In this Issue …
Melanie McLane Appointed to TCTC Commission
Melanie H. McLane of Central has been appointed to TriCounty Technical College’s (TCTC) Commission, the ninemember governing board of the College.
Governor Henry McMaster appointed McLane to a three-year term on the Commission effective June 3. She represents Pickens County.
McLane was selected as part of the Arthrex startup team for the Pendleton manufacturing facility in 2019, an expansion of their manufacturing operations in southwest Florida. She currently serves as the director of human resources. Arthrex is a global medical device company and leader in multi-specialty, minimallyinvasive surgical technology innovation, scientific research, manufacturing, and medical education.
McLane has spent her entire career in manufacturing in both engineering and human resources roles for various companies in the Upstate.
“I am pleased to welcome Melanie to the TCTC Commission,” said President Galen DeHay. “Her extensive experience in manufacturing and her firsthand knowledge of Tri-County Technical College’s manufacturing programs will provide great insight to our board. Her two decades of working in engineering and human resources bring to us a diverse perspective that will help us ensure our graduates are prepared for the needs of our business and industry partners today and in the future.”
In 2020, McLane was instrumental in Arthrex establishing the S.C. Upstate Regional Youth Apprenticeship with TCTC. This youth apprenticeship is designed to assist Arthrex and other Upstate manufacturers with building a skilled workforce. For employers these apprenticeships have the potential to create a crucial recruitment pipeline, expand community partnerships, and help influence, mold and shape future employees.
Work-based learning opportunities and apprenticeships—for high school and college students—are the key to producing work-ready graduates, said McLane. “It’s an opportunity to immerse a talented student into your culture and workforce and a way to attract and develop the best employee.”
A first-generation college student, McLane said she understands the unique challenges many of TriCounty’s students face as they embark on their educational journey.
McLane holds a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering from Clemson University and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina. She maintains her certification as a SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP).
Following graduation from Clemson University, she began her career in supply chain at West Point Stevens and later as a manufacturing engineer at Sauer Danfoss where she learned to program and run CNC machines.
(continued on page
Melanie H. McLane
May/June 2024
Connection
is published six times each year by the Office of the President and the Public Relations Department.
Mailing Address (All Campuses)
P. O. Box 587
Pendleton, SC 29670
Pendleton Campus 7900 Highway 76 Pendleton, SC
Anderson Campus 511 Michelin Blvd. Anderson, SC
Easley Campus 1774 Powdersville Rd. Easley, SC
Oconee Campus 552 Education Way Westminster, SC
Main Number (864) 646-TCTC (8282)
Toll-free 1-866-269-5677
tctc.edu
Connecting
Facility Improvement Projects Take Off
WTri-County Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Questions about the accreditation of Tri-County Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Tri-County Technical College does not discriminate in admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, qualifying disability, veteran’s status, or national origin.
Dr. Galen DeHay President
e are experiencing unprecedented times at TCTC with nearly $100 million invested in facility improvement projects over the next three years. This investment will help us continue to deliver on our mission of providing students an exceptional and affordable learning experience that improves their quality of life while advancing economic development in the region by preparing a highly skilled workforce.
The first and perhaps most visible facility project is Oconee Hall. Oconee Hall is the busiest academic building on the Pendleton Campus with roughly 80% of students taking at least one class in this building. Accordingly, we have remodeled this building with the student in mind. Once complete, it will feature expanded classroom sizes and three new classrooms, a courtyard, student flex space, and an outdoor terrace with study spaces. The number of faculty offices will also increase as will the amount of natural light in the building. In addition, the building will be energy efficient and ADA accessible. The plan is to have Oconee Hall ready for occupancy in late November with students attending classes in spring 2025.
Another project taking place on the Pendleton Campus is Pickens Hall. Pickens is the oldest building on campus at 62 years old. Unfortunately, we cannot gut and remodel this building like Oconee Hall because of its infrastructure. Instead, we plan to demolish it and construct a two-story building in its place. Going vertical allows for the same square footage in a smaller footprint and is more cost effective. It also enables us to create an outdoor green space. Like Oconee Hall, this building will be energy efficient and ADA accessible. We plan to house programs such as Computer Information Technology, Business Management, and I-BEST in the new facility. The plan is to start demolition in early 2025 and be ready for occupancy in December 2026.
And, last but not least, we have a major project mapped out for our Anderson Campus. The plan is to create a transportation/logistics/utilities center with Power Line, Heavy Equipment, CDL, Mechatronics and Automotive/Heavy Diesel programs housed together. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 and be completed by the end of 2027.
I am energized and excited by the growth happening on our campuses, and I look forward to welcoming you to the new and improved Oconee Hall, Pickens Hall and Anderson Campus in the near future.
In your service,
Galen DeHay, Ph.D. President
Amy Borders Honored with Presidential Medallion for Instructional Excellence
English instructor Amy Borders’ commitment to student success, through her innovative teaching practices and co-curricular student support activities, earned her the College’s highest faculty award.
She was honored with the Presidential Medallion for Instructional Excellence May 2 at the College’s spring convocation. The medallion is presented each year to the instructor who has contributed the most during the academic year to the profession of teaching, to the development of the College and to the students.
Borders has taught English in the Arts and Sciences Division for the past 17 years.
“I am so grateful to work every day at a place where I feel valued, acknowledged, and connected, and I am very honored to be selected for this award,” Borders said.
“Amy creates opportunities for students to individually learn and connect with learning,” said Jennifer Hulehan, dean of the Arts and Sciences Division.
She noted Borders’ willingness to be available to students in both teaching and advising. “Amy regularly volunteers to find new ways to help students. She takes her job as an advisor to heart; her care and concern for students is evident in nearly every interaction she has with them.”
Crystal Pitrois-Takayama, dean of the Academic and Career Foundations (ACF) Division, said Borders’ reputation as an effective and caring educator facilitated her involvement with the English PLUS program. “Amy was chosen specifically for involvement in the English PLUS program not only because of her ability to maintain rigor in the freshman composition course, but also because of her ability to provide support for students who struggle with writing and research. Her contributions to the English PLUS program have been crucial to its success,” said Pitrois-Takayama.
A common thread throughout nomination support statements was her attitude. Dr. Brian Smith, director of adjunct faculty and student support, wrote: “Amy is full of energy daily and it shows in the work she does with her students. She celebrates the big and the small with her students through regular communication. She goes
above and beyond to ensure that students get what they need to be successful.”
Borders has maintained a commitment to lifelong learning and continuous improvement demonstrated through her participation as an inaugural member of the Rural Educator Academy (REA) over the past year.
REA is a professional development venture designed to cultivate the competencies and skills required for Appalachian community college faculty, student services staff, and leaders to improve rural student outcomes, particularly for lower income students and students of color.
The work of TCTC’s first cohort of the REA has been intentionally focused on discussing and understanding the needs of under-resourced students and developing specific success strategies to meaningfully connect with them individually—both in and out of the classroom.
For the group’s capstone project, REA members partnered with the IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access) Council and United Way of Anderson County to offer a Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS), an interactive immersion experience designed to sensitize community participants to the realities of poverty. Later Borders co-presented on this initiative at the 2023 Community Colleges of Appalachia conference in Asheville, N.C.
Borders serves as an integral part of the College’s graduation ceremonies by serving as a marshal.
She also is a longtime faculty advisor for Alpha Zeta Beta (AZB), TCTC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), a national honors society for two-year colleges. She served as an advisor from 2016 to 2023, earning the Advisor of the Year award in 2022.
Borders holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English from Clemson University.
Helen Rosemond-Saunders named SCATCC’s Commissioner of the Year
TCTC Commissioner Helen Rosemond-Saunders is the recipient of the 2024 South Carolina Association of Technical College Commissioners (SCATCC) Trustee Leadership Award. The award honors an individual who has made significant contributions to promote the technical or community college concept. This is the second time this honor has been bestowed upon Commissioner Rosemond-Saunders.
Amy Borders
Christian Beam Receives Adjunct Faculty Presidential Award
Christian Beam, history and humanities lecturer, received the College’s 2024 Adjunct Faculty Presidential Award.
This award is given annually at spring convocation to the adjunct faculty member who is recognized for excellence in teaching, who has consistently high student evaluations and who supports the philosophy and goals of the College.
In their nomination letter, colleagues from the Arts and Sciences Division noted Beam’s commitment to students, his profession, and to TCTC.
Beam began teaching a new course, Technology and Society, at TCTC in the fall of 2020, just as the College was emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic and resuming hybrid in-person instruction. By spring 2021, he was teaching in all of the history and humanities subjects, including Western Civilization and American History, in addition to Technology and Society. “His flexibility in both subject areas and modalities, as well as his willingness to work at all campuses and at all class times, made him the obvious choice for promotion when a lecturer position opened in fall 2021,” said Kathleen (Katy) Hardy, department head for Associate of Arts.
“Christian’s adaptability, readiness, and commitment are integral in allowing the Arts & Sciences Division to achieve our mission of
TCTC Commission Elects Officers
The TCTC Commission elected new officers at its April 1 meeting.
Hamid Mohsseni has been elected to serve his first term as chairman of the College’s nine-member governing board. He represents Anderson County.
Jim Wanner of Salem was elected vice chair. He previously represented Pickens County and became an Oconee County representative following Commissioner Larry Smith’s departure earlier this year.
Jim Kaplan of Pickens was elected secretary. He represents Pickens County.
Mohsseni was appointed to the Commission in 2020. He is president and CEO of Anderson Restaurant Group in Anderson.
Wanner was appointed to the Commission in January 2019. He is the founder and CEO of KeyMark, an intelligent automation
meeting students’ needs through delivering quality instruction,” said Hardy.
Beam’s enthusiasm for teaching is reflected in student evaluations, which reference the academic and intellectual impact he has had on them. Students also recognize Beam’s classroom as one of support and inclusion. One student wrote, “This was one of the best classes I’ve taken here. He loves the subject and cares about students and their grades. He enjoys being there. He really wants us to succeed and do well.”
Another student credited Beam’s class for transforming them into an active lifelong learner. “I have been on this earth 29 years, and have only now gotten to the point where I believe history is not only repeating itself, but learning about it so it possibly could be stopped is a must learn, and that is thanks to Mr. Beam.”
Beam serves on TCTC’s IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access) Council. He also served as a Bridge to Clemson advisor for the previous two summers.
In fall 2021, he became an adjunct representative on the Faculty Senate and continues to hold this seat. Social sciences instructor Stacey Frank, who previously served as Faculty Senate president, said, “Christian is always first to raise his hand to volunteer to do anything at all. He brings all of his passions, knowledge, and experiences to the table, 100%, every day. I appreciate his dedicated service to our students, faculty, and community, in addition to his service to our country.” (Beam is a U.S. Navy veteran.)
Beam holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history from California State University Northridge. He also earned an associate of arts from the College of the Canyons.
systems integrator headquartered in Liberty, S.C. Kaplan was appointed to the Commission in 2018. He is the former president/owner of Cornell Dubilier Electronics, a manufacturer of electric components. He served as president from 2000 until 2023.
Other TCTC Commission members include: Anderson County: Leon (Butch) Harris, J. Allard (Al) Young Oconee County: John M. Powell, Helen P. Rosemond-Saunders Pickens County: Thomas F. Strange, Melanie H. McLane
Hamid R. Mohsseni
Christian Beam
James D. Wanner
James P. Kaplan
Board of Visitors Gets Updates And Tours Oconee Hall
Renovation Site
The Board of Visitors met on May 1 for its quarterly meeting. President Galen DeHay gave briefings on the latest Manufacturing Works and Plastic Injection Mold cohorts, as well as I-BEST enrollment which has increased.
Karen Potter, who serves as the liaison to the Board of Visitors, outlined the College’s community outreach framework. As part of the framework, the College will identify populations it is not serving well or reaching at scale, identify the needs of those populations, and then develop actions plans to address those needs. Ultimately, the College seeks to improve relationships, address barriers to enrollment, and help community members see that college is possible for them and that TCTC is that college.
Richard Macbeth, director of project management, gave updates on Oconee Hall renovations. “The project is four weeks ahead of schedule,” Macbeth reported, with the occupancy date moved up to November as opposed to December. “We are currently under budget and ahead of schedule,” he said.
The renovation began last year and the building was taken down to the steel structure. The designers have increased the building’s footprint by 44% while retaining 87% of the original steel structure. The new building will have 20 total classrooms between the second and third floors. The first floor houses the faculty neighborhood which provides a single front door for our students, he said. Also,
clockwise from top left: Oconee Hall when it was first built, Oconee Hall currently under renovation, and the back of the building under construction.
there will be a 3,400 sq. ft outdoor terrace with study spaces. This renovation will increase student capacity by 60%, he said. (For more details, see President DeHay’s message on Page 2.)
President DeHay also recognized members who are rotating off the board after four years of service. They are Kellie Boone; Debi Brannon; Carol Burdette; Manus Caldwell, Jr; Andria Carpenter; Pam Christopher, G. Lee Cole, Jr; Tracy Grate; Ken Hitchcock; Keith Hudgins; Nick Johnson; Kristi King-Brock; Ruthie Millar; Chunsta Miller; Darryl Morris, Jr; Ramon Nieves-Lugo; Bobby Rettew; Sandra Sandifer; Cory Williams, Sr; and Gene Williams. New members will be installed at the September meeting.
Carol Burdette Urges Graduates To Find Ways to Serve, Give, Accomplish and Show Kindness
Each of you came to Tri-County Technical College with a story, Carol Burdette, CEO of United Way of Anderson County, told spring graduates in her address to the Class of 2024. “This graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life’s story.”
Three hundred and seventy-three students were awarded degrees, diplomas and/or certificates during the College’s spring commencement held May 7 at Clemson University’s Littlejohn Coliseum.
“We all have a story and you have continued to write your story while you’ve been here. Some of you have struggled with transportation to get to your classes. Some of you are firstgeneration college students like I was. Some of you have families who may be very supportive, but in some cases, families are frightened that if you get a college degree and a good job, you will forget them. Some of you have been challenged to find daycare for your children to get to class and to get your work done. Whatever your situation, it is part of your story,” she said.
Going forward she urged graduates to find ways to serve, give, accomplish and show kindness.
“Wherever you go, show respect to those around you regardless of their religion, the color of their skin, their sexual orientation, their political stance, their socioeconomic status or their education level,” she said.
“Wherever you go, seek to serve,” she said. “We all have 24 hours in a day … find some time to give back. Serve your family, serve in your place of faith, serve in your workplace, and serve in your community. You all now have skills that will help you make a living, but remember that you always want to make a life and that will include serving. Winston Churchill said, ‘We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give’.”
She acknowledged that some of the graduates will go straight into the workforce while others will be heading to a four-year institution. “But wherever your journey takes you, always find ways to continue learning and having new experiences. What you learn, where you go and what you do will all be a part of your story.”
Carol Burdette addresses the Class of 2024.
Joe Cantrell, a Student Government Association representative, gave remarks during the ceremony.
President DeHay shakes hands with a graduate.
Graduate Lydia Stovall Says, “I Belong Here”
Lydia Stovall spent her entire primary and secondary educational journey being homeschooled by her mother and interacting with a small cohort of students through the Anderson Home School Association.
“It was a great experience,” said the 23-year-old Anderson resident, who admits she approached college with some apprehension. She wondered when she enrolled at TCTC in 2018 whether those smaller home school experiences could be translated on the larger college scale.
“But TCTC proved it was possible time and time again over the last three-and-one half years,” she said, most recently during a meeting she had with Arts and Sciences Division Dean Jennifer Hulehan. Stovall arrived early for a meeting with a group project member and instructor. “The coolest part is that she personally went out of her way to assist me when I was an hour early and not sure where I needed to go. We talked for a long time, and I was able to get to know her. It sounds so cliché but I felt heard by her. The dean took the time to talk to me and gave me her full attention. She was genuinely interested in what I said and my TCTC experience. I have had that experience more than once here. Like the campus mural reads, I belong here and I’ve never felt like a statistic at TCTC,” she said.
Stovall enrolled at TCTC in the fall of 2018 and took two courses to have a soft start to college.
“It was so overwhelming. My school experience to that point had been a desk, a book, my brother, and my mom at my house. My first TCTC class was in Pickens Hall and there were so many people so I had to get acclimated to my schedule and my new environment.” She says her English 101 instructor, Julie Ellington, helped her do so. “She was the best possible introduction to college. Her demeanor and style of teaching were similar to my mother’s,” Stovall said. She took two face-to-face classes and one online to ease in. But she took a few detours along the way due to family illness and the consequent passing of three family members. She lost both of her paternal grandparents and an uncle over the course of four years.
Her paternal grandmother passing away in 2019 from cancer was a huge setback, she said. “My grades fell because I lost focus and consequently I lost my scholarship,” she said.
“I got my GPA back up and decided to take spring of 2020 off to reorient myself.” Then COVID
hit and she made the hard choice to extend her break, knowing that she struggled with online courses. “I found I need a sense of healthy competition to stay in the game. I like people and the socialization and conversations in class. It was a big motivator for me to be with other students in the classroom,” she said.
Stovall’s uncle passed away in 2021 following a heart attack, and she lost her grandfather as well in October of the following year. “It was a personal roller coaster,” said Stovall. “Our family got a lot smaller and a lot closer very quickly,” she said.
Losing her paternal grandfather (Jim Stovall) in 2022 to pancreatic cancer three weeks after the diagnosis served as her greatest motivation for returning to school.
“He truly valued education. My grandfather was a board of trustees member at Anderson University. Before he passed, he asked me if I was planning to return to college, and I promised him that I was. That was in October of 2022. He was my motivator to go back and finish my degree. I was still grieving but I wanted to fulfill my promise to him,” she said.
She returned in the spring of 2023 taking one history course. In the fall she took three courses and this spring three more to finish her degree. When she made the highest grade on her first test in a sociology class this semester, she said, “My first thought was to call Paw-Paw. I still think of him with my academic victories,” she said.
Although her grandparents weren’t at her graduation, she kept them close in thought by wearing a locket that bears photos of them. “I will finish my degree for me but for Paw-Paw, too. He saw all of his grandchildren graduate from college except me. I will wear the locket and they will be with me.”
Stovall received her Associate in Arts degree at spring commencement on May 7.
below: Lydia Stovall poses in front of the mural.
Lydia Stovall
Apprentices pose with TCTC faculty and staff and Prisma Health representatives.
Prisma Health, TCTC Celebrate Registered Apprentices
Prisma Health and TCTC celebrated participants in the nursing apprenticeship program at a luncheon in May.
Registered apprentices Nicki Rush, Amy Coleman, Stayci Evans, Jessica Murray, and Seth Anderson gathered at a luncheon at the Easley Campus to celebrate their achievements. Students attend nursing classes at TCTC while maintaining their jobs at Prisma Health.
In the fall of 2022 a new nursing apprenticeship program through Prisma Health was established and allows approved participants to attend college because it addresses critical shortages which include financial barriers, helping entry-level workers gain upward mobility and creating a diverse workforce.
Over the last year and a half, 39 individuals have entered the Prisma Health apprenticeship program and there will be 33 active in the summer, said Bryan Manuel, dean of Integrated Workforce Solutions at TCTC. Participants have completed 554 credit hours. “This speaks to Prisma Health’s commitment to meet workforce needs. It’s a model for building and growing your own talent,” he added. “This program enables folks to achieve dreams and support their families.”
Val Richardson, director of talent and workforce development at Prisma Health, said this apprenticeship creates a road map designed for them to move forward. “These individuals are already working for Prisma Health and are keeping the expertise in our community,” she said.
RN and LPN Graduates Report Perfect Pass Rate on NCLEX
The latest graduates from TCTC’s associate degree nursing and practical nursing programs report a perfect first-time pass rate on the new NGN (Next Generation) National Council Licensing Exam (NCLEX) for the first quarter of 2024.
The NCLEX is a nationally recognized licensure examination required to become either a registered nurse (NCLEX-RN) or a licensed practical nurse (NCLEX-PN). Graduates of both programs must pass the exam to work as RNs and/or LPNs in the state.
The NGN NCLEX for both programs are computerized exams that test a graduate’s basic nursing knowledge and decision-making ability on commonly encountered health-care situations. The new NGN NCLEX includes next generation features, such as real-world case studies to measure a nurse’s ability to think more critically and make the right decisions.
“I am so proud of our students and faculty for their dedication to academic excellence,” said Jackie Rutledge, nursing department head. “We know our students are capable and prepared, but we also know this exam is difficult. The test is comprehensive and consists of questions which are challenging and require critical thinking. We are celebrating our graduates’ success as well as our dedicated faculty and our local clinical partners who collaborate with us to provide our students with meaningful experiences.”
Students in both nursing programs continue their status of surpassing state and national pass rates on the exams.
According to the National Council State Board of Nursing, the state pass rate for associate degree nursing graduates is 97.99% and the national average is 94.15%.
The state average for practical nursing graduates is 98.01% and the national average is 91.10%.
Practical nursing graduates are employed at nursing homes, doctor’s offices and acute care facilities.
Associate degree nursing graduates are predominantly employed at Prisma Health and AnMed, she said.
TCTC’s nursing departments are fully accredited by the State Board of Nursing in South Carolina and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
Foundation News
Horton Establishes Scholarship
Horton, Inc., located in Westminster, made a $20,000 donation to TCTC’s Foundation to establish a scholarship endowment for Oconee County residents who are Engineering and Industrial Technology students at TCTC.
Pictured from left are Courtney White, executive director of TCTC’s Foundation; Cordell Deitz, Horton CEO; TCTC President Galen DeHay; Terryl (Terry) Gilberstadt, vice chair, Horton Board of Trustees; Lynn Brown, Horton Board of Trustees member; and Kellie Boone, corporate recruiting manager for Horton and a TCTC alumna.
Keowee Key Community Partnership Awards Scholarship
Michael Korycansky has been awarded the Keowee Key Community Partnership Scholarship at TCTC for FY 2024.
Korycansky is a Media Arts Production major at TCTC and a Keowee Key employee.
The Keowee Key Community Partnership consists of Keowee Key property owners whose mission is to partner with deserving, effective, not-for-profit organizations that make a difference in Oconee County.
The first partnership was established with the TriCounty Technical College Foundation to create the Keowee Key Community Partnership Scholarship Fund.
The purpose of the scholarship is two-fold: to provide financial assistance to need-based individuals on a case-bycase basis, with Keowee Key full- and part-time employees and their immediate families receiving first consideration, and to support the College’s vision of transforming lives and building strong communities one student at a time. The scholarship covers two semesters of study.
Korycansky began working as a dishwasher at Keowee Key a little over a year ago and was promoted to line cook. His passion for photography, videography and writing led him to enroll at TCTC to pursue a certification in Audio Production. After earning the certification, he decided to pursue an associate degree in Media Arts Production. He plans to finish his degree this fall.
Upon receiving the Keowee Key Community Partnership Scholarship, Korycansky said, “The scholarship is a blessing as it will allow me to finish my education without financial stress.”
Clemson Downs Donation Supports Nursing Scholarship
Clemson Downs contributed $1,578 to TCTC’s Foundation to continue its support of the nursing assistant program. This donation will support a scholarship for a certified nurse aide student enrolled in a Corporate and Community Education (CCE) nursing assistant program at the College.
James Hill, executive director of Clemson Downs, second from left, and TCTC President Galen DeHay, third from left, are pictured with Courtney White, executive director of the TCTC Foundation, left, and Carolyn Stewart, program director for Corporate and Community Education health care programs.
Our College Family
in transition
Rhonda Gibby Named Vice President of Human Resources
Rhonda Deaton Gibby joined TCTC June 3 as chief human resources officer (CHRO) and vice president of human resources. As CHRO and VP of HR, Gibby is responsible for providing HR leadership that advances the College’s strategic directions and initiatives, developing and implementing a comprehensive talent management system, working with leaders to recruit and develop a diverse workforce, and guiding the development of an employee experience that fosters a sense of belonging.
Chris Scott Named Chief of Police
Veteran
police
officer Christopher (Chris) Scott has been named chief of police at TCTC. He is responsible for preparing and providing for the safety and protection of students, employees and visitors at each of Tri-County’s community campuses, learning centers and training facilities. He also supports the police department by providing resources for service coverage, emergency preparedness and department and College-wide training and accreditation.
Chief Scott, who has worked in law enforcement for 40 years, spent the last 18 years as a lieutenant in the Forensic Services Division of the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office.
She has more than 25 years of HR experience with a focus on building and aligning talent to business growth priorities. Most recently, she served as CHRO for US Orthopaedic Partners as well as founder of Talent Advantage, an executive coaching and HR advisory firm. Prior CHRO roles include Avanos Medical and Halyard Health, as well as other global senior leadership roles at Kimberly Clark and other medical tech companies. An Oconee County native, early in her career, she worked in human resources at Orian Rugs and later Kendall (Covidien).
As a student at Tri-County more than three decades ago, Gibby fondly recalls the investment made in her by instructors who recognized and encouraged her to pursue her passion for learning. “I remember former Office Systems Technology (now Administrative Office Technology) instructor Judy Read talking to me about scenarios and contingency plans—how to get from point A to point B with multiple options. That advice has served me well in my career,” said Gibby.
After earning an associate degree and while working at Clemson University, she came back to her alma mater with a renewed focus: human resources management. She attended university transfer classes on her lunch hour while continuing to work full time. She also appreciated the diversity of the student population. As an evening student, she attended classes with other working adults. “Many times, the answers to my questions came from the students themselves who talked about their life experiences.”
After earning a bachelor of science degree in Human Resources at Southern Wesleyan University, she later pursued a master’s degree in Human Resource Development and Business Administration at Clemson.
In 2013, Gibby received Tri-County Technical College’s Distinguished Alumni Award, which highlights her dedication to her alma mater.
After earning a criminal justice degree from TCTC in 1983, he began his career as a latent print examiner/crime scene technician with Greenville County before moving to the Charleston Police Department. He later served as a criminal justice instructor at the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy and then as a lieutenant in the Forensic Services Division for the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office.
In addition to his TCTC degree, Chief Scott holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Walden University, and in May he received a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Anderson University.
Clorissa Miller, right, and Claire Waddell, far right, joined the Office of Financial Aid as financial aid coordinators on June 3.
Ashleigh Sheppard is a recruiter for the Human Resources Department. In her role, Ashleigh will be responsible for overseeing the talent acquisition process and recruiting efforts for the College. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human services from Southern Wesleyan University and has experience in recruitment.
In their roles, they will serve TCTC students as they navigate the complexities of college financial aid funding and resources. They will guide students through the FAFSA and paperwork process, help them maximize financial aid funding, and counsel them in making financial aid decisions that are consistent with their academic goals.
excellence through service
CCA Honors
Manufacturing Works Program
TCTC’s Manufacturing Works program was honored with the Instructional Program Award at the Community Colleges of the Appalachia’s (CCA) conference held June 9, 10 and 11.
Arts and Sciences Division Dean Jennifer Hulehan accepted the award which recognizes innovative programs in CCA member colleges that have been designed and implemented to foster excellence in teaching and learning.
In 2022, Tri-County Technical College (TCTC) established Manufacturing Works, a new registered pre-apprenticeship program for high school seniors in Anderson County who don’t have an identified path after graduation. It is custom-designed to align with skills sought by local employers and high-quality apprenticeship programs in the region.
Students enrolled in Manufacturing Works attend weekly classes at TCTC’s Anderson Campus. As part of the program, they have the opportunity to earn one or more industry-recognized credentials, such as an OSHA-10 completion card and Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt. They also have the opportunity to develop both technical and employability skills through hands-on activities with simulated lab experiences and/or through employer partner opportunities. By demonstrating employability skills in a simulated workplace environment, students can earn a stipend of up to $600. The stipend is made possible by funding provided by the Development Corporation of Anderson County. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible for registered apprenticeship programs at companies like Arthrex and First Quality.
“Manufacturing Works offers ways for high school seniors to gain college credit, work experience and earn a college certificate,” said Galen DeHay, president of TCTC.
Upon completion of the program, students earn a certificate in Manufacturing Production I from Tri-County Technical College and are ready to enter full-time employment in manufacturing or continue their education to earn an associate degree in an engineering or industrial technology field.
CCA Conference Kudos
TCTC was well represented at the Community Colleges of the Appalachia’s (CCA) conference. The conference consisted of presentations, awards, making connections, learning from peer institutions and sharing TCTC best practices!
Highlights from the conference:
• President DeHay began his term as the CCA Board Chairman.
• Travis Durham, director of student engagement and accountability, and Daniel Adams, Easley Campus director, led our Rural Educator Academy (REA) cohort #2 as they presented their capstone work in the general session, titled “The Path to Become a Student-Ready College: Building Foundations to Improve Student Outcomes.” Cohort #2 members are Daniel Adams, Dr. Stephan Irwin, Jaclyn O’Rorke, Dr. Beverly McAdams, Heidi Reeves, Carolyn Stewart, and Ann Turner.
• Media Arts Production faculty member Stacey Schiff delivered her session, titled “Crafting Resilient Minds: Navigating the Transition from Classroom to Career.” She demonstrated how sharing best practices with colleagues with different academic disciplines contributes to student engagement in the classroom that is aligned with their career goals.
• Foundation Executive Director Courtney White and Beth Brown, coordinator of annual giving, brought the FUN in Fundraising in their session, “Building a Sense of Community to Reap the Benefits: Employee Giving 101.”
Dean Jennifer Hulehan accepts the Instructional Program Award.
Stacey Schiff
Heidi Reeves, Courtney White, and Beth Brown
Rural Educator Academy members
Dr. DeHay, Travis Durham Among Co-Presenters at Summit
Travis Durham, director of Student Engagement and Accountability, and President Galen DeHay joined Dr. Kevin Boys, executive director of Community Colleges of the Appalachia (CCA), and three representatives from Mountain Empire Community College as co-presenters at the 2024 Rural Summit: From Cradle to Career. The title of the group’s presentation was “Community Colleges of the Appalachia’s Rural Educators Academy: Stories of Transformation.” The Rural Summit brings together teachers, principals, superintendents, higher education leaders, legislators, and nonprofit leaders to share ideas
and strategies for ensuring that rural youth have the opportunity to enter school ready to learn and successfully transition from high school to college and career.
Over the last two years, TCTC’s first cohort of faculty and staff participated in a new professional development venture called the Rural Educator Academy. The goal is to increase awareness of challenges and struggles of our under-resourced students and to provide practical interventions for faculty and staff to incorporate into their practice. The second cohort began its work earlier this year.
Celebrating National Lineworker Appreciation Day
National Lineworker Appreciation Day is celebrated each year on April 18 and honors the hard work, innovation and dedication of America’s electrical lineworkers.
Duke Energy celebrated its partnership with TCTC by presenting a $30,000 check to College officials in support of the Power Line Worker program.
Students Attend Higher Education Day
TCTC students were among the 30 different colleges and universities across South Carolina who were recognized at the Statehouse on April 9 during the third annual Higher Education Day.
Rep. Neal Collins, who serves Pickens and Greenville County’s District 5, pictured fourth from left, taught an American Government course at the Easley Campus in spring. He and Business Administration instructor August Johnson, far right, and Dan Cooper, chief of staff, not pictured, accompanied the students. Pictured from left are TCTC students Hannah Pope, Arion Montgomery and Ada Bates. They toured the state capitol and spoke with elected leaders. Later they posed for a photo with Lt. Governor Pamela Evette on the Statehouse steps.
The event was hosted in partnership with the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities, South Carolina Technical College System, and South Carolina Commission on Higher Education.
President Galen DeHay Travis Durham
Men of Color Tournament Raises Money for Scholarships
The fourth annual Men of Color (MOC) golf tournament was held April 3 at Southern Oaks Golf Course in Easley. Proceeds from the tournament and prize drawing benefit MOC student scholarships.
The team of Will Jones, Austin McAdams, Frank Harling and Bradon Smith were first-place winners with a score of 61.
Thanks to the MOC Committee members for another outstanding tournament that will benefit our students.
Members are from left Rodney Estrada, Dr. Jackie Blakley, Taliah Wheatley, Travis Durham, Dr. Brian Smith, and Angela Oglesby (front). Not pictured are Dr. Beverly McAdams and August Johnson.
Students Attend MOC Summit
Five TCTC students, accompanied by Travis Durham, Dr. Beverly McAdams, Dr. Brian Smith, and Taliah Wheatley, attended the seventh annual Clemson University Men of Color National Summit on April 11 and 12. They joined approximately 2,400 high school and college students, business professionals, educators, government officials and community leaders from across the country at the two-day summit. The mission of the summit is to create clearer pathways to college for African American/Black and Hispanic/Latinx young men and their allies.
Presented by Clemson University’s Division of Community, Engagement, Belonging and Access, the summit helps prepare and empower students to be leaders in our global economy. It also offers an array of nationally known speakers and experts, best-practice workshops, and informative breakout sessions.
Women of Color Hosts Guest Speakers
TCTC’s Women of Color (WOC) student organization is designed to empower through education, mentoring, and peer collaboration. This inclusive initiative welcomes women of all cultural backgrounds with the goal of ensuring that every woman at TCTC has access to the resources she needs to seize every opportunity.
Membership is open to all students at Tri-County Technical College. Each meeting featured guest speakers from the community.
Maria Morales
Maria Morales, a bilingual educator and consultant, was the guest speaker at the April 5 Women of Color meeting. She discussed how the Urban League empowers communities and ways students can get involved.
Morales, center, is
with, from
Dr. Carolyn
Amisial; Ingryd Masters; Kendall Arnold; Kim Arnold, chief operating officer for the Urban League of the Upstate and a 2003 graduate of TCTC’s Administrative Office Technology program; and Mia Tensley.
Dr. Laneika Musalini
Dr. Laneika Musalini, director of the Office of Sponsored Research and Programs for Metropolitan State University of Denver, returned to her alma mater and former place of employment to talk with students in the Women of Color organization. Her presentation was titled “From Surviving to Thriving.”
“It doesn’t matter where you start but how you complete the course and run the race,” she said. Dr. Musalini is an alumna of TCTC. In addition to her associate degree, she has earned bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degrees.
Maria
pictured
left,
Walker; Nehemiah
BASF, TCTC Celebrate Completion of Fourth Cohort in Apprenticeship Program
BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions (ECMS) celebrated completion of the fourth cohort of apprentices from its North American Apprenticeship Development Program on Tuesday, June 25, at the TCTC Oconee Campus.
This collaboration is a partnership between BASF, TCTC and Apprenticeship Carolina.
The apprenticeship program is designed to help individuals without prior manufacturing experience enter the manufacturing environment. By focusing on non-traditional hires, the program has successfully transitioned individuals from various backgrounds, including the military, food service, and retail, into thriving manufacturing careers. The program has also enabled BASF ECMS to hire talented individuals who might not have been considered otherwise due to their lack of manufacturing experience.
Four apprentices, Andrew Bratcher, Anna Brewer, Destiny Hickman, and Hunter Watson, successfully finished the 12-month training program that pays apprentices a full-time wage and full benefits to participate in on-the-job training at BASF’s Seneca facility.
“These apprentices have adapted incredibly well to a new industry and are already making positive contributions to their departments. We’re proud of their hard work and look forward to seeing how they continue to grow and advance in their careers,” said Elba Lizardi, site director for BASF ECMS in Seneca.
Throughout the program, the apprentices obtained OSHA 10 safety certification, White Belt Six Sigma Certification, and completed Creating Safety Involvement (CSI) training for safety observations in the plant. Additionally, they were awarded a certificate in Process Technology from TCTC and an apprenticeship certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor. They also received a pay raise upon completing the program.
“We are proud of the nearly 30 apprentices who have graduated from this program since it began in 2021,” said Bryan Manuel, dean of Integrated Workforce Solutions at TCTC. “This program exemplifies the power of education and industry partnership in creating a skilled workforce ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.”
The culmination of their training was marked by a capstone project, where the apprentices designed and built a mini evaporative cooling tower using a five-gallon bucket and a small bilge pump. This project showcased their practical skills and teamwork, involving roles such as supply chain management, quality assurance, operations, and project leadership. The apprentices presented their project at the celebration ceremony at TCTC’s Oconee Campus, explaining its construction, functionality, and the continuous improvement mindset they adopted.
“Completing this apprenticeship has been a transformative experience. As a recent high school graduate with limited work experience, the skills and certifications I’ve gained have opened doors
President Galen DeHay, left, and Elba Lizardi, site director for BASF ECMS in Seneca, right, pose with apprentices.
for my future, and the support from both BASF ECMS and Tri-County Technical College has been invaluable,” said apprentice Hunter Watson.
“This program has been a game-changer for me. As a mom, the flexibility and support allowed me to advance my career while still being there for my child. The skills I’ve gained have empowered me to build a better future for us,” said apprentice Destiny Hickman.
Melanie McLane
(continued from page 1)
In 2006, she joined Lockheed Martin first as an international sales representative (Singapore) and later transitioned to project manager and then senior planning operations representative.
In 2008, she joined Michelin North America where she held various positions in engineering and human resources, including industrial engineer, project management, and facility personnel management, working at several locations across manufacturing and corporate operations.
She is active in the community by serving on several boards, including the Anderson Area Business and Education Alliance and the WorkLink Workforce Development Board. While at Michelin, she led local United Way, American Heart Association, and March of Dimes campaigns, as well as the Michelin Challenge Education initiatives. She is a Riley Institute Diversity Fellow and a Conference Board Engagement Institute Research Fellow. Currently she actively volunteers as an activity school bus driver for Pickens County School District and is an active poll worker for the Pickens County Board of Voter Registration and Elections.
International Network of Michelin Cities Participants Tour Campus
The City of Anderson hosted the fourth conference of the International Network of Michelin Cities (INMC) April 15 – 19. The theme of this year’s conference was “Drivers of Economic Development.”
This is the first time the conference was held in the United States. Around 200 participants were from more than two dozen countries around the world. During the conference, there were international speakers who talked about a variety of topics, including transportation of the future, renewable energy, arts and culture.
As part of the conference, participants toured the Pendleton Campus and met with President DeHay for an overview of TCTC and its role in the community.
Students in EIT Division Network at Career Fair
TCTC’s Career and Employability Resources Office hosted a career fair for students in the Engineering and Industrial Technology (EIT) Division.
The event served as a prime opportunity for students to talk about employment opportunities with recruiters and managers and to develop a network of career contacts.
EIT Division Holds 3D Printing, CAD Modeling Workshop
The Engineering and Industrial Technology Division held its five-day STEM workshop for high school students last week. Sessions focused on the exciting fields of 3D printing and CAD modeling. Participants constructed their own 3D printers, learned about slicing 3D models for print, acquired basic CAD design skills, and gained essential printer maintenance and troubleshooting knowledge. They created a variety of fun prints, such as figurines and keychains, as well as practical prints that solve everyday problems.
In addition to technical knowledge, students gained valuable life skills such as teamwork, time management, and attention to detail. Each participant took home the 3D printer they built, allowing them to continue exploring their newfound skills, and they were encouraged to find ways to use 3D printing to help their community.
Following the camp, a survey was sent to parents/ guardians and participants to gain feedback for future workshops. One participant’s parent wrote: “This class was a life changer. My son loves his 3-D printer and he talks about it all the time. He keeps working on it and
researching possibilities he can do with it. It has ignited a passion in him. It was one of the best events he has ever attended. He said the staff was friendly and helpful and great teachers. He also enjoyed working and learning with the other kids. His good friend was in the class with him and they discuss the class and their 3-D printers all the time.”
Caden Acuff, right, talks with Lucas Edgar, left, facilities leader at Sealed Air Corp in Seneca and a 2022 Mechatronics graduate, and Tracey Carroll, training coordinator.
P.O. Box 587 Pendleton, SC 29670
tctc.edu
Heidelberg Supports Heavy Equipment Operator Program
TCTC’s Foundation recently received a $50,000 donation from Heidelberg Materials toward their $100,000 pledge to support the College’s Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) program.
Heidelberg’s contribution, its first to TCTC, will assist with the purchase of training equipment and marketing the HEO program in the College’s service area.
The program involves a total of 339 hours of training. Students gain hands-on training on multiple types of heavy construction equipment that replicates real-life operating scenarios.
“We are so grateful to Heidelberg for its generous gift that is an investment in our community’s workforce development. This partnership aligns with our vision of empowering individuals and transforming their lives while building stronger communities,” said Courtney White, executive director of TCTC’s Foundation.
South Carolina employment data indicates a strong demand for qualified heavy equipment operators, and employers are looking to fill new positions and openings created by a retiring workforce.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 10% job growth
for heavy equipment operators in the coming decade, faster than the average for all occupations.
Community
Pictured from left to right are Ron Bryant, HEO program director; Courtney White, TCTC Foundation executive director; TCTC President Galen DeHay; Allen Hartranft, Heidelberg’s S.C. operations manager; Jared Wendell, Heidelberg’s regional human resources manager; Mary Corley, SC DOT program director; and Dr. Rick Cothran, retired dean of the Corporate and
Education Division.