Tag: East Central College

Senior couple in yoga class, stretching arms in a park

ECC Seeks Sponsors & Vendors for Senior Expo

February 16, 2025 | Campus News

East Central College is gearing up for its 17th annual Senior Expo and Health Fair, an event designed to connect area seniors with valuable resources, health screenings, and community organizations. The College is currently seeking sponsors and vendors to participate.

The Senior Expo and Health Fair will take place on Wednesday, May 21, from 9 a.m. to noon in the Donald Shook Student Center. This free event will feature a variety of local vendors, informative speakers, and opportunities to win prizes.

Open to adults 55 and older, the expo focuses on health awareness, education, and prevention, while also highlighting programs and services available in the community. Attendees can take advantage of free health screenings and learn from experts on topics relevant to senior well-being.

The event will be held in the College’s gym, with elevator and shuttle services available for easy access from parking lots.

For more details, contact Cynthia Cubas, External Relations Executive Administrative Assistant, 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 20, 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 21 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, KLPW radio interview the day of the event for first five Gold sponsors, 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 i acknowledgment 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 28.

ECC students Claire and Eric smiling together in the Learning Center

Study Sessions to Soulmates — A Love Story Born at ECC

February 14, 2025 | Campus News

When Claire (Smith) and Eric Feldmann first met at East Central College’s Learning Center, romance wasn’t yet in the air. She was an English tutor, he was a math tutor, and their shared shifts were filled with assisting students, sneaking in homework, and plenty of good-natured banter.

But dating? Not on the agenda.

Fast forward nearly a decade, and ECC’s campus is more than just the place where they earned degrees—it’s where their love story began.

Beginning at ECC

Claire, an Owensville High School graduate, started at ECC in Fall 2013 and earned her Associate of Arts in Teaching before transferring to Mizzou in 2015. Eric, who attended Washington High School, began his ECC journey a year later, studying Pre-Engineering before transferring to Missouri S&T in 2017.

Male and female couple kissing outside in the snow following a wedding. — On Nov. 30, 2024, Claire (Smith) and Eric Feldmann married. Photo by Cinthya Navarro Photography.

Their paths crossed in a British Literature course with Dr. Bob Mahon, but it wasn’t until they both took tutoring jobs at the Learning Center in Spring 2015 that they truly got to know each other.

“We were really good friends, and we got along really well,” Claire said. “But we didn’t date.”

However, they did get to know each other during their shifts comprised of helping students navigate everything from math equations to essay revisions. Both credit their time at ECC for providing a strong academic foundation, and they agree that the Learning Center was a highlight.

“We loved working there—the staff was great, and the environment was supportive. Plus, getting paid to help others and do homework on the side wasn’t bad either,” Claire laughed.

Paths Cross Again

After ECC, Claire and Eric pursued their respective careers—Claire as a high school English teacher and Eric as a software engineer. Life took them in different directions, and for eight years, they didn’t speak.

That changed in May 2023 when Eric sent Claire an unexpected message on Snapchat. One conversation led to another, and soon they were meeting at the Washington Riverfront for ice cream and a walk with Claire’s dog, Sarge—who would later become their dog.

From that first reconnection, everything clicked.

Years in the Making

On Nov. 30, 2024, Claire and Eric officially tied the knot. ECC may not have been part of the wedding planning, but it was part of their journey.

“The Learning Center is where we really got to know each other,” Claire said. “It’s where we learned how similar our senses of humor are and how aligned our values and goals were. Even though life took us separate ways for a little while, ECC was the foundation for our relationship.”

Claire and Eric smiling and holding hands in the Learning Center

Looking back, they wouldn’t change a thing about their time at ECC.

“It was financially smart, academically beneficial, and gave us opportunities we wouldn’t have had at a larger school,” Claire said. “And, of course, the Learning Center just might help you find the love of your life.”

ECC has played another role in their story: Claire’s mother, Dr. Michelle Smith, is the College’s Director of Institutional Effectiveness. A role she assumed in 2018 after Claire and Eric had graduated.

For current ECC students debating whether to take advantage of tutoring services, Eric and Claire have some advice: “Go to the Learning Center! You never know who you’ll meet.”

From study sessions to career success, and eventually finding each other again, Claire and Eric’s journey proves that sometimes, the best love stories aren’t the ones that happen instantly—they’re the ones that take time. And for these two, it all started at ECC.

The photographer at the Feldmann wedding was Cinthya Navarro Photography.

Group of high school students in school colors and casual clothes after academic challenge at ECC.

Scholars Put to the Test in Engineering & Science Challenge at ECC

February 12, 2025 | Campus News

More than 50 students from three high schools competed in the annual Academic Challenge for Engineering and Science on Feb. 5.

The competition is designed to challenge the best and brightest high school students. This year, varsity teams from Washington High School and Warrenton High School competed in the 1,500-school category. Washington High School secured first place, with Warrenton High taking second.

In the small (300) school category, the Houston High School varsity squad claimed the top spot.

All three varsity teams will advance to the sectional competition, which will be held online in March. In addition to the varsity teams, junior varsity—or at-large—teams from Washington and Warrenton also participated in the Academic Challenge. Several at-large students will advance independently of the varsity teams.

Warrenton students who participated in Academic Challenge lined up in Donald Shook Student Center

About the Challenge

The Academic Challenge is a series of in-person, high school competitions organized by The School of Extended Learning at Eastern Illinois University, with assistance from ECC and other institutions in Missouri and Illinois.

Students participated in a series of tests across seven subject areas: biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering graphics, English, mathematics, and physics. The tests are designed to challenge top-performing high school students with material drawn from high school senior and college freshman curricula, helping bridge the gap between secondary and higher education.

Tests are taken individually, and prizes are awarded for the highest individual scores in each subject area, as well as for top team scores. Alison Tucker, STEM Recruitment & Success Coordinator, who organizes the ECC event, explained that the tests are written by college-level faculty and designed to provide a rigorous challenge for students.

The Academic Challenge is divided into large (1,500), intermediate (700), and small (300) school categories. This year, schools competed in the 1,500 and 300 divisions at ECC, with the top teams and individual winners advancing to sectionals.

Houston students who participated in Academic Challenge lined up in Donald Shook Student Center

300 Division

1st Place – Houston High School, 500 points
Team members: Ben Steelman, Gracyn McNiell, Hudson Volk, Kendal Johnson, Brody Adkison, Kristen Ely, Adyson Dailing, and Owen Wells.

1500 Division

1st Place – Washington High School, 493 points
Team members: Nathaniel Oreskovic, Grace Gargrave, Adam Kassebaum, Eleanor Raeker, McLaine Graham, Luke Mauchenheimer, Cooper Guss, Sarah Stewart, Colton Warnecke, Peter Bush, Phineas Schneider, Christain Rennick, and Thomas Enkvetchakul.

2nd Place – Warrenton High School, 444 points
Team members: Alice Briggs, Jeremiah Hunn, Malia Hopper, Jadyn Hopper, Bradyn Sanders, Rylan Arndt, Mykenzy Sebastian, Wade Petersmeyer, Becca Spencer, Shamad Henry, Joe Buechner, and Charlotte Sibert.

At-Large Competitors Advancing

Amelia Hux (Warrenton) – Chemistry
Brennan Sullivan (Washington) – Computational Science
Daniel Middleton (Warrenton) – Engineering Graphics
Brooklyn Wells (Warrenton) – Physics

Individual Results

300 Division (All from Houston High School)

Biology

1st – Ben Steelman
2nd – Owen Wells

Chemistry

1st – Kristen Ely
2nd – Hudson Volk
3rd – Adyson Dailing

Computational Science

1st – Brody Adkison

Engineering Graphics

1st – Owen Wells

English

1st – Gracyn McNiell
2nd – Adyson Dailing
3rd – Kendal Johnson

Mathematics

1st – Kendal Johnson
2nd – Gracyn McNiell
2nd – Hudson Volk

Physics

1st – Kristen Ely
1st – Brody Adkison
3rd – Ben Steelman

1500 Division

Biology

1st – Jeremiah Hunn (Warrenton)
2nd – Cooper Guss (Washington)
3rd – Wade Petersmeyer (Warrenton)
3rd – Amelia Hux (Warrenton)

Chemistry

1st – Eleanor Raeker (Washington)
1st – Nathaniel Oreskovic (Washington)
2nd – Amelia Hux (Warrenton)
2nd – Charlotte Sibert (Warrenton)

Computational Science

1st – Adam Kassebaum (Washington)
2nd – Phineas Schneider (Washington)
2nd – Brennan Sullivan (Washington)
2nd – Rylan Arndt (Warrenton)

Engineering Graphics

1st – Malia Hopper (Warrenton)
2nd – Peter Bush (Washington)
2nd – Daniel Middleton (Warrenton)

English

1st – Alice Briggs (Warrenton)
2nd – Nathaniel Oreskovic (Washington)
3rd – Cooper Guss (Washington)

Mathematics

1st – McLaine Graham (Washington)
2nd – Joel Eckelkamp (Washington)
2nd – Alice Briggs (Warrenton)

Physics

1st – Rylan Arndt (Warrenton)
2nd – McLaine Graham (Washington)
2nd – Brooklyn Wells (Washington)

Simplified map of Missouri with the ECC Taxing District highlighted, with text: $110.9 million per year.

Report Highlights ECC’s $110.9M Impact to Local Economy

January 29, 2025 | Campus News

East Central College plays a vital role in strengthening the region’s economy, contributing $110.9 million in the 2022-23 fiscal year and supporting nearly 1,900 local jobs.

That means one out of every 26 jobs in the ECC Taxing District is connected to the college, underscoring ECC’s role as a key driver of economic growth through job creation, business investments, and student success.

These findings come from a newly released economic impact study, which highlights how ECC creates jobs, boosts local businesses, and increases earning potential for students and graduates. The independent study was conducted by Idaho-based Lightcast, using objective third-party data to demonstrate the economic and social benefits of ECC.

“This study reaffirms ECC’s role as a vital economic engine—strengthening our workforce, fueling businesses, and driving regional growth,” said ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer.

Alumni Contributions

Since ECC was founded in 1968, thousands of alumni have entered or re-entered the workforce, securing jobs and contributing to the regional economy. Today, many of these former students are employed throughout the area.

The net impact of ECC alumni currently working in the region totaled $90.5 million in added income during 2022-23. Their success strengthens businesses, fuels industries, and ensures a skilled workforce remains in the community—showcasing ECC’s lasting impact beyond the classroom.

Job Creation

ECC employs 453 faculty and staff members, with a payroll of $18.2 million. Most of that money stays in the community, spent on housing, food, and other essentials.

The college also invested $8.7 million in facilities, supplies, and services, generating $10.9 million in added income for the local economy last year.

Many ECC students relocate to the area for school, while others choose to stay local instead of leaving for college elsewhere. Their combined spending on housing, food, and transportation added $9.5 million to the local economy in 2022-23, benefiting landlords, businesses, and service providers across the region.

For more data and the full economic impact study, visit the Economic Value of East Central College.

An older male worker wearing glasses and blue overalls instructs a younger male worker in a hard hat and plaid shirt in a manufacturing setting. They are reviewing a technical document together, symbolizing training and skill development in the workplace.

ECC Receives $1.2 Million for Area Manufacturers

December 30, 2024 | Campus News

The East Central College Center for Workforce Development (CWD) has received $1.2 million in customized training funds to support leadership development and workforce training for employees at several area manufacturers in the region.

The funds are provided through the Missouri One Start program, a part of the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

Ranging from $8,000 to $65,000 per company, the funds will help manufacturers enhance employee skills, foster leadership growth, and strengthen the region’s workforce. A total of 32 area manufacturers are receiving funding.

“This funding is a significant investment in our local economy and workforce,” said Todd Tracy, CWD Executive Director. “We are proud to partner with area businesses to provide tailored training programs that meet their specific needs and drive success.”

Impact Locally

According to Connie Rasmussen of Bugeye Technologies in Union, the company is using the training funds to provide leadership development for its management team and technical training for its employees. The training focuses on building management skills, achieving IPC certification, and improving proficiency in Excel—all critical for their operations as a smaller company.

“The training funds have allowed us to complete training for our managers and employees that we would have otherwise not been in our budget,” Rasmussen said. “The majority of our management team are younger employees and have not been in a managerial position previously, so the additional training has been beneficial in helping develop good Managers.”

She added that training funds like these are crucial to small businesses with limited training budgets.

“It is also helpful that ECC supports the growth and development of smaller businesses in our area,” Rasmussen said. “The grant funds are a tremendous help to small businesses.”

Kayla Whitcraft, Operations Analyst and Project Manager at Enjet Aero, shared that the company has benefited from customized training in leadership development, CNC programming, and CMM statistical analysis. This training has equipped their team with specialized skills necessary for success in the aerospace industry.

“Leadership development is crucial for fostering a strong, capable management team that can drive the company forward,” Whitcraft said. “The training provided has equipped our leaders with strategic thinking, decision-making, and people management skills, which are essential for guiding their teams and achieving our business objectives.”

Invaluable Partnership

Whitcraft noted that working with ECC’s CWD for customized training funds allows local employees to develop skills tailored to their needs.

“Partnerships with ECC’s Center for Workforce Development are invaluable as they provide access to high-quality, customized training programs that meet the specific needs of our company,” she added. “These collaborations also support the local workforce by enhancing their skills, making them more employable, and contributing to the economic growth of the region.”

Lacey Oswald, with WEG Transformers USA, explained that the Washington-based manufacturer has used the funds to enhance technical abilities, gain industry-specific certifications, and improve soft skills such as communication and teamwork. These targeted efforts have led to increased productivity, better employee retention, and greater overall competitiveness.

“Our company has significantly benefited from the Missouri One Start program through tailored training solutions that address our specific workforce needs,” she said. “This has led to increased productivity, improved employee retention, and enhanced overall competitiveness in our industry.”

The College’s CWD plays a key role in connecting local businesses with the resources and training they need to thrive. By leveraging Missouri One Start funding, ECC ensures that area manufacturers can continue to innovate and lead in their industries while creating opportunities for employees to grow professionally.

To learn more about CWD industry training and consulting, visit www.eastcentral.edu/cwd/.

Fall Writing Contest Winners

December 18, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

The East Central College English and Humanities Department has announced the winners of this fall’s Fiction and Creative Non-Fiction Writing Contest.

“Stories, whether they are true or not, can be a kind of nourishment when life looks like a lonely trail,” said Josh Stroup, Assistant Professor and English Department Chair. “The stories that our students shared with us kept our judges full, and we hope to share this bounty with you all in the Spring 2025 edition of the Literary and Art Review.”

The department encourages readers to recognize these students for their dedication to crafting thoughtful and compelling work. While many stories were submitted—and all had something unique to offer—the winners are:

Fiction Winners

First Place — Lauren Hoey’s “Night Shift” — $100
Second Place — Hope Bratch’s “The Classic Chevrolet” — $50
Third Place — Mary Misener’s “The Kingdom of Ozymandias” — $25

Creative Non-Fiction Winners

First Place — Nicole Pope’s “Expanding Limitations” — $100
Second Place — Madeline Johnsen’s “Big Bad Love: Love Drives Purpose” — $50
Third Place — Kaylee Wonder’s “The Twins” — $25

The department extends its gratitude to the contest judges: John Hardecke, Assistant Professor; Linda Barro, Associate Professor; Dr. Aurelia VonTress, Instructor; and Dr. Kami Hancock, instructor.

Additional opportunities to showcase student creativity are on the horizon. The department will announce details for the upcoming Poetry and Research Writing Contests this spring.

ECC Rolla Nursing Students Honored at Pinning Ceremony

December 16, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Three East Central College Rolla graduates from the LPN to RN Bridge program were honored for their exceptional performance in clinical settings and academics.
Morgan Buffington, Savannah Gregory, and Tabitha Martin received recognition on Dec. 10 during the program’s pinning ceremony, which celebrates licensed practical nurses who continued their education to become registered nurses.

This year’s guest speaker was Leslie Crabtree, Clinical Nurse Educator at Mercy Hospital Washington and a Class of 2022 ECC LPN-to-RN graduate.
The ECC Rolla LPN to RN Bridge Class of 2024 includes Priscilla Brandhorst, Kimberly Bridgeman, Morgan Buffington, Savannah Gregory, Caitlin Hughes, Faith Kelley, Tabitha Martin, Samantha Pointer, and Carley Tritch.
Awards of Excellence
As part of the ceremony, graduates were recognized for their outstanding achievements in clinical and academic settings.
• Savannah Gregory received the ECC Outstanding Nursing Student Award, showcasing her commitment, adaptability, and integrity. Savannah has been described as highly organized and determined, excelling in clinical settings and seeking unique learning opportunities. Her preceptor noted that she is a “phenomenal addition” to the nursing profession.

• Tabitha Martin was honored with the Mercy Hospital Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award. Tabitha’s quiet focus and compassionate care have left a lasting impression on clinical staff. Her ability to prioritize patient-centered care with confidence and organizational skill distinguishes her as a future asset to any nursing team.
• Morgan Buffington was recognized with the Phelps Health Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award. Morgan’s dedication to quality, compassionate care and her willingness to embrace challenges were celebrated. Her preceptor described her as a “good team player” who skillfully translates knowledge into practice.

Biologist Raenhard Wesselschmidt and students in biology lab

Biology Students Gain Hands-On Experience in Wildlife Conservation

December 13, 2024 | Alumni Spotlight Campus News

East Central College students are taking their biology studies to new heights through hands-on learning opportunities—made possible by resources just steps away from campus.

As an official Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) collection site, ECC has partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to support white-tailed deer testing, giving students a front-row seat to real-world conservation efforts.

Biology instructor showing students deer head

For the past two deer seasons, ECC has served as a drop-off location where hunters can leave harvested deer heads for free CWD testing. Samples collected are sent to testing facilities, including the University of Missouri-Columbia, with results available online within weeks.

This year, Principles of Biology I and II students from Dr. Parvadha Acosta’s classes joined a critical wildlife monitoring project under the guidance of Kevin Dixon—ECC biology associate professor, experienced MDC volunteer, and avid deer hunter.

During three sessions so far, students have participated at varying levels, from observing the process to receiving hands-on guidance. Students involved include Ethan Agren, Alyvia Helm, Katelyn Temples, Addison Imhof, Trinity Morgan, Lily Purschke, and Adam Stevens. Instructor Dr. Clarissa Brown also took part in a testing session.

MDC biologist and ECC alumnus Raenhard Wesselschmidt introduced students to the impacts of CWD and demonstrated essential techniques, such as lymph node extraction, estimating deer age based on tooth growth and wear, and completing lab submission documentation.

Under his supervision, students practiced these techniques, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. Together, Wesselschmidt, Dixon, and the students processed 17 deer during one session. With deer hunting season running through January 15, students will have additional opportunities to participate before the 2024-2025 season concludes.

This partnership highlights ECC’s dedication to providing students with unique, experiential learning opportunities that connect classroom concepts to real-world challenges.

ECC students can earn an Associate of Arts degree in Biology and transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue careers in wildlife conservation, environmental science, zoology, public health, genetic research, ecology, biomedical research, and science education.

Learn more about ECC’s Biology pathway at www.eastcentral.edu/science/biology/.

Ellen Aramburu, Elisha Chaney, Dr. Robyn Walter, and Jon Noelker gather at the Missouri Community College Association's 60th Anniversary event with MCCA Administrative/Professional Award.

ECC Employees are MCCA Award Finalists

December 2, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College faculty and staff members were recently named finalists for Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) awards. The recognition highlights their dedication to students, excellence in their fields, and contributions to the ECC community.

Aramburu Nominated for Excellence in Teaching

Ellen Aramburu, assistant professor of Spanish, was named a finalist for the MCCA Excellence in Teaching Award. She was recognized for her innovative approach to language instruction, fostering a dynamic and supportive classroom environment that encourages students to embrace the challenges of learning a new language. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Aramburu implemented advanced online learning tools to ensure student success. She also led ECC’s Global Education efforts, organizing events such as International Education Week and International Day to bring cultural insight to campus.

Noelker Recognized for Classified Staff Achievement

Jon Noelker, a Learning Center specialist and longtime adjunct faculty member, was a finalist for the MCCA Classified Staff Achievement Award. With more than 30 years of service to students, Noelker is known for his tireless commitment to academic success. He has tutored hundreds of students in math, science, and other subjects, even taking additional courses to better meet student needs. Noelker also played a vital role in ECC’s Summer Bridge program, which helps students prepare for college-level coursework.

Chaney Honored as Outstanding Adjunct Finalist

Elisha Chaney, an adjunct nursing instructor, was a finalist for the MCCA Outstanding Adjunct Award. Chaney was celebrated for her high standards and unwavering support of her students. She excels as both a classroom and clinical educator, balancing the rigor of nursing education with individualized assistance to help students succeed. Chaney’s positivity and flexibility have made her an integral part of ECC’s Nursing program.

Illustrated graphic of ECC campus parking lots.

Parking Lot Closures Near Hansen Hall

November 30, 2024 | Campus News

Due to a water main repair to take place on Monday, Dec. 2, Parking Lots E and F, located behind Hansen Hall on the Union campus, will be closed when students return from Thanksgiving break. The lots are expected to reopen on Tuesday, Dec. 3.

These lots are situated on the southwestern side of campus between Hansen Hall and the Union Police Substation and College maintenance building.

Students and visitors accessing Hansen Hall are advised to use Parking Lots G, H, I, J, K, and L. Those visiting Buescher Hall should utilize Parking Lot D.

For a detailed view of parking lot locations and campus layout, please refer to the East Central College campus map below.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding as we work to improve campus facilities.