Penguin fans packed the stands at Clark College’s softball field on May 2, gathering not just to cheer on their team but to celebrate a legacy. The afternoon dedication of the newly named Raines Softball Field brought together athletes, alumni, friends, and family, including many there to support Wilma Raines.

Clark College Athletics, Clark College Foundation, and members of the broader college community joined together at the Women’s softball field to recognize the contributions of the Raines family. The field was named in honor of Wilma Raines in memory of Jim Raines and his daughter Jami (Raines) Shogren, devoted supporters of Clark softball who left a lasting mark on the program. Wilma Raines, Jim’s widow and Jami’s mother, attended the ceremony, surrounded by heartfelt tributes and shared memories.

The Raines Family Legacy

Jim Raines, who passed away in 2018, devoted his life to empowering student athletes and helping ensure the success of Clark College’s softball program. Prior to his passing, he arranged for significant support to maintain the softball field and foster community sports opportunities.

Alums of Clark College, Jim and Wilma, also funded scholarships for student athletes, including one in memory of their daughter, the Jami Raines Memorial Scholarship.

Jami (Raines) Shogren was a standout softball player, following in her father’s footsteps as a catcher. The couple established student athlete scholarships in Jami’s honor after her death in 2008.

During the dedication ceremony, Calen Ouellette, CEO of Clark College Foundation, reflected on the deeper meaning behind the field’s new name.

“This isn’t just a moment to name a field,” Ouellette said. “It’s a moment to honor a legacy—a legacy of leadership, of belief in women’s athletics, and of deep investment in the future of our community.”

Ouellette spoke to the lasting impact of the Raines family, highlighting their decades of support for Clark College. “Wilma Raines and her late husband, Jim, have been pillars of support. Wilma understands something powerful: investing in your local community college isn’t simply an act of generosity—it’s an act of belief. Belief in opportunity. Belief in education. Belief in the power of young people to change the future.”

He went on to describe the symbolism of the field itself. “Thanks to a generous gift from the Raines family, this field will forever stand as a tribute—not only to Jim and their daughter Jami’s memory—but to every student-athlete who dreams bigger because someone believed in them. Fields like this aren’t just places where games are played. They’re places where confidence is built, where leadership is forged, where young women see they are worthy of investment and celebration.”

“Wilma’s decision to give back to Clark College sets an example for all of us,” Ouellette added. “When you support your community college, you strengthen the economic engine, the cultural spirit, and the social fabric of your entire region. Wilma, we are humbled by your family’s vision and heart. The Raines name will forever be woven into the lives of every Penguin who steps onto this field. Today and every day moving forward, Raines Softball Field will stand as a symbol of what’s possible when one family says, ‘Yes, I believe in them.’”

The Foundation presented Wilma with a painting of her husband and daughter standing on a softball field. The artist is Clark art professor Grant Hottle.

Laura LeMasters, Director of Athletics, presented Wilma with a commemorative Penguins softball jersey and a softball stamped with the field dedication date.

Holding the jersey, Wilma said, “I’m very humbled. My husband and daughter played on this field when it was a city league field. Thank you for showing up. I know it was in respect for Jim and Jami and me.”

LeMasters spoke about being introduced to Jim and Wilma Raines and understanding the depth and dedication their family brought not only to Clark, but to Clark Athletics. Jim Raines was a founding member of the Penguin Athletic Club that helped raise funds for the department to create improvements across all programs and was a member of the Hall of Fame committee. LeMasters worked with Wilma, managing the Jami Raines Memorial Scholarship.

LeMasters added, “The Raines family is deserving of having their name forever a piece of Clark College, Clark Athletics, and Clark softball. I want to thank everyone for attending this event as we officially name the softball field at Clark College the Raines Softball Field. With perfect timing, today’s game is the first game with our brand-new scoreboard, forever memorializing the Raines family. It is my pleasure to invite Wilma to cut the ribbon and formally dedicate this field in her family’s name.” 

Then Wilma stood between LeMasters and Oulette. Together, they held a massive pair of ceremonial scissors and cut the ribbon.

LeMasters said, “With that, we officially name this field the Raines Softball Field. Wilma, thank you so much.”

Five of the student-athletes are recipients of the scholarship named in honor of her daughter, Jami. As Wilma walked off the field, the softball team ran onto the field and warmed up for the Clark College vs Centralia College game.

2024-2025 student-athlete recipients of the Jami Raines Memorial Scholarship

• Ashley Griffith
• Zoey Mikkelsen
• Sophia Lawrence
• Tessa Treesh
• Gabriela Ventura

Penguin assistant softball coach Chloe Blehm was a recipient during her time here as a student-athlete in 2018-19.  

About Clark College Foundation

Clark College Foundation (CCF) is an independent, self-governed nonprofit that partners with Clark College to improve higher education access, student success, and community engagement. In the 2023-2024 school year, CCF distributed $1.6 million in scholarships, special awards, and financial support to hundreds of students. The Foundation contributed $4.8 million in total support to the college that same year.

About Clark College Athletics

The Clark College Athletics Department will enrich the greater community and the lives of student athletes by instilling in them a lifelong enjoyment of sports and physical activity.  With a commitment to diversity, integrity, and academic achievement, we provide a competitive and high-quality range of sports programs that focus on learning teamwork and on student success.

Learn more

• Clark College Foundation: https://clarkcollegefoundation.org/
• Clark College Athletics: https://clarkpenguins.com/
• Read more about the Raines family’s legacy at Clark College here
• Read Jim Raines’ obituary here
• View more photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCcJtW

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley

Led by Clark automotive professor Dannie Nordsiden, the automotive department welcomed nine students from CFA de la Mobilité, a vocational training center in Strasbourg, France.

Over several days, these high school-aged students toured Clark’s 14,000-square-foot automotive facility, met with faculty, staff, and local students, and gained firsthand insight into the college’s innovative “Dealer Ready” apprenticeship programs.

When Mike Godson, former head of the program, pulled out the textbook he wrote, Hybrid, Electric and Fuel-Cell Vehicles, the visiting students laughed in recognition. They use that textbook, too, all the way in France. They were extra excited that they now got to meet the man behind the words.

The visiting students, all in their final year of study at CFA de la Mobilité, are enrolled in a specialized auto training program. They were accompanied by two instructors: Roxane Adler, who leads the International Apprentice Mobility program and teaches history and literature, and Mikael Osterstock, an automotive maintenance instructor.

The CFA de la Mobilité group is on a 10-day tour of the Pacific Northwest. “The most valuable element was meeting Dannie, who welcomed us so well,” said Adler. “We sincerely hope to see him again and develop a wonderful partnership with Clark College.”

Exploring Hands-On Learning at Clark

On Wednesday morning, Professor Nordsiden accompanied the group to several local partner dealerships. There, the students had the opportunity to speak with professional technicians about careers in the automotive field and learn more about Clark’s unique approach to hands-on training. The “Dealer Ready” model allows students to earn income and gain work experience through paid internships while completing their degrees.

During their visit, the students also learned that Clark’s automotive programs are structured as apprenticeships, requiring students to work part-time in a professional repair setting while attending three days of in-person instruction in the college’s labs each week. This hybrid model ensures students apply classroom knowledge in real-world environments throughout the Vancouver-Portland metro area.

CFA de la Mobilité also has a similar partnership with Renault preparing students for careers with the international automotive manufacturer. 

Here’s what our French students have to share from their visit:

• The American diagnostic system is different because “it has more details and provides more detailed instructions.” The visiting students enjoyed practicing on the vehicles and troubleshooting together.
• The workshops are “larger and different, especially in terms of equipment like the wheel balancer.”
• What they enjoyed most was the human interaction, “both the instructors and the students were very welcoming—with whom we loved talking to and working with.”

“This visit reflects Clark’s ongoing commitment to global collaboration and career-focused education,” said Nordsiden. “This cultural exchange aligns the college’s general education competencies, ‘Civic and Global Consciousness,’ with our classes, by providing a look into our trade from another lens. In short, it allows our world to get a little smaller—and our knowledge a little broader.”

About CFA de la Mobilité

Located in the Parc des Forges in Strasbourg, the CFA de la Mobilité is a training institution with a mission to contribute to the development of vocational professions. Since 2023, this institution has been providing training to adult apprentices and trainees from vocational certificates to advanced technical certificates (BTS) in the automotive sector. CFA also has a Professional Automotive Electromechanical Technician training program with Renault.

Learn more about CFA de la Mobilité at www.cfamobilite.fr.

About the Clark College Automotive Technology Department
With a program history that spans more than 40 years, Clark College’s Automotive Technology department has received community recognition for producing top-tier automotive technicians and for its focus on hands-on learning and partnerships with dealerships that include Toyota, Dick Hannah, and Audi.

Learn more about Clark’s Automotive Technology programs at www.clark.edu/cc/auto.  

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley

On a sunny spring evening this past Friday, May 2, Clark art students, faculty, and Foundation staff gathered at Art at the Cave for the opening of “The Day After Tomorrow: Art and Mentorship at Clark College”. It’s a benefit exhibition supporting the College via the Foundation through the sales of exhibited works.

The exhibit, organized by the Foundation, the Art Department, and Art at the Cave under the Arts@Clark initiative, explores the relationship between mentors and mentees.

How Faculty and Students Worked Together

Faculty and student artists were paired to work in parallel over the past several weeks. The gallery then displayed the art side by side in the gallery. For most of the students, this was the very first gallery exhibition of their work.

Gabe Parque, one of the faculty members, said, “I like to see what the students are interested in then guide them… Alex is very good at taking my advice or not.”

Alex Frederickson, Gabe’s student mentee, laughed at the observation and said that of all the faculty members they’ve worked with, Gabe’s instructional style works the best for her.

Another faculty mentor, Kendra Larson, shared that her collaboration with student Hana Lowenthal involved ‘a lot of texting.’ She noted that they share a similar creative process—producing a large volume of work, then selecting the best pieces to exhibit.

How Arts@Clark Made it Happen

Ruth Wikler, Clark College Foundation’s inaugural Director of Arts Programming, Partnerships, & Philanthropy, worked with gallery owner Anne John to design the event. She said, “Through my role at Clark College Foundation, I have the privilege of helping bridge College and Community through the arts in ways that are both innovative and inspiring… This effort has been more than a year in the making, and it has come to fruition through a unique collaboration.”

She added, “The exhibit’s focus on mentorship—pairing faculty with students—beautifully reflects Clark’s mission and the transformational power of arts education. Witnessing the impact of this work come to life at Friday’s opening was an unforgettable moment of shared joy and pride.”

Organizers shared, however, that the show is only “the first of many collaborations between Clark College Arts programs, Clark College Foundation, and the community of Southwest Washington under the new Arts@Clark initiative.”

About Arts@Clark

Arts@Clark is a new initiative that unites Clark College’s arts programs, the Clark College Foundation, and the Southwest Washington community through the arts. Stay tuned for exciting events coming in summer and fall 2025.

About Art at the Cave

Art at the Cave is a gallery owned by artist Anne John. Located in downtown Vancouver just steps from the library, the gallery is community-centered and beyond rotating gallery exhibits, hosts a variety of arts programming, including a poetry open mic, collage nights, meditation sessions, and more.

Art at the Cave partners with a nonprofit each year to put on an exhibition and donate part of the profits. This year, that beneficiary was the Foundation.

Come Visit the Exhibit Through May 31

The exhibit will be on display through the rest of May.

Art at the Cave
108 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98660
https://artatthecave.com/

Gallery hours:
Tuesday – Thursday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday – Saturday from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Photos: Clark College/Carly Rae Zent

Congratulations to Clark College’s Surveying and Geomatics team who earned top honors at a prestigious national competition held over spring break, taking first place at the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) 24th Annual Student Competition.

Accompanied by Professor Brian Miyake, six Clark students traveled to Silver Spring, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., to compete against 25 academic teams from across the country. Clark College was the only school representing Washington or Oregon—and the competition marked the college’s first-ever entry into the event.

Clark’s first-place Surveying & Geomatics team:

• Robert Clapham, Class of 2026
• Eli Deschand, Class of 2025
• Rebecca Dunphy, Class of 2025
• Trevor Geivett, Class of 2025
• Brian Hankins, Class of 2026
• Milad Sadegi, Class of 2026

Clark’s team received support to attend the competition from the following:

• Land Surveyors Association of Washington
• Minister & Glaeser Surveying. Inc.
• PBS Engineering and Environmental 
• Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon
• S & F Land Services
• Westlake Consultants, Inc. 

“I am so proud of our Clark College students and their outstanding performance in this national competition. Most of the students had never visited D.C. before, so it was a completely new place for them to practice their surveying skills amongst so many historical sites,” Professor Miyake said. “The team showed exemplary professionalism, teamwork and survey ability in timed events and in the local D.C. community, while representing our state and college with pride and confidence.”

The competition consisted of one day of monument scavenger hunt and one day of technical field exercises–with students utilizing historical and modern survey instruments to complete tasks. A course was laid out on Capitol Mall between the Washington Monument and the World War II Memorial.

Day 1: Monument Hunt. The first portion of the competition was a staged scavenger hunt.

• A list of D.C.-area monuments were assigned a point value and provided the day before the event.
• Monuments farther away or more logistically challenging were assigned higher values due to the risk of finding fewer of them.
• Monuments selected are older and are significant to the history of surveying in the area.
• Teams were released from the hotel in 30-minute increments and had six hours to complete their task. Teams were provided Metro public transit cards. No other mode of transportation was allowed. Teams had to stay together.
• Scoring: Teams accumulated points based on the point values of the monuments visited.
• Teams proved they reached the monument by taking a photo with a timestamp or a group photo in front of the monument. Extra points were provided for social media posts with those photos using #NSPS and #YSN.

Day 2: Measurement Exercises. The second portion of the competition was a four-part timed exercise to evaluate students’ technical ability while requiring some knowledge of historical concepts. Transportation and equipment were provided.

1. Route layout: Students were asked to layout a route using a baseline and plans provided using a Trimble Robotic Total Station. Performance was graded on the accuracy of calculated points versus plan and amount completed in time allotted.
2. Traverse: Students were asked to perform a four-sided traverse with a chain and compass. Performance was graded on the following criteria: closure, accuracy of leg distances and accuracy of internal angles.
3. Triangulation: Students were asked to complete a triangulate exercise of an unknown position from two to three known positions with a theodolite. Performance was graded based solely on the accuracy of the missing variable and calculating the area between the theodolite stations and the unknown position.
4. Boundary reconnaissance: Students were asked to calculate a series of points given any number of information that one might find on a deed/plat and utilize those in locating specific real-world points utilizing a Leica GPS unit. Performance was graded on the following criteria: Accuracy of calculated points vs plan and amount completed in time allotted.

About Surveying and Geomatics

Surveying and Geomatics involves the accurate assessment, measuring, and plotting of land and water boundaries for development projects that include buildings, roads, and bridges. Clark’s program uses state-of-the-art land surveying equipment and techniques to prepare students for entry-level work in government and private sector roles.

Learn more

• Surveying and Geomatics at Clark College
• National Society of Professional Surveyors 24th Annual Student Competition

Dozens of children—from toddlers to teens—took over Clark College’s main campus on April 24 for Take Your Child to Work Day 2025. This annual national tradition, now over 30 years strong, offers children the opportunity to imagine their future careers, explore the world of higher education, and learn more about the work their parents do every day.

At Clark, the event is more than a fun day off school—it’s a chance for young minds to engage with science, art, technology, and wellness through interactive activities across campus. For many, it also sparks early interest in college and the diverse career paths available in higher education.

Hands-On Learning and Big Smiles

The day’s main activities were hosted in Gaiser Student Center, where children moved from table to table, building, creating, and discovering. Some highlights:

• Security made 91 future penguin ID badges that children proudly wore
• Jasmine, daughter of Gabriela Sanchez-Ronceros (Transitional Studies), knelt on the floor to pet Oso, the therapy dog.
• Finn and his mom, Alyssa Montminy (ODEI), got creative with Lego bricks.
• Asher, supervised by his aunt, Jenifer Rivera (Financial Aid) painted a cookie – and later showed off his bright blue lips and tongue after eating it!
• Scarlett and her father, Daniel Rogers (Foundation), worked together to build a platonic solids 3D shape at the STEM Engineering table.
• Oliver, son of Cath Bush (Student Life), gently cradled empty mason bee cocoons during a guided tour of the STEM bee garden, proudly sharing them with others.

The main event was held in Gaiser Student Center. For two hours, children explore the world of higher education at Clark with these fun, interactive activities including:

• Bee walk – Discover native pollinators on campus
• Meet Oso – Hang out this friendly therapy dog and learn about our Basic Needs Hub
• Platonic solids – Create and build geometric 3D shapes with our Engineering department
• Cookie Decorating – Paint and snack on delicious cookies made by Clark’s bakery
• Fidget making and mandala coloring – Fidget toys, mandala coloring, mindfulness activities and snacks for all age groups provided by our Counseling and Health Center
• Oswald the penguin – Snap a photo with Clark’s official mascot

Campus-wide Adventures:

Beyond Gaiser hall, families were invited to explore the wider campus through self-guided activities:

• Security desk: Kids got official-looking ID badges. Security made 91 badges!
• Bookstore: Played a Penguin guessing game and collected free lanyards for their new “badges”
• Welcome Center: Starting point for a scavenger hunt
• Beacock Music Hall: Tried out different musical instruments
• Cannell Library: Enjoyed story time in the reading corner
• McClaskey Culinary Institute & Bakery: Kid-friendly lunch and treats including snack boxes, mac and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and more.
• Archer Gallery: Explore visual art exhibits
• Japanese Gardens: Wandered through peaceful paths and fountains

About Clark’s Take Your Child To Work Day

National Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day is an annual event held on the 4th Thursday of April where parents are encouraged to bring their children to work for one day. The event is designed to help children learn about different careers and gain exposure to the workplace.

Take Your Child to Work Day at Clark is a celebration of learning, family, and the joy of curiosity. As future penguins explored the campus, they left with full bellies, wide eyes, and maybe even a new dream or two.

Clark College director of Guided Pathways and Partnerships, Rhianna Johnson, was among the community leaders honored during Leadership Clark County’s A Night of Impact event on April 23 in Gaiser Student Center. A 2021 graduate of the program, Johnson continues to make a lasting impact on students and the broader community.

Tina Krause, executive director of Leadership Clark County, said: “Rhianna was nominated and selected by our board of directors to receive the Community Impact Award. This is an award given to someone who is making a difference in our community both in their job and volunteer efforts. Rhianna was chosen because of her infectious positive attitude, her initiative within the community, and her dedication to the students at Clark College. She was the perfect candidate for this award. We are so excited to honor her.”

LCC praised Rhianna on its Facebook page as a “fierce advocate for student success and has dedicated her career to education and workforce development in Clark County… She has an amazing way of understanding people, her positive attitude is infectious, and Clark County is a better place because of Rhianna.”

Johnson’s community service includes:

• Rooted School in Vancouver board of directors
• Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce education and workforce committee
• Clark County Youth Consortium
• National Job Corps Association board of directors

“Participating in Leadership Clark County was a natural fit for my passion for community development. The program connects current and aspiring leaders in Clark County to learn more about the different agencies and processes that make our community run,” said Rhianna Johnson. “In my career, I have focused on contributing to education and workforce development programs that improve economic mobility for our neighbors, which is a major component of a thriving community. I greatly appreciated working with others who are also trying to improve our small corner of the world.”

Leadership Clark County honored these LCC alumni who have made an impact on the Clark County community:

Community Impact Award: Rhianna Johnson, Clark College

Volunteer Impact Award: Scott Johnson, Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency (CRESA)

Advancing Equity Award: Clarissa Hightower, Southwest Washington Equity Coalition

The organization also awarded an emerging leader between age 21-30 who demonstrates strong leadership skills and a commitment to service within the Clark County community. The recipient will receive full tuition to participate in the LCC Class of 2026.

Emerging Leader Award: Maggie Bernetich, Council for the Homeless

Founded in 1993 by a group of community leaders, Leadership Clark County (LCC) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan civic leadership program. Our mission is to develop effective leaders to enrich a thriving community.

Leadership Clark County offers a nine-month leadership development program that focuses on topics that impact the community, including education, economics, social services, and more. With over 800 alumni and growing, LCC’s graduates serve our community as nonprofit board members, civic group leaders, business leaders and elected officials.

Learn more: https://www.leadershipclarkcounty.com/

Two Clark College students were recognized for their outstanding academic achievement and community service at the 28th annual All-Washington Academic Team ceremony, held April 24 at South Puget Sound Community College in Lacey.

Seth Stigall Barranco and Anton Vlasov represented Clark College as members of the prestigious All-Washington Academic Team, a statewide program that honors high-achieving students from the state’s 34 community and technical colleges. The program is part of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges.

They join more than 80 scholars from across Washington State who are pursuing transfer or workforce pathways and demonstrating excellence both in and out of the classroom.

Darci Feider, advisor of the Clark College PTK chapter, Alpha Sigma Pi, said, “I’m incredibly proud of Seth and Anton for being named to the All-Washington Academic Team. Their hard work and commitment to learning have made them outstanding representatives of Clark College.”

Seth Stigall Barranco

Anton Vlasov

All-Washington Academic Team Ceremony

Each student received a medal and a $250 scholarship from Key Bank. They also are eligible for additional scholarships from private sponsors and transfer scholarships for four-year colleges and universities.

Program sponsors:

• Washington Association of Community and Technical Colleges
• Washington State Association of College Trustees
• Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges
• Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society of two-year colleges

Scholarship sponsors:

• KeyBank
• Washington State Employees Credit Union
• Washington State Association of College Trustees

Learn more

• All-Washington Academic Team
• Phi Theta Kappa (PTK)
• Clark College PTK chapter, Alpha Sigma Phi

At Clark College’s Spring Students of Color Luncheon on April 17, Vice President of Information Technology Sudha Frederick delivered a powerful and personal message on the role of mindset in achieving success. Drawing from his upbringing in Hyderabad, India, and a life shaped by academic rigor and faith, Frederick shared six core attitudes that have guided his journey: gratitude, curiosity, integrity, concern, humility, and a solution-focused mindset.

Hosted by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Multicultural Student Affairs, the free, public event brought students, staff, and community members together for meaningful conversation and a shared meal.

Frederick spoke about growing up in Hyderabad, India and being the son of a professor at several Christian seminaries. He was influenced by both academic rigor and a deep sense of faith.

In his message titled “Developing Powerful Attitudes for Success: Attitudes and Aptitude,” he reflected on how each of these attitudes has played a transformative role in his personal and professional life:

1. Gratitude – “An attitude of gratitude can change your outlook and your life,” he said, encouraging students to appreciate both small wins and major milestones.
2. Curiosity – Frederick encouraged students to choose curiosity over complacency by being open to learning new things, understanding the “why” behind the “what,” discovering new perspectives, and solving problems creatively.
3. Integrity – He emphasized the importance of growing organically, avoiding shortcuts, and building trust through consistent, honest actions.
4. Concern – Frederick called on students to lead with empathy by choosing an attitude of concern by listening actively, responding with thoughtfully, connecting meaningfully with others, and contributing positively to your community.
5. Humility – He shared how humility has helped him remain grounded, learn from others, and stay receptive to growth.
6. Solution/Resolution – Finally, “be a problem solver, not a problem creator,” he advised, reminding students that focusing on solutions empowers them to take action and create change.

President Edwards who attended the luncheon, reflected on the impact of Frederick’s message in her weekly email to faculty and staff:

“Sudha shared that gratitude, curiosity, integrity, concern, humility, and a focus on solutions/resolution will enhance your chances of success. Thank you to Sudha for sharing this important message with our students, and to ODEI for hosting the event.”

Q & A with Sudha Frederick

Q: When did you know that you wanted to work in Information Technology? Did you experience an “aha” moment during which you realized IT would be your career path?
SF: I had the opportunity in my late teens to work at an e-commerce company when I moved to Finland. I started off with assembling computers and I loved it.

Q: In what ways has embracing these six powerful attitudes impacted your life?
SF: It has resulted in strong relationships with my peers and supervisors. I have been blessed in so many ways. My faith is what drives me to live by all of these attitudes.

Q: During your presentation you showed a photograph of a motorcycle. What type of motorcycle is it?
SF: I ride an Aprilia 1100 RSV4.

About Sudha Frederick

Sudha Frederick joined Clark College in April 2023 as the Vice President of Information Technology. Sudha brings 15 years of experience in the field of information technology and 7 plus years in serving in leadership positions in several non-profit organizations. He has a master’s degree in business administration from George Fox University, a master’s degree in ministry management from Multnomah University and a master’s in Sociology from

Madurai Kamaraj University. When away from work, he loves spending time with his family, church, playing the electric guitar, and riding his motorcycle.

In his VP role, Frederick is responsible for the organization’s technology vision and execution providing oversight of campuswide information technology activities, sponsoring IT committees, working with IT service units across campus, assessing current IT infrastructure and making appropriate recommendations and strategies to deliver timely and qualitative IT services across the University.

Sudha Frederick is passionate about building IT Teams to provide top notch IT services. One of his main focuses is to equip and empower his team to succeed by paying close attention to their natural potential and skillsets to set them up for success. He believes in transformational servant leadership.

Next ODEI Luncheons:

• Students with Disability Luncheon: Tuesday, May 13 at noon in PUB 161
• Queer Student Luncheon: Tuesday, June 3 at noon in PUB 161

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

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

For the first time in years, the Sakura Festival finally got its perfect spring day. The weather was warm, the cherry trees were bursting with fluffy pink blossoms, and not a single dark cloud dared to show up.

Drawn by sunshine and drifting petals, a large crowd of Clark students, employees, and community members of all ages filled the Japanese Friendship Garden. Beneath the canopy of blossoms, they celebrated spring, friendship, and hope, set to the graceful sounds of a traditional Koto performance by Yukiko Vossen, accompanied by flutist LeeAnn McKenna.

Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards welcomed visitors and remarked that it was the first time in her five years at Clark that Sakura conditions had been perfect.

Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnery-Ogle shared the history of Clark’s cherry trees and remembered former Clark President Bob Knight and former Vancouver Mayor Royce Pollard. Both men were instrumental in building the sister-city relationship with Joyo, Japan, and honoring that relationship every year in the Clark College cherry grove during Sakura. The mayor expressed sadness that both Knight and Pollard passed away recently, but their legacy will live on.

McEnergy-Ogle said, “We lost both Bob and Royce recently. And while we mourn the loss of two community champions, we celebrate their legacies in events and moments like today. And we can renew our commitment to carry forward the relationships and causes that blossomed under their stewardship.”

Consul General Ken Todorikiof the Japanese Embassy in Portland and Clark student Nicole Vara Madriz, who studied abroad in Japan, also addressed the crowd.  

Dr. Edwards shared the history of Clark’s Royce E. Pollard Japanese Friendship Garden and its significance to our college and the greater community. She also shared life lessons from Sakura.

Sakura’s Life Lessons

1. Embrace Impermanence
A powerful reminder that nothing in life is permanent.  When you accept impermanence, you learn to live more fully and appreciate what you have while it lasts.

2. Find Beauty in Simplicity
Cherry blossoms are not extravagant or overly complex. Their beauty lies in their simplicity. This teaches us that we don’t need grand gestures or material possessions to experience joy.

3. Let Go with Grace
When cherry blossoms fall, they do so gracefully, creating a beautiful and peaceful scene. This is a lesson in letting go.  Letting go doesn’t mean giving up; it means trusting that something new and beautiful will emerge.

4. Celebrate New Beginnings
Cherry blossoms are often associated with spring, a season of renewal and rebirth. They remind us that after every ending comes a new beginning. No matter how difficult or dark a period may seem, there’s always the promise of fresh starts and brighter days ahead.

After sharing these life’s lessons, Dr. Edwards added, “Today, as we celebrate spring, the spirit of international friendship, and the spiritual significance of these cherry blossom trees, let us remember to practice mindfulness, simplify our lives, be grateful for small joys, and embrace change.”

She thanked Clark’s grounds crew for working hard to maintain the college campus. Then she added, “We’re proud that Clark College can be a place of beauty and reflection for everyone in Vancouver. And I know that both Royce Pollard and Bob Knight would be proud of that legacy, too.”

Next, Clark College Treble Ensemble, directed by Dr. Jacob Funk, performed songs including “Sakura,” a traditional Japanese folk song depicting spring, the season of cherry blossoms.

Butterfly Garden

An outdoor butterfly garden near Anderson Fountain was a new and very popular addition to Sakura Festival. A long, steady line of students, Clark employees, and community members—many of them parents with young children—waited patiently for an opportunity to spend five minutes in the netted enclosure staffed by Student Life.

Once inside the net structure, visitors quietly interacted with 150 painted lady butterflies. Holding swabs soaked in nectar, visitors enticed the butterflies to perch and feed from their hands. Many of the visitors were young children, delighted in the up-close experience to marvel at these delicate, fluttering creatures.

In Japanese culture, butterflies carry rich symbolic meaning, frequently appearing in traditional art, literature, and aesthetics. They often represent transformation, the beauty of nature, and the fleeting nature of life.

After the butterfly garden closed, ASCC student volunteers gently collected the butterflies. Beheshta Eqbali, a member of Clark’s Phi Theta Kappa honors society, cradled a butterfly in each hand, pausing to admire their bright orange wings before placing them in a mesh enclosure for transport.

Gaiser Student Center

When the outdoor portion of the ceremony concluded, hundreds of people moved indoors to Gaiser Student Center, where guests enjoyed many activities and presentations, including:

• Cherry blossom cookies made by students in Professional Baking & Pastry Arts
• Display tables included a tea ceremony, Ikebana (flower arranging), Japanese calligraphy, Japanese Club, and Kendo Club
• Video tribute to former Mayor Royce Pollard and former Clark President Bob Knight

Cultural Performances

• Video tribute to former Mayor Royce Pollard and former Clark President Bob Knight
• Haiku presented by the Japanese Club
• Nostalgic traditional Japanese Dance “Fuji Musume” (Wisteria Maiden)
• Adorable art shared by Clark College Child and Family Study’s, kimono-clad children 
• Energetic show by Takohachi drum group 

Did You Know…?

Tucked between the vibrant blooms and quiet pathways of Clark College, the Royce E. Pollard Japanese Friendship Garden is more than a scenic spot – it’s a living symbol of international friendship and local pride.

• Celebration of Friendship:
  Dedicated during the 2012 Sakura Festival, the garden honors former Vancouver mayor and Clark College trustee Royce E. Pollard, whose vision helped forge the sister city bond between Vancouver and Joyo, Japan. His legacy now blooms each spring in a sea of cherry blossoms.

• A Landscape of Meaning:
  Every curve and stone in the garden tells a story. The winding path mirrors the mighty Columbia River, connecting people and places across our region. Sculpted earth mounds reflect the soft rise and fall of nearby hills, while a striking stone sculpture from Japan pays tribute to the mountains that define our skyline.
• Roots of Generosity:
  The garden’s iconic cherry trees are two special gifts. In 1990, Mr. John Kageyama of America Kotobuki donated the first 100 Shirofugen cherry trees. Nearly three decades later, Mr. Tatsuo Ito of SEH America extended that legacy with 200 Somei Yoshino trees, ensuring the blossoms will inspire generations to come.

More information

• Learn more about the history of our Sakura Festival here.
• Read The Columbian’s 2025 Sakura story here.
• More photos can be viewed here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjC9pui
• The lifespan of a painted lady butterfly is 14 to 28 days. Learn 10 facts about painted lady butterflies here.

Photos: Jenny Shadley/Clark College

Clark College hosted more than 350 high school students from across five counties for its annual Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs Showcase on April 15.

Students from grades 9 through 12 explored Clark’s degrees and programs and learned about a wide range of CTE programs offered at Clark, gaining insight into potential career pathways and educational opportunities.

Sponsored by Guided Pathways, this year’s event included attendance from 25 high schools across seven Clark County school districts. Participating schools outside of Clark County drove all the way from Stevenson (Skamania County); Glenwood, Klickitat, and Lyle (Klickitat County); Kalama (Cowlitz County); and Mossyrock High School (Lewis County).

Some of the student engagement included:

• Professor-Chef Aaron Guerra led a group of high school students through the cuisine kitchens at McClaskey Culinary Institute. He said, “I’m an example of living your dream. I followed my heart, followed my passion, worked hard, and built a great career.” He added, “It takes hard work to be successful in life—and in the kitchen.”
• Across campus in the Diesel Technology lab classroom, Professor Jeff Rush told students: “Learning electrical is a long path. But it can open doors to a great career in diesel technology.”
• In the STEM Building, engineering professors Tina Barsotti and Carol Hsu led students in an engineering challenge to design and build a helicopter-like device that can carry cargo. Caleb Gross from Ridgefield High School and Daeannamae Beckey from Columbia River High School teamed up and used ChatGPT to find detailed plans for building their copter.

Gaby Posteuca, a Clark admissions recruiter who helped coordinate the event, said, “What a turnout we had for our CTE showcase this year! It was gratifying to see hundreds of students who were engaged in the workshop activities and asking questions. I am confident that this event sparked the high school students to consider their future career and how Clark College can help them attain their career goals.”

Exploring Career Pathways

Each high school student chose two workshops to attend from a list of offerings, including observing CTE classes in action. These included allied health programs Health Information Management, Medical Assisting, Nursing, Pharmacy Tech, and Surgical Technology; Automotive Technology, Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Management, Diesel Technology, Welding Technology, Mechatronics, Engineering, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, Cuisine Management, Professional Baking and Pastry Arts and Early Childhood Education and more.

Workshops in Gaiser Hall included financial aid and scholarships, admissions, career exploration, Running Start, and more.

All over campus, high school students met Clark faculty, learned about specific programs, experienced demonstrations, and participated in hands-on activities.

Finally, the students gathered in Gaiser Student Center for boxed lunches and a Resource Fair, where they made connections and asked questions of Clark staff from Admissions, CTE Dual Credit, Financial Aid, Tutoring Services, MESA, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and more. Gaiser Hall was buzzing with staff assisting students to plan for their future careers.

Participating Clark County High Schools

• Battle Ground: Battle Ground High School, Prairie High School
• Camas: Camas High School, Discovery High School, Hayes Freedom High School
• Evergreen: Evergreen High School, Henrietta Lacks High School, Heritage High School, Legacy High School, Legacy-Open Doors, Mountain View High School
• Hockinson: Hockinson High School
• Ridgefield: Ridgefield High School
• Vancouver: Columbia River High School, Fort Vancouver High School, Hudson’s Bay High School, Skyview High School, Vancouver Flex Academy
• Washougal: Washougal High School

Participating Schools Beyond Clark County

• Cowlitz County: Kalama High School
• Klickitat County: Glenwood High School, Klickitat High School, Lyle High School
• Lewis County: Mossy Rock High School
• Skamania County: Stevenson High School

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish