Associated Student President Mike Casas spoke at the San Jose Evergreen Community College District Board of Trustee meeting, which was held on Tuesday April 24 at San Jose City College in the Technology Center.

Casas discussed the planned presentations. The focus was on some of SJCC’s programs and services, and this year’s presentations had a “Building Community” theme.  The presenters had the opportunity to tell the board about their programs and what they are doing to improve them.

“I think these (presentations) are the best moments that we have at board meetings,” trustee Maria Fuente said. “It’s when you’re highlighting all those special gifts that you have as an institution.”

The presentations showcased:

External partnerships, which were featured in a video that was produced by former journalism student Jared Duba. The video featured positive comments about SJCC from:

• Community Organizations
• Neighborhood Association
• Retirees
• Workforce Institute

Mary Conroy, early childhood education instructor, and Doriann Tran, international counselor, presented the Global Studies and the International Program.

The College Mission Statement was quoted:

“The mission of San Jose City College is to effect social justice by providing open and equitable access to quality education and programs that both challenge and prepare individuals for successful careers and active participation in a diverse, global society.”

• Conroy is attempting to institute a degree program for global studies.
• Tran discussed the International Program, which has 19 countries represented, and as of spring 2012, there are 52 students enrolled.
• Two international students spoke about the program and their experience at San Jose City College.

Jim Potterton, psychology instructor, made a presentation for the Mental Health Services Advisory Committee.

• Reasons students are dropping classes: stress, sleeping difficulties, anxiety, depression and alcohol/drug use.
• Potterton, who wants to enhance campus awareness of stigmatization, explained that many students drop their classes because of mental distresses.