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News Release

Kennewick School District And WSU Tri-Cities Partner To Bring Unique Learning Experiences To Teacher Candidates (Photo) - 03/12/26

KENNEWICK, WA - Aspiring teachers will have a more robust and meaningful practicum experience thanks to a new partnership between the Washington State University Tri-Cities College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences and Park Middle School. The middle school, located in the Kennewick School District, was designated as a “WSU Tri-Cities College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences Teaching Laboratory School” at a ceremony on Thursday, March 12.

 

Teaching Laboratory Schools provide early practicum experiences that go beyond traditional classroom placements. Instead of observing a single teacher, WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidates rotate through multiple classrooms focused on specific topics related to teaching and learning. After observing, candidates volunteer in selected classrooms to apply instructional techniques and support student learning.

 

Park Principal, Shaun Espe-Amaya is enthusiastic about being a Laboratory School. “We are excited to partner with Washington State University Tri-Cities to create new opportunities for future teachers and staff at Park. This collaboration not only showcases the exceptional work of our dedicated teachers but also promises to enhance our educational programs and enrich the learning experiences for all involved!”

 

Kennewick, Richland and Pasco School Districts have volunteered to initiate the Laboratory School partnership. In addition to Park Middle School in Kennewick, Tapteal Elementary in West Richland, Maya Angelou Elementary and Roselind Franklin STEM Elementary in Pasco are designated as “WSU Tri-Cities College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences Teaching Laboratory Schools”.

 

John Mancinelli, the academic director for the College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences at WSU Tri-Cities, stated that the Teaching Laboratory School partnership provides our teacher candidates with impactful, hands-on learning that benefits our community for decades. “Approximately eighty-five percent of WSU Tri-Cities teacher-candidates stay in our region after graduating and becoming certified,” he said.  “Park Middle School’s partnership allows all our candidates to gain valuable insights into teaching and learning about middle school age-appropriate development, and a look into how professional learning communities operate. We are grateful for this partnership.”

 

WSU Tri-Cities Field Services places teacher candidates in regional schools for three types of practica: Early, Pre-Internship, and Student Teaching. All teacher candidates combined spend about 45,000 hours each academic year in 33 different school districts located in the Columbia Basin including Walla Walla, Goldendale, Yakima, Wenatchee, Moses Lake, and the Tri-Cities.

 

The WSU Tri-Cities College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences offers multiple routes for individuals interested in earning a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree in education, as well as certification programs for principals, program administrators and superintendents. Visit https://tricities.wsu.edu/education/ for more details.

 

Attached Media Files: Faculty and staff from KSD and Park Middle School gather around a sign designating Park Middle School as a WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Laboratory School.,

Kennewick School District And WSU Tri-Cities Partner To Bring Unique Learning Experiences To Teacher Candidates (Photo) - 03/12/26

KENNEWICK, WA - Aspiring teachers will have a more robust and meaningful practicum experience thanks to a new partnership between the Washington State University Tri-Cities College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences and Park Middle School. The middle school, located in the Kennewick School District, was designated as a “WSU Tri-Cities College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences Teaching Laboratory School” at a ceremony on Thursday, March 12.

 

Teaching Laboratory Schools provide early practicum experiences that go beyond traditional classroom placements. Instead of observing a single teacher, WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidates rotate through multiple classrooms focused on specific topics related to teaching and learning. After observing, candidates volunteer in selected classrooms to apply instructional techniques and support student learning.

 

Park Principal, Shaun Espe-Amaya is enthusiastic about being a Laboratory School. “We are excited to partner with Washington State University Tri-Cities to create new opportunities for future teachers and staff at Park. This collaboration not only showcases the exceptional work of our dedicated teachers but also promises to enhance our educational programs and enrich the learning experiences for all involved!”

 

Kennewick, Richland and Pasco School Districts have volunteered to initiate the Laboratory School partnership. In addition to Park Middle School in Kennewick, Tapteal Elementary in West Richland, Maya Angelou Elementary and Roselind Franklin STEM Elementary in Pasco are designated as “WSU Tri-Cities College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences Teaching Laboratory Schools”.

 

John Mancinelli, the academic director for the College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences at WSU Tri-Cities, stated that the Teaching Laboratory School partnership provides our teacher candidates with impactful, hands-on learning that benefits our community for decades. “Approximately eighty-five percent of WSU Tri-Cities teacher-candidates stay in our region after graduating and becoming certified,” he said.  “Park Middle School’s partnership allows all our candidates to gain valuable insights into teaching and learning about middle school age-appropriate development, and a look into how professional learning communities operate. We are grateful for this partnership.”

 

WSU Tri-Cities Field Services places teacher candidates in regional schools for three types of practica: Early, Pre-Internship, and Student Teaching. All teacher candidates combined spend about 45,000 hours each academic year in 33 different school districts located in the Columbia Basin including Walla Walla, Goldendale, Yakima, Wenatchee, Moses Lake, and the Tri-Cities.

 

The WSU Tri-Cities College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences offers multiple routes for individuals interested in earning a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree in education, as well as certification programs for principals, program administrators and superintendents. Visit https://tricities.wsu.edu/education/ for more details.

 

Attached Media Files: Faculty and staff from KSD and Park Middle School gather around a sign designating Park Middle School as a WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Laboratory School.,

WSU Tri-Cities Students Relaunch Mid-Columbia Rotaract To Serve Local Communities (Photo) - 03/11/26

RICHLAND, Wash. — Seven students from Washington State University Tri-Cities are bringing their collective passion for community service beyond the confines of the Richland campus. As members of the newly relaunched Mid-Columbia Rotaract Club, they’re on a mission to give back to the region through a range of charitable activities, including an upcoming bowling fundraiser event. 

 

“We hope to better the community in any way possible,” said WSU Tri-Cities sophomore Romeo Ross, currently serving as the Rotaract chapter president.

 

Rotaract clubs are official sub-organizations of Rotary International chapters, aimed at cultivating leadership and service-minded professionalism among young adults, ages 18–30. The Mid-Columbia Rotaract Club is sponsored by the Kennewick-based Columbia Center Rotary, one of five active Rotary clubs in the Tri-Cities.

 

Ross said he became involved in getting the Rotaract chapter up and running in late 2025 when Rotary member and WSU Tri-Cities donor Phil Ohl pitched the idea to him. Although the Mid-Columbia Rotaract club had been active in years past, the group had effectively dissolved during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving no one left from the chapter’s former membership to carry the mission forward.

 

“(Phil) gave me a little bit of insight as to what they had done in the past,” Ross said. “The pitch was, ‘This is really big for our community, and we’re looking for someone to revitalize this and serve in this way.’”

 

Despite his already busy schedule, including serving as vice president for the Associate Students of WSU Tri-Cities, Ross said he agreed immediately.

 

“I love humanitarian work. I love service projects,” Ross said. “So I said, ‘Of course, I would love to.’”

 

His first task was to recruit other new members for the chapter who would be just as committed to community service and engaging with people. Fortunately, he didn’t have to look far. As of now, WSU Tri-Cities undergraduate students comprise more than three quarters of the group’s nine-person leadership team, which includes Diedre Cady, freshman; Xavier Cox, sophomore; Felix Galvan, junior; Maria Galvan; Harleen Kaur, freshman; Anas Mohamed, sophomore; Rebecca Sanchez; and Nate Sibaja, sophomore.

 

Despite the heavy representation of WSU Tri-Cities students, Ross said the makeup of the group is diverse in other ways, with three members hailing from other countries.

 

“Every individual on the team speaks at least another language,” Ross said, citing Italian, Japanese and Twi as three languages currently represented. “The team is so multifaceted.”

 

Rotaract members are focusing their efforts on fundraising support for the Prescott School District, which serves approximately 225 children in rural Walla Walla County and has been facing potential dissolution due to financial distress.

 

Ross said the decision to focus on helping the district was made during the club’s inaugural meeting on Jan. 15, after each new member brought in three ideas for potential service projects and causes. Cox, who grew up in the town of Prescott, was the one who brought the issue to the group’s attention.

 

“We came to a consensus that this was the most time-sensitive project,” Ross said. “It was a unanimous vote.”

 

For Ohl, who earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from WSU and currently serves as managing director for the Tri-Cities Angel Alliance, getting young people involved in community service has been a driving passion. He praised the new Rotaract team for getting up and running so quickly.

 

“Romeo and the new members of Mid-Columbia Rotaract embody the Rotary motto, ‘Service above self,’” Ohl said. “All the members are passionate about our Tri-Cities and surrounding area communities, and I’m excited to get to work with them. The fact the group is Coug-centered is a great bonus.”

 

The group’s first planned outreach activity is a bowling night fundraiser event from 9:30-11:30 p.m. on March 19 at Atomic Bowl in Richland. All proceeds go to the Prescott School District.

 

For more information on upcoming events, you can follow Mid-Columbia Rotaract Club on Instagram. Ross said his team is still on the lookout for new members who exhibit ambition, compassion and optimism.

 

“It’s an amazing opportunity, especially if individuals are interested in community service and leadership,” Ross said. 

Attached Media Files: Among the nine current members of the newly relaunched Mid-Columbia Rotaract Club, seven are current students from WSU Tri-Cities.,

WSU Tri-Cities Students Relaunch Mid-Columbia Rotaract To Serve Local Communities (Photo) - 03/11/26

RICHLAND, Wash. — Seven students from Washington State University Tri-Cities are bringing their collective passion for community service beyond the confines of the Richland campus. As members of the newly relaunched Mid-Columbia Rotaract Club, they’re on a mission to give back to the region through a range of charitable activities, including an upcoming bowling fundraiser event. 

 

“We hope to better the community in any way possible,” said WSU Tri-Cities sophomore Romeo Ross, currently serving as the Rotaract chapter president.

 

Rotaract clubs are official sub-organizations of Rotary International chapters, aimed at cultivating leadership and service-minded professionalism among young adults, ages 18–30. The Mid-Columbia Rotaract Club is sponsored by the Kennewick-based Columbia Center Rotary, one of five active Rotary clubs in the Tri-Cities.

 

Ross said he became involved in getting the Rotaract chapter up and running in late 2025 when Rotary member and WSU Tri-Cities donor Phil Ohl pitched the idea to him. Although the Mid-Columbia Rotaract club had been active in years past, the group had effectively dissolved during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving no one left from the chapter’s former membership to carry the mission forward.

 

“(Phil) gave me a little bit of insight as to what they had done in the past,” Ross said. “The pitch was, ‘This is really big for our community, and we’re looking for someone to revitalize this and serve in this way.’”

 

Despite his already busy schedule, including serving as vice president for the Associate Students of WSU Tri-Cities, Ross said he agreed immediately.

 

“I love humanitarian work. I love service projects,” Ross said. “So I said, ‘Of course, I would love to.’”

 

His first task was to recruit other new members for the chapter who would be just as committed to community service and engaging with people. Fortunately, he didn’t have to look far. As of now, WSU Tri-Cities undergraduate students comprise more than three quarters of the group’s nine-person leadership team, which includes Diedre Cady, freshman; Xavier Cox, sophomore; Felix Galvan, junior; Maria Galvan; Harleen Kaur, freshman; Anas Mohamed, sophomore; Rebecca Sanchez; and Nate Sibaja, sophomore.

 

Despite the heavy representation of WSU Tri-Cities students, Ross said the makeup of the group is diverse in other ways, with three members hailing from other countries.

 

“Every individual on the team speaks at least another language,” Ross said, citing Italian, Japanese and Twi as three languages currently represented. “The team is so multifaceted.”

 

Rotaract members are focusing their efforts on fundraising support for the Prescott School District, which serves approximately 225 children in rural Walla Walla County and has been facing potential dissolution due to financial distress.

 

Ross said the decision to focus on helping the district was made during the club’s inaugural meeting on Jan. 15, after each new member brought in three ideas for potential service projects and causes. Cox, who grew up in the town of Prescott, was the one who brought the issue to the group’s attention.

 

“We came to a consensus that this was the most time-sensitive project,” Ross said. “It was a unanimous vote.”

 

For Ohl, who earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from WSU and currently serves as managing director for the Tri-Cities Angel Alliance, getting young people involved in community service has been a driving passion. He praised the new Rotaract team for getting up and running so quickly.

 

“Romeo and the new members of Mid-Columbia Rotaract embody the Rotary motto, ‘Service above self,’” Ohl said. “All the members are passionate about our Tri-Cities and surrounding area communities, and I’m excited to get to work with them. The fact the group is Coug-centered is a great bonus.”

 

The group’s first planned outreach activity is a bowling night fundraiser event from 9:30-11:30 p.m. on March 19 at Atomic Bowl in Richland. All proceeds go to the Prescott School District.

 

For more information on upcoming events, you can follow Mid-Columbia Rotaract Club on Instagram. Ross said his team is still on the lookout for new members who exhibit ambition, compassion and optimism.

 

“It’s an amazing opportunity, especially if individuals are interested in community service and leadership,” Ross said. 

Attached Media Files: Among the nine current members of the newly relaunched Mid-Columbia Rotaract Club, seven are current students from WSU Tri-Cities.,

WSU Tri-Cities Chancellor Sandra Haynes Honored As A 2026 Leader Of Distinction (Photo) - 03/09/26

Washington State University Tri-Cities Chancellor Sandra Haynes has been named a 2026 Leader of Distinction by the WSU President’s Commission on the Status of Women.

 

The Leader of Distinction awards are presented annually to a select group of WSU faculty, administrators, staff, students, alumni and university partners who have promoted gender equality and championed positive social change. Award winners are selected through an open nomination process and considered based on their exemplary leadership, career achievements, public service and positive contributions to the growth and success of others, including women.

 

Haynes, who won in the administrator category, joined WSU Tri-Cities in 2018 to serve as the campus’ seventh chancellor. She also currently serves as the interim chancellor for WSU Vancouver. 

 

“Her work reflects a clear focus on student success, community engagement and expanding opportunities for women and underrepresented groups,” one of the nominating WSU community members wrote to the award committee. “In conversations with industry leaders, donors and community partners, I consistently hear appreciation for Chancellor Haynes’ leadership and presence in the Tri-Cities community. She has strengthened WSU Tri-Cities’ role in the region and aligned the university’s mission with community priorities, creating lasting impact.”

 

The same nominator praised Haynes for steering campus growth in multiple areas such as increased enrollment, expanded academic programs, capital projects and the creation of WSU Tri-Cities’ Institute for Northwest Energy Futures in 2021.

 

“She also oversaw the design and construction of Collaboration Hall, a 40,000-square-foot interdisciplinary building that earned national recognition for excellence,” the nominator wrote. “Designed by an all-female architectural team, the project reflects her commitment to advancing women in STEM and leadership roles.”

 

Haynes earned her Ph.D. in experimental neuropsychology from Colorado State University, where she later re-specialized in counseling psychology, and holds a professorship through WSU’s Department of Psychology. As a first-generation college student, Haynes has demonstrated a career-long commitment to increasing access to higher education through novel programs and community connections—including bridge and teaching pathways programs made in partnership with regional schools and community colleges. Haynes previously received the TRIO First-Generation Champion Award in recognition of such efforts.

 

Her community leadership has extended beyond the WSU Tri-Cities campus as well. Serving as a board member and immediate past chair of the Tri-City Development Council, Haynes has worked to foster economic growth within the Columbia Basin region. The Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business also selected Haynes as one of its 2025 Tri-City People of Influence awardees.

 

“In every conversation and decision, Chancellor Haynes centers people—students, colleagues and the communities we serve. She consistently models respect, transparency and accountability, creating an environment where others feel empowered to lead, innovate and grow,” another nominator wrote. “Her contributions reach far beyond job responsibilities—they touch lives, open doors and strengthen the future of both WSU Tri-Cities and WSU Vancouver.”

 

Haynes will be honored alongside eight other 2026 Leader of Distinction winners at a formal awards ceremony on March 26 at the Elson S. Floyd Cultural Center in Pullman, Wash.

Attached Media Files: Sandra Haynes joined WSU Tri-Cities in 2018 to serve as the campus’ seventh chancellor.,

WSU Tri-Cities Chancellor Sandra Haynes Honored As A 2026 Leader Of Distinction (Photo) - 03/09/26

Washington State University Tri-Cities Chancellor Sandra Haynes has been named a 2026 Leader of Distinction by the WSU President’s Commission on the Status of Women.

 

The Leader of Distinction awards are presented annually to a select group of WSU faculty, administrators, staff, students, alumni and university partners who have promoted gender equality and championed positive social change. Award winners are selected through an open nomination process and considered based on their exemplary leadership, career achievements, public service and positive contributions to the growth and success of others, including women.

 

Haynes, who won in the administrator category, joined WSU Tri-Cities in 2018 to serve as the campus’ seventh chancellor. She also currently serves as the interim chancellor for WSU Vancouver. 

 

“Her work reflects a clear focus on student success, community engagement and expanding opportunities for women and underrepresented groups,” one of the nominating WSU community members wrote to the award committee. “In conversations with industry leaders, donors and community partners, I consistently hear appreciation for Chancellor Haynes’ leadership and presence in the Tri-Cities community. She has strengthened WSU Tri-Cities’ role in the region and aligned the university’s mission with community priorities, creating lasting impact.”

 

The same nominator praised Haynes for steering campus growth in multiple areas such as increased enrollment, expanded academic programs, capital projects and the creation of WSU Tri-Cities’ Institute for Northwest Energy Futures in 2021.

 

“She also oversaw the design and construction of Collaboration Hall, a 40,000-square-foot interdisciplinary building that earned national recognition for excellence,” the nominator wrote. “Designed by an all-female architectural team, the project reflects her commitment to advancing women in STEM and leadership roles.”

 

Haynes earned her Ph.D. in experimental neuropsychology from Colorado State University, where she later re-specialized in counseling psychology, and holds a professorship through WSU’s Department of Psychology. As a first-generation college student, Haynes has demonstrated a career-long commitment to increasing access to higher education through novel programs and community connections—including bridge and teaching pathways programs made in partnership with regional schools and community colleges. Haynes previously received the TRIO First-Generation Champion Award in recognition of such efforts.

 

Her community leadership has extended beyond the WSU Tri-Cities campus as well. Serving as a board member and immediate past chair of the Tri-City Development Council, Haynes has worked to foster economic growth within the Columbia Basin region. The Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business also selected Haynes as one of its 2025 Tri-City People of Influence awardees.

 

“In every conversation and decision, Chancellor Haynes centers people—students, colleagues and the communities we serve. She consistently models respect, transparency and accountability, creating an environment where others feel empowered to lead, innovate and grow,” another nominator wrote. “Her contributions reach far beyond job responsibilities—they touch lives, open doors and strengthen the future of both WSU Tri-Cities and WSU Vancouver.”

 

Haynes will be honored alongside eight other 2026 Leader of Distinction winners at a formal awards ceremony on March 26 at the Elson S. Floyd Cultural Center in Pullman, Wash.

Attached Media Files: Sandra Haynes joined WSU Tri-Cities in 2018 to serve as the campus’ seventh chancellor.,

MEDIA ALERT: WSU Tri-Cities And Kennewick School District Host Dedication Ceremony For Laboratory School Partnership - 03/04/26

When:       7:30 a.m. Thursday, March 12
 

Where:     Park Middle School, 1011 W. 10th Ave., Kennewick, 99336

 

What:        Park Middle School/ WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Laboratory School Dedications

  • A brief welcome from WSU Tri-Cities Academic Director for the College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences, John Mancinelli
  • Remarks by WSU Tri-Cities Leadership, a WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidate, Kennewick School District Superintendent, Lance Hansen and Park Middle School principal, Shaun Espe-Amaya
  • Unveiling of the WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Laboratory School sign
  • WSU Tri-Cities student-led mini tours

Why:         Great photo/video opportunity showing partnership between WSU Tri-Cities College of Education and local schools to provide meaningful early practicum experiences for teacher candidates. The Laboratory School                        partnership is unique because it allows teacher candidates to observe in multiple classrooms and then volunteer in multiple classrooms to apply teaching techniques, rather than a single classroom.

 

Who:         In attendance will be WSU Tri-Cities leadership, Kennewick School District Superintendent Lance Hansen, Park Middle School Principal Shaun Espe-Amaya, and WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidates.

 

 

###

 

Media Contacts:

Leslie Streeter, WSU Tri-Cities Director of Marketing and Communications, leslie.streeter@wsu.edu (509) 372-7333, or Cell: (209) 606-9144

Robyn Chastain, KSD Communications and Public Relations, robyn.chastain@ksd.org, (509) 222-7424

MEDIA ALERT: WSU Tri-Cities And Kennewick School District Host Dedication Ceremony For Laboratory School Partnership - 03/04/26

When:       7:30 a.m. Thursday, March 12
 

Where:     Park Middle School, 1011 W. 10th Ave., Kennewick, 99336

 

What:        Park Middle School/ WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Laboratory School Dedications

  • A brief welcome from WSU Tri-Cities Academic Director for the College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences, John Mancinelli
  • Remarks by WSU Tri-Cities Leadership, a WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidate, Kennewick School District Superintendent, Lance Hansen and Park Middle School principal, Shaun Espe-Amaya
  • Unveiling of the WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Laboratory School sign
  • WSU Tri-Cities student-led mini tours

Why:         Great photo/video opportunity showing partnership between WSU Tri-Cities College of Education and local schools to provide meaningful early practicum experiences for teacher candidates. The Laboratory School                        partnership is unique because it allows teacher candidates to observe in multiple classrooms and then volunteer in multiple classrooms to apply teaching techniques, rather than a single classroom.

 

Who:         In attendance will be WSU Tri-Cities leadership, Kennewick School District Superintendent Lance Hansen, Park Middle School Principal Shaun Espe-Amaya, and WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidates.

 

 

###

 

Media Contacts:

Leslie Streeter, WSU Tri-Cities Director of Marketing and Communications, leslie.streeter@wsu.edu (509) 372-7333, or Cell: (209) 606-9144

Robyn Chastain, KSD Communications and Public Relations, robyn.chastain@ksd.org, (509) 222-7424

WSU Tri-Cities To Host Community Panel On The Importance Of Critical Minerals - 03/02/26

RICHLAND, Wash. — The Washington State University Tri-Cities Institute for Northwest Energy Futures (INEF) is hosting a community forum on the pressing geopolitical topic of critical minerals. The event, titled “Digging for Energy: Why Critical Minerals Matter,” will take place from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on March 10, both online and in person at the WSU Tri-Cities campus in Richland.

 

The program will feature a four-person panel, including guest speakers from WSU, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), and other industry groups. Together, they will discuss the current state of U.S. critical mineral supplies and how those supplies affect domestic energy and technology development. The panel is designed for a non-technical audience, offering clear explanations that break down the complexities of the critical minerals debate.

 

“The goal of this panel is really to give people an avenue to learn what these critical minerals are, why we want them, where we’re getting them, and also ask questions to help understand the science around the topic,” said Erin Benson, assistant professor of critical minerals for the WSU School of the Environment and an INEF faculty fellow, who will be speaking as one of the panelists.

 

According to the Energy Act of 2020, a critical mineral is defined as a non-fuel material that is considered essential for economic or national security and susceptible to supply-chain disruption.

 

In the United States, the most recently published critical minerals list comprises 60 minerals — including all 15 elements known as rare earths. Rare earth elements are crucial for producing high-quality magnets used in large-scale electrical turbines, among other things. Today, an estimated 70 percent of all rare earth elements produced globally come from China.

 

“China has at times turned off the tap on rare earth elements and just stopped exporting them to anyone,” Benson said. “It’s a known risk.” 

 

For the March panel, Benson said she hopes to discuss how the U.S. government surveys for potential critical mineral deposits, as well as the risks and tradeoffs associated with domestic mining and production. 

 

In addition to Benson, the panelists for the forum are Aaron Feaver, WSU’s executive director for the Joint Center for Deployment & Research in Earth Abundant Materials; Nabajit Lahiri, research scientist at PNNL; and Sidney Smith, government affairs manager for the American Exploration and Mining Association. Sean V. O’Brien, director of the Energy Forward Alliance, will serve as moderator.

 

The event is free and open to the public. Those who plan to attend are encouraged to RSVP online.

Resources
Registration link: https://wsu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8AKP6PTiA0wIaV0

WSU Tri-Cities To Host Community Panel On The Importance Of Critical Minerals - 03/02/26

RICHLAND, Wash. — The Washington State University Tri-Cities Institute for Northwest Energy Futures (INEF) is hosting a community forum on the pressing geopolitical topic of critical minerals. The event, titled “Digging for Energy: Why Critical Minerals Matter,” will take place from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on March 10, both online and in person at the WSU Tri-Cities campus in Richland.

 

The program will feature a four-person panel, including guest speakers from WSU, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), and other industry groups. Together, they will discuss the current state of U.S. critical mineral supplies and how those supplies affect domestic energy and technology development. The panel is designed for a non-technical audience, offering clear explanations that break down the complexities of the critical minerals debate.

 

“The goal of this panel is really to give people an avenue to learn what these critical minerals are, why we want them, where we’re getting them, and also ask questions to help understand the science around the topic,” said Erin Benson, assistant professor of critical minerals for the WSU School of the Environment and an INEF faculty fellow, who will be speaking as one of the panelists.

 

According to the Energy Act of 2020, a critical mineral is defined as a non-fuel material that is considered essential for economic or national security and susceptible to supply-chain disruption.

 

In the United States, the most recently published critical minerals list comprises 60 minerals — including all 15 elements known as rare earths. Rare earth elements are crucial for producing high-quality magnets used in large-scale electrical turbines, among other things. Today, an estimated 70 percent of all rare earth elements produced globally come from China.

 

“China has at times turned off the tap on rare earth elements and just stopped exporting them to anyone,” Benson said. “It’s a known risk.” 

 

For the March panel, Benson said she hopes to discuss how the U.S. government surveys for potential critical mineral deposits, as well as the risks and tradeoffs associated with domestic mining and production. 

 

In addition to Benson, the panelists for the forum are Aaron Feaver, WSU’s executive director for the Joint Center for Deployment & Research in Earth Abundant Materials; Nabajit Lahiri, research scientist at PNNL; and Sidney Smith, government affairs manager for the American Exploration and Mining Association. Sean V. O’Brien, director of the Energy Forward Alliance, will serve as moderator.

 

The event is free and open to the public. Those who plan to attend are encouraged to RSVP online.

Resources
Registration link: https://wsu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8AKP6PTiA0wIaV0

WSU Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks Announces New 2026 Dates For “Generative AI Essentials” Workshops - 02/26/26

RICHLAND, Wash. — Washington State University Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks has announced two new 2026 workshop dates for its high-demand professional development offering, “Generative AI Essentials: Workplace Applications and Ethical Use.” The hands-on workshop series is a cornerstone of Cougar Tracks’ growing AI literacy portfolio, designed to help organizations across the Tri-Cities—from small businesses to large enterprises—adopt generative AI tools responsibly, practically and with confidence.

 

New 2026 workshop dates are scheduled for:

  • March 19, 2026
  • May 18, 2026

“AI adoption isn’t just about access to tools—it’s about building user confidence, digital fluency and ethical decision-making,” said Michelle Hrycauk Nassif, director of Cougar Tracks at WSU Tri-Cities. “Cougar Tracks is building a practical, workforce-ready AI literacy portfolio that meets people where they are and helps them apply GenAI immediately—through hands-on lab work, real workplace scenarios and clear guidance on responsible use.”

 

Led by Dr. Neelam Chahlia, the three-hour, interactive workshop is designed to clearly demonstrate the strengths and shortcomings of generative AI while enhancing participants’ ability to use AI tools safely and effectively. Participants will engage in guided exercises and applied “lab-style” practice to learn core prompting techniques; explore productivity use cases; and identify risks and guardrails related to cybersecurity, data privacy and ethical decision making.

 

What participants can expect

The workshop emphasizes practical application and responsible use, with a focus on:

  • Hands-on lab work using GenAI tools for workplace productivity and problem solving.
  • Prompt writing fundamentals to improve output quality and reliability.
  • Real-world scenarios and case examples relevant across business sectors.
  • Ethics, privacy and cybersecurity considerations to support safe adoption.
  • Actionable takeaways participants can use immediately with their teams.

Cougar Tracks’ AI literacy portfolio is being developed to support organizations at every stage of adoption—whether they are exploring GenAI for the first time or working to align emerging tools with organizational policy, compliance and culture.

 

Registration and availability

Seats are limited. Organizations are encouraged to enroll early and consider sending teams to accelerate adoption and promote shared learning. Additional 2026 workshop dates may be offered based on demand.

 

Program details and workshop registration links are available on the WSU Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks website at: tricities.wsu.edu/continuing-education

 

About Cougar Tracks
Cougar Tracks is the continuing education and workforce development arm of Washington State University Tri-Cities. Through industry-driven programs, community partnerships and accessible learning opportunities, Cougar Tracks connects education to real-world impact—supporting professionals, businesses and communities across the Tri-Cities region.

WSU Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks Announces New 2026 Dates For “Generative AI Essentials” Workshops - 02/26/26

RICHLAND, Wash. — Washington State University Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks has announced two new 2026 workshop dates for its high-demand professional development offering, “Generative AI Essentials: Workplace Applications and Ethical Use.” The hands-on workshop series is a cornerstone of Cougar Tracks’ growing AI literacy portfolio, designed to help organizations across the Tri-Cities—from small businesses to large enterprises—adopt generative AI tools responsibly, practically and with confidence.

 

New 2026 workshop dates are scheduled for:

  • March 19, 2026
  • May 18, 2026

“AI adoption isn’t just about access to tools—it’s about building user confidence, digital fluency and ethical decision-making,” said Michelle Hrycauk Nassif, director of Cougar Tracks at WSU Tri-Cities. “Cougar Tracks is building a practical, workforce-ready AI literacy portfolio that meets people where they are and helps them apply GenAI immediately—through hands-on lab work, real workplace scenarios and clear guidance on responsible use.”

 

Led by Dr. Neelam Chahlia, the three-hour, interactive workshop is designed to clearly demonstrate the strengths and shortcomings of generative AI while enhancing participants’ ability to use AI tools safely and effectively. Participants will engage in guided exercises and applied “lab-style” practice to learn core prompting techniques; explore productivity use cases; and identify risks and guardrails related to cybersecurity, data privacy and ethical decision making.

 

What participants can expect

The workshop emphasizes practical application and responsible use, with a focus on:

  • Hands-on lab work using GenAI tools for workplace productivity and problem solving.
  • Prompt writing fundamentals to improve output quality and reliability.
  • Real-world scenarios and case examples relevant across business sectors.
  • Ethics, privacy and cybersecurity considerations to support safe adoption.
  • Actionable takeaways participants can use immediately with their teams.

Cougar Tracks’ AI literacy portfolio is being developed to support organizations at every stage of adoption—whether they are exploring GenAI for the first time or working to align emerging tools with organizational policy, compliance and culture.

 

Registration and availability

Seats are limited. Organizations are encouraged to enroll early and consider sending teams to accelerate adoption and promote shared learning. Additional 2026 workshop dates may be offered based on demand.

 

Program details and workshop registration links are available on the WSU Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks website at: tricities.wsu.edu/continuing-education

 

About Cougar Tracks
Cougar Tracks is the continuing education and workforce development arm of Washington State University Tri-Cities. Through industry-driven programs, community partnerships and accessible learning opportunities, Cougar Tracks connects education to real-world impact—supporting professionals, businesses and communities across the Tri-Cities region.

Local Exhibit Highlights African American History Of East Pasco (Photo) - 02/25/26

PASCO, Wash. — An exhibit in downtown Pasco is bringing renewed attention to the largely overlooked history of East Pasco’s African American community. “Eastside Temporalities,” on display at Cafe con Arte through the end of March, blends art, archival materials and multimedia storytelling to document life in the neighborhood from World War II through the early 1970s.

 

Just blocks from the 150-acre railyard that once divided Pasco along racial lines, the exhibit traces how Black families built a thriving community despite discriminatory housing policies that restricted where they could live. The project is the latest milestone in a multiyear, grant-funded initiative led by Washington State University Tri-Cities faculty in collaboration with community partners.

 

“By 1950, Pasco is about 20 percent Black, which per capita, is one of the largest Black populations in the West Coast,” said Robert Franklin, WSU Tri-Cities assistant professor of history and associate director of the Hanford History Project. “But it’s relegated to East Pasco.”

 

Franklin, the project’s principal investigator, has spent nearly a decade gathering photos, essays, oral histories and personal artifacts that anchor the exhibit. The materials illustrate both the opportunities and challenges that shaped the community, from Hanford-related job growth to the lack of basic infrastructure, exclusionary business practices and the impact of sundown policies in the region.

 

The exhibit also highlights stories of resilience, including the rise of Black-owned businesses and community organizing during the civil rights movement, as well as the lasting effects of 1970s urban renewal that displaced many families.

 

As part of the research project, Franklin's team made plans to facilitate two public workshops aimed at community engagement. The first was an Aug. 30 mapping event at Morning Star Baptist Church, the oldest Black church in the Tri-Cities. That event gathered surviving members of the old East Pasco community to mark up a giant map of the neighborhood with the former locations of homes and businesses. The exhibit itself serves as the second workshop, blending historical essays and photos with original artwork by East Pasco-raised photographer and mixed-media artist Joel Nunn-Sparks.

 

“Eastside Temporalities,” also features digital components, including audio and video stories accessible by mobile phone. Kyley Canion-Brewer, a WSU Tri-Cities doctoral candidate and Hanford History Project intern who helped organize the workshops, said the exhibit represents the work and efforts of many contributors, including business owners, WSU Tri-Cities students and more.

 

“This is a labor of love, but it’s very collaborative,” she said. 

 

If future funding allows, the team hopes to develop an interactive web application based on the community mapping project. For now, an artistic rendering of the map is included as part of the exhibit.

 

The exhibit is free and open to the public through March at Cafe con Arte in downtown Pasco. 

 

Additional background information on the history of East Pasco’s African American community can be found on the WSU Tri-Cities website: https://tricities.wsu.edu/local-exhibit-reclaims-the-african-american-history-of-old-east-pasco/

Attached Media Files: The "Eastside Temporalities" exhibit at Cafe con Arte combines historical essays and photos with original artwork by East Pasco mixed-media artist Joel Nunn-Sparks.,

Local Exhibit Highlights African American History Of East Pasco (Photo) - 02/25/26

PASCO, Wash. — An exhibit in downtown Pasco is bringing renewed attention to the largely overlooked history of East Pasco’s African American community. “Eastside Temporalities,” on display at Cafe con Arte through the end of March, blends art, archival materials and multimedia storytelling to document life in the neighborhood from World War II through the early 1970s.

 

Just blocks from the 150-acre railyard that once divided Pasco along racial lines, the exhibit traces how Black families built a thriving community despite discriminatory housing policies that restricted where they could live. The project is the latest milestone in a multiyear, grant-funded initiative led by Washington State University Tri-Cities faculty in collaboration with community partners.

 

“By 1950, Pasco is about 20 percent Black, which per capita, is one of the largest Black populations in the West Coast,” said Robert Franklin, WSU Tri-Cities assistant professor of history and associate director of the Hanford History Project. “But it’s relegated to East Pasco.”

 

Franklin, the project’s principal investigator, has spent nearly a decade gathering photos, essays, oral histories and personal artifacts that anchor the exhibit. The materials illustrate both the opportunities and challenges that shaped the community, from Hanford-related job growth to the lack of basic infrastructure, exclusionary business practices and the impact of sundown policies in the region.

 

The exhibit also highlights stories of resilience, including the rise of Black-owned businesses and community organizing during the civil rights movement, as well as the lasting effects of 1970s urban renewal that displaced many families.

 

As part of the research project, Franklin's team made plans to facilitate two public workshops aimed at community engagement. The first was an Aug. 30 mapping event at Morning Star Baptist Church, the oldest Black church in the Tri-Cities. That event gathered surviving members of the old East Pasco community to mark up a giant map of the neighborhood with the former locations of homes and businesses. The exhibit itself serves as the second workshop, blending historical essays and photos with original artwork by East Pasco-raised photographer and mixed-media artist Joel Nunn-Sparks.

 

“Eastside Temporalities,” also features digital components, including audio and video stories accessible by mobile phone. Kyley Canion-Brewer, a WSU Tri-Cities doctoral candidate and Hanford History Project intern who helped organize the workshops, said the exhibit represents the work and efforts of many contributors, including business owners, WSU Tri-Cities students and more.

 

“This is a labor of love, but it’s very collaborative,” she said. 

 

If future funding allows, the team hopes to develop an interactive web application based on the community mapping project. For now, an artistic rendering of the map is included as part of the exhibit.

 

The exhibit is free and open to the public through March at Cafe con Arte in downtown Pasco. 

 

Additional background information on the history of East Pasco’s African American community can be found on the WSU Tri-Cities website: https://tricities.wsu.edu/local-exhibit-reclaims-the-african-american-history-of-old-east-pasco/

Attached Media Files: The "Eastside Temporalities" exhibit at Cafe con Arte combines historical essays and photos with original artwork by East Pasco mixed-media artist Joel Nunn-Sparks.,

Washington State University, Tri-Cities Celebrates 40th Annual National TRIO Day, Honoring Student Achievement And Educational Opportunity - 02/19/26

Richland, WA —Washington State University Tri-Cities will join colleges and universities across the United States in celebrating the 40th annual National TRIO Day which falls on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, recognizing the transformative impact of the Federal TRIO Programs and honoring the achievements of first-generation, income-eligible students, students with disabilities, and veterans pursuing higher education.

 

Established by Congress in 1986, National TRIO Day encourages communities to focus on educational access, academic persistence, and the power of college opportunity to change lives and strengthen the nation. This event celebrates the work of the Federal TRIO Programs, which were first created through the landmark Higher Education Act to remove barriers to postsecondary education.

 

As part of the celebration, Washington State University Tri-Cities’ TRIO SSS programs will host a recognition ceremony and networking event, on from 9 – 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 27 in the Consolidated Information Center room 120. The event will honor students’ accomplishments, alumni will share their success stories, and campus leadership will highlight ongoing support for student achievement. The event will bring together students, alumni, campus leaders, and community partners to highlight success stories, deepen public understanding of TRIO’s mission, and promote a culture of educational opportunity.

 

“TRIO students are driven scholars, engaging with real-world problems, and preparing themselves to make a lasting impact in their fields and communities,” said Alondra Castaneda, program director for TRIO SSS Classic, STEM and Health Science Programs “National TRIO Day is our opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, acknowledge their hard work, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every student has the support and resources to achieve their academic and career goals.”

 

“For forty years, National TRIO Day has served as a powerful reminder that talent is universal, but opportunity is not,” said Kimberly Jones, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE). “This milestone year honors the millions of students and alumni who have turned their dreams into degrees, careers, and lifelong contributions to their communities. As we celebrate this anniversary, we recommit ourselves to protecting and strengthening TRIO so future generations can continue to thrive.”

 

WSU Tri-Cities currently serves 260 TRIO students through Student Support Services. TRIO programs provide academic guidance, tutoring, advising, mentoring, college readiness services, financial aid support, and career development opportunities for eligible students.

 

Nationally, TRIO serves more than 800,000 individuals each year, including middle school, high school, and college students, adult learners, veterans, and graduate scholars.

 

National TRIO Day began in 1986 when Congress passed a resolution recognizing the Federal TRIO Programs and calling for a National Day of Celebration, community service, and advocacy in support of students who face systemic barriers to higher education. This year marks the fortieth annual National TRIO Day and celebrates the legacy of programs that have helped more than six million students earn college degrees.

 

For more information about WSU Tri-Cities’ National TRIO Day events or to learn more about TRIO services on campus, please contact TRIO Student Support Services at tricities.trio@wsu.edu.

Washington State University, Tri-Cities Celebrates 40th Annual National TRIO Day, Honoring Student Achievement And Educational Opportunity - 02/19/26

Richland, WA —Washington State University Tri-Cities will join colleges and universities across the United States in celebrating the 40th annual National TRIO Day which falls on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, recognizing the transformative impact of the Federal TRIO Programs and honoring the achievements of first-generation, income-eligible students, students with disabilities, and veterans pursuing higher education.

 

Established by Congress in 1986, National TRIO Day encourages communities to focus on educational access, academic persistence, and the power of college opportunity to change lives and strengthen the nation. This event celebrates the work of the Federal TRIO Programs, which were first created through the landmark Higher Education Act to remove barriers to postsecondary education.

 

As part of the celebration, Washington State University Tri-Cities’ TRIO SSS programs will host a recognition ceremony and networking event, on from 9 – 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 27 in the Consolidated Information Center room 120. The event will honor students’ accomplishments, alumni will share their success stories, and campus leadership will highlight ongoing support for student achievement. The event will bring together students, alumni, campus leaders, and community partners to highlight success stories, deepen public understanding of TRIO’s mission, and promote a culture of educational opportunity.

 

“TRIO students are driven scholars, engaging with real-world problems, and preparing themselves to make a lasting impact in their fields and communities,” said Alondra Castaneda, program director for TRIO SSS Classic, STEM and Health Science Programs “National TRIO Day is our opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, acknowledge their hard work, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every student has the support and resources to achieve their academic and career goals.”

 

“For forty years, National TRIO Day has served as a powerful reminder that talent is universal, but opportunity is not,” said Kimberly Jones, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE). “This milestone year honors the millions of students and alumni who have turned their dreams into degrees, careers, and lifelong contributions to their communities. As we celebrate this anniversary, we recommit ourselves to protecting and strengthening TRIO so future generations can continue to thrive.”

 

WSU Tri-Cities currently serves 260 TRIO students through Student Support Services. TRIO programs provide academic guidance, tutoring, advising, mentoring, college readiness services, financial aid support, and career development opportunities for eligible students.

 

Nationally, TRIO serves more than 800,000 individuals each year, including middle school, high school, and college students, adult learners, veterans, and graduate scholars.

 

National TRIO Day began in 1986 when Congress passed a resolution recognizing the Federal TRIO Programs and calling for a National Day of Celebration, community service, and advocacy in support of students who face systemic barriers to higher education. This year marks the fortieth annual National TRIO Day and celebrates the legacy of programs that have helped more than six million students earn college degrees.

 

For more information about WSU Tri-Cities’ National TRIO Day events or to learn more about TRIO services on campus, please contact TRIO Student Support Services at tricities.trio@wsu.edu.