Annual Report 2021

2018-19 | 2019-20 Biennial Report CEDAR HALL, WCC’s first on-campus student housing complex, opened June 2020.

FROM OUR PRESIDENT Dear Friends,

Our community and our Nation have experienced a great deal the past year. Through these challenges, we as an institution continue to remain focused on keeping students first at Whatcom Community College. Faculty and staff have been responsive, finding innovative ways to continue to provide quality services to our students. And our students have demonstrated resilience and strength of character in the face of uncertainties.

While we initially thought and hoped that the pandemic would somehow disappear, it did not. What held us together during these times, was our promise to our community, defined in our strategic plan—a promise to embrace diversity, promote excellence, and create opportunities. As a community of educators and learners, we reaffirmed our commitment to becoming a more inclusive campus community and to be the voice and force for change. We engage in equity work daily and lean into uncomfortable conversations. As a campus we stand in solidarity with Black Lives Matter, condemn the violence against Asian Americans, and honor the work of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities. I am proud of the ways we have come together to adapt, evolve, and respond during these very trying times. This biennial report showcases accomplishments of members of our college community. These were not individual efforts, but a result of a collective commitment to excellence.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to the opportunities ahead to enrich the educational experience for students at Whatcom.

Kathi Hiyane-Brown, Ed.D. President, Whatcom Community College

WCC BOARD OF TRUSTEES Rebecca Johnson, Chair - President, Health Center Solutions, Inc. Wendy Bohlke, J.D., Vice Chair - Retired, former Senior Counsel, Washington State Assistant Attorney General Steve Adelstein, J.D. - Partner, Adelstein, Sharpe & Serka, Attorney at Law John Pedlow - Retired, CEO and board of director of Broadcast Electronics, Inc. Teresa Taylor - Economic Development Project Manager, Lummi Indian Business Council About Whatcom

“This has been an extraordinarily challenging year - the pandemic, threats to our democracy, and continued racial injustice. commitment I’ve witnessed by WCC faculty and staff in their pursuit of equity, while providing the very best in education and service to our students.” I am in awe of the hard work, dedication, and

WhatcomCommunity College is regularly recognized as one of the nation’s top community colleges based on student success. With affordable and accessible programs atWCC, students from every age and background can create their own pathways that align with their specific goals and interest. The College, a destination for cybersecurity, healthcare and business studies, offers two bachelor of applied science degrees, 50+ degrees and certificates, career and workforce preparation, online courses, and community education classes. WCC serves nearly 10,000 students annually. Vision Whatcomwill be an innovative college, engaged with our diverse and changing communities. Core Themes Achieving Success | Building Community | Advancing Equity | Enhancing Effectiveness Mission WhatcomCommunity College contributes to the vitality of its communities by providing quality education in academic transfer, professional-technical, and lifelong learning, preparing students for active citizenship in a global society. —Rebecca Johnson, Board of Trustee Chair

Online Learning

The health and safety of our students, employees, and entire community remains our top priority. WCC moved nearly all classes and services online in just a few days in March 2020. Each of our faculty and staff played a fundamental and critical role in helping students continue to access education through an incredibly challenging set of circumstances. The shift to online education was not easy for many, and yet the College learned valuable lessons that will improve all learning environments for years to come. Students had many things to tell us about what works well and how to innovate in the future; andWCC is listening.

“I think the college should keep more online classes, because in addition to helping me learn more, it also makes scheduling easier and makes it possible to take more classes or other classes than you could in-person.” – Student response, 2020 media preferences survey

Equity Initiatives WCC has made its core value advancing equity a priority; a campus-wide movement supported by the Board of Trustees, College leadership, faculty, staff and students. From Employee Resource Groups to the Equity Project, the Intercultural Center to the Campus Diversity Committee, as well as other campus initiatives, WCC provides opportunities for faculty, staff and students to create spaces meant to challenge, educate, and put words into action. In October 2020, WCC developed and implemented the position of the College Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer to coordinate and provide support in this work. Creating a campus culture of diversity, equity and inclusion requires everyone to participate. The entire campus community has committed to review

procedures and practices with an equity lens. Faculty are working closely with the Teaching and Learning Center to provide professional development focused on anti-racism practices in the classroom. “This work is difficult. It is uncomfortable. And it is so important,” says Terri Thayer, Interim College Equity Officer. “It requires us to reach deep and challenge our thoughts and actions. It requires us to not only seek change but also healing. It has required me to do my own work, heal my heart and have hope in the possibilities.” Below: Practitioner, poet, activist, and educator, Aaron Reader, speaks at WCC professional development day, 2020, on the theme: “Using All of Our Senses to Connect in Community.”

Emergency Funding and Support

The Foundation also partnered with student leaders to ensure student athletes and Cedar Hall residents had access to nonperishable food items in the Orca Food Pantry. The pantry has been serving students since it was established in 2016, but access has been limited due to COVID-19. With the support of partners like Haggen Food & Pharmacy and Phillips 66, the Foundation contributed $33,000 for the pantry during the pandemic.

In order to provide steady assistance to students impacted by COVID-19, WCC has quickly and equitably distributed nearly $1.5 million in emergency funding to more than 1,500 students. The funding comes from a combination of federal, state, and WCC Foundation funds. Thanks to Foundation donors, more than 100 students who didn’t qualify for other funding sources received a grant for tuition, remote learning technology, housing, childcare, or other emergent needs.

“I received assistance last quarter and I just wanted to thank you all so much. It helped immensely and I was successful in achieving A’s in all three classes!” —Lesley

Health Professions Contributions and donations from the local community are providing much needed Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for health professions education during the pandemic and is leveraged by other programs like the mobile COVID-19 testing from the Whatcom County Health Department. WCC’s nursing and other

TAGNW to recruit industry professionals to create a software development mentorship program to support future retention and equity efforts. The work will further enhance theWCC computer information systems (CIS) program’s paid work-based learning options for students, align curriculum to emerging trends, foster equitable access to the program, and increase engagement and mentorship with industry partners. These efforts reaffirmWCC as a leader in work-based learning opportunities, as well as information technology and cybersecurity education, which are high-demand and high- wage fields that have played a critical role in working remotely during the pandemic. Pending appropriate approvals, the program will begin fall 2021. Though open to all students, the new degree will specifically offer systemically underrepresented student populations a pathway to this career. Graduates will be prepared for employment locally, regionally, and remotely. generous donation. It is such a gift to be able to order the supplies we need without fear of depleting our budget and compromising the program in other ways. We would not be able to continue offering health profession training at WCC if we could not ensure protective equipment for everyone. We never imagined this journey through the pandemic would be this long and arduous, and as we press into another quarter of instruction in this landscape, there is nothing more critical to student success than the ability to provide every student with the opportunity to learn in a safe classroom.” -Carolyn Watson, Associate Dean for Health Professions

health profession students utilize face shields and masks during classroom and clinical activities to ensure they are safe while learning. The utilization of KN-95 masks and face shields, as well as testing, allows for continued learning opportunities while maintaining a safe instructional environment. In March 2021, WCC’s nursing students were able to give back to the community by collaborating with Bellingham Technical College and local healthcare providers on organizing a COVID-19 community vaccination clinic. “As the cost of protective equipment for our faculty, staff and students skyrockets, it is with much gratitude that we thank you for your

Computer Information Systems

The Technology Alliance Group for Northwest Washington (TAGNW) is supportingWCC’s efforts to develop a new associate degree in software development and expand the College’s offerings of paid work-based learning opportunities. After receivingmore than $230,000 in Career Connected Learning grants from the Washington State Employment Security Department in 2020-21, WCC partnered with

Through a shifting racial climate, a tumultuous presidential election, political polarization, and global health crisis, students persevered—some while holding down jobs and supporting their families. Whatcom Community College students consistently face challenges head on, and demonstrate their commitment to their academic and career goals. These are a few stories of perseverance, resiliency, community, and success fromWCC students and recent graduates...

MARIO ALEM

In his own words

2020 President’s Award winner Former Associated Students of WCC president Graduated in 2020 with Associate in Arts & Sciences Degree, with honors

Mario Alem was awarded the 2020 President’s Award for his significant

As ASWCC president, Mario also led the ASWCC Get Out the Vote campaign, a collaboration with the League of Women Voters aimed at increasing civic engagement on campus. He graduated fromWCC with his high school diploma, transfer degree, and a 4.0 GPA. Mario is now attending Western Washington University and is majoring in economics and political science. During his time at WCC, Mario also served on the WCC Foundation Board, and worked with his student leader colleagues to allocate $16,400 to support student emergency fund needs through the Orca Student Success Fund and Orca Food Pantry.

academic achievements and contributions to theWCC campus community. Mario began attendingWCC as a full-time Running Start student in his junior year at Squalicum High School. During his second year at Whatcom, he served as Associated Students of WCC (ASWCC) student body president. Mario’s commitment to service, leadership, continual learning, and inclusive, empowered community shines through. Notably, he successfully balanced academic excellence and his ASWCC duties with an above-and- beyond effort to support his peers and make himself available to the student community.

“Students have been presented with unprecedented challenges— working multiple jobs, supporting their families, all while attending Whatcom. Your donations go to supporting their success through these difficult times.”

CECILIA DeLEON

COABE Award

2020 Coalition on Adult Basic Education Outstanding Adult Learner of the Year Currently studying sociology

During the pursuit of her GED diploma at Whatcom Community College, Cecilia DeLeon battled stomach cancer and raised two children on her own. She had been a victim of sexual assault and then became an advocate against it while also serving members of her community as a translator and resource. She has truly demonstrated leadership while overcoming the most difficult of circumstances. Cecilia works with Community to Community, a local organization devoted to social justice for farm workers. In 2017, she actively stood against the Department of Licensing’s record-sharing agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement that impeded on the rights of immigrant families. In 2018, Cecilia lobbied against sexual misconduct among immigrant agricultural workers. In 2020, Cecilia was awarded the Adult Learner of the Year Award from the Coalition On Adult Basic Education (COABE—see link above). Cecilia has also been an incredible leader on campus. She is an advocate for voting rights, voter education, and initiatives that increase student voter registration at WCC.

In November 2019, 12 years after embarking on her journey, she earned her GED diploma. With her high school diploma in hand, Cecilia is now ready to transition into a full-time college student. She is now studying sociology at WCC, and says, “it’s all about empathy. It’s a process of walking in other shoes and learning from them and growing.” Each year, about 79% of WCC’s students pursue an academic transfer degree, while 21% pursue a professional-technical degree or certificate. Our students most commonly go on to major in business, social sciences, humanities, sciences and environmental sciences, nursing, or engineering. Students in professional-technical programs prepare to enter the workforce in industries such as healthcare, technology, business, education, and law and justice. Regardless of the program, WCC is committed to ensuring graduates meet the evolving needs of the region’s businesses and industries. Together we are providing students with the tools they need to fill high demand, family wage jobs.

“I want people to understand that no matter how hard life can get, don’t give up, just keep on going. Push for your dreams. Just go for it.”

2019 All-USA Academic Team WCC Foundation Earl Settlemyer Scholarship recipient Graduated in 2020 with Associate in Arts & Sciences Degree, with honors SURABHI SUBEDI

In her own words

Surabhi, an international student from Nepal, is brave, inspired, and ready to take on the world. Despite growing up in a conservative, male-dominated culture, she was raised to stand up against gender inequality and celebrate her abilities. Surabhi credits her grandmother who inspired her to pursue education, remain strong, and persevere in the face of injustice. “I am continually motivated by the fact that I have been granted an opportunity that millions of women born in many parts of the world are denied,” she said. Surabhi maintained a near-perfect GPA while balancing her commitment to the ASWCC. She served as the ASWCC vice president for clubs, and worked hard to foster connections among students by increasing club participation. Surabhi’s passion and energy for the role and her fellow students shined through in all

her interactions with students, faculty and staff at WCC. After graduating from WCC, Surabhi transferred to Smith College, where she’s pursuing a degree in government and environmental science and policy. The WCC Foundation offers more than $330,000 in scholarship opportunities to about 200 Whatcom Community College students each year. Awards typically range from $750 to $5,500 and are funded by private donations, endowments, planned gifts, local businesses, and partnerships with other area nonprofits. While some scholarships have specific criteria, most awards are available to any WCC student in good academic standing, including full and part time students, Running Start students, and international students. Last year, 60% of our applicants were offered a scholarship.

“I hope to empower girls to become independent and follow their passion.”

BLAIZE SEARCY

Simpson Intercultural Center student leader; Student Recreation Center ambassador WCC Foundation scholarship recipient Currently studying business and computer information systems

Originally from Atlanta, Ga., Blaize is in his third year of attendingWhatcom Community College. Demonstrating academic success, he is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society and Dean’s List. Blaize choseWhatcom to study business and increase his leadership skills. In addition to being a scholar, Blaize has been a student leader in the Simpson Intercultural Center, on-campus Student Recreation Center, and a member of the Black Student Association. He helps students feel like they belong on campus. Blaize says, “[Previously] getting students together for intramural football has helped me become more connected on campus. In the intercultural center it’s more than being social, it’s about being able to help other students.”

“I see how much my mother sacrificed for me. She pushes me to become great in this world, and I feel like receiving a college education is part of the journey.” The Simpson Intercultural Center supports educational equity and academic achievement for diverse student populations by providing access to resources and a safe place to connect through a culture of inclusion and respect. The center was named in memory of long-time WCC supporter Robert “Bob” Simpson, who helped numerous students pursue education. The Intercultural Center showcases how building community is an invaluable component of academic support, as well as an important way to work toward social justice. Bob believed in the importance of philanthropy, global consciousness, and welcoming different world views. Foundation-raised unrestricted dollars provide Funds for Excellence support to the Intercultural Center.

“My mother grew up in Jamaica and never had

the opportunity to attend college. I see how much she’s sacrificed for me to attend college.”

JODI BORRELLI

WCC’s 2019 Transforming Lives Award WCC Foundation Workforce Education Incentive Scholarship and Phyllis & Charles Self Scholarship recipient Graduated in 2020 with Associate in Science Degree - Substance Use Disorder Professional, with honors

Jodi says she has something to prove. She’s already proven that she is capable of succeeding in college, is motivated to improve her life, and that she is much more than her addiction. Jodi came to Whatcom after battling a drug addiction and time in jail. Getting connected with the Basic Food Employment and Training (BFET) program at Whatcom set her on the right path. BFET provided Jodi with financial support, helped her develop academic and career plans, and showed her it was okay to ask for help. Jodi graduated fromWCC’s substance use disorder professional program, and is looking forward to helping other women recover, heal, and get their lives back on

track. “I’m not the same person I was in my addiction,” says Jodi. “Today my children call me. They tell me they love me and are proud of me. I have been given a second chance at life.” WCC’s SUDP program is one of many health professions programs that prepare local students for in-demand careers in Whatcom County and beyond. Substance Use Disorder Professionals (SUDPs) provide assessments, individual and group treatment, and counseling to people who suffer from alcoholism and drug addiction. SUDPs work in a variety of settings, such as outpatient clinics, detox facilities, inpatient facilities, community health centers, schools, and the criminal justice system.

“If I could share one piece of advice with another student, it would be to find your motivation and take action.”

KRISTIN RUDY

WCC Foundation U.S. Bank Scholarship recipient Currently studying computer information systems and cybersecurity

Kristin returned to school to pursue a career she’s passionate about—cybersecurity—and to forge a better future for her family. Kristin is the first in her family to attend college, and she has found success at Whatcom while overcoming her anxiety and other challenges. Kristin said she enrolled inWhatcom’s bachelor of applied science in IT Networking- Cybersecurity program because she wants to help the community. And she’s already doing just that. She has been a facilitator at WCC’s Girls Go Tech camp, which aims to introduce middle school girls to careers in technology. She also served as a mentor at the College’s GenCyber campus for high school students, and was asked to speak at a Linuxfest NW panel.

“All my prior jobs were something I had to do, this is something I get to do.”

Students enrolled in WCC’s Computer Information Systems (CIS) and cybersecurity programs have the advantage of studying at an institution recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance / Cyber Defense 2-year education (CAE2Y). The College is also the lead institution of NCyTE (formerly CyberWatch West), a National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education center that is one of only two in the nation in the field of cybersecurity education. Our nationally renowned CIS and cybersecurity programs offer multiple degree and certificate options for students, including a bachelor of applied science degree in IT Networking- Cybersecurity, that lead to high demand, high wage occupations.

“For the first time, I found a career I’m passionate about: cybersecurity,” Kristin said.

“For the first time, I found a career I’m passionate about.”

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

WSNA Article

MSNBC Interview

Why did you chooseWCC? I choseWCC’s nursing program because of its reputation. I saw the nursing program had national board passing rates well above the national average, andWCC graduates were highly sought after upon graduating. Q and A with Justin Gill, DNP 2012WCC nursing program graduate University of Washington-Bothell, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Georgetown University, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Yale University, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) WCC Foundation Board Member What are you doing now? I finished my doctor of nursing practice degree fromYale University and am a nurse practitioner in urgent care at Providence Medical Group in Everett. I’m on the board of directors for the Political Action Committee of the American Nurses Association and serve as chairman of theWashington State Nurses Association (WSNA) Legislative/Health Policy Council. I’m also

teaching health policy and organization of healthcare at UW-Bothell. I like combining my passion for policy and politics with clinical practice.

What was your favorite memory ofWCC? My favorite memory was my pinning ceremony after completing the nursing program at WCC. It was a great event that made me even more excited about entering the nursing profession. Did you have a favorite professor? Kathryn Saulsbury, who has since retired, played a major role in supporting my leadership ambitions and encouraged me to become involved at the state level with regard to the state nursing student association. What doesWhatcom Community College mean to you? Whatcom represents a stepping stone for a stronger future for many students. For myself, it served as a launching pad for my career. I received an excellent education that enabled me to excel in my undergraduate and graduate education. It is an essential institution for Whatcom County residents.

“I chose WCC’s nursing program because of its reputation.”

Thanks to the creativity and collaboration of our faculty and staff, WCC was able to quickly transition instruction and services online to help students safely achieve their academic and career goals during the COVID-19

pandemic. WCC is fortunate to have faculty and staff who exhibit outstanding qualities and who are committed to the success and future of the College, our students, and the entire community. With financial support from the WCC Foundation, Whatcom has established

annual recognition awards for each of these faculty, classified and exempt employees. Most recently, the Hudson Family funded the classified staff excellence award into perpetuity to honor a dear colleague and long-time employee Fran Hudson, who

passed away in 2018. Fran encompassed all of the qualities of this excellence award and was awarded this honor herself in 2015.

Congratulations to 2019 & 2020 honorees.

MELANIE ZABEL Full-Time Faculty Excellence Award, Psychology

Melanie’s teaching practice is based on what works for students. But what makes her so effective is her knowledge, her willingness to try new techniques, and most importantly, her enthusiasm, humor, and compassion. When nominating Melanie for the Full-Time Faculty Excellence Award, one student said: “Not only is she a professional in the subject of psychology, she is one of the most understanding and down-to-earth people that you will meet. Students respect her and will go to her for advice on any life-related subject.”

Melanie’s fellow instructors praise her commitment, creativity, organization, and passion. She excels at building community with faculty in her department, as well as those across the campus. When a student asked her what is the key to a good life, Melanie was quick to respond with: “Empathy. In all things essential in this chapter of my life, it seems the solution always rides on empathy.”Melanie exemplifies this belief every day. CATALINA HOPE Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award, English as a Second Language After volunteering in aWCC classroom for English as a Second Language (ESL) in 2008, Catalina was so inspired working with beginning-level ESL students that she went toWWU to get her teaching certificate. Simultaneously, she was asked to teachmedical math inWCC’s Transitional Learning Department, because of her medical background. Catalina is gifted in her ability to effectively reach non-native English speakers, treating everyone with respect and compassion. She enjoys teaching a variety of classes, but her passion is working with immigrant populations. Catalina’s peers praise her dedication and commitment to her students and the College’s mission. She is known for contributing valuable and informed insights that helpmakeWCC a better place. One of her students put it best: “She is changingmy life not only for the better, but for the best. Everyone knows Catalina is an instructor, but for me she is a super hero!”

Catalina strongly believes in community and reminds everyone that “No one succeeds alone. We’re in this together!”

CYNTHIA HOSKINS Judy Hoover Award for Excellence, Exempt Staff, Administrative Services

Cynthia has been with Whatcom more than 15 years, most recently as the Assistant to the Vice President for Administrative Services. She is also chair of the Professional Development Committee where she shows her commitment to personal and professional growth every day. In that role, she has gained the trust of faculty and staff to develop high-quality and focused programming. She encourages others to give input and is always willing to put in extra effort and a smile in order to see others succeed. Cynthia is known throughout WCC for her constant thoughtfulness and consideration toward others. She brings a sense of humor, compassion, and expertise to all her roles, and can make anyone feel at ease with her calm and caring personality.

TOBI MARTINEZ FranHudsonAward for Excellence, ClassifiedStaff, Transitional Learning

For nearly 30 years, Tobi has been cultivating strong and long-lasting relationships with both students and staff at Whatcom. She is like the hub of a bicycle wheel with each spoke representing her connection and dedication to the Transitional Learning program, various WCC departments, Whatcom’s students, and the entire campus community.

Tobi goes above and beyond to ensure every Whatcom student has a chance to succeed. She is also an expert multitasker. Her colleagues marvel at her ability to support faculty, mentor part-time employees, explain complicated GED processes to students, and promote Transitional Learning programs and resources—in English and in Spanish!

Eric Davishahl Full-Time Faculty Excellence Award, Engineering

Eric began at WCC as the College’s first full-time engineering instructor in fall 2016. Prior to arriving at WCC, Eric had spent 15 years working at Everett Community College, where he led the growth and development of the engineering program. Already considered a state leader among engineering faculty, Eric immediately put his experience to work with a vision to grow the program, prepare future engineers for transfer and career success, and expand access and opportunity for an increasingly diverse student population. Within two years, the curriculum was revised and expanded, and program enrollment increased substantially. Eric is committed to diversifying engineering education and does the necessary work to do so. As a student wrote, “The main reason why I respect Eric the most is because he is an advocate for women in STEM and is trying to find ways to change the culture for those who are oppressed in STEM. He is the club advisor for the AWSEM Club (Advocates for Women in Science, Engineering, and Math) and hosted an event called Engineers Show Up and had tough conversations to shed light on the oppressed.” Beth Tyne Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award, Learning Contracts & Prior Learning Coordinator

Having worked at WCC since 1988, Beth has helped countless students finish their degrees and secure meaningful learning experiences through her facilitation of learning contracts and prior learning assessment. Beth’s work as a faculty member is unique at Whatcom. She helps to connect faculty and students together in the pursuit of individualized learning experiences that support student growth

and completion. As a faculty member said, “She doesn’t meet classrooms of students; in fact, she may have only one or two meetings with a student, but without her knowledge, expertise, connections, listening and understanding of student needs, doors and windows of opportunity would be unknown and inaccessible.” Beth takes the time with each student to ensure they have what they need in terms of clarity and support to be successful. She also takes the same time with the faculty mentors, working around their needs to create a successful partnership with the students.

David Klaffke Judy Hoover Award for Excellence, Exempt Staff, Financial Aid Services

Dave has been working in higher education and serving students for 39 years. As the Director of Financial Aid at WCC, no one is more responsible and involved than Dave in the analyzing of information, development and implementation of process changes, continued compliance with federal and state regulations, and ensuring WCC students receive the critical financial support they need. He helps staff reassure students in crisis, brings solutions with clarity and purpose, and always prioritizes student success.

Dave and the Financial Aid team have also been instrumental in effectively distributing additional emergency funding to students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dave’s commitment to student success and equitable access for support is clear. Employees say his door is always open for staff, students, and their families. He stops his work with a congenial smile and warmly asks, “How can I help you?”

Nancy McAbee FranHudsonAward for Excellence, ClassifiedStaff, Instruction

Nancy has been with the College for 21 years. As an instructional division coordinator, Nancy’s service to Whatcom is constant, all- encompassing and invaluable. Nancy is often the first face to greet new science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) faculty members at WCC. One faculty member said, “Whether it is helping us chase down a resource, clarifying divisional procedures, or just encouraging us with kind words and chocolate, she is the glue that keeps our division functioning cohesively. She is the very definition of ‘supportive’.” During a recent leadership transition, Nancy kept the division running smoothly and gracefully while taking on additional responsibilities to ensure faculty had what they needed to successfully serve students. STEM faculty also applauded Nancy’s creativity and ability to create a positive and supportive atmosphere while employees and students were working and learning from home.

Received $1.28 million in cybersecurity grants from National Science Foundation in October 2019 to expand the National Cybersecurity Training & Education Center (NCyTE). Awarded highly competitive National Endowment for the Humanities grant for “Situating Ourselves in the Salish Sea” project in January 2020. Approved by the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges in February 2020 to offer Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Applied Business Management. Cedar Hall, WCC’s first on-campus student housing complex, opened June 2020. Capacity was limited this year to prioritize health and safety of students and staff. The Phyllis and Charles Self Learning Commons, whichwas completedMay 2020 and centralizes key student learning and success resources into one building, achieved LEED Gold recognition for sustainable building practices.

Awarded $1.2 million from the U.S. Department of Education to expand student support services through a newTRIO Student Support Services grant, September 2020.

WCC Foundation announced successful completion of $2.5 million Igniting Futures campaign, which supports student scholarships and employee-led initiatives, in December 2020.

Named Career Connect Washington Intermediary institution and awarded more than $230,000 from theWA State Employment Security Department to develop new computer information systems programs in January 2021.