A YEAR IN REVIEW Dear LIBI Community On October 15, I was reminded of the true sense of community and cohesion we enjoy at LIBI. I accompanied members of the faculty and staff, along with 48 students, on a five-mile walk around Central Park in support of Making Strides against Breast Cancer. As we kicked off the walk before 8
a.m. --on a Sunday--the high level of camaraderie and dedication was strongly evident. Unquestionably, raising funds to combat breast cancer is crucial, and our team was joined by thousands who share this
mission. It should be pointed out that a small, career-oriented college like LIBI made a difference, raising $1,135 for the effort.
This walk was only one of many instances when LIBI proved to be far more than three campuses in which students come to learn and faculty and staff come to work. In this newsletter, you will note that the articles are thematically arranged. The concepts that “We Care” and “We Strive”, along with “We
Support” and “We Lead” were absolutely underscored in our breast cancer walk. The fact that 48 students showed up early to support the cause is truly indicative of our “We Build” theme—a community has
been built and continues to be built within LIBI. In September, all the incredible work displayed at our
Art Show demonstrated “We Have Talent”. Every time we graduate another new crop of LIBI alumni, as we did back in July, and each and every day students arrive at our campuses to improve their—and their families’ futures—“We Strive”. During this process, “We Discover” new career paths, new pathways
to further education, new ways of tackling problems. As I walk the halls of the campuses across the academic year, I see how “We Motivate” one another—and I see how “We Grow” from candidates looking to enter the collegiate world to graduates entering an entirely improved and exciting future.
I encourage you, as you read the articles herein, to consider each of these thematic concepts and how you see evidence of “We ___” within LIBI in your daily life. Please share these thoughts with us.
As always, LIBI is consistently looking to better understand the issues of importance to our students, alumni, and the community at large. I welcome your thoughts and recommendations about our college.
Warm regards,
Monica W. Foote President
2016
THE LIBI LOG
we CARE | Written by Ronald Murray
The action that results in empowerment and strength, encompasses planning events, activities, and future endeavors, which are part and parcel to what is key at LIBI, “WE”:
• We Care • We Strive • We Discover • We Build • We Support
• We Grow • We Lead • We Motivate • We Have Talent
We CARE when donating to, advocating for, and playing an active role in the walks to fight diabetes and autism, and to promote suicide prevention and strides against breast cancer. We STRIVE as educators to ensure that our students embark on careers after graduation that reflect the skills they have acquired at LIBI. It reveals how well we’ve done our jobs to prepare our students to move ahead, whether they decide to work or continue their education. When we help our students to realize their goals, it is important that they DISCOVER certain things for themselves. Through Job Fairs and Transfer Fairs, sponsored by the Career Services Department, and on educational trips where students explore for themselves what lies ahead, we help them better understand what they will encounter once they graduate. This also helps to BUILD character, not only through hard work in the classroom, but also through community and hands-on involvement, such as by working in the student store or becoming IRS-certified to prepare taxes through the VITA program. We SUPPORT our students by providing well trained members of the college community who are experts in their fields. We further support, strengthen, and guide our students
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through special events like I Commit to Complete, and by welcoming visiting professionals who visit classrooms to talk with our students. We all GROW, (and we’re not only referring to our students – we mean everyone!) as students advance to the next level in pursuit of their educational goals, becoming accepted to the many senior colleges with which LIBI has articulation agreements. Our faculty members are elevated through professional development and faculty convocation workshops, where they are given the opportunity to meet famous authors like James M. Lang. LIBI continues to be at the forefront by providing our students and the entire college community with important information assuring them that “you’re not alone” on issues like domestic violence, dating violence, FERPA, Title IX and the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. We LEAD the way in working with organizations like the Family Justice Center, New York Asian Women’s Center, the Foundation for A Drug-Free World, and other organizations. At LIBI, we work diligently to set up innovative events to MOTIVATE students and to make learning fun. “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” is taken seriously when we boost college spirits through class trips, purely for fun, along with helping everyone in the college community, especially our students, to realize that WE HAVE TALENT at LIBI’s annual art show. This will be the last edition of the LIBI Log. However, keeping everyone informed is still a priority. We are working on creating a great successor because, LIBI C.A.R.E.S. and WE ARE LIBI.
we CARE
TEAM LIBI | Written by Ronald Murray
For the second year in a role, on October 16, 2016, Team LIBI, Beating Cancer through Hope & Unity, made strides against breast cancer by joining thousands of others for the 5-mile walk around Central Park. It may sound ironic to use the words “joyous occasion” for something as serious as breast cancer, but it seemed appropriate when I looked around at everyone at this event and saw so many decked out in pink. Our very own Anna Venturino sported a pink wig, and Jhonatan Aybar a pink Mohawk, along with many others with pink t-shirts, beaded necklace, socks, hats, headbands, and boas. Music sounded as dancing and cheering abounded. You just couldn’t help getting caught up in this wonderful and uplifting walk against breast cancer. I overheard a colleague talking with a former student of mine discussing breast augmentation, and because they knew it was not a criticism, the two did not mind when I commented that I assumed it was something
done mostly out of vanity. Breast cancer, I believed, was rare in young women. As the student was about to leave, she turned to my colleague, and said, “You can tell Mr. Murray… “ I had to sit down when I was told she had undergone a mastectomy. Knowing that she was still in her 20s, I could only say, “but she’s so young”. I learned that breast cancer doesn’t discriminate on the basis of race, nationality, or even age, apparently. Making Strides against Breast Cancer in Central Park started at the 72nd Street band shell in Central Park and continued, as a fivemile walk, throughout the park. This was only
one of many walks throughout the city and the country. A total of 48 students from LIBI, along with the college president, provost, teachers and staff joined in the walk and, because this was not considered a race, many of us met up at the finish line to cheer and congratulate one another for a job well done. We can all be proud as many members of the college community made generous donations. We were able to raise $750.00 for the 2015 breast cancer fundraiser, and this year over $1,135.00.
I'M A BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR | Written by Raquel Laboy
At the age of 30 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. When the doctor broke the news to me, it felt as though what was happening was surreal. When I saw the doctor in a face-to-face conversation about the severity of my condition, the first thing I said was “MY DAUGHTER!” Since then all I have thought about is my daughter (Giselle) and the need to survive. Before surgery, I went through a test for the BRCA gene, but it was negative. However, since a few family members are breast cancer survivors, I decided to have a bilateral mastectomy followed by a breast reconstruction. That was the hardest decision in my entire life, but as some may say “If life throws you a lemon, learn to make lemonade”. I went through six months of chemotherapy, two months of radiation and I am still receiving hormonal chemotherapy. Through this process, I had the support of special people in my life, from my own family, as well as from my pastor, whose family treated me like one of their own. Their support meant so much to me; I couldn’t have done it without them. My pastor (Judith Del Valle) was there with me since day one. I thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for permitting me to live a little longer. My gratitude has led me to some important decisions that will benefit me as well my family. I had always wanted to finish school and be an example to my family by demonstrating that God always gives you the opportunity for a better future. By the grace of God, I was referred by a friend to the Long Island Business Institute. I never thought that, after so many years out of school, I would do well in college. I had to make a few drastic changes to manage school, but I was determined to succeed regardless of what I had to endure. I left my full time job to dedicate myself to my education. Little did I know that I would have the opportunity to work parttime as an Administrative Assistant at the Long Island Business Institute. I’m in my fourth and last semester, and it has been an exciting and challenging experience for me. It hasn’t been easy for me but I proved it was possible. I’m very proud of myself and how far I have come and I am very eager to continue my education. “I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME.” (Philippians 4:13)
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we CARE
THE MONUMENT QUILT | Written by Adriana Arguelles
The Monument Quilt is a national healing project for and by survivors of rape and sexual violence. This important project was born in May of 2013. It quickly grew, and in August of 2013, had already visited 13 cities, with workshops throughout the country. The quilts are made from 4 x 4 red fabric squares with written, painted, or stitched patterns or images, each telling a different story about this scourge on our society. The National Coalition against Domestic Violence (NCADV) statistics report that “1 in 5 women and 1 in 7 men have been severely physically abused by an intimate partner” and “an average of 20 people are physically abused by intimate partners every minute.” In August 2015, LIBI participated in this wonderful project which assists with the healing process of those members in our community affected by this ongoing crisis. In 2015, on October 14th and 15th at the NYC campus, and on November 12th and 17th at the Flushing Campus, students, administrators and faculty members, in collaboration with VIP (Violence Intervention Program), made the first quilts. The event was in memory of a LIBI NYC student, Rosetta Ewell, who tragically died at the age of 30 on July 24th, 2015. Our Monument Quilt project sessions were very touching, and they were well received by all the students, including friends of Rosetta, and by faculty and staff. This space is important for those who are afraid to speak and who cannot express their suffering, or those who have done so but are still healing. At the end of the sessions, they understood that they are not alone, and that they can move on. The quilts were displayed in a common area at the LIBI NYC Extension Center and in the Student Lounge in the Annex Building on the Flushing campus. Then, on April 27th, 2016, the quilts were displayed in Corona Plaza, and afterwards sent to Baltimore. They are now part of a national Monument Quilt Crusade, and in 2017 they will be exhibited in Washington, D.C. We want to express our gratitude to Lorena Kourousias for introducing LIBI to this project and to all VIP members for their support during our follow-up activities. For additional information about this important project, please visit The Monument Quilt. Org website (https:// themonumentquilt.org/view-the-quilt/) Please consider extending your support as well!
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LIBI ' S FUTURE COURT REPORTERS
we strive
| Written by Michelle Houston
Dedicated, hard-working, focused, and determined -- these are the words that our graduates have lived by during the past few years, and that have helped them evolve from students in the court reporting program to successful graduates working in the field of court reporting. Attaining a writing speed of 225 words per minute in testimony dictation that often contains unfamiliar terminology, foreign names, and lots of numbers on that small 26-key steno machine is no easy task. Consider also that all tests have a passing grade of 95% or better, and you will agree that Court Reporting is a difficult program. However, the students at LIBI’s Commack campus have accepted the challenge, and having completed the requirements of the Court Reporting Program, they can be heard down the hall shouting, “Yes, I survived 225.” The ultimate goal of the Court Reporting Program is to turn students into professional, desirable job candidates. LIBI has provided the knowledge, skills, and insight needed for success in today’s world of reporting. If anyone were to ask the court-reporting graduates what it takes to complete the program, the answer would be perseverance, taking one day at a time, and knowing that, at the end of the road, awaits a challenging and lucrative career with excellent job growth opportunities. Where can you find our graduates working? Many are working for court-reporting agencies at depositions, arbitrations, meetings, et cetera. With innovations in technology, employment opportunities in the field of court reporting have expanded. You can now find our graduates working with deaf and hard-ofhearing students in colleges such as Columbia and Hofstra Universities doing Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART). Many
others have successfully passed the state examination and are official reporters working for the Unified Court System in courthouses in various counties throughout the state. One of LIBI’s graduates, who works at the Suffolk County Legislature, had the honor of reporting the proceedings on the issue of banning the controversial chemical, BPA, from baby bottles and toddler sipping cups. Following months and months of meetings with county legislators, consumer advocates, and the Consumer Union (which feuded with the US Food and Drug Administration over its refusal to enact a nationwide ban on BPA), Suffolk County became the first county in the country to ban BPA. What a rewarding experience to be in the forefront reporting on legislation that will save infants from exposure to BPA, a chemical implicated in childhood developmental problems. Recently, we received a post card from a graduate excited to be in Dubai on her first international court reporting assignment at an arbitration hearing. Ebony is based in the United States but will be traveling abroad for various assignments for a freelance agency. Continuing education is also very important to our graduates. Many have become agency owners and realize the importance of being skilled in the areas of business management and accounting. As agency owners, they are keenly aware that it is extremely important to stay current in technology so as to ensure that their employees are also current with changes in the field. It is rewarding for our graduates, as well as for the faculty and staff at Commack, to know that they have been provided with the knowledge and skills needed out there in the “World of Court Reporting.”
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we strive
| Written by Tishely Ortiz
ALPHA BETA KAPPA NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
2015 INDUCTION CEREMONY Alpha Beta Kappa Honor Society recognizes students who have worked hard to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.75. Students inducted into the society have accumulated a minimum of 30 credits toward a degree, and maintained all grades of B or better. To honor our inductees, LIBI’s 2015 Induction ceremony was held on Thursday, May 28th, 2015. The room was filled with supportive friends and families, along with LIBI staff and faculty. Recognizing the inductees were President Foote, Provost Johnson, and our guest speaker Jeff Silverstein, a small business owner. Everyone provided words of encouragement and motivation to help propel our students forward on their academic and professional journeys. The ABK 2015 ceremony inducted 29 LIBI members who can carry their honors to a 4-year institution. After receiving their certificates, and posing for pictures like celebrities, inductees were treated to a variety of
finger foods, snacks, cake, and beverages to celebrate their accomplishments with those who matter most. This year’s high number of newly enrolled members only serves to prove that LIBI graduates, as well as current enrollees, are capable of going above and beyond in their classes and assignments. LIBI students are dedicated, focused, and when pushed to the test, can overcome any obstacle in their way. As in all aspects of life, there are times when it gets tough, when you feel like “throwing in the towel” because it seems too difficult to move forward. ABK members understand that these are the times to persevere and prove everyone wrong by working harder for what you deserve. We wish all of our ABK members success in their endeavors. However, with or without our best wishes, LIBI’s ABK members will continue to thrive.
| Written by Je’Nyce Gilmore
ORDER OF THE SWORD & SHIELD NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
2015 INDUCTION CEREMONY On June 18th, 2015 our much distinguished students in the Homeland Security and Security Management major were inducted into the National Honor Society of the Sword and Shield. On this day we recognized Afsana Afrose, Annesha Ali, Golam Bhuiyan, Jason Chyu, Katarzyna Czerski , Sean Edwards, Peng Li, Marcos Montenegro, and Joel Nunez. These students have shown remarkable academic effort and campus involvement. The Order of the Sword and Shield is the first and only academic and professional honor society dedicated exclusively to homeland security, intelligence, emergency management, and all protective security disciplines. The mission of the Society is to promote critical thinking, high scholarship and professional development; to further enhance the ethical standards of the protective security professions; and to cultivate a high order of personal living. In addition to its academic purpose, the Society is strongly committed to helping communities prepare for safety and emergency conditions, and sponsors many types of informational events throughout the year. While these
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students are completing their education here at LIBI, they uphold the core values of the society, which are excellence, knowledge, ethics, and peace. Here at LIBI, we hold all our students to these standards and give them the opportunity to shine while supporting the mission of the National Honor Society of the Sword and Shield.
we discover DORNEY PARK | Written by Lauren Moxom
Our trip to Dorney Park was my first LIBI field trip. It was an amazing time! The school’s package deal included transportation, the entrance fee, and food. This made it convenient for both staff and students. The Dorney Park staff was very welcoming; lines were short, and the food delicious. The rides were so much fun! Although it was rather cold for the water rides, we still took the plunge and got wet! It was especially nice to see students and staff bring their children turning the event truly into a family affair. It was inspiring to see so many students participate. It was an opportunity for me to bond with my co-workers as well as the students. I am truly looking forward to more class trips!
A HOSPITALITY EXCURSION | Written by Deborah Lewis
On Friday July 8th a group of students from the Hospitality Management department went to Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut as part of their Casino Ancillary Operations class. Everyone met on 8th Avenue in Brooklyn to board the bus to the casino which was a great deal at $15.00 each including a $20.00 meal credit plus $40.00 of gaming credits. Upon arrival we met our tour guide Bill Doheny who is employed by the casino in the Human Resources department. Bill is a native member of the Mohegan Tribe and has worked at the casino since it opened in 1996. As we toured the casino, Bill provided many interesting facts about the design of the casino, such as the carpeting being different in each part of the casino, and how, just by looking down, you know where you are because of the casino’s division into the four seasons. He took us to the convention space where we saw the meeting rooms, kitchens and the back of the house where all the employees work. The back of the house is a full mile of walking from
one end to the other. Most impressive were the enormous kitchens and dishwashing areas, each the size of a full floor at LIBI in NYC!!! After the tour we were starving, so we went to the buffet which cost $19.75, using up our entire meal credit from the bus company. The food was awesome: raw clams and oysters on the half shell, mussels marinara, prime ribs, turkey, soups, salads, Chinese food, Southern food, Mexican food, Japanese food and a huge assortment of desserts. Even little Miao Ling
Zheng ate 3 huge plates of food!!! After stuffing ourselves, we were off to try our luck in the casino where most of us did not win. Still, it was great to see everything we had learned about in class. Luckily we didn’t have a lot of time in the casino (since winning is not easy) as we had to catch our bus back to Brooklyn. We will always remember the excitement and the beauty of the Mohegan Sun Casino on that fun summer day out of the city.
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we discover | Written by Julia Scalia
OFFICE TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS ENJOY FIELD TRIP TO SONY Students in COM100 and COM200 from the Office Technology program, with instructors Ms. Scalia and Ms. Buncom, enjoyed their annual field trip to The Sony Wonder Technology Lab, 56th Street and Madison Avenue, NY on Friday, November 6, 2015. The 3-floor tour was beyond imagination. One could not have been more impressed by the brilliance of digital technology that was on display everywhere. This expedition offered our students a unique experience and opportunity to explore and learn outside the classroom. Some of the Permanent Exhibits at SWTC included a technology Time Line, audio technology and its use in a variety of careers, a medical imaging lab that uses technology to experiment with ultrasound in 3D, a painted picture in the Picture Lab, an animated avatar image of oneself, a taped news broadcast enabling you to see yourself on ‘live’ TV, and the next wave of interactive video games. Coupled with a great-weather day in November, the field trip to SWTL proved to be a valuable resource for our students’ continued quest to learn about the new and exciting advances in technology. Students received a Certificate of Attendance.
FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF NY VISITED LIBI | Written by Luis Alvarado
On February 24, 2016 the New York Fed staff visited our school to offer valuable information in a presentation on such topics as the role of the Federal Reserve, its history and monetary policy. It presented our students with the opportunity to meet New York Fed staff in their classrooms. This session developed students’ analytical and critical thinking as New York Fed employees encouraged active dialogues. Fed staff demonstrated the connection between money, the economy and the Federal Reserve by looking at how the Fed affects people’s everyday lives, as well as at the details of the structure of the Federal Reserve as a central bank, and its policy responsibilities. Topics covered:
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What is money? Money and the economy What is a central bank? How the Federal Reserve supports the economy How the Federal Reserve’s actions affect you What is the Federal Reserve System? What is the structure of the Federal Reserve System? What is the Federal Reserve’s role in the economy?
we BUILD | Written by Ronald Murray
VOLUNTEERING – VITA PROGRAM Long Island Business Institute (LIBI) opened VITA offices at both the Manhattan and Flushing campuses for the 2015 tax season. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA), sponsored by the IRS, is designed to provide free tax preparation for low and moderate-income taxpayers. VITA was originally founded in 1971 by Gary Iskowitz at California State University Northridge and “grew from a small group of dedicated accounting students to what is now, a nationwide program serving millions of taxpayers”. Dianne Orderson and Nadia Veliz-Mugan are the Site Coordinators at the Manhattan campus and Oster Bryon is the Site Coordinator in Flushing. Our student volunteers for the 2015 tax season were Bin Lin, Ziming Feng, Mei Lian Zhang, Feng Chen, Bao Na Wu and Pei Ji Chen. Students and instructors involved in the VITA program were required to complete detailed training and to pass an IRS test(s), with a score of 80% or higher before being IRS-certified to prepare taxes. The Site Coordinator’s job is to coordinate, organize, and supervise all aspects of the VITA site operation. The Site Coordinator is also responsible for gathering, maintaining and compiling timely statistical reports as required by the partners. Special IRS Site Coordinator training is provided to the coordinators by IRS-SPEC representatives. This course covers all the site requirements and administrative aspects necessary to effectively operate a VITA site. Student tax preparers must be certified at the basic level, at the least. It they choose, they may move on to the intermediate and advanced levels, but first must pass exams at each level. If, for example, a student wants to prepare a taxpayer’s return with itemized deductions, the student needs to be certified at
the intermediate level. At both locations, we had several students who opted to do this. Other positions open to student volunteers include:
• Quality Reviewer – reviews prepared tax returns for accuracy
• Transmitter and Electronic Return Originator – transmits returns electronically
• Interpreter – aids VITA clients • Greeter – welcomes tax filers to the VITA sites.
Students who took on the job of being an Interpreter or Greeter did not have to be tested; however, they were required to take the IRS Volunteer Standards of Conduct (VSOC) course and the Intake/Interview & Quality Review Test. These tests are required for all tax preparers, Quality Reviewers, Instructors, and Site Coordinators.
W-2s and 1099 forms from all employers, all 1095 forms, health insurance statements, a copy of last year’s federal and state returns, and a voided check for direct deposit of refund. The income of individuals who qualify for free Federal and N.Y. State tax preparation under the VITA program for the 2015 tax season was limited to $54,000 or less. VITA services were also available to the disabled and elderly under the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). Every year, beginning in December and continuing until mid-January, volunteers receive training to become IRS-certified. This year we are hoping more students will join the VITA team. It is an opportunity to receive valuable experience as tax preparers for both students and faculty. If you are interested in joining the LIBI VITA team for the 2016 tax season, contact Ms. Orderson, Ms. Veliz, Mr. Jimenez or Mr. Murray.
Before visiting a LIBI VITA site, you should have proof of identification (photo identification), a Social Security card or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) for yourself, your spouse and dependents (plus proof of foreign status, if applying with an ITIN), all
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we build
TEAM LIBI JOINS THE FRIENDS OF ROCKAWAY | Written by Tishely Ortiz
On the morning of May 14th, 2016, a group of determined LIBI students and I met up at the Howard Beach station at 8:30 a.m. We were to report to the Polizzi home at 9 a.m. We weren’t sure what to expect. To our pleasant surprise, we were greeted by a Friends of Rockaway staff at the home of an elderly couple whose basement had been ruined by flooding due to Hurricane Sandy. The staff had gotten started a week earlier, and our job was to help them with painting and finishing touches. After a brief, slightly awkward, ice-breaker game, we headed inside to tackle
our project. After we were guided as to how to properly apply the paint to the walls, we grabbed the buckets and brushes and got to work. It was a long day, but by the end of it, we had completed the paint job with two coats of paint and even had a chance to bond over lunch. Friends of Rockaway is a nonprofit organization that was founded to respond to the devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy on the Rockaway Peninsula. Now affiliated with the St. Bernard Project, it helps to rebuild homes for Sandy victims who cannot afford to do so
on their own. Because LIBI cares about our community, we wanted to help those in need. Participants included: Andrea Aguayo, Erica Jaquez, Xuepang Peng, Miao Lin Zheng, Jinghui Li, Xiao Ting Jiang, Su Bing Chen, Min Fang Liang, Guang Ming He, Xuefang Chen, Karina Baerga, and Coata Dacueil The Polizzi family was warm and welcoming, and quite moved by the large turnout of volunteers. Our group showed their school spirit, and showed the community that LIBI Cares.
HANDS-ON THE LIBI STUDENT STORE | Written by L. K. Buncom
All things start out as tiny seeds that with hard work and nurturing grow to greatness. That is the story of The LIBI Student Store. This “seedling” came into being because our community was tired of going off campus to get overpriced snacks and supplies. The Retention Committee members, faculty, staff, and students met to plan and gather supplies for the store. President Foote, Provost Johnson, and the LIBI administration supplied the store with display cases, a cash register, and a startup inventory, along with encouragement and abundant support. Mr. Murray organized the store’s customer-friendly physical layout and eye-catching display. Mr. Murray also enlisted the aid of Mimi Qian, the facility manager, and her staff in the construction of display and storage shelves for the store. Ms. Orderson relies on her accounting background and extensive QuickBooks knowledge to maintain the store’s financial records. Ms. Scalia donated LIBI book bags, supplies, and, with her strong sense of community, continuously rallied students, staff, and faculty to patronize the store. On a weekly basis, Ms. Buncom orders the store’s supplies, surveys community members for items they would like the store to carry, and brings everything together by coordinating with participating parties on the operation
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of the store. Dean Venturino, Ms. Garcia, and Ms. Antonyan, along with faculty and staff, have donated supplies to build the store’s inventory. Mr. Murray, Ms. Scalia, Ms. Orderson, Ms. Buncom, and Ms. Wasilewska run the store with the help of student volunteers. Faculty and Admissions give attending and prospective students a tour of the store in Room 307A and encourage them to patronize it. The store’s student volunteers gain valuable work experience while utilizing skills acquired from their studies. In addition, they receive three Adult Education Units (AEU) for working five hours per week for a full semester. Cassandra Rivers, Rosario Castro, and Jennifer Valdivierzo are the store’s first student volunteers. They work the store around their courses, jobs, and personal schedules. These three dynamic full-time students embody the LIBI spirit by selflessly giving of themselves. Interested students, staff, and faculty can sign up to work at the store by contacting Linda Buncom, Ronald Murray, Diane Orderson, or Julia Scalia. The store provides com-
munity members with fresh coffee to start the day, and a quick snack to tide them over until dinner, as well as school supplies. Our motto, written by Miguel Negron, Admissions Representative at LIBI—“Because you don’t want to go outside!”—shouts what the store is all about. All proceeds from purchases are applied to school events. But more importantly, on a daily basis, the store provides a place for community members to share information, a kind word, and a smile. With continued support from the LIBI community, the seed planted on June 6, 2016, now a thriving seedling, will grow into a great, mighty oak for semesters to come.
| Written by Ronald Murray
we support
WE ARE LIBI AND WE COMMIT TO HELPING OUR STUDENTS On January 14 & 15, 2015, LIBI held its first I Commit to Complete (C2C) events at the Manhattan and Flushing campuses. The entire college community came together to show support and encouragement as students pledged to complete their college education and obtain their degrees. Many students signed I Commit to Complete contracts and, along with their instructors, the College President, Provost, Librarian, Advisors, Registrar, Bursar and others, signed a “Mass Card” to show solidarity and support. The commit-to-complete campaign was initiated in response to President Obama’s educational agenda which envisions a significant increase in the number of students who will graduate by the year 2020. Many colleges have adopted this campaign, and it has proven successful in that many colleges have reported an improved retention rate. Each year many students fail to complete their course of study. There are many reasons for this. Some students lack the support of family members, while others as parents of young children, find it difficult to manage both school and a family. Often, financial difficulties play a major role. Along with these factors, students face a combination of other issues which overwhelm and dishearten them. Yet knowing, along with their teachers, that they have the entire college community behind them, strongly enhances their feeling of belonging and often improves the likelihood that they will graduate. Like many other college students, LIBI’s students are often apprehensive about being able to handle the responsibilities of being a college student, along with caring for families and/or working fulltime jobs. For many, a new routine which encompasses the unfamiliar demands of college requires some getting used to. The message I Commit to Complete sends is that even though our students will experience periods of uncertainty and unexpected problems, we are here for them. All they need to do is ask, and we are ready and willing to assist. The motto we coined, “Asking Questions is a Real Sign of Strength (SOS), is the ultimate goal in providing students with answers to all their questions. When our students commit to complete, teachers, along with everyone else, are committed to do everything within their power to help them to succeed. When our students pledge to complete their college education and obtain their degrees, they know they have the support of the entire college community behind them. At LIBI, we believe in team work and in helping students give it that “ole college try.” We are LIBI and we are committed to helping our students.
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2016 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
| Written by Paul Schmick
On July 15, 2016, the Long Island Business Institute celebrated the commencement ceremony for the class of 2016, bringing together students, family and faculty from the three campuses of Commack, Flushing and New York City. A graduation class of 345 students and more than 100 college faculty and staff members and more than 500 other attendees assembled in the Colden Auditorium of Queens College on a stunning July evening to celebrate the LIBI commitment that “student success equals mission accomplished!” As the ceremony progressed, the first order of tradition was a pledge to the stars and stripes of the U.S. flag. As part of the American tradition, LIBI celebrates the diverse ethnicities and nationalities of its students, all of whom value the opportunity to pursue the American dream. Since its founding, LIBI has embraced diversity as a valuable cultural enhancement to the experience of faculty and the student body. Ultimately, society advances when diverse, educated students employ their skills in industry and return to their community upon graduation. Keynote speakers, as models of success, offered words of advice and inspiration as only leaders can. New York State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky and New York State Assembly Member Jose Peralta passionately spoke of the success of LIBI students referring to their own challenges in the pursuit of education. Both prestigious speakers underscored the struggles on the road to success and the need of LIBI students to strive for even greater heights. A theme echoed throughout the commencement ceremony was that limits on one’s potential are self-imposed. The President of the Long Island Business Institute, Monica Foote, hailed the success of the graduates, reflected on their challenges and sacrifices, and noted their need to survive some false starts. Her passion was evident as she entrusted the graduates with the responsibility of entering the business world as participants, or even new leaders. President Foote’s message was one of hope, diversity and self-worth. LIBI Valedictorians and Salutatorians celebrated their achievements, and, in the tradition of LIBI honors, will represent the LIBI community with honor and pride.
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The graduates’ own words are testimony to the influence of LIBI on their potential and future:
“LIBI gave me a chance to build a better life.” – Michelle Wu
“Thanks to all of you! Because of you, my life will never be the same. Thank you for everything. God bless you!” – Jovenel Thimote
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Alison Sandoval
“If I had to do it all over, I would still choose LIBI.” – Joiceline Allen
“Be fearless in the pursuit of what set your soul on fire.” – Joel Nunez
“If you can imagine it, you can achieve it. If you can dream it, you can become it” – Trishana Rampersaud As the caps flew and celebrations continued outside the Colden Auditorium, LIBI students embark on their new journey with diploma in hand to serve and even lead industry -- for their futures are bright, and their mission has been accomplished, but their journeys have just begun. As LIBI students reflect on the days following their commencement, their success should tell them a bit about themselves. Commitment to a goal, regardless of obstacles, brings endless possibilities. Perseverance, dedication and commitment have loudly proclaimed to family, friends and the world -- we will not live in a world we dream of, but rather in a world we help create.
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we GROW FACULTY CONVOCATION 2016 | Written by Patrick Cottington
In January of 2016, LIBI NYC hosted the annual Faculty Convocation, an event designed not only to bring the LIBI faculty from all our campuses together to voice and exchange ideas, but also to participate in a variety of workshops hosted by expert speakers from around the country. The focus was primarily on topics to keep our faculty up-to-date in the volatile world of progressive education. The theme for the LIBI 2016 Convocation was “Education in the 21st Century.” Accomplished speakers, including teachers, authors and counselors from around the country, helped to complement our vision for the upcoming year. Although these workshops are designed to further develop the erudition of the LIBI faculty, the other important goal is the application in the classroom of the concepts and ideas presented. As part of this annual event, the faculty was invited to participate in a multitude of workshops, ranging from methodology to professional development to student safety. This year’s convocation presented some challenging and intriguing workshops, including:
• How to deal with an active shooter (presented by the NYPD) • Defining and maintaining academic integrity (Dr. James Lang) • Small group learning (Dr. James Lang) • Assessment techniques and rubrics (Dr. Kathleen Landy) • Drug and alcohol policy and enforcement (Dennis Andrews) • Writing across the curriculum (Shereen Inayatulla) While most of the workshops concentrated on academics, others dealt with real-world issues of concern in the current educational environment. The NYPD presentation on active shooters was a somber and revealing presentation, introducing the faculty to the behavior of an active shooter and the appropriate reaction, as well as what not to do. Many misconceptions and stereotypes were dispelled. The NYPD also introduced their SHIELD program designed to involve the community in the recognition and reporting of suspicious terrorist activity. Since LIBI regularly participates in a lockdown drill, it was a relevant presentation about how to deal with a dangerous situation in an academic environment. Providing case studies and possible scenarios, Mr. Dennis Andrews also touched on the problems of drug and alcohol abuse, discussing how to deal with both overt and covert cases of said abuses in an academic setting along with the best approach to coping with addicts. The primary speaker of the event was Dr. James Lang from Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts. Dr. Lang is a Fulbright Scholar
and renowned authority on academic integrity and cognitive learning, as well as the author of Cheating Lessons: Learning from Academic Dishonesty, a study of how and why students in today’s academia regularly cheat. His most recent book, Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning, introduces cognitive theory for facilitation of learning. Dr. Lang offered new insight into the concepts of academic integrity and small group learning. The speakers were an effective, impressive and enlightening part of this year’s convocation, presenting viewpoints that are useful in the classroom for the benefit of our students. To that end, all faculty members look forward to the convocation of 2017 for new ideas, new challenges and an opportunity for LIBI teachers to be students for a day.
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LIBI ARTICULATIONS | Written by Anna Venturino
Long Island Business Institute is dedicated to creating transfer pathways for our students upon graduation. This year LIBI effected three new articulation agreements: SUNY Farmingdale, University of Hartford, and SUNY Oswego. SUNY Farmingdale, an hour away from New York City, now accepts our Homeland Security and Security Management students. The University of Hartford in Connecticut will accept our Business Management graduates as will SUNY Oswego in upstate New York. Henceforth our graduates will now be able to transfer into the above institutions. Long Island Business Institute will continue to work on obtaining more transfer pathways for their graduates in the future.
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LIBI NYC FALL COLLEGE FAIR
we LEAD | Written by Greg Batson
Once again, LIBI NYC Extension Center’s Career Services Department is proud to announce that its Fall College Transfer Fair was a success. Held on Wednesday September 2nd, 2015, with a tally of approximately forty-five students, this remarkable event presented a promotional component, and an opportunity for our students to engage with representatives from ten of the thirteen four-year institutions who share articulation agreements with LIBI. Students were able to gather and decipher, with ease, information concerning applicable majors, transcript evaluations, credit transfers, available student activities, and a host of other ancillary services. Moreover, the knowledge acquired through the dialogue between the college representatives and our students was priceless, especially in terms of the interpretation and understanding of protocols. Representatives were transparent, patient, and informative in discussing their individual institution’s baccalaureate programs along with criteria for transferability. Consequently, this office will continue to impress upon our potential graduates the rewards of continuing on to higher education.
SPRING 2015 JOB FAIR | Written by Tishely Ortiz
Long Island Business Institute holds two job fairs every year. They are open to all majors because a variety of companies are interested in you! LIBI’s Spring-2015 Job Fair was held on Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 from 11am-3pm, and included over 25 companies representing the finance, customer service, retail, insurance, security, and hospitality industries. Positions included office assistants, bookkeepers, sales associates, security guards, and various internships. Students who registered to attend came prepared, dressed in their interview best. Resumes were reviewed and approved by a Career Services Advisor, and “elevator pitches” were days ahead of the event. Students who registered have a greater chance of being considered for employment with this opportunity to make a strong first impression. During our registration meetings, Career Services Advisors revise resumes, correcting errors, and suggesting key points to catch a potential employer’s eye. Advisors review
common interview questions and discuss techniques that build rapport and create relationships to help students expand their network. Students who have been advised before the job fairs have clearly constructed goals and are ready to achieve them. These same students have an air of confidence lacking in students who attend without prior advisement. Preparation is necessary to maneuver the job fair successfully. And those students who take this prep time seriously are encouraged to become relentless in their efforts.
The next big job fair is scheduled for November 18, 2015. LIBI is working to make this fair the biggest one yet, and we are confident that our students will be completely prepared for the opportunities offered this time around.
In addition to individual advisement, a CSU workshop was hosted for the general LIBI population to present insight into the appropriate behavior of a job seeker at recruitment events. The workshop is a general overview of how to prepare and dress, as well as how to interact with employers. However, the workshops are not individualized, and therefore a student’s specific concerns about his/her experience, education, work gaps, etc. are not addressed. Current students and graduates should make appointments for their specific concerns.
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LIBI NYC'S GHOULISHLY DELIGHTFUL EVENT | Written by Ronald Murray
On October 27, 2016, LIBI NYC held its 3rd annual Halloween Party. The Academic Success Center was transformed into a house of horrors, the walls covered with pictures of spooky-looking houses sporting bats and scary witches flying around on brooms. There was a spider web that covered the entire ceiling with all manner of creepy crawlers hanging down, such as bats, witches, ghouls and ghosts. Party strings were sprayed on tables and chairs, giving the room the look and feel of having been dusty and dirty for many years. It was a sight to behold.
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This year additional treats were added to the festivities. The committee replaced the green and red stationary lighting from the past two events with a star-shower flashing-light device. When the colorful flashing lights hit them, the objects hanging down from the walls appeared to be actually moving. The computers featured the music video of Michael Jackson’s Thriller. This raised the atmosphere to a spook-tacular level of merriment, and had everyone rocking to the music. Thanks go out to the Retention Committee for a ghoulishly delightful event. Their
fang-tastic and spirited efforts made this possible. Linda Buncom, Dianne Orderson, Julia Scalia and Ronald Murray were largely responsible for the success of this incredible event. Over 400 bags of treats were handed out to students, faculty and staff members, including trick-or-treat bowls of chocolate eyeballs and some bouncy stuff that may or may not have been fit to eat. Only those who tried to eat it know for sure! It was a boo-tiful event!
LIBI IS A GREAT PLACE TO STUDY AND LEARN
we motivate
| Written by Xiaoqing Chen
I am very excited to have this opportunity to write an article for our LIBI Log. Because, I really want to share my thankful feelings about our school with all my fellow students. How time flies! It is more than one year since I graduated from LIBI. I miss the friendly faculty and staff at LIBI, and at the same time, I find they have not forgotten us either. Some of them have kept in touch with graduates about their careers. For example, the Career Services Advisors not only guided and helped us to find our ideal jobs, but then monitored our career progress. They also provided guidance for a life-long learning foundation, enabling us to pursue the American dream. For example, they would recommend another job if you lost or disliked the first job. Furthermore, they never charged a placement fee. I will always cherish my time at LIBI. Different scenes, just like from the movies, often enter and linger in my mind. Lessons were always interactive and very helpful, interesting, and effective, and were efficiently taught by friendly, kind, patient, reliable and wise professors. For example, the teachers let us use funny pictures to introduce ourselves. We used professional and non-professional sayings. We also used PowerPoint as a visual aid in oral representations. They trained us very well in practical skills for handling real work and figuring out real on-the-job problems. Our faculty and staff are praiseworthy for their hard work! It is a pity that there are many more exciting and inspiring things I have still not written about due to my limited writing skills. I was very lucky to be able to study at LIBI, and I will treasure the memory forever. So I must tell everybody that “LIBI is a great place to study and learn.�
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we have talent
ever
ything
you c an imagi ne is real. - Pabl o Pica sso
LIBI ' S 5TH ANNUAL ART SHOW EXHIBITION
| Written by Adriana Arguelles
Art allows us to express our souls in various ways that may have once seemed unimaginable. When we create, our mind, body, and soul are one. Art transforms all that is invisible and intangible into reality. Our souls speak -and their voices live forever. At LIBI’s 5th Annual Art Show Exhibition, our artists transformed their imagination into reality! One hundred fifty-eight works of art were submitted in four categories: Visual Arts, Crafts, Photography, and Poetry. The Exhibition took place on the Flushing campus from September 14th to 16th. The inaugural ceremony included live performances by the musicians David Salazar (violinist) and Francisco Salazar (cellist). David Salazar has played violin with numerous ensembles throughout his musical career. He has performed with the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, and as a soloist in the Kamermusik Chamber Orchestra. He has had the privilege of performing at Carnegie Hall, David Geffen Hall, Alice Tully Hall and Tilles center. His musical career has also led him to work as violinist with a new theater company called Shades of Grey, and to perform the New York premieres of “Peace/Piece of Mind” and “Sterntaler.” Francisco Salazar has also worked with numerous orchestras and ensembles throughout his career. He studied cello under George Ginovker, former principal cellist of the Leningrad Philharmonic, as well as with Peter Tarsoly and Susan Lehr. His accomplishments include winning the Concerto Competition at the C.W. Post Chamber Music Program at Tilles Center where he played the Saint Saens cello concerto. He is also a winner of the Tilles Scholar Award, and he performed as a soloist with the Kammermusik Chamber Orchestra. He has performed in Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall and David Geffen Hall. Francisco was
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principal cellist of the Hofstra Symphony Orchestra and a member of the Hardwick Trio. He currently plays with the North Shore Symphony Orchestra. The art works submitted were full of color and emotion. They told stories of nature and beautiful places that had inspired our participants. Some were handmade, others photographed, and still others written. The various words, colors, light, lines, angles and textures demonstrated how our skilled and creative participants express themselves outside of LIBI. Students, faculty and administrators had the opportunity to see, feel and enjoy these wonderful pieces of art and music. They also had the opportunity to select the winners in the categories of Visual Arts, Crafts and Photography. Jurors Frank Leone and Joan Walker, professors of the LIBI English Department, selected the poetry category winner. Each artist received a Certificate of Appreciation and the
winners received a $100 visa card. The 5th annual Art Show Exhibition winners by category were: Visual Arts : Hong Le We – The Door Photography : Xue Hua Zheng Crafts : Nadira Kabeer – Hamal Poetry : Rocio Castro – “Being Away from Home” Thank you to Mika Lee, Ronald Murray, Jhonatan Aybar, Lin Feng Hu, Trishana Ampersand, Bao Yi Cai, and members of the Cultural Committee for their hard work and commitment. Special thanks to President Foote for her support and guidance in making this show possible. Thanks to all members of the LIBI community for your support and enthusiasm!
LIBRARY CORNER A BOOK REVIEW: THE OUTLANDER SERIES By Ronald Murray
These books are one incredible read after another, and will keep you riveted to your seat! The first of nine books, appropriately named Outlander, starts in the 1940s right after World War II when you first meet Frank and Claire Randall on vacation in Scotland. One day Claire and Frank visit a place called Craigh na Dun where Claire stumbles upon some strange stones. Before she realizes it, she is falling through the stones until she finds herself in 18th century Scotland. Here she meets the love of her life, Jamie Frasier, although she is already married to Frank Randall. Among the characters are family members, as well as friends and neighbors. The series is a mesmerizing page-turner, always drawing you into the story as if you were actually a part of it. You will find you have finished one book and are on to the next in no time. The books are so well-written and convincing that you never wonder how a 20th century woman manages so well in the 18th century. The writing is that convincing. The books describe the ups and downs, from near- death experiences to the horrors of war during a period when swords were the weapon of choice. Claire finds herself in an historical period she had once only read about as a child. It is all served up in the most amazing and imaginary storytelling. It is easy to visualize through every page. This wonderful storyteller captivates us with Claire’s narrative of a time when much of what is commonplace to us in modern times is lacking in the 18th century. Her distinctive use of language ranges from phrases like “the reek of the unbelievable stench” in the description of how the odor of food, mingled with unwashed bodies, is exacerbated by the close quarters of shacks and cabins.
bathed for months, or whose breath is punctuated by the stench of rotting teeth, as well as the less-than-antiseptic conditions that characterized surgery at the time. Even more revolting, however, are the dried-blood-encrusted surgeon’s knives. Claire expounds on how operations are performed without anesthesia, and how some are able to withstand a great deal of pain whereas others cannot and simply lose consciousness. This, along with the fear of being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time and the general danger of living off the land, are told in a most captivating manner. Note also that Claire is a former nurse who had just returned home from World War II. Her skills acquired in that capacity would normally be a blessing, but in 18th century Scotland rather served as the basis for accusations of witchcraft. This nearly costs her her life, but rest assured that James Frasier whom she meets, marries and falls madly in love with, turns out to be her savior (and she, his). The seamless succession of words is remarkable, and the story, therefore, flows smoothly. It seizes your attention so that you only come up for air when you realize, surprisingly, that you have reached yet the end of another chapter so quickly. The only disappointment is that the book must eventually end. Each book is over 1,000 pages long, but, believe it or not, everyone to whom I recommended the first book Outlander went on, as I did, to finish them all, and pass the enjoyment on most enthusiastically to others! The books are captivating. I have to warn you, they must be read in specific order for the full effect.
Claire describes explicitly encounters with someone who hasn’t
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SAFETY CORNER THE NEW YORK CITY FAMILY JUSTICE CENTER VISITS LIBI By Ronald Murray
Throughout the month of September 2015, LIBI had the honor of having members from the NYC Family Justice Centers, a division of the Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence, hold workshops and give lectures at both the Manhattan and Flushing campuses. Students, faculty and staff met with Hannah Pennington, Director of Policy; Elizabeth Falcon, the Director of Youth Program; Sarah Flatto, Director of Program & Outreach, and several other members. They delivered speeches on dating violence and unhealthy relationships, noting the warning signs of an abusive relationship, and explaining why some people stay in such a relationship. They discussed “bystander intervention”, as well as stalking, including how the latter is now also occurring on the internet (cyber stalking). The issue of domestic violence is something, apparently, that many attendees of the workshops have experienced or witnessed, and some were willing to share personal experiences. Their stories were powerful, not only for their candor, but for the courage and strength it required to discuss publicly how they had managed and overcome their crises. When the topic of an order of protection arose, members of the Justice Center gave excellent advice. They stated that it should not be kept a secret, but rather be told to friends, neighbors, and even the person you know at the grocery store. If in school, you should give the school a copy of the order because the more people who know, the better your chances are of being safe. We learned that women aren’t the only ones abused; men are also victims of domestic violence. Unfortunately, all too often, men fail to report the abuse. The reason is often based on the notion that men are the stronger sex. A book, available in the LIBI NYC library, When Women Sexually Abuse Men, describes how a 41-year old man was raped and tortured by two women. The book describes how it almost remained undetected, if not for a rookie cop. It also explains how something like this makes some men feel “emasculated”, causing them to suffer in silence rather than be publicly shamed. The message, loud and clear at these workshops, is that a victim should not feel embarrassed. This was particularly apparent in the individuals
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who were willing to share their stories. Regrettably, there are still many who conceal their suffering. This is why getting the word out that help is available is very important. Knowing that they’re not alone encourages many still hesitant about seeking help to do so. The NYC Family Justice Centers are located in all five boroughs and provide a number of services, including legal as well as social services. Victims of abuse and their families can speak with trained counselors and apply for housing and financial assistance. The agencies have connections with other agencies and have members on staff at each location who can speak several different languages. The number to the NYC Family Justice Center is 1-800- HOPE. Ms. Pennington and the other members from the NYC Family Justice Centers were invited back to be part of LIBI’s open house which took place on September 28, 2015, and later this year when they will attend another of LIBI’s events. Plans are in the works for LIBI and the Family Justice Center to continue working together for the education of the college community towards a better understanding of Title IX, VAWA, the Clery Act and Enough is Enough, and on how to look for warning signs.
A BOOK REVIEW: WHEN WOMEN SEXUALLY ABUSE MEN By Ronald Murray
The book, When Women Sexually Abuse Men, the Hidden Side of Rape, Stalking, Harassment and Sexual Assault, is unusual to say the least. The idea that a man could be raped by a woman may seem to many like a joke. More to the point, even if it were an actual news event, it would still give rise to off-color jokes, ending with someone inevitably saying “How lucky for the guy”. However, the opening story that describes the treatment of a male survivor by two women he lived with would elicit just the opposite. Not to go into too much detail, I will just state that he suffered through sexual torture and inhumane treatment which most definitely constituted the horrifying act of violence called rape. The book examines rape of men by women, while societal norms consider men to be the usual aggressors, and where laws tend to give women the advantage in the court room. Even though this book is a start in the right direction, it still gives the impression that there is a long road ahead, not only in a change of attitudes concerning the preconceived roles of men and women, but also in the laws concerning the concept of a man being raped by a woman. This book explores areas of the law that parallel the views of society with emphasis on how a women can possibly force a man to have sex with her, despite the widespread assumption that it is always the man who wants sex. More to the point, the book notes that the laws focus on a woman’s anatomy which negates her ability to force “penetration”, the definition of the physical act of rape. The book presents some very interesting tactics used by women concerning psychological or verbal coercion. One profoundly interesting but effective threat is to expose him publically as a “wimp” for refusing her sexual advances. The book points out that research typically shows that women are far more often victims of sexual assault, but that the numbers are not always accurate.
the book although this is an issue that should not be ignored. Cyber stalking, according to this book, has recently become more prevalent. The book also explains that terms have become more gender-neutral in reference to criminal sexual conduct. Still much more needs to be done to change the general perception and attitude. The book points out the more obvious biases and reluctance to believe allegations by male victims. Men are simply not believed, or their complaints are summarily dismissed. After all, if, indeed, he is a real man, why does he not just “sit back and enjoy it”. A segment in the book touches on the increased responsibility of colleges. The book makes some very interesting points about the lessening of restrictions on college living arrangements, the increased use of drugs and alcohol on campus, and the more casual interaction between men and women, but cautions against jumping to conclusions. In most cases, instead of examining the entire situation and the actions of all parties involved, it is commonly assumed that the man is at fault. However, colleges are now being held responsible for proper investigation of allegations against male students without prejudging, assigning blame, or acting on negative assumptions against the male student who often has little to no recourse. The book calls into question the matter of proper investigation and the questionable nature of traditional assumptions about male/female behavior, including, particularly, the notion that men are always the initiators and perpetrators. Read this book, and you may conclude that circumstances are not always what they seem.
Stalking, a particularly disturbing topic, is the discovery that someone is lurking in the shadows or re-emerging unexpectedly. The book divides stalkers into several different types: the rejected stalker, the intimacy seekers, incompetent stalker, resentful stalker and the predatory and unprovoked stalkers. It is interesting, if understandable, that men are more likely to be prosecuted as stalkers than females. The book does point out that men tend to be more violent than women towards their victims, but that women tend to threaten to harm family members, destroy property or harm themselves. This is clearly illustrated in the movie Fatal Attraction. The authors note that battered women sometimes stalk. Even more attention-grabbing is the description of “unwanted pursuit behavior “as “false stalking”. It is a normal reaction for a person to try to re-unite with a parting loved one by calling or writing. When this behavior qualifies as stalking is not debated in
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EDITORIAL CORNER EDUCATION AND CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY By Jhonatan Aybar
make important decisions without reliable, verifiable evidence. In fact, this is a problem in itself, regardless of the outcome of the most recent elections, for better or worse.
To discuss civic responsibility intelligently, we need first to fully understand the meaning of responsibility. It is the state of being accountable coupled with the opportunity or ability to act independently. It is imperative that all citizens exercise their civic responsibilities with an awareness of current issues and events, along with moral consciousness and ethical values. A society without responsible citizens cannot optimally overcome this millennium’s challenges such as globalization and diversity. Our emerging generations see themselves as global citizens. They are global, social, visual and technology-oriented. Although technology and globalization have improved communication, public and social media do not always present precise and accurate information. Civic responsibility entails different aspects of exemplary citizenship such as – financial responsibility, community service, social activism, productive work, advocacy for democratic governance and respect of human rights. These can only be achieved by increasing the well-educated citizen population. The report “A Well-Educated Workforce Is Key to State Prosperity” by Noah Berger and Peter Fisher (Economic Policy Institute, Aug 2013, http://www.epi.org/), makes the following observations:
• Overwhelmingly,
high-wage states are states with a well-educated workforce. There is a clear and strong correlation between the educational attainment of a state’s workforce and median wages in the state.
• States can build a strong foundation for economic success and shared prosperity by investing in education. Providing expanded access to high quality education will not only expand economic opportunity for residents, but also likely do more to strengthen the overall state economy than anything else a state government can do.
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• Cutting
taxes to capture private investment from other states is a race-to-thebottom state economic development strategy that undermines the ability to invest in education.
• States
can increase the strength of their economies and their ability to grow and attract high-wage employers by investing in education and increasing the number of well-educated workers.
• Investing in education is also good for state budgets in the long run, since workers with higher incomes contribute more through taxes over the course of their lifetimes. It is not surprising that social media have played a very important role in the past election for the presidency in the USA. Social media provide an efficient conduit for fast and boundary-free transmission of information. One of the major concerns with this very important 21st century tool is that, in many cases, the information disseminated in these channels may not be 100% accurate. This may mislead the masses into believing information that is baseless – leading them to
Nevertheless, a well-educated populace generally practices exemplary citizenship through social activism, advocacy for democratic governance and respect for human rights. And yet, in the past decade, we have seen extreme cuts in public education budgets across the country, despite the eventual effects that this will have in the economy, and in society in general. The government of this very blessed nation knows the formula very well: the more educated our citizens are, the more financially successful they become. Still it seemts that we have been walking backwards due to the decisions that the public administration and the legislative government have made regarding education in the past decade: including ATB (Ability-to-benefit) cuts, Pell Grant Year round, States cuts, etc. We must never forget the under-served population or fail to afford them second opportunities – these individuals will never become productive if we do not make an effort to serve them well and responsibly. Stewardship in public administration appears to be very limited, but this is not a topic easily discussed without taking into consideration many different factors. A well-educated population is better informed, makes better decisions, analyzes and challenges incoming information from all sources before making any conclusions, and, overall, is involved in the progress of the economy. They read about and investigate topics that concern them, and form their own conclusions based on the information that they have analyzed and on the challenges of other points of view.
POLITICALLY CORRECT OR SIMPLY POLITE? By Frank Leone
Many people use the term “politically correct” to deride the liberal notion that language has the power to demean and intimidate. But racial and ethnic slurs hurt. As no one enjoys being offended, so should no one intentionally offend others. Although the perceived offensive nature of some language is subject to cultural and historical context, as well as the general sensitivity of the targeted audience, ignorance is still never an excuse to disregard the feelings of others. For example, as an Italian American, I must often endure jokes about how people need to be “careful” around me. These are intended to be humorous references to the Mafia or Italian mob. Although Hollywood loved Italian gangsters, making them famous and glamorous, I do not see them that way. (The fact that many mob figures were not of Italian origin is a lost fact apparently, as is how these criminals also victimized many Italian Americans who were trying to run legitimate family businesses.) Although many people see such remarks as harmless, or even flattering, since they refer to a certain “toughness” of character, most Italian Americans are deeply offended by such ignorance. Our endless contributions to the world warrant more attention. Our artists far outnumber our “tough” guys, and I don’t mean scam artists. As for those concerned about freedom of speech, choosing to avoid certain words is hardly a hardship or a suppression of a right. Indeed we all have the right to be boors, but like your mother used to say: “Just because you can do it, doesn’t mean you should.” It is also simple enough to do. Once you learn a certain word or phrase is offensive, you should easily be able to find an acceptable alternative; English is hardly short on words. We also have the responsibility to be civil to our neighbors of all backgrounds and religions. Being considerate may be a burden to some, but most of us have little difficulty in learning polite language. It’s an ongoing process that started when we were quite young. I know of no one who suffered inordinately while learning common courtesy, whereas I know many who suffered as young victims of unkind ethnic epithets. Many people, such as children or victims of discrimination, are vulnerable to such words of unkindness. Let’s not cause others to suffer due to our ignorance, or laziness, or plain insensitivity. What is so difficult or distasteful about showing consideration for the feelings of others? It’s not about being correct, politically or otherwise. It’s about being respectful.
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LIBI LOG - Published on February 2017 Editor: Frank Leone Manager: Ronald Murray Graphic Designer: Mika Lee
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