Finding oneself and one’s path is like waking up on a foggy day. Be patient, and presently the fog will clear and that which has always been there can be seen. The path is already there to follow.”
–Rasheed Ogunlaru
First Ever Affinity Orientations for Students
We continue to bring new innovations forward when it comes to welcoming our students and giving them that sense of inclusion and belonging on our campus. Affinity group orientations is only one new idea!
Each day of this “Welcome Week” we hosted Latinx, Filipinx, First Generation, and Black affinity orientations. We had a panel of current and alumni students to welcome our students, answer questions, and provide personalized guidance. Students were also introduced to our cultural based learning communities and affinity groups.
U.S. Department of State Visits Skyline College
Skyline College hosted several members of our international education program (including District senior administrators) along with Ethan Rosenzweig, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Academic Programs for the U.S. Department of State, and Anthony Koliha, Director of the Office of Global Educational Programs. The meeting was held at the request of the Department of State and our visitors wanted to hear from international education practitioners regarding the value of international education for all Americans, how international students integrate into campus and community life, and there was particular interest in Skyline’s unique internationalized mission statement.
The Biden administration is particularly interested in expanding the role of community colleges in the support of international education. Both officials highlighted the Joint Statement of Principles in Support of International Education. Our District was selected for a visit because among other things, we are one of the top producers of the Gilman Scholarship (a fund that provides scholarships for study abroad). -Blog Contributor on this story: Chancellor Michael Claire.
Talking to Students About Purpose
I had the privilege and honor to be invited by Dr. Nate Nevado to speak to his students in the CIPHER classroom. I decided to speak about purpose. And I was delighted students shared their journeys toward finding their true purpose. It was a beautiful moment in my day. Here’s what Dr. Nevado said, “Dr. Moreno, thank you for your words and for allowing the space for our students to share out. There were several goosebumps moments and I can feel the energy after class really elevated”.
Look Who’s Out and About
Lunch and Donuts During Welcome Week
Our campus administration worked with the Center for Student Life to hand out sandwiches to students at lunch. 250 sandwiches were gone in less than an hour! We had “President’s Donuts” for students later in the week.
Skyline + Chill
As the grand finale event to Welcome Week: Skyline + Chill, ASSC hosted an ice cream truck: Mister Softee!
In September, I am resuming my Free Form Fridays with the President to provide us with a virtual space to connect. Anyone is welcome to join throughout the session which keeps the conversation interesting!
1:00 pm to 2:00 pm on these dates: 09/02, 10/07, 11/04, 12/02, 02/03, 03/03, 04/07, 05/05. Zoom In!