News and Stories
We’re making headlines at Bellevue College. Take a look at the latest events, innovations, and student achievements detailed in our news and stories. From alumni profiles to institutional success, we are proud of the stories that make Bellevue College the region's college of choice.

College Breaks Ground to Expand Space for Arts, Student Innovation
Bellevue College broke ground on a new arts building on May 15, embarking on the expansion of its total building footprint to more than 1 million square feet on a 100-acre campus. The new building will pave the way for an improved, modern student experience that supports innovation, creativity, and cross-disciplinary education.
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Finding the Path to a Successful Second Act
Adam Brehm found an exit strategy, just not one that he would recommend to anyone else. After working in construction for almost 20 years, he and his body were starting to feel the effects. A seemingly inconsequential fall on a job site ended up leading to five knee surgeries and a surgeon who confirmed what…

Neurodiversity Navigators Program Educates the Eastside, and Beyond
Now in its fourth year, the Autistics Present Symposium was held Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Bellevue College campus. This year’s symposium focused on autistic youth, with seven speakers aged 13 through 22, an autistic youth Mistress of Ceremonies and an autistic youth closing speaker. The idea of holding a…

From the Classroom to the United Nations
Last spring in the General Assembly Hall of the United Nations, Bellevue College (BC) student Latasha Palmer addressed 5,000 student delegates on the importance of U.N. Sustainable Development Goal 4, which is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. The experience itself was a learning opportunity for Palmer,…

Inaugural BC Athletics Hall of Fame to install 13 members
Friends and fans of the intercollegiate athletic programs may now help celebrate these former BC athletes at the inaugural BC Athletic Hall of Fame event on Oct. 10 at the Red Lion Hotel, Bellevue. The induction ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. Dinner will be served. Cost to attend is $70.

Kendama Champs Headline Fall Japanese Festival at BC
With every school year, there are always new trends. New styles, new activities, new events. And on the whole, many students leave said trends behind, but sometimes a trend endures, and as is the case of twin brothers, Nick and Zack Gallagher, that trend might just shape your life. In 2012, the Gallagher brothers were…

BC Students, Faculty and Staff Walkout for Climate Justice
Bellevue College students, faculty and staff walked out of their classrooms and offices in a Walkout for Climate Justice Sept. 25, joining people the world over in sounding the alarm on rapidly escalating climate change and calling on leaders to enact desperately needed change. Immediately following the walkout, the BC community hosted an open session…

Francis legacy transcends wins and losses
Despite more than 500 victories and 15 seasons of unparalleled success on the softball diamond, Leah Francis looks back on her coaching career and sees friends, lifelong relationships and the personal growth of her players.

BC Nursing Faculty Member Receives Statewide Teaching Award
In May, The Washington State Association of College Trustees (ACT) awarded Teaessa Chism the 2019 ACT Faculty Member Award. Chism, a Bellevue College (BC) senior associate pediatric nursing faculty member, has served BC since 2009 and received tenure in 2012. The annual award recognizes faculty, staff and organizations for their dedication to Washington’s 34 community…

BC Alum’s App Creates Connection
Amin Shaykho is not someone who sits idly by when he sees an unmet need or opportunity. The CEO and co-founder of the local service app, Kadama, is brimming with ideas and hopes for the future. Indeed, at the same time as Shaykho graduated with his associate degree from Bellevue College in 2016, he also…

Dana Buckingham Named General Manager for KBCS-FM
Bellevue College (BC) has named Dana Buckingham the new general manager for KBCS 91.3 FM. Buckingham steps into the role vacated by Steve Ramsey who retired in June after dedicating 18 years to the college’s station. Buckingham will oversee KBCS’ operations and activities, and he brings a broad experience and skill set in college radio…