Galveston College 2023 Annual Report to the Community

REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 2023

OUR MISSION AND GOALS

VISION

“Galveston College - a beacon of light guiding lifelong learning�”

MISSION

The mission statement of the College is: “Galveston College, an innovative public post-secondary institution dedicated to student success, teaching, and learning, creates accessible learning opportunities to fulfill individual and community needs by providing high-quality educational programs and services�”

VALUES

The Board of Regents has developed a list of seven values that are an integral part of the College Mission and Vision� The values reinforce the Board’s desire to provide ethical leadership and are used in making decisions undertaken by the college community as the Mission is operationalized� From the development of strategic goals to the simplest actions and decisions taken by college staff, these values will manifest themselves�

Access Provide an open door to learning while extending accessible education opportunities to qualified students who can benefit from instruction.

Student Success Provide high-quality, learning-centered programs and services that focus on achieving student success�

Integrity Foster a culture of trust, honesty, openness, and fairness, while upholding high ethical standards�

Respect Foster an environment that seeks to understand and values the importance and contributions of each individual

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Foster a culture that affirms and empowers all members of the College community, recognizes that not everyone starts from the same place, where we value, celebrate, and learn from our differences, and all people are treated with respect and dignity��

Culture of Excellence Promote a culture that pursues excellence and supports new ideas and creative endeavors that advance the mission and purposes of the College�

Stewardship Ensure responsible and ethical accountability for the resources entrusted to the College so as to provide the necessary support to foster teaching and learning for today and tomorrow

PURPOSES

In accordance with Texas Education Code, Section 130�003, the College shall provide:

• technical programs up to two years in length leading to associate degrees or certificates;

• occupational programs leading directly to employment in semi-skilled and skilled occupations;

• freshman and sophomore courses in arts and sciences;

• continuing adult education programs for occupational or cultural upgrading;

• compensatory education programs designed to fulfill the commitment of an admissions policy allowing the enrollment of disadvantaged students;

• continuing program of counseling and guidance designed to assist students in achieving their individual educational goals;

• workforce development programs designed to meet local and statewide needs;

• adult literacy programs and other basic skills programs for adults; and,

• such other purposes as may be prescribed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or the Galveston College Board of Regents, in the best interest of postsecondary education in Texas�

GOALS

Access Improve access to quality education by being a student-ready college that focuses on connection and entry processes and excellent programs that serve a diverse student population�

Student Success Advance student success outcomes, consistent with students’ intentions, by working to eliminate barriers, to close achievement gaps and to provide high-quality, learner-centered educational and support service programs�

Employee Success: Continue to invest in and support a highquality and diverse faculty and staff that are focused on student success, a culture of excellence, and advancing the College’s mission and goals�

Institutional Resources: Ensure the College has the financial, physical, and technological resources needed to enhance effective and efficient operations; create inviting, safe and supportive environments; and provide for future expansion.

“ Together, we will continue to build tomorrows for our community through education and help transform the lives of every student who comes to our college in pursuit of a better quality of life.”

MESSAGE

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Galveston College is a wonderful institution of higher education which provides access to educational opportunities for all students and helps improve their lives through academic, cultural and social experience�

Throughout the year, our college community demonstrated unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence, making significant strides toward our shared goal of providing exceptional, affordable education and support to our students� We have experienced several milestones during the past year�

We graduated the first cohort of our new Bachelor of Science Nursing program, opened a new and expanded parking lot, and continued construction on the college’s first major building project in 30 years - a 64,000-square-foot, three-story Health Sciences Education Center on the main campus� In addition, the Whitecaps softball team finished the 2023 season in the Top 20 of the National Junior College Athletic Association rankings and advanced to the regional tournament� All this while we continued to offer outstanding academic courses and programs based on student needs and comfort levels�

I am also proud of the outstanding work of our faculty, staff and students� Their dedication to high-quality instruction and their commitment to student success have truly set Galveston College apart as a leader in higher education

I am grateful for your support and trust in Galveston College� Together, we will continue to build tomorrows for our community through education and help transform the lives of every student who comes to our college in pursuit of a better quality of life

W Myles Shelton President, Galveston College

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

Over the past year, Galveston College has experienced unprecedented development, and remarkable growth and achievements, which have been made possible by the help and support of our community

During Galveston College’s 56th year, we witnessed the next phases in the construction of the new three-story, state-of-the-art Health Sciences Education Center. This magnificent facility will enable us to provide cutting-edge education and training to students pursuing careers in the health care field.

In addition, over 500 students walked across the stage during graduation and a record number of Dual Credit program students earned an associate degree before graduating high school with their diploma�

Student success remains at the forefront of our mission The comprehensive support services and engaging campus life offered by the college provide the necessary resources for students to thrive academically and personally� Galveston College is committed to providing access to higher education for all individuals in our community, inspiring and empowering them to pursue their dreams. Through our robust financial aid programs and scholarships, such as Universal Access, the college strives to remove financial barriers, ensuring that quality education is affordable and accessible to everyone�

The success of Galveston College and our students is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our faculty and staff� Their hard work and commitment to excellence are apparent in the achievements of our students, who are consistently recognized for their accomplishments

As we reflect on the growth and achievements of the college in 2023, I extend my deepest gratitude to our incredible community of students, faculty, staff, alumni and all of our stakeholders� Together, we will continue to elevate Galveston College to new heights and transform lives through education�

Sincerely,

Karen Flowers Chair, Galveston Community College District Board of Regents

THE BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE GALVESTON

Armin Cantini Position 9

Norman S. Hoffman Position 7

Karen F. Flowers Chairperson - Position 3

Raymond Lewis, Jr. Position 4

Garrik Addison Position 8

Fred D. Raschke Vice Chairperson - Position 2

Carolyn L. Sunseri Position 6

Michael B. Hughes Secretary - Position 5

Mary Longoria Position 1

COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT

EYE ON THE FUTURE

GALVESTON COLLEGE NEW HEALTH SCIENCES EDUCATION CENTER TO ENRICH STUDENT LEARNING EXPERIENCE

To meet the needs of local health care employers, the Galveston Community College District Board of Regents approved the construction of a new 64,000-square-foot Health Sciences Education Center at the Galveston College main campus in Sept� 2021�

Designed by PBK Architects of Houston, the Health Sciences Education Center will be three stories tall, with a footprint and layout similar to a medical center, and located at the corner of 39th Street and Avenue R in Galveston The facility will align with the aesthetics of the campus and community and will contain classrooms, laboratories, simulation labs, lecture halls, student study spaces and offices.

The Health Sciences Education Center will house Galveston College’s Nursing programs and nine Health Sciences programs, including: Computerized Tomography, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Emergency Medical Services, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, Surgical Technology and Healthcare Management�

“Galveston College’s new Health Sciences Education Center will benefit our students by enriching their learning experience and the quality of their education,” said Galveston College President, W� Myles Shelton, Ed�D� “With this new facility, Galveston College will be able to better train a highly skilled nursing and health care workforce for Galveston Island and Texas�”

The College’s Health Sciences programs provide students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience from an

industry-experienced faculty All of Galveston College’s Health Sciences programs are taught using a combination of classroom instruction and laboratory or clinical/ practical experience which produces graduates who are ready to enter the workforce�

In addition to associate degrees and certificates, Galveston College boasts two bachelor’s degrees in health care, a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Healthcare Management�

The new facility will allow for the College’s nursing programs to expand and double the capacity of the Radiology, Sonography and Surgical Technology programs The construction of this contemporary instructional facility is part of the college’s strategic plan to cultivate these programs, grow enrollment and provide rewarding employment opportunities to the community�

Galveston College broke ground for the construction of the new $30 million Health Sciences Education Center in June 2022. Six months later, in November 2022, the first steel girders were erected and the frame for a portion of the new facility was noticeable�

In January 2023, Galveston College rang in the new year with a Topping Off Ceremony to celebrate the timehonored construction tradition of the placement of the last structural beam on a building project. The construction phase of the Health Sciences Education Center neared its completion in 2023�

JANUARY

PTK achieves Five-Star status

The Galveston College Phi Theta Kappa Sigma Gamma chapter achieved the honor of Five-Star status, making Galveston College one of three chapters in Texas to achieve this distinction�

The Galveston College PTK Sigma Gamma Chapter combined academic excellence, student involvement and engagement with community service to accomplish their objectives under the student leadership of Galveston College PTK Sigma Gamma Chapter President John Vela, Secretary Roma Emmett, Treasurer Kendra Henry, Vice President of Public Relations Kailey Hernandez-Baires, lead member Jacqueline Mitchell and member Miranda Donaldson�

GC regent, faculty serve as volunteer judges at GISD Science Fair

Galveston College Regent Mary Longoria, GC Computerized Tomography Program Director Mary Koebele, Healthcare Management Program Director Tirizia York, Nuclear Medicine Program Director Courtney Cross and National Science Foundation Hispanic Serving Institution Project Director Sandra Metoyer served as volunteer judges at the GISD’s science fair on Jan� 12 at Austin Middle School�

New SGA President Trina Woodard takes oath of office

Diagnostic Medical

Sonography program student Trina Woodard was sworn in on Jan� 13 in the Seibel Wing as the new Galveston College Student Government Association president�

Galveston College celebrates Topping Off Ceremony

Galveston College administration, board of regents, foundation board members, donors, faculty and staff gathered on Jan� 17 for the Topping Off Ceremony of the college’s new three-story, 64,000-square-foot Health Sciences Education Center�

During the ceremony, the beam was signed by all those in attendance to commemorate the construction milestone before it was raised into place by crane to the top of the highest point of the Health Sciences Education Center�

Students meet with Texas lawmakers

Galveston College students joined GC President W. Myles Shelton, Ed�D�, at the Texas capitol on Jan� 26, to meet with their state representatives and discuss issues relevant to the student body and the college�

The contingent of GC students met with Sen Mayes Middleton and Rep� Terri Leo-Wilson� Among the issues discussed were the Community College Finance Reform, Texas Education Opportunity Grants (TEOG), cybersecurity and IT modernization, clinical nursing sites and the Texas Transfer Framework�

GC hosts Across the Ocean ceramics exhibit

The Galveston College Fine Arts Gallery hosted “Across the Ocean,” a two-person ceramics exhibition featuring artists Jihye Han and Yeonsoo Kim, on Jan� 30-March 2, including an artist’s workshop on the final day. The exhibition investigated the spectrum between displacement and belonging as a Korean American to claim and locate notions of home�

FEBRUARY

Whitecaps open season

The Galveston College Whitecaps baseball team held off a late-inning surge by Angelina College to defeat the Roadrunners 9-7 before an energetic homeopening crowd on Feb� 5 at Bernard Davis Field to split the double-header�

Whitecaps pitchers combine for no-hitter

Five Galveston College Whitecaps pitchers combined to toss a no-hitter on Feb 7 in a 4-0 win over Spartans Post Grad Academy in the second game of a doubleheader at Bernard Davis Field�

Cole Whorrall was credited with the victory after pitching three solid innings of no-hit ball, including seven strikeouts Cullen Flowers, David Irons, Eduardo Lopez Jr� and Wyatt Wick came on in relief to preserve the no-hitter. The five Whitecaps hurlers struck out a total of 15 batters

Reséndez gives vivid lecture on doomed 16th-century expedition

Visiting UC-Davis History Professor, Andrés Reséndez, gave a vivid presentation during the “My Dream Speaker” Lecture Series on Feb� 9 about the doomed 1527 Pánfilo de Narváez expedition, which included Galveston Island�

GC Theatre presents ‘An Evening of Scenes’

The Galveston College Theatre Department presented “An Evening of Scenes” which showcased scenes, monologues and short plays under the direction of Galveston College Adjunct Theatre Instructor, Eric P. Holm� on Feb� 16-18�

GC softball wins 10 straight games

Galveston College freshman right-hander Karlie Barba pitched five innings of two-hit softball and helped lead Galveston College to a 12-1 victory over Monroe College on Feb 17 at the Lassie League Complex to extend the Whitecaps winning streak to 10 games�

PTK students named to All-Texas Academic Team

Galveston College Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Chapter Treasurer Kendra Henry and member Jacqueline Mitchell were nominated to the prestigious 2023 All-Texas Academic Team�

GC opens new and expanded parking lot

Galveston College students and community members now enjoy an expanded parking lot, which opened the week of March 20, directly across the street from the college’s iconic Moody Hall on the main campus�

The expanded parking lot, located on Avenue Q between 41st and 40th Streets, includes 94 parking spaces, new landscaping, additional lighting, security cameras, more sidewalks, curb stops and improved traffic flow with six entry/exit points.

MARCH

Whitecaps softball ranked in NJCAA DI Top 20

GC’s softball team broke into the National Junior College Athletic Association’s Top 20 rankings released on Feb� 27� The Whitecaps were ranked No 18 with a 15-3 record� GC competes in Region 14 of the 147-team NJCAA Division I�

Theatre students experience, excel at regional festival

Galveston College Theatre Department students and faculty participated in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) at the Abilene Convention Center in Abilene, Texas, where they collaborated with other college and university students�

GC student Chad Keith was selected as the Irene Ryan Acting Nominee Award

Recipient from the GC Theatre Department’s fall production of “Melville & Hawthorne�”

He performed one scene and two monologues for this acting competition�

1,400+ students get inspired at the Sixth Annual Women In Industry Conference

More than 1,400 high school and college students attended the Sixth Annual Women In Industry Conference at the Moody Gardens Convention Center on March 23 to learn about expanding opportunities for women in the petrochemical industry and construction trades�

The students were inspired by women who work in the petrochemical industry and construction trades such as Crystal Davis, a process shift team lead with ExxonMobil, and Amanda Knost, president of the U�S� Gulf Coast at Worley�

In addition, students had the opportunity to talk with college representatives about enrollment, financial aid options and other training-related topics�

Art Gallery holds GC Student Art Exhibition

The Annual Galveston College Student Art Exhibition featuring Academic and Continuing Education student artworks from ceramics, design, drawing and painting classes were on display from March 27-April 25 at the GC Art Gallery�

First Latino Rhodes Scholar recounts scholarly journey at Lecture Series

The University of Texas-San Antonio professor John Phillip Santos presented “A (Different Kind Of) Scholar’s Journey” as part of the Galveston College 2022-2023 “My Dream Speaker” Lecture Series on March 28�

Santos, a native of San Antonio, was the first Latino selected as a Rhodes Scholar and is also an author, journalist and documentary filmmaker.

Students, community flock to GC Island Fest

Galveston College students, local middle and high school students, parents, families and community members took advantage of great weather and the opportunity to explore GC’s programs while having fun and enjoying food, refreshments, games and giveaways during the annual GC Island Fest on March 29 at the college’s main campus�

APRIL

New GC Texas Rho Tau chapter holds inaugural induction ceremony The newly established Rho Tau chapter of Lambda Nu at Galveston College celebrated its first induction and pinning ceremony on April 5 with the induction of 33 GC students and six faculty members�

GC’s Rho Tau chapter was established in 2023 by GC Radiation Therapy Program Director Sandra Hayden and her students� Assisting Hayden as the organization’s advisor is GC Nuclear Medicine Program Director Courtney Cross�

Theatre department presents ‘Love & Information’

The Galveston College Theatre Department performed the profound dramatic comedy, “Love & Information” by Caryl Churchill, on April 20-22 at the Galveston College Fine Arts Building�

Under the direction of GC faculty Eric P� Holm and Liz Lacy, “Love & Information” details how we use technology to interact with one another, for better or worse

MAY

Whitecaps softball wins conference crown

GC PTK Honors Society inducts 54 new students

The Galveston College Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society celebrated the induction of 54 new students during the PTK Dinner and Induction Ceremony on April 13 at the Seibel Wing�

With the induction of the 54 students, GC’s PTK chapter membership increased to 121 members� The college’s fast-growing PTK chapter moved from a one-star chapter in 2021 to a five-star chapter within a year and a half.

Galveston College held off a last-inning rally by San Jacinto College to win the second game of a doubleheader 8-7 on May 3 to claim the NJCAA DI Region 14 South Zone crown�

The Whitecaps finished the regular season with a 37-9 overall record and a 17-5 mark in the South Zone Division and advanced to the Region 14 Tournament in Bossier City, Louisiana�

Community Chorale holds spring concert

The Galveston College Community Chorale presented its spring concert on May 9 at the Moody Memorial First United Methodist Church�

The two-segment concert began with the theme dealing with everyday life, both the challenges and the rewards, and concluded the with the complex feeling of being in love�

GC celebrates the class of 2023

Hundreds of graduates walked across the stage on May 12 at the Galveston College 2023 Commencement Ceremony, held at the Galveston Island Convention Center�

During GC’s 55th annual commencement ceremony, the college conferred 713 degrees and certificates to 586 students, which included 15 dual credit students from Ball High School, and graduated the first-ever cohort from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN)

GC Foundation expands opportunities for students with revised UA guidelines

The Galveston College Foundation Board, in collaboration with key contributors to the Universal Access Community Endowment Scholarship Fund, expanded the UA program criteria for the next two academic years�

Cosmetology students provide ‘Manicures for Moms’

The Galveston College Cosmetology program students visited the Ronald McDonald House Galveston in early May during a special “Manicures for Moms” event and provided spa manicures for wellness and relaxation for all the mothers staying at the Ronald McDonald House while their children were receiving medical care�

Honors students complete field methods course in Costa Rica

A group of 13 Galveston College Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Honors program students took advantage of GC’s weeklong study abroad class in May doing field work at the Texas A&M University Soltis Center for Education and Research in Costa Rica�

The GC students’ coursework in Costa Rica focused on environmental science in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, where they had the opportunity to utilize scientific tools and field methods. All travel costs and field equipment for the students were funded under the National Science Foundation grant�

Whitecaps baseball coach retires

After eight years with Galveston College, five as the Whitecaps Head Baseball Coach, Kevin Lallmann announced his retirement�

Lallmann notched his 400th career win in the 2023 season after GC defeated Alvin Community College 1-0 on April 18 at Bernard Davis Field in Galveston

GC hosts Law Enforcement Career Day

The Galveston College Law Enforcement Academy hosted the 2023 Law Enforcement Career Day on May 23 in the Seibel Wing

Students and community members explored the wide variety of careers available in law enforcement and talked to representatives from local, regional and state law enforcement agencies and organizations in attendance

JUNE

Brian Reinke announced as new head baseball coach

Galveston College announced the hiring of new head baseball coach, Brian Reinke, to lead a new era in the Whitecaps baseball program�

Reinke arrived to GC after coaching The University of Texas-Permian Basin baseball program for the past 17 years, where he compiled 396 career victories�

Summer Kids Camp returns to GC

The Galveston College Summer Kids Camp returned on June 5 with several fun and engaging course options for children ages 8-16 years�

Four week-long sessions were held over the summer and featured courses such as Computer Whiz Kids - JAVA Programming, eSports Apprentice, YouTube Content Creators and Science Exploration – Engineering Camp

and Mad Scientist Camp in chemistry, Cosmetology –Hair Braiding, Cooking – Baked to Perfection, Kids in the Kitchen, Culinary Career Exploration, BLAST Babysitting Basics, Arts & Crafts, Summertime Dance Class, as well as Literature Camps for writing and reading�

GISD bilingual/ESL students visit GC

GISD Bilingual/ESL program students and parents visited Galveston College on June 21 to learn about higher education�

As part of the visit, guest speaker Dr� Jose Zelaya gave a presentation to the future college students about the benefits of pursuing a higher education�

GC Library director serves as panelist at American Library Association conference

Galveston College Library and Learning Resources Director, Telishia “Tee” Murray, was among four guest panelists at the 2023 American Library Association conference held June 22-27 in Chicago�

Murray discussed how the David Glenn Hunt Memorial Library at Galveston College transitioned to an opensource integrated library system

In 2019, the GC Library began the process to transition from a proprietary to the open-source integrated library system, Koha� In the spring of 2020, when the world went into lockdown, the GC Library implemented an integrated library system through Zoom� The implementation included several weeks of online training and testing the system to ensure all data was successfully migrated�

JULY

TRIO Upward Bound students win competition, visit university campuses

Galveston College’s TRIO Upward Bound, a federally funded college preparation program, bridged or

transitioned their class of 2023 graduates into college over the summer, which included intercollegiate competition and university campus visits�

GC UB students visited Texas A&M UniversityGalveston, Texas Southern University, the Museum of Natural Science, and participated in and won a TRIO Pre-College Academic Bowl Competition The competition included competitions in math, science, College Bowl, persuasive speech, spelling, artistic expression and a few sporting events�

GC host Workforce Programs Job Fair

Galveston College hosted a Workforce Programs Job Fair and Hiring event on July 27, 2023, at the college’s main campus

The job fair focused on industries such as electrical and electronics, welding, instrumentation, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration, cosmetology and health care�

TRIO Upward Bound students complete summer slate

It was an active summer for 70 of Galveston College’s TRIO Upward Bound students

The students participated in academic courses that challenged them to gain a further understanding of the classes they will be taking at Ball High School during the next academic year� UB offered courses in Algebra, Explorations in Literature, Creative Coding,

Data Science, Forensic Science, College Readiness and Financial Literacy, Basketball and Zumba, to name a few�

AUGUST

Whitecaps hurler leads League City team to American Legion title

Galveston College left-handed pitcher Jacob Cyr tossed a complete-game shutout to lead the League City Post 554 baseball team to a 1-0 victory over Lincoln, Nebraska in mid-August to win the American Legion World Series at Keeter Stadium in Shelby, North Carolina�

Cyr, who made 16 appearances for GC as a freshman, allowed six hits, walked one and struck out three opposing batters to claim the championship game victory for League City Post 554�

Faculty and staff welcomed back at Fall General Assembly

Galveston College faculty and staff were given a warm welcome back for the new academic year by GC President Myles Shelton during the Fall 2023 General Assembly on Aug� 18 in the Seibel Wing�

During General Assembly, Dr Shelton provided a State of the College address, which also included a strategic planning and legislative update� In addition, GC administrators provided updates regarding instruction, student services and administration�

GC welcomes students for fall 2023 semester

Galveston College welcomed students to campus for the fall 2023 semester on Aug 28 during the college’s Welcome Week�

A few days earlier, students who reside on campus were given a warm welcome during move-in day on Aug� 23�

SEPTEMBER

Art Gallery hosts Faculty Art Exhibition

The Galveston College Art Gallery hosted the GC Faculty Art Exhibition, from Sept� 7-Oct� 7�

The Faculty Art Exhibition featured artwork by GC faculty artists: Amanda Barry Jones, Ann Wood, Lisa Marie Kress, Sharon Hendry and Sandra Viser

GC and GC Foundation celebrate Whitecaps Day

Galveston College and the Galveston College Foundation (GCF) celebrated the college’s 56 years of service to the community by hosting Whitecaps Day on Sept� 18�

To commemorate the day GC first opened its doors in 1967, the GCF and Development office created a festive atmosphere in Moody Hall for faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members� Whitecaps Day featured a video display of alumni who work at the college, free popcorn and candy, a selfie station and a one-of-a-kind tie-dyed T-shirt sale created by current GC Art program students�

GC and GISD co-host Hispanic Heritage Month Extravaganza

Galveston College and the Galveston Independent School District collaborated to present a Hispanic Heritage Month Extravaganza event for GISD Bilingual/ESL program students and parents at the college’s Abe and Annie Seibel Wing on Sept 18

Students and parents were treated to a Hispanic community leader panel discussion on higher education, ballet folklórico presentations, food from various Latin American countries, adult education resources, door prizes and other giveaways

Students network at Gulf Coast Industry

Forum

Galveston College Electrical/Electronics Technology and Welding Technology program students attended the Gulf Coast Industry Forum, an economic alliance of the Houston Port Region on Sept� 21 and networked with industry professionals�

During the event, the students talked with representatives from Chevron, The Port of Houston and Turner Industries, among others�

GC hosts American Academy of Coders Symposium

Galveston College hosted the Galveston Chapter of the American Academy of Professional Coders fall “Surf’s Up for Coding” medical coding symposium on Sept� 30 in the college’s Abe and Annie Seibel Wing

More than 60 attendees enjoyed a full day of training and informational sessions on medical coding and other industry trends�

LEA receives new training vehicle

The GC Law Enforcement Academy received a new set of wheels for cadets to practice their driving skills in the form of a 2023 Dodge Charger GT Blacktop

The new LEA vehicle has a 3 6-liter V-6, 24V VVT engine with a 300-horsepower rating, and is equipped with Whelen Inner Edge light bars and a 100-watt siren

At a cost of $36,865, the new vehicle was funded by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s True Grant�

STEM Discovery Seminar students dissect lionfish Galveston College students from the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Discovery Seminar learned about the invasive lionfish during a fall semester dissection project.

The STEM students dissected lionfish which were removed during the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary (FGBNMS) Lionfish Invitational, a scientific effort to document the invasive lionfish situation in the sanctuary and remove as many as possible�

OCTOBER

STEM Career Panel shares experiences with GC students

Seven professionals in a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) career fields provided insight into STEM-related careers to a roomful of Galveston College students during a STEM Career Panel on Oct 2 in the Abe & Annie Seibel Wing

The seven panelists included Michael Merritt, Lab Tech I for Karbach Brewing Company, Dr� Irma Cisneros, Director for Neuroinfectious Diseases at the University of Texas Medical Branch, Alejandra Martinez, seventh grade Science Teacher for the Eagle Pass Independent School District, Jessica Rydlund, Core Technician at Lonza, a biotech manufacturing company, Michelle Johnston, Research Coordinator and Acting Superintendent for the

Flower Garden Marine Sanctuary, Kait Brogan, Vessel Operations Coordinator for NOAA Corps with Flower Gardens Banks and Luis Hernandez, Lead Systems Analyst and Database Administrator for Galveston College�

GC celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with second annual fiesta

Latin American rhythms permeated throughout the Galveston College main campus hallways as the Hispanic Serving Institution celebrated its Second Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Fiesta on Oct� 9 in the college’s atrium�

Students, faculty and staff enjoyed Loteria, papel picado and coloring activities, as well as aguas frescas, traditional sugar cookies and a limited edition T-shirt giveaway celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month�

LEA graduates cadet class #36N

The GC Law Enforcement Academy graduated the Cadet Class #36N on Oct� 9 in the Abe and Annie Seibel Wing at the college’s main campus� The cadets were part of the cohort of academy students that attended classes at night�

Nursing students attend TNSA conference, GC student elected regional director

For the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, nursing students from the Galveston College Chapter of the Texas Nursing Students’ Association (TNSA) had the opportunity to attend the association’s annual conference in Austin on Oct 12-14

A delegation of nine GC nursing students represented the college’s chapter of the association and were accompanied by faculty advisors Jeff Eubanks and Maddie Strawn at the TNSA Annual Conference�

During the conference, students had the experience of witnessing parliamentary procedure and the voting of resolutions� As part of that process, GC Level One nursing student Christopher Trajan was nominated by his peers and voted to represent local nursing schools as the Eastern Regional Director for the state�

GC Theatre presents ‘All in the Timing’

The Galveston College Theatre Department presented “All in the Timing: Six One-Act Plays,” from the master of short form, playwright David Ives, Oct 18-19�

“All in the Timing” is a collection of six one-act plays created and conceived throughout the late 1980s into the early 1990s�

Each of the works in the collection suggests to us that communication is largely a comedy of errors�

Welding students selected for Advanced Manufacturing Mentoring program

A dozen GC welding students were selected among a competitive field of applicants to participate in Turner Industries’ inaugural class of its Advanced Manufacturing Mentoring program for community college students

As part of the mentoring program, the welding students had the opportunity to learn interpersonal and practical skills, and insights to help them succeed in their career and to see an actual manufacturing environment

Nursing students volunteer at Houston Airshow

GC Vocational and Associate Degree Nursing program students volunteered at the 2023 Commemorative Air Force Wings Over Houston Airshow at Ellington Airport in Harris County

The GC Nursing Department helped support the UTMB Aerospace Medical Department by assisting in manning the various venues for First and Basic Medical Care at the yearly scheduled three-day event�

NOVEMBER

GC recognized by Texas Success Center

Based on outstanding accomplishments and dedication to student success, Galveston College was recognized with the Rose Award by the Texas Success Center for GC’s work on Pillar 4 of the Pathways model, which is focused on ensuring students are learning, during the center’s Talent Strong Texas Pathways Institute held Nov� 1-3 in Houston�

PTK

making a difference in the community

The GC Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society Chapter showed its dedication and support to community service by participating in Galveston’s Hobo Breakfast event on Nov� 4�

Organized by GC PTK Honor Society Chapter Vice President, Jacqueline Mitchell, members and other officers distributed 75 toiletry kits� Although simple, these items can have a significant impact on the well-being and self-esteem of those who receive them�

Island’s culinary stars shine at GC’s Five Fabulous Chefs

Galveston College teamed up with a quintet of Galveston Island’s finest chefs to host the 2023 Five Fabulous Chefs culinary celebration event Nov� 14-15 in the college’s atrium�

The sold-out culinary celebration featured five of Galveston’s top chefs, including Chef Megan Walker from the Saltwater Grill, Chef Alena Pyles from EATcetera, Chef Edgardo “Rico” Caminos from Riondo’s, Chefs P�J� and Tara Head from Koop’s BBQ Kitchen and Catering, and Chef Phil Bouza from the Galveston Country Club�

GC President welcomes community to GED Summit

Galveston College President W� Myles Shelton, Ed�D�, welcomed the business community to the 11th Annual Galveston Economic Development Summit on Nov� 29 as Chair of the Galveston Economic Development Partnership

In addition to emceeing the summit, held at Texas A&M University at Galveston, Dr� Shelton participated in a lively Galveston Education panel discussion, which included Galveston Independent School District Superintendent, Matthew Neighbors, Ed�D�, Texas A&M University at Galveston Associate Vice President for Academic Operations, Donna Lang, Ed�D�, and University of Texas Medical Branch President, Jochen Reiser, M�D�, Ph�D�

DECEMBER

Theatre presents holiday classic

The Galveston College Theatre Department presented “A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play,” based on the novella by Charles Dickens, Dec� 5-9�

GC Theatre company members Eva Arita, Elijah Barrie, Daniella Fink, Alyssa Gudz, Chad Keith and Jackson Pendergrass brought the holiday classic to life as a

live 1940s radio broadcast, complete with vintage commercials for fruitcake (extra-fancy), and the magic of live sound effects and musical underscoring�

GC Community Chorale performs holiday concert

The Galveston College Community Chorale, under the direction of Michael Gilbert, presented their annual holiday concert on Dec� 10 at Moody Memorial First United Methodist Church�

“Angels Sing” was the theme for the holiday concert and featured several selections referencing the singing of angels such as “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”, “Angels We Have Heard on High”, and a new piece titled “When Angels Sing�”

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE: EMPLOYEES

GC EMPLOYEES RECOGNIZED FOR SERVICE AND PERFORMANCE

Galveston College celebrated its employees for their service and performance on May 5 during the college’s annual award ceremony at the Seibel Wing�

Seven faculty and staff members were selected among 110 nominations for Employee Performance Awards in four categories: Professional/Technical, Adjunct, Classified and Faculty.

The Employee Performance Award winners were:

• Professional/Technical: Assistant Director of Admissions & Records, Andrea Wiste�

• Adjunct: Adjunct Government Instructor James Gaddy�

• Classified: Maintenance Technician Anthony Sanabria, Administrative Assistant JoAnn Palomo and Human Resources Payroll/Benefits Specialist Joyce Landry�

• Faculty: Science and Business Division Director and Chemistry Professor, Ana Sanchez, Ph�D�, and Communications Program Coordinator and Speech Professor, Janene Davison, Ph�D�

Service awards were presented for faculty and staff who have served GC for 5, 10, 15, 25, 35 and 45 years

Five Years:

• Jay Castillo

• Trish Himebaugh

• Sandra Metoyer, Ph�D�

• Van Patterson, Ed D

• Jaime Retiz

• Rosie Rios

• Bart Stephenson

Ten Years:

• Deon Botha

• Laimutis Bytautas, Ph�D�

• Jeffrey Eubank

• Fred Khoury

• Fred Raschke

• Patty Reyes

• Elvia Segura

• Jason Smith

• Donna Swartz

Fifteen Years:

• Larry Blomstedt, Ph�D�

• Laura Clouser

• Brenda Reeves

Twenty-Five Years:

• Maria Garcia

• Polly Martin

Thirty-Five Years:

• Michael Berberich

• Jose Ortiz

Forty-Five Years:

• John Rimar

Retirees:

• Judy Hembd (Jan� 2023)

• Carmen Mendez (Aug� 2022)

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE: FACULTY

GC PROFESSORS RECOGNIZED BY NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR STAFF AND ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Galveston College professors Janene Davison, Ph�D�, and Ana Sanchez, Ph�D�, were recognized as National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award recipients�

Both Davison and Sanchez were selected after they were nominated for the GC Outstanding Faculty Award by their peers – other GC faculty and staff�

Davison is a professor and Speech program director, as well as the Quality Enhancement Plan director for GC� Davison has served at GC since 2009

“It was a privilege to be nominated by Galveston College for the NISOD Excellence Award,” said Davison “I really enjoyed the awards banquet where I met colleagues from around Texas, and I got to hear their inspiring stories� I came away from the conference refreshed and full of new ideas�”

Among Davison’s accomplishments and contributions over the past year, she attained the rank of professor, presented at the Texas Community College Teachers Association Conference, received a grant to participate in the Great Questions Foundation Workshop, updated the Public Speaking course, started the GC Great Questions faculty reading group, is the FORTES chair and copresented at the spring 2023 GC Faculty Assembly�

Sanchez is a professor and Chemistry program director, as well as the Science and Business director for GC� Sanchez has served at the college since 2005�

“I am grateful and honored for this recognition of the passion, perseverance, and long hours I dedicate to my work,” said Sanchez� “During my time at Galveston College, I have had the pleasure of working with students from a wide range of diverse backgrounds� Knowing that my efforts helped them find success both personally and professionally is what motivates me as an educator I am also indebted to my colleagues and friends here at Galveston College� None of this would have been possible if not for their unflagging support and professionalism.”

Sanchez attained the rank of professor and received the American Chemical Society Teacher of the Year award� She is also the director of the Honors Program and the recipient of a $2�8 million grant from the National Science Foundation In addition, Sanchez is one of the mentors of the STEM club and the administrator of the NSF transfer scholarships�

The NISOD Excellence Awards were established in 1991 and provide NISOD member colleges, such as GC, the opportunity to recognize individuals doing extraordinary work on their campuses�

ATHLETICS UPDATES

SEVEN GC BASEBALL PLAYERS NAMED ALL-CONFERENCE

Seven Galveston College baseball players made the National Junior College Athletic Association Region 14 Academic All-Conference team, while three Whitecaps were selected to the All-Conference teams�

Infielder Alfonso Villalobos was selected to the AllConference first team and fellow infielder Hector Rodriguez was named to the second team� GC righthanded pitcher Nathan Campbell was also selected to the second team�

On the academic side, Villalobos and Campbell were once again selected and joined by GC catcher Parker Airhart,

right-handed pitchers Ethan Brister, Dravin Barber and Wyatt Wick�

“It’s an honor to have been selected to the All-Conference first team for baseball and academics,” said Villalobos. “We worked hard as a team on and off the field, and I’m proud that we have been successful in both areas� I love the game of baseball, but I understand that not everyone can make it to the major leagues and you need an education.”

Villalobos, Airhart, Brister and Rodriguez will continue their collegiate baseball careers at four-year universities�

GC NAMES BRIAN REINKE NEW HEAD BASEBALL COACH

Galveston College announced the hiring of new head baseball coach, Brian Reinke, to lead a new era in the Whitecaps baseball program�

Reinke arrives to GC after coaching The University of Texas-Permian Basin baseball program for the past 17 years, where he compiled 396 career victories�

“Coach Reinke was the candidate of choice because he is a seasoned baseball professional,” said GC Athletic Director Kelly Raines. “It is not just about baseball for Coach Reinke, but the complete student-athlete and I believe this is where he excels� He is a teacher on and off the

field. I have known Coach Reinke a long time and I believe he is the perfect fit for Galveston College�”

Reinke will become the Whitecaps’ ninth head baseball coach in program history

“The vibrant and rich history of Whitecaps baseball needs to be revered and honored,” said Reinke� “I am looking forward to continuing to build a championship program at Galveston College and make leaders of men that will play and proudly represent the Whitecaps and the Galveston community� We want everyone in Galveston to be proud of our baseball program and I look forward to building new and lasting relationships in the community�”

Coach Brian Reinke

GC SOFTBALL ENDS SUCCESSFUL SEASON WITH SEVERAL ACCOLADES

Galveston College concluded a successful season full of accomplishments, which include winning the NJCAA Division I Region 14 South Conference title, qualifying for the Regional Tournament, finishing the season with a Top 20 national ranking, the selection of nine Whitecaps softball players to the All-South Conference first team and All-Region second team, as well as claiming the All-Region Coaching Staff of the Year�

“It has been quite a year for us and we’re excited about the possibilities for next season,” said Galveston College Athletic Director and Head Softball Coach, Kelly Raines “We exceeded our expectations during the season and although we were disappointed in not advancing beyond the regional tournament, we are proud of what the team accomplished� We have a talented group of players, a solid coaching staff and I’m looking forward to building on this year’s success ”

Raines is assisted by GC Assistant Coach, Rome McNary, who joined the Whitecaps in 2022.

AUSSIE

TRIO HELPS WHITECAPS SUCCEED

“I’m proud of our players and all their accomplishments over the course of the season,” said McNary� “I don’t think they fully realized what they had accomplished, winning the South Zone, qualifying to regionals and being ranked among the Top 20 NJCAA DI teams in the nation� It was a season they will remember and one we will continue to build on�”

Whitecaps pitcher Karlie Barba, catcher Maria Andrade, infielders Aviana Gonzalez and Emily Parks, outfielder Jessica Munro and utility player Gabby Guzman were all selected to the Region 14 All-South Conference first team and All-Region second team, while infielder Samantha Gonzalez was named to the All-South Conference second team

In addition, GC outfielders Jasmine Peña and Kamyrn Cottrell, and infielder Aviana Gonzalez were named to the Academic All-Conference team�

Australian softball players Tallulah Civoniceva, Amaya Foxover and Sophie Lawrence joined the Whitecaps for the 2023 season and, with the help of GC Head Softball Coach Kelly Raines and their teammates, they seamlessly adapted to the lifestyle and level of play at a National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division I college

“They’re a great group of talented student-athletes with an amazing work ethic and we’re excited to have them as part of the team,” said Raines

“We all get along really well and everyone has the same goal in mind, they want to do well,” said Foxover. “Everyone backs each other up on and off the field. Having trust in one another is really important�”

STUDENT SUCCESS: ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENT

GC PLAYER DEVELOPMENT LANDS FOUR STARTERS AT 4-YEAR UNIVERSITIES

Among the many reasons the Galveston College baseball program is a premiere destination of choice for national and international ballplayers is its player development, which helps players move up the baseball ranks, continue their education and be good human beings�

Four Whitecaps who benefited from GC’s player development and moved on to four-year university baseball programs after the season are catcher Parker Airhart, right-handed pitcher Ethan Brister, shortstop Hector Rodriguez and infielder Alfonso Villalobos.

Airhart moved a short drive up I-45 to play NCAA Division I ball at the University of Houston, Brister headed to play at NCAA Division III school, East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Villalobos went on to NAIA Division I Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida and Rodriguez moved to the Alamo City to play for The University of TexasSan Antonio�

“A college education has always been really important to me and my family so it’s a big thing to know where I’m going and that I’ll be getting a little bit of financial help with that, as well as getting a chance to play on the big stage,” said Airhart, a Sugar Land native� “Galveston College has a really good program for catchers, a history of developing catchers and getting them to good schools so that was what pulled me here, and it paid off ” Villalobos, one of the Whitecaps international players, who is originally from Caracas, Venezuela, but has resided in Kirkland, Quebec, Canada since he was 12 years old, is grateful for the opportunities he has received by playing at GC�

“Living on the island was a great opportunity I’m lucky that my academics and baseball have been able to pay for my school most of the time,” said Villalobos� “It’s something my parents are grateful for that I’ve been able to go to school and get my education at an affordable price�”

GC SOFTBALL PLAYERS TO PLAY AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-SAN ANTONIO

Galveston College softball players Gabby Guzman and Emily Palacio are headed to San Antonio to continue their collegiate careers and play for Texas A&M University-San Antonio next season

In 2023, Guzman and Palacio helped the Whitecaps to a nationwide Top 20 ranking in the National Junior College Athletic Association, a Region 14 South Conference title and a berth in the Regional Tournament�

Guzman played first base and was one of GC’s top hurlers in 2023, posting a 17-4 regular season record, meanwhile Palacio patrolled second base for the Whitecaps�

“We’re very proud of the great season we had and of the opportunity for two of our players to continue to pursue their education and softball careers,” said GC Athletic Director and Head Softball Coach, Kelly Raines “Gabby and Emily are talented players and good students, and

they have shown it on and off the field.”

In addition to the opportunity to play at TAMU-San Antonio next season, Guzman was also a Region 14 All-South Conference first team and All-Region second team selection

“I had a great experience at Galveston College and I’m happy for the opportunity to continue playing softball,” said Guzman� “I’m proud of my teammates for a great season and everything we accomplished�”

GC finished the 2023 season with a 38-11 record overall and captured the Region 14 South Conference title with a 17-5 mark

Alfonso Villalobos

Hector Rodriguez

Ethan Brister

Parker Airhart

Emily Palacio

Gabby Guzman

STUDENT SUCCESS: ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

GC DUAL CREDIT STUDENT COMPLETES DEGREE ONE YEAR BEFORE GRADUATION

After completing his associate degree prior to starting his senior year at Ball High School in August 2022, Tate Burchfield walked across the stage during the Galveston College Commencement ceremony on May 12 , 2023 at the Galveston Island Convention Center to receive his degree�

Burchfield, who was enrolled as a dual credit student through Galveston College, received his associate degree in General Studies, along with 14 other dual credit students, and is looking forward to transferring to a four-year university�

“It’s a great feeling because as I was entering the college decision and application process, I had these college credit hours that I already completed,” said Burchfield. “Having an associate degree shows other colleges and universities that I’m ready to learn, and it takes a lot of weight off my back because I don’t have to think about the 60 hours that I would have had to do at a university times the amount I would have to study and take finals.”

In addition to having an associate degree in-hand, the GC graduate also walked away from his first college experience debt-free�

“It’s great that we have the dual credit program at Ball High through Galveston College that has allowed me to do this, basically debt-free,” said Burchfield. “I don’t have to pay 10 times as much and it was an economical option I tried out and it paid off�”

“Dual Credit gives students a great college head start,” added GC Director of Educational Services, Elvia Segura. “It also helps our student’s families financially since academic and workforce college courses taken while in high school have lower tuition� In the long run, everyone benefits from Galveston College’s Dual Credit program� ”

Although Burchfield completed his associate degree in record time, it wasn’t all studying� At Ball and GC, he was involved in several extracurricular activities such as Honor Society, Thespian Society, Ball High School Choir and volunteers at a few community organizations�

“Tate is the only student who has graduated from Galveston College one full year prior to graduating from high school,” said Segura� “He is a very involved student in his clubs and organizations, and is a member of Galveston College’s PTK Honor Society, all while toggling courses and responsibilities between two campuses

Tate Burchfield

2,119

539

678

FY2023 FINANCIAL REPORT

REVENUE

EXPENDITURES