Heritage University and Toppenish School District sign agreement to provide library services for Toppenish High School students

HU VP of Student Affairs Corey Hodge and Toppenish High School teacher Brenda Barragan (holding document) and THS students stand outside the Kathleen Ross, snjm Center, which houses the Donald KC North Library at Heritage University, September 22, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Heritage University and Toppenish School District sign agreement to provide library services for Toppenish High School students

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University is opening the Donald K.C. North Library on its campus to Toppenish High School students after their high school’s library became unavailable. Heritage University and Toppenish School District recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) which allows chaperoned Toppenish High students to visit the Heritage library and access resources and borrow library books and other materials.

Brenda Barragan, a teacher at Toppenish High School, said the school’s library closed in 2020 to make room for a new career center. Barragan and others realized students needed a library for research projects, access to books and databases, free internet and computer access, and a quiet space to read, learn and write. Toppenish High staff then approached Heritage University with the request to have their high school students access the Donald K.C. North Library. As a higher education institution, Heritage administration recognized the importance of fostering a spirit of collaboration and community engagement and worked with the Toppenish School District to develop the MOA.

Heritage University Library Director Daniel Liestman knows the importance that access to robust library materials will have for Toppenish High School students. “The opportunity for Heritage to provide access to THS students we saw as a vital link to their education,” said Liestman. “In today’s world of fake news, misinformation, and rampant bias, it is imperative that students in both college and high school, become smart and savvy consumers of information. We are honored to partner with THS and provide enhanced services that their students would not have had access to otherwise.”

Barragan thanked Heritage University for coming to the rescue of Toppenish High School and her students, as this groundbreaking partnership will open the door to a world of knowledge and opportunities for her students. “Access to the rich resources and expertise of the Donald K.C. North Library will empower our students to reach new heights in their academic journeys,” said Barragan. “This opportunity will enable our students to expand their horizons and achieve academic excellence. We deeply appreciate Heritage University for their commitment to educational collaboration and fostering a culture of learning within our community.”

The Donald K.C. North Library is located inside the Kathleen Ross, snjm Center on the Heritage University campus in Toppenish. The MOA between Heritage and Toppenish High School is in effect through the 2023-24 school year. For more information please contact Daniel Liestman, Donald K.C. North Library Director at (509) 865-8520 or liestman_d@heritage.edu, or Brenda Barragan, THS teacher at bbarragan@toppenish.wednet.edu.  For help with interviews, please contact Davidson Mance, Heritage University media relations coordinator, at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

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Heritage University’s new MSW granted pre-candidacy status

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Heritage University’s new Master of Social Work program is granted pre-candidacy status

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University’s new Master of Social Work (MSW) program is on its way to becoming officially recognized and accredited by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation. The CSWE has placed HU’s MSW on the June 2024 BOA Agenda for candidacy review and has been granted “pre-candidacy status.”

Students who enter programs in pre-candidacy will be retroactively recognized as having graduated from a CSWE-accredited program once the program earns initial accreditation. The accreditation process can take three years, and there is no guarantee that a program in pre-candidacy will eventually earn candidacy or initial accreditation. Accreditation provides assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the program.

Corey Hodge, MSW, the chair of the Social Work program at Heritage University, is confident the HU MSW will achieve initial accreditation and later full accreditation. “The pre-candidacy is good news. We have passed a major milestone en route to accreditation for our program. Our hard work to prepare documents to support our application for accreditation has paid off,” said Hodge. “Graduates of the BSW program at Heritage who want to continue their education in social work, often have limited opportunities in eastern Washington. Having our own accredited MSW means our students can continue to work and live here with their families while obtaining the education and training needed to serve and support families in our communities.”

The MSW program at Heritage is on track to begin accepting students into classes which will start in the fall of 2024. Heritage expects the MSW to achieve accreditation in June 2026. For more information about the program, please contact Miguel Juarez at (509) 865-0423 or Juarez_M@heritage.edu or Corey Hodge at (509) 865-0411 or Hodge_C@heritage.edu.

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Heritage University to hold ribbon-cutting for campus food pantry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Heritage University to hold ribbon-cutting for campus food pantry

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University is holding a ribbon-cutting ceremony for “Eagles Market,” a new food pantry that will serve students, faculty and staff and their families. Eagles Market is in the Sr. Elizabeth Simkins Hall on the west side of the Heritage University campus in Toppenish. The ribbon-cutting will take place Friday, September 29, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.

Eagles Market will address food insecurity among students and their families. Food insecurity refers to the lack of consistent access to nutritious food. Many college students face financial challenges and struggle to afford sufficient and healthy meals as they balance school, studying and family life. By establishing a food pantry, Heritage helps ensure that students have access to nutritious food especially when they are away from campus.

Corey Hodge, VP of Student Affairs at Heritage, said the food pantry can contribute to the overall well-being and health of students by providing regular access to nutritious food. “In a recent student survey, many respondents said having a food pantry would reduce the stress of having to find food and allow them to concentrate on their studies and help them do better in school,” said Hodge. “By providing a reliable source of food, Heritage and its benefactors show their commitment to support the well-being of students and foster an environment conducive to learning.”

Eagles Market is made possible through the generosity of the Kwik Lok Corporation in Yakima, Wash., and an anonymous donor in Washington state. The owners of Kwik Lok say supporting projects like the Eagles Market at Heritage University completely aligns with their mission that creates an inclusive culture that fosters innovation to increase the success of its customers and health of the planet. “One of the ways we walk our values at Kwik Lok is building partnerships to increase our impact in our communities. Our support of the Heritage Food Pantry is crucial in fostering a compassionate community where no one goes hungry. Together, we can make a difference, nourishing not only bodies but also the spirit of solidarity within our local community.”

The grants have also allowed Heritage to hire a food pantry coordinator who will oversee the operation of Eagles Market. Heritage has secured a relationship with Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) in Yakima to supply frozen, refrigerated, and non-perishable food items to the food pantry, where they will be safely stored and packaged for distribution.

For Eagles Market operating hours and for more information, visit heritage.edu/eaglesmarket.

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Yakima Valley Partners for Education complete Digital Computation Classes

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Yakima Valley Partners for Education’s Digital Literacy Computation classes teach 150 Lower Valley residents how to master wide range of computer skills

Toppenish, Wash. – More than 150 Spanish-speaking Lower Yakima Valley community members now possess a wide range of personal computer skills after completing digital literacy courses organized by Yakima Valley Partners for Education (YVPE). The eight “Digital Literacy Computation” cohorts were held between July 2022 to June 2023. Each cohort of 20 students was taught over a six-week period. YVPE established two community computer labs at Nuestra Casa in Sunnyside, Wash., where six of the classes were held. United Family Center in Grandview, Wash. hosted one cohort, and Mabton Junior Senior High School in Mabton, Wash. also hosted a cohort. YVPE staff member Lorena Legorreta developed the Spanish language curriculum used in these classes.

Yakima Valley Partners for Education Digital Computation Class taught at United Family Center in Grandview, Wash. May-June, 2023

Suzy Diaz, director of YVPE, says all the people attending the classes are Spanish speaking, working adults whose personal and professional lives are now enriched because of having skills that others take for granted. “Students went from not knowing how to turn on a laptop, to having a working knowledge of Google apps, Microsoft Office programs, using QR codes to access information, and much more,” said Diaz. “They also know how to apply for public benefits online and use the internet to visit specific websites for job searches, to name only a few tasks. The world and information about local resources are now at their fingertips.”

The Digital Literacy Computation classes were funded with $100,000 from a $1.2 million Congressionally Directed Spending Award secured by U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) for Save the Children. The award also provided for food security and childcare, which allowed adults with children to have their family’s needs met while they attended classes. The adults used laptops, which allowed them to learn how to use a computer and develop typing skills. Some students who had completed the courses were hired to present the curriculum to later classes.

“I’m so inspired by what Yakima Valley Partners for Education achieved with their digital literacy classes this past summer, helping people in the Yakima Valley learn essential computer skills that will enrich their personal and professional lives—and I’m so proud to have secured funding to help make it possible,” said Senator Murray. “When we invest in digital literacy and support people as they learn these critical skills, we’re not just investing in their ability to thrive—we’re investing in our state’s future. That’s why I’ll keep fighting in the U.S. Senate for funding like this to support people in the Yakima Valley and help them get the skills they need to thrive.”

Yakima Valley Partners for Education Digital Computation Class taught at United Family Center in Grandview, Wash. May-June, 2023

Plans are underway to print 1,500 copies of the textbooks used in the Digital Literacy Computation classes to make them available at the sites for continued public use. For more information, contact Suzy Diaz at (509) 480-9354 or diaz_s@heritage.edu or Davidson Mance at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

About YVPE
Yakima Valley Partners for Education is a cradle-to-career collective impact network formed out of a commitment to work collaboratively to improve educational outcomes for all youth of Yakima Valley. The initial work focuses on the Lower Valley communities of Grandview, Sunnyside and Mabton and the plan is to extend into Mid Valley followed by Upper Valley.

The network is comprised of partners who have aligned to create a stronger, more integrated, more seamless education pipeline and a coordinated approach for equitably investing in children and supporting their success from birth through careers. The network takes on complex systemic and social issues by leveraging community strengths and forging uncommon partnerships through cross-sector, structured collaboration.

Heritage University serves as the backbone organization. Two leadership bodies guide the supports for the ongoing work of the network. The leadership bodies are comprised of representatives inside and outside the education sector, a key component of collective impact strategy, that guide the administrative functions of the work.

Yakima Valley Partners for Education Digital Computation Class taught at United Family Center in Grandview, Wash. May-June, 2023

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In Memoriam – WINGS Summer 2023

Dr. Robert (Bob) Plumb

One of Heritage University’s first full-time faculty members, Dr. Robert (Bob) Plumb, passed away on April 18, 2023. He was 82 years old.

Plumb joined Heritage in 1982, coming from a faculty position at York College in Pennsylvania. He served as a professor, assistant dean of students and dean of the teacher education program until his retirement. He was known for his strong commitment to helping each student, whether it was academically, finding financial support, or even providing a safe place in his home until they were able to get on their feet.

“Bob always found a positive way to look at difficulties that Heritage or individuals were facing. His generosity shone out, especially in hosting events in his home, both to support Heritage University fundraising and also to build strong community ties among Heritage employees,” said Kathleen Ross SNJM, Heritage president emerita. “Many teachers in schools throughout the Yakima Valley will remember Bob as one of their favorite professors.”

Plumb is survived by his spouse Alfredo “Fred” Fontanilla, son Hylon Plumb IV (Anita), and grandchildren Hylon “Teron” Plumb V and Arlo Plumb.

The family requested gifts in lieu of flowers be made to the Dr. Robert G. Plumb Memorial Scholarship at Heritage. page28image35534656

 

Alfredo Arreguín

Seattle painter and long-time friend of Heritage University Alfredo Arreguín passed away on April 24, 2023.

Arreguín was a prolific and influential artist who emigrated from Mexico in 1956. He studied art at the University of Washington. His vivid painting blended flora and fauna iconography with a nod to his cultural heritage.

His works hang in the permanent collections at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American Art and National Portrait Gallery and Heritage University. His portrait of the Virgin Mary, La Virgen Azul, hangs in the Arts and Sciences Center. When founding president Dr. Kathleen Ross SNJM retired, he painted the portrait that sits in the building that shares her name.

Arreguin was 88 years old. page29image35332016

NEWS BRIEFS – Wings Summer 2023

World Class hops grower and breweries collaborate to brew scholarships for HU students

A newly developed varietal of hop created by John I Haas and named for Heritage University is making its way into Pacific Northwest craft beers that will help raise money for student scholarships.

Seattle’s Georgetown Brewing Company and Yakima-based Bale Breaker Brewery are partnering with John I Haas to use their new varietal to brew limited-edition lagers. Each brewery will unveil its craft brew this fall, with a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the beer going to Heritage University for student scholarships.

The brew masters are busy finalizing their recipes and flavor profiles, preparing to brew their first batch. Heritage friends and family can expect a sneak peek at special tasting events this fall. Details will be coming your way soon. page26image35615120

 

Nursing program director receives professional award from state organization

Christina Nyirati, Ph.D., accepting the 2023 Nursing Educator Award from the Washington State Nurses Association in May, 2023.

Nursing program director Christina Nyirati, Ph.D., RN, was recently recognized by the Washington State Nurses Association for her nursing education work. During their May convention, the association awarded Nyirati the 2023 Nurse Educator award.

The awards are made biennially in celebration of individuals who have made substantial contributions positively impacting the nursing profession, the association, and the advancement of nurses. Nyirati was one of ten individuals recognized at this year’s event. page26image35615120

 

 

 

 

 

Heritage AIBL chapter places in top three at national business competition

From left to right: Shelby Yallup and Lillie Wesley

The Heritage Chapter of the American Indigenous Business Leaders (AIBL) took home third place at the national competition in April. Students Shelby Yallup and Lillie Wesley presented the chapter’s business plan for its project, Career Closet. The project provides business attire to college students so they are ready for their internships and interviews.

AIBL is a national non-profit organization empowering Indigenous youth through business exploration and practices. While its focus is on business, it is open to students from all majors. page26image35615120

 

 

Vertical farming project for hands-on learning with a side of salad

HU student Eva Cervantes checks on the vegetables growing in a hydroponic machine located in the Eagle’s Cafe dining room at Heritage University.

When you think about a crop of lettuce growing for commercial consumption, a wall of greens encased in a plastic tower that resembles a tanning bed standing on end might not be the first image to come to mind. However, in Heritage’s Eagles Café, this vertical “field” of fresh lettuce is part of the university’s Environmental Science 101 class and a source of fresh lettuce for hungry students.

This spring, a single Flex Farm vertical hydroponic unit was installed in the university’s cafeteria. This self-contained unit takes up only 10 square feet of space and can grow 288 plants, up to 394 pounds of food. It has its own water system, LED light tower, and water flow pump.

“This unit provides our students with a unique experiential learning opportunity,” said Jessica Black, Ph.D., professor of environmental science and studies. “Students in our 101 and 102

classes will investigate the increasingly important role of vertical farming in agriculture, encompassing themes of both preparing for a sustainable future in water-stressed regions of the world and agrotechnology.”

The first crop of lettuce was harvested in early June and served in the café’s salads.  page26image35615120

 

Heritage Enactus chapter and leadership recognized at national event

Enactus Heritage University president Andrea Ceja

When Heritage’s Enactus team traveled to Richardson, Texas, for the organization’s national exposition in April, they had no idea that they were about to be singled out from the pool of 223 chapters and 6,473 students nationwide.

HU Enactus received the award for Excellence in Efforts to Address the Sustainable Development Goals. The award came in response to four of its projects: Pantry of Hope, a food distribution program that happens in the winter; Women Rise Up, a women’s leadership program; Camp S.E.E.D., a youth financial and entrepreneurship summer day camp; and VITA, a volunteer tax preparation program for low-income community members.

In addition to their team’s recognition, HU Enactus President Andrea Ceja, a senior majoring in Business Administration, received the Enactus Executive Leader of the Year award.

Enactus is an international student organization where university chapters use innovation and entrepreneurship to identify and solve areas of need. page26image35615120

 

Bountiful Generosity – WINGS Summer 2023

Gifts to Heritage’s annual Bounty of the Valley Scholarship Dinner breaks records and tops last year’s total raised by more than $100,000!

It was a record-breaking year for Heritage’s annual Bounty of the Valley Scholarship Dinner. The event brought in $872,549 for student scholarships, nudging out the previous record set in 2020.

“Words simply cannot express how grateful we are for all the support our friends and donors give to this university and our students,” said David Wise, vice president for Advancement and Marketing. “Our students depend upon the scholarships they receive in order to earn their degrees. Having so many people step up to provide the funding that makes their education possible has a dual effect. Not only does it reduce the barrier that the cost of going to college could have for students, but it also gives them and huge psychological boost knowing that others believe in their capability.”

Scholarship Dinner is the university’s single largest fundraising event. Since it began 37 years ago, it has raised more than $9 million, with every dime going directly to support Heritage University students.

Student speaker Miguel Mendoza

“It is undeniable that the support our students receive from the community is what allows them to earn their college degrees. For more than 40 years, it is the amazing support of donors that has created the opportunity for nearly 11,000 people to earn their degrees at Heritage. Eleven thousand people who have then gone on from here to serve the community as educators, business leaders, healthcare professionals and more throughout the Valley. We are grateful for their incredible support,” said Andrew Sund, Ph.D., president of Heritage University.

For the second year in a row, the event occurred both in person and virtually. The program portion was live-streamed online, allowing those who were unable to attend the ability to participate from the comfort of their homes. Virtual guests were able to “raise their paddles” with just a click of a button on their computer.

“We have several supporters who have difficulties traveling. Some have been coming to Scholarship Dinner for years, and they are committed to our students. They’ve told me how much they enjoy being able to still participate, even if they are not physically in the same room,” said event organizer Dana Eliason, senior development director. “It is heartwarming to see their commitment to this university and our students.”

This year’s event program is available to watch online, and contributions are still being accepted. Visit heritage.edu/Bounty to view the video and click “Raise Your Paddle” to make your gift.

Rosie Saldaña’s Heritage story came full circle this year when she was selected to paint the artwork for the Bounty of the Valley Scholarship Dinner. As an undergraduate at Heritage, she depended upon scholarships to help her fund her education.

“I’m tremendously overjoyed by the honor of being asked to paint this work,” she said.

Her painting, entitled Bounty of the Valley, portrays images and symbols of the Yakima Valley and Heritage University—fields of apples, workers bringing in the crops, Mt. Adams, and the statue at the university’s entrance.

“I also incorporated butterflies in the painting, a symbol of becoming something better than when we started,” she said. “I think a lot of students can relate to this. We start at school not really knowing what we want to do, we go through the process, and we blossom into butterflies, and we’re into this new career.”

Saldaña graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts in 2017. Today she is a working artist and Artistic Director at Mighty Tieton. In May, she received her Master of Arts in Museum Studies from Johns Hopkins University. page23image35661776

Class Notes – WINGS Summer 2023

2015

Cialita Keys (B.A., Environmental Studies) joined the Community Development team with the City of The Dalles in Oregon, where she is working as a planning technician. Prior to this, she worked for the Yakama Nation Environmental Management as a resource coordinator.

 

 

 

2018

Gabriel Antunez (A.S., Pre- Engineering) graduated from Washington State University with a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering in May.

Jose Ortiz-Garcia, Ph.D. (B.S.) graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Doctor of Philosophy in Physical Chemistry in May. In June, he joined Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, where he is a physical chemist and a postdoctoral research associate doing catalysis on metal oxide surfaces for the activation of C-H bonds.

 

 

 

2019

Jose Carrillo (B.A., Business Administration) joined the Business and Professions Division at the Washington State Department of Licensing, where he is working as an excise tax examiner. Prior to this, he was a financial aid program coordinator at Heritage University.

Maria Diaz (B.A., Psychology) started a new position at the Yakama Nation Tribal School. She is the school’s new counselor. Maria spent four years prior to this working as the enrollment services coordinator at Heritage University in the Admissions department. Additionally, she earned a Master of Arts in Psychology from Fisher College in May 2022.

 

 

 

Brenda Lewis (B.A., Business Administration) joined Heritage University’s Admissions team in May. She is working as a transfer student admissions counselor. Prior to this, she spent two years working as a general ledger accountant for the Yakama Nation.

 

 

 

 

2023

Perla Bolaños-Zapian (B.A., Business Administration) joined the Heritage University Advancement Team as the Donor Events and Stewardship Coordinator. page8image35677536

Restoring hope and pride – WINGS Summer 2023

Heritage University Alumnus of the Year Ryan Washburn has spent his entire work life helping people rebuild their lives.

As a veteran service representative at Columbia Basin College, he helped veterans navigate college life. As program director at Elijah Family Homes, he helped low-income families in recovery become self-sufficient through stable housing and supportive services. In his current role as Therapeutic Court Coordinator in Benton County’s District Court, his work ensures that people struggling with mental illness and addiction get help to lead healthier lives.

But what means the most to Washburn isn’t the job titles that populate his resume. It’s the individual people he’s helped.

They’re people like “Charlie,” a veteran of the first Gulf War who returned home wondering where he belonged. He used drugs, became addicted, was arrested multiple times, and spent years in and out of what Washburn calls the “revolving door of the justice system.”

Entering Veterans Court following his release and having been ordered to check into “clean and sober housing,” Charlie absconded. He was promptly kicked out of the program that was designed to help him.

When he appeared in court, Charlie asked to read a letter he’d written. Through his tears, he said he’d promised his mom if he were given another chance, he wouldn’t disappoint her again. The judge let him remain in the program under the stipulation that his every move would be under Washburn’s vigilant watch.

“Today, Charlie is working on his bachelor’s degree in addiction studies with a plan to become a substance abuse professional,” Washburn says. “And he’s back with us, mentoring others.”

It was only after Charlie completed treatment that Washburn learned the extent of what he dealt with every day.

“He’d been in the 1996 Khobar Towers bombing in Kuwait,” Washburn says. “He pulled his dead friends from the rubble. He was 19 or 20 years old.

“He suffered textbook Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – and we hadn’t even known about it.

“I learn every day that not all wounds are visible. And what people also don’t see is that there are a ton of people who work hard and, with support, they change their lives.

“I get to help them do that.”

NAVIGATING HELP

Washburn knows what it’s like to struggle. After serving eight years in the United States Navy in three consecutive Arabian Gulf deployments, he had trouble finding a sense of direction. He ultimately enrolled at Columbia Basin College (CBC) and got a work-study job helping veterans transition to college. There he put his love for his fellow vets to work, regularly going above and beyond his job description.

“I wouldn’t just tell them what office to go to; I’d take them there and introduce them,” he says. “I know what it’s like to feel like you don’t fit in.”

As that proclivity for connecting with other vets was recognized, Washburn was approached about becoming a “veteran navigator” for the Washington Department of Veteran Affairs (WDVA). There, he instituted regular trainings for faculty and staff on how to better serve veterans.

After earning an associate’s degree from CBC, Washburn enrolled at Heritage. He majored in education until two of his instructors, who had noticed his easy-going relationships with other vets, suggested he consider social work. He changed his major to interdisciplinary studies and graduated with his bachelor’s degree in 2012. He then pursued a master’s degree in clinical social work at Walla Walla University.

“Through the observant eyes of my professors, I was guided to the path of social work where I was able to lead a life of service to others,” says Washburn. “I strive to embody the values of Heritage in my everyday life as I lead others in their service to others.”

UNDERSTANDING OTHERS

At Walla Walla, Washburn did an internship with Elijah Family Homes, a nonprofit providing stable housing and supportive services to families in recovery. He remembers going into that internthip with the mindset, “if you want to quit drugs, you just quit.” He said that his thinking shifted on his very first day on the job.

“My field supervisor took me to meet a client who asked me if I was an addict. When I told her no, she said, ‘You have to understand how we think and feel and act.’ So she took me to a Narcotics Anonymous meeting. I learned very quickly that addiction is a disease.

“It was a profound ‘aha’ moment of my life that, wow, these people have real struggles.”

Ultimately, Washburn was asked to be Elijah’s program director and felt such a sense of purpose there that he thought he’d never leave. But when he was offered a position in the Benton County Veterans Court that would give him the authority to make a more significant difference in people’s lives, Washburn accepted. He was hired as its first case manager and would be integral in starting its Substance Abuse Court.

Washburn’s exemplary work got him promoted to run the entire Therapeutic Court program, which also oversaw Mental Health Court. He expanded existing programs and added a Recovery Court.

“In these courts, you’re stipulating that for 12 to 24 months, you will follow all conditions – showing up in court, drug testing, counseling, staying out of trouble, staying employed or looking for employment, or going to school.

“It’s judicial accountability and treatment rolled into one. We’re all up in their business all the time, but we slowly pull back the support. The person gets into a life of sustainable recovery, a productive life, and, ultimately, it reduces recidivism while making the community safer and saving taxpayer dollars.”

LOVE FOR COMMUNITY

“The only thing Ryan loves more than his community is his family,” wrote Eric Andrews, Washburn’s former colleague, in his Outstanding Alumni nomination. Washburn is a devoted husband and father of three boys; with a job that can be stressful, he says he finds deep peace and enjoyment in family time.

“My work is challenging, but it makes a difference. We restore hope and pride, reuniting families. We’re affecting real change and saving lives.

“I don’t know how many people have said, ‘If it wasn’t for this program, I’d have been dead by now.’

“I have goosebumps when I talk about what we’re able to do. It just makes my heart really happy.” page13image35779584

Eagles soaring – WINGS Summer 2023

After years of sacrifice and late-night study sessions, Heritage graduates celebrated earning their degrees at the 2023 Commencement in May.

All totaled 239 students earned their undergraduate and graduate degrees at Heritage this academic year.

This year’s Commencement address was given by Phyllis Gutiérrez Kenney, who retired after serving as a representative of the 46th legislative district of Washington state from 1997 to 2012. She is a former small-business owner, delegate to the White House Conference on Small Business, President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Assistant Commissioner for the Employment Security Department. The student addresses were given by Andrea Ceja (B.A., Business Administration) and Alfredia Thompson (M.I.T., Elementary Education).

Seventeen undergraduate students graduated with a perfect 4.0 GPA, earning them the Board of Directors Academic Excellence Award: Lizette Santos Guijarro, Maria Mendoza, Jiovanna Roman, Rosa Valenzuela, Biriana Carachure, Aisha Cervantes Acuna, Arisbeth Borges, Elvia Valdovinos Cruz, Julian Licea, Daisy Fernandez, Michael LeClair, Brenda Palencia, Carsen Bach, Beau Filbert, Diane Chavez, Maria Reyes, Elizabeth Juarez. Additionally, Heritage awards the President’s Student Award of Distinction to a single undergraduate with a distinguished record of academic excellence and service to the university.

This year’s recipient was Kathleen Sanchez (B.A.Ed., Elementary Education). Sanchez graduated magna cum laude. During her time at Heritage, she was involved in the Student Government Association, a member of Kappa Delta Chi sorority, a work-study for several departments, and a volunteer assisting with marketing and fundraising.

Additionally, Heritage recognized Ryan Washburn (B.A., Interdisciplinary Studies in Education) as the 2023 Violet Lumley Rau Alumnus of the Year. page13image3204656

 

 

ASSOCIATE OF ARTS

Business Administration
Vanessa Lynn Estrada

Interdisciplinary Studies in Mathematics
Torre Alexis Chavez

Interdisciplinary Studies in Mathematics
Jose DeJesus Ramos

Social Science
Angel Ramirez

BACHELOR OF ARTS

Biology
Emilee Jane Bernath
Andrea Mendozav

Business Administration
Eric Agaton Ang
Gabriel B. Albert
Kathleen Leann Aragon
Perla Ximena Bolaños Zapien
Manuel Carbajal
Andrea Ceja
Anajeli Delaluz
Rafael Farias, Jr.
Karina Garzon
Tania Lopez
Sukay Navarrete
Juan Manuel Quintero Macias, Jr.
Pablo Gerardo Vera Rivera
Zeena Waheneka

Criminal Justice
Nayeli Arroyos
Jose Basilio
Yesenia Bengochea
Christopher Mitchel Clinton Berk
Briana Ruvi Carachure
Briseida Carbajal-Prudencio
Erandy Caro
Janet Lorraine Dixon
Alayna Juliane Fernandez
Erick Flores
Sheree Lynn Mahoney
Carson Bigbear Northwind
Gerardo Perez
Elizabeth Perez Hernandez
Adrian Ramirez
Anahi Razo
Marisol Rodriquez
Karina Sanchez
Ivan Santiago
Jerrilyn Stevens
Oscar Alanis Suarez
Diana Nohemi Valdivia Ortiz
Catalina Valencia Gomez
Jacquelyn Vargas

English
Anjuli Anagelie Barragan
Mary-Alice Elizabeth Correa

Environmental Studies
Noah Matthew Sampson

History
Anjuli Anagelie Barragan
Jacquelyn Vargas

Interdisciplinary Contract
Yadira Escoto

Mathematics
Josue Aguilar

Mathematics Education
(5-12 Credential)
Ben George Whitings

Psychology
Adriana Bravos
Melany Bridgett Cesena Salinas
Elizabeth Guerrero Fariass
Zahira Vanessa Flores-Gaona
Jacaranda Isabeth Garcia-Tovar
Elizabeth Gil-Ambriz
Stephanie Louise Gomez
Kamimsa Josephine Goudy
Violeta Yoselin Herreras
Maria Magdalena Mendoza
Lizbeth Morales
Cristal Quiroz Marin
Jiovanna Roman
Lizette Santos Guijarro
Rosa M. Valenzuela
Tori Katie Wapsheli
Veronica Louann Wilsey

Visual Arts
Felicia Sondrol
Allison Kaylee Platsman
Karen C. Reyess
Aaron Maldonado Valadez

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN EDUCATION

Elementary Education (K-8)
Tania Adalia Alvarez
Audrey Roberta Armstrong
Broam Arroyo
Carlos Issac Cantu
Darlene Carrillo-Rangel
Aisha Cervantes Acuna
Alondra Cruz-Valladaress
Yasmin Cuellar
Jennifer Guadalupe Flores Romero
America Naomi Fonseca
Julissa Garcia
Itzy Gissel Gonzalez
Anna Laura Guzman
Jessica Lizbeth Guzman
Sandra Yoana Guzman
Serena Hernandez
Maira Guadalupe Hernandez Gonzalez
Brandon Clay Humphrey
Christa Marie Jimenez
Sandra Ledezma
Diana Cristal Martinez
Israel Roel Mendez
Lorena Mercado
Crystal Mesina
Elise Chreie Moneymaker
Annahi Morfin Ixtas
Ana Laura Olivares
Vicente Fabio Olivares
Joel Lorenzo Ortgea Lozano
Sandra Rabadan
Shakira Ramiraz Moctezuma
Alisha Nicole Ramos
Ana Victoria Ruiz
Melissa Ruiz Moreno
Liliana Sanchez
Jose Sanchez Salas
Kathleen Sanchez
Katelyn Marie Schell
Christopher Silva
Marcos Daniel Silva
Maria Guadalupe Tellez
Andrew Uribe

Middle-Level Education

Karina Colin-Cordna
Jacqueline Tlatelpa Zacatenco

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

Accounting

Eden S.C. Davis
Adrian Guerra
Carlos Daniel Iraheta
Tina Marie Janes
Samuel Segovias

Biology
Abigail Bravo
Nathan Shawn Buck
Jesus Alberto Buenrostro Mendoza
Guadalupe Merced Iniguez
Zuzeth Danila Jimenez
Elizabeth Juarez
Yaritza Silva Maravilla
Miguel Mendoza
Ruby Nava-Guevara
Tyler Jonah Olney
Mayra Lizeth Quintero Luciano
Brenda Yesenia Gonzalez
Elizabeth Nicole Van Corbach
Trystin Nikole Yanez

Biology Biomedical
Maria Isabel Barrios Hernandez

Environmental Science
Xavier Martinez Chavez
Darren Eugene Olney

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING

Nursing

Rosalinda Arreola
Cindi J. Badillos
Hema Balderas
Evelyn Arisbeth Borges
Cecilia Marie Delaney Druffner
Kristina Kay Dillon
Rachel Aubrey Elizabeth Duce
Guadalupe Gabriela Garcia
Love Ann Faith Garza
Abigahil Garzon
Luis Felipe Juarez
Yasmin Lopez
Brenda Jazmin Luna-Lopez
Samantha Paris Peterson
Gabriela Guadalupe Rodriguez Suarez
Rosario Jazmin Ruiz Gonzalez
Jaquelyn Marie Scott
Maria Jose Soto

BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK

Social Work
Angie J. Aguilar
Jennifer Alvarez
Maria Guadalupe Alvarez
Carsen Lee Bach
Amanda J. Beavert
Elizabeth Desiree Belieu
Maria Esthela Bernal
Elisabeth M. Blanchard
Judy Edit Bucio-Salas
Lizette Campos
Gabriela Castaneda
Sergio Cervantes
Nancy Diane Chavez
Courtney Kristine Corbitt
Guadalupe Delgado
Erica Gabriela Diaz
Karen Diaz
Chestina Sally Ann Dominquez
Sophie Larraine Elwell
Daisy Marie Fernandez
Beau Daniel Filbert
Dalia Gomez Giron
Isabel Gonzalez Perez
Lizeth Gonzalez Orozco
Jaqueline Hidalgo Lopez
Christina Rose Laws
Michael Laird LeClair
Julian Alejandro Licea
Enrique Jose Licona
Desiree Denise Gonzalez
Miriam Longoria
Maria Elena Lopez
Alma E. Lopez
Jessica Macias
Christian Mendoza Magallan
Lilia Martinez
Sharmira Marita Moore
Alejandra Morales
Orlando Munoz Delgadillo
Mami Nyafuraha
Brenda Faviola Palencia Viveros
Maria Reyes
Amanda R. Rodriguez
Monique Sarae Rodriguez
Jasmine Nicole Romero
Ashely Sabalza
Jenny Lee Sanchez
Stephanie Sanchez
Katellin Santiago
Aiyh A. Sarama
Janette M. Torres
Thanya Michelle Valdovinos
Elvia Mireya Valdovinos Cruz
Justina Marie Valenguela
Jayleen Nohemi Vasquez
Deanna Vasquez Chavez
Kaylee Ann Wade-Walsh

 

 

MASTER OF ARTS

Multicultural English Literature and Language
Myriah Starr Barringer
SaraBecca Martin
Elizabeth Christine Nelson

MASTER OF ARTS IN EDUCATION

Educational Administration (Principal)
Bethany Nicole Cardenas
Dusty Wirtzberger
Joseph Wirtzberger

MASTER IN TEACHING

Elementary Education
Sina Ari Bigelow
Brenda Cardona
Kathleen Megan Habel
Lindsay Nicole Nelson

Elementary Education Specialization in English Language Learners
Yosi Barajas
Clarisa Calderon
Oswald R. Fonseca
Luis Adrian Horn
Norma Imelda Manzanarez
Fabiola Ramirez-Leon
Erika Sanchez
Alla Mikhaylovna Shvets
Megan Grace Wilkinson
Cresanna L. Zintzun

Elementary Education with a Specialization in Special Education
Cassandra Justine Berry
Maggie Lynn Fiocchi
Kayla Christine Johnson
Ryan Kahl
K. Scott Reinmuth
Shawn Leonard Scabby Robe
Charlotte Marie Schroeder page13image36565600