Connection Newsletter March - April 2022

A Publication from the Office of the President

In this Issue…

A Great Example of Partnership and Success................................ 5

Celebrating Black History Month.......................................... 7

Inaugural Men of Color Golf Tournament ...............12–13

Clemson Downs Supports CNA Scholarship......................16

March/April 2022

Alumnus Dr. Smith Heavner to Deliver Commencement Address Dr. Smith Heavner, a TCTC alumnus and a registered nurse with more than a decade of clinical experience, specializing in emergency and critical care nursing, will deliver the College’s spring commencement address.

The ceremony will be held Saturday, May 14, at 1 p.m. at Clemson University’s Littlejohn Coliseum.

Dr. Heavner is a public health scientist, earning a doctor of philosophy from Clemson University in 2021, and currently serves as the Scientific Director of the CURE Drug Repurposing Collaboratory, an international research consortium.

Dr. Heavner was a research manager at Prisma Health when COVID-19 made it to the U.S. He was tasked with Dr. Smith Heavner overseeing the development of the organization’s COVID-19 registry. The work included providing the data for leaders to make decisions about mask and visitation policies, as well as representing the health system in an international registry effort led by the Mayo Clinic and Society of Critical Care Medicine Discovery Network.

His work with COVID-19 built his national reputation and earned him his current job.

Dr. Heavner is a two-time graduate of Tri-County Technical College, earning a diploma in Practical Nursing in 2010 and an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing in 2012.

He holds adjunct faculty appointments at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville and Clemson University and is a member of the 2022 cohort of Global Clinical Research Scholars at Harvard Medical School. His research interests include regulatory science, evaluation theory, drug repurposing, LGBTQ+ health disparities, healthcare access, moral distress and burnout, and bio-informatics. (continued on page 15)

Celebrating 60 Years For six decades, Tri-County Technical College has been serving the citizens of Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties.

Sixty years ago (April 7, 1962), Tri-County Technical College made South Carolina history by becoming the first multi-county technical institute in the state.

Throughout the course of the year we will celebrate 60 years of service in the pages of this publication, on our website, and on social media. We will highlight accomplishments and focus on milestone events and photos from the last six decades. It will be a year of reflecting on our past and looking to the future. For a look back at our beginning, go to page 6.

Passionate people TRANSFORMING LIVES

AND BUILDING STRONG COMMUNITIES ONE STUDENT AT A TIME.

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

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Connecting

A

Vision, Mission, Values and Commitments Dr. Galen DeHay pril is Community College Month, and it’s a great President time to reflect on the role of Tri-County Technical College and our 15 sister colleges across the state. It is no secret that community colleges reflect the needs of their local communities, and this is evidenced in our vision, mission and values.

Last year, an internal work group was formed to review the College’s vision, mission and values to ensure they reflect where the College is today and where we want it to be in the future. All of this work was informed by our strategic plan, focus group sessions held over the past few years, and insights from our external stakeholders and the Commission.

Throughout the review process, three considerations were top of mind: 1) create a vision that is aspirational and details what we want to achieve or become, 2) develop a mission that is actionable and explains how we achieve our vision, and 3) establish values that serve as shared beliefs that guide our actions.

After much discussion, we decided not to change the College’s vision statement as there is a lot of excitement and energy around our current vision and because our work to transform lives and build strong communities is ongoing. We made some changes to the mission statement, with the most important change connecting our work to improving the quality of life for those we serve. We simplified the language in our values to make them easier to recall. We also replaced two values and added two new ones for a total of six. Lastly, we added commitments to our students, employees and community.

You can find the updated vision, mission, values and commitments on page 19 of this newsletter and on our website (tctc.edu) under the About Us section.

Vision, mission, values and commitments are not the only ways we tell the Tri-County story. Our role and commitment to our community is also evidenced in our brand and visual identity. Earlier this year I announced that the College was reviewing its brand. Like the vision and mission, we want to make sure our brand reflects where the College is today and where we want it to be in the future.

Through extensive focus groups with students and employees, we learned that the TriCounty brand (i.e., the experience our students and employees have every time they step foot on our campuses) is strong, but our visual identity needs a refresh. We took what we learned from these focus groups and engaged an outside agency to help us develop a new visual identity, which we will unveil in late spring.

I look forward to sharing our new visual identity with you in the next edition of “Connection.” Until then, I wish you all a successful conclusion to the spring semester.

In your service,

Galen DeHay, Ph.D. President

Commission Votes to Freeze Tuition, Extends No-Cost Tuition Tri-County Technical College students will not see an increase in in-county tuition for the 2022-2023 academic year. At a bi-monthly meeting held April 4, College Commissioners voted unanimously to freeze tuition for the third consecutive year.

In addition to the tuition freeze, Tri-County will continue to offer zero-cost tuition to eligible students through the 20222023 academic year.

To be eligible, students must be enrolled in a high-demand field such as health care, manufacturing, hospitality/tourism, construction, transportation, distribution and logistics, criminal justice, early care and education, and human services. They also must maintain a 2.0 GPA, complete a 2022-2023 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and complete one of the following requirements: be employed, take a financial literacy course offered at the technical college, or complete 100 hours of community service.

“Our focus is to put students first, so making college accessible and affordable to all citizens in the tri-county service area is our priority,” said TCTC President Dr. Galen

DeHay. “A steady tuition rate, along with scholarships available through the TCTC Foundation, lottery tuition assistance, and other state and federal funding will help with the financial challenges students and their families face when attending college,” he said.

Tri-County’s tuition is the second lowest among all 16 technical colleges in the state and the lowest in the Upstate.

A two-year degree at Tri-County costs roughly less than one semester at a four-year college or university.

“Making education accessible and affordable has been TCTC’s mission since its inception,” said Tom Strange, chair of the TCTC Commission. Despite the many challenges presented by the global pandemic over the past two years, the College kept an unwavering focus on serving its students and the community, he said. “We are pleased to be able to not raise our tuition rates for the upcoming academic year and urge students to take advantage of the broad range of financial aid and scholarships that support their education.”

The Commission also discussed course material fees and unanimously voted to increase the current $150 fee per course to $200.

Gradfest: Food, Fun and Festivities Gradfest, an annual celebration for students to get together for food, fun and festivities and to pick up their regalia for spring commencement, was held April 14 in the Student Success Center. Spring commencement will be held Saturday, May 14, at 1 p.m. at Clemson University’s Littlejohn Coliseum.

above, left: Daken

Swinger, a computer technology/cybersecurity forensics major, left, brought his father, Kenneth, right, and brother Myles, middle, to the festivities.

above, right: Lynn

Bonner King will receive an associate degree in nursing at spring commencement. She secured a job at AnMed Rehab after finishing her coursework and clinicals in December 2021. She also is a 2013 alumna of the medical assisting program.

Left: Twins Hannah and Makenzie Green picked up their graduation regalia at Gradfest. Hannah will receive a business administration degree and Makenzie will receive a medical assisting degree at spring commencement. Pictured with them is Tammy Krush, office manager for the Arts & Sciences Division.

March/April 2022 • 3

TCTC Commission Elects New Chair, Officers Thomas Strange of Easley is the new chairman of Tri-County as well as a restaurant management and commercial leasing Technical College’s Commission, the nine-member governing operation. board of the College.

He is a member and former chairman of the Anderson Hamid Mohsseni of Anderson was elected vice chair.

Economic Development Board and has participated in several Jim Kaplan of Pickens was re-elected secretary. overseas economic development partnerships, including They took office at the April 4 meeting. missions to China and Ireland. He is a 2005 graduate of “Chairman Strange shares in our belief in the transformative Leadership South Carolina. He served as chairman of the power of education, Leadership South and he brings a wealth Carolina board for of experience to his role two years and is a as chair,” said TCTC graduate of Leadership President Galen DeHay. Anderson.

“I’m looking forward to Mohsseni serves on working with Tom as we the Board of Regents continue to advance our for Anderson University mission and vision.” and the local Salvation Strange, who Army board. He has previously served as served on the boards the Commission’s vice of Region’s Bank, the Thomas Strange Hamid Mohsseni Jim Kaplan chair, was appointed Anderson Chamber of to the Commission in April 2017, following a three-year stint Commerce, the Anderson YMCA, United Way of Anderson County from 2011 to 2014. Until his retirement, Strange worked for and the AnMed Hospital Foundation. He is an ex-officio member 23 years for Abbott (formerly St. Jude Medical) in Liberty. As of the Tri-County Technical College Foundation. senior director of research and development, he introduced A native of Tehran, Iran, Mohsseni came to the United States many new technologies that continue to define state of the art in 1977, earning a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from in implantable medical devices for both pacing and arrhythmia Clemson University. correction.

He has made Anderson his home for 25 years with his wife, He served on the Foundation Board of Tri-County Technical KD, and their son, Maddox.

College from 2014 to 2017.

Kaplan was appointed to the Commission in 2018.

His honors and achievements include receiving the 1998 St. He is CEO of Cornell Dubilier Electronics, a manufacturer Jude Medical Hendrickson Award for his work on development of electric components. With corporate headquarters and of flat capacitors, the highest honor for St. Jude; and has been manufacturing in Liberty, the company also operates from sites inducted into the Abbott Volwiler Society as a Senior Research in Massachusetts, California, Illinois, Mexico, North Carolina, Fellow, the highest honor for Abbott scientists. He is also an and Hong Kong. He joined the company as a process engineer American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineers Fellow. in 1988 and later moved to Mexicali, Mexico, where he was After receiving his undergraduate degree, he completed production control manager. He moved back to Liberty in 1994 graduate studies in physics at the University of South Carolina to assume the role of manufacturing manager and later was and joined Philips Components as a member of the research named general manager (1996 -1999). He was the president staff and participated in or led the research activity involving the from 2000 to 2021 and now serves as CEO. development of electrochemical and AC film capacitors.

Kaplan received a bachelor of science degree in ceramic Strange serves on the board of directors for the Fine Arts engineering from Clemson University and an MBA from The Center, Musical Instrument Research Catalog, and was a College of William and Mary. founding member of the S.C. Biotechnology Industry Organization He serves on several boards, including the Pickens County (2008-2016). He and his wife, Debra, have a son, Derek.

United Way, Electronic Industry Association, Alliance Pickens Mohsseni was appointed to the Commission in 2020.

County and the Electronic Components Industry Association. He He is president and CEO of Anderson Restaurant Group in is a former Red Cross board member.

Anderson. The company operates two full-service restaurants— He is a member of Grace United Methodist Church. He and Tucker’s Restaurant and Carson’s Steak Warehouse & Saloon, his wife, Julee, have three children.

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A Great Example of Partnership and Success BASF, TCTC and Apprenticeship Carolina joined with other community partners at the Oconee Campus March 1 to celebrate the first completers of the educational component of the BASF North American Apprenticeship Development Program and to welcome the second cohort.

Last summer seven TCTC students joined the BASF team as apprentices who pursued a TCTC credential and Department of Labor credentials while also earning a full-time wage through onthe-job training at the company’s Seneca plant.

This collaboration is a partnership between BASF, TCTC and Apprenticeship Carolina.

The twelve-month apprenticeship program pays apprentices a full-time wage and full benefits to participate in on-the-job training at BASF’s Seneca facility while earning a certificate in Process Technology from Tri-County. At the end of the program, apprentices have the skills and credentials to be placed in permanent positions at BASF’s Seneca site.

In addition to paying a competitive wage, BASF offers medical, dental, vision, vacation and other benefits and covers the cost of tuition, books and fees associated with the certificate program.

“This is a great example of partnership and success,” said TCTC President Galen DeHay. “We couldn’t do this without the partnership with TCTC and Apprenticeship Carolina,” said BASF Seneca Operations Manager Dave Sanders. “This partnership is so important because it provides people with no prior experience in manufacturing with the tools they need to explore and find success in the manufacturing industry.”

We have been successful in attracting new, diverse talent through this program, and we are looking forward to a continued collaboration,” added BASF Senior Vice President of Precious Metal Services Tim Ingle.

“Innovative, collaborative programs of this type are a unique solution to the challenges of workforce recruitment and development. By closely working with our business partners to understand their workforce needs, Tri-County continues its tradition of building strong communities of skilled workers who create value for their employers while starting successful careers,” said Bryan Manuel, dean of Integrated Workforce Solutions at TCTC.

(continued on page 19)

The first cohort of BASF’s apprenticeship development program poses with President DeHay, center, and BASF representatives.

Dr. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie, TCTC vice president of academic affairs and workforce development, talks to first cohort Victor Ikenna Odor.

President DeHay, right, talks with Elba Lizardi, BASF site director, and Tim Ingle, BASF senior vice president, precious metal services.

The second apprenticeship cohort poses with BASF representatives.

March/April 2022 • 5

The History of Tri-County Technical College The greatest single resource that South Carolina has with which to attract industry is its people. Experience has shown that industrial prospects are primarily interested in the nature and caliber of their prospective employees.

This was the conclusion drawn by a subcommittee of the South Carolina General Assembly back in 1961 after being tasked with studying the needs of the state development board on the subject of technical training.

Their findings prompted the birth of a system of 16 technical colleges in South Carolina. Created as tools for economic development, the colleges were charged with preparing the state’s greatest resource—its people—for employment.

One year later, Tri-County was founded in 1962 when the area leaders pooled their resources to plan the College after Act 323, Section 23, of the South Carolina General Assembly established the S.C. Committee for Technical Education and provided for the establishment of regional centers.

As South Carolina’s Governor, Ernest (Fritz) Hollings signed Act 905 of the General Assembly on April 7, 1962, creating what would eventually become Tri-County Technical College.

Senator Hollings is recognized as the father of South Carolina’s system of technical education. He is credited with opening the door to higher education in 1962 for thousands of South Carolinians who wouldn’t have had this opportunity without the creation of the state’s system of 16 technical colleges.

Senators J.B. Lawton of Anderson County, Marshall Parker of Oconee County, and Earle Morris of Pickens County, joined Senator John C. West of Kershaw County, representative of the state committee, to request funds from the General Assembly

above: The founders of Tri-County Technical College:

Senator Earle Morris, Pickens County; Senator J.B. Lawton, Anderson County; Senator Marshall Parker, Oconee County; Senator Donald Russell; Senator John West; and founding Chairman Aubrey Marshall above, right: Bill

Yarborough, first director of TCTC

right: Technical Education Center, 1960s

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for the original funding of $500,000 for Tri-County. Their efforts were successful, and construction began on a hilltop donated by Clemson University approximately two miles south of Clemson on Highway 76 in Pendleton. Pickens Hall was the first building on the site.

Tri-County Technical Education Center became operational in the fall of 1963. It was located on a 23-acre tract of land, donated by Clemson University on Highway 76 in Pendleton. The classroom/laboratory/administration building contained 42,000 square feet of floor space.

The Technical Education Center (TEC) opened September 10, 1963, with Bill Yarborough as director. It attracted 919 students during its first year of operation. The curricula included electronics technology, machine tool, welding, and other engineering technologies. Hughie Dewitt Collins, of Mountain Rest, pictured at left, was the first student to enroll. Aubrey Marshall, founding chairman of the Area Commission, welcomed him.

Celebrating Black History Month

Attendees Learn about TCTC, Careers at Open House

The Black History 101 Mobile Museum was on display February 24 in the Student Success Center. The awardwinning display features a collection of over 10,000 original artifacts of Black memorabilia dating from the trans-Atlantic slave trade era to hip-hop culture.

Founded by Dr. Khalid el-Hakim, the Black History 101 Mobile Museum has been called the “Schomburg of the Hip-Hop generation” because of his passionate commitment to carry on the rich tradition of the Black Museum Movement.

Many of these high-demand programs are covered through workforce scholarships whereby South Carolina residents can take advantage of zero-cost tuition.

Lynn Addis, a retiree who now is an adjunct instructor for the Corporate and Community Education Division, right, talks with prospective student Michelle Niederriter about medical coding classes.

Kavon Shah (center), national executive director of the Black History 101 Museum, talks with Dr. Laneika Musalini, director of grants (left), and Travis Durham, director of student engagement and accountability (right).

Enrollment Counselor Jessica Foxworth, left, talks to Annie Kelley about enrolling in the Criminal Justice program.

Twin sisters Mekaila and Shailaya Johnson explore the display.

March/April 2022 • 7

Our College Family in transition Donald White Retires A willingness to go above and beyond expectations and a genuine investment in student success are just two of the attributes that colleagues say make Donald White stand out as a role-model student success coach.

Friends, family, coworkers and retirees honored White, senior success coach for the community campuses, who retired February 28. For 13 years, he provided enrollment counseling and proactive academic advising to prospective and current students to ensure a strong foundation for success.

“Donald epitomizes the Tri-County Technical College vision— ‘Passionate people, transforming lives and building strong communities, one student at a time,’” said Jenni Creamer, assistant vice president for college transitions. “There is no one more passionate than Donald. Transforming lives—there are too many to count. Building strong communities—he has done that here and out in the community. No one is more student centered than Donald.”

Before his retirement, White visited with President DeHay to talk about his impending retirement. “Our talk was the highlight of my day, although bittersweet as he’s retiring. His deep commitment to students, the community and TCTC will be hard to replace,” said Dr. DeHay. White says he relates to many of the students he has counseled and mentored over the years and in many ways, he has traveled the same path some have, such as suddenly changing careers. “I know first-hand that changing careers is scary,” said White. In 2006, the company he worked for went bankrupt and went out of business. He was unemployed for two years, living on unemployment. “2006 was a rough year for me. My wife passed away in October, and in November Delta Woodside went out of business. I was a single parent raising our 13-year-old daughter.

In 2008, I was blessed and fortunate to be hired to work at TCTC, initially as an admissions counselor,” he said.

He said he has many wonderful TCTC memories but focusing on students in need has been a highlight. He cherishes the letters he has received from students who told him he made a difference in their lives. “That makes me feel really good,” he said.

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Retirement began March 1 when he helped his daughter and son-in-law move into their new house, followed by a week-long fishing trip. He plans to volunteer at United Way, AIM and his church. “I want to stay busy, helping people in the community, just like I did at Tri-County,” he said.

“Nobody has the heart for this work like Donald,” said Mandy Elmore, dean of the Engineering and Industrial Technology Division. “He has made such an impression on so many people.

We were lucky to be his co-workers.”

Dr. Kristen Gerhardt Departs College Dr. Kristen Gerhardt, director of bridge programs and educational partnerships, second from left, has accepted a job out of state, and her last day at the College was March 31. Here, she poses with her team, from left, Chris Maddox, Angel Wheeler and Amy Cromer.

Dr. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie Named VP of Academic Affairs and Workforce Development Dr. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie has been named vice president of academic affairs and workforce development.

Dr. Guiseppi-Elie joined the College on March 1. In this role, he serves as chief academic officer and is responsible for working with faculty to build and promote relevant, innovative and highquality programs that support student success. He also oversees workforce services that promote financial stability and economic growth and ensures that the College’s workforce training programs meet the current and future needs of business and industry.

“Dr. Guiseppi-Elie has a wealth of experience and a strong record of accomplishments in higher education, entrepreneurial industrial research and product development,” said President DeHay. “We are pleased to have him on our team as his leadership is integral to fulfilling our mission of helping students reach their goals and supporting economic development in the region by preparing a highly-skilled workforce.”

Most recently Dr. Guiseppi-Elie served as founding dean of the College of Engineering, vice president of industry relations, and university distinguished professor at Anderson University. In this role, he led the establishment of the College of Engineering and the formulation of an integrated engineering and liberal arts

curriculum. Prior to his role at Anderson University, Dr. GuiseppiElie served as associate dean of engineering medicine and TEES research professor of engineering at Texas A&M University and Houston Methodist Hospital, where he participated in the development of a unique engineering medicine program that allowed students to earn their medical degree and master of engineering at the same time. He also spent nine years as a professor in the College of Engineering at Clemson University and eight years as a professor in the College of Engineering and School of Medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Dr. Guiseppi-Elie has a doctor of science degree in materials science and engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a master of science degree in chemical engineering from the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, and a bachelor of science degree with an emphasis in analytical chemistry, biochemistry and applied chemistry from the University of the West Indies. He also is a graduate of the Academic Leadership Academy at Penn State University.

In his scholarly career, Dr. Guiseppi-Elie has published more than 200 archival scientific papers and 33 book or proceedings chapters. He holds eight U.S. and foreign patents and has given more than 220 invited lectures. He is founding editor-in-chief of “Bioengineering,” an open-access journal that focuses on biomolecular and cellular engineering, biological cybernetics and bionics.

Dr. Guiseppi-Elie has been a Fulbright Specialist and holds fellowships in the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE), the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES).

Daniel Adams serves as director of the Easley campus. He comes to us from Presbyterian College (PC), where he served as director of student involvement from 2012 until earlier this year.

Prior to that, he was conduct and outdoor coordinator for Clemson University from 2011 to 2012 and advisor and campus manager at Bryant Daniel Adams and Stratton College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from 2009 until 2011.

Daniel served as an officer in the S.C. Army National Guard as a rear detachment commander from 2005 until 2010.

He holds a bachelor of science degree in parks and recreation, along with a master of education degree in student affairs/ administration, both from Clemson University.

While at PC, he was a member of the President’s Strategic Vision Team, co-chaired the step-it-up wellness program and served as chair of the 19th Presidential Inauguration Week. He was a strategic retention team leader while at Bryant and Stratton.

Daniel is an American Red Cross-certified instructor for first aid, CPR and AED courses.

He and his wife, Emily, live in Simpsonville with their children, Isaiah 7, Evelyn, 4, and Levi, 2.

Rachel Ristine is the veterans affairs coordinator/records analyst in the Student Data Center. Rachel served in the U.S. Navy as an aviation electronic technician in Jacksonville, Florida, and San Diego, California, for five years before working as a park ranger for the national park services in Crescent City, CA, for six years and last year for the U.S. Rachel Ristine Forest Services in Charleston.

While in the service, she received the Navy Achievement Medal in 2009 and is the recipient of two national park services STAR awards.

She earned an associate in arts degree from Skagi Valley College in Mount Vernon, WA, and a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies with a minor in resources management from the University of Washington, Seattle.

Rachel resides in Pickens.

Marisa Reichert is the public services and outreach librarian in the Learning Commons on the Pendleton campus. She worked in public libraries in Florida and Massachusetts for the past eight years, most recently as at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts with a concentration in humanities from New College of Florida Marisa Reichert and a master of science degree in library services and information sciences at Simmons University.

She is a member of the Organization for Transformative Works.

She resides in Central.

Pedro (Pete) Escamilla is one of the College’s student success coaches.

For the past 10 years he has worked as a government and economics teacher at San Antonio ISD and at Thomas Jefferson High School in San Antonio, Texas. From 2007 to 2011, he was assistant basketball coach and campus technology coordinator at Southside ISD. Pete Escamilla Pete earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science and a master of education degree in curriculum and instruction from Texas A&M University.

He is a member of Saint Andrew’s Catholic Church in Clemson.

He and his wife, Clare, live in Pendleton. (continued on page 10) March/April 2022 • 9

excellence through service Dr. Mark Dougherty Honored

By SCCPA Dr. Mark Dougherty is the 2022 recipient of the Paul P. Fidler Bridge Builder Award. Mark was honored by the South Carolina College Personnel Association (SCCPA) for his contributions to the field of student affairs. The award recognizes the contributions Dr. Mark Dougherty of a student affairs professional and/ or faculty member who is building a stronger alliance between students and academic affairs.

Dr. Laneika Musalini’s Dissertation Receives Top Honors When Grants Director Dr. Laneika Musalini received her doctorate of education (in higher education executive leadership) degree in December 2021, she also was honored with an President Galen DeHay, pictured with Dr. Musalini, served as the third reader unexpected accolade—the on her dissertation committee. outstanding dissertation award for her cohort at Wingate University. Dr. Musalini’s dissertation is titled “Factors that Impact African American Students’ Decision Making to Attend Community College.”

Dr. Jackie Blakley Receives Multiple Honors Dr. Jackie Blakley, dean of the Business and Public Services Division, was honored with several recognitions over the last few months.

Dr. Blakley learned April 4 that she was named the Upstate winner among the four Remarkable Women initiative Dr. Jackie Blakley nominees that were featured on WSPATV in March. Sponsored by Nexstar Media Group, its television stations across 114 markets each selected four local women for consideration as that market’s “Remarkable Woman.” Dr. Blakley was featured in a WSPA segment where her many college and community accomplishments were highlighted. Her younger daughter Briana, who nominated her, and older daughter, Sterlin, talked about their admiration for their mother and how she serves as an inspiration for many.

Also, Women’s Empowerment, Inc., honored Dr. Blakley with the Empowering Women in Education award at its annual conference in March.

Westside High School Principal Kory Roberts presented her 10 • CONNECTION

with the Trailblazer Award during Black History Month.

Article by Mia Tensley Featured On ETV Website An article written by Comprehensive Studies instructor Mia Tensley is featured in the guest blogger series on ETV’s website. As a result of her teacher recertification coursework, Mia’s Mia Tensley instructor suggested she submit an article to Kathy Finger, research and special projects coordinator at ETV. Mia’s piece, titled “Flying a Plane in Turbulence while Orchestrating a Magic Show during a Pandemic” was selected. “It is a great article and wonderful example of TCTC’s faculty being flexible and innovative despite the trying times,” said Dr. Chris Marino, TCTC director of research and evaluation. “It is also an example of dedicated faculty keeping student learning front and center.”

in transition (continued from page 9)

Adrienne Shepard recently joined the team as one of the College’s TC Central specialists.

Previously she worked at Southern Wesleyan University (SWU) in the office of admissions for nine years as office manager and dual enrollment coordinator.

Adrienne Shepard Adrienne earned a bachelor of science in human services from SWU. She resides in Central and has two children.

Tammy Krush joined the Tri-County team in September of 2021 in a part-time capacity and recently accepted the full-time position of office manager for the Arts and Sciences Division. For the past 23 years, Tammy served as administrative assistant/ attendance secretary in the Tammy Krush Stevens Point School District in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. She also was the assistant athletic director assistant at Ben Franklin Junior High School from 2015 until 2020.

Tammy holds an associate degree in hotel restaurant management and food sciences from Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. She resides in Anderson.

Congratulations, Sharon Yarbrough Sharon Yarbrough, Comprehensive Studies math lecturer, received the Vicki Kelly Adjunct Award at the 2022 National Organization for Student Success Conference (NOSS). This scholarship is intended to assist in defraying expenses to the NOSS conference.

Dr. Carolyn Walker Serves As Symposium Judge

CCE Receives NCCET Exemplary Program Award

Pictured with Sharon Yarbrough, left, is Denise Lujan, NOSS president.

Dr. Carolyn Walker, Business Technology department head, served as a judge at the 18th Annual SC Upstate Research Symposium held at USC Upstate on April 8. Her judging assignments were in the areas of Education and Service Learning and Community Engagement.

The symposium provides a forum where both faculty and students from colleges and universities across the region can interact to discuss and share information regarding their research, Dr. Carolyn Walker scholarly and/or creative works.

The Corporate and Community Education Division’s Real Estate Professional Sales Training program received the National Council for Continuing Education Training (NCCET) 2021 Exemplary Program award.

TCTC was among the four colleges nationwide honored by NCCET recently. The Real Estate Professional Training program was distinguished for being a leader in workforce development.

Since July 2018, instructor Samantha Chrestensen has taught 174 students in the real estate program, which includes two courses: Real Estate First-Year Sales and Advanced Principles in Real Estate.

NCCET identified outstanding programs from across the country that directly aligned with the three-tiered mission of the organization. Winners must either provide new and innovative staff development capability, or introduce new curriculum for an evolving workforce, or provide a new source of revenue for the school.

Amy Borders Is Phi Theta Kappa Advisor of the Year English instructor Amy Borders, who also serves as the faculty advisor for Alpha Zeta Beta, TCTC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa honor society, is the 2022 Advisor of the Year. She was honored at the April 20 All-State Academic Team ceremony for her excellence and commitment to the Phi Theta Kappa program and students.

Amy Borders

Pictured from left are Dr. Rick Cothran, dean of the Corporate and Community Education Division; Dr. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie, vice president for academic affairs and workforce development; instructor Samantha Chrestensen; Tessa Corthan, training coordinator; and Sandra Strickland, training and development director.

Oconee Campus Hosts Community Event TCTC hosted a community event March 29 at the Oconee Campus to provide a targeted introduction to the College, along with technical education and technical career opportunities for the Hispanic community in Oconee County.

For several months, the College has been working with Walhalla City Council Member Saria Melendez and members of the City of Walhalla Diversity and Inclusion Committee on various direct communication/outreach activities to educate individuals about what TCTC can do for them.

President DeHay is pictured talking with potential students and their families at the open house at the Oconee Campus.

Around 40 individuals attended the March 29 event.

March/April 2022 • 11

PGA Tour Group Sponsors Team for MOC Golf Tournament A happenstance conversation between a TCTC faculty member and a PGA tour group representative led to a student team sponsorship in the April 7 Men of Color (MOC) golf tournament. To pay tribute to one of their own who suddenly lost his life several years ago, the organization also made a donation to the TCTC Foundation.

Business Instructor and Men of Color Committee Member August Johnson had no idea his conversation with Sheri Haney, event liaison for the PGA Tour’s Korn Ferry Tour, would lead to the organization’s support of the TCTC MOC golf tournament held at Southern Oaks Golf Course in Easley.

“We were impressed and touched by the passion we received from our meeting with August,” said Jeff Thomas, golf professional. Haney and Thomas work with the Korn Ferry Tour, a small group on the PGA tour that handles scoring and operations at Korn Ferry Tour events throughout the U.S., Bahamas, Panama and Columbia. The Korn Ferry Charities registered to play in the MOC golf tournament and asked that August select four students

to represent their team based on criteria that he and TCTC outline. They also will invite these four students to join them for a few hours at the BMW Charity Pro Am in early June. The Korn Ferry Charities also has committed to a donation to the TCTC Foundation in memory of their dear friend and colleague Dennis (Zinky) Zinkoni, who died of a pulmonary embolism at age 55.

The Korn Ferry tour group works out of a large tractor trailer rig they call ‘The Truck’ and they travel around helping local organizations run official tournaments, most of which are charity driven. “We established the Truck Charities shortly after the passing of Zinky,” said Thomas. “Part of our mission at The Truck is to impact and assist many different groups throughout our journey.”

“We are excited to be a sponsor of the Men of Color golf tournament and especially the TCTC Men of Color scholarship.

We look forward to the event, its future and its ability to bring students, staff and the community together in such a positive way,” said Haney.

above:

above: TCTC Men of Color student participants pose for a photo at the

Brian Smith, assistant dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences and a member of the Men of Color committee, left, presented firstplace plaques to tournament winners Warren Posey, Bill Eakin, Shawn Graves and Leon Hunt.

below: TCTC Police Chief Marcus Guess played in the tournament.

12 • CONNECTION

inaugural gold tournament. below: Alumnus Caleb

Allen, left, who was a volunteer for the day, talks with Chris King, a partner with King Kozlarek Attorneys-at-Law, a sponsor of the event.

Men of Color Golf Tournament Nets $10,000

High School Students Complete Manufacturing Works Program

The TCTC inaugural Men of Color (MOC) golf tournament held April 7 netted more than $10,000. “We are well on our way to endowing a scholarship to ensure a legacy for students of color at Tri-County Technical College,” said MOC committee member Dr. Laneika Musalini.

One of the tournament sponsors, PGA Tour’s Korn Ferry Tour sponsored a student team. The Korn Ferry Charities, The Truck, also will invite these students to join them for a few hours at the BMW Charity Pro Am in early June.

• Brian Smith

College officials and business and industry partners gathered March 28 to celebrate the eight Anderson County high school students who successfully completed the Manufacturing Works program that was piloted this semester.

Manufacturing Works is a registered pre-apprenticeship with Apprenticeship Carolina and supported by Heather Helble, TCTC youth apprenticeship coordinator. To be a registered preapprenticeship, corporate sponsors are required. Arthrex and First Quality supported the program.

Over the last six weeks, these seniors, who were currently not planning on attending college in the fall, had the opportunity to gain technical skills while exploring careers in manufacturing through this program.

Each student earned an OSHA 10 card and a yellow belt in six sigma, learned technical skills that are useful in today’s manufacturing environment and were introduced to the fundamentals of lean manufacturing. They also practiced their employability skills during interviews with Arthrex and First Quality.

“They are ready for the next step—an apprenticeship, a job or more education at TCTC,” said Jennifer Hulehan, dean of academic and career foundations.

“Of the eight completers, three have started taking the steps to enroll in fall classes at Tri-County. One student has been accepted to another college and two received and accepted job offers (one from First Quality, the other from Arthrex).

Tuition funding came from the South Carolina Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Initiative grant. A participation stipend was funded by the Tri-County Technical College Foundation, the S.C. Dept of Commerce, and the Development Corporation of Anderson County.

The program was developed by the Academic and Career Foundations team led by Hulehan. The program instructors were Melinda Hoover, Berdina Hill and Ken Fletcher.

Last year a scholarship was established specifically for men of color matriculating at TCTC. The initial funding for the scholarship was through two bakes sales which raised $2,500. This year the MOC scholarship will be awarded to two deserving male students of color who may struggle with barriers to education.

The Men of Color (MOC) Committee is comprised of administrators, faculty and staff. The goal is to educate, motivate, inspire, and empower these minority students and to let them know they have a place at Tri-County Technical College.

To donate go to TCTC.edu/give and select MOC scholarships as your designation.

Manufacturing Works graduates pose with TCTC instructors.

Tournament Sponsors • King Kozlarek Attorneysat-Law, who contributed at the Honorable Thurgood Marshall level of $2,500 • Blue Heron • Great Waters Golf Course • City of Clemson • Sweet Canaan Church • Tri State Golf Group • Amici Easley • Gregory’s Boutique • Steve Goforth/Cross Greek Golf Club • Bojangles of Western NC • McKinney Dodge • Pepsi/Gatorade

• Taylor Made Adidas • PGA/The Truck • State Farm Ken Rowland • Dixon Golf • Galaxy Golf/Dick’s Sporting Goods • Carson Services • James Whitfield • Skin’s Hotdogs • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. • Dr. Anthony Guiseppi‑Elie • Publix • Mr. & Mrs. JT Boseman • Attorney John Crawford • Mr. William Jones

March/April 2022 • 13

Seminar Focuses on Steps to Success Students in the Business Management programs got valuable real-life advice from local employers on the do’s and don’ts of interviewing skills and workplace behavior at an annual seminar sponsored by the Business Management Advisory Committee.

The Steps to Success 2022 session topics included a panel of alumni who talked about their experiences as students and the importance of adopting the skills they learned at TCTC, such as adaptability, accountability, and building a network.

Many students are nearing graduation and gearing up for the interviewing process, said Denise Bailey, chair of the Business Management advisory committee and principal, business systems consulting practice leader for Elliot Davis in Greenville who taught a class on soft skills in the workplace. Bailey also is a 2004 alumna of our Accounting program.

Another session dealt with how to be successful in a virtual environment.

Alumni who participated in the panel discussion were Doug Stephens, who holds three degrees from TCTC, as well as bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southern Wesleyan University and is a physical analyst for Education and Human Development at Clemson University; Caleb Allen, who holds two degrees from TCTC and a bachelor’s degree in human resources from Anderson University, and is talent acquisition partner/ university engagement for TD SYNNEX in Greenville; Vickie Robinson, an administrative office technology graduate, who is an administrative specialist for the Arts and Sciences Division; Lucia Romanchenko, a 2021 accounting graduate who is an accountant at Gergun Transportation in Honea Path; and Ronicka Craig, a business management major, who is branch manager for Spero Financial in Anderson.

Robinson, who worked as a work study in various departments on campus while a student, said her experience served as “my stepping stone.”

While a student, Craig said she benefitted from career services workshops on how to prepare a resume and interviewing skills. “I never applied for a job that I didn’t get,” she said.

Stephens reiterated that career services serves as a valuable resource that continues even after graduation. “You are still able to use those services. Start now building those interviewing skills,” he said.

Allen urged the participants to find a mentor if they don’t already have one. “That really helped me. As I became more interactive with faculty and staff, we talked and I let them know my goals and career aspirations.”

Others highlighted faculty and staff who served as mentors.

Robinson singled out Beverly Vickery, administrative office technology instructor. “Beverly helped me and guided me,” she said.

Craig and Allen cited Dr. Jackie Blakely, dean of the Business and Public Services Division, as a mentor. “Jackie served as a role model for professionalism. She was amazing and someone to look up to. I remember my instructors vividly,” she said. “I knew them personally and had conversations with them. They assisted me professionally and were there for one-on-one conversations.”

Romanchenko coined a line that drew a laugh from the group.

“If your grades start falling, your instructors start calling,” she said. “They pushed you to be as successful as you can be. They are there to help you succeed.”

“Building those relationships is important,” added Stephens.

“Keep your instructors in your network after graduation.”

Denise Bailey, chair of the Business Management advisory committee and principal, business systems consulting practice leader for Elliot Davis in Greenville, right, talks with Jayda Vaughn about setting up a LinkedIn account. Bailey is a 2004 alumna of our Accounting program.

Alumni panelists are pictured from left: Doug Stephens, a physical analyst for Education and Human Development at Clemson University; Vickie Robinson, an administrative specialist for TCTC’s Arts and Sciences Division; Lucia Romanchenko, an accountant at Gergun Transportation in Honea Path; Ronicka Craig, branch manager for Spero Financial in Anderson; and Caleb Allen, talent acquisition partner/university engagement for TD SYNNEX in Greenville.

14 • CONNECTION

Alumna Says Botany Instructor/Mentor Influenced Her Life Last year Mary Anna Vargo horticulture/botany. We had a was seated in her home office, lot of discussions about career reflecting on her educational options. She recommended I journey that led to a recent job transfer to Clemson University. offer with Clemson University as I am so lucky I found what I a consumer horticulture agent in love,” said Vargo, who earned the Greenville County Extension undergraduate and graduate office. degrees in horticulture at “I thought about the Clemson. beginning and I immediately When she began thought of Beverly Thompson interviewing for jobs after (her botany teacher). I reached graduation, she knew she out by email and told her my wanted a position where news. I’m where I need to be she could be creative. She Alumna Mary Anna Vargo, left, and Beverly Thompson, her former because of her and I’m grateful interviewed for the extension botany instructor for her,” said Vargo. agent job and was hired. “This She wrote in her email: “I have come a long way in my is such a fun job. It feels very right,” she said. educational journey and whenever I look back at the most “Every day is different,” she said. “I can’t imagine doing influential people in my life, you are definitely one of them. So, anything else. I hope to have the same effect on other people’s thank you very much for being so kind and encouraging in class lives as Beverly had on mine.” and for offering that botany course with only three students! It Thompson said, “It absolutely made my day when I received was such a huge deal to me, and it still is,” said Vargo, now 28.

Mary’s email It was affirmation that this is why I’m here. It’s why In 2015, 19-year-old Vargo, who had just completed a year of I do what I do—to give students the knowledge they need to studies at the College of Charleston, was seated in a Botany 101 move forward. When you love what you teach it is very easy to class, unaware at the time just how influential the course, and be infectious. I just knew that Mary had the spark and love for Thompson, would be on her life and her career. plants like I do, and that a degree in horticulture or botany would She was one of just three girls who were enrolled in the class be a perfect fit. Those girls in that class made teaching fun and taught by Thompson as part of a then-new articulation agreement exciting. I am so honored to be a part of the journey.”

TCTC has with Clemson University’s biological sciences department.

A Piedmont native, Vargo spent her high school years homeschooled by her mother and took dual enrollment classes at TCTC in preparation for a four-year degree and a career in (continued from page 1) the sciences. She took marine biology classes at the College of Dr. Heavner has won multiple awards for his Charleston but discovered “it wasn’t the science I wanted. I knew leadership, research, and advocacy. Most recently, I was in the wrong major,” she recalls.

Prisma Health recognized him with the Award for She returned home to Piedmont, where she enrolled in TCTC Excellence in Nursing for his work in response to the and began pursuing an associate in science degree full time and pandemic, guiding efforts to capture and track data at no cost, thanks to Lottery Tuition Assistance. on COVID-19 and helping to lead the Greenville mass “I had no clue about a career choice. I just wanted to learn vaccination site. Dr. Heavner’s registry has supported more. I was enthralled by the world of plants once I took Biology more than 85 research studies and continues to collect 102 and I was hungry to learn more. After speaking to my biology data; the vaccination site administered more than professor, she mentioned Thompson sometimes taught a botany 200,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine. course. I contacted her about offering it … and I lucked out, and Dr. Heavner is an active member of the upstate she taught it the next semester! I really do not know if I would be community and serves on the board of directors for where I am today if it wasn’t for her offering that course,” she said.

864Pride, a non-profit focused on reducing barriers to “The lecture and labs changed the course for me,” said healthcare access for gender and sexual minorities. He Vargo. “It was the best class ever! She made it so fun. She resides in Simpsonville. became my role model. I didn’t even know there was a career in

Commencement Speaker

March/April 2022 • 15

Clemson Downs Supports CNA Scholarship Clemson Downs made a $1,500 donation to TCTC’s Foundation to continue its support of a full scholarship for a certified nurse aide student in Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties.

James Hill, executive director of Clemson Downs, second from left, presented President DeHay, third from left, with the check. Also pictured are, from left, Grayson Kelly, vice president for institutional advancement and business relations at Tri-County; and Carolyn Stewart, healthcare program director for TCTC’s Corporate and Community Education Division.

SNA Hosts First Clinical Expo Tri-County held its first Clinical Expo on April 5. “It was a huge success,” said Celeste Mendez, TCTC nursing instructor. Fifteen clinical facilities from across the upstate came to talk to CNA, LPN and RN students about their current and future job opportunities, internships and scholarships. “The students who attended the expo also were encouraged to bring canned goods to support a local charity and as a result, we were able to donate hundreds of non-perishable goods to a local children’s home,” Mendez added.

Laura Thompson, a 2005 alumna of TCTC’s associate in arts program and former TCTC staff member, right, was among the attendees at the TCTC Student Nurses Association Clinical Expo. Thompson, who is human resources manager at Patrick B. Harris Psychiatric Hospital, went on to earn a B.S. degree in HR management/personnel administration at Limestone University.

She is pictured talking with nursing student Sierra Barrs.

TCTC Is Sponsor of AnMed Health Connect 2022 TCTC was a sponsor of AnMed Health’s Connect 2022, an annual diversity, equity, and inclusion symposium with Anderson University and community members held April 5.

At the event, speakers talked about diversity and inclusion in the Upstate and this year, organizers honored the five known lynching victims in Anderson County.

Juana Slade, chief diversity officer at AnMed Health, said the goal is to improve equality in the workplace, health and education.

From left are (front row) Hannah Fakoormejad, Dr. Laneika Musalini, Ingryd Masters and Mia Tensley, and (back row) Brian Smith, Ross Hughes, Rodney Estrada, Dr. Jackie Blakley, Dr. Beverly McAdams and Marianne Yohannan.

16 • CONNECTION

Students Make Connections at Campus Career Fairs TCTC’s Career and Employability Resources (CES) department hosted its annual Career Fair March 15 at all community campuses.

In today’s challenging job market, employers are looking to fill positions and grow their workforce. The annual Career Fair is an opportunity for students and soon-to-be graduates to talk about job opportunities with recruiters and managers from business, manufacturing and healthcare and to develop a network of career contacts.

Adam Paige, director of CES, reports that 35 employers and 400 students participated across all five campuses. Ten employers conducted on-site interviews and extended second interview opportunities to students.

Also, representatives were on hand to talk about apprenticeship partnerships as a pathway to employment while students are in college.

Students visit the Arthrex booth to learn about the company and job opportunities.

Alan Johnson, senior technical trainer at the Robert Bosch Corporation in Anderson who also oversees the Technical Scholars program, far left, poses with the company’s technical scholars, Ben Colvin, second from left and John Luke Barker, far right, along with David Cross and Kim Nelms from Bosch.

Students at ITC

Outstanding Students Honored The annual student awards ceremony was held April 6 to celebrate excellence and to honor outstanding students in our academic programs.

Tommy Brister was honored as TCTC’s Outstanding Associate Degree Nursing Student. Brister spent most of his career as an FAA air traffic control specialist and retired in 2015. Following his retirement, his daughter, Lindsey, a graduate of our associate degree nursing program, encouraged him to enroll to train for a second career. At age 62, Tommy became a TCTC student and will graduate in May. He has been hired to work at AnMed Health.

Pictured with Tommy Brister, middle, are Dr. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie, vice president of academic affairs and workforce development, and Kristen Lundkovsky, program coordinator for nursing.

March/April 2022 • 17

Power Line Worker Students Showcase Skills at Rodeo Ten students who completed the Level I Power Line Worker certification class participated in a rodeo on March 31, where they showcased their skills for potential employers

who are looking to fill these in-demand jobs across the state.

Graduates are pictured with instructor James Guthrie and Ron Bryant, training director, after receiving their certificates.

Celebrating National Lineworkers Appreciation Day (April 19) April 18 was National Lineworker Appreciation Day. Representatives from Duke Energy and TCTC met at the Anderson Campus to discuss the career of the electrical lineworker and how to learn more about training opportunities offered by TCTC’s Corporate and Community Education Division.

Duke Energy lineworkers were on hand to discuss the job of a “lineman” and demonstrate the equipment and some of the tasks they are responsible for every day on the job.

As Duke Energy modernizes the grid and integrates new technologies to better serve customers, the need for a skilled workforce is rapidly growing. Lineworkers play an integral role in a more efficient, more reliable digital grid. below: Justin

Pressley, a 2020 graduate of the Level I Power Line Worker class who works as a distribution lineman for Duke Energy, was interviewed by local television reporters.

18 • CONNECTION

below: Recent graduate Jordan

Faust demonstrates skills learned in the Level I Power Line Worker certificate class.

Welding Students Receive Five Awards at State Competition

Vision, Mission, Values and Commitments

Congratulations to our welding students who took home five awards at the Annual South Carolina Technical College Statewide Welding Competition held April 18 at the Industrial Technology Center. They won three first-place awards and two second-place honors in six categories. Twenty-five competitors representing five technical colleges competed. The Colleges included TCTC, Horry Georgetown Technical College, Midlands Technical College, Piedmont Technical College and Spartanburg Community College.

Thanks to premier sponsors TCTC; Coca Cola; Anderson County Economic Development; The Peoples Bank; and Sulzer. Also thanks to Airgas National Welders; Grainger; Lakeside Sheet and Machine; Lincoln Electric; Miller; Linde Gas and Equipment, Inc., Southern Educational Systems, Inc.; TTI/Ryobi; and Western Welder.

Vision Passionate people transforming lives and building strong communities one student at a time.

Mission Tri-County Technical College provides students an exceptional and affordable learning experience that improves their quality of life. The College advances economic development in the tri-county region by preparing a highly-skilled workforce.

Values • Integrity: We lead by example and are steadfast in upholding high ethical standards.

• Respect: We engage with one another in a manner that promotes civility, trust, openness and understanding.

• Learning: We promote a growth mindset and use what we learn to deliver a transformative experience for our students and employees.

• Collaboration: We achieve more when we work together, especially when we bring diverse groups of people together to solve problems and generate change.

• Innovation: We encourage creative ideas that lead to positive outcomes for our students, our employees and our community.

• Diversity and Inclusion: We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community that fosters a sense of belonging where every individual feels welcome and valued.

Commitments

Russell Kuemmerer, left, was one of five TCTC students who received an award. Welding/CNC Department Head Paul Phelps is pictured presenting Russell the first-place award in category 6 (GTAW 3” pipe 6G, stainless steel).

• To Our Students: Provide a dynamic teaching and learning experience in which every student has an opportunity to grow, succeed and improve their quality of life.

• To Our Employees: Cultivate a workplace that honors and promotes our values.

• To Our Community: Serve as a solutions provider in meeting the workforce needs of the tri-county region.

BASF Partnership (continued from page 5)

BASF Seneca Site Director Elba Lizardi took the time to single out Sanders and Claudia Spearman for their contributions to the program. “We are excited to kick off cohort number two and we look forward to welcoming our third cohort as well,” she said.

March/April 2022 • 19

P.O. Box 587 • Pendleton, S.C. 29670

In Memoriam We were saddened to learn of the passing of former Medical Laboratory Technology Department Head Dallas Jones, who led the program for 36 years until her retirement in 2006. She passed away April 11 at AnMed Health Medical Center.

She joined Tri-County in 1970 to begin a new program, the Certified Laboratory Assistant program, which she headed for two years at Anderson Memorial Hospital before founding the TCTC Medical Laboratory Technology Department. Under her leadership, the program achieved maximum accreditation by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences. The MLT program became fully accredited by the AMA in 1974 and at that time, became the second fully accredited program of its kind in S.C. Doctors and others who make decisions concerning employment of medical lab technicians were always looking to her for well-trained MLT’s.

At her retirement celebration in 2006, her colleague Polly Kay, who assumed the MLT program coordinator position, said it was a privilege to work side by side with Dallas, teaching MLT classes over 16 years. “She loves her students, and she loves her profession. After 36 years at TriCounty, Dallas still loves MLT, and it shows every time she walks in the classroom,” said Kay. In this retirement celebration photo in 2006, Dallas is seen seated on the bench that was a retirement gift from the faculty and staff. The bench was placed on the third floor of the Health/Science building in her honor.

Aliza Lee, Kendra Green Named to All-State Academic Team

Aliza Lee 20 • CONNECTION

Aliza Lee, a university transfer major, and Kendra Green, a mechatronics major, are TCTC’s representatives for the South Carolina 2022 Phi Theta Kappa All-State Academic Team.

Thirty-nine students from 15 technical colleges in the South Carolina Technical College System were recognized April 20 at an awards ceremony in Columbia.

Phi Theta Kappa, a national

honor fraternity for two-year college students, recognizes and encourages scholarship and provides opportunities for the development of leadership skills and service. To be eligible for membership, a student must be enrolled in an associate degree program, must have accumulated 12 hours, and must have achieved and maintained a GPR of at least 3.50.

Alpha Zeta Beta is the name of the local chapter at Tri-County.

Kendra Green