Community - Fall 2015

THE INTERTRIBAL POWWOW

An annual celebration of honor and culture page 3

CONTENTS

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Program Spotlight: Utility Line

Climbing to a new career

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The Intertribal Powwow

An annual celebration of honor and culture

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Outshining the Competition

MCC electrical student takes gold at SkillsUSA nationals

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A New Educational Highway

Accelerated courses offer fast track toward credits

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Program Delivers on Jobs

Students see success with Diesel Technology Degree

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Teacher Tuesday

Instructors play a big role in student success

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Coming Full Circle

MCC graduate now helping students at former high school

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Around the College Living out a Dream

Q & A with Napa Valley chef and MCC graduate, Tony Incontro

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Expansion Update

The latest on the Fort Omaha Campus expansion

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Take it Further Scholarship

Scholarship offers additional incentive for high school students

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Healthy Aspirations

Students achieve their goals through partnership and training

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MCC Abuzz with Innovation

New IT initiatives highlight College's future

20 Friends and Alumni Network Spotlight Get to know MCC Alumna Christine Harry

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Get Involved

Student organizations offer new opportunities

Fall 2015 “Community” is a quarterly publication of Metropolitan Community College. Contact the editor at 402-457-2414 or marketing@mccneb.edu.

Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity Statement—Metropolitan Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, age, disability or sexual orientation in admission or access to its programs and activities or in its treatment or hiring of employees.

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program spotlight utility line CLIMBING TO A NEW CAREER

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CC’s Utility Line program offers students training in a career that not only rewards with high earning potential, but also gives its professionals a satisfying career.

Utility line technicians have a median hourly pay of more than $31, according to data from the U.S. Department of Labor. The job offers flexible hours, an outside environment and an in-demand trade.

The program at the College has two degree options; a traditional option and a weekend option. Students enrolled in the traditional option begin their journey in the Fall quarter and continue their trek for one year, with many students ending with an internship in the Summer quarter. If the student has completed general education requirements, they can expect to complete the program within one year. The weekend option for students consists of Saturday courses, with each student taking up to two classes per quarter. Beginning in the Spring quarter, students in the weekend option can graduate in six quarters, depending on general education courses completed.

To find out more about this program, visit mccneb.edu/util.

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the intertribal An annual celebration of honor and culture

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he Fort Omaha 2015 Intertribal Powwow Princess takes her role very seriously, but her zest for life extends in many directions to the likes of choir singer, beader, shot put and discus competitor, title-holding arm wrestler and recordsetting weight lifter. Of all her accomplishments, it’s when Jamie Colvin speaks about her role as powwow princess that her eyes light up. “I am very thankful and feel so honored to be representing my family, community and tribe,” Colvin said. As the princess she has been busy promoting the Fort Omaha Intertribal Powwow and has attended five gourd dances, one round dance and 24 powwows to date.

Colvin hasn’t always been involved in powwows, however.

She and her immediate family are part of the Seminoles of Oklahoma. The Seminoles hold stomp dances rather than powwows. Two years ago Colvin expressed her interest in powwows, which led her to the Omaha Tribe, who

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have become her powwow family. The regalia she wears for the Omaha Tribe includes plumes and beadwork. Her Seminole roots are depicted in the ringed patterns found on her traditional patchwork skirts, each ring holding special meaning. On Colvin’s dresses, you will typically find alligator tracks, which represent her clan.

The princess role is something Colvin has been dreaming of for nearly ten years. As she became more active and confident at the powwows she decided go for the crown. To be considered, the candidate must first submit an application, then interview with the judges, who want to be sure she has a clear understanding of her cultural background, as well as hear why she wants to fill the role. She will then test her public speaking and dance skills. Additionally, she must be a good role model, drug and alcohol free, have good grades and be involved in the community.

powwow

Colvin plans to continue to strive for excellence this fall when she attends Hascall Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas, where she will major in environmental science.

She plans to become a park ranger. “I love animals and the outdoors. As a park ranger you get to see both every day and don’t have to live a scheduled life ruled by alarms and due dates.” Given that Colvin has accomplished so much thus far, little doubt remains that she will go on to achieve exactly what she sets her mind to. And when her time as princess comes to an end this September, Colvin will have the honor of passing the crown to the new reigning princess at the 24th annual Fort Omaha Intertribal Powwow on Sept. 12.

The powwow held annually at Metropolitan Community College’s Fort Omaha Campus will be celebrated on the same grounds where Ponca Chief Standing Bear once awaited trial.

It is an all-inclusive event that draws people from across the region to honor Native peoples along with their customs and history, including traditional dance, music, storytelling and foods. “From its inception, the objective has been to include as many segments of the community as possible, celebrating

Native American culture with the public, regardless of ethnicity or religion. It is a time to rejoice and dance for those who are no longer with us or are physically unable to dance,” said Richard Barea, long-time committee member.

The powwow continues to grow each year and is able to do so through grants, such as those received this year from the Douglas County Visitors Improvement Fund and the Nebraska Arts Council.

This year’s theme is Caretakers of the Earth and will feature emcee, Chris Grizlik, Winnebago; arena director, Greg Grey Cloud, Crow Creek Sioux; and many other staff from across the region, as well as HawkQuest – an organization that seeks to raise awareness about birds of prey by bringing you face to face with the raptors – will offer the opportunity to have pictures taken with the majestic birds. The powwow, which is free and open to the public, will be held on Saturday, Sept. 12, 1-7:30 p.m. at the Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha Campus, 30th and Fort streets.

See last year's highlights... community • mccneb.edu • 4

OUTSHINING THE COMPETITION MCC electrical student takes gold at SkillsUSA nationals

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omeday he plans to take over the family business.

Until then, he’s going to enjoy his gold medal. Gretna, Nebraska, native Dan Riha was the gold medal winner in the Electrical Construction Wiring competition at the 51st annual SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. Riha qualified for the national competition after placing first at the SkillsUSA Nebraska Championships in April 2015. Beating out competition from all corners of the nation, Riha knew it was the punctuation mark on his calling to be an electrician.

“It was awesome. I was kind of shocked at first. Winning gold in front of my dad and teachers that helped me get there was a special feeling,” said Riha, who plans on graduating from MCC in 2016.

With goals of being an electrician and eventually becoming an electrical contractor, Riha chose MCC for many reasons.

He first needed the nudge from a family friend who suggested the program after going through it himself. Upon meeting the faculty, he felt the friendly atmosphere was going to play a crucial part in learning the skills necessary to succeed after graduation. Lastly, a scholarship that helped to cover tuition and fees gave Riha the motivation to earn a degree in Electrical Technology.

outside work. And with self-employed electricians making up nearly 10 percent of electrical professionals*, workers in the

“My dad was an electrician for many years and I used to

industry can enjoy flexible schedules and the possibility for

help him out sometimes when I was younger. He now owns

entrepreneurship, much like Riha’s father.

his own business and I plan on continuing to run the family business someday,” he said.

“I like it because there’s always something new or different happening,” he said. “You don’t have to work all day at the

One of the primary draws of being an electrician is the fast-

same place usually and it never gets repetitive.”

paced, on-the-go environment. With electrician jobs expected to grow by 20 percent by 2022* and median annual pay at

For more information about MCC’s Electrical Technology

$50,000, the economic outlook for Riha is good. Electricians

course offerings, visit mccneb.edu/eltr.

often have a varied work space, sometimes working alone or in teams. Those in the field can also enjoy both inside and

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*Bureau of Labor Statistics

a NEW

EDUCATIONAL HIGHWAY Accelerated courses offer fast track toward credits

To register call 402-457-2400 With MCC’s new accelerated track courses, students can earn the credits they need in just five weeks, bulking up their résumé even quicker.

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tudents may have an educational goal in mind, but it can sometimes take years to get there.

Especially if that student works full-time and has other responsibilities. The student may have to take one class per quarter, completing just a few classes over a year’s span, making the process slow and arduous.

The accelerated concept meets the need of a particular kind of student — those who are employed or working in the military or for students who have a specific degree objective they need to achieve quickly. Examples of this could be to earn credits to transfer to a four-year institution or to earn an associate degree faster than normal.

With MCC’s new accelerated track courses, students can earn the credits they need in just five weeks, bulking up their résumé even quicker. The idea is to provide courses that are concentrated and move along quickly so that students can reach their academic goals faster.

Classes meet once a week for five weeks and are offered in a hybrid format, a combination of in-class and online settings. The accelerated courses are geared toward business classes like accounting and business finance.

“The classes we offer in the accelerated track mode are accounting 1100, accounting 1110 and both principles courses,” said Hansen.

“Half of the student’s work is done online, which may include tests and preparatory lessons. When students come to class they are prepared to engage in active learning,” said Daryl Hansen, dean of business and human services.

By Winter quarter, additional courses will be added to the accelerated track like QuickBooks/Excel 1215, a new course that will test students in the Intuit software. Other courses available for students are general education courses.

“The accelerated track concept is becoming more popular on a national basis. Some of our own faculty have even pursued their academic goals in this manner,” said Hansen. “The concept is just another innovative method that the College engages in to help students earn the credits and degree they desire.” community • mccneb.edu • 6

PROGRAM DELIVERS ON JOBS Students see success with Diesel Technology Degree

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ith a f lourishing transportation industry in the Midwest, graduates of the Diesel Technology program at MCC can be pretty sure their services will be in demand after completing their degree or certificate.

Located at the Applied Technology Center, the Diesel Technology program houses a modern lab where students can train on diesel engines using equipment they will get to utilize in the real world. Additionally, the program goes above and beyond with qualified instructors, as well as guided tours and shadowing opportunities at area dieselfocused businesses and shops.

That type of environment is what led recent MCC graduate Lorali Rockwell to succeed instantly after graduation. A truck driver for close to 20 years, Rockwell decided to pursue a degree in Diesel Technology after being laid off on a couple of occasions at trucking companies. She wanted something that would take her to the next level and make her credentials stand out amongst the others.

“After I took a tour of the facility at ATC I knew that it was for me,” said Rockwell, who recently got married in addition to her graduation. “I’ve seen the College’s commercials that are all about jobs and valuable employment and I figured this was the place for me.”

Rockell had many options upon enrolling. MCC offers three associate degrees in Diesel Technology; heavy equipment, diesel service and power generation. Additionally, the program offers two career certificates; diesel/automotive parts sales and diesel truck. After completing the program,

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students are qualified to repair and maintain the diesel engines that power transportation equipment such as heavy trucks, buses and locomotives. Other diesel technicians and mechanics work on heavy vehicles and mobile equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, road graders, farm tractors and combines. Technicians also repair diesel-powered passenger automobiles, light trucks and boats.

After deciding on diesel service, Rockwell took full advantage of the experienced instructors as well as a tour her class went on to Diesel Specialties, a company located in West Omaha that repairs agriculture and industrial equipment as well as light duty trucks. Upon graduating, Rockwell interviewed at Diesel Specialties and earned a position as a technician at the same place she toured as a student just months earlier.

“My instructors stood behind me and gave me great references to earn my dream job,” she said. Additionally, Rockwell isn’t taking anything for granted. Already the first female graduate of MCC’s Diesel Technology program, Rockwell now has something else to be proud of.

“For the first time in my life, I have weekends off, full benefits and an 8 to 5 job that allows me to spend time with my family,” she said, holding back tears.

For more information about the Diesel Technology program and course offerings in the field, visit mccneb.edu/desl.

Employment in the diesel technology field is expected to grow by nine percent by the year 2022 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

teacher Tuesday Instructors play a big role in student success

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veryone has had a teacher they’ll never forget.

Considering MCC offers so many programs of study, there are countless teachers that a student may never have the opportunity to meet as they progress through their classes. Over the last few months MCC social media has profiled a number of instructors and featured them on social media sites in an effort to share more about who some of MCC’s talented teachers are.

If you’ve taken a human relations or political science class you may have had Tulani Grundy Meadows as your instructor. Or, you may have visited Jamaica or Ghana through the Study Abroad courses she has taught. In either case, she is an instructor who strives to help students find a connection between what she is teaching and what they encounter in their daily lives.

“In the American Government class I teach I ask my class to think about what they did last week and how their everyday activities relate to government and they are often surprised at just how much of a correlation there is,” Grundy Meadows said. “Ultimately, my goal is to spark their curiosity, broaden their world view and encourage them to have a voice in the community,” she continued.

Grundy Meadows is also involved in community work outside of the College where she serves on the 1877 Society board, a group that supports the Omaha Public Library Foundation, and Gesu, a non-profit organization that helps low-income families with purchasing their own home, as well Loves Jazz and Arts Center where the arts are featured and celebrated.

rk a p s o t s i l a o g y Ul timatelyr,oamden t heir world view e curiosity, brage t hem to have a voic and encou munity. in t he com

Alan Cox is another MCC instructor who many students have come to know over the 30 years he has been with the College. Cox teaches automotive technology – a class that covers the complete repair of everything mechanical on an automobile, bumper to bumper – and exercises his teaching philosophy in which he gives a student the tools and knowledge needed for their success. “I let the student take the lead on their learning by making sure they have the support and resources to figure things out,” he said.

Cox also teaches Study Abroad courses and has taken classes to Jamaica and the Galápagos Islands where he and biology instructor Jeba Inbarasu spent time with students exploring biology, human relations skills and geography.

When Cox returned from the Galápagos Islands trip he was so moved after spending time in an environment untouched by pollution that he along with a group of students founded the ecology club. He is committed to making changes to his own habits and to raising awareness about pollution and appreciation for the world around us.

Grundy Meadows and Cox are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the diverse and talented faculty MCC offers. To learn more about our instructors, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and see them featured on Teacher Tuesdays.

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coming full circle MCC graduate now helping students at former high school

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ometimes life’s obstacles can get in the way. Looking back, MCC graduate Patricia Spellman sees those as her building blocks to her success today. A graduate of Omaha North High School, Spellman first sought out a big four-year university to attain her bachelor’s degree upon graduating high school. Soon after though, Spellman had her first child and between a tough class schedule and adjusting to a new life as a mother, she had to put her educational path on hold.

“I began working to help pay for bills but I eventually realized I could do more for a career,” said Spellman.

She decided to enroll at MCC. With the challenging juggling act of being a mother, working and school, her new college’s flexible class scheduling and affordable rates were ideal.

Early successes at MCC encouraged her to go further and she became determined to keep going. Spellman earned her associate degree in human services and chemical dependency counseling and soon after that a bachelor’s degree in social work, finishing what she started at the big four-year university.

“It felt like a calling. People were always calling me, asking for advice. Counseling and social work really fit my personality since I love helping people,” she said.

Spellman now finds herself helping high school students in tough situations as the school social worker for Omaha North High School, a place she’s familiar with. Working with drug addicts, young mothers, gang members, and other at-risk students, she’s been able to connect with students through personal experience as a single mother as well as growing up in North Omaha. She likes to keep things positive and has even helped out with costs for cap and gowns during graduation season and counseled students with suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Additionally, Spellman encourages all of her students to seek an education after high school.

“I saw my path through MCC as one other students should consider. I try to encourage students I am in contact with to try the community college route. Sometimes young students don’t know what they want to do for a career and taking classes at MCC can help them figure out their interests and apply that to a career they’ll love,” she said.

Spellman stays in contact with many of her former students and wants all of them to know that life will be hard but by staying determined and motivated they can do anything they set their mind to. She looks back on her time at MCC as a place where it all started.

Spellman finished, “I don’t know where I’d be without my education. I love my life and I owe a great portion of that to my education.”

“Counseling and social work really fit my personality since I love helping people.”

– Patricia Spellman, MCC graduate.

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around the college MCC culinary team takes home national championship A team of students from MCC’s Institute for the Culinary Arts are national champions after winning the 2015 American Culinary Federation’s Student Team Championship at the ACF National Convention in Orlando, Florida. The team, led by instructor and ICA general manager Brian O’Malley, consisted of five highly skilled student chefs. Prior to the national competition, the team had to qualify via a regional event.

“Winning the national championship is a huge honor,” said O’Malley. “It helps showcase all of the hard work our students put in and it really highlights our culinary school as one of the premier institutions in the country.”

Program helping first-generation students receives grant totaling $1.7 million MCC’s TRiO/Student Support Services programming provides academic and personal support for low-income, firstgeneration college students as well as students with disabilities. The grant renewal will extend MCC’s TRiO programming into 2020, providing 400 students each year access to academic tutoring, coaching, financial literacy and career exploration opportunities— helping students meet basic college requirements and motivating students toward successful completion of their associate degree and transfer to a four-year institution.

“MCC’s TRiO program is an essential component of our comprehensive student services and academic support systems,” said Mark Patten Sr., director of TRiO/student support services at MCC. “We are proud to help our students reach their academic goals through this program. The grant will help us continue to advance this mission.”

SkillUSA national competition sees MCC students dominate Nine students from Metropolitan Community College medaled in competitions at the 51st annual SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. Eight of the winners were part of team-based competitions. Of the 12 competitions that Nebraska high school and college students participated in, four were won by MCC students.

In the Audio-Radio Production competition, Team C consisting of Susannah Meng-Frecker and Joshua Robberts won the silver medal. In the Digital Cinema Production competition, Team G consisting of Lauren Abell and Roland Massow III won the bronze medal. In the Electrical Construction Wiring competition, Dan Riha of Gretna, Nebraska, won the gold medal. In the TeamWorks competition, Team H consisting of Joshua Hall, Eric Karels, Brian Vodvarka and Jared Wilson won the silver medal.

The College has received a five-year grant award from the U.S. Department of Education totaling $1.7 million for TRiO Student Support Services programming. community • mccneb.edu • 10

Q & A with Napa Valley chef and MCC graduate, Tony Incontro What brought you to Napa Valley?

I was following my gut, passion and my dreams! When I left Omaha eight years ago, I moved here to work at Martina House, a well-known Michelin starred restaurant in St. Helena, California, under Chef Todd Humphries. From there, I moved to San Francisco and worked under Chef Staffan Terje at Perbacco & Barbacco, a famous Italian restaurant considered to be one of the most authentic in the United States. While there, I was lead line cook and later became a junior sous chef.

What is your current role in Napa Valley?

I am currently at Del Dotto Vineyards. I am the Winery’s salumist (cured meats maestro) and executive sous chef. Del Dotto is a family owned, small production winery. We do fine dining lunch and dinners with VIP customers and their guests. Lunches are usually four or five courses and the dinners are anywhere from five to eight while all paired with different wines.

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What’s your favorite part about your career?

Getting to do what I love every day. It does not feel like work even when it's a 12-14 hour day on my feet. Being allowed the freedom of creativity and to butcher and salt cure meat is what it all comes down to for me.

What did you learn from MCC that you carry with you today?

I’m proud to take with me the humbleness and team-oriented work ethic that the Institute displays to their faculty and students. And of course the hands-on and attentive instructed courses are things that helped excite and prepare me. I’m also very proud that the facilities I was trained in at MCC helped form me and open the door to what I truly did imagine was out there. I also discovered that you do not need to go to the other very good, but very expensive, culinary schools to become a professional and to achieve success.

What words of advice would you give to a student just beginning their journey at ICA? Find your passion! Be ready for daily challenges. It's a fast-paced job and career. Show up to class and work early and ready with a game face on and sharp knives. Push to learn and understand every little detail that's going on around you. Whether it's an assignment in class or a dish going onto the menu at work, pay attention and ask questions. Be humble, and just say "yes chef." It's all about what you put in, is what you get out in this wonderful industry.

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expansion update

The latest on the Fort Omaha Campus expansion

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f you’ve driven along 30th Street in North Omaha you have probably noticed construction work on the south end of the Fort Omaha Campus. The construction is the beginning stages of the Fort Omaha Campus expansion project, which begins a new era of investing in students and communities via the Center for Advanced and Emerging Technology, the Construction Education Center and the Academic Skills Center.

Stan Horrell, director of campus planning and sustainability, gives the public frequent updates on the project in Building 10 at the Fort Omaha Campus. In the most recent update, Horrell shared recent project renderings and information pertaining to the details of the new buildings as worked on in conjunction with partners like Tetrad, Holland Basham Architects, BNIM, BCDM and Lamp Rynearson and EGA. Each building will contain areas of specialties catered to the modern student as well as the community. A 99,300 squarefoot building, the Construction Education Center will likely house programs such as Air Conditioning Refrigeration/ Heating Technology, Construction Technology, Electrical Technology & Electrical Apprenticeship, Plumbing and Industrial Distribution. The largest of the three new buildings, the Construction Education Center will be the northernmost building of the three along 30th Street. Horrell also shared details about large learning spaces for students along with lounges and offices for faculty and staff.

At 68,800 square-feet, the Center for Advanced and Emerging Technology will be a building designed for filling in-demand jobs in information technology and other career

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fields utilizing current facets of the College’s PROTO Lab and the Fab Lab in addition to future College program expansion. The building will provide the tools and space to develop innovative academic programming and target industry-specific emerging technologies. Focuses of the Center for Advanced and Emerging Technology facility will be to house collaboration projects where area businesses can work with students on prototyping, training and other important career skills. To accommodate this type of learning, the building will include large, open spaces for multi-functional purposes.

Supplying students and the community furthermore will be the Academic Skills Center. At 74,000 square-feet, the Academic Skills Center will be an all-encompassing building with areas like welcome services, career exploration, student intake services, academic mentors and flexible classrooms or work spaces that MCC students or the community may use.

Featuring three floors, the building will have spaces dedicated to student and community needs. A large bookstore, expanded food options and testing services will also be available.

Other aspects of the project include parking lots and a courtyard walkway for foot traffic on campus. The three new buildings are expected to be completed in time for Fall quarter 2017.

For more information about the Fort Omaha Campus expansion, visit mccneb.edu/businessandcommunity/focconstruction.asp.

take it further scholarship

Scholarship offers additional incentive for high school students

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t never hurts to get a head start. With MCC’s dual enrollment, career academy and CollegeNow! programs, high school students can get a jump on earning college credits while in high school. This method can get students acclimated to college courses and prepare them for their postsecondary journey. Now imagine there being an even bigger incentive to finish those courses. Upon finishing, high school students are eligible for the Take it Further Scholarship, an awarded scholarship that goes to students who have completed college courses while in high school and want to continue their education at MCC. The scholarship begins in the Fall quarter and provides $250 for four consecutive quarters. It covers tuition and fees and isn’t income based, meaning it is open to all types of students.

The idea of the Take it Further Scholarship is to help high school students taking dual enrollment, CollegeNow! and career academy courses see the light at the end of the tunnel.

“This scholarship helps add some extra incentive to finishing their college courses and continue their educational career at MCC after graduating from high school,” said Lisa Richards, assistant director of enrollment services.

While dual enrollment, CollegeNow! and career academy courses each vary, each of them is geared toward helping high school students earn college credits. Some of those high school students decide to use the credits to transfer to a fouryear institution or don’t continue with college. With the Take it Further Scholarship, students can continue exploring career opportunities at an affordable rate, less than other four-year postsecondary schools in Nebraska.

“Taking college classes while in high school is a great way to get ahead and keep momentum going through your postsecondary career. With the Take it Further Scholarship, it makes it even more appealing,” said Richards.

For more information about earning credits while in high school, visit mccneb.edu/secondarypartnerships

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HEalthy Aspirations

Students achieve their goals through partnership and training

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multitude of health science programs are offered at Metropolitan Community College and include nursing, dental assisting, paramedicine and respiratory, to name a few. A student participating in these programs can expect to have classroom and lab time, as well as a possibility of training outside of these settings, all of which equip them with the skills they’ll need in a professional position.

One such training opportunity is now available through a newly formed partnership between University of Nebraska Medical Center and MCC. The partnership benefits students at both institutions by providing teaching experience to post-doctoral UNMC students, while offering MCC students a chance to participate in a month-long period assisting in research.

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Michael Flesch, dean of mathematics and natural science at MCC, said “I am excited that we get to send our talented students over to UNMC to work with the postdocs. This is a great opportunity for our students that may help shape where they want to go in their career.” One student who took part in a recent research stint is Richard Amoussou. “Working in the medical field is a family tradition, so I jumped at the chance to take part in the program. The best part of my experience was getting hands-on experience working with the advanced equipment used at UNMC and has reinforced my dreams of being in the medical field even more,” he said.

Another student whose career goals have been shaped by the opportunities available through MCC’s health programs is 2015 MCC graduate, Alma Ortega.

While her dream wasn’t always clear, she recognized that once she got adjusted to her new environment she would be able to nail it down.

An immigrant from Mexico, Ortega knew that someday she wanted to go to school and get a college education.

After earning her GED, she enrolled at MCC taking general courses, unsure of what she ultimately wanted to do. But when a friend told her about the respiratory care program at MCC, she took the initiative and began job shadowing a respiratory care therapist at a local hospital.

“I really enjoyed the job shadowing opportunity. I connected with a Hispanic family while shadowing, and I was able to help them communicate with the doctors utilizing my bilingual skills,” said Ortega. “From then on I knew there was a great need for somebody to assist Hispanic individuals and families in the healthcare industry, and it helped shape my decision to earn a degree in respiratory care technology at MCC.” After meeting with instructors and experiencing the small class size, along with factoring in the low tuition rates, Ortega knew she’d found the right place.

“The cost is very affordable and as a mother who also works full time to pay for school, it was nice to have a f lexible class schedule. I received lots of help from my instructors as well as places like the writing and math centers at the South Omaha Campus,” she said.

After years of hard work, Ortega graduated from MCC this past spring with her associate degree. And things got even better for her when she landed a job utilizing her new degree at Children’s Hospital.

Ortega stated, “My education is very valuable to me. It’s a great way to ensure your future and all the amazing things that can come as a result of earning your degree.

I am now doing what I love, and it wouldn’t have been possible without my education from MCC.” With the knowledge gained through the partnership and from the experienced MCC faculty and staff, students learn the skills necessary to f ind success in the health f ield.

To learn more about careers in the health industry, visit mccneb.edu/future.

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MCC Abuzz with Innovation New IT initiatives highlight College's future

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hen educating tomorrow’s information technology workforce, it’s vital the institution’s offerings be ahead of the curve. With MCC’s recent additions and current projects, students at the area’s most affordable college will be prepared for tomorrow’s careers in the growing field of information technology. The new initiatives include the completion of the PROTO Lab, a unique learning environment at the Mastercraft building in downtown Omaha; the BringItOn Challenge, a technology competition for high school students; the automate trailer, a mobile lab housed with modern 3-D printers and other machines; and the Center for Advanced and Emerging Technology, a brand new building being constructed at the Fort Omaha Campus.

Upon entering the College’s off-site PROTO Lab inside the Mastercraft building at 13th and Nicholas streets, a visitor can immediately recognize the space’s modern design. The new 1,400 square-foot space is part of a $2.49 million grant the College received last winter. Short for Providing Realistic On-Ramps to Technology Occupations, the PROTO Lab is meant to introduce students to an information technology career while getting hands-on and avoiding typical technology jargon that might turn some students away.

“Not every student is going to be interested in IT if all teachers do is discuss algorithms and other industry jargon. We wanted to let students get their hands dirty and work on machines that utilize the basics of STEM,” said Tom Pensabene, executive director of MCC’s Workforce Innovation Division. “The hope is that those same students might explore a career in IT once they get a good knowledge base of STEM using equipment in our PROTO Lab to create works of art or other pieces they design in classes held there.”

Meaning science, technology, engineering and math, STEM careers are growing and there is a great need in the area for employees with these soft skills. Data centers and other IT-based companies are basing their operations in the Omaha metropolitan area, and workers are needed to fill those positions. The new PROTO Lab can help do just that with students creating projects utilizing 3-D printers, software programs and engineering skills. The lab will take the next step once it is combined with the Fab Lab at the Fort Omaha Campus inside the new Center for Advanced and Emerging Technology in 2017.

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A former furniture factory, the Mastercraft building houses many startup companies and entrepreneurial ventures.

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"We wanted to let students get their hands dirty and work on machines that utilize the basics of STEM.” - Tom Pensabene Reaching beyond college students is the BringItOn Challenge, a competition for high school students that will see them submit solutions to problems presented by partnering businesses. In conjunction with Interface Web School, the goal for MCC’s BringItOn Challenge is to introduce young students to STEM careers before they enter postsecondary education. By providing real-world experiences, students will get to work with area businesses as well as meet with mentors on a weekly basis to help develop their concepts. The mentors will be made up of faculty members from area high schools, MCC and the Interface Web School.

A company based in Omaha, the Interface Web School’s mission is to build people’s knowledge for the Web and increase the talent pool for technology-based companies, whether small startups or large corporations in The BringItOn Challenge will test the creative and problem-solving skills of area high school students.

the area. The challenge will begin this fall, with students presenting their final product in April 2016.

“We envision businesses submitting requests for proposals which will be matched to high school teams who will then partner with industry and MCC mentors to develop great solutions to modern problems,” said Art Brown, MCC faculty member. “These businesses and nonprofits can then choose to accept the solutions.”

The BringItOn Challenge isn’t the only way MCC is engaging high school students in information technology.

With the automate trailer, the College can bring a modern lab to area high schools, letting students engage in active learning on machines that require technical skills.

“We are trying to get students excited about careers in IT in a relatable fashion,” said Pensabene. “IT can be very abstract.

But by making it a hands-on experience, our goal is that it makes it more realistic for young students.”

To learn more about information technology careers offered at MCC, visit mccneb.edu/info.

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FRIENDS AND ALUMNI NETWORK SPOTLIGHT Get to know MCC Alumna Christine Harry

Christine Harry now works as head outreach coordinator for the Institue for the Culinary Arts.

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ave you ever had a passion for something and were unsure whether or not to follow it? For MCC alumna Christine Harry, that passion was cooking and was the gut feeling she decided to follow when she enrolled at MCC’s Institute for the Culinary Arts.

After raising three kids and working at an art gallery, Harry felt there was no time like the present to go back to school and earn the degree she always wanted. With three kids and night classes, she slowly earned that degree in the Fall of 2012.

“I had a lot of help from my husband and family.

They were very supportive of my decision to go back to school,” she said. “I loved to cook and enjoy food but I wanted to do it for real.”

Starting off with an interest in baking before switching gears, Harry finished her degree in Culinary Arts and Management, with the knowledge and experience to better equip her to run her very own kitchen at a private resort in Minnesota during the summer months.

“The educational base the culinary arts program at MCC gave me was phenomenal,” said Harry.

“I wouldn’t be as successful as I am today without it.”

In December 2013, Harry took up the part-time position as the outreach coordinator for the institute and helps give tours and information to prospective students as well as working with community members on strengthening the relationship the institute has with the region. The institute is one of the best in the country, which makes Harry’s job that much easier.

“The level of quality is unmatched in the Midwest.

The faculty, staff and facilities help prepare students for what they’ll encounter in the real world,” she said. Sharing her special perspective as an alumna and her passion with prospective students and community partners makes her job enjoyable.

For more information about the Friends and Alumni Network, visit mccneb.edu/foundation/fanetwork.asp community • mccneb.edu • 20

Get involved Student organizations offer new opportunities

To learn more about student organizations, visit mccneb.edu/studentlife/organizations.asp or stop by Student Services.

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ou may be new to the Omaha area and MCC as a whole, attending class on a campus you’ve never been to or would like to meet new people, try new things and develop new skills. All these are perfect reasons to consider joining an organization. As a member of a student organization you have the opportunity to participate in activities you may have never considered. This is also a great way to network with not only new friends, but also industry contacts who may be able to tell you about scholarships, internships and job openings. The list of student organizations at MCC offers something for just about everyone.

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Ecology Club F

or the conservationist, the Ecology Club may be the ideal organization. The club was founded after a group of students returned from a study abroad trip to the Galapagos Islands. The club’s mission is to have a positive impact on the environment and raise awareness about the importance of caring for our local ecosystem. They have visited Schramm Park, which included a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium, hiking the nature trails and digging for fossils. The club also went behind the scenes at the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and toured the rare plant lab, had front row seats for lemur training and interacted with and fed an Indian rhino. Most recently they went on a guided tour of the MCC greenhouses, aquaponics systems and honeybee hives at the Fort Omaha Campus.

aiga

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f you are a graphic arts student, the American Institute of Graphic Arts could be the perfect fit.

AIGA is dedicated to advancing graphic design as a profession and providing a place for designers to exchange ideas and information. Members participate in workshops, seminars, conferences and art shows, all of which are great places to form relationships within the industry and keep up on current trends. In addition, creative workshops are offered such as calligraphy, ceramics and working with clay. AIGA also has fun monthly “NERDbraska” outings where they hang out and catch up.

Phi Theta Kappa

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n organization recognized by the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges as the official honor fraternity for two-year colleges is Phi Theta Kappa. This international honor society recognizes and encourages scholarships among students enrolled in community colleges and being a member of PTK is considered an honor and a privilege. Students with at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA and 12 completed hours of college-level coursework are invited to join PTK four times a year. Members develop leadership skills by participating in workshops, seminars, fundraisers and community events.

Global Student Club I

f you are interested in broadening your cultural horizons you might be interested in the Global Student Club.

Their motto is “Where diversity comes to live and global leaders are born,” and the group is focused on sharing in multicultural experiences and providing a friendly environment for students of all backgrounds.

Some of their activities include the annual International Fair, the Global Citizenship Conference, international student orientation, and having group potlucks, miniature golf and paintball outings. community • mccneb.edu • 22

Metropolitan Community College P.O. Box 3777 Omaha, NE 68103-0777

Stay informed. Connect with your ‘Community.’ issuu.com/mccneb @mccneb