News Release

ESCC Campus

Cerro Coso Welcomes New Full-Time Biology Instructor, Dennis Jensen

September 10, 2009

In response to growing demand for nursing and science programs, Cerro Coso Community College has hired full time Biology Instructor, Dennis Jensen, to develop and grow the health science, biology and natural resources programs at the Eastern Sierra College Center in Bishop and Mammoth.  Jensen began his studies at Long Beach City College, earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from San Diego State University, a Master of Arts in Biology from the University of California-Los Angeles and studied the role of lipids and lipid metabolism enzymes in human disease at the University of California-San Diego School of Medicine for nearly a decade.

Jensen is no stranger to education or community colleges. He taught briefly at San Diego Community College and has been teaching and developing coursework for nearly 20 years at Cerro Coso Community College as an adjunct professor in Bishop and Mammoth. "Not only is Dennis an excellent biology teacher, but he also has a great handle on the ins and outs of the Mammoth and Bishop communities," commented Claudia Sellers, Full Time Biology Faculty Member and former Science Department Chair. In addition to being an experienced educator, Jensen is also an experienced scientist. He has worked with the California Department of Fish and Game for over a decade actively involved in restoring the endangered Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep.

"The Eastern Sierra College Center is thrilled to have Dennis as a full-time member of the faculty. He has been a tremendous resource for our science program to date and our college community is looking forward to his future contributions. The students flock to his classes - he has developed a teaching style that encourages and supports students in reaching their academic goals," commented Deanna Campbell, Director, Eastern Sierra College Center.

Jensen also relates to students on another level – his love for the Eastern Sierra. He is an avid climber, loves the outdoors and has been living in Bishop with his wife Lisa since 1984.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Joann Clark, Director of Public Information (760) 384-6230