CLEARLAKE— Dean of Lake County Campus and Distance Education Co-Chair Ingrid Larsen presented on the status of Woodland Community College, including updates on their current programs, financial aid opportunities and recently added classes at this week’s Judge’s Breakfast. Accompanying Larsen was Dr. Santanu Bandyopadhyay, Interim President at the college.
Bandyopadhyay recently stepped into the interim president position coming from a background in teaching and marketing, and was the former president of Cypress, Columbia, and Modesto Colleges. Bandyopadhyay earned his masters and doctoral degree from the University of Ohio.
Larsen was raised in Lake County and raised her children here, working as an educator and counselor for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Larsen shared “I am excited to get to put some of my creativity in my new role as Dean.” Her presentation began with a broad description of different types of students and their individual needs including returning adult learners who may need to start with their high school equivalency or may be undocumented, high school students who can attend college classes in school or at LCC, and students seeking certifications, degrees or future transfers.
According to Larsen, part of their student approach is providing guided pathways for students to transition into careers easily. Their most popular classes are pre-health, early childhood education, culinary arts, accounting and business administration, welding, environmental and water tech, human services, and chemical dependency counseling. Some certificates can be earned with only four or six classes and since the covid 19 pandemic the college has continued to offer many classes online and are seeing an increase in enrollment.
Bandyopadhyay noted, “Some students say they like the convenience of online class, others say they feel isolated, its opposite ends of the spectrum. It depends on the students’ individual needs.” The college takes careful consideration of which classes can be taught virtually with Bandyopadhyay further stating “Should I give my car to a person who has learned how to service brakes watching you tube videos? I don’t want to give my car to that guy, you have to learn that on campus.”
The LCC has put a focus on “Caring Campus Culture” where the college strives to “Meet you where you are at with timely supports” according to Larsen. This process begins in assisting with online applications and applying for financial aid, then providing academic support for various learning styles and access to tutoring.
The campus operates a Basic Needs Center to address the students’ immediate need for food and household items including diapers and clothing at no cost. This center is also open to the public. LCC Adult Education Specialist Mary Wilson shared “We are serving over 200 community members and students a month.” Access to online therapy is available for all students as their emotional wellbeing is key to success. Larsen mentioned “Lake County students represent 25% of the clients receiving the Communicare Health online behavioral health services” Lastly, they provide financial support beyond financial aid including the Clearlake Promise Grant while also providing free transportation via Lake Transit.
The LCC is celebrating Women’s History Month Thursday March 9 from 12 to 1 p.m. with a community panel and guest speakers as well as lunch available for purchase from Aroma’s Cafe. On Wednesday April 19 from 4 to 7 p.m. LCC is hosting an open house inviting the public to come on campus and check out the classrooms, the programs, and of course, the new sign. They are also hosting a “Wildflower Walk with the Dean” on Saturday April 22 at 9 a.m. which is also in celebration of Earth Day. This event is being held at Six Sigma Ranch in Lower Lake and a suggested $25 donation includes wine tasting for participants over 21. More information can be found on their website wcc.yccd.edu/lake.
The Judge’s Breakfast is held every Thursday at 7 a.m. in the Clearlake Senior Center. Several breakfast options are available for purchase but is not required for participation. More information can be found on their Facebook page.
