WAJC February 2019 by Jackson College

CENTRAL CAMPUS / JACKSON

FEBRUARY 2019 / VOLUME 1 / ISSUE 2

Impacting the community

HIGHER EDUCATION BRINGS JOBS, MONEY, CULTURE, TALENT, IDEAS AND MORE Educating students. Enhancing the community. Jackson College provides public good to the communities it serves in many ways. EDUCATING STUDENTS Completing a college education and earning a credential of value represents the College’s most significant impact. And significant it is … each year, between 7,000 and 8,000 students enroll at Jackson College.

“These opportunities provide significant benefits to high school students and parents alike,” said Dr. Daniel J. Phelan, Jackson College president and chief executive officer. “Specifically, students seeking additional academic challenge can gain experience by participating in this effort. Students are also reducing the amount of time to earn a college credential through dual enrollment.”

Jackson College continues to focus on better ways to educate its students. Navigators have been hired to assist students in their academic journey. Academic programs and majors are grouped into clear career pathways. Efforts continue toward more competency-based education and creation of seven-week classes to make completion and success easier for students.

ECONOMIC Jackson College makes a significant economic impact on the region. The College’s academic offerings supply employers with workers for their businesses. Money spent by the College, its employees and its students support the local economy. Employees live and work in our communities, spending their paychecks for local goods and services. The College employs 221 full-time employees and 282 part-time employees. The State of Michigan benefits from increased tax receipts and saves money on public sector costs, because an educated population generally has lower unemployment rates and lesser need of public assistance. They pay local taxes to help with community costs like repairing the roads, supporting local police, fire and municipal JC total government. economic impact

The College also offers education to incarcerated students through its Prison Education Initiative (PEI). More than 700 students are currently enrolled at seven state correctional facilities and one federal facility. Research by the VERA Institute for Justice indicates that participants in prison education programs are 43 percent less likely to return to prison after release. These students gain knowledge and skills to start careers after release, contributing back to society.

CORPORATE AND CONTINUING EDUCATION Helping employers train their workforce, Corporate and Continuing Education can customize training to fit many needs. General workforce training, industry pre-certification courses, continuing education for license renewal and personal enrichment courses are just a few of the ways to help today’s employees stay up-to-date. CCE provides opportunities to hundreds of workers and individuals in Jackson County. The Michigan New Jobs high school students Training Program (MNJTP) gives employers a competitive are taking edge and trained workforce.

HIGH SCHOOL DUAL ENROLLMENT/ EARLY COLLEGE More high school students are earning college credits earlier than before with early college and dual enrollment opportunities. There are now 1,011 high school students enrolled in college classes. Students can earn early college credits while still in high school, college classes saving money on tuition and increasing “A skilled workforce is the single their most critical element of innovation likelihood of and success, but the hardest asset for completing their manufacturers to acquire,” said Laura Wright, degree. Dual human resources manager at Technique, a enrollment has prototype and ultra-low volume production offered high manufacturer in Jackson. “The partnership school students that we have developed through the MNJTP the chance to program has been used to grow the skillset of enroll in college the future leaders of Technique. Because of classes for this partnership, what we are seeing today is years, and a highly skilled, motivated and competitive these continue. workforce striving to continue to learn in our culture of training and development.”

1,011

$400

On average, the economic impact of Jackson College MILLION to the region totals per year about $400 million per year, according to recent statistics. Since 2009, the College and its former students accounted for an average of 2.93 percent of the total Gross Regional Income of the service area. STUDENT INVESTMENT A college education offers students the opportunity to learn skills they will need to gain and maintain productive employment. While college is an expense, it is also an investment. Students see a favorable average benefit–to-cost ratio of $4.78 for every $1 spent, and an average return of 16.73 percent on their investment. More learning truly equals more earning. If you finish high school and go on to college, you will have a wider variety of jobs to choose from, and you will earn more— especially over a lifetime. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FEB. 9 Sportsman’s Banquet

FEB. 16: Best of Broadway: The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber

*****ECRWSS***** Local Postal Customer

FEB. 23: Late Nite Catechism 3: ‘Til Death Do Us Part’ MARCH 2 Jim Brickman and Melissa Manchester

MARCH 22 Sip, Savor, Support, Athletic Fundraiser

APRIL 14: Sara Evans

MARCH 24 Jackson Community Concert Band Spring Concert

APRIL 12 The Underwater Bubble Show

APRIL 20: Easter Egg Hunt

2111 Emmons Road Jackson, MI 49201-8399

xxx, MI PERMIT NO.

PAID

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

•

WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE

COLLEGE MOVES TO MORE SEVEN-WEEK CLASSES Our Total Commitment to Student Success (TCS2) is more than a catchphrase; it defines everything that we do. Our latest TCS2 effort at Jackson College is expanding seven-week class offerings. Seven-week classes offer the same level of quality teaching, support, content and classroom hours, but in half the time as 15week classes. Students will typically enroll in one or two classes in the first seven weeks, take a week off, and then enroll in one or two classes in the second seven weeks. By fall 2019, the vast majority of courses will be offered in a seven-week format, while a few will remain in the 15-week format. Students will receive more focused time with their instructor and will only need to concentrate on two or three subjects at a time. This may allow students to maintain strong academic momentum in case one of life’s many challenges surfaces. Should one of these “detours” come up in week four or five, persisting to complete seven weeks is much easier than completing 15 weeks. Our benchmarking with other colleges has validated what research on this topic has shown: Shorter semesters work better for students. In fact, students who enroll in these shorter terms have higher success rates, drop fewer courses, and are more likely to complete their college degree. Colleges that have moved to shorter terms, such as Odessa College in Texas and Trident Technical College in South Carolina, have seen significant increases in retention and completion rates for all students as well. We want all of our students to succeed at Jackson College. By changing how we offer education, we hope to help even more of today’s students reach their goal and succeed. Dr. Daniel J. Phelan Jackson College President/CEO

We Are Jackson College • Feb. 2019 • Volume 1 | Issue 2 We Are Jackson College is produced four times annually by the Marketing and Communications Department at Jackson College. If you have comments or questions about the publication call 517.796.8416. Publisher: Cynthia S. Allen • Editor: Dotty Karkheck Writer: Marilynn Fryer • Designer: Abbie Stein Photography: Marketing and Communications JACKSON COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Sam R. Barnes, Chairman • John M. Crist, Vice Chairman Sheila A. Patterson, Secretary • Donna L. Lake, Treasurer Matthew R. Heins, Trustee • Philip E. Hoffman, Trustee Dr. Edward A. Mathein, Trustee Dr. Daniel J. Phelan, President/CEO All rights reserved. No part of the material may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage retrieval system without the permission of the publisher. It is the policy of Jackson College that no person shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, gender, marital status, or handicap, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to, discrimination in any program or activity for which it is responsible for or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education. Jackson College • 2111 Emmons Road • Jackson, MI 49201 517.787.0800 • visit www.jccmi.edu. Jackson College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604 (800) 621-7440 • hlcommission.org

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

SERVICE College students and employees are active in their communities, volunteering for local groups and organizations. Over the past two years, Jackson College employees have volunteered more than 1,000 hours a year. Employees participate in organized service Organized projects at places service hours at like the John George JC totaled over Home, Jackson Friendly Home, public schools, Cascades Humane hours over the Society, Falling past two years Waters Trail and more.

The Potter Center welcomes nearly 50,000 patrons each year, including more than 6,000 school-aged children. The venue is host to the Front Porch Concert Series, Community Concert Band, is the performance home to the Jackson Symphony Orchestra, the Michigan Shakespeare Festival, Miss Jackson Crossroads, and Center Stage Jackson. Area school children may attend inschool performances throughout the year. In the summer, students are invited to participate in band camp. Free College Day offers the community a sneak-peek at college classes but in a fun, informative event.

According to Independent Sector, a national membership organization that represents nonprofits, foundations and other community organizations; the value of a volunteer hour performed in 2018 is $24.69. Volunteered As such, employees, through hours valued Convocation service projects at over alone, have provided more than $50,000 in valuable service to the community over the past two years.

In addition, more than a hundred various organizations and individuals rent the facilities with a community benefit alone of more than $100,000 annually. Real estate companies, economic development groups and large employers use the cultural attractions as a recruitment tool to the region.

1,000

$50k

In addition, students regularly volunteer in their communities. Students have volunteered to serve meals at the Interfaith Shelter, nursing students present informational sessions at the shelter and take blood pressure readings at Jackson Crossing. Sports teams have reached out to help with community events like the Childrenz Challenge, have taught children the finer points of their game, and have cleaned up our communities.

CARBON FOOTPRINT One area where Jackson College strives to lessen its impact is in its carbon footprint, the amount of greenhouse gases, usually carbon dioxide, produced. An increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere could lead to overall warming of our climate. To help lessen this, College buildings run on smart building systems for lighting and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controls, and utilize efficient plumbing fixtures. Sustainable or “green” products are used in building projects. Computers power down to “sleep” when not in use. Green spaces break up large parking lots. Electrical charging stations for cars are available.

In the Potter Center’s Robert Snyder Dining JOBS Commons, food services have switched Jackson College graduates are employed from disposable to real plates, silverware across the community – from and glassware in the cafeteria area to large employers like Henry Ford Grads with an reduce waste going to the landfill. Allegiance Health and Consumers associate degree All disposable products for catering Energy to private businesses, earn an average and coffee shop are green and local schools and government annual income of compostable, even straws. In offices, to manufacturers. addition, food services is working Having a college education leads with a compost company for all to higher-paying jobs, which compost trash from the kitchen, and enables one to spend more freely, has cut down trash by 25 percent. boosting the local economy. In 2015, students who earned associate PARTNERSHIPS degrees could expect to see an average Jackson College doesn’t accomplish its beginning income of $41,900, which was tasks on its own. It works with hundreds of $8,200 more than individuals with only a high businesses, agencies, offices and organizations school diploma. That increased earning ripples throughout our tri-county region, the state out to businesses and the larger community, and the nation. Partnerships are vital for the benefitting society as a whole. health of any organization. A strong network The recent addition of an internship of partnerships builds possibilities, component, required before graduation, gives benefitting everyone. graduates the real-world experience necessary Just a few of the many partnerships include: to become employees local employers seek. ABC Academy, American Red Cross, Center They are ready to Stage Jackson, Dahlem Conservancy, help companies daVinci Institute, Family Services and grow and expand Children’s Aid, Henry Ford Allegiance their businesses. Health, Jackson Chamber of Commerce, CULTURE Jackson County Intermediate School District, Not only does Jackson Symphony Orchestra, Jackson Area Jackson College Manufacturers Association (JAMA) and Siena boost the economic Heights University. landscape, but the In addition, nearly 200 hospitals, clinics and cultural scene is doctor’s offices partner with Jackson College enriched as well. for clinical sites. Community activities like the Halloween The College’s work-based learning office Spooktacular and the collaborates with 35 local employers to offer annual Easter Egg internship opportunities to local students. Hunt draw thousands.

$41k

FEBRUARY 2019

•

College adds additional 7-week classes to aid in student success To boost the success of students, Jackson College will soon offer more seven-week classes in addition to the traditional 15 weeks.

instruction. “This is Jackson College; we’re focused on student success. This is another way to make that happen,” Thirolf said.

The College maintains what it calls a Total Commitment to Student Success, TCS2, helping all students reach their goal of an associate degree or credential of market value. College officials began looking at the length of the semester and the impact that it may have on student success. Designed with student success in mind, the seven-week classes

HOW IT WORKS Each semester will include two seven-week class times, with a one-week break in between. While a full-time student may take 12-15 credit hours per a 15-week semester, they will now take half that number during each session – 6 to 8 credit hours per seven weeks. Students complete the same number of credit hours per semester, but in this new schedule. Courses will still cover the same content; they will either meet longer each week or combine in-class work with online learning in a hybrid format. For students receiving financial aid, it will not change, as the overall credits per semester will be the same.

should help more students reach their goals. Other community colleges across the nation have made the change and have seen student success rates soar. The College has offered late-starting, shortened courses for years. Now, these efforts will expand. “We began to question some of our basic assumptions, like why 15 weeks?” said Kate Thirolf, vice president for

BENEFITS With students today juggling busy lifestyles with college, sometimes managing four or five classes can be a challenge. In the sevenweek classes, students manage just two or three classes (fewer for part-time students), with more time to focus on each. Should an emergency arise at some point in the semester, persisting to complete in seven weeks would be much more manageable. Other colleges have found success with this new scheduling. Students complete their courses at higher success rates, and although the number of classes balances out across a semester, students say they sometimes feel as though they are getting through their program faster.

Saving Our Stories: Heritage Center’s latest project focuses on sacrifice, courage & friendship Please join us on April 27 when our award-winning Heritage Center students will debut their newest film: Going Home: A Story of Sacrifice, Courage, and Friendship. The film takes us back to the early 20th century when three young men developed a friendship that would last for over 100 years. Bill Maher, Zenneth Pond and Elwood Bailey grew up children of the Great Elwood Bailey Depression and relied on what some call “the Jackson Hustle” to make their way in the world. They were fearless and lived life to the fullest. Each was a pioneer in the early aviation field, and they were taught to fly by one of Jackson Junior College’s champions,

Frank Dove. All found their way to the battlefield; two lost their lives over the Pacific, and one spent a lifetime trying to bring his two friends “home.” “This film is an attempt to show how important it is to remember those who have made sacrifices,” states Professor Diana Agy, director of the Heritage Center. “This is especially true of our veterans and those who have yet to come home. Our Heritage Center students have researched the families and communities that shaped these young men. Their story has become our story – a story of commitment.” The Jackson College Heritage Center collects, preserves and shares stories of our college and community. They

are the 2018 winners of two State awards: Governor’s Award for Service and the Michigan Historical Society Award. This year, past projects will be incorporated into the film and art display, including Jackson During the Great Depression and the It Began with a Dream: Remembering Jackson’s Cascades. Student Jacob Smith is a veteran himself, so the opportunity to work on a history project involving three junior college students who were also Jacob Smith veterans attracted him. “It means a lot to me to be a part of their story,” Smith said. “There are people from here (Jackson College) that impacted the world. I think it’s important to remember those people.”

This will be an afternoon to honor those who have given all they had for us. The Heritage Center’s art project and museum display will be open during the entire month of April in the Potter Center art gallery.

Campus site of solar array test Guests to Jackson College may have noticed the new solar panel array on Central Campus off Emmons Road. This is a test site – a solar photovoltaic power testing station – owned by Cypress Creek Renewables, LLC with space leased by Jackson College. Some of the solar panels are a new “bifacial” design that both attracts solar energy directly from the sun and energy reflected from the ground. It will not tie into the College’s electrical grid at this time as there is too little benefit at this small of scale, but the experience of having the site here helps College officials understand all that is involved for the consideration of a larger future array that would significantly offset daytime electrical charges. This solar array is an electrical production facility. The area is fenced in for safety.

Medical assisting instructor honored for helping students learn Medical assisting instructor Jean Davis equips her students to succeed, preparing them fully for careers. Davis recently received two honors for her teaching, by Jackson College and by Trends in Occupational Studies Conference. Davis has taught at Jackson College since 2014. “Being a good teacher is not always just about teaching students the subject materials they need to comprehend; more often it is about teaching them how to learn and to think, how to apply that knowledge to everyday situations, and how to build on that experience,” she said. “It is rewarding to see the pride they have in themselves when they realize they have succeeded.” “Success as a teacher is seeing a successful graduate who is working in the medical office tell me something I taught them in classes was correct and that they knew how to do that task when their employer asked them to perform it.” Dr. Kristin Spencer, program director, lauded Davis’s achievements. “Jean is one of the most innovative and dedicated instructors I’ve had the pleasure of working with. She goes above and beyond for her students, not only in the classroom but outside as well. To Jean, education is about the student as a whole and she does what she can to help them succeed by providing not just academic support, but emotional support as well.” Student Sharae Brown appreciated Davis’s approach. “Jean is very hands-on; she will not only teach you but will get in and show you. If I ever had a question on how to do a procedure or write a billing statement, she was always one call away,” Brown said. “She was not only a professor but a guide and resource on what would come after the schooling was done. To sum it up, Charles Kuralt stated, ‘Good teachers know how to bring out the best in students.’ Jean has done just that.” “It is such a privilege to be an instructor at Jackson College,” Davis said. “Our students are fantastic.”

•

WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE

ALUMNI PROFILE

New beginnings… High school students now have several options to get an early start and earn college credits, even earning an associate degree at little to no cost!

Jackson College offers educator a great start Dr. William Patterson found a great foundation at Jackson College, helping him become passionate about lifelong learning. Today he works for Jackson Public Schools, helping future generations further their education. Dr. Patterson began at Jackson Community College in 1989, after graduating from Lumen Christi High School. He earned his Associate degree in Science in 1991 and then continued his studies at Eastern Michigan University completing a Bachelor of Science degree with a secondary teaching certification. He later earned a Master of Arts in Education from Spring Arbor University and, recently, his doctorate in K-12 Education Administration with Certification in Urban Education. “One of the things I really enjoyed about Jackson College was meeting people from all over the county,” he said. “The programming gave me a great foundation in education. It helped me explore what I wanted to do in life.” Patterson began teaching in 1998, served as an elementary principal for three years, a middle school principal for 10 years, and currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Curriculum with JPS. He brings a contagious enthusiasm to the job, finding systematic approaches to improving public education. In 2012, Big Brothers Big Sisters honored Patterson as Educator of the Year. The Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principals Association also recognized him with the prestigious Regional Principal Honors Award. Patterson has two daughters (Torie, 8 & Taylor, 11) who attend Jackson Public Schools, so the vital importance of education and improving public education is personal. William enjoys reading, golfing, traveling, and of course, spending as much time as possible with his daughters.

CAMPUS

LOCATIONS

In this issue, we explore opportunities available with the Dual Enrollment, Jackson County Early College, Jackson Area College and Career Connection Early/Middle College Program (JAC3E/MC), and Jackson Preparatory and Early College (JPEC).

DUAL ENROLLMENT

Dual enrollment allows motivated students to earn free college credits while still in high school! Through dual enrollment, students may enroll in both high school and college. They may take courses their freshman, sophomore, junior or senior years, accumulating credits for college and perhaps taking subjects unavailable at their high school. They may start to build their college transcript, getting a head start toward a degree or certificate. To get started, students should speak to their parents, their high school counselor or principal, and the Jackson College Admissions Office, who can help determine whether the student qualifies. Home school students should meet with the College’s admissions office to discuss plans. FIND OUT MORE For more information go to www.jccmi.edu/ admissions or call 517.796.8425.

JAC3E/MC

Job training, work experience and a free college credits – all are benefits of the Jackson Area College and Career Connection Early/ Middle College Program (JAC3E/MC).

“Let’s get the groundwork taken care of so by the time you’re done, when you’re 19 or 20, you already have a great foundation to continue building upon.” – Dan Draper

The Jackson Area Manufacturers Association and The Enterprise Group collaborated with the Jackson Area Career Center, Jackson County Intermediate School District, Baker College and Jackson College on the manufacturing-focused education program, which began five years ago. BUSINESS CONNECTIONS What sets the JAC3E/MC apart from similar middle college programs is the addition of a sponsoring local business organization; students participate in a school-to-registered apprenticeship with JAMA’s Academy for Manufacturing Careers. JAC3 has had or currently has 27 unique companies sponsoring students, showing powerful support for the Jackson community. Students who go through the program learn valuable work and soft skills that put them in demand, especially in today’s tight labor market. “It’s hard to find talented, knowledgeable entry-level people. These are people who can move fast in your organization, who can get in and grow quickly.” Students receive continuing support as they divide their time between school, Career Center and college and with the sponsoring employer. To date, 23 students have completed the program. Thirty students are currently enrolled. FIND OUT MORE For more information, visit www.jacc-mi.net or contact the Jackson Area Career Center at 517.768.5100.

JCEC

A successful first year heralds great things for Jackson County Early College (JCEC). “It’s been an amazing roller coaster ride; a wonderful first year,” said Jean Logan, administrator. More than 400 applied, with 300 enrolled for winter semester, far exceeding goals for the first year.

JAC3E/MC is a unique, three-year learning experience creating a pathway to college and career success for its participants. Students may enroll in JAC3 beginning in their junior year, they may earn their high school diploma, college credit, and a technical/career credential within three years. All this comes with no out-of-pocket tuition costs. “We tell the students that we’re trying to fast-track or accelerate your opportunities in real life, before ‘life’ happens,” said Dan Draper, assistant principal of Career Technical Education and Academic Programs at the Jackson Area Career Center. “Let’s get the groundwork taken care of so by the time you’re done, when you’re 19 or 20, you already have a great foundation to continue building upon.”

CENTRAL CAMPUS 2111 Emmons Road Jackson, MI 49201 517.787.0800

Jackson County’s 12 public school districts, along with the Jackson County Intermediate School District, the da Vinci Institute and Jackson College, created JCEC, which opened in fall 2018. Students may begin their college education as early as their freshman year and continue through year 13. Students may earn a maximum of 60 credits and an

MAHER CAMPUS 3000 Blake Road Jackson, MI 49201 517.768.7097

FEBRUARY 2019

•

TRUSTEE PROFILE

associate degree and/or certificate at a small fraction of the cost. Participation in sports and extracurricular activities is possible at students’ high schools through 12th grade. Students may walk with their peers during commencement and receive their diploma when they complete the program. Classes meet on the Jackson College Central Campus, W.J. Maher Campus, and online distance learning.

Administrator Jean Logan served as a school superintendent previously who helped to develop an early college program, so she brings experience to the new school. With an office on Jackson College’s Central Campus, she regularly communicates with current students to ensure all is well, and interfaces with college faculty and staff if a need arises. SAVE MONEY Families save a great deal by taking advantage of the early college options, where most of the expense is covered. The early college is funded through various school districts’ perpupil allowance. Therefore, the exact funding will change from district to district. SUPPORT TO SUCCEED Early college students enroll in regular college courses. For motivated students ready for the challenge, it is a great opportunity to get ahead. JCEC offers wraparound services to help students succeed, coordinated with college personnel. FIND OUT MORE For more information or to apply go to www.jcisd.org/jcec, or contact Jean Logan, info@jxncec.org, 517.581.2003.

JPEC

JPEC, located on the campus of Jackson College, offering grades 6-13 – is an innovative middle and high school with one additional year. Grades 6-8 are college preparatory, while grades 9-13 are early college, blending both high school and college courses. JPEC is open to all, depending on seats available. SAVE MONEY JPEC is a Michigan Public School Academy and students pay nothing to attend. Students may earn up to 60plus college credits toward completion of an associate degree, a significant savings to students and families. Course fees and textbooks are included.

JACKSON COLLEGE @ LISD TECH 1376 North Main Street Adrian, MI 49221 517.265.5515

“As an early college, one of the founding principles was that we wanted to create an opportunity for all students and families,” Shane Malmquist, JPEC president said. PERSONALIZED LEARNING Students and faculty create personalized learning plans, and students may excel at their own pace. JPEC is a competencybased program, meaning students must show mastery of required skills before advancing. JPEC’s curriculum focuses on essential academic practices, similar to learning outcomes, applied across all subjects. Students must also learn competencies that are course-specific. As students demonstrate both these academic practices and course competencies, they progress. “When students do progress, it is going to happen because they are ready. They’ve developed the necessary soft skills, content knowledge and academic skill to apply those principles,” Malmquist said. PATH TO GRADUATION To graduate, students must demonstrate completion of the Michigan Merit Curriculum, like any other high school graduate. They must complete college coursework; as an early college, that can be at least 15 credits or more. BEYOND THE CLASSROOM In addition to having art and music as core classes, students may participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, clubs and sports – art, music, drama, robotics and athletics. Students may also participate in social activities such as homecoming and prom. OPEN ACCESS “JPEC is a school for any student who is interested in putting forth the effort,” Malmquist said. “We’re not a program designed for a single subset of students. JPEC is another educational choice that provides access, opportunity, and student success in a different way than the traditional options.”

“When students do progress, it is going to happen because they are ready. They’ve developed the necessary soft skills, content knowledge and academic skill to apply those principles.” – Shane Malmquist

LETARTE CENTER 3120 West Carleton Road Hillsdale, MI 49242 517.437.3343

Crist’s love of education shows in his service John Crist believes in education, he is pleased to give back to the College where he got his start. An alumnus of Jackson Community College, Crist completed basic courses before transferring to Ferris State University. “The faculty at JCC helped me in so many ways. If I had a problem, I could go to them and talk to them,” he said. Crist spent 29 years at Consumers Energy in various accounting and benefits roles and served 20 years as president and chief executive officer of CP Federal Credit Union until retiring in 2017. Crist was recognized in 2005 with the Jackson Community College Distinguished Service Award and in 2015 with the Dr. Ethelene Jones Crockett Distinguished Alumni Award for outstanding service. He is active in numerous service organizations, including the College’s Board of Trustees since 2006. He serves on the board of the Jackson College Foundation, Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Board, vice chairman of Michigan Community College Association board, member of the Lions Club of Parma/Spring Arbor, and Kiwanis Jackson Hosts Club. He served as past chair and president of United Way, past chairman of the Jackson Chamber of Commerce, a past board member for the March of Dimes District Office in Lansing, and served on the board of Western Schools for 11 years. He is married to his wife, Jan, and they have four children, seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. As a member of the Board of Trustees and an alumnus, Crist appreciates the spirit of innovation at the College, all in the name of helping students succeed. “I love education. I love to help students and I want students to succeed, so education to me is huge,” he said.

FLIGHT CENTER Reynolds Municipal Airport 3610 Wildwood Jackson, MI 49202 517.787.7012

•

WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE

College family and alumni establish scholarship funds Scholarships help students meet the cost of college. Jackson College employees and trustees recognize the importance of scholarships for students and are giving back by establishing scholarship funds. THE EL CAMINO SCHOLARSHIP Jay and Casey Ponagai are passionate about education and want to take some of the financial burdens off future students. The Ponagais have established a new scholarship to help others. “We wanted to do something to encourage education for others,” Jay Ponagai said. “Both my wife and I come from low-income backgrounds, and I was a first-generation college Jay and Casey Ponagai student myself, so I know the challenges they may face. We wanted to help remove any possible financial barrier.” Ponagai is a Jackson College alumnus who has worked with the College for 3.5 years in information technology. He has been working in computer repair since 1999. While he attended college for a while, he left to go to work. Later, while he was working and successful, he realized he was not truly happy. However, he lacked the tools to make a change. He enrolled at Jackson College to finish his associate degree. “I’d say it was challenging at first, but then I discovered I had a passion for it, and now I love it. I definitely consider myself a lifelong learner.” He is continuing his studies at Arizona State University to complete a bachelor’s degree. The El Camino Scholarship – named after the beloved family dog – will give preference to first-generation students who are eligible for Pell Grants, as determined by the Department of Education. Students may apply through the Jackson College Foundation website. “For me personally, finances were a big barrier when I first started going to college,” Ponagai said. “It didn’t seem like a lot of resources were available to me at the time. Now I am fortunate enough to be in a position to remove those financial barriers for someone else.” PHILICIA TEAMER NURSING SCHOLARSHIP Philicia (Teamer) Richmond works as a Nurse Practitioner at Henry Ford Allegiance Health, the culmination of her own educational journey. Now, she hopes to help others on that same journey.

Philicia (Teamer) Richmond

Richmond returned to college after working in the restaurant industry for many years. She overcame her own self-doubts to pursue the registered nursing program. She is thankful for the support of many at Jackson College, including the assistance of scholarships from the Jackson College Foundation.

“Jackson College and the people there changed my life, on every level,” Richmond said. “The nursing faculty is phenomenal.” In her role as an NP in the Geriatric Psychiatry office, Richmond has the opportunity to help others each day. Because of the assistance she received, Richmond also wants to help others with her own scholarship, the Philicia Teamer Nursing Scholarship. It will be awarded to a second-year nursing major with a grade point average of at least 3.0. “This is a way for me to give back. I received help not only from Jackson College Foundation but also the Jackson Community Foundation scholarships,” she said. “I was so excited that I could finally do that to help another nursing student. The scholarship is available through application to the Jackson College Foundation. Visit the website to apply.

Are you interested in finding more about how to create a scholarship through the Jackson College Foundation? Please contact Jennifer Brooket at 517.990.1353.

WHITE-SMITH LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP After a young life was lost far too soon, the family of the late Montel Smith is keeping his memory alive with a new scholarship at Jackson College, the White-Smith Legacy Scholarship. Montel Smith was a 22-year-old student-athlete at Lansing Community College when a car crash claimed his life in 2015. Parents Jerome and Lexava (White) Smith wanted to honor their son’s memory. Lexava comes from a family of 11, and the majority attended Jackson College, so establishing a scholarship to honor their son and the family just made sense. Montel had attended LCC and Spring Arbor University on basketball Jerome & Lexava Smith scholarships. He was working as a delivery driver for an auto parts company when the fatal crash occurred. “He loved people, and he never met a stranger. People gravitated to him,” mother Lexie Smith said. “Even though we live here in Lansing, we visit Jackson often and have family there. Many people remember him and the impact he had on their lives. That’s why I wanted to do something in his honor.” Because of Montel’s outgoing nature, the scholarship will benefit students going into communications and public relations who have a grade point average of 2.5 or above. Interested students may apply online through the Jackson College Foundation. “We also want to make this from the whole family. Continuing one’s education is not always an option because of finances, we realize that. We want to give people an opportunity and hope that there are scholarships available if you are willing to pursue further education.” THE HAZEL E. BOWLES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Stephanie Kopf’s grandmother taught for 40 years in Jackson Public Schools and touched many people. After her grandmother’s passing this past August, Kopf and family members wanted to create something in their grandmother’s memory. Kopf, an alumnus of Jackson College who now serves on the Jackson College Alumni Advisory Council, created a scholarship to help future generations achieve their dream of a college education. “My grandma was an educator who just loved children and loved people. She affected many people in a lot of different ways,” Kopf said. “This was a good way to give back, to create a scholarship in my grandmother’s name.”

Photo left to right:

Stephanie Koph, Kipp Parker, Lezlie Bowles Kopf recognizes how important scholarships are to students, especially for those who are working full-time or have children to care for. “These scholarships allow people to further their education which helps them improve their lifestyle, grow and develop and give back to our community. It’s a win-win.”

The Hazel E. Bowles Memorial Scholarship will benefit those majoring in education, with a grade point average of 2.5 or above. Created through the Jackson College Foundation, students may apply online for the award. “I know she is smiling right now,’ Kopf said of her grandmother. “She always loved to see people further their education, to be inspired and become lifelong learners.”

FEBRUARY 2019

•

Men’s basketball share their game at YMCA camp Coaches and players met with youth from 4-18, covering basketball drills and stretching, different characteristics needed to be a good person and player, and offering prize giveaways. The event drew about 40 participants each week. “It was great to have so many kids attend the camp and be so well behaved and locked in on learning the fundamentals of basketball,” Norris said. “I believe this was a great start.”

Jackson College Jets men’s basketball team brought their game to the downtown Jackson YMCA this fall! Jets players and coaches provided an affordable basketball camp for kids each Sunday afternoon in October. Jets Coach Marshawn Norris met with a group of leaders about how to use basketball to help kids in the Jackson area. “The kids need something to be excited about year round, and basketball is a sport that can be played year round. In these meetings, we talked about what values we wanted to instill in the kids while using basketball as an aid,” Norris said.

For student-athlete Chase Pierce, working with youth is natural since he is the oldest of 5 in his family. “Whenever I get an opportunity to give back to the community I do it. I do enjoy working with the younger kids,” Pierce said, who has helped with basketball and baseball camps through his high school career at Vandercook Lake. Student-athlete Marcellus Freeman enjoyed the opportunity to share what he knew with the youth. Originally from Texas, he too has helped out with camps in the past. “It helped me to be able to reach out and get in touch with my community as a Jackson College player.”

Women’s basketball teaches Northwest students This fall and winter, the women’s basketball team had fun working with some special needs students from Northwest High School. The Jets women spent two afternoons with the students from Northwest, teaching them the game, making friends and having fun! “We are thrilled for the opportunity to work with Northwest School District and their students,” said women’s basketball coach Heather Brown. “It is a great opportunity for us as a team to help in the community and give back to such special students!” The Jets and the Mounties will continue their relationship this season, both at Central Campus and at Northwest. Northwest students are practicing for an annual basketball tournament at The Kit Young Center in March. “This collaboration has allowed our students to work with college-level students and build friendship, practice social skills and promote physical activity,” said special education teacher Judy Osterberg, Northwest High. “Heather (Brown) and her team have been AMAZING! This opportunity has allowed both NWHS and

Jets softball coaches named Coaching Staff of Year The National Fastpitch Coaches Association recognized Jets softball coaching staff as the NJCAA Division II Regional Coaching Staff of the Year! The staff is comprised of head coach Jamie Vandenburgh and assistant coaches Mick Ream and Tammy Bates. Vandenburgh is in her third year as head coach, Ream is in his fourth, and Bates is in her first year. The Jets softball team celebrated its most successful season in 2018, with a 33-11 overall record. The team finished District 1 Runner Up in the NJCAA Tournament. “This recognition is really a tribute to how hard our players have worked to change the culture of the program,” Vandenburgh said. “They are the ones that really have to commit to our team values and hold each other accountable. Our job as coaches is to give the players the tools to do it but ultimately it is their team; we are just here to guide them!”

Soccer coach knows ins and outs of a winning team After 20 years as a soccer coach, Andrew Hosmer cares about putting together great teams and helping his players have promising futures. Jackson College women’s soccer team completed its most successful season to date in 2018, winning more games, scoring more goals and receiving more post-season individual awards than any previous year. Hosmer has coached women’s soccer for the past decade, since its return to the College, and has seen winning seasons and building seasons. He also coaches soccer at Columbia Central High School and works for Jackson County Facilities Department. BUILDING A TEAM Always evolving, soccer differs from other popular sports because it is a fluid, continuous game like hockey. Players need to be dynamic, flexible and disciplined. Putting together a successful team requires care and balance. Hosmer enjoys the opportunity to recruit players for his college teams, seeking out the right mix for a winning team and sportsmanlike spirit.

JC students to experience inclusion, build friendships and be physically active. It’s a win for all!” For guard Taylor Hutchinson, spending time with these young students makes her day. “The best part, I believe, is when they first get there, and you could just see how happy some of them are to be there. They will come up to us and give us a hug or a high five. It is just an amazing feeling.” Guard Kristaun Boykins agree that working with the young people was a great experience. “It’s been an absolute pleasure to participate in the outreach program. I would definitely jump at future chances to work with similar programs.”

“There is something really positive about having to come together with a bunch of people you didn’t know the day before and starting to forge a corporation to go forward and be successful,” he said. “Sometimes you sacrifice your own goals and dreams to see the vision of the entire group.” How a team comes together can be more important than the talents of the individual players. “We’ve had teams that were more talented than this year’s team but couldn’t come together like this year’s team did. We did a very good job of that.” As a coach, Hosmer enjoys seeing his players be successful and move on. Many have continued their playing careers at four-year universities. Jackson College athletics emphasizes success in academics as well in sport. “To see them learn is very satisfying. Every season I still learn from the players and the game,” he said. “And I like being around the team, it keeps you young.”

FEBRUARY 2019

WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE

•

JACKSON COLLEGE

Corporate and Continuing Education Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) provides highquality training programs. We work one-on-one with employers across multiple industries to develop trainings to meet current workforce demands. In addition, CCE offers continuing education to individuals seeking employment, skills enhancement or personal enrichment.

participants will receive a noncredit Corporate and Continuing Education Certificate of Course Completion.

UPCOMING RAPID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Manufacturing CCE 172: Materials/Metallurgy Starts March 23, 2019 – $229.20

Google IT Support Professional Certificate Training Corporate and Continuing Education will offer a Google IT Support Professional Training, a five-course certificate, beginning in February. Course will combine inperson and online learning. Program includes the following subject topics: • Technical Support Fundamentals • The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking • Operating Systems and You: Becoming a Power User • System Administration and IT Infrastructure Services • IT Security: Defense Against the Digital Dark Arts This certificate program is part of a special IT grant from Google, in partnership with Jobs for the Future (JFF) and Jackson College. Program will be free for a maximum of 10 participants. Visit the website to learn more, or call Bonnie Minier at 517.796.8610. Production Technician Training Mon. - Fri. • Feb. 25 – March 27 (No class 3/13/19 – 3/15/19) 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (break for lunch) Jackson College, Central Campus CCE REDUCED-TUITION COURSES CCE has a limited number of reserved seats, at a reduced price, in credit-bearing classes to allow individuals not pursuing credit to explore our degrees, advance their skill-set, or for employers looking to train a small number of employees. Upon successful completion,

Electronic Technology CCE 221: Industrial Motion Control Starts March 19, 2019 – $405.30 Computer Assisted Drafting CCE 151: AutoCAD I Starts March 18, 2019 – $507.90

Foundation announces Day of Giving Beginning at noon Feb. 14 and ending at noon Feb. 15 show your love by making a donation to the “I Heart Jackson College” Day of Giving.

Welding CCE110: MIG/TIG Welding Starts March 19, 2019 – $567.90

“Our hope is to shine a light on Jackson College during our Day of Giving, by allowing our alumni and friends to not only give back to the college they love but also to share why they love Jackson College,” said Jason Valente, president, Jackson College Foundation.

Cyber Security CCE 233: Hacking Techniques/incident March 19, 2019 – $551.55

“In the foundation office, we have the privilege of hearing many stories of appreciation. Our alumni recall an advisor

CCE 115: GD&T Starts March 18, 2019 – $320.70

CCE 234: Ethical Hacking March 18, 2019 – $551.55 Healthcare Training CCE 107: Advanced First Aid & American Heart CPR – Basic Starts March 18, 2019 – $305.70 CONTINUING EDUCATION • Teacher State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs) • Real Estate Online • Advanced Truck Driver Training Online Trainings CCE offers a robust catalog of online courses, from family learning to workforce training and more. Six-week classes start every month. Cost per class starts at just $119. Visit www.jccmi.edu/cce for a complete catalog of online offerings. How to Register Register online at www.jccmi.edu/cce or by calling 517.796.8610. For your convenience, CCE accepts MasterCard, Visa, Discover and personal checks. Full payment must accompany all course registrations.

Join us once a month for a free webinar series on Employee Engagement, Retention, Management, Performance Metrics, Office Politics and more! These one-hour webinars are available via Zoom conferencing software from noon to 1 p.m. EST. FEB. 6 - CONDUCTING ANNUAL EMPLOYEE REVIEWS MARCH 6 - EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT & RETENTION APRIL 3 - OFFICE POLITICS FOR MANAGERS For more furture sessions visit website below! To register & receive login details to this free series, visit www.jccmi.edu/powerhour2019

who encouraged them to pursue a particular academic path, a professor who guided them through a difficult course, or an administrator who referred them to the foundation for scholarship assistance. On our day of giving, everyone’s story will be heard.” Last year, scholarships helped more than 300 students with their expenses. Every gift makes a tremendous difference in the lives of college students. Consider giving! Fill our hearts this Valentine’s Day! Visit the website at www.jccmi.edu/ foundation/make-a-gift/.

Wickwire Scholars announced Like many people, SHANE CORTS and his family live paycheck to paycheck. His mom works three jobs, but money is still tight. Earning a scholarship helps lighten the burden. A 2015 Leslie High graduate, Corts started out working toward the nursing program, completed the prerequisites and was accepted. Then, he realized nursing wasn’t his calling. Now he’s started the new dental hygiene program and is very excited. “I went to the orientation and loved it. This will be a better fit for me.” “Any money that I receive can be a relief for us, it is amazing. It means a lot,” Corts said. HALEY ROSE faced her own challenges growing up, which gave her the drive to want to help those who cannot help others. A 2017 Napoleon High graduate, she enrolled at Jackson College and looks forward to a career in law enforcement.

Rose didn’t want to go far to college because she has a 6-yearold brother at home whom she wants to spend time with and watch him grow as much as possible. Again, Jackson College made sense. She has enjoyed her learning experience and the opportunity to play softball for the Jets. She also works as a tutor, was a Supplemental Instruction leader, and is president of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. “Scholarship money helps me have the opportunity to further my education as much as possible; it’s everything I could ask for,” she said. The Sterling Wickwire Scholarship provides up to $3,000 per academic year for a full-time student who maintains a grade point average of 3.5 or more. It is designed to attract and retain the best and brightest of Jackson College.