February Newsletter
- si6304
- Mar 5
- 22 min read
Welcome to the Student Scuttle - a newsletter created by students, for students. In this March newsletter you can read about upcoming events on and off campus, the Cabrillo College student senate, current events regarding equity and inclusion on college campuses, the Cabrillo College Ethics Bowl Team who recently went national, find information about clubs on campus and even publication opportunities.
We’re so glad you’re here, we hope you enjoy the February issue of the Student Scuttle!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Fifth Grade Experience is Coming!
March 17, 18, 20, & 21, 2025
Fifth Grade Experience is making a comeback! We are excited to host over 750 5th graders to the Cabrillo campus over 4 days! We are looking for 20-30 volunteers each day to help with various tasks between 10AM-1PM on March 17th, 18th, 20th, and 21st.
Please sign up to help us here.
While we are hosting four event dates, we only need volunteers for three of them.
If you have any questions, please contact Sofia Ramirez, Outreach Coordinator, at Soramire@cabrillo.edu.
Thank you for your support in making this event a success!
LGBTQ Summit
The Summit is more than an annual gathering; it is a movement to make our educational system a beacon of inclusion and empowerment.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
The Summit is designed for students, faculty, classified professionals and administrators to come together to learn, share innovative ideas and develop strategies to improve campus and student support services. Whether you’re looking to build more inclusive programs, advocate for change or connect with like-minded professionals, this Summit is for you.
WHEN and WHERE
Dates: April 15 - 16, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Virtual! The link to join will be provided after registration.
REGISTRATION
Registration for this event is free! Use the link below to register.
Please follow us @Facebook/Instagram/LinkedIn/Newsletter
Sign-Up for all updates regarding the 7th Annual CCC LGBTQ+ Summit.
CONTACT INFORMATION
If you have any questions about the conference virtual platform, please contact conferences@foundationccc.org.
LOGISTICS INFORMATION
The California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs and events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be submitted to the Conferences and Events team at conferences@foundationccc.org.
APRIL 2025 - CAREER MONTH!
Resume Tips Workshop
April 10 from 6pm - 7pm (Zoom)
Learn to craft a standout resumé that
highlights your skills, education, and
experience in this hands-on workshop.
Click here for more details.
LinkedIn Workshop
April 14 from 6pm-7pm (Zoom)
Create a standout LinkedIn profile and
master online networking for job
searching.
Click here for more details.
Career Skills Classes
Cabrillo offers free, self-paced career
development classes to enhance your
resume, job search, and interview skills.
Click here for more details.
Job & Internship Fair
April 22 from 4pm-6pm
Cabrillo College
Watsonville Center
Click here for more details.
Job & Internship Fair
April 23 from 11am-1pm
Cabrillo College
Aptos Campus
Click here for more details.
*During our two Job & Internship Fairs, we would like to offer gently used professional clothing that students can keep for interviews and when starting new jobs.
We are in need of both male and female attire (in all sizes from petite to plus size), including shoes and belts. If you have some items, please donate clean and gently used clothing by April 1st to Dana at the Employment & Internship Office (SAC West lower level). This is a great opportunity to help our students and get a jump on your spring cleaning all at once! Contact Dana for any questions: dalogsto@cabrillo.edu
Honors Research Symposium
The Honors Research Symposium is an annual student conference hosted by the Bay Honors Consortium. The 2025 event will be hosted by UC Berkeley and features presentations of the year’s outstanding community college research projects, a keynote speaker, entertainment by a Cal student group, campus tours and an admissions workshop.
Date: April 26, 2025
Time: 10am-4:30pm
Location: UC Berkeley
Conference Registration Deadline: April 7, 2025 - Registration Fee: $50
Click here for more information.
Opportunity for small business start up!:
Do you have a business idea or a startup in the works? Want to compete for $27,000 in cash prizes?
Join an INFO SESSION to learn how Cabrillo Business faculty can help you apply for the 8th Annual Santa Cruz Launchpad Business Pitch Competition—the premier startup pitch contest for UCSC and Cabrillo College students!
What’s in it for you?
Compete for $27,000 in cash prizes
Gain exposure & pitch to industry experts
Get faculty support to refine your business plan
Network with successful entrepreneurs
Event Details:
Where: Cocoanut Grove, Santa Cruz
When: May 21
12 student teams will have 5 minutes to pitch their ideas to a panel of judges!
Open to ALL Cabrillo & UCSC undergraduate students
All majors & business models welcome—tech startups, social enterprises & more
At least one founder must be a current undergrad, non-traditional founders encouraged to apply!
Take the first step! Fill out this INTEREST FORM and attend an INFO SESSION to learn more.
For more details, contact:
Desha Staley-Raatior – destaley@cabrillo.edu
Laurienne Hammond – lahammon@cabrillo.edu
Don't miss this chance to launch your startup and compete for funding!
OFF CAMPUS
Interested in events off campus?
Check out Eventbrite or the event calendar at Lookout Santa Cruz for social events, celebrations, concerts and more!
Check out Action Together for opportunities to get involved with social justice and protest opportunities.
STUDENT SENATE
WHAT IS STUDENT SENATE
Student senate is the student body’s official shared voice in our shared governance at Cabrillo! The goals of the student senate are to support students through increased awareness and access of the senators, to help foster a community at Cabrillo by promoting engagement and connecting students to resources throughout campus. As they communicate in campus wide conversation, whether engaging with other students or bringing their concerns directly to the people who can make change, we want to ensure a transparency between the student body and our senators. It is our goal to increase holistic wellness by promoting student health services, financial literacy, physical activities, food resources and academic support programs.
We love hearing from our students! The Student senate meetings happen every Thursday with the third one of the month in Watsonville, and they are always open to the public. In SAC East 225 you can find us there from 3:30-5:00 on the Aptos campus and in Watsonville room A150. Find the zoom access through this link.
Being a senator is an honor in itself, you get to learn how decisions are made throughout campus, and speak for people who want a say in decisions! As senators, we try to table out on campus, pass around surveys, and do what we can to hear from the student body. We figure out what to do with the student budget, ensuring our funds are spent in the ways that cultivate a shared sense of community. It is our role on campus to represent you, and we are always looking for opportunities to do that! We schedule and plan events on campus, and learn about active resources Cabrillo offers then bring it to you all in any way we can!
MEET YOUR STUDENT SENATORS
President: Mia Nachazelova
Hi, my name is Mia Nachazelova and I am an international student from the Czech Republic. My major is Business Administration and Economics. I became part of the Student Senate through the elections last spring. I currently serve as the President of the Student Senate and I represent the student body on the College Planning Committee. I am proud to serve and support the students at Cabrillo College!
Email: asccpres@cabrillo.edu
Vice-President: Vivianna Moreno
Hello, my name is Vivianna Moreno and I’m the Vice President of the Student Senate. I’m currently majoring in Business Administration. A few fun facts is that I like bullet journaling and watching Formula 1. I was also apart of the first Puente MaS cohort at Cabrillo and I am pictured on the mural in the English building. I joined the Student Senate because I wanted to become more active on campus and also being able to give students a voice.
Email: asccvp@cabrillo.edu
Student Trustee: Cody Jarvis
Cody Jarvis, a second-year political science student, currently serves as the Student Trustee on the Cabrillo Student Senate where he represents the student body on the Cabrillo Governing Board, casting advisory votes on policy and various other issues. Additionally, Mr. Jarvis is a member of the Community College League of California’s Student Trustee Advisory Committee, where he collaborates with other Student Trustees on advising the league on legislation and policy matters. Mr. Jarvis previously served as the Legislative Representative and a delegate to Region IV of the Student Senate for California Community Colleges (SSCCC), where he actively advocated for Cal Grant reform and successfully passed multiple SSCCC resolutions. In his free time you can find Mr. Jarvis cheering on Cabrillo’s sports teams and also playing his guitar.
Email: ascctrus@cabrillo.edu
Róise O'Connor
My name is Róise, I am an Irish Immigrant and second year Anthropology major here at Cabrillo. This is my second year being involved and the first year I have been elected Treasurer and It has been a great learning experience handling the finances and I have loved the friendships and community that have been fostered. I was inspired to join the Senate ever since two of my sisters were involved and I saw the positivity that was spread by all of the events that I helped out with. Ever since COVID I saw how the pandemic caused a decline in community involvement and an increase of depression and reclusively in my generation of students, and I hope that my engagement in senate can promote positive mental health and a sense of community during my time at Cabrillo.
Email: ascctrea@cabrillo.edu
Inter-Club Council Chair : Elena Houle
Hi everyone! I’m Elena, your ICC representative for the 2024-2025 term. I love spending time outdoors, riding motorcycles, and going on spontaneous adventures. I’m excited to collaborate with the Cabrillo community to create and nurture an inclusive and diverse environment. Let’s make this year amazing together!
Email: asccicc@cabrillo.edu
Public Relations Director - Bianca Alves De Souza
Hi, I’m Bianca, an international student from Brazil. I’m studying Health Science and planning to apply for the nursing program soon. Since spring 2024, I’ve been the PR Director for the Student Senate, and it’s been an amazing experience. When I first arrived at Cabrillo, being away from my family was really tough. I felt both excited and lonely, and I knew I needed to find my place here. Thankfully, I was welcomed by a wonderful community that helped me feel more at home. That experience inspired me to give back, which is why I’m so passionate about my role in the Senate. One of my main goals is to help ensure our strong sense of community continues. As the PR Director, I focus on organizing fun events so students can enjoy being on campus, make new friends, and connect with each other. I want to maintain a supportive environment where everyone can share their experiences and feel like they belong, no matter where they come from. It’s important to me that everyone has the chance to find their own group and form meaningful relationships. I truly believe we can keep making our campus a welcoming place for all!
Email: asccdpr@cabrillo.edu
Wellness Ambassador: Andrew Richmond
I am 23 years old and have lived in Aptos my whole life. I’m double majoring in psychology and english and plan to transfer to a university in 2025. I’m passionate about connecting with people and helping others. I’m currently the President of the Active Minds Club and the Health and Wellness Representative on Student Senate. I’m extremely blessed and grateful to be in a leadership position that allows me to help build a strong and supportive community at Cabrillo while advocating for mental health awareness.
Email: asccwellness@gmail.com
Click here for more information about your student senators.
INTERESTED IN GETTING INVOLVED WITH STUDENT SENATE?
If you’d like to get in contact with a student senator, click here.
To become a student senator, fill out the form by clicking on this link.
In order to qualify for being a senator, you must have a minimum cumulative G.P.A of 2.0, and keep it at a 2.0 or higher each semester you serve. You must keep and maintain each semester you serve at least five units of classes. We would love to see your name in the elections (dates TBD)
THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S RECENT ATTACKS ON DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION
Editorial by Olivia McCloskey
There has been a lot of talk and fear surrounding the removal of the DEI practices many have been using. It is important for us to look at what DEI actually is, where it came from, why some are against it, and how it has benefited our country. D.E.I stands for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The notion of DEI first began in the 1960’s when worker unions started fighting back against the hiring process. In 1965 president Lyndon Johnson issued Executive Order 11246 which required government employers to "hire without regard to race, religion and national origin" and "take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to their race, color, religion, sex or national origin." This order went through the year after the Civil Rights Movement, where it became unlawful for employers of the federal government to discriminate on the basis of ethnicity.
Diversity Equity and Inclusion is used in an academic setting to ensure that any part of the institution is treated equally and has a fair chance at success, regardless of their background. When diversity is reflected in the faculty within an institution of higher education, it is more equipped to support a diverse student body through representation and relatability. Bringing diversity into a college campus is beneficial in many ways; including educational benefits allowing for students to learn more about the people that make up our world and country. When the campus is diverse in their students and faculty, racial and cultural awareness increases, ensuring higher critical thinking all around.
The equity component of DEI is essential in this equation. Equity is defined as “achieving parity in student educational outcomes, regardless of race or ethnicity, particularly, given the marginalization of some racial and ethnic groups in American education” (Center for Urban Education). This differs from equality by recognizing the different disadvantages people face and providing individual and adequate solutions or resources, rather than having across the board equal opportunity. Individual needs are recognized, and so the resources offered differ to consequently promote a more equal society.
In 2011 the Obama Administration issued an executive order that was to create a coordinated government wide initiative to promote diversity and inclusion in the federal workforce. This was intended to be a model for how other following institutions should act. The goal of this executive order took into account the economic aspect, where it is proven that when more diverse people are in the work field, the financial capital of that country consistently increases. The intentions included improving the union economic statuses, as a more diverse work environment would foster economic growth. The work force was to represent the public, and the diverse community across the nation. The order prioritized equity to ensure extra support to marginalized groups.
The Biden administration on his first day of office issued an executive order Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government. The executive order built off Obama's order, “Establishing a Coordinated Government-wide Initiative to Promote Diversity and Inclusion in the Federal Workforce” and was to include even more diversity including looking at the LGBTQ+ community as well as immigrants and people of color in equity efforts across professional and academic environments.
The Trump administration has replaced the last order with a new one titled; “Ending Radical And Wasteful Government DEI Programs And Preferencing”. The actions following this order include removing any form or notion of DEI from any hiring or promotive practice, and instead will solely look at an individual's level of commitment and work ethic. Any institution is to report back with any current plans they have involving DEI and remove them immediately, including any form of training or hiring practice. This executive order is antithetical to the efforts of equity we’ve seen from previous administrations and hinders the progress we could be making towards a more equal society. The “logic” surrounding this executive order is claiming that the Biden Administration was making illegal and immoral discrimination programs, and calling it DEI. The notion that the Executive Orders (E.O) enforcing DEI was producing a counter effect of reverse discrimination, where the people who have inherent privilege are no longer being prioritized, therefore being discriminated against. This notion may come across and be understandable at a first glance, but when one really weighs the consequences of “reverse discrimination” they can begin to see that it is simply evening the playing field. It may feel unfair to someone who has been at the front of the line for so long to be now, side by side with a neighbor. The administration in office currently believes that including DEI in the work or school environment is a waste of taxpayer money, which instead, should be “expending precious taxpayer resources only on making America great.” (E.O 14151).
While the rest of the executive order doesn’t make any claims on how to actually begin the process of making America “great”, it does attack the previous E.O heavily.
The argument that this administration is following when it comes to the removal of DEI stays consistent, but the people who are issuing this order are seeing the outcome from one perspective, and that is the privileged perspective. Claiming the DEI initiative promotes “reverse discrimination” and is undermining “merit based practices” Disregarding the value of equity and the role systemic injustice plays in an individual's success.
Research shows that systematic biases continue to affect racially or socioeconomically disadvantaged people in the workplace environment, whether through hiring or a job already held. Attempting to go about equality without taking ethnicity into consideration has proven time and time again to reinforce the racist system. The term “colorblind” has blind in it for a reason; the initial opposition to this approach was to include key mechanisms to counteract systematic discrimination.
When remaining colorblind in such a diverse country, you ignore the inequities which perpetuate inequalities, which serves only to perpetuate the problem. There is countless research on how DEI implemented more diverse work forces throughout the government, allowing for a representative voice to speak for its people. According to the 2024 Workplace DEI Report Companies that hire DEI consultants scored 8% higher on building teams that are diverse and employees who strongly believe the company values diversity are 84% engaged, while those who don’t are 20% engaged. Companies that value diversity have a 6.8% higher stock price than those that don’t. (The administrations supporting this also care about the economy!)
An example of a local movement towards proper representation is the Watsonville government. In 1980, Watsonville was at least 36% Latino/a/e, but a Latino/a/e person had never won a seat on the city council. Many Latinx residents felt totally ignored by the city government. In 1989 Latino/a/e activists sued the city government in a case called Dolores Cruz Gomez v. the City of Watsonville, arguing that this method of elections discriminated against Latinx residents by drowning out their votes. In the lawsuit that was brought all the way to the supreme court, the activists won! Their current governmental system is one of accurate representation, where Watsonville is divided into 7 districts, each year the districts elect their representative, and every year the position of Watsonville Mayor rotates from one district’s city council representative to the next. When it’s your district’s turn, whoever your district elected to the city council also serves as mayor. The recent mayors of Watsonville are now people that genuinely represent their city. Felipe Hernandez was mayor from 2015-2016 and was born and raised in Watsonville with a mom who worked at the canneries. He went to Watsonville high school and then straight to the army. When he returned, he worked manufacturing patio furniture for $7.75/hr. He attended Cabrillo, then Gavilan (a different community college) and helped grow a Chicano &Chicana student organization. He finished his degree at UCSC and did an internship in Watsonville city government. He was a union organizer and worked in the public library commission. Someone who was really able to advocate for those around him was now an elected official of a government where he could serve his people.
The initial research on hiring practices is why DEI came about. When looking into hiring practices, we see a clear bias from the hirers. The biases are usually hidden in the subconscious of the hirers, including confirmation bias, affinity bias and gender bias. There is a problem with our system, and so we must fix the system to fix the problem. In order to get around these biases that many people aren’t even aware they have (and we all exhibit at least a little bit of them!) we must implement methods to ensure equity.
There is a long history of discriminatory practices in America and the perpetuation of privilege through inequities. The revocation of this executive order and implementation of the new one is a clear example of a continuation of injustice, if not a regression of progress. The reasoning behind these executive orders is ignorant to the historical context and systemic injustices in America. It is imperative that we prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion throughout academic and professional environments in order to account for these challenges and promote a more equal society.
It is our duty as the future generation to promote inclusion! We want to hear what everyone has to say about decisions, we want every type of person in the room when discussing our future, and so we must stand by the methods that ensure that.
THE VALUE OF EQUITY IN INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Editorial by Emma Spath
When we examine our contemporary world, fraught with injustice and structural inequalities, we must consider the role of equity in institutions of higher education. From enhancing critical thinking skills and student engagement to preparing individuals for citizenship, diversity plays an undeniable role in shaping student learning outcomes. Given that inequities in America are deeply rooted in historical policies and continue to manifest today in wealth, education, housing, and criminal justice, the importance of equity and inclusion in higher education cannot be overstated. Access to higher education has been linked to increased economic mobility, improved civic engagement, better health outcomes, increased innovation, and the narrowing of equity gaps. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion, institutions of higher education can serve as powerful tools to counteract the effects of historically discriminatory policies. Despite progress in expanding access among marginalized groups, equity gaps persist—even within our own community. To continue closing these gaps, it is essential for institutions of higher education to actively promote diversity through inclusive efforts such as those implemented by Cabrillo College.
Empirical evidence strongly supports the value of diversity in fostering student well-being and academic success. Research indicates that diverse college environments enhance cognitive skills, such as analytical thinking and intellectual engagement. Studies have shown that exposure to peers from different racial and cultural backgrounds improves critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and engagement with complex issues. Additionally, students who interact with diverse peers tend to demonstrate greater academic engagement and self-confidence. A related study found that experiencing diversity contributes positively to academic development, motivation, and preparation for citizenship in a multicultural society. The book The Difference, Scott Page highlights the power of diversity, arguing that diverse groups outperform homogeneous ones in problem-solving and innovation. Given its indisputable benefits, it becomes clear why efforts to increase diversity are necessary to achieve the educational mission of institutions of higher learning.
Systemic inequities remain deeply entrenched in American society, spanning economic, educational, racial, and health disparities. Research confirms that these disparities are not incidental but rather the product of structural systems that have historically advantaged certain groups while disadvantaging others. The U.S. economy, particularly in the South, was built on the exploitation of enslaved people who were systematically denied access to education and wealth accumulation. Although the 13th Amendment abolished slavery, Black Americans were soon subjected to new forms of economic and legal oppression. From racial disenfranchisement during the Jim Crow era and housing discrimination via redlining to mass incarceration and the war on drugs, the repercussions of these policies continue to shape disparities in wealth, education, housing, and criminal justice today. Within education, predominantly Black and Latino schools receive $23 billion less in funding compared to majority-white schools, according to a 2018 U.S. Department of Education report.
To address these systemic inequalities, we must make education as accessible as possible for those affected by historical discrimination. Higher education is a powerful tool for redressing these disparities, providing individuals with opportunities for upward mobility and fostering a more equitable society.
Beyond individual benefits, education plays a crucial role in strengthening democracy. Access to higher education has been shown to increase civic engagement, an essential component of a democratic society. Higher education fosters critical thinking, political awareness, and participation in democratic processes, while also promoting social cohesion and tolerance. Exposure to diverse perspectives in college enhances cultural awareness, empathy, and reduces biases. Additionally, college graduates are significantly more likely to vote, with Pew Research Center data showing that in 2020, their voting rates were nearly double those of individuals without a degree. By equipping students with knowledge, resources, and opportunities to build social capital, educational institutions empower individuals to be self-governing and actively involved in democratic life.
The socioeconomic benefits of higher education are also well-documented. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that workers with a bachelor’s degree earn approximately 65% more than those with only a high school diploma. States with higher percentages of college-educated residents tend to have stronger economies, lower unemployment rates, and greater innovation. The demand for a highly educated workforce continues to rise. Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce projects that by 2031, 72% of jobs in the U.S. will require postsecondary education. Education, therefore, not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the long-term well-being of society—provided it functions as an instrument of equity rather than exacerbating existing disparities through inaccessible practices.
While higher education has helped narrow some equity gaps, particularly in enrollment and degree attainment, disparities persist, especially along racial and socioeconomic lines. According to The Pell Institute’s Indicators of Higher Education Equity in the United States, college enrollment among underrepresented groups increased significantly between 2000 and 2018. Hispanic student enrollment rose from 22% to 36%, with bachelor’s degree attainment increasing from 10% to 18%. Black student enrollment grew from 31% to 37%, with degree attainment rising from 17% to 23%. Women now constitute 60% of college students, reversing past gender disparities. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HISs - like Cabrillo) have played a critical role in closing these gaps by providing culturally affirming education and support. Additionally, increased investment in free community college programs, Pell Grants, and financial aid has expanded access for low-income students. However, while these efforts have improved access to higher education, outcome disparities remain a pressing issue.
For instance, Cabrillo College has faced a persistent equity gap between Latinx and white female students. Despite progress in promoting diversity, student success outcomes continue to favor white female students over their Latinx counterparts. Various factors contribute to this disparity, both on and off campus, making it imperative for Cabrillo to intensify its efforts in addressing the issue. By increasing Latinx representation among faculty and staff, providing accessible resources, raising awareness, and fostering an inclusive campus culture, the institution aims to bridge this gap. Administrators, faculty members, and students are actively working on solutions to enhance equity and improve student learning outcomes.
From hiring practices and admissions policies to student retention efforts and campus culture initiatives, Cabrillo remains committed to closing equity gaps. Programs focused on mentorship, academic support, and mental health resources play a crucial role in retaining marginalized students. Additionally, providing resources to support disenfranchised students. Recently, Cabrillo has exemplified this through providing sanctuary to students and staff members alike regardless of their background, identity or immigration status. As a response to recent legislation threatening the legal status of immigrants in America, Cabrillo has provided information and resources regarding federal immigration officials on campus.
Cabrillo’s Office of Equity is at the forefront of these efforts. According to its mission statement, “Our vision is to the point: making sure students from all backgrounds succeed in reaching their goals and improving their families and communities, eliminating achievement gaps once and for all.” While achieving full equity is an ongoing effort, it is a fundamental principle that upholds the integrity of institutions like Cabrillo College.
In an increasingly diverse world, we must recognize the long-term benefits of fostering equity in education. Institutions of higher learning play a pivotal role in shaping individuals' academic and professional opportunities while also contributing to societal well-being. To build stronger economies, enhance civic engagement, and improve social well-being, we must ensure that these institutions promote equity, acknowledging the historical context that has shaped present-day disparities.
So, what resources are available to help increase access among disenfranchised students? Click here to explore some of Cabrillo’s inclusion initiatives. By participating in these programs, raising awareness, and encouraging others to engage, we can contribute to a legacy of equity that future generations will build upon. You have the power to create a more just and equitable world—and it starts here.
THE CABRILLO COLLEGE ETHICS BOWL TEAM GOES TO NATIONALS!
The Ethics Bowl is a “unique, collaborative experience for undergraduate students that provides valuable educational experience in practical and professional ethics.
Teams spend hours analyzing and preparing for regional and national competitions to see who has thought most deeply and presented their arguments most clearly on cases based on today's most pressing issues. Students develop ethical understanding of complex, ambiguous, and difficult to resolve issues, as well as key virtues associated with democratic deliberation.” - Association for Practical and Professional Ethics
Students are tasked with analyzing many of the most complex moral conundrums of our contemporary world and collaboratively develop arguments to present in a competition with universities from across the region, and if qualifying, the nation. Incredibly, this year’s Ethics Bowl team had to work tirelessly to receive support to be able to participate in the first place. In addition to the rigorous preparation for their competitions, they were also garnering student and faculty support, raising funding and advocating for the Ethics Bowl to remain at Cabrillo in the years to come. Without the support of their instructor, Professor Claudia Close, who offered to support the team without compensation, it would not have been possible for them to compete. However, after receiving support from their philosophy department and HASS division dean, Paul Harvel, the team was able to come together and participate in the regional competition in December of 2024. The only community college present, Cabrillo sent two teams of 5 to the regional competition, but there were over 20 participating members involved in the preparation throughout the semester. Team “Kant Touch This” placed 10th out of 24 universities, and team “Serving Kant” placed third, qualifying them for the National competition in February.
Cabrillo College has proved to be a competitive powerhouse in Ethics Bowl in years past, qualifying for Nationals four times - more than any other community college in the country. Their qualification for Nationals gained the attention of The Aptos Times, as well as the financial support of the Cabrillo College Foundation, who supplied them with the funds to accommodate their trip to Norfolk, VA to compete at the National competition. One of only two community colleges present, Cabrillo’s accomplishment cannot be understated. Competing against some of the most reputable universities in the Nation, it was is an honor just to qualify. The six members of the team, Elena Houle (she/her), Starr Wenn (she/they), Kade Boe (they/them), Elektra Schrader (she/they), Olivia McCloskey (she/her) and Emma Spath (she/her) were proud to represent Cabrillo, especially as a team comprised of mostly queer women in a space which has been dominated by white men for decades.
One student said, “The Ethics Bowl was the single most challenging and rewarding academic experience I’ve ever had the honor of taking part in. I learned so much about social justice, communication, teamwork and subjects I normally would not have been interested in, but have discovered a passion for through this experience. I would encourage every student to consider participating, it would be an excellent addition to any major!”
If you want to get involved with Ethics Bowl in the Fall of 2025, fill out this form.
CLUB HIGHLIGHT
One of the best ways to become involved in campus life is by joining, or creating, a club. Th Club Rush event allows students to browse the existing Clubs on campus to see if any fit their interests. If you are interested in joining a club, this is an excellent way to see what options are available. If you are interested in creating a club, there is a chartering process available through this link. Additional information is available on the ICC homepage.
STUDENT PUBLICATIONS
If you are interested in submitting something for publication in the Student Scuttle, you can submit via this form. Any and all submissions are welcome, as long as they are school appropriate.
Any other inquiries should be directed to The Scuttle Team at si@cabrillo.edu
Additional publication opportunities are available at…
The Cabrillo Voice
The Cabrillo Voice is Cabrillo’s official news site. “Our mission at The Cabrillo Voice is to inform students and staff of campus news and local events. We exercise our First Amendment Rights to diligently report the news about Cabrillo College. Stories in the Voice are written and published by students.”
Journal X
Xinachtli Journal — Journal X — aims to give voice to social justice issues. We accept short fiction, short memoir, short plays and screenplays, short essays, poetry, art, and photography. We encourage experimental submissions. Submissions in English, Spanish, or Spanglish are accepted.
The Porter Gulch Review
Cabrillo’s Porter Gulch Review is a literature and arts journal which features prose, poetry, and artwork submitted by poets, novelists, photographers, artists, and other eccentric individuals in the greater Santa Cruz area and beyond. It's created by students in David Sullivan's 1B class every spring at Cabrillo Community College. The journal reflects the diversity and creativity of our community. However, submitters are not limited to the confines of Santa Cruz. In addition to the 2,000 print copies that are given away free, there is a longer online version that includes the student's book reviews and critiques of that year's chosen submissions.
Feedback Opportunity
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, suggestions or requests, you can share them via this form!
Comments