Area middle school girls gathered January 10, 2013, at Grand Rapids Community College for seminars about health, education and self-esteem.
The fourth-annual Beautiful U was hosted by GRCC and Ferris State University. The event included a presentation by nutritionist Jill Jayne and a tour of the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education.
Nutritionist ‘rockstar’ speaks to middle school students at GRCC
January 10, 2013; MLive
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Dozens of middle school girls gathered Thursday at Grand Rapids Community College for a seminar about health, education and self-esteem.
Nutritionist Jill Jayne led the event, known as Beautiful U, which was hosted by GRCC and Ferris State University. Jayne, event organizers said, has been recognized for her presentations, which teach young people about nutrition in an engaging and entertaining way.
Bloomingdale’s Richard Godfrey elected chairman of Van Buren County Board of Commissioners
January 9, 2013; MLive
PAW PAW, MI — The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners has a new leader.
Commissioners on Tuesday elected Richard Godfrey, of Bloomingdale, to head the seven-member board.
(Richard Godfrey is a retired GRCC faculty member and past president of the Faculty Association.)
Thank you to everyone who has already signed up to help staff the Student Information Stations. We have just a few more slots to fill, so if you haven’t signed up already, or think you might be able to cover one additional shift, please sign up today!
This year, the Student Information Stations will be held Monday, January 14, 2013 through Wednesday, January 16, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5-6 p.m. Please follow the steps below to register to volunteer.
Here are the locations:
If you have any questions or need assistance with registering, please feel free to contact Liz Tyrell at ltyrell@grcc.edu or extension 3531. Thank you in advance for volunteering!
Opening January 24, 2013, Actors Theatre Grand Rapids is proud to present the West Michigan premiere of the Keith Huff’s poetic police drama. A Steady Rain. A Steady Rain tells a story of brotherhood, loyalty and betrayal through the plays two main characters: Denny and Joey.
Denny and Joey are childhood best friends as well as partners on their job with the Chicago Police Department. In addition to their days on the job, Joey helps out with Denny’s family and Denny keeps Joey away from his many vices. When a routine domestic disturbance call turns in to something much more frightening and tragic, the aftermath sends the two on a harrowing journey where friendship and loyalty are tested, and lives will be forever changed.
A Steady Rain originally debuted at Chicago Dramatists in 2007, before transferring to Broadway, where the production starred famed actors Hugh Jackman and Daniel Craig. In its premiere production, the Chicago Sun Times had this to say:
“Huff tells the story of a relationship of almost biblical intensity, and one riddled with love, loyalty, guilt, shame, rage and a sort of primal inevitability.”
The Daily Herald called A Steady Rain “a thoroughly engrossing examination of the toll the job takes on those sworn to serve and protect, and how amorphous the line between criminal and cop can be.”
The Actors’ production is directed by veteran Jeralyn Pinsky, who has directed nearly 20 productions for Actors’ Theatre, and features the talents of Todd Lewis and Jim Cantrell in the roles of Denny and Joey, respectively. Lewis and Cantrell are no strangers to West Michigan stages and bolster this vivid and intense two-person drama with their expertise.
Jonathan Clausen, Director of Development at Actors’ Theatre had this to say about the play:
“A Steady Rain follows a great tradition of two-person dramas such as Eugene O’Neill’s Hugie, Susan Lori Parks’ Pulitzer Prize-Winning Top Dog/Underdog or David Mamet’s Oleanna in that the actors, through their characters, are not only responsible for portraying their distinct personalities but also conveying the richness of the world in which they live. People often use the word ‘cinematic’ to describe A Steady Rain and, yet, it’s the kind of play that somehow works best where it was intended: the live stage. It’s harshly authentic at times, poetically poignant at others. Audiences are in for a wild ride of discovery, twists and turns when they see the show.”
A Steady Rain will be presented on two consecutive weekends at GRCC Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain Street NE, Grand Rapids, beginning on January 24, 2012 and closing on February 2, 2013. All evening performances begin at 8PM.
Ticket prices begin at $24 for adults and $20 for students/seniors. Students with valid ID are eligible for $10 RUSH seating, based on availability, beginning one hour before the performance. Groups of ten or more are eligible for discounts. Tickets for A Steady Rain may be purchased online here or by contacting the Actors’ Theatre box office at (616) 234-3946.
Members of the media wishing to obtain interviews or special access may contact Jon Clausen, Director of Development and Marketing, at jon@atgr.org or (616) 234-3817.
“January 9, 2013: ADA Presentation”
“Opening Day January 2013”
“GRCC: Disability Support Services”
Industry uses Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerencing to specify contractual requirements. Unfortunately, many people within industry have a flawed or incomplete understanding of the subject.
The Basic Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerencing course builds competence to correctly apply and interpret the rules, definitions, principles and symbols per the American National Standard, ASME Y14.5 – 2009, in only two days! This course provides a common language to improve communication, so set-up requirements and tolerance zones are clearly understood by all.
Topics include:
The course runs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. January 17 and 18, 2013, at Leslie. E Tassell M-TEC. The registration fee is $585. For more information, click here.
This year’s Faculty Learning Day, held January 10, 2013, at the Van Andel Institute, followed the theme “The Art and Science of Teaching and Learning.”
The program, hosted by the Center for Teaching Excellence, explored best practices in creating instruction that is accessible to all students—a topic of critical importance given the diversity of GRCC’s student population at GRCC.
“In any classroom you will find a microcosm of west Michigan — single parents, grandparents, single students who have just graduated from high school, students who have a language other than English as their first language, students with disabilities, and students who have already had success in college and are simply returning to gain a new skill,” said Dr. Ric Underhile, associate dean for instructional support. “Creating instruction for all of these students requires as much art as science.”
The event kicked off with a keynote address by Irene Bowen, president of ADA One, a consulting firm dedicated to advocacy and education for persons with disabilities. In addition, faculty attended sessions on topics such as Universal Design, responding to different learning styles, and working with students with various disabilities. The program ended with a panel discussion by four GRCC students with disabilities.
“Our primary goal at GRCC is to educate our community and to do so in a way that fosters success and helps people achieve their goals” said Dr. Jeremy Osborn, director of the Center for Teaching Excellence. “These sessions will help all of us think more intentionally about how we can use collaboration, technology, and creativity to foster that success for a wider group of students.”
Guest speakers included Lennie Scott-Webber, director of education environments at Steelcase; Nanette Clatterbuck, associate provost of Graduate and Professional Studies at Aquinas College; and Jeff Sykes, assistive technology coordinator at Grand Valley State University. GRCC presenters included Diane Sparks, Ann Alexander, Anne Sherman, Ron Ralya, Sarah Rose, Cheryl Kautz, Meegan Willi and Dr. Osborn.
GRCC Staff Development is delighted to enter into its second semester of co-sponsoring workshop sessions with GVSU. The Winter/Spring 2013 learning opportunities detailed below are available to all GRCC employees, and earn Professional Development credits for 2012-13. Workshops are presented on both the Grand Rapids and Allendale campuses. Location information is shown with each workshop description. Please consider participating in these sessions. Online registration is available at by clicking here or call Staff Development at ext. 4285.
Social Media for the Advanced User
Tues. Jan 15, 2013
8:30-11:30 AM
Room 2263 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Leah Twiley and Nate Hoekstra from the GVSU web team will review the latest social media guidelines and talk about the best practices for when, what and how to post updates to your social media accounts. They will also review the web team’s role with social media at the university and cover the following: Facebook: Advertising; Pages, Administrators, Insights and Settings; Wall Management; Profile Management; Tagging individuals & organizations in posts. Twitter: When to @reply, @mention and direct message; Hash tags; Related services & tools; Profile management; Twitter photos & geotagging.
What Daddies Do Best
Thurs. Jan 17, 2013
12:00-1:00 PM
Room 2264 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Thurs. Mar 14, 2013
12:00-1:00 PM
Room 2264 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
“Parents are often so busy with the physical rearing of children that they miss the glory of parenthood, just as the grandeur of the trees is lost when raking leaves.” Marcelene Cox.
Take a moment to meet with other GVSU and GRCC dads to talk about fatherhood and the challenges that parents face. Join us for a lively, engaging discussion and lunch twice a semester, to hear how other fathers are coping with parenthood; their greatest fears, and their greatest joys ~ their children! This group is for fathers with children of all ages.
Alzheimer’s and Caregiver’s Support Group
Thurs. Jan 17, 2013
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Room 2242 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Whether you are caring for an aging loved one who can no longer live without your help or for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, GVSU recognizes the challenges that you are facing. Being a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or someone who is unable to live independently, is known for placing a great burden on the caregiver. The pressures can be wide-ranging, and touch the social, psychological, physical and economic facets of the caregiver’s life. Get the support that you need by attending the GVSU Caregiver and Alzheimer’s Support Group. The group is facilitated by Cindy Beel-Bates, associate professor of nursing, and Sue Sloop, Work Life Connections consultant.
Writing for an Audience: Developing the “You Attitude”
Wed. Jan 23, 2013
9:00-11:00 AM
Room 2270 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
This workshop will teach you strategies for writing from a reader-centered perspective and for composing documents that meet the needs of an audience in the workplace. Specifically, you will learn to: Identify the needs and expectations of your readers; Develop stylistic techniques for emphasizing what your readers want or need to know; Craft and revise correspondence documents (memos, e-mails, letters) that “talk” to the readers. This session to be presented by Laurence Jose and Amorak Huey, Assistant Professors of Writing,
Cancer Warriors Network
Mon. Jan 28, 2013
4:00-6:00 PM
Room 2270 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Nearly 14 million cancer survivors are celebrating birthdays this year. The statistic illustrates that growing numbers of people are surviving cancer. However, a cancer diagnosis is frightening and affects not only the person diagnosed with cancer, but caregivers and loved ones. If you’re facing a cancer diagnosis, have a loved one battling cancer, or you are through with treatment and on the road to recovery; connecting with others who have traveled this journey can be a source of comfort and hope. Join us on January 28th for the first meeting of the Cancer Warriors Network. This initial network meeting is an opportunity to bring together GVSU and GRCC families and friends, who have been impacted by cancer to gain information and support through speakers and cancer resources available on the site. Light refreshments will be served.
Lifestyle Productivity
Mon. Jan 28, 2013
1:30-4:30 PM
Room 340, Bike Factory Building (Allendale Campus)
The goal of this seminar is to teach you how to increase your productivity at work and at home. You will learn simple techniques to help you identify your core values and goals. This will enable you to take control and get order in your life by learning to prioritize and be more organized. The result will be reduced stress and frustration and an increased sense of accomplishment. Workshop presented by Michael Walenta, General Manager, WGVU
Creative Leadership
Tues. Feb 5, 2013
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Room 2270 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
After 23 years of leading others at GVSU, Wendy Wenner, University Professor, returns to share her secrets of creative leadership. Participants will be able to interact and learn from the best.
Working With International Students, Faculty and Staff
Thurs. Feb 7, 2013
1:00-2:30 PM
Room 107C Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
This interactive session will include current international students as well as an overview to better serve the international student population at GVSU. This session will be presented by Kate Stoetzner, Director of International Student and Scholar Services at GVSU.
The Career Portfolio
Tues. Feb 26, 2013
1:00-3:00 PM
Room 1142 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Thurs. Feb 28, 2013
1:00-3:00 PM
Room 302E, Richard M. Devos Center (GR Pew Campus)
This workshop focuses on developing the contents of the career portfolio: Resume, Cover Letter and References, etc. We will cover content, composition and style with emphasis on creating polished documents that make an impact and stand apart from the competition. We will also take a look at current trends and how a key part of your portfolio includes a professional social media presence.
Leadership Your Team Can Follow
Wed. Feb 27, 2013
1:00-4:00 PM
Room 303C, Richard M. Devos Center (GR Pew Campus)
What are the hallmarks of a great leader? To begin, a great leader is one who understands the importance of capitalizing on the strengths of their team. They also know the importance of creating a healthy and positive work environment by fostering clear and open lines of communication. Finally, great leaders rally their team to align their personal and professional visions with your overall department/organization goals. In this interactive workshop, you will discover:
1) What makes you a great leader and where are your growth opportunities
2) How conducting a SWOTS analysis of your department/organization is imperative for goal attainment
3) Ways to empower your team, help them realize their potential, and foster great working relationships
4) That the admission of weakness doesn’t equate to failure, but rather provides a platform for modeling professional growth and empowerment.
This session to be presented by Kim Monaghan, Human Resources Career Services.
Bias Incident Protocol Training
Thurs. Feb 28, 2013
3:30-5:00 PM
303C Richard M. Devos Center (GR Pew Campus)
What is a biased incident? Do they happen at GRCC or GVSU? What do I do if I experience or witness one? The Team Against Bias (TAB) is a diverse group of faculty, staff and students at GVSU. The group was created to review information regarding bias incidents and implement strategies to educate and engage the campus community. TAB is committed to making certain that all faculty, staff and students know what a bias incident is and how to use their protocol for reporting such incidents. This training is both interactive and practical. This workshop presented by Members of the GVSU Team Against Bias (TAB).
Happiness Habits
Wed. Mar 13, 2013
9:30-11:00 AM
Room 2266 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Thurs. Mar 14, 2013
9:30-11:00 AM
Room 303C Richard M. Devos Center (GR Pew Campus)
Research has proven how vital happiness is to the wellbeing of each person. Happy people live longer, are healthier and have better relationships. In fact, happiness leads to more success in every area of a person’s life. Learn how you can become happy from the inside out by developing happiness habits. These habits will help you to become a happier person whose happiness does not depend on external circumstances.
A Writer’s Tool Kit for Career-Minded Professionals
Wed. Mar 13, 2013
12:00-1:30 PM
Room 1142 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Writing is a key skill for any successful career and communication that is clear and concise. This workshop offers grammar, style, structure and editing tips for developing emails, letters, memos and other written correspondence. In this 90-minute workshop, learn essential skills, including:
This session to be presented by Angela Klinske, editor, public relations and communications consultant.
Leadership Through Developing, Empowering and Delegating
Wed. Mar 20, 2013
8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Room 2250 Russel h. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Wed. Mar 20, 2013
1:00-4:00 PM
Room 123 Cook-Devos Center for Health Sciences (GR Pew Campus)
This eye-opening, must-see program for all educational leaders is based on the 2012 book titled “Things LEADERS Say”, from award-winning author Andy Masters. Most of us are aware of the positives from delegating-we’ve heard them before. Further, the results of not delegating include burnout, stress and getting overwhelmed with tasks which distract us from our priorities. Yet, why is delegation one of the most underutilized skills in organizations today? Join Andy as he shares powerful tools to develop and empower your staff, so you can focus maximum time and effort on your most important responsibilities–while instilling confidence and pride throughout your organization. Andy also shares the direct “ROI” from creating a culture of developing and delegating, and how most organizations lose big dollars annually from an ineffective use of its human resources. Two sessions will be presented by Andy Masters, Author and International Speaker.
Strategies for Delivering Negative News
Mon. Mar 25, 2013
9:00-11:00 AM
Room 2266 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Participants in this workshop will learn effective writing strategies for delivering negative news. The workshop will focus on techniques for improving tone and organization when writing these difficult messages. Workshop presented by Ellen Schendel, Associate Professor of Writing and Interim Associate Dean of the Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies, and Christopher Toth, Assistant Professor of Writing.
Happiness Club
Fri. Mar 29, 2013
12:00-1:00 PM
Room 2215/2216 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Join others who are interested in making changes to their thoughts and attitude to become a happier person. The Happiness Club will provide an opportunity to meet and network with others who are committed to improving the quality of their life by injecting happiness into everyday living. Facilitated by Linda Yuhas, GVSU Human Resources.
Flourish at Work: Performing at your peak and managing a successful career
Wed. Apr 3, 2013
9:00-11:00 AM
Room 1142 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
Thurs. Apr 11, 2013
9:00-11:00 AM
Room 302E Richard M. Devos Center (GR Pew Campus)
You are in a position to drive your career and not let your career drive you. This workshop is all about the drive and steering your career in the right direction. We’ll begin by looking at what makes your job great and where some tweaks might be needed. What strategies you can take to flourish in what works and change what doesn’t. We’ll also talk about career re-engagement and how personal and professional development parlay into success. Finally, we’ll address the imperative ingredients in peak performance, including: time management, relating well with others, having a positive attitude, taking responsibility for successes and failures and offering superior customer service.
Problem Solving and Decision Making: principles for creating and experiencing greater personal and career success
Thur. Apr 11, 2013
8:30-11:30 AM
Room 2266 Russel H. Kirkhof Center (Allendale Campus)
The nature of your early experiences and environment notwithstanding, your attitudes and behaviors have contributed significantly to your condition in life, personally and professionally. Who do you want to become? What do you want to experience and accomplish in the months and years ahead? The gaps between where you are now and where you want to be in the future are “problems.” Navigating the challenges, obstacles and opportunities you encounter at work and in your personal life involves “decision making.” This workshop will help you:
Workshop presented by Renwick Brutus, MBA / Founder & CEO, Achievement Resources, LLC
THE ONE! Career Networking Event
Thurs. May 2, 2013
6:00-8:00 PM
Room 105E (Hager-Lubbers Exhibition Hall and Loosemore Gallery) Richard M. Devos Center (GR Pew Campus)
Mark your calendar for THE ONE networking event of the year. Discover the power of genuine networking and how you can transform your career through building strategic alliances. We will have a guest presenter, Jennifer Maxson, Practice Group Leader with Varnum Consulting speaking on the importance of communication in building a strong professional network. The presentation will be followed by ‘speed networking’ session. This program is open to all GVSU faculty, staff AND community professionals looking to build their networking skills, advance their careers and/or business.
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