Flex Week Fall 2025

9 am - 11:30 am

CalPERS and You Zoom Link

Your CalPERS and You

For members who are new or midway through their career, get a basic understanding of your CalPERS benefits. Learn about how your retirement benefit is calculated, the options you have to set aside money for retirement in addition to your pension, what happens if you pass away or leave your employer before you retire, the importance of having a power of attorney on file, what you can find and do in your myCalPERS account, and more. What's Covered 

 · Class Introductions 

 · Retirement Income Sources 

· Retirement Types 

· Retirement Calculation 

· Ways to Increase Your Retirement Benefit 

· Power of Attorney 

· Leaving Your Employer 

· Pre-Retirement Death Benefits 

· Online Resources

Go to my.calpers.ca.gov and log into your myCalPERS account, then follow these steps: 

1. Select Classes from the Education dropdown menu options.  
2. “Instructor-Led” should be automatically displayed next to the “Sort By” field.   
3. This class should be automatically show up on your screen.  
4. Follow the screen instructions to finish your online registration. 

A zoom link will be sent by email from CalPERS. 

If you have any questions, please call our CalPERS Member Contact Center for help. 888 CalPERS (or 888–225–7377)  

Note: Spanish Interpreter available in Zoom Room. 
Nota: Intérprete al español. Sala en español por Zoom. 

Tiffany Washington 

CalPERS Associate Governmental Program Analyst 

10 am – 10:30 am

OMNI 403(b)/457(b) Administration Teams Link

OMNI 403(b)/457(b) Administration - What You Need to Know  

General overview of OMNI's administrative services. During  this session, we will walk through the OMNI website and review the most used features of Marin Community College  

District's 403(B) AND 457(B) Page. This will also be a great  time for employees to ask any questions that they may  have. 

Session Outcomes

• Participants will learn where they need to go in order to start, stop, or change 403(b) contribution amounts, as well as which providers are approved vendors for Marin Community College District. 

• Participants will learn where they need to go in order to ask questions or get assistance with their 403(b) account.  

• Participants will learn where to go in order to submit transaction requests such as loans, hardships, withdrawals and more. 

• Participants will learn some basic financial literacy information. 

Ryan Phillips,  

OMNI Plan Consultant 

10:30 am – 11:30 am 

Your Retirement Plan at Work Zoom Link

Meeting ID: 233 236 100 6247  

Passcode: 5FF2LS72 

Note:  Spanish Interpreter available in Zoom Room. 

Nota: Intérprete al español. Sala en español por Zoom. 

Your Retirement Plan at Work 

Learn the differences between 403(b)s and 457(b)s, 2025 contribution limits, different investment options and how they work, rules and restrictions of the plans and process for enrolling. 

Session Outcomes

• Participants will gain a better grasp on how much they need to start saving for retirement based on multiple factors including age, tenure and cost of living. 

• Participants will learn the different investment risks and know how these risks will affect their long-term goals. 

• Participants will have a better understanding of how each retirement benefit works together with the others to provide a comprehensive path to retirement.  

Su Plan de Retiro en El Trabajo 

Aprenda las diferencias entre los planes 403(b) y 457(b), los límites de aportación de 2025, diferentes opciones de inversión y cómo funcionan, reglas y restricciones de los planes y el proceso para inscribirse. 

Resultados de la sesión:  

• Los participantes obtendrán una mejor comprensión de cuánto necesitan para empezar a ahorrar para el retiro en base a diferentes factores que incluyen la edad, el tiempo de servicio y el costo de la vida.  

• Los participantes conocerán los diferentes riesgos de inversión y sabrán cómo estos riesgos afectarán sus metas a largo plazo.  

• Los participantes tendrán una mejor comprensión de cómo cada beneficio de retiro funciona junto con los demás para formar un camino completo hacia el retiro

Shawna Callahan

Angela Lingo

Kat Alvarado 

11 am – 12 pm 

Self-Care Check-In Zoom Link 

Meeting ID: 932 2548 6669 

Passcode: 482110 

Dial by your location 

• +1 669 900 6833 US  

Self-Care Check-In 

We’re in the second half of 2025 – can you believe it? In the new year, you may have set some goals for better self-care and well-being this year. Hopefully you are doing well with your self-care goals and needs this year. If not, no stress, guilt, or shame. This session is a chance to evaluate how your self-care and wellness goals are going so far and how you can realistically focus on self-care for this upcoming school year. 

Busy days go by fast, and we’re already starting a new school year. Before you know it, 2025 will be coming to an end. Let’s take a break, take some deep breaths, and focus on the present and what we can do to help our self-care needs for the Fall 2025 semester and beyond. Use this session to check in with yourself about your wellness needs as we guide you through some simple suggestions and strategies to help you discover what will work best for you. 

Session Outcomes

• Attendees will participate in self-care exercises to experience different ways of taking care of themselves.
• Attendees will leave with tips and strategies for incorporating self-care practices into their busy days.
• Attendees will discuss and brainstorm with others on how they can overcome barriers to self-care.

Mariah Caracoza 

KeenanWell Health and Wellness Manager 

1 pm — 2:20 pm

Dual delivery:

AC 245 and Zoom

Logopalooza Zoom Link

Logopalooza: COM's Brand Refresh and Centennial Visual Identity 

This presentation will roll out College of Marin's refreshed visual identity, including the special elements designed to commemorate our Centennial. Drawing from the Centennial Playbook, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the new visual identity and practical guidance on its use. 

Session Outcomes

• Understand how the unified visual system is intentionally designed to foster a stronger sense of belonging and shared identity across our diverse campus community and with our wider Marin County partners. 
• Implement the strategies and tactics in the Centennial Playbook throughout the upcoming academic year. 
• Utilize the visual identity toolkit. 
• Connect branding to enhancing our outreach and deepening our engagement with the communities we serve. 

Nicole Cruz 

Malaika Smith

Jesse Harbison 

11 am – 12:20 pm

Dual delivery: 

AC 245 and Zoom 

Digital Decluttering Zoom Link 

Digital Decluttering: A Sustainable Approach to File Management & Privacy 

Over time, unused video and document files accumulate, creating digital waste and potential security risks. This session explores best practices for responsible file deletion and archiving, helping you streamline storage while promoting data privacy and sustainability. Learn how to identify outdated files, implement efficient cleanup strategies, and understand the environmental and security impacts of digital clutter. Join us to ensure your digital spaces remain organized, secure, and sustainable! 

If you are attending in-person, please bring your laptop or personal device. 

Session Outcomes

• Learn best practices for identifying and responsibly deleting outdated files, reducing digital clutter, and supporting environmentally conscious file management 
• Explore strategies for securely managing files to mitigate potential security risks, ensuring compliance with privacy guidelines and protecting sensitive information 
• Discuss the new CCC TechConnect Zoom video deletion policy 

Stacey Lince (She/Her)

Scott Conrad (He/Him)

1 pm – 2 pm

AC 240

Note:  Spanish Interpreter available in the Classroom.    

Your Retirement Plan at Work  

Learn the differences between 403(b)s and 457(b)s, 2025 contribution limits, different investment options and how they work, rules and restrictions of the plans and process for enrolling. 

Session Outcomes

• Participants will gain a better grasp on how much they need to start saving for retirement based on multiple factors including age, tenure and cost of living. 
• Participants will learn the different investment risks and know how these risks will affect their long-term goals. 
• Participants will have a better understanding of how each retirement benefit works together with the others to provide a comprehensive path to retirement. 

Su Plan de Retiro en El Trabajo 

Aprenda las diferencias entre los planes 403(b) y 457(b), los límites de aportación de 2025, diferentes opciones de inversión y cómo funcionan, reglas y restricciones de los planes y el proceso para inscribirse. 

Resultados de la sesión:  

• Los participantes obtendrán una mejor comprensión de cuánto necesitan para empezar a ahorrar para el retiro en base a diferentes factores que incluyen la edad, el tiempo de servicio y el costo de la vida.  
• Los participantes conocerán los diferentes riesgos de inversión y sabrán cómo estos riesgos afectarán sus metas a largo plazo.  
• Los participantes tendrán una mejor comprensión de cómo cada beneficio de retiro funciona junto con los demás para formar un camino completo hacia el retiro

Jeff Isley, Retirement Services | VALIC Financial Advisors Corebridge Financial 

Thursday, August 14, 2025

9 am – 10 am

AC 240

Delta Dental 101

Learn how to register and create a login on the Delta Dental Website, as well as a demo to show participants how to search the Delta Dental Website for Delta Dental PPO Providers accepting new patients or other specific search criteria. Delta Dental plan enhancements, strategic initiatives, value added programs and resources will also be discussed. 

Session Outcome

• Learn how to register and create a login on the Delta Dental Website.  
• Learn how to find a Delta Dental Provider in your area. 
• Learn about Delta Dental plan enhancements, strategic initiatives, value added programs and resources. 

Ryan M. Neese, Delta Dental Account Manager/SISC   

10 am – 11 am

Benefits 101 / Open Enrollment 2025 ZoomLink 

Meeting ID: 977 4728 4476  
Passcode: 991594 

Benefits 101 / Open Enrollment 2025 - BenefitBridge Employee Benefits Portal 

In this educational workshop, SISC will present an overview of the medical benefits & the added value services available to College of Marin employees.  Also, Keenan & Associates will give an overview of College of Marin’s employee benefits portal, BenefitBridge. This platform will host all enrollments, benefit plans and rates, health plan resources, and so much more! This is a perfect time to ask all your benefit-related questions!   

Session Outcome

• Basic Understanding of Plan Terms & Benefits. 
• The importance of staying in –network. 
• SISC Added Value Services

Cristina DeGuzman/SISC, Keenan Team 

11 am – 12:20 pm 

AC 240 

Supercharge Teamwork: Mastering Teams & Share Drive 

Level up your collaboration! This 1.5-hour training offers best practices for Microsoft Teams & Share Drive, for everyone from new users to super users (management, faculty, students, classified). Learn to build community, reduce emails, streamline projects, and boost communication. 

What You'll Learn: 

• Community Building: Connect and engage effectively in Teams. 
• Email Reduction: Shift conversations and files out of your inbox. 
• Workflow Efficiency: Manage projects and collaborate seamlessly. 
• Clear Communication: Utilize Teams for transparent information sharing. 
• Tips for All Levels: Tailored guidance for beginners to experts. 

Session Outcome

• Confidently use Teams & Share Drive. 
• Foster online community. 
• Minimize email overload. 
• Improve project workflows. 
• Communicate clearly. 
• Apply best practices for your role. 

Angela Olmanson 

1 pm - 2:30 pm

CalSTRS Registration Zoom Link

CalSTRS – My Retirement System and CalSTRS Pension2 

CalSTRS will be conducting a webinar, designed specifically for Marin Community College District employees, combining two of our most essential webinars, My Retirement System + Start Saving Now with Pension2, into one.  

“My Retirement System” is designed to provide you with the foundation you need to know as a CalSTRS member. You will learn important topics that include understanding the CalSTRS hybrid retirement system, contributions, creditable services and other resources CalSTRS offers based on your career stage. 

"Start Saving Now with Pension2" provides information regarding the one voluntary component of the CalSTRS hybrid retirement system that may seem optional, but for almost all employees, is crucial for ensuring a comfortable retirement. CalSTRS Pension2 is CalSTRS’ voluntary defined contribution plan. Pension2 offers the opportunity to invest through tax-advantaged payroll deductions in low cost, flexible 403(b), Roth 403(b) and 457(b) plans for additional retirement savings. In this portion of the webinar, you’ll understand how valuable saving even a little money today will benefit you hugely by the time you’re ready to retire.  

Session Outcome

• Designed specifically for new or mid-career employees to understand CalSTRS contributions, creditable service and retirement formula. 
• Educate participants on other CalSTRS resources available.  

• Learn how saving through CalSTRS Pension2, will complement your CalSTRS retirement benefit.

• Discover how the CalSTRS Pension 2 features low fees and tax-advantaged contributions and a variety of investment plans.​

Angelica Fortunato, Defined Contribution Specialist/CalSTRS 

1 pm – 2:20 pm 

HR Office Hours Zoom Link

HR Office Hours: ePAF Q&A Hour 

In this session, members of the HR team will be available to answer your ePAF related questions. You will have the opportunity to submit questions prior to the session via a survey or you may ask your question during the open Q&A portion. 

Session Outcome

• Clarify areas of confusion around ePAF processing 
• Identify common processing errors and apply solutions 

Kat Alvarado Wing 

Tessa Kaplan 

Friday, August 15, 2025

10-10:50am 

EAP Orientation Zoom Link 

Meeting ID: 998 1481 4937  
Passcode: 015035 

PowerPoint Presentation

EAP (Employee Assistance Program) Orientation for Employees

When life feels overwhelming and you need a little extra support, we’re here for you. Whether you’re trying to manage a budget, plan retirement, or find childcare, we can connect you and your household members to the right people, resources, and tools. Learn about our services and how to access them  

Cristina DeGuzman/SISC 

Monica Wilson/ Anthem EAP 

11 am - 11:50am 

FSA 101 Education Zoom Link

FSA 101 Education (Health Care and Dependent Care)

Attendees will obtain an understanding of the Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Dependent Care FSA and Transit FSA, the benefits, and the rules & eligibility guidelines for enrolling in an FSA! Receive answers to your personal questions!  

Session Outcome

• Education and a clear understanding of how FSAs work 
• How participants can maximize their FSA benefits 
• Eligible Expenses & Contribution Limits set by the IRS 
• Plan Year, FSA Grace Period and Run-Out Period 

Beto Borja/ 

Sterling Administration 

10 am - 12 pm 

In-Person: IVC Organic Farm and Garden 

Gathering Location: Meet at Garden Gate

Cultivating Compassion Through Nature 

Scientific studies show that nature plays an important role in enhancing our creativity, compassion, and joy. In this workshop we will explore how the ABCs (Awareness, Belonging and Caring) have a positive impact in reducing stress, anxiety, and lifting our spirits. 

As a participant you will experience ways of slowing down and relaxing through guided meditations and engage in activities that stimulate your awareness, belonging, and caring. You will practice being in the present moment and reducing your stress level by using your five senses in nature. 

Bring a box lunch if you wish to stay after the workshop and eat with the other participants. 

Session Outcome

• Participants will explore the role of the ABC’s (Awareness, Belonging and Caring) in increasing their well-being 
• Participants will use their five senses to become more keenly aware of the present moment. 
•  Participants will have a better understanding of the role of nature in reducing stress and promoting happiness, creativity, and compassion 

Note: Please bring warm clothing and rainwear in case the weather is chilly and/or rainy. Bring a water bottle, warm clothing/layers as needed per weather conditions.

Andrés Edwards, ACT Compassion Ambassador; Certified Forest Therapy Guide 

9:30 am – 10:50 am 

AC 246 

Welcome New Employees 

Welcome to New Employee Orientation, a workshop designed for new hires and current employees looking for a refresh. This session will equip you with essential knowledge and insights to seamlessly integrate into the vibrant community college environment. This session will touch on topics like institutional structure, navigating campus culture, understanding different department roles, and resources for faculty and classified staff. 

Session Outcomes

• Understand the basic structure of the California Community College System and College of Marin.
• Apply the College's mission and values to their own employee experience.
• Identify available resources to facilitate a smooth new hire transition. 

Shawna Callahan 

9:30 am – 10:50 am

FH 110 & Zoom

Banner 9 for Faculty Zoom Link

Banner 9 For Faculty

Over the Summer we performed a required upgrade to the Student/Faculty dashboard. This session will go over the changes and share new functionality for faculty.

Session Outcomes

• Understand the new design and functionality of the upgraded portal
• Learn tips and tricks from beta group faculty

Jon Horinek

11 am – 12:20 pm

AC 245

Red Cross CPR/AED  - CANCELLED

Combination of videos and hands on practice with CPR/AED techniques 

Session Outcomes

• Attendees will receive CPR/AED certification from the Red Cross good for two years 

Paul Stewart 

11 am – 12:20 pm 

AC 255 

Preparing for Possible Immigration Enforcement 

Given the ongoing targeting of the undocumented community by the current federal administration, this presentation will provide participants with updates on how to respond to potential immigration enforcement on campus. We will also share resources for supporting undocumented students at COM. 

Session Outcomes

• Learn about local, state and federal laws that protect undocumented students 
• Know how to respond to possible immigration enforcement on campus 
• Connect undocumented students to support and resources

Hugo Guillen 

Mia Robertshaw 

1pm – 2:20 pm

AC 246

Accommodations: Access, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion 

The purpose of this session is to provide faculty with information about SAS, connect faculty with SAS support services, and answer questions about SAS. 

Session Outcomes

• Learn more about the different policies and procedures that are at SAS.   
• Find out what the counseling process is like for students who are getting in contact with SAS.    
• Have your questions answered about SAS.   
• Feel supported by SAS.   
• Get to know the SAS counselors. 

Carl Freschl 

Luna Finlayson 

1pm – 2:20 pm

AC 255

Elimination of Bias in Hiring and Employment: Tools & Training for Screening Committees 

Prior to serving on a recruitment and screening committee, all individuals must receive training on the elimination of bias in hiring and employment from the Human Resources Department on the following requirements and topics: 

• Title 5 regulations on Equal Employment Opportunity (Title 5, section 53000 et. seq.) 
• Federal and state non-discrimination laws. 
• The District Equal Employment Opportunity Plan and related District policies on nondiscrimination, recruitment, and hiring. 
• Principles of diversity and cultural proficiency. 
• The value of a diverse workforce. 
• Recognizing and eliminating bias in hiring decisions. 
• Best practices in serving on a screening committee. 

Session Outcomes

• Understand diversity and equity at MCCD. 
• Describe equal employment opportunity laws & policies and screening committee charge. 
• Identify unconscious bias and microaggressions. 
• Promote diversity and equity in the hiring process.

Nikki Harris 

Mia Robertshaw 

2:30 pm – 5 pm 

FA 121 

“Singing Bell” Metal Casting Workshop 

Our bell casting foundry is back in action with a new and improved bell pattern.  The new pattern is based on Tibetan Singing Bowls and are 3-printed. The resulting bell is a more graceful shape and produces a lovely resonate sound. Participants in this workshop will carve into a blank bell mold.  Then we will fire up our metal melting foundry and cast each participant's bell. 

Session Outcomes

• Connect participants to the consequence of the interaction of various elements involved in the teaching of making objects. i.e. machines and creativity, materials and processes, physical reality and safety, effective deployment of technology in arts and design curriculum  
• Identify the Materials and their applications as they pertain to sustainability and environmental action, including: disposal, safe handling and choices, acknowledge the economical considerations of production processes 
• Recognize the importance of everyone's roll in a collaboration 

Patricia Hulin 

Brian Young 

Art Lab Technician and Hayden Osborn, Sculpture Student, Marco Hyman-Romero and Elisabeth Doermann, Architecture faculty 

2:30 pm – 4 pm 

PE 20 

Getting Fit for Fall!!  

In this session we are focusing on working out and coming up with a fitness plan for the school year. This will be a chance to utilize the fitness center and everything that it has to offer. We will create a fitness plan for the school year, in order to work on physical and mental health. We will have music, attainable fitness challenges and refreshments! Come join the fun! 

Session Outcomes

• Identify healthy routines. 
•  Apply learned knowledge of the session to create fitness goals. 
•  Create a support system to help encourage you during the school year.

LyRyan Russell 

Michele Vaughn 

9 am – 10 am 

AC 245 

Reintroducing Puente to College of Marin

Join us to learn about the Puente Project, which is a University of California transfer program.  This session is the start of a year-long exploration of Puente, as we prepare for a relaunch of College of Marin's Puente Program cohort in Fall 2026.

Session Outcomes

• Participants will better understand the history and goals of the Puente Project.

Nohemy Chavez ( She/Her), Puente Project Coordinator  

9:30 am – 10:50 am 

AC 245 

CANCELLED

Brave Spaces: A Proactive Approach to LGBTQ+ Solidarity - Gender 101 

In Audre Lorde’s words, “without community there is no liberation.” This presentation covers foundational information about how to support LGBTQ+ students, colleagues, and community members. This workshop highlights how to be in solidary and practice inclusion specifically for marginalized genders. Participants will have the opportunity to examine their knowledge and critique paradigms that are harmful to LGBTQIA people and gain understanding and strategies that can help cultivate affirming spaces at College of Marin and in our larger communities. Please note: If you have already attended this training, stay tuned for a Gender 102 during Spring Flex! 

Session Outcomes

• Learn foundational terminologies of the expansive LGBTQ+ community.  
• Practice using inclusive and affirming language.  
• Takeaway tips and tools about how to cultivate brave spaces in their classrooms and communities. 

Tea Perales 

10 am – 12:20 pm 

AC 255 

Department Chairs & Coordinators’ Meeting

All chairs/coordinators, deans, and directors should attend.   This meeting will offer a concentrated, dedicated time for chairs and coordinators to discuss important topics for the semester. The information and discussion will be applicable to share at department meetings.

Dr. Dana Emerson

11 am – 12:20 pm

AC 246 

Look at African & African American Art Using Visual Thinking Strategies 

Using Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS), a facilitation technique developed for the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, participants will discuss what we see going on in at least two sub-Saharan masks and at least two paintings by African American artists. Rather than spend the usual six seconds of attention that the average piece of artwork gets in a museum, we will spend ten to fifteen minutes looking at and discussing each piece, identifying what we see, and providing visual evidence for how we interpret the artworks. There are no “right” or “wrong” responses here; every point of view is valid. VTS is a powerful tool not only for looking at artwork, but for reading and interpreting texts, doing scientific observations and analysis, listening to and valuing diverse perspectives, and fostering critical thinking while building community. 

Session Outcomes

• Support observations and interpretations of artworks using visual evidence 
•  Appreciate diverse approaches, perspectives, and interpretations of visual artworks 
•  Understand how multiple perspectives and interpretations to an object or event may be valid 
•  Evaluate whether Visual Thinking Strategies may be applicable to contexts within one’s own discipline or course curriculum 

Craig Coss 

1 pm – 2:20 pm 

FH 110 & Zoom 

Chaironomics Zoom Link

Chaironomics: Budgeting for Departmental Success 

Budgeting doesn’t have to be a mystery—or a headache. Chaironomics is a foundational training session designed for department chairs and future chairs who want to build confidence in understanding and managing their budgets. This session will cover the basics: how to speak "FOAP", how to access and read a report in Banner SSB, and what to do when you need to make or approve a purchase.  

Session Outcomes

• Effectively navigate budget and spending policies and procedures 
•  Understand the budget framework  
•  Efficiently review department budgets in the Banner Self Service System 
•  Review and approve requisitions  
• Confidently act as a fiscal steward for department 

Sam Jackson 

The Fiscal Team 

1 pm – 2:20 pm 

AC 246 

Safety, Security and Service: College of Marin Police Department and our Community 

Chief Aguilar will discuss ways in which Campus Police serves students, faculty, staff and the greater community. This will be an interactive lecture in which the Police Chief will answer questions and ask for feedback. 

Session Outcomes

• Understand the role of Campus Police in the current political climate.  
• Identify the role of Campus Police in contrast with other law enforcement agencies i.e. MC Sheriff. 
• Refresh or learn emergency procedures campus wide. 
• Comprehend Campus Police policies and procedures.

Raul Aguilar 

Dustin Ruiz 

2:30 pm – 3:50 pm 

Common Course Numbering Zoom link

Common Course Numbering Explained: A Guide for Faculty, Administrators, & Staff 

Fall 2025 is here! This means we are implementing three significant legislative changes (Common Course Numbering, Cal-GETC, and Title 5 changes to local General Education) that will have an impact on both our students' academic journeys as well as our local curriculum. In this session, I will provide clarification on these three legislative mandates and how they will impact students. The majority of the presentation will be an update on Common Course Numbering: what we have done, what we are doing now, and what is yet to come. Please come with questions, as I want to cater the presentation to the needs of COM's faculty, administrators and staff! .   

Session Outcomes

• Differentiate between the three major legislative changes in Fall 2025 (Cal-GETC, Common Course Numbering, and local GE changes).  
• Identify how a course may be impacted by Common Course Numbering 
• Locate resources related to articulation, Cal-GETC, Common Course Numbering, and local GE changes. 

Sara Malmquist-West 

2:30 pm – 4:30 pm 

Tennis Courts 

CANCELLED

Pickleball Tournament Anyone? 

Come create a fun filled atmosphere of Pickleball and music! Find a partner and let's have a battle of the departments on the Pickleball court! This will be a chance to have fun while learning the rules, implementing best practices and meeting colleagues while building community!  

Session Outcomes

• Connecting school disciplines 
• Building Community through a social sport 
• Creating a stress-free environment 
• Introduction to a new healthy activity

LyRyan Russell 

2:30 pm – 3:30 pm 

PA 134

Cultivating Campus-Community Engagement with Performing Arts! 

Come explore the Performing Arts Department! In this session, we will describe the upcoming programming for the 2025-2026 performing arts season and suggest a variety of ways these shows, themes, and artists could connect to the campus at large and your discipline specifically.  Themes may include Greek mythology, silencing of women, manifest destiny, gender identity, gentrification, and so much more.   We will review past collaborations with academic departments, describe some of the details involved in the production process, and visit 2-3 performance venues in the PA building.  Do you have an idea you'd like to explore?  We would love to hear your ideas and suggestions as part of a lively post-presentation discussion!   

Session Outcomes

• Identify potential connections between the Performing Arts 25/26 season and various departments and/or learning communities across campus. 
• Encourage reaching out to the Performing Arts community with collaborative ideas. 
• Develop an understanding of the PA process and activities.

Lisa Morse 

Erin McBride Africa 

Molly Noble 

Wednesday August 20, 2025

9:30 am – 12:50 pm 

AC 103 

New Faculty Orientation

Are you new-ish to teaching at COM? If so, welcome! We’re glad to have you as part of our faculty. We want to give you the support and information you need to be successful, so please join us for this orientation session. You will meet other new faculty and learn important information about COM policies and procedures to help ensure that you are ready for the first day of classes and beyond.

Session Outcomes

• Gain key information about College policies and procedures
• Learn about resources and support services
• Meet new colleagues

Cari Torres 

Steve Carrera 

9:30 am – 10:50 am 

AC 114 and Zoom 

Transform Your Course Design Zoom Link

Transform Your Course Design with Cidilabs Design Plus 

Looking to create visually engaging and user-friendly Canvas home pages and content pages? Join us for a hands-on session exploring Cidilabs Design Plus, a powerful tool designed to streamline and enhance your Canvas page design -- without HTML coding! Whether you're new to course design or looking to refresh your current courses, this session will provide practical strategies to build dynamic, accessible, and well-structured pages that improve student experience and navigation. Don’t miss this opportunity to bring your courses to life—join us and start designing with confidence!    

Session Outcomes

• Design engaging course pages using the Design Plus Sidebar  
• Explore best practices for organizing course materials effectively, improving navigation and student experience 

Stacey Lince 

11 am – 12:20 pm 

FH 110 

Increasing Access, Equity, and Retention with Zero Textbook Cost Pathways: A CCC System-Wide Initiative 

This informative session will familiarize faculty, staff and administrators with the current ZTC Pathways grant at COM. Presenters will also highlight the value to student equity, cost of attendance and retention. During the session, attendees will also be introduced to a variety of resources geared toward finding OER or ZTC options for their courses and determining if OER adoption is an option.    

Session Outcomes

• Locate and evaluate OER for a variety of disciplines.  
• Evaluate the feasibility of OER/ZTC adoption for their courses.  
• Explain the Zero-Textbook-Cost Degree Grant (ZTC) program

Michele Alaniz 

Ron Oxford

11 am – 12:20 pm 

AC 240 

Caring Campus: Small Actions, Big Impact 

Creating a campus where every student feels welcomed, supported, and valued starts with us. This interactive session introduces the Caring Campus initiative and explores how our college is currently fostering a culture of connection and belonging. Participants will learn about the simple, evidence-based strategies that faculty, staff, and managers across campus can use to create a welcoming environment that fosters student success. Whether you know what Caring Campus is or it is completely new to you, this session is for you! 

Session Outcomes

• Identify action steps to incorporate Caring Campus behaviors in any department or classroom. 
• Understand the goals and purpose of the Caring Capus initiative.  
• Commit to one small action that fosters a welcoming environment.

Alyssa Graff 

Caring Campus Committee 

1 pm – 2:20 pm 

AC 246 

COM CARE: Balancing Boundaries with Restorative Practices in the Classroom 

During this presentation, you will have the opportunity to learn about the resources and tools COM Care offers to help you with classroom management, balancing boundaries, and trauma-informed practices.  Additionally, you will learn how to effectively use the COM CARE intervention system, explore how to manage challenging classroom situations through case studies and expectations, and understand resources to support students with various experiences.

Session Outcomes

• Effectively use the COM Care intervention system.  
• Utilize tools to manage challenging classroom situations through case studies.  
• Identify expectations and resources to support students with various experiences, including trauma. 

Marco Cantua-Alvarez 

1 pm – 2:20 pm 

AC 245 

SAS Testing and Testing Accommodations: Leveling the Playing Field 

In this session, faculty will explore how to foster inclusive and equitable learning environments by understanding the legal foundations and practical applications of testing accommodations. Participants will gain insight into the diverse needs of learners and how accommodations play a critical role in ensuring access and fairness in academic assessment. 

We’ll discuss the legal responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, clarify common misconceptions about accommodations, and highlight best practices for implementation. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of cross-disciplinary and interdepartmental collaboration in supporting student success. 

Session Outcomes

• Recognize the purpose and scope of testing accommodations 
• Understand their legal obligations as faculty members 
• Collaborate effectively with campus partners to support students 
• Contribute to a culture of equity and inclusion within our academic comm

Xenia Zarrehparvar 

2:30 pm – 3:50 pm 

AC 245 & Zoom 

COM AI Collective Zoom Link

Come Learn about the COM AI Collective! 

Are you a faculty or staff member who is curious about AI and its current and future impact at COM? Consider joining the COM AI Collective - a Community of Practice (CoP). The purpose of the AI Collective is to create a collaborative space where faculty, staff, and students work together to explore and thoughtfully incorporate generative AI into teaching, learning, and institutional workflows. Whether you're an expert or just starting your AI journey, join us during this information session to learn more about the AI Collective.   

Session Outcomes

• Define a Community of Practice 
• Engage with colleagues about current AI use at COM 
• Identify key action items required to integrate AI thoughtfully and inclusively

Stacey Lince 

2:30 pm – 4:30 pm 

FA 214 

Learning to See Drawing Exercise 

Participants experience a process oriented lesson helping to remind them to trust what they are seeing as a mode of learning something new. This session confirms essential modes of building trust between students and teachers 

This workshop is a hands-on activity encouraging participants to trust the relationship 

between looking and drawing. This process reveals the universal relationship between visual skills and the application to other subjects. 

No prior experience with drawing or charcoal is necessary. 

(Some mess will be created. Don't wear clothes that shouldn't get dirty) 

Session Outcomes

• Participants learn to trust in the process of learning in a direct way. Hopefully helping to implement equity minded teaching practices. 

Carol Lefkowitz 

4 pm – 5:30 pm 

Performing Arts Lobby and Patio

President's Reception

All College of Marin employees are invited to join President Eldridge to kick off the new academic year, reconnect with colleagues, and look ahead as the College approaches its centennial year.

Thursday August 21, 2025    CONVOCATION DAY 

8 am – 8:45 am 

Performing Arts Lobby 

Meet and Greet – Coffee, tea and light refreshments 

9 am – 11 am 

James Dunn Theater 

Convocation 

Join your friends and colleagues as we prepare for the new year and hear important updates and information about the College.

As we kick off our centennial year, we are excited to have a keynote session by Elaine Lin Hering which offers practical insights to help us value one another, communicate effectively, and lead as one team, especially in challenging times. We’ll explore what gets in the way of our best intentions and introduce tangible tools so we can lead Forward Together. 

Elaine Lin Hering  is a speaker, facilitator, and former Lecturer on Law at Harvard Law School. She works with organizations and individuals to build skills in communication, collaboration, and conflict management. She has worked on six continents and facilitated executive education at Harvard, Dartmouth, Tufts, UC Berkeley, and UCLA. She has served as the Advanced Training Director for the Harvard Mediation Program and a Managing Partner for a global leadership development firm. She has worked with coal miners at BHP Billiton, micro-finance organizers in East Africa, mental health professionals in China, and senior leadership at the US Department of Commerce. Her clients include American Express, Chevron, Google, Nike, Novartis, PayPal, Pixar, and the Red Cross. She is a founding faculty at the UC Davis Wheelhouse Center for Leadership investing in community colleges. She was named a Thinkers50 global management thinker to watch and is the author of the USA Today Bestselling book Unlearning Silence: How to Speak Your Mind, Unleash Talent, and Live More Fully (Penguin).

Jonathan Eldridge  

Superintendent/President 

11 am – 12 pm

PA 72

Post-Convocation Breakout Session 

For those interested in continuing the conversation with our speaker, this is an opportunity to speak directly with Ms. Lin Hering.  

Elaine Lin Hering, speaker, facilitator, and former Lecturer on Law at Harvard Law School

11 am – 12 pm

Performing Arts Patio

Campus Engagement Fair

Take a moment to explore what’s happening across the college. Connect with representatives from various departments, programs, and committees sharing resources and initiatives available to employees this semester and beyond. It’s a great opportunity to learn, engage, and get involved with the campus community.

12 pm – 1:30 pm

Student Services Bldg., Cafeteria 

UPM Meeting & UPM Lunch 

Patrick Kelly 

1:40 pm – 3:30 pm 

Department Meetings Locations

Academic Department Meetings 

Friday August 22, 2025

9:30 am - 10:50 am 

Culturally Responsive Pedagogy and Practices Zoom Link

Culturally Responsive Pedagogy and Practices in Action: COM Faculty Share Their Work 

Are you curious about how to implement culturally responsive pedagogy and practices (CRPP) in your classroom? Join a panel of COM faculty that completed the CRPP Faculty Professional Development Certification Program as they share the work they have done and are implementing in their courses. This work provides tangible examples of how to take the academic theory of CRPP and turn it into real action.   

Session Outcomes

• Identify culturally responsive pedagogy and practices 
• Apply culturally responsive pedagogy and practices to courses at College of Marin 

Emily Fox (She/Her)

Beth Patel

Shaquam Edwards

Patty France 

11 am - 12:20 pm 

Leveraging Canvas Discussions and Pronto Zoom Link

Leveraging Canvas Discussions and Pronto for Meaningful Student Interaction

Whether you teach in-person or online, fostering a strong sense of community among students is essential—and Canvas Discussions and Pronto provide powerful tools to make that happen! In this session, we’ll explore the latest updates to Canvas Discussions, including multiple due dates that enhance flexibility and student participation. We’ll also highlight upcoming Pronto improvements designed to streamline reporting for Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI), ensuring compliance while deepening engagement. Additionally, we’ll demonstrate how to leverage Canvas Studio for video-based discussions, creating more dynamic and authentic student interactions. Join us to gain practical strategies for designing meaningful discussions that bring student voices to life! 

Session Outcomes

• Examine new Canvas Discussions features and learn strategies for fostering meaningful student interactions. 
• Gain insight into upcoming Pronto improvements that support streamlined reporting for Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) requirements. 
• Discover how to use Canvas Studio for video discussions and develop best practices for designing discussions that encourage authentic student responses. 

Stacey Lince (She/Her) 

Kathleen Smyth (She/Her) 

Sydney Dutson (She/Her) 

11 am - 12:20 pm 

Meeting Basic Needs and Supporting Student Wellness  Zoom Link   

Meeting ID: 843 9905 6253 

Meeting Basic Needs and Supporting Student Wellness 

A lecture on the services provided by the student activities and advocacy office under the basic needs program. Partnerships that are partnered with our office will present around their county level services and how it would benefit the students at COM in order to address the critical needs of students who may struggle in meeting their basic needs.   

Session Outcomes

• Connect to support services on campus and in the community which enable students to meet basic needs and respond to personal/financial challenges. 

•  Identify how students can benefit from financial coaching, housing support, food resources, technology resources, and personal/wellness support and advising. 

Lia Lara 

Sadika Sulaiman Hara

1 pm - 2:20 pm

Mandatory Revision in e-lumen Zoom Link

Mandatory Revision in e-lumen

Provide training for faculty in how to complete a mandatory revision in e-lumen 

Session Outcomes

• Complete a mandatory revision for their course in e-lumen 

Gina Cullen 

Grace Yuan 

Cari Torres 

1 pm - 2:20 pm 

Zoom 

Committee Work: Can’t Share Governance Without It Zoom Link

Committee Work: Can’t Share Governance Without It

Want to understand how decisions at COM get made, and how you can play a role in it? Join members of the Governance Review Council for an interactive session focused on our participatory governance system (PGS). Whether currently on a committee or interested in joining one, we’ll provide an overview of our PGS, share our recommendations based on our work last year, and answer questions you may have. Help ensure that all voices—including students, staff, faculty, and administration—play a vital role in shared governance and our college’s future. 

Session Outcomes

• Describe College of Marin’s Participatory Governance System 
• Identify strengths and opportunities for improvement in our system 
• Contribute effectively to shared governance 

2:30 pm – 3:50 pm 

Clarifying the New Student Experience Zoom Link

Clarifying the New Student Experience 

The new student experience starts well before the first day of class. In this session, the Welcome Center will present an overview of what steps students must take to enroll. You will learn what challenges students may face, how to navigate them, and the resources available to help. 

Session Outcomes

• Describe the application and enrollment steps for a new student at COM. 
• Identify challenges a student may face in getting started as a new COM student. 
• Direct a potential student to the COM application web page to get started. 
• Connect students who need assistance to the Welcome Center

Sally Wong 

Patrick Garretson