CCS was honored to showcase 50 individuals and activities during our 50th Anniversary in 2017-2018 to share our rich history. Take a look at the amazing people responsible for making our unconventional College possible!   

From the moment Frank Bauman read his first book on dinosaurs at age six, he was hooked. This led Frank to the College of Creative Studies (CCS) where he, in the Biology program, could build his course load around his interests. "My favorite part of CCS was that I was able to fit the program to myself, rather than having to fit myself to the program," said Frank. He was able to focus on his passion, natural science, while concentrating on dinosaurs, of course. He finished in 3 years, and two of three years he lived on campus were at Santa Rosa Hall. Frank fondly remembers Professor Samuel Sweet, as Frank took many of Dr. Sweet's Biology courses. Recalled Frank: Professor Sweet was an excellent source of information, made himself available to students, and had suggestions for interesting books. 

My favorite part of CCS was that I was able to fit the program to myself, rather than having to fit myself to the program,

Frank worked as a general assistant at CCS while he was an undergraduate student. When the former Oxnard, CA resident graduated in 1979, he continued as a general assistant at CCS until his job was made permanent, where he continues to work to this day. Over the years, his role has evolved with the progress of technology. He explained that his job went "from odd jobs with some office work to office work with some odd jobs." During his tenure, he had to pick up computer skills on the fly. "The biggest change," he said, "was having to learn about computers and the Internet." Today's students may find it hard to fathom a paper-based College experience.

Frank has remained at CCS because it is a place where his talents thrive. When asked what keeps him at the College, he replied, "I'm a 'Jack of all trades' in a world full of specialists; what I've found at CCS is a place where it's OK to be a 'Jack of all trades.'" He further observed that CCS gives him "opportunities to pick the brains of people who know things that I don't." He continued, "I wouldn't be at CCS if it wasn't interesting." 

Frank, who has worked through at least four complete turnovers of CCS staff, is a tremendous asset to the institutional knowledge of the College. "Not only is Frank the official record keeper for the College, but he also knows so much history about this special place and the people who gave it life," said Jen Johansen, CCS Academic Personnel Analyst. He has been instrumental during the CCS 50th Anniversary in identifying former students and faculty in the College's photo archive. Frank's 40 plus years of experience and service at CCS gives him a unique perspective on the College. To him, "[CCS is] a provision for talented students to pursue programs of study commensurate with their abilities and interests unhindered by assumptions of mediocrity." 

Frank has had a profound impact on generations of CCS students. Often when alumni visit the old colorful building, they stop in to see Frank. "It seems like almost once a month someone from the CCS alumni community asks me if Frank still works here," said Will Proctor, CCS Communication and Development Associate. "They are always so happy to see him." When asked what advice he would give to current students, Frank replied, "Take advantage of your opportunity to learn from people: you can't ask a book a question."