Learning Power Unleashed at Richland College

Imagine what our students will say

Thanks for changing my life.

Richland College Convocation 2012 Tuesday, August 21 Fannin Performance Hall

CONVOCATION 2012 Tuesday, August 21 Fannin Performance Hall

7:30-8:25 8:25-8:45 8:50-10:30 Continental Breakfast* in the El Paso Student Center Enter Fannin Performance Hall - Part I Convocation Presidents Address Learning Power Unleashed at Richland College Excellence in Teaching Video 10:30-10:50 Intermission Refreshments* in the El Paso Student Center Kay Eggleston

10:50-11:45

- Part II New Employee Welcome Awards and Recognition Innovation of the Year Nominees Jean Sharon Griffith Award Nominees Administrator of the Year Nominees Excellence in Teaching Award Nominees Associate Faculty Full-Time Faculty PSS Full-Time Employee of the Year Award PSS Part-Time Employee of the Year Award Facilities Services Employees of the Quarter Administrator of the Year Award Innovation of the Year Award Jean Sharon Griffith Award Excellence in Teaching Award Associate Faculty Full-Time Faculty Kay Eggleston Kay Eggleston Kay Eggleston Kay Eggleston Kay Eggleston Marisa Arredondo Marisa Arredondo Ron Clark Ron Clark Tony Summers Tony Summers Zarina Blankenbaker

11:45 12:00-1:30 2:00

Recessional Music Convocation Luncheon with Work Groups in Large Gym Academic Schools and Work Group Meetings

*Refreshments are made possible by the Credit Union of Texas, ORP representatives, and Thunderwater Organizational Learning Institute. During the continental breakfast, benefits, retirement, wellness, and professional association representatives will be available at information tables in the Student Center.

Richland College Excellence In Teaching Award Recipients

1972-1973 1973-1974 1979-1980 1980-1981 1981-1982 1982-1983 1983-1984 1984-1985 1985-1986 1986-1987 1987-1988 1988-1989 1989-1990 1990-1991 1991-1992 1992-1993 1993-1994 1994-1995 1995-1996 1996-1997 1997-1998 1998-1999 1999-2000 2000-2001 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 Parker Nunley, Social Science Lyndarae Sims, Communications Ada Smith, Social Science Bob Hughes, Business Division Gary John, Counseling Tom Motley, Humanities Rose Burke, Math/Sciences Robert Alther, Social Science Ray Whitfield, Technology Don Lokke, Math/Science Sid Chapman, Humanities Don Lokke, Math/Science Warren Watson, Communications Harold Albertson, Technology Jana Flowers, Social Science John Barrett, Communications Rica Garcia, Communications Weldon Burnham, Math/Science/Technology Parker Nunley, Social Science Jerry McElveen, Communications Elaine Sullivan, Human Development Mary Osentowski, Communications Becki Williams, Math/Science/Behavorial Sciences Harold Albertson, Math/Science/Behavorial Sciences Barbara Branum, Human/Academic Development Mark Kelso, Communications Kay Coder, Math/Science/Behavorial Sciences Luke Barber, Humanities Bill Neal, Physical Education Bill Matter, World Languages/Cultures/Communications Dru Bookout, Humanities Mary Osentowski, Humanities Rose Marie Pilcher, Business & Professions Michael Bell, Math/Science/Behavioral Sciences Larry Polk, Human and Academic Development Trudi Swedlund, World Languages/Cultures/Communications Fred Newbury, Engineering/Business/Technology Randy Conine, World Languages/Cultures/Communications Joe Cortina, Human & Academic Development Becki Williams, Mathematics/Science/Health Professions

Full-Time Faculty

1990-1991 1991-1992 1992-1993 1993-1994 1994-1995 1995-1996 1996-1997 1997-1998 1998-1999 1999-2000 2000-2001 2001-2002 2002-2003 2002-2003 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012

Robert Harris, Communications Marilyn Kaufman, Counseling/Human Development Carole Lester, Social Science Gerald Caldwell, Math/Science/Technology Jeff Westfall, Communications Tommy Marion, World Languages/Cultures/Communications Liliana Hickman-Riggs, Business & Professions Ann Fielder, Human & Academic Development Susan Barkley, World Languages Rodger Warren, Business & Professions Karen Forbes, Business & Professions Carol Kent, Humanities Afaf Abughazaleh, Math/Science/Behavioral Sciences Don Verne Joseph, Humanities Kay Woodard, Business & Professions Lehman Marks, Humanities Mimi Witcher, Office Computer Technology & Support Liliana Hickman-Riggs, Business and Information Technology Caren Tate, Computer Technology Anna Gann, World Languages/Cultures/Communications Elizabeth Pickett, Math/Science/Health Professions Judith Cline, Speech Communications Julie Phillips, Engineering/Business/Technology

Adjunct Faculty

1999-2000 2000-2001 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012

John Carmichael, Human & Academic Development Becky Jones, Business & Professions M.T. Hickman, Business & Professions Raj Seekri, Math/Science/Behavioral Sciences Michael Iachetta, Humanities Michael Wright, Humanities Dwayne Carter, Business & Information Technology Gail Donaldson, Engineering and Technology (no recipient) Matt Hinckley, Human & Academic Development (no recipient) John Carmichael, Academic Advising (no recipient)

Associate Faculty

2002-2003 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012

Audrey Tennant, Corporate Services Babs King, English for Speakers of Other Lanuages William Dickenson, English for Speakers of Other Languages Daniel Cerrato, Workforce Communication Greg Marishek, Workforce Training Jasmina Fahrendorff, English as a Second Language Amber Reedy, Health Professions Ann DuVal, Business Writing David Wozniak, Business/Accounting James Bates, Project Management

Continuing Education

Executive Producer Kay Eggleston Producer/Director Janet James Scriptwriting Kay Eggleston Janet James Video Production/Camera and Editing

Kris Hyttinen Janet James Rick Walker Theater Technicians Nic McMinn Jennifer Owen Program Cover Design Lisa Grippo Program Design Anitra Cotton Program Photography Paul Knudsen John Pollock

Special Thanks Rainey Agent Jacqueline Bryant Maria Chobany Facilities Services Cory Garrett Jenni Gilmer Jeremy Haldeman Jennifer Jones Jimmy Lopez Tom Lord Whitney Rosenbalm Susan Stolarczyk Ron Stout Sam Tsur James Warde Bethany Wright

2012-2013 Excellence In Teaching Award - Full-Time Faculty Nominee Finalists

Dr. Jennifer Jones - Psychology

Jennifer began teaching for Richland in fall 2010. Jennifer says about her teaching philosophy, My hope is that the student is able to learn what they are exposed to and apply the idea to his/her personal life. In her short time at Richland, she has contributed much as is evidenced by her participation on the Quality Enhancement Plan Implementation Team. She has helped many behavioral science faculty to complete their assessment of student learning outcomes, and has taught them to use WEAVE. Jennifer has earned an exceptionally high number of professional development hours since she was hired, all the while completing her doctoral program. Executive Dean Mary Darin says, I join Professor Joness students in recognizing her teaching excellence and dedication to her students by supporting her nomination for Richlands Excellence in Teaching Award. Dr. Jones students comments reflect that her teaching goal is being met. Ive learned so much in this class, one student writes, It motivated me to make better life changes and helped me understand my differences with other groups.

Raj is a second-generation mathematics professor. His father enjoyed teaching the subject and being a friend to his students, something that was instilled in Raj, as well. I seek to emulate the patience, gentleness, authenticity, and humility of my father, he says. Having taught for the DCCCD for almost 40 years, and for Richland since the late 1990s, Raj holds many distinctions including Excellence in Teaching awards from Eastfield College in 1997 and another from Richland in 2003 in the adjunct faculty category. Raj was selected by the Dallas Historical Society for the Award of Excellence in Community Service for outstanding contributions in the field of education. It seems Raj achieved his goal of emulating his father, as confirmed by a student who writes, It is obvious that Mr. Seekri cares about the progress his students make. He really wants everyone to do well, and that is reflected in his teaching techniques. Another student says, He has inspired me to teach, just like him...I hope to be able to instill the same respect and love for stereotypically difficult subjects like math and science in my own students, in the same way Professor Seekri was able to.

Raj Seekri - Mathematics

Dr. Sam Tinsley - Mathematics

Sam has served as a member of the Richland mathematics faculty for more than 35 years. His peers write, He is an expert in the less quantifiable aspects of the classroom -- those things that cannot be taught -- humor, charisma, presence, empathy, and high expectations are some of the intangibles that he brings to his teaching. His philosophy includes teaching the idea that we are doing logic, not magic. He also tries to bring heart to the classroom and share his story with his students, and at the same time learn their stories. He credits his colleagues with teaching him methods that hes shared with his students over the years. Sam has delivered on his effort to bring heart to his classroom, and maybe even some magic, as one will attest when reading this comment from a student, Sam is the nicest teacher ever. He tells corny jokes, but the man has a big heart and truly cares about his students. I wish I could have him for all of my math classes.

2012-2013 Excellence In Teaching Award - Adjunct Faculty Nominee Finalists

Samuel Aletan - Computer Science
Samuel began working at Richland in 1996. He believes that giving students excellent customer service is his number one responsibility. Samuels professional affiliations include the American Society for Quality and the Project Management Institute. He holds many certifications in process improvement and quality management. Samuel ensures his students receive personal treatment beginning with a pre-class welcome email, and special first-week-of-class activities intended to build relationships and lay the groundwork for measuring student success. His colleagues say, At staff meetings, he usually has ideas and thoughts that help all of the other faculty and staff understand the points we should be focusing on. Colleagues also say that Samuel makes his classroom a more personal and connected environment than a typical classroom by treating each student as an individual. One student confirms, Every class period one or two students needed additional help, and Professor Aletan would not leave until the students were satisfied. He reaches out to his former students months, and sometimes years, later. He still greets me in the hallway with a smile and kind words.

Daisy Santosh - EDUC 1300 Learning Framework

Daisy has been teaching at Richland for only one year. In that short period of time, she has become a favorite among her students in her EDUC 1300 Learning Framework course. Daisy is known for her individual attention to each student, particularly to those students who face unique challenges. I believe that educators have a responsibility to be empowering, even as we work in environments that are made complex by our diverse perspectives, intentions, opportunities, and paradigms, Daisy says. One first-time-in-college, disabled veteran writes, Not only does she go out of her way to help students, she understands those with disabilitiesI didnt expect a professor to actually take the time to better understand my limitations. Daisy considers instructional planning to be essential to her work and encourages her students to engage with her material using open discussions, reflective writing, and active listening. Understanding the learning style of the individual and overall diverse learning needs of the class helps me with tailoring effective instruction by implementing appropriate strategies in class.

Patrick Simpson - History

Patrick has been teaching at Richland for 17 years. With 40 semesters of teaching under his belt, Patricks teaching philosophy focuses on preparing students to be 21st Century global and literate learners, while reaching every student through his/her unique learning style. He feels it is his responsibility to prepare students for a demanding and competitive world, while also making every student feel valued through a professional relationship created in a safe classroom. He has served on the Richland Adjunct Faculty Council, and has written articles for the Texas Special Editions of the American History textbook for Richland. Colleagues say that Patrick consistently steps up to the plate in support of projects that exemplify innovative teaching practices. His students have this to say: Every lecture is like a story -one that makes a student want to keep on learning. He uses a variety of methods to teach us. He gives interesting lectures using songs and videos. Professor Simpson really changed my whole view of Richland College.

2012-2013 Excellence In Teaching Award Continuing Education Adjunct Faculty Nominee Finalists

Timothy Barkley - Health Professions

Medical Terminology and CPR instructor Timothy Barkley brings a wealth of knowledge to the college from his work at Parkland Health and Hospital System. Along with this knowledge, Timothys goal is simple, To empower students with education to improve their quality of life. He currently serves as a community development specialist at Parkland and was instrumental in expanding healthcare awareness in the community, while cutting costs and improving efficiency. Timothy is currently writing curriculum to train community health workers and instructors here at Richland in the Health Professions program. This curriculum will provide continuing education opportunities for these professionals. Once implemented, it will be the first of program of its kind in the state to provide all three components and an externship. Lisa Smithart says, He is a strong, knowledgeable, effective, and reliable professional, and he brings a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to the classroom.

John Brown - Health Professions

As a former Richland student, John understands the mission of the college and incorporates a studentfocused approach into his courses. He draws on his experience to effectively teach courses to train future medical office administrators. Now as an educator, I am foursquare behind the goals that support students in ways that are appropriate for the individual in a vastly divergent student body, he says. John believes that meaningful learning goes beyond traditional methods, and that it is his responsibility to best reach each individual student with his or her preferred learning style. Health Professions Associate Dean Shannon Ydoyaga writes, He is highly engaging in regards to utilizing several teaching modalities throughout his lectures to meet the various learning styles of students in the classroomJohns ability to remain approachable and guide the class effectively are a couple of his greatest strengths, in addition to his strong knowledge of healthcare.

2012-2013 Excellence In Teaching Award Associate Faculty Nominee Finalists

John Drezek - English for Speakers of Other Languages
John Drezek considers these three things as the cornerstone of his teaching philosophy for his credit and non-credit ESOL courses: creating an appropriate learning environment; incorporating learning activities; and building on student knowledge. John makes a conscious effort to get to know his students both academically and personally, and his students respond. His behind-the-scenes preparation is recognized and noted by his peers. Mary Peacock writes, John spends countless hours locating resources that will engage students and provide a rich context for learning. One ESOL student says, I appreciate his efforts, not only as a teacher, but also like a father or a friend. He uses a lot of resources to help us understand not only listening/speaking, but also history, business, and all subjects. Outside the classroom, John regularly presents at conferences, is a recent graduate of Leadership Richardson, and volunteers in various capacities for the Texas Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages organization.

Dr. Michael Iachetta - Government

Michael Iachetta has a long history at Richland, teaching American government and philosophy for 55 semesters. During this time, he has taught students to think critically through cooperative and active learning, open dialogue, and other various techniques. After almost 20 years of teaching at the college level, I find that teaching in this way helps students not only succeed in class, but go forward with habits and understanding that make their lives better long after the class is done, says Michael. Students find that his courses help them to challenge their core beliefs and strengthen their world view. One student notes, I learned that one cannot simply believe everything they are told or even everything we hear and read. We must form a strong world view to establish ourselves, and only in that can we find hope in making a difference in the world around us. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Michael serves in several capacities, including being an active member of the colleges new Integrative Learning Team, supervising the college fitness center, and previously serving as the interim dean for the former School of Ethnic Studies, Social Sciences, and Physical Education.

2012-2013 Innovation of the Year Nominees

15 Minutes of Language Innovator: Susan Wehe

15 Minutes of Language provides an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and administrators to learn about the languages spoken on Richlands campus and to engage in conversation with international students. Students volunteer to facilitate a session held in the ESOL Lab. Language and culture are closely linked, so the opportunity for students to share this information with the Richland community improves daily interactions and civil responsibility. Participants leave knowing they will be able to use the new phrases when meeting speakers of the language. The expressions learned in the session are displayed in the ESOL Lab and the goal of having 20 languages represented is one that will be reached. Colleagues praise Susans innovative idea, saying her ability to express sincere appreciation encourages others to volunteer to serve as future facilitators. Her colleagues say, To honor the diversity represented at Richland College, it requires someone at the helm to have a diligent and visionary approach to not lose sight of the talent and richness that our students possess. Susans direction and communication style are contributing factors to the success and innovativeness of such projects.

Expansion of Campus Sustainability/Reduction of Energy Use and Cost Team Leader: Jerry Owens Team Members: Ron Foster, Kenneth Hart, Lucio Hernandez, Anthony Leand, Anson Ngo, and Fermin Portillo
Due to decreases in all funding levels, a mandatory action plan was developed to ensure comfort levels were met while Richlands energy usage remained the same or lower. New high-efficiency, chiller/cooling tower systems were needed to support the action plan. During the first 90 days of the cooling season, the benefits were realized. Estimated savings in electricity and water are $12,400 per year. With the advance of technology of LED lighting, the team was able to replace 41 of the parking lots metal, halide lamp fixtures with LED fixtures. With the installation of 38 solar-powered fixtures on the perimeter roads, the team was able to go off the electrical grid for after-hours parking lot lighting from midnight to 6 a.m. Estimated savings of electricity and bulb replacement costs are $26,130 per year. To support Richlands recycling efforts, due to limited space allocation, compact three-bay recycle stations were designed, constructed and installed to collect paper, cans, and plastic in all classrooms. Estimated savings as a result of the decrease in trash to landfill and the increase in recyclable items are $7,450 per year.

OAR (Orientation-Advising-Registration) Team Leader: Mary Darin and Zina Gardner Team Members: Jean Carter, Kimberly Crisp, Sarah Daniel, Mary Darin, Megan Farmer, Zina Gardner, Lisa Grippo, Bobbie Harrison, Ron Hill, Bao Huynh, Janice McCann, DeShamus (Sol) Sallis, DLanor Shirley, Christi Timberlake, Luz Villegas, and Becky Witherspoon
Richland launched a new mandatory student orientation during summer 2011 for new-to-college students starting in fall 2011: Orientation-Advising-Registration (OAR). With the help of more than 125 volunteers, OAR acclimated new students to higher education; gave them a better understanding of Richlands unique mission, values, and priorities; and provided a welcoming experience so students will be motivated and inspired as they begin their college journey. The total number of OAR participants for fall 2011 and spring 2012 semesters was 2,412. The efficiency of OAR is shown in the data received from the 1,193 student evaluations completed at the end of the OAR advising and registration sessions. Respondents gave an excellent or good overall rating for the orientation welcome session, academic advising session, class registration, and campus tour.

2012-2013 Innovation of the Year Nominees

Partnering for Student Success and Student Retention: ESOL Corner and ESOL Educational Proficiency Plan Innovator/Team Leader: Danielle Hickerson and Diana Urrutia Team Members: Barbara Akins, Anna Biryukova, Chris Chavers, Michele DiGiorno, John Drezek, Rymma Dudar, Mercy Fernandes, Soheila Ghalambor, Ronda Glasser, Adam Gordon, Muhammad Habibullah, Maris Solis Houg, Cathy McDade, Cynthia Miller, Ann Moy, Jeff Moy, Thuy Anh Nguyen, Phyllis Williams, Ewa Worth, and Carol Faulkner and Martha Timberlake of The Learning Center Staff
The ESOL Corner was developed to serve repeaters in the ESOL Educational Proficiency Plan (EEPP). These students have been identified as those who need one-on-one instruction for listening/speaking, reading, and writing/grammar. Approximately 150 students from the American English and Culture Institute (AECI) and Intensive Learning Community (ILC) have been assisted in the ESOL Corner since the initiative was piloted in spring 2011. Instructional specialists, instructional associates, and faculty volunteers provide one-on-one tutoring and/or group sessions to enhance ESOL learning in the skill area identified on the EEPP. In fall 2011, 77 percent of students participating in the EEPP moved to the next level.

SACSCOC Faculty Roster Document Creation Process Innovator/Team Leader: Becky Jones Team Members: Dan Briggs, Susan Calhoun, Deborah DiStasi, Julie Phillips, Jasmine Nguyen, Tim Vaughan, and Fonda Vera
The SACSCOC faculty roster is a sophisticated document using a complex process. Creating the roster required high-level database skills to merge the information of 977 faculty members from the FCI Microsoft Access database to Microsoft Excel and finally into Microsoft Word. It was critical that the information in the database matched the official transcript embedded with the information. The team utilized the strengths of each software component to build a faculty roster that exceeded the minimum SACSCOC requirements. Importing information from several sources provided a cross-check system to verify all data. Human Resources, Institutional Research, and IT Support provided information, documentation, and support throughout the process. Faculty members submitted a curriculum vitae to provide additional information on their professional experience and accomplishments. Since Richland did not purchase specialized software such as Compliance Assist to prepare the SACSCOC report, the team utilized readily available software and data from several areas rather than re-creating required information.

Student Appreciation for Faculty and Staff Innovator/Team Leader: Ambronita Douzart Team Members: Council for Teaching and Learning SubcommitteeJohn Drezek, Adam Gordon, Christopher Manes, LiAnne Webster, Susan Wehe, and Mitzi Werther
The idea for Thank You Cards for Faculty and Staff was germinated and developed by the promotion committee of The Council for Teaching and Learning for Faculty Appreciation Week. The idea was to print thank-you cards and invite students to express thanks to faculty and staff members who touched their lives, understanding that when faculty members feel appreciated, they are motivated to excel in the classroom. When students heard of the Thank You Card project, many requested three or four cards. More than 270 cards were submitted to and delivered by the council. Faculty, staff, administrators, and students sent the council more than 100 positive comments to continue the project. The initiative was cost effective and eco-conscious recycled paper was used to promote Richlands GREEEN initiative.

2012-2013 Jean Sharon Griffith Award Nominees

Zina Gardner, Academic Advising
As assistant director of the Advising Center, Zina co-leads a staff of more than 40 people with ideas for innovation and change to serve Richlands students. Colleagues say Zina models an excellent work ethic to all those who know her. She is timely, organized, and follows through on promises. Zina has directed the OAR (Orientation-Advising-Registration) process whereby new-to-college students are introduced to Richland and advised of classes to take. She helps coordinate the set-up of the schedules and rooms for these sessions. Zina also helps advise students on probation and guides them back to success, teaching them how to use resources and holding them accountable for fulfilling their contracts.

Developmental Math (DMAT) Faculty and Staff, The School of Learning Enrichment and Academic Development Team Leader: Thales Georgiou Team Members: Dr. Barbara Branum, NeKeith Brown, Eleanor Browne, Saeid Darabadey, Pat Ellens, Jerry Matlock, Judi Nam, Minkay Tinker, Dr. Sam Tinsley,
Joey Yelverton, nominator of the DMAT team, writes, I have heard current and former students mention how great their math teacher was at Richland and in a lot of these occasions they are talking about one of the full-time DMAT teachers. Their energy and awesome ability to teach effectively encourages me to do my best so that I can keep up with the reputation they have developed. DMAT instructors show their commitment to students by offering individual assistance on homework problems or test reviews. The DMAT team created the Center for Success in Math (CSM) to tutor students. Through the CSM, the team provides DVDs of course material and uses different teaching approaches (lecture, lab, and computer) to serve student needs.

Dr. Gary John, The School of Learning Enrichment and Academic Development
A faculty member at Richland since 1972, Gary teaches EDUC 1300 full-time and coordinates the EDUC 1300 Learning Framework faculty members. As a teacher, Gary has taught Human Development classes and made many presentations for students to learn how to map their future, writes his nominator, Lee Paez. I know that for many years, Gary has met individually with each of his students in order to get to know them personally. He has also served as a personal counselor, career counselor, and academic advisor. Garys other accolades include: being selected as an outstanding faculty member in 1983; coordinating Career Services; supervising counseling interns; teaching graduate counseling courses at Texas A&M Commerce, Amberton, and Argosy universities; and teaching the first masterslevel wellness course in Texas in 1979.

Dr. William Matter, The School of World Languages, Cultures, and Communications
For more than 20 years, Bill has served as sponsor to Richlands award-winning Parallax magazine. During that time he has encouraged creativity in students and provided them with the opportunity to become recognized through publication. Because of his guidance, Parallax has been recognized multiple times by the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association as the best college literary magazine in Texas, including earning the 2012 honor. He has received the Excellence in Teaching award, the Feather in My Cap award from Disability Services, and the Employee of the Month award. Bill has been a sponsor for three student organizations: a creative writing club, the Muslim Student Association, and the Computer Club. He has also served Richland as a police officer for 17 years. He is currently a police lieutenant.

2012-2013 Jean Sharon Griffith Award Nominees

Multicultural Center Staff Team Leaders: Thuy Anh Nguyen and Ewa Worth, Team Members: Chris Chavers, John Drezek, Soheila Ghalambor, Maria Solis Houg, Ragina Paudyal, Thomas Adams, and the front desk staff
As a student in-take center, first impressions of the Multicultural Center (MC) are important. Diana Urrutia writes, I am certain students encounter a welcoming environment and a staff waiting to assist them in their course of study. The staff not only provides guidance but also opportunities for students to become self-sustaining. The MC advisors assess students needs by providing them with various options and opportunities for learning the English language. One of the important innovations by the MC is a partnership with the American English and Culture Institute and ESOL Intensive Learning Community to create the ESOL Educational Proficiency Plan, which addresses the needs of repeaters. The plan partners international advisors, academic advisors, and instructors to determine the additional tutoring/student services needed to promote student success.

Scott Toups, The School of Learning Enrichment and Academic Development

Scott came to Richland in 2008. Scott serves as Richlands womens soccer coach, and he teaches P.E. classes. Scotts nominator, Bill Neal, writes, Scotts willingness to address these issues and challenge these students has to be an energetic and consuming relationship. The self-confidence and self-esteem that Scott has imparted to each and every student are essential to their transition into lifetime skills and healthy living. His attention to each and every student is evident as he finds new and innovative ways to motivate them. Scotts other accolades include leading the Lady T-Ducks in 2009 to their third national NJCAA Division III championship. In 2010, the National Soccer Coaches Association of America named Scott the Central Region Coach of the Year.

Diana Urrutia, Multicultural Center/American English and Culture Institute/The School of World Languages, Cultures, and Communications (WLCC)
Dianas colleagues describe her as joyful, competent, diligent, compassionate, and honest. She pursues every endeavor with energy, passion, and integrity, writes Susan Barkley, her nominator. While the epitome of a professional, she is at the same time playful and exuberant. She leads by example holding herself to the highest standards which in turn compels others to do their best. Diana has served in numerous areas at Richland since 1994 including the Office of Student Life, the Multicultural Center, ESOL faculty, and coordinator of ESOL Listening/Speaking. Now, as associate dean in WLCC, she supervises the ESOL program including the Intensive Learning Communities, the American English and Culture Institute, and the Multicultural Center. Her experience in both student services and instructional sectors guide her leadership and student-centeredness.

2011-2012 Full-Time Professional Support Staff Employee of the Year

(Announced at the Annual PSS Banquet in December 2011)

Zina Gardner, Professional Support Staff Full-time Employee of the Year

As the assistant director of Advising, Zina was instrumental in registration initiatives including the Mandatory New Student Orientation Initiative, which cut student waiting time by more than 50 percent during the fall 2011 registration cycle. Student ratings of the registration process soared. Zinas work with Cindy Berry, to literally break down walls, created a new Group Advising room that resulted in further cutting student wait time. Zinas colleagues admire her consistently positive attitude and warm, encouraging demeanor even during the busiest days. Whether serving on hiring committees or actively involved in the Achieving the Dream initiative, Zina gives her all to contribute to a successful outcome. Zina earned further distinction by being named the DCCCD PSS Full-time Employee of the Year in 2012.

2011-2012 Part-Time Professional Support Staff Employee of the Year

(Announced at the Annual PSS Banquet in December 2011)

Ora Howard, Professional Support Staff Part-Time Employee of the Year

As a part-time tutor in The Learning Center, Ora has made a big impact. She is known as a caring, dependable, and committed person who is welcoming and accepting of all students. Within a semester of presenting her first workshop, Ora was called upon to continue the Connections Workshops when the coordinator became ill. Under her leadership, the program is going strong. Her service extends beyond the campus to her church, a mission trip to the Philippines, and mentoring at the Dawson State Jail to help parolees adjust to re-entering society. Ora earned further distinction by being named the DCCCD PSS Part-time Employee of the Year in 2012.

2011-2012 Facilities Services Employees of the Quarter

William Martin (1st quarter)
Born in Saint Louis, Mo., William joined the Air Force and retired after 20 years. He received an electrical/mechanical technology degree from the Community College of the Air Force. He earned a bachelors degree in trade industrial education from the University of Georgia, and then attended one year of graduate school. When he was finished with his studies, he spent the next 20 years in heavy construction with DFW A&A Walker Engineering and JMEG LP. In January 2010, William joined the Richland family as a journeyman electrician for the Operations department in Facilities Services.

Dennis Griffin (2nd quarter)

A native Texan, Dennis has been at Richland since 1982 when he became a student in the Horticulture program. Dennis worked interior maintenance, including plumbing and landscaping. In 2002, he returned to Richland and completed his associate degree in ornamental horticulture. He became certified in greenhouse and nursery management and interior maintenance. Dennis continued his schooling until the program was discontinued in 2009. He then stayed on with Facilities Services as a part-time horticulture technician. In March 2009, his position was expanded to a full-time position. He advanced to grounds foreman in 2010 and recently was named grounds coordinator.

Kristine Pham (3rd quarter)

Kristine was born in Saigon, Vietnam, where she attended the Marie Curie School and the University of Vietnam. She came to the United States with her family in 1992 and received her citizenship in 2008. Even though Kristine is celebrating her 10th anniversary with the DCCCD, her career at Richland started in 1994 as a part-time student assistant working with Henry Preston in the A/V lab. From there she assisted in the TRIO/SOAR department and then in the mailroom. Kristine received an Associate of Science (Office Technologies) degree in 1998. In 2000, she was hired full time in the Printshop and worked there until it closed in 2008. At that time Kristine transferred to Facilities Services, where she met the challenges of working in a new environment and expanded her skills.

Silvano Saucedo (4th quarter)

Silvano Saucedo joined Richland Facilities Services in April 1990 as a part-time employee. In August of that same year, he began his full-time career at Richland as a groundskeeper. Since then Silvano has diligently worked his way up to equipment operator. Silvano has proven himself to be a valuable member of the Richland Grounds department and his dedication is reflected in the beauty of our campus grounds.

2012-2013 Administrator of the Year Nominees

Cindy Berry, Director Academic Advising
Overseeing a staff of more than 40 people, Cindy is known for leading with integrity, joy, and mindfulness. She is described as innovative, courageous, and hard-working. Cindy understands that the Advising Center impacts the way students view the whole institution, so she ensures that advisors are connected to and informed by departments across campus. She counsels advisors about the importance of their words and actions. Cindy spreads a message of advising is teaching. She believes in developmental advising in which advisors help students begin to consider how to dream, plan, and implement their goals. Cindy began her career at Richland in 1998 to fulfill the requirements for her licensed professional counseling certification. She became a part-time advisor that same year and transitioned to full-time advising in 2000. After serving as interim director of advising for two years, she became the permanent director in 2004.

Dr. Ray Canham, Executive Dean The School of Mathematics, Science, and Health Professions
Ray is known for his professional manner, quiet confidence, and ability to inspire others. When the faculty and staff believe in their bosss abilities, they work harder, they are happier, and everything runs smoother, writes Bryan Gibbs, professor of geology and physics. Dean Canham has our confidence because he embodies all of the Richland values. The most important way that he continuously improves Richland is not through new courses or higher enrollment, it is through the way that he inspires faculty and staff to improve. All of us are better and work to be better because we have a leader we trust and one in which we believe. Ray began teaching at Richland as an adjunct instructor in 1977, while an assistant professor at SMU. He has served as professor, division chair and now executive dean. Ray also served as faculty and an administrator at Brookhaven and El Centro colleges.

Martha Hogan, Executive Dean The School of Engineering, Business, and Technology (EBT)
Martha began her career in the DCCCD as an adjunct mathematics instructor at North Lake in January 1997. That same year she became the full-time manager of the College Lab/LAN at Richland. Now 15 years and five other job titles later, as executive dean of EBT Martha enjoys the challenges of preparing students for the workforce through career and technical education or to pursue baccalaureate degrees. Her employees say the low employee turnover rate in EBT is a testimony to Marthas leadership skills. Others praise her by saying, Even when the solution is not exactly the one a staff member or student wants to hear, Martha has the unique ability to explain and justify her decision so that the recipient leaves feeling that he/she was treated fairly.

Becky Jones, Associate Dean Information Technology/The School of Engineering, Business, and Technology (EBT)
Becky began at Richland as an adjunct instructor in 1980. She was hired as a full-time administrator for the Office Technology program in 1997. She received the Excellence in Teaching award in 2000. Becky has continued to expand her duties, serving now as associate dean in EBT. In 2011, Becky assumed the responsibilities of administrator of the Faculty Credentials Database. Whether it is employing new technology or inventing innovative ways to improve processes, Becky is committed to responsible risk-taking in order to achieve excellent, reliable results, writes her nominator, Janet James. Her creativity in the development of the electronic compilation of the Faculty Credential Inventory was a step-by step, responsible risk to ensure that the information was complete, permanently accessible, and safely retrievable for future on-campus access, as well as for convenient, manageable access by SACSCOC Off-Site Team reviewers.

2012-2013 Administrator of the Year Nominees

Celes Oppedahl, Associate Dean Workforce Training
Celes started at Richland as a case manager for the Richland Skills Training Department in 1992. She missed the opportunities in the corporate world and left Richland in 1998. Due to downsizing, Celes returned in 2001, as a part-time instructor. She became a full-time program administrator in 2002. Currently she is an associate dean of Workforce Training. Her employees say their weekly meetings and Celes willingness to hear discussion and new ideas make their department superior. She makes sure we get the adequate training, rewards us on our job performance, and shows appreciation for our efforts, writes Rosalie Conoly, her nominator. Celes always has a positive way of interacting with our work group and making it fun. She allows a great degree of flexibility in how our goals are met and treats us all fairly.

Tony Summers, Vice President Student Development

As Richlands vice president for student development and the interim athletic director, Tony focuses on service to students and the surrounding community. As a graduate of a community college, Tony has dedicated his professional career to giving back to those professional and community pioneers who had the vision to establish student-centered services and programs at community colleges. His nominator, Cindy Berry, writes, As the chief officer of discipline and enforcing the student code of conduct on the campus, Tony does an exceptional job of giving students his wealth of experience. He exemplifies the ThunderValue of Fairness by applying the rules with equity, but never judging....He is one of the calmest persons under pressure I have ever known in my 30 years of being in the work world.

Andrew Tubbs, Dean Adjunct Faculty College Center & Evening/Weekend Support Services (ACCESS Center)
As the dean of the ACCESS Center, Andy understands the essential role of adjunct faculty and makes every effort to meet their needs and requests. Andy led the way for expansion and remodeling of the ACCESS Center to accommodate the expanding number of adjunct faculty members, writes his nominator, Carol Kent. He requested the space necessary to house adjunct faculty, providing a quiet room for grading and studying, offering offices for student consultation, acquiring more computers and office equipment, and even carving out a space for a coffee counter and refrigerator. His work has allowed instructors to be more productive and to focus their energies on meeting the needs of students. Andys career with the DCCCD began in 1984 as the education coordinator for El Centros Jail Education Program. He also served as El Centros recruiter, evening/weekend administrator, and admissions registrar/director. He transferred to Richland in 1999.

Diana Urrutia, Associate Dean The School of World Languages, Cultures, and Communications (WLCC)
Dianas nominators say she is a natural leader who knows the importance of strong leadership but also knows the importance of teaching leadership skills so others may lead and flourish in the work place. Colleagues say Dianas leadership in the Multicultural Center and her ability to facilitate collaboration and understanding between the instructional and advising sides has greatly impacted student success. Diana has served in numerous areas at Richland since 1994, including the Office of Student Life, Multicultural Center, ESOL faculty, and coordinator of ESOL Listening/Speaking, and now as associate dean in WLCC, where she supervises the ESOL program including the Intensive Learning Communities, the American English and Culture Institute, and the Multicultural Center. Her experience in both the student services and instructional sectors guide her leadership and student-centeredness. She holds a masters degree from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Richland College 2012-2017

Vision

Richland College will be the best place we can be to learn, teach, and build sustainable local and world community.

The mission of Richland College is teaching, learning, community building.

Mission

Richland College identifies and meets the educational needs, primarily of adults, in our principal geographic service area of northeast Dallas, Richardson, and Garland, Texas. To this end, Richland College offers courses, programs, and services to empower students to achieve their educational goals and become lifelong learners and global citizens, building sustainable local and world community. We empower employees to model excellence in their service to students, colleagues, and community.

ThunderValues
Richland College affirms these values for our learning and work together: Integrity: We speak and act truthfully, without hidden agendas. We admit our mistakes, say when we do not know, and honor our commitments. We avoid silence when it may mislead; we seek root causes and solve problems. Mutual Trust: We value students and employees as whole personssharing perspectives, valuing and accommodating both differences and commonalities, assuming our motives are trustworthy. Wholeness: We believe whole people best learn, teach, serve, lead, and build community. Thus, our programs, services, and facilities nurture our unified mind-spirit-body and the emotional and intellectual intelligence requisite for meaningful lives. Fairness: We treat students and employees justly and expect the same in returnapplying rules with equity, giving all the benefit of the doubt, and providing both compassionate support and challenge for individual success. Considerate, Meaningful Communications: We share information, ideas, and feelingslistening carefully, speaking forthrightly, respecting diverse views, participating productively in dialogue and conversations. We welcome paradox and ambiguity as we move toward consensus. Mindfulness: We respect silence, using it for reflection and deeper understandingnot immediately filling silence with words after someone has spoken. We rush not to judgment but turn to wonder what was intended or being felt. Next, for clarity, we ask honest, open questions of ourselves and others. Cooperation: We work with students and employees to achieve common goalslooking beyond self-interests. We offer both support and challenge, remain helpful and forgiving in difficult situations, help build consensus toward positive results, and help one another shape meaningful lives. Diversity: We value and encourage diversity, in its many dimensions, intercultural competence, originality, and vision appreciating and cultivating both local and world community. Responsible Risk-Taking: Inspiring students and employees to innovate, expecting follow-through with creative ideas that work, we respond well to challenges, considering our actions carefully. Although uncertainties remain, we move forward despite possible criticism. Joy: We value laughter, play, love, kindness, celebration, and joy in our learning and worktaking our learning and work seriously and ourselves lightly.

Core Competencies
- Values-inspired culture - Agility and Innovation - Strategic performance improvement - Seamless transitions for lifelong learning - Development and engagement of faculty and staff - Sustainable community building social equity and justice economic viability environmental vitality

Emerging Core Competencies

Student engagement Student retention and persistence Student success Service excellence

Strategic Planning Priorities

Priority #1 - Identify and meet community educational needs Priority #2 - Empower all students to succeed Priority #3 - Empower all employees to succeed Priority #4 - Ensure institutional effectiveness