Dr. Chong Santa Rosa Junior College President

From the Superintendent/President

Dr. Frank Chong

Greetings to all Faculty and Staff!

It’s my pleasure to invite you to join me for the spring 2020 Professional Development Activity Day on Thursday, February 13, 2020 in the newly renovated Burbank Auditorium on the Santa Rosa campus.

As we enter this next decade in SRJC’s history, I know that we must prepare for the changes that come along with progress. The world was a very different place when the college was established in 1918 and in its 101-year history, SRJC has continually evolved to meet the diverse needs of more than 1.7 million students. As we prepare to help the next million students reach their educational goals, I know that one thing hasn’t changed: the dedication of an educational community that helps our students succeed. You are what makes SRJC the best.

I see that dedication in the faculty who spend countless hours to ensure their students have every opportunity to reach their goals. I see the commitment of the classified professionals who throw themselves into their work so that our students have the resources they need. And I see the tireless work of the administrators who support the programs and activities that help our students thrive.

And so, in recognition of your dedication, I hope you accept my gratitude and enjoy this wonderful professional development opportunity. The professional development committee has organized a number of exciting and informative sessions, including the Brook Tauzer Lecture by faculty member Shawn Brumbaugh.

One of the things I enjoy most about PDA Day is the opportunity to step back into the classroom as a student and to learn something new. Plus, I’ve been assured there will be no homework!

I look forward to seeing you on PDA day,

Frank Chong


BROOK TAUZER FACULTY LECTURE

The Brook Tauzer Faculty Lecture is the highlight of PDA Day each spring, and an honor for the faculty member selected to give it. The Tauzer Lecture is a long-time SRJC tradition (since 1987) named in honor of Brook Tauzer, who is an emeritus professor of history and former Vice President of Academic Affairs at SRJC. He worked at the college from 1955 through 1986.

The Tauzer Lecturer is an SRJC faculty member who has been selected for teaching excellence by a committee consisting of former Tauzer Lecturers.

 

2020 Brook Tauzer Faculty Lecturer

Shawn Brumbaugh

Slow down, look, & listen:  A perspective on the natural history of Sonoma County, and why nature matters.  

California, and Sonoma County in particular, is renowned for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity.  From a biologist’s perspective, we live in a truly special place; in less than a one-hour drive one can be at the coast exploring tide pools, to being immersed in the quiet solitude of the redwood forest, to wandering the grassy hills and valleys marked by iconic oaks.  Each of these places has its own natural history story.  The last few years have been difficult for this region, which is why it is so important that we slow down to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us.  Taking time to notice patterns in nature – developing an art of seeing – can inspire wonder and strengthen a sense of place.