Dr. Dianne Van Hook

At this month’s Valley Industry Association keynote luncheon, attendees will get an overview of how strong an impact College of the Canyons has on the Santa Clarita Valley’s economic climate. The luncheon is scheduled for 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, March 16, at Valencia Country Club.

Attendees should also take note that, for March only, the luncheon is scheduled for a Wednesday rather than the typical third Tuesday of the month. The normal schedule will resume in April.

Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook, chancellor of the 46-year-old college, will discuss COC’s role in shaping the community and its growth. With more than 20,000 students enrolled every semester, the school plays a vital role in the community. COC’s more than 200,000 alumni have a reported annual economic impact of nearly $230 million. Last year alone, more than 5,000 employees at area companies received training through COC programs.

During her “State of the College” presentation at the VIA luncheon, Van Hook will take stock of the school’s current role in the SCV and provide a preview of what’s ahead for the college, which is also one of the community’s largest employers.

From its beginnings as a small community college, COC has grown to become an excellent educational resource, with 83 majors and 67 certificate programs at two campuses, plus a variety of degree and certificate offerings at its University Center on the Valencia campus. The school provides a number of training opportunities for businesses, and its economic development division annually generates nearly $4 million to fund customized training for more than 800 companies.

“College of the Canyons really has developed into a fantastic asset for our community. Dr. Van Hook has been a very dynamic and charismatic leader, and I believe VIA members can look forward to hearing about great things for the future of the college,” said VIA CEO and President Kathy Norris. “Many of our members have experienced the benefits that COC offers them, and hopefully this luncheon will generate interest among those businesses that haven’t yet taken advantage of COC’s programs.”

The luncheon will also include a spotlight presentation by LBW Insurance & Financial Services.

Reservations are required for the luncheon. Members who reserve by March 10 pay $45. After March 10, the cost is $50 if seats are still available. The cost for non-members is $65. “No shows” or cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance will be billed. There is a $10 surcharge for attendees without a reservation. The Valencia Country Club is located at 27330 N. Tourney Road. The luncheon is sponsored by the City of Santa Clarita, LBW Insurance & Financial Services, UCLA Health, Poole and Shaffery, Mellady Direct Marketing, SCVTV, KHTS AM-1220 and Signal Multimedia. Reservations can be made by visiting www.VIA.org/Calendar or calling (661) 294-8088.