Month: May 2019


Students Explore Love for Music at East Central College


May 21, 2019 | Campus News

Growing up, her dad played the trumpet. Later in life, New Haven-native Mallory Kampschroeder decided to take it up herself.

“I love being able to express myself through music,” she explained, “and being able to connect with others through a common interest.”

Classical music is her specialty, but there’s another type of music she’s quite fond of.

“I love playing waltzes,” she said, “as well as fast and exciting pieces. I love playing anything that challenges me and pushes me to be a better musician.”

After graduating from Washington High School, she chose to go to East Central College.

“I knew it was affordable,” she said. “I had already been exposed to the many music events and festivals at the college, and I had met many of the teachers there.”

Kampschroeder plans to transfer to a four-year university next year to study music education.

It’s a path Bernadette Comage plans to take as well. The St. Francis Borgia Regional High School alumna plays the piano.

“I initially started playing the piano because of my older sister,” she explained. “She played a little, and I wanted to be like her! I stuck with it because it was challenging, and I liked that.”

About four years ago, she started taking lessons with East Central College Music Professor Dr. Jennifer Judd.

“I decided to attend ECC because of her,” she said. “She’s such a wonderful teacher! When I realized there was an opportunity to continue learning with her at the collegiate level, I took it.”

For Comage, music is more than just a subject to study.

“I love how it makes me feel when I’m playing it or listening to it,” she said. “Nothing else gives me the same euphoric experience.”

She’s now passing on her love for music onto the next generation at the Washington Academy of Music, where she teaches piano lessons to younger students.


President’s List Announced for Spring 2019 Semester


May 17, 2019 | Campus News

Each semester, East Central College recognizes students who have demonstrated exemplary academic achievement.

Upon completion of at least 12 Spring Semester credit hours with a semester grade point average of 3.85 or greater, students are acknowledged on the President’s List. More than 100 students made the list for the Spring 2019 semester!

President's List Spring 2019


Vice President’s List Announced for Spring 2019 Semester


May 16, 2019 | Campus News

Each semester, East Central College recognizes students who have demonstrated superior academic achievement.

Upon completion of at least 12 semester credit hours with a semester grade point between 3.50 and 3.84, students are acknowledged by placement on the Vice President’s List. For the Spring 2019 semester, there were more than 150 students on the list!

Vice President's List Spring 2019


Adult Education and Literacy Program Awarded National Grant


May 15, 2019 | Campus News

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation has awarded the East Central College Foundation, working on behalf of the ECC Adult Education and Literacy Program, a $10,000 grant to support its mission in 2019. This local grant award is part of more than $8.3 million in grants awarded to nearly 1,000 schools, nonprofits and organizations across the country.

“Literacy is a problem that very much exists in the East Central College service area,” said AEL Director Alice Whalen. “There are more than 20,000 adults in Franklin, Gasconade, Phelps and Warren Counties without a high school diploma or High School Equivalency (HSE) Certificate.”

The AEL Program will use the grant to support the adult education program and the volunteers who assist students in the classroom.  Currently, AEL classes are held in Rolla, Sullivan, Union and Washington during the day. Night classes are held Cuba, Hermann, Montgomery City, Owensville, Pacific, Rolla, St. Clair, St. James, Sullivan, Union and Washington. Additional English Language classes are held in Rolla, Union and Washington.

“Our dedicated staff members and volunteers work tirelessly to help improve a student’s skills in math, reading, writing, social studies and science,” added Whalen. “All classes, books and materials are provided free for students. We aim to create personalized experiences for our students – addressing their specific needs and helping them achieve their personal goals.”

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation supports initiatives that help others improve their lives through literacy and education. Since its inception in 1993, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation has awarded more than $168 million in grants to nonprofit organizations, helping more than 10 million individuals take their first steps toward literacy or continued education.

Find out more about the AEL program at www.eastcentral.edu/ael or by calling call 636-584-6533.


Joshua German Named 2019 Outstanding Student


May 11, 2019 | Campus News Inspiring Excellence

Sullivan native Joshua German had been named the 2019 Outstanding Student Award Winner. The award is the highest honor given to a graduate of ECC. To be considered for the honor, an ECC student must have maintained a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. In addition to academic achievements, participation in campus and community activities is also considered.

German is an exceptional student leader who has made remarkable contributions to East Central College. In the 2018-2019 academic year, Josh served as President of Phi Theta Kappa-Chi Delta, Chief Recording Officer of the Student Government Association, the Co-Founder and former Vice President of Scholar Bowl and has maintained membership status in other student organizations including Rotaract and ECC Student Media.

“The level of tenacity Josh displays in all his work is incredibly inspiring,” said Campus Life and Leadership Coordinator Courtney Henrichsen. “While managing his extensive co-curricular involvement, he has continued to earn outstanding grades in his courses and has received the President’s List academic honor for the past three consecutive semesters.  He is truly the embodiment of our organizational values and aspirations.”

“When Josh is sitting in your classroom, you can expect great discussion and his trademark dry humor,” said Assistant Professor Leigh Kolb. “It has been such a joy to know Josh, and to be able to encounter him on his journey. How lucky we have been to have him on our campus, and how proud we will be to call him an ECC alum.”

German has also made contributions to the college above and beyond other student leaders by participating in strategic planning activities and assisting our Civic and Community Engagement Committee. He helped organize and lead more events and fundraisers than any other student in ECC’s recent history. He also led the efforts to organize a student trip to Montgomery, Alabama in order to give his fellow students the opportunity to visit the new Legacy Museum and Memorial for Peace and Justice.

“When Josh approached me about organizing the trip,” said Kolb, “I was overwhelmed with excitement. Not only was he personally inspired by readings in African American Literature the prior spring, but he wanted to create the opportunity for other students to experience history. Josh embodies what it means to take an education and not only make the most of it for himself, but also to share it with others.”

German plans to transfer to Truman State University, where he will work toward a bachelor’s degree in English. He hopes to continue his education at the graduate level and eventually become a college professor.


Dorothy Schowe Named 2019 Outstanding Alumni


May 11, 2019 | Campus News Inspiring Excellence

Dorothy Schowe started as a temporary secretary in the East Central College Community Relations Department in 1980. She retired in 2016 as the Director of Public Relations. She’s hardworking, dedicated and thoughtful, and it’s one of many reasons Dorothy Schowe was chosen as the East Central College 2019 Outstanding Alumni! The award, presented annually to honor an ECC graduate who has used their education to benefit the community, doesn’t come as a surprise to those that know her well.

“Throughout her career at East Central College she has been a true ambassador for the College,” said Bonnie Gardner, executive assistant to the president. “If there was an event on campus, Dot was not only promoting it, she was intimately involved in ensuring the event’s success. Her love for ECC was very evident in everything she did.”

For the past 39 years she has been involved with the Missouri State High School Activities Association’s District Music Festival held at East Central College. As a supporter of the East Central College Foundation, Schowe established an endowed scholarship in memory of her parents, Helen and Jack Luecke. Schowe is a past member of the Franklin County Area United Way board of directors and continues to volunteer her time with the organization through its Power of the Purse and Door-to-Door drives. In 2016, she was honored with the United Way’s Red Feather award. It is presented annually to an individual, company or organization that best imparts the qualities of integrity, community spirit and courage. She is also currently a member of the Franklin County Community Resource Board and serves on the Scenic Regional Library Foundation Board. She was treasurer of the New Haven Elementary School PTO, secretary for the New Haven Music Boosters, and a Shamrock Athletic Booster Club member. She was also on the New Haven School Board, serving as treasurer and  president.

A 1975 graduate of New Haven High School, Schowe began her college education at then East Central Junior College. After graduating with an Associate of Arts degree in 1977, Schowe transferred to Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg. She served as editor of the college yearbook her senior year and obtained her bachelor’s degree in public relations from CMSU  (now the University of Central Missouri) in 1979. Schowe and her husband, Don, have two children and two grandchildren.

The East Central College Alumni Association established the award in  2002 to recognize outstanding alumni who have set an example for ECC graduates by using their college education and serving their community. Past recipients include: Tanya Voss, John  Griesheimer, Tom Robertson, Chris Manhart, Deborah Koelling, Tammy Watz, Dr. Frank Miller, Ken Schmidt, Chris Stuckenschneider, Ann Schroeder, Ted Coburn, Linda Mahon, Joe Purschke, Amy Wildhaber, Tony Kreutz, Dave Arand, Audrey Freitag and Ron Unnerstall.


Help Support the Arts at East Central College


May 9, 2019 | Campus News Performing Arts

Each year, the East Central College Foundation’s Patrons of the Arts dedicates itself to providing much needed support for the local arts scene.

“Our fine and performing arts programs and performances have become a cultural centerpiece for the community,” said Dr. Jon Bauer, president of East Central College. “Because of the generous support from the community, we are able to bring local and world-renowned artists and musicians to campus. It’s all made possible with the help of the Patrons of the Arts.”

A Patrons of the Arts membership not only supports East Central College performances and art exhibitions but also benefits patrons. Memberships include season tickets to events on campus, as well as recognition in Patrons of the Arts promotional materials.

The East Central College Foundation Patrons of the Arts will hold its annual kickoff event for members at the John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center on June 13 from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. The member-only event will feature a social hour and heavy hors d’oeuvres followed by entertainment.

Memberships for the 2019-2020 season are now available. For more information visit the East Central College Foundation website.


East Central College Piloting Free Textbook Initiative for 2019-2020 School Year


May 9, 2019 | Campus News

According to the College Board, community college students spend an average of $1,400 on books and supplies each year. Many students have to use financial aid money or pay out of pocket to cover the costs.

East Central College is launching a new initiative this summer to help lower textbook costs for students. By utilizing open educational resources (OER), students will potentially save hundreds of dollars each semester.

“Open educational resources are teaching, learning and research materials that are either copyright-free or have a license that allows for reuse,” said Robyn Walter, interim vice president of academic affairs. “Students will get the same quality information at little or no cost.”

It’s an idea the East Central College English Department has already embraced. Instructor John Hardecke received training on OER materials through MOBIUS, the collaborative partnership of libraries that provides access to shared information resources in Missouri. He has been the “go-to” person for any East Central College faculty member interested in exploring OER materials.

“Before we started using OER materials in the English Department, students were paying about $140 for a required textbook,” Hardecke explained. “Now, we’re using one that only costs $34. Additionally, we had a required handbook that cost another $130, and now it’s free. It makes a real difference for our students.”

Hardecke says the English Department alone has lowered textbook costs by nearly 70 percent for their students, according to sales at the East Central College Bookstore.

“This is a pilot program,” said Walter. “We are starting small, but we really hope to expand moving forward. According to a recent national survey, nearly 65 percent of students report not purchasing a textbook because of its high price. We want to break down that barrier.”

Five courses will take advantage of OER materials during the Summer 2019 semester. Two more will be added for the Fall 2019 semester. Check out the list!

Previously, an East Central College student taking general psychology, public speaking, general biology, college algebra and English composition would pay roughly $900 for books. Under the new OER initiative, the same student will only have $100 in book costs – a difference of $800!

Besides cost, there are many advantages to open educational resources, also known as open-sourced books.

“Rather than relying on one book that might have older references or examples, our faculty will have the flexibility to find newer content for their students for free. This will also allow faculty to utilize several textbooks at once, choosing chapters they feel are the most relevant to their curriculum,” said Walter.

The free or low cost material will be uploaded to the student learning platform, Moodle, for easy access. The East Central College library will also develop a resource page for all the materials.

“Each OER is developed through a rigorous production and peer review process that mirrors traditional textbook methods,” noted Walter. “Our faculty will still continue to use their same departmental processes for selecting appropriate learning materials for our students.”

While internet access is required to access the materials initially, they can also be downloaded to a device for offline access. For students who want a physical copy, the materials can also be easily printed at a low cost.


2019 Commencement Information


May 7, 2019 | Campus News

Commencement is right around the corner! We are so excited to celebrate your big day with you and your families. Below is some important information about this year’s ceremony.

When is it?

The 2019 commencement ceremony will take place Saturday, May 11th, 2019, at 11:30 a.m. in the Donald D. Shook Student Center, located on the Union campus. Rehearsal for commencement will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 10. The rehearsal is not mandatory, but it’s a good idea to show up!

What should I wear?

When you are putting on your cap and gown, remember that tassels are to be worn on the right side of the cap. Please wear a white or light colored dress shirt and tie. Although some consider the tie optional, the shirt collar and tie are visible at the throat of the gown. The gown is black and therefore dark dress slacks or a skirt that does not show below the gown’s hemline look best. Do not wear a boutonniere on your gown.

Can you decorate your cap? Of course! We only ask for the design to be respectful and tasteful.

Ceremony rules (Yes, there are rules)

Looking your best and conducting yourself in a manner appropriate to the decorum of this time-honored ceremony are ways you can show pride in your accomplishment. Please leave the beach balls, confetti, and silly string at home. Even if you may not personally care about preserving the dignity and decorum of the commencement ceremony, please do not spoil it for those who are proud of their accomplishment. It also can create a trip hazard. No one wants to trip.

Guest information

Seating is on a first-come basis. Doors open at 10:30am. Seating on the floor will be initially reserved for guests needing special physical accommodations or wheel chair accessible arrangements.   Commencement guests are requested to remain in their seats during the entire ceremony, which lasts approximately 80 minutes. Overflow seating will be available in the cafeteria. The seating in the cafeteria also provides guests with space to move around if needed.

A reception will be held in the cafeteria at the conclusion of the ceremony.

Facilities will run several golf carts around the parking lots to pick up any guests who may need a lift to the building entrance. Wheelchairs will be available to transport guests to and from the parking lot if needed. There will be personnel available to assist with wheel chairs just inside the doors of Loading Dock 1 in front of the entrance to the Bookstore in the Donald Shook Student Center (DSSC). Elevator access is available from any level of the DSSC.

Professional photos will be taken at the ceremony and will be available for purchase through Grad Images.

Other questions? Check out the graduation page.


East Central College NEA Honors Inspiring Local Teachers


May 7, 2019 | Campus News

Educators have a profound effect on students in many capacities. The East Central College chapter of the National Education Association (NEA) is honoring those educators with the 2019 Inspirers of Excellence Award.

“This award is about teachers who are making an impact on a student’s life,” said ECC-NEA President Sue Henderson. “We want to celebrate their positive influence and dedication.”

Students were asked to nominate former teachers in March. This year, more than 35 recipients were selected!

2019 “Inspirers of Excellence” Award Recipients:

  • Debbie Aholt, Washington High School
  • Angie Anderson, Rolla High School
  • Jesse Anderson, Washington High School
  • Jean Baker, Owensville High School
  • Nathan Caldwell, St. Francis Borgia
  • Stephen Culp, Sullivan High School
  • Donald Lukus Dement , St. Clair High School
  • Todd Dempsey, St. Francis Borgia
  • Mandy Franke, Liberty High School – Wentzville
  • Sandy Fuchs, Sullivan High School
  • Katie Galvin, Sullivan High School
  • Amy Hall, Union High School
  • Catherine Hartman, Pacific High School
  • Donna Hinson, Owensville High School
  • Terrie Hunter, Warrenton High School
  • Chelsea Johnson, Dixon High School
  • Diane Kennel-Truelove, Traverse City West
  • Tina Kluesner, Union High School
  • Melissa Krimmel, St. Clair High School
  • Nicole Kuske, Union High School
  • Trish Lewis, Bourbon High School
  • Tammy Lueck    Rolla High School
  • Amber  Moore  Nichols Career Center
  • Danika Novak, Union High School
  • Ryan Okenfuss, Owensville High School
  • Caryn Patterson, Pacific High School
  • Kim Ray, Cuba High School
  • Erika Robertson, St. Clair High School
  • Sarah Rochleau, Sullivan High School
  • Zach Rogers,  John F. Hodge High School
  • Carmen Ruszala, St. Clair High School
  • Ben Sachs, Hermann High School
  • David Schatz, Salem Senior High School
  • Jennifer Schwenkter, Union High School
  • Paige Steinhoff, Parkway High School
  • Terri Story, John F. Hodge High School
  • Taylor Tholen, Union High School
  • Michelle Turner, Washington High School
  • Sherri White, Owensville High School
  • Nova Wright, Clearview Homeschool
  • Sara Young, Sullivan Middle School