2002 News Release Archive
January to April l May to December
These are outdated news releases and advisories that are posted here for archival purposes. Current news releases can be accessed by clicking the "INDEX" link below or "News Releases" button at left.
INDEX l 2011 l 2010 l 2009 l 2008 l 2007 l 2006 l 2005 l 2004 l 2003 l 2002 l 2001
December 19, 2002
College Searching for Land for New Campus
The search is on. With an eye toward the future, College of the Canyons is looking for land in the eastern Santa Clarita Valley that will eventually be home to a satellite location of the Valencia campus.
The Canyon Country Educational Center, as it will be known, will be a full-service educational facility serving an area where many of the college’s students already live. Research conducted for the college’s most recent strategic plan shows 32 percent of students reside in the eastern side of the community, with more than 18 percent of students in Canyon Country and nearly 14 percent in Saugus. That fact, coupled with enrollment trends showing that the Valencia campus will be near capacity by the end of the decade, necessitate establishing a second facility in the Santa Clarita Valley.
Identifying possible sites is one of the most important steps in the process of developing a site. The college has enlisted the help of community members by forming a Canyon Country Educational Center Site Selection Committee. The ad hoc group is comprised of Canyon Country area residents and community leaders. It will meet for six to eight months to investigate and analyze potential sites. Then, based on its research, it will recommend the most suitable site to the college’s Board of Trustees.
The college is aware of several possible sites but is hoping to hear from landowners and developers who might know of additional property that might be suitable. Ideally, the college would like to find a site in the eastern Santa Clarita Valley that has at least 50 buildable acres.
Those interested in working with the college to identify or offer property should submit written communication to Dr. Dianne Van Hook, Office of the President, College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.
December 18, 2002
College Program Recognized for Excellence
The College of the Canyons Associate Program for Adjunct Instructors was recognized as one of California's exceptional educational programs by the Community College League of California.
The Associate Program is a series of interactive workshops and activities that help the college's adjunct professors learn more about the practice and principles of teaching. Those principles include:
- Teaching is more effective when based on communication between the teacher and the learners;
- Teaching is more effective when students are actively involved; and
- Good planning makes teaching more effective.
"It's always a big boost for a program to know that what you do is appreciated," said Russ Richardson, a professor who serves as coordinator of the Associate Program.
The Community College League announced the "Celebrating the Way California Learns" award during its annual convention, which was held in San Jose Nov. 14 to 16. The award recognizes college personnel who have created outstanding learning environments and enhanced the learning of both students and employees.
Participants in the Associate Program are asked to demonstrate their teaching practices and discuss them with other faculty members. One hundred sixty five adjunct professors have completed the program, with demand outpacing available slots.
Helping to coordinate the program are Susan Crowther, professor and director of the MESA program; Joe Gerda, professor; James Glapa-Grossklag, professor and director of the PACE program; Victoria Leonard, professor; Rebecca Shepherd, professor; Diane Stewart, assistant dean of child development and Education, and Linda Trexel, adjunct professor.
The program also has received a prestigious Hesburgh Award certificate of excellence.
December 6, 2002
Give the Gift of Education this Holiday Season
If you've been struggling with finding the perfect gift for that certain someone, that hard-to-shop-for relative, that “I’m not happy with any gift you give me” person, then College of the Canyons may have the answer to your dilemma. This holiday season, the College of the Canyons Alumni Association and Friends has designed a non-traditional gift that will keep on giving the gift of education.
The program is simple. Anyone can set up a scholarship through the COC Foundation to honor a friend, relative, family or business. For example, Jonathan R. Hickman, a local attorney at Hickman Law Offices, gave a gift of education to honor his employee Carol Higgins. Hickman also has established the Hickman Business Scholarship. Students can apply for these scholarships through the College of the Canyons Scholarship Office.
The procedure to set up a scholarship fund is simple. Any amount can be donated to a scholarship fund and if the scholarship fund is to bear a particular name, a $200 minimum donation is required. All donors will receive personalized certificates, suitable for framing, which can be presented to the person being honored during holiday time.
Donations made now will be used for scholarships that will be awarded to applicants in the spring of 2003. All donations are tax-deductible.
December 6, 2002
Operation Santa at College of the Canyons
NEWS ADVISORY
WHAT: Each year, students in the Spanish language program collect letters to Santa from underprivileged kids and provide written responses to them. This event reveals not only the magical and honest belief that some kids have in Santa’s ability to help, but also the extent to which there is real need in our region. Many of the letters are touching, poignant and filled with genuine love and emotion. The program also raises funds and collects gifts of clothing, blankets, school supplies and food certificates for needy families.
WHERE: Student Dining Room, College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita
WHEN: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 7
November 20, 2002
COC Student Art Exhibition and Sale Scheduled
The second-annual College of the Canyons student holiday art exhibition and sale will take place from Dec. 5 to 14 in the college's art gallery. Sales will benefit both student artists and the Friends of the Fine Arts, the college foundation's support group. The exhibition and sale will include art works from across the creative disciplines.
"I am always impressed with the quality and uniqueness of student art," said Sue Bozman, director of public information at the college. "As we head toward the holiday gift-giving season, this exhibition and sale provides a unique opportunity to view and purchase truly one-of-a-kind gifts and support good causes at the same time."
The college's art gallery is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. The gallery is closed Sundays and holidays. The gallery is located in the Media and Fine Arts building on campus.
Admission to the gallery is free. A $1 parking permit may be obtained from the machines in the south parking lot and in lot #6. Attendees may park in any regular parking space in the student lots.
November 7, 2002
College of the Canyons to Host Board of Governors
NEWS ADVISORY
WHAT: The California Community College Board of Governors will meet in a regularly scheduled session on the College of the Canyons campus for two full days conducting system-wide business.
The Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges sets policy and provides guidance for the 72 districts and 108 colleges, which constitute the system. The 16-member board, appointed by the state governor, formally interacts with state and federal officials and other state organizations. The Board of Governors selects a chancellor for the system. The chancellor, through a formal process of consultation, brings recommendations to the board, which has the legislatively granted authority to develop and implement policy for the colleges. Additionally, each of the 72 community college districts in the state has a locally elected board of trustees, responsive to local community needs and charged with the operations of the local colleges.
During the two days, members of the board will familiarize themselves with College of the Canyons - its programs and facilities - while interacting with COC staff and faculty.
The two-day meeting will consist of a number of separate committee sessions (open to the public) on Tuesday, Nov. 12, and conclude with an open session from 9:30 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Nov. 13. During this open meeting, a public forum will be provided for anyone wishing to address the board.
WHERE: College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita
WHEN: Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 12 and 13, 2002
WHO: The Board of Governors consists of 16 members.
October 29, 2002
McKeon Announces $800,000 Award to University Center Project
NEWS ADVISORY
WHAT: Announcement of the first large award of funds from an outside source in support of the Santa Clarita Valley University Center project. The project will bring universities and their bachelor through doctoral degree programs to the COC campus in a building to be constructed with donated funds on COC property.
WHERE: College of the Canyons Library, Room R-206, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita
WHEN: 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 31
WHO:
- Congressman Howard P. “Buck” McKeon
- Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook, Superintendent-President, College of the Canyons
- Kathleen Maloney, Director, COC Foundation
October 23, 2002
College of the Canyons to Host Regional Public Hearing on Education
NEWS ADVISORY
WHAT: Public hearings sponsored by the federal Office of Adult and Vocational Education (OVAE) on the reauthorization of programs under the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act of 1998 and related issues, including Federal support for secondary school reform and reauthorization of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act, Title II of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.
WHERE: Student Dining Room, College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita
WHEN: Friday, October 25, 2002
- 9 a.m. to noon -- Testimony will be taken on the reauthorization of programs under the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act of 1998 and related issues, including federal support for secondary school reform.
- 1 to 4 p.m. -- Testimony will be taken on the reauthorization of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act, Title II of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.
WHO:
- U.S. Rep. Howard P. “Buck” McKeon, 25th Congressional District
- Assistant Secretary Carol D’Amico, Office of Adult and Vocational Education (Washington, D.C.)
- OAVE staff
- Members of the public wishing to give testimony
October 23, 2002
College of the Canyons Fulfills 'Wishes' for Michael Hoefflin Foundation
NEWS ADVISORY
WHAT: College of the Canyons AmeriCorps Program will be wrapping and delivering "Wish Granted" baskets to young cancer victims in conjunction with the Michael Hoefflin Foundation. Under the auspices of the Hoefflin Foundation and a nationwide program called "Make a Difference Day," the COC AmeriCorps group solicited donations and gifts to fulfill requests on cancer patients' wish lists. This day is the culmination of the program when young cancer patients will have their wishes fulfilled.
WHERE: Student Center, College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita
WHEN: Saturday, October 26, 2002
- 9 a.m. to noon -- Volunteers will wrap gifts, preparing them for delivery.
- 1 p.m. -- The Hoefflin family arrives, loads gifts and at 1:30 heads out to deliver "Wish Granted" baskets.
WHO: COC AmeriCorps volunteers and the Hoefflin family
October 15, 2002
Budding Artists Exhibit Presented at College Art Gallery
The College of the Canyons Art Gallery will present an exhibition entitled “Budding Artists,” consisting of works created by students in the college’s Center for Early Childhood Education. The exhibition will run from Nov. 12 to 26. Admission is free.
The exhibition includes several group projects in painting and sculpture, as well as individual drawings, easel paintings, collages and prints. The artists range in age from toddlers (18 months) to preschoolers (5 years). The Center for Early Childhood Education, COC’s training lab for early childhood education teachers and caregivers, has always encouraged its students to explore diverse kinds of art materials.
Students in the art curriculum set up their own gallery, called “Emerging Talents,” in the childhood center. Cam Valenzuela, director of the center, worked with the gallery director, Joanne Julian, to develop the exhibition, which reflects the enthusiasm and talents of the children.
Families of the student artists and members of the public are invited to attend a special reception at noon Tuesday, Nov. 12 in the gallery. Visitors to the gallery may obtain a parking permit from the vending machine in lot #6 or the south parking lot on the COC campus. This permit will allow parking in any student lot.
Gallery and store hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. The gallery is closed Friday, Sunday and holidays.
October 10, 2002
College Receives $436,000 to Train Local Workers
The College of the Canyons Employee Training Institute (ETI) has received an 18-month contract that will help local employers provide critical skills for their workers. This is the fifth, consecutive contract of this type that the college has received since 1996. California's Employee Training Panel has awarded COC a grant of more than $436,000 that will help subsidize training for nearly 600 workers over the next two years.
Employers who take advantage of training their workers through the ETP programs can expect that employees will learn skills that can reduce waste; reduce the amount of dollars tied up in work-in-progress; reduce the number of items requiring rework; increase stock turnaround; and, most importantly, improve their business by increasing profits.
The training focuses on skills improvement, such as training on specific machinery, or on increasing the knowledge base of trainees through improved leadership skills, teaching employees about strategic business planning, and exposing workers to the concepts of Lean Manufacturing and Best Laboratory Practices. Basic knowledge skills are also taught in classes such as Electricity for Maintenance Workers and other similar courses.
A key element of training provided by the Employee Training Institute is that it customizes training to the needs of businesses. The ETI works closely with Valencia Industrial Association members to identify the broad range of local industry training needs. The ETI meets with management, supervisors and employees of the businesses requesting training and then crafts training specifically to address those needs.
"As a result of ETI training, we have companies that have made changes in their corporate cultures," said Pamela Welden, director of the Employee Training Institute. "These fundamental changes have resulted in improved communication among employees and between departments," said Welden, "that have led to reduced costs, improved quality, and increased profits."
The training programs offered through the ETI are generally available to manufacturers, companies with their corporate headquarters in California and firms with out-of-state competition.
Sept. 24, 2002
Standard First-Aid Class Offered by Community Extension
College of the Canyons Community Extension Office is offering a six-hour first-aid class that will help update general first-aid skills for those who haven't practiced their skills in a while. The class will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19.
The course, taught by Raymond Burke, BS, CSFA, is targeted to lay responders and involves lecture, hands-on practice of victim assessment; treatment for bleeding and shock; treatment of wounds and burns; as well as dealing with head, spinal, chest, pelvis and abdominal injuries.
Burke, a certified instructor for the American Heart Association and American Red Cross, will also cover the treatment of fractures, sudden illness, poisoning, bites and climate-related emergencies such as hypothermia and heat stroke.
The fee for the Standard First Aid Class is $60. Advance registration is recommended.
This is one of the many "fee-based, self-supporting" educational opportunities offered by College of the Canyons Community Extension and is not associated with the taxpayer-supported, credit classes offered by the college.
September 19, 2002
More than 50 Institutions Slated to Attend Annual Transfer Day
Representatives from more than 50 educational institutions are scheduled to be on hand for College of the Canyons’ Transfer Day on Sept. 24.
This once-a-year event is designed primarily for those students who plan to transfer to four-year institutions, although prospective students also may attend to receive one-on-one guidance regarding four-year college transfer requirements.
A wide range of institutions plans to attend. Among them are San Francisco Art Institute, UC Berkeley, Brooks Institute of Photography, University of Hawaii, Montana State University, University of Wyoming, Air Force ROTC, California Institute of the Arts, Northern Michigan University, USC and Mount St. Mary’s College.
Nearly two-dozen universities from the University of California and Cal State University systems also plan to attend.
This free event is scheduled 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, between the C and M buildings. College of the Canyons is located at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road in Santa Clarita.
Sept. 13, 2002
Animation Professor Wins Two Awards in New Orleans Film Festival
College of the Canyons Animation Professor Sheila Sofian has won two prestigious awards in the 2002 New Orleans Film Festival. Her film, “A Conversation with Haris,” won the grand prize and the best animated film award.
“A Conversation with Haris” is a painting-on-glass animated film that describes an 11-year-old Bosnian boy’s personal experiences with war. Sofian’s film is one of some 500 that were submitted for the 14th-annual festival, which gets under way Oct. 10.
Sofian, who also serves as chair of the college’s Animation Department, is no stranger to recognition. Both “A Conversation with Haris” and “Survivors,” an experimental documentary animation about domestic violence, have received past awards.
Additionally, Sofian was recently awarded a coveted Guggenheim Fellowship for “Truth Has Fallen,” an ongoing feature-length film project about James McCloskey and his crusade to free from incarceration people wrongly convicted of capital crimes.
Sofian studied at The United World College of South East Asia in Singapore and Old Dominion University in Virginia before receiving her bachelor-of-arts degree in film animation from the Rhode Island School of Design. She completed her master of fine arts at California Institute of the Arts. Her work has been used in a wide range of media - from feature films to television series to Internet sites.
Sept. 11, 2002
Program to Assist Non-Profits in Writing Grants
College of the Canyons will host a "Meet the Grant-Makers" seminar for Santa Clarita Valley non-profit agencies and local higher-education institutions on Monday, Sept. 30. The seminar is designed to help non-profits learn the ins and outs of seeking additional funding through grants. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon in the COC Library's Public Gallery.
Seminar participants will be Fred Ali, president of the Weingart Foundation; Ken Gregorio, senior program officer of the California Community Foundation, and Tony Newhall with the Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation. These "grant makers" will present information regarding their foundation's funding priorities and grant-making guidelines. They will also conduct a question-and-answer session as part of the program.
Admission to the event is free.
Sept. 12, 2002
Applications Available for Popular Preschool Program
College of the Canyons is accepting applications now for its popular Preschool and Toddler Program at its Center for Early Childhood Education. Openings are currently available in the 4-year-old classroom and in the toddler program (18 to 23 months).
"This is an excellent opportunity to involve young children in a program that encourages social, emotional, intellectual and physical growth," said site director Cam Valenzuela. The Center for Early Childhood Education offers a fully certified and credentialed teaching staff.
Both half- and full-day schedules are available Monday through Friday in the fall. Half-day sessions are scheduled 8:45 to 11:45 a.m. and 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.; full-day sessions run from 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. The program is open to all members of the college and the community.
Parents who meet minimum income standards may qualify to receive free or reduced-rate enrollment in the program. For example, a two-person household that earns $30,228 or less per year would qualify for free preschool.
Sept. 10, 2002
COC, Valencia Libraries Team for Steinbeck Centennial Celebration
The College of the Canyons and Valencia libraries are partners on a grant from the California Council for the Humanities that is designed to promote the John Steinbeck centennial celebration.
The two libraries, in conjunction with libraries across the state, are sponsoring book discussions, film presentations and other events relating to "The Grapes of Wrath."
Free events sponsored by Valencia Library include:
- 2-4 p.m. Sept. 29 Folk singer Ross Altman presents a program called “The Ballad of Tom Joad: Woody Guthrie and the Grapes of Wrath.” The event will be held in the library’s community meeting room.
- 2-4 p.m. Oct. 6 Chris Simon presents a program called “Down an Old Road: The Poetic Life of Wilma Elizabeth McDaniel.” McDaniel turned the experience of Okies into literature through her poetry. This event will be held in the library’s community meeting room.
- 1:30-3 p.m. Oct. 26 Members of a local reading group will lead a panel discussion of "The Grapes of Wrath" in the community meeting room.
The library has also purchased extra copies of "The Grapes of Wrath" for the public to check out if they wish to read the book before attending any of the activities.
A free event sponsored by the College of the Canyons Library is:
- 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct.5 A screening of John Ford’s 1940 classic motion picture version of "The Grapes of Wrath," starring Henry Fonda. The movie will be followed by a panel discussion and question-and-answer session with several College of the Canyons faculty members. The movie will be shown in the Media & Fine Arts Building, Room M-318.
About John Steinbeck: Beginning in the 1930s, John Steinbeck had created for himself a unique place in American literature and culture as a writer in touch with the political and social human drama. With the 1939 publication of The Grapes of Wrath, Steinbeck provided the world with its most searing and enduring images of American rural poverty, disillusionment within the promise of The American Dream, and regional and class tensions in America.
The Grapes of Wrath, along with In Dubious Battle (1936) and Of Mice and Men (1937) provided a searing look at the economic depression and natural disasters of the depression era. Through his short stories about California farmers, The Long Valley (1938), The Pastures of Heaven (1932) and his novels about California ethnic groups, Tortilla Flat (1935), and down-and-out workers, Cannery Row (1945), Steinbeck had, by the mid-1940s, become and remains a "household name."
Steinbeck focused on the life and plight of the common person throughout his career with poignant descriptions in The Moon is Down (1941), East of Eden (1952), and The Pearl (1947), and the viewing of "Viva Zapata! (1952)." He covered World War II, the cold War and Vietnam. He died in 1968.
Sept. 6, 2002
Sept. 11 Observance at College of the Canyons
College of the Canyons invites the community to attend a noontime ceremony commemorating the victims of terrorist attacks on America last Sept. 11. The event will be held near the flagpole in the center of campus. The ceremony itself will have no speeches or performances. A carillon (chime) system heard throughout campus will play a variety of dignified and patriotic selections appropriate to the occasion. It will last about 15 minutes.
“This day is an important day of remembrance,” said Phil Hartley, vice president of instruction and student services at the college, “remembrance of those who tragically lost their lives, remembrance of the countless acts of heroism, the incredible courage of our citizens who put the safety of others ahead of their own, and remembrance of the demonstration of the American spirit that did not falter in the face of this infamous act of terrorism.”
Hartley added that the no-speech format was selected because “the impact and meaning of the events of Sept. 11 within the hearts and minds of every individual cannot be accurately captured by any single group of words. We want to provide a quiet time, a time to gather together to remember and reflect.”
The college’s Associated Student Government will have a large-form, blank book available at the ceremony site so that community members, faculty, staff and students may record their thoughts and feelings on this first anniversary of the tragic events. The book itself will be presented to the College of the Canyons Library as a historical archive of the day.
The event will begin promptly at noon with musical selections beginning after the chimes for the noon hour. Campus motorized carts will make runs from parking lots to the Honor Grove to accommodate those who may need assistance in getting to the ceremony. No chairs will be provided, although community members may bring their own if they wish to sit.
Sept. 5, 2002
Chancellor Comments on Governor's Signing of 2002-03 Budget
SACRAMENTO - California Community Colleges Chancellor Thomas J. Nussbaum issued the following statement upon the governor’s signing of the 2002-03 budget:
“The State’s massive budget deficit will be felt by the California Community Colleges and our students in very real ways. While I recognize that the Governor and the Legislature have made sure, even in these most difficult economic times, to provide the community colleges with some increases for our core operations and for some enrollment growth, the reality is that our enrollments are growing much faster than the state support. Our students are beginning to see the effects as classes get larger, the number of available courses declines, and students learn they cannot take courses they need to graduate or transfer to four-year colleges and universities. California’s community colleges have been heroic in their efforts to do more with less. Our dedicated faculty, staff and administrators will continue to everything they can to meet the demand for community college education. But unless significant revenues are found in time for next year’s budget, we will be putting at risk higher-education opportunities for many of our state’s citizens, with potentially serious societal and economic impacts.”
The final 2002-03 Budget provides $4.9 billion in total funding for the community colleges system. This represents a net increase, after accounting for various cuts, of $84 million (or 1.8 percent) over 2001-02. However, since funded enrollment is expected to grow by 3 percent, funding on a per-student basis actually declines by 1.2 percent. Making matters worse, actual enrollments are growing close to 6 percent. Thus, the system already is serving over 40,000 full-time equivalent students -- more than the entire enrollment of UCLA -- without state funding.
The final 2002-03 Budget provides $110 million less than the previous year for various categorical programs that provide vital services, including: student counseling services, work-study jobs and other assistance for students who are CalWORKS recipients, and faculty and staff development. The final community college budget as signed by the Governor is $20 million less than the budget passed by the Legislature over the Labor Day weekend.
August 23, 2002
Art Exhibition Explores Eating Disorders
 The College of the Canyons Art Department Gallery announces the gallery exhibition entitled "Eating Disorders in a Disordered Culture" by Robin Lasser and Kathryn Sylva. The exhibition will run from Sept. 10 through Oct. 19. Admission is free.
Both visual artists hold teaching positions at California universities, each having been personally touched by the suffering of many with eating disorders. Both Lasser and Sylva have seen many of their students' struggles with eating problems and body image. Lasser is currently an associate professor and coordinator of the photography department at San Jose State University. Her art is concerned with environmental, social and health issues. Sylva is an assistant professor of design at the University of California, Davis. In her teaching of design and in her creative work, she emphasizes social and humanitarian issues.
"Eating Disorders in a Disordered Culture" explores the personal, cultural and historical dimensions of eating disorders. This multi-faceted project is especially designed for a gallery exhibition. College of the Canyons Art Department is sponsoring this exhibition to promote education and awareness of eating disorders on campus and in the community.
Members of the public are invited to attend a question-and-answer session with the artists at noon Wednesday, Sept. 11, in the gallery. To attend the exhibition, visitors may obtain a parking permit valid in any student lot from the vending machine in lot #6 or the south parking lot on the COC campus.
Gallery and store hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. The gallery is closed Friday, Sunday and holidays.
August 7, 2002
Innovative College-Hospital Partnership Tackles Nursing Shortage
College of the Canyons is doing its part to address the nationwide nursing shortage by partnering with a local hospital to create an innovative new program designed to attract more prospective nurses to the field.
The doors to the new Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital/College of the Canyons Clinical Education Center, a 1,400-square-foot standalone facility on the hospital’s campus, will open for the program’s first class of students this fall.
Setting this program apart from those that preceded it is the fact that nursing students will receive both training and employment in a real-world setting.
“This is a very exciting and positive development for the nursing program at College of the Canyons,” said Sue Albert, assistant dean of the college’s Allied Health Department. “It will allow us to expand and sets a great precedent in the state for industry-educational collaboration to address the need for high-quality nurses.”
A key component of the new program is the hospital’s employment of a select number of student nurses, who will be hired at 80-percent pay for 67-percent time. This arrangement is designed to give students steady paychecks, time to study and incentive to succeed.
Indeed, a recent study focusing on California Community College associate degree nursing programs determined that situational factors among nursing students often hamper their educational pursuits and are a significant barrier to their success.
“Lack of money and material resources is frequently a problem for many community college students and they must often work part- or full-time to support themselves or help support their families,” according to the study by The Center for Student Success. The report cited such situational factors as changing work schedules and responsibilities as common reasons for students dropping out of nursing programs.
College of the Canyons’ new program is designed to allow nursing students to concentrate more fully on their chosen careers by learning and working in a real hospital environment in their own community, Albert said.
The opening of the center comes nearly a year after Albert testified before Congress about the college’s success in attracting nursing students and the very real challenges they face in trying to juggle educational pursuits with other commitments.
“I’m not talking scholarships; I’m talking living expenses,” she told the House Committee on Education and the Workforce in September, explaining that the federal government must offer financial assistance to colleges and students to build up the pool of qualified nurses. The situation is no longer just a shortage, she added. “It’s a crisis.”
The nursing shortage is particularly severe in California, which ranks second lowest in the country in terms of per-capita nurses. The state will need at least 25,000 new nurses over the next several years just to keep up with population growth, Albert said.
It is hoped that the College of the Canyons partnership with Newhall Memorial will help the situation - at least on a local level, she said.
“Investing in nursing as a profession demonstrates the hospital’s commitment to this community,” said Andie Bogdan, spokeswoman for the hospital.
The hospital donated the Clinical Education Center to be used as a comprehensive teaching lab, agreed to pick up the cost of a full-time nursing instructor for two years and will pay for students’ tuition and other costs.
Stipends for nurse mentors also will be offered, with funding provided by the college’s Cooperative Work Experience Education program.
The nursing education facility also will be shared with the William S. Hart Union High School District’s Regional Occupational Program.
August 7, 2002
CSUN, Woodbury to Offer Degree Programs at University Center
University Center at College of the Canyons continues to generate excitement and build momentum. The newest additions to the roster are Woodbury University and California State University, Northridge, bringing to eight the number of partners.
Cal State Northridge will introduce a master’s degree program in educational administration, and Woodbury will offer an MBA program and a bachelor’s degree program in business and management.
A number of advanced-degree programs have already begun at the college, even though the planned University Center has yet to be built. An interim building for University Center programs was completed in January to meet demand.
The idea behind University Center is to bring bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs from a wide range of universities to the College of the Canyons campus, eliminating the need for local residents to commute to distant campuses
Already, the number of other participating institutions includes California State University, Bakersfield; California State University, Fresno; Chapman University; ELS Language Centers; Nova Southeastern University and University of La Verne.
August 7, 2002
Bellas Named Director of Center for Applied Competitive Technologies
Peter Bellas has been named director of the Center for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT) at College of the Canyons. Bellas replaces Dena Maloney, who now serves as dean of economic development at College of the Canyons.
Bellas, a 25-year resident of the Santa Clarita Valley, comes to College of the Canyons from Citigroup’s e-Citi division where he directed training and development for the ATM manufacturing facilities and the company’s Internet/e-commerce groups.
“His background in technology and training will enable him to make a significant contribution,” Maloney said. “He is moving CACT in an exciting direction, with an emphasis on new engineering design methods, robotics and a continued outreach to our high school students.”
August 7, 2002
Manufacturing Program to Offer 12-Week Planning Course
A 12-week course in a series of classes designed for manufacturing professionals will be offered this fall by the Center for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT) and the San Fernando Valley Chapter of APICS.
The course, Fundamentals of Planning, will meet once a week for three hours beginning Sept. 18. Participants will learn the principles of strategic and tactical planning, and how to work together as a team to solve problems and develop solutions.
“Through this course, participants will learn the essential ingredients of effective planning and have an opportunity to practice and enhance their own skills,” said Peter Bellas, director of the college’s Center for Applied Competitive Technologies.
The course is part of the four-module Fundamentals of Materials and Operations Management program, which was created to teach the fundamentals of inventory control, planning, manufacturing control and operations management.
August 7, 2002
College of the Canyons to Present Digital Manufacturing Seminar
If you have a manufacturing business, what is the next logical step from the so-called “Lean Manufacturing?” How do you address the demand for product customization? And, can your business take advantage of digital manufacturing?
These and other questions will be addressed during a special seminar hosted by College of the Canyons’ Center for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT) and Suresh Jayanthi of MassCus Technologies.
“Digital Manufacturing: The Journey from Mass Production to Mass Customization” is scheduled 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Sept. 24, at the Hyatt Valencia. A continental breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m.
Mass customization is a new paradigm in product creation that levels the playing field between large and small manufacturers. Small manufacturers gain efficiencies and cost reductions, while large manufacturers gain agility and customer responsiveness.
The seminar will cover the concepts of mass customization, which is poised to become a significant industry trend, and stimulate thinking on ways to integrate it as part of a competitive business strategy. Planners, engineers and business development leaders will benefit from learning about the current state of this technology.
Cost for the seminar is $25 per person.
August 7, 2002
Latin Soul Artist Leslie Paula to Give FREE Concert on Campus
NEWS ADVISORY
What: The public is invited to attend a FREE concert by Leslie Paula and her Latin Soul Band. This is a special performance that will cap the weeklong Intensive Spanish Institute at the college. Paula’s more than three-octave vocal range enables her to sing a wide range of musical styles from pop to R&B to jazz. She recently performed on Town Center Drive in Valencia, and her talents have been on display on numerous radio stations and at such events as the Playboy Jazz Festival, the Oscar Night Governor’s Ball and the Emmy Night Unity Dinner. The band includes her father, Mike Gutierrez, a seasoned vocalist and conga player in his own right who has shared the stage with such luminaries as Peggy Lee, Andy Williams, Tito Puente and Poncho Sanchez. Paula’s latest CD, “Temas de mi Corazon,” was released in July.
When: Noon to 1 p.m. Friday, August 9, 2002
Where: Outdoors, between the Student Center and Administration Building, College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita
Background: Leslie Paula is a Santa Clarita Valley resident, as is her business manager, Anthony J. Lennon. Paula’s CDs will be offered for sale during the concert, with $5 from each sale donated to the college’s Spanish Institute.
June 17, 2002
National Science Foundation Awards $2 Million to COC-led Consortium
The National Science Foundation awarded a $2 million grant to a College of the Canyons-led consortium of community colleges and universities for the creation of a new Regional Center for Information and Manufacturing Technology based at College of the Canyons. The center will serve as a hub for the development of new educational programs and training for students and teachers in the fields of manufacturing and information technology.
Scheduled to be funded over the next three years, the grant will expand an already-existing program - the California Regional Consortium for Engineering Advances in Technological Education (CREATE) - to a greater scale.
Implemented in the fall of 1997, CREATE brought together community colleges and businesses in an effort to produce new technology-related educational programs, expand existing ones and provide professional development for teachers in technology, so they can provide hands-on training to students. CREATE relies on the expertise and resources of seven Southern California community colleges - College of the Canyons, Antelope Valley College, Allan Hancock College, Cuesta College, Moorpark College, Santa Barbara City College and Oxnard College - to provide specialized training in specific engineering technology fields ranging in breadth from Cisco, NetPrep and Microsoft systems training to manufacturing technology to robotics. This partnership allows students enrolled at one campus to transfer to any other college in the consortium to take classes in a specialty area. Since 1997, CREATE has educated more than 3,500 students, developed and implemented 30 new degree programs and 105 new courses, and has facilitated more than $1 million in cost-sharing through innovative industry and college partnerships.
The CREATE Regional Center will now take this mission further by increasing feeder classes for students and training opportunities for teachers at the high school level, developing workshops for community college professors, creating internship and job-training opportunities with local businesses, expanding and implementing regional programs in network security and wireless and telecommunications technologies, and developing transfer agreements with four-year universities.
Currently, five universities have agreed to become part of the CREATE Regional Center. They are Cal State University, Northridge; Cal State University, Channel Islands; Cal State University, Fresno; Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Pomona.
June 17, 2002
Fact Sheet on National Science Foundation Grant
What is the purpose of the grant?
The National Science Foundation awarded this grant to a College of the Canyons-led consortium - the California Regional Consortium for Engineering Advances in Technological Education, or Project CREATE - to be expanded into a Regional Center for Information and Manufacturing Technology.
How much is the grant?
The grant totals $1,992,915. The grant will be funded in three installments over the next three years, beginning July 1, 2002.
Is this College of the Canyons money?
No, although College of the Canyons will act as fiscal manager with authority to disperse funds as needed. While some of the funds may be received by College of the Canyons departments involved in the creation of the regional center, College of the Canyons may use these funds only for that purpose.
What is the purpose of this regional center?
The center will have seven goals:
1. Training of part-time community college faculty entering the classroom for the first time in becoming more adept teachers
2. Develop hands-on workshops and stand-alone lesson plans for high school and community college educators in technology; aimed at both teaching the teachers in basic technology skills, providing resources for use in the classroom and increasing feeder programs at the high school level
3. Increase the number of bachelor’s degree programs in technology available at four-year universities and increase their accessibility by bringing them to community college campuses, similar to the College of the Canyons University Center program
4. Create a system for developing a greater number of internship opportunities with business partners
5. Develop, adapt and implement regional programs in network security, wireless and telecommunications technologies and manufacturing technology
6. Evaluate and contrast the success of students who have completed technical certifications on-line vs. in-class
7. Implement a model of evaluation that follows past, present and future students as they enter the workforce
What is the significance of a regional center?
A regional center provides other institutions with advice, guidance, materials and resources. There are currently fewer than two-dozen regional centers across the country. This will be the only one based in Southern California.
What is Project CREATE?
Project CREATE began as an NSF-funded partnership in 1997 among seven community colleges in Southern California. These colleges included: College of the Canyons, Allan Hancock College, Moorpark College, Santa Barbara City College, Antelope Valley College, Cuesta College and Oxnard College. The project’s mission was to increase enrollment in science and technology courses at community colleges and develop and offer hands-on technical training to both community college and high school faculty.
Has Project CREATE succeeded?
As of the fall of 2001, more than 3,000 students were enrolled in CREATE courses, which exceeded the project’s goal of 2,000. A total of 30 new associate and certificate programs have been created at community colleges in engineering, manufacturing, electronics and information technologies, doubling its goal of 15 programs; 105 new courses were also developed.
Which four-year universities have become involved?
Currently, five four-year universities have become involved. These universities are: California State University, Northridge; California State University, Channel Islands; California State University, Fresno; Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Pomona. Emphasis is being placed on creating more bachelor’s degree programs in science and technology and offering them off-site at community college locations, thereby increasing their accessibility.
How will success be evaluated?
Evaluation will be a major component of the project An evaluator will work with the project staff to develop evaluation questions and an evaluation plan for each year, develop appropriate information-gathering techniques, collect data, analyze data and write an annual report. The reports for the first two years will help assess ongoing project activities. The report for the final year will assess project success, or the extent to which completed projects have met goals.
Who is in charge of this program?
The Regional Center Director is Kathy Alfano, Ph.D. Alfano has been director of Project CREATE since its inception in 1997. She also served as Dean of Educational Technology and Professional Programs at College of the Canyons from 1996 to 2000.
Where will this regional center be located?
The main office is on the College of the Canyons campus. The office phone number is (661) 362-3368.
What is the National Science Foundation?
The National Science Foundation is an independent agency of the U.S. government, established by the National Science Foundation Act of 1950. The Foundation consists of the National Science Board and a director, each appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the U.S. Senate. NSF’s mission is to promote the progress of science, to advance national health, prosperity and welfare and to secure national defense. NSF does this in a variety of ways, including awarding graduate fellowships, initiating specific activities designed to support the use of technology and computers, and by awarding grants and contracts to programs designed to strengthen scientific activities in educational settings.
June 17, 2002
'Just For Fun' Summer Classes Offered by Community Extension
Summer is finally here. While many people live for the day that school is out, the weather is nice and they can kick back a little, the specific list of those "fun" things to do during the summer just hasn't come together the way they had hoped. If this describes you, then College of the Canyon Community Extension may be able to help. A wide variety of interesting and entertaining classes and activities have been developed for the summer that will bring smiles to a lot of faces. A few of these classes are:
Cartooning and Storytelling (ages 8 -14) -- This is a class taught by Emmy Award-winning director, Mike Vosburg, who is currently an illustrator for Harry Potter. The course is designed to teach younger students the basics of the art of cartooning by learning simple drawing techniques and then using them to tell stories. Vosburg's classes will meet from 5 to 7 p.m. on five Mondays, from June 24 through July 22. The fee for the course is $85.
Fine Arts Camp (ages 7-12) -- Art camp students will learn the basics of drawing, painting, cartooning and clay sculpture during a fun-filled week. The course is taught by multi-award-winning artist, Lorelle A. Miller, who has more than 20-years experience in the field of visual arts. The Fine Arts Camp will meet from 10 a.m. to noon, from June 24 to 28; or from July 15 to 19; or from Aug. 5 to 9. The fee for the course is $65 plus materials to be purchased from a list provided.
The Magic of Table Manners (ages 6 -10) -- This is the ever-popular class taught by Milli Pinckney that helps young folks deal with the universally difficult task of bring peace, calmness and civility to the dinner table. She will teach students how to behave at the table and in restaurants and help them learn how to eat difficult-to-control foods like peas, spaghetti, sauces and other foods that end up more on the table cloth than in the mouth. The Magic of Table Manners meets from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 29 or Saturday, July 27. The fee for the class is $29 plus an $8 lab fee that includes a full meal.
Self Empowerment From the Inside Out (ages 12-17) -- This workshop helps define personal boundaries, create self-esteem and release creativity -- three powerful elements in a young person's life. Karen Farris, a counselor, healer and bodyworker for more than 15 years, teaches the workshop based on her book MESHE, HESHE, MISON & ORBIT: What My Grandmother Taught Me About The Universe. The workshop meets from 1 to 3 p.m. on five Wednesdays between July 3 and July 31. The fee for the course is $49 with a $35 materials fee collected in class.
Self Empowerment From The Inside Out, Advanced (ages 12-17) -- This workshop provides for more personal attention in the MESHE process and teaches about the HESHE concept, presenting practical insights into relationship struggles such as jealousy, participation in conflict and self-responsibility. The beginning course is a prerequisite. Taught by Karen Farris, the class meets from 1 to 3 p.m. on four Wednesdays between Aug. 7 and 28. The fee for this course is $39 with a $10 materials fee collected in class.
These classes are just some of the many "fee-based, self-supporting" classes offered by College of the Canyons' Community Services and are not associated with the taxpayer-supported, credit classes offered by the college.
June 14, 2002
Computer Boot Camp Offered to Grandparents
In a world where it seems like kids are born with computer skills and intuit things that the rest of us struggle with, College of the Canyons Community Extension Office has developed a class that will level the playing field. It is called Grandparent's Computer Boot Camp and is designed for grandparents to attend a computer class with their grandchildren in order to explore the world of computers together.
The class is taught by Paddy Ordway, who has more than 20 years of computer experience and teaches other computer boot camps at the college. He describes the class as a hands-on workshop in which grandparent and grandchild can learn to navigate the Internet, to surf and search for topics of interest as well as how to send and receive e-mail. And, he adds, "It is a great way to spend some quality time with your grandchild!"
The fee for Grandparent's Computer Boot Camp is $49 per pair (1 child and 1 grandparent). This is one of the many "fee-based, self-supporting" educational opportunities offered by College of the Canyons' Community Extension and is not associated with the taxpayer-supported, credit classes offered by the college.
June 4, 2002
Class Focuses on How to Meet Your 'Significant Other'
Some people are just lucky. They've already found that "other" person who makes them happy and with whom they can march blissfully into a rosy-red future. Other people, and who knows how many there are, have to work to find their "significant others."
If you fit in the latter category, then College of the Canyons Community Extension may have the class you've been looking for. It is called "How to Meet the Significant Other Who's Just Right For You!"
Taught by Vandye Forrester, author of 12 books on interpersonal and social communication and founder of the Forrester Institute for Social Communication, the class provides clinically proven techniques to help you meet the person you've been waiting for. The class will meet from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, June 20.
You'll learn tips on how to "break the ice" and attract others through development of self-confidence, overcoming shyness, dressing appropriately, discovering those little-known places where you are most likely to meet your mate, polishing conversational skills and much more.
Registration fee is $35 plus an additional $20 materials fee. This class is just one of the many "fee-based, self-supporting" classes offered by College of the Canyons Community Extension and is not associated with the taxpayer-supported, credit classes offered by the college.
June 4, 2002
Women in History Class Offered at College of the Canyons
When it comes to our collective knowledge about women who played important roles in U.S. history, most of us rattle off the same, predictable list: Abigail Adams, Amelia Earhart, Annie Oakley, Eleanor Roosevelt, Calamity Jane, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Harriet Tubman and just a handful of others.
But the United States wouldn't be what it is today without the contributions of women like Carrie Chapman Catt, founder of the League of Women Voters; or Bessie Coleman, the first African-American woman to get a pilot's license; or Ida Lewis, lighthouse-keeper in Rhode Island responsible for saving 25 lives; or Sally Hemings, an African-American who sacrificed her freedom from slavery for the love of President Thomas Jefferson.
These lesser-known, but no less significant names in American history are just a few of the incredible people you'll learn about if you enroll in the College of the Canyons' Role of Women in History class this summer.
This credit class is transferable to University of California and California State Universities. It focuses not only on the personalities that formed U.S. history, but the political, economic and intellectual history of women from the colonial era to the present day.
The class meets from 9 to 10:50 a.m. Monday through Thursday, June 17 through 25. Enrollment fee is only $33 (books extra).
June 4, 2002
Extension Offers Solutions for Workplace Effectiveness
While there are appropriate times, places and situations where sophisticated management techniques are vital, many challenges in the workplace are solvable with simple, common-sense solutions. College of the Canyons Community Extension is offering two classes that will help managers solve workplace challenges and have some fun in the process.
Effective Meeting Leadership is a fast-paced, entertaining class that teaches the secrets of fewer, shorter and more productive meetings. Taught by Gary Buterbaugh, the class focuses on the meeting strategies and practices of successful leaders. It is perfect for managers, supervisors, project leaders and team leaders in business, government and community organizations. It meets from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, June 10, and again on Monday, June 17. Registration fee for this class is $75 plus an additional $7 materials fee.
Develop Your Gut Instinct: The Use of Intuition in the Business Setting is designed to develop students' intuitive awareness in support of their career goals and to help students establish procedures and guidelines for the enhancement and use of intuition in the everyday workplace. The class is taught by Robert Sharp, a management consultant and personal development coach. He is the CEO and founder of the management consulting firm Undiscovered Strengths.
This class meets from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 18. Registration fee for the class is $39 plus a $20 materials fee.
These classes are two of the many "fee-based, self-supporting" classes offered by College of the Canyons Community Extension and are not associated with the taxpayer-supported, credit classes offered by the college.
May 22, 2002
College of the Canyons Graduates 757 on May 24
The 2002 graduating class at College of the Canyons will celebrate commencement at 6 p.m. Friday, May 24. Seven-hundred-fifty-seven students have applied for graduation and will receive a total of 762 associate degrees - with four students receiving double degrees. This is a 16 percent increase over last year.
The class consists of 493 women and 264 men. They will assemble in the central-campus, outdoor Honor Grove that has become the site of the traditional graduation ceremony.
This year's class will receive associate of arts or associate of science degrees reflecting their accomplishments in 39 major courses of study. The average age of the class is 26.4 years, down from last year's 27.1 years of age. The youngest graduate is 17, and the eldest is 69.
Thirty-one international students representing 14 countries will receive degrees this year. Sixty-nine students are graduating from the popular Progressive Adult College Education (PACE) program, a 25.5 percent increase over last year. Disabled Student Programs & Services (DSP&S) will graduate 28, and there are 26 students receiving degrees who participated in the Extended Opportunity Program & Services (EOPS).
The grade-point average (GPA) of the graduating class is 3.02, identical to last year's class GPA. Five students - four women and one man - are graduating as valedictorians, having posted perfect 4.0 GPAs.
The subject area with the highest number of graduates is social science, boasting 238 graduates. There are 134 general arts and sciences graduates, while small business management and biological and physical science are each awarding 46 degrees. The popular nursing program will have 42 graduates. Ethnic minorities comprise 35.9 percent of the graduating class.
The number of students who achieve enough credits to transfer to four-year colleges and universities, as well as those who have worked toward completion of certificate programs, will not be available until later this summer.
May 15, 2002
College of the Canyons Recognizes Employees
Employees at College of the Canyons were recognized for their contributions to the college at an awards luncheon on Wednesday, May 15. The outdoor luncheon was held with the "twist" that board members, administrators and managers served college "classified" employees a catered meal.
Classified employees hold support positions at the college, which don't require academic qualifications. They are most often the behind-the-scenes people who are responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the college. This is the sixth year that awards were presented to individuals in several categories. Five awards were presented.
The Employee of the Year award consists of a decorative plaque and $300 cash. The College of the Canyons Employee of the Year was awarded to Joe Silva who works in the college's warehouse. The award recognizes an individual who has made contributions to the college through service to the campus. Additional criteria are overall performance above and beyond regular duties as well as demonstrated leadership.
The Humanitarian Award went to Dennis Lettau. Lettau works as an Instructional Lab Technician in the Tutoring/Learning/Computing Lab (TLC) on campus. This award acknowledges an indispensable contribution to the college and cites community involvement and dedication. The award consists of a decorative plaque and a $100 cash award.
The New Visions Award recognizes an employee who brings new insight to the job, which improves the college. A positive attitude and providing an inspiration to other employees are key elements in selecting the award winner. The 2002 New Visions Award winner is Michael Gunther, webmaster for the college. His award consists of a plaque and a $100 cash award.
A decorative plaque and a $100 cash award also went to Renee Drake, this year's winner of the Professional Achievement Award. Drake works in the Graphics office at the college and also coordinates Distance Learning and College-by-TV classes. The award recognizes outstanding performance through educational achievement and a record of excellent job performance.
The final award is the California School Employee Association (CSEA) Member of the Year Award. The association has 175 members on the COC campus. Chris Miner, administrative assistant to the facilities office is this year's winner. She also received a plaque and $100 cash.
The awards were presented by College Superintendent-President, Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook.
May 15, 2002
Men's Golf Team Takes State Title
First California Community College to Have Men's, Women's Golf Teams Win State Titles in Same Academic Year
There could be only one ending to a season that saw the men’s golf team set school records and finish with each player ranked in the top 10 in the Western State Conference - a state title. The Cougars did just that, winning their second state title in the past three years by beating College of the Desert 744-746 at the S.C.G.A. Members Course in Murrieta on May 13.
Coach Gary Peterson, who also led the College of the Canyons women’s golf team to its first state title this past November, called his men’s team “arguably the best I’ve ever coached.” Canyons is now the only community college in California that has had both a men and women’s golf team win a state title in the same academic year.
Sophomores Brad Uptgraft (Valencia) and Tommy Barber (Notre Dame) were dominant all year and finished atop the standings as the number 1 and 2 players in the Western State Conference, with 73.5 and 73.7 averages, respectively. The rest of the team followed closely. Jay Montes (Sylmar) finished the regular season with a 74.1 average, Daniel Marsh (Perth, Australia) finished with a 74.4 average, Anthony Harju came next with a 75.2 average and Tommy Mansuwan (El Camino Real) brought up the rear with a 75.6 average.
Barber, Marsh and Mansuwan were also named to the All-State Team.
May 10, 2002
Student-Actors Share Stage with Pros in 'Romeo and Juliet'
College of the Canyons student-actors are sharing the spotlight in this month's production of Romeo and Juliet, but they don't mind at all. Professional theater actors from the Shakespeare and Friends Foundation will be joining them on the stage, and offering acting tips and insights off the stage.
"To be acting with people who I'd pay $50 to see is just incredible," said sophomore Eva Vander Giessen, who will play the lead role of Juliet. "I went to the Shakespeare and Friends production of Hamlet at the Mark Taper Forum and they blew my mind. I didn't know anyone could do what they do with Shakespeare."
The Shakespeare and Friends Foundation is a non-profit professional acting company that tours junior and senior high schools and teaches students about Shakespeare and the classics and how they apply to everyday life. Each member of the Foundation is a professional actor or actress with years of real, working experience.
Joining the College of the Canyons cast from the foundation will be Brett Elliott, Derek Medina and Dee Marie Nieto, all professional actors. Elliott, who will play the lead role of Romeo, is a graduate of the UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television and was classically trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts. He has held numerous roles across Southern California, including most recently as Hamlet at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, and has appeared on television in ABC's Brother's Keeper. Medina, who will play the role of Lord Capulet, is a graduate of the California Institute of the Arts, and tours Southern California with the Kingsmen Shakespeare Company.
"The experience will be invaluable for the students," said Nieto, who founded Shakespeare and Friends and is directing and starring in the production as Lady Capulet. It was also Nieto's brainstorm that brought the college and the foundation together. "The quality of the production is raised to a higher level, and the students will learn just by practicing with professionals."
Romeo and Juliet will take place at the College of the Canyons amphitheater on May 17, 18 and 19. Starting time is 6 pm. The performance is open to the public and seating is free.
May 9, 2002
Applications Available for Popular Preschool Program
College of the Canyons is accepting applications now for its popular Preschool and Toddler Program at its Center for Early Childhood Education.
“This is an excellent opportunity to involve young children in a program that encourages social, emotional, intellectual and physical growth,” said site director Cam Valenzuela. The Center for Early Childhood Education offers a fully-certified and credentialed teaching staff.
Both half- and full-day schedules are available Monday through Friday in the fall. Half-day sessions are scheduled from 8:45 to 11:45 a.m. and from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.; full-day sessions run from 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. The program is open to all members of the college and the community.
Parents who meet minimum income standards may qualify to receive free or reduced-rate enrollment in the program. For example, a two-person household that earns $30,228 or less per year would qualify for free preschool.
May 9, 2002
Student's 'Whim' Rewarded with Steppenwolf Scholarship
Technically, she shouldn't have even been attending the American College Theater Festival at Cal State Hayward this past February.
She wasn't a part of last season's production of Shakespeare's Woodland Magic that garnered critical acclaim and the invitation. She was performing in an off-campus play that dominated her time.
She wavered about tagging along to the fair when a fellow student -- who had been invited -- asked her to come along and be his partner. She didn't want to intrude.
When the group of six student-actors from College of the Canyons finally did arrive in Hayward, she wasn't sure if she wanted to take part in any of the events. What was the point?
She changed her mind.
"I went all out instead," she said.
Eva Vander Giessen read for the role of 'She' in a student-written production called Simply Beautiful, a two-person play about an eccentric husband and wife. Directing the play just happened to be Dr. John Mayer, Cal State Stanislaus' Theater Department chairman and member of the prestigious Steppenwolf Theater Company of Chicago.
After watching Vander Giessen's over-the-top portrayal, Mayer handed her a scholarship to study with the Steppenwolf School on the spot.
"Total jaw droppage," said Vander Giessen of her reaction to being offered the scholarship. "I was stunned. I started crying."
Lauded by theater critics around the world for its groundbreaking work in both acting and directing, the Steppenwolf Theater receives numerous requests from students and professionals alike to study with the group.
In 1998, Steppenwolf founded the School at Steppenwolf, a once-a-year 10-week training residency held in Chicago and designed for gifted actors. Only 20 seats are available, and anyone interested in enrolling must audition against actors from across the country to secure a place in the class. It costs $50 to just submit the required paperwork, with no guarantee of an audition.
This year, though, the Steppenwolf School will take its act on the road and hold a two-week version of the highly sought after class at the CSU Summer Arts Festival in Fresno. Only 32 seats are available and anyone interested must audition against actors from across the western U.S. to secure a place in the class.
Vander Giessen is one of 32.
"I had gone on this trip on a whim," said Vander Giessen, a graduate of Frazier Park High School who is currently studying acting and psychology at College of the Canyons. "But since I was there, I had to make most of it."
Vander Giessen's whim will allow her to ply her trade with some of theater's top performers, including stage and television actor Jeff Perry of Nash Bridges fame, who has taught portions of the Steppenwolf School since its inception four years ago. The school trains budding actors in improvisation, movement and scene study and ends in a group performance by the class.
While she looks forward to the excitement of the Steppenwolf School in July, Vander Giessen will get an early taste of working with professionals this month. She will portray Juliet in the College of the Canyons' production of Romeo and Juliet on May 17, 18 and 19. The production will feature professional equity actors from the Shakespeare and Friends Foundation in some of the parts -- including the role of Juliet's paramour, Romeo.
"To be acting with people who I'd pay $50 to see is just incredible," said Vander Giessen. "I went to the Shakespeare and Friends production of Hamlet at the Mark Taper Forum and they blew my mind. I didn't know anyone could do what they do with Shakespeare.
"Just watching them, listening to them and being with them can increase your personal growth," said Vander Giessen.
Vander Giessen hopes to take what she learns from both the Steppenwolf School and the Romeo and Juliet performance and apply it to the goal she's chased for years: performance and dance therapy.
"I want to be able to touch people with what I'm doing," said Vander Giessen. "I want to be able to reach people."
Her most memorable role came doing exactly that, not on the stage but in the classroom.
"In high school, the drama club went from room to room to perform small scenes about abuse in the home," said Vander Giessen. "When I was on stage, my friends would always yell 'Yeah Eva!' But when they watched me during this skit, they stopped looking at me as Eva and were touched by the message of the play. If I could help people heal and grow with what I do, that would be fantastic."
May 1, 2002
Manufacturing Technology Education Aimed at High Schoolers
College of the Canyons is expanding its Manufacturing Technology Program and reaching out to high school students who might pursue careers in the field.
A four-week summer program called X-Plore Manufacturing will give 11th- and 12th-grade students an overview of a variety of manufacturing jobs, as well as the skills they require. Students planning to pursue engineering degrees also will benefit.
Classes will be held 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday beginning June 18.
The program is especially relevant given the manufacturing industry's significant presence in both the City of Santa Clarita and California as a whole. One in seven workers are employed in the field statewide.
Good-paying positions with career-growth potential are available to those with associate degrees in manufacturing technology or one-year certificates in manufacturing.
"We are aiming to augment local high schools that have had to close their metal-working curriculum," said Pete Bellas, director of the Center for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT), which has partnered with the college to offer the program.
High school students pay no tuition at the college, and they will receive high school and college credits.
College of the Canyons offers two tracks of study (pending state approval): the associate of science degree in manufacturing technology and the certificate in manufacturing technology. Graduates find employment in a variety of industries such as aerospace, electronics, scientific/pharmaceutical, and other high-growth and emerging industries.
Programs of study include opportunities for work experience at local manufacturing companies, as well as hands-on experience with high-speed machine tools, computer-aided design technology, CNC machining and programming, CAD/CAM technologies, automated manufacturing and metrology.
May 1, 2002
EMT Students to Participate in Victim-Extraction Training
NEWS ADVISORY
SUBJECT: College of the Canyons EMT students will receive “hands-on” training in an exercise simulating removal of victims from a car accident.
WHAT: The training exercise is being conducted in cooperation with the San Gabriel Fire Department, which will be on hand to operate the “Jaws of Life” and other tools used in the disentanglement of victims from their vehicles. EMT students will learn methods of treating victims of severe traffic accidents.
WHEN: 10 a.m. Monday, May 6
WHERE: COC parking lot #8 (located between Cougar Stadium and Valencia Boulevard)
Note to Editors: This is a very visual story with great photographic potential. Instructors will be available on scene for interviews. We’d appreciate a call if you intend to come.
January through April 2002 News Releases
|
