It is no secret that I have a firm belief that Fulton and Montgomery Counties must think regionally if we are going to compete for growth and progress in this economy. And yes, I believe that we have too many governments, authorities, school districts, etc. for the roughly 50,000 people in each county. However, we can think, and act, regionally, without having to take the huge leap of eliminating municipalities. We can do so through collaboration.

Fulton-Montgomery Community College is the result of regional thinking. Through a moment of lowering barriers and focusing on what would advance the region, a college was created that today, is strong and strives to serve the region in numerous ways.

Time and time again, we have seen that collaboration brings results that are far better than single entities can do by themselves. The recent vote by the members of the Fulton County and Montgomery County Chambers of Commerce to merge into one larger Chamber is a sign that collaboration can happen. The new Chamber will be the third largest in New York State. In past, Catholic Charities merged its two single county operations and now is a strong operation, stronger than many others. Additionally, the Fulmont Action Association is a strong not-for-profit in our region. These are just a few examples as there are others.

Thinking regionally will allow us to market to potential companies that we are here; we have the resources to meet their needs; we want them to be a part of our community; and we work together well for the betterment of our area. This is a far better message than those of bickering over water, sewer, and other issues created by man-made borders.

If we could begin to think regionally, local municipalities could get together now to discuss shared resources and costs rather than in the heat of the moment when a company is trying to expand, locate, or just stay in the region. Those calm and thoughtful discussions could take place with an eye toward making the region better for all of us, city and town dwellers alike.

It is my belief that focusing on regional thinking does, in fact, improve the lifestyles of everyone in the region whether they live in the cities, towns, or villages. By bringing jobs to the region, by supporting progress, by sending a business friendly message, we advance the entire region. By focusing on our small municipalities, we see the deterioration of our region, our cities, our towns, etc. Look at Amsterdam, Gloversville, and Johnstown today compared to six years ago; they are struggling. However, it is not too late. Each of these cities has the potential for a rebirth. I believe that taking a longer view and supporting regional thinking is the foundation for that rebirth of the cities.

The cities can be, and should be, the hub of social life in our region. Focusing on restaurants, coffee shops, small specialty stores, and social gathering experiences will be the rebirth of the cities as part of regional development. Collaboration will be key to that development.

Just as FM was born by a regional vision, this region can grow strong through regional thinking. Parochial thinking will eventually cause our collapse.

Dr. Swanger is President of FM.

Lady Raiders Basketball Player Champagne Hazel was presented with Female Athlete of the Year and Raiders Basketball Player Wynn Adams was presented with Male Athlete of the Year.

Athletes named to the All-Region 2nd Team include Mike Raftu for Men’s Soccer and Antonia Williams for Lady Raiders Basketball. Athletes named to the All-Region 3rd Team include Champagne Hazel for Women’s Basketball and both Wynn Adams and Jose Irizarry for Men’s Basketball. Athletes named to the All-Conference 1st Team include Cassie Brancato, Lady Raiders Volleyball; Maggie Mulligan, Lady Raiders Softball; and Antonia Williams, Lady Raiders Basketball. Athletes named to the All-Conference 2nd Team include Wynn Adams, Men’s Basketball; Champagne Hazel, Lady Raiders Basketball; Mike Raftu, Men’s Soccer; and Janine Sadjak, Lady Raiders Soccer. Jose Irizarry, Men’s Basketball, was named to the All-Conference 3rd Team.

The following athletes were inducted into the “Raider 3.0 Club,” student-athletes who earned a 3.0 GPA or higher: Brent Baker, Adrienne Barnett, Samantha Bartholf, Cassie Brancato, Alexandra Crankshaw, Amanda DeJesus, Tyshawn Dinkins, Stephanie Doyle, Colt Duppen, Hei Laam Fong, Chris Hernandez, Algasimu Jallow, Samantha Manoogian, Dominique Mitchell, Nicholas Natoli, Kate Nelson, Cheryl Osborne, Allison Ostrander, Aimee Reksc, Grace Rutagengwa, Janine Sajdak, Bridget Shoop, Qwatee Williams, and Ho Yi Yau.

Lady Raiders Volleyball Player Cassie Brancato was presented with Female Academic Athlete of the Year and Men’s Baseball Player Nicholas Natoli was presented with Male Academic Athlete of the Year.

Men’s Basketball Head Coach Ed Collar was named Mountain Valley Conference Coach of the Year and Region III Coach of the Year. In only his second season as head coach, Lady Raiders Softball Coach Dan Towne was named Mountain Valley Athletic Conference Coach of the Year and was nominated for Region III Coach of the Year.

“I commend and congratulate all of our players, our coaches, and our supportive administration for another outstanding athletic year,” stated Athletic Director Kevin Jones.

Athletic Director Kevin Jones, Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach Clyde Clymer, Men’s Athlete of the Year Wynn Adams (Men’s Basketball), Women’s Athlete of the Year Champagne Hazel (Lady Raiders Basketball), FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger, Men’s Basketball Coach Ed Collar

Coordinator for Student Athlete Academic Success Chris Rogers, Men’s Academic Athlete of the Year Nicholas Natoli (Baseball), Women’s Academic Athlete of the Year Cassie Brancato (Volleyball), and FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger

FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger, Coach of the Year Dan Towne (Softball), Coach of the Year Ed Collar (Men’s Basketball), and Athletic Director Kevin Jones

FM’s Early Admission Program allows qualified high school seniors the opportunity to fulfill some or all of their remaining high school requirements with college credits. This year 53 students from local high schools participated in the program.

Administrative Professionals, Business Club Students and their advisors, and Administrators gather for a fun group photo around FM President Dr. Swanger (lying down, center)

Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s Business Club hosted an Administrative Professionals Luncheon to honor and celebrate campus staff.

“The Administrative Professional staff at FM deserves this special recognition luncheon as a testament to all of their hard work and effort all year long,” said Human Resources Director Jason Rauch.

Approximately 50 Administrative Professionals, students, and administrators attended this year’s luncheon which the Business Club sponsors annually.

Eric Zinter, part-time security officer at the College and avid piano player, provides the entertainment for the annual celebration as principal account clerk Dale Wintermute joins him.

Do you have a mindset of providing service to others when you set out for school or work each day? We all have opportunities to have a positive impact on the people around us. At school it can be by participating in service projects or by just being helpful to others and practicing civility. At work, it may be in the form of direct responsibilities for customer service or by having an “attitude of service” to our co-workers and the people with whom we do business.

The Center for Employer Services at FM provides training that includes interactive activities to build strong customer service skills. We have broadened the scope of training by addressing the needs of the two types of customers that all businesses serve. External customers are the consumers of our products and services. Internal customers are employees and other people we do business with to accomplish the mission of the organization.

In order to provide great service, it is important to look at the needs of our customers. Through training we examine ways to meet and exceed the expectations of today’s customers in various business settings such as retail, healthcare, manufacturing, wholesale, distribution, and service based organizations. Improving communication skills is always a big part of elevating customer service. We need to ensure that we communicate with a welcoming and helpful tone. It is important to demonstrate to the consumer that we understand and care about their needs. Learning to practice active listening is also an important part of providing excellent service. Once we have a clear understanding of their needs, we must let the customer know that we have a sincere intent to respond in a timely and accurate manner.

Response time and follow through are known to be the most important things we can do to satisfy a customer. It is essential to train company representatives on how to focus their attention on the finer points and little details of service. Customer loyalty is often established through many small interactions with the people who represent the organization, not just a single aspect of service.

All of these best practices for interacting with external customers hold true for service to our internal customers. When we provide training on teamwork, we include the behaviors that mirror customer service. We all expect our co-workers, vendors and other people we work with to treat us like a valued customer. How do we know what consumers, co-workers and suppliers expect of us? Ask them! What is a reasonable response time? What additional information is needed? When expectations are clear it is much easier to satisfy the customer. Asking good questions is an important part of the customer service, communication and management training programs FM offers to employers.

Investing in training can sometimes be funded by grants. The Center for Employer Services is gathering information about the training needs of local employers for a SUNY Workforce Training Grant. If you would like to explore how that project can support the training goals of your organization, contact me at (518) 424-9370 or via email at Theresa.Craig@fmcc.edu.

Theresa DaBiere-Craig is the Outreach Representative for the Center for Employer Services at FM.

Ellie Fosmire

 

Dr. Dustin Swanger

SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher has convened a diverse group of professionals from across the Stateto focus on the topic of remediation in New York’s educational system. Several local leaders representing both high school and college levels have been asked to sit on the SUNY Taskforce on Remediation including Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s Learning Center Coordinator Ellie Fosmire, a member of both the New York Division of the National Association for Developmental Education (NADE) and the New York College and Learning Skills Association (NYCLSA), and FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger. Both Fosmire and Dr. Swanger will be asked to provide input and share advice and resources into SUNY’s plan to reduce the need for remediation and improve the outcomes of the current delivery methods.

“The charge of the SUNY Task Force on Remediation is to recommend the most effective strategies for ensuring that graduating high school students are better prepared for college and also recommend promising practices to ensure that SUNY students who complete developmental education are fully prepared to succeed in their credit-bearing college programs,” states SUNY Senior Vice Chancellor for Community Colleges and the Education Pipeline Johanna Duncan-Poitier.

Back row left to right: Students Armando Leocadio, Samantha Ronca, Jerimah Kelliehan, Diandra Perkins, Champagne Hazel, Study Lab Coordinator Shirl Doherty, Students Jigcara Grant, Talya Walker, and Ariel Baez.

FM’s TRiO Student Support Services held a luncheon in recognition of students of the program who are candidates for commencement to be held May 18. Approximately 160 TRiO participants, most of whom are first generation college students, receive academic and personal support through the federally funded program.

“These students have worked extremely hard to achieve the successful fulfillment of their dreams; attaining a college education,” said TRiO Study Lab Coordinator Shirl Doherty. “For many, it is the first step, because they have already been accepted into a four-year institution for next fall. It is a bittersweet time for TRiO staff. We are losing many students whom we have worked with very closely for four years. We wish them nothing but the best.”

TRiO Student Support Services is fully funded through the U.S. Department of Education. The program provides academic, financial and transfer advisement as well as professional tutoring in math and writing to a group of about 160 students on the FM campus. TRiO occupies a dedicated space on the second floor of the Evans Library which includes a classroom and a study lab with computers. TRiO participants must meet one of three specific eligibility requirements. They must be first generation college students, be income qualified, or have a documented disability. Students must apply and are admitted to the program as space permits.

Word is spreading quickly on-campus about The Community Outreach Club, a group of 20 students – and growing – whose mission is simple; to help others. Over the past two semesters, the hours they have spent volunteering are countless. Club president Ana Sofia Gonzalez Urrutia, a freshman, is a true leader, but a modest one at that. “Volunteering inspires me,” she says. “I am grateful to be able to help others.”

When Ana Sofia first started her studies at FM, she became aware of the various clubs open to all students, numbering over 30; however, she didn’t find exactly what she was looking for so she decided to start her own; hence, the birth of The Community Outreach Club.

“Ana Sofia showed up in my office to ask if I would be a club advisor,” says club co-advisor Kirsten Manzi. “She has such a positive attitude, so much energy, it would be impossible for anyone to say no to her. In fact, her enthusiasm is contagious; exactly what you would need to start a new club,” says club co-advisor Kirsten Manzi. “Christie Crawford was asked to co-advise. We attend the weekly meetings but only need to be there for support. Ana Sofia creates the agenda and rolls with it.”

The club’s community service has included a visit to Fulton County Center Rehabilitation and Health Care Facility in Gloversville where they played Bingo with the residents; participation in Gloversville-Johnstown KIWANIS’ Family Fun Day where they provided “Stuff A Buddy” stuffed animals to children (which were donated to the Community Outreach Club by FM’s Student Activities Board) and free face painting; assisting with the Locks of Love fundraiser held on FM’s campus; working the registration tables and assisting with decorating at various club events; and each week, they volunteer at a local soup kitchen. The club’s future plans include visits to Nathan Littauer Hospital to play with terminally ill children as well as visits to local animal shelters to help as needed.

While most people would rather spend their downtime relaxing in front of a television, Ana Sofia would rather help others. “My favorite quote is from Gandhi: Be the change you want to see in the world,” says Ana Sofia. “I am very thankful to be able to attend a college that allows change to happen, it humbles me greatly. In life, you have the opportunity to make your own moments. If I can touch someone else in a positive way through these moments, it makes me appreciate what I have that much more.”

Ana Sofia credits her club members and advisors with all they have accomplished to date. “Coming up with ideas of who we can help, when, and where, is a group effort. All of the members have a say. Our advisors help us brainstorm. Without complete support, this club would not exist. Inspiring others is what keeps us inspired,” she says.

If you or someone you know would like to see if The Community Outreach Club can help your organization, they would love to hear from you. You may contact Ana Sofia by emailing her at gonzalezanasofia@ymail.com or by calling one of her club advisors at 736-FMCC (3622) ext. 8163 (Christie) or ext. 8157 (Kirsten). Ana Sofia also encourages you to “like” the Club’s Facebook page entitled “Community Outreach FMCC.”

Amy Radik is Coordinator of Public Relations & Marketing at FM.

FM Dean of Arts & Sciences Dr. Shirlee Dufort, Rodney Schuyler, History Instructor Ted Marotta

Fulton-Montgomery Community College student Rodney Schuyler was selected as the first place winner for The Historical Society of the Courts of the State of New York’s annually sponsored David A. Garfinkel Essay Competition. SUNY and CUNY Community College students from around the State were invited to write an original essay on a specified topic of legal history. This year’s topic was “THE BLUE AND THE GRAY: NEW YORK DURING THE CIVIL WAR.”

Rodney, a student of History Instructor Ted Marotta, focused his essay on the role African-Americans played in the Civil War in pursuit of freedom and citizenship. It is entitled: Slave. Contraband. Soldier. Citizen. “I was very excited for Rodney when I learned he received first place,” exclaimed Marotta. “He’s one of my best students and he’s a real pleasure to have in class.”

Rodney, who has had a fascination with Civil War history from a very young age, was honored at the Law Day Ceremony held at the Court of Appeals Hall in Albany. He was presented with a $1,500 first prize by Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Fern Fisher.

Law Day was established in 1958 by President Dwight Eisenhower to mark the nation’s commitment to the rule of law. In 1961, Congress issued a joint resolution designating May 1 as the official date for celebrating Law Day, which is subsequently codified (U.S. Code, Title 36, Section 113). Every president since then has issued a Law Day proclamation on May 1 to celebrate the nation’s commitment to the rule of law. The American Bar Association is the official coordinator of Law Day.

The Albany Law Day Awards Presentation included remarks from Hon. Jonathan Lippman, Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals; Hon. Eric T. Shneiderman, Attorney General of the State of New York; and Vincent E. Doyle III, President, New York State Bar Association. Instructor Marotta and FM Dean of Arts and Sciences Dr. Shirlee Dufort attended the commemorative event

The Society was launched in 2003 by its Founder, former Chief Judge Judith S. Kaye, with the mission of preserving the legal and judicial history of New York. It seeks to foster public appreciation and a better understanding of the rich legacy of the New York courts, the legal profession, and their contributions to the State and the nation. The essay competition began in 2008 with the generous funding of Gloria and Barry Garfinkel.

“We appreciate the support of faculty and staff who are instrumental in getting the word out to students about this opportunity, and a special “Thank you” to the professors from different disciplines who advise students as they write their essays on a specific topic of New York’s legal history,” stated Andrea Garcia, New York State Unified Court System Office of Public Affairs.

Madina L. Alam of Johnstown has been chosen to speak for the Class of 2012 at Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s 47^th Annual Commencement exercises.

Madina has earned an Associate of Arts Degree in General Studies. She will continue her studies at SUNY Stony Brook majoring in Psychology. 

The graduate is an Honors student and a member of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the national two-year college Honorary Society.  She also served as a member of FM’s Community Outreach Club. She is a 2010 graduate of Johnstown High School. 

Madina is the daughter of Samsul Alam of Johnstown and Stephanie Alam of Amsterdam. Of note, both of Madina’s parents attended FM; her father graduated in 1992 with a Business Administration degree and continued on to earn multiple degrees including a B.S. in Math, Linguistics, and Business Administration and a M.S. in Higher Education Administration; her mother graduated in 1994 with a Liberal Arts degree and continued on to earn a B.A. in English and a M.S. in Education, and like Madina, was selected to speak on behalf of her graduating class.   

FM’s Commencement Ceremony will be held Friday, May 18 at 7:00 p.m. in the Raiders Den of the Physical Education Building. 

Student Artist Mercy Weiss

A People’s Choice Award of $100 will be announced after the show’s final date of Friday, May 11. Anyone interested in viewing the show, which features a broad selection of works created in drawing, painting, three-dimensional design works, photography, and multimedia works, between now and May 11, may cast a vote. Awards are provided by the Student Art Guild and the FM Graphic Arts Club.

Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; with extended hours on Wednesday evenings until 9:00 p.m. or by appointment. The gallery is closed weekends and holidays. For further details, contact Fine Arts Professor and Gallery Director Joel Chapin at (518) 762-4651, ext. 7-4111.

Student Artist Stephanie Holt with her two daughters Emilee and Kaityln. Stephanie had four pieces selected for the show including the painting in the photo as well as two acrylics and one charcoal. One of her pieces was selected for the Student Art Guild President’s Choice Award.

FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger; Student Artist Stephanie Holt who received the Student Art Guild President’s Choice Award; Student Art Guild President Steve Balogh; Student Artist Heather Kowalczyk; Student Artist Thomas Tambasco; Student Artist Jahna Church; Student Artist Mercy Weiss; and Fine Arts Professor & Perrella Gallery Director Joel Chapin

Club members and advisors from The Community Outreach Club, ECCHO, and The Music Club show their support of one another as ECCHO donates a basketful of money to Community Outreach and the Music Club presents a thank you card for their thankless volunteerism.

Meanwhile, members from the newly formed Music Club made an appearance to publicly thank The Community Outreach Club for volunteering at the Music Club’s first event, an evening talent show, which consisted of 23 musical acts on Friday, April 20. Members of the Music Club said the event could not have happened without the extra help from Community Outreach. “Community Outreach is a selfless group, plain and simple,” said Music Club vice president Chris Renda.

Jeanne R. So presents the award to FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger who accepted the award on behalf of the College.

Fulton-Montgomery Community College was recently presented with the United Way of Montgomery County Jeanne R. So Community Service Award at the 68th Annual Campaign Awards Celebration and Business Meeting held at the Raindancer Restaurant on Wednesday, April 25.

The award is given to an individual or group that has shown outstanding volunteer contributions throughout the entire community.

“The first week I arrived on campus nearly six years ago, I was asked by faculty and staff if the college could host a fundraiser for flood victims,” said Dr. Swanger. “That is just the kind of campus FM is, one of very generous faculty and staff. Not a day goes by that someone isn’t fundraising for or supporting a local organization. I am proud to be a part of such a giving college community.”

The exhibition features a broad selection of works created in drawing, painting, design three-dimensional works, photography and multimedia works. “The exhibition truly represents the scope of our student’s creative abilities, from technical skills to more conceptual pieces,” said Joel Chapin, faculty member and Director of the Perrella Gallery at FM. The exhibition has become a popular annual tradition since it first began in 1992.

An artists’ reception will be held on Friday April 27 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.; awards will be given at 7:30 p.m. 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 to be given are sponsored by the Student Art Guild of FM, a campus arts organization that promotes exposure to the creative arts on campus and in the community.

The art opening will be in conjunction with the premier of FM’s Theatre Arts Program production of The Putnam County Annual Spelling Bee which begins at 8:00 p.m. that evening.

The exhibit will run through Friday, May 11. Gallery hours are Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with extended hours on Wednesday evening until 9:00 p.m. or by appointment. The Gallery is closed weekends and holidays.

Dr. Paula Brown-Weinstock speaks to students and staff about the effects of domestic violence.

Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s Criminal Justice Program, in conjunction with Catholic Charities Montgomery County Domestic Violence and Crime Victims Services, held a Tree Dedication Ceremony to honor all victims of crime.

A Magnolia tree, donated by Catholic Charities Montgomery County Domestic Violence and Crime Victims Services, was planted near the College’s newly constructed Community Garden, a collaborative effort with Liberty Enterprises.

Approximately 50 students and staff members attended the dedication ceremony coordinated by FM Criminal Justice Alumna Chenda Ree Tim. Honored speakers at the event were Psychology Associate Professor Dr. Paula Brown-Weinstock, Criminal Justice Instructor John J. Armstrong, and Director of Public Safety Mark Pierce.

“This week is National Crime Victims’ Rights Week,” said Chenda Ree Tim, “as the purpose of this week is to advocate for more effective and enforceable rights; and specifically, today, is to honor those who have been or know others who have been victims of crime.”

Event organizer Chenda Ree Tim recognizes Catholic Charities Montgomery County Domestic Violence and Crime Victim Services and thanks those who attended the event.

At the end of the dedication, students grab a shovel to help complete the planting of the tree.

Fulton-Montgomery Community College has been preparing students for their future since 1964. We follow our slogan: “Futures Made. Here.” Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or an adult looking to continue your education, FM has something to offer. At FM, the caring and dedicated faculty and support staff are here to guide you through this process, no matter your starting point.

When you’re at FM, you have access to expert academic advising and transfer counseling. As the Evening Advisor, I have recently seen an increase in the adult or returning student population over the past few years. With the economy in tough shape, more unemployed and underemployed adults are seeking a new career and more opportunities, for themselves as well as for their families. With my position as Evening Advisor, I am available from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday evenings, to better serve your needs. We understand that working adults need the flexibility to juggle a daytime job, family responsibilities, and accessibility to the College. FM recognizes this need and offers several evening, Saturday, and online degree programs to fit any schedule.

FM offers over 44 degree and certificate programs designed to help you achieve your career and transfer goals. Our one-year certificate programs offer the opportunity to quickly gain an educational foundation combined with real-life, hands-on experience. Our A.A.S. (Associate of Applied Science) programs include internships or on-the job experience that will make any résumé stand out. Our A.A. and A.S. (Associate of Arts or Science) degrees enable students to seamlessly transition to a four-year institution.

Recently, FM hosted its annual Spring Open House, as well as several April Information Program Nights which highlighted our most popular degree programs including Criminal Justice, Nursing and Radiologic Technology, Multimedia Technology, Human Services, and Education. If you missed these events, it’s not too late to meet with any expert in our Admissions Office and start the free Admissions Application Process.

To help you jump start the process, FM is offering a wide variety of Summer courses to fit any schedule. Whether you’re a daytime or evening student or you’re interested in online courses, FM offers classes in May, June and/or July, depending on your schedule. At FM, we guarantee you personalized guidance and extensive resources to support your success. Small class sizes mean individual attention and the opportunity to know your professors and fellow students. Online, blended and off-campus classes (at our satellite site in the Riverfront Center in Amsterdam) make getting an education more convenient than ever before: learning that fits you.

FM serves approximately 2,800 students per year in credited programs. Our diverse student body brings together students from Fulton, Montgomery, and adjacent counties as well as Metropolitan New York City and twenty countries on five continents. We have something for everyone.

For more information, please visit www.fmcc.edu or contact the Admissions Office directly at (518) 736-(FMCC)3622, ext. 8301.
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Christie Crawford is the Outreach & Support Representative at Fulton-Montgomery Community College.

“This is an extremely exciting time for FM,” said FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger. “We are on a tight timeline to have these units delivered and in place for our fall semester and we seem to be right on schedule. These units will double our student housing capacity from 144 to 288. To date, we have 150 apartments reserved for students this fall and expect to have the remainder full by the first day of classes in September.”

The College broke ground for the new housing on December 5, 2011. This $7.1 million project is being funded through the U.S.D.A.

Director and Associate Professor of Nursing Bob Warner along with nursing faculty show what a typical simulation scenario would look like. In the photo, left to right: Assistant Professor Marcia Wojcik is demonstrating Incentive Spirometry; Associate Professor Warner is checking the patient’s blood pressure; Assistant Professor Sherry Warner is operating the simulator’s computer software; Instructor Lynne Illsley (kneeling) is checking her patient’s IV site; Nursing Lab Coordinator Thelma Chamberlain is listening to the patient’s heart; and Instructor Kathie Rohrs is checking the oxygen saturation of the patient.

As part of FM’s Nursing Program, students are required to participate in scenarios involving a high tech computerized simulator as the patient. The scenarios had the simulator patient exhibit various symptoms that the students had to treat. In addition, the simulator has been used during class time. Several nursing students function as the actual nurses while their classmates observe and take notes. The entire class then participates in the discussion afterwards.

FM Board of Trustee Member Jennifer Gardella, FM Students Jeff Reed, Aaron White, and Marie Thomas, FM President Dr. Dustin Swanger, Assemblyman Marc Butler, and FM Student Trustee Frank Ryan Jr. during a visit to the Legislative Office Building in Albany for New York Community College Trustees (NYCCT) Community College Advocacy Day

Fulton-Montgomery Community College will hold its 47th Annual Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 18 beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the College’s Physical Education Building. 560 candidates are eligible for this year’s Commencement including 33 international students from 7 countries including China, Ghana, Hong Kong, India, Latvia, South Korea, and Vietnam.

This year’s commencement speaker will be Assemblyman Marc W. Butler (R,C,I), a SUNY Potsdam graduate who has represented the people of New York in the State Assembly since 1995. He currently represents the 117th Assembly District, which includes Herkimer, Fulton and the eastern portion of Otsego County.

Assemblyman Butler has worked closely with New York’s agricultural community to harness what he sees as a catalyst to Upstate economic growth. As a member of the Agriculture Committee as well as the Subcommittee on Agricultural Economic Development and Farmland Protection, he’s argued repeatedly for New York’s competitive edge in unique agricultural markets. His unwavering support of New York’s family farms has earned him the distinction of being named in the NYS Farm Bureau’s “Circle of Friends” every year since his first year in office. He is also a member of the Higher Education and Insurance committees and was recently named the “Legislator of the Year” by the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association for his consistent record of supporting sportsmen and protecting Second Amendment rights.

Assemblyman Butler is one of only a few members of the state Legislature to staff and operate two district offices within his district, an example of his commitment to local constituent service. He is very involved with local organizations, and has been named by the Herkimer Area Resources Center as chairman of its “Life is Beautiful” campaign.

A lifelong resident of the Mohawk Valley, Assemblyman Marc Butler currently resides in the Village of Newport with his wife Susan. They have two children, Caitlin and Jeffrey and two grandchildren, Aydin and Emonnie.

For a $10.00 donation, HFM BOCES cosmetology students provide manicures to FM students, community members, and alumni.

On Tuesday, April 17, FM held a Locks of Love Fundraiser in the “Pit” of the Fine Arts Building. Locks of Love is a public, non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the U.S. and Canada under age 21, suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. The prostheses they provide helps to restore confidence and self-esteem.

The fundraising event was sponsored by FM’s Community Outreach Club and HFM BOCES Cosmetology Program. Cosmetology students provided their services free of charge and collected 8 usable (10″) ponytails from students and local community residents. The event raised a record $640. All proceeds will be sent to Locks of Love.

Assistant Professor of English Ken Vennette, seen above at railing, drops a monetary donation from the top of the Pit to Community Outreach Club Co-Advisor & Co-Coordinator of the Locks of Love event Christie Crawford

Pictured in the photo left to right: Lesley Lanzi, FM Foundation Chief Advancement Officer & Executive Director; Golf Committee Co-Chairs Eben Miller, Vice President Miller Printing and Gregg Roth, FM Director of Information Technology; Tina Mangino-Coffey, President, Mangino Chevrolet; Mike Coffey, Vice President of Operations, Mangino Chevrolet; and David Groesbeck, General Manager, Mangino Chevrolet, with a 2012 Chevy Camaro, this year’s featured hole-in-one vehicle.

FM will be hosting its 19^th Annual Golf Classic on Wednesday, May 23 at Rolling Hills Country Club in Fort Johnson.  This year’s tournament will feature the 2012 Chevy Camaro as the hole-in-one car sponsored by Mangino Chevrolet of Amsterdam.  This is the sixth 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 raising funds for its Raiders Cove Project, a modern-day gathering space for students which will be located in the vacant pool area on-campus and will include a wireless internet café, a stage area for various performances, and a lounge with pool tables and flat screen TVs.

Tournament registration is $150.00 per golfer.  To register or for further information, contact FM’s Foundation Office at (518) 736-FMCC (3622) ext. 8020.

Colleges and universities are each governed by a Board of Trustees. That Board has the rights, responsibilities, and authority required to set policy and lead the institution. However, colleges and universities also have a long-standing tradition of what is commonly called “shared governance.” This tradition and practice is often misunderstood outside of higher education, but it is something that truly makes colleges a participatory community. It provides for every constituent group on campus to have a voice. That voice, often through a “Senate,” provides recommendations on policies, institutional goals, curriculum, etc. through the President’s Office to the Board of Trustees for consideration. The Trustees remain the policy body.

The original structure of higher education, founded by the clergy, was one of collegiality. Faculty met to discuss the issues of the institution, curriculum, students, and to elect one of the faculty members to serve as the leader (president); all designed to be participatory.

“Shared governance” in a college or university guarantees a structure and process for strong and effective communication across the campus. It provides opportunities for input, collaboration and information sharing, particularly in the formation of policy or critical decision making for the future of the institution. The foundation of shared governance is the assumption that through the participation of all segments of the college community, the decisions made and the implementation of these decisions are of a higher quality than those of a traditional top-down governance system. Fulton-Montgomery Community College is dedicated to both the principle and practice of “shared governance.”

I believe shared governance makes colleges and universities better institutions. At FM, our College Senate has been doing great work over the past three years and has brought forth recommendations that make sense, are well thought-out, and improve the institution.

Effective shared governance a) fosters a mutual and shared understanding of the College’s Vision, Mission, and Core Values; b) focuses decision making on a foundation of creative problem solving, emphasizing solutions to issues; c) recognizes the expertise of each constituent group across the College; d) supports a system of continuous improvement of the College; e) supports open and respectful discussions in which information is shared with all constituents; f) fosters input and ideas from each constituent group on campus; g) supports a process in which all groups within the shared governance process have the time necessary to contribute to the decisions made; h) supports open communications between the various constituent groups on campus; and i) provides a system for reporting back the final decision made in an effort to keep all constituent groups informed of how their input contributed to the overall direction of the decision.

Over the years, some businesses have adopted similar models of decision making under the names of Total Quality Management, Lean Manufacturing, Black-Belt Six Sigma, or other names. The principles are the same – the front office does not always have the best answer to the problem. Sometimes the best people to determine how to improve the process are the people who perform the process every day.

Dr. Swanger is President of FM.

Technical Assistant Sue Sammons, Pamela Canary, and Outreach and Support Representative Christie Crawford

Prior to FM’s Annual Job Fair held April 11, the College hosted a series of “Job Fair Preparation Workshops” including résumé writing, interview tips, and job fair etiquette.  Students who participated in at least one of the workshops had their name entered into a drawing for a $100.00 Kohl’s gift card, sponsored by FM’s Business Club, to purchase a “career-minded outfit.”

Pamela Sue Canary, a Human Services major at FM, was the winner of the Kohl’s gift card and purchased a new business suit to wear to the Job Fair where she was set-up with a pending internship for a local non-profit agency and a pending interview with another local employer.

Pam expects to graduate from FM in 2013 and plans to continue to earn a bachelor’s degree.

The Annual Job Fair had a record number 500+ job seekers and nearly 60 employers in attendance.

Phi Theta Kappa New York Regional Team: Brianna Young (Fulton-Montgomery Community College), Harmonie Kobanghe (LaGuardia Community College), Edgar Romero (LaGuardia Community College), Timothy Gaura (Monroe Community College ), Joshua Freebern (Kingsborough Community College) Michael Adams, (Monroe Community College) Dr. Rene Rojas, Regional Coordinator, (Erie Community College)

Members of FM’s Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) chapter recent traveled to Nashville, Tennessee for the 94th Annual International PTK Convention.

With over 4,000 PTK members representing 587 community colleges from all over the world, two of FM’s PTK members, Brianna Young and Tomass Krilovs, were recognized for their efforts and service to the New York State Regional Team by being recognized as a member of a “Distinguished Regional Officer Team.”

PTK’s commitment to service and scholarship continues as FM winds down its spring semester, sponsoring the Red Cross Blood Drive held in FM’s College Union Thursday, April 26, in collaboration with the GLOW Club, and the Annual Academic Awards Ceremony on Thursday, May 17 at 7:00 p.m. in the FM Theatre.

Tomass Krilovs