Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards delivered the annual State of the College address on February 14 in a packed Gaiser Student Center. The event originally was scheduled for January but was postponed due to a week of snow and ice. The space was filled with faculty, staff, students, members of the college’s board of trustees, Clark College Foundation staff and board members and community supporters.  

Emma Sturm, president of the Associated Students of Clark College (ASCC) kicked off the event and gave a report on increased student participation in college clubs and ASCC’s efforts to increase student engagement in campus activities.  

“It’s working!” Emma said. “More than 200 students participated in our ‘Barbie’ movie night.” 

Ray’s story 

Student and veteran Ray Jackson shared his Clark journey. After completing his U.S. Navy service, Ray enrolled at Clark in 2010, but he dropped out due to mental health issues, later diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. After working various jobs, he realized he needed more skills to be successful. His vocational and rehabilitation counselor at the Veterans Administration suggested he return to Clark College. 

So, in 2019, a decade after he’d started at Clark, Ray returned to Clark and earned an AAT degree in Machining Technology in June 2021, but realized he didn’t want to work in a machine shop with loud noises.  

Ray didn’t give up. He leaned into his interest in IT and earned his CompTIA A+ IT certification, an entry-level IT credential, which propelled him to return to Clark and earn an associate in applied technology degree in Network Technology in December 2023. Ray wanted to go further still. He returned to Clark yet again winter term 2024—this time to pursue a bachelor of applied science degree in Cybersecurity.  

Along Ray’s journey, he navigated college studies and parenthood with the help of several Clark College student support services, including the Veterans Center of Excellence, Disability Support Services, Advising Services, Financial Aid, Penguin Pantry, Counseling and Health Center, Child and Family Studies, and more. Ray thanked a long list of Clark programs, departments, and people for helping him be successful. 

Accomplishments and looking ahead 

During her speech, President Edwards announced that the college’s equity-centered strategic plan was approved by the college’s board of trustees last fall and provides a framework for all the college does. The new strategic plan is centered on students—to educate, empower, and elevate them to achieve their personal and professional goals. It also underscores a commitment to student success, empowerment, and equity. 

Community partnerships and philanthropy are essential for supporting student and college needs. President Edwards expressed gratitude for the ongoing support of Clark College Foundation and the community. Notably, a $1 million gift from the Cowlitz Indian Tribe will launch the Clark College Innovation Fund that will address pressing needs and drive innovation. Clark College Foundation has awarded more than $85 million over the past 50 years. This year alone, the foundation has awarded $2 million that directly assists more than 550 students.  

In addition, Clark has disbursed $24.5 million in financial aid from other funding sources, including state and federal grants and loans and community scholarships.  

Recently, the college was awarded a $2.2 million Title III Strengthening Institutions grant from the U.S. Department of Education primarily for increasing student completion rates. 

The college budget and its financial sources focus on supporting Clark College’s commitment to provide affordable education. Clark offers more than 100 degrees and certificates in over 70 programs, including 5 bachelor of applied science degrees. The annual tuition is $4,907 for 45 credits (during 3 terms). And 70% of Clark students transfer to four-year universities. 

Enrollment has increased by more than 10% this academic year compared to the 2022-23 academic year. Approximately 8,683 students enrolled during the Fall and Winter terms, translating to 5,932 full-time equivalent students. Increased enrollment is expected to impact the budget positively, reducing the need to use the fund balance as the college had to do in previous years during and immediately following the pandemic. 

New programs, degrees, and expansion of academic offerings are driven by community needs and workforce demands. The college will add a Civil Engineering Technology and Construction Management program, a Food Service Operations certificate, and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree that was recently approved on February 1. 

The programs under development include:  

• Clean Energy Technician program that will expand the college’s existing Mechatronic Technology and Automotive Technology programs to meet high-demand jobs. 
• Surgical Technician program will be the first in Southwest Washington. Pending final approval in May, graduates of the two-year program will earn an Associate of Applied Technology (AAT) degree in Surgical Technology.  

Additionally, the Advanced Manufacturing Center is currently under construction at the college’s Ridgefield location at Boschma Farms. Scheduled to open in fall 2025, this center will serve up to 1,200 students per term.  

Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives remain top priorities at Clark College. Achievements include increased diversity in hiring and ongoing professional development initiatives. In addition, the college organizes The Northwest Regional Equity Conference, now in its fifth year. The conference plays a pivotal role in promoting equitable experiences for historically underrepresented students and employees. 

Looking ahead, reflecting on the college’s achievements, President Edwards expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of faculty, staff, and the community. As Clark College looks toward the future, she said it remains committed to student success, expanding program offerings, and strengthening community partnerships. Clark College continues to be a beacon of opportunity and excellence in the region. 

Dr. Edwards said, “In a prior State of the College address, I drew inspiration from Michelle Obama’s memoir Becoming to frame our work here at the college. In her book, the former first lady emphasizes that becoming is an ongoing journey, not a fixed destination. I share her belief that maintaining the status quo leads to stagnation, and meaningful change requires breaking out of familiar patterns. She also said that ‘it is possible to have our feet planted in reality but pointed in the direction of progress. We may live in the world as it is, but we can still work to create the world as it should be.’” 

She said, “Today, I want to recognize our ongoing journey of becoming a beacon of hope, opportunities, and transformation rooted in social justice while providing excellent and equitable education.” 

Dr. Edwards added, “This journey hasn’t been without its challenges, including the ongoing effects of a global pandemic, declines in nationwide enrollment, and two years of substantial resource reductions, all while expanding services to meet the evolving needs of our students.” 

Then people gathered around for coffee, tea, and delicious heart-shaped cookies made by students in the Professional Baking and Pastry Arts program especially for the State of the College address on Valentine’s Day. 

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley
View more photos from the event on our Flickr Page.

International Day organized by Clark’s International Programs was a roaring success on February 13.

A line of preschoolers from Child and Family Studies walked into Gaiser Student Center with their teachers and immediately expressed delight at the array of activities happening around the room—including drummers, a flying dragon, martial arts, and belly dancing. The children seemed eager to try everything.

Alumni shine

Three Clark alumni shared their expertise with the Clark community during the event:

• Artist Christian Barrios was on hand at the unveiling of the mural “Coming Together for Art and Peace.” He designed the mural. It was painted by Clark students, staff, and faculty during a community mural project on campus during International Education Week last November. Barrios had taken the mural back to his studio to add outlines and a black background. He finished it with a protective coat. Later the mural will be installed near the coffee shop in Joan Stout Hall.
• Author Moses Korir read aloud his new children’s book, Moses and the Impossible Piano that tells his story of growing up in a village in Kenya, encountering a piano for the first time, and then embarking on a life-changing educational journey to the United States to follow his dream of becoming a music teacher.
• Belly dancing instructor Dr. Ona Parker taught a basic belly dancing lesson with about three dozen enthusiastic students, faculty, staff, and preschool children moving their hips to the music. Dr. Parker was an international student at Clark College and later was a faculty member.

In addition, students from McClaskey Culinary Institute and the Professional Baking and Pastry Arts program prepared empanadas, falafel, salad rolls, and salted dulce le leche blonde brownies. People waited in a long line to sample the delights.

Other highlights

• A video of Clark College international students talking about their experience
• Kendo Dojo demonstration by Camas Kendo Dojo
• Chinese drummers and dragon demonstration by Oregon Chinese Coalition · Information about the Study Abroad program
• Henna tattoos by Glitter Ruby’s
• Making origami penguins
• Much more

About International Programs

International Programs provides support services and opportunities to foster a global perspective and cross-cultural competence for Clark College and the communities it serves. The program also offers an intensive English Language program. During the 2023-24 academic year, Clark College has 57 international students. Learn more here.

Chef Earl Frederick has cooked elegant meals for discriminating diners—from a former president to Club Med movers and shakers.  

But the Clark Cuisine instructor’s roots started with humble, downhome cooking. As a boy, he learned to cook alongside his grandmother, Susie Lovely Lewis in her kitchen in small town Ellenville in upstate New York. 

Chef Earl shared his story—and his delicious food—with Clark students, faculty, and staff at the Winter Student of Color Luncheon on February 6. The free event is presented each term by Clark’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Multicultural Student Affairs. It provides opportunities for students to be encouraged by inspiring stories, meet faculty and new friends, consider different career paths, and identify community resources and potential mentors. 

Chef Earl designed the luncheon menu to represent Black History Month—with a nod to his beloved grandmother and her specialties: fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, and red velvet cupcakes. To that, he added some of his favorites, including pork loin and Jambalaya with Cajun sausage.  

The delicious meal was prepared by Clark’s Cuisine students under the watchful eye of Chef Earl, who emphasizes cooking from scratch with no shortcuts. His students smoked pork loin and made Cajun sausage.  

Cooking with grandmother 

While appreciative Clark diners savored the meal, Chef Earl shared family photos and told his story. A child of separated parents, he divided his time between the big city of Yonkers, New York, and small-town Ellenville. Family is important to Chef Earl. His grandmother had 13 siblings, so he was surrounded by aunts, uncles, and cousins.  

One uncle got him interested in sports, encouraged him to play basketball, and got him to consider college. Another uncle modeled growing your own food and being sustainable.  

Because his father was a preacher, he says he grew up in the church. “I’m a preacher’s kid,” he said. “Church wasn’t just Sunday for me. It was every day—and all day on Sunday.” 

In the church kitchen, he helped his grandmother prepare meals for the congregation.  

He said, “At one point, I realized I was the only boy helping in the kitchen.” 

But he didn’t care. He liked to cook. And he was good at it. 

He shared an old photo of the church choir of his youth. He said, “All of those people never made it past sixth grade. On her deathbed, my grandmother told me to get an education. No one could take it away from me.” 

He did follow his grandmother’s advice to get an education, but his educational journey included bumps in the road and detours. 

Navigating rough patches 

When he was in high school, like many teens, he made some choices that did not please his family, particularly his beloved grandmother. Eventually, he was missing so many credits that he would not be able to graduate with his class. 

He was introduced to the local alternative school and told: “Either you don’t graduate, or you go here.” 

So, he enrolled in Ulster BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services) Career & Technical Center. One of the selling points was its culinary program.  

“This place saved my life,” Chef Earl said. 

Chef Earl holds a baking and pastry diploma from Oregon Culinary Institute, a certificate in hospitality administration from University of Hawaii at Manoa, an associate degree in culinary arts from Johnson & Wales University, and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Warner Pacific University. He also is a certified American Culinary Federation executive chef. 

After graduating from Johnson & Wales University at age 19, his first job was working in the kitchens at Walt Disney World. Throughout his career, Chef Earl has worked in kitchens in Intel, Club Med, and Nike, and taught culinary skills to Job Corps students and The Portland Kitchen, an after-school culinary and job skills program. 

Paying it forward 

Chef Earl has volunteered his expertise to many nonprofits focused on food, including serving on the board of directors for Vancouver Farmers Market.  

In 2017, Chef Earl returned to the alternative school where he entered the pathway to become Chef Earl. He visited the culinary arts classroom, shared his expertise, and led a food preparation demonstration. It was a full-circle experience for him. He advised students to never destroy relationships they could benefit from later. Read about his visit here. 

In 2022 he was named a NextLevel Postsecondary CTE Leadership Fellow through the Association for Career and Technical Education. 

Chef Earl has been teaching Cuisine students at Clark College since 2016. What he enjoys the most about teaching at Clark is “engaging with the students. I also enjoy when they come back and visit and tell me how successful they are!”  

His grandmother would be proud of his achievements. 

Most memorable meal 

Although he has prepared countless delicious meals, one of the most memorable was when he was a chef at Club Med Crested Butte, a ski resort in Colorado.  

“I had the opportunity to cook for former President Jimmy Carter, then with the Carter Foundation. I made Duck à l’Orange, a classic French dish,” he said. “I still remember that day. Jimmy Carter told me it was the best he’d ever tasted!” 

Chef Earl’s words of wisdom 

• “Food is my life. Bringing people together. Breaking bread together. Community.” 
• “When I was young, I went through a time when I was getting into trouble. My grandmother said, ‘You represent my name. Don’t put any bad ju-ju out there with my name.’” 
• “On her deathbed, my grandmother told me to get an education. No one can take that away from you.” 
• “I’m a preacher’s kid. Church wasn’t just on Sunday for me.” 
• “There’s nothing you can do about the past, but you can change the future.” 
• “Never burn bridges because you never know if you need to cross them again.” 
• “Don’t just talk about it. Be about it.”  

Advice to students 

“Building relationships is important. You never know how that person can help you in the future.” 

“Be persistent. I applied for more than 150 scholarships in the days before the internet. I applied for many scholarships where I thought I wouldn’t have a chance to get it—but I got it because I was the only student who applied. I got 53 scholarships. I applied for this teaching job at Clark College three times before I was hired. Don’t give up.” 

Fun Facts about Chef Earl 

• He writes and performs spoken word poetry 
• Favorite spoken-word poet: Earl Simmons aka DMX 
• Favorite dish to make: Jamaican curried oxtail with rice and peas  
• Favorite food to eat: New York pizza or fresh pasta 
• Favorite restaurant: Cochon in New Orleans, LA 
• Go-to comfort food: Cast-iron fried chicken, braised collard greens, rice and cornbread 

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

Thanks to the student musicians, band directors, chaperons, family, and community members who attended the 60^th Annual Clark College Jazz Festival from January 25-27. Nearly 60 middle school and high school jazz bands performed and delighted the appreciative audience—from toddlers to seniors. I’m pleased to announce the 2024 Jazz Festival results. 

The top award of the competition is the Dale Beacock Memorial Sweepstakes trophy, named after the Clark College band instructor who brought the jazz festival to our campus so many years ago.  

Top award: 2024 Dale Beacock Memorial Sweepstakes trophy: Bothell High School Jazz 1, Bothell 

View the Results

Middle School Silver Division Jazz Ensemble: 

• 1^st place: Beaumont Middle School, Portland 
• 2^nd place: Chief Umtuch Middle School, Battle Ground 
• 3^rd place: Eckstein Middle School, Seattle 

Outstanding Middle School Jazz Musicians: 

Aspire Middle School, Lacey 

• Dylan Her  
• Nate Richardson 

Beaumont Middle School, Portland 

• Marilyn Ruthruff 
• Iris Ruthruff 
• Nate Lyon 

Chehalis Middle School, Chehalis 

• Ben Mittge  
• Maxton Hill 

Chief Umtuch Middle School, Battle Ground 

• Gavin DeMoss 
• Eli Lennick 

Eckstein Middle School, Seattle 

• Emily Chen  
• Ellie Bailey  
• Margo Cox  
• Oren Sternberg 

Hockinson Middle School, Brush Prairie 

• Oliver Armstrong 

Laurin Middle School, Battle Ground 

• Cody Halley 
• London Coy 

Liberty Middle School, Camas 

• Rowan Armintrout 
• Charlotte Summers 
• Katie Evert 

Skyridge Middle School, Camas 

• Elliot Foster 
• Daniel Liu  
• Jacob Weinstock 

South Whidbey Middle School, Langley 

• Lhamo Doryang 
• Judah Macarro 
• Dante Churchill 

Vancouver School of Arts and Academics, Vancouver 

• Danica Jahr  
• Zach Pan 

View Ridge Middle School, Ridgefield 

• Lizzy Bloom 

Wy’east Middle School, Vancouver 

• Tyson Ruark 
• Henry Ormson 

A Division—Outstanding Jazz Ensemble:      

• 1^st place: South Whidbey High School, Langley 
• 2^nd place: Seton Catholic High School, Vancouver 
• 3^rd place: Tukes Valley Middle School, Battle Ground 

A Division—Outstanding High School Musicians: 

Adna Middle/High School, Adna 

• Jordan Stout  
• Myra Medina 

Columbia High School, White Salmon 

• Anna Zendt – Columbia High School, White Salmon 
• August Peterson – Columbia High School, White Salmon 

Concordia Christian Academy, Tacoma 

• Danny McCarthy 
• Jason Nguyen 

Henrietta Lacks High School, Vancouver 

• Jeremy Solis  
• Graham Rank  

La Center High School, La Center 

• Kristin Dunlap 
• Dominic Stub  
• Aleks Chygasov 

Seton Catholic High School, Vancouver 

• Joseph DiPrima 
• Parker Zaemann 
• Kyler Dixon  
• Stephen Samwel 

South Whidbey High School, Langley 

• Olin Nelson 
• Corbyn Orchard 

Tukes Valley Middle School, Battle Ground 

• Lincoln Toland 
• Jackson Pierce 
• Basil Middlemas  

Woodland Middle/High School, Woodland 

• Stacti Dore 
• Emma McCaullough  
• Sam Purcell  
• Harland Wakefield  

AA Division—High School Jazz Ensemble: 

• 1^st place: Hockinson High School, Brush Prairie 
• 2^nd place (tie): Richland High School Freshman, Richland 
• 2^nd place (tie): Lakewood High School, Lakewood 

AA Division—Outstanding Middle School and High School Musicians:  

Battle Ground High School, Battle Ground 

• Hayden McCarty 
• Chloe Kalson 

Bishop Blanchet High School, Seattle 

• Zandy Owens 

Columbia River High School, Vancouver 

• Preston White 

Heritage High School, Vancouver 

• Naomi Halbrook 
• Cynthia Reyes-Mendoza  
• Jocelyn Cole 

Hockinson High School, Brush Prairie 

• Thilo Kluth  
• Jack Smith  
• Levi Brown 
• Adam Haunreiter  
• Blake Bruning 

Lakewood High School, North Lakewood 

• Leo Sandoval  
• Isaias Fuentes-Palominos 

Richland High School, Richland 

• Henry Van Mason 
• Victor Zinchuk 

Ridgefield High School, Ridgefield 

• Michael Grove  

W.F. West High School, Chehalis 

• Amanda Linwood  
• Parker Morrison  

AAA Division—High School Jazz Ensemble:             

• 1^st place: Heritage High School Jazz I, Vancouver 
• 2^nd place: Bothell High School Jazz II, Bothell 
• 3^rd place: Battle Ground High School Intermediate Jazz I, Battle Ground 

AAA Division—Outstanding High School Musicians: 

Battle Ground High School, Battle Ground 

• Logan Gillespie  
• Janae Clark 

Bothell High School, Bothell 

• Christian Oversvee-Choi  
• Nathan Bardsley  
•  Sachita Kadievelu  
• Aliah Bragg 

Grant High School, Portland 

• Nathan Lauruhn 

Heritage High School, Vancouver 

• Gavin Williamson 

Kamiak High School, Mukilteo 

• Heidi Anderson  
• Ryan Jackson 

Ingraham High School, Seattle 

• Maggie Roth  
• Felix Lewis 

Lake Stevens High School, Lake Stevens 

• Allison Llubit  
• Mark Rodeheaver 

Prairie High School, Battle Ground 

• Kyle Davenport  
• Judah Bollock 

Richland High School, Richland 

• Cannon West  
• Tyler Hornell 

Skyview High School, Vancouver 

• Liam Purcell 
• Cadence Sempk 

Union High School, Camas  

• Cooper Givens  
• Kieran Iyer  

Vancouver School of Arts and Academics, Vancouver 

• Sam Arslanian  
• McKelvey Brewer 

AAAA Division—High School Jazz Ensemble:          

• 1^st place: Bothell High School Jazz I, Seattle 
• 2^nd place: Lake Stevens High School Jazz I, Lake Stevens 
• 3^rd place: Grant High School Jazz I, Portland 

AAAA Division—Outstanding High School Musicians: 

Battle Ground High School, Battle Ground 

• Andie Townsend 
• Carter Stafford 

Bothell High School, Bothell 

• Dylan Reed  
• Thomas Holmes  
• Aaron Mamula 
• Nicholas Ang 

Buchanan High School, Clovis, Calif. 

• Kono Tiyaamornwong  
• Will Damrose  
• Trevor Nix 

Edmonds-Woodway High School, Edmonds 

• Gavin Bunbury  
• Addisyn Johnson 

Grant High School, Portland 

• Sasha Burns  
• Xander Buck  
• Oli Rangle 

Ingraham High School, Seattle 

• Henry Goss  
• Nathan Doyle 

Kamiak High School, Mukilteo 

• Ethan Park  
• Ian Park 

Lake Stevens High School, Lake Stevens 

• Phineas Ruji  
• Jack Santos 

Richland High School, Richland  

• James Brady  
• Henry Rice  

Skyview High School, Vancouver 

• Alejandro Santana  
• Sean Malcom  

Union High School, Camas 

• Izzy Cryan  
• Evelyn Lo  

Would you like to hear from some of the 57 international students who are enrolled at Clark and hear about their experiences at Clark? 

Do you enjoy learning about the art, music, dance and martial arts of other cultures? 

Does your mouth water when you consider sampling delicious food from all over the world?  

Would you like to view the finished Clark College mural, “Coming Together for Art and Peace” and meet the artist, a Clark graduate, who designed it? 

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, consider joining Clark’s International Programs for an International Day celebration geared for the entire family. 

What: International Day celebration presented by Clark’s International Programs 

When: Tuesday, February 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.  

Where: GHL 150 – Gaiser Student Center 

Who is invited: Clark College students, faculty, staff—and the community 

Activities: Free, family-friendly fun to learn about and celebrate cultures worldwide. It also is an opportunity to celebrate international education and exchange and to learn about the college’s International Programs department.  

Event webpage: Learn more here.  

Associate Director of International Programs Jody Shulnak said, “Bringing folks together to learn about a variety of cultures and celebrating global exchange are highlights of this annual event. It’s also an opportunity for international students and those in our ESL program to engage and share about their home countries. It’s a meaningful event all around.” 

International Day highlights 

• Unveiling the mural “Coming Together for Art and Peace” designed by artist Christian Barrios, a Clark College graduate. The mural was painted by Clark students, staff and faculty during a community mural project on campus during International Education Week last November. Barrios will be on hand to answer questions.  
• A panel of Clark College international students talking about their experience (video) 
• Kendo Dojo demonstration 
• Belly dancing demonstration by Clark alum, Ona Parker 
• Information about the Study Abroad program 
• Sampling of food from around the world 
• Henna tattoos by Glitter Ruby’s 
• Chinese drummers and dragon demonstration by Oregon Chinese Coalition 
• Story time by Clark College alum, Moses Korir, who will read his new children’s book, “Moses and the Impossible Piano” 

Schedule of Events

Time	Topic
11:05 a.m.	Welcome
11:05 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.	Art + Peace mural unveiling and remarks
11:15 a.m. – 11:25 a.m.	International student panel video
11:30 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.	Belly dancing demonstration
11:50 a.m. – 11:55 a.m.	Raffle drawing and announcement
12:00 p.m. – 12:20 p.m.	Chinese drummers, Oregon Chinese Coalition
12:20 p.m. – 12:30 p.m.	Dragon demo, Oregon Chinese Coalition
12:30 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.	Storytime: Moses & the Impossible Piano
12:45 p.m. – 12:50 p.m.	Raffle drawing and announcement
12:50 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.	TBD
1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.	TBD
1:20 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.	International student panel video
1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.	Kendo Dojo demonstration
2:00 p.m.	Closing remarks and final raffle draw

About Clark College International Programs 

International Programs provides support services and opportunities to foster a global perspective and cross-cultural competence for Clark College and the communities it serves. The program also offers an intensive English Language program. During the 2023-24 academic year, Clark College has 57 international students. Learn more here. 

I am excited to announce the next Archer Gallery exhibit, Afraid/Not Afraid, by Pamela Chipman (Portland) and Jan Cook (Seattle). This immersive photo-based art installation looks at gender and vulnerability. Please join us for the opening reception and artist talk (dates below). Exhibitions and art talks are free and open to the public. 

Exhibit title: Afraid/Not Afraid 
What: Immersive, photo-based art installation looks at gender and vulnerability 
Artists: Pamela Chipman and Jan Cook 

Exhibit dates: February 7 through April 25 

• Viewing hours: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. 
• Opening reception—with free pizza: Wednesday, February 7, noon – 2 p.m. 
• Artist reception and performance by Lyra Butler-Denman: Saturday, February 17, 2 to 5 p.m. 
• Artist talk (in person): Thursday, April 18, 2-3 p.m. 

Website: Archer Gallery (clark.edu) 

Exhibition Statement: 

Afraid/Not Afraid immersive photo-based art installation looks at gender and vulnerability. 

Afraid/Not Afraid examines how women live with an ever-present threat of violence and the feeling of being unsafe in their world. Gender violence, sexual stereotypes, and the portrayal of women in the media and popular culture feed and perpetuate this fear in our society. This collaborative photo-based installation explores vulnerability and the artists’ relationship to it as women. The work looks at the emotional side of this subject and how these forces shape the lives and behavior of women, often in subtle ways, that become ingrained and normalized as part of their worldview.  

In this immersive installation, the viewer becomes the voyeur, peeping through an exterior window of a house before entering the space. The exhibition combines projected images, large photographic fabric panels, and sound. The images reflect the relationship between being watched and objectified and how women present their identities to the world. The photographs and projections on semi-transparent layers combine and interplay as the viewer moves through the piece, building an intimate space for reflection. 

The artists Jan Cook and Pamela Chipman created this installation together in an artist residency in Portland, Oregon. They are white cisgender women whose own experiences and concerns with safety and consent propelled them to make this body of work. In confronting this underlying fear, they want to call attention to and to create discussion and change around these issues.  

Jan Cook is a Seattle artist who works with photo-based imagery to examine the ideas that run through our collective unconscious and tie us together in our humanity. Pamela Chipman is a Portland-based visual artist who explores themes of memory, domesticity, and femininity. She creates work that speaks to the history, strengths, and struggles of women in our culture. 

About the Archer Gallery and Clark Art Talks  

Archer Gallery serves the students and community of Clark College by exhibiting contemporary art in a not-for-profit educational setting. Archer Gallery exhibits work by nationally and internationally renowned artists and connects the Clark College community with accessible and diverse perspectives from the contemporary art world. Learn more here. 

Clark Art Talks serves the students and community of Clark College by hosting a monthly art lecture series. Distinguished artists and art scholars from around the country share their experiences related to their art practices and provide unique insights into their varied career paths and artistic techniques. 

Can you pass this quiz?

True or false:

1. Cavities (tooth decay) are the most common chronic disease of childhood, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
2. Tooth decay is preventable.
3. February is National Dental Health Month.
4. Clark College’s Dental Hygiene program holds a free dental care day for children in our community every February.

If you answered “true” to all the above questions, you are right.

Were you shocked that question #1 was true? Untreated cavities can cause pain and infections that could lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. Research shows that children who have poor oral health often miss more school and receive lower grades than children who don’t.

Please help spread the word about Clark’s free dental health clinic for children.

What: Free children’s dental health clinic
Who: Children ages 4 to 17
Presented by: Clark’s Dental Hygiene department
When: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Firstenburg Dental Hygiene Education and Care Center, Health Sciences Building
Cost: Free!
Make an appointment: Call the dental hygiene business office: 360-992-2158.
Address to navigate to Health Sciences building: 2232 E. Reserve Street, Vancouver
Closest parking: Brown Lot 1

The college’s dental hygiene students will provide free care under the direct supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists. Services will include cleanings, sealants, x-rays, doctor’s exams, fluoride, and select emergency treatments for children ages 4 to 17, regardless of insurance.

Kristi Taylor, program director of Clark’s dental hygiene department, said, “We are excited to offer our annual free children’s dental health day for children in our community between the ages of 4 to 17. If you have or know any children who would benefit from a free cleaning and exam, this would be a great opportunity for them. Call and schedule an appointment before the slots fill up.”

About Clark College’s Dental Hygiene program and clinic

The Clark College dental hygiene program is nationally recognized for excellence and highly regarded by dental professionals in the region. The Firstenburg Dental Hygiene Education and Care Center, located on the college’s main campus, offers affordable dental care for more than 2,000 patients annually. The center features modern technology and equipment to ensure quality care for patients. Patients in the Vancouver/Portland area receive high-quality, low-cost care from Clark College dental hygiene students under the direct supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists. Available time for patient treatment varies from term to term. Clinic days are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Learn more about the clinic.

Photo: Clark College/Nick Bremmer

If you’re a fan of jazz, you’re in for a treat, thanks in large part to the dedication of Dr. Doug Harris and the intrepid Shelly Williams, who bring the Clark College Jazz Festival to our campus every year. 

Clark College will host the 60th Annual Clark College Jazz Festival in three full days of exhilarating big band jazz on Thursday through Saturday, January 25-27 in the Gaiser Student Center at 1933 Fort Vancouver Way.  

Middle and high school jazz ensembles from Washington and Oregon are scheduled to perform in addition to a new attraction, a ticketed fundraising concert by the Grammy-nominated The One O’Clock Lab Band^® from the University of North Texas on Wednesday, January 24. The Clark College Jazz Band will kick off the fundraiser event at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $22 if purchased online through Jan 22 and $25 (cash only) at the door. All proceeds from the festival will go directly to student scholarships. View ticket info. 

“We are so excited to present this year’s Clark College Jazz Festival, now celebrating our 60^th anniversary. We are adding new attractions to this year’s festival,” said Clark’s Director of Bands and Festival Director Dr. Doug Harris. “We are thrilled to present the University of North Texas One O’Clock Lab Band^® directed by Alan Baylock. This band is recognized as the preeminent collegiate big band in the world—and has held that distinction for decades. It will be a performance no jazz lover will want to miss.” 

Special festival performances by the Clark College Jazz Band under the direction of Dr. Harris:

• 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 25 
• 7:45 p.m. on Friday, January 26 with guest soloist Yamaha trumpet artist Allen Vizzutti  
• 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, January 27 

Another new event is that legendary trumpet player Allen Vizzutti will appear with the Clark College Jazz Band on Friday night. Harris said, “I first heard Allen when I was a freshman at the University of Florida and was amazed, as I’m sure our audience will be.” 

The three-day event will culminate with last year’s Beacock Award-winning band, Mountain View High School Jazz I, directed by Sam Ormson performing on Saturday night. 

Competition Highlights  

During this year’s competition, 56 middle and high school jazz ensembles from Washington and Oregon are scheduled to perform in this year’s competition with trophies presented to the top three jazz ensembles for middle schools and division A through division AAAA high schools.  

Individual outstanding musician awards will be presented at the end of each division’s preliminary competitions. On Saturday evening, the Dale Beacock Memorial Sweepstakes Award will be presented to one outstanding band selected from the entire festival.   

Dr. Harris said the event is not just a competition, but also a learning opportunity for the young musicians to participate in “valuable clinics from an outstanding group of jazz educators.” 

The clinicians are Dr. Nate Jorgensen, Director of Jazz Studies at the University of New Hampshire on Thursday, and Seattle-based Yamaha artist Allen Vizzutti on Friday. 

Overview – Clark College Jazz Festival

(Complete Jazz Festival schedule) 

• Special! Wednesday, January 24: The festival will kick off with a 7:30 p.m. ticketed fundraising concert by The One O’Clock Lab Band from the University of North Texas 
• Thursday, January 25: Middle school bands and Division A high school bands 
• Friday, January 26: Division AA high school bands  
• Saturday, January 27: Division AAA high school bands and Division AAAA high school bands 

Admission is $10 per day. Clark College students and children under 12 accompanied by an adult will be admitted free of charge.  

About Guest Artists   

Yamaha Artist Allen Vizzutti has performed in 70 countries and every U.S. state with notable artists and ensembles including Chick Corea, Doc Severinsen, NBC Tonight Show Band, Army Symphony Orchestra, Chuck Mangione, Woody Herman, New Tokyo Philharmonic, Budapest Radio Orchestra, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Leipzig Wind Symphony, and Slovenian National Orchestra. The Seattle-based musician is also a composer and recording artist. 

Nominated for seven Grammy Awards, The One O’Clock Lab Band^® from the University of North Texas jazz studies program is noted for its exceptional individual musicianship and tight ensemble performance. The band has performed throughout the U.S. and in 18 countries. The band also has performed at major jazz festivals, including Monterey, and at major jazz venues, including Birdland in New York City.  

About Clark College Jazz Festival   

Dr. Doug Harris has been director of bands at Clark College since Fall 2018. Previously, he was assistant director of bands at Western Kentucky University, director of bands at Santa Clara University and Southern Utah University and a high school band director in Florida. Harris received his Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Florida and his Master of Arts and Doctor of Arts degrees from the University of Northern Colorado. As a freelance trumpet player, Dr. Harris has performed with the Madison Scouts, Sacramento Mandarins, Teal Sound and Suncoast Sound Drum and Bugle Corps. He is an active clinician, adjudicator, composer, arranger, and transcriber.  

History of the Clark College Jazz Festival  

• 1962: The beginning: Hud­son’s Bay High School band director, Don Cammack, organized a one-day high school stage band invitational, the Southwest Washington Jazz Festival, for schools from Clark and Skamania counties.  
• 1962-1969: The festival was organized by Vancouver and Evergreen public schools. Fort Vancou­ver High School and Evergreen High School took turns hosting. In the early days, trophies were made by middle school band director Jack Ager, who constructed musician figures from miscellaneous hardware and car parts. 
• 1965: The festival grew to include bands from 8 high schools and 3 junior high schools. The program, called Jazz at the Fort, was directed by music educator Dale Beacock. 
• 1970: Dale Beacock, then band director at both Clark College and Fort Vancouver High School, held the invitational Clark Stage Band Contest for the first time at Clark College. This inaugural event hosted 17 high school jazz bands with preliminary competitions held in the Gaiser Hall dining area, with finals in the gymnasium. Beacock’s vision of a competitive jazz showcase for schools throughout Washington and greater Portland promoted the growth of the festival.  
• 1971: The festival grew to 32 bands held over two days.  
• 1976: The number of participating bands grew to 52, welcoming bands from Oregon and Idaho. 
• 1985: Chuck Ramsey became festival coordinator, a position he held for 22 years. He brought consistency to festival operations, increased student involvement, set the ground­work for the educational enhancement, leadership, teamwork, and a sense of ownership by Clark student volunteers.  
• 2008: Richard Inouye became festival director. His professional and educational experience brought a new dynamic by encouraging a focus on jazz education and using technology to promote community awareness, public support, and streamline festival operations.  
• 2012: Clark College Jazz Festival celebrated it’s 50th anniversary. Highlights included the Clark College Alumni Band directed by Chuck Ramsey featuring Clark band alumni from three generations of Clark band directors. Beacock and Ramsey were presented Legacy Sweepstakes Awards for their historic contributions to the festival.  
• 2013: The festival went international, welcoming two bands from Tsawwassen, B.C. 
• 2021-2022: The festival was on hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
• 2024: The 60^th Annual Clark College Jazz Festival welcomes 56 middle and high school jazz ensembles, more than 1,200 student musicians and more than 3,000 people during the three-day event.  

For Jazz Festival details, contact Shelly Williams, 360-992-2662 or sjwilliams@clark.edu 

Useful links: 

• Purchase Jazz Festival tickets here 
• University of North Texas’ The One O’Clock Lab Band^® (Jan. 24 fundraising concert) 
• Clinicians Nate Jorgensen (Thursday) and Yamaha Artist Allen Vizzutti (Friday) 
• 60^th Jazz Festival memorabilia merchandise 
• Donate to the Clark College Jazz Festival here 
• View the schedule for all Clark College Music Department 2024 concerts. 

Photos (unless noted): Clark College/Jenny Shadley

Two children sat on the floor of Gaiser Student Center and examined their treasures: a box of various toys and stuffed animals, a Star Wars coloring book, and a bag of clothing including pink pajamas with animals dancing across the fabric.  

All around the room, 51 large tables were laden with new or gently used gift items available for Clark students and their families to choose as holiday gifts—at no cost. All items were graciously donated by Clark faculty and staff.  Before the students arrived, everyone excitedly arranged their gift articles, trying to make room for new items on their assigned tables as more donated items arrived. 

Clark College hosted its first-ever Free Holiday Market for students and their families on December 6 from 3 to 5 p.m. in Gaiser Student Center. Hosted by faculty and staff, the event provided an opportunity for students and up to four family members to “shop” from new and gently used items at no cost to them.  

The event was sparked by Chef Alison Dolder, head of the Professional Baking & Pastry Arts program, who first had the idea to host a free student holiday market. The pandemic lockdown had dragged on for so long. As classes began meeting on campus again, she thought it would be fun to do something for the students. 

With inflation, skyrocketing prices for food, housing and other essentials, how would students have money left over to buy holiday gifts for their families, and maybe even buy a little something for themselves?  

Dolder explained, “I thought it would be great to get the students together on campus after so long away. But we couldn’t find any organization or group on campus that had the bandwidth to take on the event.” 

Later, Dolder shared her idea with her colleagues in Culinary: Fay Shorten, Lucy Winslow, and Stephanie Hall. They decided to get the event going themselves. When other departments heard about the event, they eagerly joined in.  

A gift for everyone 

A few minutes before the doors opened, the line of students and their families reached down the hall past the culinary kitchen and café. Clearly, people were excited about this opportunity to choose holiday gifts for their families—and even for themselves.  

The faculty and staff stood at their tables, ready to assist shoppers. Dolder stood behind a table. So did Dr. Edwards. They were joined by Tina Barsotti and Carol Hsu from STEM—and dozens of other faculty and staff at their own tables.  

The tables were piled high with classic board games: Scrabble, Jenga, Clue, Operation, Pictionary, and Mastermind. Other tables were stacked with jigsaw puzzles—from kid-sized to 2,000-piece puzzles that a family might spend several days putting together.   

Clothing racks displayed all types of clothing and coats, including shoes still in the shoeboxes. 

Other tables had kitchenware, household items, books, toys, holiday décor, and even propagated live plants and rosemary boughs. Some Clark employees shared their handiwork from their hobbies including sewing, knitting, crocheting, photography, and woodworking.   

Penguin Pantry was ready with 600 meals to distribute. 

The doors opened, and students and their families flooded in, ready to shop. In all, 195 student shoppers brought 198 guest shoppers, with almost 400 people shopping. 

Dolder added, “The students and families were so happy to be there.” 

Lucy Winslow, one of the event organizers, said, “It was so great to see our campus come together in support of students. It made me proud to be a penguin!” 

A student spied a pair of leather cowboy boots on a table and asked, “How much for the boots? And what size are they?” 

The answer: “One ticket. Size 8. Just polished with black shoe polish to bring out the shine.” 

She smiled. “I’ll take them. My sister will love these!” 

That kind of happy transaction happened again and again during the two-hour event. No money was exchanged. Only red tickets, which shoppers received at no charge when they entered the room.  

Before the event started, Dolder worried if the event would be successful. Would students come? Would they bring their families?  

“Looking around at everything on the tables, there was a moment of panic that these volunteers would have to take everything back if no students came,” Dolder said.  

She added. “At the end, there was nothing left! I think we need to have it again next year. It will be bigger and better. We had 51 tables—and could have used more! It far exceeded our expectations.” 

Ongoing opportunities to give to students: 

• Career Clothing Closet: Donate career clothing for students and new graduates starting their careers. Contact careerservices@clark.edu or call 360-992-2902. 
• WES Giving Tree: Donate new hats, gloves, scarves, hand warmers, socks, and throws for students and their families through January 5 in GHL 215. 

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

Archer Gallery opened The Stone Path, an exhibit featuring work by eight indigenous artists on November 15. The exhibit is presented by Art in Oregon. Viewing hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, except December 23 – January 1, and by appointment January 2-7. The exhibit is open through January 24, 2024. 

Previously, the exhibit was displayed at Gretchen Schuette Art Gallery at Chemeketa Community College in Salem, Oregon and Chehalem Cultural Center in Newberg, Oregon. 

“This exhibit is a unique opportunity to see the top-notch work of eight stellar regional artists and attend a variety of accompanying talks,” said Archer Gallery Director Kendra Larson. “My hope is that this exhibition is a powerful visual testimony to the strength of art in the Pacific Northwest, sheds light on a variety of topics that currently impact us all and will give voice to artists historically underrepresented.” 

Larson added, “This exhibit also represents a collaboration between Clark College, Art in Oregon, and Crows Shadow, which I hope turns into future friendships between the three institutions. I’m so pleased that the Clark College and Vancouver community can enjoy this show.”  

Exhibition statement 

The Stone Path is a traveling exhibition showcasing the work of Natalie Ball, Demian DinéYazhi’, Vanessa Enos, Ka’ila Farrell-Smith, Lillian Pitt, Wendy Red Star, Jeremy Red Star Wolf, and Marie Watt. Through their common connections as former artists in residence at Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts in Pendleton, Oregon and Oregon-based artists with Native American tribal heritage, this exhibition presents select permanent collection fine art prints from the artists’ residencies alongside artworks representing their studio practice. Curated by Art in Oregon’s Selena Jones, Owen Premore, and Tammy Jo Wilson. 

The Stone Path celebrates eight remarkable indigenous artists whose artistry expands our understanding of Oregon’s communities, cultures, and histories. The exhibition title references the flat stones used in lithography, a fine art printmaking process ingeniously represented in Crow’s Shadow Permanent Art Collection. During their residencies, artists work closely with CSIA’s master printmaker towards realizing limited-edition prints that strive to capture the artist’s unique vision through innovative augmentation and invention. CSIA residency prints are highly regarded and collected throughout the world. The exhibition will showcase additional art pieces from participating artists in complement and juxtaposition to their fine art prints. 

Artist Talks 

Archer Gallery offered thoughtful, insightful artist’s talks with Ka’ila Farrell Smith and Demian DinéYazhi’ on November 20 and 21 via Zoom. 

On the closing day of the show, join curators Selena Jones, Owen Premore, and Tammy Jo Wilson for The Stone Path exhibition curators’ walk-through at 1 p.m. on January 24 in Archer Gallery. 

Meet the Artists 

• Natalie Ball (Klamath/Modoc, based in Chiloquin, Oregon) 
• Demian DinéYazhi’ (Diné/Navajo People, based in Portland, Oregon) 
• Vanessa Enos (Walla Walla, Yakama and Pima heritage; enrolled in the Northern Cheyenne Tribe of Montana, based near Pendleton, Oregon) 
• Ka’ila Farrell-Smith (Klamath Modoc, based in Modoc Point, Oregon) 
• Lillian Pitt (Warm Springs Reservation; descendant of Warm Springs, Wasco [Watalas] and Yakama [Wishxam] people, based in Portland, Oregon)  
• Wendy Red Star (Apsáalooke/Crow, based in Portland, Oregon) 
• Jeremy Red Star Wolf (Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation; vice chair, CTUIR board of trustees; lives on the Umatilla Indian Reservation) 
• Marie Watt (Onödowá’ga/Seneca Nation of Indians, based in Portland, Oregon) 

About Art in Oregon 

Art in Oregon is a Black-led, statewide visual arts focused 501(c)(3) non-profit working to build bridges between artists and communities. The mission of Art in Oregon is to foster culturally rich regional communities through partnerships, advocacy, and investment in artists, businesses, educational spaces, and community spaces. Our goal is to build and sustain art patronage through pride in Oregon artists and pride in art ownership. We work to establish collaborative relationships with the common goal of increased visibility and access to art for all people. Learn more here. 

About Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts 

Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization formed in 1992 by local artists James Lavadour (Walla Walla) and Phillip Cash Cash (Cayuse and Nez Perce). CSIA’s mission is to provide a creative conduit for educational, social, and economic opportunities for Native Americans through artistic development. Crow’s Shadow has evolved into a world-class studio focused on contemporary fine art printmaking.  

Crow’s Shadow is located in the historic schoolhouse at Saint Andrew’s Mission on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation about 10 miles from downtown Pendleton, Oregon. Learn more here. 

 About the Archer Gallery and Clark Art Talks 

Archer Gallery serves the students and community of Clark College by exhibiting contemporary art in a not-for-profit educational setting. The gallery exhibits work by nationally and internationally renowned artists and connects the Clark College community with accessible, diverse perspectives from the contemporary art world. Learn more here. 

Clark Art Talks serves the students and community of Clark College by hosting a monthly art lecture series. Distinguished artists and art scholars share their experiences related to their art practices and provide unique insights into their varied career paths and artistic techniques.  

Exhibition photos: Clark College/Kendra Larson