Nevada State College Black & Gold Annual 2016

black gold [+]

ANNUAL [2016] YEAR

IN REVIEW

A NEVADA STATE COLLEGE PUBLICATION

[inside]

NEVADA STATE SCORPIONS ‘THEY CHOSE NSC.’ MUCH LIKE OUR STUDENTS, THE LOCAL SCORPIONS CHOSE OUR CAMPUS

Nevada State AT A GLANCE

3,747 18

TOTAL STUDENT BODY

12% GROWTH FROM PREVIOUS YEAR

42

% EMPLOYEES OF COLOR*

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

MAJORS Allied Health Sciences* Biology

Concentration options in cell and molecular, ecology and evolution, and physiology

Business Administration Communications Criminal Justice Elementary Education

Concentration option in special education

Engineering Technology*

Concentration options in computer technology, electronics, and telecommunications

English

56%

OF STUDENTS RECEIVED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

School of Education

74

$20 MILLION

IN FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED BY NSC TO STUDENTS IN 2016

School of Nursing

216 130 2016 GRADUATES

Male 25%

FIRST GENERATION STUDENTS

Hispanics of Any Race

25 and up 55%

Law Enforcement

Mathematics

Concentration options in statistics and applied math, and mathematics education

Nursing Nursing (RN to BSN) Psychology Secondary Education

Speech Pathology Visual Media

Specialization options in animation and digital cinema production

MINORS Biology Business

Communications

1%

Counseling

12%

Criminal Justice

9% 28% 2%

Race and Ethnicity Unknown

6%

Two or more races

6%

Based upon fall 2016 enrollment. *Full-time employees.

Interdisciplinary Studies

Chemistry

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

White

AGE 17-24 45%

Female 75%

62%

Black or African American

2016 GRADUATES

GENDER

PART-TIME STUDENTS

Asian

Concentration option in pre-law

Concentration options in biology, English, history, mathematics, and physical sciences

61%

American Indian or Alaska Native

History

Management

School of Liberal Arts and Sciences

2016 GRADUATES

Environmental and Resource Science

36%

Deaf Studies

ETHNICITY

Educational Instruction Educational Technology English Entrepreneurship Environmental and Resource Science *Only available to CSN students.

Gender and Sexuality Studies History Law Enforcement Mathematics Professional Writing Promotion Psychology Social Justice Sociology Visual Media

BLACK & GOLD ANNUAL

Thank you for reading the Black & Gold Annual.

A Nevada State College Publication

Your feedback and story ideas are welcome!

nsc.edu

Please submit entries to:

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BLACK & GOLD ANNUAL EDITORIAL STAFF Managing Editor

twitter.com/nevadastate

Yanné Givens Nevada State College

instagram.com/nevadastatecollege

Marketing & Communications Specialist Yanne.Givens@nsc.edu

Sign up for the monthly Black & Gold e-newsletter: nsc.edu/blackgold

Editor Robyn Campbell-Ouchida

1300 Nevada State Drive

All Write Business Communications

Henderson, NV 89002

ouchida@cox.net

(702) 992-2000 Editor NEVADA STATE COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT

Ellen Guerra

At Nevada State College, excellence fosters opportunity.

Nevada State College

Excellence in teaching leads to innovative, technology-

Director of Marketing & Communications

rich learning opportunities that promote the acquisition of

Ellen.Guerra@nsc.edu

interdisciplinary knowledge and skills. Quality, affordable fouryear degree programs open the door to career success and

For information on donating to the college:

enhanced quality of life for a diverse population of students. Our graduates, in turn, foster the greatest opportunity – the promise

Dr. J. Russell Raker, III

of a stronger community and a better future for all of Nevada.

Nevada State College Associate Vice President, Institutional Advancement

NEVADA STATE COLLEGE LEADERSHIP

Russell.Raker@nsc.edu

Bart Patterson

(702) 992-2356

President Dr. Robin Cresiski Interim Provost and Executive Vice President

To share alumni updates or learn about the alumni association: Danielle Welch

Kevin Butler

Nevada State College

Vice President, Finance & Business Operations

Alumni Relations & Development Operations Manager Danielle.Welch@nsc.edu

Dr. Edith Fernández Associate Vice President, Community Engagement

Design and layout by Laura Malmgren

& Diversity Initiatives

Freelance Graphic Design Professional

Dr. J. Russell Raker, III Associate Vice President, Institutional Advancement

Smudge Pot Creative smudgepotcreative.com

Dr. Tony Scinta

Cover photo and additional photography by

Vice Provost of Academic Innovation & Student Success

Ian Probasco, NSC Videographer.

Dr. Dennis Potthoff Dean, Education Dr. Andy Kuniyuki Dean, Liberal Arts & Sciences Dr. Neal Rosenburg Dean, Nursing Dr. Richard Yao Dean of Students

Additional photos provided by NSC vendors, employees, and students.

Many thanks to all who contributed to the 2016 Black & Gold Annual.

Letter from the PRESIDENT It has been a remarkable year of excitement and growth for Nevada State College, which is captured in our fourth edition of the Black & Gold Annual.

This publication was developed especially for our close-knit Scorpion community stakeholders to celebrate and acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of the college.

This past year, we settled into our two new buildings, grateful for the additional classrooms, labs, and community spaces. These new buildings have proved to be much more than just an addition of space. They have also provided new opportunities and ways to grow our family-like culture.

BART PATTERSON

Impromptu table tennis games occur in our Rogers Student Center between faculty and students, we now host nationally recognized speakers in our new event space, and students collaborate more in our state-of-the-art study rooms. These new buildings have allowed us to be closer not only in geographical location but in human connection as well.

In May, we graduated our largest class ever, with more than 400 degrees conferred. This new class of alumni officially pushed us over the 3,000 mark for total graduates. While these well-prepared graduates were sent into our community to lead and serve, we also welcomed our largest incoming freshman class in September. This group reflects double-digit growth in full-time enrollment. It also boasts the highest incoming high school GPA we have experienced to date while still maintaining the rich diversity of our student population.

Providing academic enrichment through hands-on learning has always been a pillar of our success. I’m thrilled to share with you that through a new partnership with the Nevada Institute for Autonomous Systems, the city of Henderson, and the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development, the Henderson Unmanned Vehicle Range at Nevada State College will provide commercial UAS designers and operators a location where they can test their products in a safe and accessible environment. This drone test site program fits in perfectly with our focus on STEM topics, and we look forward to the collaboration and advancement it will bring to Nevada.

Lastly, this upcoming fall we will celebrate a major milestone for our college: our 15th anniversary. The journey has been unpredictable, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. We are proud to say that with our dedicated faculty, staff, and awe-inspiring students, Nevada State College continues to be the difference in our community and is positioned to grow even more. We look forward to celebrating with you in 2017!

Be bold. Be great. Be State!

Bart Patterson President

What’s INSIDE 4 4

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NEVADA STATE SCORPIONS ‘They chose NSC.’ Much like our students, the local scorpions chose our campus

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION TEACHING THE TEACHERS NSC is part of the solution for the future of Southern Nevada

SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS & SCIENCES GROWING GREEN NSC is “growing interest” in horticulture science

SPARKING STEM Nevada State is part of the national effort to get more students involved in the sciences

SCHOOL OF NURSING CARING COUNTS School of Nursing continues its phenomenal growth, utilizing the Caring Science Model

STUDENT LIFE PERSISTENT PROGRESS Recent HSI designation continues advancement of multiculturalism on NSC’s campus

RAISING THE BAR NSC’s comprehensive campaign exceeds goal, raising record amount

NEVADA ‘They chose NSC.’ Much like our students, the Just how did Nevada State College (NSC) end up with a scorpion mascot? According to Dr. Andy Kuniyuki, dean of the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS), the scorpion claimed NSC, not the other way around.

He shares, “We are the only school that has been claimed by its mascot. In fall 2002, when the college opened its doors to the Dawson Building, the scorpions were already there, waiting to invite the rest of us in. They were willing to share their space with this budding new college.”

The scorpions must have known what a comprehensive educational experience NSC would continually bring to its students and staff alike. In 2002, the first class of NSC students voted to select the institution’s mascot and colors. “During our early years, gold scorpions made regular appearances around the Dawson Building,” says Dr. Rho Hudson, an associate professor of education.

“The scorpion mascot and the school colors of gold and black were a perfect fit with our surrounding landscape.”

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STATE SCORPIONS local scorpions chose our campus

[ 2016] Nevada State College [5]

Students embrace SCOTTY the Scorpion and the values he embodies.

“We are the only school that has been claimed by its mascot.”

– Dr. Andy Kuniyuki

The college’s 6-foot live scorpion mascot

Stinger. Kuniyuki shares that the committee

in costume was first introduced, without

selections were based in part on the name’s

a name, to the greater community in

total number of submissions as well as on

April 2012 during the Henderson Heritage

other criteria, including creativity and the

Days Parade. Quickly embraced by the

reflection of NSC’s spirit.

community, a campuswide effort took place that September during the fall 2012 semester

After the finalists were chosen, an election

to name the creature that would come to

took place, during which nearly 250 votes

embody NSC’s sense of freedom and unique

were received. “The name Scotty was

educational opportunities.

chosen during the campuswide selection process held that September,” says Kuniyuki.

“Students, faculty, and staff members had

He goes on to explain how Scotty became

a unique opportunity to contribute to the

SCOTTY, the acronym, which was suggested

history of Nevada State College by taking

by a student. It stands for Scorpion

part in the official naming of the college’s

Community of Today, Tomorrow, Yesterday.

scorpion mascot,” recalls Kuniyuki. During the first two weeks of the naming process,

“The overwhelming participation and

people across campus submitted more than

enthusiasm for the naming of our mascot is a

200 name ideas via an online nomination

true representation of the spirit and campus

form. An on-campus committee composed

pride at Nevada State College,” commented

of students, alumni, faculty, staff, and

NSC President Bart Patterson at the time.

administrators eventually narrowed the

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overwhelming number of entries down

Keeping in line with the mascot’s sense of

to three finalists: Scotty, Sullivan, and

the campus as a community, it was only

fitting that the most prominent feature seen

get the geologic feature renamed Mount

when driving to the 509-acre campus should

Scorpion, the U.S. Board on Geographic

be called Mount Scorpion. On April 30,

Names approved the proposal in April 2015.

2012, two major events happened involving

According to Kuniyuki, “Student leaders,

NSC: Bart Patterson was approved as the

faculty, and staff all felt that being able to

college’s president, and NSC representatives

name the recognizable landmark which

informed the Board of Regents that they

overlooks the campus after the school’s

intended to seek official federal naming of

mascot would embody the tenacity and grit

the large mountain just behind the college’s

of the NSC spirit. The federal government

locale. Shortly after, President Patterson and

finally realized we were right all along and

then-Nevada State Student Alliance Student

officially named it Mount Scorpion.”

Body President Deuvall Dorsey hiked to the top, metaphorically paving the way for NSC.

It has become a tradition to hike Mount Scorpion each February and again in

In 2014, the Office of Community

October. Faculty, staff, students, and alumni

Engagement and Diversity Initiatives (CEDI)

join in the hikes. Each hike, as they reach

officially took on the naming project.

the summit, they are able to note the

The process involved several local, state,

extraordinary growth of the campus.

and federal agencies, and it required getting letters of support from county and tribal governments, shares CEDI Program Coordinator Amey Evaluna, who managed project communications. After three years of working behind the scenes to

*For more information on Mount Scorpion, please visit nsc.edu/MountScorpion. *To keep up with SCOTTY the Scorpion, find him on Facebook at facebook.com/ SCOTTYtheScorpion.

[ 2016] Nevada State College [7]

DENNIS POTTHOFF, PH.D. Dr. Dennis Potthoff fell in love with teaching more than 40 years ago. The ten years he spent teaching middle school students was pivotal to a career that also includes stints in higher education at four institutions. Currently, Dr. Potthoff is especially fascinated by the topics of student engagement, collaborative teaching and learning processes, and the best models for preparing new teachers for work in schools situated within an increasingly diverse and technological democratic society. He is honored to serve as the dean of the School of Education.

SCHOOL OF EDUC

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Letter from the DEAN What a difference a year makes! A year ago, this dean’s message reminded readers of the K–12 teacher licensure programs offered by the School of Education (SoE) and invited them to visit the newly christened Nursing, Science & Education (NSE) building.

It is clear that the excitement generated by the build-out of our campus initiated considerable momentum. A five-year Strategic Plan, conceived by SoE faculty in fall 2015, produced three key strategic goals:

EDUCATION

ATION

“It is clear that the excitement generated by the build-out of our campus initiated considerable momentum.”

Goal 1: Support the Teacher Pipeline—find more teachers for K–12 schools.

Goal 2: Support Student Success—help students reach their educational goals.

Goal 3: Enhance Program Quality—improve existing programs and create new ones.

A Teacher Academy program, in collaboration with select Clark County School District (CCSD) high schools, is in the works. Juniors and seniors interested in teaching will have the opportunity to explore this career option.

Support for CCSD Alternative Route to Licensure (ARL) teaching candidates has been expanded. Streamlined articulation agreements with both the College of Southern Nevada and Western Nevada College will smooth the pathway for transfer students. New programs, including an inclusive early childhood program, a deaf education program, and a master’s in speech language pathology program, have been proposed.

The SoE has also expanded its efforts to assist pre-education and pre-speech pathology majors who are preparing for the Praxis Core Exam. Pass rates are climbing! The SoE has taken steps to strengthen support for our Upward Bound program, which prepares high school students from historically underserved groups for college. This effort aligns perfectly with the NSC mission.

The quality of the speech language pathology program will be significantly enhanced with the opening of a RiteCare clinic, a collaboration with the Scottish Rite Foundation, which provides free clinic services to young children. The implementation of an SoE-wide assessment plan, which will provide evidence of the quality of performance of SoE students, strengthens the school’s commitment to continuous program improvement.

Dennis Potthoff, Ph.D. Dean, School of Education [ 2016] Nevada State College [9]

Alumni PROFILE After graduating from NSC in the spring of 2016, Alexandria

Alo has continued her dedication to working with autistic children in the field of speech language pathology. Her sense

jojojoshuua Showing love for our favorite major at NSC by wearing our shirts!! #ElementaryAndSpecialEducation #BeBoldBeGreatBeState #NSC

of quiet grace helped her immensely in interactions with students, faculty, and peers, and is now benefiting her career.

An excellent student who maintained over a 3.9 GPA at Nevada State, Alexandria represents all that is right in the field of education. She is bright, dedicated, and committed to using her strengths to help others. Although she could have chosen a career path with greater recognition or a larger paycheck, Alexandria has chosen to spend her time making the lives of others better. By providing students with the means to communicate their wants and needs, she will be improving

ALEXANDRIA ALO

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our community, our state, and our way of life.

Faculty SPOTLIGHT Why did you choose Nevada State College?

I chose NSC because they were addressing a much-needed issue within the field of speech language pathology.

EDUCATION

ms.leeshy I’m so grateful for Amanda Vandehei and the rest of School of Ed department. I learned so much from them.

Although a master’s degree is required for most speech language pathologists (SLPs) to work, Nevada allows those with a B.A. to work in the public school setting. NSC’s program was designed to ensure that students were prepared to work in the Clark County School District (CCSD) after graduation.

What is the best thing about teaching at NSC? I am happy to act as instructor, advisor, and mentor for so many wonderful SLP students.

What inspires you?

I have a strong desire to ensure that students are ready to work with children. I use my grandson as my guide: would I allow this student to work with my grandson? If so, they are ready to move forward. If not, what can I do to assist in their development?

ELIZABETH MEYEROWITZ, ED.D. Assistant Professor of Speech Language Pathology

What’s on your nightstand/what are you reading or listening to?

I am an avid reader of mystery fiction, and I am currently listening to the Hamilton soundtrack.

Finally, knowing that NSC’s mascot is a scorpion, what would you do if you saw a real live scorpion?

Scorpions are a familiar sight to me after living in Arizona for 30 years. My son found a scorpion when we first moved here.

I must admit, it is no longer a living specimen.

[ 2016] Nevada State College [11]

TEACHING NSC is part of the solution for the “There is no greater challenge for our state right now. We need to have an adequate supply of fully licensed and effective teachers for the children of this state.”

– Dr. Dennis Potthoff

“I believe that Nelson Mandela got it right when he declared, ‘There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.’ All children deserve a great education. We need to find a wellprepared teacher for every classroom.” These are the words of Dr. Dennis Potthoff, dean of the School of Education, who is on a crusade to provide more qualified teachers. He is quick to remind readers that from its inception, Nevada State College (NSC) has been a strong proponent of teacher/educator preparation, and this mindset continues to grow.

Citing a national study that projects the number of school-aged children living in Nevada to increase by 26 percent between 2012 and 2024, Potthoff notes that this rate of increase will be the fastest of the 50 states.

“There is no greater challenge for our state right now. We need to have an adequate supply of fully licensed and effective teachers for the children of this state,” he says. “We cannot tell parents that we don’t

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THE TEACHERS future of Southern Nevada have enough teachers or schools; failure

Increasing the “teacher pipeline,” as it has

is not an option. To meet these demands,

come to be called, is something Potthoff

we have to be innovative, aggressive, and

strongly believes in. The three strategic

creative with our recruitment.”

goals of NSC’s School of Education are: 1) increasing NSC’s contribution to the pipeline;

“The Clark County School District (CCSD)

2) elevating the success of NSC’s students;

is in a unique situation,” he says. “This area

and 3) enhancing the programming available

grew so fast over the past 30 to 40 years that

to students. These objectives work in tandem.

the district fell behind in staffing teachers.”

And, as Potthoff notes, in order to reach

In fact, he explains, Nevada’s growth

these goals, two broad categories of actions

outpaced its educational infrastructure,

are being employed: 1) building on the

and the continuation of that lag means that

existing NSC programs; and 2) putting forth

the teacher shortage persisted. In recent

new innovative programs to help further the

years, increasingly more states are reporting

teacher pipeline.

teacher shortages.

Potthoff explains that the Clark County “There is no one solution to this problem,”

School District has begun recruiting teachers

comments Potthoff. “It’s a challenge that needs

in a variety of nontraditional ways. Nevada

to be approached from many angles.” Just

State College works with CCSD’s Alternative

as families utilize various means to meet their

Route to Licensure program (for those who

children’s needs, preparing qualified teachers

have bachelor’s degrees in subjects other

takes creativity and innovation. Potthoff is

than education but want to teach) and is

helping Nevada State College discover new

also partnering with the district to reach out

ways to meet this necessary demand.

to current high school students in an effort

[ 2016] Nevada State College [13]

to encourage them to consider teaching as

Potthoff also explains NSC’s TRIO Upward

a profession. “We are going to have to find

Bound program, which provides fundamental

more teachers internally, and that means

support to participants in preparation for

selling Nevadans on the value of teaching,”

college entrance. The program, which serves

says Potthoff.

high school students from low-income families and/or families in which neither parent holds

He continues, saying, “A Teacher Academy

a bachelor’s degree, has a goal of increasing

Project is in the works, where through building

the rate at which participants complete

partnerships with designated schools, we

secondary education and enroll in and

will identify junior- and senior-level students

eventually graduate from postsecondary

interested in teaching and allow them to

institutions. “TRIO programs are a very

complete some of the college coursework

important part of NSC programming, and

and training while they are still in high school,”

the School of Education is proud to serve as

he says. “For example, we are engaged in

a home for this work,” says Potthoff. “We are

the early stages of a potential collaboration

convinced that there are active TRIO high

with Mojave High School on a cohort-based

school students that are future teachers, and

program where students would spend two

it’s our job to find them.”

years at the College of Southern Nevada before transferring to NSC to finish the

Another place that potential teachers are

requirements for college graduation and

being recruited from is right on campus.

teacher licensure.”

“There are so many students that haven’t yet figured out what they want to do,” says

“We try to make our entire student body aware of the fact that teaching is a program option on our campus.

We would like to show them there are other pathways.”

– Dr. Dennis Potthoff

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Potthoff. “We try to make our entire student

of Education. Dire circumstances often

body aware of the fact that teaching is a

generate amazing accomplishment. Crisis

program option on our campus. We would

is a great motivator. The severe and likely

like to show them there are other pathways.”

ongoing shortage of K–12 teachers creates an environment that makes authentic

As part of the key strategy for new

collaboration more possible. It truly is an all-

programming that will also help build the

hands-on-deck situation; the NSC School of

teacher pipeline, NSC recently proposed

Education is committed to working closely

four ideas to the Nevada System of Higher

with colleagues across our own campus, with

Education (NSHE) for discussion and,

other four- and two-year NSHE institutions, with

hopefully, future approval and funding.

K–12 school districts, and with organizations

These include an inclusive early childhood

such as What’s Next Nevada and the Nevada

education program (to work with children

Consortium on the Teacher Pipeline. No single

from birth to age 8), a deaf education

institution or entity can successfully achieve

program, a master’s degree in speech

what needs to be done. Working together,

language pathology, and a program that

however, I am confident that we can make a

would prepare more math and science

difference for children and families.”

teachers for secondary schools.

Summing it up, Potthoff shares the following thoughts: “I am so proud of the work we are doing in the Nevada State College School

For more information about the programs within the School of Education, please visit nsc.edu/education.

NSC students take classes at local schools, where they are able to gain real world experience working with students in the classroom.

[ 2016] Nevada State College [15]

ANDY KUNIYUKI, PH.D. Dr. Andy Kuniyuki serves as the dean of Liberal Arts & Sciences.

He received his B.S. (biology) from the University of Hawaii and his Ph.D. (genetics) from the University of California. His belief that biology is pre-eminent began with his study of the Hawaiian Drosophila and continued with his many research endeavors employing monoclonal antibody, tissue culture, oligonucleotide, and immunodiagnostic technologies.

SCHOOL OF LIB ARTS SCIE [16] black [+] gold ANNUAL

Letter from the DEAN Dear Friends, It has been another busy, exciting year in the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS) as our dedicated faculty and staff continue to provide new opportunities for our students and the larger community.

We are especially pleased to introduce new majors, including the Bachelor of Arts in communication degree, which allows students to concentrate on either public relations or media studies. We also created a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in allied health sciences in conjunction with the College of Southern Nevada (CSN). Through this partnership, CSN students complete three years of study in technical fields, such as sonography and health information technology, and then transfer to NSC to complete their bachelor’s degrees and gain essential skills in communication and leadership, which are increasingly in demand among employers. The degree is designed to meet the needs of working health professionals, ensuring we continue to provide accessible educational pathways for the Southern Nevada community.

LIBERAL ARTS

ERAL AND NCES

“I am incredibly proud of the many projects and experiences we provided our students in the past year to enhance their learning.”

Our faculty continue to pursue hands-on learning opportunities for students. For example, Dr. Chris Harris, an associate professor of communication, accompanied students to the prestigious Salzburg Academy for Media and Global Change in Salzburg, Austria. The three-week summer academy brought together undergraduates from colleges around the world to consider pressing issues related to media literacy. In her environmental science course, Dr. Jennifer Edmonds integrated a unit on urban farming, using the newly built NSC garden to enrich students’ understanding of food production and sustainability. Visual media students continue to gain experience writing, directing, and editing films, and one of our seniors won the grand prize for her High Sierra Film Festival submission. Four students worked with Dr. Zachary Woydziak on research that was published in the academic chemistry journal Synthetic Communications, while three LAS students won competitive National Science Foundation-EPSCoR grants to support their research with faculty. I am incredibly proud of these and the many other projects and experiences we provided our students in the past year to enhance their learning beyond the classroom.

The LAS faculty and staff are incredibly dedicated to NSC’s mission of transforming students’ lives by providing excellent learning environments.

Andy Kuniyuki, Ph.D. Dean, School of Liberal Arts & Sciences [ 2016] Nevada State College [17]

Alumni PROFILE Quick to say that Nevada State College (NSC) prepared him well for the doctorate degree in medicinal chemistry he’s now seeking,

Jacob Sorrentino’s story isn’t that of

a typical college student. When he began classes at NSC, it was with a promise to his parents to give it a two-year try; in his own mind, the plan was to find a well-paying job after that time, drop out of school, and provide his own living. Little did Jacob know the influence that Dr. Zachary Woydziak and organic chemistry would have on his life.

Discovering this field really energized Jacob, so much so

JACOB SORRENTINO

that as he progressed in the program, he became a selfdeclared “lab rat” and helped other students with their chemistry studies.

chrizznunu Gotta love these business classes #collegelife

In fact, his groundbreaking research and dedication led to being honored with an award by the American Chemistry Society as well as acceptance to one of the top five medicinal chemistry graduate programs in the United States at the University of Kansas, where he continues to expand upon his successes.

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Faculty SPOTLIGHT Why did you choose Nevada State College?

I chose NSC because of its commitment to teaching. We really do put teaching first.

What is the best thing about teaching at NSC? The best thing about teaching at NSC is the student interactions. Our students face plenty of challenges in learning the material, but they are motivated and hard-working. We don’t have a pampered student population.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by students who aren’t afraid to dive in and try difficult things. A positive attitude can truly take them places.

SERGE BALLIF, PH.D. Assistant Professor of Mathematics

LIBERAL ARTS

jessicalr702 I bring to you caffeine!

The one thing keeping me sane while studying for organic chemistry exams! #organicchemistry #molecule #caffeine

What’s on your nightstand/what are you reading or listening to?

I am re-reading The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. Best fantasy book ever!

Finally, knowing that NSC’s mascot is a scorpion, what would you do if you saw a real live scorpion?

When I come across a scorpion, I call my wife and kids and we get out the UV flashlight. I can’t pass up an opportunity to experience nature when it comes crawling along.

[ 2016] Nevada State College [19]

GROWING NSC is “We knew that this concept could be very useful to those studying both biology and/ or physical sciences such as chemistry, even if they don’t plan on a career in horticulture.”

– Dr. Gwen Sharp

When Nevada State College (NSC) applied for a STEM Workforce Challenge Grant, it was with the plan that the funds would be used to develop a horticultural science certificate program. According to Interim Provost Dr. Robin Cresiski, NSC pursued the grant because “there was significant faculty interest in combining the philosophy of sustainability with research interests in citrus health, soil microbiology, hydroponics, and food production. This certificate addresses those issues while also meeting a growing industry need in Southern Nevada.”

NSC officials were delighted when they learned the grant had been awarded in the spring of 2016. The $54,746 grant will fund curriculum and infrastructure, including an outdoor garden farm as well as a small greenhouse for the program, and some of this groundwork has already been laid.

“Nevada State College prides itself on experiential curriculum opportunities, and

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GREEN “growing interest” in horticulture science after many conversations with the Physical

“We quickly realized that out in the desert,

and Life Sciences department, it was

we face different challenges of pest control,”

agreed that this type of program would be

notes Sharp. “Where a general type of fence

welcomed,” says Dr. Gwen Sharp, associate

would work within a city, it turned out to not

dean of the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences.

be secure enough out here. Animals were

“We already had a faculty member, Dr.

getting in, and figuring out ways to deter them

Jennifer Edmonds, assistant professor of

turned into yet another learning experience!”

biology, who was conducting hydroponics research, so this fit into our offerings perfectly.

It’s a proven fact that it’s difficult to raise

Additionally, other disciplines on campus

plants in the extreme desert environment. This

offer courses that have relevance to the

certificate program will include research to

horticulture program.”

improve sustainability for desert gardens by studying how changes in various conditions

Sharp continues, “Literally, this is where the

can impact the health of plants. The grant

seed of the idea began. We knew that

covered the cost of an outdoor garden

this concept could be very useful to those

farm and a greenhouse where hydroponics

studying both biology and/or physical

experiments can be conducted. Both the

sciences such as chemistry, even if they don’t

garden and greenhouse will give students

plan on a career in horticulture.”

hands-on experience with indoor and outdoor agricultural systems specifically

With the funding secured, plans began in

adapted to the desert environment.

earnest. By June, a small vegetable garden had been planted just to the west of the

In order to ensure that the program’s

Liberal Arts & Sciences Building on campus.

curriculum meets the needs of Nevada’s

[ 2016] Nevada State College [21]

sustainable desert and hydroponics

phenomenal. “We realized that while the

agricultural sectors, forming partnerships with

certificate is aimed at preparing students

community stakeholders has been key. So

for future employment, there is also a lot of

far, representatives from Green Our Planet,

enthusiasm from people who care about

Garden Farms, and the Springs Preserve have

sustainability and local food issues, even if

committed to sitting on the advisory board.

they may not plan to pursue it as a career.”

Sharp says that when the program is fully

The proposal for the set of courses is currently

approved, students will be able to earn the

undergoing the curriculum approval process,

horticultural science certificate in one year.

with plans for the certificate program to be

The program will cover desert ecosystems,

available starting in the fall of 2017.

hydroponic systems, permaculture, and research on food production in arid climates.

“We’re thrilled to be able to provide this

As part of some courses, students will spend

unique learning opportunity for our students,

several hours per week doing research in

who will get hands-on experience and

the garden under faculty supervision. The

a chance to do independent research

certificate prepares students for jobs such

projects,” shares Sharp. “And employers

as garden, farm, or greenhouse managers;

will have a source of future employees who

produce inspectors; garden consultants; and

have training that prepares them to work in

hydroponics managers and salespeople.

Nevada’s ‘green industry,’ so the program also fills an economic need. Overall, it

Sharp was excited to note that the interest

benefits our campus and the wider Nevada

from the community and students when

community.”

they found out about the future offering was

“We’re thrilled to be able to provide this unique learning opportunity for our students, who will get hands-on experience and a chance to do independent research projects.”

– Dr. Gwen Sharp

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Growing in a garden near you: •

Cabbage (red & green)

•

Peas

•

Spinach

•

Broccoli

•

Lettuces (several types)

•

Green onions

•

Rainbow chard

•

Kale

•

Radishes (several types)

•

Arugula

•

Carrots

•

Beets

•

Turnips

•

Herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano, cilantro, parsley)

Students learn about the challenges of growing plants in the desert.

[ 2016] Nevada State College [23]

SPARKING Nevada State is part of the national effort to “The program’s goal is to expose a diverse cohort of students in summer undergraduate research experiences so that they develop skills and credentials for pursuing advanced degrees in STEM fields and eventually enter the biomedical workforce.”

– Aster Sigel

By now, you’re probably familiar with the

For the past four years, NSC’s INBRE program,

acronym STEM (Science, Technology,

which is funded by the National Institutes of

Engineering, Math). The concept of preparing

Health, has provided groups of diverse, and

students for these fields that are necessary for

often underrepresented, undergraduate

our future has been a hot topic for the past

students (including those who are first-

few years. One question that keeps coming

generation students and/or from low-income

up is how do we get more female and

populations) a paid summer experience,

minority students interested in these topics?

during which they complete eight to 10 weeks of research. As student Brandon

This objective has been a vital part of the

Walls says, “With the experience I’ve had as

mission of Nevada State College (NSC) since

an undergrad, I’ve realized that research

the beginning, and the college has made

IS something I want to do.” With a goal of

great strides in the STEM arena thus far. One

attending an M.D.-Ph.D. program, he’s recently

such innovative concept that is helping

been working on developing efficient methods

expose more students to STEM fields is the

of synthesizing fluorescent molecular probes

INBRE (IDeA Network of Biomedical Research

that can bind to DNA and RNA to be used for

Excellence) program. “The program’s goal

the detection of biological substances.

is to expose a diverse cohort of students in summer undergraduate research experiences

During this past summer, 12 young women

so that they develop skills and credentials for

participated in INBRE, receiving training in

pursuing advanced degrees in STEM fields and

research techniques and conducting their

eventually enter the biomedical workforce,”

own research alongside NSC’s scientists in a

says INBRE lab coordinator Aster Sigel.

wide range of fields, including microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry, and genetics.

[24] black [+] gold ANNUAL

STEM get more students involved in the sciences According to Sigel, “From day one, I work

by making myself visible and available to

alongside these women, supporting,

them, is important,” says Sigel. “For them to

encouraging, and training them. We discuss

see someone successful that they can identify

everything from laboratory safety to various

with, someone who looks like them, they gain

research techniques.”

the confidence they need to keep going. It can be a great reminder that they, too, can

Pre-nursing student Melissa Anselmo was

do it.” She continues, saying that the female

honored to be chosen as an INBRE summer

faculty who participate in INBRE serve multiple

program participant. As someone who never

roles: professors, role models, and mentors.

thought of herself as a “science person,” she is truly enjoying her research through NSC.

Sigel notes that the majority of the students

“My summer research was studying bacterial

who have participated in the INBRE summer

differentiation in contaminated ice cream

program continue their research projects

samples,” she notes. She explained that as part

beyond the 10-week summer session. “Their

of a three-member team, she went into the

experience in the INBRE program encourages

field and collected ice cream samples before

them to pursue post-baccalaureate degrees

returning to NSC’s lab to test them for different

and careers in STEM fields. This progress

types of bacteria. “Certain bacteria can do

would not have been possible without

more harm than others to small children and

the opportunities for summer research

older adults. It was interesting to take all the

experiences that INBRE provides,” she says.

different factors into consideration.”

“As a female and a minority in a field with little

For more information on the INBRE program, please visit nsc.edu/INBRE

diversity, I realize that helping these women,

[ 2016] Nevada State College [25]

NEAL ROSENBURG, PH.D., RN Dr. Neal Rosenburg earned an honors B.A. in French from Saint Louis University and a B.S. in nursing, an M.S. in nursing (educator), and a Ph.D. in nursing (research) from the University of Missouri. He participated as a TL1 predoctorate scholar at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Mo. with the Department of Infectious Diseases/AIDS Clinical Trial Unit and has an active research trajectory in Cameroon, West Africa. His research interests include maternal/ infant HIV awareness and prevention via maternal feeding options.

SCHOOL OF NUR [26] black [+] gold ANNUAL

Letter from the DEAN Welcome to Nevada State College and the School of Nursing!

The School of Nursing is a dynamic, innovative, and exciting place to learn and work. We are building a rich tradition in nursing education that is framed within the sacred work of Dr. Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring. This guiding framework is a catalyst for the creativity, rigor, and excellence found throughout the nursing curricula. The talented faculty and staff in the School of Nursing focus on providing a holistic experience to our students. This commitment drives the outstanding and intimate student experiences within our well-sought-after and competitive nursing programs. We are proud to align with the college’s mission of creating more student access to these exceptional nursing programs to the many interested students in the Southern Nevada community. Since January 2015, the School of Nursing has increased the number of enrollments by more than 50 percent while remaining anchored to our nursing roots of compassion, care, and service. This is noble work, and we are honored to share this with our hardworking and dedicated nursing students.

We are the only midtier baccalaureate-focused nursing program in the Nevada System of Higher Education. Our CCNE-accredited baccalaureate programs offer great flexibility in programming options: the traditional full-time track with entry points in fall and spring semesters, the full-time 15-month summer start/finish track, the part-time track with entry points in fall and spring semesters with course/clinical programming commitments Thursday through Saturday, and the RN to BSN track with entry points throughout the year for working, licensed registered nurses.

More than 1,000 students have graduated from the baccalaureate nursing program at Nevada State College, many of whom have chosen to remain right here in Southern Nevada.

A nursing shortage persists nationally, and Southern Nevada is no exception. Nevada State

NURSING

SING

“We are the only mid-tier, baccalaureatefocused nursing program in the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE).”

College affirms its commitment to addressing this concern by continuing to explore additional growth opportunities and programming options to better meet the needs of our students and their busy lives.

I welcome you to come visit; spend some time with us at the School of Nursing. We would be honored to share our story of success with you.

Kind regards,

Neal Rosenburg, Ph.D., RN Dean, School of Nursing [ 2016] Nevada State College [27]

Alumni PROFILE Doreen Oberes entered the nursing program to fulfill her mother’s dream of becoming a nurse. At the time, she believed that whatever made her mother happy would also make her happy. During the first two semesters of the nursing program, Doreen learned new skills and had clinical experiences that allowed her to refine those skills. Halfway through her degree program, she was diagnosed with discoid lupus erythematosus, and three months later, with thyroid carcinoma. During her own medical treatment, she realized what a fulfilling career nursing was and knew it was her own

DOREEN OBERES

abby_mangubat SUPER STOKED TO SAY THAT I’VE BEEN ACCEPTED INTO NSC’S FULL TIME NURSING PROGRAM!!!! I’ll be starting Spring 2017. I can’t believe it’s finally happening!

[28] black [+] gold ANNUAL

career decision, not her mother’s. Although her treatment continues, Doreen has demonstrated her caring and compassionate nature to her own patients.

Faculty SPOTLIGHT Why did you choose Nevada State College?

Nevada State College was an easy choice for me for three reasons. First, it’s the type of educational institution that expects me to have teaching as my number one priority as a professor, rather than research. Second, being a minority myself, the diverse student population at NSC is very appealing to me. I want to guide, inspire, and ensure that our minority students are succeeding and fulfilling their academic dreams. Lastly, I knew this was the place for me when I learned that Jean Watson’s caring science theoretical framework was the foundation of the nursing program.

What is the best thing about teaching at NSC? The Nevada State College School of Nursing has a personalized commitment to its students. There is much

CECELIA FERNAN, ED.D., MSN, RNC-MNN Assistant Professor

thought and planning done to ensure that their needs are met the best we can. I am very proud to be part of a culture that I can describe as “student-centric” in many ways.

What inspires you?

People who love to learn, lead, and take on challenges inspire me. Because my Benedictine University professors made such a profound impact on me as a person and as an educator, I would like to do the same for my students.

NURSING

penguin_in_las_vegas Last day of clinical at Valley Hospital #clinicalgroup #nscnursing #bsn

What’s on your nightstand/what are you reading or listening to?

I listen to my iPod/portable speaker constantly. I recently finished reading Gladwell’s Outliers: The Story of Success and The Tipping Point.

Finally, knowing that NSC’s mascot is a scorpion, what would you do if you saw a real live scorpion?

I probably would run as fast as I can.

[ 2016] Nevada State College [29]

CARING NSC’s School of Nursing continues its phenomenal growth, “While we knew we were poised for phenomenal growth, we had no idea of the full extent we would experience.”

– Dr. Neal Rosenburg

When Nevada State College (NSC) School of Nursing (SoN) officials went before the Nevada State Board of Nursing in September 2014, it was with the overall goal of expanding the program. At the time, plans included adding more students and updating the curriculum. Little did they know just how much growth and vital community partnerships this would actually amount to over the next few years.

“While we knew we were poised for phenomenal growth, we had no idea of the full extent we would experience,” says Dr. Neal Rosenburg, dean of the School of Nursing. “We were aware that the acceptance of this initiative would enable the SoN to grow in the manner necessary, but it has also truly enabled us to share our expertise and qualified students with the local health community at large.”

With Rosenburg leading the effort, and after a unanimous vote by the board,

[30] black [+] gold ANNUAL

COUNTS utilizing the Caring Science Model NSC’s request was approved. In 2014,

and assistant professor in the SoN. She

the dean announced that the nursing

notes the following: 1) quality instruction

school’s growth would be incremental

and education, as supported by the

and that by the spring 2015 semester,

National Council Licensure Examination

enrollment would increase for both part-

(NCLEX) results; 2) more admission slots

time and regular track students, doubling

opening up, thus increasing a student’s

the numbers at that time.

likelihood of getting into the program; 3) NSC’s SoN offering the most cost-effective

Rosenburg explains that this action

local Bachelor of Science in nursing

was taken to meet student needs. “We

degree; and 4) the student experience

have a waitlist of qualified applicants,”

provided by NSC’s quality faculty.

he says. “With these changes, we will accommodate more qualified students

Nevada State College works hard to

than ever — and it’s imperative, given

ensure that there are plenty of well-

the local nursing shortage.” It was also

prepared nurses in the local market.

perfect timing in that the new buildings

Many of the college’s nursing graduates

on NSC’s campus opened just before the

stay in Southern Nevada to work, helping

fall 2015 semester.

offset the shortage of qualified nursing professionals.

Looking at the numbers, one can see that NSC’s nursing program has more than

According to Llasus, “Current data

doubled in size over the past few years.

available on nursing workforce rankings

“We believe it’s a result of a variety of

reports that the state of Nevada ranks 51st

things,” says Dr. Ludy Llasus, associate dean

for registered nurses on active licensees per

[ 2016] Nevada State College [31]

100,000 population.” She also notes that

In 2015, Centennial Hills Hospital Medical

out of the health care occupation postings

Center, part of the Valley Health System,

for the state of Nevada for 2015, registered

instituted a program with four cohorts of

nurses (RNs) were ranked No. 1 (a total

NSC students. This group began work on

of 10,640 RN job postings for 2015 and a

the orthopedic unit after being selected

projected 12,770 postings for 2016).

by the hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer John

Coldsmith. During spring 2016, Centennial

Relationships with the medical community

Hills’ eighth-floor medical-surgical unit also

have been integral to the school’s success.

transitioned into a Caring Science Unit. In

The BSN Clinical Partnership Director of

fall 2016, the hospital’s Women’s Services

Nursing, Ruby Wertz, explains that some

area and the IMC/ICU units became

partnerships benefit both NSC and the

additional Caring Science Units, where NSC

Southern Nevada community. For those

students are learning from trained care

not familiar, NSC prides itself on practicing

coaches (selected staff nurses).

Jean Watson’s Caring Science philosophy of nursing, a set of practices that enable

“Our ongoing mission is to provide a

clinical nurses and academic programs

caring clinical environment that helps our

throughout the world to use Watson’s

nursing students transition from college to

published works on the philosophy and

new graduate nurses,” says Coldsmith. “It

theory of human caring and the art and

teaches them important clinical skills, along

science of caring in nursing. NSC now

with how to show caring, compassion,

shares this philosophy with the Southern

and empathy. All staff need to be able to

Nevada community.

genuinely connect with our patients and families. This builds trust with our patients

“Our ongoing mission is to provide a caring clinical environment which helps our nursing students transition from college to new graduate nurse.”

– John Coldsmith

[32] black [+] gold ANNUAL

who aren’t feeling well or may be receiving

continues to develop and students progress

bad news.”

in the nursing program.

He continues, saying, “This program explains

It’s obvious that the SoN leads the

the ‘care’ necessary in ‘health care.’”

charge when it comes to providing a comprehensive nursing educational

Wertz notes that a celebration took place

experience.

for the program’s one-year anniversary at Centennial Hills Hospital on August 29, with Dr. Jean Watson in attendance. The celebration included the care coaches and students from each of the three cohorts of the Caring Science Units.

For more information about the programs within the School of Nursing, please visit nsc.edu/nursing. *OSI Analysis of Burning Glass/Labor Insights data (2016) from Current and Projected

Because of the success of these programs,

Health Workforce Supply and Demand

Wertz shares that Mountain View Hospital

in Nevada by John Packham, Office of

and Valley Hospital will institute Caring

Statewide Initiatives, University of Nevada

Science Units in 2017, as will the new

School of Medicine.

Henderson Hospital. “Beginning in May 2017, eight students will be selected by Henderson Hospital’s Chief of Nursing Tina Coker to work on the Adult Health Unit,” she says.

Other units will become Caring Science Units as the academic-practice partnership

[ 2016] Nevada State College [33]

RICHARD YAO, PH.D. Very familiar with Nevada State after teaching on campus for ten years, Dr. Richard Yao now serves as NSC’s dean of students, where he develops and oversees all aspects of student life. He earned both his bachelor’s degree (psychology) and master’s degree (clinical psychology) from Eastern Illinois University, before completing a Ph.D. (clinical psychology) at Fielding Graduate University. Dr. Yao is a State of Nevada licensed clinical psychologist.

STUDENT [34] black [+] gold ANNUAL

Letter from the DEAN My overarching goal as dean of students is to develop and guide programs that facilitate students’ academic, professional, and psychosocial development. As such, we have focused our efforts on a full integration of academic and student affairs programs to ensure student success. In addition, we have worked with our student leaders to ensure that student life initiatives are congruent with the academic mission of the college.

Perhaps most importantly, our programs strive to demonstrate the impact of their services on student retention. We know that there is a significant correlation between students who utilize our Academic Advising and Academic Success Centers and increased student retention.

Students who utilize these programs have a higher retention percentage when compared with students who do not. This impact is true for all students, but it is particularly valuable for students who enter NSC with a high school GPA below 3.0. As such, we are expanding these programs to increase student utilization and outreach. We recently hired a new director, Cristina Caputo, for the Academic Success Center (ASC). She is collaborating with others to develop an embedded peer support program through the ASC. We are also increasing our staff in the Academic Advising Center to meet student demand and have added a peermentoring program for first-year students.

Our Disability Resource Center (DRC) has made tremendous strides under the leadership of Sandi Patton, who has assumed a statewide leadership role and founded the Nevada Chapter of the Association on Higher Education and Disabilities (AHEAD).

Our Nevada State Student Alliance, under the leadership of President Desiree DeCosta, has made a conscious effort to collaborate with academic programs and college leadership to improve student success. They worked with the Office of the Provost to expand our Course Assistant program, provided support to the chemistry faculty in their pursuit of a nuclear magnetic resonance machine, supported our undergraduate research symposium, and supported various student clubs in attending conferences and competitions.

Moving forward, all our programs are developing student learning objectives and hope to start measuring outcomes this spring.

Richard Yao, Ph.D. Dean of Students

STUDENT LIFE

LIFE

“We know that there is a significant correlation between students who utilize our Academic Advising and Academic Success Centers and increased student retention.�

[ 2016] Nevada State College [35]

Never a dull moment for Phil LaMotte In his position as Nevada State College’s

So I did always have it in the back of my

(NSC) student activities manager, Phil

mind that I would like to come back and

LaMotte enjoys getting to know the student

give to the community that gave me so

body and the types of activities they’d like

much. When I came for my interview and

to have available. In addition to overseeing

saw the two new buildings, I got an energy

business operations for the Nevada State

that I can’t really explain.”

Student Alliance (NSSA), he also serves in an advisory role for those participating in NSSA

LaMotte has a unique background that

and acts as a resource for the various clubs

more than qualifies him for this position. He

and organizations.

served with AmeriCorps in Philadelphia, working with the education-based nonprofit

“The key principle I live by is service to a cause greater than self.”

– Phil LaMotte

“When I accepted this position, I was well

organization City Year before returning to

aware of NSSA’s structure, although the

NSC to complete his bachelor’s degree in

culture and dynamics have changed.”

psychology in 2013. After that, he completed

This is because he was involved in NSSA

resource development for the Wilmington

as a student. “So I really tried to make a

Area Rebuilding Ministry for a year before

deliberate effort to be an observer and

participating in a fellowship in the New

learn the intricacies and new trajectory.”

Hanover County Strategy and Policy

He shares that NSSA is currently revising its

Department. In December 2015, he obtained

constitution and bylaws and is creating its first

a Master of Public Administration from the

strategic plan. Part of his position includes

University of North Carolina, Wilmington.

ensuring that NSSA complies with Nevada Open Meeting Law and keeping track of the

He wears many hats due to his varied

organization’s votes and finances.

responsibilities. “I think that my previous work experience taught me the ability

[36] black [+] gold ANNUAL

According to LaMotte, “The key principle

to be flexible in daily activities in order to

I live by is service to a cause greater than

focus on the next deadline,” comments

self. Nevada State College gave me a

LaMotte. “Although none of my previous

second chance to live up to my potential.

work experience taught me exactly how to

complete the tasks that are most relevant to my job now, my experience and education taught me how to problem-solve and think

2016–17 NSSA Executive Board Desiree DeCosta, President

critically so that I can address any situation in an efficient, effective manner.”

Along with his recent supervision of student workers at the new fitness center on campus, LaMotte has been busy working with a group of students to pursue the Congressional Award.

By helping them glean leadership qualities through personal development, he’s set a goal to have 20 students achieve the honor over the next four years. This national award

Heather Phelps, Vice President Abby Mangubat, Secretary Moee Turbin, Chair of Public Relations AJ Wagner, Chair of Capital Improvement Lindsay Newark, Chair of Programming Daniel Chapman, Chair of Budget and Finance

program involves setting goals in four program areas: Volunteer Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/ Exploration. Recently, the NSC group performed community service by volunteering at the Nevada State Veterans Home in Boulder City with the Veterans Olympics. He plans to

2016–17 NSSA Senators From the 0–29 hour group Aldo Ayala, La’Wanda Bass, Taylor Gangi, Doug Mitchell

offer at least one volunteer activity per month starting in the spring.

From the 30-59 credit hour group Linh Truoung, Marco Lopez, Tim Christenson, Alicia Contreras

“I’m most excited about NSC’s future because of the opportunity to continue growing while finding ways to maintain the culture that makes our campus so great.”

From the 60-89 credit hour group Katie Jensen, Christina Barron, Luis Montanez, Rafael Salazar From the 90 and above credit hour group Nanika Moseley (3 vacancies)

STUDENT LIFE [ 2016] Nevada State College [37]

PERSISTENT Recent HSI designation continues “Even in the 1980s, the trend in the Clark County School District’s (CCSD) student population was minority majority.”

– Dr. Edith Fernández

One of the founding priorities of Nevada State College (NSC) was to best serve the needs of Southern Nevada’s diverse local population. Discussions about this important topic took place before NSC even existed.

After the college became a reality, these conversations continued throughout campus and the community at large.

“Even in the 1980s, the trend in the Clark County School District’s student population was minority majority,” explains Dr. Edith Fernández, NSC’s associate vice president of Community Engagement & Diversity Initiatives. “So we knew that it was only a matter of time before this wave would hit higher education.”

With this in mind, steps were taken early on to ensure that the collegiate experience provided by NSC considered both the necessary resources and the support needs of Southern Nevada’s students. Locally, Latinos are one of the most prominent

[38] black [+] gold ANNUAL

PROGRESS advancement of multiculturalism on NSC’s campus minority populations, so their culture’s needs

student success. One of the task force’s

were taken into consideration, as were

achievements was connecting NSC officials

those of other local minority groups. With

with the external Latino community and

the awareness that this knowledge could

pursuing the path to becoming an HSI.

improve retention and graduation rates, unique ways were employed to keep NSC

One early step along NSC’s HSI pathway

competitive, including building appropriate

was when the college was designated as

student support services and attracting

a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) as well

diverse faculty.

as an Emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution.

At that time, NSC President Bart Patterson

In 2012, NSC formed its Diversity & Inclusion

announced that these initiatives would

Task Force to think critically about a wide

have a direct impact on the quality of life

range of diversity and inclusion-related issues

for all students, making for strong graduates

across campus. Its purpose was to review,

who will be ready to become the “next

examine, and support NSC programs, policies,

generation of Nevada leaders.”

and procedures that impact experiences of the student body and staff. By identifying

According to the U.S. Department of

strategies and making recommendations,

Education (DOE), the HSI designation refers

the goal was a coordinated communitywide

to an institution participating in a federal

approach to diversity and inclusion. Sharing

program designed to assist colleges or

their varied perspectives, members of the

universities in the United States that attempt

group developed a five-year Hispanic-Serving

to assist first-generation, low-income

Institution (HSI) plan, creating potential

Hispanic students. Eligible institutions must

work streams that would lead to Latino

maintain 25 percent or higher Latino student

[ 2016] Nevada State College [39]

“It’s so important to me to serve the community we’re in and that becomes more true each year.”

– Dr. Shantal Marshall

enrollment for two consecutive years. Once

students and their families go through. As

an institution has received this designation,

a Latina and the first in her family to attend

it becomes eligible to apply for various

college, her subsequent research has studied

grant opportunities, including the areas

the way that individuals construct their

of educational and research equipment,

concept of race through their consumption

curriculum development, enhancement of

of popular culture and how it affects their

community outreach, faculty development,

understanding of identity, inequality, and

renovation and campus facilities, student

stereotypes. “When I interviewed at NSC, I was

support services, and student scholarships and

really excited to learn of the pursuit of the HSI

grants. Funding prospects made available

designation,” she comments. “It’s so important

to HSIs through the DOE are intended for

to me to serve the community we’re in, and

institutionally based educational opportunities

that becomes more true each year.”

that lead to academic success for Latino and low-income students.

Focusing on how environments affect students is one of Marshall’s passions. “If

With this HSI goal in mind, one of the first

we can make students feel safe within their

activities the task force participated in was

identities, we can really help them reach

the coordination of a workshop and luncheon

their potential. Traditional colleges were built

with representatives from NSC and the Las

many years ago and for a different type

Vegas Latin Chamber of Commerce (LCC) in

of student,” she notes. “If you can build a

August 2012. The LCC committed to working

college for today’s needs instead of try to

with NSC to create a strategic plan leading

change one that has existed for a long time,

toward the HSI recognition.

you might be able to come up with models that other schools will try to emulate. It’s not

Fernández points out that the needs of

just the HSI designation that we’re after; it’s

Latino students and the obstacles they

that combined with the development of a

often face are a big topic when it comes to

new kind of campus.”

helping them get through higher education.

“We need to think about the students and

Echoing Fernández’s comments about families

their families holistically,” she notes. “When

not always understanding higher education,

we talk about retaining a student, we really

she recalls how her family missed her and

need to talk about retaining an entire family,

couldn’t comprehend why she would want

not just the individual. Many of these students

to go away to school. As an undergraduate

are the first to attend college, and they may

at the University of California, Los Angeles,

face negative feedback from their families

Marshall became involved with an academic

because they aren’t working ‘hard’ in the

advancement program on campus, which

traditional sense that they have known. It’s

ended up serving as her “safe place”

very important to embrace and understand

during those years. “Having that community

these situations.” Fernández explains

of students who were really similar to me

that NSC is also working with a variety of

helped immensely. I feel like I flourished as an

community organizations to become a

undergrad because of that connection.”

trusted resource for local families.

Fernández shares that another related

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Dr. Shantal Marshall, assistant professor of

area where NSC leads in this aspect is

psychology, uniquely understands what these

that it’s currently the only Nevada higher-

education institution to offer scholarships to undocumented students. Through TheDream.US project, DREAMers (DREAM stands for Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) are eligible for scholarships that lead to career-ready degrees. She notes that Nevada has one of the highest populations of undocumented people in the nation. This fact obviously affects Latinos, although not all who are undocumented are of that culture.

This spring, after nearly four years of working toward the HSI designation, it was announced that NSC had completed the first step: The college’s Latino population had reached 25 percent of total enrollment.

To celebrate the milestone, NSC hosted a luncheon for the LCC in April at its newly expanded campus. Featured speakers included Patterson, Latin Chamber of Commerce President Peter Guzman, and Glenn Christenson, former chief financial officer of Station Casinos and past chair of the Nevada State College Foundation.

According to Patterson, “We have always worked to serve a diverse student population that is reflective of our community. It is important for the economic development of our region for the growing Latino population to be successful in higher education. Working toward this designation is a huge step in advancing this mission to benefit our students and the community at large.”

To sum it up, Fernández asks, “How can we change the culture and teach, serve, and embrace our students and their families differently? We are doing our best to help, as this is our state’s future.”

To learn more about HSIs, please visit http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/ idues/hsidivision.html

Students from a variety of backgrounds are finding their collegiate home at NSC.

[ 2016] Nevada State College [41]

RAISING NSC’s comprehensive campaign exceeds goal, “I am proud of what the Foundation has accomplished in the last three years, and I am looking forward to a further impact of financial initiatives in the next two years.”

– David Grant

Nevada State College’s (NSC) Comprehensive Campaign exceeded its $10 million fundraising goal by more than $7 million. The efforts were led by Nevada State College Foundation (NSCF) Campaign Chair and former Board Chair Glenn Christenson, with additional coordination and assistance from members of the NSCF, NSC leadership, community leadership, and Diane Carlson, CEO of 1-2-1 Philanthropic Services.

As Christenson told the Las Vegas ReviewJournal in June 2016, “It’s an endorsement of the work that’s being done at Nevada State. I think the success of the campaign is also a reflection that our economy is coming back. People feel more comfortable making donations, and they like the things that we’re doing at Nevada State.”

“Our Nevada State College Foundation board members are the engine powering our fundraising efforts, and they aren’t slowing

[42] black [+] gold ANNUAL

THE BAR raising record amount down anytime soon,” said NSC President

financial initiatives in the next two years,” says

Bart Patterson in the June 29 issue of the

David Grant, current board chair of the NSCF.

Las Vegas Sun. “Already, the foundation is making a huge direct impact on our

Additionally, the Office of Institutional

community by providing a traditionally

Advancement (OIA) is in the beginning

underserved population with an exceptional

stages of financial initiatives focused on a

education on a beautiful campus.”

new building for the School of Education, supporting new and existing academic

Funds from the Comprehensive Campaign

programs, and growing endowed

will be utilized to assist in the financing of

scholarships. The OIA also oversees the

two recently added buildings on campus —

development of an alumni board and the

the Rogers Student Center and the Nursing,

continuation and expansion of the Arts &

Science & Education Building — and of

Culture Advisory Council and the new Friends

student scholarships and the expansion of

of the Library organization.

academic programs.

Recently, the NSCF launched its “50 for $2M” scholarship campaign. Announced and ratified at its May 2016 board meeting, this initiative has already raised more than $700,000 in cash and pledges to date.

“I am proud of what the foundation has accomplished in the last three years, and I am looking forward to a further impact of

For more information about giving current and future gifts to Nevada State College, please contact Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Dr. Russell Raker, at Russell.Raker@nsc.edu or other members of the OIA staff.

Office: (702) 992-2377 | Fax: (702) 992-2351

[ 2016] Nevada State College [43]

2016 ALUMNI SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

Ashley Hewitt

Tobias Torres

Ainsley Campbell

Christin Hodges

Brian Trenholm

Vicky Carreno

Robyn Holmes

Melissa Waite

Valerie Cawley

Jewell Hopwood

Angelina Welch

Connie Cheng

Alexandria Alo

Stacey Inouye

Nicole Whaley

Jennifer Cherry

Cara Andersen

Megan Jones

Kelly Wolthers

Linda Cirillo

Michele Arnold

Alexandria Kinney

Brittany Clark

Kristen Arsenault

Allysa Kinzler

Breanna Ballard Barbara Bassett

Samantha Lohmeyer

Alexia Beeler

Lindsay Mann

William Bell

Justin Mastrangioli

SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS & SCIENCES

Travis Coles

Daniel-marie Lebel

Karen Berrios

Mysha Mcclain

Ariel Borgman

Amanda Jean Mckelvey

Ashley Boulet

Kristina Mehaffey

Marja Brooks

Zoey Moreau

Katheryn Brown

Natalie Ogan

Paige Buchanan

Nancy Olson

Mariah Busch

Jennifer Palmer

Stephanie Castellano

John Pattillo

Tara Clark

Gabrielle Rabb

Aaron Clay

Alexandra Reza

Laura Comstock

Tisha Rice

Taylor Conley

Cassandra Romero

Kendra Cope

Shari Ross

Bobbi Curry

Victoria Sanchez

Tracey D’angelo

Briana Sand

Denise Davis

Alicia Sechrist

Courtney Donnelly

Shayna Segal

Christine Dye

Neoscary Sequeira

Jennifer Estes

Andrew Shealy

Tammy Fogg

Jesse Smith

Shelby Gebhart

Corrina Spidell

Diana Godinez

Raquel Stout

William Hall

Taylor Templeton

June Hamel

Rebecca Thompson

[44] black [+] gold ANNUAL

Julianne Adams Ariadne Alagar Rocky Alagar Rachel Anderson Elaine Arandia-Kellerman Kristen Arsenault Fatimah Askia Nicole Barabas Danette Barber Alezon Anne Bautista Christopher Bautista Christina Bemiller Shannon Bendrick Jacqueline Bermudez Brandi Blue Johnathan Box Kristi Bradley Andrea Bravo Matthew Brew Natalia Brooks Ashley Brown Jasmin Brownell Angela Cajo

Quinetta Crawford Camille Cruz Sergio Cruz-Cardenas John Culliver Robert Dawidowicz Christina Delanty Arben Dema Maria Dominguez George Donelson Erin Doyle Brandon Durham Brianna Egan Carol Eklund Bonnie Erbe Brenda Favela-Belmonte Donna Feliz-Barrows Katie Fese Mary Ann Foreman Samantha Foreman Floyd Freiburger Rebecca Fung Katherin Gabriel Angela Garbarino Juana Garcia Eddy Garrido Robyn-lea Gentile Angel Gomez Jodi Gonz

LISTINGS Silvia Gonzalez

Christie Lee

Nierada Nititadakul

Kirsten Schwarz

Christina Gordon

Cindy Lee

Jazmin Nonato

Nicole Scollard

Shaylah Gray

Marissa Leininger

Deborah Nunes

Shayna Segal

Stephanie Grossman

Gary Lenkeit

Joshua Oppong

Krista Segura

Monsherad Gutierrez

Jessica Lilley

Edward Ordonez

Lynnette Seimears

Steve Haas

Lisa Linnell

Veronica Paglio

Justin Semana

Paige Hall

Kristin Little

Nathaniel Pallasigue

Samantha Shaffer

Maria Harbalieva

Yolonda Littleton

Summer Parker

Margaret Sharp

Daniel Hart

Yolanda Lizardo

Domitilo Peralta

Andrew Shealy

Jean-Pierre HasenmayerTheodorou

Jeffrey Lomprey

Rajeev Peterson

Tiffany Shorter

Leanna Lomprey

Cristina Petty

Elizabeth Simon

Sierra Lomprey

Zandra Polard

Ginnea Smith

Ysibel Ludwig

Jessica Prentice

Preeti Sodha

Monnie Luna

Karen Purdy

Jennifer Solano

Mariela Maltez

Michael Rabb-Brumfield

Christine Soler

Tamara Marino

Karmjit Raju

Uilani Sonoda

Jessica Martinez

Noyan Ramazani

Kayla Soriano

Gabrielle Mccormick

Tricia Ramos

Jacob Sorrentino

Ashlie Mceuen

Michele Rey-Morales

Hannah St. John

Alexandria Mcginty

Jennifer Rider

Ronald Stanfield

Destiny Mckeever

Joel Rios

Andrew Stewart

Ivan Mejia

Jennifer Rivas

Richard Summers

Jorge Mejia Mejia

Rosenda Rivas

Brenda Swaim

Alejandra Melchor-Morales

Joshua Rivera

Tito Tatis Talero

Jeffrey Metcalf

Laura Robles

Mary Rozelle Tolentino

Diana Miranda

Dymonde Rodgers

Adriana Torres

Brenton Montgomery

Kari Rodowick-Sandrini

Johnathon Toston

Nicole Moore

Monica Rosquist-Schiffman

Shannon Vozar

Zoey Moreau

Nicolas Rubel

Cassandra Wagner

Matthew Morgan

Emily Ruddell

Chad Warner

Jasmin Mulready

Alexandra Saenz

Emily Waters

Aura Munguia

Hossai Safar

Amanda Wellman

Donna Nellis

Elizabeth Sanchez-Mariscal

Nicole Whaley

Alyse Nelsen

Marshawna Sanford

Valorie White-lystrup

Kristin Nelson

Neil Sarahs

Shante Willis

Joshua Neri

Farrah Schrader

Vyshika Willis

Talisha Haywood Brendon Heinrich Tiffany Henderson Andrew Holbert sheneka holder Denise Hooks Deidra Hufnagle Alicia Hunter Velmin Husic Heather Ibarra Jessica Jersey Amy Jivan Alvin Jules Kevin Kanowitz Tyler Kaplan Kaitlin Kasmier Greg King Bethany Kline Stephanie Koehler Gary Kofford Sarah Konsten Kristen Lalli Amy Lamouroux Justin Landerman Alisia Leavitt

[ 2016] Nevada State College [45]

Kyle Wilson

Jeanne Cosgrove

Mariya Kolibarova

Mariana Peterson

Lawrence Wolak

Melanie Crowley

Judith Kuria

Preston Peterson

Wendy Wood

Kevin Dangler

Katharine Kussell

Katherine Pfeifer

Chelsea Woodall

Kenia Delatorre

Kelsey Landis

Brian Phares

Mary Woods

Megan Dempsey

Norman Vincent Lapitan

Rachel Pike

Halimah Wooten

Jennifer Dove

Maggie Laurencell

Myacinth Pineda

Cassandra Zavala

Melanie Elefante

Rhiannon Laviolette

Jennifer Piscitelli

Alexander Zemla

Mary Elez

April Leblanc

Agripina Polushkin

Susana Zepeda

Edgar Escobar

Peggy Lee

Robyn Preston

Caitlan Feil

Jacqueline Likert

Sherry Pulido

SCHOOL OF NURSING

Preston Felts

Crystal Lippert

Diana Rodriguez

Emily Fitzgerald

Rosemarie Lizardo

Christina Sabado

Lidia Free

Edelaine Lucas

Samantha Sanford

Melinda Galacgac

Stephen Luong

Megan Saum

Kritchadaphorn Acosta

Nicole Garland

Eden Machado

Nicole Semana

Maria Gina Agnir

Alena Gething

Erin Madsen

Maria Senda

Rafilya Ali

Jessica Gnadt

Marlo Jane Mangalino

Rilwan Shoyombo

Carla Alvarado

Nancy Gonzalez

Kristina Martins

Celeste Simmons

Ulises Arias

Rosie Gonzalez

Laurie Mccolley

Alexis Stevens

Armando Avelar

Danielle Graziano

Kenneth Meier

Candace Stevenson

Jennifer Baca

Megan Gregory

Milen Minchev

Harry Tate

Kristen Bagg

Asher Griffith

Lisa Moss

Rachel Tielemans

Erica Bean

Tessa Haas

Mayra Moya

Jennifer Tingle

Betty Beck

Lesly Hansen

Alicia Mujica

Leah Torvinen

Nayeli Bejarano

Debbie Harper

Angelica Musumeci

Mindy Triola

Savannah Benyo

Felicia Haywood

Jeffrey Nelson

Ambrosia Turner

Crystal Brown

Feryal Hemmati

Jude Nkwanga

Cherilyn Visarra

Yamila Cardone

Chelsee Henderson

Victoria Novack

Blair Vivirito

Katelyn Carnahan

Jenjira Hendrix

Doreen Mae Oberes

Angelica Vo

Jennifer Carvalho

Jill Holsclaw

Gina Olson

Hanh Vu

Daizy Chan-Kumpa

Julie Hussey

Brittany O’Neill

Autumn Wake

Tetyana Chernyuk

Jenny Johnson

Tiffany O’Neill

Heather Wickware

Patti Chervitz

Samantha Jones

Kenneth O’Rourke

Bryan Wiederholt

Linda Cirillo

Lina Juzenaite

Alyssa Palmer

Amy Wisniewski

Jacqueline Colli

Monika King

Azita Pascoe

Marta Womble

Lorna Cosenza

Hannah Klug

Anquanita Peterson

Shauna Wood

The NSC Office of Institutional Research defines the Class of 2016 as “graduates with degrees conferred in the Summer 2015, Fall 2015, and Spring 2016 semesters.” To provide updates to the Office of Alumni Relations, please call (702) 992-2370.

[46] black [+] gold ANNUAL

Nevada State College FOUNDATION TRUSTEES* ALFREDO ALONSO Principal Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie, LLP Reno, NV MIKE BENJAMIN CEO & President Benjamin Enterprises Reno, NV MICHAEL BOLOGNINI Market Vice President Cox Communications, Inc. Las Vegas, NV TIM BROOKS Owner/General Manager Emerald Island Casino Henderson, NV HANNAH BROWN Civic & Community Leader Las Vegas, NV JEFFREY BURR President & Attorney at Law Jeffrey Burr Ltd. Henderson, NV DANE CARTER President/Building Division Sletten Construction of Nevada, Inc. Las Vegas, NV & Great Falls, MT GLENN CHRISTENSON Managing Director Velstand Investments, LLC Henderson, NV SHERRY COLQUITT Civic & Community Leader Las Vegas, NV & Durango, CO TERESSA CONLEY President & CEO, Rose de Lima Campus Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican Las Vegas, NV THOMAS CORDY Retired Business Executive Las Vegas, NV & Atlanta, GA

DANIEL GERETY Founder & Managing Partner, Gerety & Associates, Certified Public Accountants Las Vegas, NV JAMES GIBSON The Former Mayor of Henderson, NV Attorney, Civic & Community Leader Henderson, NV JOHN GIBSON Retired Business Executive Civic & Community Leader Henderson, NV DAVID GRANT Attorney at Law Grant Morris Dodds Attorneys Las Vegas, NV THE HONORABLE ANDY HAFEN Mayor, City of Henderson Henderson, NV ELAINE HODGSON President & CEO Incredible Technologies, Inc Las Vegas, NV & Arlington Heights, IL DALINE JANUIK Executive Vice President & Regional President, Bank of Nevada Henderson, NV MARILYN JENTZEN Principal, Innovative Impact Consulting & Education Advocate Las Vegas, NV ALISON KASNER Educator, Civic & Community Leader Henderson, NV

BART PATTERSON President, Nevada State College Henderson, NV RICHARD PERKINS President, The Perkins Company Las Vegas, NV SCOTT RAYMER Chief Executive Officer, CRB Auto Las Vegas, NV & Orange County, CA CHARLES RINEHART Retired Bank Executive Civic & Community Leader Las Vegas, NV & Orange Country, CA TONY SANCHEZ, III Senior Vice President/Government & Community Strategy, NV Energy Las Vegas, NV DAN SHAW President, Shaw Jones Partners, LLC, & Integra Financial Services Las Vegas, NV & Logan, UT DAN STEWART Vice President for Development Gardner Company of Nevada Las Vegas, NV & Salt Lake City, UT WILLIAM WORTMAN Principal Cannery Casino Resorts, LLC Las Vegas, NV LIAISON/RECORDER J. RUSSELL RAKER, III, PhD, ACFRE Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement Nevada State College & Foundation Henderson, NV

WILLIAM “BILL” MARTIN Retired Bank Executive Civic & Community Leader Henderson, NV KRISTI OVERGAARD Executive Vice President of Awesomeness Supernap/Switch Las Vegas, NV

For more information on the NSC Foundation, please visit nsc.edu/giving *Trustees listed in alphabetical order

[ 2016] Nevada State College [47]

Welcome NEW FACULTY AND STAFF Nevada State College is excited to welcome several new faculty and staff members to the NSC family.

This list reflects faculty and staff members hired between December 2015 and November 2016.

FACULTY

Cristina Caputo

Paige Hall

Dr. Susan Bonnell

Director of Academic Success Center

Student Program Coordinator

Michael Carpenter

Phil Lamotte

Personnel Technician I

Student Activities Manager

Leilani Carreno

Munyiga Lumumba

Director of Nepantla Program

Assistant Director of TRIO Upward Bound

Renee Clebanoff

Erin Matthews

Administrative Assistant III

Recruiter

Kristina Collins

Vincent Nava

Student Program Coordinator

Recruiter

Darlene Conwell

Briana Pitkin

Student Program Coordinator

Recruiter

Camille Cruz

Angela Poole

Accounting Assistant I

Budget Analyst

Kristina Dearing

Cynthia Rispante

Administrative Assistant IV

Senior Accountant

Johnny Dinh

Robin Smith

Library Technician I

Director of TRIO-SSS

Damon Ford

Danelle Sundell

Maintenance Repair Worker II

Administrative Assistant II

Andreana Franco

Marcos Uribe

Advisor/Counselor

IT Technician IV

Angela Freeman

DebraAnn Valdez

Advisor/Counselor

Administrative Assistant III

J. Alvarez

Dr. Christopher Garrett

Nicole Wesley

Maintenance Repair Worker II

Director of the Center for Teaching &

Director of Career Services

Associate Professor of Nursing Zarah Borines Lecturer of Nursing Donna Enrico Lecturer of Nursing Dr. Cecelia Fernan Assistant Professor of Nursing Darlene Haff Lecturer of Sociology Maya Hobscheid Librarian Angelo Larocco Lecturer of Nursing Rachel Miller Lecturer of Psychology Roberta Miranda Lecturer of Counseling Dr. Laura Rosales Lagarde Assistant Professor of Environmental Science Nataliya Svelmoe Lecturer of Nursing STAFF

Learning Excellence Danette Barber Student Program Coordinator

Elenis Wong Ellen Guerra Director of Marketing & Communications

Valerie Bugni Director of Partnership & Field Experiences

[48] black [+] gold ANNUAL

Advisor/Counselor

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To learn more about the NSC Rowing program, please visit NSC.EDU/ROWING