S Technology Professionals, the College Applied For, and Was Awarded, the First of Two U.S

Citrus Science -Technology -EngineeringMathematics ALUMNI •ATHLETICS • CAMPUS • FACULTY & STAFF • FOUNDATION •STUDENTS

Spring 2014 STEM CollegeNewsMagazine SUPERINTENDENT/PRESIDENT’S Welcome SPRING 2014

In 2008, Citrus College launched a program that would greatly CollegeNewsMagazine enhance its status as a leader among the nation’s community colleges. Challenged by the need to develop the next generation of science and Citrus technology professionals, the college applied for, and was awarded, the first of two U.S. Department of Education grants. This took an STAFF already solid academic program to a new level, while opening new Executive Editor: Linda Welz doors of educational opportunities for thousands of students in the Editor: Paula Green areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Now in its sixth year, the Citrus College STEM Program has achieved Contributors: Stacy Armstrong, Marilyn Grinsdale, extraordinary outcomes. The number of STEM associate degrees con- Andrew Wheeler ferred at Citrus College increased 96 percent over a four-year period, Photographer: Lisa Amezcua and students who transferred to four-year colleges and universities as Production Coordinators: Angie Delgado, Joe Nieblas STEM majors increased 23 percent. In addition, the number of His- panic STEM student transfers increased from 22 percent to 33 percent CITRUS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT during a three-year period—important evidence of the STEM Program’s BOARD OF TRUSTEES success in its efforts to reach underrepresented students. The faculty and staff who were committed to building a first-class President | Dr. Patricia A. Rasmussen STEM program are responsible for the STEM students’ outstanding Vice President | Mrs. Joanne Montgomery achievements. In addition to developing a successful academic pro- Clerk/Secretary| Dr. Barbara R. Dickerson gram, these dedicated educators were at the forefront of a strong de- Member | Dr. Edward C. Ortell mand. In 2012, four years after the STEM Program was established at Member | Mrs. Susan M. Keith Citrus College, the White House published “Engage to Excel,” a report Student Member | Ms. Mariana Vega from the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology that called for “one million additional college graduates with degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.” Citrus College Superintendent/President | Dr. Geraldine M. Perri was well on the way to contributing to this essential need. The significance of the Citrus College STEM Program is revealed through our students themselves. In this issue of Citrus College News Magazine, Alejandra Garcia, Stacy Guzman, Crystal Cortez, Nico Courts, Kesean Diamond, and Waymon Ho share heartfelt accounts of their experiences as STEM Program students that reflect their love for their disciplines and plans for successful careers. As always, I am grateful for the alumni, donors, and friends who continue to support our institution. You are essential to our success as a College of Completion.

Sincerely,

A Citrus College student participates in a physiology lab. Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D. Superintendent/President The Citrus College News Magazine is an official publication of Citrus College. Your comments and suggestions are welcome. Please e-mail correspondence to [email protected]. Citrus College Foundation, 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora, CA 91741-1899

If you would like to sponsor this magazine or make a donation to Citrus College, contact the Citrus College

SPRING 2014 Foundation at (626) 914-8825.

2 CITRUS COLLEGE NEWS MAGAZINE 3

Philanthropy Philanthropy Philanthropy Students to STEM Careers Appointments and Honors Countdown to the Celebration! Teaching Completion Institute for Year Year Year Success Success and mathematicianstechnologists, engineers, Champion Summer Research Experience Introduces Experience Introduces Summer Research Instructors Share Enthusiasm for STEM Enthusiasm for Instructors Share Innovative Promote Groups Inquiry Faculty Introduces Breakfast Circle President’s a Successful Celebrates Reception Winter Donors Engage in Active Employee Alumni News Alumni Achiever Alumni Achiever Alumni Achiever News Employees Establish New Scholarships Ho and Wayman Diamond Kesean Open House planned for October 11, 2014 Jesus GutierrezJesus GutierrezJesus Gutierrez and Christine and Christine and Christine Goedhart Goedhart Goedhart Faculty development opportunities First-time event brings community leaders together 2013 Reception Winter STEM to Achieve Enables Students Preparing the next generation of scientists, Students’ Lives Transforms STEM Program Crystal Cortez and Nico Courts Charles and Sharon Pickering Estep, Ruth Lynn My Citrus Story: Dongning Zhang Choices of a Science and Sports: The Audrianna Arceneaux Historical Donation,Aspen Prize eligibility, Students 10 Centennial 17 & Staff Faculty 7 Foundation 14 4 Alumni 8 Athletics 16 Campus News 18 Contents Feature 7 14 15 12 13 8 7 4 10

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12 17 CITRUS COLLEGE FEATURED PROGRAM STEM Enables Students to Achieve Success by Stacy Armstrong

Alejandra Garcia loves animals. It is an affinity that serves as the foundation for her dream of becoming a veterinarian. However, it seemed unlikely that this dream would ever become reality. After all, to be a veterinarian she would need to complete college- something nobody in her family had ever done. But, Alejandra’s determination helped her become the first person in her family to graduate from high school. It also led her to Future veterinarian Alejandra Garcia spent a Citrus College. summer doing research “My goal is to go as far as I can,” the 20- at Cal Poly Pomona, year-old El Monte resident said. “I believe thanks to the opportu- that education is extremely important, and I nities provided by the hope to one day earn a Ph.D.” Citrus College STEM Program. To help reach this goal, Alejandra became part of the Citrus College STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math- Background ematics) Program. “STEM classes are not Over fifty years ago, the United States gained its stand- easy, but the program provides me with ing as a world leader in part due to its scientific and en- the resources I need to succeed,” the biol- gineering innovations. Today, a lack of skilled workers in ogy major said. “It motivates me to do my these same fields threatens this position. best and has transformed me into a more Recognizing the need to develop a new generation responsible student.” of science and technology professionals, Citrus College Alejandra’s story is not uncommon. applied for, and received, a $3.4 million grant from the Since its inception in 2008, the Citrus U.S. Department of Education in 2008. The purpose of this College STEM Program has placed hun- grant was to increase participation and ensure the success dreds of students on the path toward aca- of first-generation, low income, and underrepresented demic and professional success. By doing college students in STEM. so, the college is also helping to meet a “Science and mathematics have always been an impor- critical need. tant aspect of education at Citrus College, but the SPRING 2014

4 CITRUS COLLEGE FEATURED PROGRAM

2008 grant really enabled us to strengthen “Get Ready” our STEM offerings,” said Dr. Eric Rabitoy, The “Get Ready” aspect of RACE to STEM focuses on dean of natural and physical sciences and community outreach. Specifically, it seeks to provide lo- library services, and one of the early cham- cal middle and high school students with pre-collegiate pions of the STEM Program. “We needed the preparation in the areas of science and mathematics. funding to make the transition happen.” One way it accomplishes this is through the annual The grant funded “Citrus Connect,” a “Secrets of Science Summer Camp (S3C),” which involves project that allowed the college to develop hands-on science activities and laboratories designed to effective outreach programs to the com- promote student engagement. munity and local K-12 schools, promote early There is also the PAGE (Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and college readiness, and prepare students to Geometry Enrichment) Program, designed to enhance the meet STEM academic requirements. In ad- math skills of students who have completed sixth and dition, it provided expanded academic and seventh grade. And finally, STEM Day for Girls is an annual student support services at Citrus College collaboration with the American Association of University for STEM students. Women’s East Valley Branch that draws several hundred As part of the grant, Citrus College cre- eighth grade girls from the San Gabriel Valley region. ated the STEM Center, which features many The hope is that young students who participate in important, interactive resources. The grant these programs will eventually enroll in a college or also funded the Math Success Center, university as STEM majors. If these students choose to where students can receive informal enroll at Citrus College, they will have the opportunity to math tutoring on a drop-in basis. benefit from the second stage of the project. Thus began the foundation of a highly successful STEM Program. However, there “Get Set” was still much to be done. The college, The “Get Set” aspect of RACE to STEM provides aca- therefore, pursued additional funding, and in demic opportunities to current Citrus College students. It 2011 the U.S. Department of Education pre- involves innovative resources and a supportive commu- sented the institution with a second STEM nity of STEM-focused faculty, staff and students. grant. The five-year $4.2 million award is To maximize these opportunities, students are encour- being used to build upon and strengthen aged to join the STEM Academy. Members of the STEM Citrus College’s programs in the STEM Academy receive regular newsletters and additional e-mail fields through a coordinated effort known announcements designed specifically for their interests. as “RACE (Rise Above Challenges Exponen- One of the most popular opportunities available for tially) to STEM.” STEM students is Supplemental Instruction (SI), an educa- In order to meet the goals of increasing tional support model in which peers facilitate study ses- the number of underrepresented students sions for students in historically difficult courses. attaining STEM degrees and increasing “At Citrus College, we prioritize SI for courses that have STEM transfer rates, the project has been suffered from high failure rates,” said Dr. Barbara Juncosa, separated into three stages: “Get Ready,” a Citrus College faculty member. “The goal is for students CITRUS COLLEGE NEWS MAGAZINE “Get Set,” and “Go.” to work through challenging concepts and acquire new study skills in an informal environment.”

The STEM Program offers a variety of academic support services to students enrolled in science, technology, engineering and mathematics classes.

5 6 SPRING 2014 RACE to STEM project. to STEM RACE ofthe they moveontothenextstage obstacles, come alloftheiracademic counseling throughouttheirjourney. alsoreceive specializedSTEM dents Inaddition,stu- their experiences. fieldsshare STEM the in sionals through workshops- whereprofes to exploretheir academic options forstudents opportunities provides mathematics instructor. said Victoria Dominguez, Citrus College to each other, and to their professors,” astrongconnection college students sense of belonging, giving community both subjects. group projectoverlapping a assign and of thelinkedclasses interact regularly The instructors asacohort. classes these thattake students of group a and classes of linking the volves in community learning peers. A also dependontheinteractionof nator. coordi- faculty memberandSIGMA said Lucia Riderer, a Citrus College to succeed in their academic goals,” impact mentored students’ desire significantly mechanism thatcan onaone-on-onebasis. students experienced encouragement toless and providing information,support moreexperiencedstudents involves Achievement). This specialresource and InspiretoGainMotivation (Support isSIGMA peer support than thosewhodonot. to receiveonelettergradehigher havebeenfound Instruction sessions whoattendSupplemental Students When students successfully over When successfully students project toSTEM The RACE a foster communities “Learning Learning Communities STEM “Peer mentoringisasupport Another programthatutilizes isundeniable. ofSI The success - - “Go” hope is that one day these same students willchangetheworld. students same hope isthatonedaythese onadailybasis.The ofstudents thelives itaffords–changes ties a career.” as itshowedmethatIwouldliketo conductresearch importantly, aspectofscience.More thetheoretical me understand helped major. providedmewithahands-onexperienceand “Research Guzman,aCitrus Collegebiology 22-year-old Stacy class,” said grams findthemtobetransformative. K-8schools. tolocal monthly outreachactivities international competitions,aswellconducts and national giate intercolle in competes and project research a STEM-based Eachteamworksindependentlyon comprise RISE. that teams student three the are Owls CAPE and Owls, Rocket Owls,Space inScienceandEngineering)Program. The (Research the RISE see pages10and11ofthismagazine.) period ofsixtoeightweeks.(ForadditionalinformationaboutSRE, withworkingfull-timefora pairedwithmentors,andtasked sites, orotherresearch are placedincutting-edgeuniversitylaboratories students summer, morethan35STEM Every that. just do to them learned, and allows Experience(SRE) the SummerResearch STEM Program information table located in the STEM Center. intheSTEM located Program informationtable STEM Guzman,withCitrusCollegealumnusAdrianIniguez,volunteersatthe Stacy - Program –andthe manyopportuni The CitrusCollegeSTEM a taking from learn can student a much so only is “There The students who participate in the STEM research pro research STEM the in participate who students The toworkthrough alsoputtheireducation can students STEM The “Go” stage encourages students to utilize what they have - - CITRUS COLLEGE NEWS MAGAZINE 7 ------Faculty Inquiry InquiryFaculty Faculty Groups PromoteGroups Promote The Citrus College STEM College STEM Citrus Citrus The The Program Program Innovative Teaching Teaching Innovative Innovative FIGsFIGs allow STEM allow STEM such as such as faculty, faculty, mathematics instructor Mohammed Trad, mathematics instructor Mohammed Trad, to furtherto further enhance student learning. enhance student learning. ideas on improving student learning ideas on improving student learningideas on improving student learning component, component, and engagement. This and engagement. This Inquiry Groups Inquiry Groups known as Faculty known as Faculty (FIGs),(FIGs), is comprised of STEM is comprised of STEMinstrucinstruc tors who meet regularly to comparetors who meet regularly to compare teaching methods, exchange ideas, teaching methods, exchange ideas, and gain more exposure to the acaand gain more exposure to the aca demic literature in their subject areas.demic literature in their subject areas. FIGsFIGs allow these allow these instructors to be instructors to be come more knowledgeable and better come more knowledgeable and better equipped to motivate and educateequipped to motivate and educate their students,their students, which results which results in more in more successfulsuccessful student outcomes. student outcomes. offers a faculty development compooffers a faculty development compo nent that allows instructors to explorenent that allows instructors to explore ------This is a goal Gutierrez has This Gutierrez’ personal quest for ex Although JesusGutierrez has & tion, divorcing the student from their misconceptions, building a coalition of learners that freely work with one another outside of class, and lastly, maximizing participation.” cellence is demonstrated in the class goal is to create an optimal room. “My learning environment that recognizes the many factors that go into learning math: maintaining student motiva general mathematics from California Angeles. Los State University, worked towards since joining Citrus col A community College in 2007. lege graduate, he has an associate degree from Rio Hondo College, a Bachelor of Science degree in applied mathematics with a minor in statistics from UCLA, a master’s degree in and ematics instructor says his teaching method is a work in progress. “I con stantly areas of improve reflect on ment,” he said. “I strive to enhance my lectures and group activitiesto engage the learner.” Jesus Gutierrez been lauded for being an excellent the Citrus College math educator, - - - -

Dr. Goedhart’s passion for Dr. Since 2012, Dr. GoedhartSince 2012, has Dr. Dr. Christine Goedhart believesDr.

STEM Instructors for Enthusiasm Share

from California State University, from California State University, Fullerton, and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Irvine. academic roots. She also holds an associate degree from Fullerton College, a Bachelor of Science degree educating community college students can own be attributed to her that we face as a society and to make more informed and educated deci sions.” the material, but also gain the ability to use scientific thinking and analysis to address the issues and challenges Citrus College students. goal “My is a learning environment where my students not only see the relevance of teach within the sciences.” been sharing this enthusiasm with know, there is always new informa tion and examples to include in my courses, which makes to it exciting standaround us is increas the world we she said. “As ing exponentially,” push the boundaries of what we instructor. “Currently, technology and technology “Currently, instructor. scientific discoveries are progressing so rapidly that our ability to under Dr. Christine Goedhart Dr. this is a great time to be a biology Faculty Staff Faculty CITRUS COLLEGE OWLS’ NEST

8 SPRING 2014 research.” inexcitingpaleontology andparticipate the UnitedStates meetingsthroughout been abletoattendprofessional UC Riverside,” she said. “Since enrolling Ihave atFullerton, which ledmetochangemyoriginalplan of transferring atCSUF, me to placed staff and faculty STEM “The search. for geology.” leader “They evenprovidedmewithajobastutorandSI tionand a(SI), comfortable place to study,” Cortez recalls. Instruc totutoring,Supplemental where Ihadaccess Center, totheSTEM success “I owealotofmyacademic program. wasthecollege’sSTEM One suchopportunity shesaid. availableatCitrus forstudents,” opportunities demic journey. “Ihadheardgreatthingsaboutthemany adventure neverleft,andIdecidedtogobackschool.” “However,the corporateworld,”shesaid. mypassionfor for paleontologyacareer. So,afterhighschool,Ientered “At first,Ithoughtcouldnevermakemylove plan. tez’ more confident person.Overall,Ihave grownasastu believeinmehelped mebecomea College professors Citrus “Having thewonderful College. Citrus without possible been have wouldn’t success her believes Cortez goals, her Mai achieving University. to way her on Well Thailand, where she will be conducting research at Chiang hope to one day teach at the university level,” shesays. eventually earningaPh.D.invertebrate paleontology. “I Sheplanson University,California State (CSUF). Fullerton pursuing aBachelorofSciencedegreeingeologyfrom for many has become a prospective forCortez. career remembers. But,whatoftenproves to be a passing fancy atagefour,”pronounce Pachycephalosaurus to she how me taught “He intheprehistoriccreatures. her interest thatitwasherolderbrotherwhoinfluenced admits Cortez Crystal age.Uplandresident when theyreachpreschool Crystal Cortez,Classof2012 Students’ Lives STEM ProgramTransforms Next on Cortez’ agenda is a summer 2014 tripto agendaisasummer2014 Next onCortez’ toconductre alsoreceived theopportunity Cortez madeCitrusCollegethefirststoponheraca Cortez Pursuing herchildhooddreamwasn’talwaysCor A recent graduate of Citrus College, Cortez is currently Many childrendevelopafascinationwithdinosaurs - - - - - Merced, but I was not mentally or emotion or mentally Merced, but Iwasnot attheUniversity ofCalifornia, lege career “Iactuallybeganmy col some challenges. and insteadbeginembracing it.” tostopconvince morestudents fearing math lift the veil on its beauty. I hope to beable mere tooltoachievetheirends. My goal is to “Many peopleseemathasa ing,” hesaid. has longbeenconsideredcoldandcalculat life istobringandcolorintoanareathat mathematics exciting.“My mainpurposein Nico Courts,Classof2013 make sureit’sreal,”sheadds. sible.” in my dream than I ever thought pos further Inevergaveupandhavegotten because story “IamaCitrussuccess dent,” shesaid. Courts’ educational journey presented journey presented educational Courts’ tomake wants Nicholas “Nico”Courts “I stillpinchmyselfeverymorningto now astudentatFullerton. Sheis Fullerton. Citrus CollegeandCalState collaborationbetween intheSTEM participated As a Citrus College student, Crystal Cortez Cortez As aCitrusCollegestudent,Crystal - - - - CITRUS COLLEGE NEWS MAGAZINE 9 - - - - Nico Courts – I believe that Citrusthat I believe students done Collegehas taking by service great a all-encompassingan such to education. approach In the future, he hopes to become an educator. “I plan on leveraging my acaeducator. demic performance research and experi pro ence to earn a position in a Ph.D. gram,” Courts said. “From there, I would like to get a position in academia where I can of young minds help a new generation understand the intricacies and appreciate of mathematics.” universities country and provide around the undergraduates an opportunity with to per form research chosen field,” Courts in their said. have the opportunity “I am excited to to explore what mathematics research looks like.” - - - - - Citrus College alumnas Nico Courts, pictured of Marianne Smith, received a Key with Dr. for his achievement in mathemat Knowledge ics. He currently attends USC. Where CourtsWhere is today is the University of Southern He quickly began taking advantage many oppor of the “After leaving college and“After spending years trying to research experiences. “These programs are hosted in California (USC). He is attending with a full scholarship and and scholarship full a with attending California (USC). is He He is also applying for summer mathematics. in majoring twine work and school. I also appreciated the fact that the college had so many different facets to explore.” dora resident said. first, “At Citrus was merely a choice of convenience. It had always been a presence in my life and its proximity allowed me to minimize my commute and inter find my way, I finally turned to Citrus College,” the Glen the College,” turned to Citrus I finally find my way, said. “I performed very poorly in my classes and dropped to the lowest point of my life in terms of happiness and satis faction.” ally prepared to take control of my own education,” Courts convinced that Citrus was the only college that could have led me to where I am today.” tunities provided by the STEM Program. “I believe that Citrus Citrus that believe “I STEM Program. the by tunities provided College has done students a great service by taking such approach to education,” he said. “I am all-encompassing an STEM Program Transforms Program STEM Lives Students’ OWLS’ NEST OWLS’ COLLEGE CITRUS

10 SPRING 2014 Summer Research Experience Introduces Students to STEM Careers Summer ResearchExperienceIntroducesStudentstoSTEM Students wellness forwellness others. medicine andhelpthepursuit of research canplay apartin at CalPoly, Pomona. Isaw how opportunity toconductresearch thus far hasbeenhaving the my timeatCitrusCollege The greatest highlightof Kesean Diamond, Citrus College STEM student Kesean Diamond,CitrusCollege STEM – Kesean Diamond macrophages engulfed up to 3 to 4 times morethan engulfedupto34times macrophages “Accordingsaid. AmBihelped.Infact,the toourresults, workmoreefficiently,”would helpthemacrophages he tems orpeoplewholiveinharshenvironments. sufferingfromweakenedimmunesys to helppatients drug knownasAmBisome,orAmBiforshort.” cellsinteractwitha “Istudiedhowthese them,” hesaid. anddisposingof sible forengulfingforeignobjects that arelinkedtotheimmunesystem.They arerespon tions. condi andimmune-suppressed with cancer, HIV/AIDS, diagnosed trying toimprovethetreatmentofpatients The 23-year-oldLa Verne spenteightweeks resident geology/earth science,physics,mathematics, andmore. geology/earth areas ofbiochemistry, botany, chemistry, engineering, for others.” inmedicineandhelpthepursuitofwellness play apart can atCalPoly,” howresearch research “Isaw hesaid. toconduct thus farhasbeenhavingtheopportunity pating inthelifeofauniversity. publicspeaking,andpartici reading scientificarticles; andfieldwork;identifying conducting labresearch amongotherthings, weeks. Their involvementincludes, withworkingfull-timeforanaverageofeight tasked pairedwithamentor, sites, and orotherresearch tories areplacedincutting-edgeuniversitylabora ticipants Par Experience(SRE). oftheSummerResearch as part gain firsthandexperienceinscientificinvestigation to Program hadthe opportunity Citrus CollegeSTEM rare forcommunitycollegestudents. suchasthisoneare two-year college,andopportunities andappliedmathematicsmajorata sciences biological the AmBisomestudywasexceptional.Afterall,heisa in Diamond’sparticipation year universityenvironments, what theydidontheirown.” nic University, Pomona (Cal Poly). “It was my job to research thedrugandseeifit “It wasmyjobtoresearch According toDiamond,AmBiisafungaldrugused cellsinthebody “I wasworkingwithmacrophages, Diamondhadaneventfulsummer. Kesean In 2013, Other research opportunities wereavailableinthe opportunities Other research highlightofmytimeatCitrusCollege “The greatest Polytech Diamond spenthistimeatCaliforniaState Last year, fromthe Diamondand35otherstudents iscommoninfour- While ground-breakingresearch ------CITRUS COLLEGE NEWS MAGAZINE 11 - - - “It was one of the most wonder Despite the program’s demands, participants of our former “All Ho, this definitely Waymon For Summer Research“My Experi through complex situations by thinking thinking by through complex situations outside of the box.” ence really motivated me to work hard to make a difference, both academically It and professionally. transformed my educational path,” he said. “I now realize the massive tasks that are required of you in a research field. It helped me learn to manage my time efficiently and work ful opportunities I could have had had have could I ful opportunities during my time at Citrus College,” he added. Smith says that it is very popular. have indicated that, given the op they would participateportunity, in the Summer Research Experience again,” Smith said. proves true. - - Wayman Ho, Citrus College STEMStudent Wayman Once they are accepted into the At the conclusion of their SRE, stu To become part of this competi To letters of recommendation from faculty members are among the items required as part of the application packet. tive program, participants must be members of the Citrus College STEM planning to transfer in a Academy, STEM and working towards major, finishing their first bachelor’s degree. must have also completed a They minimum of two STEM classes. A personal statement and two then be presented at one or more research symposia. dents are required to create a poster dents summarizing their research that will program, students agree to make a full-time commitment and, in turn, they earn up to $5,000 for their eight-week, full-time commitment. university libraries, and grow their skills in a myriad of ways.” attend presentations, work in the - - - - “Our students are consistently Dr. Marianne Smith, project Dr. “The goal was to build a cost ef “The Ho’s research involved learning “I worked under Dr. Christopher “I worked under Dr. La Puente resident Waymon Ho resident Puente Waymon La obstacles.” me to begin socializing with people who had similar interests. Together, we worked as a team to overcome of the program gave me the chance of the program gave me the chance to deal with real life applications in a STEM-related field. It also led security needs of the home or small security needs of the home or small business, without omitting advanced features,” he explained. “Being part ficient and refined video surveillance ficient and refined video surveillance system geared towards the personal developed a computer software program capable of managing and controlling those cameras. how to apply motion detection to cameras, the majority of which were web-based. He also created and search experiences and the learning that comes from those experiences, as well as from the opportunity to with university faculty mentors,” she said. “Students indicate that they benefit from both the actual re research and the opportunities they have to work alongside other gradu ate and undergraduate students and pants. enthusiastic about their summer director for Citrus College’s RACE to STEM,says experiencesHo’s that are similiar to those of all SRE partici alternative for the home or small businesses.” systems, which are mostly catered toward businesses. I was responsible for helping to develop a smaller scale Ryu at California State University, StateRyu at California University, Fullerton,” said. the 20-year-old “My research involved video surveillance took advantage of an opportunity in science. the discipline of computer Summer Research Experience Introduces Students to STEM Students Introduces Experience Research Summer Careers CITRUS COLLEGE OWLS NEST

12 SPRING 2014 enjoy living in Palm Desert, traveling,andraisingdachshunds. enjoy livinginPalm Desert, Dentistry atUniversityofSouthernCalifornia. positionswiththeHermanOstrowSchoolof andstudent facilitator research inpublicandprivateschools.Sharonalsoheldpart-time Dominguez Hillsandtaught University,in English.Sheearnedamaster’sdegreebiology fromCaliforniaState University,California State Los whereshemajoredinbiologyandminored Angeles, Hacienda La Puente UnifiedSchoolDistrictfor22years. inthe He workedfor26yearsasacheckerthreesupermarketchainsandtaught education. administrationandamaster’sdegreeinelementary degree inbusiness afterCitrusCollege. lives Alumni CoupleEnjoys Retirement, Travel in spected forherexpertise years.Sheisknownandre 34 ate. where sheearnedaJurisDoctor attended Whittier Law School, a bachelor’sdegreeandthen Poly Pomona, whereshereceived graduation. ShetransferredtoCal continued to take classes after ing herhighschoolyearsand atCitrusCollegedur classes School, Esteptooksummerschool tion dinnerlastfall. annualinstalla helm atSMBA’s Family Law Section,tookthe also chairoftheassociation’s The familylawattorney, whois BarAssociation(SMBA). Monica oftheSanta elected president Alumna Leads Local BarAssociation Chapter Alumni News continue to expandanddevelop AlumniNews. Continuetokeep in touch!Please Thank you for providing your updates andphotos,which areofgreatvalueaswe Thank you for providingyourupdates The Pickerings are the parents ofadaughter,The theynow Pickeringsaretheparents Deanna.Asretirees, Sharon, whoattendedCitrusCollegeintheearly 1970s, graduatedfrom graduated fromCalPoly Pomona classof1956, withabachelor’s Charles, Pickering recentlyprovidedanupdateontheir andSharon(Stewart) Charles Estep haspracticedlawfor Ruth Lynn Estephasbeen A graduate of Glendora High A graduateofGlendoraHigh send your updates to [email protected] or contact usat626-914-8825. [email protected] orcontact send your updates - - - - football games andJuly4th football games likecarnivals, community events there weresomanywonderful academics, with outstanding “Alongond home,”sherecalls. college. “Citruswaslikeasec ofthe holds fondmemories extremely personablenature.” and needs, andforhercaring toaccommodateherclients’ ness integrity,high standards, willing forher andclients colleagues “well-known amongher as Sheisdescribed Monica. lawfirminSanta Ribakoff intheEnenstein& partner counsel. Estepiscurrentlya Countyoftenseekher Angeles throughoutLostion, andjudges in highconflictcustodylitiga childreninvolved representing The CitrusCollegealumna Attention Alumni! - - - wonderful productions.”wonderful held intheauditoriumalwayshad programs fireworks. Also,thearts and CitrusCollegeAlumna Ruth Lynn Estep,Attorney CITRUS COLLEGE NEWS MAGAZINE 13 - - - - - Zhang, who holds memberships Update: As a student at the a a to ResearchGate, to ResearchGate, According According Citrus College changed me After two wonderful years at microscopy scanning, and several scanning, and several microscopy languages computer programming of expertise. as her areas in the American Medical Associa tion and the American Physician Scientists Association, will receive in 2016. her medical degree they wouldn’t recognize me; their they wouldn’t recognize me; their memories are of a quiet girl who never raised her hand in class. and profoundly and thoroughly, I will always remember the kind people who stepped up and helped me. of Pittsburg School of University Medicine, Dongning Zhang has her math successfully leveraged ematics and science abilities into In addition to her medical research. studies, the Citrus College alumna articles and several has co-authored on top at conferences presented ics such as cellular and molecular engineering. social media science and research of inter Zhang’s areas website, est include bioengineering, applied neu mathematics, and cognitive She also cites electron roscience. tutor other students in chemistry, tutor other students in chemistry, I even mathematics. and biology, became for English 101. a tutor I became a Science, Eventually, and Engineering Technology, Mathematics (STEM) Program Supplemental Instruction leader for biology. Citrus College, I transferred to the University of California, Los Angeles to complete my bachelor’s degree in mathematics/applied high my if that is irony The science. school friends could see me now - - - - - With the encouragement With Entering Citrus College proved From one culture to another, one culture to another, From thought, I prospered. I began to noticed thatnoticed that therethere werewere otherother students who had overcome their I realized I could as well. timidity, and and help of professors,staff, friends, I simply kept trying—and I didn’t allowmy in hide myself to I became time, In zone. comfort confident and more outspoken. After realizing that my communi cation skills were not as bad as I where everyone appeared confi dent and at ease. to be a challenge on many fronts. I grasped the concepts While quickly, my ability to explain the process of solving chemistry prob lems lagged. I suppose I would have blamed my problems on the fact that English was my second language, but my real dilemma was rooted in shyness. I When many people like me in high school school many people like me in high the quiet; were who China in Chinese culture emphasizes my However, modesty and humility. inclination to be withdrawn was more than cultural; I was genuinely I was told after graduat When shy. ing from high school that I would have an opportunity to study in California, I was anxious, wonder ing if I could succeed in a place there are many differences—some differences—some many are there and others more obvious Inuanced. When came to the United States, was to speak up viewed by some as a cultural be sure, there were difference. To My Citrus Story: My Citrus Story: Dongning Zhang -- - - Dongning Zhang

One such student is Dongning In 2008, Citrus College intro

medical student at the University of Pittsburg. Program and transferred to UCLA, where she received a B.A. in math ematics in 2011. She is currently a Zhang. Zhang attended the college during the early days of the STEM

Success STEM Student Experiences Growth, Student ExperiencesSTEM Growth, Alumni Achiever Alumni describing the impact Citrus College College Citrus impact the describing made on their lives. mer students who represent several students mer decades of the college’s 98-year wrote personal narratives wrote personal narratives history, history, Under the leadership of Dr. Samuel Under the leadership of Dr. dean of Lee, language arts and enrollmentenrollmentenrollment management, these formanagement, these formanagement, these for that provides accounts of alumni experiences during the time they spent as students at the college. duced My Citrus Story, an initiative My Citrus Story, duced OWLS NEST OWLS CITRUS COLLEGE Foundation President’s Circle Breakfast Introduces Institute for Completion

The Citrus College Foundation began the year by hosting the President’s Circle Breakfast, a first- time event that allowed current and prospective supporters the opportunity to meet with college officials and to learn about plans for the College of Completion initiative. Local business and civic leaders met with Superintendent/President Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D., members of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees and the Citrus College Foundation Board. Dr. Perri delivered a presentation that President’s Circle Breakfast attendees received information about the college’s summarized the state of higher edu- accomplishments and goals. cation in the United States, and em- phasized the College of Completion Dr. Perri also shared the college’s vision for the Institute for initiative, Citrus College’s response Completion. The Institute will provide groundbreaking innova- to President Barack Obama’s 2010 tion and research that will enhance the development and imple- challenge to increase the number of mentation of programs to increase the number of Citrus College American college graduates by the students who earn associate degrees, receive career/technical year 2020. certificates, or transfer to four-year colleges and universities.

Winter Reception Celebrates a Successful Year

Nearly 100 Citrus College officials, donors, supporters and friends gathered for the Foundation’s Winter Reception. The annual event, which included a special performance by the Citrus Singers and attendance at the college’s popular “Christmas Is. . .” musical, provided an enjoy- able end to a successful year that established the President’s Circle and increased support for the College of Completion initiative. Superintendent/President Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D. (center) enjoys the 2013 Winter “The Winter Reception is always Reception with Associated Students of Citrus College officers (left to right) Alejan- a great opportunity to showcase dra Morales, vice president; Tyler Hernandez, president; Farihah Chowdhury, student the college’s stellar Performing Arts trustee-elect; and Daren Nguyen, senator. Program,” said Chris Garcia, director of the foundation. “We are confident Citrus College’s programs and services and the work of the SPRING 2014 our guests will spread the word about Foundation throughout their communities.”

14 CITRUS COLLEGE

Employee Donors Engage in Active Philanthropy Entrepreneur Eli Broad once defined philanthropy, as “being engaged, not only with your resources but (in) getting people and yourself really involved and doing things that haven’t been done before.” A group of Citrus College Foundation donors personify Broad’s definition. In fall 2013, several college faculty and staff members established scholarships through a Citrus College Foundation employee giving campaign. These new scholarships will be awarded to Citrus College students in August 2014. The employee donation campaign included matching funds from the Citrus College Foundation that made it possible for the EOP&S/CARE staff to create the EOP&S/CARE Perseverance and Success Scholarship, a longtime goal of the department. “When we learned about the matching funds from the Foundation, we thought this was a good time to establish a scholarship for our students,” says Sara Gonzales-Tapia, EOP&S/CARE and CalWORKs director. The EOP&S/CARE Perseverance and Success Scholarship is open to both continuing and transferring Director of Financial Aid Carol Thomas has es- students. It will be awarded in August to an EOP&S/CARE student tablished a scholarship in memory of her parents Bobbie and Leon Thompson, pictured here in who has a 3.0 GPA or higher. 1959. Scholarships established by Financial Aid Director Carol Thomas and the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility for Kids (CalWORKs) staff honor the memory of family members and friends. Thomas’ parents, Leon and Bobbie Thompson, faced several health issues during their lifetimes, including cancer. Yet, they did not allow these challenges to prevent them from being inspi- rational role models and living their lives to the fullest. “They were selfless and giving individuals who always helped others who were in need,” Thomas recalls. “In spite of their illnesses, they remained positive.” The Leon and Bobbie Thompson Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a continuing student who has a 2.0 minimum GPA and is pursuing a course of study in the sciences or health occupations. The CalWORKs staff chose to donate a scholarship in memory of a well-respected colleague, Mary Rome. Rome, an administra- CITRUS COLLEGE NEWS MAGAZINE tive clerk for the CalWORKs Program, passed away in 2011 after a three-month battle with cancer. The loss inspired her colleagues and friends to establish the CalWORKs Mary Rome Memorial The EOP&S/CARE and CalWORKs staff founded two scholarships: the EOP&S/CARE Persever- Scholarship. ance and Success Scholarship and the CalWORKs “Mary was known and loved by so many at Citrus,” Gonzales- Mary Rome Memorial Scholarship. Tapia recalls. “Not only was she a student here, she also worked in several departments on campus.” The CalWORKs Mary Rome Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a CalWORKs student with a 3.0 GPA or higher who will continue their education at Citrus College or transfer to a four-year institution. The scholarship reflects the nature of the woman who inspired it. “Mary valued the education she received at Citrus College and understood how important education was in her own life,” Gonzales-Tapia said. “It is only fitting that her legacy will live on through this scholarship.” 15 comprised of alumni, faculty and staff, are planning several events and programs that will highlight the college’s legacy andaccomplishments. andprogramsthatwillhighlightthecollege’slegacy comprised ofalumni,facultyandstaff, areplanningseveralevents FIGHTING OWLS These activities willalso activities These provide opportunities for the college Committee, Centennial community the festivities, of year a for soon celebrate will 100preparation years excellence. In of academic College Citrus

16 SPRING 2014 home after a game, but it’s worth thegreat home aftera game,butit’sworth doing lastminute homeworkonthe busride sincetransferringto petition routines major changes in herstudy, practiceandcom in 13oftheir21contests. started play soccerfortheLeopards. Last fall,she tomajorinbiologyand where shecontinues attends theUniversityofLa Verne (La Verne) aminimum 3.0GPA. Shecurrently maintains time ScholarBaller™,astudent-athletewho major. while balancingherverydemandingbiology all their first-everplayoffappearancein2012, 11-6 recordoverthosetwoseasons,including andhelpedleadtheOwlstoa24- success soccer teams.Shecontributedtotheteam’s women’s and2012 2011 highly successful she majoredinbiologyandplayedonthe attended CitrusCollegefortwoyears,where athletics.Arceneaux other thanprofessional is pursuingamajorthatwillleadtocareer exampleofthestudent-athletewho perfect The ChoicesofaChampion Science andSports: Athletics throughout theirlives. year institution—allofwhichwillbenefitthem ortransfertoafour- certificate, technical complete anassociatedegree,earnacareer/ Mostwill intheirsport. come professionals willbe level, wherefewstudent-athletes could notbetrueratthecommunitycollege That“go fact pro”inareasotherthansports. will thatmoststudent-athletes audiences reminding public serviceannouncements of runsaseries occasionally tion (NCAA) have classes and league games, it’sallokay.” and leaguegames, have classes inwhichyou balanceone roughsemester can butifyou addtothepressure, mented. “Itcan a lotoftimemanagement,”Arceneauxcom La Verne. whenyou’re “There arestilltimes college student isdemanding,anditrequires Arceneaux believes she has not made any At CitrusCollege,Arceneauxwasatwo- “Being bothanathleteandafull-time Former OwlAudriannaArceneauxisa The NationalCollegiateAthleticAssocia - - - - prepared meforLa Verne.” teachers weresolidandtheyhadacurriculum thatfully “The a reallygreatfoundationforme,”Arceneauxrecalls. always heldmyinterest.” sciencewasthesubjectthat I pickedbiologybecause “Ultimately,Citrus gavemethatchoice,”Arceneauxsaid. there, andIwantedsometimebeforemakingadecision. helped herexamineandchoosepath. joring in biology wasnotalwaysanoption.CitrusCollege sure she wanted to play sports at the college level, and ma toplayacollegiatesport.”opportunity effectiveness of bothprograms. effectiveness achievement. AudriannaArceneauxisanexample ofthe academic commitment tostudent-athletes’ Department’s its STEM Program andisalsoknownfortheAthletics STEM its sport while tackling adifficultmajor.” whiletackling sport would definitelyrecommend ittoanyonewishingplaya professors and coaches. Citrusisaqualityinstitution,andI and coaches. professors team. at theUniversityofLa Verne wheresheisamemberofthewomen’ssoccer Audrianna Arceneaux,formerFightingOwl,iscurrentlymajoringinbiology “My experiencewastrulyexceptional.Ihadgreat for reputation Citrus Collegehasalongstanding Citrus Collegeprovedtobeagoodchoice.“Citruslaid out opportunities “I knewthereweremanycareer Program studentwasnotalways The formerSTEM By Andrew Wheeler and Paula Green - FIGHTING OWLS SPECIAL EVENTS Centennial Science and Sports: Countdown to the Celebration! Citrus College will soon celebrate Celebration, will take place Saturday, The Choices of a Champion 100 years of academic excellence. In October 11, 2014. There will be preparation for a year of festivities, entertainment, food, historical and the Centennial Committee, comprised program displays, a car show, and of alumni, faculty and staff, are plan- more. ning several events and programs All Citrus College alumni are that will highlight the college’s legacy invited to enjoy the day on campus and accomplishments. and participate in the All-Class These activities will also provide Reunion. If you are a former Owl, Citrus Junior College, 1960 opportunities for the college com- please spread the word among your munity to connect with alumni, other fellow classmates. members of the community, and The fun-filled day ends with the friends near and far. Homecoming Game, which starts at The public Centennial kick off, 6:00 p.m. in the Stadium. the Open House and Homecoming

Louis E. Zellers Center for Innovation, 2008 Save the date! Saturday, October 11, 2014 Open House and Centennial Homecoming Celebration 100 YEARS CITRUS COLLEGE NEWS MAGAZINE

Centennial 1915 - 2015

Join the party! Volunteer to help staff an event! [email protected] or call 626-914-8825. 17 NEWSAROUND

18 SPRING 2014 Campus Watchara Phomicinda/ (Photoby andglobalscale,” has beenfeltonalocal son Mandela, whoselegacy tolearnfirst-hand aboutthelifeofNel auniqueopportunity offer ourstudents lished ascholarshiptobe awardedannually. whoalsoestab ofstudentservices, Citrus College’sformerinterim vicepresident wasdonatedby Dr. significance This JohnBaker, giftofhistorical as president. votethatelectedNelsonMandela firstfree,post-apartheid ing SouthAfrica’s Geraldine M.Perri, Ph.D.receivedaframedballotandnarrativecommemorat thisspring. and technologyevents science three teamsandwillcompeteinseveralofthenation’smostprestigious wheretheyhaveformed inScience&Engineering(RISE), new program,Research demand scienceandtechnologyfields. inthe areparticipating Twenty students inthehigh- careers andestablish degrees toearnbaccalaureate pare students componentthathelpstopre hasaddedaninterdisciplinaryresearch (STEM), for minority and low-income students. and success ings, and high levels of access anddegreecompletion,employmentearn areas: studentlearning,certificate infour two yearstoaninstitutiondemonstratingexceptionalstudentoutcomes Washington, CollegeExcellenceProgram awardstheAspenPrize D.C.Its every College Excellence. AspenPrize forCommunity County selectedtocompeteforthe$1million2015 inCalifornia,andtheonlycommunitycollegeLos community colleges Angeles Physics Eco-marathon)Owls,whoarephysicsand automotivetechnologystu (CitrusAutomotive The CAPE lights. recording soundsemittedfromthenorthern a weatherballoonandrecordingdeviceintotheatmospherewithintentof willtraveltoFairbanks, Alaska inAugusttosend recording technologystudents, inJune.TheGreen River, SpaceOwls,whosemembersarephysicsand Utah SoundingRocketAssociation)IntercollegiateRocketryCompetitionnear mental (Experi NASA’s StudentLaunch Project inSaltLake City, andintheESRA Utah Award Prestigious for Compete to Chosen College Citrus CollegeFoundation Receives Historical Document thon, anannualeventheldinHouston,Texas inlateApril. car intheShellEco-mara buildanddrivean energyefficient willdesign, dents, in early 2015. in early2015. information tobeusedselectthewinner, andfinalists finalists-with-distinction, of thecompetition.The Institutewillthenvisitthefinalistinstitutionsandcollect thatwilladvancetothenextround will narrowthefieldto10communitycolleges journeys.” ontheiracademic ourstudents diligently tosupport ofCitrusCollegewhoworkso nition istrulyavalidationofthefacultyandstaff GeraldineM.Perri, Ph.D.“This recog Superintendent/President said students,” amongeverysingleoneofour andfostersuccess vide ahigh-qualityeducation In May, the Rocket Owls, comprised of physics students, will participate in In May, willparticipate theRocketOwls,comprisedofphysicsstudents, The college’sscience,technology, engineering,andmathematicsprogram Competitions National Enter Students Program RISE strongcommitmenttopro “Citrus Collegeishonoredtoberecognizedforits organizationbasedin studies andpolicy The AspenInstituteisaneducational inthenation,oneofeight communitycolleges Citrus Collegeisoneof150 Dr. “Thanks Perri to toDr. said, gift,thecollegeisfortunate Baker’s wonderful Superintendent/President In recognitionofthecollege’sCentennialin2015, In fall 2014, a selection committee of educators and higher education experts experts andhighereducation aselectioncommitteeofeducators In fall2014, San GabrielValley Tribune ) ------CITRUS COLLEGE NEWS MAGAZINE 19 - - Mercado, an Azusa resident, is a Josielyn (Josie) Mercado, a first- assistant. graduate of Gladstone High School. She is actively involved in the college’s Foster/Kinship Care Education program as a student and she serves as a peer worker, Empower mentor for the Youth ment Strategies for Success Mercadoprogram. honor an also is student who plans to become a registered nurse and a physician’s California Youth Connection (CYC) Connection (CYC) California Youth to attend the organization’s annual Day at the Capitol conference. CYC provides opportunities for foster youth to develop leadership and self-advocacythe skills. During two-day event, Mercado attended communications and policywork shops, and met with legislators to advocate for sibling visitation rights. First-Year Student First-Year Foster for Advocates Youth year Citrus College student and foster youth, was selected by the - - - - “Ms. Dain is an accomplished Prior to joining the Citrus Prior Claudette Dain, a veteran college veteran a Dain, Claudette mize Citrus College’s standing as a leading institution of higher learn ing,“ commented Superintendent/ Ph.D. President Geraldine M. Perri, “She is an excellent choice for this critical position.” vices for Fullerton College and held management positions with the North Orange County Com munity College District. She also served as senior manager for the Lloyd & Vicenti, accounting firm was the where she Stutzman, LLP, lead auditor for Citrus College. administrator who demonstrates a depth of knowledge that will opti administrator and certified public accountant, is Citrus College’s new vice president of finance and administrative services. Dain was the vice College staff, president of administrative ser Vice President of Finance President Vice and Administrative Services Appointed - - - - The longtime educatorThe is the Dr. Dickerson was a member of Dickerson was a member Dr. Dr. Barbara R. Dickerson of Barbara R. Dickerson Dr. for the 24th State Senate District. an of Achievement in Education of the Year and the 2010 Woman nonprofit organization that helps at-risk Azusa students. She was YWCAhonored as the 2007 Wom executive director of Neighbor hood Homework House, a local experience at all levels of educa tion, including 25 years in higher education. Board of Education for eight years. She has more than 35 years of portions of Duarte. the Azusa Unified School District board’s clerk/secretary. She repre board’s clerk/secretary. Area 1, sents the college’s Trustee which is comprised of Azusa and Azusa is the newest of member the Citrus Community College and the District Board of Trustees New Trustee Joins New Trustee Citrus College Board NEWS AROUND NEWS NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID 1000 West Foothill Boulevard CITRUS COLLEGE Glendora, California 91741-1899 www.citruscollege.edu

First, Citrus College Next, University of La Verne Cynthia Rodriguez I enrolled at Citrus College because I wanted to be in an environment where I could meet new people. I stayed there because I loved it. The people were friendly and encouraging, and I had the pleasure of learning from amaz- ing instructors. I completed my general education requirements while taking classes that helped solidify my choice for my major. I also made the Dean’s List and the Presi- dent’s List. I believe I am a Citrus College success story because, although I was often unclear about my future, I received advice from counselors and faculty that helped me with my educational decisions. I plan to become a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and help people feel better about their lives. If I had the choice to go back in time and enroll some- where else, I would still choose Citrus College. Thanks to the wonderful people there, I am a better person.

Cynthia Rodriguez Class of 2013 Stay Connected to Citrus College visit www.citruscollege.edu/foundation