Harvest Festival is just around the corner!

On behalf of the Classified Staff Training and Development Committee:

Don’t forget that the annual Green River College Harvest Festival is just around the corner! See below for this year’s festival information:

Thursday, October 31

11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Cascade Hall, Student Affairs & Success Center

 

This event is open to all Green River College employees.  Come for the full time or drop in when you have a moment. 

 The Classified Staff Training & Development Committee is happy to provide dessert, coffee, and water service again this year.  Please bring a brown bag lunch or stop by the cafeteria on your way.

Before the event:

• Donate food to the Auburn Food Bank bins in your building
• Help your team decorate the collection bin to win a coffee break
• Carve, paint, or otherwise decorate a pumpkin to bring to the event

 

Come dressed to impress in one of these categories:

Best Large Team Costumes          Most Unique                Funniest

Best Small Team Costumes          Scariest

 

Ballots will be available on all tables for voting on costume winners, bin decorations, and pumpkins.  Prizes awarded!

New training dates are here

On behalf of Mark Brown, Learning and Development Manager

Our next round of mandatory training dates are set! The below training sessions will include nondiscrimination, child abuse/neglect reporting and ethics. These sessions are intended for all employees so, if you are a new employee or are unaware of your training completion status, please contact Mark Brown at mbrown@greenriver.edu.

TC-208, Tuesday, October 22, 3-5 pm

TC-206, Thursday, October 24, 9-11 am

TC-208, Tuesday, November 5, 2-4 pm

TC-208, Thursday, November 7, 9-11 am

IVC-101 Conference Room, Wednesday, November 20, 9-11 am

TC-206, Wednesday, December 4, 9-11 am

SH 220-31 Conference room, Thursday, December 5, 2-4 pm

https://greenriveredu.sharepoint.com/sites/GN-HumanResources/SitePages/2019-Fall-Quarter-HR-Training-Sessions.aspx

 

New Employee Spotlight – Megan Brech

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Megan Brech

I am the Program Coordinator at our Enumclaw center. For the past six years, I taught health and fitness in Washington public middle and high schools.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I would like to thank Christie Gilliland for suggesting that I check out Green River when I was talking to her about looking for a different career path over the summer. Hearing and seeing great things convinced me this is the perfect place for me to start something new. Having the opportunity to support learners in a different way was a huge draw for me as well.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Michael Franti & Spearhead.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Babysitting for my neighbors.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Meeting so many awesome people who are pursuing personal growth, working with the outstanding staff at our Enumclaw center, and getting to train with so many departments (a huge thank you to everyone helping me with my onboarding!).

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Building relationships that support students, faculty, staff, community members, and Green River programs in Enumclaw.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Traveling with family and friends, competing with my dog, and starting a new career.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Rosie because I believe “we can do it!” and am an upbeat optimist.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would either play something on the piano or stack the tallest Jenga tower ever.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators Really Empower Enumclaw Neighbors

New Employee Spotlight – Emily Kohring

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Emily Kohring

I am a Program Coordinator for the Assessment & Testing Center on campus. Before this role, I was a Housing Case Manager for a King County non-profit, where I worked to secure housing for families within the Highline and Tukwila School Districts. I am still deeply invested in homelessness advocacy, affordable housing, and barrier removal for those in our community.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

At this stage in my career, I want to gain higher education experience and learn how to work within a different environment than the one I had before. I live in Auburn, which is a great commute!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

The ride is too short to really get into anything, so I prefer to chat with my husband about the day ahead.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I have a very entrepreneurial spirit – when I was eight, I created my own pet care business and distributed flyers in neighbors’ mailboxes to get jobs.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

To be on a college campus again and know I am part of something bigger than myself.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would love to complete as many trainings as possible to better my understanding of higher Ed and our student population.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Having my son, who just turned one year old.
2. Graduating university.
3. Living life in partnership with my best friend.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Only time will tell!

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Standing front flip on a trampoline. The talent show should totally exist, by the way.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get Ready Every Evening Now (to prepare for the morning rush)

2019 Employee Service Awards

Opening week is almost here! As we prepare to kick off a new school term, we want to take time for celebrating our colleagues and their years of service at Green River. We hope you’ll join us on Thursday, September 19 2:00pm-4:30pm in the Grand Hall (SU). We will celebrate our service award recipients along with distinguished faculty and outstanding staff. Thank you to our service award recipients, and to all of you, for everything that you do in Service to Education!

See 2019 Service Award Recipients below:

5 Years

Phillip Andrist
Allison Beckwith
Katherine Cunnion
Kelsey Denton
Christine Dixon-Hundredmark
Kyle Evans
Sarah Franz
Peter Gudmunson
Inna Lukyanova
Megan Marchand
Timothy Mason
John McCormick
Manila Mercurio
Adriana Milligan
Anna Neil
Michael Nielsen
Carrie O’Brien
Kimberly Olsen
Tina Ostrander
Andaiye Qaasim
Kieran Raney
Megan Reiser
Olga Shostak
Kari Sutlovich
Chelsie Taresh Ciscell
Monica Tolas
Dale Wilkie
Michael Wood
Jennifer Youngquist

10 Years

Amanda Clifford
Devon Klein
Galina Marar
Andrew Orr
Wyatt Schill
Philip Smith
Christopher Ward

15 Years

Alan Carter
Hoang Do
Fia Eliasson-Creek
Raisa Gulchuk
Thomas Jackson
Elizabeth McKinney
Jeffery Perlot
Darcy Silvest
Lea Ann Simpson
Mark Thomason
Allison Warner
Elizabeth Williams

20 Years

Anita Behrbaum
Danielle Crivello-Chang
Barbara Iribarren
Allison Jansen
Walter Lowe
Julie Moore
David Nelson
Catherine Rabold
Thomas Tagliente
Elizabeth Valdivia

25 Years

Jean Carlson
Thomas Krause
Marcie Sims
Wendy Stewart

30 Years

Kathi Anderson
Sheryl Gordon
Nancy Kremer
Glen Martin
Lynn Nguyen
Cindy Small

35 Years

Frank Primiani

2019 Opening Week In-Service Day

Opening Week is just around the corner! In-Service Day (Wednesday, September 18) will feature a number of faculty and staff-led workshops. We invite you to attend one (or more!) of the workshops on offer during the week. Click here[2019 Opening Week In-Service Day] for times, locations and facilitators and click the link below to sign up!

In-Service Day Signup

New Employee Spotlight – Erica Chang

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Erica Chang

My new title is the Benefits Hub Campus Coordinator. I came from Treehouse, which is a nonprofit that advocates for youth in foster care. I have also worked at University of Washington-Tacoma, Tacoma Community College and Eastern Washington University where I gained experience in admission advising, academic advising and scholarship programming.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to Green River College and this role because I want to be in a position where I can be creative yet strategic in providing student support services while being in an environment that advocates for that. Green River College is innovative in its diversity of student support systems, academic programs, and resources and I am grateful to be part of it.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Currently, I am listening to the podcast, Yoga Land, which keeps me motivated on how I can create yoga sequences, understand biomechanics, and how yoga can be used effectively in schools and prisons.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first paying job was working as a babysitter and a dog walker and I would often do both simultaneously.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m excited to see the Benefits Hub grow and help alleviate barriers for Green River College students.  I’m also excited to create, try and deliver new ideas.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I hope to learn as much as I can about what each department and program does and offers on campus. I am also interested in learning more about the students, what their needs are, and how to best help.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Having the courage to try and fail and try again in my professional and personal life.
• Hiking the Enchantments in 12 hours. Such a beautiful, yet, challenging day.
• Taking the time to travel. Traveling has provided me with variety, made me more knowledgeable, and broadened my perspective.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

My previous coworkers have called me by my last name, which has become a term of endearment.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Go

Read

Everything

Especially

Now

New Employee Spotlight – Regina Terpay

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Regina Terpay

I am the new Program Manager for the IEP Department. Before this role, I was a District Manager for Frito Lay. Furthering my education, I started at Green River receiving my Associate’s in Business and received my Bachelor’s in Business at Central Washington University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The community of people!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to Podcasts & Audible

What was the very first job you ever had?

Delivering Newspapers for the Seattle Times

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with international Students, I have an international background myself. I was born in Ukraine

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to be able to form great relationships with my team members

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating College
• Completing District Manager Training at Frito Lay
• Working with teenage girls, and making a positive impact on their lives

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

In the past, I have been nicknamed “Pam” from The Office. Not sure, but I’ve reminded coworkers of her when I was an Admin Assistant…Don’t know if that is a compliment? J

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Piano, I have been playing for 15 years

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G – Grand

R – Resourceful

E – Ethical

E – Educational

N – Network

Accreditation 2020!

Green River’s Accreditation visit is coming in less than one year! Over the coming months, we’ll say more about how you can help Green River College to shine during our visit. For now, let us introduce you to what accreditation means and how it includes you!

Key Facts to Know:​

• Date of Accreditation Visit–April 29-May 1, 2020​
• Accreditation is not a separate thing.  Accreditation is a part of who we are in our responsibility and accountability to ourselves, our students and community.​
• Accreditation Steering Committee members in your areas will connect with you and your departments/divisions as we prepare.​

What is accreditation?​

Accreditation “is a process of recognizing educational institutions for performance, integrity, and quality that entitles them to the confidence of the educational community and the public” (NWCCU “What is Regional Accreditation?”).​

​Accreditation checks for:​

• Intentions – Has Green River defined a consistent mission and core themes?​
• Capacity – Does Green River have the resources it needs to accomplish its mission and core themes? ​
• Achievement – Is Green River accomplishing its mission and core themes?​
• Sustainability – Does Green River have the resources, staff, etc. it needs to continue to meet its mission and core themes? ​

Why is accreditation important?​

• Identifies areas of success and areas for growth for further planning and development​
• Makes the college eligible for Federal grants, loans or other federal funds ​
• Makes Federal Financial Aid available to students ​
• Allows for students to sit for state licensure examinations in professional fields
• Allows students to transfer of credits between institutions & ensures quality of those credits​

How are YOU a part of accreditation?​
How can YOU help tell our story? ​

• Truly understand the mission and core themes of Green River College. ​
  • Do you know the mission and core themes of the college?​
  • How does your work support the mission and core themes of the college?​​
• Be prepared to answer accreditors’ questions about the above as well as the following topics/questions:​
  • Why do we do what we do? ​
  • How does it support the college’s mission? ​

New Employee Spotlight – Beleqsa Tamaami

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Beleqsa Tamaami

My new role is Basic Skills Navigator in the MAC (Master Achiever Center). This past May, I received my Masters in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Indiana University, where I served as a graduate supervisor in housing for two years. Prior to IU, I worked as an AmeriCorps college coach with College Access Now, serving first-gen and low-income seniors at Decatur High School. My professional interests are rooted in supporting marginalized students and disrupting systems of oppression.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

It’s my alma mater; who doesn’t want to be a gator? GRC, despite some of the challenges I recall as a former student, is also the place where I grew and broke out of my shell through my amazing mentors. For this reason, I look forward to pouring into students the same way folks did for me.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Shawn Mendes and anything pop music related globally (Bollywood, Kpop, etc.)

What was the very first job you ever had?

Internship with the city of Kent in the summer of junior year in high school. We painted a really beautiful mural on one side of the Kent pool (it’s still there) by Kent Meridian High School.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The connections and relationships I get to build with my students and colleagues. And the salary (I was on a graduate stipend for the past two years and prior to that an AmeriCorps stipend, the glo-up is definitely real ha)

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Build meaningful connections with different departments outside of my immediate role  on campus and inspire/mentor students who might not always see themselves reflected in higher education.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating with my Masters this past May and seeing my family and friends fly out to Indiana for the first time to experience that with me. My graduating is as much theirs as it is mine.
• Studying abroad three times in undergrad (China, Morocco, and Jordan), all fully funded through scholarships and financial aid.
• Graduating with my BA again from UW Tacoma (after transferring from GRC in 2014), as a first gen student and the eldest of my siblings. This was a huge accomplishment and surreal moment for my family and me.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I don’t have a hidden talent so instead I would just show everyone the video my friends and I made dancing to the #BeforeILetGo challenge in our graduate gowns and making it on Beyoncé’s Instagram story.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, and Everyone, Else, Nonessential

New Employee Spotlight – Ashley Brintzenhofe

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Ashley Brintzenhofe

Hello Gators!

My new title is Event Coordinator 2. I am currently a member of Cohort 8 pursuing my Bachelors in Marketing & Entrepreneurship here at GRC. I was a bartender/manager at the SportsPage here in Auburn for years (some of you know me as “SMASH”), and when the place suddenly closed down, I decided to really shake it up. I came back to school. Shortly after I enrolled, I started working in Conference Services for Patty as a work-study student, and now I am excited to say I am a classified full-time employee.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The opportunity to be a part of the army that works so hard to embrace, encourage, and support our students is what drew me to apply to Green River. The staff here at GRC helped me change my life, and I want to pay that forward.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

On my ride to work today, I was listening to ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, and Wu-Tang Clan. Yesterday it was Blondie and Hed PE.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was a paper route for the Seattle Times when I was 10 years old.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

This entire experience is exciting for me. I am an excited person, but if I had to choose only one thing, I would have to say that the most exciting thing about my new position is having the opportunity to help students create memorable experiences through their events. Being a part of memories that will last a lifetime is truly an honor.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

One thing I would love to accomplish in my first year at Green River is to build our social media presence in a way that allows us to connect and engage with students and our community. Establishing and maintaining meaningful relationships with students and staff will help me address the needs of our diverse community throughout the event planning process.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Surviving my late teens/early 20s
• Going back to school in my 30s & Graduating from GRC
• Being sponsored by GNU for women’s snowboarding

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

“SMASH”

My family started calling me Smash when I was three (3) years old. It actually took me a few months after I came back to school to get used to being called Ashley, so if I don’t respond right away, that’s why. My friends, family, and most people that know me call me Smash. I will tell you why some other day. Sal calls me something else, but that’s another story. J

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

For our annual talent show, I would showcase either snowboarding, horseback archery, or my artwork.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators Remarkably Encourage Embracing Nations

What is SafeColleges?

What is SafeColleges?

The SafeColleges Training System is a comprehensive, web-based training system that delivers engaging compliance and prevention training for students, faculty, and staff. The site offers a series of online research-based courses covering Human Resources and Employment practices, Environmental Health & Safety, Information Technology, Emergency Management, Social & Behavioral, and Security and Nutrition Services. Courses comply with important federal legislation, including Title IX, FERPA, and OSHA.

SafeColleges offers training modules in the various topics in video formats anywhere from 10 – 25 minutes and presented in real life applications.

Maggie Crutcher, Environmental Safety Manager for Green River College, has been instrumental in making better use of this web-based training system by implementing programs that support environmental safety and compliance at GRC. If you want to learn more about SafeColleges and what you can do to support compliance at GRC please contact Maggie Crutcher (mcrutcher@greenriver.edu).

Summer Hours 2019

Summer hours are almost back! This year’s summer hours setup is a little different than the past few summers, so here is some information to guide you on how things will work this year:

• Summer hours begin the week of July 8 (the week after Independence Day).
• Summer hours run through the week of August 30 (meaning that regular hours resume the week of Labor Day).
• The summer campus hours will be 8 am to 5 pm Monday-Thursday, with campus closed to the public on Fridays (our current hours are indicated here on the website: https://www.greenriver.edu/campus/).  Not all shifts will align directly with the hours as there may be personal, departmental, or support needs that fall outside of those hours.
• Employees should work out their individual schedules with their supervisors. While we are closed to the public on Fridays, employees can work on Fridays, with supervisor approval (HR approval is not required).  Please note, for employees who work on Fridays during the summer, we will have very limited services.  There will be no Facilities, Food Service, Bookstore, Mailroom, IT or HR support on those days, and no expectation that other offices will be available.

Here are a few notes to help clarify this year’s summer hours:

Q:  This seems less complicated than past requirements around summer hours.  What’s the catch?

A:   We know that better decisions are made when we give employees and supervisors the flexibility to work together to meet the unique needs of their departments.  We wanted simple and flexible.  No catch.

Q:   How do we complete our TLRs?

A:   That depends on your schedule.  In coordination with your supervisor, you can choose to work 4-10’s, or some combination (4-9’s and 4 hours leave, 5-8’s, or something else).  Once you and your supervisor agree on your schedule, fill out your TLR to reflect those hours that you’ve worked and/or taken leave.

Q:  Can I work 2-20’s?  Do I have to take a lunch break?  Can I start at 3:00am?

A:  There are some parameters around number of hours worked each day, lunch breaks and start times.  Our general rule is you should not work longer than a 10-hour day (plus lunch break) and if you are classified staff, you must take a lunch break.  We also strongly recommend starting hours for most staff to be no earlier than 7:00am.  That’s because we have Facilities staff and others whose regular start times are earlier so that they can get work done in your areas before you get here.  A sample schedule for a classified employee working 4-10’s could be M-Th, 7:00am to 5:30pm with a half hour lunch, or 7:00am to 6:00pm with an hour lunch.  These are just examples; talk to your supervisor to ensure department needs are adequately addressed.

Q:  Aren’t we prohibited from being here on Fridays?

A:  No, but please note that many campus services including IT, HR and Facilities will not be available on Fridays.

Q:  I am classified staff.  Can I work 32 hours one week and 48 hours the next week if it’s all in the same pay period?

A:  No.  Because of Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) rules, you cannot work more than 40 hours in a one-week period, because that puts you in overtime status.

Q:  Don’t I have to have multiple approvals to be allowed to work on Fridays? 

A:  No, your schedule (subject to the conditions already noted above) should be worked out between you and your supervisor.  If you need HR help, just let us know.

Q:  Will my supervisor allow me to work on Fridays?

A:  You will need to discuss that with your supervisor.  We are encouraging departments to have conversations around staffing needs, and to be as flexible as possible.  You do not need HR approval to work on Fridays.

Q:  I am a supervisor and I don’t want to work on Friday, but I have classified staff who do.  Can my staff work without a supervisor?

A:  We are encouraging departments to develop schedules that work for the college and the employee.  In general, we need to have some supervisors and administrators here on Friday if we have staff working.  That’s because sometimes things happen that require individuals with specific levels of authority to be available.  An example might be a power outage, or a snowstorm.  We need someone on campus who is authorized to act on behalf of the college, however every department does not need to have specific supervisors working.  As an example, the Business Office might have people from Purchasing, Accounting and Budget all working on Friday, but the only supervisor here is the Budget Director.  That would be fine – we don’t need three supervisors here.  We might also not have any supervisors in the Business Office on a given Friday; however in that case someone would be identified as being available if needed, typically via telephone or email.  A situation where you might want to have a specific area supervisor present is if you have new employees – it might not be comfortable or even possible for them to work unassisted on Friday.  We also have entire departments who work on Fridays year-round, because the work they do has to happen whether we are open to the public or not.  We are trying to make things as simple as possible for everyone, while giving departments and individuals as much flexibility as possible.

2019 Distinguished Faculty Award Recipients

The votes are in, and the 2019 Green River College Foundation Distinguished Faculty Award Recipients are:

Diana Holz

Rob Jonas

Danny Najera

• Diana Holz, Early Childhood Education
• Rob Jonas, Mathematics
• Danny Najera, Biology

The 2019 nominees also included Antonia Bennie-George and Laurie Centauri.

Faculty members received their awards at commencement, Friday, June 14th at the Kent Showare Center.

Please extend your congratulations to the award recipients and nominees!

New Employee Spotlight – Michael Taing

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words. 

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Michael Taing

My new title is the Program Coordinator for the Running Start department. I have 3 years of working in Student Support positions, even while I was still a student. I started my path here at Green River College as a commissioner for the Office of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. After completing my Associate’s in Arts and Business, I transferred to UW Tacoma where I received my Bachelor’s in Business Administration: Management. While attending UW Tacoma, I worked as the office manager for their student government (ASUWT) and then transitioned into being an Administrative Assistant for their Finance & Administration department.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I applied to Green River because I had the opportunity to be here as both a student and student employee. Green River College was my first college and stayed with me throughout my academic and professional career. The culture, location, and community that the college had built always motivated me to try and bring those same aspects with me to UW Tacoma. After graduating from UW Tacoma, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to come back to where it all began and join the department that set me ahead in my higher education.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

A wide array of music, that probably makes anyone sitting in the passenger seat think I’m weird. I listen to a mixture of Top 40s, Video game music, and EDM.

Sometimes I’m in the mood to pretend like I’m playing video games, sometimes I’m in the mood for listening to what’s popping currently, and sometimes I’m in the mood to hear music that makes you dance.

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first job I ever had was being a Parcel Clerk (cart-pusher) at Fred Meyer. It wasn’t what I really wanted to do or wasn’t what I was going for in a career, but I was 16 and just liked having $90/week.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

What’s most exciting to me is seeing what the background operations are like for Running Start and what it takes to help students get a head start. Also what it generally is like to be an employee of Green River College.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Something I’d love to accomplish in my first year at Green River College is making some sort of difference in the office. This difference could be making things easier or faster or more fun than they already are!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My first one is finishing my Bachelor’s at UW Tacoma. My second one is getting to this point in my life doing things the way I wanted and going towards the future I see for myself. The third accomplishment is exploring my identity and finding a way to express myself, while connecting with others.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Mickey because my usual nickname is Mikey, but I’d feel that after enough time in this office, people will see me as happy-go-lucky and positive as Mickey Mouse.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Making 100+ crab legs disappear with a chomp from my mouth.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators rarely embody eerie negativity.

New Employee Spotlight – Sophia Giakoumatos

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Sophia Giakoumatos

I am the Educational Planner for Health Sciences programs. I came from Renton Technical College (RTC), where I worked for just under five years. I have experience working in Disability Services, Enrollment Services, and with BAS Programs.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have enjoyed all of my visits to the college. I particularly enjoy the nature all around the area.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I generally listen to local radio stations. I like to listen to see if there are any contests, since I enjoy playing (and winning) radio contests.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first full-time job out of college was actually at RTC. Prior to that, I had a few part-time jobs at the University of Washington, where I was a student for four years.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am excited to help get students on the right track to enrolling in a health science program. I have always enjoyed working with students and I am excited to be able to do this in a new setting.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to get to know as many staff and faculty as I can, especially those who I will be working most closely with. I also want to build meaningful relationships with the students I serve.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I am most proud of graduating from the University of Washington with two bachelor’s degrees plus a minor in four years, being the first in my family to receive a master’s degree, and winning many contests.

 

 

New Employee Spotlight – Samantha Fernald

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Samantha Fernald

Hello, my name is Samantha and I’m the Business BAS Program Coordinator. I spent a year at Interstate Distributor Co. as a Human Resources Assistant in their Driver Care Center. I graduated from Pacific Lutheran University with a B.B.A in Marketing. After graduating, I took some time off to travel and got the opportunity to explore the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to apply at Green River because I wanted to work somewhere that made a positive impact on people within the community. I believe that education can provide people with life-lasting knowledge and opportunities.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a little bit of everything, audiobooks, podcasts, Ted talks, and music. Currently I’m listening to Pete Buttigieg’s autobiography “Shortest Way Home.”

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first job I had was being a Sales Associate at Marshalls. I got hired before the store was done being constructed, so for my first 3 months I unloaded pallets of items to get the store ready.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m excited to reach out and connect with students. I look forward to helping students on their education journey and having them learn about the BAS in Realtime reporting. Also, I’m excited to use my creative side when working on outreach via marketing.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I’d love to assist students in having a smooth and stress free enrollment process.  I want to ensure they love their time at GRC and are excited for the opportunities that await them after graduation.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I’m proud I graduated with my B.B.A in Marketing. I’m also proud of the work I did on my final university project, helping a small Tacoma business (Purely Africa) research and discover how to market and implement a new product line. The third thing I’m proud of is managing difficult situations during the solo travel I’ve done.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Sam? Does that count haha?

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I’m good at memorizing rap music.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Goodhearted

Resourceful

Encouraging

Engaging

Notable

RSVP now for the Retirement Social

Employee Spotlight – Maati Ka’awa

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words. 

Maati Ka’awa

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Director of Branch Locations for Auburn Center, Enumclaw, and Kent Station. For the last 3 years, I worked with South Seattle College at both the West Seattle and the Georgetown campuses, coordinating with Deans to provide day-to-day support for apprenticeship students and faculty. Prior to that I spent 4 years at Highline College in the Continuing Education and Workforce Education departments. I am excited to partner in this good work with you all.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was attracted particularly to this position at Green River because it was a good fit for what I have done previously and a great opportunity to learn so much more in a new role. I also live in a nearby community, so this is an opportunity for me to invest in South King County and communities where I live.

From the interview, to completing the hiring process, to my first day, every step has been such a warm welcome and community feel. At every step, I felt that this was going to be an amazing community to work with and for.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I often don’t listen to anything in the car because I like the silence.  I use that quiet time to wake up with my coffee, unwind, or reflect important aspects of the day.

What was the very first job you ever had?

It was a cashier and customer service position. I learned so many transferable people skills in that job.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m really excited to partner with the new Dean, the faculty, and the staff to serve students at the extended campuses. I attended branch campuses in Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington at all levels of my educational journey, so I have a real personal connection in how these campuses add value to lives and communities and am really excited to be a part of our students’ paths to success.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

This first year is going to be about establishing relationships. I want to meet and connect with as many people, departments, and community partners as possible. Some of the best collaborations are unintentional, but occur when people come together and discuss their work, passion, and goals, and where that might intersect.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My most recent accomplishment was finishing my Master’s degree in Higher Education at Central Washington University in August 2018. It took 4 years, one class at a time, while also working full-time. I have a greater appreciation for our students who are going to school while also being partners, parents, caregivers to older parents, working, overcoming barriers, etc.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I’m not sure! I guess I’m going to have to see. 🙂

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Good

Relationships

Equal

Excitement and

Noisiness

Employee Spotlight -Yuliya (Julie) Kotelevskaya

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words. 

Yuliya Kotelevskaya

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My name is Yuliya (Julie) Kotelevskaya  and my title is Program Coordinator in the Career and Advising office. I’ve worked in the Career and Advising office for about four years. I first started as a work study, then worked part-time in CAC as well as Running Start and the Welcome Desk. I recently graduated from Gonzaga University with my Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Criminal Justice and Sociology. In the fall, I will start my Masters in Criminal Justice at Seattle University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

During my time as a student at Green River, I fell in love with the beautiful campus, environment and the people here. I had a great experience here at GRC and I wanted to be able to share my experiences and struggles with current and prospective students.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Whatever is playing on my Spotify, which consists of Adele, James Arthur, Kane Brown, Dan & Shay, Halsey, Khalid, Sam Smith, and Calum Scott.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My work study position in Career and Advising.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am really excited to be working with students again. I enjoy making connections with students and being able to help them. It’s also great to be back and working with an amazing team!

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to find more ways to help students and prepare them for GRC. I want to help students feel welcome, comfortable, safe and part of the Green River community.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating from Gonzaga University with my Bachelors
• My senior thesis which focused on mass shootings in the media, and how the media’s coverage of these attacks is linked to copycat attacks.
• Being accepted into Seattle University. I’ve always wanted to attend, and now I have the chance to!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Princess or diva, I’ve been called that many times in the office. I love the color pink, glitter and all things that sparkle.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would sing, or make French macarons.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Genuine

Reliable

Energetic

Empathetic

Nice

 

GRC Retirement Social 2019

It’s time again for our annual Retirement Social! Mark your calendars for Wednesday, June 5, 3:00 pm-5:00 pm in the Great Hall at the Lindbloom Student Union.

2019 Cap Graduation & GDEC Banquet

The Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Green River Diversity & Equity Council will be hosting the 5^th Inaugural ODEI CAP Graduation & GDEC Banquet on Friday, June 7.  This is a time ODEI CAP students are recognized for their accomplishments and milestone in graduating or transferring and acknowledging the hard work and dedication of our GDEC members this academic year.

 

New Employee Spotlight – Melissa Garland

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words. 

Melissa Garland

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Retail Clerk Lead at Papertree Bookstore. I have been in retail management most of my career. I thoroughly enjoy interacting with people and love books.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I worked in the medical field the last 2 years and wanted to get back into a bookstore. I have a few friends that work at Green River and spoke very highly about it. When I saw the job posting for Papertree I immediately applied. Thankfully I was offered the job! : )

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I love audiobooks, but since my car ride is only 15 minutes, I now listen to 103.7 or 98.9 on the radio. A good mix between country and hip hop is a good start to any day!

What was the very first job you ever had?

Babysitting

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’ve worked in a couple bookstores, but never a college one. It’s exciting to be a part of a school atmosphere and interact with people of all ages on a daily basis.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

To help create a positive and exciting workplace where students, staff, and faculty will have a good experience.

 What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Spent time in Haiti and Uganda helping out in the schools, orphanages, safe houses and jails.

Ran a 5k and didn’t stop once. That’s a big deal for someone who doesn’t usually run!

The best is yet to come.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

My coworkers already call me a bunch of different “M” names because no one seems to get my name right. : )

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My rope jumping skills.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Give

Respect

Engage

Enjoy

Nurture

Green River College New Employee Orientation

Why is Orientation Important?

Orientation is more than the paperwork; it’s an official introduction to Green River College. Orientation is important to an organization because it lays the foundation for the new employee’s career with the organization. It makes a great first impression and it can establish the basis for everything that follows.

Monday, April 22 kicked off our first new employee orientation! Mark Brown (Learning & Development Manager) and Tamara Shilipetar (Green River College Recruiter) welcomed 5 new employees beginning at 8:30 am, with coffee, doughnuts, and yogurt. The session covered various topics, including our mission, vision, and core values; benefits; payroll; the Green River College Foundation; professional development opportunities; campus parking and security.

The new employee orientation will be held twice a month, with our next session on Monday, May 6. If you were hired this past spring and are interested in attending an orientation please email Mark Brown mbrown@greenriver.edu and we’ll add you to our orientation roster.

IT Skills Enhancement Training for Spring Quarter

IT is offering enhancement training to the Green River College community. Pay close attention to the SharePoint 101 sessions. These will help you prepare for the May 15 soft launch of the newly redesigned GatorNet.

Getting the most from:  Remote Access, Shared Drives, Password Reset and more!

 Use “Remote Access” while you’re not on campus.  Always save your information to the “shared drives”.  You can reset your passwords with the “Password Management System”.  IT references these tools all the time, but do you really know what they mean?  Join us for SET #2 where we’ll go over the IT tools that are in use at GRC today.  This session will incorporate hands on computer training to help build your ability to use these tools properly and with confidence in your day-to-day world.

This workshop will be offered in HL 116:   Wednesday, May 1^st  2PM to 3PM

Click here to register for IT SET #2:  Remote Access, Shared Drives, Password Reset and More!

SharePoint 101

SharePoint is Microsoft’s multi-function tool for collaboration, data sharing, web site hosting, and document storage. Today, SharePoint does all of this and is increasingly becoming the foundation for Office 365 collaboration. Join us for an overview of SharePoint. Together we will review SharePoint websites, web parts, permissions, and go over how SharePoint plays with other Office 365 tools.  SharePoint also happens to be the tool used for the revised GatorNet which will soft launch in May, 2019.  We are excited, and hope you are too!

This workshop will be offered in HL 116 the following days and times:

Thursday, May 2^nd 2PM to 3PM

Wednesday, May 8^th  2PM to 3PM

Thursday, May 9^th 2PM to 3PM

Wednesday, May 15^th 2PM to 3PM

Thursday, May 16^th 2PM to 3PM

Click here to register for IT SET #3:  SharePoint 101

New Employee Spotlight – Maggie Crutcher

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words. 

Maggie Crutcher

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Environmental Safety Manager, based out of the Facilities Department.

I’m coming from the Dept. of Labor & Industries as a Compliance Safety & Health Officer. Prior to that I served as the Safety Coordinator for Franz Bakeries, and have worked at local businesses as their Safety/HR Generalist.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The campus has a great atmosphere with a long history of giving back to the community.  I respect that.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to Spanish conversational cds. Quiero hablar más español.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was serving in the United States Navy as a Lithographer (Print Shop). I have traveled worldwide, served on board ships, sub tenders and naval air stations.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

It’s exciting to be working with so many exceptional people with diverse backgrounds.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I’d like to formally recognize each individual who championed a safety effort, prior to me coming to GRC.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from GRC 10 years ago with high honors

Earning certifications in PHR, SHRM-CP, Flagger, Compliance and Toastmasters

Marrying Ken, my husband and best friend for the past 26 years

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

“Chandelier” is a usual office nickname. I’m known to seek out chandeliers and take unique photos of them, my portfolio has 44 glimmering photos so far. “Keep Shining,” is my motto!

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I’d showcase photography as a hobby, perhaps even host a GRC selfie booth with Slater the Gator!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Global Harmonizing, the safety data sheets program

Robust, building upon an already strong safety program

Engineering controls, to help minimize risk

Eye Protection, to preserve sight

Notable, for all the combined efforts that keep us safe everyday

New Employee Spotlight – Fen Chen

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Fen Chen

My new title is Instructional and Classroom Support Technician II for Chemistry and Physics. Prior to this position, I held the same title as a Technician I at Tacoma Community College. I’ve also worked at a Veterinary Tissue Bank and volunteered at the Tacoma General Hospital.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to the beautiful campus. I love that we’re basically a campus on a hiking trail.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I usually will keep changing stations until I find a song that I like. I sometimes end up spending more time changing stations than listening to music. But I generally listen to 106.1, 92.5, 93.3, 107.7, 98.9, and 106.9.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I started my first job working in the front counter of my family’s restaurant.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m most excited about working with my team to make Green River a great place for our students.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I’d love to work with our instructors and to help promote Green Chemistry in our labs, to reduce waste and substitute hazardous with non-hazardous reagents without affecting lab results.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

The first accomplishment would be getting accepted into my dream school at UW and graduating with a Bachelor’s in Biology. Second would be getting my first job as a Chemistry Lab Technician after college. The last would be the house that I’m currently in the process of buying.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I’ve never had an office nickname but my friends call me FenFen.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Everyone’s so talented at Green River, I don’t want to embarrass myself haha.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Growth, Respect, Education, Encouragement, Nature

Frontline: Helpful Hints and Tips

Our Employee Assistance Program continues to be a wonderful source of helpful information! This month’s EAP newsletter, Frontline, offers tips about a number of issues including:

• Gratitude
• To-do lists
• Positive thinking/attitudes
• Fitness ideas for the desk worker

Click the link below to take advantage of more ways to improve your work relationships and beyond!

EAP Newsletter

New Employee Spotlight – Shawn Warner

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Shawn Warner

Financial Aid Program Coordinator

I’ve had a few different professional “lives” from customer service, to trainer, to chef and have always most enjoyed the chance to help others.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to Green River’s commitment to diversity across the board – its students, programs, and support.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I like to ease into the morning with classical music or jazz, or maybe get my brain working with a podcast.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was as a counter salesperson and sometimes delivery driver for an auto parts store. I still don’t know why they trusted me to drive a company car.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m most excited about being able to act as a resource to students navigating the many parts of their academic careers. I hope to be able to help solve for their Financial Aid questions and needs so they can focus on the work of reaching their goals. I love the feeling of all of the potential that exists in a learning environment.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

If I can help to alleviate stress or concerns for students and help them move forward, I will consider that a huge win. I’d love to also become better versed in all of the support programs available to help connect folks to resources whenever possible.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I’m most proud of the work I’ve done over the years teaching, training, or facilitating – helping others with their goals in some form. I was also pretty proud of my first decent croissant after taking a chance on a culinary school dream.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I have never really had a nickname stick. The challenge has been created.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I’m an amateur singer – in the shower.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great team

Ready

Engaged

Enthusiastic

Now

New Employee Spotlight – Joshua Little

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words. 

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Program Coordinator: Assessment and Testing

Before coming to Green River, I worked for Valley Cities, a mental and behavioral health organization. I was a part of a unique treatment program called Wraparound, which supports youth with complex needs. In my role as a Youth Peer, I provided support to youth to ensure their ‘voice’ was present in all decisions effecting them.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to apply to Green River College because I grew up not too far from the campus. Giving back to my community has been a guide in my career development so being able to support students in achieving their educational and career goals was an opportunity I could not pass up.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I love this question. Music is life for me. I listen to Hip-Hop/Rap mainly, but I also listen to some R&B, Indie, and Reggae. On my way to work today, I listened to some Lil Uzi, Curren$y, Gunna, Kodak, Berner, Dom Kennedy, and others. I have a long commute.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was at Burger King in Covington, WA. It has now been replaced with Chick-fil-A.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

What is most exciting for me is simply working at the college. I want to develop a career in higher education, so being in this environment feels like a big step in my life. My plan is to become a psychology professor. I also look forward to interacting with students and helping them navigate their college career.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to show my value to my coworkers, supervisors and most importantly the students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating college was a great accomplish of mine. I was the first person in my family to graduate from college.

I am also proud that I have had the opportunity to share my life story with young men to give them guidance and hope for their future.

I’m proud to be alive.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Well my friends just call me J, L, or LJ. In my last office I worked with a lot of older ladies and they called me Joshy all the time. The nicknames my friends call me are just based off my initials. Joshy started from one of the ladies saying “I look like a Joshy”.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would DJ for the event.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Each letter would stand for one of my favorite artist.

G- Game

R- Raz Simone

E- E-40

E- Earl Sweatshirt

N- Nas

New Employee Spotlight – Arden Furukawa

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

New Title: Educational Planner for the Running Start Office

Professional Background:

Academic Advisor at Edmonds Community College

College & Career Specialist at Mariner High School

Regional Admissions Advisor at Eastern Washington University

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The academic programs, student support services, and resources that the college offers, along with the affordability of the courses.

The size and location of the college, and how beautiful the trees and greenery are that  surround the college campus.

The desire to stay within the community and technical college system, because of how strong the CTC system is in Washington.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

• Adele
• Norah Jones
• Maroon Five
• Coldplay

What was the very first job you ever had?

Food server at a retirement home

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with the Running Start students to accomplish their educational goals.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Increase persistence and degree completion with the Running Start students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Earning my Bachelor’s degree in 2011, and being 3 months away from earning my Master’s degree. (Will earn it in June 2019)

Serving students in a variety of capacities in different professional and volunteer roles including an advisor, college & career specialist, student teacher, mentor, and parks & recreation volunteer.

Running over 130 races in my lifetime.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Snacker, because I love to snack all day!

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Traditional Filipino candle dance.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get Ready – Energize & Empower New students

 

New Employee Spotlight – Anna Kolesnikov

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.  

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Instructional & Classroom Support Technician 3. Wow that’s a mouth full, or simply a Lab Tech 3. I moved here from Florida last year, where I worked as a Chemistry Lab Supervisor for Valencia College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I’ve loved my job back in Florida and enjoyed working with students and professors. So this position at Green River College was available in the perfect moment for me to continue my work in the chemistry laboratories.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I like to listen to NPR news and Moving 92.5 morning show.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job as a 12 year old was a dog walker at Cascade Kennels.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The most exciting thing about my job is the team I get to work with. And maybe that fact that I can wear a white lab coat J

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

My biggest challenge this year would be to set up a web-based online chemical inventory.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Attaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry

Traveling to over 15 different countries

My family

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? 

I don’t Zinc so!

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My musical abilities.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Go

Read

Explore

Engage

Nature

Last Chance to Enroll in Long-term Disability

  Last Chance to Enroll in Long-term Disability

There are just a few days left to enroll in Long-term Disability, which ends on March 31, 2019. This was special, one-time open enrollment opportunity for optional long-term disability insurance. Click the highlighted link above to find out how you can enroll.

 

New Employee Spotlight – Deborah Diggins

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Waterworks Professional Growth Program Manager (Program Manager A) for Washington Certification Services

I have a Masters in Teaching and BS in Cell and Molecular Biology, I was a high school science teacher for 5 years and a small business owner for 3 years.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I always wanted to work in a college atmosphere. I enjoy the energy, motivation and ambition of staff and students here.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mostly 90’s Rock and Stand-up Comedy.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Tennis Instructor

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The people I work with are amazing and everyone here has been very welcoming.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Learn ALL the acronyms associated with my program.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Raising a brilliant and energetic little 4-year old; staying close with my family and friends; and purchasing our first home with my husband, which took years to accomplish.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can play Rockband Guitar (it a video game) on Expert level.  It would be cooler if it was the real thing I know, but still a “skill”.  Maybe not J

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

 

New Employee Spotlight – Iqbal Halimi

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My name is Iqbal Halimi. I work as the Workforce Education Coordinator at Green River College. I joined the team a week ago and am looking forward to working with my new colleagues to accomplish our goals and contribute to the overall missions and objectives of the college.

I began my career in 2002 as a teacher and moved on into leadership and management positions at different international organizations. In the past 16 years, I managed and implemented 14 basic education and workforce education projects. These projects touched the lives of many low-income families.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

A major reason that I applied for work at Green River was that I really admired the college’s vision and values, which focus on student success and programs that address the needs of different communities. These mesh well with my past work endeavors and my future goals.  I want to see students from all parts of society overcome barriers and achieve their dreams.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

When I am in the car alone, I like to listen to different radio stations and hear the songs they play. When it’s raining, I just want to listen to the rain. However, if my two-and-a-half-year-old daughter is in the car, as soon as she sees a few drops of rain, she sings the well-known song that says “Rain, rain go away, little Johnny wants to play.” She is very much an outdoor person!

What was the very first job you ever had?

I started serving people as a teacher. I made mistakes, but I learned from those. One lesson that I have drawn from my work as a teacher and from working with teachers is that not only do teachers matter more than any other single factor in delivering quality education but that a teacher can also play a crucial role in initiating bottom-up reforms in a school. I have seen it happen many, many times.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am really pleased that I am in direct contact with students. I already frequently see them and am learning from them. Honestly, they are our allies and we are their allies.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to help as many eligible students as possible through my department to get workforce education funding and complete their education.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I have had several notable accomplishments in my life. Probably the most notable was that I completed my master’s degree in international education at the University of Massachusetts and in the course of that work made many new friends of different nationalities with whom I am still in touch professionally and personally. Although we are in different countries, we rely on each other’s knowledge, skills, and expertise.  Another accomplishment that I happily look back on is that I have managed to travel to eight different countries and learn a great deal about a wide range of issues from people that I had never met before. Each different cultural experience taught me an important lesson. Finally, one other accomplishment that stands out is that I learned how to play cricket. I applied different strategies to learn this sport and managed to play some serious games. The secret for learning this game, and I am sure for other sports, is to spend time with your team members and learn from their expertise. Each team member has their own unique sets of skills.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I will go with Iqbal or Ikbal. Iqbal means luck and it’s good to have some luck in life. That will serve as springboard.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

When I was student, I was good at preparing short photo films (video presentations) that complemented the group presentations that I led at my school. My classmates liked those pictures and the background music that I chose. I like to use metaphors and images because they are powerful communicators.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

I don’t know how good I am at this, but I will give at try. I would say “Go Run with Ease and Energy Now.”

 

 

New Employee Spotlight – Jane Alfano

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Foundation Development Specialist. Prior to this position, I worked at Virginia Mason Foundation, Nordstrom, and stayed at home with my daughter who is now eight years old.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

There are quite a few reasons I applied. I was hoping to build on past development experience and the thought of doing that in support of local college students and faculty was very exciting for me. Some GRC community programs were already on my radar, especially GRCF’s ICA Art Docent program. And, when I learned about the honey bees, I was in.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

NPR for news or I shuffle music on my 15 year old IPod.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was a sales clerk at Nicholson’s Drug Store in downtown Sumner, WA.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

It is hard to pick just one thing, but overall, I’d like to learn how best to prioritize my tasks and simplify processes (when possible) so that I can spend time getting to know our donors and support our team.

 

 

 

New Employee Spotlight – Tim Anderson

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Program Coordinator for the Enumclaw Campus. I worked at Green River College a little over 5 years ago, where I was the Program Coordinator for Community Outreach. I’m very happy to be back. Since I’ve been gone, I’ve worked for Girl Scouts, Junior Achievement, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Merrill Gardens Senior Living and Washington State Parks! A lot of places over a small span of time, looking for that perfect ‘fit’. I have several years of programming and management experience, along with event planning, enthusiasm and thinking ‘outside’ the box.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

In my quest for finding the perfect job, I discovered that what I really enjoy is education, nature and being outside. With that in mind, I decided to take a leap and go back to school to pursue becoming a park ranger. Recruiting for Green River, I know that we offer one of the best (if not the best) Natural Resources programs. Naturally, I decided to come to Green River for my new degree. To support myself while in school,  I started working as a Safety Officer at the Kent Campus. When the Program Coordinator position opened up at Enumclaw, I knew this was a perfect fit for me and that I could be a true benefit to the campus. I’m ecstatic that I was able to land the position and work at the college that I love while attending classes.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I’m commuting from Lakewood, so I have almost an hour to enjoy listening to several different things. My ‘go to’ is NPR or KOMO news radio in the mornings and also enjoy 90’s alternative rock or hits from the 80’s.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at a lumber re-manufacturer, where I ran a machine that made molding and handrail, and I was also a certified lumber grader for light structural and decking.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I love working at satellite campuses! You are able to establish close relationships with your team and the community. I’m also just happy to be back at Green River in general. I’ve enjoyed reconnecting with former co-workers as a student over the past 3 quarters and as a safety officer over Fall Quarter.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Enhancing the experience of the students out here at Enumclaw. I am a firm believer in ‘Think Student, Then Decide’ and that is what drives my decisions here. There are exciting prospects out here and I’m looking forward to supporting new endeavors!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Backpacking 20-miles, alone in the Olympic National Park
• The legacy that I’ve left behind at all of my past employers
• The solar system diorama I did in 5^th  grade

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Tim the ‘tool’ man – I am pretty resourceful and I’m able to find possible solutions to a problem.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would not be in the talent show. I more than likely would be the one that emcees, finds the talent (by encouragement), or advertising the event and getting people there.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Groups
Require
Energy,
Empathy &
Nourishment

 

Green River College Foundation – Student Scholarships for 2019-2020

The 2019-2020 Scholarship Application process opened on January 15, and will close on April 30, 2019.  There are more than 300 Green River College Foundations scholarships available to be used for tuition, fees, books and required supplies at Green River College. By submitting one application, you’re applying for all scholarship that we offer.

To learn more about the Green River College Foundation or available student scholarships please click on the link

Visit https://grcfoundation.awardspring.com

 

Enroll in Long-term Disability during the month of March

From March 1 through March 31, 2019, you will have a special, one-time open enrollment opportunity for optional long-term disability insurance. You can enroll or reduce your waiting period without providing evidence of insurability (proof of good health). Normally, you must submit proof of good health to take these actions after your initial 31-day eligibility period for PEBB benefits.

This opportunity is available to employees whose employer offers LTD insurance. Changes made during March 2019 will be effective May 1, 2019. Learn more about optional LTD, or calculate your LTD insurance needs, on The Standard’s website.

If you haven’t enrolled in optional LTD in the past, or didn’t want to provide proof of good health, now is a great time to reconsider this benefit.

Note: The current preexisting condition exclusion and 12-month exclusion period will still apply during the one-time open enrollment. Please read your certificate of coverage carefully to understand this benefit.

How do I take advantage of this opportunity?

To enroll or reduce your waiting period, complete the Long-Term Disability One-time Open Enrollment/Change Form and submit it to your personnel, payroll, or benefits office by March 31, 2019.

Registration is OPEN for IT Skills Enhancement Training!

The IT department is happy to announce the opening of registration for the Winter Quarter IT Skills Enhancement Training. Workshops will begin in February and will include a repeat of 2 training sessions from Fall quarter (for those who missed them) plus SharePoint 101!

Below are the topic descriptions including the registration links.  We hope you will join the fun of learning together while expanding your skills!

SET #1: Office 365 Overview  

This is a high-level review of the Office 365 tools that are available to all Green River Employees.  We’ll examine what tools you can leverage today and go over some of the exciting new programs that will be coming to GRC in the near future. This workshop will be offered in HL116 on the following days and times:

Tuesday, February 5^th:   Noon to 1PM

Thursday, February 7^th:  2PM to 3PM

Click here to register for SET #1:  Overview of Office 365

SET #2:  Getting the most from:  Remote Access, Shared Drives, Password Reset and more!

Use “Remote Access” while you’re not on campus.  Always save your information to the “shared drives”.  You can reset your passwords with the “Password Management System”.  IT references these tools all the time, but do you really know what they mean?  Join us for our second session where we’ll go over the IT tools that are in use at GRC today.  This session will incorporate hands on computer training to help build your ability to use these tools properly and with confidence in your day-to-day world.

This workshop will be offered in SH 350 on the following days and  times:

Tuesday, February 12^th :             Noon to 1PM

Thursday, February 14^th :            2PM to 3PM

Click here to register for IT SET #2:  Remote Access, Shared Drives, Password Reset and More!

SET #3:  SharePoint 101

SharePoint is Microsoft’s multi-function tool for collaboration, data sharing, web site hosting, and document storage. Today, SharePoint does all of this and is increasingly becoming the foundation for Office 365 collaboration. Join us for an overview of SharePoint. Together we will review SharePoint websites, web parts, permissions, and go over how SharePoint plays with other Office 365 tools.  We are excited, and hope you are too!

This workshop will be offered in HL 116 the following days and times:

Tuesday, February 19^th:   Noon to 1PM

Thursday, February 21^st:  2PM to 3PM

Tuesday, February 26^th:   Noon to 1PM

Thursday, February 28^th: 2PM to 3PM

Click here to register for IT SET #3:  SharePoint 101

READY, SET, GO!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Employee Spotlight – Sharmarke Ahmed

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Sharmarke Ahmed

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My position is Trio Educational Planner/Transfer Specialist. I graduated from the University of Northern Colorado where I was a Graduate Hall Director/ University Apartments Manager and later a Career Counselor.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I started at Green River College and finished my A.A. Degree. After I graduated with my Master of Art in Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership from the University of Northern Colorado, I knew I wanted to work for Green River College. I have so much love for this institution.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to music old or new. Hip hop, R&B, Pop Music, and the list goes on.

What was the very first job you ever had?

When I was in eighth grade I cut grass for my neighbor then the rest of the neighbors after I got better at my position.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

One-on-one with the students, making an impact on students’ life, and field trips.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I just want to get better in my position and get to know as many people as possible at Green River College.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Surviving the civil war in Somalia, getting a full ride scholarship from Bill & Melinda Gates, and getting my Master’s Degree.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I have been called ‘Shark’ all of my life. In the future, I would love to be called ‘Dr.Shark’.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I love doing stand-up comedy and just enjoy making people laugh.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green River Effective Efficient Network

 

Employee Spotlight – Chris Casey

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Chris Casey

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hello! My name is Chris Casey, the new Judicial Affairs and Compliance Officer.

My career has been a combination of residence life at Illinois State University, Colorado College, and Green River College coupled with student conduct at the University of Texas at Arlington and now Green River College. You might have seen me handling cases for student conduct this past year and it’s finally time for me

to transition to the role full time. I’ve got lots of big ideas and methods to maintain a high standard for our students throughout their education here.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

So many things! The wonderful people I get to work with every day, the gorgeous setting for the institution, and, certainly the main reason, our engaged, thoughtful, and motivated students. Our president has outlined our core values that focus on our students with strong educational programs and wrap-around services to ensure success. These are core values that I hold on my own and it’s a wonderful place to work!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

If you’ve been to my office you might notice I listen to music a bit on the harder side. Genres like deathcore, industrial, djent, or just straight heavy metal. Nine Inch Nails is my favorite band!

What was the very first job you ever had?

I started working in the family red delicious apple orchards when I was a kid. Does that count? My first paycheck was through a local grocery store where I stocked shelves and mopped the floors. It was good, honest work when I was 16.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m excited to engage our community and illustrate how student conduct can support our faculty, staff, and students in maintaining a high level of standard both in behavior and academics. Student conduct is an excellent office to set that expectation throughout the college. Oftentimes alleged violations come from a lack of something: knowledge of the process, motivation to be competitive, understanding of the college system, etc. I hope to remedy all concerns in an equitable manner.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want this office to be seen as a resource for education and support. When faculty, staff, and students understand when to report alleged conduct violations, how to report to this office or Campus Safety, and how to get involved with student conduct that would be a victory. We can do that in a year!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I’m proud of the family I’ve built with my wife, our daughter, and our son due in May. We’re a solid little group.

I’m proud of work I’ve done for students over the years. I stay student focused in everything I do and sometimes that leads to hard decisions. Though the letter, card, or email you get every once in a while where someone was appreciative or recognized your work keeps me motivated.

I’m proud of my work / life balance. It’s absolutely important to love your job (I do) and I also think it’s healthy to maintain an active and engaging life outside of the office. You’ve got to make this life count!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

My staff often said “Boss Man” which I rather liked. Students have said Mr. Chris but that might be a bit too formal. My past supervisor called me Jason a lot though I think that was on accident.

Just remember my name, that’s all I would like. No need for a nickname.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Well, my bowling average is 180. Though that’s not incredibly exciting. So I’d say my ability to skip. I honestly didn’t learn how until I was in college but I’ve gotten quite good at it over the years.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gummi bears, send them

Right now to me

Everybody

Everyone

Need them, please.

Classified Staff In-Service Day

On behalf of the Classified Training and Development Committee, we invite all classified staff to a workshop focused on the importance of student completion and how non-faculty members can play a role in assisting students towards that goal. February 7, 2019 will feature two options for attending this workshop: 9a-10:30a and 1-2:30pm (supervisors: make note that, while areas should remain open, employees should be given the time to attend one session). Below is a little bit of information about our day’s facilitator, Erin Jones!

Erin Jones

Erin Jones has been involved in and around schools for the past 26 years. She has taught in a variety of environments, from predominantly Black to predominantly White to some of the most diverse communities in the nation. Erin received an award as the Most Innovative Foreign Language Teacher in 2007, while working in Tacoma and was the Washington State Milken Educator of the Year in 2008, while teaching in Spokane. In March of 2013, the White House recognized her as a “Champion of Change” and she received Washington State PTA’s “Outstanding Educator” award in 2015. In 2016, Erin ran as a candidate for State Superintendent (the first black woman to run for any state office in WA), a race she lost by a mere 1%.

Employee Spotlight – Kimberly Rashel

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am a graduate of the Green River court reporting program and have been a real-time closed captioner for the past 13 years. I have captioned everything from the Olympic Games to your local newscasts and everything you can imagine in between.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I learned about the job opening from one of my former instructors, who encouraged me to apply for the position.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mostly talk radio

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked cooking burgers and making drinks for Orange Julius.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

It’s a new challenge for me in my career and will expose me to things I haven’t yet had a chance to experience.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Organize and caption a large majority of the online videos that Green River offers.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from court reporting school, captioning the Olympic Games, and being parent to my two boys.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Pippi, because I sometimes wear my hair in braids and have a lot of freckles.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My crochet and knit creation

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great Reason Everyone Enjoys Nature

Employee Spotlight – Justin Dampeer

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Justin Dampeer

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hello! As the new Director of Basic Skills, I have a background and passion for providing educational access to historically marginalized populations. I have worked in TRiO Student Support Services, Workforce Education, and ESL/ABE as both faculty and staff member. I also taught pre-school for a couple of years and did SAT Prep.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Coming from Highline College, I had previous positive experiences collaborating with faculty and staff here at GRC. Also with a passion for serving our students of color and immigrant and refugee populations, I knew I needed to stay in South King County.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

My pump up song to get me ready for the day is Des’ree “You Gotta Be.”

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first job I ever had was at a Sonic Drive-In as the fry cook in Mississippi where I grew up.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am most excited to work with our college to improve access for all students.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Eat at all the good restaurants in the Auburn area.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Being a good son to both my parents

Graduating college (first in family)

Helping others graduate college

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Take Out would be my nickname, because I don’t cook. EVER.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My hidden talent is that I’m shameless. With that said, I would perform a choreographed skit/dance to Janet Jackson’s “Nasty.”

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Ready

(for)

Energy

(and)

Enthusiasm

Now

New Employee Spotlight – Tori Engstrom

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Tori Engstrom

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is the Program Coordinator in the Running Start Office. I previously worked at Seattle University in the Disability Services and South Seattle College as a college coach/mentor in the Pre-College TRiO Programs. I am finishing up my masters’ degree in Student Development Administration at Seattle University

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I absolutely love the campus and the environment that surrounds it. My mom’s family was raised in Maple Valley, so I am very familiar with the area and want to give back to this community. I also am passionate about working with the student population that GRC serves.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a little bit of everything, but my favorite music is Rock (Heavy Metal, Modern, Punk, and Alternative). I also like to listen to Hip Hop, Rap, some electronic music, and I  love folksy/chill kind of music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was working at a Youth Center. I got to work with middle school and high school students in a Boys n Girls Club-like setting every day after school. I got to chaperone field trips, plan events, and help the students with homework.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m excited to be working in a full-time position that supports my education. Since my own time in Running Start, I have wanted to give back to that program. I am also excited about the Running Start Club that is associated with our office and hope to be a supportive role in that!

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I just got connected with GDEC and I am super excited to participate and contribute to that. I’m hoping I can find a way to grow with Green River. I am very excited for the possibilities that Green River has to offer me.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Being nominated for Student Employee of the Year at WWU
2. Getting accepted into Seattle University’s Student Development Administration M.Ed program
3. Being offered the Program Coordinator position at the Running Start Office here at GRC

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I’ve never really had any other nicknames because Tori is technically not my first name so getting everyone to call me Tori seems like a nickname to me haha

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I love to sing and dance, I can play the piano and sing

I also have been told I have a good sense of humor and people tend to laugh when I talk to them so maybe some stand-up?

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G – Grrrrrreat

R – Retro

E – Energetic

E – Extra

N – Nifty

Fall 2018 Health Sciences Graduation

On behalf of Dr. Barry Robinson, Dean of Health Science and Technology

Congratulations to graduates of two certificate programs from the School of Health Science and Technology at the end of the fall quarter. There were 11 students that graduated from the NA-C program (Certified Nursing Assistant) and 22 students that graduated from the Phlebotomy program.  Also, this is the first graduating class from the Phlebotomy program since its resurrection after four years of inactivity.

Dr. Robinson would like to thank all the faculty and staff for a great job with these programs. To the students he wishes them continued success in their future.

See below for pictures of our graduates

New Employee Spotlight – Fernando Yanez – Martinez

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hola, my name is Fernando and I have the privilege of being the program coordinator in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I am bilingual in Spanish and English and proud to be from the Latinx and LGBTQ+ communities.  Prior to my new role, I served as the Latinx Peer Navigator for the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; had the honor of being President for the Latin@ Student Union; and co-founded the Latin@ Student Union’s event Fiesta Latina, deemed the “Best Event” during the 2017-2018 scholastic year.  In addition, I was an AmeriCorps member implementing before and after school programs for secondary school students who needed supplemental academic support and guidance.  Moreover, I was a Lego Robotics and STEM Instructor for a Lego franchise.  In every professional capacity, my passion led me to help and serve others.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was a student employee in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion during the 2017-2018 academic year.  That year helped confirm my desire to dwell in a relational space that acknowledged, celebrated and empowered my way of being, my identity and intersectionalities.  During this time, I also had an opportunity to ignite my leadership qualities, and expand personal and professional development. I am excited to expand in-depth concepts and nuances regarding DEI initiatives and projects.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

It depends on the day of the week and my mood. I could listen to anything from cumbias and reggaeton to alternative and instrumental.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was at an apple pie (and pumpkin) factory.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am extremely enthusiastic to connect and support students through various programming, services, and resources our office provides on campus. I look forward to the plethora of intercultural and diverse events, forums and workshops our office and students host throughout the year.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to fully immerse myself in Green River to make connections and build relationships throughout campus so I can better serve our communities on and off campus.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• I’m the first one in my family to pursue higher education.
• Completing my year of service in AmeriCorps
• Coming back to GRC as a program coordinator.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I can’t think of a specific nickname, but I’ll make the assumption it would have to be something with lovely, or being positive.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Spoken word.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Graciously

Recognizing

Excellence

Empowerment and

Narratives

New Employee Spotlight – Annemarie Vinson

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.  

My new title is manager of The Paper Tree Bookstore. I spent 10 years as a retail store manager at JC Penney.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I wanted to work in an educational setting and make a positive impact on people.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Audible – currently Me Before You

What was the very first job you ever had?

Dishwasher at 13 ½ years old

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with my store

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Get to know faculty and staff in school to promote sales

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• First in my family to attend college and graduate with 4 year
• Married 20 years to Curtis Vinson.
• Managed stores like my Grandfather did.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Woody Woodpecker- sometimes I laugh a lot .

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Dress and act silly / comedy

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for? Green

River

Educational

Experience

Newsletter

New Employee Spotlight – Makoa Rosa

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hello all!  My name is Makoa Rosa and I am the new Program Assistant for Athletics and Recreation.  I am an ex-collegiate athlete, so I’m extremely excited to enter a career in the same field.  I come from an athletics background and was working in athletics at Highline College prior to this position.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have always lived in the Auburn area, so I was very familiar with Green River’s  campus and culture prior to applying.  As soon as I saw an opportunity open up within the athletic department, I was quick to submit my resume.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Typically a combination of classic rock or country music (odd I know).

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was as a tennis coach.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m really excited to improve athletics and see the program expand and grow as a whole.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

In my first year at Green River, I would love to see at least one sports team make it to the championships.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating college with honors
• Getting a scholarship to play collegiate tennis
• Taking Highline College’s tennis team to the NWAC finals

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

My nickname would probably be Mac.  Often times “Makoa” is hard for people to pronounce, so this might save people some trouble.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can do some cool tricks with a tennis racquet and ball.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G: Gators

R: Really

E: Enjoy

E: Experiencing

N: Nature

Paid Family & Medical Leave is Coming to Washington State

On behalf of Sheryl Gordon:

Starting in 2020, Washington State will be the fifth state in the nation to offer paid family and medical leave to workers.  Washington State passed legislation in 2017 that established the “Paid Family and Medical Leave” (PFML) program that offers Washington workers the opportunity to receive partial wage replacement while on leave for qualifying family and/or medical events after establishing eligibility. This insurance program will allow workers to take up to 12 weeks, as needed, when they welcome a new child into their family, experience a serious illness, need to take care of a sick relative, and for certain military connected events.  If workers experience multiple events in a given year, they may be eligible to receive up to 16 weeks, or up to 18 weeks if the employee experiences a serious health condition with a pregnancy that results in incapacity.

Premiums

Washington’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Program is organized as an insurance program, and like most insurance programs, it is funded through premiums.  Beginning on January 1, 2019, most employers will be required to withhold premiums from their employee’s paychecks, and many employers will be required to pay into the program too.

As directed by the Legislature, premium assessment begins on January 1, 2019 and benefits can be applied for starting January 1, 2020.

Great News! 

Green River College is opting to pay both the employer and the employee premiums to fund this new Paid Family & Medical Leave program! 

Details on How It Will Work

Eligible Washington workers will be able to use Paid Family and Medical Leave benefits starting in 2020.  The application and benefit payment process will be managed by the Washington State Employment Security Department.  For more information about PFML, go to www.paidleave.wa.gov

Holiday Campus Closings

Greetings Green River Colleagues!

The holidays will soon be upon us and we’d like to share this year’s holiday schedule. Our campus will be closed to the public beginning at noon on Monday, December 24, 2018 and Monday, December 31, 2018.   Employees should plan to work their entire regular shift on those days or, if on approved leave, submit vacation, personal holiday, or other appropriate paid leave for the hours of their entire regular shift not worked. Have a great holiday season!

New Employee Spotlight – Mark W. Brown

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Mark W. Brown

 Greetings Green River Colleagues! My current role is Learning & Development Manager. 

 I’ve been in the world of learning and development for over 15 years and most recently served as Training Manager and curriculum lead at University of Michigan, where I was responsible for leadership development programs. I also researched, designed and facilitated courses on generations in the workplace, managing the generational shift, which focuses on Millennials in the workplace, onboarding and performance management. I’m looking forward to getting to know and work with everyone here at Green River!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was looking for a position that would offer a level of creativity and challenge.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to NPR on either KNKX or KUOW.

 What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Creating and developing a world-class learning organization for students, staff and faculty

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

The one thing I’d like to accomplish is creating a stellar orientation and onboarding process.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Completing my MBA with a specialization in Human Resource Management, owning my own catering business, and helping to raise my nephew.

 For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Can we have a bake-off? I think cooking or baking something would be my talent.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gracious

Respectful

Engage

Energize

Nurture

New Employee Spotlight – Samuel Krahn

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Samuel Krahn

My new title is tenure track Music Instructor in the Department of Music and Theater. My background is in music composition, classical and electric guitar performance, electronic music, and improvisation. Before Green River, I taught as a faculty member at Montana State University, the University of Providence, Great Falls College – MSU, and as a Graduate Instructor at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. I received a Ph.D. in music composition at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, a M.Mus. in music composition from Roosevelt University, and a B.Mus. in classical guitar performance from Boston University.

As a composer, I participated in the 17th World Saxophone Congress and Festival, the New York City Electroacoustic Music Festival, the MATA Festival in New York City, the Source Song Festival in Minneapolis, the 2015 Root Signals Electronic Music Festival, the 46th Ball State Festival of New Music and the 70th annual Cheltenham Music Festival in England. In 2017/2018 I was an Artist-in-Residence at the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Contemporary Art, where I created an interactive sound art installation: Sound/Play. I received a grant from New Music USA for a new 35-minute work for saxophone and electronics and was a recipient of the 2017 Montana Arts Council Artist’s Innovation Award.

What drew you to apply to Green River? 

I was impressed with the growing music program and saw potential for expansion in the program within my own area of expertise. Also, when I interviewed, I was struck by the beauty of the Auburn campus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to? 

This list changes often: Frank Zappa, Prince, Bob Dylan, Sun Ra, Segovia, 20-minute drum solos, noise, etc.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am enthusiastic to share my musical knowledge with students and to get students excited about creating music and sharing their work with the community.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

My primary goal this year is to create a recording studio space in the RLC building for music students and for future interdisciplinary collaborations.

 

Open Enrollment Continues!

On behalf of Sheryl Gordon:

Our Open Enrollment period is continuing but you’ve got just 15 days to make changes to your current plans! From now until November 30, you can make the following changes:

• Change medical and dental plans;
• Add or remove dependents from your coverage;
• Enroll or re-enroll in the Medical Flexible Spending Arrangement or the Dependent Care Assistance Program
• Waive medical coverage if you have or are enrolling in other employer group medical, a TRICARE Plan or Medicare;
• Enroll in health coverage if you previously waived;
• Re-attest to the spouse/state-registered domestic partner coverage premium surcharge.  You only need to do this during Open Enrollment if PEBB sent you a letter telling you to do so.

 

You make changes on your My Account feature on the PEBB website 24 hours/day.

 

Changes made during Open Enrollment become effective January 1, 2019.

Winter In-Service Day (Save the date)

Winter In-Service day (February 7, 2019) is coming right up! We hope you’ll make a note in your calendars and keep the below information in mind:

For the Winter In-Service Day (07 February 2019), Green River College will be closed to the public.  There are no classes that day so that faculty may participate in divisional in-service activities.  We are closing to the public so that classified staff may attend sessions with a speaker (details pending) as they did last year.  Additionally, the exempt staff will have an in-service opportunity this year.

If you have any questions about the closure to the public, please contact your manager.  If you have any questions about the content of the in-service day, please stand by as instructional divisions and the committees (CSTDC and ESTDC) are currently planning the sessions.

Employee Spotlight – Kim Macias

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Kim Macias

 

Program Coordinator-Enrollment Services

Worked at San Diego State University as an Administrative Coordinator/Residency Specialisfor 20+ years in Office of the Registrar

What drew you to apply to Green River?

After looking at open positions, the position I applied for was a perfect fit to what I was currently doing at SDSU, after relocating to Washington I was looking to get back into the same kind of position.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

SiriusXM-station 53

What was the very first job you ever had?

Working at Wendy’s

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Being able to work with and help students, faculty and staff in person.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Become a valuable team member in Enrollment Services, and get to know our students as well

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating from Dental Assistant School
• Working with SDSU for 20+ years
• Relocating from out of state and finding my new job

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Bubbles…I guess because of the personality

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great

Rocking

Excellent

Education

Now

 

New Employee Spotlight – Scott Beals

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Scott Beals

Greetings Green River Clan,

I am the Building Secretary for the second floor of Salish Hall supporting the Business, Fine Arts, and Social Science Divisions. My first 19 years of life were spent in Western Massachusetts. After that, I lived in Sedona, Arizona for 16 years, California for 14 years, and the past year in Auburn, Washington. I have worn many hats throughout my life. Here are just a few of the things I have done: banking, artist, gallery owner, jeep tour driver, Colorado River guide, real estate agent, server, restaurant manager, licensed general contractor, business owner, graphic designer, print broker, volunteer, step-dad, and more.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

My wife, Emily, received a full-time, tenure-track English Faculty position here at GRC last year. Having left my general managing job in Central California – I was spending time winding down a bit when my wife said the second floor of Salish Hall needed some help. I started in a temporary capacity last spring. It has been a pleasure immersing myself in the culture and environment of GRC as well as meeting and developing relationships with an amazing group of faculty and staff. This led me to apply for the permanent position.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mostly silence as I let my mind wander in the well-worn path of the drive. Occasionally, some classic rock or 80’s – my time period!

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first paying gig was grounds crew over the summer at my high school after ninth grade. Weeding, loading up debris, and trips to the landfill – oh myyy! Now, re-read that last sentence in George Takei’s voice!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Engaging and learning about the many cogs in the GRC wheel to be an effective, compassionate, and confident guide (concierge?)/resource for students, faculty, and staff. Also, this position syncs up nicely with my wife’s schedule.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

To visit every department listed on greenriver.edu from the Assessment and Testing Center to the Writing Center. I’d like to meet someone from each department and learn a bit about what they do. There are 36 listed (maybe more not listed there?) so that is about one per week.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Number one – marrying my best friend and partner in life. We will celebrate 11 years next July. A special one since 11 is our lucky number. Number two – helping to raise two boys after their father had passed away. Number three – being instrumental in helping to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for our son’s high school football program over a four year period of time.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

It would be “Scooter”. I tend to walk very fast and with purpose – almost as if I were motorized – hence, scooter (also, it’s what my sons call me!).

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Finesse in ice skating. Too bad we don’t have an ice rink here!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Goal Resetting, Each & Every November!

New Employee Spotlight – Whitney Miller

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Whitney Miller

I am a Budget Analyst 2. After college, I started my career at Chasing Fireflies, where I worked my way up from an Accounting Assistant to a Staff Accountant during my 8 years with the company. Then, I worked at Pierce County as an Accounting Assistant 2 before coming to Green River College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

When I read the job description it sounded like what I had been looking for and was the only one I was really excited about. I just had the feeling that I would enjoy the work and it would be a positive environment.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I like a lot of different types of music, but I often listen to country music on the way to work.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was as a File Clerk at a doctor’s office.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Honestly, all of it is exciting to me. From the work, to the environment and people, to the commute, it has all been exciting.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Along with learning the ins and outs of my position, I would love to be a part of the Green River community and get to know my colleagues.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Working full time while completing my second degree, buying my house, and the relationships I have with my family and friends.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Goals Realized Excellence Enhanced Now

Get ready for Harvest Festival!!

On behalf of the Classified Staff Training and Development Committee:

Don’t forget that the annual Green River College Harvest Festival is just around the corner! See below for this year’s festival information:

Wednesday, October 31

11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Cascade Hall, Student Affairs & Success Center

 

This event is open to all Green River College employees.  Come for the full time or drop in when you have a moment. 

 The Classified Staff Training & Development Committee is happy to provide dessert, coffee, and water service again this year.  Please bring a brown bag lunch or stop by the cafeteria on your way.

 2018 Harvest Fest Events: 

• Food Drive for the Auburn Food Bank October 16-31
• Food Bin Decorating Contest runs through October 31 (bins delivered October 16)
• Pumpkin Decorating Contest – bring your decorated pumpkin to the event for judging
• Costume Contest – multiple categories including small group, large group, and individual costumes

 

It’s time for flu shots!

On behalf of Sheryl Gordon, Benefits Manager:

The Seattle Visiting Nurse Association (SVNA) will be conducting a flu immunization clinic at Green River College again this year!  The clinic is scheduled for:

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

9:00 a.m. – 12 noon

Student Union – Emerald City Room

Please see the links below for the Patient Consent Form, Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) and the Seattle Visiting Nurses’ Association Privacy Statement. You don’t need to sign up for your flu shot, just show up with your completed Patient Consent Form on the day of the clinic.  SVNA also recommends you bring your insurance card to the clinic.  Everyone will need to complete the Patient Consent Form; the information is required in order to process the billing.

2018 Patient Consent Form

Vaccine Information Statement

Privacy Practices

SVNA provides the standard Quadrivalent (four strains). The nurses carry a small amount of Thimerosal-Free (preservative free) which they offer to pregnant women as required by WA State regulations. The nurse may accommodate a request by non-pregnant participants for the T-Free vaccine if there are enough doses available at the time of the clinic.  SVNA generally gives the standard Quadrivalent vaccine to all non-pregnant participants unless requested otherwise.  SVNA does not offer the high dose vaccine for those over 65 years old, the egg-free vaccine, flu mist (nasal spray) or pneumonia vaccine.

 What are the payment options?

1. SVNA can bill directly for nearly all major insurance plans (they will bill your PEBB Uniform or Kaiser plans).  The insurance information will be provided by you on the attached Patient Consent Form.  SVNA recommends you bring your insurance card to the clinic.
2. Pay cash/check – If a participant is uninsured or if it’s a plan SVNA does not bill, the participant may pay in cash or by check at the time the vaccination is given.  SVNA does not take debit or credit cards.  The standard Quadrivalent flu shot is $40.

New Employee Spotlight – Justin Core

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Justin Core

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the Manager of Recruitment and Outreach for Green River College.  I am a native of Tacoma, Washington who served the first ten years of my career in the Washington Community and Technical College system.  I spent the last 18 years as the Director of Student Engagement in the Oregon Community College system.  I hold an MA in Organizational Leadership and a BS in Organizational Communication.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Growing up in the Puget Sound area is such an important part of who I am. I was drawn back to the area after almost two decades of living in Oregon.  My brother is a graduate of Green River College and many of my friends attended the college before transferring to a university.  I am really excited about the position and the possibilities that exist for recruitment and outreach.  When I applied, I saw this position as exciting, rewarding and challenging.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Right now I am listening to HOT 103.7.  100% Throwbacks.  If that’s not on, then I’m listening to P!nk.  I can never get enough of her honest, funny and real lyrics.  She stands for so much more than music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

When you grow up the son of an electrician, you have no choice but to work for the family business. I was an apprentice electrician from age 15-25.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am really excited to tell the story of Green River College and engage prospective students.  I like the challenge of showcasing our programs and encouraging students to attend college.  I enjoy meeting new people, creating positive relationships in the community and long walks on the beach.  Okay…..the long walks on the beach part isn’t true.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I hope to foster positive relationships on campus and in the community to better serve and provide opportunities for students and prospective students.  I plan to widen our reach to underserved and non-traditional students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating from college and working in higher education. Serving as a mentor to hundreds of students in my career as a Student Life advisor.
• Being elected to International President of the Circle K Service Organization. I spent my junior year in college traveling around the world speaking to colleges and organizations about community service.
• Being a son. I won the parent lottery.  Through hardship and difficult times, my parents were amazing.  I owe them everything and I worked hard to make them proud.  RIP Dad.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

“JC.”  Simple enough since it’s my initials and what people have called me the last two decades.  But, I also go by “Juice” — nickname I had growing up.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I have been a DJ and emcee since I was young. So I would spin the hits and get the crowd hyped. J

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Real

Electric

Energy

Now

GRC Service Awards Recap

On Thursday, September 20, we celebrated 83 faculty and staff service anniversaries. Besides the incredible number of honorees, this year’s awards were notable for another reason: we presented them on their own day during opening week. This gave us an opportunity to include the entire board of trustees as well as giving our honorees an even that was entirely dedicated to them. We’ve included a few photos of some of this year’s winners along with the full listings below!

Thank you to our recipients for your years of service to education! Thanks, as well, to the Conference Services and Media Services crews for helping make this year’s event truly memorable.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

5 Years

• Patsy Cadwell
• Amy Davidson
• Neil Duldulao
• Lynette Edwards
• Laeticia Egesi
• Rebeka Ferreira
• Emilee Findley
• Jeanette Fohn
• Jacob Frye
• Brian Hansen
• Nicole Harris
• Aaron Hartzell
• Scott Hemingway
• Richard Hill
• Dana McCauley
• Jamie McCuaig
• Patrick Mumpower
• Bjorn Myhre
• Niki Nelson
• David Norberg
• Rob Olson
• Monica Paulson-Priebe
• Nadine Pavlov
• Melissa Porras-Monroe
• Richard Potsubay
• Deanna Rish
• Jennifer Rohan
• Ariadne Rooney
• Shanna Selvar
• Shannon Sharpe
• Katy Shaw
• Karl Smith
• Felisha Stephens
• Theresa Torell
• Laura VanSteenvoort
• Leonard Wainstein
• Larry Wild
• Chiae Wilder

10 Years

• Pat Carter
• Rhonda Daulton
• Anne Dolan
• Richard Douglas
• Kelly Eisenhour
• George Frasier
• Aaron Leavitt
• Wendy Lundquist
• Deborah Lynes
• Michael Moreno
• Rachel Neville
• Jenny Park
• Kevin Parr
• Jeff Perlot
• Sarah Postel
• Gavin Pyle
• Jane Swenson
• Jamie Vandette
• Benita Walters

15 Years

• Steven Brumbaugh
• Rob Jonas
• Paul Metivier
• Amanda Schaefer
• Chitra Solomonson
• Terry Waagan

20 Years

• Vik Bahl
• Steven Black
• Lansing Bryan
• Dawn Cleveland
• Connie Jones
• Lisa Michalec
• Jerry Marshall
• Jennifer Morgan
• Diane Pelletier
• Sidney Weldele-Wallace

25 Years

• John Avery
• Shirlyn Zeno-Bassard
• Mark Blaisdell
• Leslie Moore
• Patrick Navin
• Jessica Tichy

30 Years

• Gary Jones
• Liz Petersen

35 Years

• Susan Snow Davis
• Donnie Hallstone

New Employee Spotlight – Jordan Harrington

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Jordan Harrington

I am working as a Financial Aid Program Specialist.  Before coming to GRC, I worked for three years as a delivery driver for a food bank.  For two years before that, I worked at Highline College at the Admissions Desk and IT Service Desk.  And I was a Tutor at South Seattle College for five years.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The friendly staff and beautiful environment.  Also, two of my favorite IT instructors from Highline College came here to teach, so I knew that GRC was investing in those programs, which is great.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to 95.7 The Jet or Christian rock

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked concessions at a roller skating rink when I was 16.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Being part of a hard-working team and getting to know the folks who work and go to school here.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Becoming more at home with my team, my new work load, and the campus community.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Earning my Bachelor’s degree (which took 11 years), buying my house in Burien with my wife, and surviving cancer.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I was called “The Professional” at a previous job, which I thought sounded funny and sinister at the same time, as in – I’m a professional what?

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Dancing

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators

Rally

Extra

Enthusiasm

Now!

Exempt Staff Professional Development

Our Exempt Staff Training and Development Sub-Committee has made a few updates to the professional development process for Admin/Exempt employees! At the below link, you can now do the following:

1. Learn more about the eligibility requirements
2. Discover how the application process works for all types of professional development (credit classes, non-credit classes, etc.)
3. Find out how much funding is available
4. Apply!!

The new Exempt Staff Professional Development page now also includes the application as a web form (no more downloads!). Check out the link below!

Exempt Staff Professional Development

New Employee Spotlight – Monika Delfierro

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Monika Delfierro

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Educational Planner in the Running Start Office.

I received my master’s degree in Student Development Administration from Seattle University in June 2018. During grad school I worked within the College of Education in graduate admissions and alumni engagement. I’ve also worked at Tacoma Community College within student engagement, orientation at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, and undergraduate admissions at the University of Washington, Tacoma.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

As a community college graduate myself, I have a love for community colleges and serving that specific student population. What drew me to Green River was the recommendations from current/former staff and students based on their positive experiences!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I love listening to Podcasts! Podcasts I am currently listening to are NPR, Code Switch, and Food for Thought.

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first job I’ve ever had was working at Jamba Juice, but I’m definitely more of an Emerald City Smoothie fan.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m really excited to work with students and learn about all the resources on campus to support them!

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

One thing I’ve love to accomplish in my first year at Green River is to get a photo with the Green River mascot, Slater.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Being the first in my family to graduate from college.
2. Rescuing my first dog, Leslie Knope
3. Earning my master’s degree

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I am a great back-up karaoke singer!

Green River College Service Awards 2018

Opening week is just around the corner! As we prepare to kick off a new school term, we want to take time for celebrating our colleagues and their years of service at Green River. In past years, our service awards have fallen in line with Opening Day. This year, we’re giving the service awards their own day during the opening week activities – Thursday, September 20, 2018 3:30pm-4:30pm. Thank you to our service award recipients, and to all of you, for everything that you do in Service to Education!

See 2018 Service Award Recipients below:

5 Years

• Patsy Cadwell
• Laeticia Egesi
• Rebeka Ferreira
• Emilee Findley
• Brian Hansen
• Aaron Hartzell
• Scott Hemingway
• Noah Hensley
• Richard Hill
• Jamie McCuaig
• Bjorn Myhre
• Niki Nelson
• Benjamin Orr
• Monica Paulson-Priebe
• Melissa Porras-Monroe
• Deanna Rish
• Ariadne Rooney
• Shanna Selvar
• Shannon Sharpe
• Yohannes Teferi
• Chiae Wilder

10 Years

• Pat Carter
• Rhonda Daulton
• Anne Dolan
• Richard Douglas
• Kelly Eisenhour
• Aaron Leavitt
• Deborah Lynes
• Gavin Pyle
• Jane Swenson
• Benita Walters

15 Years

• Steven Brumbaugh
• Rob Jonas
• Paul Metivier
• Amanda Schaefer
• Chitra Solomonson
• Terry Waagan

20 Years

• Vik Bahl
• Steven Black
• Lansing Bryan
• Dawn Cleveland
• Connie Hones
• Lisa Michalec
• Jerry Marshall
• Jennifer Morgan
• Diane Pelletier
• Robert Sjogren
• Sidney Weldele-Wallace

25 Years

• John Avery
• Shirlyn Bassard
• Mark Blaisdell
• Leslie Moore
• Patrick Navin
• Jessica Tichy

30 Years

• Gary Jones
• Liz Petersen

35 Years

• Susan Snow Davis
• Donnie Hallstone

New Employee Spotlight – Teresa Regalado

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Teresa Regalado

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Welcome Desk Project Coordinator. I worked the front desk for the Institute of Technology at UW-Tacoma for three years while I finished my Bachelor’s degree.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I am familiar with the area as I attended Auburn Mountainview High School, so I’ve had exposure to Green River since then. The core values definitely had the greatest impact on me, as many of those are important to my own identity and when interacting and building relationships with others.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

“Oldies but Goodies”

What was the very first job you ever had?

Wendy’s!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am excited to be in higher education and have the opportunity to help students in their getting started process.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

During my first year I would like to interact with and learn more about the many different programs and departments at Green River; be a helpful resource to incoming and current students; and be a helpful resource to my colleagues in student affairs.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from the University of Washington Tacoma with my Bachelors in Criminal justice.

Volunteering with TPD and working with at risk youth to reduce recidivism rates in Tacoma.

Assisting my father in starting up and running his business.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Genuine

Righteous

Empathetic

Ethusiastic

Nurturing

New Employee Spotlight – Tatyana Levchuk

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Tatyana Levchuk

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hello Green River Family!

My name is Tatyana Levchuk. I have recently joined the Workforce Education Department as a workforce education coordinator. I came from Highline College, where I served students as a financial aid advisor for more than seven years. I feel greatly privileged to be able to continue work in a role that supports students in their academic endeavors.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Green River is known for its commitment to providing access to higher education and employment opportunities to all who seek it, regardless of their abilities to pay. I wanted to be a part of it.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mainly Spirit 105.3

What was the very first job you ever had?

I got my first job at the age of 18, working as a food service worker at a children’s hospital in Ukraine.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The best part of my job as a workforce coordinator is hearing back from students about how they are overcoming their daily challenges and meeting their goals. It is also knowing that the work I am doing provides opportunities for others to grow and make an impact in their society.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I hope to become a valuable team player and a good resource for our students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

First, is my recent bachelor’s degree from CWU. Second, is my new job with Green River; I really enjoy being a part of my new team. And third, is my family and my children. My son is getting ready to join GRC next year as a running start student, and I’m very excited about it.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Organic—because I am known for preaching healthy lifestyle and organic food wherever I go.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I enjoy designing fresh flower bouquets, especially those that are locally grown. So I would create one of my favorite perfect bouquets.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G-Global

R-Royal

E-Empowering

E-Emerging

N-Natural

Safety has a new home!

This week, the campus changed…just a little bit. Our Safety officers and their office have relocated to the Student Affairs Building in SA 156A! As we’re all getting used to this new reality, we encourage you to take a moment to stop in at Safety and say “hello”!

New Employee Spotlight – Rahel Weldu

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Rahel Weldu

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Financial Aid Assistance Director. I have worked in higher education for over 12 years in various departments. Some of my roles involved overseeing Veterans Affairs, Financial Aid Office and Admissions/Outreach departments. I also have little bit of experience working in a school district as a Family Advocate and Community Engagement Liaison.

 What drew you to apply to Green River?

Initially, the location was the reason why I stared looking into employment opportunities at Green River. However, the vision, mission and core values as stated on the website were what inspired me to apply for my current position.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

It depends on my weather/mood of the day:  Air1, NPR, audio readings etc.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was working at Burger King as a cashier when I was in high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Returning to the “financial aid world”! I did miss a little bit of dreaming about the never-ending Federal/State policies/updates in the middle of the night. More importantly, helping students with their financial needs to achieve their educational/career goals is what excites me the most!

 What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

During my first year, I would like to learn/adopt GRC’s culture & establish relationships with different departments that allow me to be more resourceful in assisting our students and supporting my team.

 What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Three accomplishments that I am most proud of in my life are being the mother of my two amazing boys, personal development and outreach engagement that allows me to make a difference in people’s lives in my community.

 If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

 “Sweet Banty” is one of the nicknames… because kindness and harmony are most important values of mine, and I am a fighter who likes to challenges the impossible.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I do not think I have any hidden talent, but if GRC ever has annual talent show, I will go stand by the entrance to greet everyone with a big smile.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Guidance – for mentorship and leadership

Reestablishment – for change & restoration

Exploration – for new ideas and innovation

Engagement – for belonging and partnership

Nature – for acceptance of realities and facts

New Employee Spotlight – Don Thomas

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Don Thomas

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Health Occupations Educational Planner. I have worked in higher education as an academic advisor for approximately 7 years, with extensive experience on-boarding, retaining and preparing students who are seeking entry into competitive admissions programs.  I  graduate from  Kentwood H.S. and have a master’s degree in Counseling and Student Personnel from Minnesota State University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The opportunity to work with more non-traditional students and the beautiful campus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Podcasts on finances and positive thinking.

What was the very first job you ever had?

The movie theater in Auburn.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with health care students again in an advising capacity.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Going to graduations in May and June for students
• Received a master’s degree and started a Ph.D. program
• Traveled to 30 of 50 US states

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G– Guidance

R– Resilience

E– Engagement

E– Empowerment

N– Nature

New Employee Spotlight – Daniel Fergueson

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Daniel Fergueson

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Director of Student Activities and Engagement.  I worked at Linfield College as the Director of Activities and Fraternity & Sorority Life for the previous 17 years.  Prior to that, I worked as the Coordinator of Student Programs at Shawnee State University after obtaining my master’s in Education at Western Washington University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The mission and core values at Green River align with my desire to help students be successful both inside and out of the classroom.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

The Brock and Salk show on 710 ESPN, it allows me catch up on what is happening with the Seahawks!

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at Wendy’s!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with a dedicated group of professionals and students who are committed to make campus life a vital part of the Green River experience.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

To help build a cohesive team that is striving to help students have their best experience.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from Western Washington University with a master’s degree in Education.

Serving 5 years on the Board of Directors for the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA), including being the Chair of the Board.

Competing as a collegiate hurdler during my undergraduate years.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Ferg. That has always been my nickname growing up because it is easier to say that my full last name.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would probably sing in a chorus, not a soloist, but am a decent singer in a choir.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators

Rock

Each &

Every

Night

New Employee Spotlight – Dr. Rolita Ezeonu

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Dr. Rolita Ezeonu

New title: Vice President of Instruction

Brief professional background:

• 4 years in sales/customer service
• 6 years K-12 teaching experiences
• 20 years in the WA community college system
  • Highline College-adjunct faculty, full time tenured in Communication Studies, Dean of Instruction for Transfer and Pre-College Education, and Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to apply for Green River because I would be able to work for an institution that has great strengths, an engaged faculty and staff, and be able to continue to serve our students and communities in South King County.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a variety of music from rhythm and blues, gospel, hip hop, Nigerian, Hawaiian, Samoan, and more Pacific Islander music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job I ever had was working for Burger King in Honolulu, HI.  I was 15 years old.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

To be able to make a positive difference and provide equitable experiences in higher education for our students, potential students and communities.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Build positive and solid relationships across campus and collaboratively work on ways to for our students to be successful.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Three accomplishments that I am most proud of are:

• Starting and finishing my dissertation and earning a doctorate degree
• Participating in 3 half marathons
• Being a mom to my children, Chinwe (19 years old) and Chike (14 years old)

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Aloha.

I would choose this word/nickname because I grew up in Hawaii and have seen the spirit of “aloha” as something tangible.  To me it is seen as choosing to live each day with a spirit of joy and life.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My hidden talent would be some form of dance.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Giving

Respectful

Empathetic

Energized

Noteworthy

Come follow us!!

Do you know someone who is looking for employment? Come follow Green River HR at Twitter! While our job postings are always available via the GRC website and the Gatornet, our Twitter account is a great way for you to push out job postings to those who follow you.

In addition to job postings, our Twitter feed includes information that we release to you about our campus happenings (new employees, events, celebrations, etc.). With your follows and retweets, we can let more of the public know what makes Green River College so special.

Click the link below to follow our Twitter feed and share the Gator spirit!

@greenriverhr

 

New Employee Spotlight – Katie Dailey

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Program Coordinator for the BAS (Bachelor of Applied Science) in Information Technology – Network Administration and Security degree.

I’m a graduate of Centralia College where I earned my BAS in Applied Management and then was hired to work as their BAS Program Specialist representing their four BAS programs (2014). I then moved to a job at Grays Harbor College as the BAS Completion Facilitator for their three BAS degrees (2017). I’m currently working on my Masters in Science – Management and Leadership degree from WGU.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I love BAS degrees and the opportunity that they offer students who may have previously felt unable to continue their education. It was exciting to think of working for a college with so many BAS program options.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mixx 96.1, because I drive a first generation Prius with only a tape player and the radio controls are on a terrible touch screen. So, I just set it to a station I know will work the whole way from Olympia to here.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at a small hamburger restaurant called Mr. J’s in Centralia WA when I was 16.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m excited about how much this college seems to truly care about students. From what I can tell, Green River puts students, and their goals, first and that is exactly how I like to work.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I’d like to have a really solid understanding of who people are and what they do on campus. I’m terrible at names, but I love meeting people and work really hard to remember specifics about each person and what they are interested in.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

The three accomplishments I am most proud of are:

1. My kids: I have a two year old son, Brutus, and a two-month old daughter, Pavlina (we call her Finn). They are adorable and just as quirky as their mom and dad.
2. My career: I never knew what I wanted to be when I grew up and, considering what a terrible student I was for my associate’s degree, I definitely never expected to work on a college campus. However, finding this awesome career option where I get to provide customer service to students who are taking steps to change their lives is rewarding, fun, and a great use of my creativity.
3. How weird I am (Can I count that as an accomplishment?): I like being different. I fully support everyone showing off what makes them unique and believe that the world is a better place if we embrace our peculiarities.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Kat – I love cats. This is a lame response, but I have nothing better. Besides my love for cats they’ll notice that I have a very loud laugh, I love bright colors, my love for houseplants is almost tied with my love for cats, and my idea of “professional business attire” includes facial piercings, visible tattoos, lopsided haircuts, and Fluevog shoes.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I might consider brushing up on my bassoon playing… it’s been 7 years, but I keep telling myself that I’ll get back into playing bassoon if I ever find the time. (I also say this about knitting, scrapbooking, photography, learning how to quilt, jewelry making…)

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gigantic

Rainbow

Elephants

Enjoying

Nature

Janus case information

As many of you will recall, last month the Supreme Court sent down a ruling that prevents public employers and unions from requiring bargaining unit members to pay an agency fee or representation fee. If you are a member of a bargaining unit, you may have questions about how this affects you. The Office of Financial Management has posted a very detailed list of FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) that should prove helpful in answering some of your most common questions. Please refer to the link below for more information!

OFM Janus FAQ list

New Employee Spotlight – Natalie Archer

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Natalie Archer

I am the Administrative Assistant 4 for the Continuing and Community Education Department.  Prior to this position I worked in the Transitional Studies Department at Tacoma Community College, where I found my passion for providing education to our community.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I knew that my next career step was going to be at a community college and, as I looked into Green River, it was easy to see how passionate the staff is about the community and supporting each other and students.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I typically listen to a variety of podcasts/radio shows. My favorites are TED radio hour, Lore and This American Life.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was working at an ice cream shop and Rec. Hall in high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

As much as I loved my previous position as a front desk leader working directly with students, I am very excited to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes to keep a program running smoothly.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

During my first year, I honestly hope to learn as much as I can about what each department does and offers on campus.  You can never know enough about the resources and opportunities available to both staff and students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating from The Evergreen State College with my BA
• Receiving an award from Salon Today magazine for my visual merchandising work
• Selling my first piece of art at a gallery show

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

That’s a tricky one! With a name like Natalie, it is easy to create a variety of nicknames.  The most popular one that seems to follow me is Natty.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Reenacting every scene from the original Jurassic Park movie

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Greedy

Raptors

Eat

Every

Nectarine

New Employee Spotlight – Tracy Norton

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Tracy Norton

Hello! I am the Retention Specialist for the new MESA program at GRC. Most recently I served in Peace Corps in Cambodia. Prior to that I worked at UW Tacoma in Admissions and Advising. It’s great to be at GRC and I am looking forward to getting to know the campus.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The MESA program, the students, and the trails!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Traffic updates, NPR, or music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

At 14, I worked in a concession stand at a little league ballpark. I loved it.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am most excited about the onboarding of MESA and to work with the amazing students at GRC.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I plan to spend the first year getting to know the campus and growing the MESA program.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Lip sync battle.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Go Read Everything, Everywhere-Now!

 

New Employee Spotlight – Kevin Grossman

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Kevin Grossman

I’m the newest Business Advisor with Green River’s Small Business Development Center. I love helping business owners start and grow their companies.  It is terrific being part of helping them thrive!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Who could resist being a gator? I like water, warm weather and New Orleans –
laissez le bon temps rouler!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

KNKX or podcasts

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first money I earned other than for chores was delivering the Spokesman Review newspaper.  The daily issues were pretty easy (although before sunrise except for summer), but the Sunday edition was quite a workout!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I like to help people.  There are a lot of moving parts to make a business work. I’ve done many of them over the years, from picking up trash to a number of Board positions.  I can help folks because I’ve either done or been involved with what they’re dealing with.  It is all about helping them move their businesses to the next level.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to be a great connector between the College, the general community and the business community.  It’s fun for me to get people together with related interests that might not have met otherwise, and see what great stuff comes out of those new relationships.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. I have three kids that are amazing – an accomplished chef, an incredibly engaging and effective retail store manager and an animal loving graduate student in immunology.
2. I redeveloped a 1920’s building in a tough neighborhood that is now the center of a community revival.  A couple of weeks ago the Mayor chose to have a meeting with the Governor there, instead of her office, to highlight the positives of fixing old buildings.
3. I was a college trustee for a number of years, and am very proud of the innovative programs the faculty and staff accomplished for our community!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I’ve been called the absent-minded professor.  I get so into my work that at times I forget to eat or go home at a normal time when I’m in the grove of a project.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Well, it’s not a talent for a stage – but I do enjoy making food and feeding people. I get the best feedback from my baking.  Last week I made a killer Kalamata olive bread that I took to some friends. I may have set the bar too high – I don’t know if they’ll let me visit if I don’t bring it again.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Grow Relentlessly,

Engage Everyone Nicely

Your vote counts

As we end primary season and look ahead to the November mid-term elections, we’re reminded that every vote is an important part of our democracy. For those who have had felony convictions, there can be a number of questions surrounding voter eligibility. To help determine eligibility, our local branch of the ACLU has sent us some handy guides that we would like to share with you. Below, we’ve included two versions of the same poster (English and Spanish). We hope you’ll take a look here or at aclu-wa.org/voting-rights and canivote.aclu-wa.org and share this information with anyone who has been affected by prior felony convictions.

Can I Vote – Eng

Can I Vote-Span

Happy Summer 2018!

Now that summer has officially begun, lots of us will be taking some time to enjoy travel and well-deserved “down time”. As you plan your vacations and leisure time, be sure to check out the articles and resources offered through our Employee Assistance Program. The link below will guide you to a number of informative articles to help you get the most out of your free time.

 

Travel and Leisure

Summer Hours are a-comin!

Last month, we let you know about the upcoming summer hours for campus. As a little reminder, here’s some information about what will happen beginning July 9:

• Summer hours begin the week of 09 July (the week after Independence Day).
• Summer hours run through the week of 27 August (meaning that regular hours resume the week of Labor Day).
• The summer campus hours shall be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m Monday-Thursday (our current hours are indicated here on the website: https://www.greenriver.edu/campus/).  Not all shifts will align directly with the hours as there may be personal, departmental, or support needs that fall outside of those hours.
• The default work week for all employees shall be four (4) 10 hour shifts from Monday through Thursday.  Certain departments may have needs outside of those hours and will work with employees directly to set shift expectations.
  • Employees who cannot work the four (4) 10 hour shifts should contact their direct manager and their Employee & Labor Relations person (either Barbara or Chernenko).  Employees who cannot work the shift may be defaulted to five (5) 8 hour shifts.

As a note:

• employees may request of their manager a schedule adjustment (for WFSE employees, this is 7.3 (B)(4)) at any time.  Schedule adjustments will be considered by the manager in coordination with Human Resources and may be granted if business needs can be met.
• employees may request vacation time using the same college and departmental policies and procedures in place.

New PEN form

Our updated PEN form is live! This new form includes updated hourly rates as well as updated supervisor listings. If you are managing non-permanent workers, here’s an especially important reminder: be sure to use the form at the link below! As we’ve mentioned, the PEN form is a living document and changes at least a few times during the year.

https://www.gatornet.greenriver.edu/hr/Forms/index.shtm#p.

New Employee Spotlight – Melissa Sitzenstock

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Melissa Sitzenstock

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I’m the new Curriculum Program Manager in Instructional Support. I was previously at the State Board working on the ctcLink project, missed being on a campus the entire time. Prior to that spent 14 years at Bellevue College in Enrollment Services.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The same thing that drew me to Green River to be a student: location, campus feel, the programs, and opportunities here.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

NPR

What was the very first job you ever had?

I was a housekeeper at a Victorian bed and breakfast in Port Townsend while in high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Learning processes/procedures and relationship building that is required to manage the curriculum at the college

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Become the subject matter expert in implementing change to curriculum and programs.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Travel-Been to Australia, New Zealand, British Isles (UK, Ireland, Scotland), Caribbean, Mexico, and planning more.
2. My home, I love to garden and take care of our animals (horses, dogs, cat, fish, and any wildlife running around the property).
3. The self-awareness that higher education is my passion and the opportunity to do what I love.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I don’t want to limit the creative expression of my new co-workers, but it could be anything; the crazier, the better.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My best hidden talent is my ability to sleep anywhere — on a bus, plane, boat — you name it, I can sleep there.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Growing

Restless

Eating

Everything

New

Retirement Social Recap

This past Wednesday, June 6, we celebrated 19 faculty and staff retirements at the annual Retirement Social! With over 60 faculty and staff members in attendance, we said ‘thank you’ and ‘happy trails’ to this year’s retirees. See below for some photos!

Thank you to Conference Services and all of our volunteers who helped create a warm, inviting space for our Green River family!

 

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Frontline – June 2018

As we’ve noted before, our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers us a wealth of information and opportunities to improve our lives at work and away. One of the great resources they offer is the monthly Frontline newsletter. Check the link below for this month’s informative articles!

Frontline Newsletter

New Employee Spotlight – Kerry Kwon

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Kerry Kwon

My new title is International Student Advisor. I worked in Korea for about four years. I spent my first year teaching English and the following three years helping to implement and administer an English immersion program at an elementary school. Afterwards, I worked at ELS Language Centers in Tacoma as an International Student Advisor and TOEFL Administrator. I also worked at GRC for a little over a year as a part-time advisor before accepting my new role.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I love the campus and the view of Mt. Rainier from one of the trails.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

NPR

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at Knott’s Berry Farm’s Soak City Water Park in California. I distinctively remember having to wear cargo shorts and a Hawaiian shirt to work. I mainly worked in the kitchen inside one of the food stalls.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I get to talk to students. I am excited to be a part of their incredible academic journey.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

This is actually my second year but I’d like to meet more faculty and staff members on campus. I think everyone plays an important role helping students have the most wonderful college experience. I’d love to collaborate and learn from others.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Getting married to my wife.

Buying my first home.

Going back to school and finishing graduate school.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I’m not sure. When I was young kids called me Care Bear cause it sounded like Kerry.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

How much sushi I can eat in one seating.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Games

Recreation

Enjoy

Everything

Nice

New Employee Spotlight – Su Hoon Tan

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Su Hoon Tan

I am the Director of Conference Services. Prior to this, I spent the last 4 years as the Associate Director of Operations at the Joe Crowley Student Union, University of Nevada, Reno where I managed the operations and maintenance for a 165,000sf facility including event setup, staffing, safety and security, and retail tenant management. Prior to that, I was the Programming and Marketing Coordinator for 2.5 years where I did event planning and marketing for various programs and services within the student union.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I wanted to be in the Pacific Northwest because I was attracted to the greenery and outdoor activities this area has to offer. I did a ten-day road trip from Reno to Bellingham and back, exploring different parts of Oregon and Washington, and fell in love with western Washington. When the Director opening came up, it seemed like a good match since I met all the minimum and preferred qualifications. It was also an advancement opportunity in my professional career. I was ready for a change and decided to take a chance and applied for the job!  I am thrilled to join Green River College.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Usually it’s NPR, but sometimes I also listen to indie music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Teaching people how to put on contact lenses as a Johnson & Johnson sales promoter at vision centers! (Vision care in Malaysia is VERY different than in the US!)

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Learning about Green River College and its processes and procedures of operation. I only have experience in a traditional public four-year institution, so I am excited to be in a different environment.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Build relationships with colleagues on campus, provide leadership to the Conference Services department and implement positive changes in our processes and procedures.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

First person in my family to graduate from college (and earn a master’s degree), seeing some of my students become my professional colleagues within student affairs, and the only debt I ever had is a mortgage.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Thief of joy – because I can be brutally honest! I am very practical and efficient in my interactions and approach, there’s no point beating around the bush and wasting time!

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Take me to a “All-You-Can-Eat” meal.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Ready

Eat

Every

Nougat!

New Employee Spotlight – Ariana Hoyt

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Ariana Hoyt

I am the new HR Consultant 2 for Human Resources! After a few tough years finding the right fit, I attended Green River College and received my AA. I transferred to Boise State University where I earned my BA in Communications with an emphasis in Organizational and Relational Organization. While attending school at BSU, I worked in Payroll and Personnel Processing and eventually transitioned to Human Resource Services where I discovered my passion for working in higher education. I continued to serve BSU and worked for the College of Business and Economics in Advising Services, but homesickness finally set in, and I made my way back to Washington State where I worked in a temp position for Human Resources at Confluence Health. I am excited to be back in higher education!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Like many employees that currently work here, I am a Green River alumnus. I had a very pleasant experience on campus after many months of feeling discouraged and worried about my future. I was planning on moving to Seattle, WA and happened to find the exact position I was searching for, it was icing on the cake that it happened to be my old college.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

This might sound totally mushy, but I like to talk to my boyfriend on the car ride to work, or my parents. If nobody is available for a chat, I listen to NPR or 98.1 classical music for something soothing before the daily grind.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Any Washington State University alums will recall a little calzone place in Pullman named Sella’s. I worked as a waitress/cashier there before my first year of college. I smelled like pizza after every shift. I can’t decide if that’s wonderful or not.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

That I am serving an institution that provided me the resources and skills I needed to feel that I could be a successful and hardworking person in life. I think it’s a wonderful transition that I left this college to pursue my dream of earning my BA and that I can return and offer everything I have learned.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would love to develop a process or system for something that may not be running very smoothly or that needs polishing. I would love to complete a big project to help things run more smoothly in the HR department.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from college and having my family see me walk. I genuinely did not know if I would ever make it to graduation! Buying my first car, my Subaru Outback which I have had for close to ten years. And lastly, paying my very first student loan bill!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Usually, folks at the office start calling me “Ari”, an abbreviation of my first name. People have always naturally called me Ari.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I’m really good at imitating voices and accents. I have very bad stage fright, so this is definitely a hidden talent!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Go Rock Everything Energetically Now!

 

2018 CAP Graduation

On behalf of The Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:

On Friday, June 8 from 6-9pm, we invite you to come join The Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Green River Diversity & Equity Council for the 4^th Annual ODEI CAP Graduation & GDEC Banquet! We’ll be celebrating our CAP students and their personal milestones of graduation or transferring. This is also a time to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our GDEC members this academic year. To RSVP or for more information, please contact Ben Lealofi at blealofi@greenriver.edu.

Classified Staff Open House

On behalf of the Classified Staff Training and Development Committee:

On Wednesday, June 6 from 12:30-1:30pm, the Classified Staff Training & Development Committee is holding an Open House.  We invite all classified staff members to stop by the Rainier Room* in the Student Affairs Building during their lunch break for a treat – cookies, coffee, soda, and juice.  While you are there, you can learn more about what the college can do for you as part of your training and development. We will also share how you can help the committee in its important work that goes beyond training and development – food drives, college spirit events and more!

*The Rainier Room is located on the second floor of the Student Affairs building. Take the second, right-hand hallway and enter the first room to your right.

New Employee Spotlight – Richard Nattinger

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Richard Nattinger

I am the new IT Specialist 3. I was previously the System Administrator for Children’s Friend, a non-profit specializing in assisting at-risk children and families in Providence, RI. Before that, I worked for Atrion (now a part of Carousel Industries) as a member of their Workforce Agility team, specializing in staff augmentation for data center roles.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I received the foundation for the skills that I currently have from a state college in Florida and have always been thankful for the care that the staff took in setting me up for success. When I saw this job posting I thought that I would be happiest if I could give back in some way to the state college system and am very happy that I was selected for this role. I look forward to supporting the staff here in making success stories like mine.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

My radio has been broken for a while, but sometimes I will put on some J-pop, classic rock, or some alt rock. I’ve been on a bit of a Hamilton kick lately too.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked in a small pizza shop in Saint Augustine, FL as a dishwasher and was eventually promoted to preparing food.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m excited to work with such a large team and to help learn about the specific challenges we face in this environment. I like to be a part of the solution, so I look forward to helping the team tackle them!

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Professionally, I would like to get comfortable with the environment this first year. Personally, I would like to get established in the area and get back into the classroom to begin working towards my Masters.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I am very proud that I have been able to find a career that fits me and that gives me the opportunity to help people with my knowledge and skills.

I am proud that I have made such great friends that they are willing to help me make a crazy 3000 mile move so painlessly.

I am proud of how I left my previous job in a better place than I found it.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I like to let the nicknames find me. They strike me as a kind of badge that you earn. Hopefully I get one for something positive, but even the ones you earn from something negative have wonderful lessons attached.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Maybe finishing my girlfriend’s sentences for her? We are good at it, but I’m sure anyone who spends that much time with someone else gets that way.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green River Encourages Energetic Neurons

New Employee Spotlight – Jacob Church

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Jacob Church

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I just started working as a Data Analyst with the Office of Institutional Effectiveness. This is my first job in higher education. In my spare time, I’m also working on a statistics research project which will complete the requirements for my M.S. in Mathematical Sciences from University of West Florida. Prior to that, I earned my B.S. in Computer Science and Systems from University of Washington in 2012. For my most recent job, I worked as a laser engraver.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Everything about the job and the college just seemed like such a great fit.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

It depends on my mood.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first real job was unloading trucks at a Goodwill production plant in Tacoma.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

It’s hard to say because everything is so exciting. I work with great people, and the work is challenging and rewarding at the same time. There’s so much to learn and there are so many interesting projects to work on!

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to learn as much about the college and the data as possible.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I can think of two, graduating from University of Washington, and quitting smoking (4 years next month).

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

The new guy.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I don’t usually step into the spotlight.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Respect

Earn

Everything

#NoTime2Sleep

Green River Summer Camps

Summer is so close, you can almost feel it! If you’re a parent (or parent adjacent), Green River offers a few summer camps that may be just the thing for you. All three Green River College campuses are offering summer day-camps with topics that range from Lego robotics and STEM to theater. As an incentive, there are a few ways to get at 10% discount on enrollments! Click the link below to find out how you can get your child involved.

Summer Kids’ Camps at Green River College

New Employee Spotlight – Shannon Percell

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Shannon Percell

I am the new Director of Athletics and Recreation and I’m so excited to be here at Green River!  I’ve spent the last 10 years in Northern California, most recently working at Sonoma State University.  During my time at Sonoma State I wore many hats.  I spent a number of years as the women’s soccer assistant coach then transitioned to administrative side of athletics where I spent time as the assistant, associate and most recently the interim Director of Athletics.  Prior to arriving in California I coached soccer at the University of Idaho, the University of Montana and Seattle University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

After spending time as the Interim Director of Athletics at Sonoma State University, I knew I was ready to take the next step in my career and become an Athletics Director.  In my search for this sort of work I came across the opening here at Green River.  As I was researching Green River College I began to fall in love with what it had to offer.  During my time interviewing, I was amazed by the people here.  Both students and employees were so welcoming.  I knew I found a place to call home.  Having a passion for athletics and a love for fitness, this position was the best of both worlds allowing me to work in both athletics and recreation.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a little bit of everything.  I love trivia so I’m drawn to the morning quizzes on the various stations.  I also channel surf to find songs I like.  I don’t have a favorite genre of music so it’s easy to find something good to listen to.  I used to live five minutes from work so the commute is something new to me but I’ve been enjoying it.  It allows me time to think and relax.

What was the very first job you ever had?

When I was young I used to mow my neighbor’s lawn for $5.  It seemed like such a great job to a young kid back then but looking back it was a big yard (front and back) so I definitely earned my money :).

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m excited to work with a more diverse population of students.  I have enjoyed my first few days in the RAC getting to know the students and student-athletes.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I’d love to build stronger relationships between athletics and other departments on campus.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I am proud of my three sons (Owen, 8, Duncan, 6 and Parker, 3).  They challenge me to be the best parent I can be.  I have really missed them in the transition as they have stayed behind in California to finish school.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Former coworkers have either called me Sha-nay nay or Schmannon.  I think by calling me those names it brought a lighthearted atmosphere to the office environment.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My kids seem to think I’m great at telling jokes.  They always laugh no matter how bad they are.  I’ll admit that my jokes are really corny but that’s all I can think of for a talent.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get invoved

Respect one another

Encourage others

Excellence everyday

Never stop growing

New Employee Spotlight – Ruth Mueller

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Ruth Mueller

My new title is tenure track Ethnomusicology Instructor for the Department of Music and Theater. For those of you that are wondering, ethnomusicology is an interdisciplinary field that engages with the study of music in the cultural context. My work as a musician and ethnomusicologist has allowed me to travel to many different countries and to live on three different continents. Through my Ph.D. (University of Sheffield, UK) my research focused on South Korean traditional music, cultural preservation, gender, and identity. As part of my new position I will be starting a Korean drumming ensemble. Keep an eye (and an ear) out for us!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Ethnomusicologists in university programs usually focus on either a variety of coursework for general education that uses music as a tool to discuss and experience culture and identity or it focuses on graduate teaching in the methodological approaches to the field. As someone that is dedicated to the former I wanted to be at an institution that specializes in this kind of teaching and where my work would be the primary focus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to NPR. I think that it is incredibly common among musicians not to listen to music when driving or as a background activity. It is hard for my brain not to focus on music when it is playing. When you work with music all day, listening to spoken word on the drive is a good way to transition.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first official job was working at the Muny Theater in St. Louis, Missouri. I was always into music and theater and while I wasn’t nearly good enough at fifteen to audition, I did get a job in the dining pavilion busing tables before each show. I got to see most of the shows for free and was able to wander around the stage construction and costume areas and what not. In spite of the sweltering heat and brutal humidity of St. Louis summers, I did this job for three summers and loved it.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am excited about bringing a new field of study to the college! Ethnomusicology is such an interdisciplinary field. I look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues around campus and creating some new and exciting coursework.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I will have a drumming ensemble starting in autumn quarter. My goal in the first year is to create a space for music and sound as a way to experience the rich cultural diversity of our campus.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

-Being a generous and kind human being with strong and meaningful relationships

-Being a fearless and adventurous traveler

-Investing in my education. I love being a student and I hope curiosity helps me to be an effective teacher.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Oh, it would probably be something awful like “Sally Sunshine.” I am not always bright and happy, of course, but I approach my work with excitement and with a smile on my face. Even on tough mornings I think it is important to greet people with warmth and create a sense of community.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

This is a bit of a tricky question for those of us in the Department of Music and Theater. We are used to displaying our talents, but hidden talents are a different story. I guess I would make a really tasty chocolate cake. I would offer to do it blindfolded, but we all know that would be a huge mess. I might be talked into doing it while hopping on one foot or while playing a kazoo.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G – generous

R – refreshing

E – engaging

E – exciting

N – nurturing

New Employee Spotlight – Kristine Schroeder

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Kristine Schroeder

I am the Director for the new MESA Program at Green River. I most recently worked as the Director for SHINE: Seattle’s Hub for Industry-driven Nanotechnology Education, but I started my career in higher education as a Lab Technician for the nanotechnology, chemistry, and anatomy/physiology labs. I have also had the opportunity to teach a few chemistry, nanotechnology, and continuing ed courses. Before higher education, I worked at a credit union and bank for several years in member services and as a loan officer.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

When I went back to school for my science degree, I was in the MESA program at a community college and university. I attribute the support of the community college system and MESA as major factors for my success. I found out that WA MESA was expanding its community college program, around the same time the project I was working on was ending, so I jumped at the opportunity to apply here.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I rotate between a few things, usually reggaeton, funk, or jazz stations on Google Play. I also want to become fluent in Spanish, so sometimes I work through Spanish lessons on Audible.

What was the very first job you ever had?

In high school, I worked at the first Cold Stone Creamery in San Diego County.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

My position aligns closely with what I am passionate about, which doesn’t happen a lot in life, so that’s pretty awesome.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to make good connections across the campus and recruit a strong group of students into the MESA Program that will help establish a supportive community culture.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Earning my college degree; I am the first in my immediate family and possibly the only one in my super-extended family to earn a science degree.
• Having the courage to start over, both in my professional and personal life.
• Being a positive influence on my little cousins.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Tammy in HR has already started calling me the “Crow Lady” but she is still searching for a more appropriate name. If I had to choose, it would be a toss-up between two nicknames:

• Crow Master (in training)
• Ultimate Neighborhood Cat Wrangler

I think these names are self-explanatory. J

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I don’t have an answer for this one.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Greatness

Requires

Effort

Education (and)

Never giving up

 

Meet the VPI Finalists!

Next week, and the following week, Green River College will host four finalists for the Vice President of Instruction! Each candidate will have a full day of interviews on campus, followed by an hour-long Campus Forum at the Bleha Performing Arts Center. All employees are welcome and encouraged to attend any of the campus forums. Meet our finalists:

Sachi Horback

 

 

 

Campus Forum: Wednesday, May 2, 2018  2pm-3pm

 

 

Rebecca Williamson

 

 

 

Campus Forum: Thursday, May 3, 2018  2pm-3pm

 

 

Joyce Hammer

 

 

Campus Forum: Tuesday, May 8, 2018  2pm-3pm

 

 

Rolita Ezeonu

 

 

 

Campus Forum: Wednesday, May 9, 2018  2pm-3pm

 

 

 

You can find out more information about each candidate here:

Vice President of Instruction Search

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer Hours are on the way!

Though we’re enjoying some fantastic spring weather, our minds can’t help but turn to (what we hope will be) an even better summer season! With that in mind, here are the guidelines for summer hours this year:

• Summer hours begin the week of 09 July (the week after Independence Day).
• Summer hours run through the week of 27 August (meaning that regular hours resume the week of Labor Day).
• The campus hours (current hours as indicated here on the website: https://www.greenriver.edu/campus/) shall be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Not all shifts will align directly with the hours as there may be personal, departmental, or support needs that fall outside of those hours.
• The default work week for all employees shall be four (4) 10 hour shifts from Monday through Thursday.  Certain departments may have needs outside of those hours and will work with employees directly to set shift expectations.
  • Employees who cannot work the four (4) 10 hour shifts should contact their direct manager and their Employee & Labor Relations person (either Barbara or Chernenko).  Employees who cannot work the shift may be defaulted to five (5) 8 hour shifts.

As a note:

• employees may request of their manager a schedule adjustment (for WFSE employees, this is 7.3 (B)(4)) at any time.  Schedule adjustments will be considered by the manager in coordination with Human Resources and may be granted if business needs can be met.
• employees may request vacation time using the same college and departmental policies and procedures in place.

New Employee Spotlight – Melanie Willers

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Melanie Willers

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the Administrative Assistant I in the Facilities Department. I have a lot of variety in my professional background: Administrative Assistant at John L. Scott Real Estate, driver for Access, School Bus Driver, Special Needs Para educator, Parts Data Coordinator, Customer Service Representative, and Customer Service Coordinator and Panasonic.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I felt I was ready to get back into working a full time job and I have been a student at Green River a few times and really liked the campus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Usually I listen to Hair Nation or Ozzy’s Boneyard on Sirius XM but once in a while I will listen to Beatles Radio or Jazz.

What was the very first job you ever had?

The very first job was cleaning horse stalls after school on a farm in Maple Valley

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I enjoy learning new things and research to get things straightened out and I get to do that. The people are fantastic and I enjoy coming to work every day.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Getting to know the names of all the people I work with.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Having my awesome 3 children, surviving cancer and buying my first house all by myself.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I have no idea

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I have no talents at all and that is not a joke

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great Dane

Rottweiler

English Mastiff

English Bulldog

Newfoundland

New Employee Spotlight – Sirena Clark

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Sirena Clark

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Program Coordinator for Continuing Education. I recently left an assignment with Kent School District where I worked as a para educator and administrative assistant throughout the district in many different programs. 

What drew you to apply to Green River?

When I noticed this job listing, it sounded like such a dynamic position that it immediately caught my attention. I absolutely love this campus. I received my AA here and fell in love with the trails, natural setting, and the culture of this college, not to mention the incredible staff.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I recently got into the habit of letting my mind wander and absorb the silence on my ride home, but occasionally I channel surf on the radio or listen to podcasts. My new favorite is Arm Chair Expert.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I actually started babysitting for my neighbors when I was nine years old and that continued to be my job until I turned 14 and started working at a boarding facility for horses.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I think the opportunity to interact with so many different people,  the broad scope of what I do, and the access to constant learning.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to be highly involved in growing our program at Tahoma High School and Regional Learning Center. It is in my backyard and I see so much potential for Green River CE to be a positive force in this particular community.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Going back to school later in life and finishing my AA.
• Building friendships and relationships that are sustaining and meaningful.
• Never giving up on my goals.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Well at the moment it is Clarky, a result of my first name sounding too much like another co-workers.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would faint back stage so I guess we will never know.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Genuine

Riveted

Engagement in

Education

Nourishes

 

 

 

New Employee Spotlight – Jennifer Joy

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background. 

Jennifer Joy

I am the incoming International Recreation Coordinator! Before coming to Green River, I was engaged in two positions abroad from August 2016 through November 2017. First, I taught high school English at a Nanjing University-affiliated public high school in China, and then continued on to a Fulbright English teaching grant in Malaysia.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I first zoned in on Green River when I learned how strong their international programs were for a school of this size and caliber. Once I saw a position offering the chance to work with international students in sports? I was locked in!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I enjoy sitting in the quiet peace that is unique to mornings for the first portion of my drive. In the last ten minutes before arriving at GRC, I’ll probably turn to a Spotify or Pandora playlist of mine.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first position was teaching English at a Nanjing University-affiliated public high school in Nanjing, China.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

While maintaining the sports that we regularly provide (basketball, volleyball, soccer), I’m excited to seek out special programming and tournaments such as fun runs or Frisbee tournaments. I’m also excited to finally learn more about soccer, since it seems like everyone in my life just happens to be a huge fan.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I expect that it will take a year for me to have a complete handle on this job, and an understanding of everything that the college offers. I’d love to just really know all the ins and outs of Green River.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. I was very proud to gain my bachelor’s degree in Chinese language and history. I was a heritage speaker at home during my childhood, but formally studying the language really brought an additional layer of understanding and appreciation.
2. My experience with Fulbright Malaysia was unforgettable! Being awarded the fellowship in the first place was huge, but then living through that year in a rural and very conservative area of Malaysia was an enriching experience.
3. I’m proud of the relationship I have with my 2 sisters. They are my best friends and I’m always looking for the next chance to see them in person.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Probably Joy… time and time again, people continuously do not know which is my first and last name. But I like both anyway, so it doesn’t bother me!

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I imagine I would be in more of a supportive role… Someone is really experienced at baking cakes? I’m the taste tester. Someone is really knowledgeable about trivia? I’ll act as the opposition to lift their performance higher. Someone is awesome at darts? I offer myself as tribute to hold the target…

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green River Excellence Entering Neighborhoods!

IT Tip: Accessibility in MS Office

Here at Green River, inclusion is a hallmark of our mission! With that in mind, we would like to introduce a few ways that you can make some of your work even more inclusive. Thanks to the IT department, we’re now aware that the Microsoft office suite offers new alternatives to make emails, documents, workbooks and Powerpoint presentations accessible. Check the link below for lessons on how to create better content that is accessible to all!

Microsoft Office Accessibility

Frontline: EAP News and Helpful Hints

Our Employee Assistance Program continues to be a wonderful source of helpful information! This month’s EAP newsletter offers tips about a number of issues including:

• Distracted driving
• Social media
• Workplace defensiveness
• Procrastination

Click the link below to take advantage of more ways to improve your work relationships and beyond!

EAP Newsletter

New Employee Spotlight – Heather Foss

Heather Foss

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hi! My name is Heather Foss.  I’m the newest member of the Green River College Foundation Team, and serve as the Development Specialist who manages the scholarship process and alumni relations!  For the last 14 years I worked at another community college, and served in every position within the Foundation during that time!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I’m super excited to be here!  I am alum of Green River and I’ve always lived in this community, growing up in Covington and living in Maple Valley for several years.  The prospect of carrying on the great work of scholarships, and building up our alumni program seemed like the perfect opportunity!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

My commute is pretty short compared to what it used to be! – now I either catch a little Kiro Radio news or 96.5 on the way in!

What was the very first job you ever had?

Working in the x-ray department at Valley Orthopedic.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m particularly excited about re-launching our alumni program and really building on the great work that has already been done.  I’m also excited about our new scholarship software that makes applying for scholarships easier for students!

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would love to build up our alumni program; hold our first-of-many alumni events; and lay the groundwork, for years to come, as one of the best examples of a community college alumni program!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Can we make it four?  I have four great kiddos who I’m really proud of!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

OMG I’m too new – I have no idea!

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Maybe I would sing if it was the right song and could work up the courage to do it!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green

River

Education

Everyone

Needs

College Climate Survey – UPDATE

On behalf of the Institutional Effectiveness team, we’d like to thank everyone who participated in the NILIE Team’s PACE Survey! Of the 977 employees who received the survey, we had 503 total respondents: 228 faculty members, 238 staff members, and 37 administrative staff. In late April, we’ll have the full survey results of your thoughts on how our campus is doing!

Training Tip: Information Technology

On behalf of the IT team, we’d like to remind you of the IT training resources available to all Green River employees! You can access a wealth of information, via the SANS website, about best practices as well as security. With so many data thieves attempting to steal everything from personal information to institutional information, these training modules are a great way to keep our information safe.

The modules are brief (no longer than 6 minutes) and usually feature a quick quiz at the end to check your knowledge. We encourage you to take a moment to check out all of the offerings and especially the data security module. Check out the links below!

IT Training Videos

Data Security Training

New Employee Spotlight – Jaime Sterio

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Jaime Sterio

I am the Director of Recruitment & Outreach

After graduating from WSU (GO COUGS!) in 2009 I became an AmeriCorps member at Lake Washington Technical College. Once my term of service ended I moved back to Eastern Washington and worked at a winery in Benton City, where I learned the important tour guide skill of talking and walking backwards at the same time.  After mastering that I moved back to this side of the state and was Lake Washington Institute of Technology’s Coordinator of Outreach & Recruitment for the past 6 years (for over 4 years I was their only recruiter).

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Several reasons; 1) I live in Auburn and have been commuting to Kirkland for 4 years so I was ready to work closer to home, 2) I was ready for a new challenge and Green River happened to have a position open in my area of expertise.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Depends on my mood, but usually something in the genre of alternative or pop.  Lately I’ve been listening to Grace VanderWaal, The Score, or the soundtrack to The Greatest Showman.

What was the very first job you ever had?

A bank teller at a credit union

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working for a larger college; more people for me to collaborate with

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Organizing an all-college open house

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from college, buying a home, and loving who I am

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Maybe, DisNerd – Disney nerd.  I love movies in general but I am a Disney/Pixar fan for sure.  I follow podcasts and blogs about Disney/Pixar that talk about changes in the parks, upcoming movie tidbits, new collectibles coming out, etc.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can pogo stick.  It’s been a while but, I can jump rope on a pogo stick, bounce a basketball, and pogo with no hands (not all at once, of course)

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators

Revolutionize

Education

Experiences

Naturally

New Employee Spotlight – Cathy Alston

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Cathy Alston

My title is, Director of Workforce Education. I have been working in Higher Education for the past eight years. While in Higher Education, I have worked in different capacities throughout Student Services. I managed a Veterans Resource Center for Hopkinsville Community College, KY. Upon moving to the NW, I have worked at South Puget Sound Community College as the Military Outreach Specialist and Veterans Certifying Official. Later, for the same institution, I worked as an Educational Planner and managed the Worker Retraining Grant. In addition as an adjunct professor, I taught a Human Development course called “Enhancing Student Success.”

Prior to working in Higher Education, much of my professional life has been working with military service-members and their families on military installations. I hold a Master’s Degree in Education, and an undergraduate degree in Communication Arts.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Green River College offers a wide range of degree options for students. Because of my involvement with Workforce Education, I was impressed with the quality of the short-term degrees and certificate programs that could result in high-wage employment for students. I was equally impressed that Green River College also offered Bachelors of Applied Science degrees. Green River College is committed to helping students achieve not just a job, but a career.

However, academics was not the only draw to this institution. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion were more than just words. It is the culture of the campus, from the President’s Office all the way down the organizational ladder. As a person of color, this is extremely important to me, not just for myself professionally but for the students we are here to help towards completion.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

My go-to is NPR. Sometimes to switch things up, I will listen to leadership/management books through Amazon’s Audible.  The most recent books that I have listened to on my commute from Olympia are, “Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead” and “Who Moved My Cheese?”  TED Talks are also another option that I will sometimes choose.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was working for the YMCA as a camp counselor for the summer.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Aside from working with a great team, I am excited about the opportunity that I have to affect change. I have always desired a position that would allow me to make a difference in an impactful way. This position affords me the opportunity to be that agent of transformative change, not only for students but also for the organization.

What is one thing you would love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

During my first year, I believe it is more important to establish a collaborative culture with my colleagues across campus disciplines. I choose this as opposed to establishing processes or increasing FTE’s because all these are possible, plus much more, through teamwork and collaboration.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I am most proud of my marriage of 33 years, my two wonderful children (who are living happy and productive lives), and completing grad school while my husband was deployed to a war zone. I had to balance school and being a single mom for a year.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Queen. Workforce Education is my kingdom and I run it!

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

No hidden talents. I’ve been told that no one tells a story quite like me.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

GROWING

READY

EXCELLENCE

ENERGIZED

NURTURING

New Employee Spotlight – Timothy Henry

Timothy Henry

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Senior Director of Financial Services; I am a licensed CPA (thank you, Susan Davis) and have about 20 years of public sector accounting experience.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Having worked here before, I knew it was a great environment with a lot of energy and dedicated staff. This position is just the right fit at the right time.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Contemporary Urban Folk Rock Fusion

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was picking blueberries. I may have stuck with it but ended up consuming a lot of my earnings.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Leading a great team of people.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Clean financial statement audit

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My 30+ year marriage
• My relationships with the great people I have met along the journey
• My BA, MBA, CPA—first in the family to go to college!

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Carrying a tune in a bucket—in other words, none

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great

Reasoning

Eventually

Ends

Nonsense

New Employee Spotlight – Zachary Williams

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

International Student Advisor.

Zachary Williams

I worked in the International Programs office as a drop-in advisor for a little more than a year before moving to my current position.  Previous to GRC, I lived and worked in Japan for eight years.  First, I spent 3 years as an Assistant Language Teacher on the JET (Japanese Exchange and Teaching) Program in Shiga, Japan. Following that, I spent 5 years as the Director of International Education at Chuo University private high school in Yokohama, Japan.

Needless to say, I love Japan, and I love education!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was an exchange student myself when I was in high school and college.  When I saw the opportunity to give back to this community as an advisor, I knew it was my calling!  It has been a long road, but I’m so excited where it has taken me.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I actually have only driven to work 2 times in the last year and a half.  Normally I ride my bike, or I bring my bike on the bus and ride home.  Regardless, I listen to a variety of Japanese bands (Jam Project, AKB48, Linked Horizon) and also enjoy listening to movie sound tracks (Gladiator, The Last Samurai, pretty much anything Hans Zimmer).

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was as a paper boy.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The opportunity to have an impact on the lives of my students is the most exciting.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would love to learn as much as I can about the entire process of recruiting, educating, and ultimately transferring our great students, and how I can improve that process for all parties.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I’ve learned to speak and write Japanese at a high level, although I still have a long ways to go.  I’ve educated myself about personal finance to a high degree, so I know how money works.  Finally, I’ve developed a philosophy where I don’t really let life get me down even when things aren’t going my way.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I can’t even imagine. J

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I’m pretty good at Rocket League. J

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great Respect Eventually Earns Notice

 

New Employee Spotlight – Elizabeth Rangel

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Elizabeth Rangel

• Coordinator for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion-Retention & Community Relations.
• I worked almost 5 years at Highline College in Outreach and Admissions
• Before Highline, I worked in various ways in education from Kindergarten to the University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have always been an advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. My dream is to one day be a Director of a Diversity or Multicultural Center. I was drawn by the position, but the day I walked on campus I felt like I was home.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

K-Love. My car is one of my sanctuaries and I spend a lot of time praying there.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job I had was picking raspberries in the fields when I was 14 years old.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I love people! So the most exciting part is the ability to work alongside others that are just as passionate about loving others and being able to use my strengths in helping others.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Meet others across campus and be foundationally strong in my department in order to be able to stretch, grow and develop my responsibilities in new ways.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My stronger relationship with God.

My Daughter

The blessing of seeing those that I have worked with thrive and succeed more than they thought possible.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I have been called Passion, Hope, and Light. I imagine it is because I love and encourage.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would paint.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Greatness Requires Eternal Elevation Needed

 

 

EAP Update

In December, we let you know about the new services our EAP (Employee Assistance Program) offers, including legal and financial services. We’d like to take a moment to remind you of those services as well as bring you a few updates!

• Now there’s a new website shortcut for the EAP: bit.ly/eapweb. Once you enter (or copy and paste) you’ll enter our organization code GRC to get access.
• In addition to the great resources you already know about, did you know that our EAP also offers free e-learning and online seminars? These valuable professional development trainings are available in the orange boxes just on the main page. Trainings are about 15-20 mins long and offer you the option to print your certificate of completion!

See the flyer below for more options from our Employee Assistance Program!

Classified Staff In-Service Wrap-up

This past Tuesday, the Classified Staff Training and Development Committee (CSTDC) hosted an in-service day workshop on diversity and equity. Dr. Debra Jenkins of Share the Flame, LLC led activities and discussion surrounding power, privilege and equity status in a fun and engaging atmosphere. Many of the 90 attending staff members had very positive thoughts, post-workshop.

Special thanks to the CSTDC and to VP Marshall Sampson for a fantastic day of learning and engaging! Have a look at the pictures below, including Dr. Jenkins along with the workshop participants:

Morning Session

Afternoon session

 

New Employee Spotlight – Noah Avirom

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am a Systems Administrator (IT Specialist 3). I’ve been working with computers in higher education for almost all of my working life, starting with working in my college music computer lab and recording studio. From there, I’ve moved on to bigger and better things, but I still enjoy putting my computer skills to use helping others learn.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I wanted to be in a bigger, more complex environment while still working in education; applying to Green River helped me meet those goals.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Almost always music, but beyond that it really varies based on the day, my mood, the weather… I try to listen to a diverse mix of things to keep one genre or style from getting too stale.

What was the very first job you ever had?

 

I worked as a legal assistant and sometimes computer tech for my aunt.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m really looking forward to working with a new team on new technologies in a much bigger environment than I have before.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I’d like to get to know all of the coffee shops in the area.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Achieving the Boy Scout rank of Eagle
• Graduating from college
• Being selected to perform with a Southern California honor orchestra

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Though I work with computers, I have a fair amount of musical experience; I could perform some musical selections on my main instrument family, percussion instruments.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Good

Robots

Enter

Every

Network

New Employee Spotlight – Janet Hollier

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Title:  Instructor, Software Development

Professional Background:  I was a software developer at NCR Corporation in Dayton, Ohio and Sophia-Antipolis, France for 10 years, primarily writing marketing and help desk applications.  More recently, I did a short stint as a UW research analyst working on accessible mobile applications before becoming an independent web and application developer.  Three years ago, I started teaching software development courses as an adjunct at Highline College and then at Green River College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

My former instructor, Tina Ostrander, had a strong influence on my decision to apply.  She is a fantastic ambassador for the college and its IT BAS – Software Development program, and she introduced me to the amazing faculty, staff and students with whom I now work.  Also, there’s a huge need for qualified software developers in the industry right now and I really wanted to be a part of a bachelor program that is chartered with helping to meet that need.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

KCMS SPIRIT 105.3.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I had a small house cleaning / yard work “business” when I was in high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Getting to help students learn about something that I’m passionate about — software development — and to see the skills and knowledge they develop make a positive impact in their lives.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Finding a successful, happy balance between work and play!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My three children, two of whom are at the UW and the other is a Running Start student at GRC.
• My marriage (we just celebrated our 24-year anniversary).
• Earning a Computer Science (second) BS degree at UW-Seattle while a full-time mom of three.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Maybe Indy since I’m an independent software developer from Indiana.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I love to sing. ♫

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Graphics,

Robotics &

Engineering

Enthusiasts

Network

New Employee Spotlight – Taryn Hornby

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Title: Business Advisor for the SBDC.

My background includes working as a VP in New Business Development for a subsidiary of the largest bank of the world, having my own business, being a stay at home mom and working as a DJ at a Disco.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Knowing that they were concerned about local small businesses and offered the position of Business Advisor.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Talk Radio.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Babysitter.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Helping small business owners in all forms.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to learn more about all that is available to me, whether it is GRC events or classes. Taking advantage of all the knowledge and creativity this college has to offer is exciting.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Being a mom. My integrity. Helping others.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Fun to work with. I enjoy my job and I am enthusiastic each day for the ability to help small businesses succeed and to work at GRC.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I am a business person with creative talent for helping businesses succeed. This talent does not translate well to a talent show.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G – Growth of students, businesses and employees

R – Ready for the next step

E – Education

E – Enjoyment

N – Next generation of business owners

GRC is Drug Free!

From the desk of Marshall Sampson, Vice President of Human Resources and Legal Affairs

Happy New Year and welcome back to those of you who weren’t here during the break!  Whether you were here or not, I hope that you saw my very important email regarding the Annual Drug Free Schools & Communities Act Notice for employees of Green River College.  It had all sorts of information which is now available on our website at: https://www.greenriver.edu/campus/human-resources/drug-free-schools-and-communities-act/

As a form of enticement to get our readership up, anyone who correctly responded by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, January 3^rd with the correct answers was placed in a drawing with one winner from each employee group (Full-Time Faculty, Adjunct Faculty, Classified Staff, and Exempt Staff) winning a $5 Starbucks Gift Card donated by me:

• By RCW,  it is prohibited to sell or misrepresent a substance as an illicit drug.  Any person who violates the RCW shall, upon conviction, be guilty of a CLASS C FELONY.
• The possible side effects of narcotics are euphoria, drowsiness, nausea, respiratory depression. There are eight narcotics listed.  The seventh is FENTANYL.
• The phone number for the Employee Assistance Plan is 877-313-4455.
• In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-free Schools and Communities Act (As amended in 1989), Green River college has a policy statement which reads in part, “Employees must, as a condition of working on any Green River College contract or grant, abide by the terms of this statement; and notify the employee’s supervisor not later than FIVE (5) days after any conviction for a criminal drug statute violation that occurred in the workplace.”
• Sending this email is Marshall’s ___________ part of his job.

I will admit that you all had creative answers.  Nobody got the last one correct but there were some great guesses out there.  Also, I appreciate those of you who included bonus points and other creative ways in an attempt to become one of the winners.  It may have worked.  The winners are:

Yvonne Huang – Classified

Krish Mahadevan – Faculty

Leslie Soule – Adjunct Faculty

Adrienne Palmer – Exempt

Shirley Bean – Admin

Please stop by AD-17 to pick up your gift card.

New Employee Spotlight – Brazell Carter

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

History Instructor for U.S. History and African-American Studies. I have been teaching since 2005 in the Bay Area shortly after graduating from grad school at George Washington University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I spent the greater portion of the winter of 2016 & 17 applying to various positions & I came across the posting for Green River on LinkedIn.  It was something I knew I could excel at and I figured, “Why not?”.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I either listen to KNBR 680 (Sports talk) or my iPod where I have songs & music ranging from Percy Faith to No Doubt to 2Pac.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at Burger King as a cashier in the summer of ‘94 when I was 17 years old. I met & worked with some great people, but wasn’t a huge fan of working there.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Getting to know my new colleagues and finally having my own office!  I’m also looking forward to getting to know the students of GRC.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Being able to replicate the success I had w/ my students at Diablo Valley College & Las Positas College, w/ the students at GRC & lose the “new” instructor label, so to speak.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My daughter, Grace
• Coming up w/ original research for my thesis that impressed James McPherson
• Being an inspiration for students I have instructed

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Pop Culture because of my knowledge of TV shows, music & movies (& deep love for them!)

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Playing my bass guitar and my impersonations of some famous figures.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green

River – an

Energizing

Exciting

New beginning

New Employee Spotlight – Marc Barrington

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Integrated Reading and Writing Instructor.

I returned to teaching four years ago after having a career in higher-education publishing.  I first taught for an organization that takes college classes into Washington State Prisons.  That work was especially rewarding as people inside prison are often hungry for learning.  I also taught at South Seattle Colleges, facilitated writing workshops for returning veterans at the VA Puget Sound, and have done instructional design work for the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Two things: the integrated reading and writing position spoke directly to my experience and interests, and I’d visited Green River when I worked in publishing, and always got a good feeling about both the students and instructors.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a lot of NPR  in the morning.  Other than that, it might be a mix of 80s music, punk rock, or even some newer hip hop.  My kids are beginning to influence my tastes.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I think the first job I ever had was at a video store, which I loved because it meant I had access to a lot of movies.  Something we take for granted these days with streaming services.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The courses I teach are at the beginning of a student’s college career.  I love the opportunity of being able to provide practical tools and strategies for success that they’ll (hopefully) apply throughout college, and likely beyond in their professional lives.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to focus on learning more about the Green River student community, and ensure the courses I develop/teach respond to, and serve their needs.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I’d probably make everyone a meal.  Maybe Mejadra, a lentil and rice dish I like to cook that I learned from a cookbook called Jerusalem.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Ready for

Engaging

Education

Now

Winter Weather Alerts

It’s that time of the year again when we all hope that mother nature does her magic so we can get a few days “off” to cozy up to a warm fire or spend some time with family. While we work hard with our fingers crossed, please keep in mind the following information when the weather changes.

 Severe Inclement Weather – This term signifies extreme/significant weather conditions that may have an impact on travel to or from any campus location. This term will be used on days when weather conditions either significantly worsen as the day progresses or are anticipated to improve as the day progresses.

 Campus open – This term indicates that one (1) or more campus locations are open to the public and that employees should be either at their place of duty or on their way. Specific department hours are set by the department supervisors.

 Late start – The college resumes normal operations at a time later than the usual posted hours of operation.

 Early closure* – The college ends normal operations at a time earlier in the day than the normal posted hours of operation for the college. The only personnel that will be allowed to remain on campus are employees listed as essential personnel.

*This should not be confused with suspended operations as early closure does not necessarily prevent work from being accomplished. Suspended operations has a catastrophic effect on most employees’ ability to perform their duties.

 Campus closed – This term is used to signify that one (1) or more campus locations are closed to the public and that employees should either be departing or already departed from their place of duty. The only personnel that will be allowed on campus are employees listed as essential personnel.

 Suspended Operations – The President or the President’s designee(s) may declare a temporary suspension of any or all College operations at one (1) or more campus locations due to an emergency situation that adversely affects College operations, public health, or the well-being and safety of employees and students.

Events which might require suspending operations include, but are not limited to:

• Severe weather or natural disaster.
• Spread of a communicable disease.
• Fire or related hazard.
• Immediate threat to the safety of the campus community.
• Damage to or failure of GRC infrastructure, equipment or mechanical systems.

 First day of total suspended operations – Term used in conjunction with applicable state law and collective bargaining agreements that deals directly with compensation

Essential Personnel – Essential personnel are employees who are required to report to work even when (1) or more campus locations is declared closed because of suspended operations.

Campus location – Each campus will be referred by its location if not all locations are affected. If all locations are affected, notice will refer to all locations as “the college”.

New Employee Assistance Services!

YOUR EAP, WASHINGTON STATE EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM HAS ADDED SEVERAL GREAT NEW SERVICES TO SUPPORT YOU IN YOUR WORK AND LIFE NEEDS.

In addition to the free counseling and consultation already available to you, EAP now offers free legal consultation and financial counseling services, as well as a comprehensive work-life website that includes resources, articles, webinars and e-learning, financial calculators, legal documents, self-search provider databases for eldercare, childcare, and more.

All of these services can be accessed 24/7 by visiting the web portal and entering our organization code: GRC. A legal or financial counselor can also be reached anytime by calling 1-888-728-1408. If you have any questions, please contact the EAP by visiting www.eap.wa.gov.

When you visit the site, you will notice that there are two buttons on the top left of the page describing the legal and financial benefits. As you explore the website, you will find thousands of resources available by topic.

Visit the EAP web portal today to learn what new features are available and what is covered!

New Employee Spotlight – Lina Pittser

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hi, I’m a new Tenure-Track English Composition instructor at Green River. The year I graduated with a B.A. in English in my native country of Chile, I worked as an exchange instructor of Spanish at Central Washington University. While there I obtained a Master’s degree in English Literature and worked in several community colleges until I was hired by Green River College 13 years ago.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I applied as an adjunct at Green River for its proximity to my new home back then. I stayed for its people, both students and colleagues; for its beauty; and for its excellence.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Anything NPR, podcasts like Fresh Air, StoryCorps, Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me! And lots of books.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked as a tour guide at a museum in Frutillar, Chile.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with wonderful colleagues, both Full-time and adjunct. Being more directly involved in decisions concerning the school, such as committees, curricular decisions, etc.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Tenure!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My children!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

They already do. My birth name is Carolina, but in grad school my classmates started calling me Lina because my name was often mispronounced as the salad dressing (Catalina) by those who found rolling their r’s a bit of a challenge.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can knit scarves for the show judges!

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great

Rad

Excellent

Evergreen

Nonpareil!

New Employee Spotlight – Nelson Phouphakone

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am a One-Year Temporary Math Instructor.  I got my Bachelors in Electrical Engineering at University of Washington and Masters in Mathematics at Washington State University.  After my Masters program, I worked as a part-time instructor for North Seattle College, South Seattle College, Highline College and of course, Green River College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have been a part-time instructor for Green River College for 9 years.  I love the environment around the school.  Sometimes, I walk on the trails in the forest.  However, what I love the most is the atmosphere of the Math department.  When I come to work, I don’t feel I go to a job.  I feel like I am coming back home.  Everyone is like a family.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I like listening to Chinese songs and radio 106.9.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I was a PC technician.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I think the most exciting thing about the job is I have a lot of time getting to know my students and to helping them when they need me.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to become a full-time instructor.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Receiving my Masters degree

Marrying my wife

Becoming a math instructor

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Polo man, since I love to wear Polo shirts.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I could be a singer.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green River Excellent Education iNstitution

New Employee Spotlight – Candis Eckert

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My name is Candis Eckert, and I am the new Director of TRiO. Prior to this role, I served as a TRiO program manager for a nonprofit organization in Tacoma working with the Tacoma, Bethel, and Franklin Pierce school districts.  In addition, I also served as a K-12 teacher in the public school system for over four years.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Green River was an appealing campus community for many reasons.  For one thing, the campus is extremely lush and beautiful!  It’s definitely a calm and peaceful atmosphere.  More importantly, I appreciated the fact that Green River is extremely focused on being student-centered.  In addition, knowing that diversity and equity was on the forefront of the college’s mission was something that really resonated with me and the work I hope to do.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I’m a bit embarrassed to admit but I listen to a podcast that discusses paranormal and crime activity around the world.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I had two first jobs at the same time – one was as a front desk associate for a children’s museum and the other was a cashier at Panera.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

There are a few reasons why it’s exciting for me. First and foremost, I’m excited to work with a community of students who are hoping to pursue higher education and a path that they are passionate about.  I’ve always loved being a mentor and guide to students with regards to their academic and career journey so continuing that work here at Green River is exciting!  This position also allows for a lot of creativity and innovation so the potential possibilities are endless.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

In my first year, I would love to build many relationships with staff and faculty in the hopes of creating collaborative partnerships.  We all have the common goal of supporting our students’ success, and I think by joining forces, we can be a powerful network to create positive ripples within our student population.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My three accomplishments are:

• I’m the first in my family to graduate from a 4-year university
• I used to be the kid who thought I wasn’t smart enough and wouldn’t get far in school. Now I’m pursuing my doctorate degree and am halfway done.
• Getting this job!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Probably the snack fairy – I like to bring in treats when I can, and I’m a firm believer that food can bring people together.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would showcase my rusty piano skills. While I haven’t played in over 12 years, I used to play piano for quite some time!

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gator

Ran

Everyday

Eating

Nachos

Don’t forget No-shave November!

Last month, we told you about a way that you can help raise funds for Gators Feeding Gators (No-Shave November). While the list of shave-testants has changed a bit, you can still donate to choose who you think should be clean shaven next month! Who would you like to see with no beard? The nominees are:

Marshall Sampson, VP of Human Resources and Legal Affairs

Chernenko Wheatley, Employee and Labor Relations Manager

Joshua Ireland, Executive Assistant for the VP of Instruction

Korland Simmons, Executive Assistant for the VP of Human Resources and Legal Affairs

Matt Swenson, Director of Grants

Joshua Gerstman, Director of Philanthropy

Timm Lovitt, Dean of Instruction: Career and Technical

Vote for one of these gents with your dollars. Look for tables across campus!

Interested in joining the challenge? As an incentive, the winning “shavee” will receive a professional shave at The Art of Shaving. Who’s with us?!

New Employee Spotlight – Diana Betancourt-Macias

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

 

I am the new Program Coordinator for the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

 

I recently graduated from the University of Washington as a Political Science and American Ethnic Studies double major.

My professional background includes a lot of work with programming. From organizing a national conference to planning yearly conferences for high school students, I enjoy putting on events and working with students.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

One of my really good friends worked at Green River at the time and sent me the job posting. I looked through it and thought it would be a great fit for me. I didn’t know much about Green River but I thought it would be an awesome opportunity for me.

 

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I usually blast SZA and put her Ctrl album on repeat.

What was the very first job you ever had?

 

My very first job was being an orientation leader at the UW. I really enjoyed working with students and being able to connect with them and their families. I also got to eat delicious food every day and meet many really cool people.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I love how much I get to interact with students, especially underrepresented students, because I can personally relate to many of the things they are going through. I am also excited to work for ODEI because I have a lot of experience doing work that ties to diversity, equity and inclusion so I’m excited to put my knowledge and experience to use.

 

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

After the first year, I hope many of the students that come to our office will see me as someone they can trust and come to when they need help. Whether it’s having a conversation or coming in to ask about resources, I hope students feel safe and comfortable coming to me.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

 

• Getting into college with $80,000 in scholarships
• Graduating college
• Planning a 700+ person national conference

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Lil’ D because I’m the youngest one in the office.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

 

I would perform a spoken word poem. It’s not much of a hidden talent though because I do performances as a side thing.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green

River’s

Energy is

Exciting and

Never-ending

New Employee Spotlight – Margarita Conger

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new TRiO  office assistant. I came to TRiO from International Programs at GRC, where I was a part-time program assistant for the Business & Admissions office. (Miss you guys!)

In another life, before I had kids, I worked for the Prosecuting Attorney’s office. I also worked as a Russian/English interpreter, an insurance agent and have a strong interest in social media management.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have always liked college campuses. I really enjoy the atmosphere of learning, new ideas, and looking towards the future. I wanted to work in higher education & looked for jobs at GRC. It is inspiring to be around people, young and not so young, who are pursuing their dreams. GRC has a beautiful campus and the people I have worked with have been amazing.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I use Google Play app to listen to my music playlists or to podcasts. Some recent favorites are Financial Fientist, Philosophize This and The Science of Social Media.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Every kid’s dream job – the candy store. I worked for Columbia Candy Kitchen in Columbia, CA, in Gold Rush country. Handmade candy made from old recipes passed down from a Norwegian grandfather. Stop by if you are ever on your way to Yosemite! I still buy their candy.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I get to learn about another program and more about how the college works. I met more amazing people and am excited to be a part of a, mostly, all new team and help implement the new vision for the TRiO program at GRC. I enjoy meeting all the students that come to us too.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I plan to learn as much as I can about the different departments and programs. I hope to be able to add something valuable to the TRiO program and to help make it an even greater success. Also, I have been inspired to go back to school myself. So maybe take a class and experience the college as a student as well.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Making it through the competition to become an AFS exchange student when I was 16 – the first high school exchange between the US and the USSR. That year has changed the course of my life. And from then on, I am very happy with everything that I was able to build in the USA: family, friends, work and opportunities.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Hmm, now I am curious myself. Perhaps I will ask.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I am an open book. I would have to quickly research and learn a talent, then hide it.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great

Resources

Excellent

Education

Network

It’s Open Enrollment Time!

OPEN ENROLLMENT RUNS FROM NOVEMBER 1st – 30th

Changes you can make:

• Change your medical or dental plan, including waiving for an eligible reason;
• Add or remove an eligible dependent;
• Enroll or re-enroll in Medical Flexible Spending or Dependent Care Assistance Program

For more detailed information, see the latest For Your Benefit Newsletter:

https://www.hca.wa.gov/assets/pebb/state-higher-education-newsletter-1710.pdf

 

Get Your Flu Shot!

Student Affairs and the Office of Human Resources & Legal Affairs are teaming up to bring you the annual flu immunization clinic by the Seattle Visiting Nurse Association.  The clinic will be held on Thursday, November 9^th from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Emerald Room in the Student Union.

You don’t need to sign up for your flu shot, just show up with your completed Patient Consent Form on the day of the clinic.  SVNA also recommends you bring your insurance card to the clinic.  Completion of the Patient Consent Form prior to the clinic helps for a smooth flow and decreased wait time.

SVNA provides the standard Trivalent (three strains) or the Quadrivalent (four strains). The nurses carry a small amount of Thimerosal-Free (preservative free) which they offer to pregnant women as required by WA State regulations. The nurse may accommodate a request by non-pregnant participants for the T-Free vaccine if there are enough doses available at the time of the clinic.  SVNA generally gives the standard Trivalent vaccine to all non-pregnant participants unless requested otherwise.  SVNA does not offer the high dose vaccine for those over 65 years old, the egg-free vaccine, flu mist (nasal spray) or pneumonia vaccine.

Download a Patient Consent Form:  http://www.seattlevna.com/2017_Patient_Consent_Form_8-15-2017.pdf

What are the payment options?

1. SVNA can bill directly for nearly all major insurance plans (they will be able to bill your PEBB Uniform or Kaiser plans).  The insurance information will be provided by you on the Patient Consent Form.  SVNA recommends you bring your insurance card to the clinic.
2. Pay cash/check – If a participant is uninsured or if it’s a plan SVNA does not bill, the participant may pay in cash or by check at the time the vaccination is given.  SVNA does not take credit cards.  The standard Trivalent is $30; Quadrivalent is $40 and Thimerosal Free is $35.

 

If you have questions:  email sgordon@greenriver.edu or jhatleberg@greenriver.edu

No Shave November Leads to Clean Shaved December!

This November, we’re giving a twist to the month of no shaving! As a challenge to raise funds for Gators Feed Gators, the Admin building gentlemen have offered to be shaved clean at the end of November. Who would you like to see with no beard? The nominees are:

Marshall Sampson, VP of Human Resources and Legal Affairs

Chernenko Wheatley, Employee and Labor Relations Manager

Joshua Ireland, Executive Assistant for the VP of Instruction

Korland Simmons, Executive Assistant for the VP of Human Resources and Legal Affairs

Matt Swenson, Director of Grants

George Frasier, Executive Director, Foundation

Joshua Gerstman, Director of Philanthropy

Vote for one of these gents with your dollars. Voting will begin in November. Look for tables across campus!

Interested in joining the challenge? As an incentive, the winning “shavee” will receive a professional shave at The Art of Shaving. Who’s with us?!

New Employee Spotlight – Laurie Centauri

We’d like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I’m the newest tenure-track Chemistry instructor here at Green River College!  I started out as a process engineer designing flares, process burners, and thermal oxidizers.  I enjoyed parts of that job but missed the varied human interactions of academia.  After a merger put me out of a gig I picked up teaching at Tulsa Community College and fell in love with it.  For the last four years I have been teaching Chemistry and Engineering classes at Tulsa CC and now am looking forward to teaching Chemistry at Green River.

What drew you to apply to Green River

Three reasons:

1. A community college is a college of the community – if you like the community you’ll love working at that college. Auburn is a diversity-rich town with a great group of people that reflect the inclusive strength of a pluralistic culture. What’s not to love!
2. Hiking trails – when I need a break from writing an awesome, but tough, exam I’ll be able to clear my head by hiking!
3. Word of mouth – Green River is a well-regarded institution of higher education in this area.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Jazz, Blues, and NPR news

What was the very first job you ever had?

Medical Library Assistant – I can shelve a cart of heavy journals in 10 minutes flat and navigate PubMed to find the craziest medical journal articles

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I’m excited to work with a group of chemistry instructors committed to involving the students in the learning process through active learning.  I want to be the best instructor I can be for the students of today by reducing my “sage on the stage” lectures and increasing my active learning lectures.

What is one thing you’d love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I am going to spend some of my office hours in the library’s tutoring center to help students with Chemistry, Engineering and Physics.  Tutoring improves my ability to explain tough concepts and has been a part of my work as an instructor since the beginning.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. In 2012, I participated in NaNoWriMo – National Novel Writing Month.  During November of that year I wrote 50,000 words of a science fiction novel, completing the goal for that challenge.  I haven’t finished the book yet.  I hope to within the next ten years if I can get my main character to relinquish their stereotypical viewpoints.
2. I redesigned two allied health chemistry courses at Tulsa CC into one combined course for the Dental Hygiene Program.  The course became more focused on Dental Hygiene specific applications and reduced the degree credit hours by 3 credits.
3. I married the love of my life back in 2010, taking a new last name of our own making.  We chose Centauri as a last name because we are both passionate about space exploration.  As the closest star system, the Centauri binary star system has often been used in science fiction literature as our closest space waystation.  We also chose Centauri because it is a binary star system.  The physics of it is utterly romantic.  There are two stars (Alpha and Beta Centauri) that are caught in
4.  each other’s gravitational pull, held in the same space by the force of attraction between them due to their masses.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Sunny – I am an eternal optimist.  I try to find the good in everyone; even the ones who say they hate chemistry.

For Green River’s annual talent show (this doesn’t actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Since this talent show doesn’t actually exist then I’ll add that this talent show also has an exhibit hall where those whose talents are not in performance art could display their creations.  I would display the crocheted amigurumi animals that I’ve made.  My most recent creation is a T-Rex that I’ve named Rita Reptar as an homage to my recently deceased grandmother Rita Zinno and the 90’s TV show Rugrats.  This 8” tall green T-Rex with blue stripes is a gift for my 2-year-old niece who is loves going to the natural history museum to see the dinosaurs.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators

Return

Eager to

Educate

Nightly

It’s an acronym for a coalition of evening adjunct instructors who used to teach full time – perhaps they meet up for post-class pie and conversation at Denny’s monthly?

Introducing: The Environmental Health and Safety Committee

Welcome to the new school year!  We’d like to introduce the Environmental Health and Safety Committee (EHSC).  The committee meets monthly to review and evaluate campus environmental health and safety issues, work on training, and make recommendations to the college.

Every building on campus has a representative on the committee.  Representatives are elected each Spring Quarter to serve for the following year.

If you have concerns, you can talk to your building representative at any time.  The committee meets the first Monday of every month at 1:00 in the Board Room, and you are always welcome to attend.

Committee Charter

Minutes

Who do I contact if I see a potential health or safety hazard?

·         If it’s an immediate threat, call Safety at x2250 or x3350.

·         If it’s building- or grounds-related, you can call Facilities at x3333.  Don’t assume Facilities already knows about the situation; please call them if you see an issue.

·         You can talk to your EHSC representative at any time.

 

Adrienne Palmer	x2741	CH
Amanda Clifford	x2400	SU
Anicah Anderson	x5003	Enumclaw/Kent/Auburn ext.
Connie Jones	x2156	SH
Darlene Oathout	x2313	RLC
Marvin Viney	x2251	Campus Safety
Erin Tyler	x4231	SC
Howard Valenzuela	x4111	TT
Jennifer Dysart	x2094	HL
Jenny Park	x2503	SA/PE
Lauren Cline	x4217	Health Services Representative
Marshall Sampson	x3320	VP of HR and representing administration
Pete (Guadalupe) Morales	x3606	CCA
Rob Olson	x3386	Facilities
Robin Bowles	x4278	PA
Rocco Wheatley	x2595	HR
Ronald Riley	x4859	SH
Scott Hemingway	x3381	FO/WT
Seth Deister	x2136	IV
Spunky Robinson	x4418	TC
Tammy Shilipetar	x2604	AD

Harvest Festival – 2017

Posted on behalf of Niki Nelson and the Classified Staff Training & Development Committee

Cake, coffee, and water provided! 

Bring a brown bag lunch or stop by the cafeteria on your way. 

 

Before the event:

• Donate food to the Northwest Harvest bins in your buildings
• Help your team decorate the collection bin to win a coffee break  from Human Resources
• Carve, paint, or otherwise decorate a pumpkin to bring to the event (place on any table and fill out the info card!)

 

Come dressed to impress in one of these categories:

Best Team Costumes            Most Creative Costume                 Funniest Costume

the “Perfect Pair”                 Spookiest

 

Ballots will be available on all tables for voting on costume winners, bin decorations, and pumpkins.

Harvest Festival – 2017

Posted on behalf of Niki Nelson and the Classified Staff Training & Development Committee

The Classified Staff Training & Development Committee (CSTDC) is proud to present the Annual Fall Harvest Festival at Green River College.  This event is for employees.  Buy your lunch from the cafeteria or bring your own and join us!

Cascade Hall
Student Affairs & Student Success Center
Look for the decorated tables!
Monday, October 30, 2017
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Featuring:

Costume Contest:   Prizes awarded for:

• Best Team Costumes,
• Most Creative Costume,
• Funniest Costume,
• The Perfect Pair, and
• Spookiest Costume

Food Drive:  Donations will be delivered to the Auburn Food Bank in early November. Collection boxes or tubs will be delivered to departments around mid-October. Human Resources is sponsoring a coffee break to the department that best decorates their food collection receptacle.  We encourage everyone to visit all campus locations prior to the Harvest Fest in preparation for voting.

Pumpkin Carving Contest:  The IT Department challenges all other departments to a pumpkin carving contest!  Bring your entries to lunch with you for all to see.

Ballots will be provided to collect votes on costumes, decorated food collection receptacles, and pumpkins.  All ballots will be tallied after the event.  Prizes delivered by the CSTDC.

Continuing Ed opportunity – Supervision Certificate Program

written on behalf of Mike Nielsen, Director of Corporate and Continuing Education

Would you like to develop your leadership, communication, motivation and problem-solving skills? Continuing Education is offering a 6-session certificate course in supervision. This daytime class meets from 9am-4pm (Thursdays) and will help you acquire the interpersonal skills needed to interact successfully in a supervisory role. Topics include turning negative situations into positive outcomes; identifying your leadership traits through personal assessment; leading effective meetings; providing feedback; establishing priorities; problem-solving techniques, and more! Earn the certificate by taking the courses individually or register for the series and save. Classes begin on October 12!!

Green River College employees are eligible for a 33% discount ($399) on the series cost of $599! Classified and exempt employees may use development funds to defray class costs. Sign up at the link below.

Supervision Certificate (6 Class Series)

The Washington State Budget and You

The Washington Legislature passed Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) increases for the 2017-2018 budget year at the conclusion of this year’s session. The budget funded a 2% increase for state employees for the coming year. While there are still some nuances to the budget, it is my pleasure to share with you how Green River College is implementing the increase.

Faculty

• Because faculty working in the summer are on a contract that began before the increase was effective, the easiest way to process the increase was to do so for the entire summer quarter. The 2% increase for the summer quarter will be paid as a lump sum on the final summer payroll which is September 11, 2017.
• All faculty (tenure, tenure-track and adjunct) not teaching in the summer will see the increase when they return this fall.

Classified

The salary schedule for classified employees was updated in the system. The increase will be reflected on the July 25th payroll.

Exempt/Administrative

The salaries for exempt and administrative employees were updated in the system. The increase will be reflected on the July 25th payroll.

Temporary/Hourly

• Employees making the state-mandated minimum wage of $11.00 have received adjustments as the minimum wage has increased.
• Employees making more than the state-mandated minimum wage of $11.00 have been updated via modification to PEN forms. As the employment data is re-entered each year in June, payroll entered the 2% increase into the system when performing the annual update.
• The WFSE has negotiated a $12.00 minimum wage for its part-time hourly members. Those represented, hourly employees making less than $12.00 per hour will have their rates increased to this negotiated minimum. Those above $12.00 will receive the 2% increase.
• Supervisors do not need to submit a new PEN form. HR will auto-correct the rate on forms submitted.

If you have specific questions after you review your Employee Earning & Leave Statement after the July 25 payroll cycle, do not hesitate to contact the Payroll Office at payroll@greenriver.edu.  Shirley, Elizabeth, and Dawnell are happy to assist you.

– Marshall Sampson
VP of Human Resources & Legal Affairs
Green River College

Cookies & Coffee for Classified Staff

Before its annual retreat on Tuesday, July 18th, the Classified Staff Training & Development Committee is holding an “Open House” from 12:30 – 1:30 in the Administrative Building Boardroom. All classified staff members are invited. Stop by for cookies, coffee, soda and juice, and while there, learn more about what the college can do for you as part of your training and development.

They will also share what you can do to help the committee in its important work that goes beyond training and development—food drives, college spirit events and more!

– Marshall Sampson
VP of Human Resources & Legal Affairs
Green River College

New Hourly Pay Scales

Human Resources and Payroll have worked tirelessly to improve our current system of compensating part-time hourly employees at Green River. Their efforts have resulted in a simplification of the hourly job classes, a standardization of hourly pay rates, and an improved PEN form. Below are the key changes:

• Consolidated multiple positions such as “Hourly Admin Assistant 1, 2 and 3” into “HRY Admin Asst.” This has helped us to match supervisor and department needs with appropriate positions.
• There are narrower pay ranges for hourly employees, which better reflect the Department of Personnel and Washington Federation of State Employees’ rates. As minimum wage increases over the next three years, the scales will also appropriately shift to accommodate these changes.
• The updated PEN form will automatically limit pay ranges according to position. Managers and supervisors will be notified of adjustments to the PEN Form. As we work to correct the minor bugs in this new form, please look to the GatorNet for the most up-to-date version.

Please don’t hesitate to contact Barbara Iribarren (ext. 2601) or Zack Smith (ext. 3447) with any questions.

2017 GRC Foundation Distinguished Faculty

Posted on behalf of Green River Foundation

Announcing the 2017 Green River College Foundation
Distinguished Faculty Award Recipients

We are pleased to announce the following three recipients of the 2017 Green River College Foundation Distinguished Faculty Awards:

• Catherine Duva, ESOL, TSW Division
• Jamie Fitzgerald, English, English Division
• Dan Sorensen, Automotive Technology, Trades Division

On behalf of the Awards Review Committee, we commend all the 2017 nominees: Coleman Boettger, Dr. Neil Duldulao, Adriana Mendoza and Jody Segal.

The awards will be formally presented at commencement on Friday, June 16 at the Showare Center in Kent. We are sharing this information with the campus community now to give you a chance to congratulate the recipients and all nominees.

Thank you to the students, faculty and staff for submitting nominations and letters of support and to everyone for participating in the recognition process. Special thanks to Anthony White and Megan Evans for creating the faculty awards website.

 

Student Affairs and Success Center Update

Student Affairs construction and remodeling is wrapping up. The directory below will help you familiarize yourself with the layout of the Student Affairs and Success Center (SASC).

As noted below, please direct new and prospective students to the Welcome Desk in the first floor lobby area of the SASC.

Career and Advising Center (ext. 2641)	SA-104
Welcome Desk (ext. 6000)	SA-120
Running Start (ext. 2674)	SA-122
TRiO (ext. 2655)	SA-211
Disability Support Services (ext. 2631)	SA-210
Veteran’s Lounge (ext. 2277)	SA-224
The Current (ext. 2375) *Move date TBD	SA-218A
Completion Center (ext. 4959) *Move date TBD	SA-105
Assessment and Testing Center (ext. 2650)	SA-148
Campus Safety (ext. 3350) – Dispatch staying in current location (AD Building) until Phase 2	SA-156

Per David Larsen, Dean of Enrollment and Completion:

Building maps, signage, and publications are in the process of being updated, so please bear with us as we iron out the wrinkles in the new spaces.

A few items of note:

• Offices are still settling in… while we’d love to give you all tours, doing so while serving students can be challenging and disruptive. Our plan is to invite the campus community to an open house in the future.

• The Assessment and Testing Center now has lockers to be used by students for personal belongings while they test. The lockers, while great to have, are not large enough to accommodate every size bag students may have. If possible, students should leave large backpacks and bags in another secure location.

• In the past, you’ve all been so fantastic referring new/prospective students to the Welcome Center. Please continue to make these referrals to the Welcome Desk, now located in the Student Affairs and Success Center in the first floor lobby area.

• Special thanks to IT, Facilities, and the Business Office for helping with this much needed renovation and move. You all rock!

Suzanne Johnson named next Green River President

Posted on behalf of College Relations

Auburn, Wash. (April 25, 2017) – Dr. Suzanne Johnson will be the next president of Green River College.

The Green River Board of Trustees announced the decision during an April 25 board meeting. Johnson, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Suffolk County Community College in Long Island, New York, will start effective July 1. She will succeed Interim President Scott Morgan, who was appointed by the Board of Trustees on July 28, 2016.

“Dr. Johnson has the leadership qualities, professionalism, personal background and strength to lead Green River College into the future,” said Green River College Board of Trustees Chair Claudia Kauffman.

Johnson began her career in higher education in 1988 as a psychology instructor at Dowling College, and moved through the ranks to become the Dean of the College in 2012. Johnson also served as the Interim Campus President of the Sylvania Campus of Portland Community College in Portland, OR. Johnson has been instrumental in accreditation reviews, providing leadership over both instruction and student affairs, as well as having a deep commitment to the community college mission.

The Board of Trustees chose Johnson as the next Green River College president from a pool of 36 applicants. A 12-member Presidential Search Committee chaired by Interim President Morgan, included trustees, faculty, staff, students, and community members who volunteered their time to screen applications and recommend finalists to the Board of Trustees.

Allison Friedly
Executive Director of College Relations

2017 Summer Business Hours

Effective Monday, July 10, 2017, the hours of college business operations will be from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, with the campus closed on Fridays.

What does this mean to the public and our students? We will continue to provide support and services through the summer, but limited to a Monday to Thursday work week.

What does this mean to you as an employee? Although the college will be open to the public from 8am to 5pm, work days will consist of four, 10 hour days from Monday to Thursday.

*Note: The 30-minute meal and 15-minute rest breaks must still be taken in compliance with our respective collective bargaining agreements, and/or state and federal regulations. Please contact Barbara Iribarren or Chernenko Wheatley if you have any questions about the revised schedule or alternate work schedules.

Who should I contact if I have questions? Please reach out to your supervisor first. Supervisors should contact the appropriate Employee & Labor Relations Manager in the Human Resources office to make sure that any proposed schedule changes meet with federal, state, and local laws as well as negotiated agreements.

When will it end? Normal business hours will resume Monday, September 4, following the Labor Day holiday.

Presidential Finalists Announced

We are one step closer to having a new College President! The search committee’s hours of painstaking deliberation have paid off, and the Board of Trustees now has four outstanding candidates from which to choose:

Utpal K. Goswami, Ph.D. currently serves as president of Metropolitan Community College- Maple Woods, in Kansas City, MO. Dr. Goswami has more than 33 years of higher education experience, divided between classroom and administration at colleges and universities in Arizona, California, Missouri and Texas. He is experienced in advocating for community college funding, fostering shared governance, enhancing student success, programming for workforce development, launching and completing capital projects, and revamping and integrating technology platforms. Goswami is actively involved in statewide and local community organizations related to education, community service and economic development.

Suzanne M. Johnson, Ph.D. is the current Vice President of Academic Affairs at Suffolk County Community College in Long Island, NY. Dr. Johnson began her career in higher education in 1988 as a psychology instructor at Dowling College, and moved through the ranks to become the Dean of the College in 2012. Johnson also served as the Interim Campus President of the Sylvania Campus of Portland Community College in Portland, OR. Johnson has been instrumental in accreditation reviews, providing leadership over both instruction and student affairs, as well as having a deep commitment to the community college mission.

Kenneth G. Lawson, Ph.D. is currently the Vice President for Instruction at Skagit Valley College in Mount Vernon, WA. He has a doctorate in Political Science from the University of Washington.  Dr. Lawson served as Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences at Seattle Central College and Dean of Equity and Social Justice/Social Sciences at Shoreline Community College.  Dr. Lawson started teaching International Studies and Political Science at Shoreline in 2001. He has a passion for teaching and learning, and he is committed to ensuring underserved students have an equitable opportunity to succeed.

Dr. Elliot Stern serves as the Vice President of Instruction at Lake Washington Institute of Technology in Kirkland, WA. Prior to his career in higher education, Dr. Stern earned both a Juris Doctor and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, and had a successful career as a physician-attorney and medical malpractice litigator. Stern changed career paths in 2003, and joined the ranks of Biology faculty at Everett Community College, where he later became Dean of Allied Health. Stern also served as the Dean of S.T.E.M. at Edmonds Community College.

The candidates will each have a full day on campus packed with multiple interviews and campus forums. The schedule has been posted on the presidential search page at greenriver.edu/president.

**During the interview week, members of the campus community will have the opportunity to provide feedback via an online survey, the results of which will be passed on to the board for consideration. **

If you wish to learn more about the candidates prior to their visit, candidate resumes are available to Green River College faculty and staff on the shared N Drive (N:\human resources\Presidential Search). This link is only accessible from campus computers or via remote desktop.

All-College Emails

Recently the restrictions on the All-College Community Mail list serve were lifted as a result of successful mediation between the United Faculty Coalition and Green River College. All members of the campus community now have access to send through the “All-College Community” list.

The College Council and relevant bargaining units will work together to develop a long-term solution while this agreement is in place.

Please keep in mind the following guidelines for use:

• All-College Community email use must follow the Green River Board of Trustees’ Civility Policy.
• Out of respect for others and their time, please use “Reply All” with extreme discretion. If you are the only person to whom replies should be directed, please use the BCC line to include this group.
• Remember, we are communicating with human beings. Although email may feel impersonal, there is another person at the other end of your message. Try to exercise kindness and patience, and refrain from personal attacks.
• Think before you hit SEND.
• Any disputes or issues that arise over faculty use of the “All-College Community” email list will be addressed first through consultation between the Vice President of Human Resources and Legal Affairs and your Appointing Authority (with the exception of Faculty where it will be with the President of the United Faculty Coalition).

If you have any questions about this change or wish to receive further information, please contact your supervisor.

Doughnut Fundraiser for Court Reporting

Posted on behalf of Lori Rapozo, Computer Reporting Technologies Faculty

Hello all Krispy Kreme fans!

It’s time for the Court Reporting Student Association Annual Krispy Kreme Doughnut sale Monday, January 23, 2017. The students thank you very much for all of your past support. It has enabled students to attend both the National Court Reporting/Captioning Conference and the Washington State Court Reporting Conference. In years past, our program has had national award recipients, and thanks to your support of CRSA, they were able to attend and receive the award in person. They truly learn so much at these events and are able to share this information with the whole Court Reporting/Captioning student body.

The sale takes place in the Student Union lobby beginning at 7:00 a.m., but you can preorder your doughnuts now by placing an email to me.  I will confirm your order.
lrapozo@greenriver.edu

Here are the details:

One box (doz.) of doughnuts is selling for $12 this year – same price as last year.  Just let me know how many boxes you’d like and then what time and where you’d like them delivered.  You can then either send me a check in campus mail (Mailstop: SH2) or have payment ready upon delivery.  If paying by check, please make it out to:  CRSA.
If paying by cash, please have the exact amount. 

So get your orders in, and spread the word. Treat yourself, your colleagues, your students, and family.  The students are waiting to sweeten your day!

 

Sexual Assault Survivors’ Bill of Rights

Posted on behalf of Chernenko Wheatley, Employee & Labor Relations Manager

President Barack Obama signed the Survivors Bill of Rights Act into law on Friday, October 7, 2016, after it was passed by Congress on Wednesday, October 5, 2016.

Amanda Nguyen, a 24 year old White House Deputy Liaison for the US State Department and survivor of sexual assault, founded the sexual assault survivor advocacy organization Rise and not only helped draft this federal bill and lobbied for it, but also helped draft a similar bill for Massachusetts.

The bill was drafted in support of providing sexual assault survivors with specific rights (specifically those who are survivors of rape) in terms of law enforcement, counseling and how rape kits are handled.

The new legislation means that survivors will have access to sexual assault counselors and more information about their rights and will be able to track when and where their rape kit is tested by law enforcement, if they choose to submit one.

Survivors can no longer be charged fees or prevented from getting a rape-kit examination, even if they have not yet decided to file a police report. The kits must be preserved, at no cost to the survivor, until the applicable statute of limitations runs out. Also, survivors will now be able to request that authorities notify them before destroying their rape kits, and if they choose to keep the evidence, it has to be preserved. Survivors will also have the right to be notified of DNA-profile matches if a hit comes up on the kit, toxicology report, or other information collected as part of a medical forensic examination (if such disclosure would not impede or compromise an ongoing investigation).

Interim President – Scott Morgan

Who is Green River’s Interim President?

Prior to joining Green River College as interim president, Scott Morgan was the president of Spokane Community College from 2012 until his retirement in 2015. He also served as the chief executive officer for the Institute for Extended Learning, as well as chief operations officer since 2003.

Morgan has served as the operating budget director and director of financial services at the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges in Olympia. He also has worked as a fiscal analyst and senior research analyst for the Washington State House of Representatives.

In addition, Morgan served as interim vice president of administrative services at Lake Washington College, Kirkland, and vice president for administrative services at Clark College, Vancouver.

He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Business Administration from the University of Puget Sound.

 

Presidential Matters

Dr. Eileen Ely Resigns as President of Green River College

(AUBURN, WA—June 16, 2016) After six years of service, Green River College President Dr. Eileen Ely announced Thursday, June 16, 2016, that she will step down as president, effective immediately. The Board of Trustees for Green River College accepted her resignation and is working with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) to identify and retain a suitable candidate for interim president, as the College prepares to launch a national search for a successor. The Board has appointed Shirley Bean, Vice President for Business Administration, and Marshall Sampson, Vice President of Human Resources and Legal Affairs, to share the duties of acting president at Green River, until the interim president is appointed.

The Board of Trustees extends their thanks to Dr. Ely for her efforts on behalf of Green River College. “We wish the best for her, as she prepares to move on to other endeavors,” said Pete Lewis, chair of the Green River College Board of Trustees. “We are confident our presidential search will attract the best and brightest candidates.”

The College will host open forum Community Town Hall meetings this summer and early fall to hear feedback from the college community about the presidential recruitment plan, as well as to provide an opportunity for faculty and staff to voice their requirements and preferred characteristics for a new president at Green River. A detailed timeline regarding the upcoming presidential search will become available as the process develops.

Operations at Green River College will continue as usual, with summer quarter beginning Monday, June 20, 2016.

Allison Friedly
Executive Director of College Relations
Green River College | 12401 SE 320th St | Auburn, WA 98092-3622
afriedly@greenriver.edu | Office (253) 288-3360