black gold [+]
ANNUAL [2016] YEAR
IN REVIEW
A NEVADA STATE COLLEGE PUBLICATION
[inside]
NEVADA STATE SCORPIONS ‘THEY CHOSE NSC.’ MUCH LIKE OUR STUDENTS, THE LOCAL SCORPIONS CHOSE OUR CAMPUS
Nevada State AT A GLANCE
3,747 18
TOTAL STUDENT BODY
12% GROWTH FROM PREVIOUS YEAR
42
% EMPLOYEES OF COLOR*
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
MAJORS Allied Health Sciences* Biology
Concentration options in cell and molecular, ecology and evolution, and physiology
Business Administration Communications Criminal Justice Elementary Education
Concentration option in special education
Engineering Technology*
Concentration options in computer technology, electronics, and telecommunications
English
56%
OF STUDENTS RECEIVED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
School of Education
74
$20 MILLION
IN FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED BY NSC TO STUDENTS IN 2016
School of Nursing
216 130 2016 GRADUATES
Male 25%
FIRST GENERATION STUDENTS
Hispanics of Any Race
25 and up 55%
Law Enforcement
Mathematics
Concentration options in statistics and applied math, and mathematics education
Nursing Nursing (RN to BSN) Psychology Secondary Education
Speech Pathology Visual Media
Specialization options in animation and digital cinema production
MINORS Biology Business
Communications
1%
Counseling
12%
Criminal Justice
9% 28% 2%
Race and Ethnicity Unknown
6%
Two or more races
6%
Based upon fall 2016 enrollment. *Full-time employees.
Interdisciplinary Studies
Chemistry
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
White
AGE 17-24 45%
Female 75%
62%
Black or African American
2016 GRADUATES
GENDER
PART-TIME STUDENTS
Asian
Concentration option in pre-law
Concentration options in biology, English, history, mathematics, and physical sciences
61%
American Indian or Alaska Native
History
Management
School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
2016 GRADUATES
Environmental and Resource Science
36%
Deaf Studies
ETHNICITY
Educational Instruction Educational Technology English Entrepreneurship Environmental and Resource Science *Only available to CSN students.
Gender and Sexuality Studies History Law Enforcement Mathematics Professional Writing Promotion Psychology Social Justice Sociology Visual Media
BLACK & GOLD ANNUAL
Thank you for reading the Black & Gold Annual.
A Nevada State College Publication
Your feedback and story ideas are welcome!
nsc.edu
Please submit entries to:
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BLACK & GOLD ANNUAL EDITORIAL STAFF Managing Editor
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Yanné Givens Nevada State College
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Marketing & Communications Specialist Yanne.Givens@nsc.edu
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Editor Robyn Campbell-Ouchida
1300 Nevada State Drive
All Write Business Communications
Henderson, NV 89002
ouchida@cox.net
(702) 992-2000 Editor NEVADA STATE COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT
Ellen Guerra
At Nevada State College, excellence fosters opportunity.
Nevada State College
Excellence in teaching leads to innovative, technology-
Director of Marketing & Communications
rich learning opportunities that promote the acquisition of
Ellen.Guerra@nsc.edu
interdisciplinary knowledge and skills. Quality, affordable fouryear degree programs open the door to career success and
For information on donating to the college:
enhanced quality of life for a diverse population of students. Our graduates, in turn, foster the greatest opportunity – the promise
Dr. J. Russell Raker, III
of a stronger community and a better future for all of Nevada.
Nevada State College Associate Vice President, Institutional Advancement
NEVADA STATE COLLEGE LEADERSHIP
Russell.Raker@nsc.edu
Bart Patterson
(702) 992-2356
President Dr. Robin Cresiski Interim Provost and Executive Vice President
To share alumni updates or learn about the alumni association: Danielle Welch
Kevin Butler
Nevada State College
Vice President, Finance & Business Operations
Alumni Relations & Development Operations Manager Danielle.Welch@nsc.edu
Dr. Edith Fernández Associate Vice President, Community Engagement
Design and layout by Laura Malmgren
& Diversity Initiatives
Freelance Graphic Design Professional
Dr. J. Russell Raker, III Associate Vice President, Institutional Advancement
Smudge Pot Creative smudgepotcreative.com
Dr. Tony Scinta
Cover photo and additional photography by
Vice Provost of Academic Innovation & Student Success
Ian Probasco, NSC Videographer.
Dr. Dennis Potthoff Dean, Education Dr. Andy Kuniyuki Dean, Liberal Arts & Sciences Dr. Neal Rosenburg Dean, Nursing Dr. Richard Yao Dean of Students
Additional photos provided by NSC vendors, employees, and students. Many thanks to all who contributed to the 2016 Black & Gold Annual.
Letter from the PRESIDENT It has been a remarkable year of excitement and growth for Nevada State College, which is captured in our fourth edition of the Black & Gold Annual. This publication was developed especially for our close-knit Scorpion community stakeholders to celebrate and acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of the college. This past year, we settled into our two new buildings, grateful for the additional classrooms, labs, and community spaces. These new buildings have proved to be much more than just an addition of space. They have also provided new opportunities and ways to grow our family-like culture.
BART PATTERSON
Impromptu table tennis games occur in our Rogers Student Center between faculty and students, we now host nationally recognized speakers in our new event space, and students collaborate more in our state-of-the-art study rooms. These new buildings have allowed us to be closer not only in geographical location but in human connection as well. In May, we graduated our largest class ever, with more than 400 degrees conferred. This new class of alumni officially pushed us over the 3,000 mark for total graduates. While these well-prepared graduates were sent into our community to lead and serve, we also welcomed our largest incoming freshman class in September. This group reflects double-digit growth in full-time enrollment. It also boasts the highest incoming high school GPA we have experienced to date while still maintaining the rich diversity of our student population. Providing academic enrichment through hands-on learning has always been a pillar of our success. I’m thrilled to share with you that through a new partnership with the Nevada Institute for Autonomous Systems, the city of Henderson, and the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development, the Henderson Unmanned Vehicle Range at Nevada State College will provide commercial UAS designers and operators a location where they can test their products in a safe and accessible environment. This drone test site program fits in perfectly with our focus on STEM topics, and we look forward to the collaboration and advancement it will bring to Nevada. Lastly, this upcoming fall we will celebrate a major milestone for our college: our 15th anniversary. The journey has been unpredictable, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. We are proud to say that with our dedicated faculty, staff, and awe-inspiring students, Nevada State College continues to be the difference in our community and is positioned to grow even more. We look forward to celebrating with you in 2017! Be bold. Be great. Be State!
Bart Patterson President
What’s INSIDE 4 4
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20
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8 12 16 20 24 26 30 34 38
30
38
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NEVADA STATE SCORPIONS ‘They chose NSC.’ Much like our students, the local scorpions chose our campus
SCHOOL OF EDUCATION TEACHING THE TEACHERS NSC is part of the solution for the future of Southern Nevada
SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS & SCIENCES GROWING GREEN NSC is “growing interest” in horticulture science
SPARKING STEM Nevada State is part of the national effort to get more students involved in the sciences
SCHOOL OF NURSING CARING COUNTS School of Nursing continues its phenomenal growth, utilizing the Caring Science Model
STUDENT LIFE PERSISTENT PROGRESS Recent HSI designation continues advancement of multiculturalism on NSC’s campus
RAISING THE BAR NSC’s comprehensive campaign exceeds goal, raising record amount
NEVADA ‘They chose NSC.’ Much like our students, the Just how did Nevada State College (NSC) end up with a scorpion mascot? According to Dr. Andy Kuniyuki, dean of the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS), the scorpion claimed NSC, not the other way around. He shares, “We are the only school that has been claimed by its mascot. In fall 2002, when the college opened its doors to the Dawson Building, the scorpions were already there, waiting to invite the rest of us in. They were willing to share their space with this budding new college.” The scorpions must have known what a comprehensive educational experience NSC would continually bring to its students and staff alike. In 2002, the first class of NSC students voted to select the institution’s mascot and colors. “During our early years, gold scorpions made regular appearances around the Dawson Building,” says Dr. Rho Hudson, an associate professor of education. “The scorpion mascot and the school colors of gold and black were a perfect fit with our surrounding landscape.”
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STATE SCORPIONS local scorpions chose our campus
[ 2016] Nevada State College [5]
Students embrace SCOTTY the Scorpion and the values he embodies.
“We are the only school that has been claimed by its mascot.” – Dr. Andy Kuniyuki
The college’s 6-foot live scorpion mascot
Stinger. Kuniyuki shares that the committee
in costume was first introduced, without
selections were based in part on the name’s
a name, to the greater community in
total number of submissions as well as on
April 2012 during the Henderson Heritage
other criteria, including creativity and the
Days Parade. Quickly embraced by the
reflection of NSC’s spirit.
community, a campuswide effort took place that September during the fall 2012 semester
After the finalists were chosen, an election
to name the creature that would come to
took place, during which nearly 250 votes
embody NSC’s sense of freedom and unique
were received. “The name Scotty was
educational opportunities.
chosen during the campuswide selection process held that September,” says Kuniyuki.
“Students, faculty, and staff members had
He goes on to explain how Scotty became
a unique opportunity to contribute to the
SCOTTY, the acronym, which was suggested
history of Nevada State College by taking
by a student. It stands for Scorpion
part in the official naming of the college’s
Community of Today, Tomorrow, Yesterday.
scorpion mascot,” recalls Kuniyuki. During the first two weeks of the naming process,
“The overwhelming participation and
people across campus submitted more than
enthusiasm for the naming of our mascot is a
200 name ideas via an online nomination
true representation of the spirit and campus
form. An on-campus committee composed
pride at Nevada State College,” commented
of students, alumni, faculty, staff, and
NSC President Bart Patterson at the time.
administrators eventually narrowed the
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overwhelming number of entries down
Keeping in line with the mascot’s sense of
to three finalists: Scotty, Sullivan, and
the campus as a community, it was only
fitting that the most prominent feature seen
get the geologic feature renamed Mount
when driving to the 509-acre campus should
Scorpion, the U.S. Board on Geographic
be called Mount Scorpion. On April 30,
Names approved the proposal in April 2015.
2012, two major events happened involving
According to Kuniyuki, “Student leaders,
NSC: Bart Patterson was approved as the
faculty, and staff all felt that being able to
college’s president, and NSC representatives
name the recognizable landmark which
informed the Board of Regents that they
overlooks the campus after the school’s
intended to seek official federal naming of
mascot would embody the tenacity and grit
the large mountain just behind the college’s
of the NSC spirit. The federal government
locale. Shortly after, President Patterson and
finally realized we were right all along and
then-Nevada State Student Alliance Student
officially named it Mount Scorpion.”
Body President Deuvall Dorsey hiked to the top, metaphorically paving the way for NSC.
It has become a tradition to hike Mount Scorpion each February and again in
In 2014, the Office of Community
October. Faculty, staff, students, and alumni
Engagement and Diversity Initiatives (CEDI)
join in the hikes. Each hike, as they reach
officially took on the naming project.
the summit, they are able to note the
The process involved several local, state,
extraordinary growth of the campus.
and federal agencies, and it required getting letters of support from county and tribal governments, shares CEDI Program Coordinator Amey Evaluna, who managed project communications. After three years of working behind the scenes to
*For more information on Mount Scorpion, please visit nsc.edu/MountScorpion. *To keep up with SCOTTY the Scorpion, find him on Facebook at facebook.com/ SCOTTYtheScorpion.
[ 2016] Nevada State College [7]
DENNIS POTTHOFF, PH.D. Dr. Dennis Potthoff fell in love with teaching more than 40 years ago. The ten years he spent teaching middle school students was pivotal to a career that also includes stints in higher education at four institutions. Currently, Dr. Potthoff is especially fascinated by the topics of student engagement, collaborative teaching and learning processes, and the best models for preparing new teachers for work in schools situated within an increasingly diverse and technological democratic society. He is honored to serve as the dean of the School of Education.
SCHOOL OF EDUC
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Letter from the DEAN What a difference a year makes! A year ago, this dean’s message reminded readers of the K–12 teacher licensure programs offered by the School of Education (SoE) and invited them to visit the newly christened Nursing, Science & Education (NSE) building. It is clear that the excitement generated by the build-out of our campus initiated considerable momentum. A five-year Strategic Plan, conceived by SoE faculty in fall 2015, produced three key strategic goals:
EDUCATION
ATION
“It is clear that the excitement generated by the build-out of our campus initiated considerable momentum.”
Goal 1: Support the Teacher Pipeline—find more teachers for K–12 schools. Goal 2: Support Student Success—help students reach their educational goals. Goal 3: Enhance Program Quality—improve existing programs and create new ones. A Teacher Academy program, in collaboration with select Clark County School District (CCSD) high schools, is in the works. Juniors and seniors interested in teaching will have the opportunity to explore this career option. Support for CCSD Alternative Route to Licensure (ARL) teaching candidates has been expanded. Streamlined articulation agreements with both the College of Southern Nevada and Western Nevada College will smooth the pathway for transfer students. New programs, including an inclusive early childhood program, a deaf education program, and a master’s in speech language pathology program, have been proposed. The SoE has also expanded its efforts to assist pre-education and pre-speech pathology majors who are preparing for the Praxis Core Exam. Pass rates are climbing! The SoE has taken steps to strengthen support for our Upward Bound program, which prepares high school students from historically underserved groups for college. This effort aligns perfectly with the NSC mission. The quality of the speech language pathology program will be significantly enhanced with the opening of a RiteCare clinic, a collaboration with the Scottish Rite Foundation, which provides free clinic services to young children. The implementation of an SoE-wide assessment plan, which will provide evidence of the quality of performance of SoE students, strengthens the school’s commitment to continuous program improvement.
Dennis Potthoff, Ph.D. Dean, School of Education [ 2016] Nevada State College [9]
Alumni PROFILE After graduating from NSC in the spring of 2016, Alexandria
Alo has continued her dedication to working with autistic children in the field of speech language pathology. Her sense
jojojoshuua Showing love for our favorite major at NSC by wearing our shirts!! #ElementaryAndSpecialEducation #BeBoldBeGreatBeState #NSC
of quiet grace helped her immensely in interactions with students, faculty, and peers, and is now benefiting her career. An excellent student who maintained over a 3.9 GPA at Nevada State, Alexandria represents all that is right in the field of education. She is bright, dedicated, and committed to using her strengths to help others. Although she could have chosen a career path with greater recognition or a larger paycheck, Alexandria has chosen to spend her time making the lives of others better. By providing students with the means to communicate their wants and needs, she will be improving
ALEXANDRIA ALO
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our community, our state, and our way of life.
Faculty SPOTLIGHT Why did you choose Nevada State College? I chose NSC because they were addressing a much-needed issue within the field of speech language pathology.
EDUCATION
ms.leeshy I’m so grateful for Amanda Vandehei and the rest of School of Ed department. I learned so much from them.
Although a master’s degree is required for most speech language pathologists (SLPs) to work, Nevada allows those with a B.A. to work in the public school setting. NSC’s program was designed to ensure that students were prepared to work in the Clark County School District (CCSD) after graduation.
What is the best thing about teaching at NSC? I am happy to act as instructor, advisor, and mentor for so many wonderful SLP students.
What inspires you? I have a strong desire to ensure that students are ready to work with children. I use my grandson as my guide: would I allow this student to work with my grandson? If so, they are ready to move forward. If not, what can I do to assist in their development?
ELIZABETH MEYEROWITZ, ED.D. Assistant Professor of Speech Language Pathology
What’s on your nightstand/what are you reading or listening to? I am an avid reader of mystery fiction, and I am currently listening to the Hamilton soundtrack.
Finally, knowing that NSC’s mascot is a scorpion, what would you do if you saw a real live scorpion? Scorpions are a familiar sight to me after living in Arizona for 30 years. My son found a scorpion when we first moved here. I must admit, it is no longer a living specimen.
[ 2016] Nevada State College [11]
TEACHING NSC is part of the solution for the “There is no greater challenge for our state right now. We need to have an adequate supply of fully licensed and effective teachers for the children of this state.” – Dr. Dennis Potthoff
“I believe that Nelson Mandela got it right when he declared, ‘There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.’ All children deserve a great education. We need to find a wellprepared teacher for every classroom.” These are the words of Dr. Dennis Potthoff, dean of the School of Education, who is on a crusade to provide more qualified teachers. He is quick to remind readers that from its inception, Nevada State College (NSC) has been a strong proponent of teacher/educator preparation, and this mindset continues to grow. Citing a national study that projects the number of school-aged children living in Nevada to increase by 26 percent between 2012 and 2024, Potthoff notes that this rate of increase will be the fastest of the 50 states. “There is no greater challenge for our state right now. We need to have an adequate supply of fully licensed and effective teachers for the children of this state,” he says. “We cannot tell parents that we don’t
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THE TEACHERS future of Southern Nevada have enough teachers or schools; failure
Increasing the “teacher pipeline,” as it has
is not an option. To meet these demands,
come to be called, is something Potthoff
we have to be innovative, aggressive, and
strongly believes in. The three strategic
creative with our recruitment.”
goals of NSC’s School of Education are: 1) increasing NSC’s contribution to the pipeline;
“The Clark County School District (CCSD)
2) elevating the success of NSC’s students;
is in a unique situation,” he says. “This area
and 3) enhancing the programming available
grew so fast over the past 30 to 40 years that
to students. These objectives work in tandem.
the district fell behind in staffing teachers.”
And, as Potthoff notes, in order to reach
In fact, he explains, Nevada’s growth
these goals, two broad categories of actions
outpaced its educational infrastructure,
are being employed: 1) building on the
and the continuation of that lag means that
existing NSC programs; and 2) putting forth
the teacher shortage persisted. In recent
new innovative programs to help further the
years, increasingly more states are reporting
teacher pipeline.
teacher shortages. Potthoff explains that the Clark County “There is no one solution to this problem,”
School District has begun recruiting teachers
comments Potthoff. “It’s a challenge that needs
in a variety of nontraditional ways. Nevada
to be approached from many angles.” Just
State College works with CCSD’s Alternative
as families utilize various means to meet their
Route to Licensure program (for those who
children’s needs, preparing qualified teachers
have bachelor’s degrees in subjects other
takes creativity and innovation. Potthoff is
than education but want to teach) and is
helping Nevada State College discover new
also partnering with the district to reach out
ways to meet this necessary demand.
to current high school students in an effort
[ 2016] Nevada State College [13]
to encourage them to consider teaching as
Potthoff also explains NSC’s TRIO Upward
a profession. “We are going to have to find
Bound program, which provides fundamental
more teachers internally, and that means
support to participants in preparation for
selling Nevadans on the value of teaching,”
college entrance. The program, which serves
says Potthoff.
high school students from low-income families and/or families in which neither parent holds
He continues, saying, “A Teacher Academy
a bachelor’s degree, has a goal of increasing
Project is in the works, where through building
the rate at which participants complete
partnerships with designated schools, we
secondary education and enroll in and
will identify junior- and senior-level students
eventually graduate from postsecondary
interested in teaching and allow them to
institutions. “TRIO programs are a very
complete some of the college coursework
important part of NSC programming, and
and training while they are still in high school,”
the School of Education is proud to serve as
he says. “For example, we are engaged in
a home for this work,” says Potthoff. “We are
the early stages of a potential collaboration
convinced that there are active TRIO high
with Mojave High School on a cohort-based
school students that are future teachers, and
program where students would spend two
it’s our job to find them.”
years at the College of Southern Nevada before transferring to NSC to finish the
Another place that potential teachers are
requirements for college graduation and
being recruited from is right on campus.
teacher licensure.”
“There are so many students that haven’t yet figured out what they want to do,” says
“We try to make our entire student body aware of the fact that teaching is a program option on our campus. We would like to show them there are other pathways.” – Dr. Dennis Potthoff
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Potthoff. “We try to make our entire student
of Education. Dire circumstances often
body aware of the fact that teaching is a
generate amazing accomplishment. Crisis
program option on our campus. We would
is a great motivator. The severe and likely
like to show them there are other pathways.”
ongoing shortage of K–12 teachers creates an environment that makes authentic
As part of the key strategy for new
collaboration more possible. It truly is an all-
programming that will also help build the
hands-on-deck situation; the NSC School of
teacher pipeline, NSC recently proposed
Education is committed to working closely
four ideas to the Nevada System of Higher
with colleagues across our own campus, with
Education (NSHE) for discussion and,
other four- and two-year NSHE institutions, with
hopefully, future approval and funding.
K–12 school districts, and with organizations
These include an inclusive early childhood
such as What’s Next Nevada and the Nevada
education program (to work with children
Consortium on the Teacher Pipeline. No single
from birth to age 8), a deaf education
institution or entity can successfully achieve
program, a master’s degree in speech
what needs to be done. Working together,
language pathology, and a program that
however, I am confident that we can make a
would prepare more math and science
difference for children and families.”
teachers for secondary schools. Summing it up, Potthoff shares the following thoughts: “I am so proud of the work we are doing in the Nevada State College School
For more information about the programs within the School of Education, please visit nsc.edu/education.
NSC students take classes at local schools, where they are able to gain real world experience working with students in the classroom.
[ 2016] Nevada State College [15]
ANDY KUNIYUKI, PH.D. Dr. Andy Kuniyuki serves as the dean of Liberal Arts & Sciences. He received his B.S. (biology) from the University of Hawaii and his Ph.D. (genetics) from the University of California. His belief that biology is pre-eminent began with his study of the Hawaiian Drosophila and continued with his many research endeavors employing monoclonal antibody, tissue culture, oligonucleotide, and immunodiagnostic technologies.
SCHOOL OF LIB ARTS SCIE [16] black [+] gold ANNUAL
Letter from the DEAN Dear Friends, It has been another busy, exciting year in the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS) as our dedicated faculty and staff continue to provide new opportunities for our students and the larger community. We are especially pleased to introduce new majors, including the Bachelor of Arts in communication degree, which allows students to concentrate on either public relations or media studies. We also created a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in allied health sciences in conjunction with the College of Southern Nevada (CSN). Through this partnership, CSN students complete three years of study in technical fields, such as sonography and health information technology, and then transfer to NSC to complete their bachelor’s degrees and gain essential skills in communication and leadership, which are increasingly in demand among employers. The degree is designed to meet the needs of working health professionals, ensuring we continue to provide accessible educational pathways for the Southern Nevada community.
LIBERAL ARTS
ERAL AND NCES
“I am incredibly proud of the many projects and experiences we provided our students in the past year to enhance their learning.”
Our faculty continue to pursue hands-on learning opportunities for students. For example, Dr. Chris Harris, an associate professor of communication, accompanied students to the prestigious Salzburg Academy for Media and Global Change in Salzburg, Austria. The three-week summer academy brought together undergraduates from colleges around the world to consider pressing issues related to media literacy. In her environmental science course, Dr. Jennifer Edmonds integrated a unit on urban farming, using the newly built NSC garden to enrich students’ understanding of food production and sustainability. Visual media students continue to gain experience writing, directing, and editing films, and one of our seniors won the grand prize for her High Sierra Film Festival submission. Four students worked with Dr. Zachary Woydziak on research that was published in the academic chemistry journal Synthetic Communications, while three LAS students won competitive National Science Foundation-EPSCoR grants to support their research with faculty. I am incredibly proud of these and the many other projects and experiences we provided our students in the past year to enhance their learning beyond the classroom. The LAS faculty and staff are incredibly dedicated to NSC’s mission of transforming students’ lives by providing excellent learning environments.
Andy Kuniyuki, Ph.D. Dean, School of Liberal Arts & Sciences [ 2016] Nevada State College [17]
Alumni PROFILE Quick to say that Nevada State College (NSC) prepared him well for the doctorate degree in medicinal chemistry he’s now seeking,
Jacob Sorrentino’s story isn’t that of
a typical college student. When he began classes at NSC, it was with a promise to his parents to give it a two-year try; in his own mind, the plan was to find a well-paying job after that time, drop out of school, and provide his own living. Little did Jacob know the influence that Dr. Zachary Woydziak and organic chemistry would have on his life. Discovering this field really energized Jacob, so much so
JACOB SORRENTINO
that as he progressed in the program, he became a selfdeclared “lab rat” and helped other students with their chemistry studies.
chrizznunu Gotta love these business classes #collegelife
In fact, his groundbreaking research and dedication led to being honored with an award by the American Chemistry Society as well as acceptance to one of the top five medicinal chemistry graduate programs in the United States at the University of Kansas, where he continues to expand upon his successes.
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Faculty SPOTLIGHT Why did you choose Nevada State College? I chose NSC because of its commitment to teaching. We really do put teaching first.
What is the best thing about teaching at NSC? The best thing about teaching at NSC is the student interactions. Our students face plenty of challenges in learning the material, but they are motivated and hard-working. We don’t have a pampered student population.
What inspires you? I’m inspired by students who aren’t afraid to dive in and try difficult things. A positive attitude can truly take them places.
SERGE BALLIF, PH.D. Assistant Professor of Mathematics
LIBERAL ARTS
jessicalr702 I bring to you caffeine! The one thing keeping me sane while studying for organic chemistry exams! #organicchemistry #molecule #caffeine
What’s on your nightstand/what are you reading or listening to? I am re-reading The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. Best fantasy book ever!
Finally, knowing that NSC’s mascot is a scorpion, what would you do if you saw a real live scorpion? When I come across a scorpion, I call my wife and kids and we get out the UV flashlight. I can’t pass up an opportunity to experience nature when it comes crawling along.
[ 2016] Nevada State College [19]
GROWING NSC is “We knew that this concept could be very useful to those studying both biology and/ or physical sciences such as chemistry, even if they don’t plan on a career in horticulture.” – Dr. Gwen Sharp
When Nevada State College (NSC) applied for a STEM Workforce Challenge Grant, it was with the plan that the funds would be used to develop a horticultural science certificate program. According to Interim Provost Dr. Robin Cresiski, NSC pursued the grant because “there was significant faculty interest in combining the philosophy of sustainability with research interests in citrus health, soil microbiology, hydroponics, and food production. This certificate addresses those issues while also meeting a growing industry need in Southern Nevada.” NSC officials were delighted when they learned the grant had been awarded in the spring of 2016. The $54,746 grant will fund curriculum and infrastructure, including an outdoor garden farm as well as a small greenhouse for the program, and some of this groundwork has already been laid. “Nevada State College prides itself on experiential curriculum opportunities, and
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GREEN “growing interest” in horticulture science after many conversations with the Physical
“We quickly realized that out in the desert,
and Life Sciences department, it was
we face different challenges of pest control,”
agreed that this type of program would be
notes Sharp. “Where a general type of fence
welcomed,” says Dr. Gwen Sharp, associate
would work within a city, it turned out to not
dean of the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences.
be secure enough out here. Animals were
“We already had a faculty member, Dr.
getting in, and figuring out ways to deter them
Jennifer Edmonds, assistant professor of
turned into yet another learning experience!”
biology, who was conducting hydroponics research, so this fit into our offerings perfectly.
It’s a proven fact that it’s difficult to raise
Additionally, other disciplines on campus
plants in the extreme desert environment. This
offer courses that have relevance to the
certificate program will include research to
horticulture program.”
improve sustainability for desert gardens by studying how changes in various conditions
Sharp continues, “Literally, this is where the
can impact the health of plants. The grant
seed of the idea began. We knew that
covered the cost of an outdoor garden
this concept could be very useful to those
farm and a greenhouse where hydroponics
studying both biology and/or physical
experiments can be conducted. Both the
sciences such as chemistry, even if they don’t
garden and greenhouse will give students
plan on a career in horticulture.”
hands-on experience with indoor and outdoor agricultural systems specifically
With the funding secured, plans began in
adapted to the desert environment.
earnest. By June, a small vegetable garden had been planted just to the west of the
In order to ensure that the program’s
Liberal Arts & Sciences Building on campus.
curriculum meets the needs of Nevada’s
[ 2016] Nevada State College [21]
sustainable desert and hydroponics
phenomenal. “We realized that while the
agricultural sectors, forming partnerships with
certificate is aimed at preparing students
community stakeholders has been key. So
for future employment, there is also a lot of
far, representatives from Green Our Planet,
enthusiasm from people who care about
Garden Farms, and the Springs Preserve have
sustainability and local food issues, even if
committed to sitting on the advisory board.
they may not plan to pursue it as a career.”
Sharp says that when the program is fully
The proposal for the set of courses is currently
approved, students will be able to earn the
undergoing the curriculum approval process,
horticultural science certificate in one year.
with plans for the certificate program to be
The program will cover desert ecosystems,
available starting in the fall of 2017.
hydroponic systems, permaculture, and research on food production in arid climates.
“We’re thrilled to be able to provide this
As part of some courses, students will spend
unique learning opportunity for our students,
several hours per week doing research in
who will get hands-on experience and
the garden under faculty supervision. The
a chance to do independent research
certificate prepares students for jobs such
projects,” shares Sharp. “And employers
as garden, farm, or greenhouse managers;
will have a source of future employees who
produce inspectors; garden consultants; and
have training that prepares them to work in
hydroponics managers and salespeople.
Nevada’s ‘green industry,’ so the program also fills an economic need. Overall, it
Sharp was excited to note that the interest
benefits our campus and the wider Nevada
from the community and students when
community.”
they found out about the future offering was
“We’re thrilled to be able to provide this unique learning opportunity for our students, who will get hands-on experience and a chance to do independent research projects.” – Dr. Gwen Sharp
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Growing in a garden near you: •
Cabbage (red & green)
•
Peas
•
Spinach
•
Broccoli
•
Lettuces (several types)
•
Green onions
•
Rainbow chard
•
Kale
•
Radishes (several types)
•
Arugula
•
Carrots
•
Beets
•
Turnips
•
Herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano, cilantro, parsley)
Students learn about the challenges of growing plants in the desert.
[ 2016] Nevada State College [23]
SPARKING Nevada State is part of the national effort to “The program’s goal is to expose a diverse cohort of students in summer undergraduate research experiences so that they develop skills and credentials for pursuing advanced degrees in STEM fields and eventually enter the biomedical workforce.” – Aster Sigel
By now, you’re probably familiar with the
For the past four years, NSC’s INBRE program,
acronym STEM (Science, Technology,
which is funded by the National Institutes of
Engineering, Math). The concept of preparing
Health, has provided groups of diverse, and
students for these fields that are necessary for
often underrepresented, undergraduate
our future has been a hot topic for the past
students (including those who are first-
few years. One question that keeps coming
generation students and/or from low-income
up is how do we get more female and
populations) a paid summer experience,
minority students interested in these topics?
during which they complete eight to 10 weeks of research. As student Brandon
This objective has been a vital part of the
Walls says, “With the experience I’ve had as
mission of Nevada State College (NSC) since
an undergrad, I’ve realized that research
the beginning, and the college has made
IS something I want to do.” With a goal of
great strides in the STEM arena thus far. One
attending an M.D.-Ph.D. program, he’s recently
such innovative concept that is helping
been working on developing efficient methods
expose more students to STEM fields is the
of synthesizing fluorescent molecular probes
INBRE (IDeA Network of Biomedical Research
that can bind to DNA and RNA to be used for
Excellence) program. “The program’s goal
the detection of biological substances.
is to expose a diverse cohort of students in summer undergraduate research experiences
During this past summer, 12 young women
so that they develop skills and credentials for
participated in INBRE, receiving training in
pursuing advanced degrees in STEM fields and
research techniques and conducting their
eventually enter the biomedical workforce,”
own research alongside NSC’s scientists in a
says INBRE lab coordinator Aster Sigel.
wide range of fields, including microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry, and genetics.
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STEM get more students involved in the sciences According to Sigel, “From day one, I work
by making myself visible and available to
alongside these women, supporting,
them, is important,” says Sigel. “For them to
encouraging, and training them. We discuss
see someone successful that they can identify
everything from laboratory safety to various
with, someone who looks like them, they gain
research techniques.”
the confidence they need to keep going. It can be a great reminder that they, too, can
Pre-nursing student Melissa Anselmo was
do it.” She continues, saying that the female
honored to be chosen as an INBRE summer
faculty who participate in INBRE serve multiple
program participant. As someone who never
roles: professors, role models, and mentors.
thought of herself as a “science person,” she is truly enjoying her research through NSC.
Sigel notes that the majority of the students
“My summer research was studying bacterial
who have participated in the INBRE summer
differentiation in contaminated ice cream
program continue their research projects
samples,” she notes. She explained that as part
beyond the 10-week summer session. “Their
of a three-member team, she went into the
experience in the INBRE program encourages
field and collected ice cream samples before
them to pursue post-baccalaureate degrees
returning to NSC’s lab to test them for different
and careers in STEM fields. This progress
types of bacteria. “Certain bacteria can do
would not have been possible without
more harm than others to small children and
the opportunities for summer research
older adults. It was interesting to take all the
experiences that INBRE provides,” she says.
different factors into consideration.” “As a female and a minority in a field with little
For more information on the INBRE program, please visit nsc.edu/INBRE
diversity, I realize that helping these women,
[ 2016] Nevada State College [25]
NEAL ROSENBURG, PH.D., RN Dr. Neal Rosenburg earned an honors B.A. in French from Saint Louis University and a B.S. in nursing, an M.S. in nursing (educator), and a Ph.D. in nursing (research) from the University of Missouri. He participated as a TL1 predoctorate scholar at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Mo. with the Department of Infectious Diseases/AIDS Clinical Trial Unit and has an active research trajectory in Cameroon, West Africa. His research interests include maternal/ infant HIV awareness and prevention via maternal feeding options.
SCHOOL OF NUR [26] black [+] gold ANNUAL
Letter from the DEAN Welcome to Nevada State College and the School of Nursing! The School of Nursing is a dynamic, innovative, and exciting place to learn and work. We are building a rich tradition in nursing education that is framed within the sacred work of Dr. Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring. This guiding framework is a catalyst for the creativity, rigor, and excellence found throughout the nursing curricula. The talented faculty and staff in the School of Nursing focus on providing a holistic experience to our students. This commitment drives the outstanding and intimate student experiences within our well-sought-after and competitive nursing programs. We are proud to align with the college’s mission of creating more student access to these exceptional nursing programs to the many interested students in the Southern Nevada community. Since January 2015, the School of Nursing has increased the number of enrollments by more than 50 percent while remaining anchored to our nursing roots of compassion, care, and service. This is noble work, and we are honored to share this with our hardworking and dedicated nursing students. We are the only midtier baccalaureate-focused nursing program in the Nevada System of Higher Education. Our CCNE-accredited baccalaureate programs offer great flexibility in programming options: the traditional full-time track with entry points in fall and spring semesters, the full-time 15-month summer start/finish track, the part-time track with entry points in fall and spring semesters with course/clinical programming commitments Thursday through Saturday, and the RN to BSN track with entry points throughout the year for working, licensed registered nurses. More than 1,000 students have graduated from the baccalaureate nursing program at Nevada State College, many of whom have chosen to remain right here in Southern Nevada. A nursing shortage persists nationally, and Southern Nevada is no exception. Nevada State
NURSING
SING
“We are the only mid-tier, baccalaureatefocused nursing program in the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE).”
College affirms its commitment to addressing this concern by continuing to explore additional growth opportunities and programming options to better meet the needs of our students and their busy lives. I welcome you to come visit; spend some time with us at the School of Nursing. We would be honored to share our story of success with you. Kind regards,
Neal Rosenburg, Ph.D., RN Dean, School of Nursing [ 2016] Nevada State College [27]
Alumni PROFILE Doreen Oberes entered the nursing program to fulfill her mother’s dream of becoming a nurse. At the time, she believed that whatever made her mother happy would also make her happy. During the first two semesters of the nursing program, Doreen learned new skills and had clinical experiences that allowed her to refine those skills. Halfway through her degree program, she was diagnosed with discoid lupus erythematosus, and three months later, with thyroid carcinoma. During her own medical treatment, she realized what a fulfilling career nursing was and knew it was her own
DOREEN OBERES
abby_mangubat SUPER STOKED TO SAY THAT I’VE BEEN ACCEPTED INTO NSC’S FULL TIME NURSING PROGRAM!!!! I’ll be starting Spring 2017. I can’t believe it’s finally happening!
[28] black [+] gold ANNUAL
career decision, not her mother’s. Although her treatment continues, Doreen has demonstrated her caring and compassionate nature to her own patients.
Faculty SPOTLIGHT Why did you choose Nevada State College? Nevada State College was an easy choice for me for three reasons. First, it’s the type of educational institution that expects me to have teaching as my number one priority as a professor, rather than research. Second, being a minority myself, the diverse student population at NSC is very appealing to me. I want to guide, inspire, and ensure that our minority students are succeeding and fulfilling their academic dreams. Lastly, I knew this was the place for me when I learned that Jean Watson’s caring science theoretical framework was the foundation of the nursing program.
What is the best thing about teaching at NSC? The Nevada State College School of Nursing has a personalized commitment to its students. There is much
CECELIA FERNAN, ED.D., MSN, RNC-MNN Assistant Professor
thought and planning done to ensure that their needs are met the best we can. I am very proud to be part of a culture that I can describe as “student-centric” in many ways.
What inspires you? People who love to learn, lead, and take on challenges inspire me. Because my Benedictine University professors made such a profound impact on me as a person and as an educator, I would like to do the same for my students.
NURSING
penguin_in_las_vegas Last day of clinical at Valley Hospital #clinicalgroup #nscnursing #bsn
What’s on your nightstand/what are you reading or listening to? I listen to my iPod/portable speaker constantly. I recently finished reading Gladwell’s Outliers: The Story of Success and The Tipping Point.
Finally, knowing that NSC’s mascot is a scorpion, what would you do if you saw a real live scorpion? I probably would run as fast as I can.
[ 2016] Nevada State College [29]
CARING NSC’s School of Nursing continues its phenomenal growth, “While we knew we were poised for phenomenal growth, we had no idea of the full extent we would experience.” – Dr. Neal Rosenburg
When Nevada State College (NSC) School of Nursing (SoN) officials went before the Nevada State Board of Nursing in September 2014, it was with the overall goal of expanding the program. At the time, plans included adding more students and updating the curriculum. Little did they know just how much growth and vital community partnerships this would actually amount to over the next few years. “While we knew we were poised for phenomenal growth, we had no idea of the full extent we would experience,” says Dr. Neal Rosenburg, dean of the School of Nursing. “We were aware that the acceptance of this initiative would enable the SoN to grow in the manner necessary, but it has also truly enabled us to share our expertise and qualified students with the local health community at large.” With Rosenburg leading the effort, and after a unanimous vote by the board,
[30] black [+] gold ANNUAL
COUNTS utilizing the Caring Science Model NSC’s request was approved. In 2014,
and assistant professor in the SoN. She
the dean announced that the nursing
notes the following: 1) quality instruction
school’s growth would be incremental
and education, as supported by the
and that by the spring 2015 semester,
National Council Licensure Examination
enrollment would increase for both part-
(NCLEX) results; 2) more admission slots
time and regular track students, doubling
opening up, thus increasing a student’s
the numbers at that time.
likelihood of getting into the program; 3) NSC’s SoN offering the most cost-effective
Rosenburg explains that this action
local Bachelor of Science in nursing
was taken to meet student needs. “We
degree; and 4) the student experience
have a waitlist of qualified applicants,”
provided by NSC’s quality faculty.
he says. “With these changes, we will accommodate more qualified students
Nevada State College works hard to
than ever — and it’s imperative, given
ensure that there are plenty of well-
the local nursing shortage.” It was also
prepared nurses in the local market.
perfect timing in that the new buildings
Many of the college’s nursing graduates
on NSC’s campus opened just before the
stay in Southern Nevada to work, helping
fall 2015 semester.
offset the shortage of qualified nursing professionals.
Looking at the numbers, one can see that NSC’s nursing program has more than
According to Llasus, “Current data
doubled in size over the past few years.
available on nursing workforce rankings
“We believe it’s a result of a variety of
reports that the state of Nevada ranks 51st
things,” says Dr. Ludy Llasus, associate dean
for registered nurses on active licensees per
[ 2016] Nevada State College [31]
100,000 population.” She also notes that
In 2015, Centennial Hills Hospital Medical
out of the health care occupation postings
Center, part of the Valley Health System,
for the state of Nevada for 2015, registered
instituted a program with four cohorts of
nurses (RNs) were ranked No. 1 (a total
NSC students. This group began work on
of 10,640 RN job postings for 2015 and a
the orthopedic unit after being selected
projected 12,770 postings for 2016).
by the hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer John
Coldsmith. During spring 2016, Centennial
Relationships with the medical community
Hills’ eighth-floor medical-surgical unit also
have been integral to the school’s success.
transitioned into a Caring Science Unit. In
The BSN Clinical Partnership Director of
fall 2016, the hospital’s Women’s Services
Nursing, Ruby Wertz, explains that some
area and the IMC/ICU units became
partnerships benefit both NSC and the
additional Caring Science Units, where NSC
Southern Nevada community. For those
students are learning from trained care
not familiar, NSC prides itself on practicing
coaches (selected staff nurses).
Jean Watson’s Caring Science philosophy of nursing, a set of practices that enable
“Our ongoing mission is to provide a
clinical nurses and academic programs
caring clinical environment that helps our
throughout the world to use Watson’s
nursing students transition from college to
published works on the philosophy and
new graduate nurses,” says Coldsmith. “It
theory of human caring and the art and
teaches them important clinical skills, along
science of caring in nursing. NSC now
with how to show caring, compassion,
shares this philosophy with the Southern
and empathy. All staff need to be able to
Nevada community.
genuinely connect with our patients and families. This builds trust with our patients
“Our ongoing mission is to provide a caring clinical environment which helps our nursing students transition from college to new graduate nurse.” – John Coldsmith
[32] black [+] gold ANNUAL
who aren’t feeling well or may be receiving
continues to develop and students progress
bad news.”
in the nursing program.
He continues, saying, “This program explains
It’s obvious that the SoN leads the
the ‘care’ necessary in ‘health care.’”
charge when it comes to providing a comprehensive nursing educational
Wertz notes that a celebration took place
experience.
for the program’s one-year anniversary at Centennial Hills Hospital on August 29, with Dr. Jean Watson in attendance. The celebration included the care coaches and students from each of the three cohorts of the Caring Science Units.
For more information about the programs within the School of Nursing, please visit nsc.edu/nursing. *OSI Analysis of Burning Glass/Labor Insights data (2016) from Current and Projected
Because of the success of these programs,
Health Workforce Supply and Demand
Wertz shares that Mountain View Hospital
in Nevada by John Packham, Office of
and Valley Hospital will institute Caring
Statewide Initiatives, University of Nevada
Science Units in 2017, as will the new
School of Medicine.
Henderson Hospital. “Beginning in May 2017, eight students will be selected by Henderson Hospital’s Chief of Nursing Tina Coker to work on the Adult Health Unit,” she says. Other units will become Caring Science Units as the academic-practice partnership
[ 2016] Nevada State College [33]
RICHARD YAO, PH.D. Very familiar with Nevada State after teaching on campus for ten years, Dr. Richard Yao now serves as NSC’s dean of students, where he develops and oversees all aspects of student life. He earned both his bachelor’s degree (psychology) and master’s degree (clinical psychology) from Eastern Illinois University, before completing a Ph.D. (clinical psychology) at Fielding Graduate University. Dr. Yao is a State of Nevada licensed clinical psychologist.
STUDENT [34] black [+] gold ANNUAL
Letter from the DEAN My overarching goal as dean of students is to develop and guide programs that facilitate students’ academic, professional, and psychosocial development. As such, we have focused our efforts on a full integration of academic and student affairs programs to ensure student success. In addition, we have worked with our student leaders to ensure that student life initiatives are congruent with the academic mission of the college. Perhaps most importantly, our programs strive to demonstrate the impact of their services on student retention. We know that there is a significant correlation between students who utilize our Academic Advising and Academic Success Centers and increased student retention. Students who utilize these programs have a higher retention percentage when compared with students who do not. This impact is true for all students, but it is particularly valuable for students who enter NSC with a high school GPA below 3.0. As such, we are expanding these programs to increase student utilization and outreach. We recently hired a new director, Cristina Caputo, for the Academic Success Center (ASC). She is collaborating with others to develop an embedded peer support program through the ASC. We are also increasing our staff in the Academic Advising Center to meet student demand and have added a peermentoring program for first-year students. Our Disability Resource Center (DRC) has made tremendous strides under the leadership of Sandi Patton, who has assumed a statewide leadership role and founded the Nevada Chapter of the Association on Higher Education and Disabilities (AHEAD). Our Nevada State Student Alliance, under the leadership of President Desiree DeCosta, has made a conscious effort to collaborate with academic programs and college leadership to improve student success. They worked with the Office of the Provost to expand our Course Assistant program, provided support to the chemistry faculty in their pursuit of a nuclear magnetic resonance machine, supported our undergraduate research symposium, and supported various student clubs in attending conferences and competitions. Moving forward, all our programs are developing student learning objectives and hope to start measuring outcomes this spring.
Richard Yao, Ph.D. Dean of Students
STUDENT LIFE
LIFE
“We know that there is a significant correlation between students who utilize our Academic Advising and Academic Success Centers and increased student retention.�
[ 2016] Nevada State College [35]
Never a dull moment for Phil LaMotte In his position as Nevada State College’s
So I did always have it in the back of my
(NSC) student activities manager, Phil
mind that I would like to come back and
LaMotte enjoys getting to know the student
give to the community that gave me so
body and the types of activities they’d like
much. When I came for my interview and
to have available. In addition to overseeing
saw the two new buildings, I got an energy
business operations for the Nevada State
that I can’t really explain.”
Student Alliance (NSSA), he also serves in an advisory role for those participating in NSSA
LaMotte has a unique background that
and acts as a resource for the various clubs
more than qualifies him for this position. He
and organizations.
served with AmeriCorps in Philadelphia, working with the education-based nonprofit
“The key principle I live by is service to a cause greater than self.” – Phil LaMotte
“When I accepted this position, I was well
organization City Year before returning to
aware of NSSA’s structure, although the
NSC to complete his bachelor’s degree in
culture and dynamics have changed.”
psychology in 2013. After that, he completed
This is because he was involved in NSSA
resource development for the Wilmington
as a student. “So I really tried to make a
Area Rebuilding Ministry for a year before
deliberate effort to be an observer and
participating in a fellowship in the New
learn the intricacies and new trajectory.”
Hanover County Strategy and Policy
He shares that NSSA is currently revising its
Department. In December 2015, he obtained
constitution and bylaws and is creating its first
a Master of Public Administration from the
strategic plan. Part of his position includes
University of North Carolina, Wilmington.
ensuring that NSSA complies with Nevada Open Meeting Law and keeping track of the
He wears many hats due to his varied
organization’s votes and finances.
responsibilities. “I think that my previous work experience taught me the ability
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According to LaMotte, “The key principle
to be flexible in daily activities in order to
I live by is service to a cause greater than
focus on the next deadline,” comments
self. Nevada State College gave me a
LaMotte. “Although none of my previous
second chance to live up to my potential.
work experience taught me exactly how to
complete the tasks that are most relevant to my job now, my experience and education taught me how to problem-solve and think
2016–17 NSSA Executive Board Desiree DeCosta, President
critically so that I can address any situation in an efficient, effective manner.” Along with his recent supervision of student workers at the new fitness center on campus, LaMotte has been busy working with a group of students to pursue the Congressional Award. By helping them glean leadership qualities through personal development, he’s set a goal to have 20 students achieve the honor over the next four years. This national award
Heather Phelps, Vice President Abby Mangubat, Secretary Moee Turbin, Chair of Public Relations AJ Wagner, Chair of Capital Improvement Lindsay Newark, Chair of Programming Daniel Chapman, Chair of Budget and Finance
program involves setting goals in four program areas: Volunteer Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/ Exploration. Recently, the NSC group performed community service by volunteering at the Nevada State Veterans Home in Boulder City with the Veterans Olympics. He plans to
2016–17 NSSA Senators From the 0–29 hour group Aldo Ayala, La’Wanda Bass, Taylor Gangi, Doug Mitchell
offer at least one volunteer activity per month starting in the spring.
From the 30-59 credit hour group Linh Truoung, Marco Lopez, Tim Christenson, Alicia Contreras
“I’m most excited about NSC’s future because of the opportunity to continue growing while finding ways to maintain the culture that makes our campus so great.”
From the 60-89 credit hour group Katie Jensen, Christina Barron, Luis Montanez, Rafael Salazar From the 90 and above credit hour group Nanika Moseley (3 vacancies)
STUDENT LIFE [ 2016] Nevada State College [37]
PERSISTENT Recent HSI designation continues “Even in the 1980s, the trend in the Clark County School District’s (CCSD) student population was minority majority.” – Dr. Edith Fernández
One of the founding priorities of Nevada State College (NSC) was to best serve the needs of Southern Nevada’s diverse local population. Discussions about this important topic took place before NSC even existed. After the college became a reality, these conversations continued throughout campus and the community at large. “Even in the 1980s, the trend in the Clark County School District’s student population was minority majority,” explains Dr. Edith Fernández, NSC’s associate vice president of Community Engagement & Diversity Initiatives. “So we knew that it was only a matter of time before this wave would hit higher education.” With this in mind, steps were taken early on to ensure that the collegiate experience provided by NSC considered both the necessary resources and the support needs of Southern Nevada’s students. Locally, Latinos are one of the most prominent
[38] black [+] gold ANNUAL
PROGRESS advancement of multiculturalism on NSC’s campus minority populations, so their culture’s needs
student success. One of the task force’s
were taken into consideration, as were
achievements was connecting NSC officials
those of other local minority groups. With
with the external Latino community and
the awareness that this knowledge could
pursuing the path to becoming an HSI.
improve retention and graduation rates, unique ways were employed to keep NSC
One early step along NSC’s HSI pathway
competitive, including building appropriate
was when the college was designated as
student support services and attracting
a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) as well
diverse faculty.
as an Emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution. At that time, NSC President Bart Patterson
In 2012, NSC formed its Diversity & Inclusion
announced that these initiatives would
Task Force to think critically about a wide
have a direct impact on the quality of life
range of diversity and inclusion-related issues
for all students, making for strong graduates
across campus. Its purpose was to review,
who will be ready to become the “next
examine, and support NSC programs, policies,
generation of Nevada leaders.”
and procedures that impact experiences of the student body and staff. By identifying
According to the U.S. Department of
strategies and making recommendations,
Education (DOE), the HSI designation refers
the goal was a coordinated communitywide
to an institution participating in a federal
approach to diversity and inclusion. Sharing
program designed to assist colleges or
their varied perspectives, members of the
universities in the United States that attempt
group developed a five-year Hispanic-Serving
to assist first-generation, low-income
Institution (HSI) plan, creating potential
Hispanic students. Eligible institutions must
work streams that would lead to Latino
maintain 25 percent or higher Latino student
[ 2016] Nevada State College [39]
“It’s so important to me to serve the community we’re in and that becomes more true each year.” – Dr. Shantal Marshall
enrollment for two consecutive years. Once
students and their families go through. As
an institution has received this designation,
a Latina and the first in her family to attend
it becomes eligible to apply for various
college, her subsequent research has studied
grant opportunities, including the areas
the way that individuals construct their
of educational and research equipment,
concept of race through their consumption
curriculum development, enhancement of
of popular culture and how it affects their
community outreach, faculty development,
understanding of identity, inequality, and
renovation and campus facilities, student
stereotypes. “When I interviewed at NSC, I was
support services, and student scholarships and
really excited to learn of the pursuit of the HSI
grants. Funding prospects made available
designation,” she comments. “It’s so important
to HSIs through the DOE are intended for
to me to serve the community we’re in, and
institutionally based educational opportunities
that becomes more true each year.”
that lead to academic success for Latino and low-income students.
Focusing on how environments affect students is one of Marshall’s passions. “If
With this HSI goal in mind, one of the first
we can make students feel safe within their
activities the task force participated in was
identities, we can really help them reach
the coordination of a workshop and luncheon
their potential. Traditional colleges were built
with representatives from NSC and the Las
many years ago and for a different type
Vegas Latin Chamber of Commerce (LCC) in
of student,” she notes. “If you can build a
August 2012. The LCC committed to working
college for today’s needs instead of try to
with NSC to create a strategic plan leading
change one that has existed for a long time,
toward the HSI recognition.
you might be able to come up with models that other schools will try to emulate. It’s not
Fernández points out that the needs of
just the HSI designation that we’re after; it’s
Latino students and the obstacles they
that combined with the development of a
often face are a big topic when it comes to
new kind of campus.”
helping them get through higher education. “We need to think about the students and
Echoing Fernández’s comments about families
their families holistically,” she notes. “When
not always understanding higher education,
we talk about retaining a student, we really
she recalls how her family missed her and
need to talk about retaining an entire family,
couldn’t comprehend why she would want
not just the individual. Many of these students
to go away to school. As an undergraduate
are the first to attend college, and they may
at the University of California, Los Angeles,
face negative feedback from their families
Marshall became involved with an academic
because they aren’t working ‘hard’ in the
advancement program on campus, which
traditional sense that they have known. It’s
ended up serving as her “safe place”
very important to embrace and understand
during those years. “Having that community
these situations.” Fernández explains
of students who were really similar to me
that NSC is also working with a variety of
helped immensely. I feel like I flourished as an
community organizations to become a
undergrad because of that connection.”
trusted resource for local families. Fernández shares that another related
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Dr. Shantal Marshall, assistant professor of
area where NSC leads in this aspect is
psychology, uniquely understands what these
that it’s currently the only Nevada higher-
education institution to offer scholarships to undocumented students. Through TheDream.US project, DREAMers (DREAM stands for Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) are eligible for scholarships that lead to career-ready degrees. She notes that Nevada has one of the highest populations of undocumented people in the nation. This fact obviously affects Latinos, although not all who are undocumented are of that culture. This spring, after nearly four years of working toward the HSI designation, it was announced that NSC had completed the first step: The college’s Latino population had reached 25 percent of total enrollment. To celebrate the milestone, NSC hosted a luncheon for the LCC in April at its newly expanded campus. Featured speakers included Patterson, Latin Chamber of Commerce President Peter Guzman, and Glenn Christenson, former chief financial officer of Station Casinos and past chair of the Nevada State College Foundation. According to Patterson, “We have always worked to serve a diverse student population that is reflective of our community. It is important for the economic development of our region for the growing Latino population to be successful in higher education. Working toward this designation is a huge step in advancing this mission to benefit our students and the community at large.” To sum it up, Fernández asks, “How can we change the culture and teach, serve, and embrace our students and their families differently? We are doing our best to help, as this is our state’s future.”
To learn more about HSIs, please visit http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/ idues/hsidivision.html
Students from a variety of backgrounds are finding their collegiate home at NSC.
[ 2016] Nevada State College [41]
RAISING NSC’s comprehensive campaign exceeds goal, “I am proud of what the Foundation has accomplished in the last three years, and I am looking forward to a further impact of financial initiatives in the next two years.” – David Grant
Nevada State College’s (NSC) Comprehensive Campaign exceeded its $10 million fundraising goal by more than $7 million. The efforts were led by Nevada State College Foundation (NSCF) Campaign Chair and former Board Chair Glenn Christenson, with additional coordination and assistance from members of the NSCF, NSC leadership, community leadership, and Diane Carlson, CEO of 1-2-1 Philanthropic Services. As Christenson told the Las Vegas ReviewJournal in June 2016, “It’s an endorsement of the work that’s being done at Nevada State. I think the success of the campaign is also a reflection that our economy is coming back. People feel more comfortable making donations, and they like the things that we’re doing at Nevada State.” “Our Nevada State College Foundation board members are the engine powering our fundraising efforts, and they aren’t slowing
[42] black [+] gold ANNUAL
THE BAR raising record amount down anytime soon,” said NSC President
financial initiatives in the next two years,” says
Bart Patterson in the June 29 issue of the
David Grant, current board chair of the NSCF.
Las Vegas Sun. “Already, the foundation is making a huge direct impact on our
Additionally, the Office of Institutional
community by providing a traditionally
Advancement (OIA) is in the beginning
underserved population with an exceptional
stages of financial initiatives focused on a
education on a beautiful campus.”
new building for the School of Education, supporting new and existing academic
Funds from the Comprehensive Campaign
programs, and growing endowed
will be utilized to assist in the financing of
scholarships. The OIA also oversees the
two recently added buildings on campus —
development of an alumni board and the
the Rogers Student Center and the Nursing,
continuation and expansion of the Arts &
Science & Education Building — and of
Culture Advisory Council and the new Friends
student scholarships and the expansion of
of the Library organization.
academic programs. Recently, the NSCF launched its “50 for $2M” scholarship campaign. Announced and ratified at its May 2016 board meeting, this initiative has already raised more than $700,000 in cash and pledges to date. “I am proud of what the foundation has accomplished in the last three years, and I am looking forward to a further impact of
For more information about giving current and future gifts to Nevada State College, please contact Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Dr. Russell Raker, at Russell.Raker@nsc.edu or other members of the OIA staff. Office: (702) 992-2377 | Fax: (702) 992-2351
[ 2016] Nevada State College [43]
2016 ALUMNI SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
Ashley Hewitt
Tobias Torres
Ainsley Campbell
Christin Hodges
Brian Trenholm
Vicky Carreno
Robyn Holmes
Melissa Waite
Valerie Cawley
Jewell Hopwood
Angelina Welch
Connie Cheng
Alexandria Alo
Stacey Inouye
Nicole Whaley
Jennifer Cherry
Cara Andersen
Megan Jones
Kelly Wolthers
Linda Cirillo
Michele Arnold
Alexandria Kinney
Brittany Clark
Kristen Arsenault
Allysa Kinzler
Breanna Ballard Barbara Bassett
Samantha Lohmeyer
Alexia Beeler
Lindsay Mann
William Bell
Justin Mastrangioli
SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS & SCIENCES
Travis Coles
Daniel-marie Lebel
Karen Berrios
Mysha Mcclain
Ariel Borgman
Amanda Jean Mckelvey
Ashley Boulet
Kristina Mehaffey
Marja Brooks
Zoey Moreau
Katheryn Brown
Natalie Ogan
Paige Buchanan
Nancy Olson
Mariah Busch
Jennifer Palmer
Stephanie Castellano
John Pattillo
Tara Clark
Gabrielle Rabb
Aaron Clay
Alexandra Reza
Laura Comstock
Tisha Rice
Taylor Conley
Cassandra Romero
Kendra Cope
Shari Ross
Bobbi Curry
Victoria Sanchez
Tracey D’angelo
Briana Sand
Denise Davis
Alicia Sechrist
Courtney Donnelly
Shayna Segal
Christine Dye
Neoscary Sequeira
Jennifer Estes
Andrew Shealy
Tammy Fogg
Jesse Smith
Shelby Gebhart
Corrina Spidell
Diana Godinez
Raquel Stout
William Hall
Taylor Templeton
June Hamel
Rebecca Thompson
[44] black [+] gold ANNUAL
Julianne Adams Ariadne Alagar Rocky Alagar Rachel Anderson Elaine Arandia-Kellerman Kristen Arsenault Fatimah Askia Nicole Barabas Danette Barber Alezon Anne Bautista Christopher Bautista Christina Bemiller Shannon Bendrick Jacqueline Bermudez Brandi Blue Johnathan Box Kristi Bradley Andrea Bravo Matthew Brew Natalia Brooks Ashley Brown Jasmin Brownell Angela Cajo
Quinetta Crawford Camille Cruz Sergio Cruz-Cardenas John Culliver Robert Dawidowicz Christina Delanty Arben Dema Maria Dominguez George Donelson Erin Doyle Brandon Durham Brianna Egan Carol Eklund Bonnie Erbe Brenda Favela-Belmonte Donna Feliz-Barrows Katie Fese Mary Ann Foreman Samantha Foreman Floyd Freiburger Rebecca Fung Katherin Gabriel Angela Garbarino Juana Garcia Eddy Garrido Robyn-lea Gentile Angel Gomez Jodi Gonz
LISTINGS Silvia Gonzalez
Christie Lee
Nierada Nititadakul
Kirsten Schwarz
Christina Gordon
Cindy Lee
Jazmin Nonato
Nicole Scollard
Shaylah Gray
Marissa Leininger
Deborah Nunes
Shayna Segal
Stephanie Grossman
Gary Lenkeit
Joshua Oppong
Krista Segura
Monsherad Gutierrez
Jessica Lilley
Edward Ordonez
Lynnette Seimears
Steve Haas
Lisa Linnell
Veronica Paglio
Justin Semana
Paige Hall
Kristin Little
Nathaniel Pallasigue
Samantha Shaffer
Maria Harbalieva
Yolonda Littleton
Summer Parker
Margaret Sharp
Daniel Hart
Yolanda Lizardo
Domitilo Peralta
Andrew Shealy
Jean-Pierre HasenmayerTheodorou
Jeffrey Lomprey
Rajeev Peterson
Tiffany Shorter
Leanna Lomprey
Cristina Petty
Elizabeth Simon
Sierra Lomprey
Zandra Polard
Ginnea Smith
Ysibel Ludwig
Jessica Prentice
Preeti Sodha
Monnie Luna
Karen Purdy
Jennifer Solano
Mariela Maltez
Michael Rabb-Brumfield
Christine Soler
Tamara Marino
Karmjit Raju
Uilani Sonoda
Jessica Martinez
Noyan Ramazani
Kayla Soriano
Gabrielle Mccormick
Tricia Ramos
Jacob Sorrentino
Ashlie Mceuen
Michele Rey-Morales
Hannah St. John
Alexandria Mcginty
Jennifer Rider
Ronald Stanfield
Destiny Mckeever
Joel Rios
Andrew Stewart
Ivan Mejia
Jennifer Rivas
Richard Summers
Jorge Mejia Mejia
Rosenda Rivas
Brenda Swaim
Alejandra Melchor-Morales
Joshua Rivera
Tito Tatis Talero
Jeffrey Metcalf
Laura Robles
Mary Rozelle Tolentino
Diana Miranda
Dymonde Rodgers
Adriana Torres
Brenton Montgomery
Kari Rodowick-Sandrini
Johnathon Toston
Nicole Moore
Monica Rosquist-Schiffman
Shannon Vozar
Zoey Moreau
Nicolas Rubel
Cassandra Wagner
Matthew Morgan
Emily Ruddell
Chad Warner
Jasmin Mulready
Alexandra Saenz
Emily Waters
Aura Munguia
Hossai Safar
Amanda Wellman
Donna Nellis
Elizabeth Sanchez-Mariscal
Nicole Whaley
Alyse Nelsen
Marshawna Sanford
Valorie White-lystrup
Kristin Nelson
Neil Sarahs
Shante Willis
Joshua Neri
Farrah Schrader
Vyshika Willis
Talisha Haywood Brendon Heinrich Tiffany Henderson Andrew Holbert sheneka holder Denise Hooks Deidra Hufnagle Alicia Hunter Velmin Husic Heather Ibarra Jessica Jersey Amy Jivan Alvin Jules Kevin Kanowitz Tyler Kaplan Kaitlin Kasmier Greg King Bethany Kline Stephanie Koehler Gary Kofford Sarah Konsten Kristen Lalli Amy Lamouroux Justin Landerman Alisia Leavitt
[ 2016] Nevada State College [45]
Kyle Wilson
Jeanne Cosgrove
Mariya Kolibarova
Mariana Peterson
Lawrence Wolak
Melanie Crowley
Judith Kuria
Preston Peterson
Wendy Wood
Kevin Dangler
Katharine Kussell
Katherine Pfeifer
Chelsea Woodall
Kenia Delatorre
Kelsey Landis
Brian Phares
Mary Woods
Megan Dempsey
Norman Vincent Lapitan
Rachel Pike
Halimah Wooten
Jennifer Dove
Maggie Laurencell
Myacinth Pineda
Cassandra Zavala
Melanie Elefante
Rhiannon Laviolette
Jennifer Piscitelli
Alexander Zemla
Mary Elez
April Leblanc
Agripina Polushkin
Susana Zepeda
Edgar Escobar
Peggy Lee
Robyn Preston
Caitlan Feil
Jacqueline Likert
Sherry Pulido
SCHOOL OF NURSING
Preston Felts
Crystal Lippert
Diana Rodriguez
Emily Fitzgerald
Rosemarie Lizardo
Christina Sabado
Lidia Free
Edelaine Lucas
Samantha Sanford
Melinda Galacgac
Stephen Luong
Megan Saum
Kritchadaphorn Acosta
Nicole Garland
Eden Machado
Nicole Semana
Maria Gina Agnir
Alena Gething
Erin Madsen
Maria Senda
Rafilya Ali
Jessica Gnadt
Marlo Jane Mangalino
Rilwan Shoyombo
Carla Alvarado
Nancy Gonzalez
Kristina Martins
Celeste Simmons
Ulises Arias
Rosie Gonzalez
Laurie Mccolley
Alexis Stevens
Armando Avelar
Danielle Graziano
Kenneth Meier
Candace Stevenson
Jennifer Baca
Megan Gregory
Milen Minchev
Harry Tate
Kristen Bagg
Asher Griffith
Lisa Moss
Rachel Tielemans
Erica Bean
Tessa Haas
Mayra Moya
Jennifer Tingle
Betty Beck
Lesly Hansen
Alicia Mujica
Leah Torvinen
Nayeli Bejarano
Debbie Harper
Angelica Musumeci
Mindy Triola
Savannah Benyo
Felicia Haywood
Jeffrey Nelson
Ambrosia Turner
Crystal Brown
Feryal Hemmati
Jude Nkwanga
Cherilyn Visarra
Yamila Cardone
Chelsee Henderson
Victoria Novack
Blair Vivirito
Katelyn Carnahan
Jenjira Hendrix
Doreen Mae Oberes
Angelica Vo
Jennifer Carvalho
Jill Holsclaw
Gina Olson
Hanh Vu
Daizy Chan-Kumpa
Julie Hussey
Brittany O’Neill
Autumn Wake
Tetyana Chernyuk
Jenny Johnson
Tiffany O’Neill
Heather Wickware
Patti Chervitz
Samantha Jones
Kenneth O’Rourke
Bryan Wiederholt
Linda Cirillo
Lina Juzenaite
Alyssa Palmer
Amy Wisniewski
Jacqueline Colli
Monika King
Azita Pascoe
Marta Womble
Lorna Cosenza
Hannah Klug
Anquanita Peterson
Shauna Wood
The NSC Office of Institutional Research defines the Class of 2016 as “graduates with degrees conferred in the Summer 2015, Fall 2015, and Spring 2016 semesters.” To provide updates to the Office of Alumni Relations, please call (702) 992-2370.
[46] black [+] gold ANNUAL
Nevada State College FOUNDATION TRUSTEES* ALFREDO ALONSO Principal Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie, LLP Reno, NV MIKE BENJAMIN CEO & President Benjamin Enterprises Reno, NV MICHAEL BOLOGNINI Market Vice President Cox Communications, Inc. Las Vegas, NV TIM BROOKS Owner/General Manager Emerald Island Casino Henderson, NV HANNAH BROWN Civic & Community Leader Las Vegas, NV JEFFREY BURR President & Attorney at Law Jeffrey Burr Ltd. Henderson, NV DANE CARTER President/Building Division Sletten Construction of Nevada, Inc. Las Vegas, NV & Great Falls, MT GLENN CHRISTENSON Managing Director Velstand Investments, LLC Henderson, NV SHERRY COLQUITT Civic & Community Leader Las Vegas, NV & Durango, CO TERESSA CONLEY President & CEO, Rose de Lima Campus Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican Las Vegas, NV THOMAS CORDY Retired Business Executive Las Vegas, NV & Atlanta, GA
DANIEL GERETY Founder & Managing Partner, Gerety & Associates, Certified Public Accountants Las Vegas, NV JAMES GIBSON The Former Mayor of Henderson, NV Attorney, Civic & Community Leader Henderson, NV JOHN GIBSON Retired Business Executive Civic & Community Leader Henderson, NV DAVID GRANT Attorney at Law Grant Morris Dodds Attorneys Las Vegas, NV THE HONORABLE ANDY HAFEN Mayor, City of Henderson Henderson, NV ELAINE HODGSON President & CEO Incredible Technologies, Inc Las Vegas, NV & Arlington Heights, IL DALINE JANUIK Executive Vice President & Regional President, Bank of Nevada Henderson, NV MARILYN JENTZEN Principal, Innovative Impact Consulting & Education Advocate Las Vegas, NV ALISON KASNER Educator, Civic & Community Leader Henderson, NV
BART PATTERSON President, Nevada State College Henderson, NV RICHARD PERKINS President, The Perkins Company Las Vegas, NV SCOTT RAYMER Chief Executive Officer, CRB Auto Las Vegas, NV & Orange County, CA CHARLES RINEHART Retired Bank Executive Civic & Community Leader Las Vegas, NV & Orange Country, CA TONY SANCHEZ, III Senior Vice President/Government & Community Strategy, NV Energy Las Vegas, NV DAN SHAW President, Shaw Jones Partners, LLC, & Integra Financial Services Las Vegas, NV & Logan, UT DAN STEWART Vice President for Development Gardner Company of Nevada Las Vegas, NV & Salt Lake City, UT WILLIAM WORTMAN Principal Cannery Casino Resorts, LLC Las Vegas, NV LIAISON/RECORDER J. RUSSELL RAKER, III, PhD, ACFRE Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement Nevada State College & Foundation Henderson, NV
WILLIAM “BILL” MARTIN Retired Bank Executive Civic & Community Leader Henderson, NV KRISTI OVERGAARD Executive Vice President of Awesomeness Supernap/Switch Las Vegas, NV
For more information on the NSC Foundation, please visit nsc.edu/giving *Trustees listed in alphabetical order
[ 2016] Nevada State College [47]
Welcome NEW FACULTY AND STAFF Nevada State College is excited to welcome several new faculty and staff members to the NSC family. This list reflects faculty and staff members hired between December 2015 and November 2016.
FACULTY
Cristina Caputo
Paige Hall
Dr. Susan Bonnell
Director of Academic Success Center
Student Program Coordinator
Michael Carpenter
Phil Lamotte
Personnel Technician I
Student Activities Manager
Leilani Carreno
Munyiga Lumumba
Director of Nepantla Program
Assistant Director of TRIO Upward Bound
Renee Clebanoff
Erin Matthews
Administrative Assistant III
Recruiter
Kristina Collins
Vincent Nava
Student Program Coordinator
Recruiter
Darlene Conwell
Briana Pitkin
Student Program Coordinator
Recruiter
Camille Cruz
Angela Poole
Accounting Assistant I
Budget Analyst
Kristina Dearing
Cynthia Rispante
Administrative Assistant IV
Senior Accountant
Johnny Dinh
Robin Smith
Library Technician I
Director of TRIO-SSS
Damon Ford
Danelle Sundell
Maintenance Repair Worker II
Administrative Assistant II
Andreana Franco
Marcos Uribe
Advisor/Counselor
IT Technician IV
Angela Freeman
DebraAnn Valdez
Advisor/Counselor
Administrative Assistant III
J. Alvarez
Dr. Christopher Garrett
Nicole Wesley
Maintenance Repair Worker II
Director of the Center for Teaching &
Director of Career Services
Associate Professor of Nursing Zarah Borines Lecturer of Nursing Donna Enrico Lecturer of Nursing Dr. Cecelia Fernan Assistant Professor of Nursing Darlene Haff Lecturer of Sociology Maya Hobscheid Librarian Angelo Larocco Lecturer of Nursing Rachel Miller Lecturer of Psychology Roberta Miranda Lecturer of Counseling Dr. Laura Rosales Lagarde Assistant Professor of Environmental Science Nataliya Svelmoe Lecturer of Nursing STAFF
Learning Excellence Danette Barber Student Program Coordinator
Elenis Wong Ellen Guerra Director of Marketing & Communications
Valerie Bugni Director of Partnership & Field Experiences
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Advisor/Counselor
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INTRODUCING NSC’s first club sport
To learn more about the NSC Rowing program, please visit NSC.EDU/ROWING