Every year, on the fourth Saturday in February, we celebrate National TRIO Day—a time to recognize the life-changing impact of TRIO programs in communities across the country. Established by Congress in 1986, this day honors the success of first-generation students, students from limited-income backgrounds, and students with disabilities who are breaking barriers in higher education with the support of TRIO.
At The Evergreen State College, we are proud to collaborate with multiple TRIO programs, empowering our students to achieve their academic and career goals.
Join us as we:
- Celebrate the transformative power of TRIO in opening doors to education and opportunity.
- Reflect on the importance of equitable access to higher education for all students.
- Advocate for expanding and protecting programs that support student success. TRIO changes lives. But don’t just take our word for it—hear from Evergreen students themselves:
Melissa Hearitige
Why are TRIO programs important?
I am a new RA this year on Evergreen’s Olympia campus, and I work in the A building with majority under 21 students. I see a need for TRIO with all generations, but I advocate for my residents to seek out TRIO because it is that one place at Evergreen that really works for the students.
Every time I ask a student who is struggling if they have heard about TRIO they always say "No." Which means that I get the opportunity to tell them about TRIO and all the things they offer and how to qualify.
If I did not have TRIO, I do not know how I would make it through the school year and through my time here at The Evergreen State College.
Trina Griffis--TRIO alumna
How has TRIO supported you?
Being a first-generation, non-traditional student was not easy. When I first started college, I had no idea where to start, who to talk to, what the annual cycle was or what I even wanted to go to school for. I didn’t understand how college worked and it wasn’t until I connected with TRIO before I was able to gain the tools I needed to thrive in college and after graduation. I learned how to organize my academic life, I learned how to advocate for myself, and I know I would not have been able to succeed and graduate without the support of TRIO.
Nadine Larsson
How has TRIO supported you?
My TRIO advisor helps me with everything. She listens when I just need someone to do that. She really listens. And she gives great feedback and offers concrete tools that I’ve been able to use—and they’ve helped me. Not only that, but whenever I visit the TRIO offices, I feel welcome. The staff, each one of them, smile, and some of them I know by name…and, even with their student loads, they remember mine! I feel like they’re part of my family. I don’t need to see them often, but whenever I do it’s a pleasure.
College is scary. It’s something new, for everyone. If you’ve never experienced college life, and there’s nobody at home to talk to about it and about the impact of the classes, faculty and other students on you, I imagine it could feel very lonely. I say imagine because I haven’t had the chance to feel that. I am supported by a fantastic advisor and by a great team of trained professionals to help me navigate my classes, faculty and other students. Thank you, TRIO!!!
Katherine Mitchell
What does TRIO mean to you?
TRIO means getting support in my educational journey and being part of a community of people dedicating their time and energy towards learning. TRIO has impacted my student life by helping me balance and receive support in my educational journey.
Bailey Wilson
What does TRIO mean to you?
TRIO has impacted my life in a positive way as a student. I have met amazing people, received help so I could do my best in every class, and had a place to go for any question I have ever had. All the people working in TRIO that I have met have been nothing but thoughtful, helpful, and kind. They helped me get accommodations and helped me get in contact with others if they couldn’t help directly. Thank you, TRIO!
OLYMPIA – The Evergreen State College’s Willie Unsoeld Seminar Series is excited to announce an exclusive event entitled “March of the Pigments: A Colorful Trek through History,” featuring renowned pigment chemist Dr. Mary Virginia Orna. The event will start at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19, in Lecture Hall 1 in Purce Hall on Evergreen’s Olympia campus. Dr. Orna will invite the audience to examine the march of the pigments through human history, propelled largely by the concomitant development of chemistry, and the effect they have had on our history.
Orna is a chemist, historian of science and professor emerita of the College of New Rochelle in New York where she taught for 40 years. A pioneer in the field of color and pigment chemistry, she works at the interface of art and archeology, using chemistry tools to investigate them. In 2021, she was awarded the HIST Award for Outstanding Achievement in the History of Chemistry from the American Chemical Society. The author of many books and papers on the subject, Orna’s book titled “March of the Pigments: Color History, Science and Impact” was published in 2022.
After the presentation, there will be a book sale and signing, providing attendees with the opportunity to purchase Orna’s books and have them signed by the author.
This event is open to the public, and admission is free. Seating is limited, so early arrival is recommended.
OLYMPIA — The Evergreen State College proudly announces the governor's appointment of Joshua Coetzee, an international student from South Africa and Senior, as the newly appointed Student Trustee. Coetzee brings a wealth of leadership experience and a strong commitment to student governance and campus involvement.
Joshua is an active member of the Evergreen community, serving as a Resident Assistant and a member of the Geoduck Student Union and the Services & Activities Board. He is also a student-athlete on the men's soccer team, further solidifying his dedication to leadership and teamwork.
"I am honored to serve as the Student Trustee at Evergreen," said Coetzee. "I am passionate about servant leadership and student governance. I want to foster stronger connections among student leaders and get more students involved in supporting college activities and sporting events."
Coetzee's academic interests include Team Leadership, Business Leadership and Computer Science. He also hopes to use his platform as a Student Trustee to advocate for the international student community, encouraging more students worldwide to attend Evergreen. "I want to help create a truly global community here at Evergreen and add to the diversity that makes our campus so unique," he said.
Evergreen is proud to have Coetzee join the Board of Trustees as the student representative. His commitment to leadership and fostering a stronger sense of community will be invaluable as the college continues to provide a world-class education in a collaborative, inclusive environment.
TACOMA – The Evergreen State College will continue celebrating the long life of its Tacoma campus founder, Dr. Maxine Mimms, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 8, 2024.
Evergreen’s Tacoma campus will be hosting a, “Give Back,” event on Saturday, Oct. 26 to honor Dr. Mimms and to help carry out her legacy of providing community to those often left behind. Community members are invited to come to the campus and remember the legacy of Dr. Mimms and celebrate the community that is Evergreen Tacoma from 3 to 7:30 p.m.
Dr. Mimms became a member of the faculty at The Evergreen State College in 1972. She started teaching working adults college-level coursework at her kitchen table in the historic Hilltop neighborhood and it was at that table where Evergreen’s Tacoma Campus was born.
Evergreen-Tacoma became an official campus for The Evergreen State College in 1982 and in 2001, it moved to its current location at 1210 6th Avenue.
Dr. Mimms developed the Tacoma program with a deliberate mission to provide a college education to working and adult learners – especially those living in the inner city.
“This is a historic moment and pivotal loss for the Evergreen community,” said Dr. John Carmichael, Evergreen President. “If you know or have known Evergreen in the past over 50 years, you know about Dr. Maxine Mimms. We were so lucky to have had her as an inspiration and leader. She built a strong foundation for not just the college but for her community and we will continue as a college to build upon that, especially at Evergreen Tacoma.”
"While we deeply mourn the loss of Dr. Mimms, she truly embodied the spirit of community. Her vision to transform the lives of those around her is inspiring, and our sorrow turns to joy as we celebrate her life and legacy," said Dr. Dexter Gordon, Executive Vice President of The Evergreen State College. "Her life’s mission was to break down educational and economic barriers, making college accessible to learners who have historically been left behind."
“Her work has resulted in college degrees for thousands who have walked through the doors of Evergreen, Tacoma,” shared Dr. Marcia Tate Arunga, Dean for Evergreen, Tacoma. “The faculty and staff strive daily to continue her legacy to the students of Evergreen’s Tacoma campus and the Hilltop community.”
In 2020, The Dr. Maxine Buie Mimms Scholarship was established to support students at Evergreen Tacoma, with an emphasis on non-traditional, low-income students. This
scholarship continues Dr. Mimms’ work of making a college education accessible to all. This scholarship is endowed and will continue in perpetuity, ensuring that Dr. Mimms’ legacy lives on. If you are interested in giving to the scholarship or to learn more, please visit Evergreen’s website.
A celebration honoring Dr. Mimms is planned as part of Evergreen Tacoma’s Founder’s Day celebration in March 2025.
OLYMPIA—The Evergreen State College is proud to announce increased student enrollment for the fourth consecutive fall.
Despite challenges faced by students nationwide — from financial aid issues to ongoing recovery from the impacts of COVID-19 on learning — Evergreen continues to thrive as a beacon of innovation and community. As of Day 10, of the Fall 2024 quarter, Evergreen’s undergraduate enrollment is up to more than 2500 students, reflecting an 8 percent increase over the previous year’s numbers. The college has seen an especially significant increase in undergraduate enrollment, adding approximately 400 new students to the Evergreen community over the past three years.
Evergreen’s President, Dr. John Carmichael, attributes this success to the college’s unique learning environment and the dedication of its faculty and staff:
“This sustained growth demonstrates the powerful draw of Evergreen’s interdisciplinary, hands-on learning approach, which empowers students to take ownership of their education and emerge as changemakers in their communities. The Evergreen community has worked tirelessly to recover from the challenges of the pandemic and to emerge stronger and more committed than ever to our mission. Our staff and faculty deserve tremendous credit for their resilience, dedication and unwavering commitment to the success of our students.”
Dr. Dexter Gordon, Executive Vice President of Evergreen, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the role that leadership, collaboration, and creativity have played in sustaining Evergreen’s growth:
“The consistent increase in enrollment is a testament to the vision and hard work of our faculty, staff and leadership across the Olympia and Tacoma campuses. We have fostered a culture of innovation and inclusivity, which resonates with students looking for an educational experience that prepares them to address real-world challenges. We’re incredibly proud of the Evergreen legacy and the continued efforts to nurture the next generation of leaders, innovators, and collaborators.”
Evergreen’s enrollment growth comes at a time when many institutions are grappling with lower student numbers, particularly as students continue to face challenges with FAFSA, financial aid, and recovering from the educational disruptions caused by the pandemic. Despite these hurdles, Evergreen’s model — focused on interdisciplinary, experiential learning and fostering a deep sense of community — continues to attract students seeking an education that prepares them to make meaningful contributions to society.
With new students joining Evergreen’s undergraduate and graduate programs, the college is looking ahead to a bright future, knowing that those who cross the graduation stage will carry Evergreen’s spirit of change-making and collaboration into their communities and the world.
For more information on The Evergreen State College and its unique approach to education, visit www.evergreen.edu.
OLYMPIA – The Evergreen State College invites the public to explore The Art of Salish Peoples, an inspiring exhibition showcasing contemporary works from Coast and Interior Salish artists. The exhibit is open and will run through January 10, 2025, at the Evergreen Gallery in Evans Hall (Room 2204).
This unique collection features artists from Squaxin Island, Chehalis, Puyallup, Skokomish, Jamestown S'Klallam, Nisqually, Lower Elwha Klallam, Lummi, Port Gamble S'Klallam, Tulalip, Suquamish, Quinault and Colville Tribes. The exhibit is inspired by and includes several works by Ed Archie NoiseCat, a celebrated artist of Secwepemc and Stitlimx First Nations heritage. NoiseCat is completing the Boldt at 50 story pole at the House of Welcome carving studio on Evergreen’s Olympia campus.
Evergreen and the House of Welcome are located on the ancestral lands of the Squaxin Island Tribe, at the southern tip of the Salish Sea. This exhibit celebrates the deep artistic and cultural traditions of the Salish peoples while offering a contemporary perspective on their heritage and storytelling.
Gallery hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The gallery is closed on Tuesdays and Sundays.
For more information, visit Evergreen's Gallery website.
The Evergreen State College is proud to announce that faculty member, Susan Pavel, an accomplished artist and renowned expert of Coast Salish weaving, has been awarded a prestigious grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. This grant, awarded in conjunction with the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, will support an upcoming exhibit of Coast Salish regalia curated by Susan and other Native artists.
The exhibit, set to open in 2025 at the Burke Museum, will showcase the beauty and cultural significance of Coast Salish weaving, highlighting traditional regalia and weaving techniques passed down for generations. This collaboration will shine a spotlight on the rich history and artistry of Coast Salish communities and offer an educational experience for the public to learn more about Indigenous traditions.
Susan Pavel’s contributions to the field of Coast Salish weaving are well-recognized, and her work at Evergreen has been instrumental in teaching and preserving these important cultural practices. The recognition from NEH underscores her dedication to her craft, her role as an educator, and the ongoing partnership between Evergreen and the Native communities it serves.
Evergreen congratulates Susan Pavel on this remarkable accomplishment and looks forward to supporting her as the exhibit takes shape over the coming years.
Are you interested in learning more about weaving? The Evergreen State College offers a certificate that explores the realm of texture, color and design of weaving taught by Susan Pavel titled, Sheept to Shawl. For more information on this and other certificates offered through the colleges Professional and Continuing Education program, visit https://www.evergreen.edu/academics/professional-continuing-education.
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.