As we begin the spring quarter, we do so amid deeply troubling events at home and abroad. In a recent public post, the President of the United States wrote, “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will.” Rhetoric that anticipates or normalizes the destruction of a people, their culture, and their history, particularly amid escalating threats of violence against Iran, stands in direct opposition to who we are as an institution and to our commitment to provide educational opportunity while expanding, celebrating, and learning from all human cultures. While this rhetoric has already changed to a “two-week warning” these words still have impact.
We want to be unequivocally clear: this college is home to Iranian faculty, staff, students, and community members. Iran and Iranian culture are part of the human community we value, protect, and learn from. To our Iranian community members, and to all who are affected by this moment: this is your space to learn, to work, and to be. You belong here.
In a related effort to marginalize and erase lived experiences, the U.S. Department of Education has rescinded key Title IX protections for transgender-identified people. While Washington State has continued to provide more proactive and affirming support, this reversal at the federal level represents a deeply troubling retreat from the obligation to protect access, safety, and dignity in educational spaces. Such actions undermine the inclusive purpose of public education and signal whose identities and lives are deemed worthy of protection. At Shoreline we support the rights of our transgender students and staff and will continue to strive to provide an inclusive and safe learning and working environment for all.
People often ask, “What can I do when these things happen in my community”? Often, the most meaningful place to start is with simple acts of care; checking in with a colleague, reaching out to a student, or being present for someone who may need support.
One of Shoreline’s greatest strengths is the compassion and humanity of this community. In times marked by violence, uncertainty, and grief, that care matters. Our college is not only a place of learning, but a place where we can also hold space for one another with empathy and understanding.
Should you or someone you know need support, please do not hesitate to connect with the following resources located below.
CAMPUS RESOURCES
Students may access the following services for support:
If you are experiencing distress related to this, please reach out to the Counseling Center for support.
In addition, for emergency counseling, referral, or assistance 24-hours/day and 7-days/week, please call:
King County: Crisis Connections (Crisis Line) | 866-427-4747
Snohomish County: Volunteers of America Care Crisis Response Services (Crisis Line) 800-584-3578
March is recognized in the United States as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. First established by President Ronald Reagan in 1987, this national observance was created to foster inclusion, reduce stigma, and highlight the contributions and potential for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). In this month we would like to recognize the students and staff on campus with I/DD who are contributing to our community.
Intellectual and developmental disabilities is a term used when a person has certain limitations in cognitive functioning and skills which can include social and practical skills. These limitations can present in a variety of ways, from understanding basic tasks, self-care, language, and social interactions. Some examples of conditions that may cause intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are Down syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, head injuries, or stroke. I/DD is more common than many people realize. Approximately 6.5 million people in the United States have an intellectual disability and between 1 and 3% of the population globally.
Colleges and universities across the United States have been expanding their opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities in the last 50 years. Today, more than 300 colleges and universities in the United States offer inclusive postsecondary programs designed specifically to support these students. However, access both financially and physically to these programs can be limited. It is important to recognize that students with I/DD can be successful members of mainstream programs. Especially when provided accommodation assistance. Students with I/DD often thrive when environments provide appropriate accommodations such as additional time for assignments or exams, preferential seating to minimize distractions, and audio materials. Some programs can also be utilized to assist students in breaking complex instructions into step-by-step guides. College campuses play a vital role in advancing inclusion. Students, faculty, and staff can support individuals with intellectual disabilities by promoting accessible learning environments, participating in mentorship programs, and challenging stereotypes.
Upon graduation, many students with I/DD will be able to find successful employment. Approximately 34% of working-age adults with I/DD are employed, and the employers who hire individuals with I/DD report that these employees demonstrate reliability, strong work ethic, attention to detail, and dedication to their work. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities contribute unique perspectives and skill sets in the workplace, which benefits everyone. Here are some things organizations, supervisors and colleagues can do to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive in the workplace:
Communicate clearly: Use direct language and provide written summaries of verbal instructions. Many neurodivergent individuals excel when expectations are explicit rather than implied.
Offer flexible accommodations: Small shifts—like noise-canceling headphones, modified lighting, or flexible break schedules—can significantly reduce sensory overwhelm and boost productivity.
Engage in mentorship: Navigating social nuances can be challenging. A dedicated “work buddy” can help bridge the gap, offering a safe space to ask questions about office culture.
Let go of assumptions: Just like everyone else, people with developmental and intellectual disabilities are unique individuals with differing capabilities and strengths. Preconceived ideas about disabilities can lead to undervaluing a person’s ability to contribute to the workplace.
Shoreline offers reasonable accommodations to employees based on their needs. For more information, please email hr@shoreline.edu
People with intellectual disabilities have the potential to succeed in higher education, meaningful careers, and independent living when provided with opportunities and support. Programs that promote inclusion, reasonable accommodations, and community understanding help remove barriers and open doors. As we recognize Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, the community has an opportunity to celebrate the abilities and contributions of people with I/DD and to continue building a more inclusive campus and society for all.
The International Student Leaders and International Education department present Global Showcase 2026! Cultural clubs and student volunteers are invited to host a booth, perform on stage, or join the fashion show in this celebration of cultures. Booths consist of a tri-fold display board that the students can decorate with whatever information/photos they’d like, and we encourage them to have an interactive element as well (e.g. teach a word or phrase in your native language, hand out traditional candy/snacks, play a game/ask trivia questions, etc.).
DATE: March 4, 2026
TIME: 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
PLACE: PUB Main Dining Room
Seeking Volunteers! The ISLs have sign-up forms for students who wish to participate:
Host a booth (if we receive multiple sign-ups from the same culture/country, we will ask the students to work together)
In this thought-provoking keynote, Dante King will explore the systemic nature of anti-Blackness in America, its psychological and sociocultural dimensions, and the ways it continues to shape our communities today.
Drawing on historical research, lived experiences, and contemporary examples, this keynote will challenge participants to confront uncomfortable truths while offering a vision for equity, justice, and collective healing.
DATE: 2/25/2026
TIME: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
PLACE: Main Dining Room (9215) Pagoda Union Building
Join us as we explore restorative practices for healing and navigating conflict with care, supporting your personal well-being and professional resilience in these challenging times.
Dr. E. Jabali Stewart is a leadership coach, youth worker and trained circle keeper. To learn more about his consulting work visit https://wearehuayruro.com
DATE: February 9th, 2026
TIME: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
PLACE: Quiet Dining Room, Room 9208 Pagoda Union Building
The Indian light dinner and movie are free to Shoreline College students, faculty and staff. Maximum capacity: 50 people. Pre-registration is Required. Click here to register.
The movie is open and free to All. Start time: 7:00pm. Maximum capacity: 350
DATE: 1/9/2026
TIME: Dinner at 6:00pm; Movie starts at 7:00pm
PLACE: Theater (1600 Building)
‘English Vinglish’ is a warm and funny movie about a middle-aged Indian woman who comes to the United States and learns English to gain confidence.
The film shows how learning a new language can change someone’s life and help them feel respected and understood.
This event is co-sponsored by the International Education department and the Indian Consulate, Seattle office.
The yəhaw̓ Center for Student Empowerment is hosting Trans Day of Remembrance commuity art display from Nov 10th to Nov 20th. Trans Day of Remembrance (Nov 20th) is a nationally recognized day to mourn transgender people lost to violence.
We will have an opening talking circle on Nov 10th at 12 pm in Rm 9114 to launch the display. On Nov 20th we will host a second talking circle at 2 pm in Rm 9114 to close the display.
Throughout the week, community members, students, and staff are encouraged to visit or contribute art, flowers and words of encouragement to the display.
