Access Magazine Summer 2017

SUMMER 2017

Move On When Ready Pathways Signing

Six ATC high school graduates continue education at four-year universities

SEE PAGES 16&17 INSIDE

access A PUBLICATION FOR THE ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF ALBANY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

SUMMER 2017

PRESIDENT

Dr. Anthony O. Parker VICE PRESIDENT OF ADMINISTRATION

Kathy Skates

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

Dr. Tanjula Petty

VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDNENTS AFFAIRS & ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT

Barbara Brown

VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dr. Kimberly Lee

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADULT EDUCATION

Linda Coston

VICE PRESIDENT OF THE CENTER FOR BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

Matt Trice

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR CAREER SERVICES

Judy Jimmerson

SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT

Lorraine Alexander

Evera Moye

Baker County Representative Dougherty County Representatives:

Joe Austin, Chair Col. Eric Livingston Ben Barrow Betty White Werhner Washington Dr. David Mosely Neil Lowe

Calhoun County Representative

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS

C.W. Grant

Procter & Gamble

Suzanna MacIntosh

A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Albany Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of color, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, disabled veteran, veteran of the Vietnam era or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). Inquires should be addressed to the VP of Administration, ATC, 229.430.3524 or email kskates@ albanytech.edu.

SB&T Bank

Retired

Lem Griffin

Community Volunteer

Flint River Services

Kirt Phillips

Alfredia Hampton

Glenn Singfield

Ronnie Hinson

Merrill Lynch

ACCESS is a quarterly news magazine published by the Marketing and Public Relations Office at Albany Technical College. Send direct inquiries to Wendy Howell, Executive Director of Marketing & Public Relations, at 229.430.3816 or email whowell@albanytech.edu.

Rhonda Gordon

Terrell County Representative

Cathi Jones

RANDOLPH COUNTY LEARNING CENTER: albanytech.edu

Kuanita Murphy

Randolph County Representative

Celinda Dennison

Emerson Electrical

ONLINE:

Winston Oxford

Lee County Representative

Joe James

DOUGHERTY COUNTY CAMPUS: 229 732.5280

Robert Chester

Early County Representative

FOUNDATION TRUSTEES

Wendy Howell

229 430.3500

Carl Childs, Jr.

Clay County Representative

Artesian Contracting

Katrina Baranko

SB&T Bank

MetroPower

Jim Wilcox

Merle Norman Cosmetics

WALB-Channel 10

Mike Clark

Jeanette McDowell

Interstate Warehousing

Dr. Willie Adams Retired

Joey Magaddino SB&T Bank

Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital

ON THE COVER

Six ATC high school graduates continue education at four-year universities

SEE PAGES 16&17

9/10

SPRING 2017 GRADUATION

2

PRESIDENTIAL PERSPECTIVE

11

3

ATC/CSU PATHWAY SIGNING

4

ATC/ASU PATHWAY SIGNING

INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONS HOPE CAREER

12

5 ATC ASN PROGRAM RECEIVES ACEN ACCREDITATION

6

ATC PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE GRAND OPENING

7

ATC WEBSITE GETS FACELIFT

8

ATC FOUNDATION ROAST 2017

ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT CENTER

13

MEMORIAL DAY 2017

LOOK INSIDE FOR MORE STORIES!

Contents

*

FROM OUR PRESIDENT

DR. ANTHONY O. PARKER

A New Tradition In the late spring, we set a new tradition in the Technical College System of Georgia by holding the very first signing of Move On When Ready high school graduates who were graduating from Albany Tech and moving on to continue their education at four-year universities.

To make it even more momentous, among the six graduates, was Nilkumar “Nil” Patel, Albany Tech’s 2017 Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) student of the year. Nil continued his education this fall at the University of Georgia in the field of engineering.

Just like Nil, all of these students represent excellence, drive, and stamina as they seek to further their education, all attending universities in the great state of Georgia.

We have set the standard and a very fine tradition by beginning this new trend of recognizing our high school students at Albany Tech who don’t stop with their associate degrees, but continue on and go as far as they possibly can. I applaud and am very proud of each and every one of them.

I invite you to check us out online at albanytech.edu, or come to campus for a tour. You will be surprised at all the good things taking place here that ultimately, will make Albany and our community the best it can be.

Thank you for your support of Albany Technical College. Stay tuned for more great news in the late fall when we roll out another edition of ACCESS!

Dr. Anthony O. Parker President

As you peruse this edition of ACCESS, you will discover the best reading as you explore all the great happenings going on right here at Albany Technical College.

2 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

from the President

New Partnership Agreement with

Columbus State University Albany Technical College (ATC) and Columbus State University (CSU) held an articulation agreement signing ceremony on May 15th.

Academic programs included in the agreement included Accounting, Law Enforcement Technology, and Early Childhood Care and Education. Albany Tech students in these programs will now be eligible to transfer to Columbus State to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting, Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice, or Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd) in Early Childhood Education.

This agreement is another example of Albany Tech and the Technical College System of Georgia’s (TCSG) partnership with the University System of Georgia (USG). The objective is to create a seamless transition for technical college students in Georgia to complete an associate’s degree with the technical college and move on to earn a bachelor’s degree with a university within USG. “It is always a great opportunity for our students when we develop pathway agreements with our partnering universities,” said Dr. Tanjula Petty, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Albany Tech. “It is truly awesome, as Columbus State is less than 100 miles from Albany, and for students who do not want to move too far away, they will have the opportunity to transfer their credits from Albany Tech to Columbus State to earn a bachelor’s degree. This will save the students money and time in the long run, which is a win-win for our students.”

To be eligible for the transfer credit, Albany Tech students must be in good academic standing and meet the appropriate admissions requirements to attend Columbus State.

“This partnership signifies the strength of our institutions both in the Technical College System and

the University System,” said Dr. Anthony O. Parker, President of Albany Tech. “We look forward to the new partnership with Columbus State University.”

Last fall, one Albany Tech associate degree graduate, Teraycia Lovett, continued her education at Columbus State. A Move On When Ready (MOWR) student from Dougherty High, Lovett earned her associate’s degree in Electronics Technology with a specialization in Biomedical Instrumentation. She is now a biology major at Columbus State and her career goal is to design

prosthetics.

“We are excited to announce this agreement which begins a new era of opportunities for future CSU students from Albany Technical College on their journey to the next level of their education,” said CSU Interim Provost, Tina Butcher. “We are committed to working with other educational institutions in the region to provide students with innovative programs to assist them in transitioning to a four-year institution, and attaining degrees that prepare them for productive careers.”

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Added Partnership Agreement with

Albany State University

Albany Technical College (ATC) and Albany State University (ASU) have now made it easier for nursing students to continue their education. The institutions held an articulation agreement signing ceremony on July 18th in order to establish a pathway for nursing students who complete an associate of science (ASN) in nursing degree from ATC to be able to earn a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree from ASU. This seamless transition for technical college students in Georgia to complete an associate’s degree and earn a bachelor’s degree with a university is another example of the Technical College System of Georgia’s ongoing partnership with the University System of Georgia.

“It is beneficial to the Albany community for two great institutions to come together and develop a pathway and pipeline to support southwest Georgia in response to the healthcare needs of this community,” said Tanjula Petty, vice president for academic affairs at ATC. “By signing this agreement, we are promoting educational progression to support the healthcare industry and provide our students with a great opportunity to articulate and achieve greater heights in their education and careers.”

“Considering the healthcare needs of Southwest Georgia residents, we are continuously identifying better ways to serve our growing population,” said Tau Kadhi, provost and vice president for academic affairs at ASU. “The signing of this articulation agreement allows us to 4 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

better educate students and develop professionals in the healthcare field for our region and beyond.”

To be eligible for the transfer credit, Albany Tech nursing students must have completed the ASN program with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.80 or better, have achieved the RN license from the National Council of State Board Nursing (NCSBN), and have met the admissions requirements of ASU Those with a GPA of less than 2.80 and who also meet the admissions requirements of Albany State University, will be considered for admission on a space available basis.

“This partnership signifies the strength of our institutions both in the Technical College System and the University System,” said Anthony O. Parker, president of Albany Tech. “We look forward to adding this program

to our list of pathway partnerships already in place with Albany State University.”

“The signing of an articulation agreement for the nursing program is a step in the right direction for both Albany State University and Albany Technical College,” said Art Dunning, president of Albany State University.

“We cannot make our region work without an educated workforce. This hand-in-glove partnership between Albany’s higher education institutions will greatly benefit residents eagerly seeking an easier 2-year to 4-year degree pathway.”

Albany State University and Albany Technical College currently have articulation agreements in criminal justice, technology management, accounting, supply chain and logistics and fire sciences.

Albany Tech’s Nursing Program Earns

National ACEN Accreditation Albany Technical College’s Associate of Science (ASN) in Nursing program recently received accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), which accredits all types of nursing programs including master’s, baccalaureate, associate’s, and diploma.

Albany Tech’s ASN program launched in 2013 with the first cohort of students graduating in 2015 with a 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX. The second class graduated in the fall of 2016, also with a 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX. The program continues to gain popularity in the community as nearly 100 students are expected to enroll this fall.

“A distinction of this magnitude demonstrates that our graduates are well-prepared for the nursing profession, while making it known that our program is a dedicated and supportive partner in nursing education, collaborating with administrators, faculty, students, community partners, and volunteers to continuously strengthen the nursing occupation at the local and national level,” said Dr. Latrona Lanier, Chair of the ASN program at Albany Tech.

Earlier this year, Albany Tech’s ASN program was ranked number one by a ranking conducted by RegisteredNursing.org. The ranking was based on the student pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam, which is used by all state boards of nursing across the United States to help assess a student’s competency and is required for licensure. In Georgia, 40 schools were analyzed and only 10

schools ranked, with Albany Tech leading the ranking.

“I am proud and celebrate this accomplishment with the Nursing faculty and staff for achieving this milestone,” said Dr. Tanjula Petty, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Albany Tech. “All of their work and dedication in achieving accreditation with the ACEN

demonstrates ATC’s commitment to providing a quality nursing program for students at ATC and for the healthcare community in and around Albany. This is just one example of the standard of excellence that ATC strives to meet and we continue to be committed to the delivery of quality nursing education.”

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Bridging ATC’s Future Albany Technical College officially cut the ribbon on a new pedestrian bridge adjoining the east and west side of South Slappey Boulevard on June 28th.

Quest for the bridge began in 2009 when Dr. Willie Adams was Mayor of the City of Albany. Albany Tech approached the City of Albany for SPLOST funds to complete the project. SPLOST funds in the amount of $1.6 million were allocated in 2013 and the winning contractor from the bid was The Macallan Group in Marietta, Georgia with work beginning in February of 2016.

Three factors contributed to the project: campus expansion, safety, and providing a gateway for Albany Tech and the City of Albany. The current arrangement of commercial businesses, other state and city/county agencies, and county schools prevents any further growth of the Albany Tech campus on the east side of South Slappey Boulevard. With Albany Tech’s existing Manufacturing Technology Center on the west side, the relocation of other businesses taking place as well, the pedestrian bridge will pave the way for expansion for the college.

With more than 100 students currently crossing South Slappey Boulevard going to and from classes on any given day from the Manufacturing Technology Center on the west side over to the main campus on the east side, safety has become an issue over the years.

The bridge will provide the infrastructure for safety now and in the future as the college expands and enrollment increases.

The bridge has also provided a gateway for the college and for the City of Albany alike. With travelers coming into Albany, as well as Albany major industry being lo6 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

cated in close proximity to the Albany Tech campus, the bridge will provide an attractive gateway to commerce and higher education.

21“The bridge will not only allow for more campus

expansion, but most importantly, will provide safety to those crossing from the west side to the east side of campus each day,” said Dr. Anthony O. Parker, President of Albany Tech.

albanytech.edu

AlbanyTech.edu gets

Facelift

Albany Technical College (ATC) officially launched a new and improved website on May 3rd.

The new site will allow users to more easily locate academic programs and enhances uses for those with disabilities.

Designed with streamlined content and more with the student user in mind, one of the primary features of the new site is streamlined menu structure. By condensing a long list of academic programs utilized on the previous site, the new site offers an “Academics” link where prospective students can easily access not just programs, but all programs within a division. For example, many potential students might want to pursue a career in the healthcare technology field, but are not sure what area. With the “Academics” menu, they can click on the Healthcare Technology programs link to access all healthcare programs offered at ATC. Another important factor with the design of the new site was taking more into account those site visitors with disabilities. With close captioning and photo caption features added, along with accessibility of the menus, anyone can easily navigate through the site to access the information needed. The site design also responsive to be versatile on any platform – desktop, mobile, or tablet.

In an effort to address accessibility concerns and to continue to improve the design of the site to further promote ATC’s branding, the office of Marketing and Public Relations redesigns the site every three to five years. access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017 | 7

ATC Foundation Roast Honoring

Karla Heath-Sands The Albany Foundation held its annual “Roast” event on March 31st, along with a Silent Auction in the Kirkland Conference Center. This year’s honored guest was Karla Heath-Sands, Anchor for WALB-News 10.

“Roasters” for this year’s event included: The Honorable Victoria Darrisaw, Dougherty County State Court; Michelle Polk, Retired, Marine Corps Logistics Command; Cade Fowler, Anchor, WALB-News 10; Sandra Parker, Retired, Lee County School System; and Yolanda Amadeo, Meteorologist, WALB-News 10.

Karla Heath-Sands has been at home on stage for most of her life. The Brunswick, Georgia native graduated in 1984 from Mercer University (Macon) where she performed with the Mercer Singers. She has been a participant in the Miss America Pageant system where as Miss Macon, she placed fourth runner-up to Miss Georgia 1982 and as Miss Brunswick-Golden Isles 1985, she placed second runner-up.

Heath-Sands has performed on stage at Six Flags Over Georgia in the Crystal Pistol (1989), was a semi-finalist for Star Search (competition held in Atlanta), and was selected as a Quarterfinalist for the 1997 SAVANNAH ON STAGE International Vocal Competition. She has also performed as a guest soloist with the Macon Symphony Orchestra, the Atlanta Pops Orchestra, the Albany Symphony and Opera Albany and was invited to sing the National Anthem in Kurobe, Japan as part of the Cherry Blossom Festival (April 8 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

13-23) in 1998. She has appeared on BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel Hour and has been a featured singer with the Bob Cummings Band for almost 30-plus years.

Beginning her journalism career as a Weathercaster and Community Service Director at WMAZ-TV in Macon, Heath-Sands is now co-anchoring WALB-TV’s “Today In Georgia,” and WALB-News 10’s 12:00 News.

She was also selected as the Georgia Association of Broadcasters’ “GABBY” winner for Best On-Air Personality.

She was also King Day “Dream Award” recipient in 2011 and was recognized by the 100 Black Men of Albany, GA for outstanding service in the Media Field in 1999.

Heath-Sands is also involved in her community as a former trustee for Girls, Inc. of Albany, former Board member for Albany Technical College, member of Albany Chapter of Links, Inc., Life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., former Board of Advisors member for The State Botanical Garden of Georgia, and is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Humanities Council. She is a member of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Albany, GA. Having emceed numerous pageants and events, Heath-Sands has also served as a judge for Miss Georgia Preliminaries and Junior Miss Programs in Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee.

She is the only child of Martha Heath Johnson of Brunswick and is married to the Honorable W. Louis Sands and

is the mother of two, Billye L. Sands and David H. Sands.

All proceeds from the Roast went to benefit Albany Tech students in need of financial assistance through the Albany Tech Foundation.

Congrats!

Spring 2017 Grads

Spring Commencement Keynote Speaker: Lt. Gen. William B. Caldwell, IV Albany Technical College held Spring 2017 Commencement Exercises on April 27th at the Albany Civic Center.

Nearly 110 students received associate degrees, almost 300 diplomas, and almost 800 technical certificates of credit. Over 35 students received their General Education Development (GED). In addition, nearly 60 students walked with various honors, including American Criminal Justice Association Club, Ambassadors, Engineering Club (E-Club), Honors with Distinction, National Technical Honors Society (NTHS), Phi Beta Lambda (PBL), Presidential Scholar, SkillsUSA, Student Fellowship for Christians (SFC), Student Government Association (SGA), and General Education Development (GED). These students were honored at the college’s Honor’s Day program held prior to graduation.

Keynote speaker for the ceremony was Lt. General William B. Caldwell, IV, who is currently serving as

the 21st President of Georgia Military College. Commissioned as an Infantry Officer from the United States Military Academy at West Point in June 1976 with a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Caldwell continued on to earn his master’s degree from the United States Naval Postgraduate School and from the School for Advanced Military Studies at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. Later, he attended the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University as a Senior Service College Fellow. He was also selected to serve as a White House Fellow – one of the most prestigious fellowships in our nation.

In his almost 13 years as a General Officer, Caldwell served at the highest levels of the U.S. Army. Most notably as Commanding General of the 82nd Airborne Division, Commanding General of the NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Combined Arms Center and Fort Leavenworth, and Commander of United States Army North (Fifth Army). He also served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Effects, and as spokesperson for the Multi-National Force – Iraq during Operation Enduring Freedom. His combat deployments include Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm,

Operation Just Cause (Panama) and Operation Uphold Democracy (Haiti), Iraq and Afghanistan.

Caldwell also served as Executive Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Senior Military Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense, Deputy Director for Operations for the United States Pacific Command, and Assistant Division Commander, 25th Infantry Division. He has also received numerous awards and recognitions, both domestic and foreign, during his 37 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Army and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

Among the graduates for Thursday’s commencement were six Move On When Ready (MOWR) high school students graduating with associate’s degrees who will continue their education at four-year universities in pursuit of bachelor’s degrees. Nilkumar “Nil” Patel, who earned his associate’s degree in Electronics and Computer Engineering. He was valedictorian of his class at Terrell County High School and was also the 2017 Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) winner for Albany Technical College. He is continuing his education at the University of Georgia this fall.

Other finalists in the GOAL program for Albany Tech this year who also graduated include Jamekia Collins, Continued on page 10 access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017 | 9

Congrats!

Continued from page 9

Law Enforcement Technology graduate, who is attending Georgia Southern University in the fall, and Tonyari Scott, Electronics and Engineering Technology graduate, who is attending Georgia Institute of Technology this fall. King La’Keit Randall, a Culinary Arts graduate from Westover High, is continuing his education at the Culinary Institute of Atlanta in the fall. Brittany Hamilton and Tylexus Robinson, both students from Monroe High School and graduates in Albany Tech’s Law Enforcement Technology program, will both be continuing their education in the fall at Fort Valley State University.

Another notable graduate for this spring’s ceremony was Elouise Williams, Albany Technical College’s Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education (EAGLE) Adult Education student for 2017. Williams is a 50-year-old non-traditional student who came back to school after being out for 32 years. She dropped out of school in the eighth grade when she became pregnant and after her children were grown, wanted to pursue her dream of being a teacher. Not only did she enroll in the Adult Education program to obtain her GED, but through the Ability to Benefit (AtB) grant, she was able to dual enroll in the Early Childhood Care and Education diploma program. She will graduate with her diploma Thursday evening. She plans to enroll in Albany Tech’s Hotel/Restaurant/Tourism Management degree program this fall.

Albany native, Khalif Collier, was homeschooled for 15 years before deciding to pursue his GED. He enrolled in Albany Tech’s Adult Education program and received his GED in just three months. After being enrolled in the Masonry program for a few semesters, the 17-year-old decided to compete in SkillsUSA. Albany Tech’s Masonry instructor, Clifford Singleton, prepared him for the competition right up until the Atlanta finals. Collier successfully completed the competition earning the silver medal, which was second 10 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

place. Collier plans to work with his father, who is a contractor, after graduation.

Also among the graduates for Thursday, were nearly 20 students graduates in Albany Tech’s brand new Industrial Operations Technician certificate program. The new program was started last fall in partnership with the AlbanyDougherty Economic Development Commission’s Industry Roundtable, including industries such as P&G, MillerCoors, Pfizer, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, SASCO Chemical, Tara Foods, and others. These first graduates are now eligible to compete for careers with these area industries.

INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONS TECHNICAL CERTIFICATE

HOPE Career Grant

Providing Additional Financial Resources for ATC’s Industrial Operations Students Albany Technical College’s Industrial Operations Technician program has been added to the Governor’s HOPE Career Grant. The grant, formerly known as the Strategic Industries Workforce Development Grant (SWIG), enables certain technical education students in Georgia to receive free tuition.

The original grant was implemented in 2013 for three key industries and will benefit qualified students who enroll in the following 12 program areas: certified engineer assistant, commercial truck driving, computer programming, computer technology, diesel equipment technology, early childhood care and education, health science, industrial maintenance, movie production/set design, practical nursing, precision manufacturing, and welding and joining technology. Industrial Operations Technician was added to the list and Albany Tech is currently the only technical college in the system to offer the program.

“We continuously seek ways to help our Georgia students attain a high-quality, affordable education that leads to a productive career,” said Georgia Governor Nathan Deal. “This grant is an important piece in our tool kit of educational assets, and helps students prepare to enter those industries in the state that have the greatest workforce needs.”

Albany Tech’s Center for Business Solutions began the Industrial Operations Technician program last fall in collaboration with the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission’s Industry Roundtable, to satisfy needs of local industries and allow a way for potential employees to gain the skills necessary for priority

employment with these local industries.

This past spring, almost 20 students were the first graduates of the new program. With almost 30 enrolled in classes this summer and more expected for fall semester, the program continues to grow. Students in the program are exposed to a variety of manufacturing principles, including Lean Six Sigma, operations management, industrial mechanics and interpersonal skills.

The program also aligns the needs of Albany-Dougherty County’s industries with the training opportunities available, which further strengthen the local and regional labor force and allow it to be more attractive to both prospective and existing industries.

To receive the HOPE Career Grant, students must first qualify for the HOPE Grant, which applies to diplomas and certificates only, rather than the HOPE Scholarship, which applies to associate and bachelor’s degrees. The HOPE Grant is available for students of any age. A student can attend college part-time and does not have to have a specific high school GPA, but must maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA after enrolling in college.

The HOPE Career Grant is also available to recipients of the Zell Miller Grant, which, in addition to HOPE Grant requirements, stipulates that students must maintain at least a cumulative 3.5 GPA at the end of each college term.

For Albany Tech’s Industrial Operations Technician program, the HOPE Career Grant will pay up to $500 per semester, which is used to pay tuition, fees and book cost not covered by the HOPE and/or Zell Miller Grant.

While the HOPE Career Grant opportunities are open

for any qualified student pursuing a certificate or diploma at a public college in Georgia, students within the Technical College System of Georgia have been the main beneficiaries. The number of certificates or diplomas in these 12 areas awarded to technical college students in the 2016 academic year was 16,514, up from 11,289 in 2013.

For more information about the Industrial Operations Technician program, contact Albany Tech’s Center for Business Solutions at 229.430.3867 or email cbs@ albanytech.edu.

For Albany Tech’s Industrial Operations Technician program, the HOPE Career Grant will pay up to $500 per semester, which is used to pay tuition, fees and book cost not covered by the HOPE and/or Zell Miller Grant.

access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017 | 11

Advisement Center

New Academic Advisement Center Provides Additional Resources for ATC Students Albany Technical College held a ribbon cutting for the all new Academic Advisement Center on April 20th in the Nathaniel Cross Healthcare Technology Center.

With Albany Tech’s continued commitment to providing professional services to all students to ensure they receive professional assistance in navigating through curricula and college requirements that lead to graduation and placement, the college wanted to create a more customeroriented approach and focus on continuously improving the services they provide to both internal and external stakeholders to reach a higher level of superior quality.

Through the new Academic Advisement Center (AAC), Albany Tech students will receive one-on-one assistance with understanding their respective placement into degree programs that represent an optimal balance of their aspirations and abilities. The center is designed to significantly enhance the capabilities to assist students from enrollment to graduation with a “high touch concept.”

Staffed with Academic Advisors and Success Coaches, the AAC will help students in formulating a successful academic program that helps them translate their goals, interests, and life plans into an effective educational experience. This will be achieved through three phases of advisement: Pre-Advising (Recruitment Phase), Professional Advising (Intrusive Advising Phase), and Faculty Advising (Completion Phase).

During the Pre-Advising (Recruitment) Phase, each student will be pre-advised by the admissions and recruitment staff. Students will be assigned to a professional advisor and/or success coach. Items covered during this phase includes Accuplacer, ACT, and SAT scores; overview of 12 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

program options; career options; and the application process.

The Professional Advising (Intrusive) Phase provides new firstyear degree seeking and transfer students with Academic Advisors, Online Success Coaches, and a Student Navigator. During the initial meeting, a review of the desired academic program, including the general education and program curriculum, in addition to an overview of academic policies (academic progress, holds, schedules, grade point average, etc.) and an overview of the registration process will take place. The student will also be scheduled for mandatory orientation and registration sessions. All Academic Advisors, Online Success Coaches, and Student Navigators will implement the “high touch concept,” making contact with students three times during the semester. If students are experiencing academic challenges, the staff will again make contact with students to set up tutoring appointments.

Finally, the Faculty Advising (Completion) Phase will provide students with faculty advisors after they successfully complete their first semester or have earned at least 12 credit hours. Through Albany Tech’s dual advising model focused on assisting students to realize the maximum benefits from their educational experiences and move on to a successful career, the faculty advisor will assist students with curriculum, work ethics, and

registration. Faculty will also be engaged in the “high touch concept” to ensure communication with students is consistent.

The AAC concept was developed at Albany Tech as part of a PBI grant the college received recently from the U.S. Department of Education. The grant is designed to strengthen and enhance online learning and student support services. Goals are to strengthen the design and delivery of online courses; provide faculty professional development workshops on best practices in online course pedagogy; and provide online student support services and self-service tools, such as tutoring, academic advising, financial aid services, library resources, and other services afforded to on-campus students. The AAC will allow ATC to help remove barriers and provide a more humanized approach to student success.

Memorial Day 2017

Keynote Speaker:

Lt. Col. Donald E. Gray, Jr., Retired, USMC

Albany Technical College held its annual Memorial Day Ceremony on May 18th in the Kirkland Conference Center. Keynote speaker for the ceremony was Lt. Colonel Donald E. Gray, Jr., Retired, U.S. Marine Corps.

Enlisting from his hometown of Houston Texas in 1986, Lt. Col. Gray graduated Honorman from Recruit Training at San Diego and Honorman from the School of Infantry at Camp Pendleton, California. As an Infantryman, he served in several billets with Alpha Company 1st Battalion, 23rd Marines to include participation in Joint Task Force 6 counter drug/counter narco-terrorism operations along the Texas and Mexico borders, along with several assignments throughout his military career.

Gray holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications with a minor in Military Science (as the Naval ROTC unit’s most Distinguished Graduate) from Prairie A&M University. In 2009, he assumed the position as the Deputy Director of the Maintenance Management Center at Marine Corps Logistics Base, Albany (LOGCOM). He currently supervises programs in support of the Marine Corps Logistics Command in several stateside and overseas locations and in addition at Fort Benning, Georgia in support of the U.S. Army Directorate of Training Sustainment. He is a member of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Albany Area Chamber Military Affairs Committee.

The ceremony began with a welcome from Albany Tech’s President, Dr. Anthony O. Parker, followed by the presentation of colors by the

Westover High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC Color Guard, the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, performed by Todd Stone.

After the invocation provided by Vincent Alston, Veteran of the U.S. Army, there was a special vocal performance by O’Brien Arnett, Chair of the Marketing Management program at Albany Tech, and a video tribute entitled “True Meaning of Memorial Day.” Albany Tech began the tradition in 2013 of holding both a Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day Ceremony on the campus prior to or following the Monday holiday to commemorate our veterans and allow our students, faculty, staff, and the community to recognize and honor those who fought for our country.

access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017 | 13

50 Years of Service

Honoring Mollie Walls 50 Years of Service to Albany Technical College

If you have ever called the President’s office at Albany Technical College, you have been greeted by the friendly voice of Mrs. Mollie Walls, who has been a mainstay at the college for the past 50 years.

Walls began her journey with Albany Tech back when it was not a college, but known as Monroe Area Vocational School and part of the Georgia Department of Education. The year was 1967 and she was located in one building, where all classes were held and only about 175 students attended.

In the mid-60’s with no computers in the classrooms or offices, Walls said she used a typewriter and handwrote several things and that if additional copies were required, they had to use carbon paper, ditto machines, or mimeograph machines.

“We had no service delivery areas and the counselor and director recruited all over Georgia and north Florida,” said Walls.

Having been an Albany Tech student before she was employed, Walls said the school used a trimester system back then, which was later changed to the quarter system. Tuition was also only $10 per trimester and just eleven diploma programs were offered.

When she began her career, Walls started out as a “Material Production Specialist,” where she worked evenings from 2:30pm to 11pm. Prior to becoming the Executive Assistant to the President, she served as Secretary I, Secretary II, Switchboard Operator, 14 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

and Administrative Assistant to the Vice President for Academics.

In 2000, the vocational school was changed to college and the community began to put away the trade school mentality and recognize Albany Tech as one of the most progressive workforce providers in Southwest Georgia.

Walls said that seeing students in the region take advantage of the opportunities available has been some of the most rewarding parts of her time at the college. “The cost is low when compared to other colleges, but the benefits are high and there are opportunities to expand,” she said.

Working directly with Dr. Anthony Parker, President of Albany Tech for the past 18 years as his Executive Assistant, Walls said that time has been one of the greatest experiences she has had.

“I have learned a lot from Dr. Parker’s management style over the years,” said Walls. “I have found him to be firm, but fair. When he assigns projects, he goes the extra mile to be sure that everyone understands what he wants and the results he is trying to accomplish.”

Walls credits Parker’s work at the college as having a great impact on how the community sees Albany Tech.

“Prior to Dr. Parker’s arrival, Albany Tech was one of the best hidden secrets in the community and I believe Albany Tech is seen in a more positive light because of his leadership,” she said.

A retirement celebration was held in June to honor Walls’ retirement and years of dedicated service to the college. She was recognized with a resolution at Albany Tech, as well as from the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), and the office of Georgia Governor Nathan Deal.

Plans are already in the works for Walls to return to Albany Tech part-time to help with alumni relations expansion.

We Will Miss You, Mollie!

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Move On When Ready Pathways Signing

Six ATC high school graduates continue education at four-year universities 16 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

Albany Technical College held a Move On When Ready (MOWR) Pathways signing on April 17th in the Logistics Education Center Auditorium. Six MOWR students signed to move on to several universities to complete bachelor’s degrees.

Nilkumar “Nil” Patel, a Terrell County High School MOWR student in Albany Tech’s Electronics and Engineering Technology associate degree program, has been accepted to the University of Georgia this fall to complete his bachelor’s degree in Engineering.

Maintaining better than a 4.0 GPA, Patel graduated in June as the Valedictorian of his class at Terrell High. An active member and Captain of Albany Tech’s Titan Alliance Robotics Team, he was instrumental in establishing a robotics team at Terrell County High in 2015. He was also Albany Tech’s 2017 Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) winner.

King La’Keit Randall, a Westover High School MOWR student in Albany Tech’s Culinary Arts associate degree program, has been accepted at the Art Institute of Atlanta’s Culinary Arts program this fall. Randall was voted “Most Likely to Succeed” and “Likely to be Famous” in his class and was also voted Pro Star Student of the Year in Georgia. He is a member of the NAACP and a motivational speaker to other students. He was also the keynote speaker at the MLK March at Albany’s Government Center recently.

Tonyari Scott, a Westover High School MOWR student in Albany Tech’s Electronics and Engineering Technology associate degree program, has been accepted to the Georgia Institute of Technology this fall.

Scott is expected to graduate from Westover in the top 10 percent of her class. As an active member and Captain of Albany Tech’s Titan Alliance Robotics Team, she was a nominee for the Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) competition this year.

Jamekia Collins, a Monroe High School student in Albany Tech’s Law Enforcement Technology associate degree program, has been accepted to Georgia Southern University this fall. Collins is involved with the tennis team and Student Council at Monroe and is the recipient of the Georgia Certificate of Merit. She was also one of Albany Tech’s 2017 Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) finalists. She is involved in Girl Talk, Inc. as the Project Inside Out Counselor and is the 2015-16 President of the Georgia Civic Awareness program for students.

Tylexus Robinson, a Monroe High School student in Albany’s Tech’s Law Enforcement Technology associate degree program, has been accepted to Fort Valley State University this fall. Robinson was named the 2017 STAR Student and attended the Governor’s Honors program, currently holding the position of Treasurer for the 2017 senior class. She is in the top 10 percent of her graduat-

ing class and has maintained over a 3.0 GPA at both Monroe High School and at Albany Tech.

Brittany Hamilton, a Monroe High School student in Albany Tech’s Law Enforcement Technology associate degree program, has been accepted to Fort Valley State University this fall. She has maintained better than a 3.0 GPA at both Monroe High and Albany Tech and has been on the Honor Roll her entire high school years.

Hamilton is a participant in the DECA Club, Tennis Team, and G.I.R.L.S. Organization. She is also active with the Steeping Out Organization.

This year marked the first year Albany Tech has conducted a formal signing for MOWR Pathways students.

With the Georgia MOWR program, all Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) colleges are seeing tremendous growth, especially those who move on to four-year universities to obtain higher levels of degrees. The goal is to highlight these students each academic year.

“The Georgia MOWR program is one of the best programs available for high school students and we anticipate growing our program even more here at Albany Tech in the 2018 academic year and each year to come,” said Dr. Anthony O. Parker, President of Albany Technical College.

For more information about Albany Tech’s MOWR program and Pathways agreements Albany Tech holds with several four-year universities, visit albanytech.edu.

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More Partnership Agreements with

Georgia Southwestern State University Albany Technical College (ATC) and Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) held a signing for new articulation agreements in several academic programs on August 14th in the Executive Board Room of the Logistics Education Center of the Albany Tech campus.

Five academic programs were included in the new agreement, including Business, Criminal Justice, Education, Information Technology, and Nursing. ATC Accounting and Marketing Management associate degree graduates will qualify to transfer to GSW to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. ATC Computer Support Specialist, Networking Specialist, Computer Programming, and Cybersecurity associate degree graduates will qualify to enter GSW to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology. ATC Early Childhood Care and Education associate degree graduates will qualify to transfer to GSW to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Education in Early Childhood. ATC Law Enforcement Technology associate degree graduates will qualify to enter GSW to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Finally, ATC Associate of Science (ASN) in Nursing graduates will qualify to transfer to GSW to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Nursing.

“We are pleased to strengthen our partnership with 18 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

Georgia Southwestern to renew and add new programs to the agreement, which streamlines the process and enables our students to fully achieve their educational and career goals,” said Dr. Tanjula Petty, Albany Tech vice president for academic affairs.

The new agreement will be effective fall of this year through spring of 2023 and will be considered for review every year thereafter. Both agreements are designed to ensure a smooth transition for students from ATC to GSW in the outlined coursework.

“We are pleased to partner with Georgia Southwestern and look forward to our continued partnership with them in the years to come to help our students further their educational goals,” said Dr. Anthony O. Parker, Albany Tech president.

“Engaging in meaningful collaborations with our partner schools, and promoting academic success represent an important component of GSW’s core values. Expanding our agreement with Albany Technical College fits in that perfectly,” said Lynda Lee Purvis, GSW interim VP for Academic Affairs.

“Albany Technical College is an important partner for Georgia Southwestern, and we are very happy to finalize this agreement, which will provide for a seamless

transfer for students who wish to continue their educational pursuits. Improving access to bachelor’s degree programs for students from Albany Tech will strengthen the relationship between our schools, and it will help create a more educated Georgia,” said Neal Weaver, GSW president.

Literacy Dollars

Dollar General Literacy Foundation Gives to Albany Tech Foundation The Albany Tech Foundation was recently awarded a grant by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation in the amount of $14,640, to support adult literacy. This local grant award is part of more than $7.5 million in grants awarded to nearly 900 schools, non-profits and organizations across the 44 states that Dollar General serves.

“On behalf of the faculty, staff, and students of the Adult Education program at Albany Technical College, we are grateful and proud to be a recipient of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation Grant for FY2018,” said Linda Coston, Vice President for Adult Education at Albany Technical College.

Many of the students enrolled in the GED program at Albany Tech are unable to afford the cost of the GED test, which ultimately prevents them from completion. The grant will help these students to realize their goal of achieving the high school equivalency diploma and help them to possibly, move on at Albany Tech to enroll in and earn a diploma, degree, or certification in an academic program.

“Dollar General is excited to provide these organizations 16 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

with funding to support literacy and education throughout the 44 states we serve,” said Todd Vasos, Dollar General’s CEO. “Providing these grants and supporting

these communities we call home, reflects our mission of Serving Others and it’s rewarding to see the impact these funds have.”

“We are indeed appreciative of the investment in our students and the community,” added Coston.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation supports initiatives that help others improve their lives through literacy and education. Since its inception in 1993, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation has awarded more than $135 million in grants to non-profit organizations, helping more than 8.6 million individuals take their first steps toward literacy or continued education.

The Albany Tech Foundation has received nearly $40,000 from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation in the last six years that has been earmarked for students in the Adult Education/GED program. access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017 | 19

Recognizing Work Ethics

Albany Tech Holds First Work Ethics Recognition Program Albany Technical College held a Work Ethics Special Recognition Program on June 6th. This was the first of what the college hopes to hold in honor of these students each semester of the academic year.

As part of the technical education criteria, Albany Tech students are required to excel in Work Ethics as part of the grade they receive for each academic course.

Those work ethics include appearance, attendance, attitude, character, communication, cooperation, organizational skills, productivity, respect and teamwork.

Almost 70 students will be recognized at the ceremony Tuesday.

Keynote speaker for the ceremony was Chris Tipper, Program Management Division Engineering Supervisor for the Marine Depot Maintenance Command in Albany.

Serving as an industrial and systems engineer who supervises the engineering efforts within the Program Management Division, Tipper is responsible for rapid prototyping, product design, and process development to support the production plant and its customers. His team has been responsible for design of such items as the Albany mine rollers, SOCOM gunner’s shield, and Mobile Trauma Bay. A native of Tifton Georgia, Tipper is a graduate of Worth County Comprehensive High School. He attended Middle Georgia College and later, the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he graduated with a degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering.

teamwork cooperation organization appearance attendance productivity respect attitude character communication 20 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

Yancey Brothers

Donation of Catepillar Equipment to ATC’s Diesel Tech Program Yancey Brothers donated several pieces of equipment to Albany Technical College’s Diesel Equipment Technology program during a special presentation to the Albany Tech Foundation, Inc. on July 13th in the Diesel program lab area in Freedom Hall.

A total of six pieces of equipment were donated.

These include two Caterpillar engines, one Cummins engine, one complete steering axle/differential group from a Telescopic Handler, which is a rough terrain forklift, and one complete Hydraulic, which comes complete with a hydraulic motor.

Several Albany Tech Diesel students have been interviewed by Yancey associates in the Albany Tech Career Development Center for potential apprenticeship positions and the addition of the equipment to the program labs will allow these and all students to train in advance on equipment being used by the company.

“These equipment donations will give the Diesel program students the opportunity to train on equipment that is currently being used by Caterpillar in their service area,” said Willie Walker, Chair of the Diesel Equipment Technology program at Albany Tech. “This will benefit our graduates with technical training on current engines and equipment, which will make an easier transition into the workplace.”

Walker also said that as an employer, Yancey will be

able to cut down on training time with new employees coming in already trained on their equipment.

“We view this relationship as a win for all parties involved – Yancey Brothers, our students, and the community,” said Dr. Emmett Griswold, Dean of Academic

Affairs for the Carlton Construction Academy. “We are fortunate to have employers such as Yancey Brothers in our community that are willing to partner with us on supplying the workforce needs within our region.” access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017 | 21

Arbor Day 2017

Live Oak Planted to Complete Quadrant Around ATC’s Wall of Giving Albany Technical College, a Tree Campus USA, celebrated Arbor Day on March 9th on the grounds south of the Nathaniel Cross Health Care Technology Building, by planting a tree. The first 50 attendees to the tree planting received redbud and crape myrtle seedlings.

George Paul, Environmental Horticulture instructor at Albany Tech, selected a live oak, which is the Georgia state tree. The tree was planted in the large span of grounds between the Center for Excellence in Technology and the Nathaniel Cross Health Care Technology building.

Albany Technical College also celebrated another year of being named a Tree Campus USA. The College has been named Tree Campus USA since 2008 for its dedication to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship.

Tree Campus USA, a national program launched by the Arbor Day Foundation, honors college and universities and the leaders of the campus and surrounding communities for promoting healthy urban forest management and engaging the campus community in environmental stewardship. Tree Campus USA is supported by a $750,000 grant from Toyota.

Albany Technical College met the required five core standards of tree care and community engagement in order to receive Tree Campus USA status. Those standards are establishing a campus tree advisory committee; evidence of a campus tree-care plan; verification of dedicated annual expenditures on the campus tree-care plan; involvement in an Arbor Day observance; and the institution of a service-learning project aimed at engaging the student body.

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Faces/Events FACES/EVENTS

The latest campus happenings ...

The National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) held an induction ceremony on March 16th. Twelve Albany Tech students were inducted at the March ceremony.

Courtney Brinson, AT&T District Director (left), presented Dr. Anthony O. Parker, President of Albany Tech and the Albany Tech Foundation with a scholarship check in the amount of $2,500 on May 17th.

Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Albany presented the Albany Tech Foundation with a Albany Tech’s Career Development Center held its annual Spring Career Fair on April 20th. check for $5,000 on May 18th. The funds were designated to be used for Adult Edu- Almost 50 employers were represented at the event. cation, Special Populations, and the Albany Tech Engineering Preparatory Academy.

Faces/Events

Albany Tech’s Spring Honors Day Program was held on April 25th. Nearly 50 Albany Tech candidates for Spring Graduation were honored at the ceremony.

ATC’s Engineering Preparatory Academy held an “Engineering Week” in March with several activities for eighth grade through high school students to expose them to careers in the various areas of engineering.

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Faces/Events

FACES/EVENTS

The latest campus happenings ...

The Albany Tech Titans and Lady Titans were honored at the 2017 Athletics Banquet held on April 21st in the Kirkland Conference Center. Keynote speaker for the event was Coach Roderick Woods, assistant women’s basketball coach for South Carolina State University.

Albany Tech’s Titans Alliance Team #5536 participated in the 2017 Georgia First Robotics Competition for the South Region held at the Albany Civic Center on March 24th and 25th. The competition is a district qualifier for the state Peachtree Competition held each year.

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Faces/Events FACES/EVENTS

The latest campus happenings ...

Albany Tech students enjoyed a host of activities during the Annual Spring Fling event held on March 22nd, with ziplining, games, and many other activities.

The AirEvac unit visited with Albany Tech Paramedicine Technology students on March 16th. Students were provided with a demo of how the unit functions.

ATC’s Chef Todd White (center) presented Paula Williams (right), Director of the Albany Museum of Art, with a check on July 26th, to help with the cost of an Albany Tech Culinary student who will be attending a trip to Ireland in August.

Faces/Events

Several chefs visited Albany Tech’s Culinary Arts program to work with students on a “Supper Series” to raise funds for the Albany Museum of Art following the recent storms. Left: Chef Holly Chute, Executive Chef of Georgia Grown; Right: Chef Bobby Dean also visited with ATC’s Chef Todd White in April.

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Faces/Events

FACES/EVENTS

The latest campus happenings ...

The ATC Healthcare Technology division held Spring Capping and Pinning on April 12th. Almost 30 students were recognized in Practical Nursing, Pharmacy Technology, Advanced Emergency Medical Technician, and Paramedicine Technology.

The ATC Healthcare Technology division held Summer Capping and Pinning on July 19th. Almost 45 students were recognized in Practical Nursing, Dental Assisting, and Medical Assisting.

Faces/Events

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Faces/Events FACES/EVENTS

The latest campus happenings ...

The ATC Healthcare Technology division held Summer Capping and Pinning on July 19th. Almost 45 students were recognized in Practical Nursing, Dental Assisting, and Medical Assisting.

Faces/Events

The ATC Healthcare Technology division held a Pinning Ceremony for the Associate of Science (ASN) in Nursing Program on August 3rd at the SOWEGA Council on Aging.

Nearly 30 students were pinned during the ceremony. This marked the largest cohort of students completing the program since it began in 2013.

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Faces/Events

FACES/EVENTS

The latest campus happenings ...

Albany Tech was proud to be part of the Grand Opening of Phase I of the Commodore Conyers College and Career (4C’s) Academy on May 22nd. Our President, Dr. Anthony O. Parker, was recognized during the ceremony. A room in the Academy will be named in his honor.

The Albany Tech Foundation accepted a Lenox Furnace from the Georgia Propane Gas Association on May 1st. The furnace will be used in ATC’s HVAC program lab to help train students on the equipment to become workforce ready.

Faces/ Events

Albany Tech’s Special Populations have held several workshops in the spring and summer to include motivational speakers, male-centered topics, and many others.

More are planned for the fall and winter.

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NEW Programs for Fall 2017

BUSINESS HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATE DEGREE

The Business Healthcare Technology associate degree program is designed for new and current medical administrative assistant diploma students to transition into an area that will greatly enhance their career opportunities. The new program also provides a career pathway for students who would eventually like to earn a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration.

While in the program, students will be introduced to accounting fundamentals, electronic communications, internet research, electronic file management, and healthcare regulation and compliance. The program also includes instruction in effective communication skills and terminology that encompasses office management and executive assistant qualification and technology office innovations. access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017 | 29

CYBER CRIME INVESTIGATION ASSOCIATE DEGREE

The Cyber Crime Investigation associate degree program is a result of an active collaboration between ATC and the Advisory Board for the college’s Law Enforcement Technology program.

The new program will allow veteran law enforcement officers the opportunity to increase their educational goals and enhance their skills to combat Cyber Crime. It will also allow for these same agencies to build networking and enhanced resources through the implementation of Cyber Crime Task Force units between Federal, State, and Local agencies. Those interested in the program do not necessarily have to be certified police officers, but would work in a civilian capacity or as a consultant to an agency.

INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES ASSOCIATE DEGREE

The Interdisciplinary Studies associate of applied science (AAS) degree program is designed specifically for Move On When Ready (MOWR) students who wish to pursue a career in healthcare technology.

The new program will provide an educational foundation for roles that span multiple disciplines in the healthcare environment, including Central Sterile Supply Processing Technician Specialization, Electrocardiography Technology Specialization, Nurse Aide Specialization, and Phlebotomy Specialization. Other areas will include Health Information Technology, Nursing, Surgical Technology, and Radiology. Students will be required to complete at least three specializations.

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FACULTY/STAFF RECOGNITIONS

Kenneth Singleton Receives NISOD Award for the Second Time Albany Technical College’s Law Enforcement Technology Chair, Kenneth Singleton, was honored as a 2017 National Institute of Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award recipient at their Annual Awards Conference held May 27-30 in Austin, Texas. He was also the recipient of the NISOD Excellence Award in 2014.

Having served as a Law Enforcement Technology instructor at Albany Tech for nine years and as the Department Chair for six years, Singleton also heads up Albany Tech’s Campus Safety Committee, serving as the Chair of the committee for the last two years. In this capacity, he coordinates, directs, and oversees day-to-day operations/functions for the Safety and Security Committee, and heading up faculty, staff, and student campus safety trainings and updates, including the campus’s annual “Active Shooter” training exercises.

The NISOD Excellence Awards were established in 1991 to provide NISOD member colleges with an opportunity to recognize individuals doing extraordinary work on their campuses. Since that time, more than 25,000 recipients have been honored with the Award by their colleges. Using their own criteria, NISOD member colleges submit the names of men and women each year who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment and contribution to their students and colleagues. All individuals whose names are submitted are recognized as NISOD Excellence Awards recipients. Each

recipient receives a unique silver medallion engraved with the University of Texas and NISOD insignias and adorned with a burnt orange ribbon. Each May, during NISOD’s International Conference on Teaching and Leadership Excellence, recipients are celebrated during an elegant and inspiring gathering that recognizes their contributions and achievements.

“It is a blessing, a great pleasure, and I am very much humbled to have been selected to represent Albany Technical College at this year’s NISOD Excellence Awards gala,” said Singleton. “The opportunity to attend a conference of this magnitude allowed for me to meet, fellowship, train, and receive a plethora of information from such a large and diverse group of people. This experience will not only permit me to enhance my teaching abilities, but will also afford me the chance to share this information with my colleagues.”

Singleton received a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Albany State University, a master’s in Justice Administration from Columbus State University, and is a graduate of the International Association of Chiefs of Police Georgia Law Enforcement Command College. He also received his Green Belt (Quality Assurance Specialist) Lean Six Sigma certification from Albany Technical College. He is a Charter Member of the Dougherty Leadership Institute and has been named Police Officer of the Year. He is married to Mary Terry Singleton.

Three ATC Faculty & Staff Named to Herald’s 40 Under 40 for 2017

Dr. JaNee Mobley

Chair, Pharmacy Technology

Justin Wilcox

Ashley Morris

Student Life Coordinator

Dean of Academic Affairs General Core & Learning Support

Congratulations to our 40 Under 40 Recipients!

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ADMINISTRATIVE APPOINTMENTS

Barbara Brown Appointed New VP for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Albany Technical College (ATC) has appointed a new Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. Barbara Brown began her official duties toward the end of May. With over 20 years’ experience in Student Affairs and Higher Education Administration, Barbara Brown is no stranger to ATC. Since 1995, she has served in the Admissions/Student Affairs

department as a Student Services Specialist, Admissions Director, Recruiter/Admissions Counselor, Assistant Director of Admissions, and as the Director of Recruitment and Move On When Ready (MOWR) program. She has served as Acting Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management for the last three months when the position was vacated.

Brown is a graduate of Dougherty Leadership and Albany Tech’s Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification. She received a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Albany State University and a master’s degree in Management with a concentration in Human Resources from Troy University. She has also been a presenter for “Best Practices for Servicing Community Partners Mobile Go Center” in Miami, Florida and been an admissions presenter at the 57th Annual Georgia Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers Conference.

With a commitment to student success in technical educa-

tion, Brown believes she is a catalyst for making a difference in the lives of the students she serves in the Albany community.

She believes that technical education is the key ingredient to upward mobility for citizens throughout Georgia and that if individuals are exposed to opportunities like the MOWR program for high school students, they will excel. She is passionate about tapping into the gifts and talents of every individual and equipping them with the information they need to reach their educational goals.

“I am humbled by the confidence that the administration of Albany Technical College has placed in me,” said Brown. “As this chapter continues, I resolve to continue to see no limits and no boundaries to education and success.”

A member of Sherwood Baptist Church, Brown is married to Kenny Brown, Sr., and they have two children, Lakese Brown and Kenny Brown, Jr.

Matt Dennis Appointed New Dean of Academic Affairs for Healthcare Technology Albany Technical College has appointed a new Dean of Academic Affairs for the Healthcare Technology division.

Matt Dennis began his new position on April 3, 2017.

Dennis comes to Albany Tech from Columbus Technical College, where he has served as the Program

Director for the Respiratory Care program since 2006. A native of Columbus, Georgia, he holds an associate’s degree in Respiratory Therapy, a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences, and a master’s of Public Administration in Health Services Administration from Columbus State University.

In 1991, Dennis began his work in the healthcare field as a Registered Respiratory Therapist at Columbus Medical Center and in 2002, he became the Respiratory Disease Management Clinical Director for Healthways in Nashville, Tennessee.

In 2004, he moved back to Columbus, Georgia, and joined Healthfield, Inc. as the manager for their homecare branch before accepting the position with Columbus Tech in 2006.

“My goal as the new Dean of Academic Affairs for the Healthcare Technology division at Albany Tech is to provide quality instruction, while retaining students until they graduate and then, helping them to obtain a job in the healthcare industry,” said Matt Dennis, new Dean of Academic Affairs for the Healthcare Technology division at Albany Technical College.

Dennis said that he will mentor his faculty, who will ensure the competencies and learning outcomes are meeting their benchmark on a consistent basis. He replaces Mattie Buchannon, prior Dean of Academic Affairs for the Healthcare Technology division at Albany Tech, who retired in December of 2016 after 25 years of service.

We want to hear from you!

To share your story, contact Wendy Howell, Executive Director of Marketing and PR at whowell@albanytech.edu

32 | access | Albany Technical College | Summer 2017

NOW

OFFERING

COSMETOLOGY EVENING CLASSES ®

ENROLL NOW FOR FALL MINIMESTER II • CLASSES BEGIN OCTOBER 16 Contact Arniecesha Price at aprice@albanytech.edu or April Anderson at aanderson@albanytech.edu for more information.

Have an ACCESS story idea?

To share your idea, contact Wendy Howell, Executive Director of Marketing and PR at whowell@albanytech.edu

albanytech.edu

A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia 1704 South Slappey Boulevard Albany, Georgia 31701

Dougherty County Campus: 229.430.3500 | Randolph County Learning Center: 229.732.5280 www.albanytech.edu As set forth in its student catalog, Albany Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, genetic information, veteran status, or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). The following person(s) has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Title IX Coordinator, Kathy Skates, Vice President of Administrative Services, Albany Technical College, 1704 S. Slappey Blvd., Albany, GA 31701. Phone 229.430.3524 and Section 504 Coordinator, Regina Watts, Special Needs Coordinator, Albany Technical College, 1704 S. Slappey Blvd., Albany, GA 31701, 229.430.2854 or rwatts@albanytech. edu.