Area Report for Board of Trustees

Dear Board of Trustees,

As we enter February, we recognize Black History Month as an important time for learning, reflection, and renewed commitment. In higher education, Black History Month is more than a symbolic observance; it is directly connected to our responsibility to educate students fully and honestly about the world they inhabit.

Black history is global history. The experiences, contributions, and leadership of people of African descent are deeply woven into the history of nations across the globe. Black communities have played essential roles in shaping politics, economics, science, culture, and education worldwide. These contributions are central to understanding modern society, not supplemental to it.

 The celebration of Black History Month highlights the importance of fostering inclusivity within teaching, research, and scholarship. This annual observance prompts us to reflect on whose narratives are represented, whose perspectives are prioritized, and how we equip students to participate meaningfully in an increasingly diverse and interconnected society. By dedicating themselves to the presentation of a more complete and nuanced history, colleges and universities enhance academic excellence for every student.

This month also serves as a reminder that this work should extend beyond February. Supporting inclusive learning environments, broad access to opportunity, and global perspectives throughout the year reflects the core values of higher education, especially at Highline College. 

Happy Black History Month! Thank you for your continued leadership and support of Highline College’s educational mission, vision, and values, which are rooted in access and equity. 

Kind regards,

Jamilyn Penn
Interim President, Highline College 

President’s Office

Core Theme 3: COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS, Create a more inclusive working environment and a more valued, visible relationship with communities we serve

• Joined Josh Gerstman in a discussion with Katherine Caffrey, City Manager of Des Moines, WA. The conversation focused on how and where that the city and college may consider partnering to leverage resources in support of and to the benefit of the whole community.
• Attended the High College Foundation Board meeting; shared report out from the President’s Office about recent college-related work and activities.
• Attended Educational Services meeting for the Washington Association of Community and Technical College (WACTC) Leadership
• Attended full WACTC Leadership meeting with system-wide chancellors and presidents. Much of the meeting focused on the 2026 “short” 60-day legislative session. Continued support of funding for Running Start has been the primary focus of advocacy for WACTC leadership
• Briefly met with SEIU 1199 NW Multi Training and Education Fund representatives to discuss future funding opportunities for students in health programs at the college; it was also an initial introduction, giving the new role of interim president.
• Highline College’s Title III Strengthening Institutions Project concluded after four of five years, strengthening data capacity, onboarding, advising, professional development, and gateway course supports that continue to benefit students. We thank Jennifer Johnston and her team for their leadership and commitment to the grant objectives. While one federal objective was met, equity gaps remain a key focus. For more information and to view the final report, click this link.

Report submitted by Interim President, Dr. Jamilyn Penn