Author: gjones


Adjuncts Recognized at Inaugural Appreciation Dinner


April 16, 2024 | Campus News

Adjunct Mathematics Adjunct Connie Lutz was recognized for her exceptional contributions to East Central College with the inaugural Adjunct of the Year award.

The award was presented at the first Adjunct Appreciation Dinner on April 9. Lutz was honored alongside other adjuncts honored with special recognitions and for years of service. Lutz’ award was presented by Dr. Robyn Walter, Vice President of Academic Affairs.

“Tonight, we honor an exceptional educator, one whose dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the field of mathematics education has positively impacted our college and the countless lives of students she has touched,” Walter said.

She added that Lutz, “Embodies the epitome of meeting students where they are – offering genuine care and support of her students, engaging in the classroom, and literally transforming the way students learn math.”

Lutz, who also was recognized for 35 years of service as an adjunct faculty member, recently developed a vibrant math course for the Fine and Performing Arts to meet a broader set of students – again meeting them where they are. In 2018, Lutz was awarded the Outstanding Adjunct Faculty from the Missouri Community College Association.

More Outstanding Adjuncts

There were eight other adjuncts who received Outstanding Adjunct Awards in each department: Meg Vogel, Education; Shawna Flanigan, English & Humanities; Jeffrey Jaquess, Science and Engineering; Ted Coburn, Criminal Justice; Gary Powers, Art & Design; Michael Askins, Computer Information Systems; Elisha Chaney, Nursing; and Ben Martin, dual credit science instructor at St. Clair High School.

Below are comments about each departmental Outstanding Adjunct Award recipients. They were presented awards by the dean or director of their division.

Meg Vogel: “(She) is always student-focused and has always been willing to attempt teaching modalities beyond what she is accustomed to. Mrs. Vogel defines her class with real-world examples and inclusivity. She strives to make sure students connect the content in her classes to their future classrooms.”

Shawna Flanigan: “(She) brings students comfort because of her focus on building connections and her positive, humble, and curious attitude. Shawna’s detailed explanations for why content, assignments, and activities are covered, along with her willingness to encourage or check in outside of class, helps students to stay motivated, as her evaluations reflect.”

 

Jeffrey Jaquess: “He is one of our most reliable faculty members, who goes above and beyond to serve our students well. Jeff is known to teach labs with his materials when he deems them more appropriate for instruction. He consistently provides his students with valuable supplemental education by planning and executing field trips for them every year.”

Ted Coburn: “(He) has a passion for teaching students here at ECC. He is consistently student-focused and strives to help students learn and understand course material. He works to build relationships with his students. He is often asked for recommendations from current and former students. Even after students graduate, they often stay in touch with Mr. Coburn.”

Gary Powers: “(He) has helped jury several end-of-year student art exhibitions, participated in every Faculty Art show, and even gave of his time for our High School Art Day event. Even as a two-day-a-week adjunct, he never misses an opportunity to study, critique, and compliment the student works in the hall and the instructors whose class it is.”

Michael Askins: “His incorporation of real-world insights, case studies, and personal guidance enriches the learning experience… He will even call his students offering support when the normal channels of retention seem ineffective.”

Elisha Chaney: “She holds the students to high standards as a full-time faculty member does but is also willing to sit down and spend time with the student if they don’t understand paperwork or how to handle patient stations… Elisha goes above and beyond for students. She is an amazing clinical and classroom educator. She challenges the students while also supporting them as they grow.”

Ben Martin: “He gets to know his students on a personal level, and he actually seeks out books based on that information to give to them to encourage them to read more. Ben’s students are highly engaged in the classroom, especially in the area of eye-rolling after one of his famous daily dad jokes.”

Years of Service Recognitions:

Listed below are adjuncts who reached milestones and were recognized for years of service:

5 Years: Kelly Adkins, Melissa Albright, Janet Berry, Taylor Bodenschatz, Tim Bruckerhoff, Steven Campbell, Elisha Chaney, Sarah Dierker, Brooke Durbin, Madison Emerick, Karen Fixsal, Shawna Flanigan, Patrick Fogarty, Jeffrey Frankenberg, Dan Jacobson, Christopher Karr, Daniel Kemper, Amber Moore, Mark Palmier, Michael Pelster, Heather Sluis, Marietta Stiebler, Daniel Strohmeyer, Margaret Vogel, and Timothy Willard.

10 Years: Tiffanie Atherton, Molly Bene, Melissa Mauchenheimer, Raymond Mowery, Margret Noud, Danika Novak, Robert Schulze, and Kenneth Williardson.

15 Years: Curtis Beers, Lisa Blackmore, Shana Collier, Gary Powers, Robert Robinson, and Matthew Sokeland.

20 Years: Tim Buchheit.

25 Years: Robert Prichard.

35 Years: Connie Lutz.


ECC joins Achieving the Dream Network to Advance Student Success


April 16, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College has joined Achieving the Dream (ATD), a national leading higher education reform network of more than 300 community colleges across the country.

As one of eight institutions joining the organization as part of its 2024 cohort, ECC will enter ATD’s Foundations of Transformation core engagement, an intensive three-year program. College leaders will collaborate with ATD’s expert coaches to develop essential capacities for student success. These capacities will focus on data analysis, teaching and learning, leadership, community partnerships, student support, and more.

“Joining the Achieving the Dream marks a pivotal moment for ECC’s commitment to student success. We aim to provide students with strengthened individualized attention they deserve,” said Dr. Jon Bauer, ECC President.

“Additionally, ECC’s partnership with Achieving the Dream will empower us to address the unique challenges faced by our low-income and rural student populations; ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.”

ECC, along with fellow cohort colleges and six other institutions new to the ATD Network, will convene at ATD’s Kickoff Institute, an annual event to welcome incoming Network colleges, which will be held this year from June 12-14 in New Orleans.

During the Kickoff Institute, colleges will establish partnerships with ATD and become acquainted with the organization’s Institutional Capacity Framework. This framework offers a comprehensive assessment designed to cultivate a student-centered culture and enhance student success.

ECC secured the funding to join ATD through a federal Title III grant, awarded through the Strengthening Institutions Program administered by the U.S. Department of Education.

ATD is a partner and champion of more than 300 community colleges across the country. Drawing on expert coaches, groundbreaking programs, and national peer network, the organization provides institutions with integrated, tailored support for every aspect of their work — from foundational capacities such as leadership and data to intentional strategies for supporting students holistically, building K–12 partnerships, and more.

ATD calls this Whole College Transformation. Its vision is for every college to be a catalyst for economically vibrant communities. ATD knows that with the right partner and the right approach, colleges can drive access, completion rates, and employment outcomes — so that all students can access life-changing learning that propels them into community-changing careers. To learn more, visit the Achieving the Dream website: www.achievingthedream.org.


Hardy, Freitag Sworn in as ECC Trustees


April 15, 2024 | Campus News

When JT Hardy and Audry Freitag were sworn in as East Central College Trustees, it was the first time since 2018 that the makeup of the board changed.

Hardy, who ran unopposed in Subdistrict 1, replaced Prudence Fink Johnson, who did not seek re-election after serving as a trustee for 30 years. Freitag, also unopposed, was elected to her third term on the board. However, she is now representing Subdistrict 2, due to a subdistrict realignment. The district lines were changed in fall 2022 to better align with the population of the College’s taxing district.

Freitag’s subdistrict includes portions of central and western Franklin County, including Union and New Haven school districts. Hardy represents St. Clair and Sullivan school districts, and the parts of Crawford and Washington counties within the ECC Taxing District.

The ECC board consists of six trustees, two each from three sub-districts of the college district. Though trustees are elected at large, a board member must be a resident of the sub-district he or she represents.

Johnson was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 1994. A reception was held in her honor prior to the April 11 Board meeting, her final meeting as a Trustee. Johnson was presented with a resolution recognizing her 30 years of dedication to the College.

Following the swearing in of Hardy and Freitag, the Trustees re-elected board officers.

Board Officers

Ann Hartley will continue to serve as board president, and Dr. Joe Stroetker will continue to serve as vice president. Dr. Eric Park remains the board treasurer, while Ina “Cookie” Hays was re-elected as the board secretary. Hardy and Freitag will serve as directors. Board officers are elected to two-year terms.

Bonnie Gardner, executive assistant to the president, was re-appointed recording secretary through June 30. Stacey Langan was appointed to serve as recording secretary beginning July 1, following Gardner’s retirement.

The Board of Trustees is the sole statutory legislative governing body responsible for the control and operation of ECC. Monthly meetings are normally held on the first Monday of the month on campus. Learn more about the Board of Trustees.


Hodges Badge Partners with College’s CWD for Leadership Apprenticeship Program


April 4, 2024 | Campus News

More than 20 employees at Hodges Badge Company recently completed a Front-Line Leader apprenticeship program, equipping them with increased confidence and contributing to the development of a more skilled and forward-thinking workforce.

That’s according to Rick Hodges, President of Hodges Badge Company, who credited a partnership between East Central College’s Center for Workforce Development (CWD), Missouri Apprenticeships in Manufacturing Program (MoAMP) in collaboration with the state and his Washington-based manufacturer of custom awards.

The Front-Line Leader apprenticeship program is a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Registered Apprenticeship program tailored to the employees at Hodges Badge. The ECC CWD’s role was to ensure the seamless execution of the program, providing invaluable support and guidance throughout the process.

Employees who engaged in the year-long apprenticeship have displayed notable enhancements in their abilities, leading to a workforce that is better prepared to tackle challenges and seek out process improvements, Hodges explained.

Soft skills development has been particularly remarkable. Apprentices have demonstrated a keen willingness to share ideas and knowledge for the collective benefit of their colleagues and the company.

“Employees completing the apprenticeship program are more adept at communicating effectively, including navigating difficult conversations with ease,” Hodges commented. “They are better equipped to handle tough personnel issues, leading to increased trust and respect among peers.”

As the second round of apprenticeships concludes successfully, Hodges Badge Company looks ahead to further advancements and achievements from its workforce, buoyed by the ongoing support from East Central College and the State of Missouri.

“We are thrilled with the outcomes of the apprenticeship program and the dedication shown by our employees,” added Hodges. “Their enthusiasm for continued learning and improvement bodes well for the future of Hodges Badge Company.”

For over a century, Hodges Badge has been a premier manufacturer of custom awards, including ribbons, rosettes, medals, and badges, serving customers nationwide. Learn more about the company and its commitment to employee development, visit the company’s website or contact them directly.

To learn more about registered apprenticeships through ECC’s CWD, visit the Registered Apprenticeships page or call 636-649-5800.


Seven Students Visit London in Return of Spring Break Trip


March 27, 2024 | Campus News

Seven students from East Central College embarked on an enriching Arts and Humanities Spring Break experience in London, England.

Led by ECC Associate Professor of English, Leigh Kolb, and ECC Title III Program Coordinator, Carson Mowery, the group delved into a nine-day exploration of London’s cultural landmarks and artistic treasures. The group left for the trip on March 6 and returned March 15.

The students who went on the trip are: Sabren Mastin, Lauren Hoey, Max Johnson, Hallelujah Medlock, Nicole Pope, Elijah Long, and Shayne Harrington.

During their time abroad, the students visited iconic attractions such as Westminster Abbey, the British Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, Tate Modern and Tate Britain galleries, the British Library, and the historic Tower of London.

They also had the opportunity to witness a production of “The Picture of Dorian Gray” in London’s esteemed West End theater district.

The students and their advisors ventured beyond the city limits to explore the picturesque landscapes of Canterbury and White Cliffs of Dover, adding a touch of natural beauty to their journey.

ECC Early College Academy alum Melaina Pellin, who is pursuing studies at Aberystwyth University in Wales, joined the London group and provided valuable insights and perspectives on life as a student abroad.

The London Spring Break experience has a rich history at East Central College, originally initiated by former ECC Art Professor Adam Watkins in 2008.

Over the years, the program has evolved to encompass a broader spectrum of disciplines, with Kolb assuming the role of co-advisor in 2016, welcoming English and Media Studies students to join Art students on this journey.

Mowery, who participated in the London trip as a student in 2018 and 2019, now serves as co-advisor alongside Kolb, continuing the tradition of offering this unique opportunity to students in the Arts and Humanities Pathway, the ECC Art Club or student publications.


ECC Marketing Team Recognized Nationally


March 26, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College’s Marketing team was honored with a prestigious national award for their postcard featuring photos of a local graduate taken during the College’s 2023 Commencement. The team clinched the 2023 Gold Paragon Award in the “Postcard” category from the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) at the council’s annual conference in Seattle on March 15.

The award-winning postcard was mailed to potential students who had initiated the application process to ECC but had yet to submit their completed applications. It featured three photos of ECC graduate Carly Hamlyn as she crossed the stage to receive her diploma.

Hamlyn, an ECC Early College Academy and Washington High School graduate, symbolized the journey prospective students could embark on.

NCMPR judges praised the postcard with “Great photography! Strong message and visuals.” They particularly commended the call to action, emphasizing its role in motivating prospective students to take the next step toward their academic goals.

Gregg Jones, Director of Communications and Marketing, accepted the award at the NCMPR conference, acknowledging the collective effort of ECC’s communication and marketing team.

The 2023 Paragon Awards received over 1,500 entries from 210 community and technical colleges nationwide, highlighting the stiff competition.

ECC’s communication and marketing team includes:

  • Cynthia Cubas, External Relations Executive Administrative Assistant
  • Joel Doepker, Vice President of External Relations
  • Gregg Jones, Director of Communications and Marketing
  • Andy Kolb, Coordinator of Web Services
  • Abby Stanfield, Multimedia Assistant
  • Amanda Studdard, Multimedia Specialist

The National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) is dedicated to communication professionals at two-year community and technical colleges, providing invaluable opportunities for professional growth, advocacy, and recognition of excellence.


Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society logo

ECC Phi Theta Kappa Chapters Excel at Heartland Regional Convention


March 22, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Students and advisors from Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) at East Central College were recognized for their hard work and dedication at a regional convention where they received chapter and individual awards. The Chi Delta PTK Chapter at the Union campus and the Beta Omicron Phi Chapter at ECC in Rolla earned “5-Star Status” with recognition as Five Star Chapter programs during the Heartland Regional Convention in Overland Park, Kan.

The annual convention provided a platform for members to learn about Phi Theta Kappa programs, hear from esteemed guest speakers, and delve into the new Honors Study Topic, “The Power of Stories,” said Kevin Dixon, Union PTK advisor.

PTK is an international honor society for two-year colleges. Members pursue activities that fall under the direction of the society’s hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship.

Throughout 2023, both chapters dedicated themselves to activities aligned with these core hallmarks. Members engaged in comprehensive research on the previous Honors in Action topic, “The Art and Science of Play,” and undertook a community service project.

Additionally, they collaborated with college leadership to design and execute a College Project aimed at directly benefiting ECC students. In mid-January, after meticulous preparation during the semester and holiday break, the chapters submitted their Hallmark Awards applications.

With 64 chapters in the Heartland Region, spanning Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska, the competition was formidable. Alongside nominations for officer and member awards, chapters had the opportunity to submit various art and media items for recognition.

Union Chapter

The Union Chi Delta Chapter earned first-place honors for their College Project Award and a second-place Distinguished Chapter award for the Heartland Region. The Chapter received an Honorable Mention for the Honors in Action Project Award.

Distinguished Chapter Officer awards were presented to Chi Delta members Sarah O’Bannon, second place; and Nicholas Rucker, fourth place.

The East Central College Phi Theta Kappa Chi Delta PTK Chapter
The East Central College Phi Theta Kappa Chi Delta PTK Chapter was recognized as a Five Star Chapter program during the Heartland Regional Convention in Overland Park, Kan. The Chapter also earned first-place honors for their College Project Award, the second-place Distinguished Chapter award, and Honorable Mention for the Honors in Action Project Award. Distinguished Chapter Officer awards were presented to Chi Delta members Sarah O’Bannon, second place; and Nicholas Rucker, fourth place. Front row, from left to right: Ethan Sandstrom, Katelyn Rice, Dr. Wendy Pecka (advisor), Melanie Dixon (advisor), and Kylie Napier. Back row, from left to right: Elijah Long, Taylor Rowald, Maria Guevara, Nicholas Rucker, and Kevin Dixon (advisor).

Rolla Chapter

Beta Omicron Phi chapter advisor Dr. Elizabeth Rozema was recognized as a 5-Star Advisor and for completing the PTK Advisor Edge program.

Individual awards were presented to members Justin Heberlie: Achievement in Photography, fifth place; and Briannah Tiarks: Distinguished Chapter Member, Honorable Mention.

“Congratulations go to the students who put in so much time and dedication to prepare these award applications, and a big thank you goes to my fellow advisors for all the work they’ve done on behalf of our Phi Theta Kappa students,” Dixon commented.

In addition to Kevin Dixon, Wendy Pecka and Melanie Dixon advise the Union Chi Delta Chapter.

To be eligible for PTK, students must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.4 for one semester and maintain a 3.2 GPA after their induction. Students can be pursuing any major, degree or certificate.

To learn more about PTK and to find contact information for advisors, visit East Central College Student Activities.

 

Dr. Elizabeth Winters-Rozema with students Mae May and Justin Heberlie
Pictured from left to right: Dr. Elizabeth Winters-Rozema (advisor), Mae May, and Justin Heberlie, members of the Beta Omicron Phi Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa at East Central College in Rolla. During the Heartland Regional Convention, Rozema was recognized as a 5-Star Advisor and for completing the PTK Advisor Edge program. Individual awards were presented to member Justin Heberlie for Achievement in Photography, fifth place; and Briannah Tiarks for Distinguished Chapter Member, Honorable Mention.


ECC to Host Public Forums on Levy Proposition


March 18, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College is organizing a series of public forums to offer residents the opportunity to stay informed and ask questions about Proposition ECC. These forums will delve into the details of the tax levy transfer and its benefits for both the community and the College.

The plan includes six in-person public forums in communities within the ECC Taxing District. Additionally, there will be a Facebook Live forum on April 1 from 6-7 p.m. on the ECC Facebook page, featuring ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer.

ECC is seeking voters’ approval for a levy transfer on the April 2 ballot that would result in no increase in the College’s property tax levy.

The forums are scheduled at the following locations:

  • New Haven Library — Monday, March 25, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
  • St. Clair Regional Library — Monday, March 25, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (Meeting Room B)
  • ECC Union Campus — Tuesday, March 26; 5:30-6:30 p.m. (Conference Room B)
  • Bourbon Community Center — Wednesday, March 27, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
  • Washington Public Library — Wednesday, March 27, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
  • Sullivan Regional Library — Thursday, March 28; 5:30-6:30 p.m.

The levy transfer is expected to generate $2.2 million annually for:

  • Enhanced safety and security measures on the Union Campus.
  • Necessary upgrades to modernize aging buildings, including the replacement of older HVAC units and repairs to campus parking lots and roads.
  • Renovations to campus spaces for the Early College Academy, STEM/Engineering lab, and a Veterans Lounge.
  • Assistance with rising health care, insurance, and salary costs.
  • Maintenance of affordable tuition and fees.

For more information about Prop ECC, please visit the Prop ECC page.

 


College’s CWD Sponsors First IT Apprenticeship


February 23, 2024 | Campus News

The first Information Technology-focused apprenticeship was recently completed through a partnership between East Central College’s Center for Workforce Development (CWD) and WEG Transformers USA. Erick Voss, a network and computer systems administrator at WEG, successfully finished a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Registered Apprenticeship program tailored to IT positions, marking the first of its kind at ECC.

Voss acquired proficiency in Microsoft Azure tools and online Azure programs, emphasizing the significance of cloud computing. Additionally, he received training in cybersecurity tools provided by Cisco. Voss highlighted the opportunity to select training that would be most beneficial for his role at WEG USA.

“I learned commands and tools for troubleshooting and networking, and I gained insights into detailed cybersecurity threats and the best ways to combat them,” he stated.

WEG’s human resources department recommended the apprenticeship to Voss and collaborated directly with the CWD. “I highly recommend this to my coworkers in IT because it can be tailored to any skill set,” he added.

Melissa Richards, ECC’s CWD apprenticeship and business training program coordinator, mentioned that CWD partnered with SAFAL Partners, a DOL intermediary offering training resources and apprenticeship expertise for sponsors like ECC. She highlighted that ECC utilized DOL funding to create this customized apprenticeship, with registrations and validations provided by the DOL.

“Industry partners like SAFAL enable ECC to expand into new areas of training and study, as we are primarily involved in manufacturing apprenticeships,” Richards explained. “We are always seeking to broaden our apprenticeship offerings and fields of study for all industries in our service region.

“Programs like this enable us to customize and tailor training to a company, a department, or a specific employee so they receive the training they need in an area of study relevant to their work or career advancement.”

To learn more about registered apprenticeships through ECC’s CWD, visit our Registered Apprenticeships page or call 636-649-5800.


College Seeks Sponsors, Vendors for Senior Expo and Health Fair


February 7, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College is preparing for its 16th Senior Expo and Health Fair and is seeking sponsors and vendors for the annual event.

The Senior Expo and Health Fair will be Wednesday, May 15, from 9 a.m. to noon in the Donald Shook Student Center. This free event will feature many local vendors.

The purpose of the event is to provide information to adults 55 years old and over, promote health awareness through education and prevention, and to provide information about available programs and services in our area.

Area seniors, who are 55 and older, can receive free health screenings, listen to speakers on various topics and win prizes. The event is in the College’s gym. Elevator and shuttle services from parking lots to the building will be available for our patrons.

For more information, contact External Relations Executive Administrative Assistant Cynthia Cubas at 636-584-6742.

Information for Vendors

Each vendor is asked to provide informational or educational materials, demonstration, screening, or service. Although vendors may demonstrate products, our Board of Trustee policies prohibit sales on our campus of articles or services.

Vendors are welcome to gather contact information from anyone interested in purchasing products or services later.

The vendor set-up date is Tuesday, May 14, from 2-5 p.m. Staff will be available to assist, and the gymnasium will be locked overnight to protect equipment and materials.

Anyone who cannot set up until May 15 morning, should contact Cubas to make arrangements.

There will be presentation opportunities during the Expo and Health Fair. Anyone with expertise on a subject, or anyone who can recommend someone to give such a talk, are asked to indicate that on the reservation form. A committee will select five presentation topics from those proposed by the vendors to share in a 15- to 20-minute talk on a subject of interest to seniors.

Sponsorships

ECC also is seeking event sponsorships. Listed are the sponsorship levels and what each level will receive:

Gold $500 donation — Sponsorship recognition on ECC’s corner digital sign, tabletop gold sponsor sign, KLPW radio interview the day of the event, sponsorship featured in event radio ad, sponsorship recognition in event advertising, company name and logo on sponsor recognition board, sponsorship acknowledgement on ECC’s website, sponsorship acknowledgement on social media and news releases and gold sponsorship acknowledgement in event program.

Silver $250 donation — KLPW radio acknowledgement the day of the event, sponsorship featured in event radio ad, sponsorship recognition in event advertising, company name and logo on sponsor recognition board, sponsorship acknowledgement on ECC’s website, sponsorship acknowledgement on social media and news releases and silver sponsorship acknowledgement in event program.

Bronze $100 donation — sponsorship recognition in event advertising, company name on sponsor recognition board, sponsorship acknowledgement on ECC’s website, sponsorship acknowledgement on social media and news releases and silver sponsorship acknowledgement in event program.

To receive sponsorship recognition information must be received by Friday, March 29.