The Evergreen State College is proud to announce the appointment of Onya Robertson as the Student Member of its Board of Trustees. Onya, a bright, dedicated and ambitious student, brings a wealth of passion and a commitment to student engagement to her new role.
Onya Robertson is currently pursuing a Master's of Public Administration at Evergreen's Tacoma Campus. She completed her undergraduate degree at Evergreen-Tacoma in 2023 and is known for her outgoing and driven personality. With a focus on Public Policy, Onya aspires to attend law school and ultimately serve as a judge.
Born in Pasadena, California, and raised in California's Inland Empire she now resides in Tacoma, Washington, with her two sons, Immanuel (15) and Mycah (12), and her faithful Husky companion, Naga (4).
In her role as a member of the Board of Trustees, Onya is eager to connect with students from both Evergreen campuses and uplift their voices and needs. She stated, "I'd like to empower students at both campuses and in all programs to see each other as comrades. I'd like for both campuses to feel like home to all students, and I'd like to see all events and activities attended by students from both Evergreen campuses. My hope is to end the year with more students than ever before (across programs) feeling included, heard, and seen."
Board of Trustees Chair Karen Fraser expressed her enthusiasm for Onya's appointment, saying, "Onya Robertson brings a fresh and student-centered perspective to our Board of Trustees. We are excited to have her passion and dedication as we work together to enhance the Evergreen experience."
Evergreen President John Carmichael also welcomed Onya to the Board, stating, "Onya's commitment to inclusivity and her determination to strengthen the sense of community among our students align perfectly with Evergreen's values. We look forward to her contributions and insights as we continue to prioritize student success."
For more information about The Evergreen State College's Board of Trustees and its mission, please visit the Board of Trustees webpage
OLYMPIA –The Evergreen State College will welcome trick-or-treaters at its Lord Mansion, located in the heart of Olympia’s historic Capitol neighborhood for its’s second annual Monster Mansion event.
From 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Halloween evening, staff, faculty, and student volunteers will be providing treats to all the ghosts, goblins, and of course, geoducks who venture up to the festively decorated “Monster Mansion.” Throughout the night, there will also be photo opportunities with Speedy, the college’s mascot.
The Lord Mansion aka the Monster Mansion is located at 211 21st Avenue SW in Olympia, just six blocks from the Capitol Campus.
Learn more about Evergreen’s undergrad, graduate and professional studies programs at the event or at www.evergreen.edu
###
On its 10th day of classes, The Evergreen State College proudly announces another surge in enrollment for the 2023-24 academic year, marking the second consecutive year of remarkable growth.
This year the college is celebrating a 23% increase in new student enrollment compared to the previous year. Undergraduate enrollment has grown by 11%, representing the most substantial increase since 1980.
"We are thrilled to witness such substantial growth at Evergreen,” said Dr. John Carmichael, Evergreen president. “This success underscores our commitment to providing a distinctive approach to teaching and learning that adapts to the evolving needs of our students and their families.”
“The sustained growth in enrollment is a testament to the dedication of our staff and faculty,” added Executive Vice President Dr. Dexter Gordon. “They have worked tirelessly to navigate the changing landscape of higher education and our world. We remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment that equips our students with the tools to make a lasting impact in whatever career path they choose.”
Athletic Expansion
In addition to enrollment growth, Evergreen is breaking new ground in athletics. Starting this academic year, the institution now proudly offers men’s and women’s wrestling and cross-country teams, becoming the only four-year college in Washington to have an intercollegiate wrestling program. This expansion is made possible by the generous donation from Evergreen alum Kim Kaufman ('78) and her husband, Jimmy Goldsmith.
Campus Infrastructure Expansion
Anticipating the increase in students on campus, Evergreen added 125 more beds to its on-campus housing over the summer. The comprehensive rehabilitation of Building A has successfully alleviated housing stress for students, enabling them to focus on their education.
William Ward, Chief Administrative Officer for Evergreen, expressed his excitement, stating, “We appreciate the great work of Willdan Consultants, the contractor who designed, led and executed the project in consultation with the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services and Evergreen’s dedicated facilities and residential and dining services staff.”
Highlighting First-Generation and Diverse Student Growth
"Evergreen’s first-generation students saw a significant bump this year, adding 68 new students whose parents did not get a four-year degree,” explained Dr. Gordon. “We are welcoming 274 students who are the first in their family to attend college, comprising 30 percent of this year’s new student class. We also have a more diverse student population, with a 6 percent increase over last year for Latinx and Native American/Alaska Native students. We are committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that reflects the diversity of our community and this growth demonstrates that students are finding their place at Evergreen.”
Increased Enrollment from Neighboring Counties and National Recognition
More first-year students direct from high school in neighboring counties across Washington are selecting Evergreen as their college of choice. With an over 40 percent increase, the institution has more than doubled the number of students from Mason County and seen significant increases in Pierce, King and Thurston counties.
Evergreen has received national recognition, ranking No. 20 out of over 600 colleges and universities across the country as a “Best Bang for the Buck College” and No. 4 for a Master’s University. The college was also ranked fourth best out of 613 institutions awarding bachelor's and master’s degrees.
Positive Impact of Return-to-Learn Initiative
Evergreen’s initiative to engage former students to return and complete their degrees is also having a positive impact. In Fall 2021, there were 45 returning Greeners who took advantage of a special incentive scholarship from the The Evergreen State College Foundation. This year that number jumped to 75.
Tacoma Campus Growth
The college's Tacoma Campus is also experiencing significant enrollment growth, especially in the new Early Childhood Education degree program. New student enrollment has increased to 63 from 38 last year on the campus, with nearly half enrolled in this innovative program.
College leaders agree that these increases define the appeal of an Evergreen education, as now more than ever, students are being intentional about where they want to go to college. They are looking for a place that reflects their values, offers hands-on immersive learning and provides evidence that their degree will help them meet their future goals.
For over 50 years, Evergreen has been a place where students can embrace the rigor of learning, engage in challenging innovative ideas and receive unwavering support as they acquire the skills needed to forge their own paths in the world. Evergreen remains dedicated to the legacy of encouraging independent thinkers and empowering future leaders.
For more information about The Evergreen State College, please visit www.evergreen.edu.
###
OLYMPIA – Governor Jay Inslee appointed Dr. John Carmichael, President of The Evergreen State College, to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education.
The WICHE Commission is comprised of 48 commissioners from 15 Western states and the U.S. Pacific Territories and Freely Associated States. The commission works to expand educational access and excellence for all residents of the West and promotes innovation, cooperation, resource sharing, and sound public policy.
President Carmichael brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role with WICHE. He has served as Evergreen’s President since 2021 and has been on the college’s staff for more than two decades serving in roles ranging from secretary, chief of staff and vice president for finance and operations.
“I am honored to have been appointed by Governor Inslee to represent Washington state and look forward to collaborating with colleagues from across the region to expand access to education so that our students can realize their potential and contribute to the region’s economic and cultural vitality,” said Carmichael.
To learn more about WICHE, visit its website and for more information about Dr. Carmichael and The Evergreen State College, visit evergreen.edu.
###
The Evergreen State College Tacoma Campus is excited to announce its upcoming Summer College Tour scheduled from 1-4 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 17. This event will provide prospective students with a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to pave the way for rewarding careers in various fields such as:
• Community and Organizational Development
• Law, Justices and Public Policy
• Public Administration and Management
• Environmental Studies and Public Health
• Social and Human Services
• Education and Outreach
• Early Childhood Development
During the tour, attendees can meet staff and faculty members who contribute to Evergreen-Tacoma’s reputation for academic excellence. Dr. Marcia Tate Arunga, Dean of the Tacoma Campus, will also be present to share insights about the unique learning environment and the college’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive community.
Evergreen-Tacoma is in the heart of the historic Hilltop neighborhood at 1210 6th Avenue. For more information contact Stella Haioulani or Lawrence Norman. For more information about the Tacoma campus, please visit the website.
###
The Evergreen State College’s volleyball team will be hitting the courts this fall with a new head coach, Carissa Bounds.
Bounds has worked at Evergreen as part of the college’s recreation and athletics’ program and has been the assistant head coach for the team since 2020. Previously, she was the head coach for the Black Hills High School volleyball team during the 2019 season.
Bounds received her bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of North Texas and a master’s degree in Adult Education from Eastern Washington University.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Carissa into this new role in the department,” said Zeb Hoffman, Associate Director for Intercollegiate Athletics. “Her background in adult education, previous experience with the team, and knowledge of the game makes her a perfect fit. I’m very excited for the direction the team is headed.”
Evergreen’s volleyball team will have nine returning players and welcomes eight new players for Fall. To learn more about Geoducks Athletics, visit gogeoducks.com. To learn more about The Evergreen State College, visit evergreen.edu.
###
At the June Board of Trustees meeting for The Evergreen State College, members voted to approve the 2023-24 college budgets and adjust student costs in response to the prevailing economic climate.
Evergreen leadership proposed these adjustments at the Board’s May meeting.
“Evergreen has long been known for not only its academic excellence but for commitment to inclusive learning and so the decision to increase costs was one that was not taken lightly,” explained Dr. John Carmichael, President of Evergreen.
“We remain dedicated to fostering an inclusive and accessible learning environment,” added the college’s Executive Vice President, Dr. Dexter Gordon. “Even with these cost adjustments, Evergreen remains extremely affordable for our students.”
The board voted to approve the 2023-25 operating, capital, athletics and services and activities budget spending plans as well as 2023-24 tuition and housing, dining and service and activities fees increases. Tuition will increase by 3 percent – the same increase is being requested by the most of other four-year, public institutions in Washington. These increases will help the college adjust to the skyrocketing economic costs associated with food, goods and housing that are affecting people across the nation.
The college has resources for students who may struggle with the adjustments in fees including its Basic Needs Center which offers food, hygiene items and other basic needs at no cost. They also offer appointments to help students apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program better known as SNAP through the state’s Department of Social and Health Services and housing support consultation.
The college’s Foundation is also amid its first-ever, college-wide fundraising campaign, Forever Green. The campaign has already raised $49.5 million of its $55 million goal to help students with financial resources so Evergreen can continue to put forth the diverse thinkers, doers and voices who can lead the future.
College leadership is confident that the cost adjustments will enable the institution to navigate the current economic challenges and continue providing an exceptional experience for all students. Evergreen remains true to its interdisciplinary approach to education with its commitment to academic freedom, social justice and sustainability.
For more information about The Evergreen State College, visit evergreen.edu.
###
Commencement for The Evergreen State College’s class of 2023 will take place from 1-3 p.m. Friday, June 16. At the time of this release, more than 650 graduates had registered to take part in the ceremony that will be held rain or shine in the middle of Red Square at the college’s Olympia campus.
This year’s commencement keynote speaker is Evergreen alum, Josh Blue, ’01. Blue’s quick wit and infectious laughter have helped him win competitions such as Last Comic Standing and captivated audiences in clubs and theaters across the nation, but it is his personal journey that truly sets him apart. Born with Cerebral Palsy, Josh is a catalyst for change, using his comedic talent to challenge stereotypes. His ability to find humor in the most unexpected places has made him a comedic sensation and a powerful advocate for disability rights.
Other commencement speakers include Faculty Speaker, Dawn Pichón Barron (Chowanoke/Choctaw/Mexican-Chihuahua/Euro roots) who is the academic director/faculty of the undergraduate Native Pathways Program; Undergraduate Student Speaker, Onya Robertson and Graduate Student Speaker, Sarah Brady.
“The Evergreen Class of 2023 have already proven to the world that they are resilient,” said Evergreen President, Dr. John Carmichael. “They have conquered the challenges of a worldwide pandemic while earning their degrees. Now they will go do what Greener grads do – go out into the world equipped with knowledge, resilience and the courage to make the world a better place.”
“I’m so thrilled to watch what is now my second commencement as Executive Vice President,” said Dr. Dexter Gordon. “These graduates all have potential that knows no limits. I challenge them to embrace the unknown, unleash their creativity and let their passion guide them toward a future where their dreams become reality. “
In addition to the main ceremony on Friday, June 16, Evergreen is hosting many distinguished graduation celebrations throughout the week to honor its graduates including graduate program hooding ceremonies, celebrations for graduating students who are veterans, in the Paths of Study Program, Evening and Weekend Studies and Lavender and Multicultural Advising graduations.
Both Evergreen’s Tacoma campus and Native Pathways Programs will have ceremonies for graduates from those programs on Saturday, June 17. For times and locations of all graduation celebrations, visit the graduation webpage.
Because of the higher-than-normal number of visitors to The Evergreen State College for graduation festivities this week, parking will be free from 4 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, June 13, 14 and 15 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 16.
Carpooling and use of Intercity Transit is encouraged. Graduates and their guests 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 the F Lot to Red Square and again from 3 to 5 p.m. to take people back to their vehicles.
Motorists traveling on Evergreen Parkway near the college can expect closures to inbound traffic from 2-4 p.m. to allow for guests departing the commencement ceremony. Expect delays and avoid the area if possible.
From 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, June 17, Evergreen will host South Puget Sound Community College’s commencement exercises and a brief closure of Evergreen Parkway will again occur shortly after noon to allow for people to leave the campus grounds.
For more information about The Evergreen State College, please visit its webpage at evergreen.edu.
###
The public is invited to a vibrant and meaningful celebration of Juneteenth at The Evergreen State College’s Tacoma campus from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 11.
This year’s celebration will feature Evergreen’s Executive Vice President, Dr. Dexter Gordon as keynote speaker, and music by Owour Arunga.
The event celebrating freedom is occurring a week before the actual Juneteenth holiday and will honor the day in 1865 when Union troops finally freed enslaved African Americans from Galveston Bay and across Texas, two and a half years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.
“This celebration will serve as a platform for community connection, celebration and education,” explained Dr. Dexter Gordon. “We hope that community members will come and help us as we honor the past, celebrate the present and work towards a future that’s rooted in equality and justice for everyone.”
Washington state passed legislation in 2021 to make Juneteenth a legal state-paid holiday – in 2007, the state’s legislature had designated Juneteenth as a day of remembrance. After years of advocacy, President Biden signed legislation, also in 2021, that made Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday. Both landmark pieces of legislation signify a crucial step in recognizing the long struggle for freedom and equality endured by African Americans in the U.S.
Evergreen’s Tacoma Campus is located at 1210 6th Avenue in the heart of the Hilltop Neighborhood. For more information about the Tacoma campus and its programs, visit evergreen.edu/Tacoma.
###
Governor Jay Inslee has appointed Pamela MacEwan to Board of Trustees for The Evergreen State College.
MacEwan recently retired from her role as CEO of the Washington Health Benefit Exchange where she helped lead the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in Washington state, standing up a unique health exchange for consumers and making health care available for thousands of previously uninsured Washingtonians. Under her leadership, the Exchange launched the first public option health insurance program in the nation and won federal permission to use the Exchange to cover undocumented workers.
“I’ve always wanted to have the opportunity to reinvest some of what Evergreen invested in me as a student,” MacEwan said. “Enrollment numbers are continuing to move in the right direction and serving on the Board during such a time of reawakening for not only the college but everywhere, is an honor.”
“Pam is the epitome of who Evergreen students are,” said Dr. John Carmichael, “She took what she learned during her days as a student at the Olympia campus and turned it into a lifetime of public service – a service that continues even after her retirement. We are excited to have her return to the college as a Board of Trustee member.”
She was previously Senior Vice President for Public Affairs and a member of the executive leadership team at Group Health Cooperative for 16 years, where she led policy, governmental relations, communications, media relations, consumer governance, and government programs strategy. Her prior roles in health care included serving as a Commissioner on the State Health Services Commission and leading a statewide coalition effort to pass comprehensive health reform legislation.
She is a proud graduate of the Evergreen State College, class of 1976. She has a Master of Arts in Teaching from Brown University and studied public administration in the MPA program at the University of Washington. She lives in Seattle with her husband, John (Spider) Burbank, a 1977 Evergreen graduate. They enjoy biking and cross-country skiing and spending time with their two adult children - Megan, a journalist, and Owen, a software engineer.
For more information on Evergreen's Board of Trustees, visit the college's Board webpage.