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About Portland observer. (Portland, Or.) 1970-current | View Entire Issue (April 17, 2024)
Page 2 April 17, 2024 Fostering Diversity in Animation! LAIKA is Contributing $60,000 to Support Student Scholarships and a New Animation and Graphics Degree Portland Community College has an- nounced a transformative partnership aimed at fostering diversity and inclusivity in the animation industry with LAIKA, the renowned film studio known for its ground- breaking and award-winning animated films “Coraline,” “ParaNorman,” “The Boxtrolls,” “Kubo and the Two Strings” and “Missing Link.” This collaboration reaffirms PCC and LAIKA's commitment to supporting educational initiatives and promoting equity within the creative arts. The cornerstone of this partnership is a $60,000 pledge from LAIKA to the PCC Foundation. Over two years, LAIKA will contribute annual gifts of $30,000 to sup- port the newly established LAIKA Schol- arship and program funds. This funding aims to create an associate degree in An- imation & Motion Graphics, enhancing educational opportunities for aspiring an- imators in Oregon. PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, From left, Multimedia Instructor Eric Fauske, PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings, Chief Marketing and Operations Officer David Burke and Production Supervisor Jesselee Kahaloa. stating, “This collaboration aligns with PCC’s commitment to providing accessi- ble, culturally responsive education. By working closely with LAIKA, we can en- sure that our students receive the training and support they need to succeed in the an- imation industry.” This partnership will result in three new “Animation” and “Stop Motion” courses, Changing the Way You Gamble If gambling has become too much and you find yourself spending more time and money than you’d like, it’s essential to recognize that change is possible, and support is available at no cost. Your journey towards a healthier relationship with gambling begins with your choices, and the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource (OPGR) is here to help. Whether you’re considering cutting down, taking a break, quitting altogether, or simply seeking a more mindful approach, OPGR provides a variety of tips, tools, and resources to assist you in creating a personalized plan. Really, It’s Free. What sets OPGR apart is the availability of trained counselors who specialize in supporting individuals affected by gambling, and the best part is, it’s all free of charge. Whether you prefer a call, text, or chat, OPGR ensures that help is accessible and tailored to your needs. Your plan, your timeline, and the support you deserve – all without any financial burden. as well as a proposed Animation & Mo- tion Graphics Program (the degree is not state-approved yet). This would provide students a comprehensive curriculum of- fering that blends traditional and digital animation techniques. “LAIKA is honored to partner with PCC,” said LAIKA’s Chief Marketing and Operations Officer David Burke. “As a community of creators, artists, and scientists dedicated to advancing the ani- mation medium, we are delighted to play a part in fostering the skills, aspirations, and talents of PCC’s student body. Our commitment extends to nurturing film narratives that encompass a wide range of experiences and to help grow the next generation of storytellers who will carry our art form forward. We can’t wait to offer mentorship and provide the neces- sary tools for these artists to thrive and shape the future of animation.” The partnership would help tap PCC’s position as a regional hub for digital arts education. Also, the partnership includes a PCC Multimedia student focused in- ternship opportunity and portfolio re- views with LAIKA, supported by the Oregon Film Office. “We are so excited to be partnering with LAIKA and its innovative pro- duction studio,” said Erik Fauske, PCC multimedia instructor. “The scholar- ship donations and program funds will provide financial support to incoming students and equitable access to cut- ting edge industry tools. LAIKA’s cur- riculum feedback, portfolio support and guidance on workflow will impact students to be job ready with relevant skills. At Multimedia, we provide an eclectic array of classes in many areas of production and we are so excited to enhance our animation, visual effects, and motion graphic curriculum.”
