News Archive

Archived News Items

Posted: 11-29-06 - Inauguration of the Eighth President of Garrett College
Posted: 11-7-06 - Enrollment grows as the campus grows
Posted: 11-6-06 - Campus expands to better serve community
Posted: 10-4-06 - CARC to be located on the Garrett College campus
Posted: 9-25-06 - U of MD University College and Garrett College Launch Partnership
Posted 8-15-06 - Lions Club Scholarships Awarded
Posted 8-15-06 - Franklin representative visits Garrett
Posted 6-30-06 - Summer Center 2006
Posted 4-28-06 - Vision 2004
Posted 4-26-06 - On-line studies
Posted 4-19-06 -New President of Garrett College selected
Posted 4-19-06 -Teachers sought for 2006 Summer Institute
Posted 4-19-06 -Great interest in Scholarship Program
Posted 4-10-06 -Foundation Changing
Posted 4-7-06 Summer Institute
Posted 3-29-06 - Garrett County Commissioners Scholarship Program
Posted 3-29-06 - Women's History Monologues
Posted 1-31-06 - Team Driving

Posted: 11-29-06 - Inauguration of the Eighth President of Garrett College

Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Beginning with the processional led by the Garrett College Pipes and Drums a comfortable level of formality ushered in a new era at Garrett College. Led by visiting college presidents, other institutional representatives, and the college faculty and staff, regalia clad members of the academic community preceded the new president and the stage party to the ceremony.

Presidential Inauguration Slideshow

In her opening remarks, Ruth Seib, Chair of the Garrett College Board of Trustees, who also acted as the mistress of ceremony, said it has been more than two decades since the college conducted a Presidential search. The college has many wonderful and unique characteristics such as its participatory governance structure, dedicated and conscientious faculty and staff, signature academic programs, and of course, the students who the county government recognized as a key to the economic life of Garrett County. She said she looks forward to Dr. Dauphinais leading the college and the young people into the future.

Delegate George Edwards said he was impressed with how Dr. Dauphinais jumped right in. He is a good fit for the college and this part of State.

"Education is power," said Chair of the Garrett County Commissioners Ernie Gregg as he welcomed the new President. He said Garrett College is an important part of the fabric of Garrett County and the Commissioners recognized this with the Commissioners Scholarship Program started this year.

“This is an exciting time, but, also a time of many challenges,” Gregg said. He said he knew from the beginning Dr. Dauphinais was the right fit for the college at this time.

Bob Beach, Executive Director of the Garrett College Foundation, said the Foundation is pursuing new ways they can serve the community and the college and looks forward to exciting ways to raise the area’s consciousness of the college.

On behalf of the faculty, Ben Sincell said there already have been many positive changes. Garrett College is an excellent example of higher education in Maryland.

Mike Kilgus, Dean of Administration at Garrett College, and Connie Meyers representing the Garrett College Staff Senate, both appreciated the leadership style of the new President – the way he gets around the college and community, seeks feedback and values the commitment of the college staff.

Krista Joosep, President of the Garrett College Student Government Association, hopes that diversity will be maintained. She said only the best people are chosen to be President of Garrett College.

Dr. H. Clay Whitlow, Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Community Colleges, welcomed Dr. Dauphinais to the state on behalf of the other 15 Maryland community colleges, which educate half of all students in higher education in Maryland. He appreciates the new President's willingness to participate with the state.

Dr. Dauphinais echoed Commissioner Gregg’s sentiment that “Education is power”. He continued by noting that to keep people from power they must be denied education. Education is the great equalizer, but is often taken for granted. However, Garrett County's elected officials know education is the key to the economic future of the county.

Dauphinais compared water, which sustains life and improves health, to education. While access to drinking water is one of most pressing problems in the third world and taken for granted in this country, access to higher education is a significant problem facing the United States as well as the third world. The Commissioners Scholarship Program, noted Dauphinais, was one local solution to the problem of access to higher education. Dr. Dauphinais stressed the importance of communication, pattern recognition, and problem solving in the future employment market. The ability to communicate ideas, make decisions, and adapt to changes is what sets human beings apart and will be the marks of life-long complex employability. The college must be open to change and educate people to accept change.

“We are all in this together,” he said as he challenged students to ask questions, work to understand other people and to take time to think! He also emphasized that “Everything is on the test” and that the test is life.

He challenged the faculty to be rigorous in classroom, expect mastery of subject matter, and encourage students to think - to go beyond the rules in a safe manner. He challenged the staff to be flexible as the college is growing and students expect more than ever before and the human touch is far more important than all the technology in the world.

He challenged the administration to make changes as comfortable as possible for everyone. Everyone needs to think about what is being done and what effect it will have, to be flexible and try new things. Board members need to add perspective, a level of guidance, and ask questions.

Everyone needs to remember why they are in education. Dr. Dauphinais closed with a quote from Henry Emerson Fosdick, a 19th and 20th century American clergyman who said, “Democracy is based upon the conviction that there are extraordinary possibilities in ordinary people.” A community college is where these extraordinary possibilities are made real and that is why he and others are a part of community colleges. The college is here for the community and must meet the present and future needs of the community to ensure that the possibilities are realized.

Ruth Seib presented the Presidential Medallion to Dr. Dauphinais. It symbolizes the authority invested in the president by the Board of Trustees to operate and represent the college as its chief executive officer. During the ceremony, the medallion was placed around the president’s neck with the chain representing the yoke of responsibility for the welfare of the institution.

In addition to those noted above, dignitaries included Congressman Roscoe Bartlett and his Chief of Staff Mr. Bud Ottis; Mr. Tim McGrath representing Senator Paul Sarbanes; Ms. Julianna Albowicz representing Senator Barbara Mikulski; The Honorable David Beard, Garrett County Commissioner; The Honorable Fred Holliday, Garrett County Commissioner; and The Honorable Wendell Beitzel, former Garrett County Commissioner and Delegate-elect.

Delegates from other Colleges and Universities and other Educational Entities included: Dr. Charles Snare, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Chadron State College, Chadron, Nebraska and Chief Marshal for the evening; Dr. Susan Crawford, Board Chair Bucknell University, Dr. Joseph Hoffman, Dean of College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Frostburg State University; Dr. Guy Altieri, President of Hagerstown Community College; Dr. Carol W. Eaton, President of Frederick Community College; Dr. James LaCalle, President of Harford Community College; Dr. Bruce Exstrom, Vice President of Instruction for Allegany College of Maryland; Dr. Murray K. Hoy, President of Wor-Wic Community College; Dr. Mark McColloch, Vice President of Instruction, Community College of Baltimore County and Dr. Brenda McCartney, Assistant Superintendent of the Garrett County Board of Education.

Other members of the stage party included: Ms. Vianne Bell, Vice Chair, Garrett College Board of Trustees; Ms. Linda Sherbin, Esq., Garrett College Board of Trustees; Dr. Lillian Mitchell, Garrett College Board of Trustees and Garrett College Dean of Academic and Student Affairs Emerita; Mr. Dale Schroyer, Garrett College Board of Trustees; Mr. Duane Yoder, Garrett College Board of Trustees; and Mr. Dave Martin, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Garrett County and Garrett Laker Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach who graciously sang the National Anthem during the ceremony. Special guests also present included: Dr. Stephen J. Herman, former Garrett College President; Mr. Clint Englander, former Garrett College Board of Trustee; Mr. Paul Mateer, former Garrett College Board of Trustee; Ms. Diane Thayer, former Garrett College Board of Trustee and Ms. Joan Crawford, Garrett College Professor Emerita.

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Posted: 11-7-06 - Enrollment grows as the campus grows

With 735 students enrolled for the fall semester, Garrett College has set a new record. This is the highest number of students enrolled since the college opened its doors in 1971. The previous high enrollment was over a decade ago with 722 students in 1995.

Dr. Paul Dauphinais, president of Garrett College, noted at the last Chamber of Commerce Board meeting that the college’s residence hall had been fully booked since July and that signature programs such as Adventure Sports have been drawing students not only from Maryland, but from Virginia, Maine, and Georgia as well as other states as the programs have been better advertised. Programs having the highest enrollment are General Studies, Business and Information Technology, Allied Health, Juvenile Justice, Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology, Adventure Sports and Education.

"It took a team effort across the college to achieve these enrollment statistics,” said Dr. Nancy Priselac. "We look forward to a new residence hall for fall and completion of the library facility. Both will be ready by Fall 2007." Plans are underway for the recreation center which will offer students a variety of opportunities in recreation and enable the college to pursue other programs in allied health such as physical therapy and athletic training.

The Commissioners’ Scholarship Program available to 2006 Garrett County high school graduates was a significant factor in the enrollment growth. “The county government and people of Garrett County have exercised real leadership in getting local students to college”, said Dauphinais, “While many writers call upon the federal government to find ways to make college more affordable, Garrett County has taken it upon itself to ensure that its population is well educated and ready for the future. Several colleagues from around the country have asked me how the program works.” The program is expected to continue next year.

The number of international students at the college also increased. This fall 19 students from 14 different countries are part of the student body. Countries represented include Japan, Latvia, Estonia, Canada, England, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Papua-New Guinea among others. These students have come to Garrett for a variety of reasons including the location and a climate that values the experience that foreign students afford the college. According to Dauphinais, “These students are here to gain a better understanding of the United States and the educational opportunities offered here. At the same time they provide a tremendous experience for our students, and the area as a whole, to interact with people from other cultures, some very different from our own.” Dr. Priselac noted that two more students from other countries will be arriving in January.

Many students at Garrett seek to transfer to other institutions. To aid students in this endeavor the college has signed articulation agreements with the University of Maryland University College, West Virginia University, and Franklin University. Students who take advantage of those agreements transfer with all of their credits from Garrett. The University of Maryland University College agreement has a UMUC representative at Garrett on a regular basis to advise students and provides the opportunity to take numerous courses via distance learning. “Programs like these will allow students to continue their education through these institutions online. They can obtain certain four-year degrees without leaving the county,” Priselac said. The college also participates with Bucknell University and the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation to each year send three highly qualified students to Bucknell at no cost to the student. Last year, the college sent five students to Bucknell in a variety of majors who are all doing extremely well.

Excellent articulation agreements and the new facilities being built at the college point toward continued growth. Dauphinais noted that the three projects currently underway at the college, a new library, new residence hall, and recreation center are, according to national studies, three of the top amenities college students look at when selecting a college.

The future looks bright for Garrett College, as it continues to provide more educational opportunities for Garrett County residents. As the college tag line says, “ Small College, Big Results”.

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Posted: 11-6-06 - Campus expands to better serve community

Garrett College is growing. With its highest enrollment in more than a decade and a number of buildings under construction, the college is preparing for a bright future for itself and the community.

The new, state-of-the-art, Learning Resource Center being constructed by Harbel, a Carl Belt Company of Cumberland, should be completed by April and open mid-August, 2007. This new $5 million facility will feature the latest in technology, including a cyber-café and a multi-media classroom. The building will also house technology-driven developmental classrooms for reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as group and individual study rooms.

The current library space will be used for classes, office and storage space. Future use of the space will be decided as part of the College’s new 10-year Campus Master Plan that will be submitted to the State in January 2008.

The decision was made recently to move the Garrett College Community Athletic and Recreation Center Facility (CARC) to the College campus instead of on Marsh Mountain. Its location on the 60 acre campus will be decided within the next few weeks. The $26 million, 100,000 square foot building is under design with a final design completed by Winter of 2007. The College anticipates construction to begin during the early part of 2008. The building should be completed by August 2009.

“While the College wanted the facility to contain two separate bodies of water, competition and recreation, the cost made this infeasible,” said Kilgus. “However, we are working with the architects to accommodate the local swim teams and competitive swimmers within the recreation/therapy pool.”

The design also includes a 2000 seat performance gymnasium and more than 6,000 square feet of fitness facilities. The building will also house the College’s Adventure Sports program, among others.

“The building is being designed to accommodate both the College and the Garrett County community,” said Kilgus. “That was the original concept of this athletic and recreation building – to be used by local high school students and the community.”

Garrett County Memorial Hospital will also have a space in the facility. Plans include adding Allied Health programs to the College curriculum such as physical therapy and athletic training. This building and related activities will allow the College to add new majors such as the Allied Health programs, said Kilgus. “Currently we only have the ‘One-Plus-One” program with Allegany College of MD for Nursing and are the only community college in MD without an Allied Health program, something the College and community has wanted for several years.”

The College will be hosting public meetings to provide additional information on the various facilities and to answer questions,” said Kilgus. “We want to keep the community up to speed with the rapid growth occurring at the College but need to finalize some details prior to doing so.”

The College also recently broke for a new student housing facility. Currently under construction, the $7.25 million, 126-bed apartment facility will be a combination of 2 and 4 bedroom apartment suites with a common area, game room and group study room. The building will be located just east of the current housing facility on Mosser Road. The College will start taking reservations and deposits for occupancy in this new facility during the spring 2007 semester with occupancy staring in the Fall of 2007. The new student housing is being financed through a privatization process with the Garrett Community College Foundation. The developer for the project is Gilbane Development Company of Vienna, VA.

“The current need is to help the College continue to grow,” said Dean of Administration Mike Kilgus. It is estimated 25 to 50 potential students may have been lost due to lack of student housing in the county during this past year.”

The college opened its doors in 1971 with three buildings. Since then eight official buildings have been added and the Garrett Hall residence dorm. Now these three additional buildings will allow the College to provide increased quality and an affordable education for both county residents and those students coming from outside the county who wish to take advantage of the College’s unique educational offerings and Garrett County’s peaceful setting for learning.

According to College president Paul Dauphinais, “The addition of these three facilities is very important to the College and they are integrated into a larger whole. The new residence hall will enable us to have more students on campus, the new library will enable us to serve the academic needs of those students and the community, finally the recreation center will provide an outlet for both new students on campus and for members of the local community. These issues, service to students and the local area, are central to the mission of two-year colleges.”

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Posted: 10-4-06 - CARC to be located on the Garrett College campus

The Board of County Commissioners has decided to construct the Garrett College Community Athletic Recreation Center (CARC) on the Garrett College Campus.  The Board’s decision to move the CARC from the previously agreed to location adjacent to the Adventure Sports Center (ASC) on Marsh Mountain was driven by feedback from CARC architects and CARC Planning Committee indicating that projected construction costs associated with the Marsh Mountain site would have an adverse impact on the functionality of the CARC.  While the Board was reluctant to sacrifice the potential synergistic benefits of the CARC being co-located with the ASC whitewater course and Marsh Mountain Village, in the end, it came down to maximizing the functionality and facilities provided to potential users of the CARC.   

Board Chairman Ernie Gregg stated, “the Marsh Mountain site development costs would have precluded having many of the amenities that the public has right to expect.    Maximum usage by local organizations, numerous athletic teams, and community residents has always been the primary objective of this project”.
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Posted: 9-25-06 - University of Maryland University College and Garrett College Launch Partnership - gives students greater access to associate’s and bachelor’s degrees

MCHENRY, Md. (Sept. 14, 2006)– Garrett College and the University of Maryland University College (UMUC) Thursday announced an alliance partnership to offer students greater access and opportunity to associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. Beginning this fall, Garrett College will offer dual admission into several UMUC programs including Business Administration, Global Business and Public Policy, Management Studies, Criminal Justice and Environmental Management.

"This is a red banner day," said Garrett College President Dr. Paul Dauphinais at the signing ceremony with University of Maryland University College President Dr. Susan Aldridge in Garrett College’s Art Gallery. "This is what higher education is all about.

“This partnership with UMUC provides well-rounded, world-class educational opportunities to students in Western Maryland,” he said. “It provides a seamless transition from the associate’s to the bachelor’s degree, and allows students to complete the degree in one geographic location, giving our students greater access to four-year degrees.”

The alliance partnership is designed to allow students from Garrett College to have simultaneous enrollment in both schools as a way for students to receive their associate’s and bachelor’s degrees from UMUC at the same location without the hassle of transfers and applications. In addition to the seamless transition and access to the bachelor’s degree, scholarship opportunities through the UMUC Maryland Community College Transfer Scholarship are available to students interested in pursuing the degree programs.

“This partnership with Garrett College is part of a continuing effort by UMUC to increase accessibility to education through the state’s community college campuses and through online programs,” said Dr. Aldridge. “We are committed to helping provide both accessible and affordable four-year degrees to Maryland’s students. This partnership is designed to provide another affordable and convenient pathway to a bachelor’s degree.”

"This is yet another wonderful opportunity for Garrett County resident to pursue education that meets their needs, said Dr. Virginia Broaddus, who was recognized by Dr. Dauphinais for spearheading the effort. "I am proud to have played a part in opening our window on the world just a little bit more."

The partnerships between businesses, the Chamber of Commerce and County government exemplify the county's support for education, said Dr. Dauphinais. This program, along with the County Commissioners' Scholarship, offers Garrett County residents opportunities to improve their life.

Dr. Aldridge said UMUC has years of experience providing education to non-traditional students. Students working and supporting families do extremely well. University of Maryland University College currently has alliance partnerships with 11 of 16 community colleges in the state of Maryland.

Students can partake of UMUC’s extensive benefits, including access to the University System of Maryland library, tutoring, writing assistance, career counseling and computer labs. In addition, UMUC will accept up to 70 college credits if the credits are earned as part of an associate degree program. For more information on UMUC’s alliance partnerships, please visit www.umuc.edu/alliances.
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Posted: 8-15-06 - Franklin representative to visit Garrett

Franklin University representatives plan to be on the Garrett College Campus from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 28. Bill Chan, of Franklin University, will meet with new and returning students at Garrett College who are interested in taking advantage of Garrett College's partnership with Franklin. The partnership allows students to take up to 84 credits at Garrett College, at the community college's tuition rate, and transfer them to Franklin, from which the students can earn a bachelor's degree in one of twelve majors. The program is unique in that students never have to travel to Franklin for classes: all can be complete through the Internet.

Chan plans to begin meeting with students at 9 a.m. in the Technology Center lobby and will have a special session for advisors, staff and faculty to provide more information about the university and the partnership at 1:30 p.m. in Room 302. The Franklin delegation will be available in the Tech Center lobby from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. to answer questions about the program. The last session is planned for 5:00 p.m. in Room 302 of the Technology Center to accommodate students who work during the day.

"We at Garrett College have worked with Bill Chan for several years and we're delighted to welcome him to Garrett County and to the college," said Dr. Virginia Broaddus, Dean of Academic Affairs. "The eager outreach that he and his staff consistently provide speaks well for the energetic dedication Franklin has for the community college alliance. We are proud that we can send our graduates to Franklin and that we can offer them up to 84 credits at Garrett College."

Franklin University assigns a special team of advisors to work with Garrett College students and has already served a good number of Garrett graduates. The program started several years ago and has seen steady interest. Garrett College and Franklin University continue to explore ways to extend the two plus two articulation agreement.

Anyone interested in meeting with Chan should contact Dr. Nancy Priselac, Dean of Student Development, at 301-387-3045 or email npriselac@garrettcollege.edu.
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Posted: 8-15-06 - Lions Club Scholarships Awarded

Bob Beach, Executive Director of The Garrett College Foundation, announced that scholarships provided by the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club and the Oakland/Mountain Lake Park Lions Club have been awarded to Garrett County students.

The Deep Creek Lake Lions Club’s Stewart Jackson Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Brent David Beachy of Grantsville, Kalie Michelle Hostutler of Oakland, and Sarah Elizabeth Rexroad, of Swanton.

Beachy is a 2006 graduate of Northern High School. He is the son of Kevin E. and Jeanean M.Beachy and is a General Studies major.

Hostutler is a 2006 graduate of Southern Garrett High School. She is the daughter of Henry A. and Kim M. Hostutler and is majoring in Business Administration.

Rexroad is the daughter of Kenneth R. and Susan E. Rexroad. The 2006 graduate of Southern Garrett High School is majoring in the Mathematics/Science program.

Summer Dawn Sines of Friendsville received the Oakland/Mountain Lake Park Lions: Bill Ravenscroft Memorial Scholarship. The 2006 Northern Garrett High School graduate is the daughter of Marvin R. Sines, Jr. and Kimberly Sue Sines. She is majoring in nursing

Receiving the Deep Creek Lake Lions Scholarship were Dana Michele Hannibal, Lauren Ashley Powell and Christy Jean Stahl, all of Accident

Hannibal is the daughter of Dennis E. and Theresa Ann Hannibal. She is a 2006 graduate of Northern High School.

Powell is a 2006 graduate of Northern Garrett High School. The daughter of Joseph D. and Kimberly Powell, she is majoring in Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Stahl is 2006 graduate of Northern Garrett High School. She is the daughter of Kris L. and Jeanne M. Stahl and is a General Studies major.
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Posted: 6-30-06 - Summer Center 2006

More than 100 students from across the state are taking part in the week-long residential program at Garrett College. The students in grades six to 10 are involved in the simulations of catastrophic events developed in conjunction with the Challenger Learning Center in Wheeling, WV.

Radiation poisoning, volcanic eruptions and hurricanes are just some of the catastrophic events facing young students this summer as they test their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Simulations will be conducted at the Challenger Learning Center and as e-Mission conferences with Garrett College.

Technology, including Computers, robots, graphing calculators, GPS devices, distance learning techniques and specialized geometry software will enhance the understanding and learning of core concepts during the Summer Center for the Integration of Math and Science sponsored by the State Department of Education and hosted by Garrett College this summer.

"It is an honor to again be chosen to host this challenging program," said Dr. Nancy Priselac, center director. “A staff of 26 people, including county teachers, college personnel and other volunteers make this happen.”

Students from Garrett County attending the program are Nicholas McGettigan, Daniel Uphold, Ian Jobe, Sara Jones, Spencer Morrow and Megan Fitzwater.

Local teachers working with the program include Diana Marks, Southern High School science; Wade Groves, Southern High School mathematics; Jolene Scofield, Southern Middle School science; Mary Stanton and Mike Nedrow, Garrett College mathematics; Kurt Woolslayer, Shanksville High School science; Jessica Fratz, Accident Elementary School. Other support faculty include Casey Caprini, Mike Fike, Amber Polk, Jennifer Rodeheaver, Ron Bray, Phil Gordon, and Josh Fitzwater all graduates or about to graduate from Garrett College. Dr. Nancy Priselac serves as Center Director, Linda May-Gerard serves as Site Coordinator and Mike Saturday serves as Resident Hall Director. Several local students and graduates, Jamie Beckman, Lasma Kanele, Zumra Balihodzic, Mykolas Gudelis, Krystle James and Bongani Dlamini, are serving as Resident Hall Assistants. Our support staff includes Erik Crowe, Garland Kearney, Gina Lewis, Barbara Sweitzer, Peggy Logsdon, Lynne Rivera, and Adelee Naylor. Other volunteers include Aaron Garner, Joe Moul and Josh Rodeheaver.

The Center Science consultant, Stu Schultz has been active in education for 42 years.  Stu taught Physics and Chemistry at West Bloomfield High School, served as the High School Science Chairman and district Science Coordinator.  He became active on the national scene by presenting over 30 sessions at NSTA and AAPT meetings.  He became a Physics Teaching Resource Agent, with the American Association of Physics Teachers, a trainer for the Operation Physics program started by San Diego State University and later an Operation Physics trainer-of-trainers sponsored by Western Michigan University.  He is the lead physics consultant for the program.

Stu developed an integrated science program called “Space, Time and Spirit” to address the challenge of unmotivated students at the ninth grade level.  This program was selected by General Motors Institute in Flint, Michigan to be used in the nationally televised program called “Tune in Math and Science”.  Stu spent five years teaching on live satellite TV with students in the studio. The Garrett College math department has worked with this program since 1993.

After retiring from West Bloomfield Schools, Stu worked with the Oakland County Intermediate School District.  Stu led teacher-training sessions and provided local “wrap around” TV programs for teachers participating in the elementary science program, "Galaxy Classroom."

The Presidential Award in Math and Science Teaching, The Metropolitan Detroit Outstanding Teacher Award, The Milken Family Foundation Award and the Disney Channel Salute to the American Teacher recognized this work. He established a “state of the art” science department for the Jewish Academy of Metropolitan Detroit.  He is a board member of the Science Center of Inquiry.
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Posted: 4-28-06 - Vision 2004

Garrett College has made great strides during the past decade according to the Vision 2004 Final Report issued this past winter.

On November 5, 1993, a hundred people met for a full day to review the state of the college and formulate a blueprint for its future in eight different areas: Academic Life

Continuing Education, Student Life, Athletics, Work Environment, Enrollment Development, Communiversity and Distance Education and Physical Plant and Campus Development.

Reports from these work groups were used to compose a comprehensive vision. This was accepted by the Garrett College Board of Trustees on May 17 1994.

The 2004 review was conducted to determine the successes of the vision and where the college is going now.

The study scored a full realization of the vision with a five, substantial progress with modest further action required to realize the vision fully as a four and substantial progress completed, but substantial further progress required to meet the goals as a three.

The Community Service area received the highest scores as students and staff are involved in many community activities.

At the time of the study, the campus facilities included seven existing buildings were clustered together on the 60 acre campus. Five major facilities were to be built. Since then, the Parris Glendening Advanced Technology Center and the construction of Garrett Hall integrated the back 30 acres into the life of the college. Additional academic buildings, to include technical classrooms to support general education and scientific and computer studies with wired laboratories have not yet been built, but are part of the campus master plan.

Construction of the learning Resource Center is in the works. A Community Wellness Center is planned to start in the 2006 fiscal year. A Community Theatre was not pursued since Garrett County is planning to build a performing arts center. Also, major renovations were made to campus facilities.

Many areas in the learning category received a rating of four. Garrett County has been successful in graduating students who succeed in transfer studies and in employment. Several new certificates added since 1994 including Juvenile Justice, Computer Applications, Information System Technology, Commercial Vehicle Transportation Specialist and Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology.

Distance Learning, on-line classes and a variety of course schedules has made Garrett College more accessible to a large portion of the population. Co-curricular programs were started and have been successful.

The Adventure Sports program has received national and international recognition and the Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology program has received state and regional recognition. Continuing education offers courses for certain trades and vocational professions and many personal interest courses.

Student Life has improved with co-curricular events, the construction of Garrett Hall for on-campus housing and inter-collegiate athletics.

Work Life Environment received high ratings, with employees taking an active part in decision making. Staff size and qualifications have improved to meet needs of students.

Although the college did not achieve its goal of constructing a new academic building, theater or wellness center, it did build a residence hall, two advanced technology centers and a child care center. It opened a truck driving institute and outreach center in Grantsville.

Its academic programs are rigorous and well regarded. Its students appreciate the higher education they receive and graduatess are succeeding in employment and transfer.

The main challenges for the future include state funding and enrollment growth. They hold the key to institutional strength and increased compensation.

Dr. Herman said Garrett College can look forward to a new Learning Resources Center, which also will be a center of institutional life; the renovation of its existing academic bldg, and within the next four years, the Community Athletic and Recreation Center with new academic programs.

The report concluded: “If the challenges of funding, growth and residential life can be met, the College has very good reason to envision an optimistic picture of its future in its next visioning document.”
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Posted: 4-28-06 - On-line studies

College courses on-line are growing in popularity, from those of personal interest to courses leading to an Associate of Arts degree.

“The online program grew 36% from Fiscal Year 2005 to Fiscal Year 2006,” said Dr Nancy Priselac, director of Distance Learning at Garrett. “This is a definite indicator that our new approaches are meeting the needs of our busy Garrett County citizens.”

Each month new courses are available on-line. Take them for fun or take them for credit. General studies on-line can lead to an Associate of Arts degree through Garrett College.

This is great for people who are undecided about their future or are working full-time.

In June 2005, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education granted approval for Garrett’s General Studies Associate of Arts Degree – online.

Distance Learning allows the student to take a Garrett College course anywhere, anytime. It gives you, the student, the opportunity to study when you want where you want.

Online courses are almost the same as “traditional” courses with printed materials, text and often a study guide. All courses are managed by a faculty member who directs the course, reviews and study sessions. Students have access to the same services, activities and support as the on-campus students.

“Costs and credits earned through these courses are the same as for the on-campus courses,” said Priselac. “The primary difference is the flexibility it gives students.”

Required courses to obtain an Associate of Arts degree include English Composition, Speech, Literature, Social Science, College Mathematics, Science and lab, Introduction to Computers, Physical Education or Health and Humanities electives.

“Students who are most successful taking online courses are independent learners who are motivated and self-disciplined,” said Priselac. Students should be able to complete all quizzes and tests online, but some courses may require some campus attendance.

To participate in an online course, a student must have off-campus Internet access with an Internet browser and an e-mail address. Some courses may require special software such as Office XP.

Garrett College has provided various types of Distance Learning for years. This service is enhanced and offers more people an opportunity to earn an associates degree in General Studies from the comfort of their own home.

Besides helping people with a full-time job and busy home schedule, or those who may be home-bound, on-line studies also is a great opportunity for high school students, 16 or older. High school students must have a 3.0 or higher Grade point average.

This program may be accessed by students who have passed the Garrett College Compass Placement indication, which shows they are college-ready in English, Reading and Mathematics.

Students may register by calling 301-387-3044. Any one who has questions may contact Dr. Nancy Priselac, director of Distance Learning at 301-387-3045 or Linda May-Gerrard at 301-387-3155 or at dlearn@garrettcollege.edu..

More information is available at www.garrettcollege.edu/distancelearning.
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Posted 4-19-06 -New President of Garrett College selected

Dr. Paul R. Dauphinais, of Palmer, Alaska, will be the next President of Garrett College. Today, current President Stephen Herman made the announcement to faculty and staff at the Garrett College.

The new President is currently the College Director at Matanuska-Susitna College, a campus of the University of Alaska, Anchorage. The college enrolls almost 2,000 students.

His professional experience spans public and private two and four year institutions, with positions as chief executive, chief academic and chief student affairs officer. Dr. Dauphinais' career has been primarily at rural institutions where the tie between the college and the community has been important and close. He had several years experience as a college CEO at both traditional liberal arts transfer colleges and at a technical college.

"Several times during the interview process I was asked what my greatest challenge would be and the first thing I would do," said Dr. Dauphinais. " Garrett College will be dealing with a change from a president with 20 years experience in office to someone who will be learning his way around the county."

"My challenge and immediate requirement is to learn how and why things are done here, come to understand the organization of the college and the community and enable everyone to understand me," he said. "In doing so I hope to minimize the trauma of change, get to know the people and community of the college and county, and finally to be able to carry on with the incredible accomplishments of President Herman and bring to fruition the capitol projects that will mean so much to the college and community."

A search committee of trustees, faculty, staff, administrators and community members narrowed the pool from 31 applicants to five candidates. The team that interviewed Dr. Dauphinais recommended him as "a perfect fit" for Garrett College..

"In his various professional capacities Dr. Dauphinais has demonstrated a deep commitment to the communities he serves," said Dr. Herman. "He also has an excellent track record in moving his institutions forward along variety of dimensions including student enrollment, institutional finances, organizational management, planning, and curriculum development."

"Dr. Dauphinais brings significant Administrative experience in rural community college education to his new post in Garrett County," said Dr. Herman. "In addition to his academic life, he has had a Noteworthy military career as an officer in the United States Navy and as a Commander, U.S. Naval Reserve, now retired."   "Dr. Dauphinais will make a great President," said Dr. Steve Herman, who is retiring after twenty years of service. "A bona fide academic and accomplished teacher, he is a well traveled and successful administrator and chief executive officer. He is down to earth, relaxed with people, and sports a wonderful sense of humor.  Garrett College is very lucky to have enticed him to our community. He will take our institution to a new level, and he will be an excellent partner in supporting community and economic aspirations and development."   "Dr. Dauphinais will assume his duties at Garrett College in early June," Dr. Herman said. "I hope you join me in welcoming him to Garrett College and Garrett County."
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Posted 4-19-06 -Teachers sought for 2006 Summer Institute

Dynamic teachers are being sought to participate in a four-day residential training program for Materials World Modules, a highly acclaimed program developed at Northwestern University.

The Maryland Summer Institute: Instructor Training Program will offer hands-on learning experiences in science, engineering, and technology July 5 through 8 at Garrett College. Teachers who complete the four-day training will be qualified to teach Materials World Modules.

All expenses are paid and participants will receive a daily stipend, free software, and have an exciting time at Deep Creek Lake. Teachers participating will receive free Fathom software by Key Curriculum to assist in teaching statistics and probability and Geometer’s Sketchpad to assist in teaching geometry. Additionally, they will receive a Materials World Module valued at $400. The Institute focuses on creating materials used in the real world, such as concrete, composites, polymers, and various materials used in sports equipment for middle and high school students.

The teachers will have the opportunity to explore and experience four select Materials World Modules, review standard teaching units for MWM, review and study MWM mathematics, develop appropriate technology skills to be used while teaching MWM, such as test content and processes, and analytic methods, and they will discuss and explore Materials World Modules with training experts.

“Teachers will have the opportunity to learn from scientists from regional public and private laboratories as well as experts from scientific, engineering and technology private industries,” said Dr. Stephen M. Priselac, Institute Director.

Applications should be sent to the Maryland Summer Institute by May 6. Applicants will be notified by May 31.

More information is available at www.mwmmd.com.
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Posted 4-19-06 -Great interest in Scholarship Program
Interest in the new Garrett County scholarship Program has been amazing, said Dr. Nancy Priselac, Dean of Student Development at Garrett College, who has been speaking to students at Garrett County high schools and to parents in separate presentations.

Tom Woods, Principal of Southern Garrett High School , said “There is tremendous interest among the present senior and junior students.  Our preliminary indications are such that we expect 50-60 seniors to enroll next year at Garrett College.  The juniors who will be seniors next year have indicated that as many as 50-75 students will be dual enrolled in classes or in a mixed schedule with the college.”

“The response by students and families has been very encouraging and will certainly be a great opportunity for Garrett County students.  All the parents that our school assisted with paperwork thus far have had nothing but praise for the initiative,” he said. “The future economic impact on Garrett County will be astounding.  It will allow many families the opportunity to have first generation college bound students.  I see excitement in the eyes of many students, who until now, had really not ever thought of college as their next opportunity.

Southern High guidance chair, Beverly Sincell, agreed, “It has generated much interest. We had a senior meeting last week with more than 100 students in attendance to ask questions. Many have now picked up applications.”

“There are some students who were not going to go to college who are now planning to go to college. It seems to be happening,” she said of the County Commissioners hope that the new scholarship program would help more students go to college. "The students of Northern High School, along with their parents, are really excited about the Commissioners Scholarship Program.  This provides an outstanding opportunity for many students that normally would not be able to attend college because of the lack of finances,” said Principal Gary L. Reichenbecher. “It's hard to predict how much this will increase the number of our students that go to college, but I predict the number will jump immensely.”

“Students have been doing a great job at coming in and getting all of the required forms, asking questions, returning forms, etc.,” said Mary Douds, counselor for eleventh and twelfth grade students at Northern. “I am very pleased to say that several students who originally told me they were not planning on attending college have now come in and talked with me about various programs offered at Garrett College.  I anticipate more!” Priselac is very pleased with the interest in Garrett College and the wonderful opportunity now available to Garrett students who will be able to pursue higher education because of the new scholarship.

Passed by the County Commissioners in March, the Commissioners Scholarship Program is to be part of a student aid package covering the cost of tuition and combined fees at Garrett College. The direct savings due to two years of scholarship funding at Garrett College is approximately $6,000, said Dr. Herman, Garrett County President. "The indirect saving resulting from getting the first two years at the local community college is much higher, depending on the institution the student would otherwise have attended."

The program will be effective for the Fall 2006 semester. Garrett College will administer the program with oversight by the county's Department of Economic Development.

An applicant must apply for admission to Garrett College, satisfy its requirements and meet certain standards. Students are required to apply for various forms of financial aid. More details are available through the college financial aid office, which will soon be announcing a schedule of student and parent orientations and financial aid counseling.

Garrett College had a tremendous impact on the county after it was started just 35 years ago. Many of its former students are now active in county businesses, education and government.

“It has been wonderful to work with the County Commissioners and the Board of Education to develop a project dedicated to meet the educational needs of Garrett County young people,” said Dr. Priselac. “We are elated with the interest in the scholarship program and we are prepared to provide the courses necessary to accommodate increased enrollment,” she said.

The document detailing policies and procedures of the scholarship is available at www. garrettcounty.org. For other information or assistance in applying, students and their parents can contact the Admissions Office at 1-866-55-GARRETT or admissions@garrettcollege.edu.
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Posted 4-10-06 -Foundation Changing
Under the direction of new Foundation Executive Director Bob Beach, the Board of Directors of the Garrett College Foundation, a 501(3) organization began searching for a way to enhance giving opportunities.

Reorganization resulted in creating a larger Foundation board with five officers, five directors and eleven at-large members. This allows for greater community participation, Beach said.

Two new members of the Foundation Board are Rob Sharps and Cristine Kepple.

“I believe in workforce development, including the education of our young people. This was identified as one of the highest priorities for economic development by the Economic Development Corporation, of which I am chairperson,” said Kepple. “Serving on the foundation is another way I can personally further educational ends initiated for Garrett County young people.”

Kepple is a partner with Eiswert, Janes and Kepple. She is a member of the Garrett County and Maryland State Bar Associations. She is chair of the Garrett County Development Corporation, chair of the Garrett County Memorial Hospital Foundation Planning Gifts Committee and assistant secretary of the Garrett County Fairboard.

“The college has been a very important institution to me,” said Sharps. “I taught there as an adjunct instructor and my wife, brother-in-law and younger son attended Garrett College.”

“It is a privilege that I was asked to serve on the Finance Committee. It is somewhere I can contribute my experience,” he said. “The foundation is trying to get more community awareness and continue to build scholarships. I hope make sure it is invested for scholarships and long term growth.”

Sharps, who is an investment executive with Primevest Financial at First United Bank and Trust is also a Board member of the Garrett County Memorial Hospital Foundation. Because of his interest in education, he serves on the Advisory Committee on Education (ACE) and is President of the Southern High School Alumni Association.

Ann Smith is the scholarship chairperson, Carissa Rodeheaver is the Chairperson for Membership and Phil Rodeheaver is the Finance Chairperson. Dr. Duane Cummins is the chairperson of Development. Also serving on the board are Garrett College President Stephen J Herman and college Dean of Administration Mike Kilgus.

“The Foundation intends to take a spirited approach to fundraising opportunities,” said Beach.

A six month strategic plan was approved. It includes several fund raising events beginning with the farewell dinner for retiring President Herman scheduled for June and the 35 th Anniversary Inaugural dinner address by the new President of Garrett College, tentatively scheduled for November.

Besides its fundraising activities, the foundation awards competitive merit and need based scholarships to individuals to pursue higher education at Garrett College. These scholarships, valued in excess of $50,000, are awarded to approximately 70 students each year.

Individual and corporate donations also allow the continuance of the Innovative Partnership in Technology Program and other significant programs at Garrett College, Beach said. These donations are matched by the State of Maryland. The donations and endowment funds have garnered more support from the Carl delSignore Foundation, Inc; First United Bank and Trust; Susquehanna Bank; Mettiki Coal, LLC; and Farmers and Merchants Bank and Trust.

The Foundation office is located in the Continuing Education Building at Garrett College. Additional information is available by contacting Beach at 301-387-3100 or rbeach@garrettcollege.edu.
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Posted 4-7-06 -2006 Summer Institute

“Want to get paid to have fun this summer?” That is the question being asked to seventh to 12 th grade students.

The Summer Institute is offering the opportunity for 7 th to 9 th graders to earn $200 and for 10 th to 12 th graders to earn $400. All expenses are paid in addition to the stipends of $200 or $400.

Focusing on Math, Science and Technology, the four-week residential summer institute will offer hands-on learning experiences designing materials used in everyday life.

Students will have fun while learning about real world materials, polymers, composites, ceramics, and various other materials, including those used in sports equipment, during the Institute, July 9 through August 5, at Garrett College.

The four-week residential program will feature four inquiry based units developed at Northwestern University. A highlight of the program will be a real life space shuttle launch. In the ceramics module students will learn about the science of ceramics, important for a wide range of electrical applications. Students will also create a transistor similar to those in home computers.

Summer Institute students will learn about the advantages of composites vs. pure materials. Each class will design a prototype composite and make a super-strong yet lightweight fishing pole. During the polymers program, students will learn about many uses of plastics from food packaging to medicine, and they will create a polymer-based humidity sensor. Also, students will explore materials used in athletic equipment, as well as analyze how these materials interact with specific surfaces during play. They also will design materials for a new game.

Approximately 60 to 90 students will attend the Summer Institute. Special evening and weekend programs are planned for Deep Creek Lake and the surrounding areas.

Applications should be sent to the Maryland Summer Institute. The deadline to apply is May 6.

More information is available at www.mwmmd.com.
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Posted 3-29-06 - New County Scholarship Program

Garrett College, McHenry, Maryland announced today that its County Commissioners had approved a scholarship program that would make attendance at Garrett College tuition free for the county's graduating high school seniors. The county appropriated $275,000 for the first year of implementation of the program.

“ Today Garrett County sent a message to America,” said Stephen Herman, President of Garrett College. “I want to credit the Board of Garrett County Commissioners and Director of Economic Development Jim Hinebaugh for their visionary leadership.  Any community that wants to compete for good jobs needs to invest in the training, knowledge, and skill base of its workforce.  Garrett County took that step.  The College is very proud to be part of this extraordinary scholarship program.”

A little more than a decade ago, this Appalachian county's unemployment rate was in the double digits. With a population of slightly more than 30,000 and an economy dependent to a great extent on tourism, few opportunities seems to exist for county youngsters.

Various efforts by the Department of Economic Development, along with the educational systems have helped improve the economic base of the county to the point that young people can at least find a job without leaving. Now the effort is to improve the earning power and lifestyle of citizens in this mountainous corner of Maryland. Garrett College had a tremendous impact on the county after it was started just 35 years ago. Many of its former students are now active in county businesses, education and government. Cooperative efforts and partnerships with other educational systems have continued to provide more services to the people of Garrett County. Now, this new scholarship initiative will provide more opportunity for county youngsters to pursue higher education and expand their future potential.

Garrett College expects its market penetration to rise to 75% of high school graduates attending college. Because high school programs offered jointly between the Garrett County Board of Education and Garrett College are included in the scholarship program, a significant percentage of high school graduates are expected to enter college with advanced standing, reducing the time to earn a degree.

"This is a wonderful opportunity to expand opportunities for our graduates to attend college," said Dr. Wendell Teets, Superintendent of Garrett County Schools. "Also, this should result in a more skilled base for our workforce in the county."

This is especially important in light of the $12.7 billion cut from the student loan programs in recent federal legislation. Attending a community college cuts the cost of secondary education considerably, allows time for students to decide which career path is right for them and lowers student loan bills. The diploma from the four-year college does not identify graduates as transfer students.

“This is a landmark program.” said Ernest Gregg, Chairman of the Garrett County Board of Commissioners. “This scholarship program is an important enough issue that it will be funded from general funds. We had this idea before, but now believe we have the county general fund revenue to support this program. In order for people to be in a position to command higher salaries, they need to bring better work place skills to their employers.”

“Approximately three out of four jobs offered by the industries coming into the county require more than a high school education,” said Commissioner David Beard, a teacher for 34 years. “This will help our young people get there.”

"I've always been an advocate for the people who struggle to pay their bills and keep things together," said Commissioner Fred Holliday. "I'm pleased that this program will give kids from those families a chance to go to college and hopefully have a better life." The Commissioners Scholarship Program is to be part of a full student aid package covering the cost of tuition and combined fees at Garrett College. The direct savings due to two years of scholarship funding at Garrett College is approximately $6,000, said Dr. Herman. "The indirect saving resulting from getting the first two years at the local community college is much higher, depending on the institution the student would otherwise have attended."

The program will be effective for the Fall 2006 semester. Garrett College will administer the program wi