2025-26 Penguin Talks
Dr. Edwards kicks off this year's Penguin Talks series
The 2025-2026 Penguin Talks series, coordinated through Clark’s Community & Continuing Education program, opened with a presentation by Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards, who spoke about the Role of Community Colleges in Empowering Education for All, held at the Camas Public Library on October 6.
Dr. Edwards’ talk explored how access to quality education can transform lives and strengthen communities, blending data with personal stories that emphasized this impact.
Tracing the history of community colleges—an American invention, Dr. Edwards noted—she connected their mission to the themes of social equity and community well-being. She highlighted Clark College’s role in community development through arts and culture, youth programs, partnerships with community-based organizations, environmental sustainability efforts, and even affordable housing initiatives.
“You can start here and go anywhere,” she said. “Everything we do is in service to our community.”
Following her presentation, Dr. Edwards answered audience questions about funding challenges and the college’s ongoing efforts to support students and shifting federal priorities.
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The Evolving Role of the Public Library in Today's Communities
Jennifer Giltrop, Executive Director of Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries
Wednesday, October 15, 2025, 12-1 p.m.
Vancouver Community Library
Public libraries are more than book lenders—they are vital hubs of connection, learning, and opportunity. This presentation will explore how libraries continue to adapt to meet the changing needs of their communities, balancing traditional roles with innovative new services.
Key themes will include: access & inclusion: ensuring equitable access to information, technology, and resources for all; community impact: how libraries support education, workforce development, and civic engagement; innovation & adaptation: new services such as makerspaces, digital literacy programs, and community partnerships; and resilience & relevance: the ways libraries remain trusted, welcoming spaces that foster belonging and respond to pressing local needs.
Through a mix of real-world examples, compelling stories, and data-driven insights, attendees will see how public libraries are evolving into dynamic community anchors that strengthen social, cultural, and economic well-being.
Everyday AI: Understanding Its Role in Our Evolving World
Clark College Faculty Bruce Elgort
Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 12-1 p.m.
Vancouver Community Library
Artificial Intelligence is shaping how we learn, work, shop, and connect. In this talk, Professor Bruce Elgort will show how AI is already part of daily life, what opportunities and risks it brings, and why it matters for both students and the community.
Mental Health and Emotional Resilience in a Post-Pandemic World
Clark College Faculty Dr. Ona Aliaj-Parker
Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 12-1 p.m.
Vancouver Community Library
Addressing the importance of emotional resilience and mental health across both personal and professional landscapes. Explore how to build resilience in an ever-changing world, apply mental health strategies for individuals and teams, and understand the role of mindfulness and self-care in long-term success.
Native American, Indigenous, or Indian?
Jhon Kuppens, Enrolled member San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians Gabrielino/Tongva, Graduate Law
Degree Indigenous Peoples Law
Monday, November 3, 2025, 12-1 p.m.
Camas Public Library
Deepen your understanding of American Indian tribal histories, sovereignty, federal trust responsibility, and rights. Explore the impact of tribal politics, culture, law, jurisdiction, and values, while examining the legacy of historical trauma.
Featured photo: Clark College/Maureen Hefflin
Story by Malena Goerl, Staff Writer, Communications & Marketing