Fall 2009 - Prince George`s Community College

Summer/Fall 2009
Meeting Critical Needs
During Challenging Times
Inside
Cover Story, p. 7
Students perform Broadway bound Production of
For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf, p. 11
College Welcomes New Leaders, p. 11
Progressions
Prince George’s Community College
One
Brick at a
Time
Summer/Fall 2009
Progressions is produced twice a year for the alumni and
friends of Prince George’s Community College by the Office
of Institutional Advancement.
Staff
Brenda Mitchell
Executive Director of Institutional
Advancement and Prince George’s
Community College Foundation, Inc.
Brian Holland
Director of Grants and Resource Development
Gita Brown
Administrative Clerk for Grants and Resource Development
Diane Butler
Coordinator of Grants and Resource Development
Leslie Carr
Coordinator of Alumni Relations and Special Programs
Shirley Courtney
Program Assistant for Grants and Resource Development
Moneka Cunningham
Coordinator of Fundraising and Special Events
Sara Gilbert
Program Assistant
Frances Hooks
Administrative Clerk
Brenda Hunter
Accounting Specialist
Pamela Wells
Coordinator of Corporate and Foundation Relations
Special thanks to the
Office of Marketing and Creative Services
Deidra W. Hill, Director
Earlene Dowell, Coordinator of Public Relations
Morgan Gilpatrick, Coordinator of Creative Services
Clark Kirkman, Graphic Designer
Contact
Office of Institutional Advancement
Prince George’s Community College
301 Largo Road, Accokeek Hall, Room 312
Largo, Maryland 20774
Telephone: 301-322-0858
Fax: 301-341-3066
Web: www.pgcc.edu/alumni
E-mail: [email protected] or
[email protected]
2 Summer/Fall 2009
Commemorative Brick Project
A Pathway
to Success
P
ersonalized bricks are an excellent way to
commemorate a family member, friend or
event that will be observed for many years to
come. Proceeds will support scholarships and
programs for students.
Become a part of the legacy of
Prince George’s Community College
For an order form, visit our Website at www.
pgcc.edu/alumni or call 301.322.0858
A Pathway
...to Success
Bricks will be installed in the Marlboro Courtyard on the Largo campus
Office of the President
P
Colors: Black
PMS 123-Yellow
PMS-Red 032
PMS-Reflex Blue
rince George’s Community College values
learning centeredness in an environment
that emphasizes high standards, collaboration
and engagement, and pride in the leadership and
accomplishments of all members of the college
community. As a learning community we value:
Excellence
We strive to ensure quality outcomes through
rigorous learning and training programs designed to
develop the mind as well as build character.
Success
We believe all individuals have the potential to realize
their goals.
Diversity
We promote opportunities to expand our world view
through exposure and greater understanding of all
people, cultures and lifestyles.
Respect
We treat every person with the same humanity and
courtesy that we expect for ourselves.
Professionalism
We believe all individuals will approach
their responsibilities ethically, fairly and with
high standards.
Lifelong Learning
We promote learning and development at all stages
of life, believe learning takes place at all times both
inside and outside of the classroom, and honor and
embrace all forms of learning.
A Message from
the President
Even during challenging times,
it is imperative that we continue
to develop and strengthen ways
to ensure we meet two of the top
institutional priorities at Prince
George’s Community College (PGCC)
—student success and community
service. One of the most successful
ways of helping our students
and the community in times of
need has been through creative
collaboration and partnership,
particularly between the college,
the Prince George’s Community College Foundation, Inc. and the
Alumni Association. Working together, we have raised funds from
private and public sources and expanded our ability to respond to
community needs.
In the past year, the PGCC Foundation has provided $1 million for
scholarships and programs for students. The Strategic Training and
Education Partnership for the Hospitality Industry (STEP-HI), funded
by a $2.4 million dollar U.S. Department of Labor grant, allowed us to
provide tuition assistance for students interested in the high-demand
industries of hospitality services management and culinary arts.
The college also engages with stakeholders to address critical needs of
students and the community we serve. Examples of these collaborations
include a grant from The Peterson Companies that initiated the creation
of the Center for Minority Business Development to promote the growth
of minority-owned businesses and expand local entrepreneurship in
the county; funding from the Citi Foundation to launch Finance 411, a
series of seminars to educate people on responsible financial practices
during tough economic times; and a construction project, funded by
the state and county, that will commence in spring 2010 on a new
100,640 gross-square-foot Center for Health Studies on our Largo
campus to address local and regional health care needs.
As you peruse this issue of Progressions, you will learn more about
our recent occurrences and accomplishments as we strive to meet
the educational and workforce development needs of our students.
Through collaboration, partnership and strategic positioning, we are
successfully surviving the economic downturn and meeting critical
needs during challenging times.
Best Regards,
Charlene M. Dukes
Summer/Fall 2009
3
FOUNDATION
Letter from Foundation President
Dear Friends:
Board of Directors
Orlan M. Johnson, Esq., President
Dwayne O. Leslie, Treasurer
Brenda Mitchell, Executive Director, Secretary
Judy Holland
James W. Cobb, Jr.
Reginald G. Daniel
Samuel H. Dean
Charlene M. Dukes, Ed.D.
Warren Elliott
Louis Henry Gilford
Kenneth E. Glover
Robert S. Grandfield
Jason L. Groves
Carlise Harris
Leslie Johnson, Esq.
Janet C. Lane
Curtis W. Langford
Rene B. LaVigne
David H. Michael
Lt. General (Ret.) Emmett Paige, Jr.
Richard A. Sockol
Timothy Stewart
Joseph Wagorich
Raymond A. Whiteman
The board of directors of the Prince George’s Community
College Foundation completed a strategic planning
process in June 2009. The result is a detailed plan that
will shape the foundation’s priorities through 2012.
The plan includes three strategic goals to: acquire the
resources to improve efforts in support of the college’s
strategic initiatives; create the requisite infrastructure
to accomplish foundation objectives; and enhance the
foundation’s role as the advancement arm of the college.
The strategic plan outlines several specific goals and objectives that include a campaign
to raise funds for equipment for the new Center for Health Studies, innovative programs,
and student services.
To reach these goals, the foundation will work closely with the college’s staff to ensure
that the institution’s strengths and vision are clearly articulated to the public and to
capitalize on the ability of the college to engage with community stakeholders on
collaborative solutions to common challenges that are prevalent in the community and
workforce. The plan also envisions a more engaged, focused board with even greater
fundraising capabilities. All of these endeavors should lead to increased resources and
recognition for the college and its programs.
We are eager to move forward in making our goals a reality and grateful for our alumni
and friends, whose generosity enable Prince George’s Community College to grow
and thrive.
Sincerely,
Orlan Johnson
College Receives Over $3.1 Million to Support
Critical Programs
In its quest to address community needs, Prince George’s
Community College aggressively seeks assistance and funding
from public and private sources. Since the beginning of the
2010 fiscal year in July, 2009, the college has received nearly $4
million to support various initiatives.
Among the most critical needs are student access to quality,
affordable higher education, student retention, education
and job training for nurses and allied healthcare workers,
and continued support for cyber security programs such
as CyberWATCH.
4 Summer/Fall 2009
Funding Source
Amount
Purpose
Citi Foundation
$25,000
Student Access and
Retention
Community Foundation
for the National Capital
Region
$25,000
Carnegie Native Speech
Software
Maryland Higher
Education Commission
$882,685
Nursing Retention
Maryland Higher
Education Commission
$109,245
College Prep Bridge
Academy
Maryland Higher
Education Commission
$59,087
College Prep Outreach
Maryland Higher
Education Commission
$80,828
BRAC - Preparation
Expanding Info
Security Capacity
National Action Council
for Minorities in
Engineering, Inc.
$65,724
Engineering Education
National Science
Foundation
$2,700,199
CyberWATCH Phase II
Philip Graham Foundation
$50,000
Unrestricted
U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services
$20,000
PGCC Health Center
FOUNDATION
Donor Impact on Students and Community
Gifts and grants from individuals, corporations and foundations enable the college to
expand its programs to include practical, hands-on learning opportunities that enhance
quality programs offered by the college.
Hillman Entrepreneurs Program—For a second consecutive year, students in the
Hillman Entrepreneurs Program excelled in the University of Maryland’s business plan
competition. The team, led by Trevor Young, included fellow Hillman Entrepreneurs
ShaVon Holland, Stanley Ohaka and Robert Garrison. Their winning business, Tseai
Energy Unlimited, is working on a system to provide sustainable electricity to rural
communities in the developing world. The plan was selected for a $15,000 Warren Citrin
Social Impact Award and a $10,000 award in the undergraduate division. The Hillman
Entrepreneurs Program, funded by the Hillman Family Foundation, is an innovative
initiative tailored to the needs of transfer students who begin their studies at Prince
George’s Community College and complete their bachelors degree at the University of
Maryland, College Park.
Bernard Collegian Center 2009 Business Plan
Competition winners receive a total of $5,000.
Left to right: Jovan Jackson; Brittney Cummings;
Kevonne Metcalf; Cathy Bernard, collegian
center founder; and Mia Gray-Miller.
Bernard Collegian Center—Three students received a total of $5,000 in seed money to start new businesses as part of the PGCC
Bernard Collegian Center’s business plan competition, created by adjunct faculty member Cathy Bernard. The winners were Kevonne
Metcalf (Abstrak Ink & Art Gallery, $3,000), Jovan Johnson (DMV Music Recording Studio, $1,000) and Mia Gray-Miller (Dainty
Lady’s Events Planning Service, LLC, $1,000).
Finance 411—The public can now obtain timely and practical financial information through the college’s Finance 411 program.
Funded by a grant from the Citi Foundation, the series of free workshops and seminars educates the public on issues of financial
literacy such as home buying, financial aid and asset building.
Growing Field Demands an Expansive Response
The college will break ground on a Center for Health Studies in the spring of 2010
to address an urgent need. A recent personnel survey by the Maryland Hospital
Association (MHA) found that 56 percent of more than 40 categories of healthcare
professions surveyed had vacancy rates of 10 percent or higher. MHA has also
projected a statewide shortage of 10,000 nurses by 2020 if no action is taken.
Once completed, the three-story, 114,064 square foot building will house all of the
college’s health studies programs, as well as a new data center to support technologybased instruction, distance learning and Web-based administrative applications.
The new center will enhance the college’s ability to expand programs to build hiring capacity in the healthcare profession.
Rendering of the planned three-story, 111,064 square
foot Center of Health Studies.
The state of Maryland and Prince George’s County will provide more than $43 million to fund construction of the center. The
PGCC Foundation will soon announce plans to raise an additional $10 million required to furnish and equip the building.
Community Investment
A desire for community investment led to the Prince George’s Community College
Foundation receiving a $10,000 gift from Wawa, Inc. Through this gift, Wawa, Inc.
is supporting one of the top institutional priorities at Prince George’s Community
College—student success. “The college community is delighted to share in this
partnership and looks forward to future collaboration,” said Dr. Charlene M. Dukes,
president of Prince George’s Community College. President Dukes accepted the
check on behalf of the Prince George’s Community College Foundation, during
the grand opening ceremony of Wawa at Steeplechase 95 International Business
Park in Capitol Heights, Maryland. The check was presented by Jim Bluebello, vice
president, Wawa.
PGCC president, Charlene Dukes, received a
$10,000 check from Jim Bluebello, vice president,
Wawa. Samuel H. Dean, Prince George’s County
Council Member offers congratulations.
Summer/Fall 2009
5
Board
FOUNDATION
of Trustees
A Message from the Chair
Dear Friends:
Two themes have always been
central to the mission of Prince
George’s Community College:
education and community. As a
public institution, it is our goal
not only to offer a high quality,
affordable education to our
students, but to improve the lives
of all the county’s residents. We do
this by providing services that extend beyond the classroom to
a large cross-section of the county’s population and by ensuring
that our programs are strategically aligned with the needs of
our community stakeholders.
At the college’s 50th commencement ceremony in May,
we celebrated with a class of 800 whose accomplishments
exemplify our commitment to changing lives. Among them
were students who were awarded more than $300,000 in
scholarships to transfer to leading universities. They include
Jack Kent Cooke Scholar, Promise Olomo, who is now
pursuing a degree in nursing at Johns Hopkins University.
His classmate, Subomi Johnson, received the Southern
Management Scholarship to attend the Kogod School of
Business at American University. They and their fellow
scholarship recipients represent the highest standards of
excellence and achievement. Many of them will be attending
local universities and will return to the community to enter
essential fields such as healthcare, business, education,
technology and more.
Our distinguished alumni award winner, Deputy Chief Anita
Rosser, stressed to our students that their choice to attend
college is a life-changing one, and this is true not only on
a personal level, but for the community as a whole. As our
alumni have demonstrated over the years, the benefits of
higher education can have a transformative effect on society.
As we look to the future of Prince George’s Community
College, we will continue to engage the community we serve
to position ourselves for success for many years to come.
William Dean Frazier
6 Summer/Fall 2009
Joel Lapin, facilitator, conducted an overview of the college’s strategic
planning process that will involve community, business and elected officials.
Strategic Planning Engaging Community
Stakeholders
On August 19, 2009, several community, business and elected
leaders attended an overview and orientation session aimed
at formulating a new strategic vision for the college led by
Mr. Joel Lapin, Professor of Sociology at the Community
College of Baltimore County. Professor Lapin is nationally
renowned as an expert in the field of environmental scanning
and strategic planning. He has published numerous articles
on the subject and has conducted similar workshops for
community colleges across the country.
The college is pleased to have the support and participation
of many constituents whose perspectives will play a vital
role in ensuring that the institution is adequately planning
to meet the educational needs of the community. Attendees
ranged from members of the college’s board of trustees,
foundation board of directors and the county council, to the
superintendant of Prince George’s County Public Schools,
Dr. William Hite, university presidents Dr. Mickey L. Burnim
(Bowie State) and Dr. Sidney Ribeau (Howard), Major
General Ralph Jodice, II, commander, Andrews Air Force
Base and representatives across several business industries.
FOUNDATION
Cover
Story
Meeting Critical Needs During Challenging Times
Prince George’s Community College is uniquely positioned to react quickly
and efficiently to community needs. In difficult economic times, the college is
providing vital education and training opportunities and creating programs
that directly target areas of need in Prince George’s County and the region. This
includes strengthening workforce and business development, as well as offering
the public practical and valuable information on financial issues.
Health Education and Workforce Development
Preparing students for entry into healthcare professions, especially nursing, is
a top priority. The Maryland Hospital Association has predicted that the state
will face a shortage of 10,000 nurses by 2016 unless measures are taken to boost
their numbers. This fiscal year, Prince George’s Community College has received
grants totaling nearly $1 million for its nursing programs, to support increased
enrollment, retention, additional faculty, and to expedite the graduation of
registered nurses. Additionally, the college has received capital funds from the state
of Maryland and Prince George’s County to build a new Center for Health Studies
to facilitate the expansion of all health studies programs with new classroom and
laboratory space. State-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge technologies will
aid in interdisciplinary and hands-on learning.
Carl Brown, executive director of PGCC’s new Center
for Minority Business Development, will focus efforts
on expanding local minority entrepreneurship through
education, training and personalized coaching.
Local Minority Business Development
Minority-owned businesses in the county are the beneficiaries of the collaboration
between the college and The Peterson Companies, one of the largest privatelyowned property development companies in the region. The company’s contribution
of $5 million over five years supports targeted business training and related business support services for minority businesses. Aimed
primarily at building the capacity of businesses pursuing contracts at National Harbor, the initiative will also help them compete
successfully for work on other projects in the county. As part of the agreement, the college has created a Center for Minority Business
Development, headed by executive director Carl Brown. The center’s mission is to accelerate the development of county-based
minority businesses and to expand local minority entrepreneurship through education, training and personalized coaching.
Financial Literacy
The Community Financial Center, launched in February 2009, is a valuable resource for students and residents. The center’s
comprehensive series of workshops and seminars, Finance 411, is designed to increase financial literacy and help participants with
financial decision-making and planning. Topics include asset building, researching financial aid, managing finances, recognizing
mortgage scams and avoiding foreclosure. This is especially significant for residents of Prince George’s County, which has the
highest number of foreclosures in the state of Maryland. The free
program is supported by a $40,000 grant from Citi Foundation and
is open to the public.
This important work goes on despite the fact that Prince George’s
Community College, like other institutions, faces budget shortfalls
and an increased demand for services. Fortunately, assistance in
meeting these challenges may soon be available from the federal
government. In July, President Barack Obama announced his
American Graduation Initiative for community colleges, calling
for 5 million additional community college graduates by 2020.
The historic $12 billion program includes funding to increase
graduation rates, modernize and renovate campuses, promote
college completion, track student progress and success, bolster
innovation and expand the use of technology.
Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown (left), Dr. Charlene Dukes (center)
and Governor Martin O’Malley (right) stand near the future site of the
new Center for Health Studies at Prince George’s Community College.
Prince George’s Community College’s commitment to serving
a diverse and dynamic population remains steadfast under
fluctuating economic conditions. As President Obama noted,
community colleges are “an essential part of our recovery in the
present—and our prosperity in the future.”
Summer/Fall 2009
7
College Life
Alonia C. Sharps, executive assistant to the president, was
the recipient of the 2009 President’s Medal, the highest
honor given for employee achievement at Prince George’s
Community College. The honor, presented at the annual
College Enrichment Day Faculty and Staff Honors
Convocation, recognizes sustained, high-quality
contributions and devoted service in support
of the college’s mission.
Internationally renowned microsculptor, Willard Wigan, paid a
visit to PGCC. A student reporter
and Speech and Communication
majors, who interviewed Wigan
prior to the lecture and exhibition,
greet Wigan near one of the
microscopes that displayed a
piece from the artist’s “Art in the
Eye of a Needle” collection. Left
to right: Yemi Obajimi, PGCC
Owl Newspaper; Erika Scott;
Willard Wigan, artist; Breyana
Kelly; and Anastasia Champ.
The Apartment and Office Builders
Association (AOBA) awarded full
two-year scholarships to seven
deserving students at the 14th annual
AOBA Scholarship Reception. Left
to right: David H. Hillman, CEO,
Southern Management Corporation
and founder of the AOBA Scholarship
Program; Daniel Herron; Dr. Charlene
Dukes, president, PGCC; Michael
Robinson; Helzy Diaz; Richard
Adkins; Tracy Yeung; Christina
Johnson; Danyelle McElrath; and Lesa
Hoover, vice president for Government
Affairs, AOBA.
Upcoming Events
December 19, 2009–January 3, 2010
College Closed—Winter Break
January 25, 2010
Spring 2010 Classes Begin
January 19–February 11, 2010
Interpretations of Time Exhibition
Opening Reception—Friday, January 18
6–8 p.m.
Marlboro Gallery
February 6, 2010
Prince George’s Philharmonic
8 p.m.
Queen Anne Fine Arts Building
Hallam Theatre
January 21, 2010
Finance 411–Assessing Your Financial Picture
6-8 p.m.
Accokeek Hall, Room 221
February 13, 2010
Jook Joint Saturday Night
7 p.m.
LSC Community Rooms A,B & C
Admission Fee Required
8 Summer/Fall 2009
February 15, 2010
Literally Speaking– R. Dwayne Betts
12 noon
Accokeek Hall, Room 221
February 16–March 11, 2010
Third Multicultural Artists’ Exhibition
Reception: February 18, 6–8 p.m.
Marlboro Gallery
February 22, 2010
Finance 411–Budgeting for Financial Success
6-8 p.m.
Accokeek Hall, Room 221
College Life
Hospitality & Tourism
Institute and Hillman
Entrepreneurs students
participated in a threeday golf clinic to expose
them to the rules of
golf and to experience
networking opportunities
the game provides.
Students in the Hospitality Services
Management and Culinary Arts
Program provided a cooking
demonstration showcasing their
skills. Students, faculty and staff
had the opportunity to sample
healthy quick meals during
the exhibition.
Andristine Robinson, PGCC director of Student Services
Operations, instructs students on proper dining and
networking etiquette during “I Can’t Believe You Did
That!” sponsored by the Bernard Collegian Center, Hillman
Entrepreneurs and the PGCC Alumni Association.
The Prince George’s Community College Theatre
Department presented Lorraine Hansberry’s “A
Raisin in the Sun.” Student actors Sha’ahn Williams
and Demetrius Greene delivered convincing
portrayals of the main characters, Ruth and Walter.
Upcoming Events
March 15–April 8, 2010
Myths for the Age of Anxiety: Paul Middleman’s
Paintings and Drawings
Reception: March 17, 6-8 p.m.
Marlboro Gallery
March 22, 2010
Finance 411–Get Your Credit in Focus
6-8 p.m.
Accokeek Hall, Room 221
March 29–April 4, 2010
Spring Break
College Closed
April 14–May 11, 2010
Spring Juried Student Art Exhibition
Reception: 6-8 p.m.
Marlboro Gallery
April 19, 2010
Finance 411–Expanding Your
Opportunities to Save
6-8 p.m.
Accokeek Hall, Room 221
April 24, 2010
Caribbean Festival
1-6 p.m.
The Grounds of Novak Field House
May 3, 2010
PGCC Alumni Scholarship Golf Tournament
10 a.m.
The Country Club at Woodmore
Admission Fee Required
May 27, 2010
PGCC 51st Commencement Exercises
7 p.m.
Showplace Arena
Admission to most events is free for all Prince George’s Community
College students with valid identification unless noted. Programs and
dates are subject to change. Visit pgcc.edu for event updates.
Summer/Fall 2009
9
The College
A New Look for College Library
After a nearly two-year renovation, the Prince George’s Community College
library, housed in Accokeek Hall, officially opened its doors during a ribbon
cutting ceremony Tuesday, September 29, 2–3:30 p.m., in the courtyard of the
entrance to the building on the Largo campus. “The illuminating atmosphere
encourages students to spend more time in the library studying, researching
and reading,” said Dr. Lynda Byrd Logan, dean of learning resources.
The library, which originally opened in 1985, now features a collection of
150,000 items on 300 various subject areas; wireless Internet access and public
computers; completely renovated circulation desk and staff area; numerous
The newly renovated PGCC library offers an
study tables throughout the floor with ample seating; library instruction room
illuminating atmosphere that enhances a learningwith multiple computer workstations that are wheelchair accessible; and new
centered environment.
private media viewing/listening carrels. The second floor includes quiet study
areas; a multi-function room for receptions and exhibits; and conference rooms and administrative offices. The third floor
houses additional offices such as Institutional Advancement, two microcomputer centers, eLearning Services, T.V. studio and
Professional Development.
The grand opening celebration included guided tours of the three-floor facility for guests to observe all of the building’s amenities.
Light refreshments were served in the Thomas S. Gywnn Room, named for a former member of the college’s board of trustees and
lifelong resident of Prince George’s County, whose family established an endowed fund to sustain library collections.
The newly renovated library has been operating since Aug. 31. Hours of service for the fall and spring are Monday–Thursday,
8 a.m.–8 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. The library is closed on Sundays. For more information, please call
301-322-0475.
Willard Wigan, Renowned Micro-sculptor, Visits PGCC
Prince George’s Community College hosted a lecture and display by Willard
Wigan, a renowned micro-sculptor whose work has been described as “the
eighth wonder of the world,” on November 19, 2009, in the Marlboro Gallery.
A native of the United Kingdom, Wigan was in Washington, D.C. promoting
his exhibition at the city’s Parish Gallery titled “Art in the Eye of a Needle.”
A close-up of a Willard Wigan sculpture which is small
enough to fit into an eye of a needle and only viewable
under a microscope.
Not only is Willard touted for his amazing talent but he is also an engaging
speaker. During his visit to the college Wigan shared his inspiring story of
overcoming severe dyslexia and extreme learning difficulties to become
an outstanding international ambassador for art and education. Wigan
just completed a three-year European tour and most recently made a guest
appearance on “The Tonight Show” with Conan O’Brien. His works have been
sought out by Prince Charles of England and his unique artistic gift has been
recognized by the Technology, Entertainment, Design (TED) Institute, where
he appeared as a guest speaker at the 2009 world conference in Oxford, U.K.
Many of Willard’s pieces are small enough to fit into an eye of a needle and
include replicas of Lloyds of London, Charlie Chaplin, the Star Wars cast,
and President Barak Obama and the first family on the historic election night
in Chicago.
Wigan’s work can be viewed at www.willard-wigan.com.
The artist graciously shared his childhood experiences
of coping with severe dyslexia and extreme learning
difficulties with PGCC students, faculty, staff, and guests.
10 Summer/Fall 2009
The college
New Leaders Bring Vision to College
Prince George’s Community College introduced two new
senior team members this fall, Dr. Sandra Dunnington,
vice president for academic affairs, and Dr. Tyjaun Lee, vice
president for student services. Dunnington and Lee have
extensive experience in higher education administration
and teaching.
Dunnington, who has been a nurse educator for most of
her professional career, has taught at several large public
universities. She came to the college in August 2004 as
the dean of health sciences and has served as interim vice
president for academic affairs since 2007.
“I am very excited about the opportunity to lead the
academic affairs area as we embark on new initiatives that
will strengthen our ties to the community and promote the
excellence that characterizes our graduates as they either
transfer to four-year colleges and universities or enter the
workforce,” said Dunnington.
New senior leadership team members Dr. Sandra Dunnington, vice president
for Academic Affairs (left) and Dr. Tyjaun Lee, vice president for Student
Services (right).
Lee assumed the vice president for student services position on August 3, 2009, and has served as associate vice president for
enrollment management and student services at Tidewater Community College in Norfolk, Virginia for four years. “I want
students to know that I am committed to providing them with the resources and services to help them be successful,” said Lee.
In their roles as vice presidents, Dunnington and Lee are responsible for continued commitment to a learning-centered
environment that emphasizes high standards, collaboration and engagement, and pride in the leadership and accomplishments
of all members to the college community.
From PGCC to Broadway
A Broadway-bound pre-production of For Colored Girls Who Have
Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf was presented by theatre
students of Prince George’s Community College during a free public
performance on Saturday, September 26, 2009, at the Queen Anne Fine
Arts Building, Hallam Theatre.
The PGCC cast performed the Broadway-bound choreopoem
“For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When
the Rainbow Is Enuf.” Cast members back row left to right:
Nickoletta Cruso; Tiana Bias, understudy; Keva Colbert; Erika
Scott; Tana Fleming,understudy: middle row left to right:
Sydney Lawson; Ntozake Shange, author; Tiffany Royster;
bottom row left to right: Juanita Artis; Ronya-Lee Lavaune
Anderson, choreographer; and Segrid Archild.
The play’s author, Ntozake Shange, and director, Shirley Jo Finney,
worked with Prince George’s Community College students to fine-tune
the re-adaptation of the play before it hits the Broadway stage. “Students
benefitted from the experience of working with a Broadway director
and playwright during a week-long workshop,” said Tammy O’Donnell,
program director and professor of theatre. “Prince George’s Community
College was truly honored to be a part of this production,” she added.
Shange’s grandmother inspired the title. The voices of women have for
generations not been heard. In this play those voices speak. The stories
revealed the women, their lives, loves, hardships and ultimately their
discovery of strength and love. The ageless journey of girls to womanhood
took on a contemporary twist for today’s young women. More than 30 years
after it was first published, For Colored Girls has proven its staying power.
Termed a choreopoem, the series of poems were choreographed to music, allowing the cast to represent the stories of multiracial
women through song, poetry and dance.
The PGCC Department of Communication and Theatre partnered with the Prince George’s Arts Council, and DreamTeam
Entertainment Group, to make this opportunity possible. “We believe in the value of life-long learning through the arts, particularly
in education,” said Rhonda Dallas, chair of Prince George’s Arts Council.
Summer/Fall 2009
11
Alumni
Dear Alumni and Friends:
I am delighted to serve as president of the Prince
George’s Community College Alumni Association.
When I began my involvement with the alumni board
five years ago, I learned that there are many areas
where alumni voices need to be heard. As president,
my goals are to increase the presence of alumni on
campus, raise awareness of the college through
programs and alumni representation, and dedicate
our resources to the students and the community.
Prince George’s Community
College Alumni Association
Board of Directors
Over the past year I have seen alumni play a more
meaningful role on campus and in the community. Our recent and current activities
include hosting a business etiquette luncheon for students; launching Literally
Speaking, a featured author series; and co-sponsoring a golf clinic, which exposed
students to a business networking environment. We are especially proud of our six
fall 2009 scholarship recipients.
The association is growing and offering new ways for alumni to give back to
Prince George’s Community College. Please consider sharing your experiences
with prospective students, becoming a mentor or providing job shadowing and
internship opportunities. Help us support students with scholarships. There are
many opportunities to become involved.
Joel Dearring, President
Pamela Thomas, Vice President
Vacant, Secretary
Jane Treadwell, Treasurer
Rosa Hayes
Vania McNeary
Arnita Shelton
Jean Mattie, Alumni Liaison
Leslie Carr, Coordinator of Alumni Relations
I welcome your ideas and suggestions and look forward to your active participation.
Joel Dearring
Alumni President
ALUMNI Headliners
Maryland House of Delegates for the 26th
Legislative District of Prince George’s
County since 2007.
Kris Valderrama
Maryland State Delegate Kris Valderrama
is a life-long resident of Prince George’s
County. A proud product of Oxon Hill
Senior High School, Delegate Valderrama
transferred from Prince George’s
Community College to Salisbury State
University where she earned her bachelor
degree. She has been a member of the
Delegate Valderrama currently works
with the American Federation of State,
County and Municipal Employees
(AFSCME) on such issues as child, home
and health care organizing. She is also
anchor and reporter on Valderrama’s
America, a multicultural television
newsmagazine on Comcast’s channel 80
in Maryland.
Bucas Sterling, III
Bucas Sterling, III has been serving as
Senior Pastor of Kettering Baptist Church
since April 2000. His prior service
includes thirteen years at Mt. Calvary
Baptist Church in Lanham MD, where he
served full time as Assistant Pastor.
Pastor Sterling attended Prince George’s
Community College, the University of
North Dakota and Washington Bible
College, holding degrees in Criminal
Justice and Pastoral Theology. He
also served four years with the United
States Air Force. His vision includes
edifying the community and promoting
hands-on missions work.
Shelby Tuck-Horton
Shelby Tuck-Horton, president of
Exquisite Expressions & Events, has
been planning weddings since 1985 and
Washingtonian Magazine has named
her one of the area’s leading wedding
experts. Ms. Tuck-Horton teaches event
planning courses at Prince George’s
Community College.
To submit updates to Alumni Headliners, please e-mail [email protected].
12 Summer/Fall 2009
Alumni
College Inaugurates New Literary Series
On September 24, 2009, the Prince George’s Community College Alumni
Association debuted Literally Speaking, a program that brings writers and poets
to campus to share their work. The program seeks to expand the audience for
contemporary literature, poetry and prose by highlighting writers who have a
relationship with the college or whose work has relevance to the local community.
Writer and educator Ronald A. Williams kicked off the series with a reading
from his first published novel, Four Saints and an Angel. The novel, which tackles
themes of love, friendship and international intrigue, was inspired by the author’s
homeland of Barbados. Dr. Williams served as president of Prince George’s
Community College from 1999 to 2007.
5
Literally Speaking events are free and open to the public.
Top 5 Project
Dr. Ronald A. Williams, former PGCC president, read
excerpts from his first published novel, “Four Saints
and an Angel.”
P
O
T
The Top 5 Project is a new initiative to increase alumni support for the college. The alumni association has identified the
top five most compelling reasons to give to the Prince George’s Community College Foundation. They are:
A gift to the PGCC Foundation is an investment in people and their potential.
Others will benefit from belief in them as they fulfill their educational aspirations.
A gift to the PGCC Foundation promotes student success.
The PGCC Foundation provides $1,000,000 annually for scholarships and programs for students.
 A gift to the PGCC Foundation benefits the greater community.
Programs such as the Bluebird Blues Festival and Finance 411 are funded by donations and are free to
the public.
 A gift to the PGCC Foundation strengthens teaching and learning.
The PGCC Foundation awards up to 20 mini grants annually to faculty and staff to pilot innovative programs.
1 A
gift to the PGCC Foundation enables you to make a BIG difference.
If each of the over 500,000 alumni gave the minimum requested gift of $25, $12 million could be raised for
scholarships and programs!
Gifts to the foundation are tax-deductible. To make a gift or pledge go to www.pgcc.edu/alumni.
Family and Friends Gather at Texas Road House
College alumni, staff, family and friends dined and mingled as the
Texas Roadhouse restaurant in Bowie, Maryland hosted an Alumni
Family & Friends night in June. Ten percent of the evening’s proceeds
went to the Prince George’s Community College Alumni Association
to help fund programs, workshops and student scholarships.
WKYS 93.9 radio personalities Tony Redz (center left) and Sheila
Stewart (center right) added to a fun-filled evening by providing a
live broadcast with giveaways and greeting guests such as the Dowell
family (left to right): Kekoa, Earlene, Justin, Stephanie, and Steve at
the Texas Roadhouse.
The fundraiser also helped to raise public awareness of the college.
Local radio station 93.9 WKYS broadcasted live from the restaurant,
interviewing Prince George’s Community College President Charlene
Dukes. Jennifer Price, director of recruitment and Joel Dearring,
alumni association president, were on hand to talk about recruitment,
admission and alumni activities.
The event, the second of its kind, allowed attendees to have a good time
while contributing to a worthy cause.
Summer/Fall 2009
13
Community Partnerships
County Hosts Homeless Resource Day at PGCC
The Prince George’s County Department of Social Services hosted a Homeless
Resource Day on Saturday, October 3, 2009, with the support of Prince George’s
Community College. The event provided an opportunity for homeless residents,
and those who are in danger of becoming homeless, to meet with various
community-based organizations and county agencies to receive information and
referral services. County Executive Jack B. Johnson co-chaired the event.
The Salvation Army was one of several organizations
that provided information and referral services to
over 400 individuals and families at Prince George’s
County’s Homeless Resource Day.
Homeless families received free flu shots, ID cards from MVA, on-site applications
for food, medical, housing and cash assistance, dental and health screenings,
library cards, and much more. “The hard work and dedication of the many
individuals and offices at the college made an indelible mark on the lives of 400
individuals and families in Prince George’s County,” says Cecelia Knox, director,
PGCC Next Step Training and Education Program. Next Step prepares current
and former Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) customers for career development
and progression through education and training at the college’s main campus.
Team Builders Project Tackles Unemployment
Through funding provided by Tony Knotts, Prince George’s County
Council Member, 8th District, the Team Builders Construction Job
Training Program was implemented to address unemployment within
Prince George’s County. Team Builders targets adults ages 18 and older
who are low-wage earners, unemployed, underemployed, dislocated, or
educationally disadvantaged, and reside within the 8th District.
Councilman Tony Knotts, (D- District 8), Dr. Charlene Dukes,
PGCC president and Nash Gray, PGCC Team Builders project
director observe progress made by participants of the Team
Builders Construction Job Training program.
The program is similar to a full-time job with students taking classes from
9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. five days a week at Prince George’s Community
College. Activities are designed to provide life skill development,
occupational skill development, and job readiness training leading to
entry-level certification and opportunities for employment within the
construction trades industry.
Results for the first group of program participants have exceeded
expectations with 16 of the 19 participants securing jobs immediately.
Project partners include Adams House and the Community
Services Agency.
ESFCU Sponsors Graduation Rehearsal
The Prince George’s Community College Alumni Association and representatives
of the Educational Systems Federal Credit Union (ESFCU) hosted the graduation
rehearsal at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro in May.
The tradition of alumni assisting and providing refreshments at the rehearsal
has continued for more than ten years. As graduates are instructed on what to
expect at commencement, alumni take the opportunity to meet and greet the
students who will soon be their fellow alumni.
The ESFCU’s mission is to help members of the education community achieve
their financial goals and dreams. Bowie branch manager Sonya Kennedy said
she was excited to reach out to the graduating students and support a major
milestone in their lives. The ESFCU has locations in Bowie and Greenbelt in
Prince George’s County.
14 Summer/Fall 2009
Alumni Association board members partner with
Education Systems Federal Credit Union to provide
refreshments and encouragement during the 2009
PGCC graduation rehearsal. Left to right: Pamela
Thomas, vice president, PGCC Alumni Association;
James L. Lyles, Sr., PGCC alumnus; Sonya Kennedy,
Bowie ESFCU branch manager; and Jane Treadwell,
treasurer PGCC Alumni Association.
Prince George’s Community College
Legacy
Circle
Annual Giving Program
An investment in people and their potential
The Legacy Circle Annual Giving Program may support any of the
following institutional priorities:
Student Success­
Expansion of scholarships to include awards to cover costs of tuition,
fees, books and advanced study opportunities
Teaching and Learning
Enable faculty and staff to stay current in the use of tools, techniques
and systems that support the learning-centered environment
Technology
Provide advanced technology for classrooms and laboratories to enable
hands-on learning
Health Studies
Support for medical and computer equipment for classrooms and
laboratories
To make a tax deductible gift to the Legacy Circle Annual Giving
Campaign, go to www.pgcc.edu/alumni or call 301-322-0858.
The Prince George’s Community College Foundation,
Inc. is operated exclusively as a 501c(3) organization
for the charitable purposes of furthering educational
programs, facilities and opportunities at Prince
George’s Community College
Summer/Fall 2009
15
First Class
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 35
Upper Marlboro
Maryland 20774
Office of Development
301 Largo Road, A-312
Largo, MD 20774-2199
www.pgcc.edu
President
Dr. Charlene M. Dukes
Board of Trustees
Mr. William Dean Frazier, Chair
Mr. Felix Yeoman, Vice Chair
Mr. Jamel “Mel” R. Franklin
Mr. Jerry J. Mathis
Ms. Lori F. Morris
Mr. John Steinecke
Mr. Richard Thomas
Mrs. Ja’Lisa H. Dixon, Student Trustee
The Country Club at Woodmore
Mitchellville, Maryland
Reserve the Date
Monday, May 3, 2010
Proceeds benefit the Prince George’s Community College Alumni Association Scholarship Fund*
Special discounted rate for Alumni Association members
*Managed by the PGCC Foundation, Inc., a 501c(3) organization for the charitable purposes of furthering educational programs, facilities and opportunities at Prince
George’s Community College.
10017
For more information, please call 301-322-0858, e-mail [email protected], or go to www.pgcc.edu/alumni