News Brief: Feb. 18, 2019

The weekly news brief contains the latest news and information from Palo Alto College.

PAC installs Little Free Libraries
With funds awarded through Palo Alto College's (PAC) Participatory Budgeting initiative, the Ozuna Library installed five Little Free Library (LFL) sheds across the College. The LFL project is a book-sharing program that aims to increase access to books for readers of all ages and backgrounds. The LFL sheds are located near high traffic zones including the Ray Ellison Family Center; the VIA bus stop; the Central Courtyard; the Aquatic and Athletic Center; and the school bus drop-off near the Ozuna Library and Learning Center.

PAC faculty selected as distinguished award recipient
Dr. Yolanda Reyna, associate professor at Palo Alto College (PAC), was selected as the 2019 TACHE Distinguished Community College Faculty Award recipient. The award recognizes superior levels of professionalism and accomplishment in teaching and service to Chicano students. Since 1991, Dr. Reyna has served PAC students as an Equity Program Coordinator, counselor, faculty, and chairperson. Dr. Reyna is regarded as the subject matter expert with all matters relating to students. She will deliver a three-minute speech at the awards ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 19.

PAC student selected for All State Jazz Orchestra
Naomi Vasquez, a 2nd year student at Palo Alto College (PAC) and PAC Jazz Ensemble member (trombone), was selected for the Texas Community College Band Director Association (TCCBDA) All State Jazz Orchestra. The TCCBDA All State Jazz Orchestra will be featured at the Texas Music Educators Association Convention held in February 2019 in San Antonio. The convention's guest conductor will be world-renowned Rick Condit, former tenor saxophone soloist for the Stan Kenton Orchestra.

PAC VP presents as expert in enrollment management
Gilberto Becerra, VP for Student Success at Palo Alto College (PAC), presented on Strategic Enrollment Management for Community Colleges as part of the NASPA Community College Online Series. In his presentation, Becerra addressed PAC's data-informed approach to managing enrollment as well as the Adult Learner initiative. Becerra also serves as a faculty member for NASPA's Community College Institute and will lead a group of community colleges in developing their enrollment management efforts at the NASPA annual conference in March 2019.

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