YVC Voice

The close of the academic year is a moment for our college community to both remember the ground we have covered and to look with positive anticipation at what lies ahead. With all that we have experienced over this past year, many of us may be more inclined to simply look ahead — to forget the challenges, the lessons learned, and even the trauma that has been part of our lives.

Yet overcoming barriers is an integral part of our college’s mission. Yakima Valley College students, faculty and staff are not inclined to shy away from a challenge, something that this edition of Campus Update makes clear.

In our Spring 2021 edition, you will read the stories of some of our graduates in YVC’s Class of 2021. Students such as Maribel Solano Alcantara, who came to the United States at the age of 4, was raised by a single mother, participated in YVC undergraduate research projects and now plans to earn her PhD. You will also learn about 20 YVC faculty who explored innovative ways to engage students and help them succeed in online learning environments as part of our ESCALA professional learning initiative. And you will meet YVC’s new vice president for instruction and student services, who brings experience fostering high-quality, student-centered learning experiences at one of the most diverse community colleges in the country.

These are just a few examples of how our college community continually strives to excel. As our Class of 2021 now begins the next chapter in their lives, I am filled with gratitude for their strength, determination, and desire to make a positive impact on the world. We look forward to seeing all they will achieve and wish them continued success.

Sincerely,

Linda Kaminski, Ed.D.

President