Vol State Virtual Community Volunteer State Community College

Human Sex Trafficking: Fact Not Fiction

2009-11-12T08:00:00.002-06:00

Movies touch on subjects that you can usually shrug off as just being a movie. When you find out, however, that such horrors actually do happen, it makes you think a bit harder.

Nicholas Kristof, two time Pulitzer Prize winner and author of “Half the Sky: Turning Oppression Into Opportunity for Women Worldwide,” came to Vol State and told of such horrors he has witnessed in his career as a journalist.

Kristof touched on the subjects of gender inequality and human sex trafficking. “There are more females in the U.S. and Europe than men, but in the world as a whole there are more males. Every year two million girls die do to lethal gender discrimination,” said Kristof. He said that women are considered disposable. “From ages one to five girls are more likely to die than boys. Women and girls aren’t the problem, they are the solution,” Kristof said.

Kristof tells of the thirteen year old girl who got sold into slavery. The image of the smiling girl with one eye is shown. “She got her eye gouged out because she resisted,” said Kristof. As image after image of girls went up on the screen, it became apparent that these are real people, and not actors in a movie scene. “800,000 people are trafficked across the border a year,” Kristof said.

“I did something a few years ago that raised a few eyebrows in journalistic circles. I bought two girls. One sold for $150 and the other just over $200. I took the two girls back to their families,” Kristof said after explaining that he found out that the mother of one of the girls couldn’t afford to buy her daughter back from the brothel after she had been kidnapped. This example really explains the lack of worth that is put on women and girls in several countries worldwide.

“One of the main questions asked is, ‘why poverty?’ People tend to have the perception that this is a depressing field. What is depressing to me is when I come back and I find that new cars and the latest cell phone is what the main worry is,” said Kristof.

“People may ask, ‘why should I care?’ If you’ve seen the girl with her eye gouged out, then you won’t ask. One thing that does change our base level of happiness is to find a cause to give back. The fact that we are all in here right now means that we all won the lottery at birth,” said Kristof to the listeners in the room.

“We list organizations on the site and in the back of the book for those that want to volunteer,” said Kristof. For those who would like to educate themselves on human trafficking and other causes mentioned in Kristof’s book, go to http://halftheskymovement.org/.

Volunteer State Community College

Help for the Mathematically Challenged

2009-11-11T08:30:00.001-06:00

Pictures of algebraic equations can be fun and intellectually stimulating for some, but for others can easily be a nightmare.

This is where the Vol State math and science lab tutors can offer assistance for those that struggle for whatever reason in math, science, and statistics. The list can go on just as surely as the numbers go into infinity on a number line.

I am one of those students who always struggled in math. From the time I was in the first grade, adding and subtracting was hard, then the struggle with long division, fractions, and so forth. I am currently trying to get through Elementary Algebra, and thanks to the math lab and an understanding professor I think I am finally making strides.

Students should feel free to ask questions in class without worrying about feeling unintelligent. The only stupid question is one that you already know the answer to. Often times in classes, student disruptions can hinder the understanding of the concept that one may already be struggling to grasp.

Bill Smith, Director of the Math and Science Lab said, “It is to assist students in math and science classes. It gives preparation for tests, and helps them succeed in their classes.” Smith said he has been employed with Vol State for close to fifteen years. Smith also added that students who are taking online classes and have online homework can use the resources offered in the math and science lab.

“Students who regularly come usually get the grade they want in their class. We have an average of two helpers per time period. We have a couple of student tutors and then we have faculty members who spend some of their office hours in here,” said Smith.

“I am studying statistics. That is why I am passing my classes,” said student, Gatluak Chuol of his experience in the math lab.

The math and science lab is located in the Warf building room 123. Hours are Monday-Thursday 8am -6pm; Fridays 8am-4pm; and on the second Saturday of the month from 8am-2pm.

Volunteer State Community College

No Needles Required!

2009-11-10T08:30:00.000-06:00

Gone are the days when you had to wait a month to get your HIV test results back.

On Monday November 16, from 9am to 11am, Dwayne Jenkins from Nashville Cares will speak about the World AIDS Epidemic and covering everything from breaking the stereotypes with HIV/AIDS to those it can affect.

Stacy Jones, President of Phi Theta Kappa, said, “Phi Theta Kappa requires you to do projects. It is the two-year college national honor society. This year is 'The Paradox of Affluence: Choices, Challenges, and Consequences.' We wanted to do something that can affect everybody. That is why we decided as a group to cover HIV/AIDS.” HIV doesn’t discriminate. “It can affect anyone from babies, to rich, to poor, young and old. We hope to dispel some of the stereotypes,” said Jones.

The first thirty people who want to have confidential HIV testing will be able to do so on Monday November 16. “It is first come, first serve. There will be no needles, and it is done with a swab in the mouth with results being given in approximately twenty minutes. Safe sex kits will be given as well. These include condoms, how to use them, and also tips on promoting abstinence,” said Jones.

Student Joey Corso said, “I think it is a good idea for people to find out if they are sick. Finding out in twenty minutes is great. The quicker you find out, the better you feel without having to wait a whole month.” Shannon Ross, student, said of the testing Vol State will be doing on November 16, “It is wonderful. We offered the swab testing where I used to work at Pathfinders, a rehab center.”

This event will be in the Rochelle center of the library.

Photo courtesy of mcrrfoundation.org

Volunteer State Community College

Travel Study Info Meetings

2009-11-09T13:10:00.003-06:00

Are you interested in Travel Study?

Students who want to participate in the 2010 TnCIS Study Abroad Programs must attend one of the sessions below. Information about application details, eligibility, scholarship assistance, how the programs operate will be provided. The sessions will last less than 1 hour.

Students can attend either:
Tuesday, November 17th, 2:30 P.M. – Mattox 104
Friday, November 20th, 2:00 P.M. - Mattox 104
Monday, November 23rd, 5:15 P.M. Mattox 104 (This session will conclude in time for 6:00 P.M. classes)

For more info about Travel Study visit: http://www.volstate.edu/International/?ref=az

Or contact: John Espey, Academic Dean, Business Division
Chairman, International Education Committee
Ann Marie Ruttenbur, Academic Assistant for International Education

Nicholas Kristof Presentation

2009-11-09T12:04:00.003-06:00

Oppression and the global challenges for women are topics that are of concern. Two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, and New York Times Columnist, Nicholas D. Kristof is honoring the campus of Vol State with his presence.

Kristof wrote the book “Half the Sky” with his wife Sheryl Wudunn, also a Pulitzer Prize winner.

Kristof will be at Vol State November 10, at 7pm and Wednesday November 11, at 11:30am. Both presentations will be in the auditorium at Caudill Hall. The event is free and everyone is welcome.

Volunteer State Community College

A Disaster for High School Counselors

2009-11-06T10:57:00.013-06:00

What's the best way to show high school guidance counselors a bit of what we do in Allied Health at Vol State? Give them a disaster...or a disaster drill anyway. The fire trucks came rumbling in, lights flashing and sirens whooping. One poor young lady suffered from a broken leg and another fellow cradled a busted arm, blood rolling down his forehead. The drill simulated a chemistry lab explosion and patients were laid out in the grass behind the Wallace Building.

About 23 high school counselors are attending the Annual Counselors Luncheon today. Each year the folks in Admissions put together a fun, engaging event to show off the academic programs at Vol State.

"The goal is for the counselors to learn something about what we do at the college," said Tim Amyx, Director of Admissions and College Registrar. "But we also want them to learn something for themselves."

The Gallatin Fire Department, Sumner County EMS, Nashville Fire Department and Vanderbilt Lifeflight out of Lebanon all helped with the drill. The counselors had a chance to put on the heavy fire turnout gear, breathe with an air tank and try to control a twisting fire hose. They helped splint a leg and bandage a head. Many of the counselors had smiles on their faces as they got to live out a childhood dream or two.

The event was also a chance for Vol State Building Coordinators and CERT team members to get some extra observation. While this event was educational, the college holds drills and simulations to prepare for emergency response.

The finale was a landing by the Vanderbilt Lifeflight helicopter. They touched down in the field behind the college and showed off equipment inside the chopper.

It was a nice day for a disaster and a good experience for all. We hope the counselors will be able to relive a bit of the excitement for their students in coming years. And we know that a drill on a sunny day is one thing, and what first responders like EMTs and Fire Fighters experience every day is something else entirely. We thank them for their dedication and hard work.

The Wise Dreamer

2009-11-06T08:30:00.002-06:00

It has been said that wisdom comes with age. At age 67, Helen McBride has decided to embrace her dream of finishing her education.

I met McBride in my Journalism Technology class here at Vol State, and she has a very positive attitude and outlook on life. “I lost my husband July 2007, so there was no reason for me not to finish my education. I got married at age 17, and I had my first son two weeks before I turned 19. I was married for forty seven years.” said McBride.

“I got my G.E.D. May 17, 2008, and I started college in the fall of 2008. I want to be a writer of children’s stories, and I want to help children reach their dreams and go for it. I’ve started several stories I’ve never completed,” said McBride.

McBride has four grandchildren and said she loves spending time with them. “I like to write and talk to my oldest grandson, age 14. We have an excellent relationship. I push him towards music; my late husband was a musician and had distant relatives to Hank Williams, Sr.” she said. McBride said that her oldest grandson loves music, and being an advocate for reaching for your dreams, this is one of the reasons she supports him in this.

McBride has had many traveling opportunities. “I have been to Greece, Rome, and Jerusalem. I was in D.C. when President Dwight D. Eisenhower was inaugurated. I was six, and I saw no reason for me to be there,” said McBride with a laugh.

McBride has a vision and a goal. The fact that she has the drive to do this shows great character. She said, “The dream never dies, only the dreamer.” That sounds like the making of a great story.

Volunteer State Community College

Interested in EMS? Read This...

2009-11-05T10:07:00.003-06:00

Emergency Medical Services is one of our most popular areas of study here at Vol State. There is quite a bit involved if you want to be an EMS student. Anyone interested in taking EMS classes in the spring semester needs to attend a special advising session. You can pick the date.

November 30 11am
December 7 11am and 6pm
December 21 11am and 6pm
January 6 11am and 6pm

These sessions are mandatory for all incoming EMT students and usually last 1 hour each. The sessions provide information on the required background check, physical exams, TB skin tests, and lab work. The students will be given the documents to be prepared for the first day of Spring classes.

Visit the EMS web page at www.volstate.edu/EMT or call them at 230-3346.

Volunteer State Community College

SEEK to Be Challenged

2009-11-04T12:38:00.006-06:00

Complex thinking is being implemented in Vol State classes with the SEEK (Solutions in Enriched Experiences and Knowledge) program.

Recently, Vol State had a challenge for students as well as faculty and staff to introduce this new program of critical thinking techniques. Lita Miller is the student winner. “The reason I liked the SEEK challenge is because I like to push myself. That’s the reason I have a 4.0. I had a blast! I got to run all over campus finding the missing numbers for the last challenge,” said Miller.

Miller was the overall student winner as she won three of the challenges. She won fifteen free meals to use at the campus cafeteria. First Choice Foods was the sponsor and Paul Fields presented the prizes.

Keith Bell, Associate Professor of Geography and Holly Nimmo Office Supervisor in the PR office, won for the faculty and staff. They each received five free meals in the cafeteria.

“We had a wide variety of students to play. We had online students, students from the Livingston campus, and dual enrollment,” said Laura Black, Assistant Professor of English/Director of the Language Center.

“We began SEEK as a part of the reaccreditation for SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools). We decided to focus on critical thinking and problem solving skills. We will be working on critical thinking for the next five years,” Black said. Black said that three courses are running pilot courses, and include English 1010, Math 1530, and Psychology 101.

Volunteer State Community College

Small and Fast Makes for Competition

2009-11-03T14:07:00.004-06:00

Vol State is embracing the thrill of a piece of plastic that can travel at speeds up to 60 mph, and spin as fast as 9,000 resolutions per minute.

Ron Timberlake, Associate Professor of Health and Physical Education is directing Vol State’s first open table tennis tournament. “This is the first year and hopefully the first of many. A lot of people have shown interest, and we are hoping to have between 60 and 100 participants,” said Timberlake.

Timberlake said that he started playing table tennis when he was about 13 years of age. “I’ve been playing for about 47 years, and I still use my 1972 model paddle. I have been in about five or six tournaments,” said Timberlake.

“There are four age categories which are 8-12, 13-17, 18+, and seniors 55+. Prizes will be provided by Newgy Table Tennis. The event will be on Saturday, November 14, and we would like everyone to register by November 11, but you can register at the door,” said Timberlake. Doors will open at 8:30 am and the event will take place from 10 am until 3 pm. There is a ten dollar registration fee that includes a T-Shirt and a Pong Pack provided by, Newgy Robo-Pong. The tournament will be in the Vol State Gymnasium in Pickel Field House.

Vol State now offers a table tennis class for credit. “Newgy Table Tennis has donated eight tables and all of the equipment for the table tennis class, PHED 1110, which will be offered again in the spring,” said Timberlake.

For more information about signing up for the tournament, email Ron Timberlake at ron.timberlake@volstate.edu or call (615)230-3245.

Volunteer State Community College

Virtually Fresh

2009-11-02T11:58:00.003-06:00

Vol State’s new website brings a fresh look and feel to the college’s virtual world.

Derek Pennycuff is Vol State’s onsite webmaster. “The new website has been a work in progress for two years,” said Pennycuff. “I tried to approach it from the point of view as a current or potential student because if I do something that is hard for a faculty member, I’m going to hear from them. I don’t hear from students as often. Student needs come first,” said Pennycuff.

Pennycuff said, “The biggest changes are going to be the way things are organized. The idea is that anyone can pick which user category you belong to.” The user categories are located on the left hand side of the new website’s main page. Whether you are a current student, parent, or member of the staff or faculty, it is categorized so that you can easily find what you need.

Why did it take two years to get everything up and running? “Part of the reason is because the hard drive had the equivalent of 22 copies worth of text of the ‘Complete Works of Shakespeare’ that had to be deleted. We have removed junk code, etc. This new site is simplified in every way. It is a cleaner site,” said Pennycuff.

Links at the bottom of the page can be found, and link directly to Vol State’s Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace pages, and the blog.

Check it out for yourself: www.volstate.edu

Volunteer State Community College

Brraaaaiiiinnnnsss!!!!

2009-10-30T13:42:00.011-05:00

Zombies have invaded the campus of Vol State.

The Student Government Association (SGA) and the Dungeons and Dragons Club decided to celebrate Halloween with a new zombie walk. “It is a fun and new way to celebrate Halloween and get students involved,” said Maytee Vinces.

Aaron Doyka said, “It is also to get people to see parts of campus that they wouldn’t normally see.” This event was not exclusive to students alone. Associate Professor of French and English, Kay Grossberg donned zombie threads and said, “I love Halloween!”

On the other side of campus, the College Republicans hosted a Halloween party. Amy Mitchell, President of the College Republicans said the reason for the event is to get clubs involved, and get more students excited about the clubs. Former WVCP D.J. Justin Fernandes said, “I’m helping Amy out working as a D.J.”

Students seemed to be having fun. “It’s very well decorated. A lot of tape and patience went into this,” said Jarod Moore. “It’s cool!” said Michelle Wynne.

Terry Bubb, Director of the Advising Center, said “I’m officially a freak. The theme for the advising center is ‘Freaks and Geeks.’”

Halloween isn’t just for children anymore. There are a lot of ways for adults to plug in and get involved even on a college campus between classes. Have a safe and happy Halloween!

Volunteer State Community College

Halloween Plans

2009-10-29T08:30:00.000-05:00

I’ve always thought Halloween was a fun holiday, and wanted to see what Vol State students were doing this year.

For some, taking the kiddos trick or treating is a yearly tradition. This is something that I always do. This year my daughter is going as Wonder Woman and wanted me to join her. This should be interesting!

Student Heather Lewis is taking her daughters Ramona age 2, and Hazel, 6 months old trick or treating. “We are going to Columbia, Tenn. Because we have family there. My two year old is going to be a fairy, and my 6 month old is going as a flower,” said Lewis.

Other students are hitting the parties for some fun in costume. Amy Mitchell, President of the College Republicans said, “I’m going to a party and dressing up as a vampire.” Zelphia Minton said, “I’m going to be a black kitty cat.” Alex Rice is dressing up as a Black Eyed Pea. “Not the group, but an actual black-eyed pea,” said Rice. “I’m also looking for Edward Cullen,” Rice said with a laugh.

Future student and cafeteria employee Harold Myers is also celebrating Halloween. “I’m going to a couple of parties, and going as K.I.S.S. member Gene Simmons,” Myers said.

Volunteer State Community College

Understanding Asperger's Syndrome

2009-10-28T12:10:00.004-05:00

Asperger’s Syndrome may be closer to home than you think.

“October is Disability Awareness month. Each year we focus on a different theme, and this year we want to focus on Asperger’s Syndrome. It coincides with the increase in numbers of the diagnosis of Autism,” said Jason McAlexander, Accommodations Coordinator for Disability Services at Vol State.

“There are a lot of different characteristics within the Autism spectrum. There are more students with Asperger’s Syndrome who are going to college. Asperger’s Syndrome is a high functioning form of Autism, and the purpose of the presentation is to inform so that people don’t pre-judge,” said McAlexander.

“Asperger’s is a disability that comes with social awkwardness. Social awkwardness affects communication and the interaction with others. Disability Rights is a civil rights struggle, and we are trying to decrease those barriers that people have between us and them,” McAlexander said.

When speaking of those with Asperger’s Syndrome, McAlexander said, “They are discovering that they can be successful in the work force.” He talks about the Absent-Minded Professor, and the thought process that what used to be thought of as quirks is now sometimes diagnosed as Asperger’s Syndrome.

On October 29 and 30 everyone may attend the presentation in the Rochelle Center in the library from 1 to 2 p.m.

Volunteer State Community College

Just Ask!

2009-10-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Everyone has something to say these days. The SGA forum was a great way to get questions answered and your student voice heard.

The turnout was rather good, with students and faculty both in attendance. Questions ranged from IT issues to the possibility of Vol State going green.

Amy Mitchell is the president of the Vol State Republicans and asked why certain students are allowed to park in staff parking while others have to fight for a space. “Students such as the SGA president have staff parking privileges because they do extra service for the college,” said Patty Powell, Vice President of Student Services. “It is our intention to get another paved parking lot where the modular classrooms used to be, to add more parking,” said Vol State President Dr. Warren Nichols.

Students were encouraged to leave questions in the SGA box if they couldn’t attend the forum. One of the submitted questions was why certain clubs weren’t linked directly to the Vol State website. “If you have a question about getting your club linked and sites updated, you should contact student life. If you have other questions contact P.R.,” said Kenyatta Lovett. Lovett’s extension is 3571.

The question was asked yet again about cigarette smokers having a covered smoking area. “Many universities have eliminated smoking on campus altogether. This includes the parking lots. We are moving in that direction so we will not be offering a covered smoking area,” said Dr. Nichols.

Going green was a large topic of interest, and students want to know how Vol State is moving more in that direction. “This college, because of its structure and lack of financing, make it impossible to completely change over. We have already implemented a lot of change such as light fixtures, and we have purchased a fleet of hybrid vehicles. We have been working towards being green for many years,” said Dr. Nichols.

“Amongst Vol State’s recycling program, why don’t they recycle Styrofoam?” was a concern for some students. “The recycling committee is looking into ways of getting rid of Styrofoam,” said Leonard Assante, Associate Professor of Communication and Chair of the Communications Department. Gary Hume, Senior Director of Plant Operations added, “I think it should be banned.”

In closing, Dr. Nichols said, “We have solved many issues such as additional parking. We do listen and pay attention. I want to applaud everyone for getting students to attend.”
Students can get their voice heard and questions answered. It may not always be the answer wanted, but you never know unless you ask.

Volunteer State Community College

Businesses Stay Afloat in Harsh Economy

2009-10-26T12:13:00.009-05:00

Stimulus plans and bailouts are all the rage. The downward spiral of the economy has affected a lot of Americans, and businesses have had to close up shop, while some are still going strong. Some of the businesses in the Publix shopping center across from Vol State are taking a different approach.

Rachel Mullins is the owner of The Red Tulip. “It has definitely gotten slower because of the economy. We have added Vera Bradley items, and we are gearing up for Christmas. We have been here for four years.

We get some students from Volunteer State, and some of our best customers are the staff. They come here for a gift on their lunch hour,” said Mullins.

The Red Tulip has specialty gifts, home accessories, and invitations. They also offer baby items. “We do personalized gifts and invitations,” Mullins said. Mullins said that they are having success with adding Vera Bradley to the collection. The Red Tulip is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 5:30 pm.
Scott Lannom owner of Painturo’s has been in business across from Vol State for over three years. “The economy has affected us. We have seen at least a thirty percent fall in sales, and we have to watch our labor and food costs. We haven’t had to let anybody go, but it is a roller coaster. We’ll be slammed one weekend and on a wait, and the following week we won’t have as much business,” said Lannom.

Lannom said that customers have stated that they tend to wait for the coupons to come out. “Last year alone I gave over $50,000 in discounts,” Lannom said. Lannom said that some people may see that as losing over $50,000 in these down economic times, but this could be one of the things that helped him stay in business. People are still coming to his restaurant. Dustin McBurnett works at Painturo’s and said, “We get a whole bunch of repeat customers, and Vol-State students come in the mornings sometimes.”

The newest addition to the shopping center is Yogurt Oasis, which specializes in non-fat yogurt. They have been in Gallatin for over three weeks. Dale Malleck is the owner and said, “This is our third store. We have one in Nashville in the West End area, and one in Stones River Mall in Murfreesboro.”

“I wanted to offer customers a great tasting healthy option. College students often put on the freshman fifteen, and this yogurt can help combat that,” said Malleck.

“The economy is affecting everybody. We are still doing well, and get a lot of customers. Some customers that come in say that the economy is bad. I have people coming in almost every day looking for a job. You know the economy is bad when you have people with a college degree saying that they will take a job that pays minimum wage,” said Malleck.

Yogurt Oasis offers a ten percent discount to students, firefighters, and police officers. It is only forty five cents an ounce, and customers can add select toppings.

Businesses offering discounts and coupons seem to be staying afloat and adapting to the ever changing economy.

Volunteer State Community College

Get Your Voice Heard

2009-10-23T08:00:00.004-05:00

Questions often go unanswered due to lack of knowing who to ask.

On Monday October 26, 2009 at 12:30 pm students will have the chance to exercise their voice at the SGA forum. “The forum has been a tradition at Volunteer State since Dr. Nichols became president,” said Dusty Good, SGA President.

The forum will be in the cafeteria of the Wood Campus Center.

“The administrative powers will answer questions from the student body. The ability for this forum to affect change relies solely on the turnout of the student body,” said Good. “If students can’t make it to the forum, they can drop off questions in the drop box of the SGA office anytime between now and Monday before the forum,” Good said.

Good wants to point out that this is a chance for your voice to be heard. Comments can come in the form of questions, concerns, praise, and even complaints about Vol State.

Volunteer State Community College

Taking Strides for Service Learning

2009-10-22T08:41:00.005-05:00

What's Service Learning?

It's one way our Vol State classes can get directly involved in the community, doing projects that tie directly into what they are learning in the classroom. The Physical Therapy Assistant Program recently took on a Service Learning project to help the Faces of Hope Children's Therapy Center. Student Missy McAdams Huffman has more:

Normally at 6 a.m. on a Saturday morning there is very little activity going on at a college campus. This was not the case on Oct. 3 at Volunteer State Community College. The students in the Physical Therapist Assistant program were up early to set up and prepare for a 5K fun run and walk, called Paces for Faces, which they had organized to benefit Faces of Hope Children’s Therapy Center in Gallatin.

Ruthie Martin, Will Hudson, Luis Del Rio and Abbey Gilbert serve as the team leaders for this year’s PTA class, which consists of a total of 31 students. The team leaders were responsible for planning and organizing the event as well as delegating responsibilities for each team and each student prior to and on the day of the event.

The event raised $3,000 for Faces of Hope. On Oct. 13 the class presented a check to Leslie Face, the founder and director of the center. And in appreciation for their efforts, the class received a plaque and was treated to lunch by the staff of Faces of Hope.

According to the team leaders the event took a tremendous amount of planning and organizing. It took a complete group effort and each leader felt that the individual students and the teams worked hard to make the event a success.

“We started working on the project about the second or third week of the summer semester,” shared Martin.

“And we would meet weekly as individual teams and monthly as a class to make sure we were on track with all of our planning,” added Gilbert.

Before they began planning the event, the class had to agree upon which organization would benefit from their efforts. Martin explained that it was her team that brought Faces of Hope to the attention of the rest of the class and it was Gilbert’s team that suggested organizing the 5K. All four team leaders admitted that it was a lot to take on.

“We really had to pull all of our resources together to make it work,” Hudson said.

“But everyone really bought into the idea of the 5K,” explained Del Rio. “And it really was our best option to raise money to help Faces of Hope.”

The team leaders said that they didn’t have a particular monetary goal in mind when they began working on the project. Hudson shared that they wanted to get as many people involved as possible.

“I think we all wanted to raise enough money to help them bring a physical therapist to the center, but that was $40,000 so that really wasn’t realistic. But we did raise enough to maybe go to it,” added Del Rio.

All four agreed that the event was a great success and they would easily do it again. They admitted that they did have a few bumps along the way, but nothing that they couldn’t overcome as a group. They all learned to trust each other as individuals and as a class.

“During the planning and on the day of the event everyone really stepped up,” said Hudson.
And on the day of the event, according to the team leaders, things went very smoothly. On the day of the event, close to 30 people showed up to participate, in addition to those who had already preregistered. That surprised and thrilled the entire group and the participants were pleased as well.

“I had people coming up to me saying that they were amazed at how well we were able to pull it off,” said Martin. “They were asking if we would do it again.”

As for next year and doing it again, each team leader hopes that the next class will pick up where they left off and make the event even bigger and better. They also expressed their thoughts on how much they enjoyed working on the project and seeing it through to completion.

“We all learned how to work together as a team and as a class as a whole,” explained Del Rio. “And we all had to balance our heavy class schedule while working on the project.”

“And it felt good. We’re so centered on this program, but we learned that we could work on our classes, the project and spend time with our families,” added Gilbert.

“It was a great learning experience for all of us – being able to do something for someone else,” shared Hudson.

“Doing something like this and being able to give back really was a great experience for all of us,” said Martin.

And the students weren’t the only ones impressed with their efforts. Carolyn Moore, the director of the PTA program and Pam Saladino, the ACCE of the program, commented on the efforts of their students relating to the event.

“I think that their event was well thought out and planned out. I loved the teamwork that they applied to the project in order to accomplish something for such a deserving organization.

“And I was not surprised. I was thrilled and pleased, but not surprised because I know the caliber of these students,” said Saladino.

Moore added, “I was very proud of the class for their organization, cooperation and follow through that they showed for such a worthy organization.”

Miller signs with Trevecca

2009-10-21T08:09:00.003-05:00

Volunteer State Community College sophomore post player Heather Miller signed with Coach Gary Van Atta and Trevecca University on Tuesday. The six foot tall Miller averaged 8.67 points per game and 6.85 rebounds per game during the 2008-2009 season for the Vol State Lady Pioneers. Her 55% field goal percentage and 72 % free throw percentage were among the leaders of a team finishing 27-4 on the year. Miller is a graduate of Mt. Juliet High School.

Meet Jesse

2009-10-20T08:30:00.001-05:00

An orphaned kitten and Jesse Campbell make for an interesting conversation.

While approaching Jesse for an interview, he begins telling how he and some fellow students found a few kittens in a drain on campus. Homes had been found for the kittens, and he was holding the last one.

Jesse has been at Vol State for a year and a half and is a theatre major. “Theatre is my passion. I have been in ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ and ‘Puss and Boots.’ I’m interested in being in the spring musical 'Spitfire Grill',” said Jesse.

“I really like Vol-State and I’m getting ready to graduate. I’m really an interesting person. I’ve won over one thousand radio contests just by calling in around the Tenn. area. I’ve won a couple of national contests. I’ve won about seven hundred dollars in all,” Jesse said.

Jesse loves animals and is the Vice President of The Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM), and can be seen around campus.

Volunteer State Community College

Facebook or Face to Face?

2009-10-19T12:08:00.007-05:00

Being someone’s friend used to mean that you went out for lunch or coffee. Social networking sites such as Facebook, Myspace, and Twitter have changed face to face contact for some, and Vol State isn’t excluded from the social networking phenomenon.

Some students don’t like the thought of social networking. Jon-Michael Hines is a freshman here at Vol State and said he used to have a Myspace. “I just thought that this is a waste of time for me. If I want to go out and meet people, I’ll just go meet them,” Hines said.

Keeping in touch with friends and loved ones who live out of state can be a great reason to have an account, and for Amy Webb this is one of the reasons she signed up. “I do have a Facebook account. Personally I use it for friends that live out of state and to keep in touch with childhood friends. I don’t like how it cuts out verbal communication, and I’m not a big fan of Twitter,” said Webb.

Caleb Miller is twenty years old and is majoring in music. “I have Twitter so that I can update where my band is playing,” said Miller. He said he also has a Facebook account. “I love it. I moved out here on Christmas day from San Diego, and that is how I keep in touch with friends and family. I think the non-verbal communication is good but you need to talk on the phone. It definitely isn’t the same talking on the computer,” Miller said.

David Altizer says he uses Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace to publicize his magic shows. “It is very helpful for a performer to announce shows. I like Facebook more than Myspace because Myspace is kind of trashy,” said Altizer.

Social networking isn’t just for students. Leonard Assante, Associate Professor and Chair of Communications at Vol State, has both Facebook and Twitter accounts. “I don’t have Mypace, but I have Facebook. It is a good way to keep up with a lot of my friends. I’ve always felt the need to be a part of something and it is a good way to get hooked up with causes and groups. Group membership is very important to me and Facebook provides access to those. For example, political organizations,” Assante said.

Twitter may seem like a waste of time for some people, but Assante said that it has some value. “Airlines that I fly will send tweets if there are delays, etc. but I also think that it can be very narcissistic because people share their thoughts and it is all about them. Some of my students don’t see the point of having Twitter if they can update their Facebook status,” said Assante.

The consensus seems to be that social networking is a good thing, but you still need that face to face contact and phone conversations from time to time.

Volunteer State Community College

"You Have Been DMazed!"

2009-10-16T08:30:00.003-05:00

The art of illusion can be baffling to some, but for David Altizer this is his specialty.
At nineteen years of age David has been doing magic professionally for about five years. “I started when I was thirteen, and after a year of practicing I started doing shows at Cici’s Pizza. When I was thirteen I would practice for about nine hours a day in front of the mirror,” David said.

“Before magic I was very shy. I love performing and magic is a great art because everyone likes magic. I find it intriguing that I can fool people older than me,” David said. He fooled me when I saw him turn four dollar bills into four twenty dollar bills!

David first came to Vol State as a graphic design major, and now he is here for business. “I’m an entrepreneur, and I’d like to start touring this summer. I have a team of three magicians that help me. I do comedy magic. I work at Wow Wingery every Friday night,” David said. He is known for saying, "You have been Dmazed!"

David has done various magic performances throughout middle Tenn. that include Vol State, and says that his parents are very supportive of his passion for magic. His website can be viewed at davemazemagic.com.

Volunteer State Community College

You Can Touch It!

2009-10-15T08:00:00.002-05:00

Culture is apparent when entering the lobby of the Vol State Thigpen Library. Artwork is featured from artists every few weeks for anyone to enjoy.

Kaaren Engel is the current featured artist and her pieces are vibrant with a palate of primary colors. Engel gave a presentation about her art in the gallery, and students were able to meet her and ask questions. Engel said, “It takes twenty layers or more of paint to make one of these pieces.”

Engel’s work has been showcased in dozens of venues from hospitals to museums and colleges. She said that she likes showcasing her art in places where people may not generally go to an art gallery.

Several students were enjoying her art and listening intently to Engel’s presentation. “I love the colors,” said Sarah Remboldt, who is an art major. “It is very sporadic and vivid,” said Randall Ladd of Engel’s art.

The ability to see artwork showcased at Vol State is a plus for many students. “I think it is important to show art so that we get a visual concept,” said Amber Rogers. Rogers is a communications major but says she enjoys painting. “I do abstracts. It is fun to paint stuff that has no meaning so that people can take away their own definition of what it should be,” Rogers said.

One of the interesting things about Engel’s work is that people can photograph it and actually touch it. “I invite everyone to please touch the art so that you can get a feel for it. If it tears, oh well. It is paper and paint, and I’ll take a piece and make something else!” Engel said.

Engel has a website where you can view more of her work and contact information.

Volunteer State Community College

Vol State Main Entrance Advisory

2009-10-14T11:49:00.002-05:00

The main entrance to Vol State, the one with the electronic sign, will be closed Thursday, October 15th, from approximately 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. to unload a delivery of poles for the softball field construction project. This will include both in-bound and out-bound lanes. All campus traffic will be routed through the Gap Blvd entrance during this time.

A Whole New World

2009-10-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Living in a land of enchantment and getting paid for it is only a dream for most people, but for Amanda Hash this dream has become a reality.

Amanda is in the Hotel Restaurant Management Program (HTL) at Vol State, and got accepted for an internship at Disneyworld. The application process is very intense and only a select amount of students get accepted.

Amanda will be going to Disney World for the spring 2010 semester from January to May, and will be working in one of the hotels. “I’m extremely excited! I wish it was January already. I will be in a dorm with up to seven people. They pay for everything except for food and personal items. The rent for the dorms comes out of your paycheck, and it is only about eighty dollars a month,” Hash said.

Amanda has been at Vol State for five semesters. “I started in high school with the dual enrollment program. I decided on a career in hotel management because I read about the career and thought it would be cool,” she said. She will graduate in the summer of 2010 with her Associate’s Degree. “I currently work at the Holiday Inn Express in Hendersonville. One of the reasons I chose to apply with Disney is because I would love a permanent position with one of their hotels,” she said.

Mary Nunaley is an Associate Professor in the business division of Vol State. “The Hotel Management Program is designed to be a two year program but most students take four years. Amanda has been in the program for eighteen months. She is an excellent student,” said Nunaley.

Amanda is nineteen years old. “My parents will miss me, but they are very supportive,” Hash said. In her spare time she says she balances her school schedule with her social life. “I don’t have time to breathe!” she said. Other than working she spends time with her friends, family, and doing church activities.