Newsletter Chancellor’s...2016/06/29 · 2015 (1,727). On Thursday, May 26, San Jose City College...

MAY 2016 | CHANCELLOR’S MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

SJECCD HIGHLIGHTS

Message from the Chancellor - Dr. Debbie Budd 2

Congratulations to Our Valedictorians 3

Commencement Photos at San Jose City College 3

Commencement Photos at Evergreen Valley College 5

We Mourn the Passing and Celebrate the Life of Larry Harris, Former SJCC Student Trustee 7

EVC 40th Anniversary 8

SJCC’s La Raza Commencement 10

Land Development Update – Letters to the Evergreen Valley College Community 11

Recognition and Reception Honoring SJECCD Retirees 13

Recognition for Larry Harris, Gary Cooper, and David Yancey 14

EVC Student Wins $3,000 AAUW Scholarship! 14

Coast Conference Championship 2016 15

Bond Sales 15

Student Success Stories 16

Kim Ho, EVC Co-Valedictorian 16

Georgina Perez, EVC Co-Valedictorian 18

Cody Sampson, SJCC Valedictorian 19

Armando Cervantes, SJCC/Metas Program Graduate 21

Gary Cooper Honored at the White House 23

Dan Hawkins Reappointed to the CCC Board of Governors 24

EVC Special Programs Awards Celebration 25

EVC Veterans Freedom Center Grand Opening 26

SJCC’s 3rd

Annual 5K Fun Walk/Run 28

Chancellor’s

Newsletter

San José · Evergreen Community College District

May 2016

MAY 2016 | CHANCELLOR’S MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

Chancellor’s Welcome Reception 29

SJCC Physical Education Building Groundbreaking 30

Cinco de Mayo Mariachi 31

Taiko Drummer for the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration 31

SVBJ’s 8th Annual Women of Influence Awards Dinner 32

MAY 2016 | CHANCELLOR’S MONTHLY NEWSLETTER | PAGE 2

Message from the Chancellor - Dr. Debbie Budd

Dear Colleagues: In this season of hope and excitement through celebrations of graduation, educational achievements and life-changing milestones for our students and families, we reflect on the important roles and responsibilities we have in making a positive difference in students’ lives. Thank you for your time and dedication in this important work.

Our commencement ceremonies were a great success. Your presence and interactions with

students, their families, faculty, staff, and the community was very much appreciated.

This year, combining both EVC and SJCC, a total of 2,223 degrees and certificates were

awarded (an increase of 97 percent from 2010 (1,128), and an increase of 29 percent from

2015 (1,727).

On Thursday, May 26, San Jose City College awarded a total of 1,489 degrees and certificates

(843 degrees and 646 certificates) – an increase of 137 percent from 2010 (627 degrees and

certificates) and an increase of 43 percent from 2015 (1040 degrees and certificates), with at

least 480 graduating students walking across the stage.

On Friday, May 27, Evergreen Valley College awarded a total of 734 degrees and certificates

(672 degrees and 62 certificates) – an increase of 47 percent from 2010 (501 degrees and

certificates) and an increase of 7 percent from 2015 (687 degrees and certificates), with at least

262 students walking across the stage.

Our students’ achievements are the result of their hard work, and the leadership and support

from our Board, faculty, staff, administrative team, and the community.


Congratulations to Our Valedictorians

Congratulations to this year’s valedictorians: Cody Sampson from SJCC, and Kim Ho and

Georgina Perez from EVC. For their videos, please click these links to hear their inspiring

stories.

SJCC Valedictorian Cody Sampson https://vimeo.com/sjeccd/sjccvaledictorian_codysampson

EVC Valedictorian Kim Ho https://vimeo.com/sjeccd/evcvaledictorian_kimho

EVC Valedictorian Georgina Perez https://vimeo.com/sjeccd/evcvaledictorian_georginaperez

We have been reminded of the significance of our Mission “to meet the diverse educational and

workforce needs of our community by empowering our students to become agents for

socioeconomic change” through inspiring images and thoughtful messages at these

commencement ceremonies, through our student stories and various events.

Commencement Photos at San Jose City College

(THURSDAY, MAY 26)

https://vimeo.com/sjeccd/sjccvaledictorian_codysampson

https://vimeo.com/sjeccd/evcvaledictorian_kimho

https://vimeo.com/sjeccd/evcvaledictorian_georginaperez





Commencement Photos at Evergreen Valley College

(FRIDAY, MAY 27)


We Mourn the Passing and Celebrate the Life of Larry Harris,

Former SJCC Student Trustee

Please take a moment to remember and celebrate the life of our former SJCC student trustee

Larry Harris. Larry attended classes at SJCC from 1968 - 72 and then returned from 2009 – 16.

He was a strong student, carrying a 3.56 GPA, and was present at the commencement

exercises to receive his degree in Communication Studies just the day before his passing. The

memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 9, 2:00 p.m., at the San Jose City College Gym.


EVC 40th Anniversary

Many from the community and Evergreen Valley College attended the 40th Anniversary

celebration on Friday, May 20. Trustees Rudy Nasol, Wendy Ho, Mayra Cruz, and Vice Mayor

Rose Herrera attended this special event.

President Henry Yong shared some of EVC’s historical information. He stated that Friday, May

27, is the 40th commencement ceremony, where a total of 730 degrees and certificates will be

awarded. Of the 671 graduates receiving degrees, 326 graduates are directly transferring to the

CSU system, and 127 graduates will be graduating with honors. The current EVC’s head count

is 14,000 students, with about 6,200 FTES.

President Yong thanked the community for their help with the passage of the 1998, 2004, and

2010 bond measures. EVC now has many buildings in addition to the original three buildings.

EVC opened solar array (30 – 40 percent of campus energy is from solar array); renovated the

Police Station and Central Plant; will open the South Campus in the fall which will house Math,

Science, Social Sciences and the Fitness Center; completed the Automotive Technology center

(a first rate automotive technology,) and he commended faculty for being forward thinking with

curriculum to include hybrid and electric drive motors. Many of our graduates are being hired by

the Tesla Corporation. The Visual Performance Art plaza and Central Green, which is the heart

of the campus, have been completely transformed as an open area for learning, collaboration,

and welcoming to all community members.

During my remarks, I thanked the community, faculty and staff for their support of the College. I

also provided a few highlights including: EVC has highest transfer rate to SJSU of 113 colleges

in the entire State, the great Automotive Technology Program, and the fantastic Nursing

program (students are in partnership with SJSU to get Bachelor degrees). We are working with

local high schools to build high school to college pathways to enable high school students to

concurrently take college classes and, ideally, graduate high school and get their AA/AS degree

at the same time. This helps make college affordable because when students are in high school

and are dual enrollment students, they don’t pay enrollment fees.


I also mentioned that there has been a lot of talk about the 27-acre project, and that we have

really heard the community about wanting to ensure that this project didn’t create more traffic.

As a result, our students have just passed the Eco Pass for VTA; and they will all purchase Eco

Passes in the fall, which will help cut down on the transportation foot print. I thanked the

student body leadership for getting the Eco Pass passed. We are working with the college, the

community and the developer as we all are partners in this effort. We are here to help students

get an education, and transform their lives and the lives of those around them.

Board President Rudy Nasol thanked the community for celebrating this 40th Anniversary with

us. EVC has great educational programs including those previously mentioned such as the

automotive technology, nursing, and transfer.

Vice Mayor Rose Herrera thanked Dr. Yong, Chancellor Budd, Board President Nasol and other

board members, and the community for attending this event. She was also a student at EVC,

taking a couple of classes. The college has helped thousands of students move on to four year

colleges, transferring, and preparing young people to work in local companies. The campus is

drastically different today. She congratulated the students for passing the Eco Pass and to EVC

for the grand opening of the Veterans Center the previous week. As a member of the VTA

Board, she said the VTA wants to see more people riding the VTA. She also attended the

Automotive Technology grand opening. We need to get the word out about how wonderful EVC

is and about all the programs at the college. She committed the assistance of her office for this

effort. She presented a commendation on behalf of the San Jose City Mayor and City Council,

and the million residents of the City of San Jose.

Professor Eric Narveson, as a History professor, adjunct faculty since 1994 and full time faculty

since 2001 provided some historical information about the college. He stated that history is not

just about the building, grounds, and the greens; but the people who have been and will

continue to be an important part of the life of the campus.


SJCC’s La Raza Commencement

Trustee Cruz and I were pleased to attend the La Raza Commencement at SJCC on Friday,

May 20. It is inspiring to see our students getting the support they need to succeed. As stated

by President Breland in his regular communication to the Campus via The ROAR on Monday,

May 23: “Thank you for participating in La Raza Commencement 2016. The Latino Education

Association (L.E.A.) annually hosts a cultural graduation celebration to honor the achievements

of students transferring, completing their certificate, or attaining their associate degrees. On

Friday, May 20th, 46 graduates and their families participated in this wonderful occasion - A

special recognition to all our L.E.A. members for their dedication and hard work for this

event. Thanks to your enthusiasm, the commencement was a huge success. We invite you to

take a minute to check the photos at the Metas Facebook page.”

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.592045180969227.1073741832.447956332044780&type=1&l=e2f7748262


Land Development Update – Letters to the Evergreen Valley

College Community

Following are letters posted on our District Website:

June 20, 2016

Dear Neighbor:

As summer begins, I would like to update you on the status of the proposed

development of surplus property located at Evergreen Valley College.

Based on invaluable feedback from the internal and external community, we have

made major changes to the initial land development proposal after lengthy

negotiations with the developer.

In order to balance our commitment to the community as well as our students, we now

plan to develop less than half of the 27 acres originally proposed.

The District and the developer are still negotiating the specifics of this new

agreement. As details begin to formalize, you have my commitment that I will continue

to provide you with updates to ensure that you receive information directly from the

District as soon as it is available.

I also want to assure you that, although the developer has submitted an application

for a general plan amendment to the City of San Jose for the development of the full

27 acres, under the terms of the agreement that we are formalizing, the developer will

develop less than half of the full 27 acres.

As Chancellor, I see this decision of achieving a sensitive balance as a direct

reflection of our District Core Values of Opportunity, Equity, and Social Justice.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact my office at any time.

Warmly,

Dr. Debbie Budd Chancellor 408.270.6402


May 12, 2016

Dear Evergreen Valley College Community:

I’m writing to update you on our longstanding discussions with our neighbors and the

community on the vision for the surplus acreage at Evergreen Valley College.

I have greatly valued and thank the community for its candor, plain talk and spirited

conversations and debate on the future of this site, which is of interest and concern to us

all.

As is always the case with issues of significant importance, there is much that can be

learned simply by listening. As the new Chancellor, I have learned, for example, that

many of you are concerned about the District’s ability and flexibility to expand and

continue to provide the quality education we pride ourselves on, in the future through

assets such as this acreage. Although Evergreen Valley College is one of the largest

community college campuses in California, I recognize the prudence of maintaining a

portion of this site for future visioning with stakeholders and the community.

We share a common commitment to working together, to maintaining our quality of life,

and continuing to improve access to the excellent transfer and academic programs

Evergreen Valley College provides! For that reason, I am happy to report that we are

now currently in negotiations with the developer to present the District with a scaled

down version of their original, 27-acre proposal. Understanding the community’s point of

view, the updated proposal will specifically not encompass the entire 27acres.

As Chancellor, I am extremely gratified to know that our students have a community that

is truly concerned about their success and well-being. Together, let us work to create an

environment where all of our students are provided with the tools and resources to

transform their lives. I look forward to our continued, transparent discussions over the

coming weeks and months.

Warmly,

Dr. Debbie Budd

Chancellor


Recognition and Reception Honoring SJECCD Retirees (MAY 24)


Recognition for Larry Harris, Gary Cooper, and David Yancey

At its May 24 meeting, the Board of Trustees recognized outgoing SJCC Student Trustee Larry

Harris, CSEA staff member Gary Cooper, who was nationally recognized as one of three CSEA

members at the White House last week, and outgoing AFT 6157 President David Yancey. They

have been a great inspiration for many of us through their hard work and dedication to student

success. The Board presented a recognition award and resolutions highlighting their valuable

contributions to the District community.

EVC Student Wins $3,000 AAUW Scholarship!

Congratulations to EVC student Beverly Pace. As shared by Professor Marjorie Clark of EVC

Women and Gender Studies department on Thursday, May 26: “…Beverly Pace has won a

$3,000 scholarship from the American Association of University Women, San Jose branch in

recognition of her hard work and dedication to the betterment of her community. Beverly is an

English major from Evergreen Valley College (EVC) who will be graduating tomorrow (Friday,

5.27) and transferring to San Jose State University for the Fall 2016 semester. She hopes to

teach English and Literature at the College Level. Beverly’s involvement at EVC has been

extensive. She is an Honors student, Phi Theta Kappa member, Writing Center and Tutoring

Center student worker, Treasurer of the English Language Lovers Club, and President of the

American Association of University Women Club (AAUW Club) which she established this year

through the EVC Women and Gender Studies program. Congratulations Beverly and thank you

for all of your hard work!”


Coast Conference Championship 2016

WINNING SOFTBALL TEAM (Source: President Breland’s THE ROAR, Monday, May 16, 2016)

Congratulations to the SJCC Softball Team for recently winning the Coast Conference

Championship!! We’re proud of the athletes and scholars who represent SJCC in

sporting events all over the state. This season has been a successful one and the Lady

Jaguars wish to thank the administration, faculty and staff for all their support this

season.

Bond Sales

On May 18, 2016, San José-Evergreen Community College District (“District”) successfully sold

its $58 million Election of 2010 General Obligation Bonds, Series D (“Bonds”). The Bonds are

the final installment of the $268 million Measure G (2010) bond measure.

Prior to the bond sale, the District secured very strong credit ratings of ‘Aa1’ from Moody’s

Investors Services and ‘AA’ from Standard & Poor’s. Each of the rating agencies noted the

District’s strong economy, finances and management.

Along with the strong credit ratings, the Bonds benefited from a very favorable interest rate

environment, one near 50-year lows. In fact, after the interest rates for the Bonds were locked

in, the Fed surprised the market by indicating that an interest-rate hike was on the table for their

upcoming June meeting, causing interest rates to subsequently increase.


While the District had $58 million of Bonds to sell, it received $93 million of orders from

investors for certain maturities that included money managers, bank trusts, and insurance

companies. The maturities that did not receive full orders were purchased by the District’s

underwriter, Piper Jaffray & Co.

The Bonds ultimately achieved a very low all-inclusive interest cost of 2.61%, and a net

repayment ratio (debt service ÷ principal) of 1.37 to 1, far below the legislative cap of 4 to 1.

Student Success Stories

In this newsletter, we will share some of our student success stories. Each of their educational

and life journeys provides us insights and inspiration that give great meaning to the work we do

collectively. We have included portions of their statements below.

Our featured student success stories are focused on four students, including the three 2016

valedictorians:

EVC Valedictorian Kim Ho

EVC Valedictorian Georgina Perez

SJCC Valedictorian Cody Sampson

SJCC - Metas Program Graduate Armando Cervantes

Kim Ho, EVC Co-Valedictorian (please see the following statements and/or

view the video at Link: https://vimeo.com/sjeccd/evcvaledictorian_kimho

My name is Kim. I was born in San Jose, California; and I have lived here most of my life. I graduated from high school with honors and a GPA of 3.5. Then I enrolled into Evergreen Valley College, and now I am here. I just received my Associate’s Degree and I am going to transfer to



UC Davis. Whenever I am not busy studying or working part-time, I like to spend time with people I care about, travel to interesting locations and dance. Being selected as valedictorian was such a big surprise for me. I didn’t realize that Evergreen had valedictorians. I was completely shocked but it was a pleasant surprise. I didn’t realize how big of an honor this was until I started telling my friends and families, and they gave me so much praise. I'm just so ecstatic and proud of this honor. I just received my Associate’s Degree for Transfer in Psychology, which is two years of college. When I go to UC Davis, I definitely plan to attain my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Then later on down the road, I plan to attain my Master’s in Psychology. My future aspiration is to be a successful and well-respected therapist or counselor. I think what motivated me was being able to help people. I am a great listener when it comes to communicating with people. I like caring about people’s problems, and I like to give advice. I want to be able to help people in the future when it comes to family problems or stresses that they have in life; and I want to be able to help them and give them advice when they need it. My college experience at Evergreen has been very successful. I feel that the staff and faculty here are very helpful when I come up to them and ask for help. I also believe Evergreen is a great launching pad to propel me into other institutions of higher education. Evergreen Valley College is in San Jose where I live so it’s a good distance for me to drive. I also believe that the area surrounding the campus is just absolutely beautiful. The Diablo mountain range around the campus is just so peaceful to look at, especially when I drive to campus from Blossom Hill Road. The staff here is very helpful when I have problems with homework, I would go to the library sometimes and ask the tutors there for help; and they are so helpful. Additionally, my professors are also so helpful. There is a spirit here of helping people, and that is what I really like about Evergreen. I would definitely tell the staff to keep up the good work because they are so helpful to me over the past two years. My advice to students is to just do your best in everything that you do even though you may be struggling with taking care of your family or working while going to school. It really is such a great opportunity for you to take advantage of when it comes to your education. To me, education is the basis to improve your quality of life for yourself and also for other people. It's best to take advantage of that and do what you can. I just want to say thank you so much to Evergreen for choosing me to be EVC’s 2016 valedictorian.


Georgina Perez, EVC Co-Valedictorian (please see the following statements

and/or view the video at Link: https://vimeo.com/sjeccd/evcvaledictorian_georginaperez

I was born in San Jose, California at the O’Connor Hospital. I have lived in the Bay Area ever

since. I have attended elementary school, middle school, and graduated from high school here

in 2014. I graduated from high school in 2014. I have a younger sister who currently is

attending high school. My father is a CNC machinist, and my mom is a business owner. She

owns a day care and has had it for about 17 years now. After high school graduation I decided

to continue my education at Evergreen Valley College to pursue the Associate Degree for

Transfer, and then transfer to a four-year university. I will be transferring to San Jose State

University in fall 2016 with the hope of finishing and Bachelor’s degree.

Being valedictorian, I feel excited but it’s also a nervous thing to be. You have a lot of pressure

to speak in front of so many students; and you have a very important job inspiring many

students of future academic goals, personal goals or anything they may be pursuing. I look

forward to, hopefully, moving the crowd to do better things in the future.

At EVC I will be graduating with an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) in Business

Administration, and after that I will be attending San Jose State University in the fall 2016

semester. At San Jose State, I hope to get a BS degree in Business Administration with a

concentration in Accounting. I haven’t planned that ahead into the future, but there is a

possibility that I may pursue my Master’s degree and hopefully become a CPA in the future. I

am glad I received my ADT because I believe it guarantees a spot at a four-year university so

you can continue your Bachelor’s degree. It fulfills all lower division requirements because

when you transfer to a four-year university, you do need to do upper division for your major.

It’s very helpful because here you finish your general education classes (e.g., Science, Math,

and English). And that is the best way to transfer to a four-year university. In the future,

hopefully, when I finish with San Jose State and become a CPA, I hope to live in the Bay Area.

I have always loved playing water polo. I feel like if I have the possibility maybe I would teach



water polo at my high school. It’s something I have always wanted to do. It’s my hobby so I feel

like I can contribute back to my community in that way, and help my high school.

Evergreen Valley College originally was not in my plan as a college choice; but after high

school, I applied to San Jose State University and I got accepted. However, I did not have the

financial means to attend SJSU, so I decided to attend EVC. Many people said it was the best

financial decision you can make to save cost rather than attending a university. And it has been

a blessing because if I hadn’t attended this college, I would not have met all the people I know

now who have become friends, including teachers. I call teachers friends because they have

helped me along the way academically and in my future goals and aspirations.

When I think about EVC, its best attributes are the teachers and the staff members, who are

always willing to answer questions. And there are many services that they offer like tutoring

services. I have gone for help for classes just for extra support, and they have never said no.

They always are willing to help you.

Cody Sampson, SJCC Valedictorian (please see the following statements

and/or view the video at Link: https://vimeo.com/sjeccd/sjccvaledictorian_codysampson

My name is Cody Sampson. A little bit about my background, I am a local guy. I grew up right

down the street in Willow Glen, and San Jose City College is kind of a natural choice for me. I

grew up with a wonderful set of parents, who were very supportive and pushed me toward

education. My sister, who is a personal hero of mine, teaches at a local high school, Del Mar

High School. My journey has some ups and downs. I have actually started a career. I worked

in kitchens for ten years of my life; and I never thought education would be something that I got

to come back to, and luckily I did.

Challenges in my life: I have had a rough road in my life to get here. I don’t think people talk

about it but the first time I went to college was 15 years ago. And what I didn’t know was that I

was in the early stage of alcoholism, and I am not afraid to talk about it. I think it’s something

people need to know that obstacles can be overcome, and I got nursed back to health through



the rooms of AA (Alcohol Anonymous). I got to come back here as a thirty year old freshman,

and that’s some of the challenges that I have faced in my life.

Being valedictorian at San Jose City College I think the greatest thing about that is: if I can sum

it up in one word, it would be honor. I have met a lot of friends here and I hear a lot of their

stories, and I got to represent them as somebody on campus who has overcome something and

have also flourished as a result of meeting some great people here. So I am honored.

I will be transferring to San Jose State in the fall, and I will be pursuing a Bachelor’s in social

work. I will be getting an Associate of Arts in liberal arts Social Behavioral Sciences from San

Jose City College, and hopefully I will be going to work on my MSW (Masters of Social Work).

My future aspiration, I wear this bracelet that is major in changing the world. I know that is

broad but I want to be a social worker and I want to be working on the policy and planning side

of things. I think there are a lot of things that are outdated that need to be updated, and I look

forward to trying to help people especially in situations that they think they can’t get out of.

That’s why I look forward to working in social work.

My college experience at San Jose City College from the get go has been nothing but

supportive. My first two instructors at San Jose City; Kevin McCandless and Dr. Trieu, taught

my algebra and macroeconomics classes. Those were and those classes weren’t easy coming

back after ten years. They pushed me, and they said I could do it. They showed me the hard

work, and they worked with me because I asked them to, and they asked me to use their

support and use all the wonderful supporting tools we have at the college. San Jose City

College is kind of a natural choice for me. I live right down the street. I probably drove by this

college seven million times. I also grew up with a neighbor that has worked here for 40 years,

and so we used to come to track practice with them, me and his younger son; and we used to

run around the campus, which was much smaller back then in the early 90’s and late 80’s; and

also sometimes on the Fourth of July he would bring us to the top of the press box and we got

to watch the fireworks at the Great America or the Municipal Stadium. It has been a part of my

growing up, a part of my history here, and I feel this is a part of my home.

The best attributes of San Jose City are definitely the people from the librarian all the way up to

the President of the College and students here. I have never felt like anything has been off

limits. I have heard some no’s; but it’s like no but we can do this, we can work toward another

way, or we can find a way to do it. It has been nothing but supportive faces here. And that’s

what I like about these people.

I have gotten a lot of advice at San Jose City College, a lot of great advice but I am not one to

give a lot of advice. I try to lead by example, to go about my day and try to do the right thing. I

have gotten a lot of support in my life, and I definitely couldn’t have done this alone.


Armando Cervantes, SJCC/Metas Program Graduate Following is the story of Armando Cervantes, one of the SJCC Metas Program student presenters at the April 26 Board meeting. He was the student admitted to the University of Iowa’s Carver College of Medicine for the graduating class of 2020.

I come from a predominantly Spanish speaking and lower income community. I did not get exposed to the idea of education until my junior year in high school. That’s when the idea of going to college was planted in my head, and I started dreaming of the possibilities of what can be under heaven. I haven’t stopped dreaming since. All my older siblings made it through high schools, but none of them continued beyond high school. I was the first in my family to continue education beyond high school, so I was the first to go to college and to graduate as well. San Jose City is my home. Everyone from the faculty, administration, and instructors have been my backbone and have been there to support me through it all. The Metas program, in particular, has been there in so many different ways, different support, and outreach. They definitely helped me to achieve my dreams and my educational goals. There have been a lot of challenges I faced in education and through life. The social disparity that I faced simply being in the environment I was born into. For example in the third grade I was made aware of the disparities when I was assigned a partner to share what we did in the summer. And the student partner told me he went to visit his grandfather’s vineyard. I asked what vineyard meant. And he looked at me, and then the look on his face was like how could anybody not know what vineyard means? I felt dumb. Reflecting back on it, I was not dumb. I simply hadn’t been exposed to that vocabulary in the educational system I was in. I was not placed in the right environment to really fulfill by full potential. And because of that I have had to work harder and definitely jumped through more obstacles than other people have.


A big motivation to succeed for me came because I want to inspire others of the same background to do the same. I don’t want them to struggle as much as I have. I was successful as I am the only one in my community, friends and family to make it beyond high school. I want to show young individuals from similar backgrounds that it’s possible, and that opportunities are available. Being a role model and showing what is possible. That’s what motivates me. I have been accepted into medical school, and will be transferring this fall to the University Of Iowa Carver College Of Medicine, class of 2020. I came back to City College to fulfill prerequisites for medical school. I completed all of my prerequisites here. Prerequisites include one year of general Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Organic Chemistry, and Math. I think one thing that made me stand out from other applicants was the support I received from everyone here. I asked my instructors and other people on this campus for letters of recommendation. And because I was able to interact with them more on a one-on-one basis versus the big universities where you are just one of three hundred in a classroom, they were able to know me on a deeper level than just the student who did well in their class. I feel they were able to write more about my character and who I am, and that’s what separates me from all other applicants. What sets me apart from other applicants, I think, were the letters of recommendation, my personal statement, and how I portrayed myself. Once I graduate from medical school and complete my residency program, I plan to come back and work in this community, especially with the underserved and underprivileged populations. There is a need. These people are my friends, neighbors and families; and if I am not taking care of them, who will? What the Metas Program did for me was it created a micro environment with like-minded students. Seeing my friends study makes me want to study more. If I didn’t have this community of individuals, I think my outcome would take longer, and not be as successful. Some of the best attributes of SJCC are the support staff and faculty offer students. It has been my perspective that everyone here wants to see you succeed, including administrators and instructors, and even your peers. I believe SJCC built a culture of success. That’s SJCC’s strongest attribute. Advice that I would give to students is to let them know that if you want to succeed, you have the support here. And faculty and staff need to continue believing in us. Students at this college don’t come from privileged background. Remember that sometime they need the extra help, that extra push. Keep doing that, it works. It’s because you believe in us and didn’t turn your back on us like a big part of our society did. One of the greatest impacts was that I was a leader in the PLTL (Peer Led Team Learning) Program. Students look at me as one who teaches, advises and offers support. I owe it to them to respond to the good ness they see in me, and this has had an enormous impact on me. Instructors will go far out of their way to make help such as staying after class to help students. Because of their help, we now have partnership with the UCSC for students to do research. I simply like to say thank you to all. I definitely didn’t do this alone. Lots of people work behind the scene to help students. Thank you to all the people I don’t see and don’t interact with. It is because of what you do behind the scenes that I am able to do what I am doing on stage.


Gary Cooper Honored at the White House

On May 10, the following message was emailed to All District in honor of Gary Cooper for being

recognized at the White House:

Dear District Community:

Congratulations to our colleague Mr. Gary Cooper for being recognized and honored as one of

the three CSEA members and one of the twelve school support professionals nationwide to

receive the “School Support White House Champions of Change” award.

“The Champions of Change program was created as an opportunity for the White House to

feature individuals doing extraordinary things to empower and inspire members of their

communities. The event was live streamed on the White House website at

www.whitehouse.gov/live/ on Wednesday, May 11, at 2:00 PM ET. Follow the conversation at

#WHChamps.”

Please see the following link for additional details: http://members.csea.com/memberhome/,

which states:

“White House to recognize school support

“Champions of Change”

Three CSEA members to be honored Wednesday

Gary Cooper

Groundskeeper and Arborist

San Jose/Evergreen Colleges Chapter 363

…“I am humbled to be able to pass my story on to the next generations so

that they, too, can aspire to walk in my shoes. For years, I have been able to

teach Black History to people who may not know our past. Now, as I mentor

young black men, I can show how I have been able to live my dream.”

“For nearly 40 years, Gary Cooper has been nurturing more than trees at the San

Jose-Evergreen Community College District. As a groundskeeper/arborist, Cooper is

responsible for keeping the grounds attractive and healthy at San Jose City and Evergreen Valley colleges in San

Jose, Calif. The only arborist at the district, Cooper leads a team in maintaining the college district’s many trees,

grounds, irrigation systems and a lake, getting athletic fields ready for a number of uses, and preparing the

campuses for a variety of special events—all with the least amount of impact to students, staff and faculty. Cooper

takes great pride in keeping the campus safe and attractive, especially with the added challenge of drought-related

water conservation efforts.

“Cooper is also a mentor to Evergreen Valley College students as part of the AFFIRM program, which assists

students in developing a positive self-image and provides an opportunity to acquire a solid foundation of basic skills

in a supportive environment. Cooper’s efforts have positively impacted many students, who have noted that his

support and friendship motivated them to achieve their goals. Cooper also volunteers in numerous community-

building efforts and civic engagement activities, embodying his belief that working together makes the world a

better place…”

Congratulations for a well-deserved recognition, Gary!

https://www.whitehouse.gov/champions

http://www.whitehouse.gov/live/

http://members.csea.com/memberhome/


Dan Hawkins Reappointed to the CCC Board of Governors

On May 17, the following message was emailed to All District in recognition of Dan Hawkins for

being reappointed by Governor Brown to the California Community Colleges Board of

Governors:

Dear Colleagues:

Please join us to congratulate our colleague Mr. Dan Hawkins for a well-deserved

reappointment by Governor Jerry Brown to the prestigious California Community Colleges

Board of Governors. Please see the following press release issued by the State Chancellor’s

Office:

MEDIA STATEMENT May 12, 2016

Contact: Paige Marlatt Dorr

Office: 916.327.5356

Cell: 916.601.8005

Office E-mail: [email protected]

California Community Colleges Acting Chancellor Erik E. Skinner’s Statement on

Member Reappointment to Board of Governors

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California Community Colleges Acting Chancellor Erik E. Skinner

issued the following statement on Gov. Jerry Brown’s reappointment of Danny Hawkins

to the California Community Colleges Board of Governors:

“Danny Hawkins is a tremendous asset to our Board of Governors and I’m pleased Gov.

Brown continues to acknowledge his experience and expertise,” said Skinner. “Hawkins’

dedication to our system is paramount as our board continues to help more students

achieve their higher education goals.”

Gov. Brown announced the reappointment on Wednesday. Hawkins…has served on the

California Community Colleges Board of Governors since 2011. Hawkins has been a

senior systems administrator for the San Jose Evergreen Community College District

since 1997, and was systems manager in the office of undergraduate admission at Santa

Clara University from 1988 to 1997. Hawkins has been a member of the California

School Employees Association since 1997.

http://californiacommunitycolleges.cccco.edu/ChancellorsOffice/BoardofGovernors.aspx


mailto:[email protected]

http://californiacommunitycolleges.cccco.edu/ChancellorsOffice/MeettheChancellor.aspx

http://extranet.cccco.edu/SystemOperations/BoardofGovernors/Members.aspx



The California Community Colleges is the largest system of higher education in the

nation composed of 72 districts and 113 colleges serving 2.1 million students per year.

Community colleges supply workforce training, basic skills education and prepare

students for transfer to four-year institutions. The Chancellor’s Office provides

leadership, advocacy and support under the direction of the Board of Governors of the

California Community Colleges. For more information about the community colleges,

please visit http://californiacommunitycolleges.cccco.edu/,

https://www.facebook.com/CACommColleges, or

https://twitter.com/CalCommColleges.

#

“The California Community Colleges Board of Governors sets policy and provides

guidance for the 72 districts and 113 colleges that constitute the system. The 17-

member board is appointed by the governor and formally interacts with state and federal

officials and other organizations. The board selects a chancellor for the system. The

chancellor, through a formal process of consultation, brings recommendations to the

board…”

Thank you for your valuable contributions to our District over the years and making us

proud, Dan.

EVC Special Programs Awards Celebration

I had an opportunity to attend the 7th annual EVC Special Programs Awards Celebration that

took place on Wednesday, May 18th.

EVC’s DSP Faculty Coordinator Robin Salak announced that in attendance were students

receiving a certificate, graduating or transferring, and they were joined by their proud family and

friends. Gullo II was packed with a record number of participants.

Associate Dean of Student Services, Victor Garza, chaired the committee that hosted this

event. The other committee members included Caritha Anderson, Marjorie Clark, David

Hendricks, Tina Iniguez, Ralph Jackson, Alla Markevich, Cam Martian, Flora Payne, Robin

Salak, Elizabeth Tyrrell, Ann Vu, and Vivian Yabumoto.

http://californiacommunitycolleges.cccco.edu/

https://www.facebook.com/CACommColleges

https://twitter.com/CalCommColleges



The special programs represented in the ceremony were: AFFIRM, ASPIRE, CalWORKs/WIN,

DSP, EOP&S/CARE, Equity Plus/YESS, Honors, International Programs & Services, Service-

Learning and Public Service Program, and Veteran’s Freedom Center.

EVC President Yong spoke at the event as did three students who were selected by the

Committee because they embodied all special programs. Those students were Martin Tran,

Michaela Murphy, and Derrick Newton.

It was a joyous celebration!

EVC Veterans Freedom Center Grand Opening

On Wednesday, May 11th, I had the opportunity to attend the wonderful EVC Veterans Freedom Center Grand Opening with President Yong and over 100 attendees at the Gullo II auditorium and also shared conversations at the newly constructed Central Green. EVC Veterans Program Director Liz Tyrrell began the program stating that we celebrate veteran students with the opening of the Freedom Center, a place to call their own on campus, and a resource available for them to succeed. Following her welcoming remarks was the Airforce Honor Guard Ceremony, and the National Anthem sung by Ms. Angela Tirado. Keynote speaker Daniel Avegalio, a Marine Corp veteran who served from 2004-2009, stated the Resource Center will help veterans transition to a career field or to the workforce, and also that “This probably is one of the nicest centers I have been to throughout the whole State.” Keynote speaker Armando Murillo, Santa Clara County Office of Veterans Services, said, “It’s about serving veteran students… These are benefits that you earned for yourself.”


Liz Tyrrell thanked EVC President Yong for his commitment to the Veterans Center, and for providing space and funding to create the Center. President Yong stated, “As veterans you have sacrificed for this country regardless of the branch where you served; whether in uniform or not, you served our country as all give, and some give all. That’s why they are not here. You have done your part for this country. Now it is time for the country to do something to recognize you. EVC is very pleased to serve veterans.” EVC Academic Senate President Eric Narveson stated, “I am an advocate for veterans and veteran students. Faculty supports veterans that are here. We are going to serve you with honor.” Sherry Gilbertson, Secretary of the Veteran Student Club and also one of our veteran students serving in the Army, shared with the audience a poem “Invisible Soldier” and said the poem is about her, and she concluded her remarks by stating, “That was me but I am an invisible soldier no more.” Co-Founder of the Student Veteran Club and veteran Matthew Huynh stated, “Having the Center is very important for veterans to connect. My lieutenant gave me the following message: ‘whenever you are feeling down, remember that we have the lottery ticket and that we won the lottery by being here in the United States: the abundance of opportunities, the freedom that we are blessed with. I can’t even describe it. It’s an amazing thing what we have here in the United States.” Current Reserve for the Marine Armando Mendoza stated, “I try to take advantage of the opportunity of going to school because I see that some people don’t have that luxury. I tried to volunteer as much as I can. If you fail, it’s the first step to success, and that hard times don’t last.” I had the opportunity to share some remarks with the veterans: “Thank you to all men and women who are here and who have served our country. We are here to help you get your certificate, degree, or transfer. I learned firsthand several years ago that the belief of the marines was ‘Leave no one behind.’ At one incident during a hiking trip, I had to be carried out, and there was a marine that joined us and stayed with my son for four hours until more help arrived. That caring and support is what I hope I can continue to do as Chancellor for each and every student, and each and every veteran.” Liz Tyrrell thanked staff and groups for their organization of the Veterans Freedom Center celebration, including Alma Garcia, Patty Blankenship, Tammara Chavez, Alla Markevich, Emmy Nguyen, Tiffani Lam, the Veteran students, Veteran Students Club, CalWORKs students, Andrea Mena, Sterling Warner, Reyna Avila, and Penny Garibay. Recognition also went to transferring veteran & active duty students Adam Brown, Brian Huynh, Courtney Joseph, Greg Judie, Ms. Kaur, and Daniel Phan. The program ended with remarks from Tammara Chavez, EVC Veterans Community Engagement Specialist and an Army Sergeant Major (only one-half of one percent of females gets this title) who had over 30 years of military experience and was deployed multiple times. She said, “There are soldiers that are out there and need education and aren’t getting one. Sometimes we have to be advocates for them; there is no soldier left behind.”


SJCC’s 3rd Annual 5K Fun Walk/Run

As reported by Dean of Kinesiology and Athletics Lamel Harris, “The SJCC Division of Kinesiology and Athletics sponsored its 3rd Annual 5K Fun Walk to promote Health and Fitness. This event was initially a project led by former adjunct instructor, and alumni of San Jose City College Megan Ink, who has since accepted a position at Western Kentucky University. Adjunct instructor Kathy Bruga (Yoga, Walk-Jog) took the lead this year with the help of some of her students in promoting and organizing the event. The event was held on the San Jose City College Campus on Wednesday, May 11, and was attended by students, campus staff, and faculty alike. The running path bordered the San Jose City campus, concluding with 4 laps around the City College track. Snacks of fruit, granola bars, and water were provided for the participants, with some funding assistance by the Associated Students Government. The event was a success with over 50 participants, with continued plans to make this an on-going event.”


Chancellor’s Welcome Reception

On Tuesday, May 3, the Board of Trustees via Executive Director Rosalie Ledesma, Foundation Director Steven Meneses and staff organized the Chancellor Welcome Reception at the Trianon Theatre. Nearly 100 community leaders including faculty, staff, students, and former SJECCD Trustees joined us in celebrating this festive occasion, filled with joyful and positive spirit. I appreciate the warmth and support shown to me by leaders representing education, elected offices, corporate, non-profit organizations; our Trustees, staff, faculty, students; and my family members, friends, and colleagues from neighboring college districts. I also appreciate the commendations from the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors President Dave Cortese, who said, “I am impressed with the energy and leadership she (Debbie) brings to this District… At the County in our deliberations, we often use this District as examples of where we want to go whether it’s on solar energy or economic development…” Other commendations came from San Jose City Mayor Sam Liccardo, Assemblymember Nora Campos, and the joint commendation from Senator Bob Wieckowski and Senator Jim Beall. Thanks to Board President Rudy Nasol for the kind introductions, in which he stated, “She (Chancellor Budd) has the energy, commitment, dedication, background and experience to lead this District toward success for all students.” During my remarks, I expressed my appreciation to all of our trustees for the opportunity to serve the San José-Evergreen Community College District. I also shared with the audience some highlights about our District: We serve about 26,000 students per year; and we have several goals we want to accomplish in the next months and years, including: build high school to college pathways (develop dual enrollment program so that high school students can get their high school diploma and at the same time get their AA degree; increase transfer to CSUs and UCs by expanding strategic scheduling; and build career technical education (e.g., $13.1 million grant for the SVETP program); expand internships for students to get hands-on experience; and expand adult education for developing foundational skills and CTE certificates.


SJCC Physical Education Building Groundbreaking

On Wednesday, May 4, San Jose City College celebrated the Groundbreaking to begin construction of the Physical Education Building.

President Byron Clift Breland stated this facility is comprised of over 39,000 square feet which includes an 832-seat gymnasium with full basketball court, offices, classrooms, fitness center, wellness lab, training rooms and locker rooms. He thanked those who were in attendance, including Board of Trustees President Rudy Nasol, Trustee Jeff Lease, Chancellor Debbie Budd, elected officials, community members, and citizens who supported the bond projects. He reminded the audience that there is live feed where the public can follow the construction or just stop by to visit.

In my remarks, I thanked all for attending this Groundbreaking event and thanked the Board’s leadership, community, faculty, staff and students for their work especially for equity, student success, and creating a strong community of learners through our athletic programs. I also reminded the audience that our SJCC Track and Field program has produced 21 Olympians and that these are stories we should widely share. Also, we have a winning softball team under the leadership of Debbie Huntz-Rooney and Coach Percy Carr is the winningest Basketball Coach in all of community college history. Trustee Nasol thanked the tax payers for supporting Measure I and subsequent Measures. Trustee Nasol recognized administration, faculty, including Coaches Percy Carr and Debbie Huntz-Rooney, staff and students for their contributions to our successes. He thanked President Breland and the College/District leadership on behalf of his colleagues on the Board. Coach Debbie Huntz-Rooney and Coach Percy Carr expressed their excitement for this construction becoming a reality after all these years that they as the college has been working toward accomplishing this for a long time.


Cinco de Mayo Mariachi (EVC 5.5.2016)

Please see a brief performance at the event on Office 365 or at the following link:

https://www.yousendit.com/download/cUJWd0VFNkc5Rlp4Tk1UQw

Taiko Drummer for the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Celebration (EVC 5.3.2016)

Please see a brief performance at the event on Office 365 or at the following link: https://www.yousendit.com/download/cUJWd0VFNkdxRTN2bk1UQw

https://www.yousendit.com/download/cUJWd0VFNkc5Rlp4Tk1UQw

https://www.yousendit.com/download/cUJWd0VFNkdxRTN2bk1UQw


SVBJ’s 8th Annual Women of Influence Awards Dinner

On Thursday, May 5th several staff members joined Vice Chancellor Carol Coen in attending the Silicon Valley Business Journal’s 8th Annual Women of Influence 2016 Awards Dinner at the San Jose Convention Center, where several hundred people were in attendance. We are proud of Vice Chancellor Coen for being selected as an honoree for the prestigious Women of Influence Award 2016. Her remarks at the podium before receiving her award were: “My advice came from a wise pastor who said, ‘Success is doing the right thing at the right time.’”

The keynote speaker for the evening was Ms. Maria Contreras-Sweet, the 24th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration. In her remarks, she stated that: the US has had 73 months of consecutive job growth, of which two-thirds of those jobs are coming from small businesses; Women today control 73 percent of household spending in the US, representing five trillion dollars per year that women are spending for their families; American women only received under 10 percent of venture capital available; American women today own 10 million businesses, representing one in every three businesses; and there has been a 27 percent increase in the number of women owned businesses in just five years. She stated that women can change the world through entrepreneurship. Her concluding remark to the awardees was: “Women are rising, and you have arisen.” Thank you for taking time to review this monthly newsletter. Let’s continue to work together to ensure that SJECCD is the best District in the Silicon Valley.

Newsletter Chancellor’s...2016/06/29 · 2015 (1,727). On Thursday, May 26, San Jose City College...

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Transcript of Newsletter Chancellor’s...2016/06/29 · 2015 (1,727). On Thursday, May 26, San Jose City College...