Updates from Around the State: Fall 2023 Regional Meetings
By Donna Quach
The Washington Passport Network launched the new academic year with a series of in-person Regional Passport Network meetings. While these regional groups have had great meetings virtually, the benefits of face-to-face meetings include opportunities for professional networking and increased participation and engagement.
Region 2
The first regional meeting took place in Yakima at Perry Technical Institute. It marked a significant milestone for the South Central Regional Passport Network, as it was the first in-person reunion since 2019. The meeting consisted of networking and an enriching tour of the Perry Technical Institute’s campus. Group members discussed ideas for collaborative projects for the upcoming year. The group is planning for an in-person training for providers later this year.
Region 5
The Pierce Kitsap Regional Passport Network also came together in person at the University of Washington Tacoma. We heard from the meeting host and Passport program Designated Support Staff Meraf Geberehiwot, on student engagement efforts in their Champions program. There was a diverse attendance bringing together partners from community-based organizations, social workers, school district staff, and local colleges. The meeting wrapped up with excitement for another in-person meeting in the spring.
Region 1
The Eastern Regional Passport Network met in September at Spokane Falls Community College, where they enjoyed an informative campus tour led by a former student. Small group connections were formed, and discussions about a potential in-person student event in the upcoming spring were initiated.
Region 3
In addition, the Northwest Regional Passport Group met in person in October at Skagit Valley College in Mount Vernon. Attendees engaged in small groups and discussed collaboration opportunities. They also began planning the fourth annual student-facing college and career resource fair.
Special thank you to our partner campuses for hosting us. We’d like to acknowledge the following WPN partners for making these enriching in-person meetings possible: Patricia Acevedo and Jennifer Snellink of Perry Technical Institute, Meraf Geberehiwot of University of Washington Tacoma, Kathy Albin Spokane Falls Community College, Brian Hanchett of Skagit Valley College and Suni Eisenberg of College Success. Your partnership is greatly valued and appreciated!
