Here's some "good news" items as we head into the last week of February.
First, we have a bridge!
Yes, the Technology Learning Center is finally connected to the main campus. This view is from the top of the SSB building, looking down over Parking Lot 5. Now, I realize that it's "dog-legged" away from the main campus rather than going straight across. You may recall the reason: a VERY large sewer pipe runs below the area where the bridge was to originally be placed, and it's too close to the surface to allow the necessary foundations to be poured. Hence the more scenic route into campus from the TLC.
We're moving ahead inside as well. New furniture has been ordered for those areas in need, while other offices will have existing furnishings moved to the new building (e.g., the Welcome Center from SSB).
Second, the food giveaways continue to be a success. At this past Friday's event, according to Dean Edna Chavarry, "We ran out of food and I even had to go back to make extra bags of food. We were able to serve 118 students. Students received a box of fresh Melissa's produce, a bag of pantry staples, and an ASO welcome back to school gift. The ASO gift included sticky notes, pens, candy, and calendar of upcoming events." Thank you, Edna, ASO, Melissa's Produce, and all the good folks at Facilities who provide the set-up and tear-down support for this important bi-weekly event.
Third, this past week we received an anonymous $25,000 gift at the Foundation, with the donor noting that "it is a joy to support WLAC students." The commitment of each of you, every day and with every student, is one reason why donors are reaching out to us because they see the impact we are having. Thank you to each of you.
Fourth, we are closer to having the lower floor of our parking structure ready to provide Wi-Fi access to our students. One hundred spaces will be made available as soon as the inspection of the area is complete and the College submits its safety plan to the District for review. We'll send out a campus announcement detailing the particulars of how students can safely access this service.
Fifth, our faculty continue to make significant contributions to our community. I want to recognize Michele L. Kazadi, Paralegal adjunct faculty, who currently serves as the President of the Black Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles, a professional organization that provides an important array of services, support, and outreach (you can read more about them at this link). Thank you, Michele, for your leadership and for sharing your expertise and your passion with our Paralegal students.