Joyful renaissance at Highline’s Pink Prom
Highline College hosted their fourth annual Pink Prom to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. Building 8 was transformed into a rainbow-colored space where students were free to express themselves, dance the night away, compete in dance battles, and enjoy the entertainment.
Brought to life by the Q Center, the LGBTQIA+ Task Force and the CCIE, this year’s theme was “Rainbow Renaissance: a Pride Prom Fantasy Faire”.
Thunderword Staff in NewsJun 11, 2026• 3 min read
Editor’s Pick
The “Arcturus” is here!
The 2026 edition of the “Arcturus”, Highline’s literary journal, shined at two packed release parties last week, hosting nearly 160 people and showcasing the diverse and wide range of artists within the community.
The event was a celebration of creativity, community, and inspiration.
The theme of this year’s edition was ‘Symbiotic Metamorphosis.’
Mavrie Durham in NewsJun 11, 2026• 3 min read
Editor’s Pick
Amid US-Iran tension, Iranian royalists see opportunity
As tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel have intensified, one political movement has become increasingly visible both inside and outside Iran: the royalists.
While many Iranians fear the prospect of another war, a significant number of royalists have welcomed outside pressure on the Islamic Republic, including military action, seeing it as a possible path to political change.
Sher Mehryar in NewsJun 11, 2026• 3 min read
Editor’s Pick
Highline College’s syllabus policy isn’t as inclusive as you’ve been led to believe
As healthcare access rises in costs and lowers in accessibility, college syllabus policies have fallen behind in accounting for the challenges students are facing in accessing doctor’s notes – a common requirement for excused absences or assignments.
While Highline does not have a standard attendance or makeup policy for students, faculty are left with creating their own policies in their syllabus.
Ailin Caracoza in NewsJun 11, 2026• 3 min read
Editor’s Pick
Reflect and reminisce with the final ThunderPod episode of the year
With the ending of the 2026 spring quarter, this week’s episode brings you the final ThunderPod with host Evelyn Rissell and editor MacKenzie Charles.
This bittersweet ending reflects on the all things ThunderWord with esteemed professor Kara Stuart. Her interview concludes the Pod’s ongoing feature of Career Conversations with Highline’s Communication Studies Department.
Evelyn Rissell in NewsJun 11, 2026• 3 min read
Editor’s Pick
Standing on (the literal) top of the world: River’s inspiring story
On May 21, 2026, River Ahmad stood on the summit of Mount Everest. At 8,849 meters above sea level, she became the first woman from Afghanistan to reach the highest point on Earth.
She dedicated the journey to mental health awareness and to the education of women and girls in Afghanistan. For her, the mountain was a platform to tell a much bigger story.
Sher Mehryar in NewsJun 04, 2026• 3 min read
Campus
A cozy Welcome Tea with Women’s Programs & WorkFirst
Despite the title, the Welcome Tea had more than just a variety of teas for students to choose from to start their first mornings back on campus. The event, co-hosted by the Women’s Programs and WorkFirst, also gave out hot cocoa, coffee, and baked goods such as danishes for the first two mornings of the quarter.
Oct 01, 2026Read more
Joyful renaissance at Highline’s Pink Prom
Highline College hosted their fourth annual Pink Prom to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. Building 8 was transformed into a rainbow-colored space where students were free to express themselves, dance the night away, compete in dance battles, and enjoy the entertainment.
Brought to life by the Q Center, the LGBTQIA+ Task Force and the CCIE, this year’s theme was “Rainbow Renaissance: a Pride Prom Fantasy Faire”.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
The “Arcturus” is here!
The 2026 edition of the “Arcturus”, Highline’s literary journal, shined at two packed release parties last week, hosting nearly 160 people and showcasing the diverse and wide range of artists within the community.
The event was a celebration of creativity, community, and inspiration.
The theme of this year’s edition was ‘Symbiotic Metamorphosis.’
Jun 11, 2026Read more
Highline College’s syllabus policy isn’t as inclusive as you’ve been led to believe
As healthcare access rises in costs and lowers in accessibility, college syllabus policies have fallen behind in accounting for the challenges students are facing in accessing doctor’s notes – a common requirement for excused absences or assignments.
While Highline does not have a standard attendance or makeup policy for students, faculty are left with creating their own policies in their syllabus.
Community
What’s coming up next: King County Elections
Election season is in full swing, and with that, King County Elections has a lot on the calendar! With new voters especially, there are a lot of questions regarding the ballot. Here, you can find opportunities to engage with other voters, get logistical questions answered, and participate in this upcoming election cycle.
Oct 01, 2026Read more
Amid US-Iran tension, Iranian royalists see opportunity
As tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel have intensified, one political movement has become increasingly visible both inside and outside Iran: the royalists.
While many Iranians fear the prospect of another war, a significant number of royalists have welcomed outside pressure on the Islamic Republic, including military action, seeing it as a possible path to political change.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
Nowruz in Seattle: Tradition, identity, and cultural continuity in migration
Nowruz, the Persian New Year marking the spring equinox, has been celebrated for more than three millennia across regions of Central and Western Asia. Today it is observed by more than 300 million people across different regions, including diaspora throughout western countries.
This short documentary by a Highline College student explores the celebration of Nowruz in the Seattle area. Through the experiences of immigrant communities in King County, Washington, it reveals how the Persian New Year continues to thrive in migration—reimagined in new cultural settings while remaining deeply rooted in memory, identity, and belonging.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
Standing on (the literal) top of the world: River’s inspiring story
On May 21, 2026, River Ahmad stood on the summit of Mount Everest. At 8,849 meters above sea level, she became the first woman from Afghanistan to reach the highest point on Earth.
She dedicated the journey to mental health awareness and to the education of women and girls in Afghanistan. For her, the mountain was a platform to tell a much bigger story.
Jun 04, 2026Read more
Remembering Juniper Blessing
Juniper Blessing was tragically murdered in the laundry room of her off-campus apartment at the University of Washington, Seattle on May 10, 2026. While much of the press circulating around her is about her murder and the horrificness of Christopher Leahy’s crime, in doing so, Juniper becomes a number, a headline, a statistic.
Juniper, however, is fondly remembered by her peers, her family, her vocal coach, and her loved ones back in New Mexico. Juniper’s legacy is one to be celebrated and remembered.
Jun 04, 2026Read more
Celebrating AANHPI Month
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month honors the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) in the United States.
It’s celebrated annually in May, so as May comes to a close, I find it only fitting that we review some of the contributions the AANHPI communities have made to American culture.
May 28, 2026Read more
Why is the term “Afghan” for all people of Afghanistan problematic?
In the middle of heated debates on X, formerly known as Twitter, a phrase appears again and again from thousands of people from Afghanistan: “I am not Afghan.” For many outsiders, this can seem confusing. After all, Afghanistan is the name of the country. Wouldn’t “Afghan” describe everyone from there?
For people from Afghanistan, however, the issue is a bit complicated. It is tied to history, ethnicity, language, power, and identity — and to a feeling, shared by many non-Pashtun communities, that one group’s identity was turned into the identity of an entire nation.
May 28, 2026Read more
Mount Rainier, a photo story
This story is about the famous, massive, active volcano that is just chilling in our backyard, her name is Mount Rainier.
Rainier has the highest peak in the Cascade Range at 14,410 feet, and is the centerpiece of Mount Rainier National Park, which is famous for its ancient forests, subalpine wildflowers, and extensive glaciers.
Sports
Gout Gout’s 200m record ratified by World Athletics
Gout Gout, the 19-year-old sprinter, had his 200m record officially recognized.
In Sydney, Australia in April of this year, Gout Gout ran a 19.67 second 200m sprint. This score got ratified on Tuesday, June 2, of this year, marking him as the Junior World Record holder. His runner up, Aidan Murphy, also became a record holder as he ran a 19.88 second 200m. This is Australia’s second fastest time. Three other people also set a record at that event.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
2026 NBA Playoffs update: The NBA Finals are here
The NBA Finals will see the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs face off in a repeat matchup of the 1999 Finals. The teams faced off in the 2025 NBA cup that occurred in this year’s regular season; a game in which the Knicks won out. Game 1 of this prestigious event kicked off last night in the Spurs’ home arena with the Knicks off to a winning start.
Game 1 of the NBA Finals concluded Wednesday, June 3, and the Knicks pulled off a come-from-behind win over the Spurs. The Knicks are currently on a 12-game win streak and currently have all the momentum. Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs still feel confident in the series and have experience in being behind in a series.
Jun 04, 2026Read more
From legacy to leadership: Flau’jae Johnson’s journey to the Storm
Rookie guard Flau’jae Johnson has the Seattle Storm’s fanbase abuzz with excitement, even in her short time with the franchise. Seattle’s fanbase is one of the most loyal in the league, a community that held onto the Storm when the Sonics were taken away and built a culture of resilience and pride around women’s basketball.
The crowd that cheers on the Storm is a mix of longtime WNBA loyalists, former NBA fans searching for a home, and people who come for the sense of community the Storm creates. The energy inside Climate Pledge Arena feels like a heartbeat: steady, loud, and deeply rooted in the city’s identity. And that energy has been sparked anew thanks to the arrival of the young, promising athlete, bringing a new beat to the pulse of the Storm; which is fitting, because she is not just an athlete but also a musician, with a successful rap career.
The resident got evil in theaters!
“Resident Evil” came out in theaters on Sept. 18 and fans have been loving it. Leading up to the release of the movie, there was some skepticism about the quality of the film, mainly due to video game adaptations usually being bad – especially when it comes to “Resident Evil”.
Oct 01, 2026Read more
“Footloose” brings the movement to the Renton Civic Theater
The stage production of the 1984 film, “Footloose”, made famous for its soundtrack and emerging star-quality cast, opened up this weekend at the Renton Civic Theater (RCT) to a nearly packed house and joyful crowd.
The rock-and-roll classic about healing with community brought our own community together as local artists, from King County high schoolers to longtime musicians, performed for a charmed audience.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
The wasted potential of “Euphoria” – Part 2
“Euphoria” has gained notoriety over the years for its popularity and influence among Gen-Z viewers. However, much of this popularity isn’t due to the writing at all – it’s due to the distinct aesthetics.
“Euphoria” has always been known for its unique visuals, style, and sound. With a first season so heavily acclaimed for its excellent cinematography, audiences are left wondering what has happened since then. How did a show so culturally iconic lose its momentum, and how did the well-known aesthetics the show was once known for just…disappear?
Jun 04, 2026Read more
The lost art of physical media
In the current days of the streaming era, many people don’t keep physical media like music and movies, since those are seconds away on their phone instead. Slightly older people have developed a superiority complex because some younger folk don’t know what a cassette tape is.
Yet beneath the jokes and generational teasing lies a more serious conversation about what is lost when entertainment exists only as a digital file or a temporary subscription. Physical media is more than nostalgia. It represents ownership, preservation, and a more personal connection to art that streaming services often fail to replicate.
May 28, 2026Read more
Ariana Grande builds anticipation for upcoming single ahead of “Petal” album release
As anticipation builds for Ariana Grande’s upcoming studio album, “Petal”, Grande is set to release her new single, “Hate That I Made You Love Me”, on May 29, giving fans an early glimpse into what could become one of the singer’s most personal musical eras yet.
Although the song has not officially been released, excitement surrounding the new single has quickly spread across social media platforms following Grande’s announcement of the track and her upcoming album, “Petal,” which is set to release July 31.
May 28, 2026Read more
The wasted potential of “Euphoria” – Part 1
The hit show “Euphoria” recently premiered its third and final season after years of anticipation, instantly sparking multitudes of online discussion among fans. Arguably one of the most divisive pieces of television in recent years, the series has gained some of the highest praise as well as some of the harshest criticisms…but why?
The generation-defining HBO series made its debut in 2019, instantly becoming a hit among teenagers. Starring Zendaya and a majority-female cast, the struggles of drug addiction, trauma, and relationships are portrayed through a colorful and glittery lens. Numerous themes of adolescence are explored through carefully curated cinematography, instantly capturing the attention of millions.
Science & Technology
A new study discovered that dogs can tell the difference between several human emotions. While dogs have been known to recognize emotions, this is the first time scientists have discovered how they actually do this.
Oct 01, 2026Read more
New research reveals health risks rattlesnakes are facing in Southeastern United States
A sample study done on over 500 rattlesnakes showed a major health concern. These hidden illnesses are a real factor in the possible extinction of wild rattlesnakes in the United States.
This study was conducted on rattlesnakes in two wildlife refuges in South Carolina and Florida. Most of their specimens were living rattlesnakes that they took skin swabs and blood samples of before releasing them. They also took tissue samples from dead snakes that were found on roads and in the wild.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
A snake discovered in 1864 found to be five different species
New discoveries reveal that what scientists previously viewed as the Himalayan pit viper was actually five separate species. Not only has this discovery come over 100 years after the snake’s first discovery, but three of the identified species had been previously unknown to scientists.
The Himalayan pit viper has been known to scientists for over 160 years. It was first reported in 1864 and categorized as a single species, which we now know to be untrue.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
A massive study done on feline cancer reveals similarities with humans and dogs
Scientists have discovered similarities in feline and human cancer, which can help develop new treatments for cancer in humans.
A study, posted in February 2026 by the University of Guelph, genetically analyzed tumors in cats. This is the largest contribution to genetic profiling of cancer in cats. Cancer in cats has been one of the leading causes of death, but it was rather unstudied before this.
Jun 04, 2026Read more
Sea Star Wasting Disease devastates starfish population
Star fish are disappearing all over the north west, dying in large numbers due to a disease called Sea Star Wasting Disease.
As you walk along the Pacific West Coast beaches, you may notice something concerning: sea stars with twisted arms, lesions, or bodies that seem to be melting away. This distressing sight is a trademark of Sea Star Wasting Disease (SSWD). The disease has affected over 20 species of sea stars.
Jun 04, 2026Read more
PMOS: A new name for PCOS that seeks to improve diagnosis
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) officially has a new name that will hopefully help people improve diagnosis and treatment: polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).
This name change was brought about due to concerns that the old name placed too much emphasis on the presence of cysts and ovaries, while the syndrome is more accurately depicted as a hormonal or endocrine disorder.
May 28, 2026Read more
Scientists have found why some cancer is resistant to treatment
In the fight against cancer, we have discovered that a protein called MYC that helps tumors grow also helps repair the tumor’s DNA when undergoing chemotherapy.
MYC plays a large role in cell proliferation, which is the division of cells into two daughter cells, and it controls the expression of about 15% of all genes. The large percentage of genes it oversees allows for it to easily turn cancerous, as cancer cells are just abnormal cells in the body, and this has been seen in its over activeness in a lot of human cancers.
News Briefs
Trump administration enacts revisions to Title IX
On Monday, Sept. 28 2026, the Trump administration announced they had rolled back a Biden era policy that included LGBTQ people under the sex based discrimination policy Title IX.
Oct 01, 2026Read more
Hayley Kiyoko’s “Girls Like Girls” premiering in theaters this Pride month
The highly anticipated “Girls Like Girls” film is coming to theaters on June 19, in time for Pride month. It is an adaptation of the book “Girls Like Girls” by Hayley Kiyoko, originally based on her song of the same name.
Kiyoko was a cornerstone of queer media in the 2010s. She was one of the first lesbians in mainstream media during that era, and she was looked up to by many young queer girls.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
Congrats to all ASC student employees graduating this year!
The Academic Success Center would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations to all ASC student employees who are graduating this year. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to supporting fellow students have made a lasting impact on our campus community.
As you celebrate this important milestone and begin the next chapter of your journey, we are incredibly proud of all that you have accomplished.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
Highline is hosting their third annual lavender graduation
Highline will be hosting their third annual Lavender Graduation for the school’s queer graduates. This event is meant to uplift our LGBTQIA+ graduates at Highline by celebrating their unique accomplishments and identities.
The event is happening on June 11, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. It will be located in Building 8 in Mt. Constance/Olympus.
Jun 04, 2026Read more
The 2026 “Arcturus” is almost here!
The 58th annual “Arcturus” launches next week, celebrating creativity across the diverse Highline community. The literary journal puts together a variety of artistic submissions from students, staff, faculty, and alumni. Founded in 1968 by a group of Highline students, the mission of the publication is to uplift the Highline community by showcasing works of art that represent this diversity.
The “Arcturus” is having their release party next Wednesday, June 3, in Building 2.
Opinion
“Percy Jackson” and the comeback of book adaptations
As far as book to film adaptations go, there isn’t necessarily a good rep with them. However the latest T.V. show based on the “Percy Jackson” books by Rick Riordan has absolutely raised the bar.
Now, if you are a fan of the series, you know very well that the original movies sucked. Not because they weren’t good or anything, but because they were nothing like the book, which was very sad for all of the people out there who love the books.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
Running Start is too valuable for budget cuts
State lawmakers passed a concerning budget cutting $14 million from the state’s Running Start program. This would first cut the ability for students to take classes over the summer quarter and it would also limit the number of credits that students can take each quarter.
These cuts will make it significantly harder for students to graduate with their associate degree at the same time as receiving their high school diploma.
Jun 04, 2026Read more
Corporate Pride collections: Are they really worth it?
Pride collections are something that corporations come out with every June, ranging from queer apparel to rainbow cat toys (yes, Target, I’m looking at you). The real question is, is it really necessary?
Some people find the Pride collections to be ways to show who they are, unapologetic and loud. Others find it as a way for corporations to earn more money. While both are valid points, I personally am one of the ones who loves to show off my identity through clothing, loud and proud.
ThunderPod
Reflect and reminisce with the final ThunderPod episode of the year
With the ending of the 2026 spring quarter, this week’s episode brings you the final ThunderPod with host Evelyn Rissell and editor MacKenzie Charles.
This bittersweet ending reflects on the all things ThunderWord with esteemed professor Kara Stuart. Her interview concludes the Pod’s ongoing feature of Career Conversations with Highline’s Communication Studies Department.
Jun 11, 2026Read more
This week the ThunderPod is King
Amy Rider King works with students through communications classes and the Public Speaking Center, creating a supportive space for confidence, growth, and connection across campus.
Check out what she has to say as she sits down for a conversation with host Evelyn Rissell in the second-to-last ThunderPod episode of the year!
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