Feb 8, 2024 | Community, Curry Campus, Curry News, News
Coos Bay, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College is excited to launch our new Chemistry Lecture Series, presenting a lecture by Dr. Cory Brooks, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Fresno State, who will discuss “Cancer Immunotherapy – Does the Science Match the Hype?”. Please join us on Friday, March 15, 2024, at 6:00 pm. This is a free event; all ages are welcome.
Coos County residents can join us in-person in the Umpqua Hall lecture room 184 on the Coos Campus, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay.
Curry County residents can join us for a watch party in the Community Room on the Curry Campus, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings.
About the lecture:
At the end of the 19th century German physician Paul Ehrlich dreamed of a “magic bullet” that would specifically eliminate disease without harming the body. More than a century later, this dream has become a reality. Scientists have harnessed the incredible ability of the immune system to destroy disease. Monoclonal antibodies are immune proteins that bind and eradicate disease using a variety of mechanisms. In 1986, the first monoclonal antibody was approved for human treatment. Now in 2024, with approximately 250 billion dollars in sales last year, more than 160 monoclonal antibodies on the market, and hundreds more in clinical trials for the treatment of everything from arthritis to cancer, we may be on the cusp of a new era of antibody-based immunotherapy. By drawing on examples from the literature and research in the Brooks lab at Fresno State, this talk will explore what basic research can tell us about the promise and flaws of antibody therapy.
About the presenter:
Dr. Brooks obtained a Ph.D. from the University of Victoria (2005-2010) and was a postdoc at the University of Alberta (2010-2013). He has been a faculty member at Fresno State since 2013 and his research program at Fresno State uses structural biology to understand fundamental aspects of antibody-antigen recognition. Dr. Brooks also teaches a variety of biochemistry courses.
For those unable to attend in-person, the talk will be streamed live through Southwestern’s YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/@SouthwesternOR/streams.
For more information about the lecture series contact Derek Morrelli, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, at 541-888-1507, derek.morrelli@socc.edu.
For information about studying chemistry at Southwestern visit: https://www.socc.edu/chemistry/.
Jan 29, 2024 | News, Student Success
Coos Bay, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College wishes to congratulate our S.P.E.A.R. (STEAM Pathways Experimental & Academic Research) Team Member Cameron Miller for being selected for a 2023-24 Oregon NASA Space Grant Consortium (OSGC) Student Academic Research Review (STARR) award in the amount of $3,000 for Nuclear Propulsion research. Cameron is currently a sophomore Mechanical Engineering student at Southwestern and plans to transfer into the Nuclear Engineering program at Oregon State University (OSU) after he graduates. For his research project, Cameron will be investigating the current state of research into nuclear propulsion systems with particular applications to aerospace.
About the research, Cameron says, “As a nuclear engineering student, gaining experience within my discipline can be challenging. Many professional opportunities are out of reach for undergraduates and are location exclusive. As for personal projects, things that combine “homemade” and “nuclear” are typically frowned upon by the government. To study within my discipline for an award backed by NASA is such an exceptional opportunity, and I’m incredibly thankful for it.”
The Oregon NASA Space Grant Consortium opens the Student Academic Research Review (STARR) program to give undergraduate STEM students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with ongoing research in their field of interest. Program participants are asked to create a 6-8 page research paper on the topic of their choice working with a faculty mentor. These papers will become a published document and will be made available to all the space grants across the U.S. The student research must be related to the research goals of NASA.
“Cameron will write a paper explaining what the current research is on his chosen topic. It’s literally a student academic review of research being conducted by NASA, and it’s counted as a published scientific article for NASA,” says Dr. Aaron Coyner, Associate Professor, Engineering and Physics at Southwestern, and Cameron’s instructor.
Students will be invited to present their findings at the spring OSGC student symposium held at Oregon State University. Southwestern will also present a symposium of student work during spring term.
“OSGC is pleased to support this unique opportunity to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the research review process to help students be better prepared for future hands-on research opportunities,” Catherine Lanier, OSGC Director shared.
About the Oregon Space Grant Consortium (OSGC)
The Oregon Space Grant Consortium, part of the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program, is a state-wide network of universities, colleges, museums, educators, researchers, students, and science professionals. OSGC promotes STEM education through cooperative and interdisciplinary programs while recruiting and training NASA’s next diverse workforce.
https://spacegrant.oregonstate.edu/
For the last seven years, Dr. Aaron Coyner, Associate Professor of Physics, and Krystal Hopper-Meyers, Oregon NASA Space Grant Consortium PRISMS Project Coordinator, have been Southwestern’s OSGC Affiliate Representatives. OSGC has been an incredible supporter and resource for the College.
For more information about the Oregon NASA Space Grand Consortium or physics and engineering degrees at Southwestern contact Krystal Hopper-Meyers at 541-888-7416, or krystal.hopper@socc.edu.
Jan 25, 2024 | Community, News
COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College invites 3rd to 6th grade students to join us for “STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) FOR KIDS” on Tuesday, February 6, 2024. This science-immersion event will be from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm in the College’s health and science building, Umpqua Hall, on the Coos Campus, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay.
Students will engage with professors in hands-on activities in physics and engineering, chemistry, geology, art, and more. This includes working alongside the College’s S.P.E.A.R. (which stands for STEAM Pathways Experimental & Academic Research) student researchers, who are involved in various STEAM projects.
There will also be an opportunity to experience a show in our new Discovery Dome Planetarium. This digital theater space immerses students in a presentation that takes them on an adventure.
STEAM education projects help students visualize career pathways in science, technology, engineering, and math. The “A” adds in the arts, such as humanities, dance, drama, visual arts, and design. When people learn in all these areas together, they gain soft skills that can help them grow ability in out-of-the-box thinking and collaboration.
Cost is $25 per person and limited to 15 spots. Scholarships are available. For more information on this and future events, registration, and scholarships contact Krystal Hopper Meyers, STEAM Pathways Assistant, at 541-888-7416, or krystal.hopper@socc.edu.
Jan 23, 2024 | Community, News
Coos Bay, OR – In celebration of Black History Month, Southwestern Oregon Community College’s IDEA Committee (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access) is sponsoring a free showing of the film Malcolm X at the Egyptian Theatre, 229 S. Broadway, Coos Bay. The film will begin at 6 pm on February 22, 2024 with doors opening at 5:30 pm.
The critically acclaimed biography, directed by Spike Lee and featuring Denzel Washington’s Academy Award-nominated performance, shows the life of a man who played a central role in a time of significant social change. The film provides an excellent portrayal of an often-misunderstood leader in the U.S. Civil Rights Movement who has garnered both praise and fear in his time and beyond.
Although admission is free to anyone, money donations will be accepted and appreciated. Half of all donations for the film will go toward “THE SPOT,” Southwestern’s free student pantry where current students can get food, hygiene and personal care supplies, as well as additional resources, at no charge. Additional donations will go to the Egyptian Theatre.
Information on Southwestern’s programs and steps for admission to the College will also be available in the lobby of the theater from 5:30-6 pm.
For more information contact Forrest Akers, Assistant Director of International Recruitment, Admissions & Services, at 541-888-7185, forrest.akers@socc.edu.
Jan 19, 2024 | Community, Curry Campus, News
Brookings, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College Curry Campus invites the community to join us on Thursday, February 8, 2024, 12:00 to 1:00 pm for: BIRDS OF THE SOUTH COAST.
This presentation will be given by Tom Bozack, a retired aerospace engineer who moved to Brookings with his wife Linda in 2007. His interest in photography began as a youth living in central Michigan. He has owned several 35mm cameras over the years before switching to digital in 1999. He photographs whatever seems interesting, including wildlife, sunsets, waves, buildings, insects, and of course, birds. More recently, he has photographed birds that he and Linda see on their daily walks, especially at the Port of Brookings-Harbor.
Ann Vileisis, president of the Kalmiopsis Audubon Society, which is Curry County’s locally based bird and wildlife habitat conservation group, will also speak. A life-long bird and nature enthusiast, Ann will talk about our distinctive south coast birds and ways to see and enjoy them. The mission of the Audubon Society is to protect the extraordinary and diverse natural habitats of southwest Oregon including old-growth forests, stunning coastlines, and wild rivers — for birds, fish, wildlife, and future generations.
Tom’s photographs are stunning, and the expertise of the Audubon representative is a great combination.
This is a free program sponsored by the Friends of Curry Campus and will be held in the Community Room on Southwestern’s Curry Campus, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway (off Highway 101), Brookings. Bring a friend and a brown bag lunch.
Stay tuned for upcoming talks in our speaker series. Talks during winter term will focus on the nature all around us. For more information contact the Curry Campus at 541-813-1667.
Jan 17, 2024 | Alumni, Curry Campus, Foundation, News
COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College is seeking the community’s help to honor graduates who have gone on after college to improve their professions, education, communities, and the world. Each year since 1992, the College has requested nominations for a distinguished alumni.
The College is accepting nominations for 2024 through April 1. To be eligible, nominees must have graduated with a degree or certificate, or have completed a minimum of 60 credits from Southwestern.
Past recipients have included leaders in education, the arts, Native American tribes, business and finance, research, health care, and the military. Today, Southwestern’s graduates continue to distinguish themselves in professions and innovative efforts to build friendships around the globe. The College wants to celebrate these individuals who have contributed selflessly to improving society. Please consider nominating alumni for the recognition they deserve.
To read more about past recipients, go to Alumni News at www.socc.edu/alumni-news/.
To download the nomination form, go to:
https://www.socc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/dist_alumni_nom_fillable.pdf
Please submit nomination forms by April 1 to: alumni@socc.edu
Or mail them to:
Southwestern Oregon Community College
c/o President’s Office
1988 Newmark Ave.
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Jan 12, 2024 | Community, News, OCCI News, Staff & Administration
Enter the captivating world of competitive ice carving through “From Oregon to Alaska: An ice sculpting odyssey” an Oregon Field Guide exclusive short film profiling Chef Chris Foltz, Chef Instructor here at Southwestern’s Oregon Coast Culinary Institute.
The episode, which aired on Oregon Public Broadcasting on December 7, 2023, showcases Chef Foltz’s artistry, dedication, and passion for the craft. We get a behind the scenes look at this world-famous competition and watch the joy and excitement of the student carvers creating their unique pieces as well.
Regarding the competition, Chef Foltz says, “Alaska, it’s so far away. It costs a lot to get there, it’s an immense amount of work, and then when you get there, all of your work is going to melt away. But as a professional artist, it’s the one place that I get to go and do whatever I want to do.”
Stay tuned for updates as Chef Foltz and a new crop of student carvers prepares for this year’s World Ice Art Championship “Ice Alaska” in February.
Jan 9, 2024 | Community, Curry Campus, Foundation, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – The Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation is pleased to announce the annual scholarship application period is now open. Any credit-seeing student thinking of attending Southwestern during the 2024-25 academic year is encouraged to apply January 1 – March 1, 2024, at www.socc.edu/scholarships.
With just one application, both part-time and full-time students can apply to more than 100 scholarships offered. Applications submitted by 11:59 pm on February 1, 2024, will be eligible to qualify for a $1,000 “early bird” scholarship. All scholarship applications are due by 11:59 pm on March 1, 2024. There are no exceptions to this strict deadline.
Thanks to generous donors in our local communities, the Southwestern Foundation awards more than $250,000 in scholarships annually to support students pursuing their education at Southwestern.
All information is available at www.socc.edu/scholarships. For additional help, join one of our drop-in Financial Aid and Scholarship workshops. Representatives will be on-site, readily available to address questions and walk students through various aspects of applying.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Drop-In Workshop Dates:
- Coos Campus, Tioga 301 (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay):
- January 26th @ 2 – 4 pm
- January 29th @ 11 – 1 pm
- January 31st @ 5 – 7 pm
- February 9th @ 4 – 6 pm
- February 14th @ 11 – 1 pm
- February 28th @ 2 – 4 pm
- Curry Campus (96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings):
- January 25th @ 10:30 – 2:30 pm
- February 12 @ 10:30 – 2:30 pm
Guided by a board of community volunteers, the Southwestern Foundation organized as a nonprofit organization in 1962, the year after the college started. Since then, thousands of students have attended the college using Foundation scholarships. These awards help students achieve their goals, by breaking down barriers and cultivating the next generation of leaders, thinkers and innovators in local communities, the state and around the world. If you are interested in donating to Southwestern Foundation scholarships visit www.socc.edu/give or call 541-888-7211 for additional information.
For any additional inquiries about the Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation scholarships, please reach out via email at foundation@socc.edu or by phone at 541-888-7209.
Jan 8, 2024 | Community, Foundation, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – The Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation in collaboration with the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) invites guests 21 years and older to attend Uncorking Opportunity! on Friday, February 23, 2024. The event takes place 6-8 p.m., at OCCI, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay.
This is the Southwestern Foundation’s annual scholarship fundraiser. It will be an exciting evening full of fun conversation and delectable hors d’oeuvres specially paired with Oregon wines provided by well-known wineries from the Rogue, Umpqua and Willamette Valleys. The event also features both a silent and small live auction of adventures celebrating food, fun and friends.
Tickets are $95 per person, available at HERE. Thanks to sponsor support, 100 percent of ticket proceeds go to scholarships at the culinary institute and students pursuing degrees and training at Southwestern’s Coos and Curry campuses.
This year’s sponsors to-date include: Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Banner Bank, Coos Bay Vision Center, Northwest Natural, Pacific Power, The Mill Casino Hotel and The Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission among others.
Examples of some of the auction adventure items include:
- Tickets to an exclusive Winemaker’ Dinner featuring Willamette Valley Vineyards and OCCI taking place May 2024
- Private OCCI Group Cooking Class
- Hot Air Balloon Ride for Two
- One-Week Stay in Hawaii
- “Name Your Own” Scholarship
…and so much more!
Space is limited! It is highly recommended people secure tickets in advance. Reservations are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. To purchase tickets, go to www.socc.edu/give. For more information, contact the Southwestern Foundation at 541-888-7209 or email foundation@socc.edu.
SWOCC Foundation Uncorking Opportunity! Event Overview:
**Important: Guests must be 21+ years old**
- Date/Time: Friday, February 23, 2024 from 6-8 p.m.
- Location: OCCI, 1988 Newmark Ave. Coos Bay, OR
- RSVP: Reservations are highly encouraged as space is limited. Secure your spot by purchasing at socc.edu/give. Call 541-888-7209 or email foundation@socc.edu.
- Cost: $95 per person – Includes 6+ wine & hors d’oeuvre pairings; access to silent/live auction and an evening of fun conversation with OCCI student chefs. 100% of ticket proceeds goes directly to student scholarships.
About the Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation
Since 1962, the Southwestern Foundation has supported the College to improve people’s lives – socially, culturally, economically and educationally – through friend-raising and fundraising. The College serves Curry, Coos and western Douglas county residents’ needs for transfer degrees, high-skill job training and community classes. For more information about the foundation, visit www.socc.edu/foundation.
Jan 8, 2024 | Community, Curry Campus, News
Coos Bay, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College is excited to present a lecture by Dr. Xavier Siemens, North American Nanohertz Observatory for Gravitational Waves Physics Frontier Center Co-Director and Professor of Physics at Oregon State University who will discuss Observational Evidence for a Gravitational Wave Background, on Friday, January 26, 2024, at 6:30 pm. This is a free event; all ages are welcome.
Coos County residents can join us in-person in the Umpqua Hall lecture room 184 on the Coos Campus, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay.
Curry County residents can join us for a watch party in the Community Room on the Curry Campus, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings.
Join us as Oregon State University Physics Professor Dr. Xavier Siemens talks about the latest discoveries around Gravitational Waves. He will discuss the evidence from the NANOGrav 15-year dataset, a North American research project using telescopes to study low-frequency pulsar signals. Scientists hope to use that research to further observations of the largest black holes in the universe.
Dr. Xavier Siemens is a Professor of Physics at Oregon State University bringing his gravitational wave research to Oregon from his previous experience at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He received a National Science Foundation Career award in 2010 to continue his team’s work in gravitational wave astronomy. He has been a contributing author to more than 250 papers and has recently focus on multi-messenger astronomy to address many of the overarching big problems in the field.
For those unable to attend in-person, the talk will be streamed live through Southwestern’s YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLyo3uIvZEJLAv9maSe_aO8naW3ypdjEO.
For more information about the lecture series contact Dr. Aaron Coyner, Associate Professor of Physics, at 541-888-7244, aaron.coyner@socc.edu.
