The Coyote Insider Edition #6
JANUARY 2023 2024 SEPTEMBER
UPCOMING EVENTS
FEBRUARY
2024 SPRING SEMESTER: Welcome back, Coyotes!
BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS AMERICA’S WESTERN LANDSCAPE STRATA VARIOUS STUDENT BODY PLAY
SURPRISE SCHOLARSHIP: Congrats, Cory Thomas!
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The Coyote Insider
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LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
WELCOME TO THE 2024 SPRING SEMESTER, COYOTES! Despite a cold and icy start to the semester, Coyotes are ready to hit the ground running towards their educational goals. Let’s make it a great spring, Coyotes!
Message from Dr. Gonzalez President Kingwood College
Hello, Coyotes!
WELCOME BACK, FACULTY & STAFF! Faculty and staff received a warm welcome during the 2024 Spring Inservice breakfast. Campus President Dr. Melissa Gonzalez encouraged everyone to keep up the good work inspiring and motivating students.
The 2024 spring semester had a memorable beginning but that hasn’t slowed our momentum as we wrap up our first month back on campus. We know that we have the best faculty and staff to support our students, and a plethora of resources to guide them as they embark on their educational journeys. We hope you enjoy the newsletter, and -- Go Coyotes!
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campus NEWS
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LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
INSERVICE EXCELLENCE AWARDS FACULTY EXCELLENCE AWARD: Twyla Coy, Professor SPCH Tanya Easley, Associate Professor MATH Dr. Robert Hunt, Professor MUSI Amber Williams-Lara, Professor SPAN
STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARD: Michelle Bolen, PT Specialist III, Instr Sup Brett Wright, Division Ops Spec Karel Cook, Coordinator I Donna Margiolos, Spec IV Janet Franklin Ables, Spec II Dental Hygiene Prog
ADJUNCTS EXCELLENCE AWARD: Brigham Barron, Adjunct DEV MATH Jennifer Lee, Adjunct CHEM Richanne Kelley, Adjunct RNSG Riley Sullivan, Adjunct HIS
LSC WRITING AWARD
LSC FOCUS AWARD Nicole Foley-Nelson, Advisor II
Dr. Brian Shmaefsky, Biology Professor
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campus NEWS
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LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
HONORING MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.’S LEGACY: A MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT, DR. MELISSA GONZALEZ This month, as organizations and individuals across the United States and around the world paid tribute to the remarkable Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I was honored to be among those who celebrated his life and enduring legacy on January 15th, which also marked his birthday. This day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, is a profound and significant holiday that not only commemorates his birth but also celebrates the indelible mark he left on the pages of American history. The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was more than just a man. He was a father, a husband, a brother and a friend to many. He dedicated his entire life to the noble cause of advocating against injustices, inequality, and poverty. His unwavering commitment to civil rights touched the hearts and minds of countless people, mine included, and he ignited a spark of hope in what seemed to be darkest of times. Dr. King's legacy is a beacon of light that continues to guide the world toward a future built on justice, equality, and unity. As we reflect on and celebrate his life, let us remember his words and deeds. Let them inspire us to be the change we wish to see in the world. In paying tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we not only honor the past but also reaffirm our commitment to a brighter future. May his enduring legacy continue to inspire us all.
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campus NEWS
J A N U A R Y 2 02 4
LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
CHANCELLOR MARIO K. CASTILLO VISITS LSC-KINGWOOD FOR “WHAT’S THE WORD ON THE STREET”
Lone Star College Chancellor Mario K. Castillo visited the LSC-Kingwood campus for his monthly “What’s the Word on the Street.” The Chancellor shared college updates with faculty and staff and addressed questions and concerns during the open forum. Thanks for stopping by, Chancellor Castillo! To view more pictures, click here.
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campus NEWS
J A N U A R Y 2 02 4
LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
SCHOLARSHIP SURPRISE! A Humble High School student was shocked when he learned he won a $1,000 LSC-Kingwood scholarship in a surprise ceremony. The high school band members and cheerleaders were on hand to serenade Cory Thomas as he learned he was the winner. LSC representatives presented Cory with a symbolic check, and even Cody the Coyote got the chance to congratulate him. Thomas said his mother is his inspiration. “My mom, she’s been pushing me a lot, she’s always telling me to apply for scholarships, so I’ve been applying.” Thomas’ mother, Tiffiiany Godley, shared that she is so proud and looks forward to him taking his education to the next level. The scholarship was made possible thanks to a partnership between Lone Star College-Kingwood and Humble ISD. Thomas plans to study architecture at LSC-Kingwood. To see more pictures from the surprise ceremony, click here. For a video of the surprise event, click here.
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campus NEWS
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LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
FLY THROUGH FINALS Coyotes snagged snacks and lunch ahead of fall 2023 finals to get those mental gears moving. Thanks to Student Life for providing this support to our students!
SUPER SATURDAYS Students showed up to get some help with registering during LSC-Kingwood’s two January Super Saturday events. They also had the chance to scope out all the programs and activities the campus has to offer. We’re looking forward to seeing these new Coyotes around campus! More pictures here.
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campus NEWS
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LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
COYOTE KICKSTART Students got a chance to jumpstart their semester at Coyote Kickstart. It was also an opportunity for them to learn more firsthand about the various student services and programs LSCKingwood and its Centers have to offer. Even Cody stopped by to get a kickstart to his semester. To see the pictures, click here.
CLUB RUSH Staff and students from the various clubs set up for Club Rush, to show Coyotes all the options they have to enrich their campus life. Check out more pictures here. For a look at all the clubs and organizations at LSC-Kingwood, visit https://www.lonestar.edu/clubs-kingwood.htm.
WELCOME BACK TO THE WOODS
Student Life hosted a fun and festive welcome back event for students on the Kingwood campus. Students snacked on Chick--Fil-A and had a chance to meet other Coyotes. More pictures can be found here.
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campus NEWS
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LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
NURSING PINNNGS
Congrats to the 39 Nursing ADN students who graduated last month. Their pinning was held on December 14th. There were also 39 grads over the summer, which means a total of 78 new nurses for 2023. Nursing Program Director Nickie Loftin praised the students, saying, “we’re very proud of these students who’ve worked very hard and know they will do amazing in their profession.” For more pictures of the event, click here.
RESPIRATORY CARE GRADUATION
The Respiratory Care program had 14 graduates in December. Best of luck in your future careers! To see more pictures, click here. 2 0 0 0 0 K I N GW O O D D R ., K I N GW O O D, T X 7 7 33 9
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campus NEWS
JANUARY 2024
LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC-KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
ESOL CELEBRATION OF SUCCESS LSC-Kingwood ESOL students were recognized for their hard work and accomplishments during the Celebrate Success Ceremony. ESOL professors handed out special awards and recognized graduates of the program. The ceremony also featured guest and students speakers and musical and dance performances by LSC students. To see more pictures, click here.
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campus NEWS
JA N UA R Y 2 02 4
LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC-KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
LSC-EAST ALDINE CENTER: NEW YEAR, NEW VISIONS Students at LSC-East Aldine Center are ready for a new year. They created personalized vision boards to showcase their new year goals.
LSC-PROCESS TECH INFO SESSION
LSC-ATASCOCITA CENTER WELCOME BACK BREAKFAST LSC-Atascocita Center welcomed Coyotes back on campus with coffee and snacks, fueling students for their first day back!
LSC-Process Tech Center will host an information session on February 12th, from 6pm-7pm. Students can learn about all the programs the center offers which combine technology and manufacturing and is a very highdemand field. Knowledgeable staff members, professors and financial aid representatives will be on hand to provide a tour and answer questions. For more information on the Process Technology Center, click here.
LSC-ATASCOCITA CENTER NATIONAL CROISSANT DAY LSC-Atascocita Center celebrated National Croissant Day by sharing some tasty treats with students. Looks like they enjoyed it!
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STAFF & fACULTY NEWS
JA N UA R Y 2 02 4
LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY GRADUATES Congratulations to Lone Star College staff members Deborah Hernández, Nia Ramirez, and Jailenys Alvarez for completing and graduating from the LSC Academy program. They dedicated a year to enriching their leadership skills, fostering meaningful connections, and expanding their professional network. The Academy challenged Deborah, Nia, and Jai to adapt to new leadership roles, inspire innovation, and foster a more inclusive and collaborative leadership approach. Congratulations on this accomplishment!
LAKE HOUSTON PARTNERSHIP: NEW BOARD MEMBER LSC-Kingwood will have a new representative for the Lake Houston Partnership. Dr. Roger Chambers, Dean of Instruction Division V, will be the new Board member for the organization. Dr. Chambers says he is honored to be on the board. “The Lake Houston area has a longstanding history of cultivating a vibrant community where residents, businesses, and employees can thrive in a safe and viable space. I am excited about the opportunity to serve the Partnership, and I plan to continue the legacy set by many forerunners. I want to thank the leadership of the Partnership and Dr. Gonzalez for this awesome opportunity. I hope to make you all proud.” 2 0 0 0 0 K I N GW O O D D R ., K I N GW O O D, T X 7 7 33 9
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STAFF & fACULTY NEWS
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LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
ICESS FERNANDEZ ROJAS: “THE OPPOSITE OF BREATHING IS CEMENT” Icess Fernandez Rojas shared her book of poetry with the faculty, staff, and students at LSC-Kingwood during a Curious Minds lecture. “The Opposite of Breathing is Cement” is Rojas’ first book of poetry. The work is described as “an ode to healing by exposing long-held wounds to the light in hopes that something fruitful is created.” The book is available for purchase online at the following retailers:
Amazon Barnes and Noble Bookshop.org
DAVID TEVERBAUGH INTERVIEW WITH TELEMUNDO Fire Science Program Director David Teverbaugh gave his winter weather tips during an interview with Telemundo on our LSC-Kingwood campus. He spoke about the importance of having a plan in case you lose power, if pipes burst, and other weather issues. For more information on our fire science program, visit https://www.lonestar.edu/fire-science-dept-kingwood.htm.
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STAFF & fACULTY NEWS
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LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC_KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
PSSA POTLUCK AT PROCESS TECH
COOKIES & COCOA WITH HR
LSC-Process Tech provided a potluck to celebrate the holiday season. Thanks to the PSSA and PT staff for putting together such a splendid spread!
The Human Resources Department at LSCKingwood held a festive Hot Cocoa & Cookies party. Staff members enjoyed sipping cocoa and decorating cookies as well as photo ops with fun props. Thanks to HR for providing such an engaging event!
COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS HOLIDAY PARTY Communities In Schools served up chili and gumbo to students and staff during a holiday hangout. There were also fun giveaways. CIS provides support to students to help them stay in school. 2 0 0 0 0 K I N GW O O D D R ., K I N GW O O D, T X 7 7 33 9
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COMMUNITY & CULTURE
JANUARY 2024
LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC-KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN IN COMMUNITY COLLEGES CHAPTER KICKOFF The Lone Star College Chapter of the American Association for Women in Community Colleges (AAWCC) held its kick-off event on last month at LSC-System Office in the Woodlands. The event featured keynote speaker Dr. Mia Taylor, Chair of the Business Center of Excellence at Houston Community College. More than 100 people joined online and in person. Founded in 1973, AAWCC is dedicated to providing education, career development, and advancement opportunities to women educators and students within the community college system. The launch of the Lone Star College chapter promises to be a significant milestone in furthering this mission.
ALL OPEN HOUSE: CELEBRATING 20 YEARS The ALL program (Academy for Lifelong Learning) at Lone Star College-Kingwood is celebrating 20 years of providing the community with free and low-cost classes and events. ALL provides classes and events for retired, semi-retired, and working seniors. It also allows members to cultivate friendships and explore new interests and ideas. ALL marked the milestone with a celebration during the program’s January Open House. Attendees were able to get the scoop on how to enroll in classes and instructors were on hand to provide more information as well. To see more pictures from the Open House, click here.
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COMMUNITY & CULTURE
JANUARY 2024
LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC-KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
MUSICAL STAR PERFORMANCE An amazing opportunity for LSC-Kingwood music students, alumni and faculty - they had the chance to sing back up for international star Sarah Brightman. Dr. Todd Miller, professor of music and chair of Visual and Performing Arts, put together a 16-voice choir of current and former students and faculty to sing on approximately 20 of Sarah Brightman’s songs as part of her “A Christmas Symphony” Tour at the Smart Financial Center in Sugarland. “When I can, I like to include some of our most talented and dependable singers, as it gives them a real insight into this part of the music business,” Dr. Miller said. “They get to participate and experience a worldclass artist up close while also having to deliver their notes with accurate musicianship.” Current students who sang were Julia Garza, John Skipper, Mackenzie Sturm, Calli Walling. Former students who sang, were Kathleen Barr, Taryn Beard, Taryn Hemsing, Tori Hunt, Mitchell Hutchins, and Isaac Recio. Faculty who sang were Juan Garza, Dr. Todd Miller, Lisa Morales, and Heath Vercher. The LSC-Kingwood Music Department is celebrating 30 years in 2024 and has a long history of musical excellence. To schedule an audition or for more information email Dr. Todd Miller at Todd.R.Miller@Lonestar.edu or Dr. Michael Johnson at Michael.Johnson@Lonestar.edu
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COMMUNITY & CULTURE
JANUARY 2024
LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC-KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
MARK BURNS: AMERICA’S WESTERN LANDSCAPE & STRATAVARIOUS The LSC-Kingwood art gallery is presenting works from renowned photographer Mark Burns, titled, “America's Western Landscape.” Burns’ photography has appeared in various publications including Time Magazine. His work has also been on display at the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Memorial, the Houston Museum of Natural History, the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts, and the Sam Houston Memorial Museum. The current exhibit on display here at LSC is the culmination of 5 years of collaboration with America’s National Park Foundation, where Burns photographed all 59 of America's national parks in black and white. Also on display is “StrataVarious,” a joint effort between LSC-Kingwood geology and fine art students, and the gallery. It was inspired by a trip to the Hill Country where students were in awe of nature’s beauty and wanted to showcase it. Mark Burns will speak about his exhibit on February 7th at 12:30pm in the gallery. On February 13th, there will be a gallery talk by Geology Professor Cherith Letargo and Art Professor Mari Omori. That will take place at 12:30pm. The show will be on display through February 20th. To see more pictures, click here.
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COMMUNITY & CULTURE
JA N UA R Y 2 02 4
LONESTAR.EDU/KINGWOOD | @LSC-KINGWOOD | 281-312-1600
HOLIDAY SPIRIT WEEK During Holiday Spirit Week, students and staff wowed with their winter wear. From Ugly Sweater Day to Dress like a Reindeer, Coyotes showed their holiday spirit in full force.
SOLE MISSION SHOE TREE DONATIONS The Career and Transfer Center collected 26 new pairs of shoes for their shoe tree. The drive was a partnership with SOLE Mission, a local non-profit group dedicated to giving new shoes to children living in poverty. It’s one of the largest shoe distribution organizations in the country. A special thanks to everyone who donated this season to those in need!
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