Highlighting careers within STEM areas was the goal of the day Sept. 17 in Sack Hall during the STEM Career Talks. Sixteen professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) met virtually with York College students to showcase their careers.  

"Students often come into college knowing they like math or science, without really understanding the breadth of the career options," said Dr. Stacie Turnbull, assistant professor of agribusiness and STEM club advisor. "We wanted to help students gain an understanding of what careers are out there, as well as gain valuable advice from those in the field."

York College offers many experiences to its students, through education and co-curricular activities. The opportunities for students to develop talents and pursue passions are significant in fulfilling the mission. As plans were being made for the fall semester, the question continued to rise, “How can YC offer the York College experience in a time of social distancing and face coverings?”

In a normal year, the York College music and theatre departments would be making preparations for in-person choir performances and tours, several main-stage theatre shows, and the ever beloved Cocoa and Carols. This year, although there have been several obstacles to overcome, the show must go on. The method and delivery may look different but YC will continue to create and share art. ​

York College set a record enrollment with 640 students registered for the fall semester. This marks the second straight semester for the college to hit a new high number despite earlier concerns that the Coronavirus Pandemic could cause a decrease in numbers.

In response to the news, President Sam Smith stated, “Along with celebrating a new record, we are recognizing the untiring efforts on campus that made it possible. Since I arrived in July, it has been apparent that York College has a team in place who are committed to the success of every student who enrolls. People appreciate and respond to that level of attention.”

​Three new members have joined the York College board of trustees, according to Dr. Wayne White, board chair from Dallas, Texas. YC alumni, Dr. C. Shawn Bengtson ’80 of Bellevue, Neb., Dr. Scott Abraham ’99 of Kansas City, Kan., and Dr. Aaron Fletcher ’02 of Woodland Park, Colo., became the college’s newest trustees this summer.
​
“Each of these three has demonstrated their loyalty for the college and its mission,” White said.  “They are vocal about good memories of their personal York experiences; they have been consistently generous in their financial support, and they all represent the college in an exemplary way professionally and spiritually.  I am thankful for the talents and experiences these three alumni bring to the board.”

​York College will start the fall semester on a heightened alert to equip and inform students about COVID-19 suppression efforts on campus. As the college prepares for the largest enrollment in school history, administrators and faculty are preparing for an array of online, hybrid and in-person instruction.

In the midst of summer jobs and internships, members of the York College Professional Business Leaders (PBL) chapter put their business skills to the test while competing in the National Leadership Conference. Fourteen PBL members, familiar with hard work and diligence, participated in the virtual competition in late June. 
​
The extra work paid off with two national runner-up finishes and top-ten honors for six YC students in all. Second place honors went to Taylor O’Brien in business presentation and Diego Korol in business sustainability. Rounding out YC chapter members who placed in the top ten were Emily Eggar, Abbey Draper, Adriana Fajardo and Moriah Toledo.