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ranger Serving San Antonio College since 1926
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Volume 90 Issue 13 • Feb. 29, 2016
210-486-1773 • Single copies free
Celebrate Women’s History Page 4
11 file in four district races Incumbents are challenged in all four races. By Kyle R. Cotton
kcotton11@student.alamo.edu
By 5 p.m. Feb. 19, 11 candidates had filed for one of four trustee seats open on the May 7 ballot. The Alamo College’s board of trustees serves as the policy maker for the five colleges across the county. By early afternoon Feb. 17 only the four incumbents had filed. District 1 candidates include
incumbent Joe Alderete and artist Juan Hernandez Jr., 64. In District 2, incumbent Denver McClendon will have to fight off three educators in Instructor Paul Marcus Deadrick, 45; retired educator Viviana Valdez Sandoval, 65; and teacher Elmo Murry Aycock III, 39. In District 3, incumbent Anna Bustamante, development consultant Anthony John Alcoser, 34, and National
Guardsman Joschua Kristofer Harvey-Beres, 28, will run. In District 4, incumbent Marcelo Casillas, and educator Phillip “Felipe” Vargas, 38 will face-off. Casillas was appointed when Albert Herrera, former District 4 trustee, resigned March 18, 2015. Herrera was elected in May 2014. The winner of the District 4 race will serve the remainder of Herrera’s term, which ends in 2020. Visit Alamo.edu/board/ elections or call board liaison Sandra Mora at 210-485-0030.
AlamoInstitutes reorganize departments Chairs should see a final draft proposal this week. By Wally Perez
gperez239@student.alamo.edu
B-cycle owner Caleb Choate and station installer Ted Lucas apply grip tape to the newly completed cycle station Wednesday outside Gonzales. This is the second B-cycle station on this campus and 1 of 58 total in the city. Brandon A. Edwards
Department chairs at this college are soon to be downsized with a proposed reorganziation of departments to better fit the AlamoInstitutes. The AlamoInstitutes are career pathways, which include academic programs that suit their respective institute, which include creative and communications arts, business and entrepreneurship, health and biosciences, advanced manufacturing and logistics, public service and science and technology.
The last-known proposal had three chairs assigned to the creative and communications arts institute, five to the science and technology institute, one to the business and entrepreneurship institute and three to the public service institute. The proposed plan was distributed during a joint chairs meeting Feb. 4, and chairs were given until Feb. 19 to provide feedback. Chairs submitted feedback to the deans and Dr. Jothany Blackwood, vice president of academic success. Chairs have had the chance to look over the proposal and changes were to be presented to the college executive team Tuesday. It’s all about equity, workload and aligning
See ALAMOINSTITUTES, Page 8
online now Trustees pleased with D.C. trip Faulty wire causes three-day outage in Candler, Scobee
International students can stick together after graduation
Active shooter drill Feb. 11 left faculty, students vulnerable
Chain of communication is one key to a successful drill, risk manager says. By Melissa Luna
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Some students and employees remained in the dark after a less-than-successful active shooter drill at this college Feb. 11. “Something always goes wrong in a drill,” Mike Legg, director of enterprise risk management, said. “That’s the nature of a drill.” When a drill is scheduled to happen, the college must follow a chain of communication to ensure the campus knows about it, he said. Alamo Colleges police dispatch communicates with the college’s building action team, which then communicates with public relations. Every college has its own building action team, which always includes the office of the vice president for student success. PR is then responsible for notifying the general college population about the drill by calling and emailing everyone is in the system, before and after the drill. It is important for students, staff and faculty to keep their contact information up-to-date in Canvas because that is how they will be contacted, Cpl. Adriana De Hoyos said. De Hoyos is this college’s corporal campus coordinator. “What happened Feb. 11 is that the dispatch department didn’t send out the original message to
See ACTIVE, Page 7
Board discusses success at National Legislative Summit. By Kyle R. Cotton
kcotton11@student.alamo.edu
Members of the Alamo College’s board discussed their Feb. 8-12 trip to Washington to the Association of Community College Trustees’ National Legislative Summit and how congressional representatives responded to community college needs. The Alamo Colleges sent District 7 trustee Yvonne Katz, District 9 trustee Clint Kingsbery, District 6 trustee Gene Sprague, District 5 trustee Roberto Zárate and student trustee Sami Adames. The trustees said members of Congress recognized the importance of community colleges to economic development. The summit’s goal was to communicate the national priorities of the association to the Legislature. Kingsbery said during the board’s Feb. 23 meeting at Killen Center, the priorities they stressed to Congress were extensions of Pell grant eligibility, extending Pell grant money use for summer and to extend from 12 semesters to 14. Other priorities were the reauthorization of the Higher Education and Perkins act, each of which authorizes numerous financial aid programs. Katz said members of congress were particularly receptive to ACCT’s suggestion about Pell grants, particularly extensions for summer use so students can get out quicker with three full semesters for the academic year. Katz noted Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) and other Texas representatives were appreciative of the perspectives of the four students from Texas, including Sami Adames. “I’ve been to these meeting before, and in the past, it sort of looked like they listen to us. We got our picture taken a lot of times, but this is the first time I saw a recognition
District 2 trustee Denver McClendon laughs Feb. 23 at Killen Center as District 7 trustee Yvonne Katz quotes Catherine Rampell, a Washington Post columnist who spoke at the Association of Community College Trustees’ legislative summit. Rampell said, “Community colleges use to be state funded, then state supported, and now they are just state located.” Kyle R. Cotton of the critical importance of community colleges,” Sprague said. “We’ve been talking to the business community and every single major business, without exception, said community colleges are the most crucial element of economic development in this country and we want to do whatever we can to help,” Sprague said, quoting the chief of staff for Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX). “I got that same message down the line across the aisle from John Cornyn, (Rep.) Joaquin Castro (D-TX). It was down the line.” “They finally know how important we are,” Sprague said. “We need to reinforce that and stay in touch with our elected officials and tell them about all the great things we are doing.” Sprague said Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX) and Castro requested the Alamo College’s data so they could act on it. “I’ve never had that channel opened up to me before.” Zárate, chair of the ACCT board of direc-
tors, noted his meeting with Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), who are leading the effort for the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. “The organization did a great job at positioning our membership and spoke on very pointed and targeted issues and we’re hoping it will have some payback,” Zárate said. Zárate said ACCT offered their resources to the two senators. “The only regret I had was that I couldn’t interact with the Texas group since I was with the national group, but again we all had the same message.” Chancellor Bruce Leslie was not at the meeting, but Diane Snyder, vice chancellor for finance and administration, filled in. Thomas Cleary, vice chancellor of planning, performance, accreditation and information and the acting chancellor in Leslie’s absence, said Leslie was in Colorado on a ski trip and conducting business with FranklinCovey.
SAConnected
2 • Feb. 29, 2016
www.theranger.org/calendar
Science rules
Above: Biology sophomore Brenda Velasquez pours a mixture into a filtering system Tuesday inside chemistry and geology to separate salt from sand. Brandon A. Edwards
Round 1 Left: Nicolas Ramirez from Ramos Boxing Team begins to attack nursing sophomore Alfred Serna during the Golden Gloves tournament Tuesday at Woodlawn Gym. Read the story online. Alejandro Diaz
Vet respect Business administration sophomore Victor Hernandez, Student Veterans Association president, talks with Cris Vieyra Jr., Commander of VFW Post 8397, before the Victory Center groundbreaking ceremony at this college Wednesday. Read the story online. Melissa Luna
today tues
SAC Event: Graduation Push Week. Continues until Thursday. SAC Event: Graduation information session 9-11 a.m. in Room 218A and B of the nursing complex. Email sac-grad@ alamo.edu. PAC Event: Our Lady of the Lake University recruiters 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in student center. Call 210-486-3131. SAC Event: Rosary by the Catholic Student Association 12:15 p.m. in the Catholic Student Center. Email catholicstudentassociationsac@gmail. com. NLC BHM Event: Literary and cultural showcase 11 a.m.4 p.m. Room 201 of the student commons building. Call 210-485-0200. SAC Meeting: Cheshyre Cheese Club 1:30 p.m. in Room 203 of Gonzales. Call 210-486-1433. SAC Event: Foosball doubles tournament 2-4 p.m. in game room of Loftin. Free. Call 210-486-0129.
SAC Event: Transfer Fair 9 a.m.-noon in the Fiesta Room of Loftin. Email sac-grad@ alamo.edu. PAC Event: Texas A&M-San Antonio recruiters 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in student center. Call 210-486-3131. Event: ArtFULL Wednesdays: “Sprechen Sie Deutsch: German Language” noon-1 p.m. Continues Wednesdays. McNay, 600 N. New Braunfels. Call 210-824-5368. SAC Meeting: Student Social Work Association 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Room 650 of Moody. Email hernandezatexas@yahoo.com. SAC Meeting: Campus Crusade for Christ 12:15-1:15 p.m. Room 002 of Chance. Call 210-486-1233.
Word
Local artist Adrian Mullen recites an untitled poem while his wife, Nancy Mullens, a local business owner and artist, paints a charcoal portrait of a woman’s face for student success specialist Dee Dixon at the Black History Month Poetry Slam Feb. 18. Melissa Luna
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PAC Event: Job Fair 9 a.m.noon in the student center annex. Call 210-486-3324.
PAC Event: St. Mary’s University recruiters 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in student center. Call 210-486-3131.
NLC Event: Billiards tournament registration deadline. Tournament begins Monday. Call 210-486-5404.
NVC Event: Vista Vista, for students wishing to enroll for summer and fall 2016 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Visit www. alamo.edu/nvc/visitvista/ to submit a form for attendance.
PAC Event: Texas A&M-San Antonio recruiters 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in student center. Call 210-486-3131.
SAC Event: Spring 2016 Flex 2 new student orientation 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. first floor of Loftin. Call 210-486-0125.
SAC Event: Grad Rally, free food, music and more 11 a.m.1 p.m. in the mall. Email sacgrad@alamo.edu. SAC Meeting: Students for Environmental Awareness 2 p.m. at Sinkin EcoCentro. Call 210-563-0447.
SAC Meeting: Future Teachers Organization 1:452:45 p.m. in Room 108 of Gonzales. Call 210-643-2165.
SAC Event: Speaker rebroadcast Kat Cole by National Society of Leadership and Success 2-4 p.m. in craft room of Loftin. Continues 2-4 p.m. Thursday. Call 210-4860134.
SAC Event: Graduation information session 2-4 p.m. in Room 218A and B of the nursing complex. Email sac-grad@ alamo.edu.
SAC Meeting: Faculty Senate meeting 3-5 p.m. Room 120 in visual arts. SAC Basketball: Women’s vs. St. Philip’s College 6 p.m. in Gym 1 of Candler. Call 210-486-0125. SAC Basketball: Men’s vs. Northeast Lakeview 8 p.m. in Gym 1 of Candler. Call 210-486-0125.
SAC Meeting: Student Activity Fee Committee 3-4:45 p.m. in president’s large conference room in Fletcher. SAC Event: Seven-on-seven coed soccer league by student life 3-7 p.m. at Olmos Basin Park. Call 210486-0129.
SAC Event: San Pedro Springs Park Cleanup by civic engagement and volunteer service 9 a.m.noon. Call 210-486-0126. NVC Event: Psi Beta tour of the clarity child guidance center 10-11:15 a.m. Email sgrande@student.alamo.edu. SAC Meeting: Asian Pop Society 2-5 p.m. craft room of Loftin. Email apopofsac@ gmail.com. Read the story online at theranger.org. SAC Meeting: Staff Council meeting 2:30-3:30 p.m. in faculty/staff lounge in Loftin. Call 210-486-1208.
SAC Event: National Society of Leadership and Success New Member Orientation 10-11:30 a.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0134. SAC Event: National Society of Leadership and Success Training Day noon-3 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0134. SAC Meeting: National Society of Leadership and Success-Success Networking Team Meeting 3-5 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0134.
sun Deadline: Spring 2016 Flex 2, last day to withdraw online for a 100 percent refund.
mon
PAC Event: “Nursing Program Advising Session” by UT Health Science Center San Antonio. One-on-one, 15-minute advising sessions by appointment 8 a.m.-noon Room 114 in Palomino Center. Call 210486-3664. SAC Event: Karaoke 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0128. SAC Meeting: Student Government Association noon1 p.m. in craft room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0133. SAC Event: Rosary by the Catholic Student Association 12:15 p.m. in the Catholic Student Center. Email catholicstudentassociationsac@gmail. com. SAC Meeting: Cheshyre Cheese Club 1:30 p.m. in Room 203 of Gonzales. Call 210-486-1433. SAC Meeting: Club AMAR 3 p.m. in the craft room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0601.
Deadline: Spring 2016 Flex 2, last day for web registration.
PAC Volleyball: Women’s vs. the University of Incarnate Word 7 p.m. in the gymnasium. Call 210486-3805.
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For coverage in SAConnected, call 210-486-1773 or e-mail sac-ranger@alamo.edu two weeks in advance. xandra Nelipa
Illustrations by Ale
Visit theranger.org for more upcoming events.
News
www.theranger.org/news
Feb. 29, 2016 • 3
FTO helps education students focus long term By Christie Tavera
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Students discussed marketing, conference updates, partnerships and scholarships Feb. 18 at the first spring meeting of the Future Teachers Organization. Veronica Spring Jones, newly elected president and education sophomore, welcomed everyone by announcing the club’s newest officers. Members were encouraged to apply for scholarships available through the Alamo Colleges website at alamo.edu/sac/scholarships. Priority deadline is April 3. With several scholarships up for grabs, Jones advised students to be specific in answering questionnaires and writing essays. “Think of reality TV. Be dramatic. Add the detail!” Jones said. Professor Mary Anne Bernal, who sits on the scholarship review committee, explained that students leave off important information about their community service and leadership experi-
Education sophomore Kaylee Estrada, historian for the Future Teachers Organization seeks clarification about volunteer opportunities at Scobee Education Center. Norma Cruz-Gonzales, one of the organization’s sponsors, is encouraging the members to get out and volunteer at educational fairs and conferences to make an identity for themselves as part of the Future Teachers Organization Feb. 18 in Gonzales Hall. Ryann Palacios ence on the applications. She pointed out the more information you provide, the better. Look at the long term, she said.
The organization has newly forged partnerships between the University of Texas at San Antonio’s College of Education and Human Development and at least three clubs there.
Education students are encouraged to obtain early experience by volunteering to mentor for clubs such as the Academy for Teacher Excellence and robotics clubs. Membership in the Future Teachers Organization is not required to volunteer, all students are welcome. Education students should also consider attending local conferences where they can volunteer and connect with other educators. “A lot of students don’t understand how important it is to attend these conferences as part of their professional development,” said English Professor Norma Cruz-Gonzales. Club members were asked to help with Saturday’s “Out In Space, Down to Earth”, the 22nd Annual Educator Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Conference at Scobee Education Center. Bernal summed it up by saying, “The club is here to support you and your journey.” Education students seeking additional experience or opportunities, call the Future Teachers Organization at 210-486-0658.
Social work association hopes to obtain a student life grant The new association will sort out long-term and short-term goals. By R. Eguia
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Students illustrated how diverse the social work field is on Tuesday when they introduced themselves at the student Social work Association and stated their interest in the field. Those interests included disabled veterans, Peace Corps, foster children, social policies, abused children, adult education and social research. Social work Professor Courtney Prior facilitated the meeting in the absence of social work Professor Beatrix Perez who had a previous engagement. When one student said they had no idea what they were going to do in the social work field, Prior said, “It’s OK to not know because this is a place to share resources, plans and ideas.” The 14 social work majors who attended the meeting signed up for
volunteer hours at their fundraising booth and to help clean up San Pedro Springs Park. Ryan Mixon, president of the association, said, “We are still in the baby steps of our club.” The association started in the fall and they are fine-tuning their longand short-term goals. Mixon said it is not easy to start a club, and a lot of their recent meetings have focused on the foundations and organizations of the club and recruiting people. Social work sophomore Rene Ortega said talking to others has helped him with planning his future in the social work field, which he said is unlike other majors because there are so many different avenues to pursue. Ortega has worked at a children’s shelter and is learning about other options from the association. Mixon’s long-term goals for the club will be determined by the association’s continuous efforts to survey students.
Treasurer Sheila Phillips, Secretary Arturo Hernandez and member Yolanda Chislon of the Student Social Work Association joke about how to make volunteer events more exciting for everyone in Moody Learning Center Tuesday. The association is a new club in its second semester. Ryann Palacios The club last sampled about 100 students inquiring about social problems students were experiencing. Mixon said there are a lot of homeless students on this campus. He wants to create a localized program for this college that will target the most prevalent social problems.
The association wants to offer the best services for students and is considering hosting a free lunch to fight student hunger. The club is planning a trip to Dallas sometime in spring to learn more about the social work education system.
“It’s hard to pinpoint social problems because there are so many factors,” Mixon said. “One bad decision can change your life. It’s not easy to be a human being today,” he said. For more information, call 210309-1545.
Everyone a winner at the first Men of SPC event Speakers discussed scholarships, HIV testing and training for job success. By R.Eguia
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Nine students attended the Men of SPC event Feb. 17 at St. Philip’s College, along with 10 faculty members and various organizations. All of the students participated in a raffle and everyone won something. Three $50 gift cards from the campus bookstore were awarded. Other prizes included pizzas and bags complete with a T-shirt, planner and other St. Philip’s swag. Physical therapy sophomore Albert Pacheco won a grab bag and said it is hard returning to college after being out of school for several years.
gram at St. Philip’s. The event was organized by Kevin Shantz, St. Philip’s “Life happens. We gotta service-learning coordinator work. We become dads. We in absence of Dr. Paul Machen, have to pay rent,” Pacheco dean of student success, who said. had a previous engagement. He received extra credit “We understand that colin his human lege is not the anatomy class only thing going Life happens. for attending on in their lives,” We gotta work. the Men of SPC Shantz said. We become event. “There is a lot dads. We have “I won’t qualmore going on. to pay rent. ify for all of the We see a difAlbert Pacheco, ferent group of programs they physical therapy talked about, students each sophomore but I will pass semester.” the word along,” He said he said. these events are a part of a Pacheco is optimistic simultaneous strategy in the about the success of his little long-term efforts for student brother in school because he success. has received a lot of mentorShantz passed around ship from the aviation pro- sign-up sheets for several
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interest groups for students to join and possibly find mentorships. These included sports groups; a home renovation group; a “geek” group for comics and games; a tennis group; and a fantasy football group. He wants to see more activities at the next event in addition to lectures. Community service specialist Michelle Hoothe spoke on behalf of this city’s department of human services. She talked about the Training for Job success program that pays for a student’s tuition, textbooks, uniforms and equipment and gives support from a case manager who will assist them with finding a job if they qualify. Call human services at 210-
207-5929. Students had an opportunity to suggest an organization or speaker they want to attend the next meeting. One nursing student suggested a health care professional speak next time about navigating the health care career field. Sociology sophomore Taylor McAllister said some men might not complete college because their financial aid is cut off. Gloria Hernandez, St. Philip’s College scholarship coordinator, told students about scholarships available with approaching deadlines. St. Philip’s College awards about $600,000 in scholarships annually, she said. One public health representative spoke about HIV and
HIV testing available on the college campus. Three academic advisers were available to the students after the speakers. One adviser talked about the approaching deadlines for a study abroad scholarship opportunity for summer 2017. Political science freshman Percival Bragg said he will attend the next Men of SPC event to learn more about opportunities he didn’t know about before. The next meeting will be at noon-1:30 p.m. March 23 and April 20 at the Morgan Gallery on the Martin Luther King campus of St. Philip’s College. No registration is required. For more information, call Dr. Paul Machen at 210-4862157 or John Martin at 210486-2241.
Prem
4 • www.theranger.org/premiere
Women’s History A spa day, fashion show and guest speakers highlight the month. By Wally Perez
gperez239@student.alamo.edu
This college will kick off Women’s History Month with events such as documentary screenings, a fashion show and a book discussion,
Magic Closet Rebecca Boles, wardrobe consultant at the Magic Closet, helps Christine Smith, 57, find the right outfit Feb. 24 at the Magic Closet. Boles had
Illustration by Estefania B. Alonso
Smith extend her arms to see how the length of a blue blazer fit while trying to find the right one. Boles was able to find a black blazer that fit on the second try. Read the story at www.theranger.org. Wally Perez
Dress for success Christine Smith, 57, watches as Rebecca Boles, wardrobe consultant at the Magic Closet, browses the selection and makes recommendations. Smith has been to the boutique once before and loves the help they offer women who need assistance acquiring a professional outfit. She left with a blazer, a blouse, slacks and shoes. Wally Perez
Society encourages women in engineering Club hopes to be first Texas community college recognized by national group. By Wally Perez
gperez239@student.alamo.edu
A student group stressing the importance of women in science, technology, engineering and math is being revitalized this semester. The campus chapter of the Society of Women Engineers is working to increase membership. “Our goal is to expand education for women in the STEM field,” said Ashlee Davison, SWE president and engineering sophomore. “Seventeen percent of all engineering across the world is done by women; we have to beat the odds against these numbers,” Davison said. “Here at SAC, I believe the percentage is better, but internationally there is a low representation.” There are 11 members in the group, but Davison hopes to reach about 20 by the end of the semester. “We’re fundraising and trying to get more members; we need to get the word out to all the engineering women on campus and others interested that we’re here,” she said. “There are about 80 women engineering students at SAC according to our adviser, Ms. (Susan) Denny.” The society will host a coffee hour 5-6 p.m. Thursday at
old, but it dropped off last spring, she said. “We have goals and ideas we’d like to accomplish for the fall,” Candlelight coffeehouse. Davison said. A fundraiser, which the group The group has applied for the calls a “brain food breakfast,” will Faculty/Staff Innovation Grant to be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. March 8 in the work with children on 3-foot-high mall. Breakfast tacos and coffee tabletop windmills. will be served. These windmills feature buildDavison said it can be hard for your-own turbine blades, which women in STEM classes. will measure different outputs “It’s challenging … it seems according to blade size and shape. that if you walk into something The kit also comes with mini like a physics class, the guys there generators so the children can know how to work all the learn what a generaequipment; it almost tor is and how it seems intrinsic to works. them,” she said. “We’re plan“We didn’t all ning to go out and grow up playing connect with younger with Legos or erector students in the commusets; not all of us had that nity, such as underadvantage.” Estefania B. Alonso privileged schools and “As a group, we’re kind of havcommunities if we get the grant,” ing to beat the odds of being born she said. women and wanting to be engiDavison hopes to expand from neers,” Davison said. “It seems that being a society on campus to being a lot of the women in the field are connected to the Society of Women more reserved. You don’t really see Engineers on a national level. them speaking up in class as much; SWE is a huge international there’s somewhat of an intimidaorganization for women who are tion factor.” engineers. It’s not just a local group The society allows women to here on campus, she said. feel comfortable in sharing their In the next two weeks, the group ideas; it builds self-esteem, she said. will submit an application to the The society is a couple of years national SWE organization to join
as a collegiate interest group. With enough members, it could become an official collegiate group. “We would be the first collegiate group at a community college in Texas if we are accepted,” she said. If accepted, the group can receive benefits such as funding for outreach events, contest opportunities and the ability to attend the national conference in Philadelphia in October. The group is also planning social events where members and potential members can hang out and get to know one another. Davison hopes they build enough momentum to get the group up and running for the fall and encouraged, the women at this college to not sit in silence or be overshadowed by men. “I was taught that you have to be better than the boys; you have to know more and be better at everything in general to be taken seriously; that’s what we do here,” she said. “We try to get everyone’s chops up so they know how to communicate with employers and the community in a professional manner.” The group meets 3-4 p.m. every Monday in the MESA Center, Room 204 of Chance Academic Center. Email Davison at ashleerose25@ gmail.com.
throughout March, beginning with an opening ceremony 9:30-10:40 a.m. Wednesday in the Fiesta Room of Loftin Student Center. Dr. Jothany Blackwood, vice president of academic success, will speak on the importance of women’s leadership in higher education and society during the opening session. Dr. Lisa Zottarelli is the chair of the Women’s History Month Committee this year. “The month is a great time for us to celebrate the contributions that women have made to society and appreciate them,” Zottarelli said. “It’s important that students have the opportunity to learn Women’s outside of their classes; they have need to be a chance to learn about a lot of Lisa things outside as a community, Women’s Hi such as events like women’s hiscom tory,” Zottarelli said. “Women’s stories need to be told.” Three documentary films will be played in rotation 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday in the craft room of Loftin. The films are “Abuelas: Grandmothers on a Mission,” a Spanish documentary about Grandmothers of the Plaza de Mayo, a human rights organization looking to find children who were stolen and illegally adopted during the Argentine Dirty War; “Rights & Wrongs: The Story of Women in Islam,” a documentary exploring the past and present conditions of Muslim women
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From child Dr. June Scobee Rodgers’ work with the Challenger Center By Jeff Tomecsko
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, founding chair of the Challenger Center, is an inspiration to not only women but everyone for her perseverance in overcoming the toughest obstacles. As a child she lived with her mother and three brothers in San Antonio subsidized housing. “There was a tremendous struggle between school and living in poverty,” Rodgers said. “They wanted to put me back in grades because they thought I was not capable.” She read a book when she was 9 years old that was given to her mother called “The Power of Positive Thinking” by Norman Vincent Peale. “It was simple enough I was able to coin my own advice to myself,” Rodgers said. “And I called it my ABCs. A stood for attitude … B is for belief … C is for courage.” Each letter contributed to how she would approach every situation in a positive manner. It was this advice that got her through her struggles with poverty, education and great loss. She met Dick Scobee at her church, Mayfield Park Baptist. He was enlisted in the Air Force while she was finishing her senior year at Harlandale High School. The pair married in June 1959. They both knew they wanted a college education; Scobee wanted to be a pilot and Rodgers a teacher. The biggest struggle was finances. They both learned about this college and signed up for night classes, while they
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Feb. 29, 2016 • 5
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and the myths and misunderstandings about their roles in Islam; and “Saving Face,” a documentary about acid attacks on women in Pakistan and their fight for justice against their attackers. These documentaries were picked because of the subject matter and the representation of women and hardships that they face all over the world, Zottarelli said.
Pamper Our Women Day brings free massages, nail polish stations, smoothies and more the following week from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. March 9 in the Fiesta Room of Loftin. Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, president of Texas A&M San Antonio, will speak on women in leadership roles 9:25-10:40 a.m. March 10 in Room 218 of the nursing complex. During the event, the recipients of the 2016 Women-In-History Month Ann Richards Endowed Scholarship also will be announced. Two documentaries will be showing on rotation 8 a.m.-4 p.m. the same day in the craft room of Loftin. stories The films are “Mothers of e told. Bedford,” a documentary about Zottarelli, mothers in prison and their life istory Month with their families while inside, mmittee chair and “Service: When Women Come Marching Home,” a documentary about the hardships that some women in service face after leaving the military. The Magic Closet will be sponsoring a fashion show noon-1 p.m. March 23 in the Fiesta Room of Loftin titled “Women Helping Women Succeed.” Students will model clothes donated to the Magic Closet, which provides students with professional business attire for job interviews. The Women’s History Month SAC Book Club will be discussing Rebecca Skloot’s “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” 9:30-10:40 a.m. March 24
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in Loftin. “We’re hoping that those who attend have read the book and we can have a discussion over it. If people haven’t read it, then they have a chance to learn a bit about it and see if they want to pick it up for themselves,” Zottarelli said. The month will end with a Women’s Health Fair 10 a.m.-1 p.m. March 31 in the Fiesta Room of Loftin. For more information, call 210-4860998 or student life at 210-486-0128.
dhood poverty to bold, inspiring leader
Dr. June Scobee Rodger holds her book “Silver Linings” after a book-signing ceremony in February 2011 in front of Scobee Planetarium. Her late husband, Dick Scobee, was the commander for the 1986 Challenger mission. File
obee, wife of Francis R. “Dick” Scobee and founder of the Challenger Center for Space Science Education, speaks to reporters in April the Scobee Planetarium. Scobee visited to discuss the possibility of relocating the center to this college. File
to pay tuition during the day. y got to the point where they had e money, so they discussed their . gers decided to postpone her on and put the remainder of the they earned to focus on Scobee ould attend full time and finish his te degree. plan included Scobee finishing ociate and earning a scholarship could complete his bachelor’s
r that, Rodgers would return to to complete her teaching degree. plan changed while Scobee was
attending the University of Arizona when they decided to start a family. Their daughter, Kathie Scobee Fulgham, was born January 1961 in San Antonio and Major General Richard Scobee was born April 1964 in Arizona. It was not until Scobee became a pilot and was stationed in South Carolina that Rodgers returned to school, where she completed her bachelor’s degree in biology and English with a minor in education at Charleston Southern University. After graduating, she became a teacher while Scobee was a test pilot. During this time, she received her master’s degree in curriculum and
instruction from Chapman College in Orange, California. Scobee was later became an astronaut and the family moved to Houston in 1978. While in Houston, Rodgers attended Texas A&M in College Station earning her doctorate in specializations in reading, psychology, science and technology. She graduated in May 1983, a year before her husband did his first space exploration. It was after his expedition that Scobee was selected to join the crew for the Challenger mission. Rodgers worked closely with her hus-
band in getting to know the crew members of the Challenger expedition and their families. On Jan. 28, 1986, the Challenger was on its 10th mission when 73 seconds after takeoff it began to break apart. The shuttle ultimately exploded and killed all seven crew members. The surviving family members channeled their grief by creating the Challenger Center that same year. They turned to Rodgers as the founding chair of the Challenger Center because of her teaching background. The mission of the Challenger Center is to continue educating future generations about space. Rodgers eventually quit teaching to focus on the mission of the Challenger
Center. “There were times that I thought I would give up,” she said. “I can’t get the money to do this. It’s just so hard.” She struggled to find funding for the program but she found help in close friends to keep the program going and growing. While attending televised events for the program, she realized she couldn’t quit. If she quit, she would be giving up on the Challenger crew’s goal to educate people about space exploration. She feels the program’s creation has become a real living tribute for those lost in the explosion. It maintains their mission of space travel and something for children to look up to. Thirty years since the accident, a total of 40 Challenger centers have been constructed in three countries. There are plans to construct 10 more centers. The Challenger Center here has the newest program with the most advanced technology to date. The programs are open to all, from pre-school to college students. All centers engage with about 400,000 students a year across the globe. The program strengthens participants’ knowledge in science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM fields. Overall, the Challenger centers have reached 4.4 million students.
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For more information on June Scobee Rodgers, visit www.junescobeerodgers.com/ or www.facebook.com/ScobeeRodgers For more information on the Challenger Center, visit www.challenger.org/
6 • Feb. 29, 2016
www.theranger.org/editorial
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Managing Editor Mandy Derfler Assistant Managing Editor – Features Wally Perez Staff Writers Tiffany Anne Bermea, R. Eguia, Rebecca Nicole Flores, Tim Hernandez, Melissa Luna, Jerico Magallanes, Hillary E. Ratcliff, C.J. Tavera, Jeff Tomecsko, Photographers Brandon A. Edwards, David Guel, Vince Reyna Photo Team Janell Arnold, Alison M. Graef, Raffy Gubser, Robert Limon, Aly Miranda, Ryann Palacios, Aaron Rincon, Areana Rodriguez Video Team Jose Arredondo, Alejandro Diaz, Katelynn Alexa Garcia, Jon Hernandez, Ty-Eshia Johnson Illustrators Estefania B. Alonso, Juan Carlos Campos Alexandra Nelipa Copy Editor Carlos Ferrand Distribution Manager Shelly Delgado
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©2016 by The Ranger staff, San Antonio College, 1819 N. Main Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212-4299. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission. The Ranger news outlets, which serve the Alamo Community College District, are laboratory projects of journalism classes in the Department of Media Communications at San Antonio College. The Ranger is published Mondays except during summer, holidays and examinations. The Ranger Online is available at www.theranger. org. News contributions accepted by telephone (210-486-1773), by fax (210-486-9292), by email (sac-ranger@alamo.edu) or at the editorial office (Room 212 of Loftin Student Center). Advertising rates available by phone 210-4861765 or as a download at www.theranger.org. The Ranger is a member of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association, the Associated Collegiate Press and the Texas Community College Journalism Association. Guest Viewpoints: Faculty, staff, students and community members are welcome to contribute guest viewpoints of up to 450 words. Writers should focus on campus or current events in a critical, persuasive or interpretative style. All viewpoints must be published with a photo portrait of the writer. Letters Policy: The Ranger invites readers to share views by writing letters to the editor. Space limitations force the paper to limit letters to two double-spaced, typewritten pages. Letters will be edited for spelling, style, grammar, libel and length. Editors reserve the right to deny publication of any letter. Letters should be emailed to sac-ranger@alamo. edu. Letters also may be brought to the newspaper office in Room 212 of Loftin Student Center, mailed to The Ranger, Department of Media Communications, San Antonio College, 1300 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio TX 78212-4299 or faxed to 210-486-9292. Letters must be signed and must include the printed name and telephone number. Students should include classification, major, campus and Banner ID. Employees should include title and telephone number. For more information, call 210-486-1773. Single Copy Policy: Members of the Alamo Community College District community are permitted one free copy per issue because of high production costs. Where available, additional copies may be purchased with prior approval for 50 cents each by contacting The Ranger business office. Newspaper theft is a crime. Those who violate the single-copy rule may be subject to civil and criminal prosecution and subject to college discipline.
Juan Carlos Campos
Target sharp active shooter drill Building action team needs to better prepare and improve communication. Drills have been a normal part of educational life for years, it’s something that is dreaded and viewed as a necessary inconvenience. However, when those who organize the drill fail to properly inform those who will be participating, there is a problem. With concealed carry at community colleges just a year away this is the one drill that can’t be and shouldn’t be disorganized. Designated leaders for sections of the campus tell faculty and students when the drill begins and ends. When it was time, the automatic doors locked, but when the drill was over a few leaders were not informed
An active shooter demonstration File
that the drill had ended creating confusion when they heard the door unlock interfering with what should be class time. It would be one thing if this were a fire drill that requires the movement of every classroom to designated areas. By the nature of moving so many people, things easily can go wrong somewhere. However, an active shooter drill doesn’t require any group movement.
It’s about hiding where you are. It’s precisely about making sure no one moves. Drills shouldn’t fail because of poor communication. If the building action team can’t give proper notification during a drill, what comfort will faculty and students have when the real shooting incident occurs? An active shooter isn’t going to stand around and wait for everybody to get the memo and hide as if it were a friendly game of hide and seek. Mike Legg, director of enterprise risk management, ensured people he will figure out what went wrong with the active shooter drill Feb. 11. It’s good that Legg is meeting with his staff to figure out what went wrong, but this is the kind of thing that should go smoothly every time so when the real thing happens, students and faculty are prepared.
Take time to get it right first time Patience and focus at beginning will prevent need for so many revisions. The board of trustees voted through a policy change with wording that could be misconstrued, saying they can make revisions later. Policy H.1.1 says, “we are further committed to hire the best-qualified person to fill each available position and reward each employee based on his or her job performance.” This could be interpreted to mean merit-based pay, which is illegal under state law. The Policy and Long-range Planning Committee is the second-to-last committee meeting, just before Audit, Budget and Finance. These come after Student Success and Building Grounds and Sites Selection. The majority of the time spent at committee meetings is on Student Success, and that is great, but it should not be at the expense of everything else. By the time the trustees get around
to Policy and Long-range Planning, it is evident they want to go home because this section is always rushed through with little discussion about the policy changes. Audit, Budget and Finance is done even faster. If trustees would spend more time talking about changes, policy discrepancies like in H.1.1 can be caught before getting to the board of trustees for a vote. Once it gets to the board, no changes can be made. The trustees can either table the discussion and readdress the policy at next month’s meeting or vote it through with the intention to make more revisions later. In this instance, they chose to do the latter. This is lazy and potentially hazardous. In this particular instance, the added time to revisions will not cause immediate problems. District 9 trustee James Rindfuss, who has been a lawyer for 49 years, says he does not interpret the wording in a negative way, but can see the need for rewording. But what about future policy chang-
es in need of careful scrutiny? If the trustees continue as they have, it is clear these policies will not get the attention they deserve, putting policies in an endless cycle of constant revisions. During the board meeting Tuesday, Policy B.6.1 Board Committees, a policy from October, was finally fully revised and voted through without needing changes. In October, the amendment to move to a committee-of-the-whole model was voted through by the board but had to be revised before being put into action. Committee of the whole means all committees consist of all the trustees rather than the three or four actually assigned to a committee. The amendment forgot to note who would act as vice chair in the standing chair’s absence. Instead of rushing through committee meetings in an effort to leave as early as possible, trustees need to put in the necessary time to make sure the job is done right the first time.
News
www.theranger.org/news
Feb. 29, 2016 • 7
District forecasts more fields of studies
ACTIVE from Page 1
Mexican-American field expects graduates in 2018. By R. Eguia
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
A Mexican-American field of study is available to students attending St. Philip’s College. Cynthia Cortez teaches four classes in this field of study and has been working for approval since 2005. Cortez said the students demand for these classes and a study abroad in Mexico pushed her to get the field of study approved. Cortez attended a two-week study abroad with Alamo Colleges students in Oaxaca, Mexico, that helped her to organize an extension of the Mexican-American history course. “We learned so much about indigenous history while working in the Oaxaca community. There is so much history about indigenous roots that are incorporated into these courses,” Cortez said. A student may satisfy the history core requirement with MexicanAmerican History 1 and 2. Cortez said the field of study is relevant to the Alamo Colleges demographic: 57.9 percent Hispanic. Jo Carol Fabianke, vice president
for academic success, said the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is trying to approve of more fields of studies. The Texas Higher education code says a field of study is a set of courses that will satisfy the lower division requirements for a bachelor’s degree in a specific academic area. Fabianke said the focus is, ”really about serving the students’ needs. We want to ensure that students are taken care of at any college.” According to the Texas Higher education code, institutional evaluations of a field of study are based on making transfers to a four-year university easier and demand for employment in the proposed field. Transfer agreements exist with similar programs at the University of Texas at San Antonio and Our Lady of the Lake University. Cortez said many demanding industries require students in the Mexican-American field of study, such as museums, newspapers, nonprofit organizations and civil rights agencies. The district approved the Mexican-
American field of study on Jan. 19 after five levels of approval within the Alamo Colleges and the state. Fabianke said the multiple levels are meant to promote coordination and cohesiveness across the district so that everyone knows what decisions are being made. The curriculum includes HUMA 1305, Introduction to Mexican American Studies; HIST 2327 and 2328, Mexican American History 1 and 2; GOVT 2311, MexicanAmerican Politics; ENGL 2351, Mexican American Literature; SPAN 2312, Intermediate Spanish 2 or SPAN
Illustration by Alexandra Nelipa 2315, Spanish for Native Speakers 2; and HUMA 1311, Mexican American Fine Arts Appreciation. Cortez would ultimately like to see Mexican-American perspectives reflected in history curriculums for grades K-12. She said she is working with a special task force that is aiming to enhance dynamic history programs at all education levels. Cortez said the biggest issue in Mexican-American studies now is, “the need for knowledge. Not just an identity, but knowing who we really are. The indigenous roots that are beyond just being Hispanic.”
The tax man cometh Students need to prepare 2015 tax return to avoid deadline problems. By Tim Hernandez
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Students at this college can prepare themselves for the April 15 deadline for filing their annual tax return by gathering the necessary forms and instructions early. The best local resource for forms is the San Antonio Public Library where students can pick up 1040, 1040A and 1040EZ forms. Because of congressional budgetary cutbacks the library system will no longer carry the full range of IRS forms and publications available in previous years. The instructions for the forms will not be available at the public libraries. The library’s web site recommends calling ahead to verify that the required form is still available at the branch. To view the locations, hours and phone numbers of the library locations, visit www. mysapl.org/locations.aspx. If students cannot locate the forms locally or
need instructions, schedules or a publication, they can visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov or call 1-800-TAX-FORM (829-3676) to request forms and publications be mailed to their home address. In addition, the IRS website has the option of downloading PDF files of forms and publications, and they can also be printed directly from the website. The library system allows visitors to print for a fee. Students may also pick up forms and publications at the IRS office located at 8626 Tesoro Drive.
Students should call ahead at 210-841-2090 for hours and availability of specific forms. Students can also make an appointment to receive tax assistance at the IRS office. The library’s Income Tax Resource Guide at www.guides. mysapl.org/incometax provides other resources for students who wish to prepare their own tax return. The IRS website offers students the opportunity to e-file their tax return. Doing so requires an electronic filing PIN. Acquiring an electronic filing PIN requires a student to provide a self-select PIN or their adjusted gross income from their 2014 tax return. If a student doesn’t have either, they can get an electronic filing PIN if they meet either of the
the BAT team,” Legg said. “So, the chain was broken and not everyone was on the same page.” Pre-nursing freshman Clareena Pena said she did not know about the drill. “I trust that they want to keep us safe,” she said. “And if a few failed drills is what has to happen to make sure everything is perfect, then that’s fine,” she said. “Drills such as active shooter drills happen in phases, so we don’t lockdown the entire campus,” De Hoyos said. “There is a specified person within each building and/ or floor who acts as point of contact during the drill.” Everyone needs to close all doors and windows in the room and sit in the corner, she said. During a drill, risk management and emergency service responders check that buildings are secure. Will Davis, emergency management coordinator for Alamo Colleges, is scheduled to meet with Michael Parsons, protective services course coordinator, to follow up on the drill, Legg said. “I ensure you that we will figure out what went wrong,” Legg said. “We fully support everyone who wants to make this a successful drill.”
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), which offers free income tax services for eligible residents, has sites throughout the city during tax season, including St. Philip’s and Palo Alto. Visit www.vitasa.org for more information.
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following eligibility requirements: • They filed a 2014 Form 1040, Form 1040A, Form 1040EZ or Form 1040-SS (PR). • Their return was processed by Nov. 21, 2015. To file a tax return a student will need a copy of their 1098-T, Tuition Statement. The Alamo Colleges website has a link at www.alamo.edu/1098t/ so students can access www.1098t.com to download their 1098-T. Once the student has accessed 1098t.com they can click on ‘Access My Record’ at the upper left side of the home page. A student using the website should read all of the instructions at the top and the bottom of the next page to determine how to proceed.
KSYM celebrates Third Coast Music Network’s 25th anniversary Network focused on Texas roots music before expanding to include states of the Third Coast. By Jerico Magallanes sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Sam’s Burger Joint’s fluorescent sign glowed above a line of eager fans waiting to see country rock and soul funk band Shinyribs perform at KSYM’s celebration of Third Coast Music Network’s 25th anniversary. Third Coast has been on the air since 1991, showcasing “Cajun music, Texas music, Americana, folk, country, alt-country, along the lines of that,” music business sophomore Jacob Peirce said. “I was really into Texas music,” Third Coast Music Network founder Joe Horn said, “And nobody was playing any on the radio.” Horn’s general manager at the time, the late Fred Weiss, headed this college’s music business program. Weiss considered Third Coast to be “heritage programming” or what Horn called “Texas roots” music. Texas roots music consists of a broad take on blues, rock and country, Horn said. “It really was concentrating on Texas music, of the roots vari-
ety,” Horn said. “Surely, I realized, there was way more going on than the state of Texas. That’s when it became Third Coast, which is the left coast, the right coast, and then the third coast.” With Third Coast’s prominent history in San Antonio, radiotelevision-and-film students at this college have an opportunity to flex their radio broadcasting skills. Horn said Weiss wanted Third Coast and KSYM to be more of a city asset rather than just a radio lab for students. “It was more or less a laboratory for students,” Horn said. “Mr. Weiss was in the process of consolidating some ideas he had to change that. And there’s a difference with working in a lab as a student and being on the air live as a student.” Third Coast has a strong cult following in the city, with fans garnering usage names such as “New Orleans Bob.” “The music they play, it’s not programmed,” Robert “New Orleans Bob” Herzog , Air Force veteran and long time Third Coast supporter, said. “It’s just amazing the type of music they have. And since they play off of CDs, the DJs pick the music. And it’s amazing to me how they pick the music to make the shows as good as they are.” Originally from New Orleans, Herzog donates to Third Coast and KSYM and calls in often to thank them. “It emphasizes Texas and Louisiana music and it’s the music
that you’re going to hear when you go to a bar or a club,” longtime supporter Lewis “Buzz” Buttles said. Buttles couldn’t pick a favorite DJ, saying, “They know the music that they’re playing; they know the bands. It’s not just somebody that also says, ‘Hey this is what you gotta play.’” Peirce, Third Coast DJ from 3-5 p.m. Mondays and Close Up the Honky-Tonks from 7-9 p.m. Thursdays, said KSYM’s motto is “We are your only alternative!” “You don’t hear too many other things like it in town,” Peirce said. “If you appreciate finding new music, then it’s the best place to listen, too.” “Third Coast is just a very small part of it, but what you can hear on KSYM is so unique,” Horn said. “There’s so much competition beyond terrestrial radio for anybody’s ears, particularly young people’s ears. So in that sense, value KSYM because these days it’s probably undervalued or totally taken for granted.” When asked if Horn could say anything to Third Coast’s supporters and fans, he said “Thanks for listening and mainly thanks for contributing.” Third Coast is on KSYM 90.1 FM 4-7 p.m. Monday and 3-6 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, visit KSYM.org or call 210-486-5796.
Feature
8 • Feb. 29, 2016
www.theranger.org/news
Basura Bash Austin Snell, San Antonio River Authority employee, finds a car bumper among the trash in the Six Mile Creek during the 22nd annual Basura Bash Feb. 20. Michelle Garza, San Antonio River Authority employee, picks up trash near the south end of the Six Mile Creek dam that blocks trash from getting into the San Antonio River. This was Garza’s first year volunteering at the Basura Bash. Garza, along with 13 other volunteers, helped rid the Six Mile Creek of more than 600 pounds of trash.
Lacey Simmons, South Texas Atheists for Reason member, removes trash from around the edge of a small pond. This was Simmons’ first time as a volunteer for the Basura Bash.
Watershed Warrior Noelani Cuvillos-Sanchez finds a large piece of plastic among the trash and properly disposes of it. The volunteers came across a variety of materials and were instructed to place them in the proper waste bags. There were bags designated for recycling and the volunteers carried large trash bags in hand. If they came across needles, the volunteers would have to place them inside a plastic bottle.
Michelle Garza, San Antonio River Authority Employee, helps load filled trash bags into a truck at the end of the cleaning shift. Garza volunteered at Six Mile Creek, just one of the 19 Basura Bash locations. Photos by Ryann Palacios
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with the institutes, Dr. Teanna Staggs, biology chair and chair of the district Chairs Council, said, echoing a dean’s remarks. “The proposed plan is to reduce the number of chairs from 19 to 12,” Staggs said. “Any current chair can apply to those 12 positions if they want to, while some may become program coordinators.” Along with this change, the proposed 12 chairs will move to 12-month contracts so the workload will be distributed evenly and they will be compensated fairly for work in the summer. “This change was necessary for the type of strategic work that they want us to do,” Staggs said. With these new positions, chairs are part of the administration, but will still be considered faculty. “Dr. (Robert) Vela wanted to assure us that chairs would still be faculty; he mentioned that it was a type of hybrid position, administration/faculty,” Staggs said. Going back to the updated chair description draft, chair responsibilities fall under five categories: Leadership, management and administration, personnel, promotion and tenure, and students. Each category includes bullet points with lengthy descriptions for each point. “In no way are the chairs required to teach … ” Staggs said. “ … But most chairs argue that teaching is essential to understand what’s going on in the classrooms.” It may be necessary for chairs to teach during peak times if needed. They will have an option to teach if they would like, but only after their normal workday or online. “You may have guessed that not all the chairs were pleased with the proposal; some were shocked at some of the changes,” Staggs said. The final proposal was scheduled to go out Thursday, with an updated job description of chairs following shortly.