News & Events

OVER 100 COLLEGES PARTICIPATING IN ANNUAL COLLEGE FAIR
[Released 10/2/08] The Annual College Fair with over 100 colleges participating is Tuesday, October 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Prairie State College. The College Fair is an opportunity for high school seniors and their parents to talk with college representatives about the college preparation process and admissions. Transfer students also can discover more about four year colleges and universities during the event.

The fair is organized by the South Suburban Counselors Fair Committee, which is made up of counselors from Prairie State College, Bloom Township High School District 206, Rich Township High School District 227, Crete-Monee High School District 201-U, Peotone High School, and Marian Catholic High School.

At the College Fair, representatives from over 100 colleges will be available to answer questions ranging from entrance requirements, admission applications, tuition, financial aid, average class size and student/teacher ratio, extracurricular activities and majors, and anything else related to the college application process.

The college fair is free and open to the public and is in the atrium of Prairie State College, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights.

“All community residents are welcome and encouraged to attend the fair,” said Sarah Hein, counselor/transfer coordinator at PSC. “This is Prairie State College’s largest college fair of the year and a wonderful opportunity to research many schools at one time.”

The college fair also will include a financial aid presentation at 6:30 p.m. and information on athletic eligibility at 7:15 p.m. in the Barnes & Noble Reading Room.

Many major Illinois and out-of-state universities and colleges have already reserved a spot at the fair, including Albion College, American Academy of Art, Aquinas College, Augustana College, Aurora University, Ball State University, Blackburn College, Bradley University, Butler University, Calumet, College of St. Joseph, Carroll College, Carthage College, Creighton University, Culver Stockton College, DePaul University, Dominican University, Drake University, Eastern Illinois University, Eastern Michigan University, Elmhurst College, Ferris State University, Franklin College, Grand Valley State University, Grinnell College, Illinois College, Illinois Institute of Technology, Illinois State University, Illinois Student Assistance Commission, Illinois Wesleyan University, Indiana University-Bloomington, Indiana University- Northwest, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Iowa Wesleyan College, Joliet Junior College, Knox College, Lake Forest College, Lake View College of Nursing, Lawrence Technological University, Lewis University, Lincoln College, Loras College, Loyola University, Luther College, Marian College – Wisconsin, McKendree College, Michigan State University, Michigan Tech University, Millikin University, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Morrison Institute of Technology, Mount Mary College, Monmouth College, Northern Illinois University, Northern Michigan University, Northwestern Business College, Northwestern Business College, The Ohio State University, Olivet Nazarene University, Purdue University, Quincy University, Ranken Technical College, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Rend Lake Community College, Robert Morris College, Rockford College, Roosevelt University, Seton Hall University, Shimer College, Sienna Heights University, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, St. Ambrose University, St. Louis University, St. Joseph’s College, St. Mary’s College, St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, Trinity Christian College, Trinity International University, Truman State University, U. S. Military Academy, West Point, U. S. Merchant Marine Academy, University of Buffalo, University of Denver, University of Dubuque, University of Evansville, University of Illinois-Chicago, University of Illinois-Springfield, University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign, University of Indianapolis, University of Iowa, University of Maine, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, University of St. Francis, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Valparaiso University, Wellesley College, Western Illinois University, Western Michigan University, Western State College of Colorado, Wright State University, and Xavier University.

For more information about the fair, contact PSC’s Counseling and Academic Advising Center at (708) 709-3506.

FOSSIL, GEM, AND MINERAL SHOW RETURNS TO PSC OCT. 18-19
[Released 9/30/08] What do 350 million year old sea monsters, earrings made from tree sap, and purple crystal’s the size of a fist have in common? They will all be on display at Prairie State College’s (PSC) annual Fossil, Gem, and Mineral Show. The show will be held on Saturday, Oct. 18, and Sunday, Oct. 19, in the college’s Prairie Center gym, located at 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. Hours for the show are Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The weekend show is hosted by PSC’s Department of Natural Sciences and the South Suburban Earth Science Club (SSESC). The free family event also includes special children’s activities. Participants can view fun and exciting science demonstrations and learn about biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. Scouts can earn their geology merit badge.

During the show on Saturday, NASA Ambassador Joel Knapper will present two lectures: The Phoenix Mars Landing at 11 a.m., and the Hubble Telescope, the Last Mission at 1 p.m.

In addition to a spectacular display of fossils, shells, and minerals, dealers will be selling items such as jewelry, gem trees, opals, geodes, amethysts, crystals, and fluorescent stones.

“Whether you’re a student, a teacher, a collector, or just doing your Christmas shopping, this is a really great chance to see and purchase some really unique items,” said Lee Anne Burrough, associate professor of Earth Science at PSC.

For more information, contact Burrough at (708) 709-3500 or lburrough@prairiestate.edu or Helen Funk of the SSESC at ssescus@yahoo.com.

PSC GALLERY FEATURES REGIONAL ARTISTS; OPENS OCTOBER 10
[Released 9/26/08]The Prairie State College (PSC) Foundation presents Fiber Nine, a juried art exhibition of works by regional artists. The exhibit opens October 10 and runs through November 6.

The exhibit features 18 artists from Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio and includes a variety of contemporary art in fiber. A reception to honor the artists will be held on Friday, October 10, from 4:30 to 8 p.m., in the Christopher Art Gallery.

The juror for the exhibit is Christine LoFaso, professor of art and head of the fiber program at Northern Illinois University. LoFaso’s work has been shown in galleries and museums throughout the United States and internationally.

“The work selected by Christine LoFaso is representative of the wide range of materials that are being used by contemporary fiber artists,” said Jan Bonavia, gallery director. “The show includes traditional quilt and woven textiles, as well as more unusual media such as embroidered hair, indoor/outdoor carpeting, leaves, and cotton forms with organic salt crystals.”

Artists participating in the show are Clare Murray Adams, of Southington, Ohio; Susie Cobbledick, of Lakewood, Ohio; Erin Coleman-Cruz, of DeKalb, Ill.; Kim Jackson DeBord, of Chicago; Cheryl Eddie Deibel, of DeKalb, Ill. (image); Brownyn Elkuss, of Chicago; Robin Haller, of Cleveland, Ohio; Rumana Hawa, of Kent, Ohio (image); Deb Herman, of Oak Park, Ill. (image); Deborah Hirschfield, of Evanston, Ill.; Nikkole Huss, of Orland Park, Ill (image) .; Cathy Kasdan, of Cleveland; Janice Lessmann-Moss, of Kent, Ohio; Ruta Butkus Marino, of Beachwood, Ohio; Rana Siegel, of Chicago; Patricia Vivod, of Troy, Ill.; John Wolfer, of Cincinnati; and Summer Zickefoose, of Evansville, Ind.

The exhibit is part of the south suburbs’ annual Art Trek event. Art Trek includes more than 30 area art galleries, local businesses, and artists’ studios that will feature fine art exhibitions and demonstrations during the month of October.

The Christopher Art Gallery is located on PSC’s main campus, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. Hours for the gallery are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. Visits may also be made by appointment. For more information about the exhibit, or to make an appointment for a visit, contact the Prairie State College Foundation at (708) 709-3636.

PSC OFFERS FREE GED CLASSES
[Released 9/19/08] Prairie State College is offering free General Education Development (GED) preparation classes for the high school equivalency exam. The classes are open to those at least 16 years of age who are out of school but have not completed high school. GED graduates can pursue higher education, get better jobs or promotions, and move closer towards achieving their goals. Individuals earning a GED are more likely than high school dropouts to receive additional training and be employed full time.

Prairie State College offers classes both on-campus and at off-campus locations throughout the community. The classes prepare students to take the GED exam by covering the areas of study that are on the exam. Enrolling in GED classes requires an orientation and registration/placement assessment session, which takes approximately four hours.

Orientation and placement assessment for on-campus classes will be held on Monday, September 29, at 4:30 p.m.; Friday, October 3, at 9:30 a.m.; Monday, October 6, at 5:30 p.m.; and Friday, October 10, at 9:30 a.m. On-campus classes begin Monday, October 27. Placement assessment and classes will be held in the Adult Training & Outreach Center (ATOC) located on the College’s main campus at 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. Parking is available in Lot D off Vollmer Road.

Placement assessment and registration for off-campus classes is currently available at Crete-Monee High School and the God Can Ministries in Ford Heights on a limited availability basis. Crete-Monee High School is located at 1515 W. Exchange St., Crete, and offers placement assessment and registration on Thursday, October 16, from 5 to 8 p.m., in room B102. The God Can Ministries is located at 1100 Greenwood in Ford Heights and has open enrollment on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. All off-campus classes begin Tuesday, October 28. For more information about off-campus classes, call (708) 709-3684.

Students are advised to register early before classes fill up. Day and evening classes are available. The classes prepare students to take the GED exam covering the areas of study that are tested on the exam. Recorded general information can be obtained by calling (708) 709-7880. To reach an advisor, call (708) 709-3720, (708) 709-3721, or (708) 709-3722.

In accordance with the Stevens Amendment, the grant-funded portion of Adult Education and the Family Literacy program at Prairie State College for Fiscal Year 2009 is 29 percent financed with federal funds totaling $190,947.

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE JOB FAIR SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER 22
[Released 9/19/08] Prairie State College (PSC) is holding a job fair on Wednesday, Oct. 22, from 4 to 7 p.m., in the atrium on PSC’s main campus, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. The event is free and open to the public.

Companies and agencies who are searching for qualified employees to fill both entry- and professional-level positions will be at this fair. Among companies that are already registered for the job fair are Amtrak, Awakened Alternatives, Inc., Avon, Chicagoland Regional College Program, Comcast Cable, Davis Staffing, Fastenal, Frito-Lay, Inc., Hazel Crest Police Department, Harvey Adams State Farm Insurance, Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Department of Corrections, Illinois School Bus, Propel Chicago Investments, South Suburban PADS, T & M Daycare, Tender Touch Daycare, Village of Hazel Crest Police Department, and Walmart. To view the most up-to-date listing of employers, visit Career Development.

Job seekers should wear business attire and bring plenty of résumés. Businesses and organizations interested in taking part in the job fair can sign up until October 8. For more information about the job fair, contact Tanya Norfleet, coordinator of career development services, at (708) 709-3755 or tnorfleet@prairiestate.edu or Ramien Manson, career advisor, at (708) 709-3922 or rmanson@prairiestate.edu.

PSC TO HOST BILINGUAL INFO NIGHT
[Released 9/18/08] Spanish-speaking parents can learn more about Prairie State College (PSC) at Bilingual Spanish-Speaking Info Night on Wednesday, October 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. The event will be held in the Barnes & Noble Reading Room on PSC’s main campus, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights.

The Info Night, which will be held in Spanish, will cover a variety of topics, including an overview of academic programs including credit and non-credit, information on financial aid and admissions, English as a Second Language and GED programs, and student life and multicultural affairs.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Hispanic families to learn what PSC has to offer,” said Mildred Lopez, outreach assistant/bilingual advisor. “Parents who are more comfortable with the Spanish language can receive the information they need to discuss college with their children.”

Blanca Martinez, Chicago Heights resident and 2008 graduate of Bloom High School, found the resources she and her parents needed to plan her education at PSC.

“I chose Prairie State College because it’s a great place close to home to start a college career,” said Martinez. “Prairie State College prepares you for a four-year school.”

Those who cannot attend Info Night and would like more information about Prairie State College should call the Counseling and Academic Advising Center at (708) 709-3506.

PSC PROFESSOR VOLUNTEERS IN THE MIDDLE EAST
[Released 9/12/08] For years, his vacations were escapes to places where cares are few and comforts are many. This year, Dave Naze, Prairie State College (PSC) assistant professor of communication, went where cares are many and comforts are few.

Naze traveled more than 6,000 miles to Amman, Jordan, to volunteer with Iraqi refugees. Naze and a group of 18 people from the Living Word Church young adult group heeded a call to help more than 50 families who fled from Iraq because they were either threatened or someone in their family was killed.

“The experience was extremely exciting, eye opening, and life changing,” said Naze. “When you hear the refugees’ stories, you realize that even though our country is struggling with the economy, it pales in comparison to the issues halfway around the world.”

One of the main efforts during Naze’s trip was running a children’s summer camp for the refugees. More than 60 children ages 6-14 participated in the camp.

“It was great to experience the culture and work with the children,” said Naze. “We tried to do what we could for them. We gave them food and were there for them emotionally, but most of all, we tried to have fun.”

Naze found his experience interacting with the refugees very rewarding. He plans to travel back to the Middle East or another part of the world to volunteer and encourages others to do so.

“The people were extremely hospitable and went out of their way to make us feel welcomed,” said Naze. “My experience dispelled a lot stereotypes; it’s a trip everyone should consider.”

Naze volunteers with Iraqi refugees

LEARN NEW SKILLS WITH PSC’S NON-CREDIT CLASSES
[Released 9/10/08] Prairie State College’s array of non-credit classes provide opportunities to explore new fields of interest or revisit old ones. Classes range from medical terminology to karate and from dance to computers.

Classes are offered days, evenings, and weekends and begin at various times throughout September, October, and November. Class locations include PSC’s main campus, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights; PSC’s Matteson Area Center, 4821 Southwick Dr., Matteson; Beecher Junior High School, 101 E. Church Rd., Beecher; Rich East High School, 300 Sauk Tr., Park Forest; and Governors State University, 1 University Pkwy., University Park.

For those who want to take classes from the convenience of home, PSC also offers non-credit classes online, which start the third Wednesday of every month.

For more information about non-credit classes, call the Matteson Area Center at (708) 709-3750 or visit matteson.prairiestate.edu.

PSC HONORS COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS
[Released 9/10/08] The Prairie State College (PSC) Board of Trustees recently presented three community service awards to recognize outstanding community members. Cheryl Roop, of the Jones Memorial Community Center, and the S.T.A.R.S. (Students Testing and Achieving at Rich South) Council of Rich South High School, received the Michael R. Monteleone Community Service Award. Bryce Johnsen, a PSC graduate, received the James H. Griffith Student Community Service Award.

The Michael R. Monteleone Community Service award is named for the former PSC trustee of 21 years. Each nominee must have contributed in an extraordinary way to education through community service, as either a volunteer or a community leader.

The James H. Griffith Student Community Service award is named for the former PSC trustee of 25 years and honors a graduating student who has contributed in an extraordinary way to the community.

Both Roop and the S.T.A.R.S. Council were chosen by the PSC Board for the Michael R. Monteleone Community Service award because of their dedication to the people of the PSC community.

Representative George Scully, Jr., (D-80th District) nominated Roop for the award because of her dedication to the mission of the Jones Memorial Community Center. The center offers many activities and programs for all age groups and provides practical services to strengthen family ties, to emphasize the worth of all persons, and to answer a community need.

“Cheryl and the Jones Memorial Community Center serve a highly overlooked and underserved group of citizens,” said Scully. “They amaze me with their large scale accomplishments with little resources.”

The Village of Richton Park nominated the S.T.A.R.S. Council of Rich South High School because of their dedication to student success.

The nomination read, “The S.T.A.R.S. Council is a dedicated team of parents, businesspersons, community leaders, and educators energetically working together on behalf of the students at Rich South. Perhaps what most distinguishes the S.T.A.R.S. Council is that the members of this team are people with busy lives that still find time to show their concern for the children and school in their community. Many of the members do not even have students in school, but they possess an understanding of the importance of being part of a solution instead of just sitting back and complaining about a problem.”

The PSC Board chose Johnsen for the James H. Griffith Student Community Service Award because of his leadership and service to the PSC student body.

Johnsen served as president of the Student Government Association (SGA), organizing and participating in numerous student events. In his role as president, he attended the PSC board of trustee meetings, often addressing the board on issues relevant to students. In addition, he provided student representation and served as vice chair of PSC’s College Council. Johnsen was also sports editor of The PSC Student Messenger and a member of the Political Science Club.

“Bryce was very passionate about helping his fellow students and the college as a whole,” said Helen Manley, coordinator of student life, who nominated Johnsen. “He managed a lot, while maintaining a high GPA.”

PSC LATE START CLASSES BEGIN SEPTEMBER 19
[Released Sept 4, 2008] Busy work schedules, family obligations, and changing life situations—all can make it difficult for many to start college classes at the beginning of the semester. To help students who were unable to start classes in August, Prairie State College offers a solution with Late Start classes.

Late Start classes begin the week of September 19 and run 12 weeks instead of the usual 16 weeks. To compensate for their abbreviated schedule, Late Start classes meet longer during the week and cover the same amount of material as their 16-week counterparts. The classes also carry the same number of credits and satisfy requirements for students working toward a degree or certificate.

Late Start course offerings include art, economics, English, humanities, computers, game design, music, photography, psychology, and sociology. For a complete listing of courses, schedules are available on campus, at public libraries, and online at prairiestate.edu. Late Start classes are designated by a section code LS in the course schedule. Registration for Late Start classes is ongoing and will continue until the classes begin or reach capacity.

For more information about programs or course offerings, call the Office of Counseling & Academic Advising at (708) 709-3506.

PSC OFFERS KIDS@COLLEGE AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Prairie State College (PSC) is providing the opportunity for children to develop their study skills or learn a new language at the Kids@College After School Program. All classes are held at PSC’s Matteson Area Center, 4821 Southwick Dr., Matteson.

The Kids@College After School Program begins the week of September 15. Classes meet two days a week for eight weeks from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The cost is $139 and includes the following choices.

Spanish for Beginners teaches students basic Spanish phrases. There are two offerings for this class. Class for children ages 8-12 is held on Mondays and Wednesdays, and class for children ages 13-14 is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Sign Language for Beginners teaches students basic phrases and fingerspelling. This class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is geared to students ages 8-12.

Study Smart teaches students how to organize time to be successful in school. This class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays and also is geared to children ages 8-12.

A complete schedule of non-credit classes, including classes for young people, titled Personal & Professional, was mailed to district households and also is available on campus, at area public libraries, and online at matteson.prairiestate.edu. For more information or to register, call (708) 709-3750.

PSC ANNOUNCES TRUSTEE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2008-09 ACADEMIC YEAR
[Released September 2, 2008] Twenty-four individuals received Trustee Scholarships from Prairie State College (PSC) for the 2008-09 academic year.

The scholarships are awarded to graduates of high schools within the PSC district to recognize outstanding accomplishments, high academic achievement, and an overall commitment to personal excellence. This year, scholarships were awarded in the categories of Valedictorian, Honor, Achievement, Technical, GED Valedictorian, GED Salutatorian, and Project Hope.

“The PSC Trustee Scholarships provide both monetary support and encouragement to those students with a proven academic record of high achievement,” said Mary Reaves, vice president of student affairs.

A Trustee Valedictorian Scholarship was awarded to Emmanuel Ramirez, of Sauk Village (Bloom Trail High School), who was the valedictorian of his high school graduating class.

Trustee Honor Scholarships were awarded to students who had at least a 3.25 GPA or better in high school and completed a scholarly essay on personal achievement. This year’s winners are Erica Arechiga, of Chicago Heights (Marian Catholic High School); Ivette Covarrubias, of Chicago Heights (Bloom Township High School); Darren Heldt, of Monee (Crete-Monee High School); Ikechuwku Isewede, of Flossmoor (Homewood-Flossmoor High School); Maria Johnson, of Richton Park (Rich South High School); and Nicholas Meyer, of Beecher (Beecher High School).

Trustee Achievement Scholarships were awarded to students who had a high school grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale, completed a scholarly essay on personal achievement and demonstrated significant achievement in student leadership, community, and/or public service. This year’s winners are Mark Biagi, of Glenwood (Homewood-Flossmoor High School); Lauren Krabbe, of Chicago Heights (Marian Catholic High School); Chad Kirian, of Olympia Fields (Rich Central High School); Mayra Orozco, of South Chicago Heights (Bloom Township High School); Heather Richardson, of University Park (Crete-Monee High School); Ebony Rogers, of Olympia Fields (Rich Central High School); and Cayla Wiegele, of Beecher (Beecher High School).

Trustee Technical Scholarships were awarded to students who had a high school GPA of at least 3.0 and completed a scholarly essay on personal achievement. This year’s winners are Ashley Bedell, of Matteson (Rich South High School); Barbara Blaies, of Steger (Homewood-Flossmoor High School); Latoya Brand, of Park Forest (Rich East High School); Kenyanna Freels, of University Park (Crete-Monee High School); Kayla Lopez, of Glenwood (Bloom Township High School); Lindsay Meyer, of Chicago Heights (Marian Catholic High School); Martin Nissen, of Beecher (Beecher High School); and Brian Plough, of Country Club Hills (Rich Central High School).

Sara Tanner, of Park Forest, received a GED Valedictorian Scholarship, and Tonya Mazurkiewicz, of Chicago Heights, received a GED Salutatorian Scholarship. These two scholarships are awarded each year to the two highest-scoring graduates of PSC’s GED program.

Jeremiah Hernandez and Nicolle Trujillo, both of Chicago Heights (Bloom Township High School) received Trustee Scholarships for their participation in Project Hope, which promotes higher education among Latino students.

Board Chairman Mark Fazzini said, “It was such a pleasure to be part of the process to further the educational goals for such outstanding students from our district. The Board of Trustees was amazed by the caliber of excellence with this year’s participants from our district high schools and the GED Program.”

For more information about Trustee Scholarships, call the PSC financial aid office at (708) 709-3562.

PSC FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANTS TO BENEFIT STUDENTS
[Released September 2, 2008] The Prairie State College (PSC) Foundation annually awards nearly $100,000 in scholarships to PSC students. Sources of scholarship assistance include funds raised through foundation-sponsored events, money donated/designated from generous individuals, businesses, community organizations, and endowments with the foundation.

In addition to scholarship assistance, the foundation provides funding for special projects to enhance the learning experience of PSC students through the Special Request Fund. Established in 2006 with unrestricted donations, the fund supports learning opportunities submitted by PSC faculty and staff, which are beyond the college’s budget. The special projects funded by the foundation provide additional resources to enhance student learning.

One example is the “Tapes for Veterans History Project.” The foundation grant will make possible the purchase of mini video cassettes to record veteran interviews for archiving in the Library of Congress.

The “Human Rights Festival Speaker” project will enhance Reading 098 students’ study of genocide with a first-hand account from a Holocaust survivor.

Another opportunity made possible by the PSC foundation is a lecture by “David R. Phillips,” who discovered the historic cache of photographic prints made in Chicago. This lecture will be open to the public at a date to be announced.

The photography program will benefit from the “Photo Resource Center Film Scanner” project. It will fund equipment needed to convert 7,000 film slides to digital format for learning and analysis.

The Prairie State College Foundation is dedicated to providing assistance to talented and financially deserving students. For those interested in donating to the foundation, call (708) 709-3636, or visit prairiestate.edu and click on “Foundation.”

PSC TO OFFER PERIODONTAL SCREENINGS STARTING SEPT. 15
[Released September 2, 2008] Prairie State College’s (PSC) Dental Hygiene Department is looking for community clients to participate in its annual Periodontal Clinic. The clinic enhances the dental hygiene students’ clinical learning experience. For a $35 fee, each client gets a full set of X-rays, impressions of the mouth, a consultation with the periodontist on staff, and a thorough cleaning by a student dental hygienist.

Services will be available every Monday from 1 to 4 p.m., and 5 to 8 p.m., from September 15 through October 20. A maintenance appointment is required on November 17, November 24, or December 1. Appointments are necessary; no walk-ins are allowed. Those interested in participating can call the clinic at (708) 709-3707 for a screening appointment. The PSC Dental Hygiene Clinic is located in the Health/Tech Center, on the north side of Vollmer Road, across from the main campus, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights.

PSC TAKING EMPLOYER RESERVATIONS FOR OCTOBER 22 JOB FAIR
[Released September 2, 2008] Prairie State College’s Career Development Services invites area businesses and organizations to participate in a job fair. The job fair will be held on Wednesday, October 22, from 4 to 7 p.m., in the atrium of the College’s main campus, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights.

Registration is $75 per company and includes job fair table with seating for two representatives, table covering, signage, and light dinner. Each addition representative attending the fair will be charged $25.

The job fair is free for job seekers and open to the public.

For more information on the job fair, contact Tanya Norfleet, coordinator of career development services, at (708) 709-3755 or tnorfleet@prairiestate.edu, Ramien Manson, career advisor, at (708) 709-3922 or rmanson@prairiestate.edu, or visit PSC Job Fair.

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE POLICE DEPARTMENT ESTABLISHED
[Released September 2, 2008] Prairie State College (PSC) now has a police department. President Dr. Eric Radtke administered the oath of office to three police officers to officially establish the police department. Sworn in were Norman Martin, director of campus & public safety and chief of police, and Samuel Pavesich and Al Thompson, police officers.

“The police department provides additional tools to keep the college community safe as well as the officers responding,” said Martin. “In the event of an emergency, the Prairie State College Police can now provide an immediate response and are trained and equipped to handle situations that were previously referred to the Chicago Heights Police Department. Reducing the response time by just a matter of a few minutes can make a significant difference when dealing with critical incidents.”

The new police department will serve the campus as part of the office of Campus & Public Safety. Martin will assume the role of police chief in addition to his current duties as director of campus & public safety.

Board Secretary Jacqueline Agee stated, "This is the culmination of over two years of work by the Board and the administration to establish the PSC Police Department, which included surveying staff and students, developing policy, creating hiring processes, and signing an intergovernmental agreement with the City of Chicago Heights."

Board Chair Mark Fazzini said, "It is important that the campus and community know that the PSC police officers will have the exact same training as any other Illinois municipal police officer."

Before coming to Prairie State College in 2007, Martin retired after 28 years from the Illinois State Police, most recently serving as lieutenant colonel. Pavesich is a retired Chicago Heights police officer of 28 years, and Thompson is a retired sergeant from the Cook County Sheriff’s Office. Martin, Pavesich, and Thompson met the eligibility requirements for their positions and passed the required physical and psychological exams.

The college will administer an exam to establish an eligibility list to hire additional police officers. By 2011, it is expected the college will have nine police officers.

PSC PRESENTS PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR AND STUDENT ARTISTS IN ANNUAL EXHIBIT
[Released August 22]The Prairie State College Annual Student Exhibit/Photographer of the Year features selected works by students in fine arts, photography, and graphic communications. The show opens Wednesday,
September 3, with a reception in the Christopher Art Gallery from 12 noon to 2 p.m. The gallery is located on the college’s main campus, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights.

The exhibit also honors the college’s Photographer of the Year, Krystal King. The Photographer of the Year award is given annually to an outstanding photography student. The student receives top billing at the annual student show and a $1,500 scholarship.

“Photography has been a wonderful discovery in my life,” said King, a resident of Homewood. “The mission of my photography is to introduce women and men to their beauty. It is a great honor to be able to take any individual and make them feel uniquely beautiful.”

Don Kouba, professor of photography, started the Photographer of the Year award 25 years ago to honor an outstanding photography student. In judging the portfolio for this year’s Photographer of the Year, the panel felt that King’s work was some of the strongest they had seen submitted in the recent years.

Kouba said, “Krystal King’s work with the human form portrays a sense of visual maturity that is not typically seen from young artists. The approach of her work was so clear and directed by her theme of what constitutes real beauty, that the images seemed to pour from her like a fine wine. Her intimate photographs transcend the subject, while challenging the viewer’s thoughts and feelings of comparative inadequacy toward the industry’s standards of cultural and physical beauty.”

Other student artists featured in the exhibit are Kevin Stuart and Zachary Sala, of Beecher; Robert Jamison, of Chicago; James Alejandro, Miriam Meade, Blanca Martinez, Lisa Galea, and Eric Marshall, of Chicago Heights; Elnora McDaniel, Katie Narcisi, Celeste Miller, Ryan Niksic, and Ryan Meder, of Crete; Steve Surma, of Glenwood; Kerri Swiatnicki, Candy Fassnacht, Armand Salin, and Tayler Lenoir, of Homewood; Maureen Rinella, of Flossmoor; Maury Hodge, of Olympia Fields; Debbie Pieszka and Christina Reyenga, of Monee; David Horton, Pamela Wickliffe, and Johann Allen, of Park Forest; Alison Libles and Solomon Tabi, of Richton Park; Hannah Swidergal, of Sauk Village; Lena Torres, of South Chicago Heights; Michelle O’Sha, of Steger; Krista Glidewell, of Cedar Lake, Ind.; and Darryl White, of Gary, Ind.
T
he exhibit runs through October 1. Hours for the Christopher Art Gallery are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. Visits may also be made by appointment. For more information about the exhibit, or to make an appointment for a visit, contact the Prairie State College Foundation at (708) 709-3636.

PSC HELPS NEW STUDENTS ADJUST TO COLLEGE
[Released August 22, 2008] Prairie State College’s annual New Student Convocation is scheduled for Thursday, August 28. Convocation is an opportunity for freshmen to get acquainted with college life while being officially welcomed to the college by faculty, administrators, and staff.

The Convocation begins at 11:30 a.m. with a formal academic procession and a 30-minute program in the atrium of the main campus located at 202 S. Halsted St. in Chicago Heights. Dr. Eric Radtke, who assumed his duties as president on August 1, will welcome the students and introduce faculty, administrators, and staff.

“New Student Convocation gives faculty the opportunity to welcome students to Prairie State College,” said Alanna Cotch, associate professor of English and president of the PSC faculty senate. “We truly want our students to do well here, and at New Student Convocation, they will hear from faculty about how they can succeed in college.”

Following the program, students are invited to attend a Student Involvement Fest and picnic. Representatives from many student organizations will be available to answer questions and encourage new students to get involved in co-curricular activities on campus.

INTERNATIONALLY KNOWN R&B JAZZ VOCALIST TO PERFORM AT PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE
[Released 08/15/08] Internationally known R&B and Jazz vocalist Marcus Gentry “As Requested” and his band, First Class, will make a one-time only appearance at Prairie State College. The concert will be held on Saturday, September 6, in the Business & Community Education Center auditorium of Prairie State College, located at 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. The concert begins at 7 p.m.; doors open at 6 p.m.

Gentry will perform a two-hour show paying tribute to the life and talents of some of the great baritones of the past and present including, Nat King Cole, Lou Rawls, Jerry “Iceman” Butler, and Will Downing. The audience will have the opportunity to enjoy the musical performance and learn about the lives of the original artists.

Gentry has performed both nationally and internationally in a variety of venues. He also has appeared in several feature films including, Save the Last Dance, Soul Food, Return to Me, and Love Jones. Throughout his musical career, Gentry has shared the stage with such musical greats including James Brown, The Persuasions, Billy Paul, The Manhattans, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Blue Magic, and Bloodstone.

The cost for tickets is $20 general admission; $10 for students and seniors. Advance tickets are available for purchase in the Prairie State College Business Office during regular business hours. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visa, MasterCard, and Discover are accepted for advance payment. Tickets are cash only the evening of the concert.

Half of the concert proceeds will benefit the Prairie State College Protégé program, a mentoring and support system for historically under-represented men. The Protégé program promotes academic progress through mentoring, college visits, cultural outings, and various workshops aimed at overcoming common barriers to academic success.

“This is a unique event for Prairie State College and an exciting opportunity for students and community members,” said Sean Smith, advisor of Protégé. “In addition, the concert benefits the Protégé Program and helps us achieve the Protégé mission of encouraging and supporting minority male college students.”

For more information about the concert, contact the Prairie State College Foundation at (708) 709-3636.

NEW AGREEMENT MEANS MORE TRANSFER OPTIONS FOR PSC EDUCATION STUDENTS
[Released August 11] Education majors at Prairie State College will now be able to transfer more easily to Saint Xavier University thanks to an articulation agreement recently signed by both institutions. J.R. Dempsey, Prairie State College interim president and vice president of business & information services, and Judith Dwyer, president of Saint Xavier University, signed the agreement on July 29.

Through the agreement, Prairie State College students can create a four-year plan for completing a bachelor’s degree in teacher education at Saint Xavier University. Students who complete the required 63 to 65 credits with a GPA of 2.5 or better can transfer to Saint Xavier University School of Education. At Saint Xavier, students can complete 55 to 58 credits to earn a degree and teacher certification in elementary education, or 57 or 58 hours for early childhood education.

“This agreement is an excellent opportunity for our students to continue their education,” said Dr. Linda Uzureau, vice president of academic affairs and dean of faculty at Prairie State College. “We are always looking to do 2 + 2 transfer agreements, especially with universities as highly regarded at Saint Xavier. We encourage our graduates to advance their education beyond the associate’s degree level and believe many will take advantage of this opportunity at Saint Xaiver.”

Participating students benefit from guidance from both institutions, assuring a smooth transfer of credits. Participating students will also benefit from Prairie State College’s Transfer Guarantee, which ensures transferability of all courses that have been approved by the Illinois Articulation Agreement.

The new agreement is effective beginning with the fall 2008 term. Fall classes begin Aug. 25. Registering now for fall classes assures getting the schedule needed to fit busy lives. All new students must register in person. Prairie State College’s Counseling & Academic Advising Center and Office of Admissions are open Monday through Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In an effort to provide optimal customer service, it is requested that all students sign in by 6:30 p.m. Continuing students may register online at prairiestate.edu or in person. Course listings are available on the Prairie State College Web site through the WebAdvisor link on the homepage. For more information call (708) 709-3506.

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE OFFERS SEVERAL GAS-FRIENDLY OPTIONS FOR FALL
[August 11] With rising gas prices, more and more people are looking for ways to save on the cost of fuel. This fall, Prairie State College offers several gas-friendly options. These options include Weekend College and online classes. For students who drive approximately 15 miles a day, driving to campus only one day a week could save a student approximately $1,000 in gas and vehicle costs a semester.

Students can take up to two classes on a single day by going to class on Fridays only. Friday class options include art, business, communication, English, humanities, math, physics, psychology, and sociology. For those looking to take classes on the weekend, students have the option to attend class on either Saturday or Sundays with a wide variety of offerings such as biology, business, communication, keyboarding, and psychology.

Prairie State also offers more than 30 online classes with offerings such as art history and business. Classes also are available days and evenings.

“Today’s student juggles many competing interests such as family, career, and social responsibilities,” said Shawn Govan, dean of counseling and academic advising. “Prairie State College recognizes that several priorities exist on the typical student agenda, and we offer a very accommodating way for students to pursue their educational goals.”

Fall classes begin Aug. 25. Registering now for fall classes assures getting the schedule needed to fit busy lives. All new students must register in person. Prairie State College’s Counseling & Academic Advising Center and Office of Admissions are open Monday through Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In an effort to provide optimal customer service, it is requested that all students sign in by 6:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and by 4 p.m. on Friday. Continuing students may register online at prairiestate.edu or in person. Course listings are available on the Prairie State College Web site through the WebAdvisor link on the homepage. Print versions for the fall schedule are available on campus and were mailed to all households in the district in June. For more information call (708) 709-3506.

PSC ADULT LITERACY TUTOR RECEIVES STATE RECOGNITION
[August 11] Donald Bartak (photo), volunteer math tutor for Prairie State College, was recently recognized by Secretary of State and State Librarian Jessie White and the Illinois Press Association with a Spotlight on Service award for his dedication and commitment as a literacy tutor.

Bartak has been a tutor at Prairie State College since 2001, logging 4,968 hours of assisting adult students. He started tutoring after his wife, who was training to become at tutor at Prairie State, thought he would love it. Bartak primarily works with small groups of two to three students three times a week, but also works with students one-on-one.

“I get great satisfaction in watching my students learn and succeed; I feel pride in their achievement,” said Bartak, a resident of Chicago Heights. “I thank them for needing me—and my wife for pointing the way for me to become a volunteer tutor.”

Dora Ivory, coordinator of adult literacy and education at Prairie State College, said, “Don provides an environment of trust and ownership to the students that he serves. He has high expectations of his students and his service, and his commitment to them has been crucial to the literacy project’s math tutorial success.”

Board Chair Mark Fazzini said, “It is so important that the efforts of volunteers be recognized, and we are very proud of Don's contributions. He is able to have a positive influence on the lives of others that come to Prairie State College.”

Ten literacy students from Illinois were also recognized with Spotlight on Achievement awards. Students and tutors are nominated from among the nearly 200 local providers who receive literacy grant funding from the Secretary of State/Illinois State Library Literacy Office.

According to the Illinois Adult Literacy Survey, about four million Illinois adults lack the basic reading, math, writing or language skills to function effectively at home, at work and in the community. The Prairie State College Adult Education department offers a variety of services to assist adults who need to improve their literacy skills, or those who need to learn the English language. The college also offers courses to prepare individuals who need to take the GED examination.

Tutors are always needed for both days and evenings. Those interested in becoming a volunteer tutor should contact Ivory at (708) 709-3724.

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE OFFERS PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES FOR MUSICIANS
[Released 08/05/08] Vocalists and instrumentalists who want to perform with a group have several options at Prairie State College. All ensembles begin the week of August 25 unless otherwise noted.

Musicians interested in performing standard symphonic literature are encouraged to join the Wind Ensemble. Directed by Phillip Crews, the ensemble is open to musicians of at least an intermediate level of playing and reading music. Participants must enroll in MUSIC 120, and audition for placement is required for new members. To arrange an audition, e-mail vnicholson@prairiestate.edu or call (708) 709-3742. Rehearsals are on Monday from 6:30 to 8:20 p.m.

Jazz musicians who want opportunities for improvisation during performance have a choice of two ensembles, a big band and a jazz combo, both directed by Valerie Nicholson. The jazz combo focuses on small group techniques, and the big band features reading music. No audition is required for the jazz combo, but participants must enroll in MUSIC 152. Rehearsals held Tuesdays from 7 to 9:40 p.m.

An audition is required for the Big Band Ensemble. To schedule an audition, e-mail vnicholson@prairiestate.edu or call (708) 709-3742. Musicians will be required to sight-read music at the audition. Upon acceptance into the ensemble, participants must enroll in MUSIC 153. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 8:30 to 10 p.m. and begin on September 8.

Vocalists also can perform in a group as part of the Vocal Jazz Ensemble. The ensemble performs jazz standards and other contemporary music with a rhythm section. This group is directed by Jeremy Landig and is composed of PSC music majors, students at large, and community members. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 7 to 9:40 p.m. No audition is required for the jazz combo, but participants must enroll in MUSIC 162.

Those who like to sing also can join the Grande Prairie Singers. The group, directed by James Kallembach, is a large mixed chorus representing more than twenty villages and suburbs. Participants will perform at three group concerts and two performances with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra. Rehearsals are held Tuesday from 7 to 9:30 p.m. To join the Grande Prairie Singers, an audition is required. To schedule an audition or for more information, call (708) 481-8684. Upon acceptance into the Grande Prairie Singers, participants who want to receive college credit must enroll in MUSIC 110.

For more information about the ensembles, contact Nicholson at (708) 709-3742 or vnicholson@prairiestate.edu.

Fall classes begin Aug. 25. Registering now for fall classes assures getting the schedule needed to fit busy lives. All new students must register in person. Prairie State College’s Counseling & Academic Advising Center and Office of Admissions are open Monday through Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. In an effort to provide optimal customer service, it is requested that all students sign in by 6:30 p.m. Continuing students may register online at prairiestate.edu or in person. Course listings are available on Prairie State College Web site through the WebAdvisor link on the homepage. Print versions for the fall schedule are available on campus and were mailed to all households in the district in June. For more information call (708) 709-3506.

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE OFFERS OPTIONS FOR HOMESCHOOLING FAMILIES

(Released July 16) Nationwide, more and more homeschooling families are choosing community colleges as the next step for their children’s education. That trend also holds true for Prairie State College with more homeschooled students enrolling each year.

One option for homeschooled students is to take college level classes while being homeschooled. For example, homeschooling parents who find it difficult to teach foreign language or laboratory science, can enroll their advanced high school student. Some homeschooled students even qualify for enrollment in the Honors program.

“When homeschooled students take classes at Prairie State, they can participate in college activities and events, use the library, and benefit from free tutoring in the Student Success Center,” said Marietta Turner, director of admissions, enrollment, and career development services.

Another option for homeschooled students who have completed high school is to spend the first two years of college at Prairie State College completing general education requirements and lower division courses in their major before transferring to a four-year college or university.

“Prairie State College offers students the ‘small school advantage’ because of our small class sizes and faculty dedicated to teaching freshmen and sophomores,” said Turner.

Kristi Boss is the leader of the Homeschool Resource Center, which provides information, encouragement, and fellowship to homeschooling families. Her family took advantage of both options offered to homeschool students. Her daughters Kelsey and Katie graduated from Prairie State after being homeschooled, and Kara will begin taking classes this fall while completing her homeschool education.

“I enrolled Katie in a Spanish class when I could no longer teach it,” said Boss. “When it came time for college, it was natural to send Katie to Prairie State to complete her general education requirements before moving on to complete her bachelor’s degree.”

Boss said Katie had a smooth transition when she transferred to Trinity Christian College due to the Illinois Articulation Agreement (IAI). IAI is a statewide agreement that allows transfer of the completed Illinois Transferable General Education Core Curriculum between participating institutions. Completion of the Transferable General Education Core Curriculum at any participating college or university in Illinois assures transferring students that lower-division general education requirements for bachelor’s degree have been satisfied.

“The IAI transfer courses are the best because even though my daughter changed majors, under the guidance of an advisor, her classes transferred,” said Boss.

For more information on opportunities for homeschooled students, call Wallace Bailey, Jr., enrollment advisor, at (708) 709-3641 or visit prairiestate.edu/h_student/index.html.

Fall classes begin Aug. 25. Registering now for fall classes assures getting the schedule needed to fit busy lives. All new students must register in person. Prairie State College’s Counseling & Academic Advising Center and Office of Admissions are open Monday through Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. In an effort to provide optimal customer service, it is requested that all students sign in by 6:30 p.m. Continuing students may register online at prairiestate.edu or in person. Course listings are available on the Prairie State College Web site through the WebAdvisor link on the homepage. Print versions of the fall schedule are available on campus and were mailed to all households in the district in June. For more information call (708) 709-3506.

PSC OFFERS TUITION-FREE COURSE TO QUALIFIED HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS
[Released July 16] Prairie State College is offering high school seniors the opportunity to enroll in a tuition-free class. To be eligible, students must live within the Prairie State district, have a grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, and obtain permission from an appropriate high school authority.

“This is a great opportunity for the class of 2009 to get a jump on their college education,” said Beth Wyack, enrollment advisor.

Students who take advantage of this program either during the fall before their senior year, and earn a B or better, are eligible for a second tuition-free course in the spring of senior year. Students also must take a placement test in order to enroll in classes; some classes require a minimum placement test score. Laboratory fees, books, and supplies are not included in this special waiver. Online classes also are not included in this waiver.

For more information about the special tuition waiver, please contact Wyack at (708) 709-7776.

Fall classes begin Aug. 25. Registering now for fall classes assures getting the schedule needed to fit busy lives. All new students must register in person. Prairie State College’s Counseling & Academic Advising Center and Office of Admissions are open Monday through Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. In an effort to provide optimal customer service, it is requested that all students sign in by 6:30 p.m. Continuing students may register online at prairiestate.edu or in person. Course listings are available on the Prairie State College Web site through the WebAdvisor link on the homepage. Print versions of the fall schedule are available on campus and were mailed to all households in the district in June. For more information call (708) 709-3506.

TWO PSC GRADUATES RECEIVE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SCHOLARSHIPS
[Released July 10] Two Prairie State College graduates are recipients of Illinois General Assembly Scholarships. Lesliefaye Gogins, of Park Forest, received a scholarship from Representative Al Riley (D-38th District) and Eric Marshall, of Chicago Heights, received a scholarship from Representative George Scully (D-80th District).

Gogins and Marshall will each receive one full year of tuition to attend the Illinois university of their choice. Gogins will attend the University of Illinois at Springfield to pursue a dual bachelor’s and master’s degree in public administration. Marshall will attend the University of Illinois at Chicago to major in biology.

Gogins “screamed with excitement” when she found out she was the recipient of the scholarship. A returning adult student with two children, Gogins said paying for her education has been a challenge.

“When I left the workforce to pursue my education, I was presented with some unforeseen economic devastation,” said Gogins. “As a recipient of this scholarship, I am thrilled to be able to continue my education so I can create a better life for my family.”

Marshall, like Gogins, also was excited to receive the scholarship. Because he wants to be a doctor, and he is paying for his own education, this scholarship allows him to continue his education and save for medical school.

“This scholarship is an amazing gift, and I am very lucky to have received it,” said Marshall. “Prairie State College provided me with leadership skills that I will use as I pursue my dream of becoming a doctor.”

Illinois State Representatives can award up to two individual full one-year tuition waivers to participants who live in their district. Each waiver is good for one full year of tuition, beginning with the fall semester of 2008 and includes summer sessions. Students were judged on academic achievement, community involvement, school activities, personal essay, and financial need. Photos attached: Lesliefaye Gogins and Eric Marshall

SIBLINGS START NEAR AND GO FAR AT PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE
[Released July 9] Before Mark Biagi graduated from Homewood-Flossmoor High School, he had a decision to make about college. He didn’t think about it for long; he enrolled at Prairie State College.

Following in his big sisters’ footsteps Mark is the third Biagi to attend Prairie State College. Catherine took her general education requirements at Prairie State and transferred to Northern Illinois University to major in Marketing and Business. She is now employed as an office manager. Gina recently graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in Human Resources after attending Prairie State for her general education classes. She recently got a job in a human recourse department as a payroll analyst.

“Everyone needs to take the same general education classes,” said Ruth Biagi, mother of the three. “Prairie State is affordable, close to home, and a great place to start.”

Gina agrees that Prairie State College is a great place to start a college career. She credits the college for preparing her for a smooth transfer to Illinois State.

“The professors at Prairie State College give you the full college experience in what they teach in the classroom; it was an easy transfer,” said Gina.

Gina also liked that the classes she took at Prairie State were small in size, rather than held in a big lecture hall with hundreds of students.

“Not only did I learn from the professors, but I learned from the students in the class. It was not just traditional age college students, but a cross-generation of learners,” said Gina.

All three Biagi students were recipients of the Prairie State College Board of Trustee Scholarships. These scholarships are open to high school graduates residing in the Prairie State College Illinois Community College District 515. Students must apply for the scholarship while they are seniors in high school through their high school counselor. For more information, call the office of financial aid at (708) 709-3562.

Prairie State College fall classes begin Aug. 25. Registration is ongoing until classes begin. All new students must register in person. Registration hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Continuing students may register online at prairiestate.edu or in person. Course listings are available on PSC’s Web site through the WebAdvisor link on the homepage. Print versions of the fall schedules are available on campus. For more information about registering for courses, contact the Counseling & Academic Advising Center at (708) 709-3506. Attached photo: (from left to right) Catherine, Mark, and Gina Biagi

PSC OFFERS INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY AT DISNEY WORLD
[Released July, 2008] Many children dream of visiting Disney’s Magic Kingdom and meeting Mickey Mouse. While every year millions of children visit Disney World, there are thousands of college students who have enrolled in the Walt Disney College Program and spend a semester working side-by-side with Mickey and friends.

Prairie State College is a partner in the Walt Disney College Program and offers a one-of-a-kind internship experience for college students from all majors and backgrounds. Students work in one of four theme parks, more than 20 resorts, two water parks, or a dining/entertainment/retail complex. Students learn communication skills, initiative, motivation, teamwork, interpersonal skills, work ethic, and problem solving.

“The Disney program is a wonderful way for students to gain work experience and earn college credit at the same time,” said Marcianne Schusler, associate professor of business.

Prairie State College student Lyndsey Estes recently participated in the program and described the experience as life-changing.

“I met wonderful people from several different cultures and formed many lifelong friendships,” said Estes, a resident of Steger. “I leaned a lot about working with people from all over the world.”

Disney also offers courses to students as part of their program. The courses are designed by professionals and subject-matter experts from Disney University and are recommended for credit by the American Council on Education.

To learn more about the Walt Disney College Program or about other business programs offered by Prairie State, contact mschusler@prairiestate.edu.

PRAIRIE STATE PROFESSORS TAP THEIR ARTISTIC SIDE
[Released July, 2008] Professor of Information Technology Shelly Hokanson teaches classes such as Computer Forensics, Technology of e-Commerce, and Introduction to Web site Development. While one can frequently find her researching the hottest new trends on the Web, she is more than just a “computer geek.”

Hokanson enjoys photography and frequently takes photos. One of Hokanson’s photographs, “Bunny Nose,” is on display at the Union Street Gallery’s Whiskers & Tails exhibition, which runs through July 30.

“I'm very excited to be a part of Whiskers & Tails,” said Hokanson. “The Union Street Gallery is a wonderful place, full of good vibes, good people, and good art.”

While this is her first gallery show, she has had two photographs published online. One was featured in the Schmap.com Seattle Guide, Fourth Edition, and the other was published on the LifeTakesVisa.com Web site in the “Rock and Roll Fantasy Tour” section sponsored by RollingStone.com.

“I've learned a lot through this experience and am inspired by it to continue on,” said Hokanson.

Hokanson isn’t the only Prairie State College professor who has a passion for art. John Lim, professor of heating and air conditioning, has been painting and sculpting for more than 40 years. His work is the subject of a one man show, Marg in April: A John Lim Retrospective, which is currently on display through July 17, in the Prairie State College Christopher Art Gallery.

The exhibit is a tribute to Lim’s wife, Margie Lim. Marg comes from her nickname, while April was chosen because it is the month of her birthday. Some of the sculpture pieces in the show utilize typical elements found in heating and air conditioning but are transformed into mixed media work. “Growing up, he shared his zest for life and art with me,” said Megan Lim, Professor Lim’s daughter. “A walk thought his current gallery exhibit is a walk by his side, and one will see the various influences and exploration in media.” To view Lim’s exhibition, hours for the Christopher Art Gallery are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information or to make an appointment to visit the gallery, contact the Prairie State College Foundation at (708) 709-3636.

DISPLACED HOMEMAKERS PROGRAM ASSISTS PSC STUDENTS
[Released June, 2006] Lesliefaye Gogins had a job but knew she could make more money to support her family with a college degree. She decided to return to college to better her life for her and her two children.

While she received financial aid, she still needed tuition assistance. Gogins, a resident of Park Forest, turned to PSC’s office of Illinois Support Training and Employment Program (ISTEP) for Displaced Homemakers for help. Not only did she get the financial assistance she needed, but she received support and encouragement to pursue her college dreams. She realized that dream this past May when she graduated from PSC. She is transferring to University of Illinois at Springfield this fall to pursue a degree in public administration.

“ISTEP provided relief of great stress that came as the result of my choice to leave full-time employment in order to focus on attaining my degree,” said Gogins. “As a single mother, it wasn’t easy, but I received the support I needed from PSC.”

The ISTEP for Displaced Homemakers program assists students, male or female, who have been forced to seek employment outside the home due to divorce or separation, or because of a spouse’s death, disability, incarceration, or unemployment. The program offers help with tuition, fees, books, and transportation as well as personal counseling and job-hunting assistance.

“Men and women who are looking for assistance can take advantage of this opportunity to get the help they need to begin their college education, creating a better life for their families,” said Shelley McCreery, program coordinator.

For more information on the ISTEP for Displaced Homemakers program, contact McCreery at (708) 709-3788.

Fall classes begin Aug. 25. Registration is ongoing until classes begin. All new students must register in person. Registration hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Continuing students may register online at prairiestate.edu or in person. Course listings are available on PSC’s Web site through the WebAdvisor link on the homepage. Print versions of the fall schedules are available on campus. For more information about registering for courses, contact the Counseling & Academic Advising Center at (708) 709-3506.

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE STUDENT VISITS AUSTRALIA
[Released June, 2008] Prairie State College (PSC) student Ivy Green recently spent 10 days in Australia learning about Australian journalism and absorbing local culture. photo

Green, a resident of University Park, was among an elite group of 72 students from the United States selected to participate in the International Scholar Laureate Program.

Through her travels, Green gained a greater global understanding of how journalism is practiced, visiting television stations and newspapers in Melbourne and Sydney.

“There are no censorship rules in Australia, which brings a different flavor to the evening news,” said Green. “Words that are banned on American television are said on Australian television like they are no big deal.”

Green also learned more about the importance of diversity in the media, something she said she would pay particular attention to when she serves as editor-in-chief of the PSC Student Messenger, PSC’s student newspaper.

“In today’s world, we can all benefit from keeping up on international news,” said Green. “Prairie State College has a lot of students that represent all different cultures, and I want to be sure to include something for them in the student newspaper.”

Green expects to graduate from PSC next May. She wants to transfer to Columbia College to major in journalism. Eventually, she would like to start her own magazine to publish young writers.

“After meeting many aspiring journalists like myself, I see the importance of giving them a creative outlet,” said Green. “The people I met and the overall experience was life changing.”

The International Scholar Laureate Program gives scholars a head start toward achieving career goals through study in cities throughout Australia, Central and Eastern Europe, China, India, and South Africa. The scholar delegations represent diverse fields, including archeology, business, engineering, journalism, medicine, music, nursing, and technology.

PSC RELEASES PART-TIME HONORS LIST FOR SPRING 2008
[Release June, 2008] Prairie State College has announced the Part-Time Honors List of students for the spring 2008 semester. To be named to the list, a part-time student must be “in good standing” and have earned a semester grade point average (GPA) of 3.75 or better on a 4.0 scale, maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better, and completed a minimum of 12 credit hours at PSC.

The Part-Time Honors List (pdf file).

PSC RELEASES DEAN’S LIST FOR SPRING 2008
[Released June, 2008] Prairie State College has announced the Dean’s List of students for the spring 2008 semester. To be named to the Dean’s List, students must have a semester grade point average (GPA) of 3.75 or better, have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours at PSC during the semester, and have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale. Students also must be in “good standing” at PSC to be included on the list.

Dean’s List (pdf file):

PSC ANNOUNCES NEWEST GRADUATES
[Released June, 2008] At Prairie State College's 49th Commencement, nearly 500 students graduated from the Chicago Heights community college. Conferred were the degrees of Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in General Studies, and Associate in Applied Science as well as certificates. December 2007, May 2008, and August 2008 graduates list. (pdf)

THIRD PARTY COMMENTS INVITED ON PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE
[Released 6/12/08] Prairie State College will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit on October 20-22, 2008, by a team representing The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Prairie State College has been accredited by the Commission since 1965. Its accreditation is at the associate’s degree level.

The Higher Learning Commission is one of six accrediting agencies in the United States that provide institutional accreditation on a regional basis. Institutional accreditation evaluates an entire institution and accredits it as a whole. Other agencies provide accreditation for specific programs. Accreditation is voluntary. The Commission accredits approximately 1,100 institutions of higher education in a 19-state region. The Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

For the past two years, Prairie State College has been engaged in a process of self-study, addressing the Commission’s requirements and criteria for accreditation. The evaluation team will visit the institution to gather evidence that the self-study is thorough and accurate. The team will recommend to the Commission a continuing status for Prairie State College; following a review process, the Commission itself will take the final action.

The public is invited to submit comments regarding the college:

Public Comment on Prairie State College
The Higher Learning Commission
30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400
Chicago, IL 60602

Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Written, signed comments must be received by September 1, 2008. The Commission cannot guarantee that comments received after the due date will be considered. Comments should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person providing the comments. Comments will not be treated as confidential.

Note: Individuals with a specific dispute or grievance with an institution should request the separate Policy on Complaints document from the Commission office. The Higher Learning Commission cannot settle disputes between institutions and individuals. Complaints will not be considered third party comment.

PSC OFFERS NEW MUSIC PRODUCTION DEGREE
[Released May, 2008] Prairie State College (PSC) now offers a new Music Production and Technology program to prepare students for a career in the music and sound industry. PSC is the first community college in the area to offer this program. Two options are available, an A.A.S. in Music Production and a certificate in Music Technology.

“Work that formerly required specialized and costly studio settings and equipment now can be produced using a computer and music production software,” said Valerie Nicholson, professor of music. “Independent studios and producers are flourishing, and the Internet makes it possible to distribute the music worldwide.”

The A.A.S. in Music Production prepares students for employment as independent composers/producers, sound producers for animation or video games, interactive Web site designers, and business entrepreneurs in music and audio-related fields. Internships in the music production industry are offered to students pursuing the degree.

The certificate in Music Technology prepares students to work as assistants and technicians in the music industry. The program provides a technical understanding of acoustics and audio devices. It also provides hands-on experience in design, set-up, and operation of technical systems, live sound, and audio visual presentations.

One of the core courses of the program is Music in Film and Television (MUSIC 172). This course explores the uses of music in film and television and provides an overview of the industry. The course will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m., beginning June 9. Composer Kirsten Broberg is the instructor for the course. Broberg’s compositions have been performed internationally. She is completing the doctoral program at Northwestern University.

With the wide range of courses offered in this program, students gain a strong background in the music industry, giving them the resources they need to be employed as freelancers in a variety of situations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is an expected growth of 18 percent nationally through 2014 and 12 percent in Illinois through 2012 for careers in music production.

For more information about the new music production program, contact Nicholson at vnicholson@prairiestate.edu.

Second session summer classes begin June 9. Fall classes begin Aug. 25. Registration is ongoing until classes begin. All new students must register in person. Registration hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Continuing students may register online at prairiestate.edu or in person. Course listings are available on PSC’s Web site through the WebAdvisor link on the homepage. Print versions of the summer and fall schedules are available on campus. For more information about registering for courses, contact the Counseling & Academic Advising Center at (708) 709-3506.

PSC COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER ENCOURAGES GRADUATES TO KEEP LEARNING
[Released May, 2008] Commencement speaker Dr. Elaine P. Maimon had three pieces of advice for students who graduated from Prairie State College on May 17. During the 49th Commencement, Maimon, the president of Governors State University, encouraged the graduates to root for their friends and colleagues to succeed, to be passionate about work and life, and to keep learning.

“Make plans to keep learning, and major in something that interests you intellectually,” said Maimon. “It doesn’t matter what you major in when pursuing your undergraduate degree. Concentrate on learning to solve problems, communicating effectively, and working well with other people.”

During the ceremony, PSC graduates Lesliefaye Gogins and Bryce Johnsen received the President’s Leadership Award. This award is given to outstanding graduates who have maintained high academic standing, made significant leadership contributions to the college, and demonstrated the values of responsible citizenship.

During her tenure as student trustee, Gogins was a strong voice for the student body. She advocated for all community college students through her involvement with the Association of Community College Trustees, attending summits in Washington D.C., to meet with legislators to urge priority funding for community colleges. By invitation of the Illinois Community College Trustees Association, she spoke on behalf of students at the Community College Coalition for Funding’s inaugural news conference at the State Capitol in Springfield. Gogins was an active member of the Black Student Union, the Student Government Association, and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She graduated with an associate in arts degree in liberal arts and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in public administration.

As president of the Student Government Association (SGA), Johnsen organized and participated in numerous student events. In his role as SGA president, he attended the board of trustee meetings, often addressing the board on issues relevant to students. Additionally, he provided student representation and served as vice chair of PSC’s College Council. Mr. Johnsen was also sports editor of The PSC Student Messenger and a member of the Political Science Club. Johnsen graduated with an associate in arts degree in liberal arts and will pursue a bachelor’s degree in communications.

Also honored at the ceremony were graduates Jonathan Pitman and Brian Katzberger. They were recognized as members of the Phi Theta Kappa All-Illinois Academic Team. Phi Theta Kappa is the national honor society of U.S. two-year colleges.

Katzberger has distinguished himself by maintaining high grades while being a student leader. Among his activities as vice president of services for the Phi Theta Kappa Nu Sigma Chapter, he spearheaded the Project Graduation food and book drive that benefited South Suburban Public Action to Deliver Shelter. As president of the Political Science Club, he helped organize a voter registration drive, hosted guest speakers on the first amendment, and participated in and organized PSC’s delegation to Model Illinois Government. Katzberger graduated magna cum laude with an associate in arts degree in business and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business.

Pitman has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and dedication to community service including volunteering for Kiwanis Pancake Day and Peanut Day, the Keep America Beautiful project, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, and Project Graduation. Off campus, Pitman volunteered more than 300 hours at Saint Margaret Mercy Hospital in Dyer, Indiana. Pitman graduated cum laude with an associate in arts degree in mass communications and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.

Photo attached: PSC graduates Jonathan Pitman, Brian Katzberger, Bryce Johnson, Lesliefaye Gogins

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES SELECTS NEW PRESIDENT
[Released May 19, 2008] Mark Fazzini, chair of Prairie State College (PSC) Board of Trustees, announced today the selection of Eric C. Radtke, Ph.D., to be the next president of the college. “We are excited that Dr. Radtke accepted our offer and are looking forward to working with him as we move forward with our mission of offering student-centered instruction to the residents in our district.”

For the past 24 years, Radtke’s career has focused on providing community college executive leadership combined with a strong background in college operations. Prior to accepting the presidency of PSC, Radtke served as executive vice president of administration for Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, Ohio. Cuyahoga Community College has approximately 26,000 students and offers both credit and non credit courses.

Before joining Cuyahoga Community College, Radtke was director of planning, budget, and human resources and director of academic services for the Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Radtke has extensive experience leading strategic planning and institutional research, facilities planning and management, legislative relations, and board relations.

David Brownell, interim PSC president, said, “Dr. Radtke was chosen from a field of 55 candidates that was narrowed down to four who visited the college during the past two weeks. We are very pleased he has accepted our offer to become president of Prairie State College.” Brownell also credited the college search committee that was chaired by Mary Reaves, vice president of student affairs, for keeping the search process moving forward and on schedule.

It is anticipated that Radtke will assume his duties at PSC by August 1, 2008.

PSC RECEIVES ILLINOIS CLEAN ENERGY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION GRANT
Prairie State College (PSC) recently received a $7,470 grant through the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation to install energy efficient lighting and a new lighting control board in the auditorium of the college’s Business & Community Education Center.

“This grant will allow PSC to upgrade its current lighting system in the auditorium to improve energy efficiency and reduce operating costs,” said Dan Gardner, coordinator of workforce and community services. “The new system also will offer enhanced illumination, making it more enjoyable for those using the auditorium.”

The new lighting fixtures have a wattage rating of 575 watts and a 2000 hour lamp, which will produce cost savings from less frequent bulb replacement, reduced energy consumption, and reduced labor over the present lighting systems. It is estimated PSC will save 12,450 watts a year. The project is expected to be completed in the fall.

The Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, which operates independently of Commonwealth Edison, was begun in 1999 thanks to a $225 million endowment from ComEd. Since awarding its first grant in 2001, the foundation has awarded 2,200 grants totaling $110 million to non-profit organizations, including schools, municipalities, and other local government agencies to help those organizations make their facilities more energy efficient.

PSC STUDENTS WIN WRITING AWARDS
Prairie State College (PSC) students captured two first place awards and one third place award at the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference Writers Festival.

Christopher Pfeifer, of Crete, took home first place in fiction while Marcy Clark, of Park Forest, won first place in non-fiction. Kelly Ortega, of Chicago, received third place in drama.

Approximately 100 works were submitted in four categories: poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and drama. Submissions were from students from the eight conference community colleges including Oakton Community College, College of Lake County, Elgin Community College, McHenry County College, Moraine Valley Community College, Morton College, and Waubonsee Community College.

“The award these three students won speaks to the strength of the writing program and English faculty at PSC,” said Patrick Reichard, associate professor of English. “We received more awards than any other school at the competition.”

Ortega was excited she won an award for her writing because it gave her even more confidence to pursue a career in writing. She will graduate from PSC in May and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in English at Governors State University.

“All of my professors at Prairie State College were amazing,” said Ortega. “Every English professor I had pushed me hard and helped me discover my passion for writing.”

All three students will have their work published in the college’s literary magazine, Exposure.

GSU PRESIDENT TO ADDRESS PSC GRADUATES
[Released 4/30/08] Prairie State College (PSC) will hold its 49th annual commencement on Saturday, May 17, at 1 p.m. in the Pioneer Fieldhouse. Governors State University President Dr. Elaine P. Maimon is the speaker.

Maimon is the fifth president of Governors State University. She is an internationally recognized scholar who played a leading role in developing Writing Across the Curriculum, which has changed the way writing is taught in universities, colleges, and schools.

Maimon is author of numerous scholarly articles and book chapters. Among her many publications, she is especially proud of the great success of A Writer’s Resource and The New McGraw-Hill Handbook, which are helping college students across the country to be independent writers.

She earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Pennsylvania as a scholarship student, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. She went on to earn her master’s and doctorate in English from the University of Pennsylvania.

Before assuming the role of president at Governors State, she served as Chancellor of the University of Alaska Anchorage. Previously, she held teaching and administrative positions of increasing responsibility at Haverford College, Arcadia University, Brown University, Queens College (CUNY), and Arizona State University West, where she served as Provost (Chief Campus Executive Officer), and Vice President of Arizona State University.

During the commencement ceremony students earning Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in General Studies, Associate in Applied Science degrees and certificates will be honored by family, friends and PSC’s Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and administration.

“Commencement is a time for celebration; a day of joy and new beginnings,” said Mary Reaves, vice president of student affairs and dean of students. “Commencement ceremonies are proud moments, and we are pleased to recognize the academic achievement and accomplishments of our students.”

Nearly 500 will graduate from PSC, with an estimated 250 of these graduates participating in the commencement ceremony.

The President’s Leadership Award and Phi Theta Kappa Honors will be presented during the ceremony. In addition to participating in commencement, graduates of PSC’s highly respected Nursing and Dental Hygiene programs will conduct their annual pinning ceremonies earlier in the day.

The PSC Pioneer Fieldhouse is located on the College’s North Campus in Chicago Heights. Parking is available off Vollmer Road in Lot E and off Halsted Street and 197th Place in Lot F. For more information about commencement, call (708) 709-3507.

PROJECT GRADUATION AT PSC AIMS TO FEED BODY AND MIND
[Released 4/28/08] Prairie State College's (PSC) Nu Sigma chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society of U.S. community colleges, is seeking donations of non-perishable food and books as part of "Project Graduation." This year the outreach effort culminates with the Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 17.

This ambitious project accepts donations of food and books in good condition to help community agencies and literacy organizations combat continual shortages. Donations may be dropped off in any of the boxes on PSC's main campus at 202 S. Halsted St. in Chicago Heights. In addition, each graduate and guest is asked to bring a donation to the ceremony, which is held in PSC's Pioneer Fieldhouse. All items will be given to local organizations.

Project Graduation helps battle hunger and low literacy rates. In an effort to help communities worldwide, Phi Theta Kappa chapters in over 500 community colleges in the United States, Canada, Germany and Guam are committed to changing lives through the project. Since its inception in 2002, more than 220,000 food items and 190,000 books have been collected and given to worthy organizations. For more information, or to donate goods before May 17, contact Christine McClenahan, Nu Sigma president, at nusigma@prairiestate.edu or (708) 709-3635.

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE STUDENT WINS NATIONAL SPEECH AWARDS
[Released 05/05/08] Prairie State College (PSC) student Felicia Ditmars is ranked as one of the top 10 speech performers in the country after capturing two gold medals at the Phi Rho Pi National Tournament recently held in St. Charles, Ill.

Ditmars, of Lynwood, received first place honors in Persuasive Speaking and Prose Interpretation, the largest category at the national tournament with 450 competitors. Throughout the regular season, she received more than 30 awards, about half of them first place finishes.

Ditmars is no stranger to winning gold medals at national competitions. Last season, she was the national champion in Dramatic Interpretation. This year's win makes Ditmars the most successful PSC speech team student in history.

"My two years on the team have been an amazing learning and growing experience," said Ditmars.

"I am thrilled to have so much success in competition." She will graduate from PSC this May and transfer to North Park University to major in early childhood education.

Thad Carr, of Olympia Fields, captured a bronze medal at the national competition in Informative Speaking, ranking him third in the country in this event. Carr will return to the team next season and serve as captain.

Also competing at nationals was Favian Apata, of Chicago Heights, and Patrick Huber, of Crete. Although Apata and Huber didn't place at nationals, both won several awards at competitions throughout the season. Collectively, the team won more than 80 individual medals during the regular season.

"You won't find better representatives of the program or of Prairie State College than these four individuals," said Dave Naze, who coaches the team with Elighie Wilson and Ed Schwarz.

Ditmars added that the PSC speech coaches should share in the team's success because of the leadership they provide.

"I owe a lot to my coaches for their guidance," said Ditmars. "Anyone who joins the team should know they are learning from the best of the best. We are lucky to have such wonderful and talented coaches on the community college level."

FORENSICS TEAM BRINGS HOME AWARDS AT REGIONALS
PSC Forensics Team [Released 04/09/08] The Prairie State College Forensics team continued its successful season bringing home six medals from the Regional competition recently held at Elgin Community College.

Brian Hand, of Chicago Heights, earned a silver medal in Impromptu Speaking. Bronze medals were earned by Felicia Ditmars, of Lynwood, in Persuasive Speaking; Patrick Huber, of Crete, in Informative Speaking; Thad Carr, of Olympia Fields, in Poetry Interpretation; and Emily Allen, of Chicago Heights, in Speech to Entertain. Favian Apata, of Chicago Heights, received a Region 4 Student Fellowship Award, an award voted upon by her peers for the student who exemplifies sportsmanship.

"This was a good result as we get ready for nationals. The nationals' team will represent Prairie State very well," said Dave Naze, who coaches the team with Ed Schwarz and Elighie Wilson. "We've been fortunate to have a lot success both individually and as a team all season long."

PSC STUDENT WINS AWARD AT STATEWIDE ART COMPETITION
[ Released 04/04/08] Prairie State College student Zach Sala of Beecher recently won a Merit Award at the 2008 Illinois Community College Juried Art Exhibit.

The exhibition was held last month at Governors State University, and showcased the artwork of students from Illinois Community Colleges. The works featured in the exhibit included photography, painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, digital media, and mixed media. The show was juried by Harry Sudman, a muralist from Chicago.

"I was very impressed with the quality of work in this show," said Lou Shields, professor of art at Prairie State College. "It was an excellent opportunity for our students to see what other art majors are working on and to exchange ideas about art."

Four other Prairie State College students earned a spot in this invitation-only exhibit. They were Hannah Swidergal of Sauk Village, Eric Marshall of Chicago Heights, Gerry Rivera of Chicago Heights, and Sherri Haase of Crete.

The artwork of 12 Prairie State College graduating students including works by Sala and Swidergal will be on display from May 1 through 22 in the Prairie State College Christopher Art Gallery. Hours for the Christopher Art Gallery are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m.

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE PRESENTS THE ANNUAL GRADUATE EXHIBIT
[Released 04/04/08] The works of 12 Prairie State College students will be on display at the college's Annual Graduate Exhibit. The exhibit runs from Thursday, May 1, though Thursday, May 22, in the Christopher Art Gallery on the college's main campus, 202 S. Halsted St., in Chicago Heights.

The professional gallery exhibit will show the graduates' work for the community. Included in the exhibit are paintings, digital images, drawings, mixed media, and photography. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, May 1, from 12 noon to 2 p.m., in the gallery.

"I am continually amazed by the diversity and creative abilities that our students possess," said Paul Rinaldi, professor of fine arts. "The works displayed in the graduate exhibition are a testament to our students' on-going search for self expression in a rapidly changing world."

The following artists are participating in the exhibit: Kevin Stuart, Beecher; Zachary Sala, Beecher; Alan Lewis, Glenwood; Alison Libles, Richton Park; Leonard Ferris, Calumet City; Krystal King, Homewood; Stephanie Specht, Schererville, Ind.; Hannah Swidergal Sauk Village; Vanessa Anzaldua, Chicago Heights; Melanie Hinrichs, Lowell, Ind.; Cedric Jackson, Chicago Heights; and Michelle Wotkun, Lansing.

Hours for the Christopher Art Gallery are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m. Visits may also be made by appointment. For more information or to make an appointment for a visit, contact the Prairie State College Foundation at (708) 709-3636.

PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE ESTABLISHES POLICE DEPARTMENT
[Released April, 2008] The Prairie State College Board of Trustees recently approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Chicago Heights Police Department for the creation of a police department on the Prairie State College campus.

“This was accomplished by holding a special board meeting to assist the process moving forward,” said Mark Fazzini, board chair. “The entire board hopes this initiative can be accomplished within the next few months.”

The new Prairie State College Police Department is slated to start August 1 with five officers. The police department will serve the campus along with the existing Department of Campus & Public Safety.

“The creation of the new police department is just one of the several security measures Prairie State College is putting in place to assure the safety of our students, faculty, staff, and community,” said J.R. Dempsey, vice president of business & information services.

Norman Martin, director of campus & public safety, also will assume the role of police chief. Before coming to Prairie State College in 2007, Martin retired after 28 years from Illinois State Police, most recently serving as lieutenant colonel.

Current Prairie State College Campus & Public Safety officers who have a law enforcement background and wish to apply for a police officer position will be tested and trained. The college will administer an exam to establish an eligibility list to hire additional police officers. As those positions become available, the college will hire from the eligibility list after conducting background checks. All new officers will be sent to the police academy.

“Prairie State College police will adhere to the same standard of police officers anywhere in the state of Illinois,” said Martin. “Having armed police officers is an additional tool to assure the safety of our campus, reducing the response time when such backup is needed.”

COLLEGE BOWL SEASON CONCLUDES FOR PRAIRIE STATE TEAM
[Released March, 2008] Prairie State College recently placed third in the Spring Regional College Bowl Tournament.

Competing in rounds of “Jeopardy”style quizzes, students tested their knowledge in subjects such as science, current events, fine arts, and history.

“The team’s enthusiasm, spirit, and advance preparation all contributed to a remarkable team effort,” said Professor of English and Coach Linda Detloff.

The Prairie State team was composed of Greg Johnson of Richton Park, Laura Roche of Crete, Dana Strong of Park Forest, and Arial Larson of Manhattan.

“Although we are not advancing to state, overall it was a good season,” said Larson.

FINANCIAL ANALYST SAYS STOCK MARKET PROVIDES ECONOMIC FORECAST
[Released March, 2008] The stock market is an excellent leading indicator for what’s in store for the economy, Charles B. Carlson told area business leaders at the recent Prairie State College Foundation Economic Forecast Breakfast. Carlson is the chief executive officer of Horizon Publishing Company of Hammond, Ind.

Carlson said the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Dow Jones Transportation Average, two of the stock market indices created by nineteenth century Wall Street Journal editor Charles Dow, reveal the future of the stock market and economy. He explained that while both the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Dow Jones Transportation Average hit all-time highs in July 2007, they hit new lows in November 2007, which signaled a worsening economy.

Carlson said the stock market is not fixated on what happened in the past or even the present. According to today’s market, Carlson predicts the economy will “probably get worse before it gets better.”

Carlson explained that the economy is not in a recession yet. A recession is defined as two consecutive quarters of decline in the gross domestic product, and that has not yet occurred. However, the stock market indices signal a recession maybe around the corner.

Although the economy is not doing well, Carlson said there is reason to be optimistic. He said that Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Dow Jones Transportation Average only need a five percent increase to rebound that would signify a change in the market. But he cautions, the longer it takes for them to rebound, the longer the economy will continue to struggle.

Carlson also explained the Intermediate Potential Risk, the percentage of New York Stock Exchange stocks trading above their 200- day moving averages, shows how the stock market is doing overall, rather than a snapshot of the market at any given time. As of March 13, the Intermediate Potential Risk was at 19 percent, meaning only 19 percent of the stocks were at or above their 200-day average. This translates to a low-risk market and a good time to buy stocks if the investor can wait 12- 36 months for the growth.

Horizon Publishing Company publishes newsletters for individual investors. Dow Theory Forecasts, Horizon’s flagship publication, has been published every week for 60 years and is highly regarded among the investment community. Carlson is also the author of eight investment books.

The Prairie State College Foundation Economic Forecast Breakfast is an annual event, introducing new supports to the Foundation’s mission and raising money to benefit scholarships for Prairie State College students. Lead breakfast sponsors were Heritage Community Bank (Glenwood, Dolton, Orland Hills, Westmont) and Old Second Bank (Chicago Heights, Frankfort, Mokena, New Lenox).

For more information about the Foundation, or to make a scholarship donation, contact Cathy Killian Kloss, executive director of the foundation, at (708) 709-3944.

PSC RECOGNIZES OUTSTANDING WORKS OF HIGH SCHOOL ARTISTS
[Released March, 2008] Prairie State College has recognized the talents of aspiring south suburban artists from area high schools in an exhibit titled “Voices of Vision,” which runs through April 10 in the college’s Christopher Art Gallery.
This year the annual exhibit is highlighting the talents of students representing Beecher, Bloom, Bloom Trail, Crete-Monee, Homewood-Flossmoor, and Marian Catholic high schools. The artwork on display include drawing, electronic media, graphic design, mixed media, painting, sculpture and photography.

Juror for the exhibit and associate profess

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