CITRUSVIEWNOVEMBER 2019 citruscollege.edu

LATEST NEWS FROM CITRUS COLLEGE

Season of Gratitude

Welcome to November, one of the most beautiful months of the year! The weather is growing cooler, the days are getting shorter and the trees are shedding their colorful leaves. While the natural splendor of autumn is enough to set this month apart, the added focus on gratitude makes it especially remarkable.

November has been designated National Gratitude Month. In this issue, we highlight several recent events and accomplishments that prove there is so much to be thankful for at Citrus College. Whether it was the remarkable work displayed at this year’s STEM Research Symposium, the generous donation received by automotive technology or the impressive awards presented to our external relations team, there have been many exciting developments.

Of course, the main reason that I am grateful this month is you: Citrus College’s faculty, staff, students and supporters. You have made the college’s many successes possible. I appreciate your dedication to our students, and I look forward to the great work we will accomplish in the months ahead!

Dr. Geraldine M. Perri Superintendent/President

External Relations Receives AwardsCitrus College was recently honored for outstanding achievement and excellence in design and communication.

The college’s office of communications and external relations was presented with five Medallion Awards during the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR) District 6 Conference in Park City, Utah, last month. Light pole banners, billboards, Instagram, enrollment postcards and LA Metro train wraps received top honors.

“I have the privilege of leading the communications and external relations team, whose creativity and talent is evident in the promotional and informational materials produced in support of the college’s goals and objectives,” said Melissa Utsuki, executive director of communications and external relations. “It is rewarding to be recognized for the great work we do for Citrus College.”

NCMPR is a professional organization for individuals involved in marketing, communications, public relations and enrollment management at community, junior and technical colleges. District 6 includes Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Utah and United States territories in the Pacific, including Guam.

Citrus College received gold, silver and bronze in the outdoor media category; gold in the postcard category; and silver in the social media category.

In addition to the five medallion awards, Doug Schultz, Citrus College’s communications supervisor, was named the District 6 “Rising Star” for 2019. This award recognizes newcomers who have demonstrated special creativity or ability in marketing and public relations. Since joining Citrus College in 2017, Mr. Schultz has implemented a request tracking system, built the college’s social media channels, streamlined department processes, and led a branding and design refresh across the campus.

“On behalf of the Citrus College community, I offer my sincere congratulations to Ms. Utsuki and her team,” said Superintendent/President Perri. “Effective communication is vital to any organization. The Citrus College Office of Communications and External Relations plays an important role in advancing the college’s mission, and these awards affirm their hard work.”

The Citrus College Office of Communications and External Relations includes (L-R) Anthony Orona, Cerise Guerrero, Edson Yu, Stacy Armstrong, Melissa Utsuki, Doug Schultz and Genaro Gascón.

AB 705 Progress Highlighted in National Video

The impressive progress made with AB 705 at Citrus College was the subject of a recent video series created by Jobs for the Future (JFF), a national nonprofit that “drives change in the American workforce and education systems to achieve economic advancement for all.”

The goal of the videos was to provide a blueprint for California community colleges by explaining how Citrus College successfully implemented AB 705, a new law that requires colleges to maximize the probability that students will enter and complete transfer-level coursework in English and mathematics within a one-year timeframe.

In the videos, English instructor Suzanne Martinez says the passing rates in English 101 rose from 54% in the fall 2017 semester to 65% in the fall 2018 semester. Similarly, mathematics instructor Victoria Dominguez highlights the success that students enrolled in Statistics with Support (MATH 065/165), a class designed in response to AB 705, have been experiencing. The 2018 cohort enjoyed a 65% throughput rate (completion of transfer-level math within one year of initial enrollment).

The throughput rate for students enrolled in other math courses in the fall 2018 semester was 45%.

“I am incredibly proud of the faculty at Citrus College, who have wholeheartedly supported the college’s decision to implement AB 705 and turn it into a brilliant opportunity for our students,” said Superintendent/President Perri. “I would also like to commend the faculty featured in the videos, as well as Dr. Gina Hogan, dean of language arts and library, and Michael Wangler, dean of mathematics and business. Due to this team’s collaborative and bold approach, our institution will continue to experience soaring success rates.”

In response to the JFF videos, community college educators from across California have reached out to Dr. Hogan and Mr. Wangler for tips and guidance navigating AB 705. On Oct. 28, Citrus College hosted an open house in which administrators from multiple colleges were able to participate in a Q&A session with Citrus College English and math faculty, as well as visit classrooms restructured in response to AB 705.

Michael Wangler and Gina Hogan. Suzanne Martinez and Victoria Dominguez.

Automotive Technology Program Receives DonationRepresentatives from a local educational and philanthropic organization recently presented Citrus College with a $10,000 check during a special ceremony in Covina.

Board members from the Greater Los Angeles New Car Dealer Association (GLANCDA) joined Citrus College faculty and administrators for the presentation on Sept. 24. The donation was made to the college in support of its automotive technology program.

“The new car dealers of Los Angeles are committed to helping provide career pathway assistance to student automotive technicians,” explained Bob Smith, GLANCDA executive director. “The career opportunities that exist for automotive repair professionals in new car dealerships pay well, and there is a real shortage of incoming technicians, with many aging out of the system.”

Citrus College’s Automotive Technology program has been recognized as one of the strongest in the nation. Maintaining excellent relationships with the automotive industry is one way in which the program ensures academic excellence. The GLANCDA donation is a result of the faculty’s ongoing outreach and long-standing partnerships with local dealerships.

“This award further validates the program’s excellent reputation, which its outstanding faculty and staff have worked so hard to establish,” said Superintendent/President Perri. “Their commitment to educating future automotive professionals is commendable and has made this recognition possible.”

The automotive technology program is planning to use the funds to purchase certification kits for on-car brake lathes and tire pressure monitoring systems as part of its participation in the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3).

Citrus College representatives joined GLANCDA members for a check presentation in support of the college’s automotive technology program.

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STEM Students Present Research at Symposium

Wildfires, frozen fish fillets and cosmetics were among the many fascinating research topics discussed during the 2019 STEM Research Symposium.

More than 250 Citrus College faculty, staff and students attended the symposium, which featured scientific posters highlighting the work of 29 Summer Research Experience (SRE) participants and 20 Bridge to the Geosciences students. Guests had the opportunity to view the posters and discuss the projects with the students who completed them.

“We know that a lot of learning takes place while teaching others,” said Dr. Marianne Smith, director of the Institute for Completion and Grants Oversight. “This symposium gives students the experience of communicating about their research to the public.”

Every year, the SRE provides a select group of students with the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in scientific investigations. Participants are placed in cutting-edge university laboratories or other research sites, paired with a mentor, and tasked with working full-time for an average of eight weeks. SRE involvement includes, among other things, conducting lab research and field work, identifying and reading scientific articles, public speaking, and participating in university life.

Participation in the STEM Research Symposium is the final requirement of the SRE.

This year’s cohort conducted research at one of seven sites, including Chapman University; City of Hope; California State University, Fullerton; California State Polytechnic University, Pomona; and Oak Crest Institute of Science. Projects included researching cosmetics and cancer risk; the relationship between weather and fire ignition; and labeling compliance, species authentication and overglazing identification of frozen fish fillets sold in Southern California grocery stores.

“The impressive work showcased at the STEM Research Symposium is a prime example of the innovative and unique opportunities that Citrus College provides for its students,” said Superintendent/President Perri. “These activities enable our students to discover their interests and passions while also providing them with practical experience. I am confident that each of this year’s participants has a bright future ahead of them.”

Citrus College student Rosa Noyola Roman discusses her SRE with symposium guests, including Susan M. Keith, president of the board of trustees, and Dr. Patricia A. Rasmussen, member of the board of trustees.

Former Owls Continue to Soar

Euin LeeEuin Lee, who also goes by Kathy, is a Citrus College graduate who recently transferred to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), as a psychology major. Ms. Lee’s incredible academic performance at Citrus College, which includes completing the honors program and serving as president of the Alpha Gamma Sigma (AGS) honor society, earned her a Transfer Alliance Program (TAP) scholarship from UCLA. Ms. Lee was one of only 26 students awarded the $5,000 scholarship, which is renewable for a second year as long as she meets certain academic criteria.

In addition to the UCLA TAP scholarship, Ms. Lee won a local scholarship from AGS for community service. As the group’s 2018-2019 president, she was integral in coordinating community service projects. The Citrus College AGS chapter is hosting a southern regional conference this fall, and Ms. Lee will return to share her knowledge and offer advice while serving on a panel of past AGS members.

“Due to Ms. Lee’s track record of academic excellence, I am confident she’ll secure funding for a second year,” said Honors Transfer Coordinator Brian Waddington. “She is a remarkable student who deserves this scholarship. Kudos as well to Honors Transfer Counselor Eileen Sin for continuing to help our students and strengthen our transfer connection to these impressive four-year institutions.”

Laura DiazEleven years ago, Laura Diaz and her three children left their home due to domestic issues, finding sanctuary at Good Shepherd Shelter in Los Angeles. After a period of healing, in which Ms. Diaz received counseling and developed her English-speaking skills, her family eventually moved into their own home, and Ms. Diaz began taking classes at Citrus College.

While working full time and taking a full course load, Ms. Diaz also found time to volunteer regularly at Union Rescue Mission in downtown Los Angeles. Her work ethic impressed Raul Sanchez, her academic counselor in the college’s Extended Opportunity Programs and Services program, who helped her transfer successfully to California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP), as a sociology major.

At CPP, Ms. Diaz’s determination and intellectual curiosity inspired her sociology professor, Dr. Caitlin Clarke, to recommend her for the California State University (CSU) 2019 Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement. This honor is given each year to students who demonstrate superior academic performance, personal accomplishments, community service and financial need. Included in the award is a donor-funded scholarship that ranges between $6,000 and $15,000. Ms. Diaz eventually wants to become a social worker so that she can help others navigate difficult and challenging situations.

Ms. Lee was one of only 26 students to receive a Transfer Alliance Program scholarship from UCLA this year.

Ms. Diaz’s received the 2019 CSU Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement. Photo courtesy Tom Zasadzinski.

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Jorge Cortez Receives ABCD AwardThe same month he celebrated 12 years of service at Citrus College, Jorge Cortez, transportation and warehouse coordinator, was recognized as the fourth and final ABCD Award recipient of 2019.

Mr. Cortez started his career at Citrus College in 2007 as a part-time gardener I, working his way up to full-time gardener III before joining the purchasing department in March 2018. In his current role, Mr. Cortez has become an integral member of the team.

Bob Lopez, the now-retired director of purchasing and warehouse, originally nominated Mr. Cortez for the award, stating, “Jorge has improved the level of transportation services for the college community and contributed to the increased efficiency of warehouse operations.”

“I am extremely grateful to have Jorge on our team,” added Shawn Jones, director of business services. “In the two years I have been at the college, I have yet to see Jorge without a big smile and a cheerful attitude. His hard work and dedication to the Citrus College community is evident in his willingness to go above and beyond in order to make sure the job gets done.”

When not at Citrus College, Mr. Cortez enjoys hiking, boxing, cycling and watching football on Sundays with his wife – he’s a Cowboys fan; she’s a Steelers fan. He also enjoys joking with close friends, family and co-workers.

“Mr. Cortez’s unwavering work ethic and leadership skills make him very deserving of this award,” said Superintendent/President Perri. “I am grateful for his years of service to the college, as well as the positive influence he brings to his department and to the college community. Hats off to Jorge!”

Mr. Cortez poses with Superintendent/President Perri (left) and Board President Keith (right).

Exhibit Offers “A New View” of Beloved InstructorAn exhibition of unseen paintings by Chris Van Winkle is currently on display in the Citrus College Art Gallery through Thursday, Nov. 17. Mr. Van Winkle is a former Citrus College visual arts instructor who passed away in 2016.

“A New View” highlights four distinct collections from the artist’s portfolio: Studio Paintings, the California Scene, Painting Trips and the Fun Zone. All paintings are available for purchase, and proceeds will benefit the Chris Van Winkle Memorial Scholarship managed by the Citrus College Foundation. Additional unframed paintings will be available for purchase on select weekends, including Nov. 2, 3, 16 and 17.

“Chris was an extremely talented artist. He loved Citrus College and was committed to inspiring the next generation of painters,” said Dyane Duffy, visual arts instructor. “This show offers guests a mix of his signature landscapes, as well as some abstract works that hint at his more playful and innovative side. I am excited that others can now discover this unknown aspect of the artist.”

Mr. Van Winkle served the Citrus College community for 30 years. In addition to teaching watercolor painting courses, he often took students on international trips to paint “en plein air.” A prolific painter, he was formally trained as an oil painter at the Ontario College of Art and Design, but found fame for his watercolor landscapes. Mr. Van Winkle was a signature member of the National Watercolor Society, serving as president from 2005 to 2007. His art earned him numerous awards and speaking engagements across the United States and abroad.

“We are thrilled to showcase this previously unseen body of work by Mr. Van Winkle in the Art Gallery,” said John Vaughan, dean of visual and performing arts. “It is fitting to have his paintings displayed before the college community that adored him so much. I am also confident this exhibit will encourage current art students to seek inspiration in the world around them.”

For information about “A New View” or to schedule a viewing appointment, call 626-914-8580.

Communications major Saray Martinez admires Mr. Van Winkle’s paintings in the art exhibit, “A New View.”

Citrus Community CollegeDistrict Board of Trustees

Mrs. Susan M. KeithPresident

Claremont and portions of Pomona and La Verne

Representative

Dr. Barbara R. DickersonVice President

Azusa and portions of Duarte Representative

Dr. Edward C. OrtellClerk/Secretary

Duarte and portions of Azusa, Monrovia, Arcadia, Covina and

Irwindale Representative

Mrs. Joanne MontgomeryMember

Monrovia/Bradbury and portions of Duarte Representative

Dr. Patricia A. RasmussenMember

Glendora and portions of San Dimas Representative

Ms. Nancy Gonzalez-VillatoroStudent Trustee

Dr. Geraldine M. PerriSuperintendent/President

citruscollege.edu

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