Waycross College Foundation kicks off 2008 campaign

Members of the Waycross College Foundation Board of Trustees share a few moments with Waycross College administration, faculty and staff following the board's April 23 luncheon meeting.

The Board of Trustees of the Waycross College Foundation held its annual luncheon meeting April 23 in the James M. Dye Student Services Building to kickoff the 2008 Annual Fund campaign.

With a goal in place of $110,000, the Board is excited about meeting and exceeding the goal – a successful trend in the last several years.

James Willis, president of the Foundation, is looking forward to this year’s campaign and the leadership of Kathy Hackel, campaign chairperson.

“I would love to see us surpass our goal and be able to meet every deserving student’s needs,” said Willis. “With Kathy’s leadership, I have no doubt that we will be ultra successful this year.”

Hackel sees both immediate and future benefits from the public’s contributions to this year’s campaign.

“(Contributing to the Annual Fund) is one way the people of Waycross/Ware County can help make sure that the job force in our area is educated to meet the demands of today and of the future,” she said.

The monies raised each year through the campaign help to provide valuable scholarships to Waycross College students. This past year, 72 students received Foundation scholarships.

Dr. David Palmer, president of Waycross College, sees the work of the Foundation not only as a tremendous asset to the College but to the overall mission of the University System of Georgia.

“The University System – and the governor – want to create a more educated Georgia. (They) want all of the colleges and universities within the University System to ‘partner’ with their local community (and) make it as financially affordable as possible for students to embark upon their higher education,” said Dr. Palmer. “That’s exactly what we’re doing, and we’re doing it through the (great help of) the Foundation.”

In addition to kicking off this year’s campaign, board members were introduced to the College’s two new vice presidents – Dr. Neil Aspinwall, vice president for enrollment and student services, and Dr. Mark Van Den Hende, vice president and dean for academic affairs. Both gave a brief overview of their responsibilities and told the board of some of the goals both have set for their respective divisions.

Stephanie Steuver and Jared Wozny, both graduating sophomores and recipients of Waycross College Foundation scholarships, expressed appreciation to the board for the opportunity to benefit from a Foundation scholarship during their time at the College.

“Having this (scholarship) has enabled me to concentrate on reaching my goals of obtaining an associate’s degree in a timely manner and continuing on to (earn) my bachelor’s degree,” said Steuver. “The Waycross College Foundation scholarships (have been) an inspiration to me and will continue to be an inspiration to future students.”

Wozny echoed Steuver’s comments and thanked the board for its hard work.

“The funds reserved for me by the Foundation over the past two semesters has eased my education at Waycross College tremendously,” Wozny said. “I would like to thank you for the opportunity to represent the Foundation as a scholarship recipient. Your help has gone a long way.”

Each member of the Board of Trustees is elected to serve a three-year term. In addition to Willis, Dr. Palmer, and Hackel, members include Judge Mike Boggs, Lylburn Booker, Teresa Bowen, Deborah Carter, Terry Crosby, Sue Johnson, Robert Odum, Cindy Sowell and Huey Spearman. Also Happie Stewart, Berry Tanner, Sam Wylie and Phil Wysong.

The current board is also served by four members who have earned Trustee Emeritus status. They include T.G. Crosby, Owen Herrin, Ann Packer and Alvin Ratliff.

Bill Deason, vice president for business affairs at Waycross College, serves as board treasurer. Taylor Hereford, the College’s director of development and community services, serves as board secretary. Dr. Anthony Hendrix, professor of psychology/sociology, and Stacey Santana, president-elect of the Student Government Association, serve the board as faculty representative and student representative, respectively.

For more information on how to make a contribution to the Waycross College Foundation’s 2008 Annual Fund campaign, contact a member of the Board of Trustees or the Office of Development and Community Services, (912) 449-7510.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

PREP students learn about college life, space exploration

Pierce County students in the Post-Secondary Readiness Enrichment Program (PREP) at Waycross College pause for a group picture in front of the Coca-Cola Space Science Center on the campus of Columbus State University April 24.

Pierce County students participating in the Post-Secondary Readiness Enrichment Program (PREP) through Waycross College learned about college life and space exploration during a field trip to Columbus, Ga. April 24.

Students toured Columbus State University (CSU) where they learned about life on a college campus and also about college academics.

Following the tour of CSU, the group participated in a ‘Voyage to Mars’ simulation at the Challenger Space Center – one of 50 facilities around the country started by the families of the astronauts who were lost in the January 1986 Challenger disaster. The Challenger Space Center is located in the Coca-Cola Space Science Center on the CSU campus.

During the simulation, each student was assigned a particular job and all had to work together to complete the mission to Mars successfully.

Angel Rowland, PREP coordinator, said the main purpose of the trip was to not only let the students see campus life at a university but to also show them a potential career that would require earning a college education.

The PREP program was started at Waycross College in 1996 as a way to help prepare middle and high school students for the demands of attending college.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

‘The Queen’s Decree’ to be presented May 10

The public is invited to attend a performance of ‘The Queen’s Decree’ Saturday, May 10 at 6:30 p.m. in the Waycross College Auditorium. Admission is free.

‘The Queen’s Decree’ is a continuation of the ‘Fairy Tale Land’ adventures. In this production, the main characters – Young William and his sister Lizzy – realize dreams really do come true but not without a little help from friends and family.

Written and directed by Sheila and Sheryl Kitchen, and featuring music from Piper’s Dance and Hannah Montana, ‘The Queen’s Decree’ includes a cast of two third grade and two seventh grade students.

“(The cast has) worked very hard to put on a wonderful play,” said a CLEPPA spokesperson. “We hope everyone will come out and support these students.”

‘The Queen’s Decree’ is a production of the Creative Learning Enrichment Program through the Performing Arts (CLEPPA) at Waycross College through the College’s Office of Continuing Education. CLEPPA is a new drama program that works with 3rd-7th graders.

CLEPPA will be sponsoring a four-week summer day camp beginning July 7. The camp will run Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on the Waycross College campus. For more information, please contact a CLEPPA instructor at (912) 337-9741 or email cleppas@hotmail.com.

Summer Continuing Education classes offered at WC

The Office of Continuing Education at Waycross College has announced its summer schedule of continuing education classes.

‘Intro to Computers’, a six week course taught by Jerry Marsh, helps students learn basic concepts of the computer and also computer maintenance. Time permitting, an overview of various software applications would also be available. ‘Intro to Computers’ begins May 6 and will be taught on Tuesday nights from 6 – 8:30 p.m.

Students will have the opportunity to learn secrets of playing the piano during a one evening course entitled ‘Instant Piano for Hopelessly Busy People.’ Taught by David Haynes, ‘Instant Piano’ will allow students the opportunity to learn how to play any song, in any style, in any key by learning chords and not notes. ‘Instant Piano’ will be offered Monday, Aug. 11 from 6 – 9:30 p.m.

‘Life and Health Insurance Pre-Licensing’ is a 40-hour preparation course for the Agents’ Life and Health Examination given by the state of Georgia. The course is taught by John Penland and is offered on select dates.

The Creative Learning Enrichment Program through the Performing Arts (CLEPPA) offers a wide variety of health and safety classes. Students may choose from first aid, CPR, workplace injury control, blood borne pathogens training, and babysitting classes. The date and time of each class varies, and interested students are encouraged to call (912) 337-9741 or email cleppas@hotmail.com for more information.

For additional information on the computer, piano, or insurance pre-licensing classes, contact Waycross College’s Office of Continuing Education at (912) 449-7508 or email dcs@waycross.edu. A schedule of classes is also available online by visiting the College’s website – waycross.edu – and clicking on ‘Continuing Education’ in the ‘Quick Links’ section.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Waycross College announces members of the graduating class of 2008

Justice Carol W. Hunstein

The thirty-second Waycross College commencement ceremony will be held on Friday, May 9, 2008 at 7 p.m. in the Waycross College Gymnasium located in the Physical Education Building.

This year’s commencement speaker will be Carol W. Hunstein, Presiding Justice of the Supreme Court of Georgia.

Justice Hunstein will address the following 2008 graduates who will receive degrees.

Baxley - Associate of Arts: Elizabeth Nicole King, Psychology

Associate of Science: Lindsay JoAnn Douglas, Radiologic Technology; Stephanie C. McRae, Teacher Education; Lakshmi P. Pallam, Radiologic Technology; LuGena Marie Todd, Teacher Education

Blackshear - Associate of Arts: Thomas L. Ammons, General/Interdisciplinary Studies; Wendy Natasha Christmas, Criminal Justice; Roger Isham Crews, General/Interdisciplinary Studies; Keely Herrin Dowling, Business Administration; Thomas Dewitt Dowling Jr., Business Administration; Brent Michael Henderson, Business Administration; Jessica Nicole McCollough, Business Administration; Stephanie Leann Steuver, Business Administration

Associate of Science: Thomas L. Ammons, Chemistry; Jason Hersey, Teacher Education; Jacob Clinton Hyers, Biological Sciences; Terry L. Lairsey, Teacher Education; Karen Christa Larson, Teacher Education; Kalie Jean Murphy, Physical Therapy; Tony J. Salcedo, Teacher Education; Kimberly Lynn Sikes, Teacher Education; Christopher R. Tolbert, Teacher Education; Dana Rochelle Welch, Teacher Education; Katelyn Rebecca Wright, Teacher Education

Douglas - Associate of Arts: Joseph F. Matthews, Business Administration

Evans - Associate of Science: Christopher Clift Roush, Pre-Engineering Technology

Folkston - Associate of Arts: Traci S. Stewart, Criminal Justice

Hoboken - Associate of Science: Amanda Jean King, Teacher Education; Amy Lynn Lee, Teacher Education; Britni Candace Morgan, Teacher Education

Homerville - Associate of Science: Kellie Ann Griffis, Teacher Education

Jesup - Associate of Arts: JoEllen Marie Yurgalavage, Business Administration

Associate of Science: Cindy Todd Blanton, Teacher Education; Peggy Jones, Nursing from So. Ga. College; Ngoc Le, Chemistry; Alana R. Tatum, Radiologic Technology

Manor - Associate of Arts: Ashlea Gayle Morgan, Business Administration

Associate of Science: Darlene G. Daniel, Teacher Education

Mershon - Associate of Science: Ashley T. Hunter, Teacher Education

Associate of Applied Science: James Adam Dixon, Advanced Machine Tool Technology

Midway - Associate of Science: Felicia Lewton, Nursing from So. Ga. College

Nahunta - Associate of Arts: Heather Louise Thomas, Business Administration

Associate of Science: Amanda C. Crews, Teacher Education; Kristy H. O’Neal, Teacher Education; Lindsay Brookshire Thrift, Chemistry

Nicholls - Associate of Arts: Thomas Gardner Crosby III, Business Administration

Odum - Associate of Arts: Justin Blake Hall, Business Administration

Patterson - Associate of Arts: Brandi Lee Balbach, Criminal Justice

Associate of Science: Joseph Michael Herrin , Pre-Nursing; Joseph Michael Herrin, Chemistry; Samantha Hall May, Teacher Education; Bonnie Jean Ritch, Teacher Education

Screven - Associate of Arts: Sheree M. Gosseck, Business Administration

Savannah - Associate of Science: Tania Johnson, Nursing from So. Ga. College; Shameka Hurst, Nursing from So. Ga. College

St. George - Associate of Science: Caleb Lee Powell, Teacher Education

Waresboro - Associate of Arts: Brittany Tess Aldridge, Business Administration

Waycross - Associate of Arts: Jonathan Daniel Beach, General/Interdisciplinary Studies; William Chipman Hill Boyle III, General/Interdisciplinary Studies; William Reid Burkhardt, Business Administration; Michelle Lynn Crawford, Psychology; Harry Clyde Davis III, General/Interdisciplinary Studies; Carolyn Rena` Hickox, Business Administration; Kristen Higgs, Criminal Justice; Christopher Shawn Hodge, Business Administration; Jamie Elizabeth Lynn, Business Administration; Brandy Johnson Murray, Psychology; Jonathan A. Nease, Business Administration; Larrine E. Redmond, Psychology; Darlene Studivent Sykes, Sociology; Dana Michele Turner, Psychology

Associate of Science: Megan Elizabeth Atkinson, Teacher Education; Courtney Crystal Bell, Teacher Education; Toni Martisha Bellamy, Pre-Nursing; Ashlee Michelle Blount, Biological Sciences; Ashley Nicole Booth, Teacher Education; Tabitha Ann Cady, Teacher Education; Neikeisha Lataye’ Carr, Teacher Education; Angela Linton Carter, Teacher Education; Ciearra Cherrelle Causer, Teacher Education; Sarah Emily Dawsey, Chemistry; Tommie Deanna Dickson, Teacher Education; Heather Franklin, Nursing from So. Ga. College; Jessie Elizabeth Harris, Teacher Education; Amy LeAnne Hendrix, Teacher Education; Beau Brandon Joiner, Pre-Nursing; Scott Jackson King, Mathematical Subjects; Tiffany Renee Lee, Pre-Nursing; Erin Alisha McCorvey, Teacher Education; Wendy Michelle Mercer, Teacher Education; E. John Miller, Teacher Education; Rajiv Manel Nayak, Computer Information Systems; Wendy Renee Page, Teacher Education; Hetal C. Patel, Nursing from So. Ga. College; Laura M. Pearson, Teacher Education; Gentry Robbins, Biological Sciences; Ashley Miranda Scott, Teacher Education; Robin Renee Sowell, Teacher Education; Kelly Smith Thrift, Teacher Education; Brandi Tuten, Nursing from So. Ga. College; Clayton Taylor Williams, Chemistry; Karen Williamson, Nursing from So. Ga. College; Jared Javan Wozny, Pre-Engineering Technology

Guests of the graduating class are encouraged to arrive early due to limited seating and parking. Members of the graduating class may request a parking permit from the College’s business office for a guest needing special parking arrangements. A security staff member will be near the Physical Education parking area to provide directions for special parking and the drop off area for elderly or physically challenged individuals.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Department of Labor sponsors Job Fair on WC campus

A representative from Easter Seals shares information about the organization with two prospective employees during the April 10 Job Fair sponsored by the Georgia Department of Labor’s Waycross Career Center.

The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) sponsored a Job Fair April 10 on the Waycross College campus.

Seventy-five prospective employees visited with representatives from eight area employers seeking to fill vacant positions within their companies and organizations.

According to Patrick Simmons, employment marketing representative for the GDOL’s Waycross Career Center, four fairs are sponsored annually by the Center. This was Waycross College’s first time to serve as a host for one of the fairs.

“We had a good response from this fair,” said Simmons. “The employers were very satisfied with the applicant pool.”

Those companies and organizations participating in the Job Fair included Belk, Burger King, Easter Seals, Goody’s, JcPenney, Laura Walker State Park, Sonic, and the Ware County Recreation Department.

Simmons said preliminary plans are for the next Job Fair to be scheduled late summer or early fall at the railroad depot in downtown Waycross.

For more information about the GDOL’s Waycross Career Center, contact Simmons at (912) 285-6105. For general information about Waycross College, call (912) 449-7600 or visit the College’s website – www.waycross.edu.

Area schools compete in fifth annual math tournament

VARSITY TEAM WINNERS

1st place - Ware Co. HS (left); 2nd place - Brantley Co. HS "A" (center); 3rd place - Brantley Co. HS "B" (right)

JUNIOR VARSITY TEAM WINNERS

1st place - Pierce Co. HS (left); 2nd place - Ware Co. HS (center); 3rd place - Ware Magnet (right)

INDIVIDUAL VARSITY WINNERS

1st place - Sandeep Nayak (Ware Co. HS); 2nd place - James Clark (Brantley Co. HS); 3rd place - Bob Davis (Brantley Co. HS)

INDIVIDUAL JUNIOR VARSITY WINNERS

1st place - Leonard Smith (Ware Co. HS); 2nd place - Casie Altman (Pierce Co. HS); 3rd place - Dave Bell (Pierce Co. HS)

TEAM SPONSORS

(L-R): Kathy Echols (Pierce Co. HS), Diane Griffis (Pierce Co. HS), Alicia Crawford (Ware Magnet), Teresa Soper (Ware Co. HS), Keena White (Brantley Co. HS)

Fifty-two students representing four area high schools gathered on the Waycross College campus April 11 for the fifth annual Waycross College Math Tournament.

Eight teams – five varsity and three junior varsity – representing Brantley County High School, Pierce County High School, Ware County High School, and the Ware County School of Agricultural, Forestry, and Environmental Sciences (Ware Magnet), competed in team and individual categories for first, second, and third place awards.

Students participated in a 75-minute written exam which covered algebra, calculus, geometry, statistics, and trigonometry. Junior varsity answered questions from algebra and geometry.

Following the written exam, varsity members participated in a team-oriented ‘ciphering round’. All teams were given the same ten questions and three minutes to answer each one. The quicker the teams answered each question, the more points they received.

For varsity teams, winners were determined by a combination of scores from the written exam and the ‘ciphering round’. Junior varsity winners were determined through the written exam.

Ware County High School captured first place in the varsity team category. Brantley County High School, which fielded two varsity teams, rounded out the top three with ‘team A’ finishing second and ‘team B’ finishing third.

Pierce County High School took first place in the junior varsity team category. Ware County High School finished second while Ware Magnet came in third.

In the individual varsity competition, Sandeep Nayak from Ware County High School took top honors. James Clark and Bob Davis, both from Brantley County High School, finished second and third, respectively.

Leonard Smith from Ware County High School captured first place in the individual junior varsity competition. Casie Altman and Dave Bell, both from Pierce County High School, took second and third place, respectively.

Dr. Lisa Howell, assistant professor of mathematics at Waycross College and tournament coordinator, was pleased with each part of the tournament.

“I thought it went great. I felt very comfortable with the entire process,” she said. “I also received a lot of positive feedback from the (teams’) coaches, which is very nice.”

Howell was quick to point to other Waycross College faculty and students who helped make the tournament a success – Cori Crews, instructor of business; Melissa Giblin, instructor of mathematics; Roberta Lacefield, associate professor of mathematics; Sara Selby, associate professor of English; Dr. Molly Smith, professor of biology; and students Amber Day and Cristina Relyea.

Howell also wanted to thank other college departments who assisted in providing items for the event. Refreshments for the students and coaches were provided by the Waycross College Foundation. The Office of Student Services furnished all teams and sponsors with pizza during the scoring break. Rob Wingfield, assistant director of admissions, provided general College information to everyone interested.

Lacefield was heartened by how each student took the tournament seriously, both in and out of the competition.

“After the time had expired for the written exam, we still had students in the testing room who were not finished. They were either trying to complete those last few questions or checking their work. At that point they were required to turn in what they had,” she said. “In addition, many teams huddled outside in the commons area after the exam comparing notes and answers. To me, that shows how seriously they take mathematics.”

Preliminary plans call for next year’s tournament to be scheduled for February 2009.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

“FoxPrints Live” to be performed at Waycross College

The Waycross College Drama Club will present “FoxPrints Live”, a showcase of material published in the College’s literary magazine, this Thursday through Saturday, April 17-19, in the College’s auditorium.

The show is free and open to the public.

Performance times will be 12:15 p.m. on April 17 and 7 p.m. on April 18 and 19.

“FoxPrints Live” features a cast of students and faculty including Ashley Barnett, Amanda Eaves, Bryan Evans, Ed Flowers (faculty), Cassie Hendrix, Anthony O’Steen, Natasha Paschall, Papani Saini, and T.J. Tippins.

For more information about “FoxPrints Live” or the Waycross College Drama Club, please contact club advisor Jenny Sweat at (912) 449-7588.

Waycross Bank & Trust supports Waycross College

Waycross Bank & Trust President G.C. Ganas (center) recently made a generous donation to the Waycross College Foundation on behalf of the bank. Taylor Hereford (right), director of development and community services at Waycross College, and Terry Crosby (left) of Crosby Pontiac-Cadillac-GMC Truck Nissan, Inc. accepted the check on behalf of the Foundation. Waycross College appreciates Waycross Bank & Trust’s continued support of the College’s students and the community. For more information on the Waycross College Foundation, or to make a donation, call (912) 449-7510.

College honored with flag from U.S. Capitol

Waycross College was recently honored by receiving a United States flag that previously flew over the United States Capitol Building. John Miller, outgoing president of the College’s Student Government Association (SGA), submitted an online request to Rep. Jack Kingston’s office for the flag so that it could be used in this year’s commencement ceremony May 9. Miller hopes the flag will be used for future commencement ceremonies as well. Shown left to right receiving the flag on behalf of Waycross College are Miller, Stephanie Steuver (outgoing SGA secretary), Stacy Santana (new SGA president), and T.J. Tippins (new SGA vice president).

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Burleson inducted president of GADE organization

Ellen Burleson

A Waycross College faculty member has been tapped to lead a statewide educational organization.

Ellen Burleson, assistant professor of reading, was inducted as president of the Georgia Association of Developmental Education (GADE) during the thirty-second annual University System of Georgia Learning Support Conference held recently on St. Simons Island.

GADE is an affiliate of the National Association for Developmental Education (NADE), an organization whose mission, according to its website, is to “improve the theory and practice of developmental education at all levels of the educational spectrum, the professional capabilities of developmental educators, and the design of programs to prepare developmental educators.”

Burleson, who has been a member of GADE for ten years, said she is honored to be able to serve in this leadership position. She was nominated by the executive board of GADE because of her service to the organization. Before being inducted president, Burleson served as president-elect and had been the vice president for membership.

Burleson is looking forward to helping increase the organization’s membership statewide. She is also thrilled about the technological advancements being made within the organization that will help foster discussion about various topics throughout the year.

“I am excited about the list serves for reading, English, and mathematics being activated for GADE members,” she said. “By having these list serves in place, colleagues can discuss any issues they may have during the year and not have to wait until the (USG Learning Support) conference to find answers.”

Among her responsibilities as president, Burleson will serve as the main liaison between GADE and the national organization. She will report to NADE about state activities and any future plans being developed. She will also assist in planning – and be a presenter – at the 2009 NADE conference to be held in Greensboro, N.C., Feb. 25-29.

Dr. Mark van den Hende, vice president for academic affairs at the College, is pleased for Burleson and credits her experience both in and out of the classroom for enabling her to accept such an important leadership position.

“Waycross College is very proud to be associated with (Ellen) Burleson,” he said. “(She) has tremendous experience at the campus and state levels in the teaching and learning field. This honor is the result of such experience stemming from years of classroom teaching and collaboration with education colleagues from around the state.”

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week April 20 - 26

Waycross College, in collaboration with Darton College of Albany, would like to celebrate the work of all medical laboratory professionals during National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week April 20 – 26.

In the course of an illness, accident, or surgical procedure, these medical professionals, often with little or no recognition, are a key part in the equation of helping to make a final diagnosis. They have the necessary skills to unlock important medical information pivotal to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases.

Every day, nurses, physicians, and other medical personnel depend on medical laboratory professionals to help provide a complete picture of a patient’s health. Using modern biomedical equipment and complicated analysis, they can detect the presence of cancer, identify infectious viruses and bacteria, and measure glucose, cholesterol, or drug levels in blood.

Only two new medical laboratory professionals enter the field for every seven facing retirement. This shortage is a serious problem, and the stakes are high. According to U.S. Department of Labor projections, approximately 13,800 medical laboratory professionals will be needed every year through 2012 to fill vacant positions. Fewer than 5,000 are graduating from educational programs each year.

Through a collaborative venture, Darton College and Waycross College provide an online educational program leading to an associate of science degree in medical laboratory technology (MLT). Labs are taught on the Waycross College campus by Vicky Davis-Sellers, the MLT educational coordinator and distance learning advisor.

The clinical externship can be completed in this area through hospitals and clinics affiliated with Darton College. Those facilities include Satilla Regional Medical Center, Appling General Health Care, Southeast Georgia Health System, and Irwin County Hospital.

If you would like for your facility to be affiliated with this exciting program, or if you are interested in this rewarding field of healthcare, please contact Ms. Davis-Sellers for more information at 912-449-7586 or email her at vsellers@waycross.edu.

College to show film in observance of Holocaust Remembrance

In observance of Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Remembrance, Waycross College will be showing the film ‘Genocide in the First Half of the 20th Century’ Thursday, April 17 in the College’s auditorium.

The hour-long film will begin at 7 p.m. and the public is invited.

For more information, contact Sandy Keeler, instructor of history, at 449-7570.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

WC announces 2008 commencement speakers

Justice Carol W. Hunstein (left) and Taylor Hereford (right)

The thirty-second Waycross College commencement ceremony will be held on Friday, May 9, 2008 at 7 p.m. in the Waycross College Gymnasium.

This year’s speaker will be Carol W. Hunstein, Presiding Justice of the Supreme Court of Georgia. Justice Hunstein was appointed to the Supreme Court in November 1992 by Governor Zell Miller. She is the second woman in history to serve as a permanent member of the Court. In 1984 Justice Hunstein won election to the Superior Court of DeKalb County. Prior to serving on the bench, Justice Hunstein was in private practice. She has been a member of the Georgia Bar since 1976.

Justice Hunstein received her juris doctor in 1976 from Stetson University College of Law. She received her bachelor of science degree from Florida Atlantic University in 1972 and an associate of arts degree from Miami-Dade Junior College in 1970.

She currently chairs the Supreme Court Commission on Access & Fairness in the courts, the Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee, and the Supreme Court Commission on Interpreters. She is a member of the Atlanta Bar Association’s Public Perceptions Committee, the Bleckley Inn of Court, and has served as Supreme Court liaison to the Chief Justice’s Commission on Professionalism since 1992.

Justice Hunstein also serves as an adjunct professor at Emory University School of Law. She has three children - John F. Abate, Krista Hunstein and Gabrielle Hunstein. She also has one grandson, Johnny Abate.

Mr. Taylor Hereford will induct this year’s graduating class into the Waycross College Alumni Association. Mr. Hereford is the director of development and community services for the College. He graduated from Waycross College in 1996 with an associate of arts degree in history and is married to the former Deborah Ray of Waycross. The couple has two children – Kent, two, and Lucy, one.

Guests of the graduating class are encouraged to arrive early due to limited seating and parking. Members of the graduating class may request a parking permit from the College’s business office for a guest needing special parking arrangements. A security staff member will be near the Physical Education parking area to provide directions for special parking and the drop off area for elderly or physically challenged individuals.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

WC installs new telephone system

Waycross College has installed a new telephone system to provide better service to the campus and to the College’s service area.

The new Avaya system, designed by Black Box Network Services, was officially launched campus wide April 1. Waycross College joins four other schools within the University System of Georgia – Armstrong Atlantic State University, Coastal Georgia Community College, East Georgia College, and South Georgia College – which are currently using the new system.

Corry Johnson, director of computer services at Waycross College, is excited about the advantages the new system brings not only to the campus but within the five-school collaboration.

“(With this system) we now have voicemail and every employee has their own direct line,” said Johnson. “We are (also) able to do conference calls with on campus and off campus users and broadcast emergency messages to all of our classrooms. (In addition) we are now able to call the other collaborative schools locally without incurring toll charges.”

The change has required the assignment of new phone numbers to all campus departments and offices. Each new number includes a ‘449’ prefix instead of the previous ‘285’ or ‘287’ prefixes.

Callers still utilizing the old phone numbers will be directed to the new numbers by way of a generic phone message.

A departmental listing of the new phone numbers includes:
• General Information: 449-7600
• Academic Support/PREP: 449-7550
• Accounts Payable: 449-7523
• Admissions: 449-7600
• Bookstore: 449-7545
• Cashier: 449-7526
• Computer Services: 449-7540
• Continuing Education: 449-7508
• Development and Community Services: 449-7510
• Division of Arts: 449-7580
• Division of Sciences: 449-7581
• Financial Aid: 449-7560
• Library: 449-7515
• Physical Plant: 449-7530
• President’s Office: 449-7500
• Purchasing: 449-7524
• Records: 449-7600
• Swamp Fox Café: 449-7548
• Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs: 449-7505
• Vice President for Business Affairs: 449-7520
• Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services: 449-7600
• Waycross College Foundation: 449-7510

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Waycross College students experience Washington, D.C.

Waycross College students pause for a quick picture in front of the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. during their recent Spring Break trip. Pictured from left to right are Leashea Doran, Cristy Relyea, Stephanie Steuver, John Miller, and Jarrell Roberts.

There are those times in a college student’s life where having the opportunity to relive history in person is better than just learning about it through a textbook.

Five Waycross College students – along with one faculty member – took advantage of that opportunity when they traveled to Washington, D.C. during the College’s recent spring break.

“Washington, D.C. is unique, especially if someone hasn’t been there before,” said Howard Potts, assistant professor of political science and history at the College and coordinator of the trip. “For more than half of the students who went, this was their first trip to Washington. To me, as a faculty member, travel is the best educator for students.”

During their time in the nation’s capital, the group toured many famous and recognizable sites including the Capitol Building, Washington Monument, White House, Smithsonian Institution, and the Holocaust Museum.

For Stephanie Steuver, a sophomore from Blackshear majoring in business, Arlington National Cemetery and the tour of the White House were the most memorable.

“There is so much history at Arlington,” said Steuver. “We visited Robert E. Lee’s plantation, the tomb of the unknown soldier, and so many other memorials.

“The White House tour was self guided,” she continued. “It was interesting to learn about the significance of each room. For example, the red room is where the first lady hosts all of her guests. The east ballroom was where the body of Abraham Lincoln had lain in state. It was all amazing to see.”

Steuver also said at the end of the White House tour, the group was able to exit through the front doors of the mansion – something each United States president has done.

Arlington National Cemetery was also a favorite of John Miller, a sophomore from Waycross majoring in teacher education. But to Miller, the tour of the Library of Congress was his highlight of the trip.

“I was most surprised about the Library of Congress,” said Miller. “When we entered the Jefferson Building, I was awestruck at what I saw. One would think that this was a room belonging to royalty, but it wasn’t. It’s a library full of books open to everyone. It was all amazing.”

Potts said one of the greatest benefits students get out of educational trips – such as the one to Washington – are the little pieces of trivia that further enhance the overall experience. He specifically mentioned the group’s tour of Statuary Hall, a domed area inside the Capitol where the House of Representatives met from 1807-1857.

It was in Statuary Hall that John Quincy Adams, then a member of the House of Representatives, was believed by many at the time to have been sleeping at his desk. According to Potts, Adams’ ‘sleeping’ could very well have covered up his real motivation.

“There is an architectural defect in Statuary Hall where a whisper from one side of the room could travel to the other side and be heard at Adams’ desk,” said Potts. “No other place in the room was like this. Our guide told us that Adams would pretend to sleep at his desk all the while listening in on conversations of the opposition party from across the room. To this day, Statuary Hall is known as the ‘whisper room’.”

During the group’s return to Waycross and to the everyday demands of finishing classes for spring semester, Potts said he found the students discussing what they saw in Washington and relating those experiences to what they have found in their textbooks.

“I believe having the chance to visit Washington in person changes people,” Potts said. “It has been great to see how the students are discussing what they’ve learned in the classroom and also what they’ve learned from their visit.”

For Miller, who is finishing his term as president of the College’s Student Government Association (SGA), the Washington trip really illustrated what he believes to be the role SGA should play at Waycross College.

“While we were there, we were able to learn what it means to be of service to others,” he said. “Hopefully this service idea will continue to be lived out through the future leaders of the College’s SGA when they become involved in student government.”

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Waycross College hosts inaugural Bank Fair event

Representatives from Atlantic Coast Bank (left) share information about their organization with Waycross College students while a Waycross College student (right) signs up to win a free gift from United Community Bank during the inaugural Bank Fair March 25.

Representatives from nine banks in the Waycross and Blackshear area gathered on the Waycross College campus March 25 for the first ever Waycross College Bank Fair.

The event was sponsored by the College’s Office of Development and Community Services and was open to faculty, staff, and students.

“With this event being the first of its kind on our campus, I was excited about the response from the banks as well as from the Waycross College community,” said Taylor Hereford, director of development and community services. “There were a lot of people who participated on both sides and I am thankful that the event went so well.”

According to Hereford, hosting an event like the Bank Fair serves a dual purpose.

“First, it gives the banks an opportunity to let our faculty, staff, and students know about the many exciting services they provide. It also gives the banks a chance to visit our campus and for us to get to know them better,” he said.

Hereford said his office is looking forward to hosting the event again next year.

Those banks participating in the event included Atlantic Coast Bank, Bank of America, BB&T, SunTrust Bank, The Heritage Bank, The Patterson Bank, United Community Bank, United First Federal Credit Union, and Waycross Bank & Trust.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Gail Rhodes honored for service by Waycross Rotary Club

Gail Rhodes, personnel assistant and secretary to the vice president for business affairs at Waycross College, accepts the Waycross Rotary Club’s ‘Service Above Self Award’ during the club’s weekly meeting March 25. Standing with Rhodes (center) are Ed Avra, scholarship committee director for the Waycross club (left), and Bill Deason, vice president for business affairs at Waycross College (right).

A long-time employee of Waycross College has been recognized by a local civic organization for putting others first.

Gail Rhodes, personnel assistant and secretary to the vice president for business affairs, was one of the recipients of the Waycross Rotary Club’s ‘Service Above Self Award’ at the club’s weekly meeting March 25.

"I consider it an honor to receive this award and would like to thank the Rotary Club for honoring me,” said Rhodes. “I enjoy my work at Waycross College where I have the opportunity to serve (the) college staff and the community."

Bill Deason, vice president for business affairs, nominated Rhodes for the award and was proud of her selection by the club.

“I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award (than Gail Rhodes),” said Deason. “(She deserves) the recognition for her contributions to Waycross College, her church, her family, and community. I want to thank the members of the Waycross Rotary Club for making this possible.”

In nominating Rhodes for the honor, Deason said she has a natural ability to put others first. He specifically mentioned the fact that Rhodes “always makes sure that at least a meal and a visit (are) provided” to a college employee who is ill or has lost a loved one.

Deason also said Rhodes’ selfless acts have not only benefited others but have also had a positive effect on her work responsibilities.

“When there are due dates to be met and normal hours don’t permit completion, Gail does not mind working late if necessary to make sure all work is completed ahead of time,” he said.

A graduate of the secretarial science program at Waycross-Ware Tech (present day Okefenokee Technical College), Rhodes began her work at Waycross College in 1981 as the secretary of the Arts and Sciences division. In 1985 she became the cashier and purchasing assistant in the College’s business office – a position she held for eight years. She was promoted to her current position in 1993 and has just completed her 28th year with the College.

She is married to Robert J. (Dusty) Rhodes, a retired special education teacher formerly with the Ware County Board of Education. The couple has one son, Alex, who is stationed in Jacksonville, Fla. with the United States Coast Guard.

An active member of Jamestown Baptist Church, Rhodes enjoys working with the children’s ministry. She also enjoys cooking, traveling, shopping, and spending lots of time with her family, especially her two grandchildren, Koby and Arabella.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Lacefield and Giblin present at VSU Mathematics Technology Conference

Roberta Lacefield (left) and Melissa Giblin (right)

Driven by a passion to help students make a ‘real world’ connection to mathematics, two Waycross College faculty members recently made a ‘real world’ presentation to their peers at Valdosta State University (VSU).

Roberta Lacefield, associate professor of mathematics, and Melissa Giblin, instructor of mathematics, presented ‘Incorporating Hands-On Activities with Technology’ at the 13th annual VSU Mathematics Technology Conference.

“It was a privilege to share with other faculty at this conference about what we’re doing in our classes at Waycross College,” said Lacefield.

Faced with the idea of falling into a ‘lecture-based teaching’ routine in their Mathematical Modeling classes, Lacefield and Giblin developed a ‘Math Activity Day’ for their students during fall semester. By using technology like rulers, calculators, and motion detectors, students participated in hands-on activities and saw how data is generated as opposed to hearing about it in a lecture or reading it in a textbook.

At the conference, Lacefield and Giblin helped the audience perform the same activities so those in attendance could see how simple these activities could be done in the everyday classroom.

“Our presentation was well received,” said Giblin. “We were able to replicate what we’re doing with our students so that others could see how technology could easily be included in the classroom.”

This was Giblin’s first presentation as a full-time faculty member. Although she admits she was somewhat anxious, she is glad her first experience presenting went well.

“It’s different talking to your peers at a conference as opposed to students in the classroom,” she said. “I set everything up, we both helped the audience through the (activities), and Roberta tied everything together nicely at the end. It was a great first experience.”

To learn more about Lacefield’s and Giblin’s presentation, you may email rslace@waycross.edu or mgiblin@waycross.edu.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Head Start students enjoy Easter egg hunt at Waycross College

Four year-old Kyren Fowler (left) shares a grin of victory as she grabs one of 180 hidden Easter eggs while Trayvis Wallace and Alysa Bryan (right) reach for a hidden Easter egg during the Easter egg hunt sponsored by the Waycross College Student Government Association. All three children are students in Ms. Ora Cooper's four year-old class at the Waycross/Ware County Head Start Center. At the conclusion of the egg hunt, Ms. Cooper’s students (center) sing one of the many songs they have learned in school for parents and Waycross College staff members.

Four year-old Kyren Fowler spotted the green Easter egg from five feet away hidden snug behind a tall southern pine tree. As she outran her classmates to grab the coveted prize, she managed to peek around the tree to give a grin of victory to the delight of an audience of teachers and Waycross College staff members watching nearby.

No matter what the age, there’s something special for everyone at an old fashioned Easter egg hunt.

Such was the case March 19 when the Student Government Association (SGA) of Waycross College sponsored an egg hunt on the college’s campus for Ms. Ora Cooper’s four year-old class from the Waycross/Ware County Head Start Center.

“We have been very excited about this Easter egg hunt. The kids have been looking forward to it for some time,” said Ms. Cooper while the children sat underneath one of the College’s gazebos reviewing each other’s loot. “They have talked about it for the last two weeks. They are very happy and seem to have enjoyed themselves today.”

One hundred and eighty plastic eggs were hidden by the SGA members in the gazebo area behind the James M. Dye Student Services Building. After a short review of the rules and instructions, all fifteen children quickly spread over the entire coverage area hoping to fill their baskets with prize-filled eggs.

Afterwards, the SGA members had a chance to reflect on the event and what kind of impact it may have had on each child.

“I think the hunt went real well,” said John Miller, SGA president. “The kids were well behaved and we saw a lot of smiling faces. It’s exciting for us to have the chance to host something like this and to give back to the community.”

Benjamin Sellers, SGA vice-president, was equally pleased and noted a specific instance where one child assisted another in grabbing an egg that seemed too far out of reach.

“I really enjoyed the kids interacting with each other,” said Sellers. “A little girl found an egg that was too high for her. Another boy came along, grabbed the egg, and put it in her basket. That was great to see.”

SGA secretary Stephanie Steuver was grateful she had a chance to potentially make an impact in a child’s life.

“It was good for us to give something like this to the children,” said Steuver. “You never know whether this is the only time someone would have this type of opportunity. So I’m glad I was able to help and make a difference.”

Michelle Waldron, SGA representative, echoed the statements made by the SGA officers.

“The kids had lots of fun. They were all running around and acted like they enjoyed it. I think it turned out real well,” said Waldron.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Financial aid priority date approaching for WC students

The priority date to apply for financial aid for the 2008-2009 academic year is approaching, according to Debbie Howard, director of financial aid at Waycross College.

Students who wish to apply for federal aid – including the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work Study, Academic Competitiveness Grants, and any other federal student loans – must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by June 1.

A FAFSA is also required for any students wishing to apply for a scholarship through the Waycross College Foundation.

In addition to federal aid and Foundation scholarships, Waycross College offers the following scholarships, grants, and loans: ACCEL grant, Governor’s scholarship, HOPE grant, HOPE scholarship, Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership Grant Program (LEAP), Student Assistant Program, VA benefits, and Vocational Rehab Assistance.

To better assist students with applying for financial aid, Josh Dasher of the Georgia Student Finance Commission will be on campus Tuesday, April 29 from 10 am. – 3 p.m. to talk with students about federal aid, state aid, and HOPE. Dasher, along with the Waycross College financial aid staff, will also be able to assist students with their financial aid applications. The event will take place in the commons area of the college’s administrative building.

Students who participate in the April 29 event will be able to register for a $250 scholarship to be given away at the end of the day.

For more information on all scholarships, grants, and loans offered through Waycross College, and about the visit by Dasher, contact the college’s Office of Financial Aid at (912) 449-7560 or email finaid@waycross.edu.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Waycross College closed for Good Friday

The Waycross College campus will be closed Friday, March 21 in observance of Good Friday. The college will reopen Monday, March 24.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Waycross College announces ‘Library Amnesty Week’

The Waycross College Library has designated April 13-18, 2008 as ‘Library Amnesty Week’, according to Mrs. Lynn Kelly, director of library services.

Anyone with overdue Waycross College books will be able to return them and any other library items during this week only and be relieved of all outstanding library charges. Mrs. Kelly said those with overdue items are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.

Please contact Tricia Hope, circulation supervisor for the Waycross College Library, at (912) 285-6136 for questions about ‘Library Amnesty Week’ or about a particular library account.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Waycross College to implement new advising system for students

Gerald Moody, faculty/systems engineer at Coastal Georgia Community College in Brunswick, demonstrates a new electronic advising system to Waycross College faculty and staff March 6. The new system, which draws information from the statewide BANNER student data system, is scheduled to be implemented at Waycross College this spring.

The process of advising Waycross College students is about to become a lot simpler and smoother.

Gerald Moody, faculty/systems engineer at Coastal Georgia Community College (CGCC) in Brunswick, demonstrated a new electronic advising system he created to the faculty and staff of Waycross College March 6. Moody’s demonstration is part of an expanding alliance between Waycross College and CGCC.

The new system, which draws information from the statewide BANNER student data system, is scheduled to be implemented on the Waycross College campus this spring. It will help faculty and staff better plan and organize a student’s program of study from initial enrollment through graduation.

“This system is a giant leap (forward) for Waycross College,” said Dr. Neil Aspinwall, vice president for enrollment and student services. “It eliminates the need for the (traditional) advising folder and puts the information needed to properly advise on one screen.”

Dr. Mark Van den Hende, vice president and dean of academic affairs, is looking forward to having the program implemented at the college.

“Prior to this system being in place, students could not self-advise or ‘shop’ for classes and career path information on their own because they had limited access to information,” said Dr. Van den Hende. “Now, student and college academic information, coursework, and scheduling information (will be) readily available. As a result, faculty can concentrate on students’ in-need while routine advising can be done by students themselves.

“This is a dramatic improvement as it reduces the number of face-to-face advising appointments,” he said. “Faculty can spend more time advising within their areas of expertise.”

According to Dr. Aspinwall, the new system will reduce errors in advising and will help students stay on track in their respective degree programs. This system will also accommodate those students who may wish to change their major.

“Since this system provides much more information on a single screen, it alleviates many of the common errors in the registration process,” said Dr. Aspinwall. “(This will) allow (our) students more freedom to advise and register themselves and take more responsibility for their educational planning.”

Dr. Aspinwall said the reaction of the College’s faculty and staff to this new system has been very positive. He has received many comments about how this system will make faculty and staff jobs of advising and registering students much easier and more effective.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Waycross Firebirds tour Waycross College campus

Members of the Waycross Firebirds football team

As head coach of south Georgia’s newest semi-pro football team, James Cox wants his players to not only be successful on the field but also in life.

This philosophy was evident as he brought approximately 40 members of the Waycross Firebirds to the Waycross College campus March 10 for a tour of the facilities.

“There are guys on our team who have reached a dead end in their jobs and athletic opportunities. I want to get them back into education and football,” said Cox. “I want to thank Waycross College for providing an outstanding and professional campus tour for our guys.”

The players and coaches were welcomed to campus by Rob Wingfield, assistant director of admissions, who gave a brief overview of the programs the College offers as well as the admissions process. Following the presentation and a question and answer session, the team was given a tour of each building on campus.

The team currently practices on the Waycross College athletic fields as players and coaches continue to raise the necessary funds to officially begin league play next year. In the meantime, the coaching staff is working out agreements with area semi-pro teams to schedule exhibition games.

“We are hoping to begin exhibition play as early as April,” Cox said. “All of our exhibition games will be away as we continue to determine the best location in Waycross for our home games.”

While in the midst of all the preparation required to field a brand new athletic team, Cox is thankful for the relationship, both athletically and educationally, that has been established with Waycross College.

“I appreciate everything (Waycross College) is doing to help our team,” he said.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

SGA sponsors ‘Frisbee Golf’ on WC campus

Holly Smith ‘tees off’ on the first hole of the ‘Frisbee Golf’ course while SGA president John Miller looks on. The ‘Frisbee Golf’ event was held March 6 on the Waycross College campus.

Joel Deal stands in the woods behind the Administrative and Educational Buildings on the Waycross College campus puzzled about the location of the next hole.

“Can you see it?” he asks.

Pretty soon, he finds it. Armed with nothing but a regular frisbee in his hand, he ‘tees off’ hoping his shot won’t hit too many trees, won’t stray too far off course, and will eventually land somewhere close to the hole.

Welcome to the world of ‘Frisbee Golf’, a Waycross College Student Government Association (SGA) event held March 6 on campus.

Six ‘golfers’ navigated their way through the fun nine hole course which began at the big gazebo behind the James M. Dye Student Services Building and ended in the area around the gymnasium, tennis courts, and nature trail. The object of the game was to see how many ‘throws’ or ‘shots’ it would take to progress from pre-determined ‘tees’ to their corresponding ‘holes’. As in regular golf, the person with the lowest score is declared the winner.

Holly Smith captured first place by finishing in 27 shots. Regina Mahoney finished in 30 shots and came in second. Leashea Doran came in third with 31 shots, while Deal and Tiffany House tied for fourth with 32 shots. John Miller finished in sixth place with 33 shots.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

“Once Upon A…” is a hit with the audience

Students in the CLEPPA program posed on stage for a group picture before they presented ‘Once Upon A…’ March 7 in the Waycross College Auditorium. L-R: JJ as “Lord Jerrod”, Jacob as “Young William”, Carrie as “The Old Lady”, Alexandra as “Roselle the Dreamer”, Allie as an injured traveler, Dee Dee as a townswoman, and Emily as a townswoman. The play was written and directed by Sheryl and Sheila Kitchen.

Students in the Creative Learning Enrichment Program through the Performing Arts (CLEPPA) at Waycross College presented ‘Once Upon A…’ March 7 in the Waycross College Auditorium.

The play, written and directed by Sheryl and Sheila Kitchen, told the story of the lords and ladies of fairy tale land and their need for Young William to write two new fairy tales to please the King.

“The actors received a lot of laughter and loud applause during the course of the show,” said a CLEPPA spokesman. “From the audience reaction, (the) students could tell their hard work had paid off because the audience really enjoyed the play.”

‘Once Upon A…’ is scheduled to be broadcast on Waycross Cable channel 42 March 21-22 at both 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.

CLEPPA is a new drama program that works with 3rd-7th grade students. The program is part of the Office of Continuing Education at Waycross College.

CLEPPA’s second eight-week session began March 10. For more information on how to register, please contact the CLEPPA instructors at (912) 337-9741 or email cleppas@hotmail.com.

SGA blood drive produces 15 pints for Red Cross

Despite the severe weather that impacted the Waycross area Feb. 26, 15 pints of blood were donated as part of an American Red Cross blood drive on the Waycross College campus. The drive was sponsored by the college’s Student Government Association (SGA). Students, faculty, and staff – including Vicki Sellers (left), clinical coordinator, and Angela Speight (right), financial aid secretary – participated in giving the gift of life. Each donor received a free water bottle as a thank you gift and was entered into a drawing for “Flowers for a Year”. Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Free CLEPPA Play at Waycross College

The public is invited to attend a fairy tale entitled, ‘Once Upon A…’. The play will take place in the Waycross College Auditorium Friday, March 7, at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free.

The lords and ladies of fairy tale land are counting on Young William to write two new fairy tales to please the King. Will Young William be able to overcome his writer’s block in time?

‘Once Upon A…’ is a production of the Creative Learning Enrichment through the Performing Arts (CLEPPA) program at Waycross College through its Office of Continuing Education. CLEPPA is a new drama program that works with 3rd-7th grade students.

CLEPPA’s second eight-week session starts March 10, 2008. For more information on how to register, please contact a CLEPPA instructor at (912) 337-9741 or email cleppas@hotmail.com. Orientation for second session will be Saturday, March 8 at 12 noon in the Waycross College Auditorium.

Waycross College to offer knitting class this spring

Waycross College will offer a six-week beginning knitting class on Tuesdays beginning April 1. The class will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on the Waycross College campus.

The class instructor is Mrs. Gloria Coss.

Needles and yarn will be required of all students beginning the second week of class.

For more information about this class, or to see a list of Waycross College Continuing Education classes, log on to www.waycross.edu and click on ‘Continuing Education’ in the ‘Quick Links’ section. You may also e-mail the college at dcs@waycross.edu or call (912) 285-6130.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Waycross College professor contributes to textbook support manual

Prof. Roberta Lacefield

A Waycross College faculty member has made a contribution to her field which is assisting other college professors around the country in teaching the subject of mathematics.

Roberta Lacefield, associate professor of learning support mathematics at the College, was one of four contributors to the first edition of the Adjunct Support Manual that is used in conjunction with the fourth edition of the Integrated Arithmetic and Basic Algebra textbook. The textbook is published by Pearson Addison-Wesley.

“I can’t describe the feeling of seeing my name in this manual and the textbook. It might sound cliché to say but seeing my name in print is an indescribable experience,” said Lacefield. “Not only is my name listed, but the College’s name is listed. I think it is wonderful for our students to see that we are a part of this.”

Lacefield’s involvement with the support manual developed as a result of an informal email conversation with one of the textbook’s original authors, Bill E. Jordan.

“I was able to review the preliminary edition of the textbook about ten years ago,” said Lacefield. “I compiled a list of errors students and I found and sent them to the publisher. The publisher must have sent my list to Bill Jordan because soon after he and I began an informal email discussion. The more formal discussion that followed resulted in my chance to have a part in the development of this manual and future revisions of the textbook.”

Lacefield was quick to point out she was not the only one from the College to have a part in the process. According to Lacefield, a fellow faculty member also sent her revisions for the preliminary textbook.

“(Gillian) Paul contributed suggestions for the portion of the textbook dealing with percentages,” said Lacefield. “Even though her name is not mentioned, she also had a part in this process.”

Lacefield teaches learning support math courses at the College. She uses the textbook in her classroom and utilizes the resources in the manual to help her reinforce the lessons she teaches.

She and the other contributors are finishing revisions for the second edition of the manual which is scheduled to be published this fall.

Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Dr. Neil Aspinwall speaks to Exchange Club of Blackshear

Dr. Neil Aspinwall, vice president for enrollment and student services at Waycross College, spoke to the Exchange Club of Blackshear Feb. 21 at the Oak Plaza Restaurant. During his presentation, Dr. Aspinwall highlighted the many associate degree programs the College offers as well as the four-year programs offered on the College’s campus in cooperation with fellow institutions within the University System of Georgia. In addition to academic information, Dr. Aspinwall gave a broad overview of the college’s operations, including being a member of the University System. He also discussed some long-range planning ideas currently being considered by the College. Shown L-R after Dr. Aspinwall’s presentation are Dennis Fulford, club president, Mary Lott Walker, and Dr. Aspinwall. Waycross College has been a proud member of the University System of Georgia since its founding date in 1976.

Sgt. Crosby speaks to WAYC 1101 class at Waycross College

Sgt. Tracy Crosby of the Waycross Police Department spoke to students in the ‘WAYC 1101 – Steps to Student Success’ class at Waycross College Feb. 20.

Sgt. Crosby spoke on a number of topics including personal safety and security, self defense tactics, Miranda rights, arrest procedures, DUI and traffic laws, city ordinances, and some of the new laws governing the use of deadly force when faced with a dangerous situation. He also included some real-life experiences as illustrations for each of the topics covered.