Stark State Review Summer 2006 Edition

SUMMER 2006

WHAT’S INSIDE z HVAC program leads northeast Ohio in training

z Business technologies receive national accreditation z Honda PACT joins automotive technology program z Enrollment records set for spring and summer z Commencement 2006

z 2006 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

A PUBLICATION OF STARK STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY FOR ALUMNI, FRIENDS OF THE COLLEGE AND THE COMMUNITY

Stark State’s HVAC program leads northeast Ohio in commercial and residential training See page 6

STARK STATE REVIEW

President’s Message

by John O’Donnell, President, Stark State College You have heard a great deal in recent years about the continued and rapid enrollment growth at Stark State College. While we take pride and satisfaction in our tremendous growth, we have an even greater sense of satisfaction in meeting our mission of degree completion by our students. Each year, more and more of our students complete their degrees, and some complete two degrees!

At May commencement, we awarded 550 associate degrees to 533 students. Combined with the January 2006 graduation where 179 associate degrees were awarded to 176 students, Stark State awarded a record 729 degrees during the 2005-06 academic year. We also take great pride in our Career Services Office report that over 93% of our graduates are employed upon graduation.

Clearly, our growth and the employment of our graduates is a result of community need for associate degree training and the need of businesses for skilled workers. Highlighted in the Stark State Review are two examples of new academic programs and certificate partnerships.

Our Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Program (HVAC) has expanded from a focus on the residential component of the industry to the commercial area also. This would not have been possible without the donation of equipment by the Akron-based Air Enterprises. This equipment has made possible the training of Stark State students as well as those currently working in the field who need retraining on specific aspects of new HVAC technology. In addition, other donations of equipment have led to the Stark State HVAC program leading the way in HVAC training in northeast Ohio.

We are also pleased to welcome our partner American Honda and its Professional Automotive Career Training, also known as Honda PACT. Corporate automotive partnerships and educational programs, such as Honda PACT, have fueled an enrollment growth of nearly 600% in Stark State’s automotive technology program since 2000 and have been the driving force behind our outstanding, state-of-the art Automotive Technology Center.

The PACT program combines the requirements of the College’s automotive technology degree program with those of American Honda to provide students with marketable skills for the workforce.

As we reinforce the commitments of both American Honda and Stark State to educational and economic partnerships, it is important to note that Honda has been a committed economic partner with the state of Ohio for more than 25 years. Honda’s economic impact on Ohio has been extraordinary and we are very pleased that Honda is also a strong education partner with Stark State.

Such business/corporate/academic partnerships, as those with American Honda and Air Enterprises, are necessary to build a strong workplace and ensure the economic vitality of our community. Several weeks ago, we hosted the Ohio Fuel Cell Symposium and featured our recently completed Fuel Cell Prototyping Center. You will hear much more about the Fuel Cell Prototyping Center, and the partnerships involved in that project, in the next issue of the Stark State Review.

From growing the workplace to business/college partnerships, we take pride in our faculty’s real-world knowledge of their academic areas and are extremely appreciative of the value, support and collaboration of our business/corporate partners.

The Stark State Review is published for alumni, friends of the College and the community. Story ideas and articles are welcome from alumni, staff, faculty, administrators and friends of the College. Please send your correspondence to Stark State Review, 6200 Frank Ave. N.W., North Canton, OH 44720.

Administration John O’Donnell, Ph.D., President Thomas A. Chiappini Vice President for Business and Finance Lawrence M. Cox, Ph.D. Provost Para M. Jones, Vice President for Advancement, Planning, and College/Community Relations John J. Kurtz, Vice President for Information Technology and Administrative Services

Board of Trustees Fonda P. Williams II, Chair Christopher J. Maurer, Vice Chair Michael J. Hill Penny L. Sherrod-Campanizzi William Strohmenger Michael Thomas, D.D.S.

Foundation Board of Directors Ron Wilkof, President Paul Feaser, Vice President Charles West, Treasurer Nancy McPeek, Secretary Hortense Bobbitt Donald Colaner Gene DeChellis Sally Efremoff Irving Gordon, D.O. Monica Gwin Lynn Hamilton George Lemon William Luntz, Emeritus John J. McGrath, Ed.D. John O’Donnell, Ph.D. James Powell, Emeritus Timothy Putman Ahmed Sabe, M.D. Terrence Seeberger Mary Jo Shannon Slick Larry Smerglia Shari Strange William Strohmenger Thomas Strouble Grace Wakulchik Jeffery Walters Frank Weinstock, M.D. Frank Wittman Steve Yoder Editor Irene Lewis Motts Director of Marketing/Communications Graphic Design/Photography Beth Klein Graphic Designer Editorial Assistant/Photography Sean Rutherford Web/Communications Specialist Editorial Assistant Cathy Spino

ON THE COVER Don Ball and Jerry Klinesmith (front) are very pleased with the HVAC program’s custom-built air handling unit, donated by Air Enterprises of Akron. See pages 6 and 7 for more details on the growth of the HVAC program.

Stark State College is committed to equal opportunity for all and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, age, disability or veteran’s status.

INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT NEWS New appointments made to Stark State Foundation Board TIM PUTNAM President of Putman Properties, Inc. and a licensed Ohio Real Estate Broker, he is also a practicing attorney specializing in real estate titles, contracts and leases. As president of Putman Properties, Inc., a real estate investment and management firm, he has worked with such Fortune 500 Companies as The Timken Company, Folgers Coffee, Martin-Marrieta, Siemens-Allens and others. Putnam currently serves on the boards of Canton Tomorrow, Inc., a community organization focusing on downtown Canton redevelopment; the Canton Cultural Center for the Arts; and the North Canton Medical Foundation. He earned his juris doctorate degree from the University of Akron.

LARRY L. SMERGLIA Senior vice president – investments for UBS’s Financial Services, Inc., he heads UBS’s Smerglia, D’Anniballe & Houston Financial Group in Canton.

His career in finance spans more than 30 years. Each financial advisor on the team advises clients professionally in the areas of financial, investment, charitable giving and/or estate planning strategies. Smerglia is a 1990 Malone College graduate with a bachelor of arts degree in management and serves on Malone’s Business Advisory Board. He also is treasurer of Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio and chairs their finance committee. Other community activities include: board member, Copeland Oaks Retirement Community in Sebring; board of governors, Oaks Foundation in Sebring; board member, Canton Children’s Learning Center for Children with Dyslexia; and committee member, 2006 United Way Campaign.

About the Stark State College Foundation - The Stark State College Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization formed in 1986 to seek, receive, manage and distribute funds, equipment, property and other contributions for the benefit of the students and programs of Stark State College. The Foundation plays a crucial role in helping the College provide excellent educational services to the Greater Stark County community.

Stark State Foundation announces Changing Lives…Building Our Community

The Stark State Foundation is planning a major campaign to raise funds to help the College achieve its mission, vision and strategic goals, which are based on serving community and regional needs.

Over 700 key stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, business and community leaders and alumni, provided input into Stark State’s 2005-2007 strategic plan. The strategic plan emphasizes the need for the College to continue growing and expanding in response to the community’s and region’s needs for postsecondary education, particularly in high-demand areas such as health care, information technology and business.

“Stark State’s enrollment has been growing by approximately 10% each year since 2001,” said Para M. Jones, vice president for advancement, planning and college relations. “We expect growth to continue, based on the region’s changing economy, which is driving demand for postsecondary education; the College’s strategic goals; and Stark State’s growing appeal to value-conscious students.”

Jones said the Changing Lives… Building Our Community campaign addresses the College’s three greatest needs and goals: • Health and Sciences Project – The proposed Health and Sciences Building will provide needed space to expand existing and add new health and sciences programs and courses, such as biotechnology. The College and Foundation are seeking $1.6 million in local support, including a naming donor for the Health and Sciences Building, to complement $5.4 million in state and local funding for this project.

• Scholarship Endowment Project – By establishing more endowed scholarships, Stark State can achieve its mission and strategic goal of providing access to students who otherwise might not be able to afford college. The College and Foundation are seeking to add at least $1 million to the current scholarship endowment.

• Business and Entrepreneurship Project – The need for this project has grown out of increased demand for and growth in business programs and the regional focus on entrepreneurship as a stimulus for economic development. The College and Foundation will seek state, federal and local funding to accomplish this goal.

For more information about the Changing Lives…Building Our Community campaign, please call Para Jones, 330-494-6170, ext. 4258.

The future vision for the new Health and Sciences Project.

Community leaders spearhead campaign Stark State President John O’Donnell, Stark State Foundation board members and Advancement Office staff are developing plans and strategies to attract local support to complement state and federal funding for the capital campaign. The following Foundation board members are providing overall campaign leadership: Paul Feaser, Nancy McPeek, Tom Strouble, Chuck West, Frank Wittman and George Lemon. Co-chairs of the Health and Sciences Project are Grace Wakulchik and Bill Strohmenger; Foundation board member Dr. Ahmed Sabe is assisting with the project. Ron Wilkof and Nancy McPeek are co-chairs of the Scholarship Endowment Project. George Lemon will co-chair the Business and Entrepreneurship Project with other volunteers. Alumni and friends of the College who would like to become involved in the campaign should contact Para Jones at 330-494-6170, Ext. 4258.

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AROUNDCAMPUS

Honda PACT joins Stark State automotive technology programs

Brian Moore, industry education coordinator for American Honda, stepped to the podium at the Honda PACT Launch in a room filled with Stark State College administrators, automotive technology students and faculty, and announced that the selection of Stark State as a Honda PACT site was an easy one.

“We looked at several schools in the area. It became clear early on that Stark State College was where we wanted to be,” Moore said. He added that the following factors played a large role in the company’s decision: • the quality of the educational programs offered at Stark State • the professors/instructors in the automotive technology programs • the support from the administration • the resources committed from the College • the reputation of Stark State’s automotive technology program among other manufacturers “There is a strong commitment from the automotive technology program and the administration, and that is important to the success of Honda PACT,” Moore added.

American Honda PACT – Professional Automotive Career Training – provides specific Honda technical knowledge in a fast-track curriculum. Hands-on learning, with Honda’s advance technology and products, prepares students for employment at Honda dealerships.

Ken Buie, programs coordinator for Stark State’s automotive technologies, coordinated the Honda PACT Launch and explained that the program may be pursued as an associate degree or as a certificate of completion. “And, the flexibility of the Honda PACT program makes the Honda-specific classes available to past automotive graduates also,” Buie added.

As a Honda PACT site, Honda supplies Stark State with vehicles, state-of-theart training materials and curriculum. Stark State trains Honda PACT faculty by sending them to American Honda facilities so that they can stay abreast of Honda-specific technologies.

“This is a real value for dealers; this is a factory for quality technicians,” said Brian Solenthaler, DPSM, American Honda. “To be a master technician, they need to be 75% trained on Honda modules. Stark State students will be 65-70% trained on those modules.”

“With 43 Honda and Acura dealers in the northeast Ohio and Columbus areas, the Honda PACT program at Stark State can have a profound influence on the professional training of technicians, service managers and other workers needed by these dealers. The combination of classroom, labs and on-the-job experiences ensures that students in the Honda PACT program will be well-prepared for their future pursuits following graduation,” said Stark State College President John O’Donnell.

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Brian Moore, industry education coordinator for American Honda, shown at left and center above, strongly believes that Stark State College is a great location for Honda PACT. With Moore above are, Randy Bennett, left, department chair of automotive technology and Ken Buie, programs coordinator for automotive technologies.

Attorney Halm appointed to Stark State College Board Attorney Jeffrey A. Halm, managing partner of the Canton office of Buckingham, Doolittle and Burroughs, LLP, has been appointed to the Stark State College board of trustees, filling the term through August 2006 of former board member Randall Hunt, who resigned citing professional commitments.

A Canton resident, Halm is also a member of the law firm’s board of managers and was recognized by his peers as one of Ohio’s Super Lawyers in the 2004 and 2005 Cincinnati Magazine. He is vice president of Certified Title Agency, Inc. and title insurance agent for three other agencies.

Halm received his bachelor’s degree from Denison University in Granville, Ohio and his juris doctorate from The Ohio State University College of Law. In addition to the Stark State board, Halm is also on the board of directors for the American Heart Association, Jackson-Belden Chamber of Commerce, and Jackson Township Rotary. He is a member of the board of trustees for the Canton Symphony Orchestra, a Stark Community Foundation committee member, and serves on the advisory board and endowment fund committee of the Boy Scouts, Buckeye Council.

Pinwheels for Prevention

Thirty Stark State early childhood education students, and their young helpers, planted pinwheels along Frank Ave. as part of the county-wide Pinwheels for Prevention program, designed to increase awareness about child abuse and neglect in Stark County. As part of Child Abuse/Child Neglect Awareness Month, 2,675 pinwheels were planted at sites across Stark County.

Each pinwheel represented one incidence of child abuse or neglect reported in the county in 2004.

“Activities such as this prepare our students as advocates for young children and as partners in community outreach”, said Carrilyn Long, department chair of early childhood education.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day held at Stark State

Stark State hosted and co-sponsored Stark County's first year of participation in the global celebration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day. GIS Day is held each year during the National Geographic Society’s Geography Awareness Week and is intended to educate and inform the public about advances in GIS technology and its many uses.

“GIS is the wave of the future for Stark County,” said Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez. “GIS will not only save lives, but it will also assist in approximately 80% of all local government office duties.

I plan to utilize this tool by developing neighborhood maps to assist in appraising property.”

Nearly 20 companies and agencies were on-hand to promote and demonstrate their GIS-related materials and projects.

The Stark State engineering technology division utilized the event as an opportunity to promote the College and the division with informational flyers and several software demonstrations.

James Schell, GIS Supervisor for the Stark County Auditor’s office, describes how the county is using GIS technology to map out property lines, streets and water lines throughout the county.

Spring and summer enrollments set records, satellite centers continue to grow

Stark State College’s rapid enrollment growth since 2000 continues, with enrollment records on main campus of a 20% increase for summer session over last summer’s headcount and an 11% increase for spring semester 2006 over spring 2005 headcount.

In addition, satellite centers in Alliance and Carrollton showed 400% growth and 100% growth, respectively, from spring 2005 to spring 2006. With the addition of a dedicated site in Alliance, the community responded with enrollment growing from 24 students to 104 students. Classes in Carrollton, offered at three different locations, experienced an enrollment increase from 35 to 71. Interest continues to grow at the Downtown Canton Satellite Center at the Timken Campus where students are primarily post-secondary students, but a marketing/recruiting effort is underway to attract more downtown Canton residents and business people for classes.

“The strong growth of Stark State College, both on main campus and at our satellite centers, is due to the quality of our faculty and of our market-driven associate degree programs, which create high demand for Stark State graduates among employers,” said Dr. John O’Donnell, president of Stark State College. “We The Alliance Satellite Center debuted in continue to have over 93% of our graduates January at 1237 State Street. employed upon graduation.”

According to O’Donnell, the continuous improvement of existing programs and the addition of new programs are vital to the College’s success and make Stark State College one of the most attractive colleges in the area. Exciting additions to the College’s academic program include: cyber security and computer forensics technology, biotechnology, and a fuel cell technology track through the mechanical engineering technology program.

Stark State’s affordable tuition of $127 per semester hour also makes Stark State attractive to local students and families, as well as the College’s wide range of scholarships and financial aid programs.

U.S. Representative Ralph Regula keynotes Stark State College EnviroFest ‘06 U.S. Rep. Ralph Regula (R-OH) was the keynote speaker at Stark State College’s EnviroFest 2006 “Northeast Ohio: It’s Our Home Too”. The day-long event provided businesses and individuals with the most current information related to environmental, health and safety issues. Congressman Regula praised those at the event for their efforts in providing northeast Ohio with a clean, safe environment that is attractive to drawing new business and industry to the area.

“We take so much for granted,” Regula told the crowd. “But it’s you people who are so extremely important in terms of the environment. Without quality water and sewage treatment systems, business and industry will not relocate here.” Regula’s praise was directed to the nearly 100 businesses and individuals in attendance who work in environmental areas or deal with environmental issues daily.

William Skowronski, District Chief for the northeast Ohio office of the Ohio EPA, was the luncheon speaker. An exhibitors area showcased products and services related to environmental health and safety issues.

EnviroFest ‘06 was made possible through a grant from the Stark-Tuscarawas-Wayne Joint Solid Waste Management District, with the support of area businesses and organizations.

Bob Collins, coordinator of the environmental, health and safety technology program, headed the EnviroFest ’06 committee.

Pictured above: Congressman Ralph Regula addresses EnviroFest ’06 participants.

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MAINFEATURE

Stark State’s HVAC program leads Ohio in commercial and residential training; new labs and equipment donations drive program’s expansion Equipment Donors Custom-built air handling unit (AHU), 30 tons with supply and return fan, steam, chilled water, dx coils and variable frequency drives donated by Air Enterprises

Direct Digital Controls provided by Automated Logic and Comfort Controls

Carrier low pressure steam boiler donated by Refrigeration Sales Corp. (one of many items)

25-ton water chiller donated by Carrier (on right)

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Stark State’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) program has emerged as northeast Ohio’s leader in commercial and residential HVAC training, thanks to a newly-renovated lab space and nearly $500,000 worth of donated equipment.

Between 2003 and 2005, HVAC enrollment ballooned from approximately 25 students, to nearly 100 students. This enrollment growth in combination with requests from industry partners to expand the curriculum, prompted the HVAC faculty to look for ways to revamp the program.

Already hampered by a lack of space in their existing lab, growing the program required expanding their facilities.

“Having a small area and large equipment meant that there was a limited scope of what could be taught,” said Don Ball, Stark State director of apprenticeship and industrial training and department chair of applied industrial technology. “Our new lab allows the instructors to teach and show what they know in a hands-on way, and not be restricted to showing what is in the books.”

The 3,750 square foot Advanced HVAC Applications Lab is located in the former home of the automotive technology program. The completely renovated facility consists of a main lab, a smaller HVAC electrical lab, a refrigeration lab and sheet metal lab.

The centerpiece of the main lab, and the catalyst for the entire renovation, is a custom-built air handling unit (AHU). Donated by Air Enterprises of Akron, the AHU is a complete air system which duplicates nearly any HVAC situation found in the field. The unit is more than 30 feet long and was assembled on-site in five pieces.

“Having the AHU makes our program very unique across the country,” said Jerry Klinesmith, Stark State HVAC coordinator, “We’re very fortunate to have this unit. Our students get to work on a piece of equipment most programs can only talk about. This gives our students a great edge and better prepares them for their careers.”

Klinesmith said Air Enterprises benefits from having an AHU at Stark State because it gives the company a local and convenient location for customer and employee training.

As one of only two college HVAC programs in a six-county area (Carroll, Portage, Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas and Wayne), the Stark State HVAC

MAINFEATURE

“Having the AHU makes our program

very unique across the

country…”

10-foot sheet metal brake donated by The Timken Company

— Jerry Klinesmith Stark State HVAC Coordinator program draws students with diverse backgrounds and goals. According to Ball, more than half of the students come into the program straight out of high school, while others are already in the industry and are looking to advance their skills or individuals looking to start a new career.

“Our program is not just training technicians to do repairs and installation,” Ball said. “We’re training and placing people in many areas of the HVAC industry; from manufacturing to inside sales to distribution and service. Our new labs will help us continue to expand our offerings as technology and the industry changes.”

Some of the new technologies and course offerings made possible include digital controls, hydronics, sheet metal design and application, low- and high-pressure boiler operation and stationary engineering.

The HVAC program relies heavily on industry partnerships. In addition to supplying the majority of the equipment, 12 of the 13 faculty are adjuncts who also maintain full-time jobs in the industry.

Klinesmith credits a strong faculty and solid industry relationships with helping the program continue to grow. Goals for the future include expansion of the program through additional degree options, supplying qualified workers for the entire Northeast Ohio HVAC industry and continued enrollment growth.

Fall classes, which begin in August, will use the new Advanced HVAC Applications Lab.

Reznor 157,000 BTU natural gas heater donated by Reznor, a division of Thomas Betts Corp. (one of many items donated by Reznor)

Carrier refrigeration cycle training unit donated by The Timken Company

“…Our new labs will help us continue to expand our offerings as technology and the industry changes.”

— Don Ball Stark State director of apprenticeship and industrial training and department chair of applied industrial technology

Stark State gratefully acknowledges the many supporters of the expanded HVAC program 7

AROUNDCAMPUS

Distinguished teacher and staff awards announced Nancy Stanwick - Distinguished Teacher Award 2005-06

Nancy Stanwick, clinical coordinator and instructor in the Stark State dental hygiene program, has been recognized as the 2005-2006 Distinguished Teacher Award recipient.

“Nancy has worked tirelessly to ensure student success. In the classroom, the clinic and in the community, she is dedicated to our program,” said Nichole Oocumma, director of the Stark State dental hygiene program.

“I’m proud of her and this accomplishment.”

Stanwick has an associate of applied science degree in dental hygiene from Lakeland Community College and a bachelor’s and master’s of science in technical education, teaching specialist from the University of Akron. She began her career at Stark State in the summer of 1998, teaching the College’s first course in the dental hygiene program – Head, Neck and Oral Anatomy. Stanwick became a full-time faculty member in the fall of the same year.

As a member of the Akron District Dental Hygiene Association, Stanwick served in several leadership positions including president and vice-president. She served as a student advisor with the American Dental Hygiene Association and as a member of the advisory committee for the Stark State dental hygiene program. Stanwick has also been a member of the Stark State persistence committee since 2003.

Stanwick was selected from a group of four candidates. The nomination criteria include knowledge and enthusiasm about their subject matter, strong rapport with students, and course organization and content. Nominees must be full-time faculty members and have a minimum of six semesters of service.

“It is a true honor to be awarded the Distinguished Teaching Award among the many, many distinguished teachers at Stark State College of Technology,” Stanwick said. “It is wonderful to be able to represent such a talented group of individuals.”

Patty Meeks - Distinguished Staff Award 2005-06

Stark State Career Services Specialist Patty Meeks has been honored as the recipient of the 2005-2006 Distinguished Staff Award.

Meeks was chosen from a group of seven finalists for the award. Finalists are nominated by their peers and are judged on job performance, personal qualities, customer service, service to the College, communication skills and willingness to go beyond the call of duty. Each nominee was also required to describe a manner in which they helped to advance some aspect of the College's Strategic Plan.

Hired in 1994 as a member of the Stark County Tech Prep staff, Meeks was selected as an administrative assistant in career services in 2000 and was promoted to her current position in 2005.

“Patty is most deserving of the Distinguished Staff Award,” said Rita Ridenbaugh, director of career services. “She has an enthusiastic, positive attitude and a dedication to the success of our College. I am so pleased that she is being recognized.”

Meeks is very involved with the College and the community. She has served on the faculty and staff professional endowment committee, the College 40th anniversary celebration committee in 2000, annual Grad Fair committee, and the annual recognition dinner committee. She also served as secretary/treasurer of the College Staff Association. Her community involvement includes several leadership positions with Jackson Township activity committees, serving as a liaison for Pro Football Hall of Fame Sunday Kickoff Race and as a judge for the Miss Stark County Scholarship Pageant.

“Representing the staff of Stark State College is truly an honor,” Meeks said.

“We all work daily as a collaborative team to create an atmosphere that is committed to the career success of our students.”

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Guests at the recent annual Ohio Fuel Cell Coalition Symposium visited the nearly completed Fuel Cell Prototyping Center at Stark State and were very impressed. SOFCo-EFS of Alliance will be the Center’s first tenant and will operate the Center as a preproduction facility and a bridge between research in the production of certain types of fuel cells and the sector(s) that will produce them. J Stark State College hosted over 90 dental hygiene educators at the 2006 Ohio Dental Hygiene Educators’ Conference. The keynote presentation, “That was then, this is now: What happened to my students?” was given by Trisha Nunn, RDH, MS, director of the Utah College of Dental Hygiene.

The presentation focused on the “Y generation” and the challenges dental educators face in teaching those students. Nunn stressed the importance of integrating technology in the classroom and looking at new approaches to the “old ways” of teaching. J Stark State College recently inducted 124 students into the Beta Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) the international honor society

for two-year colleges. J In addition, the Stark State PTK was recently named the

Most Distinguished Chapter at the Ohio Region Awards Convention, a distinction given to the chapter judged most outstanding in the region, based on performance in the four hallmarks of scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship; attendance at regional meetings; and regular communication with the regional office and other chapters within the region. The chapter also received certificates for achieving Five Star Status and the 2005 Pinnacle Silver Award for membership, in addition to several individual awards and recognition. J PTK member Dave Sigmund, an applied industrial technology student, was elected as the Ohio Region Akron District Representative. J PTK alumni Julie Sproul and Tonya Strahler were elected to serve as secretary and membership secretary, respectively, of the Alpha of Ohio Alumni Association.

WORTH NOTING Cherie L. Barth, advisor to the Stark State chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, received the organization’s prestigious Paragon Award given to an advisor with less than five years experience, who has enhanced the image of Phi Theta Kappa with enthusiasm, dedication, ideas, time and support to chapter officers and members. Barth is also coordinator of Stark State’s nearly 30 student organizations, providing them with assistance and support for their initiatives in order to complement the educational environment and enhance student life on campus. She earned her associate degree from Stark State and her bachelor’s degree from Malone College.

Cynthia A. Close, associate professor of administrative information technology, is the new chair of the administrative information technology department. She has taught in the department full-time since 1996 and prior to that was an adjunct for 17 years. She served as programs coordinator for the department, and was a member of the steering committee that led the business technologies division’s successful ACBSP accreditation effort this past year. She is a graduate of Stark State College, received her bachelor’s degree from West Liberty College in West Virginia and her master’s in education from the University of Akron. She also holds her court reporting instructor (CRI) certification from the National Court Reporting Association.

Deborah Evans was named 2005 Physical Therapist Assistant of the Year by the Ohio Physical Therapy Association (OPTA). Evans was nominated by Stark State clinical instructor, Dr. Edie Benner, and selected by the OPTA board of directors. Evans, a licensed physical therapy assistant since 1993, has taught at Stark State for six years. She is also secretary of the east central district of the OPTA and chair of the Physical Therapists Assistant Special Interest Group, a group that advises the American Physical Therapists Association on issues concerning the profession.

Peter Trumpower is the new director of institutional research and planning. Trumpower comes to the College from Cleveland State, where he provided institutional research and planning support to the Division of Student Affairs and Minority Affairs for six years.

In that role, he focused on student retention, assessment and institutional policy analysis. He also spent two years at the College of Wooster in the office of the vice president for academic affairs as an assessment consultant focused on data analysis of student learning outcomes within the general education curriculum. For the past seven years, Trumpower has been a statistical consultant for Suburban Medical Labs, Inc. in Cuyahoga Falls, where he provided research and data related to compliance issues. Trumpower earned a master of public administration degree from Cleveland State University, a master of arts degree in anthropology from Kent State University and a bachelor of arts degree in anthropology from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

Michael Vahila, an adjunct instructor in the massage therapy program since 1999, has graduated from the American Institute of Alternative Medicine and is now national board certified in acupuncture (NCCAOM). Vahila, a licensed massotherapist, is also a Traditional Reiki Master and certified in the St. John Method of Neuromuscular Therapy. Vahila opened an acupuncture practice in Canton and offers acupuncture at his private office as well as at the Belden Village Pain and Wellness Center.

Stark State College business technology division receives national accreditation

The business technology division of Stark State College has received accreditation by The Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) Associate Degree Board of Commissioners.

“Stark State College and our outstanding business technology faculty have shown our commitment to teaching excellence by participating in the accreditation process, achieving this important accreditation, and then continuing the process of quality improvement,” said Stark State College President John O’Donnell.

“This accreditation is evidence of Stark State’s commitment to quality business programs,” added Michael L. Bodnar, dean of the business technology division. “We believe that this accreditation is an important standard for our students and for the businesses employing our graduates.” Bodnar explained that the business department chairs and faculty participated in the accreditation to ensure that the teaching and learning processes within the business technology program meet the rigorous educational standards established by the ACBSP. The ratification of accreditation by ACBSP covers a ten-year period, during which Stark State must continually reaffirm its quality through quality assurance reports.

ACBSP’s mission is to establish, promote, and recognize educational practices that contribute to the continuous quality improvement of business education programs, teaching of business courses, and student learning outcomes in colleges and universities throughout the United States and abroad.

Judges hold court at Stark State

The Fifth District Court of Appeals, one of the few courts in Ohio that routinely “rides the circuit,” hearing cases in each of the 15 counties that comprise the district, visited Stark State College this spring. Their visit enabled students and the public to view the court in action. Three of the six Appeals Court judges hearing civil, criminal and domestic cases at Stark State were left to right: Judge W. Scott Gwin, Judge John Wise and Judge Sheila Farmer.

Legal Research and Writing Instructor Martin Olson coordinated the event, which is considered a legal session of the court.

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ALUMNIUPDATE

May 2006 Commencement:

A Plumb family affair!

“A Snapshot of the Future” Representative W. Scott Oelslager took the podium May 21 at the Canton Memorial Civic Center and told the 533 graduates before him that the title of his commencement address was “A Snapshot of the Future.” He paused, smiled and then said, “I’m looking at it.”

Before nearly 3500 guests, Oelslager related the future of the Stark State graduates to Thomas L. Friedman’s book The World is Flat. Oelslager spoke of Friedman’s optimism about the world, but also about the necessity to keep up in an ever-changing world. He talked about the different types of workers who make up our “flat world,” as described in Friedman’s book.

Rep. Oelslager emphasized that Stark State grads in the audience represented those types of workers, many of whom are in demand globally: accountants, engineers, health care workers, information technology specialists, service workers, auto technology workers, those who have the need to update their skills and those who have started a second career.

He praised Stark State for the quality of its programs and its graduates.

“Analysts have always measured society by their achieved dreams,” Oelslager said. “I’m sure you will achieve your dreams.”

Oelslager, state representative for the 51st House District, is a well-known proponent of higher education and serves as a strong voice for public education in the Ohio legislature.

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All parents are proud of their children on graduation day, but on May 21 Rick Plumb, a Stark State graduate himself, was especially beaming as he watched not one, but three of his children take the stage at the Canton Memorial Civic Center to receive their degrees. Pictured in the center from left to right with their associate degrees are: Angie Fettler, nursing; Rick Plumb II, civil engineering with architectural and surveying options with distinction, and Ileann Hicks, human and social service technology with distinction. Dad Rick Plumb, a 1994 graduate in human and social services technology, flanks them on the left and their stepmother Martha Miller-Plumb, former instructor of English and former coordinator of Mind Games at Stark State, is on the far right. Truly a proud day for the Plumb family and for Stark State College!

Congratulations to all.

’71

William T. Kemp, ’71, electrical engineering, is a test engineer and radiation safety officer at the Air Force Research Laboratory in New Mexico.

Kemp began his career after graduation in 1971 and credits Stark State as the foundation for his career. “I want to express my gratitude for education at Stark State,” he said. “You planted a seed and I like to believe it took hold and allowed my mind to grow. My success in my career is based on my foundation, and I thank Stark State for that wonderful career.”

’85

Michael McFarland, ’85, design engineering, is president of MICA Building Company, Inc. in Florida. He and his wife live in Port St. Lucie, FL.

’88

Ken Hartman, ’88, accounting electronic data processing option, was recently promoted to controller with Strang Communications, a Christian publishing company in Lake Mary, FL. Hartman and his wife Rita (Swauger) live in Lake Mary with their two children Emily and Robb. She is a 1988 Stark State graduate with a degree in accounting - CPA option and is currently pursuing a master’s of business administration from Webster University.

’90

’91

Terry Scott Davenport, ’90, civil engineering, was named the June 2005 Akron City Employee of the Month.

Davenport is an engineering technician for the city. He and his wife Carla live in Akron with their two sons.

Carolotta A. Forester-Langford, ’91, business management, has earned a master’s degree in human resource development from Webster University in Saint Louis, MO. She resides in San Antonio, TX with her husband Harvey.

Alumni Advisory Council Nancy Michel, Chair David Abou-Zakhim John Fetty Randy Kreinbrink George Lemon Mark Martin Ronald Revlock Mary Beth Reynolds Phillip Rohr Lucinda Stone Steve Yoder

’95

’97

’98

’01

Kim (Zumbrunn) Mayberry, ’95, records information technology, has been promoted to records specialist with Turner Broadcasting Systems in Atlanta. Mayberry, Stark State’s 1997 Alumnus of the Year, was previously employed with Time Warner Cable - Northeast Ohio as records coordinator. In 2004 she was named Chapter Member of the Year by the Association for Records Managers and Associates (ARMA). She currently resides in Snellville, GA with her husband of 33 years, Dale. Their daughter Lisa is a 1999 Stark State graduate with a degree in marketing management.

’02

’03

Jamie (Keim) Wilkes, ’97, nursing, has accepted a position as a registered nurse in the cardiac unit at Torrance Memorial Medical Center in Torrance, CA. Wilkes is currently living in Los Angeles, CA where her husband Christopher, a captain in the Air Force, is stationed. The couple have a son and a daughter.

Judy (Barker) Niskanen, ’98, medical assisting, is a certified ophthalmic technician with the Cleveland Clinic and has traveled to the Middle East to care for patients. Niskanen is hoping to return to school to obtain a nursing degree.

She currently lives in Ravenna with her two sons.

Kurt Hurner, ’01, human and social service, is engaged to be married to Rachel Yoder of Copley. Hurner is a Medicaid eligibility specialist/case manager with Healthcare Resolution Services, Inc. in Akron.

Heath I. McCartney, ’02, mechanical engineering and ’04, design engineering, is an application drafter with Wayne-Dalton Corporation in Mt. Hope, OH. In 2005 he married Erin (Waller), who is pursuing an accounting certification and degree at Stark State.

The couple reside in Massillon.

Stephanie (Richardson) King, ’03, early childhood education, is a provider network representative with Interplan Health Group. Married to Andrew King in 2005, the Rootstown, OH residents celebrated the birth of their son Riley in March of this year.

Heather Loew, ’03, accounting, is a financial support coordinator with Diebold Incorporated in Green, OH. She and her husband Eric, a design engineering instructor at Stark State, live in Canton.

Nikkol (Hambach) Mendiola, 03, medical transcription, is working as a medical transcriptionist with Cardiovascular Consultants, Inc. in Canton. Mendiola is a resident of Massillon, where she lives with her husband Nicholas.

’04

Roger Werstler, ’04, massage therapy, is co-owner of Tables For Two, Inc., a couples massage and catering service in Middlebranch, OH. Additional information can be found at www.tablesfortwo.net.

Roger lives in Canton with his wife of 37 years, Karen.

WHAT’S NEW with you?

If you’ve had a special event in your life recently, perhaps a marriage, birth of a child, job promotion or a special honor, please let your Stark State College of Technology friends know about it!

Simply complete the form on the Web at www.starkstate.edu/about/alumni/whatsnew.htm Attach a high resolution photo to your email if you have one or send it to: Stark State College of Technology, The Alumni Office - Rm S200 6200 Frank Ave. N. W., North Canton, OH 44720.

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2006 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Paula Warren has given more than 28 years to her field.

Whether in the healthcare world as director of information services at the Community Health Center, or as an adjunct instructor in health information technology (HIT) at Stark State, this year’s Distinguished Alumnus of the Year has happily and tirelessly given back to her profession.

Warren began her career in the hospital setting but moved into the chemical dependency treatment setting at the Community Health Center in 1984. In addition to her duties as director of information services, she is also the privacy officer, charged with ensuring compliance with medical privacy laws and acting as the Center’s liaison with the courts. In 1985, Warren was hired as an adjunct HIT instructor at Stark State. She is also a self-employed health information consultant and is currently working with the Community Dialysis Unit in Canton.

“My husband says I should get a paper route on the weekends, since I don’t have enough to do,” Warren joked.

Warren graduated from Stark State in 1981, and received her Accredited Record Technician certification that same year. She credits Stark State with being the foundation of her career, giving her life-long skills she could apply immediately to her job at Aultman Hospital and which helped “…The road to my accomplishments her move into a runs right through higher-level position and a significant raise in salary at Robinson Memorial – Pamela M. Warren Hospital.

In 1999, Warren received a bachelor’s degree in management from Malone College. She received her registered health information administrator (RHIA) certification in 2005. She is heavily involved with the national, state and regional health information management associations and has been a member of the Stark State HIT advisory board since 1994.

“Paula has been a great success story since graduating,” said Darlene Horn, department chair for HIT at Stark State. “She continued her education and received her certification while

Stark State College.”

maintaining a full-time job, teaching part-time and doing her consulting work. She is a leader and an advocate for the health information management profession.”

Of all her duties and accomplishments, Warren says she may take the greatest satisfaction from teaching.

“I love the interaction with students. It’s an opportunity for me to give back the knowledge I’ve acquired and bring my real-life experiences into the classroom.

“I stand up in the class and I can point to my desk when I was a student and I tell them that I am an example that they can do whatever they want and accomplish whatever they want with their education. When they see the opportunities I’ve been given, they understand that it’s really possible for them to succeed.”

Warren, her husband Bob, who is also a Stark State graduate with a degree in civil engineering – surveying, and their two children, reside in Jackson Township.