Fall 2014
The MacCormac Quarterly
THE
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22Please see Great Articles on page 4
oi Volume 4
M AC C ORMAC N EWS MacCormac College, 29 East Madison Street, Chicago, IL 60602 312.922.1884
It Happens Here
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Fastest, shortest speed writer and Guinness World
It Happens Here
1
Record Holder Mark Kislingbury kicked off National
CAPPE
2
Court Reporting and Captioning Week by visiting MacCormac on February 18, 2014 and speaking to
Learn 2 Laugh 2014
3
Ask Dr. A
4
students, staff and working reporters. He was met by
Industry News
4
Court Reporting students who were anxious to hear
Agency Reception
4
him talk about his experience in the field, secrets to
110th
5
writing short and, most importantly, watch him
Career Corner
5
demonstrate the ability that won the World Record.
Student Program Spotlight
5
MC in the Community
6
Mark began both student lectures with a short 45
Save the Dates
6
second demonstration; typing over 220 words and
MC Mission & Values
6
making only four mistakes! Needless to say he
Don’t Forget
6
captured everyone’s attention. He continued
Commencement
to
describe his history in court reporting and how he became interested in
lecturing
the profession, drawing
conventions. He discussed what makes a good court
students in with his wit
reporter and speed champion, and spoke of the future
and humor. He stressed
of court reporting.
the necessity of briefing,
“We have a very strong future. Computers cannot
practicing three times a
match
day and letting go-don’t
MacCormac is graduating.”
a
at
many
good
court
national
reporter,
and
like
international
those
that
be afraid of writing messy. The seats in CAPPE were
Attendees
filled with students taking
were
notes and nodding at his
delighted
remarks on how difficult court reporting is.
to take photos
“I don’t have a great gift, I just worked really hard
and speak
and want to succeed,” Mark explained.
with Mark individually
The day’s capstone was the Presidential Lecture given
about his
by
successes
Kislingbury
at
4:00pm
in
CAPPE
to
board
members, working reporters and alumni among
and the profession following the lecture.
others. LeAnn Kibler, CART provider, captioned the entire session via overhead projector, adding another
The MacCormac College Presidential Lecture Series
dimension to the lecture. He touched upon his
presents accomplished scholars, executives, artists,
impressive
and community leaders to supplement the classroom
reporting;
background, closed
which
captioning
for
includes
court
major
sports
leagues, popular radio programs; award shows and
experience with real leadership and service.
life lessons on innovation,
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The MacCormac Quarterly
Introducing…
CAPPE
The Center for Academic, Personal and Professional Excellence (CAPPE) fosters a student-focused success center that offers innovative, holistic programming and services, enriching the student experience and empowering students to graduate and excel in the workforce. MacCormac College is committed to the academic
CAPPE is overseen by an excellent team of qualified staff
success of each student throughout their tenure here and
members who are dedicated to the success of all
as such has provided them with an exemplary teaching
MacCormac Students.
staff and up-to-date curriculum to ensure this is achieved upon graduation. However, the college is also motivated to encourage the development of the entire student: educationally; emotionally; spiritually; physically and professionally. It was on the essential idea of serving the whole student that President Alexis Stephens was inspired to create a center that encapsulates and enriches the student experience. MacCormac College launched CAPPE on February 18, 2014 and the program has seen tremendous growth in the past two semesters with students participating in seminars, Presidential Lectures and community service projects. CAPPE
has
five
broad
divisions
founded
on
the
development of the whole student, from acceptance to MacCormac through maturation into their chosen career and matriculation into the workforce. The five areas are focused on:
Mentoring
Tutoring
Wellness
Professional and Career Development
Continuing Education and Online Courses
There are many exciting activities scheduled each month under every division of CAPPE. On the calendar, students will find individual and specialized tutoring, professional services to provide career advice and mentoring, various seminars regarding physical and spiritual wellness while our online courses continue to evolve providing yet another platform for learning and obtaining your degree.
Students: Be sure to check your MacCormac email for the weekly schedule of activities and updates or special announcements regarding CAPPE. Each offer support to students through professional and personal seminars, education and personal enrichment.
The MacCormac Quarterly
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Learn 2 Laugh 2014 MacCormac College hosted the second annual Learn 2 Laugh comedy fundraiser on April 22, 2014 at the world-famous Laugh Factory to the delight of over 160 guests. Comedian, impressionist and actor James Stephens III took the stage again this year by popular demand and was joined by Chicago’s funniest one-woman show Jen Bosworth, and improv artist Mina Nyenke. The evening was hosted by ABC7’s Stacey Baca, who declared she wasn’t a comedian but gave a few astute one-liners throughout the show. Everyone gave an incredible performance and Ms. Baca kept the audience engaged and the comedians on track.
Learn 2 Laugh also included a silent auction and great dessert bar with items donated by Chick-fil-A, tesori restaurant and Alonti catering. MacCormac College raised over $37,000 through this fundraising event, all of which will be directly reinvested in the college to benefit the students through increased programming, technology development and scholarships. We’d like to thank our corporate sponsors who contributed to the evening: Jensen Litigation; Veritext; McCorkle litigation Services; Esquire Solutions; and Mueller CPA. It is through our generous benefactors that MacCormac can continue to grow and offer an exemplary education to its students.
For more event information and to stay updated on L2L 2015 visit www.maccormac.edu and follow MacCormac College on Facebook and Twitter. Contact Ashley Peck, Director of Communications and Public Relations, apeck@maccormac.edu or 312.922.1884 with questions or to discuss sponsoring L2L 2015.
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The MacCormac Quarterly
Ask Dr. A Q:
I’m a student here and see all
the activities going on in CAPPE but haven’t done anything yet. What can we expect to gain from attending things at CAPPE? How will it benefit me and what I want to do with my career?
A:
The CAPPE program and each of its branches provide
holistic programming to empower you to succeed.
Industry News: The Importance of ABA Approval MacCormac College has the proud distinction of offering the first Paralegal Studies program in the state of Illinois; and when students enroll in the program they are not only enrolling in the first Paralegal Studies program in the state but also one that is approved by the American Bar Association. The ABA is one of the largest voluntary professional membership organizations in the world, offering legal counsel with vast resources and strict guidelines for education.
Specifically, you can expect to gain focused one-on-one support in the form of tutoring for your classes, mentoring from professionals, lectures and seminars on areas of such as finance and industry. CAPPE also prepares you to enter the workforce through help with writing cover letters and your resume to interview skills and how to dress. CAPPE is the place every student can go to find information, prepare for graduation, listen to speakers and so much more. CAPPE also provides counseling services and wellness activities through spiritual activities and emotional support.
Agency Reception On December 9, 2013 MacCormac held its first Court Reporting Agency Reception, welcoming agency owners from across Chicagoland to mix and mingle with faculty, staff, administration and the Board of Trustees.
The ABA reviews all paralegal and legal programs and offers
approval
to
only
those
that
pass
its
strict
guidelines. Those who receive approval gain legitimacy and ‘street cred’ from agencies and law firms. This also means
students
can
expect
to
receive
a
more
comprehensive legal education. This
approval
curriculum
in
translates
into
the
standard
with
other
most
up-to-date
ABA
approved
institutions. The association takes great pains to make sure the schools they approve are at the forefront of all legal technology and terminology- no one will fall behind or lose pace with the rest; thus is the rigor of being an ABA approved educational institution. What does this mean for you? Of course it means that as a student of MacCormac you are receiving first-class paralegal education that meets the standards set forth by an [Photo of MacCormac foyer decorated for reception]
The evening was an excellent opportunity for working reporters who may not have been previously familiar with the college to visit MacCormac’s campus while it was decorated for Christmas and meet our staff. This was the first in what will be an annual reception to encourage camaraderie in the court reporting profession.
esteemed
board.
Graduating
from
MacCormac’s
Paralegal Studies ABA approved program gives you more opportunities for employment because you have more clout with those three letters supporting your degree. Want to know more about the American Bar Association? Visit www.americanbar.org or ask Mr. Dave Grassi, Program Director for Paralegal Studies.
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The MacCormac Quarterly
110th Commencement MacCormac’s 110th graduation ceremony took place on May 9th at the Mid-America Club. Graduation is a
Her words resonated with many students who walked across the stage to receive their diplomas and will continue to provide reassurance throughout their professional careers.
very exciting event every year; recognizing students in all programs who have achieved their goals and are at the finish line- ready to enter the workforce. We commend all our graduates and were excited to host our 110th graduation ceremony to a crowded ballroom on the 80th floor of the Aon Building. MacCormac welcomed special guest Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle as commencement speaker. She took the stage to deliver strong, inspiring words to the graduating class as they received their associate’s degrees and moved to become Chicago’s next leaders. “You can’t underestimate the value of dedication and hard work,” Preckwinkle said.
Career Corner:
Student Program Spotlight
Reporter– Official full-time court reporter needed for the 19th Judicial Circuit, Waukegan, Illinois.
Position will
cover a variety of criminal, civil and juvenile cases. Full state benefit package included. Illinois CSR is required. Starting salary range is $37,440 to $42,440.
Apply at
www.illinoisofficialcourtreporters.com/vacancies.
Student Ambassadors MacCormac is seeking students who are outgoing, show a deep commitment to the college, can motivate others and are eager to share all the great things MacCormac has to offer.
Student
Ambassadors
Admissions
Team
provide
and
the
assistance entire
to
the
MacCormac
Community. They are leaders and representatives of Litigation
clerk,
MacCormac and are expected to uphold the ideals and
responsibilities include assisting paralegal with major
Clerk-
Temporary
litigation
mission of the College at both outreach programs and
case/large document case projects throughout all phases
events held on campus.
including trial preparation among other duties. Visit http://www.chameleonis.com/careers/ to apply or for more information. Security
and
training programs, contribute to the Ambassador blog, attend outreach events including Open Houses, off-
Specialist-
employees
Ambassadors participate in monthly meetings and
Provides
security
visitors. Protects
for
hospital
patients, buildings,
assets and premises. Reports safety and/or fire hazards
campus visits and more. There are incredible benefits for those who represent MacCormac well and show what the college is made of
or security violations. Participates in investigations;
as Student Ambassadors:
maintains records and prepares incident reports and
Uniforms are provided and a killer Student Ambassador
other documents pertinent to security activities. Contact
party is held every semester. Don’t forget about the
St. Anthony Hospital for more information and to apply.
service-based scholarship and awesome networking opportunities as well as adding the experience to your
Marketing- Entry level associate with growth potential. Responsibilities include team leadership in marketing strategies and sales, overseeing campaign development, managing customer service and account acquisition. To apply or for more information on this job contact careers@chicagomarketinginc.com.
resume! Students need to maintain a 2.75 GPA and receive a faculty recommendation to be eligible. Please see an admissions team member for more information.
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The MacCormac Quarterly
MC in the Community
Save the Dates:
MacCormac sponsored eight Court Reporting students to attend the NCRA conference in San Francisco July 31August 3, 2014. This was a pivotal point in their college careers as this is the largest annual professional gathering of working reporters and industry leaders and the students were able to make valuable connections and learn of the latest trends and newest technology.
Event: Presidential Lecture: Steve Zinone Date: September 11th 2014 11-12:15 pm Event: Hour of Power Date: November 7th 2014 6-7:30pm Event: Career Week Date: November 10-14th 2014 Event: President’s Closet Date: November 20-21st 2014 Event: Finals Date: December 8-15th 2014
Volunteer
opportunities
are
available
for
Paralegal
Studies students at the Federal Bankruptcy Court Help Desk. Volunteering at a professional association in your
Don’t forget:
activities and updates; contact
career field benefits you in a multitude of ways, namely
CAPPE@maccormac.edu or Ms. Dzielawa with
providing valuable experience and tremendous contacts
questions.
that you can use when searching for a job after graduation.
To
apply
for
this
opportunity
Bankruptcy Court you must be a
2nd
at
the
year Paralegal
Look in your MacCormac email for all CAPPE
If you plan to graduate this year, remember to contact
student. See Mr. Grassi for more details.
the
Registrar,
Mariza
Silva
at
MSilva@maccormac.edu to fill out the required paperwork.
MacCormac Mission &Values MacCormac’s mission is to provide a transformative
to receive assignments and announcements from
educational experience to its diverse student body in an
instructors, administration and the college.
environment that encourages, empowers, and nurtures students and promotes learning.
We value and hold
administration and students the following:
Check your MacCormac College email every day
Follow MacCormac College on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook to receive program updates, news, photos of current events,
A dedication to student success
A commitment to academic excellence
The practice of community service and volunteerism
The promotion of leadership and collaboration
A respect for diversity
upcoming activities and more!