Weekly News Brief | September 23, 2022
From the Office of Chancellor Whitney Yamamura, Ed.D.

This week, I was happy to chair my first meeting of the District Consultation Council. We had an enlightening discussion of enrollment and the budget. Participatory governance begins with transparency, and I appreciate all participants' openness to sharing their thinking.

My approach to participatory governance is a direct extension of my approach to communication. The Marketplace of Ideas requires hearing many voices. Those of us who have louder voices, by virtue of our positions or presence, need to take responsibility for amplifying others and sharing space.

The Harvard Business Journal published an article on productive sharing of ideas. It's worth a read if you have the opportunity. In brief, the article advises that we remember we are on the same team, keep focused on the facts and topic, avoid personal attacks against ideas or identities, and remain intellectually humble.

Academia is in many ways the collection of experts, all qualified authorities in our field. This is an extraordinary benefit to our students. Finding common solutions requires that we articulate our expert reasoning and internal motives. By speaking up and using our knowledge and experience to bring fact and reason to the discussion, we will be able to create an even better CCCD for us, our students, and our community.

With gratitude,

 Whitney

Whitney Yamamura, Ed.D.
Chancellor

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated September 15 through October 15. This year's theme is Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation. All faculty, students, and staff are invited to celebrate through music, dance, and healing.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This year's theme is Everyone Knows Someone. All faculty, students, and staff are invited to join in a community of safety and support.

Report from the Board of Trustees

On Wednesday, September 21, the Board of Trustees met and held a public hearing on the initial bargaining proposal from the Coast Federation of Educators-American Federation of Teachers Local 1911 (CFE). Math Department Chair and Center for Innovation and Learning Coordinator Erin Craig presented a highlight on Golden West College's efforts to better utilize data, qualitative and quantitative, to advance equitable student success in a faculty-driven effort with inclusion and partnership of staff and managers.

Director Erik Fallis reported on the 2021-2022 Accomplishments and Accolades for the Colleges and District Office. Trustees lauded the work done at a distance during a challenging time. Director Rachel Snell provided an Internal Audit Quarterly Report, including an item on a new hire to the department who will start in October. Trustees acknowledged the important reviews completed and in progress.

Trustees authorized Orange Coast College study abroad programs in Baja California Sur, Mexico, and Paris, France. The Board adjourned in the memory of Chester Wasco, friend of education and labor, and Elizabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth Realms.

Chancellor Visits Colleges

Golden West College's helpful star, Goldie, joins with faculty, staff, and managers in welcoming Chancellor Yamamura on the final of his first official college visits.

Chancellor Yamamura and Trustee Prinsky meet Golden West College student leaders Casey Pham, Brooke Truong, and Tiffany Glover at the District Office.

College News

Schedule, Week of September 26

Chancellor
Dr. Yamamura is in the District, Monday through Friday