Good Friday – College Closed – April 14
March 31, 2017 | Uncategorized
It honor of Good Friday, East Central College will be closed on Friday, April 14.
Month: March 2017
#InspiringExcellence – ECC Instructor Honored for Service to Scholastic Journalism
Each year, the Missouri Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA) recognizes someone who has provided outstanding support to scholastic journalism with the Contributing Medium Award. East Central College is proud to announce the 2017 winner is English and Journalism Instructor Leigh Kolb!
In the nomination, MIPA vice-president Michelle Turner wrote: “Leigh Kolb has gone out of her way to assist MIPA and SchoolJournalism.org this school year. In the fall, when I approached her about MIPA’s desire to hold regional journalism workshops/summits, she was more than on board. She offered space, food and assistance with speakers.”
The inaugural journalism summit at East Central College was held in September 2016. It brought experts from the field to speak with students from ECC and Washington High School.
“My passions include not only talking about the importance of news and media literacy—and how becoming critical thinkers can transform our students’ lives—but also showing students that if they love examining the world around them and telling stories that matter, there are academic and career options they can and should pursue in the field of journalism and mass communications,” said Kolb.
One outlet for her passions has been SchoolJournalism.org, the go-to education site for students and teachers that provides hundreds of lesson plans and resources related to journalism, news literacy and civic education. Her recent article, New Year’s Resolution: Consume a Healthier News Diet, was well received by students and faculty alike across the country.
“She’s been an amazing friend of MIPA and SchoolJournalism.org,” said Turner. “Her generosity, kindness and willingness to network with us has greatly impressed me. She is someone who is more than deserving of this honor.”
“The power of journalism cannot be overstated,” said Kolb, “and young people who are interested in changing their world while using skills such as listening, research, critical analysis, writing, photography and film should consider going into journalism.”
Learn more about the mass media communications at East Central College!
#InspiringExcellence – Spring Writing Contest Winners Announced!
March 28, 2017 | Campus News
In February and March, we asked students if they had a knack for objective writing or making art with words. Dozens submitted their entries for the English Department’s Annual Poetry and Research Writing Contest.
“There was a lot of debate from our judges this year,” said English instructor Josh Stroup. “We were very impressed with the entries. It was hard to narrow it down to choose the winners!”
In the poetry category, Cory Pinta took first place with “Panic Pete.” Second place went to Israel Neely for “Not Inclusive,” and third place was given to Miranda Murray’s “Clair de Lune.” Honorable mention went to Cory Pinta and her piece “Self-Portrait Interrupted.”
“All these works will be in the newest edition of The Literary and Art Review,” said Stroup. “We expect to publish it in May along with other works from students.”
In the research category, Emily Dowell’s “The Globalization of English” took home first prize. Second place went to Moriah Swoboda and her paper “Avian Intelligence.” Third place was awarded to Israel Neely’s “The Black Female Protagonist.” Honorable mention went to Emily Dowell’s “No Struggle, No Problem.”
First prize winners were given $100! Second prize winners were given $50, and third prize winners received $25.
“This contest truly offered students an opportunity to participate without the anxiety of immediate appraisal of them or their work,” Stroup said. “We appreciate everyone who submitted something!”
East Central College Month of Service – Volunteers Needed!
March 27, 2017 | Campus News
East Central College is challenging our campus community to participate in at least one service project during the month of April. ECC has partnered with several local agencies and community groups to expand volunteer site offerings.
Franklin County Service Providers Family Fun Day
April 7, 4:00-8:00 p.m.
New Haven Elementary School Gym
201 Elton St, New Haven, MO 63068
Volunteers will provide event support for a fun evening out for local families. Agencies will be sponsoring a variety of fun family activities. Register Now!
Union High School’s “The Road Home” Homeless Awareness Event
April 21, 6:00-11:00 p.m.
Union High School Football Field
1 Wildcat Drive, Union, MO 63084
This project is meant to raise awareness about the grim reality individuals experiencing homelessness in a rural areas face. Volunteers are needed to assist with set-up, registration, supervise participants, sell raffle tickets, and manage on-site service projects. Register Now!
Grace’s Place Vintage Market
April 21 – 23
Corner of Main & Elm Washington, MO 63090
Grace’s Place Vintage Market is an annual fundraiser that directly benefits the agency and the children they care for at their emergency shelter. Volunteers are needed to assist with selling 50/50 raffle tickets, assisting vendors, helping customers with large purchases to their vehicles, and facilitating activities at the Kids Tent. Volunteer shifts of various lengths and time slots are available. Register Now!
Earth Day at East Central College
April 29, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Donald Shook Student Center
1964 Prairie Dell Rd. Union, MO 63084
Volunteer to assist with ECC’s annual community Earth Day event. Volunteers wishing to bring their children are encouraged to select this family friendly on-campus opportunity. Volunteers will assist with check-in, assisting vendors/groups with their booths and activities, and on-site service opportunities. Register Now!
All volunteers will receive a free t-shirt. If you have any questions, please contact the event coordinator, Shanee Haynes at shanee.haynes@eastcentral.edu. Volunteers must provide their own transportation.
Culinary Students Open “The Restaurant at Prairie Dell”
March 21, 2017 | Campus News
Gourmet food, excellence service and a small bill – that’s what you’ll get at The Restaurant at Prairie Dell. Managed by the East Central College Culinary Program, the limited-run restaurant gives students hands-on experience at running an establishment of their own.
“The Restaurant at Prairie Dell should prove to be a very valuable component we have been missing -management and practical experience,” said Culinary Arts Instructor Mike Palazzola.
Located at the East Central College Training Center on Prairie Dell Road in Union, advanced culinary students make up the management team. They are responsible for scheduling, production, job descriptions for staff and handling of revenue.
“First year students act as their staff, following guidance and remaining teachable,” Palazzola said. “The students will be able to use this as an opportunity to learn processes and standards that will be present in the hospitality industry in a learning environment, not when their job is on the line.”
Customers can start their meal with gourmet appetizer options and then jump into the soups and salads. If you are looking for a burger or sandwich, they have you covered. If you are looking for seafood pasta (with homemade noodles!) or steak, they have that too. The menu is diverse and affordable.
“We have something for everyone,” said Palazzola. “Plus, we’ll be changing up the menu on a regular basis.”
The current menu will run March 27 – April 13. Then, students will get the chance to try out their own concepts. From April 18 – 20, the menu will reflect “good, home-style cooking.” From April 25-27, the menu will reflect a modern take on traditional German cuisine. Then, from May 2-4, the menu will have some Cajun flair.
Most appetizers are $2.50 apiece. Sandwiches and entrees run about $6.00.
“Our prices only cover the cost of the food,” said Palazzola. “This is more about providing a unique experience for our students – helping them prepare for the real world.”
Seating starts at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday – Thursday and goes in 15 minute intervals until noon. To reserve your seat, email Michael.palazzola@eastcentral.edu. Cash or check is accepted.
#InspiringExcellence – Academic Advisor Honored with Statewide Award
Nearly two years ago, Steffani McCrary joined East Central College as an academic advisor. When she got here, she brought something from her secondary education background with her.
“I thought adding DECA would be a great addition to campus,” she said. “It benefits students in so many ways.”
Missouri DECA provides services to students enrolled in Marketing and Cooperative Education programs throughout the state. DECA’s comprehensive learning program integrates into classroom instruction, applies learning, connects to business and promotes competition. It prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management.
“DECA provides such amazing opportunities for students,” McCrary explained. “I have seen the impact it has made on students. Since the program starts in high school, I felt that a chapter at East Central College would give students an organization of familiarity to join when they got here.”
Her efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. This year, she was named one of just three “Friends of DECA” at the Missouri DECA State Career Development Conference. The special recognition is awarded to individuals for outstanding contributions to Marketing Education and/or Cooperative Career Education programs in their community.
“Steffani is extremely deserving of this award,” said Business and Industry Division Chair Richard Hudanick. “As an advisor, she is a role model. She is a tremendous help to our students and our programs.”
While McCrary is humbled by the award, she hopes it brings more awareness to the DECA program and how it can help students.
“DECA allows students to network with other students and business owners,” she said. “They can win scholarships to help pay for their education. There are many companies that prefer to hire a former DECA member over other applicants!”
The award carries the added recognition of becoming an Honorary Life Member of Missouri DECA.
Business and Industry Center Receives HVAC Donation
March 15, 2017 | Campus News
East Central College instructor David DeArmond never minds visitors in his HVAC lab, but he was particularly excited about a visit from Russ Bade on March 15.
“He reached out to us and asked if we needed equipment for students to train on,” DeArmond explained. “We said absolutely!”
Owner of Air Pro Heating and Cooling and member of the East Central College HVAC advisory board, Bade recently helped secure nearly $7,000 worth of equipment to the Business and Industry Center in collaboration with the Benoist Brothers Supply Company.
“They graciously donated a rooftop unit, furnace units and air conditioning units,” said Business and Industry Division Chair Richard Hudanick. “This will give our students a chance to learn about the type of equipment that is currently out there.”
“We want our students to be prepared for the workforce,” said DeArmond. “They need to be able to work on different types of brands and models. This donation helps us do just that.”
Opening in October 2016, the Business and Industry Center serves as the home of ECC’s precision machining, industrial engineering technology and HVAC programs. It is also equipped with lab and classroom space to accommodate short-term welding programs. The college’s Center for Workforce Development is also located in the facility.
Two Non-Public Schools Receive A+ Designation in ECC Service Area
March 14, 2017 | Campus News
The Missouri State Board of Education has moved forward with designating 57 non-public high schools A+ Schools this week, including Crosspoint Christian School and St. Francis Borgia Regional High School in East Central College’s service area.
The A+ Scholarship Program provides scholarship funds to eligible graduates of A+ designated high schools who attend a participating public community college, including ECC.
Learn more about the A+ Scholarship Program at East Central College!
“This is very good news for students and their families,” said Dr. Jon Bauer, president of East Central College. “We welcome them into this highly successful program. Nearly 500 students utilize A+ funding to cover their tuition and general fees each year at ECC, and we are happy to add even more.”
In August 2016, Senate Bill 638 was signed into law. The legislation allowed any nonpublic Missouri high school to apply to the State Board of Education to be certified as an A+ School, if that school met the same requirements that apply to public high schools. A+ does not cover any additional costs associated with classes, such as lab fees and books.
To be eligible for A+ assistance high school students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents; enter into a written agreement with their high school prior to graduation; attend a designated A+ high school for three consecutive years immediately prior to graduation; and graduate with an overall grade point average of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. They must also have at least a 95 percent attendance record overall for grades 9-12; perform at least 50 hours of unpaid tutoring or mentoring, of which up to 25 percent may include job shadowing; maintain a record of good citizenship and avoid the unlawful use of drugs and/or alcohol. Students must also achieve a score of proficient or advanced on the Algebra I end of course exam, or a higher level end-of-course exam in the field of mathematics approved by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Closing the Skills Gap in Health Information Management
March 14, 2017 | Campus News
When Michael Klemme left the military, he knew what he wanted. However, he wasn’t sure how to make it happen.
“I wanted to be able to get a job and work anywhere in the world,” he said.
His first step was enrolling at East Central College. That’s where he discovered the Health Information Management (HIM) degree.
The ECC HIM program trains students to fill a pivotal role within the medical environment – connecting clinical, operational and administrative functions. Skilled HIM professionals ensure an organization has the right information on hand when and where it is needed.
“The training, instruction and support that was provided to me by the entire staff and faculty at ECC was outstanding,” he said.
After graduation, Michael fulfilled his goal. He was selected out of a field of a dozen candidates to fill a medical health record administrator position in Guam. “Everyone at East Central College made this dream possible for me,” he said, “and I am forever grateful.”
“Michael’s story is not uncommon,” said ECC HIM Instructor Nanette Sayles. “It’s not one of those careers that people grow up planning to be like a nurse or a fireman, but when they do discover it, they see its value.”
According to the National Skills Coalition, middle-skill jobs like HIM, which require education beyond high school but not a four-year degree, make up the largest part of America’s labor market.
“This program has been a catalyst for change in so many lives,” said Program Director Stephanie Buchholz. “Graduates are able to leave minimum wage positions. Their HIM degree is often the first step to personal and professional achievement for a lot of students.”
“I’ve been in HIM education since 1998,” Sayles added. “In that time, I’ve seen single parents be able to support their families – some don’t even have to leave their homes to do it. It is a career that offers flexibility.”
The demand for an HIM degree isn’t going away, especially as medical records continue to move into the digital space. According to the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the job outlook for Health Information Management graduates is expected to increase 10 percent by 2024!
Gateway Medical Solutions in Sullivan knows the demand well. They rely on East Central College to fill key positions. The medical billing company hired their first ECC graduate in 2014 and has hired several since.
“If anyone is looking to change careers,” said Chief Financial Officer Scott Schwader, “I think ECC provides a great opportunity to get into a growing industry. In fact, Gateway Medical Solutions has grown each and every year. We now provide billing services for more than 100 physicians in 18 different states!”
Schwader says it can be a challenge finding enough skilled workers for his business, and a degree in HIM can give an applicant a real advantage.
“We like to hire people who have Health Information Management degrees. They are well-rounded and ready for the workforce,” he explained. “We pay them more because they have more knowledge of healthcare systems, and they are often better coders.”
While The East Central College Associate of Applied Science degree in Health Information Management is designed for students seeking employment immediately upon graduation, many of the credits may qualify as transfer credit at four-year schools!
East Central College has an Articulation Agreement with Stephens College, offering a pathway for ECC HIM graduates to earn their B.S. in Health Information Administration. Also, ECC has an Articulation Agreement with Maryville University, offering a pathway for ECC HIM graduates to earn their B.S. in Healthcare Practice Management.
The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) will honor and celebrate health information professionals during the 28th annual Health Information Professionals (HIP) Week March 26–April 1, 2017.
Summer Courses Available at East Central College
March 13, 2017 | Campus News
Spring is here, and it’s a great time to start thinking about the summer. East Central College has the courses students need to catch up or get ahead! Summer classes begin on Monday, June 5, with options from English to Math to Chemistry!
When students take 30 credit hours a year, including summer semester courses, they graduate or transfer on time. It saves students money and launches them to the next step in their lives sooner. Enrolling in a summer semester course at East Central College doesn’t have to hinder fun and relaxation! In 2016, more than half of all summer students took classes online. They were able to get the classes they needed without having to leave the pool!
By signing up for a summer course now instead of waiting until May, students will have time to get their classes scheduled, purchase their books and still plan for vacation and other summer activities.
“This is also the right time for students who are coming home from other colleges for the summer to pick up a couple of classes,” said Shelli Allen, vice president of student development. “If they talk with advisors at the institution they currently attend, summer is perfect for picking up some low-cost credits that they can transfer back.”
Additionally, East Central College holds a Summer Scholars program for area high school students. Rising high school juniors (class of 2019) and seniors (class of 2018) can take summer semester classes at a reduced rate per credit hour! Find out more about Summer Scholars.
Open enrollment for summer and fall 2017 classes opens March 20.