State of the School

By Eddie Ortiz

A new year has just begun, but before we move forward towards the future we must look back into the past.

During 2007, construction on the Fresno City Community College’s old Administration Building began, our college had a successful accreditation, and we almost had a presidential hopeful, Hillary Clinton, visit our campus.

Not a bad year.

Dr.Ned Doffoney, Kathy Bonilla, Public Information officer and Tony Cantu, Dean of Instruction are some of the numerous faculty and staff members at FCC who have described 2007 as “successful” and foresee an even more triumphant academic year in 2008.

“[Fresno City College] had strong successes.” Stated Dr. Doffoney

A highlight for Dr.Doffoney was achieving Accreditation. He made sure the campus was in good shape throughout 2007.

A good year is never without its share of tragedy.

“We lost some people in 2007, that’s always difficult,” replied Dr.Doffoney “That was a low-light of last year.”

According to Dr.Doffoney the main focus in 2008 will be student learning.

“Getting the word at is always a challenge” said Bonilla

She said the promotion of reconstruction of the OAB, a wonderful year in athletics, great plays within the Art Department, and wonderful concerts last year.

“2007 was a good year,” she stated.

“The construction on the OAB was a huge step in 2007.” Bonilla said

According to Bonilla, Dr.Doffoney did a great job in keeping a momentum going after the college’s successful accreditation.

The declining economy and upcoming presidential election will have a significant impact on students this year, stated Bonilla.

She predicts the possibility of fewer students attending FCC as the economy slopes downward.

During 2008, Bonilla will continue to be a spokesperson for FCC.

According to Tony Cantu seeing so many faculty members involved in outside interests was a highlight in 2007.

“It gives FCC visibility,” said Cantu.

In addition to Cantu’s praise with staff involvement last year, Cantu is also pleased with Associated Student Government’s performance in 2007 and seeing new faculty members grace FCC was a highlight in 2007.

“2008 will be exciting” stated Cantu

From campus growth to working on student initiatives, Cantu is excited to see these things take place this year.

“I plan on using all my vacation dates.” Said Cantu jokingly

According to Cantu he will continue to work hard and be the best employer he can be.

The previous year ended on a high note and accolades. However, school officials are predicting a better to come.

With construction in progress, the OAB is coming full circle; the campus is off warning and a wide open presidential election set to take place, 2008 will be anything but average.