President's News Burst for December 2009

2010-2016 STRATEGIC PLAN

Final review is underway on the 2010-2016 Strategic Plan. Thanks to everyone who participated in developing and reviewing the Plan as well as selecting the Vision and Mission Statements. The new Vision Statement is: “Grossmont College -- Changing lives through education.” The new Mission Statement says: “Grossmont College is committed to providing an exceptional learning environment that enables diverse individuals to pursue their hopes, dreams, and full potential and to developing enlightened leaders and thoughtful citizens for the global community.” The 2010-2016 Strategic Plan will be discussed further at the Spring 2010 Convocation and will be posted for all to see along with supporting materials at www.grossmont.edu/planning.

SPRING 2010 CONVOCATION

Mark your calendars for the Spring 2010 Professional Development Week Convocation on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Continental breakfast service will begin at 8 a.m. The program will include President’s Remarks, Introduction of New Employees and announcement of the 2009-2010 President’s Leadership Award. The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Janine Graziano-King and Dr. Rachel Singer. The title of their address is “Working with Educationally Underprepared Students: A Holistic Approach.”  Lunch and a carefully planned exercise on diversity will follow to kick-off the week.

GIFT CARDS FOR STUDENT PARENTS

The annual holiday party is approaching for CARE, EOPS and CalWORKs students. Gerardette Nutt, ext. 7785, and Lasonia Ramsey, ext. 7698, are soliciting gift cards and gift certificates for teenage children of student parents. Please bring your donation to the EOPS/CARE/CalWorks office, Room 622, by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 9. Last year’s holiday party was attended by about 100 children and their parents. The Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) program serves several hundred GC students who are single parents receiving public assistance, and are CalWORKs recipients. GC’s CalWORKs program provides instruction, counseling and support services, including job search employment preparation for students currently receiving TANF/CASH AID benefits. EOPS (Extended Opportunities Programs and Services) is a state-funded program established to recruit, enroll and retain students who are identified as economically and educationally disadvantaged.

CHILI COOK-OFF

CALLING ALL COOKS!  The 2nd annual Chili Cook-Off holiday event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 16, in the College Conference Room / Administrative Quad area. All faculty and staff are invited to collaborate and bring on the best chili for this highly competitive event.  Vegetarian entries are welcome. Beverages will be provided. Prizes will be awarded to the top two chili entries from the following categories: Spiciest/Hottest, Vegetarian and Meat. In addition, there will be one Grand Prize winner. If you plan to enter the competitive chili cook-off or plan on bringing a dessert, chili fixings or cornbread to share, please contact Bernadette Black at ext. 7100.

SPEECH AND DEBATE TEAM

Members of the Grossmont/Cuyamaca Speech and Debate Team were very successful at two recent tournaments. At the Palomar College Tournament, held Nov. 20, the team placed third in the Community College Sweepstakes Award, behind El Paso College (2nd place) and Saddleback College (1st place). At the 17th annual Griffin Speech and Debate Tournament, held Nov. 21-22, competitors included representatives from 26 colleges and universities from Boston, Texas, Wyoming and Arizona. Competition took place in 50 classrooms across the entire GC campus. Grossmont/Cuyamaca received the fourth place Overall Sweepstakes Awards, behind Orange Coast College (3rd), Mt. San Antonio College (2nd) and Point Loma Nazarene University (1st). Students who earned individual awards at the tournaments included Joe Fejeran, Vanessa Estrella, Mayte Guiterrez, Eve parker and Colton Salaz.  Congratulations to our students and to instructors Roxanne Tuscany (Grossmont) and Nancy Jennings (Cuyamaca).

THE NUTCRACKER TONIGHT AND TOMORROW

The Music Department‘s Grossmont Symphony Orchestra, in partnership with the San Diego Ballet, will present two special performances of The Nutcracker at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4, and 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5, at the East County Performing Arts Center in El Cajon. This holiday favorite features 100 costumed dancers, reveling in Tchaikovsky’s beloved score on an enchanting journey through a landscape of Yuletide dreams, including swirling snowflakes, leaping Cossacks and the lovely Sugar Plum Fairy. The production is directed and choreographed by Robin Sheretz-Morgan and Javier Velasco. The conductor of the Grossmont Symphony Orchestra is Dr. Randall Tweed. Premium tickets are priced at $52 per person. Standard tickets are priced at $42 for adults, $40 for students and active military, and $22 for students. Tickets can be purchased online at www.grossmontsymphony.org, or by phone at (619) 440-2277.

JAZZ CONCERTS

The Music Department will present “Jazz Night,” an evening of student performances and a special guest appearance by the musical group of Cannon/Kenyatta Project, starting at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 6, in Room 220. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for students, seniors and children. Cannon/Kenyatta Project is led by trumpet player Derek Cannon, co-chairman of the Music Department at Grossmont College, and pianist Kamau Kenyatta.

On Thursday, Dec.  10, at the Cuyamaca College Arts Center auditorium, the Music Department’s Jazz Ensemble will perform a holiday program starting at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 10, at the Cuyamaca College Arts Center auditorium. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Also performing will be Jazz Xpress, a notable local group under the direction of Stan Lawrence. The Grossmont Jazz Ensemble is under the direction of Paul Kurokawa, co-chairman of the Music Department. The Jazz Ensemble also is scheduled to perform for holiday shoppers on Thursday evening, Dec. 17, at the Horton Plaza retail center in Downtown San Diego.

  

“BREAKING BOUNDARIES” THIS WEEKEND

The Dance Department will present “Breaking Boundaries,” a performance by choreographer students demonstrating various genres of dance, at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4 and 5, and at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 5 and 6. Performances will be held at the Stagehouse Theatre. Admission is $12 per person and $10 for military, seniors, students and children under age 12. Tickets are available at the door. For information, phone Stephanie Butticci, GC dance instructor, at ext. 7766, or visit www.grossmont.edu/dance.

ADULT REENTRY PROGRAM ON TUESDAY

The Adult Reentry Program will host “Your Turning Point is Now,” a free informational orientation for new, returning and continuing adult students interested in retraining for new jobs and careers, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 10, in Griffin Gate. The meeting is designed for students who have had a break in their formal education or need an update of skills or career transition. Speakers will include former students who successfully returned to the classroom, along with information on admission and registration procedures, transfer programs and financial aid. For more information, phone Nancy Davis at ext. 7615 or Susan Esparza at ext. 7697, or visit www.grossmont.edu/adultreentry.

CONCERT BAND PERFORMANCE

The Grossmont College Concert Band will perform at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13, at the Cuyamaca College Performing Arts Theatre. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for students, seniors and children. The Concert Band features many different kinds of brass, woodwind and percussion instruments. It is comparable to an orchestra without the strings. The Concert Band is under the direction of Russell Sperling.

DAVID WING PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT

The Hyde Art Gallery will continue its exhibit of photographs from David Wing through Dec. 17. The installation is titled “Mental Mapping: Photographs in Context.” According to Ben Aubert, Gallery Curator, ambiguity is very much in abundance throughout the exhibition. Even within the “Artist’s Statement,” Mr. Wing solidifies the stream of humor that meanders across the surfaces of much of his work. Much like the events of our individual lives, David Wing’s art keeps us wondering about it all.

FOOTBALL SEASON SUMMARY

The Grossmont College Football players, coaches and athletic department staff would like to say “thank you” to the College Administration, Faculty and Staff for your continued support. The 2009 season ended on a high note as the Griffins beat perennial powerhouse, El Camino College in the U.S. Bank “Beach Bowl” 27-22 on Saturday, Nov. 21. Both teams ended the season with 8 wins and only 3 losses. The Griffins victory added to their tremendous tradition of successes. Grossmont has posted the best winning percentage of all the other 71 teams in California over the past decade. The Griffs have not had a losing season in 12 years, and the team has participated in more post season games than any other college in the nation over the past 15 years.

UPCOMING EVENTS

      Phi Theta Kappa Induction Ceremony, Sat., Dec. 5, 6 p.m., Room #220.

      Grossmont Guitar Ensemble, Wed., Dec. 9, 2:30 p.m., Room #221.

      Fred Benedetti and Peter Sprague guitar concert, Friday, Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m., Room #220.

      Nursing Pinning Ceremony, Wed., Dec. 16, 2 p.m., Student Center.

      Corrections Academy Graduation, Friday, Dec. 18, 6 p.m., Student Center.

President's News Burst for November 2009

Budget Update

There are still rumors and rumblings floating around that a mid-year give-back may occur this fiscal year. According to the state’s recent Debt Affordability Report, the State General Fund from 2010-11 through 2012-13 will have a cumulative, structural deficit of $38 billion. What this means to us locally is unless state revenues exceed expectations we should anticipate further state budget reductions over the next two years as they work to balance the budget.  As we begin to look towards the next fiscal year we are assuming a flat (or worse) state budget, no federal back-fill dollars and no repeat of one-time savings that were the result of restrained spending. Unfortunately, our status of living with reduced budgets, lower staffing levels and record enrollment will continue. I wish I had better news. However, I am still so very grateful for all of your individual efforts during these challenging times. Our collective efforts will be required to weather this storm and so I look forward to your continued cooperation, collaboration, and communication.

Accreditation

An Accreditation Steering Committee will begin working soon on our mid-term report that is due October 15, 2010. This report will discuss the progress we have made during the past three years. The Committee will focus on four Standards, including: #1. Institutional Mission & Effectiveness; #2. Instructional Programs, Student Support Services, Library and Learning Support Services; #3. Human Resources, Physical Resources, Technology Resources, Financial Resources; and #4. Leadership & Governance.

Surveys

WE WANT YOUR VOTE!  Watch for a quick survey arriving in your e-mail soon asking for your selection for a vision and mission statement for GC. Your input would be greatly appreciated as we finalize our strategic plan. Meanwhile, all employees will receive soon another survey on Grossmont College Working Relationships. The results of this survey will be included in our Accreditation reports. It is scheduled to be available the week of November 16. It will ask your opinion about working relationships across the College and District for the benefit of our students. In addition, Sodexo is conducting a survey on its services to students, faculty and staff.

H1N1 Update

As part of our ongoing efforts to plan for, monitor and respond to H1N1 influenza, we are continuing to monitor flu reports, including student/employee absences and suspected cases, through our supervisors and our Health Services Office. We are continuing to keep a vigilant eye on our college community to minimize the risk and implement various options in the event of confirmed cases. Among recent activities: hand sanitizers have been set up in public areas across campus; preventive information has been made available through e-mail and the college website; and coordination is continuing with the County Health Office.  The Academic Senate has been central to planning continuation of class operations, grade transmission and other aspects of college recovery in the unlikely event of a pandemic closure.
GC has ordered and is expecting to receive an adequate number of doses of H1N1 vaccine very soon. Still unknown at this time is when the H1N1 vaccine will be available to Health Services at Grossmont College. Soon after we have the vaccine on hand we are planning to make the vaccine widely available. So, we expect there will be opportunities on campus to get individuals in our campus community vaccinated. Please be assured that we are monitoring the ever-changing landscape of the H1N1 approach and are utilizing planning and resource information provided by the San Diego Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Meanwhile, if you have symptoms of high fever, cough, aches, nausea and dizziness, stay home until you are no longer contagious. Please stay away from others during your period of illness and do not return to school until your fever is gone (without fever reducing drugs) for at least 24 hours.  Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands often with soap and water and cover your cough. To prevent illness, stay away from others who are sick.

To know more about what to do about the flu, visit www.flu.gov. If you have questions or concerns, please call or visit Student Health Services on campus. For more information, visit the college website at www.grossmont.edu, or call 668-1718 (the Grossmont Health Services Information Line) or the County Office of Public Health at www.sdcounty.ca.gov  or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at http://www.cdc.gov/flu>.

Academic Senate

Our Academic Senate representatives are planning to attend a statewide Academic Senate meeting next week to discuss several resolutions. Among the discussion topics: Early Assessment Program implementation, Institutional Review Boards and Minimum Equivalencies for Faculty. In addition, the Academic Senate has formed a General Educational Taskforce to take a look at the GE package. This Taskforce was recommended by the Curriculum Committee.

Summer 2010

The latest plans for the Summer 2010 semester call for offering one six-week session, with classes offered Monday through Thursday. In a handful of exceptions, a few eight-week-long classes may be held. Fewer classes will be held in Summer 2010 compared to Summer 2009.

  

Future Construction

Watch for more details in the next few months, but you should be aware that during the 2010-2011 year, the campus will be challenged with several construction projects, including the gutting of the Administration Building and rebuilding of a new Student Center. Several administrative offices will be temporarily relocated in trailers. Construction will be funded by the Proposition R bond measure that East County voters approved in 2002.

50th Anniversary

A 50th Anniversary Celebration Planning Committee has been formed. At a recent meeting, the Committee reviewed Event Guidelines for 50th Anniversary Celebration and the Planning Committee’s Charge, Mission and Composition. This committee is charged with recommending to the College leadership a year-long (2010-2011 academic year) series of campus and community celebratory events.  Effective outreach strategies and event planning specifics will help our efforts be successful in appropriately celebrating Grossmont College’s 50th anniversary of educational service to the community and generating continued support for our college. The mission of the Celebration is to reconnect with the community, reconnect with alumni and retirees and build support for the future. It is the Committee’s goal that each regularly scheduled campus event during 2010-2011 include a 50th-related focus. Many great ideas are being considered by the committee so please send us your great ideas via Rick Griffin. 

Safety & Awareness Week

Grossmont College Student Services and the Associated Students will present Safety & Awareness Week, Nov. 16-19. Helpful information about personal health and safety awareness will be available. The schedule includes:

Monday, Nov. 16

• Recognizing the Preventing Violence on Campus for Students, 10-11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m., ASGC Board Room.
• Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse, 1-2:30 p.m., Griffin Gate.

Tuesday, Nov. 17

• Recognizing the Preventing Violence on Campus for Students, 10-11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m., ASGC Board Room.
• Information on Smoking Cessation and Alcohol Abuse Awareness & Prevention, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Main Quad.

Wednesday, Nov. 18

• Recognizing and Preventing Violence on Campus for Students, 10-11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m., ASGC Board Room.
• Recognizing and Preventing Violence in the Workplace, 11:30-12:30 p.m., ASGC Board Room.
• Driver Safety and the Dangers of Cell Phone & Texting, 1-1:40 p.m., Griffin Gate.
• Fire Safety, 1:50-2:30 p.m., Griffin Gate
• Health Services Info Table, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Main Quad.

Thursday, Nov. 19

• Great American Smokeout, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Main Quad.
• The view of “April Showers,” a film about the Columbine shootings and how one victim survived. Filmmaker Andrew Robinson is expected to attend; starts at 6:30 pm Student Center.

Fork It Over For Kids

Twelve GC culinary students participated in a recent fund-raising event at the Salvation Army’s Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center. The event, called “Fork It Over For Kids,” featured Sam the Cooking Guy. Our students performed a variety of tasks, including greeting the food vendors and assisting with set-up, cooking the menu items of Sam the Cooking Guy for the VIPs, preparing and serving hot appetizers and dessert, and assisting Sam on stage. Our students were highly praised as “professional, organized, skilled and pleasant.”

  

Student Affairs Office Announcement

Beginning December 1^st, the Student affairs office at GC will have uninterrupted service from 8:00 am – 9:00 pm.  Gwen House will relocate to the Student Affairs office and will serve as the receptionist from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.  What this means is that evening dean functions will not be available in the deanery area but rather in the Student Affairs just to the left of the main entrance into the student center. 

Our thoughts go out to the family of Kyrstin Gemar

The entire Grossmont College family lost a wonderful student-athlete and our community lost a smiling young lady with the passing this week of former GC softball team standout Kyrstin Gemar. Our thoughts and prayers are extended to her parents, Lenny and Claire Gemar. Krystin played on the GC softball team in 2006 and 2007 (team captain, MVP, consecutive conference championships) before transferring to Dickinson State University in Dickinson, North Dakota. On Sunday night, Nov. 1, Kyrstin and two friends apparently went star gazing. They were found dead on Tuesday, Nov. 3, in a vehicle pulled from a pond. Krystin was 22. A public memorial service is expected to be held on the campus softball field and is tentatively scheduled for Saturday November 14 at 11 am. 

Upcoming Events

      Howie Hawver Birthday Party, 1-4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 8, Main Quad. Menu includes hamburgers, hot dogs and cake. Music by Footloose. Hawver is the only head coach the Grossmont College women’s soccer program has ever had. In the past 14 seasons, his teams have made 12 state playoff appearances. Hawver is currently battling ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

      Grossmont Master Chorale, 2 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 8, St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 7710 El Cajon Blvd., La Mesa.

      Sylvia by Grossmont College Theatre Arts Department, Nov. 11, 12, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21 at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 14 and 21 at 2 p.m., Lab Theatre. Directed by Henry J. Jordan. Sylvia is a dog and she has found a new home with Greg and Kate. As the affection between Greg and Sylvia grows stronger, a stronger resentment increases between Kate and her husband and his new best friend, Sylvia. All works out in the end; but he journey, at critical points in the characters’ lives, makes for a delightful experience in the theatre.

      Movie with Arabic Club, 12:30-2 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 12, Griffin Gate. “The Mother of the Bride” with English subtitles.

      Mental Mapping, Photographs in Context, Nov. 16 to Dec. 17, Hyde Art Gallery.

      Grossmont Guitar Ensemble, 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 18, Room 221.

      Financial Aid Scholarship Fund-raising BBQ, 11:30 a.m., Friday, Nov. 20, Main Quad.

      Grossmont Master Chorale, 7:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 20, All Saints Episcopal Church, 625 Pennsylvania Ave., San Diego.

      17th annual Griffin Speech and Debate Tournament, Nov. 21-22. The headquarters will be in the Student Center, but the competition will take place in 50 classrooms across the entire campus. About 20 colleges, both two-year and four-year schools, are expected to attend.

      Grossmont Master Chorale, 2 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 22, St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in La Mesa.

      Breaking Boundaries, Grossmont College Dance Dept., Dec. 3, 4, 5 at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 5 and 6 at 2 p.m., Stagehouse Theatre.

      Chili Cook-off/Year-end celebration, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 16, Administrative Quad and College Conference Room.

President's News Burst for October 2009

THANK YOU!

As you know this has been one of the most challenging years for public higher education in the state of California.  Each day we hit new highs and new lows.  The highs include record high numbers of students that we are serving and record high financial aid forms filled out by our students.  The lows include staffing levels and dollars to support instruction and essential services to our students.   But through it all, Grossmont College continues to “stand and deliver” even through these most challenging of times. 

Every opportunity I get, I want to thank you for your tireless service to our college and to our students.  Without you and your support, we would not be able to accomplish all that we do on behalf of our students and our community.  Thank you for your determination and heroism on the front lines. With an attitude of excellence, enthusiasm and loyal teamwork, you have put forth the effort in service to students and to one another. And, your efforts continue to produce significant achievements and change lives.

  

EXPANSION PLANS FOR THE SUMMIT NEWSPAPER

Now available in newsstands across campus is the Fall semester’s first issue of The Summit, Grossmont College’s student newspaper. According to Dr. Wayne Towers, newspaper advisor, a twice-a-month publishing schedule is planned. Efforts are underway to increase advertising, which will increase the size of the paper. In addition, GC’s Media Communications Dept. has adopted a new generation, cross-media journalistic approach that will result in wider distribution of the school newspaper, along with other news delivery content created by GC students this semester. A new website, currently under construction, is planned to feature an online PDF version of The Summit, including archived issues and a readers blog for opinionated comments, along with digital TV magazine programming that will be written and produced by students enrolled in the new Broadcast Journalism class (MCOM 299). This integrated effort is bringing together GC students concentrating in video, audio, digital media and photography. Local new-media experts in the community, some of whom helped grow SignOnSanDiego, are advising GC with ideas.

REVIEW OF 6 YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN UNDERWAY

Review has begun by campus constituencies of the 2010-2016 Grossmont College Strategic Plan. The Plan sets out ambitious six-year goals and strategic directions that the college will pursue as it responds to the changing educational needs of the community. The Plan focuses the college’s commitment on its community, students, and employees by encouraging new thinking and efforts to help Grossmont College address the dynamic educational, economic, civic and workforce needs of the region. Through a collegial planning process, the college has refined goals and strategies to reflect the most current assessment of needs and opportunities facing the East San Diego County region. The Plan includes results from an institutional SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) assessment, as well as proposed vision statements, mission statements and value statements. The Plan also identifies five major strategic planning areas of focus for the next six years, including Student Access, Learning and Student Success, Fiscal and Physical Resources, Economic and Community Development and Value and Support of Employees. The Strategic Plan, along with appendices and an area for comments, can be viewed on the Intranet at http://www.grossmont.edu/intranet/strategicReport/default.htm.

OUR NEXT ACCREDITATION REPORT

Our Follow-up Report to the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) was submitted to meet the Oct. 15 deadline. Now, work will begin on our Midterm Accreditation Report, which is due October 2010. Selection of a Steering Committee is beginning and the report should be ready for collegial consultation in Spring 2010.  You can read our current Follow-Up Report on the intranet at

http://www.grossmont.edu/intranet/accreditation0409/0809AccredFollowUpReportDraft.pdf.

  

PRESIDENT’S LEADERSHIP AWARD

As a reminder, nominations for the President’s Leadership award are due to the President’s Office by Friday, Oct. 16. This award will be presented during the Spring 2010 flex week and at a special recognition ceremony in May 2010. We encourage each of you to consider nominating an outstanding member of our college community for this award. The President’s Leadership Award was established to recognize leadership in service to students, faculty and staff, and to encourage continuation of that excellence. Nominations of full-time administrative staff and other individuals in leadership positions at Grossmont College may be submitted by any member of the college community who has personal and direct knowledge of the nominee’s work, and who can comment on the unique and outstanding characteristics in support of the nominee’s excellent service to students, faculty and staff.

ART FACULTY EXHIBITION

We are pleased to announce this year’s Art Faculty Exhibition, opening on October 5th and closing on October 29th. This 2009 mixed media show features both a very diverse and outstanding selection of work. The art is representative of the various disciplines that exist within the Grossmont College Art Department: photography, jewelry, painting and drawing, ceramics and sculpture. Selected pieces are available for sale. The exhibition is free and open to the public. An Opening Event will be on Tuesday, October 6, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Gallery’s hours are Monday & Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday & Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. we are CLOSED Friday to Sunday & Legal Holidays. Admission is free. The Gallery is located in Building #25 in the 200 area quad across “Café 200.” Questions please call extension 7299.

WEB STAFF DIRECTORY

The Web Staff Directory can be assessed by visiting www.grossmont.edu/intranet/staffdir. If you want your photo included, and if your photograph has not yet been taken, please contact our college photographer Stephen Harvey (ext. 7377) for an individual appointment. In addition, photo sessions can be scheduled so that entire departments can be photographed at the same sitting.

GOVERNING BOARD POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

As a reminder, the Governing Board adopts various Board Policies and Administrative Procedures that are available for review on the District website. The categories include Chancellor, General Institution, Academic Affairs, Student Services, Board Policies, Business and Fiscal Affairs and Human Resources. The topics vary from Ethics and Conflict of Interest to Disaster Preparedness and Workplace Safety. To view the Governing Board Policies and Procedures, visit http://www.gcccd.edu/governingboard/policies-and-procedures.asp.

E-MAIL ETIQUETTE

Please be sensitive to the backgrounds and perceptions of others when forwarding e-mails to a group of other employees. Reserve the “Reply to All” for instances where everyone must hear the response . In many cases, replying to the sender alone may be sufficient.  If someone asks you to refrain from forwarding e-mails to them, try not to take it personally and see if you can accommodate them. Be careful when forwarding e-mails on political or controversial issues -- the recipient may not appreciate your point of view or may be offended by the content.   Also, don’t forget that there is no such thing as a private e-mail.

BUY YOUR TICKETS TO THE GALA

The Grossmont College Foundation’s 2009 Dinner Gala and Auction fund-raiser will be held on Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino. Don’t miss this spectacular event. Festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a reception and silent auction, followed by dinner starting at 7 p.m., live auction and live entertainment.. The theme for the 2009 Gala, the eighth annual, is “Reaching New Heights With You.” The theme reflects the Foundation’s partnership with the community in assisting the college’s efforts to reach “new heights” in educational excellence, workforce training, scholarship programs and an endless array of new opportunities for students. Division and departments are encouraged to buy a table and sit with colleagues. Significantly discounted tickets are available for GC faculty, staff and administrators. In addition, everyone is invited to donate silent auction items, including gift certificates for merchandise and professional services. Proceeds again will benefit student scholarships and under-funded programs at Grossmont College. A donation to the Grossmont College Foundation directly supports students through scholarships, educational equipment and supplies, educational programs and improvements to activities. For more information about tickets, sponsorship and donation opportunities, contact Alexis Popko at the Grossmont College Foundation office at (619) 644-7109, or via e-mail at grossmont.foundation@gcccd.edu, or visit www.grossmont.edu/foundation.

BLOOD DRIVE RESULTS

At a recent two-day blood drive held Sept. 8 and 9 in the Main Quad, the San Diego Blood Bank collected a total of 88 pints, representing 176 saved lives. The number of donors who responded was 56 on the first day and 60 on the second day. The next blood drive will be held Nov. 3 and 4.

H1N1 VIRUS UPDATE

Preparation and Monitoring

In preparation for flu season, numerous stations have been set up in public areas across campus to dispense alcohol-based hand sanitizers.  Preventive information has been made available through email and the college's website.  Monitoring of flu-like symptoms on campus affecting employees as well as students has been compiled through supervisors through central locations on campus.  Student illnesses have been monitored through student health services on each campus.

Additionally, in preparation for flu season, County Public Health Officials  recommend two different types of vaccines:  The general  seasonal flu vaccine which is currently available to the public and the H1N1 vaccine (not yet available).  The H1N1 vaccine is anticipated to arrive to healthcare providers in October and early indications are that only one dose of the H1N1 vaccine will be required for protection. 

Avoiding contact with sick people will limit transmission of the flu which commonly occurs via airborne and droplet transmission as well as contact transmission. Additionally, wash hands frequently with soap and water or, if necessary, alcohol-based hand sanitizer.  Keeping hands away from your face and keeping work stations clean are all important steps to avoiding the flu. 

H1N1 Mitigation

If you have flu-like symptoms (fever greater than 100 degrees, cough and/or sore throat), stay home from work or school.  Be sure to have critical phone numbers with you so that you can inform your supervisor of your absence.

While ill, keep away from others, stay home, cover coughs and sneezes (with an elbow or shoulder), get plenty of rest and drink ample amounts of clear liquids to hydrate.  Stay home until the fever has gone away for 24 hours (without fever reducing drugs).  Healthcare workers are encouraged to remain home for 7 days or until symptoms are gone plus one day.

Monitoring employee’s health will allow for special housekeeping precautions to be taken in areas or units where transmission of the flu is significant.  Encouraging students to stay home when ill, will also be crucial to prevent the spread of the flu. 

County Health Officials indicate that medical assistance should be sought if you are pregnant or suffer from complicating health conditions.  Emergency care is warranted if the sick person has chest pain or difficulty in breathing, is vomiting and unable to keep fluids down, is dehydrated, has seizures or is not responding normally.

Continuity of Operations

If you are ill and unable to come to work, please follow the normal procedures for calling in the illness and state that you may be experiencing flu-like symptoms. 

The Academic Senate will be considering measures that faculty might take to ensure the integrity of coursework during times of significant student or faculty absence.  The reassurance from faculty and staff and willingness to assist students in returning back to class when they are well will assist in preventing the spread of the flu.

At this time, according to County Health Officials, it is unlikely that entire campus closure will result from sporadic cases of H1N1 which have been considered mild, to date.  However, if the severity of illness or number of cases in  particular location warrant, new guidelines may be issued which might change the County Health protocols. 

Information Pertinent to Students

If you receive inquiries from students, please share with them the following critical information and refer them to the website, below, or student health services for more specific information. 

• To prevent illness, stay away from sick people.  County Public Health Officials recommend obtaining both the seasonal flu vaccine available now and the H1N1 vaccine to become available in October. 
• If you have flu-like symptoms (fever greater than 100 degrees, cough and/or sore throat), stay home from school and contact your professors by phone or email.  Inquire about how you might continue your studies in the course as you are able. 
• Please stay away from others during your period of illness and do not return to school until your fever is gone (without fever reducing drugs) for at least 24 hours.
• If you have questions or concerns, please call or visit students health services on campus.

For More Information

Please visit college/district website at www.grossmont.edu  / www.gcccd.edu

County Office of Public Health at www.sdcounty.ca.gov  

Centers for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov/flu

  

UPCOMING EVENTS

      The Theatre Arts Department will present “The Tempest,” William Shakespeare’s magical and mystical tale of fantasy, at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, and at 2 p.m. on Oct. 10 and 17 at the Stagehouse Theatre. The classic play creates a storm of intrigue, romance and comedy when the survivors of a sorcerer’s chaotic spell interact with the denizens of an enchanted island. The play is directed by Grossmont College Theatre Arts professor Beth Duggan. Admission is $10 per person and $9 for military and seniors. The box office will be open one hour prior to all performances.

      The Culinary Arts Dept. will host on Thursday evenings a five-course dinner prepared by Grossmont culinary students enrolled in Grossmont’s “Quantity Foods” class. Cost is $15 per person. Funds will help raise money for travel expenses for students to compete in state and national culinary competitions, as well as maintain kitchen equipment and purchase supplies. The dinners will feature an appetizer (soup or salad), intermezzo (palate cleanser), entree, dessert and coffee service. Vegetarian meals also are available. Dinner service will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29, Nov. 5 and 19, at the college’s Culinary Arts patio dining area near the Student Center. Reservations can be made by phoning Michele Martens at extension 7550 or 7549, or by e-mail. Space is limited and some dates may already be full. 

      The Creative Writing Program will host poet Rae Armantrout at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, in Griffin Gate. Admission is free. Armantrout is a professor of writing, poetry and poetics in the Department of Literature at the University of California, San Diego. She has taught writing at UCSD for nearly 20 years, and directed the New Writing Series at UCSD since 1989.

      A Play about 9 Iraqi Women:  The Mo'elelo Performing Arts Company of San Diego is presenting a  Play entitled "9 Parts of Desire " about 9 Iraqi women living in Baghdad, London and New York.  There is a performance on October 11, at 2:00 which will be followed by a post-discussion on the Interpretations of the Role of Women in Islam with Dr. Ghada Osman, the Director of the Center for Islamic and Arabic Studies at San Diego State University. If you like to go, send Sonia Ghattas-Soliman an e-mail, as soon as possible.  For more information about the location, the play and the prices, go to http://electrictemple.net/stage.php?id_stg=15.

      September 26-October 3, Banned Books Week

      October 2, Women’s Volleyball v. SD City, @ SD City, 5 p.m.

      October 2,3, Women’s Water Polo, SD Mesa Classic Tournament, @ SD Mesa.

      October 3, Football v. Palomar, @ Escondido High School, 1 p.m.

      October 7, College Transfer Day, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., @ Main Quad

      October 7, Women’s Soccer v. Miramar, @ Miramar, 3:15 p.m.

      October 7, Men’s Water Polo v. Southwestern, @ Southwestern, 3:15 p.m.

      October 7, Women’s Volleyball v. SD Mesa, @ SD Mesa, 5 p.m.

      October 7, Women’s Water Polo v. Southwestern, @ Southwestern, 2 p.m.

      October 9, Women’s Soccer v. Southwestern, @ Grossmont, 1 p.m.

      October 9, 10, Men’s Water Polo, Citrus/Chaffey Tournament, @ Citrus

      October 9, Women’s Volleyball v. Cuyamaca, @ Cuyamaca 5 p.m.

      October 10, Football v. Long Beach, @ Griffins Stadium, 1 p.m.

      October 10, Women’s Cross Country, Brubaker Invitational, @ Irvine Park

      October 14, Women’s Soccer v. Cuyamaca, @ Cuyamaca, 3:15 p.m.

      October 15, Women’s Water Polo v. SD Mesa, @ Joan Kroc, 1 p.m.

      October 16, GC Child Development Center, 10-year anniversary, 12:30-2:30 p.m.

      October 17, California Teachers of English To Speakers of Other Languages, Regional Conference, @ Grossmont College.

      October 19-23, Career Week.

      October 20, Governing Board, Griffin Gate, 6:30 p.m.

President's News Burst for September 2009

THANK YOU!

Nothing would be more fitting than for the first words of the fall 2009 semester in our electronic newsletter to be THANK YOU!  I want to say how grateful I am for the untiring spirit, commitment and dedication of each and every one of our employees.  I know that these are very challenging times for us, we reduced budgets and personnel and increased numbers of students.  We face new territory every day.  I know that your classes are larger and that the students you serve seem even more stressed than the usual academic stress.  Given all that, I never cease to be amazed by the positive, can-do attitude that I see and hear from you.  I appreciate your commitment and your good work on behalf of our students. 

  

ENROLLMENT UPDATE

Below are enrollment comparisons as of September4 for Fall 2009 as compared to Fall 2008.  As the table below shows, we are up nearly 12% in headcount while our section counts were reduced by 8% and our classroom rill rates are at 94%!

	Fall 2009	Fall 2008	Count Variance	% Variance
Headcount	20,450	18,273	+2,177	+11.9%
Units	180,681.5	163,402.0	+17,279.5	+10.6%
#  of Sections	1,738	1,885	-147	-7.8%

BUDGET NEWS

After the budget damage has been done by the Sacramento lawmakers, we’re now doing our best to deal with the consequences. We’re living through a perfect storm: fewer state dollars for education, fewer students accepted to UC and CSU, fewer classes due to state budget cuts, and higher enrollment with fewer dollars. In addition, we’re seeing more adults return to school due to the bad economy. In fact, for the 2008-2009 academic year, enrollment at the state’s 110 community colleges skyrocketed to 2.9 million, a 4.9 percent increase compared to 2007-2008, according to the State Chancellor’s Office. However, as we face sustained budget deficits, our commitment is stronger than ever to protect core programs and preserve as many classes as possible in the areas of transfer, career technical education, and basic skills. I am proud that the tough times have not stopped our faculty, staff and administrators from providing as many students as possible with a quality and affordable education. Yes, we are trying to work miracles by using miniscule budgets to provide quality education and workforce training. Unfortunately, I am fearful that the current divestment in higher education may severely impair California for years to come and undermine the state’s economic recovery.

  

ACCREDITATION REPORT

Our Follow-up Report to the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), due on Oct. 15, is scheduled for review and approval by the Governing Board at their Sept. 8 meeting. In January 2008, we received seven recommendations based on our college’s self-study and October 2007 site visit. Our first Follow-up Report was submitted Oct. 15, 2008. This current Follow-Up Report addresses recommendations dealing with diversity, the selection and evaluation of the college president, Governing Board self-evaluation and District relations among the various constituency groups. You can read our Follow-Up Report on the intranet at

http://www.grossmont.edu/intranet/accreditation0409/0809AccredFollowUpReportDraft.pdf.

  

2010-2016 STRATEGIC PLAN

A draft of our 2010-2016 Grossmont College Strategic Plan is being readied for review. Circulation through collegial consultation will begin later this month. The Plan represents the goals and strategic directions that we will pursue to respond to the changing educational needs of the East San Diego region. The Plan was developed during 2008-2009, and started with research on the demographics of the community, students and college performed by the GCCCD Institutional Research office. Teams of college employees scanned the horizon for future trends likely to impact our community and college within the next 3-5 years and those emerging trends along with an analysis of our Strengths/Weakness/Opportunities/Threats (SWOT) were also included.  All of this and our all-college vision activity during Spring 2009 Convocation were compiled and reviewed during our Leadership Planning Retreat last April.  Review of the Plan is scheduled by Academic Senate, Classified Senate, Student Services Council, Instructional Administrative Council, Administrative Services Council, Planning and Resources Council, Leadership Council, ADSOC, and President’s Cabinet. I invite your input so look for an opportunity soon to review the electronic version of the plan or be part of a discussion.

  

GROSSMONT COLLEGE SELECTED AS MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL

Grossmont College has been selected as a Military Friendly School by G.I. Jobs magazine. Criteria for selection as a Military Friendly School involves an ongoing effort to recruit and retain students with military experience, including having qualified personnel available on campus to accommodate military veterans interested in higher education. Schools on the list range from state universities and private colleges to community colleges and trade schools. The common bond is their shared priority of assisting veterans with their educational goals and recruiting students with military experience. The national list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities, community colleges and trade schools which are doing the most to embrace America’s veterans as students. Grossmont’s selection as a Military Friendly School comes at a time when financial aid for tuition, textbooks and housing is available through the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill. According to the Student Veteran Organization of Grossmont College (www.svogrossmont.org), more than 600 military veterans are currently attending Grossmont in Fall 2009 with the support of their veterans benefits, an increase from about 470 veterans who were enrolled in the Spring 2009 semester.

  

COST $AVING RECOMMENDATIONS

Due to budgets cuts, we can all do our part to reduce energy consumption. Together, we can lower our energy bill, which will redirect dollars into other areas. Everyone is encouraged to follow these simple steps:

·         Turn off your office and classroom lights when you are not in the room.

·         Utilize the natural light if educationally appropriate, especially in the 500 Building classrooms which are equipped with skylights.

·         Keep your classroom and office doors closed when the A/C is on. This allows the mechanical system to operate more efficiently (we can’t afford to try to air condition all of El Cajon).

·         Turn off computers and printers when not in use, over the weekends, and break periods. Remove any unneeded appliances such as coffee makers, refrigerators, toasters and space heaters.

To reduce on printing costs:

·         Print the first page of your document on colored paper and the rest on white instead of using colored paper for multiple page documents.

·         Print your documents double-sided whenever possible.

·         Reduce duplicating requests to save paper.

·         Post documents online instead of distributing them in class.

·         Limit supply requests.

  

ANNUAL FALL SCHOLASRHIP AWARDS BREAKFAST

The annual Fall Scholarship Awards Breakfast will be held on Saturday, September 12 in the Student Center.  The program begins at 10:00 a.m. presented by the Grossmont College Foundation and Grossmont College Scholarship Department.  These scholarships are competitive and based on a selection process established by the Grossmont College Scholarship Advisory Committee and any additional criteria established by the sponsor.  In all, 48 students will be awarded scholarships that exceed $32,000.  For the first time, 13 recipients will be Osher scholars, with each one receiving $1,000.  The Grossmont College Foundation is participating in a fund-raising challenge for scholarships in perpetuity with the Bernard Osher Foundation of San Francisco, which is offering Grossmont College – along with every one of California’s 110 community colleges – a 50% match ($1 for every $2 raised prior to June 30, 2011).  Grossmont Osher Scholars were selected based on financial need.  Scholarship funds will be used to help defray the cost of textbooks, equipment, lab fees and other items beyond registration.

  

WEB STAFF DIRECTORY

The Web Staff Directory can be assessed by visiting www.grossmont.edu/intranet/staffdir. If you want your photo included, and if your photograph has not yet been taken, please contact our college photographer Stephen Harvey (ext. 7377) for an individual appointment. In addition, shooting can be scheduled so that entire departments can be shot all at the same sitting.

FLU SEASON IS HERE

We are closely keeping an eye on national, state and county flu preparations for this year. We are preparing for contingencies in the event of a campus-wide outbreak or recognition of a serious influenza threat. The college has been tracking student and employee illness since the spring outbreak.  We will pass along more information about flu vaccinations and other preparations as reliable information is available to us. 

The following information may be helpful as you respond to issues and concerns from students or other employees.

ü  Please encourage those students and employees who are sick with flu-like symptoms to stay at home and seek medical attention as their situation and medical history warrant.

ü  The college is continuing to track student absences through the Health Services office to monitor any possible instances of H1N1 flu.

ü  If you know of students who have been ill or absent with flu-like symptoms, please contact Health Services with the name of the individual for tracking. Please inform students that if they are confirmed to be ill, they should report to our Health Services area to be “cleared” of illness.

ü  If students are present in your class and complain of flu-like symptoms, please refer them to our Health Services area (located in the administrative area, building 10, next to the Counseling Office).

ü  Everyone should be washing their hands frequently and also using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.

ü  Hand sanitizing stations are available around campus public areas.

ü  Recommend that students check the college website for updates or call the flu line at 619.668.1718 or x1718 from campus for helpful information.

Thank you for your time and for assisting us in serving our students and safeguarding their health.

  

RECENT HONORS

v  Patricia Morrison, Library Dept. co-chair, had an article published in the August 2009 issue of “The Academic Author,” a newsletter published by the Text and Academic Authors Association (TAA). The article was entitled “Librarian: Prevent Junk Overload When Surfing Net.” TAA is a membership associated dedicated to assisting textbook and academic authors.

v  Bob Yarris, Adjunct Instructor, Health Professions, has been named to the First 5 San Diego Commission’s Technical and Professional Advisory Committee. First 5 San Diego oversees early childhood programs. The Committee advises the Commission about community needs, existing resources, research and best practices. Over the past three years, First 5 San Diego has awarded $67 million for programs serving young children from prenatal stage through five years of age.

DISCOUNTED TICKETS AVAILABLE TO GROSSMONT COLLEGE FOUNDATION GALA

It’s not too early to buy your tickets to attend this year’s Grossmont College Foundation Gala to be held on Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino. Festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a reception and silent auction, followed by dinner starting at 7 p.m., live auction and live entertainment. The 2009 theme is “Reaching New Heights With You.” The theme reflects the college’s partnership with the community that assists in the college’s efforts to reach “new heights” in educational excellence, workforce training, scholarship programs and an endless array of new opportunities for students. Proceeds will benefit important student scholarships and under-funded programs at Grossmont College. Tickets begin at $200 per person, however, GC faculty, staff and administrators pay only $93.75 which is a 53% savings.  All major credit cards are accepted. For reservations, contact Alexis Popko at the Foundation office, (619) 644-7109.

  

ANNOUNCEMENTS

      The Grossmont Griffins football team opened the 2009 season on Saturday evening with a game against San Diego Mesa. The game was played at Cathedral Catholic High School in Del Mar due to field readiness issues at Mesa College. An intra-squad scrimmage was held last Friday, Aug. 28.

      The Fall 2009 service hours for Student Health Services is 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Fridays. For emergencies when the office is closed, contact Campus Police at (619) 644-7654.

      Student Health Services will host a Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 8, and Wednesday, Sept. 9, in the Main Quad.

      The San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce is hosting an E-Waste collection event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12, and Sunday, Sept. 13, at Grossmont Center, between Lava Fitness and Fuddruckers. For more information, visit www.eastcountychamber.org

      The Grossmont College Theatre Arts Dept. will present Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” directed by Beth Duggan, in the Stagehouse Theatre on Oct. 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 10 and 17 at 2 p.m.