Monthly Archives: March 2015

GRCC In the News, 3-31-15

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Family saddened, finds closure with body discovery

March 30, 2015; Grand Haven Tribune

Timothy Groenhout, 39, of Grand Rapids went missing on Jan. 21 from downtown Grand Rapids.

… Tim graduated from the Culinary Arts School at Grand Rapids Community College, worked as a chef in downtown Grand Rapids and then headed to Seattle to also work as a chef. He recently moved back to Grand Rapids from Washington, and was living with his girlfriend and looking for a job.

Engaging Students Through Community Connections

March 30, 2015; schoolnewsnetwork.org (Kent Intermediate School District newsletter)

Godfrey Lee Public Schools, MI — During Steve Rierson’s Lee High School physics class, students become pretend members of the Wyoming City Council, researching alternative energy sources for possible city use.

… The 19-year high school teacher takes his job beyond the walls of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. By day, Rierson is in the Lee biology, physics, forensics, and anatomy classes. His evenings are spent as an adjunct professor at Kendall College of Art and Design teaching natural science, and at Grand Rapids Community College teaching human anatomy and physiology.

Grand Rapids tapping successful black men to mentor at-risk male students

March 30, 2015; MLive

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Retired educator Robert Hurd will be among local men attending a training session Tuesday, March 31, for volunteer coaches who will mentor black male students in Grand Rapids Public Schools’ Grade School to Grad School (G2G) program.

… GRPS’ initiative is being done in collaboration with Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids Urban League, Boy Scouts of America, Grand City Sports, and Western Michigan University Cooley Law School.

Technology Showcase featured demonstrations, prizes

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The second annual Technology Showcase took place on March 25, 2015. The Showcase included College vendors such as Lenovo, Apple, e-NABLE, GovConnection, and Comprenew. Several College departments were also on-site introducing fascinating pieces of educational technology.

Students and staff were able to see a myriad of technology demonstrations and displays including 3D printing, the HP Sprout, and recycling old electronic components. Visitors were also able to sit in on and view several presentations on hot technology related topics.

The Showcase also included door prizes with lucky students winning a Lenovo Chromebook from Lenovo and an Apple iPad mini from GovConnection.

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‘Open Door’ traces history of sustainability efforts

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Did you know that the Wisner-Bottrall Applied Technology Center has a 25,000-square-foot green roof that cools and cleans the air of downtown Grand Rapids? Drought-tolerant sedum plants create insulation for the building, saving energy and enhancing ATC acoustics. The green roof also provides natural herb gardens for the Culinary Arts program.

Learn about GRCC’s long-term commitment to sustainability in Open Door, the newly published 100-year history of GRJC/GRCC. The book can be purchased at Schuler Books, the GRCC Library, or online here.

ATC green roof

Exhibit, reading celebrate 100 years of Display Magazine

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Display magazine 1965Join GRCC Art and English faculty and students, and former writers and artists published in GRCC’s Display Magazine, for the Student Art Exhibit and the 100 Issues of Display Magazine Reading from 5-7 p.m. April 8.

Of the 100 issues of Display Magazine published between 1965 and 2014, approximately 60 pieces of art and 60 pieces of literature have been included in a special 100 year retrospective issue. Former Display advisers Walt Lockwood and David Cope are expected to attend and introduce former students, who will read their work published in the retrospective. The English Department’s annual Display Writing Award winners will also be reading from Display’s most current literary works.

The 100 Issues of Display Reading is hosted by Maryann Lesert, Display adviser, 2010-present, and the GRCC English Department. The reading will be held in the Health Tutorial Lab, room 401 on the fourth floor of Cook Hall. The art exhibit, featuring work from this year’s visual arts students, will be held in the GRCC Collins Art Gallery on the fourth floor of the main building.  Refreshments and reception snacks will be served in both areas.

Celebrate Month of the Young Child

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Each April, Michigan celebrates Month of the Young Child® (MOYC®). This is a time when communities and individuals recognize the needs and rights of young children and their families.

Since 1971, one week in April has been celebrated nationally as Week of the Young Child. In 1985, Michigan expanded the celebration to the entire month of April, with each week having a specific focus.

The week of April 13th, the Child Development & Education Department will be celebrating the Week of the Young Child with activities each day!

Monday, April 13th – Stop by the Child Development & Education Department Office (room 266 Main) to pick up a purple ribbon to wear in support of the Month of the Young Child

Tuesday, April 14th – Wear purple in support of the Month of the Young Child

Wednesday, April 15 – Stop by the Child Development & Education Department Office (room 266 Main) and enjoy some purple snacks

Thursday, April 16th – Stop by the Child Development & Education Department and donate food or decorate a bag for a sack supper for Kids Food Basket (see link for wish list of items needed http://www.kidsfoodbasket.org/donate/juice-box-drive).

Faculty, staff organize community service events for April

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During the week of April 6-11, 2015 there will be many opportunities to give back to our community. Many Departments and Faculty/Staff are coming together to make this week of giving back happen. Thank you!

100 Year Servicing our Community Events April 6-11, 2015

**April 6**

  • School Supply Collection: pens, pencils, markers, crayons, glue, scissors… to deliver to GRCC Preschool and Baxter Community Center :
  • Time/Location: All Day Event: Drop Boxes: Sneden Lobby, Calkins Science Building Lobby, Experiential Learning Department Room 59 – Main Building Level G2, and Ford Field House Lobby
  • Kids Food Basket : color a sack bag or bring in a Food item from Wish List for Kids Food Basket

Wish List: Cracker Packs and Granola Bars, Peanut Butter, Snack Size Zip-Loc Bags, Individual Fruit Cups, Pudding Cups, Gelatin Cups, 100% Fruit Packs, Sandwich Size Zip-Loc Bags, 8 lb or Extra large Sack Bags, Individual Serving Size Cereal, Bulk Pretzels, Veggie Straws, Cheerios (Plain)

  • Time/Location: 9-2 PM Ford Field House Lobby

**April 7**

  • School Supply Collection: pens, pencils, markers, crayons, glue, scissors… to deliver to GRCC Preschool and Baxter Community Center :
  • Time/Location: All Day Event: Drop Boxes: Sneden Lobby, Calkins Science Building Lobby, Experiential Learning Department Room 59 – Main Building Level G2, and Ford Field House Lobby
  • Kids Food Basket: Color a sack bag or bring in a Food item from Wish List for Kids Food Basket

Wish List: Cracker Packs and Granola Bars, Peanut Butter, Snack Size Zip-Loc Bags, Individual Fruit Cups, Pudding Cups, Gelatin Cups, 100% Fruit Packs, Sandwich Size Zip-Loc Bags, 8 lb or Extra large Sack Bags, Individual Serving Size Cereal, Bulk Pretzels, Veggie Straws, Cheerios (Plain)

  • Time/Location: 9-2 PM Ford Field House Lobby
  • Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative with GRCC Preschool and Child Development: Come help put together some Flannel Board Family Kits for ELNC
  • Time/Location: 2:30-4:30 GRCC Lab Preschool

**April 8**

  • School Supply Collection: pens, pencils, markers, crayons, glue, scissors… to deliver to GRCC Preschool and Baxter Community Center :
  • Time/Location: All Day Event: Drop Boxes: Sneden Lobby, Calkins Science Building Lobby, Experiential Learning Department Room 59 – Main Building Level G2, and Ford Field House Lobby
  • Cards for Veterans Home: Come write a thank you letter to our veterans. These will be delivered to the GR Veterans Home.
  • Time/Location: Experiential Learning Department: Room 59 – Main Building Level G2 9-11AM
  • Seed Beads: Come build a “seed bead” with clay/dirt and seeds. These will be donated to area GR Parks.
  • Time/Location: 5th Floor Calkins Science Green House 3-5 PM

**April 9**

  • School Supply Collection: pens, pencils, markers, crayons, glue, scissors… to deliver to GRCC Preschool and Baxter Community Center:
  • Time/Location: All Day Event: Drop Boxes: Sneden Lobby, Calkins Science Building Lobby, Experiential Learning Department Room 59 – Main Building Level G2, and Ford Field House Lobby
  • Cards for Veterans Home: Come write a thank you letter to our veterans. These will be delivered to the GR Veterans Home.
  • Time/Location: Experiential Learning Department: Room 59 – Main Building Level G2 1-3 PM
  • Seed Beads: Come build a “seed bead” with clay/dirt and seeds. These will be donated to area GR Parks
  • Time/Location: 5th Floor Calkins Science Green House 11-1 PM
  • Kids Food Basket: come color a sack bag to be donated to Kids Food Basket
  • Time/Location: 1-3:00 3rd floor Stewart White Hall

**April 10**

  • School Supply Collection: pens, pencils, markers, crayons, glue, scissors… to deliver to GRCC Preschool and Baxter Community Center :
  • Time/Location: All Day Event: Drop Boxes: Sneden Lobby, Calkins Science Building Lobby, Experiential Learning Department Room 59 – Main Building Level G2, and Ford Field House Lobby

**April 11**

  • STEM Event
  • Time/Location: ATC 8-3:30

GRCC In the News, 3-30-15

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Michigan colleges teach students how to tap into the craft beer industry

March 27, 2015; USA Today

As college advising rolls around, students may find themselves sitting with advisors trying to determine what path is the most appropriate and debating which major to pursue. Sifting through class lists, options of majors and internship opportunities can be stressful. But some Michigan students will be able to focus on something a little less stressful — beer.

… Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC), located in Beer City USA, will provide students with the option to obtain a craft brewing management certificate in 2016 due to a $2.9 million grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corp, according to the Grand Rapids Business Journal. The program will reside under The Secchia Institute for Culinary Education.

Latino Youth Conference Shows College a Possibility

March 27, 2015; schoolnewsnetwork.org (Kent Intermediate School District newsletter)

Kent ISD, MI — When 18-year-old Maritza Martinez enrolls at Grand Rapids Community College next fall, she’ll have a $500 scholarship for books in her pocket to help pave her way.

Inside Track: An advocate for change

March 27, 2015; Grand Rapids Business Journal

Lisa McMichael has seen a lot of changes in the field of occupational therapy since she started her career two decades ago, and she expects to see more thanks to the baby boomer generation.

… McMichael grew up in Grand Rapids, and at the suggestion from a mentor at her church she decided to explore the occupational therapy program at Grand Rapids Community College after she graduated from East Kentwood High School.

Greenville duo signs to play softball in college

March 27, 2015; Greenville Daily News

GREENVILLE — Sarah Newhouse and Elizabeth Niemiec have yet to begin their season seasons of softball, save for practice, for the Greenville Yellow Jackets.

… Newhouse has signed last week to play for Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC), while Niemiec signed in February to play at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC).

April Staff Development Learning Opportunities

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Staff and Faculty are encouraged to register online on the Staff Development registration page http://grcc.edu/staffdevelopment/currentlearningopportunitiesregistration. Workshops are open to all Staff and Faculty.

What Daddies Do Best

Thu Apr 2, 2015 from 12-1 PM in Room 2264 Kirkhof Center, GVSU Allendale

Are you a new father, either biologically or through a blended family? Do you often wonder what other fathers think about parenthood? Maybe your kids are grown and you have some wisdom and advice to pass along to newer fathers. Meet with other GVSU and GRCC dads for lively and interesting discussion around a variety of topics related to parenthood. Lunch provided. Facilitated by Sharalle Arnold, GVSU Children’s Enrichment Center & Sue Sloop, GVSU Work Life Connections Program.  **Due to limited number of seats, preference will be given to GVSU employees in the event the workshop is full**

Retirement Planning Lunch & Learn

Thu Apr 2, 2015 from 12-1 PM in Room 125 Calkins Science Center

Part of the PNC Bank ‘Community Development Banking Lunch & Learn’ series. PNC representatives will explain retirement planning and will help participants prepare to achieve their retirement vision. **PNC Bank will be providing a complimentary lunch to all attending this presentation**

Using Emotional Intelligence

Tue Apr 7, 2015 from 9-11 AM in Room 103 Sneden Hall

Complete title: “Using Your Emotional Intelligence to Build Relationships” We’ve all heard the importance of emotional intelligence, but how can it, along with social and interpersonal intelligence, help you build your career and develop stronger, more powerful and mutually beneficial relationships. Learn how to prevent conflict, stand out as a leader and empower others as well as yourself. In this 2 hour workshop, we’ll explore the importance of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and relationship management. Facilitated by Kim Monaghan.

Fast, Fresh & Fabulous

Fri Apr 10, 2015 from 12-1:30 PM in Room 130, ATC

Part of the Kent County Health Department-Adult Nutrition Series: With every season, there are foods that we love – recipes that capitalize on fresh ingredients and in-season flavors. Learn how to make delicious and healthy seasonal dishes in under 30 minutes. Facilitated by Dawn Davies.

Cancer Warriors Network

Mon Apr 13, 2015 from 3-4:30 PM in Room 302C DeVos Center, GVSU GR

This month’s topic is “Grief and Loss.” Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with cancer? Do you feel alone and overwhelmed? A cancer diagnosis is frightening and affects not only the person diagnosed with cancer, but caregivers and loved ones. If you are 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. A new topic will be discussed each month. These network meetings are 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. Don’t try to navigate the cancer journey alone, please consider joining us. **Due to limited number of seats, preference will be given to GVSU employees in the event the workshop is full**

What Mommies Do Best

Wed Apr 15, 2015 from 12-1 PM in Room 1012 Zumberge Hall, GVSU Allendale

Working mothers today confront not only conflicting demands on their time and energy, but also conflicting ideas about how they are to behave: they must be nurturing and unselfish while engaged in child rearing, but competitive and ambitious at work. Meet with other GVSU Moms around interesting topics of discussion to both young moms and more experienced moms. Faculty, staff, and students are all welcome. This program is co-sponsored by GVSU Women’s Center and GVSU Women’s Commission. **Due to limited number of seats, preference will be given to GVSU employees in the event the workshop is full**

Desire Stress Relief – 4 A’s

Wed Apr 15, 2015 from 2-3 PM in Room 103 Sneden Hall

The effects of stress can weigh us down. Coping with daily life can be very difficult. Try using one of the four A’s: Avoid, Alter, Accept or Adapt. Learn to restore the balance back into your life! Facilitated by Allegro Coaching.

Run. Hide. Fight (Active Shooter Response Training)

Thu Apr 16, 2015 from 3-4:30 PM in Room 103 Sneden Hall

This training is required for all college staff and faculty. The 90 minute training session will be presented by GRCC Police Chief Rebecca Whitman, and will describe what an active shooter is; detail the ‘Run Hide Fight’ response to an active shooter situation; explain ways to recognize and report potential threats to our campus, and answer any questions attendees may have.

The Thriving Organization

Tue Apr 21, 2015 from 1-2:30 PM in Room 103 Sneden Hall

Do your employees leave work at the end of the day more excited, more engaged and more inspired than when they arrived? Are people able to do their best thinking and make their best, most authentic contributions to the organization? Or are you all just getting through it all, grateful to survive another day? Even the best organizations can get stuck, losing momentum and energy. In this workshop you will learn: How to identify the ways in which your organization/team is failing to thrive; How brain research reveals some surprising ways you can help your employees to be more fully engaged and inspired, and strategies for moving your organization from surviving to thriving. Facilitated by Greg Mutch, Thought-Design.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

Wed Apr 22, 2015 from 12-1 PM in Room 1247 Kirkhof Center, GVSU Allendale

Are you caring for an elderly loved one? Do you have a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease? The pressures can be wide-ranging, and touch the social, psychological, physical and economic facets of the caregiver’s life. The Alzheimer’s and Caregiver Support Group is open to the entire campus community: students, faculty and staff members, and to the public. It’s facilitated by Cindy Beel-Bates, associate professor of nursing, and Sue Sloop, Work Life Connections consultant. Join us: You don’t have to go it alone!   **Due to limited number of seats, preference will be given to GVSU employees in the event the workshop is full**

Build a Stronger Team

Tue Apr 28, 2015 from 9-11 AM in Room 103 Sneden Hall

Complete title: “Power Tools to Build a Stronger Team.” When communication decrease and conflict increases it may be time for a team-building tune-up. In this workshop we’ll explore leadership styles and discuss strategies that you, as team leaders or leaders of your own career, can personally manage conflict and enhance positive communication and collaboration in the workplace. As a team, we’ll develop communication statements that will help foster clearer dialogue and promote understanding. And we’ll explore 6 Power Tools that help build stronger teams and produce a more collaborative and constructive workplace. Facilitated by Kim Monaghan.

Organic Foods

Wed Apr 29, 2015 from 2-3 PM in Room 103 Sneden Hall

Complete title “Organic Foods-Are they safer and more nutritious?” Part of the Kent County Health Department Nutrition Series: Is it really worth spending the extra money on organic products? What is the difference between organic foods and their traditionally grown counterparts? How do you decide which is best for you when considering nutrition, quality, taste and cost? Do you know where to find locally grown produce? This presentation has all of the answers you are looking for to help you make an educated decision for yourself. Facilitated by Dawn Davies.

Celebrate with Armen Awards teams on April 24

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Mark Friday, April 24 from 3-5 p.m. on your calendar and join us for the 2015 Armen Awards Celebration. This inspiring event will feature the work of each Armen Awards team and an awards presentation. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served and GRCC parking ramp passes will be provided. RSVP is required by Monday, April 20; click here. The awards are held at the Kendall College of Art and Design.

2015 Armen Awards

Graphic designer Michelle Rose wins awards

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GRCC graphic designer Michelle Rose recently won two Addys from the American Advertising Federation of West Michigan‘s annual award show. Her pieces are currently being judged at the regional level.

She won:

  • Gold Addy and Judge’s Choice Award for Identity for her Divani Logo.
  • Silver Addy for her Lagom Meadery Logo.

Both logos can be seen in the scroll of images in this MLive article.

Be sure to congratulate Michelle the next time to you work with her on your design project!