We Stand Together in Solidarity 

There were many Saturday nights as a child where mom gathered with other Mienh women in the community to connect, enjoy good food and share laughter. On many occasions, however, tears were shed recounting and reliving their experiences as pawns in the Secret War in Laos. It wasn’t until I was older mom shared this part of her life. The story begins with her family’s plan to flee the Pathet Lao government in Laos and the near certainty of death for siding with the US government. The final battle would involve crossing the Mekong River in the cover of night. They knew, to reach and cross the Mekong, an ultimate toll may have to be paid. They pressed on as mom tragically witnessed the murder of her parents, and two younger sisters. Family members who survived the attack managed to reach the safety of Thai refugee camps.  For mom, however, there was no comfort as the cost to find safety added further burdens; the expectation to care for her siblings, her husband, her daughter, and a son so to be in the womb while coping with the trauma of loss and survivors guilt. Flash forward to today, mom is still moving forward, gathering with fellow Mienh women in the community to heal and laugh. In reflection, mom embodied what it means to be human. Mom is strength and resilience defined in the face of fear, uncertainty, chaos, and death.

These past twelve months, I have had the privilege and honor to listen to similar stories of perseverance from students and colleagues. I hold dear the students who shared how they have lived in tents doing their best just to get by; colleagues and students who lost loved ones due to COVID-19; seen tears shed from those who do not feel safe due to racism and discrimination they see both on social media and on their front door; and many who are struggling to balance work, finances, mental health, family and school. Many have expressed they would like someone to talk to as they do not want to feel isolated or invisible anymore.

These stories from students and colleagues brings me back to my younger years, sitting in that living room with mom and her friends, listening to stories of struggle and strength. It tells me now, more than ever, that it is our connection that uplifts us. It is when we hear, see and care for one another that we can overcome any trials and tribulations. COVID-19 cannot take away our collective might, our humanity. 

For all of our Highline College students who are reading this blog, know that Highline College sees you. We stand with you and we care. We are dedicated to find new and better ways to support you and connect with you. You are not alone. We have gone through rough times the past 12 months and we will come out the better. Below are some of the resources and services our team is working on to support you and more is to come.    

In Solidarity, 

Ay Saechao, Dean of Student Support and Funding Services  

Important Dates for Student Success

• Wednesday, April 7th – Last day for web registration for classes. After this date, instructor’s permission is needed to add most classes 
• Friday, April 9th – Last day to drop classes for a 100% refund 
• Friday, April 16th – Last day to drop a class without a ‘W’ on transcript 
• More important Registration Dates/Deadlines Here

Student Services, Resource, and Activity Highlight

• Vice President for Student Services Aaron Reader’s Office Hours
  • Days: Mondays
  • Join Zoom Meeting: https://highline.zoom.us/j/88324876699?pwd=N2srZ3R0Q3RPT05yUFUzWUFoSzBYdz09
    • Meeting ID: 883 2487 6699
    • Passcode: 466964
    • One tap mobile+1-253-215-8782, 8-832-487-6699#, *466964# US (Tacoma)
•  COVID-19 Financial Relief Fund Application 
  • Are you a Highline College student with expenses related to COVID-19 pandemic? You may qualify for the COVID-19 Financial Relief Fund.
  • Application Period: Friday April 9, 8am to Thursday April 15, 5pm   
  • Website: https://www.highline.edu/covid-relief-fund/
  • Questions? Email caresfunding@highline.edu  
• COVID-19 Financial Relief Fund Application Help Sessions
  • Get assistance completing the COVID-19 Financial Relief Fund application
  • Date:  Friday, April 9, 3-5pm & Thursday, April 15, 2-4pm 
  • Zoom: https://highline.zoom.us/j/88494780736 

• Keys to Highline: Unlock Your Own Door to College Success by Advising and Student Success 
  • Come to this workshop to learn valuable strategies for making the most of your college experience. Hear from staff and faculty who will help you recognize your strengths and connect to the campus supports that are right for you (available virtually)! Make a plan to boost your grades, save time and money, and be less stressed on your way to achieving your educational goals. Everyone is welcome.
  • Dates/Times: 
    • Tuesday April 13 from 6:00-7:00pm
    • Saturday April 17 from 10:00-11:00am
    • Tuesday April 20 from 12:00-1:00pm

• • Zoom link for all sessions: https://highline.zoom.us/j/5056067898
    • Meeting ID: 505 606 7898
  • Questions? Contact Sarah Trimm, strimm@highline.edu or advising@highline.edu 

April Student Leader of the Month

To Be Announced 

(Nominate a Student Today Button!)

ctcLink

• Learn how to activate, register for classes and many other things through your new Highline ctcLink account here: https://www.highline.edu/ctclink/students/ 
• Zoom Help Sessions for Your ctcLink account:  https://www.highline.edu/ctclink/students/zoom-help/