CLYDE LETARTE CENTER / HILLSDALE
JANUARY 2020 / VOLUME 2 / ISSUE 1
Top 10 reasons to choose Jackson College?
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Great Reputation The College is recognized for its academic programs and innovation, and was recently named a member of the League for Innovation in the Community College Board of Directors.
LeTarte Center builds toward the future 2 T 3 he dust has cleared on renovations at the Jackson College Clyde LeTarte Center!
Early this past summer, construction began to renovate the exterior of the building that was once a car dealership, giving it a more collegial feel and increasing curb appeal. New siding and a tower was added, and the entire building was painted. In addition, the facility’s roof was replaced and landscaping added.
Plans for the renovations were based upon recommendations from the Hillsdale Community Advisory Group and center staff, combined with general building needs, to further invest in the property. “Jackson College is pleased to improve our Hillsdale LeTarte Center. The building has undergone upgrades, improvements and repairs that provide a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for students,” said Michael Masters, dean of Hillsdale/Lenawee County Centers.
The Center offers seven classrooms, including a state-of-the-art science lab and two desktop computer labs. Computers are available in the building’s lobby for student use when the center is open. A variety of student services are available on-site. Jackson College opened this center on West Carleton Road in 1991, and previously offered classes through adult education at Hillsdale High School. In 2000, the center was renamed to honor former College President Clyde E. LeTarte, who served in Michigan’s House of Representatives.
STAFF COMMITTED TO HELPING STUDENTS Inside the Hillsdale center, staff members are eager to help every student reach their goal. Meet the staff: (Pictured left-right) • • • • •
Amanda Janes Hillsdale Center Coordinator, assists with admissions and outreach for Jackson College and Hillsdale County Early Middle College Tennille Fenstermaker Academic Support Services, facilitator for the Hillsdale County Early Middle College Sara Cornell Student Success Navigator, facilitator for the Hillsdale County Early Middle College Nicole Huepenbecker Customer Service Specialist Nadia Monat Student Success Navigator
Sought-After Career Fields Prepare for an in-demand career in fields like health care, business and information technology. Transfer Opportunities Students may start work for a bachelor’s degree and transfer on to a university to complete.
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Affordable Students may save thousands compared to a university, putting them ahead when they transfer or start their career.
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Expert Faculty Learn from caring faculty who are available to help students in the classroom or individually.
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Small Class Size The College’s student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1; you won’t be lost in a crowd!
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Guaranteed Satisfaction The College offers career and transfer guarantees so students can be sure their education will help them reach their goals.
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Student Life and Diversity Get involved beyond the classroom.
Convenient Located close to home to save time and money.
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Accreditation Academics are regularly reviewed to ensure quality in all facets.
Register now for winter semester at Jackson College! Classes begin Jan. 13, 2020.
Winter semester classes begin Jan. 13
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE!
New students must contact the office prior to registering for classes. Current students may meet with a student success navigator to discuss their schedule by contacting the LeTarte Center.
Do you need money for college? Financial aid is available to those who qualify. What kind of aid is there? • Grants • Scholarships • Work-Study • Loans Visit www.jccmi.edu/financial-aid to learn more, or speak with a LeTarte Center staff member.
*****ECRWSS***** Local Postal Customer 2111 Emmons Road Jackson, MI 49201-8399
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WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Jackson College has committed itself again to serving the Hillsdale County area’s students by renovating the local facility, the Clyde LeTarte Center. We hope you like it, but more importantly, we hope more of you will take a few minutes to step inside and learn more. What will you find? • Educational opportunities to fit a range of needs, whether that’s picking up a class or two for a current job, transfer to a university or find a great career. • Knowledgeable staff members who go the extra mile in helping students! Staff members understand that going to college can be unfamiliar and scary for some, and they have expertise and training to help make the process as smooth as possible. • Caring faculty who bring experience to the classroom. • Facilities that help with learning, with computer labs, science labs, classrooms, study areas and free student parking. If you are interested in learning more, stop by the Hillsdale LeTarte Center. A college education is within your reach, close to home. Sincerely, Michael Masters Dean, Lenawee and Hillsdale County Centers
Together we inspire and transform lives. We Are Jackson College • January 2020 • Volume 2 | Issue 1 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 Staff 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. Clyde LeTarte Center • 3120 W. Carleton Road • Hillsdale, MI 517.437.3343 • 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 Jackson College became a board member in the League for Innovation in the Community College in October 2019.
Get ahead with HCEMC
High school students may save money and get ahead on their college experience with the Hillsdale County Early Middle College program!
The HCEMC is a combined high school and college located on the campus of the Jackson College LeTarte Center. Beginning in the 11th grade, students continue their high school coursework while simultaneously enrolling in courses at the LeTarte Center. The program allows students to earn college credits while still in high school and enroll in advanced, college-level coursework. Students can take classes in the morning, afternoon or evening, depending on their choice and course offerings, in addition to their high school curriculum in their home districts. HCEMC allows students to: • Graduate with a high school diploma and up to 60 college credits • Attend classes on a college campus with wrap-around support services with academic advising, scheduling, district and parent contact. • Learn in a college environment that fosters maturity and academic growth • Gain vital skills for career and college success
HCEMC exists in partnership with the nine county school districts, the Hillsdale County Intermediate School District and Jackson College. It is funded by students’ State of Michigan per-pupil foundation allowance. APPLY The application for the new 2020 cohort will open on Jan. 7 and close on Feb. 14. This is open to all Hillsdale County 10th grade students. Learn more at www.jccmi.edu/hcemc.
HCEMC offers head start toward degree
Anastasia Schaedler’s future is in focus with the resources available from the Hillsdale County Early Middle College program. The opportunity to earn college credits and save money first attracted Schaedler to the program, so she enrolled her junior year at Waldron High School. While at first leaving her high school for the early middle college felt awkward socially, she came to make many good friends that she never would have met before. “I’ve made a lot of friends,” she said. HCEMC students benefit from many resources and opportunities, in addition to getting a jump-start on college. Students participate in weekly discussions that helps them to understand college and learn important skills for success in any field of endeavors, such as knowledge about college, academic preparedness, soft skills and more. Students also complete job shadowing, internships and community service to help them find their future. “I like the college environment. I was held accountable for myself, and I was pushing myself, without anyone else having to push me,” Schaedler said. “It has helped me, especially with things like time management and prioritizing.” Schaedler is now a college freshman in her third year the HCEMC, a graduate of Waldron High School. She has earned 38 college credits already, and this June plans to enroll in the U.S. Army. She plans to study psychology in the future with the help of the G.I. Bill, and hopes to earn her doctorate. “I would recommend the HCEMC to anyone who is thinking about it. They help with so much and offer many resources. It really helps.”
Scholarships change lives; apply now! Student success comes first at Jackson College. An important piece of helping students be successful is providing scholarships to help with cost. Jackson College Foundation scholarships have been playing a vital role in helping students meet the cost of college for 37 years. The foundation collaborates with donors to help remove some of the financial barriers that may prevent students from pursuing higher education. Jason Valente, foundation president, states that while Jackson College tuition may
be modest by some standards, many students simply could not afford to attend without scholarship support. Scholarship funds help to take away some of the financial worries and burdens that students may face and offer them peace of mind to focus on their studies. Numerous area residents, businesses and organizations donate funds for scholarships. These endowed scholarships are available to students based on criteria set by individual donors, with awards for various majors and student groups, such as first-generation college students. Scholarship funds help pay for education and do not have to be paid back. All students are encouraged to apply for scholarships. Application for the 2020 academic year is now available online at www.jccmi.edu/scholarships. Scholarships are available from a variety of community groups, such as the Hillsdale County Community Foundation, local civic groups, 4-H clubs, etc. Ask your high school guidance counselor, friends, family and neighbors to learn about opportunities available.
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LETARTE CENTER STUDENT VOICES Pittsford graduate Sabrina Hudson likes that she doesn’t have to go too far from home to go to college.
is a benefit. It’s helped me become a better communicator.”
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Following an internship experience at County National Bank, Hudson decided business would be a good career fit. “I like helping people and being around people all the time. I think I would like a major where I could work with people and own a business,” she said.
“I actually have to worry about my own studies and my homework, getting it turned in myself rather than always being reminded. Also, I can pick the days I can go in for classes,” Green said. “The professors understand, you can e-mail them and they will e-mail you back shortly, and they will work with you on assignments.” Green chose Jackson College because it was close to home and had lower tuition than other colleges and universities. She appreciates the help she received from staff. “I came in here a lot over the summer and asked questions, and they always helped me out,” Green said.
L O G A N RIL EY
“I chose Jackson College to help save money and because I liked being near my home,” he said. “Honestly, it’s really homey. I get a lot of one-onone attention, I’m not just a number or a statistic like at some bigger colleges. I know my professors’ names, and they know me.”
Takoda Haas of Jonesville appreciates the opportunity to start working toward his bachelor’s degree with the convenience of the Hillsdale LeTarte Center.
The thought of going to college and meeting all the requirements and deadlines for things like financial aid was stressful at first, but Riley said the staff at the LeTarte Center sat down and walked him through everything. “They just said ‘it will be OK, we’ll get through this.’”
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“It’s a cheaper option than just going straight to a large campus. I want to transfer to U-M or MSU but did not want to have to make that move right away. This is close to home,” AS A he said. “I got a lot of help H A transitioning here D after high school, so the process is pretty easy.”
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I know my professors by name, and they know me, too.
She plans to study accounting and earn her associate degree, with hopes to work at a bank.
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Riley became interested in history in the eighth grade, and now plans to study anthropology and become a marine archeologist. He hopes to transfer to the University of West Florida. He enjoys his current history class at the LeTarte Center with instructor Everett Henes, who he says is “hilarious” and personable to sit down and talk with.
A BIG AIL G RE EN
“I would recommend Jackson to early middle college students or seniors looking to go to a two-year institution to get their associate because it’s affordable and there are many opportunities, such as tutors, and everyone is friendly and welcoming.”
Logan Riley, of Jonesville, likes that the Hillsdale LeTarte Center feels “homey.”
Abigail Green is enjoying her college classes so much, she thinks she’s doing better now than in high school.
KFO RD Bryce Stockford of Hillsdale dreams of one day being the boss. He is getting his start with Jackson College’s business administration program.
“I’ve learned a lot through my communications classes, management and interpersonal relations,” Stockford said. “The information that I’ve learned is helpful for the real world, which
Haas is majoring in software engineering or computer science and is considering a double major with music education. He plays piano and drum set with the jazz band on Central Campus. He’s enjoying his time at Jackson College and will be part of the new esports team starting this winter semester, playing Rocket League.
Starting his college education at the Hillsdale LeTarte Center has not only helped Erik Rodriguez of Hillsdale get a great start on his basic studies, but it has taught him a lot about being a good student. He started at the LeTarte Center after graduating from
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I like the small class size.
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“It’s going great. I’m working really hard to try not to procrastinate and make sure I do all my work and get a 4.0,” Rodriguez said. “I wouldn’t want to change working in the office. I love working with all the students.”
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I get a lot of one-on-one attention.
He plans to transfer to Trine University in Angola, Ind. after graduating to complete his bachelor’s degree.
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Pittsford High because it was more affordable. Rodriguez is studying computer engineering with plans to transfer to Western Michigan University. Being a firstgeneration college student, he prepared himself for college and what to expect but also appreciates the help of the LeTarte Center staff. He’s gotten to know them well, serving as a student worker in the office.
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Stockford chose Jackson College because it was the most cost-effective way to complete his associate degree. He works full time and goes to school full time. “I didn’t want to go into debt. I’ve been able to not take out any student loans so far. I would like to stay out of debt for as long as possible.”
Hudson learned about Jackson College’s Hillsdale LeTarte Center when staff visited her high school. In weighing her options for higher education, she found that LeTarte Center was affordable and offered the field she wanted to study, business. “The application was very easy. And since my (high) school is only 20 minutes away, I have many classmates here with me. The transition from high school to college was easy,” she said.
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The staff are very helpful. They are always there for you.
Isabell Conley of Litchfield appreciates the opportunity to go to college close to home. Transitioning to college from high school hasn’t always been easy for Conley, first in her family to go to college, but she has found help from the LeTarte Center staff. “They will sit down and explain everything a lot simpler than what the paperwork would say. They are very helpful,” Conley said.
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I can save money going to school close to home.
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With a heart for helping those who are hurting and gaining clinical experience with the career center, she plans to pursue a career in nursing. “Once I started taking care of people and started taking care of family members who couldn’t care for themselves anymore, it clicked in my head that this is what I want to do. I care for people, I have a big heart.” LL C O N ABE LE S I She encourages Y others thinking about college to pursue their goals. “Stay focused and don’t lose hope in yourself, and don’t give up,” she said. “If you stay with it, it’s worth it; there are a lot of opportunities in the end.”
Erica Palan’s transition from high school to college has gone so well, she doesn’t see much of a difference. A graduate of Camden-Frontier High School, Palan visited both the Central Campus and LeTarte Center and decided PALA N A it would be a good next IC R step for her. E “I thought the LeTarte Center would be good for me and for my career, and it’s closer,” she said. After a scare with her father’s health when he had a heart problem, she has decided to study to become an EKG technician. She plans to work toward an associate degree. “I want to learn more about the heart and what it does,” she said. “The staff were good at explaining things.”
WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE
JANUARY 2020
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Making a smart start toward career A personal experience with a family member’s illness led Sydni Brunette to pursue a career in nursing. Making a smart start led her to Jackson College. Brunette, a Pittsford High School graduate, remembers the help and kindness of nurses when her sister was sick. “I saw how the nurses interacted with her and would be there for families in their time of need, so I chose nursing,” she said. Registered nurses are in demand today, with 14 percent job growth projected in Michigan and 12 percent nationwide. Starting at the Hillsdale LeTarte Center taking general studies and prerequisites, Brunette will begin the nursing program on Central Campus in January. “Jackson College saves me a lot more money than if I went to a university. I am paying for college on my own, so this was my best option,” she said. It’s been a great experience so far, she has achieved a 3.8-grade point average. She’s already helping others, now as a student tutor, helping classmates. “The professors are super nice and are always accommodating to your needs. They help you a lot.”
PROGRAMS OF STUDY at Hillsdale LeTarte Center
Start and finish these academic programs at the Hillsdale LeTarte Center! • Associate in Arts – great degree for those pursuing a bachelor’s degree • Associate in Science – great degree for those pursuing a bachelor’s degree in science-related fields • Associate in General Studies – for students who want to plan their own program of study not defined by a specific job or career. Behavioral Sciences Certificate Explore the effects of human actions and relationships between individuals in the family, workplace and society. Business Administration Gain the knowledge and tools to analyze a business situation, shape long-term action plans, oversee plans as they are carried out, and make countless large and small decisions along the way. Corrections Learn to oversee individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or have been sentenced to jail or prison. Digital Photography Use creativity and technical expertise to photograph people, landscapes, merchandise, or other subjects, producing images that or record an event. EKG Technician Learn to measure and record heart action and rhythm during heartbeats. Physicians use EKG readings in diagnosing heart ailments, monitoring heart functions and progress. Electronic Health Records Learn to organize and manage patient health data, ensuring the quality, accuracy, accessibility and
security, and to discuss information confidently and confidentially. Law Enforcement Work to protect the public and maintain order. Functions may include: patrolling a specific area; direct traffic; issue traffic summonses; investigate accidents; apprehend and arrest suspects; and serve court processes. Management Build on your natural ability to get along with people and develop your leadership potential for management roles. Project Management Develop your skills as a project leader and team member in today’s business sector. The skills gained will allow you to successfully plan projects, lead teams, and be an effective team member, furthering your leadership potential. Phlebotomy Learn to draw blood for tests, transfusions, research and blood donations, offering results that assist in medical diagnosis and treatment. More academic programs may be started in Hillsdale and finished online or at the Central Campus. Speak with a student success navigator to learn more.
More learning equals more earning. A college education decreases your chances of becoming unemployed while increasing your earning potential.
Teaching students at home is close to instructor’s heart
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nstructor Vern Brown has seen the world, but his heart remains at home with his hometown students at Hillsdale LeTarte Center. A native of Jonesville, Brown earned his bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University in Foreign Service and his juris doctor degree from the University of Michigan Law School. Rather than join the Foreign Service, he decided to return to his family dairy farm in Jonesville. In the late 1990s, he transitioned out of farming and into consulting, working with international clients on agricultural projects. Brown has traveled the world and visited many unique places, which he enjoys sharing with students. “Teaching at Jackson College is a hobby. I really enjoy sharing my life with students in Hillsdale County,” Brown said. He recognizes the
Build success skills. A college education can boost your communication skills, help you manage time and set priorities, expand your knowledge base, and help you get organized. Get a good job. A college education can help College graduates have you work with others and develop more jobs to choose from problem-solving skills, something than those who don’t pursue many employers look for in education beyond high school. all employees.
importance of having a college close-by in the community. “I had opportunities to go to the best schools in the world. Everybody should have access to a college degree if they want one.” As a “local,” Brown understands where students are coming from and empathizes with the situations that they face. He hopes to inspire them to be all that they can be. “I like to tell stories and share what I’ve done with my life with the students, to give them the incentive to go out and do it themselves. I’m just a farm kid from Hillsdale County; if I can do it, anyone can.” Jackson College frequently seeks part-time adjunct instructors. Check the website at www.jccmi.edu/employmentat-jackson-college/ to learn more.
Prepare for lifelong learning. Education can help prepare you to be a lifelong learner, important in a changing world where tomorrow’s careers are still unknown. Not all learning happens in a classroom; have some fun while developing important teamwork and leadership skills.