Archer Gallery is excited to present Nature Patterns by Kim Cridler and Tamara English. The work in this exhibit highlights the symbolic, spiritual, and psychological power of nature.

The forms used in these oil paintings and metal sculptures speak to, and are inspired by, nature’s awe-inspiring beauty. In a time where climate change is at the forefront of public and political discourse, this exhibit presents an alternative, parallel relationship with the environment and how we navigate internally in the midst of challenging times.

Please join us for the opening reception and artist talk. See dates below. All events are free and open to the public.

Exhibit title: Nature Patterns
What: Twelve oil paintings by local artist, Tamara English, and three, large-scale metal sculptures by Michigan-based artist, Kim Cridler.
Artists: Kim Cridler and Tamara English
Exhibit dates: January 6 through March 24, 2025

• Viewing hours: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Opening reception: Thursday, January 16, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Artist Talk, Tamara English: Thursday, January 30th, 10-11 a.m. https://clark-edu.zoom.us/j/89227798779
• Artist Talk, Kim Cridler: Thursday, January 30th, 1-2 p.m. https://clark-edu.zoom.us/j/81197837608
• Closing Reception: Saturday, March 22nd, noon – 2pm

On the Web: Archer Gallery (clark.edu)

Exhibition Statement

This exhibit brings attention to natural patterns shared by both plants and humans. For instance, the veins of a branch resemble the blood vessels of an arm, the leaf of a plant mimics the curves of a hip, and the stems of a flower meanders like hair.

In other words, we are nature and nature is us, we need nature and nature needs us. This idea has a rich history with scientists like Rachel Carson, naturalists like Henry David Thoreau, and poets like Mary Oliver and Robert Frost.

Kim Cridler’s work highlights the importance of physical materials, and how the ideal of beauty in nature and craft are important. Tamara English presents the inner life symbolized by a garden, where one may cultivate well being and upliftment.

While Tamara English and Kim Cridler live hundreds of miles apart and each have unique art practices, they share a reverence for and visual vocabulary of the natural world. Their work also points to the potential for change as a central part of the human experience.

Ultimately, this show humanizes our connection to the environment, sows the seeds of wonder, and, hopefully, encourages viewers to appreciate our natural world more.

About the Artists

Kim Cridler

https://www.kimcridler.com

Artist’s Statement: My practice is inspired by the patterns of nature and the way objects can record and extend our lives. My work, based on familiar forms like trees and vessels, argues for the pleasure found in beauty, and the power of material and form. Using a process that is accumulative and direct, joining small parts together into a larger body, I work to create a sense of movement within still objects. Within this structured movement there resides the potential for change. These works serve as a reminder of our own place in the natural world; no matter how carefully we construct and manage our daily experiences, life will not leave us alone or untouched by change.

Biography: Trained as a metalsmith, Kim was an undergraduate at the University of Michigan, earned an MFA in Metals from the State University of New York at New Paltz, and studied at Skowhegan School of Sculpture and Painting. Kim has taught in art programs across the country including the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the University of Michigan, San Diego State University, Arizona State University, Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts and the Penland School of Crafts. Her work can be found in the public collections including the Arkansas Art Center Decorative Museum of Art, the Chazen Art Museum, the collection of the Grand Valley State University, the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, the collection of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, NYC, the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, the Racine Art Museum, the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art, the Scottsdale Contemporary Museum of Art, and the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Kim’s studio practice focuses on the fabrication of sculptural forms in metal with materials evocative of the natural world. She has also applied her use of steel, structure, and ornament in large-scale public art projects and commissions for public spaces. Public works include a sculptural installation for the MTA Arts-For-Transit program at the Mamaroneck, NY Metro North Station and works in the Londoner Hotel Macao, China. Her work was featured in a Master Metalsmith retrospective exhibition through 2022 at the Metal Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. You can find her on Instagram @kimcridler.

Tamara English

https://tamaraenglish.com/

Tamara English is an award-winning American artist whose work explores themes of re-enchantment and the buoyancy that arises through awakening to divine presence. Her oil paintings reveal the inner worlds as vibrant healthy landscapes, exploring how the inner aspects of our beings are like gardens that may be cultivated when one is spiritually engaged. Her work also explores the different levels of awareness beyond the physical. Most wisdom traditions speak about the existence of these different levels which include the subtle and causal realms. These realms are where our beliefs, perceptions and inquiry and understanding of what has sacred meaning to us are found. English blends imaginary elements with elements found in the physical world to create an atmosphere that expands our perception of reality. Her work reveals the vastness and beauty of an inner life in which one is connected to their divine ideal, beyond any specific tradition or belief system. Each painting may be considered a portal to discover the magical, mystical and alchemical in everyday life, well-being and upliftment, and that all is imbued with Spirit.

Tamara English’s work has been exhibited throughout the US and internationally including at the New Orleans Museum of Art, the New York Armory, the US Embassy in Riga, Latvia and the Seattle Art Museum. She holds a BFA in painting from Pacific Northwest College of Art. Her work has been written about in PORT, Pacific Dissent Magazine, Hyperallergic and Oakland Art Enthusiast. She has been awarded grants and projects from the Regional Art and Culture Council in Portland, Oregon and the Ford Family Foundation. She has been awarded a Golden Spot artist residency at Playa Summerlake in Oregon. Her paintings have appeared in the television series “Portlandia,” and in the documentary “Art: PDX” about Portland artists. Her work is widely collected and represented in many collections, including the collections of Lock Haven University, the City of Portland Portable Works, Columbia Sportswear, and a former U.S. president. English lives and works in Portland, Oregon.

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 about the Archer Gallery.

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.

Winter Welcome Week kicked off on Monday, January 6 with a misty, then sunny first day of winter term. Thanks to the helpful volunteers who staffed the information tables inside buildings all around campus and answered students’ questions. Assisting students at the beginning of each term would not be possible without so many staff and faculty volunteering their time to help Clark students.

Just as in fall term, parking lots were crowded as thousands of students returned to classrooms and labs across the main campus, the Clark College Building at Washington State University Vancouver, and Clark’s Columbia Tech Center after winter break.

January 6 also marked the first day for two new interim vice presidents at Clark:

• Dr. Mark Wahlers, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs
• Dr. Darcy Rourk, Interim Vice President of Human Resources

Both Dr. Wahlers and Dr. Rourk are expected to serve through the academic year. Searches for the permanent vice presidents will begin in late January or early February.

Dr. Mark Wahlers, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs

In an email to faculty and staff, Dr. Karin Edwards introduced the new interim vice president of Student Affairs: “We were fortunate to work with The Registry in identifying strong candidates for the interim Vice President of Student Affairs. After careful consideration, we selected Dr. Mark Wahlers. Dr. Wahlers brings extensive experience in higher education and a deep understanding of student and academic affairs. Additionally, as a resident of our area, he is familiar with Clark College and the Clark County community.”

Dr. Mark Wahlers has worked for more than 40 years in higher education leadership. During his 25 years at Concordia University in Portland, he served as provost for 16 years as well as provost at Concordia’s Japan campus in Tokyo, and vice president of student affairs and enrollment management.

Previously, he spent 12 years in leadership roles at Concordia University in Austin, Texas, including dean of students, dean of institutional services and almost 3 years as chief administrative officer at Concordia College in Bronxville, New York. Before pursuing administrative roles, he was professor of English Rhetoric and Literature at Concordia University in Austin for 7 years. He also served as principal at the Lutheran Language Institute in Tokyo.

Dr. Wahlers holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Concordia University Nebraska, a master’s degree in education from Portland State University, and a doctoral degree in education/curriculum and instruction from the University of Texas at Austin.

Dr. Darcy Rourk, Interim Vice President of Human Resources

Dr. Edwards wrote: “Darcy Rourk, former Vice President of Human Resources at Clark College, has graciously agreed to serve in the role. Her expertise and familiarity with the college and our community make her an excellent choice for this role.”

Dr. Rourk worked intermittently at Clark College between 2009 and 2021.

Her career in education spans five decades. Her roles in K-12 education range from teacher, principal, curriculum director, district assistant superintendent, and district superintendent. Next, Dr. Rourk worked at Northwest Regional Education Service District, Oregon’s largest ESD, first as chief personnel officer and then as assistant superintendent.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a master’s degree in curriculum instruction, and a doctoral degree in educational administration, all from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas.

Dr. Edwards added, “Please join me in welcoming Dr. Wahlers and Dr. Rourk to their interim roles. I am confident that their leadership and expertise will be valuable as we continue our efforts to support our students, staff, and faculty.”

We are sorry to share that Bob Knight, who led Clark as president from 2007 to 2019, passed away on December 15. He was 67.

A graduate of the West Point Military Academy, Bob served 21 years in the United States Army before retiring as a lieutenant colonel. He came to the Clark presidency via a non-traditional route, serving previously as the last commander of the historic Vancouver Barracks and as a chief financial officer for major companies in the area. Hired as the vice president of administrative services in 2004, Bob was named interim president and then selected for the permanent position in 2007.

Bob was known to regularly walk the campus, chatting with students, staff and faculty to keep in touch and assess the needs of the college. He coined the phrase “Penguin Nation” to build a sense of camaraderie for the campus and for Clark within the broader community.

Students were always first in Bob’s mind when considering new programs and improvements to existing offerings. During his tenure, Clark underwent a holistic makeover of its academic programs and support services aimed at increasing student completion rates and better preparing graduates of family wage jobs. He launched a $1 million scholarship campaign through Clark College Foundation.

Clark College Milestones Under President Bob Knight’s Leadership:

• 2007: President Bob Knight introduced the presidential coin given to faculty and staff members who provided exemplary service to Clark students, the college and the community.
• October 2008: Clark College celebrated its 75th anniversary and launched a year-long diamond jubilee with a plethora of special events
• February 2009: O’Connell Sports Center dedication with Claude “Skeet” O’Connell, age 93
• September 2009: Columbia Tech Center, Clark’s campus in East Vancouver, opens
• September 2011: Oliva Family Early Learning Center, phase I is dedicated
• April 2012: The college’s Royce E. Pollard Japanese Friendship Garden was dedicated during the annual Sakura Festival
• September 2012: Ribbon cutting for Clark’s Diversity Center in Gaiser Hall
• September 2012: Beacock Music Hall naming ceremony
• September 2013: Clark dedicated its Columbia Credit Union Simulation Pharmacy in the Clark College Building at WSU Vancouver
• March 2014: Clark College opened its Veterans Resource Center. President Bob Knight said, “As a vet myself, it is a proud day for Clark College to be opening a resource center for our student veterans.”
• June 2014: Ribbon cutting for the Firstenburg Dental Hygiene Education and Care Center
• June 2014: The Hank and Bernice Boschma family partnered with Clark College Foundation to provide 60 acres for a Clark College north county satellite campus at the Ridgefield junction
• Fall 2015: Clark offers its first baccalaureate degree, Bachelor of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene
• October 2016: STEM Building ribbon cutting
• Winter 2017: Clark offers its second baccalaureate degree, Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Management
• October 2017: The Penguin Pantry opens, providing free food boxes to students
• November 2017: Tod and Maxine McClaskey Culinary Institute ribbon cutting
• Fall 2018: Clark offers its third baccalaureate degree, Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services

Bob’s Other Contributions to the Clark County Community:

Bob Knight was named 2016 Clark County First Citizen for his service to the community, which included these institutions and organizations:

• American Red Cross, Southwest Washington Chapter
• Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Washington
• Columbia River Economic Development Council
• Fort Vancouver National Trust (now The Historic Trust)
• Rotary Club of Vancouver
• Washington State University Vancouver Advisory Council
• Workforce Southwest Washington

Remembrances from those who worked with Bob Knight:

“Bob often quoted General George Marshall: There is no limit to the good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit. Bob never cared about the credit. But his service and leadership spoke for itself. That’s why he was honored as Clark County’s First Citizen. And that’s the reason for the outpouring of affection and respect in honoring him for a life truly well lived.”
–Barbara Kerr, former Executive Director of Communications and Marketing at Clark College

“Bob was a force of nature. I have many fond memories of our years at Clark: filming silly videos, getting lost during Hood to Coast, commencements at Larch Correctional Facility. I still try to embody several of his leadership traits like the importance of showing up and being present for people, always putting students first, and making the right decision even when it’s the hard choice.”
–Dr. Tim Cook, President, Clackamas Community College; former Clark College Vice President of Instruction

“Bob often said Clark College is all about the student and meant it. He was very approachable as president and truly enjoyed being with the students. One of my favorite memories was when some students challenged him to run through the college’s water feature. The jets would randomly turn on, so you risked getting soaked. Bob didn’t hesitate to take their challenge. He ran across the feature multiple times in his suit and tie, surviving the blasts of water. The students were amazed a college president would take the time and risk the danger to play that game with them. Friendships were built that day. Bob was truly all about the student.”
–Jack Burkman, Port of Vancouver Board of Commissioners, former Clark College Trustee

“Bob is the best of the best—one of a kind. He cared deeply about our community. At Clark College, it was all about the students! As trustees, Addison Jacobs and I did the right thing when we convinced Bob to apply for the presidency. Because of his leadership and vision, he helped stabilize and advance the college. I will cherish each minute we worked together at Clark.”
–Rhona Sen Hoss, former Clark College Trustee

“Bob was a ‘walk around’ leader. He went to people, where they were, across the board. He listened, he was approachable, and he was fun. Because of this, he had support and led the college through a long, healing growth period—a unique and important contribution in Clark College’s history. I am truly saddened to hear of his passing.”
–Addison Jacobs, former Clark College Trustee

Remembering Bob Knight

• The Clark College community and Clark College Foundation will reflect and remember former President Bob Knight on Friday, January 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the main campus (PUB161). The college also will fly the flag at half-mast that day.
• Bob’s family has arranged a memorial service on Monday, January 13 at 11:00 a.m. at the AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront (333 West Columbia Way, Vancouver, Wash.)

Read The Columbian story about Bob Knight passing.

Read Clark College Foundation’s tribute to Bob Knight on his retirement.

View Clark College Foundation’s video tribute to Bob Knight on his retirement.

Our MESA scholars had a busy fall term attending conferences, transfer fairs, internship info sessions, and workshops. Below is a list of MESA activities during fall term and upcoming opportunities in 2025.

October 30: November 2: National Diversity in STEM Conference in Phoenix, AZ

Four Clark College MESA students attended the nation’s largest multidisciplinary and multicultural STEM diversity event. It was presented by the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science. Students were immersed in cutting-edge research, professional development, keynote sessions, and the Academic & Career Expo. The experience equipped them with valuable skills, scholarship information, and networking opportunities.

November 14: STEM Research & Transfer Fair, Seattle

MESA Scholars visited North Seattle College for the STEM Research & Transfer Fair, connecting with the University of Washington’s resources on research pathways, research experiences for undergraduates, funding opportunities, and transfer support for Clark students who plan to transfer to UW.

November 19: WSU Vancouver Workshop

MESA hosted an Admissions and Financial Aid workshop with WSU Vancouver counselors. The sessions covered transfer admissions, scholarships, and financial aid, with one-on-one assistance with WSU Vancouver counselors.

November 20: Introduction to Success Coaching

In partnership with Clark College’s Student Success Coaching program, we offered a session to connect MESA scholars with the college’s Success Coaches who offer personalized guidance to help them navigate coursework, college life, and long-term academic planning.

November 26: MESA Giving Event in Clark’s MESA Center, STEM Building

A gathering with games, food, and crafts for MESA scholars to build community, relax, celebrate their progress, and prepare for their finals.

December 3: Summer Health Professions Education Program Webinar

MESA hosted a webinar in collaboration with the Summer Health Professions Education Program for students to learn about its summer internships and application process. This transformative summer experience offers students opportunities to explore careers in medicine, dentistry, nursing, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, and public health.

December 5: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) Community College Internships Info Session (virtual)

MESA hosted a virtual info session with the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory in Richland, Washington about its Community College Internships. MESA Scholars learned about paid internships for Summer 2025, key application dates, and the application process.

December 12: Transfer Student Preview Day at University of Washington, Seattle

MESA scholars attended University of Washington’s Transfer Student Preview Day, designed for prospective transfer students to explore programs, services, and connect with academic departments. The UW College of Engineering hosted a lunch and info session just for MESA engineering students! It was attended by students from Clark, Columbia Basin, Edmonds, Everett, Highline, and Green River community colleges.

December 13: Internship & Scholarship Application Work Session, Clark MESA Center

MESA Scholars are invited to join their MESA peers for a focused session to work on their applications for internships and scholarships. With deadlines fast approaching for many of these opportunities, it is the perfect time to get started before heading out for winter break. Food, coffee, and snacks were provided to keep students energized as they work.

January 9, 2025: ISB Summer Internships Info Session

In partnership with the Institute for Systems Biology, MESA will host a virtual info session for students to learn about ISB’s summer internships and why it’s important for students to engage and participate in these experiences. ISB offers various internships for students interested in biology, chemistry, computer science, information science, applied mathematics, and engineering. ISB is an internationally renowned nonprofit institute in Seattle, which is dedicated to studying and applying systems biology to unravel biological complexity.

January 14: Health Sciences Career Panel

In partnership with The Mentoring Project, we are excited to host a virtual health sciences career panel that offers MESA Scholars an opportunity to explore diverse health sciences careers. Students will gain valuable insights from experienced professionals and will ask the professionals questions during a Q&A session.

January 25, 2025: Silicon Forest Tech Summit, Hillsboro, Oregon

MESA plans to take several students to the Silicon Forest Tech Summit. The summit brings together the entire tech ecosystem, uniting emerging tech startups, established corporations, innovative technologists, and educational institutions. Students will have the opportunity to explore emerging tech, gain insights into advanced manufacturing, discover exciting career opportunities in the tech industry, and network with other students and professionals.

January 28 & February 19: WSU Vancouver Office Hours for MESA Scholars, MESA Center

We’ve partnered with WSU Vancouver and their admissions department to host office hours for MESA Scholars. WSU Vancouver’s Admissions Counselor, Laura Arellano-Karki, will be available to meet with students and support them through the transfer admissions process, including completing their admission application.

February 4: Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center Visit, Seattle

MESA will be taking students to the Fred Hutch Cancer Center to explore cutting-edge research, discover exciting internship opportunities, and learn about careers in cancer research and health sciences, participate in hands-on lab activity and tour lab facilities. Fred Hutch is renowned for its groundbreaking work in cancer treatment and its impact on both cancer and infectious diseases worldwide. As an independent organization, Fred Hutch also serves as the cancer program for University of Washington Medicine.

February 21: Portland State University Campus Visit, Portland, OR

MESA Scholars will visit PSU to explore their transfer options, learn about PSU academic programs, admissions, transfer process, financial aid, and to tour the campus.

March 5-9, 2015: Annual National Society of Black Engineers Convention, Chicago, Ill.

The NSBE Convention will gather students and professionals to promote Black excellence in engineering. The NSBE mission is to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community. Clark’s MESA program plans to take several scholars to participate in this impactful event.

March 14, 2025: iFLY STEM Field Trip and Indoor Sky Diving, Portland, OR

We will be participating in a fun indoor skydiving experience at iFLY Portland! iFLY offers STEM visits including learning about the engineering and physics behind their state-of-the-art wind tunnel. Students will participate in an immersive, hands-on lab activity before experiencing the thrill of indoor skydiving.

MESA Q & A

Q: What is MESA?

A: MESA (Math, Engineering, Science Achievement) is a national program designed to increase the number of historically underrepresented populations to succeed in STEM fields. This includes African American, Native American, Latino/Hispanic, and Pacific Islander/Hawaiian and women community college students who transfer to universities and earn STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) bachelor’s degrees. 

Q: When did Clark College begin its MESA program?

A: Clark College began its MESA program during the 2018-19 academic year.

Q: How many Clark College students participate in MESA?

A: Clark’s program can serve up to 100 students. It currently serves more than 60 students.

Q: Where is the MESA Center at Clark College?

A: Clark College has a dedicated MESA Center in the STEM building for studying and creating community, as well as opportunities for mentorship, assistance with books and fees, conference participation, campus visits, and more.

Learn more about MESA

• Website: Learn more here
• Email: rlaraalvarado@clark.edu
• Phone: 360-992-2225
• Book an appointment with MESA Director Román Lara here.

Student Beheshta Eqbali, a member of Clark’s Phi Theta Kappa honors society, has been named a PTK Visual Arts Award recipient for her painting Afghan Girl. Her work will be published in the 30th edition of Nota Bene, Phi Theta Kappa’s honors anthology, and she will receive a $500 scholarship. The anthology will be printed in 2025.

Eqbali is a student leader in the Activities Programming Board. Her painting is being displayed in the ASCC Student Life offices in PUB 160.

PTK Advisor Darci Feider said, “Beheshta is a valued member of Clark’s PTK chapter. We are so proud of her for receiving the PTK Visual Arts Award for her beautiful painting, Afghan Girl. We’re excited that her work will be published in Nota Bene, and we can’t wait to see her honored in the Parade of Scholars at the PTK Catalyst convention in April. It’s wonderful to see her talent recognized on such a big stage. Our chapter is thrilled to support her and to celebrate this incredible achievement!”

About PTK

Phi Theta Kappa is the international honor society for two-year colleges. PTK recognizes the academic achievement of college students and provides opportunities for its members to grow as scholars and leaders. Clark’s PTK chapter is Alpha Sigma Phi. Students are invited to join PTK when enrolled in at least 12 credits per term and achieve a minimum 3.25 grade point average.

Learn more about Clark’s PTK chapter here.

Q & A with Artist Beheshta Eqbali

Q: How long have you been painting?

BE: Art has been part of my life since I was a kid, but it became something much stronger in my teenage years and continues to be a powerful part of my life today. At first, painting was just a way to express myself without words. English is still new to me. Over time, though, it became something deeper, almost like therapy. It’s where I feel myself most, a space where I can share my thoughts and emotions without saying a word.

Q: What inspired you to paint Afghan Woman? Was there a specific person or event that inspired you?

BE: This painting is inspired by the courage and resilience of Afghan women, especially those who have faced unimaginable hardships yet carry strength in their eyes. It’s also deeply personal for me a way of staying connected to my culture and honoring the people who have shaped me. When I paint, I feel like I’m preserving a piece of my identity, even as I grow and adapt in a new world.

Q: What is the significance of your painting?

BE: For me, Afghan Girl is more than just a painting; it’s a reminder of where I come from and the heritage I carry with me. I see it as a silent storyteller, one that speaks of beauty, struggle, and quiet pride women into Afghan life. Through her expression, I hope others can feel the same depth of love and resilience that I see in my own people.

Q: What field are you studying at Clark?

BE: I’m studying web development because I love creating and problem solving, but painting remains close to my heart. My studies keep me grounded in technology, but painting keeps me balanced. It is where I can explore my creativity. It’s my place to be vulnerable and tell stories that go beyond the digital world and into something more personal. It’s a space where I can connect with my roots and share a part of myself that goes beyond the pixels on a screen.

Learn more

• See Beheshta Eqbali’s painting in the ASCC Student Life offices, PUB 160.
• Read more about PTK’s honors anthology, Nota Bene here
• Read last year’s 29^th edition of Nota Bene here

The Comic Club of Clark College hosted the highly anticipated release party for the sixth edition of The Iceberg annual comic anthology on December 5 in PUB 161. This year’s Iceberg marks the largest and most impressive volume to date, featuring comic stories by about 44 creators. Some creators had submitted multiple works, making this edition a truly collaborative and expansive showcase of talent from students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

The party kicked off with speeches from English professor Tobias Peterson and art professor Grant Hottle. Together, the pair makes a dynamic duo, co-advising The Iceberg. Peterson and Hottle thanked all the creators and members of the Comic Club for their dedication and hard work.

Comic Industry Guests

Then they introduced the four industry comic professionals who joined the event to offer invaluable feedback to the student creators. The industry guests included:

• Jeff Parker, artist and writer
• Matt Fraction, artist and writer
• Diana Schultz, translator and retired editor at Dark Horse Comics
• Steve Lieber, artist

During the first hour of the VIP session, these industry professionals gave valuable feedback, offering advice and critique to the contributing creators whose work was published in The Iceberg. By 2:00 p.m. another 20 attendees had joined the event. The industry professionals generously stayed beyond the scheduled end time, offering critique, advice, and encouragement until about 5 p.m., two hours past the event’s expected close.

Producing The Iceberg

The release of The Iceberg offers Clark College students a rare opportunity to have their comic work published and reviewed by established professionals. The publishing process follows the academic calendar. We will open for submissions in the winter term. We make decisions and print the book in spring. And then in the fall, we celebrate the book release.

Peterson shared that people in academics still think of comics as kids’ stuff. The reality is that these books are a hybrid form of storytelling that produces beautiful and complex stories that examine what it means to be human.

Professor Peterson said, “I love The Iceberg because it provides a showcase for students’ creativity and passion. The release event is a yearly celebration of why we, as educators, got into this business to begin with!”

Speaking about the importance of the release party, Professor Hottle said, “It is a chance for students to showcase their comics. Thanks to the generous support of ASCC, we can have students published and have industry professionals give direct feedback.”

This year’s edition is also special for its perseverance. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, The Iceberg continued to be published, with many students sharing their work and receiving feedback via platforms like Discord.

Being a Contributor

Students Majic and Amelia had their work featured in The Iceberg for the first time. Both said they found the feedback from the professionals to be incredibly beneficial.

Majic, a fine arts major with aspirations in comics, said the anthology offers students a platform to refine their craft. “The Iceberg gives you a taste of what to do in the industry,” Majic noted. “Submitting comics allows you to have industrial professionals critique my work. There were things I was doing that I received help on correcting to make my comic better.”

It’s rewarding for students to see their work in print and enjoyed physically by other people. It also helps us create more work for our portfolios and makes for a great item to leave behind at a job interview.

Contributor Amelia Newbie, Clark College alumni who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in digital technology and culture at WSU Vancouver, said, “Reading, enjoying, and sharing our comics helps us get our work out into the world!”

To find your free copy of the sixth edition of The Iceberg, look for the blue stands around campus to pick your copy up today.

Learn More

• For more information on The Iceberg and future events, stay tuned to Clark College’s Fine Arts department.
• Comic Club meetings are held on the first and third Tuesday of every month from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.
• Follow us on Instagram: @Clark.Iceberg
• Submit your comics for the 2025 Iceberg through May 5, 2025 via Submittable.

Photos submitted by Stephanie Wagner and Bryce Van Patten.

About 25 students from my online and remote courses gathered at Clark College on November 7 in Scarpelli Hall to eat pizza—lots of it! I typically throw a pizza party for my students every quarter and pay for it myself.

During the fall pizza party, each student also received a CS50 Rubber Duck. Alums and other friends were also in attendance. Quite a few students arrived after we snapped this picture. CS50 was kind enough to supply the rubber ducks!

Certificate from CS50 at Harvard

CS50 is Harvard University’s introduction to the intellectual enterprises of computer science and the art of programming. For the past several years, I have used CS50’s Introduction to Programming with Python curriculum in my Intro to Programming and Problem-Solving course at Clark. Dozens of students not only have earned credit from Clark College, but also a certificate from CS50 at Harvard University.

Here’s a video from CS50’s very own David J. Malan congratulating Clark students for earning their certificates.

Uniting Students over Pizza

I recently brought a taste of community to our online and remote coding classes—through pizza and a little piece of the iconic CS50! This pizza party wasn’t just about food; it was a chance to unite students who usually connect only through screens. There’s something about sharing pizza that goes beyond filling our stomachs. It breaks down barriers, opens up conversations, and lets us see the human side of coding, a profession often steeped in virtual interactions and code blocks.

Pizza is almost a universal language, and even in a digital classroom, it creates a sense of camaraderie. From coding newcomers to seasoned tech enthusiasts, students gathered, laughed, and bonded over slices, sharing their coding challenges and side hustles.

Moments like these highlight the importance of community—reminding us that while we work individually, we’re part of a larger team learning and growing together.

Why a rubber duck?

And what’s a coding celebration without a twist? Each attendee walked away with a CS50 rubber duck. In case you’re wondering why a rubber duck, it’s not just a quirky gift—it’s a legendary problem-solving tool in coding circles!

Rubber duck debugging encourages students to explain their code out loud, often helping them uncover solutions simply by verbalizing their thought processes. Now, every student has a little buddy to “talk” to while tackling their toughest challenges.

Whether solving bugs or sharing a laugh, we’re more connected, engaged, and inspired than ever. Here’s to pizza, ducks, and the strong coding community we’re building at Clark College!

Republished from LinkedIn
Photos courtesy of Bruce Elgort.

Hundreds of Clark College students and their family members flocked to the STEM Building for the Second Annual Free Holiday Market on the afternoon of December 4. This well-received event that was first offered last year is back by popular demand.

The Free Holiday Market gives students and their families an opportunity to shop for holiday gifts for their families and themselves — without the financial burden. Started in 2023, the annual event invites students and family members to shop at more than 50 tables laden with items donated by generous staff, faculty, and administrators.

This year, more than 350 students and guests shopped for gifts. Before the event even began, students eagerly lined up, and the steady flow of shoppers continued throughout the event. Parents helped children pick out toys, students scanned items looking for gifts for their families and friends, and staff working the tables helped students find gifts that might be a good fit for their recipients in mind.

The planning committee expanded the market’s offerings by handing out snacks and including more children’s crafts activities. A new free clothing table was also a popular addition. They even hosted a new door prize, which pulled tickets throughout the event for the opportunity to win large items.

Chef Alison Dolder, head of the Professional Baking & Pastry Arts program, first had the idea to host a free student holiday market and was on the planning committee. She said, “I think it was really nice to see a real sense of community and to see Clark show students how much we care.” Referencing the COVID-19 pandemic that drove the community off-campus, she added, “It was nice to see everyone in one place again.”

How it works

• Students registered to participate as shoppers. Upon arrival, shoppers were given free tickets so they could shop.
• Students also get a special ticket for a door prize drawing for big-ticket items like giant penguin plushies or waffle irons.
• Employees ran the event and students from various student groups volunteered to help at the event.
• Staff, faculty, and administrators donated new or gently used gift items such as toys, games, puzzles, books, clothing, jewelry, craftwork, and household items. Every item can be ‘purchased’ with free tickets.
• Departments and individuals from around the campus hosted gift tables.
• Representatives from various support services were present.

Ongoing opportunities to give to students

• WES Giving Tree: Collecting new hats, gloves, scarves, hand warmers, socks, and throws for students and their families through January 10, 2025, in GHL 215.
• Basic Needs Hub: Donate here to this brand-new hub designed to connect students with essential resources for student success.
• Clark College Foundation: Check out the many ways our Foundation has set up to support our students through payroll deduction or one-time donation to any specific causes.

Special Acknowledgments

This year’s event is sponsored by the ASCC club, NERD Girls & GEEKS, along with the Engineering program and the McClaskey Culinary Institute.

Thank you to this year’s organizing committee:

Tina Barsotti
Alison Dolder
Judi Georgeades-Tambara
Stephanie Hall
Carol Hsu
Fay Shorten
Lucy Winslow

Excerpts from Dennis’ nomination

“Dennis consistently demonstrates exceptional work performance, going above and beyond his assigned duties. His innovative approach to problem-solving has led to significant efficiency improvements within Enrollment Services and across the college. Dennis possesses a strong work ethic and consistently delivers high-quality work, even under tight deadlines. He is highly organized and detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in all his tasks. His ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances and learn new technologies has been invaluable to the department.”

“Dennis has made significant contributions to the college community through his leadership in several key areas. As the Lead Query Developer, he has supported the query development process for Clark College, with a focus on improving efficiency and accuracy for all users. He has also taken on the role of a subject matter expert for ctcLink, providing valuable training and support to staff across the college. Dennis has been instrumental in enhancing our use of the PeopleSoft system.”

“Dennis is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment. He actively participates in diversity and equity initiatives, such as attending workshops and training sessions. He is respectful of all individuals, regardless of their background or identity, and creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all. Dennis is dedicated to ensuring equitable access to higher education for all students. He works diligently to assist students from diverse backgrounds, including first-generation, low-income, and international students, in navigating the enrollment process and accessing the support services they need to succeed.”

About the Classified Staff Awards

Established in 2005, the Classified Staff Excellence Award recognizes classified staff who have demonstrated exemplary work performance, a positive and cooperative spirit, special achievements, or contributions to the college community, and supports individual and organizational diversity and inclusion. Through the support of the Clark College Foundation, the recipient will receive a $400 cash award.

Criteria: Nominees must be a current classified employee who has been in their current position for more than six months. Award recipients will not be eligible for another award for three years.

Nominate A Deserving Colleague

Do you know a colleague who deserves this recognition? Nominate them for this award.

Visit the Clark College Employee Recognition page to learn more about this award and other ways to acknowledge the value and dedication of our staff and faculty.

Learn more about the Classified Staff Award.

Fall term’s Engineering Design Competition featured an edible building material: Pasta!

Teams constructed towers with dry pasta. They could use any type of pasta, and the towers ranged from round rigatoni beauties to tall, elegant lasagna sculptures. And there’s another catch: the towers had to have spaces for two small toy penguins to stand.

On the day of the competition, towers were tested for their ability to withstand force. They used an “Instron machine” to test the towers, which imposed increasing load on the towers. Some of the pasta towers burst with the force, making for an exciting minor pasta explosion.

The goal of the pasta towers was to reach a minimum of 20 Newtons of force, but many towers achieved taking hundreds of Newtons of force and some even hit over 2700.

Carol Hsu, an engineering professor who led the project, said “Watching the towers get crushed is always exciting, especially when it is catastrophic! In this competition, the students were challenged to design towers capable of withstanding a specified range of loads. Every team rose to the challenge with their pasta towers. Their success was largely due to prototype testing. Great job!”

Tina Barsotti, another engineering professor, explained that the project was devised by the students themselves. “Really what we’re teaching is the engineering design process.”