Campus Weekly
Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair is a wrap
Santa Fe Community College welcomed a strong turnout for its annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair on Saturday, December 13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The popular event filled the Main Hallway and Campus Center with more than 100 New Mexico artists and craftspeople offering handcrafted jewelry, pottery, paintings, woodcarvings, handmade ornaments, and other unique gifts.
Artists traveled from across the region, including Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, and nearby pueblos, creating a vibrant showcase of local creativity just in time for the holidays. With free admission and parking, the fair provided an accessible and festive shopping experience for the community.
SFCC extends sincere thanks to Conference Services staff members Chad Gasper and Nocona Burgess for organizing the event, and to Marketing and Public Relations’ Ben Lauer for capturing photos of the day.
Holiday Open House at the SFCC Higher Education Center
The Santa Fe Community College Higher Education Center hosted a warm and festive Holiday Open House on December 4, 2025, bringing together community members, business partners, the SFCC Executive Team and Governing Board, and our dedicated instructors. The event served as a heartfelt expression of appreciation for the many individuals and organizations that support the Continuing Education & Workforce Development Department’s mission throughout the year.
The Open House was well attended, creating a lively atmosphere filled with conversation, connection, and celebration. Guests were treated to a special musical performance by Dr. Andy Lovato—SFCC adjunct faculty member and Santa Fe City Historian—whose guitar playing added an extra touch of magic to the evening.
This event was proudly sponsored by the Santa Fe Creative Coding Initiative, whose support helped make the celebration both memorable and meaningful.
News and Announcements
- SFCC and SF Higher Education Center to close for Winter Break December 20 through January 4
- SFCC Announces Fall 2025 Dean’s List
- Upcoming network maintenance
- Free 3D Printing course in January at the HEC
- Our Home Gardens: 12 New Mexico Fine Art Photographers” opening reception from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, January 22
- SFCC offers free English as a Second Language Classes January 26-May 7
- Vice Chair Piér Quintana honored for service
- SFCC celebrates Graduate Nurse Pinning Ceremony
- Continuing Education Spring 26 registration now open
- Therapy Dogs bring finals week stress relief to SFCC Library
- Library Announces Winter Interim Hours
- Pushcart Prize Nominees: Santa Fe Literary Review
- Swing Shift Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 17 in FEC
- Registration for Spring 2026 semester now open
- Register for The Rewriting Room session on Dec. 19
SFCC and SF Higher Education Center to close for Winter Break December 20 through January 4
Santa Fe Community College (SFCC), 6401 Richards Avenue, and the Santa Fe Higher Education Center (HEC), 1950 Siringo Road, will close for Winter Break from Saturday, December 20 through Sunday, January 4. All campus facilities will be closed. No classes, activities or student services will be available. SFCC’s early childhood development center Kids Campus and the William C. Witter Fitness Education Center also will be closed.
SFCC, SF Higher Education Center, and Kids Campus will reopen with regular hours on Monday, January 5. SFCC’s William C. Witter Fitness Education Center will reopen at 6:30 a.m. on Monday, January 5.
Don’t forget to set your away messages, turn off lights, and clean out department refrigerators before you leave! Have a wonderful break!
SFCC Announces Fall 2025 Dean’s List
Congratulations to these Santa Fe Community College students on the Dean’s List who maintained a grade point average of 3.5 or higher!
See the full list: https://www.sfcc.edu/press/santa-fe-community-college-announces-deans-list-for-fall-2025/
Upcoming network maintenance
As part of ongoing efforts to maintain a secure and reliable network environment, OIT will be conducting three scheduled network maintenance events over the coming weeks. Each event may result in brief or intermittent network, internet, and VPN service interruptions.
Maintenance Windows:
- HEC network maintenance beginning at 6 p.m. Monday, December 15
- Main campus network maintenance beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 17
- Main campus network maintenance beginning at 8 p.m. Tuesday, January 6
If you have any questions, please contact the OIT Service Desk in room 528, 505-428-1222.
Free 3D Printing course in January at the HEC
Free class runs Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Tuesday, January 20
January 12-30, from 5-7 p.m. at the SF HEC
SFCC is offering a free, hands-on introductory course in digital design and 3D printing January 12-30, 2026, at the SFCC Higher Education Center, 1950 Siringo Rd., Santa Fe.
The course, Intro to Digital Design and FDM 3D Printing (ID#7467), will meet from 5 to 7 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, January 12-30. Because the college will be closed for the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday on Monday, January 19, that session will be held instead on Tuesday, January 20. Participants will gain an introduction to digital design, apply principles of design in Tinkercad software, and learn to operate a variety of fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printers through small, hands-on project-based sessions. The course is open to students age 12 and up, of any skill level, and tuition is free.
“This class is a great opportunity for anyone curious about digital fabrication or interested in exploring creative and practical uses of 3D printing,” said Monique Anair, Ed.D., Director of Workforce Development at SFCC. “Students will gain confidence working with modern tools that have applications in manufacturing, art, education, and beyond.”
To enroll, visit Intro to Digital Design and FDM 3D Printing NM Gro. For more information, contact instructor Isabel Rodriguez at irodriguez1@sfcc.edu or call 505-428-1060.
SFCC Visual Arts Gallery opens “Our Home Gardens: 12 New Mexico Fine Art Photographers” with a reception from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, January 22
The exhibition continues through Wednesday, February 18
SFCC Visual Arts Gallery opens “Our Home Gardens: 12 New Mexico Fine Art Photographers” with a reception from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, January 22. The exhibition will continue through February 18. The Visual Arts Gallery is in the Fine Arts Center on campus, 6401 Richards Ave.
Director of Art on Campus Linda Cassel said, “SFCC is very fortunate to present this exhibition, which is co-curated by Sage Paisner and Laurie Tümer. The two distinguished photographers are also dedicated instructors at the college.” Paisner is the lead faculty member for the Photography program. Tümer is a long-time adjunct faculty member who has taught many art history and photography classes.
The 12 exhibiting fine art photographers in the exhibition are Marilyn Conway. Steve Fitch, Sondra Goodwin, Elsa Lopez, Doris Page, Sage Paisner, Janet Russek, Isabel Winson-Sagan, Sharon Stewart, Nancy Sutor, Laurie Tümer and Sylvia Ernestina Vergara.
Laurie Tümer, who developed the concept for the exhibition, said, “Each artist offers a unique take on the home garden—from dinosaurs and neon signs that blend into the landscape to home gardens that feed the artists and their community. We find peace in our home gardens and in pictures of them. In these perilous times, those who care for their home gardens and who are artists cultivate hope, tenacity, and joy in the face of heartache—qualities that have always been essential for human survival.”
A virtual catalog, which will include biographies and artist statements, will be accessible through a QR code prominently displayed at the exhibition.
The Visual Arts Gallery in the Fine Arts Center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information about the exhibition or the gallery, contact Art on Campus Director Linda Cassel via email at linda.cassel@sfcc.edu or call 505-428-1501.
SFCC offers free English as a Second Language Classes January 26-May 7
Required orientation and registration sessions on January 12, 13 and 14
Do you or someone you know want to learn English as a Second Language? Whether you speak no English at all, only know a little, or even if you know a lot of English, SFCC has classes for you.
Santa Fe Community College will offer a free 14-week English as a Second Language (ESL) session from January 26 to May 7 to any adult who wants to learn English. New students must attend an orientation session to register for classes. The orientation session will include testing and placement as well as registration for the courses. The classes are free. Classes will be in person at the SFCC Main Campus or at Sweeney Elementary School.
How to Register:
Attend an orientation at the SFCC Main Campus, 6401 Richards Ave.
Orientation Schedule
Orientation sessions begin at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. (no late arrivals) on the following dates:
- Monday, January 12
- Tuesday, January 13
- Wednesday, January 14
Orientations are limited to 30 participants. Arrive on time. Only future students may be present. Additional guests will not be permitted in the orientation area.
Classes meet twice a week, on Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays depending on the level. Morning and evening classes are available at SFCC. Evening classes will be offered at Sweeney Elementary School. Free childcare for children ages 4 to 12 is available for evening students at Sweeney Elementary School. Students are expected to attend classes twice a week.
For more information:
https://www.sfcc.edu/english-second-language/
https://www.sfcc.edu/programa-de-ingles-como-segundo-idioma/
SFCC English as a Second Language program encourages interested community members to follow the on Facebook for the latest news and updates: https://www.facebook.com/SFCCESL/.
Spring 2026 ESL classes begin January 26. Space is limited. For more information, call 505-428-1329 or email olga.rees@sfcc.edu.
Please note: SFCC will be closed for Winter Break Saturday, December 20, 2025 through Sunday, January 4, 2026.
Vice Chair Piér Quintana honored for service
At the December 2025 Santa Fe Community College Governing Board Meeting, President Becky Rowley and members of the board honored Vice Chair Piér Quintana as she concludes her six-year term of service. Quintana’s term officially ends on Dec. 31, 2025, marking a significant period of leadership and transformation for the college.
President Rowley presented Quintana with a commemorative plaque and expressed gratitude on behalf of faculty, staff and students, stating that the college “really, really appreciates your service,” and “you have helped us grow into a better institution and we are really going to miss you.”
Quintana reflected on her time with the board, saying that “this has been six years of my life that have been incredible, but not without their challenges.” She thanked the community for trusting her, her fellow board members and President Rowley for their collaboration, and her family for their support.
During her remarks, Quintana highlighted several key advancements achieved during her tenure, including the establishment of public work sessions to improve transparency and informed decision-making, navigating major pandemic-era challenges and strengthening program review processes, supporting the college’s transition into CHESS to expand access to higher education statewide, advancing Mosaica as a fast-responding workforce development engine, and championing paid parental leave. She noted that SFCC is the first community college in New Mexico to offer paid parental leave and only the second higher education institution in the state to do so, adding that it is “the better policy” and an achievement the college should be proud of.
She encouraged ongoing vigilance in governance as education evolves, noting that “as we find ourselves in a new political and technological era, the role of governance will look different.” She emphasized the importance of continuing to encourage students to think, speak and act for themselves and to “preserve the development of the human brain.”
Quintana closed her remarks by thanking the college community once again and saying, “I’m looking forward to hanging out with you all socially… Godspeed, my friends.”
SFCC celebrates Graduate Nurse Pinning Ceremony
Recognizing academic achievement and the transition to professional nursing
Santa Fe Community College honored its newest nursing graduates during the Graduate Nurse Pinning Ceremony at 11 a.m. on December 4 in the Jemez Rooms. Family, friends, faculty, and supporters gathered to celebrate the students’ hard work, perseverance, and commitment to entering the nursing profession.
The pinning ceremony—a cherished tradition in nursing programs across the country—symbolizes the graduates’ transition from students to professional nurses. SFCC Nursing Program faculty presented each graduate with a nursing pin, recognizing both their academic achievements and their readiness to serve the community with skill and compassion.
ADN Level IV Graduates
- Marissa Baker
- Yaneth Irigoyen
- Melanie Jaime
- Yoselin Lopez
- Lorena Rodriguez
BSN Graduates
- Hailey Council
- Darrell Gomez
- Laura Hatchett
- Michelle Salazar
- Monique Sedillo
Congratulations to all the graduates on reaching this milestone and best wishes as they begin their careers in the healthcare field. Thank you to MPR’s Ben Lauer for the photos.
Continuing Education Spring 26 registration now open
New catalog features acclaimed author Elaine Koyama and new weekend & evening classes
Continuing Education proudly announces the release of its Spring 2026 Noncredit Class Catalog, highlighting 87 new courses and an expanded range of programs designed to serve Santa Fe’s vibrant and curious community of lifelong learners.
Building on the college’s strong relationships with community and corporate partners, the new catalog celebrates collaborations with Revolution Bakery, The Railyard Performance Center, Dance Earth Creations, The Four Seasons Resort Santa Fe, Sky Railway, Agua Fria Nursery, CHOMP, The Reel Life and many others who continue to enrich SFCC’s community-based learning.
“SFCC’s Continuing Education thrives because of the shared vision we hold with our partners,” said Benjamin Lincoln, Director of Continuing Education. “Together, we’re cultivating spaces where creativity, skill, and curiosity meet opportunity.”
This spring, SFCC Continuing Education is honored to welcome Elaine Koyama, celebrated author and educator, whose course Making Memoirs Memorable invites students to explore the craft of storytelling through the lens of lived experience.
“Hosting Elaine Koyama in our Spring lineup speaks to our mission of amplifying accomplished voices who inspire others to write, create, and connect,” Lincoln said. “Her work reminds us that education is not only about skill—it’s about story.”
A new highlight of the Spring 2026 catalog is the Weekend and Evening Classes feature, offering flexible learning opportunities for working adults. With more than 40 courses now available outside traditional weekday hours, SFCC Continuing Education is expanding accessibility for those eager to learn beyond the 9-to-5 schedule.
“Our new Weekend and Evening schedule is a direct response to our community,” Lincoln added. “We’re making lifelong learning more inclusive, convenient, and exciting for everyone in Santa Fe.”
The Spring 2026 Continuing Education Catalog includes a dynamic range of personal enrichment and professional development classes—from art, culinary, and outdoor adventure to digital design, leadership, and language studies.
“Education doesn’t end with a degree,” Lincoln said. “It’s a lifelong journey—and our goal is to make that journey accessible, meaningful, and full of discovery.”
Registration for Spring 2026 Continuing Education classes opens at 9 a.m. on December 8, 2025 both online and in person. View the full catalog and register online at www.sfcc.edu/ce or call 505-428-1676.
Therapy dogs bring finals week stress relief to SFCC Library
The SFCC Library welcomed a team of furry, friendly therapy dogs on Wednesday, December 3, offering students a joyful break from finals week pressures. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., students gathered in the Library for a chance to pet, cuddle, and relax with the visiting pups—a tradition that brings smiles and reduces stress during one of the busiest times of the semester.
The visit was offered in collaboration with the Santa Fe Animal Shelter’s Pet Outreach Team, whose trained therapy dogs help create calm, supportive environments for students navigating end-of-term deadlines and exams. Wagging tails filled the space as students took a well-deserved pause to recharge.
Congratulations to everyone pushing through finals—your hard work is almost done!
Library announces winter interim hours
The SFCC Library will be open during the weeks of December 8 and December 15 with adjusted winter interim hours. Key schedule notes include:
- Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday during both weeks
- Storytime on Saturday, December 13
- Closing early at noon on Tuesday, December 16
Students and community members are invited to stop by for study space, resources, and winter activities.
Pushcart Prize Nominees: Santa Fe Literary Review
Santa Fe Literary Review announces Pushcart Prize selections.
The Pushcart Prize is an annual American literary award that recognizes the best works of poetry, short fiction, and essays published by small presses and literary magazines in the previous year. The Pushcart Press, which established the prize in 1976, publishes an anthology of the winners each year, making it one of the most honored literary projects in America.
To read or download the issue with the nominated works visit: https://www.sfcc.edu/literary-review-issue/2025/ Copies are also available at the SFCC Library.
Congratulations to all the selected nominees! It is a prestigious recognition.
Swing Shift Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 17 in FEC
Swing Shift Santa Fe Holiday Concert
7 p.m. Wednesday, December 17, 2025
William C. Witter Fitness Education Center (FEC) Atrium (upstairs).
Swing Shift Santa Fe is a Continuing Education group of amateur musicians dedicated to keeping Big Band Era music alive. Directed by instructor Brian Hill.
This concert is free and open to the public.
Registration for Spring 2026 semester now open
Registration for the Spring 2026 semester opened to all from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, November 4. Encourage students, friends and family members to register as early as possible to get the best selection of classes. Employees consider using your EEB Benefit.
For information on how to apply or register visit sfcc.edu/get-started/apply-and-register/ or call 505-428-1270.
Register for The Rewriting Room session on Dec. 19
Santa Fe Community College’s Wellness Center invites everyone to The Rewriting Room, a monthly hybrid experience that blends writing, reflection and well-being. The next session is from 4 to 5:15 p.m. Friday, December 19 in the SFCC Wellness Center, Room LL312 in person or online. RSVP encouraged at https://luma.com/sfccswc. To get a virtual link, participants must pre-register.
This monthly non-guided session offers an opportunity to write without writing prompts. Writers of all levels are welcome. Participants can write anything. Each session is a calm, welcoming space to reflect, write, and reconnect with yourself—no pressure, just presence. The free event is hosted by LaNysha Adams, Ph.D. Call 505-428-1349 for assistance registering.
The Rewriting Room is open to students, employees and the public.
Let Campus Weekly share your news!
Let us know about your accomplishments and other news that you’d like to share. Please remember that the deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday to get an item in the next week’s issue. Submit here.
SFCC Alumnus is a UNM Fall 2025 Inspiring Graduate
SFCC alumnus Ian Widrick-Martinez was recently recognized by the University of New Mexico as a Fall 2025 Inspiring Graduate as he completed his Master of Public Administration. Widrick-Martinez began his higher education journey at Santa Fe Community College, where he earned his associate degree and worked as a student employee with the SFCC Foundation—an experience that sparked his passion for higher education philanthropy and student advocacy. He went on to build a career in university advancement while completing his graduate studies virtually at UNM and now works in higher education in Colorado.
Read the full story on UNM News: https://news.unm.edu/news/fall-2025-inspiring-graduate-ian-widrick-martinez
Rock the Resume, Ace the Interview
Workshop for student parents Jan. 12; register by Jan. 7
Whether you’re preparing for your post-graduation job search or looking for a job while you’re in school, this workshop is here to help you prepare. We’ll talk about negotiating a salary, understanding benefits, and job seeking as a parent, as well as common mistakes we see from applicants. We’ll also help student parents create or update a resume, draft a cover letter that can be adapted for different applications, and practice interview skills. Register today for our next workshop on Monday, January 12th 10 am – 2 pm.
Katie Besser Student Awards accepting submissions through March 1, 2026
Showcase your creativity in writing or art for a chance to win prizes, be published in Accolades, and present your work at Meow Wolf. Categories include image/photography, fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, academic essay, en español (any genre), and instructor-nominated. Students enrolled in at least 3 credits may submit up to six pieces (5 pages max for writing; jpg/pdf for images). Especially consider submitting in art, academic essay, and en español. SFCC Employees are not eligible.
Email submissions from your SFCC account to genevieve.betts@sfcc.edu with your name, titles, categories, phone number, and A#. Deadline: March 1, 2026. Submissions must not contain identifying information.
Student Parent Success Program available to help parenting students anytime
Students who are juggling parenting and school are encouraged to reach out anytime to the Student Parent Success Program by calling 505-428-1036 or by sending an email to parentingstudents@sfcc.edu.
- Discuss your concerns as a parent
- Learn about resources and support as a parent
- Get help finding childcare
- Get help assessing developmental assessments for your child
- Find out about family activities and parenting classes
Students: Need childcare? Make sure you’re on the Kids Campus waitlist
When a spot comes available at the Kids Campus, students get priority placement. Kids Campus wants to support student parents and hopes that those needing childcare will get on the waitlist.
Children of degree-seeking SFCC students, SFCC employees, and full-time students at the Higher Education Center are prioritized for placement to support a two-generation philosophy of education at the college.
Visit the Kids Campus website for more information. Students receive a 10% discount on the cost of Kids Campus and N.M. Early Childhood Education and Care Development offers Child Care Assistance to income-eligible students.
Employees
- In Memoriam: Kathryn “Kitty” Clare Sherlock
- Spring 2026 Convocation January 8-16, 2026I
- English and Communications Winter 2025 Newsletter
- Defensive Driving Certification Jan. 16
- Invitation for Retirement Party for Evelyn Gonzales and Debbie Collins from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 18 at HEC
- Math adjunct Adrian Dolinay shares podcast on free Open Educational Resources
In Memoriam: Kathryn “Kitty” Clare Sherlock
Santa Fe Community College mourns the passing of Kathryn “Kitty” Clare Sherlock, who died on December 8, 2025. According to her obituary published on Legacy.com, Sherlock was the first librarian at SFCC after moving to Santa Fe in 1984. She later served in several roles with the New Mexico Public Education Department, including as a library consultant and in bilingual education, and was known for her lifelong commitment to education, service, and social change. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on December 17, 2025, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Santa Fe. Read the full obituary on Legacy.com: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/santafenewmexican/name/kathryn-sherlock-obituary?id=60278488
Spring 2026 Convocation January 8-16, 2026
Spring 2026 Convocation Week will take place from January 8-16, 2026.
President Rowley’s Welcome is scheduled for 9 a.m. on January 14 and will be held in-person in the Jemez Rooms and online. For employees attending in person, breakfast will be available beginning at 8:30 a.m. If you require any food accommodations, please contact Lucia Lucero.
Visit the Spring Convocation Schedule 2026 for the list of individual sessions and professional development opportunities. Please use the link for the most current schedule, which updates frequently.
Upon reviewing the schedule, you’ll notice that some events will be held on campus, others will take place in a hybrid format, and some will be conducted in person. Please review the schedule carefully and talk to your supervisor or deans if you have additional questions.
English and Communications Winter 2025 Newsletter
The latest SFCC English and Communications Department Winter 2025 Newsletter is now available — packed with updates on this semester’s projects, faculty achievements, and exciting new offerings.
Read the full newsletter online: https://www.sfcc.edu/english-and-communications-winter-2025-newsletter/.
Defensive Driving Certification
8 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, January 16, 2026
As per policy 5-10, everyone is required to take a Defensive Driving Certification Class prior to operating SFCC vehicles.
The next Defensive Driving Certification Class has been scheduled for Friday, January 16, 2026 from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m in West Wing room 212. (Please arrive promptly or it will cause the class to run long.)
To receive full credit for the class, you must arrive promptly at 8 a.m. and attend the full 4-5 hours.
Please register by calling or emailing:
jackie.Gutierrez@sfcc.edu X 1756
steve.silva@sfcc.edu X 1403
Please provide the following information when you call or email us to make a reservation for the class:
- Full name of individual attending.
- Individual’s New Mexico driver license number; and a copy of the individuals driver’s license if not already on file
- Department Name
Fleet vehicles are a great cost-effective way for employees to travel for work related reasons without incurring any personal vehicle expense and having to wait for a reimbursement.
If you have any questions about the program or the classes, please call Jackie or Steve at the numbers listed above.
Invitation for Retirement Party for Evelyn Gonzales and Debbie Collins from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 18 at HEC
Everyone is invited to the Retirement Party!
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
After years of dedication, hard work, and countless memories, Debbie Collins and Evelyn Gonzales are retiring! We would love for you to join us as we celebrate their incredible career and the lasting impact they’ve made on all of us.
Debbie Collins & Evelyn Gonzales’s Retirement Party
December 18,2025
at 2-4 p.m.
Higher Education Center Santa Fe Community College
1950 Siringo Rd.
Santa Fe, NM, 87508
Math adjunct Adrian Dolinay shares podcast on free Open Educational Resources
SFCC Math adjunct Adrian Dolinay recently recorded a podcast interview with an executive from OpenStax, a leading provider of free Open Educational Resources (OER). OpenStax offers no-cost, peer-reviewed textbooks and learning materials used by colleges and universities across the country.
In the interview, Dolinay discusses how OER can reduce financial barriers for students while giving instructors flexible, high-quality teaching tools. The conversation also highlights the importance of OER at SFCC and ongoing efforts to expand access to free learning resources.
You can listen to the interview on your preferred platform:
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/d0njrFln-O4?si=vTqhmmj8kCFUOI9_
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5JmCEA5YL6wHgJ0ciNaMP9
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/open-educational-resources-with-anthony-palmiotto/id1765996824?i=1000738139053
CHESS Connection Newsletter – December 3, 2025
The December CHESS Connection highlights the project’s transition from Workset C to Workset D—an implementation milestone that advances Workday Student toward major student-facing functions, including advising tools, graduation tracking, and financial aid integration. The issue also features the newest CHESS Superstar, guidance for all employees to verify personal information in Workday, reminders about upcoming CHESS Chat sessions returning in February, and a call for volunteers to join the Change Agent program, which helps support Workday Student adoption across member colleges.
Duplicating Center accepting photos for SFCC Pet of the Month
Send pictures of your pet to DuplicatingCenter@sfcc.edu. Each month a pet will be chosen, and notepads will be available with their picture. The proud owner will receive a 36×36 poster of their pet.
The Duplicating Center hopes to collect enough pictures to create a 2025 SFCC Pet Calendar.
Requirements:
- Must be a your own photo, no professional portraits
- Must be submitted by the last week of each month
Contact Michael at the Duplicating Center with questions.
WOW awards – nominate an outstanding coworker today!
The Office of Human Resources recognizes WOW recipients for their dedicated work and commitment to Santa Fe Community College.
Please be sure to nominate someone who you think is doing a great job here at SFCC.
The award is a $25.00 gift certificate from Amazon.
The submission form can be found at the SFCC Connect portal, Home » Online Forms/Surveys/Tests » Online Forms » Office of Human Resources or nominate by reaching out to Donna Castro at donna.castro@sfcc.edu.
New employees: We’d like to get to know you!
Staff Senate is encouraging new staff employees to come to an upcoming Staff Senate to introduce yourselves.
Campus Weekly would also love to introduce new staff and faculty members. Please send us your name, job title, when you started at SFCC, brief bio and photo (it can be a selfie!) to Submit News.
If you’re new to SFCC, we’d love to introduce you to the our community. We’re happy you’re working with us at SFCC!
Ongoing news and events
- Exhibition “Art, Extraction, and Imagination – If the Land could speak, what would it say?” continues through Dec. 19
- Rodríguez’s exhibition, ‘Revealing,’ continues through Jan. 1 at Center for Contemporary Art
- New Student Orientation sessions on Jan. 9 and Jan. 13
- ‘Adventures of Odysseus’ exhibition continues through Jan. 7 in Main Hallway
Exhibition “Art, Extraction, and Imagination – If the Land could speak, what would it say?” had a successful opening and continues through Dec. 19 by Room 567
SFCC Academic Director Shane Tolbert shared a report about the successful opening reception on November 3 for “Art, Extraction, and Imagination – If the Land could speak, what would it say?” (See this press release about the exhibition opening, which featured work by artist Shayla Bratchford and students who participated in the Pocacito student workshop offered at SFCC on November 1.)
Shane Talbot’s report: The School of Arts and Design at Santa Fe Community College hosted an opening reception for the Pocacito Student Workshop led by local artist and activist Shayla Blatchford. More than 40 guests attended, including Markus Hatzlemann, Deputy Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Houston.
Max Gruenig, Pocacito Co-Founder, opened the evening by introducing the workshop and its participants. Dean James Wysong welcomed guests to the college and spoke about the importance of elevating local voices and creating visibility around uranium mining—an issue deeply connected to New Mexico’s history and communities.
Blatchford shared insights into her ongoing Anti-Uranium Mapping Project, highlighting how the visual arts can serve as a bridge for understanding and healing. Through the workshop, students explored themes of Interdependence, Reciprocity, and Rematriation, fostering dialogue that connects audiences across regions and cultures.
As part of Pocacito initiatives, four SFCC students participated in the workshop and 40 students attended two presentations on uranium mining in East Germany and in the Navajo Nation.
The exhibition runs through December 19 and is funded by Germany’s Foreign Office. It can be viewed in the exhbition space next to Room 567.
Rocío Rodríguez’s exhibition, ‘Revealing,’ continues through Jan. 1 at Center for Contemporary Art
SFCC student, Rocío Rodríguez, solo exhibition at the Center for Contemporary Arts (CCA) opened on November 19 and continues through January 1, 2026.
“Revealing” | Rocío Rodríguez (solo exhibition)
Location: CCA | Cinema Gallery
Address: 1050 Old Pecos Trail, Santa Fe, NM
Revealing
“Revealing” showcases the latest work from the Santa Fe–based artist Rocío Rodríguez. She uses canvas and acrylic paint to create sculptures that adapt to the space. In her pieces, Rocío celebrates the architecture of the canvas by removing the stretcher. Both sides of the material are important. The nails add a restriction to the canvas, and brings both, a construction industry reference as well as a religious note to the work. The folds of the fabric reveal intimate spaces allowing the viewer to see the most expressive side of the canvas interacting with the contrast of the steel. By removing the restrains of the stretcher, in her work the canvas is free and reveals a side kept hidden until now.
Rocío Rodríguez was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, and she is currently based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She has a Master of Architecture degree from UNM and an Associate in Fine Arts degree with a focus on sculpture from the SFCC. She has five years of experience as a portrait photographer. Her multidisciplinary background is reflected in her work.
Instagram: @rociorodriguezstudio
Website: https://rociorodriguez.studio
The exhibition continues through January 1, 2026.
New Student Orientation sessions continue on Jan. 9 and Jan. 13
Do you know either a first-time student or a prospective student who is interested in earning a certificate or degree? Invite them to attend an upcoming New Student Orientation (NSO) session. To register for the session, they need to go to https://bit.ly/sfcc-nso-spring26 .
The upcoming NSO sessions are scheduled for:
January
- Friday, January 9, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Tuesday, January 13 ,12-4 p.m.
“New Student Orientation is a great way for students to get comfortable on campus before classes start,” said Michelle Aragon, Welcome and Support Coordinator. “They get to meet other students, find out about helpful resources, and start building their community here at SFCC. We want everyone to feel confident and supported as they begin this new chapter.”
New Student Orientation (NSO) is designed for all first-time, degree-seeking students, whether attending full or part time. SFCC also welcomes prospective students who want to learn more about SFCC.
Each New Student Orientation session includes a welcome from college leadership, an overview of student services, guidance on using the mySFCC portal, and tips for accessing campus resources. Financial aid and academic advising team members will be available to provide information and support during the sessions.
New or prospective SFCC students can reach out to Welcome and Support Coordinator Michelle Aragon at 505-428-1050 or michelle.aragon1@sfcc.edu for more information about New Student Orientation and getting started at SFCC.
Spring credit classes begin on Tuesday, January 20. For information on registration visit sfcc.edu/get-started/apply-and-register/ or call 505-428-1270.
‘Adventures of Odysseus’ exhibition continues through Jan. 7 in Main Hallway
Photos above are from the September 25 opening of “Adventures of Odysseus” featuring the art of Artemis Jegart (1927-2015). Click to enlarge.
Seashells, paint, and cement, 24 x 24 inches
Santa Fe Art on Campus is pleased to present Adventures of Odysseus by Artemis Jegart (1927-2015) in the Main Hallway exhibition space near the Main entrance (across from the Cashiers). The exhibition opened with a reception on September 25 and continues through January 7, 2026.
The exhibition focuses on twelve individual works created in 1968. The work was publicly exhibited at Watergate Galleries, Inc., Washington D.C. in 1972. Subsequently, Adventures of Odysseus remained privately on view in the home of the artist until her death in 2015.
Special thanks to the artist’s daughter, Rudi Artemis Jegart, as well as Academic Director of School of Art and Design Shane Tolbert and Director of Art on Campus Linda Cassel who helped make this exhibition possible.
Text below is by Katya Kirilloff.
I am five or six years old. I have come to dinner with my parents and sister to the house of a family friend. It’s a typical 1970’s style suburban home in Frederick, Maryland, seemingly no different from the neighbors along the street. We park and walk up the concrete walkway to the front door where we are greeted by our host Artemis Jegart. The foyer is dark and dramatic. My sister and I are guided down the stone floor hallway to a room full of vintage clothing. We are given bathing suits to change into that feel like costumes (hand-me-downs from Artemis’ two daughters). We shed everything from the outside world and are completely under Artemis’s spell. Now that we are appropriately dressed for dinner, we are led into the dining room.
I am floating on my back in a deep emerald pool in Artemis’s dining room. I lift my head up and I hear the soothing noises of my parents and our hosts talking, laughing, silverware and glasses clanking gently. Behind them is an entire wall covered in oyster shells, each with the mother of pearl metallic inside exposed. Sporadically throughout the wall a shell is turned to create a shelf. There are lit candles on all these little shelves. The wall dances with candlelight. It is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. I dip my ears back under water and turn my back to the dinner scene and there, high up on the opposite wall in a row, is the Adventures of Odysseus.
Twelve squares of concrete embedded with shells each depicting a character or piece of a story like an ancient comic book. This is my introduction to The Odyssey. There is Polyphemus, the towering cyclops, dominating the square with his massive chest and shoulders, while Aeolus with puckered lips and full cheek seems to blow forth a mighty wind. What strikes me most is Penelope, weeping tears for her long-lost husband, tears so endless that with a touch of humor, Artemis added a spigot.
As Circe welcomes Odysseus,
She opened her gleaming doors at once and stepped forth, inviting them all in, and in they went, all innocence. Only Eurylochus stayed behind—he sensed a trap…She ushered them in to sit on high backed chairs, then she mixed them a potion—cheese, barley and pale honey mulled in Pramnian wine—but into the brew she stirred her wicked drugs to wipe from their memories any thought of home. Once they’d drained the bowls she filled, suddenly she struck with her wand, drove them into her pigsties, all of them bristling into swine—with grunts, snouts—even their bodies, yes, and only the men’s minds stayed steadfast as before. So off, they went to their pens, sobbing, squealing as Circe flung them acorns, cornel nuts and mast, common fodder for hogs that root and roll in mud.
The Odyssey as translated by Robert Fagles.
Artemis Jegart brief bio
Artemis Jegart earned her BA (1949) and her MA (1953) from Florida State University. In 1956, Jegart was named an outstanding new talent by Art in America. She created a mural of the Capitol Center for Tallahassee’s original Municipal Airport which was dedicated April 23, 1961, a mural later re-created and exhibited at Tallahassee International Airport. In 1969, Jegart moved to Frederick, Maryland. In 1993, the artist relocated to Lamy, New Mexico. She died in 2015.
Check out the latest Inside SFCC
Check out Inside SFCC Vol 10. Read the story, “From making fries to saving lives: SFCC student finds his purpose in Human Services.” Tom Vimont, a Human Services student who returned to school after decades in the restaurant industry, shares thanks for advising by Advisor Jonathan Harrell, encouragement from faculty member Carlos Balladares, and support from the Tutoring Center, Financial Aid and other Student Resources.
In Noteworthy, read Celebrate student success and the power of giving. In the first section, read about dual-credit New Mexico School for the Deaf student Kane Wilding who was recently honored at a National Science Foundation Conference. Wilding was accompanied by SFCC mentors Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Academic Director R. Charlie Shultz, Director of the Innovation Center Ondine Frauenglass, and faculty member Stephen Gomez, Ph.D. Shultz shared how the NSF-ATE grant is supporting the SFCC team’s efforts to introduce young people to science and technical skills.
Also, learn how everyone can support students on Giving Tuesday, December 2, through the SFCC Foundation by giving on that day or now. In addition, see a round-up of upcoming events.
‘Burned in’ exhibition by student Jen Turner continues in Ripple Effect Gallery in Room 723 D through Jan. 30
The Ripple Effect Gallery (Room 723 D) presents artist and SFCC student Jen Turner’s “Burned In.” The opening was on November 14 and the show continues through January 30. The installation explores the theme of deep time and its existence within civilization and in the natural world. While working, Turner considers the phenomenology of evolution, interconnectedness, and ideas of control vs. chaos. She applies the grid as a motif, sometimes carved in clay or woven with horsehair onto geometric forms.
Lastly, she uses Iive plants to mark time.
The main installation features a hand-tied horse hair grid applied to the entire space and three large clay sculptures. The show will also include four other works: three small sculptures and one large wall work.
Jen Turner lives and works in Santa Fe. She has studied art at various institutions including the Glassell School of Art and Parsons/The New School. She received a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Texas in Austin. She has designed exhibits for The Museum of the City of New York, The Women’s Museum in Dallas and The National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. Her design work has been featured in The New York Times, wallpaper, and Dwell, among others.
A closing reception in January 2026 will be announced soon.
The gallery is open to the public when the college is open:
Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–10 p.m.;
Saturday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.; and
Sunday, 12 p.m.–5 p.m.
Sage Paisner’s Foto Forum Santa Fe gallery features “Sin Miedo” through Jan. 30
Photography Lead Faculty Sage Paisner’s gallery Foto Santa Fe is featuring a photo exhibition with Tasmin Sara and Tatja Lucía. Sage Paisner is executive director of Foto Forum Santa Fe. During the opening reception on November 7, Tatja Lucía gave a poetry reading and both artists gave an artist talk. The exhibition continues through January 30
SIN MIEDO ARTIST STATEMENT
SIN MIEDO
Sin Miedo is a multi-faceted story rooted in New Mexican culture. This project was born from the visions of Photographer Tasnim Sara and Poet Tatja Lucia. Through the marriage of our unique interpretations of living is birthed a rich telling of generational longing, connection, heartache and rapture. It is a collection of narratives gathered from within the fringes of our loyal haunt and refuge – of ancestors, neighbors, lovers and friends. Both from New Mexico, our cherished devotion to Home is reflected in every breath and in every work of art. This is our love letter to New Mexico, a gathering around the hearth. The plain where the soul lives on forever, with cadence and echo, in the absence of fear.
Each a storyteller in our own right, our goal with this project is to propagate a sentiment that strikes a chord with both the local collective heart and the outsider looking in. It brings to light a diverse spectrum of New Mexican spirit that is layered to become the foundation of this unique, eternal landscape.
It is the link between generations, an anchor that unites. A certain ache that home causes, a mystic space where pain and purpose go hand in hand to create a form of pride that is unique to this land. Our art speaks to this ever-persistent, underlying thread of spirit here; we tell stories of ghosts coming out of the hills as we watched from the back seat, and we dance the same rhythm from over-exposure to the sun.
Warm citric light.
Acidity, humility and passion.
Polarity in everyday life.
Wet wood, laid to dry in the New Mexico sun.
Tasnim Sara is a photographer and film-maker from Santa Fe, New Mexico. She is a storyteller who works to create dimensionality by unifying the real with the make-believe. Through her exploration of the present moment combined with myth, she deeply understands the delicacy of ghe human form and its organic and innate relationship to the land. She prioritizes community and sovereignty, and hopes to empower through her work; viewing the erotic as a life force that can be an antidote for death.
Tasnim earned a BFA in photography from Parsons School of Design. She has shown at the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Gallery in New York City. Her photobook, The Image as Nutrition, came out in 2022 and explores the dualities of human existence, the feast and famine of life. Her first solo show Where I am from, we need calloused feet exhibited in 2024 at The Hollander gallery in Santa Fe, NM.
Tatja Lucía is a Santa Fe native and indigenous poet/performer/musician. Her work focuses on the melding of art and myth, ancestry and nostalgia, food and prayer, glamour, frivolity and time. She comes from a long lineage of storytellers and honors this tradition.
Moving beyond English, Spanish, and the blood memory of the Plains people, she expresses a boundless identity, often using the alias Tatja Lucía. She holds numerous awards including the Lena Todd award for poetry and recently was nominated for the Pushcart Prize, Best of Small Presses. Her debut poetry collection, Silver Box from Finishing Line Press, has garnered praise and esteem across the board.
Some new creative ventures include a second poetry collection, a cookbook, a delve into a new chapter of cooking and curating, and “Homesteading.” A mommy to a toddler, and with another baby on the way, she spends her time alchemizing in the space between life and art and dreams. Always creating and collaborating. She lives on a small farm with her family in Coyote, NM.
Watch Fall 25 Wri-gen videos on YouTube
SFCC’s Library wrapped up the Fall 2025 Writing Generation Series with a participant reading on Nov. 19, featuring original work inspired by sessions led by authors Chip Livingston, Rowena Alegría, and James Thomas Stevens. Watch the full participant reading and explore the complete playlist on YouTube.
11/24/2025, Los Alamos Daily Post, SFCC Pickleball Club Host Yuletide Pickeball Palooza Dec. 14
11/22/2025, Los Alamos Daily Post, NM Colleges Waive Application Fees Through November
11/22/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, Smartboard, Nov. 24, 2025-Colleges waive application fees
11/21/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, Out There! EXHIBITIONISM-Long on Talent, Not in Tooth
11/19/2025, 1Santa Fe Reporter, SFR Double Picks: Nov. 19, 2025- So Much More Than Bleeps and Bloops Santa Fe Community College music class students present their final works
11/17/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, Nov. 17, 2025-SFCC announces spring orientation dates
11/15/2025, Los Alamos Daily Post, SFCC Announces New Student Orientation Dates: Dec. 10, Jan. 9, Jan. 13
11/11/2025, Los Alamos Daily Post, SFCC And IAIA Announce Holiday Markets Dec. 13
11/10/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, Smartboard, Nov. 10, 2025- SFCC Sculpture Union hosts Annual $99.99 Holiday Sale; SFCC and Higher Education Center to close for fall break
10/29/2025, Santa Fe Reporter, “3 Questions with photographer/activist Shayla Blatchford”
10/27/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, “Smartboard, Oct. 27, 2025-SFCC hosts reception for ‘Cirque du Celestia’ exhibit”
10/27/2025, Los Alamos Daily Post, “SFCC’s Clay Club Ceramics Sale To Be Held Nov. 19 & 20”
10/22/2025, Albuquerque Journal, “Santa Fe Community College to train aspiring moviemakers with backlot film set”
10/21/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, “New Mexico film industry officials tout new set, training project at Santa Fe Community College”
10/21/2025, KRQE, “First-of-its-kind city backlot coming to Santa Fe to expand film industry and training”
10/20/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, “Smartboard, Oct. 20, 2025-SFCC offers free digital design, 3D printing course; SFCC student glass art sale will feature handmade items; SFCC exhibition explores art and environment”
10/19/2025, Los Alamos Daily Post, “SFCC To Host Glass Club Sale Nov. 12-13”
10/18/2025, Los Alamos Daily Post, “ABC Suicide Prevention Partner Class Oct. 20”
10/15/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, “Out There! FOR WRITERS & READERS-Reveling in the Review”
10/05/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, “Early voting opens Tuesday at Santa Fe County Clerk’s Office”
09/29/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, “Smartboard Sept. 29, 2025-SFCC to close for Indigenous Peoples Day”
09/22/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, “Smartboard Sept. 22, 2025-SFCC launches ‘College Ready’ workshops for parents”
09/17/2025, KUNM, KUNM News Update, Santa Fe mayoral candidate forum set for Wednesday
09/15/2025, Los Alamos Daily Post, SFCC Offers Free Fiber Optic Technician Bootcamp
09/15/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, ‘New Mexican,’ other Santa Fe media outlets to hold mayoral candidate forum Wednesday
09/14/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, Santa Fe area food service inspections, Aug. 12-15
Santa Fe New Mexican, 09/11/2025, “Reactions mixed on New Mexico’s universal child care proposal”
09/08/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, “Smartboard Sept. 8, 2025-SFCC to hold fair in support of mental health, SFCC to hold fall career fair featuring employers”
09/05/2025, Santa Fe New Mexican, “Out There! EXHIBITIONISM-Teacher Talent”
