President's News Burst for March 2010

SCIENCE DECATHLON ON SATURDAY

About 120 middle school students will be on campus on Saturday, March 6, for the Southern California Regional Science Decathlon. Eighteen teams are planning to compete. Students will represent middle schools in Poway, Vista, Quartz Hill, Chula Vista and Lakeside. Activities will include bottle rocket launchings, flying rubberband-powered airplanes and forensic crime scenes.

  

AEROSPACE LEGEND WILL VISIT GROSSMONT ON MARCH 18

As part of Women’s History Month, aviation pioneer Col. Mary Wallace “Wally” Funk will visit Grossmont on Thursday, March 18. Mrs. Funk was a member of the “Mercury 13” Women in Space program in the 1960s. From 12:30-1:45 p.m. in Room 220 she will share her amazing journey through her historic aviation career, to be followed by a private reception in Griffin Gate with Grossmont Middle College High School students and the Gillespie Field Chapter of the Ninety-Nines, an organization for retired women pilots. In 1961, at age 21, Wally volunteered for the “Women in Space” program. Only 25 women were chosen for testing. Wally underwent a series of rigorous physical and mental tests and was third in a field of 13 qualifying candidates. Despite the fact that these “Mercury 13” women met the same requirements as their more famous male counterparts, Congress directed NASA to cancel the final training phase of the Women in Space program. Funding for Mrs. Funk’s appearance is being provided by World Arts and Cultures Committee, the Grossmont College Foundation and ASGC. Also assisting is the San Diego Air & Space Museum.

COLLEGE RECOGNITION AWARDS

Save the Date!  The 11th annual College Recognition Awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 13, 2010, @ 3:00 p.m. in the Student Center. Calls for nominations have been issued for several awards. Innovator of the Year nominations are due to Linda Daley by March 31^st (date extended).  Excellence in Teaching awards are due to the Division Dean’s office by March 8.  Kudos Awards can be submitted online between now and April 30. The Kudos Award is designed to help thank and recognize a member of the Grossmont College who represents teamwork and excellent service. Finally, if you have received a new degree or have had a significant publication between June 2009-January 2010 , please submit this information soon to Pam Amor. Thank you for your cooperation.

  

CULINARY ARTS DINNER

Our Culinary Arts Students display their skills on Thursdays beginning Feb. 25 by preparing and serving a five-course dinner served at 5:30 p.m. through April 29. Cost for the dinner is $20 per person. Proceeds will go to the Culinary Arts program and the Competition Team for Culinary Arts. The dinner is prepared by students enrolled in the CTE Fine Dining class. Entrees for Spring 2010 include Herb Crusted Breast of Chicken, Roasted Pork Medallions, Braised Beef with Sautéed Mushrooms, Pasta Alfredo and Baked Fish. Vegetarian meals also are available. Reservations can be made by phoning Michele Martens at (619) 644-7549, or by e-mail at michele.martens@gcccd.edu. Space is limited and some dates may already be full.   

  

WALK OF FAME NEEDS YOUR NOMINATIONS!

It's that time of year again to honor one of our highly successful alumni!  The Grossmont College Foundation is seeking nominations for its 2010 Walk of Fame Alumni Award. The Walk of Fame, located on the Main Quad area, is a display of several bronze plaques embedded in concrete that features names of previous distinguished alumni. Nominees must have completed a minimum of 12 units at Grossmont College, earned a minimum 2.0 grade point average and contributed significant achievements and leadership in their field. Deadline for submission of entries is Monday, March 15. Names can be submitted via e-mail to Ernest Ewin, or call Alexis Popko at x7109 for a nomination form. New honorees are expected to be announced in May. The Foundation’s efforts help fund scholarships, facility improvements and educational supplies, equipment and programs. The Walk of Fame program began in 1989. Among the 19 previous Walk of Fame recipients are medical researchers, political advocates, artists, athletes and community leaders.

  

MEMBERSHIP AT BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

During these economically challenging times, the Boys and Girls Clubs of East County is offering children of staff and faculty who work for the schools and colleges in the East County a free annual membership ($35 value) and 20 percent off Spring and Summer Camps, which will be held at the El Cajon, Lakeside, La Mesa and Santee Clubhouses. For more information, visit www.bgcec.org.

  

RECENT VISITORS TO CAMPUS

·         10th graders from Helix High School Health Pathways program.

·         Coronado High Schools students who toured DSPS and Assistive Tech Lab.

·         75 students from Warner High School and Middle School toured the Career Center and Health Professions.

  

SPEECH TEAM RESULTS

The Grossmont/Cuyamaca Speech and Debate Team recently attended two tournaments. At the Cerritos Tournament on Feb. 14, Joe Fejeran placed first in Open Division Program Oral Interpretation. At the CSU-LA Tournament on Feb. 28, the results included: Colton Salaz, 2nd place in Open Division Persuasion and Open Division Extemporaneous, and 3rd place in Open Division Duo;  and Vanessa Estrella, 3rd place in Open Division Duo. Vanessa also was a finalist in Open Division Speech to Entertain. Nitzan Harel also was a finalist in Open Division Impromptu Speaking.

  

CALWORKS HAS STUDENT WORKERS

Are you in need of assistants? CalWORKs has students who are looking for work study opportunities. CalWORKs has an increase in the number of students who are in need of work experience through work study, which is fully funded. If your department can use some help, please contact Gerardette Nutt at extension 7785.

  

UPCOMING EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

v  Announcements from Student Health Services include:

ü  March is National Nutrition Month. Information on healthy food choices is available at Health Services.

ü  March 8-12 is “Save Your Vision Week.” Vision screening and optometrist referrals are available at Health Services.

ü  A H1N1 (Swine Flu) Prevention and Education Exhibit will be on display on March 15 and 16 in the Main Quad.

v  ASGC General Grant Requests are due Friday, March 5, by 2 p.m. in the ASGC Office.

v  Friday, March 5 is the deadline to submit Student Add Cards. Late Student Adds will not be accepted after the sixth week of the semester.

v  The Lady Griffs Women’s basketball team is in the state championships Sweet 16 round. The next game is Saturday, March 6, at Fullerton. A booster bus will depart from the flag pole in front of the college at 3 p.m. Roundtrip cost is $15 per person.

v  The Grossmont Symphony Orchestra will perform “The Music of Will Todd” at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 6, at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, 11451 Blue Cypress Dr. in Scripps Ranch. Admission is free.

v  The Career Center will host “Be A Star Performer,” a free informational meeting on soft skills that can give you the edge in a job search and career success, from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 11, Room 60-627. Speaking will be Nancy Davis, Student Development Services Supervisor.

v  The Theatre Arts Dept. will present “I Love You Because” at 7:30 p.m. on March 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 and at 2 p.m. on March 13 and 20. Tickets are $10 per person. This modern-day, musical love story is set in New York City and features a young, uptight greeting card writer and a flighty photographer. Along with their eccentric friends and siblings, they learn to love each other, not in spite of their faults, but because of them.

v  The Hyde Art Gallery, located on campus, will present “Ceramic Works,” an exhibit of ceramic artwork by Patsy Cox and Eric Rempe, from March 15 to April 22. The exhibit is open to the public. Cox’s work consists of thousands of small objects combined to form one large installation, featuring a mix of blending, hybridizing and cross-pollination. Rempe offers a variety of ceramic vessels, featuring an array of glazes, textures and shapes. The Hyde Art Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Admission is free.

v  The Grossmont Symphony Woodwind Quintet will perform at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 14, at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 5150 Wilson St. in La Mesa. Admission is free.

v  Faculty and staff wishing to present a workshop during Fall 2010 Professional Development Week (Aug. 16 to 20) can submit a workshop proposal on or before March 17 using the online workshop submission form. The theme for Fall Flex Week is “A New Generation,” focusing on the new generation of students, technology and assessment. Workshops will be organized into one of four tracks: Assessment, Contemporary Teaching Techniques, Technology in Education and General.

v  The Grossmont College Foundation will host the San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce’s First Friday Breakfast on Friday, April 9, in the Student Center. Breakfast begins at 7:15 a.m. The GC Foundation has opportunities available for you to display information about your departments to our local East County business professionals. About 150 people are expected to attend. Deliver your materials by March 26 to Alexis Popko at the Foundation office.

v  The Grossmont Guitar Guild will present “Blurring the Edges” with Fred Benedetti, Peter Sprague and Tripp Sprague at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 9, in Room 220. Admission is $10 per person.

v  The Grossmont Symphony Orchestra will perform with guest artist pianist Jessie Chang at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 13, at Point Loma Nazarene University, Crill Concert Hall, 2900 Lomaland Dr., San Diego. For ticket information, call (619) 849-2200.

v  The 2010 Spring Leadership Retreat will be held on Friday, April 23 at the Ronald Reagan Community Center in El Cajon.  Forty to 50 constituent group representatives from across the college will be participating in the day-long event. 

v  The Brad Daluiso Golf Classic, benefiting the Grossmont College Foundation, will be held on Friday, May 7 at Sycuan Resort. Volunteers are welcomed. There are a variety of exciting volunteer assignments ranging from beverage cart driver to putting contest judge. Faculty and staff are invited to lock-in your price and play at a reduced rate. Register and pay before April 3 to earn $150 off the regular foursome price of $800 (your price will be only $650). Individual golfers are eligible for a 12.5 percent discount and play for only $162.50. For more information on volunteering or playing, contact Alexis at extension 7109.

v  Mark your calendars for our college’s Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, June 3, at 5:30 p.m. in the Main Quad. Come and applaud our students on their major achievement!  El Cajon Police Chief Pat Sprecco (class of 1976) and Walk of Fame Honoree will be the featured speaker. His career with the El Cajon Police Dept. spans 37 years. The criminal justice administration graduate first joined the El Cajon PD as a volunteer cadet at age 16 in 1972.

President's News Burst for February 2010

ENROLLMENT UPDATE

Below are enrollment comparisons as of February 4, 2010 for Spring 2010 as compared to Spring 2009:

	Spring 2010	Spring 2009	Count Variance	% Variance
Headcount	20,950	19,471	+1479	+7.60%
Units	183,554.5	171,926.0	+11,628.5	+6.76%

Please remember all census drop rosters must be turned in even if you are not dropping any students.  The submission due date for a full semester course is today, February 5th.  Also remember to check your rosters during the third week of the semester.  Remove students from your class who are not registered in the class or give them a green add card if there are seats available.  Late add cards will no longer be accepted after the 6^th week of the semester.

  

BUDGET UPDATE

I was part of a contingent from Grosssmont-Cuyamaca Community College District that recently visited Sacramento to meet with state legislators in conjunction with the Community College League of California (CCLC) Legislative Conference.  The district was represented by Trustees Garrett, Barr and Alexander as well as Chancellor Miles and Dana Quittner.  Also present were AFT President, Jim Mahler and Cuyamaca Faculty member (and San Diego CC District Board Member), Mary Graham.  The budget news is not encouraging. We are not holding our breath for growth dollars, though the Governor had indicated this in his January budget.  The likelihood of sustained or deeper cuts to our categorical programs is likely. The word we’re hearing is that we should not expect improvement for the next three to five years.   

The discussions in Sacramento this spring will be very painful and difficult as significant cuts are still looming for health and human services.  One thing is certain -  we will not have a budget in July!  These difficult decisions may not be made until September or October.  While we will continue to fight for every dollar we can apply to our important mission, we will need to look at new approaches that will sustain us through these very challenging budget years.  We will not have the luxury to use our prior solutions and will have to creatively consider process improvements, simplifications and better, more effective ways to serve our students and our community.

Meanwhile, the Legislative Analyst’s Office recently issued a report entitled “The Master Plan at 50: Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts -- Coordinating Higher Education in California.” The report said that California’s approach to coordinating the state’s higher education system over the past 50 years has been indirect, and that institutions have been left to pursue their separate interests with insufficient mechanisms. This report examined the need for a system- wide approach to planning and coordination of California’s system of higher education. To read the report, visit www.loa.ca.gov/reports.

INSIDE THE ACTORS PROCESS:  IMPROVISATION

The Theatre Arts Dept. will present “Inside the Actor’s Process: Improvisation” at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 5 and 6, and 2 p.m. on Feb. 6, at the Stagehouse Theatre. Improvisation is a tool for acting. Through the presentations of scenes and monologues, characters will be developed by the actors using improvisational skills (timing, team work and listening). Following this weekend’s performances, the GC students will visit 16 local high schools in San Diego County over an eight-week period for presentations at drama classes. It’s the fifth consecutive year for the annual Spring Tour Show.

SPRING SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS BREAKFAST

The annual Spring Scholarship Awards Breakfast will be held on Saturday, Feb. 6 in the Student Center. Breakfast begins at 9:30 a.m., and the program begins at 10 a.m.  We are honored to host many of our scholarship donors as well as recipients.  The event is presented by the Grossmont College Foundation and Grossmont College Scholarship Department. These scholarships are competitive and are based on a selection process established by the Grossmont College Scholarship Advisory Committee and any additional criteria established by the sponsor. A total of 48 students will be awarded scholarships that exceed $20,600.

“I HAVE A DREAM” ON TUESDAY

As part of Black History Month, the GC World Arts and Cultures Committee will present Mr. David Johnson on Tuesday, Feb. 9, at 1 p.m. in the Main Quad, and at 7 p.m. in Room #220. Mr. Johnson is a “Dr. King Orator” who will perform the famous “I Have A Dream” speech. Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity to re-live in person the powerful oratory delivery of Dr. King. David Johnson’s website is www.davidjohnson7.com. Here is a link to his “I Have A Dream” speech on YouTube, http://www.youtube.com/djohnstl#p/u/12/lPit2hpz7Bg. Mr. Johnson also is scheduled to appear live on Channel 6 at 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday morning.

“CONNECTIVITY” SCULPTURE EXHIBIT

The Hyde Art Gallery is presenting “Connectivity,” a free exhibit of 17 sculptures by Miya Hanaan, through Feb. 25. The exhibit features three-dimensional sculptures consisting of white fabric and brown thread that represent the fragility of physical bodies and the existence of something beyond death. The artist says her work has been influenced by Buddhist philosophy, cosmology and death rituals. The Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

  

“ULTIMATE CAKE OFF”

Former GC culinary student Charity George (graduated in December 2008) appeared as a contestant on the season premier of the “Ultimate Cake Off” show on the TLC Network, which aired on Monday, Feb. 1. Charity and her team, which includes GC instructor Greg Smith, built a five-and-a-half-foot-high wedding cake in the shape of a mountain -- because the couple got engaged on top of a mountain. The competition consisted of making a wedding cake that had to be at least five feet high in less than nine hours, with some kind of motorization and lighting included. Although Charity and her team did not win the overall contest, she won the best tasting cake award.  Some might argue that taste is more important!  She has been invited to compete again on the TV show, which is scheduled to film in one month. Monday’s full episode can be viewed at www.TLC.Discovery.com. Charity has worked for the past year as a pastry chef and cake artist with Sweet Cheeks Baking Company of San Diego (www.sweetcheeksbaking.com).

OCCUPATIONAL OUTLOOK FOR 2010

The Career Center will present “Occupational Outlook for 2010, A Slow Recovery” at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 17, in Room 60 627. Presenting will be Nancy Davis, Student Development Services Supervisor. Topics will include the four fastest-growing sectors of the economy and 10 best career picks for 2010. To register, call the GC Career Center at 644-7614.

CENSUS BUREAU JOBS

Part-time jobs are available with the U.S. Census Bureau. Testing is underway in San Diego County for recruiting assistant ($18/hr.), office clerk ($12.50/hr), crew leader ($18/hr.), crew leader assistant ($16.50/hr.) and enumerator/lister ($16.50/hr). To make an appointment to take a test, please call (866) 861-2010, or visit www.census/gov/jobs.  Please help spread the word about these part time job opportunities to those students, friends, neighbors and family members that might be interested.

FAFSA WORKSHOPS

The Financial Aid Office will present free workshops on completing online the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in Room #70-103 on Monday, Feb. 8, 9-10 a.m.; Wednesday Feb. 17, 11 a.m.-noon; Thursday, Feb. 25, 10-11 a.m.; and Monday, March 1, 9-10 a.m. The FAFSA application, the federal government’s instrument for calculating need-based aid, is used by colleges to determine financial aid eligibility for federal and state aid programs. To reserve a seat, call the Financial Aid Office at (619) 644-7129.

ALERT SAN DIEGO

As a service to all GC employees, and in partnership with the County of San Diego, the District is participating in “Alert San Diego,” an emergency notification system. Utilizing current contact information from Employment Services at the District Office, listed personnel can be notified of a campus emergency on their cellular telephone. If you need to update your personnel records with HR, please contact the Employment Services Department at the District Offices. All employees are encouraged to prepare, plan and stay informed by registering their personal cell phone numbers with Alert San Diego.

Registering your cell phone number with Alert San Diego means you would be called with critical information in the event of an emergency. The information is submitted on the Web over a secure, encrypted connection. The County of San Diego will not share or distribute personal information gathered for this program. For information, visit www.sdcounty.ca.gov/oes/ready.

  

SPORTS REPORT

      East County Sports, a local sports news service, reports that six Grossmont College Griffins recently signed scholarships to continue their football career at the four-year college level. Defensive end Ja’Rodd Watson will move on to San Jose State, while nose guard Jericho Maxwell will check in at New Mexico Highlands. Defensive back Abraham Muheize has landed at Central Washington, after turning down bids from Florida A&M, Texas State, Delta State (Mississippi), and a return to Montana State. In addition, El Capitan graduate Cody Furr, a defensive end, has accepted a football ride to Missouri Southern, a Division II institution based in Joplin, Mo. Others advancing to the next level are wide receiver Nick Hill to Baker University in Kansas and tight end John Adams to Southwest Missouri State.

      GC student-athlete Homer Mauga has been selected as a Scholar-Leader-Athlete for the 2009-2010 school year by the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame. He will be honored at an awards banquet on Friday, March 19, at the Scottish Rite Event Center in Mission Valley. Congratulations, Homer.

      Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams play at Palomar College today, Friday, Feb. 5. The Lady Griffins play at 5 p.m., and the men at 7 p.m. The men’s team has lost 11 games this season by three points or less. The women’s team is 20-4 overall and 8-1 in the Pacific Coast Athletic Conference (PCAC). Both the Lady Griffins and Palomar’s women share the first place lead in the PCAC. The winner today will be in first place.

President's News Burst for January 2010

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Happy new year to all Grossmont College employees!  Hopefully the holiday season was joyous and restful.  Many administrators and staff report returning from break January 4^th rested and rejuvenated.  This periodic rest and recharging is crucial to our long term health and well-being.  Welcome back!

ENROLLMENT COMPARISON

Below are enrollment comparisons as of January 8, 2010 for Spring 2010 as compared to Spring 2009:

	Spring 2010	Spring 2009	Count Variance	% Variance
Headcount	18,469	15,445	+3,024	+16.4%
Units	166,981.0	143,079.5	+23,901.5	+14.3%

As you can see, we have 3,024 more students this spring than the previous year and are 16.4% up in headcount.  Open registration for Spring 2010 began on Dec. 9. Of the 1,772 sections offered by Spring 2010, 966 were closed as of Jan. 5.  Drop for nonpayment is scheduled to occur January 15^TH.

BUDGET UPDATE

Gov. Schwarzenegger’s State of the State address on Wednesday morning included support for education, which is certainly a positive sign. While community colleges were not specifically mentioned, the following quotes are of particular interest:

§  “And we can no longer afford to cut higher education either.

§  The priorities have become out of whack over the year.

§  Thirty years ago 10 percent of the general fund went to higher education and 3 percent went to prisons.

§   Today almost 11 percent goes to prisons and only 7 1/2 percent goes to higher education.

§  Spending 45 percent more on prisons than universities is no way to proceed into the future.

§  What does it say about a state that focuses more on prison uniforms than caps and gowns?

§  I will submit to you a constitutional amendment so that never again do we spend a greater percentage of our money on prisons than on higher education.”

California Community Colleges Chancellor Jack Scott said, “Governor Schwarzenegger’s vision that California will no longer spend more money on prisons than it does on higher education is one that holds great promise. Wisdom and common sense remind us that tipping the scales back in favor of fully funding education means that fewer Californians will land in a prison cell and we will reduce costs associated with larger prison populations. I am encouraged by the governor’s statement that he will not propose additional cuts to education in 2010-11. This year the California Community Colleges received an 8 percent cut.  This cut had very severe consequences.  The governor’s commitment to protect education is a welcome relief for college faculty, staff and students.”

News reports indicate that the governor intends to call the Legislature into emergency session to confront a nearly $6.3 billion budget gap in the current fiscal year. Officials expect the governor will outline his proposed solutions when he unveils his new budget for the 2010-11 fiscal year that begins July 1.

  

COMING SOON! SPRING 2010 SPRING CONVOCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WEEK

The Spring 2010 Convocation will be held on Tuesday morning, Jan. 19. Continental breakfast will begin at 8 a.m.  As always, all faculty and staff are welcome to attend.  Seating in Griffin Gate will allow additional people to be seated comfortably, participate in the program and enter/exit as required by staffing schedules.  The program will include President’s Remarks, Facilities Update, and the announcement of the 2009-2010 President’s Leadership Award. The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Janine Graziano-King and Dr. Rachel Singer in Room 220. The title of their address is “Working with Educationally Underprepared Students: A Holistic Approach.” Both of them are from Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn, N.Y., and have worked on the Washington Center’s National Project on Assessing Learning in Learning Communities. After the keynote, a very special lunch and additional activities are planned in the Student Center.  Don’t miss out!  More information about Professional Development Week is available at www.grossmont.edu/staffdevelop.

KUDOS TO THE GROSSMONT COLLEGE CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER!

GC’s Child Development Center has achieved accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), reports Angie Gish, Instructor and coordinator, Child Development & Family Studies. The accreditation is valid until January 1, 2015. The NAEYC accreditation system was created to set professional standards for early childhood education, and to help families identify high-quality preschools, child-care centers and other early education programs. NAEYC is the world’s largest organization working on behalf of young children with nearly 90,000 members, a national network of more than 300 local, state and regional affiliates, and a growing global alliance of like-minded organizations. The association is the largest and most influential advocate for early care and education in the U.S. Regarded as the mark of quality in early childhood education, NAEYC is dedicated to improving the well-being of all young children, with particular focus on the quality of educational and developmental services for all children from birth through age 8.

UNIVERSITY STUDIES DEGREE APPROVED

The State Chancellor’s Office has approved Grossmont’s Associate Degree in University Studies. The degree requirements include a California State University (CSU) General Education Breadth or Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) for CSU or UC. More details are available starting on page 99 of the current catalog.

  

GRAND OPENING - CUYAMACA’S BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY BUILDING

A grand opening for Cuyamaca College’s Business and Technology Building will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 20, during Professional Development Week. The new building will house the following disciplines: Business, Business Office Technology, Computer and Information Science, Computer Science, Economics, Graphic Design, Paralegal Studies and Real Estate. Construction funding was provided by the $207 million Proposition R bond measure that East County voters approved in 2002.

H1N1 VACCINES AVAILABLE

H1N1 (swine flu) and seasonal flu vaccinations are now available to all students, faculty and staff in the Student Health Services Office (while supplies last). Previously, the vaccine was limited on campus to priority groups, including pregnant women, young adults and adults with chronic medical conditions. Now, the entire college community is encouraged to take advantage of this free vaccine from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Fridays. From Dec. 9 to 18, approximately 900 H1N1 flu vaccines were dispensed on campus.

EXERCISE ON CAMPUS IN THE NEW YEAR

Kick off the New Year with a workout in the Fitness Center and Weight Room, which will be open for all GC faculty and staff from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays, Jan. 4 to 15. Bring along a small workout towel and your staff ID. Admission is free, and Cheryl Kerns-Campbell and Jim Spillers will be there to show you how to use the equipment.

REMINDER! PRINT SHOP SERVICES

The Print Shop is encouraging submission as soon as possible of printing requests for the Spring Semester. Online job submission is available at www.grossmont.edu/printing. No walk-in copy service or 24-hour turnaround will be available from Jan. 11 through Feb. 12.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LADY GRIFFS!

The Grossmont College Lady Griffs women’s basketball team beat Mt. San Jacinto 75-65 in the championship game to win first place in the 22nd annual Grossmont College Holiday Basketball Tournament, held on campus Dec. 28-30. In recent rankings, Mt. San Jacinto has been rated as high as fifth in the state. Eight teams competed in the three-day tournament, including seven teams from California community colleges. On the final day of the tournament, Citrus finished third in the tournament after beating Saddleback 63-51, and Lethbridge of Alberta, Canada beat Bakersfield 69-55 in the consolation game. Grossmont’s Leticia Ridley (San Diego High School) was named the tournament’s MVP, and Grossmont’s Phylicia Schultz (Grossmont High School) also was honored for her selection as a member of the five-player All-Tournament Team.  

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.