Connection Newsletter April 2019

A Publication from the Office of the President

In this Issue ...

Hundreds Turn Out for GradFest..................................... 4

Annual Awards Ceremony Honors Top Students................. 5

April 2019

Galen DeHay Named College’s Next President Galen DeHay, the senior vice president on the College’s executive leadership team, was named the College’s next President by the Commission following a special called meeting Thursday, April 11.

Galen, who has served as senior vice president for the past four years, will succeed Dr. Booth, who was named the College’s third President in 2003. Dr. Booth announced last October he will retire June 30.

Commission Chairman John Powell and members of the College Commission announced their selection by unanimous vote following an Executive Session.

The Presidential Search Committee conducted a national search over the past several months and conducted interviews with Galen and two other candidates in late March.

He will assume his duties as President July 1, 2019.

“This is a very important decision—and it was a tough Galen DeHay reacts to the offer of decision,” said Chairman Powell. “We were blessed to have three being namd the next president. excellent candidates who could serve as President of any college.

We are offering the position to Galen DeHay. He exhibited superior competencies as the Commission went through the lengthy interview process. He is young, he has a lot of ambition, and he has a great attitude. Dr. Booth put Tri-County at the top. Galen wants to take us over the top.”

(continued on page 12)

President-Elect DeHay Selected as 2019-2020 Aspen Presidential Fellow Sandvik Coromant Funds CNC Scholarships...................... 8

Vulcan Supports CCE................. 9

President-Elect Galen DeHay is among the 40 leaders nationwide selected by the Aspen Institute’s College Excellence Program to join the 2019-2020 class of the Aspen Presidential Fellowship for Community College Excellence.

This highly selective leadership program is aimed at preparing the next generation of community college presidents to transform institutions to achieve higher and more equitable levels of student success, both in college Galen DeHay and in the labor market.

“When asked to nominate someone for the Aspen Fellowship, I immediately nominated Galen,” said Dr. Booth. “The choice was obvious. He will gain much insight regarding national issues impacting higher education through this experience, but he also is well positioned to add significant and meaningful contributions to this conversation. He and his classmates

Passionate people TRANSFORMING LIVES

AND BUILDING STRONG COMMUNITIES ONE STUDENT AT A TIME.

(continued on page 13)

Connection

Connecting

is published ten times each year by the Office of the President and the Public Relations Department.

Mailing Address (All Campuses) P. O. Box 587, Pendleton, SC 29670 Pendleton Campus 7900 Highway 76, Pendleton, SC Anderson Campus 511 Michelin Blvd., Anderson, SC Easley Campus 1774 Powdersville Rd., Easley, SC Oconee Campus 552 Education Way, Westminster, SC Main Number (864) 646-TCTC (8282) Toll-free 1-866-269-5677 TDD/Voice 1-800-735-2905 Website www.tctc.edu

Tri-County Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the associate degree. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Tri-County Technical College.

Tri-County Technical College does

N

A New Leader for a New Time Dr. Ronnie L. Booth ot long after I joined Tri-County Technical College President as its new President, I met a bright, young Biology instructor named Galen DeHay. Right away I recognized his intelligence, drive, and passion for teaching and learning. I was not surprised when a few years later he was named Science Department Head.

His talents became more broadly recognized when he was appointed to lead the College’s Learning Excellence Initiative (LEI) in 2006, which served as our Quality Enhancement Plan for reaffirmation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools {SACS). His work laid the foundation for our College-wide commitment to learning college principles focused on teaching, learning, and student success.

“He truly personifies our vision to Galen went on to win the Governor’s transform lives and build strong Professor of the Year award and communities one student at a time.”

Presidential Medallion for Instructional Excellence, both in 2006, further —Dr. Ronnie L. Booth distinguishing him as a notable leader.

Galen quickly rose through the ranks to become our Senior Vice President and an invaluable member of the administration of the College. He has played a key role in shaping our culture and defining our direction in recent years—driving organizational success through our people, redefining the educational experience, positioning and equipping students for success, and embracing accountability for student learning. He truly personifies our vision to transform lives and build strong communities one student at a time, as well as our values of respect, integrity, community-mindedness, and commitment to excellence.

Galen is the perfect choice to lead this College into the next decade, and the timing of this transition couldn’t be better. Currently Galen is leading the development of our next Ten-Year Vision and Strategic Plan, which will be finalized this summer. We are poised to continue moving forward with an ambitious program of work that will have a positive impact on Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens Counties. I have no doubt that under his leadership we will maintain and improve our top rankings in student success, graduation, and transfer rates in the South Carolina Technical College System.

Galen’s commitment to the students, faculty, and staff of Tri-County Technical College is unwavering, sincere, and very personal. I couldn’t be more pleased to see him become President, and I look forward to all that lies ahead for the best technical and community college in the Nation.

As said by C. S. Lewis, “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”

not discriminate in admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, qualifying disability, veteran’s status, or national origin.

2 • CONNECTION

Ronnie L. Booth, Ph.D., President

SP

LIGHT OT

Spotlight

on Digital Badges

This fall the College will pilot issuing digital badges, a way for faculty and staff to digitally document and highlight skills learned in certain professional development workshops and/or programs.

“It’s a new way to showcase your competencies in greater detail and share it through social media, such as Linked In, Facebook, and Twitter,” said Dr. Amoena Norcross, one of the College’s curriculum consultants who serves on the digital badges team with Marianne Yohannan, Mary Orem, and Jeff Laws.

“It’s another way to document your achievements and credentials and focuses on accomplishments and outcomes. It’s granular—it allows the earner to tell a more robust story about his or her abilities,” she added.

Like paper credentials, digital badges should be verifiable and include the individual’s name, what the credential is for, and who issued it. Once the employee meets the criteria for a professional development activity for which a digital badge exists, a digital badge team member will issue a badge to the recipient who then claims the badge.

The recipient can post the badge to the social media site(s) of choice. Viewers of the badge can hover over the badge and see what skills the employee has acquired.

The first set of digital badges will be issued to those who successfully complete any of the following: • Any of the semester-long program HIPs workshops • Significant Learning by Design I online workshop • Assignment Design Charrette Facilitator Training and/or • Assignment Design Charrette Participation These badges will be issued retroactively to recipients beginning this summer, and additional badges will be developed, as well.

Executive Staff Summary • STRATEGIC PLANNING: Following numerous consensus workshops over several weeks that included feedback gathered by members of the President’s Advisory Council, a practical vision has been completed which will serve as the foundation for developing our Ten-Year Vision and Strategic Plan. The plan will focus on what we want to see in place at TCTC to generate student success and economic mobility.

Components include a diverse and inclusive culture, integrated workforce solutions, strategic community partnerships, strategic marketing, well-appointed facilities and infrastructure, highly engaged learning environment that leads to academic success, culture of evidence, and institutional processes and systems that advance the work.

Next steps include identifying obstacles to achieving this practical vision as we prepare to move forward.

• SINGLE FRONT DOOR CONCEPT: A project team will begin developing a plan to create a consistent enrollment triage for CCE and credit students to help them understand the difference between the resulting certificate of completion or college credential so they can make the most informed decision about where to begin. This project will help to improve the onboarding experience for students prior to

application to ensure students begin in the program most appropriate for their current and future needs.

• STRATEGIC ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SEM) PROJECT: A project team presented its final report that defines SEM for TCTC and next steps, which include creating a SEM Leadership Team and structure that allows the team to collectively own the enrollment process for the College and actively engage in supporting the transition and progression process for students. Components include the academic plan/program review, enrollment planning timelines and forecasting, enrollment analysis, contact strategies, data needs, and managing competitive and limited enrollment programs. The newly chartered SEM Leadership Team will develop a communications and rollout strategy to create College-wide wide awareness and understanding of SEM. • MASTER FACILITIES PLAN: The final plan is nearly complete and will be shared with the College community in an electronic format and in the library.

• OTHER: Academic Calendar approvals; policy and procedure reviews and approvals; FY20 budgeting.

April 2019 • 3

Hundreds Turn Out for GradFest GradFest, the big graduate and alumni party of the year, was held April 4 in the Student Success Center. It attracted soon-

to be-graduates and their guests, as well as faculty and staff, alumni, and their families

1983 alumnus Rocky Nimmons, publisher of the Pickens County Courier, left, talks with Roger Deagostino, a Mechatronics major.

Kelly Collins and Pam Powell work on mortarboard design under direction of Laneika Musalini, our director of grants and a Tri-County alumna, left.

Berdina Hill, left, career counselor, assists graduates with picking up their regalia.

Guests enjoyed a nacho bar, pizza and salad buffets, along with candy concessions and popcorn.

College Hosts State of Pendleton Dr. Ronnie Booth addressed a crowd of nearly 150 guests at the annual State of Pendleton event in the Student Success Center March 28. The annual event is coordinated by the Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by the College. Dr. Booth, Mayor Frank Crenshaw, and Dr. Joanne Avery, superintendent of Anderson County School District Four, each spoke about progress made during the previous year and future plans for the Pendleton community.

4 • CONNECTION

Annual Awards Ceremony Honors Top Students The College’s top students were honored at an annual awards ceremony April 17. “You represent the best of the best that

Tri-County has to offer. You should be proud to count yourselves among this group,” said President-Elect Galen DeHay

above, left: John

he enrolled at Tri-County to become more relevant in today’s workforce. He has a 4.0 GPA, he speaks Spanish and Portuguese fluently, and is a member of AZB and the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS).

Jefferson Porter, Jr., of Clemson, left, received the College’s General Engineering Technology (GET) Student Award at the annual awards ceremony recently. Presenting the plaque is Dorian McIntire, GET program director.

John, who is pursuing a second career at age 58, already holds a Mechanical Engineering degree and was an engineer before entering the ministry. He says

above, right: Chloe

Watts, center, daughter of Cyndy (administrative generalist at the Oconee Campus) and Mike Watts, was honored as the Outstanding Veterinary Technology student.

AZB Students Honored at Ceremony Congratulations to the Tri-County students who were inducted April 15 into Alpha Zeta Beta (AZB), a chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society.

Initiates must have completed at least 12 hours of college work leading toward an associate degree and attained a GPR of 3.5 or better.

Advisors Amy Borders, far left, and Jim Deloache, far right, pose with the inductees (pictured from left, front row) Amy Merritt, of Anderson, Business Administration major; Kaleigh Strouthmann, of Anderson, Media Arts Production major; Haleigh Anderson, of Manning, associate degree Nursing major; Erica Beachler, of Westminster, Business Administration major; and (back row) Rachel Ossman, of Piedmont, Administrative Office Technology major; Haley Achenberg, of West Union, Associate in Arts major; Angel Orta of Anderson, Administrative Office Technology with a medical emphasis major; and Joeseph Pearson, of Fair Play, Computer and Information Technology major.

April 2019 • 5

April is Community College Month April is Community College Month, a time to recognize and spread awareness of the hard work and achievement happening every day at Tri-County Technical College and other community college campuses across the United States.

According to the American Association of Community Colleges, there are more than 12 million students enrolled at community colleges across the country. These institutions serve an incredibly diverse student population and put millions of people’s educational and career goals within reach.

In turn, these institutions are supported by faculty, staff, and administrators who are truly a testament to what it means to commit deeply to student success.

These Tri-County graduates’ lives were impacted by their instructors, and they have returned to the classroom, this time as faculty members, making a difference by inspiring their students and serving as mentors.

Here we spotlight a few of our faculty members who tell their own “Tri-County Story.” Look for more to be featured over the new few months.

Ashley Brady Veterinary Technology Department Head Veterinary Technology degree, 2000 Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Technologist, Murray State University, 2002

“Following graduation I worked at the University of Tennessee as head Licensed Veterinary Technician (L.V.T.) in the large animal practice and later worked in private practice. But when an evening instructor positon came Ashley Brady open, I jumped at the chance to return to my alma mater. I feel like I have come full circle. I connect with my students just like my Tri-County instructors did with me, emphasizing important traits like attention to detail, critical thinking, and diligence. This job is the best of both worlds—to be an educator and have a hand with large animal medicine. It’s exciting to educate the next group of technicians. I am grateful to work where I can contribute to future of a profession I’m so passionate about. It’s rewarding to know you’ve had a part in graduates’ careers and their successes.”

Doug Wilson Program Director for Mechatronics Electronics Engineering Technology degree, 1991, Tri-County Technical College

Doug worked in industry for nearly 30 years until joining Tri-County’s faculty in 2014.

“The last few years I was working at Robert Bosch I designed, implemented Doug Wilson 6 • CONNECTION

and served as the instructor for the plant’s Technical Scholars program. I taught five students at a time. I wanted to be more purpose driven and impactful, and I could do that with a larger group of students so I joined Tri-County’s faculty. Teaching at Tri-County allows me to make a bigger impact on more students and help to transform their lives and their families’ lives through education and mentorship.”

Hubert McClure Mathematics instructor since 1995 Associate in Science, 1989, Tri-County Technical College; Bachelor’s in Mathematics and Master’s in Education, Clemson University

“I enrolled in Tri-County straight out of high school and, like many, struggled in mathematics. But encouragement from compassionate counselors, like Butch Merritt, Diana Walter, and Debbie Nelms, along with great Hubert McClure math instructors, helped me to be successful. Tri-County was a pivotal point in my life next to the Marine Corps. Tri-County was the only place I applied to teach when I graduated from Clemson. I wanted to give back to a place that turned my life around. I haven’t forgotten how difficult it was for me as a student, so I show the same patience and compassion to my students that my former instructors did for me. Initially I struggled, but I got assistance and support from faculty and staff and that made the difference. They’re still teaching me today.”

Mia Tensley Reading Instructor, COL 103 Instructor, Comprehensive Studies Division Associate in Arts, 2001, Tri-County Technical College; Bachelor’s in Special Education, Clemson University; M.Ed. in Literacy and Curriculum, Grand Canyon University

“When I enrolled in the University Transfer program, I was a firstgeneration college student without a clear understanding of college.

Mia Tensley Instructors like Dr. Waymon Estes gave me support and just enough resistance to empower me to complete that portion of my educational path. Prior to teaching here, I taught in local school districts and directed the Rehabilitative Behavior Health Services program in Oconee County. I returned to Tri-County as an instructor, as I am a strong believer that in life, I cannot simply “take from the table” and that “service to others is the rent we pay for our room on Earth.”

I have found that being involved at Tri-County affords me the ability to pay forward what was liberally given to me.”

John Woodson Program Director, Media Arts Production Radio and Television Broadcasting degree, 1985; Associate in Arts degree, 1994, Tri-County Technical College; Bachelor’s in Journalism, Anderson College, 1997; Master’s in Communication, Walden University, 2016

“I love teaching, and I love this program, which is why I never really left. Following graduation, I worked full time as a radio personality and General John Woodson Manager at WRIX in Anderson. But I remained involved at the College in one way or another. I was an adjunct instructor in the department and served on the advisory committee. I loved working in radio, but I always wanted to come back and teach at Tri-County because I am very connected to the department and the College. Specifically, I always wanted (former Department Head and mentor) Charlie Jordan’s job so when he retired in 2002, I applied and was hired as Program Director where I have the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives on a daily basis.”

GET Students Showcase Talents with Capstone Projects General Engineering Technology students showcased their final capstone projects which included an electric go-kart, electric longboard, fire extinguishing robot, and a “pick and place” pneumatic robot.

Bobby Watt Instructor, Mechatronics program Industrial Mechanics (now Mechatronics) degree, 2010, Tri-County Technical College

John Jefferson Porter demonstrates a pick and place robot for Dr. Booth and Chief of Staff Dan Cooper.

After working for 30 years as a technician and in management all over the world for companies like BASF and Dow Chemical, Bobby Watt was a victim of a plant layoff when Culp Woven Velvet in Anderson closed its doors. At the Bobby Watt age of 58, he enrolled as a full-time student under the Trade Act. The plan was to go to school for two years, get the degree, and retire, he said. But one semester later, his plans changed. “I decided I wanted to go for it and be an instructor. I knew it would be a challenge that I would enjoy,” he said.

As a first-time college student, Bobby was a little apprehensive. “School had changed drastically since I graduated in 1969, but I am young for my years, and I made friends with the younger students, and I encouraged many who were struggling academically.” The last semester, he noticed students struggling in a DC Analysis class and he tutored them—free of charge—after class. “I wanted to help,” he said.

It was then he began to contemplate pursuing teaching as a career. The next semester, just days before he was to graduate, he learned of an opening for an adjunct position. He applied and was hired. Four years later, he accepted a full-time teaching position. “I really enjoy helping students to better their lives. I love my job more than any other I’ve ever had. I am 68 years old, and I have no intention of retiring. I enjoy this too much. It’s wonderful to get paid for doing something you love.”

Isaac Looney, of Anderson, drives an electric go-cart around campus.

Karla Colin, of Westminster, shows how a fire extinguishing robot works.

April 2019 • 7

Foundation News Memorial Scholarship Honors Jackye Murphy’s Life Mission Family and friends of the late Jackye Murphy gathered April 26 to honor the life of a loved one and to celebrate the endowment of a new scholarship that honors her life’s mission.

Jackye, an Early Jackye Murphy Care and Education instructor, lost her battle with cancer in Family and friends of Jackye Murphy gathered to honor her life and to celebrate the endowment of the September 2018. Her friends, family, and new scholarship that bears her name. school family decided that establishing an endowed scholarship in her honor would be a fitting tribute business relations. “Jackye left a lasting legacy on this campus,” to a lady who has served as a role model for them and for the said Grayson. “Because of your generosity, students will receive students, always inspiring everyone to do their best, said Meredith scholarships in her honor. Thank you for all you have done.”

Dickens, Early Care and Education program director.

“It will continue her passion and legacy for education. She is “We are here to honor the life, memory, and impact Jackie not forgotten. She is in our hearts forever,” said Meredith. made on this College. She truly embodied the College’s vision Establishing the scholarship was a team effort, said Meredith. statement of Transforming Lives, Building Strong Communities, “I never imagined less than a year later we would be celebrating One Student at a Time,” said President-Elect Galen DeHay. “It the endowment of this scholarship. Thank you for sharing her was a personal mission of hers, and it was a pleasure to work with us,” she said to Jackye’s family in attendance—husband, with her.”

Patrick Murphy; daughter Jennifer Graham and son-in-law Travis “Jackye made every day an adventure,” said Meredith. “She Graham; daughter, Anna Murphy; sister, Judy Thomsen, sisterswas special and important to everyone she came in contact with. in-law, Kathleen Webb and Sharon Rogers; as well as friends, She inspired more hearts than the world knows.” former students, and fellow TCTC faculty and staff.

“The scholarship endowment has surpassed $20,000,” said Donations can be made to Tri-County Technical College’s Grayson Kelly, vice president for institutional advancement and Foundation.

Sandvik Coromant Supports CNC Students Sandvik Coromant presented a $4,500 check to the College toward its commitment to fund a scholarship for CNC students at the College. From left are Courtney White, director of development at the College; Arun Pattanaik, production unit director for Sandvik Coromant; Grayson Kelly, vice president for institutional advancement and business relations; and Angie Long, human resources business partner for Sandvik Coromant.

8 • CONNECTION

Vulcan Supports Corporate And Community Education Vulcan sponsored a clay shoot fundraiser last fall in Clinton, South Carolina, to raise money for our heavy equipment program in the Corporate and Community Education (CCE) Division. Vulcan representatives recently presented a $47,000 donation to the College.

Pictured from left are Carol Landrum (Vulcan Materials); Beverly Estes (Vulcan Materials); Grayson Kelly, vice president for institutional advancement and business relations at the College: Elliott Botzis (Vulcan Materials); Jon Giesen (Nelson Brothers); Dr. Booth; Trae Carson (C.R. Jackson); Curtis Gwin (Nelson Brothers); Rick Cothran; Mike Corona (Nelson Brothers); and Mary Corley, program director for CCE”s center for Highway Construction and Transportation Excellence.

Tri-County Students Win Awards at 2019 SCSTA College Festival Event Two Tri-County Business majors won first-place honors at the 2019 South Carolina Speech and Theater Association’s Annual College Festival Competition.

Jeighten Banning, a business major from Charleston, placed first in the Persuasive Speaking category and won third-place honors in the Informative Speaking category.

Emma Nicholson, a business major from Seneca, won first place in the Informative Speaking category. Miriam Moss, a psychology major from Simpsonville, placed second in Oral Interpretation of Poetry.

The event was held April 13 on the campus of the University of South Carolina–Lancaster.

Colleges and universities that competed in this year’s festival included Newberry College, Claflin University, Lander University, University of South Carolina–Lancaster, and Tri-County Technical College.

Tri-County was represented by four students in the competition. Joining Jeighten, Emma, and Miriam on this year’s team was Grace Dufresne, a Media Arts Production major from Cincinnati, Ohio. Each Tri-County Technical College team member advanced to the finals rounds of their respective events, eventually placing in several categories.

The Tri-County Technical College’s Speech and Drama Team is coached by instructors Greg Toney and Kim Harp.

“We have been taking teams to this competition for more than 20 years. This is a great opportunity for students to develop important communications skills and do it in a competitive environment. Everyone worked hard and was deserving of his or her success,” said Greg.

The South Carolina Speech and Theatre Association is a

Pictured from left, Jeighten Banning, a business major from Charleston, placed first in the Persuasive Speaking category and won third-place honors in the Informative Speaking category; Grace Dufresne, a Media Arts Production major from Cincinnati, Ohio; Emma Nicholson, a business major from Seneca, won first place in the Informative Speaking category; and Miriam Moss, a psychology major from Simpsonville, placed second in Oral Interpretation of Poetry.

professional organization that promotes the study of all areas of performance and oral communication: acting, oral interpretation/ performance studies, theatre, broadcasting, public speaking, discussion and debate, and speech education. Its main purpose is the advancement of the total speech and theatre effort in the educational system of the state of South Carolina.

The 2020 SCSTA College Festival Competition will be held Saturday, February 15, 2020, at the University of South Carolina– Lancaster.

April 2019 • 9

Our College Family in transition Justin Baggott began his new role as IT Trainer and Knowledge Manager. April 1.

For the last 3 years Justin has served as the Tutoring Services Coordinator. During that time, Justin built relationships and rapport with College leadership and faculty as he matured the tutoring services processes while expanding these services to the community campuses to ensure all students have the same access regardless of physical location.

Justin holds a bachelor’s degree from Clemson University and is

Justin Baggott

currently pursuing a master’s degree in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies from Florida State University.

excellence through service Congratulations to English instructor Julia Seligson, who was elected Faculty Senate President for the 2019-2020 academic year. Julia has served as the Faculty Senate Vice President for 2018-2019. Her term begins at the start of the summer 2019 semester and runs through the end of the spring 2020 semester.

Julia Seligson

Senator Fritz Hollings Dies at 97 Our sympathy goes out to the family of U.S. “I’ll never forget how we created the TEC Sen. Ernest F. “Fritz” Hollings, father of the South System. The 1961 General Assembly was about Carolina Technical College System, who died to adjourn, and the only major bill that could April 6 at his Isle of Palms home. He was 97. provide for technical training was a deficiency In the early 1960’s, when he was Governor appropriations bill, which was in conference of South Carolina, he commissioned a group committee at the time. Completely departing of legislators and representatives of the from tradition, as Governor I entered the State Development Board to look at the meeting to push for technical education. I told State’s depressed economy at that time. The the legislators that the ox was just about in committee traveled around the United States the ditch. Two programs were underway using viewing technical education systems in other Clemson facilities, and I had promised three states. After a year-long study, they filed a other industrialists that the State would train report that said the only way for South Carolina their workers if they moved here. We had to to improve its economy would be to develop its have the money. We had to have the facilities.

Senator Fritz Hollings most valuable resource — its people.

We had to have a program.

Less than a year after the committee filed its report, tri-county The conference committee agreed to a limited budget for leaders talked about working together to become a part of the technical education, and the State’s technical education program movement to improve the economy in the region and State. was written out that afternoon.”

Political leaders and economic developers believed that an Tri-County was founded in 1962 when the tri-county leaders investment in improving the knowledge and skills of all South pooled their resources to plan the College after Act 323, Section Carolinians would be recouped through an expanded economy.

23, of the South Carolina General Assembly established the An ardent supporter of Tri-County and the SC Technical State Committee for Technical Education and provided for the College System, he often was a guest speaker at major events establishment of regional centers. over the years. At his May 27, 1977, speech at the dedication of Governor Hollings signed Act 905 of the General Assembly on Wilson, Halbert, and Cleveland halls, he recalled the early days April 7, 1962, creating what would eventually become Tri-County of Tri-County.

Technical College.”

10 • CONNECTION

Dr. Lynn Lewis Retires Dr. Lynn Lewis participated in her final graduation ceremony May 6—the same day she retired as Dean of the Health Education Division.

“I’ve worked every summer since I was 16 years old,” Lynn said at a retirement celebration held April 25. “So this is the first summer I have no commitments.”

Plans include enjoying her five grandchildren, the youngest of whom is two and one half weeks sold.

She added that she has a trip to Italy planned for 2020.

“I am really going to miss Lynn,” said Jackie Rutledge, nursing department head, who worked with her since 2002. “She has been so supportive, always giving encouragement. She is very knowledgeable and has a way of making you critically think about Dr. Lynn Lewis is pictured at her retirement reception with her son. things. She has been a great mentor to me.”

Lynn joined Tri-County in 2002 as Chair of the Health Prior to joining Tri-County, she was with the Parke-Davis Education Division which is comprised of the following and UCB Pharmaceutical Companies for a decade and on the departments: Associate Degree Nursing, Emergency Medical staff of Baptist Medical Center, Easley (now Palmetto Health Technology, Expanded Duty Dental Assisting, Medical Baptist Easley) as its in-service educator and director of Staff Assisting, Medical Laboratory Technology, Personal Care Aide, Development and Public Relations. She began her career as a Practical Nursing, Pre-Dental Hygiene, Pre-Pharmacy, Surgical Staff Nurse at that hospital.

Technology, and Veterinary Technology. In 2005 she was named Dr. Lewis served on the Pickens County Free Medical Clinic Dean of the division. advisory board and on Clemson University’s School of Nursing Lynn was appointed by Governor Mark Sanford in 2003 to advisory board. represent the Third Congressional District on the nine-member She received the SC League for Nursing Award of Excellence State Board of Nursing. She served as Secretary of the board, in 2006 and the Palmetto Gold Award from the SC Nurses Vice President, and later President. She was appointed by the Foundation in 2007. She was selected as an “extraordinary National Council of State Boards of Nursing to its Disciplinary woman in healthcare” panelist by AnMed Health last March and Resources Committee in 2009. was a National League of Nursing Ambassador in 2007. She was She holds a B.S.N. from Clemson University, a master’s in named Pickens County Career Woman of the Year in 2004 and Health Sciences from the Medical University of South Carolina, Tri-County Technical College’s Administrator of the Year in 2005. and a doctorate in Vocational and Technical Education from Other memberships include the National League for Nursing Clemson. (agency member) and the SC League for Nursing.

Thank You for Supporting United Way Many thanks to all of you who contributed so generously to the 2019 TCTC United Way Fundraising Campaign. Because of your generosity, we raised $8,032 this year, a 44 percent increase over the amount raised during the 2018 campaign ($5,564). That’s a remarkable increase in contributions!

Like Tri-County Technical College, United Way is in the business of transforming lives and building strong

communities in Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens counties.

Your generosity will enable them to help thousands of children and families—including some of our students—to achieve their full potential and lead healthy, productive lives.

We appreciate your giving spirit and compassion for our neighbors.

April 2019 • 11

DeHay Named College’s Next President (continued from page 1)

Upon accepting the offer, Galen thanked the Commission and said, “I am humbled and honored. This College means a lot to me.”

He acknowledged his admiration for Dr. Booth, whom he calls a mentor. “Tri-County is a high-performing institution, with a focus on student success and economic mobility— helping individuals grow in their careers and in life,” he said.

As President, he says, “We will build on the College’s prior successes in the areas of helping students to be successful and continuing to be an asset for economic development. I want to help students to realize their potential. When they do that, then that is our success,” he said.

Dr. Booth congratulates Galen DeHay. “I also want to help business and industry to be A former Biology faculty member and Science Department successful and focus on economic mobility while creating Head at Tri-County, Galen has more than 11 years of teaching stronger, more intentional partnerships with them. Specifically, experience in the College’s Arts and Sciences Division.

I would like to see the College continue to expand its economic He says a love for biology and teaching led him to Tri-County and workforce development mission as we continue to improve 20 years ago after he graduated from Clemson University. “I workforce opportunities for our communities.” wanted to make a difference for students like me, so I wanted As Senior Vice President, Galen has provided leadership to teach at Tri-County,” said Galen, who was raised in a singlefor all academic, student support, enrollment, and workforce parent home and worked 25 hours a week in the summers to development functions of the College, including Academic Affairs, afford books while a student at Clemson.

Student Support and Engagement, College Transitions, Marketing, He taught Biology for 11 years and served as Department Research and Evaluation, and Integrated Workforce Solutions.

Head for four years before accepting an administrative post as Under his direction, the College developed manufacturing Director of Planning and Institutional Effectiveness in 2012. He and health care pathways (I-BEST programs) for high school and joined the College in August of 1999. non-traditional student populations. He also led the team in He is the 2007 recipient of Tri-County’s Presidential Medallion the creation of the Michelin Manufacturing Scholars program in for Instructional Excellence, the highest award presented to collaboration with Michelin North America. The program won the faculty at Tri-County. The same year he was named the S.C. 2018 Innovation Program award from the Community Colleges of Governor’s Professor of the Year for two-year institutions. In 2013 the Appalachia. he was named Tri-County’s Administrator of the Year at the South He co-developed and implemented a business and industry Carolina Technical Education Association conference. relations model that improved the College’s ability to meet Currently he serves on the Anderson County Economic emerging workforce needs and designed an integrated workforce Development Collaborative board and Foothills CAN. He serves solutions structure that integrates non–credit and credit on the Commission on Higher Education Advisory Committee on programming to meet workforce needs.

Academic Programs and the BASF Community Advisory Panel. He In collaboration with College staff, Galen created partnerships is a member of the American College Personnel Association and with Adult Education that resulted in the formation of a State the Society for College and University Planning. model educational pathway between adult education and Over the past several years, he has been a presenter at State technical colleges. In February, the College was honored at the and national conferences for the Association of Community South Carolina Association for Adult and Community Educators College Trustee Leadership Congress, American Association of conference with the Outstanding Organization of the Year Award Community Colleges, Society of College and University Planning, for its partnership with Adult Education in Anderson, Oconee, State and national STEM conferences, and local business and and Pickens counties to develop and support the I-BEST career industry forums. pathways.

He holds B.S. and M.S. degrees from Clemson University He previously served as Interim Provost and Vice President for and is a Dissertation Candidate toward a Ph.D. from Clemson Academic Affairs, and Assistant Vice President for Instruction and University.

Institutional Effectiveness.

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Program Director Assists in Surgery Stephanie Brown, L.V.T. and program director for Veterinary Technology, regularly assists veterinarians at the Greenville Zoo with surgeries. Recently, she assisted Dr. Beth Romig of Upstate Veterinary Specialists with the removal of a cracked premolar in Chuma, a 10-yearold, 470-pound male lion who lives at the zoo. X-rays revealed a cracked tooth, and Chuma, pictured here, underwent surgery to extract the tooth that was larger than a quarter.

BASF Interviews I-BEST Students BASF representatives visited the I-BEST Manufacturing class to recruit potential new talent for the Seneca plant. Each class member had the opportunity to submit a resume as well as interview with them. I-BEST student John Ligon, middle, is pictured with from left, Jared Bears, engineer, and Area Manager Gene Durrance, right.

Aspen Presidential Fellow (continued from page 1)

will greatly benefit from this superb opportunity.”

Galen and the 39 other Aspen Presidential Fellows will embark on a 10-month fellowship beginning in July 2019.

Delivered in collaboration with the Stanford Educational Leadership Initiative, the fellows will work with mentors— current and former community college presidents—who have achieved exceptional outcomes for students throughout their careers. Fellows also will learn from national experts about ways to harness data to assess student success outcomes, strategies for internal change leadership, and how to create strong external partnerships with K-12 schools, four-year colleges, and employers.

Galen was selected through a rigorous process that considered his abilities to take strategic risks, lead strong teams and cultivate partnerships, and focus on resultsoriented improvements in student success and access.

Firefly Gets New Home Firefly was excited to go home with Hunter Gladson, a Clemson University student who adopted the German Shepherd mix at the Vet Tech Adoption Day held April 17.

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Welding Students Dominate State Competition Our Welding students swept the awards at the Annual South Carolina Technical College Statewide Welding Competition April 18. They took home five first-place awards and one thirdplace honor in six categories. Fifty students representing 10 technical colleges competed at Horry-Georgetown Technical College.

Tri-County students are pictured on the front row, from left to right, Andrew Blackwell, of Seneca, third-place winner; Alstyn Hyatt, of Travelers Rest, first-place winner; Tristan Pitt, of Travelers Rest, first-place winner; Kenneth Deshawn Williams, Seneca, firstplace winner; Gage Durham, of Pickens, first-place winner; and Micah Bagley, Chapin, first-place winner.

Tri-County instructors are pictured, back row, from left to right, Randy Price, adjunct instructor and welding alumnus; Scott Brabham, faculty member and alumnus; Mark Hester, adjunct instructor and alumnus; Larry Hembree, adjunct instructor and alumnus; Paul Phelps, department head for CNC and Welding and alumnus; Matt Woodall, faculty member and alumnus; and Dock Houston, adjunct instructor and alumnus.

CRJ Open House Features Force Simulation Lab

MLT Student Places Second in State MLT Bowl

The Criminal Justice Department invited faculty, staff, and students to drop by open house events where instructors demonstrated the Force Simulation Lab located in Pickens Hall 153 (old IT help desk). Cara Hamilton, vice president for business affairs, was a volunteer who experienced what it is like to be a police officer by using this state-of-the-art simulator that includes a variety of realistic and graphic law enforcement encounters.

Four Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) students competed against six technical colleges in the State MLT Bowl recently, and Matthew Anderson (seated, left) was the second-place winner. Pictured with him are (seated) Abigail Winquest, of Central, and (standing) Megan Thrift of Liberty; and Lashania Roach, of Seneca.

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