OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College's Environmental Learning Center (ELC) is relaunching its popular summer Nature Spy Explorer Kits. These innovative kits are designed to ignite the curiosity and passion for nature in children, allowing them to explore, learn, create and play from the comfort of their own homes and neighborhoods.
The Nature Spy Explorer Kits are perfect for budding naturalists ages 4 to 8, although older children have also found them engaging and enjoyable. Each kit is packed with a range of supplies and activities that will immerse children in the wonders of the natural world. These kits provide an excellent opportunity for children to discover the beauty and diversity of the environment surrounding them.
Kits are $35 each, which includes shipping, and a limited number of scholarship kits are available for those who would benefit from financial assistance.
Each Nature Spy Explorer Kit contains all the essential elements to keep children entertained and inspired throughout the summer:
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Materials for creating a nature-themed craft
- Nature journal page filled with fun facts
- Activities to encourage exploration all week long
- A nature guide or storybook
- Nature-themed memory card game
The Environmental Learning Center offers five different Summer Explorer Kits, each with its own theme and set of activities:
- Bug Safari - ships July 20: Build a bug hotel, observe insect behavior and engage in exciting activities related to insects.
- Squirrels Are Everywhere - ships July 27: Create a playdough squirrel with a unique tail, learn about squirrel behavior through outdoor games, and discover more about these furry wildlife neighbors.
- What's Living in Your Soil? - ships Aug. 3: Dive into messy art with mud paint, set up a pitfall trap to catch critters, and explore the fascinating world of insects using the Insect Golden Guide.
- Be a Bird Lookout - ships Aug. 10: Build a bird feeder, observe and identify different bird species using a checklist and bird guide, and enjoy hours of fun with bird-themed activities.
- I Spy a Butterfly - ships Aug. 17: Construct a butterfly puddler, make seed balls for starting a butterfly garden, and use the butterfly guide to discover various butterfly species in your local area.
To purchase kits, visit https://tinyurl.com/2p95huvv. For more information, contact Jessie Mulcahy at jessie.mulcahy@clackamas.edu.
About the Environmental Learning Center
The Environmental Learning Center has a rich history as an educational resource for Clackamas Community College, regional schools, industry and the community. Located on the former site of a Smucker's processing plant, the center was created to demonstrate what people could do to reclaim industrial sites, address stormwater issues and restore wildlife habitats in urban areas. Each year thousands of people visit to explore the 5-acre site and learn about watershed health. The site serves as an important stormwater facility for the college campus and provides critical wetland habitat for resident and migratory birds, such as the great blue heron, wood duck and merganser. For more information about the Environmental Learning Center, visit www.clackamas.edu/ELC.
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OREGON CITY — The Clackamas Community College Environmental Learning Center (ELC) is hosting monthly Stewardship Saturdays, a series of volunteer events aimed at enhancing wildlife habitat and fostering community engagement. The ELC invites nature enthusiasts, students, families and all members of the community to join these rewarding onsite volunteer opportunities and help make a positive impact on the environment.
Stewardship Saturdays are taking place on the first Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Environmental Learning Center on the college’s Oregon City campus. Participants will have the chance to engage in a variety of activities, including pulling invasive plants, mulching and clearing trails. The ELC will provide all necessary tools and equipment. Participants should dress for the weather.
"We believe in the power of collective action when it comes to environmental stewardship," ELC Administrator Renee Harber said. "Stewardship Saturdays are an opportunity for everyone to contribute to the preservation of our natural resources, learn about local ecosystems, and make a positive impact on the environment. It's a wonderful way to give back to our community and inspire others to care for our planet."
The next Stewardship Saturday is July 1. To participate, register at https://tinyurl.com/5pwpujrw. For questions, contact Samantha at samantha.atripaldi@clackamas.edu.
About the Environmental Learning Center
The Environmental Learning Center has a rich history as an educational resource for Clackamas Community College, regional schools, industry and the community. Located on the former site of a Smucker's processing plant, the center was created to demonstrate what people could do to reclaim industrial sites, address stormwater issues and restore wildlife habitats in urban areas. Each year thousands of people visit to explore the 5-acre site and learn about watershed health. The site serves as an important stormwater facility for the college campus and provides critical wetland habitat for resident and migratory birds, such as the great blue heron, wood duck and merganser. For more information about the Environmental Learning Center, visit www.clackamas.edu/ELC.
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Join Clackamas Community College's study abroad trip to Ireland
OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College’s upcoming study abroad trip to Ireland will provide participants with an incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in a different culture, broaden their horizons, and earn college credit while traveling. The programs at CCC go beyond traditional classroom learning, offering unique experiences and unforgettable adventures.
CCC's study abroad initiatives are designed to facilitate quality global learning experiences for the college community. By participating in these programs, participants will engage in experiential learning that enables them to:
- Experience different cultures and perspectives: CCC provides students with immersive experiences that allow them to explore diverse cultures and gain valuable insights into different perspectives.
- Explore opportunities for cultural exchange: Students can engage in meaningful cultural exchange, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for global interconnectedness.
- Communicate the effects of globalization: CCC encourages participants to share their study abroad experiences with the college community and beyond, promoting awareness about the impact of globalization in our interconnected world.
The study abroad trip to Ireland is scheduled from Dec. 6 to Dec. 18. The trip will encompass exciting highlights, including visits to Derry City in Northern Ireland, exploring Irish history, discovering the vibrant city of Dublin, admiring the breathtaking Sliabh Liag Cliffs, visiting the Bloody Sunday Museum, exploring Sligo City and discovering Passage Graves.
“Don't miss this incredible opportunity to broaden your horizons and embark on a life-changing educational adventure with Clackamas Community College's study abroad program,” CCC instructor Kerrie Hughes, said. “Discover the world, gain valuable experiences and enrich your education.”
The cost of the program is $3,800 (tuition not included), which covers airfare, accommodations, course fee, most meals, course-related excursions and travel insurance. This opportunity is also open to the public through the college’s community education program.
To learn more, there is an informational meeting on June 12, 6-7 p.m. via Zoom at https://clackamas.zoom.us/j/97346249589.
For more information about the study abroad trip and program, visit www.clackamas.edu/study-abroad or contact Kerrie Hughes, communications department, at kerrieh@clackamas.edu.
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OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College will celebrate its 2023 graduates in a walk-thru commencement ceremony on June 16 for students earning degrees and certificates, Adult High School diplomas and General Educational Development (GED) certificates.
This year, Clackamas Community College is awarding 1,141 degrees and certificates and 226 GEDs and adult high school diplomas. The youngest graduate is 16 and the oldest is 70. Two-hundred twenty-nine graduates made the honor roll earning a 3.5 grade-point average or higher, 297 made the president’s list earning a 3.75 grade-point average or higher, and 83 graduates earned a perfect 4.0.
"Our graduates are not only students, but they are also parents, workers, caregivers, veterans, starting new or starting over," CCC President Dr. Tim Cook said. "Graduating from college is no small feat. It takes dedication, persistence and grit. We are proud of this year's graduates."
The commencement ceremony will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Oregon City Campus, 19600 Molalla Ave. For more information, visit www.clackamas.edu/graduation.
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OREGON CITY - The Rotary Club of Oregon City, in collaboration with Clackamas Community College, has installed a Peace Pole on the college’s Oregon City campus – the first peace pole in the city.
A dedication ceremony is set for Wednesday, May 31, at 4 p.m., in the plaza outside the Wacheno Welcome Center. The event is open to the public and will include a short dedication and reading of a peace poem.
The peace pole is an internationally recognized symbol bearing the message "May Peace Prevail on Earth" in different languages on each of its four sides. There are more than 250,000 peace poles across the world. The peace poles are intended to unite people of different cultures, faiths and ideals to celebrate humanity and manifest peace on earth.
Clackamas Community College is located at 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.
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OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College will be holding a career fair for those interested in careers in manufacturing and welding on Wednesday, June 7, noon-2 p.m., on its Oregon City campus.
Participants are encouraged to bring their resumes to the event and meet with area employers looking to hire. Participating employers include Warn Industries, GrovTec U.S., Cornell Pump Company, Shimadzu USA Manufacturing, Warn Automotive, Microchip Tech, Lincotek Medical, Enoch Precision Machining, Benchmade, Astronics-PECO, CRB Manufacturing, Marks Brothers, Orchid Orthopedic Solutions, Intel, Summit Body & Equipment, Vigor, and Boeing Company.
The career fair will be in the Holden Industrial Technology Center. The college is located at 19600 Molalla Ave. For more information about the career fair, email thomasb@clackamas.edu. For more information about the college’s industrial technology programs, visit www.clackamas.edu/industrial-focus.
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OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College’s popular Latino Festival is returning this year on Saturday, June 10, noon-4 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public and will celebrate the Latino culture of the community. There will be music and food as well as cultural and community resources. Participants can learn about what CCC offers, such as GED, English for Speakers of Other Languages and career technical education programs.
“This festival is a wonderful opportunity to introduce Latino families to the college and the many resources we provide,” CCC skills development instructor Camilo Sanchez said. “It is also an opportunity for the Latino community to connect with other community resources.”
The Latino Festival will be held in the Gregory Forum on the Oregon City campus at 19600 Molalla Ave., and is sponsored by Northwest Family Services.
For more information, contact Camilo Sanchez at 503-594-3029 or camilos@clackamas.edu.
El Festival Latino de CCC regresa
OREGON CITY - El popular Festival Latino de Clackamas Community College regresará este año el sábado 10 de junio, de 12 p.m. a 4 p.m.
El evento es gratuito y abierto al público, y celebrará la cultura latina de la comunidad. Habrá música y comida, así como recursos culturales y comunitarios. Los participantes podrán aprender sobre lo que CCC ofrece, como el GED, inglés para personas que hablan otros idiomas y programas de educación técnica y profesional.
"Este festival es una maravillosa oportunidad para presentar a las familias latinas la universidad y los numerosos recursos que ofrecemos", dijo Camilo Sanchez, instructor de desarrollo de habilidades de CCC. "También es una oportunidad para que la comunidad latina se conecte con otros recursos comunitarios".
El Festival Latino se llevará a cabo en el Gregory Forum del campus de Oregon City, en 19600 Molalla Ave., y cuenta con el patrocinio de Northwest Family Services.
Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Camilo Sanchez al 503-594-3029 o camilos@clackamas.edu.
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OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College is hosting its second annual Summer Connections, a family-friendly event celebrating Juneteenth, Pride Month and other cultural and community events.
The celebration will be Friday, June 9, 5:30-7:30 p.m., on the college’s Oregon City campus. There will be guest speakers, entertainment, children’s activities, booths, food and fun. This includes salsa dance and Jazzercise demonstrations, a DJ spinning tunes, bingo, cornhole, a photo booth and local vendors sharing information about summer activities and community services. Participants will also have opportunities to learn about Juneteenth and Pride Month.
“Connection is the key to allowing equity, inclusion and belonging to grow. At CCC Summer Connections you have the opportunity to explore the college, our services and other organizations dedicated to building bridges to health, wellness and learning,” CCC Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Casey Layton said. “Come take part in strengthening our community.”
Summer Connections is sponsored by the Clackamas Community College Foundation, the city of Milwaukie, the Clackamas County Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Office, and the Oregon Health Authority’s Healthier Together Oregon.
Summer Connections is a free event and is open to the public. Clackamas Community College is located at 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City. For more information, visit www.clackamas.edu/summer-connections.
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OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College’s Theatre Department will present the gripping drama of survival “Kindertransport” as its spring main stage production.
Just before the outbreak of World War II, Britain took in over 10,000 mostly Jewish refugee children from Europe. The rescue effort was known as “Kindertransport.” Separated from their families and fostered out to British homes, most of the children never saw their parents again. Diane Samuels’ extraordinary play is about this emergency immigration and its effect over time on generations. Based on real accounts, centering on the experience of one child, Eva, “Kindertransport” tells a powerful story of survival.
Directed by Jayne Stevens, “Kindertransport” features a dynamic ensemble of Clackamas Community College students, with scenic and lighting design by Chris Whitten, and costumes by Allie Schluchter.
“Kindertransport” runs May 24-June 4, Wednesdays through Fridays, at 10 a.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., in the Niemeyer Osterman Theatre, 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.
Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (62+) and free for students. Tickets are discounted by $1 if you purchase online. Visit www.clackamas.edu/theatre or call 503-594-3153 for reservations.
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OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Alexander Gallery annual student art show runs through June 8. The exhibition showcases the finest artwork made by CCC students during the academic year in disciplines including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, photography, digital design and jewelry making.
The Alexander Gallery is located in the Niemeyer Center on the Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave., and is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with the exception of holidays.
This exhibition is free and open to the public. For questions, contact Kate Simmons at 503-594-3032 or kates@clackamas.edu. For more information on Clackamas Community College’s art exhibits and performances, visit www.clackamas.edu/art.
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OREGON CITY - After completing a competitive national search, Clackamas Community College has hired a new vice president of finance and operations. Jeff Shaffer will begin his new role starting June 1.
Shaffer is currently the college’s dean of business services, leading the business office and overseeing all business and financial operations for CCC. He joined the college in 2017. Prior to that, he was the chief financial officer for Portland Parks and Recreation for 10 years.
Shaffer holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting and finance from Linfield University and an Associate of Science degree in accounting from Mt. Hood Community College.
“I am committed to the college and the community. I have devoted myself to making CCC the best community college I can, and I look forward to furthering diversity, equity and inclusion at the college where I work and love,” Shaffer said.
The vice president of finance and operations manages the College Services Division, which includes business and financial services, information technology, campus services, college safety, human resources, campus partnerships and auxiliary services. Shaffer replaces Alissa Mahar, who left the college in August of 2022.
“CCC is fortunate to have Jeff Shaffer as our next vice president of Finance and Operations,” CCC President Tim Cook said. “He is already familiar with our processes, our teams, our students, our community and our finances. He can hit the ground running and continue to build on past accomplishments.”
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