Congressman Costa with graduate

WHC Coalinga Alumnus of the Year Robert Clement

Graduation is a special time of year and I hope each of you took a few minutes during that busy time to reflect on the accomplishment of the students we serve. 

Each year, we try to profile a few students who overcame great obstacles to earn their degrees.  One story this year featured four NDC students, all women in their late 20s and 30s, who between them have 14 children.  They started ESL classes together in an adult school, moved to West Hills and served as each other’s support system (along with help from West Hills' faculty and staff) and graduated with honors.  When my energy sags, I remind myself that students like Graciela Hernandez, Mirna Fraga, Irma Rodriguez and Martha Frias make it all worthwhile.  Congratulations to them, and to all of you, for making opportunities available.

Speaking of opportunities, lost opportunities are always a disappointment and the defeat of Measure B, in my mind, is a major lost opportunity.  Having spent my entire life in Fresno and Kings counties (other than a few years away at college), I know how desperately educational and economic opportunities are needed.  Our rural communities are lucky to have West Hills and we are lucky to be a part of them.  Bureau of Census statistics show that college graduates earn, on average, $1 million more than non-graduates.  That $1 million goes back into the communities where graduates live.  The $130 million that Measure B would have generated would have also gone back into our communities too.  Maybe next time…

Summer is always my favorite time of year.  I love getting to the mountains and the beach and I love the longer days and the summer evening barbecues.  I’m really looking forward to our employee appreciation barbecue on June 26th at Jack Stone’s Barn in Lemoore.  At last count there were 70 families signed up to attend.  Don’t forget to RSVP with HR.  The deadline is coming up soon.  Another thing I love is family pictures. Newman-Garcia Studios from Lemoore will be doing them at the party.  This will be a great time to get the whole family together and have a picture for next year’s holiday cards!  See you there.

Frances