Winter/Spring Winter/Spring 2021 2021 || Volume Volume 42 42
2020 Summer Commencement Takes Place Amidst Pandemic
New Greenhouse Rises on Main Campus
Professors’ Classroom Innovation Reaches Across Continents
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TABLE OF
CONTENTS Cover: More than 300 Bellevue University students received degrees at the 2020 commencement ceremony held on Saturday, Aug. 1, at Werner Park. The ceremony was pushed back and moved to an outdoor location due to the pandemic. All university staff and volunteers, as well as graduates and attendees, wore face masks. President’s Message…. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 One Year into DBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Vets with Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 New Instructor’s Full Circle Journey… . . . . . . 5 Scholarship Student’s Resilience . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7 Summer Commencement…. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Around Campus - New Greenhouse…. . . . 10-11 Professors’ Classroom Innovation…. . . . . . . . 12 Alum Leads at Next Level…. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Grad Lands DISA Internship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Backpacks for Homeless Vets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Great Colleges Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
OUTSTANDING IN
THEIR FIELD
This time last year, we had no idea what we would face together in 2020. However, as you will see in this issue of The View magazine, Bellevue University students, faculty and team members have pressed on and continued to achieve in the midst of the global pandemic. Mission Statement Bellevue University provides career-oriented, cost effective, open access education through select undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. Vision In a rapidly changing higher education environment, Bellevue University boldly adapts and innovates so our students and university can be wildly successful. Values Integrity in all we do Value of education Student Success Innovative Care for Others
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One of the most visible changes took place in August, when we held our Spring Commencement ceremony outdoors. On a beautiful summer morning, more than 300 students received their degrees at Werner Park, a ballpark near Papillion, Nebraska. You can read more about the unconventional ceremony and the inspiring journey of our student speaker Jasmine Stephens on page 8. Another Bellevue University student who is clearly distinguishing herself is Ashley Hampton. Ashley is already an alum – she earned her MBA in 2016 – and she’s part of the university’s first-ever Doctorate of Business Administration cohort class. Ashley’s applied doctoral project, on the pay gap between black and white college
graduates, is an important topic to her, to her three children, and I believe, is very timely. As an alumnus, you know real life learning that brings people together is an essential part of the Bellevue University experience. An example of that is a unique Thinking by Design course, developed developed by Professors Brian Kear and JoDee Goracke that reaches across continents to connect students in the States with students in Tanzania. You can read more about this international collaboration on page12. While no one can predict exactly what 2021 will hold, I can unreservedly say that our Bellevue University alumni – 60,000-plus strong and counting – will continue to serve as outstanding leaders who are working to change their lives and the lives of those around them for the better.
Dr. Mary Hawkins President, Bellevue University
ONE YEAR IN:
DBA Student is Hungry to Learn, Seek Solutions “Maybe I’m supposed to do something different?” It’s a question Ashley Hampton, now 29, pondered after her initial career plan didn’t pan out. As an eager undergraduate, Hampton applied herself but was waitlisted for law school. What many would see as a setback, she used as fuel to forge a new path. “I still wanted to impact people,” says Hampton, a native of Bellevue, Nebraska. After earning her bachelor’s in finance, Hampton worked for a few years in the banking and investment world. A competitor to her core, she wasn’t content just coasting. “I knew I was capable of more,” she says. “I had so many talents I wasn’t getting to use.” That’s when Hampton started her graduate school journey at Bellevue University, first earning an MBA, followed by an MA in Business and Professional Communication. Soon after, she says, “everything started opening up.” One of those open doors was at the global analytics firm Gallup. Hampton currently works at the Riverfront Campus in Omaha as an implementation analyst. She spends her workdays navigating spreadsheets, collaborating with clients, leading team meetings, and writing process documentation — plus (her favorite part) burning off steam on Gallup’s basketball team. “The office has so many great opportunities and people,” she says. “It’s really engaging.” Whether playing on the court or working at her computer, Hampton has high energy and natural leadership ability. “I want to be a leader within my organization,” she says. Hampton’s insatiable appetite to learn and lead have led her to pursue yet another graduate degree at Bellevue University — this time a Doctorate of Business Administration, launched in 2019. For Hampton, this program is tailor-made for her busy lifestyle and professional aspirations, especially its straightforward structure and applied doctoral project that’s integrated throughout her coursework, all online, over three years. Instead of a traditional doctoral dissertation, students enrolled in Bellevue University’s DBA program choose a business challenge they’re passionate about. Then, through in-depth research, they seek a solution, emerging as a thought leader in their interest area. This degree is especially close to Hampton’s heart, in part because she cares deeply about the project. “My topic is the pay gap between black and white college graduates,” she says.
After an initial survey of the research, Hampton has noted an apparent widening of the salary gap particularly among women of different races. She says she’s eager to explore the current data further and build on the work that’s already there, adding her own suggestions, proposing new questions, and pinpointing solutions. Ultimately, Hampton hungers to make a difference and disrupt common mindsets that could be contributing to these economic disparities. “I want to be an advocate for people and to help people who don’t have a voice,” she says. Her interest in advocacy also stems from her personal experiences as a Black woman, she says, and she sees this doctoral degree as another tool to position herself to be part of the solution for a better, brighter future — especially for her children. Together with her husband (who’s working toward a business degree), Hampton is raising two sons, ages 6 and 4, and a 1-year-old daughter. “I hope to show my daughter that you can do anything you want,” she says, envisioning a diverse and equitable world with a myriad of role models. As a working mom, Hampton is thankful for the flexibility built into her doctoral program. “I love the set up,” she says. Each term includes one or two classes, followed by a two-week break, helping Hampton refresh and recharge.
“I want to be an advocate for people and to help people who don’t have a voice.” One way she powers through her classes while juggling her job and family responsibilities: extra strong coffee. “I should bottle it and sell it,” she says of her special recipe. Hampton admits she’s living through a hectic season right now, working from home and fitting in her homework early in the morning and late at night. “I have a really strong support system,” she says, giving a thankful nod to her husband and her parents, who are retired military members who live two minutes up the street. At the end of the day, and even when she’s sleep-deprived, she knows what she’s working toward is worth it. Several years into her career, Hampton is able to look back without regrets, realizing she’s followed a perfect path for her personality. By now, law school is a faded memory. She’s found clarity and isn’t hesitating to chase her dreams, which include writing a book and giving a TED talk. But first: finishing her DBA degree.
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Bellevue University Provides Vets with Connections looking for something traditional in the classroom and Bellevue provided that for me.” After serving in the military, it can be difficult to find a traditional college experience, Jacoby said. “I went to school with young athletes who played baseball, volleyball and basketball and I was able to go to their sports games and support them and it was amazing,” she said. “I also had the most amazing professors because they encouraged us to submit papers to symposiums, conferences and workshops.” Jacoby graduated with her master’s in social work from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 2017, but said her invaluable experience at Bellevue University and the university’s dedicated Military Veteran Services Center are the reasons she was able to pursue her graduate degree. The MVSC ‘Changed the Trajectory’ Amy Jacoby’s connection to Bellevue University started over a decade ago. During her time as a medic in the military, Jacoby had been stationed and lived in the southeastern Nebraska area multiple times, so she was familiar with the school. “I was looking for an undergraduate program that matched my wants and my needs. For me, that was Bellevue University,” Jacoby said. In 2014, Jacoby graduated with a double major in psychology and sociology. While Bellevue University is primarily an online institution, the school also offers classes on its campus, which is considered a more traditional experience for interested students. Jacoby loved being in the classroom, she said. Online & Face-to-Face Classes “I love that they had traditional classes for both the psychology and sociology programs,” Jacoby said. “After transitioning from the military and working full-time with people, I was
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The MVSC showed me that I could afford to go to graduate school,” Jacoby said. “Working with the Center was transformative and changed the trajectory of where I was going professionally, which is what I needed. It was amazing and I am thankful for their support.” After working for the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Omaha for a year, Jacoby transferred to Phoenix in June. In her new position, she works as a Mental Health Intensive Case Management Social Worker for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Phoenix. In her role, she helps veterans improve their quality of life through intensive case management. Jacoby’s journey is proof that the connections you make at Bellevue University can stay with you even after you graduate or leave the city. Jacoby first met Marine Corps veteran Greg Neville a few years ago through the MVSC. Neville graduated from the university in 2020 with a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice.
“We both are veterans, so we speak the same language and have shared experiences that transcend other relationships because you bond quicker,” Jacoby said. Connections That Count Neville also recently relocated to Phoenix and because of the connection they made through the MVSC, Jacoby will be able to help him make his transition to a new state a successful one. “I will be able to help him get enrolled in his healthcare and veteran’s benefits and help him continue the work that he was doing in Omaha in Phoenix and connect him to resources,” Jacoby said. Jerome Richardson, Director of the MVSC, said Neville is excited to be in Arizona. “At the MVSC, we want to help our veterans make connections and provide resources so they can be successful in their ‘second mission’ however that mission might look,” Richardson said. “Being able to help a veteran like Neville relocate to a new city through a familiar friend like Jacoby is only one example of the impact the MVSC can have on veterans.” He added that the military center serves all veterans and active duty military, regardless of their circumstances, but that most are enrolled at the university, which has been ranked among the nation’s most military-friendly institutions for more than a decade. As for Jacoby, she said the MVSC played an important role in getting her where she is today. “The MVSC helped me identify both short- and long-term goals and then they connected me with tangible resources to help me achieve those goals,” Jacoby said. “They helped fuel my passion for working with veterans and I am very thankful for that.”
Alumna Completes Full-Circle Journey to Become Instructor the challenges that lay ahead of her. Until many years ago, I, too, was unmindful to the adversity my mom experienced. She rarely spoke of her hardships, but rather focused on the endless possibilities of success despite circumstance.” As Brown began to learn more about her mother’s educational journey. She found out that it took her mother five years to complete her associate’s degree. Most notable is not only the degree but the amount of determination and dedication with which she earned it. Though she may be a new instructor in the College of Business, Dr. Marcia Brown is no stranger to Bellevue University. “As an alumna of Bellevue University, I’m grateful for the opportunity to now teach at Bellevue University and establish trusting and empowering relationships with students, encouraging life-long learning,” she said. Part of her full-circle journey involves working with diverse student populations in her educational leadership, organizational leadership and psychology courses. “Having the opportunity to work with so many students from different backgrounds, enables us all to learn more from each other,” she said. “When there is collaboration among and between faculty and students, the learning environment is increasingly rich and dynamic.” Appreciating the Journey of Lifelong Learners Brown also taps into the richness of her own life and background in teaching her students. She said, “My maternal grandfather and grandmother were impoverished immigrant workers from Mexico, and my mother was born into this life in 1946, completely unaware of
“Perseverance and the will to succeed both personally and professionally defined my mom’s character,” Brown said. “When teaching, I often think of my mom and appreciate the increased confidence and personal achievement she finds within herself as a lifelong learner. I’m thankful and grateful to those who inspired my beautiful mom, and my hope is to continue to inspire others to achieve their educational goals, as well.” Researching Ways to Help Active Duty Service Members Research also has proven an important part of Brown’s higher education journey. “Two of my favorite areas of research are military and leadership, including sports leadership.” she said. “I had the honor and privilege to complete my dissertation on active duty military service members enrolled in higher education while deployed.” Her interest in this topic tracks back, again, to her personal experience. “My husband retired from the United States Air Force after serving on active duty for 24 years,” she said. “I had the opportunity to learn about the challenges active duty service members faced when pursuing higher education while deployed.”
Using the insights gained through her research, Brown said she looks forward to helping Bellevue University – where military students and family members make up more than 20% of the student body – as well as other colleges and universities better serve those who serve. From Mental Health to Higher Education Brown’s journey back to Bellevue began when she obtained a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the university in 1997. She continued on, earning a master’s degree in community counseling from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a doctorate degree in educational studies from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. She spent her early professional years gaining clinical experience in mental health. In 2005, she had the opportunity to teach at the post-secondary higher education level, and excitedly, took on the new challenge. “Applying my knowledge and experiences from within the mental health field to teaching has provided many meaningful learning opportunities,” she said. Fifteen years into teaching, Brown is still taking on new challenges in higher education, including starting her new role at Bellevue University.
“Applying my knowledge and experiences from the mental health field to teaching has provided many meaningful learning opportunities.” Winter/Spring 2021 | 5
Bellevue University President Receives Prestigious Ohtli Award
BU Student, Sch Shares Story of Guadalupe “Lupita” Ayala Montañez loves people … and dogs. Most days you can find her at the park walking her 140-pound Great Pyrenees, Zeus. And on work days, the paralegal puts her friendly smile and people skills to good use assisting her clients with immigration paperwork.
Bellevue University President Dr. Mary Hawkins was named the 2020 recipient of the Ohtli Award, one of the highest awards given by the Government of Mexico to those who work with the Mexican community abroad. The Ohtli Award is presented to individuals who have distinguished themselves by dedicating their professional lives to advancing the prosperity of Mexican-American and Latino communities and opening pathways that improve the quality of life of the immigrant population. The term Ohtli refers to the Nahuatl word for “path” and acknowledges individuals outside of Mexico who have helped pave the way for others. Dr. Hawkins is one of the few non-Hispanic recipients of the Ohtli Award nationwide. She was recognized for efforts to expand educational opportunities to benefit Mexican youth and adults and improve the quality of their work and family lives. “Dr. Mary Hawkins has walked the road, the path, always looking for ways to build bridges of support and understanding between diverse cultures,” said Guadalupe Sánchez Salazar, Consul of the Consulate of Mexico that serves both Nebraska and Iowa. Sánchez Salazar cited Dr. Hawkins’ ongoing advocacy for the Mexican and Hispanic communities, including spearheading outreach and scholarships for Omaha’s South Omaha Hispanic community; providing staffing for the Consulate’s Educational Orientation Window to help advance the Mexican community; and supporting IME-Becas, a Consulate scholarship program for Hispanic students living in the United States. “I have been inspired by Guadalupe’s work as the Mexican Consul and am very honored to have been nominated for the award. I am truly overwhelmed to be the recipient,” said Dr. Hawkins. The award was presented to Dr. Hawkins on Sept. 15 during the Mexican Consulate’s virtual El Grito event celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day.
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“I get to help people,” says Montañez about her role at the Multicultural Coalition in Grand Island, Nebraska. “I get to make a difference.” An immigrant herself, she knows a thing or two about resilience and how it feels to be on the receiving end of a stranger’s kindness. Studying behavioral science online at Bellevue University, Montañez will graduate in 2021 debt free with her bachelor’s degree -- a feat made sweeter thanks to support from several scholarships. “It’s changed my life in so many ways,” says Montañez, a native of Mexico and the first in her family to attend college. “Without my scholarships, I wouldn’t be able to finish my education.” Scholarships not only provide a financial boost but also instill the confidence that many students need to continue forging ahead toward the finish line. For Montañez, knowing that others were investing in her future was the spark she needed to press on and apply herself Today, this 22-year-old is paving the way for generations to come, showing her family they can also break barriers and achieve their dreams. College is now a hot topic of conversation at family gatherings, Montañez says. “My aunts and cousins ask me, ‘How do you do it?’ I tell them some of the tricks I’ve learned along the way.” Aside from the typical tips, such as asking questions and forming relationships, her best college advice comes in the form of encouragement: “You can do it!”
holarship Recipient
Resilience
When a younger cousin was expressing doubts and fear of failing, Montañez was able to empathize. “I told her it’s normal to have those fears because I’ve had them before. I did it with my broken English and you can, too.” Born in Zacatecas, Mexico, Montañez moved to the United States at 15 with her parents and two younger brothers. The family arrived in Nebraska ... in November. “It was so cold outside! It was the first time I saw snow,” says Montañez, reliving her state of culture (and climate) shock. A homesick teenager, she struggled to adjust at first. Montañez was a sophomore according to her age, but because she didn’t know any English, her high school placed her in freshman classes so she could learn the language. Sadness soon set in. But then something shifted inside, Montañez says. “I saw my parents working the night shift. I thought, if it’s hard for me, it must be hard for them. I want to do something about it. I want to make them proud.” So she buckled down, acing her ESL classes in just five months. Eventually, she enrolled in three English courses during the same semester, determined to catch up to her classmates. Montañez succeeded, and she hasn’t slowed down since. After high school, she earned an associate’s in human services, which eventually led her to Bellevue University. “I enrolled at Bellevue University for the convenience of online classes,” she says, allowing her more flexibility to manage her full-time job while working toward her degree. “Plus they have a great program for my major.” Looking toward her future, Montañez imagines many career possibilities, including counseling, case management, or social work. Regardless of her role, what really matters for Montañez is serving people.
her Mexican culture. “That’s what makes me proud of my culture, the love we have for other people.” As Montañez thinks about her scholarship benefactors, she’s moved by the love they’ve shown her and many others through their generosity. “I hope I get to meet them one day in person, and I hope they let me give them a big hug because I’m so thankful,” she says. “They changed my life.” That’s how love works. And every day, Montañez pays it forward by touching the lives around her. “The way I can change the world is by changing one person’s life,” she says, reflecting on the legacy she aspires to leave, already well on her way.
“I hope I get to meet them one day in person, and I hope they let me give them a big hug because I’m so thankful.”
Even when she’s off the clock, her clients are on her mind. She uses the Duolingo app (usually while walking Zeus) to learn basic words in their native languages — a simple gesture to let them know she cares. “I try to learn as much as I can about other people to connect with them,” she says, crediting her heart for helping others to
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SUMMER COM
TAKES PLACE ADMIST
M
ore than 300 Bellevue University students received degrees at the 2020 commencement ceremony held on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2020 at Werner Park. The ceremony was pushed back and moved to an outdoor location due to the pandemic. All university staff and volunteers, as well as graduates and attendees, wore face masks. Among the graduates was Jasmine Stephens, student speaker, who earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Health and Human Performance. Stephens was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. Prior to attending Bellevue University, she earned an associate’s degree and attended Basic Camp at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where she earned the top ranking in her Regiment and was awarded an end of camp scholarship. During her time at Bellevue University, she was on the women’s cross-country team and earned Dean’s list honors for six straight terms and graduated with Highest Honors. In May, she was commissioned into the United States Army as a 2nd Lieutenant.
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“The individual aspirations that our students have and that Bellevue University enables are truly remarkable,” said University President Mary Hawkins, “and Jasmine Stephens exemplifies that. The students we serve best are those who, like Stephens, have invested in themselves and are motivated to get to the next level.” After graduation, Stephens will continue her career as an Active Duty Adjutant General Officer assigned to duty in Germany.
the Asian Highlands and the African Grasslands; additional community engagement spaces and much more.
Dennis Pate, President and CEO of Omaha’s world renowned Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, served as the commencement speaker. Pate’s accomplishments are many, including: 1,000-plus additional parking spots for the state’s most popular tourist attraction; new animal exhibits including
According to University Registrar Colette Lewis, the University conferred 680 degrees from Jan. 1, 2020 through March 31, 2020. This includes 446 undergraduate degrees and 234 master’s degrees. Bellevue University now has more than 60,000 graduates worldwide.
MMENCEMENT T PANDEMIC
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AROUND CAMPUS
L O OK A TAK E
The Sustainability Learning Lab and Greenhouse project, with its 7,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor learning spaces, will feature solar and wind generation stations, a biofuel algae pond and an outdoor classroom.
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As seen in this drone shot of Bellevue University’s main campus, the new greenhouse is located behind the R. Joe Dennis Learning Center, which houses state-of-the-art science labs.
The greenhouse shines bright and is expected to engage and educate more than 2,500 students, teachers, researchers and campus visitors a year.
GREENHOUSE CHANGES FACE OF MAIN CAMPUS The face of the Bellevue University main campus is changing as the new greenhouse and sustainability learning lab behind the R. Joe Dennis Learning Center are nearing completion.
The lab will support Bellevue University students and also engage and educate thousands of students, educators, researchers and campus visitors each year.
The project is made possible through grant funding received by the Council of Independent Colleges Foundation (CINCF) to help establish a sustainability learning lab at the university. Grant funds were received by CINCF from the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET). Bellevue University also received significant funding from its partners and donors.
Bellevue University President Dr. Mary Hawkins said the university is grateful for the continued support of the Sustainability Learning Lab. “We appreciate the partnership between CINCF, the Nebraska Environmental Trust and Bellevue University in bringing this project to life,” she said. “The continued support of Nebraska Environmental Trust and CINCF will help ensure that students learn the skills needed to help preserve Nebraska’s valuable natural resources and, at the same time, strengthen the state’s workforce.”
The learning lab project will feature 7,000-square foot outdoor-indoor space and includes the greenhouse, wind and solar generation stations, a biofuel algae pond and an outdoor classroom.
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Professors’ Classroom Innovation BRIAN KEAR PRACTICES WHAT HE TEACHES. The adjunct professor and user experience designer (UX) at Bellevue University has harnessed his unique background to create a class from scratch — achieving results beyond his expectations. “It’s one of the projects I’m most proud of,” Kear says about the undergraduatelevel course, called Thinking by Design. Design thinking is a problem-solving methodology that incorporates five action-oriented phases: empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test. After delving into each step with his class, Kear asks student-teams to choose a community issue they care about, put their heads together, and apply what they’re learning. Upping the ante, the class concludes with presentations to a panel of subject matter experts, similar to the hit TV show “Shark Tank.”
“It’s an eye-opening experience for students on both ends,” Kear says. “It’s stretched my students to consider issues outside of an American cultural perspective.” Challa has reported similar results. “He’s seen the minds of the students shifting,” Kear says. “They’re starting to realize they can make a difference through design thinking in their community.” Four years after its conception, the course has earned rave reviews. Kear is proud of the progress, yet -- like any true design thinker — he keeps soliciting feedback so he can make his product better. Born into a military family, Kear moved around the country as a child, eventually planting roots in Bellevue. He studied graphic design as an undergraduate and worked in Washington, D.C. for several years before making his way back to the Midwest.
“Depending on the topics, I seek out people working in those spaces,” he says. Panelists have ranged from a law enforcement officer to a foster care advocate.
Kear works closely with Mussa John Challa, who teaches Thinking by Design at an OE partner school in Moshi, Tanzania. Their classes connect periodically via video chat, which has kindled new friendships and expanded worldviews.
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“I got to take all these designs I had in my head and do something with them,” says Kear, who specializes in branding as well as print, web, package, and product design. “I’ve created and sold many different products.” One of his best-sellers is a bottle cap map of the United States, intended to encourage people to travel, he says. A travel junkie himself, Kear’s adventures have taken him around the world — from Ireland to the Philippines, where his mom grew up. “When I travel to different places, I look for design,” he says. “I get inspired by what I see, the people I meet, and I can translate those things into my work and create something new.” Kear’s master’s thesis explored the connection between creativity and courage, debunking the misconception that only certain people are creative. Rather, he says, creativity is a skill that anyone can cultivate through practice and personal experience. Kear also applies his creativity during his day job, working to enhance learning and engagement for Bellevue University students and other stakeholders navigating the university’s online presence.
Through group interaction and guest feedback, students are challenged to employ creative and critical thinking, collaborate, and consider divergent viewpoints. What’s more, Kear’s class — developed in conjunction with BU Assistant Professor JoDee Goracke and Opportunity Education — has reached across continents, all the way to a classroom in East Africa.
screen printer and laser cutter, he was armed with the machinery to match his ambitions.
Brian Kear, Adjunct Professor
Soon after, he accepted a design job at Bellevue University, which also allowed the opportunity to earn his master’s degree debt free. As a fine arts graduate student, Kear received the prestigious Pratt Entrepreneurial Award, which distributed funds to jumpstart his own creative design business. After purchasing a
Despite his hectic schedule, Kear can’t deny how perfectly his personal and professional experiences align. This synergy fuels his hunger to improve as an educator and design thinker, knowing that he’s practicing and teaching powerful skills that have the potential to transform lives. “I’ve seen my students grow,” Kear says. “I hope they continue to take the things they’re learning and apply them in their jobs and the community to make a bigger impact.”
BU ALUM READY T O L E A D AT T H E
NEXT LEVEL Cedric Menchion knows the secret to professional longevity.
“Work is easy for me because I love what I do,” says the Bellevue University alumnus, who’s amassed more than 20 years of experience in the financial field.
Omaha, learning about accounting and investments firsthand while finishing his Bellevue University bachelor’s degree in management and economics.
For the last eight years, he’s served in Texas public schools, starting as treasurer at Austin Independent School District, then moving to controller at Killeen ISD. September 2020 marked a career milestone for Cedric Menchion, 55, when he was named the Chief Financial Officer for Dripping Springs ISD near Austin.
“Bellevue University has always been at the tip of the spear,” says the ‘94 graduate. “At the time I attended it was the only college in the area to offer professional studies that catered to individuals who worked full time.”
“It’s a natural progression for me,” he says of his new executive leadership role, reminiscing on his trek to this mountain-top moment. Raised in a full Florida household, Menchion — one of 12 siblings — recalls his family’s humble, hard-working roots. “My parents didn’t have the means to send us all to college, but they instilled the importance of a solid high school education and how it could propel you forward.” Diploma in hand, Menchion left his home in Panama City Beach and took his talents to the Air Force, which eventually landed him at Offutt in Bellevue, Nebraska. On base, he completed general education classes through the local college — a decision he calls a “no brainer.” (Translation: He was destined to be a Bruin.) After the Air Force, Menchion worked for Kiewit Construction and Mutual of
Fun fact: Above and beyond his day job, Menchion moonlights at a local Texas college. He credits Bellevue University economics professor Dr. Judd Patton for inspiring him to teach the same subject today to the next generation.
“There will always be good people to help you achieve your goals. Find out what you love to do; it will be easier for you to excel.” He touts Bellevue University as foundational to his career trajectory, which has skyrocketed over the years. While progressing through the ranks, he also added to his educational arsenal, including an MBA and M.S. in Finance and Economics, as well as several professional certifications. “I’ve been entrusted over the years to manage a lot of public funds, billion dollar portfolios,” says Menchion, reflecting on his various roles and the
importance of up-to-date training. “I want the public to know, wherever I’m working, how seriously I take my role as a fiduciary. I can’t change the tax rate, but I can ensure the money is allocated correctly.” Leading with transparency and trust, Menchion strives to offer independence and flexibility for employees as well as continuity in management so that his teams can thrive and, ideally, outlast his tenure. While it’s bittersweet to leave coworkers who feel like family, Menchion is looking ahead to his new post with excitement, eager to lead at the next level. “It will be an easy transition for me,” he says, commenting on his synergy with the superintendent and board of trustees of his new district. Along with his love for finance and economics, Menchion finds deeper fulfilment knowing that his work supports a significant mission: developing an educated citizenry. “The bedrock of our survival as a country is our next generation,” he says. “My goal is to do the best I can to ensure teachers and students get the tools and resources they need to succeed.” For others seeking a satisfying career with staying power, Menchion suggests it boils down to two essential ingredients: people and passion.
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BU Graduate Student Lands Internship with
Defense Information Systems Agency Bellevue University graduate student Stacie Johnson is currently a student trainee contract specialist with DISA’s Defense Information Technology Contracting Organization at Scott Air Force Base – within the DISA Pathways Internship Program. She retired from the United States Air Force in 2018 and knows she’s on the right path. “DISA offers the opportunity to train me from the ground up to become a Contracting Officer,” Johnson said. “They allow me to continue to serve the Warfighter and make sure that the mission is done.”
Career opportunities like the DISA Pathways Program are important because students gain real world knowledge which ultimately can help them land full-time positions.
A Contracting Officer (CO) is a person who can bind the Federal Government of the United States to a contract. Contracting Officers hold a warrant that allows them to negotiate on behalf of the United States Government. Johnson, who started the internship in January 2020, will graduate from Bellevue University in June of 2021. At that time, the internship will end. All internships are currently virtual because of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Since I have been here, they have taken me in and welcomed me into the family with open arms and they’ve been training me on how to just do just about everything when it comes to completing contracts,” Johnson said. DISA is the premier IT combat support agency in the Department of Defense. They are the nation’s trusted provider to connect and protect the Warfighter in cyberspace, Jason Martin, Vice Director of DISA’s Development and Business Center, said.
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“What that means is we have the Department of Defense information network that connects all of the military networks together and we are really the backbone for the Department of Defense. Our intent is to provide the connection to ensure that we can increase the protection for the Department of Defense in the warfighting domain,” Martin said. While Johnson came to the department through the Pathways Program, Martin said there are multiple opportunities available to students to intern with them through various programs. “At the end of each internship, students know more about working in public service, which is very important to us,” Martin said. “But it also gives them experience and allows them to add those skills to their resumes which shows they have done a true missionrelated job in their college career.” Career opportunities like the DISA Pathways Program are important because students gain real-world knowledge which ultimately can help them land full-time positions. The agency is always looking for a broad range of interns for its IT programs, Martin said. “We need leadership and we want patriots,” he added. “We are really looking for well-rounded individuals who can provide and obtain practical experience to help us provide our mission for the Warfighter, but also to help shape their careers.” For more information about internships and careers with the agency, visit disa.mil.
BU MVSC FILLS BACKPACKS FOR HOMELESS VETS For the sixth straight year, the Bellevue University Military Veteran Services Center (MVSC) led a community-wide drive to fill and provide backpacks with essential items to military veterans experiencing homelessness. “The things that many of us take for granted mean the world to these veterans,” said Heather Carroll, MVSC Manager. Carroll said the drive is co-sponsored by the Wounded Warrior Project and that more than a dozen other non-profit organizations and community groups donated items such as hand sanitizer, packaged snacks, soap, winter hats, gloves, and boots, and more. Monetary donations and gift cards were also accepted. One unexpected item included in the backpacks is a personal, handwritten note thanking veterans for their service. Kaylene Sasse, ESL Program Director at Bellevue University, coordinated the note writing effort involving multiple volunteers. “I wanted the veteran recipients to feel like this was a gift and not just a handout,” she said. “As a Solder’s Angel and the granddaughter of a deceased WW II vet, I’m always looking for ways to show our service members and vets how much I appreciate their them and their service and sacrifice.”
Locally, several hundred military veterans seek shelter at the Siena Francis House each year; while nationally, about 20 percent of all homeless persons are veterans. Traditionally, the filled backpacks are presented at a Veterans Day flag ceremony at Siena Francis House. However, this year, no ceremony was held due to the pandemic and backpacks were dropped off at the shelter. Carroll said that 50 backpacks have already been distributed to veterans and the remainder will be provided throughout the year.
Bellevue University students Raynier Harrington (Ray) and Sandy HernandezJones helped lead the project as part of their Kirkpatrick Series Service Project. “Last year, 75 backpacks were donated to the Siena Francis House,” Harrington said. “We increased that number to 98 this year and were able to help even more military veterans.”
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Bellevue University Named a
“2020 Great College to Work For©” Special Honor Roll Recognition for Top Ranking Across Multiple Categories
The 2020 survey results show that Bellevue University: • Had a 77% overall average score – up from 71% last year. • Improved in the categories of Job Satisfaction/ Support, Teaching Environment, Shared Governance, Faculty, Administration & Staff Relations and more. • Ranked “Very Good” in eight categories: Job Satisfaction/Support; Teaching Environment, Compensation, Benefits & Work/Life Balance, Facilities, Pride, Supervisors/Department Chairs, Senior Leadership and Faculty, Administration & Staff Relations.
Bellevue University is one of the best colleges in the nation to work for, according to a survey by The Great Colleges to Work For® program that was published in The Chronicle of Higher Education. Bellevue University was also distinguished on the survey’s Honor Roll, an additional recognition for outstanding institutions.
The results are based on a survey of 221 colleges and universities from across the country. In all, 79 of the 221 institutions achieved “Great College to Work For” recognition for specific best practices and policies. Results are reported for small, medium and large institutions, with Bellevue University included among the medium institutions.
Bellevue University is among 79 institutions nationwide that received the award this year. A total of 42 institutions are on the Honor Roll. This was the second year Bellevue University has been named a “Great College To Work For.”
Bellevue University was honored across multiple categories in 2020 and because of that received Honor Roll recognition. The survey results are based on a two-part assessment process. An institutional questionnaire captures employment data and workplace policies, while a survey administered to faculty and staff captures employee views.
“Bellevue University is a great place to work because of its culture and mission,” Bellevue University President Mary Hawkins said. “Our staff and faculty share a passion for students, learning and innovation — and these strong values create a resilient culture which permeates our students’ experience and the workplace experience.”
The Great Colleges to Work For program is one of the largest and most respected workplace recognition programs in the country. ModernThink, a strategic human capital consulting firm, administers the survey and analyzes the data.
For more information about the survey and results, visit the Great Colleges program website at greatcollegesprogram.com.
