transitional, English, Communities & Humanities)
Description: Create a community of practice around speaking up when microaggressions occur based on a basic assumption and strategies to interrupt.
Project:A Tool for Increasing Access to PPI Training
Team: Mike Arnold (Physical Education), Thao Schmidt (Human Resources), Cole Timpone (Entry Services), Stacie Murdoch (Office of Instruction)
Description: We have created a Microsoft Form survey that can be sent to all Clark employees and will capture helpful scheduling information to help increase inclusion and campus-wide allies.
Team: Donna Potts (Nursing), Vanessa Bural (Human Resources), DJ Scates (Student Success Programs), Billie Trimbo (Child & Family Services), Dan Palow (Clark College Foundation)
Description: Using accessible technology is vital to the success of all members of our college community. Equip yourself with this Accessible Document Making Tool to make your communication more accessible for your audience.
Project:Understanding the challenges and triumphs of ESL students at Clark College: A learning, reflecting, and action session for faculty and staff
Team: Rocio Rodriguez (Office of Instruction), Olga Lyubar (Health Information Management), Tyler Frank (Career and Academic Preparation), Emily Meoz (Advising), Justin Stokes (Clark College Foundation)
Description: Staff and faculty are invited to participate in an interactive learning and reflection session about how to better support current and alumni ESL students in Transitional Studies. Hear real student stories and reflections on what successes they had and why, what challenges they faced, and what could have been better.
Project: Social Justice Canvas Shell
Team:Tre Sandlin (Teaching and Learning Center), Tosha Big Eagle (Workforce Education Services), Cecelia Martin (Planning and Effectiveness)
Description: The project centers on a Canvas Shell meant to help student employees at Clark explore Social Justice issues asynchronously and learn about the various populations of students they’ll support here.
Project:Proposal to implement an I-BEST model for Allied Health (AH) 100 to recruit and retain more English Language Learners in the allied health pathways.
Team: Amy Castellano (Phlebotomy), Alejandra Maciulewicz-Herring (Medical Assisting), Hudson Fox (Disability Support Services) Grace Spadoro (Advising)
Description: Creating a list and canvas page of resources and supports at Clark College. Also creating a list and template of classroom modifications to implement in the classroom.
Project:Using I-Best to Help English Language Learners Succeed in Allied Health Programs
Team: Donna Larson (Veterans Resource Center of Excellence), Angie Bailey (Nursing), Aaron Campbell (Advising), Kelly Eagan (Transitional Studies), Sarah Kuzera (Medical Assisting)
Description: Proposal to implement an I-BEST model for Allied Health (AH) 100 to recruit and retain more English Language Learners in the allied health pathways.
Project:English Conversation Groups: Connecting ESL Students to Clark College
Team: Karl Bailey (Chemistry), Sara Gallow (English as a Second Language), Lauren Wooten (Economic and Community Development), Lucy Mackintosh (Libraries)
Description: An event that connects instructors and staff from outside the ESL program with students in the ESL program. The purpose is to increase students’ knowledge of the college and to encourage them to continue their education after they complete their CAP classes.
Employees hold up stop signs when they recognize microaggressions.
Learn more:
Because BUILD is a leadership and development program, the true value is the inward reflection needed for outward action and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism work.
As with most leadership development programs, a foundational component is learning that before one leads others, there is great importance in leading oneself. This means intentional self-reflection to better understand one’s values and beliefs while also doing internal work to expand knowledge and understanding to grow.
During the BUILD program, participants complete a series of ODEI antiracist trainings to build knowledge and skills toward equity leadership and intercultural competency.
Upon completion of the program, folx are expected to serve as equity ambassadors in their respective areas to advocate that policies, processes, procedures, decision-making, communications, and services are developed, implemented, and assessed equitably and in ways that center student and employee populations that most often experience inequitable outcomes in learning and workplace environments.
The ODEI team adds graduates to a BUILD Graduates listserv, which allows folx to reach out to these graduates to serve on a committee, workgroup, and so on. The college community, and beyond, continues to have a high interest in growing in intercultural leadership and development.
Vanessa Neal with graduates (left to right): Tre Sandlin, Aaron Campbell, and Lauren Wooten.
Apply to join the 2024-2025 BUILD Yellow cohort: View the application here.
