Clark College welcomed fourteen newly tenured faculty members at the 2025 Tenure Reception on June 3. Together with Clark’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Karin Edwards, Tenure Support Supervisor DJ Scates, fellow faculty members, students, and families, these recipients celebrated the incredible effort they made throughout the process.

Administrators from each department introduced their newly tenured faculty members, giving the audience a glimpse into the impact each instructor has had on their students, colleagues, and community. Some recipients chose to give a brief thank you speech, encompassing the spirit of gratitude that flowed through the entirety of the event.

This year, the Board of Trustees unanimously granted tenure to the following outstanding educators.

Mohammad (Giga) Alqeeq, Cybersecurity

Giga helped build the Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Cybersecurity program and created workshops centered on online privacy and security. Despite his extensive experience in the field, he leaves his ego at the door, truly honoring and highlighting the contributions of all his students. Giga’s teaching philosophy is to use varying approaches so that students can choose what works best for them.

Halina Brant-Zawadski, Nursing

Bringing a wealth of knowledge to her theory and clinic work at Clark, Helina focuses on trauma responsive education, addressing stress management, equity, inclusion, and trauma-informed care with her students. Always going above and beyond, she is a calm, approachable resource for students.

Jay Fancher, Anthropology

Jay’s journey at Clark College began in 2014 as an adjunct professor. In 2019, he stepped in as the interim Chair of Anthropology with no guarantee of a permanent position, simply because he cares about this work. When he shares with students his fascination with things like mysterious fossils and lost civilizations, he teaches them practical life skills: curiosity, critical thinking, cultural relativism, and empathy. Jay’s teaching reflects the college’s mission for DEI; he invites students to step beyond their own worldview and biases and see those with different perspectives with respect.

Brandon Johnson, Automotive

Although new to formal teaching, Brandon has a natural talent and heart for mentoring. By creating a safe environment for his students to ask questions, he shows the care and attentiveness he has to them. Recognizing that the struggle of problem-solving is crucial in the automotive field, he finds the right timing when offering guidance so that students are eager to learn. Brandon often shares stories about his experience in the field that emphasizes the concepts students are learning, creating impactful, real-world examples.

Molly Lampros, Communications

Molly is a masterful curriculum designer and focuses on building relationships with her students. After completing significant research on trauma-informed teaching practices, she implemented what she learned in her own classroom. She believes in an equitable, discussion-based, student-centered learning environment in which all opinions are considered.

Teresa Lashchuk, Nursing

Since joining the Clark faculty in 2011 as an adjunct nursing instructor, Teresa has made major contributions to the school and community. She encourages critical thinking skills through empowerment and promotes inclusion, which enables learners to feel supported and safe. Students appreciate her relevant curriculum, as she brings real-world situations to her courses.

Josephine Lesage, Environmental Biology

Josie creates excitement about the natural world for her students and believes that the best learning happens outdoors. As an organized, passionate, and kind instructor, her students walk away from her lessons with a deeper appreciation of the patterns that govern life on our planet. By using active learning, group work, and check-ins to help students develop learning strategies and develop a growth mindset, Josie truly fosters curiosity in her students.

Brian Miyake, Surveying & Geomatics

Brian has made significant contributions to his department, both in academics and in community presence. He creates strong connections with regional surveying professionals and is a dedicated advisor to his students. This year, he guided his students to the National Society of Professional Surveyors 24^th Annual Student Competition in Washington DC, where they won first place – an impressive testament to Brian’s leadership. With a commitment to meeting students where they are, he uses culturally responsive teaching methods to provide transformative education and takes the time to help students learn complex topics.

Victor Morales, Philosophy

Throughout his teaching career, Victor has built a reputation as a mentor who creates spaces for students to share their lived experiences. He continues that mission at Clark, where he created and mentors the Philosophy Club for students. As an instructor, Victor is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, accounting for diverse backgrounds and learning styles in his pedagogical strategies. By including role-playing exercises, group work, and simulations to promote critical thinking, he provides students a safe platform to share their opinions.

Jesse Morse, English

Every year, with his wife and fellow instructor, Jennifer Denrow, Jesse co-directs Clark’s annual Spring Writing Workshop, bringing together and inspiring a community of writers. He is also the author of Flash Floods are Anomalies, a collection of poems published by Finishing Line Press in 2021. At the center of Jesse’s teaching are equity and cultural inclusiveness. Through a student-centered approach to instruction, he creates a classroom where students of all ethnicities, backgrounds, and abilities feel brave and vulnerable enough to engage deeply in learning.

Janine Rieck, Health Information Management

Janine’s philosophy of providing consistent support to her online classes creates an accessible and equitable environment. She builds her courses to provide an online learning experience that is equivalent to or surpasses the in-class experience, including intuitive videos, tips, tricks, and how-to instructions for students to ensure they always feel included and part of a community. Janine is highly driven and established a health information management club for students, encouraging them to give back to their community.

Natasja Swartz, Chemistry

Natasja’s curriculum celebrates the whole learner by removing impediments to success. She uses best practices from chemical education research blended into a cultural heritage framework to teach complex and interdisciplinary science. Known for her compassion and strong commitment to creating a supportive environment, Natasja pushes her students to think outside the box.

Cydney Topping, English

With the goal of helping students find the magic and joy of learning, Cydney designs her courses with intention, ensuring her students see their experiences reflected in the curriculum. An enthusiastic and creative team member, she also serves on the department committee tasked with redesigning Clark’s literature curriculum to reflect student-centered courses. She hopes to be a mentor for her students, cheering them forward on their educational journey.  

Gibran Zogbi, Accounting 

As the ultimate team player, Gibran is always available to help students and colleagues, who appreciate his enthusiasm, responsiveness, and the energy he brings to the classroom. He is committed to promoting virtue in his teaching by encouraging students to be the best version of themselves. His teaching style often goes beyond accounting, forging character in the classroom as he emphasizes to students that the kind of person they become is more important than what they do or have.

About the Tenure Process

Tenure is awarded by the college’s board of trustees based on professional excellence and outstanding abilities in their disciplines. The granting of tenure is based on the recommendations of tenure review committees to the Vice President of Instruction, which are then forwarded to the President, who presents a final recommendation to the board of trustees. Recommendations are based on self-evaluations, tenure review committee evaluations, student evaluations, supervisory evaluations, and peer evaluations. The final decision to award or withhold tenure rests with the board of trustees.

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley
More photos can be viewed on Flickr.

Clark’s Fourth Annual Creative Writing Festival brought together writers and readers from across the community to celebrate the written word. This week-long event was curated by the Creative Writing and English Department’s faculty, and it included a variety of opportunities for attendees to engage with the literary community. From author readings, book release parties, creative yoga classes, and culminating in the day-long Spring Writers Workshop, the festival inspired participants to fearlessly share their own stories.

Celebrating The Swift Literary Journal, Issue No. 3

“I always love a good story,” someone said as they opened the newest edition of The Swift, Clark College’s literary journal.

Some attendees at The Swift’s release party had found a seat and started reading the journal, while others chatted excitedly. It was an encouraging space for writers to showcase their creativity, as the contributing authors mingled with staff members, families, students, and alumni who came together to celebrate their hard work.

“Thank you for allowing us to publish your work,” Professor Dawn Knopf, an English Department faculty member addressed the authors in her introduction. “It’s an extraordinary issue, and we’re so proud of you.”

Authors took turns at the podium, reading excerpts of their work, which spanned genres – fiction, memoir, poetry, and essays.

The first author to read was student Shylee Greene, the only contributor to have work published in each of the three issues of The Swift. She read her poem, Hurt You to Stay.

Submissions for The Swift are also open to faculty and alumni. One alumnus, Tom Darby, was welcomed to the podium with loud applause before he shared an excerpt from his travel momoir about his time in Morocco in the 1970’s.

The entire publication was spearheaded by students—the photo used as the cover art was taken by one of the student contributors, Faith Hay, and the editors were students, Sean Gentry, Lizeth Hernandez, Samantha Phan, and Stephanie Wagner.

Staff members who missed the event can pick up a free copy of The Swift outside of the Creative Writing suite in Hanna Hall.

And the Award Goes To…

The 2025 Hawkins-Gallivan-Bostwick Awards for Excellence in Writing were presented during this year’s Creative Writing Festival. First through third place winners were announced for each category, including fiction, poetry, essays, analyses, and technical writing.

Professors introduced their students, emphasizing the talent and skill that the students displayed in their work. Students were then invited to read an excerpt of their work. Pieces addressed a variety of topics, such as religion, foster care, women’s rights in Algeria, and creative guides to crafting genre fiction. Regardless of genre, authors enchanted audience members with the way they weaved their stories, combining detail, structure, and flow to engage any reader.

“Writing has always been about community for me,” shared Dr. Jesse Morse during his introduction of one of the winners. “It’s something that can carry you through life.”

This event echoed Dr. Morse’s words, as faculty, staff, families, and fellow students came together to celebrate these students.

Coyote & Bear Discuss Modern Art

Faculty member Dr. Gerry Smith celebrated the release of his newest poetry collection, Coyote & Bear Discuss Modern Art, with a reading that highlighted the collaborative spirit behind the book.

He began with a personal story about how he met the artist who illustrated the collection and how their friendship quickly grew into a creative partnership. For the project, the artist would first send an illustration – each one titled – then Dr. Smith would create a poem inspired by his interpretation of the image. In some cases, his poems directly incorporated visual elements from the artwork. In others, the illustration sets the scene for the poem.

He then read a selection of poems while displaying the artwork that inspired each one. The titles of the poems matched those of the illustrations.

Each poem varied in tone, style, and perspective. Some played with the line structure to reflect the movement in the piece. Observant readers could spot recurring motifs, including the color blue and nods to Pittsburgh and the steel industry. One poem reimagined the iconic painting, American Gothic, envisioning what experiences the daughter of its infamous subjects might have.

The collection is a testament to artistic dialogue – two creators inspiring one another through the unique push and pull of their respective mediums.  Dr. Smith noted that this isn’t his first artistic collaboration, and he encouraged aspiring poets to seek out similar partnerships to deepen their own creative work.

Festival Highlights

The Creative Writing Festival also offered participants the opportunity to engage with authors and hone their own craft.

• Chelsea Bieker, author of the national bestseller Madwoman, concluded this year’s Columbia Writers Series with a reading and discussion. She offered practical advice on various aspects of the writing process, including point of view, plotting, revision, and handling rejection. She reminded attendees that while their work may not resonate with everyone, the right audience will find them eventually.
• Bestselling local author Emiko Jean opened the festival with a reading from The Return of Ellie Black, followed by a talk on hope, persistence, and the writing process. She spoke about the Pacific Northwest’s influence on her work, answered audience questions, and encouraged aspiring writers to embrace failure as part of the journey.
• Participants engaged their entire bodies in the process of being creative in a Yoga for Creativity class.
• The 2025 Spring Writing Workshop, themed “Ghost in the Machine,” concluded Clark College’s Creative Writing Festival with a full day of interactive sessions led by acclaimed authors and faculty members. Writers of all levels explored topics ranging from speculative fiction and memoir to poetry and visual storytelling.

Click here for a full lineup of workshops.

Learn More

Learn more about Creative Writing at Clark College, including the Columbia Writers Series returning in the fall, and submissions for The Swift Clark College Literary Journal.

Photos: Clark College/Malena Goerl

Calen Ouellette, CEO of the Clark College Foundation, kicked off his Penguin Talk, “Build, Strengthen, and Sustain Community – Together,” by comparing a community with a true Clark College metaphor: Penguins! 

“Penguins thrive because of community,” Calen said. “And just like them, we need each other to weather challenges, raise the next generation, and find our way through noise and uncertainty.” 

The second installment of this year’s Penguin Talks: Clark College Lunch & Learn series, Calen’s presentation invited the audience to reflect on the idea of community and what it truly means – specifically who supports them, challenges them, and makes space for them to fully be themselves. 

To lead by example, Calen encouraged attendees to start building community on the spot by introducing themselves to the people sitting nearby. Friends and strangers alike reached across the aisles, sparking conversations and making new connections.  

Calen then walked the audience through the three pillars that hold up every strong community: learning, connection, and leadership. He wove together inspirational quotes and personal stories that brought each pillar to life, including one brief but meaningful conversation with Al Roker that shaped his view on leadership.  

For those who appreciate hard data, Calen also shared compelling statistics underscoring the benefits and value of strong communities. From student success and economic strength to better mental and physical health, the numbers made one takeaway clear: community matters. 

He closed with a challenge. Distributing notecards and pens, Calen asked everyone to write down one small action they could take in the coming weeks to build community. Some read their answers aloud –like sharing fresh flowers from their gardens or bringing treats to their neighbors. Calen then left everyone with one final call to action: 

“Let’s go do something BOLD.” 

Learn More 

Penguin Talks: Clark College Lunch & Learn is a free, three-week series that invites the public and college community to explore impactful local topics and engage with inspiring speakers. The final session, The Role and Future of Community Colleges with Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards, will be on June 5. Register here. 

Penguin Talks will return for another series in October 2025. 

On May 28, Clark’s students tapped into their creative potential at the bi-quarterly Career Connect event, held at Connell Library. This series invites local businesses to campus to showcase career opportunities across Clark’s many fields of study. This time, the spotlight was focused on Creative and Communication Arts. 

When students stepped into the library, they were greeted by a vibrant mix of storytellers, broadcasters, artists, and publishers. Representatives from KOIN 6 News, Hazy Dell Press, StorySpark Collective, the Regional Arts & Culture Council, and award-winning artist Jose Solis offered insight into the diverse and dynamic world of creative careers. 

For some students, the path forward is already clear. For others, events like this are a chance to make connections and explore their options.  

“Sometimes, you’ve just got to try something,” said Renee Yama from Hazy Dell Press, a Portland-based children’s book publisher. “Ask yourself—are you enjoying it?” 

That willingness to seek out opportunities was at the heart of the event. Students moved from table to table, having real conversations with professionals who have turned their passion into a profession. It was about making connections, asking questions, and imagining possibilities. 

“These vendors have that lived experience, so students can see viable pathways through these discussions,” said Michael Caldwell, Career Advisor at Clark. 

Student Success Coaches and Career Advisors were also on hand to offer guidance, reminding students that they aren’t navigating their futures alone. While Career Services primarily supports current students, resources and events like Career Connect are also open to alumni and other community members. 

Held twice per quarter, Career Connect rotates through the areas of study at Clark, such as STEM, Healthcare, and Business and Entrepreneurship. Each event features between 5-10 vendors tailored to that field, giving students a chance to engage with industry professionals in a casual setting that’s welcoming and intentionally small-scale.  

Learn More 

Explore resources and upcoming events through Clark College’s Career Services at https://www.clark.edu/enroll/careers/.  

The white walls of Archer Gallery came alive with drawings, photography, paintings, and more at the opening reception of the 2025 Art Student Annual Exhibit on May 27. Three-dimensional pieces, such as ceramics and metals, stood on pedestals, while a digital media piece played on a TV, complete with headphones that allowed attendees to fully immerse themselves in its artistry. Families, friends, and staff explored the gallery, speaking with the artists about their pieces, each one curated over the past year by their art professors.

Every piece was unique, drawing the eye to color, shape, shadow, texture, and detail. One painting, bright with shades of blue and featuring a young woman with birds perched on her shoulders, was hard to miss. Nightfall by Olive Popp – who won the “Most Ambitious” award – stood out not only for its visual impact, but for the story behind it.

“I wanted the piece to feel dreamy, with a modern feel to it,” Olive said of her self-portrait. In the painting, she looks to the past, with ancient Greece in the background. But as an artist, Olive is looking forward, with plans to challenge her creativity in new ways as a makeup artist.

For Meilani Schille, inspiration came from the screen. Her watercolor piece, Personal Battles, blends elements from her favorite movies and TV shows into an eye-catching collage of pop culture. The layers of emotion and nostalgia reflect her approach to painting: letting layers of watercolor build into deeper, more vivid compositions.

Olivia K Smith, whose piece Virus won her “Best in Show”, also found her spark in visual storytelling. She credits watching cartoons at ten years old as the beginning of her artistic journey.

“The things I’m creating today – childhood me wouldn’t believe it,” Olivia shared with a smile.

With such a wide range of voices and visions on display, selecting winners was no easy task. That responsibility fell to Artist-in-Residence Bruce Conkle, who was tasked with making difficult decisions in a room full of deserving work.

“As a faculty member, I have had the joy of watching these artists work and discover their unique creative voices,” said Kendra Larson, Archer Gallery Director. “Time and again I am surprised by their ingenuity and tenacity. When things don’t go as planned, they are not deterred – instead employing a healthy sense of humor.”

The exhibit offers viewers the opportunity to glimpse into the artists’ creative journeys and celebrate their growth, dedication, and hard work.

This year’s winners include:

• Best in Show: Olivia Smith, Virus
• Most Ambitious: Olive Popp, Nightfall
• 1^st Place in Ceramics: Katie Wilson, Burger Coasters
• 2^nd Place in Ceramics: Angel Shetley, Cult of the Black Lamb
• 1^st Place in Drawing: Xavier Aguirre, Drowning in Joy
• 2^nd Place in Drawing: Britany Grable, Pots and Cups
• 3^rd Place in Drawing: Ariana Liseckas, Modern
• 1^st Place in Painting: Xavier Aguirre, Savor Me
• 2^nd Place in Painting: Thaily Garibay, Untitled
• 3^rd Place in Painting: Brady Creswell, It’s You Again
• 1^st Place in Photography: Coleman Merle, Reflections from the Past
• 2^nd Place in Photography: Olivia Porton, Follow Through
• 3^rd Place in Photography: Sam Keil, The L
• Best Print: India Tillson, Kool Aid
• Best Watercolor: Mary Clark, Lily Pads on Dreams
• Best Graphic Design: Yuliia Umanets, Typographic Mutation
• Best in Comics: Seb Golding, Maggie Hall
• Best Metals: Katie Swaim, Moon and Stars
• Best Silver Gelatin Print: Anselmo Esquivel-Soto, Untitled

Plan Your Visit to the Exhibit

The Art Student Annual Exhibit is open for viewing May 27-June 16, Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more details on the Archer Gallery, visit www.archergallery.com.

Photos: Clark College/Malena Goerl

“We begin at the beginning.”

With those words, Tanna Engdahl, Spiritual Leader of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, opened the first Penguin Talks: Lunch and Learn session of 2025. The event, titled “Tribal Sovereignty, Cultural Preservation, and Honoring Ancestral Traditions,” invited participants to step into the living history of the Cowlitz people.

From the creation story of how the Cowlitz Tribe came to be, to the structure of their daily life – living in plank houses, hunting and preserving food, racing horses, and their own Salish language – Tanna painted a picture that invited participants to experience the Cowlitz tribe’s enduring spirit.

In the middle of her story, she paused. “And then it all changed.”

Just as she had shared this world with participants, Tanna then showed the profound changes that followed the arrival of Lewis and Clark. The expedition to the West marked the beginning of a difficult era where diseases swept through the tribe, and in the time of treaties, they were pressured to abandon their ancestral land.

However, the Cowlitz Tribe are known as the “Forever People” for good reason.

“We couldn’t comprehend leaving our land…our ancestors,” Tanna explained.

She shared with the audience the deep connection her people have with their ancestors, and how those deep-rooted relationships have supported and carried their people through generations of hardship, injustice, and perseverance.

Her story came full circle with the modern-day fight for recognition—the tribe’s fight to regain their land and become a federally recognized tribe. Tanna left the room with a lasting impression of the Cowlitz Tribe:

“We are a people who never gave up, never retreated…we are strong today because of our ancestors.”

Learn More

Penguin Talks: Clark College Lunch & Learn is a free, three-week series that allows participants to explore impactful local topics and engage with inspiring speakers. Register here.

Upcoming sessions

• May 29 – Build, Strengthen, Sustain Community—Together with Calen Ouellette, CEO of Clark College Foundation
• June 5 – The Role and Future of Community Colleges with Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards

Photos: Clark College/Malena Goerl

Spring is in the air at Clark College! With commencement less than a month away, students and staff members took a well-deserved break to enjoy the sunshine at two events on May 21.

Spring Fest 2025

The lawn near Anderson Fountain was abuzz with excitement as students, staff members, and families played games and connected with fellow Penguins during the annual Spring Fest. Whether they raced one another on inflatable slides and horses, competed in friendly volleyball matches, showed off their airbrushed tattoos, or posed for a caricature artist, fun was had by all throughout the day.

This event, coordinated by the student-led Activities Programming Board (APB), provided students with more than free activities and food – it allowed them to meet new people and connect with friends.

“It’s all about bringing students together,” shared Beheshta Eqbali, an APB Events Coordinator. “This year was one of the most successful Spring Fests because we had it for a longer period on one day instead of on two days, so everyone was here today.”

Between rounds of giant Jenga and Connect 4, students chatted with each other over ice cream, burritos, fresh fruit, and other snacks. Portland magician, Hart Keene, also took the stage, wowing the crowd with card tricks.

Abigail Ng, an APB Coordinator, is graduating this year and personally appreciated the break Spring Fest provided for students. “Spring quarter is an important time for student events – students might be stressed, and some of them might have senioritis, so it’s important to enjoy the sun and take a break.”

With the spring quarter’s final projects wrapping up and commencement less than a month away, this event provided some well-deserved downtime for Clark’s hard-working students.

Bee Campus: Talk & Tour

On the heels of World Bee Day and Spring Fest, Biology Professor Steven Clark led the Bee Campus Talk & Tour workshop, where staff members learned about Washington’s 600 species of native bees and how Clark stays bee-friendly as an official Bee Campus. He shared fun facts and common myths – for example, did you know the average bee’s life span is one year? In Washington, they spend the majority of that time underground!

Staff members then joined Professor Steven on a leisurely stroll to one of the campus’s bee gardens – located just outside of the STEM building – where native plants attract various bees and other insects. From honeybees to sweat bees, participants helped identify different species and observed how much pollen each bee had gathered, putting into practice what they learned in the workshop.

Different species are active at different times of the season, so the bees that are pollinating flowers during spring quarter won’t be the same ones you see buzzing around during the summer. When you’re on campus, take a walk through the bee gardens and see how many kinds of bees you can spot!

Learn More

Students interested in joining Clark’s Activities Programming Board can learn more on the APB webpage.

Want to become involved with or learn more about Clark’s Bee Campus? Email Professor Steven Clark, College Bee Campus Coordinator, at sclark@clark.edu.

Photos: Clark College/Malena Goerl and Carly Rae Zent

On May 20, Clark College welcomed acclaimed author and policy expert Heather McGhee for a powerful conversation about equity, opportunity, and the cost of systemic racism in America. Drawing from her best-selling book The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together, McGhee urged the audience to recognize this moment as a national inflection point—and to take collective action toward building and shaping a more inclusive future. 

With a strong background in economic policy, McGhee focused on pressing interconnected issues such as the affordability of education, poverty, healthcare, and sustainable energy solutions. “When I set out on this journey to write The Sum of Us, I was thinking about the present and the future. How much you can’t really understand where you are, standing in a moment, unless you understand the steps that you took to get to a place.” 

Zero-sum game 

McGhee goes back to the historic Bacon’s Rebellion in 1793 because the laws that followed the defeat of Bacon’s Rebellion created a zero-sum story. “These laws told the colonial plantation elite that the European landless and indentured folks that ‘your freedom, your citizenship, your process and your humanity is contingent on there being someone beneath you.’ And if they rise, it is a threat to you.”  

The idea of a zero-sum game is that there can be no mutual progress—if one player scores a point, the other player loses a point.  

McGhee explained that we need to have all the players scoring on the team, “You want all of the players on the field scoring points for your team, where inequality is actually bad for growth. Right?” 

“It is one of the loudest and oldest stories in America… that progress of people of color has to come at the expense of white folks.” She explained how these narratives foster division and hinders collective progress, pointing out that “the black-white economic divide has cost the U.S. GDP $16 trillion over the last 20 years.”  

McGhee’s call to action 

McGhee called for unity across diverse backgrounds, urging individuals to challenge this divisive narrative. “We need to organize in a way that is explicitly cross-racial,” she urged, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and mutual progress in overcoming systemic barriers.  

Community engagement emerged as another vital theme in McGhee’s address. She noted, “Every scholar of authoritarianism has observed that… being in regular contact with other people is an essential part of the formula that defeats autocracy.” This statement highlights the significance of interpersonal connections and support networks, particularly following the social isolation exacerbated by the pandemic. 

Drawing inspiration from historical movements, particularly the civil rights movement, McGhee reminded the audience of the resilience demonstrated by those who came before us. She asserted, “The first generation to defeat American fascism was the abolition generation,” drawing parallels between past struggles and the current fight for justice and equality. McGhee encouraged her audience not to lose hope, stating, “They kept fighting. They kept teaching their children to fight,” inspiring listeners to continue advocating for change. 

In conclusion, McGhee’s reminds us of the responsibilities we hold as individuals and as a community. “You don’t have to do it all the time… but there will come a moment when you have a choice to make,” she concluded, encouraging everyone to be prepared to speak up and stand for justice when the opportunity arises. 

Q&A with Dr. Edwards and the audience 

Following her speech, Heather McGhee engaged in a Q&A with President Dr. Karin Edwards and then opened it to the audience for questions. Topics included: environmental racism, psychological and emotional costs of racism, and truth and reconciliation. 

McGhee explained how the exploitation of natural resources mirrors the historical exploitation rooted in chattel slavery. She stated, “The very orientation that our industrialized capitalist society has towards the Earth comes from the same willingness to exploit.” She elaborated on this by discussing “sacrifice zones,” areas where pollution is concentrated due to a lack of political power to resist industrial developments. McGhee highlighted a grassroots effort in Memphis, where a diverse coalition successfully fought against a natural gas pipeline that threatened both the local Black community and a vital aquifer, demonstrating how environmental issues can unite disparate groups. 

McGhee pointed out that while many have made strides in education and business, systemic barriers remain. She cited research showing that “the average Black college graduate has less household wealth than the average white high school dropout,” illustrating the deep-rooted economic disparities that perpetuate inequality. McGhee emphasized that racism affects everyone, not just marginalized communities, and that its economic impact extends widely. 

McGhee advocated for a collective effort to acknowledge the nation’s complex racial history, emphasizing the need for organized healing processes across communities. She noted that many societies have successfully navigated their traumas through similar processes, and she called for educational reforms that accurately portray America’s past, stating, “Our country should know our own dark history, and we shouldn’t be lied to in our textbooks.” 

---

---

Attendees also raised questions about personal experiences with racism and strategies for fostering dialogue across divides. McGhee emphasized the importance of finding common ground and shared values, encouraging individuals to approach conversations with empathy and a willingness to listen. She acknowledged the challenges of discussing sensitive topics within families and communities, but asserted that doing so is crucial for progress. 

In closing, McGhee reiterated the importance of solidarity, particularly for vulnerable communities, urging everyone to recognize the humanity of immigrant communities who seek a better life in the U.S. “The most powerful people in the world profit from their exploitation and from a fear of one another,” she remarked, underscoring the need for collective action to uplift marginalized voices and confront systemic inequities. 

Learn more  

• Heather McGhee’s website here  
• Book discussion guide here  
• Young readers’ edition here  
• The Sum of Us podcast is produced by the Obamas’ production company, Higher Ground, and Futuro Studios. Listen here.  
• The Sum of Us book is available for purchase at the Clark College Bookstore 
• Link to Susan Parrish’s HuffPost story about her wild life of living tiny in rural Eastern Oregon.
  

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley

Career Services regularly hosts events that expose students to potential job paths and connects them with industry professionals. Two events this past week highlighted the value of partnering with our community and educating students on careers.

Justice System Career Panel and Fair

Clark College students, alumni, and community members gathered in Foster Auditorium on May 14 for an engaging panel discussion and career fair, designed to introduce attendees to the diverse career opportunities within the justice system.

Hosted by Clark College Career Services and the Clark County Bar Association Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, the event provided invaluable insights into the various career pathways available in the field.

The panel discussion featured professionals from a range of disciplines within the justice system. Panelists shared their experiences, discussed the challenges and rewards of their careers, and answered questions from attendees, fostering a lively and informative dialogue.

Panelists included:

• Anna Lookingbill, LICSW: Jail Transition Manager, Clark County Jail Services
• Jamie Schulz: Paralegal, Butchard Law
• Alicia Hensley: Management Analyst, Clark County District Court
• Amy Harlan: Diversion Counselor, Clark County Prosecuting Attorney
• Jade Day: Interpreter Services Coordinator, Clark County District Court
• LaQuinta Daniels: RCS Program Coordinator, Clark County Juvenile Court
• Heather Kahl: Family Court Services Coordinator/Guardian ad Litem, Clark County Superior Court
• Erin Welch: Detention Alternatives Supervisor, Clark County Juvenile Court
• Deagan Williams: Program Coordinator -Jury Administration, Clark County Superior Court
• Cory Bobeck: Attorney/Rule 6, Johnson & Associates
• Stephanie Stephenson: Probation Services Case Manager, Clark County District Court
• Christopher Swaby: Chief Defender, Clark County Public Defense

Following the discussion, attendees moved to the Foster Lobby, where they engaged in one-on-one conversations with panelists and other community members in an informal career fair setting. This space allowed students to connect personally with professionals, ask in-depth questions, and gather resources to support their career exploration. Many students expressed appreciation for the opportunity to build meaningful connections and gain greater clarity about potential career paths in the justice field.

In addition to career exploration, participants enjoyed complimentary pizza and drinks while networking with potential mentors and employers. The event successfully inspired students and community members to consider roles within the justice system, reinforcing the importance of education and professional engagement in pursuing justice-related careers.

Business and Entrepreneurship Career Connect Event

Clark College’s Career Services team hosted the Business & Entrepreneurship Career Connect Event on May 13th, 2025, offering students, alumni, and community members a valuable opportunity to engage with industry professionals and explore potential career pathways.

Held in the Scarpelli Hall Lobby, the event welcomed over 30 students, along with eight employers, faculty and instruction representatives, student success coaches, academic advisors, and career services team members.

Rather than a traditional job fair, the event served as an interactive platform for attendees to gain insight into various industries, understand career trajectories, and build meaningful connections with seasoned professionals.

The employers who attended included:

• Ken Torre
• Rally Pizza/Lucky Horseshoe
• Northwest Business Development Association
• Odyssey World
• John Jackson Insurance
• Neil Jones Food Company
• Wurthy.co
• Vancouver Housing Authority

From the moment attendees arrived, conversations flowed as students sought advice, asked questions, and engaged in discussions about the realities of working in business and entrepreneurship. Employers shared expertise on industry trends, provided guidance on professional development, and helped students visualize career paths beyond what’s found in job postings. Faculty and advisors played a vital role in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations, ensuring students saw the bigger picture in their career journeys.

The atmosphere was welcoming and dynamic, with career exploration activities, a bingo game, and a raffle for a Clark College Bookstore gift card. Many students also took advantage of the opportunity to get professional headshots, helping them refine their LinkedIn profiles and personal portfolios.

Attendees expressed their appreciation for the event, highlighting how valuable it was to connect with professionals in a supportive environment. The chance to speak directly with industry experts and gain insights that will support the next steps in their career paths.

Next Career Connect Event

Clark College’s Career Services team continues to create opportunities for students and alumni to engage with professionals from diverse fields.

The next Career Connect event will take place on May 28 in Cannell Library from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., focusing on the Creative & Communications Arts area of study.

In the STEM building’s Collaboratorium on Thursday, May 15, students and professionals drank tea and ate finger sandwiches while chatting at tables festooned with star confetti and paper planets.

The annual Women in STEM Tea, led by Carol Hsu and Tina Barsotti and the members of Clark NERD girls and GEEKs, invited women professionals to talk with students about their industries and navigating STEM fields.

Barsotti explained, “The Women in STEM tea offers students a way to connect with women in STEM professionals in an casual setting.  These professionals inspire our students and bring a sense of community to support and empower the next generation of women in STEM.”

Table leaders, who took time out of their busy schedules to join us, included:

• Danielle Samson—Green Mountain Structural Engineering
• Joelle Brown—Bonneville Power Administration
• Dr. Joanne Hyndman—Salem Pediatric Clinic
• Veronica Vest—Peterson Structural Engineers
• Becca Dunphy—S&F Land Services
• Tina Jenkins—Mechatronics Professor

Balancing work and family

In one conversation between Dr. Joanne Hyndman, a doctor at Salem Pediatric Clinic, and Sopiia, a first-year student from Ukraine, they discussed balancing careers with family.

Sofiia said, “You have to meet people to hear stories, how they changed degrees, balanced families… it’s interesting to see how people deal with it.

Hyndman agreed, and shared that her classmates in medical school sometimes waited until residency to start a family or sometimes hired outside help. “People do it in all sorts of different ways… it definitely takes a village.”

Opportunities in STEM

Conversations with Joelle Brown, of the Bonneville Power Administration, and Becca Dunphy or S&F Land Services, revealed a lack of women in their fields despite efforts to recruit them.

Brown, who attended Clark herself as a transfer student, said “We don’t see a lot of women.” But she had advice: “Have some confidence. It helps if you’ve had a job doing anything or volunteering. Something that shows accountability.”

Dunphy explained that the geomatics and surveying field was struggling to recruit new employees, despite the work being in-demand and family-wage. “There’s a lot of lacking in certain industries… we’ve got a lot of people retiring or of retiring age in surveying.”

The good news? That creates a pathway for new women in STEM to succeed. Dunphy herself returned to school after ten years working for the postal service. Now, she works part-time for a local company while in school. She will become full-time once she graduates.

Thyda Lim, from Worksource, agreed that “it’s never too late” to pursue a new field.

About Clark NERD Girls and GEEKS

Clark NERD Girls and GEEKS is a student-led official Clark College club registered through the Associated Students of Clark College. They are dedicated to breaking down stereotypes of women in STEM and encouraging youth to pursue STEM careers.

Photos: Clark College/Carly Rae Zent