PHCC Perspectives Magazine Winter 2011

PHCC Perspective Volume V, Issue II Winter 2011

PASCO-HERNANDO

COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Blind Ambition: Movie Critic Jay Forry’s Unique Vision

Radiography Grads:

The Picture of Success

Boomers Bounce Back to College

PHCC 2012 PERFORMING ARTS SERIES Enjoy Special Discounts and Stock Up on Great Entertainment Gifts!

PHCC is closed for Winter Break: December 15, 2011–January 2, 2012

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Also Welcome Back…

“Soundtrack of the World” March 10, 2012

10% Senior Discount

10% PHCC Student/Employee Discount

20% Group Discount —Groups of 10 or more 20% Series Tickets—All 4 shows

One discount per order—by phone or in person only ONLINE TICKET SALES: www.phcc.edu/tix Visa/MasterCard accepted

Did you know PHCC Performing Arts Center has seat sponsorships available? Honor someone special with an engraved name plaque and brief message For more info, visit www.phcc.edu/foundation/seatsponsor.php or call

727-816-3410.

IN PERSON OR PHONE TICKET SALES: Visa/MasterCard accepted

BOX OFFICE OPEN: Weekdays 10 a.m.–1 p.m. (except campus holidays) PHONE: 727-816-3707

PHCC College Store Box Office 10230 Ridge Road • New Port Richey, Fl 34654 PLEASE NOTE: No Refunds or exchanges • Call ahead for wheelchair accessible seating • Campus Map and Driving Directions: www.phcc.edu/maps/npr.php

in Perspective

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Winter 2011

Volume V, Issue II

F E AT U R E S Radiography Program is the Image of Perfection

Radiography program graduates have achieved a 100 percent passing rate on the credentialing exam—a credit to the quality of instruction, on-campus labs and great clinical partnerships.

Page 10

10

Teaching Tomorrow’s Teachers Today

14

The Sound of Movies

18

Millennials Make Room for Mature Students

College graduates who want to become teachers can gain certification through the PHCC Educator Preparation Institute.

On the Cover: Blind movie reviewer Jay Forry relies on wife, Dorothy, to offer visual summaries of movies, but Jay usually learns all he needs to know from the dialogue, music and sound effects.

Cover photograph by: John Stalter

About PHCC Perspective The award-winning PHCC Perspective is published

by Pasco-Hernando Community College and the PHCC Foundation.

One of only two blind movie critics in the world, PHCC alumnus Jay Forry lost his vision at age 27 but not his love of challenge and now his reviews are broadcast on radio shows throughout the English-speaking world.

Adults over 50 who are returning to college to finish their degrees and become more competitive in today’s job market have support through a new initiative at PHCC.

Lucy Miller, Executive Editor Courtney Boettcher, Managing Editor/Writer Sharon Masters, Foundation Writer Sally Hamilton, Contributing Writer Jeff Webb, Contributing Writer Karen Kielar, Graphic Designer Arla Altman, Dean of Institutional Advancement Pasco-Hernando Community College Marketing and Public Relations 10230 Ridge Road New Port Richey, FL 34654

Phone: 727.816.3467 Fax: 727.816.3723 Email: marketing@phcc.edu

www.phcc.edu

D EPA R T M E N T S 2 From the President 6 College Update 11 Faculty Profile 12 Scholarship Spotlight 20 Athletics 21 Student Profile 22 Foundation News 26 Alumni Notes 28 Flashback

It’s Important to us to know you by name If we didn’t get your name or address right, we apologize! Please contact us so that we can update our records.

If you prefer to be removed from our mailing list, please call 727.816.3467 or email us at marketing@phcc.edu.

Winter 2011 1

Pasco-Hernando Community College President Katherine M. Johnson, Ed.D. PHCC District Board of Trustees Chair Jeanne M. Gavish Vice Chair S.K. Rao Musunuru, M.D. Members Judy R. Parker Wilton E. Simpson John L. DiRienzo, Jr. Kathy Burke Leonard Johnson Morris Porton Victor Young PHCC Foundation Board of Directors Executive Committee

Chair Monica Mills Vice Chair Gus Guadagnino Secretary Kenneth R. Burdzinski Treasurer Ron May, CFP ®

Members-at-Large Andrew Barnes Jackie Campbell, C.P.A., CFP ® Joel Goldberg, D.D.S. Nita Melaugh Frank Rygiel N. John Stewart, Jr. Debra Van Bemden Donald K. Vierling, M.D. Jeanne Gavish Directors Russell Adams Kevin Ahrens Thomas Barnette A. Patricia Barwick Edward C. Blommel John A. Dougherty, C.P.A. Michael Duncan Sean E. Hengesbach Ann Hildebrand Greg Jarque Seth Mann, Esq., C.P.A., CFP ® J.D. Porter George Psetas Buddy Selph Sallie D. Skipper Larry M. Starnes Nina Vaznelis Honorary Life Members Robert A. Barnett Marc W. Bowman Judge Wayne Cobb Wayne R. Coulter James H. Kimbrough, Sr. Niles H. Kinnunen, Jr., D.D.S. Ronald G. Thornton Richard C. Williams, Jr. Executive Director Arla Altman

2 Perspective

from the president…

Celebrating Seasons of Success

The college is bustling with activity as we prepare for winter commencement and register students for the spring 2012 term.

Just as we bid farewell to our 2011 grads, we plan to welcome January’s new and returning students to another season of learning. Undoubtedly, 2011 has been incredibly memorable and productive. PHCC kicked off 2011 by hosting community forums at each campus to support the long-term direction of our growing institution. The fresh insights provided by residents and community leaders contribute greatly to the research we are conducting to meet our district’s future educational and employment needs.

As winter swept into spring, the new Spring Hill Campus passed a Southern Association of College and Schools (SACS) accreditation with flying colors, following the 2010 collegewide SACS re-accreditation of PHCC. The Foundation reeled in $43,000 of proceeds with its Annual Fishing Tournament and hosted the first-ever Hearts of Gold luncheon, bringing together major donors and scholarship recipients.

May marked spring commencement and awards banquets recognizing our talented and accomplished students, filling us with pride. While summer may seem less hectic, our faculty and students were immersed in intense, accelerated summer classes, and PHCC busily prepared to greet fall’s new and returning students. Construction moved forward for the Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, our fifth full-service campus, slated to open in January 2014.

Our fall Peace Week event, in its fourth year, presented internationally acclaimed speakers and diverse events and activities—drawing attention to domestic and global issues that affect us all. PHCC’s 400-plus permanent employees attended informative workshops and networked with co-workers at All College Day, an in-service program. Meanwhile, the Foundation hosted its annual golf tournament, giving participants the opportunity to support scholarships while enjoying a lovely day on the links.

In November, the governor appointed four new trustees to serve on our District Board of Trustees. As we welcomed new board members Kathy Burke, Leonard Johnson, Morris Porton and Victor Young, we warmly thanked outgoing trustees Irvin Homer, Gary Worthley and retiring board member Tom Weightman for their many years of service. As we cap off 2011 with winter commencement and prepare for an exciting new year at PHCC, we will soon announce plans to celebrate PHCC’s 40th Anniversary year beginning fall 2012. Stay tuned for related news!

In fact, 2011 held many examples of meaningful progress at PHCC and we believe 2012 is full of promise as well. We look forward to a great New Year with you—and wish each and every member of our college community a joyous holiday season!

With warmest regards, Katherine M. Johnson, Ed.D., PHCC President

CommunityNews

Education paves path to prosperity

Central to PHCC’s mission is serving the educational needs and interests of our community.

In a report by the Pasco-Hernando Workforce Board, only 18 percent of jobs in Pasco and Hernando counties require less than a high school diploma, while 62 percent require some level of postsecondary education. Additionally, the 2010 census revealed a wide gap between today’s job requirements and existing education levels of many area residents. Compounded by local unemployment rates that consistently run above the national average, this area needs a well-trained, educated workforce.

PHCC plans to help meet this critical demand for collegetrained workers. Earlier this year, the College received an Adult Education Career Pathways Grant for $243,410 from the Florida Department of Education. The grant provides support for a joint effort among the adult education programs in Pasco County, Hernando County and at PHCC. The Adult Education Career Pathways Grant program is designed to assist district residents who have not earned a high school diploma or the equivalent, first by earning a GED, then transitioning to postsecondary education.

The primary goal of the program is to provide a clear set of educational steps that will give adult education students a direct educational path

to jobs in the community. A career pathways specialist and advisors will guide students through a career focused educational process. To prepare students for the workforce, this approach will help participants make career choices, identify a pathway plan and select the corresponding educational route to achieve career goals.

The project helps students incorporate

contextualized learning opportunities, emphasizing how mathematics, reading and writing are used in the workplace. Life skills counseling and professional development, such as résumé writing and interviewing skills workshops, will assist students as they transition from adult learners to employment-ready individuals.

Program administrators will track adult learners’ progress as education paves the way toward a certificate, degree, job skills or career opportunities.

Leading the Way

PHCC’s Assistant Dean of Developmental Education, Lisa Richardson, developed the Adult Education Career Pathways Grant in collaboration with Carolyn Allen, supervisor of adult and community education for the Pasco County School District, and Denise Moen, supervisor of adult and community education and volunteer programs for the Hernando County School District with assistance from Ed Siegel, PHCC’s director of institutional research and grants. Other key participants include Donna Burdzinski, PHCC’s dean of student enrollment and retention, and Edwin Goolsby, PHCC’s dean of workforce development.

These college administrators, collaborative partners, and Louise Downey, career pathways adult education specialist at PHCC, form a steering committee to guide the Adult Education Career Pathways Grant program.

Winter 2011 3

Radiography Program is the image of perfection

Robert Vaughn, PHCC radiography program alumnus and lead radiography technician at Spring Hill Regional Hospital, adjusts a patient for a chest X-ray.

4  Perspective

One-Hundred Percent.

The program is supported by the PHCC Foundation, which has invested in state-of-theart equipment and technology.

Operating up-to-date equipment in the classroom is a huge advantage for PHCC students, who manage the same equipment at clinical sites.

Misused so often, the term loses significance. So, when there is an opportunity to attach “100 percent” to a certifiable accomplishment at PHCC, we’re eager to oblige.

Lischak agrees equipment is essential to the program’s success. “We have two energized laboratories and a PACS” she said, referring to a Picture Archiving Communication System that, in addition to a portable X-ray machine, was funded by the PHCC Foundation.

We hear it all the time. Athletes give 100 percent effort on the playing field. The boss has 100 percent support from staff. And products claiming to have 100 percent natural ingredients always do, of course.

The College’s radiography program has achieved a 100 Robert Vaughn, transitioned from a student Lischak said most students land jobs percent passing rate on the clinician to a full-time technician at Spring at a facility where they did one of credentialing exam administered Hill Regional Hospital. He still reserves time three clinical rotations or completed by the American Registry of to teach PHCC radiography students. an internship. That was the case for Radiologic Technologists. Although Robert Vaughn.

PHCC students in the program always perform well on the ARRT test, perfection is Vaughn completed the program in 2008 and for the unprecedented. And, to further impress, the median past three years has worked at Spring Hill Regional score for PHCC students was 91 percent.

Hospital, where he is a lead technologist.

This in-demand limited access program prepares students for careers as radiographers who operate X-ray equipment that capture images used for diagnostic purposes. For two years, students divide their time between the classroom and at hospitals and clinics that partner with PHCC. Successful graduates, only 20 per year, emerge well-trained in anatomy and procedures, radiation protection and safety, communication skills and with an Associate in Science degree.

Since 2008, Jayme Rothberg has been dean of health occupations at PHCC. But in 1998 she was managing the radiography program at Hillsborough Community College when PHCC asked her to recommend someone who could establish a similar program at the New Port Richey campus. After pondering the possibility, Rothberg said, “I have somebody in mind—me!”

Initially, Rothberg was the only full-time faculty. “I taught the didactic classes, and recruited several adjunct faculty to assist in clinical settings,” she said.

One of those adjuncts was Cathe Dolan, who had worked with Rothberg at an outpatient clinic in Tampa.

“I never set out to be an instructor, but it was just meant to be,” said Dolan, who is enjoying her eighth year as a PHCC adjunct. “Our program has a great reputation” in the medical community. The proof is that “the clinical sites are hiring our grads.

Several factors sustain that reputation.

Rothberg has assembled a staff that is exceptional in both its academic accomplishments and popularity with students. Tina Lischak and Jane Lozier are fulltime co-coordinators of the program, supervising seven adjunct instructors.

There are 15 clinical sites, mostly hospitals, in Pasco, Hernando, Citrus and Pinellas counties, where PHCC RT students complete rotations and internships.

The 46-year-old father of five said he “knew several people who had completed the RT program. Everyone spoke highly of the instructors.” Vaughn went on to confirm those recommendations. “Jayme, Tina and Jane were wonderful. PHCC is a great college,” he said.

Vaughn now has his Bachelor of Science in healthcare management from Hodges University and has returned as an adjunct instructor for PHCC’s radiography program. “I get all kinds of questions from PHCC students when they come to Spring Hill Regional,” he said. “We have a kinship.”

Amanda Goelz is another student whose PHCC experience morphed into full-time employment. Goelz, 24, completed the radiography program in 2009. During her second year, she had a clinical rotation at Regional Medical Center at Bayonet Point. “I fell in love with the place, and was determined to work there,” Goelz said. “I graduated in December and started working in January.”

Goelz said PHCC prepared her well, but more than RT credentials are needed to succeed. “You have to be dedicated and well-rounded in this job market. You need to stand out,” she said.

Dean Rothberg is optimistic about the future. As other clinical facilities open or expand operations in the area, she hopes to increase the number of seats available in the radiography program.

Meanwhile, Rothberg said she will continue to ensure the students and equipment in the radiography program, as well as the other health programs she oversees, “remain on the cutting edge…”

100% …Guaranteed, 100 percent.

Winter 2011 5

College Update AUGUST JULY Inductees now elite envoys

The Student Activities Office inducted 25 students into the Student Ambassador Program. More than 100 applicants competed for the coveted positions in a full day interview process that tested communication, team playing and social skills. The select students will serve as PHCC ambassadors during the 2011-12 academic year.

New students warmly welcomed

The week before fall classes began, each campus held a Get Acquainted Day to introduce incoming freshmen to the college environment. Students enjoyed campus tours, met faculty and staff, networked with classmates and learned about student services, clubs and organizations.

WE Team greet and treat

The PHCC Welcome and Engagement Team, aka the WE Team, officially greeted students during the first two days of the fall semester. Comprised of administrators, faculty, staff and students, the volunteers distributed student planners, answered questions, and provided directions to new students as they embarked on a new season at PHCC. The WE Team royal welcome also featured first day back fuel, including coffee, hot chocolate, doughnuts, lemonade and other refreshments.

Transition, Chaos, and Now

Front row left to right: Nyasia Bourne, Heidi Crider, Aida Dautovic, Debra Hood, Valerie Mauricio-Cruz, Tatiana DaSilva, Jacquelinne Landaverde, Brooke Harris, Dominique Phillips-Alverez and Olivia Naab. Middle row left to right: Chelsea Roach, Sydney Denkley-Bakri, Stephanie Collin and Nicole Daniels. Back row left to right: Richard Bracker, Julian Serna Restrepo, Neil Kazmerski , Thomas Anziani, Craig Flannery, Ashley Flatt, Eric Young, Jonathan Mathis and Kandace Murphy.

Composed of fragmented imagery, Kurt Holyoke’s colorful artwork ushered in the 2011-12 art gallery season. His work conveys a state of perpetual “now,” freeing his audience from the constraints of the past and the anticipation of the future.

September One stop shop offers college opps

Trustees elect leaders

6 Perspective

The PHCC District Board of Trustees unanimously elected Trustee Jeanne M. Gavish as chair and Trustee S. K. Rao Musunuru, M.D., as vice chair for the 2011-2012 academic year. Both trustees have served on the District Board since 1999.

College Night events introduced Pasco and Hernando county students to more than 80 post-high school opportunities. Without ever leaving the region, students collected information about qualifications, admissions, and financial aid at a variety of institutions offering post-secondary study. These free annual events attract hundreds of high school students, their parents, PHCC students seeking post-grad transfer opportunities, and community members of all ages.

Job seekers build skills

Students perfected proficiencies in writing résumés and cover letters, polished presentation skills and practiced strategies to attract job offers in a series of workshops. The bonus is a boost to the confidence of worthwhile workers who, without a little assistance, may miss the mark for job opportunities.

Blending artistic sensibilities

Robin Saenger’s glass art and Steve Corrado’s metal creations merged for a gallery exhibit. Often collaborating, these two artists illustrated a fascination with light and color through glass and quirky, captivating metalworks.

Columnist champions free press

St. Petersburg Times columnist Daniel Ruth provided this year’s Constitution Day presentation—“The Free Press in the 21st Century.” Carmine Bell, Ph.D., PHCC professor of language arts, coordinated the presentation, and introduced the renowned Ruth to approximately 100 faculty, students and staff in attendance.

The columnist, a 38-year industry veteran, explored the profound significance of the first amendment.

No more math madness

Fractions, decimals and algebraic equations are math concepts that may have been once mastered, but are long forgotten by many who have been out of school awhile. To help returning adult students over age 50, the Encore Academy offered a free math refresher workshop to club members and current plus 50 PHCC degree-seeking students.

Honor students inducted

The collegewide Phi Theta Kappa Induction Ceremony was held to celebrate new members of the college honor society (pictured above.)

Coping with Alzheimer’s disease

The Encore Academy, in conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Association of Spring Hill, offered a series of educational seminars on symptoms, stages and recent research relating to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Imagining the possibilities of peace

OCTOBER Managing mental illness

A weeklong series of events at the North Campus marked Mental Illness Awareness Week. Featuring a guest author, speakers, student presentations, movies and depression screenings this series was sponsored by the North Campus Psychology and Psi Beta Clubs, BayCare and the National Alliance on Mental Illness Hernando.

Keynote speakers, guest lecturers, exhibits, presentations, interactive workshops, peace and religion festivals and musical performances filled a weeklong celebration of peace. Students, faculty, staff and the community were encouraged to explore and share their thoughts on this year’s theme—Imagine the Possibilities of Peace.

(Read more on page 19.)

Winter 2011 7

College Update Students stress less on spa day

Human services spotlighted

Students were able to de-stress at spa day, relax in the drum circle, learn about healthy eating, and pick up information about living a better lifestyle at the health fairs during Health & Wellness week.

PHCC partnered with the Hernando County Health and Human Services Department to offer a series of College Connection seminars. Beginning in October and running through the end of the academic year, these sessions highlight a variety of health and human services programs available in Hernando County, including social, child welfare and health services.

Respect, honor and glory

The annual Veterans Day Flag Ceremony was held at the flagpole on the West Campus to honor military veterans and their families. Guest speaker Jack Plant, PHCC assistant professor of drafting and design, spoke about remembrance, while the River Ridge High School JROTC team performed the official flag ceremony.

Art magazine awarded

Nine PHCC students received prizes from the Florida College System Activities Association Publications Division for their contributions to PHCC’s 2011 art and literary magazine Mobius (shown at right) at the conference in Orlando.

Student winners include: Kelly Burke, John Martin and Zachary Wagner, all of Port Richey; and Cody Artzner, Alexa Clavette, Marshall Crew, Alex Ficarro, Gabrielle Miller and Alex Sogliero, all of New Port Richey.

Partnership promotes student access

Achievement possibilities

From new technology to increased retention and progression rates, a PHCC program was among the colleges receiving an award from the Florida College System (FCS) during the annual association convention. In the area of Student Affairs, the College’s Making Achievement Possible (MAP) Works program was honored with a Best Practice award.

NOVEMBER Help for the homeless

The University of South Florida, Hillsborough Community College, St. Petersburg College and PHCC recently collaborated to establish policies to promote student access from the colleges to the university. The institutions signed a resolution to create a strengthened pathway between the colleges and USF. Among the goals is to share coursework transfer policies and cultivate joint admission with guaranteed transfer for associate degree graduates who meet grade point average requirements and complete prerequisites, according to the agreement.

Collaborate for a Cause: Homelessness Outreach Project for Empowerment (HOPE) is a grant-funded effort between Saint Leo University and PHCC. As a result of this effort, PHCC hosted a day-long event to discuss the homelessness crisis in Hernando County.

Plein air art portrays personal perspective

Tampa-based muralist Terry Klaaren presented an artistic documentation of personal encounters with unique people and places during decades of North American and European travel in Post Cards from My Life. This eclectic display of studio and plein air artwork adorned the gallery walls from November through December commencement.

8 Perspective

Presidential Pact. Dr. Kenneth Atwater, HCC; Dr. Katherine Johnson, PHCC; Dr. Bill Law, SPC; and Dr. Judy Genshaft, USF, signing the collaborate agreement.

Burke

College welcomes new trustees

Johnson

Porton

Young

Four new members were appointed to the PHCC’s District Board of Trustees by Gov. Rick Scott, pending approval by the Florida senate. Kathy Burke, an executive with Health Management Associates, will represent Hernando County on the board.

She succeeds Irvin Homer, who has served on the board since August 2003. Leonard H. Johnson, a Dade City attorney, is succeeding Thomas E. Weightman, who had been appointed to represent Pasco County in 2003. Mr. Weightman had announced plans to retire from the board earlier this year. Representing Hernando County, Morris Porton, a PHCC Foundation board member and senior vice president of Florida Traditions Bank, replaces Deborah G. Kilgore. Ms. Kilgore retired from the board in July 2010 due to relocating out of state. Also representing Pasco County, Victor Young, car dealership owner and local businessman, succeeds Gary L. Worthley, who has served on the DBoT since June 2007.

DECEMBER Poetry celebration

Now in its 10th year, the biannual Celebration of Poetry drew in a crowd from first-timers to published writers for an evening of open-mike poetry sharing at the North Campus in Brooksville. Professor Emeritus Richard Downing and Professor of Language Arts Kay McKamy coordinated this popular prose event.

The nightingale pledge

Almost 100 students were honored at the Nursing Pinning Ceremony where they were conferred with pins by faculty members, lighted symbolic candles, and recited the Nightingale Pledge. (Read more about this time-honored tradition on page 28.)

Grads celebrate achievements

The College honored the accomplishment of 330 graduates during the Winter Commencement ceremonies, held in the morning for diploma, certificate and AS degree recipients and in the afternoon for AA degree candidates.

Kudos Ken Burdzinski, vice president of administration and finance, was selected to serve a one-year term on the Professional Development Committee of the Southern Association of College and University Business Officers.

award. In the Association of Florida Colleges (AFC) Communications and Marketing Commission (CMC) competition, the department received a first-place award in the brochure category and a secondplace award for the annual report.

Katherine Johnson, Ed.D., president, was selected to serve a one-year term as chair of the Florida College System (FCS) Council of Presidents.

Students in the North Campus Psi Beta national psychology honor society won the 2010–2011 Psi Beta Chapter Excellence Award.

Dave Mayler, programmer/analyst, Jack Plant, assistant professor of drafting and design, Sonia Rodriguez, associate dean, Melissa Rushton, information center coordinator, and Arlene York, Advisor, were selected as the first members of the President’s Leadership Institute, a new professional development program at PHCC.

Joy Raulerson, advisor, was selected as the recipient of the annual Dr. Debra J. Hay Distinguished Service Award from the Association of Florida Colleges (AFC) Student Development Council.

The Marketing and Public Relations department won three awards in the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR) Medallion competition, earning silver awards in the annual report and brochure categories. The PHCC Perspective magazine received a bronze

Regina Mirabella, associate professor of nursing (ADN), was a finalist in the Nursing Excellence Awards program in the teaching category.

Randy Stovall, Ph.D., East Campus provost, was presented with the Business Leader of the Year award from the Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce during its annual banquet in October.

Winter 2011 9

John Zubeck is lead teacher at Eckerd Youth Challenge, a private secondchance school located south of Brooksville.

The students are in silhouette to protect their identities.

Teaching Tomorrow’s Teachers Today For Karen Noffsinger, it was “one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

For John Zubeck, it was “a no-brainer.”

For both, the Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) at Pasco-Hernando Community College was the gateway to their aspiring, and now successful, careers as teachers.

Since 2005, the EPI program at PHCC has provided an alternate route to teacher certification for adults who already have bachelor’s degrees in disciplines other than education. All enrollees have worked in other careers and, for reasons ranging from professional layoffs to personal epiphanies, have chosen to “make a difference in the life of a child,” said Carol Jones, coordinator of the program for the past five years.

Jones said the average age of students in the EPI program is 42, and their professional backgrounds are diverse: lawyers, journalists, business owners, computer programmers, nurses and chefs, to name a few.

10 Perspective

The EPI curriculum consists of seven courses, each three to six weeks in length. It takes about

10 months to complete the classes offered exclusively on the West Campus, or the online program can be finished in about six months. Students also can combine both instruction methods, which was a big draw for Noffsinger. The New Port Richey resident had a successful career marketing upscale housing developments until “I did some soul-searching and realized I had a different calling,” she said.

“To be able to work with kids and make a difference is a true legacy.

“It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Noffsinger said.

“The EPI program’s hybrid classes allowed me to take courses in the classroom or online. I definitely would recommend it.” Noffisinger completed the program in 2009 and now teaches world history and coaches varsity volleyball and soccer at Dunnellon High School.

At age 47, she recently was chosen Rookie Teacher of the Year at DHS. “The quality of the (EPI) instruction prepared me very well for being a teacher,” she said.

Such success is common for those who complete the EPI program at PHCC, Jones said, and the

talent of the 10 adjunct instructors, combined with the workforce experience and maturity of the students, combine to make that outcome a certainty. “The adjuncts are school principals with their hands on the pulse of today’s students,” said Jones.

Zubeck is lead teacher at Eckerd Youth Challenge, a private secondchance school south of Brooksville.

After being downsized from his job as a teacher and wrestling coach at a Catholic high school in Chicago, he moved to his father’s home in Spring Hill to regroup.

“I looked for alternative certification options,” Zubeck said. “The EPI program at PHCC caught my eye. The relative closeness to home and the extreme affordability— this was a no-brainer! I have my professional teaching certificate now and I plan to pursue my master’s degree,” said Zubeck, 49, who also is a U.S. Army Special Forces veteran. Zubeck has recommended the EPI program to others because “it’s a very concentrated curriculum and it’s fast.

That’s a big plus. It has improved my teaching skills immeasurably.”

facultyprofile

A Chemist Comes Home In early 2005, Dr. Stacey Thomson returned from back-to-back, three-week trips to Russia and China, searching for new manufacturing facilities for her chemical company. She’d been home briefly for the holidays, but more trips were on the horizon. After 15 years of constant travel as the international project manager for a company that developed new pharmaceutical drugs, she was exhausted. It was time for a lifestyle change. At home on her farm in Brooksville, she opened the local newspaper and saw an ad for a chemist at Pasco-Hernando Community College.

“I realized this was what I wanted to do,” says Thomson now in her seventh year as chemistry professor and fourth as chair of the science department. “It was coming full circle.” That circle had taken her from northern Maine to Arizona and eventually to Florida, where she trained Arabian horses for a farm in Ocala and then restarted her college education at Hillsborough Community College. It took her eight years to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, and then she continued on for her doctorate.

“She has such a good sense of humor, but stays on topic while still having fun,” says Nagy. She inspired him to go deeper into the discipline, and now he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in chemistry.

When Thomson heads back to her farm at the end of a day, she finds energy to pursue another passion—breeding, raising and showing Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. One of her pups was the top Chesapeake show dog in the country for three years. These days his job is retrieving the morning paper. Another retriever carries the egg basket to the hen house every morning. “If you don’t let them do their job, they’ll do something bad,” she says.

Whether on the farm or at the College, Thomson is clearly at home these days.

PHCC is the perfect fit for her. “I want to see that my efforts are worthwhile,” she says, and her students show her that they are— year after year.

“When I reflect on my college career, the one that imparted the most was my community college experience,” she says. “I had faculty members who made me feel important.

They gave me confidence.”

Thomson does the same with her students. Erin Mauthner, a dual enrollment student recalls, “She gave me so much extra attention. She wanted me to succeed as much as I did. I really needed that.”

Lexi Balestrieri, ’10, who took four courses with Thomson, regularly sought her professor’s assistance. “She was always available when we needed her.” Thomson was even in the audience for one of Balestrieri’s performances at the Richey Suncoast Theatre.

Thomson’s passion for her discipline also influences her students. Patrick Nagy, ’09, initially took her class as a requirement, fell in love with chemistry instead. but

Stacey Thomson, Ph.D., associate professor of physical science/chemistry and department chair of science, playing at home with Champion Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Nash, with the morning paper, and Jena, the egg basket carrier.

Winter Winter2011 2011 11 11

scholarship spotlight:my perspective

Jessica Imbimbo Anne F. Bucy Scholarship Home: Hudson, Fla. / Age 19

Who influenced your decision to attend college?

My parents, for as long as I can remember, instilled in me the importance of education. They showed me that through education, you can achieve anything. It was never a question of whether I was going to pursue higher education; the question was simply where to go.

Why did you choose PHCC? By attending PHCC, I was able to further my education while staying close to my family (particularly my little sister). I was also fortunate to receive an athletic scholarship to play for the 2010 national championship volleyball team.

What is your fondest PHCC moment?

When the volleyball team won the NJCAA Division II National Championship last November in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, it was a truly surreal experience that I will remember forever. It was wonderful to accomplish something that affected more than just us; something that will be remembered and recognized at PHCC for many years to come.

Is there someone at PHCC that you most admire?

My volleyball coach, Kim Whitney, is someone that I hold in high regard. She has such a commanding presence—a presence that is firm, yet caring and passionate. She didn’t have to ask for or demand respect; you knew to give it to her. Coach Whitney has shown me that drive, dedication and hard work are all you need to achieve your goals.

What do you do in your free time?

Unfortunately I don’t get much of it, but when I do have free time I usually spend it with my teammates.

Whatever we decide to do, it’s never boring. The girls I have met and bonded with over the last two years are people who will be lifelong friends, and I thank PHCC for bringing us together.

How is philanthropy important?

Philanthropy matters because it affects more than just the recipient. Giving back to the community can have a ripple effect, hopefully inspiring others to do the same. One person can make a tremendous impact in the world.

What does the future hold for you?

After graduating from PHCC, I will transfer to a university to get my master’s in communications and broadcasting. I hope one day you’ll see me on “60 Minutes.”

PHCC Foundation: 727.816.3410

12 Perspective

To support a deserving student, give now.

Teddy Bears to the Rescue

Kevin Carroll, Spring Hill assistant fire chief, offers a tour of a fire truck to excited and hesitant, teddy bear toting Damyn and Tiffany Szatkowski.

Teddy bears—the soft, huggable stuffed toys of childhood—provide the sweetest sort of comfort. The cuddly creatures are also used to calm children in times of trauma and stress. A joint effort by the Psi Beta Honor Society, the Psychology Club and the International Club at the Spring Hill Campus drew in what seemed like a ton of teddies last spring.

The advisor of all three clubs, psychology and sociology associate professor Janet Paskins explained that the teddy bear collection demonstrated PHCC’s role as a community partner as well as an educational facility.

“We want to support area residents and social services to

do what we can to fulfill a need,” said Paskins. The impressive assortment of bears, with more than 700 collected in just 30 days, was one such effort. They were presented to the Spring Hill Fire Rescue district in August.

About 25 students from the three organizations worked to distribute flyers and to get the word out. The group garnered extra attention by bearing teddies as they passed out flyers.

Students heading up the project were Alex Bara, Psi Beta Honor Society president, Katelyn Mauro, Psychology Club president, Troy Rosebeck, International Club president, and Indy Szatkowski, secretary of all three groups.

“I received bears from as far away as Iraq and North Carolina,” Paskins said. The student in Iraq contacted family in the states to collect bears and the North Carolina student shipped bears to Florida. Some students collected bears at their job sites. One student collected three bags full of bears.

“This project seemed to touch everybody’s heart.”

“Emails came from students saying, “This is such a great program. How can I help?’” Paskins said. “This project seemed to touch everybody’s heart.”

Winter 2011 13

Alumniprofile

The Sound of Movies

“Jay Forry has reviewed hundreds of movies, but he has never seen one,”

talk show host Jimmy Kimmel quipped as he welcomed PHCC’s famous alum to his live show in July (at right). Jay is the world’s premier blind movie critic. As far as anyone knows, he is one of only two sightless film reviewers in the world.

14 Perspective Perspective

A Conversation with Jay Those who meet him for the first time wonder “How does he do it?”

Those who know him ask “What else has he done?”

And those who know him well are waiting to learn “What will he do next?”

But everyone who encounters Jay Forry, husband, father, PHCC alum and the world’s most famous blind movie critic, agrees on this point: He is a force of

F

ar from being sensitive about his disability, the good-natured 53-year-old bantered easily with the popular late-night TV talk show host. “That movie was so bad, if I could have found the door to the theater I would have left,” said Jay, joking with Jimmy Kimmel about a box office bomb.

When Jay commented that Kimmel probably had not seen a movie recently reviewed on his radio program, “Blindside,” Kimmel quickly cracked, “Well, neither have you!”

In fact, Jay’s appreciation for cinema didn’t dim with his sight, lost 23 years ago to diabetes. At the onset of his blindness, Jay was a tough, hard-working, 27-year-old foreman of a crew of steel workers.

In addition to facing sightlessness, Jay’s kidney was failing after years of dialysis and a transplant was imminent. A doctor told Jay and his wife, Dorothy, still newlyweds, to prepare for the worst.

Handling just one lifechanging health crisis would send most people into a tailspin of despair, but Jay remained confident in his ability to cope. The unwavering love of his brave bride and his young son, Tim, was the support he needed as he adjusted.

“I could not have attended college without Dorothy,

especially in the beginning. She more or less tutored me through it,” Jay said of his wife of 28 years.

“She’s always there to help, and she always gives 100 percent.”

“It was not an effort,” said Dorothy, who went on to earn three master’s degrees and now works as an advisory teacher at the Florida Connections Academy. “Whether it is Jay, our son Tim, or my students, the most I can do is try to help others,” she said. Dorothy often is asked about why she stayed with Jay all these years, and her response is simple and astute.

“I didn’t marry him because he could see me. I married him for who he is. I took vows and made a commitment. Life is life. It’s who you go through it with.”

Pictured in 1994 at a PHCC awards banquet.

nature and testament to how attitude, education and determination can conquer adversity.

Jay granted Perspective a series of interviews to find out more about the man behind the critic.

Q: What was Florida like when you moved from Pennsylvania in 1964?

A: We moved to Temple Terrace first and then to Wesley Chapel in 1969. I’m the oldest of four brothers. We lived on seven acres and I went to Zephyrhills High School. We raised everything: steers, milk cows, heifers, pigs, rabbits, dogs, cats.

We were in 4-H and FFA and competed at the county fair. I was diagnosed with Type A diabetes about that time.

Q: What did you do after high school?

A: My dad was a carpenter. I went to work for him and eventually became a steel construction crew foreman. I held that job for 10 years, married and had a son before I lost my sight at age 27.

Q: How did that come about?

A: There came a point where I could no longer read construction blueprints. I had diabetic retinopathy and lost my sight in about a year-and-a-half. My kidney failed a couple of years later.

Q: How did you cope?

A: I never experienced anger, denial or depression. I had a great support system between family and church. The key was always staying busy.

Q: And that’s when you decided to enroll at PHCC? A: A great counselor from the Division of Blind Services, Tony Ames, asked if I would like to go to college. I think I was the first blind person to enroll at PHCC. It was 1991 and pre-ADA (federal Americans with Disabilities Act). My wife was an insurance agent and took a leave of absence to help me.

Winter 2011 15

But Jay also learned to lean on himself and others while regaining his self-sufficiency and strength.

Q: How was your PHCC experience?

A: I only took two classes my first semester. I studied very hard

A rehabilitation counselor, Tony Ames, suggested that Jay investigate options at Pasco-Hernando Community College. “Attending PHCC was like walking into the arms of a large, extended, caring family,” he said. “The faculty, staff and my classmates encouraged and assisted me. I was accepted and felt loved.”

and got a D on my first test. I thought about quitting. But Pro-

Encouraged to write for the PHCC News, Jay jokingly suggested he become a movie critic and was both touched and surprised when a student editor and PHCC staff agreed.

He honed movie critiquing and writing skills via his bimonthly column “Blindside.” While at PHCC, Jay thrived, winning a bid for Student Government vice president with the slogan “Vote for Jay—He has Vision.” Jay immersed himself in the PHCC experience, assuming leadership roles in student organizations and volunteering for college-supported activities and service projects.

even a bigger deal than getting my bachelor’s degree at (the

Professor Connie LaMarca-Frankel, pictured at right, with the Forrys in 1994, has taught humanities at PHCC for 23 years. She was one of Jay and Dorothy’s first instructors. “I learned so much from them…it was a very positive experience,” she said. “Jay never let his lack of sight get in the way. It simply was not an issue for him… nothing was impossible.”

fessor Larry Eason talked me out of it. I got three As on my next tests and wound up with a B for the class. I never looked back.

I would have really struggled going to another college. At PHCC the classes weren’t so big and it was so much more about the student. (Everyone) was interested in helping me. It was not easy in the beginning and I was very worried. But the instructors were fantastic. Earning my associate’s degree at PHCC was University of South Florida).

Q: We know the story about how your career as a movie critic at PHCC’s student newspaper began on a lark, but now you’ve parlayed that into a professional career.

What’s your secret to success?

A: I do a lot of research before I go into the theater. I know what the setting is, who the actors are, when it takes place, and what’s going on. I don’t go in blind.

Q: You’ve had many articles written about you. You’re on dozens of radio stations. You’ve been on national TV. Do you feel like a celebrity?

A: I honestly don’t. I did have a lady at Perkins Restaurant recognize me by my laugh one time. And after I did Jimmy Kimmel’s show, I was at a Rays’ game and someone made the connection.

Q: What do you do for fun?

A: I like to take risks—to a point. Since I have been blind, I have snow skied, water skied, white water rafted, golfed and driven ATVs. My son is in the Army and has his jump wings. I can’t let him out do me, so I want to parachute at least once.

Q: What about less risky pastimes?

A: I love audio books, eating out at restaurants and going to movies—it’s a hobby, as well as a profession.

Q: What’s the best advice you received?

A: Long ago I read a quote by Chuck Swindoll: “Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you react to it.” Although I may not be able to change my situation, I can change my attitude. One day I would like to write a book about

Jay transitioned from PHCC to the University of South Florida in Tampa, giving up “Blindside” temporarily to concentrate on his studies in social work. He graduated magna cum laude in 1997. His column, and the honors he claimed at both PHCC and at USF, however, did not go unnoticed by the local media.

my life. The title would be Attitude is Everything.

His unusual reviews grew in sophistication even as he continued to rely on Dorothy and friends to offer visual summaries of movies. “Jay reveals

hands you—it shows the kind of person you are.

16 Perspective

Q: What advice would you give to beginning students?

A: When you get to college, take advantage of all the extracurricular activities you can. Always do the best with what life

amazing perception,” a fan commented.

“He perceives elements that most of us miss because we are distracted by visual effects.

Jay notes the nuances.”

interviews, I felt my friends at PHCC cheering me on,” Jay said. “I could never see them, but I always sensed their support.”

In fact, scriptwriters express ideas through dialogue, on which all other elements of Jay worked part-time movie-making are built. Music and sound counseling troubled youths, effects often are not consciously noted by tapping into his social work typical audiences. Jay absorbs movies with degree and engaging others heightened sensitivity with his positive to auditory cues that attitude and warm forewarn disaster or personality. He “During interviews, provide a background connects easily I felt my friends at for levity, drama, with others, PHCC cheering me on. suspense or romance. including disabled As credits roll, typical children. “The kids I could never see them, moviegoers can’t have problems, I but I always sensed recall soundtracks have problems,” and other auditory he commented. their support.” Jay said. elements carefully “They’ve seen me woven through films. accomplish what Jay easily isolates turning points in plot and seems impossible, beating ties music and sound effects to key scenes. incredible odds.” Though Jay In 1995, at a PHCC student activities community service lost his counseling position to event, Jay passes out cupcakes to awaiting children.

Charming, humorous and prolific, Jay budget cuts, he continues to gained wide popularity on the local talk employ a stand up comic’s style in speaking show circuit and was featured in newspaper engagements, works with disabled youth articles. Soon his “Blindside” column was and adults, and frequents the local radio picked up by multiple local papers, which and TV talk show circuit. He encourages then drew media interest across the nation everyone, regardless of perceived and beyond. limitations, to pursue opportunities through All along, Jay kept his PHCC family higher education. He continues to critique of supporters apprised of his career. at least two, and sometimes as many as four, Whenever Jay appears on local talk shows, movies a week on “Blindside,” now a radio administrators notify the staff. “During program broadcast internationally, and participates in reviewing movies for the popular Critic’s Choice Awards.

Jay is a devoted advocate for community colleges, reserving a special place in his heart for PHCC. It was never more evident than when he expressed his appreciation to Pasco-Hernando Community College from Hollywood on Jimmy Kimmel Live. PHCC students and staff alike were thrilled.

Jay never has failed to express his gratitude to PHCC. “My story is undeniably unique,” Jay explained. “Blindness is not a blessing, but I have worked hard to positively influence people with my story. The support provided by PHCC was so pivotal; I don’t believe I could have found such encouragement anywhere else.”

Still devoted to each other, Jay and Dorothy Forry today.

Winter 2011 17

Millennials Make Room for Mature Students

S

tepping into a college classroom after decades away can be unnerving. Many students are much younger and so technologically literate. While seniors may flounder with computers and flip phones, their youthful classmates—sometimes the same age as their kids—flaunt skills with smart phones, YouTube and Twitter. Yet college invites older students back to master skills that can provide a competitive edge in a tight job market—especially when middle-aged adults face painful mid-career job losses.

To reintroduce students 50 years of age and older to the academic environment, PHCC is participating in the Plus 50 Completion Strategy, a program designed for older adults who have earned college credit, but never finished degrees or certificates.

As of January 2012, the plan will transition these students back into academia, providing streamlined registration, seminars, workshops and counseling until they are prepared to plunge into a degree or certificate program.

18 Perspective

“The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that more than 30 percent of the nation’s fastest growing occupations will be filled by people with postsecondary credentials,” says Debby Duncan, manager of PHCC’s Encore Academy, which coordinates the Plus 50 Completion Strategy initiative.

The program is available to Florida residents who are 50 or older through Encore Academy. For $125 per semester, members can take computer workshops, one three-credit class, and noncredit enrichment courses, ranging from dance to digital photography. If needed, students will enroll in math and English refresher classes to prep for placement tests and register for workshops that explore career opportunities and technology. Program participants can transition into credit-earning classes any time after the first semester.

“The plus 50 workforce has a different work ethic,” says Duncan. “Often they’re loyal, hard working employees, not job jumpers.”

In the past, older students typically returned to college for teacher recertification, to satisfy a love for learning or to follow a dream that childrearing and life originally delayed. Today trends demonstrate that many older adults reenroll in college programs to acquire credentials or workforce training, often in a field new to them.

Cheryl Downey, 52, is taking her first credit course this fall and hopes it will lead to a degree in cyber law. “I was a little apprehensive,” she admits. “I pictured a class full of teeny boppers, but discovered many students in their 40s and 50s, just like me.”

PHCC hopes there will be many more students like Downey on campus soon.

Imagine Peace im·ag·ine: to form a mental image; to

think, believe, fancy, assume, or conjecture.

Add the definition of the word “imagine” to the concept of peace and the possibilities are awe inspiring. Peace Week 2011’s theme, Imagine the Possibilities of Peace, encouraged students, faculty, staff and the community to consider a world without conflict. The weeklong celebration in October underscored that peace is not simply the absence of war, but a constantly changing and fragile ideology threatened when people are not provided opportunities to express themselves and connect with one another. This year’s activities, designed to introduce and develop insights into the possibility of peace, included keynote speakers, guest lecturers, exhibits, presentations, interactive workshops and musical performances. At the West Campus, Buddhist monks created a sand mandala, a tradition associated with the most profound and elaborate Buddhist ceremonies in Tibet. Understanding and respecting the cultural differences and beliefs of others was underscored throughout the week’s activities. Events included collegewide religion festivals, drum circles, exhibits and displays. Students and visitors conveyed ideas about peace through artistic activities. Peace Week 2011 was sponsored

by PHCC Student Activities Office, PHCC’s Peace and Social Justice Institute, and the St. Petersburg Times.

Enrichment Options Flourish

MA R YOU K C AL R EN D AR!

PHCC will proudly present Art & Culture Week, a new springtime event that will feature collegewide activities, festivals, workshops and presentations. The weeklong exploration of art and culture, March 12–15, 2012, will present an array of activities from spray can artists to Java & Jazz Night and much more! The event will demonstrate how artistic expression enhances learning and enjoyment of life. Included in the showcase of cultures will be days designated to exploring Asian, Hispanic, Jamaican and Polynesian cultures. Additionally, the college art gallery on the West Campus will host a collection of illustrations and sculptures, considered the “secret” art of Dr. Seuss in Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss presented

by Tammy White Galleries. This special exhibit displaying the little known artistic endeavors of the beloved writer will be on display in the gallery from February 23–April 5.

Winter 2011 19

Athletics

For updates on the past athletic year, visit www.phcc.edu/athletics

New Coach Seeks Slam Dunk Season true point guard and floor general, will add to the energy and toughness to the back court.

Cross Country Going the Distance

The men’s basketball team jumped into the 2011-12 season with enthusiasm, adapting to a new brand of basketball under new Athletic Director and Head Basketball Coach James E. Johnson. Earlier this year, Johnson replaced the retiring Bobby Bowman, a hall of fame nominee who established the PHCC athletic program in 1991 and guided the basketball team for 25 years.

The seventh annual PHCC 5k attracted more than 200 participants to the October 23 event. Leading the way to first overall female was sophomore Kayla Bratche at 19:26 followed by Colleen McAuliffe at 19:3, with both women logging personal bests and breaking into the 19s for the first time in 2011. Christa Acosta (20:04), Natalie Dudley (20:34) and Marissa Tomei (20:52) rounded out the top five performers. All 13 Lady Quista cross country team members competed in the 5k, posting results that boost the team standing to eighth in the nation. The team went to Hobbs, New Mexico, for the NJCAA National Cross Country Meet in November with their sights set on improving their 20th place finish from 2010. Not only did they improve, but the team raced to a 13th place finish. This is by far the program’s highest finish in its seven-year history.

“I’m excited about my first season at PHCC. The players have come together as a team,” said Coach Johnson. “Already there is chemistry on the court, which is an important indicator of success. The team is eager to succeed, but with so many new members, and a new coach, it’s a continuous learning process.”

The Conquistadors welcomed back four players who helped net last season’s NJCAA Division II Regional appearance: Alvin Satram, Ladarius Barnes, Brice Smith and Srdjan Jankovic.

Among other strong performers, Satram and Barnes possess the skills needed to lead the Quistas back to the NJCAA Division II Regional.

Sophomore, senior point guard Satram started in 30 games last season, averaging 9.46 per game, while Barnes averaged 9.3 points per game as a true freshman in 2010-11. Returning forwards Jankovic and Smith each appeared in at least 20 games offering veteran expertise to the slate of freshmen players. A talented crop of newcomers, including William Ramos and Kelby Robinson, are expected to pick up the loss of last season’s sophomore scoring leaders, Pedro Foster and Isaiah Mason. New-comers Derrick Zio, Scott Cargile, Aron Handan and Michael Wood hope to compensate on the inside while Delonte Marshall, the Quistas only 20 Perspective

2011 Cross Country Team

V-ball Sets Another Season of Success

In its second year of Division II competition, the women’s volleyball team held a season record of 28–9, ranking sixth in its division going into the regional tournament in Dobson, North Carolina, on November 5. After winning the regional tournament, the team advanced to the national tournament held at Owens Community College in Toledo, Ohio, from November 17–19, where the top 16 teams within the division and from across the country competed in a double elimination consolation tournament. This year, PHCC lost in the first round.

studentprofile

A Journey Just Beginning Dual enrollment student serves on Hernando County School Board

Tori Selby addresses student delegates at Nature Coast Technical High School during her campaign for the first student representative on the School Board in Hernando County. Selby won in a landslide victory.

V

ictoria Selby has a plan for her life—earn a Ph.D. in U.S. history and teach either in high school or college. As a high school freshman, she conferred with her parents to decide which academic path best suited her plan—International Baccalaureate Program or Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment. She chose the latter. Tori, as she is commonly known, is poised to receive both her high school diploma and an Associate in Arts degree from PHCC in spring 2012. There have been times, she admits, when it’s been a challenge to find time to just be a kid.

Passion is her driver and time management is her salvation. In addition to her love for learning and history, she wants to help people. Over the last four years, Tori logged 528 volunteer hours, working at a soup kitchen every Sunday, teaching weekly religion classes for seventh graders, tutoring, organizing “hero” dinners for local fire departments, raising money for muscular dystrophy, cancer, and Haiti disaster relief organizations, and serving as president of her Beta Club chapter. She also founded the local chapter of People to People, a national organization that provides leadership development and service projects worldwide for students.

“She’s driven and involved and has fantastic organizational skills,” says John Imhof, who teaches AP history at Springstead High School in Spring Hill. “She’s mature beyond her years.”

Students in the 22 Hernando Country schools recognized these qualities and elected her to be the

first student representative on the Hernando County School Board in September. The non-voting position was created last summer to ensure that student perspectives and concerns were represented on the board. Tori takes the position seriously. “The board’s decisions affect our daily lives,” she says. “They need to know how these decisions impact their constituents.”

Photographer: Will Vragovic Photo courtesy of the St. Petersburg Times

Those decisions could pertain to everything from cell phone use during the school day to changes in academic programs, from the dress code to magnet schools, from lunch programs to eliminating bus service for students who live within two miles of their school.

“We talked with students and parents on a limited basis in the past,” says board chair James Yant. “Now we devote part of our agenda to Tori at every meeting.

It’s working really well. She’s very articulate and not intimidated by us at all.”

Tori is not only learning firsthand how government works, but also how to represent a constituency.

She has an office at Springstead with regular hours, an email address, and a dedicated telephone where students can contact her. She visits other schools to learn about students’ concerns and holds meetings with delegates from each school in the county. “They believed I was the most qualified person for this position,” she says, “and I’m not going to let them down.”

In the fall, Tori plans to continue studying U.S. history at the University of Florida and then hopes to do graduate work at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Winter 2011 21

FoundationNews

Recent Gifts Enrich the Lives of Others “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

— Winston Churchill

Tom Hogan, Hernando Healthcare Foundation and Melissa Pomeroy, Hernando Healthcare Foundation Scholarship Recipient.

The Foundation recently received an $83,000 gift from the Hernando Healthcare Foundation to provide nursing scholarships for residents of Hernando County. The Hernando Healthcare Foundation Nursing Scholarship will provide $10,000 for 10 annual scholarships during the 2012-13 academic year.

The contribution balance will be used to increase the scholarship endowment.

This donation comes on the heels of an $80,000 gift last year to support nursing and radiography scholarships.

“This gift will help grow the scholarship fund, generating greater earnings to serve more students in perpetuity.

We are very thankful for the generosity of the Hernando Healthcare Foundation” —Arla Altman, executive director, PHCC Foundation, Inc.

22 Perspective

From left: Shalin Shah, COO, Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point; Maria Hixon, PHCC Foundation director of development; and Shayne George, president/CEO, Regional Medical Center The Florida College System Foundation and Blue Cross Blue Shield provided a matching grant opportunity for the PHCC Foundation. The $11,900 grant was to be matched with private dollars to provide nursing and allied health scholarships. Two donors graciously volunteered to help meet this challenge. Together, the Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, of Hudson, with a gift of $6,000 (photo above) and Burgess Chambers & Associates, of Winter Park, will help provide 24 scholarships for the 2011–2012 academic year.

“The healthcare industry and hospitals in particular have a great demand for skilled providers in many areas, including nurses, technicians and assistants. We are confident in PHCC developing the local talent to provide healthcare for this region for years to come.”

— Shayne George, President/CEO, Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point.

PHCC Foundation Board members Andrew Barnes and Dr. Joel Goldberg are inspiring others to give through their recent leadership gifts. Barnes contributed $10,000 for the Lucy Morgan First Generation in College Scholarship, which was matched under the First Generation Matching Grant Program through the state of Florida. Barnes is a resident of Dade City and a retired St. Petersburg Times CEO. Goldberg donated $5,000 to the West Pasco Dental Association Scholarship. Established in 1992, this endowed scholarship supports students in the dental hygiene program, which ranks among the best in the nation. Goldberg is a prosthodontist with a practice in Port Richey.

FoundationNews

From left: Monica Mills, PHCC Foundation board chair; Judy Parker, member of the Rotary Club of New Port Richey; Dr. Katherine Johnson, PHCC president; and Jeff Miller.

The Jeff Miller Scholarship was recently established with a $5,000 contribution from the Rotary Club of New Port Richey and gifts from four anonymous donors. This $10,000 scholarship endowment honors Jeff Miller for his extraordinary efforts to preserve the history of New Port Richey and surrounding areas. He created www.fivay.org, a treasure chest of information that chronicle’s the county’s past. The scholarship will benefit Pasco County residents enrolled at PHCC.

From left: Sheriff Al Nienhuis, president, YES! Board; Sue Raffensperger, community outreach; Carolyn Harris, PHCC precollegiate program coordinator; and Maria Hixon, PHCC Foundation director of development.

The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office Youth Education Services Board contributed $3,500 to PHCC’s Take Stock in Children Program of Hernando County.

The $3,500 scholarship will be matched by Florida Prepaid and benefit a Hernando County middle school to high school age student who completes the program successfully. Upon high school graduation, the recipients will be awarded a full two-year academic scholarship.

The program mentors at-risk youth through high school graduation and college.

Rays Baseball Foundation presents PHCC with $5,000 award. From left: Brian Auld, Rays senior vice president and Rays Baseball Foundation board member; Maria Hixon, PHCC director of development; Gus Guadagnino, vice chair, PHCC Foundation Board of Directors; Suzanne Murchland, Rays director of community relations and foundation executive director; and Rays mascot, Raymond.

PHCC’s Concept College Program recently tions competing for 15 community fund received two grants. The Community grants from the Rays Baseball Foundation, Foundation of Pasco County (a division which were awarded at a special event held of the Community Foundation of Tampa at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg.

Bay) and the Rays Baseball Foundation These grants will enhance Concept Community Fund Grant provided $5,000 College’s efforts to engage economically grants each to support the program. This is disadvantaged, disabled and minority the second time CFPC has made a gift to students and others at-risk of dropping the program. This is the first time the Rays out of school. Pasco and Hernando county Baseball Foundation has contributed to the schools partner with PHCC to identify program. The PHCC Foundation was students and encourage them to consider among 85 youth and education organizathe opportunities college provides.

From left: Maria Hixon, director of development, PHCC Foundation; Marcia Kielar, recruiter/promoter specialist, PHCC; and Dave Fischer, president and CEO, Community Foundation of Tampa Bay.

Winter 2011 23

FoundationNews

PHCC Foundation Donor Honored The Rotary Club of New Port Richey was honored as the 2011 Philanthropic Service Organization of the Year at the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Nature Coast National Philanthropy Day in November. This remarkable service organization was nominated by both the PHCC Foundation and the HPH Hospice Foundation for its uncommon leadership and commitment in giving back to the community.

Dr. Donald Cadle, president, Rotary Club of New Port Richey, receives AFP award from Arla Altman, PHCC dean of institutional advancement and executive director, PHCC Foundation, and president, Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Nature Coast Chapter.

Since 1995, the Rotary Club of New Port Richey has made a dramatic difference in the lives of 62 PHCC students by providing them with more than $40,000 in financial aid through seven endowed scholarships with a combined fund balance of more than $100,000. The Rotary Club also contributes annually to the PHCC Foundation’s Library Development Fund through its speaker’s bureau program. Since its inception in 2007, the program has provided more than $6,000 in resources for the college by recognizing each speaker with a book plate in one of the library’s new volumes.

National Philanthropy Day was established by the AFP to celebrate the positive impact that philanthropy has on changing lives and the community.

AFP is the professional association of individuals and organizations that generates philanthropic support for a wide variety of charitable institutions.

The Tao of Everest In a joint fundraising effort, PHCC and the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Nature Coast co-hosted the Tao of

Through the Power of Giving PHCC Employees Make a Difference

PHCC employees launched the 2011 Giving Campaign in October on All College Day. The eight-week annual campaign partners with the PHCC Foundation to fund important initiatives 500 of the College and to highlight the internal 450 commitment, which encourages gifts from 400 community donors. This investment is re350 turned to PHCC through scholarships for 3 00 students, professional development opportunities for employees and other needs.

250 PHCC has exceeded the 60 percent partici- 200 pation goal of the 2011 Employee Giving 150 Campaign. Members of the Committee 100 include: By Campus 50 East: Wendy Beard, Barbara Craig, 0 Elizabeth Reichow, Wendy Villa North: Jo-Ann Cary, James Grieg Spring Hill: Karin Glessner, Lynne Pinney West: Bob Bade, Stephen Baricko, Courtney Boettcher, Vincent Daviero, Patricia Oles,Patti Phillips, Edward Siegel, Debby Strasser PHCC Foundation: Judy Ventsam 24 Perspective

From the left: Monica Mills, PHCC Foundation board chair; Ian Woodall; Craig McCart, executive director, Sertoma Speech and Hearing Foundation of Fla., Inc. and director, Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Everest lecture in September at the West Campus Performing Arts Center. Ian Woodall, leader of four Mount Everest expeditions, presented “Lessons Learned from Both a Rock and Hard Place.” A mountaineer, author and motivational speaker, Woodall shared his insights gained on the mountain that relate to everyday challenges.

Woodall relayed life changing experiences learned about triumph, tragedy, the thrills and sacrifices of achievement and the human spirit. The presentation highlighted the mountaineer’s legendary expeditions on Mount Everest and the gentle art of personal inspiration and practical leadership. This event was sponsored by the PHCC Foundation, HPH Hospice and the St. Petersburg Times.

FoundationNews

Snapshot of PHCC Foundation’s planned giving website’s home page.

The PHCC Foundation launched its first planned giving website to educate donors and provide information on making charitable planned gifts. Resources include an online will and personal planner, financial and government news articles, charitable deduction calculators, donor gift proposals and weekly newsletters for donors and professional advisors. The site also includes donor stories and recent gifts to the Foundation.

Good Planning Requires Good Information

Rising property values, growth of investments, various life insurance products, as well as changing tax laws require thoughtful planning for the future. Visit our gift planning website to find timely articles, valuable resources and sign up for our eNewsletter: www.foundation4phcc.org to learn more about how a planned gift will benefit you, your family and PHCC.

Results-Driven, Training Solutions…

in Your Own Backyard • Invest in your people: Promote and support professional development

• Offer convenient programs: Onsite or at a PHCC location

World Class Training at Local Rates.

Corporate Training: 727.816.3122 or corporatetraining@phcc.edu

• Provide customized training: With highly qualified instructors

Alumninotes 1978

Jimmy Jackson earned a bachelor’s degree from FSU in 1980 and was a licensed Florida realtor until 1992.

He later served as a retail manager for Barnes & Noble Booksellers and retired in 2002. Jackson is a 15-year survivor of brain cancer.

1988

Diana Joyner-Mattox received the Judy Schwartz Humanitarian Award from the Humane Society of the Nature Coast for making a significant impact on animal welfare and the Gold Star Award from the Florida Veterinary Medical Association for animal welfare advocacy in Pasco County. Joyner-Mattox earned her D.V.M. at the University of Florida in 1995 and has operated an animal vet practice in San Antonio, Florida, since 1997. She is the founder and president of Spay Pasco, a nonprofit spay/neuter assistance organization, and a member of the Pasco County Animal Services advisory committee and the Coalition for Animal Welfare, West Central Florida.

1997

Greg Jones was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in 1996 and retired from baseball following the 2008 season. He was a relief pitcher for the Angels and spent six years as a pitcher for the Salt Lake Bees.

Jones is now an insurance agent in his hometown of Seminole, Florida.

2008

Jordan Cheek is attending the University of Florida Levin School of Law in Gainesville.

Milene Crossman is an advanced standing student in the Master of Social Work program at Abilene Christian University in Abilene, Texas.

Taylor Pohlman was named assistant coach to the Lady Blues volleyball team for Washburn University, Topeka, Kansas. Pohlman joins Washburn after one year as the head volleyball coach at the University School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A native of Olathe, Kansas, Pohlman played volleyball at PHCC and later at Nova Southeastern University, where she holds the record for kills per game and helped lead the Sharks to an NCAA-II Regional appearance as a junior.

“I’m excited to return to the collegiate game and look forward to joining Washburn’s program as a coach and continuing the college’s winning tradition,” said Pohlman.

2009

Danny Huffor, who played basketball at PHCC, now plays for the Glasgow Rocks, a pro team in Scotland.

After PHCC, Huffor played at Newberry College in South Carolina. For the last two summers, he practiced with players from the University of South Florida and the NBA twins, Joey and Steven Graham.

Huffor played in a summer Pro-Am camp in Tampa and at camps in Las Vegas, which led to his invitation to join the Rocks.

2010

Spenser Bahr works as a personal trainer in Zephyrhills, but enjoys writing, performing and recording country songs. Until he lands a recording contract, check out his Railroad Track video posted on YouTube. Bahr is represented by talent agent Stacey Lee of Wesley Chapel.

Vernon Duncan is a technical analyst in information technology at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point.

Visit www.phcc.edu/alumni

to submit your news online or send an email to alumni@phcc.edu.

Lucy Morgan, ’72, has been selected to receive a 2012 Outstanding Alumni Award from the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). As a St. Petersburg Times reporter in 1985, Morgan made history as the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in investigative reporting.

The “retired” reporter, editor and Times Publishing Company board member still routinely posts news and political commentary in the Times.

Morgan will be honored at the AACC convention in April 2012 to be held in Orlando.

26 Perspective

2nd Annual Golf Tournament Quarry Course Lecanto, FL A sold-out crowd gathered from all corners of the state at Black Diamond Ranch in Lecanto for the second annual PHCC Golf Tournament on Halloween. Black Diamond Ranch, a premiere golf course carved around a limestone quarry, provided breathtaking views as First place net team from left: Jonathan the backdrop for PHCC’s golf event. First place gross team from left: Brandon Garrett, Graham, Jimmy Jones of GPM.

Keith Kirschner, Tommy Golladay; not pictured, Gary McDonald of C&N Foundation Technologies.

PHCC tournament players enjoyed a day filled with fun, food and buckets of “treats” for everyone to enjoy. Participants especially appreciated event concessions, including ice cream, specialty drinks and fresh grilled brats.

Keith Kirschner and Gary McDonald of C&N Foundation Technologies. Scott Hagland, Ken Peters, Randy Webb and Travis Wellman of OMNI International received the second place team award.

Golfers competed as teams and as individuals, vying for wins in putting, closest-to-the-pin, longest drive and hole-in-one competitions. The golfers enjoyed an awards banquet, featuring food prepared by Chef Victor, with prizes, trophies and more than $7,000 in auction items.

The event raised more than $23,000 for student scholarships, academic and athletic programs, libraries and other college initiatives. The PHCC Foundation thanks Ace sponsors Batson-Cook and SunTrust; Eagle sponsors Florida Architects and RIPA & Associates; Euro American Tours; Burgess Chambers & Associates; all other sponsors and donors; the Foundation Golf Committee of Kevin Ahrens, Nita Melaugh (chair) and Frank Rygiel; volunteer and tournament players.

Jonathan Graham and Jimmy Jones of GPM were the first place net team. The first place gross team award went to Brandon Garrett, Tommy Golladay,

Second place team from left: Scott Hagland, Travis Wellman, Randy Webb, Ken Peters of OMNI International.

ACE sponsors from left: Frank Rygiel, Batson-Cook; Monica Mills, PHCC Foundation board chair; James Kimbrough, Sr., president SunTrust, Brooksville.

EAGLE sponsors from left: Monica Mills, Markus Gemsch, Florida Architects, Inc; Not shown: Chris LaFace, RIPA & Associates.

Winter 2011 27

Flashback…

The Pinning Tradition

For more than 150 years, the pinning ceremony has been the rite of passage for new nurses. The lapel pin with a design unique to each school is bestowed upon students in this solemn observance marking the end of official training. Before nursing programs moved into colleges and universities, training was conducted exclusively in hospitals, and the pin distinguished skilled nurses from students.

Florence Nightingale, who laid the foundation for professional nursing, started the custom in the 1860s at her nursing school in St. Thomas Hospital in London.

The practice soon crossed the Atlantic Ocean. The first U.S.-based pins were awarded in 1880 at Bellevue Hospital in New York City. Soon the practice spread to every hospital training program in the land. Today, some schools have discontinued the ceremony, but PHCC continues the tradition, pinning nursing students on commencement day, when students also receive their AS degree or Technical Certificate.

The West Campus Performing Arts Center sets the scene for the nursing pinning ceremonies today.

28 Perspective

The PHCC pinning ceremony has changed little since the first one in 1979, although the staging has become more sophisticated as graduating classes have grown.

Today about 100 students are pinned in May, about 50 in July and another 100 in December each year.

Nearly 4,200 students have graduated from PHCC’s nursing program since its inception. Held on the West Campus Performing Arts Center stage, the heart of the ceremony is the conferring of pins by faculty members, the lighting of the ceremonial lamps, and reciting the Nightingale Pledge.

Nightingale became known as the Lady with the Lamp because she visited wounded soldiers at night during the Crimean War. Today the iconic lamp symbolizes commitment and dedication to the nursing profession.

As graduating classes at PHCC grew, so did the concern about hundreds of lighted lamps during the ceremony. Today nursing staff members light their lamps from a three-wick candle and then pass the flame on only to students in the front rows and to those on the outside edge of each subsequent row. The remaining students have battery operated lamps that flicker like a lighted candle.

Then president Dr. Milton O. Jones pins graduating nurses in the early ’80s.

The Nightingale Pledge is an adaptation of the Hippocratic Oath taken by physicians and was written by a nursing instructor in Detroit and first used in 1893.

Many schools, including PHCC, have updated the language of the pledge, but its essence remains a commitment by the graduating students to the ethics of nursing and patient care.

Nightingale Pledge I solemnly pledge myself before God and in the presence of this assembly

to pass my life in integrity and to practice my profession ethically.

I will maintain competency and

be always mindful of patient safety— I will not take or knowingly

administer any harmful drug.

I will do all in my power to elevate the standard of my profession, and will

hold in confidence all personal matters

committed to my keeping, and all family matters coming to my knowledge

during my nursing practice.

With loyalty I endeavor to devote myself to the welfare of those committed to my care.

Skanska USA Building presents 6TH ANNUAL CATCH AND RELEASE FISHING TOURNAMENT

Catches Waterfront Grille 7811 Bayview Street Port Richey

Friday, May 4, 2012

Join us for this exciting event to benefit the PHCC Foundation

Species Categories: Trout, Snook, and Redfish

1st, 2nd & 3rd Place: Total Inches

Single Awards: Biggest Single Fish (one award for each species)

Master Angler Award: Biggest Cobia

Includes: USCG professional guide captain, boat, tackle and bait, official tournament shirts, goodie bags, breakfast, lunch, and awards party.

For more information, call 727-816-3410 or visit www.phcc.edu/gofish

Pasco-Hernando Community College 10230 Ridge Rd. New Port Richey, FL 34654

NON PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 6374 TAMPA, FL

Be Remembered in PHCC’s Performing Arts Center PHCC’s recently renovated Performing Arts Center now features new seats, carpeting and stage curtains. To celebrate our new look, the PHCC Foundation is offering opportunities to purchase engraved name plates for placement on seats in the Performing Arts Center. The polished brass plates may be engraved with the names of donors or the names of friends or family members.

Certificates recognizing patrons will be mailed to you or your honoree with the row, seat number and chosen text included. Consider this unique opportunity to recognize, memorialize or honor a PHCC graduate or someone special for a tax deductible contribution of $100.

For details, please visit www.phcc.edu/foundation, or call 727-816-3410.