Clark’s Allied Health programs honored this year’s graduates with two noteworthy ceremonies, celebrating the achievements of our nursing and dental hygienist programs.

Dental Hygienists Stand Proud in Purple

Graduates and families were dressed to the nines at this year’s Dental Hygiene Senior Recognition. It was an elegant affair, with purple balloons and flowers – the program’s signature color – adding to the celebratory experience.

Students and faculty had a lot to celebrate. This year’s dental hygienist students examined 651 patients, completed 76 weeks of school, and passed 64 exams – a testimony to the time and effort they put into building their futures. As Danielle Hovey, this year’s student speaker put it, “You can’t spell HARD without an RDH.”

But the hard work paid off. Throughout the evening, students were honored with awards, accolades, and heartfelt gratitude for their dedication to their education.

“You remind people that they matter,” Professor Kristi Taylor said in her welcome toast. “Just by showing up and doing what you do best.”

Clark Vice President of Instruction, Dr. William ‘Terry’ Brown spoke to the graduating class, sharing a story about his first time at the clinic, when student Liliya Dudko pointed out something on his x-ray that no dentist of his had ever caught before and then encouraged him to practice proper dental care.

“That is the care and passion that clinicians ought to have for their patients,” said Dr. Brown.

In addition to honoring the graduates, the evening recognized the newest inductees of Sigma Phi Alpha National Dental Hygiene Honor Society: Zoe Demming, Courtney Smoke, and Kayley Ward. Additionally, students were presented with numerous awards that showcased the dedication of the graduating class. Congratulations to:

• Kayley Ward, The Western Society of Periodontology Student Award
• Leisa Perrin, The Colgate STAR Award
• Amber Nicotra, The Student-Voted Pure Award
• Allana Guild, The Golden Scaler Award

At the conclusion of the event, students also presented awards to the instructors. Each instructor was given a plaque engraved with a saying or lesson that they had shared with the class this year. It was the perfect way to highlight the relationships that were formed among students and faculty throughout the year.

About Clark’s Dental Hygiene Program

The Dental Hygiene program provides classroom and clinical experiences that successfully prepare students for the national board exam and various clinical licensing exams. Students serve the community by participating in oral health programs in area schools and caring for patients at the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington and other local facilities serving the community. Upon completion of the program, students earn a Bachelor of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene Degree.

A Milestone moment for Nursing Program

Clark College recently celebrated a historic achievement—its 150th nursing cohort—with a heartfelt pinning ceremony honoring 24 graduates. More than just a tradition, the event marked the culmination of rigorous training and the beginning of a new chapter in healthcare. Each graduate was joined on stage by a chosen supporter—whether a parent, partner, or close friend—who placed the nursing pin as a personal message was read aloud. A slideshow of photos and quotes added to this tribute.

Graduate Keaton Wilbanks spoke on behalf of the class, highlighting the clinical and academic experiences shared by the cohort. “We shared many firsts—first codes, first live births, first times facing death, our first experience with postpartum care, and having discussions with patients about conditions that will kill them,” Wilbanks said. “We showed up, we stayed, we supported each other. Somewhere along the way, we stopped being students in competition and became nurses as part of a much bigger community.” Wilbanks post-graduation plans include traveling the country with his wife, and work in critical care before applying to CRNA school with plans to be an anesthetist.

The ceremony included remarks from Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards, Vice President of Instruction Dr. William “Terry” Brown, and Associate Dean of Nursing Jennifer Obbard. Professor Gabriele Canazzi provided a history of the nursing pin, and Professor Halina Brant-Zawadzki brought the graduates roses and read The Rose That Grew from Concrete by Tupac Shakur.

Jenny Fredrickson presented Emily Johnson with the Clinical Excellence Award. The award is based on professionalism, communication, clinical preparation, use of the nursing process, and organization. Johnson passed her NCLEX-RN exam and has been accepted to a residency position in critical care at Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital. She will also be starting the BSN program at Washington State University in the fall. The ceremony concluded with the nursing pledge, led by Angie Bailey and Mckenzie Montalvo.

History of the Nursing Program at Clark College

Clark College’s nursing program began during World War II, offering Nurse’s Aide training in response to labor shortages. In 1964, the college graduated its first class of 15 nurses from a newly developed associate degree program. Jean Hamilton, the program’s first director, helped establish the program—the first of its kind in the Pacific Northwest and the fifth in the country. She designed the curriculum to be transferable, enabling graduates to pursue higher degrees.

Prior to that, most nursing education occurred in hospital-based programs. When St. Joseph’s Hospital closed its nursing school in the mid-1950s, Clark College began offering practical nursing courses to meet regional demand. The program has continued to evolve, preparing nurses for entry into the profession and further academic study.

It was an evening to remember at the Cascades Amphitheater as hundreds of students from Clark College crossed the stage to celebrate a milestone that, for some, had been years in the making. Pomp and Circumstance played throughout the loudspeakers as students made last-minute adjustments to gowns and straightened their caps before stepping through the double doors to the Amphitheater and into the next chapter of their lives.

To say students were excited would be an understatement; they didn’t file into the Amphitheater – they floated in, with pride and hope for the future carrying them to their seats. Families waved and hollered enthusiastically from the audience when they spotted their grad entering, their cheers echoing across the arena.

Each of this year’s 2,131 graduates savored the moment their name was called. Some waved their scrolls at the audience as they crossed the stage, and one even jumped and whooped after President Dr. Karin Edwards handed him the document. Each of these inspiring graduates represents the next generation of leaders, workers, scholars, and dreamers in Southwest Washington and beyond.

As Dr. Edwards said to the graduates in her closing remarks: “Your impact will send ripples far into the world and will touch lives in ways you may never know.” And we are Penguin Proud of them!

2025 Commencement Highlights

This year, Clark College conferred a total of 1,915 degrees and certificates and recognized 2,131 graduates. This is a 32% increase in graduates from last year.

By the Numbers

This year’s graduation numbers have grown significantly since last year:

• 2,131 graduates – up 32%
• 1,614 associate degrees awarded – up 35%

  • 1,291 of those were direct transfer degrees for students continuing to four-year universities – up 26%

• 903 career-technical graduates earned workforce-ready degrees or certifications – up 66%
• 604 Running Start students received both a high school diploma and a college credential – up 35%
• 580 professional certificates earned in a wide range of career-ready disciplines – up 66%
• 133 bachelor’s degrees awarded in applied fields like management, cybersecurity, dental hygiene, and human services – up 39%
• 100 adult high school diplomas – up nearly 59%

Coming Fall 2025: Degree Programs on the Rise

Dr. Edwards highlighted Clark’s new offerings, which are expanding to meet the needs of the region’s growing industries. Some graduates have elected to continue their education in the following areas this fall:

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – the college’s first BS degree
• AAT in Surgical Technology – the first of its kind in Southwest Washington
• Advanced Manufacturing Program – includes two new certificates and an integrated technology degree

Words of Wisdom from the Stage

Commencement speakers offered heartfelt reflections and encouragement to the graduating class.

President Dr. Edwards’ sentiments came full circle as she reminded students of her message on unity at the beginning of the year:

“As future leaders, thinkers, and change-makers, everyone is responsible for carrying this spirit of unity into the world. Strive to bridge gaps, foster collaboration, and create environments where everyone feels valued and included, whether in workplaces, communities, or schools. Use your collective knowledge, talents, and passions to create a brighter, more unified future.”

Clark College Board of Trustee Chair Denise Gideon above, shared the story of her own educational journey to show that we too often only see the finished product and not the perseverance it took to get there. She left graduates with this message:

“Stop measuring your worth against someone else’s journey. Your path is your own. And it is enough. While this chapter may be closing, I encourage you: don’t close the book. Stay open to the possibility of continuing your education – on your own timeline, in your own way. You have what it takes to go as far as your dreams will carry you.”

CCAHE Faculty Union President and Professor of Communications Studies Suzanne Southerland affirmed to the graduates that, in a time of disinformation and extreme divide, the world needs THEM.

“It needs your ability to work with passion and tenacity, it needs you to stay informed and to stay involved, it needs your problem solving and your sense of humor, it needs your capacity to care, your sense of right and wrong and your love for your fellow human. We need your ability to think deeply and act ethically and with compassion. So go out there and question authority and challenge those systems that just aren’t working.”

Student speaker Malina Siharath, above, who earned a direct transfer associate in arts degree,urged the Class of 2025:

“Your box may feel safe, but the steps you take outside of it will set you free. Trust in yourself, and the rest will follow. And as you walk across the stage tonight, diploma in hand – we’ll take that first step together. It’s time to step out of the box.”

Special Student Recognitions

The 2025 Community College Presidents’ Award, in honor of Val Ogden, was presented to Gurraj Singh Dhami, who impressed the Presidential Scholarship Task Force with his academic excellence, leadership, work ethic, and drive to help others and give back to his community. This annual scholarship is awarded to a Clark College graduate who is transferring to Washington State University – Vancouver.

In his application, Gurraj shared, “Higher education is the door to my dream. It helps me grow, learn, and one day, give back. I want to make my family and community proud. This is because I want to honor everyone important in my life – my grandparents, parents, and sisters.”

With the help of the Clark College Foundation, two additional students were recognized with $1,500 scholarships:

• Josh Bergstrom graduated with an associate in arts degree and plans to continue his studies in political science and eventually attend law school with the goal of becoming a congressman.
• Dorji Damdul graduated with an associate in arts degree in Business Administration with plans to study finance and become a financial advisor.

In Their Own Words

Before the ceremony began, students mingled with faculty members outside the Amphitheater, sharing the stories that brought them to where they are today.

Lucinda Nieves, who earned her AA in Health Information Management, proudly represented the Quinault Tribe by wearing a cedar-woven cap, continuing a longstanding tradition in her tribe.

As her cap stated, Lorelei Steuben was truly “Made to Teach.” She asked all of the students in her student teaching class to sign her cap – a reminder of the lives she touched that she could carry with her across the stage.

After coming to the United States as a homeless 10-year-old, Veronica Bustillos didn’t know what college was, so she didn’t even consider higher education an option. She went through setbacks but also had four beautiful children – they are what kept her on track when she was struggling. Because of them, she proudly stood on that stage as a first-generation graduate with a bachelor’s degree in human services. She even received a full-ride scholarship to PSU to pursue a master’s degree in social work.

“When I got the honors cord, I about died,” Veronica shared as she straightened the many pieces of regalia on her shoulders. “I’d been working my butt off to get good grades. I’ve never been a good student, so that meant a lot to me.”

Fortunato Hernandez Espinoza earned his diploma from Clark alongside his daughter, Miriam Espinoza. Miriam and the rest of his family are the ones who motivated him to continue his studies, as he wanted to achieve a better life for them. He hopes this education will help him reach the next level in his career.

With pride (and a bit of humor), Kat Skvartsova showcased her post-graduation on her cap. She’s known she’s wanted to be a pharmacy tech since sitting in her high school chemistry class – after falling in love with the subject, she became determined to find a career in the pharmaceutical field.

Jennifer McMillan earned her nursing degree, a longtime dream that she pursued after losing her job after the pandemic hit. After her husband passed away on her second day in the nursing program, she knew that he would want her to continue chasing her dreams. Now, she works at The Vancouver Clinic, putting to use the degree that she overcame so much to earn.

Relive the Excitement

Browse photos from the 2025 Commencement on Flickr or watch the ceremony on YouTube!

Photos: Clark College

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.

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.

Congratulations, William (Tre) Sandlin, Instructional Accessibility Specialist in the Teaching and Learning Center for receiving the Spring 2024 Classified Staff Excellence Award.

A warm congratulations to the other award nominees:

• Laura Borgman, Secretary Senior, Transitional Studies Division
• Stephanie Hall, Secretary Senior, WPTE+ STEM Unit
• Sergey Kachenkov, IT System Administration Entry, Library Services
• Abby Ocean, Fiscal Specialist 2, Facilities Services
• Brandi Roberts, Communications Officer 1, Security & Safety Services

Excerpts from Tre’s nomination:

“Tre takes the necessary time to assess the impacts of our work could have on his peers. I have the privilege of working with Tre creating accessible content. His awareness of trauma and racism and how they come into play for the content we see and deal with has made all the difference to me. For example, we were enrolled in a class about mass genocides, and one week covered mass genocides in Africa. Instead of passing that content onto me, a Black colleague, he took on that work. I could visibly see the effects it had on him. He expressed his knowledge of how racism played in mass genocides and his understanding of how that content could have affected me.”

“He serves on the art committee, and he has worked to make sure that the art being displayed is inclusive and diverse.”

“Tre works incredibly hard to make sure students have access to their learning materials so they can be successful in class and at the college regardless of their identities, experiences, or abilities. He is the fastest accessibility editor I have ever met, and he is always ready to offer support, encouragement, and expert guidance to faculty and staff who are trying to improve the accessibility of their work.”

“Tre is so clearly committed to creating a world where all people are welcome and treated with respect and dignity. Tre has contributed greatly to checking the Braille signage at both the main campus and CTC as part of his work with the universal design committee. Tre just recently finished his year as part of the BUILD program and is continuing to work with his project partners. Honestly, Tre’s contributions to the college cannot be emphasized enough in terms of his work ethic, his sustained efforts to improve accessibility, and his support of students and colleagues. Tre is always striving to learn more and do better to create a more inclusive and caring workplace for all of us.”

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.

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. 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.

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

Learn more about the Classified Staff Award.

Clark College’s own Chef Aaron Guerra competed in the Soup’s On Battle of the Chefs fundraiser for SHARE at Ilani Casino Resort in Ridgefield on Sunday, Oct. 15.

Chef Aaron was one of nine celebrity chefs who created a delicious soup for the event. Each chef prepared about 20 gallons of their soup, which was sampled by more than 800 soup tasters who lined up, bowls in hand. Everyone had an opportunity to vote for their favorite soup, bestowing the winning chef with the Golden Ladle. The winner was Chef Joe Reid, Hudson’s Bar & Grill for his beer cheese soup with rye croutons and brisket burnt end sausage.

Before the event doors opened, all nine chefs sat down for a soup tasting. Each voted for their favorite. They were not allowed to vote for their own soup. Chef’s Choice Award was a four-way tie between the chefs representing AC Hotels Marriott, Line & Lure Seafood Kitchen & Tap and Kuya’s Casa Kitchen. Heathen Brewing was awarded the top soup by the presenting sponsor.

Alas, Chef Aaron did not win the Golden Ladle Award this year, but his delicious corn and crawfish chowder was eaten up by appreciative soup tasters.

Chef Aaron used these ingredients: crawfish, butter, flour, white onion, fresh roasted corn, milk, heavy cream, bell peppers, red potatoes, celery, garlic, Italian parsley, green onions, Cajun seasoning, salt and pepper, chives and bread croutons.

He said, “My team of students and I made everything from scratch with the freshest ingredients. We roasted ears of corn and made corn stock with the cobs and student-made croutons.”

It took a large volume of ingredients to make enough chowder for 800 people. Chef Aaron and his team used 24 pounds of crawfish meat. They roasted 40 pounds of corn on the cob, then cut a quarter of the corn from the cob and made stock from the cobs.

SHARE’s Soup’s On celebrity chefs and their soups:

• Aaron Guerra, Tod and Maxine McClaskey Culinary Institute at Clark College prepared crawfish and corn chowder
• Tanner Genck, AC Hotels Marriott prepared Deadpool’s chimichanga soup
• Michael Garafolo, Heathen Brewing Feral Public House prepared Hulk’s smashed squash soup
• Joe Reid, Hudson’s Bar & Grill prepared Guardians of the Gourmet beer cheese soup with rye croutons and brisket burnt end sausage
• Fernando Martinez, Kuya’s Casa Kitchen prepared Levanta Muertos (revive the dead) soup
• Ryan Ziegler, Line & Lure Seafood Kitchen & Tap prepared coconut chicken curry soup
• Bobby Rasaphangthong, Nom Nom Restaurant & Grill prepared wonton soup
• Micheal Castaneda, Woody’s Tacos prepared hearty beef stew
• Brandon Edgerton, Wyld Pines Public House prepared lobster bisque

About SHAREand its Soup’s On: Battle of the Chefs event:

SHARE’s Soup’s On event began in 2002 and originally was called Share-a-Bowl.

SHARE’s Executive Director Amy Reynolds said, “The event first began as a way for community members to better understand the experience people have each day when they wait in a ‘soup line,’ just as hundreds of our neighbors do each day at SHARE’s Hot Meals kitchen.”

She added, “SHARE has done incredible work in the community for the past 45 years and with so many people living outside and experiencing food insecurity, there is clearly much more work to do.”

SHARE provides food for all ages—including through its backpack program for kids, operates four shelters, provides rental assistance with case management to help clients secure affordable housing, and assists people living on the streets as well as those in risk of losing their home. Learn more here.

Dr. Kathy Chatfield has been recognized for her outstanding efforts toward improving digital learning at Clark College.

Chatfield, who leads the college’s eLearning and instructional design department, has received the Ron Legon Leadership Award for Quality Digital Education bestowed by Quality Matters and MarylandOnline. The award is reserved for singular contributors to the mission of continuous improvement in digital learning.

Quality Matters is an international leader for quality assurance in online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. Chatfield is among five award recipients who have demonstrated an exceptional dedication to quality in digital learning.

Chatfield’s work of improving online experiences for students includes building sustainable quality assurance processes at the institutional level. Clark College began offering online classes in 2005. Online classes were the first to fill and the first to put students on a waitlist.

Quality Matters stated: “The Ron Legon award acknowledges the impact Chatfield’s leadership has had on faculty, staff, students and the educational landscape at large through her steadfast devotion to the pursuit of quality assurance.”

In their recognition, Quality Matters added: “Chatfield represents a strong voice at both the college and state levels, where she helps sustain support for the importance of quality standards in online learning. At Clark College, she works to maintain the culture of professional development she has built among the institution’s faculty. As a member of the Washington State eLearning Council, she has championed statewide adoption of effective policy on digital learning.”

“I am very honored to have been selected as the recipient of this year’s Leadership Award for Quality Digital Education,” Chatfield said. “The rigor and dedication to quality that is involved in education and peer-reviewed course design through the Quality Matters organization inspires us to always strive for better, stay on a path of continuous improvement and seek greatness in our students’ learning. I am proud to represent Clark College in this endeavor.” Chatfield will accept her award at a ceremony during the QM Connect Conference Nov. 5-8 at the Radisson Blu Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. She has been asked to speak about what the award means to her.

“I’m diligently working on my speech,” Chatfield said. “My aim is to inspire others to leadership in eLearning and to recognize Clark College as being a leader, itself, in this field.”

Chatfield has served in higher education for 34 years at eight institutions. She has worked at Clark College since January 1995. She has taught part-time in person and online. She has served full-time in the eLearning and Instructional Design department since 2006.

About Quality Matters

Quality Matters is a global organization leading quality assurance in online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. It provides a scalable quality assurance system for online and blended learning used within and across organizations. QM certification marks on courses or programs means they have met QM course design standards or QM program review criteria in a rigorous review process. Learn more at here.

Clark College welcomed a new trustee and said farewell to an outgoing trustee at its June 7 Board of Trustees meeting. 

Board President Paul Speer and Clark President Dr. Karin Edwards welcomed Marilee Scarbrough to its governing board and thanked Trustee Rekah Strong, who has served on the board for a decade. She is the executive director of Educational Opportunities for Children and Families.  

Dr. Edwards said, “Rekah has been a champion for Clark College. She cares deeply about students and their families and promotes education as an equalizer for those who have been marginalized. Her intentional actions and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion have fostered meaningful cultural change during her tenure here.” 

Marilee Scarbrough, an attorney, has been general counsel for the Vancouver School District since 2011. Previously she served as the policy and legal services director for Washington State School Directors’ Association, and attorney for the Washington State House of Representatives’ Higher Education Committee. Scarbrough holds a Juris Doctor from University of Oregon and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature from Whitman College.  

“I am excited to serve my community in this new role,” said Trustee Scarbrough. “I look forward to working with the Clark College board and administration to inspire learners to excel, transform lives, and strengthen our increasingly diverse community.”

2023-24 Board of Trustees 

• Chair Paul Speer
• Vice Chair Cristhian A. Canseco Juarez 
• Jeanne Bennett  
• Denise Gideon 
• Marilee Scarbrough 

About Clark College Board of Trustees 

Each of the five members of the college’s Board of Trustees is appointed by the governor of Washington and serves a five-year term. They must live within the college’s service district, which includes Clark, Skamania and western Klickitat counties. 

The board seeks to ensure the quality and relevance of college programs and provides stewardship of public resources. The board is responsible for strategic planning, development and approval of college policies, and approval and oversight of the operating budget. Learn more here. 

Photo: Clark College/Jenny Shadley

Bruce Elgort, a professor in Clark College’s Computer Technology department, was granted tenure unanimously by the Clark College Board of Trustees on May 24. 

Tenure is awarded by the college’s trustees based on professional excellence and outstanding abilities in their disciplines. The granting of tenure is based on the recommendations of tenure reviews 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 evaluations by the faculty member being considered, the tenure review committee, students, supervisors, and peers. The final decision to award or withhold tenure rests with the Board of Trustees. 

Bruce Elgort earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in electrical engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, New Jersey. He earned his Master of Science in engineering management from New York University, New York.  

Experience in the field 

Prior to teaching, Bruce worked for more than three decades in the field, including Elguji Software (founder/CEO); Sharp Microelectronics (strategic business operations, IT manager), and Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (office services and IT manager, manager of marketing and communications, and electrical engineer). In addition, he was an independent international consultant for more than a dozen clients including Price Waterhouse Cooper, US Social Security Administration, US Department of Agriculture, Washington State Department of Transportation, Honda and more. Bruce is recognized by IBM and Amazon Web Services for being an innovative thought leader in cloud and artificial intelligence technologies. 

Bruce joined Clark College in 2012 as a Computer Technology instructor. He serves on the Universal Design committee and Advanced Manufacturing committee. He is called on by staff and faculty as an accessibility expert. Bruce has received the Exceptional Faculty Award twice. 

Teaching philosophy  

You’ll find this technology professor working hard to inspire and challenge his students with meaningful web development and programming experiences. Bruce loves to tinker and test the boundaries of existing and emerging technologies, to then guide hungry minds through memorable, educational journeys to showcase with passion the ever-evolving innovations of society.  

Photos provided by Bruce Elgort

Nine outstanding educators were granted tenure unanimously by the Clark College Board of Trustees. They were honored at a college reception on May 16. These newly tenured faculty members are:

• Katy Anastasi, Libraries
• Dr. Tanya Diaz-Kozlowski, Women’s Studies
• Wade Hausinger, Welding
• Mark Keats, English
• Jesse Kysar, Engineering
• Alejandra Maciulewicz-Herring, Medical Assisting
• Marisol Moreno Ortiz, Libraries
• Tom Olsen, Digital Media Arts
• Amy VahnDijk, Nursing

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.

Katy Anastasi, Libraries

Katy Anastasi earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in American studies from Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota and her Master of Library and Information Studies from Queens College (City University of New York) in New York City. She began her career working in community college libraries in 2018 as an adjunct librarian and Open Educational Resources (OER) fellow at Borough of Manhattan Community College. After moving to Oregon in 2019, she began working at Portland State University as a reference librarian and OER publishing assistant.

Katy joined Clark College in Fall 2020 as a tenure-track reference and instruction librarian. She co-leads Clark College’s OER steering committee and serves on the library’s user experience committee, as well as the Clark College Faculty Excellence Award committee. Since 2020, she has worked collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students to develop culturally relevant academic library collections and library services for incarcerated students and their instructors at Larch Corrections Center. She received Clark’s Faculty Excellence Award in 2022.

Tanya Diaz-Kozlowski, Ph.D., Women’s Studies

Tanya Diaz-Kozlowski earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from the University of Wisconsin Parkside, Kenosha, Wisconsin in 2001 and her Master of Science degree in college student personnel from Eastern Illinois University, Charleston in 2003. She earned her Ph.D. in education policy, organization and leadership with a focus in social and cultural foundations coupled with certificates in gender and women’s studies and Latino/a studies from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2015. She supervised, advised, and mentored students and co-created programs in residential life, Greek life, orientation, and cultural programs at Eastern Illinois University and at The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign from 2001-2008.

Tanya has diverse experiences teaching and advising undergraduate and graduate students, creating department level curricula and assessments, and teaching interdisciplinary undergraduate/graduate courses in gender, women’s, and sexuality studies and Latinx studies from teaching, advising, and mentoring students at Illinois State University and The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Over the last three years, Tanya has published peer-reviewed articles in The Association of Mexican American Educators Journal, The Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Education, and The Journal of Lesbian Studies.

Tanya started teaching at Clark College in Fall 2020. She completed the Teaching Squares program in 2021 and the college’s BUILD Program in 2022, a yearlong employee development program providing intensive training in power, privilege, and inequality.

William (Wade) Hausinger, Welding Technology

Wade Hausinger has worked in the welding industry for his entire career. He first learned welding, drafting and blueprint reading as an Evergreen High School student. At Clark College he earned his GED and completed leadership skills training. He has worked in the welding industry since 1989 and was certified for industry-related professional training on the job. He starting as a welding fabricator and working his way up to pipe fitter/welder, pipe shop foreman, shop welding foreman, and metal fabrication foreman. His former employers include Christensen Shipyard, Electro, Cascade General Shipyard and GI Welding.

Wade began teaching welding at Clark College in 2017 as an instructional technician and became an instructor the following term. He made tenure track in 2020.

Mark Keats, English

Mark L. Keats earned his Associate of Arts degree in English from Howard Community College. He then earned a Bachelor of Arts in Japanese language and literature and a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Maryland, College Park. He began teaching at Howard Community College and taught for six years before returning to graduate school, where he earned a Ph.D. in literature and creative writing from Texas Tech University. He taught for one year at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas before accepting a job at Clark College.

He began teaching at Clark College Fall 2020 as a tenure track candidate. He currently serves on the literature committee. He has participated in English and campuswide professional development and training.

Jesse Kysar, Engineering

Jesse Kysar earned an Associate of Science Transfer degree in physics at Lower Columbia College in 2011. He transferred to Washington State University in Pullman, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics and a Bachelor of Science degree in material science and engineering, both in 2014.

While he was enrolled at WSU, he worked as a student researcher. After he graduated, he worked as an engineer I, industrial applications at nLight, which produces high-power semiconductor lasers and fiber lasers. He also worked as a mechanic and heavy equipment operator in the construction industry.

Jesse began teaching at Clark College as an adjunct faculty member in Fall 2018, then worked as temporary full-time faculty before starting his tenure journey in 2020. In addition to teaching in the engineering department, he also teaches materials science in the welding department. At Clark, he serves as the department lead in program outcomes assessment. He is one of two faculty experts on the advanced manufacturing curriculum leadership team.

Alejandra Maciulewicz-Herring, Medical Assisting

Alejandra Maciulewicz-Herring earned her Associate of Arts degree in pre-nursing at Clark College. She also earned a Certificate of Proficiency, medical assistant, Concorde Career College, Portland; Certificate of Proficiency, emergency medical technician, Linn-Benton Community College, Albany, Oregon; and an American Association of medical assistant certification.

Her career in the healthcare industry includes working as a medical assistant, pediatrics medical assistant, and an administrative medical assistant in internal family medicine, physical therapy, and pediatrics clinics. Her former employers include Allergy Clinic, Internal Family Medicine, Columbia Asthma & Allergy, Creekside Medical, Stargait Physical Therapy, and Miller’s Family Pediatrics.

Alejandra began teaching full time at Clark College in Fall 2020. She is involved with outreach events to promote the college’s Allied Health programs.

Marisol Moreno Ortiz, Libraries

Marisol Moreno Ortiz earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Oregon State University in Corvallis, a Master of Arts in English from Portland State University in Portland, and a Master of Library and Information Science from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisianna. Before entering her full-time library position at Clark College, Marisol worked part time at the library at Linn-Benton Community College, where she also taught information literacy and supported student learning.

Marisol began her current full-time position at Clark College as reference and instruction librarian in Fall 2020. She serves on a tenure committee and is a supportive member of the OER steering committee. Marisol is a mental health advocate, privacy advocate, and focuses on diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice in librarianship.

Thomas Olsen, Jr., Digital Media Arts

Thomas Olsen, Jr., earned his Bachelor of Science degree in political science from the University of Oregon, Eugene, and his Master of Fine Arts degree in film and television production (emphasis in film and television producing) from Chapman University, Orange, California. He is a documentary film producer through his company Anchor Pictures. Thomas also has taught at Portland Community College, Portland State University, Warner Pacific University, and The Art Institute of Portland.

Thomas began teaching at Clark College in Fall 2020 as a tenure-track professor. He serves as the advisor for the college’s Cinema Club and on the digital media arts advisory board. Thomas also volunteers for the Cannon Beach Historical Society and Museum.

Amy VahnDijk, Nursing

Amy VahnDijk earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at Washington State University Vancouver and her Doctor of Nursing Practice as a family nurse practitioner at Washington State University. Before entering the teaching profession, she worked as a family nurse practitioner at The Vancouver Clinic. Amy has more than a decade of professional nursing experience.

Amy began teaching at Clark College in 2020 as a tenure track tenure candidate. She currently serves on the nursing library committee and nursing tenure track hiring committee.

Photo: Clark College/Jenny Shadley