Learn from the Best: Doug MacNeil focuses on career prep in CIS

GRCC Computers Information Systems assistant professor Doug MacNeil hopes to inspire students to continue their education long after they graduate. 

“My father was and is my hero,” MacNeil said. “He never stopped learning.” 

Before he began his long professional and educational career, MacNeil got his start at Delta College, a community college north of Saginaw. 

He now holds a doctorate in Information Technologies from Capella University and works as an enterprise agile program coach at Spectrum Health. 

“What I didn’t know starting out in my profession is how I would change as a person,” said MacNeil . “I have grown through working with people.”

MacNeil has an accomplished work history in project management, IT and education, which gives him a unique perspective into teaching others about his industry – and what works for adult learners.

“I am an advocate of bringing real life experiences into the classroom,” he said. “And even though some classes are not in person, I am able to make personal connections with my students.”

You will catch MacNeil in the classroom, online and in person, teaching CIS 100 Introduction to Computer Introduction Systems, CIS 103 Introduction to Windows and Microsoft Office, CIS 155 Microsoft Word, CIS 156 Microsoft Excel, and CIS 224 Introduction to Systems Analysis.

MacNeil has worked as an adjunct professor at four-year schools, but said he appreciates GRCC students’ varied backgrounds. Their educational journeys enrich the classroom experience.

“The students, they make this all worthwhile,” MacNeil said.

And the computer information systems certificates and degrees they are earning arm them with career preparation. Giving them the competitive advantage in today’s job market.

GRCC In the News 06/24/2022

Digital Consulting Firm Twisthink Establishing Headquarters Facility in Grand Rapids

6/23/22 michigan.gov (state press release)

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to announce that Twisthink, a global digital consulting firm, is expanding in Grand Rapids, signaling continued economic recovery and growth in Michigan. 

… The Right Place worked closely with the MEDC to ensure Twisthink continued its growth in the region. West Michigan Works! and Grand Rapids Community College also has committed to support the project with a workforce training package in 2023. Qualified candidates who are interested in joining Twisthink should visit https://twisthink.com/careers/

MSP: Man shot & killed by Allegan County deputy was pulled over for suspicion of impaired driving

6/23/22 FOX 17

MONTEREY TOWNSHIP, Mich.  — Michigan State Police say a 22-year-old man was pulled over for suspicion of impaired driving and got into a fight with a deputy before he was shot and killed.

… Nagle’s family has previously told FOX 17 that, in their eyes, the shooting didn’t make sense. According to family members, Nagle was studying to be a police officer at Grand Rapids Community College. He ultimately decided not to go into law enforcement, family says, because he didn’t like guns.

Belding’s Mason Anderson is Golfer of Year, leads All-County Team

6/24/22 Ionia Sentinel-Standard

With two top-10 finishes at state under Mason Anderson’s belt now, Belding coach Doug Anderson didn’t mince words about the senior standout’s status in the history of Belding boys golf. 

… And now, he’ll take his game to the next level at Grand Rapids Community College. Doug Anderson said the drive and motivation that has left him atop the books at Belding is something that isn’t going away, and Mason will attempt to use that to bring his game even farther along. 

Dean of STEM candidate presentations on 6/28, 6/29, 6/30

The Dean of STEM screening committee invites the campus community to attend the candidate presentations. 

The presentations are available in-person and virtually. We would encourage anyone who can attend in person to join us in ATC 168 (Auditorium). 

Candidate 1: Tuesday, June 28 from 2:00 – 3:00 pm in ATC 168 or live streamed

Candidate 2: Wednesday, June 29 from 11:00 – 12:00 pm in ATC 168 or live streamed

Candidate 3:  Thursday, June 30 from 11:00 – 12:00 pm in ATC 168 or live streamed.