Academic Senate to gain student voice

Share: In its ongoing effort to promote shared governance, the Academic Senate is adding a student representative to its ranks as well as representatives from the Classified Senate and Faculty Association. The Academic Senate has had its share of complaints directed at the school’s administration for what they feel to be blatant violations of shared governance, so members of the group decided it should represent interests beyond those of the faculty. “The executive committee is aware that decisions made by the senate most of the …

Not so fast Mr. Rocha

Share: The severance package that was awarded to Mark Rocha upon his retirement has been a huge point of contention since the news broke in August. But just when it was beginning to look like the Mark Rocha versus the world saga was just starting to come to an end, more fuel has been added to the fire. The non-profit group Californians Aware is accusing the Board of Trustees of violating open meeting laws by not properly referencing any action to offer Rocha the package …

Op-Ed: College seeks brave soul for difficult position

Share: One of the most important duties of a public relations director is to communicate with the press and other outlets in order to publish new information in a timely manner and to manage relationships with media outlets while making the organization in question look good. During the last year, those responsibilities were not consistently executed. Interim Director of Public Relations Valerie Wardlaw has moved on after a year at the position. She took on the position during one of the most controversial times for …

Editorial: The Out of Control Cash Cow

Share: Whether it’s for alleged sexual misconduct, physical assault, corruption, or for mysterious reasons, placing faculty and staff on paid administrative leave has become the norm here at PCC. Paid administrative leave is basically putting employees on timeout while they still receive full pay and benefits on the taxpayer’s dime. And usually, these positions are filled with temporary personnel that are left in limbo or the positions are not filled at all. It is unfair to students to be taught by someone who is uncertain …

World Cup Shines Spotlight on Growing Popularity of Soccer in the U.S.

Share: The FIFA World Cup is the world’s most watched sporting event. The month-long international tournament draws the attention of hardcore fans and casual fans alike. FIFA estimates that at least one billion people watched the World Cup Final in 2010, and the event draws millions of dollars in advertising revenue. It’s no mystery that the World cup gains so many viewers, as soccer is the world’s most popular sport. But the United States has always been an anomaly when it comes to the sport. …