Athree-paneled cardboard projectboard, books and markers werespread out on the table in Group

Study Room 237 on the second floor ofthe College of the Canyons Library.Working quietly, sophomore students

Nicole Caraballoand Megan Lee fin-ished the details ontheir chemistry pro-ject about UV radi-ation and SPF.

“We’re hereevery day,” saidCaraballo. “Thereare too many dis-tractions at home. Ican concentrate andfocus here.”

But just a couple of months ago,study rooms such as Group StudyRoom 237 didn’t exist.

Thanks to the recent 10,000-square-foot expansion of the Library’s secondfloor, students have more workspaceand computer access to help them studyand prepare for exams.

Available on a first-come, first-served basis, the study rooms allow stu-dents to study, view media and meet

Non-ProfitOrganizationUS Postage

PAIDSanta Clarita

CA91355

Permit 56

College of the Canyons26455 Rockwell Canyon RoadSanta Clarita, CA 91355

Postal Customer

E C R W S SFor the past nine months, U.S. Army Lt. Renard Thomas hasbeen living in a small two-bedroom apartment in Valenciawith his three children.

Due to unforeseen financial circumstances, Thomas – a warveteran with more than 20 years of army service and an activemember of The National Guard – never thought he’d be able toown his own home, one where his sons wouldn’t have to sleep inthe living room.

Factors such as disability or lack of funds often lead to poorliving conditions for many returning veterans who, like Thomas,have trouble finding affordable permanent housing.

But all that is about to change thanks to Habitat for Heroes,a $21 million project that will build 100 affordable and energy-

Vets Get Chance atHome Ownership

ExPANDED LIBRARy, TLC UNvEILED

With voters’ passage ofProposition 30 in Novem-ber, College of the Can-

yons will now be able to offer moreclasses, serve additional students,and create more academic and job-training opportunities for the resi-dents of the Santa Clarita Valley.

The positive affects ofProposition 30 – and the resulting$4.6 million in restored funding toCollege of the Canyons – have been

almost immediate. Hours after the election results

were verified, college officialsannounced they would offer stu-dents a 2013 winter session.

Originally, the college plannednot to host winter classes as a cost-saving measure in the face of possi-ble statewide “trigger cuts” toCalifornia Community Colleges.

Instead, Proposition 30’s pas-sage is expected to give the state’s

community colleges approximately$210 million in restored fundingduring the 2012-13 academic year,providing students access to des-perately needed classes.

By making the decision to offer100 online class sections during itswinter session, the college will beable to accommodate approximate-ly 3,500 students in January.

See FUNDING on Page 5

See LIBRARY/TLC on Page 5

See VETERANS on Page 2

Approval of Proposition 30 Prompts Reinstatement of Winter Session

students (above) make good use of the new tlc (right), which was amajor component of the recently completed library expansion.

C O L L E G E O F T H E C A N Y O N S / S A N T A C L A R I T A C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E D I S T R I C T S E R V I N G T H E S A N T A C L A R I T A V A L L E Y S I N C E 1 9 6 9

GUMPS TO BE HONOREDCouple to receive Silver Spur Award

for Community Service.PAGE 3

SPRING SEMESTER ALERT: Registration begins Tuesday, Jan. 2. Classes start Monday, Feb. 4. Find your classes at www.canyons.edu.

HALL OF FAME HONORSAthletic Hall of Fame to induct

2013 honorees on Jan. 24.PAGE 8

WINTER 2012

College Funding Improves

Students Call New StudySpace a ‘Second Home’

RELATEDConstruction tobegin on newStudent Services& AdministrationBuilding.PAGE 7

Measure M at Work

College of the Canyons maintains a lead role intraining many of the community’s nurses, firstresponders and medical laboratory personnel,

thanks in large part to the Allied Health Division’sability to enhance such training opportunities viamutually beneficial community partnerships.

“The community partnerships we have establishedare crucial in aligning the curriculum students receivein the classroom with real-world situations,” saidCynthia Dorroh, dean of allied health at the college.

Partnerships Vital toAllied Health Success

See ALLIED HEALTH on Page 6

Breaking News is published by the College of the CanyonsPublic Information Office to inform the community about pro-grams, events, issues and accomplishments of the Santa ClaritaValley’s community college. It is distributed to residences, P.O.boxes and businesses in the 367-square-mile Santa ClaritaCommunity College District. Advertising is not accepted.

Mail: College of the CanyonsPublic Information Office26455 Rockwell Canyon RoadSanta Clarita, CA 91355Email: pio@canyons.edu

College of the Canyons ChancellorDr. Dianne G. Van Hook was among11 women honored as “icons” for

their hard work and dedication to uphold-ing the values and vision of SingleMothers Outreach of Santa Clarita.

The honors were presented during the“Empowering HeArts” gala fundraiser atthe Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook UniversityCenter on Nov. 3. The event attracted asizeable crowd of local dignitaries, com-munity supporters, and friends and familyof the honorees, who were on hand to cel-ebrate the themes of community, womenand the arts.

Each honoree was presented with aprofessionally rendered portrait of them-selves before being given the opportunityto share their personal stories.

Also honored were Patsy Ayala, corpo-rate relations director for Our Valley’sMagazine; Diana Barnes, an expert in peri-natal mood disorders; Lois Bauccio, presi-dent of the Child & Family CenterFoundation; Julie Benson, vice presidentof public relations at Princess Cruises;Crystl Bustos, two-time Olympic goldmedalist softball player; Alice Davis, cos-tume designer for Walt DisneyImagineering; Judi Davidson, co-founderof Davidson and Choy Publicity; LisaDeLong, mother; Cheri Fleming, dealer

principal of Valencia Acura and president-elect of Soroptimist International of theAmericas; Emily Iland, autism educationadvocate; and Kathy Sturkey, executivedirector of LARC Ranch.

“Being among those selected for thishonor is truly special, particularly when Ilook around the room at my fellow recipi-ents,” Dr. Van Hook said. “They are rolemodels, examples, and women who set thebar and serve as a definition of excellence.I am honored to be counted among them.”

Single Mothers Outreach of SantaClarita is a grassroots organization servinglocal families facing sudden housing insta-bility, income loss, emotional trauma, andeconomic and social discrimination.

Since it was established in 1995,Single Mothers Outreach has providedassistance to more than 2,200 single-par-ent households by getting them back ontheir feet and serving as a source of hope,support and vital resources.

As one of the organization’s longtimecommunity partners, College of theCanyons has continuously provided SingleMothers Outreach clients with opportuni-ties to receive various academic and careerdevelopment services, along with otherfinancial literacy and technology trainingdesigned to help families become moreself-sustaining.

van Hook Honored by Single Mothers Outreach

College of the Canyons will host a Women’sConference on Saturday, March 23, 2013 at the Dr.Dianne G. Van Hook University Center.

Themed “The Turning Point: Transformational Momentsof Clarity and Achievement,” the conference will provideattendees an opportunity to reflect upon past decisions,events or moments that led to successful outcomes, and howlessons learned can help future goals and decision making.

The conference will feature breakout sessions addressingtopics such as women’s health, family, education, businessand entrepreneurship. The featured guest speaker, breakoutsession participants and registration information will beposted to www.canyons.edu/Offices/WC in January.

efficient homes for veterans residing in Santa Claritaand Sylmar, two communities that census data reports ashaving high veteran populations.

Thomas and his family will move into the 87-home“Veteran Village” located in Santa Clarita, which will bethe country’s first service-enriched veterans villagewhen it is completed in early 2014.

The project is a collaboration between the CaliforniaDepartment of Veteran Affairs (CalVet) and Habitat forHumanity’s San Fernando/Santa Clarita Valley(SF/SCV) chapter, sponsored by Southern CaliforniaGas Co. and in partnership with KHTS AM-1220 andthe California Department of Housing and CommunityDevelopment.

“The opportunity to own a home is tremendous,”said Thomas, who said he is very grateful and excited tobe moving into his new four-bedroom, three-bathroomhome, which he considers a gesture of gratitude from thecommunity.

Homes will be sold to veterans for the cost of build-ing, and additional financial assistance will be providedthrough CalVet home loans and Habitat SF/SCV loansset at zero-percent interest.

Veterans participating in the program must invest“sweat equity” toward their homes by helping with con-struction and participating in CalVet educational train-ing workshops that teach self-sufficiency skills such asbudgeting and maintaining good credit.

Thomas, who also serves as director of the AdultReentry and Veterans programs at College of theCanyons, said he believes the project will allow return-ing veterans to experience a full transition back intocivilian life through homeownership.

“When military members make a commitment toserve their country, they forfeit that period in their life

when many of their peers settle down and buy a home,”Thomas said. “When service members return home,they often feel behind. This allows them to catch up andto take up roots within a community.”

More than 10,000 veterans live in the Santa ClaritaValley, and approximately 600 veterans are COC stu-dents, many of whom finance their studies through thePost 9/11 GI Bill and receive job-placement assistancethrough the college’s Career Center.

Several local organizations have donated materialsand funds for the project, and many community mem-bers have signed on as volunteers.

Barry Gribbons, assistant superintendent-vice presi-dent of institutional development and technology atCOC, serves on the project’s advisory board and haspainted two homes.

“It’s an incredibly rewarding experience to giveback,” said Gribbons. “It’s a tangible demonstration ofour support.”

The Habitat for Heroes project hits particularly closeto home for KHTS owners Carl and Jeri Goldman

“My father was seriously injured in World War II,and our oldest son Ryan graduated from West PointMilitary Academy and is about to be deployed toAfghanistan in the spring,” Goldman said. When askedto spearhead the project, it took the Goldmans “20 sec-onds to say yes,” Goldman said. “We are passionateabout assisting veterans.”

Habitat for Heroes marks the third and final phase ofthe program, whose first phase was “A Brush WithKindness,” the volunteer-based reparation and modifica-tion phase of existing veteran homes followed by the“Neighborhood Revitalization” phase, which renovatedforeclosed homes for veteran families to purchase.

Veterans interested in participating in the programmust first apply to Habitat for Humanity SF/SCV by vis-iting www.habitatscv.org. Once their applications areapproved, veterans undergo an approval process for aCalVet home loan.

2 COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAK ING NEWS • WINTER 2012

vETERANSFRoM PAGe 1

college of the canyons chancellor dr. dianne g. Van hook (left) with daanne smith, executive direc-tor of single mothers outreach of santa clarita.

SAVE THE DATE:

Women’s ConferenceScheduled March 23

graphic impactthe city of santa clarita liked the work ofcoc graphic and multimedia design studentsso much that it put their work on public dis-play at city hall in october and november.the exhibit, entitled “illustrated travelPosters,” featured 42 illustrated posters(three are at right) that focused on the manyactivities and amenities the city has to offer.

Gumps to be Honored for Community Service

Barry and Pati Gump will be honored with the Silver Spur Award for 2013

Need an advanced degree? Look no further!The Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center offers bachelor’s, masters, andcredential/certificate programs from a variety of public and private universi-ties. The center eliminates the need to commute to distant campuses – a sig-nificant barrier to higher education – and allows students to complete theirfirst two years at College of the Canyons, then transfer to their degree pro-

gram of choice without ever leaving the Valencia campus. Since opening inan interim facility in 2002, more than 1,700 students have graduated fromUniversity Center degree programs. The current 110,000-square-foot facilityopened in 2009. The center’s six partner universities offer a variety of pro-grams, including:

Information: (661) 362-5474 or cocuniversitycenter.com

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAK ING NEWS • W INTER 2012 3

More than a decade ago, College ofthe Canyons established a newpoint of access for higher educa-

tion in the Santa Clarita Valley by estab-lishing the University Center, first housedin an interim facility on the Valencia cam-pus.

Cited as the college’s solution to thelack of upper-division, graduate schooland continuing education programs in theSanta Clarita Valley, the University Centerconcept was created by forging partner-ships with four-year colleges and universi-ties.

The interim center opened in Januaryof 2002, offering advanced degreesthrough seven partner institutions.

Community demand for these programswas immense, validating this new educa-tional delivery system.

In 2009 the college opened its perma-nent University Center, officially dedicat-ing the new building to College of theCanyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. VanHook, whose innovative vision and dedi-cated leadership were instrumental in theproject’s conception.

“The University Center has proven thatpeople appreciate the convenience of earn-ing degrees as close to home as possible,”Dr. Van Hook said. “We’re extremelypleased that we’ve been able to provideaccess to a wide variety of educationalprograms for those who otherwise may not

have had the opportunity to pursue theireducational dreams and aspirations.”

From the time the University Centerconcept was introduced through June2012, more than 1,700 students haveearned degrees without having to leave theSanta Clarita Valley.

As of the fall 2012 semester, more than500 students were enrolled in 31 academicprograms offered by partner universitiessuch as California State University (CSU),Bakersfield; CSU Northridge; CSU LosAngeles; University of La Verne;Brandman University (formerly ChapmanUniversity) and National University.

“With new programs and partnersbeing added to the University Center ros-

ter each year, students interested in obtain-ing a higher education degree or credentialwill continue to have new options tochoose from,” said Cathy Ritz, interimdirector of the University Center.

The college is working to establishnew degree programs with partner institu-tions based on community needs. Onesuch program would offer a doctoratedegree in nursing practice.

The college will host an open house inthe spring to highlight the available pro-grams and provide information to prospec-tive students. The date and times will beposted at www.cocuniversitycenter.com,which also lists all partners, programs andupcoming information sessions.

1,700+ Students Earn Degrees at University Center

Brandman UniversityB.A. in Applied StudiesB.A. in Criminal JusticeB.A. in Legal StudiesB.A. in PsychologyB.A. in Social ScienceB.S. in Computing TechnologiesM.A. in Psychology, Marriage & Family Therapy M.A. in Education, Early Childhood Ed. Leadership

California State University, BakersfieldB.A. in CommunicationsB.A. in EnglishB.A. in Liberal StudiesB.A. in Public Administration

California State University, Los AngelesB.S. in Engineering with emphasis in ManufacturingB.S. in Biological Science

California State University, NorthridgeM.P.A. in Public AdministrationM.S.W. in Social Work

National UniversityB.A. in Sport PsychologyB.S. in NursingB.S. in Paralegal StudiesApplied Behavior Analysis Certificate ProgramMaster of Criminal Justice

University of La VerneB.A. in Business AdministrationB.S. in Child DevelopmentB.S. in Organizational ManagementSingle Subject/Multiple Subject Teaching CredentialSpecial Education Level I and II CredentialCLAD/CTEL Certificate Program M.Ed. Special EmphasisM.A. in Business AdministrationM.S. in Special EducationM.S. in School PsychologyM.S. in Leadership ManagementM.S. in Ed. Counseling; Pupil Personnel Services: SchoolCounseling CredentialM.Ed. in Ed. Management; Preliminary AdministrativeServices Credential

As the driving forces behind the well-known,multi-generational family business Andy GumpInc., Barry and Pati Gump have always worked

to ensure that their personal and professional successcould be shared to help build a stronger communityand make a difference in the lives of those most inneed. Passionate supporters of the Cystic FibrosisFoundation and countless related projects and chari-ties, the Gumps have provided resources and supportfor a wide range of non-profit organizations and eventsthroughout the Santa Clarita and San Fernando val-leys.

Because of this, the College of the CanyonsFoundation has named Barry and Pati Gump recipientsof the Silver Spur Community Service Award for2013.

“Barry and Pati embody the spirit of service that isunique to our community,” College of the CanyonsChancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “They workquietly behind the scenes to support entities through-out Santa Clarita, and make a profound difference inthe many lives they touch.”

“Their dedicated service stems from their genuineinterest in the welfare of others, and a heartfelt gen-erosity that is rarely seen today,” Dr. Van Hook said.“They are most deserving of the Silver Spur Award,

and we appreciate this opportunity to honor their serv-ice.”

For nearly 25 years, Barry and Pati Gump havebeen active supporters of several key projects and pro-grams at College of the Canyons, helping to sponsor avariety of fundraising events and initiatives, includingthe college’s University Center capital campaign.

The couple’s true passion stems from their com-mitment to advancing the science and treatment ofcystic fibrosis (CF). Having lost their daughterCherilyn to CF in 1970, the Gumps’ charity work hasbeen driven by the dream that no parent should everlose a child to this disease.

They have also supported local organizations suchas the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley, theMichael Hoefflin Foundation, the Henry MayoNewhall Memorial Hospital Foundation and SCVChild & Family Center.

The 2013 Silver Spur Celebration is scheduled 6p.m. Saturday, March 2 at the Globe Theater,Universal Studios Hollywood. The evening includeslive entertainment, studio tour, cocktail party on thepark’s British-themed Baker Street and inspired cui-sine by Wolfgang Puck Catering.

For information, contact the College of theCanyons Foundation at (661) 362-3737.

Economic Development DivisionThe College of the Canyons Economic Development Division is where smartbusinesses learn, compete and grow. Its mission is to identify, create anddeliver services that promote the growth and prosperity of business, as well asdevelop the current and future workforce.canyonsecondev.org • (661) 362-3521

Center for International Trade DevelopmentProvides export/import trade development insight and assistance.citd@canyons.edu • cocsbdc.org • (661) 362-5900

Young Entrepreneurs ProgramBusiness training and free business counseling for young people 14 to 27.sbdc@canyons.edu • cocsbdc.org • (661) 362-5900

Center for Applied Competitive TechnologiesTechnical consulting to help advanced-tech-nology companies learn, compete and grow.canyonsecondev.org • (661) 362-3112

i3 IncubatorAdvisory and mentoring services for technology-basedstartups, and connections to relevant organizations,companies and providers of capital.sbdc@canyons.edu • cocsbdc.org • (661) 362-3241

Entertainment & Arts Industry InitiativeSupport services for businesses in the entertainment and arts industry, as wellas advisors with industry-specific expertise.cocsbdc.org • (661) 362-3241

Small Business Development Center Whether you’re launching a startup or growing an existing company, SBDCoffers free one-on-one consulting to take your business to the next level. Nowfeaturing Ed2Go online instruction.sbdc@canyons.edu • cocsbdc.org • (661) 362-5900

Fast Track InstituteThe fastest way to prepare for in-demand jobs in manufacturing,medical, green technology and managerial/professional fields.canyons.edu/fasttrack • (661) 362-3521

Career Services & Job PlacementServices include career advisement, job search assistance, resume andinterview preparation, and job fairs twice a year.canyons.edu/careercenter • (661) 362-3286

College of the Canyons InternshipsConnecting students with employers via internships.canyons.edu/internships • (661) 362-3309

College of the Canyons Civic Center (Film Office)Handles public access to college facilities, including location servicesfor the entertainment industry.canyons.edu/civiccenter • (661) 362-3240

WorkSource CaliforniaProvides job seekers and businesses with employment and training services.econdev.santa-clarita.com • (661) 799-WORK (9675)

Career Technical EducationPrepare students for ongoing education, life skills and the workplace. canyons.edu/cte • (661) 362-3131

Employee Training InstituteETI’s customized training helps drive down costs and expand talentwithin your workforce. Now featuring Ed2Go online instruction.canyonsecondev.org • (661) 362-5657

Santa Clarita ValleyBUSINESS RESOURCE GUIDEPrograms and services provided by, or in partnership with, College of the Canyons.

College of the Canyons

CIVIC CENTER

4 C O L L E G E O F T H E CA N Y O N S B R E A K I N G N E W S • WI N T E R 2 0 1 2

The Economic Development Division(EDD) at College of the Canyons fuels thelocal economy by providing wide-ranging

support to businesses to help them grow anddevelop the workforce.

EDD programs provide a wide range of serv-ices that complement the college’s occupationalprograms, ranging from customized contract

training to workshops and consulting services(see the Business Resource Guide below).

The EDD has served more than 500 employ-ers and more than 2,700 employees annually forthe past three years. It generates resources frommany sources, including contract education andgrants, and has generated more than $1 million insupport resources every year since 2006.

College Boosts Local Economy Did you know...• The college fuels the local economy via local purchases and wages paid to faculty and staff; students who commute from outside the valley and spend theirdollars locally; and the increased skill base of the local workforce.

• The net added income generated by college operations and the spending of non-local students contributes $70.8 million in income annually in the SCV.

• For every dollar a student invests in education, he or she receives a $4.60 return in future income over the course of a working career. That’s an average annualrate of return of 14.7 percent.

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAK ING NEWS • W INTER 2012 5

classmates in a quiet setting. “I love these study rooms,” said Lee, who does her

homework at the Library. “It’s a business-like atmospherebut still very comfortable.”

The second floor also boasts a large “informationcommons” area devoted entirely to computer access, withindividual and group workstations that are laptop-friend-ly.

“The computer workstations give students space andprivacy,” Librarian Leslie Bretall said. “We have 63 com-puters, and they are usually all taken in the mornings.”

Bretall was worried the comfortable couches and extraspace would lead to a noisy atmosphere. “I thought it wasgoing to be a party up there,” Bretall said of the Library’sexpanded second floor. “But it’s so quiet. I think studentsfind the setting soothing.”

Edwin Pejoro, a media technician at the Library, hasalso noticed the positive effects the Library’s expansionhas had on students’ studying.

“There’s a lot more interaction between students, andthey are using the Library more,” Pejoro said.

This collaborative spirit is also palpable in TheLearning Center (TLC), which is now a significant part ofthe new Library building. Equipped with 130 computersand larger testing rooms, the TLC offers free tutoring inEnglish, math, basic skills and other subjects.

The largest portion of the expansion, the 41,000-square-foot TLC has large group-study areas, eachequipped with touch-screen whiteboards. Instructors can

also record lectures and class activities using theaudio/visual “class capture” technology found in some ofthe new lab areas.

“It’s wonderful that we have all this new technology,”TLC Director Mojdeh Mahn said. “You can’t even com-pare it to the last center. It’s like night and day.”

College officials began planning the Library expan-sion when it became evident that the previous Library andTLC were struggling to meet the needs of the ever-grow-ing student population. The need for space was especiallystriking in the old TLC, a 5,000-square-foot facility thatwas located in Bonelli Hall, as the demand for tutoringservices grew.

Accommodating students in the center’s former space,which had only 56 computers, was a challenge, recalledMike Calvo, the TLC’s lead English tutor. “Sometimesstudents couldn’t stay in the lab because there wasn’tenough space. That is not an issue anymore.”

At the 10th-week mark of the fall 2011 semester, theTLC provided tutoring and supplemental learning servic-es to 2,526 students. By comparison, at the same time dur-

ing the fall 2012 semester, that number had jumped to3,715 students, an increase of 47 percent.

“Students are coming in droves,” said Kim Haglund,an instructional lab technician at the TLC. “They reallyenjoy it.”

A regular visitor to the center is freshman YvonneTinajero, who utilizes the TLC for tutoring in English,math and history. “I live in here,” said Tinajero, aChatsworth resident who commutes by bus to College ofthe Canyons and stays at the TLC to study before headingback home. “There’s a lot of computers, and I can get a lotof work done.”

“It has been very exciting to witness how studentshave embraced their new Library and TLC,” said JamesGlapa-Grossklag, dean of educational technology, learn-ing resources and distance learning. “The Library’sexpansion is a significant milestone for College of theCanyons.”

Construction of the expansion project, which wasfunded through a combination of state and Measure Mbond funds, began in November 2010.

LIBRARy/TLCFRoM PAGe 1

chancellor dr. dianne g. Van hook (right, at podium) addresses thecrowd during the ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked the opening ofthe new library and tlc on oct. 24. students (above) make use of one ofthe spacious new study areas in the expanded library.

“We are continuously looking for waysto increase access to education for our stu-dents and accommodate their educationalneeds,” said Jasmine Ruys, the college’sdirector of admissions, records and onlineservices. “The ability to offer students a2013 winter session would not have beenpossible without the foresight of the Boardof Trustees and college administrationteam to plan for all possible budget scenar-ios, while keeping the best interests of stu-dents in mind.”

The restored access will also carry intosubsequent semesters, which is good newsfor the college’s ever-growing studentpopulation of local high school graduates,adult re-entry students, returning veteransand other community members takingcourses in order to update their job skillsand advance their careers.

In fact, it’s estimated that roughly 60percent of graduates from the William S.

Hart Union High School District willattend COC upon leaving high school.

SURGE IN RE-ENTRY STUDENTSIn recent years, the number of adult re-

entry students and returning veteransenrolling at the college has skyrocketed,prompting the college to establish an AdultReentry/Veterans Center on the Valenciacampus.

Since it opened in 2009, the center hasserved more than 500 veteran and re-entrystudents each year. The graduating class of2012 included 46 veterans, nearly twicethe number of veterans who receiveddegrees in 2011 (24) and more than triplethe mark set in 2010 (14).

“Regardless of how much restoredfunding we received from the state thisyear, or any year, access to communitycollege courses will always be in highdemand,” said Audrey Green, associatevice president of academic affairs.

“With such a large segment of the stu-dent population coming to COC with awide range of different needs – transfer

preparation, job and career training, busi-ness assistance – it will be important forthe college to continue to employ planningstrategies that will take those needs intoaccount, and maintain COC’s position asthe Santa Clarita Valley’s first stop forhigher education services.”

California’s community colleges aren’tthe only institutions of higher educationfacing increased demands.

The California State University (CSU)system announced it was on track toreceive a record number of applications forthe fall 2013 semester.

SIGNIFICANT SPIKE IN APPLICATIONSWith CSU officials having recently

capped enrollment for the spring 2013semester, a large number of transfer stu-dents has contributed to the huge spike inapplications, as students rush to completegeneral-education requirements and trans-fer to four-year universities.

COC has also experienced an increasein the number of students clamoring foraccess to classes, forcing college officials

to evaluate each term and balance courseofferings according to demand.

With this in mind, the spring 2013schedule of classes includes approximate-ly 1,500 class sections of academic andcareer technical training courses for stu-dents to choose from.

STRIVING TO ENHANCE STUDENT ACCESS“Our students need to be able to live,

work, compete and prosper in an environ-ment that is ever-changing, global andunpredictable,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G.Van Hook said. “They need the opportuni-ty to become self-reliant, resilient, trustingof their instincts, and committed to contin-uing to learn and grow as part of a fulfilledlife.”

“In that context, we will continue toface challenges to our ability to deliveracademic excellence in an environmentthat is rapidly changing in terms of rev-enue, public accountability and technolo-gy, as we strive to enhance student accessand create the potential for others to pur-sue their dreams,” she added.

FUNDINGFRoM PAGe 1

Five years In, K-12 Arts Education Outreach is Thriving6 COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAK ING NEWS • WINTER 2012

“These experiences allow them to gain thecritical skills necessary for our students toobtain employment and fulfill a variety ofthe community’s health-care workforceneeds.”

Each semester, graduates from thenursing program take part in a traditionalpinning ceremony, marking the comple-tion of their training and officially wel-coming them into the profession.

LVN-TO-RN PARTNERSHIPMaking the ceremony especially

meaningful this past semester was the factthat the first cohort of students from thecollege’s Licensed Vocational Nurse(LVN) to Registered Nurse (RN) partner-ship with Henry Mayo Newhall MemorialHospital were among the more than 75graduates.

The partnership is the result of a near-ly $240,000 Responsive Training Fundgrant from the California CommunityCollege Chancellor’s Office, which wasdesigned to help LVNs currently workingat the hospital make successful transitionsto become registered nurses.

As a crucial component of the pro-gram, participating students were able tocontinue working at the hospital – main-taining their current positions, salaries andbenefits – while being provided one paidleave day a week to attend classes andundergo the training to become an RNs.

Each of the graduating students com-pleted 168 hours of course lectures andmore than 500 hours of hands-on clinicaltraining, in addition to meeting all of thecollege’s regular nursing associate degreecourse requirements and working theirnormal shifts at the hospital.

As a result, these students will now beeligible for licensure as registered nursesand have the opportunity to continue theireducation by pursuing bachelor’s degreesin nursing science.

The collaboration – a second cohort isscheduled this winter – has helped preventthe dismissal of more than 30 LVNsemployed at Newhall Memorial, whilealso maintaining the facility’s requiredRN-to-patient ratio and providing lab andclassroom space for the nursing program.

“We are extremely excited about thisopportunity to partner with Henry MayoNewhall Memorial Hospital and providethese students the opportunity to simulta-

neously advance in their careers, whilecontinuing to serve the patients of thiscommunity,” said Diane Morey, director ofthe COC nursing program. “The hospital’sdecision to allow their employees toreceive this training, while maintainingtheir current positions, has been an essen-tial component to the program’s success.”

MEDICAL LAB TECH AND EMT PROGRAMSThe Allied Health Division’s Medical

Lab Technology (MLT) and EmergencyMedical Technician (EMT) programs alsohave embraced the concept of communitypartnerships, with students participatingregularly in health-related events andfundraisers throughout the community.

In November, students from the COCnursing and EMT programs teamed withthe City of Santa Clarita, Los AngelesCounty Department of Public Health andL.A. County Sheriff’s Department to par-ticipate in the annual flu immunizationPoint of Dispensing (POD) event at thecollege’s Valencia campus.

Nursing students administer most ofthe vaccinations, and EMT students arepart of the pre-screening process, givingstudents valuable, hands-on experience.

The flu POD exercise also provides avaluable community service by testing theSanta Clarita Valley’s Cities ReadinessInitiative (CRI) response in the event of abioterrorism attack or potential flu pan-demic, in which a mass population wouldpotentially need to be treated with medica-tion in a short period of time.

Also in November, students from theEMT program participated in the annualNBC Universal Disaster Drill, workingalongside officials from Providence SaintJoseph Medical Center and volunteersfrom more than 80 Southern Californiahospitals and public service agencies tocomplete a series of hands-on emergencydrills staged throughout the theme park.

REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCEAs part of the day’s activities, students

served as volunteer “victims” in a numberof different emergency scenarios, beforethey were transported to Providence SaintJoseph Medical Center via the variousprovider agencies. The drill also includedstudents accessing the L.A. CountyMedical Alert Center via radio, to receiveoperating orders.

Included among the participating agen-

cies were L.A. County Fire Department,L.A. City Fire, Burbank Fire Department,U.S. Army, AMR Ambulance, BowersAmbulance, Lifeline Ambulance and mul-tiple Urban Search and Rescue, SearchDog and community emergency responseteams (CERT).

“This event provided our students witha valuable opportunity to interact with per-sonnel from public service agencies andhealth-care providers from acrossSouthern California,” said Patti Haley,chair of the college’s Health Science/FireTechnology Department, and director ofthe EMT Program. “Having students serveas victims is an important component ofbecoming a competent care provider.”

After the drill, students brought theirexperiences back to the classroom to dis-cuss the challenges of communicating dur-ing a medical emergency or disaster, andwhat practices were or weren’t successful.

“The preparation and planning thatwent into an event as large as this drill isan enormous undertaking,” Haley said.“But thanks to these important partner-ships, our students, and the communitymembers they’ll eventually serve, willbenefit from the training received.”

ALLIED HEALTHFRoM PAGe 1

allied health students participate in the flu immunization Point of dispensing (Pod) event, a partnership among several city and county agencies, in november.

It’s no secret that early, first-hand exposure to the artscan play an important part in a child’s educationaldevelopment – just ask the thousands of local students

who have participated in the Santa Clarita PerformingArts Center’s (PAC) K-12 Arts Education OutreachProgram over the last five years.

“Arts education helps to create whole students,enabling them to reachtheir full potential,” saidLinda Candib, PAC K-12arts education specialist.“In a time when art pro-grams continue to be cutfrom school curriculabecause of lack of funding,College of the Canyons andthe PAC are proud to beable to create meaningfuland innovative arts experi-ences for students of theSanta Clarita Valley.”

Launched in 2008, thePAC K-12 Arts EducationOutreach Program continues to provide incredible oppor-tunities for the youth of the Santa Clarita Valley throughvaluable partnerships with major arts organizations inCalifornia and across the nation.

The program uses the college’s cultural and communi-ty resources to expose the student population to top-tiervisual and performing arts standard-based arts activitiesand integrated performing arts learning opportunities.

Through school assemblies, bus-in programs, class-room visits and family performances, students are able toenjoy performances that meet or exceed the state ofCalifornia’s visual and performing arts standards.

12,000-PLUS STUDENTS SERVED SO FARIn the last six months alone, the program has served

more than 12,000 local students through a variety of inno-vative arts programs.

Thanks to a grant from the Thelma Pearl Howard

Foundation, students from the Sulphur Springs andNewhall school districts received 10 weeks of hip-hopdance instruction, before staging final performances forfriends and family members.

Officials at the Sulphur Springs district have alsoteamed with the PAC to develop a sustained arts educationprogram at those campuses, whereby each year everyclassroom in the district will participate in at least onecustom-designed arts education workshop along with ateacher or performer from the PAC.

Comprehensive arts education programs, coordinatedby the PAC and taught byteaching artists of variousdisciplines have also beencreated at five campuses inthe Saugus Union SchoolDistrict and one inNewhall. This year, allkindergarten and first-gradestudents in the Newhall dis-trict will participate inworkshops that combinepuppetry with literacy fun-damentals.

“The arts education out-reach ‘PACkages’ we’vedeveloped with each of the

local school districts have been specifically tailored tomeet the curriculum needs of students in each participat-ing classroom,” Candib said. “Watching the students learnand grow as they progress through these programs, it’sevident that the potential benefits of an arts-infused edu-cation are vast and varied.”

Studies show that arts education can strengthen prob-lem-solving and critical-thinking skills, and add to a stu-dent’s overall academic achievement and school success.

BUILDING SELF-CONFIDENCEAn arts education can also teach children life skills

such as developing an informed perception, articulating avision, learning to solve problems and make decisions,building self-confidence and self-discipline.

The K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program isn’t lim-ited to students. Teachers from participating school dis-tricts have also received updated arts training.

The Santa Clarita Valley K-12 Arts EducationConsortium – a partnership that developed as a result ofthe Kennedy Center’s Partners in Education program –launched its professional development program for K-12educators in 2010. Educators are provided tools and tech-niques to integrate arts into classrooms, while addressingcurriculum requirements and working to develop measur-able ways to enhance current levels of arts education.

For more information, contact Candib at (661) 362-3061 or visit www.canyonspac.com.

the 2012-13 arts education outreach season brochure contains a widevariety of arts programs geared toward k-12 students. it can beviewed or downloaded at canyonspac.com.

Benefits of arts in educationAccording to the National School Boards Association and Americans for theArts, young people who consistently participate in comprehensive,sequential and rigorous arts programs are: • Four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement.• three times more likely to be elected to class office.• Four times more likely to participate in a math and science fair.• three times more likely to win an award for school attendance. • Four times more likely to win an award for writing an essay or poem.

Early Exposure to the Arts AllowsChildren to Reach Full Potential

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS BREAK ING NEWS • W INTER 2012 7

New Student Services, Administration Building to RiseF

or the first time in its nearly 44-yearhistory, College of the Canyons willdemolish one of its oldest campus

buildings to make way for a new andimproved two-story Student Services &Administration Building on the Valenciacampus.

The current College Services &Administration Building, commonlyknown as the “A Building,” first opened inFebruary 1982 as the main CollegeServices Building.

Housing both the then-new ChildDevelopment Center (CDC) and a varietyof administrative offices, the buildingallowed the college to provide pre-schoolservices to Santa Clarita Valley families.

After a new Family Studies and EarlyChildhood Education Center opened in1995, the A Building was redesigned tohouse a number of student support offices,including Admissions & Records andCounseling.

“For more than 30 years, the ABuilding has been a first point of contactand important stopping place for hundredsof thousands of students, parents, commu-nity members and campus visitors lookingto learn more about the educational oppor-tunities available at College of the Canyons,” said Dr.Michael Wilding, assistant superintendent-vice president ofstudent services.

“Throughout its long history, the building has been calledmany different names and housed several different depart-ments, but has always remained vital in delivering the high-

quality administrative and student support services our stu-dents deserve,” Wilding said. “Upon its completion, this newbuilding will allow us to enhance those services even further.

The new Student Services & Administration Buildingwill span approximately 46,000 square feet.

On the first floor will be an expanded Admissions &

Records with new computer labs andkiosks for student use, along with an offi-cial “welcoming center” to ensure studentsand visitors find their way to the appropri-ate department or destination. Plans alsocall for a new Financial Aid Office, cam-pus bookstore, and expanded switchboardand mailroom.

The second floor will house additionalcomputer kiosks, along with other key stu-dent service departments such as theCounseling Department, Transfer Centerand Career Center. Additional space hasbeen set aside to accommodate the StudentServices, Instruction and Public Informa-tion Offices.

“The ability for students to apply andregister for classes, check the status of theirfinancial aid disbursements, meet with acounselor, explore their transfer options orresearch a new career path – all in onelocation – will be more convenient andtime efficient than ever before,” Wildingsaid. “By providing increased access tothese services, it’s our hope that studentswill be able to seek out and explore evenmore of the academic, job-training andcareer opportunities available.”

Demolition of the existing building isscheduled to begin in late December. Departments that werehoused in the old building have been temporarily relocated.

The roughly $17.8 million project will be paid for with acombination of Measure M general-obligation bonds andmatching funds from the state. The new building is expectedto be completed in early 2015.

an architectural illustration depicts the planned two-story, 46,000-square-foot student services and administration building that will replace the old “a building,” which will be demolished starting in late december.

the existing college services & administration building, commonly called the “a building,” will be torn down.

Who Was Peter Huntsinger?

in the atrium of the soon-to-be-demolisheda building is a plaque (above) dedicatingthe building to Peter huntsinger (right).

Those words are cast in bronze on a plaque in theCollege Services & Administration Building (ABuilding), which first opened in 1982. The building

has seen countless students and staff members comeand go, and when it is demol-ished to make way for a newbuilding, the plaque will gowith it.

So, who was Peter F.Huntsinger?

Huntsinger was one of thecollege’s five founding boardmembers and a strong supporterfor building the original ChildDevelopment Center, which wasfirst housed within the ABuilding.

A driving force behind thecreation of the Santa ClaritaCommunity College District,Huntsinger served on the boarduntil 1982 and was board presi-dent for three terms.

“He was incredibly dedicated

to the college,” said Bruce Fortine, who was also one ofthe college’s founding board members. “I sat beside himat many board meetings. It was a dynamic time, and theboard was really focused on making the college the best itcould be.”

Huntsinger was owner of Huntsinger Turkey Ranch inSaugus, which sold “oven ready” free-range turkeys. Hedied in 1996 at the age of 66 in Palm Springs.

According to his obituary in the Los Angeles Times,Huntsinger was a native of the San Fernando Valley, grad-uated from UC Berkeley and was a U.S. Army veteran,having served in Korea.

“Peter was a really good human being, a decent fellowand a respected family man,” said Al Adelini, who retiredas head counselor at COC in 2000.

“He really cared about the college. He was very excit-ed about bringing a community college to the area.”

Before the college opened in 1969, students had tocommute to Glendale Community College and PierceCollege to pursue their studies, Adelini said.

“It was important to have good people on the board,”Adelini said. “COC was very lucky because we startedwith people who were good people and very well-respect-ed in the business community.”

“this building is dedicated to Peter F. huntsinger for his longand devoted service on the board of trustees of the santa

clarita community college district, 1968 thru 1982.”

The College of the Canyons AthleticHall of Fame will honor the 2013class of inductees during the Cougar

Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremonyon Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013.

The ceremony, to be held at the HyattRegency Valencia, will honor the 1975state championship men’s cross countryteam, former softball coach Ray Whitten,former men’s basketball player NickSanderson, former swimmer Christine(Castellanos) Worby, former softball play-er Chantal Pershing and the late formerbaseball player Robert Corrales.

“The 2013 class of inductees is onceagain a stellar group. They helped putCougar Athletics on the map,” said Len

Mohney, dean of athletics and physicaleducation. “We also are excited aboutannouncing the completion of the firstphase of the Athletic Hall of Fame perma-nent site in the West Physical Educationbuilding.”

The College of the Canyons AthleticHall of Fame induction is a biennial eventthat celebrates the college’s athletic histo-ry and excellence. Established in 2005, theevent has been a vehicle for fundraisingfor the permanent Hall of Fame, located inthe West Physical Education building onthe Valencia campus.

For information and tickets, visitwww.cocathletics.com or call the COCFoundation at (661) 362-3434.

8 C O L L E G E O F T H E CA N Y O N S B R E A K I N G N E W S • WI N T E R 2 0 1 2

Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook (center) cuts the ceremonial ribbon marking the opening of the new Athletic Hall of Fame wall and trophy cases on Nov. 29. Joining her are (from left) Gary Peterson, head men’s andwomen’s golf coach; Frank Sanchez, a member of the Hall of Fame; Al Adelini, former head counselor; Len Mohney, physical education and athletics dean; Lee Smelser, former men’s head basketball coach and Hall of Famemember; Chuck Lyon, athletic director; Mike Herrington, Hart High School football coach and Hall of Fame member; and Jason Felice, a member of the 1981 Cougar baseball team and Hall of Fame.

Athletic Hall of Fame to Induct Honorees Jan. 24

The Chancellor’s Circle is a partnership between College of the Canyons and a

diverse group of businesses, community members, non-profit groups, govern-

ment leaders and others who are committed to strengthening our community –

by actively supporting a strong community college. The underlying tenet of the

Chancellor’s Circle is the strong belief that by working together we can add value

to a community college education, provide support for creative and innovative

programs that enrich the educational experience of students, and provide need-

ed workforce skills that will strengthen and sustain our economy – that we can

achieve, by working together, much more than we can by working alone.

MEETING THE CHALLENGESOF A CHANGING WORLD...

TOGETHER!

C H A M P I O NAT&TMorton Manufacturing Inc.

L E A D E RBoston Scientific NeuromodulationHonda Performance Development Inc.Mark Jenkins and Roxie Ramey

SoCal Edison – Anna Frutos-Sanchez

A D V O C A T EAerospace Dynamics InternationalAMG & Associates – Albert M. GiacomazziAM – Touch DentalBradley J. Kirst D.D.S. Inc.Gary and Diana Cusumano

Haas Automation Inc.Andrew and Elisa HorowitzDr. Susan KomskyMath Support Services Inc.Jim and Jill MelladyMitzi and Randy MobergDr. Skip NewhallNE Systems Inc. – Ed Padilla

Harold and Jacquie PetersenShepard Insurance AgencyDr. Dianne and Mr. Roger Van HookWells Fargo

L I F E T I M E M E M B E R S Lou and Rita GarasiTom and Colleen Lee

Please consider joining us!• Call the College of the Canyons Foundation at (661) 362-3435• Visit canyonsfoundation.org and click the Support Groups button

The Honorees• The 1975 CROSS COUNTRY TEAM made history when itwon the college’s first-ever state championship. The teamwas coached by Monty Cartwright.

• RAY WHITTEN led the softball team from 1984 to 2007,during which time the team won eight conference cham-pionships and competed in 16 regional playoff games.

• Basketball player NICK SANDERSON played for two sea-sons from 1989 to 1991. A two-time All-Conference win-ner, Sanderson was also an All-State honoree, ConferenceMVP and All-Star Game MVP. He went on to have a play-ing career at Brigham Young University.

• Before transferring to the University of Redlands,CHRISTINE WORBY made waves on the swim and waterpolo teams. She’s an assistant swim and dive coach at HartHigh and a first-grade teacher at Old Orchard Elementary.

• Former softball player CHANTAL PERSHINGwas namedConference MVP and All-State during her two seasons onthe 1999-00 softball team. She transferred to theUniversity of Santa Barbara and played for two seasons.

• ROBERT CORRALES was the first COC baseball player tobe named first-team All-State. He played shortstop onthe 1973-74 baseball team before joining PepperdineUniversity’s baseball program. Corrales lost his battlewith leukemia in 2009.