New Woodland College Deans
Ashley Leefeldt
Issue date: 4/17/06 Section: Campus Life
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Questions about the possibility of a new Associate Dean of Instruction and Learning Resources at Woodland Community College were answered in late January, when Dr. Beatriz Vasquez moved into her new office in the Science building (600).
With a genuine smile, gentle Argentinean accent and an office that smells like delicious candy, Vasquez welcomes all visitors. "As much as I can," she said, "I try to work on an open door policy."
Vasquez came to WCC after having served as the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs and a biology professor at Riverside Community College's Norco campus.
Although students were adjusting to their new class schedules after returning from their winter break, they noticed the addition of Vasquez's smiling face and cheerful demeanor as she said hello to students and toured the facilities.
By February a rumor was circulating that another new Associate Dean would be seen on campus. Although several sources confirmed that someone had been hired, her identity remained confidential until March, when Dr. Stacey A. Cook was revealed as the new Associate Dean of Student Services.
Arriving on campus with experience as the Director of Student Affairs and the Health Center at the College of Marin, Cook moved comfortably into her new position.
Attracted to Woodland's "surprising level of diversity," Cook was also responsible for the Children's Center, Matriculation, Outreach and the Student Equity Plan before coming to Woodland with prospects of working, "with as many different students from different backgrounds as possible."
If they listen closely, students who are having difficulty finding Cook can hear the faint sounds of her favorite lively Salsa music drifting from her open office door located near the rear entrance of the Administration building (100).
Both of the new Deans are a welcome addition, which was demonstrated by the large turnout at the student lounge, when a pizza party was held to introduce Cook and Vasquez to the students, faculty and staff.
Without a typical day to describe, Vasquez explains that her position as the Dean of Instruction and Learning Resources is challenging. Motivated by the personal belief that, "life is here-you have to face it and use it (because) it is short," Vasquez also enjoys the challenge of balancing plans for WCC's past, present and future.
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