American Association of Women in Community Colleges

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Presidents Corner
By Shirley Anderson

On recent walks through my neighborhood Ive enjoyed the sunshine, blue sky, blooming crocus, budding tulips and daffodils, weeds, and other signs of spring. Spring, the time of renewal and reawakened beauty, makes me thankful to be living in Oregon.

As I reflect on renewal and reawakened beauty, Oregon AAWCC activities often come to mind. The most recent activity, the 14^th annual conference held last November, brings memories of: inspiring keynote speakers; the exciting breakout sessions covering a myriad of topics; the outstanding Oregon women who were honored; the auction and karaoke night; and the friendly, inspiring women who attended the conference. Over 150 women from fifteen community colleges, Oregon Community College Association, and the Department of Community Colleges and Workforce Development gathered for an emotional journey. This is a journey of awareness, understanding, introspection, joy, and celebration.

Each year, the conference provides an opportunity for Oregon women to share their knowledge, experiences, talents, and passions. Community college women are making a difference. Women from throughout the state are taking a stand on important issues, seeking the opportunity to mentor others, stepping forward to provide leadership within their respective institutions, offering their time and energy to assist others, and making sure women within their institution are supported and recognized. During the conference these women shared their stories, wisdom, and talents with conference participants. Through these shared experiences, connections, energy, appreciation, understanding, and respect developed.

Two other AAWCC sponsored activities provide opportunities for renewal. First, OILD (Oregon Institute for Leadership Development), a summer experience. Women gather for four days to reflect, learn, discuss, listen, apply concepts, and have fun. A core component of the Institute is the opportunity for

participants to interact with one another and with other women who have had to struggle with many of the same issues as the participants. Oregon women learning from other Oregon women is an energizing and powerful experience.

Second, in the middle of summer a one-day AAWCC conference provides a respite from the high-energy summer activities. It is a time for forming and renewing friendships, making connections, learning, discussion, and humor. Planned around a theme, the presenter/facilitator guides the participants through a learning process. The environment is conducive for women to share experiences and gain new insights.

Each of these activities has common elements that create an atmosphere for renewal: energy, shared experiences, introspection, discussion, networking, learning, humor, and fun. Another core element is Oregon women learning from other Oregon women. This is an opportunity for Oregon women to "shine," to be recognized for the talents they each possess and the rich experiences they openly share. I am thankful for the Oregon spring, but Im also very thankful for Oregon AAWCC and the opportunities for growth and renewal the organization provides.

Spilde To Be Lanes Next President

By Joan Aschim, Lane Community College

A standing-room-only boardroom of onlookers burst into cheers and applause Wednesday night January 10, 2001 when Dr. Mary Spilde was announced as Lanes next president. "We strove for the best, and we found the best," said Board of Education Chair Robert Ackerman, who noted that selecting a president is the most profound and significant action any board can make. Announcement of the unanimous resolution was followed by a break for congratulations and hugs, including those from Spildes husband, 17-year-old son, and 12-year-old daughter.

Spilde thanked her family and a long list of members of the college community for their support, including crediting President Jerry Moskus as a mentor and a great boss. She will take over as Lanes eighth president on August 15. "Im really looking forward to helping, with everybody elses help, to maintain the good work that weve done in the past and to continue to be a really progressive, excellent college," Spilde said. "Im thrilled."

Spilde was hired as vice president of instruction at Lane in 1995 and was named vice president of instruction and student services in 1997. She currently oversees lower-division credit programs, 14 professional-technical programs, developmental education, and student services. She is accountable for a $38 million budget and 350 employees. In addition to her college duties, Spilde is an evaluator for the Northwest Commission for Schools and Colleges accreditation authority, vice president of resource development for the board of the American Association of Women in Community Colleges, and president of the National Institute for Leadership Development Foundation. She has served on numerous other organizations at the local, state, regional and national levels. Before Lane, she served at Linn-Benton Community College for 15 years, working her way up to dean of business, training and health occupations after starting out as an instructor-coordinator of a pre-employment training program. She holds a doctorate in education and a masters in education from Oregon State University and has a bachelors in social science and a law degree from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland.

Dont Be So Defensive!
Taking the War Out of Our Words with Powerful Non-Defensive Communication

with Sharon Ellison, Author & Speaker

Friday, July 20, 2001 ~ Umpqua Community College, Roseburg, Oregon

The 2001 Summer Retreat will feature a "hands on" workshop facilitated by our friend Sharon Ellison. Sharon will offer participants to dig deeper into the concepts of Non-Defensive communication skills and techniques. Sharon is a well-known author and speaker and has participated as a presenter and keynoter at numerous AAWCC events in addition to her work as a lecturer and consultant. Participation in the workshop will offer you an opportunity to achieve professional success, gain genuine intimacy, strengthen parenting skills, and enhance your interactions with others. This powerful process is nothing short of revolutionary because for centuries we have been taught that communication is the art of winning arguments. The non-defensive process replaces the aggressive, traditional model with one that gives each person an ability to communicate effectively, without becoming trapped in a power struggle. This process has unlimited potential for application in strengthening all interpersonal relationships, increased organizational effectiveness, and contributing to building a more productive, honest, and harmonious society. When used with compassion, thoughtfulness, and respect, language becomes a powerful tool for liberation. Join Sharon and a group of AAWCC friends on July 20^th for an exciting, challenging, and fun day learning how to enhance your communication.

The cost for this one-day workshop is $75 per person, which includes lunch. Complete the registration form on page 4 and submit it to Lisa Tomlin at Clackamas Community College by Friday, July 6, 2001.

If you wish to stay overnight in Roseburg, there are numerous possibilities. Some of the motels in Roseburg are the Holiday Inn (800-898-7666), Best Western Garden (800-547-3446), and Comfort Inn (800-221-2222). You will need to make your own overnight arrangements.

Please contact Lisa Tomlin, VP of Special Projects, at 503-657-6958 x3140 or lisat@clackamas.cc.or.us for more information regarding the Summer Retreat or overnight accommodations.