Campus Weekly
SFCC hosted Santa Fe legislative delegation on January 14

SFCC hosted members of the Santa Fe legislative delegation on January 14 to discuss the college’s goals, achievements and needs ahead of the upcoming legislative session. President Becky Rowley highlighted SFCC’s commitment to student success, workforce development and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of legislative support to advance these efforts.
The meeting provided a valuable forum for collaboration, allowing legislators to learn about SFCC’s programs and initiatives while offering insights on how state-level priorities align with the college’s mission. The exchange fostered dialogue on how to better serve students and the community through legislative action.
News and Announcements
- Immigration Support Services in Santa Fe – Community Resource Guide/Servicios de Apoyo a la Inmigración en Santa Fe – Guía de Recursos Comunitarios
- 2025 SOFE calendar of FEC events
- Story about Dual Credit featured in Tumbleweeds Magazine
- Reception for Rocío Rodríguez’s exhibition, “Conversations with the Canvas,” from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. January 30 in Dean’s Gallery
- CE hosts NM film premiere of “Blue: The Life and Art of George Rodrigue” at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 2 at Four Seasons Rancho Encantado
- CE offers Essential End of Life Document Preparation Workshop beginning Feb. 1
- AccessAbility for All session from noon to 2 p.m. January 29 in Room 223 or online
- Save the date! Blood Drive from noon to 3 p.m. February 4
- Save the Date: Transfer Fair from noon to 3:30 p.m. on February 26 in Main Hallway
- SF Reporter’s “Things We Love about Santa Fe Right Now” included Campus Cupboard
- SFCC accepting applications for Environmental Technical Training through March 31
- Check out the latest issue of Inside SFCC
- PEDAC Cultural Calendars January and February 2025
- Free Workforce Trainings for New Mexico residents
Immigration Support Services in Santa Fe – Community Resource Guide/Servicios de Apoyo a la Inmigración en Santa Fe – Guía de Recursos Comunitarios
This compiled guide of off-campus community resources could be useful for undocumented students and other undocumented individuals.
Primary Immigration Legal Services
Santa Fe Dreamers Project
– Free comprehensive immigration legal services
– Specializes in DACA, asylum, family petitions, humanitarian visas
– Deportation defense and emergency response
– Multiple locations: Downtown and Southside Santa Fe
– Phone: 505-490-2789
– Monthly walk-in legal clinics
– Services in English and Spanish
Somos Un Pueblo Unido
– Immigrant rights advocacy and organizing
– Worker rights and racial justice programs
– Legal support and community education
– Phone: 505-424-7832
– Bilingual services available
– Community leadership development
Additional Support Services
Legal Assistance
Catholic Charities Santa Fe Office
– Low-cost immigration legal services
– Location: 1234 San Felipe Ave, Santa Fe
– Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm
– Phone: 505-424-9789
– By appointment only
Health and Wellness
La Familia
– Medical, dental and behavioral health services
– Sliding scale fees
– Services regardless of immigration status
Family Support
Gerard’s House
– Support groups for immigrant families
– Specialized programs for youth
– Family separation support services
Emergency Services
Haven House
– Domestic violence shelter and support
– 24/7 Emergency Hotline: 1-800-526-7157
Important Notes about the various community services :
– Services are available regardless of immigration status
– Most organizations require appointments
– Bilingual services (English/Spanish) available
– Confidential assistance guaranteed
– Financial assistance or sliding scale fees may be available
For immediate assistance, contact any organization directly. All inquiries are confidential and secure.
Esta guía compilada de recursos comunitarios fuera del campus puede ser útil para estudiantes indocumentados y otras personas indocumentada.
Servicios Legales Primarios de Inmigración
Santa Fe Dreamers Project
– Servicios legales completos de inmigración gratuitos
– Se especializa en DACA, asilo, peticiones familiares, visas humanitarias
– Defensa contra deportaciones y respuesta a emergencias
– Varias ubicaciones: Centro y Sur de Santa Fe
– Teléfono: 505-490-2789
– Clínicas legales mensuales sin cita previa
– Servicios en inglés y español
Somos Un Pueblo Unido
– Defensa y organización de derechos de inmigrantes
– Programas de derechos de los trabajadores y justicia racial
– Apoyo legal y educación comunitaria
– Teléfono: 505-424-7832
– Servicios bilingües disponibles
– Desarrollo de liderazgo comunitario
Servicios de Apoyo Adicionales
Asistencia Legal
Oficina de Caridades Católicas Santa Fe
– Servicios legales de inmigración a bajo costo
– Ubicación: 1234 San Felipe Ave, Santa Fe
– Horario: Lunes-Viernes de 8am a 12pm y de 1pm a 5pm
– Teléfono: 505-424-9789
– Sólo con cita previa
Salud y Bienestar
La Familia
– Servicios médicos, dentales y de salud conductual
– Tarifas basadas en una escala variable
– Servicios disponibles independientemente del estatus migratorio
Apoyo Familiar
Gerard’s House
– Grupos de apoyo para familias inmigrantes
– Programas especializados para jóvenes
– Servicios de apoyo por separación familiar
Servicios de Emergencia
Haven House
– Refugio y apoyo por violencia doméstica
– Línea de emergencia 24/7: 1-800-526-7157
Notas Importantes sobre los diversos servicios comunitarios:
– Los servicios están disponibles independientemente del estatus migratorio
– La mayoría de las organizaciones requieren cita previa
– Servicios bilingües (inglés/español) disponibles
– Asistencia confidencial garantizada
– Puede estar disponible asistencia financiera o tarifas escalonadas
Para asistencia inmediata, comuníquese directamente con cualquiera de las organizaciones. Todas las consultas son confidenciales y seguras.
2025 SOFE calendar of FEC events

The School of Fitness Education (SOFE) has a preliminary 2025 calendar of special events at the William C. Witter Fitness Education Center (FEC). Refer to the image above for the dates. The dates on the calendar are firm, but not all the registration details or hours are set at this time. Save the Date if these are activities that you enjoy participating in! Maybe seeing these upcoming dates will inspire you to keep up your 2025 Fitness New Year’s resolutions.
Story about Dual Credit featured in Tumbleweeds Magazine

Director of Student Engagement and Outreach Marcos Maez wrote a story about SFCC’s Dual Credit program in the Tumbleweeds Magazine story, “Dual Credit at Santa Fe Community College: A program that really makes a difference.”
Here are some excerpts from the excellent story:
“In today’s fast-evolving academic landscape, students are increasingly looking for ways to jumpstart their college experience while still in high school. Dual credit programs, such as the one offered by Santa Fe Community College (SFCC), provide an invaluable opportunity for motivated high school students to earn college credits, build a stronger academic foundation, and ease the transition to post-secondary education. This program empowers students by enabling them to complete college-level coursework, often at little to no cost, while simultaneously satisfying high school graduation requirements. SFCC’s dual credit program provides a range of benefits, including financial savings and improved career preparation, which help students achieve their educational goals more efficiently….”
Near the end of the story, Marcos shared his personal observation:
“I want to pause here for a moment and share that as a professional who has been working with dual credit students at SFCC for more than a decade, I have seen how this program can affect the very trajectory of a student’s life. A few years ago, when visiting a Santa Fe High School classroom to introduce the program to students, I had the opportunity to meet a student who was, by his own admission, a mediocre student and fairly disengaged from school. Together SFCC Dual Credit Specialist Niki McKay and I convinced him to take a dual credit course. He then continued working one-on-one with Niki, who helped him identify the right course and encouraged him through the registration process to the first day of class. He took and completed a Culinary Arts course. It would become the first on the road to his associate degree, which he completed in 2023. The dual credit experience not only introduced him more fully to the career he would pursue, but it also created relevance for all his other courses in high school as he began to see and understand their connection to his future. He was a high performer in his dual credit classes and improved in all his other courses. One of the most rewarding days for me in the last few years was when his mother found Niki and me to say “thank you” as she and her son, in cap and gown, arrived for Commencement. It was wonderful to celebrate his accomplishment.
I also know that his story is not unique. We have seen this happen for many of our dual credit students who discover themselves and their future because of this opportunity….” Read the full story at “Dual Credit at Santa Fe Community College: A program that really makes a difference.”
Reception for Rocío Rodríguez’s exhibition, “Conversations with the Canvas,” from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, January 30, in Dean’s Gallery

Santa Fe Community College’s Art on Campus will host a reception for Fine Arts Alumna Rocío Rodríguez’s pop-up up exhibition, “Conversations with the Canvas” from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, January 30 in the Dean’s Gallery in the entry lobby of SFCC’s Fine Art Center on campus, 6401 Richards Avenue. The exhibition runs through February 14. The reception is free and open to the public. Rodríguez, who continues to expand her artistic journey, is taking additional fine arts classes at SFCC.
Artist’s statement:
“My name is Rocío Rodríguez, in my work, the canvas wants to be a sculpture. I use canvas and acrylic paint, but the interaction with the space is critical for each piece. I am a multidisciplinary artist with a background in architecture and a portrait-photography practice. I finished my associate degree last fall at SFCC in Fine Arts (sculpture).
In making my work, I think about balance and constant transformation. As a migrant, I am familiar with moving and adapting to new contexts, and my work has an ephemeral character that reflects this. My most recent series releases the canvas from its restraints, embracing the organic nature of the material and allowing it to become an independent creature. With this, the canvas is free, and it wants to be a sculpture.”
SFCC’s Director of Art on Campus Linda Cassel said, “I’m excited to feature Rocío Rodríguez’s creative artwork in the first pop-up show of the semester. These short-term exhibitions give the college the opportunity to showcase a variety of fine art by SFCC students, faculty, staff and alumni.”
The short-term pop-up shows are showcased in the Dean’s Gallery in the front lobby of the Fine Arts Center. Art on Campus also present major exhibitions in the Visual Arts Gallery, which is short walk from the Dean’s Gallery.
Pop-up shows in the Dean’s Gallery are available for viewing during regular campus open hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
For more information, contact Director of Art on Campus Linda Cassel via email at linda.cassel@sfcc.edu or by phone at 505-428-1501.
CE hosts NM film premiere of “Blue: The Life and Art of George Rodrigue” at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 2 at Four Seasons Rancho Encantado
Advance registration is required by enrolling in the CE class

SFCC’s Continuing Education’s (CE) department in conjunction with Four Seasons Rancho Encantado will present the New Mexico premiere of “Blue: The Life and Art of George Rodrigue,” at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 2. Registration for the event is required by enrolling in the CE class. (See the class on Page 8 of the catalog.) Registration assistance is available by emailing CE@sfcc.edu or calling 505-428-1676.
The CE department has offered a variety of popular classes taught by Wendy Rodrigue Magnus, the widow of acclaimed artist George Rodrigue (1944-2013). In September, the SFCC Visual Arts Gallery featured the artist’s work in “Dream Big: The Art of George Rodrigue,” organized by Wendy’s Life & Legacy Foundation, a non-profit organization that encourages the arts in education. The installation included 50 original paintings from Wendy’s private collection, including Rodrigue’s Cajun Series landscapes and portraiture, his paintings inspired by New Mexico, and his well-known Blue Dog canvases. SFCC partnered with Wendy to bring area school children to the campus for art and storytelling experiences within the exhibition. See more here.
The New Mexico film premiere of “Blue: The Life and Art of George Rodrigue,” will be presented at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 2 in the grand ballroom of Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado. The documentary is an intimate exploration of the iconic artist behind the Blue Dog series. After viewing the documentary, participants will be part of a lively Q & A session with producer Jim Dotson, director Sean O’Malley and George Rodrigue’s widow, Wendy Rodrigue Magnus. There is also an option to attend a four-course dinner following the film showing. Reservations for the dinner need to be made by calling Four Seasons Resort at 505-946-5700. See a trailer for the film at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBAI_Etenok&t=20s.
Continuing Education Director Benjamin Lincoln said, “The New Mexico film premiere is particularly timely. George Rodrigue’s art was inspired by the dynamic and rich culture of New Orleans, a city which is once again demonstrating courage and resilience.”
Background about the film:
Story Synopsis: The feature documentary “Blue: The Life and Art of George Rodrigue” paints a portrait of the world-renowned Cajun artist. George Rodrigue told the story of his exiled ancestors through brushstrokes, overcoming insurmountable adversity on a journey to become an international pop art sensation with his instantly recognizable, golden-eyed Blue Dog. “Blue” features interviews with George Rodrigue’s family, friends, curators, critics, collectors, and notable New Orleans’ figures, including Chef Emeril Lagasse, Drew Brees, James Carville, and former Mayor Marc Morial. Heavily influenced by the art of Andy Warhol, Rodrigue attended the ArtCenter College of Design in Los Angeles in the 1960s before returning home to paint Louisiana. After two decades of celebrating Cajun culture on canvas, Rodrigue achieved commercial success by turning a Cajun folklore character, known as the “loup-garou,” into the iconic Blue Dog. From teaching himself to paint while bedridden with polio, to being overlooked by art critics and museums for decades, to his valiant battles with Hurricane Katrina and cancer, George Rodrigue stayed true to his vision and in the process made us all happy to feel Blue.
Awards and Honors: “Blue: The Life & Art of George Rodrigue” has won the following awards: New Orleans Film Festival, Winner – Audience Award; Amsterdam New Cinema Fest, Winner – Best Documentary; IndieX Film Fest. Winner – Best Producer and Best Director; Asian Talent Film Fest, Winner Outstanding Achievement – Documentary; Bangkok Movie Awards, Winner – Best producer, Director, Documentary; Cannes World Film Festival, Winner – Best Biographical Feature Film; Oniros Film Awards New York, Finalist – Best Documentary; Swedish International Film Fest – Nominee.
Director’s Bio: Upon moving to Los Angeles, native New Orleanian, Sean O’Malley built his 25-year career in the unscripted television world, bringing his creative vision to more than 175 episodes of Discovery’s Food Paradise, and numerous other series under the Discovery umbrella of networks. Most recently, O’Malley partnered with celebrity chef Jesus Diaz, from Univision’s Despierta América, to produce Que Delicia: El Sabor De América. The groundbreaking series is an in-depth exploration of Latin American cuisine in the U.S., and the stories of the people behind the plates for Univision’s streamer, ViX. Blue marks his second feature documentary collaboration with WLAE, the first being the award-winning Fats Domino: Walkin’ Back to New Orleans in 2008.
Director’s Statement: “I was drawn to this project because I grew up in New Orleans with deep Cajun roots,” said Director Sean O’Malley. “George persevered through multiple challenges in his lifetime on his odyssey from the small town of New Iberia, Louisiana to recognition as one of the most important artists of our time. I’m proud to have the opportunity to tell his moving and uplifting story.”
Read more in the full press release.

Continuing Ed offers Essential End of Life Document Preparation Workshop beginning Feb. 1
#5327 Continuing Education 5-week workshop
In person, 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays Feb. 1- Mar. 1
Prepare 3 Primary Documents (Last Will & Testament, Power of Attorney, Advanced Health Care Directives) in a relaxed environment. Hear from local professionals from related fields (Probate Judge, Hospice, and much more).
visit: www.lifeizshort.com for more details and to order course materials
AccessAbility for All session from noon to 2 p.m. January 29 in Room 223 or online

An Accessibility for All event is from noon to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, January 29 in Room 223 (or online details will be sent after registering indicating your preference of attending in person or online). This presentation is sponsored by the Office of Online Teaching and Learning and the Student Wellness Center.
The presentation will include information about:
- Student Resources
- Accessibility Features in Canvas
- Adaptive Technologies
- Accessibility Services
- Read Speaker
- Mental Health Counselor
- Panopto Video
The presenters look forward to connecting with you and exploring how accessibility tools can transform the student experience!
RSVP today to secure your spot. To RSVP to the event, please use the QR code above or visit https://lu.ma/6vahf0f7.
Save the date! Blood Drive from noon to 3 p.m. February 4

The Student Nurses Association Club will be hosting a Vitalant Blood Drive on February 4, 2025 in the SFCC Board Room. Visit https://vit.la/ykr2hg to schedule an appointment.
Save the Date: Transfer Fair from noon to 3:30 p.m. on February 26 in Main Hallway

SF Reporter’s “Things We Love about Santa Fe Right Now” included Campus Cupboard

Check out the Santa Fe Reporter’s cover story from 12/18/2024, “25 Things We Love About Santa Fe Right Now-SFCC’s food pantry served more than 10,000 individuals this year.”
The Santa Fe Reporter cover story gave a shout-out to SFCC’s Campus Cupboard and SFCC’s Controlled Environment Agriculture’s contributions with the following:
SFCC’s food pantry served more than 10,000 individuals this year.
SFCC Student Resource Coordinator Joanna Johnston says the Campus Cupboard, a three-room suite that houses free groceries for staff, students and their families, has grown since 2021.
If there’s one thing any college student is familiar with, it’s hunger on a tight budget. At the Santa Fe Community College, 54% of students reported being food insecure in the 2023-24 Student Basic Needs Report published this year, and the college has taken great strides forward in providing food and other basic needs to its students through growing their free food pantry, the Campus Cupboard.
According to SFCC Student Resource Coordinator Joanna Johnston, the Campus Cupboard has even partnered with the school’s Controlled Environment Agriculture program to grow and distribute more than 300 pounds of fresh produce this year, using aquaponics and hydroponics to grow food in the campus greenhouse. “Their generosity makes this possible, and they put in so much effort harvesting, packaging and delivering fresh produce each week,” Johnston tells SFR. “They deserve credit.” Anyone interested in donating to the Campus Cupboard can send their donation through the Santa Fe Community College Foundation. (MC)
Want to help support the Campus Cupboard? Visit https://foundation.sfcc.edu/give-now/
SFCC accepting applications for Environmental Technical Training through March 31
Training will run April 14 through May 16 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at the Santa Fe Higher Education Center, 1950 Siringo Road.

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) is accepting applications for its free Environmental Technician training program, which provides the training, skills and certifications necessary to enter a wide range of job opportunities in the environmental profession. Applications will be accepted through March 31, 2025. The free training runs April 14 through May 16 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at the Santa Fe Higher Education Center, 1950 Siringo Road. (Please note: The training dates have changed as indicated here.) This intensive 5-week training program classes provide certifications and skills for entry level job positions:
- General Hazardous Waste Site Worker (HAZWOPER) 40 hours
- CPR and First Aid (6 hours)
- Forklift Operator (6 hours)
- OSHA Construction Standards (10 hours)
- Confined Space Entry and Non-Entry Rescue (8 hours)
- Solid Waste Management (8 hours)
- Hazardous Waste Management (RCRA) (24 hours)
- Phase I and Phase II Environmental Assessments (16 hours)
- Environmental Sampling (24 hours)
- DOT HazMat (16 hours)
- Bloodborne Pathogens (4 hours)
- Radiation Safety (8 hours)
Applicants must be able to attend the entire five-week program, have a high school diploma or GED, be 18 years or older, be able to lift 30 pounds and must be unemployed, underemployed or low-income. Veterans are encouraged to apply. The training also will help students to become career-ready with assistance preparing résumés and practicing interviewing techniques.
The free training is possible through a $500,000 grant SFCC received from the Environmental Protection Agency. Sponsors and partners include: Los Alamos National Laboratory, Eight Northern Indian Pueblo Council, U.S. EPA and AGC New Mexico.
For more information and to fill out an application, visit https://www.sfcc.edu/programs/environmental-job-training. Still have questions? Either send an email to Candice.Mirabal@sfcc.edu or call 505-428-1324.
Check out the latest issue of Inside SFCC


The latest issue of Inside SFCC extends wishes for a wonderful Winter Break, expresses gratitude for recent bond support and includes interviews with Nursing Education Director Lucas Gonzales, Daniela Gurule who is spreading the word on the value of college through the Title V Exito en SFCC grant intiative and an interview with SFCC’s 93-year-old pickleball player known as J.R. and more!

Read the full Inside SFCC here. Want to be on the email list for upcoming issues? Fill out the subscription form.
PEDAC Cultural Calendars January and February 2025

The President’s Equity and Diversity Advisory Committe (PEDAC) is sharing monthly cultural calendars.
PEDAC invites you to consider applying for PEDAC funds of up to $400 for a diversity-related event at SFCC. Please visit the PEDAC page for more details and to download the funding application: https://www.sfcc.edu/pedac/.
The President’s Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee (PEDAC) at SFCC has released its January 2025 Cultural Calendar, featuring monthly observances like National Mentoring Month and Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, along with key dates such as World Braille Day (Jan. 4), Epiphany (Jan. 6), and Makar Sankranti (Jan. 14).
The PEDAC February 2025 Cultural Calendar highlights several observances, including Black History Month, National Library Lover’s Month, and Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Notable dates include National Freedom Day on February 1, World Hijab Day on February 1, Tu B’Shvat on February 6, and Valentine’s Day on February 14.
Free Workforce Training classes for New Mexico residents begin in January
The Santa Fe Community College Workforce Development Dept. is offering free workforce training classes to New Mexico residents. These classes are available to SFCC students as well. Employees have to use EEB credits to register.
See the above flyer that includes class descriptions with dates, times and registration information.
Please note (due to grant restrictions), SFCC employees need to enroll using EEB benefits. Employees should contact the Continuing Education Enrollment Specialist Paloma Trujillo Anaya at paloma.anaya@sfcc.edu or 505-428-1255. She can help employees navigate the EEB enrollment and answer any questions they may have.

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.
APRENDE Early Childhood Teacher Apprenticeship Program
Pre-Apprenticeship for new educators – Earn a NM Child Development Certificate and become qualified as an Assistant Teacher.
Apprenticeship for educators working or seeking work in a classroom – Earn an associate degree in early childhood education and become qualified as a lead teacher.
For more information and to apply: www.sfcc.edu/aprende
APRENDE Programa de aprendices para los educadores de la educación temprana
Pre-Aprendiz para educadores nuevos – Obtén un Certificado de Desarrollo Infantil y capacitación como Asistente de Maestro
Aprendiz para educadores quienes ya trabajan (o buscan empleo) en un centro/escuela – Se obtiene un título de asociado en la educación temprana y capacitación como un Maestro Principal
Para más información y para aplicar: www.sfcc.edu/aprende

Congratulations to students on the Fall 2024 Dean’s List
SFCC applauds all of the hard work that students put into their classes. We particularly congratulate the students on the Dean’s List for Fall 2024!
Check out the full list here.


Multi-factor Authentication will begin soon for students
In the coming weeks, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) will be rolling out the requirement for multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA will be required when logging into SFCC-provided applications such as MySFCC, Canvas, and Microsoft products. MFA is best practice, and the added security measure requires you to verify your identity with a second factor, like a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password.
More information will be shared soon. If you are an employee, you have already completed this process. Please contact the Office of Information Technology service desk at (505) 428-1222 if you have any questions.
For further information, please visit: https://w3.sfcc.edu/oit/mfa/
Please note: No action is required at this time.
Apply now for Spring Student Worker jobs

There are a lot of jobs opening right now for spring student workers. Earn $15 an hour and work on campus 20 hours per week. Contact Katie Cadena Priebe at katie.cadenapriebe@sfcc.edu or 505-428-1068 for more information or to apply!
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
Welcome Clarissa Trujillo as FEC Facility Director
Clarissa Trujillo is now serving the college as the Williiam C. Witter Fitness Education Center (FEC) Facility Director.
FYI: Herman Garcia left that full-time role at the end of last semester. You will still be seeing Herman Garcia at special FEC events and as an adjunct instructor.
Campus Weekly asked Clarissa Tujillo to share a little bit about herself and her love of fitness. (See her quote below.)

I’m excited to be starting this new role as the Facilities Director at the William C. Witter Fitness Education Center.
– Clarissa Trujillo
I have been with Santa Fe Community College since October 2023, working as a Facility Supervisor at the Santa Fe Fitness Center. I have a background in overseeing fitness facilities and ensuring a safe, clean environment for patrons.
My fitness interests include a deep passion for swimming and group fitness, both of which I believe offer tremendous benefits for physical health and mental well-being. I am particularly excited about fostering an environment where individuals can not only engage in these activities but also feel empowered to take control of their health. I am committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community that values a healthy mind and body. This means supporting fitness opportunities that welcome people of all backgrounds and fitness levels, and encouraging wellness as a lifelong journey. By creating such an environment, I hope to inspire and motivate others to reach their full potential in both mind and body.
SFCC’s Workforce Training seeks part-time Microsoft Office Instructor

The Workforce Training Division at SFCC is seeking a dynamic part-time Microsoft Office Instructor to provide high-quality training on Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. The instructor will deliver training sessions to groups throughout Santa Fe and surrounding areas, ensuring that participants acquire the necessary skills to use these tools efficiently and effectively.
Requirements:
- Have your own reliable transportation and able to travel to customer locations in Santa Fe, Los Alamos, and Albuquerque to deliver the trainings.
- Availability to work Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. approximately 18-20 hours per month.
- Willingness to become a certified Microsoft Office Instructor. We will pay for your study time and to take the online exams.
- Prior experience teaching or instructing groups of varying skill levels is highly preferred.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain technical concepts in a simple, easy-to-understand manner.
- Ability to adapt teaching methods to the needs of different learners.
- Patience, adaptability, and a passion for teaching.
- Hourly teaching rate is $125/hour.
For more information please contact:
Christi Balzarini, Director of Program Sales | SFCC Continuing Education & Workforce Development
Christi.balzarini@sfcc.edu
505-428-1247
Employee Fitness CRN now available for Spring 25
The Office of Human Resources is happy to make available the Employee Fitness Program CRN code for the Spring 2025 semester. SFCC Employee Health Benefit (Policy 4-36) allows employees to gain access to the William C. Witter Fitness Education Center by waiving access fees. The policy also offers employees use of 90 minutes paid release time upon supervisor approval for fitness purposes. You may register for the fitness program online through MYSFCC or through an enrollment specialist.
Policy 4-36: Compensation and benefits – Policy
The CRN can be found on SFCC Connect and in the most recent HR Newsletter.
January Pet of the Month
January’s Pet of the month belongs to Allison Gaytan. Meet Daisy!
Your pet can be next! Learn more.


English and Communications Winter 2024 Newsletter
Kate McCahill has shared the Winter 2024 English and Communications Newsletter: https://www.sfcc.edu/english-and-communications-winter-2024-newsletter/
Policy Updates
On Dec. 4, the SFCC Governing Board approved the following policies. Please become familiar with these policies:
- SFCC Policy 1-2 Governing Board Authority, Roles, and Responsibilities; President Rowley
- SFCC Policy 2-9 Children on Campus (New), Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs Margaret Peters, Associate Vice President of Student Affairs Thomasinia Ortiz-Gallegos, Ed.D., Student Parent Success Manager Rachel Kutcher
- SFCC Policy 3-3 Associate in Arts and Associate in Science Degree Requirements and SFCC Policy 3-4 Associate in Applied Arts and Associate in Applied Science Degree Requirements, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs Margaret Peters, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs Ivan Lopez-Hurtado, Ph.D.
Should you have any questions about these policies, please reach out to the contacts above. All employees are responsible for adhering to College Policies and Procedures, which are online at SFCC Policies. For more information about the Policy Review Process, contact Policy Officer Laura J. Mulry, ext. 1776.

Spring 2025 Online Teaching & Learning training opportunities
A number of training opportunities are available this spring. Explore the Quality Matters (QM) Workshop Schedule: https://www.qualitymatters.org/PD-schedule.
For more information or to register contact: julia.dunkin@sfcc.edu or 505-428-1168. Click here to schedule an appointment with Julia. You can also contact the Office of Online Teaching and Learning at otl@sfcc.edu or 505-428-1166, or visit their page: www.sfcc.edu/otl.

CHESS Connection Newsletter – December 17, 2024

The second CHESS December 2024 newsletter celebrates a big Workday Student project milestone, highlights the CHESSTER Award winners and CHESS Superstars, and reminds employees to verify their information and sign up for electronic W2s in Workday. It also includes updates on the Technology Support Hub and invites feedback and participation in future events. Also, a fun Wintery Word Search.
Read the full issue here.
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!
Exhibition of Julie Speed’s large scale gouache and collage paintings continues through February 19

Exhibition features work of artist Julie Speed from Marfa, Texas, and continues through February 19.

Visual Arts Gallery will host an opening reception from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, January 23 for “Cain and Abel,” an exhibition featuring nine gouache and collage paintings by artist Julie Speed. The large-scale paintings are 60 by 40 inches. Speed paints surreal scenes in a realistic style with oil and collage. After the opening, the exhibition will continue in the Visual Arts Gallery, 6401 Richards Avenue, through Wednesday, February 19.
Director of Art on Campus Linda Cassel said, “Julie Speed’s art is extraordinary. SFCC is delighted to present this exhibition. I encourage everyone to stop by to see it in person to fully appreciate the fine detail and intricacy of the artwork.” Cassel first saw the artist’s work when she toured Speed’s studio in Marfa, Texas, as part of a fall semester art class taught by John Boyce.
Click the play button arrow on box below to see Julie Speed working in her studio (Note it takes a few seconds to begin playing):
The “Cain and Abel” works were inspired by a small group of 15th century paintings and ink drawings known as Siyah Qalam (attributed to The Master of the Black Pen), that include a half dozen wrestling demon paintings reminding Speed of photos of American style high school team wrestling.
The three main paper sources for the “Cain and Abel” series were an 1870s Gustav Dore illustrated Bible from Sweden that was wrecked in a Galveston flood, pages from 19th Century woodblock printed issues of The Illustrated London News that she found on eBay, and wormholed Japanese woodblock prints from the same era. Read more about the “Cain and Abel” series at https://www.juliespeed.com/new-page-4.
Speed (born in 1951) is a distinguished American artist. After dropping out of the Rhode Island School of Design at age 19, Speed spent her twenties moving around the U.S. and Canada working pick up jobs (house painter, horse trainer, ad writer, farm worker, etc.) until moving to Texas in 1978 where she settled down and taught herself to paint. She switches back and forth regularly between oil painting, printmaking, collage, gouache and drawing, often combining disciplines. She lives and works in a century-old prison in Marfa, Texas.
Christoper Blay wrote about Speed in Art in America, “There is a kinship between Speed’s paintings and those of Hieronymus Bosch, the Surrealists and the Dadaists. But her work lives in its own realm, where we can point to absurd juxtapositions and put aside the law of physics and nature as torments build. Viewers find themselves in Speed’s own garden of human damnation where her vivid and dark organization delivers our long-delayed comeuppance.”

Ongoing news and events
CE Spring registration continues

Legendary Chef Johnny Vee, featured on the catalog cover, will offer three culinary classes
Attend a film premiere of “Blue: Life and Art of George Rodrigue”
Dozens of new classes offered on campus, 6401 Richards Avenue, and at partner locations
SFCC’s Continuing Education (CE) registration has opened with more than 150 offerings in SFCC’s Spring Continuing Education Schedule. Print copies are available in the racks at Santa Fe Community College, the Santa Fe Higher Education Center and around town. Visit https://www.sfcc.edu/ce for tips on registering and to view the variety of offerings available for personal enrichment or to develop professional skills.
Spring CE classes begin in January. “It’s a great time to register for a class as part of your New Year’s Resolution,” CE Director Benjamin Lincoln said. “We’re delighted to partner with Las Cosas Kitchen Shoppe at De Vargas Center where we will offer three new culinary classes taught by Santa Fe’s legendary chef, Johnny Vollertsen, known best as Chef Johnny Vee.” Chef Johnny Vee is featured on the catalog cover.
Lincoln added, “While we have many CE classes at the college, we’re also excited to continue our many popular classes with off-site partners such as Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado, CHOMP Food Hall and Sky Railway. A highlight this spring will be an opportunity to attend the premiere of “Blue: Life and Legacy of George Rodrigue” on Sunday, March 2 at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado.”
Cook with Chef Johnny Vee
Chef Johnny Vee’s classes include: A Culinary Tour of France, A Culinary Tour of Spain and a High-Altitude Baking Workshop. He’ll lead the classes in the kitchen at Las Cosas Kitchen Shoppe. A 10 percent discount at the shop is available at the completion of any of the classes.
Chef Johhny Vee began his career working in a variety of popular and famous New York City restaurants including Soho’s “Greenstreet,” Tribeca’s “Odeon” and Larry Forgione’s milestone “An American Place.” In 1985, Johnny was sought out by a company in Sydney to open an American-Style Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, a project that led to a chain of six Southwest cuisine restaurants in Australia and New Zealand called the “Arizona Bar and Grill.” After completing his final Arizona Bar and Grill location in New Zealand, he moved to Santa Fe.
Since his arrival in Santa Fe, the charismatic chef has had a distinguished career as an esteemed culinary instructor, caterer to celebrities, and as a popular food critic and culinary writer. He currently is a contributing writer to the Santa Fe New Mexican’s Pasatiempo.
Attend Film Premiere of “Blue: Life and Legacy of George Rodrigue”
The CE department has offered a variety of popular classes taught by Wendy Rodrigue, the widow of acclaimed artist George Rodrigue. Last fall, the SFCC Visual Arts Gallery featured the artist’s work in “Dream Big: The Art of George Rodrigue,” including his well-known Blue Dog canvases.
The CE department now offers the opportunity to attend the film premiere of “Blue: Life and Art of George Rodrigue,” on Sunday, March 2 in the grand ballroom of Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado. The documentary is an intimate exploration of the iconic artist behind the Blue Dog series. After viewing the documentary, participants will be part of a lively Q & A session with producer Jim Dotson, director Sean O’Malley and George Rodrigue’s widow, Wendy Rodrigue Magnus. There is also an option to attend a four-course dinner following the film showing.
Jim Dotson is a celebrated filmmaker and producer known for his compelling documentaries and cultural projects. His work includes “Gulf Aid: Concert for the Coast (2010),” which captured the resilience and solidarity of the Gulf Coast community through music; and “Fats Domino: Walkin’ Back to New Orleans (2008),” a tribute to the legendary musician’s influence on rock and roll. Dotson’s storytelling weaves together art, music, and history, creating impactful narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Director Sean O’Malley brings more than two decades of work experience with his wife and partner, Jeannine O’Malley, through their production company, O’Malley Productions.
Sample new wine classes
New classes by Sommelier Byron Rudolph will tempt your palate in the world of wine. He will teach the following classes: “Tour the Wine Regions of France,” “Wine 101—Grape to Bottle to Nose to Taste,” “Champagne for Every Occasion” and “Taste and Share Wine like a Sommelier.” These fun and engaging classes will be in person at SFCC.
Learn how to safely operate a drone
R.J. Pieper offers drone instruction and skills in two new course offerings.The first class, “An Introduction to Drones,” will focus on the fundamentals. At the end of the class, students will be ready to take the FAA TRUST test and will participate in a discovery flight. An intermediate course, “Drones at Work,” explores the various applications of drones as a versatile tool, covering fields such as photography, video production, agriculture, construction, surveying, and public safety.
Benjamin Lincoln, CE director said, “We’ve got a full range of classes to meet everyone’s needs. You can participate in classes during the day or join evening or weekend classes to fit your schedule. It’s great because you can attend a one-day class or a course that meets for several weeks.”
Winter Weather Tips

Click on the above slide to visit: https://www.sfcc.edu/sfcc-alert.
SFCC Safety and Security has shared the above Winter Weather Tips. SFCC is concerned for your safety. Please keep up-to-date on campus delays and closures. If you have not, please sign up for alerts at https://www.sfcc.edu/sfcc-alert/.
Also, you can always visit the SFCC home web page and social media pages to see any announcements. Any questions about these tips? Send an email to security@sfcc.edu or call 505-428-1224.

Watch the video of ‘Travelogue: Adventures in Siem Reap, Cambodia,’ presented by R. Charlie Shultz
Click on the video above to watch Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Academic Director R. Charlie Shultz’s presentation hosted by the SFCC Library on October 29 on Zoom.
“Travelogue: Adventures in Siem Reap, Cambodia,” featuring Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Academic Director R. Charlie Shultz
Academic Director of the Santa Fe Community College’s Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) program, Charlie Shultz, recently completed a 2-week Farmer-2-Farmer volunteer assignment in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The work was funded by the NGO, USAID. The assignment included delivering an intensive hydroponics workshop for agriculture extension agents and University students. A simplified hydroponics manual was also created for high school teachers to use with students with the goal of increasing interest in agriculture and other STEM related fields. Charlie’s talk discussed his work with rural Cambodian farmers and highlighted the wonders of Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.
Please click on these links for information related to his travelogue:
SFCC Foundation
SFCC-CEA
SFCC-CEA Facebook
USAID
Farmer to Farmer
CE SAIN https://www.cesain.org/
Angkor Archaeological Park
ATEC Biodigesters
Alchemy Studio
Watch Jake Skeets read and lead a creative writing session on video
The Fall Writing Generation series concluded with a reading and creative session with author/poet Jake Skeets. Watch for details for the Spring series. Enjoy this video!
Bio: Jake Skeets (he/him) is the author of “Eyes Bottle Dark with a Mouthful of Flowers,” winner of the National Poetry Series, American Book Award, Kate Tufts Discovery Award, and Whiting Award. His work has appeared widely in journals and magazines such as Poetry, The New York Times Magazine, and The Paris Review. Other honors include an NEA Grant for Arts Projects, a Mellon Projecting All Voices Fellowship, and the 2023-2024 Grisham Writer in Residence at the University of Mississippi. He is from the Navajo Nation and teaches at the University of Oklahoma.
The series is presented by SFCC Library and the SFCC Creative Writing Program. Visit sfcc.edu/programs/creative-writing/.
All videos can be found in the YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7H67Ojgmmo&list=PL6AhJfrOrlErcvW8Iayqy72Z4IaVtJKgp
12/16/2024, Santa Fe New Mexican, Smartboard Dec. 16, 2024-SFCC spring continuing education classes now open; SFCC higher education center to close for winter break
12/14/2024, Santa Fe New Mexican, “State higher education department requests 6% budget increase”
12/12/2024, Los Alamos Daily Post, “Santa Fe Community College Accepting Applications For Free Environmental Technician Training”
12/11/2024, Santa Fe New Mexican, “Santa Fe city councilors approve sale of midtown land to film studio”
12/11/2024, Albuquerque Journal, “Higher education leaders grilled on funding, return on investment by lawmakers”
12/09/2024, Los Alamos Daily Post, “Registration Now Open For Spring Continuing Education Classes At Santa Fe Community College”
12/09/2024, Of Interest, Santa Fe New Mexican, “264-lot housing development south of Santa Fe moving forward”
12/09/2024, Smartboard Dec. 9, 2024 Santa Fe New Mexican, —SFCC partners with doh to host free flu, covid-19 vaccine clinic, Santa fe community college to host ‘Big Band Holiday Concert’, Santa fe community college to host free film and tv classes
12/09/2024, Los Alamos Daily Post, “SFCC & NMDOH Offering Free Flu And COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic In Santa Fe Wednesday Dec. 11”
12/07/2024, Santa Fe New Mexican, “MY VIEW ALAN WEBBER–Midtown campus studio development is good for Santa Fe”
12/02/2024, Santa Fe New Mexican,10 WHO MADE A DIFFERENCE-Promoting aquaponics, providing greens (SFCC student Nate Downey)
11/04/2024, Santa Fe New Mexican, City of Santa Fe nears deal with film company to create region’s largest studio at midtown.
11/01/2024, Santa Fe New Mexican, Pasatiempo, “IN REMEMBRANCE-An artist’s passing”
10/30/2024, Santa Fe Reporter, “A Growing STEM”
10/29/2024, NBC News, “With costs of child cares soaring, New Mexico finds a way to make it free for many,” this video includes focus on childcare with highlights from SFCC Kids Campus Director Deyanira Contreras and SFCC early childhood teacher Randy Orona Torres. Read the full story here.