Back to school recap: Thrive Center, construction, wasps and security escorts

Wasps found throughout campus

By Lizett Gallos

Students may notice active wasp nests around campus, such as around the Johnson Student Center. “[These types of] wasps are a normal and natural part of Southern California,” said biology professor Kimo Morris. According to Morris, the wasps tend to keep to themselves but may become defensive if anything wanders too close to their nests. Students can use the work order system located on the Maintenance and Operations page of the school’s website to report these nests.

Both active and inactive wasp nests have been discovered around the Johnson Student Center, and Fine Arts Building. Photo courtesy of Kimo Morris

Thrive Center offers resources to students

By Cheryl Bridges

The Thrive Center provides essential needs for all enrolled SAC students, including international and undocumented students. The Thrive Food Pantry is free, located in Village Room 206 (just make sure to bring your student ID). Student staff Melanie Guereca suggests that students fill out the Basic Needs form to apply for hygiene support, housing and cash aid. For details on all of the Thrive Centers’ services, visit https://sac.edu/StudentServices/thrivecenter.

The Thrive Center’s Career Closet includes free used professional clothes for students. Photo by Kathy Rafferty / el Don News.

Construction for new campus entrance

By Nicholas Escobedo

Projected to finish by February 2026, the construction project where the Russell Hall formerly stood will become a new campus entrance. Construction is done during weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., emitting loud noises from the tools and equipment. While the noise and vibration from the construction doesn’t bother some, it can be detrimental for those students who are in the buildings directly next to the construction site, such as the Technical Arts and Planetarium buildings.

The sounds of construction may irritate students taking classes nearby. Photo by Jessica Avila / el Don News.

Campus Safety escorts

By Jarely Olmos

If you don’t feel comfortable walking back to your car alone, District Safety and Security provides escorts for students to their vehicles. Assistance is received upon request through the non-emergency number: (714)-564-6330. Sgt. Bob Witteman suggests that students walk in groups and park as closely as possible to their classes in the evening.