DAYTONA STATE COLLEGE MAGAZINE - MIKE CURB
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
DAYTONA STATE
COLLEGE MAGAZINE
Vol. 6 • No. 2 • WINTER 2021
MIKE CURB
An Extraordinarily Influential Life
Mike and Linda Curb
CONTENTS
Vol. 6 • No. 2 • WINTER 2021
18
Curb donates $750,000
30
Foundation Donor Spotlight
Mike Curb’s association with Daytona State goes back to Smyrna Yacht Club, Outriggers Tiki Bar & Grille and
the mid-2000s when he made his first gift to the College. Volusia County Women Who Care represent hundreds
Now, he has added a commitment of $750,000 in support who support DSC students each year.
of students in music, entertainment, art and emergency
services/criminal justice.
8 UpSkill Now! 8 10
Daytona State News Students In Motion Learning Scene
Volusia and Flagler county residents Alex Moker was one of only 50 Daytona State continues adapting
are getting back to work with the aid recipients nationwide of the 2020 its student services to deliver
of new DSC programs. Cooke Foundation Undergraduate quality academic support during the
Transfer Scholarship. pandemic.
12 13 14
Student Life Falcon Athletics Meet the Faculty
DSC students found a way to stay Daytona State is the first school to Mary Beth Craig-Oatley, assistant
involved through virtual conferences win the women’s and men’s FCSAA/ professor of Occupational Therapy.
and volunteer opportunities. NJCAA Region 8 cross country titles
in the same season.
16 22
Arts & Culture Alumni Profiles
Art historian, educator and Director Keith Kennedy DSC ’82 has a powerful story about persistence and longevity
Emeritus of the Museum of Arts &
as he celebrates a 40-year affiliation, now as DSC’s Vice President for
Sciences, Gary Libby, led the effort
to bring local art to the L. Gale Student Development. Other alumni featured include Jenni Craig,
Lemerand Student Center. Blake Buck, Rachael Hamlett and Debbie Smith.
PRESIDENT’S DAYTONA STATE
PERSPECTIVE COLLEGE MAGAZINE
Dr. Thomas LoBasso
DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Dr. Randy Howard, Chair
Betty J. Holness, Vice Chair
A s each calendar year draws to a close, we often look back
and reflect on all that has happened in our lives while
contemplating what the future will bring. For most of us, 2020 has
Bob Davis
Sarah Dougherty
been the most difficult year in our lives facing the global pandemic Randy Dye
and pressing national social issues, but we, as Daytona State College, Lloyd J. Freckleton
are determined to meet these challenges together while still learning, Mary Ann Haas
evolving and growing. Robert Lloyd
Garry R. Lubi
Looking ahead, we are excited about new opportunities that continue
to support and embrace diversity and inclusion. Minority recruitment
and retention efforts have been a priority and focus of this College for
many years. The Men of Character Initiative (MOCI) began a decade
ago and has had a profound and positive impact on our students as ___________________________________
evidenced by student testimonials and retention data.
When I joined the College in 2001, the Cultural Diversity Committee DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE STAFF
was already well-established and serving the needs of our students
and community. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are woven throughout Publisher
the College and today, the Cultural Diversity Committee is more active Dr. Thomas LoBasso
than ever, keeping DSC a diverse, welcoming community, promoting
new ideas, and facilitating change. Editor
Timothy A. Norton
I’m also pleased to announce a very special event scheduled for
February 18, 2021 – the rededication of the Greene Center, named Managing Editor
in recognition of J. Griffen Greene, the first and only president of Chris Thomes
Volusia County Community College. VCCC was created as the Black
community college at the same time as Daytona Beach Junior Senior Writer
College got its start in 1957, and the two institutions merged in Tim Carpenter
1965. Daytona State College is a lasting tribute to both institutions
as their history is our history. More detailed information about the Art Director/Graphic Design
rededication will be shared with you in the new year. Lisa Deignan
We are a community-based institution, and it has been the
Photographer
community’s support that has helped us grow into the nationally
Aldrin Capulong
recognized and award-winning institution we are today. Our mission
of education remains constant, and like each of you, Daytona State
The Daytona State College Magazine
will grow and adapt as we face whatever the future has in store for us.
is published for alumni, friends and
supporters of Daytona State College
and the DSC Foundation.
Shown here (l to r) are Kristen Hanson,
DSC’s Director of Alumni Engagement & Development,
Michele Goeb-Burkett, Chief Nursing Officer and
member of the DSC Foundation’s Board of Directors,
Ed Noseworthy, Chief Executive Officer,
and Tim Norton.
AdventHealth $20,000 supports Foundation’s
“Campaign 2020: Paving the Way Forward”
Without its annual Gala, which was cancelled due to the pandemic, “The ongoing, generous support from AdventHealth is vital
the Daytona State College Foundation’s Board of Directors launched and much-appreciated, particularly as we prepare healthcare
Campaign 2020: Paving the Way Forward in early October with a professionals for careers right here in Volusia and Flagler counties,”
goal to replace nearly $145,000 raised at the 2019 Gala. said Tim Norton, Vice President for Advancement & Executive
Director of the Foundation.
First to make their commitment as ‘Presenting Sponsor’ was
AdventHealth with their donation of $20,000. As of November 30, “Thank you, Ed and Michele, for your leadership and vision that is
more than $140,000 had been secured toward the goal. A full report making our community healthier and more whole.”
on this micro-campaign will be announced in early 2021.
The 2nd Annual
Sunday,
May 2,
5-8 p.m.
Save
the
Date! L. Gale Lemerand Student Center
Daytona Beach Campus
4 | DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021
FOUNDATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Denis Shelley, Chair
H ope comes in many forms.
Here at the end of 2020, news of vaccines hold
Zina Grau, Vice Chair
Bill Lenssen, Secretary
Rufus Johnson, Treasurer
remarkable promise for controlling the deadly virus that Bobby Thigpen, Immediate Past Chair
has dramatically impacted each of our lives. It has given
Americans, indeed the world, a sense of hope for what
we trust will be the end of this pandemic. Jeff Abbott
Mary Boyd
The writer of Proverbs, the common text found in both Dan Francati
the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament, says, Michele Goeb-Burkett
“Unrelenting disappointment leaves you heartsick, but a
Denis Shelley Michael J. Duranceau
sudden good break can turn life around.” (13:12 MSG)
Dr. Beverly McMurtry-Grissom
DSC Foundation
Board Chair As a Board, we are privy to information about the life of Mary Ann Haas
Daytona State College and the educational pursuits of John Hodgson
students, the achievement of faculty and staff, and the Dr. Thomas LoBasso, President
manner in which the College is leading the way in our Frank Molnar
region and state to build a highly trained workforce that David Sacks
is the engine of economic growth. Louis Seno
Gregory Snell
We are entrusted with the responsibility to oversee the Greg Sullivan
investment of financial assets provided by generous Maggie Thompson
donors and to deploy these resources in a manner
consistent with our mission, which is to provide financial
assistance to students and funding for critical needs that
EMERITUS BOARD
are beyond the scope of the College’s budget.
Sally Gillespie
When we witness the dedication of our students who
Cherie Keemar
have persisted in the face of difficult challenges –
Dirinda Maddy
meeting basic needs for themselves and their families,
getting materials and technology necessary to
complete their coursework, balancing studies and work
Support the Foundation
or having the kind of emotional and mental support
Donate.DaytonaState.edu
network required for success – we are inspired and
(386) 506-3110
challenged to do all we can possibly do to support our
students.
Timothy A. Norton,
Indeed, hope comes in many forms. Vice President of Advancement/
Executive Director,
Rest assured that you are part of the ‘sudden good Daytona State College Foundation
break’ that ‘can turn life around’ for students at Daytona
State College. Thank you for your support.
W. Denis Shelley
Chair
Daytona State College Foundation, Inc.
1200 W. International Speedway Blvd.
Daytona Beach, Florida 32114
(386) 506-3195 • DaytonaState.edu
DAYTONA STATE NEWS
Annual Faculty Awards Announced
A highlight of Fall Planning is the announcement of the Daytona as an example of how a faculty member can engage, challenge,
State College Faculty Awards, which recognize a wide range of support and care for DSC students.
faculty accomplishments in the previous academic year.
The Sterling Award is given to three College employees each
The Moving the Needle Award is a department-wide honor year for teaching, professional and career excellence. Among
given to the academic department which has done the most to this year’s recipients is Dan Biferie, Chair of the School of
increase the College’s performance measurables across several Photography, who retired last spring after spending 45 years
categories including retention, job placement or wages. This as a faculty member and laying the groundwork for the
year’s winner is the School of Nursing, which covers five Southeast Museum of Photography.
distinct programs. Among its noteworthy achievements were a
highly successful BSN accreditation process, expanded offerings Will Dunne earned the Sterling Award for Professional
on two regional campuses, including the design of new space, Excellence after serving as DSC’s Athletic Director since 1992
and the ability to graduate its spring classes by resuming and Dean of the School of Health and Wellness since 2006.
instruction and clinicals during the pandemic. His work has helped build the Falcons into a nationally
recognized NJCAA program both in athletics and academics.
The Faculty Innovation Award is given to a faculty member
who has “gone above and beyond” to make their classes more Tara DeBloom is another winner for Professional Excellence
engaging, exciting and meaningful. Winning that award this in her role as Administrative Assistant in the Office of the
year is Gabi Booth, Assistant Chair of the School of Provost. She previously worked in Business Services and
Mathematics. Booth developed videos and engagement Facilities Services before joining Academic Affairs in 2014 where
components in online classes, was one of the first DSC she is well-known for her detailed knowledge of Daytona State
instructors to use Learning Glass teaching tool, and in her from every angle.
role as an eMentor, provided assistance to other faculty
during the transition to online instruction last spring. In addition to the accolades given by the College, six other faculty
members earned the NISOD Excellence Award (National Institute
The Award for Excellence in Online Instruction recognizes an for Staff and Organizational Development). Representing
outstanding DSC online instructor who utilizes well-designed and Daytona State in 2020 are Alycia Ehlert, Associate Vice
creative course materials and instructional methods, and pro- President, College of Arts and Sciences; Deborah Kirkland,
vides a model of instructional online excellence for other faculty. Assistant Chair, School of Building and Architectural
Technology; Casey Knecht, Assistant Chair, Mary Karl
This year’s winner is Margie Hensler, Associate Professor in College of Workforce and Continuing Education;
the School of Education. Hensler has been credited with Linda Miles, Senior Professor, School of Nursing;
creating low-cost solutions for students, designing a course with Karla Moore, Dean, Institutional Effectiveness and
weekly substantive interaction, and updating documentation to Assessment; Dustin Weeks, Assistant Chair,
ensure accessibility resources for all learners, all while serving Library Services.
DSC’s 10th Straight Year
with No Tuition Increase
For the 10th consecutive year, the Daytona State College District
Board of Trustees voted to hold the cost on tuition.
“Providing our students and community with affordable education
has always been one of the pillars of Daytona State College,” said
Dr. Tom LoBasso, DSC President. “We have been able to freeze the
cost of tuition for a decade now, and even lowered it by two percent
in 2015, because everyone should have access to life-changing
educational opportunities. That’s important now more than ever.”
Daytona State’s tuition remains well below the national average
and the U.S. Department of Education ranks DSC among the most
affordable public four-year institutions in the country. A Florida
resident can expect to pay approximately half the cost for an
associate level or a bachelor’s degree at DSC compared to the cost
at a Florida public university.
6 | DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021
GRANTS SPOTLIGHT
NEH Grant for Southeast
Museum of Photography
Daytona State’s TRiO Student Support Services students and staff gather
For the second time in less than a year, Daytona State for a group photo in Fall of 2019.
College has received a grant from the National Endowment
for the Humanities (NEH) which provides additional funding
for the Southeast Museum of Photography (SMP). TRiO SSS Awarded Grant
Daytona State’s TRIO Student Support Services (SSS)
The SMP is using the $55,351 grant to expand the virtual was awarded a federal grant through the U.S. Department
museum experience by cataloging and digitizing its of Education totaling more than $1.8 million over five years.
collections and making them available through a searchable
database. The grant will also allow the museum to create “Against the backdrop of the pandemic, which
online content for a robust and interactive experience. disproportionately impacts our students and exacerbates
systemic inequities, we are grateful to continue serving
“We are so grateful and excited for the opportunity to expand student scholars and providing them the tools, resources,
digital access to our exhibitions and collections,” said Erin and support to succeed in college and beyond,” said
Gordon, Museum Director. “Funding from this grant will help Dr. Terrie Greenbaum, Daytona State’s project director.
grow the museum’s online audience and increase public
awareness of the SMP’s extensive photography collection. The grant provides funding for services that include one-on-
We are thrilled to be able to engage with the community one tutoring, scholarship support, individualized counseling
in new and innovative ways, utilizing highly developed (academic, transfer, personal, financial aid, and career),
technology and specialized resources.” cultural trips and transfer college tours, peer mentoring
and a Summer Bridge Program. Their services enhance
Efforts to digitize the SMP’s collection began in 2017,
academic success and make it more likely that students
resulting in more than 4,100 cataloged objects. Nearly 700
will graduate or transfer with the lowest possible debt.
object records remain to be cataloged and more than 1,200
objects still need to be digitized so high-resolution images
“The work our staff does in TRIO has never mattered more,
can be added to the records. The NEH received more than
and we are excited to continue the important mission of
2,300 eligible applications from cultural organizations
supporting our 210 student participants as they navigate
requesting funding for projects between June and December
the complexities of higher education as well as our
2020, and only 317 were granted. Daytona State was one of
quickly-changing world,” said Greenbaum.
just six organizations in Florida to make the list.
The Southeast Museum of Photography currently owns SSS is one of eight programs authorized by the Higher
approximately 5,000 total objects, which includes 4,700 Education Act of 1968 designed to help income-eligible,
photographs dating back to the late 1800s. The museum first-generation college students, and students with
includes two galleries, a theater, library, gift shop, office disabilities successfully navigate post-secondary education
space, preparation and work areas, and a collections vault. from entrance through graduation.
DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021 | 7
DAYTONA STATE NEWS
UpSkill Now!
Rapid Credentialing Programs Help Volusia and Flagler County Residents Get Back to Work
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Florida Department of DSC has increased capacity in these short-term, high-demand
Education awarded Daytona State College a training grant in programs, many of which culminate in industry-recognized
excess of $900,000 to help get residents in Volusia and Flagler certification that can also articulate into higher level credentials
counties back to work. Funding will be used to support the Col- such as A.S. or B.S. degrees.
lege’s Rapid Credentialing programs, which are designed to be
completed in as little as 18 weeks to assist unemployed, “Opportunities afforded through rapid credentialing are boundless,”
underemployed, or furloughed workers. said Sherryl Weems, Associate Vice-President of the Mary Karl
College of Workforce and Continuing Education. “Participants
Daytona State offers nine programs as part of the project, and will receive immediate credentials that are relevant in today’s
approximately 450 participants are expected to enroll in the competitive markets while at the same time begin a viable pathway
training through May 2021. The programs include Computer-Aided for career advancement, leveraging skills for tomorrow’s economy.”
Design (CAD), Office Support, CNC Milling, Lean Practitioner, HVAC
Installer, Certified Production Technician, Fire Fighter, Correctional An economic impact analysis conducted in 2018 showed the
Officer and Emergency Medical Technician. Those programs lead average certificate earned from Daytona State College results in
to careers with an average salary of nearly $45,000. increased earnings of $2,400 per year compared to that of a person
with a high school diploma or its equivalent who is working in
“The nine programs we’ve identified for this rapid credentialing Florida. For those who continued their education and completed an
effort cover a broad spectrum of high-demand careers,” said Frank associate degree, the average increase in annual earnings jumped
Mercer, Director of DSC’s Center for Business & Industry. “We’ve to $6,100, or an additional $244,000 in additional lifetime income
configured the training to allow the participant quick entry into these above a high school diploma or equivalency.
careers and to pathways to continue their education.”
The grant was created through the Governor’s Emergency
Education Relief (GEER) Fund as a part of the CARES Act to assist
Daytona State in enrolling students in short-term, high-demand
workforce/career certificate programs.
STUDENTS IN MOTION
Daytona State Student Earns 2020 Cooke Foundation
Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Cooke Scholars are also eligible to apply for up to $75,000 of funding
Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is toward graduate school.
one of the most prestigious awards given
to community college students each year and in “Alex is the second student from Quanta-Honors to be selected in
the spring of 2020, there were only 50 winners the last three years,” said Dr. Ben Graydon, chair of the DSC
nationwide. One of those winners was Quanta-Honors College. “He’s a terrific student and a kind and
Daytona State College student Alex Moker, a generous person. It’s wonderful to see him get this recognition and
member of the Quanta-Honors College, who to know that he’ll have extraordinary resources to draw on as he
earned a scholarship valued up to $40,000 per moves forward.”
year to complete his bachelor’s degree at a
school of his choice. In addition to financial support, new Cooke Transfer Scholars will
receive comprehensive educational advising from the Foundation to
The scholarships help cover the cost of all educational expenses guide them through the process of transitioning to a four-year college
such as tuition, books, required fees and living expenses. and preparing for their careers. Scholars will receive additional
8 | DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021
opportunities for internships, study abroad, and graduate school After graduating from Daytona State last spring, he transferred to
funding, as well as connections to a thriving network of over Stetson University and is planning to pursue his bachelor’s and
2,700 fellow Cooke Scholars and alumni. master’s degrees in computer science with a concentration in
artificial intelligence and machine learning.
“When I was 16, I dropped out of high school and for a long time, I
thought not having responsibilities would make me happy,” Alex said Nearly 1,500 students from 311 state and community colleges
after earning the scholarship. “I decided two years ago I would give applied for the Cooke Scholarship. The Foundation evaluated each
everything I had and would never let my insecurities stop me from submission based on students’ academic ability and achievement,
doing my best, so I entered college. That was the best decision I ever financial need, persistence, leadership, and service to others. The
made. Everyone has the ability within themselves to improve and selected recipients represent 17 different states and plan to enroll at
rise to the top. I hope that any successes I have had serve as a some of the nation’s most selective colleges.
beacon for others to do the same. Life is too short not to be bold,
and to not take charge of our lives.” The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation is dedicated to advancing the
education of exceptionally promising students who have financial
Alex was a member of the Daytona State College Business Club, need. Since 2000, the Foundation has awarded over $200 million in
Phi Theta Kappa and worked as a peer tutor in the Academic scholarships to over 2,700 students from eighth grade through
Support Center. He completed all five sections of the Quanta-Honors graduate school, along with comprehensive educational advising
program in just three semesters and received an additional and other support services. The Foundation has also provided
academic award at the 2019 Arts & Sciences Colloquium. $110 million in grants to organizations that serve such students.
Daytona State Lands 96 Students on FCSAA All-Academic Team
At the end of each academic year, the Florida College System Activities Association
acknowledges students from the 28 member institutions who have excelled academically
while participating in FCSAA programs.
Those who have achieved a minimum 3.30 grade point average (on a 4.00 scale) are recognized
as members of the FCSAA All-Academic Team, and Daytona State College had 96 students
make the list.
BASEBALL: SOFTBALL:
Kyle Abbott, Jordan Barnett, Clayton Burke, Fletcher Cline, Taylor Armstrong, Giovanna Auricchio, Madison Boren, Zoie Hatley,
Benjamin Farris, Trejen Fox-Birdwell, John Gordon, Kialey Hogue, Madison Ioia, Laura Onsgard, Latricia Richardson,
Christian Graham, Tyler Green, Zach Henderson, Reese Jackowiak, Abereese Trotti, Kaitlyn Wilson, Miki Yoshioka
Tre Keen, Tim Kudlinski, Brody Maynard, Andrew McGuckin, ___________________________________________________________________
Rylee McKenzie, Kyle Moore, Carter Page, Scott Reeves, WOMEN’S SOCCER:
Lawson Schumacher, Mason Sharp, Bobby Sparling, Ryan Taylor, Brooke Boccuzzo, Cassandra Bodi, Nia Collins; Savannah DeCastro,
Jace Wilson Natalia Diaz, Ashton English, Sammie Fernandez, Makenna
___________________________________________________________________ Gottschalk, Milla-Maria Kujala, Amber LaGatta, Courtney Magnan,
MEN’S BASKETBALL: Ivy Grace Morgan, Alauna Neely, Michelle O’Driscoll,
Alex Kotov Ashtyn Pascoe, Cassidee Rentsch, Katie Rogers, Julianne Souza,
___________________________________________________________________ Rayanna Taylor, Sydney Timmes
MEN’S SOCCER: ___________________________________________________________________
Juanito Dorta Navarro, Santiago Fonseca Cruz, Alex Fuentes, VOLLEYBALL:
Fabian Grant, Karl Jean Baptiste, Angel Limardo, D’angelo Mullings, Derionah Abner, Joana Sophia Aebi, Samantha Bebber,
Shandel Senior Loren Farrow, Carla Hernandez, Hallie Huth, Milica Pejovic,
___________________________________________________________________ Nicole Rodriguez, Kylie Smith
MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY: ___________________________________________________________________
Tyler Baker, August Healy, Adam Mastrobuono STUDENT GOVERNMENT:
___________________________________________________________________ Stephen Miksits, Peyton Thompson
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL: ___________________________________________________________________
Janay Turner THEATER:
___________________________________________________________________ Gabriel Neil Barnert, Montgomery Elisa Pendleton,
WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY: Austin G. Branning
Shannen Brooks, Kylie DeDeo, Kristine Gray, Angel Khrino, ___________________________________________________________________
Sara Mott, Hannah Offenback PUBLICATIONS:
___________________________________________________________________ Kyra Lieberman
WOMEN’S GOLF:
Jessica Bailey, Manon Donche-Gay, Symone Henriques, Sara Melin,
Stephanie Rodney, Sarah Scott, Casey Sommer
DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021 | 9
LEARNING SCENE
Academic Support Rises to Meet the Challenge
On a Wednesday morning in October 2020, the third-floor library Another addition was the Virtual Librarian, though it’s only
inside the L. Gale Lemerand Student Center is extremely quiet and available in the library of the Daytona Beach Campus. By way of a
mostly empty. Quiet is a standard description of any library, but the limited-access meeting room on Microsoft Teams, cameras and
empty part, on a college campus in the middle of a busy fall computer screens, a DSC librarian remotely monitors the central
semester, feels unusual. For people such as Mercedes Clement, desk from their office. The cameras are always on, allowing instant
Chair of Library Services at Daytona State College, there is still interaction between students and staff who are in different parts
quite a bit going on behind the scenes. of the building. The librarian on duty can even share their screen if
needed, offering the same level of attention and support as if they
Just around the corner from the library, the same is true for Dana were physically present.
Davidson, Associate Director of the Academic Support Center, and
Kristen Bales, Associate Director of the DSC Writing Center. They Bales echoed much of what Clement had to say when it came to
look across a space with few people, but plenty of activity. The their ability to transition to a fully online environment. “Our services
pandemic may have forced or encouraged many students to spend are broken up with the multiple things we do for students, and
more time at home, but they’re still able to conduct research, work virtual support had always been a part of that. We already had the
with tutors or get help writing papers because of the diligence infrastructure to scale up what we were doing all along.”
and hard work of Clement, Davidson, Bales and a host of others
throughout the College. Bales admits to having some scary thoughts about how everything
had to come together in such a short time, but was confident it
When Daytona State temporarily closed its campuses last March could be done. “It was a unique challenge because we’re so
and moved the remainder of the spring semester entirely online, community based.”
the staff who oversaw student services were suddenly tasked with
finding new ways to deliver resources to those who needed them. The Writing Center was physically closed for two months, but its
online presence became stronger. Students were able to book
“I think we were ahead of the curve,” said Clement. “We were 45-minute virtual appointments, the same amount of time they
already offering so many things online it wasn’t as difficult to make would normally get in a hands-on environment. Staffing was also
that switch as it might have been. I know of some other libraries at adjusted to cover the additional use of the center’s live chat
other colleges that weren’t able to do that.” feature. The goal was to provide the same level of support normally
available face-to-face, and as a result, almost 900 virtual
Info guides, tutorials on YouTube and online databases were consultations were scheduled during the Spring B and
already valuable tools, but Clement and her staff created even more Summer terms.
content to help students through the process. The live chat feature
on the DSC Library website was also a popular feature and Bales and her staff also discovered new ways of doing things that
something Clement said would likely become a permanent will likely remain part of their menu of services. A new blog was
addition. launched featuring more reflective writing and they also put more
10 | DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021energy into social media, which included “Write with Me During this Fall 2020 semester, the ASC labs have been available
Wednesdays” on Facebook Live. Much of it was designed to give by reservation and are often used to help set up students for virtual
students, or members of the community, a way to express tutoring. Liz Barnes, Chair of Daytona State’s Academic Support,
themselves by writing for therapeutic reasons rather than school recognizes some students need to be there physically and reminds
or work. them they are still welcome to come in and use the computers and
facilities. “Once they get over that techno-hump, get into an online
For now, all appointments and tutoring sessions are still being meeting, and see how virtual tutoring works, they’re sold,” Barnes
done remotely, but the Writing Center has expanded its evening and said. “We have real people, not chat-bots, who are here to help
weekend hours, and Bales said those appointments typically fill up them get to that point.”
fast. It was a benefit of working from home, which allowed staff
members to cover those spots even with some unusual hours. Above all, Barnes’ top priority was making sure students could
get in touch with whomever they needed from day one. “It was an
When Davidson first heard the College was moving everything incredibly collaborative and innovative process and now we have
online, she too confessed to a moment of panic. “We were very a fully functional online service. It took a minute to pick it all up
much a face-to-face service point. We didn’t have an and figure things out, but we were still able to help students and
appointment-based system like the Writing Center did. evolve.”
Almost everything was done on a walk-in basis. Once in a
while we would meet with someone virtually, but it was “Student-focused,” “innovative” and “collaborative” are words
the exception and not the rule.” Barnes uses over and over to describe how everything fits
together. Along with Clement, their teams have overseen an
Nevertheless, the ASC quickly came up with a new process to incredible transformation in a relatively short time, with all of
make everything work. The biggest challenge in moving all tutoring Daytona State’s academic services working together
to a virtual environment was making sure every staff member was synchronously to ensure every need is met.
properly trained in how to use the available technology and that
included student tutors as well. “We’ve learned to be flexible while still helping our students,”
Clement said. “We follow the College and CDC protocols, and have
What emerged was a new structure that saw the ASC actually designed things so they feel comfortable when they’re here. But if
expand its hours both at night and on weekends and there was a they don’t feel comfortable coming to campus, we’re still able to
dramatic surge in logins as a result. The numbers showed that 44% help them and they have the resources they need.”
of their chat traffic was generated during the extended hours and
has led Davidson to consider whether the so-called “normal “The online building blocks were already in place, so we didn’t have
operating hours” need to change. Meeting students where they to build all of that from the ground up,” Barnes added.
are has been a common refrain and the ASC seems to be doing
that better than ever as evidenced by their 1,150 online tutoring
sessions in Spring B and Summer.
Kristen Bales, Associate Director, Liz Barnes, Chair, Mercedes Clement, Chair, Dana Davidson, Associate Director,
DSC Writing Center DSC Academic Support DSC Library Services DSC Academic Support CenterSTUDENT LIFE
Even though social distancing
guidelines were in effect, the Student
Life Office still wanted to offer a
“first day” college experience to new
Daytona State students. Daytona
State staff members and student
ambassadors staffed an information
tent in Echo Plaza and provided
directions to classes, campus maps,
giveaways and more.
The Student Government Association Though meetings became virtual,
thought out of the box when it came members of the Mu Rho Chapter
to meetings and responding to the of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
needs of the student body. Virtual and their families were still able
conferences, meetings and even to participate in local events. One
social events became the norm as of those involved the cleanup of
SGA officers and sponsors launched waterways through the chapter’s
the 2020-21 school year. partnership with SPLASH (Stop
Pollution Locally and Save H2O).
Fall Events2
12 | DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021DAYTONA STATE CROSS COUNTRY
When Judy Wilson was hired to start the Daytona State College Leading the way for Daytona State was sophomore Andy Martinez,
cross country program in 2018, she had already looked at times for the FCSAA Men’s Runner of the Year who took fourth place in the
the other top junior college teams in the country and knew what it men’s 8K race with a career-best time of 25:23.4 for his third top-five
would take for the fledgling Falcons to be among them. In four or finish of the season. He spent most of the day battling for the lead
five years, she thought, they could be there. As it turned out, they before Melvin Kipkemboi of North Iowa Area Community College
really needed just three. moved ahead over the final quarter of the race and won with a time
of 24:58.77.
After becoming the first school to ever win both the women’s and
men’s Region 8/FCSAA Championships in the same season, Daytona Sophomore Adam Mastrobuono finished 14th in the field of 145
State earned a trip to Fort Dodge, Iowa for the 2020 NJCAA Division runners with a time of 26:39.6 and joined Martinez on the NJCAA
II National Championships where the men placed fourth and the Division II All-American team based on their finish at the national
women were eighth. They were the best finishes for either squad finals. They are Daytona State’s first cross country All-Americans.
since the sport was adopted by the College three years ago.
In the women’s 5K race, the Falcons were paced by freshman
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, cross country was the only NJCAA Harleigh Bilz who finished 18th in the field of 122 runners with a
sport conducting a national championship event during the fall, and career-best and school-record time of 20:10.3. She was competing
the only sport competing for Daytona State, an experience Wilson in cross country this season for the first time since graduating from
found bittersweet. She knows it was hard for other athletes and high school in 2013. Bilz was previously the individual women’s
coaches who were unable to do so but was also pleased with how champion at the Region 8/FCSAA Championships and was the
her own team responded to the situation. FCSAA Women’s Runner of the Year.
“A few months ago, we didn’t even know if we were going to have In addition to the cross country competition in Iowa, the Daytona
a season, but the kids took it upon themselves to be ready if it State men’s team also finished sixth in the NJCAA Half Marathon
happened,” said Wilson. “So much of cross country is about what Championships. The Falcons scored 53 points (top three runners
you do in the summer anyway and self-discipline is a big part of that. scored), with Iowa Central winning the title by scoring 15 points.
They came back ready to go.”
The Falcons were again led by Martinez who crossed the finish line
Wilson also acknowledged her sport has some inherent advantages in 1:12:22.1, good for 13th place individually.
over others when it comes to being able to practice and stage
competition. “It’s a little easier being outside and we don’t have the Daytona State collected more hardware following the conclusion of
big numbers you see in most other sports in terms of student- the national championships when Wilson was named the Atlantic
athletes. Cross country lends itself to distancing too.” Region Men’s Coach of the Year, and Martinez was selected the
Atlantic Region Male Athlete of the Year. The awards were voted on
by members of the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches
Association (USTFCCCA).
DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021 | 13MEET THE FACULTY
MARY BETH CRAIG-OATLEY
Mary Beth Craig-Oatley has been a full-time member of the Daytona Mary Beth’s primary job was helping soldiers recover from
State faculty for 16 years as an instructor and assistant chair in substance abuse, but she worked in sports medicine too,
the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program, but her first specializing in upper extremity injuries. Meanwhile, she was
experience with the College wasn’t in a classroom or an office. It busy learning a new culture and building on her limited German
was a simple picnic with her friends. vocabulary, though Mary Beth did have a little experience with
both. Her great-grandmother had immigrated from Germany and
As college students at the University of Kansas in the 1970s, they spoke the language fluently, and Mary Beth’s mother had taught
had made a spring break pilgrimage to Daytona Beach as so many her some simple words and phrases, but there were still wide gaps
do, and needing a spot to eat lunch one day, a large grassy field at between what she had learned back in the U.S. and what she was
the front of campus was the perfect place. experiencing every day in her new home.
More than four decades have come and gone, most of the field “Even though Germany is a very developed country, they do things
is now a parking lot, and there’s a lot more traffic zooming along very differently from the way we do them in the U.S., little things
International Speedway Boulevard. The campus has a different that make you say, ‘Oh wow, so you do that?’.”
look too, and even a different name, but Daytona Beach and its
namesake college have become home for Mary Beth, who helped One of the things Mary Beth enjoyed was how most businesses
start the OTA program as an adjunct professor in the early 90s were completely closed on Sundays except for local cafés and
before joining the faculty full-time in 2004. The journey from spring cultural centers such as museums. People would spend the day
break visitor to college professor was a long one though and it simply enjoying the city and the company of friends and family,
included an extended stop in Heidelberg, Germany along the way. and a much more walkable environment and well-developed public
transit system made everything more accessible.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy in
1979, Mary Beth began a professional career in her home state of Mary Beth and her husband took advantage of everything Germany
Kansas and met her husband Jeff, a Floridian who was working had to offer, exploring the country or other places in Europe
on his graduate degree. The young couple would later move whenever time allowed. They spent nearly seven years there
to Missouri and Arkansas before they were offered a unique before returning to the U.S. when their oldest son, who was born in
opportunity that would not only allow them to further their careers Germany, was ready to begin school. That brought them to Florida,
but travel to a part of the world they may have never otherwise seen. where Jeff’’s mother, grandmother and brother still lived, but Mary
Beth admits it was a toss-up as to whether the culture shock was
“We decided since we had no kids and no commitments, we’d go to greater moving from Kansas to Germany or Germany to Florida.
Europe for a few years and work as civilians for the United States
Army,” Mary Beth recalled. “I worked as an occupational therapist “I’d visited Florida before then, but it took some time getting
at the hospital in Heidelberg and my husband was at one of the used to living here. It was almost a year before it felt normal. The
outlying clinics. I learned a lot about the military culture and got in transportation and how people lived their daily lives just felt so
really good shape because we had to exercise all the time.” different. I’d go the grocery store and there would be 10 types of
green beans, whereas in the smaller German stores you might
have two.”
14 | DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021While in Germany, Mary Beth had earned her Master’s in Human Beyond the classroom and her time as a teacher, Mary Beth still
Resource Education through an overseas program with Boston enjoys traveling with her husband and two sons (both of whom
University that was developed for military personnel. But it wasn’t are DSC alums), especially the periodic trips back home to Kansas
until she arrived in Florida that it really paid off. While working where she owns property that has been passed down through her
in long-term care, Mary Beth oversaw in-services, training and grandparents and parents. Closer to home, she enjoys volunteering
orientation, which gave her the opportunity to teach in addition to with her church, especially its Caregivers Day Out program
working with patients. It made her realize how much she enjoyed which gives caregivers a break to take care of their own personal
teaching and Mary Beth was soon part of a group that was working needs while ensuring their family members receive proper care
with Daytona State to establish a new Occupational Therapy and attention. Mary Beth also works at a camp for people with
Assistant Program, a process that began when local practitioners disabilities during the summer when she’s not teaching, something
determined there was a shortage of qualified OTAs in the area. she considers one of the most important things she does.
Once the program was active in 1994, Mary Beth became one of the
first adjuncts, and ten years later was hired as a full-time professor.
She now teaches Advanced Practice & Professionalism for students
who are at the end of the academic portion of the program and
preparing for their fieldwork, along with Human Occupation Across
the Lifespan for first-year students. She also teaches a Psych and
Social class that prepares students to work with patients diagnosed
with disorders such as autism, dementia or schizophrenia.
“We’re required to train them as generalists, meaning they need to
learn about all the areas they might eventually be in. They need to
learn about children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. They
need to learn about all the physical and mental conditions they
might face. Some students come into the program knowing there’s
an area where they might want to specialize, but while they’re here,
they need to learn all of it.”
Mary Beth’s own experience in occupational therapy, whether in
Germany or in the United States, gave her the type of knowledge
base she needed in order to teach the set of wide-ranging classes
her students are required to take. But there was still the challenge Looking back at the course of her life and career, Mary Beth has
of learning how to pass that knowledge along in such a way that traveled a fascinating road to get where she is today, from America’s
students were ready to begin professional careers of their own. Heartland across the Atlantic Ocean and back to the United States
Her master’s degree helped prepare her for that, but Mary Beth still via Daytona Beach. As one of the founders of Daytona State’s OTA
had to adjust her mindset when it came to teaching others in a program she’s seen a lot of changes over the last 25 years and is
classroom setting. reminded of that when she sees new buildings and facilities open, a
more frequent occurrence of late.
“For almost anyone who has been a clinician working out in the
field, becoming an educator is a big shift. We’re ready to teach them “It’s been nice to see it progress through the years and it’s
everything we know and they’re not ready for that yet. We have to interesting to look back on all of it. But the new things that are
temper that a little bit and be willing to start where they are.” happening at the College right now are all good.”
Mary Beth must also balance her role as an instructor with her
responsibilities as Assistant Chair of the OTA program, which this
year includes the re-accreditation process. It happens once every
5-10 years and involves a tremendous amount of extra time and
paperwork, all to make sure Daytona State’s OTA program remains
among the best in the country, and that students are being properly
trained for the profession.
DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021 | 15Libby spearheads
permanent art collection
at Lemerand Student
Center
Since opening in the spring of 2019, the L. Gale Lemerand Student
Center has become the most recognizable building at Daytona
State College. Its striking architecture is clearly visible to
thousands of motorists from nearby International Speedway
Boulevard, but while the building itself could be called a work of art,
the inside is filled with the more conventional variety thanks to the
efforts of Gary Libby.
County Art in Public Places program, as well as the state level
Libby, the Director Emeritus of the Museum of Arts and Sciences program, and was also on the committee that selected art for
in Daytona, had a connection to the College through Forough Daytona Beach International Airport. He suggested using similar
Hosseini, a trustee of the museum who was also Chair of the DSC criteria to make the selections for the Lemerand Student Center.
District Board of Trustees until 2019.
“It’s a shame you can’t just pick the things you like, but you have to
She invited Libby to a luncheon with College President pick things you like that are also high-quality objects and meet the
Tom LoBasso and as the three of them discussed plans for the qualifications you’ve set. We wanted it to be a serious permanent
student center’s interior and how it might be decorated, Libby collection of contemporary art that represented what the College
asked a question: “What about having a permanent collection of was able to produce.”
work done by former students, current students, faculty, or
individuals who have a distinct connection to Daytona State?” With that in mind, the art was solicited by invitation only and an im-
pressive collection was assembled. It’s expected that as more art
They loved the idea, but before Libby went to work, he elicited a is gathered, the work on display will be rotated. Libby anticipates
promise from Dr. LoBasso. Libby asked him to speak with the adding three-dimensional pieces into the collection too.
architect about the plans to incorporate a collection of art that
would be placed on the walls throughout the student center. He “Having a permanent collection in a place like the Lemerand
emphasized the need for well-lit walls without any “clutter” that Student Center is a huge benefit for a working artist. It’s an
would allow that space to be filled with the type of art that would important building with a lot of visibility.”
highlight the success of the students and faculty who were doing
exceptional work in many areas. It was at the University of Florida that Gary developed his love for
art, though it wasn’t what originally drew him to Gainesville or to
“Usually, new buildings are built with no real thought about any- college. He attended Florida on a golf scholarship and was initially
thing going on the walls, so you often have light switches in the in the pre-med program, but as an 18-year old freshman, stumbled
wrong place, or a vent right in the middle… they can just kill a wall,” upon the art gallery during the opening of the university’s new art
he said. “But this building was designed beautifully.” and architecture complex. He admits it was the look of the building
that caught his attention.
Libby also wanted to be careful not to detract from anything the
neighboring Southeast Museum of Photography was doing with its Libby was soon attending exhibitions on a regular basis and while
own exhibits and galleries. So, with rare exceptions, the decision he continued taking pre-med courses through his junior year, he
was made not to include photography among the pieces displayed also began taking as many art and art history classes as he could.
in the student center. “Art history took me over. It just fascinated me.”
At the time, Libby thought it would be a relatively easy project but After earning several degrees, including his Ph.D., Libby became
came to realize he would need some help and knew exactly where an assistant professor at Stetson University and taught several
to go. Pam Griesinger, former Program Manager of Studio Arts at courses in a new humanities major. It was the perfect fit for Libby,
Daytona State, had recently retired after spending more than 30 who enjoyed it so much that even after being hired as Executive
years teaching and working with the very people whose work Director at the Museum of Arts and Sciences in 1977, he continued
Libby wanted to display. to teach art history courses as an adjunct at Stetson.
She was the logical choice for the committee Libby would form, It was during his time at the Museum and Stetson that Libby made
along with himself and Dr. LoBasso. Each had particular areas of his first connections to what was then Daytona Beach Community
interest or expertise, and all of them were willing to put in the time. College. He’s thankful Dr. LoBasso and Forough Hosseini invited
him to be a part of what the College is doing today and is pleased
Their first task was setting the criteria to select each artist and to see what’s happening on campus.
their work. There were thousands of potential students and faculty
from which to choose and narrowing that list down would be an “Daytona State is a first-class institution,” he said. “You’ve got very
even greater challenge without guidelines. That’s where Libby’s good leadership and it’s moving in a direction that is very
experience came into play. He had been involved in the Volusia sympathetic with what’s happening in the culture today.”
16 | DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021ARTS & CULTURE
Pamela Griesinger, Self Portrait, Trish Thompson, Palm Window, 27” x 22”,
36” x 30”, Oil on Canvas Mixed Media
Clare Radigan, Immigrant, 72” x 36”,
Acrylic on Canvas
Margaret Schnebly Hodge, Blue Star Tidal Force I and II,
48” x 120” diptych, Oil on Canvas, 2019
Bruno Moskola, Lost Room,
16” x 40”, Mixed Media
Karlene McConnell, Riverlife,
60” x 53”, Acrylic on Canvas
John Wilton, Flowered Graffiti, 47” x 96”,
Digital Composition – pigmented inks and
acrylic paint on polymer panel
DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021 | 17MIKE CURB
Mike and Linda Curb
continue their support of DSC
with $750,000 gift
Unrest over policing following the George Floyd killing this past summer
was the backdrop of a conversation that led to new opportunities for
students interested in emergency services careers through a generous gift
from Mike Curb and the Curb Foundation.
Music mogul and philanthropist Mike Curb shared with Daytona State
College President Tom LoBasso this about his father’s law-enforcement
career: He never had to fire his gun. “My dad was an FBI agent. He didn’t
get to make very much money, but he was a great man,” Curb said.
In December, the DSC Board of Trustees unanimously approved a
naming rights and endowment agreement with a gift of $500,000 that
names the Charles M. Curb School of Emergency Services as a tribute to
Mike’s father, and adds $250,000 to the existing endowment that named
the Mike Curb College of Music, Entertainment and Art in 2008.
“We’re grateful for Mike’s ongoing support,” Dr. LoBasso said.
“With everything going on this summer, we were talking about
Daytona State and our law enforcement academy that is the training
facility for law enforcement professionals in Volusia and Flagler counties.
This generous endowment gift will help us with recruiting and enhancing
programs to make our police academy the very best in the State.”
The agreement also calls for Daytona State College and Bethune-Cookman
University to seek ways to collaborate, and the schools’ presidents have
begun talking about possible articulation agreements ensuring a smooth
transition from DSC’s two-year program to B-CU’s four-year program.
“We need a very new, diverse group of talent in the areas of music and
entertainment and emergency services,” Curb said in a phone interview
with The News-Journal. “This is a real opportunity for Bethune-Cookman
and Daytona State to work together.”
Reported by Mark Harper, Daytona Beach News-Journal, Nov. 13, 2020
“Mike has been a trusted friend over many
years. His influence and impact in Daytona
Beach through CURB/WORD Records, the racing
business and, more particularly, as the name on
the Mike Curb College of Music, Entertainment
and Art at Daytona State is unmatched. With
the addition of $750,000 in endowed funds to
their prior gift of $500,000, Mike continues to
demonstrate his leadership and passion here.
Cici and I are thrilled to call Mike and Linda Curb
friends, and we are exceedingly grateful for their continuing generosity that
includes support they have also provided at Bethune-Cookman University.”
J. Hyatt Brown, Chairman, Brown and Brown, Inc.
18 | DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021Mike Curb, An Extraordinarily Influential Life
Imagination. Ingenuity. Passion. Drive. Generosity.
Many words could describe music mogul, politician, racing was instilled, in part, “going to my grandfather’s church
aficionado and philanthropist Mike Curb, but these five certainly (in Oklahoma), where I sat at the organ and he taught me to
capture the essence of a compassionate, ‘make-the-most-of-every- play the hymn, “Just As I Am.”
opportunity’ person whose life has been guided by seminal
influences from his earliest days.
Mike’s grandmother, Eloise Salazar, who
His grandmother, Eloise Salazar, who migrated north to America migrated north to America from Laredo,
from Laredo, Mexico, and who Curb says, “loved America…and Mexico, and who Curb says, “loved America…
believed the highest calling was to serve your country,” taught him
and believed the highest calling was to serve
about a life of service in the private and public arenas.
your country,” taught him about a life of
His father and mother, Charles and Stella Stout, met in Pittsburgh, service in the private and public arenas.
Pa. when FBI director, J. Edgar Hoover, asked Charles – fresh out
of law school at Oklahoma State University – to join the FBI and
he was sent to Pittsburgh on an investigation. “He didn’t find the Moving from Oklahoma City to Los Angeles, more specifically to
information he wanted, but he found a beautiful girl,” reported Curb. Compton/Watts, when he was five, Curb experienced music from
And, they were off to a life that would take them to Charleston, SC, the African American churches in his community. The influence
Savannah, GA, Prescott, AZ, Oklahoma City and Los Angeles. of that music launched his interest and involvement in a wide
variety of genres from soul, R&B, rock and roll, to country, Christian
and more.
Curb parlayed his love of music into a life that has included writing
more than 300 songs with more than 100 ASCAP, BMI and SESAC
award-winning songs; 4,825 Billboard Charted Records, including
41 #1 records and 1,609 top-ten records; scoring or writing for more
than 50 films; and, being credited with putting rock-n-roll into films.
At the start of it all, Curb penned “(Go Little Honda) You Meet the
Nicest People on a Honda,” for which he was paid $3,000. That
meager sum provided the start-up funding that launched his first
“The Mike Curb Congregation,” the musical group Curb formed, had a Top 40 pop hit record company, Sidewalk Records.
in early 1971, Burning Bridges, that was used as the theme of the film Kelly’s Heroes.
Today, CURB/Word Entertainment, for which Curb is Chairman and
Along the way, Curb’s love of music – playing piano and violin by CEO, includes Curb Records, music publishing, film, racing plus a
ear, and having a real connection to “music that has a feel to it” – foundation and more.
DAYTONA STATE MAGAZINE • WINTER 2021 | 19You can also read
