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

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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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$4 Million Gift from Gaye and Jim Pigott Fuels Equity in Nursing Profession at Seattle Children’s and Heritage University

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

$4 Million Gift from Gaye and Jim Pigott Fuels Equity in Nursing Profession at Seattle Children’s and Heritage University

Seattle, Wash. – Seattle Children’s and Heritage University are pleased to jointly announce a generous $4 million gift from Gaye and Jim Pigott to advance equity of the nursing workforce in Washington. This transformative gift will propel ongoing initiatives to promote inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility within the nursing field, benefiting both institutions’ educational and healthcare efforts.

Seattle Children’s, ranked as one of the top children’s hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report, and Heritage University, a leader in higher education fostering inclusion and cultural competency, are poised to collaborate and amplify the impact of the Pigotts’ philanthropic support. The gift will be dedicated to enhancing opportunities for underrepresented individuals pursuing nursing careers, addressing systemic barriers that have historically limited access to quality experience in pediatric nursing education.

Gaye Pigott expressed her passion for this cause, stating, “Nursing is not only a profession but a calling, one that should be accessible to all with the talent and determination to serve. Our hope is that this gift will break down the obstacles that have held back aspiring nurses from diverse backgrounds and provide a meaningful pathway to success.”

Jim Pigott echoed these sentiments, saying, “Through collaboration between Seattle Children’s and Heritage University, we aspire to create a model that not only diversifies the nursing workforce but also enriches healthcare with a broader range of perspectives and experiences.”

The funds will establish the Gaye and Jim Pigott Nursing Endowment at Seattle Children’s and the Gaye and Jim Pigott Endowed Chair of Nursing at Heritage University. These endowments will strengthen a collaboration between the two organizations which began in 2016.

Heritage Nursing students complete pediatric clinical rotations at Seattle Children’s, where they benefit from working alongside world-class clinicians. Heritage students contribute to enhanced cultural competency and situation awareness as it relates to diverse populations which fosters growth from within the Seattle Children’s staff. The funds will also be used to enhance instructional offerings and outreach initiatives, ensuring that individuals from various communities have the support and resources necessary to pursue nursing education. By nurturing a diverse pool of nursing professionals, Seattle Children’s and Heritage University aim to contribute to more culturally competent and patient-centered care.

Dr. Jeff Sperring, chief executive officer, Seattle Children’s, expressed his gratitude, stating, “This extraordinary gift will have a lasting impact on the future of pediatric healthcare. By prioritizing equity in nursing, we are taking a crucial step toward better addressing the needs of our diverse patient population.”

Dr. Andrew Sund, President of Heritage University, added, “Equity and inclusivity lie at the core of our educational mission. This gift will empower us to expand opportunities in the nursing profession, fostering a healthcare workforce that truly represents and serves our communities.”

The partnership between Seattle Children’s and Heritage University stands as a testament to the potential for collaboration between medical institutions and educational establishments to effect meaningful change. The Pigotts’ landmark commitment serves as a call to others who share the vision of a more equitable nursing profession and healthcare landscape.

For inquiries or further information, please contact:

Seattle Children’s Public Relations
press@seattlechildrens.org

Heritage University Communications
David Wise
509-865-0717
Wise_d@heritage.edu

About Seattle Children’s

Seattle Children’s mission is to provide hope, care and cures to help every child live the healthiest and most fulfilling life possible. Together, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Research Institute and Foundation deliver superior patient care, identify new discoveries and treatments through pediatric research, and raise funds to create better futures for patients.

Ranked as one of the top children’s hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report, Seattle Children’s serves as the pediatric and adolescent academic medical center for Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho – the largest region of any children’s hospital in the country. As one of the nation’s top five pediatric research centers, Seattle Children’s Research Institute is internationally recognized for its work in neurosciences, immunology, cancer, infectious disease, injury prevention and much more. Seattle Children’s Foundation, along with Seattle Children’s Guild Association – the largest all volunteer fundraising network for any hospital in the country – works with our generous community to raise funds for lifesaving care and research.

For more information, visit seattlechildrens.org or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram or on our On the Pulse blog.

About Heritage University

Heritage University is a private, non-profit, regionally accredited institution of higher learning offering undergraduate and graduate education from its primary campus in Toppenish, Wash. and from regional sites in Kennewick, Wash. and Pasco, Wash. Heritage University is located on the Yakama Nation and is both a Hispanic Serving Institution and a Native American-serving Non-Tribal Institution. For more information visit heritage.edu.

About Gaye and Jim Pigott

Gaye and Jim Pigott are philanthropists committed to making a positive impact on healthcare, education, and the well-being of communities. Through their generous support, they aspire to drive positive change and empower future generations.

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STEM educators invited to STEM education empowerment event at Heritage University

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STEM educators invited to STEM education empowerment event at Heritage University

Toppenish, Wash. – Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics instructors in the Yakima Valley are invited to attend “STEM in Action 2023,” an educators’ summit at Heritage University on Saturday, October 14, 2023. At STEM in Action, high-energy speakers and leaders in STEM education will empower and inspire teachers with innovative teaching methods, explore cutting-edge STEM resources, and engage with fellow educators who also share your passion for nurturing curiosity and critical thinking in students.

STEM in Action speakers include:

Joe Marquez – educator, technology leader and the Director of Academic Innovation for CUE. Marquez is also the co-host of the Sons of Technology podcast and YouTube channel.

Tyler Rablin – tech coach, educator, author, and presenter. Rablin is known for creating intentional technology integrations and assessment strategies that build a culture of learning.

David Stiner – Career & Technical Education teacher at Toppenish School District and education consultant. Stiner teaches computer science and graphic arts with a focus on getting students ready for the workforce.

Suzanne Depoe – Google test engineer. Depoe leads the way in expanding STEM studies for Indigenous students throughout the United States by bringing robotics programming to tribal communities.

STEM in Action 2023 is co-sponsored by Toppenish School District and Heritage University and will be held on October 14 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The cost is $40 and will earn educators clock hours. Lunch will be provided. Interested educators should act now, registration for STEM in Action 2023 closes October 9, 2023. To register, visit www.bit.ly/stemsummit23. For more information, please contact Barb Moses at bmoses@toppenish.wednet.edu or Maggie Dawson at dawson_m@heritage.edu.

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Heritage University to hold ribbon-cutting for campus food pantry

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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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Heritage University to Host El Grito de Independencia Celebration in Commemoration of Mexican Independence Day

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Heritage University to Host El Grito de Independencia Celebration in Commemoration of Mexican Independence Day

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University is delighted to announce its upcoming El Grito de Independencia celebration, scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 16, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This lively event will be held at the picturesque Toppenish campus, in commemoration of Mexican Independence Day.

El Grito de Independencia pays homage to the historical “Cry of Dolores,” a pivotal moment in Mexican history that ignited the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish rule. The re-enactment of this event will take place at 7:30 p.m. A distinguished representative from the Mexican Consulate in Seattle will lead the El Grito ceremony.

Promising an array of vibrant Mexican-style activities and games, El Grito will be an engaging affair for all attendees. The event will be animated by the dynamic hosting of DJ David Soto and the lively performances of Grupo Vico and folklore dance group Raíces de mi pueblo. Families can look forward to a multitude of attractions, including traditional Loteria games, engaging kid crafts, an assortment of food and beverages, captivating traditional dance performances, live music, and an informative resource fair.

The celebration will be open to the public, and admission is entirely free, reflecting Heritage University’s commitment to community engagement and cultural celebration.

For individuals and businesses interested in becoming vendors at El Grito de Independencia, there are still limited vendor opportunities available. To register as a vendor, contact Jennifer Renteria-Lopez via email at renteria-lopez_j@heritage.edu or phone at (509) 517-2040.

For media inquiries, please contact: Davidson Mance at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

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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