Lubrizol Honors SJC Central Students With Scholarships

The Lubrizol Foundation recently honored 32 technical education students during an awards presentation at San Jacinto College Central. Pictured are (from left, top row): Dustin Haney, Daniel Hammock, Casey Fries, Ramon Salazar, Sheena Trahan, Brian Blanton, Derek Haynes and Joshua Barnes. (Second row, from left): Martha Williams, Kelly Weatherly, Pamela Marshall, Michael West, Pamela Sweeney, Saori Miyano, Cortney Finney, Laura Quave, Brian Greenlee, and Dr. Steven Horton, Central Campus dean of evening and external services. (Bottom row, from left): Chris Hext, Lubrizol community relations manager, Courtney Lucas, Carrie Dembeck, Christine Finch, Elizabeth Lambright, Bonnie Anderson, Allison Whatley, Cristal Sage, Shauna McKinney, Loi Nguyen and Dr. Monte Blue, Central Campus president. 

The 22nd Lubrizol Foundation Scholarship Awards Presentation was held at San Jacinto College Central to honor 32 outstanding technical education students with scholarships.

The Central Campus received $13,600 from Lubrizol to fund 24 $400 scholarships for technical education majors and eight $500 scholarships for process technology students.

Since it began partnering with San Jac Central, the Lubrizol Foundation has donated $133,600 toward student scholarships, making 407 students recipients of the award. 

Behavioral/ Social Sciences and Business Administration Division recipients are: Carrie Dembeck of Pearland; and Pamela Marshall, Bonnie Anderson and Shameeda Mohammed, all Houston residents. Dembeck and Marshall are accounting/general business students, while Anderson and Mohammed are business office technology students.

This year’s Fine Arts/Language Arts Division recipient is Martha Williams of Houston, a visual communications student.

Health Sciences Division recipients are: Shauna McKinney of Lake Jackson; Derek Haynes, Loi Nguyen, Allison Whatley of Houston; Cortney Finney of Pasadena; Laura Quave of El Lago; and Cristal Sage of Deer Park. Whatley, Quave and Sage are associate degree nursing students while Haynes and Finney are medical imaging students. McKinney is a medical laboratory technician student and Nguyen is a respiratory care student.

Industrial Technology Division recipients are: Kelly Weatherly of Deer Park, an electrical technology student; Joshua Barnes of El Campo, a GM automotive technology student; Pamela Sweeney of Houston, an applied computer technology student; Casey Fries of Friendswood, an instrumentation technology student; and Brian Greenlee of Huffman, a non-destructive testing technology student.

The Services Technology Division Recipients are: Christine Finch of Houston, an interior design student; Courtney Lucas of Houston, a child development student; Martin Munoz of Pasadena, a criminal justice student; Nicholas Scally of San Leon, an aeronautical technology student; Ramon Salazar of Houston, a culinary arts student; Saori Miyano of Houston, a dietetics student; and Elizabeth Lambright of Pasadena, an interior design student.

Process Technology scholarship recipients are: Pamela Perry of Seabrook, Michael West of Houston, Dustin Haney of Pasadena, Trung Tran of Houston, Bradley Hall off La Porte, Sheena Trahan of Seabrook, Daniel Hammock of Deer Park and Brian Blanton of Pasadena.

To be eligible for the scholarship, a student must be enrolled full-time, be recognized as a sophomore, have a 3.0 minimum GPA, and be a major in one of the 30 plus technical education programs. The awards go to the students with the highest GPA's.

San Jac Scholarship Honors  
Resident Who Quietly Gave

Milton O. Stanley poses with his children, daughter Taylor (right) and son Michael. A scholarship has been established in his name through the San Jacinto College Foundation.

Rae Sinor remembers her brother, Milton O. Stanley Jr., as a humble man with a huge heart.

“ Milton had a powerful personality,” Sinor said. “He really loved people and if he knew someone who was in need, he would take care of them out of his own pocket or find someone who would. He really had the heart of a giant.” Rae and Milton along with younger siblings, Sharon and Linda, are the children of Precinct 8

Constable Bill Bailey.

The San Jacinto College Foundation is remembering Stanley by establishing the Milton O. Stanley Endowed Scholarship, which will assist select San Jacinto College students with tuition and book costs. The scholarship was established by Stanley ’s family and friends, who have already raised more than $20,000. Stanley died in a 2004 hunting accident.

“When we were growing up, he knew he was going to be successful and he wanted others to be successful, too,” Sinor said. “He had a Christian servant’s heart and always gave without expecting anything back. He was a true giver.”

Bailey said he is truly touched by people’s response to the scholarship.

“ Milton was a very special man who gave greatly to the less fortunate,” Bailey said of his son. “He was especially drawn to the helpless children.”

Stanley ’s family members related several stories that told of the kindheartedness Milton displayed.

On one occasion, Stanley was about to go on a hunting trip and made one final stop at a local Academy store. On his way out the store, Stanley saw a row of bicycles, numbering about 20 in all. He went inside, struck a deal with the manager and bought every one of the bicycles. He then proceeded to deliver the bicycles to children housed at The Bridge, a local shelter, and requested they be given anonymously.

Another time, Stanley took some of the children from The Bridge to see Christmas lights in his truck. This particular Christmas, it was unusually cold for Texas . He noticed that most of the children had no coats or jackets. Afterward, he went to Wiener’s on Center Street in Deer Park and bought each child a coat. Again, he requested that no credit be given for his generosity.

Stanley also was instrumental in establishing C-Notes, a fundraising group involved with the Pasadena Livestock Show and Rodeo. Through the group, participants could make a minimum donation of $100 that would benefit Future Farmers of America students.

 “The scholarship is a way of keeping Milton ’s giving spirit alive by forever helping students receive an education,” said Wayne Webb, president of Republic National Bank in Pasadena and close friend of the family’s.

Dr. Bill Lindemann, San Jac chancellor, also noted Stanley ’s dedication to giving.

“ Milton demonstrated many degrees of goodness,” Lindemann said. “The scholarship will carry on his memory, kindness and generosity for generations to come.”

The San Jacinto College Foundation was formed in 1996 and is a nonprofit 501 © (3) corporation that is fiscally and organizationally separate from San Jacinto College . Bailey is one of the Foundation’s founding members.

Donations are being accepted in the form of cash, check or credit card and can be submitted through the San Jac Foundation office at 4624 Fairmont Parkway, Suite 208 , Pasadena , Texas 77504 .

More information is available by calling (281) 998-6104 or e-mailing nancy.thacker@sjcd.edu.   

NADE Certifies San Jac Central  
Language Skills Program

Dr. LeeAnn Morris, San Jacinto College Central language skills professor, spearheaded an effort to receive National Association for Developmental Education certification for the Central Campus Language Skills Department.  

The San Jacinto College Central Language Skills Department was recently notified that its developmental reading and writing program has been certified by the National Association for Developmental Education (NADE).

NADE certification recognizes programs that meet or exceed criteria of good practices as defined by professional research and literature of the field. The program components eligible for certification are tutoring services, adjunct instructional programs and

developmental coursework. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board has asked all community colleges to seek certification of their developmental programs from NADE as part of the "Closing the Gaps" initiative.

Dr. LeeAnn Morris, Central Campus language skills professor, spearheaded the effort to receive the certification, which is valid until August 2012.

“This is an important accomplishment for the Central Campus,” Morris said. “We have examined our policies and services very carefully, evaluated them against rigorous national standards and have made changes where they were warranted.  Faculty, staff, students and the public can be confident that our developmental reading and writing programs meet those national standards and that we are constantly looking for ways we can improve.”

A self-intensive study began in the spring of 2001 with representatives from the developmental reading, writing and math programs holding face-to-face meetings to discuss and evaluate the programs. The results were then quantified and explained in written form. Based on these results, a plan was generated for improvement.

The final application to NADE included the self-studies, an extensive written narrative that described the self-study process and results, and an exhaustive set of supporting documentation such as student success and retention rates, evaluation of syllabi, evaluation of faculty and staff credentials -- close to 400 pages for reading/writing and math programs. The applications were submitted in May 2003.

Reviewers from NADE examined the applications, asked for revisions and upon completion of the revisions awarded the certification.

“The purpose of the process is to ensure that we continue to examine our programs and make the changes necessary to provide the best possible support so students can succeed in college,” Morris said.

Morris began teaching developmental reading and writing classes as an adjunct professor at the Central Campus in 1984.  She has been a full-time faculty member in the Language Skills and Education Departments since 1989. 

She was honored as the Central Campus Outstanding Faculty Member and Minnie Piper Nominee in 1996.

San Jac South Electronics Technology  
Program Puts Students, Community First

According to Carlton Simmank, electronics instructor, San Jacinto College South is community minded, especially when it comes to its electronics technology program.

“We are always considering ways and means to update and improve our programs,” Simmank said. “Our instructors take a sincere interest in students and their education.”

Simmank added that certified electronic technicians are in high demand in the workforce. Electronics technicians work in a diverse field consisting of communications, entertainment, instrument repair and maintenance, manufacturing, engineering assistance, vending and game installation, and computer and electronics sales.

Students who graduate from the program have been known to work at places such as Fry’s Electronics, Boeing and Barrios Technology, Inc.

The South Campus offers an Associate of Applied Science degree, a Certificate of Technology and two Occupational Certificates. These allow students to become qualified and start work in a short amount of time.

“Most employers encourage their employees to seek further education and receive certification,” Simmank said. “Some even pay all or part of your tuition.”

The program boasts a 95 percent passing rate and a 100 percent placement rate.

More information is available by calling (281) 998-6150 or e-mailing carlton.simmank@sjcd.edu.

Registration for spring 2006 is ongoing until Jan. 11, 2006. To register via the Web, log on to www.sjcd.edu. To register by telephone, call (281) 998-7600.

Raven Coach Honored For 500 Wins

Scott Gernander (right) was given an honorary plaque in celebration of his 500^th win as head coach of the San Jacinto College Central Raven men’s basketball team at the monthly San Jacinto College Board of Regents meeting Monday night. Gernander reached this milestone when the Ravens defeated Odessa College 65-60 in November.  In his 18 years, Raven teams have won the conference championship 13 times and have either won or tied for the conference title the past nine seasons.

Gernander-led teams have advanced to the national tournament seven times and finished as high as second place. 

Also pictured is Dr. Bill Raffetto, Central Campus vice president of student services.  

San Jac South Professors Mentor
Gifted Computer Students 

Jim Meeks (middle), San Jacinto College South computer information technology professor, assists Charlie Powell (left) and James Bellah in a computer class at Westbrook Middle High School . Charlie is an eighth grader at the school and is also the co-teacher of the class, which is a part of the Gifted and Talented Webster Academy Visions in Education (WAVE) program.

Charlie Powell teaches his students about

computers. He teaches them how they work, their history and even how to build them.

Charlie is a student himself – he is an eighth grader at Westbrook Middle High School . He is enrolled in the school’s Gifted and Talented Webster Academy Visions in Education (WAVE) program. He and co-teacher Berk Gercek, also an eighth grader, instruct several other magnet students from all across the Clear Creek Independent School District . 

Two computer information technology professors from San Jacinto College South – Jim Meeks and Pamela Betts – are on hand to make sure what Charlie and Berk are teaching the students is true and accurate. Meeks and Betts are assisted by Karen Davis, a Westbrook instructor who offers her expertise on computer matters.

“Our role is to listen,” said Meeks. “Charlie is the designer of the class and Berk is the interpreter, the one who puts things in layman’s terms. We back up the information as technical advisors.”

In the class, Charlie covers subjects such as loading operating systems, troubleshooting, configuring BIOS, loading external software, Blu-ray format and the history of computers.

“You can predict the future of computers by studying their past,” Charlie said.

He also conducts the research, puts together the class syllabus and keeps up with current events relating to computers.

The San Jac South professors became involved in the program after Candace Silcott, Westbrook Intermediate WAVE gifted and talented magnet liaison, was contacted by Dr. Eddie Weller, San Jac South honors director and history professor.

“These are not just how-to classes,” Silcott said. “They are real in-depth studies where the students work with professionals in the field.”

The classes cover a wide variety of topics such as animated art, Adobe Photoshop, flight ground school, robotics, playing the guitar and even the Titanic.

“For the Titanic class, for example, it’s not just a study of the chronology of events but maritime laws, how the disaster impacted regulations, the life of people onboard, the ship’s design – we go into many different levels,” Silcott said.

Every grading period, the students are given a choice of 20 to 25 mini-courses offered in four-and-a-half and nine-week formats. Students choose five classes that interest them the most. Some of the classes are taught by students; however, most are taught by professionals. 

Anyone interested in one of the Gifted and Talented classes can e-mail Silcott at csilcott@ccisd.net.

Oliver Elected Vice President Of TAHPERD

Dr. Suzanne Oliver, San Jacinto College South dance professor, has been elected to serve as vice president of the dance division of the Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.

Dr. Suzanne Oliver, San Jacinto College South dance professor, has been elected to serve as vice president of The Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (TAHPERD) dance division.

Oliver will serve as chair-elect this year and as chair next year. She will also oversee the activities relating to the state convention in Galveston in 2007.

“It’s an honor to be held in such high esteem,” Oliver said. “Anytime you take on a job with a lot of responsibility there is a degree of anxiety, but I am looking forward to the challenge.” 

As vice president, Oliver said she hopes to increase participation in the dance division, bridge the gap between K-12 and college dance educators and encourage her college and university colleagues to become more involved.

“The K–12 teachers want concrete ideas that they can take back to their students, and college/university teachers can provide that support,” Oliver said.

Simultaneously, she would like to see the conventions offer learning and information that is exciting and useful for college dance teachers.

“It’s about communication and collaboration so that we can bridge the physical education/dance divide,” Oliver added.

TAHPERD is a non-profit professional association of people in the allied fields of health education, physical education, recreation and dance. The Texas-based association has over 4,500 members. 

San Jac North Student Serves Up 
Tasty Dishes At Competition

Latara Ingraham is congratulated by Steven Rudd, San Jacinto College North culinary services director, after winning a gold medal for her five-course menu called The Taste of the Caribbean at the recent 2005 Culinary Arts Competition, held at the North Campus.

The aroma of delicious food ranging from exotic Caribbean dishes to cinnamon-sprinkled bananas and ice cream filled the Monument Room during the recent 2005 San Jacinto College North Culinary Arts Competition.

a gold medal for her five-course menu called The Taste of the Caribbean.

Andrea Huerta is congratulated by Steven Rudd, San Jacinto College North culinary services director, after winning a gold medal in the pastry category for Dr. Seuss-themed cake at the recent 2005 Culinary Arts Competition, held at the North Campus.

Andrea Huerta of Highlands won the gold for her Dr. Seuss-themed cake in the pastry category. Other winners included Jordan Asher and Adam Garcia, both of Houston , in the overall category. Asher won a silver medal for his six cold

appetizer plates and Garcia won a bronze medal for his five-course menu. Arianna Olvera of Pasadena won a silver medal for her novelty cake in the pastry category.

The dishes were judged by Diane Larson, owner of Just Lunch & Catering in Houston, and Ben Fonbuena, Rice University executive chef. Both are members of the Texas Chef Association.

The event drew the attention of KTRK-13’s reporter Cynthia Cisneros, who interviewed Ingraham live at the event.

First place winners received a $300 scholarship, while second place winners received a $200 scholarship. Third place winners were awarded a $100 scholarship.

“The competition is not about winning, but learning,” said Steven Rudd, North Campus culinary services director. “In the culinary arts industry, it is important to keep growing. That is what I try to instill in my students.”

More information about the North Campus Culinary Arts program is available by calling (281) 998-6150 or e-mailing steven.rudd@sjcd.edu.

San Jac South Choir
Donates $1,000 To Charity

The San Jacinto South College Choir/Pro Music Club recently donated $1,000 to Interfaith Caring Ministries (ICM) to help support long-term relief efforts for victims of Hurricane Katrina in the Bay Area.

Pictured are (from left): Jennifer Hart, the club’s president; Sherri Cabler, ICM executive director; and Maureen Richardson, vice-president.

The San Jacinto South College Choir/Pro Music Club knows the true meaning of giving rather than receiving.

The club recently donated $1,000 to Interfaith Caring Ministries (ICM), an assistance coalition supported by local congregations, organizations, businesses and individuals, to help support long-term relief efforts for victims of Hurricane Katrina in the Bay Area. Jennifer Hart, the club’s president, and Maureen Richardson, vice-president, presented the donation to ICM’s Executive Director Sherri Cabler on Nov. 22.

“This was a comprehensive effort on their part,” said David Sloat, San Jac music professor.  “I am very proud of the students and their efforts in fundraising for programs like Interfaith Caring Ministries.” 

Each semester the club designates a community service project that benefits from its fundraising efforts, largely through admission donations to on-campus musical performances.  This fall, nearly $700 was raised through the department’s presentation of “Kaleidoscope,” a music and dance variety show.

“The choir voted to supplement our gift with funds in the club’s account, in order to make it an even thousand,” Hart said. “We have a real concern for these people and want to do what we can to help them back on their feet.” 

Cabler was excited to receive the donation. “It is through the generosity of groups like the San Jac South Choir that we are able to continue to help those in need,” Cabler said. “It is an honor to partner with the choir and we are very appreciative of the gift.”

ICM provides assistance for people in crisis and helps to facilitate their path to self-sufficiency. It has a pantry filled with various types of food and helps with financial assistance, paying utility bills, providing school clothes, prescriptions and makes visits to senior citizens. The organization also provides scholarship to single parents so they can continue their education.

The San Jac South club has been involved in community service projects including the Heifer Project International and the South Campus Fine Arts Scholarship Fund.  For information on performances or to donate through the choir, please contact Sloat at (281) 484-1900 ext. 3563 or e-mail david.sloat@sjcd.edu.

San Jac South Theatre
Presents ‘The Nuncrackers’

The San Jacinto College South Theatre Department is presenting the “nunsense” Christmas musical “The Nuncrackers,” a holiday treat that features audience participation.

The play takes place in the basement of Mount Saint Helen’s convent where the Rev. Mother has built a television studio for taping the annual Christmas program. Real cameras will be used during the play and audience members are invited to sing along with traditional and new Christmas songs.   

The play opened Dec. 7 and continues through Dec. 11. The house opens at 7:30 p.m. and curtain time is 8 p.m. Dec. 8, 9 and 10. A special matinee performance is scheduled at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11.

The play is being held in the studio theatre of the Marie Spence Flickinger Fine Arts Center, 13735 Beamer Road , Houston .

All tickets are $5 and there will be no late seating.

Call (281) 922-3497 or e-mail liz.lacy@sjcd.edu for reservations or more information.

Watkins Wins AEOP 2005
Boss Of The Year Award

Dr. Linda Watkins (right), San Jacinto College South president, was recently selected as the San Jacinto College Association of Educational Office Personnel (AEOP) 2005 Boss of the Year. Also pictured is Patti Walling, San Jac research administrative assistant and AEOP secretary

Dr. Linda Watkins, San Jacinto College South president, is the winner of the San Jacinto College Association of Educational Office Personnel (AEOP) 2005 Boss of the Year award.

Watkins was chosen for her dynamic leadership, commitment to education, positive focus, use of effective motivational techniques and her ability to inspire comradeship among the employees at the South Campus.

“She has made a remarkable difference for the faculty and staff at San Jac South,” said Jeanie Wright, Watkins’ administrative assistant. “Since coming here five years ago, she has exhibited a leadership style that is unequalled in effectiveness, diplomacy and has the utmost respect for everyone on campus.”

Wright nominated Watkins for the award.

“This award is such an honor,” Watkins said. “It’s a pleasure to work at a great institution such as San Jacinto College and with wonderful employees. You could not ask for a better working environment.”

The AEOP is a support association for the college that provides professional development opportunities for its members through networking, guest speakers and a variety of other events.   

Watkins previously served as vice president of instruction at the South Campus before becoming president in 2003. She had served as dean of instruction at Tyler Junior College .

She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Texas at Arlington and received a master’s of science and doctor of education degree from Texas A&M-Commerce.

Watkins is married with two daughters: one a physician, the other has a master’s in library science. Her husband, Dr. John Watkins, is a dentist.

San Jac South Soccer Team Makes  
Nationals Second Year In A Row

David Santesteban, San Jacinto College South Coyote Men’s Soccer head coach, believes his team is one of destiny. They are headed to back-to-back appearances at the National Junior College Athletic Association’s National Championship Tournament at Tyler Junior College .

According to David Santesteban, San Jacinto College South Coyote Men’s

Soccer head coach, his club could be a team of destiny.

For the second straight year, the team is heading to the National Junior College Athletic Association’s (NJCAA) National Championship Tournament at Tyler Junior College . The team qualified for the back-to-back trip after defeating Hinds Community College 4-2 to take the NJCAA Mid-Southwest District Championship crown.

The team ended its regular season with a 13-5-1 record and is ranked 13^th nationally.

“I think we are as good as anyone at this point,” Santesteban said. “Despite some key injuries, we have plenty of depth and have overcome a lot to make it this far.”

This is also Santesteban’s second year as head coach of the soccer team. In the short time he has headed the team, a lot has been accomplished.

“It has been very satisfying to achieve goals as a coach day in and day out,” Santesteban said. “Everyone on the team has been a contributor, some with goals and others with assists. We won at times when we needed to get a win.”

The Coyotes are coming into the tournament as the fifth seed. They take on Georgia Perimeter College first, last year’s runner-up.         

“This will be a true test of character this week,” Santesteban said. “We have faced many challenges this season and feel confident about our chances. We are ready.”

San Jac Flying High After Partnering
With Delta Connection Academy

Dr. Bill Lindemann (right), San Jacinto College chancellor, and Tom Montgomery, Delta Connection Academy president, exchange handshakes after signing an agreement making Delta Connection Academy the college’s flight training contractor. The agreement helps meet the demand for regional pilots in this area.

Under the blue skies at Ellington Field last week, the jets were not the only things soaring - so were the spirits of San

Jacinto College and Delta Connection Academy employees after hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating a new partnership between the two institutions.

Delta Connection Academy , a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta Air Lines, will serve as the college's new flight training contractor and teach students to become pilots in the Central Campus' aviation program.  Through intense airline developed primary training programs and advanced regional jet aircraft training, Delta Connection Academy consistently provides quality, well-trained, airline oriented First Officer candidates to meet the increasing demand of the regional airline industry.

San Jacinto College ’s ground instructors bring more than 260 years of aviation experience and over 43,000 flight hours of experience to the partnership with the Academy.

“ San Jacinto College has had a solid aviation program for more than 35 years,” said Dr. Bill Lindemann, San Jac chancellor. “Our agreement with Delta Connection Academy adds another chapter to the program's illustrious history of providing well-trained pilots for the airline industry.”

The San Jac/Delta Connection Academy partnership has several advantages: aviation majors receive college credit for Academy training, which is conducted at Ellington Field, and all training fits airline pilot standards and is completed using fully-equipped aircraft.

The agreement will also help meet the increased demand for regional pilots in this area. Due in large to expansions and retirements, the airline has hired over 8,300 pilots so far in 2005, with over 4,600 of those hired as regional pilot airlines. According to industry experts, the total number of pilots hired is forecast to exceed 10,000 by the end of 2005 and hiring is expected to continue at a rate of 8,000 to 10,000 new pilots per year through 2010. 

“Over the last few years, the regional jet industry has expanded at a rapid pace,” said Tom Montgomery, Delta Connection Academy president. “Our partnership with San Jacinto College augments the school's already fantastic aviation program and generates more graduates to fill pilot positions at the airlines that rely on us for quality candidates.”

Airlines that interview our students who successfully complete the program include, but are not limited to, Delta Connection Carriers, American Eagle Airlines, Express Jet Airlines, and many of our other airline affiliates.  With a fleet of more than 110 aircraft the Academy has trained students from 89 different countries and placed pilots with 26 airlines. 

The FAA has granted Delta Connection Academy flight examination authority, lowering overall aircraft hours and expenses for students. The Academy also has an outstanding safety record.

Students enrolled in the program are very enthusiastic about the partnership.

“The San Jac Central aviation program has made my dreams come true,” said Cody Weckwerth, San Jac Central aviation student. “From the moment I first joined the program, I knew I was in good hands. The professionalism demonstrated by the Delta Connection Academy instructors here is incredible. If you want to learn to fly, there isn't a better place to go.” 

Graduates of the program can continue their education in aviation or transfer to an aerospace university. Three aviation programs lead to the two-year Associate in Science degree - Pilot Development Program, done through the Delta Connection Academy partnership; Aviation Maintenance Management, which prepares students who have a FAA airframe and power plant certificate with managerial skills for the operation of airline maintenance departments; and Aviation Management, which prepares students for managerial and operational aspects of airport, airlines, general aviation sales and services, or in government agencies serving aviation.

The department also offers an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate of Technology.  Completion of this certificate prepares the student for employment for any airline or aviation company that dispatch or controls flight operations.

San Jac remains the only community college on the Gulf Coast to offer such a program, and one of only a few in the state of Texas . More information about the program is available by logging on to www.sjcd.edu/aviation;   calling (281) 478-2789; or e-mailing robert.willhoite@sjcd.edu.

ABC Power Breakfast Being Held For Small
Business Owners In Southeast Harris County

Small business owners are invited to participate in the Alliance Business Connection (ABC) Power Breakfast being held from 7 to 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 1 at the Galena Park ISD Administration Building , 14705 Woodforest Boulevard , Houston

The event is a project of the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, a non-profit economic development entity, and is co-sponsored by the San Jacinto College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the Port of Houston Authority . Other sponsors include the Houston Small Business Development Corporation; the Houston Minority Business Development Center; Harris County; Small Business Administration; and S.C.O.R.E.

The purpose of ABC is to bring large corporations, government agencies and small companies together for the purpose of doing business.

“The breakfast provides an opportunity for small business owners to network with procurement managers and each other to find business matches that are likely to result in contracts,” said Michael Moore, SBDC director.    

Procurement managers; entrepreneurs; bankers; and representatives of organizations that support entrepreneurs with free counseling services are all invited to take part in the breakfast.

The breakfast includes an optional breakout session with Scott Singleton on “Coffee Retailing for Beginners.”

Information on how to participate in contracting and procurement programs will be available at the breakfast and a question and answer session will be included.

A $5 fee will be accepted at the door.

More information is available by calling the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region at (832) 864-4021or e-mail kathy@allianceportregion.com.

San Jac North Invites All To ‘First Step to English Success’  
Information Night Nov. 29

San Jacinto College North is hosting a “First Step to English Success” Information Night from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29 in the Monument Room, located inside the Slovacek Student Center , 5800 Uvalde, Houston .

“We are inviting the community to know more about opportunities to improve English language skills offered at San Jac,” said Myrna Gonzalez, North Campus Reading and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) department chair. “They can come here and learn English to help them get a better job and hopefully begin to pursue a college degree.”

Dr. Sarah Janes, North Campus dean of instruction, will give an overview about the different programs available at the college. Counselors will also be on hand to explain about the services the counseling department offers.

College representatives have planned the event be as fun as well as informative. Food, refreshments, door prizes and a drawing to win two scholarships to study English will be part of the evening’s activities.

More information is available by calling (281) 458-4050 ext. 7390 or ext. 7383 and e-mailing myrna.gonzalez@sjcd.edu.

                   
Upcoming Registrations
Announced At San Jac

Early online and telephone registration for San Jacinto College ’s 2005 winter-mini and 2006 spring semesters is available 24 hours-a-day beginning Monday, Nov. 14. 

Students can early register for winter-mini classes through Dec. 15 and spring classes until Jan. 11, 2006. Anyone registering after these dates must pay at the time of registration.

Students who want to register via the Web may log on to www.sjcd.edu. To register via telephone, call (281) 998-7600.  

On-campus registration for the 2006 spring semester is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12 for all students. Web and telephone registration will also be available that day until 7 p.m.

The 2005 winter-mini term begins Monday, Dec. 19 and also offers academic classes such as math, history, English and government. Other courses available during this semester include business office technology, philosophy, geography and psychology.

The 2006 spring semester begins Tuesday, Jan. 17 and offers academic courses such as math, history, English and government. Other courses include computer information systems, engineering design graphics, culinary arts, cosmetology, music and criminal justice. Students should refer to the San Jac class schedule for information on which campus specific classes are offered.

Some classes are available through distance learning, a program allowing students to take classes from their homes through the Internet, videotape, or videoconference delivery at San Jac campuses.

Students who have not attended during the past year should submit an application.  Some of these students may need to complete necessary placement testing and are advised to speak to a counselor. Application submissions and testing should be completed at least one day prior to telephone/web registration. An online application form is now available at www.sjcd.edu.   

All students who are required to take developmental courses must see a counselor prior to telephone/web registration. A web and telephone registration worksheet can be found inside the San Jac class schedule. A copy of the schedule is available online at www.sjcd.edu and at all three campuses.

More information concerning the registration process is available by calling (281) 998-6150.

No need to adjust your eyes -- Kim, Cynthia, Melissa and Laura Berner are a set of quadruplets attending San Jacinto College North. Each says the college is attractive on many levels – affordability, convenience and a great teaching staff. They say their lives are never boring and they have no trouble making friends. In fact, they consider themselves more like friends than sisters.

Quadruplets All Together  
At San Jacinto North 

Once is a coincidence, twice is a trend and three times is a conspiracy.

Four times? That’s the Berner sisters.   

Kim, Cynthia, Melissa and Laura Berner are quadruplets who all attend San Jacinto College North.

Being quadruplets poses many unique situations, including some very humorous ones. For instance, friends will go up to one sister thinking they are talking to another sister. Sometimes they play along.

Even relatives have trouble telling them apart.

“It’s never boring,” Kim said. “It’s easy for us to make friends and we always have someone who has our back.”

Although the sisters look alike, they have vastly different personalities. Kim describes herself being “like a book and very studious.” Cynthia, who bears the nickname Princess, says she is independent and likes hip-hop music. Melissa is athletic and says she is like the mother of the girls. She is also the only one with a driver’s license. Laura is more carefree and says her sisters describe her as “the crazy one.”

“We grew up more as friends instead of as sisters,” Melissa said. “We share everything and get along great.”

The fact that all four girls decided to attend San Jac North together is a testament to how much of an important factor education, and the college, is to them.

“The people here at San Jac North really care about what you get out of their class,” Cynthia said. “They all respond positively to us. The college is great.”

All of the girls are education-minded. Kim is planning to transfer to Texas A&M University when she is finished with San Jac North to pursue a career in accounting. Cynthia also plans to transfer to Texas A&M University and hopes to become a veterinarian. Melissa is enrolled in North’s licensed vocational nursing program and plans to pursue a career in pediatrics. Laura is currently enrolled in the pharmacy program.

“The college is attractive on many levels,” Laura said. “It’s affordable, conveniently located and has a great teaching staff.”

One thing the girls want to convey is although they have the same physical features, they are their own person inside.

“We want to be known as individuals,” Laura said. “Just because we look the same does not mean we are the same people. We are very close, however. We tell each other and share everything.”

They also do not want anyone to be intimidated by their quadruplication.

“Some people may be scared to talk to us, but they shouldn’t be,” Laura said. “We are friendly and love meeting new people. So if anyone sees us, just say ‘Hi!’”

The girls live at home with their parents in Humble and have one brother who resembles them.

San Jac North Presenting
Russian Extravaganza

Internationally-known musicians Alexander Chernyshev and Betsy Husby are performing a “Russian Extravaganza” at San Jacinto College North at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8 in the theatre of the Fine Arts Center , 5800 Uvalde, Houston .

The concert is free.

Chernyshev is an accomplished pianist while Husby is formidable cellist. Together, they have delighted international audiences with their emotionally charged performances for nearly three decades.

They have performed in the prestigious Tchaikovsky Competition and with the Petrozavodsk Symphony Orchestra.

Both musicians are on staff at the University of Minnesota at Duluth . They received a grant from the university to perform locally and nationally to give the public an opportunity to listen to beautiful music created by Russian composers. Their CD was released recently and is available for purchase.

For more information, call (281) 998-6150 or e-mail randy.snyder@sjcd.edu.

Vela Hired As San Jac North Associate Dean of Student Success

 Dr. Robert Vela takes over as San Jacinto College North’s associate dean of student success.

Dr. Robert Vela has been hired as the new North Campus associate dean of student success.

Vela hails from Alice , Texas but has spent most of his professional career in Kingsville , Texas . He has worked with student services at Texas A&M 

University/Kingsville and Coastal Bend College .

His duties place him close with the students in areas such as counseling, job placement, career orientation and discipline.

In his new position, Vela hopes to collaborate with students by exploring ways of bringing them to the college including holding community events where the parents can also get involved.

“Reaching students is a key aspect of my job,” Vela said. “I plan to invest all of my energy in making San Jacinto College North a great experience for students.”

Vela also said he intends to develop strong ties with local school districts.

Vela holds a doctorate in educational leadership, obtained from Texas A&M University/Kingsville and Corpus Christi where he also has a master’s degree in counseling.

Vela has a wife and two daughters and resides in the Spring area.  

Jack Kent Cooke Scholarships 
Available to San Jac Students

San Jacinto College students who plan to transfer to an accredited four-year college or university for the fall 2006-spring 2007 terms can now apply to the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship program.

The foundation awards scholarships to students in the spring of 2006 for use during the 2006-2007 academic school year. In order to be considered for an award, students must be nominated by their institutions. The deadline for receipt of all 2005 nominations is Friday, Jan. 9, 2006.

The award provides funding for tuition, room and board, required fees and books. Award amounts vary based upon the institution and cannot exceed $30,000 annually. Scholarships are renewable each year if the recipient continues to excel academically and to meet the program's requirements.

To be eligible for a scholarship, a student must attend a community college or a two-year institution that is located in the U.S. and fully licensed and/or accredited and have completed sophomore credits by Dec. 31. Also, students must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale, be a recent college graduate (within the last five years) and transfer to an accredited four-year institution for the fall 2006 term.

Interested candidates should contact Elena Oliver, Central Campus financial aid director, at (281) 476-1856; Dr. Eddie Weller, South Campus honors director, at (281) 484-1900 ext. 3505; or Dr. Sarah Janes, North Campus dean of instruction, at (281) 459-7623. Students can also log on to www.jackkentcookefoundation.org. 

Anti-Bioterrorism Professor
Visiting San Jac South

Samuel J. Watson, founder of the BioMedical Security Institute (BMSI), is coming to San Jacinto College South from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Thursday Nov. 10 in the theater of the Marie Spence Flickinger Fine Arts Center , 13735 Beamer, Houston .

Watson is an associate professor of public health practice and special assistant to the senior vice chancellor at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health. He founded BMSI to advance the nation’s ability to detect, analyze, prevent and respond to natural events and acts of terrorism involving biological agents.

He has previously served as a member of the White House staff as a deputy assistant to then-president George Bush; a member of the nuclear arms control negotiating teams with the Soviet Union ; and as a special assistant to the director of the Central Intelligence Agency.

Watson’s visit is a part of the South Campus’ Art/Science Institute, a initiative which uses a collaborative approach to encourage students to pursue an interest in cross-disciplinary areas such as technology, engineering, art, math and science.

The institute also offers outreach programs for area elementary, middle and high schools.

Call (281) 922-3473 or e-mail ann.tate@sjcd.edu for more information

Courses Announced for
Business Owners, Managers

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at San Jacinto College is offering a series of training courses for small business owners and managers during the month of November.

First-Step: A Business Startup Workshop is a 12-hour workshop offered in four segments from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays Nov. 1, 8 and 15 and on Thursday, Nov. 17 at the SBDC in Pearland, 2006 E. Broadway, Pearland. Participants learn how to determine the market potential for new business ideas and conduct a feasibility study. The cost is $40.

Business Plan: Blueprint to Success is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3 at the SBDC Central Campus location, 8060 Spencer Highway , Pasadena . This workshop helps business owners formulate a business plan, which will serve as a guideline for managing a company and supports an application for a bank loan. In addition, quick and easy tips for writing a plan are provided. The cost for the workshop is $25.

Introductory QuickBooks is being offered from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3 at the SBDC Pearland location. This class covers the setting up of a company, invoicing, payables, journal entries, reconciliation and other necessary functions. Class is taught by a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor instructor. A Q-and-A session and troubleshooting time are provided. The cost is $79 and is non-refundable.

Small Business Tax Workshop is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10 at the SBDC Central Campus location. This workshop, designed by the IRS, helps participants figure out what forms to use and how to fill them out for their businesses. Also, recent changes that may affect a business owner are covered. There is no fee for this class.

Starting A Business is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10 at the SBDC North Campus location, 5800 Uvalde, Houston and from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1 at the SBDC Pearland location. This class helps participants consider their personal skills and experience, the marketing potential of ideas, general rules for small business operation and sources of funding. There are no fees for this class.

Understanding Government Contracting is scheduled from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15 at the SBDC Central Campus location. This seminar explains the standard policies and procedures for selling to the government, how the government advertises opportunities and competition requirements. There is no fee for this course.

Small Business Tax Workshop is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1 at the SBDC Central Campus location. This workshop, designed by the IRS, helps participants figure out what forms to use and how to fill them out for their businesses. Also, recent changes that may affect a business owner are covered. There is no fee for this class.

To register for these classes or for more information, call (281) 485-5214 or e-mail Mike Moore, SBDC director, at michael.moore@sjcd.edu. 

  NSF Scholarships Available 

For Spring 2006 At San Jac What do you want to be when you grow up?

It is a question many people face – and San Jacinto College can help answer it thanks to a series of National Science Foundation (NSF) scholarships available for spring 2006.

The scholarships are for new and continuing students seeking associate’s degrees in computer science/information systems, engineering and mathematics (CSEM).

These degrees also cover areas such as aeronautical technology (pilot), computer/electronics technology, geographic information systems, non-destructive technology and process technology.

The scholarships can be up to $1,510 per semester and includes special support services. Job placement, job shadowing and internship opportunities also accompany the program.

To apply, submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid by Monday, October 31. To ensure consideration, students need to submit an application to attend San Jac, if not already admitted; official transcripts for all high school and college course work; a one-page essay about how the CSEM scholarship will help meet educational and career goals and a letter of recommendation from a faculty member. The application, transcripts and essay should be submitted by Tuesday, Nov. 15.

The college was awarded the scholarships in 2004 totaling $181,200 with the intention of delivering 30 of these scholarships in three years. These funds are geared toward assisting students to obtain an associate’s degree and enter the job market or to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program.

The grant meets a local need in recruiting historically underrepresented groups for higher education. Since the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board initiated its “Closing the Gaps” mandate, San Jac has made strides to increase its enrollment of Hispanics and other underrepresented groups of students.

San Jac has programs that CSEM students could greatly benefit from through the NSF grant. The college’s involvement with the Aerospace Academy provides an avenue to a career in engineering. Also, programs such as the Upward Bound, GEAR UP, Talent Search, STEP and the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation all provide opportunities and valuable resources for the students. San Jac is also working in partnership with the CSEMS and TxCSS grant programs at University of Houston Clear Lake to assist scholars in a smooth transfer.

Joan Mullinax, San Jac North Campus computer information systems professor, will lead the grant’s district-wide team. Dr. Marie Dalton, executive vice president of the Aerospace Academy for Engineering and Teacher Education, and her team developed the grant proposal. 

More information about how to benefit from the grant is available by calling Mullinax at (281) 458-4050 ext. 7241.


Pettitte-Sponsored Golf Tournament  
Could Be Biggest Fundraiser So Far

This year’s San Jacinto College Foundation Golf Tournament featuring Andy Pettitte of the Houston Astros is expected to be the biggest fundraiser yet, according to college officials.

The previous nine tournaments have raised over $550,000, with last year’s event bringing in $105,000. This year the goal is $125,000. The tournament serves as a major fundraiser 
for the San Jacinto College Foundation, which supports student excellence and 
achievement through scholarships.

The event takes place Wednesday, Nov. 2 at the Battleground Golf Course in Deer Park . 
A “See Our Stars Shine” gala reception is from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1 at the golf course. The evening will be highlighted by the announcement of the winner of a 2006 Harley-Davidson Fat-Boy motorcycle and other prices donated by Stubbs Harley-Davidson.

KILT radio personality Jon Granato is serving as emcee for the reception which honors Pettitte for his continued support of the Foundation as well as the six newest recipients 
of the Andy Pettitte Endowed Scholarship.

The Astros’ radio color commentator and former catcher, Alan Ashby, is emceeing lunch 
on Wednesday.

Pettitte is a Deer Park native who played baseball at San Jacinto College North before joining the New York Yankees organization. He is known as a “big game pitcher,” having 
appeared in five World Series with the Yankees, before joining the Astros in 2004.

As a result of his sponsorship of the golf tournament, Pettitte was selected as the Astros’ recipient of the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award. He was one of 30 Major League nominees for the Clement Award, which is presented annually to the Major League 
Baseball player who “combines outstanding skills on the baseball field with devoted work 
in the community.”

Golfers have a choice of a morning or afternoon round of golf. The format is a Florida scramble consisting of four-person teams, regardless of handicap. Team prizes for each 
flight include pro shop gift certificates for the first three places.

Golf prices ($175 individual, $700 team) include green fees, range balls, golf cart, two mulligans, monster drive opportunity, snack bag and golf goodie bag. Lunch, for golfers in both rounds, follows the morning session and dinner for second-round golfers is served immediately following play.

Several contribution levels are available for individuals, businesses and corporations. The various packages include amenities like golf playing spots, sign sponsorships, hole sponsorships and other areas of special recognition including VIP seating at the reception.

Sign sponsorships are available for $150 and exclusive hole sponsorships are available for $500.

Major corporate sponsors associated with this year’s golf tournament include Rohm & Haas Texas, Coca-Cola, Canteen Corporation, Lubrizol, Dow Chemical, Siemens Building Technologies, Bayshore Medical Center, Republic National Bank, Sulzer Hickham, Shell 
Federal Credit Union, Evergreen Industrial Cleaning Services, Carter Burgess, Boot Ranch Development, Outback Steakhouse, Law Office of Daniel J. Snooks and Sudie’s Catfish 
House.

More information on playing in the tournament, purchasing a ticket to win the Harley-Davidson Fat-Boy or to become a corporate sponsor is available by calling the San Jacinto College Foundation at (281) 998-6104.

San Jac South To Host Theatre Festival

The San Jacinto College South theatre department is hosting the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival (KC/ACTF) Wednesday, Oct. 26 through Saturday, Oct. 29 in the Proscenium Theatre, located inside the Marie Spence Flickinger Fine Arts Center, 13735 Beamer Road , Houston .

The South Campus theatre department will perform its production of Martin McDonagh’s “The Cripple Of Inishmann” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26.

Additional plays include Sam Houston State University ’s production of the Jessica Blank’s and Erik Jensen’s “The Exonerated” and Angelo State University ’s production of Anne Nelson’s “The Guys.” The plays are being performed at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, respectively.

Other plays scheduled for the festival include Texas A&M University ’s production of Joe Colarco’s “Shakespeare’s R & J” and Tarrant County College-Northwest Campus’ production of  Peter Shaffer’s “Equus.” The plays are scheduled for 11 a.m. and  7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28, respectively.

Texas State University students will perform Romulus Linney’s play “Going After Cacciato,” based on Tim O’Brien’s novel, at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29.

The purpose of the program is to identify and promote quality in college-level theatre production. Each production is eligible for a response by a regional KC/ACTF representative. Selected students and faculty are also invited to participate in KC/ACTF programs involving scholarships, internships, grants and awards for actors, playwrights, designers, stage managers and critics at the both the regional and national levels.

Productions are eligible for inclusion at the KC/ACTF regional festival and can be considered for an invitation to the KC/ACTF national festival at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington , D.C.  

Doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain and all tickets are $5.

Contact Liz Lacy, South Campus theatre administrative assistant, at (281) 922-3497 or e-mail liz.lacy@sjcd.edu for reservations and/or further information.

San Jac Central CE Hosting  
Open House Oct. 25

The San Jacinto College Central continuing education division is inviting the public out foran open house from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25 in the Interactive Learning Center (ILC)located at 8060 Spencer Highway , Pasadena .

The open house is designed to introduce and update the community about the many courses and programs available through the division.

College representatives will be on-hand to provide information about specific courses and tours will be conducted in the ILC.

For more information or to RSVP, call (713) 475-1353.

 
San Jac South Drama Presents
McDonagh’s ‘Cripple Of Inishmann’

The San Jacinto College South drama department is presenting Martin McDonagh’s “The Cripple Of Inishmann,” a strange comic tale about a sleepy Irish town that comes to life when it’s rumored that a Hollywood director has picked the location to film a movie.

One person, Cripple Billy, wants to be in the film more than anybody. His quest for stardom is the center of the play, which is told in the tradition of Irish storytelling.

Curtain time is at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19 through Saturday, Oct. 22 with a matinee performance scheduled at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23. Doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain.

Performances will be held in the Proscenium Theatre of the Marie Spence Flickinger Fine Arts Center, 13735 Beamer Road , Houston .

Adult tickets are $8 while seniors and students are $5. 

The play is presented through special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc. The production will be entered in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival which San Jac South drama department is hosting from Wednesday, Oct. 26 through Saturday, Oct. 29.

For reservations and further information, call (281) 922-3497 or e-mail liz.lacy@sjcd.edu.

 
Gill Is San Jac’s New Research And
Institutional Effectiveness Director

Dr. David Gill is San Jacinto College 's new director of research and institutional effectiveness.

Dr. David Gill is the new San Jacinto College director of research and institutional effectiveness.

Gill previously worked for the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board where he

served as the Evaluation & Division Web Services director under the Community and Technical Colleges Division and more recently as director of performance systems agency-wide. His duties there included performing policy/planning projects; federal and state reporting; institutional effectiveness reporting; and ad-hoc research. 

He also had the lead role in development of performance measures for the community college part of the higher education accountability system. 

Gill has also worked for the Texas Education Agency in research/evaluation, and in the private sector as corporate manager of training and organizational development. 

"I have always heard good things about San Jac," Gill said. "Everybody I have met here seems capable and friendly. It's a great college and I am happy to be a part of it." 

His doctorate is in career development and planning / research from Texas A & M University , where he also has a master's in psychology. 

Gill currently resides in Pasadena.

Former Students, Instructors Turn Out 
For San Jac Central Theatre Re-opening

Jaston Williams (right), co-author of the off-Broadway sensation “A Greater Tuna,” joined Terry Odgen (center) and San Jacinto College Central Drama Department Chair Dr. Jerry Ivins in front of a memorial for Jerry Powell, former drama instructor and one of the first faculty members at San Jacinto College Central. Powell died in 2003. 

The memorial was unveiled after a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the

re-opening of the newly-renovated Jerry Rollins Powell Arena Theatre in Pasadena.

Williams attended classes at the Central Campus in 1971 and was instructed by Powell. Odgen taught drama at the college in the 1990s. A host of students, both current and former, turned out for the event.

After the ceremony, drama students performed Agatha Christie’s “Mousetrap” to a sold-out audience. Several other productions are scheduled throughout the fall and spring at the Powell Theatre.

More information about the upcoming plays is available by calling (281) 476-1828.

Changes In Education Focus of Town 
Hall Meeting At San Jac North

Educational representatives gathered for a town hall meeting that focused on the changing tide of education at San Jacinto College North recently. 

Dr. Bill Lindemann (left), San Jac chancellor, gave his “Perfect Storm” PowerPoint presentation which covers how demographics have changed to the degree where employers are now requiring a higher educational level to perform jobs that, in the past, could be obtained with

a high school diploma or less. He also said about 75 percent of the local workforce will need an upgrade in their skills over the next five years. 

Other speakers pictured are (from left) Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Sylvia Garcia; Dr. Martha Ellis, Lee College president; Dr. Margaret Forde, Houston Community College Northeast president; and Dr. Richard Bailey, San Jac North vice president of instruction, who served as moderator. 

San Jac CE Offering On  
eBay Selling This Fall

Want to join the more than 430,000 people who are earning a full- and part-time living on eBay?

San Jacinto College Central continuing education division is providing a class that will teach participants tips and tricks for dealing with the popular Internet marketplace this fall.

The “eBay Selling Class” is a hands-on class held in a user friendly, state of the art computer lab. The class also teaches how to upload photos used for selling items. A special presentation on how to use a digital camera is a part of the class’ curriculum.

The course is available from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Sept. 27 and Oct. 4. A second set of classes is available from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 25 and Nov. 1 at San Jacinto College Central, 8060 Spencer Highway , Pasadena . The cost is $133.

Cynthia Ashby, a Houston-based education specialist trained by eBay University and San Jac, will provide instruction on the best practices for buying and selling on eBay. Ashby has been a member of eBay for five years and is ranked number one in a class of 245 education specialists. 

“Many people want to use eBay but are not sure where to begin,” Ashby said. “This class is a perfect opportunity for those who have never logged on to eBay to learn what it is all about and for veteran users who want to learn more.”

More than 135 million registered users have logged on to eBay to date. The site offers sellers more than 50,000 categories to market their goods such as cars, household goods, books, DVDs, CDs and a host of other items.

Continuing education credits can also be earned for taking this course along with some additional assignments. 

A free follow-up practice session is offered after the completion of each course.

To register, log on to Ashby’s Web site at http://2themanorborn.poweru.net. Also, she can reached via e-mail at beginebay@yahoo.com or sellonebay100@yahoo.com.

San Jac South Film Club’s  
Movie Wins At Festivals

San Jacinto College South student Bryce Galbraith (left) directs actor Max Healey while makeup artist Dana Kirby-Galbraith and boom operator Toro Vaun assist in the production of “Predator,” a short film made by students in the San Jac South Motion Picture Arts Society. The film has already won several awards at film festivals around the country and is expected to win more.

San Jacinto College South’s new film club, the Motion Picture Arts Society, is continuing to win awards for its short film, “Predator,” at multiple film festivals.

“Predator” won the Best Gothic Horror Award at the ApolloCon Film Festival and Best Suspense/Thriller at the Dusk Til Dawn Festival. It is also an official selection for the Gulf Coast Film & Video Festival and California ’s Shockerfest, where the movie’s leading actress was nominated for a Rising Star Award.

The movie was written, produced and edited by Molly Vernon, South campus drama professor. San Jac South students acted in the film, composed a score, worked the lighting and sound and other production aspects.

Students who worked on the film are Bryce Galbraith of Pasadena, director; Brandon Carrero of Friendswood, first assistant director; Abdel Soudan of Pasadena, crane operator; Kirk Greninger of Houston, sound; Jeff White of Houston; gaffer; Toro Vaun of Pearland, boom; Dana Kirby of Webster, makeup; Eva Vosta of League City, script supervisor; Jeremiah Kliesing of Houston, actor; Brent “Wayne” Bowers of Houston, boom; Jason Yu of Houston, boom; Shelly Lewellyn of Houston, production assistant; Ercilia Gascar of South Houston, production assistant; Chris Connor of Houston, production assistant; Steven A. Jones of Houston, composer; Levi Rosen of League City, set dresser; Honeymoon Aljabri of Houston, costumes; Jonathon Hipps of Houston, production assistant; and Lyman “Tony” Hall of Houston, actor.

“It is amazing we have students with this kind of talent,” Vernon said. “It is so nice when we are rewarded like this.”

Vernon also said that she is teaching more than just the production aspects of movie-making – she is teaching them how to deal with success.

“Success has made these students want to work harder,” she said. “But also I want them to know that if the film does not make it to the Sundance Festival, that doesn’t mean they failed. They are a success as it stands.”

More information about the South Campus Motion Picture Arts Society is available by calling (281) 922-3467.

Murder Mystery “Mousetrap”  
Happening At San Jac Central

The San Jacinto College Central department of theatre and film is presenting Agatha Christie’s murder mystery “Mousetrap” for a second week with a dinner included.

The play centers around a group of strangers stranded in a house during a snow storm – and one of the guests is a murderer.

Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. September 16 and 17, and at 2:30 p.m. on September 18. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. for performances on September 16 and 17 and at 1:30 p.m. September 18.

All performances will be held in the newly-renovated Powell Arena Theatre, located on the Central Campus, 8060 Spencer Highway, Pasadena.

A re-dedication ceremony for the Powell Arena Theatre will be held prior to the September 17 performance. The day’s events begin with a reunion of all former  San Jacinto  drama students at noon followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 6 p.m.  Everyone is invited to the ribbon-cutting ceremony. 

General admission is $15 for the dinner and play. For senior citizens, San Jac employees, Central Campus students with valid I.D. and children under 10 the cost is $13 for dinner and the play.  Dinner performances must be purchased at least two days in advance and require reservations. Credit card payments accepted by phone only. No reservations are needed for performance-only shows.

San Jac employees and Central Campus students with a valid I.D. are admitted free during the first weekend.

To make a reservation, or to find out information about the student reunion, call (281) 476-1828.

Grant Selected As
Rotarian Of The Year

Dr. Charles Grant, San Jacinto College North president, has been selected as Rotarian of the Year by the North Shore Rotary Club. 

The North Shore Rotary Club has selected Dr. Charles Grant, San Jacinto College North president, as Rotarian of the Year for 2005 at its annual installment banquet.

“It is a special honor to be selected as Rotarian of the Year by a premier club like the North Shore Rotary,” Grant said. “I am grateful beyond words.”

He was honored for his work with the club in 2004.

Currently, Grant serves as the District 5890 Rotaract chairman.

Grant was also named chairman of the Rotary International Worldwide Rotaract Committee for the 2005-2006 Rotary year. He was the only American chosen out of six on the committee.      

He has sponsored a Rotaract club for 21 years at San Jac North and has co-hosted the annual United States-Canada-Caribbean Conference.

Electronics Technology: 
Not Just A Man's World Anymore

Pam Sweeney (left) and Christy Leal work on a project in San Jacinto College ’s electronic technology program. Both are excited to be females learning a trade usually considered male-dominated. The two are examples that the electronics field is not limited to men only.

Since Benjamin Franklin first flew his kite during a storm a few hundred years ago, electricity has infiltrated almost every aspect of our lives.

Thanks to technological advances, a new frontier now exists in the area of

electronics, where men were trained to repair high-tech electrical devices. Today, women are also answering the call and San Jacinto College 's electronic technology program is doing its part to continue the trend. The program is taught at the Central and South campuses.

Pam Sweeney, a mother of three, and Christy Leal, a former audio technology student, are both enrolled in the Central Campus program. Both expressed excitement at the notion of being women in a mostly male-dominated field.

“I have always been a kind of a ‘Mrs. Fix-It’,” Sweeney said. “I know how to do things such as hang wall paper, paneling, work on TV's and anything else that might need repairs. I love the hands-on work.

Leal said her background in audio provided a solid foundation for electrical technology.

“Audio technology introduced me to the technical side of electronics,” Leal said. “I have always been a McGyver-type person, solving problems with makeshift tools. It was a challenge, but fascinating at the same time.”

Both feel women have a place in electronics.

“I think now days a woman can do just about anything if she puts her mind to it,” Sweeney said. “Life is an adventure and there is always something new to learn. If you are not afraid to try and are willing to work hard you can accomplish amazing things.”

Leal has heard both positive and negative reactions to her being in electronics.

“When I get negative reactions, I just think of how my family, friends, teachers, and co-workers who are behind me 100 percent,” she said. “I take with me what someone told me once – ‘In order to be considered equal, you have to be better.’”

Sweeney also faces the challenge of not being in school since the 1970s.

“At first it was like learning a foreign language,” she said. “But the instructors were a great help and it did not take long before I was feeling comfortable.”

In the program, students work on more than just televisions – they learn to fix high-end items such as medical equipment, radar detection systems, computers and microprocessors.

“Women have fine motor skills and great hand-eye coordination,” said Steve Rowland, San Jac electrical technology department chair. “They are certainly not limited in this field.”

Rowland also said that since computer technology has revolutionized daily life, it is natural for women to become involved.

“Computer technology simulates the real world using electronics,” he said. “Women have great insight on how electronics work and they understand the delicacy that goes into repairing computers. This is what people look for when they hire someone.”

San Jac’s electrical technology program offers students an associate of applied science degree, certificates of technology and occupational certificates.

More information about the Central Campus program is available by calling (281) 476-1827 or e-mailing stephen.rowland@sjcd.edu. An electronics program is also available at the South Campus and can be reached by calling (281) 484-1900, ext. 3241 or e-mailing carlton.simmank@sjcd.edu. 

Memory Expert Coming To
San Jac Central Sept. 13

Memory expert Ron White is coming to San Jacinto College Central for a presentation on how to improve one’s recall abilities Sept. 13.

Do you remember what you did five years ago today? What about three years? Can you remember what you did yesterday?

There is so much going on in our lives that it is hard to remember everything. Ron White, a memory expert, says he has a way of improving one’s memory and is coming to San

Jacinto College Central for a presentation on how to do it.

White’s visit will be at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13 in the Newton Student Center Ballroom, 8060 Spencer Highway , Pasadena .

During White’s presentation, he will show how to recall names, product knowledge, numbers, memorize books and speeches without notes all resulting in increased productivity with an improved memory.

White has given memory workshops to organizations such as the U.S. Army and Century 21. He broke a Guinness World Record by memorizing a 28 digit number in one minute and 15 seconds.  

He has written several books including “Memory In a Month,” “Write It on Your Heart,” “Selling Is Not Telling” and “How To Develop The Mind of Einstein.”

White’s visit is a part of the Discovery Lecture Series sponsored by the Central Campus Office of Student Life.

The event is free and open to the public.

More information is available by calling (281) 476-1877

San Jac Offering Financial  
Aid Survey On Web Site

Students who have gone through the financial aid process at San Jacinto College are encouraged to take part in an online survey being offered on the college’s Web site at www.sjcd.edu.

The information collected assists the college in determining how to better streamline financial aid services for students.

“It’s geared for finding out the truth,” said Mike Ramsey, San Jac financial aid services director. “If a student does not like something, then we need to know so we can change it. We want to make the financial aid process as user-friendly as possible.”

The survey consists of 32 questions total and takes about five minutes to complete. Some questions give students the option of leaving feedback.

To access the survey, click on the Quick Links option on www.sjcd.edu and then look under the Financial Aid link in the drop down menu.

The survey is courtesy of Chase Bank One, which is partnering with the San Jac financial aid office.

San Jac South Continuing Education
Offering Classes For Fall 2005

San Jacinto College South’s continuing education division is offering new classes for fall 2005 ranging from adult education, workforce development and leisure learning.

Classes start and run continuously from September through December.

In September, a wide range of classes are available for working professionals, unemployed/underemployed individuals or anyone looking for a fun class to take on their spare time.

Workforce development classes include How to Build a Computer (part of the Computer Technician Certificate program), Bank Teller Training, Pharmacy Technician Review, Portrait Photography (part of the Professional Photography Certificate program) and Small Engine Repair

GED Preparation, GED Review and GED Math classes also start in September.

The South Campus recognizes that computers are a large part of personal and professional lives. Continuing education is offering many computer classes this fall such as QuickBooks for Small Business, Computer Literacy, Microsoft Excel XP (2003) Level 1, Microsoft Word XP (2003) Level 1, Web Authoring and E-Commerce.

September leisure learning classes include Yoga, Tai Chi, Interior Decorating, CPR for Basic Life Support and Beautiful Beaded Jewelry Making. New water sports classes are available for individuals or families. Certified coaches teach affordable beginner classes in Kayaking, Sailing, Sculling, and Water Skiing.

In October, medical classes will be available including Electrocardiography (EKG), Medical Billing and Coding Professional, Dental Assisting Program and Certified Nurse Aide.

More information available by calling (281) 922-3440 or by logging on to www.sjcd.edu/ce, or by visiting 13735 Beamer Road, Suite 3101 Houston , TX 77089

San Jac 2005 Fall Semester
Registration Ongoing Until Aug. 24

Early online and telephone registration for San Jacinto College’s 2005 fall semester is ongoing 24 hours-a-day until Aug. 24.

Anyone registering after Aug. 24 must pay at the time of registration.

Students can register via the Web at www.sjcd.edu or by telephone at (281) 998-7600. Classes begin Monday, Aug. 29.

On-campus late registration with faculty advising is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25 for all students. Late Web and telephone registration will also be available that day until 7 p.m. A non-refundable fee of $25 will be charged to students who register during late registration.

The 2005 fall semester offers academic courses such as math, history, English and government. Other courses include computer information systems, engineering design graphics, culinary arts, cosmetology, music and criminal justice.

Some classes are available through distance learning, a program allowing students to take classes from their homes through the Internet, videotape, audiotape or videoconference delivery at San Jac campuses.

Students who have not attended in the past year should submit an application and complete necessary placement testing prior to telephone/web registration. All students who are required to take developmental courses must see a counselor prior to telephone/web registration. A registration worksheet can be found inside the San Jac class schedule.

The class schedule is available online at www.sjcd.edu and hard copies are available at all three campuses.

More information concerning the registration process is available by calling a San Jac campus: Central (281) 476-1501, 8060 Spencer Highway, Pasadena; South (281) 484-1900, 13735 Beamer Rd., Houston; or North (281) 458-4050, 5800 Uvalde Road, Houston.   

San Jac Central Drama Making Casting
Call to all Former Students 

If you were ever a theatre student in San Jacinto College Central’s drama department anytime from 1961 until the present, you have an invitation to attend a special ceremony re-dedicating the Jerry Powell Theatre at 6 p.m. Saturday, September 17 on the Central Campus, 8060 Spencer Highway , Pasadena .

“We need phone numbers, e-mail addresses and mailing addresses for a database of all former theatre students,” said Dr. Jerry Ivins, San Jac Central drama department chair. “This is a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime event and we want everyone to have a chance to participate.”

The theatre underwent some renovations recently and is re-opening for business with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. A tour of the facility will precede the event. 

The drama department will now be able to offer video/film acting and production classes with the addition of an 874-square-foot production studio with four XL2 cameras, clear-com communication, a separate lighting grid and a blue screen. A new control room and post-production room with three G5 editing bays were also added.

The 1,000-seat Slocomb Auditorium and the 175-seat Powell Arena Theatre have been re-designed to allow for conversion into back-up video/film studios. Students will now be able to direct stage productions, make their own videos and study video acting and production. 

A costume and storage room and a 2,958-square-foot scene shop complete with a second floor and tool room round out the drama department’s renovations. This gives San Jac’s technical students one of the largest scene shops in the Houston area.

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the drama department will present its production of Agatha Christie’s “Mousetrap,” an interactive thriller complete with a dinner provided by the college’s culinary arts department.

“This building has a lot of history to it,” Ivins said. “Drama was one of the first programs at the college, which in 1961 was held in a shoe store in Pasadena before they constructed the buildings.”

The theater was named after Jerry Rollins Powell, one of the first faculty members at San Jacinto College . He taught drama until he retired in 1985. Powell died in 2003.

Current and former drama students, or those who know someone who was, are encouraged to contact the department at (281) 476-1828.

San Jac Electrical Program Sparks
Interest For Adjudicated Teens

Pete Orosco, electrical technology instructor, shows how a Fluke digital multimeter works to Brad, a Harris County Youth Village student enrolled the Harris County Vocational Education program. Through the program, teens take electrical technology classes at San Jacinto College Central. The program is offered through Central’s continuing education division.

Finding ways of redirecting troubled teens

away from a life of crime and into a life full of promise is the premise of a special program in San Jacinto College Central’s electrical technology class.

Adjudicated teenagers ages 16 and up who are currently in the Harris County Youth Village program have found a new direction by enrolling in the Harris County Vocational Education (HCVE) program. Through the HCVE program, the teens can take classes in electrical technology at San Jac Central. The program is offered through Central’s continuing education division.  

“We are teaching them a technical discipline so they can be self-sufficient and not look to crime as a way of life,” said Pete Orosco, San Jac Central electrical technology instructor. “They learn to be responsible and to work with others as a team. They have responded very well to the program.”

Students in the program learn electrical calculations, basic electricity, national electrical codes, and both residential and commercial wiring. As part of the program, they also take the GED test.

The HCVE program lasts six months total with three to four months immersed in technical instruction at San Jac. Each student is given a certificate of completion after graduating from the program.

“With the certificate, they can start as an electrical apprentice and get on with their career,” said James Jones, HCVE program manager. “We are also hoping the students will be interested in continuing their education by enrolling in college classes.”

Brad, a student enrolled in the HCVE program, came into the program with no prior knowledge of electronics.

“The program definitely gives me hope,” Brad said. “Now I feel like I can do anything. It is a great program that helps you get on your feet and make something of yourself.”

Brad hopes to join an apprenticeship program and one day become a master electrician.

David, another HCVE student, did not have anything to look forward to until he joined the program.

“I now have the opportunity to focus on a career path,” David said. “This gives me a head start in college.”

Plans are currently being made to extend the program into San Jac Central’s automotive department.

More information about the HCVE program can be obtained by calling (281) 476-1835 or (281) 542-2006. 

Helping People Is Scholarship
Winner’s Area Of Expertise 

Megan Hanson is one of the recipients of the $1,000 Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation scholarship. Her dedication to her community was one of the main reasons she was chosen. She is also the recipient of the Laura Kate Smither Memorial Scholarship, given by the San Jacinto College Foundation to a home-schooled student every year.

Nicole Hanson likes helping people.

“I want to help our society build a solid foundation so it can grow stronger,” Hanson said. “I think it can be done and I am willing to

put forth an effort to do my part.”

Hanson’s desire to see society become a better place has garnished her some attention as she was chosen as a recipient of a $1,000 scholarship from the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation.

Hanson was inspired to make child identification kits after the death of Laura Smither, a home-schooled girl who died in 1997. She put together 1,000 kits, which contain fingerprinting material, swabs for DNA testing and containers for hair samples. It is her hope that the kits will help authorities find missing children faster.

“Laura was home-schooled and in Girl Scouts, like me,” Hanson said. “I wanted to do something that would help prevent a tragedy like this from happening again.”

Hanson was awarded the Laura Kate Smither Memorial Scholarship by the San Jac Foundation earlier this year. The scholarship carries a $2,000 award and is given annually to help further the education of a home school graduate.  

Hanson is also involved with her church’s dance ministry and has worked with the Houston Food Bank. She is also a recipient of the Presidential Freedom Scholarship and many other awards and accolades.

“We all have to help out,” she said. “Everybody has gifts and talents that can make a community better. That is what I have set out to do.”

The Coca-Cola Two-Year Colleges Scholarship Program is made possible with funding from the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation. The Whitehead Foundation provides grants in support of human services initiatives. Whitehead was one of the original bottlers of Coca-Cola. 

The Two-Year Colleges Scholarship Program complements the Foundation’s Coca-Cola Scholars Program, which awards more than $1.8 million annually in college scholarships to 250 outstanding high school seniors. The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is one of the most recognized and respected corporate-sponsored scholarships in America.

The Foundation was created in 1986 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Coca-Cola and to establish a legacy for the education of tomorrow’s leaders.

San Jac North CE
Receives $96,000 Grant

The San Jacinto College North continuing education division is the recipient of a $96,000 Harris County Community Development Block Grant. The grant provides funds for 103 North Channel residents to enroll in a computer job skills course. 

Pictured are (from left): Martha Sells, North Campus continuing education director; Dr. Athena Russell, North Campus continuing education dean; and Dr. Charles Grant, North Campus president.

The San Jacinto College North continuing education division has received a $96,000 Harris County Community Development Block Grant, which will provide computer job skills for 103 individuals in the North Channel area.

Martha Sells, San Jac North continuing education director, was the principle writer of the grant.

“This will result in 103 trained, employable citizens; 103 families with increased income capabilities; and 103 ambassadors for San Jacinto College,” said Dr. Athena Russell, North campus continuing education dean.

The grant funds will provide tuition, fees and books for those who enroll in the 128-hour Computer Job Skills program, offered by the North Campus continuing education division.

Program topics include keyboarding, Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Web navigation.

Participants will also learn to develop a resume, be given instructions on how to dress for success, conduct a job search and take part in mock interviews. The program also includes a tour of the North Campus job placement program.

More information about the program is available by calling (281) 459-7119.

San Jac North Hosting Family
Information Night July 21

High school graduates interested in taking the next step to further their careers are invited to attend Family Information Night from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 21 in the Monument Room, located inside the Slovacek Student Center at San Jacinto College North, 5800 Uvalde Road, Houston.

During the event, many college representatives will be on-hand providing information about the college’s admission process; financial aid; career counseling; student activities; and English As A Second Language advising.

Goody bags and door prizes will also be given away at the event.
Graduates are welcome to bring their family members and friends.
More information is available by calling (281) 459-7129.

Three San Jac Students Win
Columbia Memorial Scholarship

Daniel Flores and Megan Hanson are two of three winners of this year's Columbia Crew Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the Texas Space Grant Consortium (TSGC) and the Aviation and Space Foundation. The scholarship carries a $1,000 cash award.

Three San Jacinto College students have been chosen as recipients of the Columbia Crew Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the Texas Space Grant Consortium (TSGC) and the Aviation and Space Foundation.

Daniel Flores and Robert Smith, both of Pasadena, and Megan Hanson of Houston were recognized as high-achieving students by the TSGC for their interest in studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Robert Smith is one of three winners of this year's Columbia Crew Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the Texas Space Grant Consortium (TSGC) and the Aviation and Space Foundation. The scholarship carries a $1,000 cash award.

The scholarship carries a cash award of $1,000 and applies to the 2005-2006 academic year. The scholarships were established by the TSGC and the foundation in partnership with NASA in memory of the Space Shuttle Columbia 

astronauts.

“If an electrical engineer is needed to implement a radical new technology or modify existing tools to push the frontier, I am wiling to work diligently in order to accelerate the exploration process,” Flores said. “My passion lies in seeing what exists beyond our current understanding.”

Flores, a San Jac Central student, hopes to be assisting scientists and researchers in the aeronautical field as an electrical engineer within five years. His long term goal is to oversee the launching of multiple deep space probes.

Smith, also a Central Campus student, sees technology reaching the point where computers can be controlled with thoughts rather than with buttons or keyboards. This, Smith says, could lead to artificial intelligence performing experiments on planets that humans are unable to reach.

“There are so many ways computers can be used for future space research,” Smith said. “I want to be in the right position to be a part of this research.”

Smith plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of Houston/Clear Lake and a master’s degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He hopes to one day work in research and development with either Microsoft Corporation or NASA.

Two events occurred in Hanson’s life that directed her toward a career in space technology – meeting astronaut Jan Davis and the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster in February 2003.   

The former propelled her toward a career in space technology and the latter made her realize there had to be a way to improve safety on space shuttle flights.

“In the future, I envision myself re-designing the space shuttle and other rockets to make them more efficient and safer,” Hanson said. I can easily picture myself working on the innovation of a human Mars colony.”

Hanson is working on an idea that would add finlets to existing rockets fins, increasing its flight capability by 20 percent while using the same amount of fuel and weight. Also, she has ideas for a new steering system for the space shuttle.

Hanson graduated from San Jac South with an Associate of Arts in Math last fall. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering and a master’s degree in electrical engineering at Texas A & M University.     

The scholarship is funded through the sales of special license plates commemorating the lost Columbia astronauts. It is handled by the consortium and the Aviation and Space Foundation of Texas in partnership with NASA.

San Jac CE Offering eBay
Class Throughout July

eBay is one of the most popular buying and selling marketplaces available online and San Jacinto College Central's continuing education division is offering classes throughout July to help users utilize the Web site more effectively. Classes are available at the Central Campus and at the Pasadena Town Square Mall. Pictured are: Cynthia Ashby (standing), a Houston-based education specialist trained by eBay University and San Jac; John Stephens (far left); Blanca Fife; Symantha Ferrando; and Maricela Zambrano.

Want to learn how to buy and sell on eBay?

San Jacinto College Central continuing education division is providing a class that will 

teach participants tips and tricks for dealing with the popular Internet marketplace during the month of July. Cynthia Ashby, a Houston-based education specialist trained by eBay University and San Jac, will provide instruction on the best practices for buying and selling on eBay. Ashby has been a member of eBay for five years and is ranked number one in a class of 245 education specialists. 

“Many people want to use eBay but are not sure where to begin,” Ashby said. “This class is a perfect opportunity for those who have never logged on to eBay to learn what it is all about and for veteran users who want to learn more.”

The first class offered is “eBay for Beginners,” a hands-on course that teaches users how to search, bid and buy on eBay. The course is $83. Students should have basic knowledge of hot to operate a computer mouse before enrolling in this course.

The beginner’s course is being offered from 1 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 9 p.m. July 12 at the Central Campus, 8060 Spencer Highway, Pasadena. A morning course from 9 a.m. to noon is available July 14.

The course will also be offered from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday July 9 at the Pasadena Town Square Mall, 171 Pasadena Blvd, Pasadena.

“Selling on eBay” is an basic course which covers setting up a seller’s account and how to research, list and complete a sale. The cost is $133.

The selling course is available at the Central Campus from 9 a.m. to noon July 21 and 28; from 1 to 4 p.m. July 19 and 26; and from 6 to 9 pm. July 19 and 26. A morning session is available from 9 a.m. to noon, July 16 and 23 at the Pasadena Town Square Mall.

Nancy Parker, a former student in Ashby’s eBay class, says the class has been a tremendous help to her.

“I’m now selling a houseful of collectibles for a fraction of what it would cost to sell any other way,” Parker said. “I can sell everything from my home, whenever I want to,  with no pressure. I wish I had done this years ago.”

A free follow-up practice session is offered in open computer labs after the completion of each course. The labs contain user-friendly computers.

To register for the class, call (281) 476-1838 or log on to Ashby’s Web site at http://2themanorborn.poweru.net. Also, she can reached via e-mail at beginebay@yahoo.com or sellonebay100@yahoo.com.

San Jac South Kid's College

The Blueberry (from left, Catlin Laird of Friendswood Junior High), The Watermelon (Nadine Abrahim of Space Center Intermediate) and The Tree (Michelle Oliver of League City Elementary) performed in the recent Kid's College production of "Tarradiddle Tales" at San Jacinto College South. 

Kid's College is offered annually for students ages 7 to 17 and cover a wide range of educational, physical and social interests. The play was one of many activities offered during the event. Other activities include digital film making, 

computer animation, art explosion, Pee-Wee Picasso, Ooey Gooey Science and Web design classes. 

Kid's College is offered by San Jac South's continuing education division. More information is available by calling (281) 922-3440.

Karliss Davis (left) shows her clay-made pizza artwork with her mom, Mia, during Kid's College at San Jacinto College South. 

Kid's College is an annual event put on by the college's continuing education division during the summer and is offered to students ages 7 to 17. Activities for Kid's College include a children's play, digital film making, computer animation, art explosion, Pee-Wee Picasso, Ooey Gooey Science and Web design classes.

More information is available by calling (281) 922-3440.

San Jac South Drama Presents
Henley’s ‘Crimes of The Heart’

Three Mississippi sisters are the focus of San Jacinto College South drama's production of Beth Henley's "Crimes of the Heart." Pictured are (from left): Helen Papadacos of the South Belt area, who plays Meg Magrath; Andrea Cahoon of the South Belt area, who plays Lenny Magrath; and Liz Lacy of Pearland, who is playing Babe Botrelle.

Photo by Liz Lacy

The San Jacinto College South drama department is presenting a summer production of Beth Henley’s “Crimes of the Heart,” a warm-hearted, irreverent, zany and brilliantly imaginative play that combines humanity and humor as it examines the plight of three Mississippi sisters.

“It is a story of how people escape the past to seize the future -- but the telling is so true and touching and consistently hilarious that it will linger in the heart and mind long after the curtain has descended,” said Liz Lacy, San Jac South theatre assistant.

Sheleigh Carmichael, San Jac South drama department chair, is directing the play.

Cast members include Lacy, Chantel Balch-Oliver and Wayne Houle of Pearland; Andrea Cahoon, Kelly Jurek, Kyle Jurek, Helen Papadacos and Brian Wicker of the South Belt area;  Nathan Haworth and Randi Weintraub of Houston; Robert Tabor of South Houston; and Adi Teodoru of Clear Lake.

Curtain times for the show are 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 29 through Saturday, July 2 with a matinee performance scheduled at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 3. Doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain. All tickets are $5.

“Crimes of the Heart” is presented through special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc. This production is located in the Studio Theatre of the new Marie Flickinger Fine Arts Center, 13735 Beamer Road, Houston.

The production contains light smoking. There is no late seating available for this event.
For reservations and further information, call (281) 922-3497 or e-mail liz.lacy@sjcd.edu. 

Swearing In Ceremony

San Jac/SBDC Honors 
Small Business Owners

Owners of local small businesses who have been in operation for one, three, five and 10 or more years received recognition for their efforts during the San Jacinto College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Celebrating Milestones event, May 25.

The small business achievers gathered inside the Marie Spence Flickinger Fine Arts Center on the college’s South Campus to be thanked for their contributions to the community.

“They are the engine driving our economy,” said Judy Whitehurst, SBDC director. “The honor is a pat on the back for providing jobs and services to people in the community.”

Jan Lawler, Economic Alliance, Houston Port Region president/CEO, gave the opening remarks and recognition of dignitaries, chamber of commerce members and staff members.

Honorees for achieving one year in business were: Linda Cerisano, Jacob’s Well; Miguel Jaque, Everclean; Louis Karambis, Kalbridge Technology; Juana Schwarz, Fashion For Less; Franklin Tarazona, Ledtronix, LLC; Anner Montgomery, Just for Kids Learning Center; Greg Landwehr, E&G Amish Furniture; and Narmin Parpia, Potty Training Concepts.

The San Jacinto College District Small Business Development Center (SBDC) honored 26 local small businesses recently during its annual "Celebrating Milestones!" program. Businesses were honored and recognized for achieving one, three, five and 10 years or more of service. 

Pictured (left to right) are Judy Whitehurst, director, San Jacinto College SBDC and one year honorees Anner Montgomery, Just For 

Kids Learning Center, League City; Juana Schwartz, Fashions For Less, Clear Lake and Linda Cerisano, Jacob's Well in Pearland. The event was held at San Jacinto College South.

Honorees for achieving three years in business were: Tim Smith, The Label Smith; Lia Smith, Acqua Natura Microspa; Monica Perez, M.A.P. Forklift & Industrial Services; Kerrick and Adrienne Henny, Oscar and Denise Taylor, Cayenne’s; and Jean-Marc Mira, Home Instead Senior Care.

A total of 26 businesses were honored for one, three, five and 10 or more years of service recently at the annual San Jacinto College District Small Business Development Center (SBDC) "Celebrating Milestones!" program. 

Receiving awards in the "Three Years In Business" category included (left to right) Tim and Stephanie Smith, The Label Smith, Houston; 

Home Instead Senior Care, Jean-Marc Mira and Linda Lott, Houston; Cayenne's, Oscar and Denise Taylor, North Shore and M.A.P. Forklift and Industrial Services, Monica Perez, Pearland. Also pictured is Judy Whitehurst, Director of the San Jacinto College SBDC. The event was held at San Jacinto College South.

Honorees in achieving five years in business were: Sharon Lewis, Lisa Otto and Denise Copeland, Overall Designs LLC; Pat Smith, Meetings and Events Network; Margaret Applegate, Express Blind & Drapery Cleaning; Dr. Beth Dennard, Bright Futures Consulting; and Theresa McGowen, All About Interiors.

The San Jacinto College District Small Business Development Center (SBDC) recognized 26 area small business recently during its annual "Celebrating Milestones!" program at San Jacinto College South. 

SBDC Director Judy Whitehurst (far left) presented awards to four companies for  

"achieving five years in business," including (left to right) All About Interiors,Theresa McGowen, Deer Park; Bright Futures Consulting, Dr. Beth Dennard, Seabrook; Express Blind and Drapery Cleaning, Margaret Applegate and Meetings and Events Network, Pat and Martin Smith, Friendswood.

Honorees in achieving 10 or more years in business were: Vickie Hodges, Land of the Little People; Zuhair Hillail, Bushi-Ban International Clear Lake; Rupendra Radia, Radia Enterprises, Inc.; Peggy Willis, Innovations I; Mark and Glenna Short, Systech Solutions; Subir Kumar Saha, Engineering Projects, Inc; Kelly Idoux, Altered Images; and Michael and Andrew Shebay, PLLC.    

Local businesses took center stage recently at the annual "Celebrating Milestones!" event at San Jacinto College South. The program is a production of the San Jacinto College District Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and honored 26 area small businesses. 

Judy Whitehurst, SBDC director (far left), helped recognize the following companies for 

"achieving 10 or more years in business": (left to right) Innovations I, Peggy Willis, Pearland; Altered Images, Kelly Idoux, Friendswood; Bushi-Ban International, Zuhair Hillail, Clear Lake; Land of the Little People/Little People's Academy, Vickie Hodges, Pearland; Radia Enterprises, Rupendra Radia, Clear Lake and Systech Solutions, Glenna and Mark Short, North Shore.

Four members of the SBDC advisory board were also honored at the event. They are Terrie Morgan, Alvin Community College/Pearland Center program development coordinator; Karen Dickson, Pearland Economic Development Corporation (EDC); Donna Dulfer, owner of the Healthy Kitchen; and Hillail.

Cerisano, Taylor, Dennard and Idoux were honoree speakers, each one representing a different length of time owning a small business.

Corporate sponsors of the event were Daniel J. Snooks Law Office, Pearland EDC, Radia Enterprises, Inc. and Alvin Community College.

Making San Jac Her Business 
at Clear Lake Expo

Christie Zamora of Cameo Caregivers (second from left) is greeted by representatives from San Jacinto College South's continuing education division at the recent Clear Lake Business Expo, held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. 

San Jac was one of several booths set up at the expo, handing out brochures, promotional items and free gifts to hundreds of visitors. 

Also pictured are (from left): Jennifer Eyring, South Campus business and industry grants coordinator; Lilia Lozano, South Campus continuing education administrative assistant; Lelia Tippit, South Campus program director of business, technology and continuing education; and Symantha Ferrando, South Campus continuing education program coordinator.

San Jac Golf Course Scores
Hole-In-One With Locals

Daniel Black of Friendswood putts on hole number nine on the San Jacinto College Central golf course. Black said the biggest draw to the course is it's low price and well-kept layout.

The golf course on the campus of San Jacinto College Central isn’t as nationally known like Pebble Beach, Hilton Head or Ocean View. Then again, locals who frequent the campus greens don’t pay the fees associated with 

PGA-style facilities.

It costs $8 during the week to play the course ($6 for seniors) and that includes playing all day – not per round as other courses charge. During the weekend and holidays, the price is $10 for golfers ($8 for seniors) and that price is also for continuous all-day action.

Those costs are unbeatable, everyone agrees. Locals also like the fact there is no stringent dress code – shorts and a tank top are acceptable attire.

Since first opening in 1964, the course has become a popular spot for beginners and pros alike. It has nine-holes and many challenges that can give even the most experienced golfer a run for their money.

Brian Lawrence (left) and Richard Ramage, both of North Shore, frequent the San Jacinto College Central golf course, taking advantage of it's low price and excellent greens.

“All the holes are challenging,” said Terry Miller, San Jac golf pro shop manager. “A variety of players come out here – the course is good for all ages. It’s one of the best deals in town.”

Golfers can play the front nine holes, which measure 2,666 yards, or play 18 holes and 2,954 yards by using the back nine and a different tee box.

In 2001, the course was renovated, adding several new features which make it more challenging. These additions include sand bunkers on three holes, relocating fairways, enlarging greens to regulation size and building more tee boxes. The course renovations also included the redesign of the greens, which included adding more slopes and breaks to the putting surface to make it more challenging for golfers of all skill levels. About 350 yards were added to the course.

The course also includes a practice putting green.

Golfers agree that playing the course can be real a contest.  “It’s the best bang for your buck,” said Ken Smith of Pasadena, a regular at the course. “You can go to other courses and not find as excellent greens as there are here. I would recommend any golfer to come out and try a round at this course.”

Some holes contain water hazards, including a pond on hole number one. “The number five hole can make you or break you,” said Jerry Odle, who frequents the course.  “It has bushes on the left and water on the right. If the wind is blowing, then you really have a challenge.”

Odle collected his first of three holes-in-one at the San Jacinto College course. “Anybody who plays it will tell you it is one of the best places to play,” Odle said. “If anyone does not think so, then come out and play, especially on a windy day. I guarantee they will be a believer.”

The pro shop sells recycled golf balls, still in great condition, for a low price. Club rentals are also available.

More information about the golf course is available by calling (281) 476-1501 ext. 1880. 

San Jac North Geology 
Professor Wins $10,000

Dr. Eric Carson, San Jacinto College North geology professor, is this year's winner of the $10,000 Reverse Draw Raffle, awarded at the fifth annual “Evening of MONOPOLY®” event last week. 

Charlotte Jackson, who sold Carson the winning ticket, received $250. Carson and his wife will go on a shopping spree at 

Pottery Barn, Best Buy, Home Source and Foley’s. 

The event is sponsored by the San Jacinto College Foundation and raises money for student scholarships, new technology and Innovative Initiative grants, which are submitted by San Jac faculty and staff.

Godfrey Named San
Jac Outreach Director

Earl Godfrey is the new San Jacinto College Outreach Director. He began duties May 10.

San Jacinto College South employee Earl Godfrey has accepted the position of Outreach Director for the college.
“I am committed to making a difference in the pursuit of educational goals of individuals in Houston and the surrounding counties,” Godfrey said.

Godfrey served as a counselor/recruiter at the South Campus. As Outreach Director, he will oversee recruitment activities and be in

charge of all operations at the upcoming call center, which will be located at the North Campus. Also, he will plan the center’s schedule; develop a training manual, which will be available on the Web; and track the volume of calls. 

Areas supported by the call center include admissions, registration, campus financial aid offices, testing, advising, residency, switchboard, student life, distance learning and dual credit.

Godfrey lives in the North Channel area and is married with two daughters. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in higher education administration.

NOTE: Mr. Godfrey is a North Channel resident who has worked at the South Campus for the last few years. The Outreach Director position is a college position, not just for the North Campus.

San Jacinto Central Process Tech Department
Hosting Free 2005 Female Summer Institute

Chrissy Johnson (center) of Lubrizol taught Tammie Ho (right) and Candy Lee during a two-day seminar inside San Jacinto College Central's process technology lab. The seminar introduced female junior and senior high school students to a career in process technology. This year, the seminars are being offered again to 11th and 12th grade female high school students and adult females.

The San Jacinto College Central process technology department is offering 11^th and 12^th grade high school female students

and adult females seeking a job change the opportunity to explore a possible career in the process technology field.

Shell Oil is sponsoring two free institutes scheduled for two days each from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The first institute, scheduled on June 8 and 9, is for high school female students. The second institute, scheduled for June 13 and 14, is for adult females. The institutes will be held inside the Central Campus process technology lab, 8060 Spencer Highway, Pasadena.

The institutes are open to any 11^th and 12^th grade female high school student or female adult in the Houston area.

The institutes feature female guest speakers from companies such as Lubrizol, Lyondell, Syngenta, British Petroleum and Pasadena Refining, who will talk about their job experiences and the opportunities available in the process technology field. Also, the seminar includes a tour of the PPG chemical plant in La Porte.

“There is a large demand in the process technology field for female operators,” said Mike Speegle, Central Campus process technology department chair. “Currently, less than three percent of the operations personnel in the processing industry are female. Starting pay could be as high as $45,000 a year with excellent benefits.”

Class space is limited to 30 students per seminar. 
To register or to obtain more information, call (281) 476-1872 or e-mail mike.speegle@sjcd.edu. 

Sallee Honored At Texas
Connection Consortium

Dr. Fred Sallee, San Jacinto College Central registrar,  displays the plaque he received from Texas Connection Consortium members, who recognized him for his efforts with the Banner® software system.

Dr. Fred Sallee, San Jacinto College Central registrar, was recently honored for his efforts with Banner® software by the Texas Connection Consortium (TCC), an association of 37 state universities, colleges and community college districts that utilize SCT software products. 

“It is nice to be recognized by my peers,” Sallee said. “It was unexpected. I really appreciate the honor.” 

The consortium presented Sallee with a plaque at the annual conference for the leadership role he assumed in assisting colleges and universities to adapt Banner® software to meet Texas specific requirements. This includes the development of a state reporting module and Banner® processes to ensure compliance with the Texas Success Initiative.

Also, he helps make sure that change recommendations made to TCC accommodate the full range of business practices of the member schools. 

“There are a lot of new Texas schools using Banner®,” Sallee said. “We care about precise compliance with state rules and want to be sure we are all on the same page.”

Sallee is the San Jacinto College District representative to the TCC. In 2001, San Jac began implementing the Banner® software system. Since going live with the student module in 2003, the college has been able to provide a host of new student, employee, alumni services, including Web access. San Jac was one of the first Texas schools to implement the Banner® system.

Dallas TV Anchor Visits San Jac

Dallas television news anchor Jody Dean and Joyce Langenegger (second from right) were speakers at the recent Association of Educational Office Personnel Half-Day Seminar, held at San Jacinto College Central. 

Dean is an Emmy award-winning reporter with KTVT-TV in Dallas. Langenegger, former San Jac North associate dean for student success, is currently pursuing a doctoral 

degree in human development at Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, CA. She currently serves as an adjunct government professor at the North Campus. 

Dean shared some personal anecdotes with the audience and Langenegger talked about a workshop she had participated in that dealt with body, mind and spirit. Also, a silent auction was held at the seminar, netting $645 for the AEOP’s adopted family. 

Also pictured are the seminar’s committee co-chairs Patti Walling (left), San Jac research administrative assistant, and Linda Whitfield, North Campus dean of instruction administrative assistant.

Five Scholar’s Academy Students
Chosen For UH/Downtown Program

Five San Jacinto College North Scholars Academy students were chosen to participate in the University of Houston/Downtown’s 2005 Summer Undergraduate Research Program. Pictured are (back row, from left): Jennifer Trejo, Kyle Garmany, Lisa Weigle and Yessenia Patino. (Front) Lamar McWaine, Scholars Academy director. Not pictured is Connie Larsson.

Five students enrolled in San Jacinto College North’s Scholars Academy were chosen to participate in the University of Houston/Downtown’s 2005 Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP).

The students are Kyle Garmany, Connie Larsson, Jennifer Trejo and Lisa Weigle of Houston; and Yessenia Patino of Galena Park. The students can receive a stipend up to $1,400 per summer session.

The Scholars Academy is an academically competitive program that promotes scholarship and student success for undergraduate students majoring in science, engineering and mathematics.

SURP participants gain extensive undergraduate research experience from UHD College of Sciences and Technology faculty. The program helps students to improve their critical thinking and communication skills and provides hands-on research experience.

SURP is supported by the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Army Research Office and the U.S. Department of Education.

For more information, call Lamar McWaine, Scholars Academy director at (281) 458-4050 ext. 7220 or e-mail lamar.mcwaine@sjcd.edu.

Heads Up! San Jac South Cosmetology
Students Are Cut Above The Rest

Six San Jacinto College South cosmetology students were recently honored for their accomplishments at the Skills USA competition held in San Antonio in early April. Pictured are (from left): Megan McGavern; Kristen Jones; Jeni Poll; Krystal Thomas and Dana Belt, San Jac South cosmetology instructor. Winners not pictured are Amber West and Jessica Hawk.

PHOTO BY MATT HOLLIS

Six San Jacinto College South cosmetology students were recently honored for their accomplishments at the Skills USA competition held in San Antonio earlier this month.

Megan McGavern of Friendswood won first place for job interview/leadership skills; Kristen Jones of Friendswood won first place for customer service/leadership skills; Jeni Poll of Houston won first place for cosmetology technical skills in a six-hour contest; and Krystal Thomas of League City was elected as the Skills USA State Reporter. Also, Amber West of Santa Fe won third place in cosmetology technical skills and Jessica Hawk of Danbury won Best of Show for her display.

During a recent advisory board meeting, the girls were honored along with San Jacinto cosmetology instructor Dana Belt. “The students have shown tremendous growth and development toward their goals of success in the cosmetology industry by competing and winning at the state level,” Belt said. “The instructors and staff here at South Campus would like to congratulate all the winners and wish the best of luck to our national competitors.”

Thomas and Jones also placed in the competition's written cosmetology informational test and the written customer service technical test.

Jones, Poll and McGavern will compete at the national competition scheduled in June.

Skills USA is a student organization designed to teach students leadership skills and work ethics which are necessary to be successful in the cosmetology industry.

More information is available by calling (281) 922-3406 or logging on to www.sjcd.edu.

Informal Dance Concert
Happening At San Jac South

San Jacinto College South dancers Crystal Audis (left) and Crystal Reyes , both of Houston, rehearse a dance number. Students are choreographing their own work for the upcoming informal dance concert, scheduled at 7 p.m. Friday, May 6.

San Jacinto College South dance students are hosting an informal concert at 7 p.m. Friday, May 6 in the dance studio located inside the Marie Spence Flickinger Fine Arts Center, 13735 Beamer Road, Houston.

The event features dances by students in the dance composition class. The styles are predominantly modern and communicate points of view and ideas created by the students themselves.

All dances are produced and choreographed by the students.

Admission is $3. Proceeds will support dance scholarships for the 2005-2006 school year.

Call (281) 484-1900 ext. 3264 for more information.

Simpson Elected Vice
President OF AACRAO

Dr. Wanda Simpson, San Jacinto College North associate dean of enrollment services and registrar, is the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers new vice president. She will serve a three-year term.

Dr. Wanda Simpson, San Jacinto College North associate dean of enrollment services and registrar, was chosen as Vice President for Admissions & Enrollment Management

for the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) at its conference in New York earlier this month.

“I am honored to have been selected by my peers to serve this great organization and to represent San Jacinto College on a national level,” Simpson said.

Simpson will serve a three-year term and is responsible for the 2005 San Diego, 2006 Boston and 2007 Orlando AACRAO conferences.

As vice president, Simpson will serve as a board of director’s member, assisting the association in developing and monitoring strategic plans; the decision making process; and representing it to various outside publics. 

Also, she will guide the professional development of programs for enrollment management and retention; recruitment and marketing; transfer and articulation; school-college relations; and admissions policy and practice. 

Simpson has been involved with the association since 1988, serving on several committees for professional development; nominations and elections; and strategic enrollment management.

Simpson has been with the North Campus since January 1992. She has served on various committees and held several offices at the state and national levels including serving as the president of the Texas AACRAO in 2002 and as AACRAO program committee chair in 2001.

AACRAO is a nonprofit, voluntary, professional association of more than 9,000 higher education admissions and registration professionals who represent approximately 2,300 institutions in more than 35 countries.

San Jac PBL Receives $1,000 Donation from Cutco/Vector

Cutco/Vector recently donated $1,000 to the Central Campus Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) organization. PBL plans to use the donation to help fund a trip to the national competition in Orlando, FL. Nine of the PBL students qualified at the recent state conference at Lamar University. 

Cutco/Vector is a sales company that markets kitchen and household products, outdoor sporting goods and gardening accessories. 

Pictured are: (from left, back row) Daniel Stephens 

of Deer Park, PBL member; Brady Sand of Pasadena, PBL member; Sophia Kubin of Baytown, PBL president; Deborah Bowers of Houston, PBL member; and Donald Elliot of Pasadena, PBL historian. (Front row) Billie George, San Jac PBL advisor; Matt Storm, Cutco/Vector South Houston district manager; Ashley Peel, Cutco/Vector campus relations manager; and Veronica Salgado of Pasadena, PBL secretary.

Two San Jac South Students Win 
Outstanding Student Awards

Photo by Matt Hollis

Haley O'Neill (right) of Kemah and Toan Tran of Houston were honored as Outstanding Female and Male Students at the recent San Jacinto College South Annual Students Awards Ceremony. 

Outstanding students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, participated in extra-curricular activities and made significant contributions to the student body and the college.

Students from other academic and technical departments were also honored as well as student organizations. O'Neill and Tran were nominated by Dr. Greg Smith, San Jac South English professor. Also pictured is Dr. Linda Watkins, San Jac South president.

The San Jacinto College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) honored Danny Snooks, San Jacinto College attorney and member of the SBDC advisory board, for being a special advocate of the program. 

Three woman were also honored in July -- Lynn Goswick, Alvin Community College (ACC) director of media and owner of the Good Shepard Inn; Terrie Morgan, ACC professional development coordinator at the 

Pearland College Center; and Kathleen Williamson, University of Houston/Clear Lake lecturer in marketing. 

Also pictured is Judy Whitehurst (left), San Jac SBDC director, and Alice Mayo, SBDC administrative assistant.

San Jac South Student’s
Artwork Exhibited Online

Regina Hunter, a San Jacinto College South art student, recently had her artwork  -- "Baboon" and "The Odd Couple" -- chosen to be displayed as part of the 7th Annual Faces International Juried Online Art Exhibition.

You do not have to travel to a metropolitan museum to see Regina Hunter’s artwork – just simply go online.

Hunter, a San Jacinto College South art student, had two of her works – “The Odd

Couple” and “Baboon” -- selected for the 7th Annual Faces International Juried Online Art Exhibition.

The exhibit opened March 1 and can be viewed by logging on to www.upstreampeoplegallery.com. The exhibit will be on display until March 1, 2006. After one month, the artwork can be located under the “Exhibition Archive” link on the Web site.

Hunter’s work, “Baboon,” was inspired by a television program which dealt with how primates are closely related to humans.  “I wanted to capture how they felt in their eyes,” said Hunter.

“The Odd Couple” is a charcoal drawing based on a couple Hunter saw sitting on a sofa one day.

“They were like a salt and pepper shaker,” she said. "They just seemed to fit together even though they were vastly different from each other.”

Hunter’s paintings were selected from more than 350 artworks submitted for this year’s competition. She is an art major at the South Campus and also hopes to also be a scientist.

DeRocco Among Dignitaries Honoring SJC/Aerospace Academy Achievements

At a recent ceremony honoring the San Jacinto College/Aerospace Academy for Engineering and Teacher Education at Space Center Houston, Emily Stover DeRocco (second from right) of the U. S. Department of Labor presented a $1 million check to help train workers for the aerospace industry.

Also pictured are (from left): Dr. Marie Dalton, Aerospace Academy executive vice president; Dr. Bill Lindemann, San Jacinto College chancellor; General Jefferson Howell, Johnson Space Center director; Sandra Johnson, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership chair and Barrios Technology president; Congressman Tom DeLay (R-Sugar Land); and Frank Thompson, Houston-Galveston Area Council chairman.

DeRocco Among Dignitaries Honoring
SJC/Aerospace Academy Achievements

Emily Stover DeRocco of the U. S. Department of Labor paid a visit to Space Center Houston recently to present a $1 million grant to the San Jacinto College/Aerospace Academy for Engineering and Teacher Education.

DeRocco is the labor department’s employment and training administration assistant secretary. She joined Congressman Tom DeLay (R-Sugar Land) to specifically honor the Academy for its contributions to the surrounding community.

DeRocco presented the academy with a $1 million check in grant funds, part of a $3 million effort under the “President’s High Growth Job Training Initiative,” a strategic plan to prepare workers for jobs in fast growing and economically vital industries. The grant is distributed by the Houston-Galveston Area Council.

“The President's Commission on the Future of the United States Aerospace Industry made it clear that strengthening this industry's workforce is a necessary priority,” said DeRocco. “There is a growing demand for workers trained in aerospace technologies, both in the Houston area and throughout the country. Projects like the one we are highlighting today are preparing U.S. workers for aerospace industry careers.”

Other dignitaries on-hand for the ceremony included General Jefferson Howell, Johnson Space Center director; Dr. Bill Lindemann, San Jacinto College chancellor; Sandra Johnson, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership chair and Barrios Technology president; Dr. Marie Dalton, Aerospace Academy executive vice president; and Frank Thompson, Houston-Galveston Area Council chairman.

The funds will help train workers for the aerospace industry in the Houston area. Current aerospace workers can be trained for jobs with higher skill responsibilities and unemployed workers can be placed in targeted, high-demand occupations. “Aerospace industry growth and retirements over the next decade along with the advanced skills needed to fulfill the nation's new space vision will create opportunities for workers with the right skills,” said Dalton.

Other partners of the grant include the Gulf Coast Workforce Board, area One-Stop Career Centers, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership and 23 Houston-area aerospace employers, including NASA/Johnson Space Center.

Under the grant, a minimum of 625 current and potential aerospace workers will receive training in information technology and advanced manufacturing-related aerospace disciplines. The training will be delivered in person and online over the next 18 months. 

Also during the ceremony, 23 CEOs were given special recognition for their contributions.

More information is available by calling (281) 483-1137.

San Jac South Jazz Student Plays At 
Grammy-Related events in Los Angeles

San Jazz South trumpet player Stephen Forse (left) met jazz legend Horace Silver at the Grammy Salute to Jazz, an event held before the 47th Grammy Awards telecast earlier this month. 

Forse, a Brazoswood High School student, was one of 29 students chosen as part of the Gibson/Baldwin Jazz Ensembles program, which allowed musically talented students to perform in events related to the Grammy telecast. 

Forse took part in two rehearsals under musical directors Justin DiCioccio of the Manhattan School of Music and Dr. Ron McCurdy of the University of Southern California Thorton School of Music. He also performed at two renowned Los Angeles jazz clubs -- The Vic and Knitting Factory Club Hollywood -- and at the Grammy pre- and post-telecast celebrations. 

Forse is enrolled in San Jacinto College South's music classes through its continuing education division.

ACTOR TAKES ON HIS DREAM ROLE IN “DREAMCOAT”!

Photo by J. Pamela

Every actor has a dream role! A role in a play or musical that he holds up high as the one role he would love to portray.  But not every actor actually gets the chance to play his or her dream role.  For Musical Theatre triple-threat Chad-Alan Carr, it is the title role in the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, that is his dream role.  And this spring he has been given the chance to portray the leading role of Joseph, his dream role of a lifetime!

Chad-Alan Carr is no stranger to the stages in Harris and Galveston Counties, with over 100 productions to his name and being a favorite performer/director/choreographer at many local theatres and schools.  As a matter of fact, he is no stranger to over 200 different stages across the country, as he was a performer on the 50^th Anniversary Broadway National Tour of SINGIN IN THE RAIN last year, with which he toured 46 States plus Canada.  Now back home in the Bay Area, he is enjoying working at his hometown theatre the Bay Area Harbour Playhouse, where it all began.  But it will be in the large Slocumb Auditorium at San Jacinto College Central Campus that he will grace the stage in his dream role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s first musical, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT February 25—March 5, 2005. 

“It’s really a lot of fun”, says Carr, “I have been directing so much, that it has been a while since I have actually auditioned and landed a part in such a huge production.  It’s nice to be on the other side of the stage for a change.  The fact that it has been my dream role for so long is so great!”

This is actually the “ENCORE” production of JOSEPH… for Theatre San Jac.  They produced it last year to rave reviews, and they are reviving it for their audiences.  The singer who played the leading role last year was unavailable as he is a touring Christian pop singer, and so Carr had the opportunity to go in and audition for it.  The directors were very pleased with his big voice and boyish charm. 

"The score is very difficult," Carr says, "but I have been singing along with Donny Osmond on the CD for so long that the songs just come so natural to me now. The best part is the children in the cast. The entire cast is amazing; some of us are new and some are reviving roles from last year, but being a teacher myself, my favorite part is singing with the children in the show! They are truly beautiful."

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice wrote JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT originally for a Children’s Day School, and then after revivals on Broadway, it was Donny Osmond who really made it well known with the revised production now on video.  A beautiful family story with children of all ages in the cast, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT will play February 25—March 5, 2005 at San Jacinto College Central.  Tickets are sold at the door.  For more information call 281-542-2039.

SJC Buildings Win Prestigious Awards

Dr. Ron Rucker (left), San Jacinto College vice chancellor of administration, and Calvin Powitzky of Bay Architects were honored at the February San Jacinto College Board of Regents meeting for their work on the Interactive Learning Centers, which have won prestigious awards.

Many have paid compliments to San Jac’s Interactive Learning Centers (ILC) using 
adjectives such as “beautiful,” “spacious” 

and “cutting edge” -- now add “award-winning” to the growing list of positive descriptions.

“Just about everybody says something good about the buildings,” said Dr. Ron Rucker, San Jac vice chancellor of administration. “Faculty members cannot wait to teach in them, students are always using the facilities and college representatives from all over the country visit here, gathering ideas for their own buildings. They are worthy of every compliment and then some.”

American School and University Magazine awarded the Central ILC a Silver Citation for its design. The magazine has been a major resource in terms of constructing facilities for the past 75 years and is highly respected among K-12 and higher education administrators.

The Central ILC also won the magazine’s Value Award, Process of Planning Award, Innovation Award and Educational Appropriateness Award.

The North ILC won the 2004 Award For Project Excellence (APEX) 6 in the Education Under $10 Million category. This award was presented last August by the Houston Chapter Associated General Contractors at the 2004 APEX 6 Gala. This award recognizes quality in construction and how the facility enhances the educational experience. Other facilities that won the APEX Award include Reliant Stadium and St. Martin's Episcopal Church. The award is given every two years. Nominations for the award were submitted by Durotech Inc.

Bay Architects of Houston designed the buildings and Haworth Product provided the furniture.

The buildings came about as the result of a $91.4 million bond issue in 1999. The bond passed with an 82 percent voting rate. Each campus was equipped with an ILC, while two campuses received a new fine arts building. A new music building was constructed on the Central Campus. 

Boxing Champ Fights Way To Success At San Jac North

Dr. Charles Grant, San Jacinto College North president, engages in a playful spar with Stephen Martinez, a student at the college who recently won the North American Boxing Federation Welterweight Belt. Martinez is studying criminal justice at the college.

Preparing for a fight can be a grueling, yet rewarding, experience – just ask Stephen Martinez.

The day of a fight, Martinez wakes up at 5 a.m., runs five miles, attends classes at San Jacinto College North, trains for two-and-half hours and spars anywhere from six to 10 rounds. Then he’s ready to enter the ring.

“The fight is actually the easiest part of the whole procedure -- if you prepare yourself,” Martinez said.

Martinez’s hard work and preparation paid off recently when he scored a TKO against Grover Wiley in round four, winning the North American Boxing Federation Welterweight Belt at the Petroleum Club in Dallas. He is now one of the World Boxing Council’s top 10 welterweight boxers in the world.

“My focus was honed in on winning that fight,” Martinez said. “I anticipated what my opponent was going to do and reacted to that. I could not have won that fight, or any fight, if I had not given it 100 percent and trained hard. That is what it takes to win.”

Martinez has been fighting professionally since he was 18. He has 52 professional fights to his credit and won the National Junior Olympics in 1984 for boxing. He has fought many professional fighters including Vernon Forrest in April 1999.

Today, Martinez is concentrating on another fight of the academic kind. He is pursuing a criminal justice degree at San Jac North and plans to serve as a Harris County sheriff’s deputy.

“I enjoy the atmosphere at San Jac North,” he said. “I have learned a lot and the teachers are great. They train you for the real world just like my trainers prepare me for a fight. With this kind of preparation, you can come out a winner.”

Martinez is also married and has three daughters.    

San Jac Central Drama Students Receive $10,000

At a recent San Jacinto College Foundation Board meeting, several San Jac Central drama students were the recipients of the Foundation's Innovative Initiatives Award, totaling $10,000. 

Under the direction of Dr. Jerry Ivins, San Jac Central drama department chair, the department raised $5,000 on its own and the funds were matched by the Foundation. 

The students each received a portion of the funds, which will go toward paying for tuition, fees and books. Members of the foundation were thanked by the students and Richard Turner, San Jac Central drama professor. 

Pictured are (from left, front): Rachel Johnson, Melina Whitacre, Susana Ventura, Turner, Christopher Cruz, Michelle Trigg, Daniel Gray, Fred Johnson, Thomas Meche and Terrance Markel. (From left, back) John Carroll, Megan Mead, Miranda Feger, Anthony Gutierrez, Bryan Stinnett and Elliot Irish. Recipients not pictured are Jose Diaz, Danielle Docwra, Derek Gutierrez, Cody Hoefer, Jonathan Lally, Marissa Pena, John Thomas and Chris Warren.

San Jac North Art Department Presents Guevara's 'pluck'

"pluck" is an art exhibit featuring works by former San Jacinto College North student Caroline Guevara. The exhibit is on display at the Galeria del Norte located on the San Jac North campus. 

San Jacinto College North’s Galeria del Norte is presenting “pluck,” the work of Caroline Guevara, a former painting student at the college.

The exhibit is her first solo show and consists of selected work completed while working on her Associates of Art degree. Guevara is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting at the University of Houston.

An artist reception is from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10 in the gallery. Food and drink will be provided.

Galeria del Norte is located in the new fine arts center at San Jac North, 5800 Uvalde Street, Houston.  

Gallery hours are from 1 to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday or by appointment. Call (281) 458-4050 ext. 7285 for more information.

High Trek event at San Jac South

Using Steven Spielberg as an example, motivational speaker Gary Cohen spoke to Friendswood, Pearland and Clear Creek high school students about realizing their potential and getting to the next level during High Trek 2005, held at San Jacinto College South earlier this month. 

The event is sponsored by recruiters at the college and is geared toward motivating students to be successful in their lives. Students participated in interactive games and a scholarship drawing at the event. 

Also, motivational speaker Eric Gordon spoke to the students, sharing his thoughts on how to be successful.

New San Jac South Registrar Earns Respect

Tina Montgomery is the new San Jacinto College South registrar. She has more than 14 years experience as a higher education administrator at two- and four-year colleges in California and New York.

Tina Montgomery has a vision

As San Jacinto College South registrar, Montgomery wants to earn the respect of her colleagues. “I want to create a strong balance between customer service and the application of technology in attracting and enrolling San Jac students,” she said.

Montgomery began as the college’s registrar in December 2004. She has served as a higher education administrator for 14 years at two- and four-year colleges in California and New York. She recently served as dean of graduate admissions at Hofstra University, a private liberal arts college on Long Island, NY.

As registrar, Montgomery has administrative responsibility for admissions, registration, records and international student admissions. Also, she reports to the vice president of student services; serves as a resource to students, faculty and staff; and works with her counterparts at the Central and North campuses and district administrators.

“In my first few weeks as registrar, I have experienced a strong level of team work and team spirit, especially during the weeks of registration,” Montgomery said. “I feel privileged to be part of the San Jac South College family.”

Montgomery also noted the leadership skills of Dr. Linda Watkins, San Jac South president.  “It’s phenomenal,” she said. “I have never seen faculty, administrators and staff work so hard and so well together on behalf of students.”

Montgomery has one 13-year-old son, Wesley, and lives in Cypress.

Maynard Ferguson Performing At San Jacinto South Jan. 29

Maynard Ferguson is performing at San Jacinto College South Saturday, Jan. 29. Ferguson is best known for his rendition of "Gonna Fly Now," the theme to the "Rocky" movies.

The San Jazz Ensemble is hosting a performance by Maynard Ferguson and his Big Bop Nouveau Band at 7 p.m. Saturday Jan. 29 in the Marie Spence Flickinger Fine Arts Center, located at San Jacinto College South, 13735 Beamer Road.

Ferguson is best known for his rendition of “Gonna Fly Now,” the theme to the “Rocky” movies.

“This is a great opportunity for the whole family to come out and enjoy some great music from a real professional,” said Bob Odneal, San Jac South music department chair. “We have hosted Maynard many times in the past and the audience are always blown away.”

Tickets range from $25 to $100. A special VIP package is available for $100, which includes seating in the center front four rows, coffee and dessert following the concert ands the opportunity to meet Ferguson.

VIP tickets are limited and all tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis. Seating is limited.

To purchase tickets contact Liz Lacy at the box office at (281) 922-3497 or email at liz.lacy@sjcd.edu. 

Photo by Keith Dabney 

Doc Severinsen (left), who for 30 years conducted the Tonight Show's orchestra during the Johnny Carson era, paid a visit on Jan. 8 to San Jacinto College South for Destino Days, an event sponsored by the South Campus music department. Bob Odneal (right), South Campus music department chair, has known Severinsen since 1967.

Destino Days was an invitation only event where Houston's leading professional trumpet players could meet Severinsen and play his famous trumpet, the Destino. Severinsen was in town performing with the Houston Symphony at Jones Hall. For more information about Doc Severinsen or the Destino custom trumpet log on to www.docseverinsen.com.

San Jacinto College Association of Educational Office Personnel
 

Photo by Jackie Welch

San Jacinto College's Association of Educational Office Personnel (AEOP) organization recently decorated a Christmas tree with Disney-themed ornaments and won the hearts of 153 first grade students from Pomeroy Elementary. 

The students decided that AEOP's tree was the best of the 40 non-profit trees on display at Pasadena City Hall and awarded it the Children's Choice Award. 

Rena Manthei, AEOP member, is pictured with the award next to the tree while Mickey Mouse (tree topper) looks on.

Photo by Jackie Welch

Rena Manthei, San Jacinto College's Association of Educational Office Personnel (A