Summer 2007 - Wayne County Community College

updatesTechnologyvs. CriticalThinkingBy Willie R. Acosta, J.D.Executive Assistant to the Chancellorfor Legal and Labor RelationsI have increasingly become aware of the tendencyto lose sight of the goals of good critical thinking andfocus instead on the tools of analysis. We are constantlytold about “technological revolutions” and “gettingleft behind in our skills.” We usually hear this fromcomputer sales people or consultants; individuals witha vested interest in letting us know how complicatedthings are. We are buying into the technological line– hook, line, and sinker.If you have a good critical thinker with an unsophisticatedtool, he or she will utilize clear thinkingto provide a solid analytical response. Bad thinkerswith no common sense and a high level computerwith multiple packs of software, will not only doa bad job, but will obscure the bad job with hugespreadsheet, phony ratios, endless chatter about formatting,local area networks, and data set problems.The bad job will be a slow, disguised bad job! Mypoint is obvious; we must spend our time on criticalanalysis, and not on the technological tool.I will be the first to admit that I am a low-techperson. However, I am of the opinion that not only isthe “technological revolution” a media creation, butsociety in essence has not changed much in 30 years.I am talking about the essence of what we do; how weinteract, how we solve problems, how we get ahead,and how we communicate. You may choose to lookat your 2007 vehicle and point out the technologicalmarvels involved, but I look at classic cars and wonderwhat has changed about the essence of driving.You steer the same way, buy gas, avoid potholes,hassle with a dealer or mechanic, change tires with ajack, get speeding tickets, get dog hairson the back seat, lose your keys, gripeabout insurance, stop at red lights, listento the radio, or yell at jerks in traffic.Seems like 1960 to me. So what’s reallynew about driving?The same applies to critical analysis.The hard part has not changed, only theexpensive little distractions. The hardpart is predicting the future, makingassumptions about people’s behavior,creating convincing arguments, separatingfacts from exaggerated claims, andsetting priorities. The easy part is enteringevery piece of data correctly on Excelor on a PowerPoint presentation. Andthe trouble with the easy part, it makesyou feel like you are critically analyzingsomething when you are not.We have department heads that justknow that everything must be computerizedbecause somebody mightask them a question, which requiresdata. By taking this approach they arethus spared the troublesome detail of figuring outhow they might help a student and the importantfocus is lost.We live in a world in which most of us have beenled into buying high tech gadgets with absurdlyover designed capacity and speed, because we are“computerizing” everything in sight as an excusefor good, clear critical thinking and analysis. It’s astrong move that is difficult to oppose. However, byinsisting that difficult matters are thought throughcarefully prior to committing to computerization,better results will be the outcome.Distance Learning at WCCCDWCCCD strives to give students an array of educational options to preparethem for a global workplace by offering online certificate programs. Activeparticipation in developing educational opportunities for all the communitiesin Michigan and within the region is seen in the increasing number of certificateprograms being offered online. Currently, there are five online certificateprograms offered by WCCCD: Library Technician, Entrepreneurship, Hotel andRestaurant Management, Surgical Technology, and Food Safety and Sanitation.NEW ONLINE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM OFFERINGSThe chart below highlights the certificate programs and includes a brief overviewwith career potential information. All of the certificate programs areoffered online so it is possible for students to study and complete assignmentswithout leaving work or home. The level of interest in distance learning coursesand certificate programs continue to increase as evidenced by the increasedenrollment of first time and guest students to online offerings. From summer2006 to spring of 2007, enrollment by first time students has increased 132%.This growth is attributed to the presence of the various certificate programs,excellent services provided by the Distance Learning Division, and the Districtat large. In addition, there are a growing number of guest students from othercolleges taking distance learning courses.Surgical Technology Certificate(Online)Food Safety and SanitationCertificate (Online)Hotel and RestaurantManagement Certificate(Online)Entrepreneurship Certificate(Online)Library Technology Certificate(Online)The Surgical Technology Certificateis designed to enable the studentsto perform a variety of duties, aswell as provide technical support tothe surgical team in an operatingroom before, during, and aftersurgery. The surgical technologist istrained to maintain a sterile and safesurgical environment.The food service industry offerscareer opportunities across a broadspectrum of options that includeschools, hotels and restaurants,hospitals, nursing homes,extended care and assisted livingcommunities, correction facilities,casinos, resorts, and more. Whereverpeople eat in groups, there is anopportunity for a position as afoodservice manager. The FoodSafety and Sanitation Certificateis designed to train the beginningstudent, as well as those presentlyemployed and seeking advancementin the foodservice industry.The Hotel and RestaurantManagement Certificate programis a unique way for those currentlyworking in or considering a careerin hospitality to quickly andconveniently build skills whileworking toward a degree.The Entrepreneurship Certificateintroduces the student to creativeand tested ways to start and operatea small business. Innovativemarketing strategies, creativefinancing methods, and employeedevelopment skills are emphasizedin the program.The Library Technology Certificateintroduces the student to thedifferent departments, librarytypes and issues within libraryscience. The areas of serviceincluding circulation, reference, andtechnical services are all explored.This program gives students theknowledge and skill for working aslibrary paraprofessionals.Career Potential• Hospitals• Health Care FacilitiesCareer Potential• Schools • Hospitals• Hotels• Extended Care• Restaurants • CasinosCareer Potential• Hotel & RestaurantsCareer Potential• Entrepreneurial VenturesCareer Potential• Public Libraries• College Libraries• Corporate LibrariesSummer 2007 District Dimensions

Special Career Feature FocusBuilding Dental BridgesBEAUTIFUL SMILE IN A DAYThere is a need, nationwide, for serving theunderserved with good dental care and WCCCD’sDiscipline Chair of Dental Programs, Jo Ann AllenNyquist, acknowledges that by forming partnershipsand developing dental care programs. studentscan learn techniques that enrich their educationalexperiences in ways that benefit the community.Service learning activities have been a part ofthe dental hygiene curriculum since the program’sinception. As the need for dental hygiene serviceshas expanded particularly in urban centers, thedental hygiene program is committed to communitydental needs. Each graduating student participatesin 20 separate service-learning activities throughouttheir two years.The first and second year dental hygiene studentsare actively involved in service learning activities intheir two years in the program. Students participate inproviding oral hygiene education to children and adults,dental hygiene care, career education presentations atK-12 schools, health fairs, and churches throughoutthe College district.This summer, the dental hygiene students, througha partnership with the Wayne County HealthDepartment, placed fluoride varnish on children’steeth to prevent dental decay. Through anotherpartnership with Hartford Head Start, the dentalhygiene students visited all of the Hartford Centers toprovide oral hygiene education to enrolled studentsduring February, which is Children’s Dental Healthmonth. In addition, the dental hygiene students atthe dental clinic at the Northwest Campus providedenrolled Hartford Head Start children with preventivedental hygiene clinical procedures. In a widely utilizedservice to community residents, annual free dentalhygiene services to children ages 3-18 have beenprovided in February.A new project designed for Head Start and theMichigan School Readiness Program provides a freedental exam for children four years of age. Head Startenrollees are required by law to have a note from a dentistindicating that dental screening has been performed.WCCCD dental hygiene students will be participating inthe screening. Mary Waters, former state representative,says, “WCCCD has been so wonderful and I have beenworking with them for over five years. Realizing thathealth care is a major issue for many, I have chosen tofocus on oral health.” This new project will be helpfulto many families and offer opportunities for dentalhygiene students to have hands-on experiences withdental patients.interested in working as an important part of a dentalhealth team. Students learn to provide direct patientcare and participate in community programs relatedto the prevention of oral diseases and the maintenanceof oral health.Dental assisting provides students with thenecessary training to perform the duties of adental assistant, including assisting the dentist,providing patient education, performing laboratoryprocedures, exposing and processing x-rays andperforming office management tasks such as billingand scheduling. In addition, the dental assistantwho becomes licensed can provide expandedfunctions as defined by Michigan law. Studentscompleting the program are eligible to take theDental Assisting National Board Examination tobecome a Certified Dental Assistant. In addition,they are eligible to take an examination to becomea licensed Registered Dental Assistant.Following graduation from the WCCCD program,one hundred percent of the dental students have foundemployment and many pursue further training to receivea bachelor’s degree in a health field or social sciences.By offering a step-by-step approach to a careerpath, WCCCD’s dental curriculum has becomeunique in the state by being the only teachinginstitution to offer dental hygiene, dental assisting,and dental laboratory technology program.The Dental Laboratory Technology Program is the onlyeducational program of this type in the State of Michigan.The program includes one year in training and a onesemesterinternship in a local dental laboratory. Studentsfrom WCCCD, Windsor, Canada, and Nebraska will beattending the program this coming summer.The Dental Hygiene Program is designed to preparestudents to become competent oral health cliniciansand educators. It is a prominent career for individuals District Dimensions Summer 2007

Career FocusPositive feedback from students about theAssociate Degree Nursing Program curriculumrevision in 2004 is confirmation that the Collegeis on the right track. Following full approval of thecurriculum by the Michigan Board of Nursing, thefirst group graduated May 2006. All of the graduatesfrom this first cohort have taken and passed theNCLEX-RN licensure exam with exceptional scoresand are Registered Nurses (RN) in hospitals withinthe greater Detroit metropolitan area.Della McGraw Goodwin,founder of the NursingProgram.Our second cohort ofstudents graduated fromthe new curriculum inDecember 2006. Twothirdsof these studentshave passed thelicensure exam and theother third are awaitingtesting. Again, theoutcomes appear to beexcellent.this won’t hurt a bitNursing CurriculumMentoring ProgramIn Fall 2005, a Mentoring Program was introduced into the Nursing Program aimedat nursing students needing additional support. The goal of mentoring is retentionof students by reducing student attrition. Student attrition from nursing programsis a national problem and is often related to academic issues and/or changes in lifecircumstances that require students to drop out.Mentoring is a commitment by caring, concerned individuals to offer positive,supportive outreach to students in various areas of academic, vocational, personal, orsocial development. These activities include, but are not limited to: tutoring to increaseacademic performance, knowledge and understanding; role modeling to enhancesocial and ethical standing; one-on-one talk and discussions to provide a supportiveatmosphere and keep the lines of communication open and free flowing.The Nursing Program at WCCCD is known for its diverse student nursing population.In many instances, acquiring and maintaining this diverse population is difficult.However, offering a supportive, caring outreach through mentorships will help eliminatemany barriers to successful completion of the RN program.Summer 2007 District Dimensions

Special faculty Notes FeatureIn the Spotlight:WCCCD Bids Farwell to Drs.Hattie L. Johnson-Norris and Janet May DettloffDr. Hattie L. Johnson-NorrisOf all my accomplishments onlya few of which I am most proudare included here. The numberone goal when I first arrived at thecollege was to have the campus withthe highest enrollment. After nineyears at the Northwest Campus,we finally achieved that goal andmaintained it for the final twoyears of my 11 year tenure at theNorthwest Campus. Incidentally,staff and faculty of the NorthwestCampus informed me that I was thelongest sitting campus president/dean/provost of any campus at thecollege.The college established the first“One Stop Shop” RegistrationCenter at The Northwest Campus.Initially, many students madepositive comments to me regarding the Center.One additional accomplishment during my tenurewas creating a positive relationship with the surroundingcommunity. Individuals for the community oftendescribed the camps as having a warm family-likeatmosphere. To me, that was a major achievement andquite different from what I wastold when I initially arrived atthe campus.Serving as campus presidentat WCCCD was what Idescribed as my “Ministry”which I thoroughly enjoyed.Indeed I am thankful forhaving the opportunity to servethe college in this capacity.Thanks to Dr. Curtis Ivery,chancellor, members of hisCabinet, the faculty, and staffof the Northwest Campus forassisting me in achieving theseaccomplishments.Dr. Johnson-Norris has beena member of Cambridge’sWho’s Who of America’s HonorSociety for approximately eight years and was recentlyelected as one of its outstanding Professional Executivesof the Year 2007 and is included in the Honors Edition ofthe Who’s Who Registry.Tips for Working with StudentsI would describe myself as a “Servant Leader.”The number one responsibility/priority of a CampusPresident/Dean in my perception is to take care of theneeds of the students in a timely manner focusingon excellent customer service. One writer defines“good customer service” as making the individualexperience positive feelings from within.When students approached me with a concern,I asked them to put their concern or request inwriting. In that way, the students writing skillswere enhanced. Additionally, if they were angeredby the request, putting their concern in writingassisted in deescalating that anger. It also provideddocumentation and a tracking mechanism in termsof follow up and resolution of the students concern.When I was out of the office and received telephonemessages form students or perspective students,I would always attempt to return their call within24 hours. Additionally, I always attempted to keepstudents informed utilizing teachable moments whereappropriate. I always attempted to offer emotionalsupport to my students and staff and implementedwhere possible the phrase coined by my husband “Itis always encouraging to be encouraging.”Dr. Janet May DettloffDr. Janet May Dettloff started with WCCCD in 1972as a part-time biology instructor and became full-time in1974. She has served in an administrative role since 1992.“I came to the College to help students. I believed thateducation was the only way to help improve someone’slife,” said Dr. Dettloff. “I still feel that way.”When asked what has motivatedher to stay with WCCCD, Dr. Dettloffreplied, “The students are very specialto me.”The first in her family to attaina college education,and as a divorced,single motherof two sons, sheworked her waythrough college andhas always felt shecan empathize withthe challenges facedby adult students.“The adult students weredetermined to better theirlives.” She admired the couragedisplayed by her students.Dr. Dettloff has had numerousspecial moments whichhave all revolved around students.One that stands out iswhen one her students, sufferingfrom terminal cancer,brought her children to class to let them know about the importanceof education.Dr. Dettloff has been a part of the Commencement Committeesince 1982. “It is the best committee I have been on. It is themost rewarding and fun because by serving you are doingeverything for the students. The culmination of graduation isrewarding to the committeeas well as the students.”“You seldom get the chance atthe end of your career to have aculmination of your experiences.”Dr. Dettloff plans tospend more quality timewith her family afterretirement.What will you miss the most?“The people. The working together, theplanning, and sharing the joy of theplanning.”“One of the most rewarding moments iscalling the recognition students. They getso excited.”Advice to students“I got my Ph.D. as a single parent. Youcan do it. You have to sacrifice but in theend you have a feeling of satisfaction andthat you can do anything.”Advice to colleagues“As a fan of Piaget and Gagne, my adviceis fellow colleagues is to never assume thestudents know anything. For students tolearn, you have to understand their needs.It is important to start with the simplestconcept and proceed from there.”Study Tips for Students“Use index cards whenever you have sometime to wait (shopping, doctor’s officevisits). Constant small bits of study timeare better than hours.” District Dimensions Summer 2007

district notesVet TechnologyOpen HouseThe WCCCD Veterinary Technology Program holds two openhouses per year, one in April and one in November. The April 2007open house broke all records. Over 80 prospective students andfamily members attended. Participants were given an overviewof the profession and the WCCCD program. After the formalpresentation, an informal question and answer forum took place.The group then split into twosections and toured the facility.Following the tour, the ProgramDirector, Karen Hrapkiewcz,doctor of veterinary medicine(DVM) and the ProgramCoordinator, Marianne Tear,licensed veterinary technician(LVT), were available to answerquestions and provide advisingon an individual basis.IditarodFor the third year in a row, theWCCCD Veterinary TechnologyProgram was invited to participatein the pre-race program for the Iditarod sled dogs in Alaska.Every dog that runs the “last great race” must have an ECG andcomplete blood work done to prevent injury or death on the trail.Each musher can qualify up to 24 dogs; this year there were over 75mushers! The program coordinator, Marianne Tear and one luckysecond year student provided support the last week of February.WCCCD is the only Veterinary Technology Program that participatesin this internationally known event.Carol Fischer holding dog for evaluationVeterinary Technology students in sessionMarianne Tear and LionDogs in harness at the Iditarod startN e w s m a k e r s Anthony Arminiak hasbeen appointed to the Board ofDirectors for the Taylor ConservatoryFoundation. The mission of thefoundation is to enrich the lives ofour community members by creatingbeautiful public spaces, promotingthe arts and sciences, and preserving our naturalresources. WCCCD will be an educational partnerfor the Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Garden byoffering various continuing education courses. Dimensions wants to congratulate Martha J. Grier,for receiving the 2007-2008 MinorityAchiever of the Year Award from theYoung Men’s Christian Association(YMCA). This award is presented toleaders who have made a difference intheir community. Mrs. Grier certainlyqualifies since for more than 20 years,she has been WCCCD’s biggest cheerleader organizing,creating, arranging, designing, and planning manyof the events at the College that honor and celebratestudents. Dr. Stephanie Bulger has beenelected to the Board of the NationalUniversity TelecommunicationsNetwork (NUTN), an internationaldistance learning organization of adiverse mix of public and private twoyear,four-year, graduate institutions,and other organizations. The mission of the NUTN isto facilitate and promote networking, mentoring, andcollaboration among higher education institutions andeducational technology professionals. Dr. Karen Hrapkiewicz and Marianne Tearco-authored an article in the Institute for LaboratoryAnimal Research Journal. The article titled “FundamentalTraining for Individuals Involved in Care and Use ofLaboratory Animals”was published in March2007. Dr. Stephanie Bulgerand Dr. George Swan,III have been selected toserve as peer reviewersfor the Program to Evaluate andAdvance Quality (PEAQ) of TheHigher Learning Commission ofthe North Central Association ofColleges and Schools. Congratulations to art instructorJocelyn Rainey and her students from Loyola HighSchool on being selected for the June 6-12, 2007 coverstory of the Metrotimes. The story centered on aneducational trip taken by Ms. Rainey and her studentsto Paris, France which gave them the opportunity toexperience French art and culture. WeTonia Reynolds competed and presented anexhibit (along with six other presenters) for the AnnualPeople’s Choice Award at the 2007 Michigan Oral HealthConference in Lansing. Ms. Reynolds’ exhibit wonand was comprised of information describing a newpartnership between WCCCD and the Wayne CountyDepartment of Public Health. This collaboration willprovide dental hygiene students with experience in acommunity-based pediatric dental clinic and publichealth experience with high-risk populations.Summer 2007 District Dimensions

cultural Special Feature and educational eventsExhibititionat the Brownand Juanita C. FordGalleryLocal artists featured their work during the“What is Art?” exhibition.The exhibitiondisplayed at the beautiful Brown and JuanitaC. Ford Galley located on WCCCD’s DowntownCampus. The group collaboration, “What isArt?” explored different mediums used in theart world. Oil paint, charcoals, sculpture,metals, and graphics were some of the differenttypes of mixed media displayed.AmericanCity:Detroit Architecture1845-2004Exhibitions PastOther exhibitions featured at the gallery, Africa’s GloriousAchievements: An aesthetic exploration into the soul of a continentwas in December 1, 2005. World-renowned guest lecturer, Dr. NiiQuarcoopome, Curator of African Art and Head of the Departmentof Africa, Oceania and Indigenous Americas, Detroit Institute ofArts (DIA), shared his lecture, Africa’s Glorious Achievements. Dr.Quarcoopome brought to Detroit a rich history of African traditionand experiences that spans the globe and transcends generations.In another exhibition, the Brown and Juanita C. Ford Gallery shared with thecommunity art of acclaimed Michigan-based artists M. Saffell Gardner and SabrinaNelson. The Ford Gallery exhibited new works by Gardner and Nelson from the end ofSeptember thru November 2005. The opening reception was open to the public and thetwo artists conducted gallery lectures and workshops.Mr. Gardner earned his B.F.A. and M.F.A. in painting from Wayne State University.Gardner was a recipient of a Regional Artists Project Grant from the National Endowmentfor the Arts and participated in several art mentoring programs in local public schools. Hehas exhibited throughout the United States, Jamaica, Brazil and venues in Africa.Sabrina Nelson is a native of Detroit who earned her B.F.A. in Painting from the Center for Creative Studies Collegeof Art and Design in Detroit, Michigan. She used a variety of media that reflect her ideas and images about Africandeities or Orishas and family life that focused on the strength of African American females.ChineseDelegation AgreementBeginning this fall, WCCCD will provide public safety trainingfor the Department of Public Safety Chengdu, China at the District’sMichigan Institute for Public Safety Education (MIPSE). A delegation,representing law enforcement and economic development interestsin Chengdu, visited WCCCD for the second time in July to formallyannounce the new partnershipwith the District. The delegationmembers included Su Peiwei, vicechairman of the National People’sCommittee; He Jiansheng, deputydirector, Chengdu Police Bureau; XuHongxing, director, Chengdu FireDepartment; Liu Fuchen, director,Fire Department of Wuhou District;Zhang Liwu, interpreter, ForeignAffairs Office of the City of Chengdu.Based of the agreement, training will include tunnel and confinedspace rescue, elevator rescue, multiple fire suppression, SpecialWeapons and Tactics Training (SWAT), emergency command centertraining, and handling hazardous materials.Chengdu, which is listed by the Chinese State Council as one ofChina’s 24 most important cities in terms of historical and culturalsignificance, dates back over 3,600 years. Chengdu is the capital ofTian Fu Zhi Guo, located in the Sichuan Province. The city, richlyendowed with natural resources, covers a total area of 4,749 squaremiles and has a population of over 11 million. District Dimensions Summer 2007

highlightsMark Lang - Provost of the WCCCD Entrepreneurial InstituteEntrepreneurialInstitutethe development of workshops. Some of theworkshop sessions focus on small groups whileother sessions work one-on-one to provide handson guidance. The development workshops are vitalto what the institute provides for an individualwho is starting a business.Opening doors for students who wish to starta business is the number one mission for ProvostMark Lang, WCCCD’s Entrepreneurial Institute.Operating for little more than a year throughworkshops, conferences, business orientations,and outreach programs, for individuals whowish to take the opportunity for power haveparticipated.“The workshops offer encouragement andmotivate individuals to consider entrepreneurship,”said Lang who has observed students who havehesitated due to fear and remain locked in a dreamthat doesn’t get past the dreaming stage. Throughthe workshops held at the institute, students areprovided networking opportunities and referralsto enable them to connect with people who haveexperience in specific types of businesses.Derrick Lillard, manager of the EntrepreneurialInstitute, focuses on day-to-day operations andMark Lang and Derrick Lillard work closelywith Vanessa L. Rucker, micro loan programloan officer of the Center for Empowermentand Economic Development (CEED). CEEDprovides entrepreneurs and business owners withthe administrative, financial, and professionalenrichment support services necessary forbusiness success. Online or classroom trainingis offered to entrepreneurs who have starteda business without a plan, or those who arebeginning the decision-making process. Smallbusiness owners also have the opportunity toapply for micro loans ranging from $5,000 to$35,000 through CEED.BookWorm Club Boosts readingThe Bookworm Club has been delighting the children of Metropolitan Detroitfor more than four years, and it shows no signs of stopping. Founded in 2003by WCCCD Chancellor Curtis L. Ivery and his wife Ola,the pair is doing their part to foster a love of readingamong children. “By getting children to love booksat an early age, they will become very avid readers,Technical guidance at the institute is providedthrough the leadership of Daisy Lopez whoadvises students on business plans, setting upa corporation, a Limited Liability Company(LLC), sole proprietorship, or other avenues. Shecarefully guides students through the conceptionto completion of the plan making sure that alllegalities have been considered.The institute also offers guidance througha core of retired business owners who helpnew business owners who often have limitedresources to market their business. Through theexperience of those who have been successful,students learn ways to put their product in frontof people to ensure success.something that will stay with them for life,” saidMrs. Ivery.During each two-hour session, the children areread a book, learn about new words and enjoydifferent language-based games and activities. Atthe end of each session, children receive a book.Summer 2007 District Dimensions

Special CAMPUS UPDATES FeatureDownriver CampusWinter Art FestThe event consisted of the students being takenon an art gallery tour at the DCA. After the DCAtour, they were brought to the main campus buildingand worked with a professional artist on a project.This event gave many students their first exposureto an art gallery and the experience of working witha professional artist that may influence their futurecareer choices.The Downriver Campus worked in collaborationwith Downriver middle and high schools and theDownriver Council for the Arts (DCA) Gallery to hostits annual Winter Art Fest. The event was also madepossible by the expert assistance of Sherry Washingtonand members of her art gallery staff. The DownriverCampus has served twice the number of high schoolsas it has in the past two years, and added nine middleschools from the Downriver Area.Downtown CampusDowntown Campus Partnerswith Salvation ArmyThe Downtown Campus has formed a partnership with the Salvation Armyby developing a program for WCCCD students in the mental health, socialwork, and substance abuse programs. WCCCD students will internship at theSalvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC). The students will be underthe direction of WCCCD faculty and receive internship credit as a part of theirfieldwork placement requirement. The final pieces are being put in place for astart date during the fall 2007 semester.The newly built Salvation Army’s Thrift Store across from the DowntownCampus hires WCCCD students enrolled in the business program. The SalvationArmy has the added benefit of being able to hire employees with the intellectualand professional skills needed to run a successful business. WCCCD’s studentshave the advantage of receiving some much needed wages from an employerwilling to be flexible with their work and school schedule.WESTERN CampusYoung Authors ConferenceReceives 200 Rave Reviews!In May, the Continuing Education Department at the Western Campus partneredwith the Van Buren Public Schools to present, “The Young Authors Conference.”This program was designed to helpyouth discover their creative abilities andexpress their thoughts in the contextof instructional activities. Students inattendance were able to interact withestablished authors, poets, and storytellers.Parent participation this year wasoutstanding. This was the 16 th year for“The Young Authors Conference” in theVan Buren School District, and the Western Campus’ third year hosting thiseducational event.10 District Dimensions Summer 2007

updatesHealthSciencesIn May, WCCCD celebrated 35 years of educating nurses at itsSpring Health Sciences Recognition Ceremony at the DowntownCampus. On September 14, 1972, the college admitted the first classof 120 nursing students. To mark the occasion, WCCCD honoredDella McGraw Goodwin, the founder and dean emeritus of thenursing program. Deena Centofanti, Fox 2 news anchor and healthreporter, served as keynote speaker for the ceremony, which includedthe traditional pinning ceremony and pledges for the dental andpharmacy technology students.WCCCD AlumniSarah Giles and Ngayi Gamnje Nursing GraduateRosellen BurkartWCCCD AlumniDella GoodwinElizabeth Wright, Sarah Giles, Carol Bryant, Betty RutherfordDeena CentofantiAmber Merritt, Dental Hygiene Graduate, Martha Buckley facultyLaura Conklin, Hugh McLaren III, Nursing GraduateJames Monette, Nursing Graduate now an RN, passed boards, Mary ServeySummer 2007 District Dimensions 11

Special FeatureDreams Really Do Come TrueDiploma key to making dreams a reality for WCCCD grads!With 1,128 graduates dressed in the distinctive and colorful gowns appropriate for academic ceremonies, the WCCCD Commencement was the major downtownevent on Saturday, June 2, 2007. Dr. Allen Cushingberry, grand master, led the procession of candidates, professors, staff, and board members marched to themusic played by the Plymouth Community Band. The Chairperson of the StandingCommittee on Ceremonies and Rituals, Martha J. Grier called the ceremony to order.James Saad, served as the grand marshal. Following the national anthem, Pastor AdolphA. Wachsman, III from Genesis Lutheran Church gave the invocation. Charles Paddock,chairperson, WCCCD, Board of Trustees, District 8 greeted the graduating class and theirfamilies. The representative of the class of 2007, Francisco Juan Solano, also one of thespecial recognition students, gave inspiring remarks to fellow classmates. Dr. George SwanIII introduced the speaker, Reverend Dr. Otis Moss, Jr., pastor Olivet Institutional BaptistChurch in Cleveland, Ohio.Reverend Dr. Otis Moss, Jr. has consulted with presidents, been honored for his workin civil rights, and is recognized for his dedication to all humankind with accolades andachievements great in number superceding the barriers of color, race, and religion. Dr. Mosshas served in the inner circles of persons like Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Dr.Benjamin E. Mays. He was a student at Morehouse College receiving an undergraduatedegree and Master of Divinity through the School of Religion and Inter-DenominationalTheological Center. He was awarded a Doctorate Of Ministry in 1990.Following Dr. Debraha Watson’s presentation of the candidate’s degrees and certificates, Dr.Curtis L. Ivery, chancellor, praised the outstanding class for their dedication and efforts tofulfill lifelong dreams and aspirations.Reverend Dr. Otis Moss, Jr.GraduatesTrustee, Elizabeth PotterFaculty and StaffGraduatesFaculty and StaffAround The DistrictTeaching and LeadershipExcellence AwardAt the the 2007 National Institute for Staff andOrganizational Development (NISOD) Conference,District faculty were awarded the Teaching andLeadership Excellence Award. The awardees are asfollows - Dr. Ella Davis, English; Dr. Wallace Peace,History; Mr. Norman Samuelson, Chemistry; Mr. GaryCiampa, Business and Ms. Shiree Kennedy, Nursing.Along with congratulating faculty, the conferencefocused workshops in the areas of teachingand learning, leadership development, careerdevelopment, and team development. The great workof WCCCD faculty continues to be recognized aroundthe country.Jocelyn Brown elected as the RegionalPresident of Michigan’s Phi Theta KappaInternational Honor SocietyCongratulations to Jocelyn Brown, WCCCD student and president of WCCCD’s chapter of Phi ThetaKappa (PTK) Honor Society. Ms. Brown, along with several members of the WCCCD chapter, attendedthe regional conference in Port Huron where she was elected as the Regional President of Michigan’sPhi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. This honor is a first for WCCCD and is indicative ofthe leadership demonstrated by the WCCCD chapter. Ms. Brown will be responsible for planningthe annual PTK Leadership Conference, the annual Regional Conference, and other events hostedby the state PTK association. In addition to her new position, Ms. Brown also received PTK’s MikeSherman Award given to a regional officer who represents a true leadership spirit; this award isvoted on by the entire membership of PTK. Ms. Brown’s leadership will serve as a model to the otherPTK students who were inducted into the WCCCD chapter last week.12 District Dimensions Summer 2007

Special FeatureReverend Adolph Waschman Grand Marshal James Saad Kim DiCaro Chancellor Dr. Curtis L. IveryTrustee, Charles Paddick Dr. George L. Swan III Audience2007 Class RepresentativeFrancisco Solano Alicia Thomas, George Scott, James Lee, Rita Juhaszne, Joan Hamilton, Jocelyn Brown Dr. Debraha WatsonWCCCD’s PTK ReceivesAwardsCongratulations also go to WCCCD’s PTK chaptermembers who were recognized for their leadershipand commitment to scholarly achievement. Whileat the Port Huron conference this week, the WCCCDchapter received the following awards: MilestoneAward, Five-Star Chapter Award, Silver PinnacleAward, Horizon Award for the advisors and the “SpiritStick.” Under the leadership of Liz Washington andEarlene Williams, the WCCCD’s PTK members havedevoted much of their time to leadership activities,while bringing a great deal of positive visibility tothe District.partnership with Grosse Pointe’s elementary andsecondary schoolsLate last year, Dr. Suzanne Klein, superintendent of the Grosse Pointe Schools, Mr. Lee Warras, executivedirector of the Grosse Pointe summer school, and Mr. Michael Blair, WCCCD’s director of extension centerservices began discussions about a partnership for elementary learning experiences during the summer. As aresult, two ceramics classes for grades 3-5 and one Chinese Language Camp for grades 3-5 are being offered.In addition, WCCCD’s Continuing Education Department provided curriculum materials for a new ForensicScience class for grades 8-12 and a Personal Financial Fitness class also for grades 8-12. Mr. Warras, Mr.Blair, and Ms Judith Smouter, WCCCD’s dean of continuing education look forward to a continuing partnershipthat will be of benefit to Grosse Pointe elementary and secondary students.Summer 2007 District Dimensions 13

Special feature FeatureRecognitionDinnerRecognition of dedicated employees and outstanding students is among the mostimportant celebrations in the college. The third annual Recognition Dinner washeld in May at the Marriott-Detroit Renaissance Center. This year’s theme was“Pathways to New Challenges,” and Dr. George Swan III served as master ofceremonies. Awards were presented to faculty and staff members celebrating 35years of service, and seven (7) 2007 special recognition students. A special featurewas added to the program this year which was the presentation of the first“Community Service Award.” Martha Grier presented the award to Mr. JohnMonks, President of the Plymouth Community Band. The Band has played atWCCCD’s Commencement Ceremonies continuously since 1979.AwardsEmployees Celebrating35 Years Of ServiceFULL TIME FACULTY - Sarah Giles, Dr. Carol Chadwick, Dr. Adam Abid Shakoor, Joseph Jordan, Dr. Harrison MuyiaPART TIME FACULTY - Lillian Craig, Dr. Charles Christmas, Carolyn Bryant, Dr. Donald Gray, Nellie R. Monroe,Accepting on behalf of Henry Shepard, Dr. June RidleyFULL TIME FACULTYEva McGuire Blackwell • 09/01/72Dr. Carol Chadwick • 09/01/72Sarah Giles • 09/01/72Josephus Jordan • 09/01/72Dr. Harrison Muyia • 09/01/72Dr. Adam Adib Shakoor • 09/01/72Dr. Harriett Slocum • 09/01/72Clifford Tinsley, Jr. • 01/17/72PART TIME FACULTYWilliam Anderson • 09/14/72Carolyn Bryant • 09/01/72Dr. Charles Christmas • 09/14/72Lillian Craig • 09/01/72Dr. Herbert Goewey • 09/01/72Dr. Donald Gray • 01/14/72Chorng Shi Houh • 01/18/72Joyce Milton • 09/01/72Nellie R. Monroe • 09/14/72Dr. June Ridley • 09/01/72Henry Shepherd • 09/01/72Dr. Doris Witherspoon • 02/21/72Milo Yacos • 01/17/72P&AAWilliam Montie • 05/08/72UAWWilhemina Alsup • 12/04/72Walta Belle • 01/17/72SPECIAL RECOGNITION STUDENTS - Francisco Juan Solano, Joan T. Hamilton, George W. Scott, Rita Juhaszne,Jocelyn F. Brown, James A. Lee, Alicia A. ThomasEXEMPTDr. Janet M. Dettloff • 01/17/72Sammie Rice • 08/14/72Walta Belle and Dr. George L Swan IIIMartha Grier and John Monks -President Olymouth Community Band2007 SPECIAL RECOGNITION STUDENTSJocelyn F. BrownJoan T. HamiltonRita JuhaszneJames A. LeeGeorge W. ScottFrancisco Juan SolanoAlicia A. Thomas14 District Dimensions Summer 2007

Special featureHonors ConvocationEach year it is important to recognize the achievements of students who obtained thehighest level of academic achievement at the College and 414 students had a 3.25 GPA orbetter. The annual Graduation Honors Convocation was held in May at the NorthwestCampus. During this event we honored the 30 students with perfect 4.0 grade pointaverages, along with those who obtain summa, magna or cum laude status. ProfessorJames Saad, an original full-time faculty member at WCCCD served as Grand Marshal.Professor Saad teaches anthropology and Geography.Phi Theta KappaAs part of the events leading up to commencement, on May 11,2007, WCCCD held its spring induction ceremony for Phi ThetaKappa Alpha Upsilon Zeta chapter at the Downtown Campus. PhiTheta Kappa is the only honor societyserving two-year institutions whichoffer associate degree programs. Morethan 120 students spanning a variety ofbackgrounds were inducted this year,along with Carol Wells, WCCCD vicechancellor of student services, whowas admitted as an honorary member.Ms. Mildred Gaddis, (pictured left)host of WCHB’s morning talk show“Inside Detroit” was keynote speakerfor the ceremony.Summer 2007 District Dimensions 15

Special FeatureCALLING ALL READERSCAPTURE THE MOMENT is getting student’s attention. Many readers haveresponded to Dimension’s request for contributions to the District’s newsletter andmost are positive comments about special people who are a part of the WCCCDteam.Linda Doss complimented Barbara Morris and Vivian Davis who are located at theWestern Campus Student Services department. She reports,“I had to get course information from fall 2004 and spring 2005 for some (student)record repair and the ladies in student services were excellent and very helpfulin finding old but very necessary course schedules for those past years. I find thepersonnel at Western, by far, the most courteous, helpful and truly sincere people Ihave dealt with.”Sheila Fisher raves about Donna at the Downriver Campus who was extremelyfriendly and helpful. She writes, “Donna was extremely friendly and professionalalthough she was very busy. She never made me feel like I was a problem – in fact,she thanked me for my phone call! Give this woman a raise!”Renee Bell describes the first day of class in, “Application of Christianity Today,”taught by Dr. Timothy Careather as being “magnificent.” Bell reports that she is thefirst to graduate from high school in her family and 30 years later, the first to attendcollege and is looking forward to completing course work at WCCCD and transferringto a four-year college.Though there were others, these comments reflect the positive work being done atWCCCD and readers are encouraged to continue to send in comments. Each issuewill attempt to review them and report positive comments. Negative feedback isappreciated and will be referred to the appropriate departments.Dimensions needs your inputEase ofAccessExcellentClassStudentCommentsCapture the Moment!LearnedA LotWhen WCCCD successfullydelivers a great experience,we want to capture thatmoment and share it withothers. Please complete thisform and mail it to UnbreenAmir in the Chancellor’sOffice. You may forwardyour questions via email atuamir1@wcccd.edu or call(313) 496-2819.Contribute to the District Dimensions NewsletterOutstandingSupportExcellentStudentAssistanceWonderfulCustomerServiceSuperiorInformationInformationI Can UseYour Name:______________________________________Today’s Date:______________________________________Date of Greatness:______________________________________Who was complimented:______________________________________WCCCD Location:______________________________________Complimentors’ Name:______________________________________Phone_____________________________________Email_____________________________________FacultyCommentsGreatEventGreatInstructorBriefly Describe Situation: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mission StatementWCCCD’s mission is to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve their goals through excellent and accessibleservices, culturally diverse experiences, and globally competitive higher education and career advancement programs.Did YouKnow? Surgical First AssistantsPassThe inaugural class of surgical firstassistant students have all passedpassed their licensing test! Thiscareer program was introducedand accredited this year. Currently,Dr. Mark Shikman and staff arepreparing the second class ofstudents for their tests, which willbe taken at the end of August. Achieving the DreamThe District has been selectedto join Achieving the Dream: anational intiative to help communitycolleges increase the success ofstudents. The college is one of26 community colleges throughoutthe country joining the initiativeencompassing 84 participatinginstitutions in 15 states. It providesparticipating colleges with supportto implement strategies designedto help more students earn degrees,complete certification, or transferto other institutions in pursuit ofan advanced degree. Achieving theDream emphasizes building a cultureof evidence to identify effectivepractices, improve student successrates, and close achievement gaps. Higher Education MoreAccessible For StudentsThe Distance Learning Division haslaunched a Virtual Student Center ina Blackboard course site accessibleto students in on-line blended (onlineand face-to-face), and webenhanced(face-to-face with an onlinecomponent) courses. The sitecreates a virtual community wherestudents have access to the latestdistance learning updates, engagein live chats with other students orintstructors, and are able to get thelatest course updates. The VirtualStudent Center experienced 1,827hits within 72 hours of its launch.16 District Dimensions Summer 2007