Tag: East Central College Foundation

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

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.

Foundation Seeks Outstanding ECC Alumni Nominations

January 8, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

The East Central College Foundation is on the lookout for exceptional alumni who have left a lasting impact on their communities and beyond. Nominations are now open for the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award, a prestigious recognition reserved for those who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and leadership.

Nominees must have completed a college credit course at ECC during their educational journey. Foundation Executive Director Bridgette Kelch said that nominees should be recognized as leaders in their respective fields, showcasing a dedicated commitment to community service. Residency within the college district is not required.

“Our annual Outstanding Alumni award serves as a fitting tribute to acknowledge the remarkable dedication of our alumni to both their careers and communities,” Kelch said. “We know that many of our alumni are deserving of this prestigious award, and we are reaching out to the community for assistance in identifying these outstanding contributors.”

Nominees are expected to showcase exceptional contributions to ECC or the community, with a sustained commitment to the college, she added.

Nomination Guidelines

Current candidates for public office and past recipients are not eligible for the award.

To nominate a former ECC student, write an explanation in 500 words or less as to why the person is worthy of consideration. The explanation should accompany the nomination. Nominations must be received by April 10, 2024. All nominations received within the last three years are eligible.

The nomination form can be accessed from the webpage: www.eastcentral.edu/alumni/alumni-of-the-year/. People also can email foundation@eastcentral.edu or call 636-584-6505 to request the form for more information.

The recipient will be selected by the ECC Foundation Alumni Committee. A formal invitation to the 2024 Commencement Ceremonies will be sent to the honoree and a plaque will be displayed at the ECC Union campus in his or her honor.

Nominations Sought for Outstanding ECC Alumni

February 15, 2023 | Campus News ECC Rolla

There are many great East Central College alumni making a difference in their communities, and throughout the world.

And now is the perfect time to recognize those former students.

Nominations are being sought for the 2023 Outstanding Alumni Award presented by the East Central College Foundation.

To be considered for the award, nominees must have completed a college credit course at ECC at some point in their educational journey.

According to Bridgette Kelch, Foundation executive director, nominees should be viewed by their peers as leaders in their field, with a demonstrated commitment to their community. Residency within the college district is not required.

“Our annual Outstanding Alumni award is the perfect way to recognize an alum’s commitment to their career and community,” Kelch said. “We know that many of our alumni are deserving of this prestigious award and are reaching out to the community for help to find those deserving individuals.”

Nominees should demonstrate outstanding contributions to ECC or the community, and nominees must have an ongoing commitment to ECC, she added.

Guidelines

Current candidates for public office and past recipients are not eligible for the award.

To nominate a former ECC student, write an explanation in 500 words or less as to why the person is worthy of consideration. The explanation should accompany the nomination. Nominations must be received by Friday, March 31. All nominations received within the last three years are eligible.

The nomination form can be accessed from the webpage: www.eastcentral.edu/alumni/alumni-of-the-year/. People can also email foundation@eastcentral.edu or call 636-584-6505 to request the form for more information.

The recipient will be selected by the ECC Foundation Alumni Committee. A formal invitation to the 2023 Commencement Ceremonies will be sent to the honoree and a plaque will be displayed at the ECC Union campus in his or her honor.

PTK Provides Funds to Extend Spring Meal Program

May 18, 2022 | Campus News

The East Central College Foundation’s Food for Falcons program was given financial boost this spring to help keep the trial running longer.

The Chi Delta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society contributed financially to assist in extending the program from four weeks to six weeks, according to Bridgette Kelch, executive director of the Foundation. The program ended April 28.

Food for Falcons began as a four-week trial program to provide one free meal each school day, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., for all students at its Union campus. It was started to help thwart food insecurity for students on campus.

Food insecurity is an issue impacting all areas, and ECC is doing what it can address it, Kelch said.

“The Food for Falcons trial was very eye-opening for us here at the college,” she added.

The Foundations pilot program ran, as planned, for four weeks from March 21 through April 14.

Kelch noted that during that time it cost the Foundation $7,344.30 in food costs, and to pay a student to work in the café to help with the sudden hike in the number of meals served.

When the four-week trial period ended April 14, there were questions if some students would have any access to even one meal each day.

That’s when the Chi Delta Chapter of PTK stepped in with the offer to assist in keeping the program going for two more weeks.

“We were thrilled when PTK contacted us and wanted to extend the trial program. We are very grateful for their support of their fellow students,” Kelch said. “Now the Foundation and ECC administration are discussing the possibilities of a semester-long program in the fall, and its costs.”

Once the program wrapped up for the spring semester on April 28, there were 1,746 meals served in 23 days at the cost of $11,458.30.

How it Works

During the six weeks of the Food for Falcons students, were required to show their ID in the school cafeteria and could choose from a variety of breakfast or lunch options.

“We know some of our students are skipping meals due to limited resources,” said Kelch, who credits ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer with the idea of providing complimentary meals.

Dr. Bauer had learned about a similar program being offered by Ozark Technical Community College which provides a free breakfast for students, she explained.

Kelch said offering food assistance should lead to better and more successful outcomes for students, which benefits the greater community.

Hunger can force students to drop out of school to work more, or perform poorly in their classes, she added, all of which inhibits academic success. ECC also offers a food pantry on campus which students can access at no cost.

ECC Foundation to Award Six Mini-Grants

November 23, 2020 | Campus News

The East Central College Foundation is awarding six mini-grants this year totaling $8,380 to departments and programs at the college.

The grants are funded annually through the Albert C. Buescher Memorial Fund.

Foundation Director Bridgette Kelch said the grants are given out to help support various scholastic departments and programs.

Since 2009, the ECC Foundation Board has awarded nearly $100,000 to college departments and programs through its mini-grants initiative.

This year, grants will fund The Learning Center’s Biggest Winner, new signage for the Nursing & Allied Health program, a new “Energy Barbecue Grill” for the Business and Industry Center, a new mascot costume for the Communications and Marketing Department, a timpani for the Music Department and additional signs for Arts and Sciences programs.

According to Lisa Haag, TLC English specialist, The Biggest Winner contest is meant to provide a financial incentive for students to prioritize academic success.

“For many students, academic performance suffers due to economic necessity,” she said. “Many students struggle to complete assignments, attend class, and seek help due to being over-extended with work.”

Each semester for the next three years, students taking more than six credit hours will be invited to take part in the contest. The students who increase their test scores by the greatest margin will earn cash prizes of $250, first place; $125, second place; and $75, third place.

A cross-curriculum project will be funded by a Foundation mini grant that will benefit students in the HVAC, Welding, Industrial Engineering Technology, Precision Machinery and Culinary Arts programs.

The New Energy BBQ Grill will be built by the students and powered by solar energy. The grill will have two refrigeration units and a storage compartment. The grill will feature two television screens that will show video of how the grill was made.

The grill will be used in public as an educational and promotional tool for the Business and Industry Center programs.

The ECC Music Department will receive funds for a new 26-inch Yamaha copper timpani (kettledrum) to be used for instruction and performances.

“The ability to practice and perform modern percussion literature is crucial if students are to perform at the junior level when they transfer to a four-year university,” said Aaron Bounds, director of bands.

The Foundation awarded the Arts and Sciences Division at ECC funds for new signage, including floor banners, tabletop banners and tablecloths to promote the five pathways in Arts and Sciences.

The Nursing and Allied Health program also will receive funds for signage, including banners and tablecloths, which will be used to promote and highlight the program and its offerings.

A Foundation mini grant will also fund a new Franklin the Falcon mascot costume to be used for internal and community events to promote the college and Foundation.

In addition to the $8,380 funded by the Foundation, the College funded $7,007 for other projects. These projects include:

Student Food Pantry’s new refrigerator and freezer;
Biology Department’s BioHuman Anatomy Software;
The Learning Center’s new headsets;
Assessment Showcase Event;
Center for Workforce Development’s new testing equipment; and
Communications and Marketing’s new directional signage.

To learn more about the ECC Foundation, visit www.eastcentral.edu/foundation/.

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.

Friends of the Foundation Gala Raises More than $30,000 for Scholarships

February 14, 2019 | Campus News

Each year, the East Central College Foundation hosts its largest fundraiser to provide scholarships for students. In honor of East Central College’s 50th Anniversary, the 2019 Friends of the Foundation event was held at the Union City Auditorium on Friday, February 1.

“The auditorium is special place for the college,” said President Dr. Jon Bauer. “East Central College got its start in that building. Our first classes were held there back in 1969 before we had a campus to call home.”

History was a dominant theme at the Friends of the Foundation Gala.

“We had several interactive displays at the event,” said Angie Siebert. “It’s always enjoyable to see an old photo of someone you know or of an event that sparks a good memory.”

More than 200 people attended the annual gala, raising $32,150 for student scholarships.

“Every dollar committed to the Foundation helps strengthen our communities for all of us,” said Dr. Bauer, “and enhances the lives of our students forever. It is an economic and a human investment.”

The East Central College Foundation solicits and receives tax deductible gifts which are managed for the benefit of the college and its students. It is chartered as a non-profit 501 (c)3 organization for educational purposes.

Photo: Dr. Raymond and Brenda Ker, supporters of the East Central College Foundation, at the Friends of the Foundation Gala.

Job Opening: Executive Director of East Central College Foundation

November 20, 2018 | Campus News

East Central College has an immediate opening for an Executive Director, Foundation/Director, Institutional Development.

The Executive Director is responsible for leading and strengthening a comprehensive fundraising program in support of East Central College Foundation’s mission and goals. Specific emphasis is focused on annual giving, major giving, planned giving, grants and fundraising events.

The Executive Director will strive to build a greater understanding and support for Foundation’s mission, vision and goals in the region. The Executive Director is an ex-officio member of the East Central College Foundation Board of Directors and is also a member of the President’s Cabinet of East Central College.

For more information about the position, please visit the Job Openings page.

The East Central College Foundation was established to support the growth and development of East Central College in whatever ways might be beneficial to our students, our staff and our facility. It solicits and receives tax deductible gifts which are managed for the benefit of the college and its students. It is chartered as a non-profit 501 (c)3 organization for educational purposes.

Every dollar committed to the ECC Foundation helps strengthen our communities for all of us and enhances the lives of our students forever. It is an economic and a human investment.

Foundation Awards 2018 Mini-Grants

November 20, 2018 | Campus News

The East Central College Foundation awards mini-grants each year to scholastic departments and programs through The Albert C. Buescher Memorial Fund. In 2018, four awards were given to help support various initiatives.

The Math Department was awarded a mini-grant to purchase new TI-84+ graphing calculators for students to use in class.

Student Services will use its mini-grant to pilot a text messaging system for student communication.

“Research has shown that students do not respond well to phone calls, letters, or emails. They respond best to text messages,” said Stephanie Hebert, Enrollment Management Systems Manager.

If the six-month pilot program goes well, the system could be permanent at the college.

“This project will assist our students by providing them with just-in-time information regarding enrollment, tuition, and financial aid as well as advance the college by increasing enrollment and decreasing bad debt,” Hebert explained.

Phi Theta Kappa will use its mini-grant to help fund a trip to Montgomery, Alabama to see the National Memorial for Peace and Justice.

The Institutional Research Department was awarded a mini-grant in order to provide training for its staff for Microsoft Power BI, a data presentation tool.

“Our hope is this tool will assist our department in presenting data in a simplified and easy-to-understand way,” said Bethany Lohden, Director of Institutional Research. “In turn, it will encourage employees to use the institution’s data when making decisions.”

Over the past ten years, the ECC Foundation has awarded more than $90,000 to various college departments and groups.