BCC Today Volume 12, No. 1 An Organizational Publication of BCC Fall 2016

In this issue— Introducing BCC President Rowena Tomaneng • Introducing BCC President Rowena Tomaneng (p. 1) Rowena Tomaneng, Berkeley City Col- lege’s new president, arrived in July and is • Umoja scholars continue as agents of impressed with the college and its commu- positive social change (p. 3) nity. Her story begins in 1972, the year she and her family immigrated to Los Angeles • Introducing Dean Lisa Cook (p. 3) from the Philippines, both parents seeking economic opportunity and educational ac- • Introducing Dean Francisco Gamez cess for their children. (p. 4) Early years. • Dr. Phoumy Sayavong to lead college’s The family later settled in the San Gabriel Valley where she and her siblings research initiatives (p. 6) attended public schools, including Cypress • Dr. Windy Franklin named interim dean College in North Orange County. There, of counseling (p. 7) inspired by several inspirational instruc- BCC President Rowena Tomaneng tors, Tomaneng decided on teaching as a • BCC offices, classrooms move to 2000 profession and chose to combine English Center St.; parking options change (p. 8) and history as fields of study. Her mother Division which housed Online Educa- also had a hand in her choice. tion, Library Services and the Student • College welcomes new faculty, staff and Growing up, BCC’s new presi- Success Center. administrators (pp. 9-10) dent heard stories about her grandfather, Statewide leadership. a community leader in their Philippine Tomaneng also held leadership • Oakland Digital provides creative village. She learned through her mother’s roles in state initiatives such as Basic resource for BCC’s multimedia artists stories of his commitment to people’s Skills, Student Equity and Student Suc- (p-10) well-being. That fostered her apprecia- cess and Support programs. She has ob- tion for history, storytelling and service to tained and administered state and federal • BCC biotech majors present research community. funding, including Asian American/Na- projects at 2016 CIRM conference (p. 11) Commitment to student success. tive American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions and Title III: Strengthening • State Chancellor’s Office approves BCC’s Prior to her appointment at BCC, Institutions grants. She worked on facul- new biology AS-T degree (p. 12) Tomaneng was for six years De Anza Col- lege’s Associate Vice President of Instruc- ty and district-wide administrative teams tion in Cupertino. Her responsibilities for many years, leading and developing included the college’s Academic Services program reviews and accreditation docu- Division which included the Office of ments. In 2013, nominated by Academic Equity, Social Justice and Multicultural Services faculty, she won the statewide Education; the Office of Professional De- Association of Community velopment, Pathways programs (Learning College Administrators’ Administrative Communities of Umoja, Puente, First Year Leadership Excellence Award. Experience, and IMPACT AAPI) and the On Fri., Aug. 19, she was pre- Vasconcellos Institute for Democracy in sented with the Asian Pacific American Action where, in 2006, she was a founding Leadership Institute’s (APALI) 2016 co-director and developed many commu- Pacesetter Award for Educational Leader- nity and educational partnerships. ship at the organization’s annual commu- BCC began an Umoja Scholars She also oversaw the collabora- nity celebration. Academy this summer. tive units of De Anza’s Learning Resources (see p. 2, column 2) BCC Today Fall 2016

Did you know? Introducing Rowena Tomaneng, President (from p. 1 column 2) Sun., Sept. 4 is the last day to add regular session classes and drop full-term classes and receive a refund?

• Mon., Sept. 5 is Labor Day holiday?

• Tue., Sept. 6 is Census Day?

•

Fri., Sept. 9 is the last day for students to file for a P/NP grade?

• BCC President Tomaneng (r., front) meets with City of Berkeley Youth Works interns. Fri., Oct. 21 is the deadline for students to petition for AA/AS Inspired scholar. Questions and answers. degrees or certificates? Tomaneng was a full-time English In a recent interview for BCC instructor at from 1996 to Today, Tomaneng answered questions about • 2010, teaching all levels of composition her background, observations, and plans for and literature. She was English Department BCC’s future. Fri., Nov. 11 is Veterans chair for three years and led initiatives to Day Holiday? foster equity in faculty hiring and cultural • What influenced your decision to competency. She served for two years as pursue a career in community college Interim Dean of De Anza’s Language Arts education? Division, and supervised over 175 full-time After high school, I attended and part-time faculty. and had great experiences BCC’s new president has actively there because my professors in English, engaged in culturally focused local, region- history and math cared about their students al and national organizations and has led and worked hard to provide additional advocacy campaigns for immigrant rights tutoring and mentoring. I tended toward and community policing with organiza- history and literature because I was fas- BCC Today tions such as the National Alliance for Fili- cinated by the art of narrative and use of BCC Today, an organizational publication pino Concerns, USA and the Coalition for imagery to express ideas and emotions. of Berkeley City College, is published two Justice and Accountability, San Jose, CA. One of my creative writing pro- to three times annually by the college’s She wrote for and contributed to a variety fessors inspired me to pursue English as Marketing, Public Relations, and Com- munications Office. E-Mail, FAX, Phone, of publications and serves on the advisory a major. He gave positive feedback and or Snail-Mail news and information to: board for the Association of American Col- made the classroom a welcoming place for leges and Universities’ Diversity and De- all of his students. It was this educational 2050 Center Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 mocracy publication. experience that influenced my decision to (510) 981-2852 In December, when she completes be a teacher and do the same. (510) 841-7333 (FAX) [email protected] (E-Mail) her dissertation on the educational dimen- • How has your teaching and administra- sions of Filipina migrant workers’ activist tive experience prepared you for Berke- Shirley E. Fogarino...... Editor identities at the University of San Francisco, ley City College’s presidency? Rowena Tomaneng...... President she will receive a doctorate in International/ Over the years, I have served Multicultural Education, with a concentra- in different higher education roles in the Berkeley City College is part of the tion in Human Rights Education. She holds community college system. My experience Peralta Community College District a master’s degree in English from UC Santa teaching in and developing a variety of which includes , Barbara and a bachelor’s degree in English programs has enabled me to have in-depth Laney and Merritt colleges. from UC Irvine. (see p. 4, column 2)

2 BCC Today Fall 2016

BCC Umoja scholars continue this fall Introducing as agents of positive social change Dean Lisa Cook Participants in Berke- ley City College’s summer 2016 Umoja Scholars Acad- emy (USA) proudly displayed and explained a variety of career path exhibits on Tue., July 26 in the college’s 4th floor conference room. Lead by Skyler Barton, a BCC Learning Communities coor- dinator and counselor, and by BCC counselor Allene Young- Hegler, BCC’s Umoja academy brought together more than 20 area high school students, each with a unique career aspiration. Dean Lisa Cook Participants included D’Yale W. Adams, Akeyla Addison, Ashlee Davis enters Berkeley City College this fall and plans a career as a pediatrician. Lisa Cook, BCC’s Dean Of Liberal Arts Sharif Allah, Paulo Athans, Er- and Social Sciences, is responsible for the nest Blackmon, Ashlee Davis, the construction of knowledge and critical college’s Arts and Cultural Studies, Educa- Kemony Gandy, Arsalon Gawhary, Arryon thought. tion/English/English as a Second Lan- Greely, Shakilyah Goosby, Cinque Hol- “I plan to be a pediatrician because guage, Mathematics, Modern Languages/ liday, Tiffannie Jones, Najee Jones, Remi I like to help children,” observed Berke- American Sign Language, Social Sciences/ Lambirth, Brianna Lipscomb, Maximilian ley High School grad Ashlee Davis. “My Human Services departments. “People Louther, Omari McCoy-King, Kaylynn Mc- pediatrician was my role model because she here are thoughtful and committed to stu- Coy, Cameron McGowan, Bianca Rodri- helped me through some serious times as a dents,” Cook observed. “Faculty and staff guez, Raynette Shields, Charles Van Meurs, kid; she helped to shape who I am.” express that they are very proud of BCC.” Gwendell Villasanta, Treasure Young and Paolo Athans, a self-described A native of New Jersey, Cook Danari Williams. The group begins college foodie, is focused on the world of culinary decided to head west after high school at BCC this fall. arts. “One of my passions is my ability to graduation to the University of Colorado “It has truly been an honor and create food with my own flair,” proclaimed where she hoped to develop interests in pleasure to work with this amazing group the future chef. “I like to put smiles on writing and journalism. Ultimately, her of scholars this summer,” Barton said. “As people’s faces and my inspiration is my path lead to courses in Asian Studies and their instructor, I have witnessed tremen- mom, who I observed when I was growing to a semester abroad in Nepal. dous passion for learning, teamwork, up and even now.” “I had to get away from my fam- leadership, and much more and have been (see p. 7, column 1) ily’s goal for me, which was to be a busi- thoroughly impressed and inspired!” ness major,” she recalled. “When I was Umoja, a Kiswahili in Nepal, I decided that I did not want to word meaning unity, is com- be in business or marketing because I saw mitted to enhancing the cultural how large corporations were selling baby and educational experiences formulas in the clinics there and cigarettes and increasing the persistence to the population at large.” and retention rates of African New directions. American and other students. When she returned to the states, BCC’s Umoja Scholars Acad- she decided to finish her education at the emy seeks to educate the whole Naropa Institute (now Naropa University student—mind, body, and spirit. in Boulder, CO). The college’s foundation The program actively serves and of Buddhist philosophy appealed to her. promotes success for all students Its writing and poetics program, founded through a curriculum responsive by Beat Generation authors, who included to the legacy of the African and Jack Kerouac, Alan Ginsberg (one of African American Diasporas. Informed by an ethic of love and (see p. 12, column 2) its vital power, Umoja engages Paolo Athans possesses a flair for creating tantalizing students as full participants in culinary fare; the future chef was inspired by his mother.

3 BCC Today Fall 2016

Introducing BCC welcomes Rowena Tomaneng Dean Francisco Gamez (from p. 2, column 2) experience and strong skills sets in dif- • What do you see as some opportunities ferent areas, particularly in academic and challenges for Berkeley City instruction, student services, grant writ- College? ing and budget administration. I strongly BCC’s location provides the col- believe that all areas of a college must lege with many opportunities. Not only are work together in a collaborative, holistic we situated next to San Francisco Bay, we environment to successfully foster student are partners with major cultural, techno- success. logical, and educational centers. BCC and I have worked with a wide range the Peralta Community Colleges District of teams on campus and in the external are strongly supported by our communi- community. My community organizing ties, from neighborhood organizations, city background with diverse racial, ethnic associations, small and big business, local and cultural groups has also taught me school districts and universities. the necessity of building relationships and Our CTE programs in Multimedia partnerships to strengthen an organiza- Arts and Biotechnology, for example, are tion’s capacity. Dr. Francisco Gamez strongly supported by partnerships with • You have developed many programs Berkeley and Dr. Francisco Gamez, Berkeley City to serve students and their communi- Industry partners such as Pixar and Law- College’s new Dean of Business, Science ties. Name several of which you are rence Berkeley National Laboratory. These and Applied Technology, arrived this most proud. partnerships provide career readiness and internship opportunities for our students. summer. He is prepared to “hit the My 20 years at De Anza College One challenge I see for BCC in- ground running” and is impressed with as an instructor and administrator allowed volves the sustainability of recent Statewide the college’s spirit and passion for student me to develop a variety of programs to Initiatives such as Student Equity. While success. help students succeed. Two that come to BCC and the District are committed to stu- “BCC’s faculty and staff mind are De Anza’s Learning Commu- dent equity and closing the racial achieve- are passionate about helping students nities Program where I was a founding ment gap that exists among student groups, succeed and creating positive experiences faculty member and faculty trainer. De ongoing state funding has not been secured for them,” he observed. “I look forward Anza’s Learning Communities program beyond the 2016-2017 academic year. As this fall to getting to know more people annually serves 1600+ students with high we review BCC’s Student Equity Plan, I and talking to them about their ideas, course success rates in both basic skills have an eye toward creating sustainable experiences and concerns.” and transfer-level courses. I also was the practices so that we can maintain a high Gamez noted that everyone founding director of the Vasconcellos In- level of quality services to our students. has a different perspective and that these stitute for Democracy in Action (VIDA), differences allow conversations about a nationally known community college (see p. 5, column 1) ideas from many points of view. student civic engagement orga- “Listening is important and I nization. look forward to having coffee and chats Because in part, due to with our faculty and staff so that we can student advocacy, the De Anza explore different approaches to student Foundation was the first com- success,” he said. “We can work together munity college foundation to to make the college the best that it can pass a resolution for fossil fuel be; I also want to learn more about the divestment. We also sponsored history.” Campus Camp Wellstone which A native of the Bay Area, trains youth and students in grass Gamez most recently served as Assistant roots organizing skills to win on Dean of Undergraduate Studies for progressive issues that affect their the University of San Francisco’s community, campus, or quality (USF) School of Management. During of life. I was excited to find out his time at USF, he held a variety of that BCC student leaders have at- administrative posts, which included tended Wellstone trainings. These President Tomaneng (c.) with DeAnza College President Brian directing the university’s strategic and and other activities have served as Murphy and Dr. Michael Chang, APALI executive director. undergraduate programs. bridges for my passion for com- She is recipient of the 2016 Asian Pacific American munity engagement. Leadership Institute’s Leadership Award. (see p. 8, column 1)

4 BCC Today Fall 2016

Rowena Tomaneng answers questions about BCC (from p. 4, column 2)

Another challenge that we need ing with staff, I saw collaboration to confront is our space limitations. at all levels. We have outgrown our space. Our new I hope to strengthen the building is necessary but renovating it relationships that already exist or constructing a new facility on the site here at BCC and facilitate creating presents some budgetary challenges that new partnerships. I’ve also been are being worked on by BCC and our letting folks know that I will be on District. I have resumed the meetings a listening tour of BCC in this first with our Capital Projects Team and I am semester. I am eager to learn BCC’s eager to move forward with this important history and what our community project. hopes for the future. I’ve also sensed Finally, we need to review our optimism and high confidence Promise initiatives. Programs like the among BCC students I met this proposed Oakland Promise and Berkeley summer. They want to aim high Promise which seek to guarantee financial and many have goals to transfer to access to college education to qualify- the University of California and Ivy ing high school students may mean that League schools. Achieving student equity at BCC increased operating funds will be needed In the short time I have been is a top priority for President Tomaneng. for faculty, support staff, financial aid and at BCC, I have been able to observe classroom space. In our work with the cit- our Student Ambassadors and how they with our local communities and provide ies of Berkeley and Oakland, we will need help students enroll and navigate their students with the tools they will need to also focus on sustainable funding for way around the college. They have great to navigate complex political and social these programs. I look forward to bringing customer service and people skills. I was institutions. these initiatives to our community partners also able to meet with some of our Mul- and potential donors. timedia Arts students and talk with them • Where does BCC need to focus about their work and career aspirations. I in the near future? • What are some of your observations saw the results of student projects in our From what I have observed in about BCC’s faculty, staff and students? new Umoja Scholars Academy, and I was my first three weeks, BCC would benefit In meeting BCC faculty this impressed with the students’ research and from implementing additional aspects of summer, I’ve found that they have a deep excellent presentation skills. our strategic marketing plan. This would commitment to our students and their support our goals for enrollment and with personal and academic success. They • How does Berkeley City College fit growth in FTES, we can position ourselves go above and beyond what is expected into the larger District and statewide for growth in FTEF. We have successful of them. I’m excited about their effort, community college systems? models of teaching and learning that are energy and commitment as well as the BCC serves the northern end of high impact practices, yet BCC efforts many student success initiatives in which the Peralta Community College District. have yet to be recognized within our re- they are involved. Our Berkeley location adds to Peralta’s gion and statewide. Look at our arts programs. We goals to be the leading education center Currently, we are focusing all have student work recognized on every in the region. We have close ties to UC areas on helping traditional students meet floor and this lets our students know that Berkeley and have a rich history in social their academic and career goals. However, their skills and talents are welcomed here justice, civil rights and activism. we need to better assess the needs of our at BCC! Peralta too has a rich history older adult students in addition to groups My experience with BCC staff is in social justice movements. The Black identified as disproportionately impacted that they have a spirit we call “pamilya” Panthers began at and in the 2015-2016 Student Equity Report. in Tagalog. There is a family feeling here Oakland is still at the center of social With the launching of the CCC Online that I will love being a part of. I was able movements for racial and economic jus- Education Initiative, I am interested in to attend the going away party of one of tice. In our roles as public servants, PCCD our staff members in student services. I employees tackle the urgent, life impact- (see p. 6, column 2) thought, “Wow! This is a family!” and I ing issues our students face. Because of was moved by the care and warmth shown. this, we need to maintain engagement And spending my first days in July meet-

5 BCC Today Fall 2016 Dr. Phoumy Sayavong President Tomaneng shares first impressions to lead college’s (from p. 5, column 3) With institutional planning, BCC research initiatives exploring faculty professional develop- and have hired Phoumy ment for online and hybrid instruction. Sayavong as dean of institutional research. Students who work and support their He will be at both colleges two days a families need to be given options for week and ensure that we have the evalua- course scheduling. I, like many faculty tions and data we need to make informed and administrators, am concerned about decisions about college programs and the retention issues that persist with online services. We are ready for a district wide education, so if the college increases its August summit where we will present the online offerings, we must also ensure that progress made in 2015-2016 toward our our students have access to online student institutional goals. services. For BCC’s new building, the college’s Building Users Group (BUG) • What do you hope to accomplish during will continue to work with our contractors, your tenure as BCC’s president? architects and the Peralta District, to move Recently, I heard BCC students forward with planning. I have already say how much the college has impacted met with the District’s Capital Project’s Dr. Phoumy Sayavong their lives and that they want to return after team, now under the leadership of Laura they graduate to mentor future students or McCarty, our new Director of Capital Research provides a firm founda- give back to BCC in another way. I want tion for community colleges’ success. It their stories to be included as part of my helps guide decision-making and ensures accomplishments. Aligned with our that people understand and use informa- college’s mission, vision, and values, I tion to develop classes, programs and services that can most benefit students, want to see students leave BCC engaged planning and institutional effectiveness. in equity and social justice issues in their Dr. Phoumy Sayavong, Berkeley communities, nationally, and globally. City College’s new Dean of Research, As I progress in my tenure here at BCC, wants to create a practical and understand- I am sure there will be other institutional able structure that allows people to use accomplishments that will mark my data and narratives that will support, keep presidency. track of and evaluate their work. Saya- • Name several projects where BCC vong arrived at BCC on July 1 and is also will be focused in the next year. working with Laney College to help that college develop its research protocols. Accreditation, institutional BCC President Tomaneng believes that instruction and student services collaboration ensures student success. He and Stephan Bera, BCC’s Research planning, the Milvia building project, and Systems Technology Analyst, will and implementation of statewide initia- collaborate with BCC faculty, staff and ad- tives are several areas where BCC will ministrators to develop research protocols focus in 2016-17. Projects. Meanwhile, space for more of- which support all levels of institutional Accreditation efforts will focus fices and classrooms are now located in planning and operations. on ACCJC’s recommendations from the the 2000 Center St. building, next door to “Building a structure that serves 2015 external evaluation team visit to BCC which is now open. everyone involves learning to ask good BCC. Dr. May Chen, who was Accredi- I would like to add something questions about what we do and the ef- tation Liaison Officer (ALO) during the about grants. BCC and other Peralta col- fectiveness of our efforts,” he observed. 2015 visit and Tram Vo-Kumamoto, Vice leges were recent recipients of a Basic “People ultimately come to understand, President of Instruction and current ALO, Skills Transfer Outcomes Grant. The col- appreciate and use research as a reminder have updated me on the college’s accredi- lege has a number of grant initiatives in of why they are motivated to do the work.” tation. The college has made progress on progress and in the future. If we wish to Sayavong views his role as our two recommendations (centering on apply for more funding from state, federal helping everyone find the best approach consistently reviewing institutional plan- or private sources, we can take a team ap- to designing qualitative and quantitative ning and resource allocation processes and proach. I and several administrators and research to meet specific needs and which Student Learning Outcomes assessment faculty members at BCC have extensive supports the strategies used in their cycles). The District has also made signifi- grant writing experience and we can com- disciplines. cant progress on the eight recommenda- bine our skills. (see p. 7, column 3) tions, according to our District consultant, Annette Dambrosio.

6 BCC Today Fall 2016 Umoja scholars: agents for social change Dr. Windy Franklin named (from p. 3, column 2) interim Dean of Counseling Dr. Windy Franklin, interim Committed to fighting climate change, Albany High Dean of Counseling, is responsible for School alumna Remi Lambirth counseling, Disabled Students Programs is headed for a career as an and Services (DSP&S), and the Transfer/ environmental policy analyst. “I Career Information Center. The fourth have a very progressive approach generation Berkeleyan is proud to be part to saving our earth,” she asserted. of the Peralta District, where she began “I want out leaders to admit that her career in Laney College’s DSP&S our planet is in danger and do Department. From Laney, she moved something about it. I’m really to Berkeley City College as a DSP&S interested in natural resources counselor and served on the college’s management, environmental sci- 2014-15 Accreditation Steering Committee ence or political science.” and as co-chair of the Standard 1A: Ernest Blackmon’s Mission of Berkeley City College group. and Arsalon Gawhary’s paths “I’m excited to be part of BCC’s will take them into the world of learning community; in the end, our work Remi Lamberth: Committed to halting climate change. business and finance. “I love to always is about student services,” she communicate, lead, sell, and man- said. “They are our customers and our age efficient business operations,” Black- worker and child advocate, I can make a clients; when you provide good student mon explained. “Business management and real difference in children’s lives,” he said. services, you invest in people’s future.” operations will be my focus in college.” “The community and the family can work During her tenure, Franklin Gawhary, a future financial ana- together to be a positive influence, even in hopes to assess and identify administrative lyst, is enthusiastic about finance. “I love emotionally challenging situations.” needs in counseling and disabled students finance,” he admitted. “Understanding the Future elementary school teacher services. “We’ll see what is needed and global economy and finance are ultimate McCoy wants to reach children in their how we can improve,” she said. gateways to progress and change.” formative learning years. Franklin earned a bachelor’s Akeyla Addison, Magee J. Jones “When I was at Berkeley High, degree in economics and a master’s degree and Kaylynn McCoy all want to help chil- one of my teachers influenced me to in rehabilitative counseling from San dren grow and thrive. consider teaching; that made me start to Francisco State University. She also holds Addison, who was part of Berke- think about good and bad teachers I had in a doctorate in adult and higher education ley High’s Academy of Medical and Public kindergarten through high school,” she re- leadership from Oregon State University. Service, will prepare for a career as a pedi- called. “I want to teach elementary school atric nurse. “I have always liked working because I want to take approaches to teach- with children,” she said. “This will let me ing that makes a difference in students’ Dr. Phoumy Sayavong give back to the community and influence lives. Some work well in groups but others leads BCC research the lives of young children.” need individual attention. I want to be able (from p. 6, column 1) Jones’s future occupation will to reach them in whatever ways that helps focus on children’s advocacy. “As a social them to learn best.” “Because I am new to BCC, I am learning the culture here and taking the first few weeks to examine, under- stand and have conversations with the president and executive team to set a research agenda for the college,” he noted. “Ultimately, I want everyone to feel confident in addressing foundation questions in areas of their work and this begins by learning to use tools that we already have. I look forward to working with and developing a research support system for everyone.” Sayavong earned his bachelors, masters and doctorate degrees in psychol- ogy from the University of California at Santa Cruz. Summer 2016 Umoja Scholars Academy graduates pose with BCC faculty, staff and administrators.

7 BCC Today Fall 2016

Gamez joins BCC’s BCC offices, classrooms move administrative team (from p. 4, column 1) to 2000 Center St.; parking options change Several offices and class- He created and led a co- rooms formerly located in BCC’s curricular professional development leased office and classroom space program for undergraduate business at the college’s 2070 Allston Way students. It helped prepare them South Campus have relocated to professionally and to be workforce-ready. 2000 Center St., two doors west of Even while in high school, BCC’s main campus at 2050 Cen- he chose higher education as career ter St. The South Campus building path. “I was impressed by how higher will be demolished later this year education could help students reach to make way for a new residential/ their educational goals,” he said. “I saw commercial development. how integrating career pathways into academics could be influential and how The 2000 Center St. lo- they could motivate students to finish cation will house expanded space their college degrees.” for college activities and services as BCC awaits remodeling of its Several BCC offices formerly at the college’s South Campus BCC’s new dean firmly have relocated to 2000 Center St., next door to K’s Cafe. believes that collaborative approaches recently purchased building at to improving institutional effectiveness 2118 Milvia St. (at the northwest parking options for BCC faculty and staff. starts with getting to know people, corner of Center and Milvia), leased by the A new garage with more spaces for BCC systems and their potential for solving City of Berkeley for offices. faculty, staff and administration will be problems and improving access and BCC services located at the new open by fall 2017. Meanwhile, parking is services. space include the college’s International available at these sites: What does he hope to Students Center, Mental Health Center, the accomplish while at BCC? Gamez will Umoja Scholars Academy, the Undocu- • Allston Way Garage (Next Door) work at the college and District levels mented Students Resources Center and • Kittredge Garage to help create better integration and classrooms. • Oxford & Berkeley Way Garage alignment of processes and systems to Meanwhile, Veterans Services • Equity Residential Parking strengthen BCC’s programs, budget has relocated to 2050 Center St., 3rd Floor, • Telegraph/Channing Garage processes, and infrastructure. These Rm. 347. • Durant & Center St. (Angled Parking) improvements will enhance student Change in parking options. • Promenade Garage experiences at the college and throughout Demolition and reconstruction of • Golden Bear Center Surface Lot the Peralta District. the Center St. garage across the street from “I’m still learning and need BCC’s main campus has created new • Golden Bear Garage (Starts 9/10/16) to see what we have in place, evaluate Faculty and staff should keep system strengths and weaknesses, then receipts and turn them in at the end of decide where to tweak and improve the month to their departments. Detailed them,” he noted. “Stakeholders need instructions and reimbursement forms to be involved in decision making at all will be mailed by BCC’s Business Office levels.” at the start of fall 2016 semester. Gamez earned a doctorate in Escort services are available for Education from USF and master’s and those who park a long distance from bachelor’s degrees from California State BCC. Contact the Downtown Berkeley University, Hayward (now CSU, East Ambassador Dispatch Hotline Bay). at (510) 550-7550. Escorts are available: Monday thru Friday: 7 a.m. to 10:45 p.m. Saturday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. For details about new parking facili- ties and their locations, visit: http://www.berkeleycitycollege.edu/wp/ Jennifer Lenahan, Veterans Services Coordinator, busserv/parking-garages/ welcomes students to BCC’s Veterans Center.

8 BCC Today Fall 2016

College welcomes new faculty, staff and administrators BCC welcomes new faculty members, staff and administrators who will share their expertise in a variety of disciplines and administrative areas. BCC’s new permanent faculty are: Claudia Abadia (Mathematics), Chris Bernard (Economics) and Melina Bersamin (Psychology). Adjunct counselors include Erin Dong, Myra Murillo and Richard Torres. New administrators are: Lisa Cook, Dean of Liberal Arts (see p. 3); Dr. Windy Franklin, Interim Dean of Counseling (see p. 7); Dr. Francisco Gamez, Dean of Business, Science, Technology, and Multimedia Arts (see p. 4); and Dr. Phoumy Sayavong, Interim Dean of Research, who will spend half-time at BCC and half-time at Laney College (see p. 5). New staff and position changes include: Joe Bay, Audiovisual and Multimedia Specialist; Stephan Bera, Research Systems Technology Analyst; and Midhun Joseph, Program Manager/Transitions Liaison for Adult Education.

Claudia Abadia, Mathematics Instructor “I am passionate about teaching math!” Mathematics instructor Claudia Abadia arrives at Berkeley City College from College of Alameda. She will help build and improve the Mathematics Department’s basic skills program and presence in the college’s Jerry L. Adams Learning Resources Center. She earned her associate in arts degree in liberal arts from Chabot Col- lege, a bachelor of science degree in biology from UC Santa Cruz and a master of science degree in applied mathematics from California State University, . She may be reached at [email protected].

Joseph D. Bay, Audiovisual/Multimedia Specialist “I love helping people use technology to achieve their creative and academic goals; BCC is a great place to accomplish this.” Joseph Bay is the Audiovisual Department representative and Multimedia Arts Program facilities and equipment specialist at BCC. He earned his associate in arts degree in media communications from Laney College and a bachelor’s degree in broadcast communication arts with an area emphasis in television production at San Francisco State University. Contact him at [email protected] or at [email protected].

Chris Barnard, J.D., Economics Instructor “I am excited to be back teaching in the Bay Area and helping students reach their academic and life goals.” Dr. Barnard will teach economics and business at Berkeley City College. He holds a bachelor’s degree from UC Santa Barbara with a double major in economics and English. He also earned a master’s degree in econom- ics from San Francisco State University. Dr. Barnard received a juris doctor degree from Widener University School of Law in Wilmington, Delaware. He is a member of the Bar and licensed to practice law in Califor- nia, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. He may be reached at [email protected].

Stephan Bera, Research and Systems Technology Analyst “I use District business intelligence tools for college reporting and statistical techniques for program evaluation; I am excited to share responsibility supporting student learning and increasing equitable outcomes.” Stephan Bera, Research and Systems Technology Analyst, will work with Dean Phoumy Sayavong. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UC Berkeley and completed graduate studies in educational psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. He may be reached at [email protected].

(see p. 10, column 1)

9 BCC Today Fall 2016

College welcomes new faculty, staff and administrators (from p. 9) Dr. Melina Bersamin, Psychology Instructor “I am excited about being part of an academic institution that focuses on supporting and creating new opportunities for students.” Dr. Melina Bersamin will teach psychology at Berkeley City College. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UC Berkeley and a doctorate in Human Development from UC Davis. She may be reached at [email protected].

Erin Dong, Counselor “Working with students here at BCC has been such a rewarding experience; seeing the relief on my students’ faces after they’ve gotten their academic plans figured out makes me happy knowing that they are one step closer to achieving their goals.” Born and raised in San Francisco, Erin Dong recently joined BCC as an adjunct counselor. She holds a bachelor’s degree in urban studies from UC Irvine and a master’s degree in counseling from San Francisco State University. She may be reached at [email protected].

Midhun Joseph, Program Manager Transitions Liaison for Adult Education “Retention and recruitment work is my calling; I love forming connections in the community, building relationships and being creative in how we can find solutions to equity and access issues.” Midhun Joseph was born and raised in Kerala, India. At age 10, he moved with his family to Chicago. Later, he moved to the San Francisco Bay Area to attend graduate school. He holds a bachelor of science degree in finance and marketing from DePaul University (Chicago, IL) and a master of arts in education with an emphasis in organiza- tion and leadership) from the University of San Francisco. He may be reached at [email protected].

Myra Murillo, Counselor “Whether you think you can or you can’t either way you are right.”—Henry Ford Mayra Murillo joined BCC this fall as an adjunct counselor. She earned a bachelor’s degree in social science from California State University, Stanislaus and holds a masters degree and PPS credential in counselor education from from San Jose State University. She may be reached at [email protected].

Richard Torres, Counselor “My educational and work experience have fueled my passion to continue working with the vulnerable, oppressed, at-risk, disenfranchised and unrepresented minority groups that comprise our diverse communities. For years, I have worked diligently to minimize the barriers for social equalities by empowering friends and families who are from ethnic and racial minority groups. I get great satisfaction from seeing people attain their educational goals.” Richard Torres joined BCC this fall as an adjunct counselor. A first generation college graduate, he is proud of his Mexican-American and his San Francisco Bay Muwekma Ohlone Indian ancestries. Torres holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California. He may be reached at [email protected].

Oakland Digital provides creative resource for BCC’s multimedia artists Representatives from Oakland Digital, an award-winning, connect with prospective employers. The organization’s tech not-for-profit design studio which since 2009 has trained local inclusion initiatives also inspire at-risk youth to explore career designers to create social marketing campaigns for business own- options based on their passions and diversity of life experiences. ers, presented in Natalie Newman’s summer multimedia arts class. Want to know more? Visit www.oaklanddigital.org or www. Presenters demonstrted how to use BRIDGEGOOD, a site where bridgegood.com. emerging visual artists can display their portfolios and

10 BCC Today Fall 2016

BCC biotech majors present research projects at 2016 CIRM conference Six Berkeley City College bio- in laboratories dedicated to technology students presented written and finding cures for Alzheim- graphic results of their 10-month research er’s, Parkinson’s, diabetes, projects to members of the scientific com- sickle cell anemia, blindness, munity at the California Institute of Regen- blood disorders, brain can- erative Medicine (CIRM) annual Bridges cer, and the consequences of Trainee Meeting held in July at Berkeley’s organ replacements. Claremont Hotel. Molly Fischer, Wanjiru Many of the BCC Kamau-Devers, Amir Jaberi, Andres Marin, CIRM interns graduated this Brian Siemons and Kevin Wu were among year with associate de- the nine 2015-2016 BCC CIRM interns grees and/or certificates of who joined more than 160 students from completion in biotechnology. throughout California at the prestigious The students also receive annual event. Students not only displayed a Certificate in Stem Cell their scientific posters during the two day Biology from BCC fol- event, but also participated in scientific lowing completion of their meetings in which they heard presentations internships and specialized from selected scientists from across the training at UCSF. state. They also received valuable tips for “We have kept job searching and career development. records of all of our CIRM CIRM intern Wanjiru Kamau-Devers presents her research Four of the 2015-16 participants students for the past six on disease and nervous system regeneration. were retained as technicians in the labs years,” said Dr. Barbara where they interned and two were of- Des Rochers, program director of BCC’s BCC’s biotechnology program fered full time positions: Fischer is a staff CIRM grant and cochair of BCC’s Science welcomes all students—from recent high research associate in Dr. Tejal Desai’s thera- Department. “Many have taken techni- school graduates to those with college peutic microtechnology and nanotechnol- cian positions in research and industrial degrees—who may have been in the ogy lab at UC San Francisco (UCSF) and laboratories while others have gone on for workplace for a long time and are seeking Brian Siemens is a staff research associate their bachelor’s, graduate and professional retraining. “We welcome older students in Dr. Kevin Healy’s biomaterials and tissue science degrees, including medical and and students with degrees,” Des Rochers engineering lab at UC Berkeley. pharmacy schools.” said. “Some of our students have degrees CIRM provides paid internships Des Rochers first developed in the STEM fields but many do not.” at leading research institutions, including the college’s $2.3 million CIRM grant in For example, Molly Fischer came Children’s Hospital and Research Center 2010. BCC’s rigorous bioscience program to BCC’s program with a degree in studio (CHORI), Oakland, UC Berkeley and prepares people for jobs based on the latest arts; Wanjiru Kamau-Devers with a degree UCSF. Student projects focus primarily laboratory technology and is highly respect- in African studies and history; Kevin Wu on stem cell research and bioengineering ed by the Bay Area’s science community. with a degree in English. All have excelled. “Our gradu- “People switch because something about ates are in biotech- science grabs them and sparks their curios- nology and science ity; they get turned on by the possibilities,” labs all over the Bay DeRochers noted. Area; many students CIRM already has selected six get jobs in the labs in new BCC 2016-17 science interns. They which they intern and are Cerise Bennett, Richard Chen, Tracy many will move on to Huynh, Jason Luke, Saahil Singh and Mou- higher degrees,” noted fida Taileb. Bennett will work at Lawrence Des Rochers. “And a Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) number of laboratories and Luke will be at UC Berkeley. Chen, in the Bay Area have Huynh, Singh and Taileb were assigned to sent their employees labs at UC San Francisco. to BCC for continuing For details about CIRM stem cell education.” internships and biotechnology, biology and other science programs at BCC, contact Brian Siemens (r.) explains his research project at CIRM’s July 2016 Dr. Barbara Des Rochers at bdesrochers@ Bridges Trainee meeting at Berkeley’s Claremont Hotel. peralta.edu or Dr. Siraj Omar at somar@ peralta.edu.

11 BCC Today Fall 2016 BCC Calendar State Chancellor’s Office approves BCC’s new August 29-September 23 • Mon., Aug. 29— biology Associate in Science for Transfer degree 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Asian-American Donor Program Bone Marrow Drive, 1st Floor Tabling Area Congratulations are in order 10 a.m.-Noon, Curriculum, TLC, Rm. 341 for BCC’s Science Department faculty. Noon-1:30 p.m., Roundtable, Rms. 451A&B Efforts by Dr. Barbara Des Rochers, Dr. Noon-1:30 p.m., Club Rush, BCC Atrium Pieter De Haan and Dr. Siraj Omar to • Tue., Aug. 30— develop a biology Associate in Sci- Noon-1:30 p.m., Club Rush, BCC Atrium ence for Transfer (AS-T) degree were • Wed., Aug. 31— Noon-1:30 p.m., Club Rush, BCC Atrium rewarded this summer. 6-7 p.m., Biology Boot Camp, Rm. 513 Berkeley City College was only • Thur., Sept. 1— one of a small number of community 10-11 a.m., Student Access/Equity, Rm. TBA colleges whose biology AS-T degrees 10 a.m.-Noon, Curriculum, 3rd. Fl., Rm. 341 were approved by the State Chancellors 12:15-1:15 p.m., Biology Boot Camp, Rm. 513 BCC’s AS-T in biology was approved this Office of the California Community col- Noon-1:30 p.m., Club Rush, BCC Atrium summer by the State Chancellor’s Office. • Sun., Sept. 4— leges this summer. • Last day for students to add or drop full-term classes without a “W”; last day to drop full- term classes and receive a refund. • Mon., Sept. 5— Introducing Dean Lisa Cook Holiday—Labor Day (from p. 3, column 3) so,” she said. “I was impressed with the • Tue., Sept. 6 2-3:30 p.m., Student Services, Rms. 451A&B Cook’s instructors) and Lawrence Ferling- thoughtfulness of the faculty and adminis- • Census Day: Instructors verify enrollment hetti, inspired her. tration at BCC and decided to take a dean’s in classes. “After graduation, I found myself post only if I could do it here.” • Wed., Sept. 7— working in a restaurant, so I applied to the She noted that the best part of her Noon-1:30 p.m., Student Ambassadors, Rm. 451A Peace Corps and was assigned to the Mar- work is helping to change the way students • Thur., Sept. 8— shall Islands,” she said. “I taught Kinder- experience learning. “I love supporting 9-11 a.m., Counselors, Rm. 451A 10 a.m., Curriculum Tech Review, TLC, Rm. 341 garten through eighth grade, and learned to faculty who are in the process of making 10-11 a.m., Student Access/Equity, Rm. TBA teach with no facilities or supplies by using their programs the best that they can be,” 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Veterans Center Open House, my creativity.” she admitted. “Being the best that you can 3rd Floor, Rm. 347 “On the day I arrived in my class- be is a different goal than having a good Noon-1:30 p.m., Education Committee, Rms. 451A&B room, I found that it was an open walled program; I want to support faculty so that 5:30-10 p.m., Dunlop: Microsoft Group, Rms. 451A&B church,” she explained. “The textbooks they can be the best that they can be.” • Fri., Sept. 9— • Last day for students to file for P/NP option. were infested with bugs so we had to make Positive experience. up everything—curriculum, lesson plans, • Sat., Sept. 10— Cook observed that BCC provides • 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Social Justice for the Deaf writing tools—from scratch. I had to figure a positive experience for students. “They Community (Lectures), BCC Auditorium out what I was going to do with what we expect a lot because they have received a • Mon., Sept. 12— had to help students reach their goals.” lot, and it’s a place where they have found Noon-1:30 p.m., Roundtable, Rms. 451A&B After serving in the Peace Corps, their direction,” she observed. “Many feel • Wed., Sept. 14— Cook married another volunteer, and she that this is their home; they’ve graduated 9:30-11 a.m., President’s Cabinet, Rm. 451A and her husband taught for a time in China. 11 a.m.-Noon, Executive Cabinet, Rm. 451A but come back because they want to help.” Noon-1:30 p.m., Student Ambassadors, Rm. 451A She then earned a master’s degree in ap- What does she hope to accom- • Thur., Sept. 15— plied linguistics from the University of plish while at BCC? For one, she would 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., TAP Meetings, Rms. 451A&B Massachusetts at Boston and began teach- like to help streamline processes so that 10-11 a.m., Student Access/Equity, Rm. TBA ing at community colleges. In 1998, when faculty can do their work. “For example, 10 a.m.-Noon, Curriculum, TLC, Rm. 341 the couple moved to California, she began we really need e-forms so that people can • Tue., Sept. 20— teaching English as a Second Language 2-3:30 p.m., Student Services, Rms. 451A&B submit remotely and track the progress of at Laney College, where she later became their requests,” she said. • Wed., Sept. 21— chair of the ESL department. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Study Abroad Fair, BCC Atrium Two initiatives that she will help Faculty leader. • Thur., Sept. 22— to develop are the Bridging the Gap Pro- 10-11 a.m., Student Access/Equity, Rm. TBA Cook held several other faculty gram in mathematics and the Transforming leadership roles at Laney and in Peralta, in- Basic Skills grant. These will change the cluding president of Laney’s Faculty Senate ways BCC students learn English, ESL and and vice president of the District Academic math. “I’m enjoying my experience; BCC Senate. has excellent administrators, faculty, staff “I’d learned so much during my and students; it is a pleasure to work with time at Laney, and I believed if I could use them.” that knowledge to help others, I should do

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