Congratulations, Dennis Blew, Management Analyst 3 in Enrollment Services, for receiving the Fall 2024 Classified Staff Excellence Award.
A warm congratulations to the other award nominees:
Angelina Albulov, Administrative Assistant 3, Social Sciences & Fine Arts
Dena Al-Mousawi, Program Coordinator, Office of VP Student Affairs
Jacob Salomon, Program Coordinator, Human Resources
Katie Massey, Deaf Interpreter 3, Disability Access Center
Kelly Eagan, Program Assistant, Transitional Studies Division
Marla Derrick, Program Coordinator, Athletics
Sara Irons, Early Childhood Specialist 2, Child & Family Services
Excerpts from Dennis’ nomination
“Dennis consistently demonstrates exceptional work performance, going above and beyond his assigned duties. His innovative approach to problem-solving has led to significant efficiency improvements within Enrollment Services and across the college. Dennis possesses a strong work ethic and consistently delivers high-quality work, even under tight deadlines. He is highly organized and detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in all his tasks. His ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances and learn new technologies has been invaluable to the department.”
“Dennis has made significant contributions to the college community through his leadership in several key areas. As the Lead Query Developer, he has supported the query development process for Clark College, with a focus on improving efficiency and accuracy for all users. He has also taken on the role of a subject matter expert for ctcLink, providing valuable training and support to staff across the college. Dennis has been instrumental in enhancing our use of the PeopleSoft system.”
“Dennis is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment. He actively participates in diversity and equity initiatives, such as attending workshops and training sessions. He is respectful of all individuals, regardless of their background or identity, and creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all. Dennis is dedicated to ensuring equitable access to higher education for all students. He works diligently to assist students from diverse backgrounds, including first-generation, low-income, and international students, in navigating the enrollment process and accessing the support services they need to succeed.”
About the Classified Staff Awards
Established in 2005, the Classified Staff Excellence Award recognizes classified staff who have demonstrated exemplary work performance, a positive and cooperative spirit, special achievements, or contributions to the college community, and supports individual and organizational diversity and inclusion. Through the support of the Clark College Foundation, the recipient will receive a $400 cash award.
Criteria: Nominees must be a current classified employee who has been in their current position for more than six months. Award recipients will not be eligible for another award for three years.
Visit the Clark College Employee Recognition page to learn more about this award and other ways to acknowledge the value and dedication of our staff and faculty.
2023 Walktober Challenge winner Sydney Brahmavar and her running buddy Jimmy.
Get ready, Clark College Community! The Walktober Challenge is back, and we can’t wait to kick off this exciting annual competition with Lower Columbia College and Washington State University Vancouver. Let’s join forces in October and bring that trophy home to the Penguin Nation!
What is Walktober?
Walktober is a 31-day movement challenge designed for faculty, staff, and students. Whether you’re a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just looking to add a little more movement to your day, this is a no-cost opportunity to get active and engage with our community. Together, we’ll help Clark College earn the title of “Walktober College Champion.”
This year, we wanted to give every participant an opportunity to win a prize, so we have added a raffle where every participant has a shot at winning.
Cath Busha with her walking buddy Ruth a high-energy blue heeler-German shorthair Pointer mix.
Tips from 2023 Walktober Challenge participants who logged the most steps
Sydney Brahmavar, Atmospheric Science instructor: 812,535 steps
“I am a trail runner with a dog who also needs a lot of walking and running. I just tracked my usual activity. I did nothing special for Walktober. I am lucky to have trails right outside my house, so I start every day with a long run or hike with my dog and end most days with a long walk with him as well. The time in the forest helps me connect with the Earth, prepare for or process my day, and stay grounded and happy.”
Terri Anderson, Dental Hygiene: 623,862 steps
Terri’s Dental Hygiene department completed the most steps in the 2023 Walktober Challenge. “We sometimes walk together on a break or lunch. We also give each other kudos for our progress and motivate ourselves.”
“I always like a challenge. I am a runner and most of my steps were accumulated by running. I also get a lot of steps during my day at work. The Walktober Challenge is a good way to get out of your office chair. It is not good to sit all day long. Get up, find a friend, a go for a walk.”
Aaron McPherson, Facilities: 575,229 steps
“My position is custodian, and I usually cover at least two buildings a night (O’Connell and Beacock) during graveyard hours, so I do a lot of walking on campus regularly. Some of it was running, but I tried to keep the running to a minimum. Regardless of your final total step count or overall rank, it is far better for your health to get up and move than to stay stationary. If you can’t do it for Clark, then do it for yourself.”
Cath Busha, Student Affairs: 448,530 steps
“I LOVE walking and hiking. It’s part of my daily practice, not only for physical health, but mental health, as well. It was fun to count up my steps for the work challenge. My daily goal is to walk 15k-20k steps. Every morning before work I walk about 8k steps with my dog, Ruth (or I should say she walks me. She’s a very high-energy blue heeler/German Shorthair Pointer mix).” “At work, I eat my lunch at my desk, then use my lunch break to walk and listen to podcasts. I also take walk ‘snack breaks’ during the day and will do a loop around campus or through Gaiser/PUB to see folx and stretch. At home, I finish my days with a long walk—sometimes talking with friends, sometimes walking with a friend. On the weekends, I hike (Falls Creek Falls and Hamilton Mountain are my favs) and I also walk A LOT with my partner — it’s our favorite date!”
Cath encourages fellow Penguins to walk: “The data are clear: If you’re able to, moving our bodies is so good for our physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and social health. Start where you are, set your own goals, and go from there. ‘Habit stack’ walking and moving with other things you enjoy (ie talking to someone; taking pictures; walking to a favorite bakery; noticing nature; listening to an audiobook) is another great way to build walking into your daily life.”
How to Participate
Track your steps: Log your total daily steps from October 1-31 using the attached Walktober Log here.
Use technology: Use your smartphone or smartwatch to track your daily movements. Use your smartphone to search fitness trackers.
Earn tickets for prizes: For every 1,000 steps you log, earn tickets to be entered into our prize raffle. Tickets for three employees and three students will be drawn to win raffle prizes.
Collect your incentive prize: At the end of the challenge, participants who submit their Walktober log in person to Human Resources (BRD 133) will receive an incentive prize and can choose between a selection of Clark-branded swag (while supplies last).
Vary your activities: Walktober isn’t just about walking! Check out the Step Equivalency Chart to see how other activities count toward your movement goals.
Last day to enter: Submit your completed Walktober log to Vanessa Bural at vbural@clark.edu or stop by Human Resources (BRD 133) by November 7.
“Let’s move! Walking is a fantastic way to boost your energy and improve your health. Take advantage of the beautiful fall weather. Step outside or meet up with friends for a stroll around campus. All movement counts! We can’t wait to see how far we can go together this October. Let’s make this a fun and active month!” —Clark’s Well-Being Team: Vanessa Bural, Dr. Evelyn Buschur, Veronica Brock, Mike Law, Valentina Pishchanskaya-Cayanan, and Tre Sandlin
2023 Penguin Nation Walktober Stats
84 participants (employees and students)
23,344,718 total steps (more than 23 million steps!)
277,913 average steps per participant
Department with the most participants: Dental Hygiene with 12 participants
Department with the most steps: Dental Hygiene with 3,472,767 total steps
Department with largest average steps: Veterans Center of Excellence with 536,981 average steps
2023 Walktober Challenge: Penguins who logged more than 400,000 steps
Sydney Brahmavar, Meteorology: 812,535
Terri Anderson, Dental Hygiene: 623,862
Aaron McPherson, Facilities: 575,229
Donna Larson, Veterans Center of Excellence: 567,893
Megan Anderson, Veterans Center of Excellence: 506,069
Getting to Know Clark’s new VPI, Dr. William “Terry” Brown
Left to right: Vice President of Operations Sabra Sand, President Dr. Karin Edwards, and Vice President of Instruction Dr. William “Terry” Brown.
Clark College named Dr. William “Terry” Brown, a college administrator from Connecticut to serve as its Vice President of Instruction. Dr. Brown started on July 8, the first day of summer term.
Dr. Brown is new to the Vancouver area. To transport their enormous Rhodesian Ridgeback dog “Chief,” Dr. Brown and his family drove more than 3,000 miles from Northford, Connecticut during the July heat wave. Despite the long journey and cross-country move, Dr. Brown has jumped feet-first into his role, meeting with leaders across the college, meeting a visiting delegation from Joyo, Japan, and touring the college’s new Boschma Farms facility during his first week on the job.
As the senior academic officer of the college, Dr. Brown is responsible for the comprehensive academic landscape for all program development and assessment, in addition to leading a dynamic educational environment and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation for the college. Dr. Brown also will serve on the college’s Executive Cabinet, a leadership team led by the college’s president, Dr. Karin Edwards.
President Edwards said, “I am excited to welcome Dr. Brown to Clark College. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in teaching and leadership in higher education, in addition to a demonstrated commitment to equitable student success.”
Dr. Brown will oversee the college’s 650+ faculty members and over 100 academic and workforce programs including five bachelor of applied science degrees. The areas under the guidance of the VPI encompass five academic divisions, non-credit and workforce training, Library Services, eLearning, Faculty development/Teaching and Learning Center, Adult/Basic Education/ESL and Adult Literacy, outcomes assessment, accreditation, Guided Pathways, and academic support services.
“I am absolutely thrilled to be at Clark College,” said Dr. Brown. “Education is still the lynchpin for personal growth and economic success for our students and communities, and Clark College is at the forefront of making sure that anyone in our community has the opportunity to transform their lives and fortunes.” He added, “I look forward to joining the faculty, staff, and administrators at Clark in the impactful work we do for our students and communities.”
Dr. Brown was hired after a nationwide search that included extensive interviews with a hiring committee, college leadership, and an open forum with the college community.
Dr. Brown, far left, with Jodi Shulnak and Kristen Fowler from International Programs.
Professional Experience
He has invested more than 30 years working in higher education, in both teaching and leading in colleges in Connecticut, Delaware, Tennessee, and now Washington State.
Previously, Dr. Brown was the Associate Vice President for Strategic Operations and Partnership Development at Connecticut State Community College, New Britain, Connecticut. Before that, he was the Chief Executive Officer for Gateway Community College in New Haven, Connecticut.
Dr. Brown’s career in higher education also includes administrative positions at Naugatuck Valley Community College, Waterbury, Connecticut, at Housatonic Community College, Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Nashville State Community College, Nashville, Tennessee.
Earlier, Dr. Brown was a full-time faculty member at a community college in Connecticut, and an adjunct faculty member at two colleges in Delaware and another in Connecticut.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Florida, and a master’s and doctoral degrees in clinical psychology from the University of Delaware. He finished his professional training at Yale School of Medicine, completing predoctoral fellowships at Yale-New Haven Hospital and Yale Psychiatric Institute (now Yale-New Haven Psychiatric Hospital), and a postdoctoral fellowship at the Yale Child Study Center.
A recognized higher education leader, Dr. Brown was named to the 100 Most Influential Blacks in Connecticut by the Connecticut chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) for 2021. He was a member of the Class of 2023-2024 cohort of American Association of State Colleges and Universities Millennium Leadership Initiative.
Q & A: Fun facts about Dr. Brown
Dr. Brown with a stuffed penguin at Boschma Farms.
Q: Tell us about your family.
A: My wife, Yulonda Brown (née Candelario), is a certified surgical technologist who is excited about all the fishing opportunities in Vancouver and the Pacific Northwest. She also is looking forward to an opportunity to visit Alaska. Our son, Zion, is a liberal arts college student with a deep interest in history, aviation, and photography, and he will be starting at Clark in the fall. Our Rhodesian Ridgeback, “Chief” enjoys long hikes, followed by a longer nap.
Q: We hear you’re an avid cook.
A: I do love to cook, particularly several regional styles of barbecue. I learn to cook anything I love to eat. I cook southern Soul Food, Southeast Asian, Italian, Creole/Cajun. Lately, I’ve taken to grinding my own meat for burgers and homemade sausages and making sourdough bread and pizza dough from scratch.
Q: What other hobbies or sports do you enjoy?
A: Hiking, SCUBA diving and snorkeling, travel. In my younger days, I was a pretty good volleyball player. I could play any position but loved being on backline defense or middle blocker.
Q: Favorite music/genre?
A: Soul and R&B from the late-80s and 90s: Boyz II Men, New Edition, Jodeci, and Dru Hill are some of my favorite artists.
Q: Music/musician on your playlist?
A: I have a huge celebrity crush on Cardi B. Her attitude and honesty are captivating!
Q: Favorite book you read recently?
A: “Martin Luther King, Jr., on Leadership: Inspiration and Wisdom for Challenging Times” by Donald T. Phillips (2000)
Q: Favorite binge-watching?
A: Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day every year, I binge-watch the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies from “Captain America: The First Avenger” to “Avengers: Endgame” (with “Deadpool” thrown in, just for fun!).
Q: Favorite cities to visit?
A:I always look forward to a chance to visit Washington, D.C. and New Orleans, Louisianna.
Q: What is an interesting place you visited?
A: A trip to the Hawai’i had been a dream of mine since I was a teenager, and we visited Oahu and the Big Island in June of 2021. From visiting Pearl Harbor and hiking Diamond Head, to hunting wild cattle, to seeing sea turtles on black sand beaches and being in the water with manta rays, it was the trip of a lifetime.
Q: Favorite sports teams?
A: Florida Gators, Dallas Cowboys (I met Tony Dorsett when I was 6 or 7 years old, and I have been Cowboys fan ever since).
Q: What are you looking forward to exploring in the area?
A: All the outdoor activities – hiking and fishing especially—and getting the chance to visit Portland, Seattle, and eventually, Alaska.
Q: What was a memorable sight during your cross-country drive to start your new position at Clark College?
A: Driving through the Columbia River Gorge and seeing Mount Hood rising up in the distance was quite a sight. (Editor’s note: Mount Hood is the highest point in Oregon at 11,249 feet, almost five times higher than Mount Frissell at 2,380 feet, the highest point in Connecticut.)
Q: How did your family drive across the country from Northford, Connecticut to Vancouver, Washington during a July heat wave with your enormous Rhodesian Ridgeback, Chief, riding in the backseat?
A: Slowly, over 11 days, with lots of breaks for walks! We drove an average of four to six hours per day—so not long, grueling hours driving. We stayed in dog-friendly hotels and provided ample opportunities for all of us to stretch our legs.
Q: What are you enthusiastic about at Clark College?
A: I am extremely excited about Clark College’s commitment to equity and social justice. Access to education is a civil right, and higher education is still the gateway to opportunity and success for so many members of our community. It is a privilege to be invited to serve here.
Q: How do you prefer people to connect with you?
A: I enjoy meeting people face-to-face whenever possible, but just connecting is the important thing. Anyone is welcome to stop by and say hello, but I need to explore Clark and get to know the campus, so I’m happy to visit you in your space.
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
Congratulations, William (Tre) Sandlin, Instructional Accessibility Specialist in the Teaching and Learning Center for receiving the Spring 2024 Classified Staff Excellence Award.
A warm congratulations to the other award nominees:
Laura Borgman, Secretary Senior, Transitional Studies Division
Stephanie Hall, Secretary Senior, WPTE+ STEM Unit
Sergey Kachenkov, IT System Administration Entry, Library Services
“Tre takes the necessary time to assess the impacts of our work could have on his peers. I have the privilege of working with Tre creating accessible content. His awareness of trauma and racism and how they come into play for the content we see and deal with has made all the difference to me. For example, we were enrolled in a class about mass genocides, and one week covered mass genocides in Africa. Instead of passing that content onto me, a Black colleague, he took on that work. I could visibly see the effects it had on him. He expressed his knowledge of how racism played in mass genocides and his understanding of how that content could have affected me.”
“He serves on the art committee, and he has worked to make sure that the art being displayed is inclusive and diverse.”
“Tre works incredibly hard to make sure students have access to their learning materials so they can be successful in class and at the college regardless of their identities, experiences, or abilities. He is the fastest accessibility editor I have ever met, and he is always ready to offer support, encouragement, and expert guidance to faculty and staff who are trying to improve the accessibility of their work.”
Left to Right: Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Vanessa Neal with Tre Sandlin who received a completion certificate at the BUILD graduation ceremony this spring.
“Tre is so clearly committed to creating a world where all people are welcome and treated with respect and dignity. Tre has contributed greatly to checking the Braille signage at both the main campus and CTC as part of his work with the universal design committee. Tre just recently finished his year as part of the BUILD program and is continuing to work with his project partners. Honestly, Tre’s contributions to the college cannot be emphasized enough in terms of his work ethic, his sustained efforts to improve accessibility, and his support of students and colleagues. Tre is always striving to learn more and do better to create a more inclusive and caring workplace for all of us.”
About the Classified Staff Awards
Established in 2005, the Classified Staff Excellence Award recognizes classified staff who have demonstrated exemplary work performance, a positive and cooperative spirit, special achievements, or contributions to the college community, and supports individual and organizational diversity and inclusion. Through the support of the Clark College Foundation, the recipient will receive a $400 cash award.
Nominees must be a current classified employee who has been in their current position for more than six months. Award recipients will not be eligible for another award for three years. Visit the Clark College Employee Recognition page to learn more about this award and other ways to acknowledge the value and dedication of our staff and faculty.
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.
Winter 2024 Classified Staff Excellence Award
Congratulations to Lucy Mackintosh, Library and Archives Paraprofessional, Access Services. Lucy is the recipient of the Winter 2024 Classified Staff Excellence Award.
Excerpts from Lucy’s nomination:
“Lucy is dedicated to making our college a more diverse and inclusive place. She is currently in the B.U.I.L.D. (Broadening Understanding, Intercultural Leadership and Development) program, and she is bringing those ideas into her job as a library technician and student employee supervisor. Lucy leads discussions and reflections on inequality in libraries as part of a training program for our student employees. She also applies these ideas in her everyday work. Lucy advocates for fair policies and decision making in Access Services. Her passion for diversity and inclusion is making a real impact in how we actually do things here.”
“Lucy’s contributions to the college community are most evident in her role as the supervisor of the library’s work study student employees. Lucy exemplifies a level of dedication and compassion that significantly enhances the experience for our students. Her leadership in fostering a positive and inclusive environment for our student employees is truly commendable. Lucy’s exceptional coaching skills shine through as she demonstrates a keen understanding of each student’s unique strengths and challenges. She not only motivates them to perform at their best but also ensures they feel valued and supported in their roles. Lucy’s empathetic approach creates a space where our student employees are comfortable being themselves, fostering a sense of belonging within the college community. She is an invaluable asset to the library and our institution.”
A student employee who is supervised by Lucy wrote: “Lucy is the star of the workplace when it comes to work spirit. Always offering to lend a hand whenever possible, even though inconvenient, and with a smile on her face, Lucy’s consistently positive spirit is inspiring. Always encouraging us student-workers to achieve high proficiency in our tasks by keeping us accountable with training, she still never forgets to be personable. The difference between her and other bosses that I have had is that she has always made me
feel like a human. I’m not just another worker-bee for her, zooming across the library with endless book shelving. I can remember multiple occasions during training where she would take time out of her busy schedule to just check in to see if I had any questions or feelings. She strives in her position of managing all student employees at the Cannell Library because she takes the energy to get to know us as people.”
We would also like to acknowledge the contributions of the other nominees:
Jami Crawford, IT Customer Support, IT Services
Adrianne Langit, IT Customer Service Technician, IT Services
Karina Sanchez, Program Specialist 3, Financial Aid
DJ Scates, Tenure Support Supervisor, Office of Instruction
Jessica Wehrman, Program Specialist 2, Enrollment Services
About the Classified Staff Awards
Established in 2005, the Classified Staff Excellence Award recognizes classified staff who have demonstrated exemplary work performance, a positive and cooperative spirit, special achievements, or contributions to the college community, and supports individual and organizational diversity and inclusion. Through the support of the Clark College Foundation, the recipient will receive a $400 cash award.
Nominees must be a current classified employee who has been in their current position for more than six months. Award recipients will not be eligible for another award for three years. Visit the Clark College Employee Recognition page to learn more about this award and other ways to acknowledge the value and dedication of our staff and faculty.
A history of Classified Award recipients
2023: Manda Levie (winter), Cheryl Davenport (spring), Heather King (summer), Andra Spencer (fall)
2022: Chris Chaffin (winter), Svitlana Havrylyuk (spring), Christopher Layfield (summer), Papel Popov (fall)
2021: Jennifer Shadley (winter), Damon Grady (spring), Jordan De Van (summer), Denise Rotellini (fall)
2020: Jennifer Stone (winter), Silvia Marinova (spring), Connor Cantrell (summer), Pedro Hernandez (fall)
2019: Sarah Seyller (winter), Amanda Brown (spring), Heather Adams (summer), Bryton Williams (fall)
2018: Eben Ayers (winter), Shelly Williams (spring), Sherry Smith (summer), Ian Beckett (fall)
2017: David Sims (winter), Aleksandr Anisimov (spring), Rebecca (Becky) Udwary (summer), Jessica Beach (fall)
2016: Judy Healy (spring), Joanne Emel (summer), Carmen Roman (fall)
2008: Vicki Presley (winter), Francisco Ramos-Medrano (spring), Susan Muir (summer), Amy Waite (fall)
2007: Susan Harding (winter), Mark Owsley (spring), Samantha Lelo (summer), Paul Caggianese (fall)
2006: Nell Gladson (winter), Joy Horning (spring), Lynn Schinzing (summer), Ann Hansen (fall)
2005: Lucy Shao (fall)
Healthy Penguin Nation
The Healthy Penguin Nation wellness program conducted by human resources and the college well-being team has been awarded the Zo8 Award for 2024 by the Washington State Health Care Authority. The award is given to employers who promote wellness to support employees and their families by sharing resources and conducting wellness initiatives focusing on enhancing health, reducing health and injury risks, and improving overall health and well-being.
This is the second time Clark College has received the wellness award. The college last won a Zo8 award in 2016.
Each year, Washington Wellness honors organizations with the Zo8 award for their achievements in building, growing, and maintaining an effective health program. Organizations are invited to apply to highlight their institution’s wellness program and initiatives throughout the year to Washington Wellness.
Clark College received the Zo8 award by promoting health and well-being through the College’s Healthy Penguin Nation program to the college community through newsletters, events, discounts, presentations, fairs, campus emails, promoting programs such as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and SmartHealth, a Washington Wellness program for eligible PEBB (Public Employees Benefits Board) employees, which offers employees an annual $125 wellness incentive.
About Clark’s Healthy Penguin Nation wellness program
The Healthy Penguin Nation program is a college-wide initiative to create a culture of well-being in support of the state of Washington’s initiative to promote healthy lifestyle practices in the workplace.
We aim to engage, educate, and empower the Clark College Community in healthy behaviors by developing, implementing, and supporting various wellness activities based on solid research and best practices. As the Wellness Team, we encourage the Clark College Community to thoughtfully consider their relationship to health and prioritize well-being for each other.
We do this by adhering to a holistic model of well-being that focuses on the whole person—offering a wide range of resources that support employees on their wellness journeys in Eight Dimensions that influence overall well-being.
Each year, Washington Wellness recognizes organizations with our Zo8 Award for their achievement in building, growing, and sustaining an effective wellness program. A wellness program aims to help employees and their family members be their best through positive behavior changes. These changes focus on enhancing well-being, reducing health and injury risks, and improving overall health. Washington Wellness encourages organizations to use the SmartHealth Workplace Wellness Roadmap. It is an eight-step process based on industry-preferred practices to help build the infrastructure for a sustainable wellness program. The roadmap can help organizations plan for and target key areas for success. The Zo8 award represents the organization’s commitment to its employees’ well-being.
To learn more about the Zo8 award visit the Washington State Healthcare Authority website.
What do Zo8 award winners receive? Washington Wellness celebrates Zo8 award winners during an annual recognition ceremony. Winning organizations receive a physical award, certificates for contributing members, and a logo to use in publications, signature lines, and websites to recognize their achievements.
About the Zo8 logo
Name Zo: In Greek, it means “live.”
Number 8: The eight steps in our wellness program project plan guide.
Logo shape: Flower of Life pattern is known to inspire.
Colors: Based on the four elements that support life (air, earth, water, and fire)
Eight Dimensions of Well-being
Physical
Emotional
Occupational
Environmental
Intellectual
Spiritual
Financial
Social
Fall Classified Staff Excellence Award
Andra, fourth from the left, with other Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion staff during an Opening Day event.
A warm congratulations to Andra Spencer, Equity Professional Development Program Manager from the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, as the recipient of the Fall 2023 Classified Staff Excellence Award.
Excerpts from Andra’s nomination:
“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. Her sessions at Teaching and Learning Days and Fall Faculty Focus were packed and received overwhelmingly positive feedback and demands for a part two!”
“Equity is at the center of everything Andra does. Recognizing a gap in knowledge at the college, Andra spent time over the summer doing intense research on antisemitism and how to disrupt it, and developed a training for both Teaching and Learning Days and Fall Faculty Focus that was presented to PACKED rooms! Andra also developed training on creating inclusive learning environments, bringing her teaching expertise into her role here at ODEI and developing training specifically targeted to faculty, something that ODEI hasn’t done before.”
“Andra is well connected throughout the college – attending every event she can and volunteering to help out in any way. She collaborates with others on the team to execute projects and is always one of the first people there to set up and one of the last to leave after cleaning up. Her cooperative spirit is evident in her leadership on the Teaching and Learning Days Committee, the NWREC planning team, the O-Squad, Level Up, and many other cross-college initiatives.”
We also would like to acknowledge the contributions of the other nominees:
Becky Lindsay, Program Specialist II, Dental Hygiene
Nichole Maruca, Program Specialist II, Enrollment Services
Shelly Williams, Program Coordinator, Fine Art Division
Tani McBeth, Technical Training Consultant, eLearning
Teresa (Terry) Haye, Program Manager A, BASTE Bachelor of Teacher Education
About the Classified Staff Awards
The Classified Staff Excellence Award was established in 2005 and recognizes classified staff who have demonstrated exemplary work performance, a positive and cooperative spirit, special achievements or contributions to the college community, and supports individual and organizational diversity and inclusion. Through the support of the Clark College Foundation, the recipient will receive a $400 cash award.
Nominees must be a current classified employee who has been in their current position for more than six months. Award recipients will not be eligible to receive another award for three years.
Visit the Clark College Employee Recognition page to learn more about this award and other ways to acknowledge the value and dedication of our staff and faculty.
Quality Matters Award
Dr. Kathy Chatfield has been recognized for her outstanding efforts toward improving digital learning at Clark College.
Chatfield, who leads the college’s eLearning and instructional design department, has received the Ron Legon Leadership Award for Quality Digital Education bestowed by Quality Matters and MarylandOnline. The award is reserved for singular contributors to the mission of continuous improvement in digital learning.
Quality Matters is an international leader for quality assurance in online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. Chatfield is among five award recipients who have demonstrated an exceptional dedication to quality in digital learning.
Chatfield’s work of improving online experiences for students includes building sustainable quality assurance processes at the institutional level. Clark College began offering online classes in 2005. Online classes were the first to fill and the first to put students on a waitlist.
Quality Matters stated: “The Ron Legon award acknowledges the impact Chatfield’s leadership has had on faculty, staff, students and the educational landscape at large through her steadfast devotion to the pursuit of quality assurance.”
In their recognition, Quality Matters added: “Chatfield represents a strong voice at both the college and state levels, where she helps sustain support for the importance of quality standards in online learning. At Clark College, she works to maintain the culture of professional development she has built among the institution’s faculty. As a member of the Washington State eLearning Council, she has championed statewide adoption of effective policy on digital learning.”
“I am very honored to have been selected as the recipient of this year’s Leadership Award for Quality Digital Education,” Chatfield said. “The rigor and dedication to quality that is involved in education and peer-reviewed course design through the Quality Matters organization inspires us to always strive for better, stay on a path of continuous improvement and seek greatness in our students’ learning. I am proud to represent Clark College in this endeavor.” Chatfield will accept her award at a ceremony during the QM Connect Conference Nov. 5-8 at the Radisson Blu Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. She has been asked to speak about what the award means to her.
“I’m diligently working on my speech,” Chatfield said. “My aim is to inspire others to leadership in eLearning and to recognize Clark College as being a leader, itself, in this field.”
Chatfield has served in higher education for 34 years at eight institutions. She has worked at Clark College since January 1995. She has taught part-time in person and online. She has served full-time in the eLearning and Instructional Design department since 2006.
About Quality Matters
Quality Matters is a global organization leading quality assurance in online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. It provides a scalable quality assurance system for online and blended learning used within and across organizations. QM certification marks on courses or programs means they have met QM course design standards or QM program review criteria in a rigorous review process. Learn more at here.
