PRESIDENT'S REPORT THE PATH TO EXCELLENCE - Wallace State Community ...
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P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
T H E PAT H TO E X C E L L E N C E
W H AT W E S TA N D F O R
VISION
Wallace State will facilitate learning without boundaries, will be committed to every student’s
success, will exemplify the spirit of perpetual improvement, and will promote an overarching
sense of community.
MISSION
Wallace State Community College is committed to learning that transforms lives and communities. In
support of the mission, Wallace State Community College is committed to student success through a
student-centered, innovative, engaging, and supportive learning environment; teaching excellence that
inspires a quest for lifelong learning; respect for uniqueness and diversity, strategic partnerships that
advance community, workforce and economic development; cultural enrichment of our communities;
accountability and integrity.
VALUES
Wallace State Community College affirms these values:
Commitment to learning
Dedication to excellence
Academic integrity
Creative thinking
Respect for individual dignity and worth
Civic responsibility
Collaboration and partnerships
2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
ALLENGE OF
CH
EXCELLENCE
A Message From the President
Historian Will Durant in summarizing Aristotle captured the Wallace
State ethos: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not
an act but a habit.”
Wallace State has made the pursuit of excellence a habit that never
wanes. In everything that we do, from teaching with a learning-cen-
tered focus, to the way we serve students and our communities, we
have created a culture of excellence. New initiatives spring from our
own high standards and best practices, infused with innovation, and
undergirded by continuous assessment. The “strategic dynamism”
identified in our strategic plan is evidenced in these pages.
Wallace State has received regional and national recognition in a
number of areas. We have been recognized as a pacesetter for our
work with the American Association of Community Colleges Path-
ways Project. The U.S. Department of Education established a pilot
project to award Pell Grants for dual enrollment, and Wallace State
was selected as a result of our exceptional work in this area. South-
ern Business and Development magazine recognized Wallace State
among the region’s top providers of workforce development training,
and the college received the most votes for Best Community Col-
lege in the magazine’s Best of Economic Development in the South
issue. The National League for Nursing recognized the Wallace State
Department of Nursing Education as one of thirty Centers of Ex-
cellence in the United States. Wallace State opened its new One-
onta campus, welcoming hundreds of students through the doors
from Blount County and beyond, and launched the Winston County
Works project, through which many residents of that area can learn
the skills needed to find a rewarding career. These are just a few of
the many accomplishments of students, faculty and staff in recent
months as we focus on advancing opportunities for workforce devel-
opment and economic progress in our region.
We do not take our responsibilities as educators lightly. Our goal
is to ensure every student has the opportunity to Start Early, Start
Right, Finish and Succeed, and in doing so, to build a more prosper-
ous Alabama. This we will achieve as we work every day to continue
to meet the challenge of excellence. Our students and our state de-
serve no less than our very best.
Opposite page, clockwise from top right: ACCS Chancellor Jimmy Baker; State and local dignitaries cut the ribbon on the Winston County Works project; WCSS Oneonta ribbon cutting; Dr. Walter Bumphus of the American Association of Community Colleges addresses faculty and staff of Wallace State.
A L A B A M A C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E S Y S T E M
GOVERNANCE
Jimmy Baker, Chancellor
A C C S B OA R D O F T RU S T E E S
Gov. Kay Ivey, President Crystal Brown, District 5
Al Thompson, Vice President, District 1 Milton Davis, District 6, Pro-Tem
Ron Fantroy, District 2 Chuck Smith, District 7
Susan Foy, District 3 Blake McAnally, Member-at-Large
Frank Caldwell, District 4 Jeffery Newman, Ex-officio Member
2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
Opposite page: WSCC President Dr. Vicki Karolewics, with Oneonta City Manager Ed Lowe, left, and Mayor Ross Norris, right, at the ribbon cutting for the new Oneonta Center. This page: Area dignitaries celebrate the opening of Sequence Health at Wallace State Community College.
O P E N I N G D O O R S T O
EXCELLENCE
After a concerted grassroots effort by area leaders in Oneonta and Blount County, Wallace State
Community College opened the doors of a new campus center at Oneonta. Classes were first held
in the Summer 2016 semester, with the new Blount County center quickly proving its worth with
enrollment exceeding predictions.
Hundreds of area residents welcomed Wallace State into the community during the official open house
and ribbon cutting in May 2016 at the temporary location acquired by city officials with the help of
support from local businesses. Construction is expected to begin soon on a permanent facility that
will provide access to higher education to even more students in the area and act as a hub for the
community.
Traditional academic offerings — offered in both day and night classes — have since expanded to
include workforce training with the start of Commercial Driver’s License Training, a welding program,
and more in the Spring of 2017. Dr. Kelley Jones, who formerly served as director of Wallace State’s
Adult Education program, serves as the director of the Wallace State-Oneonta Center. She has ushered
the center through its first year as it has quickly become an integral part of the community.
More doors opened in another part of the college’s service area in August 2016, when Wallace
State launched its Winston County Works project at the Winston County Technical Center in Double
Springs. Providing short-term basic skills training, the Winston County Works project was established
to increase employability in an economically depressed area of the state. Classes offer industry-
recognized certificates and credentials in order to facilitate employment opportunities for participants
in high-growth and high-demand occupations in the automotive manufacturing industry. Among the
classes offered during the first semester of classes were MSSC Certified Production Training for
advanced manufacturing, welding credential opportunities through the American Welding Society,
including OSHA 10, and commercial driver’s license (CDL) certification and truck driver training.
Wallace State continued its workforce development efforts by serving as an incubator for business.
Wallace State welcomed Sequence Health to campus, providing space for the medical contact center
to get up and running while a more permanent 15,000-foot facility is constructed in Cullman’s Industrial
Park III on County Road 222. Wallace State received a $30,000 innovation fund grant from the Alabama
Community College System to equip and train personnel in the incubator. Without the support from
Wallace State, the company would not have been able to locate in Cullman. Now Sequence Health
anticipates hiring 128 employees over the next five years, with jobs in nursing, as well as patient
navigator, and management positions.
Commencement 2017 The Class of 2017 files into Tom Drake Coliseum for the 2017 Commencement Exercises. More than 500 students participated in the ceremony marking Wallace State’s 51st commencement. 2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
E X P A N D I N G
EXCELLENCE
Along with its efforts in Blount and Winston counties, Wallace State Community College
continued to expand its offerings through additional programs, partnerships and upgrades
to technology designed to provide more opportunities to students and the community.
Wallace State CDL instructor Ben Matanane, left, and Tim Frazier of the Alabama Trucking Association look over the new CDL training lot built at the Wallace State-Hanceville campus.
EX PAN S I O NS A N D U P G R A D E S B Y WA L L AC E S TAT E I N C L U D E :
»» The U.S. Department of Education chose »» Wallace State successfully lobbied
Wallace State as an experimental site for federal officials for the return of year-
the “Expanding College Access Through round Pell Grants.
Dual Enrollment Pell Experiment,” for the
»» Wallace State Adult Education began
first time opening up access to Federal Pell
offering a new non-traditional high
Grants for students taking dual enrollment
school diploma option for students.
courses. Wallace State was one of 30
community colleges in the nation chosen to »» Wallace State and Auburn University
participate in the experiment and the only announced plans to establish an
college in the state of Alabama to join in the aviation partnership.
research. »» Wallace State’s Flight Technology/
»» The college expanded its Fast Track Aviation Department added a flight
program with the introduction of the Fine simulator for helicopter training.
and Performing Arts Academy to area high »» Wallace State’s EMS program added
school students who may have limited a state-of-the-art mobile ambulance
or no access to art programs at their training simulator to allow students
schools. This program builds on the Fast to practice in a realistic, enclosed
Track Academy, geared toward students environment.
interested in college transfer, and the
very successful Fast Track to Industry »» The Criminal Justice program added a
partnership with Cullman County Schools. firearms training simulator which local
law enforcement departments are also
»» The Commercial Driver’s License program utilizing to train personnel.
benefited from the construction of a new
training lot to help meet the workforce »» The WaLLi Continuing Education
needs in the trucking industry. The City of program was officially introduced to
Oneonta also partnered with Wallace State the community, offering a wide range
to build a CDL lot there. of opportunities and activities to area
residents 50 year of age and older.
»» Wallace State signed a Memorandum of
»» The Wallace State Genealogy
Understanding with Bioprist to explore
a partnership for health care related Department expanded its collection
education and training in Jamaica. through donations and purchases,
including 500 books donated on
American history by Richard Blanton.
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P A T H WA Y T O
EXCELLENCE
Clockwise from top right: Nursing students prepare for a simulation in the operating room; biology students take an exam; welding student completes a task; graduates of the Class of 2017 wave to family and friends.
Wallace State was one of 30 community colleges in the U.S. selected by the American
Association of Community Colleges to participate in the Pathways Project, funded by the
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and work on this project began in earnest in 2016.
The Pathways Project involves a rethinking and redesign of the student experience from
enrollment through completion. Through Pathways, students will have less pressure at
the outset to choose a major; rather, they will identify the pathway – Liberal Arts/General
Studies, Applied Technologies, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), or
Health Science – which best aligns with their strengths and interests.
Pathways is designed to streamline the path to completion and improve student success.
The college catalog was completely revised to reflect the Pathways model, and Wallace
State has become a national mentor to the next generation of community colleges
adopting this model.ABOUT PATHWAYS
The college developed its 2017-2022 strategic plan around the development and
implementation of a new organizational design, Guided Pathways. An underpinning of
Guided Pathways is the development and dissemination of curricular maps that are con-
gruent with the broader meta-majors outlined below. Confusing options are minimized
once a student moves from a meta-major to a specific program of study.
LIBERAL ARTS/GENERAL STUDIES S.T.E.M
Art/Visual Communications Computer Science
Business Administration Pre-Engineering/Engineering
Business Education & Office Administration Math
Business Management & Supervision Sciences
Criminal Justice
Music Education
Paralegal HEALTH SCIENCES
Pre-Education
Child Development
Pre-Law
Dental Assisting
Pre-Medicine
Dental Hygiene
Religious Studies
Diagnostic Imaging
And More!
Diagnostic Medical Sonography
APPLIED TECHNOLOGIES Emergency Medical Services
Health Information Technology/Medical
Agriculture/Horticulture Production
Coding
Automotive Service Technology
Medical Assistant
Aviation/Flight Technology
Medical Laboratory Technician
Collision Repair
Nursing
Culinary Arts
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Diesel Technology
Pharmacy Technology
Engineering Technology
Physical Therapist Assistant
HVAC & Refrigeration
Polysomnography Technologist
Machine Tool Technology
Respiratory Therapy
Mechatronics, Electronics, Robotics
Students gather in the centromere, the atrium of the School of Nursing and Center for Science.
Sports Medicine
Technology
Therapeutic Massage
Salon & Spa Management
Welding
Through the college’s work in Pathways, Achieving the Dream, and other student suc-
cess initiatives, the percentage of students who have completed a degree or certificate
within three years has risen dramatically – from 23 percent in 2013 to 38 percent in
2017, a 65 percent increase in just four years. A freshman seminar course, success
coaching for incoming freshmen, a new academic resource center offering tutoring and
job placement, and other innovations are having significant impact. The League for Inno-
vation in the Community College presented Wallace State with a 2017 Innovation of the
Year award for its work in Guided Pathways.
2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R TR E C O G N I Z I N G
EXCELLENCE
Wallace State’s Department of Nursing Education earned the prestigious designation as
a Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing (NLN). Wallace State is the
only community college and only the second institution of higher learning in the state to
receive the honor. WSCC’s award was based on its efforts in “Creating Environments
that Enhance Student Learning and Professional Development.”
Wallace State was also recognized by Community College Week as one of the nation’s
fastest growing community colleges with enrollments of 5,000 or more, the only
community college in Alabama to earn that distinction. Wallace State placed 39th on
the list of U.S. public community colleges with enrollments from 5,000 to 9,999, which
Community College Week compiled by analyzing data provided by the U.S. Department
of Education.
Even as improving employment rates have decreased enrollments across the country, in
2016 Wallace State rose from fourth to the third largest community college in Alabama.
Wallace State’s diverse offerings for degrees, certificates and transfer; its student
success rates, which are among the best in the country; and its outstanding instruction,
personalized student services, and welcoming atmosphere have long made it a popular
Dual enrollment students walk the halls of the School of Nursing and Center for Science.
choice for students, and its popularity continues to grow. In fact, Wallace State was
recognized as the first-choice community college among Alabama high school seniors
taking the ACT.
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n Recognizing Excellence continued
Opposite page: Students and faculty visit the HudsonAlpha Institute. Pictured are, from left, Dr. Jeremy Prokup of HudsonAlpha, Wallace State student Zach Brooks, WSCC biology instructor Wes Rakestraw, student Matt Rush, biology administrative assistant Jonee Casey, student David Hinds, WSCC retired
COL L EG E AC H I E V E M E NT S :
»» Wallace State awarded nearly 1,300 degrees »» Wallace State entered a new Joint Admission
or certificates at its 51st commencement at agreement with the University of Alabama
Tom Drake Coliseum. Steve James, founder in Huntsville, which joins other similar
of the international relief organization, Kenya agreements, including those with UAB and
Relief, received a special Distinguished Alumni Samford University, giving students access to
Award at graduation. More than 500 students university services while at Wallace State. These
participated in the ceremony. special agreements complement the college’s
participation in the STARS statewide articulation
»» Wallace State is the first-choice community
system, which guarantees students seamless
college among Alabama high school seniors
transfer of credit to the state’s universities and
taking the ACT.
other colleges.
»» Wallace State was ranked among the Top 3
»» The Talent Search program received a $415,000
biology instructor Dr. Fred Halstead, biology instructor Melanie Glasscock, and chemistry instructor Rosalyn Meadows. This page: From left, Kenya Relief founder Steve James; WSCC Nursing Let’s Pretend Hospital; WSCC Welding.
in the South for Workforce Development by
grant to help area students. Talent Search,
Southern Business and Development magazine.
one of the federally-funded TRIO programs,
»» Wallace State was designated as a Military serves economically disadvantaged, potential
Friendly School for the third straight year. first-generation college students beginning in
Veteran-centered services and activities are middle school. Wallace State also maintains a
offered across campus and throughout the year. similar TRIO program for college students called
»» Wallace State was one of 30 community Student Support Services.
colleges in the U.S. selected by the American »» Wallace State’s Phi Theta Kappa Chapter, Alpha
Association of Community Colleges to Chi Tau, earned REACH status for outstanding
participate in the Pathways Project, funded by growth in membership, and received the
the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Distinguished Honors in Action Project Award
»» Wallace State again made the list of top for a “Peace and War” project centered around
producers of health care professionals in the issues faced by veterans returning to college
nation as announced by Community College after being deployed in various wars and peace
Week’s Top 50 Associate Degrees: Health missions. The club also sponsored a project
Professions and Related Programs. Community raising awareness of the heroin epidemic in
College Week also recognized the college as today’s society.
one of the fastest growing community colleges »» Representatives of an Iowa health system visited
in the United States, with enrollments of 5,000 Wallace State’s Let’s Pretend Hospital in order
or more. to study the program and use it as a model.
»» Wallace State’s Applied Technologies Division »» Wallace State biology students received a tour
was ranked fourth nationally among NC3 of the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology,
certification centers. continuing a partnership with the Huntsville-
»» Wallace State’s ‘2+2’ poultry science program based research facility. Twice a month, interested
received donations from the U.S. Poultry students in the biology department have been
Foundation and others, along with American meeting with Dr. Jeremy Prokop of HudsonAlpha
Protein’s sustained, ongoing support of the to analyze changes in genetic variants to predict
program. how those changes alter protein structures
and affect cellular biology and diseases. The
»» Hanceville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, a partnership was facilitated with the help of
longtime clinical partner, donated funds to the WSCC alumna Casey Smith.
Wallace State Nursing program.2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
Clockwise from top left: Fasst Track graduation; Nicholas Parrott receives the 2017 Andrew V. Stevenson Merit Scholarship from Kappa Beta Delta, presented by Kathy Sides; Blake Schilleci receives the 2017 President’s Cup from Dr. Vicki Karolewics; Wallace State Students attend ACCS Day at the capitol in
S T U D E N T S A C H I E V I N G
EXCELLENCE
The faculty and staff at Wallace State Community College are especially proud of
students who earn honors and recognition for their efforts in the classroom, on campus,
and in the community.
»» Donald Wayne May received the 2017 school diploma. Each adult education graduate
Presidential Award for Health Excellence; – more than 230 since 2016 – receives a
Emmanuel Reynoso-Arce received the scholarship to enroll in a course at WSCC.
Presidential Award for Technical Excellence;
»» The first class of welding and CDL students
and Bryan Holmes received the Presidential
completed the Winston County Works program.
Award for Academic Excellence. Winners from
the previous year were Shannon Nichols, Scott »» Students Nicholas Parrott and Riley Voce were
Bartlett and Jeffrey Johns. named Wallace State’s All-Alabama Academic
Team members in 2017, following the 2016
»» Blake Schilleci, a 4.0 GPA student-athlete from
recognition of Callie Allen, who was a Coca-
the Wallace State baseball team, received the Cola Community College Academic Team
2017 President’s Cup. The award is presented Silver Scholar, and John-Anthony Jimenez. Miss
each year to the student who most completely Wallace State 2016 Jordan Johnson was named
demonstrates academic excellence, service to a Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar,
college and community, leadership, courage, earning a $1,000 scholarship.
perseverance, and all the qualities that make a
student well rounded. Softball player Sarah Ellen »» Parrott and Allen along with Jasmine Zavala
Battles received the 2016 President’s Cup. and Jessica Vice represented the college at
the Student Leadership Institute hosted by the
»» More than 80 students graduated from Wallace
ACCS at the 4-H Center in Columbiana.
State’s Fast Track dual enrollment programs,
earning more than $1.2 million in scholarships. »» Brooke Edwards, a dual enrollment student, was
Twenty-five completed requirements for an named 2017 Homecoming Queen. She was
associate degree before graduating high school. crowned by 2016 Queen Lucie Lawrence of
West Point.
»» Wallace State students flourished again at the
state SkillsUSA competition, with nine students »» LaShanda Harrison became one of the college’s
earning a gold medal. Additionally, Maci Key first welding success stories through Wallace
became the first WSCC student to serve as State’s Winston County Works program, and
a SkillsUSA state and national officer and the was one of a growing number women working
college was a repeat winner of the Highest toward or earning degrees in technical fields.
Participation Award. Matching the silver medal WVTM 13 News filmed a segment at WSCC
won by the crime scene investigation team regarding women in welding.
last year, machining student Noah Smith won »» Wallace State’s Occupational Therapy
a silver. Steven Ballard and Landon Warnock Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, Practical
earned bronze medals in robotics. Nursing and Diagnostic Medical Sonography
»» Among many transfer scholarships awarded were among the programs with students earning
to WSCC’s graduating class, recipients a 100 percent pass rate on board required
Jasmine Zavala and Makenzie Bearden were examinations.
named recipients of UAB Presidential transfer »» Wallace State’s Quiz Bowl Team finished
scholarships; Nicholas Parrott received the 2017 ninth at NAQT National Community College
Dr. Andrew V. Stevenson Merit Scholarship Championship in Minnesota after winning five
from Kappa Beta Delta; Ryder Jones earned state tournaments leading up to the event.
a University of Alabama Presidential transfer
Montgomery; Wallace State Skills USA winners.
Respiratory Therapy students were declared
scholarship; Reagan Short and Caleb Woods, champions at the Sputum Bowl, the Alabama
both recognized at graduation, received full Society for Respiratory Care’s scholars bowl-
tuition scholarships to Mississippi State. style competition.
»» Wallace State’s Adult Education program »» Wallace State students visited the Statehouse
served 600 students during the 2016-17 in Montgomery on Alabama Community College
academic year at 15 sites, spanning Blount, System Day in April, where dual enrollment
Cullman, Morgan and Winston counties. While student Savannah Grattan, a graduate this year,
most graduates earned a GED, more than a was chosen to provide remarks at the first such
dozen completed the new non-traditional high event the previous year.EXCELLENCE
I N L E A D E R S H I P
Dr. Vicki Hawsey Karolewics was elected to serve on the American Association of
Community Colleges Board of Directors, representing more than 1,100 community
colleges and more than 13 million students throughout the United States. Dr. Karolewics
will serve a three-year term on the 32-member board.
OTH E R AC H I E V E M E NT S B Y WA L L AC E S TAT E FAC U LT Y A N D
STAFF I NC LU D E :
Oppposite page: Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics visits with Dr. Walter Bumphus, President and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges.
»» Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics Community College Leadership Academy.
was named a recipient of the 2016 Giving
»» Wallace State OTA instructor Kelly Krigbaum
Back Award from INSIGHT to Diversity
was recognized with the OTA Award of
magazine, the largest and oldest diversity Excellence by the Alabama Occupational
and inclusion publication in higher education. Therapy Association.
The Giving Back Award honors presidents
and chancellors of colleges and universities »» Wallace State’s Mary Medendorp, Simulation
who go above and beyond their everyday Lab Coordinator, earned certification as a
leadership duties and “give back” to their Simulation Educator.
campuses and communities. »» Wallace State biology instructor Connie
»» In November 2016, Dr. Karolewics and Briehn participated in NHGRI Short Course in
Cullman County Schools Superintendent Genomics at the National Institute of Health.
Shane Barnette joined a select group of »» Wallace State’s 2016 Chancellor’s Award
innovative community college and K-12 leaders recipients were recognized at the ACCA
in Washington, D.C., to discuss strategies for Conference banquet. Recipients included Dr.
collaboration to dramatically improve college Kelley Jones, Christine Wiggins, Dr. Thea Hall
readiness. and Allen Keener.
»» Wallace State dental instructor Teresa Ray- »» Wallace State welding instructor Jim
Connell was named Wallace State’s recipient Thompson was selected to judge at the 2017
of the 2017 John and Suanne Roueche U.S. Invitational Welding Trials.
Excellence Award. Diesel Technology
instructor Jeremy Smith and history instructor »» Leadership Wallace State included Kristi
Leigh Ann Courington were previous winners. Barnett, Jamie Kilpatrick, Karen Morris,
Weslie Powell, Blake Ray, Kassie Ray, Allison
»» Wallace State’s Jamie Robertson was named Robertson, Jamie Robertson, Wesley Sams,
the 2016 Alabama Adult Education Staff Tanya Shearer, Cindy Smith, Susan Stephens
Person of the Year. and Christine Wiggins. This group engages
»» Dr. Marcie Hill (Child Development) and in a yearlong program designed to promote
Lauren Cantrell Salerno (Theatre) were among leadership on campus.
the college’s recent graduates of the Alabama
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P R O G R A M S O F
EXCELLENCE
The Wallace State Department of Nursing Education earned the designation as a National League For Nursing Center of Excellence in Nursing Education from 2016-2020 for the category of creating environments that enhance student learning and professional development.
Wallace State is always working to provide students with the best options in their
education, engaging in a continuous cycle of program and curriculum assessment to
better serve students.
Adapting to changing standards in the health care industry, the Wallace State Department
of Nursing Education — recognized as a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence
— launched a new concept-based curriculum in June 2016. Each student entering the
program is eligible to earn a practical nursing certificate and apply for licensure as
an LPN after successfully completing the first three semesters of the program, while
continuing to an associate degree and applying for licensure as an RN after successfully
completing the fifth semester.
“The concept-based curriculum design, which is intended to better prepare graduates to holistically care for
the patient, is being embraced as a great new nursing education strategy by many nursing programs around
the country,” said Deborah “Pepper” Hoover, director of the Wallace State Nursing program.
OTH ER C H A NG E S A N D C UR R I C U L U M - R E L AT E D E V E N T S
OFFER E D I N 2 0 1 6 - 2 0 1 7 I NC L U D E :
»» Wallace State technical students were »» Dr. Doug Phillips, of “Discovering Alabama,”
offered the option of stackable certificates, visited Wallace State to speak in recognition
adding more pathways to completion. of Earth Day 2016; Dr. Whit Gibbons visited
Wallace State as keynote speaker for Earth
»» The Child Development program began
Day 2017.
offering semester-long stackable certificates,
addressing the need for qualified »» Wallace State welcomed Harper Lee
professionals nationwide. biographer Charles J. Shields to campus.
»» Wallace State’s Clinical Lab Technician »» Health care workers learned about dementia,
program changed its name to Medical and human trafficking at a Wallace State
Laboratory Technician to better reflect Alumni Connection event.
industry trends.
»» Wallace State’s Talent Search program
»» Wallace State welcomed speakers from recognized students through its annual
the National Coalition for the Homeless in TRIO Day celebration, including having
conjunction with the “Homeless to Harvard” WSCC math instructor Melissa Arnold tell
Common Read selection. Garth Stein, author her inspirational story about earning college
of “The Art of Racing in the Rain,” also visited degrees.
Wallace State for a lecture and book signing.From top: Wallace State Nursing students perform a skit as part of the Children’s of Alabama Kids on the Block program during the Cullman County SafeKids Expo; Physical Therapy Assistant students douse runners in colored powder during the Connor Strickland Memorial Color Run 5K and Fun Run.
C O M M U N I T Y O F
EXCELLENCE
With a combined student/faculty/staff population of well over 6,000, Wallace State
Community College is a community unto itself as well as a part of Cullman County and
surrounding areas, and the Alabama Community College System as a whole.
One way the college gives back is through the annual Let’s Pretend Hospital hosted by
the Department of Nursing Education. First graders from every Cullman City and County
School and several private schools visit the School of Nursing and Center for Science to
learn healthy habits and safety measures.
This past year, a group from Genesis Health System in Iowa came to Wallace State to
observe the event and use it as a model for their own community outreach program.
OTH ER CA M P U S A ND C O M M U N I T Y O U T R E AC H E F F O RT S
TH RO U G H WA LLAC E S TAT E I N C L U D E :
»» Wallace State’s Future Foundation raised »» Wallace State Nursing and Dental Health
more than $200,000 during its 12th annual students taught elementary students health
Student Investment Luncheon. and personal safety through the SWELL
program, which uses puppets to engage
»» A student-led drive for supplies to assist
children in an introduction to health care.
Baton Rouge Community College students
Wallace State Nursing teamed up with
and faculty affected by flooding in Louisiana
Respiratory Therapy students to volunteer at
collected thousands of pounds of cleaning
the Cullman County SafeKids Expo.
supplies and essentials.
»» Wallace State-Oneonta helped sponsor the
»» Wallace State’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor
Blount County Midnight Run, and students
Society raised awareness about heroin
and staff joined with the Helping Unite
usage for its college project.
Blount County (HUB) group to participate in
»» Wallace State hosted more than 1,200 the Day of Service on MLK Day by assisting
10th graders for the second annual WSCC with improvements at the area senior center.
Showcase, which provided information on
»» Wallace State Diagnostic Medical
programs for students and potential careers.
Sonography students donated $2,400 to
»» Wallace State’s Student Government Footprints Ministry and instructors presented
Association distributed backpacks to the a demonstration on sound to Cullman
WSCC campus police department as part of Christian School students.
its “Props for Cops” campaign.
»» The Connor Strickland Memorial Color Run
»» Wallace State’s Rotaract Club, one of the 5K and Fun Run raised more than $7,000 for
college’s newest clubs, hosted a Spirit Night scholarships.
at Chick-fil-A for the Wounded Warriors of
»» Wallace State’s Relay For Life team raised
Cullman County, among other activities. This
group is the college version of Rotary. more than $4,000 for the American Cancer
Society.
2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R TC E L E B R A T I N G
EXCELLENCE
Clockwise from top left: Brandon Horton, LaSheena Nation, Mary Hovater, Katie Fine and Joey Foster, pictured with Welding instructor Jim Thompson, were all spotlighted in commercials for the What Will Your Story Be? advertising campaign.
At Wallace State, students of all ages find the inspiration to dream, and the courage
and support to make their dreams come true. From major league World Series pitcher
Derek Holland and 6-time MLB All-Star Craig Kimbrel, to professional golfers Brett
Wetterich and Fredrick Jacobson, to country music singers Jimi Westbrook of Little Big
Town and solo artist Kip Moore, to meteorologist Jason Simpson…. doctors, authors,
lawyers, actors, welders, nurses, chefs, scientists, counselors, entrepreneurs…for every
profession imaginable, from the ordinary to the extraordinary, Wallace State has given
someone a start to a dream.
Wallace State’s efforts to celebrate its students and alumni were rewarded as both print
and digital campaigns earned awards from state and national organizations. The What
Will Your Story Be? campaign kicked off with a series of commercials featuring WSCC
Alumni who share how their stories started at Wallace State. The following were featured
in the first series.
»» Brandon Horton is the City of Oneonta’s Public Safety Director, overseeing the operation of the
city’s fire, police and public works departments, which aid nearly 6,700 people. He earned an EMS
degree from Wallace State in 2004 and added an associate’s degree in fire science then offered by
the college in 2006.
»» Katie Fine is one of Cullman’s youngest entrepreneurs. The 2008 Cullman High School graduate is
owner of Karma’s Coffee House and credits her time as a student at Wallace State with giving her
the confidence to open her own business and helping her to mature into the young professional she
is today.
»» Mary Hovater is an engineer with NASA at Huntsville’s Space and Rocket Center. She graduated at
Wallace State with a pre-engineering degree before transferring to a four-year institution.
»» Joey Foster took welding at Wallace State and found a passion for the field. He earned state and
national titles in welding at SkillsUSA competitions and has achieved great success in the field.
»» LaSheena Nation played basketball for Wallace State and is now a coach herself and pursuing a
master’s degree at Alabama State University.
The “Hunger” ad featuring a Wallace State basketball player in the print series of the
campaign received Best in Show for print advertisements during the Alabama Community
College System Public Relations Association’s Pyramids Awards brunch, and was one
of nine first-place awards for the marketing team, the most first-place awards of any
college in the system.
The National Council for Marketing and Public Relations recognized Wallace State with
a dozen Medallion Awards, including three gold awards, and a Paragon Award, the
organization’s highest.
2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
The Pathway to Success Wallace State Community College is dedicated to providing its students with the tools and experiences they need to Start Early, Start Right, Finish and Succeed.
2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
T R A D I T I O N O F
EXCELLENCE
At top: Gloria Williams received a special 50th anniversary Outstanding Alumni Award at the 2016 Commencement; at bottom: Gary Hardman and Regina Griggs Hammond were recognized at the ceremony as part of the first graduating class from Wallace State.
As Wallace State celebrated its 50th anniversary over a period commemorating the college’s opening and its
first graduating class, WSCC took the opportunity to visit with former faculty, staff, and students. The college
reached out to alumni as preparations were made for the yearlong celebration. Members of the first gradu-
ating class were located and early faculty and staff members shared stories recounting the starting of the
college and its growth over the last five decades.
AMONG T H O S E S P OT LI G HT E D :
Dr. Mavis Wooten joined the college faculty in 1976 as one of its first doctorate level professors as Wallace
State transitioned from a technical school to a community college. Wooten taught accounting, English and
speech at the college. She spent more than 15 years on campus and watched it grow both in enrollment and
physically as buildings were added to accommodate the larger student body.
Psychology instructor Stacey Hooper Brunner recalled her time as a student and her eventual employment at
her alma mater. Brunner attended Wallace State as a student from 1981 to 1983, earning a degree in business
management. As a student, Brunner was a work-study student for the Flight program, was head cheerleader
and served as a student government senator. After graduating, Brunner lived and worked out of state for
several years before returning to her home county and finding a job at Wallace State in 1989, where she’s
worked continuously. Her roles changed from receptionist to cheerleading coach, from aerobics instructor to
student recruiting. In 1993, after earning her master’s degree in psychology, she was hired to fill a newly-vacant
instructor position, where she’s been ever since.
Sisters Freddie and Gail Thomason each made their mark at Wallace State during the college’s growth spurt
in the mid-to-late-1970s. Gail Thomason was the first director of the college’s Medical Laboratory Technician
program and saw it through its first accreditation process before leaving in the mid-1980s. Freddie Thomason
stayed on for a while longer, starting to work for the college full-time in 1976 teaching psychology and mental
health, and eventually becoming director of the program before retiring in 2000.
Dr. Garlan and Dot Gudger each played major roles in the start of the college and its growth. Dot Gudger was
one of the first instructors at what was then the George C. Wallace State Trade School of Cullman County,
building the business education program to be one of the fastest-growing programs at the new facility. Dr.
Gudger joined the staff several years later as the college’s Dean of Students to assist in the transition from a
trade school to a two-year college. “We have a great college,” Dr. Gudger said. “This has created and made
Cullman and Cullman County a better place to live all together. I’m proud to have been a part of it.”
During the 2016 Commencement Exercises at Tom Drake Coliseum, of which about half of the 1,107 students
who earned degrees or certificates participated, college president Dr. Vicki Karolewics recognized Gary
Hardman and Regina Griggs Hammond, both of whom were members of the first graduating class at
Wallace State. Gloria Williams received a special 50th anniversary Outstanding Alumni Award in appreciation
for her longtime support of the college through her lifetime membership in the Alumni Association, serving as
its president for five years; as a member of the Wallace State Future Foundation board member for six years;
and for establishing the Foundation’s first scholarship for women.Opposite page, clockwise from bottom: Robin Cummings, right, speaks with Andy Payls and the late Bob Palys at the opening reception for the “Charlotte’s 23 Jays” exhibition at The Evelyn Burrow Museum, which featured hundreds of pairs of Air Jordans and other Nike shoes from the Charlotte Cummings
EXCELLENCE
I N A R T & C U L T U R E
The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association named the Evelyn Burrow Museum the
Organization of the Year during its annual meeting in Florence. The Organization of the
Year Award is presented to the AMLA member organization that contributed significantly
to the betterment and development of tourism in North Alabama. The Alabama Mountain
Lakes Tourist Association also provided the museum with a $2,000 grant to be used for
a future exhibit.
Memorial Sneaker Collection; a musuem visitor looks at photos on display during the “Out of the Depths” exhibit; a sculpture from the Burrow Sculptors Invitational exhibit “Rendezvous.”
At the Evelyn Burrow Museum in 2016, sneakers were a very big hit during an exhibition
featuring the Charlotte Cummings Memorial Sneaker Collection. “Charlotte’s 23 Jays”
displayed the most complete collection of Nike Air Jordan sneakers on exhibit in the
eastern United States. Hundreds of pairs of Air Jordans and other Nike shoes and
memorabilia delighted a constant flow of visitors throughout the spring of 2016. The
exhibit was on loan from local collector Robin Cummings.
The third annual Burrow Sculptors Invitational entitled “Rendezvous” followed the
Charlotte’s 23 Jays exhibit. “Rendezvous” spotlighted the works of Everett Cox, Glenn
Dasher, Casey Downing, Jr., Frank Fleming, Stacey M. Holloway, Bruce Larsen, Ted Metz,
Brad Morton, NovOntos, Duane Paxson, Robin Snyder, Kara Warren, Rachel Wright and
Jason Tanner Young.
A special exhibition honoring veterans included static displays of memorabilia loaned
by area veterans and videos marking the last three eras of conflict: World Wars I and II,
Korea and Vietnam, and Operation Iraqi Freedom to current day.
The museum also hosted “Out of the Depths,” a dual exhibit of photographs by Beiruiti
artist Fadi BouKaram and paintings by Birmingham artist Joe Cory depicting the artists’
views on current events in the Middle East.
In the museum’s exhibit hall, photographs by Australian photographer Anatole Zurrer were
displayed as well as artwork by local artist Laura Willingham Walker. In 2017, as part of
the three-year celebration of the State of Alabama’s Bicentennial, the museum opened
an exhibition of photographs by the late William “Bill” Sharpton, “Celebrating Alabama’s
Places.”
The museum led short-term study abroad trips to Australia and Ireland through the
college’s Travel Abroad program, which conducts overseas trips each year.
2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
Opposite page: Wallace State Singers Magan Melton and Trawick Lowe perform during “50 Yesterday and Today: A Musical Birthday Celebration of Wallace State.” This page, from top: Emma Denson, left, and Duke Cleghorn perform in Wallace State Theater’s production of “The Importance of Being Earnest;”
E N T E R T A I N I N G
EXCELLENCE
The Wallace State Community College Fine and Performing Arts programs provided many
opportunities for entertainment in 2016-2017, including a celebration of the college’s 50th
anniversary with “50 Yesterday and Today: A Musical Birthday Celebration for Wallace
State” by the Wallace State Singers. Alumni of the 40-year-old group were invited back to
share the stage with current singers in a touching and entertaining tribute to the group’s
founder, Dr. Jim Walker, and other past and current directors.
The college also hosted the Homegrown Music Festival, a free event for the community
that included performances by Wallace State Fine and Performing Arts programs and acts
such as Tangerine Tambourine, Round 2, Three on a String, and the Edd Jones Orchestra.
OTH ER P E R F O R M A NC E S A N D P RO G R A M S P R E S E N T E D B Y T HE
guests at the 2016 Big Band Ballroom Dance take to the dance floor while the Wallace State Jazz Band plays a lively tune.
FIN E A ND P E R F O R M I NG A RT S P RO G R A M S I N C L U D E :
»» The Theatre Department presented the
classic renditions of “The Importance of
Being Earnest” and “Singin’ in the Rain,”
as well as putting a modern spin on “Our
Town.” The program also showcased
student talent during its Broadway Night
productions.
»» Wallace State Singers and Choir
presented “In the Mood for Christmas”
and a special tribute to the King of Rock
‘n Roll, with “C’Mon Everybody: The Elvis
Presley Songbook.”
»» The Wallace State Jazz Band presented its
annual Big Band Ballroom Dance.
»» Wallace State Jazz and Concert Bands
hosted the annual Veterans Celebration of
Service concert.
»» The Wallace State faculty presented the
“All That Jazz” faculty concert.On this page, from left: The Wallace State volleyball team won its 9th straight ACCC regular season title during a year that included an amazing streak of 41 ACCC wins; the 2017 season for Wallace State baseball was one of the best in the last decade and included the title for ACCC North DIvision; women’s
EXCELLENCE
I N A T H L E T I C S
basketball advanced to the ACCC Championship for the fourth time in five seasons. Opposite page: The Wallace State women’s golf team won the inaugural ACCC/Region 22 tournament in only the program’s second season.
With the addition of two new athletic programs and continuous success both on the
playing field and in the classroom, Wallace State Athletics have continued to produce
excellent results.
Wallace State reintroduced men’s and women’s tennis in 2016 and men’s and women’s
cross country will resume in Fall 2017, bringing the total number of athletic programs to 12.
The men’s tennis team, under the direction of coach Tony Franklin, hit the ground running,
winning the ACCC/Region 22 tournament title their first year, and finishing in the top 20
in the nation.
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n Excellence in Athletics continued
OTH ER AC C O M P LI S H M E NT S I N WA L L AC E S TAT E AT H L E T I C S I N C L U D E :
»» Wallace State athletics inducted its second Hall »» Wallace State women’s basketball advanced to
of Fame class: former women’s basketball coach ACCC championship game for fourth time in five
Larry Slater, former Wallace State golfers Brett seasons.
Wetterich and Trey Jones, former softball player
»» Wallace State men’s golf made its 22nd
Cindy Mallard and contributor Johnny Thornton.
appearance in the NJCAA National Tournament,
»» Wallace State had a school-record 36 student- finishing 14th in the nation. This was the fourth
athletes recognized by NJCAA for academic consecutive year the team earned a spot at the
achievements. national tournament.
»» Wallace State athletics had six teams earn NJCAA »» The men’s golf team members continued to bring
All-Academic honorable mention status. home awards, as sophomore Sylas Elliott earned
low medalist for two consecutive years, was named
Wallace State tennis player Toddric Stallworth of Albertville takes a swing during a match. Wallace State reintroduced the tennis program during the 2017 season, winning the ACCC/Region 22 championship in their first season.
»» Wallace State baseball coach Randy Putman
a Jack Nicklaus Award semifinalist, and a NJCAA
reached his 1,000-win milestone with the Lions
PING 1st-team All-American. Coach Dan York
after a doubleheader sweep against Calhoun in
was named the 2016 ACCC Coach of the Year.
March 2017.
Sophomore Eli Marty was named low medalist at
»» The MLB Draft saw a number of Wallace State the NJCAA District 4 championship. In 2017, Chip
players’ names called, starting with Garrett Suchey Willoughby and Brandon Lacasse earned All-
in 2016 and followed by Landon Hughes, Braxton ACCC Tournament recognition at the conference
Light and Blake Rivera in 2017. Suchey was tournament, while Willoughby was named a NJCAA
drafted by the Miami Marlins in 2016 but chose to PING 2nd-team All-American. Willoughby and
enroll at Alabama for next season. He was drafted Brandon Lacasse were named to the PING All-
by the Kansas City Royals in 2017. Hughes was District 4 team.
drafted by the Atlanta Braves, Light by the Chicago
»» Wallace State’s women’s golf team finished 12th
Cubs, and Rivera by the San Francisco Giants.
in the nation in 2016, and in 2017 the team won
»» Wallace State baseball advanced to the ACCC the inaugural ACCC/Region 22 tournament in only
tournament quarterfinals in 2016, closing the the program’s second season. Freshman Annalee
season with a 34-25 record, marking the 25th time Stephens won individual low medalist and Ashley
in coach Randy Putman’s 27 seasons that he led McCormick and Bradi Ruehl were also named to
the Lions to the postseason. Sophomores Stephen the All-Tournament team. The team again finished
Dobbs, Turner Vincent and Garrett Suchey each 12th at nationals in Duluth, Ga., in 2017.
received 2016 Southeastern District/ACCC-
»» Stefany Pate was named Wallace State’s new
Region 22 recognition. In 2017, the team went
46-13 and won the ACCC North Division, capping cheerleading coach, replacing Rob Metcalf after
one of the best seasons in the last decade. his 22 years with the program.
»» Wallace State volleyball won its ninth straight
»» Wallace State softball won its 10th ACCC/Region
ACCC regular season title as the team capped off
22 championship. Sophomore Julia Dailey was
an amazing streak of winning 41 ACCC matches
named tournament MVP and Taylor Beshears,
in a row dating back to 2013, and captured its
Molli Garcia and Sarah Ellen Battles were also
eighth consecutive ACCC/Region 22 tournament
named to the All-Tournament team. Interim coach
championship. The previous year, the team made
Jeff Benson was named the 2016 ACCC Coach
its 16th overall appearance at the NJCAA Division I
of the Year. The team made its 10th NJCAA
national tournament and eighth in a row. The Lions
national tournament appearance, advancing to
closed the season with 38-4 record, one of the
the quarterfinals in St. George, Utah in 2016.
best seasons in program history. Cierra Davis was
Freshman infielder Taylor Beshears was named a
named tournament MVP and Kelsea Bivins, Abby
NJCAA 3rd-team All-American in 2016 after setting
Borden and MaKenzie Bearden were also named
multiple single-season individual records. In 2017,
to the All-Tournament team. Kelsea Bivins was
they returned for the 11th time and third in a row,
named a NJCAA 2nd-team All-American. Randy
marking the first appearance under new coach A.J.
Daniel was named the 2016 ACCC Coach of the
Daugherty and assistant Sallie Beth Burch.
Year.
»» Wallace State men’s basketball edged Marion
»» Wallace State anglers Ryan Shields and Chayse
Military in a nationally-ranked showdown and
clinched the ACCC regular season title in 2016. Freeman finished 17th at the Carhartt Bassmaster
College Series National Championship.2016-17 | P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T
Opposite page, clockwise from top left: students learn about the Wallace State Alumni Association during an on-campus event sponsored by the organization; Wallace State cheerleaders help raise team spirit; current and former Wallace State Singers perform during “50 Yesterday and Today: A Musical Birthday
E F O U N DA
T U R T I
O N
F U
Each year the WSCC Future Foundation holds the Student Investment Luncheon
as its primary fundraiser for scholarships. In 2017, the Foundation launched its
Major Gifts Campaign, which seeks donations for scholarships for tuition, books,
and incidentals such as food and gas to help students with those necessities. The
Foundation hosts a Scholarship Celebration event each year giving donors a chance
to meet the students who received scholarships. There are more than 75 named and
endowed scholarships, with more added each year. Thank you, to our donors!
LEGACY SOCIETY Wells Fargo Foundation Educational Matching Mitch Smith Chevrolet, Inc.
Silver Patron ($100,000–$499,999) Gift Program Topre America Corporation
City of Cullman, Industrial Park US Poultry Foundation Nell Dunlap
Austin and Tiffany Monk Quality Staffing Solution, LLC
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE Hometown Bank of Oneonta Timothy Aho
Platinum ($10,000 or more) Drinkard Development, LLC Airgas, Inc.
Cullman Savings Bank Scotty and Karen Hooper City of Cullman Industrial Board
The Chantal & Tommy Bagwell Foundation, Inc. E. S. Campbell Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc.
Traditions Bank Tim Compton Cullman County Commission
Donna Guthrie Randall Rowe Cullman County Ind. Dev. Authority
Anonymous St. John & Associates Eckenrod Ford Lincoln
American Proteins, Inc. Yutaka Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Inc.
Bo Jackson Sharon Woodruff Happy Homes Real Estate, LLC
Kathy Maddox HOAR Construction/Program Mgt
Gold Hanceville Nursing & Rehab Center Jackson & Williams, Attorneys at Law
($5,000–$9,999) Vince and Vicki Karolewics Mack Transportation, LLC
Celebration of Wallace State.” From left are Scott Carpenter, Julie Newton, Paige Harbison Clabo and Duke Cleghorn.
Cullman Savings Bank Foundation Chem Station Lambert Mackentepe
Faith Hammock Zina Stansberry Peoples Bank
Premier World Discovery Kimberly Lafevor Truckworx Kenworth
Royal Technologies Corporation Cullman Regional Medical Center USA Healthcare, Alabama, LLC
Birmingham Fastener & Supply, Inc. Wayne and Elaine Fuller W. W. Williams Southeast, Inc.
Richard Stewart KM Agency, LLC Webb Wheel Products, Inc.
Cullman Jefferson Gas McGriff Industries
Norris and Barbara Atchley Brandon Smith Patrons
Bill and Nelda Simpson Lisa Hullett ($500–$999)
Bruce and Betty Payne Merchants Bank of Alabama Earnie and Betty Haynes
David and Edith Cryer Athens State University Terracon - Birmingham
Donald and Kathy Dyer AJK, LLC John and Jane Wiederecht
Shirley Quattlebaum Cullman Electric Cooperative Wallace State AEA
Wanda Quick Regions Bank Christine O'Leary
James Bagwell John Riley Lisa Windom
State of Alabama John Apel Lisa Weeks
My Way Transportation, Inc. Alabama Coal Cooperative Walmart 6006 Distribution Center
Cullman Auto Mall LaDonna Allen
Silver Cullman Women's League Renee Quick
($1,000–$4,999) Mike and Lisa Eckenrod Ola Callahan
State Farm Companies Foundation Grant Brown Memorial Fund Syble Shaw
Retha Tinney Melanie Maddox Virginia Folsom
Donovan and Sarah Lovell SportsMed Jim and Nanci Tidwell
Jerry Caudle Utility Trailer Sales of Alabama, LLC Phyllis Brewer
Smith's Landscaping & Lawn Service Walmart 7280 First Community Bank
Gloria Williams Yearwood Construction Doris HinkleYou can also read
