5 Things to Know Weekly Update
Dear Colleagues,
Hello from LaGuardia Airport in NYC (which used to look like a high school locker room, but they’ve upgraded it considerably). I’ll be back on campus tomorrow after a short trip to see Sisters #1 and #2, and Son #2. I was sorry to miss a number of events, but I was able to see the Chancellor’s visit last Tuesday, which featured three (of many) faculty who have closed equity gaps: Berlynn Ching, Noah Levin and Maryam Khakbazan. They come from very different disciplines, yet their techniques are similar and similarly effective. As Maryam said, respect for and interest in the students as individuals is a great starting point. We hope to continue to recognize faculty, classified professionals and managers who have achieved great results for students – much more to come.
Meridith
As we end the academic year, it’s impressive to see all that we and our students have accomplished, and what we are on track to accomplish. The Chancellor believes we can be the first college in our system to close all equity gaps; I believe we can be the first college to be completely “zero textbook cost”: and apparently athletics believes we can win state championships in all sports. 😊 This past Saturday, Coach Amado and his men’s volleyball team delivered a state championship after an incredible season – which makes two this year for GWC, along with men’s water polo in the fall. I know the women’s teams especially are catching up. Congratulations to all of our student-athletes, coaches and athletic department!
Just as impressive are our theater productions, which regularly get rave reviews and awards. This past weekend, The Secret Garden directed by Martie Ramm opened – it runs through May 4. And the annual student art show, Discipulus, is up at the GWC Gallery – I was able to visit briefly, but will go back to spend some time taking in the student vision. Encouraging you to do the same!
This week is significant for many of our students and colleagues, as April 30, 2025, marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon. We will have a commemoration on campus at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 30 at the Student Union, and the District will have a separate event the day before, on April 29, at 3:30 p.m. at the Vietnam War Memorial in Westminster, with a reception at the Le Jao Center right down the street. Thanks to Jolynna Dang for taking the lead on organizing GWC's event, and our Trustee Phu Nguyen and others for putting together these important opportunities for remembrance.
Don’t forget Denim Day, also on April 30, to recognize victims of sexual harassment and assault – we will take our usual photo at 10:30 in the Student Services building lobby. Everyone welcome to participate!
Also on April 30 (it's a busy day): the grand re-opening of Nursing's new simulation lab and classroom. A short ceremony is planned for 4 p.m. just outside the nursing building, followed by light refreshments and tours. Stop by if you can.
Along with the events mentioned above, I’ll be at an ACCJC regional meeting with the VPs for part of Tuesday, where we should hear the latest about the federal stance on accreditation; helping choose the student speaker for graduation; and reviewing the Institutional Self Evaluation Report for our accreditation visit in Spring 2026. No more traveling this semester. 😊
CTE partnered with the Orange County Auto Dealers Association last week to host a job fair for our auto tech students in the Auto Courtyard. Nearly 40 students were able to meet with reps from several large dealerships in Orange County to explore career options. Thanks for Dorsie Brooks and Diana Rochat for their efforts in organizing such a great event for students!
