We Are Jackson College, Spring 2016 by Jackson College

Spring 2016

vol. 3 issue 5

Safety First College does its homework to create safe campus

In the wake of increasingly common mass shootings and violence in schools and college campuses, officials at Jackson College are taking a proactive rather than reactive approach to promote safety on campus.

Jackson College recently welcomed Dr. Michael

Commission of Law Enforcement Standards), used

Clumpner, co-founder and president/chief executive

by most law enforcement and public safety officers

officer of Threat Suppressions, Inc. to campus.

in the State of Michigan, and participate in multiple

In addition to present a daylong professional

trainings throughout the year. Security officers help

development training session with employees

to enforce campus rules and regulations, make

about active shooter situations, Clumpner also

routine patrols, perform security checks in buildings,

spent a day walking around the Central Campus While Jackson College has historically had a very

investigate problems or disturbances and provide

and W.J. Maher Campus doing a safety and security

safe campus, officials have made several preemptive

safety escorts for students.

assessment. His evaluation and recommendations are

measures as our society changes. “We want all of

now being reviewed by college personnel to make

our students, employees and guests to feel very safe

improvements where necessary.

Jackson County Sheriff’s Department to provide an

work and live,” said Cindy Allen, vice president of

College personnel have hosted meetings with

various times throughout the day. Contracted security

administration. “Unfortunately the national news

local law enforcement agencies, such as Blackman

has shown us almost weekly about shootings on

Township Police, Michigan State Police and the

campuses and at schools; we need to do all we can

Jackson Sheriff’s Department, to discuss the safety

to discourage any actions of violence against our

and security of campus. Future trainings and full

students and employees.”

simulations are in the works, to prepare and to act as

and secure in this environment where they learn,

a deterrent to possible crime. College officials have worked with local police and fire agencies in making sure campus signage is clear and direct in the event of an emergency, and making building plans and schematics available. Video surveillance is utilized throughout the College’s locations. Emergency alerts via text and e-mail are available through a service called Nixle. “I’ve seen a lot in the evolution of security out here,” said Jeff Whipple, director of security who has worked with the College 31 years. In the past the College was covered by night security guards whose primary tasks were locking buildings, checking boilers and basically keeping watch over campus. Today, security officers are college employees who are fully trained and certified by MCOLES (Michigan

In addition, the College has contracted with the evening deputy as well as deputies on campus at

services are also utilized.

are urged to take care with their own and

While security officers are carefully trained and

other’s safety and security, including locking

coverage has been increased, officers can’t be

their doors when they leave, not walking

everywhere. “Everything is changing, things are

away and leaving a door open, not allowing

happening all over,” Whipple said. “Everyone has

non-residents into the building or propping

to realize, safety and security is something we are all

open exterior doors, and getting to know

responsible for, and must participate in.”

one’s neighbors and resident assistants.

Employees and students are asked to be aware and

“You need to be responsible for your

notice the situations going on around them, so they

belongings,” Whipple said. “It’s tough to say

can notice if anything or anyone looks out of place,

but true, sometimes people are watching

such as a book bag or box left in a conspicuous

you, looking for an opportunity. Be wise, and

place. Employees wear name tags and security

be responsible. We become

badges at all times to help recognize them from

so complacent.”

students or visitors. On campus, classroom and laboratory doors are kept locked both when

Don’t hesitate to call security if something

empty or after a class is in session.

seems out of place or for a security escort

With the creation of student housing on campus,

evenings. “Some people say they hate to

security has taken on another level for Jackson

bother us, don’t – it’s not a bother, that’s why

College resident students. Young people may not

we’re here,” Whipple said.

realize the potential dangers that face them, but they

to a building or vehicle, especially in the

Tips for safety Jackson College recently met with Dr. Michael Clumpner, co-founder and president/chief executive officer of Threat Suppressions, Inc., about safety and preparedness on campus in the event of an active shooter. Clumpner has lectured globally on numerous public safety issues, and studied integrated active shooter response as part of his dissertation for his doctorate in homeland security leadership from Northcentral University. He is a sworn law enforcement officer, flight paramedic, and fire captain. He has presented active shooter lectures on four continents to a variety of audiences. He has trained more than 40,000 responders on integrative active shooter response. Here are some tips for all: 1. Be aware; increase your own situational awareness. For example, don’t stand with your back to the door. Stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you. 2. Know that the boogey man does exist; keep our eyes out. Have your own standard operating protocol; what will I do in the case of an emergency? Prepare mentally in advance. 3. Talk at the school, have organizational plans and policies in place and communicate those. For students, if you have questions, ask. 4. Ensure that you are subscribed to the campus mass notification system (Nixle). 5. Familiarize yourself with the layout of your campus. Survey the campus while classes are in sessions and after dark to see that buildings, walkways, facilities and parking lots are adequately secured and well-lighted. 6. Plan the safest route to your destination; choose well- lighted, busy pathways or streets. 7. If you see something suspicious, or would like to have an escort to your car or to another building, contact security. 8. Program emergency phone numbers into your cell phone. 9. If you notice a suspicious person or vehicle, try to remember a description. What age, gender, hair color was the person? What make of automobile, color, body- style, distinguishing characteristics (racing stripes, tinted windows, damage). 10. Never leave computers, backpacks, book bags, purses or other belongings out of reach. Keep money, credit/ debit cards and check books out of sight.

Dedication, determination lead to success for basketball alum Determination and a love for basketball have taken Jackson College alumnus Jordan Ebbs a long way. Originally from West Palm Beach, Fla., Ebbs was a high school standout who attended Palm Beach

Nursing students

Community College for a year before relocating to Michigan to be near his mother, a recovering alcoholic. At 19, Ebbs had custody of his younger brother, who was 10 at the time, and the family

Decorating cupcakes and cookies, passing out journals,

thought it would be best if his brother lived near his mother. Although Ebbs had been accepted to

playing cards with kids. Jackson College nursing students

Clafin University in South Carolina, he made the sacrifice of moving to Michigan to keep

are learning fun and helpful ways to help people learn about

his family together.

mental health.

In the summer of 2009, Ebbs was registered for classes, living in campus housing and waiting for the

Students in Professor Marina Martinez-Kratz’s mental health

fall semester to start. One day he was shooting baskets in the Victor Cuiss Fieldhouse when then coach

nursing courses reach out each semester to residents at

Steve Finamore noticed his talent. Finamore and coach, John Willis, invited him to join the team as a

the Interfaith Shelter of Jackson. They offer helping hands

walk-on that semester, and he continued playing throughout his years at JC, graduating in 2011. He

to residents who are in a place of crisis, in turn gaining

received various sports honorable mention recognitions, and made the Dean’s List in academics.

an opportunity to serve in a different setting. On a recent

“Coach Willis was instrumental in my success on and off the court,” he said. Willis made the team practice at 5:30 a.m., and taught discipline and time management skills that went beyond basketball. If a player was late to practice, they had to run a mile. Team members had to run until everyone got to practice. “Once and only once, Coach Willis was late. He didn’t say a word, just took off his shirt and started to run his mile (and he is a big man). It was hard on him, but he did it. That showed me more integrity and character than anything else in life.” After completing his Associate of General Studies degree, Ebbs transferred to the University of Texas of the Permian Basin campus to study business administration and play basketball. He is currently finishing his bachelor’s degree in communication of technology at Eastern Michigan University, while he is also running a successful business, the Ann Arbor Basketball Academy. His sacrifice to come to Michigan to keep his family together has yielded personal benefits as well. His mother is seven years sober, and Ebbs is proud of her and her recovery. “She inspires me, and I make her proud.” His younger brother is a senior in high school and thinking about colleges. Thanks to his start at Jackson College, Ebbs has played basketball at small and Division II colleges and has been afforded many opportunities, now operating his own basketball business. “My times at JCC were some of the best years of my life! I am so happy that I got to play at Jackson College.”

We Are Jackson College | Spring 2016

February day around Valentine’s time, students organized activities focusing on heart or cardiac health and stress relief.

“It’s a different kind of nursing environment,” said student Amanda Elliott, who will graduate in December. “It’s good to be in the community and see what they are going through, and how as nurses, we can help.”

Pathways efforts aim to boost student success Jackson College is helping to write the book on a new effort to guide students through college.

offer bright spot

to homeless shelter

Most students who come to a community college generally come with some goal in mind (i.e., completing an associate degree or certificate, or transferring to a university). Unfortunately, the percentage of students who complete their goals is unsatisfactory. The reasons for this are many, but one thing remains clear – it’s time to try something new. Community colleges offer hundreds of courses, and students traditionally have taken

Students first visit the shelter and speak with residents about what issues they

a “cafeteria-style” approach to completing an associate degree or a certificate – choosing from dozens of majors and hundreds of course options. For some students, too many options create a confusing maze to work through. Without clear, focused

face and complete a needs assessment,

and regular guidance, they may take courses that aren’t necessary to their program,

then plan their outreach. In addition

or take them out of the optimal order.

to establishing therapeutic goals, they evaluate the outcomes with surveys.

Redesigning that maze into a few clear paths to a credential is the goal of the College’s Guided Pathways efforts. College faculty, administrators and staff have

Decorating heart cookies and fruit

worked together to create clear pathways that students may follow to reach their goal,

pizzas while discussing cardiac health,

offering a support structure to help students succeed.

distributing journals for writing down feelings and frustrations, decorating cupcakes as a distraction technique, and playing card games with children were part of the activities this day.

“It has been an eye-opening experience,” said student Rebecca Gentry, who will graduate in December. “People have their preconceived notions about what it may be like in a shelter, but it is so much more. When you see a whole family in this situation, you want to help, you want to do something.” Nursing students have been visiting the Interfaith Shelter since 2009, providing service, teaching and activities. Students have also helped with

Each Pathway is a broad content area that students will choose as they begin college. They are: • Business & Computer Technology

• Health Science

• Human Services

• Liberal Arts

• Science, Engineering & Mathematics • Skilled Trades & Agriculture Students will be able to plan out their entire schedule for their program of study, with milestones marked along the way to support their progress. Faculty members have mapped all programs, providing students a clear, predictable schedule. Our new student success navigators will help tailor those program maps into individualized program plans to meet each student’s unique needs. Support will begin at orientation and continue throughout a student’s college experience. At Jackson College, we are Totally Committed to Student Success (TCS2). It is both our motto and our imperative. Mapping a clear path to a valuable college credential is just another of the many ways we are working to improve outcomes for our students. With help and support from our new student success navigators, along with faculty and staff, Jackson College is working hard to help all of our students reach their goals!

cleaning, food preparation, holding babies, basic health surveillance such as blood pressure and pulse checks, teaching about medications, diseases and more to residents. Dr. Daniel J. Phelan President, Jackson College

Softball players’ tutoring project a hit with students, parents

Former trustee to receive Distinguished Service Award

Jackson College women’s softball players have

academic help, the younger students are learning

Jackson College is pleased to recognize

teamed up with students at Western Middle School to

important skills of asking for help for what they need –

Christina Medlar with the 2016 Distinguished

boost their success in the classroom!

self-advocacy.

Service Award.

Since the start of the school year, softball players

“It’s helped me to make sure my work is done,” said

Medlar is a former member of the Jackson

have volunteered to tutor middle school students

Margaret, a seventh-grade student.

College Board of Trustees, serving from

for an hour after school Monday through Thursday.

“My grades are all passing, all the time,” said Max, a

2000-2012. Serving her community is second

Students are added to the program based on teacher

seventh-grade student.

nature to Medlar. She has been active in

or counselor recommendations.

school parent programs, was a Scout leader, Vandenburgh said the College students have gotten

and several local organizations, including Ella

a great deal from the experience as well. Some now

Sharp Museum, United Way and the Jackson

want to go into education as a career, and it’s not

Symphony Orchestra.

uncommon for them to come to softball practice and

She has served as

talk about a student they’ve tutored who has found

fundraising chair or

success in a class or done well on a test.

co-chair with the

“I absolutely love working with the students there,” said college student Karissa Shay. “I love the feeling of being able to help them complete their homework that they were for sure thinking they were not going to get done. For them, it is like a weight is lifted off their shoulders. I think it’s a great program.” Overall, it’s a win-win!

Jackson High School Ambassador Dinner/ Auction, AWARE Shelter, Jackson Symphony Ball, and the former Michigan Space and Science Center. She has

“This has been an amazing help,” said Anne Starr,

served on many boards, including the Respite

counselor at Western Middle School. “Sometimes

Center, Jackson College Foundation, First

parents don’t know how to help, and I’ve had them

Presbyterian Church, Jackson County Medical

call and ask about tutoring, and in the past I’ve had to

Society Auction, Jackson Symphony Guild and

refer them to outside for-hire sources. Now, to have

Board, and the Michigan Space and

the college students here, we have a support in place

Science Center.

for the students who need it. It’s an amazing gift to give our students!”

A retired educator, Medlar taught elementary grades four through six in the Detroit area.

The project is the brainchild of softball coach Jamie

Today, she resides in Clark Lake with her

Vandenburgh, now in her first year as a seventh-grade

husband, Dr. R. Charles Medlar, a retired

science teacher at Western, who led a similar program

orthopedic surgeon. She holds a bachelor’s

at Homer Middle School. “It is the goal of the Jackson

degree from Western Michigan University

College softball program to be active and involved in

and a master’s degree from the University of

our area and give back to the local community who

Michigan. She also took classes at what was

graciously supports us,” Vandenburgh said.

Jackson Community College during summers.

Middle school teachers have seen the benefit of the program as many students have pulled their grades up and kept them up, Starr said. In addition to the

We Are Jackson College | Spring 2016

Alumni & Foundation

UPDATE

Alumnus heads neighboring Kellogg Community College

We are pleased to present this Jackson College Alumni & Foundation Update! In these pages you will find news of Jackson College alumni and events, updates from the Foundation and much more!

Where can you go with a community college education? How about leading another community college? Mark O’Connell, an alumnus of what was Jackson Community College (JCC) in 1978-‘79, was recently named president of Kellogg Community College in Battle Creek. He grew

including his first job directing the College Business Development Center to his most recent being vice president of administration and finance. His

up in Jackson and graduated from Lumen Christi High

background in finance and business development

School, before attending JCC for a year and a half.

and his wealth of institutional knowledge helped

“I am a product of a community college; I know the value I received while attending JCC and opportunity it offered towards my seamless transfer to WMU,”

qualify him for the president’s position. He was instrumental in creating Kellogg’s expansion centers outside of the College’s district, including

he said.

Coldwater, Hastings and Albion.

O’Connell transferred to Western Michigan

“This comes at a time where we are challenged

University, where he received his bachelor’s

with enrollment trends that many community

and master’s degrees, and then went on to

colleges have been facing. We’re facing extremely

receive his business counselor certification

challenging times,” O’Connell said.

from Wayne State University. He worked in employment training for 12 years in the

“Higher education today is highly competitive that

Battle Creek area and often interacted

is no longer driven by a school’s physical location.

with Kellogg Community College for skills

It’s important to understand the needs of the

training work. He began his career at KCC

community so that we can respond accordingly to

in 1990 and has held several positions,

meet those local needs.”

Uncover the many benefits of a planned gift

Bring Jackson County home in living color with new book

Did you know that there are many ways to support students besides writing a check? With a little planning, you can include a gift to us within your overall estate or financial plans that supports Jackson College students and provides you with tax benefits in return.

Get to know more about the sights and sounds of Jackson County and help benefit Jackson College scholarships at the same time.

These types of donations are often referred to as planned gifts because they require some planning and often, help from your financial advisors. Planned gifts can be made now to immediately support our needs or they can be enacted upon your death as a final way to leave your legacy. Consider these popular options: A gift in your will or revocable living trust. Known as a bequest, this form of giving is accomplished by working with your attorney to include a few simple sentences, called bequest language, in your will or living trust. Because this gift doesn’t go into effect until your death, you can change your mind at any time. A gift of your retirement plan assets. By naming Jackson College as a beneficiary on the beneficiary designation form for a percentage (1-100) of your account’s final value, you can make a tax-wise gift to support our students and programs after your lifetime. A gift that provides you with income for life. Through a life income gift, you make a gift and in return you and, if you desire, someone else receive income for life. After your lifetime and that of the other person you choose, the remaining balance of your gift supports Jackson College. To learn more about the benefits of planned gifts, please contact Jason Valente at 517.787.0244.

Grass Lake area photographer Dale Fisher has compiled a full-color coffee table book “Jackson County: Visions of the Eagle,” now available. Fisher is a renowned aerial photographer known for his books on Ann Arbor and Southeast Michigan, including iconic photographs of the University of Michigan Stadium. This 272-page hardcover coffee table book showcases Jackson County. In its mixture of historic buildings and homes, parks and golf courses, manufacturing facilities, farms, and its special events, Jackson reveals itself to be not only a lovely place, but also unique in many ways. Jackson County strikes the perfect balance of downtown excitement, rich history, natural beauty, culture and outdoor fun. The cost of each book is $55, with $20 of the proceeds going towards student scholarships offered through the Jackson College Foundation. Scholarship funds support more than 300 deserving Jackson College students annually. To purchase a copy, please contact Cindy Gilmore, Jackson College Foundation at 517.787.0244 or e-mail cgilmore@jccmi.edu.

Sportsman’s Banquet tops last year’s mark The 2016 Sportsman’s Banquet welcomed its largest turnout in February, with 325 people attending. It raised $29,000 for Jets baseball and volleyball programs, up 21 percent from the $23,000 raised the prior year. This is an evening dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts, hunters and sportsmen and women, featuring a live auction for prizes such as a bear hunt in Canada and others, and raffle drawings for guns, hunting equipment, sporting goods and more. Keynote speaker for the evening was Dr. Russ Mason of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Division. Mason has served as chief of his division since 2008, and before that was game chief of the Nevada Department of Wildlife from 2005-08. He also served as a science advisor to the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies in Washington, D.C., and served as mammals research program manager for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services in Fort Collins, Colo., where he administered a national research program, among other posts. He has always had a special interest in preparing the next generation of wildlife professionals. Winners of the pre-event raffle include: 1st place Vespa scooter, Lynn Allen, 2nd place Rolex watch, Shirley Treacher, 3rd place Muzzle Loader, Matt Jones. Sponsors for the 2016 event included Adrenaline Outfitting, Bob Vandenburgh, Express CNC & Fabrication, Jackson College Foundation, Levi Kimball, Massive Mineral Mix, Mercer Construction, PJ Builders, Rand Academy of Firearm Training, Superior Industrial Sales & Service, Tim Nichols, Trac-Trenching, Williams Family, and Willis & Jurasek. Table captains included the Bateman Family, Bees Supplies, Corey Kimball, James Rice, Johnson Sporting Goods, Kruizenga Archery, Matt Hoornstra, Matt Jones, Mitch Goodwin, Northern Boyz, Phil Smith, Skeeter Batter Mix and the Smith Family.

Thank you to all who contributed and to all participants in making this year’s event a success!

Retired faculty member, alumnus

continues to help students through scholarship

As a young college student, Woodrow Wilson Jr. faced his own successes and challenges. Now, he wants to help future students, so the Jackson College Foundation honored the retired faculty member by establishing a scholarship in his name. Wilson graduated from Jackson Community College in 1967, and then continued on to complete his bachelor’s degree in education from Olivet College in 1969. He later earned his Master of Arts and Education Specialist degrees from Michigan State University. “I loved Jackson College as a student,” Wilson said. “Some of the best days of my life were spent as a student there. I met some people who are dear friends to this day.” He began at the College in 1972 after a few years teaching at Starr Commonwealth. Over his nearly 40 years he served in a variety of roles, and finished his career as part of the teaching faculty before retiring in 2011. His impact continues with support of the Woodrow Wilson Multicultural Center on Central Campus. The scholarship fund is available to full-time students who maintain a 3.5 grade point average and have 26 or more credits. “Community college is ideal to help find an identity, develop study habits, find great instructors, make friends, develop different peer relationships, and strive to be everything you want to be,” Wilson said. “The scholarship goes to help others who have been helped by the College the way I was. Hopefully they understand what someone can do for them, and in time, they can do something for someone else. That way it can perpetuate itself.”

Scholarships offer peace of mind to students The Jackson College Foundation supports the comprehensive mission of the College by providing additional resources necessary to ensure success. Scholarships are an important part of that support. Last year, scholarships helped students further their educational dreams with $336,852 in assistance. Students have shared that their scholarship funds make a significant difference to their college experience, taking away some of the financial worries and offering them peace of mind to focus on their studies. Scholarship funds are provided by the generosity of numerous area residents, businesses and organizations that support the College. These endowed scholarships are available to students based on criteria set by individual donors, with awards for various majors and student groups, such as first-generation college students. To learn more, visit https://www.jccmi.edu/foundation/.

He encourages others to give and help students however they can. “Every little bit helps. If you can give monetarily, that’s always needed. If you can’t, just encourage students. Give them a job, have them rake leaves, shovel snow, anything to encourage them to seek out and reach their goals. All of us have received some help somewhere along the lines.” In his retirement, Wilson continues to speak with the Men of Merit student group, and always asks members about how things are going. He does this to show them someone cares, and that they can continue their college studies, even when they may face doubts. “I never understood when I was a young instructor, hearing other instructors say the students can keep you young. Now I truly understand what they are talking about,” he said. “You give to them, they give to you, and they continue to give to other folks.”

Stay connected with alumni program! Think your relationship with Jackson College ends after graduation or when you finish your program? Jackson College offers an alumni program with a variety of benefits. Learn more at www.jccmi.edu/ alumni/, or by contacting Brigette Robinson, director of alumni relations; contact her at 517.990.1386, or robinsobrigetta@jccmi.edu.

Maher Campus offers meeting space for rental Jackson now has a new option for meeting and conference facilities with the W.J. Maher Campus, 3000 Blake Road. With easy access to I-94 and U.S. 127, Maher Campus offers a variety of room sizes and styles for groups and events of all types, with nearly 5,000 square feet of conference and event space available for rental, with spaces that offer seating for up to 300. There are large learning studios with Internet access, whiteboard, overhead projector and screen, document camera and CD/DVD player with surround sound. Computer labs are available that offer 26 desktop stations or 22 notebook computers. In addition, there are smaller breakout and conference rooms that feature large video monitors with laptop connection for projection. Commonwealth Associates of Jackson has held several training seminars at the facility. “Jackson College is a real gem in our community, not only for the education it provides our people, but also for the facilities they provide,” said Dennis DeCosta, president of Commonwealth Associates. “In our case, we have used the Maher Campus of Jackson College very successfully for a year or so now, and we are continuing to use it. We simply use it for all of our events where we conduct training. They are excellent facilities; we couldn’t ask for more!” CP Federal Credit Union has also utilized the space for a training day. “Not only was the space perfect for our meeting, but the staff and team there at the Maher Campus did everything they could to take care of us leading up to the day, during the event and afterward; the support was impressive,” said Valerie Schuette, vice president of operations. “They were able to accommodate us with a large room for the whole group, as well as smaller spaces for breakout group sessions. I appreciate the facilities and the support we received.”

“In our case, we have used the Maher Campus of Jackson College very successfully for a year or so now, and we are continuing to use it. We simply use it for all of our events where we conduct training. They are excellent facilities; we couldn’t ask for more!” – Dennis DeCosta Commonwealth Associates, president

“Not only was the space perfect for our meeting, but the staff and team there at the Maher Campus did everything they could to take care of us leading up to the day, during the event and afterward; the support was impressive.” - Valerie Schuette CP Federal Credit Union, vice president of operations

Booking is now available for corporate meetings, celebrations and holiday events. Dining services can be arranged with Continental Catering at Jackson College, or with a variety of local restaurants. “Our location offers convenient access. Let us know how we can help with your next meeting or event,” said Julie Hand, assistant dean of Maher Campus. Maher Campus offers free parking. For pricing and information, call 517.768.7097, or e-mail handjulier@jccmi.edu.

Culinary faculty, students learn about real Chinese cooking

Veterans officer brings wealth of experience to job

China is a nation steeped in tradition, and a group of Jackson College

Elizabeth Snell understands military life. After being a military spouse with a husband

students and faculty got a taste of their fine culinary tradition this

with nearly 14 years in the Marine Corps, she is now serving as the Veterans Affairs school

past summer.

certifying official at Jackson College.

Two Jackson College culinary arts instructors and three students visited

Snell knows what it is like to keep the home fires burning while her husband, Brian, was

China for nearly three weeks, gaining new insights into Chinese cooking

away. Over five deployments – Iraq (2), Japan (2), and Afghanistan, she did her best, but

and culture. Groups from Jackson College,

the family’s last move, from Detroit to Camp Pendleton, was particularly tough. Snell

Henry Ford Community College and the

missed her family and the career that she left back in Michigan. When her husband

University of Toledo visited Beijing, Qingdao,

returned from Afghanistan, she sought treatment to help with depression, and also began

Hangzhou and Shanghai. It was part of the

blogging to journal about her feelings. That led to others contacting her and saying they

PathPro Project, an exchange study program

had similar feelings. “I was not the only military spouse dealing with depression that might

that offers students from the U.S. the

be linked to the military lifestyle and the tempo of the military,” Snell said.

opportunity to gain hands-on experiences with Chinese peer students.

She took those difficult feelings and created a helping organization to support those left on the home front, the Military Spouses of Strength. The virtual non-profit group provides

Culinary Arts Instructor David Hooper said

information, support and offers strength to other military spouses who may be struggling

he was amazed by the time and detail the

with depression or mental illness. She designed a website that gives military spouses a

Chinese put into their cooking and culinary training, making sure to master

place to connect and find support. The group now focuses not only on mental health

every step. “It’s a tradition so rich, they will probably never lose it,” Hooper

but on a holistic approach of mind, body and spirit. She has also co-founded a non-

said. “Don’t believe all you see about a country, because it is so much richer

profit, Military Spouses of Michigan, offering military family support services including

and there is so much more than you can imagine.”

educational guidance, career development and legal assistance resources.

Students watched and

During the past few years, she has had the pleasure of meeting First Lady Michelle

participated in cooking

Obama, Dr. Jill Biden, numerous members of Congress, and military flag officers.

demonstrations, experienced

Snell was named Military Spouse of the Year 2015 for Camp Pendleton through Armed

Chinese hospitality and cultural

Forces Insurance and Military Spouse Magazine, Military Spouse of the Year Program; she

traditions, and visited some

has had the opportunity to write digital and print articles for the magazine.

scenic sites. They experienced cutting edge technology in some of the country’s finest hotels, and were treated to at least one authentic Chinese meal every day. Making the trip with Hooper was instructor Diane Newell, along with students Nikki Huntoon, Jason Slabinski and Stephen Trout. “It gave me a new way of looking at another culture,” said Slabinski. “It was a once-ina-lifetime opportunity. I got to see how cooking is done in China, which is different than Americanized Chinese food.” Slabinski is finishing up his associate degree in culinary arts and plans to continue his studies with the planned bachelor’s degree, currently work as kitchen manager at Knight’s Steakhouse in Jackson. He’s already put some of what he learned on the trip to work on his job. With a new bachelor’s degree in culinary arts and hospitality in the works for 2017, the trip also helped build relationships with the Chinese for future partnership opportunities. Plans are to include both local and international externship options.

Snell has worked with Jackson College since July, after her and her family moved back to Michigan. With her experience with the military and enjoyment of working with veterans and their families, the opportunity appealed to her. “It enables me to be empathetic to the various things they are experiencing and to help them,” Snell said. “I’m able to help them secure their VA benefits and resources as they pursue their education.”

Music instructor to perform his own work with Tecumseh orchestra Music instructor Stephen R. Murphy’s own musical journey will reach an exciting high point this May when he performs an original piano concerto with the Tecumseh Pops Orchestra. Murphy has composed a piano concerto on five themes entitled “The Journey: A Rhapsody for Piano & Orchestra.” The piece is dedicated to his and his wife Marcia’s son and daughter-in-law, Matt and Kerrin Smith, who are moving with their family to Cincinnati, Ohio – the start of many family journeys and visits to come!

Jackson College’s Annual Report – The President’s Report to the Community is now available online. Read about the news and highlights of the year 2015 at www.jccmi.edu/about/.

Beginning his own musical journey began at age 7 with piano lessons, Murphy’s teacher immediately noticed his gift when – at his second lesson – he was already able to transpose melodies in different key signatures. He began writing his own songs at age 11 or 12, and composing has been his passion ever since! He first attended then Jackson Community College as a student in 1989. He had taken a position as worship pastor at the Spring Arbor Church of the Nazarene and wanted to further his own music education. He completed his Associate in Arts in music at Jackson

College plants seeds for

agriculture education

A new agriculture program is taking root at Jackson College!

College, and then went on to Spring Arbor University where he completed his Bachelor of Arts in music, composition and voice. Bringing his church and music pursuits together,

Driven by a grass roots effort from the farming and agriculture business

he completed master’s and doctorate degrees in church ministry from Andersonville

community, College administration and faculty are developing new associate

Theological Seminary. He has performed with

degrees in agriculture to start in the fall. “We’ve talked to several in the

the Jackson Community Concert Band, and

community and in the tri-county area, and there is a demand for agriculture

accompanied college voice classes and choirs

education,” said Todd Butler, dean of arts and sciences.

for more than 20 years. He now teaches music understanding classes and has a successful private studio of piano and voice students in

Today’s farming and food production industries are diverse fields with a variety of career opportunities available.

Spring Arbor. Many of his compositions can

“I am excited to see the local leadership of the county farm bureaus, FFA and

be found online in the iTunes music store. And

Jackson College create a partnership to help our youth develop a career path

just two weeks ago, five of his original songs

to the industry of agriculture,” said Kim Kerr, south regional representative

were published by the JW Pepper

for the Michigan Farm Bureau. “The Jackson College agricultural program is

publishing company.

very relevant to the educational needs of today’s rural families. The program is

As worship pastor at his church, he has performed or seen several of his compositions performed, including choruses, anthems, contemporary pieces and more. This piano concerto, though, will be his first performance as featured soloist

locally driven by the agricultural leaders who want to create a natural pathway from local schools to Jackson College that does not saddle students with a mini-mortgage. Since Michigan agricultural is a $100 billion-plus industry, the Jackson College agricultural program is at the right place and right time to help provide local students the opportunity to succeed.” The program will offer two tracks, one an Associate of Science for students

with an orchestra. One of Murphy’s former students serves on the board for the Tecumseh

looking to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree program in agriculture, and

Pops Orchestra, and he mentioned the piece to her, and she took it to the board, “And

another track, an Associate of Applied Science, for those wanting to complete

the rest, they say, is history,” he adds.

a two-year degree then go to work in farming or agriculture-related business.

When asked what he enjoys more, teaching or performing, Murphy said he really can’t make a choice. “I love teaching, sharing music understanding with students. And I love performing. I have the best of both worlds.” Murphy will perform with the Tecumseh Pops Orchestra at 4 p.m. May 1, in the Tecumseh Center for the Arts. To learn more, visit www.thetca.org.

We Are Jackson College | Spring 2016

While curriculum is being developed, students will start with general studies and introductory courses like safety, introduction to food systems, introduction to plant and soil science, and introduction to animal science. Look for more information to come on this exciting new program!

Men of Merit, Sisters of Strength travel to Washington, D.C. Members of Jackson College’s Men of Merit and Sisters of Strength traveled to Washington, D.C. over spring break to visit the Capitol and landmarks and also tour Howard University. Students visited the Capitol building and met with Congressman Tim Walberg, and visited the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. They visited the Smithsonian Institution museums, toured Howard University, and participated in a Leadership Forum at their hotel. They also visited an elementary school to promote education. “This trip was outstanding on many levels,” said Lee Hampton, director of multicultural affairs. “This year’s response of students to visit such a historical and breathtaking place and hear the ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ from the students about the monuments and memorials, was priceless. We are forever grateful for this opportunity. This is one of the highlights of my year with the students.”

Jackson College students experience Ireland! Jackson College sent a group of 14 to Ireland over spring break for a study abroad experience! As part of Jackson Intercultural Communications class, this faculty led cultural and educational trip was presented in conjunction with the Institute of Study Abroad Ireland. It included daily informational breakfasts about Irish history and culture relating to the day’s field trip activities. Students were based in Bundoran in County Donegal along western Ireland’s Atlantic coast. They visited the counties of Dublin, Meath, Cavan, Fermanagh, Derry, Sligo, Mayo and Galway. “The study abroad experience helps students in personal and professional ways. There is nothing like separating yourself from everything familiar and going someplace you have never been. You begin to see the world through a different lens, and the experience writes on the slate of who you are,” said Dr. Becky Belter Roberts, communications professor who has led the trip the past two years. “In many ways it makes you grateful for what we have here in the US, and in some ways it helps you understand why other places do things differently.” Here the group is in Bundoran along Donegal Bay in an area known as the Fairy Bridges.

Jets basketball players net honors from MCCAA The Michigan Community College Athletic Association has announced Western Conference player awards for the 2015-16 basketball season. Congratulations to those being recognized! For the Jackson College Jets men, those honored include: • Tarae Potter, guard, All Region, All-MCCAA, First Team All-Conference, All-Freshman Team, Freshman Player of Year. Potter is a freshman who graduated from Jackson High School. • Charles Lawler, forward, Second Team All-Conference. Lawler is a sophomore who graduated from Albion High School. • Eldridge Mason, forward, Honorable Mention All-Conference. Mason is a sophomore who graduated from Lathrup High School in Southfield. • Matt Bullinger, forward, Honorable Mention All-Conference. Bullinger is a sophomore who graduated from Lumen Christi High School in Jackson. For the Jackson College Jets women, those honored include: • Chelsy Hall, guard/forward, Second Team All-Conference. Hall is a sophomore and graduate of Jackson High School. • Kennedi Showerman, forward, Third Team All-Conference. Showerman is a sophomore and graduate of Vandercook Lake High School. www.jccmi.edu

Hockey alumni hit the ice Donning their Golden Jets jerseys one more time, 16 former Jackson College hockey players gathered in December to face off in an alumni hockey game, maroon against white. It was just like old times for the players back on the ice at the Jackson Optimist Ice Arena. “The main thing was being back in the locker room with all the guys, telling old stories and sharing so many memories from the Golden Jets and Jets,” said Alex Kimberly, an alumnus, past player of the Golden Jets and later coach of the Jets team before it ended in 2007. “When we’re in the locker room, it seems like it was just yesterday.” Kimberly and former player and assistant coach Tyler Cataline organized the event to bring the players from the Golden Jets and later Jets teams back together. Players came from Jackson, Kalamazoo and Detroit, and a few from out of state. Most players are still playing or involved with hockey, some now coaching their children’s teams, some playing in the men’s leagues or acting as referees. Cataline coaches the club hockey team at Central Michigan University.

Women of Color Leadership Conference Jackson College will host a Women of Color Leadership Conference, Saturday, April 16 at the Jets Hangar on Central Campus, “It’s Your Time: Inspiring Leadership, Achievement and Self-Esteem.” This will be a time of networking and developing success strategies of women of color in the 21st Center. Keynote speaker will be Daphne C. Watkins, PhD., author and associate professor at the University of Michigan. Event is hosted by the Jackson College women’s leadership group, Sisters of Strength. The conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, with registration available from 8:15-8:45 a.m. Please RSVP to 517.796.8480. Any questions, contact Kelly Williams, assistant director of multicultural affairs.

Band grateful for Consumers Energy gifts The music is a bit sweeter for the Jackson Community Concert Band thanks to the help of the Consumers Energy Foundation. The Consumers Energy Foundation has generously made donations for the past several years to the Community Concert Band – comprised of both students and community members -- on behalf of their employees and retirees who participate. The Foundation grants money to foster community involvement, leadership and youth opportunities. “It’s our way of giving back to the community,” said Tom McKown, Consumers Energy network engineer and band member. “Here, we have adults working with youth in the band. It’s a way to encourage leadership and better our community.” Conductor Ron Douglass is grateful for the donations, which go into an unrestricted fund that he can use for any needs or plans that arise with the band. Funds have been used to invite guest artists to perform, purchase music or instruments, pay expenses related to the Front Porch Concert Series, hire musicians to fill in as needed, and more. “This allows us some flexibility with our budget, which is helpful as things happen with a concert band,” Douglass said. “It’s been a great help to the band; it really enhances our program.”

We Are Jackson College | Spring 2016

Center Updates HILLSDALE LETARTE CENTER So you’ve driven by Jackson College’s Clyde LeTarte Center in Hillsdale but aren’t really sure what is offered? Learn more about Hillsdale LeTarte Center in June The LeTarte Center will welcome all those who are interested to a “Getting Started” event in June. Exact date has not yet been set, but call the LeTarte Center at 517.437.3343 for more information, or check the webpage. www.jccmi.edu/hillsdale. Other coming events including orientation and course placement opportunities Wednesday, April 27, 9 a.m. orientation and 11 a.m. course placement, and Monday, May 16, 5 p.m. orientation and 6:30 p.m. course placement testing. Spring semester classes begin May 23, and fall semester begins Sept. 6.

forms of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, student loans and federal work-study.

skills and habits that bolster confidence and achievement.

Upcoming workshops will be: • March 24, 1-3 p.m. • July 13, 9-11 a.m. • April 20, 6-8 p.m.

Students (or mentees) are being recommended by high school counselors, community members and Mallory Frailing at Jackson College. Students will sign a participation agreement in order to commit to the program and be assigned a mentor. Interested community volunteers and students may contact FrailinMalloryN@jccmi.edu, or 517.265.5515.

Participants are asked to bring their 2015 federal tax returns, driver’s license or state identification, Social Security number, and information on savings, investments and assets. Please also bring your Department of Education FSA ID number (apply at fsaid.ed.gov prior to workshop). For those who are under 24, you may be required to provide tax information for both you and your parent(s) in the FAFSA. Contact the JC @ LISD TECH office to see if both sets of tax information are required.

Contact the LeTarte Center for more information 517.437.3343.

Maggie Fry, alumna – “The Hillsdale LeTarte Center changed my life. I felt that the staff was very helpful; if I had questions they were eager and willing to assist me in finding those answers. They wanted me to succeed and they gave me the tools I needed to do so. It has been influential in my family’s life to see what education through Jackson College has given me, and it has impacted the people in my family who now want to do the same.”

JACKSON COLLEGE @ LISD TECH Jackson College @ LISD TECH continues to reach out to students in Lenawee County with educational opportunity. Financial aid Learn more about financial aid available for college at upcoming workshops about filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Attend this workshop for information on the application process and other

Jenny Engle, alumna – Earned an accelerated business degree with Jackson College and Siena Heights University. “The foundation Jackson College provided was based on individual learning, with a cohort that worked and studied collaboratively. This not only helped me in my studies, but also in my career. Collaboration is a key component to success in the work place, and I am confident that my experience at Jackson gave me a great start for future success, both educationally and professionally.”

Mentoring The Jackson College Community Mentoring Program is now underway at Jackson College @ LISD TECH, with five students participating. The next group event, Networking and Career Exploration, will be from 6-8 p.m. April 19. The program seeks to provide select students help acclimating to college and remain in college to graduate, with the guidance of a volunteer mentor. Offered in partnership with the Lenawee College Access Network, mentors will help students throughout their freshman year to build an academic support network, strong social network with peers, become involved with college activities and promote

W.J. MAHER CAMPUS

Learn more about the opportunities and process for student financial aid at upcoming workshops at the W.J. Maher Campus. Student Success Navigator Melissa Potter is hosting Financial Aid Workshops each Tuesday 3-5 p.m. To make a reservation, please call 517.768.7097 or e-mail pottermelissae@jccmi.edu.

Jediah Biddinger, alumnus – “I like in that area of town, so the Maher Campus was really convenient for me, just give minutes from where I was living. I think it’s great that the College has different branches in different areas of the community. While the Central Campus is amazing, sometimes it’s more beneficial to have a location that is more accessible, especially in winter time.” • Advising hours have been extended. Hours now include Mondays, 9 a.m to 12 noon and Thursdays – 1-6 p.m. • Now is the time to schedule an advising appointment with Melissa Potter for spring and fall classes. To schedule an appointment, please call 517.768.7097 or e-mail pottermelissae@jccmi.edu • Maher Campus is hosting course placement and new student orientations for spring and fall classes. For dates and times, please contact the Maher Campus at 517.768.7097.

Best-selling author Walter Mosley coming to Jackson as part of new science fiction, fact and fun event, Concatenation Convention Concatenation: A series of interconnected or interdependent things or events

COLLEGE

The series is the brainchild of Professors Steven AlbeeScott and Steven Tuckey of Jackson College College and Jon Hart of Thunderhouse Productions and is a community partnership with the Jackson District Library, local school robotics teams, Nostalgia Ink, Meggacon, and the Jackson Makerspace. More details to come and will be available shortly at the Concatenation Convention Facebook page. Or, for more information, contact Thunderhouse Productions at 517.392.2942.

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Bringing together the worlds of science fiction with scientific fact, Jackson College joins with several community partners to present the fun & exciting Concatenation Convention community series over the next several months. A series of community events are planned to lead up to an October Convention. Events will culminate Oct. 15, 2016, at the Concatenation Convention, a place where Science Fact and Fiction Meet. Headlining the convention will be mystery and science fiction writer Walter Mosley, who will deliver a free keynote and book signing the day of the event. While Mosley is known most widely for his detective Easy Rawlins (“Devil in the Blue Dress”), he has penned a number of science fiction books such as “Blue Light,” “The Wave,” “Futureland,” “Silver Box” and “47,” a youth novel, which deal with several themes. The Jackson District Library is partnering with the Con Con to bring the author to the Jackson area, to help make classroom sets of “47” available to schools, and to provide copies of Futureland in greater quantities to accommodate community discussions.

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April

KANSAS AT POTTER CENTER Kansas has produced eight gold albums, three sextuplePlatinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, Best of KANSAS), one platinum live album (Two for the Show), and a million-selling gold single, “Dust in the Wind.” Tickets are $35, $32 and $28. For ticket information, visit www.jccmi.edu/events or call 517.796.8600.

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WOMEN OF COLOR LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE Jackson College will host a Women of Color Leadership Conference, Saturday, April 16 at the Jets Hangar on Central Campus, “It’s Your Time: Inspiring Leadership, Achievement and Self-Esteem.” See related story inside.

SPRING SEMESTER BEGINS – REGISTRATION UNDERWAY NOW! Registration is currently underway. Spring semester is a great time to pick up a class or two, for high school graduates to get a jump start on college, or for university students home for the summer to enroll in a class at their community college, a smaller setting with more personal attention. Visit www.jccmi.edu for course schedule.

STARRY, STARRY NIGHT FOUNDATION FUND RAISER Friday, August 26 is set for this year’s Jackson College Foundation Gala Fund Raiser – Starry, Starry Night Across America. Take a culinary journey from sea to shining sea. For information contact Cindy Gilmore cgilmore@jccmi.edu or call 517.787.0244.

FALL SEMESTER BEGINS Registration begins April 6, 7 & 8 for returning students, and April 9 for all students. • Students with 24 or more JC credits may register online April 6; • Students with 12 or more JC credits may register online April 7; • All returning students may register online April 8. New students may register after completing orientation. Call your preferred location for orientation times or to meet with a student success navigator or visit online at www.jccmi.edu.

Questions about Jackson College programs and services described in this publication should be directed to Student Services at 517.796.8425. Comments or questions about the publication can be directed to the Marketing Department at 517.796.8416. Publisher: Cynthia S. Allen • Editor: Dotty Karkheck • Writer: Marilynn Fryer • Graphic Design: Abbie Stein • Photography: JC Marketing

Board of Trustees Samuel R. Barnes, Chairman • John M. Crist, Vice Chairman • Sheila A. Patterson, Secretary • Donna L. Lake, Treasurer Matthew R. Heins, Trustee • Philip E. Hoffman, Trustee • Dr. Edward A. Mathein, Trustee • Dr. Daniel J. Phelan, President

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