The AIOIC Spirit FALL 2014

SPIRIT
AIOIC
NEWSLETTER OF THE AIOIC STUDENTS AND STAFF
VOL. 31 NO. 4
FALL 2014
NEW ACCREDITATION AGENCY
EDITOR’S NOTE: Following our previous accrediting
agency’s decision to no longer provide services to our
type of school, AIOIC worked through an accreditation
process with another of the major accrediting agencies—within the one-year timeline allowed to us.
Phillip Spence gives a certificate to Human
Services Technician Program graduate Sedika
Gazey on July 17.
OUR QUARTERLY GRADUATION
On July 17, the Takoda Institute celebrated the graduation of the following students during an evening of
heartfelt speeches and well-deserved recognitions:
Ann Abel, Public Relations Specialist; David Adams,
Computer Support Specialist; Sharon Adams, Human
Services Technician; Zeyba Adem, Health Occupations
Careers—Direct Care; Aida Alkadi, Public Relations
Specialist; Jessica Armstrong, Administrative Assistant;
Martha Banda Rodriguez, Computer Support Specialist;
John Barobs, Public Relations Specialist; Ryan Bellew,
Computer Support Specialist; April Block, Human
Services Technician; Josephine Davis, Health
Information Technology Specialist; Cindy Degnan,
Public Relations Specialist; Salvador Diaz, Computer
Support Specialist; Aliabbas Ebrahim, Computer
Support Specialist; Jean Flugge, Human Services
Technician; Jacques Freeman, Computer Support
Specialist; Sedika Gazey, Human Services Technician;
Robert Graham, Public Relations Specialist;
Continued on page 9
It is my distinct honor (and pleasure) to announce that
as of 5:44 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2014, the Takoda
Institute of Higher Education (A Division of American
Indian OIC) is offically accredited by the
Accreditation Commission for Career Schools and
Colleges!
My heartfelt thanks to the entire team who worked so
hard and diligently to make this proposition a reality!
We took a two-year process and completed it successfully in 11 months. It was a Herculean effort with
many stressful moments, yet for the commitment and
passion of the team who worked on this process – and
their unswerving belief in our eventual success – we
made it happen!
Pilamaya! Here’s to our new era with the ACCSC.
Joe Hobot, President and CEO
IN THIS ISSUE:
Board and Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 3
New Student . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Alumni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
ABE/GED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Data Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Elder Happenings/To Your Health . . . .7
Health Programs Advisor . . . . . . . . . . .8
Stay Connected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
AIOIC Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
AND MORE
AIOIC SPIRIT is published quarterly. Materials are gathered and edited by the staff and students of AIOIC.
Opinions expressed in the SPIRIT are those of the individual student or staff and not necessarily those of the
organization, its board, or management.
Long-Term Students: Omar Abdullahi, Andrew Anderson, Ihesha Anderson, Sheryl Anoka, Ra’essa AsSidiq, Maria Barnes, Christopher Beckwith, Julie Bergmann, Tirsael Berhe, Jasmine Billey-Harris, Naomi
Bjerke, April Block, Miguel Bobabilla, Kenneth Bohn, Cheryl Bokon, Omar Bourekri, Kimberly
Brandenberg, Renita Brown, Patricia Campion, Gregory Castor, Annette Charbonneau, Abdo Chirr, Peter
Christmas, Tyann Christopher, Tania Coffield, Gloria Cosper, Romondo Creer, Carla DeMarrias, Christine
Dietsche, Breanna EagleFeather, Alida Elliot, Peggie Erlandson, Nardos Erundas, Shelly Ford, Cheyenne
Fransen, Michelle Garrett, Bradley George, Carlos Gleghorn, Joe Gonzalez, Jason Grady, Pamela Green,
Sherri Green, David Grim, Ali Hassan, Zachary Hatgidakis, Jeff Henricks, Dinah Honerbring, Tracy Howell,
Florence Jack, Abimbola Jolaoso, Anthony Jones, Diamond Jones, Pierre Jones, Jan Kaul, Christopher Keeler,
Debra LaBraie, Susan LaRoque, Sarah Lee, Paul Levario, Lessie Lindsey, Antonitte Mahto, Saran Manning,
Craig Marier, Rebecca Markowitz, Matthew Martinka, Fere Mehammed, Getachew Meskele, LaJune
Merchant, Lourdes Meza Molina, Abdi Mohamed, Mywiah Monkweh, Maryan Muhumed, Alphonso Nabors,
Jessica Nelson, Ronald Newton, Dzung Nguyen, Rejeanie Nickels, Jeffrey Nikunen, Folakemi Obadina, Pepe
Ollor, Amin Omar, Layla Omer, Nwabueze Onuzulike, Sylvester Onyeneho, Julio Orellana, Naima Osman,
Souad Osman, Kim Patterson, Victor Perrige, Kevin Pettis, Jessie Piller, Kejuan Porter, Jon Rabideaux,
Jeremy Rapp, Tina Rivers, Darlene Rogers, Mark Rusnak, Kedija Said, Gregory Sanft, Laura Sargent, Sonya
Shabaiash, Donna Smith, Amanda Spears, Kelly Stillday, Amy Swerdlick, Arianna Thompson, Patrick Tobin,
Cassandra Todd, Kathleen Touchstone, Sharese Towns, Ariana Trejo, Laura Vizenor, Dawn Walters, Bonnie
Wending, Duane Wenker, Rebecca Wentz, Cornelius Whitefeather, Janice Williams, Leon Williams,
Getachew Wube, Addis Yemaneh.
Basic Skills Students: Gerard GreyEagle, Julie GreyEagle, Clarence Opheim, Herman Porter, JoAnne
Vandenbrooke, Ahmed Vincent, Sie Sied, Aleah WalkingBull, Santos Gonzalez, Joseph Smith, Clarence
Bettis, Patricia Byrom, Jackie Matrious, Brandon Oakgrove, Laura Larson, Marquela Heade, Taleeyah Rivera
Vizenor, April Strait.
Long-Term Student Completers: Ann Abel, David Adams, Sharon Adams, Zeyba Adem, Aida Al-Kadi,
JJessica Armstrong, Martha Banda Rodriquez, John Barobs, Ryan Bellew, April Block, Josephine Davis,
Cindy Degnan, Salvadore Diaz, Aliabbas Ebrahim, Jean Flugge, Jacques Freeman, Misty Ganley, Sedika
Gazey, Robert Graham, Jermell Green, Allan Hendrickson, Chuck Huntley, Anab Isse, Gary Neil, Heidi
Nelson, Keith Nelson, William Nguma, Maria Orellana, Brandon Pederson, Carla Peppler, Henry Peppers,
Robert Rafn, Margaret Richter, Malika Sadi-Goodman, Elizabeth Scheidt, Joselyn Shackelford, Scott Smith,
Elizabeth Stewart, Debra Strege, Tara Sunder, Vickie Vanselow, Ernest Weidner, Conswello Wheeler.
NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS
Editors ..........................Kim L. Patterson, Lloyd Wittstock
Writers..........................Prakash Adiani, Darlene Barbour, Joan Estenson, Joe Hobot, Barb Hydeen, Amy
Kadrmas, Dawn Paro, Kim L. Patterson, Carla Peppler, Lisa Royce, Annessia Swann,
Editors
Layout...........................Editors
Proofreaders ................Darlene Barbour, Vala Monroe, Editors
Photos..........................Editors, Tom Lonetti
Artwork ......................Franklin Firesteel, John Feather (logo)
Providing Opportunities. Changing Lives.
TO HIRE OUR GRADUATES
American Indian OIC is located at 1845 East Franklin
Avenue and 2700 E. Lake Street in Minneapolis.
Business hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. This
includes Minneapolis Works, Takoda Prep, MFIP,
ABE/GED, WIA and the Takoda Institute. FAX to
612-341-3766. E-mail to info@aioic.org or to staff at
their first name and last name initial @aioic.org.
Employers are encouraged to call the following:
Mel Spears at Ext. 175, Administrative
Assistants and Human Services Technicians;
Meg Gravelle at Ext. 174, Public Relations
Specialists and Social Media Students; Brittany
Nickens at Ext. 143, Health Occupations and
Health Information Technology Specialists;
Barbara Hydeen at Ext. 132, A+ and N+; and
David Zemler at Ext 124, Computer Support
Specialists. Call for contact with any of the graduates or completers.
New long-term students in the Takoda Institute of
Higher Education are admitted quarterly. Please apply
well in advance of the quarter. See the calendar on page
10 for the schedule of program testing. Programs last
from six months and up to nine months, which allows
students to complete the intensive, hands-on education
and seek employment in a short time period. See our
catalog, Student Handbook, program sheets, Quick
Guide or the Website (www.aioic.org) for information.
NEW STUDENT IN HITS
Takoda Institute is a solid source for traditional students seeking a postsecondary education and training,
but it is a gem for those non-traditional students seeking new paths, opportunities
and a place to fit in to learn
much-needed skills for our
technology infused workforce. Just ask Gloria
Cosper.
The class hours are: long-term students—as scheduled
between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., M-F (some
evenings); ABE and GED students—8:30 a.m. to 4
p.m., M-Th; to 3 p.m F.
Cosper,
a
native
of
Milwaukee, Wisconsin who
has spent a quite a bit of time
living the southwestern area
of the United States, was
introduced to the Health
Information
Technology
Specialist Program (HITS) via a workforce flyer posted in a business office.
AIOIC Staff: (names are followed by their phone
extensions) Prakash Adiani (119), Cindy Ander (159),
Cooper Anderson (129), Darlene Barbour (112),
Nirmal Bhattarai (131), Don Clark (115), Herb
Christensen (455-0591),
Carolyn Deters (104),
Kimberly Dziubinski (170), Linda Duck (108), Katie
Fitzpatrick (128), Meg Gravelle (174), Beverly Haskell
(102), Joe Hobot (149), Mitzi Hobot (110), Stephanie
Hobot (127), Chris Hubbard (158), Barbara Hydeen
(132), Amy Kadrmas (146), Tom Lonetti (121), Naida
Medicine Crow, (116), Vala Monroe (113), Shirleen
Morseau (117), Stephanie Needham-GreyEagle (100),
Brittney Nickens (143), Matt Nyberg (191), Maggie
Opare-Addo (135), Paul Pacheco (137), Dawn Paro
(111), Lisa Royce (150), Wilmer Skippingday (137),
Melody Spears (175), Annessia Swann (103), Amber
WhiteBear, (176), Lloyd Wittstock (127), David Zemler
(124). Coliseum: 612-455-0595.
She is glad she took advantage of the HITS program
and she is enjoying the wonders of learning; however,
that was not always the case. Cosper said she was hesitant initially to enroll in the program because she felt
her age was a barrier. “I’m too old to learn new stuff,
but I love to learn and if I can build on what I already
have, I will do fine.”
Building on past experience will enhance Cosper’s
opportunities for successful employment upon graduation, as there is not much she cannot do. Her resume
includes building and repairing computers, as well as
experience in the accounting and customer service
field. Cosper’s career goals include working in a medical or dental office where she can provide patients special personal attention. She hopes to one day have her
own medical transcription business.
Continued on page 4
AIOIC Board of Directors: LeMoine LaPointe,
Chairman; Jacqueline R. Wilson, Vice-Chairman; Carl
B. Fransen, Secretary; Mike Anderson, Treasurer; and
Clyde Bellecourt, David C. Isham, Maggie Lorenz, and
AIOIC President and CEO, Joe Hobot.
3
ATTENTION ALL CSS GRADUATES
NEW STUDENT CONTINUED
Cosper feels Takoda is the right fit for her because it
gives her a voice and she feels respected. “My favorite
part of this training experience is being treated as an
adult with my own knowledge to contribute and that I
matter.” Cosper loves interacting with the younger students, “I think they find us older students a fascinating
cornucopia of trivia.” Her advice to older and non-traditional students returning to school is, “Give it a try,
you have nothing to lose but everything to gain.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: Also see other special short-term
courses listed on page 10.
Full scholarships are available for JAVA and SQL
courses at Takota Institute. These courses started in
September, so call David Zemler, Career Services
Representative, at 612-341-3358, Ext. 124, for
December start times. These courses will make you a
compelling and competitive candidate to employers as
well as increase the likelihood of gaining higher wage
employment.
Kim L. Patterson
THE PEPPLER REPORT
Java Programming
MWF 12:00 P.M.----5:00 P.M.; Location: Coliseum;
Instructor: Jim Rudolf
EDITOR’S NOTE: Carla Peppler recently completed
the Health Information Technology Specialist program and sent us this update on her employment.
This workshop reviews programming concepts in general and the Java language in particular. It focuses on
general problem-solving techniques including flowcharts and algorithms and uses programming language
to teach programming concepts such as variables,
object-orientation, loops, input/output, etc. The student
will gain an understanding of general-purpose problem-solving techniques, of general programming concepts and of the Java language, which is exceptionally
useful for employers seeking computer support techs to
assist with Web development, IT support with Java
based applications or programs, mobile platform development, and electronics.
I was hired by Equity
Staffing on September 11
for a Customer Service
Representative job with
UnitedHealth Group. It is in
a new call center in
Minnetonka. It is also a new
program, and they will be
sending calls to our location
for questions from brokers
and members.
If it is successful, I may be
hired full-time permanently!
It pays well for a starting
wage, about 32K a year. So
I am happy to finally have a good job! I feel school was
a great benefit for my future and thank everyone at
Takoda for the great experience!
The workshop runs approximately 12 weeks with 245
hours (180 hours in class and 45 hours of out-ofclass/independent study) and is focused on concepts,
language development and application of Java in a
variety of settings.
Continued on page 5
Carla Peppler
The quarterly meeting of
the Minnesota Community
Advisors on Recruitment &
Retention Services was held
at the AIOIC building on
September 17. Here Jenna
Bergman, Mn.IT Services,
discussed entry level IT jobs.
Don Clark introduced the
AIOIC programs.
4
ATTENTION ALL CSS GRADUATES
CONTINUED
FROM THE ABE/GED ROOM
VOLUNTEER!
Data Analysis and Reporting with SQL
Sharon Keil has been a volunteer in our ABE/GED
classroom for about four years, and she is an appreciated tutor in math. She
comes in every Tuesday at
11.00 a.m. and stays until
1:30 p.m. The students
love it when she comes in
to help. She does one-onone tutoring and also does
board demonstrations. She
is able to make math fun
for the entire class, and the
students have come to look
forward to Tuesdays so
they can learn from her.
MWF 1:30 P.M.----6:30 P.M.; Location: Coliseum;
Instructor: Richard Balderrama
Databases are a critical underlying technology used by
nearly all companies. They are the engine that drives
e-commerce such as Amazon and are crucial component of telecommunications and software systems that
maintain some amount of persistent information.
The Database workshop is designed to train students
how to implement and manage their database solutions,
including SQL language and database queries, how to
migrate data, and how to implement powerful reporting
features in Microsoft SQL Server, as well as covering
basic Database Administration skills that pertain to creating reliable, secure and robust database applications.
She is very good at explaining all different kinds of math, including basic math,
fractions, decimals and percents. She can even make
algebra and geometry fun for everyone in the class.
She encourages the students to believe in themselves,
and helps them to realize that anyone can learn math
and remember it even after they are finished taking
their tests.
The student will have an understanding of data modeling, data structures, problem-solving techniques, data
analysis and the SQL language, the basic tool required
to extract useful information from modern databases.
Using the Microsoft SQL Server, students will learn
how to use Management Studio for database administration such as backing up, importing and exporting
data and administrative activities.
Sharon is a vital part of the GED program, not only
because of how she teaches, but because of her attitude
and the encouragement she brings to the classroom.
Whether she is teaching at the board, or going around
the room for more individualized tutoring, none of the
students feel left out or ignored. They all get help, and
she has even been known to stay after class ends if
someone needs extra help. My thanks to Sharon.
This workshop runs approximately 12 weeks with 245
hours (180 hours in class and 45 hours of out-ofclass/independent study) and with an instructor with
more than two decades of database development and
administration and SQL language.
Prakash Adiani
Education Director, Postsecondary
Darlene Barbour
MORE THANKS
The American Indian OIC is grateful for the
continued support of Ameriprise Financial
Foundation and Thrivent Financial for
Lutherans Foundation. Their grants allow the
Takoda Institute to provide its students with
employment assistance upon their graduation.
The organization is also excited to announce a
new contract with Minneapolis’ Employment
and Training Program which will help 32
Minneapolis youth explore what their careers
and education can look like after high school.
5
ABOUT THE SCHOOL
The Takoda Institute of Higher
Education offers these programs
(with number of months):
Administrative Assistant
(9 months)
Human Services Technician
(6 months)
DATAPOINTS
The enrollment summary by programs for the fall 2014 quarter is as
follows:
Administrative Assistant: 4 new, 4
returning; Computer Support
Specialist: 0 new, 39 returning;
Health Occupations Direct Care: 4
new, 9 returning; Human Services
Technician: 11 new, 8 returning;
Public Relations Specialist: 0 new, 10
returning; Health Occupations
Technology, 20 new, 15 returning.
(Overall, 10 withdrew in the first
week.)
That’s at total of 39 new students
and 85 returning, (10 withdrawals)
for a total of 114 students.
As always, we welcome all of the
students to their new or continued
enrollments and wish them success
in their studies and in their subsequent careers.
Career Services ran orientations
which included the many activities
to introduce students to the programs and the Institute, and for the
continuing students, to inform them
of any changes. We told them of
Service Learning and of future job
placement assistance.
Final forms and agreements were
explained and signed, followed by
the distribution of the student
schedules.
Annessia Swann
Health Occupations Careers
Direct Care (6 months)
Health Information Technology
(6 months)
Computer Support Specialist
(9 months)
Public Relations Specialist
(9 months)
Many of the programs have a
Service Learning Experience.
Apply for admission and financial
aid soon, if you intend to enroll in
the next quarter. Also, be sure to
test soon so you can take any needed basic education.
December 1 is the orientation date
and December 2 is the first class day
of the winter quarter. Please call
Career Services Representatives
612-341-3358 Ext. 171 for intake
information, or Financial Aid
Coordinator Amy Kadrmas at Ext.
146 for financial aid information.
See the staff list on page 2 for their
phone extensions and email
addresses. Career Services staff are
listed on page 3.
Individual health courses are currently offered only as part of the
six-month programs.
September Second Orientation included presentations by Career
Services staff, advisors and teachers, as well as this time spent with
Education Director, Postsecondary Prakash Adiani. New students learned
the top 10 things to know on the first day of class.
6
For the health programs, a
background check is required to
enroll in these programs. This is
because of requirements in the
workplace.
ELDER HAPPENINGS
MINNEAPOLIS AMERICAN INDIAN
CENTER
Two programs work together at the
Center to provide services to elders;
The Seniors program works with
Optage, the services division of the
Presbyterian Church, to provide
weekday noon meals. That program
also can provide transportation for
elders ages 62 and over.
Wisdom Steps encourages elders to
take simple steps toward better
health. Three walks per week are
currently on their calendar, which
can be viewed at the updated MAIC
Website, maicnet.org.
All American Indian people 55+ and
their spouses in the state of
Minnesota are eligible. See your
Elder, Indian or Tribal Health
Services or Elder Center. April
Smith at 612-879-1770 can help you
with enrolling in these programs.
TO YOUR HEALTH
GINEW/GOLDEN EAGLE PROGRAM
The Ginew/Golden Eagle Program
sponsors activities and healthy meals
for children. Physical exercise held
both outdoors and indoors is balanced with study time. Indian youth
ages 5 to 18 can take part in activities such as open gym.
They seek to keep youth healthy and
active. Call Julie Green at Golden
Eagles, 612-879-1708, for more
information, (or see maicnet.org).
NATIVE AMERICAN
COMMUNITY CLINIC
Weekdays from 10 a. m. to 6 p.m,
and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2
p.m. are the hours of the NACC for
medical and dental services, at 1213
East Franklin, 612-872-8086.
The Diabetes Prevention Program
offers free classes facilitated by a
Lifestyle Coach to participants. See
nacc-healthcare.org for overall information on NACC.
MASHkIkI WAAkAAIGAN
Mashkiki Waakaaigan is located at
1433 E Franklin Ave., Suite 13B.
Operated by the Fond du Lac Band,
it offers assistance in meeting copays for enrolled members of any
tribe who live in Hennepin or
Ramsey Counties.
Their services include private discussions with a pharmacist and the
Smoking Cessation Program.
Medication reviews are available by
appointment. Open generally
Monday --- Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Call 612-871-1989 for information.
DIVISION OF INDIAN WORk
DIW Health Services offers a food
shelf, pregnancy counseling and
smoking prevention education. For
information ona the other programs
at the DIW, 1001 East Lake Street,
call 612-722-8722 to learn more or
view gmcc.org, where you can also
find Vision on the Wind, their newsletter.
lessons and events such as the Twin
Cities Marathon, Cultural Exchange
and other YWCA and community hosted events. They seek to prevent the
onset of obesity and the risk of Type II
Diabetes among youth in the Latino
and Native American communities.
They require a 6-12 month commitment. Participating families receive a
YWCA of Minneapolis family membership! The program has after school
hours for ages 7-11 and 12-17. Contact
Crystal Pelchat at 612-215-4367 or
Cpelchat@YWCAmpls.org.
MINNESOTA INDIAN WOMEN’S
RESOURCE CENTER
The MIWRC, 2300 15th Avenue in
South Minneapolis, serves individuals
and families through education and
housing to bring about positive
change for Native American women.
“Nokomis Endaad Outpatient
Treatment Program represents...the
hopes and dreams of Native women
who want to heal from their sexual
trauma, addictions, mental health
issues, and cultural co-occurring disorders (e.g. loss of: culture, language,
family roles; grief and shame); and,
live sober and fulfilling lives.”
For information on their many programs, call 612-728-2000 or visit
miwrc.org.
STRONG FAST FIT NATIVE
Strong Fast Fit Native at the YWCA
of Minneapolis Midtown location is
accepting applications for an afterschool fitness and nutrition program
for Native and Latino youth.
Youth will engage in fun fitness and
nutrition activities in culturally specific groups. Activities include: group
fitness (Zumba, Aquatics, Spin, etc.)
drum and dance, cooking class, swim
7
INDIAN HEALTH BOARD
The Indian Health Board offers medical and dental care and counseling
support at 1315 E. 24th Street. The
number for those services is 612-7219800.
Evening hours for medical care are
held on Tuesdays. Their Website:
indianhealthboard.com.
Meet Lisa Royce, RN
The healthcare sector is growing; and having quality
professionals working in the industry requires having
quality teachers on the frontend. Takoda Institute is
proud to have Lisa Royce guiding Takoda students
through the vast world of healthcare education.
Royce first came to Takoda in 2006. She is a registered
nurse and brought with her 30 years of healthcare experience. Her experience is well-rounded, ranging from
home-care services, management roles and administrative positions. At Takoda, she utilizes all of her past
experiences to teach a variety of healthcare courses that
prepare students for state licensing exams. In addition
to her teaching duties, Royce also advises all of the
Health Occupation Careers---Direct Care and Health
Information Technology Specialist students.
the planners of the august PR event: from front,
left, Kristine Kemp, Lindsay Anderson, Julie Gartrell.
Standing, Miguel Bobadilla, Abdul Steiner, Melonie
Alstatt, Jennifer Anderson, Joan Estenson.
In her courses, Royce helps her students gain the
expectations of being both accountable and responsi-
eat, DRiNk aND Be sociaL
During the summer quarter the third Public Relations
Specialist cohort decided to “Eat, Drink and Be
Social.”
Each quarter for our event planning class the third
cohort plans and puts on an event for their fellow PRS
students. Each cohort can choose an educational, corporate, fundraising or personal event; this cohort chose
a party, which is a personal event. The original plan
was to invite members of past cohorts back for a
reunion as well as hosting the current second cohort,
but there was not enough lead time to connect with
PRS alumni.
ble. She helps them develop personal and organization
skills; which lead to confidence and practical working
attributes. Students entering her courses need to be
committed and adaptable. They need to come ready to
learn, be present and graduate, she said.
This event was held on the afternoon of August 13 in
the large multi-purpose room at Takoda Institute, and
was attended by the PR Specialists and staff.
Entertainment included two games to help everyone get
to know each other, a meditation, hand massages and
lots of food, mostly donated by class members so the
event would stay within budget. Guests rated the party
a success on the evaluation form, and made many positive comments both on the evaluation and to their
hosts.
When asked what she thought made Takoda a great
school, she responded that it is the dedication to the students, and of the students, that ultimately made Takoda
stand out.
“Staff and faculty are committed to meet the students’
needs; and thus assist them to a positive outcome,”
Royce said. “Students are also committed to overcoming barriers in order to succeed.”
Jennifer Anderson served as the event chair. The
Communication and Hospitality committee consisted
of Committee Lead Abdul Steiner, Lindsay Anderson
and Melonie Alstatt. The Program and Logistics committee members were Committee Lead Joan Estenson,
Kristine Kemp, Julie Gartrell and Miguel Bobadilla.
Although the healthcare industry is growing; it is also
competitive. Royce’s advice for graduates entering the
workforce is to set out to exceed your employer’s
expectations. In today’s workplace striving to surpass a
goal is a necessity – “stay teachable.”
Joan Estenson
8
GRaDuatioN coNtiNueD fRoM PaGe 1
Jermell Green, Health Information Technology
Specialist; Allan Hendrickson, Health Information
Technology Specialist; Chuck Huntley, Public
Relations Specialist; Anab Isse, Human Services
Technician; Gary Neil, Computer Support
Specialist; Heidi Nelson, Health Information
Technology Specialist; Keith Nelson, Computer
Support Specialist; Maria Orellana, Computer
Support Specialist; Branden Pedersen, Public
Relations Specialist; Carla Peppler, Health
Information Technology Specialist; Henry Peppers,
Public Relations Specialist; Robert Rafn, Public
Relations Specialist; Margaret Richter, Human
Services Technician; Malika Sadi-Goodman, Public
Relations Specialist; Elizabeth Scheidt, Computer
Support Specialist; Joselyn Shackelford, Computer
Support Specialist; Scott Smith, Public Relations
Specialist; Elizabeth Stewart, Health Information
Technology Specialist; Debra Strege, Public
Relations Specialist; Tara Sunder, Computer
Support Specialist; Vickie Vanselow, Health
Information Technology Specialist; Ernest Weidner,
Computer Support Specialist; Conswelo Wheeler,
Computer Support Specialist. With a little help: Carla Peppler assists Aida Alkadi
with the mortarboard cap at the July 17 graduation.
ceo Joe Hobot
congratulates
Vickie Vanselow
for her completion of the
Health
Information
Technology
Specialist
Program.
Master of Ceremonies was Phillip Spence, presiding
over his last graduation before leaving us for other
opportunities. The entire teaching staff contributed
their individual perspectives on this cohort of students, and they in turn spoke of their progress and
their plans.
The next graduation event is scheduled for October
16, and will honor those students who completed
during the summer quarter. the graduates exuberantly
toss their caps after the formal
ceremony which recognized 41
graduates from the previous
academic quarter.
9
caReeR PatHWay oPPoRtuNities
tHe aioic caLeNDaR
What’s your plan? Are you ready to begin a new
career? The WIA Adult and Minneapolis Works programs can assist with career exploration leading to
short-term job training to help you successfully begin
on your career pathway through access to free shortterm job training where you will earn industry-recognized credentials and certificates. Weekly/Monthly:
Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m.: Intake and TABE testing
for Takoda Institute programs
TBA: FAFSA workshops for student aid for potential students (held near quarter starts)
Fridays at 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: WIP orientation, TABE testing (must be pre-registered and
have completed intake); Also, call Darlene at
Ext. 112 to schedule your ABE/GED intake
testing times
There are also free scholarships available to Native
American applicants interested in attending training at
Takoda Institute. Job placement assistance is provided
after completion of all training programs.
Contact: Don Clark, Ext. 115, or Vala Monroe, Ext. 113,
for the WIA Adult Program, and Shirleen Morseau, Ext.
117, for the Minneapolis Works Program.
One-Time Events:
Open Now: Enrollment in Takoda Prep (High
School)
October 16: Takoda Institute quarterly graduation
December 1: Start of the Takoda Institute winter
quarter
Dawn Paro
2014 sHoRt-teRM couRse scHeDuLe
The following short courses are offered on Saturdays
and evenings during the week, each for six weeks at the
given time. Please also note announcement of two other courses,
JAVA and SQL, on pages 4 and 5. Those two are currently being run for the first time.
Social Media Classes Saturday 10:00 a.m. – Noon,
Main Campus: stay coNNecteD to tHe aioic
October 25 – December 6 (No class Nov. 29) Social media is an excellent way to stay informed and
connected with us to find out about news, events, graduations, training dates, cultural stories and much more. A+ & N+ Classes Saturday, A+ from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00
a.m., N+ from 11:15 a.m. – 1:15 p.m, Room B,
Coliseum: www.Facebook.com/AmericanIndianOIC
and www.Facebook.com/TakodaGroup
October 25 – December 6 (No class Nov 29) A+ Classes: Mondays, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Coliseum, Room A: www.Twitter.com/aioic
October 27 – December 1 www.LinkedIn.com, search “American
Indian OIC” in the “companies” category
N+ Classes: Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Coliseum, Room A:
October 29 – December 10 Visit takoda.aioic.edu and check out this user-friendly
site, which continues to be updated with news, events,
class schedules and much more. Prakash Adiani
Education Director, Postsecondary
10
fiNaNciaL aiD Notes
The Takoda Institute of Higher Education is now
accepting applications for the winter quarter, which
will start on December 1. Orientations for new and for
returning students are held on the first day of the quarter, with times set aside for each group.
To become a long-term student, you must complete
these five steps: (1) have your GED or high school
diploma; (2) take the entrance test (TABE); (3) meet
with a Student Service Representative to review your
test scores and to complete your initial paperwork; (4)
meet with the Financial Aid Officer to complete applications for financial aid; and (5) meet with the
Registrar to register for classes.
Amy Kadrmas
To test, be at AIOIC on any Tuesday afternoon at 1:30.
(No appointment needed.) The entrance test covers
math and reading, and lasts over two hours, with
breaks. Please call Career Services at Ext. 171 for more
information about the testing process if you need additional assistance.
AIOIC has 33 years of experience in training and placing students into full-time employment. Each of our
students receives individual attention, with special
focus on his or her needs and learning styles. Our programs are up to nine months in length and offer
a quick entry into the employment market.
Those students interested in attending school in the
winter quarter must complete the federal financial aid
forms and provide a copy of federal tax returns if they
filed them. Due to Minnesota State budget concerns
and those of some tribal grant programs, those
enrolling for fall or later quarters should test and apply
for funding well before their expected start date to
secure sufficient funding for their first quarter. Our campus is centrally located at the intersection of
Franklin and Cedar Avenues, with access to many bus
routes and direct access to the Franklin Avenue Light
Rail Station. Our campus also offers limited free parking for students and guests. A second site is located at
2700 East Lake Street, in the Coliseum Building.
For more information, contact us at 612-341-3358 Ext.
171, or me at Ext. 146.
Please contact our financial aid office if you have questions about your eligibility or about our programs and
assistance in meeting costs. We offer financial aid sessions at set times and by request.
Amy Kadrmas, (amyl@aioic.org)
GIVE TO AIOIC: Providing Opportunities. Changing Lives.
American Indian OIC appreciates the generosity of the readers of the SPIRIT. Contributions by individuals or
corporations help us to serve the students and other customers and to help them become self-sufficient. Your
donation is tax-deductible. Thank you.
Name: ____________________________________________
Address: __________________________________________
City, State and Zip: __________________________________
Phone: ___________ email: ___________ Contribution: ________
you may want to send:
$100 ________
$50 ________
$25 ________
$15 ________
Send to: AIOIC, 1845 E. Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55404. Phone is 612-341-3358.
11
AMERICAN INDIAN OIC
SPIRIT
1845 East Franklin Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55404-2221
PUT STAMP
HERE
aNotHeR eMPLoyeR Visit
In July, we invited a University of Minnesota
Physicians (UMPhysicians) staff member who does
hiring for their clinics throughout the Twin Cities, to
come to talk to an audience of over 20 Health
Information Technology Specialist program students
and some students from our other college partnerships.
The employer representative discussed the organization, jobs they have available, and what is the best way
to market your medical and transferrable skills.
Students were given tips on cover letters, resumes and
other ways on how they can stand out to an employer. Students asked great questions and many were excited
to possibly apply for jobs with UMPhysicians when
they begin to work with our employment services team.
Barb Hydeen, Business Development Strategist Zachary (last name withheld by request) of
UMPhysicians was the guest presenter on July 22.