March 22, 2019 | Issue # 134
In three weeks, we’ll be in Orlando, Florida, celebrating community colleges’ time in the sun at the 99th Annual AACC Convention. With hundreds of sessions covering diverse topics, the conference is the premier professional development event of the year. The convention also allows us to recognize those in our sector who truly shine.
I’m thrilled to announce that we’ll be recognizing Drs. Helen Benjamin and Mary Spilde with the AACC Leadership Award at the Edmund J. Gleazer, Jr. Opening Lecture on April 13. At the Hail & Farewell Luncheon on April 14, we’ll honor new and retiring CEOs, and those who have served 25 years. The Awards of Excellence Gala on April 15 gives us a chance to celebrate the innovative practices that are taking place on campuses. And at the David R. Pierce Outstanding Alumni Brunch on April 16, we’ll close the convention by recognizing three amazing community college alumni. We’ll also be honoring distinguished faculty members with the Dale P. Parnell Faculty Distinction Recognition at a private reception.
During a House hearing March 13 on college costs, it was the testimony of a community college graduate who summed up the challenges that many 2-year college students face, as well as the college services available to help them cross such hurdles. Read about it in CC Daily.
“Improving the Student Experience”
Central Arizona College took a three-pronged approach to better serving students. Learn about it at the AACC 21st Century Center.
Advisory Board on Community College Apprenticeships Announced
I am delighted to announce the formation and congratulate the members of the Advisory Board on Community College Apprenticeships. This board of community college leaders experienced with apprenticeships and work-based learning programs has been formed to support the AACC/U.S. Department of Labor’s Expanding Community College Apprenticeship (ECCA) initiative.
Purchase Event Tickets for the AACC Convention
Going to the AACC Annual Convention? Tickets for the Hail & Farewell Luncheon, the Awards of Excellence Gala, and the Outstanding Alumni Brunch must be purchased separately. If you’ve already registered, but haven’t purchased tickets, you can still do so through the registration system. Ticket sales close March 28 and tickets will not be available for purchase at the convention.
Apply to Serve on an AACC Commission
AACC has nine commissions, which were established to provide advice to the AACC board and staff and to encourage collaboration among community college entities and organizations. Interested in serving on a commission? AACC is now accepting applications. CEOs, vice presidents/vice chancellors, associate/assistant vice presidents/vice chancellors, and provosts from AACC member colleges are eligible to apply. Appointments range from 1 to 3 years. Commissions meet twice a year. The deadline to submit applications is May 1, 2019, by 5:00 p.m. (ET).
At the March 6 meeting of the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board, I met with Ivanka Trump, advisor to President Trump.
AACC staff and I met with representatives from the National Restaurant Association and its educational foundation on March 21. Pictured (L to R): Dawn Sweeney, president and CEO of the National Restaurant Association, Rob Gifford, executive vice president, Dr. Angel Royal, AACC chief of staff, Dr. Sue Crystal-Mansour, vice president of program, impact, and John Shortt, director of program development of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation.
On March 13, I was pleased to bring greetings to seven delegates from the U.S. Department of Higher Education and Training in South Africa visiting the AACC Office to learn more about U.S. community colleges. Pictured (l to r): Takalani Ratshilumela, Chief Director Human Resources Management & Development Gladys Mapheto, Motjatji Maila from the PSA Labour Relations Officer, Deputy Director of General Corporate Services Lulama Mbodbo, Liesl Rehbock, Joe Mashigo, Frans Ramonyhatse, and Wayne Wheeler (AACC).