Former Golden West College President Honored with Tree that Reflects Personality                The award-winning landscape at Golden West College got a little more beautiful this fall with the addition of a gingko tree honoring former president Dr. Kenneth D. Yglesias. Yglesias was honored with an addition to the campus’ already beautiful landscape. A gingko tree was planted in his honor directly outside of the office of the president in the college’s Courtyard of Honor. CONTACT: Erin Cohn District Director, Public Affairs (714) 438-4605 October 14, 2004 NEWS         The award-winning landscape at Golden West College got a little more beautiful this fall with the addition of a gingko tree honoring former president Dr. Kenneth D. Yglesias. Yglesias was honored with an addition to the campus’ already beautiful landscape. A gingko tree was planted in his honor directly outside of the office of the president in the college’s Courtyard of Honor. “We had to do something special to honor his leadership and vision during his eight years as the president,” Wes Bryan, GWC’s vice president of instruction told a crowd at a tree dedication ceremony September 23. “Ken has made this a nice place to be for both students and staff. We are proud and fortunate that he is now our Chancellor. It is more than fitting that we are dedicating this tree in this place to this leader.” Why a gingko tree? Bryan left that up to the crowd to determine, but did offer a few telling facts about the tree, known for its medicinal qualities. “The gingko is the sole living link between the lower and higher plants, between ferns and conifers. Because of its unique position, botanists found it difficult to classify the gingko,” Bryan said. “It prefers full sun…and moist, deep, well-drained soils, but is very adaptable, so it also grows in poor soils. It roots deeply. The ginkgo tree is particularly resistant to insect pests and to fungal, vital and bacterial diseases, as well as pollution, fire and even radiation.” “When you pass this tree, think of Ken, and, if you’re inclined, chew on its leaves!” Bryan concluded. “I’m a little overwhelmed and very thankful for this tribute,” said Yglesias. “It was my honor to have served this college and this community during my tenure as president.” Yglesias took over as chancellor of the Coast Community College District in July. The search for a new president for Golden West College is underway and is expected to be completed in January 2005. ### The Coast Community College District is the seventh largest community college district in the nation in credit enrollment, serving more than 60,000 students each semester. The district is comprised of Coastline Community College headquartered in Fountain Valley, Golden West College in Huntington Beach, Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, and KOCE-TV, the district’s public broadcasting station.