Tag: East Central College

Student Achievements Recognized by Faculty, Staff

May 20, 2021 | Campus News

East Central College faculty and staff members have recognized students who have shown excellence, leadership, perseverance and success over the 2020-21 academic year.

ECC typically holds a Student Achievement Night to present awards in-person to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of students.

There was not a ceremony held this year, but ECC employees still recognized the hard work, leadership and determination of students over the school year. The students who earned the awards were given certificates of achievement and ECC tote bags.

Listed below are students who have be recognized for either academic excellence, leadership skills, perseverance or student success.

Andrea “Abby” Hribar

Alexis Kinnison

Amanda Constable

Amber Dietrich

Andrew Klemme

Andrew Shelton

Annie Page

Audrey Bandowski

Ben Harrison

Ben Schwanitz

Christopher Cureton

Christopher Saladin

Chris West

Claire Smith

Collin Immekus

Dora Bell

Emily Knoppe

Gabby Girardier

Gabrielle Campbell

Grace Affolter

Grace McKinnis

Guy Baskerville

Heather Brinker

Holden Snyder

Isaac Martin

Jennah Olimat

Jenna Meintz

Jennifer Shaw

John Buhr

Jordan Owens

Joseph McCary

Julio Gonzalez

Justin Cantu

Justin Lohmeyer

Kaitlyn Dodson

Kasey Kroeck

Kate Shelton

Kayla Kleekamp

Keegan Sewell

Kendall Tanner

Keri Bonner

Kylee Vawter

Kylie Killbreath

Lexi Harrison

Lilli-Anne Mantle

Lisa Heimos

Logan Metzen

Logan Tiefenbrunn

Lydia Remsh

Madison Barbarick

Madison Jolly

Malaina Mastin

Manny McQueen

Mario Wentz

Mason Blum

Michaela Plumb

Miguel Gonzalez

Nathan Searcy

Pierocarlo Previte

Riley Jackson

Rylee Box

Samuel Pecka

Sara Carter

Sarah Harris

Sarah Murphy

Sebastian Montowine

Shanadoah Keckler

Shania Wilson

Summer Thorp-Lancaster

Theodore Coburn

Zoe Strassner.

Adult Education Instructor Encourages Students to Persevere

January 12, 2021 | Campus News

In order to improve over time, we all share the need to move forward even when it’s difficult.

That’s according to Kathy Amsinger, an adult education instructor, who teaches her students to persevere and persist in order to reach their goals.

Amsinger teaches with the Adult Education & Literacy (AEL) program, offered through East Central College, at the Rolla and St. James class locations. She has been the instructor at these sites for over six years, and prior to that taught at Linn and Cuba.

Each student who attends AEL classes receives an individualized lesson plan.

Amsinger added that 90-95 percent of the students need help with math. She helps them “fill in the holes” of what they’ve missed.

Amsinger said she loves watching the transition that takes place in her student’s attitudes and beliefs. The tools that she gives them to build skills in math carry over to the other subjects as well.

She stresses that critical thinking and seeking out detail are essential to success in all areas, and that due to modern day technology, we tend to scan for information more than look for details.

“The good news is, you can learn,” Amsinger said.

With her years of experience, her view is that it may be scary for some adult learners to begin this journey, wondering if they’ll succeed or if they’ll face disappointment. Amsinger once had an instructor tell her, “it’s about 10 percent academics and 90 percent working on how they perceive themselves.”

Part of her mission is to encourage students to learn how to motivate themselves with positive self-talk.

She has been faced with helping students that were ready to take the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET) and didn’t believe in themselves, as well as students who were not yet ready to test and thought they could pass.

To each group, she teaches the same concept.

“How we deal with ups and downs determines our success,” Amsinger said. “It takes hard work and sweat equity; pushing through days when you want to give up.”

While many students face obstacles, Amsinger lets her students know that an excuse can turn into a habit, and that she will help them develop effective routines.

“It’s exciting to help them in this journey,” she added. “It’s all about their success —That’s why I keep doing it.”

She has witnessed many changes in the program, including the objectives the students are supposed to meet, and explains that changes have been good for the most part.

Amsinger promotes ECC and its quest to award a Transition Scholarship for a free three credit hour course to graduates of the AEL program.

“They invest in our students. Yay, East Central!” Amsinger tells her students.

Her goal is to prepare each of her students to pass the HiSET and earn their High School Equivalency certificate, then see them move on to more achievements. She inspires in her students a willingness to work hard, continue to grow and remain teachable.

“We are all the same. We are all a work in progress.”

After Four Years, Returning Student Completes Degree

December 18, 2020 | Campus News

It occurs often in life that we need some encouragement and support to help us.

That was the case for Mercedes Mangrum. East Central College sent her a text, a postcard, a letter, an e-mail, showing her the value of finishing her college degree. And she made up her mind that this 2020 fall semester would be the time to do it.

“My decision to complete this semester was solely to give myself options for future endeavors.”

Mercedes graduated from St. Clair High School in 2012, enrolled at ECC, and took classes off and on until 2016 when she paused for personal reasons.

The 26-year-old spent the last four years working and is currently an administrative assistant at a counseling facility in Creve Coeur. She needed only four classes (12 college credits) to complete the requirements for an Associate of Arts degree. She’ll have the degree at the end of the year, knowing her effort was worth it.

“As an older student, I did feel more focused and ready to complete my degree. ECC classes were affordable for me which made achieving my degree possible.”

She’ll be an ECC graduate, but she’s not stopping her education. She is considering Harris-Stowe State University for a more diverse experience and to learn more about her heritage. Her mother is Cambodian, and her father is African American.

Mercedes is one of the hundreds of students with some college credits hours from East Central College who haven’t completed their degree. Many of them could finish in one or two semesters.

Mercedes has a message to those other ECC students who are so close to completing their degree.

“Keep going, there is no failing. Keep persevering toward your goal and keep learning. I believe knowledge is power.”

East Central College has a dedicated program to help those ECC students complete their degree.

In-Person, Online and Streaming Classes at ECC this Spring

December 16, 2020 | Campus News

The spring semester at East Central College will look much like the fall semester, with a full range of class offerings and delivery methods.

According to ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer, not much has changed in course delivery from Fall to Spring, primarily because what the college has done has worked so well.

“The spring semester schedule includes classes offered in-person, online and/or streaming,” he said. “We plan to open the spring with this combination of delivery options.”

Dr. Bauer urged students to sign up as soon as possible for spring classes to ensure the classes they want will be available when they need them.

“The earlier you register, the more likely it is you can enroll in the type of classes you prefer,” he said.

The 2021 Spring semester begins Tuesday, Jan. 19. For some students, it will be their first taste of college.

“We have students who start their college education during the spring semester,” Dr. Bauer added. “That’s really just around the corner, so don’t delay.”

For more registration information, visit eastcentral.edu/admissions/ or call 636-584-6588.

In-Person Classes

Dr. Bauer explained that ECC’s in-person classes have been successful because of the safety protocols in place.

“We will continue to have the COVID protections that we have now, including a mask requirement and reduced seating in classes in order to maintain social distancing,” he said.

In addition, ECC has stations at each entrance and other areas of campus with hand sanitizer and thermometers.

Students and employees are encouraged to stay home if they are feeling ill. The college has an employee serving as a COVID-19 contact to assist students and employees with questions about procedures, and also to follow up with local health departments to assist in keeping the campus safe.

ECC Rolla Classes

Christina Ayres, Director of the ECC Rolla sites, said fall semester students were able to schedule classes based on their comfort level, around work or home obligations.

The Spring semester will be much of the same.

“For every student it was a personal decision,” Ayres said. “Our students are absolutely committed to their education.”

She noted that for some students it was practical to stay at home because of their children or due to a family illness.

“We increased our online offerings so students could take advantage of learning at home,” Ayres said. “We want to offer options so students can make the best decision based on their circumstances.”

Staying Home the Right Decision for Future Teacher

December 10, 2020 | Campus News

Before the summer ended, Grace McKinnis had her next four years planned.

The St. Francis Borgia Regional High School graduate had been accepted into her top school, Truman State University, in Kirksville, where she would study English and education.

When she combines the two, McKinnis wants to teach grammar, literature, ‘or anything English” to high school students.

But, as it did for many, the COVID-19 pandemic shifted McKinnis’ plans. About two weeks before she was to move on campus at Truman State, she questioned the decision of leaving home.

McKinnis remembers the exact moment, while at home with her mom, when she realized that it was not the time to go off to college.

“My mom looked at me and I looked at her and I said, ‘It’s not going to happen,’ “ McKinnis said.

“It was a last-minute decision,” she added. “Everything was ready to go.”

Earning a Degree

At the time, McKinnis’ sister already was a student at ECC, and she had been encouraged by high school advisors to consider attending ECC because of the incentives, such as A+ funding and scholarships.

Initially, she thought she had too many credit hours due to dual credit classes taken in high school.

But when McKinnis called ECC to talk with Paul Lampe, vice president of student services, he told her that there still were general education classes she needed.

“Initially I thought I would have too many college credits,” she said. “But instead I was told that I had enough credits to get a degree in a year.”

McKinnis is taking 15 credit hours this semester and she is enrolled in 15 credit hours next semester. Since the courses are part of CORE 42— which transfer to any public four-year school in the state — she will have an associate degree in Liberal Arts when the spring 2021 semester ends.

McKinnis added that ECC is much like any other college campus and she has been taught by great instructors.

“ECC is such a great school,” she said. “The professors really care, and they know what they are talking about.

“They want you to succeed while giving you the independence of a college student.”

Staying Home

About midway into the semester, McKinnis was diagnosed with COVID-19. She was at home, going to school remotely for 12 days.

“I definitely knew I made the right decision when I got COVID — It was nice to be close to home,” she said. “All of my instructors were great as long as I communicated with them.”

English Teacher

McKinnis has known for a while that she wants to teach English to high schoolers.

“When I was growing up I had very limited screen time,” she said. “A lot of my time was occupied by reading — I love to read, and I also have found that I am a very good at writing.”

She noted that one of her favorite classes at ECC is Early American Literature.

According to McKinnis, the decision to come to ECC has taken her a step closer to her dream career. She learned from top tier instructors and she saved money by living at home.

“Coming to ECC was a really good decision,” McKinnis added. “I really like this school, and I am saving a lot of money.”

ECC to Hold Registration Event Saturday

December 8, 2020 | Campus News

East Central College will be open Saturday, Dec. 12, to give new and prospective students a chance to enroll for the Spring 2021 semester.

The College will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for students to apply, register for classes and learn about financial opportunities, such as scholarships and grants.

Those registering for classes should bring a photo ID. It is recommended for students new to ECC to bring copies of transcripts from other schools they have attended, if transcripts are available.

New students are encouraged to apply prior to Saturday to streamline the registration process. However, it required to apply before the event.

Apply online for free at www.eastcentral.edu/admissions/. Class listings are available at the ECC homepage, www.eastcentral.edu, under the “Class Schedule” tab.

The college is offering in-person, online and remote option for the Spring 2021. Classes begin Jan. 19.

New students can enroll up to the date that classes begin, but they are encouraged to enroll early to ensure they get the classes they want and how they want them delivered.

For more information, people may call the ECC admissions office at 636-584-6588.

Dr. Bauer: “Yes” to Snow Days

December 4, 2020 | Campus News

East Central College President Dr. Jon Bauer addressed faculty, students, and staff Friday to state there still will be snow days at the college, even though working and learning remotely has become easier.

The following is Dr. Bauer’s message and a reminder to sign up for ECC’s alert notification system:

Will we have snow days? Yes!

As winter weather arrives, we need to prepare for those days when snow and ice make getting out dangerous. Some institutions have elected to extend their remote learning to what would otherwise be a snow day. I understand those decisions and know we have learned how to work and learn remotely over the past several months.

While I’m confident we could do that effectively if needed on snowy days this winter, we have also learned over many, many years that we can make up the time lost to snow. We also know that a snow day for those with kids at home can mean another level of stress regarding child care. That problem is alleviated when we have a snow day. Finally, we know that many activities cannot simply be flipped over to Zoom or online. On days when it is unsafe to be on the roads, those classes, labs, and other activities are postponed in any event.

Work, flexibility, adaptability, and resilience are important values to model. I also understand the importance of balance, the need to unplug and un-Zoom, and the benefit provided by an unexpected day off.

So yes, we will have snow days.

As a reminder, sign up for ECC Alert to get notices regarding inclement weather. We will also use social media and St. Louis television to get the word out.

As in years past, there may be days when we utilize a late start instead of a full cancellation. Moreover, while we try to keep decisions consistent between Union and Rolla, there are occasions when the weather at the two locations is quite different. We will specific “all locations” or one, depending on circumstances.

Click here to sign up for ECC’s Alert system, Omnilert, or to check your status.

Spring Community Education Classes Start in January

November 30, 2020 | Campus News

Community members have the chance to learn archery, swing dancing, human resource management, and much more this spring through East Central College’s Community Education Enrichment courses.

“Our classes cover a wide range of personal enrichment topics from Digital Photography, to HAM radio, to ServSafe (food handling safety) and so many others,” said Pam Kaiser, program coordinator for ECC’s Community Education.

Spring courses begin in late January and are mostly located on campus in Union.

“We offer many non-credit classes for the community at very reasonable prices,” Kaiser added. “We have classes for teens to seniors throughout the semester and Summer Learning Academy for school-aged students in the summer months.”

Kaiser added that she is always looking for ideas on new classes. If community members want a certain course or to learn a specific skill, she will do her best to offer it.

To find course offering or to register for a class online visit https://www.eastcentral.edu/community/schedule/.

For more information contact Kaiser at 636-649-5803 or Pam.Kaiser@eastcentral.edu.

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/.

ECC Conducts Welding Training Session at Ziglin

November 17, 2020 | Campus News

Five employees at Ziglin Signs, Washington, wrapped up a unique on-site training session last week that was led by the East Central College Center for Workforce Development (CWD).

The four-day training focused on aluminum welding techniques. It was taught by ECC Welding Program Coordinator and instructor Bobby Bland and Cliff Cartwright, welding adjunct.

Bland explained that Ziglin representatives met with CWD to discuss options that would increase quality and production within the company’s welding department.

He added that Bland, Cartwright and five Ziglin employees met in a conference-style setting and then moved to Ziglin’s welding room floor to work

“We mapped out opportunities to increase quality and production, as well as, reduce redundancy within the welding division in the company,” Bland said. “After discussing topics, we applied the information in the welding room by demonstrating different techniques and allowing the Ziglin employees to perform them.

“This was a very exciting training session and Ziglin is an awesome company with a great team,” he added.

ECC’s welding trainers have more than 40 years of combined experience in the field.

According to Melissa Richards, CWD apprenticeship and business training program coordinator, the session with Ziglin was part of ECC’s customized training program.

Richards said the CWD customized training funds can be tailored to fit the needs of any industry.

“We offer customized training programs in welding and other technical fields, such as industrial maintenance and machining,” she said. “Not only can we fit a variety of needs for local companies, we also work to provide funding to help offset training costs to help a company’s money go further for employee development.”

To find out more about CWD customized training, call 636-649-5800 to speak with a training coordinator or welding trainer, or send an email to training@eastcentral.edu.

For more information about ECC’s CWD, visit www.eastcentral.edu/cwd/.