At Bothell High School, I co-founded a Communities for Our Colleges chapter with my classmate Sanika. As I enter my senior year, I’m taking college-level classes through the College in the High School program, which allows me to earn credits and save money. But I know that once I graduate, the real challenge begins. MyContinue reading “Student Story: Aika Yanagimoto”
Author Archives: ourcolleges_admin
How Rural Small Businesses Are Rallying Behind Free College
Across rural Washington, small business owners are speaking up about an issue that is often framed as a student concern—but is just as much an economic one. The video “Rural Small Businesses Rallying Behind Free College” highlights a growing recognition among local entrepreneurs: tuition-free community and technical college is not a luxury, but a necessaryContinue reading “How Rural Small Businesses Are Rallying Behind Free College”
Strengthening Statewide Power: C4C Builds Community and Student Leadership in Spokane
As part of our commitment to building a truly statewide movement for educational justice, Communities for Our Colleges (C4C) continues to organize actively in Spokane and across Eastern Washington. During the first week of December, we deepened ongoing relationships, expanded our base, and supported the leadership of students and families throughout the region. Our workContinue reading “Strengthening Statewide Power: C4C Builds Community and Student Leadership in Spokane”
Leading from the Ground Up: How Students Are Transforming Washington’s Colleges
Across Washington State, students are stepping up to lead—not just in their classrooms, but in shaping the policies that define higher education. “Leading from the Ground Up” follows student leaders in the Communities for Our Colleges (C4C) movement as they organize, advocate, and inspire change across campuses. From rallying for equitable funding and free collegeContinue reading “Leading from the Ground Up: How Students Are Transforming Washington’s Colleges”
Student Story: Leidy Rodriguez
My name is Leidy Rodriguez, I am currently studying for my GED and I want to continue my studies to have personal improvement and have a better job.
Student Story: Brandon Servin
My name is Brandon Servin. I am a YVC student taking English classes. I am very proud to be a community college student. I would like to study drone piloting in the future, but I face financial barriers.
Student Story: Zunduka Walker
My name is Duke, and I am originally from Zambia, Africa. When I entered the United States, I was mostly in foster care and then was adopted at five years old. I am currently a student at Yakima Valley College to pursue film directing and to one day write and film a movie.
Student Story: Leslie Duran Flores
My name is Leslie Flores. I am one of five children. I chose Everett Community College because it was close to home during my Running Start year. After many major changes, I finally decided to pursue a career in Nursing.
Beyond the Ballot Box: Centering Parenting Students in Higher Education Policy
“Democracy in Practice: Supporting Parenting Students in Washington” captures how democracy lives beyond the ballot box. For Communities for Our Colleges, democratic practice means shaping the policies and priorities that impact students’ lives — not just through elections, but through active participation in the institutions that govern our shared future.
Student Story: Leticia Baeza
Hello, my name is Leticia Baeza. I was born in Guadalajara, Mexico; I am currently 56 years old. I am attending Yakima Valley College to obtain my psychology or social work degree. I am studying to be a role model for my children. I have four beautiful children who are already adults, and one ofContinue reading “Student Story: Leticia Baeza”