The Coyote Insider
NOVEMBER 2024
The Coyote Insider
NASA MOON TREE CELEBRATION
Dozens of visitors helped celebrate the arrival of the Moon Tree at Lone Star College-Kingwood. The seedling, a Loblolly Pine, orbited the moon during the Artemis I Mission. It traveled onboard the Orion spacecraft. The mission was part of a national STEM engagement and conservation initiative between NASA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Services LSC-Kingwood received the tree after applying for a grant On November 19th, a ceremony was held to celebrate the historic gift. Guest speakers included Lilian Hulett, Women’s Center Coordinator, Campus President Dr. Melissa Gonzalez, Aaron Clevenson, Director of Insperity Observatory, and student Maria Hernandez. Musical performances featured music student Thomas Williams, accompanied on the piano by Dr Robert Hunt, Music Professor, and Juliana Jordan on the harp.
Following the ceremony, the tree was planted outside the Learning Garden on the LSC-Kingwood campus. To see pictures, click here. To view the ceremony, click here.
Message from Dr Gonzalez President LSC-Kingwood
Hello, Coyotes!
November was busy with activities and celebrations.
We honored our Veterans, we shared our legacy stories with the community, we embraced time to relax and connect with fellow Coyotes and colleagues.
We also celebrated the arrival of our NASA Moon Tree, and as we planted it, reflected on our place in this world and how we can continue to encourage our students to keep reaching for the stars!
-- Go Coyotes!
NASA MOON TREE CELEBRATION
LEAVE A LEGACY COMMUNITY EVENT
The community came out in full force for the Mi Familia, Mi Futuro “Leave a Legacy” event. Nearly 200 people attended the November 9th summit. Visitors were able to experience a variety of sessions, from LSC departments to local organizations, focused on sharing invaluable resources and knowledge. Speakers included Lone Star College Chancellor Mario Castillo, LSC-Kingwood President Dr. Melissa Gonzalez, and Imee Villarreal, Manager of Mi Familia, Mi Futuro, among others Community members enjoyed food and incredible performances from local talent. Even local musician Sundance Head, who was the winner of “The Voice, Season 11,” performed a concert for the crowd. More pictures here.
HONORING OUR VETERANS AT LSC-KINGWOOD
The Student Veterans Association hosted an informative lunch and learn in honor of Veterans Day The event on November 14th was designed to arm veterans with information on filing claims and benefits offered. It also featured keynote speaker Teddera Ibrahim, who spoke about his life in the military and shared other inspiring stories. Thanks to the Office of Student Life for providing food for the event. More pictures here.
ATASCOCITA VETERANS BREAKFAST
At LSC-Atascocita Center, students and staff attended a celebration to honor Veterans. Breakfast was served and the guest speaker was an Atascocita professor, Gwendolyn Vastine. Professor Vastine was a Veteran who served in the Army. She shared her military experiences and how she transitioned from the military to becoming an educator
PROCESS TECH VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION
Process Tech Center had a great turnout for their Veterans Day celebration on November 11th. Around 30 students attended. There was a special tribute ceremony, a nice spread of food, family-friendly activites, and time for veterans and Process Tech staff to converse and connect What a way to honor our Veterans and show LSC cares Thanks to all who stopped by! And thank you for your service!
EAST ALDINE VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
East Aldine Center partnered with its Law Enforcement Academy for their Veterans Day event on November 11th. The officers presented the flags, and Avalos P-Tech High school students sang the National Anthem. Veterans also received gift bags in an effort to thank them for their service Lunch was also provided
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a holiday where some cultures honor and pay respects to loved ones who are no longer with us LSC-Kingwood set up a beautiful display in the SCC Atrium for students, faculty, and staff to leave offerings for their loved ones. Thanks to Student Life for providing this opportunity
EAST ALDINE DAY OF THE DEAD CELEBRATION
Staff and students at LSC-East Aldine Center had a great time creating skull cookies to celebrate the Day of the Dead. They looked almost too good to eat!
FRIENDSGIVING
Thanks to Student Life for providing a tasty Thanksgiving meal for students at LSC-Kingwood. Nearly 70 people attended the Friendsgiving event, which took place on November 21st. It was a great chance for Coyotes to come together to relax and recharge before heading into the holidays - and finals!
ATASCOCITA THANKSGIVING FESTIVITIES
No matter how you slice it, we ’ re thankful for our students at Atascocita Center! On November 21st, staff members provided pie and ice cream for students as a festive fall treat. Students also took time to get creative during the “Gratitude Rocks” event at the Center.
campus NEWS
TRANSFER FAIR
More than 70 students and 40 university recruiters and transfer advisors joined the Career and Transfer Center for the Fall 2024 Transfer Fair in the SCC atrium on November 5th. At the fair, students learned about the transfer process for some of the top universities in the state, including the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M, and Texas State University. More pictures here.
CAREER FAIR
The Career and Transfer Center also hosted a Career Fair on November 14th. More than 100 students had the chance to meet with representatives from 27 businesses Students were able to share copies of their resumes with business professionals for a chance to secure future career opportunities and learn more about local businesses. More pictures here
campus NEWS
TRAIN LIKE A FIREFIGHTER
LSC-Kingwood Fire Academy students showed off their life-saving skills during a demonstration on the campus on Wednesday, November 6th. During the “Train Like a Firefighter” event, the students practiced hose line evolutions, line carries, fast response drills, and rescue techniques. Students and staff also had the chance to test out some of the equipment. Chief David Teverbaugh, Program Director of Fire Science Technology, said the demonstration was a good opportunity to promote the program and have students practice their skills in a live environment. The event was entirely planned and executed by the class. Captain Nathan Russkeller explained that Texas has stricter regulations when it comes to training, requiring cadets to complete two tiers and also EMT training.
The fire science program usually runs about 32 weeks.
You can see more pictures from “Train Like a Firefighter” here.
campus NEWS
PROCESS TECH BP EXPERIENCE
What an incredible opportunity and experience for some LSC-Process Technology Center Students. BP selected the students to take part in their BP/BPx experience, along with students from San Juan College (Farmington, New Mexico) and Southern University (Shreveport, Louisiana) The experience took place between October 28th and November 1st. LSC was represented by 6 students and Process and Instrumentation Technology Program Director Ronnie Lewellyn, CPEA.
The students traveled to BP’s Westlake Campus in Houston, where they participated in trainings, then to Lufkin, where they trained on Upstream Operations and toured the upstream facilities Upon returning to the Westlake Campus, the students received an introduction to BP off-shore assets, routines, training requirements, and BP hiring processes.
On their final day, they were able to practice mock interviews and learn more about BP Safety. This trip was part of a partnership between BP and LSC-Process Technology Center which offered scholarships to students, and a year-long internship program with the oil company.
PROCESS TECH INDUSTRY NIGHT
The LSC-Process Technology Center hosted an Industry Night on November 20th. Forty students attended the event, which gave them an opportunity to engage with professionals from various industries, learning about the career paths and opportunities available to them upon graduation. To see more pictures from the event click here
campus NEWS
EAST ALDINE CENTER JOB FAIR
More than 460 people attended a job fair at LSC-East Aldine Center on November 4th. The job fair was open to community members and students and there were various representatives from companies such as Southwest Shipyard, Effex Management Solutions, Accident Care, and the City of Houston
NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING HERO EXPERIENCE
What a great opportunity for students to get an up close look at the East Aldine Center’s Inspection Technology (Non-Destructive Testing) Program. Welding Inspection Adjunct Professor Eddie Pompa organized the event, which is part of his NDT Hero program. It took place at the Pipeline Research Council International (PRCI) in Houston Eight LSC students and 10 Avalos P-Tech students were selected to participate More than 20 sponsors provided inspection tools for the students to work with and operate - these are tools they would need to use as entry level pipeline inspectors. You can follow Pompa for more NDT events on social media or learn more about the program at www.ndthero.com.
EAST ALDINE CENTER AWARDED $280,000 GRANT
The Lone Star College-East Aldine Center is proud to announce the renewal of the TRUE 2024-25 grant, providing $280,000 in funding, $30,000 more than was awarded last year. This renewed support will enhance the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, crucial for training future healthcare professionals.
With this funding, the LSC-East Aldine Center will continue to expand its CNA program, developing innovative training resources and curriculum improvements that equip students with essential skills for success in the healthcare field The additional funding will allow for refined budgeting and program outcomes to maximize the grant's impact.
Dean Reyna Tippetts expressed her excitement about the renewal, stating, “We are grateful for the continued support of this grant, which validates the hard work of our dedicated faculty and staff. This funding allows us to continue to expand our healthcare programs to our students and community while enhancing the CNA program and better preparing our students for rewarding careers in healthcare ”
MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
November is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month LSC-Kingwood counselors hosted an event to chat with students about tools to manage stress and shared resources with them as well To see more pictures from the event, click here.
COYOTES GET CREATIVE DURING OPEN MIC EVENT
The Poetry & Songwriting Club hosted an Open Mic event November 12th. Students shared original pieces and then showed support to their fellow Coyotes. To see more pictures from the event, click here.
GRATITUDE & POSITIVE THINKING EVENT
Communities In Schools is hoping to help students strengthen relationships and improve self worth and resilience. The organization invited students to design a Gratitude Tree or write a letter during their “Gratitude & Positive Thinking Event.” Snacks and drinks were also provided.
GRAPHIC DESIGN-VISUAL COMMUNICATION STUDENT TAKES TOP PLACE IN THE AAF COMPETITON
Eight Graphic Design-Visual Communication students from Lone Star College-Kingwood joined students and professors from four states to compete at the 43rd annual American Advertising Federation (AAF) of Houston’s Student Conference and Competition in November For the third year in a row, LSC’s two-year program students were part of the first-place team Steven Reid, a graphic design student, received first-place team recognition from AAF-Houston The team created a million-dollar campaign based on real-world job criteria
The AAF’s Tenth District is comprised of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas The competition took place Friday, November 1st, and Saturday, November 2nd, at the Houston Chronicle building Representatives from one of the clients, Rodney Jones Law Group P C , said LSC’s work was outstanding “As a professor of the Graphic Design program and advisor of the Graphic Design Club, I am very proud of our students’ contributions and how they represented LSC-Kingwood at this event,” shared Zoila Donneys, Visual Communications Professor. “I profoundly appreciate the support and attendance at the event of faculty Pam Clarke and April Irving, who represented LSC-Kingwood with great professionalism with universities, the invited companies, and the AAF board.” The AAF–Houston provided attendees with a two-day, nationally recognized advertising competition and professional sessions to help students launch a career in the industry. The students created a comprehensive marketing, advertising, and public relations campaign for the sponsoring Rodney Jones Law Group P.C. Other LSC-Kingwood students who participated were Alma Zavala, Ke'Asya Steward, Howard Ogun, Lucas Pettingill, Myles Garrett, Mauricio Gamez, and Jonathan Naquin.
All students who participated from LSC-Kingwood demonstrated that they are not only ready for the higher demands of careers in graphic design, but that the LSC-Kingwood programs are contemporary programs that are competitive with fouryear and master’s degree colleges and universities in Texas and neighboring states
campus NEWS
DESIGN-A-THON
Last month, Design-A-Thon 2024 celebrated 20 years of LSC-Kingwood serving the community with projects that have positively changed their organizations. On November14th, students presented their designs for the nonprofit companies they partnered with. They included Family to Family Network, Houston Beekeepers Association, Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center, Creativity Shell Organization, and Mi Familia, Mi Futuro College Program. Design-A-Thon students are volunteers who have worked on designs throughout the semester, completing projects with a variety of designs, including logos, brochures, animations, flyers, videos, radio ads, and social media ads Twenty-seven students reported more than 2,000 hours of volunteer work for the organizations between September and November. We want to thank the faculty and staff members who made this event possible: Zoila Donneys, Pam Clarke, Jared Anderson, Jason Watson, Maggie Callahan, Taylor Anderson, Shawn Sedooff, and Roger Chambers. To see more pictures from the presentatations, click here. To see a video celebrating 20 years of the program, click here.
STAFF & fACULTY NEWS
CONGRATS TO THE LSC-FOUNDATION MINI-GRANT AWARDEES!
Awardee: Kaitlyn Barrett and Amanda Mollet
Project: Sensory-Inclusive Therapeutic Environment (SITE)
This hybrid sensory space within the Testing Center addresses the needs of both neurodivergent and neurotypical students. By providing a mix of calming and active sensory inputs, including lower lighting, calming music/headphones, a sensory wall, stressrelief tools, and rocking chairs, this initiative aims to reduce anxiety and overstimulation, creating a balanced and supportive environment for all students.
Awardee: Armando Galvan Cruces Project: The Coyote Insider
"The Coyote Insider" is a digital newsletter that connects and informs the Lone Star College-Kingwood community This grant will enable the production of physical copies, enhancing accessibility and engagement. While the digital edition already achieves over 2,300 impressions, the addition of printed copies will extend our reach to those who engage less with digital content, fostering greater community outreach.
Awardee: Dr. Brian R. Shmaefsky
Project: LSC-Kingwood Community Arboretum & Historical Park
This initiative emphasizes hands-on learning by involving students in real-world environmental science projects. The funding will facilitate the design and development of an arboretum, offering place-based environmental education, conservation programs, and community engagement opportunities. This project not only enhances educational experiences but also provides valuable contributions to the local community
STAFF & fACULTY NEWS
LSC-KINGWOOD FACULTY & STAFF SELECTED FOR 2025 LEADERSHIP ACADEMY & LEAP PROGRAM
Congrats to the individuals who have been selected for leadership programs at Lone Star College-Kingwood. Being chosen for these programs is a reflection of the leadership qualities shown by these employees and speaks to their dedication and hard work at the college
The Leadership Academy is a program whose mission is to enrich the culture of LSC by developing people, strategy, and processes to empower its members
The faculty member chosen for the 2025 Leadership Academy is:
Ashley Brinkman, Associate Professor of English
LEAP is a year-long program that focuses on essential aspects of leadership while providing networking opportunities. Those selected participate in coaching, assessments, personal development plans, and a group project
The staff selected for the 2025 LSC-LEAP program are:
Gloria Rhodes, Specialist III, Outreach and Recruitment
Lilian Hulett, Coordinator I, Women’s Center
Shari Robinson, Division Operations Specialist Div. 5
STAFF & fACULTY NEWS
CLEVELAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LUNCHEON
Thank you to the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce for inviting us to your luncheon. It was an honor to be given the opportunity to meet with so many friendly faces in our community Featured in photos are: LSC-Kingwood Outreach & Recruitment Representative Gloria Rhodes with Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of the Chamber Victoria Good, and Texas Ranger & LSC Alumni Joshua Benson.
LSC-KINGWOOD PHOTOGRAPHER RETIRES AFTER 24 YEARS
Congratulations to LSC-Kingwood’s longtime photographer, Diana Sorensen, on her retirement. Diana spent 24 years at the college as the Part-Time photographer, documenting everything from the little moments to the most memorable She was known for her talent and dedication She will be missed We wish her all the best as she relaxes during retirement!
STAFF & fACULTY NEWS
LONESTAR EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
PIZZA WITH THE PRESIDENT
LSC-Kingwood President Dr. Melissa Gonzalez had a great time meeting students during Pizza with the President on November 19th. Several students walked away with prizes! Thank you to everyone who stopped by to share a meal and conversation with Dr. Gonzalez.
PSSA FRIENDSGIVING
A shout out to the PSSA (Professional Support Staff Association) for providing a wonderful “Friendsgiving” Feast. More than 100 staff members attended. PSSA always knows how to make our employees feel special! More pictures here
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
LONESTAR EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
COMCAST LAPTOP DONATIONS
Comcast is working to bridge the digital divide, by awarding 100 computers to students at Lone Star CollegeKingwood
On October 17th, Comcast donated 100 Dell Latitude 3120 Configuration laptops to be distributed to LSCKingwood students who are pursuing a technology-related certificate or degree. Michael Olivarez is one of the students who received a laptop.
“Receiving the Comcast laptop has been incredibly helpful, especially as a working student in the cybersecurity program. This support has lightened the load for me, allowing me to stay on top of my studies without the financial strain of purchasing a new device ”
Funding for the laptops was provided by Comcast NBC Universal Foundation
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
LONESTAR EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
ESOL DINNER
The ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Ethnic Dinner on November 7th offered a fusion of flavors for guests. The dinner is a pot-luck event where ESOL students bring traditional food from their countries to share. Attendees were able to enjoy dishes from Latin America, Europe, and Asia. More pictures here.
WORLD TABLE PARADE
Some LSC-Kingwood students set up displays to showcase their unique cultures during International Education Week. Thirteen clubs from Student Life participated and countries represented included Ghana, Greece, South Korea, El Salvador, France, Colombia, Indonesia, and Canada. Visitors were even able to sample traditional foods from the various countries.
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
WORLD JEOPARDY
Students had a chance to test their trivia skills and learn some fun facts about different cultures and traditions during World Jeopardy on November 19th. The winning team even walked away with prizes. The event was part of International Education Week. Thanks to Student Life for sponsoring the event. You can find more pictures here.
DIWALI CELEBRATION
Faculty, staff, and students received an informative lecture about the Diwali holiday, courtesy of our very own LSCKingwood English professor, Dr. Sampada Chavan Dalvi Professor Dalvi spoke about the traditions and customs practiced during the holiday as well as the unique food. Of course, students were thrilled to enjoy some samples afterward! More pictures here.
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS MUSICAL RAISES $3,800 FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
Another successful show in the books for the LSC-Kingwood Theatre Department
More than 370 patrons attended the musical “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” during its two-week run, and the show raised $3,800 for scholarships.
Photos courtesy of Lynn Lane.
CULTURE
EVOK FALL CONCERT
The Evōk Fall Concert is always a unique expererience and this time was no different. The free concert took place at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Kingwood on November 22nd The choir presented a diverse selection of music that captivated the crowd and demonstrated once again the outstanding talent we have here at LSC-Kingwood.
KINGWOOD JAZZ BAND SHOWS OFF SKILLS ON CAMPUS
The campus community received a lovely lunchtime serenade from the Kingwood Jazz Band on November 20th. The group was led by Associate Music Professor Michael Johnson.
CURIOUS MINDS: SOUNDTRACK OF OUR LIVES
Two of Lone Star College-Kingwood’s most experienced and accomplished music professors shared their knowledge and their music during the “Soundtrack of Our Lives” presentation on November 13th. Dr. Todd Miller and Dr. Robert Hunt explored artists’ perceptions and understanding of how music can change or grow over time with age and life experience The two discussed the music then performed from a variety of eras and genres that included Beethoven, Brahms, Ravel, Schumann, and Vaughan Williams, among others LSC-Kingwood is fortunate to have such amazing talent right here on our campus shaping young students’ minds. More pictures from the event here.
BEATLES COVER BAND CELEBRATES LSC-KINGWOOD’S 40TH
ANNIVERSARY
Dozens of people came together to “twist and shout” during the concert performed by the award-winning Beatles tribute band, Beetle. On November 13th, the band performed a free concert on the campus to celebrate the 40th anniversary of LSC-Kingwood. “We study and appreciate the historical, social, and cultural importance of the Beatles,” said David Persails, retired educator and current student at LSC-Kingwood. “But listening to their music brings it to life. A live performance of their music in the hands of very capable musicians like Beetle is a perfect expression, salute, and celebration of that A Beetle concert is a shared experience all can enjoy ” You can see more pictures from the concert here
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
LONESTAR EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
BAYLOR UNIVERSITY VISIT
LSC-Kingwood students from the SSS TRIO program got a glimpse inside life at Baylor University. The free trip on November 15th was sponsored by TRIO, Mi Familia, Mi Futuro, and the CAT Center More pictures here
PHI THETA KAPPA INDUCTION
Congrats to the new members of Phi Theta Kappa. The Fall Induction Ceremony was held November 21st in the SCC. Family and friends showed up in support. PTK is an Honors Society designed to cultivate leaders through professional development and networking opportunities, career preparation, and a supportive community. Dr. Matthew Newton and Dean Jared Miller are the CoAdvisors of the Kingwood Chapter of PTK. We know this next group of inductees will do great things! More pictures here.
MEN’S BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS RESULTS
We’re proud of our Men’s Basketball team for their hard fought battle to the playoffs! They lost to University of Houston-Downtown, but proved they could hold their own, even taking on club teams from 4 year colleges. Congrats on a great season, Coyotes!
