Cougar Bytes for Friday, February 25, 2022
Cougar Bytes
Friday, February 25, 2022
Vol. XV, No. 2
The next issue of COUGAR BYTES will
be published on
Friday, Mar. 25, 2022.
IN THIS ISSUE
- CCCC EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH!
- WOW! WHAT A TEAM!
- CCCC FEATURES
- PERSONNEL NOTES
- CCCC-BAY
- CONTRIBUTE
CCCC Employee of the Month!
January Full-Time
Employee of the Month: Wrenn Crowe
"In everything she does, Wrenn goes the extra mile and gives from the heart. She never expects any recognition or praise."
"Wrenn volunteers to make blankets and pillows. She has donated hygiene supplies, socks and gloves for seniors. She came to the seniors' Christmas party and spent hours taking pictures with her own camera and supplies; she then had pictures printed to give out to them at no charge."
Wrenn Crowe
Student Onboarding and Outreach, CTE Programs
How long have you worked for CCCC?
I’ve been with the college for almost nine years.
What brought you to CCCC?
After 20 years, I was ready to come back home (N.C.). My work with the City University of New York (CUNY) led me to continue my work in higher education but in a different role.
Describe what you do for CCCC.
I primarily assist, guide and support prospective, new, returning, traditional and non-traditional students with navigating the admission, residency, enrollment, and financial roadways to becoming a CCCC Cougar.
Where were you born?
Fort Bragg, N.C.
Where did you grow up?
Spring Lake, N.C.
Where do you live now?
Spring Lake, N.C.
Educational credentials?
I have a Master's Degree in Urban Studies from Queens College in New York, and I have a Bachelor's Degree in Business with a minor in Marketing from Fayetteville State University in Fayetteville, N.C.
Tell us about your family!
I have a daughter who is a CCCC graduate that transferred to FSU and completed her BA this past May, and I have a sister who lives in Georgia, and Ms. Apple our Beagle.
What are some of your hobbies or other interests outside of CCCC?
I am an avid reader and a frequent patron of the College Library and my community libraries. I am a novice quilter, and I want to knit.
What is your favorite meal?
I enjoy eating. I enjoy eating more when I do not have to cook. My taste runs the gamut. But, my all-time favorite is CAKE, not store-bought cake, but homemade cake or fresh pie.
Anything else you'd like to share with the CCCC family?
I work with a really great team. Being a part of Student Outreach & Recruitment (SOAR), now Student Onboarding & Outreach. Kelvin, Patrick, and Stephanie, each in their own way, have assisted and guided me with expanding my knowledge in higher education and making me successful in my position. For that, I will be forever grateful.
WOW! WHAT A TEAM!
Recognizing Kirk J. Bradley Support
Kirk J. Bradley has been an integral part of the greater Central Carolina area for many years. His community involvement has included strong support and commitment to Central Carolina Community College.
In his honor, the college's student center at CCCC's Chatham Health Sciences Center (CHSC) is now recognized as the Kirk J. Bradley Student Center. A celebration of this recognition took place on Friday, Feb. 18, at the CCCC CHSC facility located in the Briar Chapel area of Chatham County. Programs at the facility include Medical Assisting, Nurse Aide, EMS (Emergency Medical Services)/EMT (Emergency Medical Technician), Health & Fitness Science, and BioWork.
Campus Fund Drive
What a year!
Your passion and care are evident in the ways you serve our students and each other. Your continued support and participation are extremely important to the overall fundraising success of the college!
The Foundation supported our students and staff in incredible ways!
- Provided over $737,000 in assistance for the college and its students
- Awarded over $16,000 in Professional Development
- Supports student needs through the Dream Keeper Student Emergency Fund
- The Cougar Market (now located on all three campuses)
- Funds for department needs and projects
- Equipment needs
- Sponsored conferences, awards and leadership programs
Please show your support and appreciation for each other and the Foundation by contributing to this year’s fund drive. All information can be found on the 2022 Campus Fund Drive website. Packets have also been delivered to your campus mailbox.
We have a fun week of coffee breaks, hot chocolate, lunches and our annual employee golf tournament planned. We hope to see each of you at these events!
As always, thank you for your support of the CCCC Foundation!
Best regards,
Emily & Abby
6th Annual International Culture Night
Travel with us to over 15 different countries on March 3 in Sanford!
El Refugio, in collaboration with the College, Lee County Arts Council, and United Bank, invite you to attend our 6th Annual International Culture Night.
Each country will be represented by an exhibit featuring various aspects of its culture such as food, art and crafts, games, history, traditional dress, and music. The goal of the International Culture Night is foster positive relationships through cultural exchange through sharing knowledge, hopes, and experiences.
And the best part is the event is FREE!
To ensure a safe event, El Refugio will adhere to the CDC guidelines and the College's COVID-19 procedures. Participants are expected to wear a mask, wash your hands, and watch your distance if applicable. Hand sanitizers will be placed on all display tables and at entrances.
If you have any questions about the event, please email elrefugioevents@gmail.com or call (919) 352-9709.
Free Dental Services for Employees
CCCC employees, please come and see what all the “Smiles” are about. Sign up to be a patient of the CCCC Dental Hygiene Program. Exams, x-rays, and cleanings are offered free. Click here to register. Our students need YOU!
Help Us Locate The Hidden Perks of CCCC!
To staff and faculty,
We are considering putting together a list of the lesser-known reasons why students of all backgrounds should choose to enroll at CCCC.
We realize that there are hidden perks, both academic and non-academic, that come along with being a student at CCCC, such as:
- Free dental hygiene care,
- Access to the Cougar Market and Career Closet,
- Tummy-time sessions with our beloved Cougar Pets throughout the day,
- Potential child care assistance,
- ...and more.
We want to know what YOU offer to students that they (and we!) might not realize. Hit us with your best shot! Please send your perks to mschmid@cccc.edu for consideration.
Expert Commentary on Moneygeek.com
Moneygeek.com has reconnected with Business Instructor Steve Heesacker, who provided expert commentary on their new piece, Guide To Startup Business Loans & Financing Options. Read Steve's FAQ contribution.
Student Activities
We HEART Valentine's Day
Students had a blast celebrating an early Valentine's Day with a candy buffet, stuff a heart, and stuff a plush! All three Main Campuses joined in on the fun! We hope you had a love-filled Valentine's Day!
Student Ambassador Recruitment
We are officially recruiting for the 2022-2023 Student Ambassador Program!
Applications will open on March 1 and close at 8 a.m. on March 21. Any student who qualifies for the program can apply, but they are required to obtain two recommendations from CCCC staff or faculty. We have let the students know that they should speak with their recommenders first, before listing their names on the application. To simplify the process, once a student lists a faculty or staff member for a recommendation, an email will automatically be sent to that faculty or staff member with a link to the recommendation form. There is no need to write a formal letter of recommendation, however, you will have the opportunity to provide additional commentary at the end of the recommendation form.
We are asking that all faculty and staff recommendations be completed by Monday, March 21, at the end of the day, so that applications can be reviewed.
The requirements for the Student Ambassadors program are as follows:
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Semester GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Curriculum student that has completed at least 12 credit hours. Curriculum student status is determined by the definition in the CCCC Catalog
- Full-time status per program definition. If below full-time status, permission must be granted by the advisor prior to the beginning of the semester
If you have a student in mind that you think would make an amazing Student Ambassadors, please send their name and student ID number to Katy Jones, Student Activities Coordinator, at kdjones@cccc.edu.
More information, including the application and available resources, can be found at www.cccc.edu/studentlife/ambassadors.
Spring Fling(s)
Spring Flings are back and we want you to save the date!
Chatham Main Campus: April 12
Harnett Main Campus: April 21
Lee Main Campus: April 27
Upcoming Programs and Events
Here is a sneak peek of our upcoming March Programs:
- Women's History Month Virtual Trivia (Every Tuesday on the Student Activities Facebook and Instagram)
- Soar to New Heights with the Ambassadors!
- It's a Garden Party with Airplants!
- Women's History Month Speaker on Wednesday, March 30th at Noon
If you are planning an activity or event and would like Student Ambassador help, please visit the website at www.cccc.edu/studentlife/ambassadors to submit a request!
CCCC REGULARS
From The Bookstore
Lee Campus Bookstore in Sanford
The Lee Campus Bookstore is open. Please visit any weekday. We open at 9 a.m. and close at 4:30 p.m. except Fridays. We close at 2 p.m. on Fridays.
Harnett Campus Bookstore in Lillington
The Harnett Campus Bookstore is open. Please visit any weekday. We open at 10 a.m. and close at 4 p.m. except Fridays. We close at 2 p.m. on Fridays.
Pick up
CCCC spring gear
at centralcarolinashop.com
News From The Library
Lee and Harnett Library Event Highlights
Women’s History Month
Stop by the CCCC Lee and Harnett libraries anytime in March to check out our displays for Women’s History Month! Both campuses will have book and DVD displays showing off the history, achievements and struggles of women! Try your hand at the “That’s what she said” quote quiz at Lee or check out Harnett’s highlights on women who have made major contributions to humanity!
Words on Wheels
The library is coming to you! Words on Wheels (WOW) is a mini bookmobile for faculty. Morgan will be out and about on Harnett Main Campus on March 8th and 29th, and at the Harnett Health Sciences Building on March 8th. If you have specific book or DVD requests, you can let us know before we come and we will bring those to you. We will collect any library returns you may have as well. Be sure to have your library card with you. Email Morgan Pruit at mpruitt@cccc.edu with requests and questions.
Lunch & Learn: Teaching with Visual Literacy and Library Resource
Join us March 15th at Noon for an online Lunch and Learn workshop! CCCC Librarians will introduce faculty to visual literacy and library resources that can be used to teach and learn with visual literacy.
Learning Outcomes: By the end of the session, faculty will be able to:
- Understand the value of visual literacy in the classroom
- Identify how the library can help to support visual literacy in teaching and learning
- Articulate the importance of visual resources in research
Register for this event here: tinyurl.com/visualliteracyinclass
Chatham Library Event Highlights
Free N95 Masks to Chatham Residents
In partnership with the Chatham County Public Health Department, Chatham Community Library is distributing free N95 masks to Chatham County residents. Each household may pick up one box of 20 masks at the front desk, available while supplies last.
Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority (virtual film screening)
In recognition of Women's History Month, Chatham Community Library will host a virtual film screening of Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority, beginning Thursday, March 10, and continuing through Thursday, March 17.
In 1965, Patsy Takemoto Mink became the first woman of color in the United States Congress. Seven years later, she ran for the U.S. presidency and was the driving force behind Title IX, the landmark legislation that transformed women’s opportunities in higher education and athletics. Mink was an Asian American woman who fought racism and sexism while redefining U.S. politics. Her tumultuous, often lonely, political journey reveals what can be at stake for female politicians that defy expectations, push limits, and adhere to their principles.
Access to the virtual screening will be available beginning Thursday, March 10, on the Virtual Screening for Chatham Community Library site. A password is required at the time of viewing. Please contact social.library@chathamlibraries.org to request the password or for additional information.
Library Event Calendars
Want to know what's happening in the Lee, Harnett or Chatham Library this semester? Keep an eye on the Lee and Harnett Library Events Calendar and Chatham Events Calendar for events that interest you!
Red Clay Review
The 2021 issue of Red Clay Review is available for your reading enjoyment. Download the complete issue of the Red Clay Review or view online at Red Clay Review.
The Red Clay Review is calling for writing and visual art submissions. Visit the Red Clay Review website for complete information!
Open the Door by Erika Hoffman
Anyone who's taught public high school day in and day out for a decade or more will likely concur most schooldays are humdrum: few stick out in one's memory after a significant passage of time. Looking back on that portion of my life, I recall a few unique ones. Back in 1974 or maybe 1975, there was one such day at Southwest DeKalb High School in Atlanta, Georgia--the day Pat Conroy showed up.
What made this world-famous, lauded Southern novelist come to my English class? After all, I was only a 24-year-old rookie teacher. Back in the day, kids sought extra credit because A's weren't passed out like Skittles. Kids proffered all sorts of ideas for projects they'd complete to augment their GPAs. I came up with a suggestion. I'd offer extra credit to anybody who invited a published writer to be our guest speaker on Fridays.
"Could my mom come? She publishes the church bulletin?" queried one hopeful chap.
"If she gives us pointers on writing, sure!"
A quiet towheaded boy with almost pure platinum hair in a bowl cut whose Coke-bottle glasses magnified the palest blue eyes shyly raised one hand. I couldn't remember his ever volunteering before. In a meek voice, he said, "I know someone. He wrote a book. Can he come?"
"Toby, what's his book about?"
"Water," he answered.
"A science book?"
Toby Williams shrugged and looked about to retreat into his usual state of perpetual quietude when I added, "Certainly. Any published writer will teach us something. Toby, can he come this Friday?"
Toby nodded. In truth, I can't remember now if the kid said this writer was his cousin or uncle. (Presently, my mind is just like a steel ... whatcha-ma-callit!)
No matter.
...
Continue reading this prose online on page 16 at Online Red Clay Review
PERSONNEL NOTES
Welcome New Full-Time Employees!
- Joelle Chase, Education Navigator
- Jessica Hinsley, Career & Technical Education Success Coach
- Doris Jackson, Biology Instructor
- Harleigh Monaghan, Administrative Assistant for Nursing and Sonography
- Ashley Mullins, TRiO, Student Support Services, Academic Coach
Thank you
Thank you from Shirley Rijkse
Thank you for all the flowers, kind words, thoughts, and prayers shared with me during the loss of my father. Words cannot express the appreciation for my work family, especially the business department. Your generous spirits will not be forgotten and have been a comfort. ~ Shirley
Thank you from Susan M. Macklin My thanks to my CCCC family for the support and condolences during the death of my stepfather, Verl Kiken. My mother was surprised that CCCC was so far away and still managed to get a beautiful bouquet of flowers to the service. When I first walked in and was told you all had sent flowers, I did feel that warmth of CCCC love surround me and help me through a difficult time. Thank You. ~ Susan
Thank you from Alyce Gaines Dear CCCC family, thank you for your caring and support during the loss of my son, Rodney Gaines. The plant you sent was beautiful. It means a lot to be a part of such a caring group of people. Please continue to keep me in your thoughts and prayers. ~ Alyce
Member Focus Newsletter
The Member Focus Newsletter keeps you up-to-date on your State Health Plan benefits. View the most recent issue at Member Focus Online.
Birthdays
| 2/25 | Heather McKenzie |
| 2/26 | Joelle Chase |
| 2/26 | Regina Minter |
| 2/27 | Sylvester King |
| 2/28 | Lisa Matthews |
| 2/28 | Chesure Tate |
| 2/28 | Lauren Winkens |
| 2/29 | David Malenick |
| 3/1 | Edward Mercer |
| 3/1 | Kiel Rhodes |
| 3/1 | Macy Woods |
| 3/3 | Ronnie Measamer |
| 3/3 | Andrew Walser |
| 3/4 | Joseph Harris |
| 3/5 | Angela Crisp-Sears |
| 3/6 | Laquan Black |
| 3/7 | Susan Johnson |
| 3/7 | James McNeill |
| 3/9 | Maria Buxens |
| 3/11 | Paul Reynolds |
| 3/11 | Amber Rocks |
| 3/12 | Christie McDougald |
| 3/15 | Jamie Childress |
| 3/16 | Theresa Ellis |
| 3/16 | Deborah Wall |
| 3/17 | Tonya Davis |
| 3/17 | Paciddia McDonald |
| 3/18 | Trinity Faucett |
| 3/18 | Melissa Godfrey |
| 3/19 | Jairo McMican |
| 3/20 | Amanda Carter |
| 3/21 | Frederick Brucker |
| 3/21 | Jeffrey Gannon |
| 3/22 | Nicholas Testa |
| 3/23 | Carla Parrish |
| 3/24 | Consuela Blaizes |
| 3/25 | Billie Thompson |
| 3/26 | Peggy Cotten |
| 3/26 | Ken Hoyle |
| 3/26 | Jarett McLamb |
| 3/26 | Michelle Sroka |
| 3/28 | Erin Blakeley |
| 3/28 | Karen Brown |
| 3/28 | Bill Freeman |
| 3/28 | Christopher McNeill |
| 3/30 | Percy Crutchfield |
| 3/30 | Fernanda Perry |
| 3/30 | Lorraine Whitaker |
If you would prefer not to be listed or if your name does not appear as you'd like, please email marketing@cccc.edu and let us know.
News From The CCCC Family
Please keep Sara Newcomb, Director of Secondary Partnership, family in your prayers as her father, Billy Wayne Allen, passed away on February 14th. Read more about Billy Allen's life and offer condolences at Worthington Funeral Home.
Please keep Colonel Daniel Tomita, EMS adjunct, and family in your prayers as his father-in-law, Ted Workman, passed away on February 13th. Read more about Ted Workman and offer condolences at Myers Funeral Home.
Please keep Susan Macklin, Program Director, Emergency Medical Services, and family in your prayers as her mother, Barbara Faye Kuiken, passed away on February 12th. Please read more about Barbara Kuiken at Rentschler Family Mortuaries and to offer condolences.
Please keep Vivian Simpson, Lee Main Campus Receptionist, and family in your thoughts as her brother-in-law, Royce Vernon Simpson, passed away on February 6th. Learn more about Royce Simpson and offer condolences at Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home.
Please keep Shelly Hodges, Medical Programs Coordinator, and family in your thoughts as her grandfather, Hoover Weldon Byrd, passed away on January 30th. Visit Skinner & Smith Funeral Home to read about Mr. Byrd and offer condolences.
Please keep Shirley Rijkse, Lead Instructor, HR & Workforce Readiness, and family in your prayers. Her father, James F. Cox, passed away on January 22nd. Please visit Prasser Kleczka Funeral Homes to read about Mr. Cox and to offer condolences.
CCCC-BAY
Things Wanted, For Sale, or For Free!
Pottery Barn coffee table for sale. Purchased brand new in Spring 2017. Rustic reclaimed wood style. Good condition. Email Erynn Stainback at estai049@cccc.edu for more pictures and measurements. Price reduced to $100.
What a great time of year to sell some things! CCCC-Bay is happy to post your items in Cougar Bytes! Send an email (photos would be great) to Marketing at marketing@cccc.edu and we will feature in next month's publication.
FACULTY AND STAFF ONLINE
Join the Activity on Social Media!
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
YOUTUBE
BLOGS
Digital NCDo you write a blog, have a Twitter account, or Facebook page for your department or classroom? Share your link! Send to marketing@cccc.edu.
COUGAR PETS
Cougar Pets News
Cougar Pets is a local animal rescue group housed on the Lee Main Campus. As part of the Veterinary Medical Technology program, our animals help teach veterinary technician students essential skills that will help future animals. All of the animals are rescued from shelters, and all are adoptable.
Meet Primrose
My name is Primrose. I am a mature 7-year-old female that loves to play and cuddle! I am very laid back and make friends easily with cats, but am unsure around dogs. I am very sweet and love to be loved, but also know how to be independent. It is time for me to find my furever home!
Meet Larry
Larry is a Beagle mix. He is now maturing at 5 years, but a lifetime of affection once he finds his furever home. It is time for Larry, too!
Tater Tot, featured last month, has found his furever home! See all of the happy endings, or rather Happy Tails of Cougar Pets.
All adoptable dogs and cats are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on all vaccines. They have had regular dental cleanings, blood work, and physical exams. We pride ourselves on the care that our cats and dogs receive during their stay. Contact us at www.cougarpets.org for more information on our colony dogs and available cats.
CONTRIBUTE
Contribute to Cougar Bytes
Send along your Cougar Bytes contributions! Our monthly Cougar Bytes newsletter focuses on staff and faculty. We welcome your images of the campuses, staff and faculty successes, events, and shout-outs in each issue. Please submit your contributions to marketing@cccc.edu with any questions or suggestions.
The deadline for contributions is March 23 for the March issue. Upcoming issues:
- March 25
- April 22
- May 27
- June 24
- July 22
- August 26
- September 23
The next issue of COUGAR BYTES will be published on Friday, Mar. 25, 2022.
Flashback to Cougar Bytes February 2017.