David Carlander
Kristel Minnock
Candidate's Reason for Running for Office and Qualifications: I’ve taught at seven different campuses since I began teaching in 2008, and in that time I don’t ever recall having the opportunity to have formal representation at English Department meetings. The fact this unique invitation exists—and was approved unanimously—says a great deal about the culture of our department here at VC. Being an adjunct (or “freeway flyer,” a painfully accurate term, don’t you think?) means we’re often shuttling between one gig and the next, and for logistical reasons if nothing else, sometimes we just can’t make it to those department meetings. I do my best to attend English Department meetings each month, but I’m lucky that my schedule has afforded me the time to do so. During those meetings I’ve always felt very welcome, encouraged to speak, and part of the larger ongoing conversation about what we do to best serve our students and help one another. I would be very glad and proud to share the responsibility of representing my colleagues, if that’s what my colleagues want. Every adjunct faculty member deserves to have his or her voice heard, and all adjunct faculty members should feel like they can be involved in department affairs. I want to actively contribute towards making that happen in whatever ways I can. I thank you for reading, and for your consideration.
Respectfully,
David Carlander
VC Adjunct Faculty Member since 2012
College Activities: I have been teaching at Ventura College for fourteen years. In that time, I have taught every level of composition class from English 4 (back then it was called English 190) to English V01B. When I first started teaching here, I was at the Santa Paula campus. I have volunteered in the reading and writing center, working with students one on one to improve their essays. I also volunteered as a judge for VC Voices several times, and in 2007-2008 I was editor of VC Voices. Outside of the college, I specialize in juggling duties as a fierce advocate for a special needs son and being a totally awesome wife.
Candidate's Reason for Running for Office and Qualifications: From the beginning of my teaching career here, I have been very involved in the department, often attending meetings and department and division functions. Communication between all faculty is vital to the department, and I understand the importance of creating more communication between full-time and part-time instructors. I understand how difficult it can be for many of the part-time faculty to attend meetings, and I want to make sure that they stay informed as well as make sure that their voices are heard. I have a lot of experience working on committees, as well as sitting in big rooms with many people trying to make important decisions about education (I have suffered through many an IEP). My main goals as a representative would be to make sure that part-time faculty have a strong voice and a capable advocate as well as keep everyone informed about what issues and decisions will affect them.
