DCP Newsletter (Dec, 2009) by Tiffin University

November/December 2009

T H I S

I S S U E

JULIE EVANS Degree Completion Alumni Spotlight

Julie Evans currently lives in Fremont, Ohio. She completed her Associate of Applied Science in Social Work at Terra Community College in 2006. She completed the Bachelor of Criminal Justice – Degree Completion Program at the Fremont Academic Center in December 2008. Julie maintained over a 3.9 grade point average through her time at Tiffin University.

What was your previous experience (education and professional) prior to completing your Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree? I had mostly worked in the fast food industry as a manager, working my way up to a district manager. When the company that I was working for sold out, I found myself with no real career goals and feeling very much at a loss for what to do. I decided that I would go back to school and my original goal was to only get my associate’s degree. I felt that if I could complete that then I would have met my personal goals and would stop there.

Founded in 1888, Tiffin University is proud to offer a personal and practical education for motivated, professionally focused students who want real-world experiences and results.

What sparked your interest in Tiffin University’s Degree Completion Program? I first became aware of the Degree Completion program while I was at Terra Community College, I started out at Terra with Chemical Dependency Counseling as my

I am currently working at the Sandusky County Juvenile Detention Center as a Juvenile Detention Officer.

(continued on page 2) D E G R E E

C O M P L E T I O N

P R O G R A M

JULIE EVANS

Degree Completion Alumni Spotlight

(continued from page 1)

goal. I had a couple of instructors that were Probation Officers and that sparked my interest in becoming a Probation Officer. At that time, I met with Sharon Perry-Nause. She was so kind and helpful. I was very impressed with Tiffin and what they had to offer. More of my credits would transfer and everyone that I talked to and worked with was so helpful and seemed to really care about my goals. I never felt like just a number to anyone at Tiffin.

What did you find most challenging about the Degree Completion Program? I think that for me some of the most challenging things about the program were that I am not a traditional student. I have grown children and during the program I had to go through the most trying time in my personal life. This was very hard for me and at this point I really wanted to quit. I did not think that I could go through school, while trying to work out this issue that had really blindsided me and was so emotional. I really thought that I would have to walk away at that point. My advisor, Jamie Marinis, was so kind through all of this and helped me with everything that I needed. The people in my cohort were also very kind and helpful. The instructors worked with me to help me get through this and to be able to stay in school.

Tell us about your current position. What does your job entail and how long have you held this position? I am currently working at the Sandusky County Juvenile Detention Center as a Juvenile Detention Officer. At the center, we work with the youth to try to get them to learn to think differently by helping them with groups and trying to teach new ways of behaving. I also do intakes, releases and whatever else comes up in the course of the day.

How has your coursework and degree benefited you in the criminal justice field? I was able to obtain a position with the Community Service department at Sandusky County and work under a grant for college students. This helped me to transfer over to the Detention Center. Having a degree in Criminal Justice helps to open many doors and was most helpful in being able to transition to the Detention Center.

What are you goals and aspirations for the future? I would like to work with youth in the capacity of a Probation Officer. I would like to be able to stay in Sandusky County, but am willing to transfer to another county to accomplish this goal. My degree will make it easier to make that transition. I also plan to pursue my Master of Science in Criminal Justice at Tiffin University in the near future.

What are your family interests/ hobbies? My family consists of two daughters, three granddaughters and I also have two grandsons on the way. We enjoy just being together, cooking meals, hanging out, and since there are so many girls, of course we like to shop.

Do you have any advice for potential and current Degree Completion students? Hang in there, I know that toward the end of the program it starts to seem like it will last forever and it feels like you will never get through it. You will and it will all be worth it. If you experience some problem or difficulty talk to your advisor and/or your instructors. They will help you and they do care about you making it through, but they cannot help if you do not tell them what you need. So, stay open-minded and ask for help when you need it. While this was a very trying time for me, I feel that it was all worth it. I really enjoyed my time at Tiffin University.

Spring / Summer 2010 Graduation Graduation is just around the corner! Congratulations to those of you who will be graduating in the spring and summer. In order to prepare for graduation, please be sure to fill out the graduation application – click here. Once you complete this application, you need to submit it to your advisor. In order to receive your diploma you must meet the following requirements: • All module and non-module courses (121 credit hours) completed. Any outstanding courses taken outside of Tiffin University require a final (official) transcript. • Overall GPA of 2.0, and a 2.5 in your core Degree Completion courses. • Completion of 13 hours of service learning and 13 hours of personal development co-curricular credit. • Completion of Exit Counseling on our Financial Aid webpage – click here. • A $0 balance on your student account. If you have any questions about these requirements, please see your advisor for more details. Graduation Ceremony DCP students that are eligible for Spring/Summer 2010 graduation are invited to take part in the May 1, 2010 Commencement Ceremony. Tiffin University holds one Commencement Ceremony each year in May. In order to participate, students can have no more than 3 non-module courses outstanding. You can still be in process with your DCP courses in order to participate in the Commencement Ceremony. This is a great experience and we encourage all of our graduating DCP students to take part in this experience. More information about the specifics will be mailed directly to you.

Graduation Honors All course work that a student has completed, at TU and any other college(s) that is used to meet specific TU degree requirements will be used in calculating graduation with honors. Distinction GPA Range Summa Cum Laude 3.90 – 4.00 Magna Cum Laude 3.70 – 3.89 Cum Laude 3.50 – 3.69 A student who has a 3.90 grade point average in Tiffin University classes, but transferred in mostly C’s and B’s from previous coursework, may have less than a 3.50 grade point average when grades for all transfer credits are included. The grades and credits transferred from another college are listed on the TU transcript. However, the cumulative grade point average on the TU transcript only reflects TU credit hours.

TIFFIN NEWS & Career Services Your one-stop shop for lifetime planning! Helping Students Achieve Professional EVENTS Excellence! The mission of the office is to provide guidance for Tiffin University • Tiffin University Rates High In Results From NSSE TU was one of 610 colleges and universities that took part in the 2007 National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE), and the recently released results demonstrate that TU is living up to its brand promise of “Real Connections, Real Results.” Read more...

• TU Professor Publishes Article on Fight Club in Author Chuck Palahniuk’s Collection Truffin’s article is titled, “This is What Passes For Free Will: Chuck Palahniuk’s Postmodern Gothic.” Read more...

• TU Professor Recognized in Military Journal For Leadership During NATO Exercise Assistant Professor Orr is featured in the military journal, “Three Swords,” published by the Stavanger, Norwaybased NATO training center. Read more...

• The Higher Learning Commission to Visit TU in March TU will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit March 22-24, 2010, by a team representing The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Read more...

students and alumni during their career development process by providing selfassessment, career exploration, and career preparation resources. Events • Individualized Career Counseling & Online Discover Assessment Program • Resume & Cover Letter Writing/Critique Programs • Interviewing Programs & Mock Interviews • Job Success Programs & Alumni Panel Sessions • Job Fairs (TU/BERG Job Fair and Collegiate EmployNet) • Graduate School Information & Catalogs • Networking Opportunities & Assistance 16 • Company / Organization Information & Resource Library • On-Campus Employer Recruiting Events • Business Etiquette Seminars • Professional Preview Day • Internship Opportunities • Employer Advisory Board • Professional Development Workshop Series • Career Portfolio Development • Online Resume Referral Database System

Students need to identify their skills and interests in order to prepare for a successful career. Tiffin University can provide students with the resources to achieve their goals. The Career Development Office, located in the Gillmor Student Center, serves as a support for students in designing their careers. To take advantage of the services offered, please contact the Director of Career Development & Internships at: (419) 448-3441 or e-mail at cmcdanne@tiffin.edu. Online Career Resource Tool – A Self Discovery Device The Discover Program, available on the Tiffin University Portal Page, is a very special instrument that can help you plan your career. This is one of the most advanced career guidance systems available. It combines the occupations, workrelated values, interests, skills, educational programs and more. Once you enter your own preferences, the program searches its built-in library and finds those careers that most closely match your preferences. You can examine your own work-related values and goals and decide what career to pursue. The program is designed to show students different strategies for obtaining certain careers as well as what employers look for in a given field. The program shows what students can do with a certain degree and what type of work they can expect to find. It is a web-based program that can be found on any Student, Faculty or Staff Account. Simply find the Discover Program online at: http://tunet.tiffin.edu/ics/

TY SHAULL Degree Completion Faculty Spotlight What is your educational background? I have a degree in Respiratory Therapy from Columbus State Community College, a Bachelor of Business Administration from Mount Vernon Nazarene University, and a Master of Business Administration from Tiffin University.

Tell us about your experience in the Business Administration field. I have been in healthcare administration for over 20 years. I have worked at various Columbus, OH hospitals, as well as hospitals in Circleville, OH and Portsmouth, OH. I am currently the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Wyandot Memorial Hospital in Upper Sandusky, and have been with Wyandot Memorial for 17 years. As COO I manage the operations of the hospital, including P&L program, service development and deployment, negotiating contracts, customer satisfaction, physician relations and access initiatives.

How long have you been teaching for Tiffin University?

I would emphasize

I have been teaching for Tiffin University since 2000.

What courses do you teach? Which do you enjoy teaching the most and why? I teach Managerial Research Design and Analysis, Organizational Theory and the Action Research Project. I really enjoy all of these courses. Interactions with the students, along with varying group dynamics, make each class unique. It is very rewarding and a great learning experience for me.

the importance of networking.

What are your interests and hobbies? I am married and have two teenage daughters. They keep me very active! I enjoy spending time with my family, playing tennis, being outdoors and remaining active in my church.

What advice do you have for students entering the field of Business Administration/Management? I would emphasize the importance of networking. The business environment is based on making strong connections and having “good people skills”. Being able to problem-solve is also very important. Today’s businesses need employees who can think outside the box.

GRADUATE PROGRAMS AT TU Tiffin University is proud to offer a growing number of graduate programs for working professionals. We know that you lead busy lives. That’s why we have created graduate degree programs that are flexible and affordable—and above all, practical. For more than a century, we have been delivering high-quality, professionally focused academic programs, giving our students the information they need to succeed in today’s competitive work place. We offer the following graduate degrees: • Master of Business Administration (MBA) • Master of Education (Med) • Master of Humanities (MH) • Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) As we have mentioned, we believe in flexibility and convenience. That’s why, depending on the graduate program you choose, you will have access to programs that meet exclusively on Saturdays, some that meet evenings or weekends, and still others that can be taken anytime online. To find out more about all of our graduate programs, go to our program locations map or visit graduate programs. Or learn more about how much it costs to pursue a graduate degree at Tiffin. The Graduate Programs at Tiffin Are Distinct The Faculty: Tiffin University faculty members are dedicated to scholarship and professional education and hold graduate degrees from some of the nation’s most distinguished colleges and universities. They have served in executive and mid-level management in various industries, corporations, federal law enforcement, intelligence, and military organizations. Accreditation: Academic programs at Tiffin University are authorized by the Ohio Board of Regents. Tiffin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. MBA degrees are accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs. Student Support: Tiffin’s Graduate Student Services Office can assist you with registration, advising, and other concerns. The Real World: Tiffin’s Career Development Office helps guide students and alumni as they enter the marketplace by providing self-assessment, career opportunities and exploration, and career preparation resources.

DIRECTOR SPOTLIGHT Tom Wynn worked as an Undergraduate Admissions Representative at Tiffin University from 1992 to 1994 and then as Assistant Dean of Students until 1996, before leaving to pursue a Master’s degree in Athletic Administration from South Dakota State University. Recently back with Tiffin University in the role of Director of Cincinnati Academic Center he enjoys working with adult students. Before returning to Tiffin, Tom worked as the Head Wrestling Coach and instructor at the College of Mount St. Joseph. “I can empathize with the students I serve in the DCP program; I am currently juggling work, family and school as I work on my MBA from Tiffin University. I try to encourage my students to stay persistent. Although this journey is difficult and sometimes challenging, the time devoted to ones education is everlasting” (T. Wynn, personal communication, November 8, 2009). Tom lives in Cincinnati, Ohio with his wife and (triplet) four year old boys. As a family, the Wynn’s enjoy outdoor activities and volunteering for community organizations.

REACCREDITATION VISIT SCHEDULED AT TIFFIN UNIVERSITY Tiffin University will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit March 22-24, 2010, by a team representing The Higher Learning Commission of The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Tiffin University has been accredited by the Commission since 1983. Its accreditation is at the Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree level and includes degree sites at various other locations within the state, internationally, as well as online programs. The public is invited to submit comments regarding the University to: Public Comment on Tiffin University The Higher Learning Commission 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400 Chicago, IL 60602 Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Written, signed comments must be received by February 15, 2010. The Commission cannot guarantee that comments received after the due date will be considered. Comments should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person providing the comments. Comments will not be treated as confidential. Note: Individuals with a specific dispute or grievance with an institution should request separate Policy on Complaints document from the Commission office. The Higher Learning Commission cannot settle disputes between institutions and individuals. Complaints will not be considered third party comment.

DCP ADMISSIONS/STUDENT SERVICES TEAM AMY WOOD

Director of Academic Centers (800) 968-6446, ext. 3372

JAMIE MARINIS

Director, Fremont Academic Center (419) 559-2245

woodar@tiffin.edu

marinisjl@tiffin.edu

JEREMY MARINIS

KRISTIN PAYNE

Executive Director of Undergraduate Admissions (800) 968-6446, ext. 3301 marinisjj@tiffin.edu

MARY ELLEN DENNY

Assistant Director, Online Degree Completion Student Services (800) 968-6446, ext. 3185 dennyme@tiffin.edu

NANCY GOLINSKI

Director, Northeast Ohio Academic Centers (800) 968-6446, ext. 3189 golinskin@tiffin.edu

DERRICK HANNAH

Interim Director, Columbus Academic Center (800) 968-6446, ext. 3448 hannahdj@tiffin.edu

DEB KAYA

Coordinator of Enrollment Services for Academic Centers (800) 968-6446, ext. 3191 kayad@tiffin.edu

JODY STRONG

Director, Toledo Academic Center (800) 968-6446, ext. 3172 payneka@tiffin.edu

ASHLEY RUNION

Financial Aid Counselor (800) 968-6446, ext. 3452 runiona@tiffin.edu

KATRINA SCHUMACKER

Online Admissions Representative (800) 968-6446, ext. 3587 schumackerkm@tiffin.edu

THOMAS WYNN

Director, Cincinnati Academic Center (513) 262-6790 wynnte@tiffin.edu

DCP Academic Staff NANCY SULLIVAN

Dean of Degree Completion Programs (800) 968-6446, ext. 3188

Coordinator of Enrollment Services for Online Programs (800) 968-6446, ext. 3592

sullivann@tiffin.edu

strongj@tiffin.edu

Administrative Assistant (800) 968-6446, ext. 3184

YAW MAMPHEY

Coordinator of Admissions Operations (800) 968-6446, ext.3374 mampheyyo@tiffin.edu

VICKI FRANTZ

frantzvl@tiffin.edu

PATTI SEEL

Program Assistant (800) 968-6446, ext. 3190 seelp@tiffin.edu