Black American Council Newsletter

Issue
08
Black American Council News
May 2016
MENTOR SPOTLIGHT
Black American Council
Officers 2015-2016
President:
Dr. Phyllis Dukes–Hopson
Program Manager:
Jacques O. Smith, Sr.
Administrative Assistants:
Mary Wade
Chimene Jones
Vice President:
Dr. Lemuel Stewart III
Secretary:
Toni Pickens
Treasurer:
Jeanette Bell
Representatives-At-Large:
Metro: Dr. Clarence Johnson
East: Deborah Simpson
West: Dr. Emhonta Johnson
District: Dr. JaNice Marshall
WEDD/UTC: Maria Brathwaite
Mentoring Program Co-chairpersons:
Beverly Owens
Terry A. Webb
FMF Scholarship Luncheon
Co-Chairpersons:
Dr. Cynthia Martin, Rita McKinley
Membership:
Barbara Winston, Verna Curry,
Diane Gaston, Mynetta Brower
Newsletter:
Tisha Hardy
Terry A. Webb
Scholarship Award:
Ralonda Ellis-Hill
Enrollment Management:
Muriel Robinson
Social:
Brenda Carmichael,
Mikki Hardwick-Lett
Alumni:
John Wilkes
Dr. Emhonta Johnson is a tenur e-track
Biology faculty member at the West campus. He is coleader of the Minority Male Leadership Academy with
Dr. Lemuel Stewart III, and he is the West campus
Black American Council (BAC) representative. His
research background is in molecular/cellular biology
and he prides himself on being an average down to
earth person.
Due to the lack of minority influence during his graduate work, he reaches out
to students of color in various areas of science. Currently, he mentors approximately
10 students that he pushes and impresses the significance of their educational
endeavors. In doing so, he makes himself available virtually 24/7. The students have
responded extremely well by taking advantage of this openness. Dr. Johnson works on
student papers and assists with exam preparation sometimes well into the night.
Additionally, he has opened his office as a quiet place to study throughout the
semester. Many students have studied overnight and even taken naps in between study
sessions, which he finds to be very gratifying. He quizzes students on their material
almost every day of the week. Recently, students have become very motivated because
Dr. Johnson will reward students with refreshments for exam grades above 80% in a
science field. Again, he has witnessed a greater than expected response resulting in
him buying meals, sometimes three times a week. In all he wants students to know,
that he cares about their schooling and general well-being via his actions. However, he
feels that holding students accountable is the best motivational tool!
In addition, Dr. Johnson is busy raising three children with his wife, but finds time to
do other things on campus and in the community, such as writing a NSF STEM grant
to provide minority students with experiential learning opportunities and tuition
assistance upon transferring to a four-year institution. He is a board member of the
ARC of Greater Cleveland and Cleveland Philharmonic Orchestra, and he has adopted
a stretch of I-77 which he cleans twice a semester with the help of students and other
Green Team members. Dr. Johnson also volunteers with the Cleveland Food Bank and
periodically with the Summit County Developmental Disabilities. His commitment to
student and community goes even further as he tutors Shaker School district students
in science, and he is always looking for the next opportunity to provide a positive
influence.
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Welcome to our 8th edition of the Black American Council (BAC) newsletter. As we
come to the close of another semester, I would like to thank all of the volunteers and
mentors who have worked with our students to make this year a success. We have made
many accomplishments this year. Our students have worked hard to pursue their
educational goals, and we had many students achieving a 3.0 or higher GPA. We had
students leaders highlighted across the campuses in various arenas, and we continue to
acquire new mentees. We are proud of the work our Minority Male Leadership Academy
coordinators, Terry Webb, Dr. Lemuel Stewart, Dr. Christopher Hawkins, Dr. Emhonta
Johnson, Jacques Smith, James Gardner Jr. and Warren Glen, have done to engage and
promote our African American male students. They have truly had a productive and
successful year. I also want to thank our Minority Women’s Leadership Initiative
coordinators, Toni Pickens, Andrea Borders, Deborah Simpson, and Jeanette Bell for the
magnificent affairs they have initiated and coordinated for our African American female
students this year.
All the programs were truly remarkable and displayed the hard work and dedication
indicative of our BAC faculty and staff. The impact of the BAC is felt across the campus
and we are truly an integral part of assuring our students have success in their academic
pursuits, as well as personal lives toward the end of college completion and academic
success. We look forward to a busy fall semester as we continue to broaden our outreach
across the campuses and throughout the community. We will become more engaged with
our high school populations, and seek to offer more opportunities for our students to
become involved in service learning activities and community service. “We have only just
begun”. Have a wonderful, relaxed, and blessed summer, and come back ready to forge
ahead in the fall, working in the best interest of our students.
Phyllis Dukes-Hopson, Ph.D.
President, Black American Council
Counselor/Professor
Metropolitan Campus
BLACK MALE THINK TANK
The Black Male Think Tank was hosted by the Black American Council
on the 3rd of March, 2016 at the Metropolitan Campus of Cuyahoga
Community College.
The objective of the event was to allow Shaw High School and
Cuyahoga Community College students to engage in an open discussion as to
why completing your high school and college education is important. During
the discussion, panelists were asked a series of questions from the moderator
as to how they overcame obstacles/barriers as they achieved their educational
goals.
In addition, testimonials were given from each panelist detailing their
humble beginnings and their future educational aspirations.
COLLEGE FOR A DAY
On Thursday, April 14, 2016, the Black American Council along with the Educational Talent Search program
hosted five Cleveland Municipal Schools that included James Ford Rhodes, East Tech, John Adams, Lincoln
West, and Martin Luther King Health Career Schools for the Annual “College for a Day” event.
This program was held at the Metropolitan Campus where students were greeted by staff and faculty
members of the college. Warren Glen, Director of the Educational Talent Search program served as Master
of Ceremonies.
The students took a tour of the college, and they observed and participated in class lectures. Additionally,
students were able to observe such areas as the Recording Arts and Technology, and the Health Careers and
Science buildings.
At the end of the program, students were able to hear the kind, inspiring words of faculty member Andrew
Bajda of the Business department as well as other Black American Council students that are members of
the Black American Council.
Warren J. Glen Sr.
Director
Educational Talent Search
AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN AND MENTAL HEALTH
On April 20, 2016, a panel discussion featuring the African American women of counseling, which I
affectionately call the women of the Panel, convened in the Metro Campus Center Lounge. The Panel
discussed African American Women and Mental Health including topics on the stigma of mental health,
symptoms of mental health disorders, and how do women find African American mental health therapists. The
Counseling Department in collaboration with the Black American Council, Student Financial Aid and
Scholarships, and the Rape Crisis Center sponsored the Panel discussion. There was such a wonderful turn out
with over 50 women in attendance in addition to a few brave men. The responses to the topic and Panel was so
great that Dr. Dukes recommended we keep the momentum going and conduct the Panel again this Fall! The
Assistant Dean, Roland Ellis-Hill echoed Dr. Duke’s recommendation with an astounding YES! The next
event will take place in October during Mental
Health Awareness Month. The panel of women did a
terrific job. The Panel discussion featured Tri-C
Counseling Faculty: Lisa Belcher-Nelson, Contae
Bentley, Andrea Borders, Jeanette Davis, Phyllis
Dukes-Hopson, Cassandra Harris-Williams and
Linda Lanier.
Jeanette Davis
Assistant Professor/ Counselor
Metropolitan Campus
MENTORING
A mentor's main purpose is to help mentees define their individual goals and help them find ways to
achieve them. Since the expectations of a mentee will vary, the mentor's job is to encourage the development of
a flexible relationship that responds to both the mentor's and the mentee's needs. Mentoring is an age-old
concept that promotes human development. Through mentoring, individuals can more fully experience and
realize their potential. It is only because of the herculean effort of those who serve as mentors that we can
positively affect change in our students. Your effort, time, and commitment is extremely appreciated.
Without you, many of the great accolades that our students receive annually may not be possible. Please
be encouraged, as many mentors would not be as great as they are now if they were not once the mentee of a
dedicated mentor. In addition, let us continue in our endeavor to mentor our students even through the summer
and after graduation as appropriate. Let us not lose sight of the fact that Cuyahoga Community College is the
place “W here Futures Begin”! Thanks to all who serve as mentors.
Terry A. Webb,
Assistant Professor/Counselor
BAC Mentoring Chairperson
EASTERN CAMPUS
PHENOMENAL WOMAN 2016
The Minority Women’s Leadership Initiative is a fantastic and exciting program
and is specifically designed to uplift and encourage minority female students, by
providing support in academic, career and personal success. The program promotes
holistic self-awareness that will develop professional expertise, civic responsibility and
engagement, and the ability to balance college life with the obligations unique to the
female population. The Minority Women’s Leadership Initiative supports student
enrollment, graduation and successful transfer to a four-year college or university.
METROPOLITAN CAMPUS
PHENOMENAL WOMAN 2016
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
On the 3rd of February, 2016 Mike Muse was a featured guest of The Educational Talent Search
program's annual Black History Month Program at Cuyahoga Community College.
The event focused on "the politics of pop culture" as well as a recap of last year's topics and where
we are today as African Americans. Some of the topics discussed were, how are we to utilize our vote,
should athletes and entertainers be forced to use their celebrity for civil rights issues. The program ended
with question and answers from the audience.
On the 10th of February, 2016 the Educational Talent Search program hosted a Black History event
featuring Jeffrey Bowman. Bowman was also assisted/featured with Monika Grossman who is a member of
Cuyahoga Community College's 10,000 small businesses. The objective of the program was how you can
establish your own brand. Other areas discussed is the importance of being aware of yourself as a brand,
why they both ventured out on their own as entrepreneurs and how entrepreneurship begins at a young age.
CHOICES
Of course I enjoy being at home relaxing from a hectic, full week of work, school, and family
obligations” However, that was not the case when I gathered with the women of CHOICES, to receive
the inspiring knowledge of Ismail Douglas. You had to be there! Participants engaged in conversations
to learn how to take care of their bodies and minds through meditation and food-for thought.
Cultivating Self-Empowerment through Self-Awareness” was the topic for the month of
February. It was an eye opener to learn what we needed to nourish the body, heart, soul, and mind.
CHOICES continue to deliver what women need to move barriers and obstacles they face each day.
Through a series of workshops, CHOICES inspires and encourages women to learn from past
experiences and move forward. We understand that education and cultural enrichment will help us to
excel, but success and completion start within.
Beverly Owens, Founder of CHOICES
This workshop was fabulous! Mr. Douglas introduced us to Tai Chi and relaxation techniques!
He also shared with the group how important healthy eating is and the importance of fiber in our diets.
This workshop focused on healthy living, self-esteem, building self-confidence and acknowledging self
-worth! I found this workshop to be extremely helpful and fun. It gave me the opportunity to take a
moment to spend quality time with my mentee as well as myself.
Mikki Hardwick Lett, Co-Coordinator
The CHOICES women’s group workshop, Cultivating Self-Empowerment through SelfAwareness, was great! The hands-on exercises helped us all understand body balance and coordination.
All 19 participants including the leaders of CHOICES, learned how to take care of their mental and
physical health by stretching, eating, and meditating. This workshop was very helpful as well as
encouraging. I personally believe that every participant walked away with thought-provoking
information that will cultivate change. CHOICES inspires and motivates women, as a Mentor for the
Black American Council, I will continue to reach out to the female population and offer support.
Cuyahoga Community College is truly where futures begin!
Lori A. Williams, Co-Coordinator
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
Hello my name is Heidi H Hubbard,
I am mother of seven children with a 4.0 grade point average. I am
a sophomore and qualified for the Dean’s list at Cuyahoga Community
College. I am pursuing an Associate of Arts degree and an Associate of
Applied Business Degree in Hospitality Management with a concentration
in Culinary Arts. I work in the Metro Campus Counseling Department as a
work-study student and participate in the Peer mentoring program. I am a
member of Black American Council, TRIO, CASA, and was inducted into
the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society April, 2016. I was recently given the
honor of speaking at the Minority Women’s Leadership Initiative
“Phenomenal Woman” event in February. Upon graduation, I plan to
transfer to Cleveland State University to pursue a B.S. in Psychology. My
goal is to open a Safe Haven for at risk youth and provide youth paid
training in the Hospitality field. I also plan to work at Cuyahoga
Community College in the future so I can become a mentor thru the Black
American Council. Then I can give back the same inspiration and
empower the next generation of students on their path of pursuing their
dreams that has been given to me.
Hello my name is Tawanna Tyson,
I am a single mother raising a 14 year-old black male. I try to
provide guidance for him in addition to setting an example for him. I am
currently an Associates of Arts major at Tri-C. I started in the ABLE
program in 2013. After completing my GED, I immediately enrolled into
college and began my journey to success. I have unconditional support
from faculty, staff and outstanding resources like TRIO Student Support
Services and the Black American Council. These resources has helped me
overcome obstacles in my path to graduation. I use that momentum to help
other fellow students succeed. I am a student ambassador but I am also a
peer mentor and I help first-year and continuing students identify and
overcome barriers to reaching their own successes. I was recognized for
my tremendous growth and accomplishments at the Black American
Council’s Phenomenal Women’s event in March, 2016. I am graduating
May 19, 2016 and I will also be inducted into Phi Theta Kappa this spring,
and honored on the Dean’s List. I plan to transfer to the University of
Akron to pursue a Bachelor's degree in social work.
BLACK AMERICAN COUNCIL
OUTSTANDING MENTEE ALUMNI
Michael Weatherspoon
Mentor: Mr. Henry Young
At the 2015 Fall Commencement Michael Weatherspoon’s educational journey which
included a three-year hiatus culminated. Michael never doubted he would eventually
hear his name called at the ceremony: “I always knew I’d get my degree,” he said.
His actions have come with one goal in mind — serving others. “I know there are
people out there who need help,” said Michael. “I want to position myself
academically to be able to make a difference.”
Throughout time, he kept in contact with two of the first people he met at Tri-C —
Professor Henry Young and Student Success Specialist, James Gardner, both members
of the Black American Council. When Michael became a mentee of The Black
American Council, many doors of opportunity opened up for him. He attended Black
Male Summits with the group in Akron, Ohio, as well as the Black Male Think Tanks,
got motivational and education support from faculty of the Black American Council
and became a junior mentor to many of our younger students. Michael’s experience
with the Black American Council motivated him to continue his education, knowing
he had the personal and educational tools to be successful and continue his
educational goals.
After graduating from Tri-C, Michael enrolled at Cleveland State University to begin
work on a bachelor’s degree in communication management. He eventually wants to
earn a master’s degree and doctorate and return to Tri-C to teach and mentor students.
MENTEE RECOGNITION
Black American Council Outstanding Mentee
Jayla D. Knight
Mentor: Ms. Mynetta Brower
Jayla is a freshman at Tri-C’s Eastern Campus, working towards her Associate of Science degree. She
plans to attend Cleveland State University to pursue her Bachelor’s degree in Pre Med. Jayla is an
outstanding student, and she has become an active member of the Black American Council, CHOICES and
a News Reporter for The V oice student newspaper. Jayla is one of the 1st place winners for her
participation and creativity in the contest for the 2015-16 Common Reading Program, where students were
challenged to use their creativity and reimagine the selected “Drew Magary’s dystopian novel The
Postmortal” .
Jayla is a Degree in Three (D3) student, and she participates with other departments and their programs,
such as TriO, Student Life and Career Center at Tri-C’s Eastern Campus. Jayla’s goal is to become a
forensic psychiatrist and school psychologist. She desires to assist her community as they grow in positive
directions, and support others as they achieve their life’s dreams and goals. Jayla declares that her mother is
her inspiration to work hard and enjoy the rewards, and she wants to set an example for her family and her
community. Jayla is not intimidated by challenges and turns every negative encounter into a positive
learning environment.
Black American Council Outstanding Mentee
Quentin Benson
Mentor: Mr. Terry A. Webb
Quentin is an outstanding mentee who has overcome many obstacles. He started off his college career
struggling and has since turned it around. He is always willing to assist the Black Scholars in any way that
he can. He is truly worthy of the distinction of being honored as an Outstanding Mentee.
Quentin has participated in almost every activity that has been sponsored by the Black American Council.
He is a charter member of the BAC Black Scholars Academy, and he has attended every Black Male Think
Tank presentation. Quentin has also participated in the Black Male Summit at the University of Akron for
the past two years. He is a consistent role model and recruiter for the Tri-C’s Black American Council. He
has successfully raised his grade point average and stays in contact with his mentor, Professor Terry A.
Webb. Quentin is truly a Black Scholar. His goal is to complete a Master of Arts degree and use his artistic
skills to teach the importance of art in the world.
MENTEE RECOGNITION
Black American Council Outstanding Mentee
Sean Payne
Mentor: Dr. Lemuel Stewart III
Sean is one of our outstanding mentees at the Western Campus. He is a second year student
pursuing an Associate of Arts Degree with a focus on History. Sean is a student who will utilize
all of his resources in order to succeed. Sean has a love for history and has a career goal of
becoming a museum curator. He recently applied for an internship with the Western Reserve
Historical Society.
Sean is an active member of the BAC Mentoring Program and the Minority Male Leadership
Academy (MWLA). He has participated in most of the activities sponsored by the BAC and he
attended the Black Male Summit at the University of Akron. Sean is a fine young man who is
willing to go out of his way to help others. He assisted first year students in learning the ropes
on campus and helping them to feel good about being here at Tri-C. He is one of our most active
mentees and a level III MMLA member.
Black American Council Outstanding Mentee
Rokeishia Shan’te Smith
Mentor: Ms. Toni Pickens
Rokeishia is a native of Cleveland, Ohio and will be graduating with an Associate of Arts degree
from Cuyahoga Community College this spring 2016. She is an Honors Program member and
she holds leadership positions on campus and in the community. Rokeishia currently serves as
president of Student Government at the Western Campus and is the secretary of the Joint
Student Council. She is the recipient of the Newman Civic Fellowship Award and has
participated in the Robert L. Lewis Academy of Scholars at Tri-C designed for students with a
passion for social justice. Her project involved collaborating with the Spanish American
Committee on Cleveland’s West side--designing and implementing workshops focused on
communication and parenting skills development for small children.
Rokeishia has worked to connect Student Government and the Greater Cleveland Food Bank to
host produce days that have provided over 4473 meals to families from September 2015 to
March 2016. She is also a member of the Black American Council, the Minority Women’s
Leadership Initiative, Educators of Today and Tomorrow, and Phi Theta Kappa. Rokeishia plans
to transfer to Cleveland State University, and ultimately earn a doctorate in educational
psychology in order to work with children. Her motto: “I can do all things through Christ which
strengthens me”. Philippians 4:13
OUTSTANDING MENTEES
Black American Council Outstanding Mentee
Moneeke Davis
Mentor: Ms. Charmain Gordon
Moneeke is a sophomore at Cuyahoga Community College pursuing an associate degree in
nursing and is the newly appointed president of the Tri-C Student Nurses Association. She is
also a member of Circle K International, Black American Council, National Student Nurse
Association and a Mandel Scholar. Moneeke received the 2015 Community Spirit award from
the Detroit Shoreway Community Development Organization for her work in the
neighborhood. Moneeke sits on the Steering Committee for Our Alleys Revitalized (OAR)
and runs a youth community garden, Mustard Seed Garden, on Elton Avenue.
Moneeke is a woman of strength, love, happiness, discipline, chaos, and indifference. As a
teenage mother who obtained her GED, she struggled to raise her oldest son, who has serious
health issues, but Moneeke never gave up. She attended Brown Mackie College and
graduated from the Practical Nursing program.
Today, Moneeke is the proud, loving mother of five and she is a shining example of
perseverance and determination to her children, all of whom have experienced great success
of their own. Moneeke’s mission is to use her gifts, knowledge, and abilities to bring people
together to change the nation one community at a time.
Black American Council Outstanding Mentee
Derrick Lee
Mentor: Mr. Terry A. Webb
Derrick is an outstanding mentee and student. He is a charter member of the Black Scholars
Academy, and he has maintained a high grade point average while working a full-time job. He
is truly the personification of someone who desires a better future. Derrick has overcome
several obstacles during his tenure as a student at Tri-C. Nonetheless, he is still on his way to
becoming an early childhood teacher. Derrick is very supportive of the Black American
Council is willing to assist in any way that he can.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
GOSPEL CELBRATION
The Black Scholars Academy and the Minority Male Leadership Academy hosted a Gospel
Celebration on the Metropolitan Campus on February 25, 2016. The celebration was well
attended. The group Humbled was showcased during this event. In addition, several TRI-C
students shared there talents through oration and song.
Gospel music titillates the soul and moves the feet
of those who are willing to subject themselves to the
depth of the connection with the human experience.
It is a living experience, always changing, always
giving, and always becoming the foundation that
gives moral, physical, and spiritual support to a
great and powerful people.
Special Thank You to BAC Mentors
Thank you for agreeing to be a Black American Council mentor. Historically, mentoring has imparted
life skills, teaching, and training to individuals to maximize their potential. Moreover, mentoring is a very
rewarding and potentially exhilarating venture. When you see your mentees graduate from Tri-C and or read
about their accomplishments, rest assured you would be proud. Your selfless commitment and willingness to
share your professional and tempered life experience helps to propel your mentees to the next level. Please be
mindful that in the event you need assistance you have Beverly Owens, and Terry A. Webb, to assist you with
any concerns you may have. Continue to shine your light on those that you mentor, motivate, and educate and
guide them to achieve the greatness that is dormant in each of your mentees. Once again, thank you for sharing
your gifts, experiences, educational and training with those who need to know that success is not just a
destination but also a journey. Success is a journey that is attainable for anyone that is willing to work and be
coached. Once again thank you, and WE STILL NEED MORE MENTORS FOR NEXT ACADEMIC YEAR.
Please contact the Black American Council office to sign up to become a mentor today.
Beverley Owens, MBA
Terry A. Webb, MA, LPC, NCC
Mentoring Co-Chair
Mentoring Co-Chair
Black American Council
Black American Council
MIDAS TOUCH MENTOR
It gives me great pleasure to present a new section within our Newsletter. Our first BAC Midas
Touch Mentor is, Ms. Lori A. Williams - Concierge, District Office. Lor i is a ver y dedicated
Mentor who goes above and beyond to make sure her mentees are doing well
and equipped with the necessary tools they need to succeed. In addition to
weekly interactions with her mentees, Lori shares personal (life) and
academic semester goals, as well as time management skills by providing her
mentees with daily calendar sheets. Lori provides regular updates to the BAC
via emails, phone calls and submission of monthly Mentee Encounter forms.
Thank you Lori for all you do on behalf of our students. You are truly
making a difference in their lives at Cuyahoga Community College.
Jacques O. Smith, Sr.
BAC Program Manager
If you would like to be featured as the next Midas Touch Mentor or wish to nominate someone, please
send a brief write-up to [email protected]
MISSION: To educate, encour age, empower , and pr ovide guidance to collegiate Black
men to facilitate the procurement of future scholars, leaders and men.
On April 8-9th of 2016, the Black Scholars academy and the Minority Male Leadership
Academy attended THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON BLACK MALE SUMMIT. A total of
eleven young men benefitted from this awesome experience. The majority of the young men
were from the Metropolitan campus. Three were from Western and one from Eastern campus.
This was an excellent event because of the workshops, networking, and exposure to other
mentoring organizations for African American males throughout the country.
In addition, national speakers such a Steven A. Smith, Marc Morial, Tavis Smiley,
Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe, and Roland Martin shared their experiences and wisdom with all those
present. At the heart of all the presentations and information shared was the message that
African American men must hold each other up and be accountable. Staff in attendance
included Dr. Lemuel Stewart, Dr. Christopher Hawkins, Dr. Emhonta Johnson, Mr. Jacques
Smith, and Professor Terry A. Webb. The president of the Black American Council, Dr.
Phyllis Dukes-Hopson also attended the Summit. We were honored to have Professor Emeritus
Robert Patterson join us for the Saturday events.
BLACK AMERICAN COUNCIL COLLEGE SERVICE AWARDS
Mikki Hardwick-Lett
Ms. Hardwick-Lett has been a faithful member of the admissions office for 25 years. She
has been a role model in the area of student mentoring, encouraging prospective, new and
continuing students to be all that they can be. She is energetic and personable, and takes her
role and responsibility seriously. She welcomes the opportunity to participate in activities
that promote student success and goes beyond the call of duty to represent Tri-C well.
Ms. Hardwick-Lett always displays a caring personality and is genuinely concerned about students and
colleagues. She will go the extra mile to find information for students and steer them in the right direction.
She is always pleasant and presents a warm, friendly attitude to the public she serves.
Ms. Hardwick-Lett has served as a member of the Black American Council throughout her tenure at Tri-C and
has served as the co-chair of the holiday social fundraiser for the past six years. The BAC salutes Ms.
Hardwick-Lett for all her years of service at the College.
Deborah Simpson
Deborah Simpson began her career at Tri-C’s Eastern Campus in 1986 as a part-time
program assistant in the Senior Adult Education program. She began working full time in
1989 as a student advisor at Metro Campus and later became the director of the Women in
Transition Program College-wide. Upon accepting the position of coordinator in
Continuing and Professional Education, she moved back to the Eastern Campus. She currently serves as
director of
at the Eastern Campus. She holds a Master of Education from
John Carroll University and a Bachelor of Arts from Howard University.
Some of Mrs. Simpson’s notable accomplishments include the receipt of several awards including the 2007
Cuyahoga Community College Professional Excellence Award for the Metro Campus and The Chair
Academy Dr. Idahlynn Karre Exemplary Leadership Award 2014 for the Tri-C Test Prep Team. She served as
co-chair of the Frances M. Franklin Scholarship Luncheon from 2006 to 2011 and is a past vice president of
the Black American Council (2013-2014). Mrs. Simpson is also a graduate of the Mandel Leadership Program
and serves as Eastern Campus coordinator for the Minority Women’s Leadership Initiative.
Mrs. Simpson has been a vital part of the college for 30 years. She has been and continues to be a strong
advocate for student success. Mrs. Simpson is the proud parent of two children, and a devoted wife to Rev.
Dr. Earl Simpson. We salute you for all you contributed to our organization and the College.
BLACK AMERICAN COUNCIL HOLIDAY PARTY 2015

26th Annual Francis M. Franklin Scholarship & Protégé Luncheon: May 7, 2016
Celebrating student success with our theme, “Moving Forward”

Annual Spring Mentoring Trip—May 28, 2016

BAC Executive Board Meeting—June 2016
Tisha Hardy, Student
eCommunications Specialist, District
NEWSLETTER
STAFF 2015-2016
Terry A. Webb, Assistant Professor,
Counseling, Metropolitan Campus