New EdCC dean for instruction hired

Edmonds Community College has announced the appointment of Carey Schroyer as associate dean for instruction. Schroyer will be working with instructional deans, supporting faculty, assisting with part-time faculty classroom observations and working with professional development coordinators. She will also be involved with e-Learning to help enhance professional development opportunities for faculty.

Engage Everett plans networking meeting

A new monthly networking event, Engage Everett, is a chance to network with fellow professionals and creative types and receiving an update on important community projects in Everett. The event is free and open to the public. The next meeting is from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at The Austin, 2820 Oakes Ave., Everett.

S&P to pay state $21.5 million

Standard &Poor’s Financial Services will pay Washington state $21.5 million as a result of an investigation into the company’s misleading of investors when it rated structured finance securities in the lead-up to and the years following the 2007-08 financial crisis. Washington was one of 18 states involved in the case. In total, S&P will pay $1.4 billion to the federal government and the coalition of states.

New survey shows small business owner optimistic

Small business owners report they are the most optimistic in seven years, according to the latest Wells Fargo/Gallup Small Business Index. Stronger revenues, improved cash flow and increased hiring contributed to the improvement. In addition to reporting an improved present situation, business owners are said to be feeling confident about the year ahead.