THE
JOLLY ROGER An Annual Publication of Independence Community College
David Sanchez Featured on Page 6
Inside this issue Kiblinger honored as Distinguished Alum FirstOak Bank Launches Field House Project Student Health Center Opens in Student Union Cheer Brings Home Hardware from Regional and National Championship
2022-2023
ICC Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees members are elected by the Montgomery County voters within the college taxing district as authorized by Kansas Statutes. Chair Dr. Cynthia Sherwood, DDS Vice Chair Valorie DeFever Trustees John Eubanks Jeri Hammerschmidt Patricia Snyder Spencer Weaver
ICC Executive Leadership President Dr. Vincent Bowhay Executive Assistant & Board Clerk Cherie Stockton Vice President forAcademic Affairs Taylor Crawshaw Vice President for Administration & Finance Dr. Jonathan Sadhoo Vice President for Human Resources Lori Boots Vice President for Student Affairs David Adams Chief Marketing Officer Kris Ferguson Executive Director for ICC Foundation Bryce Saia Mission Independence Community College serves the best interests of students and the community by providing academic excellence while promoting cultural enrichment and economic development. Vision To be a community college that provides an exceptional educational experience by cultivating intellect, encouraging creativity, and enhancing character in a student and community centered environment.
| @IndependenceICC | www.indycc.edu
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INDEX THE jolly roger
in this issue...
Foundation & Alumni 3.
12.
Athletics 4.
campus news 7.
8.
9.
In the community 6.
12.
13.
Jolly Roger is the traditional English name for the flags flown to identify a pirate ship. The flag most commonly identified as the Jolly Roger today—the skull and crossbones symbol on a black flag—was used during the 1710s by a number of pirate captains including Black Sam Bellamy. The Jolly Roger is an annual publication released by Independence Community College. Please direct any questions, comments, or concerns regarding this publication and or it’s mailing to marketing@indycc.edu.
A MESSAGE FROM
DR. VINCENT BOWHAY
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Kiblinger Honored as Distinguished Alum
Stay Updated on ICC News throughout the year!
Graduation Snapshots...
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FirstOak Bank Launches Field House Project
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FirstOak Bank was honored February 15th as Independence Community College and the Foundation announced the Field House NEXT Project. “Today we announce this exciting initiative and thank FirstOak Bank and the Oakes Family for helping us launch this important project,” College President Dr. Vincent Bowhay said during the halftime presentation. “FirstOak Bank’s leadership gift and the Field House NEXT Campaign serves to kick off a $1.5 million update of the facility. It is the first major renovation in over 25 years of the field house.” “Independence is home to FirstOak Bank,” Brad Oakes, bank president, said. “We are grateful to the families and businesses we have worked with for over 20 years as we have partnered with them to build stronger and more vibrant communities. We are also proud to make this investment in the life of our college and our city.” The rehabilitation of the field house will include a new court, bleachers, lighting, and other improvements to the interior gymnasium. The men’s and women’s locker rooms, athletic training room and the lobby are slated to be updated once
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funds have been raised. The last major renovation of the field house occurred in 1987. “’The FirstOak Bank & Oakes Family Field House at Independence Community College speaks to the value and importance the Oakes Family places in our college,” Corey Hugo, ICC Foundation Board President said. “The College helps train the local and regional workforce, helps students earn certifications and degrees to start careers, is a major economic driver, and serves as a anchor of community life. Words are not sufficient to express our gratitude to the Oakes Family for making this leadership gift to launch this initiative.” According to ICC Foundation Executive Director Bryce Saia the project has benefited from several donors. “We have secured several gifts to help us reach today. Donors to this project can make pledges over a five-year period and can utilize different gift giving vehicles – gifts of cash, securities, IRA distributions and more. The involvement of alumni and friends is important as we move forward.”
Donerson named as Head Football Coach Keith Donerson has been named the new Head Football Coach of the Pirates at Independence Community College (ICC). Donerson had been serving as an Assistant Coach since 2016 and helped lead the team to three Jayhawk Conference Championships and produce over 50 Division 1 student-athletes. He brings over thirty years of coaching experience at the college and high school levels in both Kansas and California, where he helped produce 12 future NFL players. Donerson was awarded the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major for Justice Award in 2022. Athletic Director Melissa Anderson and President Vincent Bowhay praised Donerson's coaching abilities and commitment to building a culture of excellence for the Pirate football team.
pirate athletics have Successful season
The Independence Pirates had a successful year in sports with many student-athletes receiving recognition for their outstanding performances. The men's basketball team had Johan Nziemi and Kam Parker named to the All-Conference team. Valentina Ojeda from the women's basketball team was named to the All-Conference and All-Defensive Team, and set two school records. The football team had several players named to the Jayhawk All-Conference team, with Xavier Morrow and Dontez Fagan receiving First-Team honors. Second-Team honors went to Will Whitson, Dajhon "DJ" Smith, and Tyrik McDaniel. The Volleyball team had Tylor Iosua named to the Second-Team All-Conference and Kalolaine Pasikala awarded Honorable Mention. Softball Pitcher Mykala Johnico was named to the First Team, Catcher Kelly Baker was named to the Second Team, and First Baseman Emma Jones was awarded Honorable Mention. The softball team went on to represent the Pirates at the National Championship in South Carolina.
cheer brings home hardware from regional and national competitions The ICC Spirit Squads traveled to Olathe, KS on March 4th to compete in the 2023 Region 6 Cheer and Dance Competition on March 5th. The Pirates brought 8 routines total. The squads placed 3rd in Hip Hop, 3rd in Advanced Small Co-Ed and brought home the Conference Champion title in Spirit Rally. While considered a “cheer” routine, the ICC cheerleaders and dancers performed the Spirit Rally routine together which consists of a sideline chant, a crowd leading cheer and a timeout routine. This routine was the 3rd highest scoring routine out of all 11 cheer routines performed that day. The team then went on to compete at the MCDA Cheer and Dance Championship at Sea World San Antonio. They won the overall Collegiate Co-Ed Cheer Division. Coach Cope said “I am so proud of the team. We had some major changes in January which meant a lot of unexpected adjustments to all of our routines which is never easy, but the team kept an overall positive attitude and worked really hard and all their effort paid off!” @PiratesAthletics
Sport the Pirates Needing some Fan Gear? Shop your Pirate favorites HERE
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Sanchez and Family Selected for 2022 First-Generation Family of the Year Independence Community College announced The Sanchez Family as the ICC First-Generation Family of the Year. Current ICC Pirate David Sanchez and his family were recognized during the ICC Women's Basketball game on November 11. "The Sanchez family, especially David's mom, Odilia, has been instrumental in supporting his educational journey," said David Adams, Vice President for Student Affairs. "The First-Generation Family of the Year is awarded to a family that provides unwavering support to their First-Gen student. Odilia is an incredible advocate for David's education and provides positive reinforcement and unwavering support." The First-Generation Family presentation was the final activity in a week of events celebrating first-time college students on the ICC campus. "Odilia checks in with David to ensure he is eating right, providing focus when needed, and keeping the goal in mind of transferring and graduating," concluded Adams. "In addition, just this past September, the Sanchez family became citizens of the United States! The Sanchez family is an amazing example of providing unwavering support to David during his time at ICC." David contributes his college success to the support provided to him from his family and the helpful staff and faculty at the college. “They helped me with whatever I asked them,” explained Sanchez. “They all went above and beyond to help me—all I had to do was ask.”
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Sanchez served as the 2022-2023 Homecoming King and was an active member of the ICC Cheer Team and Esports Team.
2019-2022 Poet Laureate of Kansas Speaks to students at fall Graduation Huascar Medina, the 7th Poet Laureate of Kansas spoke to ICC students during the Fall 2022 Graduation Ceremony. Medina is an author and editor. He is the Lit Editor for seveneightfive magazine, creator/host of Kansas is Lit on 785live.com, a staff editor at South Broadway Press, a Sunday columnist at the Kansas Reflector, a 2022 Academy of American Poets Laureate Fellow, and a member of the National Council on the Arts. Medina has published two books of poetry; Un Mango Grows in Kansas and How to Hang the Moon. He spoke to students about confidently entering the world and making a positive impact. Mentioning that struggles and defeat do not amount failure and that everyone is capable of doing great things.
"We are proud of you, you are doing a good job and I am confident you will go on to do great things.” Huascar Medina
Currently, Medina empowers artists through professional development as an Artist Services Program Associate for Artist INC, a program of Mid-America Arts Alliance, a regional art organization serving Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and beyond.
College Honors Three at The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Awards Presentation ICC successfully hosted the esteemed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major for Justice Awards Luncheon on February 10th at the Cyber Café. This significant event aimed to acknowledge remarkable individuals who consistently demonstrate exceptional dedication in serving others, yet often remain unnoticed for their contributions. The awards were presented to deserving recipients from various categories, including one ICC student, one ICC employee, and one member of the Independence, KS community. Logan Huser, an outstanding ICC student, was recognized for his IN and HONOR OF exemplary leadership qualities compassionate nature, which greatly impact and inspire his fellow classmates. Bridget Carson, an esteemed ICC staff member, was lauded for her unwavering commitment to supporting student success and her valuable contributions as a member of the Judicial Committee. Additionally, Melissa Johnson, a remarkable community member, received well-deserved recognition for her active involvement in local organizations and her persistent efforts towards the betterment of Independence. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major for Justice Awards Luncheon served as a platform to honor these exceptional individuals and shed light on their remarkable accomplishments. ICC remains proud to celebrate their achievements and extend its gratitude for their profound contributions to the community.
STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE The ICC Strategic Plan was designed with input from a wide variety of contributors, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, industry partners, and community leaders. It is a living document. It provides a strategic framework with six key initiatives and four areas of focus to be executed by 2024.
READ MORE ABOUT OUR YEAR FOUR UPDATE
Kansas Supreme Court Justice Visits Campus
Pirates Recognized at NASPA Region IV-WE Joint Conference
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New Pathway Program Provides Opportunities for Business Graduates ¢ £ ¤ ¤ ¢ ¢¢
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Fall arts day welcomed over 200 area high school students @PiratesAthletics
MONTGOMERY STANDS OUT IN MUCH TO DO ABOUT NOTHING PRODUCTION
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Department Spotlight:
Rural Outreach Education The Rural Outreach Education Program focuses its efforts upon the improvement of the education of the students of rural and small schools in Kansas, NE Oklahoma, and the regional area served by Independence Community College. This project is made possible by funding of the Department of Education through the Rural Postsecondary Economic & Development Grant awarded to ICC in 2021. ROE Team: (Left to Right) Kathleen Cooke, Ashley Alexander, Daley Handy, Tamara Blaes
College starts title III Grant initiatives ICC began it’s transition for the recently acquired Title III Grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Education, during the spring semester. The Title III Grant consists of two major items: the ERP Transition (Ellucian Colleague) and the implementation of Supplemental Instruction at ICC. Supplemental Instruction is an academic assistance program that utilizes peer-assisted study sessions, which has been shown to raise academic achievement, persistence, and graduation rates. Currently Andrew Gutschenritter, Controller with the ICC Business Office is driving the initiative behind the grant and working with other team members across campus on trainings for the new system.“Andrew has long been recognized as a leader in accounting, resource allocation, and institutional success,” said Dr. Vincent Bowhay, President. “His ability to think differently and inspire others to do their best made Andrew a natural choice for this unique opportunity.” Gutschenritter oversees the implementation of the college’s new ERP system, a technology-based software that stores, analyzes, manages, and supervises data, leading to smoother operations and better internal communication while maintaining transparency. He will also manage the launch of several student success initiatives planned for the future. The goals of the grant are to increase the number of FTFT (full-time, full-year) students who complete degrees, certificates, and/or transfer, improve institutional systems to support student success, and improve fiscal stability through increased retention. The Title III Grant is named The Pirate Century: Creating Pathways to Student and Institutional Success for ICC’s Second Century and is funded by the U.S. Department of Education.
Record Year for College Foundation The ICC Foundation working with the College will complete its most successful year on record. “The College is headed to its 100th anniversary in 2025 and we are all proud of the success the Foundation is achieving with its return to the College campus,” said Dr. Vincent Bowhay. “The College is grateful to Corey Hugo and Foundation leadership for it renewed effort to advance philanthropy in support of the College.” Meeting with alumni and friends, sharing the Colleges needs and asking for support has become almost a weekly activity for Bowhay.
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“Working with Bryce Saia – Executive Director for the ICC Foundation, we have met with a number of individuals and groups sharing the college’s story and its impact on students and the community,” said Bowhay. “The College and Foundation both believe in communicating with alumni, friends and supporters. This Jolly Roger publication is one example. We thank all those who have spent time with us.”
Ambassador Honorable Dr. Albert Nasasagare Speaks to Campus
ICC Recognized as ALL IN Most Engaged Campuses for College Student Voting ICC has been recognized by ALL IN as a 2022 Most Engaged Campus for College Student Voting. This award recognizes colleges and universities that have made intentional efforts to increase student voter participation. ICC completed four actions to receive this recognition, including participating in the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, sharing voting data with ALL IN, submitting a democratic engagement action plan, and having a current signatory to ALL IN’s Higher Education Presidents’ Commitment to Full Student Voter Participation. The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge empowers institutions to institutionalize nonpartisan civic learning, political engagement, and voter participation on their campus. It currently engages over 9 million students from more than 950 institutions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Ambassador Dr. Albert Nasasagare spoke at the ICC Main Campus about the importance of integrity and good character for young adults. He currently serves as Special Advisor to President Evariste Ndayishimiye and previously worked as Deputy Chief of Staff in Charge of Protocol for President Pierre Nkurunziza. Dr. Nasasagare is also the founder of the Youth Coalition in Action (YCA), which provides vocational training and micro-loans for job creators in communities. He promotes mindset transformation, environmental protection, education reforms, and ethical and humanism values, among other things.
‘Tree Campus Higher Education’ Recognition The college has received a "2022 Tree Campus Higher Education" recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation. This program honors colleges and universities for effective forest management and engaging staff and students in conservation goals. ICC met the program's five standards, including maintaining a tree advisory committee, a campus tree-care plan, annual expenditures for its tree program, an Arbor Day observance, and a student service-learning project. Currently, 403 campuses across the US have this recognition. ICC is continuing its tree-related projects, including tree inventory and the removal of invasive species like Callery and Bradford Pears. The campus uses trees as a classroom and benefits from reduced cooling costs and improved water management and biodiversity.
At ICC, we believe that education happens at all ages. Indy Connect is a community education program that serves as an umbrella for all community outreach programs.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON COMMUNITY COURSES PLEASE CONTACT: ALLIE KASHKA | akashka@indycc.edu
Former ICC Professor Inspires Alum to Endow Scholarship Gary Mitchell, an ICC alum, former faculty, and active pirate community member, made his appearance on stage at The William Inge Theatre on Thursday, December 1, during the ICC Fine Arts matinee performance of OUR TOWN. Mitchell plays the same role on the stage he performed on 20 years ago. After completing his education, he returned to campus and taught theatre and English for the next 31 years. He is now retired and enjoys participating in theatre performances on the ICC stage. Dedicating himself to education and his students, Mitchell touched the lives of thousands, Everett Falder being one of them. Falder, currently living in Kentucky, attended ICC in 1974-75; he was a student-athlete on the football team and a theatre enthusiast. His enthusiasm for his college success was driven, in part, by his previous English Professor, Gary Mitchell. "College opened a new world to me," said Falder. "It brought special people into my life. Gary is one of those people." This impact inspired Everett to help endow the 'Gary Mitchell Endowed Scholarship Fund' through the Independence Community College Foundation. "I would share with every student at Independence that faculty members do care about you," explained Falder. "They want you to learn and explore to be successful in life. Gary made a positive impact and difference in my life."
Crawshaw Selected for Farm Talk’s 40 Under 40 ICC is pleased to announce Taylor and Alfred Crawshaw have been selected for Farm Talk's 40 under 40 list for their work with Crawshaw Family Farms. Taylor Crawshaw currently serves as the Vice President for Academic Affairs at ICC. This prestigious recognition celebrates the Crawshaws' dedication, leadership, and impact on the agricultural industry. The Farm Talk's 40 under 40 program is an annual event that recognizes outstanding individuals under the age of 40 who have made a significant impact in their respective fields. The program received thousands of nominations from across the agricultural sector, and Crawshaw's selection highlights the hard work and dedication that Crawshaw Family Farms has put into the industry. "Alfred and I are honored to be named with our peers as part of Farm Talk's 40 under 40," said Taylor Crawshaw. "We work hard to advocate for agriculture and our rural communities. We are proud to call Southeast Kansas our home, and we look forward to continuing to grow our operation and helping people learn how important agriculture is to the economy." The selection for Farm Talk's 40 under 40 is a testament to the innovative approach and commitment that the Crawshaws have made towards the agricultural sector, specifically crop and cattle production.
event Spotlight:
ICC appreciation brunch The college played host to administrators, counselors and student support staff from 11 area high schools during the ICC Appreciation Brunch. Those in attendance had the opportunity to learn about ICC programs and services, including ICC Now, SEK Leadership Competition, Academic Accommodations, Financial Aid, Technical Programs, Student Services, and more.
quick news ICC West hosted to over 50 students who participated in Cosmetology Day on April 3, 2023. “Cosmetology Day was an in depth look into the program where potential students can see hands on skills that will be taught,” explains Chelsey Bailey, Director of Cosmetology. “They were able to hear from instructors, sales reps, graduates of the program and current students about all the different employment opportunities that are available once you receive your cosmetology license.”
Student Health Center Opens in Student Union In partnership with Labette Health, ICC opened an on-campus healthcare center to ICC students, faculty, and staff. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the ICC Student Health Center took place on November 11, 2022, in the Student Union. “Labette Health is excited for the opportunity to partner with Independence Community College to provide quality health care to students and staff at our new on-campus medical clinic,” said Anthony Vaughan, VP of Business Development and Foundation Executive Director at Labette Health. The Student Health Center allows ICC students, faculty, and staff to seek medical attention for minor ailments on campus. Students can consult with a certified healthcare professional. The center is located on the upper level on the student union by the ICC Cafeteria and Cyber Café, the center is open and actively seeing patients. “Being able to offer students health care services on campus is a crucial step in student success at ICC,” explained David Adams, Vice President for Student Affairs. “Struggling with health ailments can be a huge barrier for students; I hope the Student Health Center gives students a sense of ease during a potentially stressful time of being sick or hurt away from home.”
Independence Community College is pleased to announce the college has earned a Military Friendly® School designation for the 2023-2024 Academic Year. The college received a silver designation. "Since the Military Friendly Schools survey is the longest-running, most comprehensive, and most respected review and analysis of colleges and universities serving veteran and military-affiliated students in the country," said Tommy Ellis, Director of Veteran Student Success. "The designation of ICC as a military-friendly school for the 2nd year in a row, 2022-2024, is especially gratifying."
ICC welcomed two new members to its Board of Trustees: Patricia Snyder and Spencer Weaver. Snyder, a retired attorney with experience working with the FDIC, brings a deep connection to Independence and a passion for helping the community and college thrive. Weaver, an educator with a background in curriculum and instruction, is excited to use his skills to serve ICC and its students. Both are valued additions to the Board and will help lead the college towards continued success.
The college is proud to be Certified™ by Great Place to Work® for the 2nd year in a row. The prestigious award is based entirely on what current employees say about their experience working at ICC. This year, 81% of employees said it’s a great place to work – 24 points higher than the average U.S. company.
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JOLLY ROGER
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