We are Jackson College - November 2016

N OV E M BE R 2 0 1 6 | VOLU ME 3 ISSUE 2

SCHOLARSHIPS help students find success

Students appreciate the valuable support that Jackson College Foundation scholarships provide!

Foundation scholarships play a vital role in helping students meet the cost of college, offering them hope for a future.

The Jackson College Foundation partners with donors to remove the financial barriers that may prevent students from pursuing higher education. Jason Valente, foundation president, states that while Jackson College tuition may be modest by some standards, many students simply could not afford to attend without scholarship support. Scholarship funds help to take away some of the financial worries and burdens that students may face and offer them peace of mind to focus on their studies.

Since its creation in 1982, the Foundation has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships to thousands of students, most of whom still reside in our service area and make our community what it is today. Last year, scholarships helped 336 students further their educational dreams with $333,490 in assistance.

Numerous area residents, businesses and organizations provide funds for scholarships. These endowed scholarships are available to students based on criteria set by individual donors, with awards for various majors and student groups, such as first-generation college students.

Learn more about three Jackson College students currently benefitting from Foundation scholarships.

Yashar Tukhfatullin Born in Uzbekistan in Central Asia, Yashar Tukhfatullin immigrated to the United States in 2008 to be with his mother. He attended and graduated from Concord High School, and friends recommended Jackson College as a great place to start. While he speaks four languages, he had to work hard to improve his English. With much reading and study, he has improved his language skills and found success at Jackson College.

“It’s been pretty amazing. I’ve met a lot of really good friends and awesome teachers who have helped me and guided me these three years,” Tukhfatullin said. While studying at the Center for Student Success, he noticed a friend, Ryan Scott, completing a scholarship application online and asked about it. “He said ‘It’s free money, you should apply!’” With the help of CSS staff, he completed the application and essay. He received the J. Sterling Wickwire Scholarship.

“They have really helped. I’m a little in debt because I’ve had to take out loans, but this semester, I actually had no loans and was able to pay for all my classes. It really helps when you don’t have to borrow as much.”

Tukhfatullin plans to go into computer science and electrical engineering. He has completed an Associate of Science degree and plans to complete a certificate in engineering fundamentals before transferring to the University of Michigan to complete a bachelor’s degree.

“The Foundation is a really outstanding place to help students and make the future bright and succeed.”

Wickwire Scholarship The J. Sterling Wickwire Memorial Scholarship recognizes the brightest and best of Jackson College students. The award carries on Wickwire’s legacy of leadership, community connections and ardent support of higher education.

Grace Biddinger Grace Biddinger set one important goal for college – to graduate debt-free. With the help of Jackson College Foundation scholarships, she is on track to meet her goal!

Biddinger was home schooled and when it was time for college, she chose Jackson College because it was close to home and affordable. She’s been responsible for paying her own college costs, and she does work part-time. This semester, she received the Erma Biedermann Scholarship, and another from an outside agency, which helps to take the pressure off when the bills are due.

“Being a home schooled student, I didn’t have a lot of scholarships that I could apply for academically,” Biddinger said. “For me, the Jackson College Foundation was great. I didn’t have to specifically hunt for a bunch of different scholarships; you just apply and are considered for all.”

She is currently completing general studies and plans to transfer to Western Michigan University, possibly to study business management. Her experience at Jackson College has been very positive.

“I love Jackson College. I walk in and people know me, they say ‘Hi Grace,” they greet you and are very friendly,” Biddinger said. “I’ve gotten to know my professors very well, and they’ve been very supportive of me. It’s been a good experience.”

Bidermann Scholarship Erma E. Biedermann Scholarship of the Comerica Legacy Foundation is available to all Jackson County residents who are full-time students and demonstrate a financial need.

Megan Rinesmith Megan Rinesmith works part-time and attends Jackson College. Scholarship assistance from the Yeakey Scholarship helps tremendously.

Rinesmith, originally from Ann Arbor, relocated to Jackson when her mother got married. Wanting to stay local, she applied and was accepted to Jackson College on a family member’s recommendation. She is completing her associate degree in business administration with a concentration in financial services, and currently works parttime with a credit union.

“Since I didn’t qualify for financial aid, I had to start working,” Rinesmith said. “It’s hard to balance everything. Scholarships really help.”

Student success navigator Melissa Potter urged her to fill out a Foundation scholarship application. “I would definitely suggest every student apply for scholarships, all that you can. Especially for me who didn’t qualify for financial aid, if you can get as many scholarships as you can, it will really help.

“Jackson College is a really good college to go to, and the scholarships are beyond helpful,” Rinesmith said. “Everyone that works here is very helpful; they go above and beyond to make sure you pass all your classes and succeed.”

Upon graduation, she plans to find a full-time job. In the future, she plans to transfer on to Siena Heights University to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Yeakey Scholarship The Yeakey Scholarship is available to Jackson County residents in any field of study.

Preference is given to family members of Camp International employees.

November 2016

5

Why Timing Matters in Giving

African American Male Summit to focus on education Jackson College invites the community to come together for the third annual African American Male Summit, Nov. 17-18 in the Bert Walker Community Rooms (144 & 145).

To qualify for a tax benefit on your gift to Jackson College, (when you itemize deductions on your income tax return), you must make your gift

by Dec. 31. The gift date -- the date used for tax purposes -- is the day you transfer control of the asset. Here are the gift dates by type.

• Securities - If securities are electronically transferred, the gift date is typically the day the securities enter our account.

If securities are mailed, the mailing date is the gift date. It is important to send, by registered or certified mail, the unsigned certificates in a separate envelope from the signed stock power and letter of intent.

Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu Noted Author and Speaker

• Real estate - The day you deliver the signed deed to us is the date of the gift. If your state law requires recording of the deed to fulfill the title, though, then the date of recording is the gift date.

• Life income gifts - Signed contract date at the time of your donation.

• Life insurance - Date signed on paperwork transferring ownership to our organization, assuming you properly forward the form onto the insurance company.

• Artwork and other tangible personal property -­The day you deliver the property with a signed document transferring ownership, if necessary.

“These are complex challenges that African American males face, and they require collaborative solutions,” said Lee Hampton, director of multicultural affairs at Jackson College. “We strongly encourage educators and parents, and community leaders, to attend.”

Daniel J. Phelan President, Jackson College

Lee Hampton Director of Multicultural Affairs, Jackson College

• Checks - The mailing date is the date of the gift.

For more information contact the Jackson College Foundation at 517. 787.0244 or online at www.jccmi.edu/ JacksonCollegeFoundation.

This year’s event will continue gathering input on ways to help more African American males succeed. This summit will focus exclusively on education, from kindergarten through college, K-16. Previous summits have also examined the penal system and family structure. African American males have struggled to find success in education, with significant achievement gaps when compared to whites. This summit will explore how to close those achievement gaps, increase preparedness for college and improve retention and graduation rates. Participants will also explore partnerships between K-12 and colleges in areas such as mentoring and tutoring males of color.

Jeff Beal Superintendent, Jackson Public Schools

Thursday evening will begin with a keynote at 6 p.m. by noted author and speaker Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu. He has written 33 books, including: “Black Students: Middle Class Teachers,” “Keeping Black Boys out of Special Education,” and “Understanding Black Male Learning Styles.” He has been a guest speaker at universities throughout the U.S. and consulted with many urban school districts.

College President Dr. Daniel J. Phelan and Jackson Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Beal will present Thursday night. On Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon, Kunjufu will again speak. Participants will work in guided dialogues to seek solutions to the challenges African American males face, such as lack of parental support, truancy, financial hardship and so on.

The College will create an executive report of finding after the event, which will be available to schools, colleges and community.

For more information or to reserve a seat, call 517.796.8470. Dinner Thursday evening will cost $20.

6

We Are Jackson College

Jackson College receives ‘veteran-friendly’ gold status Serving those who have served our nation, Jackson College is committed to the success of student veterans. The College recently earned gold-level status from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency for 2016-17 as a “veteran-friendly” school.

The Veteran-Friendly School program recognizes institutions of higher learning for their dedication to student veterans and dependents utilizing their GI Bill and other educational benefits. “Jackson College is committed to helping our student veterans make a successful transition to their academic life,” said Dr. Kristi Hottenstein, vice president of student services.

In the renovated Bert Walker Hall, a Veterans Resource Center offers students a welcoming and convenient location to meet and seek assistance. The College Elizabeth Snell, veterans affairs school certifying official welcomed a new veterans and Randall Locke, veterans resource representative resource representative this fall, Randall Locke. Locke spent his military career in the U.S. Marine Corps and recently served as a senior academic advisor (military) at the University of Phoenix. “I had what I considered a great career. Uncle Sam was very good to me,” Locke said. “This is my way of not only staying connected, but also giving back.”

Jackson College’s strong program attracted Locke. He realizes the challenges veterans face in leaving the military environment and returning home, where everything has changed. “They become very used to a different existence in the military. That transition can be traumatic for many.”

College partners with Michigan Works Southeast to offer College and GED Preparation Jackson College and Michigan Works Southeast are partnering to bring GED and College Preparation classes to the tri-county area.

A new adult education partnership will offer classes at Jackson College campuses in Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale counties, including:

• GED® Preparation

• High School Completion

• Basic Skills Remediation

• English as a Second Language

• EL Civics and Citizenship (for non-native English speakers) These web-based classes are free to those who qualify and offer open enrollment, flexible scheduling and individual instruction. Courses have been aligned with Jackson College’s Foundation Studies program to allow a smooth transition.

For more information, visit mwse.org/education.

Call, e-mail or come into a Michigan Works location or Jackson College’s Central Campus, Jackson College @ LISD TECH in Adrian or the Clyde LeTarte Center in Hillsdale to begin the enrollment process today. Visit www.hillsdaleadulteducation.weebly.com/enroll or e-mail adulteducation@mwse.org.

To help students make that transition, the College has a Student Veterans of America organization, which provides connection and networking opportunities. A dedicated staff member, Elizabeth Snell -- herself the wife of a veteran -assists student veterans with their education benefits. Career coaching and advising is offered.

Locke sees his role as helping all military-connected students find success in college and into the next phase of their lives while helping college personnel better understand veterans.

“I feel as though the position is kind of a liaison both ways, educating students and helping the faculty and staff to understand this diverse group. I enjoy working with them, they’re my people.”

- Randall Locke, veteran resource representative November 2016

7

New drone certificate program taking off this winter for anything other than recreational purposes.

This may impact businesses, agriculture, real estate agents, law enforcement, photographers and more. The course will cover information

“This one license will give someone a lot of possible opportunities.”

What’s that overhead? It’s a bird, it’s a plane -- no, wait, it’s a drone!

Unmanned aerial systems, or drones, are common today. The Federal Aviation Administration requires drone pilots to earn a Remote Pilot Certificate. Prepare for that certification exam with a new class starting this winter at Jackson College.

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) 101 will offer instruction for those using drones weighing from one-half pound to 55 pounds

- Matt Higgins, instructor necessary to pass the FAA written test on regulations, rules of the airspace system, operations and categories of unmanned aerial systems, and offer simulations on campus.

The College will use a Phantom DJI4 and ARDrone 2.0.

“This one license will give someone a lot of possible opportunities,” said Instructor Matt Higgins, a pilot who is certified for drones.

“Students will have the opportunity to fly a couple types of drones in our laboratory component. It will be helpful for the certification test.”

The class will be offered in the evenings this winter semester. For those hoping to earn a credential, a skill set option is available. For course times, visit www.jccmi.edu.

Former Jets baseball player thankful for Jackson College experience Tim Duffy gained a valuable education as a student and athlete at Jackson College. Now he’s sharing his experience with younger students where he grew up, serving as athletic director at his high school alma mater, Carleton Airport High.

Coach Rick Smith recruited Duffy to play on the first baseball team in 2006 after sports were reinstated. He played and attended through 2008.

“I did a lot of growing up at Jackson College.

I wasn’t ready to attend a big four-year school right out of high school. Being just an hour away from home at a smaller school with smaller class sizes was very helpful,” Duffy said. “Of course, as soon as I stepped on campus, I had 25-30 friends who were baseball players.”

8

We Are Jackson College

The transition from high school to college wasn’t difficult for Duffy because he had played three sports throughout high school.

He made a conscious effort to always get to class on time, sit in front, introduce himself and make sure his teachers knew who he was. In addition to playing baseball, he ran the scoreboard at basketball games and worked with former athletic director Steve Bloomfield. Bloomfield played a big role in Duffy’s career path. He completed his bachelor’s degree in sports management and master’s degree in athletic administration.

“Jackson College helped set me up for the future. I was able to go there and get a scholarship, which kept my students loans down. As a result, I was able to pay for my master’s program out of pocket.”

Duffy has stayed in touch with Smith and with athletics coordinator Katie Fall, whom he said welcomed him with open arms. He has come full circle now -- as a high school athletic director, he now refers recruits to his past coach.

“I definitely promote community college athletics. You can get school credits at a reasonable cost and play sports at a high level.

It’s well-organized and a great opportunity.”

Alumni & Foundation

UPDATE

Professor’s impact on college to continue in retirement Professor Martha Petry will step away from the classroom and retire at the end of this semester, but she won’t be leaving Jackson College completely!

campaign, Be Bold for Maroon and Gold. With her passion, employee giving increased and this year, an employee-funded scholarship has been created.

Petry decided it was time for a change after nearly 40 years of teaching. Popular with students, in 2011 she received Jackson College’s highest honor for an educator, the J. Ward Preston Outstanding Faculty Award.

“I like creating classroom environments that are enlivened by joyous discovery and creative curiosity. I have a foundational belief that everything that has given us delight in learning occurred while we were having fun,” she said. “We learn best in positive environments.”

“I hope to promote the sincerity and depth of the faculty’s commitment to students,” she said. Many retired faculty, like she soon will be, may be ready to make more of a financial commitment to the College.” She hopes to connect with Jackson College retirees and convey how the Jackson College Foundation is truly committed to helping student’s succeed.”

Student Kayla Muraski said Petry’s class was always fun, exciting and challenging. “There was never a dull moment. There will never be a teacher quite like Martha,” she said.

Under Petry’s leadership as faculty advisor, Jackson College’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society chapter has excelled, becoming one of the top chapters in the nation. She will continue leading the group as well as give workshops on writing scholarship essays, transfer essays, recommendation letters and more. She has taught English, humanities, literature, dance, freshman-year seminar, chaired the Foundation Studies and Language, Literature, and Arts departments and has been active in numerous campus committees and initiatives. Retirement will offer a chance to get back to her own love, writing poetry, memoir, and undertaking visual journaling.

Petry’s passion for education led her to service on the Board of Directors of the Jackson College Foundation. She spearheaded efforts for the employee fundraising

The poem at right reflects Petry’s own commitment to service.

We are pleased to present this Jackson College Alumni & Foundation Update.

In these pages you will find news of Jackson College alumni and events, updates from the Foundation and much more!

“To Be of Use”

By Marge Piercy The people I love the best jump into work head first without dallying in the shallows and swim off with sure strokes almost out of sight.

They seem to become natives of that element, the black sleek heads of seals bouncing like half-submerged balls.

I love people who harness themselves, an ox to a heavy cart, who pull like water buffalo, with massive patience, who strain in the mud and the muck to move things forward, who do what has to be done, again and again.

I want to be with people who submerge in the task, who go into the fields to harvest and work in a row and pass the bags along, who are not parlor generals and field deserters but move in a common rhythm when the food must come in or the fire be put out.

The work of the world is common as mud.

Botched, it smears the hands, crumbles to dust.

But the thing worth doing well done has a shape that satisfies, clean and evident.

Greek amphoras for wine or oil, Hopi vases that held corn, are put in museums but you know they were made to be used.

The pitcher cries for water to carry.

History project spurs new endowed chair History continues to come alive at Jackson College!

Over the years, Professor Diana Agy has guided students through history projects in Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale counties. Students have interviewed more than 100 residents, collecting stories, photos and artifacts and compiling displays, videos, books and more.

The Jackson College Foundation supported these oral history projects from the start. Now, the Foundation is again recognizing their importance with the creation of the Jackson College Center for Regional History at the W.J. Maher Campus, and with the support of donor Peggy Maher, establishing the Peggy Maher Endowed Chair for Regional History.

Peggy Maher is the daughter of the late William Maher, namesake of Jackson College’s newest campus. “History is very important. If we don’t know the past and who’s shoulders we stand on, how can we create the future?” she said. “Professor Agy and her students have 10 years’ experience collecting the history and stories of the area. She has made history come alive and interesting to the students of Jackson College and for the community it serves. The Jackson College Center for Regional History gives back to the community and shapes the way we think about life.”

Agy will be the Peggy Maher Endowed Chair for Regional History, reporting to the Jackson College Foundation and President Jason Valente. Agy appreciates the affirmation the new recognition brings to both the project and the liberal arts. “I’m surprised and honored,” Agy said. ““The College is acknowledging the importance of the liberal arts – writing, research, history, music--and that is important.”

Community members and volunteers work side-by-side with students on the projects. “They (students) represent Jackson College at the broadest levels. They have presented at breakfast meetings with business leaders, they have hosted family and friends and welcomed the community,” Agy said.

“Our alumni even continue to come back and stay in touch.”

Creation of an endowed chair will allow Agy to continue to provide leadership to the program, providing operational support for the projects and professional development for the chair. It also provides funding for community outreach and engagement.

Agy has taught at Jackson College since 2005. She is the recipient of the Evans Strand Peace Award for Outstanding Work with Diversity Education; the Gerri Collins Award for Outstanding Service; the Margaret Rossiter Award for Outstanding Writer; and the Alfred Lewis Memorial Prize in Theater History. She is a published author and has presented at various state and national conferences.

History lives at with creation Students this fall are busy with the latest history project which involves the history of families here in Jackson County. It explores the friendship between two Jackson Junior College students – William Maher and his friend, the late Zenith Pond.

Students have been researching old family letters, journals, photographs and public records to write the story of the past of these local families. They will put together a video documentary about the family histories, and Agy said they would like to create a historical quilt. They will create a display to be shown at Jackson College as well as the Jackson District Library.

Students gain valuable experience with the history projects.

They have scanned 2,000 items to share with the public – photos, letters, ledgers, articles and more. All the while, they learn about original source material, boost their writing and communication skills. They learn about their history, improve academic skills like writing and research, and boost important skills that go beyond the classroom – communicating, working with others, prioritizing, organizing and offering volunteer service.

Student Madisyn Clark of Jackson worked on a Jackson District Library project with Agy. “I worked on that project because I was just starting college and I told myself that I had to break out of my shell and do something different. I had such a blast

Jackson College of new center

Oral History Projects

working on that project and meeting so many new people that when Mrs. Agy brought up this history project, I jumped right on it.

2014-15 150 Years of Libraries in Jackson County

• Twelve oral histories

• Work displayed at Ella Sharp Museum in Jackson, MI

• Film and booklet

• Celebration

“These projects have truly made me a new person. I have made new friends along the way and have most definitely broken out of my shell. Not only has my involvement in these projects changed me as a person, but I have learned so many things along the way. I never knew anything about primary sources before, now I can cite them in a paper and handle them properly.”

Student Jacob Dangler, a lifelong resident of Jackson, said he’d always been interested in learning more about his hometown and about how the early settlers survived, especially without modern technology. “Being a part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience has been an honor. Working with not only the fabulous Mrs. Agy and Lynne Loftis (volunteer and former executive director of the Ella Sharp Museum), but my other peers at Jackson College, has been a pleasure. Meeting new people that have a common interest is encouraging as well.”

Student Matthew Russell is starting the project this fall semester. “This is an opportunity to learn about the city where I live in. It’s a new opportunity that really caught my attention.”

2016-17 Pioneer Families (Maher - Tearney)

• Oral history interviews

• Multi-family Genealogy

• Genealogy Quilt

• Spring 2017 Film Release & Celebration

2013-14 Adrian Michigan Red Cross Oral

History Project

• Collection of 25 oral histories now housed in the Lenawee County

• County Historical Museum and Adrian Library system

• Work displayed in Lenawee County Historical Museum

• Booklet and celebration

• NOTE: Conducted research for the Jackson Red Cross

• Exhibit

2011-12 Yeager Family Archiving Project,

Jackson, MI

• Students sorted, labeled, archived, and recorded 20th century artifacts

• Donated over 100 items to the Ella Sharp Museum

• Artifacts archived 2010-11 Jackson During the Great Depression:

Traveling Museum and Oral History Project

• Collection of 20 oral histories now housed in the Jackson County Library System

• Work displayed at Carnegie Library, Jackson, MI (summer)

• Work displayed at Ella Sharp Museum in Jackson, MI (fall)

• Booklet and celebration 2009-10 Mrs. Stocks Park Oral History Project,

Hillsdale, MI

• Collection of 15 oral histories now housed in Hillsdale Historical & Library systems

• Film and celebration 2009-10 Cascades Sparks Museum Renovation Project

• Revitalized the entire Sparks Museum in Jackson, MI

• Catalog created and celebration 2008-09 Cascades Oral History Project, Jackson, MI

• Collection of 22 oral histories part of the Jackson County Library System

• Film created and celebration 2007-08 Library of Congress Veterans History Project

Jackson College

• Collection of 22 oral histories: Some housed in the Library of Congress Database

• Film created and celebration

In memory Jackson College and the Jackson College Foundation remember the contributions of Foundation Board of Directors Chair The Honorable Charles A. Nelson.

We are saddened by his passing this August and will miss not only his generous service but also his thoughtful and caring personality.

He held a deep sense of community responsibility and served tirelessly in all he did.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family.

Those wishing to make a memorial in his honor please consider a contribution to the Charles A. Nelson Scholarship held at the Jackson College Foundation.

Feast for Knowledge celebrates the USA Friends of Jackson College came out to celebrate a Starry, Starry Night Across America Feast for Knowledge in August.

Proceeds from the Jackson College Foundation gala support Jackson College students and this year’s event raised $34,380.

Guests enjoyed an evening of American fare from across the 50 states. In addition to the evening’s dinner, individuals had the opportunity to bid on a number of private dinners held throughout the year, hosted by College friends and supporters.

Guests were also treated to the music of Benny Poole and Jackson College’s own crooner, Matthew Walch.

Proceeds help fund student scholarships at Jackson College and benefit the Harriet Myer Student Emergency Fund.

Last year, scholarships helped 336 students further their educational dreams with $333,490 in assistance. Students have shared that their scholarship funds make a significant difference to their college experience, helping them to focus on their studies.

The Foundation wishes to say thanks to our attendees and a this year’s sponsors.

Jets 2016 Golf Outing The Fourth Annual Jackson College Jets Golf Outing Sept. 10 at Lakeland Hills Golf Course raised $11,322 for Jets athletics, with 112 golfers participating. This marked the most money raised and the largest number of golfers in the event’s history, said Rick Smith, baseball coach, assistant athletic director and director of athletic development. Money raised will help the athletic department purchase equipment for teams, repair some outdated equipment and improve signage at outdoor facilities.

Jet athletics wishes to thank the following sponsors: Dan Bailey Soccer School DBSS; Bailey Excavating, Inc.; Paul Bastien; Frank Beck Chevrolet; Bell Chevrolet/Cadillac; Braun’s; Dave & Cynthia Clark; Raymond Clark, DDS; Comtronics; CVS Pharmacy; DJI Associates, Inc.; Express Machine; Extreme Dodge; Finally Friday Payroll Services; Gee Farms; Hillsdale Terminal; Jackson Monument Works; JR Specified Systems; Glen & Julie McCoy; McDonald Commercial Roofing Co.; Michigan Pipe & Valve; O & W, Inc.; Polly’s Country Market; Richmond Brothers; Student Suites; Surburban Lanes; The Mower Medic; Trudell’s Auto Service; Vision Collision; Walton Insurance Group; West Point Lounge; Jim Winter Auto Group.

Leighton-Gamel recognized for work with first-generation students Connecting with today’s college students has been the focus of Jackson College Professor Amelia (Amy) Leighton-Gamel.

As the population of students seeking higher education continues to expand, colleges need to find new ways to relate. National statistics for community colleges reveal that just over a third, 36 percent, of students are the first in their families to go to college. Sometimes, these students who have little experience or

“It was a great college experience with her as an instructor.

She offered help when you needed it. She’s very active with us and she really cared about us,”

- Darius McCarty-Hodges, Jackson College student

family background with the college have a difficult time sorting through the processes and behavior expectations of college – what are registration and financial aid about?

Will I know anyone in my classes? Will my instructors get to know me? Working with faculty and staff who may look different than them can be a challenge – 84 percent of teaching faculty nationwide are white, yet many first-generation students are students of color.

Knowing how to engage this increasing group and help them find success in college has become Leighton-Gamel’s passion. She has presented at the College for fellow faculty many times, as well as at educational events across the area. She will present at the Achieving the Dream annual conference in February. Achieving the Dream is a national initiative to improve student success that Jackson College has been part of for several years now.

She makes sure she gets to know her students, letting them know her and one another. “I want to know who they are as people, not just as students,” Leighton-Gamel said. “I respect my students and engage with them with compassion and empathy.”

Students appreciate her efforts to engage and create a community within the classroom.

Students stay in her classes because of the community, even when they are doing poorly.

“It was a great college experience with her as an instructor. She offered help when you needed it. She’s very active with us and she really cared about us,” said Darius McCartyHodges, a student who had Leighton-Gamel for English.

Also a published author, she is currently finishing a book about retaining first generation, underserved students due out in 2017. Her previous publications discuss ways to develop college readers in all content areas.

Employees give back Jackson College employees gave back to their community at a fall service day in October.

About 170 employees volunteered to serve in all of the nine Jackson Public Schools elementary schools, as well as the Cascades Humane Society.

• Bennett Elementary School • Cascades School • Dibble Elementary School • Frost Elementary School • JPS Montessori • Sharp Park Academy • Northeast Elementary School • McCulloch Elementary School • Hunt Elementary School • Cascades Humane Society

14

We Are Jackson College

Marketing director recognized, team nets 9 Medallions Congratulations to Dotty Karkheck and the Marketing and Communications staff on their recent honors at the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations District 3 Conference. NCMPR District 3 includes Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and parts of Ontario.

Director of Marketing Dotty Karkheck was named Communicator of the Year for the district. One of the most prestigious awards presented to an NCMPR member, the Communicator award recognizes a two-year college marketing, public relations or communications professional who has demonstrated leadership in the area of college communications and marketing. Karkheck has

“Being recognized for outstanding achievement by the NCMPR organization is very exciting. Attending district and national NCMPR conferences allows our staff the opportunity to collaborate, benchmark and socialize with their peers.

We constantly try to keep up-to-date so that we can advance the community college mission.”

been director of marketing with the College since 2002. In recent years, she provided leadership in a website redesign and been a champion for embracing new trends in marketing, investing significant resources into areas such as digital and social media.

The NCMPR Medallion competition recognizes outstanding achievement in communications at community and technical colleges. Jackson College staff received: • Gold Medallions: Website; Electronic College Annual Report; Electronic Newsletter “This Week at Jackson College”; Newsletter “We Are Jackson College” • Silver Medallions: Interior Signage/ Displays, Jets Hangar Interior Signage; Social Media or Online Marketing Campaign “Start Here, Go Anywhere”; Sports Brochure or Program, Men’s Baseball Media Guide; Notes/Cards/ Invitation, Starry Night invitation

JULY 2016 | VOLUME 3 ISSUE 1

• Bronze Medallions: Social Media or Online Marketing Campaign, “Why Go to College”

- Dotty Karkheck, director of marketing and communications

Pictured left to right, the College’s marketing team is comprised of: Ashley Banks, web designer/graphic designer; Marilynn Fryer, writer; Dotty Karkheck, director of marketing and communications; Del Belcher, social media specialist; and Abbie Stein, graphic designer.

November 2016

15

New partnership will welcome Chinese students to Jackson Jackson College has partnered with Guangdong Technical College of Water Resources and Electric Engineering of Guangdong, China to welcome Chinese students to Jackson.

The two parties have formed a joint international college collaboration, a “2+1” program. Chinese students will study at the Guangdong college for the first two years, and then transfer to Jackson for one year. Students will study associate degree programs in areas such as energy systems technology, electronic technology/microcomputer and advanced manufacturing. Students who complete all requirements will receive their degree, and may receive a graduation certificate from the Chinese college.

Faculty exchanges and training will ensure that the students in both schools are receiving an equivalent education. Currently, there are 48 students enrolled in these related programs, and Chinese officials estimate about 25 of them will decide to do their last year with Jackson, which will begin in fall 2018. Jackson students will have opportunities for short-term exchanges to China also.

College food pantry helps students make ends meet In its continuing commitment to help students find success, Jackson College has established a food pantry for students in need.

More and more on college campuses, as students struggle with costs, concern about food is growing. A summer 2015 survey revealed that 21 percent of Jackson students skipped three to five meals a week, and 27 percent of students had already utilized a food pantry before. Faced with the need, the College created a food pantry in fall 2015.

Food pantry intern Tia Newsom and TRiO Director Melissa Merkel.

“This food pantry shows that Jackson College is 100 percent committed to see that they have what they need to be successful inside and outside of the classroom, and that we care,” Melissa Merkel, director of the TRiO Student Success Program who also helps oversee the food pantry.

Since the pantry’s creation, the Jackson College community has raised 3,100 pounds of food. The pantry distributed more than 2,700 pounds of food to 105 individuals. The pantry stocks non-perishable food items, including but not limited to canned fruit and vegetables, breakfast foods, juices, pasta & pasta sauce, crackers, snacks and more. Baby food has been donated for students who are parents. The pantry accepts personal hygiene products as well.

“This is a wonderful partnership that directly supports the College’s internationalization efforts,” said Provost Rebekah Woods. “It includes the opportunity for us to learn from each other through faculty and student exchanges. We will also have the opportunity to welcome their students to our college to complete their programs here in Jackson.”

Employees and student support the pantry with 12 “food-raising” events throughout the year. A small group of employees volunteer their time to run the pantry. Students contact an e-mail address and arrange a time to meet with a volunteer.

“Students can be the best student that they can be without having to worry about where their next meal might be coming from,” Merkel said. “The food pantry helps take some of the worry away.”

Celebrating Bert Walker Hall Bert Walker Hall was built in 1971 and was named for Bert H. Walker, who was one of the original trustees of Jackson Community College. In August, the College celebrated the renovation and rededication of Bert Walker Hall in time for fall semester classes. Walker Hall now serves as a “front door� of Jackson College. The building houses all student support services, large community meeting rooms, classrooms and more. Check it out!

November 2016

17

CAMPUS UPDATES W.J. Maher Campus

Jackson College @ LISD TECH

Hillsdale Clyde LeTarte Center

Students can get ready for the winter semester at W.J. Maher Campus!

Maher Campus will conduct all-in-one course placement, new student orientation and advising sessions in preparation for the winter semester, which begins Jan. 16.

Meeting with a student success navigator is an important step for all students. From new student orientation to selecting an academic program, planning for transfer, getting ready for graduation, and each step along the way, the student success navigator can help guide students so they complete their goals.

Navigator Melissa Potter is eager to meet with new and returning students to help them through their college experience.

• Student success workshops on “Connecting Flights – Where are you going after Jackson College?” will be held from noon-1 p.m. Nov. 15 and from 5-6 p.m. Nov. 16. This workshop is designed to discuss educational opportunities beyond Jackson College and what it takes to get there.

The JC/LISD Academy students showed high marks on the SAT test in 2016!

Jackson College is partnering with the Hillsdale County Intermediate School District to offer special education students information about college and careers.

•

Maher Campus also offers conference and event space available for rental, with seating for up to 300. A variety of room sizes and styles for groups and events of all types is available, nearly 5,000 square feet of space. The campus offers free parking and easy access to I-94.

W. J. Maher Campus 3000 Blake Road • Jackson, MI 49201 517.768.7097

18

We Are Jackson College

This was the first year that all Michigan high school juniors took the SAT college admissions test as a state-mandated exam.

JC/LISD Academy students ranked 30th out of the top 50 schools across the state; 93 percent tested college-ready in English, and 43 percent tested college-ready in math.

Eleven students took the test. A perfect score on the SAT is 1600 – 800 in English and 800 in math. A combined score of 1000 is about the 50th percentile, with half of the test-takers scoring higher and half lower.

Statewide, 60 percent of test-takers scored as “college-ready” in English, and only 37 percent were “college-ready” in math.

JC/LISD Academy is a public middle college located on the campuses of the LISD TECH Center and Jackson College. The Academy is designed to immerse high school-aged students in the college environment with the opportunity to complete a high school diploma and an associate degree in five years.

JC/LISD Academy exists in partnership with all 11 Lenawee County public school districts. It is funded through a percentage of each district’s Foundation Allowance. This alleviates cost to students or their families for attending.

To learn more, visit www.jccmi.edu/lenawee/theacademy/.

Jackson College @ LISD TECH 1376 N. Main St. • Adrian, MI 49221 517.265.5515

The College and the HCISD received $28,500 in grant funding from the Michigan Transition Services Association (MTSA) and Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) to strengthen relationships that may increase employment outcomes for eligible youth.

Pre-employment skills training to students with disabilities has previously been lacking in Hillsdale County. Statistics show that special education students are less likely than their peers to complete any career and technical education (career center) program.

In addition, these students were not receiving information about postsecondary opportunities available in college. Providing a firsthand opportunity to participate in a college setting will better equip students to make postsecondary decisions. This collaborative initiative will offer career preparation to 20 10th grade students in special education programs. Students will receive a half day of vocation skills information. In addition, students will learn about the transition to college and skills for success. This collaborative includes Key Opportunities, MRS, HCISD and the HCISD transition coordinator, Michigan Works Southeast and the Clyde LeTarte Center.

•

A free financial aid filing workshop is set for Dec. 1 from 6-8 p.m. Receive help filing the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for 2016-2017 and/or 2017-2018. Please bring: 2015 federal tax returns, driver’s license, Social Security number, records of untaxed income, recent bank statements & investment information and FSA ID visit www.fafsa.gov.

Clyde LeTarte Center 3120 W. Carleton Road • Hillsdale, MI 49242 517.437.3343

Dan Bickel takes the baton for music program Jackson College welcomes a new music instructor Dan Bickel this fall, a familiar face to the Jackson County area.

Bickel teaches instrumental music instruction and conducts the Jackson Community Concert Band. He has previously taught at local public school

Bickel started college as a music education and practiced hard so he could be a performer. He completed his bachelor’s in music education from Michigan State University in 1998, and finished his Master of Arts in Conducting from Southern Oregon University in 2005. His instruments include trombone, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, tuba, drums, and he sings. He performed as a bass player and singer at Cedar Point and on Princess Cruises.

Since taking the helm at Jackson College, Bickel has continued the African Drum Ensemble and restarted the Jazz Band. The Jazz Band performed Nov. 2 at the American Legion Hall in Onsted, and the African Drum Ensemble will perform at Countryside Grand Nov. 18. Both groups are available for performances and are eager to play.

districts, including Western, Michigan Center, Trinity Lutheran and Grass Lake. He also performed with the Jackson Community Concert Band under the previous conductor, Ron Douglass. Douglass retired earlier this year after more than 25 years with the band.

“This is an opportunity for me to explore new horizons, an opportunity to work with more involved and challenging music,” Bickel said. “I would like the community to know that Jackson College will continue to bring music to the community, and involving the community as much as possible.”

Bickel hopes to add another section for the Jazz Band, focusing more on alternative or rock style. The College offers a range of music classes, from music theory and music appreciation to voice classes and lessons. Community members may register as “lifetime learning” students in several of the musical ensembles and the Community Concert Band.

COMMUNITY CONCERT BAND performs

INTERNATIONAL FLARE Featuring music from around the world

NOV. 20 • 3 p.m. • FREE Harold Sheffer Music Hall

Comments sought for accreditation Jackson College seeks comments from the public about the College in preparation for its periodic evaluation by its regional accrediting agency, the Higher Learning Commission. The College will host a visit Feb. 6–8, 2017. Jackson College has been accredited by HLC in the AQIP (Academic Quality Improvement Program) Pathway since 2003. The team will review the institution’s ongoing ability to meet HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation.

The public is invited to submit comments regarding Jackson College to the following address: Public Comment on Jackson College | Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500 | Chicago, IL 60604-1411.

The public may also submit comments on HLC’s website at www.hlcommission.org/comment.

Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Comments must be in writing.

Your success guaranteed at Jackson College!

These days, when you read the word ‘guarantee,’ you generally need to read the fine print, only to learn that it doesn’t mean much. I’ve been sharing with you over the years about Jackson College’s Total Commitment to Student Success (TCS2). Well, we mean it and we guarantee it! What does this mean to you?

Put simply, Jackson College guarantees that any students taking and successfully completing any credit course will have obtained the skills specified on the course syllabus. Furthermore, for students transferring to a university, Jackson College also guarantees that any transfer course taken from the Michigan Transfer Agreement listing will be accepted by the named university without loss of credit.

However, if by chance your employer, or your transfer university, determines that you do not have the requisite skills that were noted on the syllbus for the course you took, we welcome you to return and retake that course at no cost to you whatsoever. Though we believe this to be a very rare occurrence, if it does, please contact us and we will assign you a personal student success navigator to get you the skills you need.

Jackson College continues to be resolutely focused on TCS2, and we mean it. We believe strongly that the success of our students is always our top priority and it guides our daily work. We are making student success inescapable at Jackson College, and this guarantee is one more way we demonstrate the commitment.

At Jackson College, we are serious about your success, and we put our guarantee on it…no fine print.

Daniel J. Phelan, President

Questions about Jackson College programs and services described in this publication should be directed to Student Services at 517.796.8425.

Comments or questions about the publication can be directed to the Marketing Department at 517.796.8416.

Publisher: Cynthia S. Allen • Editor: Dotty Karkheck Writer: Marilynn Fryer • Graphic Design: Abbie Stein Photography: Jackson College Marketing

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

2111 Emmons Road Jackson, MI 49201-8399

DEARBORN, MI PERMIT NO. 11

*****ECRWSS***** Local Postal Customer

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

See what’s ahead at Jackson College REGISTRATION Registration opens on Nov. 9 for the winter semester at Jackson College! Winter semester classes begin Jan. 16, 2017. A complete course schedule and instructions for registration are available at www.jccmi.edu.

NOVEMBER 17-18

18

19

20

African-American Male Summit III, 6 p.m. Nov. 17, 8:30 a.m. - noon Nov. 18, Bert Walker Community Rooms (144 & 145) Taste of College Admissions Open House, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Potter Center Art Garfunkel In Close Up, 7 p.m.

Potter Center Jackson Community Concert Band FREE Fall Concert, 3 p.m. Potter Center

DECEMBER 1

9

16

Hillsdale Financial Aid Workshop, 6 p.m.

Clyde LeTarte Center Sandi Patty: Christmas Blessings, 7 p.m.

Potter Center Student Dance Concert, 7 p.m.

Potter Center

JANUARY 14

16 21

28

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Annual Celebration, 5:30 p.m.

Potter Center Winter semester begins Russian National Ballet Theatre: The Sleeping Beauty, 8 p.m. Potter Center Wynonna and The Big Noise, 7 p.m.

Potter Center

FEBRUARY 24

25

Late Nite Catechism 2: Sister Strikes Again 7:30 p.m., Potter Center Al Jarreau, 7 p.m., Potter Center

Questions about Jackson College programs and services described in this publication should be directed to Student Services at 517.796.8425.

Comments or questions about the publication can be directed to the Marketing Department at 517.796.8416.

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

2111 Emmons Road Jackson, MI 49201-8399

JACKSON, MI PERMIT NO. 99

Publisher: Cynthia S. Allen • Editor: Dotty Karkheck Writer: Marilynn Fryer • Graphic Design: Abbie Stein Photography: Jackson College Marketing Board of Trustees Samuel R. Barnes, Chairman • John M. Crist, Vice Chairman Sheila A. Patterson, Secretary • Donna L. Lake, Treasurer Matthew R. Heins, Trustee • Philip E. Hoffman, Trustee Dr. Edward A. Mathein, Trustee • Dr. Daniel J. Phelan, President

See what’s ahead at Jackson College REGISTRATION Registration opens on Nov. 9 for the winter semester at Jackson College! Winter semester classes begin Jan. 16, 2017. A complete course schedule and instructions for registration are available at www.jccmi.edu.

NOVEMBER 17-18

18

19

20

African-American Male Summit III, 6 p.m. Nov. 17, 8:30 a.m. - noon Nov. 18, Bert Walker Community Rooms (144 & 145) Taste of College Admissions Open House, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Potter Center Art Garfunkel In Close Up, 7 p.m.

Potter Center Jackson Community Concert Band FREE Fall Concert, 3 p.m. Potter Center

DECEMBER 1

9

16

Hillsdale Financial Aid Workshop, 6 p.m.

Clyde LeTarte Center Sandi Patty: Christmas Blessings, 7 p.m.

Potter Center Student Dance Concert, 7 p.m.

Potter Center

JANUARY 14

16 21

28

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Annual Celebration, 5:30 p.m.

Potter Center Winter semester begins Russian National Ballet Theatre: The Sleeping Beauty, 8 p.m. Potter Center Wynonna and The Big Noise, 7 p.m.

Potter Center

FEBRUARY 24

25

Late Nite Catechism 2: Sister Strikes Again 7:30 p.m., Potter Center Al Jarreau, 7 p.m., Potter Center