Press Releases
For more information about any of the press releases below, contact Jennifer Stoner, executive director of communications and marketing, at (708) 709-3949 or Jill Yott communications, specialist at (708) 709-2948.
The Village of Richton Park presents Prairie State College (PSC) with a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) refund check at the PSC Board of Trustees meeting on February 23, held off-site at the Village of Richton Park. Pictured from left to right are Mark Fazzini, PSC board chair; Quida Neal, Richton Park economic development administrative assistant; Hal Bittenger, Richton Park finance director; Valerie Babka, Richton Park trustee; Vera Brooks, community relations director; and Eric C. Radtke, PSC president.
PSC STUDENTS GAIN VALUABLE EXPERIENCE AT MODEL ILLINOIS GOVERNMENT
[Released 03/17/10] Prairie State College student Jeremias Roman wants to be a lawyer, and he just added some good experience to his résumé. Roman, along with 250 students from more than 20 colleges and universities in Illinois, recently took part in the annual statewide simulation of the Illinois General Assembly.
Through Model Illinois Government (MIG) students hold various roles including legislators, lobbyists, journalists, attorneys, and leadership positions within the parties and committees. Students were assigned political parties and placed in committees of their particular interests.
Roman held a representative position and debated issues such as the death penalty and the right to bear firearms.
“MIG was an incredible experience because I got to meet new people and debate in the Capitol,” said Roman, of Glenwood. “It was the kind of education that I couldn’t get in the classroom.”
As president of PSC’s Political Science Club and a second year student at MIG, Michael Baratta, of Homewood, knew that MIG would be a great experience. His first year he served as a representative, but this year he took on a more active role as a Whip.
“Taking on a leadership role at MIG was thrilling and made my experience even more valuable,” said Baratta.
Joe Swanson, of Chicago Heights, also enjoyed his MIG experience, serving as a representative.
“I learned how much having a voice matters,” said Swanson. “The entire experience helped me understand how our government works.”
Other PSC students who participated in MIG were Krista Boehm, of Homewood; Eric Freudenberg, of Crete; Michael Maluta, of Homewood; Cheree Morris, of Chicago Heights; and Jacqueline Reyna, of Chicago Heights.
Pictured from left to right: front row: Jeremias Roman, Jacqueline Reyna, and Cheree Morris, and back row: Eric Freudenberg, Michael Baratta, Krista Boehm, Joseph Swanson, and Michael Maluta
PSC STUDENTS FEATURED AT GSU EXHIBIT
[Released 03/17/10] Prairie State College (PSC) student Michael Carr was driving around the city of Chicago when the colors jumped out at him. He saw a beautiful multicolored door on an abandoned building and had to photograph it.
Now his photograph, “Hinged”, is showcased in an exhibit at Governors State University.
Carr, along with PSC students Michelle D. Cox, Bruce Peerson, and Amy Yoder were chosen for the 2010 Illinois Community College Juried Art Exhibition held in the Visual Arts Gallery at Governors State University. Their images are among the 40 images on display selected from more than 250 entries.
“It was a great honor to be chosen for this show,” said Carr. “Photography is about capturing a moment, and I’m pleased my moment is part of this exhibit for everyone to see.”
This is the second year in a row the photographs of Cox and Peerson were chosen for this statewide exhibit.
“I am very excited to be picked for this contest two years in a row,” said Cox. “It is very encouraging to me as an artist, and it makes me proud that I have progressed in my ability this past year.”
Cox’s photograph, Chicago, is the view of the el train from street level on the north side of the city.
“This image is special because first, I love Chicago, and I always will because it is a unique and fascinating city,” said Cox. “I also love this image because I think it has interesting light.”
Peerson’s photo, “Balancing Act”, features a flower bud with water droplets. Yoder’s photo, “The Oak Tree”, features the reflection of a tree on an old barn.
“I pay attention to every detail, and spent a few hours shooting this image,” said Peerson. “It’s nice to be recognized for my work.”
The photographs are on display through March 26. For more information, call (708) 534-5000.
PSC ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF THE HIGH SCHOOL ART EXHIBITION
[Released 03/17/10] Talented artists from four south suburban area high schools have their creative vision on display at Prairie State College (PSC). The annual high school art exhibit, entitled “Creative Vision,” features 46 artists from Beecher High School, Bloom Trail High School, Homewood Flossmoor High School, and Marian Catholic High School.
The exhibit is currently on display through April 8 in the college’s Christopher Art Gallery, located at 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. Hours for the Christopher Art Gallery are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. Visits can be made by appointment.
The PSC art faculty were the jurors for the exhibit and selected the pieces from more than 100 entries. Best of Category winners were chosen in drawing, painting, electronic media, photography, mixed media, and sculpture. Five merit awards also were chosen.
“These students represent an outstanding example of the talent being developed in the high schools in our district, and we are proud to showcase these artistic endeavors,” said Lou Shields, professor of art history at PSC.
The Best of Category winners are as follows: Monika Kasowska, Homewood-Flossmoor High School, Best Drawing; Jessica Kekeis, Marian Catholic High School, Best Painting; Donald Larrieu, Homewood-Flossmoor High School, Best Electronic Media; Ashley Armstrong, Homewood Flossmoor High School, Best Photo; Alexander Wolff, Marian Catholic High School, Best Mixed Media; and Nikki Kamp, Beecher High School, Best Sculpture.
Merit award winners are Kailah Armand, Homewood-Flossmoor High School; Angela Arrivo, Homewood-Flossmoor High School; Maya Hoist, Homewood-Flossmoor High School; Sara Lichtenberg, Homewood-Flossmoor High School; and Tim Tucker, Beecher High School.
Other students included in the exhibit are Jaclyn Ann Adamorris, Caitlyn Childress, Manju Connolly, Lazaro Diaz, Alex Gallinaro, Elle Dio Guardi, Maya Hoist, Emily Kuc-Leach, Hank Kerkhoven, Adam Lundquist, Tim Maxey, Michelle Mayer, Maggie Manning, Kate Robertson, Khari Shelton, and Brook Wians from Homewood-Flossmoor High School. Students from Marian Catholic High School included in the exhibit are Katie Condes, Christine Dawson, Elizabeth Cummings, Brandy Eggermann, Alex Gallinaro, Yesenia Juarez, Casey Liesse, BJ Luster-Bartz, and Brandon McNeal. Students from Bloom Trail High School featured in the exhibit are Tim Becker, Steven Clark, Latisha Mane Curtiss, Bridget Murphy, and Cassandra Lee. Students from Beecher High School in the exhibit are Steven Cooper, Emily Ivers, Tom Polzin, and Tim Tucker.
For more information about the exhibit, or to make an appointment for a visit, contact the Prairie State College Foundation at (708) 709-3636.
Photo attached: Students who attended the reception for the High School Art Exhibition.
PSC TRUCK DRIVER TRAINING PROGRAM PAVES THE PATH FOR A NEW CAREER
[Released 3/10/10] Prairie State College (PSC) is paving the path for those interested in a career as a truck driver with its truck driver training program. Classes run year round with new sessions beginning every month. Information sessions for the program are scheduled for March 18 and 25 at 2 p.m. in Room 133 of the Adult Training and Outreach Center, located on PSC’s main campus, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights.
In the program, students learn the skills to become safe, professional truck drivers, enabling them to secure employment in an entry-level position in the trucking industry. In addition to behind-the-wheel training, students learn logbook keeping and map reading.
“This program is designed to prepare unemployed or under-employed individuals for the commercial driver’s license testing so they can obtain professional truck driver positions with over-the-road trucking companies,” said Dave Wilkinson, coordinator of the truck driver program.
Students benefit from small classroom sizes with a student to teacher ratio of six to one, and an over-the-road ratio of three to one. The small over-the-road ratio gives students more driving time. Classes are taught by professionals who have years of teaching and over-the-road driving experience. Job placement assistance is available upon completion of the program.
The program will be held at a new facility located at 191 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights. The college purchased the former vehicle emissions test station on Halsted Street and the adjacent two vacant lots on Chicago Heights/Glenwood Road last fall to house the program.
Students must be 21 years of age or older, hold a valid State of Illinois license, and meet Department of Transportation medical requirements to enroll in the program. For more information, contact Wilkinson at (708) 709-7811.
WYCOFF NAMED DIRECTOR OF INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH AT PSC
[Released 03/08/10] Joseph Wycoff is the new director of institutional research at Prairie State College (PSC).
In his new position, Wycoff supports the college-wide efforts to create and maintain a data driven environment. His primary responsibility is to collect, analyze, and interpret data to improve overall organizational and institutional effectiveness.
Prior to coming to PSC, Wycoff owned a research firm specializing in services to educational institutions and advanced statistical modeling. His previous experience also includes research manager for the University of Washington and research manager for Cohesion, Inc. Wycoff has a Ph.D. in History from the University of Washington and a M.S. and B.S. in History from Arizona State University.
“Joseph Wycoff’s appointment further enhances the professionalism of our administrative staff,” said Eric C. Radtke, Ph.D. “His expertise in translating research findings will help the college meet the goals of its strategic agenda.”
PSC SUMMER COURSES PROVIDE SEVERAL OPTIONS FOR EVERYONE
[Released 03/08/10] This summer is all about options at Prairie State College (PSC.) Options include credit and non-credit courses, tuition-free courses for high school students, courses for college students home for the summer, and more. Registration for summer courses begins March 22 and continues until classes begin.
Credit courses include two eight-week summer sessions. The first session begins June 1 and ends July 22; the second session begins June 15 and ends August 5. Several four- and six- week classes also are offered.
Students are encouraged to register early to get the courses that best fit their schedules. The summer course schedule is available online at prairiestate.edu and on PSC’s main campus, located at 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. Schedules are mailed to district households and are available at public libraries.
To register, new students must first complete an enrollment application either in person or online. Hours of operation for the Enrollment Services Office are Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Credit courses also provide students who are home from college for the summer with the opportunity to fulfill general education requirements and transfer the credits back to their home college. For more information, visit prairiestate.edu, click on “announcements,” and then “Information for Guest Students for Summer Only” or call Sarah Hein, counselor/transfer coordinator, at (708) 709-3508 or shein@prairiestate.edu.
High school students who plan to graduate in 2011 can take advantage of the college’s tuition-free offer. To be eligible, students must attend a high school in the PSC district, have a GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4-point scale, and have permission from their high school. For more information, contact Beth Wyack, enrollment advisor, at (708) 709-7776.
In addition to the many credit classes offered this summer, PSC offers a number of non-credit, personal and professional development classes, with subjects ranging from computers to yoga. For more information, call PSC’s Matteson Area Center at (708) 709-3750.
PSC Seeks Nominations for Community Service Awards
[Released 03/01/10] More than 61 million people nationwide generously donate their time and talents to their communities. Prairie State College is seeking nominations for those volunteers living in the college’s district for two community services awards: one award to honor a community member and another to honor a PSC graduate.
The first is the Dr. James H. Griffith Community Service Award, given to a 2010 PSC graduate. Nominees should be a person or group who has contributed in an extraordinary way to the community. The award is named after former Trustee Dr. James H. Griffith, who served for 25 years on the Prairie State Board of Trustees.
The second award is the Michael R. Monteleone Community Service Award, given to a community member of the PSC district. Nominees must be a person or group who has contributed in an extraordinary way to education through community service, as either a volunteer or a community leader. A nominee’s service efforts should be within the PSC district, although additional activities in other areas would be recognized. Also, the nominee should not be employed in the community service or public service field. The award is named after former Trustee and Board Chair Michael R. Monteleone, who served on the Board of Trustees for 21 years, from 1981 to 2002.
All nominations must arrive at the PSC President’s Office no later than Friday, April 16. To receive a nomination form or for more information, call Deb Havighorst, executive assistant to the Board of Trustees, at (708) 709-7918.
PSC JAZZ LEADERSHIP AWARD GIVEN TO THORNRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL BAND DIRECTOR
[Released 03/01/10] When the Prairie State College (PSC) music department needed music stands, he bought them. When 700 Chicago area students came to PSC for the Jazz Fest, he volunteered his time. When the Tall Arts Grass Association needed a board member, he stepped up.
That’s just the kind of person Howard Luckey was.
Luckey was a long time social science faculty member at PSC who recently passed away. To honor his dedication to music education in the south suburbs, an award was established in his name.
“Luckey was a true arts patron who understood the importance of the arts in people’s lives and the impact they have on intellectual, creative, and emotional growth,” said Valerie Nicholson, professor of music and coordinator of the college’s annual Jazz Fest.
The Howard Lucky Excellence in Jazz Leadership award honors an individual or group who has, with exceptional humility and vision, consistently and significantly contributed to the advancement of jazz and jazz education in the Chicago south suburban region through educational activities, performances, promotional efforts, and by embracing the spirit of the collective community.
At the college’s Jazz Festival on February 19, the first ever award was bestowed upon David Eanes, director of bands at Thornridge High School.
“A teacher’s effectiveness can be measured by tracing the paths of their former students,” said Nicholson. “The list of David Eanes’ students who have gone on to significant careers as performers and teachers of music is long and impressive including many who are music educators in the south suburbs.”
Roosevelt Griffin, director of bands at Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School in Harvey, was one of Eanes’ students.
“When I was growing up, I didn’t have a father, and he stepped in and became the father figure and role model in my life,” said Griffin. “I apply that same compassion he has for his students to my students.”
This isn’t the first time Eanes was recognized for his dedication to his students. In 2007, he received the prestigious Golden Apple award.
“On behalf of all the jazz educators in the south suburbs, I am happy to accept this award,” said Eanes.
PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE ENROLLMENT AT HISTORICAL HIGH
[Released 02/23/10] Prairie State College (PSC) credit full-time tenth day enrollment for spring 2010 increased nearly 16 percent from a year ago, the highest spring enrollment ever in the history of the college. The previous two spring highs were in 1983 and 2009.
“Prairie State College is a great value with its affordable tuition, small class sizes, and dedicated professors,” said Eric C. Radtke, Ph.D. “Combine that with our variety of course offerings and programs, and it’s no secret why people choose to attend PSC.”
Other factors contributing to the record enrollment include high unemployment rates and the difficult economic situation.
“Prairie State College offers a wide range of programs to give students the knowledge and training to transition into new careers,” said Radtke. “PSC is also a great place to start a bachelor’s degree, saving students thousands on the cost of a college education.”
Enrollment has steadily increased the last several semesters including a 17 percent increase for fall 2009.
The spring report also revealed that 42 percent of the students are enrolled full-time, an 18 percent increase over spring 2009. The average student age continues to remain at 28 years old.
ECONOMIC STRATEGIST SLATED TO SPEAK AT PSC FOUNDATION BREAKFAST
[Released 02/19/10] Chief economists have reported the outlook for the global economy improved dramatically at the end of 2009, and there are many indicators that the economy will continue to strengthen. Learn more about the future of the economy from an expert analyst at the Prairie State College (PSC) Foundation Economic Forecast Breakfast, sponsored by MB Financial Bank.
The event, which raises money for scholarships to benefit PSC students, is Friday, March 19, at 7:30 a.m., at the Olympia Fields Country Club. Markus Schomer, CFA, managing director and global economic strategist, of PineBridge Investments, New York, is the guest speaker.
Schomer is responsible for providing economic forecasts, analysis, and commentary for all groups of the firm. He is a member of various strategy committees and responsible for coordinating the firm’s interest rate and currency strategies. Schomer holds degrees in Economics from the University of Bonn in Germany and the University of East Anglia, in the UK. He also studied at the London School of Economics and is a CFA charterholder.
Individual tickets are $25. Advance registration is required by calling the PSC Foundation at (708) 709-3636. The registration deadline is March 10.
Sponsorships are available. Sponsorships underwrite the costs for the event and allow businesses to use the Economic Forecast Breakfast as a “friendraiser” for clients and/or key employees, while introducing new friends to the PSC Foundation. A table sponsorship for $300 reserves a table for 10 and includes continental breakfast and recognition listings in the program and on event signage. A friend-raiser sponsorship for $75 reserves two seats and includes continental breakfast and recognition listings in the program and on event signage.
For more information about the Economic Forecast Breakfast, or to make a scholarship donation, contact the Foundation at (708) 709-3636.
PSC OFFERING FULL-TUITION SCHOLARSHIP FOR HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS
[Released 02/19/10] There is no escaping that college prices are rising. According to the College Board, students have been paying 4.4 to 5.8 percent more for their college education at private and public four-year colleges and universities. Prairie State College (PSC) is an affordable option with low tuition rates and plenty of financial aid opportunities. One way PSC is making college more affordable is by awarding 45 full-tuition scholarships totaling nearly $200,000 to graduating high school seniors.
PSC Board of Trustees scholarships cover tuition and fees for each semester the student is enrolled at PSC. The scholarships recognize outstanding accomplishments, high academic achievement, and an overall commitment to personal excellence. The scholarships are awarded to one student from each of the district high schools in the categories of Honor, Achievement, and Technical. PSC also offers a two-year scholarship to the valedictorian and salutatorian from each district high school if they choose to attend PSC. High schools in the PSC district are Beecher, Bloom, Bloom Trail, Crete-Monee, Homewood-Flossmoor, Marian Catholic, Rich East, Rich South, and Rich Central.
“The Board of Trustees are pleased to offer these scholarships to further the educational opportunities of our district’s high school graduates,” said Mark Fazzini, PSC board chair.
Students must maintain residency in Community College District 515 throughout the duration of the two-year scholarship. The scholarships must be used consecutively, and students must begin at PSC by the fall semester immediately following high school graduation.
To apply for the Board of Trustees scholarships, visit prairiestate.edu. From Choose a Link on the homepage, select Scholarships, and then Board of Trustees Scholarships. The application deadline is April 1, 2010.
For more information about PSC’s Board of Trustees scholarships, contact Carissa Davis, scholarship advisor, at (708) 709-3562 or cdavis@prairiestate.edu.
PSC TO HOST ARTWORK OF AREA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
[Released 02/17/10] Students from several south suburban area high schools will have their “Creative Vision” on display at the Prairie State College (PSC) juried art exhibition. The exhibit entitled, “Creative Vision”, runs from March 8 through April 8 in the college’s Christopher Art Gallery. A reception will be held on Wednesday, March 10 from 6 to 8 p.m., with the awards ceremony at 7 p.m. Winners will be announced at that time.
All high schools in the PSC district were invited to participate in the annual show, which features a variety of media including computer art, drawing, graphic design, mixed media, painting photography, and sculpture. Entries were submitted through the high school art departments and judged by PSC’s art faculty.
Hours for the Christopher Art Gallery are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. Visits can 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 SPEECH TEAM COLLECTS MORE MEDALS AT RECENT COMPETITION
[Released 02/17/10] The Prairie State College (PSC) Speech Team is racking up the medals this season. With the season halfway finished, the team recently added another 12 medals to its growing collection.
At the College of DuPage Tournament, Terrance Clanton, of Park Forest, was named tournament champion in novice persuasion, and Sharnita Redley, of Country Club Hills, was named tournament champion in novice poetry. Jeremias Roman, of Glenwood, received fourth place in novice speech to entertain and in varsity program oral interpretation, while Christina Sigers, of University Park, received fifth place in varsity poetry. Redley also received sixth place in varsity persuasion.
At the Highland Community College Tournament, the team received a fifth place overall award with Clanton named tournament champion in persuasion and Roman named tournament champion in program oral interpretation. Etta Oben, of Matteson, received a fourth place in impromptu speaking while sixth place wins were achieved by Redley in persuasion and Sigers in Poetry Interpretation.
Other students competing in the tournaments included Jimmie Johnson, of Matteson, and Sydney Milligan, of Olympia Fields.
The team is coached by professors of communication Ed Schwarz, Elighie Wilson, and David Naze.
“We are off to a pretty good start to the second half of the season,” said Naze. “Now we are ready to gear up for the home stretch as we look forward to the post-season tournaments.”
The team’s next tournament is at Harper College.
EIGHT PSC STUDENTS FEATURED IN UNION STREET GALLERY EXHIBIT
[Released 02/10/10] A picture is worth a thousand words.
Prairie State College (PSC) student Patricia Sharkey would agree. She recently won second place at the Union Street Gallery exhibit, “The Positive Image”, for her photograph, Misty Mountain NW Oregon. While the image features a sunset over the mountains in northwest Oregon, there is a story behind the image.
Sharkey, who bought her first camera when she was in the eighth grade, has visited almost every state to capture images. She has four states left to visit to complete her photographic journey of the U.S.—North Dakota, West Virginia, Alaska, and Hawaii. This was her first trip to Oregon.
“I went on an eight day camping trip with my husband with the sole purpose of taking photos,” said Sharkey, of Steger. “I stumbled upon the majestic mountain view on our last evening and was inspired to take this photo—the last photo I took on the trip.”
In addition to Sharkey’s image, seven other PSC students were chosen for the Union Street Galley exhibit. They are Michael Carr, of Lansing; Leonard Ferris, of Calumet City; Irene Ganas, of Crete; Shelly Hokanson, of Lockport; Evelyn Kloese, of Oak Forest; Beth Schimanski, of Crete; and Danielle Smith, of Crete.
Hokanson’s photo depicts the front of a building in historic downtown Lockport. While the image is simple, it also has a story behind it.
“My photo is a great juxtaposition of the quiet of more rural days and the hustle and bustle of modern life,” said Hokanson. “The mail in the mailbox told me they haven’t been home in some time, but as much as that door handle has been used, I'm sure they'll be back soon.”
Hokanson is a professor of information technology at the college. She is enrolled in one of the college’s photography courses.
“I personally encouraged our students to participate, and they did,” said Don Kouba, professor and coordinator of the photography program at PSC. “I feel students need to look for ways to share their work and exhibit as often as possible. I'm very proud of the work of our people and the impact they had on the first ever all photography exhibit hosted by Union Street Gallery.”
The exhibit runs through February 26. The Union Street Gallery is located at 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights. The hours are Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 12 noon to 4 p.m. and the second Friday of the month from 6 to 9 p.m.
PSC PROFESSOR CHOSEN TO PARTICIPATE IN GLOBAL SKILLS FOR COLLEGE COMPLETION GRANT THROUGH GATES FOUNDATION
[Released 02/02/10] Jason Evans, Prairie State College (PSC) associate professor of English, is one of 26 professors chosen from 16 community colleges across the country to participate in The Global Skills for College Completion (GSCC) Grant. The grant is sponsored by the Gates Foundation and is designed to develop break-through innovations in teaching to improve pass rates and basic skills in writing and mathematics. The focus is on developing improved methods for the delivery of developmental education.
PSC was one of 30 community colleges invited to nominate two faculty members for consideration to participate in this groundbreaking study. Brian Garant, assistant professor of mathematics, was also nominated by PSC.
“The fact that we were one of only 30 colleges invited (out of 1,200 across the U.S.) is testimony to PSC’s strong reputation for academic excellence,” said PSC President Dr. Eric C. Radtke.
The GSCC grant promises to advance the role of technology at community colleges beyond online courses. The grant is driven by an online community of outstanding basic skills faculty in 16 states on 13 campuses. The charge is to harness the power of technology to fundamentally change how educators do their job.
Evans has attended the first face-to-face meeting of the 26 faculty participants. “We are developing an e-Portfolio to showcase what has worked – and what hasn’t – in our classrooms, using evidence of how and why students have learned particular skills,” Evans said. In addition, Evans is working with a small group online to examine and learn from one another’s teaching. As part of the process, Evans will be videotaped three times a semester and create online presentations for the other participants. The overall goal is to discover what works and what doesn’t for basic skills students in order to raise the pass rates in developmental English and math to 80 percent. Evans’ participation in the grant amounts to a total payment of $48,800.00 to PSC.
“I’m thrilled to be part of the project and to share what I learn with my colleagues at Prairie State,” Evans said.
GSCC is a collaborative effort that includes the League for Innovation in Community College, LaGuardia Community College, Knowledge in the Public Interest, and the Community College Research Center. The GSCC grant is from The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and is part of a larger award of $12.9 million in technology-related grants that promise to fundamentally change how community college students are educated and, ultimately, improve their graduation rates.
TEN PSC FACULTY MEMBERS AWARDED TENURE
[Released 02/01/10]Prairie State College (PSC) takes great care in mentoring and evaluating its faculty during the tenure process. At the January 26 Board of Trustees meeting, 10 faculty met the college’s expectations for tenure including commitment to student success, collaboration with their peers, and dedication to the college’s mission and core values.
“Our tenured faculty are the core of our academic programs; they represent quality and excellence,” said Dr. Eric C. Radtke, college president. “It is my pride and pleasure to be part of an institution with such high-caliber faculty.”
Faculty receiving tenure are Dr. Christine Brooms, chemistry; Alison Drake, early childhood education; Brian Garant, mathematics; Maureen Grady, nursing; Dr. André Halliburton, Psychology; Max Hammond, Humanities; Sarah Hein, transfer counselor; Kevin Marks, mathematics; Tamika Montgomery, career counselor; and Linda Zroskie, Nursing.
In addition to preparing an extensive teaching portfolio, faculty candidates are evaluated by their colleagues, students, and dean.
“The tenure process at PSC is rigorous and assures our faculty fulfill the faculty standard of excellence,” said Dr. Adenuga Atewologun, vice president of academic affairs.
Tenure is effective August 2010.
Pictured from left to right: Dr. André Halliburton, Tamika Montgomery, Max Hammond, Sarah Hein, Linda Zroskie, Dr. Christine Brooms, Alison Drake, Maureen Grady, Brian Garant, and Kevin Marks.PSC’S ANNUAL JAZZ FESTIVAL CONCERT SET FOR FEB.19
[Released 01/29/10] The south suburbs premier jazz concert featuring some of the nation’s top jazz artists returns to Prairie State College (PSC).
The 22nd annual Jazz Fest will be held on Friday, February 19 at 7:30 p.m., in the PSC auditorium. The college is located at 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. General admission is $12; students and senior citizens tickets are $8. Tickets are available in advance in the PSC Business Office. Hours for the Business Office are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets also are available at the door.
The concert will showcase the talents of Chicago trumpeter Orbert Davis and New Orleans saxophonist Ed Petersen as well as Larry Gray on bass, PSC’s own professor of music Valerie Nicholson on piano, and Dana Hall on drums. Hall was recently recognized by the Chicago Tribune as one of the Top Chicagoans of the Year for his achievements in arts and culture, the only professional musician selected for this honor.
To honor a long time supporter of the Jazz Festival and music education, the inaugural Howard Luckey Excellence in Jazz Leadership Award will be bestowed on a person in the community with the same spirit and dedication as Luckey. Luckey was a long time social science faculty member who recently passed away.
“Howard was a true arts patron; he understood the importance of the arts in people’s lives and the impact they have on intellectual, creative, and emotional growth,” said Nicholson. “This award is meant to give recognition to a person or group of people who have provided extensive and consistent support of jazz in our region through teaching, performing, or organizing in a spirit of humility and community-mindedness that Howard demonstrated.”
The PSC Jazz Festival also brings together local junior high and high school jazz musicians for two days of instrumental clinics led by the featured artists. The clinicians offer the students their expertise and instruction in technique and performance.
Those who attend the evening concert can also enjoy the current Christopher Art Gallery exhibit, “We the People Who Are Blacker than Blue.” The gallery will be open before the concert through intermission.
For more information on the Jazz Festival, or to purchase tickets to Friday’s concert, call the College at (708) 709-3500.
PSC SEEKS AFRICAN-AMERICAN PROFESSIONALS TO NETWORK WITH STUDENTS
[Released 01/29/10] At some point in a young man’s life, he has an occasion to wear a necktie. Many young men don’t know how to tie one and perhaps don’t have a male figure in their life to teach them.
Prairie State College (PSC) is seeking African-American male professionals, both currently working and retired, to participate in its annual networking event, “Ties That Bind or Knot: Strengthening Ties Between African-American Males.”
During the invitation only event for students, the professionals will spend a few hours encouraging, motivating, inspiring, and advising young men from area high schools and colleges. In addition, the professionals will show the young men how to tie a necktie.
The event will be held on Thursday, February 25, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Matteson Holiday Inn. Professionals interested in participating in the event should contact Sean Smith, coordinator of the college’s Protégé Program, at (708) 709-3912 or ssmith@prairiestate.edu or visit prairiestate.edu and click on “Announcements” and then “Ties That Bind or Knot Professional Registration Form.” Professionals are encouraged to RSVP for the event, but can show up the night of the event without reservation.
“Just two hours of a professional’s time could result in a lifetime of change for a young student,” said Smith. “We hope that professionals could provide inside industry information to students who are choosing a major and planning their college path, which will shape and develop their future.”
The event is part of the college’s Protégé Program, which addresses the issues facing collegiate minority males in the areas of enrollment, retention, and graduation. The Protégé Program is a member of the South Metropolitan Higher Education Consortium (SMHEC) Brother2Brother regional initiative between 17 member schools including two- and four-year institutions and selected feeder high schools.
The Protégé Program is partially-funded by the Predominately Black Institutions Program. In accordance with the Predominately Black Institutions Program, the grant-funded portion of the Excellence=Men of Color in 2 Programs at Prairie State College for fiscal year 2010 is 100 percent financed with federal funds totaling $600,000.
PSC LATE START CLASSES BEGIN IN FEBRUARY
[Released 01/22/10] If starting college classes in January is not an option, consider enrolling in Prairie State College’s (PSC) Late Start Courses.
PSC’s Late Start classes begin the week of February 12. Courses run for 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 the 16-week counterparts. The courses also carry the same amount of credits and satisfy requirements for students working toward a degree or certificate.
Late Start course offerings include art, biology, economics, English, history, humanities, computers, Web site design, algebra, music, philosophy, photography, reading, psychology, and sociology.
Registration for spring Late Start classes is ongoing and will continue until the classes begin or reach capacity. Course 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. For more information about programs or course offerings, call the Office of Counseling and Academic Advising at (708) 709-3506.
PSC AMONG INNOVATION AWARD WINNERS
[Released 01/11/10] Prairie State College (PSC) was one of nine colleges recognized as an Innovation Award Winner by the Illinois Council of Community College Administrators (ICCCA) for its Man Up! Program. The Innovation Award is presented to community colleges whose creative programs and services help its students.
The objective of the Man Up Program! is to enhance the success, retention, and graduation of African American male students. The program is in response to the College’s recognition that many black male students were not continuing at PSC after their first semester, or even mid-semester. This was of concern at the time since 52 percent of PSC students are African American. As a result, PSC asked four black male professors in four different disciplines to lead the program. The one-credit hour Man Up! course was first offered in Fall 2008 and enforced guidelines that would lead to a successful college career. It gave the professors the opportunity to welcome and initiate a new generation of black male students into college. The class discussions focus on African American male identity and relationships, goal setting, learning styles, motivation, and communication skills.
Man Up! has been successful with its 155 participants since it began. “We received accolades for the Man Up! College Success Program that was a brainchild of PSC’s former Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Uzureau,” said Mary Reaves, vice president of student affairs and dean of students. But, the most important feedback has come from the students who enrolled in the program. The course evaluations for the Fall 2008 and Spring 2009 courses were very positive and have proven to make a difference in students’ lives.
FLOYD ATKINS' WORK NEXT CHRISTOPHER ART GALLERY EXHIBIT
[Released 01/08/10] Race is a controversial topic often discussed amongst members of society and the subject of art for hundreds of years. An art exhibit coming to Prairie State College (PSC) will explore race through the eyes of one Chicago artist.
“We the People Who Are Blacker than Blue” featuring new works by Floyd Atkins, will be held from January 19 through February 19 in the college’s Christopher Art Gallery, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. This exhibit is one of a number of events being held on campus to celebrate Black History Month. An artists’ reception will take place on Thursday, February 4 from 4:30-8:00 p.m. “Hopefully, this show with its extremely Black figures will show how common, everyday life is to a beautiful race of people, dispelling a warp and distorted psyche that has been with our country since its Constitution was written,” Atkins said.
Floyd Atkins, of Chicago, has been painting, drawing, and using various forms of mixed media for many years. Atkins is a former art educator in the Chicago Public School system where he proudly brought the creative process to our youth. A graduate of Clark University with a degree in Fine Art, Atkins studied under the renowned artist John Riddle. He also studied at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and the Art Institute of Chicago, where he lectured on art history in the early eighties.
Born and raised on the south side of Chicago during the sixties, Atkins formed a desire to interpret and put in a tangible form the society around him that was molding his way of thinking. As Atkins has noted in the past, his desire is for his work to open a dialogue where exploring the “truth” is a thought provoking experience.
Hours for the Christopher Art Gallery are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. Visits can 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 STUDENT RECOGNIZED IN INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST
[Released 1/7/10] A student at Prairie State College (PSC) recently received an honorable mention at the fourth annual English Language National Geographic International Photography Contest. Bruce Peerson, of Crete, was recognized for his photo, entitled, “Ice Land.”
Over 200,000 submissions from around the world were sent to the National Geographic Society’s headquarters in Washington D.C and 21 people were given awards.
Peerson captured the photo in December 2008 while driving late at night in the south suburbs. He noticed the street was coated in ice and the street lights gave it a rare glow. Peerson submitted the photo, along with five others, to the contest in spring 2009.
Peerson, who has pursued photography as a hobby for two years, would like to have a career in photography. He describes his work as unconventional and does not try to mimic other photographers. “I’ve seen their work and I aspire to be like them. But, I like to make my own discoveries,” said Peerson.
Peerson has been taking classes with photographic studies Professor Don Kouba since coming to PSC in the fall 2005. “The classes here are excellent in what they allow you to do,” says Peerson, who praises his professors for guiding him, without stifling creativity. Peerson is expecting to graduate in spring 2010 with an A.A.S. in Photographic Studies. To view Peerson’s work visit his website at www.overfocused.com.
Jennifer Stoner
Executive Director of Communications and Marketing
(708) 709-3949
jstoner@prairiestate.edu
Jill Yott
Communications Specialist
(708) 709-2948
jyott@prairiestate.edu