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COVER STORY2PIERCE COLLEGE POSSIBILITIES SPRING 2019I GOT MY START AT PIERCE COLLEGEShalom AburuOwner and Designer, Aburu Fashion Houseas a profession until I cameto America. This is the land of2018 Miss Uganda North America and Miss Africa Washington Stateopportunity, and you reallyClass of 2015 Pierce College i nternational student from Ugandacan follow your dreams here. Itwasn’t until I came to Pierce thatPierce College alum Shalom Aburu vividly remembers theI realized that I could follow myday she arrived in the United States to attend college. Itpassion.”was Dec. 13, 2013, and she had just left behind everythingfamiliar to her in her home country of Uganda. In her mind,she expected to land in Washington and be surroundedby the warm, sandy beaches and palm trees she saw ontelevision and in movies. Instead, the 18-year-old landedin the cold, wet Pacific Northwest. “I quickly learned thatWashington and California were very different places,” shelaughed. “But all I knew about the United States at the timewas California. It was a little disappointing at first, until Isettled in and made friends.”As an international student at Pierce College, Aburuquickly made friends thanks to the variety of activitiesand events happening on campus.“I am so lucky that Pierce Collegeis very friendly to internationalstudents,” Aburu said.“They plan so manyactivities to make sureinternational studentsfeel at home whilegetting to know Americanculture.”Aburu’s original plan was topursue a degree in biologyand eventually go tomedical school, but shequickly realized thatbecoming a doctor wasnot quite the right pathfor her. “I had alwayswanted to be a fashiondesigner instead, butin Uganda, growing upto be a designer is just not a thing,”she said. “African parents want youto be a doctor, lawyer, engineeror something like that. Those areconsidered real jobs. It nevercrossed my mind thatI could do fashionWith the support of her family,Aburu switched paths, andeventually earned an associatedegree in art. She continuedto pursue her passion as adesigner, with her mothersending her fabric and othermaterials from Uganda, Kenya,Congo and other neighboringcountries. Aburu would designand wear her own pieces,and was eventually asked ifshe would like to showcaseher designs during a specialevent at Pierce College in 2014.“This was the first time I hadever shown my designs toother people, and it was sucha special moment for me,” shesaid. “The response was sopositive, it was just an amazingexperience.”Today, the 23-year-old PierceCollege alum runs AburuFashion House, which featuresdesigns that blend her Africanheritage with western culture.“It’s important for me to bringa piece of home to my designs,”she said. “Whenever I can usemy fashion to open people’seyes to a world they don’t knowmuch about, it just warms myheart.”Aburu has worked in fashion inSeattle and Bellevue for severalyears and, this year, enteredtwo pageants – and took tophonors in both. She currentlyholds the titles of Miss UgandaNorth America and Miss AfricaWashington State. Throughthese organizations, she is ableto make an impact on people inneed back home in Uganda. Theplatform she pursued duringthe pageants was improvingeducation for underprivilegedyouth in Uganda.Aburu remembers growingup in the slums of Kampala,the capital city of Uganda,and struggling to get by. Itwasn’t until she was in middleschool that her mother’s careerin real estate allowed Aburuand her siblings to attend ahigh-quality school. Her motherrecently started MorkiswaCommunity Skilling Institute, anonprofit organization to helpunderprivileged youth findaccess to quality education.Aburu works hard to supporttheir mission from the UnitedStates. “The organizationprovides youth with educationand training in vocational skillssuch as carpentry and tailoring,”she said. “Most of our studentsare single mothers or teenagedmothers. Once they gain theskills they need, they’re able tofind jobs and eventually helptheir families.”Through her involvement withthese pageants, many doorshave been opened to give backin other ways. Next year, shewill be traveling back hometo Uganda to perform charitywork in the community. “WhenI was growing up without manyresources, I used to see peoplein the community trying tohelp us,” she said. “It really usedto warm my heart to see that,and to have the opportunity tobe on the other side and helpother people in need is justamazing.”P o s s i b i l i t i e s Vol. 52, No. 3 USPS 7034 Spring 2019Published quarterly by Pierce College, 9401 Farwest Dr. SW, Lakewood, WA 98498-1999. Periodicals postage paid at Tacoma, WA.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Pierce College, Marketing & Communications, 1601 39th Ave. SE, Puyallup, WA 98374-2222.
POSSIBILITIES. REALIZED.Register today!Spring quarter classes begin April 8GETTING STARTED123ADMISSIONS APPLICATIONSubmit an admissions application atwww.pierce.ctc.edu/apply-admission or visitthe admissions office.FS: 253-964-6501 PY: 253-864-3254Experience PierceThe Bachelor of Applied Science degrees, VeterinaryTechnology, Nursing and International Educationrequire special admission procedures.The best way to get to know Pierce College is to visit thecampus! We welcome you to experience both of our beautifulcampuses, take a walking tour and learn more about how wecan help you get started on your educational path.EXPLORE FUNDINGSign up for a tour today at: www.pierce.ctc.edu/go/visitpierce.Apply for financial aid (grants and loans) andlearn about payment options.Important DatesFor more funding options and timelines visit:www.pierce.ctc.edu/pay-collegeFinancial Aid: 253-964-6544Open spring registration beginsDETERMINE YOUR STARTING POINTAPRIL8Feb. 26March 21Last day of instructionMarch 22-26FinalsSpring break - no classes/college openMarch 27 to April 5Placement for English, reading and math classes canbe determined in multiple ways such as SmarterBalanced Assessment scores, high school or collegetranscripts, placement reciprocity, or a computerbased assessment.www.pierce.ctc.edu/testing-centersFS: 253-964-6521 PY: 253-840-8343Spring quarter beginsApril 8Last day to add classesApril 19Memorial Day - college closedMay 274GET CONNECTEDOpen summer and fall quarter registration beginsMay 29Log in to MyPierce to set up your student emailand complete the Student Guide. After you’vefinished the guide, you will schedule youradvising appointment.www.pierce.ctc.edu/get-connectedFS: 253-964-6705 PY: 253-840-8431Spring quarter finals5REGISTER FOR CLASSESAfter seeing your advisor, register for classes andpay your tuition and fees.www.pierce.ctc.edu/register-and-payFS: 253-964-6615 PY: 253-840-8413FS - Fort Steilacoom campus PY - Puyallup campusPre-registration advising begins for summer and fall quarter April 30May 3In-service day - no classes/college closedSummer/fall registration begins (currently enrolled students) May 14June 19-21GraduationJune 21The full academic calendar is at www.pierce.ctc.eduCommunity &Continuing EducationRegistration for spring quarter is open now!Check out our courses starting on page 11!Visit our website at www.PierceCE.comS P R I N G C R E D I T S C H E D U L E : my.pierce.ctc.edu/webapps/classsched3
4PIERCE COLLEGE POSSIBILITIES SPRING 2019ProgramsUNIVERSITY TRANSFER DEGREESIf your goal is a bachelor’s degree or beyond, it makes sense toattend Pierce College for your first two years. You’ll pay a fractionof the cost for the same education and enjoy small class sizes andhands-on learning.Associate of Arts (AA-DTA)Associate of Science (AS-T)n AS-T Track 1 for science pre-majors in biological sciences,chemistry, environmental/resource sciences, geology andearth sciencen AS-T Track 2 for science pre-majors in engineering, computer science,physics and atmospheric sciencesAssociate in Biology (DTA/MRP)Associate in Business (DTA/MRP)Associate in Construction Management (DTA/MRP)Associate in Math Education (DTA/MRP)Associate in Music (DTA/MRP)Associate in Pre-Nursing (DTA/MRP)BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREESPierce College now offers the following three Bachelor of AppliedScience degrees:BAS in Dental Hygiene** – This program enjoys national acclaim andrecognition for consistently graduating clinically skilled and intellectuallystrong dental hygienists.BAS in Homeland Security Emergency Management** – This onlineand hybrid program is part of a guided career pathway designed to preparestudents to become 21st century emergency management professionals.BAS in Teaching** – This degree leads to teacher licensure with dualendorsements in both P-3 education and P-3 special education. The programwas designed with best practices in teacher preparation.TRANSITIONAL EDUCATIONWhether you need to finish your high school diploma or learnEnglish, Pierce College has a program to help you build youreducational foundation.Pierce College Adult Diploma (PCAD)Basic Education for Adults (BEdA)English as a Second Language (ESL)General Education Development (GED)* Applied Science – Transfer Degree (AAS-T)** Special admissions procedures apply Collaboration with Edmonds Community College Collaboration with Whatcom Community College Collaboration with the Tacoma Fire Department Associate in Science (AS)PROFESSIONAL/TECHNICAL DEGREESAND CERTIFICATESPierce College’s professional/technical degrees and certificates aredesigned to provide students with the technical and related skillsneeded for successful employment.DEGREESAdmin. Assistant Medical OfficeApplied AccountingApplied Business*Computer Network EngineeringConstruction ManagementCriminal JusticeDatabase Management a nd DesignDigital DesignEarly Childhood Education*Fire Command and Administration Admin. Assistant General OfficeHealth Informatics and IntegratedTechnologyHomeland Security EmergencyManagementInternational BusinessKinesiology*Medical Billing and CodingNursing (ADN)**Occupational Safety and HealthTechnician *Office ManagementPhysical Therapist Assistant Social Service/Mental HealthVeterinary Technology**CERTIFICATESAccounting Office AssistantAccounting TechnologyApplication DevelopmentAthletic CoachingBookkeeping Office AssistantBusinessBusiness AnalysisComputer Systems AdministrationConstruction ManagementConstruction Safety Technician Crime Analysis and InvestigationsCriminal JusticeCriminal Justice Forensic TechnicianEmergency Medical ServicesEmergency Medical TechnicianEntrepreneurshipExplorer/Cadet Pre-Law EnforcementHealthcare Database Managementand DesignHomeland Security EmergencyManagementHuman Resource ManagementIntegrated Business TechnologyLPN to RN BridgeMedical Billing and CodingMedical Office AssistantOffice AssistantPersonal TrainingProject ManagementShort Project ManagementRetail and Fashion MerchandisingSocial Media and MarketingSocial Service/Mental HealthState Early Childhood EducationCertificateState Initial Early ChildhoodEducationState Short Early ChildhoodCertificate of Specialization AdministrationState Short Early ChildhoodCertificate of Specialization - FamilyChild CareState Short Early ChildhoodCertificate of Specialization - GeneralState Short Early ChildhoodCertificate of Specialization - Infantsand ToddlersState Short Early ChildhoodCertificate of Specialization - SchoolAge CareSupervision and ManagementVirtual Design and Construction forConstruction Management
POSSIBILITIES. REALIZED.SERVICESASPIREFS: 253-964-6300www.pierce.ctc.edu/aspireASPIRE aims to improve enrollment,retention and completion rates ofunderrepresented Asian American, PacificIslander and low-income students.ACCESS AND DISABILITY SERVICES253-964-6468www.pierce.ctc.edu/adsIf you are a student with disabilities, youcan access accommodations and supportas well as educational planning, advising,assistive t echnology and learning /elearningUsing technology, eLearning allows you thefreedom, flexibility and control to earn acertificate or degree on your own schedule.INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION253-964-6229www.pierce.ctc.edu/ieStudents from around the world canearn degrees at Pierce College whilestrengthening their English skills, exploringAmerican culture, and sharing their ownculture with local students. In addition,American students can take advantage ofPierce’s opportunities to study abroad.JOB AND CAREER e-connectionsResources for students, alumni, staff andcommunity members to explore careeroptions, education pathways and connectwith internships and employment.MILITARY EDUCATIONFort Lewis: 253-964-6567McChord: 253-964-6606www.pierce.ctc.edu/jblmTwo education centers at Joint Base LewisMcChord offer accelerated programs opento active-duty military personnel, theirfamily members, VA benefit recipients andcivilians.RUNNING STARTFS: 253-964-6705 PY: ically qualified high school juniorsand seniors can take college-level coursesat Pierce College, earning both high schooland college credit tuition-free.TRiO STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICESFS: 253-912-3644www.pierce.ctc.edu/trioThe TRiO program at Pierce College FortSteilacoom provides extra support andassists students in transferring to four-yearcolleges or universities.VETERANS SERVICESFS: 253-964-6505 PY: 253-864-3194www.pierce.ctc.edu/veteransSpecialized staff at both campuses arehere to help veterans through the processof receiving GI Bill education benefits.The Veterans Resource Center at PierceCollege Fort Steilacoom has a textbooklending library, study areas, computers anda comfortable space for meeting otherstudent veterans and learning about .edu/workforceWorkforce programs help you reach newcareer goals by finding the program thatworks for you and your family, giving youthe support you need to succeed.TUTORINGFS: 253-912-3684 PY: 253-864-3255www.pierce.ctc.edu/tutoringPierce College offers a variety of academicsupport services to meet individual needsof students.COLLABORATIONSInterested in transferringto University ofWashington Tacoma?Contact Maria Reyes atMreyes@pierce.ctc.eduor 253-912-2399 x5593for help.Central Washington University operates anextension site at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom,allowing students to earn bachelor’s degrees inLakewood.Invista Performance Solutions is a workforcetraining resource that provides customized,targeted employee training for businesses.S P R I N G C R E D I T S C H E D U L E : my.pierce.ctc.edu/webapps/classsched5
6PIERCE COLLEGE POSSIBILITIES SPRING 2019PIERCEIN THE NEWSPierce College Fort Steilacoompresident Denise Yochumannounces retirementShe is especially proud to haveplayed an instrumental role inthe district winning the secondhighest honor that an Americancommunity college can receive:Achieving the Dream’s LeahMeyer Austin Award in 2017.Only one year later, PierceCollege Fort Steilacoom wasranked among the top 10 bestcommunity colleges in thenation by the prestigious AspenInstitute.“It was a privilege watching thestudents so proudly receive thecertificates and degrees theyhave earned.”Although Yochum is retiring,she has no plans to become astranger to the college. “I will beexcited to hear about the futurePierce College Fortaccomplishments of PierceSteilacoom PresidentCollege and the WashingtonDenise Yochumstate community college system,”announced her retirementshe said. “Pierce College is greatbecause of the people who workJan. 2 after 13 years ofYochumalsoplayedanintegralhere and their remarkable waydedicated service torole in the college’s adoptionof supporting students and eachthe college. During herof open educational resourcesother. I will not be leaving thecareer, the college has(OER), which are free or low-cost Pierce family, as once a Raider,made remarkable strides,textbooks. Pierce College at JBLM always a Raider!”doubling graduation rates now offers a fully transferable“It is with deep gratitude andassociate of arts degree usingbetween 2010 and 2018.respect that I thank Denise forall OER, saving students moreYochum is proud to have13 years of dedicated service tothan 2,000 in textbook costsled the college throughPierce College,” said Chancellorthroughout their two-yearMichele Johnson. “As president ofdegree.the construction andPierce College Fort Steilacoom,renovation of buildingsSome of Yochum’s favoriteDenise has been committedincluding a new sciencemoments from throughoutto student success and closingand math building (with an her career actually happenedachievement gaps for allstudents. She has moved theinteractive Science Dome), each and every year: duringthecollege’sannualgraduationcollege forward, has been anand improved classroomceremony, where she was ableactive and beloved member inand student service spaces to witness students reachingthe local community, and hasfor student success.the goals they’ve worked sobeen a state leader. Denise'shard to achieve. “I loved all ofspirit and energy will forever bethe graduation events,” she said.present at Pierce College.”The Pierce College executiveteam created the Denise R.Yochum fund as part of theStudent Success Campaign asa way to honor her legacy. ThePierce College Foundation’sStudent Success funds aredesigned to help students stayin school regardless of theirfinancial life challenges.Deidre Soileauappointed asinterim presidentof Pierce CollegeFort SteilacoomPierce College Chancellor MicheleJohnson recently appointedDeidre Soileau as interimpresident of Pierce College FortSteilacoom. Former PresidentDenise Yochum announced herretirement on Jan. 2, 2019, afterserving 13 years.“It is an honor to follow DeniseYochum,” Soileau said. “My hopeis to preserve her legacy whilethe college searches for the nextpresident. Her collaborative,forthright approach, and herunsurpassed focus on studentand staff success make her amuch admired member of thePierce College family.”Soileau has been Pierce College’svice president for strategicadvancement and executivedirector of the foundation since2013. Prior to her time at PierceCollege, she held similar positionsat community colleges in Ohioand Maryland, and was a strategicresearch and communicationsconsultant for many years.Although Soileau had announcedher retirement from PierceCollege effective Feb. 1, she hasput those plans on temporaryhold as the college launches anationwide search for its nextpresident. A permanent presidentis anticipated to be in place byJuly 1, 2019.
POSSIBILITIES. REALIZED.announcing the 2019 All-Washington Academic Team membersIn recognition of their high academic achievements, four PierceCollege students were recently named to the 2019 All-WashingtonAcademic Team. Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor societyfor two-year colleges, introduced the All-USA Academic Team tohonor students for their scholastic achievement and communityservice efforts.The students who comprise the All-Washington Academic Teamreflect the diversity of the state, maintain high standards ofexcellence and contribute positively to the community.PIERCE COLLEGE FORT STEILACOOMMarissa BaltadonisWith a family memberstruggling with substanceabuse, Marissa Baltadonisis using this experience asmotivation to pursue a degreein business that will allowher to help people overcomeaddiction. She hopes to one daywork in an organization thathelps troubled individuals andfamilies in their time of need.Jessica CroweJessica Crowe has spent thepast 10 years focusing on herfamily and raising her twosons, putting her education onthe back burner. Now that herchildren are older, she is readyto pursue a degree at PierceCollege before continuing onto one day earn her doctorateand work in biology, geneticsresearch and rehabilitation.PIERCE COLLEGE PUYALLUPAnnika AslingAnnika Asling always knew shewanted to make a differencein the world and spend herlife helping others. It seemedlike a natural fit to pursue adegree in nursing, but theprogram proved to be muchmore difficult than what shehad expected. A
AND CERTIFICATES Pierce College’s professional/technical degrees and certificates are designed to provide students with the technical and related skills needed for successful employment. DEGREES Admin. Assistant Medical Office Applied Accounting Applied Business* Computer Net
