Kamila Xavier's journey as a single parent returning to school and pursuing a Certified Nurse Aid (CNA) career is remarkable, considering the trauma she has endured as a survivor of abuse. The impact of trauma can be deeply rooted and have a lasting effect on an individual's life, but Kamila refused to let her past define her future.
After years of dedicated service, George Keeney is retiring from his position as Allied Health Coordinator and EMS/ICS/Hazmat Instructor at PWSC. He has also taught Wilderness First Aid, Emergency Trauma Technician (ETT), and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) classes at Valdez High School. His passion for saving lives and teaching others how to do the same has impacted hundreds of students. His legendary generosity across his long history of public service throughout Valdez will be missed but not forgotten.
Have you ever been inspired by Denali? PWSC graduate Rafael Alfaro and current student Evan Clupper will lead a capstone trip to Denali National Park with Dr. Benjamin Rush, assistant professor of outdoor leadership.
Pat Drayer pursued his studies as a millwright student at PWSC, earning an Occupational Education Certificate (OEC) in Millwright. Notably, Pat's son Skylar also accomplished a significant milestone, graduating with an Associate of Arts (E-Commerce & Mobile Application Development). We extend our congratulations to Pat and Skylar for their achievement.
We recently had the pleasure of speaking with Sophia Hodgkins, a PWSC student graduating with her high school diploma and associate's degree. We asked her about her experience at PWSC and how she balanced high school and college coursework.
We're thrilled to thank The Prince William Sound Regional Citizens' Advisory Council for generously providing grant funds to PWSC! This partnership has significantly contributed to our student's education and professional development. We'd also like to thank and acknowledge our partnerships with the Valdez Native Tribe, the City of Valdez, and the Valdez Fisheries Development Association. With their support, our students had the opportunity to research their various projects.
Renowned voice talents Debi Derryberry (Jimmy Neutron, from Jimmy Neutron, Boy Genius) and Rodger Bumpass (Squidward, from SpongeBob SquarePants) are coming to the Valdez Theatre Conference to run voice-over workshops. They will have a two-hour discussion, Voice Over: How to Do It and What Does the Business Look Like, at 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, June 11. This is open to everyone and will be moderated by Stephen Rothman.
Amy Swatan's perseverance and dedication have led her to achieve great things. Despite facing setbacks, she obtained her GED with the support of her instructor, Dr. Teresa Barton, and pursued a Certified Nurse Aid (CNA) certification. With a job at the hospital and her sights set on a healthcare career, Amy's hard work continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams.
Attention all science enthusiasts! We are excited to announce the upcoming First Annual PWSC Environmental Sciences Symposium featuring four students presenting their marine research projects and three presenting their Natural History of Alaska posters.
PWSC invites everyone to attend our in-person commencement ceremony to celebrate our graduates' tremendous achievement! The ceremony will be held at 7 p.m. in the PWSC Atrium.
