inside t is issue From SJCto Medical School

san juan college
march/april 2011
volume 31, issue 2
communicator
2
Help Map the Course
for SJC’s Future
3
Hall of Fame Recipients
to be Honored
4
SJC Implements Student
Safe Zone
5
6
7
8
Entertainment and Art
Chautauqua Season Finale
One-Act Play Festival
Campus Calendar
in s i d e t h i s iss ue
san juan college’s community news and events
the san juan college
communicator
Published Bimonthly by MARKETING AND
PUBLIC RELATIONS, 566-3205
Dr. Carol J. Spencer, President
SJC Board: Evelyn B. Benny, Shane Chance,
Kenneth Hare, Chad King, Dr. Joseph Pope,
Eva B. Stokely, John Thompson.
Linda Baker, Editor • Rhonda Schaefer, Managing Editor
• Linda Kaleta, Designer
From SJC to Medical School –
Two Alumni Built a Foundation for Success
A
strong focus on student success helped two former San Juan
College students get a jump start on medical school.
Tina Mix, a 2004 graduate of San Juan College’s nursing program,
started her road to a successful medical career at SJC. Mix always
wanted to be a doctor, but began her college education close to home.
San Juan College offered her an opportunity for one-on-one instruction
with smaller class sizes at a fraction of the cost of a major university.
“The instructors at San Juan College were awesome,” Mix says.
“They excel at not only teaching you nursing skills, but also at instilling
the ethical and moral values of the job you are about to take on.”
Mix studied nursing while in high school and became a certified nursing assistant after graduating from Piedra Vista High School in 2001.
“Tina was very young when she came to us,” recalls Nisa Bruce,
director of the SJC Nursing program. “She graduated with an associate’s degree in nursing three years out of high school, which is pretty
amazing.”
Mix passed her boards and moved to Albuquerque to pursue a
nursing career. Once she got settled, she applied to medical school at
the University of New Mexico. She began the program last summer, with
a solid foundation in medicine.
“Being a registered nurse proved extremely valuable,” says Mix.
“San Juan College really does provide that awesome foundation. The
instructors mentor and guide you through the process.”
“We’re very proud of her accomplishments,” commends Bruce,
adding the majority of nursing students are focused on success. “Tina is a
perfect example of a student who is taking that success to a new level.”
Another former San Juan College student, Timothy Matt Robinson,
also is a student in the UNM medical program. Robinson began his studies at San Juan College, originally focusing on completing prerequisites
to attend law school.
In 2004, Robinson graduated from Piedra Vista High School and
headed off to New Mexico State University. He was there for a short
time, before returning home to Farmington. “My eyes were bigger than
my stomach,” he recalls, referring to the large university campus.
Robinson enrolled at San Juan College. “From the smaller class sizes
to the caring instructors, SJC was better suited to my needs,” he says.
In 2005, Robinson’s grandfather underwent major surgery, which
opened his mind to the world of medicine. At that point, he started taking biology and chemistry courses.
Robinson continued studying at San Juan College for a year and
then transferred to medical school at UNM.
“I’m especially appreciative of the time and energy that the instructors at SJC invested into my education,” he says. “They cared about
whether or not you did your work, and that’s exactly what I needed at
the time. It was nice to have that nudge to make sure you were building
a solid foundation for a successful future.”
By Debra Mayeux
Pictured Above: Tina Mix and Matt Robinson gained a solid foundation at SJC for their journey to medical school. Mix completed the Certified Nursing Assistant program
and then earned her associate’s degree in Nursing at SJC before transferring to medical school at UNM. Robinson found success by completing an array of prerequisites and
science courses before transferring to UNM, where he is also enrolled in medical school. Robinson photo courtesy of Luke Frank, Media Relations manager, UNM Health
Sciences Center.
FROM THE
PRESIDENT
T
from the
president’s
desk Dr. Carol Spencer
his is a busy semester not only for our students, but
also for our staff and faculty who are working diligently
to develop a strategic plan for the institution, as well as
complete the portfolio for the Academic Quality Improvement
Program, which is our accreditation process based on
quality values.
Members of the Strategic Planning committee started
their work this semester by seeking input on the College’s
vision and mission, with the belief that only with an updated
view of our future and our purpose could we move forward
confidently with plans for the future. Putting into words what
we do, how we fit into the San Juan County community and
beyond, and where we want to go will guide the work not
only of this group, but of the institution as a whole. This
spring, I hope to bring forward these new statements for
board approval and then to unveil them to the public.
Planning is being led by an oversight team comprised
of representatives from the College community. Team
members are working with information gathered through
a comprehensive environmental “scan,” economic
development report and evaluation of future needs that
takes into account the current state of the economy, as well
as projected higher education needs.
This plan will guide our decision making well into
the future and will be a roadmap for continuous quality
improvement, which we document in the portfolio we
develop for accreditation purposes. About 11 years ago
the institution opted to take a more quality approach to
accreditation, rather than the traditional report submitted
every 10 years.
We made the commitment to work continuously on
examining, analyzing and evaluating the systems we
use to do our work. The Academic Quality Improvement
Program (AQIP) assumes there is a never-ending process
to improvement and requires the institution to evaluate
processes in nine categories:
Helping Students Learn,
Accomplishing Other Distinct Objectives,
Understanding Students’ and Other Stakeholders Needs,
Valuing People,
Leading and Communicating,
Supporting Institutional Operations,
Measuring Effectiveness,
Planning Continuous Improvement and
Building Collaborative Relationships
Each team will identify critical gaps in achieving
quality standards and will develop a plan to address any
weaknesses. Through the remainder of the spring and
summer, category teams will make recommendations, track
progress and will come together to prepare the final report,
due in November. Hard work, but with tremendous returns.
I look forward to sharing results with you over the next year.
Recognizing Excellence
S
an Juan College presented
the Annabelle R. Friddle
Award for Faculty Excellence
to Christopher Strouthopoulos,
assistant professor of English,
during the College’s spring
Christopher Strouthopoulos
convocation ceremonies.
Known as an instructor who makes learning fun,
Strouthopoulos gives students the confidence to succeed
and creates a learning environment open to a variety of
learning styles.
This is the 13th year the Friddle Award has been
presented to an outstanding faculty member. It carries a
$2,500 stipend. Recipients are nominated by students and
selected by a student panel. The award was established
through the College Foundation by Annabelle Friddle, who
lives in Aztec.
For the 15th year, San Juan College recognized
four employees with the President’s Mission Award for
demonstrating a high level of service, going above
expectations and demonstrating a positive attitude.
Jack Ensor, adjunct instructor of safety in the School
of Energy, was honored with the Mission Award for adjunct
faculty. Ensor has good rapport with his students of all ages
and is known for his positive attitude and joyful spirit.
Donna Ellis, administrative assistant for the Teacher
Education program, received the award in the support staff
category. Ellis is not only highly organized and productive,
but is also welcoming to visitors and students and essential
to the department.
Patty Goff, assistant professor of the Administrative
Office Assistant program, received the faculty Mission
Award. Goff has taught at San Juan College for 18 years.
She has a combination of dedication, knowledge and wit
that has endeared her to students and colleagues alike. She
helps students experience a real-life work environment that
prepares them for the work world.
The award for professional staff went to Sherri Gaugh,
registrar, who began work at the college in July 2009. Gaugh
is energetic, quick on her feet, and exemplifies a great
attitude. Her priority always is to better serve students.
Also, the Golden Sun Award, a peer-to-peer award
given twice a year to an employee who exhibits outstanding
commitment to the College’s mission and vision, was
presented to Will Gray, assistant professor of English. He
was selected for the award by last semester’s recipient
Cheryl Trujillo for the impact he made when she took an
online English class from him.
The 2011 President’s Mission awardees were recognized for a high
level of service. Pictured standing, left to right: Patty Goff, Jack
Ensor and Sherri Gaugh. Seated, left to right: Donna Ellis and Dr.
Carol Spencer.
Community Input Encouraged – Help Map the Course for SJC’s Future
W
ith input from the San Juan County community, San Juan College students, faculty
and staff, San Juan College is embarking on
a strategic planning process that will keep it
on track to continue to meet the educational
needs of the community for years to come.
The San Juan College Board of Trustees established
four themes to help synthesize the gathered information into
a framework for the 2011-2015 strategic plan.
These themes will help set priorities for action:
• Accessible quality education
• Partnerships and collaboration
• Sound fiscal stewardship
• An internal community of trust, mutual respect and inclusion
2
Planning will be led by an oversight team comprised of
representatives from the College community. Team members
are working with information gathered through a comprehensive environmental “scan,” economic development report and evaluation of future needs that takes into account
the current state of the economy, as well as projected higher
education needs.
“In order to remain viable in the community and to
stay ahead of emerging needs, the College must have a
plan that will guide our decision making,” explains College
president Dr. Carol J. Spencer. “We anticipate that resources
will continue to be limited and there will be challenges both
externally and internally. For instance, we must respond to
the high unemployment rates in our county and be prepared
to help train and re-train our area workforce.”
san juan college communicator I March/April 2011 I www.sanjuancollege.edu
“In addition, our student body is growing more
ethnically diverse, and we understand that although more
students enroll to complete a degree, a significant number
do not complete their studies,” she continues.
Instead of responding to challenges, the strategic plan
will allow the institution to take a deliberate and proactive
approach to lead the way in providing the highest quality
higher education.
The oversight group is currently evaluating the
College’s vision and mission statements and inviting input
from the community. To view the proposed statements, go to
the College’s web site at www.sanjuancollege.edu and select
the “Strategic Planning” link under News. Input can be sent
to SPOT@sanjuancollege.edu.
DEVELOPMENT
2011 Hall of Fame Recipients to be Honored
T
he San Juan College Foundation’s Hall of Fame will pay tribute to five people who have contributed to the growth and excellence of the College over its history. On Thursday, March 17, at 7 p.m. in the Little Theatre, the Hall of Fame will recognize the achievements of Elizabeth “Betty” Brock, Kay Brown, James
“Jim” Childers, John Collins and D. Craig Walling.
This is the 14th year the San Juan College Foundation has presented these awards.
Kay Brown
retired as administrative assistant in the School of Science in June 2009 after working more than
25 years at San Juan College. While at San Juan College she was the recipient of the President’s Mission Award, the Fran Sandoval Staff
Excellence Award and the Golden Sun Award. Kay’s friendly smile, compassion and attention to detail were a perfect fit for her job.
Elizabeth “Betty” Brock
joined San Juan College in 1973. She was a valuable asset to the San
Juan College nursing program for over 25 years, helping the program achieve full accreditation. Betty shared her passion for the art and science of nursing
with the many students at San Juan College. She received the College’s Lou and Ruth Allison Faculty Excellence Award in 1993.
James “Jim” Childers
started an 18-year career with San Juan College in 1976,
teaching speech, English and creative writing, as well as directing the drama department in the Little Theatre. His philosophy when it came
to directing was to include any student who wanted to act. The San Juan College drama group “Playhouse in the Sun” staged more than 37
productions. After almost 40 years as an educator, Jim retired in 1994. He passed away in 2004.
John Collins
joined San Juan College as adjunct welding instructor in 1981. He was hired full time in January 1982 and
was promoted to coordinator of the welding department in 1995. He filled in as interim dean of Trades and Technology in the fall of 2007 and served as
Fire Science coordinator for two years. John received numerous awards while at the College and after 27 years of service retired in December 2009.
D. Craig Walling
began serving on the San Juan College Foundation board in 1986. He served
on the College’s Board of Trustees for over 11 years beginning in 1999, including chairman from 2001 to 2009. While serving on the
Foundation board, Craig chaired a $3 million capital challenge, the biggest fund-raising effort the College had attempted to date. He and his
team garnered pledges from corporations and individuals to achieve the goal. Craig retired in from Arizona Public Service in 2002 where he
served as plant manager for 16 years.
The Hall of Fame evening will include a reception and presentation of awards to honorees. The event is open to the public.
For more information, contact the SJC Foundation at 566-3200.
By Carrie Thompson
Dr. Pamela Miller Joins SJC as Associate VP for Learning
D
r. Pamela Miller has been named associate vice
president for learning at San Juan College.
Dr. Miller earned her Ph.D. in educational leadership
from Western Michigan University. She also holds a master’s
degree in career and technical education from Ferris State
University in Michigan, a bachelor’s degree in business
administration from DePaul University in Chicago and an
associate’s degree from Moraine Valley Community College
in Illinois.
Dr. Miller’s career in higher education has
encompassed strategic planning, new academic programs,
curriculum development and distance learning, to name
only a few. Particularly, she embraces continuous quality
improvement and is a quality peer reviewer for the Higher
Learning Commission. She also has extensive experience in
the assessment of student learning, which will complement
the work at San Juan College to ensure students reach their
full potential.
Before coming to San Juan College, Dr. Miller served
as the executive director of academic affairs and director
of program management at Davenport University in Grand
Rapids, Michigan, and previously served as the lead faculty
and program coordinator for the Office Systems program at
Lansing Community College.
At San Juan College, she will be responsible for projects
including accreditation portfolio development, learning
assessment, faculty development, the College centers in
Aztec and Kirtland, academic scheduling and innovation in
developmental education.
“Dr. Miller brings 15 years of senior leadership
experience, program planning and assessment expertise
and a ‘can-do’ approach,” comments Dr. Sher Hruska, vice
president for learning. “She has been here only a few weeks,
yet she is already having a positive impact on our priority
projects. I am thrilled to have her working with us on both
learning and college-wide activities.”
www.sanjuancollege.edu I March/April 2011 I san juan college communicator
3
BIG
on student success
New Pottery Kilns Offer
Creativity and Energy Savings
W
Student Beau Betoni, Pottery Program director Don Ellis, and adjunct pottery instructor
Jimmy Maes, demonstrate the new gas-fired Geil Kiln, which is expected to save 40 percent
in energy costs.
ith the recent purchase of two new kilns, San Juan College pottery students have the
advantage of learning about a variety of firing techniques and utilizing greener technology.
“There are a lot of different firing techniques with clay,” explains Don Ellis, pottery program
director and instructor. “Most schools stick to one type; however, San Juan College now provides
students with virtually every firing technique.”
A new state-of-the art gas-fired Geil kiln replaces a 20-year-old brick kiln. Students use this
kiln for traditional high fire techniques. Built with highly reflective material, the new equipment
is expected to save an average of 40 percent in energy costs. The Geil brand kiln also includes
light weight nitride bonded shelves that are thinner, allow for more useable space and take less
time to heat – adding to the energy efficiency. With the space age material, it uses less natural
gas than the older brick kiln.
Rated as one of the best kilns in the industry, it was funded through the 2009 Clean Energy Demonstration Program Grant. The energy wise grant is part of the Federal Sustainable Living Initiative,
which is given to states to promote wise energy use. SJC received the grant in August, 2009.
“The new kiln will no doubt prove beneficial to students and their art, but will also serve the
environment and the college well in energy efficient use of petroleum based fuels,” Ellis says.
An Anagama wood-fired kiln also was recently added to the pottery program, allowing
students to learn a method that was not previously available at SJC.
“The wood-fired kiln provides students the opportunity to discover the traditions, techniques and technology behind the age old Japanese art of wood-fired ceramics,” Ellis explains.
“Firing this kiln takes three days of constant care and monitoring.”
SJC is now the only college or university in New Mexico to have this type of on-site wood-fired kiln.
“We are fortunate to be able to provide these incredible learning and artistic opportunities
for our students,” Ellis says. “They have an amazing venue to explore their creativity.” By Debra Mayeux
Get a Head Start on a Career in Health Care
I
nterested in a career in health care? High school graduates, GED recipients and college
students will want to be a part of the San Juan College Pathways Summer Bridge Program for
Health Careers, June 5 –17. Students will meet Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
with weekend and evening activities. Applications are due April 29.
“Students will get a chance to explore a variety of careers in health care – from nursing to physical therapy to surgical technician,” explains Tonya Nelson, cultural connections
coordinator with the Pathways Program. “They also will come away with an understanding of
the education required for the various careers, as well as the salaries and what an average
workday would be like.”
This is the third year the program is being offered. Students participate in workshops and
courses to learn ways to strengthen study skills and how to access College resources such as
tutoring, financial aid and career planning. The program also provides networking opportunities that help students become familiar with the College faculty and staff.
Participants will take part in a variety of activities including clinic tours, math and reading
review for science courses; as well as learn more about the history of Native American health-
care in the Four Corners area, native plants used for medicinal purposes, and time management
skills – to name a few. Other events include a cultural trip, river rafting, ropes challenge course,
a day trip to Monument Valley, Utah, as well as family day activities and picnics.
Funded through a U.S. Department of Education Title III grant, the program is free to
participants. Free residential housing and transportation to events from Navajo Prep School will
be provided, as will breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Requirements include being 18 years of age (participants must be 18 years of age or
older by June 5, 2011), GED recipient or college student who is interested in a healthcare career. The program is limited to 35 students, so those interested should get their application in
as soon as possible. Participants are not required to be a student or plan on attending San Juan
College to take part in the program.
Applications are due April 29, and may be picked up at San Juan College’s Center for Student Engagement or can be sent to participants by mail, email or fax. For further information or
for an application, contact Tonya Nelson at 505-566-3220 or nelson@sanjuancollege.edu.
SJC Implements Student Safe Zone
I
n an effort to ensure a safe learning environment for students who are gay, lesbian, bisexual,
transgender or questioning (GLBTQ), San Juan College has initiated the Safe Zone Ally program.
Last fall, Marcia Sterling-Penn, director of student activities, received approval from David
Eppich, vice president for student services, and president Dr. Carol J. Spencer to establish San
Juan College as a “Safe Zone.” Based on the idea that change starts one person at a time,
Sterling-Penn and Dr. Judith Palier, professor of political science and faculty co-sponsor of SJC
Out, organized the first training for a core group of 37 “allies” in January.
“We are guided by a vision of a campus community where every member has an equal
opportunity to grow and learn in a safe and open environment,” states the College’s Safe Zone
vision statement. “Through Safe Zone, we hope to promote a general atmosphere of respect on
campus, an atmosphere that welcomes diversity in many forms.”
“We did this ahead of the curve, before something tragic happens to one of our students,”
says Dr. Palier. “By and large, this is a safe campus. We are a fairly tolerant place in the middle
of a conservative community.”
Allies who complete the training affix a rainbow logo and “Safe Zone” sticker to their
office or classroom doors, indicating that students can find a safe haven within. Some faculty
have included the logo on their class syllabus. “A student told me that the first day of class, his
instructor explained the symbol and said that his classroom was one of openness and tolerance.
That was incredibly powerful for the student to know it was a safe place for him,” said Dr. Palier.
4
san juan college communicator I March/April 2011 I www.sanjuancollege.edu
In a national study reported in the Chronicle of Higher Education, about 25 percent of
lesbian, gay and bisexual students and college or university employees reported being harassed
due to their sexual orientation, as well as a third of those who identify as transgender. The University of New Mexico offers Safe Zone training, and New Mexico State University’s Sexual and
Gender Diversity Resource Center provides a safe place on campus for the GLBTQ community.
At the SJC training, allies learned about resources in the community, how to address a
student’s depression or suicidal thoughts and how to provide support to GLBTQ individuals.
Probably the most powerful was the student panel in which students describe their own journey
and how they are working to find and accept their identity.
“The whole point of the Safe Zone program is to provide a safe environment for these
students specifically,” explains Sterling-Penn. “The Student Activities office has been a safe place
and I have dealt with issues over the years that show we need to address the problem.”
The College’s nondiscrimination statement now includes “sexual orientation” and “gender
identity” in the list of equal opportunity categories. A lunch-time series through the semester will
address such topics as the biology of sexuality and the history of gay rights in the U.S.
Additional ally trainings will be held in the coming months. For more information, contact
the Office of Student Activities at 505-566-3403.
showcase
silhouette series
performances
Classic and Original Americana
March 4, 7 p.m.
Little Theatre
Singer and songwriter Jane Voss and her piano-playing partner
Hoyle Osborne will present their celebrated blend of classic and
original Americana. Joining the duo is Jim Rothermel, playing
clarinet, sax, harmonica and flute. Tickets: $15 adults, $12
students and seniors. Information: San Juan College Box Office,
505-566-3430.
march
april 2011
Get in the swing of spring with a diverse selection of
entertainment including the sounds of classic Americana
and Irish groups, as well as a grand show of circus daring
and skill. Be sure to take in the array of art shows that are
sure to entice the eye.
art shows
Slide
April 2, 7 p.m.
Performance Hall
Slide is known to win over the crowd with their energetic,
creative Irish sound. The group is living proof of how
innovation need not compromise tradition. Tickets: $15
adults, $12 students and seniors. Information: San Juan
College Box Office, 505-566-3430.
SJC Jazz Fest Concert featuring Scott Meredith
April 8, 7 p.m.
Performance Hall
Guest artist Dr. Scott Meredith, assistant professor brass area
coordinator with the University of Wyoming, will perform with the SJC
Big Band and Jazz Combo. He has performed nationally and maintains
an active schedule of performance engagements, master classes, and
clinics in the Rocky Mountain region. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 students
and seniors. Information: San Juan College Box Office, 505-566-3430.
WonderWorld –
Cirque Montage
April 9, 7 p.m.
Performance Hall
This production aims to defy the perception of
what is impossible. The group fuses strength,
flexibility and technical skill, while fostering an
appreciation for the beauty and capabilities of the
human body. Tickets: $20 adults, $18 students,
$15 seniors and children 12 and under.
SJC Concert Band and Stick People
Percussion Ensemble
April 22, 7:30 p.m.
Performance Hall
Joining the SJC Concert Band will be the Piedra Vista High
School Band under the direction of Doug Brown. The combined
groups will perform classics from the symphonic wind ensemble
repertoire. Also entertaining concert goers will be the SJC
percussion ensemble Stick People under the direction of Sara
Muhn. Tickets: $8 adults, $6 students and seniors. Information:
San Juan College Box Office, 505-566-3430.
SJC Choir Concert
April 29, 7 p.m.
Performance Hall
The Concert Choir and Company groups will rock your socks off with some of your favorite
and familiar tunes during this year’s spring concert. Tickets: $8 adults, $6 students and
seniors. Information: San Juan College Box Office, 505-566-3430.
Peggy Cloy Art Exhibit
March 18 – April 15
Henderson Fine Arts Center Art Gallery
Full of movement and color, her landscape paintings are as beautiful as the mountains
where she resides. Cloy’s sculptures will also be included in the show. An opening reception
will be held Friday, March 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. Information: Cindy McNealy, 505-566-3464.
Curt Stafford Art Show
March 24 – April 22
Humanities Gallery
You’ll feel drawn into another place through
the array of oil landscape paintings. An
opening reception will be held Thursday,
March 24, from 3 to 5 p.m. Information: Cindy
McNealy, 505-566-3464.
Spring Art Student Exhibit
April 15 – 22
Henderson Fine Arts Center Art
Gallery
This annual exhibit is always a popular show with an eclectic mix of artwork completed
by San Juan College art students. The exhibit will include an array of paintings, pottery,
sculptures and drawings. An opening reception will be held Friday, April 15, from 5:30 to 7
p.m. Information: Cindy McNealy, 505-566-3464.
Wanda Coffey and Randy Follis
Dancing Colors of the Southwest
Art Show
April 29 – May 20
Henderson Fine Arts Center Art Gallery
You’ll feel at home when you see how these
artists have worked their magic with paintings of
our magnificent local surroundings. An opening
reception will be held Friday, April 29, from 6 to 8
p.m., in the Henderson Fine Arts Center Art Gallery.
Information: Cindy McNealy, 505-566-3464.
March/April 2011 I san juan college communicator
5
campus
update
Smile! Dental Hygiene
Program Provides Preventive Services
F
Dr. Joe Simmons and a youngster give a thumps-up for the care provided during the annual Give Kids A Smile Day.
rom youngsters to adults, the San Juan College Dental
Hygiene program is making the community smile.
Alongside local dentists and orthodontists, SJC Dental
Hygiene students provided free dental care to more than 50
children, ages five to 12, during the annual Give Kids a Smile
day held in February.
Children from low-income families received a variety of
free dental services from cleanings and screenings to fillings
and crowns. This is the ninth year SJC has helped coordinate
this event in conjunction with the local dental association. The
nation-wide program, sponsored by the American Dental Association, not only provides needed services, but also raises
Explore History with SJC Chautauqua Series
E
Pictured top: Dr. Jon Hunner will present the Chautauqua performance New
Mexico’s March to Statehood, March
18. Pictured above: Fred Hampton will
portray Lt. Matthias Day in the April 30
Chautauqua performance of Buffalo Soldiers – Military Heroes of the Southwest.
xperience New Mexico history first-hand as the San Juan College Chautauqua
Series completes its 2010-2011 season with New Mexico’s March to Statehood
and Buffalo Soldiers – Military Heroes of the Southwest.
Dr. Jon Hunner, chair of the Department of History at New Mexico State
University and former director of the Public History Program, will present New
Mexico’s March to Statehood, Friday, March 18, at 7 p.m., in the Little Theatre.
New Mexico faced many obstacles, both internal and external, to winning its
official status as a state. This lecture, illustrated with photos and documents from
the time period, surveys the history of New Mexico’s progress from a territory of the
U.S. established in 1850 to a state in 1912. This lively presentation comes as New
Mexico begins a three-year celebration of its statehood centennial.
Fred Hampton portrays Lt. Matthias Day, while Van Sanders portrays Buffalo
Soldier Pvt. Sanders, Friday, April 30, at 7 p.m., in the Little Theatre.
Buffalo Soldiers – Military Heroes of the Southwest, brings the history of
the Black cavalry to life. From Medal of Honor recipients to the common trooper,
from Indian battles to battles with lawbreakers, the audience will learn how a small
number of Black troopers made a difference in the lives of law-abiding citizens.
The presentation will include more than 50 period artifacts used by the Buffalo
Soldiers.
The Chautauqua performances are free and sponsored by the New Mexico
Department of Cultural Affairs, the New Mexico Humanities Council, the Teaching
American History program administered through the Educator Support Center, the
SJC Encore Program, and the School of Humanities.
For further information, call Dr. Jimmy Miller at 334-9325, or Sha Lyn
Weisheit at 599-8771.
Radio Rave –
The sounds of
spring on KSJE
T
emperatures are warming up, and KSJE has music and
other programs for a great spring. If you’re hungry, Food
in the Four Corners may be just the thing: Every Thursday
at noon, the program highlights a local grocer, grower or
restaurant and also offers tips on healthy and sustainable
living right here in San Juan County.
Alec Baldwin on KSJE?
That’s right, when he’s not appearing on the hit TV
show, 30-Rock, Emmy-award winning actor Alec Baldwin
hosts The New York Philharmonic This Week, Sundays, at
8 p.m., on KSJE. The New York Philharmonic is the oldest
symphony orchestra in the U.S dating back to 1842. Along
with music director Alan Gilbert, the show features programs
taken from the Philharmonic’s international tours, their
Summertime Classics Series, and their residency at Bravo!
Vail Valley Music Festival in Colorado. Just last year, the New
York Philharmonic performed its 15,000th concert.
6
awareness about the importance of access to dental care.
Adults also have an opportunity to receive dental care.
The program’s clinic provides adults and teens with excellent
preventive services, including cleanings, X-rays, examinations, oral cancer screenings, sealants and fluoride treatments – all at greatly reduced prices. The clinic also accepts
Medicaid for preventive services.
Clinic hours this semester are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Because this is an educational program, it does take a
little longer, but services are thorough. Call (505) 566-3126
to make an appointment.
Get Involved! –
Help Seniors with
Spring Clean-Up
G
et out your shovels and rakes and join forces
with the San Juan College Service Learning program to help with the annual Spring Clean-Up
Project, Saturday, April 9, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Each year San Juan College students, faculty, employees and community volunteers gather to help local elderly
residents who need help with spring cleaning chores in their
yard. Volunteers team-up to rake leaves, trim bushes and
branches, prepare flower beds and garden soil for planting,
and other minor outdoor spring cleaning chores that senior
residents may not be able to physically do on their own.
SJC horticulture students and instructors also offer their
expertise to ensure that trees and bushes are trimmed and
pruned correctly.
“Last year, approximately 50 volunteers helped 25
families,” recalls Mip van Suchtelen, San Juan College
Service Learning coordinator. “While we were able to assist a
good number of people last year, there were still others who
were in need. This year we’re hoping to recruit additional
volunteers so that we can lend a hand to even more seniors.
A project like this is a perfect opportunity to give back to the
community.”
Students and volunteers who assisted last year
received an equal benefit – the satisfaction of making a
difference for someone. “It makes you feel good when you
see just how delighted the seniors were to receive our help,”
says Christopher Begay, SJC student who participated in
2010 as part of a Service Learning assignment.
Residents, who need help with spring clean-up chores,
may request an application to be considered for the project.
For further information about the Spring Clean-Up project,
to volunteer or to request a Spring Clean-Up application,
contact Mip van Suchtelen, at 566-3120, or via e-mail at
vansuchtelem@sanjuancollege.edu.
Alec Baldwin hosts the New York Philharmonic This Week
Listen Quick!
These programs will only be aired for a few more weeks
on KSJE: they include:
• The Gilmore International Keyboard Festival: Sundays, at
11 a.m.
• The New York Festival of Song: No Song is Safe from
Us: Sundays, at 12 p.m.
To listen live or for further information on these shows
or others, go to www.ksje.com.
san juan college communicator I March/April 2011 I www.sanjuancollege.edu
A team helps at a local senior citizen’s home by raking leaves
during last year’s Spring Clean-Up project.
SJC
in the community
Nature Sparks Children’s
Learning
The great outdoors has more benefits
for children than a parent can
imagine. This is the focus of the book
Nature Sparks: Connecting Children’s
Learning to the Natural World.
The book is the third and final in
a series of children’s theory books
written by Aerial Cross, San Juan
College adjunct English instructor
and early childhood educator. Nature
Sparks helps parents and educators
understand the importance of helping
children reclaim nature.
“Nature has monumental power
on children’s growth and development,
explains Cross, who is also a mother
of three. “They experience profound
benefits that outdoor play provides –
from discovering interests and expending
natural energy to helping them cope with more challenging concerns such as emotional or health issues.”
Nature Sparks provides ideas that both parents and teachers can incorporate at home or in
the classroom. Cross incorporates Howard Garner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences to encourage
children’s individual talents. The book also includes ideas for more than 50 sensory-integrated
activities, crafts and instructional strategies.
“For instance, the simple activity of getting children to work with mud can unleash their creativity,” Cross continues. “They can create a ‘mud restaurant and menu’ and serve up ‘mud pies,
mud cakes or cocoa.’”
Fort making is another creative outlet she suggests. Hanging an old sheet over a clothesline is
an inexpensive way to encourage children to discover and learn. She gives other examples including planting theme gardens – such as a ‘tea garden,’ where they plant chamomile and lemon or
mint spices.
Nature Sparks will be available this summer at www.RedleafPress.org or at www.amazon.com.
Cross will continue writing books with a focus moving toward adult non-fiction.
Mark Your Calendar for 4th Annual
Play Festival
Explores Creativity
F
rom zombies and vampires to the Beat poets of the 1950s to the Gospel of Mark
from the Bible, San Juan College Theatre Department will offer a gamut of theatrical
events in Farmington on the Fringe: A Festival Exploring the Edges of Creativity, April 14
– 24, in the Little Theatre and Black Box Theatre.
Four, one-act plays will be directed by theatre students, including: Shannon Boettler,
Kimberly Cassels, Edward Hasenbalg, and Lauren Jacquez. Other one-act play directors
include Rebecca Krebbs and Theresa A. Carson, SJC director of Theatre. Carson will
direct Glengarry Glen Ross, a drama by David Mamet that takes a hard look at the cutthroat, competitive world of real estate in Chicago in the 1980s.
“We are including a unique aspect to this year’s event,” Carson explains. “Students
in other disciplines will be involved in the festival as well.”
Danielle Sullivan’s freshman composition class will write short plays and dialogues
based on the course themes of vampires and zombies. The Beat poets are the theme
for students in Traci HalesVass’ advanced composition course. They will present a
re-creation of a City Lights poetry reading with short pieces from Jack Kerouac, Allen
Ginsberg, and William Burroughs. Students in Kimberly William’s creative writing course
will read their original poems.
Local playwrights also will add to the event. Debra Doggett wrote and will direct the
play Rage, which is based on the trial of a young man involved in a school shooting. It
delves into the ways we are all connected and what happens when one of us becomes
lost. Melissa Gutierrez addresses a similar theme in her play, The Best Day of Their
Lives. The piece deals with the direct aftermath of a public shooting and the debilitating
consequences it has on a high school teacher and his wife. English instructor Denise
Hinson’s play Phantom Pain takes place in a deserted cafe in New Mexico, where Emily
works as a waitress and hides a dark secret from everyone.
Farmington’s local community theatre Theatre Ensemble Arts will present a play
written by local award winning playwright Judy Castleberry. The Yard Sale is about the
three mythological Sister Fates. Through the unlikely setting of a yard sale, these three
sisters examine the threads of a woman’s life and debate over her ultimate fate.
Local actor and playwright Charles Pike will perform the one-man show, The Book of
Mark, the story of one man’s journey into eternity. Ever wonder how to feed 5,000 guests
who just happen to pop in for dinner? How to walk on water? Ever try to give swimming
lessons to 2,000 pigs? These are just some of the complex perplexities encountered in
The Book of Mark.
To celebrate SJC’s inaugural year of One Book/One Community, an evening titled
Creative Voices will focus on the book, Montana 1948. One Book/One Community is
holding a writing contest for alternate endings to the novel. Entrants will submit a scene
or short play exploring their view of what could or should have happened at the end of
the novel. The winners’ plays will come to life at the festival. Accompanying alternate
endings is Memories of 1948, an act of storytelling in which local residents share their
memories of the year 1948.
Watch for further information on times and locations of the events. For further information, contact Theresa A. Carson, SJC director of Theatre, at 566-3242. For tickets,
call the San Juan College Box Office at 566-3430.
SJ C Contest Pow-Wow
J
oin the festivities when the San Juan College Native American Center hosts the fourth annual
San Juan College Contest Pow-Wow, Friday, April 1, and Saturday, April 2, at the McGee Park
Memorial Coliseum on the San Juan County Fairgrounds.
April 1 events begin with registration at 3 p.m., followed by a gourd dance at 5 p.m. and the
grand entry at 7 p.m.
April 2, the doors open to the public at 8 a.m. Registration and gourd dancing begins at 10
a.m., followed by grand entries at noon. A final gourd dance session will begin at 6 p.m., and the
final grand entry at 7 p.m.
The head gourd dancer at this year’s event is Andrew Frost of the 4-Corners Gourd Society in
Ignacio, Colo., with the Long Walk Descendents of Hogback, serving as the southern host drum and
Sun Eagle of Shiprock serving as the northern host drum.
Contest divisions include tiny tots, juniors, adults, seniors and drum groups, in the categories
of Jingle, Fancy Shawl, Traditional, Fancy and Grass. The Pow-Wow will include a variety of arts,
crafts and food. General admission to the Pow Wow is $6 or $10 for a two-day pass; $4 for senior
citizens and persons with disabilities or $6 for a two day pass; and $1 for children five years of
age and younger. Arts and Crafts Booth rental is $80.
The San Juan College Contest Pow-Wow is an alcohol and drug-free event.
For further information, to register for the event or reserve space for an arts and crafts
booth, call the San Juan College Native American Program at 505-566-3321.
There will be fun, excitement and surprises when the SJC Theatre Department presents the
One-Act Play Festival. Pictured above, left to right, theatre students Lauren Jacquez, Shannon
Boettler, Ed Hasenbalg and Kimberly Cassels will direct four of the plays.
www.sanjuancollege.edu I March/April 2011 I san juan college communicator
7
March 4, 7 p.m.
Classic and Original Americana. Little Theatre.
Tickets: $15 adults, $12 students and seniors. Information: San
Juan College Box Office, 505-566-3430.
campus calendar
march/april, 2011
March 11, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.
AstroFriday – Speed. Stargaze follows at 8:30 p.m., weather
April 2, 7 p.m.
permitting. Seating is limited. SJC Planetarium room 1723.
San Juan College Silhouette Series – Slide.
Free. Information: David Mayeux, 566-3361, or mayeuxd@
Henderson Fine Arts Center Performance Hall. Tickets: $15
sanjuancollege.edu.
adults, $12 students and seniors. Information: San Juan College
March 11, 7 p.m.
Box Office, 505-566-3430.
SJC Outdoor Recreation Program presents
Adventure Movie Night – Showing of Respect, a film about April 8, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.
AstroFriday – Destination Tomorrow – Titan. Stargaze
skiing; and Oil and Water, which takes a look at kayaking and
follows at 8:30 p.m., weather permitting. Seating is limited. SJC
alternative fuel. Zia room. Free. Information: J.D. Tanner, 566Planetarium room 1723. Free. Information: David Mayeux, 5663487, or TannerJ@sanjuancollege.edu.
3361, or mayeuxd@sanjuancollege.edu.
March 18, 10 – 11 a.m.
San Juan College Sungaze – See sunspots, prominences,
flares and other daytime astronomy. San Juan College Courtyard
located in front of the Little Theatre. Free. Information: David
Mayeux, 566-3361, or mayeuxd@sanjuancollege.edu.
April 8, 7 p.m.
April 15 - 22
Spring Art Student Exhibit – Opening reception, Friday,
April 15, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., in the Henderson Fine Arts Center
Art Gallery. Information: Cindy McNealy, 505-566-3464.
April 18
Pre-registration begins for all continuing SJC and Dual Credit
(high school) students.
April 22, 10 – 11 a.m.
San Juan College Sungaze – See sunspots, prominences,
flares and other daytime astronomy. San Juan College Courtyard
located in front of the Little Theatre. Free. Information: David
Mayeux, 566-3361, or mayeuxd@sanjuancollege.edu.
Spring Holiday. Campus Closed.
April 22, 7:30 p.m.
San Juan College Silhouette Series – Jazz Fest
San Juan College Silhouette Series – SJC Concert
Concert featuring Scott Meredith. Henderson Fine Arts Center
Performance Hall. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 students and seniors. Band and Stick People Percussion Ensemble.
Henderson Fine Arts Center Performance Hall. Tickets: $8
Information: San Juan College Box Office, 505-566-3430.
adults, $6 students and seniors. Information: San Juan College
April 8, 7 p.m.
Box Office, 505-566-3430.
SJC Outdoor Recreation Program presents
April 29 – May 20
Adventure Movie Night – Showing of Roam, a film about
Wanda Coffey and Randy Follis
mountain biking; and Nature Propelled, a multi-sport film
Dancing Colors of the Southwest
that includes base-jumping, skiing and others. Zia room. Free.
Information: J.D. Tanner, 566-3487, or TannerJ@sanjuancollege.edu. Art Show – Opening reception, Friday,
April 29, from 6 to 8 p.m., Fine Arts Center
April 9, 7 p.m.
Art Gallery. Information: Cindy McNealy,
San Juan College Silhouette Series – WonderWorld 505-566-3464.
– Cirque Montage. Henderson Fine Arts Center Performance
Hall. Tickets: $20 adults, $18 students, $15 seniors and children April 29, 7 p.m.
San Juan College Silhouette Series – SJC Choir
12 and under. Information: San Juan College Box Office, 505Concert. Henderson Fine Arts Center Performance Hall.
566-3430.
Tickets: $8 adults, $6 students and seniors. Information: San
April 11
Juan College Box Office, 505-566-3430.
Pre-registration begins for degree seeking, continuing
April 30, 7 p.m.
students only.
San Juan College Chautauqua Series – Fred Hampton
April 14 - 24 San Juan College Silhouette
presents Buffalo Soldiers – Military Heroes of the
Series – One-Act Festival. Little Theatre and Black Box
Southwest. Little Theatre. Free. Information: Jimmy Miller, 505Theatre. Tickets: $5 per show or $20 punch card for 6 shows.
334-9325 or Sha Lyn Weisheit, 505-599-8771.
Information: San Juan College Box Office, 505-566-3430.
Art Gallery Hours:
Library Hours: March 18 – April 15
Peggy Cloy Art Show – Opening reception, Friday, March
18, from 6 to 8 p.m., in the Henderson Fine Arts Center Art
Gallery. Information: Cindy McNealy, 505-566-3464.
March 18, 7 p.m.
San Juan College Chautauqua Series – Dr. Jon
Hunner presents New Mexico’s March to Statehood.
Little Theatre. Free. Information: Jimmy Miller, 505-334-9325 or
Sha Lyn Weisheit, 505-599-8771.
March 21 – 27
Spring Break. No classes held.
March 24 – April 22
Curt Stafford Art Show – Opening
reception, Thursday, March 24, from
3 to 5 p.m., in the Humanities Gallery.
Information: Cindy McNealy,
505-566-3464.
March 25 – 27
Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Closed weekends
566-3464
Information
Monday - Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
566-3249
Box Office Hours: Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
566-3430
Art Gallery, Box Office and Performance Hall are located in the Henderson Fine Arts Center.
San Juan College seeks to provide equal access to its programs, services and activities for people with disabilities. Please give 48 hours notice to arrange accommodations for known
disabilities. Call 566-3430 to make arrangements.
SAN JUAN COLLEGE
4601 College Boulevard
Farmington, NM 87402
www.sanjuancollege.edu
INFORMATION 505-326-3311
8
san juan college communicator I March/April 2011 I www.sanjuancollege.edu
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