AZ Communiversity | News

Rio Salado's Student Services Add to Student, Graduate Success!

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 18:16:00 +0000

Graduating from college is a major accomplishment. It marks a new chapter in life as students transition to professionals. But before they join the workforce, the graduates need to go through the not so-fun process of resume writing and interviewing. For some graduates, resume writing and interviewing are not a problem. For others, it can be a daunting task.

For all graduates and current students, help is available. "Just because a student has graduated it doesn't mean the door at the college has closed behind them," said Melaine Abts, faculty chair of Counseling at Rio Salado College. "Our student services are open to current students and graduates to help them with every aspect of career planning."

Every day, Rio Salado's counselors help people set personal, educational and career goals. Counselors are on hand to help students when they are experiencing obstacles that are interfering with their academic performance such as: lack of motivation, relationship issues, study skills, test anxiety, time management and stress. Additionally, the counselors are available to students and graduates when they need assistance with job-search skills, resume writing and interview preparation.

"We want students and graduates to be successful, and that means helping them with their resumes and preparing them for interviews, too." Abts said. "The counseling services at Rio Salado College are an integral part of the total educational process, and this includes after graduating, too."

For current and future students, Rio Salado offers three classes, which are geared toward helping students choose the career path that is right for them. "Whether you're new to college or online learning, we'll give you tips on how to be a successful student," Abts said. "We help develop study plans, identifying learning styles, and set personal and academic goals."

The Career Exploration class focuses on current occupational trends and outlooks and is designed to assist students as they make informed career decisions. Learn more about Rio Salado College at http://www.riosalado.edu/.

Source: Arizona Republic (November 2010).

Communiversity Gets Involved in New Economic Development Committee

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 18:13:00 +0000

As part of the Arizona Artists Guild's fall exhibition, which attracted 85 artists from 17 Arizona cities, an Award of Excellence went to Lawrence Carter, of Sun City West, and a Merit Award went to Jean Dibner, also of Sun City West. A Merchant's Award went to Woodard Mackie, of Surprise. The Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce will be making economic development one of its key areas of focus over the next year having just entered a multiyear service agreement with the city of Surprise.

The new economic development committee will be guiding the chamber's activities as it begins to play a more significant role in aiding its five constituent communities in growing the region's economic activity. The committee is made up of the following individuals: Bill Pupo, former city of Surprise City Manager, currently of Bill Pupo Consulting and chairman of the committee; Scott Phillips, vice president of Carefree Partners; Joe LaRue, president and CEO of Sun Health; John Harrington, CEO of Banner Del Webb Medical Center; Latonya Finch, regional manager of economic development for BNSF Railway; Todd Hornback, director of community life at DMB Associates; Dr. Todd Aakhus, director of Rio Salado Community College/Communiversity at Surprise; and Rich Marchant, vice president of operations for Crescent Crown Distributing.

For more information on the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce Economic Committee, contact David Moss at 623-583-0692. Information about the Communiversity @ Surprise, go to www.azcommuniversity.com.

Source: Sun City Independent Newspaper

Arizona Town Hall Set for Sept. 14

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 22:46:00 +0000

Scholarship Contest Deadline Nears

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 17:38:00 +0000

Rio Salado is sponsoring a scholarship contest to raise awareness about the importance of the "3Rs"of sustainability: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

The Art to the 3rd Power Sustainability Contest 2010 invites you, as a Rio Salado student, to enter a work of media or a piece of creative writing. Your entry should – in your own creative way – integrate the ideas of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. You may want to start with this question: how can we integrate sustainability and the 3Rs into our lives? How can we meet our needs today and still leave adequate resources for future generations?

Winning entries will be awarded up to a $800 scholarship to be used at Rio Salado College.

Deadline
Entry deadline is September 29, 2010.

We hope that you enjoy the creative process as you explore the important concept of sustainability. Best of luck with your entry!

Entering the Contest
Download the Student Sustainability Form and Rules.
Submit your entry and entry form via e-mail to: Shannon.Corona@riosalado.edu.
Entries not meeting guidelines and entry requirements will not be accepted.

Susan G. Komen Race Planning Meeting Set

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 20:56:00 +0000

Team captains or those planning to form a team for the Susan G. Komen Phoenix Race for the Cure on Oct. 10, are invited to learn more about the race and team planning on Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Rio Salado College Lifelong Learning Center Community Room, 12535 Smokey Drive in Surprise.
For those unable to attend, additional sessions will be added by Thursday at www.komenphoenix.org.

Information or to RSVP: teams@komenphoenix.org or 602-346-2873.

New Book Rental Program Can Cut Costs for Students

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 19:59:00 +0000

When it comes time to choosing books for their classes, students at the Maricopa Community Colleges now will have an expanded roster of options, including renting their texts, the colleges announced today.

The textbook rental program, called Rent-a-Text, means that instead of purchasing course material, Maricopa students can now rent popular titles at an average cost of about half the new book purchase price. Rent-a-Text is the latest cost-saving program offered by Follett’s Higher Education group, which manages bookstores on the Maricopa campuses.

“We’re committed to making education as affordable as possible,” said Maricopa Community Colleges Chancellor Rufus Glasper. “Giving students more textbook choices is an increasingly important part of that commitment.”

The colleges’ textbook rental program will:
• Be available to students in-store and online, with in-store pickup;
• Allow students to choose a preferred form of payment, including financial aid and credit and debit cards;
• Allow students the freedom to highlight and make notes within the normal wear and tear associated with coursework;
• Give students the choice to buy their textbook at the end of the term if they decide to keep the book.

Students can purchase new textbooks, but with the cost of some text exceeding $100, that can be an expensive option, even if the students plan to sell their books back to the bookstore. In many cases, they can reduce their initial outlay by purchasing used books. However, renting the text offers students the advantage of less expensive initial costs, without the worry of whether they will be able to sell their books back to the bookstore at the end of the semester.

In a related development, the colleges and Follett announced a new feature that will make it easier for Maricopa students to choose the right textbook for every class. Now, when a student signs up for a Maricopa course on the My.Maricopa.edu website, they will be shown the textbooks required for the class, along with the “ISBN” number of each textbook, as well as the various purchase options and costs available. This feature is being added in part to comply with a new federal law that requires that colleges and universities provide students with accurate course information, including textbook ISBN numbers and prices.

The Rent-a-Text program is based on a Follett pilot program that saved students at seven schools across the United States nearly $2 million on course materials in just one semester. Follett said that more than 90 percent of participants surveyed expressed satisfaction with the pilot program.

“We’ve been at the forefront of cost savings programs for more than a century,” said Thomas A. Christopher, President of Follett Higher Education Group. “Helping to reduce the costs of education is part of our mission, and we look forward to working with the Maricopa Community Colleges to deliver substantial textbook savings to students.”

Phoenix College Brings Healthcare Programs to Communiversity

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 21:07:00 +0000

90 Years of Educational Excellence, Now in the Northwest Valley: Phoenix College Brings Healthcare Programs to Communiversity @ Surprise

Northwest Valley residents interested in training for a healthcare career have a new option that’s close to home. Phoenix College has added three new healthcare certificate programs at the Communiversity @ Surprise, providing area residents with a convenient way to take advantage of the affordable tuition and expert faculty long associated with Phoenix College. The programs are Nurse Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding: Physician Based, and Medical Assisting.

The Nurse Assisting Program is designed to prepare students to work in the nursing field. Nurse Assistants work directly under the supervision of registered and practical nurses. Their role in performing basic patient care assists the licensed staff in providing quality nursing to the patient. As important members of a health care team, typical patient-care duties include bathing and dressing patients, helping with personal hygiene, taking vital signs, answering call lights, transporting patients, servicing and collecting food trays, and feeding patients. The Nurse Assisting runs for eight weeks and consists of two classroom days (four to six hours per day), and one or two, 8-12 hour clinical experience days per week. Nurse Assistants may seek employment opportunities in general care hospitals, clinics, hospices, and long-term care organizations.

The Nurse Assisting occupation is one of a series of possible steps on a career ladder in the health care field such as Patient Care Technician, Practical Nursing, Registered Nursing and advanced practice degrees. Successful graduates receive a certificate of completion from Phoenix College and are then eligible to take the Arizona State Board of Nursing (AZBN) certifying exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

The Medical Coding and Billing: Physician Based Program is designed to prepare students for billing and diagnostic/procedural coding in the practice environment. Coding is a process of assigning valid codes to represent patients’ health status and the services they receive. The codes are used primarily to determine the amount to be billed and for service monitoring. Medical Billers/Coders consistently ensure the reliability, validity and confidentiality of medical information. This program requires the successful completion of 34 credits which include theoretical and laboratory instruction as well as a professional practice affiliation in an area health care setting. Students can choose to pursue the program on a full-time or part-time basis. Graduates may seek employment opportunities in healthcare settings such as clinics, physician offices, managed care organizations, and private billing or insurance companies. Job titles typically include: Medical Biller/Coder, Medical Claims Processor, Medical Coder, and Health Record Coder. Employment in these areas requires communication with all members of the health care team including physicians and nurses. Graduates of this program may pursue national credentialing, as well as career ladder opportunities in Health Information Management.

The Medical Assisting Program is designed to prepare students to work as Medical Assistants, performing front and back office functions such as: medication administration, electrocardiograms, drawing blood, scheduling appointments, managing medical records, insurance billing and coding, communications, patient education, as well as assisting doctors with clinical procedures such as minor surgeries. The program runs approximately nine months with classes being held two to three days per week. The program includes externships in an outpatient laboratory and a medical office to demonstrate and enhance skills. Graduates may seek employment opportunities in physicians’ offices, community health centers, urgent care centers and select outpatient facilities. Career advancement opportunities include office manager, clinical team leader and research coordinator. Upon successful program completion, students are eligible to take the American Medical Technologists National medical assisting exam.

Phoenix College is a partner in the Communiversity @ Surprise, a new model of education in Arizona that provides students with the opportunity to complete certificates, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees all in one location. The innovative blending of community colleges and universities features six educational pathways offering multiple programs, including healthcare programs provided by Phoenix College.

Each of the educational pathways allows students to transfer seamlessly from one institution to another – from the community college to the university. Educational pathways include Business/Management, Education, Healthcare, Information Systems, Liberal Arts, and Public Safety.

Classes at the Communiversity @ Surprise are available online, in person, and in a hybrid format, and most are offered in flexible eight-week sessions. Students can save money on tuition by taking up to 90 credits – instead of the traditional 64 credits – through the community college partners before transferring to a university partner for the remaining credits.

The Communiversity @ Surprise, located in the new Civic Center Complex at 15950 W. Civic Center Plaza, is a unique educational partnership between private and public entities. In collaboration with the City of Surprise, host college Rio Salado has partnered with several institutions to provide classes and programs. The partners include: Phoenix College, Glendale Community College, Ottawa University, the University of the Incarnate Word, and West-MEC. For more information, visit www.azcommuniversity.com.

To learn more about training for a healthcare career with Phoenix College at the Communiversity @ Surprise, visit www.azcommuniversity.com or contact Caterina Pinzone, MHA, RHIA, Phoenix College Coordinator for Healthcare Programs at the Communiversity @ Surprise, at 480-384-9010. To learn more about additional Phoenix College programs, visit www.phoenixcollege.edu or call 602-285-7110.

Media Contact: Michelle Klinger
Coordinator of Marketing & PR(
602) 285-7842
michelle.klinger@pcmail.maricopa.edu

###

July Education Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 19:29:00 +0000

Arizona Education Consortium
Military, Veterans, Family & Community Education Fair

Saturday, July 17, 2010 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Communiversity @ Surprise
15950 N Civic Center Plaza
Surprise, AZ 85374
(623) 523-3226

Meet School Represenatives and get information on:
- Financial Aid
- VA Benefits
- Scholarships and Grants
- Degree and Career Options
- Admissions

www.azec.org

Communiversity Featured on MCTV Program

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Tue, 04 May 2010 17:14:00 +0000

The Communiversity @ Surprise was recently featured on MCTV's Enfoque En Tu Futuro program.

MCTV is a partnership between the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) and Cox Communication, and serves as the primary television media outlet for MCCCD.

To see more programs, please visit http://www.maricopa.edu/mctv/

Enter Rio's Sustainability Contest and Win a Scholarship

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Mon, 03 May 2010 21:40:00 +0000

Are you passionate about sustainability? Do you have creative talents? Enter the Art to the 3rd Power Sustainability Contest to win a Rio Salado scholarship!

Rio Salado students are encouraged to enter a work of creative writing or media that integrates the three “Rs” of sustainability: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

While submissions must be original works, how you address the three “Rs” is up to you, so get your creative juices flowing!

Three winning entries will be selected. Winners will receive Rio Salado scholarship vouchers of $350, $250 and $200 respectively. The deadline to enter is September 29, 2010.

For a list of the contest rules and an entry form click HERE.

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Mon, 03 May 2010 18:36:00 +0000

Rio Salado's Horticulture

Instructor Peter Conden recently visited Tram Mai and Mark Curtis at their homes to offer them gardening advice. A clip from the visit recently ran on Channel 12's Valley Dish program. Learn more about Peter's class, which is part of the Sustainable Food Systems program, at www.riosaldo.edu/food.

Surprise, Communiversity Share MAG Partnership Award

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 17:43:00 +0000

The City of Surprise and Rio Salado College’s Communiversity @ Surprise have earned a Desert Peaks Public/Private Partnership Award from the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG).

Located on the City Hall campus, the Communiversity @ Surprise brings together an occupational high school district, three community colleges and two universities in a single location. Communiversity students earn a variety of certificates or two and four year degrees. Graduate courses are also available, as are workforce development and high-school technical programs.

“This partnership supports the City Council’s goal of increasing higher education opportunities in Surprise,” says Interim City Manager Mark Coronado. “Educational opportunities make our City more competitive in attracting new businesses and jobs.”

“TheCommuniversity @ Surprise offers a new model for higher education," said Dr. Chris Bustamante, the Interim President at Rio Salado College. "Rio Salado College’s partnership with the City of Surprise is very innovative, and we are proud of this. We are the first community college in the United States to be located on a City Center. The Communiversity @ Surprise allows us to reach out to the community and offer higher education programs and pathways along with our educational partners. We are excited that students in the Surprise Region now have many higher education options available to them.”

The Communiversity @ Surprise opened in August 2009 and is already a national model for how public-private partnerships produce new and affordable educational opportunities. The 26,000 square foot Communiversity building was originally planned as the site for City Council Chambers and offices, but design changes led to an opportunity to create the innovative space, which includes “smart” classrooms and interactive counseling kiosks. The $8.5 million construction cost was paid by the City and later reimbursed by Maricopa Rio Salado College bond funds.

The City and the Communiversity jointly sponsor annual educational and community events at the City Hall campus, including the Surprise Youth Leadership Program and the recent Luke Air Force Base EIS hearings.

MAG’s annual Desert Peaks Awards “recognize individuals and partnerships that have demonstrated a commitment to regionalism through their cooperative efforts. By working together, local governments can solve common problems, proactively address concerns that affect all communities, and produce impressive results that strengthen both individual communities and the region.”

The award will be presented at MAG’s Desert Peaks Banquet in Phoenix on June 30.

Scholarships available

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 17:43:00 +0000

There are nearly 50 scholarships available for the 2010 – 2011 academic year for new and continuing students. The dealine for most scholarships is April 9.

The TriWest Military Scholarship deadline for the summer I 2010 term is May 1, 2010.

The TriWest Military Scholarship is available to service members in the active, reserve, or guard component of any U.S. military service branch or spouses/dependants of service members.

To learn more or to apply for a scholarship, please click HERE.

Additional questions may be directed to Kala Weinacker at 480.731.8407.

Registration underway for Youth Leadership Summit

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 22:26:00 +0000

Surprise and Dysart Unified School District sophomores, juniors, and seniors wishing to develop leadership skills are encouraged to register for the Second Annual Surprise Youth Leadership Summit, March 26.

Surprise Mayor Lyn Truitt will kick off the summit, featuring Congressman Trent Franks, Chamber President David Moss and former teacher and motivational speaker Justin Boudreau. This is an opportunity for high school leaders to expand their skills and knowledge base by interacting with these leaders and learning their tips for success.

The free one-day summit will be held on Friday, March 26, at the Communiversity @ Surprise, on the Surprise City Hall Campus, from 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The summit is designed to encourage more young people to become engaged in their community and develop civic leadership skills and informational tables representing a broad range of opportunities will be on display.

The Summit is just the starting point for a larger Surprise Youth Leadership Program slated to launch in the coming months in an effort to embrace the enthusiasm of these ambitious young leaders.

Summit registration forms are due Friday, March 19. Forms can be picked up at the Community & Recreation Services Office, 15960 N. Bullard Avenue, or downloaded online at www.surpriseaz.com/recreation. There is limited space for this engagement. Early registration is recommended.

The summit is presented by the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce; APS; Dysart USD; Rio Salado College; the Communiversity @ Surprise; and the City of Surprise.

For more information, please contact Donna Miller at 623.222.2218 or donna.miller@surpriseaz.gov.

Two Named to All-Arizona Academic Team

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 14:49:00 +0000

By David Staudacher, Rio Salado College PR Manager

Thomas Edison once said, “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”

Rio Salado College students Katherine Robinson, of Tempe, and Amber Jensen, of Phoenix, are two people who work hard in the classroom, and, due to their strong work ethics, have earned the opportunity of a lifetime.

On Thursday, Robinson and Jensen were named to the All-Arizona Academic Team during an awards celebration at Mesa Community College.

“We are honored to have these two students represent Rio Salado College,” said Rio Salado Interim President Chris Bustamante. “They are outstanding students who have shown a passionate commitment for education and their community.”

Robinson was named to the first-team, and was awarded a cash prize of $1,000 and a full two-year renewable scholarship at one of Arizona’s three state universities.
Robinson earned her spot on the first team by maintaining a 3.93 grade-point average (GPA), earning 57 credits, and participating in a variety of college and community activities. Her activities include: Vice President of Leadership for the Alpha Theta Omicron Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa; editor and writer for The Alpha Theta Omicron Alpha Bits; student coordinator of a Beautification and Community Garden Program; and a victim response member for Pandora’s Project.

As a member of the first team, she also is a candidate for the All-USA team, which will be announced in April. If named to the team, Robinson could win an additional $2,500 and be featured in the USA Today newspaper.

Jensen was named to the second team and received a $750 cash prize and a full two-year renewable scholarship at one of Arizona’s three state universities.

Jensen, who plans to transfer to Northern Arizona University, earned her spot on the team by maintaining a 3.8 GPA, earning 127 credits, and being active at Rio Salado and in the community. She used the skills she has been learning at Rio Salado’s School of Dental Hygiene by volunteering as a hygienist at the Central Arizona Shelter Services, the Dave Pratt Boys and Girls Club, and at the Give Kids a Smile for elementary school students. She also served as a member of the AmeriCorps Project Ayuda where she provided dental hygiene care for special needs patients.

“I am privileged to volunteer my services as a dental hygiene student at the Central Arizona Shelter Services clinic for the homeless,” said Jensen. “Not only am I able to practice technical skills I have learned, but I recognize the impact I can have on someone’s life through my education.”

The All-Arizona Academic Team scholarships are offered every year to two students from each of the state’s community colleges. To qualify, students must have earned a high grade point average and many credits in different academic disciplines at Rio Salado College, be working toward an associate degree, and be an active participant in service learning activities such as block watch participation, charity organizations, political organizations, religious groups and other community groups.

For more information about scholarship opportunities at Rio Salado College, please visit www.riosalado.edu/financial_aid.

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 23:04:00 +0000

The Communiversity @ Surprise was recently featured on the January edition of Maricopa Now!

Dr. Chris Bustamante Named Interim President at Rio Salado College

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 20:04:00 +0000

Maricopa Community Colleges Chancellor Rufus Glasper today announced the appointment of Dr. Chris Bustamante as the Interim President of Rio Salado College. Bustamante replaces Dr. Linda Thor, recently named Chancellor of the Foothill-De Anza Community College District, effective Feb. 16, 2010.

The appointment of Bustamante, who has served as the college’s Vice President of Community Development and Student Services since 2006, becomes effective upon Dr. Thor’s departure.

“Dr. Bustamante is well qualified to assume this prominent position,” said Dr. Glasper. “He possesses substantial leadership credentials in education and has an extensive track record of forging partnerships within the community. Specifically, he was instrumental in the collaborative development of the Arizona Communiversity concept, which recently opened its first site — the Communiversity @ Surprise.”

The appointment marks the first change in the college’s leadership in two decades. Under Thor’s nearly 20-year tenure, the college became nationally acclaimed for its innovations as a leading provider of online learning, as well as for its customized partnerships with business and government entities. “We congratulate President Thor on these and many other accomplishments, and we wish her every success as she transitions to this prestigious new role at one of the nation’s premier community college districts,” said Glasper.

Bustamante’s considerable other successes since joining Rio Salado as Dean of Academic Affairs in 2004 include:

Oversight of the largest dual enrollment program in both the Maricopa District and all of Arizona, currently serving nearly 7,000 students annually through 54 partnering high schools

Oversight of eight major capital projects for Rio Salado, including the building of the $4 million Adult Learning Center in the City of Avondale

The launching of Rio’s Adult ACE and Puente ACE Programs that enroll more than 150 students annually

Establishment of a partnership with the Phoenix Elementary School District to reopen Ann Ott Elementary School as an Adult Learning Center

Prior to his Rio career, Bustamante served the Maricopa Community College District as Director of Government Relations & External Affairs, and also held positions as Director of State Relations and the Associate Director of Government Relations. He began his Maricopa career in 1992.

Prior to working for the MCCCD, Bustamante served as the Assistant to the Superintendent for Community Relations for the Phoenix Union High School District. Bustamante also served as a Legislative Aide in the Arizona House of Representatives from 1984-1987.

Bustamante was a member of Maricopa’s Executive Development Program (2008), the Leadership Fellows Program of the National Community College Hispanic Council (2005), and was appointed by Governor Jane D. Hull to serve on Arizona’s Merit Award System Board and served as its Chairman (2002-2004). He currently serves on the Advisory Board of Experience Matters, as Honorary Commander at Luke Air Force Base (Alumnus), as an Advisory member for the REF Fund, Arizona Community Foundation, and as a Board member for the Be A Leader Foundation. He is a former member of the Task Force for the National State Relations Conference (Chair, 2004). Bustamante also served as the community college presidents’ staff liaison to the Governor’s Task Force on Higher Education (2000).

Bustamante received his Doctorate and Master’s degrees in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University (NAU). He also attended Pima Community College and Harvard University, and graduated from the University of Arizona in 1983 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration/Finance. He currently serves as an Adjunct Professor for NAU in the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership Program/Maricopa cohort.

New Program Allows High-schoolers to Start College Early

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:33:00 +0000

For the first time, high school students can earn a certificate in dental assisting, said Nicole Albo, who chairs the dental program for Rio Salado College, one of the Communivesity partners. Read more.

Communiversity Named Best of the West

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:49:00 +0000

On Thursday night, the Communiversity @ Surprise was named a Best of the West award winner for higher education. The Best of the West awards recognize outstanding contributions to the image, lifestyle and economic development of the West Valley.

See a complete list of winners and slide show HERE.

Communiversity, City Celebrate Grand Opening

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 23:16:00 +0000

Last week, the Communiversity @ Surprise partners and the City of Surprise hosted a grand-opening celebration with a ribbon cutting and building dedication in the courtyard between the Communiversity and the City Hall, 15950 W. Civic Center Plaza, Surprise.

The program included remarks from Rio Salado College President Linda Thor, Surprise Mayor Lyn Truitt and guest dignitaries, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and guided tours of the new facilities.

The event was broadcast live on Surprise 11. The event can be viewed online by clicking HERE.

Rio Salado Named America’s Greenest Campus

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 23:24:00 +0000

Rio Salado College has been named America’s Greenest Campus by Climate Culture for having the highest average of carbon reduction per person. The college also was awarded $5,000 to be put toward green initiatives.

Rio Salado College beat out nearly 500 colleges and universities across the country in the America’s Greenest Campus (AGC) contest, which started in April. All of the participating schools combined to save $4.5 million in energy costs and reduce their collective carbon output by 18.6 million pounds, which is equivalent to the annual amount of carbon emitted by 1,900 cars.

In effect, the award recognizes Rio Salado for having the smallest carbon footprint among all the entrants. Rio Salado’s official carbon footprint, as documented for the American College and Universities Presidents Climate Commitment, is .84 tons of C02e.

The miniscule footprint is the result of Rio Salado’s efficient learning formats, which include 550 online courses, in-person classes on-site at corporations and government agencies, and accelerated formats.America's Greenest Campus is the first nationwide contest among colleges to reduce the carbon footprints of their students, faculty, alumni and staff.

AGC partners include Climate Culture, SmartPower, Sierra Student Coalition, National Association of Environmental Law Societies and U.S. Department of Energy.

“Environmental viability is part of the culture at our college,” said Rio Salado President Linda Thor. “We want to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.”

Rio Salado College is planning to use the money to help fund the Community Garden Project at its main campus, 2323 W. 14th St., Tempe. The community garden will be open to Rio Salado students pursuing a degree or certificate in its Sustainable Foods Program and Rio Salado employees. Food from the garden will be used in the Café @ Rio.

Classes will emphasize the movement toward sustainable food systems, including researching food sources, purchasing locally, and building relationships with local producers. As students progress through the program, they will complete fundamental culinary course work, focus on real food and prepare for hands-on learning experiences in the Café. The Café will work toward a goal of zero-waste.

To learn more about Rio Salado's efforts, click HERE.

Rio Salado, guests offering workshops at Going Green Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:30:00 +0000

Communiversity @ Surprise partners hosting open house

On Saturday, Oct. 17, the Communiversity @ Surprise is taking part in the City of Surprise’s second annual Going Green Fair by hosting an educational fair and offering green workshops. Rio Salado College is presenting two free workshops, while AKA Green and APS will each present a workshop. (See below for current workshop details).

To register for Rio Salado or APS workshops, call 480.384.9001 or visit the Communiversity at 15950 W. Civic Center Plaza, Surprise. To register for the AKA Green workshop, please visit www.akagreen.com/workshop.php

During the fair, the Communiversity @ Surprise partners — Rio Salado College, Phoenix College, Glendale Community College, Ottawa University, University of the Incarnate Word, and Western International University — will have representatives available to help perspective students learn about classes and degree pathways offered at the site.

1. Green Home Remodeling 101 (Offered by AKA Green)
Are you thinking of remodeling a portion of your home or still have part of that kitchen left to do? This workshop is for you — homeowners who have heard about green building and want to know how it relates to home improvement projects they plan to undertake.
This two-hour workshop is a survey course that covers green building concepts as a homeowner can apply them to minor or major home renovations. Concepts covered include basic building envelope principles (energy), materials, indoor air quality, materials re-use and recycling, energy conservation and water conservation. Includes lessons learned from a.k.a. Green partner Mick Dalrymple’s documented ongoing efforts to turn a 1975 home into an eco-friendly, family-friendly, Net-Zero Energy Home through remodeling.
Presenter: Mick Dalrymple, AKA Green
Time: 10 a.m. – noon
Cost: $39 per person ($70 for two people)

2. Bringing Sustainable Gardening Home (Offered by Rio Salado College)
· What is sustainable gardening and why should I care? Time for a paradigm shift.
· Sustainable vs. organic (there’s a difference?)
· Soil management comes first (don’t treat your soil like dirt)
· Composting can be sexy
· Building raised beds with recycled/reused materials
· Growing vegetables and flowers together(companion planting) for pest resistance and beauty
· Proper water usage (we have a drinking problem).
Presenter: Peter Conden, Rio Salado Community College
Time: 1 – 2 p.m.
Cost: FREE

3. We Are What We Eat (Offered by Rio Salado College)
There is a new movement in the food industry, which is to re-think how we produce, purchase and consume our food.
· Why this new shift?
· Is our current food system sustainable?
· What are the best choices for me and my family?
· How can I make these changes and still enjoy my favorite foods?
· This session will address these questions and provide an overview of the process from “seed to supper.”
Presenter: Shannon Corona, Rio Salado Community College
Time: 9 – 10 a.m.
Cost: FREE

4. Simple Things To Do To Lower Energy Bills (Offered by APS)
Wondering how to lower your energy bill? Curious about how solar energy works or if it's something you should consider for your home? Rex Stepp, of the Renewable Energy group at APS, will be presenting information on simple things you can do today to lower your energy costs as well as discussing how to take advantage of Arizona's 300 days of sunshine with today's solar technology. Along with discussing various ways to use solar energy, you'll also learn about the great incentives and tax credits currently available that can cover well over half the cost of going solar.
Presenter: Rex Stepp, APS
Time: Noon to 1 p.m.
Cost: FREE

Communiversity on Ch. 3

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:07:00 +0000

Receive a Tax Credit While Earning College Credit

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:45:00 +0000

By David Staudacher, Rio Salado PR Manager

Attention college students! Start saving your school receipts. Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act's (ARRA) newly-created American Opportunity Tax Credit, college students and their parents may be eligible for more tax credits.

"The amount of the credit is higher," said Eric Smith, media relations specialist at the Internal Revenue Service. "It now goes up to $2,500 per student. So, that is definitely an increase, and to get that maximum credit of $2,500, you need to spend $4,000 on qualifying expenses. That's mainly tuition and fees, but it can also include books."

The American Opportunity Credit is good for the first four years of school, which is twice as long as the old Hope Credit, which was good for the first two years. There are additional changes that benefit students and parents.

"The income limits have been raised for the American Opportunity Credit," said Smith. "There are some people who didn't qualify under the old law who now qualify under the new law. Also, there's a change for people with lower incomes. That is to say you can get the American Opportunity Credit even if you owe no tax, and that wasn't true with the old Hope Credit. For someone who doesn’t owe tax, they cannot get the full $2,500. Instead, it is capped at $1,000, which is major improvement considering they couldn’t receive anything under the old law."

According to Smith, students and their parents must file a tax return to get the credit. Pointing out that often it is better for the parent to claim the credit instead of the student.

"It may depend on who’s paying the cost," said Smith. "The key here is that students and parents shouldn’t leave this money lying on the table."

For people who need the money sooner rather than later there is a way to benefit now.

"You still have to claim it when you file your return next year, but the actual benefit or the tax savings, you can get at least some of that now," said Smith. "If you're working and you have tax taken out of your paycheck. You can actually reduce the amount of withholding that you have based on the credit that you expect to be able to claim."

To figure out how much of a credit someone can receive, visit www.irs.gov and use the withholding calculator, which will help determine if you qualify. If someone qualifies, they need to give their employer a new W-4 form and have less tax taken out of their paychecks.

Another new benefit, which is only available for 2009 and 2010, is using money from college savings plans. Money from these plans can be used to pay for computers, internet services, etc. A number of rules and restrictions apply, and contact a plan administrator for more information is highly suggested.

To learn more about Rio Salado College and the financial aid opportunities available, please visit http://www.riosalado.edu.

Enrollment nears record level at Glendale CC campuses

noreply@blogger.com (Rio Salado College) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 21:23:00 +0000

A bumper crop of new students has signed up for classes at Glendale Community College's two campuses. Read more.