The Communicator - 10/26/09

In this issue, you’ll read:
Tuition Taking a Toll…
Cultural Arts Series Shines Spotlight on Russian Folk Music…
Annual Halloween Carnival set for Oct. 30…
Active Kids - Saturday Edition Underway…
Colleague User Interface 4.0 Demonstrations…
OCCC Wellness Program Receives Donation…
This Week’s Training Sessions…
Get to Know…

Tuition Taking a Toll
According to the College Board, many college institutions across the U.S. are facing their most challenging economic climate in generations. Because state appropriations to public colleges declined nearly $4 billion in 2008-2009 from the previous year, numerous schools have apologetically increased tuition. On average, the climb was an estimated 6.5 percent at four-year public colleges.

Holding steady, OCCC, among many other Oklahoma colleges and universities, has not raised tuition. Other states that have “held the line” and froze tuition include Maryland and Missouri, while reports show that students in states such as California, Florida and New York have seen double-digit tuition increases.
“OCCC believes everyone deserves an equal opportunity for a college education,” Dr. Sechrist said. “During these tough economic times, it is increasingly difficult for students to afford a solid education. The last thing we want is to weaken their opportunities for a college degree.”

The news reported by the College Board isn’t all bad. The estimated net price - what the average student actually pays after financial aid is taken into account - is still much lower than the list price, at about $1,620 at public four-year colleges. Even though figures are up slightly from last year, they are still lower than five years ago.

Worst hit colleges and universities are in California, whose giant public university and community college systems educate about one in eight full-time college students in the U.S. Facing unprecedented state funding cuts, public colleges there have boosted fees, raised class sizes and furloughed faculty, but still can’t balance their books.

The College Board report also offers a glimpse of what has become a significant expansion of the federal government’s role in helping students pay for college.

In 2008-09, 65 percent of the $180 billion spent on student aid came via the federal government in the form of grants, loans and work-study programs, up from 58 percent the year before. Overall, the report estimated, federal grant aid rose almost 11 percent last year. That trend will probably continue because the maximum Pell Grant rose by more than $600 this year to $5,350.

Cultural Arts Series Shines Spotlight on Russian Folk Music
The Cultural Arts Series spotlight is shining on the Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival. The feature presentation is set for this Tuesday, Oct. 27 in the Bruce Owen Theater at 7 p.m.

A part of this year’s Cultural Tour de Force theme, the Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival is one of Russia’s most celebrated dance and music groups. Led by award-winning singer, Nikolai Massenkoff, the ensemble of musicians and dancers will bring the heart of Russian culture to life on stage. Internationally acclaimed, this is Russian culture at its finest.

Save the date of Nov. 10 as Rave On! Buddy Holly Revue graces the OCCC stage. Also, Dec. 1 has been set aside for the unique vocal harmonies and unbeatable accompaniments of The Four Freshman.

Season tickets are still available. For more information on season tickets or individual performance tickets, call the Cultural Programs office at 7576, or visit www.occc.edu/cas.

Special thanks to the following for support of the 2009-2010 Cultural Art Series: Oklahoma Arts Council, Mid-America Arts Alliance, National Endowment for the Arts, Classical Radio KCSC 90.1, Kirkpatrick Family Fun and the Ad Astra Foundation.

Annual Halloween Carnival set for Oct. 30
Ghosts and goblins and ghouls - oh my! Be safe this Halloween and bring your children and friends to the annual OCCC Halloween Carnival, Friday, Oct. 30 from 6 to 8 p.m.

A student life tradition on campus, the carnical will feature booths and games sponsored by various student clubs and organizations. The event is for children in grades kindergarten through fifth. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the cost is $1 per child.

The carnival will be located in the general dining area in the College Union. Costumes are highly encouraged, so dress up your little goblin and join in on the Halloween fun.

For more information or to volunteer, please call ext. 7523.

Active Kids - Saturday Edition Underway
Designed with kids in mind, the Active Kids - Saturday Edition in the OCCC Recreation and Fitness department is a great way for kids to stay fit and have fun during the winter months. Set for each Saturday through Nov. 21, the recreational classes are intended for children ages three to ten. Take a look at the classes below and sign your child up today.

Tiny Tot Tumbling
Have a child with energy to burn? This class is the perfect choice. Students will learn age appropriate tumbling skills, beginning with somersaults and moving on to walkovers and handsprings. Boys and girls, ages three to five are welcome. Class time is from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. Class fee is $45.

Fit Kids
This class incorporates an understanding of what being “fit” really means. Heart rate, walking for fitness and strength training are all included in this class filled with variety. Guys and gals, ages six to ten will enjoy this class from 9 to 10 a.m. Class fee is $40.

Yoga/Pilates
This class focuses on stretching and lengthening muscles. Kids often are so active that they tend to skip the warm up and cool down parts of fitness, which can lead to injuries later in life. This is also a great class for the child who isn’t as athletic as some, but enjoys being fit. The age group for this class is six to ten, and the class time is set for 11 to 11:45 a.m. Class fee is $30.

For more information on Active Kids - Saturday Edition, please contact the OCCC Recreation and Fitness department (405) 682-7860, or link to http://www.occc.edu/RF/ActiveKidsFitness.html.

Colleague User Interface 4.0 Demonstrations
Come see and learn how User Interface 4.0 (UI 4.0) transforms the Colleague (Datatel) user experience on Friday, Oct. 30 from 1:30 to 2:30 in the Regents Boardroom. With UI 4.0’s powerful interface, you have new ways to work and streamline your processes. The new interface incorporates Microsoft Silverlight technology, and brings a new level of functionality to Colleague - context. By having a person in context, you can easily move from one form to another to complete tasks.

A few of the enhancements provided by this UI release are the ability to:
•    see staff and student pictures from within Colleague’s new person context card
•    work with several people across forms easily
•    save forms, as well as people, as “Favorites”
•    forget all those mnemonics and just remember what the form does - search on a keyword or description of what the form does
•    search on multiple fields, across Colleague applications
•    use Yahoo’s mapping tools to see geographic trends

OCCC Wellness Program Receives Donation
Benefitting the entire college community, improved signage will soon be visible to all who utilize the indoor walking trails on camps. Thanks to Wal Mart community grants, the OCCC Wellness Taskforce, led by Lisa Vaughan, Rhonda Simpson and Roxy Butler, recently received a $1,000 grant for use in the program.

“The walking trail is frequently used by faculty, staff, students and community members, and better trail indicators will greatly benefit each of us exercising,” said Lisa Vaughan. “We’re thankful to Wal Mart for the donation and the benefits this will allow our fitness members.” she added.

This Week’s Training Sessions
Take advantage of professional development opportunities provided through the college’s training programs.
Web Time Entry (supervisor)
Course Number: LGIS-1016-061
Date: Monday, October 26
Times: 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
Location: LB - 101
Presenter: Allen, Johnny

Benefits of Healthy Eating
Course Number: ENHS-1038-002
Date: Monday, October 26
Times: 12:00 PM-1:00 PM
Location: CU - CU1
Presenter: Vaughan, Lisa

How to Connect Students to Counseling
Course Number: CSMG 1011
Date: Thursday, October 29
Location: Science Engineering and Math Center - 2E2
Presenter: Jenna Howard

Using Visual LISP
Course Number: TEC-1051-002
Date: Friday, October 30
Times: 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
Location: LB - 201
Presenter: Helton, John

GET TO KNOW…
Michael Burchfield

Position:
Marketing and PR Assistant

Department:
Marketing and PR

How long have you worked for OCCC:
4 weeks

Previous Jobs:
Norman Regional Health

Family:
Spouse: Lisa; Children: Mariah - 14, Jason - 12, April - 10, Kirabeth - 8

Pets:
Winnidog and Titto - Mutt

Hobbies:
Spending time with family, fishing and hunting

Famous Favorite Saying/Quote:
“It’s all good”

Happy Birthday
Gail Malmstrom - 10/26
Kim White - 10/26
Marion O Dell - 10/26
Jorge Lopez - 10/27
Paul Buckelew - 10/27
Peggy Jordan - 10/27
Cathy Bowman - 10/28
Morgan Felty - 10/28
Anna Webb - 10/29
Francine West - 10/29
Morgan Jones - 10/29
Jaquie Sherrard - 10/30
Robert Mahoney - 10/30
Charlie Neatherlin - 10/31
Jackie Maxwell - 11/1
Nora York - 11/1
Gary Phillips - 11/2
Alexandra Sitzman - 11/3
Jennifer Cochrane - 11/3
Lauren McElroy-Walls - 11/3

The Communicator - 10/19/09

In this issue, you’ll read:
Long Lines for H1N1 Vaccine…
Annual Alumni Hall of Fame Set for Oct. 29…
Saving Grace Executive Producer Helps Fundraising Efforts…
This Week’s Training Sessions…
Get To Know…
Happy Birthday…

Long Lines for H1N1 Vaccine
Dozens of volunteers and OCCC employees turned out to help the Oklahoma City-County Health Department (OCCHD) with the first H1N1 immunization clinic in Oklahoma County last Thursday, vaccinating an estimated 4,000 individuals including children, men and women with chronic illness and other members of the community. Children and pregnant women were given priority.
Individuals first arrived on campus at 5:30 a.m. for the 8:30 a.m. check-in, with the first H1N1 vaccine administered at 9 a.m.

Two-thousand people deep, the line for the vaccine trailed from the gymnasium, out and around the book store near the coffee shop area, back to the information desk, out the front doors of the main building and all the way around the Keith Leftwich Memorial Library. The average wait-time for the vaccine was two and a half hours.

The injectable and the nasal spray vaccine were both provided at the clinic; however, the injectable version was preferred by most as the nasal vaccine carries a hint of the live virus. Supplies of the inject-able type lasted until just before noon when another round of 1000 doses was delivered to the college.
With almost 200 people still in line, the clinic ended at 6:30 pm.

For information on future immunization clinics, please call (405) 419-4144 or go the OCCHD website at: http://www.cchdoc.com

Annual Alumni Hall of Fame Set for Oct. 29
Seven OCCC alumni will be honored during the annual Alumni Hall of Fame ceremonies in the Visual and Performing Arts Center’s Film and Video Production Studio on Thursday, Oct. 29. These outstanding honorees will be added to an already distinguished group of men and women.

The Alumni Hall of Fame is a prestigious annual award that recognizes a select group of OCCC graduates, showcasing their career and civic accomplishments over the years.

OCCC will also present First Lady, Kim Henry, and Regent John Massey with the Honorary Alumni Hall of Fame award. The First Lady is currently the Executive Director of the Sarkeys Foundation in Norman, while Massey serves as a Regent of the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and Chairman of the Board for First United Bank in Durant. Both are being recognized for their leadership and contribution to OCCC and the state of Oklahoma.

“OCCC alumni make outstanding contributions to their communities and to their professions,” said Dr. Paul Sechrist. “We are proud of what each has accomplished since leaving OCCC, and are excited to have them back on campus to officially recognize them.”

The 2009 Alumni Hall of Fame inductees include:
•    Christopher Burris, Instructor of Computer Aided Drafting and Design, Metro Technology Center
•    Teresa Davis, DDS, Dental Wellness Center
•    Christina Makarim, DVM, Cedar Creek Veterinary Clinic
•    Eddie Manley, Education Training Coordinator for the Emergency Medical Services Division Oklahoma State Department of Health
•    Shannon Nance, President, Oklahoma Heritage Association and Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum
•    Mary Blankenship Pointer, Senior Vice President, Business Development, UMB Bank
•    Dee Porter, Chief Operating Officer, Texas State Department of Health

For ticket information, please call the OCCC Foundation at (405) 682-7591.

Saving Grace Executive Producer Helps Fundraising Efforts
Prior to the Alumni Hall of Fame celebration, a special reception will be held in support of the honorees and the soon-to-be-built Performing Arts Theater at OCCC. Oklahoma City native and creator/producer of TNT’s Saving Grace, Nancy Miller, will be on hand. Hosted by OCCC and the Women of the South, the event is set for Thursday, Oct. 29 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Guests to the reception can enjoy candid conversations with Miller and get her thoughts on supporting the arts in the Oklahoma City community and the planned Performing Arts Theater on campus.

Starring Academy Award-winner Holly Hunter and set in Oklahoma City, the crime drama Saving Grace premiered July 23, 2007 on cable station TNT. Hunter played OKC detective Grace Hanadarko, and the Oklahoma City metro made occasional appearances in the show.

Miller attended Bishop McGuinness High School and is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma. Miller chose Oklahoma City as the location of the show because she felt like the show, which centers on spiritual and religious themes, “needed a Bible Belt setting.”

Previous episodes of the show air on Monday nights at 9 p.m. (CST) on TNT.

For more information regarding the special reception, please call Jennifer Harrison at (405) 682-7591.

This Week’s Training Sessions
Take advantage of professional development opportunities provided through the college’s training programs.
Defensive Driving Course
Course Number: ENHS-1007
Date: Tuesday, October 20
Location: John Massey Center
Presenter: Lisa Vaughan

Meeting the Needs of Millennial Learners through ANGEL
Course Number: TEC-1008-001
Date: Friday, October 23
Location: CU - CU1
Presenter: Glenne’ Whisenhunt

Web Time Entry (employee)
Course Number: LGIS-1016-051
Date: Friday, October 23
Times: 9:00 AM-10:00 AM
Location: LB - 101
Presenter: Allen, Johnny F

Lunch N Learn
Course Number: ENHS-1038-001 Date: Friday, October 23
Times: 12:00 PM-1:00 PM
Location: CU - CU2
Presenter: Vaughan, Lisa S

Web Time Entry (supervisor)
Course Number: LGIS-1016-061
Date: Monday, October 26
Times: 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
Location: LB - 101
Presenter: Allen, Johnny F

Benefits of Healthy Eating
Course Number: ENHS-1038-002
Date: Monday, October 26
Times: 12:00 PM-1:00 PM
Location: CU - CU1
Presenter: Vaughan, Lisa S

GET TO KNOW…

Rita Manning

Position:
Recreation and Fitness Assistant

Department:
Recreation and Fitness

How long have you worked for OCCC:
30 years

Family:
Richard - Spouse; Hunter, 12 - Grandson; Skyler, 6 - Grandson; Madison, 5 - Granddaughter

Hobbies:
Home Improvement

Happy Birthday
Jan Hein - 10/18
Kyron Smoot - 10/18
Darin Behara - 10/19
April Jackson - 10/20
Nancy Abbas - 10/20
Bertha Wise - 10/21
Mary McCoy - 10/21
Terry Kilpatrick - 10/21
Bianca Mejia-Lagunes - 10/22
George Maxwell - 10/22
Lea Bessinger - 10/23

The Communicator - 10/12/09

In this issue, you’ll read:
National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week…
United Way Campaign Underway…
Caring Van to Make Stop on Campus…
Shoot Hoops with OCCC Youth Basketball League…
Stay in Shape OCCC…
Earn Your Doctorate…
This Week’s Training Sessions…
Get to Know…
New Employees/Promotions…
Happy Birthday…

National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week
When we shop for groceries, we read food labels. When we travel, we read street signs. When we eat at a restaurant, we read the menu. Without literacy, life takes a frustrating turn. The ability to read and write is a necessity.

Studies show that twenty percent of all adults are not literate, two-thirds are women.
OCCC and the National Coalition for Literacy (NCL) invite you to celebrate National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, Oct. 19 - 23. This Congressional declaration is the culmination of literacy advocacy and outreach resulting in 26 co-signers in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In celebration of the week, OCCC will host special orientation sessions for adults interested in Adult Basic Education classes designed to help adults become lifelong learners. Many of these students dropped out of school at an early age. Many are this country’s newest immigrants and want desperately to learn the English language. These classes will help build literacy skills and meet personal and educational goals, whether it’s earning their GED, finding a better paying job or merely communicating with their child’s teacher.
Free to the public, the orientation sessions for English language learners are set from 9 a.m. to noon on Mondays and Wednesdays, while the Adult Basic Education orientations will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. All orientations will be held on the fourth floor of the OCCC Keith Leftwich Memorial Library, room 407.

A book drive set for Oct. 12-16, has also been scheduled to collect new and used books for our students and their children. Those wishing to participate can drop off their books on the fourth floor of the OCCC Keith Leftwich Memorial Library in the Adult Learning Center (ALC).

The OCCC ALC helps adults develop their knowledge and potential, perform more effectively in the workplace, achieve personal life goals and contribute to the educational development of their children. For more information about National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, the events scheduled on campus and the OCCC ALC, please call ext. 7873.

United Way Campaign Underway
The annual OCCC United Way campaign is officially in full swing. Continually supporting the south Oklahoma City community and the agencies that serve central Oklahoma, OCCC encourages your contribution that helps make Oklahoma a great state and Oklahoma City a remarkable place to live. Contributions help provide critical services and support for Oklahomans in need.

The 2009 OCCC United Way campaign includes several ways to get involved and give back:

Blue Jeans Mondays: October 12, 19, 26 and November 2
OCCC faculty and staff may purchase United Way stickers for $10 that will enable them to wear their best pair of blue jeans every Monday in Oct. and the first Monday in Nov. Wearing your jeans and United Way stickers allows you to show support for the United Way throughout OCCC’s campaign. Stickers may be purchased from TRIO’s Erinn Guzik at ext. 7240, or Corporate Learning’s Doralicia Sandoval at ext. 7858.

Pledge Card Drive
The United Way pledge cards have been distributed to all OCCC faculty and staff. Pledge cards allow employees to make one-time donations, set-up recurring donations, or payroll deduction donations. Every little bit helps, so please complete and return your pledge card soon to Katie Treadwell with Student Life at ext. 7683. Stay tuned for exciting prizes and incentives for early pledge card returns. You could be a winner!

Caring Van to Make Stop on Campus
The Caring Van will make a stop in the OCCC Child Development Center parking lot Thursday, Oct. 15 from 2-4 p.m., providing free immunizations for children. This is a service funded by the Oklahoma Caring Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization administered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma.
The Caring Van is open to the public and a parent or guardian must be present to complete the required paperwork. Also, parents must remember to have your child’s current shot record on hand. For more information or questions, please call the OCCC Child Development Center and Lab School at ext. 7561.

Shoot Hoops with OCCC Youth Basketball League
Shoot for two this fall and winter with the OCCC Youth Basketball League’s boys and girls divisions. League registration is going on now through December 4, and the season officially starts Dec.12.

Divided into four teams, boys and girls will be playing in their respective grade level - third, fourth, fifth or sixth grade. Eager basketball competitors, ages nine through 12, are encouraged to sign up, get ready to shoot for two, and begin practicing the full court press.

Saturdays are game days, and each team will play between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Team practices will be determined by the team’s respective coach.

A pre-season coaches meeting is set for Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. All coaches are to meet on the OCCC campus in the Recreation and Fitness gymnasium to discuss this year’s league, games and practice times.

Cost per player is $35, and a free pre-season tournament for registered teams only is set for Dec. 5. For more information, or to sign up, please call (405) 682-7860 or email khoaglin@occc.edu.

Stay in Shape OCCC
Did you know that as a regular employee or retiree at OCCC you have free access to the Recreation and Fitness wellness facility? For regular full-time employees free access also applies to immediate family members. The center features a weight room, gymnasium, cardiovascular room, aquatic center, and aerobics room.

A variety of classes are also offered for all fitness levels. All regular employees or retirees are eligible to participate in these classes at no cost. Enrollment in Wellness classes is completed on a monthly basis through the office of Professional Development. Enrollment is accomplished by emailing April Mitchell at amitchell@occc.edu the following information:

•    employee name
•    employee ID number
•    the fitness class name and section number

Don’t know what classes are offered? Simply check out the website for Recreation & Fitness at http://www.occc.edu/RF/ or contact ext.7860 or 7308 to have a Recreation & Fitness catalog sent to you by campus mail.

Earn Your Doctorate
Interested in earning your Ph.D. or Ed.D in Higher Education? Learn more about a prospective program starting up in the fall of 2010 with courses delivered in Oklahoma City. Attend an information session in the Library, Room 407A, Thursday, Oct. 15 from 11 am to 1 pm.

Program faculty will be on hand to share information regarding the prospective program, admission, degree requirements, cost and more.

For more information, visit http://hired.okstate.edu.

This Week’s Training Sessions
Take advantage of professional development opportunities provided through the college’s training programs.

Recording grades & attendance in ANGEL
Course Number: TEC-1052-007
Date: Monday, October 12
Times: 1:30 PM-2:30 PM
Location: SEM - 2G1A
Presenter: Glenne’ Whisenhunt

F2F: Online and ANGEL Discussion
Moderator: Anita Philipp
Back by popular request! Join your colleagues for a Faculty to Faculty (F2F) discussion. Bring your ideas and innovations to enhance online learning as well as increase the effectiveness of ANGEL. It is a great opportunity not only to learn from colleagues, but also to share techniques that work for you.
Two sessions are scheduled on Tuesday, Oct. 13, in CU2. The first session is set for 3 to 4 p.m., while the later session is scheduled for 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. All full-time and adjunct faculty are welcome and encouraged to attend either session, whether teaching online or using ANGEL for campus classes. For questions, please contact Anita Philipp at aphilipp@occc.edu.

GET TO KNOW…
Julie R. Corff

Position:
Professor of Speech Communication

Department:
Arts and Humanities

How long have you worked for OCCC:
4 years full time, 12 years part time instructor

Previous Jobs:
UCO, OSU and OSU-OKC

Family:
Husband: Daniel, Daughter: Abigail - 11, Son: Caleb - 9

Hobbies:
Spending time with family, kids sports, date nights and building houses (we’ve built four and re-did one)

Community Involvement:
Christ Lutheran Church

Famous Favorite Saying/Quote:
“If it’s in your power to do good to someone, choose to do good!”

New Employees/Promotions

Rob Greggs
Coordinator of Telecommunications and Network Service
IITS
Extension: 7487

Glenne Whisenhunt
Director of The Center for Learning and Teaching
Online Education
Extension: 7413

Erin Logan
Director of Student Relations
Student Relations
Extension: 7821

Happy Birthday
John Reidy - 10/12
Pat Stowe - 10/12
Tim Whisenhunt - 10/12
Akram Taghavi-Burris - 10/13
Donna Angus - 10/13
Erinn Guzik - 10/13
Marian Rother - 10/13
Steven Shore - 10/13
Carlos Robinson - 10/14
Charlie Tarver - 10/14
Lyndsie Stremlow - 10/15
Chris Snow - 10/16
Dale Duke - 10/16
Liz Largent - 10/16
Jan Hein - 10/18
Kyron Smoot - 10/18

The Communicator - 10/05/09

In this issue, you’ll read:
Next Campus Voices set for Oct. 6
Here Comes the Sun
Sustainable Energy Solutions Seminar Set for Oct. 13
Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival to Perform Oct. 27
Dracula Visits OKC - Just in Time for Halloween
Online Tutoring Available
2009 OACC
This Week’s Training Sessions
Get to Know
Happy Birthday

Next Campus Voices set for Oct. 6
Student Life is excited to welcome David Cid, Acting Director for the Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism (MIPT), to the OCCC campus this Tuesday, Oct. 6. Cid is the second Campus Voices lecturer of the semester.

Cid will speak to students and faculty at 2 p.m. in the College Union, rooms 2 and 3. As the MIPT leader, Cid is involved in a variety of programs to educate the public about terrorism prevention and counter-terrorism initiatives.

Students enrolled in political science, sociology, psychology, history and journalism classes would especially enjoy this educational opportunity for all students.

Professors are also welcome to bring their entire class if it meets during the lecture. OCCC students overwhelmingly report that faculty and staff encouragement is their number one motivator for participating in educational opportunities like the Campus Voices lecture series. Please help by passing this information along to students or colleagues who may be interested. Don’t hesitate to contact Student Life if you have questions about this event.

Here Comes the Sun
Due to the growing demand for clean sources of energy, the sun has become a hot commodity these days. Solar photovoltaics, also known as Solar PV, is the field of technology and research related to the application of solar cells for energy by converting sunlight directly into electricity.

Starting Oct. 6, OCCC’s Corporate Learning is again providing courses to train solar photovoltaics technicians. For those who wish to become professionally trained in the design and installation of PV systems, now is the time to enroll and learn the theory behind and practice required to use and install a solar electric system.

The program begins with AC/DC Fundamentals, set for every Tuesday evening, Oct. 6, 2009 through Jan. 19, 2010 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Intro to Photovoltaic(PV) Theory and Systems is scheduled for every Wednesday evening, Nov. 4, 2009 through Dec. 9, 2009 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Additional classes will include courses on Photovoltaic System Components and Configuration and Photovoltaic System Design, Installation and Maintenance, all scheduled for Spring 2010.

Photovoltaic technology makes use of the abundant energy in the sun with little impact on our environment. Photovoltaics can be used in a wide range of products, from small consumer items to large commercial solar electric systems.

Shining Solar Examples
As renewable or “green” energy sources become more widely utilized, a skilled workforce of qualified photovoltaic technicians will be highly important. As well, with new building-integrated solar technology, state rebates, federal tax credits, and mortgage breaks for energy-efficient homes, it’s a great time to look into solar electricity. Many builders across the country have found that energy efficient solar houses will sell faster, saving builders significant costs.

More and more homeowners are also seeing the added value of solar homes because energy-efficient buildings are simply better buildings. They use less energy, cost less to operate, and improve comfort. They help the environment and our nation, improving our energy independence, as well as the everyday lives of Americans.

Solar power is the largest available energy source for the United States, although in 2006 it accounted for less than 0.1% of electricity generation. Renewable resources (solar, wind, geothermal, hydroelectric, biomass, and waste) provided nearly 12 percent of the nation’s electricity supply in 2003. Due to the eight year extension of the 30% solar tax credit, it is estimated that energy efficient systems will save an additional 28,000 megawatts by the end of 2016.

For more information or to register for the Solar Photovoltaics Technician program, please contact Corporate Learning at (405) 682-7562 or jclaybon@occc.edu.

Sustainable Energy Solutions Seminar Set for Oct. 13
Also offered through Corporate Learning at OCCC’s John Massey Center, the Introduction to Sustainable Energy Solutions seminar will feature Bob Willis of Sunrise Alternative Energy. The seminar is set for Tuesday, Oct. 13 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Willis will discuss key aspects to ensuring new energy sources for today and for future generations. As well, the seminar will cover the three E’s of sustainability - environmental quality, economic vitality, and equal opportunity.

To register, call (405) 682-7562 or email Rose Beam at rbeam@occc.edu. The cost for the seminar is $25.

Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival to Perform Oct. 27
One of Russia’s most celebrated performing arts groups, the Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival, will bring the heart of Russian culture to OCCC on Tuesday, Oct. 27. Experience traditional songs, dazzling dances and live music in the Bruce Owen Theater beginning at 7 p.m.

The Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival is an ensemble of talented musicians and dancers, founded and led by Nikolai Massenkoff, who brings Russia to life on stages across the world. The group has been praised for their unmatched performances and their ability to share folk music, culture and tradition through music and dance.

Traveling the world for over twenty years, Nikolai Massenkoff and his amazing ensemble have performed at the World Showcase Area of Epcot Center more than a hundred times, at numerous colleges and universities, and at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Korea. His ensemble has shared the stage with more than fifteen internationally renowned symphony orchestras and has appeared on television worldwide. Additionally, they have appeared at Carnegie Hall and performed with stars such as Julio Iglesias, Ray Charles, Bob Hope, and Tony Bennett, to name but a few.

Performance ticket prices are as follows: $22, general admission; $17 for senior adults, faculty, staff or Alumni Association Members; $10 for OCCC students and children 17 and under.

Dracula Visits OKC - Just in Time for Halloween
The Tulsa Ballet is presenting “Dracula” in Oklahoma City at the Civic Center Music Hall and is offering discount tickets to OCCC students, faculty and staff members on Saturday, Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 25 at 2 p.m.

Dracula will be a great Halloween event. The choreographer of the show is Ben Stevenson and the composer is Franz Liszt. The haunting music will be provided by the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra. This production features stunning theatrics, including vampire brides who fly magically through the air, a frightening coach that careens on and off stage and an exploding chandelier. Please see the dates of performances and pricing listed below.

To purchase tickets, call (918) 392-5914. There is an additional charge of $2.00 per ticket for handling fees.

Online Tutoring Available
SMARTHINKING, OCCC’s online tutoring service has assisted over 2,300 students with more than 1,200 hours of usage from July 1, 2008 to July 1, 2009.

Tutors help students in the following areas of study: mathematics (basic math through Calculus including Bilingual Math), Biology, Intro Human A & P, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics, Economics, Accounting, Intro to Finance, Statistics, Spanish, and Writing.

If you know of a student who is slipping in their classes, encourage them to “think smart” and look into SMARTHINKING online at OCCC. Below is an example of the tutoring sessions that were completed in various subject areas.

2009 OACC
The Oklahoma Association of Community Colleges will be hosting the Fall Conference for Support Staff this Friday, Oct. 9 at Moore Norman Technology Center, South Penn Campus.

Speakers include Dr. Mark Taylor and Clifton Taulbert. Dr. Taylor’s topic is “Serving Student Customers- A Developmental Approach.” Dr. Taylor’s presentation will examine the characteristics and expectations of today’s students. Session participants will come to understand these traits, and how we can provide the kinds of customer oriented services that contribute to student satisfaction, persistence, development and success. Mr. Taulbert’s topic is “Team Building-Relationships and Results.” Mr. Taulbert will explore the dynamics of team building, shared vision, personal commitment and accountability. Session participants will be challenged to think beyond their independent silos of excellence and embrace the flexible, competitive edge and quality of service that can occur within a committed and driven team.

There will also be a new break-out session that will group participants according to their occupation. This round table discussion will allow participants to discuss strategies, successes, failures, and lessons learned along the way. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with higher educational partnership institutions who will be on site to provide information on degree completion programs and continuing education options all for working adults.

Please join the OACC as we take a day to celebrate and rejuvenate our hard working and dedicated support staff. Registration is available online at: www.oacc.onenet.net. Your support is very much appreciated!

This Week’s Training Sessions
Take advantage of professional development opportunities provided through the college’s training program. There are three upcoming opportunities to learn more about SMARTHINKING. Please join one of these sessions to learn more about this service and the ways in which it can help your students succeed.

SMARTHINKING
Date: Tuesday, Oct 27, 2009
Times: 2:00 PM
Location: SEM 2E2

SMARTHINKING
Date: Tuesday, Oct 27, 2009
Times: 4:00 PM
Location: SEM 2E2

SMARTHINKING
Date: Tuesday, Oct 27, 2009
Times: 7:00 PM
Location: SEM 2E2

Using Inventor 2009
Course Number: TEC-1051-001
Date: Friday, October 2
Times: 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
Location: LB - 201
Presenter: Gregory, Douglas H

Adding content in ANGEL
Date: Tuesday, October 6
Times: 3:00 PM-4:00 PM
Location: SEM - 2G1A
Presenter: Glenne’ Whisenhunt

Recording grades & attendance in ANGEL
Date: Wednesday, October 7
Times: 2:00 PM-3:00 PM
Location: SEM - 2G1A
Presenter: Glenne’ Whisenhunt

F2F: Online and ANGEL Discussion
Moderator: Anita Philipp
Back by popular request, join your colleagues for a Faculty to Faculty (F2F) discussion. Bring your ideas and innovations to enhance online learning as well as increase the effectiveness ANGEL. It is a great opportunity not only to learn from colleagues, but also to share techniques that work for you.

Two sessions are scheduled on Tuesday, Oct. 13, in CU2. The first session is set for 3 to 4 p.m., while the later session is scheduled for 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

A comprehensive catalog of the training sessions can be found on http://www.occc.edu/wow.

GET TO KNOW…
Lori Johnson

Position:
Payroll Specialist

Department:
Finance

How long have you worked for OCCC:
1 Year

Previous Jobs:
Knol and Minney, bookkeeper, Insurance agency office manager

Family:
Spouse: Robert
Children: Cody, 16 and Cale, 10

Hobbies:
Spending time with family, watching Cody play baseball and Cale wrestle, riding 4-wheelers

Community Involvement:
Christ Lutheran Church

Famous Favorite Saying/Quote:
“Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others; it is the only means.”
- Albert Einstein

Happy Birthday
Anthony Tyrrell - 10/5
Christine Peck - 10/5
Doralicia Sandoval - 10/5
Lisa Vaughan - 10/5
Richard Trout - 10/5
Ron Staton - 10/5
Kathy Stouder - 10/6
Dana Tuley-Williams - 10/7
Glenda Prince - 10/7
Rebecca Linger - 10/7
Tad Thurston - 10/7
Carol Heitkamper - 10/9
Jeffrey Carlisle - 10/9
Linda Cowan - 10/9
Cynthia Gary - 10/11
Linda Robinett - 10/11
Ted Lemser - 10/11