Category: Campus News

Rolla and Union ECC nursing students posing on stairs for photo

ECC Nursing Program Celebrates 31 Graduates

May 20, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College celebrated the achievements of 31 graduates from its Nursing Program during a pinning ceremony on May 11. This time-honored event brought together graduates from the Union and Rolla campuses along with their families, friends, faculty, staff, and administration.

Highlighting the ceremony, five exceptional students were honored for their outstanding commitment and excellence both in the classroom and in clinical settings. The ECC Outstanding Nursing Students recognized were Bryan Lambeth from Rolla and Summer Fisher from Union. Additionally, the Spirit of Clinical Excellence Awards were presented to Josie Obermark (Mercy), Gracie Sohn (Missouri Baptist Sullivan), and Mary Romine (Phelps Health).

The pinning ceremony, a cherished tradition in nursing, symbolizes the transition from student to professional nurse. Each graduate received a unique ECC Nursing Program pin, marking their entry into the community of nursing professionals.

Dean of Health Science and Director of Nursing Nancy Mitchell commenced the ceremony with welcoming remarks, followed by an inspiring greeting from ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer. Class of 2024 graduate Caitlyn Linders then delivered a warm student welcome.

The guest speaker, Dr. Connie Wissbaum, Director of Nursing Excellence at Mercy Hospital Washington and former ECC nursing instructor, shared invaluable insights and encouragement with the graduates. The ceremony concluded with poignant remarks from 2024 graduate Bryan Lambeth and closing comments from ECC Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Robyn Walter.

The Nursing program graduates are:

Lori Anderson, Josie Obermark, Taryn Curtis, Michelle Parker, Emma Davis, Sarah Parker, Summer Fisher, David Pauly, Joey Guyton, Sarah Price, Dalton Halloran, Laura Roesner, Taylor Hanger, Mary Romine, Sophia Howell, Madelyn Ruszala, Allison Huddleston, Gracie Sohn, Gabriel Killian, Macie Steffens, Maria Krull, Claire Strubberg, Bryan Lambeth, Kalyn Thompson, Rebekah Lewis, Grace Turilli, Caitlyn Linders, Allison Wilson, Rachel Lottes, Ariana Young, and Shaniah Marlatt.

Nursing Awards

The ECC Outstanding Nursing Student award is given to those whose lives were significantly impacted by the college, often helping them realize their dreams of becoming nurses. These awardees have excelled in both academic and clinical settings.

Additionally, Spirit of Clinical Excellence awards were given by ECC’s healthcare partners: Mercy Hospital Washington, Phelps Health in Rolla, and Missouri Baptist Hospital Sullivan. These awards honor graduates who demonstrate exceptional care, compassion, inquiry, critical thinking, and organizational skills.

ECC Nursing faculty from Union and Rolla campuses presented the awards, recognizing the graduates’ dedication and achievements.

ECC instructors posing for photo with nursing student

ECC instructors posing for photo with nursing student Josie Mercy

ECC instructors posing for photo with outstanding nursing student

ECC instructors posing for photo with Missouri Baptist nursing student

All-Missouri Academic Teams students with Dr. Robyn Walter and Kevin Dixon

ECC Students Named to All-Missouri Academic Teams

May 17, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Four standout students from East Central College have been recognized for their exceptional academic achievements by being named to the 2024 All-Missouri Academic Team.

The honorees are Hayden Loeb of Owensville, Donna Neulinger of Rolla, Chloe Nissen of Union, and Jagger Wood of Washington. These students were recognized by the Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) and the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) National Honor Society during a special ceremony sponsored by MCCA in April.

In recognition of their accomplishments, each student received a medallion, a certificate, and a cash scholarship sponsored by the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA). The PTK, in partnership with corporate sponsors, organizes the Academic All-USA competition for students from two-year colleges across the nation.

The selection process is rigorous. PTK evaluates applicants on a national scale and forwards the top Missouri candidates to the MCCA. From there, the 40 highest-ranking students in the state are designated as Academic All-State award winners. These include 10 students on the first team, 10 on the second team, and 20 on the third team.

East Central College nominates two to four students from each campus annually for the All-USA Team, making them automatic contenders for the All-Missouri Academic Team. The nomination process requires a comprehensive scholarship application, detailing the nominees’ campus and community activities and including a letter of recommendation that highlights a significant endeavor they accomplished during their time at ECC.

ECC Students named All-Missouri Academic Teams — Pictured are three of the four East Central College students named to the All-Missouri Academic Team. From left, are Jagger Wood of Washington, Donna Neulinger of Rolla, and Chloe Nissen of Union. Not pictured is Hayden Loeb of Owensville. Wood and Nissen attend classes at the Union campus, while Neulinger and Loeb are based at ECC in Rolla.

Welding student Nina with welding helmet

Carhartt and Metallica Foundation Award ECC $50,000

May 17, 2024 | Campus News

The band Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation (AWMH) and Carhartt are awarding East Central College $50,000 through Carhartt’s “For the Love of Labor” grant.

The “For the Love of Labor” grant will support women seeking education in the skilled trades programs. Five community colleges nationwide will each receive $50,000 to bolster women in career and technical education programs and promote the Metallica Scholars Initiative.

“This award acknowledges the work ECC does to provide Manufacturing career opportunities for our area’s business and industry.” said Joel Doepker, ECC Vice President of External Relations. “There are great opportunities for well-compensated positions with benefits, and this award increases our ability to focus on women pursuing a career in Manufacturing.”

The grant is funded by a single day of online sales of Carhartt women’s apparel earlier this year.

AWMH is working with Carhartt to shine a light on and address the skilled trades gap and highlight the women entering these essential jobs. The organizations are pushing against the narrative that women are less capable of handling work in the trades.

ECC will spend a large majority of the award on scholarships for women registered in Welding, Heating and Air-Conditioning, Industrial Engineering Technology, and the Precision Machining programs in the fall 2024 and spring 2025 semesters. The scholarship will assist students with the cost of tuition, fees, books, toolkits and provide a student stipend.

A primary reason ECC was selected is due to the number of women receiving a scholarship through the Metallica Scholars program, which provides scholarships in ECC’s Advanced Manufacturing programs.

“We were impressed with the number of women enrolled in the programs they profiled,” said Renee Richardson, Director of Philanthropy at Metallica’s Foundation, All Within My Hands. “It’s important to provide opportunities for women in the advanced manufacturing programs, and we think ECC will use the funding well.”

The Carhartt “For the Love of Labor” scholarship application is available online at www.eastcentral.edu/Carhartt.

Student Mary Romine posing with Dr. Bauer during graduation

Mary Romine Receives President’s Spirit of ECC Award

May 16, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Although East Central College Nursing program graduate Mary Romine received her diploma for Associate of Applied Science in Nursing on May 11, she has already been pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) for five months.

Romine, from Rolla, who attends classes at ECC in Rolla, is described as a leader among her peers and someone who consistently exceeds expectations in every aspect as a student. Additionally, she excels academically and demonstrates leadership within the Student Nurse Organization.

During ECC’s Commencement Ceremony, Romine was recognized for those qualities, and more, with the President’s Spirit of East Central College Award.

ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer presented the award to Romine, noting that she was graduating that day cum laude, and as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

Bauer added that Romine is active and holds leadership positions in multiple student organizations while maintaining an outstanding 3.58 GPA in nursing school.

“Her commitment to giving back to the community is evident through her volunteer work with school-aged children, where she shares her passion for the nursing profession,” he said.

In addition to the President’s Spirit award, Romine received the Phelps Health Spirit of Excellence in Nursing award during the Nursing program pinning ceremony earlier that day.

“I was utterly shocked to have received these awards…” she said. “When we took our seats at the commencement ceremony, I saw a section of the program that was all about me! I was so honored to have received both awards, and I was emotional because all my hard work paid off.”

“I live by being kind to each individual I meet and trying my hardest at everything I do,” Romine added. “Spreading this positivity and devotion aids in developing trust with others. To be appreciated and recognized meant the world to me, and I appreciate everyone involved in nominating and choosing me for these awards.”

Healthcare Field

Romine is already working in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Phelps Health in Rolla, and she will work as a full-time registered nurse now that she’s graduated. She plans to graduate with a BSN in May 2025. Meanwhile, she will study for the Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) exam.

Her next step will be to apply for the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) three-year program at MSU.

“If everything goes according to plan, I expect to graduate with my doctorate in 2029,” Romine said. “My end goal is to be a DNAP at Phelps Health Hospital. I love the Rolla community and want to build my dream home and family here in my hometown.”

“I want to thank everyone in my support system, including my family, fiancé, mentors, instructors, friends, the Rolla community, and the One Life ministry,” she added. “None of this would be possible without God, my number one supporter, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.'”

Sandy Lucy Named ECC Outstanding Alumni

May 15, 2024 | Campus News

Sandy Lucy of Washington was honored with the 2024 Outstanding East Central College Alumni award during the College’s 54th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 11. Lucy, a member of the Class of 1976, was celebrated for her pioneering contributions to her community.

Notably, she made history as the first female mayor of the City of Washington, serving in this role for 12 years.

Prior to that, she broke barriers as the first woman elected as chairperson of the Washington Chamber of Commerce. These achievements, along with her numerous other exceptional contributions to local politics and community service, led to her selection for the prestigious East Central College Foundation award.

Presented by ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer, the Outstanding Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed upon an ECC alum by the East Central College Foundation. It recognizes individuals who have brought honor to the College through their professional accomplishments, leadership, and community impact.

Drawing upon her experience as a transformative leader, Lucy delivered a message of empowerment to graduates, emphasizing the importance of being present in shaping the future.

“The world belongs to those who show up,” she said. “As life goes on, you will have many opportunities to get involved and participate — be someone people can count on.”

About Sandy Lucy

A graduate of St. Francis Borgia Regional High School, Lucy embarked on her educational journey at ECC, where she earned an associate degree in general studies before obtaining a degree in speech pathology and audiology from the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg.

Lucy’s commitment to serving others has been evident throughout her career. Following her academic pursuits, she worked as a speech and language pathologist in rural schools in Lincoln and Pike counties, positively impacting the lives of countless students.

Mayor Lucy

During her tenure as Mayor of Washington from 2010 to 2022, Lucy made significant strides in economic development and transportation growth, including overseeing milestones such as the opening of the new Missouri River Bridge.

Lucy’s leadership, characterized by respect, integrity, and a focus on community well-being, has earned her widespread admiration. Her dedication to ECC extends beyond her time in office, as she has served on the Foundation Board since 2005 and actively contributes to the ECC Alumni Association.

“It’s rare that our elected leaders are held in high esteem by the majority of their constituents,” her nomination read. Sandy Beste Lucy is one of those rare leaders.”

“She is a woman of exceptional character who shows everyone respect and leads with an eye focused on the big picture.”

In addition to her involvement with ECC, Lucy’s philanthropic endeavors include establishing an endowed scholarship in 2021 and serving on various community committees, including those for tourism, historic preservation, and the Washington Area Chamber of Commerce.

Managing the Gary Lucy Gallery, which she co-owns with her husband, Lucy is also engaged in organizations such as St. Francis Borgia Parish, Washington Rotary Club, and the Mercy Hospital Foundation Board.

Lucy’s impact on her community and alma mater is immeasurable, making her a truly deserving recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award.”

Past Recipients

2023 – Ina “Cookie” Hays – Union – Higher Education
2022 – Tim Unnerstall – Washington – Business Management
2021 – Eric Park – Washington – Financial Planning
2020 – Scott Breckenkamp – Washington – Banking
2019 – Dorothy Schowe – New Haven – Public Relations
2018 – Ron Unnerstall – Washington – Engineer
2017 – Audrey Freitag – New Haven – Nurse
2016 – Dave Arand – Union – Attorney
2015 – Anthony “Tony” Kreutz – Union – Business Admin
2014 – Amy Wildhaber – Beaufort – ER Dept Manager
2013 – Joseph Purschke – Union – Attorney at Law
2012 – Linda Mahon – Union – History/Educator
2011 – Ted Coburn – Villa Ridge – Probation & Parole
2010 – Ann Schroeder – Union – Political Science
2009 – Chris Stuckenschneider – Washington – Journalism
2008 – Ken Schmidt – Union – Engineering
2007 – Tammy Watz – Sullivan – Allied Health
2007 – Dr. Frank Miller – Washington – Allied Health
2006 – Deborah Koelling – Washington – Education

Kolb Presented with Emerson’s Glass Apple for Excellence

May 9, 2024 | Campus News

Leigh Kolb’s unwavering dedication to her students and her contributions to the academic community have earned her the prestigious 2023 Emerson Excellence in Teaching award.

Kolb has been an Associate Professor of English and Journalism at East Central College for the past 15 years, thriving as a full-time faculty member during that time; while positively impacting countless students with her passion for literature, film, and journalism.

Her commitment to the craft of writing, coupled with her genuine care for each student, distinguishes her as an outstanding educator.

“Leigh embodies the essence of excellence in teaching,” remarked one colleague. “Her ability to connect literature with current events fosters engagement and personal interest in class discussions, leaving a lasting impact on her students.”

The Excellence in Teaching Awards program, sponsored by Emerson, annually recognizes educators in the St. Louis metropolitan area who are examples of excellence in their field. Recipients are selected by administrators of their school districts or educational institutions, and they receive a glass apple from Emerson.

In addition to her excellence in teaching, Kolb’s committee work and professional accomplishments are exemplary. She has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the student experience through assessment of both formal curriculum and co-curricular activities.

As the co-chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, Kolb actively promotes an inclusive learning environment. She also spearheads the Film & Lecture Series, enriching communities through educational film screenings and scholarly discussions.

Additionally, Kolb continues to exercise her writing and critical thinking skills through contributions to pop culture and philosophy in magazines and books. Her recent work, “What Saves the World? Care and Ecofeminism,” is featured in the newly published book “Mad Max and Philosophy: Thinking Through the Wasteland.”

“Leigh is a passionate, dedicated, and effective teacher,” said one nominator. “She consistently creates an environment that encourages critical thinking and personal reflection, setting her students up for success both in and outside the classroom.”

The Emerson Excellence in Teaching award is a testament to Kolb’s commitment to academic excellence and student success.

Art Students Showcase Talents and Creativity at Exhibition

May 4, 2024 | Art Campus News

The annual East Central College Art and Design Student Exhibition showcased the remarkable talents of students from various disciplines demonstrating their creativity and skill.

The ECC Art Gallery buzzed with excitement during the April 25 reception as students and faculty gathered to celebrate the exceptional artwork on display.

Jennifer Higerd, Assistant Professor of Art and ECC Art Gallery Curator, and Sean Barton, Graphic Design Instructor and Art and Design Department Executive, presented awards to the talented winners in each category. They also acknowledged honorable mentions for their outstanding contributions.

Among the standout talents was Milo Guile, whose piece titled “Fallen Angel” earned him the highest recognition of “Best of Show.”

Milo’s achievement is exceptional given his previous success in last year’s exhibition with his wire art piece, “Coat Hanger,” which won Best of Show in the 2023 Exhibition.

The external juror, Sean Ramirez, a Senior Product Designer at Build-A-Bear Workshop, brought valuable expertise to the judging process. Prior to his current role, he contributed to the animation of beloved Disney films such as Mulan, Tarzan, Lilo and Stitch, and John Henry.

Below is the list of winners in each category:

Drawing — Maddi Jaegers, Bottles

Functional Ceramics — Christina Keeven, Fish Plate

Figure Drawing — Kayla Brinkmann, My Dome

Painting — Ash Marcus, Not an f* chicken*

2D Design — Angelique Holtmeyer, Catlusion

Illustration — Lann Remer, The Troll Emerges

Digital Design — Kayla Brinkmann, Moscow

Graphic Design — Hallelujah Medlock, Fruits of the Spirit

Sculpture — Carlie Shaw, Sweet Music

Film Photography — Miriam Bondor, Once upon a time

Printmaking — Hallelujah Medlock, Illuminated Tree

Honorable Mentions

Figure Drawing — Chae Keeney, Kimber

Painting — Amy Hervey, Shoes

Patron’s Picks

Continuing a tradition spanning over a decade, ECC’s Patrons of the Arts graciously supported our student artists by acquiring the following artworks to enrich the ECC Art Collection:

Ash Marcus – Not an f** Chicken

Carlie Shaw – Sweet Music

Desiree Delisi – The Overgrown

Hallelujah Medlock – Fruits of the Spirit

Hannah Pilarski – Brim

Lann Remer – Amalgamation of Consumerism

Maddi Jaegers – Mime

Connor Flaherty – Drift Away

Zoe Meyer – Sunset Clouds

Daisy Conquers ECC Spelling Bee Once Again

May 2, 2024 | Campus News

Daisy Fearn solidified her status as the “Queen Bee” at this year’s East Central College Regional Spelling Bee, showcasing her exceptional spelling skills once more.

Daisy, a sixth grader at Pacific Intermediate School, sat atop the winner’s stand, alone, on Saturday, April 27, for the 2024 spelling competition. Last year, she was named co-champion alongside then St. Francis Borgia Middle School eighth grader, Scott Harriman.

Daisy’s performance earned her a first-place trophy, a $100 cash prize, and the esteemed title of sole Spelling Bee champion for the year.

Held at the John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center at ECC, the event was made possible by the ECC Foundation, and it was graciously sponsored by hth Companies, Inc., Union.

Accompanying Daisy in the winner’s circle were Lydia Christiansen, an eighth grader from St. Francis Borgia Grade School, who secured the second-place trophy and a $50 cash prize, and Elijah Rock, an eighth grader from Union Middle School, who clinched third place along with a third-place trophy and $25.

Stage decorations for this year’s Spelling Bee were provided by Andy’s Produce.

Spelling Bee Participants

In total, 23 participants showcased their spelling expertise at this year’s Bee. Among them, the top 10 finalists were honored with medals, representing various elementary and middle schools in the region:

Isabella Eudy, Immaculate Conception School; Cecilia Reed, Central Elementary; Gunnar Swebilius, Meramec Valley School District; Avery Jones, Our Lady of Lourdes; Mason Raney, Labadie Elementary; Lillie Barker, New Haven Middle School; and Landon Reagan, Washington Middle School.

Other participants in the Bee included Brant Copeland, Blain Dooley, Beau Miller, Bentley Sullentrup, Avery Eichmeyer, Jackson Evans, Abby Kallmbah, Leo Koti, L.J. Lapiz, Aiden Lehr, Jervin Mark, Rai Leigh Roberts, and Kendall von Wolfseck.

Participants in the Spelling Bee are determined at area elementary and middle schools, which send their school spelling bee champion to compete in the ECC Bee. Schools hold independent bees throughout the winter to select the top speller to represent them in the region.

Bee competitors are students in grades four through eighth. They do not advance to competition following the ECC Spelling Bee, but the regional bee gives students a chance to compete after the school-level competitions.

Organizers & Bee Officials

Dr. Jon Bauer, East Central College President, once again served as the pronouncer of the Bee.

The Spelling Bee judges were Pam Kaiser, program coordinator for ECC’s Center for Workforce Development; Sue Henderson, director of assessment and accreditation at Maryville University and former associate professor of English at ECC; and Linda Barro, ECC associate professor of English.

The Spelling Bee 2024 Steering Committee members are Jennifer Baker, Jennifer Hawkins, Bridgette Kelch, Patty Kellmann, Cassidy Desmond, Terri Ogle, and Cynthia Cubas.

Past Champions of The Bee

2023 – Daisy Fearn, Pacific Intermediate School; and Scott Harriman, St. Francis Borgia Middle School
2019 – Matthew Blomberg, Our Lady of Lourdes
2018 – Gabbie Helm, Our Lady of Lourdes
2017 – Max Grimes, Washington Middle School
2016 – Kelci Moore, Riverbend School
2015 – Samantha Doepker, Clearview Elementary School
2014 – Emily Braun, Union Middle School
2013 – Emily Braun, Union Middle School
2012 – McKenzie White, Meramec Valley Middle School
2011 – Ashley Roberts, St. Francis Borgia Grade School.

Future ECC Regional Spelling Bees are scheduled for the last Saturday in April each year. For more information, please contact the Foundation at Foundation@eastcentral.edu or call 636-584-6506.

ECC Employees Recognized with NISOD Excellence Awards

May 1, 2024 | Campus News

Three East Central College employees are being recognized for their dedication to students, the College and their coworkers with 2024 NISOD (National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development) Excellence Awards.

The ECC award recipients are Dr. Parvadha Acosta, Associate Professor, Biology; Chad Baldwin, Director of Online Learning & Educational Technology; and Megan Elbert, Executive Administrative Assistant, VP of Student Development.

NISOD is a professional development provider that offers programs and resources for community and technical colleges. Member colleges can recognize employees through the Excellence Awards, which are presented to faculty and staff who are doing extraordinary work on their campuses.

Award recipients receive a unique silver medallion engraved with The University of Texas and NISOD insignias and adorned with a burnt orange ribbon. NISOD is based out of the University of Texas in Austin.

Each recipient was nominated for this award by a colleague and selected by the administrative team after the nominations were reviewed.

“On behalf of the entire institution, I offer my heartfelt thanks to each of these individuals for the service they provide daily to ECC students and to their colleagues,” said ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer. “Job well done and recognition well deserved.”

Below are comments about each recipient from their nominations.

Dr. Parvadha Acosta

“Dr. Acosta has grown in her role as faculty, becoming one of ECC’s strongest student advocates,” her nomination reads.

“She is an active supporter of faculty professional development and took on a leadership role in ECC’s faculty professional development’s first ever Chew On This watch party and discussion. Her commitment to the community shows in her leadership of ECC’s Earth Day and United Way.”

Chad Baldwin

“Chad is the backbone of our online learning world,” his nominator wrote. “He’s the wizard who makes sure online classes run like a well-oiled machine.

“Chad is not just a tech genius; he’s a game-changer for ECC and the man who keeps us on track and makes our online learning experience top-notch!”

Megan Elbert

“Megan does the big things and little things to make people feel supported and welcomed. She many times is a go to person for support as she is extremely good at making individuals feel heard and seen,” Megan’s nomination states.

“Staff turn to her when they need advice or guidance. She has served on many key college committees and roles such as the insurance committee, the compensation committee, multiple board policy review teams, and served as a strategic planning tri-chair just to name a few. Megan provides service for our students both behind the scenes and on the front lines.”

ECC Rolla Students Recognized During Achievement Night

April 30, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College students were recently honored at the Rolla Student Achievement Night for their exceptional accomplishments, leadership, and academic prowess throughout the academic year.

Hosted annually by the Office of Campus Life and Leadership and the Rolla Engagement Council, this year’s Achievement Night took place on April 24.

Students are nominated for awards by faculty to acknowledge academic excellence, perseverance, and contributions to a culture of student success, both inside and outside the classroom.

Outstanding Student Leader:

Alicia Ramirez, Student Nurses Organization

Collaborative Excellence Award:

Emma Willison, Student Nurse Organization

Spirited Falcon Award:

Dana Lawson, Allied Health Department, Radiologic Technology Program
Dakoyta Hendrix, Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

Inductees into the National Adult Education Honor Society:

Zoe Wells
Shaielynn Cox

Club Officer Recognition:

Bryan Lambeth, Student Nurse Organization
Alaina Sy, Student Government Association
Gabrielle McDonald, Student Government Association
Adrianne Parks, Student Government Association

Academic Distinction:

Jordon Taylor
Alejandra De Luna
Mary Romine
Logan Metzen
Dekowta Coons
Jonathan Metzen
Cristin Foster
Samantha Britton
Tim Ringeisen
Brooke Busenitz
Anabell Borrok
Amy Studdard
Moriah Renaud
Kayla Brown
Ty Locklear
Mo Greenlee