state-ofthe-art

Page 4 : Collaboration + Learning = Student Success
The new Collaborative Learning Center (CLC) is
scheduled for completion in April 2016. The state-ofthe-art
CLC will maximize opportunities for student
success by combining synergistic functions and
fostering collaboration among students, staff, faculty
and community.
Page 8 : Changing Course
At Jefferson’s commencement ceremony on May
15, not only did Cory A. Kelly earn his associate of
science degree in individual studies, he also marked 2
years and 8 months of sobriety.
Page 10 : Positioning our Community and College
The Center for Community Studies at Jefferson
Community College is committed to enhancing the
quality of life of the North Country and provides the
opportunity for students to apply their classroom
knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and grow as
citizens making a difference.
Pages 16, 22 : Distinguished Alumni & Hall of Fame
The accomplishments of Jefferson’s Distinguished
Alumni Award recipients and Cannoneer Hall of
Fame inductees are celebrated at a banquet held in
their honor.

3
A
Table of Contents
Message from
the President
4-5 Collaboration
+ Learning =
Student Success
Jefferson Community College
1220 Coffeen Street
Watertown, NY 13601
State University of New York
Sponsored by Jefferson County
6-7
Campus Updates
8-9
Changing Course
----- Board of Trustees -----
James P. Scordo, Chair
Terry N. Fralick, Vice Chair
Cailey M. Burrows, Student Trustee
10-11
16-17
22-25
Positioning Our
College and
Community
12-13
15
This publication is produced by the Marketing & Public Relations Office
at Jefferson Community College.
Leslie DiStefano, (315) 786-2234, ldistefano@sunyjefferson.edu
Pamela Dixon, (315) 786-2392, pdixon@sunyjefferson.edu
David Bowhall, (315) 786-2383, dbowhall@sunyjefferson.edu
Faculty & Staff
Kudos
14 Academic News Jefferson Athletics
Foundation News
27
Alumni News
In the Spotlight
18-21
26
Aspiring Musician
Builds Repertoire
at Jefferson
Trustee Spotlight
David J. Clark
Michael W. Crowley
Steven C. Haas
Nathan P. Hunter
Doris G. McLallen
Michelle D. Pfaff
Lisa A. Weber
----- Administration -----
Carole A. McCoy
President
Thomas J. Finch
Vice President for Academic Affairs
Daniel J. Dupee, II
Vice President for Administration
& Finance, Treasurer
Betsy D. Penrose
Vice President for Students
Jefferson Community College is committed
to providing equal access to its educational
programs, activities, and facilities to all
otherwise qualified students without
discrimination on the basis of race, color,
national origin, religion, creed, age,
disability, sex, gender identity, sexual
orientation, familial status, pregnancy,
predisposing genetic characteristics,
military status, domestic violence victim
status, or criminal conviction, or any
other category protected by applicable
state or federal law. An Equal Opportunity
employer, JCC also affirms its commitment
to nondiscrimination in its employment
policies and practices. In compliance with
Title IX of the Education Amendments of
1972, JCC prohibits sex discrimination,
including sexual harassment.

A Message from the President
Economics
My undergraduate degree is in economics. It is a degree that has served me well in how it helps to
shape my thinking. At its core, the field of economics is about the concept of scarce resources. There
are never enough resources – time, money, people, or space – to do everything that everyone wants
to have done. At home we are constantly making choices about what to spend our money on and
how to allocate our time. In business and government this concept is the same. The only difference
is that at home you are trying to make the best choices for a family, at work you are trying to make
the best choices for an organization and all its stakeholders. The more voices, the more difference of
opinion about choices.
A primary role of our leaders is to make tough decisions about resource allocations. What can we do
to increase our revenues? In the case of government that frequently means asking are we willing to
increase taxes? What gets funded, what gets staffed, and what takes priority? While what programs
and services are funded is important, as important is what programs and services are not funded.
What are we doing without because we couldn’t afford to do everything?
It is through the lens of an economist that I have been watching the debate about “free community
colleges.” Clearly the cost of running a college isn’t free. At Jefferson our operating budget is almost
$30 million with the majority of that expense related to salaries for faculty and staff. “Free community
college” means that all (or at least most) students will not pay any tuition or fees to attend. Many
students don’t start because they cannot afford to come, while others complete but leave with debt.
Most discouraging are those who attend, accrue debt, and then do not finish. As a strong believer in
the transformative power of a community college education for all students, of course I would love
for more students to be able to attend and complete.
But as an economist, I have to ask the question of where will the replacement resources to fund a
free community college come from? The tuition and fees that students pay to Jefferson is over $14
million. Not all of that is out of pocket because students receive many different types of scholarships
and grants. Still, are we willing to raise taxes for this? What programs and services are we willing to
cut or eliminate to be able to allocate more money to community colleges? Will the economic and
social benefits of having a more educated citizenry make up for the additional expense?
This will be an interesting topic to follow and I will be watching it closely. Meanwhile, I am committed
to finding as many ways as I can to keep the cost of attending Jefferson Community College
as low as possible. We’ve been successful in winning a number of grants ($1.3 million of this year’s
budget comes from grants) and our strategic plan has an emphasis on seeking out grants that support
our strategic and operational needs. We are collaborating with others to reduce costs through
buying consortiums, particularly in the areas of energy and information technology. We have been,
and will continue to be, focused on understanding our costs to streamline operations and keep our
money going where it is most important – the classroom and academic support. No matter what
happens with free community college, we will continue to make the tough choices here at Jefferson
to ensure our students receive a high quality yet affordable education.
Carole A. McCoy
President
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 3

COLLABORATION + LEARNING =
Student Success
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 4

College Breaks Ground on State-of-the-Art Collaborative Learning Center
In May, Jefferson Community College celebrated yet another milestone in the College’s 54-year history as Jefferson administration,
students, faculty/staff, elected officials and community members broke ground on the College’s new Collaborative Learning Center (CLC).
Scheduled for completion in April 2016, the state-of-the-art Collaborative Learning Center will maximize opportunities for student success
by combining synergistic functions and fostering collaboration among students, staff, faculty and community.
“It was seven years ago that the Collaborative Learning Center was defined and designated as a high priority in Jefferson’s strategic plan
and facilities master plan,” said Carole A. McCoy, college president. “Words cannot express how gratifying it is to see it come to fruition
and we could not have done it without the support of our many community partners, Jefferson County and New York State.” Funding for
the $11 million Collaborative Learning Center, along with $3 million for the subsequent Dewey Building renovation, has been provided by
the College’s local sponsor, Jefferson County, and New York State.
“We know our students need innovative learning space that cultivates teamwork with their peers, interaction with staff and faculty, and
convenient access to the support services that will help them be successful,” said McCoy. Students will have direct access to essential
academic support services, library resources, break-out rooms for team projects or group study, and flexible space filled with natural light
and furnishings that support a comfortable learning environment.
The first floor will be comprised of academic support services for students including academic coaching, new student services, placement
testing, transfer counseling, career planning & job placement, veterans services and the TRiO Strategies To Achieve Results (STAR) program.
The second floor will be comprised of the Scanlon Tutoring Center, the College library and media center. Both floors will contain
technologically smart classrooms, group study space and wireless internet. In addition, the building will serve as a central home base for
the office of campus safety and security. Other notable features include an information center, a café, and an open multi-purpose space
that can function as a student lounge or serve as a gathering space for College and community functions. This space will be accentuated
with a fireplace and adjacent outdoor landscaped patio.
The idea of collaboration and partnerships was a theme expressed by many of the groundbreaking ceremony speakers. Calling it “one of
the most exciting projects” he has worked on, Robin Mach of Mach Architecture noted the CLC’s “design was guided by goals, driven by
passion and fueled by collaboration” among what he referred to as the “facilitators, realists, do-ers and dreamers.”
Mach Architecture of Williamsville (NY) along with Bernier Carr & Associates of Watertown (NY) designed the 36,000 square foot facility
to standards of LEED Silver. Under the project management of Purcell Construction Corporation of Watertown (NY), construction of the
$11 million facility is well underway with Bette & Cring Construction Group of Watertown serving as general contractor. Construction
progress can be followed on the College’s webcam: http://www.sunyjefferson.edu/news-events/webcam.
To learn more about the Collaborative Learning Center and opportunities to support student success through this innovative project,
please contact the executive director of the JCC Foundation, Lisa Familo, at 315-786-2291.
Pictured above (left to right): James P. Scordo, chair of the Jefferson Community College Board of Trustees; Addie J. Russell, NYS
Assemblywoman representing the 116th District; Michael Montigelli, Jefferson County Board of Legislators, District 5; Danielle M.
Scott, president of JCC Student Government for the 2014-2015 academic year; Carole A. McCoy, president of Jefferson Community
College; Robin R. Mach, principal of Mach Architecture; Jason McCullouch, project manager, Purcell Construction; Cedric Baggett,
president of JCC Student Government for the 2015-2016 academic year; and Jason S. Jantzi, principal and architect with Bernier
Carr & Associates.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 5

Jefferson Receives 10 Year
Accreditation by the Middle
States Commission on Higher
Education
Jefferson is pleased to announce that the
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
acted to reaffirm the accreditation of
Jefferson Community College on June 25,
2015. A 10-year cycle, JCC’s accreditation is
extended through 2025. The Middle States
Commission on Higher Education is an
institutional accrediting agency recognized
by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the
Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
The Middle States evaluation team recognized
numerous significant accomplishments
of Jefferson Community College
beginning with campus-wide collaboration
in developing the mission, vision and
strategic goals which identified student
success, completion and enhancement
of educational opportunities as primary
objectives. Specifically, the evaluation
team commended the College for fostering
a positive and collegial environment
throughout campus, the quality and
implementation of the facilities master
plan including the realization of substantial
energy savings, the establishment of
the Collaborative Learning Center and
increased student services, the development
of on-campus housing and ability to
recruit students from new markets, efforts
to advance the community by developing
academic degree programs of local interest
(such as agri-business) and workforce
development initiatives ( such as allied
health certifications) through the College’s
Continuing Education Division, and for
the Center for Community Studies which
provides students with applied learning
experiences. In particular, Jefferson was
commended for the variety of assessment
activities campus-wide including efforts
to assess student development, student
satisfaction and student services. Jefferson
was further commended for its ability
to meet the needs of the military, family
members and veterans. JCC was initially accredited
by the Middle States Commission
on Higher Education in1969.
JCC Designated ‘Fit Friendly’
Worksite
In July, Jefferson was recognized for maintaining
its gold-level fit friendly designation
by the American Heart Association. To
receive fit friendly designation, worksites
must implement programs to encourage
physical activity and promote good health.
The college offers numerous fitness and
wellness activities for employees including
a free membership to the McGrann Fitness
Center; zumba, piyo and spinning classes;
and opportunities to hike, bike, run and
cross country ski nature trails that span
more than two miles on campus. This is the
3rd consecutive year Jefferson has received
the Fit Friendly designation.
NEWS
F R O M
A R O U N D
THE CAMPUS
Retirees Reunion Luncheon held in June
Jefferson’s annual retiree luncheon was held on June 25 at the Italian American Club in
Watertown. Retirees and guests in attendance include (left to right): front row - Judy
Pearson, Klaus Ebeling, John & Mary Jo Deans, Lorraine & John Henderson, Twyla Cushman,
Pat Pearson; second row - Kate Fenlon, Sue Wadhams, Elva Lacomb, Barb Gaskin, Dick
& Jan Young, John Cecil, Mary Newman, Terry Heagle, Toni Scordo, Sister Janice Peters,
Marie Hess, Sharon Lasker, Ellen Childs, Bob Bookser, Cathy & Kim Davis; third row - Mary
Lou Bertrand, David & Karen Carr, Roberta Lockwood, Carol Doe, Susan Sprague, Bill Doe,
Bob Lacomb, Pat Barbalich, (behind Pat) Karl Van Voorhis, Dick & Chris Boyanski, Rod Esley,
Camie & Jim Baker, John Phillips, Tom Walker.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 6
Meet Jefferson’s Student
Resident Assistants 2015-2016
Front row: (l-r) Kristin VanBrocklin of Henderson,
Allison Shrewsberry of Gouverneur, Rachel Ellingsworth
of Carthage
Back row: (l-r) Cordel Brouty of Croghan, Thomas
Gitlin and Gavin Davidson of Theresa, Keishon Reid
of Laurelton, Stacie Burdick of Mexico
$1.1 Million Grant Fuels JCC ‘s
TRiO Student Support
Services
Jefferson was recently awarded another
TRiO Student Support Services grant from
the U.S. Department of Education of just
over $1.1 million dollars spread over the
next five years. The funding is designated
to provide academic support and assistance
for JCC students who meet certain
eligibility criteria relating to disability or income
or who are ‘first-generation,’ meaning
neither parent nor guardian has earned a
bachelor’s degree. The goal of the Student
Support Services grant is to assist and
motivate students towards the successful
completion of postsecondary education.
The TRiO grant is administered through
Jefferson’s STAR (Strategies To Achieve
Results) Program, a student success initiative.
The STAR Program helps students
adapt successfully to the college environment,
succeed academically, define career
goals, graduate from Jefferson Community
College, and/or transfer to a four–year
institution.
New Student
Trustee
Cailey M. Burrows,
Watertown, has been
elected by the JCC student
body to serve as
the student member
of the Jefferson Community
College Board
of Trustees for the 2015-2016 academic
year. Her term began in July 2015.
Cailey is 2014 graduate of Watertown High
School where she was a member of the
National Honor Society. At Jefferson, she is
enrolled in the mathematics and science
associate of science degree program with
a concentration in allied health. Cailey is
planning to pursue a career in the healthcare
field and recently completed certified

nursing assistant training at Samaritan
Medical Center. During her freshman
year at Jefferson, Cailey was involved in a
variety of activities including treasurer for
Student Government and serving on the
Faculty Student Association board and the
social cultural committee. As the Student
Government treasurer she kept records of
various funds and presided over the budget
finance committee. An active student,
Cailey continues to show her dedication to
Jefferson with this new appointment.
Lisa Familo
Appointed
Executive
Director for
Foundation
On July 20, Jefferson
welcomed Lisa M.
Familo, Dexter, to the
position of college
development officer
for the Jefferson Community
College Foundation. As executive
director for the Jefferson Foundation, Ms.
Familo is responsible for the development
and implementation of strategic advancement
objectives for the College relating to
annual and major gifts, capital and planned
giving programs, and alumni programming.
She brings nearly 15 years of nonprofit
managerial experience and skills in
strategic planning, financial administration,
fundraising, and developing community
partnerships.
Prior to moving to the North Country in
2014, Ms. Familo served for 10 years as
executive director of the Harnett County
Partnership for Children in Lillington, North
Carolina subsequent to serving as program
manager with the organization for three
years. The Harnett County Partnership for
Children is a 501(C)(3) organization created
to provide programs and services for
young children and their families through
community-based programs focusing on
health, education and family support. As
executive director, Ms. Familo administered
a $3.8 million annual budget, supervised
a staff of 10 as well as community volunteers,
and developed and implemented a
comprehensive strategic plan for the organization.
During her tenure, she increased
the local community’s ability to provide
services by fostering collaboration and
developing partnerships with local organizations
and agencies. She also developed
a comprehensive fundraising plan and, in
2014, exceeded $380,000 in grants, in-kind
and cash contributions.
Previously, Lisa served as executive
director of the North Carolina Alliance for
Health, a Morrisville-based organization
that advocates for policies that promote
wellness and reduce the impact of obesity
and tobacco. In this role she managed
overall operations, developed and implemented
a comprehensive strategic plan,
and created a fund development plan
that included strategies for membership
recruitment, renewals and major donor
solicitations.
Ms. Familo holds a master of nonprofit
management (M.N.M) degree from Regis
University, a bachelor of arts degree in
communication from North Carolina State
University and a certificate in nonprofit
management from Duke University.
Jefferson Named Finalist in
Climate Leadership
Second Nature, a national nonprofit
that works to proactively build a sustainable
and positive global future
by working with leadership
networks in higher education, announced
the finalists for its 6th annual Climate
Leadership Awards. Jefferson is one of the
two-year institutions in the running!
The Climate Leadership Competition is for
higher education institutions across the
nation that are signatories of the American
College and University Presidents’ Climate
Commitment (ACUPCC), a signature
program of Second Nature to address
global climate disruption undertaken by a
network of colleges and universities that
have made institutional commitments to
accelerate progress towards climate neutrality
and sustainability. At Jefferson, with
support of the college’s EverGREEN Committee,
president Carole McCoy proudly
signed the ACUPCC in 2012. Two winners
will be selected in the Climate Leadership
Competition, one from a two-year institution
and one from a four-year institution.
Second Nature received nearly 50 applications
from across the country.
This year Second Nature partnered with
U.S. Green Building Council’s Center for
Green Schools. Greenbuild is the world’s
largest green building conference and
expo! Winners of the Climate Leadership
Competition will be recognized at the 2015
Greenbuild Leadership Awards Program
on November 19 in Washington, DC. Wish
Jefferson the best of luck!
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 7

Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 8

JCC Student Determined To Change Course Of
Direction Knowing Help Is In His Corner
At Jefferson’s commencement ceremony on May 15, not only did
Cory A. Kelly earn his associate of science degree in individual
studies, he also marked 2 years and 8 months of sobriety. The
following day, Cory left on a road trip to Kentucky where he plans
to transfer into the human services program at the University of
Louisville. It was a road trip he wasn’t expecting to be on and one
he may not have been traveling if it weren’t for his own resolve and
a connection formed with a staff member at Jefferson.
Cory came to the North Country in the 1990s by way of the U.S.
Army. After his career in the military ended he bounced around
a bit between his home state of Kentucky and his family, which
includes three young daughters, here in the North Country.
Cory had planned to start classes at Jefferson in the fall of 2012
when, after his third DWI arrest, he made a life changing decision
to check himself into the hospital and get sober. By January of
2014, he had progressed enough in his treatment, moving from
inpatient to a residential facility, that he could once again enroll
in classes. It was at the residential facility where he met Matt
Lambert, a transfer counselor and academic advisor at Jefferson,
who also worked at Credo Community Center for the Treatment
of Addictions as a member of the evening residence staff. Both
sports fanatics, it was football that first got them talking, but Cory
soon found that in Matt Lambert he had a mentor and champion
in his corner.
the way. He helped clear the cobwebs, helped me with moving
one block at a time and not trying to tackle them all at once which
can be overwhelming.”
“From very early on in his treatment, Cory expressed great interest
in continuing his education, frequently quizzing me on my own
educational path,” said Lambert. “He has carried an excellent GPA,
while also working his way through college. Through determination
and self-discipline, Cory eventually gained employment at
the same treatment program he was a client in and we became
co-workers.” In time and after being out on his own again, Cory
began working at Samaritan Medical Center and was employed at
Convergys until moving to Kentucky.
“Cory worked hard to achieve a healthy balance between school,
work, and leisure, in order to continue his successful recovery
journey,” said Lambert. “He serves as an outstanding example of
success and hope for those that face the same struggles.”
This fall, Cory is enrolled in online classes at Jefferson and hopes to
complete JCC’s human services degree which will assist with transfer
to the University of Louisville. A business major early on, his
new goal is to help others work their way through substance abuse
treatment and recovery, much like Matt has helped him.
“With Matt’s guidance and my recovery program, I’ve learned that
life is all about balance,” said Cory. “No matter where you were, you
can always go somewhere positive.”
“I had attended college before JCC and I always knew I wanted to
go back sometime, but it was really Matt’s encouragement that
kept me focused on returning to JCC, persisting, and completing
my degree,” said Kelly. “Matt’s was a steady voice of reason along
Cory Kelly was among nearly 500 Jefferson students commencing on
May 15, 2015. In a student body where approximately 47% are adult
learners, aged 25 years or older, and nearly 43% are comprised of
active duty soldiers and their family members, veterans or retirees – it
is not unlikely that the majority of students faced challenges of some
kind, of varying degrees, while completing their degrees.
Keynote speaker Thomas H. Carman, president and CEO of Samaritan
Medical Center, and student speaker Hollis C. Harrington both touched
upon the many struggles faced by today’s students and provided words
of encouragement as well as offered congratulations to graduates on
their hard earned accomplishments.
Quoting Calvin Coolidge, Carman noted “persistence” and “determination”
as keys to success and advised students to always:
• Find your passion, give it your best, and live your dreams.
• Choose your attitude and how you handle failure. Be
determined and make the most of any situation. Remember
you can learn more from failure than from success.
• Do what you do for the right reasons and learn from the
experience.
Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Spring and Summer graduates of
Jefferson Community College!
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 9

Positioning our
Community & College
Research for the Community
The Center for Community Studies (CCS) at Jefferson Community College
is committed to enhancing the quality of life of the North Country. Each
year, the Center conducts unbiased community-based research on issues
of significance to aid in local decision-making. Jefferson students play a
big role in the research process: the Center provides the opportunity for
students to apply their classroom knowledge, gain hands-on experience,
and grow as citizens making a difference. All of this makes the Center a
highly valued entity here in the North Country, for both the residents and
student participants.
On the brink of his re-immersion into full-time teaching after five years
as director of the College’s Center for Community Studies, JCC politicalscience
professor Ray Petersen described the rewards of his CCS tenure
and his vision for the Center’s future.
When Dr. Petersen assumed the title of director in 2011, he was not
new to the Center. Since 1999, he helped with programming and was
instrumental in setting up a lecture series that focused, over the years, on
topics ranging from understanding world cultures, to sustainability, to
community social and economic issues like wind farms, gun control, and
minimum wage.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 10
In fact, the CCS grew out of a prospectus he submitted after a 1991
sabbatical trip to study other community centers. As the fourth director,
he succeeds JCC’s Dr. Richard Halpin, Denise Young, and Richard
LeClerc, each of whom furthered the Center’s work. During his tenure, Dr.
Petersen described his own Center objectives as financial and workload
stability - maintaining the Center’s valuable work while recognizing that

local groups would like more studies than the Center has the time and resources to conduct. The Center keeps its
invoicing low thanks to a Car-Freshner Corporation endowment and support from the College, and maintains a
steady flow of studies thanks to surveys it repeats on an annual basis.
“We’re in really good shape,” he reported; otherwise, he said, he wouldn’t think about stepping down to concentrate
on professional and personal goals, which include both academic and creative writing projects (he is a member of
the SUNY Distinguished Professor Academy, and is the author of two published novels). Meanwhile, he will conduct
one more Center survey this fall, for the North Country Prenatal/Perinatal Council.
The community studies themselves yield information (via survey instruments) on topics such as local gambling behaviors,
downtown Watertown retail space, recycling, airport usage, and resident viewpoints on local quality of life.
Dr. Petersen cites the gambling-behaviors study as one example of a surprising outcome. Survey results showed
that Jefferson County residents spent $50 million a year on gambling-related activities. “You can’t help think,” he
notes, “what could we do with $50 million a year? How many jobs could you create?”
Additionally, a CCS study for Hospice of Jefferson County established the need for the new Gotham St. Hospice facility;
a study for Alexandria Bay’s E.J. Noble Hospital helped to transform it into today’s River Hospital, when it might
have shut down or had its services radically curtailed. Annually, the Development Authority of the North Country is
a major sponsor of three surveys the Center now conducts for Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties.
“If you compare our survey response rate to any other professionals in the field,” said Dr. Petersen, “we’d be the envy
of them. Our response rate is great and that’s a tribute to the students who help with the surveys, and to how they
conduct them.“
Students make between 350-400 telephone calls over the course of three to four days when conducting
research for the Center. When the community participates, their opinions help to shape North Country policy and
decision-making.
Applied Learning for Jefferson Students
For 17 years—since 1999—JCC math professor Joel LaLone has been the Center for Community Study’s secret
weapon, the mastermind behind the data that emerges from its projects. His Mathematics Department colleague,
Assistant Professor Larry Danforth, is stepping into the new position of Research Coordinator, though he has been
involved in the work of the Center since 2011. Mr. LaLone and Mr. Danforth design, guide, and finalize the studies,
but at the heart of their analysis is an applied-learning process whereby JCC statistics students are involved in every
step of the survey projects.
Technological advances have made mathematics “explode,” said Mr. LaLone, “with big data and all of that. Thirty
years ago, I wouldn’t have been able to do some of this.”
From development of the research questions to population identification, to definition of variables; to sample
methodology, to data collection and data cleansing; to data analysis, data interpretation, and public presentation,
JCC statistics students help with the work of the Center.
If they man the phones, they are paid for their work; if they don’t, they will still process some of the collected information
in their coursework. “It’s the same mathematics formulas as the canned problems in my book,” Mr. LaLone
pointed out, “but I can imagine it’s more meaningful to work on things that really impact their community.”
Per semester, between 150 and 200 students are involved with the Center’s data analysis. Frequently, the Math
Department hears back from them once they go out into the work world, where they find themselves at an advantage
due to their CCS activities. Mr. LaLone cites examples of students who received MBAs, but credit JCC ahead of
their graduate institutions for where they are today—for example, Matt Biedekapp, described by K S & R Corp. of
Syracuse as one of its “rising-star” employees.
Mr. Danforth added, “We give information to the community that other communities don’t get. I come from Corning
Community College, and Corning has to contract out for something like that.”
A favorite statistical challenge is coming up with the methodologies for data collection. “You can’t just figure out
how to do an economic analysis on Tug Hill by googling it,” said Mr. LaLone. “That’s been professionally gratifying,
to have to keep learning and expanding.” Students, too, suggest improvements in designs or survey instruments,
and they do on-the-job problem-solving, like the student who called Wal-Mart in Lowville to learn Lewis County
cell-phone prefixes. When students find unique angles in the research, that data sometimes ends up in Center
reports.
“These are great young minds,” Mr. LaLone said of his student assistants.
He is pleased that his teaching methods give them opportunities to get involved. He added about the work of the
Center, “I feel very fortunate that we (JCC) created this.”
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 11

Faculty & Staff/Student Kudos
2015 Retirees
SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence
(l-r) President Carole McCoy, Terry Heagle, Karen Carr, Michael
Perry, and trustee David Clark. Missing from photo: Kevin Clark,
Kathleen Lane, Michele Price, Suzanne Wadhams
(l-r) President Carole McCoy, Robyn Rhyner, Timothy Grosse, Jack
Donato, William McMahon, trustee David Clark
30 Milestone Years of Service
25 Milestone Years of Service
Joel LaLone and Brenda Hatch
(l-r) Terry Heagle, Cynthia Shelmidine, Sharon Weeks, Karen Carr,
Kerry Young
2015 Spirit of Jefferson Award
JCC EverGREEN Committee
JCC EverGREEN Committee
(l-r) Matthew Lambert, James Juczak, Megan Pistolese, Tina
Bartlett-Bearup, Bruce Alexander, Christina Ebey, Venkat Chebolu,
Linda Dittrich
(l-r): Matthew Lambert, Linda Dittrich, Tina Bartlett-Bearup,
Peter Boenning, Venkat Chebolu, Bruce Alexander, Carole
McCoy
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 12

SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student
Excellence
SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student
Excellence
(l-r) SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher, Danielle Scott, JCC VP for
Students Betsy Penrose
(l-r) SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher, Mikayla Warren, JCC VP for
Students Betsy Penrose
All-New York PTK Academic Team
All-New York PTK Academic Team
(l-r) President Carole McCoy and Rabecca Venturelli
(l-r) President Carole McCoy and Kathleen Coloney
E-Day Business Competition Winners
Nurses Pinning December 2014
Winners of the JCC business competition also earned first place in
the North Country Regional Business Plan Competition & received
the Best Financial Analysis Award at the 2015 High School Business
Plan Competition. (l-r) Benjamin Nelson, Victoria Ciarfella, Cameron
Morgan, Talon Parker
(l-r) Bottom row: Tyasia Mosley, Amanda Terrillion, Alexandra Miller,
Lisa Proulx. Top row: Leslie Lamirande, Shannon Glover, Matthew
Sheldon, Carmen Pratt, Alyson Tighe
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 13

Nurses Pinning May 2015
(l-r) Front row: Nakia Doldo, April Gonzales, Sierra Reed, Mikayla
Lyttle, Maria DuBose, Heidi Moser, Kristina Taylor. Second row:
Tyler Sorrell, Kristin Navarra, Angela Duque, Donielle Hall, Amber
Lobdell, Amanda Whitson, Tara Fullam, Justin Farman. Back row:
Brandy Vondell, Megan Ackland, Alexandra Desonier, Amber Mc-
Cargar, Jamie Sylver, Rachel Wakefield
Academic News
New Transfer Degree Program in
Early Childhood
Jefferson Community College launched a new Early Childhood
associate in science (A.S.) transfer program designed to be the first
two years of a four-year education in early childhood or related
field.
The program features fieldwork placement in either an infant/
toddler or preschool early childhood setting that allows students
to gain practical, hands-on experience. Fieldwork placement sites
may include, but are not limited to: Head Start, Fort Drum Child
Development Centers, Campus Early Childhood Learning Center,
a variety of local day care centers, preschools, and universal pre-K,
a NYS Registered family day care, group family day care, as well as
public and private schools. The A.S. degree in early childhood can
be completed in four semesters of full-time study or over a longer
period of time through part-time study. Classes are held on campus
and are available online.
Graduates of JCC’s early childhood A.S. program will have many
transfer opportunities to colleges and universities in the State University
of New York (SUNY) system as well as private institutions.
Jefferson has a partnership with SUNY Cobleskill through the Jefferson
Higher Education Center (JHEC) which enables a Jefferson
graduate to enroll in SUNY Cobleskill’s baccalaureate program and
take classes held on JCC’s campus. Classes are taught by SUNY
Cobleskill faculty. Jefferson also has a formal partnership with
Excelsior College to provide graduates a seamless transfer. Other
transfer opportunities exist with SUNY Cortland and SUNY Empire.
Fall semester condensed late session (4-week) classes run October
21 to December 16. Applying to Jefferson is free!
For more information about Jefferson’s Early Childhood degree
programs, contact Gwen Francis-Frey, Associate Professor of Early
Childhood, at 786-2362 or email gfrancis-frey@sunyjefferson.edu.
Visit www.sunyjefferson.edu to learn more.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 14
SUNY Oswego Brings Certificate of Advanced
Study in Educational Leadership to Watertown
A partnership between SUNY Oswego and Jefferson Community
College will add a Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) in Educational
Leadership to the options of advanced degree programs offered
at JCC through the Jefferson Higher Education Center (JHEC).
Designed for certified tenured school personnel who hold a master’s
degree in any New York State education certification ( including
student support services), the CAS in Educational Leadership
program consists of part-time study and leads to full certification
in any school leadership position. It includes both School Building
Leader (SBL) and School District Leader (SDL) NYS certifications.
SUNY Oswego’s program features a combination of integrated
coursework, authentic learning inside schools, and field experience.
Designed to be completed over the course of two and half
years, students will meet one night per week during the evening
on JCC’s campus.
Applications are now being accepted with rolling admissions. The
program formally begins in the Fall semester, but candidates can
also take one or two courses in the summer preceding their formal
entry. To apply, contact Chris Taylor, department secretary at SUNY
Oswego, Chris.Taylor@oswego.edu. For more information about
the program, contact department chair Angela Perrotto at angela.
perrotto@oswego.edu or call the JHEC office at 315-786-2265.
Open House on November 13, 2015
Have you thought about earning your degree, but didn’t know
where to start? Attend Jefferson’s open house on Friday, November
13 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to learn about our friendly admissions
process.
High school seniors are invited to come see for themselves why
JCC is a perfect fit! Tour East Hall, learn how to apply for student
housing, and about athletics and student life at Jefferson.
RSVP online at www.sunyjefferson.edu/openhouse. Have questions?
Call the JCC Welcome Center at 315-786-6567 or email
admissions@sunyjefferson.edu.
News from JCC’s Continuing
Education Division
Kids College a Success
Campus was alive with activity this summer as kids expanded
their knowledge through the exploration of science, technology,
engineering, art, and math (S.T.E.A.M.) workshops offered through
Continuing Education. This was the first year for Continuing Education
to offer Kids College on campus, and, from all accounts it
was a success! On any given morning or afternoon kids were seen
making their way to Keyboard Piano Kamp, Art Mania, Archery,
Digital Photography, Bridge Building, Rocket Building, or playing
Quidditch on the quad.
Continuing Education also offered a week long enhanced workshop
experience for kids beginning at eight in the morning and
ending at four in the afternoon Monday through Thursday each
week in July. Called Full S.T.E.A.M Ahead, the program included
hands on activities and projects for the kids that focused on science,
technology, engineering, art, and math. Youth and adult
workshops combined brought in more than four-hundred-andfifteen
registrations!
Workshops offer Something for Everyone
JCC offers professional growth, personal enrichment, pre-certification,
and a wine appreciation and education series of noncredit
workshops. Programming is offered year round and the fall
workshop schedule is open to registrations. Adult learners should
be sure to check out the offerings. You can enhance your professional
status by becoming a Notary, or have some laughs learning
ballroom dance! Workshops are scheduled on campus, off site
and online. The complete fall schedule is listed online at
www.sunyjefferson.edu/workshops.

Aspiring Musician
Builds Repertoire at
Jefferson
Phuc “Brian” Vo is every music professor’s dream come true! Originally from the
extremely hot and crowded Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Brian has been playing
the piano since the age of 5 and performed his first recital at age 11. He came to
the United States in 2013 as an international exchange student who attended Indian
River Central School District and performed in the high school’s orchestra
ensemble. With dreams of attending a prestigious music college and one
day becoming a concert pianist, Brian chose to cultivate his musical
talents and build his performance skills by starting college at Jefferson!
In addition to completing every music course possible at
JCC, Brian keeps his piano fingers fine-tuned by performing
alongside the JCC orchestra ensemble, volunteering as
secondary accompanist for the College’s official choir, the
Jefferson Singers, and performing a recital for the community.
“Brian has proven himself to be a professional
artist with an abundance of talent, having displayed
considerable performance abilities on piano, violin, and
voice,” says Dr. Lisa Scrivani-Tidd, JCC music professor.
“Most commendable is Mr. Vo’s exceptional dedication
to his piano studies.” When not in class, Brian
can be heard in Sturtz Theater where he practices
piano for countless hours.
While learning to play the piano comes naturally
easy for Brian, speaking the English language
is self admittedly his biggest challenge. “JCC
has helped me prepare to think and learn as a
college student and…. talk more,” said Brian as
he spoke about class participation and group
discussions. His academic efforts combined
with his dedication, hard work and commitment
to music made him the ideal candidate for the JCC
Outstanding Music Award he received at the Annual
Student Awards Ceremony in May 2015.
Starting the fall semester as a college sophomore, Brian
expects to join JCC’s Tau Xi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the
national honor society for community colleges, and looks
forward to resuming a role in the JCC music ensembles.
Brian anticipates graduating from Jefferson in May
2016 and transferring to Crane School of Music at SUNY
Potsdam or Eastman School of Music to major in piano
performance.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 15

Athletics
Cannoneer Hall of Fame Class of 2015 Inducted
Malcolm C. Biedekapp
Terry L. Biedekapp
Steven H. Brown
Melvin J. Busler ‘07
Cheryl A. Clark ‘86
Lawrence “Hank” B. Darden ’71
John P. Day
Michael F. Delaney ‘70
Jerry B. Flanders ‘66
*Peter N. Gaskin
Steven A. Howard ‘99
Marcia J. Laidlaw ‘69
Elizabeth “Bippie” Luckie ‘82
Dianne D. McCargar ’78
Thomas W. Myers ’68
John A. O’Donnell
John F. Penrose
Kenneth R. Puffer
Jennifer (Podvin) Richmond ‘03
Amy Jo Sipher ‘92
Charity M. Smykla ’97
*D. Rene Valentine
Robert Williams Jr. ‘85
Robert F. Williams, Sr.
Scott K. Wilson
Daniel P. Woodward ’77
Joy Williams Zimmerman ‘92
*awarded posthumously
The 2015 Cannoneer Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held in conjunction with
the JCC Distinguished Alumni recognition on Thursday, August 13, 2015 at the Watertown
Elks Club. The Athletic Hall Of Fame recognizes individual athletes and teams
who have exhibited outstanding athletic success or have had a positive impact on
Jefferson Athletics.
Honorees inducted into the Class of 2015 Cannoneer Hall of Fame are Charity M.
Smykla, Robert Williams Jr. and John A. O’Donnell.
Charity Smykla ’97 played on both the JCC women’s soccer and basketball teams. She
led the Lady Cannoneers’ soccer team to their first National Junior College Athletic
Association (NJCAA) Region III championship in 1996 while setting numerous athletic
records along the way. She currently teaches ELA at Copenhagen Central School and
has coached soccer, basketball and softball. She holds an associate’s degree from Jefferson
in addition to a bachelor’s and master’s degree from SUNY Potsdam.
Bob Williams ‘85 coached at Jefferson from 1994-1997 and led the Cannoneers to win
the NJCAA Region III Basketball Championship. Currently, he is the head coach at West
Virginia University Tech. He led his team to the National Association of Intercollegiate
Athletics National Tournament this year. Among the many awards bestowed to Williams
is the Mid-South Conference (MSC) Coach of the Year in 2009, MSC Championship
in 2012, and 300th College Coaching Victory in 2014.
John O’Donnell, a longtime supporter of Jefferson athletics, retired from the Watertown
Daily Times after 41 years as a sportswriter. John started covering sports at JCC
in 1972! He was one of five recipients to receive an Associate Press Award for covering
the Winter Olympics in 1980 and is a member of the Red and Black Hall of Fame. In the
community, his volunteerism efforts include service to the Samaritan Medical Center,
Hospice and the Lions Club.
This event was made possible through the generosity of Liberty Mutual Insurance and
Watertown Savings Bank.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 16

NJCAA Region III Division III All-American
Victoria Fusco, women’s lacrosse, 1st team
Kaitlin Brierton, women’s lacrosse, 1st team
Alyssa Crosby, women’s basketball, 1st team
Upcoming Alumni Games
Are you a Cannoneer who played baseball, lacrosse or basketball for
Jefferson? These alumni games are for you! Connect with former
teammates to reminisce, meet the current team, and play another
game. For more information, contact the JCC athletics office at 315-786-2232.
Alumni Women’s Lacrosse Game
Sunday, October 11 @ 10am
8th Annual Peter N. Gaskin Men’s Lacrosse
Sunday, October 11 @ 12pm
19th Annual Robert F. Williams Alumni Basketball Games
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Women’s tip off @ 12pm
Men’s tip off @ 2pm
JCC Cross Country Team Makes History While Running
With the formation of the first cross country team in the history of the college, 16
athletes are off and running this fall! Their season opened on September 1 with an
invitational held at SUNY Canton. “As a first year team we have some strong individual
runners and should be competitive at the conference and regional levels,”
says coach Daniel Godin. JCC’s cross country team has the opportunity to compete
at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region III level and in
the Mid-State Athletic Conference (MSAC). To follow the Cannoneers, visit www.
cannoneerathletics.com to stay apprised of the team’s meet schedule and results.
Chelsea Monroe Named Softball Coach
The Lady Cannoneers softball team has a new coach for the spring 2016 season!
JCC alumna Chelsea Monroe, of Watertown, holds the college softball record for
career steals and set a home run record at Utica College. She coaches the NNY
Bombers traveling softball team and will take the helm of the JCC softball team
next season. Interested players can contact JCC’s office of athletics 315-786-2232.
NJCAA Region III Division III All-Region Team
Kaitlin Brierton, women’s lacrosse, 1st team
Victoria Fusco, women’s lacrosse, 1st team
Lauren Labiendo, softball, 2nd team
Jessica Oliver, women’s lacrosse, 2nd team
Mackenzie Kidder, women’s lacrosse, 2nd team
Annette Rishe, women’s lacrosse, 2nd team
NJCAA Pinnacle Award for Academic
Excellence
This award is given to a student athlete who
earned a 4.0 GPA and completed 45 semester
hours.
Brooke Lalone, softball
NJCAA Superior Award for
Academic Achievement
This award is given to a student athlete who
earned a GPA between 3.8 and 3.99 and completed
45 semester hours.
Kathleen Coloney, women’s basketball
Deleha Decker, women’s soccer and softball
Lauren Labiendo, softball
NJCAA Exemplary Award for Academic
Achievement
This award is given to a student athlete who
earned a GPA between 3.6 and 3.79 and completed
45 semester hours.
Kathryn Beagle, women’s lacrosse and soccer
Caitlyn Graves, women’s soccer
Bryant Wentworth, baseball
MSAC All-Conference Team Awards (Spring)
Lauren Labiendo, softball
Hunter Thomas, baseball
Christopher Strough, golf
Nicholas Hughes, golf
MSAC Individual Golf Champion
Pearce Parsons
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 17

A Message from the Foundation Executive Director
Pay It Forward
The Pay It Forward movement is not a new concept. Some believe it dates all the way back to 317 BC where it was
used as a key plot concept for a play in ancient Athens. It became widely popular, however, in 2000 after Catherine
Ryan Hyde’s novel Pay It Forward was published and adapted into a film of the same name.
The philosophy of Pay It Forward is that through acts of kindness, we all foster a more caring community. One good
deed might not seem like much, but if everyone did something good for someone else, the cycle of generosity and
kindness can spark us to become better people and a better community.
I have been touched many times throughout my life by people paying it forward. When I was a high school graduate
getting ready to apply for college, my family did not have the means to pay for the college applications that
I was hoping to submit. My best friend’s mother, who was and is one of the most generous souls I have ever met,
quietly paid for my college applications so that I could pursue my dream of obtaining a college education. This act
of kindness stayed with me as I pushed toward my goal of receiving my bachelor’s degree, which I did with an intense
drive, achieving a 4.0 GPA. The philosophy of paying it forward has since become a guiding principle in my life
leading me to pursue a career in helping others. I feel incredibly lucky to now be in a position to help others achieve
their dreams of obtaining a college education.
Just a couple of week ago, my husband was at a local restaurant with some members of his troop for a going away
lunch. As they attempted to pay their bills, the waitress informed them that an anonymous patron had paid for their
meals. This act of kindness was not lost on these proud members of Bravo Troop, 6-6 Calvary Regiment, Fort Drum,
NY, as they make plans to Pay It Forward.
We each have the opportunity every day to show someone kindness. What will you do to Pay It Forward and start a
ripple effect of good deeds?
As the new Executive Director of the Foundation, I was interested in learning about the many scholarships available
to students attending JCC. What I found in looking back was a beautiful discovery. Featured on the next page are
two of our oldest scholarships demonstrating that the concept of paying it forward has been alive and well since
the College’s inception.
Lisa M. Familo
Executive Director

Looking Back…
Paying it Forward…
Watertown Rotary Club
Scholarship-Annual
Scholarship-Established
1963
The Watertown Rotary Club,
Club Number 4623, was
organized on October 14,
1914. Watertown was the
ninth club to be chartered
in New York State. The
formation of the Watertown Club was largely due to the efforts of
two merchants, Henry Butterworth and Lon P. Hall, and Secretary
of the Chamber of Commerce, Francis Lamon. The founders of the
Watertown Club charted the course which succeeding administrations
have followed. Good fellowship and community service were,
and still are, the principal objectives.
As Rotary grew, its mission expanded and Rotarians began pooling
their resources and contributing their talents to help serve communities
in need. Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self, exemplifies
the humanitarian spirit of the organization.
The Watertown Rotary Club Scholarship, established in 1963, is
Jefferson Community College’s oldest, active annual scholarship.
The club currently awards up to six scholarships in the amount of
$500 annually.
The Watertown Rotary Club Scholarship is restricted to residents
of Jefferson County with good academic potential demonstrating
financial need. Preference is given to a son or daughter of a Rotary
Club member.
The Jefferson Community College is immensely grateful for the
continued support and generosity of the Watertown Rotary Club!
Thank you for being a long-standing example of a civic organization
that believes in paying it forward!
Corporal William Brabant
Memorial Scholarship-
Endowed Scholarship-
Established 1968
Born on December 12, 1947,
William A. Brabant attended
Clayton Central High School,
graduating in 1965. He
completed his associate’s
degree in applied science
from Jefferson Community
College in 1967.
On November 14, 1967,
William enlisted in the
Army completing his basic
training at Fort Dix, New
Jersey. Promoted in Vietnam
to corporal, after having
completed tracking school
in the United States only ten
days earlier, Mr. Brabant was killed in action on October 8, 1968,
near Duc Pho, Vietnam, while serving as an infantryman in the 11th
Infantry Brigade of the Americal Division.
Remembering his brother, Peter Brabant said, “He was athletic, and
in high school he joined the football and wrestling teams. He loved
the outdoors and especially enjoyed being in and around water.
Today, I can still remember him traveling along the St. Lawrence
River in his Higgin’s boat. In the depths of fog concealing everyone,
people knew he was coming because his whistle always carried a
happy tune!”
As a remembrance of their brother and son, the Brabant family
created the Corporal William Brabant Memorial Scholarship
in 1968. They wanted his legacy of education and willingness to
thrive to live on in other students. The scholarship is awarded to
two students each year, graduates of the Thousand Islands Central
School District. One for a new freshman student, and the other for
a continuing student at JCC.
The Jefferson Community College Foundation is incredibly appreciative
of the Brabant family’s generosity and desire to turn a
tragic event into an extraordinary act of kindness; a true testament
to paying it forward!
For more information about either of these scholarships, please
visit www.sunyjefferson.edu/alumni-friends/jcc-foundation.
What’s New
Italian Arts Travel Abroad Scholarship
Opportunity for Summer 2016!
Sponsored by the Estate of Mrs. Frederick H. (Aline) Taylor of
Watertown, the Italian Art Scholarship allows students to spend
the month of July studying art at the Scuola Lorenzo de’Medici
in Florence, Italy. Each scholarship covers the cost of travel,
tuition, lodging, books, art supplies and meals. Students
are required to complete course(s) at the
Scuola Lorenzo de’Medici for which they will
be awarded college credit.
Student applicants must complete at
least 24 credit hours by the end of the
spring 2016 semester, have a grade point
average of 2.5 or above, and be enrolled
full-time at Jefferson in both the Fall 2015
and Spring 2016 semesters. Candidates are
also required to have taken at least one college
level art class prior to the trip.
The Italian Arts Scholarship application will be available November
2, 2015 at www.sunyjefferson.edu.
Beginning in the spring of 2016, Jefferson Community College will
begin using AcademicWorks, the leading provider of scholarship
management solutions for colleges, universities, and foundations.
The AcademicWorks Scholarship Management Module is
used by hundreds of institutions and foundations to improve the
compliance, utilization, and stewardship of scholarship funds,
while improving service to students, donors, and the community.
The Scholarship Management Module provides a central place for
financial aid and foundation staff to access all scholarship information
across campus and easily match students to the scholarships
best suited for them. Stay tuned for more information about this
innovative advancement!
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 19

Foundation Board Member
Highlight
Heather Johnson joined the JCC
Foundation Board in September
2013 representing Car-Freshner
Corporation. Heather is originally from
Silver Creek, NY. She graduated from
Wheaton College in Norton, MA with
a double major in mathematics and
economics. From Wheaton, she went
on to attend the University of Virginia in
Charlottesville, VA where she graduated
with a master’s degree in economics.
Heather worked for John Hancock Financial Services in Boston,
MA as a financial analyst for four years before moving back to
the Western New York area to be closer to family. For the next
four years she worked as an adjunct professor at SUNY Fredonia,
teaching mathematics, economics and computer programming.
She and her family relocated once again to the New England area
where Heather began working for Tom’s of Maine in Kennebunk,
ME. She started with the company as a market analyst, but quickly
moved into brand marketing where she found her passion. When
the opportunity arose seven years later to come back to New York
State and work as a brand manager for Car-Freshner Corporation,
Heather jumped at the chance. She has been with Car-Freshner
now for three years and absolutely loves her job. Heather lives with
her husband and three children in Henderson Harbor, NY and they
love the Northern New York area and all that it has to offer.
When Heather was asked by Car-Freshner to consider representing
the company on the JCC Foundation Board, she was more
than happy to do so. She has always felt strongly about higher
education and admires the SUNY system of schools. Her father
was an English teacher at Erie Community College South Campus
in Orchard Park, NY for over 35 years before retiring just a few
years ago, so she has known community college life for as long as
she can remember. She believes in the power of knowledge and
education and that it should be something available to anyone
that is looking to learn and better their life. She is proud to serve
Car-Freshner and JCC as an active board member and writes, “It is a
privilege to help cultivate relationships, develop donors and raise
funds to support the amazing students that attend JCC and further
the goals of the College.”
Scholarship Donor
Highlight
By: Dawn Robinson
Robinson Family Scholarship
I am originally from Rochester, NY
and coming to Jefferson was the first
experience I had as a college student.
Being on a college campus was a challenging
yet inspiring experience. I am a
1997 graduate of Jefferson. I give much
credit to my success to the faculty and
staff that supported and assisted me in
finding my passion for teaching (Cherie
Ditch and Courtney Bauer). I didn’t start out knowing that I wanted
to become a teacher. I began at Jefferson as a math/science major
who wanted to become an environmental conservation officer.
(That didn’t work out so well!) I then transferred to the business
division where I became a Retail Business Management AAS student.
By the time I finished at Jefferson I had found my passion for
instruction and upon completion of my degree, I continued onto
Nazareth College to pursue my bachelor’s degree in business and
distributive education. I finished at Nazareth and couldn’t wait to
return to the North Country to continue my education at Potsdam
and to begin my career. I taught for nine years at Watertown
High School. After losing my position due to budget constraints, I
received the amazing opportunity to join the Jefferson family not
as a student but as a faculty member. I am thankful each semester
for the opportunities I have received.
As a faculty alumnus, I felt it was important to give back to the
institution that gave me my start. I felt a great connection to Jefferson
and its potential students. With rising high school budget
constraints, students are unable to experience some of the elective
classes that I was able to take as a student that prepared me for the
rigor of the college experience.
I heard of a high school senior who had taken all of the college
credit-bearing EDGE classes available to her at her home school.
She has been accepted to Coastal Carolina University and will be
pursuing a business degree with a concentration in marketing. She
wanted the experience of attending a face-to-face college class prior
to beginning her program in the fall. The student, because she is
considered a high school student, did not qualify for any financial
aid, and she was not able to apply for any scholarships. High school
students have a greater financial need than the average student
because they hold part-time jobs at best. Many high school seniors
would choose an easy schedule for their last semester and coast
to graduation. This student chose to seek a challenging schedule
of attending class three days a week and returning to her home
school where she carries a full load of classes, participates in
extracurricular activities such as the school musical, volunteers in
her community, is an active member in Stage Notes, a local drama
organization that not only performs but raises funds for the Urban
Mission. She is also a leader on the softball team. Watching this
student’s dedication to her community and her learning inspired
me. I established a scholarship for her and others who are seeking
the challenge of taking a class at Jefferson while still in high
school. I hope they may begin to realize “There really is more here”
at Jefferson!
Upcoming Sessions at Jefferson
• Fall late session (8-week) classes start
October 21
• Winterim (4-week) classes start
December 23 online and December 28 on
campus
• Spring semester classes begin
January 25, 2016
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 20

Scholarship Highlight
Donald Miller Memorial Scholarship
In February 2015, Jefferson Community College established the
Donald Miller Memorial Scholarship with contributions from college
faculty, staff, and retirees to honor the memory of their former
colleague.
Don was an admirable man whose life was dedicated to serving
others. He became part of the Jefferson family in 1997 as Dean
of Enrollment Management and Student Life. Before coming to
Jefferson, he served as Dean of Students at the University of Dallas
in Irving, TX, Associate Dean of Students at Colgate University,
Director of Student Activities at SUNY Binghamton’s Harper College
of Arts & Sciences, and as Director of a residence hall at West
Virginia University. Don received his undergraduate degree from
Ohio University and earned a master of arts degree in educational
administration from Case-Western Reserve University. In addition,
he completed forty-four hours towards a doctorate in educational
administration at West Virginia University.
Friends at Jefferson recall Dean Miller’s amiable personality and his
welcoming smile. He is remembered by his colleagues for his kindness
and positive outlook. Don retired from Jefferson in 2005 and
returned to his Texas home. Each summer after his retirement, he
would return to the North Country to visit friends and stay on the
lake at Cape Vincent, something that he and his wife, Pat, enjoyed
so much. Don is dearly missed by his family and friends.
The Jefferson Community College Foundation is thankful to the
many individuals who helped establish this scholarship and is honored
to be able to continue Dean Miller’s commitment to students
at Jefferson Community College.
Pavers, A Perfect Way to Make a Mark on
Campus!
Community members and Jefferson students, alumni, faculty and
staff are invited to leave their mark on campus with a personalized
commemorative paver. Honor a graduate, friend, or favorite professor,
remember a loved one, celebrate a special occasion or thank
someone special. Engraved pavers, available in three different
sizes, will be placed in the area surrounding the Haas Clocktower,
a focal point at the center of campus, to be enjoyed for years to
come.
Contact the JCC Foundation at 315-786-2458,
foundation@sunyjefferson.edu, or go to
www.sunyjefferson.edu/pavers for order information. Pavers are
installed annually during the fall.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 21

A Message from Jefferson’s Alumni Development Officer
Autumn is upon us, sneaking slowly up as the days shorten and the air gets crisp. Many times we think of the
autumn season as a time of harvest, a time when life begins to retreat, a time to prepare for the long barren
days of winter in the North Country. However, here at Jefferson Community College, autumn is when new life
abounds!
New beginnings, new challenges, new faces! New ideas to explore, new friends to make, new experiences to
share. As alumni, we often look to the past … back to our days at JCC, back to our carefree college days. But
at this time of year, as we begin a new academic year, it is time for alumni to look forward by making a new
commitment to ‘pay it forward’ through our gifts of funds and mentorships. Every college depends on their
alumni to help keep costs down for students, and Jefferson Community College is no exception. But, for our
alumni, it’s not just about making college affordable and making important opportunities available for today’s
students. It is also about passing along the experiences that shaped our lives. By sharing of our experiences
through mentoring, we give insight and vision to students at the very beginning of their college path.
Jefferson alumni share a strong commitment to JCC, giving of themselves to enrich the lives of new students,
which is truly an investment in the future of our community!
Edie A. Roggie
Alumni Development Officer
Jefferson Community College 2015
Distinguished Alumni
Bauer, Class of 1988, who received the Jeffersonian Award for her
volunteerism, civic involvement, and humanitarian undertakings.
Congratulations to these extraordinary individuals!
To see a complete list of all of the JCC Distinguished Alumni recipients
honored through the years, visit our website at http://www.
sunyjefferson.edu/alumni-friends/past-distinguished-alumni.
Left to Right: Renee Bowers, Michael Steele, Courtney Bauer
Jefferson Community College held its annual Distinguished
Alumni and Cannoneer Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on
Thursday, August 13 at 5:30 p.m. at the Watertown Elks Lodge.
Three distinguished alumni were recognized for their professional
achievement and exemplary commitment to their community and
Jefferson Community College.
The 2015 Distinguished Alumni honorees are: Renee E. Bowers,
Class of 1982, who received the Professional Achievement Award
for her significant professional growth and leadership abilities; Michael
D. Steele, Class of 2000, who received the Rising Star Award
for exhibiting a promise for continued success; and Courtney A.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 22
Alumni Advisory Council
Highlight
Philip James ’14, knew that he wanted
to go into either business administration
or accounting, but didn’t exactly know
which one to choose. Philip looked at
multiple universities and colleges, private
and public, in an effort to decide. He had
not considered JCC because he thought
he wanted to attend a four-year school,
getting a bachelor’s degree and a job all in
a matter of four consecutive years. On the
advice of his parents, he decided to look at
JCC to see what was offered there.
Philip started attending JCC as a full-time student in the spring of
2012. In an effort to learn more about the field of accounting and
on the advice of his accounting professor, Philip transferred into
the A.A.S. in Accounting in the fall of 2013. During his tenure as a
student at Jefferson, Philip was involved in multiple committees,
clubs, events, and campus activities. The most important role that
he held was the student representative on the Board of Trustees,
which governs the College. In this position, Philip served as the
voice of the entire student body, working with administration,
faculty and most importantly, the students. Philip also enjoyed

working with other students through his employment with the
Learning and Success Center (LSC) as a student worker. While
working at the LSC, he was part of the Campus Orientation and
Registration Educators (CORE) group that headed up the entire
New Student Orientation each spring and fall. CORE employees
are some of the first people that the new student sees when they
come to orientation!
In the spring of 2013, Philip was approached by a fellow student
to add his name to the ballot to run in the Student Government Association
elections for the student trustee position, which he won,
beginning his term July, 2013. Throughout Philip’s term as trustee,
he met regularly with administration to discuss student concerns
and thoughts and ideas for growth. This was a position that Philip
enjoyed immensely, learning about policy, strategic growth and
what makes JCC the best community college in the area!
After graduation, Philip was asked to sit on the Alumni Advisory
Council, which he did with the utmost commitment and enthusiasm!
He is currently working full-time as a finance clerk for a
non-profit organization and is pursuing a bachelor’s in business
(BS), with the hope of pursuing a master’s in accounting (MSA) or a
master’s in business (MBA). Philip’s career goal is to become a certified
public accountant and he credits JCC for helping to make his
dream possible, writing “Jefferson Community College made me
who I am today! Thank you JCC for all you have done for me and
for all 20,000+ graduates!”
Alumni Wine Cruise - Ahoy, Mates!
A great group of JCC alumni toured the beautiful waters of the St.
Lawrence River on the alumni wine cruise, July 16, 2015, guided
by the wonderful folks at Coyote Moon Vineyards, Clayton, NY and
hosted by John and Betsy Penrose and Marie Hess.
Alumni-Owned Business Highlight: Caring for
Our Community
Bethany Hughes, ’03, and Amy Kepler, ’03, became fast friends
while attending Jefferson Community College, each going on
to graduate with honors from the University of Phoenix with a
master’s in general psychology. The two friends recently opened
the Social Adult Day Center, Croghan, NY, to provide services to the
elderly. With the help of their family and friends, they renovated
the facility, having their grand opening in April 2015.
Amy, an Army wife, moved back to her native Wisconsin, where she
owns and operates two similar, larger facilities, and serves as owner/overseer
to the Croghan facility. Bethany resides in Croghan,
and operates the newest facility as executive director. The two
partners are in constant communication, and are assisted in the
Croghan facility by JCC graduate Crystal Roberts ‘14, assistant
director, who is also currently a student at Keuka College at JCC.
The mission of the Croghan Adult Care is to provide local families
with safe, uplifting respite care for their elderly and disabled family
members. Programming and activities are kept fresh and interesting,
and the business has just started to focus on overnight respite
care, as well. Participants are encouraged to work on social and
daily skills, getting involved in arts, baking, exercise, and community
outings.
Amy and Bethany credit the strong business foundation they
received at Jefferson as well as their strong friendship, as keys to
their business success. Their commitment to their community is
one exemplified by many JCC graduates!
The captain and crew stopped the boat over the location of the
sunken ship that the cannon, now centrally located on the JCC
campus, was retrieved from and donated to JCC in 1967. A recovery
team was sent down from the 479th Engineer Battalion, Fort
Drum, to extract the cannon. It was then delivered to the campus
and the facilities department built the carriage for it.
This is a picture of several of the alumni in attendance on the wine
cruise over the location of the sunken ship that once carried JCC’s
proud piece of American history!
Left to right: Danny Haycock (River Guide), Bryon Perry, Audrey Oakes, Jayne
Perry, Mallory Scriber, Jan Godfrey, Philip James, Jeffrey Godfrey, Marie Hess,
Jeff Perrine
Left: Bethany Hughes, right: Crystal Roberts
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 23

Alumni Notes and News
Jonathan Bartholomew, ’97, has been named vice-president
and managing financial consultant at NBT Financial Services,
working at Syracuse Park Place office. Jonathan has over 12 years
of experience in the financial services industry, according to the
Post-Standard, and previously served as a financial consultant at
Community Investment Services Inc.
Bridget Fetterly, ’06, was recently honored by the Carthage
Lions Club with the Uplinger Award, bestowed to individuals
for exceptional community service. Bridget served four years in
the Army, and currently serves as a Carthage Savings and Loan
assistant vice-president.
Patrick Bourcy, ’87, is the senior vice-president of Wegman’s,
Rochester, NY. Patrick also sits on the Board of Directors at
‘Foodlink’ in Rochester, a national model for food distribution/
production to bring nutritious, fresh foods to low-income families.
Mary Ann Sayyeau, ’67, was crowned the very first Lewis County
Dairy Princess in 1965 and recently helped the organization
celebrate 50 years of supporting the dairy industry in Northern
New York.
Robert Tebo, ’67, was inducted into the Tupper Lake Lumberjack
Hall of Fame. After graduating from JCC and then St. Lawrence
University with a master’s degree, Bob served for over 32 years
in the athletic program at Tupper Lake Schools. Bob has seen so
many give so much of their time and support to not only him,
but to future athletes, reinforcing that it truly does take a whole
community to bring a successful athletic program to our children.
Ramon Blanco-Pabon, ’13, recently graduated from basic combat
training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, SC.
Sue Lyman Herse was a member of the first class of JCC. She
transferred to SUNY Oswego and taught school at South Jefferson
High School for 27 years. Sue has been the town historian for
Adams for over 25 years and is currently collaborating on a book
titled “Stone Houses of Jefferson County”.
Mary Wilsie, ’00, recently competed her MBA degree from Capella
University. Mary was a high honors office technology program
student at JCC, and has worked for many years in healthcare
administration.
And JCC “Love at First Sight” Story!
Michael Krickmire, ’70, and his wife, Mary, a graduate from
Jamestown Community College, met at SUNY Brockport when
they both were sporting t-shirts that read “JCC”. The ensuing
friendship led to a 38+ year love affair! The couple married in 1977
while still in graduate school, according to the Democrat and
Chronicle and they have been working together in the theater
community for over 30 years in the Rochester area, teaching
students the passion of the theater. They were recently honored
with the prestigious 2015 Rod Marriott Award for Lifetime
Achievement in Theater Education from the NYS Theater Education
Association.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 24

Upcoming Alumni Events
SETH AND THE MOODY MELIX
A CONCERT FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 26, 2016 • JCC Sturtz Theater
$3 in advance ($2 for Alums and Military);
$5 at door; 25% discount for groups of 50 or more
An interactive, multicultural journey designed to engage children’s
love of music and learning while promoting character education.
Songs address social and peer interaction, healthy living, the world
around us, and much more. Seth Warden is a 1995 LaFargeville
Central High School graduate. After graduating with a Master’s in
education from Albany’s College of St. Rose in 2010, Seth teamed
up with percussionist Brian Melick, and violinist Doug Moody, to
create songs that are not only fun and engaging, but are educational
at their core.
Upcoming Campus Events
RJ Mitte, Star of AMC’s
Breaking Bad, To Give
Keynote at JCC
Leadership Day
October 28
RJ Mitte played the role of Walter
White Jr., a character who has cerebral
palsy, on the AMC drama
Breaking Bad and it was a role he
could personally relate to! The
22-year old actor was diagnosed
with a mild form of cerebral
palsy at the young age of three.
After spending his toddler years
in leg braces, working with speech therapists and surviving as a
victim of severe bullying, RJ moved to Los Angeles with his family
and through a local talent agent, was cast in the Hannah Montana
show and then Everyone Hates Chris. RJ uses his success as
an actor, producer and model to help advance opportunities for
others with disabilities through organizations including I Am PWD
(Performers With Disabilities), the National Disability Institute’s Real
Economic Impact Tour, United Cerebral Palsy and PACER’s National
Center for Bullying Prevention. He speaks to students at colleges
and high schools across the country to inspire acts of strength and
kindness.
RJ will give the keynote address at Jefferson’s Annual Leadership
Day on October 28, 2015. The program was launched in 2008 to
enhance and develop leadership skills of high school and college
students. In addition to a keynote address, JCC’s Leadership Day
program features sessions on team building and goal setting.
In 2013, JCC’s Leadership Day Program received the Northeast
Region Program of the Year designation by the Association for the
Promotion of Campus Activities. Area high schools interested in
learning more about JCC’s Leadership Day Program should contact
the JCC Admissions Office at 315-786-2277.
NCWF Coffee House Reading –
Thursday, October 29
The JCC English Department will hold a weeklong North Country
Writers Festival (NCWF) beginning Monday, October 26. The
festival will feature daily contests and visiting authors. On Thursday,
October 29, a coffee house reading will take place to honor
the winners of the 2015 writers contest. The public is welcome
to attend! Coffee and refreshments will be provided. For more
information about NCWF events, visit www.sunyjefferson.edu or
contact the JCC English Department at 315-786-2328. The NCWF is
sponsored by the JCC Faculty Student Association.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 25

Michelle D. Pfaff was appointed to the Jefferson Community College Board of Trustees in 1999 by then-Governor George Pataki and is in
her third term as trustee. She served as chair of the Board from 2002-2004, chair of the Personnel Committee from 2008 to 2015, chair of
the Budget and Planning Committee from 2001-2003 and currently serves on the Personnel Committee. Michelle holds a bachelor of arts
degree in economics and history from St. Lawrence University. In 2010, Michelle retired from a 35-year career in banking serving most
recently as vice president of Community Bank. Michelle remains active in several North Country organizations while she and her husband,
Dave, spend their free time traveling. Recently, we chatted with Mrs. Pfaff on her tenure as trustee.
Has your view of the College changed since you first joined the Board of Trustees?
To quote the College’s tagline, ‘There’s More Here.’ More educational opportunities, a more inclusive community for learners of all ages,
more student success.
How, if at all, do you think the community’s view of the College has changed over the years?
I like to think they also see ‘there’s more here’ – from courses and traditional degree programs, to seminars and workshops for career
and personal development, to the Center for Community Studies surveys and speaker series, to events like the Fort Drum Rally held on
campus in March.
What are some of the biggest changes you have seen occur at the College?
The onset and subsequent growth of online courses is a big change. Also, the development of the Higher Education Center.
During your 17-year tenure as a trustee, of what accomplishments are you most proud?
I’m proud at how responsive the College is to the needs of the community. Over the years we have offered degrees in EMS, dental
hygiene (through a partnership), a weekend option for the nursing program and developed more flexible courses, in particular those offered
on Fort Drum. The Higher Education Center brings bachelor’s and master’s programs to the community through partnerships with
other colleges. And, the variety of non-credit courses for career and personal development continues to grow. Personally I’ve enjoyed
many workshops including the Great Decisions seminar and ballroom dancing.
I’m also proud of the high marks that students give the College after they leave Jefferson – our rankings for quality of education and the
variety of student life activities are the highest among JCC’s peers in SUNY. But, perhaps I’m most proud that Jefferson has the highest
graduation rate of all community colleges in New York!
What challenges lie ahead for Jefferson?
Enrollment will always pose a challenge. High school populations are flat or declining. Like most community colleges, we see fluctuations
due to the cyclical nature of the economy, but unique to Jefferson are the ups and downs related to what is happening on Fort Drum with
both deployments and sequestration.
What is your favorite activity or event at Jefferson?
My favorite event is the annual Recognition Celebration held in May. It is a fun event where we have the opportunity to recognize faculty
and staff and celebrate their contributions and dedication to the College.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 13 • 26

In the Spotlight
Associate Professor of Computer Science Jack Donato joined Jefferson in 1990 and currently chairs the computer science/energy department.
He holds an associate’s degree from Jefferson Community College, a bachelor’s degree from the Institute of Technology at Utica/
Rome and a master’s in education from SUNY Potsdam. Jack also received a 2015 Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Who do you consider your mentor and why?
Dr. Charles Echelbarger, who was a philosophy professor at Oswego, really changed my view of teaching. It was a class in critical thinking
and Dr. Echelbarger asked questions all semester. Not once did he state anything - he just kept asking us questions. It was very, very
powerful. It caused us to think and examine the topics for ourselves and discover the content he was teaching. I try to emulate that
experience for my students at Jefferson.
What is your favorite annual campus event or activity and why?
My favorite “event” is not really an event per se’. I like the end of the second week of classes. The students know you a bit better and you
know them a bit better. They are less reserved, but they are also not feeling the pressure of the grades and assignments, etc. It is the time
of the semester where there is a nice classroom environment that allows us to dig into the material and discuss it without the pressure
and angst of the outcomes.
What is your favorite book and why?
I read a lot. OK, my Mom reads a lot as she can finish a novel in a day - she works in a library so she has access to lots of new books. I read
technical stuff. Computer science changes quickly, which means I have to keep up on it. If you think about the technology you were
using 27 years ago (when I started teaching) and what it looks like today, you would say it has changed dramatically. It would stand to
reason that the stuff under the hood has had to change with it, right? There you go - I read a lot.
What do you enjoy most about teaching computer science?
I believe every topic in every discipline can give you something to make you better prepared. I do love my discipline, but my favorite
part of teaching is when the student sees the “light bulb” come on and it does not have to be the topic at hand. There are things students
learn that are every bit as important as the course material.
What is your most significant personal accomplishment?
My children are what I am most proud of personally. They are well-adjusted,
good people. I adore them and enjoy watching them grow.
Who is your favorite superhero and why?
I am not too sure I have a favorite superhero. I have enjoyed all of the
Avenger-related stuff lately, but I still like the idea of the odd-ball, off-the-wall
ones like the Tick, and the ones from Mystery Men (Mr. Furious, the Shoveler,
etc.). I think I like them because they are kind of ordinary people who want to
help make things better. They aren’t in the lime-light and they want to help
out. They are more substance than show. I like that in people.
If you could give your students one piece of advice to carry throughout their
lives, what would it be?
There is no short path to effective change. If you have a goal, make a realistic
plan and then follow it. I truly believe people can be anything they desire, but
the other part of that idea is that they have to work for it. And, please, do it
right. An old adage comes to mind, “There is never enough time to do it right,
but there is always time to do it a second time.”

Jefferson Community College
1220 Coffeen Street
Watertown, NY 13601
(315) 786-2200
www.sunyjefferson.edu
Our Vision
Jefferson Community College will be a dynamic educational leader, transforming
lives and our community.
Our Mission
Learning is the focus of Jefferson Community College. Through excellence in
teaching, innovative services, and community partnerships, the College advances
the quality of life of our students and community.
Volume Thirteen • Fall 2015