jackson college annual report 2014

Jackson College’s Glen and Phyllis Walker Clock Tower stands in the middle of Jackson

Central Campus. It was installed in 2005 thanks to a generous donation from the Walkers’

daughters, alumni Jacqueline Walker and Patricia (Walker) Fenchuk, and other generous

donors. The College was something the whole family had in common: Phyllis Walker worked

at the College as a secretary in the purchasing department, Glen Walker had taken classes as

an adult and attended many Potter Center performances, and both daughters got their start

at the College before continuing on to complete their bachelor’s degree, Patricia at Central

Michigan University and Jacqueline at Michigan State University. Glen Walker had a lifelong

love of clocks and timepieces, so the clock tower is a fitting tribute to the Walkers’ work

and sacrifice to ensure their daughters could go to college. In addition to the clock faces, it

features carillon bells that chime on the hour, and more than 200 melodies for special events.

It can also be used as a public address system in case of emergency.

2 l JACKSON COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT 2014

The year 2014 witnessed continued change and advancement at Jackson College. New degree programs, new educational offerings and enhanced community outreach highlighted the year.

The College was granted authority to offer its first-ever bachelor’s degree, the Bachelor of Science in Energy Systems Management, which will prepare students for leadership careers in today’s energy industry. Students now have another opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree close to home, in an industry so important to the Jackson County area. I am grateful to Consumers Energy for their guidance and help in the curricular development of this program.

The year also saw the opening of the Jackson Preparatory and Early College, (JPEC), on campus. JPEC is a new and innovative public school that offers students in grades six through 13 the opportunity to earn a STEM-focused (i.e., Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) high school diploma and an associate degree at no cost. This first year, the school is leasing space in the College’s Justin Whiting Hall, while the JPEC Board of Directors’ plans are still in the works to build a new facility to house grades six through eight.

With continued demand for student housing, the College started construction on a third student housing unit on campus, Campus View 3. This will be a four-story unit with 202 beds, including 200 for students and two manager suites. This housing is being built in partnership with Student Suites, Inc. and is funded entirely by investors, with the exception of the furniture and the technology. CV3 is projected to be completed by August, in time for fall semester student move-in.

As well all know, the Department of Corrections is another major employer in the Jackson area. Jackson College provided leadership statewide in the development of a Corrections Officers Training Program on the Central Campus, with 120 successful graduates completing the program. We anticipate serving nearly 1,000 students over the course of the next year. Corrections officers are well-paying jobs that are in high demand. We appreciate the support and partnership of MDOC Director Dan Heins, and Deputy Director Randy Treacher, on this initiative.

Other highlights from the year include two successful community events geared toward the young people of our community. The College launched its first annual Easter Egg Hunt and Halloween Spooktacular events. We look forward to connecting even more with our younger community and welcoming them to the College campus for fun events like these!

Unfortunately, the year also included a few low spots that included budget shortfalls which resulted in a few employee layoffs, a difficult challenge for all. However, with careful budgeting for the future, the College’s finances are on track. The College continues to explore new areas and new markets to help increase our student base by improving access, while also working diligently to assist students with their studies leading to completion of a credential. Jackson College has also revamped its admissions staff and strategies to boost recruiting efforts.

In addition to the new bachelor’s degree, many new academic programs have been launched to help meet the needs of today’s marketplace and offer opportunity for students. New programs include advanced manufacturing, cyber security, allied health general studies and energy systems technology, and others are on the way, including agriculture management and dental hygiene.

At Jackson College, we remain diligent as we explore today’s changing educational landscape. We work to update our programs and offerings to faithfully serve our students and community. While the times do change quickly, our commitment to our community, our students and their success hasn’t changed.

Let me invite you to take a few minutes to look over this past year in our 2013-14 annual report.

Thank you,

Dr. Daniel J. Phelan, President

JACKSON COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT 2014 l 3

q Culinary arts gains program accreditation

Jackson College’s culinary arts and hospitality management program gained accreditation in 2014 from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

The ACBSP offered specialized accreditation for educational programs supporting, celebrating and rewarding teaching excellence. Jackson College began offering the culinary arts program in 2009 at the JC @ LISD TECH campus, and in Jackson at the Jackson Area Career Center in 2011. The College offers a full associate degree in culinary arts and hospitality management program, as well as certificate, concentration and skill set options that enable students to start work right away while they continue toward their full degree.

“With this accreditation, the program won’t be assessed by just us but also by an outside third party,” said Jeremy Frew, dean of occupational education. “It gives strength to the program, because it’s not just us looking for quality, they (ACBSP) are also reviewing and looking at the program.”

The program will be assessed every three years to maintain accreditation. JC’s accounting and business programs are also accredited by the ACBSP.

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JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE

q Career Jump Start focuses on today’s training opportunities

Jackson College partnered with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and community colleges around the state to promote in-demand career training opportunities to Michigan high school students, in the Career Jump Start program.

Career Jump Start was designed to address the talent gap facing Michigan employers by promoting high-demand careers to students. Many employers are searching for skilled workers in what are called middle skill jobs – those that require some education beyond high school, usually up to or including a two-year associate degree, but not a bachelor’s degree. Middle skill jobs may include allied health care support, skilled trades and apprenticeships (such as electricians), computer technology, manufacturing and more – many programs available at the community college. They comprise about half of all U.S. jobs.

Jackson College and community colleges in 10 regions around the state house “career liaison specialists” who provide resources to high school counselors, administrators, parents and teachers about post-high school training programs that will prepare students for in-demand occupations.


JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

q Jackson native returns to share inspiring story of success at MLK event

Jackson College and community members celebrated the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in January when Jackson native David Holmes shared his story of hope, courage and perseverance with a message entitled “Achieve Your Dream.”

Through a dedicated mother, determination and discipline, Holmes overcame the challenges and temptations of inner city life to achieve high academic success and become an all-state basketball star. He went on to college and law school, graduating from Thurgood Marshall Law School in 2004. Success followed him into the law profession as he quickly became partner in the Houston, Texas law firm, Smith, Renfro, Goins, and Holmes P.C.

Receiving the 2014 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Medal of Service award was alumnus Henry N. Grayson, retired warden for the Michigan Department of Corrections. Grayson has had a distinguished professional career and demonstrated longstanding service to the Jackson community. Grayson has served the Jackson County NAACP, Noon Rotary Club, United Way Board of Directors and United Way Financial Committee, Ella Sharp Museum Board of Directors, Family Services and Children’s Aid, and Jackson Arts and Technology Academy board.

q ABIG students see another side of Florida over spring break

Students involved in Jackson College’s Alternative Breaks Interest Group, or ABIG, traveled to Florida over spring break, but not to the usual vacation spots!

Eleven students traveled to southern Florida to work in the Biscayne National Park and the Everglades National Park. The Alternative Breaks program provides students with an immersive community service experience that ultimately encourages them to think about social issues and the world around them. ABIG students stayed in a hostel and divided the week serving at each location. Students complete a one-credit course each fall and a two-credit course each winter, Service Exploration and Social Issues, as part of ABIG.

For many students, the service trip is a whole new experience.

Student Brittany Love, from Lansing, enjoys helping others. “Volunteering is something I have always enjoyed due to the feeling that you know you made a difference in someone else’s life,” Love said. “I was interested in joining ABIG for the chance to meet new people and volunteer alongside them in a new community to make a difference. Not only do I get to make a difference in Jackson, but in another state as well.”

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JC Board Chairman Samuel R. Barnes, MLK Keynotespeaker David Holmes, MLK Medal of Service winnerHenry N. Grayson and JC Board Trustee Sheila Patterson at the 2014 MLK Annual Celebration.



q Smith recognized for quarter century of coaching

Congratulations to Jackson College baseball coach Rick Smith, who was honored by the American Baseball Coaches Association in 2014 for “A Quarter Century of Leadership and Dedication to Baseball.”

Smith started coaching in Jackson in 2006, and previously coached baseball at St. Clair County Community College, where he compiled a winning record with 16 years as coach. He started his career as an assistant at Grand Valley State University.

In 2009, Smith was named Coach of the Year by the Michigan Community College Athletic Association, when the Jets took the Michigan Community College Athletic Association Championship.

“Coaching is a part of me, it is what I do and I love it! The players in the past 25-plus years that I have coached didn’t just stop after their last game with me; I am still coaching a lot of them through their remaining journey through life… I honestly care about their future and am touched from all the conversations I have when they become not only a past player but a true lifelong friend, a ‘Smith Alum.’ I still have the burning desire to coach and hope that desire always stays with me.”

q Students recognized for community service

Jackson College graduates Jasmine Parks, Christina Peltier, Kimberly Schippers and Abigail Sovoda were honored in April with Heart and Soul Awards from Michigan Campus Compact for commitment to their community through service.

Jasmine Parks has been active at Jackson College as a student Supplemental Instructional (SI) leader in mathematics, where she assists other students in their math classes. She was involved in Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and has visited First Year Seminar courses to talk about the importance of a college degree and helpful services available at the College. She has been active as a Pen Pal with McCulloch Academy elementary students of Jackson, Junior Achievement leader, and International Conversation Buddy. She helped to welcome visiting Brazilian students to campus.

Christina Peltier, Kimberly Schippers and Abigail Sovoda were nursing students at Jackson College. They were honored for their efforts designing and implementing a Harvest Orchard Festival at the Interfaith Shelter last fall. These students designed and led therapeutic activities and provided a venue for shelter residents to interact with students and one another in a positive way, creating a diversion from the reality of the shelter and promoting psychological health. In all, these students dedicated more than 30 hours to planning, preparing, and implementing this project.

Michigan Campus Compact promotes the education and commitment of Michigan college students to be civically engaged citizens, through creating and expanding academic, co-curricular and campuswide opportunities for community service, service-learning and civic engagement.

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(At top, L to R) Abigail Sovoda, Kimberly Schippers,Professor Marina Martinez-Kratz and Christina Peltier. (Below) Jasmine Parks


q Provost Rebekah Woods recognized for leadership

Jackson College Provost, Dr. Rebekah Woods, was honored in April with the 2013 John and Suanne Roueche Excellence Award from the League for Innovation in the Community College.

“It is humbling,” said Woods, “to be recognized for work you love doing. Every day I am inspired and motivated by the work we do, the colleagues I have the pleasure of working with, and the students we are working for – knowing that we’re making a difference in the lives of our students and our community.”

The League established the Excellence Awards in 2012 to celebrate outstanding contributions and leadership by community college faculty and staff in higher education. The Excellence Awards are named for John E. and Suanne D. Roueche, leaders in the community college field and early proponents of the idea that teachers have major responsibility for students’ performance in the classroom.

Woods has more than 15 years of experience in higher education administration, preceded by a successful law career in the public service arena. She is active in her community currently serving as a member of the Women’s Leadership Council for the United Way, 100+ Women Who Care, and a member of the Post-Secondary Success Action Team with Cradle2Career.

q First Annual JC Easter Egg Hunt

Jackson College welcomed more than 750 children and a total of more than 2,000 guests to Central Campus in April for the First Annual Jackson College Community Easter Egg Hunt! Children enjoyed an egg hunt for candy and prizes, as well as inflatable games, fire truck and free pictures with the Easter bunny!

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q Graduates celebrate commencement

Jackson College celebrated commencement exercises in April for the nearly 700 students eligible to graduate! Students who complete their graduation requirements in fall, winter or spring were eligible to graduate.

The program included comments from President Dr. Daniel J. Phelan, presentation of the Dr. Ethelene Jones Crockett Distinguished Alumni Award to Dr. George E. Potter, the Distinguished Service Award presented posthumously to Karen Dunigan, and comments from class representative, graduate Constance Shepherd. Shepherd, who received her Associate in Applied Science and Certificate in Medical Assistant, overcame cancer to return to college as an adult to pursue a new degree and career. She was hired by a local practice and passed her national certification exam before finishing her final semester.

Dr. Ethelene Jones Crockett Distinguished Alumni Award recipient Dr. George E. Potter is a local attorney, Jackson Junior College alumnus and longtime member of the College’s Board of Trustees. Potter stepped down from the board in 2006 after serving 44 years, including 24 as chair, longer than any other community college trustee in the nation. Today Potter is a Trustee Emeritus with Jackson College and Director Emeritus with the Jackson College Foundation. Included among his many honors are the 2007 Distinguished Service Award from Jackson College, the Association of Community College Trustees M. Dale Ensign Community Award in 1974 as the nation’s most outstanding trustee, and the American Association of Community Colleges’ first Trustee Leadership Award in 1984. He also received the Jackson Jaycees Outstanding Young Man Award in 1967.

Former Jackson mayor Karen F. Dunigan, recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, passed away following a battle with cancer shortly before the commencement ceremony. She was regional vice president of community relations for Howard Hanna Real Estate Services and was a real estate agent in the Jackson area for 34 years. Community service had long been important to her, and in 2006, seeking a new direction for fundraising projects, she founded the first 100+ Women Who Care. The organization has contributed more than $475,000 to local charities since 2006 and there are new chapters throughout the United States.



q Jackson College students selected for All-Michigan Academic Team

Jackson College congratulates students Carrie Timmerman and Steven Wood on their selection for the 2014 All-Michigan Academic Team, honored by Phi Theta Kappa.

Students are selected for the All-Michigan Academic Team based on academic achievement, community service involvement and leadership accomplishment. The State Academic Teams are a division of the Academic All-American Team for Community, Technical and Junior College Students, an international program sponsored annually by Phi Theta Kappa, USA TODAY and the American Association for Community Colleges.

Carrie Timmerman, of Clayton, worked 14 years as an insurance agent when she felt it was time for a career change. She enrolled at Jackson College and is completing her associate degree in accounting. Timmerman is helpful to those around her, tutoring students for many of the classes she has taken, and working as a supplemental instruction (SI) leader in mathematics, helping other students find success. She has participated in the College’s SI and Tutor Conference, which welcomes SI leaders, tutors and faculty from across the state to campus. She is also active in her church.

Steven Wood of Jackson returned to college through Michigan’s No Worker Left Behind program after working in the book manufacturing industry. He completed his associate degree in business administration and planned to transfer to Siena Heights University to earn a bachelor’s degree in professional communications. He currently operates a home woodworking business, and his goal is to be self-employed. Wood is currently president of JC’s Alpha Rho Lambda chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, and for two previous years was the vice president of leadership. He’s promoted membership, updated Michigan college and university PTK scholarship information, and served as lead writer for two years in the Honors in College Project Hallmarks.

q Kelly Williams honored for community service

Kelly Williams, assistant director of multicultural affairs at Jackson College, was recognized by the Jackson Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. with the Special Recognition of the Year honor.

Williams joined the staff at JC in 2013, and previously worked as a health educator in a school-based health center at Northeast Elementary. A graduate of Jackson College and Spring Arbor University, where she majored in sociology and minored in psychology, her first job included working with youth at Starr Commonwealth School in Albion, and found working with young people was something she really wanted to continue. She worked with Starr Commonwealth for three years, then took a position with the Student Assistance Program through a four-county Substance Abuse Prevention Agency, providing training to school staff and others on substance abuse and behavioral issues. She was there for four years, and then worked as a health educator through a grant-funded program to deter teen pregnancy rates, where she worked three years. After that, she went to work as a health educator in the school-based health center.

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q Gamel honored for outstanding teaching

Amy Leighton Gamel loves motivating students to accomplish what they think is out of reach. For her excellence in teaching, Gamel is the 2014 J. Ward Preston Outstanding Faculty Award winner. Gamel has taught full-time at JC since 2010, and taught as an adjunct instructor nine years prior. Before JC, she taught elementary school at Jackson Public and Vandercook Lake schools. “I was overwhelmed to hear about the award! It is an honor. I am grateful to be part of such a respected, talented group of colleagues, both present and past faculty who have received the award,” Gamel said.

Gamel teaches college reading for students at Jackson College, and improving students’ reading ability is a focus of her efforts with both students and teaching faculty. She has worked with other faculty in an effort to teach reading skills across the many subject areas. With the Reading Apprenticeship Mentoring Program and the Faculty Inquiry Reading Meetings, Gamel reaches out to faculty and students to teach strategies that will embed reading skills in different subject areas, such as math, sciences, or health occupations. Gamel also helped organize the College’s student groups the Men of Merit and Sisters of Strength, designed primarily for African-American men and women, to help them connect and persist in College.

q JC Foundation president recognized for leadership

Jason Valente, president of the Jackson College Foundation, wants to help JC students find success at each stage of their educational journey. For his leadership and guidance, Valente received the 2014 Outstanding Administrator Award. The JC Foundation and Office of Advancement is the fund-raising and legislative affairs arm of the college, working with donors, alumni and friends to support student scholarships and College initiatives. Valente provides leadership over the Foundation, as well as the W.J. Maher Campus.

“It was completely unexpected,” Valente said. “I look at the work the other executives do and feel like they are more deserving than I am. If anything, I think it is recognition of the great work the Foundation board and staff are doing to leverage resources on behalf of students. The innovative projects we have engaged in would not be possible without visionary board leadership.”

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q Taylor honored with outstanding support staff award

Lisa Taylor enjoys helping students and co-workers with technology needs at Jackson College. For her efforts working in the College’s Information Technology department, Taylor is the 2014 Outstanding Support Staff Award winner. Taylor has worked at Jackson College for 19 years and is currently the core technologies services coordinator, team lead. In this capacity, she is responsible for computer and technology purchases and deployment across the College, software purchases and deployment, managing key labor resources for the help desk, servers, telephone and audio-visual systems. She helps students and fellow employees with computer issues, and communicates to customers about college wide technology projects and services.

“I enjoy working with my co-workers, working in teams and problem-solving with them and coming up with solutions,” Taylor said. “I enjoy the changing technology, and the opportunity to manage large-scale technology projects, for example, rolling out a new operating system like Windows® 8 across campus. I enjoy the variety. Every day is something different.”

q Love enjoys helping students learn

Instructor Gedy Love began her career teaching middle school students in Flint, and now in her retirement is teaching college students at Jackson College for one reason: she loves to teach! For her superior teaching abilities, Love received the 2014 Outstanding Adjunct Instructor Award. She has taught a variety of courses at Jackson College, including technical communications, developmental psychology, introduction to psychology, education and early childhood, math, basic writing courses, stress management and wellness.

“I enjoy the students, we just have such a great connection,” Love said. “I respect them, and they respect me. I just give them everything I can.” Knowing what students really need and can benefit from, even if it goes beyond the textbook lesson, is important to Love. For instance, in her technical writing courses, she gives students tips she wishes she would have known earlier. She often finds students want to learn proper English grammar and proper business and social etiquette, such as knowing which fork or spoon to eat with at a business or formal dinner. Other times, they may role play job interviews to help prepare students for their next steps. “I was very pleasantly surprised with the award. It was an honor to be nominated,” Love said. “It is by far a joy for me to teach at Jackson College.”

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q Nursing student receives George Potter Outstanding Student Award

Jackson College student Joy Gebhardt has dreamed about becoming a nurse her whole life. She’s now pursuing her dream, and had to overcome significant personal challenges to stay the course.

For her academic excellence and service to others, Gebhardt was the 2014 George E. Potter Outstanding Student Award winner. Gebhardt is in the second year of the registered nursing program. “It is very humbling to be honored. I was very surprised and excited to learn about the award,” Gebhardt said. As a single mother returning to college, she chose Jackson College because she thought it would be the most affordable and convenient. Scholarships have helped with the cost of her education, for which she is very grateful.

Gebhardt is an excellent student academically, and has also given back to her community through service. She was the opening speaker for the Grass Lake Relay for Life following her son’s passing, and participated on a team to help raise money for cancer research. She is active with the Aware, Inc. Shelter, where she is a volunteer on-call advocate for victims of sexual assault. She has volunteered to go out to speak to schools about domestic violence and dating violence awareness, and also volunteers for the program Girls on the Run, geared to help build confidence and self-esteem in young girls. In the past, she traveled to New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina as part of a relief effort, where she helped cooked meals for hundreds who were displaced by the storm.

q Stanton Foundation establishes scholarship to help young adults from foster care systemGrowing up in the foster care system may not be easy, but Jackson’s Stanton Foundation wants to help young adults get a great start in higher education by creating the Stanton Foundation Educational Scholarship at Jackson College.

The Stanton Foundation Educational Scholarship will provide full tuition, room and board for one student who was a non-adopted foster child and is now pursuing their education at Jackson College. “I want to leave the world a better place than I found it. I believe there is no better way to do this than to stimulate young minds,” said David Stanton of Stanton & Associates Inc., president of the Stanton Foundation. Stanton & Associates, Inc. is a franchisee of Wendy’s and Biggby Coffee restaurants. Companywide, Wendy’s community service is largely focused on children, on their potential and on helping them develop that potential into the realization off their dreams. “I hope the people I help will go forward themselves to stimulate people’s minds in the future.”

Students must attend full-time and maintain a 3.0 grade point average (GPA). For more information, call the Foundation office at 517.787.0800.

“The Jackson College Foundation is grateful to the Stanton Foundation for their generosity in funding this important scholarship. This scholarship supports a population of students often overlooked and provides an opportunity for year-round housing, room and board, and tuition for the young adult in the foster care system,” said Jason Valente, Jackson College Foundation president.

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Cross CountryAhron Gunn, Brownstown, All Region XII 2nd Team, All-MCCAAsierra Melling, Hanover, All Region XII 2nd Team, All-MCCAA

WoMen’s soCCerK’sha Conquest, Utica, All-Region XII Team 1st Team, MCCAA All-Freshman Team, All-MCCAA TeamDaniel Lora, of the Dominican Republic, All-Region XII 2nd Team, All-MCCAA 1st Team, MCCAA All-Freshman Teamnatalie tappen, Romeo, All-Region XII 2nd Team, All -MCCAAMarie rodgers, Stockbridge, All-MCCAA Honorable Mention

VoLLeybALLMaycee brigham, Concord, All-Western Conference 2nd Teamsyndey Martines, Concord, All-Western Conference 2nd TeamPaige Ward, Homer, All-Western Conference 2nd Team

Men’s bAsKetbALLKyle Godfrey, Jonesville, All-Western Conference Honorable MentionJairen Hunt, Grand Rapids, All-Western Conference 3rd TeamAlex Potter, Jackson, All-Western Conference Honorable Mention

WoMen’s bAsKetbALLJessica ritchey, Potterville, All-Western Conference 3rd Teamteqwa’zha terry, Pontiac, All-Western Conference Honorable MentionMorgan West, Potterville, All-Western Conference 3rd Team

Men’s GoLfCharlie Holst, Jackson, All-Region XII Team 1st Team, Region XII All-Tournament Team, Western Conference All-Freshman Team, NJCAA National Tournament Individual Qualifierryan Hunt, Mason, Western Conference All- Freshman Team

Jacob Malcagni, Eaton Rapids, All-Western Conference 1st Team, Western Conference All-Freshman Team

Men’s bAsebALLConnor Alexander, Jackson, All-MCCAA Honorable Mentionbrad Allen, Manchester, All-MCCAA Honorable MentionCaleb baragar, Jenison, 1st Team All-NJCAA Region XII and 1st Team All-MCCAACole Knaup, Brooklyn, All-MCCAA Honorable Mentiontodd Phelps, Detroit, NJCAA Region XII All- Tournament Team, 2nd Team All-MCCAAAustin Plasterer, Fort Wayne, Ind., 3rd Team All-MCCAAtyler reed, Brooklyn, 1st Team All-NJCAA Region XII and 1st Team All-MCCAA, MCCAA All-Freshman TeamAustin shepherd, Vicksburg, All-MCCAA Honorable Mention

WoMen’s softbALLAndi Dragonetti, Jackson, All-Region XII 1st Team, All-MCCAA Team, and 1st Team All-Western ConferenceKellyn Herendeen, Grass Lake, Honorable Mention All-Western ConferenceKyndle Wolfinger, Grass Lake, softball, 2nd Team All-Western Conference, All-Freshman Team

q Jets athletes shine throughout year



q Juneteenth Community Celebration welcomes Motown sounds of Serieux

Jackson College again hosted a Juneteenth Community Celebration with a free concert in downtown Jackson. Visitors enjoyed the sounds of the Serieux Motown Review (pronounced “Serious”) at this free community event hosted by the Jackson College Office of Multicultural Affairs. Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration of freedom for African-Americans. Originally celebrated on June 19, it commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas and originated in Galveston in 1865. The observance of Juneteenth as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. Today, Juneteenth commemorates African-American freedom and emphasizes achievement.

q New bachelor’s degree approved, first students enroll

Students may prepare for careers in the energy and utility industry with the College’s first-ever bachelor’s degree program, the Bachelor of Science in Energy Systems Management, approved in 2014 by the Higher Learning Commission. The new bachelor’s degree will be a four-year program providing the advanced technical, interpersonal and managerial skills necessary to embark on a professional career in the energy industry.

College faculty and administration worked with and gained input from local utilities in designing the new programs. The College also launched a new associate degree in energy systems technology that will allow students to enter the field of energy production as entry-level technicians in environments like a power plant. The bachelor’s degree program will give technicians the necessary skills in project management, communications, business and decision making to be promotable to supervisory and management positions. With Consumers Energy located nearby, many jobs should be available close to home. Michigan utility companies – like many career fields today – expect to see a high turnover from retirements in the next few years, prompting many job openings.

“I am thankful for the work of Consumers Energy staff in helping to advance this new Bachelor of Science in Energy Systems Management,” Dr. Daniel J. Phelan, JC president said. “Our partnership with local industry is central to our success as we seek to meet the current and emerging needs of our employing community.”

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JC Advisor Joyce Dunbar (far left) with Dean of Arts & Sciences Todd Butler (holding cake) and Instructor Matt Higgins (far right) with the first bachelor’s degree cohort.



q American Honors program to create affordable pathway to a top bachelor’s degree

Plans are in the works for students to earn an associate degree with honors and transfer to a top four-year university to complete a bachelor’s degree at big savings with a new honors program available in fall 2015 at Jackson College. Students in the American Honors program take rigorous classes at their community college designed to prepare them for upper-level coursework at top academic institutions. Students may apply for transfer to any four-year university, as well as a network of top schools that are particularly interested in accepting American Honors graduates. By beginning at the community college, students are able to reduce the cost of their education and graduate from the American Honors program well-positioned to receive scholarships from their four-year schools.

Future students interested in applying should visit Apply.AmericanHonors.org and e-mail [email protected] or [email protected] with questions.

q Outstanding Student Employee honoree goes above and beyond

Jackson College recognized student Raschantone (Ras) Bryan with the 2014 Outstanding Student Employee Award.

Bryan has been a student worker in the Woodrow Wilson Multicultural Center in Bert Walker Hall, a gathering place for students, with computers for school use, a meeting area, and recreation area. He has helped to monitor and assist students who come and go, done office work and filing, helped with different events around campus and visited local schools to talk about Jackson College. Bryan was very reliable and would often cover the Multicultural Office when Director Lee Hampton or Assistant Director Kelly Williams were on assignments.

“Out of all the student employees on campus, they chose me; it is an honor and a privilege,” said Bryan, who is studying criminal justice at Jackson College and plans on transferring to Siena Heights University to complete his bachelor’s degree. “I’m thankful to Jackson College for giving me the opportunity to work here, and to Lee Hampton and Kelly Williams; I can talk to them about any experience and can get any advice. It was a blessing, working in the Multicultural Center, and it bettered me as a person.”

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q Brazilian study program continues to grow

Learning about different cultures, serving others and making connections that can last a lifetime; these are just a few of the experiences that students involved in the US-Brazil Connect program enjoy.

US-Brazil Connect welcomes American students to fly to Brazil for a four-week sponsored internship in the summer. Students apply to serve as fellows with US-Brazil Connect and participate in classroom study and online tutoring of Brazilian students before embarking on their trip. In Brazil, students work with small groups of Brazilian students to improve English skills.

“It’s more like coaching rather than teaching,” said Carissa Bell, a student who traveled to Maceio, in northeast Brazil. “I’ve never had a teaching experience before, and I hate public speaking and feared it would be horrible, but it was awesome! They (the Brazilian students) were so inspired to learn, and they wanted friendship; it made coaching them really easy.”

JC was one of the founding colleges of the US-Brazil Connect program in 2012, and participation has increased each year. In 2014, they traveled to five cities — Brasilia, Cuiaba, Blumenau, Maceio and Goiania. This is a paid fellowship, and fellows receive lodging, meals and a stipend. Fellows also have time to do some sightseeing while in Brazil and get to know more about the country.

q Local manufacturers, education unite to offer JAC3 E/MC

In an effort to boost the number of well-qualified workers for local manufacturers, a new countywide Early/Middle College was launched this fall!

The Jackson Area Manufacturers Association and The Enterprise Group partnered with the Jackson Area Career Center, Jackson County Intermediate School District, and Jackson College on a manufacturing-focused education program, the Jackson Area College and Career Connection Early/Middle College (JAC3E/MC). The JAC3E/MC, will be a unique, three-year learning program that creates a pathway to postsecondary and career success for its participants, without the familiar financial struggle or strain that often accompanies college costs.

Beginning with the students’ junior year, participants will simultaneously earn their high school diploma, college credit, and a technical/career credential within three years, with no out-of-pocket tuition costs for the student or the family.

What sets the JAC3E/MC apart from similar Middle College programs is the addition of a sponsoring local business organization; students are “triple-enrolled,” continuing courses at their local high school, earning college credit toward an associate degree at Jackson College, and placed in school-to-registered apprenticeship with JAMA’s Academy for Manufacturing Careers – all while completing their high school diploma.

For more information, visit www.jacc-mi.net or contact the Jackson Area Career Center at 517.768.5100.

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q Achieving the Dream awards Jackson College Leader College status

Achieving the Dream announced in September that Jackson College is a 2014 Achieving the Dream Leader College — a national designation awarded to community colleges that commit to improving student success and closing achievement gaps.

“Jackson College is honored to be recognized as an Achieving the Dream Leader College,” said Daniel J. Phelan, president of Jackson College. “This recognition validates our Total Commitment to Student Success (TCS2) initiative work. This acknowledgement will serve to strengthen our focus and resolve in helping all students succeed. We are excited about this new phase as a Leader College.”

The College’s Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) is one intervention raising the bar to better serve students who place into developmental, or Foundation Studies, writing courses. Students co-enroll in both the developmental writing course and a college-level writing course with the same instructor. This intervention has improved success rates for these students both in the developmental courses and in the college-level English course, Writing Experience 1, known as a “gateway” course that most students will need to pass.

This is one of several interventions that JC has initiated since it began working with Achieving the Dream in 2007.

q Hillsdale pilots new Welding and Manufacturing Program

The Jackson College LeTarte Center is part of a pilot program recently developed in conjunction with the Hillsdale County Community Foundation and local school districts. The WAMP (Welding and Advanced Manufacturing Program) seeks to provide high school students the opportunity to develop skills that are in-demand with current manufacturing trends. Students enrolled in the WAMP program take classes in advanced manufacturing, including Blueprint Reading, Intro to Electrical Systems, and welding courses.

WAMP is a two-year pilot program that students are able to begin in their junior year of high school. If they complete both years of the program they will receive Jackson College Skill Sets in both welding and industrial systems. They will be able to test to become certified welders, as well as test to receive ANSI Energy Industry Fundamentals certification. This program provides skills that will make students employable right out of high school. The courses in this program are also required for other degrees at Jackson College, so students may continue their education at JC and receive degrees in advanced manufacturing or energy production.

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q JPEC opens doors on JC campus

Fall 2014 saw the opening of the Jackson Preparatory and Early College, or JPEC, on the JC Central Campus.

JPEC opened with 227 students in grades 6 through 10. The school is designed to serve grades 6-12, and add another year, a “grade 13,” providing students the opportunity to not only complete their high school diploma but also a college associate degree. Grades will be added as current students advance. JPEC offers a structured, year-round schedule and mastery/competency-based learning style, in which students advance at their own pace.

JPEC is currently leasing 12 classrooms in Whiting Hall, while plans continue for a new facility to be built on the JC Central Campus for grades 6-8. High school grades would continue utilization of existing college facilities.

In November, JPEC’s first president, Michael Masters, resigned to take a leadership position at Jackson College. JPEC Board of Governors hired Scott Bogner as an interim president. Bogner brings 32 years of experience in public education, which includes eight years as superintendent, six in Grant Public Schools and two at Goodrich Area Schools. JPEC has two deans, an athletic director, and eight teaching faculty.

The Jackson College Board of Trustees voted to become the authorizing authority over JPEC in January 2013.

q College starts construction on third housing unit

The College broke ground in September on a new $10 million Campus View 3 student housing project, being built in partnership with Student Suites, Inc.

CV3 will have 202 beds in total, 200 for students and two manager suites. The facility will feature two- and four-bedroom units, and while each unit will have a mini-fridge and microwave, they will not have full kitchens as the existing Campus View housing does. There will be student study spaces throughout the building, two elevators and two laundry rooms. Plans are for construction to be completed in time for August 2015 move-in.

Student Suites oversees the design and construction of the new housing. This Campus View 3 project will be paid for by the issuing of $10 million in revenue bonds by an authority of investors to be called “The Jackson College Student Housing Authority,” a Michigan non-profit corporation, to be created by the Board of Trustees. There is no liability to the College. The building will not be owned by the College for 30 years, and then ownership will transfer back.

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q Consumers Energy donates alternative energy technologies to College

Jackson College is pleased to announce a donation from Consumers Energy for energy-related equipment totaling $27,588.

Consumers Energy has made the donation that includes alternative energy equipment -- a wind turbine, converters and solar panels. The materials come from a Consumers Energy display area that demonstrated how wind and solar energy could be converted to electricity and used to run a series of appliances. “We are powering Michigan with more energy from renewable sources all the time, and it’s important for us to help the next generation to understand the technology that’s involved,” said Tim Sparks, Consumers Energy’s vice president for energy supply operations. “We’re pleased that we could fill a need for Jackson College, helping to carry out our promise to care for the Michigan communities we serve.”

q Corrections officer training offered at JC

Students have the option to train for a career in corrections close to home with the new Michigan Corrections Officer Training Program at Jackson College, which began sessions in 2014.

Jackson College now offers Michigan Corrections Officer Training Programs four times each year. The program has had 120 successful graduates complete the program and who are now full-time employees with the Michigan Department of Corrections! Previously, workers were trained by MDOC after they were hired; now, prospective workers will complete an application with the MDOC, be interviewed, have a background check completed and go through physical testing for a corrections job. If that is successful, a certificate is issued allowing them to enroll in the training academy. Once individuals complete eight weeks of training, they begin on-the-job training at their assigned facilities. Careers in corrections vary depending on the site, with facilities throughout the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan.

For dates of upcoming sessions and how to apply, visit the web page at www.jccmi.edu/cotp, or contact Mary Jo Kennedy, 517.990.1346, or [email protected].

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q Starry, Starry Night raises funds

Guests enjoyed the tastes of Italy when Jackson College hosted the sixth annual Feast for Knowledge event, “Starry, Starry Night in Venice,” on October 17.

Proceeds from the Jackson College Foundation gala support Jackson College students and this year’s event raised just shy of $28,000. The College welcomed 140 guests to an evening with Venetian fare where individuals had the opportunity to partake in a number of private dinners held throughout the year, hosted by college friends and supporters. Guests enjoyed music while sampling decadent desserts prepared by Jackson College culinary students.

Proceeds from this event help fund student scholarships at JC, as well as benefit the Harriet Myer Student Emergency Fund. Last year, scholarships helped 298 students further their educational dreams with $340,033 in assistance. Students have shared that their scholarship funds make a significant difference to their college experience, helping them to focus on their studies.

q College marketing recognized by NCMPR

Jackson College received four awards from the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations District 3 Medallions Competition.

The Medallion Awards recognize outstanding achievement in marketing and communications at community, junior and technical colleges. Medallions for Gold, Silver and Bronze honors were presented in a variety of categories. JC marketing staff received the following awards:

• 2013 Electronic Annual Report - Gold Medallion

• High School Postcards - series of monthly postcards mailed to high school students - Gold Medallion

• Electronic Newsletter - “This Week at JC” on-campus newsletter - Silver Medallion

• “We Are Jackson College” college newsletter - Bronze Medallion

JC’s marketing office staff is comprised of: Dotty Karkheck, director; Ashley Banks, graphic & web designer; Lisa Drake, graphic designer; Marilynn Fryer, writer; and Cindy Allen, vice president of administration and human resources. NCMPR is an affiliate council of the American Association of Community Colleges. District 3 consists of colleges from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin and the Canadian province of Ontario.

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q Halloween Spooktacular welcomes children and families to campus

The College’s Halloween Spooktacular event welcomed just under 2,300 total guests and 1,075 children to a fun evening of trick-or-treating. This is another of the College’s outreach efforts to welcome more community members to campus. Though it was a cold, blustery fall evening, guests lined up in Potter Center and went around to campus buildings collecting treats and toys. There was also a fun children’s movie in the Snyder Dining Commons, with hot chocolate and popcorn available.

q Jackson College partners with Brazilian delegation for exchange opportunities

Jackson College officials finalized a partnership plan in December with the Federal Technical Institutes of Brazil, Sergipe and Alagoas, creating an exchange plan between the institutions.

Representatives from Brazil spent a week learning about the College’s curriculum, particularly STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields, meeting college faculty and students, and visiting the greater Jackson community. Officials signed a partnership agreement which allows for exchange opportunities for faculty and staff between the two Brazilian institutions and Jackson College.

In 2015, plans are for two faculty members from Brazil to visit Jackson College for the month of July for possible participation in an Instructional Skills Workshop, internship opportunities with local industry, co-teaching opportunities in JC courses, and additional faculty development. In fall 2015, Brazilian students will have an opportunity to study at JC for one semester, which may include technical instruction, internship opportunities, and English language instruction.

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Check out these new offerings at Jackson College

Advanced Manufacturing Associate in Applied science – prepare for today’s manufacturing careers, with the opportunity to concentrate in one of four areas:

• CNC/machining

• Industrial systems

• Manufacturing/design

• Welding

For students hoping to enter the workforce quickly, the College is also offering skill sets and certificates in each of these areas.

Allied Health General studies Associate in Applied science – specifically designed for those who have already earned some form of certification or licensure in an allied health profession and are looking to obtain an associate degree in order to further their education or employment opportunities. Students may focus on…

• Health management

• Science

• Psychology/Human behavior

• Entrepreneurship

Cyber security Associate in Applied science – Cyber security analysts work to ensure that an organization’s computer networks, computer systems and digital information stay safe from cyber-attacks. Program is closely related to the computer networking program.

electronic Health records skill set – Ideal for those working in the health field and looking to implement electronic health records (HER) or those looking to enter into another health-related program. Students will be eligible to sit for the Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist exam upon completion.

energy systems Management bachelor of science – prepare for a professional career in the energy and utility industry. (See related story on page 14).

energy systems technology Associate in Applied science – prepare students to be entry-level technicians in environments like a power plant.

Health Administration/Insurance specialist Associate in Applied science – prepare for careers in health care billing and insurance. Program builds on the medical coder/biller certificate, incorporating business and administrative topics.

Pharmacy Technician Certificate – prepare for positions as a pharmacy technician in a retail pharmacy or hospital. Students are prepared to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Exam for national certification.

Phlebotomy skill set – prepares students for positions as phlebotomists, who draw blood for tests, transfusions, research and blood donations, and may work in a hospital, doctor’s office, laboratory, clinic or blood donation center.

General Fund Revenues(Fiscal year ending June 30, 2014)

General Fund Expenditures(Fiscal year ending June 30, 2014)

tuItIon & fees$22,876,737

52.8%

ProPerty tAXes$4,782,538

11%

stAte suPPort$12,482,004

28.8%

otHer$2,058,396

4.8%

HousInG$1,136,733

2.6%

InstruCtIon$18,595,887

42.9%

PubLIC serVICes$943,325

2.1%

ACADeMIC suPPort$2,366,671

5.5%

stuDent serVICes$4,660,400

10.8%ADMInIstrAtIon

$6,0101,845

13.9%

PHysICAL PLAnt/oPerAtIons

$4,418,164

10.2%

trAnsfers$6,340,714

14.6%

tuItIon & fees $22,876,737 52.8

stAte suPPort $12,482,004 28.8

ProPerty tAXes $4,782,538 11.0

otHer $2,058,396 4.8

HousInG $1,136,733 2.6

AMount % of totAL

AMount % of totAL

................................................................................................................................................................................

InstruCtIon $18,595,887 42.9

ADMInIstrAtIon $6,010,845 13.9

stuDent serVICes $4,660,400 10.8

trAnsfers $6,340,714 14.6

PHysICAL PLAnt/ oPerAtIons $4,418,164 10.2

ACADeMIC suPPort $2,366,671 5.5

PubLIC serVICes $943,325 2.1


JACKSON COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT 2013 l From the President

24

Dr. Edward A. MatheinTrustee

Donna L. LakeTreasurer

Sheila A. PattersonSecretary

Samuel R. BarnesChairman

John M. CristVice Chairman

Philip E. HoffmanTrustee

Matthew R. HeinsTrustee

Dr. Daniel J. PhelanPresident

boArD of trustees

Higher Learning Commission ofthe north Central Association

of Colleges and schools30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400

Chicago, IL 60602-25041.800.621.7440 • www.ncahlc.org

jackson college annual report 2014

Documents

early college

jackson area

jackson college annual

glen walker

jackson preparatory

jackson colleges glen

jackson county area

new degree programs