NVC President Dr. Amy Bosley was honored with the 2024 YMCA Youth Development Volunteer Award! She earned this award for being a driving force behind youth development in San Antonio, thanks to her vision and leadership. Dr. Bosley is recognized for engaging with local organizations to build a better future for all and for being an inspiring role model. Her passion for students, education, and community is making a significant impact. As the YMCA shared, “Her holistic approach to education and student support aligns seamlessly with the YMCA’s mission.” “I am deeply honored to receive the YMCA Youth Development Volunteer Award,” said Dr. Bosley. “The YMCA’s mission and our work at Vista share a common purpose - empowering young people with the skills, confidence, and support they need to thrive. This recognition is a testament to the incredible partnerships in San Antonio that are opening doors of opportunity and building a brighter future for our community.”

Northwest Vista College (NVC) students can gain a competitive edge in their academic and professional pursuits through AlamoEXPERIENCE, which goes beyond traditional transcripts to showcase their full potential. AlamoEXPERIENCE is an online platform that NVC students use to engage in campus life and develop crucial leadership skills. By joining student organizations, participating in volunteer initiatives, and taking on leadership roles, students can enrich their college experience and build a verifiable "Experience Transcript." "AlamoEXPERIENCE is a tremendous advantage for our students," NVC Career and Experiential Learning Director Doreen Abrams said. "It allows them to document their valuable co-curricular and extracurricular activities, including professional development in leadership, which are often overlooked but are incredibly important to their growth, job search, and future success." This innovative transcript provides a comprehensive record of a student's involvement outside the classroom, highlighting their leadership, volunteerism, and the diverse skills they've acquired. Unlike a standard academic transcript based solely on grades and courses, the Experience Transcript provides a holistic view of a student's development. The benefits of the Experience Transcript can be far-reaching. NVC students can leverage this document when applying for scholarships, providing concrete evidence of their commitment and initiative. It's also a powerful tool for university and graduate program applications, demonstrating a well-rounded profile beyond academic achievements. And importantly, the Experience Transcript is a significant asset for job seekers, as it indicates marketable skills and real-world experience to potential employers. Northwest Vista College encourages all students to explore the opportunities available through AlamoEXPERIENCE and begin building their personalized Experience Transcript, paving the way for a brighter future.

Northwest Vista College’s Digital Video & Cinema Production (DVCP) team recently hosted a workshop with producer David Sanders, a trainer and industry expert from Los Angeles-based consultancy CG Pro. DVCP Program Coordinator Noelia Santos said the three-day workshop was designed to help NVC instructors integrate new, advanced virtual production techniques into their curriculum. “We are planning to introduce the virtual production workflow gradually into our classes over the coming academic year to help our students learn these cutting-edge tools used in today’s film, gaming, and television industries,” Santos said. “These skills will set them apart in the workforce as they enter the industry.” The growing role of virtual production and the importance of adaptability in this rapidly evolving industry are among the topics Sanders covered. He also explained how emerging technologies are reshaping traditional production pipelines. “His experience helped students understand the real-world expectations and collaborative nature of professional sets blending virtual and live production,” said Santos. NVC students working toward an Associate of Applied Science degree in Digital Video & Cinema Production are trained in all phases of video and cinema production and gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment and software. Students are being prepped to take on jobs such as video editor, cinematographer, producer/director, and more. Santos said currently there is a strong demand for video editors, camera operators, content creators, and virtual production specialists. “With the rise of streaming platforms and digital marketing, skilled professionals in video production are needed across entertainment, corporate, and nonprofit sectors,” she added. The role artificial intelligence (AI) plays in this industry is evident and Santos said AI tools are increasingly being integrated into instruction. NVC students are using AI-assisted editing platforms such as Adobe Premiere Pro that streamline post-production tasks including color correction, transcription, and audio cleanup. Santos explained that these AI tools help students understand how automation can enhance efficiency while still requiring a creative human touch. For students planning to further their education in this field, NVC’s Digital Video & Cinema Production program supports the transfer to a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) degree. In addition, the program maintains partnerships with several local media and production companies. Students can apply for internships through the FLMC 2280 course, which requires instructor approval and a confirmed placement with an industry partner. Whether students choose to enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year institution, Santos wants them to know that persistence and passion are key. “Stay curious and keep learning — this industry evolves quickly,” she said. “Build a strong portfolio, seek mentorship, and take advantage of internships and networking opportunities.” To learn more about the program, visit the NVC Digital Video & Cinema Production webpage. 

Photo (above) courtesy of BSA REU Congratulations to NVC student Tiara Stribling who is one of 10 students in the U.S. selected to participate in the 2025 Boulder Solar Alliance Research Experience for Undergraduates. The National Science Foundation is funding the 10-week program that began in May and runs through early August at the University of Colorado Boulder. Stribling is currently conducting research at the university’s Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics under the mentorship of Dr. Odele Coddington. The research involves analyzing data from the Spectral Irradiance Monitor and focusing on how variations in infrared wavelengths impact solar variability models, which is essential for understanding solar energy’s influence on Earth’s climate. “This experience is giving me deeper insight into solar and space physics and its real-world applications,” said Stribling. “I learned that space research is more than just looking at data and making analyses, it's also how to effectively communicate your research, staying up to date with science policies, and the importance of collaborating with others.” The program includes a “boot camp” in solar physics and professional development seminars. Upon completion of the research, Stribling will present her findings in a formal scientific talk and poster session. As she wraps up her final semester in NVC’s computer science program, Stribling plans to continue her work-study position as a docent at the San Antonio Museum of Science and Technology. She has also applied for the NASA L'SPACE program and intends to pursue an internship at the Southwest Research Institute.

(2003-2006) From 2003 to 2006, Northwest Vista College was a hub of progress and continuous growth, earning national recognition for educational excellence, unveiling memorials, and significantly expanding its community service and online learning opportunities. This vibrant period also saw the introduction of a new era of technology for students, which soon empowered them with essential digital skills. In 2003, NVC was recognized by the Community College Survey of Student Engagement (CCSSE) for demonstrating outstanding performance on CCSSE benchmarks of effective educational practice. As part of that year’s Women’s History Month celebration, the college dedicated the Sojourner Truth memorial, which was recently relocated to the garden outside Manzanillo Hall. Additionally, in 2003, the college experienced a 300% increase in student service-learning projects that benefited the San Antonio community. Service learning, also known as experiential learning, is a way for students to learn by getting hands-on experience helping the community, all while connecting it back to their coursework. The college also increased the number of available distance learning, or internet, courses to 125. One available course in the 2004 NVC Catalog was “Introduction to the Internet,” which covered “how to locate information on the World Wide Web, use email services, and choose an Internet Service Provider.” The Community Health Worker program and Edgewood Family Network partnered in 2005 to hold classes for residents in the Edgewood community. These classes were eventually hosted at the Westside Education & Training Center (WETC), which opened in 2006. WETC, one of five Alamo Colleges Training Centers in the San Antonio community, was created to meet the educational and training needs of residents where they live. Also in 2005, the Academy of Lifelong Learning (ALL) was launched, bringing people ages 50 and older together to exchange ideas, take classes, and learn about topics of interest like origami, cake decorating, and history. As the community around the college began experiencing significant growth, so did NVC enrollment, which reached 9,151 students in Fall 2005. The newly opened Community and Technology Center provided additional space for students and classes. The successful passage of the bond election for Capital Improvement Projects enabled the college to expand its physical infrastructure to make room for the expected enrollment increases. NVC awarded 589 degrees and certificates in 2006. The campus size continued to increase, and new buildings allowed more services and areas for students to gather. For example, according to the NVC Catalog, “...the College Commons is home to the bookstore, the college’s Kinesiology and Multimedia Technology programs, the Office of Student Engagement, the student lounge, banquet facilities, and refreshment vending facilities. The Academic Building is home to classrooms, laboratories, and faculty offices. The Community and Technology Center is home to the Corporate and Community Development Department, classrooms, dance studios, and computer labs. The annex area includes 23,000 square feet of additional classroom space.” At the time, it seemed as if NVC was growing by leaps and bounds, but that was nothing compared to what would happen over the next few years. Watch for next month’s Retrospective: 2007 – 2010. Do you have a 30 Year story to share? Please send a short summary of your story idea to NVC-News@alamo.edu. We will contact you for more information. VISIT NVC'S 30 YEAR CELEBRATION WEBPAGE

The 4th Annual Backpack Event for Grandparents successfully provided essential school supplies to children being raised by grandparents and kinship caregivers across Texas. The event, held on July 26, aimed to ensure that children start the school year with the tools they need to succeed. The giveaway took place at Northwest Vista College and was organized jointly by the Northside Independent School District, the Alamo Colleges District, and Texas Grandparents Raising Grandchildren. This initiative specifically supported Texas grandparents and kinship caregivers who have stepped up to raise children. Caregivers registered in advance to receive a backpack filled with school supplies. The event was made possible through the generous support of various sponsors and community organizations, including Texas State Representative Ray Lopez (District 125), Texas Senator José Menéndez (District 26), City Council member Marina Alderete Gavito (District 7), and AT&T. For any questions regarding eligibility or future events, individuals can contact Geraldlopez16@gmail.com.

When Evelyn Gonzalez first came to Palo Alto College as a student, she never imagined she’d one day lead the same department that welcomed her. Originally from Eagle Pass, Evelyn moved to San Antonio in high school, graduated from McCollum High School, and enrolled at Palo Alto College. It was here on the Southside of San Antonio, in a community she still deeply connects with, where her journey in higher education began. Evelyn started as a work-study student in the Welcome Center, a role that sparked her passion for serving others.  “I thought I’d serve students by becoming a teacher,” she shared, “but I realized I could have just as much impact helping them find their way into college, and through it.” More than ten years later, Evelyn continues to serve students at PAC, now as the Enrollment Team Lead in the Student Success Division. In this role, she wears many hats, providing answers, direction, and support to students navigating not only enrollment and academics, but also life’s broader challenges. “We’re often the first stop for students, and we need to be prepared for anything,” Evelyn explained. “Sometimes students come in asking about their meningitis record, but the real issue is they don’t have internet at home or a way to get to campus. A lot of the barriers our students face are layered, financial, cultural, logistical.” As a first-generation college student, Evelyn understands the uncertainty that comes with entering higher education without a roadmap. Her parents weren’t familiar with college systems, and she had to find her own way. That’s why her favorite part of the job is helping students who think college isn’t an option. “I know what it’s like not to have anyone who can answer your questions,” she said. “So I try to be that person for our students, the one who says, ‘You can do this, and I’ll help you get there.’” That philosophy is woven into how she leads her team. The Welcome Center staff are not just guides, they’re advocates, mentors, and, as Evelyn proudly puts it, “PAC Familia.” “I know it sounds cheesy,” she laughed, “but it’s true. We care deeply about our students because we see ourselves in them. Many of our staff also grew up on the Southside. Even if our stories aren’t the same, we understand the challenges.” In her decade at the Welcome Center, Evelyn has witnessed significant growth, both in student needs and in how her team responds. The department now collaborates more closely with academic programs and other support offices, encouraging open houses and information sessions so students can explore pathways beyond enrollment. Most recently, they launched the Palomino Summer Series, a collection of virtual info sessions covering everything from academic programs to frequently asked questions. It’s a convenient, student-centered way to get the answers they need. Through it all, Evelyn’s motivation remains deeply personal. One of her most meaningful memories came during PACfest’s Unveil event, when a student in a wheelchair approached her and exclaimed, “Hey, there’s someone who looks like me!” Evelyn, who uses a wheelchair herself, was moved by the moment. “That student saw a reflection of themselves, and that mattered,” she said. “I don’t see my disability as something that limits me. It’s part of how I connect differently, and I’m proud of that.” As she looks ahead, Evelyn hopes to continue expanding the department’s reach and resources, removing barriers, creating opportunity, and helping every student feel seen and supported. She leads with empathy, dedication, and a deep belief in the power of education to transform lives. “At Palo Alto College, we say we’re ending poverty through education,” Evelyn said. “That’s not just a mission statement, it’s what we do. And I feel very fortunate to be on the frontlines of that.” Whether you're a first-time student, returning to college, or simply unsure of where to start, Evelyn and the entire Enrollment Team are here to help. From your first question to your first class, the Welcome Center is your home base. The team is available weekdays and the first Saturday of each month. For more information, visit our website alamo.edu/pac/welcome-center, reach out by phone at 210-486-3100, or stop by in-person at the Rio Grande Building, Room 105A. No matter where you're starting from, the Enrollment Team is ready to meet you where you are and help you get where you want to go.    

Northwest Vista College is thrilled to announce that Ashlee D. Stevenson, a seasoned higher education professional with over 16 years of experience, has joined the college as a Dean for Academic Success. Stevenson is a passionate advocate for student success, engagement, and retention, specializing in expanding access and developing strategic programs for diverse student populations, including adult learners, first-generation students, and non-traditional students. "I am thrilled to join the phenomenal NVC community and bring a strong commitment to collaboration, effectiveness, and innovation in higher education,” Stevenson said. “I am genuinely excited and fully committed to serving the distinctive needs of the campus community and contributing to its ongoing growth and success.” A Proven Leader in Higher Education Stevenson’s career is marked by her ability to lead and establish impactful initiatives across various critical areas. She has a strong track record in: Academic program administration Student support services Community partnership development Before joining NVC, Stevenson made significant contributions at UT Health San Antonio, where she served on multiple institutional councils dedicated to student and faculty development, wellness, and campus climate. Her work there included successfully building and overseeing college academic programs that demonstrably improved student outcomes and retention. Notably, she spearheaded innovative initiatives that supported professional identity formation, addressed academic barriers, established new community partnerships, and expanded outreach and recruitment pipelines. Stevenson holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Texas Permian Basin and a bachelor's degree in Multidisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She further strengthens her expertise with advanced certifications in higher education leadership, human resources, and mediation. A Commitment to Opportunity As a proud first-generation college graduate and San Antonio native, Stevenson is deeply committed to expanding educational opportunities and creating environments where all students can thrive. Outside of her professional life, Stevenson enjoys spending time with her husband, Anthony, who is a retired Air Force veteran, and their five children. Her personal interests include cooking, baking, and reading. “I look forward to working closely with faculty, staff, students, and institutional leadership to advance student academic achievement, enhance support services, and develop pathways that empower all students to succeed,” Stevenson added.