volume 13, issue 3 • May 9, 2011

Inside the NEW Courier the Summer Interships 10th Annual Poetry {NEW Courier Contest Winners

President Stuart Steiner retires after 44

By Christine Lauricella years of service { Staff Writer} “Leave when you don’t have to have any regrets.” This is educational career at a two year community college in his hometown. the advice given by retiring Genesee Community College President He was the first to attend college in his family. From there he went on Stuart Steiner. to the University of Maryland to get a Bachelor of Science degree. He After 36 years as Genesee Community College president and received his masters in social work from the University of Pennsylvania a combined 44 years of service at the College, Steiner is retiring. “I’m and his doctorate from the University of Baltimore. He also earned a 73 now. I could have retired any time after I hit the age,” Steiner said. master degree from Columbia University Teachers College. Steiner’s wife passed away a few years ago, and she had told Steiner started out as the dean of students at GCC. “I called him to “leave while you’re on top.” Steiner is doing just that. “I put a the names of the first 78 graduates,” Steiner said. “Graduations are lot of time in the College. She said pick a time when things are going always meaningful for me.” extremely well,” he said. In fact, this year, GCC students wrote to Steiner, asking GCC has hit record enrollments, recently extended labor him to be the commencement speaker for the May 2011 graduation contracts, and is sound fiscally, said Steiner. “We’ve had some really ceremony. “I was taken with that,” he said. good times,” Steiner said. “I’ve had great staff members who have Cathy Costello, executive assistant to the President for 22 helped move my visions into productive outcomes.” years, said, “He has never lost sight of the fact that we are here for the Steiner has been a part of GCC since 1967 when Dr. Alfred students.” O’Connell, the first president of the College, asked him to join the team Steiner has a reputation of being very involved with the as the first dean of students. “It’s not just a job, it’s not just a vocation, students. It is an aspect of his success that cannot really be measured, it’s an avocation,” Steiner said. but that has been a large part of his career at the College. Steiner Steiner has had many acheivements at GCC, but he does not can often be found in the Student Union playing ping pong with the take all the credit for his successes. “I think a lot of the success has students and engaging in conversations with them. “What’s the College been because we really worked together as a team. You don’t see the about? When you really get down to it, it’s about the students. It’s about students and faculty fighting. What we’ve achieved here we’ve achieved their success,” Steiner said. as a team. When you work as a team you look forward to coming to Caleb Stacy, a Genesee Community College alumnus, said, work every day,” Steiner said. “He always was up for some good, friendly, but competitive, ping pong. Steiner has won many awards during his career at GCC. Most It was how he stayed connected with the students. It gained him a lot recently he was awarded the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce of respect amongst us.” Lifetime Achievement Award. He has also won other awards, such Steiner plans on not doing anything for the next four months as the University of Texas Community College Leadership Award, after he retires in August of 2011. He will remain living in the Batavia the Kellogg Fellowship in Community College Administration from community and hopes to sharpen up his ping pong skills. Not Retiring from Pong! Pictured above is Columbia University Teachers College, the Heisler Scholarship, and “If they can beat me they enjoy it even more because they Dr. Stuart Steiner (right) and Josh Grout of Lima, Gold Key Award from the University of Baltimore Law School. beat the president,” Steiner said, “As long as they let me come back and who participated in a ping pong face-off with Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Steiner began his play ping pong with the students, I’ll be fine.” Steiner. Steiner took the title. Genesee Community College trustees name Dr. James Sunser as GCC’s fourth president Genesee Community College’s and community residents from a wide variety of backgrounds. Courtesy of MarCom Board of Trustees voted unanimously to select Over the course of his career, he has inspired the people around { } Dr. James M. Sunser as GCC’s 4th president. him and fostered a wonderful sense of teamwork in the positions Sunser currently serves as Vice he has held.” President for Continuing and Extended Sunser, 51, is a native of Syracuse. He and his wife, Roseann, a teacher, currently reside Learning at Onondaga Community College in Clay, a Syracuse suburb. The Sunser’s are parents of three children: Ryan, 23; Sean, 20; and in Syracuse, NY. In his current position, Casey, 17. His hobbies include reading, especially books on leadership and history, golf, basketball he oversees a wide variety of educational and spending time with family and friends. The Sunser family plans to relocate to Genesee County programs serving non-traditional students, this summer. distance learners, high school students, and Sunser called his pending appointment to the Genesee Community College presidency employees of hundreds of area business “humbling and astonishing.” Sunser said, “My parents never had the opportunity to attend college, organizations. but it was important to them that my sisters and I had that chance.” Sunser has spent much of his He never dreamed as a young man that he would achieve a position of leadership in a educational career at Onondaga. Prior to his college, much less serve as a college president: “My father was a very smart man and loved to learn. appointment as Vice President for Continuing Even though he didn’t have a great deal of formal education, he was passionate about the importance Dr. James Sunser and Extended Learning in 2004, he served that of learning, and he urged me to get as much education as I could, and do as much good for other College as Vice President for Finance (1996- people as I could.” 2004) and Bursar (1989-1996). He also served as Associate Bursar of Syracuse University (1985-1989). His family had limited financial resources, so he enrolled at a community college (Onondaga) A native of Syracuse, Sunser graduated from Onondaga Community College in 1984 working throughout his time in college. “A community college made all the difference in the world with the A.A.S. degree. He holds a B.S. degree from Syracuse University (1989), an M.S. degree to me,” he said. “My community college education gave me confidence, and opened up a world from SUNY College at Brockport (1999), a Certificate of Advanced Study from the University of of opportunities.” Rochester (2010), and an Ed.D. degree from the University of Rochester (2010). Sunser said that his personal and professional commitment to students will guide him in Board of Trustees Chair Charles R. Ruffino said that he anticipates Sunser beginning his new role. “I know firsthand how community colleges make life-changing differences to the people his duties at Genesee August 1, 2011. He will take over from Dr. Stuart Steiner, who is retiring we serve,” he said. “Making education possible is not a job. It is a vocation. I can think of no better after 44 years of service to Genesee, including 36 years as president. Sunser’s salary will way to spend my life, and I am humbled and honored to join with the trustees, faculty, staff, and be $177,832. many supporters of Genesee Community College in bringing the gift of learning to our students The Board’s appointment of Sunser concludes a national search for GCC’s 4th president. and our communities.” The search was guided by an eleven-member search committee comprised of college and community representatives. The search committee reviewed the backgrounds of 42 candidates. Ruffino said that the Board of Trustees believes Sunser’s background and professional Scan the QR Code with the camera on your mobile device to skills make him an “ideal fit” for Genesee Community College. “Jim blends outstanding academic connect with all of GCC’s social media accounts. To download a leadership with deep experience in higher education finance,” Ruffino said. “More important, Jim has code reader, open your mobile browser and visit scan.mobi. demonstrated a passionate commitment to students and an excellent ability to work with faculty, staff,

news 3-4,11 people 5,8 courier focus 6-7 entertainment 9 announcements 10 sports 12 the {NEWthe Courier 2 } {NEW Courier Letter from the Editor This month’s guest writer is Assistant Professor of Sociology Sue Drexel. The New Courier Staff Genesee Community College Student Newspaper Since 1966 Genesee Community College Defining Beauty: One College Rd. Batavia, NY 14020 Dr. Stuart Steiner, president White, Editor-in-Chief Kristine R. Dassinger

Assistant Proofreaders Thin, Young, Tracy Ford

Design Jasmine L. Huether & Sexualized By Sue Drexel Writers { } Aaron Apholz Controversy has risen on campus over a flyer that was posted by the organizers of the Joshua Dollas upcoming fashion show that advertises their need for students to apply for modeling positions. The Dylan DeSmit flyer depicts a thin, white female mannequin Carrie Dylag dressed in a bra, garter belt, stockings, and high heeled bedroom slippers lying on a banana Tia Kennedy split with whipped cream. Above the photo the caption reads, “Looking for Beautifully Delicious Christine Lauricella Models!” Burton Mault I have a couple of concerns with the advertisement. The first is with how the photo Tim Mieney defines beauty. When we consider the visual Caleb Nicodemus implications of a thin, young, white female mannequin dressed in seductive underwear lying Dalton Schultz on a banana with whipped cream, the image Ph.D (2011) found that “African American women viewed themselves more negatively when they implies that beauty is defined in one extremely compared their bodies to the dominant female cultural image—white, thin and young.” Brittany Staie marrow way—white, thin, young and hyper Another concern is that social science research has documented the harmful effects of Gregory Szmania sexualized. sexualized images on women and girls. The American Psychological Association (APA) (2007) Jean Kilbourne (1987, found that sexualization of women and girls Ron Weston 2010), a leading expert in media are linked with “three common mental education argues that the ideal “When girls and women are frequently health problems, eating disorders, low image of women portrayed by exposed to sexualized images they often self-esteem and depression.” When girls the media defines what IS and ‘develop a stronger endorsement of and women are frequently exposed to IS NOT beautiful. The media stereotypical images of women and they sexualized images they often “develop a “consistently portrays women as are more likely to place greater value stronger endorsement of stereotypical attractive and sexually desirable on their own physical attractiveness then images of women and they are more only if they are typically white, on academic achievement.’” likely to place greater value on their own young, thin, and carefully polished{ }physical attractiveness than on academic and groomed.” Ordinary women are achievement.” usually invisible in the media. Furthermore, APA (2007) found that prolonged exposure to sexualized images can In order to be seen as beautiful, some contribute to the decline of “interpersonal and personal relationships” and can “impair girls’ ability women go to great lengths to try to change to perform mental activities such as mathematical computations or logical reasoning.” their appearance. Stacy Lee, Ph.D. and Sabina We are a community college that seeks to create and maintain an environment that is Vaught, Ph.D. (2011) found that Asian students respectful of its students, its staff, and the community for which we serve. We are morally and were more likely to adhere to the white beauty ethically bound to uphold the dignity and integrity of all people and to do no harm. The fashion ideals promoted in the media. Participants in the show flyer may not have caused direct harm to anyone, but it contributed to the ongoing exploitation study said they “dieted and worked out in the of women in the media and supported the growing evidence of social inequality. gym to achieve thinness, wore push-up bras and There is a photo on the college’s homepage that pictures Dr. Steiner with a group of students. tight clothes, dyed or bleached their hair, and The beauty of this photo is that it represents who we are as an educational institution—beautiful wore green or blue contact lenses.” people in all shapes, sizes, and colors. The fashion show ad seeks to perpetuate and normalize beauty Some women find media’s narrow in one way, as white, thin, young, and hyper sexualized. I don’t know why the organizers of the show definition of beauty has a negative impact on picked this image. I cannot help but ask...could you not have used a better image to promote your how they feel about themselves. Cynthia Frisby, need for beautiful models, one that is more inclusive of our student population?

Letter to the Editor “Model Try-out poster causes controversy on campus” By Kristyna Jaquin

The fashion merchandising students never expected the controversy We believe that a college campus is the place where we can say that was caused by their model try-out poster promoting the 30th Annual and discuss and learn things without fear, without being bullied and without Fashion Show at Genesee Community College. censorship. We also believe that we can agree to disagree without being The show entitled, a’la mode, has two meanings; in or according disagreeable. We felt that the group of individuals that removed our posters to the fashion or served with a portion of ice cream, often as a topping. In was guilty of repressing our First Amendment rights, and they are guilty of researching and selecting a visual image that would articulate this message bullying us only because they didn’t take the time to talk to us. They judged to students, a picture of a Barbie doll type mannequin laying on top of a us unfairly and criticized us for our creativity and our ability to attract the banana split seemed fitting for the message, we are looking for “beautifully target markets attention. delicious models,” [words] which accompanied the image. If you were offended by our poster we are sorry but we were We all know that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and we also offended by your blatant disregard of our first amendment rights. It’s the know that no one has the same definition of what they think is beautiful. 21st century, and gender inequality exists if you put it there. Their disrespect We felt the group of twenty women who put this poster together were able cost us more time and money to regenerate modeling tryout posters, and to express our opinion of what would work for our theme and message. We the lack of exposure resulted in a less than satisfactory turn out. Next time were shocked and amazed that a campus that promotes equity, diversity, you have something to say, I suggest you find the better medium; you should human rights, and free speech and one that also just completed an awareness know better after all, we are women too. campaign about bullying would react so badly concerning our interpretation {of our fashion show image/theme. the NEWS {NEW Courier 3 } Graduation day comes after Poster Wars: By Christine Lauricella students’ hard work Staff Writer Songs have been written about it. requirements{ will get to experience } it. Sexist? Freedom of Speech? Numerous hours are put in working towards Graduation day. It is finally, and rapidly, it. Opportunities to have good times are It was the image of a mannequin lying in and faculty advisor By Caleb Nicodemus approaching. Staff Writer foregone to get to it. A ridiculous amount This year, the Genesee her underwear on top of a banana chosen by GCC to the Gay- { } of caffeine is consumed in the many over- student Kristen Tracy, a fashion merchandising Straight Alliance Club, said the concern was the Community College Commencement nighters pulled by students to achieve it. ceremony will happen on May 22nd, at student from Auburn NY, that led to a few raised “objectification of women vs. free speech.” As Countless sheets of paper and erasers and eyebrows and a couple taken down posters. advisor to the Civil Discourse Club, Faulring brought 1:00 p.m. in the College gymnasium. pencils and ink are used up in the process Because the students asked, the speaker As Genesee Community College prepared this issue up as material to discuss. “The majority of of realizing it. Students dream of it. And on for its 30th Annual Fashion Show, GCC students people saw this poster as demeaning,” she said. “The will be Stuart Steiner, Genesee Community May 22nd, Genesee Community College College president. This will be Steiner’s began work on all the various aspects of the show. majority of people I interacted with were shocked or students who have fulfilled their program One of the tasks that needed to be completed was disgusted.” continued on page 9. the recruitment of models. Tracy, with her team The poster was designed by women of classmates, searched diligently for an image however. Faulring said, “I’m saddened by that. Are Summer internships available that would catch students’ eyes and communicate these women getting the wrong message?” the theme for the 2011 fashion show, “a la mode.” Tracy said, “I’ve been taught sex sells, and By Tia Kennedy This term holds two definitions, one referring to it seemed that this model would draw people in. for GCC students { Staff Writer} “ice cream on top” and the other to fine fashion. That’s just where we are at nowadays. We wanted Genesee Community College is offering a way for students to jumpstart their Tracy designed this poster stating, “Looking for to recruit models interested in the dessert theme. As career over the summer. “Students should always try to gain an internship during the Beautifully Delicious Models!” looking for some college students, we can handle this, and we have a summer if possible. There is no better method for gaining work experience than actually models to attend tryouts during February. After freedom of speech.” doing an internship,” said John McGowan, career center coordinator. having it approved by Student Activities and Professor Chip Green, advisor to the There is a variety of summer programs offered for students of GCC. Ranging posted about the campus, the controversy began. Dactylology Club at GCC and instructor of from careers in technology, health, fashion, hospitality management and more, the options Professor Rick Dudkowski, head of the American Sign Language, said, “In my opinion, it are endless for advancing one’s education this summer. fashion show and professor at GCC, offered his is mildly in poor taste, but we are at a college level. Students may favor completing internship hours over the duration of the summer expertise to his group of students in his Fashion To me, I deal with college students. This could have for numerous reasons. During the fall and spring semester, a student would be expected Production Class, who designed the poster. “They a comical aspect, but the poster is probably [created to maintain an exceptional GPA while obtaining a positive experience at an internship. got a reaction- just not the best reaction,” he said. because of] inexperience. The students may not In some cases, students may have a job that can serve as field work or a restricted “I questioned it. But I don’t stifle. I advise and realize that there are others who will be offended.” elective. This could count for internship credits as well. McGowan said, “This does vary coach. As classroom manager, I can strongly suggest. Interviews with students around the campus as students find it more convenient by fulfilling summer internships by working at a The students learn by doing, and that includes offered valuable opinions on the subject as well. Tia current job and using this time to count as internship credit.” making mistakes.” Kennedy, a communications major from Rochester, The opportunities for internships at GCC are quite widespread. “We do try After being approved by Student Activities, said upon viewing a black-and-white copy of the to build a database to provide students with as many opportunities as possible,” said the poster is fair game to be displayed. Dudkowski poster, “It strikes me here in a college setting, but I Sharon Burns, secretary of Career Services. Students can find internship openings said, “Concern was for disappearing posters. The wouldn’t think anything of it if it were in a magazine.” in the Career and Transfer Office. All summer internships are kept on a log and listed students were wishing someone would confront them.” Similarly, non-traditional student Jim for students who are interested. What some of the fashion design students Lachman, who is studying Humanities at GCC, “Benefits include gaining invaluable work experience in a specific field of study, resented more than the controversy over the sexual said, “I’ve seen a lot worse. It doesn’t bother me.” which can validate and offer a variety of experiences in a chosen career field. By working and aspect of the poster was the disregard for their First Contrastingly, Krista Clark, who is studying gaining real time experience, students are exposed to real work situations,” McGowan said. Amendment rights. Tracy said, “What happened to childcare at GCC said, “It’s offensive to women like By completing an internship, GCC students can get a hands-on experience. our freedom of speech?” me. It’s telling us we are supposed to look like this.” Resulting from wrapping up internship hours over the summer, students can provide a Why is it that this poster drew so much Despite the arguments, which range from resume with proven experience in their career paths. negative attention? In a world full of “sex-sells” objectification of women to student rights and Summer 2011 internships include the following places: Darien Lake Theme Park attitude, what about this picture is causing so much freedom of speech, the matter can still be up for debate. and the Disney College Program in Orlando FL. Businesses include retail outlets such as controversy? Tracy said, “I wouldn’t change it if I did it Maurice’s Fashion Store. Others include the IT industry such as Computer Networking at Candice Faulring, instructor of Psychology over again.” UMMC in Batavia, Graham Manufacturing, and Main Street Computers. Health Careers can focus on Nursing, PTA, and Respiratory Care where students are using summer time for clinical site rotations. Turn to page 2 for further opinions about the poster. “Overall, many positive benefits in an internship will create endless opportunities for each student as he or she enters the job search world,” McGowan said. the {NEW Courier 4} NEWS Dean set to retire at { Campus Corner } end of academic year Poster series promotes Beatles, women, and more By Chelsea Tomeno Michael S. Stoll, associate By Joshua Dollas This semester at GCC at Albion, vice president for academic affairs we began displaying posters to promote Albion Campus Staff Writer student intern and dean of math, science, and career { } our classes. { } education, has announced that he will retire at the end of the The first in the series was the United States, and we chose Mike & Betty Stoll academic year. Beatles to promote our History of Rock & to promote our history class Stoll has been working at Genesee Community College since 1968. For 33 years he Roll class. Along with displaying a poster during March, which is was a faculty member, but in 2001 became the dean of Math, Science, and Career Education. of the Beatles, we decided to celebrate the Women’s History Month. His job’s focus was mainly on the oversight of faculty. He was in charge of most musicians by having our first Beatlemania We also provided pamphlets health and nursing faculty, including those of physical therapy, health and physical education, event. For an entire week we played from local New York history Beatles music and ran a Power Point Albion Campus Center student museums, along with suggested veterinary tech, polysomnographic tech (sleep studies), and paralegal activities. intern Chelsea Tomeno stands Stoll said he is going to miss everyone, but he really wants to go catch up and spend slide show filled with pictures and facts reading for Women’s History about the group. In addition, we ran a next to one of the posters that Month. In addition, we ran a some time with his family. He especially wants to go down to Florida, so he can spend time with celebrated women’s history. his 95 year old mother. trivia contest in which students could see Power Point slide show in the “[Retirement is] not an easy decision,” he said, “but I think it’s time to spend time with my just how much they really knew about the band. We Student Lounge that highlighted many of the women wife, mother, and family.” had an overwhelming response to our Beatlemania who fought for the freedoms women enjoy today. Stoll also said part of his decision for retiring comes from the fact that he’s “getting contest, with over 75 entries in less than a week. Currently, we are promoting our Horror in old.” He will be 66 years old in July and just wants to have time to relax. The next posters promoted the American Films class with a poster from the film Jaws. We will “Every job has challenges,” he said. Some of his greatest challenges came from hiring History 2 class with an image of Rosie the Riveter. continue to obtain and use posters to promote our people and simply finding the right person for the job. President Stuart Steiner has especially been Rosie is a cultural icon of women’s history in the classes and add artwork to our campus as time goes on. very supportive of him and his efforts. “I think we’ve always had a great team of support,” he said. One of Stoll’s favorite accomplishments is the construction of the new nursing facility, Arcade American Sign Language students go on an which is located across the street from the Batavia campus. He said he is very pleased that he Students in Pam Duttweiler’s American Sign Language helped with the development of the many programs used throughout the campus. In addition, in entertaining field trip 2 class were given a rare opportunity to undergo full immersion 2008 he won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence and Administrative Services. in a Deaf environment. Some of his greatest memories come from meeting new people. He said he really In a recent field trip to the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) at Rochester Institute of enjoys meeting new employees and visitors and said he is very proud of the faculty he oversees. Technology, students experienced a multi-media production that featured dance, circus stunts, illusion, flying “I’d just like to thank all the people who work here,” he said. and 3-D projection. The ticket sales, concession stand interactions, pre-performance “house rules” instructions, Although he is retiring at the end of the academic year, Stoll will be around the and the performance itself were all given primarily in American Sign Language. campus for a bit longer. He will be staying on the College’s Community Service Board through Students were encouraged to communicate only through sign language if at all possible. “We enjoyed January 2012. After that, he will officially retire. watching the expressive ASL interactions of parents and children, students and professors and groups of friends,” As he leaves his position behind, he knows his former job will be in good hands. He Duttweiler said. “Our trip certainly answered the question, ‘When are we ever going to have to use this stuff ?’” said he knows the College will do fine hiring somebody perfect for the job. There is one thing Stoll’s wanted to do for a while, he said, “not having to set the alarm clock.” Create-A-Critter Students at the Arcade Campus had the opportunity Transferring? Start the process early to stuff their own bears, dragons, cats, dogs, and other Transferring to another college can be a long and critters at the end of March. Director David Sink, pre- By Dalton Schultz ordered specific “skins” and bales of stuffing for over confusing process, but it’s important for students to know what Staff Writer they should do to start transferring. { } 50 students. After stuffing and sewing up their new pets, Students looking to transfer to another college must first go through the traditional participants received a tiny GCC tee shirt to keep their steps. The first step is deciding what your major is going to be, and then choosing several new friend looking stylish. Organized by Student Activities, colleges that you want to apply to. If you’re applying to any out-of-state colleges be sure to this event was one of the largest ever attended at the write directly to the colleges for their applications. Also be sure to find out if SAT or ACT Arcade Campus Center. scores are necessary for the college you want to transfer to. If you still need to take one of the tests, you can apply in the counseling office. Make sure you fill out your college applications carefully; if you have any trouble Lima Campus Center gives students total package you can go to the transfer or counseling office for help. It’s also a good idea to have your Genesee Community College has a main at Lima. Special courses By Brittany Staie applications checked over by a faculty member before you send them out. campus along with six other campus locations, one of are offered in order to Staff Writer Then request that the Registrar’s Office send a copy of your college transcripts to which is in Lima, New York. help some of the students { } all the colleges you’re applying to. If high school transcripts are necessary, then you’ll have The Lima campus has been opened to students complete the requirements needed for their majors. to get them from your high school. Then the final step is to wait for a reply from the colleges since September of 2009, making it the newest facility of The classes don’t even need to be “taught” you sent applications to. All this must be done by a certain date. The best time to submit your Genesee Community College. It replaced the Lakeville at Lima. With SMART technology, the Lima Campus applications is at the beginning of the year (January 1st through February 28th). campus. Monica Mattioli, associate dean of the Lima Center is able to link together classes from different It’s also a good idea for students to stay in touch with an academic advisor for course Campus Center, said that many of the students from campuses. The Lima Campus also has computer labs selection, a counselor for career and transfer questions, and if possible a faculty member in the Lakeville Campus transferred to the Lima campus. that teachers can use during classes or that students can the subject area of their interests. The best thing for a student who isn’t sure how to transfer “And we welcomed additional students after the move use on their own time. would be to make an appointment at the Career and Transfer Center. too,” said Mattioli. Since the move, the Lima Campus The Lima Campus does not just focus on It’s also important that students avoid certain common problems. One of the accommodates over one hundred students per semester. classes; they also host activities in order for students to biggest problems students who want to transfer face is waiting too long to apply to colleges. There are many reasons why a student might become involved in and meet new people. They have a Patrick G. Walter, GCC’s transfer coordinator, said that students should give themselves at attend classes at the Lima Campus. “It is very convenient Student Activities Club made up of students who plan least half a year preparing to transfer by applying to the college of their choice and filling to have classes so close to my house with gas prices on events for other students in the school to attend. out all the necessary paperwork, and even visiting some of the colleges they’re interested in. the rise,” said Jessica Norton, a student who attends the Last semester, they held a ping pong Students also need to make sure that they seek help and advice if they’re having Lima Campus. tournament between the students and GCC President any trouble trying to figure anything out, but they must also be willing to do certain things on They offer day, evening, and even Saturday Dr. Stuart Steiner. The Club also plans special days, their own and not try and leave everything up to their advisors. classes, and a variety of college credit courses are offered including activities ranging from crafts to sports. “Students should try to pick the four year school and the four year degree Instructor Sets High Standards. Student Meets High Standards. they want to pursue as quickly as possible,” Walter said. “They want to make the David Almeter was James Scott best decision possible, but they shouldn’t wait until the last minute to decide.” selected as Instructor was selected In order to make things easier for students a new transfer page has been designed of the Semester at the as Student of for the Genesee Community College website. Walter said, “I’ve been working on a new Warsaw Campus Center. the Semester transfer webpage for the Genesee website that should help students.” Go to the following link Students find him to be at the Warsaw for more information: http://www.genesee.edu/depts/transfer/. passionate about history Campus Center. and able to make it come Scott enjoys a History students conduct oral histories alive. He always respects his worthy challenge with veterans By Burton Mault students, sets the bar high, at GCC and is Derek Maxfield, instructor of history at Genesee { Staff Writer} asks incredible thought an outstanding Community College, has decided to change up his course curriculum by including a service provoking questions and student and shows learning project that forces students out of the classroom and into history. challenges their abilities. leadership skills. Students in Maxfield’s courses are working on an oral history project that is part GCC at Warsaw teamed with Wyoming Artists are here! of a new service learning initiative that he adopted. “Service learning is kind of the hot County YMCA to host ‘New York’s College Goal Margaret new thing in education,” he said. It is another way of combining classroom learning with Sunday’ on March 8th at the Campus Center. Nearly VanArsdale’s community service. He said that he’s incorporating the oral history project in order to get two dozen prospective students attended the event drawing class the students out the classroom but still teach the same lessons that they would be learning in to have AEOC representatives help them fill out students are the class. “It’s a way to show students what its like to be a historian and what problems and College Financial Aid (FAFSA) forms. By taking part showing their work challenges they face day to day,” Maxfield said. in this event the participants had a chance to win a at the Gallery of the The oral reports are like the ones the Library of Congress is doing. They are $250 scholarship, but they seemed most pleased to be Wyoming County interviewing war veterans and then digitally recording and cataloging their stories for able to finish their financial aid application task with Arts Council at researchers to use. so much help! 31 South Main Maxfield’s students will be following the Library of Congress’ criteria for Street in Perry, NY interviewing and will then put them on DVDs and mail them to the library. The students have The Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce beginning March to conduct two 30 minute interviews and write a three to five page paper about what they presented a Social Networks workshop at GCC 18th. Their more learned. This paper is then posted to a blog site, along with imbedded clips of the interviews. Warsaw Tuesday, March 8th. Kevin Manne, the recent work is on “It teaches kids about oral history and what these people have lived through,” Maxfield said. new Media Specialist for GCC who has received display in the halls While Maxfield has many students working on the oral history project, he also numerous awards for his work in social media, was of GCC at Warsaw. offers two alternative projects for people to do. He said, “I give choices because I don’t want the speaker. The workshop was open to everyone Whether you visit to put a round peg in a square hole, because if some students hate what they are doing, they including business owners, non-profit organizations the Gallery in Perry aren’t going to do a good job when they are doing it.” and fine and performing artists to help them learn or walk through the The second option is to spend 15 hours in a historical society or a museum, doing to use social media as a tool to develop relationships campus center, take a moment to appreciate their efforts. what ever the curators need. “It’s not like an internship where you’re there to work on your with other professionals in their fields, to engage Pictured above is artwork by Crystal Errington, project,” Maxfield said. “It’s whatever they need you’ll help with.” This lets the student learn customers and learn how to measure the effectiveness titled “Screaming Baby.” the inner workings of the museum or historical society, and then they write a one page blog of their social media efforts. contined on back page. the PEOPLE {NEW Courier 5 } Genesee Community College announces outstanding adult student award recipients In recognition of academic these distinguished students are among a larger Yvonne Gavett returned to the GCC Toastmasters achievement, balancing work/life and group selected from Rochester Area Colleges classroom after raising a family. Her extra- commitment to education, three Genesee consortium member institutions. curricular life includes Earth Club, which allows International Club Community College adult students received Lori Mould began her college her to pursue her passion for the environment. GCC’s Student the Rochester Area Colleges Continuing experience at GCC’s Arcade Campus Center. Margaret Zdzieszynski immigrated to Activities Department adds a new By Katie Clemm Education (RACCE) Outstanding Adult Along with her academic pursuits, Mould is an the United States from Poland in the 1980s. After club to its roster. The Genesee { } Student Award at the annual event on for active member of numerous student activities a successful career in the financial industry, she Community College Toastmasters International Club April 27th at Woodcliff Lodge. groups, has organized an impressive list of decided to pursue a second career in Drug and is designed to assist individuals to gain confidence, find Successfully combining full-time service learning programs for fellow students, Alcohol Counseling. Upon completion of her their “voice” and become the speakers and leaders they college study with other adult responsibilities and serves as student representative to the Board degree at GCC, Zdzieszynski intends to transfer want to be. The Club’s mission is to provide a mutually of family, job, career, and community service, of Trustees. and earn a bachelor’s degree at a local college. safe, supportive, and positive learning environment in Lori Mould Lori Mould has come a long way since did well, and earned the equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. which every member has the opportunity to develop oral suffering a closed head injury in a motor vehicle accident in 1993, when During Zdzieszynski’s adulthood, the political situation communication and leadership skills, which in turn fosters she was told she would not be able to learn in a capacity that would deteriorated, and her husband opposed the existing government. As self-confidence and personal growth. be conducive to higher education. She felt stagnant and unfulfilled as a result, the couple emigrated through Austria to the US as refugees. After only a few meetings the Club’s the years passed by, always wondering how life would be different if Her family remains in Poland. While husband and wife were both well membership is 45 students, faculty, staff, and members she were able to continue her education and do something productive versed in their professions, they spoke no English and had no resources. of the surrounding Batavia community. The following with my life. Thankfully, the challenges that she imagined would be As time went on, the couple eventually thrived in their new country and officers have been appointed as the Founding Charter associated with a larger university were erased when she embarked resumed their professions. executives: Khilna Samat and Caleb Nicodemus, co- upon the same education, but through GCC’s campus center in Arcade. In 2009, Zdzieszynski “decided against all odds” to pursue presidents; Thao Hoang, vice president of Education; Pat In January of 2008, Mould bravely took the placement test and began a different educational path and change careers to Drug and Alcohol Scutella and Liz Downie, vice presidents of Membership; an experience that has forever changed her outlook on life. counseling. Upon completion of her associate degree with Genesee Robert Rono and Aoi Kitagawa, sargent-at-arms; Katie With the support of the faculty and staff at GCC, Mould Community College, she plans to transfer and continue on to a Clemm, vice president of Publicity; Caleb Nicodemus, has even embraced educating others and bringing awareness to issues, bachelor’s degree and CASAC certification. treasurer; and Anna Trickler, secretary. Club Advisors such as domestic violence and sexual assault, homelessness and hunger Zdzieszynski willingly shares her experiences with her fellow are Jackie DiBella, Public Speaking instructor and John in our surrounding communities and counties, planting trees to help GCC students. She often refers to education as a “privilege”; not all McGowan, Career Development coordinator. beautify communities throughout the United States and to help reduce students in the Poland of her youth were afforded the opportunity to contiuned on back page. the erosion process, rebuilding and helping the people in New Orleans. attend college. She expresses her appreciation as that of a woman who Mould has come to see that through service learning that it is possible has “started a new chapter of her life, after so many already lived.” help those in need and to assist in areas where, though we may not Yvonne Gavett Yvonne Gavett graduated as Salutatorian Critically acclaimed know exactly what to do to help, we can start by getting involved. of her class from high school had dreams of being the first one from Mould initiated the Alternative Spring Break Program her family to go to college. After her first two semesters, she ran out of at GCC, and several GCC graduates have gone on to start similar scholarship money and dropped out of school to raise a growing family. author speaks at GCC programs at their transfer colleges and universities. Though personal Although determined to return to college someday, Gavett yielded to Mudbound, the By Greg Szmania contact and via a documentary that Mould directed and produced, the demands of raising her three children as a single mother. From critically acclaimed story { Staff Writer} she is currently working with Delgado Community College in New that point forward, it was a struggle, sometimes working two or three written by Hillary Jordan, Orleans to inspire their students to become involved in helping in their jobs just to get by. She refers to that period of her life as “littered with depicts a great deal of social conflicts, including racism, own community. obstacles.” When her primary employer in Oregon went bankrupt, adultery, and man vs. nature, all tied together in a rural, Mould puts it this way: “I have found my passion in life and Gavett made the life decision to return to school. 1940’s Mississippi culture. However, with conflict comes know that my personal growth throughout my educational process Time has passed, and the kids have grown. Their needs, change and radical resolution. Jordan’s novel addresses would not have been possible had it not been for the mentorship of though changed, still occupy Gavett’s schedule as a grandmother. each of the issues with its own, unique twist right up to its those special individuals that have come into my life because of higher She now makes college a priority and balances other things in her life astonishing ending. education. I feel that I have come full circle through this process because around her pursuit of a college education. Comfortable in the role of Mudbound was published in 2008, and the A Tale not only have I received an education but I have had the opportunity to nontraditional student, she draws upon organizational skills learned for Three Counties (TTC) committee brought the novel educate others as well.” through employment, as well as through school, and mentors others. to life at Genesee Community College. “The program Margaret Zdzieszynski Margaret Zdziesynski was born Gavett is involved in campus activities and cites Earth Club as a passion. is supposed to get students reading and is funded by in Warsaw, Poland. Her family was middle class, with her father being Obstacles will never disappear from life; during the first two sponsors like the GCC Foundation, and Wal-Mart,” said an Army officer and her mother a factory worker. During Zdzieszynski’s weeks of her first semester, Yvette’s house burned. At that time, she Mary Jane Shonn, a member of the TTC committee. growing up years, her mother was a college student. She refers to her relied on a favorite quote: “Courage doesn’t always shout, sometimes Some other notable sponsors of the program include country as “beautiful” with a government, at the time, being “not so it is the quiet voice inside that says I will try again tomorrow.” It is the Richmond Memorial Library, The Bank of Castile beautiful.” It was in the days of Communism in Eastern Europe that this level of determination that has resulted in Genesee Community Tompkins, and The Daily News. Zdzieszynski spent her youth and early adulthood. She attended school, College’s selection of Gavett as an Outstanding Adult Student. contined on back page. First Prize: Leanne Serrato GCC’s Tenth Annual Poetry Contest highlights creativity “Wisdom of Water” The Alfred C. O’Connell Library is ian and organizer of the By Tim Mieney proud to announce that Leanne Serrato has been contest, the poetry contest { Staff Writer} Second Prize: Laura Neri awarded first prize in the 10th Annual Student is a great benefit to up and “Daddy” Poetry Contest. coming poets because it gives them a venue to Third Prize: Christina Mortellaro This year the contest received 74 poems showcase their creativity and talent not only to “Distortion” from 38 poets. It was the largest number of poet their peers but to staff and faculty members, family contributors and the largest pool of work since the members, and members of the community. Fourth Prize: Katie Clemm contest began. The winning poets receive a certificate, “Desire” The judges for the open category contest a journal for future writing, and then select an Body of Work Award: Jennifer Curry awarded prizes for first, second, third, and fourth, additional reward from an impressive group as well as an award for body of work, highlighting of gift certificates and prizes donated by local “Oh Baby, What Fools We have Been,” the poet whose submissions reflected high quality businesses and campus organizations. This year the “untitled,” and “Art in Me” overall. In addition, two awards were presented in contest was supported by The Red Osier Landmark Math X: Shannon Mulrain Beginning Poets. Pictured are the winners of the Poetry the Math Poem category. Math faculty at GCC of- Restaurant, Darien Lake Theme Resort, Genesee “Numbers” Contest. Back row, left to right, is Leanne Serrato (1st place), fer extra credit to students who write a math related Country Village & Museum, AVI Foodsystem, Inc., Christina Mortellaro (3rd place), and Laura Neri (2nd place). poem and enter it in the contest. The Campus Shop, GCC Student Activities Office, Math Y: Jade Scott Front row, left to right, is Jennifer Curry (Body of Work), Katie According to Anita Whitehead, librar- and The New Courier. “My Relationship with Math” Clemm (4th place), and Shannon Mulrain (Math X). 10TH ANNUAL

Body of Work Jennifer Curry Student Poetry Contest“Oh Baby, What Fools We Have Been” untitled Winners Headfirst into the wall I feel myself foaming, First Prize We have built day by day like soda that’s shaken “Wisdom of Water” Leanne Serrato One brick at a time, the bubbles, they gather Do oxygen atoms sit around planning One compromise at a time, until they explode. their lives based on who they are next to (Carbon, Hydrogen, One less touch at a time I wonder what happens etc.)? when the lid comes off Until one day it was there; of myself ? Math X No. Hard, cold, “Numbers” Shannon Mulrain If a couple of hydrogen atoms happen by, And in the way Settle down bubbles, oxygen-with its electronegative personality, Second Prize “Daddy” Laura Neri Of touching, such small, small One plus one equals too much fun. enters into a bond (short-lived as it may be) Of reaching, Staring at a drop of water bubbles; Two plus two equals four single shoes. with those Hydrogens Of being together. Makes me remember a time when time that gather... Three plus three equals six enormous trees. forming water. and gather...... Four plus four equals eight wooden doors. And innocence were abundant yet not apparent to me. We traded time Hand in hand we stood smiling as rain caught in our lashes until there’s no room. Five plus five equals a ten hour drive. Is water forever? For bricks to climb Six plus six equals twelve brown sticks. No. And dripped off our upturned noses Building a stairway While in wonder we watched lightening sear the sky. Seven plus seven equals three more than eleven. Does water think that now, since it is water, it better stay water? To happiness, Art in me Eight plus eight equals sixteen minutes late. Sunny summer memories of pin-wheeling so fast Completeness, No. Unfocus your eyes Nine plus nine equals eighteen pennies to shine. My feet lost the ground Fullness, And so dizzy they could not find it again. Trained to see Ten plus ten equals twenty squawking hens. Throw in some heat- The “good life” Numbers, numbers, there everywhere you look. And you Color, and line, get a little steam. and follow Can you count the pages in your favorite book? Drop the mercury- Tossing me into the air What fools we were And for a moment Fourth Prize the shadows; get a crystal lattice. “Desire” Katie Clemm To follow the plans Feeling like I’d never come down. Without stepping back the undulating And I didn’t have to Come bathe with me in the warm, muddy water. A moment whiteness, That is the wisdom of water- It’s steaming with desire where the lines it knows when Until I grew up. To admire Stay close, don’t go far did not go. it is time For trust is so fragile. Math Y to move on. And to realize There is something yearning about you Those plans we made Blur the edges a bit, “My Relationship With Math” Jade Scott What is it that you have? Built nothing and perceive Third Prize Shall we discover together, I believe so. But a wall what you do not see; Me plus math equals not a fun time. “Distortion” Christina Mortellaro I’m blurry through your eyes but what is there all the same- I’m not good with numbers so I might as well rhyme. The feeling crashes into me like a wave, As I stand the memory pushes me down Let us reshape our presumptions about each other Of Busy It’s unexpected yet not unknown, and my mouth tastes my own saline. Mold our imperfections - our size Between us. The depth of color, Just the thought of math makes me go insane, I am familiar to the stabbing pain It reminds me of the sea and I’m drowning once I know if I go, you will remember me still the muted, and when I leave class, I feel bad for my brain. That pounds in my head behind my eyes. more. It’s alright to trust me if you can Oh, Baby, I’ve missed you- the brightness, The distortion of reality begins once more. I kick the door but it will not budge. In that big heart of yours. Where have we been? the way the edges bleed This minus this times the square root of x. I jerk and pound like those noises in my head. I touch your nose, the work of a carpenter with rough skin At home, school, work, and when you take away the lines. Maybe I’d like math more if it weren’t so complex. I pick up a glass and heave it against the wall. It will never end. I’m knocked down to the ground. You fell off the desk and someone grabbed your nose to keep Back again... The glorious twinkling sound resonates in my ears, you from falling Beyond the first look I have to stick around to get my degree, I breathe in deeply and repeat. Enraged and enthralled my destruction begins. For that explains it’s length Too busy there was more Luckily only 2 more classes ‘till I’m officially free. Crash. It pulls me to familiar places I long to iron your body, To look up so very much more Smash. Where my hands took the knife and struck. The result of leaving your skin piled in a corner From where our feet were going than can ever be understood Of course not forever because math never leaves. Shards everywhere. Scream. When God made your ears, inside of a moment & I have to admit--it’s one of my pet peeves. Silence. He must have used the wrong cookie cutter Too full of life, - just waiting The wave knocks me over again, Blood everywhere. And placed you in the oven. Kids and work to be looked at Clearly math and I do not get along. I reach out to find salvation. The orthodontist shrieks at your overbite To bother by eyes that could see. Can you blame me though? I get every question wrong. My arm grasps the soft pillow that held my tears and I look around my shattered world. But I think you’re beautiful. With knowing Magnificent, enchanting. What things have changed I prefer things that are easy to find. sorrow. There is nothing but dirt and sand I violently shake and hit it against the wall. When the waves leave me alone. Unlike all these variables who aren’t very kind. Just give me five more minutes to look at you. While we Crash. I lie down on the floor and stare. Have been otherwise engaged.... Puff. When will it come again and So with all this being said I’ll end some advice: If you want to take math, you’d better think twice Feathers everywhere. What will there be left to break? What fools we were. the {NEW Courier 8 } PEOPLE From “Miss Screaming Jitters” to Reflections on my Costa Rica experience By Ron Weston successful artist { Staff Writer} {By Leah Reino} “I always knew what I wanted to do,” said Ann “Buenos dias, muchachos!” (Good Reid, associate professor of Music at GCC. “I wrote morning, everybody!). Our guide Heidy greeted my first song when I was only 3 years old, and, I still our tour group as our bus bumped and wove remember it!” along the steep mountain roads of Costa Rica. From a very young age, Reid went after her I, a little carsick (and more than a little sleep- dream, but it wasn’t easy and getting over those inhibitions deprived), but not caring, stared out the window took real courage. “I was very tall for a girl at the age at the scenery passing by. of thirteen and felt very awkward and self-conscious,” It seemed so strange; the dichotomy she said. “Oh, how embarrassed I was too. How in the of poverty and the richness of the land. Houses world would I sing in front of the public I just couldn’t made from wooden pallets and tin roofs sat in comprehend at first. It was years before I felt totally the middle of a green tropical paradise. Brightly comfortable on stage, well into my career as an actor.” colored parrots squawked in the trees; monkeys No more screaming jitters or feelings of howled overhead, caught in petty tribal wars, inhibitions for this professional as she suddenly, as if on and we, American tourists, passed through cue, starts to belt out that very first song she had written. Costa Rica Trip. GCC students these people’s culture like a boat along a river. Given her impressive background and career, one can see took a nine day trip over spring break The natives seemed to watch us from the shore, that she has now earned the title of being a successful artist. to Costa Rica. Lead by Professor their eyes glistening with secrets unique to their Reid’s academic background is just as Maureen Leupold, the students studied history and traditions. impressive as is her accomplishments since becoming a tropical ecology and conversation in Traveling is a unique experience. It part of GCC’s faculty fifteen years ago. Reid has a B.M. Costa Rica. Picturedin the Santa Elena stretches your mind in new ways, ones that you from Boston University, as well as an M.A. from California State University at Los Angeles. Cloud Forest (right to left) are Leah may not be entirely comfortable with. This is She can claim credit to many musical stage shows, including writing the words and music Reino, Margaret Terry, Tina Schaefer, especially true when you are presented with a Daniel Scheg. to the recent production of Aelinor, the Oratorio, which was performed at GCC’s Stuart Steiner culture that is much older than yours, yet one Photo by Maureen Leupold Theater. She was the musical director for the musical Chicago performed here last year in April at the that we influence so dramatically. Genesee Center for the Arts. Also last March, she received the State University Chancellors’ Award It’s hard to reconcile our even being there, when we bring so many problems with us. for Excellence. Societies that have followed the same patterns for hundreds, if not thousands of years, fall apart She has carved out a most satisfying and rewarding niche’ for herself at GCC. “Oh, I just when introduced to Western vices. Drugs, alcoholism, prostitution, diseases are the gifts we bring. love the students. I think they can be so funny and so good,” Reid said. That being said, we have had positive influences. Costa Rica has become much more aware The feelings are mutual when it comes to her students. “I appreciate her even more now of its incredible biodiversity and the abundance of natural resources at its fingertips since it became after taking some of her classes. She’s awesome!” Micah Brill said. Brill transferred from Finger part of the global community. Children begin learning about their environment in preschool, and Lakes Community College and has a background in music. He came here because Reid is his favorite many high-schools exist to train them as nature guides, so that, when they graduate, they can make teacher because “she knows what she’s talking about,” he said. a living off of the thriving eco-tourism that drives a large part of the country’s economy. Brill is not the only student who has nothing but praise for Ann Reid. GCC Student Adrian Learning about the rainforest and the environment there brought me closer to understanding Tardy said, “She’s my favorite teacher. An asset. My mentor.” the intricacies of the country. Environment shapes the culture, so learning of the constant biological war in the jungle led me to a greater appreciation of this country. The relentless cheerfulness of the people, even in the face of adversity, was, I think, a function of surviving that constant struggle for existence. Have fun while white water rafting So how do I tie all this together? The people, the culture, the rich environment around By Carrie Dylag them? I think that, in totality, Costa Rica is a land of survivors. The people, the flora, and the fauna and horseback riding { Staff Writer} tell a story, one that reaches beyond the centuries. It tells of thriving life, of struggle, of sweat, blood, and tears, and of perseverance against all the odds. GCC Armed Forces Council supports By Ron Weston veterans of all wars { Staff Writer} Genesee Community College’s newest about current issues as well. Issues such as organization appears to be providing support and veterans’ benefits, registration, and financial filling a void for some of the students here. Those aid are important to them and to the College,” students are returning military veterans trying Scutella said. to get acclimated again to normal civilian life. Josh Farmer, a returning veteran from Students at Genesee Community College learning,” Said Greene. “We want students to GCC’s Armed Forces Council Iraq who was deployed from 2006-2007, saw are able to do it all from horseback riding to get outdoors and into nature, away from the (GCCAFC) is one of the first and only military/ a lot of military action. snowboarding, all because of the Outdoor television, texting, and video games. We also veterans groups in the SUNY community Farmer appears to shrug off Adventure Club (OAC). want to provide a place for students to meet college ranks. The Council is an organization any regards to how the fighting in Iraq The Outdoor Adventure Club combines other students with similar outdoor interests and that provides friendship and support among its affected him. “Me? I can adapt to a lot of fun and learning in an outdoor setting. “Our goal allow them to share their experiences.” members. A place to share their experiences. A stuff. There might be a few things like an is to take students out into nature and give them The Club is beneficial to students and place to vent. These veterans at GCC are not occasional nightmare, loss of hearing in one good, safe, and fun adventure experiences,” advisors. Downie has had some great experiences just returning vets from recent wars like Iraq or ear, but in time you get over them,” he said. said Elizabeth Downie, secretary to the Dean after becoming a co-advisor in February. “The Afghanistan, but even from the Vietnam War. But not all returning soldiers have of Math, Science and Career Education, and horseback trail riding at Wolcott Farms in Director of Student Activities and the ability to just return home and pick up co-advisor of the Outdoor Adventure Club. Warsaw was a huge accomplishment for me,” Advisor Clifford Scutella holds the reigns to their daily lives. Farmer said, “I do know some “Exposure to the great outdoors, good physical said Downie. “It was the first time I’ve been the Armed Forces Council since Ray Walker, a fellow comrades I fought with who are going activity, and environmental education is our on a horse and actually completed a trail ride former faculty member here at GCC and creator to counseling; I keep in contact with them.” main mission.” since I was tossed off a horse over 12 years ago.” of the group left. The GCCAFC provides help to The Club uses its surroundings to its The Club has big plans for its future Scutella knows firsthand the stress veterans and is involved in such activities as advantage. “We really have some great natural activities. “Our next trip is to go white water of military life; he has served two tours in the fundraising, community involvement, and VA and historical landscapes and places to visit that rafting at Letchworth State Park with Adventure Vietnam War from 1970-1973. He served on hospital visits. are right in our own backyard,” said Downie. Calls Outfitters on April 30th and on June 30th,” the USS Enterprise in the U.S. Navy. “I am a “I’ve already received a half dozen “The OAC promotes these local areas, brings said Downie. “I think that will turn out to be the product of the 1960s myself. I decided to go to or so e-mails from veterans coming to GCC in our students to these areas and encourages favorite trip this semester. A lot of students are school during the 70s and was very active then the fall, wanting to know more about the Club,” environmental awareness.” truly looking forward to it.” in my school’s veterans’ club,” he said. “What said Scutella. “I will then solicit those e-mails Technical Specialist to Marketing The Club currently has thirty eight they did then and what they’re doing now are in a general interest meeting and see if there Communications and co-advisor of OAC, members but is always looking for new members. very similar.” is something we can do. Veteran’s Day creeps Becky Greene said, “It encourages students to “Anyone can join. In fact, we encourage you to Scutella’s role as an advisor is to up on us in November and the College always explore beautiful landscapes in our area, like join,” said Downie. “Those interested in outdoor facilitate the group and keep the Club moving does something nice in remembrance of our Genesee County Park, Letchworth State Park adventures such as horseback trail riding, ahead. “They have their own agenda and talk veterans.” and Chimney Bluff ’s State Park while promoting white water rafting, cave exploration, guided education, and safe outdoor recreation.” nature hiking, backpacking, camping, sledding, The purpose of the Club may be one of skiing, geocaching, and more should most Andrew Super: Behind the camera “I think the most important lesson I’ve ever taught a student By Tia Kennedy the most beneficial things about it. “The purpose definitely join.” Staff Writer of the OAC is to promote outdoor activity and was about the power of perseverance,” said Andrew Super, instructor{ } of Arts and Photography. New to the Genesee Community College faculty last fall, Super has connected with students individually Principal and educator and academically. “Andrew Super is one of those professors who maintains helps students at GCC a nonchalant, cynical sense of humor that is amusing and makes Wes Pickreign may be a me laugh,” said Caleb Nicodemus, a student at GCC. Students By Dylan DeSmit are fond of Super as they can relate to his laid back personality retired principal, but that doesn’t mean Staff Writer his career as an educator has ended. { } and his firm, influencing lectures. Pickreign, who has had a long and successful career Super strives to make an impact on each student’s as an educator, now teaches classes at GCC. He teaches learning experience at GCC. Claiming that the most rewarding Educational Foundations 1, which is generally taught in the fall, part about teaching is making a strong connection with students, and Educational Foundations 2, which is generally taught in the Super said, “It’s that point where you see a student has a little spring, at the Albion Campus. He has taught these classes for the ‘Aha!’ moment and suddenly grasps a concept or idea and past two and a half years. excitedly moves forward with their work.” Before working at GCC, Pickreign enjoyed a long career as both a teacher and an Super’s academic career consisted of A grades and administrator in public schools. He started off teaching math in Lyndonville for eleven years. pats on the back until he received an F in an independent study. After his teacher offered to give out extra work to receive an A, he Andrew Super. After that he was a high school principal for sixteen years. For the first five years of his career (Photo by Andrew Super) as a principal, he was employed in Williamsville. For the last eleven years, he was employed learned his most important lesson. “I took the F because I had in Medina, retiring in June 2010. already done everything required for the independent study. The He said that becoming a principal was one of the biggest achievements of his career. As F was a result of the teacher not meeting with me to see the work. To this day the grade form is an undergrad at Cortland, he set a goal for himself to one day become a principal. He said that this framed in my office at home so that I always remember what my job is and who I’m supposed to be goal was “critical and very important” to his career. giving my attention to.” continued on back page. continued on back page. the ENTERTAINMENT {NEW Courier 9 } Graduation Different Viewpoints { continued from page }3 Inyoung Lee wrote this critical review for art history class taught by Kathie Aspaas. last graduation ceremony he participates in because he is retiring this year. Students are asked to Mannerism: Entombment and Resurrection of Christ invite their family and friends to this event, which is expected to last around an hour and a half. As the Reformation By Inyoung Lee “I looked forward to graduation day all of the Catholic Church { } year last year,” said Kristina Spring, a Genesee took place in Europe due to Community College graduate who participated in its extreme corruption, the the ceremony last year. “It was a big motivating factor balance of power shifted from for me. To get to walk and receive my degree with all religious to secular authorities. of my family and friends watching meant the world to Compared with the humanist me. The feeling I got when they called my name and Renaissance, the period of handed me my degree is basically too difficult to put Mannerism somehow brought into words.” out the unrealistic, vague, and Graduation day is often times met with cynical ideas in art. Jacophda tears: tears of joy because the student has succeeded, Pontormo’s Entombment is and tears of reminiscence because the student is perhaps the most compelling opening a new chapter in his or her life. It is a piece of art that strongly beginning and an ending. It is the experience of reflects Mannerism. First, the a lifetime, the memories of which will last for mood the picture emits seems a lifetime. unstable and urgent. It could “Graduation day was a great day of be because of the pessimistic accomplishment for me. It meant that I fought through environment the artist lived adversity and succeeded,” said Ryan Winchip, a Genesee upon. The holy story of Community College graduate. “I felt as if I was on top of the Christ has turned into a the world. Leaving GCC with a two year degree was a great nightmare. The background start to a hopefully prosperous education. I left GCC with surrounding the dead Christ 3.2 GPA and there was nothing better than receiving that is tragic and unpleasant diploma. It was one of the proudest moments of my life and at an extreme, despite the it will always be in my heart.” painting’s bright colors. Students who wish to participate in the Color is also a ceremony must submit their request along with $35 to the significant part of the work GCC Barnes and Noble bookstore. This will cover the that should be taken into cost of cap, tassel, gown, and diploma cover. Along with Pontormo (1494-1557), Deposition or consideration. With its this, the student will also receive four commencement Entombment, 1525-28, Oil on wood, unusual mixture of light tickets to give to family and friends who wish to attend 313 cm × 192 cm (123 in × 76 in), Church pastel colors, it clearly of Santa Felicita, Florence the ceremony. These can be picked up in the Student indicates how the style Activities office. For guests who did not receive a ticket of art had altered from but still wish to come and show love and support for their the Renaissance. The light color contradicts the general meaning of the picture, and graduate there will be overflow seating at the Batavia the conflicting color on the background is so dark that the figures within the picture campus in designated areas. shine too bright. How Pontormo has challenged us in creating a different atmosphere The students participating are asked to attend a with a biblical story, and how he has made the one piece to be remembered with the rehearsal on Friday, May 20th at 10:00 a.m. in the Batavia colors, is astonishing. campus cafeteria. They are also expected to arrive in the In contemplation with the aspect of colors in mannerism, El Greco’s Resurrection gymnasium no later than 12:15 p.m. on graduation day. of Christ can be reminisced as well. His colors in the picture contain both dark and bright “The day I graduated from Genesee Community colors. They are quite revoking; it certainly looks completely unlike the Renaissance. College was one of those things I’ll just never forget,” Although the theme of Christ being reborn is from the Bible, it doesn’t seem sacred Spring said. “It was the pay-off. It was what I worked for. or bright. The dark picture of hell takes up most of the painting; it’s hard to imagine It was really a great experience that I think every student such a work being held inside the church. What I see is the artist’s passion in creating El Greco, The Resurrection, 1596-1600, Oil on canvas, 275 x 127 cm, Museo del deserves to have. It’s like you can tell yourself you earned something extraordinary and bizarre, and certainly the color has played a crucial role in this. Take it all in.” the era of Mannerism. Prado, Madrid the {NEW Courier 10} Announcements

Security Guard 8 Hr. Pre-Assignment Fee: $54 Under the Security Guard Act of 1992, licensing is mandatory for all contractual and proprietary security guard employers. The law also requires security guards, themselves, to register with the New York Department of State. This 8-hour course is for anyone seeking employment as a security guard and provides an overview of the Security Guard Act of 1992. One hundred percent attendance is required, and participants must earn a passing score on a final exam. Individuals who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of achievement. Batavia Campus Saturday, May 14 × 8:00am – 4:30pm

Introduction to Excel 2007/2010 In A Day Fee: $89 Learn the important features of Excel that will make your spreadsheet stand above the rest. Although you may have experience with Excel, this course will pick out the functions that make you and your spreadsheet more efficient and help demystify some of its uses. This class will be taught using the Microsoft Excel 2007 version and will touch on the 2010 version as well! Batavia Campus Friday, May 20 × 9:00am – 4:00pm

Intermediate Excel 2003 In A Day Fee: $89 For those of you looking to learn the advanced features of Excel, this is the hands on course you’ve been waiting for. “In a Day” you’ll learn all the advanced features that Microsoft Excel has to offer. Come prepared for an information filled class. Batavia Campus Tuesday, May 24 × 9:00am – 4:00pm

Photoshop Elements 7.0 Learn how to use this fantastic program to improve the looks of your digital pictures. We will cover cropping, enhancing brightness and contrast, removing unwanted markes, removing red eye, lightening or darkening areas, and adding artistic touches. Feel free to bring your own pictures, or you can use our demo photos. Batavia Campus Monday, June 20 × 9:00am – 4:00pm

Introduction to Publisher 2007/2010 For those of you who have always wanted to learn how to design a professional-looking brochure, flyer, newsletters and many other business documents, Microsoft Publisher is a wonderful tool for you. Bring in your own logos, pictures and text. Publisher makes desktop publishing fun and easy! Learn the differences between the newest versions of Microsoft Publisher, 2007 and 2010! Batavia Campus wFriday, June 3 × 9:00am – 12:00pm

Introduction to Macintosh Computers Learn how to use Macintosh computers and see the wonderful things that they can do! Take a trip through the operating system, see some of the programs which are available and find out why so many people love their Macs. Batavia Campus Tuesday, June 7 × 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Railroading A-Z Fee: $48 Rail fans, model railroaders, amatuer photographers, history buffs and even SEE YOU AT THE FAIR workers in the railroad industry will enjoy this rich and varied history of how the Iron Horse was created and stretched across our local area and the nation. Further your interest of rail workers, engines, cars, signaling and communication. Max will show video segments and display artifacts and urges attendees to bring their own rail treasures to share and discuss. Learn about great museums and the best places to study, view, photograph and ride great trains. A Health Fair will be presented by the GCC Nursing students, Physical Batavia Campus Thursdays, June 2 through June 30 × 6:00pm – 9:00pm Therapy Assistant students and Respiratory Therapy students in the forum from 9am- 1:30 p.m. May 9th and 10th. Free informa- tion on topics such as cancer, lung disease, Starting a Small Business FREE! Challenges and roadblocks for start-ups and new business owners exist at alcohol toxicity, stroke recognition , hypertension, diabetes, sun safety, pregnancy, STD, and much many levels. Personal skills and personality as well as business plan quality, much more will be available. Nursing students will also be performing blood pressure screening. The knowledge of customers, competition, financing, recordkeeping and legal fair is open to all students, faculty and sta‡. Visit the GCC Nurses Club table to receive a stamp card. requirements all combine to determine the ultimate success of any business. Experienced advisors will help you determine and reach your business Visit each display table and receive a stamp. Fill your card and you will be eligible to win free gift cards potential drawing from lessons learned by other successful owners and discussion of current small business best practices. Batavia -Richmond Memorial Library Tuesday, May 10 × 11:30am – 1:30pm 19 Ross Street

• Don’t leave your belongings (textbooks, purses, • Report any suspicious behavior, Driver Pre-Licensing Fee: $25 laptops, iPods, cell phones etc,) unattended in libraries, harassment/bullying, or crime on campus to Public Everyone who plans to sign up for a New York State driver’s road test must hallways, locker rooms, or classrooms. complete this course. It will include defensive driving techniques, safety Safety belt requirements, and new laws affecting drivers who drink. Students will • Emergency Blue Light Phones – Emergency phone • Lost and Found – Lost and found items on campus receive the MV278 certificate upon completion. Batavia Campus Monday, May 2 × 3:45 – 9:30pm boxes are located outside of the college campuses. They are to be turned over to Public Safety. If you have Saturday, May 7 × 9:00am – 2:30pm can be used to report any type of incident to Public lost an item, stop by the Public Safety Office to check Monday, May 16 × 3:45pm – 9:30pm Safety or to request assistance. Emergency phones are if your item has been turned in. located adjacent to parking lots and sidewalks and Defensive Driving Fee: $44 • Escort Services – Public Safety will escort you to have a blue light on top.• Always lock your vehicle and Would you like to reduce points on your license and lower your automobile your vehicle upon request. insurance? This course sponsored by the National Safety Council will lock valuables in the trunk. provide you will these opportunities. Batavia Campus Saturday, May 7 × 9:00am – 3:30pm GCC Public Safety has a Silent Witness reporting system that is completely Saturday, June 18 × 9:00am – 3:30pm anonymous it can be found on the Public Safety Web page. Check the Public Safety website for additional helpful information Visit www.bestcenter.org for a complete http://www.genesee.edu/depts/public_safety/ listing of classes and to register! the NEWS {NEW Courier 11} Eco-friendly bathrooms save money CEO Club gives students an edge in business By Dalton Schultz Genesee Community College Students are would be foolish not By Carrie Dylag and the environment { Staff Writer} getting hands on experience like no other through the to take advantage { Staff Writer} The bathrooms across from the GCC per flush. Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization at GCC. of the opportunity,” Bookstore have just recently been reopened to Tim Landers, the director of Buildings The CEO Club allows students of all said Shaw. the public. These newly remodeled bathrooms and Grounds, said that they have been looking majors to produce, package, design, market, and Shaw also knew it was a great way to get have a number of improvements to help to make improvements to the two bathrooms for sell a product on their own. Barb Shine, CEO involved on campus, which she believes is harder to the College conserve energy while helping two and a half years. After an increased interest Club co-advisor and associate professor Business/ do at a community college. “I think it can be more the environment. in the project from the Student Government Entrepreneurship, said, “Currently, students from challenging at community colleges where you can, The bathrooms had a number of Association and the Board of Trustees, Genesee’s business and entrepreneurship programs, if you so choose, spend no more time in the school features changed in order to help them be construction on both bathrooms was approved accounting program, the graphic arts program, the or with fellow students than you are required to more environmentally friendly than the average in spring of 2010. web design program, and even students from our during actual class time,” she said. bathroom. The bathroom fixtures were updated Landers is looking toward the future. General Studies program have been involved in The mission and goals of the CEO because they were over forty years old and they “Right now we’re going to take a look at how the Club.” Club play a role in the impact it has had on used a lot of water. Other changes included we did and formulate a plan on how far we’re The CEO Club is expected to have a huge the students. “The organization’s mission new sinks that are made out of all recycled going to go as far as the other bathrooms are impact on GCC and the local community. First year is to inspire and promote entrepreneurship material; these sinks have automatic valves to concerned,” he said. member Mary Shaw has already seen how much as an option for all college students,” said help save water. The bathrooms also have new The estimated cost for both the the Club can have an impact on her. “It’s shown me Shine. “The goal of our Club is to encourage LED lights as opposed to the old florescent. bathrooms was roughly in the range of $22,000. the importance of taking the initiative and doing entrepreneurship and provide hands-on student Like the other bathrooms at GCC these Overall Landers said that the budget was your part if you are at all invested in the outcome,” learning by providing business in action projects.” green bathrooms offer the option of drying your reasonable and that the remodeling took a bit said Shaw. “It’s also exemplified how valuable good Shine encourages as well as teaches students hands with paper towels as well as with a hand longer due to some plumbing issues. However, guidance and motivation are. In short, it’s shown about the business and entrepreneurship field. dryer. All the paper products in the bathrooms Landers said that the time necessary for me how important teamwork and leadership “Based on Club activities and projects, the CEO are made out of recycled material as well. Even renovating other bathrooms is expected to be are respectively.” Club inspires students to take action to run their the toilets are different. The bathrooms now use shorter due to better experience, and they should Shaw knew the importance of joining the own business and provides multiple experiential less water with toilets using around 1 gallon per also be able to trim the budget in the future as well. Club when she first visited GCC and met with a learning opportunities,” she said. flush, and urinals using to around half a gallon career counselor. “The ‘real world’ value of being Students also benefit from the scholarships a member of the Club was obvious, and I knew it it provides. “It is most important to share that as a non-profit entity within the college system, the CEO Club donates proceeds from all their product sales ECO-FEST! to student scholarships at Genesee,” said Shine. Here is the The CEO Club is currently working on tally for the a new food product to sell. Shine said, “This collection of would be our third product, and we hope to recyclables launch the product before the semester ends.” from the April Previous products included Apple Cider 6th Annual Syrup and Cinnamon Apple Pancake mix. These C o o l - K i d s products were sold at various places around ECO-FEST! the community. • E-Waste: The Club participated in the 30,000+ Celebrating Entrepreneurship lbs!!!!!!! Week at GCC March 28th • Sneakers: 225 pairs recycled through the 31st. “Celebrating (+6 pairs good enough for Entrepreneurship Week Salvation Army) offers all Genesee students an Ink cartridges: 165 opportunity to take part in some • competitive and fun events that • Flags: 44 Paperback books: 700 helps us celebrate the week of • the entrepreneur,” Shine said. • Attendance: Inside 900+ The GCC Library gets graphic • Attendance: Outside traffic GCC student Ritsuko Konai 600+ What are some of your favorite Cool-Kids & the participated in the 6th By Burton Mault • Total approximate Annual ECO-Fest at GCC things from being a kid? Sugary cereals? How Staff Writer about peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and { } attendance: 1,500 Environment. on April 6th. a good comic? Now you might be able to relive some of your childhood • Volunteers: 45+ memories. The Genesee Community College Library is now offering graphic • Vendors/ novels in its collection. Presenters Librarian Cindy Francis first started the library’s graphic novel (humans): 65+ collection during the fall of 2009. People were skeptic, since the Library is • Live Critters: 30+ mostly academically based. Would anyone actually read them? But the Library • 4 birds were agreed to fund the idea. banded near the “A common misconception is that graphic novels are just superhero Nature Trail comics and of juvenile content. Not true,” Francis said. “They are written in many genres including historical fiction, romantic comedies, and biographical -- they can be creative, intelligent and full of story as any book.” There were only ten at the beginning, but because they had a great response from the GCC students, the collection grew. The collection first included the Pulitzer Prize winning Maus I & II Holocaust titles by Art Spiegelman, a second generation Holocaust survivor. Other popular titles were Calvin & Hobbes and Watchmen. As time went on, people demanded more books. “We wanted to build a collection that reflected books students were interested in,” Francis said. “We encouraged suggestions and recruited in-house graphic novel guru Mike Garrett, who works in MarCom, to help with selections for our start-up collection. Mike also created our graphic novel sign, which is displayed above the collection. Part-time librarians Greg Keppel and Laura Dumuhosky also assisted with selections. Everyone had their favorites,” said Francis. “Students began checking them out like crazy. Most of the time more than half of the collection is checked out. For those that are out, students can place holds on them, and we can email them when they’re returned. Students appreciate this service and use it a lot.” The collection is currently right inside the first row of bookshelves in the library; it takes up about one section, and with the collection standing at 60 books right now, the Library staff is thinking of making more room for new books. “As long as students continue to be interested in graphic novels, we will continue to add quality titles,” Francis said.

History Buffs. During GCC’s Civil War Lecture Series, America’s Civil War. high school students participated in an essay contest, Instructor of History answering the question, “What Did/Does the Civil War Derek Maxfield speaks Mean to American Identity.” Pictured (left to right) are about the Civil War GCC Bookstore Manager Christopher Sackett; First during GCC’s Place Winner Sarah Lawson; Second Place Winner four part Civil War John Cole; GCC Instructor of History Derek Maxfield; Lecture Series. and Third Place Winner Matthew Sisto. the {NEW Courier 12} SPORTS By Aaron Apholz International students score with soccer { Staff Writer} The men’s soccer team at Genesee Community our soccer team was.” Almeida, however, is not too fond of the Kocyigit was the leading scorer on the team and was named to the College this year earned a ranking of seventh place in the spring semester because of how cold it gets. “I would rather First Team All Conference. After his successful season last year, nation with the help of all of their international players who live in California because it is always warm there,” he said. Kocyigit was named a co-captain alongside Estela. were recruited to come to this school by Coach Ken Gavin. This was not the first time Almeida had been in the Kocyigit did not have to worry too much about the The roster this year for the men’s team consisted of United States, however. In 2007, Almeida had been an exchange climate change, coming from England; however, he was not used eight players from the United States with thirteen players coming student to a high school in North Carolina. After going to school to the amount of snow that Western New York receives. He said, from four other continents, including Australia and Africa. This in North Carolina, he decided that he wanted to come back to “I did not expect this much snow. It’s pretty crazy actually.” brought in a wide variety of styles of play, which allowed the the United States and decided to come to GCC because it was Both of these players have found many new friendships, men’s team to play at a higher level. inexpensive, and he had heard that the soccer program was a and they have enjoyed their time here and both plan on graduating Kaleo Almeida, from Bahia, Brazil, said that “this good one. this semester. year was the best men’s soccer team GCC has ever put out.” The GCC men’s soccer program did well this year “I love the American culture…,” said Almeida, “and Almeida is a second year student, and he has played soccer here because of strong leadership from their coach and from the strong I would recommend studying abroad if they are given the for both of his years. He said, “I have enjoyed my time at this captainship of Daniel Kocyigit and Mike Estela. opportunity. I have learned so much from this experience, and I school because of the people here and because of how good Kocyigit is from Staffordshire, England. Last season do not regret any of it.” The program began in 2003 after Author discussions arose between public librarians { continued from page }5 of Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, pertaining to an area wide book discussion program. “It’s a pretty cool program because you receive a book for free and get the opportunity to meet an author,” said Leslie Delooze, one of the librarians who began the program. Since the program started at GCC, readers have had the opportunity to meet authors Hillary Jordan, Jennifer Donnelly, and Leif Enger and read their literature. The program introduces the GCC community to a wide variety of literature. Matt Bilohlavek, an English 105 student and one of the winners of the TTC essay contest, found that Mudbound was a great read. “Switching perspectives and not having just one voice throughout the book made it easy to follow,” said Bilohlavek. He was personally interested with the novel because he found that “Jaime was very relatable to myself being in the military and because we shared similar problems.” The story of Mudbound was written based on members of Hilary Jordan’s own family. “My family called my grandfather Pappy, and Laura is most like me,” said Jordan during her March 10th visit to GCC. “The name of my story is based off the name of my grandparents’ farm, also named Mudbound,” she said. “Originally the story started out as a short story, but eventually it turned into a full novel.” Hillary Jordan’s Mudbound took seven years to write, which included 11 different drafts and revisions. She believes it was her hardest novel to write because it was her first official novel. “Criticism was hard to take at first, but I appreciated it later when my book was complete and published,” she said. She was rejected twelve times by publications but struck gold when she won the Bell Weather Prize. After an extensive period of writing, revision, and rejection, Jordan said that “the writing itself is the hardest part of the whole process.” Her next novel, When She Woke, will be coming out in October. Below are the first and second place winners of The Tale for Three Counties essay contest concerning the novel Super had also felt inspired by teachers Mudbound by Hillary Jordan. Super he had in the past and realized that he wanted to continued from page 8 do the same for the students of today. “Everyone Overcoming Bondage { } has an incredibly strong commitment to student success,” he said, “but students can only truly succeed when they’re proactive and seek help and By Christopher Abdella First Place Essay Winner feedback early and often.” Super said that students should use the faculty of GCC as much as { } possible to get a complete learning experience and reach success. Hillary Jordan does well to illustrate a “The most important thing I’ve learned is the real difference between art and Art. In his community of struggling individuals, trapped in the class, I’ve learned not only that but the different styles and history behind art that I never learned in effort to not only survive, but to make something more of any art history class,” said Stephanie Fleming, a GCC student. themselves. Bound most by the hateful hand of southern Super has made an impression on many students at GCC, but who has influenced him? society are the African-Americans. But when one starts “I can name a group of people that have been incredibly influential, but not a single one who so low in the hierarchy, they are inevitably given more encapsulates everything. I think that’s a good thing though. No one is perfect, so if you use a single potential to excel. person as the model for most things then you’re bound to come up short somewhere,” said Super. Ronsel Jackson portrays such logic. His Super’s has goals because he takes pride in himself. While being accepted into RIT’s determination, will power, and his own unique “shine” photography graduate program was a major goal of his, it became an accomplishment. Coming lay the foundations for achieving more than what the from the small town of Kansas City, Super began his education at Pittsburg State University and general public would give him credit for. Southern racism ended it in the Rochester Institute of Technology for his graduate degree. degraded his morality, and that of the entire Jackson Super’s secondary goal has not yet been achieved. “I’m hoping that by the time I’m thirty family, to the point where they felt helpless against the wealth and stature of the “White Man.” I’ll be able to hike the Pacific Crest Trail in a summer, and by the time I’m thirty-five I want to be Stripped of all his liberty and dignity, Ronsel is utterly trapped at the hands of the able to take enough time to hike the Appalachian Trail without stopping.” hateful Ku Klux Klan, headed by a number of his own fellow townspeople. This punishment While Super has taught at GCC for only two semesters, his ways of teaching appear to was unjustifiable to the crime, a crime of love and acceptance in a foreign land. The former tank open the eyes of students to understand the meaning behind photography and art. Carrie Dylag, a commander, heralded a hero in World War II on the European front, was reduced to something less communications major at GCC, said, “Before Andy’s class, photography was just taking pictures. than human. Ronsel was lucky to escape with nothing gone but his pride and his tongue. Now I see it as a true art. The world appears so much clearer behind the lens of a camera.” Now bound by the color of his skin, his grief for his distant lover and son, and his status as a mute, Ronsel had little left to live for. But it wasn’t in the aspiring young man’s nature to give Toastmasters allows GCC to take into his sufferings, wallowing in self-pity. Though it’s not in plain text, we as readers know that the Toastmasters a leading position and respond to employers’ “shine” of Ronsel Jackson endured the pain, overcame it, and strived in his new life. He goes on to { continued from page }5 growing interest in soft skills That puts a premium get a college education, have a loving wife and family, overcome alcoholism, and find a job suitable on individuals with skills such as communicating, to his physical handicap. This leads me to believe that Ronsel best frees himself from his bondage, team-building, and leadership. GCC’s Toastmasters Club also focuses on popular techniques such the trapped existence of rural Mississippi. as mentoring and peer feedback evaluations. A fifteen week public speaking course does not give sufficient opportunity for individuals From Great Blue to Filthy Brown to gain confidence and to effectively formulate, express, and sell ideas to others. The GCC Jamie, what a character! He really is the square By Matthew Bilohlavek Toastmasters Club will open a whole new world of career possibilities for members so that they are peg trying to fit into that round hole, isn’t he? I do admire Second Place Essay Winner more persuasive and confident when giving presentations. the guy though. He does some wild transformations in this{ } The only medicine for the fear of public speaking is more speaking to the public! In this story. I really think that’s why I can relate to the boy. From war hero to drunken farm hand and Club, members learn to relax, to plan, and to present great speeches. The Club also helps individuals liberator to adulterer, this boy has many faces! to become more effective listeners, think on their feet, and speak confidently in a wide range of Jamie is the chick magnet of the family in Mudbound. It seems every woman who comes in situations. The best part of the Club is that members will practice in a friendly, safe, supportive contact with him is overwhelmed by his persona. Not even his brother’s “loving” wife can resist this environment with members who are there for the same reason – to become better communicators strapping young lad. This boy does go through changes though. He is actually in a state of turmoil, and leaders. which he tries to hide. Jamie comes back from the war as a hero and becomes a depository for any The club will operate during the summer semester and International students are also encouraged alcohol that wants to pry in his stomach. In this aspect I can absolutely relate to him. Jamie has a lot to join as their diversity adds great dimension to the organization. For more information contact Jackie of demons he is trying to drink away. I believe his father is making things a great bit more difficult. DiBella at [email protected] or John McGown at [email protected]. Through my childhood I had a father who was emotionally abusive toward me. I grew up thinking my name was “loser.” The same thing goes for Jamie in Mudbound. Jamie’s father is Pickreign said that he enjoys working at condescending towards him as well. After the war, Jamie delves into the alcohol like it’s a protein Pickreign GCC. “I feed off of the enthusiasm of prospective powder drink to a body builder. He doesn’t want to remember certain things and the liquor helps { continued from page }8 young teachers,” Pickreign said. He also said him forget. I drank massive amounts of alcohol to get away. But like Jamie, my father wouldn’t let that he enjoys seeing all the energy these future me forget. It’s too bad I didn’t have a pillow handy! teachers have and is excited to see such an interest in the profession. I can relate to Jamie in this book in many ways. I feel like his problems are my problems as He said that two of his biggest accomplishments were receiving the William Grobe Award well. Both of us could use some help on handling our problems a little better. for Principal of the year in New York State in 2010 and receiving a staff achievement award last about their time working at the location. spring. He felt that being recognized by his peers in this respect was quite an honor. Oral History The second option is to do a photo survey In Pickreign’s opinion, his biggest achievement as an educator, and the one that he is { continued from page 4} of the cemetery. Students would have to take 500 most proud of, is his relationships with students and staff. As an educator, he feels that developing digital photos of headstones and then catalog relationships, particularly with students, is essential. them. This not only allows Maxfield to continue his own research but also preserves local history Dave Voss, a chemistry teacher at Medina High School, said, “Wes Pickreign was both because the cemeteries are slowly disintegrating, falling into disrepair. a great teacher and administrator. I learned so much from him in the years he was principal at This kind of learning has opened up new direction for history students. Maxfield said he Medina High School. Every student was important to Wes, and he made a sincere effort to have a intends to keep these projects in his curriculum for some time to come. positive impact on their lives and help guide them towards success in the future.”