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About Portland observer. (Portland, Or.) 1970-current | View Entire Issue (Feb. 21, 2024)
February 21, 2024 Page 9 BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2024 Committed to Student Success and Expanding Program Offerings Achievements, Challenges and Strategic Initiatives Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards delivered the annual State of the College ad- dress on February 14 in Gaiser Student Center. Emma Sturm, president of the Associat- ed Students of Clark College (ASCC) kicked off the event and gave a report on increased student participation in college clubs, and ASCC’s efforts to increase student engagement in on campus activities. Student and veteran Ray Jackson also shared his expe- rience of navigating college studies and parenthood with the help of several Clark College student support ser- vices, including the Veter- ans Center of Excellence, Disability Support Services, Advising Services, and Child and Family services. During her speech, Presi- dent Edwards announced that the college’s equity-centered strategic plan was approved by the college’s board of trustees last fall and provides a frame- work for all the college does. The new strategic plan is cen- tered on students—to educate, empower, and elevate them to achieve their personal and pro- fessional goals. It also under- scores a commitment to stu- dent success, empowerment, and equity. President Edwards with Trustees Suzanne Donaldson, Marilee Scarbrough, Jeanne Bennett, Denise Gideon and Cristhian Canseco Juarez Community partnerships and philanthropy are essential for supporting student and col- lege needs. President Edwards expressed gratitude for the on- going support of Clark College Foundation and the communi- ty. Notably, a $1 million gift from the Cowlitz Indian Tribe will launch the Clark College Innovation Fund that will ad- dress pressing needs and drive innovation. This year alone, the foundation has awarded $2 million that directly assists more than 550 students. In addition, Clark has dis- bursed $24.5 million in finan- cial aid from other funding sources, including state and federal grants and loans as well as community scholarships. Enrollment has increased by more than 10% this academic year compared to the 2022-23 academic year. Approximately 8,683 students enrolled during the fall and winter terms. New programs, degrees, and expansion of academic offer- ings are driven by community needs and workforce demands. The college is seeking to add a Civil Engineering Technolo- gy and Construction Manage- ment program, Food Service Operations certificate and Civil Engineering Technology and Construction Management program, and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree that was recently ap- proved on February 1. The programs under devel- opment include Clean Energy Technician program that will expand the college’s existing Mechatronic Technology and Automotive Technology pro- grams to meet high-demand jobs and Surgical Technician program will be the first in Southwest Washington. Pending final approval in May, graduates of the two-year program will earn an Associate of Applied Technology (AAT) degree in Surgical Technology. Diversity, equity and in- clusion initiatives remain top priorities at Clark College. Achievements include increased diversity in hiring and ongoing professional development ini- tiatives. In addition, the college organizes The Northwest Re- gional Equity Conference, now in its fifth year. Looking ahead, reflecting on the college's achievements, President Edwards expressed gratitude for the collabora- tive efforts of faculty, staff, and the community. As Clark College looks toward the fu- ture, she said it remains com- mitted to student success, ex- panding program offerings, and strengthening community partnerships. Clark College continues to be a beacon of opportunity and excellence in the region.
