Daniel J. Evans passed away at his home on Friday evening, September 20th,with family nearby. Dan was a prominent figure in the history of Evergreen and was a dear friend to the college at times when it needed help. He was the Governor who signed the legislation that created the college in 1967 and was among those who recognized that the creation of a new college presented an opportunity to fundamentally re-think higher education and design a truly innovative institution.
Dan became the college’s President in 1977 at a time when enrollment was declining and the political pressure on the college was intense. During his tenure, the college’s reputation and enrollment rebounded. He left the college to join the United States Senate in 1983, but never stopped serving as an advocate and friend of the college. His contributions to the college are memorialized in the naming of Evans Hall, one of the centerpieces of Evergreen’s Olympia campus, a building that houses the college’s Evans Library, the Art Gallery, and many of our student services offices. The college is proud to have a prominent building that bears the name of Dan Evans.
I learned of Dan’s passing on Saturday, when Dan’s son sent a message to let the college know. By a strange coincidence, when the message arrived, I was standing in the lobby of Evans Hall, where Kayla Mahnke, Director of Student Activities and New Student Programs, was speaking to a group of new Evergreen students and families, telling them how Evans Hall had got its name. Dan Evans leaves a legacy of principled public service. Let us all work to ensure that his example is long remembered.
John Carmichael, President
The Evergreen State College
Read more in the Seattle Times: 5 lasting legacies of Dan Evans, a towering WA governor and US senator.
Dr. Dexter Gordon, Executive Vice President of The Evergreen State College, has been recognized with multiple honors over the past year for his unwavering commitment to community and his efforts to remove barriers to higher education. These accolades underscore his dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment.
This past year at The Evergreen State College has been marked by significant challenges, including the tragic death of student, Jonathan Rodriguez from carbon monoxide poisoning in campus housing and the presence of an encampment on campus in protest to the war in the Middle East. During these difficult times, Dr. Gordon played a pivotal role in supporting the college community. He met with students, listened to their concerns and facilitated open dialogues between the administration and the student body. His compassionate leadership and commitment by addressing issues head-on have been instrumental in helping the college navigate these trying circumstances.
In May, Dr. Gordon received the prestigious award from the Old Harbour and Friends, an organization serving the Jamaican Diaspora in New York. This honor recognizes native Jamaicans who have made contributions to their communities and demonstrated outstanding leadership. The Old Harbour Diaspora praised Dr. Gordon for his dedication to education and his continued work in Jamaica – being a huge advocate for community activism in Old Harbor Bay including being a part of the Old Harbour Bay Home Coming Committee, a group that seeks to highlight the worth and work of the people from Jamaica’s largest fishing village. The Mayor of New York provided an accompanying citation acknowledging Dr. Gordon’s international contribution including noting that “Through his work, he has focused on providing opportunities for students, many of whom, like him, are the first generation in their families to attend college.”
Last year, Dr. Gordon was also recognized by the St. Catherine Municipal Corporation, in Jamaica, for his tireless work for his decades of work in the Old Harbor Bay community and surrounding areas. He received this honor, fittingly, on National Heroes Day. He was honored for, “being a true hero, one who works tirelessly, often without his cape.”
The recent honors of Dr. Gordon serve as a testament to his impact and positive change he has brought to every organization he works with. His dedication to community, education and inclusivity continue to inspire and influence Evergreen and the broader community.
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Built for Times Like These, Built for What’s Next
OLYMPIA — The Evergreen State College, in partnership with The Evergreen State College Foundation, proudly announces the success of its inaugural comprehensive fundraising campaign, “Forever Green.” The campaign concluded on June 30, 2024, having exceeded its initial $55+ million goal three months early and raising an impressive $62,469,046 to fulfill the College’s potential and propel it into its next 50 years.
The "Forever Green" campaign began with a silent phase in July 2019, two years before Evergreen’s 50th anniversary. It was publicly launched in March 2023, inviting the power of community giving to join the effort. Over 4,000 alumni and friends came together nationwide to contribute a total of 15,835 gifts, grants and estate commitments. Of those who gave, 1,161 made a gift for the first time. This remarkable achievement underscores the Evergreen community's commitment to supporting liberal arts in higher education and removing barriers for students.
The funds raised support three strategic priorities, including $36.1 million to expand holistic services and financial aid for students, empowering diverse thinkers, doers, and voices to lead the future. Another $18.4 million creates learning experiences that prepare students to solve problems in our economy, strengthen democracy and justice, address climate change and environmental issues, and champion the arts. Additionally, $7.9 million promotes Native arts and cultures in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, with the leadership of Evergreen’s longhouse, s’gwi gwi ? altxw: House of Welcome.
President John Carmichael expressed his gratitude, saying, "I’m tremendously grateful for the way that people have rallied to this campaign. It shows the high regard that people have for Evergreen. Their generosity is already making a difference for students and ensures that the College can continue serving our community for many years to come."
We Are Positioned Better Than Ever to Thrive
The campaign's impact across its priorities has been extraordinary thanks to an overwhelming community response. Donors of all giving levels from $5+ have significantly increased the student aid budget by 66% and the average scholarship award by 16%. As a result, new awards, like the Returning Greeners Scholarship, were created to bring back students who faced financial hardship and had to discontinue their education.
Alumni generosity helped create the Center for Climate Action and Sustainability, an innovative hub empowering students and environmental leaders. Alumni giving also expanded athletics to include men's and women's wrestling and cross-country programs. Additionally, an anonymous graduate's generous pledge of $1 million established the Resilience Fund for student support initiatives.
16 new endowments established by dedicated supporters of the College's vision are driving Evergreen's future. In 2024, an early alumnus pledged over $400,000 to create the first unrestricted Evergreen Fund Endowment, supporting critical strategic needs. The Coordinated Studies Endowment, initiated by Faculty Emerita Jeanne Hahn, will ensure the continuity of full-time, interdisciplinary and interdivisional, team-taught coordinated studies curricula and faculty projects. Additionally, a new House of Welcome Endowment will provide sustained support for Native programs, facilities, and staff.
The impact of grants has also been substantial. The College secured two federal grants totaling $1 million to support low-income parenting students with direct childcare subsidies and obtained funding to launch and staff the Student Basic Needs Center. Additionally, the TRIO Student Support Services programs saw a more than 50% increase in the number of students served, rising from 180 to 280. The House of Welcome received two grants totaling $4.8 million to assist other colleges and universities in working with tribes to support Native arts and cultures. Furthermore, a $2.2 million Title III grant was awarded to enhance comprehensive advising and improve student access to advising and support through technology.
In addition to its fundraising achievements, the campaign facilitated increased alumni engagement through events. Notably, new initiatives like “Greener Meets” convened alumni in Seattle, Olympia, Eastern Washington, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Tacoma, Portland, and New York City, fostering a stronger sense of community across the Evergreen network.
"It’s thrilling to have such a successful first campaign, especially considering the challenges we experienced along the way. Who would have guessed that a global pandemic would hit in our first year of the campaign? I am truly inspired by the outpouring of support from our community—it fills me with hope for a bright future for Evergreen," said Abby Kelso, Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of Evergreen’s Foundation.
The leadership of the Foundation’s Board of Governors has been instrumental in the campaign's success. Betsy Donnelly, a parent of an Evergreen graduate and the board’s chair during the final year, stated, “The success of the Forever Green campaign is a testament to the collective efforts and dedication of our Board of Governors.” She highlighted, “Diverse perspectives have brought fresh ideas and meaningful discussions, enhancing our mission to support students and showcase Evergreen's contributions.” Donnelly also noted, “Genuine camaraderie, friendly competition, and personal contributions have been crucial in achieving our fundraising and engagement targets. I am most proud of the board's unwavering commitment and their ability to inspire others to secure the success of current and future students.”
While Forever Green has concluded, the victory lap has just begun. During the 2024-2025 academic year the College and Foundation will embark on a celebratory “Gratitude Phase” to share the impact of the campaign far and wide and honor the community that made this historic achievement possible.
For more information about the “Forever Green” campaign and to read more stories of impact, please visit www.evergreen.edu/forevergreen.
OLYMPIA – The Evergreen State College is proud to announce its upcoming commencement celebrations, honoring the hard work and achievements of the Class of 2024.
The main commencement event begins at 1 p.m. on Friday, June 14 on Red Square at the Olympia Campus, rain or shine. All are welcome and no tickets are required.
In addition to the main ceremony on Friday, Evergreen is hosting many graduation celebrations throughout this week to celebrate the class of 2024 including graduate program hooding ceremonies, celebrations for graduating students who are veterans, in the Paths of Study Program, Lavender and Multicultural Advising graduations.
Muckleshoot Tribal Councilmember, Virginia Cross has been named this year’s Public Official of the Year. She will be honored at the Master of Public Administration hooding ceremony at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 13 at Evergreen’s House of Welcome.
Each year, the MPA program makes this award to leaders in state, local or Tribal governments or those who work in nonprofits. Cross is being honored for exemplifying the program’s motto of, “Be the Change.” For over four decades, Cross’ service in such roles as Councilmember and chairperson of the Muckleshoot Tribe and as the Director of Native Education Programs for the Auburn School district has directly benefitted students, Muckleshoot citizens and the Puget Sound region.
Both Evergreen’s Tacoma campus and Native Pathways Programs will have ceremonies for graduates from those programs on Saturday, June 15.
Because of the higher-than-normal number of visitors to The Evergreen State College for graduation festivities, parking will be free from 4 to 9 p.m. June 11-13 and from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, June 14.
Carpooling and use of Intercity Transit is encouraged. Graduates and guests driving to campus are encouraged to park in lots B and C. A shuttle will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to take guests from F lot to Red Square and again from 3 to 5 p.m. to return people to their vehicles.
Motorists traveling on Evergreen Parkway near the college can expect closures to inbound traffic from 2 to 4 p.m. to allow for guests departing the commencement ceremony. Expect delays and take alternative routes if possible.
For more information about The Evergreen State College graduation celebrations visit the webpage and to learn more about the college visit www.evergreen.edu.
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OLYMPIA – The Evergreen State College is proud to host an enlightening event titled "Disability and Voting," scheduled from 4 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 21. The event will take place in Purce Hall with a reception to follow.
The college welcomes the community to a thought-provoking conversation with esteemed co-directors of the Program for Disability Research at Rutgers University, Lisa Schur and Doug Kruse. The program explores the efforts being made to increase voting access and discusses the remaining challenges.
"The right to vote is a cornerstone of American democracy,” said Dr. Greg Mullins, Dean for Evergreen’s Library and Learning Support. “Many voters with disabilities appreciate Washington's mail-in ballots, and other options are needed to make voting accessible to all. Researchers like Schur and Kruse help us understand where we can improve.”
According to alarming statistics, if people with disabilities voted at the same rate as otherwise similar people without disabilities, there would be an additional two million voters in U.S. elections. Recognizing the importance of amplifying marginalized voices, Evergreen is committed to addressing the barriers that hinder individuals with disabilities from exercising their right to vote.
Founded in 2000, the Program for Disability Research at Rutgers University conducts groundbreaking research aimed at informing public policy and fostering positive social change. In a 2020 peer review, Rutgers University was ranked #1 globally for disability and employment research.
Professor Lisa Schur is a distinguished scholar who received the 2002 Best Article award from Political Research Quarterly for her seminal work on "Enabling Democracy: Disability and Voter Turnout." She is the founder of the Disabilities Studies minor at Rutgers University and a co-founder of the Program for Disability Research.
Dr. Doug Kruse, a leading authority in the field, has co-authored several influential books, including "The Citizen’s Share: Reducing Inequality in the 21st Century" and "People with Disabilities: Sidelined or Mainstreamed?" He served as a Senior Economist at the White House Council of Economic Advisors from 2013-2014.
For more information on this event, please contact Dean Mullins at mullinsG@evergreen.edu.
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On Tuesday, April 23, 2024, our students began forming the Evergreen Gaza Solidarity Encampment on Red Square on the Olympia Campus. As part of an agreement with the college, students ended the encampment on Wednesday, May 1. I heard impassioned calls from students to issue a statement on the college’s position regarding the catastrophe in Gaza. As part of the agreement reached between students representing the encampment and college administrators, I agreed to make this statement.
Like many, I am horrified and grief-stricken by the violence and suffering being inflicted due to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. I mourn the destruction of universities and hospitals, the killing of journalists, and want to see the release of prisoners being held without due process. I wish to see an end to the violence and restoration of international law, including respect for the March 25, 2024, United Nations resolution that called for a lasting, sustainable ceasefire honored by all parties, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, expanded humanitarian assistance, and the protection of civilians. Restoration of international law also requires that the International Court of Justice fairly adjudicate charges of genocide.
I share these thoughts as a member of this academic community, and I urge each of us to learn about the history of the conflict, the current conditions in Gaza and to speak about what we learn. Given the role that United States arms play in the conflict, we can do no less. Evergreen’s Evans Library maintains resources for more learning.
Beyond our individual responsibilities, Evergreen has responsibilities as an institution. In a time of war, the search for knowledge is more important than ever. Teaching and learning require an environment that values free expression and the open exchange of ideas. The encampment at Evergreen is a powerful example of what peaceful free expression can look like. Defending space for free expression is a core responsibility of the college. Alongside this is the responsibility to provide for the safety of our entire campus community.
The agreement we reached brought an end to the encampment and marks the beginning of a new phase of work. You can find the full text of the agreement on our website here. Taking demands for divestment and alternative models of crisis response seriously requires that we grapple with the complexity inherent in these subjects, so we are now beginning a set of deliberative processes where we can educate ourselves and each other to ultimately produce specific, actionable proposals.
For this work to be successful in creating positive change, we will need more than free expression. Free expression is rarely an end in itself. In an academic institution, free expression is a necessary condition in the quest for knowledge. Beyond free expression, we need the capacity to listen to each other, embrace inconvenient complexity, and welcome other points of view. Let us be especially on guard against Islamophobia and antisemitism as we engage with each other in this moment.
I am deeply grateful to the students, faculty, and staff who helped the college navigate the past weeks with integrity and fidelity to our mission. They fill me with hope for the work ahead.
The Evergreen State College stands firm in our commitment to inclusivity, diversity and equity. We are deeply disappointed by the recent ruling made by the NAIA regarding transgender athletes. As an institution that values the contributions and identities of all individuals, we believe in fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome, respected and supported.
Our college community embraces the principles of fairness and equal opportunity for all student-athletes, regardless of gender identity. We believe in the power of sports to unite, inspire and empower individuals from all backgrounds. We believe that every student should have the opportunity to participate in athletics without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
While we acknowledge the NAIA's decision, we remain committed to advocating for policies and practices that promote inclusivity and uphold the rights of transgender athletes. We will continue to support all our student-athletes and remain dedicated to making sure they have the resources they need to thrive in and out of competition.
-Elizabeth McHugh, Director of Athletics for The Evergreen State College
OLYMPIA — Two students from The Evergreen State College were honored with the 2024 Student Civic Award Friday, April 19 by the Washington Campus Coalition for the Public Good. This award recognizes the outstanding commitment to civic engagement and service these two students have had and the significant impact they’ve had on Evergreen’s campus and beyond.
The two students, Jocelyn Moreno and Drew Bland are being recognized for their work both on and off Evergreen’s campus.
"Being an award winner is a testament to both Jocelyn and Drew’s hard work and compassion, as well as the positive impact they have had on our campus and in your community,” said Dr. John Carmichael, President of The Evergreen State College. “I am proud of the vital role they have played in creating a better future for Evergreen and everyone whose lives you have impacted."
Jocelyn Moreno is being honored for showing remarkable dedication to community-based learning and action, exemplifying a profound commitment to effecting positive change. Between tirelessly fostering service and collaboration as a leader, intern and work-study participant, Jocelyn is continually bridging the gap between campus and community. Hailing from a Washington Farmworker family, their advocacy extends to Latinx and immigrant learners, demonstrating a passion for inclusive education. Their roles with the Center for Community-Based Learning and Action have notably contributed to initiatives such as Sound Learning in Shelton and Community Schools in Tumwater. Additionally, their internship with Together!, Bilingual Clubhouse and Evergreen’s elementary dual language program underscores their recognition of the importance of native language in education. Co-founding the campus student group La Familia and spearheading the El Camino path of study in Latin American, Latinx and Multilingual education further showcase Jocelyn's impactful leadership.
Drew Bland's receipt of the 2024 Student Civic Leadership Award underscores their exceptional service as a Center for Community Based Learning and Action student-worker at The Basic Needs Center. Drew's steadfast commitment to assisting peers and community members in fulfilling their fundamental human rights aligns with a broader vision of creating a more equitable world. Their integral role at the Campus Food Bank satellite intake processes and food distribution reflects Drew's deep-rooted experience in food justice, cultivated through work on various farms, including their own family farm. Drew's community engagement extends beyond campus borders, encompassing involvement with the Lacey Makerspace and an internship with Evergreen's new Center for Climate Action and Sustainability at the Estuarium, where they facilitate environmental education with school-age students. Notably, Drew's dedication to academic excellence is evident in their rigorous studies in Psychology Capstone: Clinical and Counseling and Applied Learning at the Dispute Resolution Center of Thurston County, all while maintaining a commitment to athletic pursuits.
Congratulations to both Jocelyn and Drew for being recognized for their incredible work.
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Olympia – The Evergreen State College is proud to announce the 6th Annual Equity Symposium, being held Wednesday – Thursday, April 17-18, 2024. With the theme of "Building Skillful Coalition," this year's symposium aims to empower our community with the skills necessary to challenge the systems of oppression that divide us.
Each year, the Equity Symposium provides a vital space for our community to come together in pursuit of knowledge and skills related to equity, social justice, and liberation. This year's theme underscores the importance of fostering collaboration and understanding in an era marked by polarization.
The keynote speaker for the 2024 Equity Symposium is the renowned human rights activist, Loretta J. Ross. As the recipient of the 2022 MacArthur Foundation "Genius" award and an Associate Professor at Smith College, Loretta brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the symposium. With a career spanning over four decades, Loretta has been a trailblazer in activism and social change since the 1970s.
Ross is known for her groundbreaking work on building coalitions through compassionate dialogue. In her acclaimed work, "Calling In the Calling Out Culture," she offers a transformative approach to overcoming political differences by emphasizing empathy and respect in difficult conversations. Her induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 2024 is a testament to her significant contributions to the advancement of human rights and social justice.
The portion of the event featuring Ross is open to the public but requires tickets which can be found at the EventBrite site – there will also be a virtual option to register for. For more information about the Equity Symposium, please visit evergreen.edu/equity-symposium.
OLYMPIA – In a landmark effort in bolstering STEM education initiatives, spearheaded by U.S. Senator, Patty Murray, The Evergreen State College has been awarded $2.1 million in funding through the FY24 appropriations bills signed by President Biden on March 9. This significant allocation underscores the federal government's commitment to advancing science education and empowering students to excel in critical fields.
The funding helps build a foundation for Evergreen to continue advancing science education programs, marking a pivotal moment in the institution's commitment to providing students with cutting-edge resources and hands-on learning experiences. With a focus on enhancing STEM offerings, the college will invest in state-of-the-art scientific and computing equipment, facilitating immersive learning opportunities that align with industry demands.
"At Evergreen, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and drive innovation," said Dr. John Carmichael, Evergreen President. "This generous funding allows us to build upon our successful STEM curriculum and equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape."
Central to Evergreen's mission is its dedication to inclusivity and diversity and the college is uniquely positioned to provide STEM education of the highest quality to students from all backgrounds. By investing in updated equipment and resources, Evergreen aims to foster an environment where every student can succeed and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.
"Our commitment to diversity and equity is at the core of everything we do," added Carmichael. "We are grateful to U.S. Senator Patty Murray for putting forth this appropriation. With this funding, we will further our efforts to ensure that every student has access to top-tier STEM education and the opportunity to pursue rewarding careers in high-demand fields."
Evergreen's comprehensive STEM curriculum encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including computing, environmental studies, climate change research, geographic information systems, mycological studies, cybersecurity, biomedical research and preparation for advanced healthcare degrees. Additionally, the college is set to launch several STEM-related certificate programs, offering shorter-term options for individuals to secure and advance in their future careers.
The $2.1 million funding is a milestone in Evergreen's ongoing commitment to excellence in education and innovation. As the college continues pushing the boundaries of STEM education, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower students and drive progress in Washington's economy and beyond.
For more information about The Evergreen State College, please visit evergreen.edu.
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