It's Happening! Issue 1

FALL 2017

FALL 2017

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IT’S HAPPENING

Contents

THIS IS

4| Owl Magazine

PLUGGED IN TO

6| Online Learning COVER:

SHAE TAYLOR

12| She Succeeded at Harford SNAPSHOT 17|A Season of Celebration

Every |In Issue

President’s Message Campus Briefs Academic Briefs Alumni News Donor Profile My Experience

NEW CYBERSECURITY LABS OPEN IN JOPPA HALL

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A ribbon-cutting ceremony, lab tours, and demonstration marked the grand opening of the College’s two new Cybersecurity labs. Students will use the state-of-the-art labs to gain hands-on experience and practice critical skills. They will also be used for cybersecurity competitions, the newly-formed student Cybersecurity Club meetings and activities, and certification boot camps. New furniture, technology, and equipment were funded through a TAACCCT grant and a generous donation from Women in Defense. The College received a citation from the county’s legislative delegation for the opening, commending HCC’s continued commitment to increasing educational opportunities for our students.

FALL 2017 Executive Editor

Nancy Dysard Director of Marketing & Public Relations

Editor

Sheila Terry

It’s Happening is a community publication supported by Harford Community College and its Board of Trustees and is intended to illustrate the College’s vision: to transform lives through imagination, compassion, and rigor.

Harford Community College provides accessible, innovative, learner-centered educational opportunities and as an Writers Taylor Brethauer open-access institution, promotes graduation, Kirsten Johnson transfer, individual goal attainment, and career Madeleine Ritchey and workforce development. The College fosters lifelong learning, global awareness, and Contributors Wayne Hepler social and cultural enrichment.

Miriam Huddleston Creative Director

Cynthia Courtney

Jackie Madden Rosemarie Sedney Anne Shugars

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For corrections, suggestions, and submissions, contact Cynthia Courtney at ccourtney@harford.edu.

Board of Trustees (L-R from top) James W. McCauley, Ph.D.; Richard D. Norling; Dianna G. Phillips, Ph.D.; Cordell E. Hunter, Sr.; John F. Haggerty; Richard P. Streett, III, D.V.M.; Jan P. Stinchcomb; Laura L. Henninger, Esq., CPA; Joyce Jackson; James J. Valdes, Ph.D.

INAUGURAL EDITION

A Message from the President Dear Readers, Greetings and a warm welcome to the inaugural issue of It’s Happening at Harford Community College. We created this magazine to showcase the wonderful people, life-changing and impactful programs, and a variety of events and activities that represent life on our beautiful campus.

As we celebrate our 60th anniversary as the anchor institution for higher education in Harford County, we are proud that HCC has in some way touched the lives of almost every citizen in our community. The chances are that you, a loved one, a friend, or even a neighbor, began your college career, enrolled in a class to learn new skills or a new hobby, or attended a cultural event on campus.

At HCC, there is truly something for everyone!

Throughout these pages, you will learn about several new programs and initiatives at HCC, our award-winning, student-produced Owl Magazine, stories of student success, and the continued service and support of our distinguished alumni.

One of our latest academic program additions is our accelerated certificate in cybersecurity. We are very proud to share that HCC was named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

In April, we opened two new state-of-the-art labs in Joppa Hall to prepare our students for careers in cybersecurity,

which, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, are expected to increase by 18 percent through 2024.

You will also learn about our growing online course availability, which is breaking down the barriers of achieving academic goals by providing our military, adult learners, and others who need it the convenience of online learning to fit education into everyday life.

After coming on board as the new president of Harford Community College last August, I have learned firsthand why this campus is so unique – it is because of the passion, spirit, and support of our vibrant community!

It is my sincere hope that this publication fills you with the same pride that I feel about our students, faculty, staff, and administration every day. I look forward to seeing you on campus!

Sincerely,

Dianna G. Phillips, Ph.D. President

harford.edu/60

Save the Date October 28, 2017

Fall Open House • Family Activities • Interactive Displays & Demos • Food Trucks • Children’s Area • Oral History • Tours FALL 2017

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Owl

PROGRAM FOCUS At Harford Community College, there is an award-winning, student-produced publication that expresses life, independence, teamwork, and dedication.

This is

Magazine Take a walk through Joppa Hall and you’ll find a gathering of students editing videos, writing articles, designing layouts, even doing a quick photo shoot. They’ve been working for hours, dedicated to getting it right.

Professor Claudia Brown has created this environment where student thinkers and innovators flourish.

Before Owl Magazine was a magazine, it was The Harford Owl newspaper.

The transition in fall 2011 was in response to the newspaper industry declining and student interest rising in magazine production.

Most students who participate in the magazine want to gain experience in the field for the near future.

Adapting the program benefited the students and taught a lesson within the change. “Staying current in a constantly evolving field requires flexibility and adaptability,” says Brown.

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For Anira O’Bannon, being on staff and creating content for the magazine has helped with her future goals as a journalist. O’Bannon stated, “The work I’m doing with Owl Magazine—researching, conducting interviews, composing IT’S HAPPENING

the article(s)—it’s all part of the career description I hope to have.

Getting that exposure now will have me ready for potential opportunities after graduation.”

Six years later, Owl Magazine staff have created a publication that is respected throughout the community and has received nine national awards, including the latest, a 2017 Apple Award in the category “Best Magazine Cover,” for the magazine’s Fall/Winter 2016 issue.

Owl Magazine is currently a finalist in College Media Advisers’ Pinnacle Awards in the Best TV Special Event Coverage category. Their video entry covered the 2017 Presidential Inauguration.

Bre Mascetti, editor-in-chief of the publication, believes in the team effort the magazine focuses on,

stating, “The biggest take away from working with the Owl Magazine staff is the importance of teamwork and commitment. Without both, the magazine would not be the awardwinning publication it is today.”

Owl Magazine has enabled a circle of students to learn the importance of constructive criticism and to respect their peers, which are concepts all students must learn to succeed in their careers. This circle has grown throughout the years, and still involves alumni who are there to help when help is needed.

Alumni staff members are incorporated at all times. John Morin is one of the new professors who teaches MC208/209 and was a student at Harford when the newspaper became a magazine.

Morin never stopped working for the publication, even long after graduating, stating, “I believe very strongly in its strength as a publication and I felt I could continue to contribute in ways that would help current students be successful as well.”

As with most publications, Owl Magazine is constantly evolving.

The magazine has expanded across multiple social media platforms to maximize potential and existing viewers. From Instagram and Twitter to YouTube and Facebook, there’s nowhere you can’t find them.

Although Owl Magazine’s YouTube channel has only been around for a couple of years, it has already won

awards for its videos. In the 201516 year, the YouTube channel won first place in the category of Best Two-Year TV Station at College Media Association’s national Pinnacle Awards. Competing against four-year institutions, the magazine won twothird place awards for films shot that same year. They are a finalist for the 2016-17 year.

Having Owl Magazine as a part of Harford Community College provides students with yet another place to express their ideas and show the community what HCC has to offer.

MADELEINE RITCHEY ’17

MY INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE: MADELEINE RITCHEY “I have never done an internship before. I didn’t know what was coming for me, tasks I’d be given, the atmosphere of an office environment, and working with people who have years of experience. It was a little intimidating at first, but once I got to know the people and understand the assignments I was given, every day got easier and easier. The experience was eye opening and I fully believe it has helped me succeed in my classes and job performance this past semester. Not only has it helped in the present, but it will ultimately have me prepared for my future internships, and to meet my career goals when I transfer to FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) in the fall. I’m incredibly grateful for what I have learned and the people I was able to meet. One day I’ll have an amazing job and know this experience helped me get there.”

Editor’s note: Madeleine completed her Mass Communication field project and a summer internship with HCC’s Office of Marketing and Public Relations.

FALL 2017

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online learning

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The growth of online course availability at Harford Community College allows students to untether from the traditional face-to-face classroom­—not only for convenience, but for many, out of necessity. Although some are still unsure about jumping into the online environment, the flexibility, ease, and savings are making it an increasingly worthwhile option.

Online offerings range from general education courses (such as History, Biology or English) to the more unexpected (like Physical Education and Intro to Theater), but regardless of the class, the rigor of the virtual classroom is no different than its traditional counterpart.

James R. Karmel, Ph.D. teaches HCC’s online history courses and has advocated for online learning since it began in the early 2000s. He has watched it grow from 641 students in spring 2003 to 1,911 in spring 2017. In addition, Dr. Karmel has seen an increase in the availability of online resources. Students are now able to virtually chat with instructors and classmates, search through relevant artifacts and transcripts, and utilize online tools and support. Within his specific curriculum, Dr. Karmel provides students online documents representing historical events and facilitates discussion forums for lively debates on topics such as the relevance of the Bill of Rights and the U.S. Constitution in today’s society. Even though students aren’t “physically chatting,” they are able to interact, comment, provide evidence, and exchange opinions within the online platform, Blackboard.

Blackboard is HCC’s hub for online classes. It is an Internetbased platform that houses course-specific discussion boards (which Dr. Karmel believes is the most beneficial tool when it comes to student dialogue), videos, readings, activities, lectures and quizzes. In January 2018, HCC plans

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ed to roll out a new Online Student Success Course that will orient first-time online students to Blackboard and get them up to speed with all of its features.

While Blackboard is critical for student success, it also works as an alert system for instructors. For instance, if a student is struggling or putting off assignments, instructors see it in real time and can immediately reach out to provide help. This increases their chances of retention and success. It also encourages communication between students and instructors—a plus when they may not have met in person.

Debbie Ezell, who teaches online Health and Physical Education classes, says, “We require students to create videos as they complete their workouts. They talk about their struggles and successes. As instructors, it gives us insight into where the student is coming from. We often get to know them better than we do in a face-to-face class.”

WHY ONLINE? Although the reasons students choose online learning are as varied as the students themselves, those interviewed all agree on one thing: online learning allows you to fit education into everyday life.

“The number one benefit for students taking online courses is the flexibility. [. . .] As long as you have a device with an Internet connection, you can literally take class at anytime, anywhere,” says Karen Rege, Director for eLearning and Instructional Resources, who recalls teaching her first online course from a laptop while she was in Spain.

While students work to fit online courses into their individual situations, professors recognize their role in providing them with a meaningful education that can be paused and returned to, to fit any kind of schedule.

In Karmel’s words, it’s a chance to help them “set their own chart.”

According to Associate Professor Susan Muaddi Darraj, members of the military often enroll in online courses

PROGRAM FOCUS

in rather than having to delay their education. One such student, Noah Courtney, is in the U.S. Coast Guard and stationed on a cutter out of Portsmouth, Virginia.“The amount of time I spend out at sea doesn’t allow me to take face-to-face classes, so online is my only option. It’s not easy while living on a boat. It takes commitment and a lot of juggling, but once you get the hang of it­—the pace, the format, the whole online structure—it’s all worth it.”

Assistant Professor Miriam Huddleston shares that although some are wary of online courses, many find that once they enroll, they thrive. “[. . .] Students who tend to be shy or introverted seem to be more active participants in regard to online work such as discussions and assignments. I believe that online learning helps to empower students who may otherwise withdraw from discussions in face-to-face classes due to their introverted tendencies,” she says.

For students like Yesenia Capistran, who became disinterested during her face-to-face course, taking an online class proved to be a better alternative. “I like the idea of working on my own time [. . .] I thought my history class online was much more straightforward and easier to accomplish than being in an actual classroom,” says Capistran.

For online student Drew Isennock, online learning is an opportunity to complete credits while home from college during the summer. “[The online classes] help me get credits out of the way for college. It’s easy and convenient and it’s nice to be able to do it from your own home,” says Isennock, who is taking History and Biology online at HCC. The online credits will transfer back to his home college and allow him to save a substantial amount of money.

A group from HCC participated in MarylandOnline’s first Leadership Institute in Annapolis in late July. The institute focused on leadership in higher education, innovation, online education, collaboration, and technology. State and national leaders in technologyenhanced higher education presented and facilitated many terrific discussions and activities.

(L to R) Jamie Karmel, Ashley Meisel, Debbie Ezell, Jan Brewer, and Karen Rege

reach out to a professor prior to the start of class and get a copy of the syllabus in order to “understand the pace and structure of the class.” And, for those still unsure about going “all-in” with online, she suggests trying a hybrid class that blends online learning with periodic face-to-face classroom time.

Capistran offers encouragement to those who are on the fence. “Online classes teach you to be a responsible person and [they] challenge you in many ways. Not just in the fact that you have to do the work because no one will be there to babysit you, but also in the way that you . . . teach yourself. It’s [an] easier and more manageable way of learning because you work on your own time and anywhere you want.”

Still not sure? HCC offers an online quiz to test your readiness and find out if you have what it takes to succeed in a virtual classroom. Go to http://ww2.harford.edu/ OnlineSurvey/eLearning/OnlineReadiness/AmIReady.asp. for more information.

TAYLOR BRETHAUER

HCC HAS A QUALITY ASSURANCE PROCESS IN PLACE TO REVIEW ALL ONLINE COURSES, ENSURING THAT THEY ARE AS RIGOROUS AND OF THE SAME QUALITY AS FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES.

WILL I BE SUCCESSFUL WITH ONLINE LEARNING? Over the years, HCC has developed strategies and tips to help students be successful in online courses. Huddleston encourages students to complete a Blackboard tutorial or

is it for me?

SEARCH FALL 2017

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CAMPUS BRIEFS

Growing as a Student and Leader Chandler Blake ’17 came to Harford as, in her words, “a 22 year-old who needed time, self-reflection, and the support of this campus to find her true potential.” It wasn’t an easy journey but she was persistent. Through her interactions with caring, patient faculty, she became engaged in student life and in turn, academics. After coaxing from Professor Beth Mosser, Chandler joined the psychology club and later became its president.“Me. The failed student with no interest in student life. Me. The person who thought she could never overcome.” She went on to found an on-campus chapter of Psi Beta, a National Honor Society in Psychology for twoyear colleges, worked with SARC to coordinate on-campus programs and volunteer opportunities, and brought Rachel’s Challenge to campus­—a program in memory of the first victim of the Columbine School shooting. Blake was also one of three recipients of the national Scott Wright Essay Contest awards sponsored by NISOD. Her essay was a moving piece about her pathway to success, facilitated by professor and mentor Beth Mosser.

As Harford’s Outstanding Student Leadership Award winner, Blake was recognized by faculty for the value and impact of her contributions to the larger community.

During her commencement address, Blake reflected on her experience: “I am proud of my time spent at Harford Community College. My time here has sculpted me to be a better student, a better leader, and a better person. I’m confident. And I am ready for what the future has in store.”

HCC PARALEGAL STUDENTS VISIT U.S. SUPREME COURT AnnMarie Profili, J.D., Program Coordinator for Paralegal Studies, took paralegal students in her Constitutional Law class and the Paralegal Student Association to Washington, D.C. for a “behind-thescenes” tour of the U.S. Supreme Court. Included was a historical overview and visits to the stately courtroom, law library, and museum exhibits depicting the history of the Court and the legacy of former Justice Sandra Day O’Connor (retired). The group also toured the Library of Congress, visiting Thomas Jefferson’s personal library collection and the “Drawing Justice: The Art of Courtroom Illustration” exhibit, depicting courtroom artistry of famous American legal cases. Students were able to apply for and receive official Library of Congress library cards, allowing them to access resources within the nation’s largest legal library. The trip was sponsored by the Paralegal Student Association through the Office of Student Activities.

Pictured (L-R): Rebecca Dove, Sara Dietz, Diamond Turner, Rebecca Privette, Christina Russell, and Callie Ewen

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A T H L E T I C S

SIX HARFORD MEN’S BASKETBALL PLAYERS COMMIT TO NCAA The Harford men’s basketball team had one of their best seasons in program history and the NCAA took notice as the entire sophomore class signed letters of intent to play at the four-year level.

First-Team All-Region athlete Isaiah White will compete in the America East conference for D-I University of Maine.

Aaron McDonald and Micah Till team up again in the D-II Pennsylvania State Athletics Conference (PSAC) where they will play for Slippery Rock University. Till was named FirstTeam All-Conference, All-Region, Conference Player of the Month, and All-American honorable mention.

McDonald also earned First-Team AllConference and All-Region honors.

Forward Dom Keyes will be taking on his former teammates in the PSAC conference as he takes his talents to Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

Keyes earned honorable mention for both the conference and regional teams.

Jalen Thompson will head to D-II Holy Family University in Philadelphia; rounding out the class is guard Mychal Stefanides, who will play at D-III Wesley College in Delaware.

Says head coach Mike Smelkinson, “Each member of this class brings a dynamic skill set with them to the next level. Each of them has left their mark on Harford and I’m excited to see them have an impact at their next school.”

CAMPUS BRIEFS

HE’S ON HIS WAY TO PITTSBURGH!

Fighting Owls’ star pitcher Will Reed had a dream come true as he heard his name called in the 20th round of the MLB draft. He was picked up by the Pittsburgh Pirates and was the 598th overall pick.

Pathways to Success Day

Pathways to Success Day, sponsored by Harford Community College’s Business, Education, Computing & Applied Technology Connections Club (BECAT) and Advising, Career and Transfer Services, gave students the opportunity to attend career preparation workshops and a career and job fair.

Workshops held on campus included: “Cyber Security and Information Protections,” “Resume Building,” “Personal

WITH ENCOURAGEMENT FROM RHONDA DAVIS, TRANSITION SPECIALIST IN THE ADULT DEVELOPMENTAL AND LITERACY PROGRAMS, 2017 GED® GRADUATE

AMANDA KLINE

SUBMITTED HER STORY TO EDUCATE & ELEVATE, AN ADULT EDUCATION ADVOCACY ORGANIZATION SPONSORED BY COABE, THE LEADING PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR ADULT EDUCATORS. THIS IS HER STORY.

Financial Management,” and “How to Start, Run and Market a Business.”

In preparation for the event, the Susquehanna Workforce Network sponsored two oncampus workshops that walked students through the federal internship navigation process and helped them navigate the USA Jobs website.

Several local employers, including the U.S. Army Communications-Electronic

Preparing Students for Careers Command (CECOM), the U.S. Army Contracting Command – APG, the U.S. Army Research Laboratory and Federal Credit Union, and the Harford County Small Business Development Center, participated in the job fair and recruited students for summer internships. Some conducted on-site interviews.

Out of the 72 students who attended, 12 were offered summer internships at APG.

Reed reflected on the draft experience as well as his time at Harford: “The draft was one of the more stressful things to go through, but when it was all said and done, it was a great feeling to be selected.

Being at Harford was the most fun I have ever had playing baseball while at the same time winning an unreal amount of games.”

Reed is the ninth Harford player to be drafted and the third under current head coach Tom Eller.

Plans are already underway for next year’s event.

Adult Education Changed My Life THE CHALLENGE Due to a variety of circumstances, I became a single parent working low-paying jobs and barely managing, even after obtaining government assistance. I was without a high school diploma and had no higher education. There are not many options at this point for elevating yourself except to work at obtaining the credentials needed to get a better job and outlook on life.

THE SOLUTION I first came to HCC in 2015 and started with their online GED® study course. This was easiest for me since I could do it from home. After passing my GED® test, I set my sights on higher education. I decided on the CMAA certification, certified medical administrative assistant. This is a noncredit program for busy adults. I was approved for a scholarship for this course and started immediately. After obtaining my GED® credential and completing my CMAA program, I am happy to say that I am looking forward to my internship at Upper Chesapeake Hospital. This is where I hope to land my first job and continue up the line of promotion through higher education.

THE OUTCOME I am also looking forward to showing my daughter a stronger, more independent role model.

None of this would be possible without the adult education programs offered by Harford Community College. Without them there would be no hope for everyone who finds themselves without proper education later in life. Education is the key!

AMANDA KLINE ’17

FALL 2017

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ACADEMIC BRIEFS

What’s New? PROGRAMS

Heavy Equipment Operations Certificate: Learn to drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads, bridges, buildings and other structures; read construction stakes, calculate cut and fill for grading, and understand how to control surface and groundwater on a job site.

Contact jkrygowski@harford.edu.

Food Science Certification: Learn about ingredients and nutrition while gaining professional skills to prepare for a career in food science. Jobs are available in research & development, food processing, sales & marketing, and restaurant & hospitality.

Contact jkrygowski@harford.edu.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)/ Drone Technology Certificate: Learn to understand changing regulations; control, maintain, and repair drones for successful use and employability.

Contact jkrygowski@harford.edu.

Accelerated Business Administration: A rigorous program designed for college-ready students with a 3.0 high school GPA who want to earn an A.S. degree in only one year.

Contact rhughes@harford.edu.

Not Your Traditional Classroom Experiences LOCAL BUSINESSES BECOME PARTNERS IN THE CLASSROOM Each semester, Miriam Huddleston requires her Principles of Marketing students to prepare an abbreviated marketing plan for a local business. It’s a real world application that gives them a chance to work with local business owners just as they would do after graduation—and students love it.

At the beginning of the spring semester, Dan Hampton, Hampton Electric; Mickenzie Hyson, Spa and Member Experience Director for The Spa at the Bel Air Athletic Club; and Sal Bevivino, founder/creator of MedpaK; came to HCC to meet with the students. They discussed their marketing needs, answered questions, and acted as “clients” for the class. They returned at the end of the semester and were presented with marketing plans for their businesses.

The sessions were a huge success. Students commented on how much they enjoyed the project, and the business representatives appreciated the valuable feedback and insight. An additional perk? Both Bevivino and Hampton offered internships to our students!

GRANTS The College is pleased to announce the award of two National Science Foundation Grants. $648,953 will fund the College’s STEM division to encourage academically talented students with financial need to continue their education in biology and engineering fields. The Business, Education, Computing & Applied Technology division was awarded a $200,000 grant for Advanced Technological Education to create an additive manufacturing career pathway for community college and high school students.

SENIOR STAFF

TAKING ADVANTAGE OF OUR 352-ACRE CLASSROOM

Dr. Jacqueline Jackson, Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Effectiveness

Harford’s 352-acre campus provides the perfect place for our students to learn—and not just inside the academic buildings. Assistant Professor Jaclyn Madden’s General Biology class recently took to the great outdoors using classical taxonomy identification techniques to figure out the genus and species of trees on campus. Students also gathered needles from the trees, and once back in the labs, used molecular biology techniques to extract DNA.

HCC welcomes these new members of the Fighting Owls Family!

Dr. Pamela Pape-Lindstrom, Dean of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Dr. Anton “Tony” E. Wohlers, Dean of Behavioral and Social Sciences

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USING HCPS AS A CLASSROOM In addition to in-patient clinical rotations for pediatric nursing, Associate Professor Rosemarie Sedney’s students also gain experience in a community setting by conducting health fairs in several Harford County Public Schools.

Nursing students develop a teaching plan and tool (poster) designed for specific ages and populations­­. Topics are chosen based on community needs, development, and national guidelines as determined by the Department of Health and Human Services Healthy People 2020 initiative. The health fair is a winwin for both the College and HCPS as it meets course outcomes for pediatric nursing and supports the HCPS health curriculum as well as additional Title I requirements.

Promoting Global and Diversity Awareness

HCC FACULTY PRESENTERS: TAMI IMBIEROWICZ, ANNE SHUGARS, AND REGINA ROOF-RAY

The ability to travel, whether abroad or domestically, is an opportunity that many of our students are not afforded. To offset this, Harford Community College faculty work to embed aspects of global and cultural diversity into the curriculum and have developed a campus-wide ‘themed’ initiative as a vehicle to do so. Each academic year, one country is selected and highlighted in course curriculum. The program has been so successful that several of our faculty recently flew to Iceland to present the program at the Maryland Community College International Education Consortium (MCCIEC) conference.

The conference guided participants through the process of implementing on-site instruction that maximizes students’ global education.

Conference sessions provided examples of how faculty across different disciplines build classroom activities, discussions, assignments, and/or readings around the specified country, as well as other countries and regions of the U.S. The group also explained how students can learn about culture, language, social concerns, government, economy, energy, geography, biodiversity and other perspectives through the experiences of the faculty.

In addition to the conference sessions, faculty were able to experience the Leidarendi Lava Caves, where they were led by a local geologist and learned about the different rock formations; tour the Fridheimar Greenhouse where they learned about sustainable family-run organic

ACADEMIC BRIEFS

farming; and take a guided tour of the Global Thermal Energy Plant.

Side trips included a glacier hike and sight seeing.

Topics from the conference included: • P racticum on understanding Iceland: natural resources, environmental sustainability, culture and history • F ostering global awareness in off-campus teaching • M anaging study abroad logistics • D iscipline-specific study abroad • S ervice learning abroad • S tudy abroad/international education in a community college context

Gracie Shannahan and John Biondo present their project, “Using Enterocci to Monitor Water Quality of Streams in Harford County.”

CELEBRATING CREATIVE WORK AND SCHOLARSHIP Seven HCC students participated in the Humanities division’s first Student Symposium, which gave students the opportunity to share creative and scholarly works from all disciplines. From poetry, chemistry, and butterfly gardens to culture and proxemics, as well as the monitoring of Harford County streams, students were praised for their research, creativity, and presentation. At the conclusion of the event, Lisa Tittle, Interim Dean for Humanities,

commented on the diversity of information presented. “I learned there are 80 kinds of butterflies that are native to Harford County, I should choose Tums as my antacid, and I should not go swimming in the watersheds of Harford County.” She then thanked the students, faculty and staff. “Without all of their work we would not have had such a wonderful presentation today.” Humanities is already planning to offer this event again next year.

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ALUMNI PROFILE

Succeeded at Harford Shae Taylor

An Army wife of 18 years and a mother of four, Shajuana “Shae” Taylor moved to Harford County in June of 2008. Originally from Tacoma, Washington, Taylor grew up in a military family where she moved often and spent 10 years of her childhood in Bremerhaven, Germany. When people would ask her what she wanted to be when she grew up, Taylor would respond with “something in the medical field,” typically settling on “doctor.” But upon entering her third high school in as many years, this straight-A student grew frustrated with the system and dropped out.

Taylor went on to get her GED and decided to try college. She wasn’t ready and continued to struggle, especially in math. After withdrawing from multiple classes and unsuccessfully taking remediation courses, she thought all hope was lost and gave up.

Her dream, however, never left her and eventually she decided to try again. That’s when she learned that Harford Community College is a place for second chances.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SHAE TAYLOR AND OTHER ALUMNI WHO HAVE SUCCEEDED AT HARFORD, VISIT HARFORD.EDU/SUCCESS.

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STARTING OVER “It took me ten years to go back to college, but this time I was a wife and mother. I went part-time and not every semester. Once our children were school-aged and my husband

was no longer deploying, I decided to enroll in Harford’s phlebotomy program,” said Taylor. It wasn’t until she earned her certification and started working as a phlebotomist at Upper Chesapeake Medical Center did the light bulb go off: she could still make that little girl, who wanted so badly to be a doctor, proud. But this time, she chose to become a nurse.

“Nurses did everything that I dreamed of doing in the profession . . . Nursing encompasses every trait I have and want to continue to develop—compassion and caring for others is second nature to me. Being an advocate for those who need help and finding solutions to their problems excites me. I enjoy the idea of making a difference in the lives of

others and nurses are on the front line of healthcare. They’re like first responders in a hospital . . .”

“If it were not for the convenience of Harford’s continuing education courses in phlebotomy, I would have missed out on discovering this new passion. The phlebotomy certification began the journey to achieve my goal of becoming a registered nurse,” said Taylor.

That was 2011. In 2015 Taylor went on to earn an Associate in Arts degree in General Studies and, this past May, an Associate in Science degree in Nursing.

REALIZING SUCCESS Following her experience in Belize [see sidebar] and nearing the completion of her practicum, Taylor began to see a side of herself she didn’t know she had in her: she became a leader. She credits this to the opportunities she had while overcoming setbacks and completing her nursing degree.

“Not only did I become a registered nurse, I also became a leader. That is something I never thought possible.

My success at Harford was possible with the support of my family, employer, professors, and classmates . . . Failure is not an option with that many people [rooting] for you! That is what was missing from my earlier attempts at college and I finally found it at Harford,” said Taylor.

Finding encouragement at Harford is what led Taylor to become what she calls, “‘that nurse’ [the one] a patient sees on their worst day who cares enough to help them through it.”

The drive and passion Taylor has for education doesn’t end here. She is currently on track to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN) from Towson University in the spring 2018 semester, and is now working in the Neurotrauma unit at the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland. She plans to continue her education at the University of Maryland to become a Critical Care Nurse Practitioner— and it all traces back to her start at HCC.

“I had the opportunity to spend two weeks immersed in another culture. I stayed with a host family, along with another classmate, Shana Skeffrey, and three students from Boston, Scotland, and Vancouver, British Columbia. The highlight of my trip was getting to know the other students from different countries and learning from the nurses and my host family,” said Taylor.

During her trip, Taylor was able to work in a local hospital, participate in the National Guard’s efforts to provide free health care events, and see how those living in Belize genuinely appreciated the nurses who were there to help them. As Taylor said, it was “truly life changing. We learned to go back to the basics of nursing. And from us, they learned about compassionate care.”

The practicum abroad experience allowed Taylor to understand alternate ways of practicing medicine.

Ways, said Taylor, that helped “enrich and inspire [our] knowledge of cultural diversity, advocacy, and innovation in nursing practice.”

To those thinking about entering the nursing program, Taylor says, “Harford felt like home. I enjoyed going through the hardest but most rewarding experience in the nursing program with all of my classmates who now . . . I consider to be family.

We have a lifelong bond that started at Harford Community College. The nursing program at Harford allows one to become a better nurse than he or she ever thought possible.

Any student who attends nursing school at Harford will not only gain the knowledge needed to pass the boards and start his or her career . . . but will be encouraged to be an advocate for the future of healthcare in the local community and worldwide.”

TAYLOR BRETHAUER

THE BENEFITS OF AN HCC EDUCATION ARE CLEAR IN TAYLOR’S STORY. THEY OFFERED HER A CHANCE TO START OVER, ACHIEVE HER CHILDHOOD DREAM, AND MEET PEOPLE WITH THE SAME PASSION AND DRIVE AS HER OWN; LITTLE DID SHE KNOW THAT DRIVE WOULD TAKE HER OUT OF HARFORD COUNTY AND PLACE HER IN THE MIDDLE OF SAN IGNACIO, BELIZE, WHERE SHE WOULD COMPLETE HER NURSING PRACTICUM—AN EXPERIENCE THAT CHANGED HER LIFE. THAT’S WHAT HARFORD DOES. IT CHANGES LIVES. HARFORD COMMUNITY COLLEGE IS CURRENTLY PLANNING AN ADDITIONAL TRAVEL ABROAD EXPERIENCE IN BEL AIR’S SISTER-CITY, NARVA, ESTONIA. THE TRIP IS PLANNED FOR NOVEMBER 2017.

FALL 2017

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THE PRACTICUM ABROAD EXPERIENCE

“ Harford Community College is the only associate of science nursing program in our area that offers a study abroad practicum experience. This option afforded me the opportunity to complete my 100 hours of practicum in San Ignacio, Belize.”

ALUMNI NEWS

Distinguished

Alumni Award

Charles H. Jacobs, Jr., a lifelong Harford County resident, was honored during the College’s 59th Commencement ceremony.

Foundation Board of Directors. He and Harford Bank are members of the HCC President’s Circle of Giving.

“Chuck has always been a true champion for Harford Community College,” said Denise Dregier, director for College and Alumni Development. “His generosity and guidance on the Foundation board have made a tremendous impact on our students and the institution. This honor is well deserved.”

An Aberdeen High School graduate, Chuck attended Harford Community College and went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, College of Business and Management.

“HARFORD COUNTY IS MY HOME, AND I HAVE A LOYALTY TO MY ALMA MATER . . . IT WAS INSTILLED IN ME AT AN EARLY AGE THAT SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY WAS THE RIGHT THING TO DO.”

NOMINATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE 2018 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT WWW.HARFORD.EDU/ DISTINGUISHEDALUMNI.

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His highly successful banking career began in 1976. From an entry-level position, he advanced to become a member of the Board of Directors and in 1999 was named President/Chief Executive Officer of Harford Bank.

His commitment to Harford Community College has not wavered since his time on campus. He served on the Alumni Committee for many years, and since 2006, on the HCC

Under his leadership, the City of Aberdeen, Harford County, and the Harford Chamber of Commerce have recognized Harford Bank as a valued corporate citizen. In 1997, Harford Bank received the Harford Award. In addition, the Maryland Bankers Association awarded Harford Bank first place in 2004 for their Education Award for “Young Adult Outreach.” In 2010, the bank was named Harford County Philanthropist of the Year.

“Professionally, I have always emphasized the importance of being a good corporate citizen for the County and local community. We see what the College does and the good work that results and want to be a part of it,” Chuck said.

Established in 2014, the Distinguished Alumni Award honors the achievements of a former student who has attained outstanding success in their chosen profession, demonstrated a commitment to the community, and maintained an interest in and service to Harford Community College.

ALUMNI NEWS

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2017 ATHLETIC

HALL

FAME

First team All-American Tom Smith, and Lester Lee, beloved College and youth sports coach, were recently inducted into Harford Community College’s Class of 2017 Athletic Hall of Fame. During the 1976 football season, Smith was a wide receiver for the Fighting Owls and was the College’s first-ever first team All-American, making the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-America team the same year.

Lee, a dedicated HCC basketball and softball coach and fixture in Harford County sports, coached for more than 12 years and helped guide more than 150 Fighting Owls victories. Congrats to both inductees!

ANNA AND JAMES LAMBDIN NURSING SCHOLARSHIP The Harford Community College Foundation received a $50,000 gift from James and Anna Lambdin to name the EKG Lab in Darlington Hall, home of the College’s nursing and allied health programs. The funds will be used to endow the Anna and James Lambdin Nursing Scholarship for Harford students enrolled in the associate of sciences degree nursing program. The Lambdins have close ties to the College. Mr. Lambdin currently serves as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Harford Community College Foundation, and Mrs. Lambdin is an alumna (Psychology ’00).

Class Notes & Alumni News

1971 Dr. Patricia Thompson (General Studies ’71 and Nursing ’85) was named the 2017 University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health Leadership Nurse of the Year.

1976 Debra Kauffman (Nursing) was named the 2017 Maryland School Nurse of the Year by the Maryland Association of School Health Nurses. She is the school nurse at Fountain Green Elementary School in Bel Air, Maryland.

d roses tion sol ment ia c o s s A nce ni e Alum ford’s Comme th , ion ar d tradit ds at H a Harfor bers and frien uates! g in u n Conti family mem grad ll of the d to prou Congrats to a y. ceremon

ATTENTION ALUMNI:

RECONNECT WITH HARFORD COMMUNITY COLLEGE! To suggest alumni stories, submit almuni news and class notes, or be added to our mailing list, please contact Lanell Patrick at 443-412-2563 or lpatrick@harford.edu.

We look forward to hearing from you.

2000 Kristina Powell (Music) was a finalist for the 2017 Harford County Teacher of the Year award. She is a vocal and general music teacher at Bel Air Elementary School.

2002 Brannon Dagilas, M.A. (General Studies) was named Community Sales Director for Brightview Bel Air. 2007 Kevin Totaro (General Studies) was named the assistant coach and offensive coordinator for the Harford Community College men’s lacrosse team.

James Greene received his degree in journalism from Towson University 2015.

He recently We would in love to hear about your moved to Grand Junction, Colorado achievements and help you stay to begin his career as a reporter for connected to campus! Share your KKCO/KJCT, the Gray-owned NBC/ news and update your contact ABC duopoly.by visiting www. information harford.edu/reconnect.

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DONOR PROFILE

It’s About A Hand Up, Not A Hand Out. HELPING OTHERS THROUGH SERVICE GUIDED GEORGE S. AND FRANCES M. HOPKINS THROUGHOUT THEIR LIVES.

Phil and Eddie Hopkins

“This is their legacy. In establishing this endowment, and the scholarship, we tried to view the world as if it were through their eyes,” said Eddie.

“They led by example, and their actions spoke volumes.”

“They had a deep love for one another and for their country. My uncle was a military man, and having grown up in the Depression era, their lives were about faith and service to others. They always wanted to remain anonymous. For them it was always about a hand up and not a hand out,” said Phil Hopkins, nephew of George and Frances.

Phil, along with his brother Eddie, fondly remembers the quiet, thoughtful deeds of their aunt and uncle.

They selflessly gave their time and talents to help numerous community organizations, including Saint Margaret Parish and the Humane Society of Harford County, and they were known for donating food and school supplies to churches and families in need.

Throughout their 55-year marriage, George’s military service took them throughout the United States and around the world, but they always maintained a great love and appreciation for their hometown and the local community.

“They grew up in Harford County, and while they traveled the world, they always came back here,” Phil said. “They had a true sense of community. Faith, service to their country, and service to the community tied it all back together for them.”

It is in this spirit that the George S. and Frances M. Hopkins Memorial Scholarship was established to recognize others who exhibit the Hopkins’ commitment to each other, their community, education and military service.

“They overcame physical hardships and the hardships of the Depression. What I found most impressive was that our uncle didn’t have the opportunity to go to college, but when you talked to him, he was one of the smartest people I knew. He was well read and well versed about everything. Going to college for him was about the betterment of self and striving to be better, but not in a boastful way,” Phil shared.

“It is our hope that the students will take their college experience and come back to the community and pay it forward.”

George S. & Frances M. Hopkins Memorial Scholarship THE FIRST SCHOLARSHIPS WILL BE AWARDED IN THE 2017-18 ACADEMIC YEAR; EACH RECIPIENT WILL RECEIVE $1,500.

ELIGIBLE STUDENTS MUST BE ENROLLED FULL TIME, A RESIDENT OF HARFORD COUNTY, AND HAVE A MINIMUM 2.0 GRADE POINT AVERAGE. FINANCIAL NEED IS PREFERRED BUT NOT REQUIRED. FIRST PREFERENCE WILL BE GIVEN TO STUDENTS WHO ARE ACTIVE MILITARY OR VETERANS.

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George and Frances Hopkins

IT’S HAPPENING

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Success comes in many forms,­as does celebration.

Harford Community College recognizes the successes of all of our students as they continue their education, enter the workforce, or advance their careers. Your time spent at Harford should be one you are proud of.

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“ We have done our very best to serve you well–you have proven your skill and your knowledge. It is my hope that you have begun the lifelong exploration of your humanity. Go forward with confidence!”

DIANNA G. PHILLIPS, PH.D. from her 2017 Commencement address

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STUDENT PERSPECTIVE

my EXPERIENCE

KIRSTEN JOHNSON ’17

DURING MY TIME IN ELECTRONIC MEDIA PERFORMANCE, WE HAVE DONE THREE PERFORMANCE PROJECTS: A RADIO COMMERCIAL, AN INTERVIEW, AND A NEWSCAST. After each project

MC 104 Electronic Media Performance This hands-on course introduces students to the preparation and execution of media performance skills. Students learn how to improve their vocal and visual presentation, record performances typical of the industry, and critique classroom and professional performances.

Newscasts, commercials and interviews are typical projects with the possibility of airing on FM radio or cable television.

Course includes 30 hours of lecture and 30 hours of lab per semester.

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was completed, Wayne [Professor Wayne Hepler] has us watch them together as a class and critique the work of our peers. This feedback alone would be useful in growing as a performer, but Wayne doesn’t stop there. Every time we get together for a critique session, he brings in a guest critic—a professional working in the field. For the radio commercial project, our guest was Lorenzo Millan, an Emmy award-winning audio engineer. For the interview project, our guest was Zach Myers, a videographer and owner of Zach Myers Productions.

For the newscast project, our guest was Kai Jackson, journalist and news anchor for Fox 45. Each of these guests have so much experience in the field and their advice was absolutely invaluable. Wayne is always looking for ways to keep students interested and learning, and he really hit the nail on the head with this one. By bringing these individuals into our classroom, Wayne gets us to work harder and intently listen to the feedback we’re receiving in order to apply it to our performances. As a student, it is easy to get into the habit of doing just enough work to squeak by with a passing grade. Bringing in a guest speaker from the field keeps us from doing this. When you know that your work is going to be viewed by a professional, you put more effort into making it the best it can be. A lot of students find themselves blowing off feedback they receive from their professors, but that does not happen when the person providing feedback is working in the field. I love having the added motivation of wanting to impress the guest critic, and many of my classmates feel the same way. My favorite part of this process is that it switches up the pace of the class. Wayne never fails to surprise us, and for that reason, you don’t see many people skipping his performance class. It is so much more than just a class; it’s preparation for the professional world.

Harford Community College

9 AM Heather L. Hurd 5K Spooktacular

Help us scare away distracted driving!

9:30 AM-3 PM Fall Open House Showcase Family Fun Activities Oral History Presentation Live Music, Food Trucks & more!

7 PM, Amoss Center Stayin Alive: Bee Gees Tribute

ING R U T A E F

L L A F Coming October 28!

OPESNE HOU

rena PGFCU A A e h t in

For a complete listing of our 60th anniversary events, visit

THE JASON BISHOP SHOW

NOVEMBER 5 | 3 PM

CONCERTS THEATER DANCE & MORE!

THE NUTCRACKER

DECEMBER 8 | 7 PM DECEMBER 9 | 12 & 4 PM DECEMBER 10 | 12 & 4 PM

SNOWKUS POCUS:

ENCHANT THE SPRING DECEMBER 15 | 7:30 PM

Tickets:

LIVEatHarfordCC.com @LIVEatHarfordCC

harford.edu/60

nly the beginning.

IT’S HAPPENING

401 Thomas Run Road | Bel Air, MD 21015

is o Our history

WWW.HARFORD.EDU

CAREERS

Thinking about a career in cyber?

R E B Y C

Cybersecurity professionals come from all ages, genders and backgrounds, and often include career changers.

Those proficient in the world of cybersecurity possess both technical and non-technical skills. They must be detail oriented and enjoy challenging and complex tasks in order to identify, analyze, and mitigate threats to critical systems or networks. At the same time, they must be effective communicators who are highly adaptable, collaborative and proactive.

If you are considering a career in cybersecurity, I suggest exploring the field by taking a cyber course, engaging in a cyber competition, or talking to someone in the field.

DAWN N. GRISSOM, TAACCCT GRANT PROJECT DIRECTOR, INFORMATION ASSURANCE AND CYBERSECURITY