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M THE MONTAGE

Spencer Gleason Cory Montero Cassie Kibens Rebecca Biundo Jake Hunn Justin Villmer

Livie Hall Ryan Obradovic Jason Jamison Dalila Kahvedzic Marissa Diercks David Kloeckener Bill Gezella Shannon Philpott

Editor in Chief Managing Editor Emeritus Production Mgr. Emeritus In-Depth Editor Emeritus Graphic Editor Emeritus Copy Editor Emeritus Managing Editor Opinions Editor Sports Editor Asst. Art & Life Editor In-Depth Editor Photo Editor Copy Editor Faculty Adviser

Darla Storm Staff Photographer Dennis Parks Staff Writer Billy Gardner Staff Writer Editorial views expressed or content contained in this publication are not necessarily the views of St. Louis Community College, the board of trustees or the administration. The Montage is a student publication produced seven times per semester at St. Louis Community College - Meramec, 11333 Big Bend Blvd., Kirkwood, Mo., 63122. (314) 984-7655. One copy of The Montage is free of charge. Up to 10 additional copies available, $1 each, at the office of The Montage, SC 220. Bulk purchases may be arranged with circulation manager. To place an advertisement, contact the advertising manager for rates, sample issues, etc., (314)984-7955.

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Table of

CONTENTS Letter From the Editor | Page 5

That 70’s Section

‘Bye, Bye, Bye’

‘Since U Been Gone’

‘ That 70s Section

August means school is starting and summer has come to an end. It is time to boogie down and hit the books once again. Whether it is the first semester or last, college can be difficult and scary, but it is also the strong tool that catapults students into successful adulthood. This section allows new students to get to know Meramec’s campus and the great opportunities it offers. Both new and current students can familiarize themselves with the financial aid process and get to know advisers.

Bust the myths of high school and get the answers to embarrassing questions students are too afraid to ask. Find your way around campus with our groovy map. Getting started is not always easy but we have the tips and tricks. Can you dig it? College is supposed to be one of the best times of your life, however its challenges can be stressful. With this guide, you can conquer college through helpful instructions in an exciting way. After all, you are in the seventies. Peace, love and “Back to School.” THAT 70’S SECTION

A T

M E R A M E C

The Music Program at Meramec offers courses and ensembles for all students. Classes are available for general education credit and the Associate in Arts degree with an emphasis in Music to prepare for transfer into a Bachelor of Music program. ** SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE **

COURSES

MUS 101,102,201,202 MUS 103 MUS 113 MUS 114 MUS 115,116 MUS 121,122,221,222 MUS 128 MUS 130 MUS 138,139,216 MUS 141,142,241,242 MUS 150 MUS 211,212

Music Theory I,II,III,IV Basic Music The History of Jazz The Enjoyment of Music Class Voice I,II Class Piano I,II,III,IV Survey of Rock Music Beginning Guitar Jazz Improvisation I,II,III Applied Music (Lessons) I,II,III,IV Fundamentals of Music Technology Music History I,II

Interested in performing in an ensemble? All Meramec students may participate. No audition is required!

ENSEMBLES

Music 132 – Orchestra Music 133 – Jazz Lab Band Music 134 – Symphonic Band Music 135 – Concert Choir, Chamber Singers and Voices of Magic jazz choir All ensembles hold a seat/part assignment hearing during the first rehearsal. Members of the Concert Choir may audition for the Chamber Singers and/or the Voices of Magic jazz choir.

For more information, contact the Meramec Music Department Gary Gackstatter, Director of Instrumental Music, ggackstatter@stlcc.edu, (314) 984-7636 Dr. Jerry Myers, Director of Choral Activities & Music Theory, gmyers34@stlcc.edu, (314) 984-7638

Letter from the Editor: SPENCER GLEASON EDITOR IN CHIEF Since The Montage first began producing the BackTo-School Guide, in 2010, it has helped educate numerous students on the ins-and-outs of the Meramec campus. This 2014-15 Back To School Guide promises to do the same. Whether you are a wide-eyed 18-year old student or a non-traditional student, this book will help guide you throughout your time here, at Meramec; as this will cover what you will need to know before you arrive at Meramec, while you are here and when you leave. Our last section will provide newsworthy nuggets of the past academic year. For the students moving on, this book

will be a keepsake item of your time spent as part of the STLCC and Meramec family. Meramec is the community’s school and Meramec students will help the community grow. The Montage’s Back To School Guide is a tool that will help you on your way. The Montage is a 100-percent student run staff. The publications are produced by students, for students. The collection of information and stories inside this Back To School Guide is material that students believed was necessary to share to help everyone succeed at Meramec. Throughout the school year, The Montage will provide unbiased truths through accurate journalism about Meramec and STLCC throughout. The care and dedication that went into producing the

2014-15 Back-To-School Guide will be the same type of care and dedication that we will bring to our readership throughout the year. As the student newspaper of Meramec, The Montage vows to bring you breaking news about your school and the effects of decisions by STLCC on the student body. We will have the latest STLCC sports coverage from Meramec and the sister campuses, encompassing the STLCC Archer athletic family. We will share engaging stories of people just like you and me. We will allow you – the reader – a voice.

What’s Inside:

Getting started at STLCC Meramec

page 7

Spencer Gleason, Editor In Chief

Take a lunch break in Kirkwood

Get Social

page 25

{

Sincerely,

Meramec graduate, Rachel Zink

page 32

A look back on the 2013-2014 school year

page 40

Visit www.meramecmontage.com ‘Like’ The Montage on Facebook Follow @TheMontage on Twitter THAT 70’S SECTION

Get Groovin’: 6 Easy Steps to Get Started Follow this guide to prepare for a new year at a new school LIVIE HALL MANAGING EDITOR

1.) Apply Begin applying to potential colleges as soon as possible. Set short and long term goals. Remember, it is okay to not have a major picked out right off the bat. Meramec is the perfect place to get those general education courses out of the way.

2.) You Got In Once accepted, get to know advisers and the campus. Meet with a financial aid representative and learn what options are available to make school as simple and affordable as it can be.

3.) Get Involved Meramec has many clubs and organizations to be a part of. Find something interesting and try it out. Meeting new people not only makes the transition to a new school easier, but friends can help answer questions.

4.) Get a Student ID & Parking Tag Go to Campus Life on the second floor of the Student Center before classes start to get your free student ID and parking tag. That is one less thing to worry about. Also, “free” cannot be stressed enough. This is college, take advantage.

5.) Shop for School Supplies Sure, middle school was the peak for buying school stuff, but that does not mean it cannot be done in college. Take school seriously, but still have fun. Get a Ninja Turtle backpack and some gel pens because it is going to get crazy.

6.) Do Not Become Overwhelmed College is a lot of work. Remember to prioritize. Do not put things off until the last minute. Both work and school are obligations, organization is key. Be aware of the responsibilities while also remembering to take time for relaxation. JAKE HUNN GRAPHICS EDITOR

THAT 70’S SECTION

Around Campus

Dance Your Way

Navigating around a new school can be tough especially when classes are spread throughout different buildings on campus. While Meramec’s campus may be smaller than the average university’s, it still can be hard for new students to find that perfect routeHarum to dolum fugit, tem hitianit faccae sequodi temquiatias class. Use this map to help ea as reiunt vel explat pra quasit plaborro consedignat aut hilon those first few days.luptas doluptatur simpore rrorio. Met qui culpa quatis dolup-

THAT 70’S SECTION

comm. north

comm. south

THAT 70’S SECTION

JOIN THE TEAM The Meramec Montage wants YOU to:

WRITE Some experience? No experience? All aspiring writers welcome! Just ask a friendly staffer at the next meeting for some tips and tricks on writing for The Montage. Join our weekly Tuesday staff meetings at 5 p.m. in the Student Center, Room 220A.

TAKE PHOTOS

DESIGN The Montage could not even be distributed if we did not have such a great and talented design team. If you have an eye for design, consider hanging out with us on Tuesday production nights and learn the tools of the InDesign trade.

All shutter-bugs are welcome to join our award-winning photography staff. Work with our photo editor to add visuals to the paper and entice the reader.

314-984-7655 meramecmontage@gmail.com www.meramecmontage.com

Get Jivin’

With Financial Aid BILL GEZELLA COPY EDITOR

First-time students who are about to attend STLCCMeramec with the assistance of financial aid might find themselves falling to certain stresses incurred in the process of enrolling. While financial aid is necessary for many, the process requires attention to detail and adherence to deadlines.

What if financial aid does not go through? For instance, it is required that students for classes prior to any potential aid is disbursed. In addition, financial aid awards are not applied toward the classes enrolled in until approximately five weeks into attendance. Serious students might find themselves quite on edge until everything has gone through in the first semester. While registering for classes, there very well might be thoughts of “What if financial aid doesn’t go through for some reason?” or “What if I suddenly find myself enrolled in classes that I cannot afford?” Meramec student Nikki Greene is no stranger to the stressors of fulfilling financial aid requirements. She said working through the financial aid process at another institution was “the worst experience ever.” “The process would sometimes take half-a-day’s wait just to be seen by a faculty member. The staff was rude and not very helpful. I remember that [when registering for] one semester the front desk was so

overwhelmed that they simply took my paperwork and just set it to the side. Needless to say, my documents did not get turned-in on time. My encounter at Meramec was totally different. The entire process took about an hour, and the faculty members were very informative and helpful, not to mention very nice,” Greene said. When she first began attending, financial aid awards were distributed on the first day of class. Those days are over; students now wait about 5-6 weeks into the semester before financial aid is distributed. “I completely understand why they choose to disperse payments this way - one bad apple spoils the bunch,” Greene said. “I feel that this rule should apply to new students, but not to the students who have been enrolled for multiple semesters and have shown dedication. The good thing is that true students know the real payment is when you walk across the stage knowing that the goal has been accomplished.” Greene recommends students working through the financial aid process begin to

What if I cannot afford classes? set goals early. “Financial aid will only pay for classes a certain number of times, so working hard and keeping your GPA up should be the priority. Know what you plan to major in and be sure about it. There are so

PHOTO BY: DAVID KLOECKENER The Financial aid office is located on the first floor of Clark Hall. It is pertinent to be aware of all deadlines while filing for financial aid as the office will not make exceptions for late applications.

many students that would not be in college if not for financial aid, so be grateful to have the opportunity to attend, and do not take it lightly,” she said. Though enrolling with financial aid can seem intimidating the first time through, Meramec’s faculty and staff, web resources and in-print tools located on-campus will undoubtedly serve to prove as strong assistants in the process of enrolling. Welcome aboard – here is to furthering your education. • Be aware of all deadlines The Financial Aid Office does not make any exceptions. • Any outlines set forth by FASFA, outlined online at http://fasfa.gov, infer that student registration schedules, and the required financial

aid paperwork, is submitted prior to the listed deadline. • When applying for FASFA, have the STLCC Federal School Code 002469 readily available. • Prior to registering for classes, determine your program of study, or major, as financial aid is only applied to classes that are within your declared major. • Login to Banner Self Service online at http://stlcc. edu/selfservice/ and select the aid year for which you are applying, and view and complete any further requirements.

For more information, contact Meramec’s Financial Aid office at 314-984-7650. THAT 70’S SECTION 11

Students with disAbilities

have Access at STLCC.

St. Louis Community College makes every reasonable effort to accommodate individuals with disabilities. If you have accommodation needs, please contact the Access office at the campus where you are registered. While accommodations may be requested at any time, some accommodations may require many weeks to arrange. Florissant Valley Access Office 3400 Pershall Road St. Louis, MO 63135-1499 E-mail: fvaccess@stlcc.edu Phone: 314-513-4551 Fax: 314-513-4876 Relay Missouri: 711

Forest Park Access Office

Meramec Access Office

5600 Oakland Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110-1393 E-mail: fpaccess@stlcc.edu Phone: 314-644-9039 Fax: 314-951-9439 Relay Missouri: 711

11333 Big Bend Road Kirkwood, MO 63122-5799 E-mail: mcaccess@stlcc.edu Phone: 314-984-7673 Fax: 314-984-7123 Relay Missouri: 711

Wildwood Student Enrollment and Disability Support Services 2645 Generations Drive Wildwood, MO 63040-1168 E-mail: wwaccess@stlcc.edu Phone: 636-422-2000 Fax: 636-422-2050 Relay Missouri: 711

St. Louis Community College expands minds and changes lives every day. We create accessible, dynamic learning environments focused on the needs of our diverse communities. Florissant Valley

Forest Park

Meramec

www.stlcc.edu

Wildwood

DISCOver Answers to Your Questions There is no such thing as a dumb question or answer REBECCA BIUNDO INDEPTH EDITOR

Q: Where are the bathrooms?

Sometimes, it is inconvenient to wander around school looking for the nearest restroom. Men’s restrooms are usually on the first floor and women’s are usually on the second.

Q: How do I meet friends?

Going to Meramec is a different experience than a traditional four year school. Many students come to school for class and leave for the day. However getting involved in one of Meramec’s many specialized clubs and organizations can help bring people with the same interests together.

Q: I lost my ID. What now?

Without a student ID, studying on campus can be a bit of a challenge. Before students can work in a lab or check out a library book, they will need to replace their ID. Visit Campus Life, located on the second floor of the Student Center, to receive a new one for a fee of $20.

Q: If I am late for a class, should I just skip it?

Ever heard the saying, “Better late than never?” Well it is a saying for a reason. Do not just assume you missed the bulk of a lecture because you are running behind. Take a deep breath and walk in. Everyone has those days.

Q: Why is Blackboard down?

Blackboard can be helpful for many classes, regular, hybrid and online. However, blackboard can stop working for unexplainable reasons. Do not panic. It will be up and running soon enough. And no, it does not mean you do not have to complete that assignment.

Q: What happens if I miss/ skip too many classes?

Whether it has been a family emergency or just a bad case of oversleeping, talk to the professor. Arrangements and exceptions can be made if there is an effort made to save a grade. Otherwise, withdraw before the deadline.

Meet the Academic Advisers

Meramec is home to 14 advisers to assist students with college plans Name: Julie Massey Years at STLCC: 9 Manager Name: Dana Austin-Cooper Years at STLCC: 15 Advising Specialties: Teaching, Communications, Addiction Studies Name: Mysha Clincy Years at STLCC: 11 Advising Specialties: Accounting, Math, Social Work, Human Services Name: Liz Higgins Years at STLCC: 6 Advising Specialties: Nursing, PTA, OTA, EMT, Music, Legal Studies, Communications Name: Christy Niles Years at STLCC: 1 Advising Specialties: Allied Health, Fine Arts

Name: Suzzie Huff Years at STLCC: 16 Advising Specialties: Allied Health, Fine Arts, Interior Design, Pre-Dentistry, Pre-Pharmacy Name: Sebrina Colvin Years at STLCC: 5 Advising Specialties: Allied Health, Financial Aid, Transfer Name: Lorri Milward Years at STLCC: 23 Advising Specialties: Nursing, OTA, PTA, Information Systems Name: Betty Jo Hogan Years at STLCC: 21 Advising Specialties: Business, Math, Music, Accounting, Early Care, Teaching, Nursing, OTA, PTA Name: Johna Grier Years at STLCC: 5 Advising Specialties: Fine Art, Communications, Teaching, Horticulture, Human Services, Music

Name: Lynne Ludens Years at STLCC: 20 Advising Specialties: Engineer, Computer Science, Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Interior Design Name: Tracy Lampkins Years at STLCC: 5 Advising Specialties: Accounting, Business, Early Care, Teaching, Nursing, OTA, PTA, Paramedic Name: Tracy Rankin Years at STLCC: 14.5 Advising Specialties: Communications, Pre-Veterinary, Accounting, Teaching, Early Care, Web Development Name: Jean Kennedy Years at STLCC: 11 Advising Specialties: Nursing, OTA, PTA, Teaching, Legal Studies, Pre-Law, Early Care, Communications THAT 70’S SECTION 13

High School Myths

FIve Myths your high school told you about college MYTH #1

MYTH #2

Busted. Universities are equally as interested in your GPA as they are in your ACT and/or SAT scores. In fact, most colleges offer financial aid based on your GPA. A higher GPA can result in more money awarded to a student. Therefore, hitting the books is just as important as cramming for standardized tests.

Plausible. It is definitely the case for some students that a degree can be earned in four-years. However, many factors can prevent this from happening. Perhaps a student decides to branch off in their education and change majors. Outside factors can also interrupt the flow of college. Unfortunately, some students get to a point at which they can no longer fund their education and must put their degree on hold.

Your standardized test scores will determine your acceptance into college.

MYTH #3

It is important to choose a college that has a prestigious program in your field. Busted. There are countless universities that offer a diverse selection of courses and degree programs. While a renowned university might look great on a resume, it may be the case that a student does not like the location of the school or it is simply out of their price range. In the end, a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to utilize the skills they acquire is far more important than the institution at which they were acquired.

College is a four-year period in which you work to earn a degree in a certain field of study.

MYTH #4

It is important to major in something practical. Busted. While the economy is not as flourishing as it has been in the past, the general decision to attend college is a risk in itself. Why should a student take a financial risk on something they are not passionate about? Where there is a will, there is away and even the most impractical majors can breed success with a little networking and hard work.

MYTH #5

College is the best time of your life. Confirmed. College is not only a time to prepare for a career. College also provides an opportunity for a person to learn independence and skills that will be helpful later in life. College is a time to grow in knowledge and in character. It is an opportunity to make lifelong friends, valuable mistakes and priceless memories.

14 THAT 70â&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SECTION

‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ Grab your axe and leather jacket because this section is about to rock your socks off. This radical section covers everything students need to know while settling in to college life at STLCCMeramec. It will guide you to everything you need to know on and around campus including bombdigity places to eat and

righteous resources around campus. This section not only gives students a chance to know the campus but to also learn about the surrounding Kirkwood area. Meramec offers a wide variety of plays, clubs, campus events and activities to participate in. This section aims to give students an idea of what the school has to offer in those areas.

‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ 15

Every Bite You Take

How to manage meals on a college student’s budget DALILA KAHVEDZIC ASST. ART & LIFE EDITOR Surviving college as a starving student can be a difficult task considering countless students are tight with their budget as is, with paying off tuition and buying overpriced books. Time and money are crucial to any busy college student, and eating in your car is given a whole new meaning once you start rushing to make it to your classes. Michelle Savage, a financial adviser, gave good tips on how to better spend money. Savage said that bringing lunch from home and using coupons could tremendously help a students’ budget. She also mentioned the envelope system. In the envelope system, the student would make a budget and put specific amounts of money into the envelope for categories like clothing, entertainment and dining out. When the envelope is empty, it is “lights out for that category,” Savage said. Many students have trouble with random and spontaneous spending on overpriced snacks that do not quite do the trick for their empty stomachs, so hopefully these few tips and prices can be of help.

8 Tips

ILLUSTRATION BY: MARISSA DIERCKS

for spending less on food 1. Buy only what you need. Learn to buy only what you are

5. Use coupons to save money, but only use them on

going to eat before it expires.

items you would have bought anyway.

2. Drink more water. It is cheaper than most other

6. Check “price per unit” as opposed to total price of the

beverages and healthier too.

foods you purchase to get the best deal.

3. Learn to plan your meals and stick to a shopping list, this

7. Make your own snacks; you can often save money by

will keep you from frivolous spending.

4. Compare prices at stores around town, and visit the

stores that have your items at the best prices.

16 ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’

making your own rather than buying it from the store.

8. Set a food budget and stick to it.

Price Comparison of Fast Food Choices ILLUSTRATION BY: MARISSA DIERCKS

Dunkin’ Donuts

1 donut

95¢

Starbucks

Iced Caramel Macchiato

$3.75

Five Guys

Cheeseburger: $6.79

Hamburger: $6.09

Chipotle

Chicken Burrito

$6.25

Burger King Whopper Meal

$6.09

Quik Trip 1 donut

89¢

Dunkin’ Donuts Iced Caramel Latte

$1.99

Steak & Shake

Double Steak burger with Cheese

$5.79

Qdoba

Queso Burrito (Grilled Chicken)

$6.09

Mcdonald’s Big Mac Meal

$5.69

‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ 17

Smoking In The Boys’ Room Will e-cigs be a one-hit wonder? JASON JAMISON SPORTS EDITOR As early as fall 2014 there could be an official policy that concerns electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) on campus. There is not currently an official policy on e-cigs at Meramec. Although Meramec is a smoke-free environment, there is not any policy in the student handbook regarding e-cigs on campus. Sophomore Kerra Ruder said that she was unaware that e-cigs could be used on campus. “I thought [e-cigs] were banned,” Ruder said. “I saw somebody using one in the cafeteria and a staff member went up to them and told them that they weren’t allowed to use it.” According to Vice President of Student Affairs Kim Fitzgerald, since there is no official ban on e-cigs or specific policy in the handbook telling students where they can or cannot use them on campus, what Ruder saw would fall under “staff tolerance.” In February 2014, Fitzgerald addressed the tolerance of e-cigs by saying their use falls under the same discretion as food and cellphone usage in class; it is up to the instructor. “The instructor determines the rules of the classroom. As with all devices, it is completely up to the instructor what is allowed in class,” Fitzgerald said in February. “There is a tobaccofree policy, not smoke-free.” Since February, Fitzgerald has provided more information on the use of e-cigs in regards to the authorities on campus, and 18 ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’

usage of them in the common areas. “Failure to comply with the directions of a college official [as listed] on page 164 of the student Fact Finder, there is a list of regulations and responsibilities,” Fitzgerald said. “A faculty member, cafeteria worker, custodian, the president — those are all college officials. In the classrooms it is up to the teacher’s discretion, but if we are talking about the common areas, it is determined upon the discretion of any faculty or staff.” According to Paula Savarino, the Chairwoman of the College Institutional Affairs Council (CIAC), the council has met to discuss the creation of a campuswide ban on e-cigs. “An agenda item comes from the campuses and then it goes to the local councils. At Meramec it would be [the] Meramec Institutional Affairs Council

(MIAC). Then it goes to the district council, which is CIAC,” Savarino said. “Then it is given to both councils and then to the board of trustees. Then, when the board of trustees has voted, it becomes a policy or a policy change.” Savarino said that the language discussed by the councils in order to create the ban was very specific. “We decided that it should be electronic smoking devices instead of electronic cigarettes. This was done in April and it passed,” Savarino said. “So now it goes to the board of trustees.” Savarino said that they are unsure what is actually in e-cig devices and that is the biggest factor contributing to the proposed ban. “It’s what you can put in there,” Savarino said. “What you can put in there is sometimes not what originally went in there.” Fitzgerald addressed the

issue of campus signs in the same manner, especially in the event that the ban does not pass. “I do think that because the whole issue of e-cigs has been gray, we can do a better job of making it known where it is or isn’t appropriate to use them,” Fitzgerald said. “Unless it says no e-cigs or absolutely no smoking, I think it’s more difficult to enforce something that’s not specific. To be fair I think it should be posted.” Savarino said she hopes the ban is in place by the fall 2014 semester. She thought that would be best for the students and the campus. “I would hope that the ban is in place by fall semester. I think the students here, who are amazing by the way, I think that they want this,” Savarino said. “With the college itself, I think we’re ahead of the curve and I think that’s good.”

Start out right @ your library  Get research help.  Find a book.  Study alone or with a group.  Check out a movie.  Use a computer. Questions? Stop in, call, email or text the Meramec Library https://www.stlcc.edu/libraries/ssl/ask.asp

Upgrade your research skills with a library credit course! LIB 101 - Introduction to Library and Online Research In this one-credit course, you’ll learn how to find, evaluate, and cite information from a variety of resources, including the Internet, online databases, and the library catalog.

Too Much Time On Your Hands? CORY MONTERO MANAGING EDITOR Each semester most students have a break from one class to the next. Sometimes the break is just long enough to cram in a little bit of homework. Other times students choose a longer break to make a smooth relaxing transition into their next class. For students who have had enough sitting around in the cafeteria for the day, check out the surrounding area of Kirkwood. From bar and grills to bicycle shops, there is plenty to eat and much to explore.

Great Harvest Bread Company 125 W. Argonne Dr.

Imo’ s Pizza 215 S. Kirkwood Rd.

Kaldi’ s Coffee House 120 S. Kirkwood Rd.

Chocolate-Chocolate-Chocolate 112 N. Kirkwood Rd.

Kirkwood Station Brewing Co.

105 E. Jefferson Ave.

PHOTOS BY: DARLA STORM

20 ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’

Spencer’s Grill 223 S. Kirkwood Rd.

Clay & Cotton of Kirkwood 159 W. Argonne Dr.

Bicycles of Kirkwood 207 N. Kirkwood Rd.

Fun in the Sun Sports & Leisure 121 N. Kirkwood Rd.

Blush Boutique 110 N. Clay Ave.

Pottery Hollow 116 N. Kirkwood Rd.

Books & Beyond 140 E. Jefferson Ave.

PHOTOS BY: DAVID KLOECKENER

Top Hat Tobacco 124 W. Jefferson Ave. ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ 21

Rock The Clubs DAVID KLOECKENER PHOTO EDITOR

Meramec is home to approximately 50 different clubs for students to participate in while on campus. The clubs range from the Fencing Club and the Legal Studies Club to the Music Club and the Photo club. Students have the ability to join clubs that cover a broad range of topics and interests, including: vocational, academic, community service, spiritual, recreational and social interests. Clubs provide students with opportunities to volunteer and network with others who have the same interests. Current students can also launch a new club by recruiting at least 15 students to participate and secure a staff or faculty adviser. For more information, contact the Campus Life Office at 314-984-7641 or browse the website at http://www.stlcc.edu/MC/Campus_Life.html.

A Club For Everyone ... And Anyone at Meramec Want to Get Your Hands Dirty?

Looking to Learn More?

• Art Club • Campus Garden Initiative • Chemistry Club • Clay Club • Geology Club • Horticulture Club • Mud Club •Outdoors Club

• Business Club • Engineering Club • Legal Studies Club • Meramec Architecture Society • Programming Club •Socratic Society • Student Math League •Student Nurses Association

Interested in Meeting Others? • Diversity Club •Focus on Ability • Global Justice Project • International Club • Muslim Student Association • Veterans Club

Want to Show Off Your Talents? • Computer Innovations Club •Fencing Club •Improv/Theatre Club • Music Club • Photo Club • Strategic Board Game Club

PHOTOS BY: CASSIE KIBENS CLUB RE-CAP: At left, club members admire items sold at the Earth Day Celebration. Center, a member of the Horticulture Club helps custoemrs during the club’s annual plant sale. At right, student club members sign a birthday card for the anniversary of the Brown Bag Cafe.

22 ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’

PHOTO BY: DAVID KLOECKENER (Left) Cindy Clausen helps Marissa Hawkins work on assignments for summer classes. (Right) Cathy Daugherty helps Jamaal Taylor look up information for next semester. The Meramec Academic Center (MAC) has summer hours to help students with assignments and go over time management for the upcoming semester.

Time After Time

Managing time while balancing school, work and social schedules DAVID KLOECKENER PHOTO EDITOR Having time to make to fit in school, work and social life is hard while in college. There are various places that have the ability to help students manage their time while attending classes. Places such as the library, writing center, computer labs and advising are able to help students. These would help students manage times or places for studying, writing papers and other ways to manage time while going to school andor work. The Meramec Academic Center (MAC) is geared for helping students come up with plans to succeed while starting off in college life. Sandy Snodgrass from the MAC pointed out how the first thing they should do when coming to college for the first time should come in to make a plan for managing time while working, going to school and socializing. Students who have been in college for awhile can also come to make a plan as well to be successful in the semester. “The first thing they should do is come into our center the MAC because we usually sit down with students for 20-30 minutes

and discuss the issue of time management,” Snodgrass said. “If they cannot come in, I recommend they figure out how many hours in the day they are occupied with work, hours in class, hours socializing or what not.” According to University of Wisconsin Green Bay, when looking at classes, things to look at are when classes meet, will it conflict with work, or class sizes. When looking at the semester, set aside times during the week and make a study plan. You should study for a set time then take a break so overdoing it out of the question. If work conflicts with study times, set a couple minutes before or after work to study or look over material for classes. When starting to study, the mind is more alert and fresh. This makes studying harder subjects or material better. Snodgrass also talked about the advantage of having a planner and writing everything such as tests, assignments and important dates down in the planner. Most students are not use to writing in planners, but writing all dates in a planner would benefit students and help them with what goes on and when.

“We recommend that students take a planner to write the assignments that are due and tests that are coming up. A lot of the students are just coming out of high school where teachers are telling them constantly about tests on a specific date,” Snodgrass said. “In college you’d get a syllabus and the instructor would not even mention that there is a test.” Snodgrass mentions how students who come in to the MAC are given a chart to go over what they have going on in classes and work and put it into certain dates/times, what times they work and what times they would go socialize. Snodgrass pointed out how students have everything written down in a planner, it makes it easier during the semester. “We will give them a chart and they can fill it in to see when they have a couple hours to spare. A lot of times we say ‘there is just not enough hours,’ but actually there probably are,” Snodgrass said. “Once students know when, where and how much time they have, it makes it a little bit easier to plan.”

‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ 23

WISCONSIN

IOWA

Chicago

ILLINOIS

INDIANA

St. Louis

MISSOURI KENTUCKY

TENNESSEE ARKANSAS

Time To Get Resourceful

Places for student to find answers to make college easier DENNIS W. PARKS STAFF WRITER All through college, there will be questions. Knowing how and where to find the appropriate answers will undoubtedly make the college experience easier. One of the first places to look for answers is the college’s website, http://stlcc.edu. Most likely, current students have already seen this website at some point, but have probably not realized its full potential. From the website’s home page, there are several tabs to choose from; including Enroll Now, “Programs” and “Student Resources.” There are other tabs as well, but these three will apply to most all students. From the “Enroll Now” tab, information and additional hyperlinks provide answers to questions concerning admissions, class schedules, course catalogs, registration, advising, financial aid and other frequently asked questions. The “Programs” tab provides specific information regarding the various degrees and certifications available at STLCC. From the “Student Resources” tab, campusspecific information is prevalent, ranging from academic resources, counseling, campus services, policies and procedures, bookstore, transcripts, disabilities and graduation. Resources listed on the Student Resources tab are perhaps those most conducive to success. Staffed by educational specialists, tutoring is offered through the Meramec Academic Center (MAC) and is located in Communications North, room 124. “We try to help students read and understand their college textbooks and prepare for finals,” Educational Specialist Cathy Dougherty said.

Located next door in Communications North room 122 is the writing center. This is where a group of professional writers and teachers are available to help all students with their communications or English classes. According to writing specialist/tutor Harriet Clark, “students should bring in their assignment sheets so that the staff can clearly understand the assignment to provide the correct assistance. Students can come in for assistance at any point during the writing process, whether it is to brainstorm, draft or final edit, but not to proofread students’ work.”

“

We’ll help you learn how to fix your errors. We want to create better writers, not just better papers.” —Harriet Clark

For specialized tutoring, such as biology or sociology, tutoring help can be arranged through the Supplemental Instruction/Peer Tutoring, found in Communications North room 222. This group of student workers provides supplemental instruction to other students in a group study format, and is headed up by Cindy Clausen, academic support coordinator. The program also provides a work opportunity for students that

are exceptional in their area of study. “We help students learn executive functions, such as managing their time and taking notes,” Clausen said.“We initiate group study to help the student stay in class and be successful.” Clausen said that studies have been done about students studying in groups and the results are positive. “Those who study in groups typically earn a half point to a full grade point better than those who don’t,” Clausen said. To meet research needs, there is always the library. According to Instructional Resources Manager, Patrick Mallory, “we have more than 60 personal computers that can be used in the library. There are also 20 laptops and a few iPads that can be checked out and used in the library building. There are also four full-time, fully professional librarians that are available to help gather research material. The STLCC-Meramec library also has 10 study rooms that can be used for group study projects, as well as a robust book inventory.” “We are here to help our students,” Mallory said. For answers to not so formal questions about college, multiple bulletin boards in the student center offer information. Calendars of events, movie nights, club news and classified ads keep students and staff in the know. From art shows, casting calls, baseball tryouts to carpool info and roommate wanted ads, it is there. College students field a lot of questions. Not knowing the answer is understandable, but knowing where to find it is key.

PHOTO BY: DAVID KLOECKENER

‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ 25

Let’s Get Physical Free For All Students

RYAN OBRADOVIC OPINIONS EDITOR In this day and age, Taco Bell and McDonald’s are often preferred to a healthy homecooked meal. At the same time, video games and Netflix are more appealing than working out. Whether it is because people do not want to pay for a gym membership or are just a little lazy, the weight room at STLCC-Meramec can help shed the extra calories gained from those late night Taco Bell runs - all people need is a little ambition. And best of all it is free. The weight room at Meramec, located in the physical education building by the gym, is available to all students. An initial orientation is required and students have to be 17 or older to work out alone, otherwise a parent/guardian would need to be present. Administration asks that there be no food or drink, that proper gym clothes are worn and that music is kept at a reasonable level. Since the weight room is free to use for students, it really helps those people who want to stay fit but do not want to pay to use a local gym. “It’s really convenient for me to go work out at school because it’s close to my house and I don’t have to pay ridiculous gym membership fees,” student Lars Anderson said. To use these facilities, Meramec students must have a current school ID, and are allowed one guest. The weight room hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and then 5-7 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday hours are 7-9 a.m. and from 5-8 p.m., Saturday it is open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Meramec also has a Fitness Center located in the P.E. building, where there are mainly machines and cardio equipment. The Fitness Center is only available to students who are enrolled in Fitness Center I, Fitness II or Total Fitness classes, said Kim McCall, assistant physical education department chair.

Open pool hours Monday-Thursday 8-9 am & 11 am-1 pm Friday 11 am-1 pm 26 ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’

PHOTOS BY: DARLA STORM

BYE BYE BYE ‘

Ditch the big hair and leather jacket and join the denim and grunge club. We outta here. As you move from Meramec to your next destination consider this section as your yellow taxi to Bel-Air. No matter if you were a freak, geek or the fresh prince of Meramec, this section will be all that. Get the 411 on how to transfer to the next school, power your way through profiles about students moving

’

on to four-year schools, do not be clueless about Missouri four-year schools, we got you covered. Get on the bus for info about how to keep your social media fresh and make your resume out of this world. Do not be a pesky kid, read the section with a bottle of orange soda and slay the next chapter of your life.

‘Bye Bye Bye’ 27

Heading into a whole new world Tips, tricks and suggestions for transferring from STLCC to your next college or university BILLY GARDNER STAFF WRITER

1. Meet With an Adviser When first stepping foot on Meramec’s campus, college can seem a bit overwhelming. Students are often confused about what classes to take. Advisers are on campus at Clark Hall. They are here to help. Whether

a student knows his or her intended major or just wants to get general education requirements out of the way, meeting with an adviser can point that individual in the right direction.

3. Contact Admissions Admissions officers from a student’s target schools will be more than happy to help that person along his or her

journey. They will be able to get prospective students important information on what courses they will accept.

4. Plan Visits to Prospective Schools Prior to applying to his or her school of choice, a student should attempt to schedule a visit. He or she can do so on the school’s website. Visiting a school allows the student to get acclimated to 28 ‘Bye Bye Bye’

the campus and surrounding area. Often times, campus visits have a substantial impact on students’ decisions regarding where they would like to attend.

2. Identify and Research Target Schools Everyone is different. Some people want to stay close to home. Others want to move as far away as possible and start fresh. No matter where a student wants to go, he or she should be sure to identify these schools early. Different schools require different coursework. By getting an early start, a student can be sure to complete the correct course work that the target schools desire. Scoping out the school’s website can be a great way to find important information. Students can find data that profiles past classes, giving average GPA and standardized test scores. Students should keep in mind that people from STLCC get accepted into schools all over the country. The only way someone can ensure he or she won’t get into a school is by not applying.

WAIT

There are transfer guides for some schools in the area available on the STLCC website. To find these, students should go to http//stlcc.edu and click on the “enroll now” tab. From there, he or she should go to “transfer information.” On the left, students can find transfer guides. These guides have information that details exactly what to take for certain programs and what will transfer. Academic Advisor, Michelle Savage, says that once a student identifies his or her target school, he or she should “Make an appointment with an advisor to complete an academic plan based off of the transfer guides.” Savage added, “If there isn’t a transfer guide, contact the school and ask what you should be taking.”

there is more

5. Apply to Schools When applying to schools, students should set aside adequate time to fill out the application. The application is all that the admissions officers have to go off of when determining if a student will be admitted. Taking time and

care during the application process can be the difference between acceptance and rejection. Students should follow all directions carefully and proofread the entire application prior to submission.

6. Keep Up the Hard Work The final semester at STLCC matters. Many universities give conditional acceptance to applicants with the understanding that a certain academic standard will

Hall

Dates

Go to “enroll now”

Select “transfer information”

is located on the east side of campus to the west of the Physical Education building. houses the academic advisers, financial aid and cashier office. As well as the place to visit to send a transcript to another school.

Key

Go to stlcc.edu

be maintained. If a student is admitted in March, they should not take April and May off. His or her acceptance can be rescinded.

F A S T // F A C T S Clark

How to find STLCC transfer guides

Select “transfer guides”

to apply for graduation: Summer- June 20 Fall- October 1 Spring- March 1 ‘Bye Bye Bye’ 29

Lindenwood University Day • Evening • Online

Lindenwood University Offers • Affordable tuition with available grants, scholarships, and financial aid • Outstanding faculty, committed to your success • More than 120 degree programs to meet your goals • Beautiful residential campuses in St. Charles, Mo., and Belleville, Ill. • 10 regional centers near home and work • NCAA athletics • Small class sizes and formats that work with your schedule • Your degree is closer than you think

Call 636-949-4949 or visit www.lindenwood.edu

10 We Love Things

Have you ever been on the Meramec campus past 9 p.m.? We have. Nothing special. Just bragging.

about

There is a bathroom right next to the office. You never have to leave an about 40 square-foot area.

Working for The Montage looks great on a college application or resume.

Our printer is sensitive but if you give him a little love, he might print before you graduate.

Pepperoni, bacon and cheese have all made appearances at our production nights. Like pizza? We do.

Our advisor is also a teacher and mother. I warned you. JK, love ya Shan Shan.

Just go ahead and mark Tuesdays as â&#x20AC;&#x153;busyâ&#x20AC;? for the next year or longer. Tuesdays. 5 p.m. SC220A. This fall.

Looking to take a trip soon? You could be on your way to a journalism convention to learn so many things from many different people. Yeah, you would look good in a lanyard.

10)

The Montage

Did we mention pizza?

Make the weirdest bunch of friends possible. Then actually stay in contact with them because they are now like family.

We accept applications year round. Apply at www.meramecmontage.com/jobs

Girl Meets Wash U

Rachel Zink awarded scholarship to study psychology and pre-law CASSIE KIBENS PRODUCTION MANAGER She applied to 11 different schools around the country, but her No. 1 choice was right here in Missouri, St. Louis in fact. Rachel Zink, Meramec student, will head to Washington University to study psychology

Transfer

Transcript

Number of schools Zink applied to

Number of years spent at Meramec

Number of clubs Zink was part of

While at Wash U

psychology >> Studying and pre-law for the >> Excited international student population

FUTURE PLANS a non-profit >> Open human trafficking clinic in St. Louis

>> Go to law school 32 ‘Bye Bye Bye’

and pre-law fall 2014. “I just really believe that the community at Wash U is going to prepare me the best for law school and offer me a really dynamic environment,” Zink said. “There’s also a really large international student population, which is really attractive to me.” Zink received the Elizabeth Grey Danforth Scholarship, which goes to a student attending a STLCC school that has been admitted and plans to go to Washington University. Zink was not at home when her scholarship came in the mail, but her parents called her right away to see if she wanted to know the news right then and there. She did. “Then there was this super long pause on the phone and I thought I didn’t get it because I thought they didn’t know how to tell me,” Zink said. “But they were actually crying and they were weeping tears of joy because they were just so proud and so happy for me because I’ve worked so hard.” Zink has been studying at Meramec for two years and graduated spring 2014 with her general transfer degree. While at Meramec she was part of Student Governance Council, Phi Theta Kappa Honor society, Chemistry club, English conversation partner program and Global Justice club. “I’m really excited to get involved with [Wash U’s] clubs because I’m really active on this campus,” Zink said. “It’s going to be a big transition from

Meramec to Wash U but I really believe that Meramec has given me the fundamentals I need to transfer.” Zink became interested in becoming a lawyer because she wants to work with human trafficking victims and eventually open a clinic in St. Louis, which would be the first. Her trip to Africa confirmed her want to study human trafficking when she met a little girl who had been sexually abused. “I’ve always had an interest in human rights especially for sexual exploitation but then when I went to Africa it was so evident to me that I wanted to study human rights and to work for the justice of the oppressed,” Zink said. Zink wants to work with non-profit companies and has been interested in advocacy since attending Meramec. Zink said she has been advocating in different clubs for various purposes and believes her fundamentals of advocating started at Meramec. “Working in a human trafficking clinic and possible work for the state department,” Zink said about what she wants to do one day. “I just plan to work with non-profit organizations and work with human rights violations, and making sure victims of sexual exploitation get the resources that they need to

“

I just really believe that the community at Wash U is going to prepare me the best for law school and offer me a really dynamic environment.” —Rachel Zink

alleviate the suffering and that their dignity can be restored.” Zink does not know where she wants to go for law school eventually, but is excited to get into what she is really passionate about. She plans to study Psychology with an International Human Rights emphasis. “I just enjoy school so much,” Zink said. “I’m really enthusiastic about learning and I think I’m going to love it there, I really do.”

Meramec:

Students of the 21st Century CASSIE KIBENS PRODUCTION MANAGER

LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Vine and Snapchat are just a few of the social media outlets students use today. There are benefits to using the sites and applications, but there are also fall backs.

Tips to using social media:

Photos

Students should try and avoid posting pictures putting themselves in incriminating situations. This includes but is not limited to; drinking, drugs and illegal activities.

Content

To create a positive online image of yourself, usnews.com advises people to create positive content. From posting links that relate to your prospective field of interest to engaging in appropriate online debates.

Google

Huffington post advises people to Google themselves to find the “bad” things about his/ herself on the Internet. This helps the person find what they need to take down.

Trash

The online world has a reach, and your current boss or future one might be able to see the negative and positive things you post about them. Huffingtonpost. com advises people to be careful when posting about the office.

Metro Power Yoga Our mission is to give you the tools to take charge of your life. Our hot power yoga is based in Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga, a flowing sequence of poses building strength flexibility and balance, on and off your mat. Each class is lively and unique, designed to fit every body; no matter shape, flexibility nor age. Metro Power Yoga is the only hot yoga studio in the area dedicated to teaching in the Baptiste Power Vinyasa tradition. We are excited to be located in Kirkwood and invite you to help us build a vibrant healthy community.

NOW OPEN in Kirkwood Special rates for students/educators 935 South Kirkwood, 63122 www.metropoweryoga.com facebook.com/metropoweryoga 314-805-0908 (across from Doc’s Harley-Davidson)

Information from www.usnews.com and www.huffingtonpost.com ‘Bye Bye Bye’ 33

There’s Something About Missouri Keepin’ it local- A selection of Missouri universities for prospective transfer students including information about tuition and other aspects JUSTIN VILLMER SENIOR COPY EDITOR

>> Lindenwood University Founded – 1827 student to faculty ratio 17:1 Basic undergraduate tuition – 15,230 Female student ratio –46%/Male student ratio –54% Acceptance Rate – 66% Total Undergraduate Students – 7,399 Total enrollment – 9,000

Truman State University Founded – 1867 student to faculty ratio – 16:1 Basic undergraduate tuition – In-state – 7,096 Out-of-state – 13,160 Female student ratio –59%/Male student ratio –41% Acceptance Rate – 72% Total Undergraduate Students – 5,700 Total enrollment – 6,340

>> University of Missouri – St. Louis

Founded – 1963 student to faculty ratio – 16:1 Basic undergraduate tuition – In-state – 9,474 Out-of-state – 24,429 Female student ratio –56%/Male student ratio –44% Acceptance Rate – 74% Total Undergraduate Students – 8,872 Total enrollment – 11,724 34 ‘Bye Bye Bye’

of Missouri – >> University Columbia

Webster University

(stats based on 2013-14) Founded – 1839 20:1 student to faculty ratio In-State Tuition total – $22,943 Out of state Tuition total – $37,292 Female student ratio –52%/Male student ratio –48% Acceptance Rate – 78% Total Undergraduate Students – 26,965 Total enrollment – 34,658

Founded – 1915 student to faculty ratio – 9:1 Basic undergraduate tuition – 24,500 (other tuition for conservatory) Female student ratio –54%/Male student ratio–46% Acceptance Rate – 57% Total Undergraduate Students – 5,010 Total enrollment – 22,000

Saint Louis University Founded – 1818 student to faculty ratio – 12:1 Basic undergraduate tuition – 37,350 Female student ratio –57%/Male student ratio –43% Acceptance Rate – 63% Total Undergraduate Students – 8,687 Total enrollment – 13,505 *Information provided by www.Petersons.com and/or the Universities’ website.

Missouri University of Science and Technology Founded – 1870 student to faculty ratio – 14:1 Basic undergraduate tuition – In-state – 7,400 Out-of-state – 21,680 Female student ratio –23%/Male student ratio –77% Acceptance Rate – 82% Total Undergraduate Students – 5,978 Total enrollment – 7,143 ‘Bye Bye Bye’ 35

The City of Kirkwood Welcomes You! Art at the Station!

-Local artists’ work on display at the Kirkwood Train Station Year ‘Round FREE! -Art can be viewed when the station is open for passengers

Kirkwood Farmers’ Market -Located in historic downtown Kirkwood at the corner of Argonne and Taylor -Open April through October PLUS the Christmas Tree Lot in December -Locally grown produce, fresh baked goods, and live music on Saturdays!

Kirkwood Park: -Located a few blocks from downtown Kirkwood at the corner of Geyer and Adams -Swimming Pool, Tennis Courts, Handball/Racquetball Courts, Playgrounds, Walking/ Running Path, Fitness Trail, Picnic Sites, Pavilions, Softball Fields, and Fishing at Walker Lake! -Ice Rink is Open Year ‘Round -The Pool is Now Open to NonResidents

Get Connected!

Website, E-News, City Blog, Twitter and Facebook! Visit us at www.kirkwoodmo.org -Sign up for the Weekly Happenings E-Newsletter (Email us: Info@kirkwoodmo.org) -Read the City Blog All Aboard and sign up to receive updates: www.allaboard.kirkwoodmo.org -Follow us on Twitter for road closings and other updates - @kirkwoodcity -”Like” us on Facebook: City of Kirkwood, MO (Government)

If you believe in work after college While there is no such thing as a “perfect” resume; here are some steps to write an effective resume JUSTIN VILLMER COPY EDITOR There are many formats that can be used when writing and laying out a resume; each format with its strengths and weaknesses. The best approach is to write a resume that is tailored for the position. Do not use a resume template; employers can spot generic resumes created from templates. The first thing on a resume should be your name. It should be larger than other text and could be in bold to stand out more. Along with the name should be a current address, phone number and an email address. The objective/summary can be added after the header. The objective is optional and should only be included if it is clear and focused. This statement is used to clarify the position you are applying for within the company.

Education The education section should include the institution graduated from, degrees and dates. The date should be graduation month followed by the year of completion or estimated date of completion. Education will be before the Experience section for recent graduates and after for individuals that have already begun their career.

St. Louis Community College Kirkwood, MO Associate in Fine Arts Degree in Photography, May 2014 Experience Experience should be in Reverse Chronological format. This section can include previous jobs or unpaid work, such as internships. The descriptions should start with action verbs, should not be a complete sentence and be bulleted. When writing the descriptions check the job listing and pull action verbs from the listing, many companies use a program to scan resumes for key words and toss any that do not contain any of these words. Each experience should include, the employer name, your title or role, location of the business and the dates affiliated. Also provide concise explanations of the activities you preformed while in that position.

Webster Kirkwood Times Photographer, May 2014-present

Webster Groves, MO

City of Kirkwood: Parks and Recreation Lifeguard, May 2011-August 2013

Kirkwood, MO

Following the Experience section will be a skills and certifications section. Any licenses or certifications should be listed in this section. This is where the applicant will list additional skills, such as foreign language abilities, computer skills or public speaking skills. Also any prestigious awards that are relevant to the position are placed here. Additional Tips: -Do not use pronouns, such as I, me, my, we, etc. -Proofread several times -Be consistent: if you spell something out in one section do not abbreviate the same word in another section -Do not include “References Available Upon Request” this is understood -Keep your resume on one page, the exception for this is professionals with advanced degrees and/or a great deal of experience -Font size should be between 10-12 points and use an easy to read font, such as Times New Roman -When sending an electronic copy of the resume, send as a PDF or Word Document Information obtained from: http://ucs.yalecollege.yale.edu and http://careerservices.princeton.edu ‘Bye Bye Bye’ 37

To Florida and Beyond Meramec student Kalah Martin receives scholarship to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University to study drones CASSIE KIBENS PRODUCTION MANAGER Kalah Martin, in theory, could be in two places at once. She packed her bags and headed south to study unmanned aircraft systems, or more commonly known as, drones. “I could be here, but flying an automated small aircraft somewhere in Japan or Iraq,” Martin said. “My life wouldn’t be in danger because I’ll be in a different location.” Martin left for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Florida just before finals week 2014 started in the spring. Martin, past point-shooting guard for STLCC’s women’s basketball team, received a full two-year basketball scholarship at the Daytona Beach school. “I’m really excited for the education opportunity,” Martin said. “It’s an honor for someone else to pay for your education completely. Just to get an

“

It’s an honor for someone else to pay for your education completely. Just to get an education in a field that is going to take off in the next few years is really exciting.” — Kalah Martin

38 “Bye Bye Bye”

education in a field that is going to take off in the next few years is really exciting.” Martin is one of at least 10 girls who will be part of the first women’s basketball program at ERAU. During her visit to the school in January she met two other team members and the coach and will meet the others summer 2014 while training. “I think it’s a unique experience because how many people can say ‘I was a pioneer for this team’?” Martin said. “You can start off setting the records. The whole school is going to be behind you because you are a new sport.” Martin said her mother was sad as the departure date for Martin came closer, but that the family will go to Florida to see her first game. Martin said she was nervous about the whole experience, but excited as well. “Just not like having my mom to save the day,” Martin said about being on her own while at school. “Relying on myself more instead of always having my mom, knowing she can help me right away.” The “Harvard of the skies” school, as an article from “Time Magazine” calls ERAU. The only fully accredited aviationoriented university in the world, according to the school’s website. Martin knows she does not want to work on the Military-side of things, but rather work her way up the drone ladder. “I want to start off working

for a company of like just doing the job of a drone,” Martin said. “I know there was some talk of Amazon having drones deliver packages. I wouldn’t mind doing that. Eventually I want to become entrepreneur and maybe start a business with drones and like have drones deliver food to people in a busy city at like work.”

Transfer

Transcript

School of Choice: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Daytona Beach campus)

Studying: Unmanned aircraft systems (drones)

Sport: Martin will be joining the women’s basketball team, the first at Embry-Riddle

FAST //FACTS

>> Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is referred to as “Harvard of the skies” wants to start out >> Martin working with drones in general then begin her own business with them. Number of years Martin’s scholarship is for

$42,294

Estimated Costs Undergraduate Students

per academic year. (numbers from 2013-14; includes room and board and books)

What did you miss out on during the 2013-14 school year?

That 70’s Section Should I stay... “Bye, bye, bye” Since U Been Gone 75%

Wassup! This past school year at Meramec has been filled with all kinds of events ranging from rad to bogus. A lot of beef went down which made 2013-14 academic year a pretty gnarly one. Out with the old and in with the new seemed to be a common theme for the past two semesters. STLCC said, “peace out” to three important administration members, plus STLCC Chancellor Myrtle Dorsey got the ax. Not long after, Meramec gave a warm, “Yo, what’s up?”

to Interim STLCC Chancellor Dennis Michaelis. STLCC saw several awesome seasons for its sports teams. The men’s basketball players were no shoobies when they shredded their way to eighth place in the country. And the women’s soccer players just kicked it to nationals. So as a deuces is thrown to the 2013-14 school year and a fistbump is given to 2014-15, remember to keep your head up. Fo’ shizzle my fizzle. Because a lot has happened “Since u been gone.” For realsies.

‘SINCE U BEEN GONE’ 39

Meramec’s Administrative Musical Chairs Find out which Meramec administrators didn’t make the cut for 2014-2015

2013

August 15

September 26

September 30

July 27

STLCC Board of Trustees vote in a closed executive session not to extend Chancellor Myrtle Dorsey’s contract, which runs through June 2014. The motion would have extended Dorsey’s contract to 2015.

40 ‘SINCE U BEEN GONE’

Police Chief Paul Banta, Vice President of Student Affairs Linden Crawford and District Police Chief Robert Stewart were removed from their positions following the release of an investigation of the incident by the local law firm Armstrong Teasdale. As part of the removal, Meramec will announce that Lt. John Swerb will be Meramec interim police chief and Kim Fitzgerald as interim vice president of student affairs.

STLCC Board of Trustees grant Chancellor Myrtle Dorsey’s request for personal leave through June 30, 2014, at the Board of Trustees meeting. Dr. Donna Dare, vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, agrees to serve as acting chancellor until an interim is named. Meramec Interim President Pam McIntyre appoints Tony Russo as the interim police chief at Meramec.

Tony Russo begins his time as the interim police chief at Meramec.

October 9 Three candidates for interim chancellor visit Meramec, STLCC-Forest Park and STLCCFlorissant Valley

2014

October 17

October 28

December 5 April 30

STLCC Board of Trustees announce Dennis F. Michaelis, Ph. D., as the new interim chancellor for STLCC. His term will begin on Monday, Oct. 28, 2013. Michaelis agrees to serve as interim chancellor through June 2015.

Dennis F. Michaelis, Ph. D., begins his term as STLCC interim chancellor.

STLCC Board of Trustees approv the appointment of Pam McIntyre as the Meramec president. McIntyre had served as interim president since April 2013, following the resignation of President George Wasson.

After serving as interim vice president of student affairs at Meramec since August 2013, Kim Fitzgerald moves into the position permanently.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY: CORY MONTERO GRAPHIC BY: JAKE HUNN

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;SINCE U BEEN GONEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 41

cademi Learning through c AService c m

M.A.C.

nte Ce r

Me ra

makes a difference in your own life while helping others. Gain real world experience in a class service learning project or through one of our many community engagement projects. Ask about the Semester of Service Program!

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Flippin’ Sweet News Briefs RYAN OBRADOVIC OPINIONS EDITOR

The 2013-14 school year was one of many changes and realizations at the STLCC-Meramec campus. A new attendance tracker was activated and students learned that their valuables are not always safe, when left out in the open. Also, once the “send” button is clicked, there is no taking it back. Tweets and Facebook posts are monitored for key words. Banner XE STLCC activated a new attendance tracker the fall semester of 2013 called Banner XE because of many instances where students decide to skip class too often. Failure to attend 14 consecutive days could lead to loss of financial aid for that class. The financial aid office uses the module to assess when and how to distribute federal money. As for online classes, just logging on will not count as attending. Students have to have active interaction with fellow students and teachers, such as participating in discussion boards. Threatening Tweet An STLCC-Meramec student turned herself in at the Kirkwood Police Department on Aug. 28, 2013 because of a threatening tweet that was directed at the Financial Aid office. The student has since been removed from all STLCC campuses. The student was angry at the Financial Aid Department tweeting, “If this Financial Aid doesn’t figure it out soon, I’m going to kill somebody.” In a press release to students, faculty and staff,

Meramec officials described the tweet as “threatening.” STLCC district personnel sift through student tweets that are at the district level and campus level, according to President Pam McIntyre. “The college monitors tweets for certain words that come in. It does it in terms of a realization of what people are saying about the college and what type of information is out there,” McIntyre said. Dattoli Resigns STLCC-Meramec Archer’s baseball head coach, Tony Dattoli, resigned from his position on Nov. 11, 2013, after spending 11 seasons with the ball club. He will keep his position as a Physical Education teacher. “At some point, things happen. You make decisions,” Dattoli said. “I’ve got to put myself on a line where I can develop my career as a teacher. At the end of the day I was fortunate to do what I loved,” Dattoli said. With the loss of Dattoli, Scott Goodrich took the head coaching position and Zach Graefser continued his duties as the assistant coach. In 2003 Dattoli became the fourth head coach in Meramec baseball history and was 278-231-2 with the

Meramec Magic and 60-56 in his two seasons with the Archers. In his first season the Magic finished second in the Regions XVI Tournament and the next year Dattoli had his first All-American with David Freese, former St. Louis Cardinal third baseman. League of Innovations STLCC-Meramec President Pam McIntyre hosted an open forum on Nov. 20, 2013, where she answered questions that dealt with the STLCC’s removal of the League of Innovations and student tracking attendance issues. The League of Innovation is an organization that increases the community college movement, and creates more positive differences for students and communities. “The college has been reaffirmed in the League of Innovation two different times now because every time a chancellor leaves, the school goes through a review as to whether or not they remain in the league as a board member,” McIntyre said. Window Shopping During the second week of classes during the Fall 2013 semester, Michael Hepner,

professor for a Criminal Justice class, decided to have his students go on a shopping trip around the campus’s parking lot. “I jokingly called it shopping, when I said it. ‘Let’s go out to the parking lot and look around and go shopping.’ That’s what a lot of thieves will do. They’ll go shopping,” Hepner said. “Especially on a college campus because they know that this is a place that a lot of people think of as a safe zone. Unfortunately, like anywhere else, it is not.” Students realized how many things were left unattended in the cafeteria and in the parking lot. “Even having an expired credit card [laid out in the open] is enough to tempt a thief to break your window,” Hepner said. “There’s a lot of people out there who are desperate for quick money and quick cash. A lot of people will break a window just for that.” Students realized how vulnerable their belongings were, according to Ado Sadikovic, a student in Hepner’s class. “It makes you more aware not to leave anything in your car,” Sadikovic said. “This was one of those assignments that was fun and educating at the same time.” ‘SINCE U BEEN GONE’ 43

Remember the

Archers

A look back on the 2013-14 season

ARCHIVED PHOTOS

SPENCER GLEASON EDITOR IN CHIEF Volleyball The STLCC women’s volleyball team made history this past season, but it was not necessarily in their favor. Finishing the year with a record of 0-30, the 2013-14 squad marked the first time in STLCC Archer history a team went winless. Head Coach Johnna Kinney called the shots, but the Lady Archers were shutout 26 times. Kinney coached the STLCC-Florissant Valley Fury from 2000-2010 and began coaching the STLCC Archers following the consolidation of district-wide athletics in July 2011. Kinney’s volleyball team last won a Region XVI Championship in 2001. The 2014-15 women’s 44 ‘SINCE U BEEN GONE’

volleyball team will dig into their 2014-15 season this fall, with home matches played at STLCC-Florissant Valley. Baseball Following the announcement of Head Coach Tony Dattoli’s resignation on Nov. 11, 2013, Assistant Coach Scott Goodrich slid into the head coach’s role. Goodrich and Assistant Coach Zach Graefser led the STLCC Archers to a 30-20 season. The record gave the Archers a winning percentage above the .500 mark for the second consecutive season. Collectively, the Archers had a batting average of .302 and slammed 27 homers. The 27 homeruns gave STLCC a

Top-50 spot in the country for NJCAA Division I baseball programs, in the category, ranking them 48th. On the pitching rubber, the Archers received wins from 11 different pitchers. Their walkto-strikeout ratio was 171-to341, respectively. Of the 12 pitchers on staff, not one had less than 10 strikeouts, with six having more than 30. Softball STLCC piled up the wins heading into the Regions XVI Tournament, winning eight of their last 10 games, including a four-game winning streak to finish the regular season, but were unable to keep the streak alive. After winning their first

game, 6-3, against Mineral Area College, the Lady Archers fell to East Central College, 6-1, and again to Mineral Area College, 7-4, in the double elimination tournament. STLCC finished the 2014 campaign with an overall record of 17-24-1. The 2013-14 season was the first season under Head Coach Sharon Marquardt. It was the Lady Archers’ third coach in as many seasons. Men’s Basketball The 2013-14 season saw a new face calling the shots for the STLCC Archers. Head Coach Randy Reed, in his first season at the helm of STLCC men’s basketball, continued what former coach and Hall

of Famer Randy Albrecht had done for 28 consecutive seasons — win. Finishing the season with a record of 22-12, the Archers never had a winning streak of more than four games, but they only loss back-to-back games once. The result was a Regions XVI Championship and NJCAA eighth place finish. It was the first NJCAA Top-Ten Title for the STLCC Archers men’s basketball program since the districtwide consolidation of athletics in July 2011. Women’s Basketball The 2013-14 Lady Archers just missed their third straight trip to the NJCAA Tournament. After defeating Cottey College, 82-47, in the regional semi-final matchup, the Lady Archers fell to the Lady Pirates from North Central Missouri College,

77-64, in the Regions XVI Championship game. Winning nine of their first 11 games before Winter Break, with a seven-game winning streak right in the middle, STLCC went 7-5 in their final 12 games, heading into the Regions XVI Tournament, following the new year. The Lady Archers went 17-8 overall, averaging 63.4 points per game and 39.2 rebounds per game. Men’s Soccer The Archers’ season came to an end with a 4-0 loss to Metropolitan Community College-Maple Woods in the opening round of the Region XVI Tournament. It was their 10th time being shutout all season. STLCC finished with a record of 2-16-1. The 2013-14 season was the second season for Head Coach Dan O’Keefe. In two

years at the helm of STLCC men’s soccer, O’Keefe has composited a record of 7-283. Following the 2013-14 season, STLCC announced that Tim Mosby would take over as head coach. Mosby was an all-American for STLCC-Florissant Valley in 2000-01. Mosby will be the Archers’ third coach in four years. Women’s Soccer After starting the season with a 1-1 tie against Eastern Florida State College, followed by two losses, the Lady Archers turned the page, winning 15 of the next 19 games. Their wins came in bunches, with a six-game winning streak, a five-game winning streak and a fourgame winning streak. The result was another NJCAA Tournament appearance — their second in as many

seasons. Although STLCC came away from the double elimination tournament without a win, they finished the season with an overall record of 15-7-2. The Lady Archers were led on the offensive side of the ball by sophomore forward Jessica Smugala and sophomore center Donna Jolliff. Smugala led the team with 20 goals and 11 assists, followed by Jolliff, with eight goals and eight assists. The tandem helped lead the Lady Archers to 79 goals scored, which put STLCC at 14th place, for the category, out of 130 NJCAA Division II teams. At the end of the 2014 spring semester, Head Coach Juergen Huettner left STLCC to coach at Southwestern Illinois College. Erin Hesselbach has been named the head coach for the 201415 season. ‘SINCE U BEEN GONE’ 45

Time to chillax After 31 years, STLCC-Meramec Manager of Campus Life and Student Activities Steve Brady retires SPENCER GLEASON EDITOR IN CHIEF In April 2014, Steve Brady’s son put a calendar up on his parents’ wall to mark the days his dad would be home by 5:30 p.m. The decision of whether or not the manager of campus life and student activities at Meramec for 31 years would retire at the end of the school year was a family one. “‘Dad, I’m going to help you decide,’” Brady said his son told him. “‘If you don’t make it home by 5:30 p.m. I’m putting an X on there. What you want to do is have a bunch of check marks.’” Brady’s writing was seen on the wall. Of the 22 workdays in the month of April, only three checkmarks made their way on the calendar that month. “I didn’t make it home until 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. at night because there was stuff that needed to be done here. I only know how to do things thoroughly to get them done, to help students make things happen. That takes time,” Brady said. “This job doesn’t have to be more than 40 hours a week, I guess. But I 46 ‘SINCE U BEEN GONE’

don’t know how to do that. If somebody from a club or an event comes up, I only know how to go at it full tilt.” Late days, along with a change in the college retirement plan scheduled for July 1, helped coax Brady to the other side of the fence. Brady, who has been the manager of Campus Life and Student Activities since 1983, has taken students to Washington D.C. and Jefferson City, Mo. to meet members of Congress and lobby with them; he started a leadership program at Meramec that has been extended to the STLCC district; he found the money to start up a Women’s History Month program; he has helped promote the music department, theatre department and art department. Anytime Friday night movies would be played on campus or there were activities in the quad area at Meramec, Brady was the man behind the scenes. “It’s been a fun ride. Just all kinds of things that we’ve started over the years, here at

ARCHIVED PHOTO

Meramec,” Brady said. “Some of the other programs and that, that are traditions, we sat around and said, ‘Okay. How do we do this? Where do we find the money?’ That kind of thing. Then put the money for it to make it happen.” For Brady, helping the students become a part of the community and of the community college was something that he said he found thrilling. “That’s really awesome. It’s something that I did when I was in college, so it’s something that I’ve related to real well,” Brady said. “I knew what things that they came up against, so I’ve got to work with them to help them out and get them to where they can start running stuff on their own.” A HUMBLE START Born in Omaha, Neb., Brady was number five of 11 kids — five brothers, five sisters. As a 10-year-old, Brady

and his family moved to St. Louis. Even as a child in Nebraska, Brady remembers being a St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan. And it was that same love of sports that originally brought Brady to STLCC. “I wanted to be a radio and television sportscaster. I went to Flo Valley in the summer of 1973, after I graduated because a friend of mine was on the track team,” Brady said. “I went to the radio station that they had at Flo Valley and they put me on the air. They taught me how to operate the board and all of that.” While doing play-by-play of some soccer games, Brady also was on the wrestling team, vice president of the student government and even qualified to go to nationals for the track team. A year after getting married, Brady finished his degree. “My wife said, ‘You need a degree.’ I was 41 hours short, by that time because

PHOTOS BY: SPENCER GLEASON

I had taken some classes at [Southern Illinois UniversityEdwardsville],” Brady said. “I took 41 hours in one year, while I was working full-time.” After graduating from STLCC-Florissant Valley, Brady applied for every job he was remotely qualified for, for STLCC, the next seven years. He knew he wanted to give back and join the STLCC family. In June 1983, the phone rang. It was a high school in south St. Louis and they wanted Brady to be their high school business teacher. Then the phone rang again. It was STLCC. “The folks at Meramec called,” Brady said. “And they said, ‘We want you to be our person.’ I said, ‘Okay. I’m there.’” Brady went to the high school and asked to be let out of his contract. The high school had all summer to find someone and STLCC was where Brady wanted to be.

Shortly after Brady started at Meramec, his wife got her master’s degree in counseling. Then she became a high school principal. “She was principal when my son graduated,” Brady said. “So, here’s this picture of a high school student hugging their principal and meaning it, at graduation.” The high school eventually closed down and she, too, became part of the Meramec family. “She got a job here parttime and was also at STLCCForest Park, teaching in the reading department. Then a reading position opened here and she applied for it and got hired,” Brady said. That was about eight years ago. Since then, the two would often try to meet up during their school day. “That was one of the things that she really liked. Occasionally we’d be able to do that,” Brady said. “Usually we’d try to do it at least a

Above: Steve Brady laughs during his retirement party on June 18, 2014. Left: Brady and his wife, Sandy, stand together for a photo opportunity during Brady’s retirement party. Archived photo from 1987.

couple times a week. Every once in a while she’d have a late class and I’d sit over and meet her for breakfast at Einstein’s or something. That was kind of cool.” ‘JOE COOL’ GETS THE GIRL A 19-year-old Brady walked into his brother’s house for a New Year’s Eve party. It was 1974 and the clock was about to tick over to 1975. “Joe Cool,” as he called himself, was going around checking out the girls and talking to them. “I came up to my wife and said, ‘what’s your name?’” Brady said. “’What do you do?’” As fate would have it, the lady was a teacher. “‘No kidding. What do you teach?’” Brady said. “She goes, ‘Sex Ed.’ So she had my attention from the get-go. I had to find out more about

that girl.” Brady continued talking to her more than any of the other people at the party. Then midnight hit. “Everybody goes around kissing everybody and that. So I go up to the sex ed. teacher and I gave her the best kiss I had in me. I really put a lot of effort into it,” Brady said. “And I said, ‘Okay, teach, what’s my grade?’ She goes, ‘B.’ ‘B? What do I have to do for an A?’ She goes, ‘Extracurricular activities.’ ‘Okay. I’m sold.’” That was 40 years ago. Despite life’s new chapter being unwritten, Brady said he is looking forward to the road ahead. Tomorrow, he gets to spend the day with his wife. “Now my wife is saying, ‘I’ve got my husband back. I’ll be able to spend time with him,’” Brady said. “It’ll be great fun. I’m still working on getting that A.” ‘SINCE U BEEN GONE’ 47

I got problems, but security ain’t

one “

What the cameras really do is allow you to investigate. It doesn’t prevent an incident from taking place,”

LIVIE HALL MANAGING EDITOR The installation of 67 internal cameras and seven exterior cameras on STLCCMeramec’s campus have already made the campus safer, Chief of Police Anthony Russo said. President Pam McIntyre said the cameras have allowed police to investigate incidents, identify suspects and follow up. “What the cameras really do is allow you to investigate. It doesn’t prevent an incident from taking place,” McIntyre said. The cost of the cameras came from a bill that included all of the STLCC campuses. Meramec was the first campus to have cameras installed. McIntyre said the original camera cost for Meramec was $125,076.25. The school then spent an additional $8,850.36 on additional cameras. “There was an initial set of cameras purchased for the 48 ‘SINCE U BEEN GONE’

different (STLCC) locations,” McIntyre said in an email. “Once the cameras were installed, the campus police indicated areas that they thought could use cameras. These were then installed.” Other safety features that the college has are emergency phone systems and Net Notifier - an Internet notification system. The phones on campus have speaker systems that go off in groupings when an alert is sent out. McIntyre said students will hear the alert once or twice depending on where they are on campus. The Internet service called Net Notifier sends emergency notifications to computers on campus. When using a computer, a notification pops up on the screen. McIntyre said this could be anything from an emergency weather update to intruders on campus. The computer systems

— President Pam McIntyre

have been in place for a few years and the phone systems have been around even longer, McIntyre said. When the Jevon Mallory incident took place in April of 2013, Russo said there were only a few exterior cameras on campus. With the new installation, Russo said they have already been used for investigative purposes. Russo described an incident that happened early in the fall of 2014. He said a group of male students were joking around, asking female students for high fives when they passed. The activity frightened one girl to the point where she filed a police report. Because of the cameras, Russo said they were able to zoom in and identify the male students. “[The cameras] are a deterrent,” Russo said. “Just like locks can’t prevent anything, they can deter. What cameras can do in addition is

detect. So to deter and detect are two big safety pluses for us.” Russo came to Meramec in the fall of 2013. He said he was “aware” of the Jevon Mallory incident and has been at his hearings, which have always resulted in a continuance. Russo’s said his biggest safety priority is to have his officer’s “visible and interactive.” He said he wants them to talk to people, introduce themselves and become a familiar face on campus. Russo said his officers are going through training programs and every officer will be fully trained before the fall 2014 semester. “There’s a lot of people always around, walking in the hallways or outside. I often see campus police walking around too,” Meramec student Karoline Mendyca said in an April 2014 issue of “The Montage.”

‘With Arms Wide Open’ Administration speaks out about changes on campus SPENCER GLEASON EDITOR IN CHIEF

Since making administrative changes at STLCC-Meramec, the campus held open fora throughout the 2013-14 school year for students and faculty. The fora allowed question-answer sessions with Meramec President Pam McIntyre, STLCC Interim Chancellor Dennis Michaelis, Ed. D. and about safety concerns and budget issues.

Safety

Budget

During the safety forum on Nov. 21, 2013, Manager of the Access Office and Disability Support Services Linda Nissenbaum and Interim STLCC-Meramec President Pam McIntyre brought light to how students and faculty can prepare for emergency situations on campus. Nissenbaum discussed what she considered to be helpful tactics prior to emergency situations at Meramec. “Students are expected to take certain steps to ensure their own safety. One of the things that we ask is that they consider a personal emergency plan. This is online and it’s in our student handbook,” Nissenbaum said. “Just be aware that this is available. We want people to fill this out and take some proactive planning for their own sake. It wouldn’t be bad for all of us to maybe take some proactive planning and make sure that we have all these things available,” she said.

During the budget forum on Nov. 11, 2013, Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration Kent Kay detailed the challenges for the 2015 fiscal year, which will begin on July 1, 2014 and go until June 30, 2015. According to Kay, STLCC has eight challenges for the fiscal year. Among those, STLCC would have to adjust budgets to reflect current and anticipated enrollment, adjust adjunct salary budgets to reflect actual enrollment and identify funds for a possible salary increase. Changes will also affect the way club and student activity money is disbursed for 20142015. “We are very fortunate — and I’ve looked at other community colleges,” Kay said, “to have the kind of support that the city of St. Louis and the county of St. Louis along with the little sliver of Jefferson and Franklin counties that we have and their support for community education.”

President Chancellor STLCC-Meramec President Pam McIntyre had an open forum on Nov. 20, 2013. The question and answer round-table atmosphere gave an opportunity for faculty to have an unguarded discussion with McIntyre. During the forum, McIntyre answered questions that dealt with STLCC’s removal from the League of Innovations and student tracking attendance issues, as well as higher education, updating the STLCC website and the Western Governors Association. The League of Innovation is an international organization dedicated to increasing the community college movement. It is made up of 19 schools that develops web resources, provides services and leads projects and initiatives to continue efforts to make positive differences for students and communities. STLCC was removed from the League during the Fall 2014 semester.

The final forum scheduled at STLCC-Meramec was the open forum with the Interim Chancellor Dennis Michaelis, Ed. D., on Monday, Dec. 2, 2013. After addressing the faculty, Michaelis answered questions and bounced potential ideas off of the Meramec staff. “As you can imagine, I have lots of responsibilities over the coming months. I take those responsibilities very seriously,” Michaelis said. “A great deal of that has to do with listening to what all of the people who work at STLCC have to say. I want your opinions. I want to hear what’s on your mind.” Michaelis discussed the number of interim and acting positions not only at Meramec, but all across STLCC. “The number of interim and acting positions, not only on this campus, but all across STLCC as well, concerns me,” Michaelis said. “I believe, that as soon as we can get to a point of stability or relative stability, the better off we are.” ‘SINCE U BEEN GONE’ 49

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THE MONTAGE

2013-2014