ALBANY TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Annual Report 2012 for the
Real World Training for the
Real World Workforce.
Letter from our President Training Our Students for the Workforce and Beyond Dear ATC Supporter: As we close another year and begin a new one, let’s not forget why Albany Technical College is here and why technical education is leading the way to a better-trained workforce in more ways than one. One of our biggest accomplishments in 2012 was the renovation on our labs for Hotel/Restaurant/Tourism Management and Marketing Management, as well as our Academic Achievement Center and the new Campus Bookstore. The new HRT and MM labs will afford these students the training they need to be as effective as they can in their respective industries. With the same token, our new Academic Achievement Center will be able to expand on their tutoring services, while offering a small library option and iStudio rooms equipped with iPads for individual study in program areas they need help in. We are extremely proud of our beautiful new bookstore, which will allow us to serve many more students at once than our previous space did. The hands-on training is still the number one criteria setting us and technical education apart from the rest. With the extensive labs on our campus, as well as a wealth of internships available with area employers, our graduates are well prepared and ready for the workforce before they even secure employment. In addition to training, we also teach our students work ethics. We believe that these soft skills are just as important as training in the workplace and we take pride in the fact that these work ethics are incorporated into all of our programs to provide our students with a well-rounded education. Another topic I’d like to mention to you is Albany Tech’s participation in the Achieving the Dream National Reform Network. It is through our part in Achieving the Dream that we will be able to analyze student issues existing in our community and work on ways to improve in areas needing improvement. I hope that you will join me in this initiative for both this college and our community. As always, thank you for the support you gave us in 2012. With your help, we continue to make careers and stories of success possible for the many Southwest Georgians we serve. Sincerely,
Dr. Anthony O. Parker President
Albany Tech Selected GOAL Winner to Represent College
Albany Technical College selected Ivey Norton, dental assisting student, to be the GOAL winner the annual Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) for 2012. The final four out of the 13 nominees included: Rolanda Bailey (Business Logistics Management); Ivey Norton (Dental Assisting); Kayla Robinson (Computer Information Systems); and Reginald Sweet (Early Childhood Care and Education). All 13 nominees included: Susie Clyde (Masonry); Ivey Norton (Dental Assisting); Reginald Sweet (Early Childhood Care & Education); Christopher Wright (Business Administrative Technology); Rolanda Bailey (Business Logistics Management); Quitia Malone (Business Logistics Management); Tamala Arnett (Dental Assisting); Kimberly Lawson (Drafting Technology); Shirley Henry (Marketing Management); Rodney Thornton (Accounting Technology); Amanda Taylor (Radiologic Technology); Kayla Robinson (Computer Information Systems); and Priscilla Williams (Marketing Management). All 13 nominees were honored at a banquet on Tuesday, January 31, 2012 in the Kirkland Conference Center at Albany Tech. They were presented with certificates. The GOAL program recognizes exceptional technical college students from across the state for their academic excellence and personal achievement. The program also spotlights the important role of technical training in our economy.
U.S. Coast Guard Academy Officials Visited Albany Tech
January
Albany Technical College received a visit from Rear Admiral Sandra Stosz with the U.S. Coast Guard Academy on January 11th. She was accompanied by Lt. Lindsey Seniuk, Military Aide, and Master Chief Lloyd Pierce, Command Master Chief. The purpose of the visit was to preview the Engineering Technology programs offered by Albany Technical College. Those programs included Civil Engineering Technology, Electromechanical Engineering Technology, and Telecommunications Engineering Technology. The group had the opportunity to visit the labs for each of the programs and see a hands-on demonstration. In addition to Albany Tech, U.S. Coast Guard officials also visited Georgia Military College in Milledgeville, as well as Marion Military Institute in Alabama.
Albany Tech Held Winter Commencement Ceremony
Albany Technical College held its Winter Commencement ceremonies for Winter graduates on January 20th at the Albany Civic Center. Almost 100 students received associate degrees; more than 300 diplomas; more than 30 technical certificates of credit; and more than 150 received their GED. This was the first graduation to take place under the semester system. Keynote speaker for the evening ceremony was Dr. Linda ThomasGlover, president of Eastern Shore Community College in Virginia. Prior to becoming the fourth president of Eastern Shore Community College, ThomasGlover served as Provost/Chief Academic Officer at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College in Kentucky. She has spearheaded the development of new instructional programs and also developed and conducted workforce training. She has also demonstrated successes in establishing and strengthening partnerships with K-12 and transfer institutions and worked successfully to strengthen ties to business and industry and community partners. Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012 | 2
February
ATC Drafting Student Wins Design Competition
An Albany Technical College drafting student was recognized on February 9th in the drafting technology lab on campus as the winner of a design competition held through an internship with ASM Sheet Metal, Inc. Last year, Vince Dettore, VP of Marketing and Product Development for ASM Sheet Metal, Inc. and Drawdy Outdoor Brands met with Chinelo Ochie, chairperson for the drafting program at Albany Technical College, to begin an internship for students. At the same time, there was a discussion to hold a design contest with drafting students for a product ASM Sheet Metal, Inc. needed designed. The product was a deer feeder. Dettore presented specs and design requirements to the participating students.“The winning design was based on functionality, structural integrity, durability and cost effectiveness,” said Dettore. “Justin 3 | Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012
Howard actually delivered a design that was surprisingly different than any other designs submitted by drafting students. Sheet Metal continues to test and analyze the winning designs to determine the marketability,” added Dettore. “At Albany Technical College, we are continually adapting our curriculum to industry standard in order to provide a customized education for employers,” said Ochie. “We are constantly looking for businesses and industries to provide internship opportunities to allow our students to gain hands-on experience,” added Ochie. The winning student was presented with a $50 gift card from ASM Sheet Metal’s Vince Dettore.
ATC Hosted Education Partners Workshop
Albany Technical College held its annual High School Partners Workshop on February 3rd. The purpose of this event was to provide information to high school counselors, technical education directors, graduation coaches and other high school officials in an effort to encourage high school students to consider technical education. Special speakers included: Dr. Elizabeth Ragsdale with the Second Congressional District State Board of Education, who spoke on “Careers Through Education” and Emmett Griswold, Dean of Academic Affairs at Albany Technical College, who spoke on “Go Build Georgia” programs through Albany Tech. Attendees had the opportunity to tour occupational areas and learn
about existing and new program offerings at Albany Tech. Specific tour areas for the afternoon included: the Center of Excellence in Electronics and Information Technology, Civil Engineering Technology, Electronics, Telecommunications, and Drafting.
Emerson Foundation Presented Scholarship Check to Albany Tech Foundation
On February 8th, the Albany Tech Foundation accepted a $500 scholarship donation from the Emerson Electrical Foundation. The Emerson Electrical Foundation is made up of about a dozen former Albany Tech students and faculty members who studied electrical systems under former instructor Willie Emerson. They asked for the scholarship dollars to go to deserving industrial electrical, air conditioning technology or electrical construction and maintenance students. The scholarships will pay for tuition, fees, books and tools. “We gladly accepted the generous gift,” said Dr. Parker, President of Albany Tech. “The scholarships will allow students, who may not have had enough money to attend college, to learn a skill that is in high demand in southwest Georgia. There’s a critical shortage of electricians and air conditioning techs, and the students who receive this scholarship will surely find employment as soon as they graduate.” Emerson taught at ATC from 1961 to the mid-1990s. He also founded the college’s first basketball team.
Heglar Received Chair Academy Award
Albany Technical College’s Retired Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, Pam Heglar, received an International Exemplary Leader award from the Chair Academy. Heglar received the award during an awards ceremony held during the Chair Academy’s Leadership Conference at the Sheraton Atlanta. Heglar worked in education for over 30 years. She came to Albany Tech over five years ago from Hillsborough Community College in Tampa, Florida, where she served as the Director of Student Services. While at Albany Tech, Heglar cultivated and supported partnerships leading to increased student recruitment, retention, and graduation. She also reorganized a crossdepartmental Enrollment Management team; implemented a “One-Stop Shop” student services model; and created a Student Tracking And Retention Services (STARS) student advisement system. Implementation of Nemo Q and Degree Works IT were also a result of her strong leadership and commitment to student success. “I am honored by this award,” said Heglar. “It has been a joy and a privilege to work with a great administration team, faculty and staff. I am inspired daily by the awesome students we serve, and by their courage and commitment. My colleagues make my work easier and the students make it worthwhile,” she added. Recipients of the Chair Academy’s International
Exemplary Leader Awards are nominated by their colleagues in recognition of their exemplary leadership, their demonstrated best leadership practices, and their commitment to their institutions, departments, teams, and the students they serve. Heglar was nominated by a member of her team, Lisandra DeJesus, who now serves as the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at Albany Tech.
ATC “Roasted” Dr. John Culbreath During Annual Albany Tech Foundation Fundraiser
On March 16th, the Albany Technical College Foundation held their annual Roast in the Kirkland Conference Center on the college campus. The College “roasted” retired educator and former Dougherty County School Superintendent, Dr. John Culbreath. A silent auction was also held in the Conference Center atrium. Throughout his career, Dr. Culbreath has been a teacher, an assistant principal, and an assistant and associate superintendent. He retired in June 2001 after serving for
March
six years as the superintendent of the Dougherty County School System. He has been named “Administrator of the Year” by the Georgia Association of Education Office Personnel, “School and Community Leader of the Year” by the Georgia School Public Relations Association, and “Man of the Year” by the local March of Dimes, just to name a few. Dr. Culbreath has been awarded the Excellence in Educational Leadership Award by the University Council for Educational Administration and is the recipient of the Albany Rotary Club Four-Way Test Award. Recently, the Georgia Association of Education Leaders (GAEL) awarded him the H.M. Fullbright Distinguished Service Award at its 2007 summer conference. Gamma Omicron Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. named Culbreath Alpha Man of the Year for 2007 and he is the recipient of the Ed Freeman Leadership Award from Leadership Albany, Inc. Roasters for the evening included: Kenneth Cutts, District Director, Albany Office, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.; Dr. John I. Davis, Principal, South Georgia Regional Achievement Center; Dr. Kimberly Fields, SPED Coordinator and Assistant Professor, College of Education, Albany State University; Dr. Wilburn Campbell, Retired Dean, College of Education, Albany State University; and Dr. Anthony O. Parker, President of Albany Technical College.
Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012 | 4
March / April
ATC Hosted Annual Faith-Based Luncheon
Albany Technical College hosted the seventh annual workshop and luncheon for area clergy on March 8th. The theme for the luncheon was “Strengthening the Community ~ One Family at a Time.” The purpose of this event was to provide information to clergy in our community about educational choices at Albany Tech, financial aid options and employment opportunities available to graduates. “We understand the important role ministers play in the lives of our students,” said Pamela Heglar, Executive Vice President and Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “It is these people who shape our students’ character and encourage them to take advantage of education and better their lives. With the help of our local clergy, we can strengthen the Southwest Georgia community – one family at a time.” Guest speaker for the event was Rev. Lawrence Knighton, Pastor of St. James Baptist Church in Baconton. In addition, several student testimonials were presented by Albany Tech students and the Albany Tech Chorus also performed. 5 | Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012
ATC Drafting Students Presented Drawings to The Parks at Chehaw
students who worked on the flamingo gardens project drawings for Chehaw included: Edrian Mallory (associate degree architectural drafting student); Garrin Harvey (associate degree architectural drafting student); and Joshua Johnson (diploma student with dual concentration in architectural and mechanical drafting). Albany Tech will continue working with Chehaw Park to provide drawings for other projects, which include an aussie beer garden, kangaroo-emu outback walk-thru exhibit, outdoor flight cage and wandering path, and serval cage.
The drafting technology program at Albany Technical College were asked earlier in the year by Chehaw Park to provide some drawings for solicitation of donation dollars to build exhibits. The final drawings were presented to Chehaw Park on April 11th. Students in the Albany Tech drafting program completed drawings of the first project, which includes new flamingo gardens. The goal was to expand the existing exhibit and add height for cage perching. The new exhibit will reduce the number of exterior ATC Held Annual Spring Career Fair doors, add a double door system to the two remaining doors, add a deep end pool and a second feed and drain pool. “We are excited to partner with Chehaw Park in providing these drawings,” said Chinelo Ochie, drafting technology chairperson and instructor at Albany Technical College.
Every program of study at Albany Tech is designed to give students as much hands-on experience as possible in preparing them for the workforce. “Every semester, my classes work on a project in the community,” said Ochie. Albany Tech
Over 50 southwest Georgia employers participated in the Fourteenth Annual Spring Career Fair on April 12th. The Career Fair is a great opportunity for Albany Tech students to speak with employers and learn about various companies and career opportunities. Employers accepted resumes, offered information about employment opportunities and conducted interviews for internships, part-time and full-time positions.
ATC Signed Articulation Agreement with Albany State University
Albany Technical College and Albany State University announced its new Fire Science Technology partnership on May 8th. The memorandum of understanding will make it easier for ATC graduates of the Fire Science Technology program to transfer credit hours to the bachelor of applied science program in Fire Services Administration at Albany State University. In January, the Board of Regents approved a new Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Fire Services Administration at Albany State University based on the demand by fire service organizations for positions in management, administration, and executive leadership roles. The new degree program is designed to meet the demand for skilled firemen throughout the country. ASU will provide substantial course credits to ATC students who have completed the associate’s degree. “The College of Business is thrilled to once again partner with Albany Technical College to provide students with continuing educational opportunities at the bachelor’s level,” said Dr. Fidelis Ikem, Dean of ASU’s College of Business. “This agreement epitomizes ASU’s mantra ‘Potential. Realized.’ We welcome all Fire Science Associate Degree holders from ATC, and look forward to working with them during fall 2012 admissions and class registration,” he added. Since its inception, ATC’s Fire Science Technology program has addressed the foundational
needs of students in the field of fire science. However, to expand their knowledge beyond the associate’s degree level, students are forced to seek classes outside of Georgia. The new agreement provides students the opportunity to not only remain in Georgia, but also in Albany to further their career. At Albany Tech, students can become National Professional Qualified (NPQ) firefighters; then upon employment earn an associate degree in Fire Science Technology, which leads to a job promotion as a fire officer. With an ASU bachelor’s degree in Fire Service Administration, fire officers can advance to become a fire chief or hold other top administrative positions in the department. “This is a prime example of continuing education and workforce development working together to improve the delivery of fire services,” said Don Laye, Fire Science Technology program chairperson at Albany Technical College.
ATC Joined Achieving the Dream National Reform Network
Signifying a strong commitment to student success and completion, Albany Technical College was one of 26 institutions selected, this year, into the Achieving the Dream National Reform Network – the nation’s most comprehensive non-governmental reform network for
May
student success in higher education history. Albany Technical College began immediately to identify strategies to close achievement gaps and increase student retention, persistence, and completion rates. “This new cohort of colleges will collectively help 275,000 students succeed,” said Beverly Fletcher, Senior Director of Organizational Development and Change for Achieving the Dream. “And the success of each student means much more than just a personal goal secured. It means improved skills, better employability, and economic growth for their community and our nation as a whole.” As an Achieving the Dream Institution, Albany Technical College will develop and implement researchbased policies and practices based on quantitative and qualitative analyses of its institutional strengths, problem areas, and achievement gaps. Albany Tech is committed to assessing the effectiveness of these policies and practices, institutionalizing the approaches that prove successful, and sharing the findings widely. Through Achieving the Dream, Albany Tech will have the opportunity to learn from other Achieving the Dream Institutions, and receive assistance from experienced practitioners in building a culture of evidence campus-wide, using data to identify problems, setting priorities, and measuring progress toward increasing student success.
Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012 | 6
May / June
ATC Opened Titans Café
Albany Technical College opened its newly designed Titans Café on May 21st in the Student Center of the Logistics Education Center. The Titans Café was launched about two years ago on the campus in Freedom Hall as part of a joint endeavor between the Culinary Arts and Marketing Management program at Albany Tech. The new Student Center and Culinary Arts facility in the Logistics Education Center, which opened in June of 2010, has made way for the Café to expand its operations. The new café offers an expanded menu to include daily specials and a wide variety of items. Customers are now able to place requests for made-to-order food items, as well as orders from the grill. “Our new café will provide a much needed service to our students who may travel to campus via the city transit system or who are dropped off and unable to travel off campus for lunch or snacks,” said Mary Richardson, Director of Athletics and Student Activities at Albany Tech. During spring semester, a new manager for the café was retained, Mr. Willie Layfield, who comes to Albany Tech with much experience in the restaurant industry. 7 | Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012
ATC Presented MDMC Albany With Local Manufacturer of the Year Award
Albany Technical College presented the Marine Corps Logistics Command’s Marine Depot Maintenance Command (MDMC) with a Manufacturer of the Year award on June 25th. Earlier in the year, Albany Tech nominated MDMC for the state Manufacturer of the Year in the Large Industry category. MDMC was recognized by the State of Georgia during Manufacturers Appreciation Week and a luncheon in Atlanta with Governor Deal during that week. Although MDMC was not the state winner this year, Albany Tech still recognizes them as our local winner. As a vital educational partner in southwest Georgia, Albany Technical College has developed diploma and degree programs in Business Logistics Management to provide employees for MDMC. In addition, Albany Tech ramped up training in their welding program when MDMC needs professionals who are specifically trained with skills to retrofit war-fighting equipment. “Albany Technical College is pleased to provide this honor to MDMC and looks forward to our continued partnership in years to come. With this honor, we hope to demonstrate the level of support we should all share in this community for this vital partner,” said Dr. Anthony Parker, President of Albany Technical College. The mission of the Marine Depot Maintenance Command is to provide innovative worldwide maintenance repairs and technical services for ground combat,
combat support and developmental projects which plays a vital role in our military’s sustainment infrastructure.
ATC Accepted Scholarship Check from AT&T
The Albany Technical College Foundation was presented with a $3,000 scholarship donation on June 4th by AT&T District Director, Courtney Brinson. “We are pleased to provide the scholarship donation again this year to Albany Tech and know it is needed now more than ever,” said Courtney Brinson, AT&T District Director. “We are very appreciative of AT&T and their donations to help our students,” said Dr. Anthony Parker, President of Albany Tech. AT&T presented Albany Tech Foundation with a scholarship donation of $3,000 just last November. The college has received almost $70,000 from AT&T in the past five years. The money goes toward the college’s general scholarship fund to help students in need.
June / July
ATC Held First Robotics Camp
the support of several Computer Information Systems instructors. Through joint enrollment options at Albany Tech, high school students can participate in the SASET project. Their participation enables them to take selected classes free while still in high school. The program is also accessible to non-traditional students as well.
As part of a $2.4 million grant received last year by the Department of Education, Albany Technical College held a Summer Robotics Camp to encourage students to pursue careers in the areas of Engineering Technology via the SASET (Students Achieving Success in Engineering Technology) Project. The 10-week program was designed to encourage students to use their analytical and critical thinking skills as they learn to build robots through troubleshooting and solving problems using their hands and minds. “I continue to be amazed at how well the students are doing,” said Michelle Lilly, SASET Project Director at Albany Technical College. “The majority of the students came into the program with little or no exposure to Robots, and now they are working collaboratively in teams building a VEX Robot with components they are seeing for the first time. We are really proud of the students’ focus and a willingness to think outside the box,” Lilly added. The students were coached by the Electromechanical, Telecommunications, and Civil Engineering Technology department chairs, and received
ATC Cut Ribbon on Academic Achievement Center
Albany Technical College cut the ribbon on its newly designed Academic Achievement Center (AAC) on July 17th. The AAC was initially created as part of a Title III Grant Albany Tech received in 2009 to focus on the initiatives in the college’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), which is called DREAMS (Developing Reading Excellence and Maximizing Success). However, since its inception, the AAC has expanded its services to include other areas students are needing assistance in, including Mathematics, English, and several other specialized services. The new AAC was created to fulfill the need to offer specialized learning centers targeting Learning Support students in Reading, Mathematics, and English, but all in one Center instead of scattered over the campus. Within the new AAC, separate labs exist for each discipline staffed with highly qualified specialists. Learning Support students utilize the AAC to supplement their class activities by using a variety of hands-on and online methods. Supplemental Instruction (SI)
provides academic support intervention that incorporates both instructor and peer assisted study sessions. The SI service targets both foundational courses, as well as other course in which students may be experiencing difficulty. The Retention division of the AAC provides counseling and assistance helping students overcome barriers to academic success. The newly designed AAC is now able to provide expanded services to the students served. The ultimate goal of the new Center is to build a “village” of support for all ATC students. In addition to serving the needs of Learning Support students in the areas of Reading, English, and Mathematics, the new Center also provides existing aspiring degree students with an emphasis on college Algebra. The Center houses new iStudy hotspots with specialized apps to help students achieve success in Algebra. In addition, the Center will offer supplemental instruction for targeted courses such as Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, and Psychology. These services are also available in the iStudy hotspots, which are loaded with high-end academic applications. The AAC provides a “Village Branch” of Albany Tech’s Anthony O. Parker, Ph.D. Library to include complete access to the EBSCOhost eBook and database resources, complete access to Georgia Pines online library collection, and reference manuals for English, Math, and Computer Applications. Some subject-specific DVD collections will also be available for checkout. Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012 | 8
July
ATC Received Dollar General and USDA Grants
Albany Technical College received two grants to help with the GED testing changes and medical program equipment purchases. One is from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation in the amount of $10,000 and the other is a USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grant in the amount of $54,000. This academic year, GED® testing in Georgia will transition to a computer-based test format. The Dollar General Literacy Foundation Grant will provide computer literacy skills to students that are enrolled in Albany Tech’s Adult Education programs, which will enable a successful completion of the new requirements for the computerbased GED® test. “These funds will assist students to gain computer skills to be successful with the new computer-based GED® Test,” said Linda Coston, Associate Vice President of Adult Education at Albany Technical College. “The new test will require students to type the essay, as well as use basic functions such as drop and drag, point and click. Tests are timed and students must have the ability to type at a rate of speed when completing the essay to complete the test. The assistance from this grant will help students gain basic computer knowledge,” added Coston. The USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grant will allow Albany Tech to purchase equipment that will train students in the acute care medical scenarios utilizing Human Patient Simulators in the Practical Nursing, 9 | Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012
Medical Assisting, and other Allied Health programs. Since the healthcare field is evolving and requiring higher critical thinking skills, Albany Tech is staying abreast of the changes by increasing its technology-savvy experience for nursing students. The USDA Grant will allow the program to purchase a computerized life-like METIMan mannequin for its upcoming simulation lab. The mannequin will be able to mimic body functions such as bleeding, breathing, blood pressure and heart rate, as well as corresponding patient responses. With these mannequins, the students are able to make mistakes and learn from them, as well as practice procedures multiple times so they can review their decisions and techniques. Students will have the ability to train for situations and health conditions that may not present themselves during a clinical learning situation. “Simulation technology has enabled nursing instructors to create new and better methods of teaching and reinforcing evidence-based practices for nursing students,” said Schvon Bussey, Nursing instructor at Albany Technical College. “We are happy to provide our students with the opportunity to use a high-tech mannequin for real world experiences,” Bussey added.
ATC Presented Mars Chocolates With Local Manufacturer of the Year Award Albany Technical College presented
Mars Chocolate North America, Albany Plant, with a Manufacturer of the Year award on July 18th.
Earlier in the year, Albany Tech nominated Mars Albany for the state Manufacturer of the Year in the medium-sized company category. Mars Albany was recognized by the State of Georgia during Manufacturers Appreciation Week and a luncheon in Atlanta with Governor Deal during that week. Although Mars Albany was not the state winner this year, Albany Tech still recognizes them as our local winner. “Albany Technical College is pleased to provide this honor to Mars, Albany Plant, and looks forward to our continued partnership in years to come. With this honor, we hope to demonstrate the level of support we should all share in this community for this vital partner,” said Dr. Anthony Parker, President of Albany Technical College. As a vital educational partner in Southwest Georgia, Mars provides opportunities for Albany Tech graduates to land careers as industrial maintenance technicians at the plant. In 2006, an initiative known as Lean Manufacturing was implemented
between Albany Tech and Mars. The initiative involved the continuous evolution of operating principles and manufacturing processes to save time and money and to advance product quality. Associates in this program continue to be taught skills and a shared way of thinking, which systematically drives out waste. In addition, a Manufacturing Excellence Training Program in coordination with Albany Tech evolved in 2007. Courses range from decision-making and root cause analysis, to mechanical troubleshooting and computer skills. Continuing education for Mars associates continues to thrive between the Albany Plant and Albany Tech. “Albany Technical College was pleased to nominate Mars Chocolate North America for the statewide Manufacturer of the Year award and to recognize them as our Manufacturer of the Year here in our service delivery area. We appreciate and value the partnership that we have with Mars and look forward to a continued relationship as we assist the company in meeting their workforce needs,” said Matt Trice, Vice President of Economic Development at Albany Technical College. The Albany site for Mars Chocolate North America continues to contribute to the Georgia economic base through providing a secure future for the associates at their site. During 2007-2008, the company reinvested in their Combos® line and made the plant infrastructure improvements of $6 million. In 2009, they upgraded their Nut Plant Systems and Combos® processes
July / August
and reinvested in their Marathon® Bar line for a total of $7 million. In 2010, they expanded their Combos® snacks line to create a new Buffalo Blue Cheese. The pretzel flavor won a national product of the year award. In 2011, they hired 59 associates from the surrounding communities totaling over $2.9 million. These activities were all completed while the Albany associates continue to work efficiently while driving down costs. “It is indeed an honor and a privilege for Mars Chocolate North America Albany Plant to be selected as a nominee for 2012 Manufacturer of the Year. As a long-time community member and winner of the award in 2007, our Mars associates are once again very proud to be recognized for this esteemed award in the state of Georgia,” said Kelvin Graham, Supply Chain Director at Mars Chocolate North America Albany, GA.
ATC Launched Associate Degree Nursing Program
from the community wanting to get information on the admission/entrance requirements,” said Mattie Buchannon, Dean of the Health Care Technology division at Albany Technical College. “Our program is designed to assist those interested persons to pursue their goals of becoming a Registered Nurse. We built our program based on some of the successful models that we have seen, while not destroying the goals of any entity in our region.” “We are excited to help alleviate the nursing shortage and health disparities in our community by providing well-trained registered nurses,” said Schvon Bussey, MSN, ARNP, FNP-C, Program Chair for the new program at Albany Tech. Albany Tech has submitted a prospectus by its accrediting board, to the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), on this program and anticipates approval within the next few months. The traditional track for the program will be six semesters.
Albany Technical College was given provisional approval by the Georgia Board of Nurses to accept students into its new Associate of Science Nursing program. The program is designed to meet the needs of the community by complimenting Albany Tech’s existing nursing program. Students will be able to complete their nursing career choice by one of two tracks – the traditional path and the LPN-RN bridge path. “There has been a tremendous response Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012 | 10
By The Numbers
Most Popular Age Group
Baker Calhoun Clay Dougherty Lee Randolph Terrell
Graduates Employed in Field
565
Graduates employed in Related Field
314
11 | Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012
Awards TCCs 2,242 Diploma 1,311 Degree 262
26,687.5
52 Companies Served through Economic
389 887
Development Programs
1,518 Number of People Trained in Economic
Development Programs
Enrollment Numbers Total students enrolled
Dual High School Enrolled
18 13 144
Joint High School Enrolled Tech Prep StudentS Enrolled
Students Receiving hope
4,616 students receiving pell 5,616
Summer Transition
Fall
Spring
Summer
Total
Full-Time
2,639
2,863
2,568
1,407
9,477
Online ONLY
1,057
1,074
1,046
957
4,134
Online
4,705 Web Enhanced
Hybrid
4,061
1,986
Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012 | 12
By The Numbers
1,696
Total Training hours through Economic Development Programs
August
ATC Graduated First Certified HIT Coding Student
Albany Tech graduated some of the first graduates in the Health Information Technology (HIT) Coding Program. One of those graduates, Carlyle Diaz, is among one of the first from the program with a 4.0 GPA and is the first Certified Coder. Diaz, a non-traditional student who decided to enter the healthcare field by way of the Health Information Technology Coding Diploma program, had worked in construction for 22 years and recognized there were job opportunities for certified coders. With his certification, Diaz has become a Certified Professional Coder-Hospital Outpatient from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). According to the AAPC, as physicians move away from private practice and join hospital groups, career opportunities in Outpatient Facilities such as Ambulatory Surgical Centers or hospital outpatient billing and coding departments are openings for coders. The CPC-H® exam Diaz completed validates the specialized payment knowledge needed for these jobs in addition to the CPT® and ICD-9 coding skills. “We are proud of Mr. Diaz and his accomplishments in the HIT program here at Albany Tech,” said Victoria Mills, chairperson for the Health Information Technology program at Albany Tech.
ATC Cut Ribbon on New HRT and MM Labs
Albany Technical College cut the ribbon 13 | Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012
on new labs for the Hotel/Restaurant/ Tourism Management and Marketing Management program labs on August 23rd. The new Hotel/Restaurant/Tourism Management lab provides students enrolled in the program an opportunity for extensive hands-on training in all areas of Hospitality Management. Students are able to work in hotel rooms, a cruise ship cabin, travel agency, hotel lobby, as well as handle the front of the house in a restaurant. Classes also teach them how to check-in hotel guests, book travel packages, plan events, and handle all aspects of management from human resources to legal issues. “This new lab will provide an opportunity to train potential employees with tools they will use in the workplace,” said Lisa Riddle, chairperson for the Hotel/ Restaurant/Tourism Management program at Albany Tech. “Our stateof-the-art facility will benefit Albany’s hotels, restaurants, and tourism facilities, as well as provide students training that can be used all over the world.” The new Marketing Management classroom houses 30 Apple® MacBooks that are secured in the desks and more easily accessible, which creates opportunities for more classroom use than ever before. The new lab is equipped with a 16-foot display window, new mannequins, installation equipment, and accessories, which allows the Marketing students to get a hands-on look at the retail and space creation elements included in the field. “The new and improved Marketing Management lab
and classroom will help to foster more creativity and technology utilization through new resources offered in the space,” said Kristel Baranko, chairperson for the Marketing Management program at Albany Tech. Both new labs establish further examples of the type of training available to Albany Tech students. The College is always looking for ways to redesign other program labs to simulate the workforce environment, which further prepares graduates to be more than prepared when entering the job market.
ATC Kicked off Achieving the Dream for Faculty/Staff
Albany Technical College held an internal kickoff for “Achieving the Dream” with faculty and staff on September 17th with a series of events on Tuesday through Thursday of the week. On September 18th, Kenneth Cutts, District Director for Sanford D. Bishop’s office, delivered a keynote speech on “Equity,” which is one of the five principles of Albany Tech’s Achieving the Dream initiative. On September 20th, faculty/staff members took part in a special “football game” designed to showcase obstacles they may face as a college student and how to overcome and complete college.
September
the seven-county Service Delivery Area (SDA). Information was also available on how the college currently stands with job placement, graduation, and enrollment. “The current economic climate has increased the reliance of a post-secondary education at a technical college to secure a well paying job,” said Dr. Anthony Parker, President of Albany Technical College.“Obtainment of workforce skill sets is one of the more important variables in competing for employment,” he added.
Parker also discussed the upcoming celebration of Adult Literacy week in Georgia, which was September 10-14. Albany Tech held an open house at all Adult Education sites within the seven counties served, with a special ribbon cutting on Sept. 12th at the College’s new Lee County Adult Education Center.
County Adult Education program have been bestowed the honor of being named a Golden EAGLE Award winner (Ms. Jimmie Walls) for being the oldest graduate in the state of Georgia in 2005; and an EAGLE Delegate, Ms. Keonna Tumblin, in 2011. Tumblin has recently been nominated for the GED Graduate Award and recently authored a book. During FY 2012, the Lee County Adult Education Center enrolled 186 students with the majority of students 16 to 18 years of age. One hundred ten students achieved at least one academic level and 29.4 percent of students enrolled transitioned to post-secondary education.
ATC Opened New Lee County Adult Education Center
ATC President Parker Held State of the College Address
Albany Technical College President, Dr. Anthony Parker, delivered a State of the College address on September 10th. Dr. Parker focused on Albany Technical College’s strength in enrollment and compare how we measure up within
Albany Technical College officially cut the ribbon on its newly relocated Adult Education Center in Lee County on September 12th. The Albany Tech Lee County Adult Education Center serves citizens in Lee County ranging from 16 to 100 years of age. Over the past five years, the program has produced at least 75 General Education Diploma (GED) graduates per year. Students in the Lee Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012 | 14
October
ATC Cut Ribbon on New Calhoun County Adult Education Center
Albany Technical College officially cut the ribbon on its new Adult Education Center in Calhoun County on October 4th in Edison. The Albany Tech Calhoun County Adult Education Center serves citizens in Calhoun County ranging from 16 to 100 years of age. Besides President Parker, speakers at the ribbon cutting included Richard West, a retired member of the Albany Tech Board of Directors and owner of West IGA, Inc., as well as current Albany Tech Board member, Neil Lowe, who is also President and CEO of the Bank of Edison.
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Albany Tech Foundation Accepted Scholarship Presentation from the Henry Family
we serve,” said Dr. Anthony O. Parker, President of Albany Technical College. “Most of the time, we receive feedback in the form of a letter, survey results, or On October 9th, the Albany Tech phone call. It is very gratifying when the Foundation, Inc. was presented with work done by the college is memorialized a check in the amount of $1,000 from in a remembrance. We are honored and Holy Victory Deliverance Temple, Inc. on touched to the recipient of a true gift from behalf of Thomas F. Henry, Sr., a current student at Albany Tech. A scholarship fund the heart,” added Parker. Wendy Johnson, the daughter of the late Mrs. Henry, is was set up in memory of Henry’s wife, also a current student at Albany Tech. who had also been a student at Albany Tech. The church intends to add $50 each month to grow the fund. The funds will go to assist students with special needs. “We all hope that the organizations we are involved with are valued by those
ATC Launched Operations Management Program
Albany Beginning spring semester 2013, Albany Technical College will add an Operations Management associate degree program to its list of areas of study. The Operations Management program will train students to enter the workforce as an entry-level supervisor within a manufacturing community. The program will afford students the ability to organize, and lead an organization in its daily performance of the tasks of creating and producing a product that meets the needs of a customer, while producing revenue that will generate a profit. While complimenting all existing manufacturing related Albany Tech programs, courses will be designed to acquaint students with the different types of operations necessary for the successful flow of product within an organization. Topics of discussion include human resource
October
strategies, supply chain operation, inventory and planning management, and material and scheduling operations. Students earning the associate degree in Operations Management will complete the educational requirements for Certified Associate Project Manager (CAPM®) and have the opportunity to complete other requirements for certification testing. Albany Technical College will also offer PMP® certification and CAPM® certification in a non-credit offering for individuals and companies needing this specialized training. The new program will be chaired by Dr. Steve Eidson, who already heads up the Lean Six Sigma program at Albany Tech. Eidson, a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt instructor, recently passed the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam through the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP designation is
the most important industry recognized certification for Project Managers.
ATC Opened Newly Designed Bookstore
Albany Tech cut the ribbon on its new campus bookstore on October 25th. The $450,000 project transformed the old student center in Freedom Hall to the new 5,575-square-foot bookstore. The new facility provides more registers for faster service. “We’re able to get more students in, service more students, and let them be able to get on out and into their classes,” said Phillip Monfort, Bookstore Coordinator. Additional offerings in the new bookstore include an increased selection of clothing options, which includes Nike® branded apparel. In the spring, the Book Express program for student to order books online and pick up in the bookstore should be available.
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November
ATC Launched Center for Business Solutions (CBS)
Albany Technical College officially launched its new Center for Business Solutions (CBS) the first part of November, which serves as an extension of the College’s Economic Development division to provide expanded business solutions for area employers. Dedicated to improving workplaces around all of Southwest Georgia, CBS will focus heavily on providing customized business training and continuing education, as well as provide outlets on the college campus for venues and services to clients. Whether it is workforce skills, technical skills or professional development, the Center for Business Solutions at Albany Tech can design, develop and deliver training solutions to specifically meet the needs of any area businesses and within each company’s time frame. Solutions are always customized to companyprescribed guidelines and delivered how, when, and where it is convenient to each business. “At our new Center for Business Solutions, we are dedicated to providing solutions to improve your business operations and impact your bottom line,” said Matt Trice, Vice President for CBS at Albany Tech. With the existing program offerings at Albany Tech, including Business Logistics, Lean Six Sigma, Operations Management, and the upcoming Project Management Program, the Center for Business Solutions provides comprehensive workforce training solutions and professional development 17 | Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012
for area employers and their employees. The Business Logistics program through CBS has been called one of the best logistics educational online programs in this region. The program’s goal is to teach the next leaders the business of logistics, which is more important than ever in ensuring our goods and services are delivered at the right time, place and costs in the global marketplace. Lean Six Sigma offers both green and black belt certifications through CBS’s partnership with The Quality Group in Atlanta. This program is designed to equip individuals with the methodologies and tools that will enable them to make, at times, dramatic improvements to processes that can reduce waste, improve effectiveness, and raise profitability. And, in comparison to other institutions offering Lean Six Sigma, Albany Tech’s program remains the lowest in the state and is HOPE Grant eligible. Operations Management is a new program that
will be offered through CBS in January 2013. This program is designed to plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations. Individuals earning the associate degree in Operations Management will complete the educational requirements for Certified Associate Project Manager (CAPM®) and have the opportunity to complete other requirements for certification testing. CBS will also offer PMP® certification and CAPM® certification in a non-credit offering for individuals and companies needing this specialized training. Individuals earning the associate degree in Operations Management will complete the educational requirements for Certified Associate Project Manager (CAPM®) and have the opportunity to complete other requirements for certification testing. CBS will also offer PMP® certification and CAPM® certification in a non-credit offering for individuals and companies needing this specialized training.
An additional program to be offered by CBS in January is Project Management. This program will consist of a blended format utilizing online components, as well as in-class lab experiences. Major subject areas will include Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing the project. This conforms to the educational requirements of the Project Management Institute for sitting for the PMP® certification exam. Conference Center, Logistics Auditorium, Executive Boardroom, computer labs and classroom space are available for rental by area employers and businesses. A new catering service – Titans Culinary Cuisine – will be launched to provide the finest quality food and service to those businesses needing catering for events both on and off campus at Albany Tech. Those in the current workforce can continue their education through CBS classes such as Entrepreneurship, CPR Certification, Forklift Training, and several computer classes. Additional opportunities through continuing education include Vehicle Escort Certification, Driver’s Education Courses, and Commercial Truck Driving (CDL). Through the Center’s new Pearson VUE Testing Center, individuals can test for licensure, certification and assessment programs from around the world, including the I/T Exam and General Education Development (GED®) test. Event planning and catering services will also be offered through CBS.
November
Facilities such as Albany Tech’s Kirkland Conference Center, Logistics Auditorium, Executive Boardroom, computer labs and classroom space are available for rental by area employers and businesses.
ATC’s Student Fellowship for Christians Organization Hosted Luncheon
On November 15th, Albany Technical College’s Student Fellowship for Christians (SFC) organization hosted a Thanksgiving Luncheon. Guest speaker for the luncheon was Ken Bevel, Senior Associate Pastor of Connections and Events at Sherwood Baptist Church and co-star of the motion pictures, Fireproof and Courageous. A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Bevel has been a member of Sherwood Baptist Church since 2007. After 20 years of active service in the U.S. Marine Corps, including tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, Bevel retired to serve in the ministry. A graduate of the University of Memphis with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering Technology and a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School with a master’s degree in Logistics Management, Bevel has been interviewed on numerous television
shows including Fox and Friends and Huckabee. Albany Tech’s chapter of SFC exists to promote a sense of civic and professional responsibility, while embracing students with fellowship, prayer, and empowerment. Working within the Christian framework to encourage the students to achieve their goals at the college and in their community, SFC provides a Christian atmosphere for students to develop the competencies needed for their chosen occupational fields of study. It is a non-denominational organization open to all Albany Tech students.
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December Albany Technical College Honored as a Finalist for TCSG Technical College of the Year
The State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia recognized Albany Technical College for being one of three finalists for the board’s Perdue Award for the Technical College of the Year for 2012. Atlanta Technical College was the board’s choice for the top award, which was announced during the board’s monthly meeting in Atlanta on December 6. Albany Technical College was the other runner-up for the award. Albany Tech President Dr. Anthony O. Parker accepted a resolution from TCSG State Board Chair Lynn Cornett honoring the college’s record of achievement during the past year. Cornett praised the efforts of the faculty and staff at Albany Technical College and thanked them for providing their students with a worldclass technical education that leads to skilled careers in Georgia’s workforce.
Albany Technical College Titans Hosted Holiday Classic Dec. 28th/29th
The Albany Technical College Titans hosted an inaugural Holiday Classic tournament on Friday and Saturday, December 28 and 29, 2012, at the Albany Civic Center. Besides the Albany Tech Titans and Lady Titans, participating teams for the tournament included: Alabama Southern College, ASA College, Chattahoochee Technical College, Darton State College, 19 | Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012
Middle Georgia Technical College, and South Georgia Technical College. Both the Titans and Lady Titans snagged victories during the two-day tournament.
Albany Tech Held Fall Commencement Ceremony
Albany Technical College held its Fall Commencement Ceremony on Friday, December 14, 2012, at 7 p.m. at the Albany Civic Center. Over 130 students received their associate degrees; more than 650 diplomas; and more than 750 technical certificates of credit. In addition, more than 120 students received their GED’s. Several of these students were also recognized in the program for outstanding achievements and contributions in club organizations, student organizations, and academic excellence, which includes President’s List, scholarships, and other affiliations. The guest speaker for the evening ceremony was Michael T. Madden, Executive Deputy for the Marine Corps Logistics Command, Albany. A native of Schenectady, New York, Madden began his career as a Navy Supply Corps Officer. He received his commission from the ROTC program at The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics/ Computer Science from The Citadel, a master’s degree in Information Systems from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School and a master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College. He also attended the
Kellogg School’s Advanced Executive Program at Northwestern University.
Albany Technical College Named 2012 Employee of the Year
Albany Technical College named the 2012 Employee of the Year on Monday, December 17th, during a faculty/staff holiday luncheon and recognition program. The winner was Angela Davis, Grants Coordinator/ Compliance Officer with Albany Tech. A native of Tacoma, Washington, Davis has been employed with Albany Tech for a little over two years. In her role as the Grants Coordinator/Compliance Officer, Davis has worked to identify grant funding and write grant proposals for college programs to enhance the services being delivered by the College. So far, Davis has been successful in securing over $5 million in grants for Albany Tech.
Contributors Adams Exterminators Albany ARC Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Albany Electric/MetroPower Albany State University Foundation Albany Tech Construction Program Albany Tech Cosmetology Program Albany Tech Environmental Horticulture Program Albany Tech Faculty and Staff Artesian Contractors AT&T Bagwell Family Foundation Francois Bigot Dr. Wilburn Campbell Central Monitoring Services Commodore Conyers Ernestine D. Cross Culpepper Construction, Inc. Dawson Rotary Club Richard and Celinda Dennison Dougherty County Retired Educators Association
Ellis Rickett & Associates Emerson Electrical Foundation Flintco Michael Fowler Greg and Carol Fullerton GA Branch, AGC Mr. and Mrs. Donnie L. Garner, Sr. Georgia Power Co. Dr. and Mrs. Charles B. Gillespie Dr. C.W. Grant Lemuel Griffin Harvey’s Pamela M. Heglar HeritageBank of the South Holy Victory Deliverance Temple, Inc. James Unlimited Jeannetta Design Associates, Inc. Claude C. Lowe LRA Constructors Michael and Ruth Madden Mars Chocolate North America Mr. and Mrs. Joe Mercer Newell Construction
Oxford Construction Pan-Hellenic Council Virginia Parker Patsy Martin Pellicano Construction Co. Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital Pinnacle Advertising Specialities, Inc. Poteat Funeral Home PPC Foundation John Proctor Publix Rental Depot SB&T Bank Short & Paulk John and Sheila Smith Lula Stokes SWGA CFC TCSG Foundation WFXL
Thank you for helping make 2012 a successful year! Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012 | 20
Board of Trustees JOE AUSTIN
Dougherty County Representative Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital
NEIL LOWE
Calhoun County Representative Bank of Edison
BEN BARROW
Dougherty County Representative LRA Constructors, Inc.
COL. STEPHEN MEDEIROS
Dougherty County Representative Marine Depot Maintenance Command
JAY SMITH
Lee County Representative Georgia Power
21 | Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012
ROBERT CHESTER
Early County Representative Retired
CARL CHILDS, JR. Clay County Representative Retired
KUANITA MURPHY
VIRGINIA PARKER
Randolph County Representative Randolph County Family Connection, Inc.
JAMES TAYLOR
Dougherty County Representative City of Albany
Board Chair Dougherty County Representative Retired
BETTY WHITE
RHONDA GORDON
Terrell County Representative City of Dawson
KENT SANDERS
Baker County Representative Retired
Dougherty County Representative Retired
Foundation Members Willie Adams, MD
KATRINA BARANKO
LEM GRIFFIN
ALFREDIA HAMPTON
Flint River Services
SUZANNA MACINTOSH Community Volunteer
Merle Norman Cosmetics
MIKE CLARK
CELINDA DENNISON
Interstate Warehouse Services, Inc.
SB&T Bank
SunTrust Bank
MetroPower/Albany Electric
RONNIE HINSON
JOE JAMES
JEANETTE MCDOWELL
KIRT PHILLIPS
GLENN SINGFIELD
Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital
Merrill Lynch
Nathaniel williams Sam’s Club
Self-Employed
Artesian Contracting
CYNTHIA YOUNG Bank of America
C.W. GRANT Retired
CATHI JONES
Procter & Gamble
JIM WILCOX
WALB-Channel 10
Albany Technical College | Annual Report 2012 | 22
1704 South Slappey Boulevard Albany, Georgia 31701
A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Albany Technical College is an Equal Opportunity Institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age or disability.