Make your transition to college life easier by learning to navigate the system and by becoming involved on campus. We have planned a full day of college related activities designed to familiarize you with important college topics.

Click here to register for Orientation.

Have questions?  Email us at:  orientation@fmcc.edu

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Make your transition to college life easier by learning to navigate the system and by becoming involved on campus. We have planned a full day of college related activities designed to familiarize you with important college topics.

Click here to register for Orientation.

Have questions?  Email us at: orientation@fmcc.edu

The post Fall Orientation for Commuter Students appeared first on Fulton-Montgomery Community College.

TRIO Students

Fulton-Montgomery Community College announced a total of 485 candidates for graduation this Friday, May 17 including 31 students from the Nursing program, 11 students from the Radiologic Technology Program, and 39 students from the TRIO program. Although three separate groups, many of these students worked daily with one another sharing similar classes and taking advantage of support services offered through FM such as TRIO SSS. TRIO is funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Education and participants, many of whom are first generation college students, receive academic and personal support such as one-on-one academic counseling and advice tailored to their needs. Significant to note, each of the 31 Nursing program graduates received support from the federally funded HEAL TH grant, a U.S. Department of Labor American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) grant. The HEALTH Grant was designed to assist unemployed and incumbent workers into the healthcare field. FM was ranked among the top five grantees across the nation.

Rad Tech Students

Nursing Students

“Being a part of the HEALTH grant has been amazing. This opportunity has changed my life and my family’s. I am not eligible for student loans because I have maxed out with another degree, a degree that has not enabled me to find a job. If it were not for the HEALTH grant I would not have been able to become a nurse. The support from the staff has been a huge bonus. Laura Lander, Coordinator of HEALTH Grant; Jean Karutis, Director of Grants and Grant Funded Programs; and Lacey Arduini, Achievement Advisor, were always available when I needed them for anything. They have done all they can to ensure my success as well as the success of my classmates. I am very grateful at the opportunity to be a part of the HEALTH grant and will never forget the hard work and dedication put into this program by the staff. I came into the program unable to find a job and I am leaving with a career providing more possibilities and options than I could have ever imagined!” stated Julie Murphy, FM Nursing Graduate, Class of 2013.

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As we wave goodbye to our students and wish them a happy summer, we are left with silent reminders of good times had by all. The halls are empty now, but the mud spots in the Quad from the recent “Foam Dance Party” are just one of the many signs of a successful year in Student Activities.

2012-2013 was an incredible year to be at Fulton-Montgomery Community College. The expansion of student housing, renovation of the cafeteria, and the grand opening of Raiders Cove, has made our campus much more accommodating to the nearly 300 residential students living here.

This year, the campus has come alive at night due to the work of two Campus Activities Assistants, John Roth and Meghan Power, who work seven nights a week coordinating events on campus. The partnership between Student Activities and Residence Life helps to ensure there is always something fun for FM students to do, day and night.

On our way back from an end-of-the-semester hiking trip to Vrooman’s Nose in Middleburgh, the bus was filled with chatter as we took back roads through Montgomery County. The students, who were all New York City residents, loved hiking and spending the afternoon outside. “Now I understand why people live here,” said one student. “I love it here, I don’t want to graduate,” said another. These comments have been the resonating thoughts this semester in both Residence Life and Student Activities. Students admit to feeling comfortable with the campus and are becoming engaged outside of the classroom. An energized vibe is apparent now, when walking through FM’s College Union Building. Residential and commuter students are staying and returning to campus for the activities that are being planned. They are flooding the Student Activities office with ideas for programming and are excited about upcoming events.

“The key to successful programming is to make it as diverse as possible,” says Gwen Ossenkop, Student Activities Coordinator. “We have really tried to create activities for all populations here on campus.  We have had everything from western-themed carnivals to student/faculty involvement with the Harlem Rockets entertaining basketball game.”

This year FM has witnessed the creation of four new clubs on campus: The Freestyle Club where students perform improvisation, the Think Peace Club geared toward civility on campus, the OMEVO club designed to assist incoming freshman in feeling connected to the campus, and the Gardens and Trails Club whose main focus is the beautification of the campus.

With the constant collaboration between Residence Life and Student Activities, FM’s résumé of events is certain to grow! Looking forward to the fall semester, students are sure to enjoy all that 2013-2014 has to offer!

Audrey Egelston is Assistant Director of Residence Life and Gwen Ossenkop is Student Activities Coordinator.

The post Student Activities – Looking Back and Forward appeared first on Fulton-Montgomery Community College.

Any person interested in signing up or learning more about this degree program should contact Andrea Scribner, Education and Career Planning Specialist, at (518) 736-FMCC (3622), ext. 8161 or andrea.scribner@fmcc.suny.edu. Applications are due by June 1.

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Tina Mangino-Coffey, President, Mangino Chevrolet; David Groesbeck, General Manager, Mangino Chevrolet; Lesley Lanzi, FM Foundation Chief Advancement Officer & Executive Director (inside vehicle); Golf Committee Co-Chair & Director of FM’s Information Technology Department Gregg Roth; and Fox Run Golf Pro Rich Scott next to a 2013 Chevy Camaro, this year’s featured hole-in-one vehicle.

FM will be hosting its 20th Annual Golf Classic on Wednesday, May 22 at Fox Run Golf Club in Johnstown. This year’s tournament will feature the 2013 Chevy Camaro as the hole-in-one vehicle sponsored by Mangino Chevrolet of Amsterdam. This is the seventh year Mangino Chevrolet has graciously sponsored the hole-in-one vehicle.

The Annual Golf Classic is the College’s main fundraiser to support its mission and goals. Monies raised through this year’s event will directly assist FM in continuing to raise funds for Raiders Cove, a modern-day gathering space for students located in the vacant pool area on-campus featuring a wireless internet café, an entertainment stage area, and a lounge with gaming tables and flat screen TVs.

Tournament registration is $160.00 per golfer. To register or for further information, contact FM’s Foundation Office at (518) 736-FMCC (3622) ext. 8020.

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Curriculum at FM is evolving to keep pace with changing student needs and interests, emerging in-demand fields and occupations, and the employment trends of our local and regional economy.  An integral part of the curriculum design and development process is the regular input gathered from program advisory councils and the DACUM (Developing a Curriculum) process.  The DACUM process brings together subject matter specialists from industry to work with a trained facilitator to identify and analyze key occupational characteristics and trends that program faculty use as part of new program development or curricula revision.

Recent DACUMs and advisory meetings have identified advancements and trends in healthcare and associated medical practices that are creating expanded career entry opportunities.  Other DACUM processes have pointed to technology innovations that require increasing levels of support in the interconnected global workplace.  In addition, emerging media trends prompted program development and redesign to address the growing use of interactive media technology and the need for students to create, design, and communicate using multiple media devices and software across multiple platforms including print, film, web, television, and radio. 

What does all of this mean?  It means that at FM, we recognize these rapid changes in technology and we respond to them.  After all, it is in our Mission to provide responsive programs.   With that, FM will be offering four new programs this fall.  They include: Communications and Broadcast Media A.S., Computer Networking A.A.S., Digital Communications and Transmedia A.A.S., and Health Sciences A.S.

The Health Sciences A.S. program will prepare graduates to continue their studies in fields such as Chiropractic, Clinical Laboratory Technologist, Dentistry, Forensics, Health Counseling, Medical Imaging, Medicine, Nutrition, Optometry, Pharmacy, Podiatry, Veterinary Medicine, and many others.  The program is a multidisciplinary approach that is well-rounded in the area of the natural sciences, social sciences, communication, and health. 

The Computer Networking A.A.S. program will emphasize practical problem-solving skills, the use of computers, networking technology, and written and oral communication skills to achieve a versatile computer networking background.  Upon graduating from this program, students will have the ability to adapt to the ever-changing IT industry.

The Digital Communication and Transmedia A.A.S. program is designed for students with a variety of career goals including graphic design, digital publishing, web design and animation, television, film, and interactive media.  Students will learn to communicate across a range of media platforms, from traditional graphic communication and design concepts to digital workflows and software tools for social media audiences.

Communications is a way to convey information across a multiplicity of mixed media as part of a transmedia process.  The Communications and Broadcast Media A.S. program will help students understand the history, economics, social impact, and employment opportunities of the mass media and teach them how to use digital media concepts to communicate effectively. 

“As technology continues to grow and change, so do the needs of our students and our employers,” says FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger.  “Adding these four new programs is just a starting point to meeting such needs.  By continually revamping programs through the DACUM process, adding new programs, and updating our already state-of-the-art labs, we aim to help more students graduate into the working world with a competitive edge.” 

To learn more about these new degree programs, contact the Admissions Office at (518) 736-FMCC (3622), ext. 8301. 

Diana Putnam is Dean of Business, Technology and Health Professions and Amy Radik is Coordinator of PR & Marketing.

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Freestyle Club members Andy Haag, Amada Buckner, Chartwells Food Service Staff member Dave Milanesi, FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger, Abigail Jock, Club president Idamia Thomas, club treasurer Brad Scott, FM Assistant Professor Jason Radalin with daughter CeCe, Evan Ladd with Dr. Swanger and Evan’s dog Cassie, and in the tank is Alyza Scott

Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s Freestyle Club held a “Dunking Fundraiser” on-campus. For $1.00, students had three chances to dunk a college official, including FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger.

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Outgoing SGA Executive Board Members sit together for their last awards dinner together. Left to right: SGA Vice President Dongdong Lui, Student Trustee Adam Shumway, SGA Secretary Dana M. Stortecky, and SGA Sophomore Senator Jeff Reid

Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s Student Government Association (SGA) hosted its 19th Annual SGA Awards Dinner in Raiders Cove, the College’s new student social venue. With over 30 clubs on FM’s campus, the event recognizes Club Senators, Club Advisors, Distinguished Senators, Dedicated Clubs, Sic Itur Ad Astra Clubs of the Year, SGA Advisors, and had new awards to present.

For the first time, SGA Scholarships of $100 each were awarded. Awards were given to John Conley, Angie Dutcher, Courtney Lee, Heather Kowalczyk, and Jay Chapman. To be considered for a scholarship, a member of the professional staff must make a nomination to the SGA Executive Board and the Executive Board makes final selections. One of the main criteria is that the student must be an active club member on-campus.

The Tim Law Memorial Recognition Award was presented to Leishla Bouchard. This award was named in memory of Tim Law, a student who passed away in 2002, and recognizes an active and involved international student.

The Sic Itur Ad Astra (Such is the way to the stars!) Awards were presented to the Business Club, Communications Club, Elec Tech Club, Hands for Animals, G.L.O.W. (Gay, Lesbian, or Whatever), M.I.S.A. (Medical Imaging Student Association), Musicians Club, Phi Theta Kappa, Society for the Study of Modern Visual Culture, Student Activities Board (S.A.B.), Student Art Guild, and the Student Nurses’ Association. Sic Itur Ad Astra Awards recognize outstanding contributions to campus and community service as well as the commitment to student leadership.

The Dedicated Club Awards were presented to A.W.A.R.E. (Awareness. Wellness. Advocacy. Respect. Education) and the Gardens and Trails Clubs. Both clubs had a representative at every Senate meeting.

The Distinguished Senator Awards were presented to M.I.S.A.’s Alexander Aguero and S.A.B.’s Denzel Gordon. A distinguished senator is the same person who represents his or her club at Senate meetings (rather than have substitutes attend).

The Bill Pierce Award was presented to SGA Advisor and Associate Professor of Biology Mike McDarby. This award is given annually to an SGA Club Advisor who goes beyond the call; an advisor who leads by example, and carries on the tradition of excellence established at FM by Bill Pierce.

The SGA President’s Award was presented to David Strausser. Strausser was selected by SGA President Aaron White to receive this award as he has been helpful, active, and involved with clubs and the SGA. This was the first time such an award was presented.

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Assistant Professor of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation Dr. Tom Rogan with students in the Athletic Performance class held in the College’s newly renovated large gym

Fulton-Montgomery Community College has purchased new spinning bikes for academic and continuing education classes, as well as for student recreational opportunities.

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As the President of Fulton-Montgomery Community College it is my job to continually think about the future. What will FM look like ten years from now? How will we need to adapt to our students? What programs will we need? What won’t we do? I, in conjunction with the Board of Trustees, Leadership Team, and college community, will wrestle with these questions in an attempt to lay the groundwork for the future.

There are always predictions of the future; but, they are just that – predictions. They are not facts or truths. They are what we believe will happen. For example, fifteen years ago there were articles in national papers and journals predicting college campuses would be empty wastelands of crumbling buildings; or perhaps, repurposed into some other function for the community. The demise of the college campus, so it was said, was due to the impact of distance learning technologies; everyone would be taking classes on-line from the comfort of their home or office.  However, that prediction has not happened. College campuses have grown and, in fact, most of the students who are taking distance learning classes, at least at community colleges, are also taking classes on campus.

So, what will education look like ten years from now? I highly doubt that higher education will lose the need for a physical place, the actual campus, with faculty and staff who interact with students in classes and on a person-to-person basis. However, how we teach will change, even more than it has to date.

Technology is ever-advancing and our students with it. Students multitask by watching TV, while texting friends, reading an assignment on their computer or tablet device, and checking their Facebook account. Students will have a very difficult time focusing on one thing at a time; for example, a faculty member giving a lecture.  Education will need to keep up with technology, providing students the opportunity to multitask while learning in the classroom.

Faculty may need to provide “lectures” in small increments and then ask students to search the web for examples, case studies, or counter arguments. They will need to utilize the vast amount of web video available to educate and entertain students. Group work will continue to grow in its importance in higher education. Students will need to interact with each other to learn to communicate face-to-face and not just by texting.

The impact of this prediction, if I am correct, means that FM will have to invest in even more technology for our classrooms. We will need to rethink classroom furniture to something that is easily moved around for small group work, for lecture, and for media presentations. We will need to create more group meeting spaces for students. We will need to expand our web presence so that students have access to classroom materials 24/7.

FM will need to continue to remain a “high touch” environment because students will need more nurturing than ever before.  While we continue to gravitate toward technological communications, students will starve for personal connections. Humans use technology, but we’re social beings at our core.

FM will continue to think about the future and prepare for it as best we can in order to serve our students and community. With any luck, we’ll be right.

Dr. Swanger is President of FM.

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FM Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Greg Truckenmiller, FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger, Cobleskill Officer-in-Charge and President of SUNY Delhi Dr. Candace Vancko, and Director of SUNY Cobleskill Professional and Continuing Education Anita Wright sign the Memorandum of Understanding for Seamless Partnership Program at SUNY Cobleskill’s campus.

Fulton-Montgomery Community College representatives joined SUNY Cobleskill officials to sign the Memorandum of Understanding for Seamless Partnership Program, allowing FM graduates to enroll as students in baccalaureate degree programs offered by SUNY Cobleskill. The agreement provides an opportunity for FM grads to attend upper-division Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA) courses on Saturdays on FM’s campus, if a minimum cohort number is achieved. Eligible FM students will also be able to attend the Weekend College cohort programs on the SUNY Cobleskill campus. Weekend College at SUNY Cobleskill offers courses leading to the Bachelor of Science (BS) degree completion for Early Childhood Studies: Birth to Age 5 and a BBA (Bachelor of Business) in Financial Services and Business Administration.

“Community college graduates, who are looking for an accessible face-to-face program that fits with career and family responsibilities, tend to thrive at SUNY Cobleskill’s Weekend College,” said Anita Wright, Director of SUNY Cobleskill Professional and Continuing Education. “Our weekend, cohort model, is a group of students who move through the classes and phases of the program together. This allows them to share their knowledge and experiences in a supportive, academic environment.”

This agreement will offer FM students the opportunity to participate in seamless partnership programs after graduating from FM providing they meet the admission requirements stated in the agreement. The cohort model on which these programs are based offer students the opportunity to move through the courses and phases of the program together. Classes will be offered on Saturdays in eight week blocks, which is ideally suited to working adults. Students accepted into a cohort will enroll as matriculated students in SUNY Cobleskill upper-level degree programs.

“I am very excited about this opportunity for our graduates to pursue a baccalaureate degree on the FM campus. I feel that SUNY Cobleskill is an ideal partner for FM and a great fit for our students,” states FM Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Greg Truckenmiller.

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“The Summer Camp Fair will be a fun event for local families to learn more about different summer programs available to young people,” says Audrey Egelston, Assistant Director of Residence Life and FM’s Summer Academy Coordinator.

For more information on how your organization can participate, contact Egelston at Audrey.Egelston@fmcc.suny.edu or call (518) 774-1946.

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Fine Arts Professor and Gallery Director Joel Chapin, FM student art show winners Ashley Smith, Mark Wood, Blair Comstock, Taylor DeSantis, and FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger at the artist’s reception. The group is standing by Wood’s large scale wood and metal sculpture.

The annual spring juried exhibition featuring the art works created by Fulton-Montgomery Community College students will be on display in the College’s Perrella Gallery now through May 10. The exhibition marks the culmination of the academic year for student artists at FM and contains 41 works of art selected from over 140 works submitted for judging by two external jurors. The jurors this year were professional photographer Gerald Skrocki and Union College Professor Charles Steckler. The jurors made the selections for the exhibition as well as selection of four juror’s awards.

The exhibition features a broad selection of works created in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography and multi-media works. “It truly shows a broad representation of our students’ creative abilities, from technical skills to creative conceptual pieces,” said Joel Chapin, Professor of Fine Arts and Director of the Perrella Gallery. The exhibition has become a popular annual tradition since it first began in 1992.

An artist’s reception was held Friday, April 26 where the juror’s awards were presented. The winners of the two juror’s awards were: Blair Comstock for her charcoal drawing titled Fical Road and Mark Wood for his untitled large scale wood and metal sculpture. Two juror’s honorable mention awards were given to Ashley Smith for her photograph Miles Away and Taylor DeSantis for his pastel and colored pencil drawing titled That Feeling. A “People’s Choice” award will be presented at the conclusion of the exhibition for the art work that receives the most ballot votes cast by viewer of the exhibition. The cash awards were sponsored by the Student Art Guild of FM.

This exhibit continues through Friday, May 10. Perrella Gallery hours are Monday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with extended evening hours until 9:00 p.m. on Thursday or by appointment. The Gallery is closed weekends and holidays. For more information, contact Chapin at 736-FMCC (3622), ext. 8977.

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Jessica McCormick, a graduate of Amsterdam High School, came to FM during her senior year and participated in the College’s Early Admission program. 

“The availability of the Early Admission program was the main reason I decided to begin my studies at FM, I liked the idea of getting a head start on my college education while finishing high school,” says Jessica.  “I also liked that the classes were small, the tuition was affordable, and transferring to another SUNY institution after finishing my degree would be simple.”

A general studies major, Jessica took many courses in criminal justice.  “I decided to keep my studies within the Liberal Arts and Sciences: General Studies program so that I could transfer more easily into any major should I change my area of interest upon moving on to a four-year school,” she says.  “However, I did take many criminal justice courses because I love helping people.  I knew that I wanted to be in a career where I would be making a difference in the community and a criminal justice focus had me heading in the right direction.  Once I took one course with Professor Paul Giudilli, I was hooked.  He taught with such passion that it was evident he had a great deal of real-world knowledge regarding the criminal justice subject matter.”

Enjoying the small classes and feeling as though she were a part of a close-knit family while on-campus, Jessica liked that she could easily get to know fellow students as well as all of her instructors.  Her friendships helped her to become more involved with campus activities.  She joined the Criminal Justice Club, the We All Unite Multi-Cultural Club, and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the national two-year college Honor Society.

After graduating from FM, Jessica earned a B.S. in Community and Human Services from SUNY Empire State College and a M.S. from the University of Cincinnati through their distance learning program. 

A resident of East Berne, New York, Jessica is currently employed as a crime analyst at the Albany Crime Analysis Center, which was her career goal after graduating with a Master’s degree.  She is a member of the International Association of Crime Analysis and a big fan of the arts.  “I enjoy all facets of art, even when I don’t have much time to spend doing it.  I love drawing, painting, and visiting museums,” says Jessica.

When speaking with Jessica about crime analysis, she says it’s nothing like you see on television.  “The only way to truly learn how to do the work of a real crime analyst is to earn a criminal justice degree,” says Jessica.  “What better place to start then right at your local community college, FM.  People probably have heard it over and over but there really is no better time to start your degree than now! No matter what age you are, if a degree in the criminal justice field is your goal, just do it.  Take one step, one class at a time if you have to.  The college offers small classes, excellent professors, and a great educational foundation.  Beginning your education at FM and later transferring to a four-year school also saves a great deal on tuition.  FM offers real hands-on experience and you learn from faculty who have actually done the work.  In my opinion, there’s no better start than FM.”

Amy Radik is Coordinator of Public Relations & Marketing

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FM Adjunct Math Instructor and TRIO Tutor Heather Airey holds the 10” of hair HFM BOCES student Gabby D’Antonino cut for Heather, which she will be donating to Locks of Love.

Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s Student Outreach Club and HFM BOCES Cosmetology Program partnered to sponsor a Locks of Love event on FM’s campus.

Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada under age 21 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. More information can be found at locksoflove.org

HFM BOCES Cosmetology program donated their time and expertise, providing free haircuts to those individuals who donated 10” or more of hair. For those not able to donate hair, other services including feather extensions, haircuts, and mini manicures were offered for a $10 donation. The event raised $550.00 for Locks of Love and collected eight usable 10” ponytails which will be made into wigs.

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Electrical and Computer Technology Instructor Jeremy Spraggs, Dean of Business, Science, and Technology Diana Putnam, Mary Cedillo, and Electrical and Computer Technology Professor Richard Prestopnik at a recent Electrical Technology Club meeting where they surprised Mary with the good news.

Electrical Technology student Mary Cedillo was recently presented with the New York State Engineering Technology Association (NYSETA) Scholarship in the amount of $500.00 by Electrical Technology Professor Rich Prestopnik and Electrical and Computer Technology Instructor Jeremy Spraggs.  Both Prestopnik and Spraggs nominated Cedillo for the award.  

According to Prestopnik, Cedillo is an outstanding, dedicated and focused Electrical Technology student who has demonstrated in lecture and laboratory that she is very competent in both the theory and practical application of electronics. “She is extremely motivated as a student and can be found working in the lab frequently outside of scheduled class time, both as a student and as a lab aid. She is very reliable and is a person upon which a future employer will rely. In addition, her enthusiasm and energy has inspired incoming freshman to see the fun and value of pursuing a technical career,” states Prestopnik.

Cedillo is the treasurer for the Electrical Technology Club, a college sponsored club dedicated to further students’ interest in electronics and computers. “Her leadership in this role has dramatically moved the club forward in recruiting members and pursuing innovative projects. As part of the club’s leadership team, Mary played a major role providing opportunity for our students in her two years at FM to travel to the Boston science museum, attend a national electronics trade show, tour the R&D facility at Corning’s Sullivan Park complex and observe engineering projects at West Point,” states Spraggs.

Cedillo pursued an internship opportunity at Albany Nanotech and is currently working 24 hours per week in the cleanrooms at the facility.

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Technology Division Chair and Computer Science Associate Professor Marty Waffle, Electrical Technology Professor Rich Prestopnik, FM Alumnus Gregory Jepsen, FM Alumnus Jason Bowers, Technology Instructor Jeremy Spraggs, FM Alumnus Darren Ranaldo, Computer Science Professor Frank Yunker, Computer Science Instructor Rob Salkin, Multimedia Assistant Professor Bob Renda, and Computer Science Associate Professor Pete Wassel prior to the start of the TDAC Spring Session

Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s Technology Division Advisory Council (TDAC) recently hosted their Spring Session/Dinner Presentation for a number of the area’s technology-related workforce leaders.

The group brought in three FM technology program graduates to discuss their experiences while attending FM and where their degree has led them: Jason Bowers, a 2011 graduate of FM’s Electrical Technology program and a 2005 graduate of FM’s Multimedia program is now a Facilities Gas Technician at GLOBALFOUNDRIES; Gregory Jepsen, a 2005 Computer Technology graduate is now a Senior Facilities Gas Technician at GLOBALFOUNDRIES; and Darren Ranaldo, a 2008 Computer Information Systems graduate, is now EPICS Administrator at Keymark Corporation.

These graduates gave guests an inside look at where a technology degree from FM could take you, gave their opinion on what the faculty can do to improve on the programs, and expressed gratitude for receiving the experience needed to take with them into the real world.

The mission of TDAC is to promote dialogue and guidance regarding all academic programs in the division. This may include but is not limited to discussion and suggestions related to improvement, expansion, innovation, software or equipment. TDAC is a group of professionals, representing a broad spectrum of technology-related employers in the Capital District region.

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Sarah Puffer

Sarah Puffer of Amsterdam has been selected to speak on behalf of the Class of 2013 at Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s 48th Annual Commencement exercises. Sarah has earned an A.A.S. in Nursing. She will receive her R.N. license this summer and will pursue a BSN/MSN at either SUNY IT or SUNY Upstate Medical University to become an acute care nurse practitioner.

Sarah was the Chapter president for PTK, the national two-year college Honorary Society; Student Government Association (SGA) secretary; and FM Foundation Board Student Trustee. She was awarded the Who’s Who of American Junior Colleges 2012; she was recipient of the Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home Award; and she was a member of Student Nurses’ Association and a Peer Tutor. She also served on the graduation speaker election committee and the academic integrity committee. Sarah was honored with the Phi Theta Kappa All-New York Academic Award and was a nominee for the Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence (2013). She is a 2002 graduate of Cobleskill-Richmondville Central School.

Employed at the Fulton County YMCA as a lifeguard and swim instructor, Sarah is the daughter of Amy King of Plattsburgh and Brian Puffer of Amsterdam.

FM’s Commencement Ceremony will be held Friday, May 17 at 7:00 p.m. in the Raiders Den of the Physical Education Building.

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FM Technology Instructor and Conference Coordinator Jeremy Spraggs, FM Associate Professor of Physics and Conference Speaker Jack Kohn, Keynote Speaker Dr. John Garver, FM Professor of Electrical Technology and Conference Coordinator Rich Prestopnik at NYSETA’s Spring Conference in FM’s Raiders Cove

Fulton-Montgomery Community College recently hosted The New York State Engineering Technology Association (NYSETA) Spring Conference. NYSETA is a professional organization representing the faculty and institutions in New York who teach engineering technology and technology. The Association provides a forum for ideas on engineering technology education; a review of the quality, content, and goals of engineering technology curricula; a formal vehicle of communication for engineering technology education; and information on careers in technology and links to schools of technology.

The day began with a welcome from FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger who stressed the importance of technical programs and the key role they play for our state and our nation’s future. He also thanked the attendees for the important work they provide for today’s students. Dr. Swanger was followed by a keynote presentation from Dr. John Garver, Wold Professor of Geology, Union College whose topic was “Adaptation to Change and Building Resilience in the Mohawk Watershed: Engineering Challenges in an Important Time of Change.”

After Dr. Garver’s presentation, attendees took part in one of several breakout sessions including such topics as “Architectural & Civil Technology: A New Approach – Placing Sustainability Within Reach” presented by Professor Edward Davis, Queensborough Community College; “FM Campus Architecture by Edgar Tafel” presented by Professor Joel Chapin, Fulton-Montgomery Community College; “Mechanical Engineering Technology: Teaching Impact Stress and Deflection in Strength of Materials” presented by Professor Ti Lin, Liu, RIT MMET Department; and several others. 

The day wrapped up with a dinner and networking banquet at the Johnstown Holiday Inn including a presentation from Christopher Borst, Associate Vice President for G450C Technical Operations College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE). Borst discussed 300mm technology development, 450mm industry transition status, and CNSE/New York State involvement in each (including educational and workforce training programs). Borst’s position in the 450mm consortium with IBM, Intel, Samsung, TSMC, and GLOBALFOUNDRIES gave participants first-hand information on the enormous impact the 450mm effort has for engineering technology programs and students.

On Friday, after a business meeting, the group toured the nearby Beech-Nut production facility. “We saw some impressive automated processing and packaging in a LEEDS Certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) operation,” says FM Technology Instructor Jeremy Spraggs.

Approximately 40 participants from across the State attended the conference.

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Electrical Technology students Darnnell Jeffers and Aaron White speak with Courtney Arduini, Lead Technical Recruiter, from GLOBALFOUNDRIES at the Annual Job Fair hosted by FM

Fulton-Montgomery Community College, in conjunction with FMS Workforce Solutions System and Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce, hosted a Job Fair on-campus last week.

“The job fair brought over 55 employers and over 350 job seekers from the FM community and surrounding counties,” said Andrea Scribner, FM’s Education and Career Planning Specialist. “It was great to see all of the interaction between job seekers and employers; it is one of several events that bring community members to our campus. Some job seekers that registered already had interviews set up prior to arriving. This event is valuable not only to job seekers, but to employers as well as it gives them a good pool of applicants. There were some employers that were looking for students to hire for temporary summer positions and those that were looking for permanent, upper level positions within their companies.”

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    We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect. – Aldo Leopold

Eco-what?  This is a common response when one mentions the term Ecopsychology.  For some it conjures up images of Vegans wearing tie-dyed shirts, hugging trees, and eating mung-bean sandwiches. The concept seems a bit too “touchy-feely” for many.  This whole issue of “being in touch with nature” can seem a bit strange, even unnatural.  We often do not see ourselves as part of an interdependent ecosystem, but as the dominant force that controls it.  This perspective, or ecocentrism, poses many problems both for us and the planet as a whole.

So how do we encourage people to invest in developing an appreciation of our relationship with nature? This is where Ecopsychology comes in. Our individual and collective attitudes determine the way we relate to each other and to the world around us. Ecopsychology explores the human-nature relationship. By viewing psychology within an ecological context, the relationships between mental, physical, and environmental health are examined within a framework of interdependence.  From the perspective of Ecopsychology, a healthy ecosystem is reflective of a healthy human psyche.  To heal our planet, we must heal our individual and cultural psyche by developing healthy relationships with each other and with the animals, plants, and resources that make up the ecosystem to which we belong. Sound a bit vague?  It becomes clearer when one practices it.  A walk in the woods or a garden, while practicing awareness of the world around us, makes all the difference in understanding the concept. 

Why is all this important?  Well, let’s look at an issue that touches many of us.  We are in the midst of an epidemic of largely preventable life-style diseases, such as diabetes, that create a great deal of unnecessary suffering and drastically increase health care costs.  This crisis is directly related to consuming in a manner that is detrimental to our physical and emotional health, and the health of the environment.   Likewise, our daily consumption of pesticides, fossil fuels, plastics, and many other products contributes to poor health and environmental degradation.  The challenge becomes living in a manner that supports both our health and the health of the ecosystem in which we live.

So what can we do?  We can begin to raise awareness about the issues we face.  Providing  a future for the coming generations, meaning all inhabitants of this planet, requires changing our relationship with the world around us and learning to live sustainable lifestyles.  There are plenty of opportunities to work on this at the college, local, and global level.  Some possibilities include FM’s Sustainability Committee, Outdoor Adventure Club, Gardens and Trails Club, the FM-Liberty Garden Project, Audubon Society, or the many other groups that focus on the environment.  Some simple steps you can take are: recycling, purchasing environmentally safe products, or planting a garden.   Little things make a difference and a great time to start making some changes is Earth Day on 4/22/13 or the Annual FM-Liberty Spring Clean-Up on 4/26/13. For an excellent source of ideas take a look at the Better World Handbook: http://www.betterworldhandbook.com/2nd/.  By caring for our planet, we are caring for ourselves.

John van Bladel is Instructor of Psychology at FM.

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Rebecca Cozzocrea

Rebecca Cozzocrea has been selected to receive Excellence in Professional Service. For nearly 13 years, Rebecca has served as Coordinator of Financial Aid at FM. When she first began her position, procedures in her office included paper mail tracking, looking up PELL awards on paper charts, and hand writing award letters. Under her direction, the office utilized EDExpress software to replace all paper methods. Rebecca has taken a leadership role with dozens of other improvements to keep our Financial Aid Office current including the implementation of both the new PowerCampus integrated computer system and PowerFaids financial aid computer system; working with Administration to create a Financial Aid Advisor position; managing a budget that has increased 70% over the last 12 years; and maintaining a clean internal audit for the last 10 years.

Rebecca takes an active role on-campus as she has served on the College’s Search Committee numerous times, Scholarship Committee, Alumni Steering Committee, TRiO Committee, Reunion Committees, and dozens of others. She has served on the College Senate and currently presents at 12 local high schools on the fundamentals of financial aid.In our community, Rebecca was a member of the Amsterdam Free Library’s Friends of the Library. She has served as Team Captain for Passionately Pink for the Cure, a Susan G. Komen fundraiser; Scholarship Chair for the local Dollars for Scholars Committee; and was a member of both the Greater Amsterdam School District Board and Bullying Task Force; and is currently a Greater Amsterdam School District PTA member and secretary.

Rebecca earned both a B.S. in Special Education and a M.S. in Education from The College of Saint Rose.

Joseph Marcuccio

Joseph Marcuccio has been selected to receive Excellence in Teaching. Joe, Professor of Graphic Arts and a professional photographer, has taught at FM for 28 years. Over the years, Joe has designed innovative and creative teaching methods centered on current technology and software available including the most current industry trends. He regularly surveyed the needs and potential of the Visual Communications Technology program through advisory committees and the DACUM (developing a curriculum) process. Through his guidance, new courses in digital photography were introduced along with course title updates and new program sequences. The program has won graphic designs and photography awards and continues to produce students that have a desire to be competitive in their field of study.

Joe consistently keeps his students engaged both in and outside the classroom. He finds it integral to the learning environment to offer hands-on demonstrations and brings guest speakers in to discuss the latest trends. He also organizes class trips to printing plants, museums, and graphic design businesses along with trips to open houses at such institutions as the Sage College of Albany, SUNY IT, and Rochester Institute of Technology as he strongly encourages his students to further their education and to take advantage of transfer opportunities.

Joe enlisted in the United States Navy after graduating Amsterdam High School where he worked as a Navy lithographer at the Navy Publications Service Branch Office in Guantanamo Bay Cuba.

His second assignment landed him on the aircraft carrier USS Independence CV62. Upon completing his tours of duty, Joe attended Rochester Institute of Technology and graduated with a B.S. in Print Management. Joe maintained his status in the Naval Reserve and served aboard other ships and at various naval stations over a 20-year period.

He received his retirement citation from the office of former Governor George Pataki and retired as Lithographer First Class in 1998. Joe later earned a M.S. from University at Albany.

“Becky and Joe have clearly demonstrated extraordinary dedication and service to FM and I congratulate them both on this deserved recognition,” stated FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger. Cozzocrea and Marcuccio will be publicly honored at FM’s Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 17.

Instituted in 1972 by the State University of New York, the Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence are System-level honors conferred to acknowledge and provide system-wide recognition for consistently superior professional achievement and to encourage the ongoing pursuit of excellence.

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