Award-winning poet Paisley Rekdal captivated a packed audience at Clark College’s Winter Columbia Writers Series on January 30. Students, faculty, staff, and community members filled Gaiser Hall 213, eager to hear her share from her work West: A Translation—a compelling collection commissioned to honor the 150th anniversary of the transcontinental railroad. Blending poetry with multimedia storytelling, Rekdal’s work offers a powerful reexamination of history, migration, and identity.

Rekdal spent five years working on the project. Her research led her deep into railroad archives, where she found an abundance of histories celebrating the wealthy landowners and financiers behind the project. But stories of those laborers who built and worked for the railroad—the Chinese laborers, Black porters, and women who worked behind the scenes—were either absent or barely mentioned. Through her work, Rekdal seeks to restore their voices and reckon with the gaps in America’s historical narrative.

Rekdal said, “I’m half Chinese. I was aware of the history of the transcontinental railroad. I wanted to put the laborers of the railroad on the forefront.”

Countless Chinese who built the railroad with their sweat paid with their lives, but the railroad didn’t keep track of the number. Their stories are lost. When the two ends of the railroad were joined by the driving of the last spike on May 19, 1869, the work of the Chinese laborers was completed. Seen as a threat to the jobs of white laborers, they were no longer welcome in the U.S. and were denied a path to citizenship.

Rekdal talked about the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 that not only marginalized Chinese people but rounded up and detained them in a government-built detention center on Angel Island in San Francisco Bay, some for up to two years.

Rekdal said many of these incarcerated Chinese people carved poems on the walls of the detention center in their own language. In her book, she included one of these poems that elegized someone who had committed suicide while in detention at Angel Island. At the event, Rekdal shared other poems she wrote in response to the stories.

She said, “This whole project is based on footnotes, but I wanted it to be the primary story.”

Today Angel Island is a state park that includes U.S. Immigration Station Detention Barracks Museum, an historic building preserved to show the original carvings that the detained immigrants left behind. Now we can learn about those lost stories.

Learn more:

West multimedia project by Paisley Rekdal

West: A Translation book by Paisley Rekdal is available in the Clark College Library

Angel Island State Park including U.S. Immigration Station Detention Barracks Museum, an historic building preserved to show the original carvings that the detained immigrants left behind from 1910-1940. Rooms are staged to reflect detention conditions.

Immigration Station at Angel Island State Park It It was designed to process Chinese immigrants whose entry was restricted by the Chinese Exclusion Law of 1882.  

The Chinese Exclusion Law of 1882 was the first significant law restricting immigration into the United States.

About Paisley Rekdal

Paisley Rekdal is the author of four books of nonfiction, and seven books of poetry, most recently, West: A Translation, which won the 2024 Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award and was longlisted for the National Book Award. Her work has received the Amy Lowell Poetry Traveling Fellowship, a Guggenheim Fellowship, an NEA Fellowship, and various state arts council awards. The former Utah poet laureate, she teaches at the University of Utah where she directs the American West Center. Learn more about Paisley Rekdal here.

Next Up

All Columbia Writers Series events are free and open to the public. For more information email: creativewriting@clark.edu

Spring Columbia Writers Series: Chelsea Bieker: May 29 at 10:00 a.m., PUB 258A-C

Chelsea Bieker is the author of three books, most recently the nationally bestselling novel, Madwoman, a Book of the Month club pick The New York Times calls “brilliant in its depiction of the long shadows cast by domestic violence.” Her first novel, Godshot, was longlisted for The Center for Fiction’s First Novel Prize and named a Barnes & Noble Pick of the Month. Her story collection, Heartbroke won the California Book Award and was a New York Times “Best California Book of 2022.” Her writing has appeared in The Paris Review, Marie Claire UK, People, The Cut, Wall Street Journal, and others. She is the recipient of a Rona Jaffe Writers’ Award, as well as residencies from MacDowell and Tin House. Raised in Hawai’i and California, she lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and two children.

Fourth Annual Clark College Spring Writing Workshop: Saturday, May 31, PUB

The Clark College Writing Workshop is an annual creative writing festival. It is comprised of author readings and writing workshops and invites Clark students and the Vancouver and surrounding communities to come together to celebrate writing and practice craft. Workshop facilitators include renowned writers as well as Clark faculty.

About the Columbia Writers Series

The Columbia Writers Series has been a part of Clark College since 1988, bringing local, national and international authors to the college throughout the year. Writers who have visited Clark College through the series include Ursula Le Guin, Donald Justice, Sherman Alexie, Marvin Bell, William Stafford, Jamaica Kincaid, Gerald Stern, Carolyn Forchè, Natalie Diaz, Karen Russell, Jess Walter, Dana Spiotta, Mitchell Jackson, and many others.

Learn more at https://www.clark.edu/campus-life/arts-events/cws/ or email creativewriting@clark.edu

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley

The large, blooming gardens of native wildflowers that pop up each spring on Clark’s campus don’t happen by accident, but through careful maintenance by Bee Campus Project Manager Steven Clark, the Bee Committee, and the help of our community.

We need volunteers to sow wildflower seeds at several bee garden locations on campus on Thursday, February 13 and Friday, February 14. Consider it your Valentine’s gift to native bees and other pollinators.

Although the flowers from last year scattered their own seed, a couple gardens this year need re-tilling, which means we need to plant fresh seeds in a few spots. The seeds are sown now, in the winter months, so they can take root in the soil and grow.

If you wish to volunteer, wear shoes and clothes appropriate for muddy, chilly conditions and prepare to walk over uneven terrain.

• Thursday, February 13: Meet at the Japanese Garden fountain at 1:00 pm (https://maps.app.goo.gl/gWvN3oRPdQpbZ8QK8)
• Friday, February 14: Meet in front of Hanna Hall on the north side at 1:00 pm (https://maps.app.goo.gl/d29CJEfDQQEQ63uZ9)

Clark who coordinates the college’s Bee Campus initiative has led the college in planting native wildflowers, to make the campus more attractive to bees and other pollinators. These flowers and natural areas where bees can make nests and lay eggs are helping Clark establish this bee habitat.

Pollinators—including mason bees, bumblebees, butterflies, moths, beetles, flies, and hummingbirds are essential for the planet. They are responsible for the reproduction of almost 90% of the world’s flowering plant species and 30% of our food.

Depending on the weather, look out for flowers to start popping up in April with full bloom in mid-May.

About Bee Campus

In April 2023, Clark College earned certification as a Bee Campus affiliate, becoming the fifth college in Washington to earn that distinction. Clark joined 165 other college campuses and 179 cities across the country united to make their landscape attractive to pollinators.

Bee City USA and Bee Campus USA are initiatives of the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, a Portland-based nonprofit. Bee City USA’s mission is to galvanize communities and college campuses to sustain pollinators by providing healthy habitat, rich in a variety of native plants that are free of pesticides.

A Bee Campus USA affiliate is a college campus that includes a bee habitat. Clark College—and other Bee Campus USA affiliates—show that the built environment (such as campuses, neighborhoods, city parks, and even roadsides) can feature a thoughtful design that allows bees to thrive in shared areas.

Learn more:

• Clark College’s Bee Campus USA initiative
• Bee Campus USA
• Four simple ways to help pollinators

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley

The NERD Girls and GEEKs, an ASCC student program, hosted an “experiment social” on Tuesday, January 28 in the STEM Building Collaboratorium, inviting the Clark STEM community to come together to hang out and explore by doing hands-on science experiments. The student-led club is directed by professors Tina Barsotti and Carol Hsu.

At the social, attendees created stress balls, made wildflower seed paper, and “elephant toothpaste,” (using dish soap to trap oxygen gas bubbles and create a foam that looks like toothpaste). Some projects were more successful than others, but the students kept trying and approached the experiments in different ways to achieve better results.

Professor Barsotti said, “The best part of the social experiment was how it brought students together for hands-on experimentation—proving that failure is just part of the journey in science and engineering. One student thought they had made a mistake when making their stress ball, but upon completion, they realized it was exactly what they intended.”

According to its mission statement, the student program “strives to provide opportunities for diverse learners to achieve their educational goals by promoting social connectedness through peer support, volunteering, professional interaction, and mentoring. By providing these opportunities, the program encourages students to continue their path in the STEM fields.”

This mission can be summarized by one student’s answer to the question: “What do you like about the club?” The student smiled, pointed at her friend, and said, “Well, I met her.”

Clark NERD Girls and GEEKs hosts events throughout the year. Last December, they hosted the Second Annual Free Holiday Market that gives students and their families an opportunity to shop for holiday gifts for their families and themselves—for free. Read more about that here.

Learn more

NERD Girls posts about upcoming events on its Instagram. You can also reach out to Tina Barsotti and Carol Hsu for more information.

Photos: Clark College/Carly Rae Zent

Students gathered in the Penguin Student Lounge on January 14 for the Winter Queer Luncheon, an event designed to foster community, connection, and belonging. This term’s guest speaker, Caitlin Malvar (they/them), didn’t come alone—they were joined by their therapy dog, Oso, who has become somewhat of a Clark College celebrity.

Malvar, the Basic Needs Navigator in Clark’s new Basic Needs Hub, delivered an address titled “Be Where Your Feet Are.” Hosted each term by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the free luncheon provides a welcoming space for queer students and allies to come together.

About Caitlin Malvar

Growing up with two supportive and competitive parents who had played collegiate sports, Malvar’s life centered around playing basketball—including playing in high school and collegiate basketball at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.

But then the pandemic hit. All activities—including basketball—paused. Eventually, when activities slowly started up, Malvar left the team. They earned a master’s degree during COVID. Instead of a joyful commencement ceremony surrounded by classmates, family, and friends, they sat at a laptop and watched their name scroll down the screen.

Words of wisdom from Caitlin

• “Like all of you, COVID gave me downtime to reflect on what was important to me moving forward. After I graduated with my master’s degree, it was the first time that my life wasn’t planned by a basketball coach. I kept getting hung up on the idea that I have lived, breathed, and bled basketball for the last fifteen years of my life. How the hell would I do anything else? Am I anything else?”

• “Then I remembered I was a whole human being before basketball. Sure, my parents taught me to work hard, dedicate myself to my sports, and to win. With time and space to remember who I was before basketball, I remembered they also encouraged me to try new things, to appreciate the outdoors, to learn how to cook from scratch, and to be a great friend.”

• “During the next year, these were going to be the things I was intentional about reincorporating into my life.

With parental pressure to get a real-world job, Malvar decided that rather than move back home to Portland, Oregon to find work, they would stay in Flagstaff, a small city in the northern Arizona mountains. They got a barista job in a small coffee shop.

Malvar said, “In many ways, this small coffee shop gave me my life back.” Then they recited a long list of how their first post-college job impacted their life:

“What could have just been coffee turned out to be…

• Meeting people who would reignite my love for camping.
• Finding my first queer community.
• Trading lattes for freshly harvested vegetables to cook with.
• Discovering my furry best friend, Oso.
• Embracing creativity in new ways
• Mastering the art of pizza-making
• Learning how to live off the grid.
• Meeting the love of my life
• Finding friends who would visit us in Oregon, after we moved away.”

Malvar said, “Even now, I continue to learn that life is not a race. Life is not a competition. Life is not a game that you can win or lose.” And here’s a list of their lessons learned:

“For me, this life is about …

• Building a home with those that I love and trust.
• Gathering friends around a table, sharing endless bowls of soup.
• Learning how to make things with my hands.
• Taking Oso on new adventures so he can have new dreams.
• Embracing my queer self – loving who I am and who I am becoming.
• Becoming more than I ever imagined. And in so many ways, it feels like it’s only just starting.”

Malvar said, “Slowing down and being where my feet were was the single most important thing I did when I finished school.”

Then Malvar invited everyone to visit Oso and them in the Basic Needs Hub.

Learn more about the Basic Needs Hub:

Located at Gaiser Hall GHL 216Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.Contact: 360-992-2766 or email  basicneeds@clark.edu

• Basic Needs Hub Opens
• Why Basic Needs are Essential by Dr. Edwards

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

• Diversity Center, Gaiser Hall 214
• 360-992-2292 or email: diversity@clark.edu
• www.clark.edu/cc/diversity

Save the Date: Next DEI luncheons

• February 6 at noon: Students of Color Luncheon in PUB 161
• March 6 at noon: Students with Disability Luncheon in PUB 161

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

Clark College students considering a future in communication had a unique opportunity to connect with experts from Washington State University’s renowned Edward R. Murrow College of Communication. On January 23rd, the Clark College Communication Studies Department hosted a transfer panel and Q&A session in Gaiser Hall 205, giving students firsthand insights into bachelor’s degree pathways in the field.

Molly Lampros, communications studies professor, welcomed two special guests:

• Nanu Iyer, program director of the Murrow College of Communication at WSU Vancouver
• Imran Haider, director of online programs for the Murrow College of Communication at WSU

Lampros spoke about how Clark students who earn an associate of arts transfer degree can transfer to WSU, enroll in the Murrow College of Communication, and pursue a variety of degree options at the WSU campuses in Vancouver, Pullman, Everett, or the global (online) campus.

She told the students: “Ask questions to figure out how your career will continue in communication studies.”

Iyer started the program titled ‘Where Can Murrow Take You?’ by asking students to think broadly: “Where do we use strategic communications?”

A student replied, “I don’t know if this is where you’re going—but—everywhere?”

Iyer nodded. “Yes! Strategic communication is the brain behind every brand. Every field—including health care and government—needs people with communications skills.”

Haider agreed, “For me, having a communications degree has meant versatility. It allows you to open a hundred other doors that other majors don’t.”

He listed the variety of fields taught in WSU’s respected Murrow program: classes in journalism, advertising, public relations, and corporate communications. Then he added, “The classes are innovative. Exciting. What you’ll need in your career. These skills are flexible and versatile and have application in today’s communications world.”

A robust discussion followed, with Clark students asking questions to learn about the career opportunities they could pursue in communications studies.

“I was very pleased with the level of student engagement and thoughtful questions asked,” said Lampros. “Students were excited and grateful to meet program directors from different campuses, and they seemed enthusiastic. Several students chose to dress up for the event, and many made professional connections on LinkedIn immediately following the panel.”

During fall term, she took her Mass Media students to Murrow College at WSU Vancouver for a thoughtful workshop about misinformation and propaganda. Lampros, Iyer, Haider, and WSU Vancouver faculty member, Elizabeth Candello, spoke about the benefits of Clark’s associate’s transfer degree and its alignment with Murrow College. Lampros invited Iyer and Haider to make a presentation on Clark’s campus, and they agreed.

The Communication Studies department hosted a Clark-to-Portland State University transfer panel in 2023, but this was the first Clark-to-Murrow transfer panel event. It likely will not be the last.

“I’m always looking for ways to support my students in their transfer efforts and help them make connections to the workforce, which will set them up for success,” said Lampros. “It can be rare to find opportunities to build community outside of the classroom and I am happy to help bridge that gap for our students.”

She added, “Many of my students indicated their intention to transfer to WSU and expressed gratitude for the panel. An event like this underscores the importance of our collaboration with WSU and shows students that a transfer degree is accessible and approachable. This event also demonstrates the vast and diverse career paths possible with a degree in Communication Studies.”

Preparing to transfer

Clark transfer advisors Laura Arellano-Karki and Tasaday Turner attended the presentation at the invitation of Lampros.   

Turner, associate director of Advising and Student Success, said, “I really wanted to be there to support students and to provide information if needed.” She added, “It was great to hear how different people found themselves in a communication field and how that field is so very vast and broad.”

Turner reminded Clark students who plan to transfer to a four-year university: “Students should remember to apply early, get their financial aid forms completed, and submit their scholarship applications ASAP!”

Murrow College of Communication at WSU

Murrow College majors in strategic communication are offered at the Vancouver, Pullman, Everett, and global campus and include:

• Advertising
• Integrated strategic communication
• Public relations
• Risk and crisis communication

Murrow College majors in journalism and media production are offered at the Pullman campus only and include:

• Broadcast news
• Broadcast production
• Media innovation
• Multimedia journalism

These Murrow College minors are offered at the Vancouver and Pullman campuses:

• Communication
• Sports communication
• Health communication and promotion

Learn more

• Learn about the WSU Edward R. Murrow College of Communication here.
• Learn about Murrow College majors and minors here.
• Learn about Edward R. Murrow’s legacy here.

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley

Author and abolitionist educator Dr. Bettina L. Love closed out a week of events on campus that honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the National Day of Racial Healing. During the college’s annual MLK celebration presented by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the college community had opportunities to participate in three events designed to restore, educate, and empower.

Vanessa Neal, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, summarized the week’s events: “What an honor to host Dr. Bettina Love on our campus to complete our week honoring Dr. King. Dr. Love’s words were thought-provoking and for me, affirming.”

She added, “The 2025 MLK Celebration at Clark College is more than a series of events—it’s a call to action. Whether through restorative practices, insightful dialogue, or powerful keynote addresses, this week will leave you inspired to continue Dr. King’s work of justice and equality.”

January 21 – Sound Bath

In alignment with the National Day of Racial Healing, we began our journey with a restorative healing space—a sound bath—a healing session that prepared participants to engage in the week’s events. It was an opportunity to connect within and find the balance needed to pursue equitable outcomes.

Sound bath therapist Hiroko Hibbard from Healing Hado led two sessions in Gaiser Hall 213. As people entered the room, she invited them to find a comfortable position on a yoga mat, the floor or a chair.  She uses crystal bowls, gongs, and other sound-healing instruments to create a tranquil atmosphere.

Referring to a sound bath as “one of the great preventative medicines,” Hibbard explained that a sound bath combines the healing power of sound frequencies and vibrations with aromatherapy. Participating in a sound bath can help reduce stress, balance energy, and promote overall wellbeing.

“Everyone will experience the power of sound frequency,” she said. Then as people settled in and breathed deeply, the sounds began reverberating throughout the room.

If you’re curious about what a sound bath is, here’s a video of a sound bath.

January 22 – Book Discussion

Vanessa Neal led a thought-provoking discussion of Dr. Bettina Love’s book, Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal. The discussion preceded Dr. Love’s keynote address by exploring the historical and systemic barriers to educational equity and how we can envision healing pathways.

Tables were together to form a big circle in the Penguin Lounge, PUB 161 so that people could discuss some big ideas in Dr. Love’s book: telling your truth, white rage, erasure, school integration, reform and more.

Neal started by saying: “There’s not a closure piece to Dr. Love’s book. Accept non-closure. Be open to researching and learning on your own.”

Excerpts from the Book Discussion:

• “Why is truth telling so important to racial healing? Why is it important to center truth on racial healing?”
• “Our stories define us and how we interact with each other. Often, we make up stories about the person in front of us. When there’s space for truth, you realize you’re not the only one who experienced that.”
• “If we’re not speaking truth, whose life are we living?”
• “There was no space for Black children at school. They were actively erased.”
• “Erasure means I don’t acknowledge you as being human.”
• “When I think about erasure, I think of a pencil eraser. It takes deliberate, intentional effort to erase. It’s an engineering feat to erase—to dehumanize people.”

Vanessa Neal wrapped up the session by saying some progress has been made, but there is still so much work to be done. How do people do the work, but not get overwhelmed?

Neal asked, “So what is your action? What can you do? What will you do?”

Paraphrasing Michelle Obama, Neal said, “Do something. Pick something.”

January 23 – Keynote Presentation by Dr. Bettina L. Love

Wrapping up the college’s week of events honoring the legacy of Dr. King, Dr. Bettina L. Love spoke to an attentive audience in Gaiser Student Center. Dr. Bettina Love holds the esteemed William F. Russell Professorship at Teachers College, Columbia University, and is the acclaimed author of Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal, a New York Times bestseller.

In her keynote, Dr. Love delved into the struggles and possibilities of creating a future rooted in abolitionist teaching. She is the author of We Want to Do More Than Survive: Abolitionist Teaching and the Pursuit of Educational Freedom.

Abolitionist teaching is built on creativity, imagination, boldness, ingenuity, and rebellious spirit and methods of abolitionists to demand and fight for an educational system where all students are thriving, not simply surviving.

This event was open not only to the Clark community, but also to the greater community. Some educators had driven a distance to attend. One had taken a wellness day at work to attend.

Dr. Love provided insight into Dr. King’s work, beginning with his inspiring speech during the August 28, 1963, March on Washington and going up to the Poor People’s Campaign.

Excerpts from Dr. Love’s presentation:

• “Racism is a byproduct of capitalism and greed.”
• “Dr. King is saying for real justice, it’s about your values. If your values don’t change, what’s the point?”
• “Your fate is tied to another person’s fate. You don’t get to step out of this. We are entangled together.”

Dr. Love to college students: “You’re here not just to learn, but to be transformed by what you learn. If you don’t leave here with more critical thinking, more humanity, that’s a problem.”

Dr. Love quoted Dr. King:

“For years I labored with the idea of reforming the existing institutions of the South, a little change here, a little change there. Now I feel quite differently. I think you’ve got to have a reconstruction of the entire society, a revolution of values.” — Dr. King told journalist David Halberstam in April 1967

In Dr. King’s last book, Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community, he wrote: “A year (after the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965), the white backlash had become an emotional electoral issue in California, Maryland and elsewhere. In several Southern states, men long regarded as political clowns had become governors or only narrowly missed election, their magic achieved with a ‘witches’ brew of bigotry, prejudice, half-truths and whole lies.”

Resources – Learn more about:

• Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King at The King Center website
• The Poor People’s Campaign at the National Civil Rights Museum
• Dr. King’s last book: Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community
• Google’s 25 years in search: The Most Searched: A Celebration of  Black History Makers (video)
• Dr. Love’s website, including her books and learning tools
• Clark College BUILD Bookclub questions created for We Want to Do More Than Survive, read Library article

All photos: Clark College
More photos from the keynote are available to view on our Flickr page.

Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards was presented the Compass Award at “Rising Together,” the 15^th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast on January 20, MLK Day, at ilani Hotel and Resort in Ridgefield. The event is hosted by iUrban Teen.

The Compass Award is given to a person or organization who “encompasses equity as a north star.” A long-time educator with over 35 years of experience in higher education administration, Dr. Edwards found her niche in community colleges where she has witnessed the transformational power that education has in the lives of students and in the communities they serve.

Dr. Edwards said, “I am humbled to be recognized with a Compass Award at this event, and I look forward to continuing Dr. King’s vision through the college’s work. I hope everyone will find opportunities to contribute toward cultivating a more equal and just society to bring us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a beloved community.”

Clark College Foundation and Clark trustees and staff attended the event in support for Dr. Edwards and her equity work at the college.

The annual event celebrating Dr. King’s legacy featured:

• Compass Award presentation to Dr. Karin Edwards
• Keynote speaker Keyonda McQuarters, inspirational leader and wellness advocate
• Welcome by Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnery-Ogle
• Messages from spiritual leaders Pastor Joyce Smith and Pastor Matthew J. Hennessee
• Performance by Kings Return, Grammy-nominated a cappella group

iUrban Teen posted this message on its Facebook page: Join IUrban Teen as we honor Dr. King’s legacy with an inspiring morning of inspirational speakers, unity, reflection, and community, featuring Grammy-nominated, a cappella sensation Kings Return. Together, we rise to create a brighter future!

Gaiser Hall’s Student Center bustled with activity as hundreds of students, staff, and faculty gathered for Clark’s Winter Involvement Fair in the Gaiser Hall Student Center on January 15. The Student Involvement Fair, which is held at the beginning of every quarter, is an excellent way for students—particularly new students—to learn more about these programs, clubs, services, and opportunities.

Student Kasandra Wickstrom, a Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society member who is pursuing an environmental science degree at Clark, was one of the hundreds of students making connections with clubs, programs, and departments during the event.

She said, “This brightens the experience here at Clark. It’s not just classes and tutoring. It’s making connections with others. It really shows the college cares.”

At the event, she and other students had the opportunity to connect with student-led clubs and initiatives, such as the STEM Nerd Girls club, focused on empowering women in science and math programs. Students also connected with peers with shared interests—from learning about other languages and cultures to getting their writing and artwork shared in student publications (The Swift, The Iceberg, and The Phoenix).  

Clark College took the opportunity to inform students about wrap-around services. The library, tutoring, the Counseling and Health Center, and other student-facing offices hosted tables.

Not just tables, the fair also had popular attractions like a photo booth, a selection of donuts at the ASCC table, and free drinks from Pacific Perks Coffee.

Participating clubs, programs, departments, and more included (in alpha order):

• Activities Programming Board
• ADHD Club
• ASCC (Associated Students of Clark College) Student Government
• Campus Security & Safety
• Clark College Libraries
• Counseling and Health Center
• Columbia Writers Series
• CRU Club
• Decker Theatre
• STEM Nerd Girls & Engineering Program
• Environmental Club
• Get There Southwest Washington
• Japanese Program
• Korean Culture Club
• Latine Student Union
• League of Women Voters
• MESA (Mathematics, Engineering & Science Achievement)
• Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• Outdoors Club (coming soon!)
• Period, the Menstrual Movement (new at Clark!)
• Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
• Philosophy Club
• Spanish Club
• Student Employment
• The Iceberg
• The Phoenix
• The Swift
• Tutoring

See here for a complete list of Clark College ASCC’s student programs and clubs.

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

PUB 161 was packed with the Clark College community—both present and past—as they gathered to share stories about former Clark President Bob Knight during a remembrance event on January 10.

Knight, who led Clark College as president from 2007 to 2019, passed away on December 14. He was 67.

Penguin Nation Remembers Bob Knight

Julie Taylor, who worked in the president’s office, experienced Knight’s sense of humor and practical jokes daily.

Taylor said, “Bob had a tradition of buying the loudest, most obnoxious penguin toys and lined them up on my counter. As he left for the day, he would activate every penguin toy on his way out, and said, ‘See you later, Julie.’” Taylor would be serenaded by a loud, obnoxious penguin chorus at the end of every day.

Mark Magdaleno, head baseball coach, said that in his 43 years as a professional baseball coach, Bob Knight understood the value of student athletes. He said, “Bob knew our athletes had a choice of what college to attend. He embraced our athletes in their choice to attend Clark.”

Magdeleno said Knight often attended Penguin baseball games, even after he retired. He added, “He cared about his student athletes. He cared about this school. God bless you. Let’s go, Penguins!”

Michelle Golder, event services manager, shared several stories about Bob’s fun-loving nature and the office pranks: “Bob lived every day to the fullest. He loved Clark and genuinely believed the work we did was making a difference in our community. He created the presidential coin to recognize Clark employees for going above and beyond.”

She added, “After I organized my first commencement, Bob found me in my cubicle to especially thank me for a job well done. Kindness came second nature to Bob. He was one of the most genuine people who cared about others.”

Kathrena Halsinger, Interim Dean of Social Sciences and Fine Arts, recalled that Knight greeted her whenever they saw each other walking on campus. He also frequently attended the annual release parties for The Phoenix and opened the event.

Rhianna Johnson, currently director of Guided Pathways and Partnerships, was the director of Clark’s educational programs at Larch Corrections Center in Yacolt when Knight was president.

Johnson said, “Bob was so supportive of the program. He always attended the graduation ceremonies. He also came to play basketball with Larch students. He really cared about helping incarcerated people reenter society successfully.” She added, “We used to have Clark faculty and staff softball games. Bob was, of course, the pitcher.”

Wilma Raines, a Clark alum and a longtime donor to Clark College students and athletics, was Knight’s workout buddy at O’Connell Sports Center. Raines said, “We hit the gym every morning at 6:30, and started with the elliptical.”

Ceci Ryan-Smith, who was a Clark College alumni board president and Clark College Foundation board member when Knight was hired, said the leadership went around and around about Knight not holding a Ph.D. in Education, which is a typical requirement for a community college president. But Ryan-Smith spoke up on Knight’s behalf: “He may not have a Ph.D. in education, but he had a Ph.D. in life. I believe ultimately, we all won because we got Bob.”

Sudha Fredrick, vice president of Information Technology Service, Steven Clark, biology professor, and Sylvia Thornburg, who was dean of Instructional Planning during Knight’s tenure, were among those who also shared their “Bob” stories.

Calen Ouellette, Chief Executive Officer at Clark College Foundation, served as emcee. He wrapped up the program by saying: “In closing, I encourage each of you to carry Bob’s example with you. Whether it’s through a kind word, a purposeful act of service, or a bold step toward a better future—honor his legacy by making a positive impact, just as he did. Thank you for joining us today to remember Bob Knight. His legacy will forever inspire the Penguin Nation.”

Learn more:

Read our December 20, 2024, story recapping Bob Knight’s legacy and milestones at Clark College.

Read The Columbian’s January 13, 2025, story recapping Bob Knight’s memorial service attended by hundreds at the Vancouver waterfront.

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish

Step into a week of healing, reflection, and inspiration as we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at Clark College and well as the National Day of Racial Healing. The 2025 MLK Celebration, presented by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, offers a series of events designed to restore, educate, and empower our community.

All are welcome. All events are free to attend.

Clark College expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal in its programs and activities. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds.

Anyone needing accommodation due to a disability to fully participate in this event should contact Clark College’s Human Resources office prior to the event via phone: 360-992-2105 or email hr@clark.edu.

Event One: Guided Sound Bath (two sessions)

• When: Tuesday, January 21 (register for one session)

  • Session 1: 10-11 a.m.
  • Session 2: noon-1 p.m.

• Where: Gaiser Hall (GHL), Room 213
• Who: Open to Clark College students, staff, and faculty
• Register: Space is limited. Email mgolder@clark.edu to reserve your spot.

In alignment with the National Day of Racial Healing, begin your journey with a restorative healing space to help you pause, reset, realign. This healing session will prepare participants for meaningful engagement in this week’s events, from the book discussion to the keynote address by Dr. Bettina Love. Take this opportunity to connect within and find the balance needed to pursue equitable outcomes.

Anyone needing accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event should contact Clark College’s Human Resources office prior to the event via phone: 360-992-2105 or email hr@clark.edu.

Event Two: Book Discussion, Punished for Dreaming by Dr. Bettina Love

• When: Wednesday, January 22nd from 10-11:30 a.m.
• Where: Penguin Union Building (PUB), Room 161
• Book: Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal by Dr. Bettina L. Love

Engage in a thought-provoking book discussion of Dr. Bettina Love’s groundbreaking book, Punished for Dreaming. This conversation precedes Dr. Love’s keynote address by exploring the historical and systemic barriers to educational equity and how we can envision healing pathways. A limited number of books are available for purchase at the Clark College Bookstore for $19.50 each.

Event Three: Keynote Speaker Dr. Bettina Love, author of Punished for Dreaming

We Gon’ Be Alright, But That Ain’t Alright: Abolitionist Teaching and the Pursuit of Educational Freedom

• When: Thursday, January 23rd from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Where: Gaiser Student Center

Don’t miss Dr. Bettina L. Love’s keynote address, We Gon’ Be Alright, But That Ain’t Alright: Abolitionist Teaching and the Pursuit of Educational Freedom. An internationally acclaimed educator, author, and advocate for social justice, Dr. Love will delve into the struggles and possibilities of creating a future rooted in abolitionist teaching.

Abolitionist Teaching is built on the creativity, imagination, boldness, ingenuity, and rebellious spirit and methods of abolitionists to demand and fight for an educational system where all students are thriving, not simply surviving.

Drawing from her bestselling book, Punished for Dreaming, she will illuminate the necessity of moving beyond the “educational survival complex” to cultivate a system where every student thrives.

Join Us for a Week of Healing and Inspiration

The 2025 MLK Celebration at Clark College is more than a series of events—it’s a call to action. Whether through restorative practices, insightful dialogue, or powerful keynote addresses, this week will leave you inspired to continue Dr. King’s work of justice and equality.

Join Us: Learn more about MLK events at Clark College

About Dr. Bettina L. Love

A transformative voice in education and social justice, Dr. Bettina L. Love holds the esteemed William F. Russell Professorship at Teachers College, Columbia University.

Recognized by the Kennedy Center as one of the Next 50 leaders shaping an inclusive and compassionate future, Dr. Love’s profound insights and expertise have garnered acclaim from NPR, PBS, Time, Education Week, The Guardian, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Her latest New York Times bestselling book, Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal, is a winner of the Stowe Prize for Literary Activism and a finalist for the LA Times Book Award.

Dr. Love actively contributes to the mission of nurturing and empowering educators and parents committed to combating injustice within their educational institutions and communities. In 2018, the Georgia House of Representatives honored Dr. Love with a resolution for her impactful contributions to the field of education.

Her earlier bestseller, We Want to Do More Than Survive, has sold almost 200,000 copies. Books will be available in the Clark College Bookstore. Learn more about Dr. Bettina Love.

Post by Michelle Golder