Federal Funding and Regulatory Updates

Dear Colleagues,

It feels like I’ve been sending variations of this message more often than anyone would like lately, but here we are again.

As you may have seen in the news, Congress is once again facing a funding deadline, and there is a real possibility of a federal government shutdown if an agreement is not reached. While a shutdown has not yet occurred, it is likely to occur over the weekend and into next week.

First and most importantly: all Olympic College employees should continue reporting to work and carrying out their normal duties unless you are specifically notified otherwise.  As state and college employees, you will continue to receive your regular pay for all hours worked, even if your position is funded in whole or in part by federal dollars.

As with the last occurrence, it could create financial pressures for the College depending on its duration and scope. The college President, Cabinet, and I are closely monitoring the situation and planning proactively so that we are prepared to respond thoughtfully and responsibly if needed.  We have become increasingly efficient at responding to these situations.

If circumstances require action, here is what you can expect:

• Employees whose positions may be affected would be notified directly.

• Any impacted employee would receive at least 30 days’ advance notice before a change takes effect.

• While some impacts are possible if a shutdown is prolonged, we do not anticipate the closure or elimination of any academic or non-academic programs at this time.

I recognize that repeated uncertainty is frustrating and can be stressful. Our commitment remains the same, to communicate clearly, avoid unnecessary disruption, and treat employees with fairness and respect throughout this process.

We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, please direct questions to your supervisor or your Vice President or Chief Officer.

Thank you, as always, for your professionalism, patience, and continued dedication to our students and to each other.

Regards,

Joshua Masters (he/him), MLS, SPHR

Chief Operating Officer​

Dear Colleagues,

I am writing today for two important reasons. First, the federal government has now officially entered a shutdown, which directly affects our access to federal funds. Second, my office and other offices have already received questions from employees asking whether they should continue to work. The answer is yes — all employees are expected to continue in their normal assignments at this time.

We also want to clarify one important point: while the news has reported that some federal employees will be required to work without pay during the shutdown, that is not the case for any employee of Olympic College. As state and college employees — even if your position is funded by federal dollars — you will continue to receive your pay as normal for all hours worked.

As we shared in our earlier message, the shutdown creates immediate financial challenges for the College. The President, Cabinet, and I are working closely to review our situation and identify the necessary reductions to ensure we remain stable and continue serving our students.

Here is what you can expect:

• Employees whose positions are affected will be notified directly within the next two weeks.
• Anyone impacted will receive at least 30 days’ advance notice before any change takes effect.
• While a number of positions are likely to be affected, at this time we do not anticipate the closure or elimination of any academic or non-academic programs.

We know this news is difficult and that uncertainty can be stressful. Please know that our priority is to minimize disruption wherever possible, to treat employees with fairness and respect, and to communicate promptly as decisions are made.

We will continue to provide updates as the situation develops. In the meantime, please direct any questions to your supervisor or the Human Resources team.

Thank you for your patience, professionalism, and commitment to our students and to each other during this challenging time.

Regards,

Joshua Masters (he/him), MLS, SPHR
Chief Operating Officer​

Dear Colleagues,

I want to provide you with an important update regarding federal funding. Recently, Olympic College completed and submitted the required assurances for the Perkins grant, ensuring we remain eligible for this critical source of support for workforce, career, and technical education programs. While this addressed one challenge, another has quickly emerged.

As you may be aware, the Federal Government is facing the possibility of a shutdown beginning October 1. If this occurs, we would not be able to access a substantial amount of federal funding during the shutdown period. This would affect not only Perkins funds, but also other federally supported programs. We are hearing from federal officials that there may be no federal employees available to manage these funds, and no possibility of manual overrides or exceptions. In addition, it has been implied that when the government reopens, colleges and other recipients may not be reimbursed for expenses incurred during the shutdown that would otherwise have been covered by federal funds.

For Olympic College, this would mean losing access to approximately $500,000 to $1,000,000 in federal funds, depending on the length of the shutdown. Like other colleges across the nation, we are impacted by these external circumstances, which are driven by federal processes outside of our control.

The information regarding the lack of manual overrides and the likelihood of no reimbursement is new, and we are actively evaluating what actions may be immediately necessary. While this situation will likely result in reductions to programs and/or positions across the College, no specific decisions have been made at this time. As we determine the steps that will be required, we will communicate directly with impacted employees and programs first, and then share information with the broader College community shortly after.

I, along with the President, Cabinet, and other College leaders, fully understand that this news is difficult — and even more so because we do not yet have decisions to share. We are choosing to communicate now because we are committed to being transparent throughout this situation, even when the path forward is still being shaped.

Please be assured that any decisions will be made carefully and thoughtfully, with a strong commitment to supporting our students, serving our community, and valuing the contributions of our employees.

Thank you for your continued dedication and resilience as we work through these challenges together.

Regards,

Joshua Masters (he/him), MLS, SPHR
Chief Operating Officer​

Dear Campus Community,

I want to provide you with an important update regarding recent federal guidance and how it affects Olympic College.

On July 29, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a memorandum to all entities that receive federal funding regarding the interpretation of federal nondiscrimination laws. While the guidance is not legally binding, it does provide insight into how the current administration is interpreting certain aspects of these laws, which differs in some respects from prior federal interpretations.

For community and technical colleges in Washington, this guidance has a direct impact on Perkins grant funding. To receive Perkins funds, both the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and individual colleges must certify compliance with federal law. At this time, SBCTC has not yet completed that certification, and therefore no community college in Washington has received Perkins funding for the current year.

The certification language first appearing with Perkins is also now showing up in certifications for other federal funding sources. For Olympic College, these other funding streams could total several million dollars. Because the certifications are signed by an individual on behalf of the College, and because federal law provides for significant penalties under statutes such as the False Claims Act, there is both an institutional and personal risk component if certifications are signed in a manner later found to be inconsistent with federal requirements. This is why the College cannot simply “sign now and work out details later” — each certification must be reviewed carefully to ensure accuracy and compliance.

In the meantime, Olympic College has been covering all position-related expenses normally funded by Perkins with local funds. Other Perkins-funded operating expenses, however, are currently paused. If federal funding is not ultimately released, the College could face an annual shortfall of approximately $500,000 in Perkins funding, in addition to risks to other federal revenue streams.

Because of this uncertainty, we have decided to implement precautionary measures to help protect the College’s financial stability. Effective immediately:

• A soft hiring freeze is in place. This applies to all budgeted positions. When a position becomes vacant, it will not be automatically refilled. Instead, each vacancy will be reviewed individually by the Executive Team to determine whether it is essential to refill at this time.
• Vice Presidents and Chief Officers have been directed to limit discretionary travel and related expenses. This is not a prohibition on travel, but travel authorizations will be more closely scrutinized before approval.

Please note:

• Olympic College remains confident that our current programs and practices are compliant with federal law.
• The new federal memo does not change the law but does signal shifts in how the administration may apply it.
• Interim President Joan Hanten, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Shawn Best, myself, and the Executive Team are working closely with SBCTC, the Washington Attorney General’s Office, and other partners to fully understand the implications and the breadth of potential impacts.
• We will continue to monitor developments closely and keep the campus community updated as we learn more, or if additional precautionary measures may be necessary.

We recognize that these developments may create uncertainty, and we will continue to communicate as more information becomes available. Thank you for your patience and for your ongoing commitment to serving our students.

Dear Campus Community,

I want to provide you with an important update regarding recent federal guidance and how it affects Olympic College.

On July 29, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a memorandum to all entities that receive federal funding regarding the interpretation of federal nondiscrimination laws. While the guidance is not legally binding, it does provide insight into how the current administration is interpreting certain aspects of these laws, which differs in some respects from prior federal interpretations.

For community and technical colleges in Washington, this guidance has a direct impact on Perkins grant funding. To receive Perkins funds, both the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and individual colleges must certify compliance with federal law. At this time, SBCTC has not yet completed that certification, and therefore no community college in Washington has received Perkins funding for the current year.

The certification language first appearing with Perkins is also now showing up in certifications for other federal funding sources. For Olympic College, these other funding streams could total several million dollars. Because the certifications are signed by an individual on behalf of the College, and because federal law provides for significant penalties under statutes such as the False Claims Act, there is both an institutional and personal risk component if certifications are signed in a manner later found to be inconsistent with federal requirements. This is why the College cannot simply “sign now and work out details later” — each certification must be reviewed carefully to ensure accuracy and compliance.

In the meantime, Olympic College has been covering all position-related expenses normally funded by Perkins with local funds. Other Perkins-funded operating expenses, however, are currently paused. If federal funding is not ultimately released, the College could face an annual shortfall of approximately $500,000 in Perkins funding, in addition to risks to other federal revenue streams.

Because of this uncertainty, we have decided to implement precautionary measures to help protect the College’s financial stability. Effective immediately:

• A soft hiring freeze is in place. This applies to all budgeted positions. When a position becomes vacant, it will not be automatically refilled. Instead, each vacancy will be reviewed individually by the Executive Team to determine whether it is essential to refill at this time.
• Vice Presidents and Chief Officers have been directed to limit discretionary travel and related expenses. This is not a prohibition on travel, but travel authorizations will be more closely scrutinized before approval.

Please note:

• Olympic College remains confident that our current programs and practices are compliant with federal law.
  The new federal memo does not change the law but does signal shifts in how the administration may apply it.
• Interim President Joan Hanten, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Shawn Best, myself, and the Executive Team are working closely with SBCTC, the Washington Attorney General’s Office, and other partners to fully understand the implications and the breadth of potential impacts.
• We will continue to monitor developments closely and keep the campus community updated as we learn more, or if additional precautionary measures may be necessary.

We recognize that these developments may create uncertainty, and we will continue to communicate as more information becomes available. Thank you for your patience and for your ongoing commitment to serving our students.

Dear OC community,

As many of you know, we are closely monitoring all updates related to federal funding received by Olympic College. Please review the last update regarding federal “pass-through” grant funding received by Olympic College here.

The OC Executive Team continues to monitor all relevant updates from State Board of Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) on the status of federal pass-through grants. However, the original date SBCTC provided as the anticipated date of resolution, July 15th, has been extended. As of now, SBCTC has announced that the WorkFirst grant has received notifications of funding through June 30, 2026. Other grants, such as BEdA and Perkins, remain under review and no funding has been released. Please review the decision memorandum regarding the status of BEdA and Perkins funding through September 30, 2025.  

We are committed to providing you all with regular updates as new information becomes available to ensure our community stays informed and feels supported as we navigate these changes. The Executive Team continues to evaluate the long-term impacts of these delays and will continue to provide relevant updates as decisions are made.

We understand that the current state of confusion and uncertainty may be frustrating. We are doing our best to interpret the changing landscape as it evolves and appreciate your patience as we work through these developments.  Thank you for your patience as we navigate this situation together. If there are any further changes, we will keep you informed. Updates will also be posted on our webpage: Federal Funding Updates.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our students, colleagues, and the broader campus community.

Dear OC community,

As many of you know, we are closely monitoring all updates related to federal funding received by Olympic College. We are committed to providing you all with regular updates as new information becomes available to ensure our community stays informed and feels supported as we navigate these changes. With this in mind, we have an update regarding federal “pass-through” grant funding received by Olympic College. Examples of pass-through grant funding include BFET, WorkFirst, Perkins, BEDA, and some smaller grant funding originating on the federal level.

Olympic College, along with other Washington State colleges, is part of a system of colleges supported by the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC). As such, certain federal pass-through funding is processed through SBCTC before it is received by OC. While all colleges in our system have received either the reassurance or notification of federal funding approval for fiscal year 2026 (FY26), SBCTC has not received the final terms and conditions for these grants in FY26. This means the funding has been awarded, but not yet distributed to the colleges. Typically, funding is released with the turnover of the fiscal year, which occurs on July 1 each year. This year, SBCTC has advised they will be “pausing” the release of these allocations until the Attorney General’s office has determined that SBCTC can meet any changes in terms and conditions for these funds. This means that system colleges will most likely not be awarded the allocated funds by July 1. We have been assured that the State Board and Washington Attorney General’s office are working diligently to finalize the terms and conditions for these vital grants.

Due to this delay, Olympic College will locally cover the expenses for all affected grant activities through the month of July to avoid any interruption in service. The State Board has communicated to all colleges that once terms and conditions are approved through the Attorney General’s office, the costs covered by the individual colleges will be reimbursable dating back to July 1.

As of now, the State Board expects to have a substantive update to all SBCTC colleges by July 15. At that time, college leadership will work in close consultation with the State Board, the Attorney General, and other system colleges to determine the next steps.

Not all SBCTC colleges have decided to cover costs associated with these grants, and the strategic decisions made at other colleges may differ from the decision of OC. Please keep these potential differences in mind when interacting with your counterparts at other colleges that may also be experiencing this funding delay.

The State Board has also contacted affected college administrators directly. If you received communication directly from State Board on your impacted grant and you have additional questions or concerns, please contact your unit’s Chief Officer or Vice President.

We understand that the current state of confusion and rapid changes may be frustrating. We are doing our best to interpret the changing landscape as it evolves and appreciate your patience as we work through these developments.  Thank you for your patience as we navigate this situation together.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our students, colleagues, and the broader campus community.

Olympic College Executive Team

The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has rescinded the temporary pause on federal grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs. For now, federal funding processes will resume as normal.

We understand that the current state of confusion and rapid changes may be frustrating. We are doing our best to interpret the changing landscape as it evolves and appreciate your patience as we work through these developments.

While this pause has been lifted, federal funding policies may continue to shift. We are closely monitoring any further changes and will provide updates as we learn more. We will continue to share updates on this blog page as new information becomes available.

Thank you for your patience as we navigate this situation together. If there are any further changes, we will keep you informed.

To: Olympic College Students and Employees,

On January 27, 2025, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a memorandum requiring a temporary pause on federal grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs to allow for a comprehensive review of these programs.

The federal funding pause does not apply to student loans and Pell Grants, as confirmed by the U.S. Department of Education. We do not believe this will impact student financial aid or other direct support programs at this time.

This pause, however, is likely to have some impact on the college, and we are currently evaluating what this means for our programs, operations, and community. Our leadership team is actively monitoring developments and working with the Washington State Board for Community & Technical Colleges and other relevant organizations to better understand the implications.

We understand this directive may raise questions and concerns. As we continue to gather more information, our priority is to keep you informed and provide updates as soon as they become available.

Despite the seeming constant change implemented by the new presidential administration, please know Olympic College remains committed to your safety, rights, privacy, and access to education. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this evolving situation.  

We will continue to post these date stamped updates on our Federal Funding Updates Blog Page.

Sincerely,

Joshua Masters (he/him), SPHR
Executive Vice President
Olympic College Executive Team

OC Students, Faculty, and Staff:

The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has rescinded the temporary pause on federal grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs. For now, federal funding processes will resume as normal.  

We understand that the current state of confusion and rapid changes may be frustrating. We are doing our best to interpret the changing landscape as it evolves and appreciate your patience as we work through these developments.  

While this pause has been lifted, federal funding policies may continue to shift. We are closely monitoring any further changes and will provide updates as we learn more. Updates will also be posted on our website: Federal Funding Updates.

Thank you for your patience as we navigate this situation together. If there are any further changes, we will keep you informed.  

Thanks,

Joshua Masters (he/him), SPHR

Executive Vice President
W: 360-475-7305 | C: 360-265-6173

Dear Olympic College Students,

We recognize that recent images and videos of violence involving Immigration & Customs Enforcement and members of the public can be distressing and may affect individuals in different ways. The safety, security, and well-being of our college community is of the utmost importance. It is natural to experience a range of emotions, including sadness, concern, or uncertainty, and we want to acknowledge that impact.

Confidential support services from our staff of licensed counselors is available if you are affected by this news, by contacting OC Counseling Services:

Counseling Services Website

• @email

• 360-475-7547

• Bldg. 4, Rm. 205

We would also like to share practical information with you in the event of immigration or law enforcement activity on our campuses, which is also included in the attached slide deck. In accordance with the College’s Immigrant Rights & Nondiscrimination Policy 200-33. All college employees are directed to notify Chief Operations Officer Josh Masters if immigration enforcement activity occurs on campus. Students who witness such activities may notify a college employee or a Campus Safety & Security Guard, who will then notify Mr. Masters. He, and members of Campus Operations have received specific training on how to respond to these activities. You can also contact the Campus Safety & Security Office directly, at:

Campus Safety & Security Website

• @email

• 360-475-7800

• Bldg. 4, Rm. 100

As standard practice, the College notifies students, faculty and staff any time there is law enforcement activity on our campuses through our Emergency Alert notification system. All students and employees are enrolled in this system, which sends notifications via text and email. You can verify your account settings by visiting our Campus Alerts webpage.

Please take care of yourself and reach out for help when you need support. Olympic College remains committed to fostering a supportive, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all members of our community.

Sincerely,

Olympic College Executive Team

Dear OC Community,

We recognize that the presence of potential immigration enforcement or other law enforcement activity on campus can create uncertainty, concern, and anxiety. Our goal is to provide clear, calm, and practical information about College policy, legal limitations, and what to expect if law enforcement activity occurs on campus.

This communication is not legal advice and is not intended to explain or define any individual’s personal legal rights. Instead, it explains College policy, processes, and expectations, particularly for employees, under applicable law.

Olympic College is a public institution of the State of Washington. As such, the College and its employees are governed by state and federal law. These laws define both what the College is permitted to do and what it is prohibited from doing.

Washington law expressly prohibits state agencies from using state resources—including state employees, facilities, equipment, and information systems—to assist in immigration enforcement activities. As a result, College employees may not participate in, cooperate with, or assist immigration enforcement as part of their role or through the use of College resources.

At the same time, the College cannot prohibit lawful law enforcement activity from occurring, nor can it refuse to comply with valid warrants, court orders, or other lawful legal instruments. When such instruments are presented, they must be reviewed and handled through established, centralized processes.

We have received a variety of questions from both students and employees on this topic.

Olympic College’s policy does not invite, authorize, or grant permission for immigration enforcement activity on campus. However, as a public institution, the College does not have the authority to broadly prohibit lawful law enforcement presence.

Much of our campus consists of public spaces, which are generally open and accessible to the public. Law enforcement officers may lawfully be present in those areas without the College’s express permission. The absence of an invitation or permission does not necessarily mean officers can be immediately removed from campus.

The following information is provided for general awareness only. Students and employees should not engage in arguments or disputes with law enforcement about whether a particular space is public or non-public.

As a general rule, spaces that are not generally accessible to students are treated as non-public spaces.

Examples include:

• Non-public spaces:

  • Human Resources offices beyond the reception area

  • Areas behind service counters (such as behind the Welcome Center counter)

  • Individual offices

• Public spaces:

  • Lobbies and waiting areas

  • Reception desks and service counters

  • Hallways adjacent to offices or classrooms

In some circumstances, law enforcement may have legal authority to access non-public spaces, may proceed under the authority of a warrant or court order, or may decline to wait for College representatives to arrive. Individuals should not attempt to prevent or physically block such access.

Within the legal framework described above, Olympic College follows a neutral approach:

• The College does not assist immigration enforcement activities.

• The College does not interfere with lawful law enforcement activity.

• Requests are handled through established procedures and designated officials in accordance with Washington State law.

This approach ensures legal compliance, consistency, and safety for everyone involved.

If an employee is contacted by immigration authorities or any law enforcement agency requesting access, information, records, or presenting a warrant or court order:

• The employee will politely explain that they are not authorized to handle such requests.

• The employee will direct the officer or agent to the College’s designated official.

Employees may use language such as: “I’m not authorized to respond to this request. Olympic College policy requires that all law enforcement and enforcement-related requests be directed to the Chief Operating Officer.”

Employees are required to contact the Chief Operating Officer themselves, even if the officer or agent also contacts the College directly. Employees should not assume notification has occurred unless they personally make contact.

Employees are not expected to interpret legal documents, physically intervene, restrain anyone, argue with law enforcement, or place themselves or others in danger.

Students and visitors are not required to interact with law enforcement on behalf of the College or to answer questions. Students who have questions or concerns about law enforcement activity on campus are encouraged to contact Student Services or the Office of the Chief Operating Officer.

All law enforcement requests involving access to non-public spaces, records, or information are reviewed centrally by the College’s designated official in coordination with legal counsel, as required by law and College policy.

If you observe law enforcement activity on campus or have concerns:

Josh Masters
Chief Operating Officer
@email
360-475-7305

Employees may also contact Campus Safety and Security (360-475-7800) if immediate assistance or coordination is needed. Campus Safety and Security have the ability to reach the Chief Operating Officer at any time. If Campus Safety is made aware of law enforcement presence on campus, they will contact the Chief Operating Officer.

Olympic College remains committed to supporting our students and employees while fulfilling our responsibilities as a public institution. The procedures described above are intended to ensure lawful, consistent, and safe responses—while respecting the rights and well-being of our community.

Thank you for your care, professionalism, and respect for one another.

Regards,

Josh Masters
Chief Operating Officer
@email
360-475-7305

Faculty, Staff, & Employees:

Over the past several months, I’ve sent a number of updates regarding new federal executive orders that may impact our work at Olympic College. I recognize the frequency of these messages; I’ve now read more executive orders than I ever expected to, including one on showerhead water pressure. At this point, if it comes out of the White House and it’s labeled an “Order,” we’re reading it.

I also want to recognize AJ Askew, Executive Operations Coordinator, for her work behind the scenes. AJ spends a considerable amount of time reviewing executive orders, federal regulations, and agency updates, coordinating with external partners—including the Attorney General’s Office—and flagging those that may impact Olympic College. Her ongoing efforts ensure we remain informed and able to respond quickly.

Below are the latest updates on recent executive actions and related guidance for college operations:

Restoring Equality of Opportunity and Meritocracy
Read the order
This order directs the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to reframe its regulatory priorities around individual merit and responsibility. This order may impact how federal civil rights laws are interpreted; However, it does not change Washington State laws or the role of the Washington State Human Rights Commission, whose authority and protections remain fully in effect. For more information, visit: https://www.hum.wa.gov.

Reforming Accreditation to Strengthen Higher Education
Read the order
This Order directs changes to the federal accreditation process. The majority of this Order is centered around reducing perceived ideological bias related to current accreditation standards tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This directive is presented as an effort to encourage performance outcomes for students and increase alignment with the workforce without reference to race, ethnicity or sex. It also calls for “competition” among accrediting bodies. We are currently reviewing the order to determine any potential implications for Olympic College and our accreditor.

Preparing Americans for High-Paying Skilled Trade Jobs of the Future
Read the order
This order calls for expanded federal efforts to promote skilled trades, apprenticeship programs, and industry-recognized credentials. While it doesn’t introduce immediate changes, we are watching for developments that could impact, or potentially expand, OC's professional-technical programs.

Federal Funding Oversight and Communication Protocols
As federal agencies adjust language and processes associated with grants, contracts, and other funding agreements, employees should be especially alert to any new requirements or unusual communications tied to federal funding.

If you manage federal grants, contracts, or other funding sources, please keep the following in mind:

1. Review all documents carefully. This includes new awards, amendments, and any revised terms and conditions—especially those that reference compliance with executive orders or new federal priorities.

2. Watch for red flags. These may include certification requests, unilateral amendments, delays in payment, updated “click-through” terms for fund access, or requests for additional reporting or surveys—particularly those that go beyond the original agreement.

3. Check before signing. Before signing any documents that may obligate the college, please consult with your supervisor, dean, or vice president/chief officer.

4. Report concerns. If you receive communications that pause, freeze, or revise approved funding, or anything that seems unclear or out of the ordinary, please let your supervisor or executive leader know.

We are closely monitoring these developments to ensure the college remains compliant while staying true to OC's values and mission. Thank you for your continued diligence and partnership in this work.

Thanks,

Joshua Masters (he/him), MLS, SPHR
Executive Vice President
W: 360-475-7305 | C: 360-265-6173

Dear Colleagues,

Today, March 20, 2025, the White House issued an executive order titled Improving Education Outcomes by Empowering Parents, States, and Communities. As with previous executive orders, the full impact of this directive is not immediately clear, and its implementation will likely take time to unfold.

You can read the full order here: White House Executive Order

The order itself is not detailed in what specific changes may ultimately occur that could impact employees or students. Additionally, because parts of the order would require legislative action before being implemented, any significant changes are unlikely to happen quickly. However, as we have seen with other executive actions, circumstances can shift due to legal challenges, implementation delays, or rapid changes in policy guidance. Some aspects of the order may ultimately take effect, while others may be modified or halted.

The President and Executive Team are closely monitoring this situation and maintaining communication with relevant agencies to stay informed. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our students and our mission.

Joshua Masters (he/him), SPHR
Executive Vice President
W: 360-475-7305 | C: 360-265-6173

To all Olympic College Employees,

I am writing to you all to address the rumors in the media surrounding the Department of Education. As of this morning, several national news organizations are reporting that President Trump will issue an Executive Order as early as today directing Secretary McMahon to take actions permissible by law to dismantle the Department of Education. Other sources, including Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, have indicated that President Trump has no intention of signing such an order today.

In the event that an Executive Order is signed today, or in the future, the process will be more involved than a directive from the Executive Branch; The creation and elimination of Federal Departments should require full congressional action.

We understand that any announcement like this causes disruption, fear, and anxiety on campus. As with previous Executive Orders, we will work with the Attorney General’s office as needed to interpret the Executive Order when and if it is issued. As always, we will work to provide prompt and relevant updates to our OC community.

Thank you for your continued commitment to the education of students at OC. 

Joshua Masters (he/him), SPHR
Executive Vice President
W: 360-475-7305 | C: 360-265-6173

Olympic College Faculty, Staff, Administrators:

Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to engage in conversations with many of you—through forums, meetings, and one-on-one discussions. Since stepping into the role of Executive Vice President, I have been more involved in different areas of the college than before, giving me a broader perspective on the work being done across campus. I’ve seen firsthand the dedication and expertise that keeps this institution running, as well as the concerns many of you have about what lies ahead. 

Change can be challenging, especially when it feels like decisions are being made outside of our control. With shifting policies at the federal level and the upcoming transition in college leadership, it is understandable that many of you have questions about how these changes may impact our work and our students. The departure of a college president is always a significant moment, and leadership transitions bring uncertainty. At the same time, we continue to navigate internal challenges—some longstanding, others emerging. These complexities make it all the more important that we focus on what we can control: The work we do every day to serve students, strengthen our operations, and support each other as colleagues. 

During times like these, stability and continuity matter. Over the past year, I have seen positive changes in the culture and interactions across the college. There has been a stronger focus on collaboration, transparency, and thoughtful engagement in the work we do. That progress is worth maintaining, and we need to continue that momentum. Stability is not just about weathering change—it is about reinforcing the things that are working, ensuring that the college remains a place where people want to learn and work. 

I also want to acknowledge the concerns many of you have raised about what the future holds for employees. While I cannot predict the future or the decisions we may face, I remain committed to advocating for our college, our students, and especially our employees. Olympic College remains strong because of the people who serve it, and I will continue to advocate for the stability of this institution, the resources needed to support employees, and the ability to carry out our mission effectively.

As we navigate this period of change and uncertainty, I encourage all of us to stay focused on the work that matters most—supporting students, maintaining strong academic and operational functions, and ensuring that Olympic College remains a place where people want to learn and work. I will continue listening to your concerns and advocating for the needs of this campus as we move forward. 

I also want to remind everyone that the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to provide confidential support and resources for those who may need it. More information about EAP services can be found at https://des.wa.gov/services/employee-assistance-program.

Thank you for your work, your professionalism, and your commitment to Olympic College. 

Thanks,

Joshua Masters (he/him), SPHR
Executive Vice President
W: 360-475-7305 | C: 360-265-6173

All OC Employees,

The U.S. Department of Education has issued a Dear Colleague Letter providing guidance on the Supreme Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard. You can find the letter on the Department of Education Website.

The Executive Team has been, and continues to be, engaged in a detailed and comprehensive assessment of the impacts of federal actions such as these. This includes an analysis of funding sources, regulatory requirements, and areas of the college’s operations that fall under federal control or influence. We are actively reviewing this latest guidance and working with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), the Attorney General’s Office, and other agencies to determine its potential implications for Olympic College.

We recognize that these federal actions have created stress and uncertainty for many in our campus community. Conversations around policies affecting diversity, equity, and inclusion can be deeply personal and have far-reaching implications. We want to acknowledge those concerns and assure you that we are carefully evaluating the situation with a commitment to thoughtful and informed decision-making.

At this time, we are not planning any program or office closures as a result of this guidance. However, our review is ongoing, and we will continue to assess any necessary adjustments to ensure compliance with federal requirements while maintaining our focus on student success.

This week’s scheduled forums will provide an opportunity to acknowledge the new guidance, but we do not anticipate having detailed answers at this time. We will be scheduling a separate forum as soon as possible to provide a more focused discussion.

We appreciate your patience as we work through this information and will share updates as we learn more.

Joshua Masters (he/him), SPHR
Executive Vice President
W: 360-475-7305 | C: 360-265-6173

All OC Employees,

As you may be aware, recent changes to federal laws and executive orders are bringing significant shifts to policies that impact higher education. To ensure we remain informed and responsive, the Executive Team has begun meeting two to three additional times per week, along with setting aside extended weekly meetings. These dedicated meetings allow us to stay updated on evolving changes while also proactively planning for potential future impacts. 

As part of this effort, we are evaluating all programs subject to federal funding or control and developing a roadmap for possible outcomes. This proactive approach will help us anticipate and navigate any required adjustments, ensuring compliance while continuing to serve our students and employees effectively.  

We recognize that large-scale change and uncertainty can be stressful, and we want to assure you that we are working diligently to stay ahead of these developments. We are closely monitoring and assessing the implications in several key areas, including Title IX, athletics, pregnancy-related adjustments and accommodations, DEI programs and initiatives, and many other policies that may be affected. Our goal is to ensure that Olympic College remains compliant while also upholding our commitment to equity, inclusion, and student success.  

The Changing Legal Landscape Forums will be held on Feb. 20 and 21. Please submit your questions using the linked Google form here. Please submit your questions by 8am on Feb. 18, 2025. There will be a Q&A in the forum.  However, we are providing a form for you to submit questions ahead of the forums.  By doing this, it will allow us to tailor the presentation to answer as many of the common questions as we can.   

In-person  

Date: Feb. 20, 2025 
Time: 9am 
Location: Bremerton Campus, Bldg. 7, Rm. 132 (Theater)

Virtual  

Date: Feb. 21, 2025 
Time: 1pm 
Zoom: Meeting ID: 921 5377 2516, Passcode: 552990

Thanks,

Joshua Masters (he/him), SPHR
Executive Vice President
W: 360-475-7305 | C: 360-265-6173

All OC Faculty, Staff, and Administrators:

Recently, the U.S. President issued two Executive Orders: "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity" and "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government." Like many of you, the Executive Team and I are carefully reviewing these orders to understand their potential implications for Olympic College.

As we evaluate these orders, I want to reaffirm a fundamental truth: Our commitment to our students, employees, and to equitable practices was never founded on presidential decrees, and it cannot be undone by them.

At Olympic College, our efforts to create a community rooted in justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion reflect our core values. These principles are woven into the fabric of who we are and how we serve our community—not dictated by external mandates.

It is also important to emphasize that Washington State laws, specifically the Washington Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60), remain controlling for our college. These laws provide critical protections against discrimination based on sex, gender, and gender expression, which includes our employees and students who identify as a gender other than the one assigned at birth. At Olympic College, all employees are expected to adhere to these laws in their interactions with each other, with the college, and with our students in their professional capacity.

Additionally, I want to address our ongoing search for a Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This recruitment has recently closed, and I am pleased to share that we have received many applications. Our Chief Human Resources Officer, Cathy Anderson, is now beginning the process of convening the screening committee. While this process continues to move forward, we will carefully consider any developments that may impact this work and will adapt as necessary.

That said, I want to be transparent—these Executive Orders may bring challenges, and I cannot predict with certainty how the external landscape may shift due to these or potential future actions. But I can promise this: We will remain steadfast in continuing our DEI work in every way we can, within the framework of Washington State law and our institutional values.

Thank you for your continued dedication to fostering an environment where all students and employees can thrive. I will provide updates as we learn more about how these orders, or potential future developments, may affect us.

Thanks,

Joshua Masters (he/him), SPHR
Executive Vice President
W: 360-475-7305 | C: 360-265-6173

Dear Olympic College Community,

We are writing to inform you of the new Immigrant Rights and Non-Discrimination Policy at Olympic College. This policy is designed to align with current regulations while ensuring that our campus remains a safe and supportive environment for all members of our community. 

This policy was reviewed and recommended by OC’s Governance Coordinating Council and approved by President Cavalluzzi last week. The policy is attached hereto and is expected to be uploaded to the Olympic College website in the coming days. This policy is applicable to all Olympic College campuses effectively immediately; All Olympic College community members are encouraged to review at their earliest convenience. This policy ensures Olympic College remains in compliance with current Washington State regulations, including the Keep Washington Working Act, while maintaining campuses that are accessible to all residents, regardless of immigration or citizenship status.

Olympic College students, employees, and volunteers are prohibited from the participation in immigration enforcement activities on OC campuses or within their role as a representative of Olympic College, this includes the utilization of campus resources to aid in immigration enforcement.

In accordance with the Keep Washington Working Act, it is prohibited for any Washington state “agency funds, facilities, property, equipment, or personnel to investigate, enforce, cooperate with, or assist in the investigation or enforcement of any federal registration or surveillance programs or any other laws, rules, or policies that target Washington residents solely on the basis of race, religion, immigration, or citizenship status, or national or ethnic origin.” RCW 43.17.425(1).  Limitations on access may also be necessary to protect private or confidential information and for purposes of compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

All federal immigration authorities’ activities, surveillance, or presence on campus are presumed to be enforcement activities.

If confronted with immigration enforcement requests of any kind, the OC student, employee, or volunteer should direct enforcement officers and requests to OC’s designee. OC’s designee is the Executive Vice President, Josh Masters. The designee will review and verify all immigration related requests, orders, or warrants.

If you are unable to reach the office of the Executive Vice President, please direct the request to Campus Security.

Resources and support service information will be available and distributed to OC students and guardians on an annual basis (at minimum).

We understand there may be questions about this policy, and we are committed to providing clear information and support. To this end, campus wide forums are being scheduled to address any questions or concerns with this policy. If you have immediate concerns or questions, please reach out to the office of the Executive Vice President utilizing the contact information below:

Josh Masters, Executive Vice President, @email, 360-475-7305

AJ Askew, Executive Operations Coordinator, @email, 360-552-0993 

Our priority remains the well-being and safety of every student and staff member. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we appreciate your cooperation in ensuring a respectful and lawful campus environment.

Thanks,

Joshua Masters (he/him), SPHR
Executive Vice President
W: 360-475-7305 | C: 360-265-6173