“Our first magazine received many outstanding reviews and comments, so the expectations for our second edition were high,” said Frank Gornick, WHCCD chancellor, in his magazine column. “As you read these stories, I hope you will come away with a greater understanding of the enthusiasm all of us have for our mission to maintain a ‘relentless focus on student success.’”

The cover story highlights Mia Carius, a current West Hills College Lemoore student who lost her sight in a childhood battle against cancer. Also in this issue is information on Reg365, the revolutionary registration program West Hills College implemented this year. Through Reg365, students can now register for a full year of classes at once.

West Hills College demonstrates a long history of high academic standards for student athletes, and current and former athletic directors and students have the stories to back it up. Read how the district takes an active stance on student success in the issue’s athletics story.

Another story in this issue celebrates the 17 employees retiring from the district this year with a combined total of 380 years of service. That includes Jean Schawe, who worked for the district 40 years in her first and only full-time position.

West Hills College recently entered into a new partnership with Apple to bring iPads to the classroom. While still in the beginning stages, developments are being made that will allow students to lease an iPad for their classes and be presented with an opportunity to purchase the iPad at a nominal cost upon completion. Read more about the program in the magazine.

Also included in the Spring 2014 issue is a recap of the first Essential Elements series, “The Very Last Drop: Managing Water and Food Production.” The event attracted more than 100 leaders in agriculture, farmers, environmentalists and policy makers to discuss water issues in the Central Valley.

West Hills Magazine publishes three times a year. Copies are available at each campus as well as area chambers of commerce and public libraries. Printed issues were mailed out to a list of donors and friends of the district.

A link to the magazine is on the district’s homepage at www.westhillscollege.com. For a direct link, go to: www.westhillscollege.com/district/news_&_events/magazine/issue2/. The online version includes an option to download a PDF copy.