Category: Campus News

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.

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 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.

Annual MLK Celebration to be Held at ECC on January 21

January 18, 2024 | Campus News Film and Lecture Series

The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, hosted by Neighbors United — Undoing Racism in conjunction with the ECC Film and Lecture Series, will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 21, at East Central College in Union. The free event will take place in the John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center and is open to the public.

This year’s featured speaker is Kenneth W. Wheeler, a retired ordained pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Wheeler is a sought-after preacher, public theologian, and writer. He serves as a guest lecturer on pastoral leadership in the 21st century at Wartburg Theological Seminary, where he received an honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree.

Wheeler often delivers sermons for the National observance of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. Most of his writings, sermons, and lectures focus on faith, race, and social justice. He is a respected elder and mentor to young pastors and seminarians.

A native of Jackson, Miss., Wheeler earned a B.A. in Religion from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., and a Master of Divinity from Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio.

The Rev. Eric Moeller of St. Peter’s UCC, Washington, will be performing original music as part of the program.

Neighbors United – Undoing Racism has been an active group in the Franklin County area, well-known for their Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations that bring together church and social groups to celebrate and work toward King’s legacy of equality and community. Church groups and individuals from across the area have joined forces to expand their reach and build relationships in the community. The Civic and Community Engagement Committee at East Central College co-hosts the event.

For more information, contact Aimee Appell (Neighbors United chairperson and pastor of Peace Lutheran Church in Washington) at pastoraimee@gmail.com or Leigh Kellmann Kolb, Associate Professor of English, at leigh.kolb@eastcentral.edu.

ECC Hosting 2024-25 Financial Aid Workshops

January 11, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College’s financial aid department will hold a series of workshops aimed at assisting students in completing the 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The workshops will take place in Buescher Hall, Union, room 182, from 5-6:30 p.m. on the following dates:

Tuesday, Jan. 16
Wednesday, Jan. 24
Tuesday, Jan. 30
Tuesday, Feb. 6
Tuesday, Feb. 20

These FAFSA Nights are designed to guide students through the application process and ensure they have the necessary support to access financial aid opportunities.

To attend the workshops, interested students must RSVP. To secure your spot, please call 636-584-6574 or email FinAid@EastCentral.edu.

For an effective workshop experience, students are encouraged to bring essential documents, including their Social Security number, driver’s license, W-2 forms, 2022 federal income tax return, and information on bank account balances, investments, and business or investment farm values.

ECC is committed to providing valuable resources to students as they navigate the financial aid application process. These workshops aim to simplify the FAFSA completion and ensure that every student can access the financial support they need for their education.