Lauren Kent Math and Science Major Travels to Africa See her story on page 4

<strong>Lauren</strong> <strong>Kent</strong>,
<strong>Math</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Science</strong> <strong>Major</strong> <strong>Travels</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>Africa</strong>
<strong>See</strong> <strong>her</strong> s<strong>to</strong>ry on page 4

3
A
Table of Contents
Message from
the President
4-5
<strong>Science</strong> & <strong>Math</strong>
in <strong>Africa</strong>
Jefferson Community College
1220 Coffeen Street
Water<strong>to</strong>wn, NY 13601
State University of New York
Sponsored by Jefferson County
6-7
Campus Updates
8-9
Upcoming Events
----- Board of Trustees -----
James P. Scordo, Chair
Terry N. Fralick, Vice Chair
Cailey M. Burrows, Student Trustee
10-11 Fall
Commencement
18-19
12
14-17
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
Hannah Roukous, (315) 786-2500, hroukous@sunyjefferson.edu
David Bowhall, (315) 786-2383, dbowhall@sunyjefferson.edu
Norah Machia, Contributing writer
His<strong>to</strong>ry of the
Cannon
13 Keeping Cool Jefferson Athletics
Foundation News
23
27
Trustee Spotlight
In the Spotlight
Insta
20-22
24-26
Healthcare Career
Success
Alumni News
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
<strong>to</strong> providing equal access <strong>to</strong> its educational
programs, activities, <strong>and</strong> facilities <strong>to</strong> all
ot<strong>her</strong>wise 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
ot<strong>her</strong> category protected by applicable
state or federal law. An Equal Opportunity
employer, JCC also affirms its commitment
<strong>to</strong> nondiscrimination in its employment
policies <strong>and</strong> practices. In compliance with
Title IX of the Education Amendments of
1972, JCC prohibits sex discrimination,
including sexual harassment.

A Message from the President
“Everyone is entitled <strong>to</strong> his own opinion, but not his own
facts.”
Daniel Patrick Moynihan, former U.S. Sena<strong>to</strong>r
I recently attended the Association of Community College Trustees National
Legislative Summit in Washing<strong>to</strong>n D.C. The purpose of the conference was
<strong>to</strong> educate community college leaders on proposed federal policy items <strong>and</strong>
encourage leaders <strong>to</strong> engage in advocacy activities with our elected officials.
My doc<strong>to</strong>ral degree is in public administration <strong>and</strong> so you can just imagine how
intrigued I was with all of the policy discussion regarding America’s Promise (free
community college), revisions <strong>to</strong> the Pell program (student grants), <strong>and</strong> revisions
<strong>to</strong> the federal loan program <strong>to</strong> name just a few.
We spent a lot of time on one simple fact: student debt is growing larger <strong>and</strong> more
burdensome every year. More college students are borrowing money <strong>to</strong> attend
college <strong>and</strong> significant numbers of those students are not paying back those loans
on time. Community colleges are more affordable than ot<strong>her</strong> sec<strong>to</strong>rs of hig<strong>her</strong>
education <strong>and</strong> yet our students are not leaving debt free. At Jefferson Community
College, 46.9% of our students have debt when they leave the college <strong>and</strong> the
average debt amount is $8,872. Our latest default rate, which measures how many
students are in default three years after finishing at Jefferson, is 15.5%.
The facts are clear, however, the opinions about what <strong>to</strong> do are varied <strong>and</strong> the
proposed solutions are complex. Some proposals, such as America’s Promise, will
reduce the need for students <strong>to</strong> take out loans in the first place. Ot<strong>her</strong> proposals
increase Pell by eit<strong>her</strong> making more students eligible or increasing the dollar
amount of an annual Pell award which should also reduce student borrowing. On
the opposite end of the spectrum are proposals under an umbrella called ‘risk
sharing’ which would have colleges responsible (or at least partially responsible)
for amounts that students borrow but don’t pay back. Perhaps it would help if
t<strong>her</strong>e were fewer repayment programs. The ideas are many <strong>and</strong> the differences
between hig<strong>her</strong> education institutions are also many. T<strong>her</strong>e is no one answer that
will fit all. I think we can all agree that we would like students <strong>to</strong> graduate with less
debt <strong>and</strong>, if they do have debt, we want <strong>to</strong> see it paid.
In Washing<strong>to</strong>n I had the opportunity <strong>to</strong> meet with Congresswoman Stefanik <strong>and</strong>
members of Sena<strong>to</strong>rs Gillibr<strong>and</strong>’s <strong>and</strong> Schumer’s staff. I thanked them for their
support of Jefferson <strong>and</strong> voiced my thoughts that helping students pay for college
on the front end was preferable <strong>to</strong> finding ways <strong>to</strong> better collect on the back end.
I know they listened <strong>and</strong> I know how committed they are <strong>to</strong> community colleges
<strong>and</strong> the success of our students. At the same time, I don’t envy the challenges they
face as our representatives with seemingly unending needs <strong>and</strong> limited resources.
While these are national issues, colleges need <strong>to</strong> do all that we can <strong>to</strong> help reduce
student borrowing by operating efficiently <strong>and</strong> keeping tuition increases <strong>to</strong> a
minimum. The scholarships made possible through your generous gifts <strong>to</strong> the
Jefferson Community College Foundation make a big difference <strong>to</strong> hundreds of
students every year. I’m particularly excited that the Community Schools Grant
we recently received includes a program <strong>to</strong> work directly with former students
who are at risk <strong>to</strong> pay back their loans. We will be watching the results from this
initiative closely.
Our students are counting on all of us.
Carole A. McCoy
President
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 3

Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 4

Jefferson mathematics <strong>and</strong> science major <strong>Lauren</strong> <strong>Kent</strong> spent three weeks in South <strong>Africa</strong> learning about
the impact of infectious disease as a participant of the study abroad Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) International
Scholar Laureate Program (ISLP). Her drive <strong>and</strong> dedication, combined with <strong>her</strong> passion for medicine, led
<strong>her</strong> <strong>to</strong> such an incredible learning experience, <strong>and</strong> <strong>to</strong> the realization of the tremendous amount of support
available <strong>to</strong> students at JCC.
<strong>Lauren</strong> is one of many adult students at JCC. She joined the U.S. Navy right after high school <strong>and</strong> all throughout
<strong>her</strong> enlistment she dreamed of a career in medicine. Jefferson has provided <strong>Lauren</strong> with multiple outlets <strong>to</strong> help
<strong>her</strong> on <strong>her</strong> journey. While she is drawn <strong>to</strong> the world of anesthesiology, <strong>her</strong> experience studying in <strong>Africa</strong> strengthened
<strong>her</strong> desire <strong>to</strong> work with doc<strong>to</strong>rs who specialize in infectious disease.
President of JCC’s Tau Xi chapter of PTK, <strong>Lauren</strong> was one of twenty-six students from all over the world <strong>to</strong> participate
in the 3-week PTK ISLP. One of the most difficult parts about participating in a study abroad program can
be the cost. Determined not <strong>to</strong> let the cost st<strong>and</strong> in the way of <strong>her</strong> dreams, <strong>Lauren</strong> sought advice from the JCC
community <strong>and</strong> began <strong>to</strong> seek a sponsor. After approaching one organization on campus, she was referred <strong>to</strong>
anot<strong>her</strong> potential sponsor, then anot<strong>her</strong> <strong>and</strong> anot<strong>her</strong>. Before long, she had the support of JCC’s Tau Xi Chapter of
Phi Theta Kappa, Student Government, Faculty Student Association <strong>and</strong> Jefferson Community College Foundation
in addition <strong>to</strong> local rotary clubs. <strong>Lauren</strong> was truly humbled by the response that she received. “I cried when I got
all these different sponsorships <strong>and</strong> scholarships,” says <strong>Lauren</strong>, “It was a really humbling moment for me that this
school, <strong>and</strong> all the different parts of this school <strong>and</strong> community were so invested in my success.” With the support
of multiple groups on campus <strong>and</strong> the community, <strong>Lauren</strong> was able <strong>to</strong> raise enough funds <strong>to</strong> completely cover
the cost of <strong>her</strong> trip <strong>to</strong>taling over $8,000.
During <strong>her</strong> time in South <strong>Africa</strong>, <strong>Lauren</strong>’s world view exp<strong>and</strong>ed tremendously, particularly <strong>her</strong> views on healthcare
outside the U.S. “Looking at it from a multicultural <strong>and</strong> cross cultural perspective, t<strong>her</strong>e were a lot of things that I
didn’t even realize that are so commonplace <strong>her</strong>e, are not even a consideration t<strong>her</strong>e,” says <strong>Lauren</strong>.
<strong>Lauren</strong> was hit hardest when she learned about the effect the spread of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) has
on the children left behind after their parents are taken by the disease. Child-headed households are not uncommon,
<strong>and</strong> children orphaned by HIV still carry the stigma of the disease. In such a traditional culture <strong>Lauren</strong> feels
that the education of children about HIV is paramount. “In order <strong>to</strong> shift the stigma associated with being infected,
you have <strong>to</strong> reach out <strong>to</strong> the children <strong>and</strong> educate them, so that a new generation is born with new ways of thinking.”
With <strong>Lauren</strong> spearheading the effort, JCC’s Tau Xi Chapter of PTK is taking on the initiative of procuring 500
copies of the children’s book titled Brenda Has a Dragon in Her Blood by author Hijltje Vink that explains HIV is a
live-able disease <strong>and</strong> with proper education t<strong>her</strong>e are ways <strong>to</strong> keep the dragon asleep.
<strong>Lauren</strong> actively encourages <strong>her</strong> fellow students <strong>to</strong> take advantage of the programs available that allow them <strong>to</strong>
exp<strong>and</strong> their horizons academically <strong>and</strong> as global citizens. “They want you <strong>to</strong> do well. They want you be successful,”
she says, “I think that JCC has been really great, the level of care that I got from all the instruc<strong>to</strong>rs is wonderful
<strong>and</strong> they really are invested in your success.” <strong>Lauren</strong> anticipates graduating in May with plans <strong>to</strong> continue pursuing
a degree in the medical field.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 5

December Nurses Pinning
Jefferson held a Pinning Ceremony for
weekend option graduates of the College’s
nursing program on December 17, 2015 in
the College’s Robert R. <strong>and</strong> Jean S. Sturtz
Theater. Seven c<strong>and</strong>idates for the Associate
in Applied <strong>Science</strong> (A.A.S.) degree in nursing
were eligible <strong>to</strong> take part in this special
program.
Front row (l-r): Chika F. Egorho, Stephanie S. Lopez,
Jenifer D. Lewis, Amber D. Gorham.
Back row (l-r): Elizabeth M. Cranker, Shyleigh M.
Gushlaw, Gabrielle R. McClain
Nursing Program at JCC
Ranked In Top 100 Best
Nursing Schools
Among two- <strong>and</strong> four-year colleges located
in the Eastern Region of the U.S., Nurse-
Journal.org ranked Jefferson’s nursing
degree program #74 out of a pool of 1,189
academic institutions. Ranking criteria is
based on 20 metrics across five categoriesquality,
affordability, convenience, satisfaction
<strong>and</strong> value.
Jefferson’s nursing associate in applied science
(A.A.S.) degree is available in a traditional
daytime format as well as a weekend
option. In the past four years, 99% of JCC
graduates have passed the NCLEX (National
Council Licensure Examination) on their
first attempt! JCC’s nursing program is accredited
by the Accreditation Commission
for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN). At
the conclusion of spring <strong>and</strong> fall semesters,
students who successfully complete the
nursing program at JCC are honored at an
annual Pinning Ceremony held in May <strong>and</strong>
December.
Learn more about Nurse Journal at http://
nursejournal.org/articles/americas-bestnursing-schools/.
Visit www.sunyjefferson.edu <strong>to</strong> learn more
about the JCC academic programs.
Center for Community Studies
Conducts 1st Annual
St. Lawrence County Survey
In December, the Center for Community
Studies at JCC released the findings of the
1st Annual St. Lawrence County Survey of
the Community. The primary goal of the
survey is <strong>to</strong> collect data regarding quality
of life issues of importance <strong>to</strong> local citizens.
Working under the supervision of the Center’s
research staff, JCC statistics students
completed 442 telephone interviews on
both the l<strong>and</strong>line <strong>and</strong> cellular phones of St.
Lawrence County adult residents during
the evenings of June 29-30, 2015. A similar
study has been completed annually by the
Center in Jefferson County since 2000, <strong>and</strong>
in Lewis County since 2007. For results of
the survey, visit the College’s website at
www.sunyjefferson.edu under “Community
& Business” <strong>and</strong> then Center for Community
Studies.
Annual surveys of the North Country communities
are sponsored by the Nort<strong>her</strong>n
New York Community Foundation <strong>and</strong>
the Development Authority of the North
Country.
NEWS
F R O M
A R O U N D
THE CAMPUS
Jeri Fairman Appointed
Associate Vice President of
Liberal Arts
Jefferson welcomes Jeri Fairman <strong>to</strong> the
position of Associate Vice President (AVP) of
Liberal Arts. Jeri joined Jefferson in 1989 as
a faculty member <strong>and</strong> advanced <strong>to</strong> the rank
of professor. In 2010, she served the college
as Dean of Curriculum <strong>and</strong> in 2013, she
was appointed the Dean for Instructional
Support, Assessment <strong>and</strong> Accreditation
during academic restructuring. In 2001, she
received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for
Excellence in Teaching. She holds a bachelor’s
degree <strong>and</strong> master’s degree from
SUNY Albany.
SBDC Advisor Receives
National Recognition
Maria Contreras-Sweet (left), Administra<strong>to</strong>r of the
U.S. Small Business Administration, <strong>and</strong> Robin
Stephenson, SBDC Advanced Certified Business
Advisor
The New York Small Business Development
Center (SBDC) at JCC <strong>to</strong>uts one of their
own who received national recognition in
November. Robin E. Stephenson, advanced
certified business advisor, was bes<strong>to</strong>wed
the 2015 Boots <strong>to</strong> Business Instruc<strong>to</strong>r of
the Year Award by the U.S. Small Business
Administration (SBA).
Out of 200 c<strong>and</strong>idates nationwide, Robin
was 1 of only 5 selected <strong>to</strong> receive the
prestigious Boots <strong>to</strong> Business Instruc<strong>to</strong>r
of the Year designation. C<strong>and</strong>idates of the
Boots <strong>to</strong> Business Instruc<strong>to</strong>r of the Year
Award are given consideration based on
best practices, planning <strong>and</strong> preparation,
instructional methods, evaluation <strong>and</strong> leadership
<strong>and</strong> management of a class.
Boots <strong>to</strong> Business is a training course for
transitioning military service members who
choose <strong>to</strong> use their skills obtained in service
<strong>to</strong> start a business. Robin presents the
Boots <strong>to</strong> Business program at Fort Drum on
a monthly basis through the Soldier for Life
<strong>and</strong> Transition Assistance program. Prior <strong>to</strong>
the Boots <strong>to</strong> Business program, the SBDC
offered a 3-hour entrepreneurship training
seminar at Fort Drum. When the Boots
<strong>to</strong> Business program rolled out in 2013,
Robin was able <strong>to</strong> make the transition go
smoothly, allowing Fort Drum <strong>to</strong> have the
new program go live more than a full year
ahead of many ot<strong>her</strong> locations.
“This is the second time that the Water<strong>to</strong>wn
SBDC at JCC has received national
recognition,” says Eric F. Constance, regional
SBDC direc<strong>to</strong>r. “The first time was in 2010
when we received <strong>to</strong>p honors as being the
#1 SBDC in the nation out of over 1,000
SBDCs <strong>and</strong> then <strong>to</strong>day, Robin Stephenson
being selected as one of the <strong>to</strong>p 5 instruc<strong>to</strong>rs
across the nation.”
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 6

Luncheon Held <strong>to</strong> Honor
Veteran Community at JCC
World War II veteran Fred Adderly (left) <strong>and</strong> Korean
War veteran Fred Lothrop (right) were special
guests at the JCC Veterans luncheon held on campus
November 9, 2015.
On November 9, Veterans Services at Jefferson
hosted a luncheon <strong>to</strong> honor veteran
students, JCC faculty, <strong>and</strong> staff. Seventyfive
veterans attended including special
guests Fred Adderly, a World War II veteran,
<strong>and</strong> Fred Lothrop, a Korean War veteran.
“Freedom isn’t free, <strong>and</strong> we pride ourselves
on serving those who served,” said Robert
Harding, (former) JCC Veterans Services Coordina<strong>to</strong>r.
“Anytime we can give something
back <strong>to</strong> veterans is a good day in my book.”
In addition <strong>to</strong> veteran camaraderie <strong>and</strong> a
scrumptious lunch, the day included an
overview of local services available <strong>to</strong> vets
provided by representatives of the Water<strong>to</strong>wn
Vet Center, the Water<strong>to</strong>wn chapter
of Feed Our Vets, <strong>and</strong> the American Legion
Post 61. During the gat<strong>her</strong>ing, JCC assistant
professor of English <strong>and</strong> military spouse,
Stacy Pratt, sang the National Anthem.
To keep these veterans going, each one
received a pound of coffee from Feed Our
Vets.
JCC Joint Recipient of Two
SUNY Awards
Programs aimed <strong>to</strong> increase veteran
student retention, Transitioning Veterans
from Boots <strong>to</strong> Books <strong>and</strong> Beyond (VB3)
at JCC <strong>and</strong> Jump Start at SUNY Can<strong>to</strong>n,
will be jointly funded by the State University
of New York (SUNY) Excels Grant
<strong>to</strong>taling more than $1 million. Research
states that one of the biggest obstacles
for degree completion among veterans is
the transition from the highly structured
military culture <strong>to</strong> a less structured, selfdriven
learning culture <strong>and</strong> this grant will
allow the veterans services offices at both
campuses <strong>to</strong> provide enhanced support
tailored specifically for veterans. Over 500
veterans are enrolled at Jefferson.
Additionally, Jefferson <strong>and</strong> SUNY Oswego
were jointly awarded a SUNY Excels grant
<strong>to</strong> formalize an existing initiative between
the partnering colleges called Start Now.
Piloted this year, Start Now provides a
structured pathway for students in New
York City <strong>to</strong> achieve their educational goals.
Students begin their studies at Jefferson
<strong>and</strong> then seamlessly transfer <strong>to</strong> SUNY Oswego
for bachelor’s degree completion.
For more information about JCC awarded
SUNY grants, visit www.sunyjefferson.edu.
JCC Awarded $500K
Community Schools Grant
Jefferson is one of only three community
colleges <strong>to</strong> be awarded a Community
College Community Schools Grant of
$500,000 over the course of three years.
The Jefferson Community School (JCS) will
provide centralized, on-campus services <strong>to</strong>
support the unmet health needs <strong>and</strong> the financial
barriers faced by students <strong>and</strong> their
families. Services planned for in the grant
include mental health counseling, health
exams, financial counseling, a food pantry,
emergency child care, <strong>and</strong> assistance with
transportation <strong>and</strong> tax preparation. For a
list of community partners, or <strong>to</strong> learn more
about JCS, visit www.sunyjefferson.edu.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 7

LaverneCox
AIN’T I A WOMAN: MY JOURNEY TO WOMANHOOD
Emmy-nominated actress, Laverne Cox will be making
an appearance at JCC on Saturday, May 7th at 8:00pm
in McVean Gymnasium. Laverne Cox is best known for
<strong>her</strong> role on the Netflix original series, Orange is The New
Black. In the series, she plays the role of Sophia Burset,
a transgender woman <strong>and</strong> inmate at Litchfield Penitentiary,
making <strong>her</strong> the first transgender woman of color
<strong>to</strong> have a leading role in a mainstream scripted television
show.
Outside of acting, Laverne Cox has become a renowned
speaker <strong>and</strong> activist, spreading <strong>her</strong> message of “moving
beyond gender expectations <strong>to</strong> live more authentically”
all over the U.S. Laverne’s work as an advocate does not
end with lectures <strong>and</strong> appearances. She both directed
<strong>and</strong> hosted a documentary titled Laverne Cox Presents:
The T Word. The documentary followed seven transgender
youths from across the country <strong>and</strong> shed light on
the challenges people of the trans community face. Her
work on <strong>and</strong> off screen as an advocate reaches out <strong>to</strong>
people from many different communities, empowering
<strong>and</strong> inspiring anyone who has faced discrimination <strong>and</strong>
encouraging acceptance of each ot<strong>her</strong>’s differences.
General admission is $10 for the public <strong>and</strong> free for JCC
students. Tickets can be purchased through JCC’s online
Box Office at www.sunyjefferson.edu, from the JCC
Student Activities Center, Room 4-100 (McVean Center)
or by calling 315-786-2431.
Brought <strong>to</strong> you by Jefferson Community College - Campus
Activities Board <strong>and</strong> Student Government, ACR Health,
Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York, Inc.,
St. Lawrence University SAFE Project <strong>and</strong> Walmart.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Hypnosis Show Coming <strong>to</strong> JCC April 8
Three, two, one, wake up! Hypnotist Brian Eslick is bringing his act <strong>to</strong> Jefferson on Friday, April 8
at 8:00 p.m. in Sturtz Theater. Are you excited <strong>to</strong> watch the show or excited <strong>to</strong> become part of
the show? Audience members are the star of this production! Eslick’s laugh packed program is
appropriate for all ages <strong>and</strong> admission is free.
Brian has appeared on Fox TV <strong>and</strong> at numerous schools, colleges <strong>and</strong> businesses along the East
coast. Author of Inside Hypnosis, Brian studied hypnosis for years <strong>and</strong> holds titles including certified
stage hypnotist by the Stage Hypnosis Center, professional stage hypnotist by Marc Savard
International, <strong>and</strong> certified consulting hypnotist by the National Guild of Hypnotists.
For more information, contact JCC Student Activities at (315) 786-2431.
Sponsored by the JCC Campus Activities Board.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 8

JCC Dionysian’s Club
Presents Boeing Boeing
Mark your calendar! On April 21,
22 <strong>and</strong> 23 the Jefferson Dionysian
Club will present the 2008 Tony
Award Best Revival of a Play, Boeing
Boeing.
Synopsis.
Boeing Boeing is a 1960’s French farce. Self-styled Parisian lothario Bernard,
has Italian, German, <strong>and</strong> American fiancées, each beautiful airline hostesses
with frequent “layovers”. He keeps “one up, one down <strong>and</strong> one pending”
until unexpected schedule changes bring all three <strong>to</strong> Paris <strong>and</strong> Bernard’s
apartment at the same time. Much of the damage control is left <strong>to</strong> Bernard’s
hapless, unsophisticated childhood friend Robert, <strong>and</strong> his sassy, put-upon
housekeeper Berthe. A Swinging Sixties romp, complete with mini-skirts <strong>and</strong>
a retro soundtrack it is one of the most popular farces produced <strong>to</strong>day, with
32 scheduled productions in the first half of 2016.
About the Direc<strong>to</strong>r.
The play is directed by local renowned playwright <strong>and</strong> Jefferson Community
College alum, Craig Thorn<strong>to</strong>n. A homecoming project for Craig, he played
the role of Robert in a production of Boeing Boeing while a student at JCC in
1983.
About the Dionysian’s <strong>and</strong> stage crew.
Boeing Boeing stars members of Jefferson’s Dionysian’s Club - Liam M.
Zaffora-Reeder as Robert, Wes<strong>to</strong>n Ebbrecht as Bernard, Christian Seymour
as Berthe, Samantha Marriam as Gretchen, Cayla Ross as Gloria, <strong>and</strong> Elise
Denney as Gabriella. Stage crew consists of JCC students Tera Newhouse,
production stage manager; Laura Oakes, costume designer; Wayne L<strong>and</strong>reth
Jr., assistant direc<strong>to</strong>r; <strong>and</strong> Patrick Crane, dramaturg.
Tickets.
General admission is $8 for adults <strong>and</strong> $5 for students. Tickets may be
purchased through JCC’s online Box Office at www.sunyjefferson.edu, from
the JCC Student Activities Center, Room 4-100, McVean Center, or by calling
315-786-2431. This performance is best suited for youth ages 14 & up.
Media sponsorships provided by WWNY/WNYF TV.
Jefferson Hig<strong>her</strong> Education Center
Open House April 27
You are invited <strong>to</strong> learn about the bachelor’s <strong>and</strong>
master’s degree programs offered in Water<strong>to</strong>wn
through the Jefferson Hig<strong>her</strong> Education Center (JHEC)
on JCC’s campus!
An open house will be held on April 27, 2016 from
12:30-2:00 p.m. in Jules Center Commons <strong>and</strong> again
from 5:00-8:00 p.m. in the Extended Learning Center
(Building E) at JCC. Drop in any time!
Representatives from Jefferson <strong>and</strong> partner institutions
will be available <strong>to</strong> meet one-on-one with interested
students <strong>and</strong> answer questions about degree programs
<strong>and</strong> admission requirements. JHEC partners include:
• Bryant & Strat<strong>to</strong>n College
• Keuka College
• SUNY Cobleskill
• SUNY Empire State College
• SUNY Potsdam
• SUNY Oswego
• SUNY Upstate Medical University
• The Greater Rochester Collaborative, a
partnership between The College at Brockport
<strong>and</strong> Nazareth College
Combined, these institutions are providing local
opportunities for seven program-specific bachelor’s
degrees, eight program-specific master’s degrees <strong>and</strong>
two advanced certificates along with the individualized
bachelor’s <strong>and</strong> master’s degree program opportunities
offered by SUNY Empire State College.
Bachelor’s degree completion programs include health
services administration, business administration,
criminal justice, culinary arts, nursing, early childhood
studies (birth <strong>to</strong> age 5), <strong>and</strong> social work.
Master’s degree programs include family nurse
practitioner, family psychiatric mental health nurse
practitioner, childhood education, literacy educa<strong>to</strong>r,
literacy specialist, curriculum <strong>and</strong> instruction, social
work <strong>and</strong> organizational leadership.
Visit Our Campus March 18….Open House
On March 18, come see for yourself what Jefferson is all about! Open house
will begin with registration <strong>and</strong> refreshments at 10:00 a.m. in the Jules Center
Commons.
During open house prospective students will have the chance <strong>to</strong> meet
faculty members in academic programs of interest <strong>and</strong> visit with representatives
from student support services. JCC student leaders will give a campus
<strong>to</strong>ur including a s<strong>to</strong>p at the residence hall <strong>to</strong> view a model suite. A “Facts <strong>and</strong>
Figures” presentation will provide information about the college admissions
process, financial services <strong>and</strong> student/residence life.
Register in advance online at www.sunyjefferson.edu/openhouse. Questions
should be directed <strong>to</strong> the JCC Welcome Center at (315) 786-6567 or email
admissions@sunyjefferson.edu.
A complete listing of degree programs <strong>and</strong> details
is available by visiting www.sunyjefferson.edu/jhec.
Parking for the evening open house session is available
in Lot E. For more information, please call the JHEC
office at 315-786-2265.
Kids College Returns This Summer!
Jefferson’s Continuing Education Division is excited
<strong>to</strong> host this summer’s Kids College programs <strong>and</strong>
workshops on campus. <strong>Science</strong>, Technology,
Engineering, Art, <strong>and</strong> <strong>Math</strong> (STEAM) is embedded
in<strong>to</strong> everything offered during these day-long
sessions. Kids have fun, learn <strong>and</strong> explore new
career opportunities. A full listing of programs <strong>and</strong>
workshops will be available in May. Please visit www.
sunyjefferson.edu/kids for more details as they become
available.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 9

efferson Community College held its Fall Commencement Ceremony
for December graduates on Friday, December 18, 2015. 192 students
graduated from Jefferson <strong>and</strong> 3 c<strong>and</strong>idates from Jefferson Hig<strong>her</strong>
Education Center Partners SUNY Cobleskill <strong>and</strong> Bryant <strong>and</strong> Strat<strong>to</strong>n
College earned their degrees. The College was privileged <strong>to</strong> have
distinguished professor, Raymond E. Petersen, give the keynote address at
the commencement exercises. Dr. Petersen, professor of political science,
joined Jefferson in 1984. Cedric L. Baggett, Water<strong>to</strong>wn, former president of
Student Government <strong>and</strong> a Fall 2015 graduate, was the student speaker.
Baggett completed his degree in liberal arts-humanities <strong>and</strong> social sciences.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 10

Cedric Baggett,
Class of 2015
Billy Jepma,
Class of 2015
Veteran <strong>and</strong> fat<strong>her</strong> of two, Cedric Baggett came <strong>to</strong>
Jefferson upon realizing that it was time for him <strong>to</strong>
get his degree <strong>and</strong> start following his dreams. Cedric
served seven years in the U.S. Navy <strong>and</strong> was employed
in the wind energy field when he decided <strong>to</strong> pursue
his dream of becoming a radio show host. Jefferson
was the first step on his road <strong>to</strong> success.
Cedric first moved <strong>to</strong> Water<strong>to</strong>wn <strong>to</strong> be closer <strong>to</strong>
family <strong>and</strong> from day one Jefferson was on his radar. In
August of 2013 Cedric enrolled in the computer <strong>and</strong>
information technology program, but by his second
semester he found a better fit studying humanities
<strong>and</strong> social sciences. His English <strong>and</strong> business classes
were among his favorites <strong>and</strong> he really began <strong>to</strong> feel
like he was on the right path.
Cedric’s involvement on campus is widespread.
He served as Marketing Manager of the Student
Government Association beginning in Spring of 2014
<strong>and</strong> later went on <strong>to</strong> become Student Government
President. He has also completed all of the required
goals for the National Society of Leadership <strong>and</strong>
Success <strong>and</strong> will be inducted in<strong>to</strong> the society in the
spring of 2016. Cedric also spent the summer of 2015
interning at the local radio station, Tunes 92.5. His
ultimate career goal is <strong>to</strong> become the number one
radio show host in America within ten years. Cedric
will attend SUNY Plattsburgh <strong>and</strong> participate in their
audio <strong>and</strong> radio production program. “I feel like I have
the full support of JCC holding me <strong>to</strong>get<strong>her</strong>. I wouldn’t
be <strong>her</strong>e without JCC.” Cedric also credits much of his
success <strong>to</strong> Frank Doldo, Direc<strong>to</strong>r of Student Activities.
He says, “Without the help of Frank Doldo I wouldn’t
be the leader that I am, I wouldn’t be doing what I
am doing <strong>and</strong> I would not be Student Government
President.”
Billy Jepma of Clay<strong>to</strong>n came <strong>to</strong> Jefferson in the Fall
2014 semester with the intent of pursuing his love
of writing. Now, having completed his degree in
humanities <strong>and</strong> social sciences with a concentration
in creative writing a full semester ahead of schedule,
Billy is looking forward <strong>to</strong> his educational future, but
also looking back on his great success at Jefferson.
Coming from a homeschool environment meant
that Jefferson provided Billy with his first traditional
classroom experience. Billy was pleasantly surprised
<strong>to</strong> find that his instruc<strong>to</strong>rs were everything he could
have asked for. “The quality of the instruc<strong>to</strong>rs was
what not only attracted me <strong>to</strong> Jefferson,” said Billy,
“but they are also what kept me <strong>her</strong>e.”
During his time at Jefferson Billy maintained an
outst<strong>and</strong>ing grade point average <strong>and</strong> graduated
in the Fall 2015 semester with a perfect 4.0 GPA.
He dedicated much of his time <strong>to</strong> the Cannon, the
student run campus newspaper <strong>and</strong> was appointed
edi<strong>to</strong>r in May 2015. Billy’s dedication <strong>to</strong> his academics
<strong>and</strong> his responsibilities <strong>to</strong> the Cannon did not go
unnoticed by his peers, or his superiors. “Billy has
outst<strong>and</strong>ing character,” says Andrea Pedrick, advisor
of the student newspaper club. “As edi<strong>to</strong>r he focused
on what needed <strong>to</strong> be done, he delegated the tasks,
<strong>and</strong> kept staff on track. It takes more than forty hours
of work <strong>to</strong> get a paper ready <strong>to</strong> go <strong>to</strong> the publis<strong>her</strong>.
Edi<strong>to</strong>rs balance life, college <strong>and</strong> the paper. It’s not
always an easy task. It’s basically like holding a
full-time job on <strong>to</strong>p of taking full-time classes.” Billy
intends <strong>to</strong> continue his education with focuses in
creative writing <strong>and</strong> film production <strong>and</strong> is currently
weighing his options as <strong>to</strong> w<strong>her</strong>e his aspirations will
take him.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 11

His<strong>to</strong>ry 101: Diving a Little Deeper <strong>to</strong> Learn about JCC’s Cannon
In the heart of Jefferson’s campus, next
<strong>to</strong> the iconic Haas clock <strong>to</strong>wer sits a
300-pound ironclad cannon. Over the
years, personal accounts of how the
cannon came <strong>to</strong> its resting place on
Jefferson’s campus have been shared
time <strong>and</strong> again. The most common
recollection is the cannon was recovered
from the St. Lawrence River <strong>and</strong> was a gift
<strong>to</strong> the College from the late Alex<strong>and</strong>ria
Bay restaurant owner Michael DeVi<strong>to</strong>, Jr.
Though lingering questions remained
unanswered.
In what war did the cannon serve with?
What ship did it sink? When was it
recovered from the St. Lawrence River?
Inquiring minds wanted <strong>to</strong> know, after all
the cannon <strong>and</strong> its his<strong>to</strong>ry are a part of
Jefferson’s his<strong>to</strong>ry. We dug a little deeper
<strong>and</strong> <strong>her</strong>e’s what we found!
Jefferson’s cannon, a short barrel four
pounder, serviced the French navy on
the schooner L’Iroquoise near the end
of the French <strong>and</strong> Indian War in 1759.
The L’Iroquoise sailed the waters of Lake
Ontario <strong>and</strong> the St. Lawrence River <strong>and</strong>
along the Canadian <strong>and</strong> U.S. border.
During the spring of 1760, the L’Iroquoise
was captured by the British <strong>and</strong> then
razed, repaired <strong>and</strong> renamed the H.M.S.
Anson. It was placed back in<strong>to</strong> service
until it was cast away by the British
in 1761 on a ledge of rocks in the St.
Lawrence River. In 1962, divers removed
French cannons from the Niagara Shoal,
located between Fis<strong>her</strong>s L<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>and</strong>
Fineview, that fit the description of the
cast away H.M.S. Anson. One cannon was
donated <strong>to</strong> the College.
From the deep waters of the St. Lawrence
River <strong>to</strong> the center of Jefferson’s campus,
the cannon is home w<strong>her</strong>e it continues <strong>to</strong>
make his<strong>to</strong>ry, albeit a gentler kind.
His<strong>to</strong>rical research provided by the Sackets
Harbor Battlefield Alliance.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 12

Keeping Jefferson a Cool
Place While Reducing Its
Carbon Footprint
Timely <strong>and</strong> ongoing maintenance of facilities <strong>and</strong> grounds plays a critical role in the College’s goal <strong>to</strong> become more energy efficient <strong>and</strong>
reduce its carbon footprint. In 2014, Jefferson installed an air-cooled chiller with four t<strong>her</strong>mal s<strong>to</strong>rage tanks outside the McVean Student
Center. The chiller plant is able <strong>to</strong> provide an energy efficient cooling method <strong>to</strong> a building that was constructed in 1966 without a cooling
unit. The McVean building houses the theater, gymnasium <strong>and</strong> fitness center along with offices. “We want college renovation <strong>to</strong> be as
green as possible <strong>and</strong> the air-cooled chiller is aligned with our green initiatives,” said Bruce Alex<strong>and</strong>er, direc<strong>to</strong>r of facilities.
The plant makes ice during off-peak hours at night <strong>and</strong> during the day, the ice <strong>and</strong> the chiller work <strong>to</strong>get<strong>her</strong> <strong>to</strong> cool the facility. Maintaining
a more consistent temperature throughout the building increases comfort <strong>to</strong> students <strong>and</strong> campus visi<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>and</strong> provides a more
positive learning environment. The project serves as a model for future projects including the new John W. Deans Collaborative Learning
Center (opening in March) <strong>and</strong> as an educational resource for students.
The ice chiller system was featured by the State University of New York as a project that aligns with Governor Cuomo’s REV (Reforming the
Energy Vision) Campus Challenge. Jefferson participated in a REV Campus Challenge Workshop panel in June 2015 in Albany <strong>to</strong> share this
model project with colleagues across the state.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 13

Jefferson: Launch Pad
<strong>to</strong> Healthcare Career Success
People who choose <strong>to</strong> enter the healthcare field typically have
a strong desire <strong>to</strong> help ot<strong>her</strong>s <strong>and</strong> want <strong>to</strong> make a difference.
Ot<strong>her</strong> fac<strong>to</strong>rs that make these careers attractive include strong
employment opportunities <strong>and</strong> competitive salaries.
Several former students <strong>and</strong> healthcare professionals recently
shared their experiences on how Jefferson helped them
achieve their professional career goals.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 14

Dr. Carla Over<strong>to</strong>n
At age 8, Carla Over<strong>to</strong>n already had the idea in <strong>her</strong> head that she would
someday become a doc<strong>to</strong>r. For one reason, “I was a wicked book nerd”
<strong>and</strong> fascinated with s<strong>to</strong>ries about people battling illnesses, she said. She is
one of four children of Ralph “S<strong>and</strong>y” Over<strong>to</strong>n, Adams, <strong>and</strong> Elaine Over<strong>to</strong>n,
Water<strong>to</strong>wn. Her mot<strong>her</strong> had also worked as a nurse for many years at a
Water<strong>to</strong>wn medical practice.
When she graduated from Water<strong>to</strong>wn High School in 2001, she was not
yet ready <strong>to</strong> spread <strong>her</strong> wings. “I was a homebody <strong>and</strong> at the time, t<strong>her</strong>e
wasn’t any particular college outside the area that I had a strong interest
in attending,” she said. She decided <strong>to</strong> enroll in the mathematics <strong>and</strong>
science degree program at Jefferson Community College, w<strong>her</strong>e she met
“some amazing professors, <strong>to</strong>ok some very interesting classes, <strong>and</strong> received
a lot of personal attention,” Dr. Over<strong>to</strong>n said. “I gained a lot of confidence
at JCC,” she said. “It prepared me <strong>to</strong> transfer <strong>to</strong> a four-year college.”
Pho<strong>to</strong> courtesy of AFM Pho<strong>to</strong>graphy
While at Jefferson, Dr. Over<strong>to</strong>n was awarded the JCC Outst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>Science</strong> Student Award <strong>and</strong> the Faculty Association Outst<strong>and</strong>ing
Student Award. It was not only through <strong>her</strong> classes, but also through <strong>her</strong> involvement in programs on the campus, such as tu<strong>to</strong>ring
ot<strong>her</strong> students <strong>and</strong> giving campus <strong>to</strong>urs, that helped <strong>her</strong> become more outgoing <strong>and</strong> confident, she said. Dr. Over<strong>to</strong>n also served as
Vice President of Student Government at JCC.
During <strong>her</strong> second year at Jefferson, she spent <strong>her</strong> spring break traveling with a group of physicians <strong>and</strong> ot<strong>her</strong> healthcare providers <strong>to</strong>
the Dominican Republic, w<strong>her</strong>e they worked out of a mobile clinic. That experience furt<strong>her</strong> reinforced <strong>her</strong> decision <strong>to</strong> enter the field
of medicine. After graduating from JCC in 2003, Dr. Over<strong>to</strong>n enrolled in the pre-med program at Cornell University. Staff at JCC were
instrumental in helping <strong>her</strong> with transfer credits. In two years, she earned a bachelor’s degree in <strong>Science</strong>-Human Biology Health <strong>and</strong>
Society from Cornell, applied <strong>to</strong> medical school <strong>and</strong> then decided <strong>to</strong> withdraw <strong>her</strong> medical school applications in order <strong>to</strong> spend some
time learning outside the classroom before starting the rigorous program of study.
She taught fifth-grade in a low-income area in Baltimore, Maryl<strong>and</strong>, through the Teach for America Corps Program, <strong>and</strong> also pursued
graduate work in Education at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. Then she decided it was time <strong>to</strong> return <strong>to</strong> New York State <strong>to</strong> finish
what she had started.
She applied <strong>and</strong> was accepted <strong>to</strong> Upstate Medical University, <strong>and</strong> graduated four years later in 2011 with a Doc<strong>to</strong>r of Medicine degree.
During <strong>her</strong> time at Upstate, she also worked in a few more medical assistance trips <strong>to</strong> underserved areas in Peru <strong>and</strong> Costa Rica. Dr.
Over<strong>to</strong>n then completed a three-year residency in pediatrics, also at Upstate Medical University, in 2014.
Dr. Over<strong>to</strong>n, 33, is married <strong>to</strong> Michael Walsh, an engineer in Syracuse. They have two daughters, Tessa, 3, <strong>and</strong> Holly, 1.
Danielle DeBona <strong>and</strong> Jordan Sawyer
Both Danielle DeBona <strong>and</strong> Jordan Sawyer knew they wanted <strong>to</strong> work in
the healthcare field after graduating from high school, but neit<strong>her</strong> was
sure which specific career path <strong>to</strong> pursue. The couple, who were married
last summer, decided their best option was <strong>to</strong> start at Jefferson.
Ms. DeBona, a 2009 graduate of General Brown Central School District,
was awarded the Jefferson-Can Community Scholars Program. This
program of the Nort<strong>her</strong>n New York Community Foundation, in partnership
with the JCC Foundation, provides full tuition first-year scholarships
for students in Jefferson <strong>and</strong> Lewis counties graduating in the <strong>to</strong>p 15% of
their high school class, after all ot<strong>her</strong> financial aid is applied.
“After I graduated from high school, I <strong>to</strong>ok advantage of staying at home
<strong>and</strong> attending my first year of college for free at JCC,” she said. “I was
Pho<strong>to</strong> courtesy of AFM Pho<strong>to</strong>graphy
unsure what career I wanted <strong>to</strong> pursue at that time, so it made sense <strong>to</strong>
stay local <strong>and</strong> give myself time <strong>to</strong> figure it out.” JCC professors helped <strong>her</strong> gain practical experience by referring <strong>her</strong> <strong>to</strong> the Fort Drum
Regional Health Planning Organization, which provided <strong>her</strong> an internship in radiation t<strong>her</strong>apy. “I was able <strong>to</strong> shadow a radiation
t<strong>her</strong>apist <strong>to</strong> get a better underst<strong>and</strong>ing of what they did on a day-<strong>to</strong>-day basis,” she said. “After deciding this was the field I wanted <strong>to</strong>
pursue, t<strong>her</strong>e were many professors at JCC who helped me achieve my goal.”
One way was <strong>to</strong> make sure she had met all the prerequisites required <strong>to</strong> start at Upstate Medical University upon graduation from JCC,
she said. Not only did attending Jefferson save both <strong>her</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>her</strong> husb<strong>and</strong> money, but it “definitely prepared us <strong>to</strong> furt<strong>her</strong> our education,”
said Ms. DeBona.
(Continued on next page)
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 15

Jefferson has several transfer agreements with upper division colleges specializing in healthcare careers, including Upstate Medical
University, Syracuse. This arrangement allows students <strong>to</strong> meet prerequisite course requirements <strong>and</strong> earn their associates degree at
JCC, <strong>and</strong> then complete their junior <strong>and</strong> senior years in a bachelor’s degree program.
Ms. DeBona earned <strong>her</strong> associate’s degree in mathematics <strong>and</strong> science, with a concentration in allied health, in 2011. She then transferred
<strong>to</strong> Upstate Medical University, w<strong>her</strong>e she received a bachelor’s degree in radiation t<strong>her</strong>apy in 2013.
After working per diem at Mohawk Valley Radiation Medicine in Rome for several months, she obtained a full time radiation t<strong>her</strong>apist
position at Upstate Medical University. It was during that time she decided <strong>to</strong> furt<strong>her</strong> <strong>her</strong> education again. Ms. DeBona completed
some additional classes <strong>and</strong> was accepted in<strong>to</strong> Upstate’s Physician Assistant Program. She resigned from <strong>her</strong> position at the Syracuse
hospital in May 2015 <strong>to</strong> attend school full time, <strong>and</strong> plans <strong>to</strong> graduate in May 2017 with <strong>her</strong> Master of <strong>Science</strong> Degree in Physician
Assistant Studies.
Mr. Sawyer graduated from Copenhagen Central School in 2008 <strong>and</strong> earned his associate’s degree in mathematics <strong>and</strong> science in 2010
from Jefferson. “At that time Upstate Medical University had a distance learning partnership with JCC, so I was able <strong>to</strong> get my bachelors
of science in respira<strong>to</strong>ry t<strong>her</strong>apy attending classes at JCC’s campus as well as Upstate Medical’s campus,” he said. “I also decided
<strong>to</strong> enroll at JCC because it was affordable <strong>and</strong> close <strong>to</strong> home.” JCC professors “were always t<strong>her</strong>e for guidance <strong>and</strong> questions” <strong>to</strong> assure
that he would meet the prerequisite requirements for Upstate’s respira<strong>to</strong>ry t<strong>her</strong>apy program, he said.
Mr. Sawyer graduated from Upstate Medical University in 2012. After graduation, he began working per diem at Oswego Hospital as a
respira<strong>to</strong>ry t<strong>her</strong>apist. After a year, he <strong>to</strong>ok a position working part time as a respira<strong>to</strong>ry t<strong>her</strong>apist at Samaritan Medical Center.
Jillian Young
After graduating from Immaculate Heart Central School in 2010, Jillian
Young considered pursuing a variety of careers in the healthcare field. “I
initially wanted <strong>to</strong> be a pharmacist,” she said. “But I really wanted something
with more patient contact.” Shortly after beginning <strong>her</strong> coursework
in JCC’s mathematics <strong>and</strong> science program, with a concentration in allied
health, Ms. Young decided <strong>to</strong> study nursing <strong>and</strong> was admitted in<strong>to</strong> the
college’s nursing degree program of which she graduated in 2013. “The
professors in the program are very encouraging, they really want <strong>to</strong>
make sure their students succeed,” she said.
It wasn’t just the textbook preparation, but also the clinical rotations performed
by JCC students at Samaritan Medical Center that helped <strong>to</strong> best
prepare Ms. Young. “The rigor of the program prepared you for real life,
including the various trials that you experience as a new nurse,” she said. Pho<strong>to</strong> courtesy of AFM Pho<strong>to</strong>graphy
The rotations also helped <strong>to</strong> determine what type of specialized care
Jillian felt most passionate about. “As soon as I worked on the maternity floor, I knew that’s w<strong>her</strong>e I wanted <strong>to</strong> be,” she said. “I wanted
<strong>to</strong> work as a labor <strong>and</strong> delivery nurse.” After graduating from Jefferson, Ms. Young began working in maternity at Samaritan Medical
Center.
Taking <strong>her</strong> education <strong>to</strong> the next level, Jillian anticipates completing <strong>her</strong> bachelor’s degree in nursing from Utica College in May. The
following fall, she plans <strong>to</strong> transfer <strong>to</strong> Upstate Medical University’s Family Nurse Practitioner Program (specializing in women’s health)
<strong>to</strong> begin <strong>her</strong> master’s degree. Many of the classes, however, are offered on JCC’s campus through the Jefferson Hig<strong>her</strong> Education Center,
subsequently Ms. Young will be able <strong>to</strong> continue <strong>to</strong> live <strong>and</strong> work in Water<strong>to</strong>wn.
This semester, Ms. Young stepped in<strong>to</strong> a different realm of nursing as an adjunct clinical instruc<strong>to</strong>r under the direction of JCC faculty.
She currently works with a group of students once a week in <strong>her</strong> specialty area, covering <strong>to</strong>pics such as labor <strong>and</strong> delivery, neonatal
intensive care unit, <strong>and</strong> the newborn nursery. “It’s a wonderful experience <strong>to</strong> first give back <strong>to</strong> my alma mater, <strong>and</strong> secondly do something
that is in a different realm of nursing, <strong>and</strong> it’s also wonderful for me <strong>to</strong> share what I have learned since I became a registered
nurse,” she said.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 16

Pho<strong>to</strong> courtesy of AFM Pho<strong>to</strong>graphy
Tracy Hart
Tracy Hart decided <strong>to</strong> continue <strong>her</strong> education in the exp<strong>and</strong>ing field
of health information technology through JCC’s Continuing Education
Division. She recently completed a certificate training program that was
established at the College by the Fort Drum Regional Health Planning
Organization (FDRHPO) in response <strong>to</strong> the dem<strong>and</strong> for more people <strong>to</strong>
enter the health information technology workforce.
“I assist <strong>and</strong> advise healthcare providers in the optimal use of electronic
health records,” said Mrs. Hart, who is employed as a HIT (Health
Information Technology) specialist at FDRHPO. “Meaningfully leveraging
electronic health records technology provides patients with st<strong>and</strong>ardized
quality care <strong>and</strong> allows practices <strong>to</strong> run more efficiently.” Mrs. Hart,
who graduated from Indian River High School in 1991, is also completing
<strong>her</strong> associate’s degree in computer information systems at JCC.
“Both my health information technology <strong>and</strong> computer information systems classes have given me the necessary skills <strong>to</strong> successfully
assist <strong>and</strong> advise healthcare providers in the optimal use of their EHR technology,” she said. Attending Jefferson “has been
convenient for me while I work full time,” Mrs. Hart said. “I love classroom learning, especially when it involves a h<strong>and</strong>s-on approach
<strong>and</strong> student interaction. The professors at JCC have been amazing.”
In <strong>her</strong> position at FDRHPO, she meets on-site with staff at several medical practices <strong>to</strong> help them set up <strong>and</strong> build the needed templates
<strong>to</strong> transfer over <strong>to</strong> the electronic health records system. “Nationwide, medical offices are transitioning from paper <strong>to</strong> electronic
health records, eliminating some of the issues that paper records create,” she said. “I see the union of healthcare <strong>and</strong> technology
as constantly evolving.”
The organization has also worked <strong>to</strong> establish a Health Information Exchange, which allows numerous practices <strong>and</strong> clinics <strong>to</strong>
exchange information when treating the same patient. This includes lab results, radiology reports <strong>and</strong> images, along with medical
records.
As the delivery of healthcare becomes more complex, “technology will support healthcare providers in their attempt <strong>to</strong> provide the
best, most efficient patient care possible,” Mrs. Hart said.
Jefferson Community College offers a range of options for those interested in the healthcare industry, including both full<strong>and</strong>
part-time degree <strong>and</strong> certification programs as well as a weekend option for its nursing degree program. For professionals,
the JCC Continuing Education Division partners with various organizations <strong>to</strong> meet the dem<strong>and</strong>s of the exp<strong>and</strong>ing
healthcare industry <strong>to</strong> offer certification <strong>and</strong> pre-certification training programs. The College continues <strong>to</strong> partner with
4-year institutions <strong>to</strong> offer a variety of bachelor’s <strong>and</strong> master’s degree programs through the Jefferson Hig<strong>her</strong> Education
Center.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 17

Athletics
Malcolm C. Biedekapp
Terry L. Biedekapp
Steven H. Brown
Melvin J. Busler ‘07
C<strong>her</strong>yl A. Clark ‘86
Lawrence “Hank” B. Darden ’71
John P. Day
Michael F. Delaney ‘70
Jerry B. Fl<strong>and</strong>ers ‘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 Sip<strong>her</strong> ‘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
2015 NJCAA Men’s Soccer All American
Thomas Leech, men’s soccer, 2nd team
2015 NJCAA Region III All Region Team
Women’s soccer
Katie Aldrich, 1st team
Men’s soccer
Thomas Leech, 1st team
Volleyball
Cassie Birth, 2nd team
Jenna Scott, 3rd team
Chloe Stinebrickner, 3rd team
Women’s cross country
Kurstyn Macaulay, 1st team
Cori Mainville, 1st team
Reganne Smith, 1st team
<strong>Lauren</strong> Bianco, 1st team
Men’s cross country
Alex Hall, 1st team
2015 NJCAA Region III & MSAC Champions
JCC Women’s Cross Country Team
2015 NJCAA Region III Athlete of the Week
Kurstyn Macaulay, women’s cross country
2015 MSAC Runner of the Year
Kurstyn Macaulay, women’s cross country
2015 MSAC All-Conference Team
Men’s soccer
Thomas Leech
Matthew Guyette
Women’s soccer
Katie Aldrich
Byanna Gagnon
Women’s cross country
Kurstyn Macaulay
Cori Mainville
Reganne Smith
<strong>Lauren</strong> Bianco
Men’s cross country
Alex Hall
James Lamson
Volleyball
Cassie Birth
Chloe Stinebrickner
Jenna Scott
Women’s Cross Country Team Champions
of NJCAA Region III, Division III
JCC women’s cross country team concluded the fall season on
the right foot! Champions of the National Junior College Athletic
Association (NJCAA) Region III Division III <strong>and</strong> Mid-State
Athletic Conference (MSAC), the Lady Cannoneers competed
at nationals <strong>and</strong> finished in 11th place. JCC’s head coach, Dan
Godin of Philadelphia, was named MSAC Coach of the Year.
JCC Cross Country Team – Fall 2015
Front row (l-r): Reganne Smith, Megan Denise, Kurstyn Macaulay, Cori
Mainville, Nola Pominville, Andrea Smith, <strong>Lauren</strong> Bianco
Back row (l-r): Dakota Rookey, Michael McLane, Alex Hall, Nicholas
Kogut, Sam Maphey, Arthur Campbell, Evan Morine, James Lamson
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 18

Athletes Dream of Playing for Division I <strong>and</strong> II
Jefferson is a Division III school of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region III <strong>and</strong> member of the Mid-State Athletic
Conference. Many athletes, local <strong>and</strong> outside the area, get their first shot at college athletic excellence on JCC’s fields/court. As a result, many
Cannoneers have gone on <strong>to</strong> play sports for public universities <strong>and</strong> private colleges.
Katie S. Aldrich, Water<strong>to</strong>wn, put <strong>her</strong> dream of playing soccer
for a Division I school on hold when she decided moving away
right after high school graduation wasn’t the best option for
<strong>her</strong>. Embracing an opportunity made available by <strong>her</strong> high
school academic achievements, she <strong>to</strong>ok advantage of the
Jefferson-Can Community Scholar Program that offers first year
free tuition at Jefferson for students who graduate in the <strong>to</strong>p
15% of their class. Katie majored in childhood education at JCC
while playing for the JCC woman’s soccer team. After playing
two seasons as goal keeper, <strong>her</strong> confidence grew <strong>and</strong> with it, the
list of <strong>her</strong> athletic accomplishments. She was named NJCAA All-
American, MSAC All Conference team (twice), received the JCC
Outst<strong>and</strong>ing Female Freshman Athlete Award, <strong>and</strong> named JCC
Athlete of the Week. Her dream of playing soccer for Division I
rekindled. “She certainly has the talent <strong>and</strong> academics <strong>to</strong> play at
that level,” said David Bowhall, coach of the JCC women’s soccer
team. “Coming <strong>to</strong> JCC helped me get t<strong>her</strong>e,” said Katie.
On December 15, 2015 Katie committed <strong>to</strong> play soccer for
National College Athletic Association Division I college at
Canisius. “I don’t know if I would have been able <strong>to</strong> play Division
I soccer if I did all four years away,” said Katie. “It’s a great feeling
knowing that I won’t be in much debt when I am done with
school because I made some financially smart decisions.” After
completing Fall 2015 semester at JCC, Katie transferred <strong>to</strong>
Canisius College.
Hunter M. Thomas, Elmira, was born <strong>to</strong> play baseball. After
high school graduation, Hunter was recruited by Division II
Mansfield University. Reluctant <strong>to</strong> rush in<strong>to</strong> a life changing
decision, Hunter delayed. He chose <strong>to</strong> start at JCC <strong>and</strong> build a
strong foundation in athletics <strong>and</strong> academics. Playing baseball
for JCC has been a “life learning experience” says Hunter, due in
part <strong>to</strong> the motivation <strong>and</strong> influence of JCC baseball coach John
Northrop. “It’s tiring <strong>to</strong> juggle classes <strong>and</strong> baseball, but Coach
Northrop drilled us that grades are more important,” said Hunter.
His persistence on the field <strong>and</strong> in the classroom paid off.
On November 18, 2015 Hunter committed <strong>to</strong> play baseball
for Division II Davis & Elkins College in West Virginia. “Hunter
became very quickly a guy that I could rely on in pressure
situations as a freshmen,” says Coach Northrop. “He makes
difficult plays look routine <strong>and</strong> is very smart at the plate. Davis
& Elkins is getting a solid player, good teammate, <strong>and</strong> a model
student-athlete.” Hunter credits his JCC baseball teammates.
“I wouldn’t have s<strong>to</strong>len bases without them,” he jokes. “Living
on campus with five roommates gave me the opportunity <strong>to</strong>
meet ot<strong>her</strong> students <strong>and</strong> build lasting friendships on <strong>and</strong> off
the field.” Hunter, captain of the JCC baseball team, was named
<strong>to</strong> the MSAC All-Conference team, received the JCC Most
Valuable Player Award <strong>and</strong> JCC Athlete of the Week accolades.
He anticipates graduating in May after earning his associate’s
degree in criminal justice from JCC <strong>and</strong> transferring <strong>to</strong> Davis &
Elkins College in the fall.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 19

A Message from the Foundation Executive Direc<strong>to</strong>r
Scholarships: An Impactful Gift
“I drop kindness pebbles in still water every day, <strong>and</strong> I watch the effect they have on ot<strong>her</strong> people’s lives.”
~John A. Passaro
It is not an exaggeration <strong>to</strong> say that a scholarship can change the direction of a student’s life. Receiving a scholarship
makes a big impact on a student, <strong>and</strong> awarding a scholarship makes a big impact on a donor. Giving the gift
of education, helping a student get one step closer <strong>to</strong> their educational goal, is one of the most satisfying gifts you
can give. But, the impact of scholarships has an even greater reach. Not only do scholarships impact students <strong>and</strong>
donors, scholarships also have a direct impact on our greater community through degree completion.
Scholarships are the pebbles dropped in still water, creating ripples of positive impact.
With the cost of attending college continually on the rise <strong>and</strong> state funding stagnant or falling, students are forced
<strong>to</strong> bear an increased proportion of the financial burden. Not surprisingly, financial barriers are often the primary
reason students don’t complete their degree. Scholarships can help increase degree completion by reducing the
number of, <strong>and</strong> amount of, loans that students need <strong>to</strong> borrow.
Supporting scholarships is one of the simplest - <strong>and</strong> essential - ways <strong>to</strong> positively impact our workforce, our
economy, <strong>and</strong> our community.
To our donors, thank you for dropping kindness pebbles in still water <strong>and</strong> watching the effect they have on our
students’ lives!
Lisa M. Familo
Executive Direc<strong>to</strong>r
What’s New
The Chance of a Lifetime <strong>to</strong> Make the Gift of a Lifetime
On December 18, Congress passed the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, which renews <strong>and</strong> makes permanent the
Charitable IRA provision of 2006, making it easier for Americans <strong>to</strong> give <strong>to</strong> causes they care about. This provision has the power <strong>to</strong> help
local charities strengthen their communities by allowing individuals <strong>to</strong> roll over up <strong>to</strong> $100,000 annually from an Individual Retirement
Account (IRA) <strong>to</strong> charity without being federally taxed.
Annually, holders of traditional IRAs who are at least 70½ years old can make direct charitable transfers up <strong>to</strong> $100,000. Individuals may
exclude the amount distributed directly <strong>to</strong> an eligible charity from their gross income. The Jefferson Community College Foundation can
help donors execute the transfers <strong>and</strong> choose from several charitable fund options for their gift. Donor Advised Funds do not qualify for
tax-free IRA transfers.
Using IRA assets <strong>to</strong> make a gift during your lifetime, as opposed <strong>to</strong> giving via bequest in your will, enables you <strong>to</strong> experience the joy of
making a major gift. For anyone interested in establishing a permanent legacy in this community, this is a chance of a lifetime <strong>to</strong> make the
gift of a lifetime! For more information on the charitable giving legislation <strong>and</strong> the Charitable IRA opportunity, please contact Lisa Familo
at (315) 786-2291 or lfamilo@sunyjefferson.edu.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 20

Paver Dedication
On Oc<strong>to</strong>ber 15, 2015, the Jefferson Community College Foundation
dedicated 33 new pavers, commemorating those special
people <strong>and</strong> occasions represented by each paver. Each one tells a
unique s<strong>to</strong>ry that has now become a lasting legacy. Some honor a
graduate or a professor, ot<strong>her</strong>s celebrate a special event or occasion.
Some offer words of thanks <strong>to</strong> someone special <strong>and</strong> ot<strong>her</strong>s
serve as a memorial for a loved one gone <strong>to</strong>o soon. Each s<strong>to</strong>ry now
has a permanent place in the College’s rich <strong>and</strong> beautiful his<strong>to</strong>ry,
<strong>to</strong> be shared <strong>and</strong> treasured for years <strong>to</strong> come. And each s<strong>to</strong>ry now
serves as a building block for the future by supporting student
scholarships <strong>and</strong> service needs of Jefferson Community College.
If you would like <strong>to</strong> leave your mark on campus with a personalized
commemorative paver, contact the JCC Foundation at 315-786-2458, foundation@sunyjefferson.edu, or go <strong>to</strong> www.sunyjefferson.
edu/pavers for order information. Pavers are installed annually during the fall. Please submit your order prior <strong>to</strong> July 31st <strong>to</strong> be included in
the fall installation ceremony.
DARE TO DREAM
NANCY & FRED SCHMITT
SPIRIT OF JCC
PETER N GASKIN
BIOLOGY-37 YRS
LIVE TO TEACH
IN MEMORY OF
LUCINDA SMITH
LEARNING IS ESSENTIAL
THE EDMONDS
JOSEPH ARCHER
CARTHAGE N.Y.
1989
GEORGE INTSCHERT
CLASS OF 1990
IN MEMORY OF
DON & PAT MILLER
USMC/NYSP
NATHANIEL ‘95
TERRA HOPE ‘97
CHRISTOPHER ‘01
PAM & JEFF DIXON
CLASS OF ‘00 & ‘11
IN MEMORY OF:
PATRICK MOORE
NURSING 1987
LASALLE
MILTON JEANNIE
KATINA CORIE
MICHAEL W. SIMMONS
‘92 AND ‘93
JANE BATES
CLASS OF 1974
NURSING
PHILLIPS
MARK & GWENDOLYN
CLASS 1967-69
CLAYTON LIONS CLUB
PENNY, ROBIN &
MELODY BRENON
WE DID IT!
GORDON ‘99
KRISTA ‘01
FOREVER 8-5-00
IN MEMORY OF
JENNIFER DEANS BRUMBACK
IN MEMORY OF
THOMAS E. LOADWICK
THE GRIFFIN’S
PAM, BOBBY, RACH
2008 - 2010
EVER HIGHER!
DORIS & SCOTT MCLALLEN
CONNIE MAUREEN
BURNS MALLETTE
REST IN PEACE
BCA ARCHITECTS & ENGINEERS
PROUD SUPPORTER OF
JEFFERSON COMMUNITY COLLEGE
IN MEMORY OF
CHANCE ARMSTRONG
SUICIDE
A PERMANENT SOLUTION TO A
TEMPORARY PROBLEM
“THE UNEXAMINED LIFE
IS NOT WORTH LIVING.”
STUDY PHILOSOPHY AT JCC.
KATE FITZGERALD
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
DOUGLAS MEDLEY
SCIENCE TEACHER
1965-2015
HEAVEN GAINED AN ANGEL
-MISSED BY ALL.
IN MEMORY OF
WM & ANNE MARTUSEWICZ-
JCC REFERENDUM COMM;
FROM ALUMNI KIM, JOE,
MARIA, AMY & VIRGINIA
ALLEN L. SMITH
TRUSTEE EMERITUS
INTREPID BROADCASTING, INC
WBLH RADIO TUNES 92.5 FM
IN MEMORY OF
JON E HOWLAND
CLASS OF 1967
IN MY THOUGHTS
RICHARD C HOWLAND
CLASS OF 1968
NEW YORK AIR BRAKE LLC
PURCELL
CONSTRUCTION CORP.
John W. Deans Collaborative Learning Center
Dedication Event
A tribute <strong>to</strong> the College’s third president <strong>and</strong> the Spirit of Jefferson.
Friday, April 8, 2016, 5:00-8:00 pm
Jefferson Community College
Cocktails & Hors d’Oeuvres at 5:00 pm • Program at 6:00 pm
$35 per person
Please visit www.sunyjefferson.edu/deansclc
For more information call the
JCC Foundation at 315.786.2458
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 21

Scholarship Highlight
The Jenelle Amedeo Berry
<strong>and</strong> Christina McKenzie Berry
Memorial Scholarship
Established in 1997, this scholarship honors
the memory of Jenelle Amedeo Berry,
whose lifelong dream was <strong>to</strong> make a difference
in children’s lives through <strong>her</strong> passion
for teaching. It also honors the memory of
Jenelle’s four-year-old daughter, Christina
McKenzie Berry, whose profound personality
<strong>and</strong> knowledge beyond <strong>her</strong> years mirrored that of a mot<strong>her</strong>
whose talent for teaching <strong>and</strong> loving children showed in <strong>her</strong>
daughter’s character. The purpose of the scholarship is <strong>to</strong> assist a
young person with that passion for “making a difference” <strong>to</strong> realize
his or <strong>her</strong> dream of becoming a teac<strong>her</strong>.
Jenelle Amedeo Berry was born on December 19, 1974. She
graduated from South Jefferson High School in 1993, JCC in 1994,
<strong>and</strong> SUNY Oswego in 1996. As a high school student, Jenelle was
involved in Cheerleading, Soccer, Spanish Club, Future Teac<strong>her</strong>s,
<strong>and</strong> Project Charlie (a program that involved interaction with
younger students regarding such subjects as sex, drugs, <strong>and</strong>
domestic problems). Jenelle remained immersed in projects which
involved young people throughout <strong>her</strong> college years <strong>and</strong> was
honored when she was accepted in<strong>to</strong> the Teac<strong>her</strong>’s International
Honor Sorority at SUNY Oswego. She student taught at Pulaski <strong>and</strong>
General Brown.
Finding Scholarships Is About <strong>to</strong> Get Easier
In April, JCC will launch an online scholarship system that will make
the scholarship application process easy! No more paper forms <strong>to</strong>
complete. No more searching lists. With AcademicWorks available
at sunyjefferson.academicworks.com, students will enjoy:
• Filling out 1 simple <strong>and</strong> secure general scholarship
application
• Being au<strong>to</strong>matically considered for all possible scholarships
available at JCC
• A digital inquiry <strong>to</strong> check eligibility for additional scholarships
by answering a few supplemental questions
• A keyword search on all available scholarships
• Accepting scholarship award offers online
Scholarship Reception
To make the process of giving <strong>and</strong> receiving scholarships more
personal between donor <strong>and</strong> recipient, the JCC College Foundation
will host the Annual Scholarship Reception on Thursday, April 28,
2016. Scholarships are made possible through private donations
from individuals, service clubs, organizations <strong>and</strong> Foundations. If you
are a JCC scholarship recipient, mark your calendar <strong>and</strong> watch for
your invitation <strong>to</strong> arrive in the mail.
Jenelle was a compassionate <strong>and</strong> caring person. Her smile would
light up even the darkest of rooms <strong>and</strong> <strong>her</strong> laughter filled many
hearts. Jenelle had a love <strong>and</strong> passion for children that far surpassed
even <strong>her</strong> own realization of such a gift. She saw the beauty
in them, the individual hues within the colors of each child. She
genuinely desired <strong>to</strong> not only teach them, but <strong>to</strong> actually make a
difference in their attitudes <strong>to</strong>ward themselves, <strong>and</strong> their lives. One
of <strong>her</strong> once troubled eighth grade General Brown students stated
the following:
Mrs. Berry was the one teac<strong>her</strong> I will always remember. She really
cared about me <strong>and</strong> she changed my life. She made me feel like I was
worth something. I am going <strong>to</strong> do the best I can now <strong>and</strong> make a difference
for someone else’s life like she did for me.
Jenelle married Chris<strong>to</strong>p<strong>her</strong> Berry, purchased a home <strong>and</strong> settled
in Rodman. Christina was born on February 21, 1993, <strong>and</strong> they
were expecting their second child in January of 1998. Jenelle was
employed at the Dutch Hill Day Care Center in Adams Center <strong>and</strong>
had been hired by St. Peter’s School in Lowville, New York as a first
grade teac<strong>her</strong>, w<strong>her</strong>e she was scheduled <strong>to</strong> begin <strong>her</strong> professional
teaching career in September of 1997.
Christina, Jenelle, <strong>and</strong> Jenelle’s unborn child were tragically killed
in a car accident on July 2, 1997.
Our hope for this scholarship is <strong>to</strong> not only memorialize two
beautiful people, but <strong>to</strong> carry on Jenelle’s legacy through the eyes
<strong>and</strong> heart of a student whose passion for teaching children is as
insurmountable as <strong>her</strong>s was.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 22

Trustee Spotlight
Michael W. Crowley
Michael W. Crowley was first appointed <strong>to</strong> the College’s
Board of Trustees in 2008 by the Jefferson County Board
of Legisla<strong>to</strong>rs. Now in his 8th year, Mr. Crowley has
served as Board Chair from 2012-2014, Vice Chair
from 2010-2012 <strong>and</strong> as chair of the Facilities <strong>and</strong>
Budget <strong>and</strong> Planning committees. He currently
chairs the Personnel Committee <strong>and</strong> is a
member of both Facilities <strong>and</strong> Budget <strong>and</strong>
Planning. Mike is a founding partner of
Crowley & Halloran, CPAs P.C. in Water<strong>to</strong>wn.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting
from SUNY Oswego <strong>and</strong> an M.B.A. with a
major in taxation from Hofstra University.
Has your view of the College
changed since you first joined
the Board of Trustees?
Yes. As a Trustee you
are immersed in the
operations of the College
so naturally you are
better informed as <strong>to</strong> the
integration of the College
with the community. One
of the critical roles of a
community college is <strong>to</strong> develop
educational programs that are needed
by local employers. JCC’s nursing program is a
perfect example of this critical relationship.
What are some of the biggest changes you have seen occur at Jefferson?
The College, with the support of our County Legisla<strong>to</strong>rs, has been investing in new buildings <strong>and</strong> renovating older
ones. JCC is one of 30 community colleges in the SUNY system. Students <strong>to</strong>day have a number of choices so it is critical
that JCC continue <strong>to</strong> upgrade <strong>and</strong> invest in infrastructure <strong>to</strong> remain competitive in attracting students.
What challenges lie ahead for Jefferson?
Like all public institutions, JCC’s greatest challenge is funding. When community colleges were first established in New
York, the funding paradigm was 1/3 from the student, 1/3 from the sponsoring county(s) <strong>and</strong> finally 1/3 from the State.
Currently, the funding for JCC comes mainly from the students <strong>and</strong> our County with the lowest percentage coming
from the State. Our County has been very generous <strong>to</strong> JCC over the years <strong>and</strong> we are very grateful for the support the
Legisla<strong>to</strong>rs have given in light of reduced funding from the State for the County <strong>and</strong> reduced sales tax revenue. We can
only hope for increased funding from the State so that student tuition can be kept at a reasonable rate in the future.
What are your thoughts on America’s College Promise, the idea of ‘free community college’?
Well, as we all know, t<strong>her</strong>e is nothing for “free,” so it just becomes a question of who is going <strong>to</strong> provide the funding so
the College can continue <strong>to</strong> fulfill its mission. If the Federal government is going <strong>to</strong> join in the funding paradigm, I see
it as a positive prospect.
During your tenure as a Trustee, of what Jefferson accomplishments are you most proud?
The Board of Trustees as a group is proud of our strong relationship with our sponsor, Jefferson County, through the
Board of Legisla<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>and</strong> County staff. The completion of the residence hall <strong>and</strong> Collaborative Learning Center are very
visual accomplishments we are proud of. Our relationship with our faculty <strong>and</strong> staff is strong <strong>and</strong> focused on student
completion <strong>and</strong> success.
What does Jefferson look like in 10 years?
In 10 years I hope <strong>to</strong> see a new field house <strong>and</strong> turf field for our students. A new Hig<strong>her</strong> Education Building crowning
the entrance <strong>to</strong> the College w<strong>her</strong>e the County nursing home was located. New parking lots <strong>to</strong> accommodate our
students <strong>and</strong> faculty. Investment in these facilities will be critical <strong>to</strong> the continued success of JCC in the future.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 23

A Message from Jefferson’s Alumni Development Officer
Becoming an Ocean
“Individually, we are one drop. Toget<strong>her</strong>, we are an ocean.” ~Ryunosuke Sa<strong>to</strong>ro
As alumni, t<strong>her</strong>e are many motivations that inspire us <strong>to</strong> give back <strong>to</strong> our alma mater.
We think of our time at Jefferson with fond memories. We are grateful for the relationships we built, the
concepts we learned <strong>and</strong> the skills we acquired. Perhaps we remember a faculty member that guided us
through a difficult time. These special memories encourage us <strong>to</strong> show our appreciation.
In supporting our alma mater <strong>to</strong> greater levels of achievement, we can raise the perceived value of our
own education. Our giving indicates <strong>to</strong> ot<strong>her</strong> charitable organizations that Jefferson is important <strong>to</strong> us, so
t<strong>her</strong>efore, it becomes important <strong>to</strong> them. Many charitable organizations base their donations on the level
of alumni participation <strong>and</strong> giving.
Most importantly, your donations support current students in need, enabling many future pillars of our
communities or distinguished vocational leaders <strong>to</strong> graduate when they may not have ot<strong>her</strong>wise been able
<strong>to</strong> do so. Your financial support makes an important, lasting impact on our world.
Giving back <strong>to</strong> JCC also brings a fresh perspective <strong>to</strong> our own lives. Volunteering of our time <strong>and</strong> talents not
only brings our life experiences <strong>to</strong> students just beginning on their paths of learning, but can also bring
vitality <strong>and</strong> clarity <strong>to</strong> the giver.
As an individual we may have a full, rich life. But by joining <strong>to</strong>get<strong>her</strong>, we may enrich the lives of many ot<strong>her</strong>s.
Give <strong>to</strong> your JCC Alumni Association <strong>to</strong>day <strong>and</strong> become part of an ocean, an ocean more powerful,
more spectacular than a single drop of water could ever be.
Edie A. Roggie
Alumni Development Officer
Join Alumni Association Free
New this year, all graduates of Jefferson Community College can
join the Alumni Association for free (no dues)! Membership runs
on a calendar year from January <strong>to</strong> December. Joining the JCC
Alumni Association is a great way for alumni <strong>to</strong>:
• show pride in their alma mater
• stay engaged with the college
• help create opportunities for ot<strong>her</strong> students <strong>to</strong> realize their
dream of earning an education
• receive discounts at local businesses via a Membership
Benefits Program (a list of participating businesses is available
online at www.sunyjefferson.edu)
Jefferson Community College has more than 20,000 alumni
around the world. To renew an existing Alumni Association
membership, or <strong>to</strong> become a new member, complete the online
membership form at www.sunyjefferson.edu/alumnimembership.
For more information call 315-786-2327 or email alumni@sunyjefferson.edu.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 24

Alumni Notes <strong>and</strong> News
Rabecca Venturelli, 2015, JCC Foundation Account
Clerk <strong>and</strong> <strong>her</strong> husb<strong>and</strong> Aaron welcomed beautiful
June Ann Elizabeth on January 13, 2016. Baby June
was also welcomed home by big brot<strong>her</strong> Jack.
Congratulations, Venturelli Family, from everyone at
the JCC Foundation/Alumni offices!
Matthew Miller, 1988, joined NBT Bank as the
Camillus branch manager. He previously served as
branch manager at Citizens Bank <strong>and</strong> HSBC in the
Syracuse area.
2016 Distinguished Alumni & Hall of Fame Inductees
Ceremony <strong>to</strong> be held August 4, 2016
Each year the Alumni Association <strong>and</strong> Athletics Department celebrate the
achievements of Jefferson alumni <strong>and</strong> college supporters by honoring a
select number of nominees. More than 90 alumni have been honored as
Distinguished Alumni since the program’s inception in 1989 <strong>and</strong> 27
inductees fill the Athletic Hall of Fame since its inception in 2009.
Jefferson Community College Distinguished Alumni honors are determined
by a selection committee <strong>and</strong> are considered in the following categories:
• The Rising Star Award recognizes a graduate of the past fifteen
years who is advancing in his/<strong>her</strong> career field.
• The Professional Achievement Award recognizes a graduate who
demonstrates ten years or more success in professional life <strong>and</strong>
leadership within his/<strong>her</strong> profession.
• The Jeffersonian Award recognizes a graduate who demonstrates
a dedication <strong>to</strong> service on a local, state, national, or international
level.
• The Community Service Award is given <strong>to</strong> a non-alumna/us for
service <strong>to</strong> Jefferson Community College.
• On occasion, Honorary Alumni status is bes<strong>to</strong>wed <strong>to</strong> acknowledge
extraordinary contributions <strong>to</strong> Jefferson’s welfare, reputation,
prestige, <strong>and</strong> pursuit of excellence.
If you would like <strong>to</strong> nominate someone for the 2016 Distinguished Alumni
Awards, please call the Alumni Association 315-786-2327.
The Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have helped bring
excellence <strong>and</strong> distinction <strong>to</strong> JCC athletics including athletes, athletic
direc<strong>to</strong>rs, coaches <strong>and</strong> score keepers as well as friends of the College.
To nominate a c<strong>and</strong>idate for Athletic Hall of Fame induction, complete <strong>and</strong>
mail the nomination form available online at www.cannoneerathletics.com
(under Alumni) <strong>to</strong>: JCC Athletics Office, 1220 Coffeen Street, Water<strong>to</strong>wn, NY
13601, or email: jwiley@sunyjefferson.edu or fax: 315-786-2248. For more
information, contact the JCC Athletics Office at 315-786-2232.
Mary Hughes-Hoistion, 1996, was awarded the
2015 Gerald DeGroot Award by the Alcohol <strong>and</strong>
Substance Abuse Services Community of Jefferson
County. Mary is employed by Samaritan Medical
Center as OASAS Program Coordina<strong>to</strong>r in the
Outpatient Addictions Clinic.
Carly Sperati, 2000, has been named chief
radiation t<strong>her</strong>apist of Radiation Oncology for the
Cancer Center at the Mohawk Valley Health System.
Carly was awarded the 2015 Outst<strong>and</strong>ing Allied
Healthcare Professional Award, presented by the
Genesis Group of the Mohawk Valley Region. She
earned <strong>her</strong> associate degree in math <strong>and</strong> science
from JCC <strong>and</strong> <strong>her</strong> bachelor’s degree in Radiation
T<strong>her</strong>apy from SUNY Upstate Medical University in
Syracuse.
Dr. Leilani Garcia, 2001, recently joined Carthage
Area Hospital as a hospitalist. Dr. Garcia also earned
a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University
at Albany, <strong>and</strong> a medical doc<strong>to</strong>rate degree from
The American University of Antigua (AUA) College
of Medicine in 2012. She completed three years of
internal medicine residency within Pinnacle Heath
Systems, Harrisburg, PA.
Matthew Honeywell, 2002, has recently become
certified as a Division I <strong>and</strong> III Hockey Official.
Matthew received a BA in Business Administration
from Oswego State University in 2004, an MBA from
the University of Phoenix in 2009, <strong>and</strong> is a branch
manager for Community Bank.
Joshua L. Biolsi, 2009, <strong>and</strong> his business partner,
Andrew J. Boulter, co-founded 3B Sports, which
features ‘Bubble Soccer’. Participants play
soccer while wrapped in huge bubble suits, <strong>and</strong>
<strong>to</strong>urnaments, leagues <strong>and</strong> corporate team-building
opportunities are growing.
Morgan A. Ringer, 2012, established the business,
It’s a Ringer, teaching painting classes. Morgan is
the daughter of painter Michael Ringer <strong>and</strong> uses his
works as inspirations.
Ashley Capone, 2014, has been instrumental
in bringing SUNY Brockport’s volleyball team
<strong>to</strong> great heights this past season. Ashley was
a <strong>to</strong>p-performer at JCC, <strong>and</strong> has carried that
determination <strong>and</strong> skill <strong>to</strong> SUNY Brockport. Ashley
played a major role in the teams’ undefeated
SUNYAC Championship <strong>and</strong> was named first team
All-Conference.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 25

Jefferson Alumni…What Do YOU Have To
Offer The World?
If you are a Jefferson alum seeking employment <strong>and</strong> need
some direction, look no furt<strong>her</strong>! JCC’s office of Career
Planning <strong>and</strong> Job Placement Services can help. Services
available for JCC alumni seeking career <strong>and</strong> employment
direction:
• Personalized Career <strong>and</strong> Employment Counseling
• Personality <strong>and</strong> Career Inven<strong>to</strong>ries
• Job Shadowing Referrals
• Cover Letter <strong>and</strong> Resume Development <strong>and</strong> Critiques
• Graduate School Credential Review
• Career Development Workshops
• Mock Interviewing
• Career <strong>and</strong> Employment Fairs
• CANNONlink Job Postings
• Employment Networking <strong>and</strong> Job Referrals
• Labor Market <strong>and</strong> Occupational Information
JCC would like <strong>to</strong> help show the world exactly what YOU
have <strong>to</strong> offer!
For currently employed JCC alum <strong>and</strong> employers, the Career
Planning <strong>and</strong> Job Placement Services offers the following:
• Recruitment Opportunities on Campus
• Campus C<strong>and</strong>idate Interviewing Opportunities
• CANNONlink Job Posting Assistance
• Representation at Campus Career <strong>and</strong> Employment
Fairs
• Participation on Alumni Career Panels
• Men<strong>to</strong>ring for Job Shadowing <strong>and</strong> Informational
Interviewing Experiences
Special Program for Graduates
Class of 2015 <strong>and</strong> Class of 2016
College <strong>to</strong> Career
April 25, 2016
College <strong>to</strong> Career, a career planning program for JCC Class of
2015 <strong>and</strong> 2016 graduates, will be held on campus Monday,
April 25 from 1:30 <strong>to</strong> 4:30 p.m. in Jules Center,
Room 6-002. Registration is free!
Alumni who attend College <strong>to</strong> Career will learn about:
• Expectations of a prospective employer <strong>and</strong> what
they look for in a potential job c<strong>and</strong>idate
• How <strong>to</strong> target your resume for a specific job
• An overview of interview skills
• The do’s <strong>and</strong> don’ts on social media
Space is limited. Reserve your spot by sending an email
including your name <strong>and</strong> phone number <strong>to</strong>
theworkplace@co.jefferson.ny.us
or call (315) 782-9252.
Brought <strong>to</strong> you by JCC Career Planning & Job Placement,
JCC Alumni Association <strong>and</strong> The WorkPlace.
We encourage you <strong>to</strong> connect with Career Planning <strong>and</strong> Job
Placement Services. Many of JCC’s career <strong>and</strong> employment
resources, along with helpful websites for independent
research, are available on the College’s website at
www.sunyjefferson.edu, search Career Planning <strong>and</strong> Job
Placement. If you prefer <strong>to</strong> attend a regularly scheduled
workshop or meet personally with a counselor, call
315-786-2271.
Jefferson Insider - Volume 14 • 26

In the Spotlight
36 Years of Serving Students <strong>and</strong> the College
Dr. Joanna B. Chrzanowski, Distinguished Professor celebrates <strong>her</strong> 36th year teaching at
Jefferson Community College. The College wants <strong>to</strong> share some of <strong>her</strong> philosophy <strong>and</strong>
personal s<strong>to</strong>ries that make <strong>her</strong> the incredible teac<strong>her</strong> <strong>and</strong> student advocate she is.
Who do you consider your men<strong>to</strong>rs?
My fat<strong>her</strong> who was a chemist, superb administra<strong>to</strong>r <strong>and</strong> educa<strong>to</strong>r set the template
for how <strong>to</strong> treat people no matter what their circumstances. He was so
loved, respected <strong>and</strong> admired for his humanism that over 3000 mourners attended
his funeral <strong>and</strong> people I didn’t even know approached me <strong>to</strong> tell their
s<strong>to</strong>ries of how he helped them. My mot<strong>her</strong> who at 5’2” was the strongest
woman I ever met, working professionally as a his<strong>to</strong>ry teac<strong>her</strong> <strong>and</strong> raising
two children provided me with a successful working woman model.
Who most influenced your career?
My doc<strong>to</strong>ral men<strong>to</strong>r at Syracuse University, Dr. Joana Burstyn, who <strong>to</strong>ok
an interest <strong>and</strong> a chance on a part-time adult learner <strong>and</strong> guided me <strong>to</strong> a
successful completion of doc<strong>to</strong>rate. She showed me that I could be a successful
scholar as well as mot<strong>her</strong> <strong>and</strong> sustain a rewarding teaching career all
at the same time.
If you could travel anyw<strong>her</strong>e, what would be your destination?
I have travelled all over the world, but my destination of choice is always foremost
my native country w<strong>her</strong>e I was raised <strong>and</strong> educated, Pol<strong>and</strong>. T<strong>her</strong>e I feel like I
don’t st<strong>and</strong> out <strong>and</strong> don’t have <strong>to</strong> explain w<strong>her</strong>e I come from. I don’t have <strong>to</strong> say that
“I speak with an accent but I don’t think with an accent” because in my native <strong>to</strong>ngue I
don’t have an accent. That kind of anonymity <strong>and</strong> sense of belonging one can achieve only
in New York City w<strong>her</strong>e everyone is from someplace else.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
The students by far <strong>and</strong> the diversity of the students, especially after 1985 when with the Fort Drum expansion JCC’s student
body underwent a dramatic transformation bringing students <strong>to</strong> the College from all over the country. I love <strong>to</strong> watch students
learn, exp<strong>and</strong> their horizons, <strong>and</strong> focus their interests on a discipline <strong>to</strong> pursue. That growth makes me swell with pride for their
achievement.
What do you like most about JCC?
The College <strong>to</strong>ok a chance on me – a young, inexperienced teac<strong>her</strong> from a foreign country - at the time when the majority of faculty
were white males raised in the U.S. Regarding diversity, JCC was well ahead of ot<strong>her</strong> institutions <strong>and</strong> clearly was a trendsetter.
I built my career <strong>her</strong>e in an open-minded climate of true hig<strong>her</strong> education institution. I have been given opportunities <strong>to</strong> experiment
with innovative teaching strategies, push the envelope with technology, <strong>and</strong> engage students in diverse ways not practiced
before. I have been richly rewarded for my efforts.
What is something you consider unique about yourself that ot<strong>her</strong>s might not know or be surprised <strong>to</strong> learn?
Most people think I am an extrovert – but I am not. I just do a good facsimile of one. I am an introvert, intensely private about
most facets of my life. My teaching persona is vibrant because I think it is the best way <strong>to</strong> connect with my students <strong>and</strong> thus I
developed a teaching personality that successfully mimics an extrovert. It’s not an act; I truly have become more outgoing in the
process. People meeting me <strong>to</strong>day think I’ve always been like that.
Over your 36 years of teaching, what are you most proud of?
Many things of course but the SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professorship <strong>and</strong> SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching
are highlights. These are special <strong>to</strong> me because they reward teaching – which is my passion. I am also proud that I completed
my doc<strong>to</strong>ral degree which I started when my daughter was only two years old, while raising <strong>her</strong> <strong>and</strong> commuting daily 124 miles
<strong>to</strong> <strong>and</strong> from JCC, attending night classes at Syracuse University, <strong>and</strong> working full time at JCC. I have compassion for many of my
students who are doing the same.
Dr. Chrzanowski, professor of English, first joined Jefferson in 1980. She holds both a bachelor of arts in English <strong>and</strong> a master of
arts in English Education from SUNY Albany as well as a doc<strong>to</strong>rate of philosophy in Instructional Design, Development <strong>and</strong> Evaluation,
from Syracuse University. In 2004, she received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching <strong>and</strong> in 2014 she
was bes<strong>to</strong>wed the rank of SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professorship.

Jefferson Community College
1220 Coffeen Street
Water<strong>to</strong>wn, NY 13601
(315) 786-2200
www.sunyjefferson.edu
Our Vision
Jefferson Community College will be a dynamic educational leader, transforming
lives <strong>and</strong> our community.
Our Mission
Learning is the focus of Jefferson Community College. Through excellence in
teaching, innovative services, <strong>and</strong> community partnerships, the College advances
the quality of life of our students <strong>and</strong> community.
Volume Fourteen • Spring 2016