Connection September/October 2022
In this Issue …
Employees Volunteer for Community Service Activities In September............................................3
Cornell Dubilier Named Philanthropist of the Year Cornell Dubilier, Inc., is the 2022 recipient of the TriCounty Technical College Foundation’s Philanthropist of the Year award. This is the Foundation’s highest and most prestigious honor reserved for individuals, foundations, companies, trusts, organizations or other entities that have made a significant financial contribution, either cash or non-cash, President Galen DeHay, Jim Kaplan and Grayson Kelly to the Foundation to support the work of the College. Recently, Grayson Kelly, vice president of institutional advancement and business relations, presented the award to Jim Kaplan, CEO of Cornell Dubilier, a manufacturer of electric components. Cornell Dubilier has been a loyal donor to the TCTC Foundation since 2003 when the company made its initial gift, a $5,000 contribution to support the Don Garrison Instructional Excellence Endowment. In 2007 the company continued its support with a significant donation of $50,000 to establish the … (continued on page 14)
Ruthie Millar Receives 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award Campus Police Recognized at Annual Banquet.......................................5
AT&T Continues Support of I-BEST Program.......................................8
Being engaged in the community and valuing her personal and professional relationships are the keys to Ruthie Millar’s success in her job as director of community outreach at Clemson Downs and as an alumni ambassador telling the Tri-County story. “My personal motto is that relationships are the most important aspect of your job and your personal life,” said Millar, a 2011 graduate of TCTC who is the recipient of the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award. Ruthie Millar and Grayson Kelly The recipient of this award must have been awarded a degree, diploma or certificate from Tri-County; must have graduated at least one year ago; and must have made significant contributions to the College, the Alumni Association or the community. Longtime friend Carol Burdette, who is president and chief executive officer of the United Way of Anderson County, met Millar when she moved to Pendleton in the late 1980’s and they became fast friends. (continued on page 14)
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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
Tri-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. 2 • CONNECTION
Serving Those Who Need Us Most
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Dr. Galen DeHay n late September, the Tri-County Technical College President Commission met for their annual retreat. One of the main topics we discussed is economic mobility and under-resourced populations. As part of this discussion, I shared some interesting statistics about our student population. For example, nearly a third of our students are over 24 years old. In addition, a third of our students received a need-based Pell grant in 2021. These students are what we call under-resourced or post-traditional. What does it mean to be under-resourced or post-traditional? Typically, it means having one or more of these characteristics: • First-generation college student. • Academically underprepared. • Low income. • GED holder. • Special needs (learning differences). • 21 years of age or older. • Ethnic minority. • Parenting. • Working full time. In our service area alone, nearly 40,000 people don’t have a high school diploma or GED and nearly 55,000 households have an annual income of $35,000 or less. Most of these people are working, but their income remains low because their education level is low. For example, in Anderson County, it would take an annual income of $55,000 to meet basic needs without public or private assistance for a family of four. However, the type of job available to someone without a high school diploma or GED might pay a maximum of $19/hour, which equates to an annual salary of $39,520. So, what does this mean for Tri-County? As our community’s college, we have a responsibility to serve more under-resourced students. Accordingly, we need to make strategic changes in what, when, where, and how we reach, teach and support these students. One example of how we’re doing this is by reversing our community outreach model. For example, instead of approaching communities with a menu of services, we are engaging in listening sessions to better understand their needs. And instead of focusing on the student alone, we are focusing on the entire family. Our mission is to provide students an exceptional and affordable learning experience that improves their quality of life. Serving more under-resourced students will help to improve not only the individual’s quality of life but that of their entire family. In your service,
Galen DeHay, Ph.D. President
Employees Volunteer for Community Service Activities in September During the month of September, College employees volunteered for community service activities at Habitat for Humanity build sites and Habitat for Humanity Restores in the tri-county area. Six staff members – Priscilla Curvin, Francs Boyce, Aida Laham, Jessica Raymond, Kate Baggett and Becky Garrigan – met at a Pickens County Habitat build site on Stephens Road in Clemson on September 9. Under the direction of the Habitat manager, they spent the morning spreading mulch around the perimeter of the foundation of a house under construction. Becky Garrigan, benefits administrator in the Human Resources office, writes: “It was a good activity! We had a good time working with one another for a great cause. Learned some interesting things
that we would not have known about one another in a different setting. It was some laborintensive work. (I got a work out!!) We moved a large mound of mulch in wheelbarrows from one area to surround the foundation of a build that was very muddy and was needed to assist with providing traction for those working on the site to continue the build. We were tired at the end of our time but left feeling like we had made a difference.”
left: A group of College employees volunteered September 30 for a community service activity at a Habitat for Humanity build site in the Homeland Park area of Anderson. They installed insulation and foam baffles for a home under construction. Pictured from left are Kathy Brand, President Galen DeHay, Tasheka Wright, Jenni Creamer, Adam Ghiloni, Dr. Jackie Blakley, Ross Hughes and Stacey Frank.
learning experience for all of us and an opportunity to give back to the community,” said Durham. “We made connections with other volunteers (retirees who work with Habitat), who served as team leads, and a resident of the home next door. It was a win-win all around.”
center: Greg Grogan, Travis Durham, Morgan Pew and Lillian Hunter placed siding on a home under construction in Seneca. “It was a great
right: A team comprised of Dr. Chris Marino, Cathy Cole, Karen Potter, Mark Dougherty, Dr. Beverly McAdams and Amanda Donald worked at the Oconee Restore. They organized donations and prepared them for sale.
President’s List Recipients for Spring and Summer Celebrated President DeHay, front, center, hosted an ice cream social September 14 for students named to the President’s List for spring and summer 2022. To be eligible for the President’s List, a student must be classified as a degree, diploma, or certificate-seeking student; earn at least 12 credit hours in courses numbered 100 or above; attain a GPA of 4.00; and cannot earn an “F,” “WF,” or “U” grade for courses numbered 100 or below, Math 150 or English 150.
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Two Medical Programs Score 100% Pass Rates on Certification Exams The most recent graduates of the Expanded Duty Dental Assisting and Medical Assisting programs both report 100% pass rates on certification exams.
Expanded Duty Dental Assisting The Expanded Duty Dental Assisting 2022 graduates scored a 100% pass rate on all three parts of the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam. “Our students had a 100% pass rate on all three parts – infection control, radiology health and safety and general chairside,” said Expanded Duty Dental Assisting Program Director Mandy Hanks. “The department’s scores are always high and we’ve had 100% pass rates on separate exams but not since 2014 have students passed all three exams,” she said. “This is a very difficult test,” said Hanks. “It’s a comprehensive exam with a high level of questions.” TCTC scores exceed both state and national averages. According to information from the DANB, Tri-County’s average score on the infection control test was 518, while other accredited schools in the state scored 508. The national average score on that test was 485. Tri-County’s average score on the radiology exam was 504, with 487 being the state average and 459 the national average. Tri-County’s graduates’ scores averaged 535 on the general chairside exam, while state scores averaged 526 and the national average was 485. TCTC students took the first two exam parts in May and the final exam several days before graduating on August 4. “They graduated as certified dental assistants,” said Hanks. “The faculty and I are so proud. Their scores show their level of continued learning and investment in the profession.” TCTC’s Expanded Duty Dental Assisting program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
Medical Assisting TCTC’s most recent Medical Assisting graduates received a 100% pass rate on the American Association of Medical Assistants’ (AAMA) Certification Exam. All 11 graduates of the Class of 2022 received a passing score on the exam and are designated as Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs).
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“I’m very proud,” said Laura McClain, Medical Assisting program director. “This group of students was coming out of the pandemic and reacclimating to the classroom so there were some challenges, but they stepped up to the plate and met the task. They were determined to be successful. Their scores are a compliment to the College, the faculty and to the students themselves.” “Achieving a perfect pass rate is the ultimate goal every year,” said McClain, Their scores rank in the 91st percentile in the nation compared against other Medical Assisting certification scores. During the exam, students are tested on three components: general, administrative and clinical. There are 200 questions on the exam, she said. Students prepare all year for the exam, she said, by mastering the competencies on the checklist provided by the AAMA to ensure all cognitive, psychomotor and affective competencies are covered. Medical Assisting is a unique program because unlike most health care programs students are trained in both administrative and clinical procedures, said McClain. Medical assisting duties are a good mix of clinical and administrative work, she explained. Graduates are cross trained in every area of ambulatory care. Their duties range from hands-on patient care, under physician and nursing supervision, to front office duties. Clinical training includes checking a patient’s vital signs, phlebotomy, giving medications, EKGs, laboratory work, specimen collection and processing and assisting with minor surgical procedures. They also are certified in first aid and CPR while in the program. “It’s an unusual discipline with a strong administrative function including insurance coding and claims processing,” she said. “During the externships, we try to place our students in a family medicine practice so they will get experience ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics, but specialty practices are also used. This produces a well-rounded graduate. Our partners often remark how prepared and ready our students are. They want to continue to have our students in their practicums and they continue to employ them after graduation, which is high praise,” said McClain. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (2020), employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 23% from 2018 to 2028. “I have employers calling me every week looking for CMAs,” said McClain. Tri-County’s Medical Assisting program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs through 2029.
Campus Police Recognized at Annual Banquet Sgt. Albert Named Officer of the Year Sgt William (Billy) Albert was named Campus Police Officer of the Year at an annual awards and recognition banquet held September 16. This year Sgt. Albert has overseen the College’s Sgt William (Billy) Albert, left, was named Campus Police Officer of the Year process leading to attaining South Carolina Law at an annual awards and recognition banquet held September 16. Chief Enforcement Accreditation Marcus Guess presented the award. (SCLEA) which recognizes dedication, excellence, and professionalism in South Carolina law enforcement. Approval by SCLEA would make TCTC the first technical college in the system to achieve that status. “The hours and hours of time you have invested in writing and rewriting policies and procedures and aligning your work and equipment to those policies and procedures is about to pay off,” said Cara Hamilton, vice president for business affairs. “Sgt. Albert has led this initiative with focus and determination even when the task was daunting and seemed insurmountable. When the TCTC Police Department goes through the final step of the accreditation process, I am confident you will be fully accredited and join an elite group of police departments across the state with that honor and the only one in the South Carolina Technical College System.”
Other recognitions: Sgt. Albert, Sgt. Jeremiah Vissage, Officer Mike Eppes, Officer David King, Officer Patrick Kingbaum and Security Officer Daphne Miller received perfect attendance awards.
Campus Police officers gather for a group photo.
TCTC Human Resources Coordinator Julia Lee received the community service award for taking cash she found on the ground to campus police who later located the student and returned to him. IT staff members Nathan Geary, Jason Hart and Wesley Reynolds were recognized for their collaborative efforts when the College received a threat earlier this year. “Your response, engagement and collaboration within the department, with IT and external law enforcement agencies when the College was threatened earlier this year was exemplary,” said Hamilton. “It was a team effort led by Chief Guess and Sergeant Shaun Chastain. The department handled the situation over several weeks with patience, poise and perseverance never wavering with the goal of protecting the College’s employees and students and apprehending the suspect. You achieved both and learned a lot in the process that will serve the department and the College well going forward,” said Hamilton. “Your commitment to professional development and training is second to none,” she added, recognizing newly-promoted Sgt. Jeremiah Vissage, who leads those two efforts.
Leadership TCTC Cohorts Graduate A celebration was held on September 27 in recognition of the graduates of the most recent Leadership TCTC program. Leadership TCTC is a 10-session program aimed at helping our leaders develop a solid foundation of leadership competencies that can help move the College forward. The participants were taught by subject matter experts from across the College. Participants were placed in groups and showcased their knowledge gained from the program by presenting a capstone project to the Executive Staff team. The spring Leadership TCTC cohort is pictured from left (front row): Lori Mulzer, Hannah Fakoornejad, Chris Maddox, Meredith Dickens, and Thomas Hudgins; and (back row) Ashley Brady, Bob White, Richard Burton, Eddie McCall and Rodney Estrada. Not pictured are Jonathan Chastain, Randee Dorontich and Justin Herndon. September/October 2022 | 5
LC 101 Offers Engagement, Inspiration, and Lasting Connections By Mia Tensley, Faculty Development Liaison, Office of Academic Development
From navigating and leveraging student differences in the classroom to using resources for student learning and success, new TCTC faculty members learned ways to enhance their teaching while building lasting relationships during the most recent LC 101: Working and Teaching in Our Learning College cohort. LC 101 is sponsored by the Office of Academic Development and facilitated by Mia Tensley, faculty development liaison. LC 101 aims to provide new fulltime faculty an opportunity to integrate into the TCTC culture throughout their first semester. Faculty group meetings are used to encourage faculty to implement diverse teaching and learning strategies that promote both the acquisition and application of knowledge and understanding in an attempt to foster student success in the classroom. LC 101 is possible because of College-wide LC 101 Cohort collaboration. For example, Scott Harvey opened the series with a training on Banner for student record management. Next, participants took part in a workshop on learner-centered classroom strategies conducted Dr. Amoena Norcross, curriculum consultant in the office of Academic Development, and me. The next session featured a talk by Hannah Fakoornejad and Tracey Hotham on how the Learning Commons can collaborate with instructors to support student learning. A subsequent discussion on using Outlook, Office 365, and Teams was led by Michelle Jacobson, and a student support and engagement overview was provided by Linda Jameison, Dr. Mark Dougherty, and Lauren McClellan. Alex Fiscus addressed classroom engagement tools offered by the Office of Academic Development, and effective behavioral management strategies was the topic of Travis Durham’s highly-engaging presentation. The group was led through outcomes and assessment by Robin Long, while Career and Employability Resources was the topic of Rodney Estrada’s interactive presentation. Tasheka Wright concluded the sessions with two weeks of training on the use of advisor tools and resources to enhance student achievement.
Success Teams On the first day of LC 101, faculty members are divided into success teams and are encouraged to form groups with colleagues from across the College. Faculty members in the fall cohort had varied work experiences before coming to TCTC. During sessions, the life and career experiences of participants proved to be beneficial as they shared prior knowledge and exchanged classroom engagement strategies tailored to their content areas. As a result of establishing a sense of belonging, instructional sessions were not a one-way street but insightful, collaborative conversations.
Building relationships One of the desired outcomes of LC 101 is relationship building. During an initial mixer, faculty were able to find surprising commonalities and bond. In fact, many of the participants have elected to spend time together not only outside of LC 101 but also after work hours for fellowship. In fact, one group’s participants, who coined themselves “Ladies Night 101,” built the concept into their team contract. They elected to include, “Meet for at least one supportive social meeting outside of class to check in with each other this semester” as part of their contract.
Participant Feedback How did participants feel about LC 101 this semester? In a reflection activity, English instructor Betty Stack, shared, “The first week of official classroom time, in sharing learning strategies and best practices, has been a relaxing opportunity to begin the onboarding process at TCTC.” Kevin Daily, speech instructor, remarked, “I believe that LC 101 is a tremendous opportunity for new, full-time faculty members to become acquainted with the College’s essential components. It also affords the opportunity to interact with both novice and veteran colleagues. All in all, the course is excellent.” Carl Riedl, chemistry instructor, shared, “I appreciate the high energy Mia always showed in LC101.” Delisa Simon-Dawkins, program director for Administrative Office Technology and Business Studies instructor, shared, “Although the LC 101 experience was an opportunity to learn more about the services and culture of the organization; for me, the greatest takeaway is learning along with my new colleagues and knowing we can be a resource for each other.”
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Medical Assisting Receives Donation Clemson Pediatrics donated a new pediatric scale to the Medical Assisting program. Office Manager Sherry Bramlett, second from left, commented to Program Director Laura McClain, far right, how pleased they are with the caliber of well-prepared students rotating through their offices each year and they continue to employ them after graduation.
Kelley Engineering Visits ITC
Pictured from left to right are Dr. Andy Wills, Sherry Bramlett, Dr. Antoinette Bannister, and Laura McClain.
Stairs Between Cleveland and Wilson Halls Being Replaced Following feedback from students and employees, the stairs between Cleveland and Wilson halls are being replaced. These stairs and those at Oconee Hall service about 50% of our student parking. The new design will be easier to climb with lower heights and wider steps. The new stairway will include landings with seating areas, LED lighting, charging ports, improved drainage and new landscaping. Once completed, in six weeks, these will create a more welcoming and inviting impression to our students. After completion of the Oconee Hall renovation, those stairs also will be updated to reflect this new standard.
Representatives from Kelley Engineering visited the Industrial Technology Center (ITC) on September 15 to meet with CNC and Welding faculty. Matt Kelley, CEO of Kelley Engineering, Travis Middleton, vice president of operations, and Luke Broadwell and Nathan Bullock from the Piedmont-based company met with Paul Phelps and Daniel Harbin who represent our Welding and CNC programs. Both Broadwell and Bullock are Tri-County graduates and serve in leadership positions at Kelley Engineering which employs a number of other graduates from our Welding and machining programs. “Your facilities and instructors are absolutely top notch,” Kelley said. “What we like about the College is that Tri-County grows the whole person,” added Middleton. Kelley Engineering specializes in designing and building custom automation equipment as well as providing CNC machining and metal fabrication services to a variety of industries.
Learning Commons Receives Grant This summer, the Learning Commons received a grant from South Carolina Affordable Learning which is an initiative of PASCAL, the Partnership for South Carolina Academic Libraries. The grant is intended to raise awareness, adoption, and access to a range of affordable learning initiatives, including Open Educational Resources, across SC institutions, and to advance educational outcomes for students by removing cost barriers associated with course materials, like textbooks and other ancillary materials. TCTC, along with 56 other colleges and universities across the state, are members of PASCAL.
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Foundation News AT&T Continues Support of I-BEST Program AT&T awarded Tri-County Technical College’s Foundation $10,000 to support the I-BEST (Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training) program, which is designed to prepare students for entrylevel jobs in highdemand fields and the further postsecondary education needed for career growth and advancement. The program blends college credit, non-credit training and industry-recognized skills certifications. The I-BEST program is designed to increase the College’s focus on unemployed and underemployed populations. It is a one-semester program that allows students to explore careers in manufacturing, health care or a stand-alone course for college and career exploration opportunities. The program offers opportunities to earn college credit and national (industry-recognized) skill certifications. I-BEST reduces barriers to higher education for under-resourced populations by covering costs like tuition, fees, books, and supplies and by providing wrap-around support services to address out-of-class needs.
President’s Cup Tournament Raises Record $80,230 The President’s Cup golf tournament held October 4 raised a record-breaking $80,230 for the College’s priority needs. A team representing Agracel, Inc., was named the tournament champions with the winning score of 52. We appreciate the support of all of our players, sponsors and volunteers.
The team representing Agracel, Inc., was named the tournament champions with a winning score of 52.
Foundation Hosts Annual Abney Day Celebration Since 1989 The Abney Foundation has been providing resources to Tri-County’s students, faculty, and staff to help them achieve their educational goals. No other foundation, individual, or company has contributed so generously to the Foundation. The TCTC Foundation sponsored its Annual Abney Day on September 29. The event was designed to show appreciation for the College’s largest contributor to date. Recipients gathered to say thank you to The Abney Foundation’s Executive Director Dr. Lisa McWherter for providing funds to support their education. “Congratulations on being chosen as an Abney scholar. We are excited to be a small part of your academy journey,” Dr. McWherter said. “Make the most of your academic experience. It will pay dividends to Pictured are Dr. Lisa McWherter and the Abney Scholars. 8 | CONNECTION
you for years to come. I urge you to give your best to your studies and to your community.” “Education has the power to transform lives,” said President DeHay, who was the recipient of an Abney scholarship during his freshman year at Clemson University. “It allows you the opportunity to be an active citizen to make the community grow and thrive. We’re so proud of you.”
Anderson-Oconee-Pickens Showcase Spotlights Careers In this year’s return to a face-to-face event, Tri-County joined other organizations from our area to engage with more than 5,000 eighth graders from the tri-counties in the Anderson-Oconee-Pickens Showcase, a two-day event at the Anderson Civic Center. The event is designed to help young people understand the decisions they need to make now in order to thrive in their future careers. Gayle Arries, Dan Cooper and Jessica Raymond represent TCTC on the AOP Showcase Board. Many thanks to all who participated.
The students enjoyed the simulators and interactive spaces from our Engineering and Industrial Technology, Business and Public Services, and Health Education divisions, as well as great conversations with Career and Employability Resources, Dual Enrollment, and Recruitment, Admissions and Orientation.
On the first day, Governor Henry McMaster toured the event and spoke about the success of manufacturing to our state and proclaimed October as S.C. Manufacturing Month.
Oconee Campus Hosts Cultural Competency Workshop The Oconee Campus was the site for a personal and professional development cultural competency training on September 23. Several of our faculty and staff participated in this workshop that is designed to provide individuals and working professionals with information and action steps that allow for increased cultural competency/humility along the lines of race, equity, and inclusion to best address the needs and strengths of communities. By understanding the human experiences of others through multiple lenses, this session provided new ways to be better equipped to interact and engage with the wide range of diverse communities that make up South Carolina’s landscape. This workshop is part of Voces Comunitarias, an annual grassroots event that relocates every year.
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Our College Family In Transition Easley Campus Megan Whitaker is the Student Services Coordinator at the Easley Campus. Whitaker comes to us from a 15-year career at Presbyterian College, where she worked in Compliance and Academic Services in the Athletic Department in several roles, most recently as the Associate Director. She began at Presbyterian as Assistant Volleyball Coach. Whitaker holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English (with a creative writing concentration) from Illinois College. She and her husband, Simon, have two children, Clair, 5, and Alice, 2. They live in Easley.
Arts and Sciences Division Thomas Joseph (T.J.) Lipinski is an Astronomy and Physics instructor. He comes to us from Winthrop University where he taught astronomy and physics for 16 years. He previously spent six years in the U.S. Navy as an Electronics Technician. Lipinski holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from San Diego State University and a Master of Science degree in Physics from Purdue University. He and his wife, Mindy Hervey Lipinski, live in Anderson. They have two adult children, Logan and Kyle.
Information Technology Michael (Mike) Blizzard is the Director of IT Services Delivery. He served as Technical Services Manager for the City of Greenville for the past 10 years. Prior to that he was IT Director for the Radiology Group for two years, Systems Administrator for the City of Greenville for two years, and IT Manager for Yoder’s Building Supply for six years. Blizzard holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from Clemson University. He serves as vice president of the Municipal Technology Association of S.C. board. He and his wife, Allison, have two children, Lydia, 12, and Charity, 9. They live in Townville.
Financial Aid Tasha Morgan is the Assistant Director of Financial Aid. Since 2006 she has worked at Southern Wesleyan University (SWU), most recently as Director of Financial Aid. Other roles include Assistant Director of Financial Aid and Compliance Analyst. Prior to that she was an accountant for James L. Bowen, CPA. Morgan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from SWU and a Master’s of Accounting degree from Liberty University. Morgan is a member of the SC Association of Financial Aid Administrators, the Southern Association of Financial Aid Administrators and the National Association of Financial Aid Administrators. She was named SWU’s staff member of the month earlier this year. She and her husband, Garrett, have a son, Liam, age. 7. They live in Easley.
Excellence through Service Jay Sloan Recognized as Certified Maintenance Manager Jay Sloan, Maintenance and Reliability program manager in the Corporate and Community Education Division, was recently recognized as a Certified Maintenance Manager by Clemson University and Lifecycle Engineering in Charleston. Over the past quarter, he attended the prerequisite courses and passed an assessment covering all aspects of Industrial Maintenance Management.
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During his 20 years at the College, Sloan taught and developed programs, such as Mechatronics and Operator Optimization, as well as many other technical skills classes for the manufacturing industry. Beginning in October, in addition to hands-on Maintenance and Reliability courses such as Fluid Power, PLCs, Electrical and Robotics, Sloan will incorporate these newest concepts into course offerings made available to the area’s professional maintenance managers and leaders.
Career and Employability Resources Leanne Cobb is the Career Counselor in the Career and Employability Resources Department. She was Business Services Coordinator for the SC Department of Employment and Workforce for the past 12 years. Cobb holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a master’s degree in secondary education from the University of South Carolina. She also has a Career Development Facilitator Certification from the SC Department of Employment and Workforce. Cobb served on the Foothills Alliance Board of Directors from 2014 through 2018 and held offices of president, vice president and secretary. She and her husband, Paul, have a daughter, Avery, 4. They live in Anderson.
Campus Police Mandy McAbee is a police officer with our Campus Police Department. She comes to us from the Furman University Police Department where she worked for 24 years. She also has worked for the Greenville County Forensics Department and started her law enforcement career at Clemson University. McAbee has a son, Sam, 18. She lives in Six Mile.
I-BEST David Moore is the Director of the I-BEST program. He spent most of his professional life working for Habitat for Humanity in various locations and positions from 2003 through 2018. He served as the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Anderson County from 2015 to 2018. He later transitioned to the LOT Project, a homeless ministry and community development organization in Anderson, where he served as Director of Operations and then as Executive Director. In 2019 Moore was recognized as one of Anderson’s Top 20 Under 40 and was named the Rotarian of the Year by the Rotary Club of Greater Anderson in 2021. He served as past president and past secretary of the Rotary Club and currently is a CART committee chair. He served on the board of New Covenant School in Anderson from 2018 until 2020 and was
team leader for Habitat for Humanity’s Global Village program from 2007 until 2014. Moore holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from Clemson University and a master’s of Business Administration from Gardner-Webb University. He and his wife, Melissa, have one child, Finley. They live in Anderson.
Corporate and Community Education Lillian Barfield is the Training Coordinator for the Corporate and Community Education Division. She comes to the college from Winthrop University where she was Social Media Strategist. In 2017 she was a Guest Service Representative for Ashley Furniture in Anderson. Barfield holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English from Winthrop. Her works of poetry and fiction have been published in creative writing magazines. Barfield is Social Media Manager for Crossroads Fellowship Church. She lives in Honea Path.
Business and Public Services DeLisa Simon-Dawkins is the Administrative Office Technology Program Director/Business instructor. Simon-Dawkins holds a bachelor’s degree in health science (health education emphasis) from the Medical University of South Carolina and an MBA in marketing and marketing research from Strayer University. She also holds a Medical Laboratory Technology degree and a diploma in Dental Assisting from Greenville Technical College. For the last three years, she served as a flight attendant/inflight trainer for Frontier Airlines. Prior to that she was a member of the faculty at Spartanburg Community College and the University of South Carolina-Upstate where she taught business studies. Since April 2015 she has been a residential and luxury real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty, Greenville Upstate and Realty One Group Freedom and Realty One Group Terminus. From 2013 until 2015 she was Senior Market Manager for Community Engagement for the American Cancer Society. She was Community Outreach Coordinator for Spartanburg Regional Health System from 2009 until 2014. She is a member of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and the MUSC College of Health Related Professions Alumni. She has two adult children, Donovan, and Destiny. She lives in Simpsonville.
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AOT Partners with Predestined Outreach The Administrative Office Technology (AOT) program partnered with Predestined Outreach, a non-profit organization in Easley, and presented “The Exciting World of Office Administration!” to eight students from Easley High School and Gettys Middle School (who are in their afterschool program).
The session took place on October 11 at the Easley Campus and was led by Dr. Carolyn Walker, AOT program director, and Lisa Styles, administrative specialist at the Easley Campus. Many thanks to Tonya Mayes, founder and director of Predestined Outreach, for her support of AOT and TCTC.
Second Annual Health Education Division Student and Faculty Conference More than 200 students attended the second annual Health Education Division Conference on October 4. The keynote speaker was Michael Bryan, master deputy at the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, whose speech was titled, “Internet Never Forgets.” Health Education Division students presented posters on mental health and cancer prevention topics following the keynote address. “The level of participation in the poster session and attendance at the keynote speaker address indicated that the conference was a huge success,” said Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry, dean of the Health Education Division. “The annual conference provides a platform for all students and faculty in the Health Education Division to come together to hear presentations from experts, learn about the project work that our students are doing, and engage in professional networking outside of their departments and programs.”
Pet Adoption Is November 18 TCTC’s Veterinary Technology Department will hold a Public Wide Pet Adoption on Friday, November 18, 2 -5 p.m. at Halbert Hall on the Pendleton Campus. All animals are on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to insurance regulations, we do not allow other animals on the premises and we can’t show any animals before adoption day. The adoption fee is $45 cash or check only. This fee includes the animal being spayed/ neutered, microchipped with registration, up-to-date on vaccines, and current on heartworm and flea prevention. Dogs have been started on basic commands and leash manners and cats have been socialized. If you have any questions about any of our animals, please contact our Adoption Coordinator at sbrown6@tctc.edu. 12 | CONNECTION
Students Discover Opportunities at Employment Fair Elliott Davis was among the businesses and companies who participated in the annual Student Employment Fair August 29 in the Student Success Center. On- and off-campus opportunities were available to our students who came prepared with resumes. Here Ben Baker of Westminster, a Media Arts Production major, right, talks with Tiffany Miller, Angela Ford, Amber Baker and Denise Bailey from Elliott Davis. Bailey, who is a partner with the company, is an alumni ambassador for the College and has served on and chaired the Business Advisory Committee for years.
Faculty Senate Holds Monthly Meetings The Faculty Senate is a group of 25 individuals from all disciplines who come together and discuss pressing issues and needs of the College. Its goals are to coordinate the efforts of the entire faculty, to maintain morale and to further the understanding between the faculty and the administration. They are able to accomplish this by bringing to the administration for action any such matters that affect the welfare of faculty members and the academic policies of the institution. The Faculty Senate, chaired by Stacey Frank, holds monthly meetings. The next meeting is Friday, November 18, in SSC 205 from 12:30 p.m. until 2 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. Please come and share your voice with the Faculty Senate.
LC 101 Offers Engagement, Inspiration, and Connections (continued from page 6)
Foster Sims, Mechatronics Instructor, said, “I have enjoyed LC 101 and have made wonderful friends with my success team.” At the conclusion of LC 101, participants discussed not only their positive experiences but also ways to improve the course for subsequent cohorts. As a past LC 101 participant, I feel privileged to have the opportunity to facilitate these sessions, and I eagerly anticipate the beginning of the spring cohort. Pictured left, DeLisa Simon-Dawkins, Betty Stack, and Carrie MCCaslin
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Cornell Dubilier Named Philanthropist of the Year (continued from page 1)
Jack L. Ford Endowed Scholarship in honor of one of its longtime engineering managers at the Liberty plant. (Ford, who passed away in 2017, served the company for 62 years as an industrial engineer until his retirement in 2009.) In 2018 the company contributed $50,000 to establish a second scholarship, the Ken Thomas Endowed Scholarship Fund, to honor another longtime employee who attended TCTC in 1971. Three years later, Cornell Dubilier made a $100,000 commitment to continue supporting the fund. The recipient of these scholarships must be enrolled in an Engineering and Industrial Technology program and be a Pickens County resident with financial need. “Jack and Ken both have been dedicated engineering managers with incredible work ethics,” said Kaplan. “Ken, at age 84, is still employed full time and is the first in the plant and many days the last to leave. He is the longest-standing employee at all Cornell Dubilier plants. He sets an example for everyone. Ken is admired and respected by everyone at the plant.” “Cornell Dubilier has been a great partner to the College in support of the scholarships for Pickens County residents and other priority needs,” said Kelly.
Kaplan said he looks to TCTC to supply a pipeline of technicians in the areas of welding, maintenance and supervision. “TCTC is the best educational value in the state. Scholarships are so important. As these endowments grow, they enable more individuals to be able to go to college at no cost,” said Kaplan. In addition to supporting scholarships, Cornell Dubilier has a tuition reimbursement program and many of its technical employees take advantage of advancing their skills by earning TCTC degrees and certifications. “It makes good sense to support the College so our Pickens County residents can benefit from these scholarships,” Kaplan said. “We rely on TCTC graduates to fill important technical positions. We encourage associates to consider enrolling for the first time or returning to college at TCTC to help advance their careers and our company as well,” said Kaplan. In addition, Cornell Dubilier has been a faithful supporter of College and Foundation special events, including the President’s Cup golf tournament and in 2011 a $25,000 contribution to support the TCTC Easley Campus Priority Needs Endowment. To date, Cornell Dubilier has given a total of $235,500.
Ruthie Millar Receives 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award (continued from page 1)
“I can see why Ruthie was chosen as TCTC’s distinguished alumna recipient. She is one of the College’s best ambassadors. When she talks about Tri-County, you want to hear about her great experiences. Ruthie has a contagious, welcoming personality and is one of the kindest people I know. There’s no hug like a hug from Ruthie Millar. We’ve been friends for 30 years. She is a jewel of a friend to me and to Tri-County Technical College.” Although Millar began college at Lander University after graduating from Seneca High School in 1986, and will complete her bachelor’s degree in business administration in May of 2023, she says her TCTC marketing degree stands out. “I’m proud to receive the Lander degree years later, but the TCTC degree stands out because of its everyday real-world applications that are taught by instructors who are career professionals,” said Millar. “At least once a month I am reminded of the value of the insight of many marketing instructors who said, ‘Always know your customer inside and out – it’s how you can best help them.’” Millar says she incorporated those strategies in her six years as director of memberships for the Clemson Chamber of Commerce and in her current position at Clemson Downs. Millar didn’t start her career as a marketing professional; instead she began as a small business manager and owner. She managed a small café in Pendleton for several years and later owned a jewelry
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shop for a decade on the square downtown. “I’m an Oconee native but Pendleton became my home,” said Millar. A year later, she joined TCTC’s Corporate and Community Education (CCE) Division as parttime evening receptionist. “I enjoyed engaging with people and getting to know them. Not long after I began, former CCE Dean Neil Lark told me marketing was my niche and I should pursue it.” When she accepted a job in the TCTC marketing office, she enrolled in evening classes so she could better serve the students and customers in the community. “I really enjoyed the outreach aspect where I was able to interact with high schools and community partners,” she said. “I discovered a love for marketing and TCTC. I found myself telling the TCTC story because as a student, I had such a wonderful experience in the classroom and as an employee.” When the opportunity arose to join the Clemson Downs team she said, “I couldn’t turn it down. I love my job and my relationships with the residents and the community. I learn something new every day from our residents’ life experiences.” She maintains a constant connection with TCTC through the Clemson Downs staff, many of whom are either students or graduates. “One third of our certified nurse aides are TCTC graduates. We rely on TCTC and its programs to enhance the care we provide to our residents. If our employees receive an education at Tri-County, we know they will be exceptional employees,” she said.
Tri-County Continues To Celebrate Its 60 Years In each issue of Connection throughout 2022, we will celebrate the College’s diamond anniversary through photos and fun facts to highlight the events which have shaped the College into the role model for community college education that it is today.
Anderson Campus Becomes a Reality in 2005
The vision for a campus convenient to the Anderson County community became a reality December 2, 2005, when officials broke ground on the future site of the College’s first community campus. Located on a 38.95-acre piece of property near the intersection of Standridge Road and Michelin Boulevard, the campus was made possible by the commitment of then-President Dr. Ronnie Booth, the College Commission, and the Foundation Board to find alternative sources of funding for the purchase of this land and for the construction of the first building. (Once the approval process began, the College Foundation Finance Committee voted to establish a limited liability corporation (LLC) to purchase, develop, and lease property to the College.) Tri-County Technical College’s second campus opened its doors to the Anderson community March 1, 2007, and community members joined President Booth, the faculty and staff, and state and local leaders in dedicating the facility. The campus serves several of the College’s goals by bringing its services closer to Anderson residents, increasing community involvement, and expanding educational opportunities. Both credit and non-credit programs are offered at the facility.
of the College’s Easley Campus. The dedication ceremony was held December 10, 2010, and the first classes were held in the spring of 2011.
Industrial Technology Center
The 43,000-square-foot Industrial Technology Center (ITC), located in Sandy Springs, opened January 14, 2013. The ITC houses the Welding and CNC programs. It was specifically designed to mimic a real-world industrial setting.
Oconee Campus
Easley Campus
In May 2009, legislators, county council members, and local business leaders joined College officials in breaking ground on a 37.51-acre piece of property on Powdersville Road that is the site
College officials joined Oconee County partners on July 14, 2017, to break ground on the Oconee Campus, the first building to be constructed on the site of the future Oconee County Workforce Development Center. The Oconee Industry and Technology Park, located on Highway 11 in Westminster, co-locates an Oconee Campus of Tri-County Technical College, a new Career Center servicing the Oconee County School District, and industry. The result is an unique center for technical education, work-based learning and economic development. The project is a partnership between Tri-County Technical College, the School District of Oconee County, and Oconee County. The Oconee Campus opened fall semester, 2018.
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P. O. Box 587 Pendleton, SC 29670 tctc.edu
Duke Energy Supports Power Line Training Program Duke Energy made a $20,000 donation to Tri-County Technical College’s Foundation in support of its Power Line Worker training program. The program was initially funded through a $1 million Duke Energy workforce development grant across the state and now is offered by the College’s Corporate and Community Education Division at no cost through workforce scholarships and support from grants and local business and industry partners. Here, students who completed the Level I Power Line Worker certification class pose with Emily DeRoberts, district manager, S.C. government and community relations team, Duke Energy, center, and College officials following a rodeo where students showcased their skills for potential employers who are looking to fill these in-demand job across the state. To learn more about the power line worker program, visit tctc.edu/power.
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