PCC Counselor, DOrange-Martin, Honored by Senator Carol Liu

Pasadena City College counselor Patricia D’Orange-Martin is being honored by state Sen. Carol Liu as one of five 2013 Women of the Year in District 25.

Each year, the state Senate asks legislators to honor Women of the Year who have made unique and often unsung contributions to enhance the quality of life for others in each of California’s 40 senate districts.

D’Orange-Martin is the founder of the PCC Veterans Resource Center. Her work in student-veteran outreach programs has paved the way for other colleges throughout Southern California.

“I am truly honored to have Senator Liu recognize me. I don’t do this for any recognition, but because it needs to be done and it’s the right thing to do,” D’Orange-Martin said. “I am grateful that PCC has given me the opportunity to help our very deserving veterans.”

D’Orange-Martin is being recognized for her role in pioneering and making significant contributions to the field of education, colleges, and community on veterans’ issues.

She is currently working on SMARTPEN/STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and MATH), a new program to help veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and learning disabilities. Student-veterans act as note takers in the classroom and tech support for STEM faculty using the innovative technology SMARTPENS, and then pen casting notes and class materials online. Not only does this benefit the student-veterans, but all students in the STEM classes.

For more information about the PCC Veterans Resource Center, please call (626) 585-7226.