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WINTER 2017
A Publication for Alumni and Friends of Mercer County Community College
Mercer Receives $2.25M Grant to Enhance Student Success
Student Collaboration Center Opens for Business
MCCC Ranked No. 1 Military-Friendly
School Nationally
Diving in with PTA Alum Barbara Vees
Global Business Club Officers Simran Chadha and Jason Lima
Two Agreements Provide RN to BSN Pathway
Semester of Giving To Local Nonprofits
Upcoming EventsApril 5: Explore Mercer!
Open House, 6 to 8 p.m.
April 7: “Spring Into Student Success!” Scholarship Benefit The Stone Terrace, 6:30-10 p.m.
April 25: College Fair, 6 to 8 p.m. (Sponsored by Mercer County Professional Counselors Assn.)
May 18: Commencement, 5:30 p.m.
Distinguished Lecture Series Spring 2017
February 15: “The One-Woman Show: A New Voice in the Desegregation Movement”Dr. Jessica Davis will discuss the contributions of Esther Brown, a little-known activist in the movement to desegregate public education in the early 1950s. April 5: “Prison Hospice: Dignified End of Life Care for the Aging Prison Population”Filmmaker Edgar Barens will discuss his Oscar nominated film, Prison Terminal. Discussion to follow. April 12: “The Koto: A Traditional Japanese Instrument in Present Day”Composer and musician Kento Iwasaki ‘09 (A.A., Liberal Arts) will present historical and modern aspects of the koto, and perform traditional and contemporary works. April 26: “Zika 2017: Epidemic or Just a Passing Health Scare?”Dr. Gilbert Honigfeld, Visiting Professor of Psychology at William Paterson University, will provide an update and analysis. Note: Lectures take place in the Communications Building, noon to 1 p.m., and are free and open to the public. Check details at www.mccc.edu/events.
Later-starting classes begin February 21, March 21 and April 4. Summer
sessions for MCCC and visiting students from high schools and other colleges begin May 22 and July 5.
You Can Still Take Classes This Spring!
Read and Share The Viking Magazine Online at www.mccc.edu/viking
THE VIKING, a semi-annual publication for alumni and friends of MCCC, is published by the Marketing and Public Relations offices. Send story suggestions to [email protected].
Jim Gardner, Public Relations ManagerLynn Holl, Director of Marketing & CommunicationsWendy Humphrey, Public Relations Associate ManagerBradley Kent, Web and Print Editor
Mercer County Community CollegeWest Windsor Campus1200 Old Trenton RoadWest Windsor, NJ 08550
James Kerney Campus102 North Broad StreetTrenton, NJ 08608
The Viking
CONTENTS
For a complete listing of MCCC social media sites, visit the college’s home page at www.mccc.edu
and click on the social media icon on the lower right.
3
Academic News• Security Systems
Technology Partnership• Breaking Ground on
Advanced Manufacturing• Experiential Learning• American Honors
Symposium• New Business Center• TV Program Rolls Out
Mobile Truck• Nursing Pinning
News Around The College• International Ed Week• ‘Student First’ Grant• No. 1 Military-Friendly
College in Nation• Semester of Giving• Continuing Studies
Focuses on Healthcare
Community Connections• MCTS’s STEM Academy• Kelsey Review Online• President Wang Chairs
Survey Commission
The Viking • Winter 20174-6
7-10
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Alumni Features• Kento Iwasaki ‘09 • Chris Moore ‘10• Barbara Vees ‘12• Kathryn Kingsley ‘12
14-15
16-17
18-19
Foundation and Donor News• Spring Into Student
Success! Benefit• Honors Recognition
Reception• Golf Classic Wrap-up• Major Bequest for Photo-
graphy and Horticulture• Culinary Tasting Benefit
Back Cover• Kelsey Theatre Spring
Season• Gallery at Mercer
Exhibits• Photography Prof Creates
Podcast
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Sports Report• Men’s Soccer• Women’s Soccer• Women’s Cross Country• Women’s Tennis
Transfer and Career News• Georgian Court University• Rider University Housing• Two Agreements for
Nursing Grads• Transfer and Job Fairs
12-13
Men’s and Women’s Basketball Schedules
www.mccc.edu/athletics
The Viking
ACADEMIC NEWS
Rewarded for LeadershipThis fall, two high-achiev-
ing students were selected for 2016 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise scholarships, which are awarded to a select group of community college students nationwide. Business Admin-istration major Jason Lima and Liberal Arts major Dan Hurley have been active leaders at Mercer; both will graduate in May with plans to transfer to four-year institutions.
Lima says MCCC has giv-en him the edge to compete on a bigger stage. “Mercer has provided me with the skills to succeed in a competitive global economy. With the net-working and leadership opportunities available, I feel like I will have an advantage when I transfer.”
Hurley added, “I am amazed at how caring and helpful every professor has been. There are so many opportunities for students to enhance their college experience.”
Jason Lima, left, and Dan Hurley
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One of the college’s newest programs is Security Systems Technology, developed in partnership with the Security In-dustry Association (SIA). Launching its first full year this fall, three courses will roll out in the spring. This A.A.S. degree program prepares students for jobs that support the selling, installation, management, and technical support of physical security systems technologies in an IP-based networked envi-ronment, with salaries expected to top $60,000.
According to faculty member Jeff Weichert, coordinator of the program, this joint effort will provide collaborative course instruction, internship opportunities and career path-ways. SIA is providing full support for lab equipment and instruction. “Students are getting the most advanced technol-ogy and techniques from industry experts,” he said.
The first course, Physical Security Product Technologies, was introduced this fall and offered again this spring. Other courses include: Introduction to PC Hardware and Software; Security Sales: The Consultative Approach, and Fundamentals of Computer Networks.
Weichert observes that these courses are an excellent foundation for numerous IT degree programs offered at Mercer, including A.A.S. programs in Computer Networking and Tech-
Security Systems Technology Program Promises ‘Secure’ Jobs
This fall, students in Physical Security Product Technologies (SST200) learned about the operation and integration of industry products and technologies and how they keep assets safe around the world.
nology, Cybersecurity and the certificate program in Network Engineering Technology, which can be completed in one year.
Professor Emerita Dr. Vera Goodkin was one of three special guests at the Survivors Luncheon held in November at the Mercer County Holocaust-Genocide Resource Center. Goodkin shared her dramatic story of survival during World War II as one of many children rescued by Raoul Wallenberg. Students studying Holocaust history and related courses packed the center to hear from Goodkin, along with survivors Henry Eisenberg and David Tuck.
Reliving and Learning History at the Mercer County Holocaust Center
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The college broke ground on its new Advanced Manu-facturing Laboratory on the West Windsor Campus in August. This facility will integrate cutting-edge technology with hands-on experience in a field that has grown exponentially in recent years. The lab will be the only one of its kind in Mercer Coun-ty, with the next closest facility located in Camden.
The $1.2 million, 3,000-square-foot laboratory will fea-ture the latest in high-tech machining equipment, including mills, lathes, saws, grinders and presses, in addition to a classroom configured with workbenches and computers. The lab will open in Fall 2017. Funding was made possible through the Building Our Future Bond Act, which was ap-proved by New Jersey voters in 2012.
According to the United States Department of Labor (DOL), a survey of U.S. manufacturing employers found that 80 percent had a serious problem finding qualified candidates for the highly technical world of modern manu-facturing. The DOL estimates salaries and benefits at about $65,000 per year.
Breaking Ground on Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory
Instructor Harry Bittner shows off one of the college’s 3-D printers during a tour of the current facilities. The new lab will house a classroom that will more than double the number of available printers.
The American Honors (AH) at Mercer program ended its semester with a December symposium as students presented projects and research based on a semester’s worth of work.
‘Be Successful in Your Own Way,’ Say American Honors Alumni at December Symposium
From left, American Honors alumni Alex Ivanoff, Murtaza Khomusi and Arina Balako speak about their experiences at their transfer schools.
The event also featured three AH alumni who returned to campus to participate in a panel discussion: Arina Balako ’16 (A.A., Liberal Arts), currently a junior at Columbia University studying mathematics and statistics; Alex Ivanoff ’16 (A.S., Business Administration), a Sports Management major at New York University studying sports law; and Murtaza Kho-musi ’14 (A.S., Biology), a pre-med student at Swarthmore College who is focusing on Islamic Studies and minoring in Biology and Interpretation Theory.
Mercer’s Honors curriculum, which emphasizes critical thinking and close reading of material, earned high praise from the alumni. “The fundamentals I got at Mercer definitely carried over,” Ivanoff said. Khomusi added that there is no one formula for success. “I have met such different people who are successful in their own way. Be yourself and do your best to achieve your particular goals. Nobody does ‘you’ bet-ter than you,” he said.
This spring, students will be eligible to participate in an innovative experiential learning program as MCCC part-ners with area businesses to integrate relevant job experi-ence into students’ studies.
“One of the great challenges for many students is the need to work to pay their tuition and living expenses, or to contrib-ute to their family financially,” MCCC President Jianping Wang said. “They often miss out on job-related internship experienc-es, and spend extended time completing their degrees.”
Students Set to ‘Earn While They Learn’ Through Business PartnershipsA new partnership with Genesis Biotechnology Group
(GBG) in Hamilton will offer a year-long paid internship to students working towards their Certificate of Proficiency in Medical Office Assistant. In addition, successful graduates will be offered employment with a GBG subsidiary. A sim-ilar partnership with Domain Computer Services of Cran-bury, a technology solutions provider, will offer short-term network cabling training and certification that will lead to immediate workforce placement.
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ACADEMIC NEWS
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With the official opening of the Student Collaboration Center in the Business building (BS109) in November, MCCC is providing a state-of-the-art environment for business and technology students to study, complete assignments, and col-laborate with fellow students.
During the opening reception, Professor Laura Sosa said, “We want our students to have a holistic experience. We have created this space for them to collaborate outside the classroom, much like at four-year colleges.”
The spacious room is equipped with small tables and a conference table, couches, several computer stations and a printer, as well as two televisions that air the latest business and world news. The color scheme and furniture were select-ed to mirror a business setting. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Getting the Job Done in New Business Collaboration Center
Students, faculty and administrators were all on hand for the official opening of the Student Collaboration Center in the Business building.
Television and Digital Film students in MCCC’s Ap-plied Field Production course are getting deeper into their field and taking their show on the road. Thanks to funding from Dow Jones, a produc-tion truck that was donated to the college by PVI Virtual Media Services has been fully equipped for prime time.
According to Television faculty member Steve Voor-hees, this new technology is giving students a real world, hands-on experience of
Television Students ‘Dish It Out’ from New Mobile Unit
completing assignments from a mobile unit. “This is an exciting and timely addition
to our curriculum,” Voorhees said. “Students are working together on site as a unified
team and managing every aspect of the production. This is not an opportunity that many colleges offer.”
This fall, students used the truck to produce and direct five episodes of “Dish It Out” with MCCC faculty chefs Doug Fee and Frank Benowitz in the college’s Culinary Center. Now in its 10th season, the show features the two chefs preparing dishes in a format similar to network cooking shows.
Nursing Graduates Celebrate at Pinning Ceremony
Five students earned special awards. From left are Director of Nursing Elizabeth Mizerek, award winners Lauren Bullock, Cody Willever, Kyeisha Frink, Alexander Lepera and Sarah Devlin, and Associate Professor Toni Racioppo.
Amid cheers and tears, 28 graduates from the Nursing Class of January 2017 celebrated with faculty, college ad-ministrators and loved ones at a graduation and pinning cer-emony on January 11 at Kelsey Theatre.
Said valedictorian Lauren Bullock, “This has been an extremely challenging and at times daunting experience. Our struggles helped us to become better nurses and better people.”
Presiding over the ceremony was President Jianping Wang. “We congratulate you for completing this major mile-stone in your journey and welcome you to a noble profes-sion. Helping the needy and healing the sick is a profession of miracles,” she said.
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NEWS AROUND THE COLLEGE
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Major Grant to Fund ‘Student First’ Initiatives
This fall, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) awarded MCCC a $2.25 million grant to support a series of initiatives aimed at improving services to students, bolstering student performance, and increasing opportunities for suc-cess after graduation.
The grant was made available through the highly com-petitive federal Title III program, which focuses on “innova-tive, customized, instruction courses designed to help retain students and move the students rapidly into core courses and through program completion,” according to the DOE web-site. The five-year grant will allocate $450,000 per year to these efforts at MCCC, which is the only community college in New Jersey to receive a Title III award.
According to President Jianping Wang, the grant will as-sist the college in implementing a series of service initiatives that began more than a year ago, including new technology and personalized hands-on programs to improve students’ direct contact with faculty and staff, individual academic advising and coaching, and defining pathways to degree completion and careers starting from a student’s first day on campus.
“This grant will enhance our ability to serve our students when they need it, how they need it, and where they need it,” Dr. Wang said.
Among the customized services to be supported through the grant are enhanced mobile access, e-advising, and text message communication; additional student success coach-es and retention specialists; summer tutoring programs; a self-service student planning tool; advanced use of data to track student progress; and academic and career guidance provided upon admission and throughout the student’s time at Mercer.
Almost Two Decades Later, ‘Slime’ Never Gets Old
Since 1998, MCCC has collaborated with Rider Univer-sity to lead the observance of National Chemistry Week in Mercer County by fanning out to elementary schools every October. (The College of New Jersey, Princeton University and representatives from the Trenton Section of the American Chemical Society have also participated.) All funding for materials comes from the Trenton Section of the American Chemical Society
Since its start, MCCC’s National Chemistry Week project has served approximately 12,000 students in 500 classes in 41 schools. According to Professor of Chemistry Helen Tan-zini, who coordinates the outreach program, “Our goal is to excite youngsters about the joys and mysteries of chemistry and, while we’re at it, create enthusiasm in the next genera-tion about science and science careers.”
Some of the volunteers for National Chemistry Week 2016. Professor of Chemistry Helen Tanzini, far left, coordinates the project.
International Education Week Activities Go the Distance
Students shared their international backgrounds and their experiences as students in America during “In My Shoes,” hosted by the International Student Organization.
As MCCC observed International Education Week in November, it was apparent that global education is woven into the fabric of the curriculum in a variety of classes every semester year-round.
According to Professor of Business Andrea Lynch, coor-dinator for the Center for Global Opportunities, the college has myriad classes that don’t just touch on international ed-ucation, but focus on it. “Our students are not just citizens of New Jersey or the United States. They are citizens of the world. An understanding of the world beyond our borders is essential in education today,” Lynch said.
The week kicked off with a reception in MCCC’s Center for Global Opportunities, an information office for the Study Tour and Semester Abroad programs. Twelve professors in-vited visitors to join their classroom discussions about world religions, food and culture, global economics and literature. The International Student Organization hosted “In My Shoes: International Students Talk About Their Cultural and Academic Experience at Mercer.”
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NEWS AROUND THE COLLEGE
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MCCC has been named the number one military- friendly school among all two-year colleges in the na-tion by Victory Media, a pro-vider of resource materials to U.S. active duty military personnel and veterans.
This is the second honor Mercer received this fall for its service to student veter-ans. During the college’s an-nual Sept. 11 Remembrance Ceremony, the New Jersey Military Order of the Purple Heart presented the college with a proclamation in rec-ognition of being named a Purple Heart Community College – the first two-year college in New Jersey to re-ceive this designation.
“Our student veterans put their education on hold in service to our nation, and we recognize our responsi-
MCCC Receives Top National Ranking as Military-Friendly School
From left, Alumni Trustee Norm Glover, vice commander of the NJ Military Order of the Purple Heart, Board Chair Mark Matzen, Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes, President Jianping Wang, Director of Veterans Services John Becker, and NJ Military Order of the Purple Heart Commander Joseph Belardo honoring Mercer as a Purple Heart Community College during MCCC’s 9/11 ceremony.
bility to help them transition back to civilian life,” said MCCC President Jianping Wang. Recent improvements include the creation of a new Veterans Resource Cen-ter and study area, which opened last year.
Victory Media, publish-er of G.I. Jobs®, STEM Jobs, and Military Spouse, estab-lished the Military Friendly® Schools rankings in 2009 to help service members and their families select the best colleges, universities, or trade schools for educa-tion and training in civilian careers. The college will be showcased in the annual Guide to Military Friendly® Schools, special education issues of G .I. Jobs® and Mil-itary Spouse, and on www.militaryfriendly.com.
The college closed out Hispanic Heritage Month in October with a delicious meal served at the Center City Café at the James Kerney Campus. From left are Career Training Institute students Jameira Walker, Carmen Hernandez, Tahj-Malik Woods, chef instructor Jorge Maldonado, and student Ronda Tirad.
Leaders of MCCC’s chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society took charge during Community College Completion Challenge Week in October. They assisted hundreds of fellow students in signing pledges to complete their associate degrees and focus on transfer and career goals. The annual initiative is spearheaded by the New Jersey Council of County Colleges. From left (in blue) are PTK members Marissa Griffith, Kaylin Stafford, Cody Willever, and Khanysile Baloyi.
PTK Leads Charge to Completion Celebrating Hispanic Heritage
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The Philosophy Club took on some big issues this fall in its “Civil Discourse Series” with nine lunchtime sessions. According to Club Advisor Ken Howarth, topics are based on prior discussions and current events. In the spring, the club’s focus will be information – facts, news reporting, conflict of interest issues and structural ethics.
Pictured at a fall session are, from left, club officers Oscar Trigueros, Gary Rojas and Nicole Suto, Professor Howarth and Senior Associate Adjunct Professor Parviz Dehghani.
MCCC’s Mental Wellness Resource Fair on Sept. 20 re-minded students they are not alone. Hosted by the college’s Counseling and Community Networks Department, the goal of the event was to raise awareness about available resources and to encourage students to seek help if they hit a roadblock or have a life crisis that is creating barriers to their success.
Said Senior Counselor Dorothy Gasparro, the fair’s orga-nizer, “Our hope is if we keep talking about mental wellness, we will all become more aware of how to take better care of ourselves, and be more compassionate and supportive to those who are suffering.”
Gasparro, president of the New Jersey Community Col-lege Counselors’ Association, notes that one in five Ameri-cans experiences a mental health issue at some time in his or her life. “We want to reduce the stigma and ensure that students are not afraid to ask for help,” she said.
Focusing on Mental Wellness
“Attitudes in Reverse” uses service dogs to break down barriers to communication. The organization was one of 16 to participate in MCCC’s Mental Wellness Resource Fair.
Philosophy Club Members Enlightened Through Discourse
Three areas of New Jersey’s healthcare field are looking especially promising for job seekers, and MCCC’s Center for Continuing Studies (CCS) is providing the answer for employ-ees who need to update their skills or switch course to enter these fields.
According to CCS Director Michael Edmondson, allied health professions, clinical development and regulatory af-fairs, and certification for veterinary assistants are proving to be highly valuable credentials.
“We continue to grow our allied health programs and make them more available at both the West Windsor and James Kerney campuses,” Dr. Edmondson said. Among the programs are Certified Home Health Aide, Certified Nurse Aide, EKG Technician Course and Test Prep, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Technician, and Phlebotomy Tech-nician. CCS will host information sessions about these pro-grams on April 12 and 13. CCS will also offer a free “Smart Start” course April 3 to 14 for individuals seeking basic instruction in math, medical terminology, and the learning skills unique to healthcare professions.
Center for Continuing Studies Focuses on ‘Healthy’ Job GrowthWith the major presence of pharmaceutical and clinical
research firms in New Jersey, CCS’s comprehensive program in Clinical Development and Regularity Affairs is opening doors for those seeking career advancement. Developed in cooper-ation with the pharmaceutical industry, courses may be taken in class or online and include Foundations of Clinical Devel-opment, Regulations and Compliance, and several electives. Those completing the certificate program can earn nine credit hours toward a Drexel University College of Medicine master’s degree in Clinical Research Organization and Management.
Individuals who are drawn to caring for animals can de-velop skills in less than a year to enter the field of veterinary medicine by completing CCS’s Veterinary Assistant Certifi-cate program. Students complete five modules including a clinical externship. The program is approved by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America.
The Center for Continuing Studies also offers a wide variety of personal interest courses, along with numerous classes that start online monthly. More information on the full range of courses is available at www.mccc.edu/ccs.
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NEWS AROUND THE COLLEGE
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This fall, students participated in numerous projects that helped residents in need in the central New Jersey region. Participating groups included the Student Government Associ-ation, the Leadership Education And Development (L.E.A.D.) program, Phi Theta Kappa, the Muslim Student Organization,
This fall, members of the Graphic Design Club conducted an annual clothing drive for HomeFront, the club’s go-to cause for a number of years. According to Club Advisor Tina LaPlaca, students strongly support HomeFront’s mission to provide resources and programs that lessen the immediate pain of homelessness and help families become self-sufficient.
Following a month-long food drive, student athletes from the women’s basketball, men’s soccer and women’s cross country teams, along with three staff members, piled cans, boxes and bags of food – totaling 562 pounds! – into college vans for transport to the Mercer Street Friends (MSF) Food Bank on December 14. The group spent several hours there sorting out items and preparing them for distribution.
A Semester of Giving at Mercer
Students in MCCC’s L.E.A.D. program and the Student Government Association led a People and Pets Food Drive to make “Blizzard Bags,” ensuring that county residents have emergency supplies when storms interrupt deliveries from Meals on Wheels of Mercer County.
Mission accomplished for Phi Theta Kappa and the Muslim Student Organization. Bags of vital hygiene supplies went to the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen during the holiday season. Pictured with the students are advisors Jennifer Cook, far left, and Nichole Pollard, far right.
the Graphic Design Club, and MCCC student athletes. Contri-butions came from multiple sources – students, friends, fami-lies, faculty and staff. “As students at a community college, our focus should be on helping the local community,” said Sauleh Elkhateeb, president of the Muslim Student Organization.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
The Viking News 11
County Survey to Help Match Business Needs with Programs in Higher Education
With hands-on design, problem- solving tasks, and real world experi-ence as centerpieces of the curriculum, the STEM (Science, Technology, En-gineering, Math) Academy at Mercer County Technical Schools (MCTS) is offering a different kind of high school education – and it’s happening in close partnership with MCCC.
In this unique MCTS-MCCC pro-gram, students spend their school day on the college’s West Windsor Campus and can earn up to 32 college credits on the way to their high school diplo-mas. They are still able to participate in after-school programs at their sending school districts.
MCTS instructor John Takach, who is teaching “Principles of Engineering,” says students learn to teach themselves by ex-perimenting. “There is nothing better than seeing the ‘ah-ha’ moments.”
The Academy’s students take class-es as a single cohort and benefit from MCCC courses in Computer-Aided
STEM sophomores, with instructor John Takach, recently used meters to measure voltage and see how electricity flows.
MCCC and MCTS Partner for STEM
Design in 9th grade and 3-D Printing in 10th grade with an MCCC instructor. In their junior and senior years, they will take courses in Mechanical Engineering Technology and Advanced Manufactur-ing Technology. By the time they grad-uate, they will have completed the ma-jority of their high school requirements through college classes in English, math, history and more.
More information about the STEM Academy is available at www.mcts.edu.
Kelsey Review, the literary journal published annually by MCCC for more than three decades, still features con-tributors who live, work and/or study in Mercer County. But the publication adopted a new format this fall and is now posted as a quarterly online publi-cation in September, December, March and June.
Kelsey Review Editor Jacky Vogt-man, Assistant Professor of English, says she is gratified to be at the helm of the publication as it makes this transition. “It is exciting to be a part of the jour-nal’s metamorphosis into something that continues the tradition of bringing together the talented voices of our re-gion while also embracing the changes that are taking place in the literary and technology landscape.”
The editorial board also includes fiction editor Roberta Clipper, Professor of English at Rider University; poetry editor Luray Gross, a poet and storytell-er who works as an Artist in Residence in New Jersey and Pennsylvania; and poetry editor Ellen Jacko, a retired English teacher from Allentown High School.
Submissions for all quarterly issues are accepted online from January 1 to May 31 in the following categories: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, art, pho-tography and reviews. Links to current and past issues of Kelsey Review can be found at www.mccc.edu/kelseyreview.
Kelsey Review Now Available as Quarterly Online Publication
Kelsey Review Editor Jacky Vogtman
This fall, a Mercer County initiative chaired by MCCC President Jianping Wang surveyed area businesses to assess training needs for their current and future workforce. The group convened at the MCCC Conference Center in December to learn the survey results and discuss next steps. Members of the survey commission include, from left, John Thurber, Vice President of Thomas Edison State University; Robert Prunetti, President/CEO of the MidJersey Chamber of Commerce; Assemblywoman Elizabeth Muoio; Dr. George Pruitt, President of Thomas Edison State University; President Wang; Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes; and Peter Crowley, President/CEO of the Princeton Chamber of Commerce.
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TRANSFER AND CAREER NEWS
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MCCC Transfer Fair Puts Four-Year Degrees on RadarRepresentatives from more than 50 four-year institutions visited MCCC in October for the college’s annual Transfer Fair. Representatives from New Jersey state colleges and numerous private institutions shared information about their bachelor’s degree programs with Mercer students. Many advised students to begin planning for the future from their very first semester in order to be best prepared for seamless transfer.
MCCC and Georgian Court University (GCU) signed a formal dual admissions agreement in December that will allow graduates to transfer to GCU with full junior status and tuition discounts of up to 52 percent.
MCCC President Jianping Wang is enthusiastic about this new partnership. “The more we succeed in providing an ac-cessible, affordable, quality education, the more our students will succeed,” Dr. Wang said.
The agreement allows Mercer students who complete 60 or more transferable credits with a grade of C or higher to transfer as many as 75 credits. Students may qualify for tuition discounts at GCU ranging from 20 to 52 percent. Students will also have access to additional GCU grants and scholarships.
“We are happy to expand our mission of affordability, accessibility, and the completion agenda through this agree-ment,” GCU President Joseph Marbach said. “It is natural for Georgian Court and Mercer to work together toward these goals, especially considering our commitment to under-served communities.”
MCCC Signs Wide-Ranging Admissions Agreement with Georgian Court
From left, MCCC Vice President for Academic Affairs David Edwards, MCCC President Jianping Wang, Georgian Court President Joseph Marbach and GCU Provost William Behre.
MCCC Signs Housing Agreement with RiderStudents attending MCCC can now experience campus
life at Rider University as part of a new housing partnership between the two institutions. The agreement signed in De-cember allows Mercer students to live in Rider’s residence halls at a reduced rate. MCCC students will have full access to Rider’s resources, including libraries, dining halls, and exercise and sports facilities. They will also be invited to par-ticipate in Rider’s 150 student clubs and organizations, intra-mural sports and campus events.
“Rider and MCCC have a long history of partnering for the common benefit of our students. This is an exciting new component of how we can help create successful university graduates,” Rider President Gregory G. Dell’Omo said. “We look forward to sharing Rider’s vibrant campus life with Mer-cer students.”
The housing agreement applies to both domestic and international students. Rider will offer tuition discounts and continued reduced housing rates for MCCC grads who de-cide to transfer to Rider to earn their bachelor’s degrees.
“Rider University is a shining example of a four-year institution with a dedication to serve,” MCCC President Jian-ping Wang said. Mercer is Rider’s largest articulation partner.
Three new pro-gram agreements also were signed: Dance Perfor-mance, Graphic Design, and Busi-ness Administration (Accounting).From left, MCCC Vice President for Academic Affairs David Edwards and President Jianping Wang with Rider President Gregory G. Dell’Omo and Provost/Vice President DonnaJean Fredeen.
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TRANSFER AND CAREER NEWS
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MCCC has significantly expanded options for Nursing students to earn their bachelor’s degrees through new agree-ments with area four-year institutions.
In January, officials from MCCC and Rutgers Universi-ty–Camden announced the Rutgers R.N. to B.S. Express pro-gram, which will allow students to complete three years of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at MCCC and seam-lessly transfer to Rutgers–Camden for completion.
The agreement offers guaranteed admission into the Rutgers–Camden R.N. to B.S. program offered on-site at the West Windsor Campus upon successful completion of the A.S. in Nursing degree with a minimum 2.7 GPA, passing of the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), and subsequent licensing as a regis-tered nurse. The agreement allows students to pay the lower tuition at MCCC for an additional year – a savings of more than $20,000 – before enrolling in Rutgers School of Nurs-ing–Camden.
Also in January, MCCC administrators joined leaders at Thomas Edison State University (TESU) to sign an agreement creating a dual enrollment Nursing program that enables stu-dents to complete a B.S.N. degree in four years through the “3+1” program, which allows the transfer of up to 90 credits to the TESU online R.N.-B.S.N. program.
Upon completion of their B.S.N. degree, students will be prepared to advance their education and pursue a Master of Science in Nursing and eventually a Doctor of Nursing Prac-tice through TESU. Students enrolled in the program will be granted provisional acceptance in the R.N.-B.S.N. program at TESU and full acceptance upon completion of the Associate in Science in Nursing degree from Mercer and passage of the NCLEX-RN.
“These agreements are all about creating opportunities for students that will help them succeed in the nursing field,” MCCC President Jianping Wang said. “By offering choices and enabling students to study close to home, we are doing everything we can to assist our students in earning the cre-dentials that are required in healthcare today.”
MCCC’s Career Services office hosted a Job Fair on Oct. 13 for students and alumni. Representatives from more than 30 companies discussed job opportunities with students, who shared their resumes and explored their employment options. Another fair will be held during the spring semester.
New Agreements Provide Pathways for Nursing GraduatesAt left: At the Rutgers ceremony are MCCC President Jianping Wang, seated left, and Rutgers-Camden Chancellor Phoebe Haddon; standing from left, MCCC Director of Nursing Liz Mizerek, Executive Dean for Student Affairs Diane Campbell, Dean for Health Professions Robert Schreyer and Vice President for Academic Affairs David Edwards, with Rutgers-Camden’s Dean of Nursing Joanne Robinson, Director of RN to BN Express Patricia Sayers, Provost Michael Palis, and Vice President for Continuing Studies Rich Novak.
Following the signing ceremony at Thomas Edison State University, MCCC faculty and staff toured the Nursing education facilities.
Employers Meet MCCC Job Seekers
The Viking
FOUNDATION and DONOR NEWS
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At left: The MCCC Professors Emeriti Association continued its unwavering support of students. Front row, from left, are Peira Norell Wood, Milesvia Xiomara Salazar-Martinez, and Rachel Grenon, with President Jianping Wang; back row, Joseph Meyers, left, and Professors Emeriti President Thomas Wilfrid.
Students, Donors Recognized and Applauded At Fall Scholarship Reception
“Dedicated, fearless, creative, inspirational, and wise” were just a few of the messages that adorned the tables in the Mercer Oaks ballroom on Oct. 18 as MCCC held its an-nual Honors Recognition Reception for Continuing Students. More than 200 students and proud family members joined with college administrators and faculty to celebrate achieve-ment and thank the donors who continue to make higher education a reality for Mercer students.
This fall, the MCCC Foundation awarded a total of
$229,471 in scholarships (an almost 25 percent increase over 2015) to 214 students (an increase of 19 students over last year). Students represented practically every area of study at the college and ranged from freshmen in their first semester to students who are preparing to graduate.
Several members of the MCCC family attended the re-ception in two capacities: Foundation Board members Jim Faridy and Dave Fraytak, who have established endowed Architecture scholarships, and Trustee Board Treasurer Carol Golden, whose scholarship was among those presented in honor of the 50th Anniversary. Dr. Tom Wilfrid, president of the MCCC Professors Emeriti Association, was on hand to present scholarships to eight students. In his role as the ex-ecutive director of the Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation, Dr. Wilfrid and his wife, Diane, presented scholarships to four students studying in the health professions. The Mercer County Board of Chosen Freeholders awarded scholarships to 21 first-year students.
Plans Underway for Spring Into Student Success! on April 7 The MCCC Foundation will host its 28th annual celebra-
tion to benefit student scholarships on Friday, April 7, from 6:30 to 10 p.m., at Stone Terrace by John Henry in Hamilton. Co-chairs for the Spring Into Student Success! celebration are Nina D. Melker and the Honorable Pat Colavita Jr. Guests will enjoy live music, dinner and open bar, plus an array of silent auction items – all to support scholarships for Mercer students.
During the event, the college will honor three commu-nity partners: former Trenton Mayor Douglas Palmer, the re-cipient of the Distinguished Benefactor Award for co-chairing MCCC’s Major Gifts Campaign; Area VII Physicians Review Organization, the recipient of the Distinguished Corporate Partner Award for its longstanding commitment to student scholarships in science and health professions; and Genesis Biotechnology Group (GBG) and CEO Dr. Eli Mordechai, the recipient of the Spirit of Education Award for providing on-site experiential learning opportunities for MCCC students.
Two special awards will be presented in honor of the college’s 50th Anniversary. Since 2009, the Mercer County Board of Chosen Freeholders has awarded generous schol-arships to high school students enrolling at Mercer. The Freeholders currently contribute $20,000 annually to fund 10 scholarships. Additionally Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes and his late father, Governor Richard Hughes, will
be recognized for unwavering support for the college and the 50-year legacy of Gov. Hughes in creating the state’s commu-nity college system.
Ticket and sponsor information is available by calling 609-570-3616 or by visiting www.mccc.edu/siss.
Planning for “Spring Into Student Success!” is well underway. Among the committee members are Co-chairs Nina Melker and the Hon. Pasquale Colavita Jr. (front) and, from left, Ed Gwazda, Executive Director of the MCCC Foundation, Peggy Iucolino, Foundation Chair Jeri Bogan Zielinski, and Pat Hartpence.
The Viking
FOUNDATION and DONOR NEWS
Another Tasty Event for Culinary Scholarships
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Major Bequest Focuses on Photography and Horticulture Programs
MCCC is the beneficiary of a major bequest from the estate of Drucella Anne Walker. The donation, which totals $1,080,176, will be used to estab-lish a Charles David Walker and Drucella Anne Walker Endowment for Pho-tography and to create a Charles David Walker and Drucella Anne Walker Fund for Horticulture and Plant Science.
According to Photography Program Coordinator Michael Chovan-Dal-ton, the endowment will allow the Photography program to update its facil-ities and purchase professional-grade equipment that will benefit students’ real world learning experience. “Giving students access to better equipment will improve their knowledge base and the quality of their portfolios, which, in turn, will improve their transfer experiences,” he said. Funds are also expected to be used for excursions to museums and galleries in the tri-state area. A second portion of the bequest will establish an endowed scholarship fund for students studying Photography and Ceramics.
The donation to the Horticulture and Plant Science programs is an un-restricted gift. Amy Ricco, Coordinator of the Horticulture program, is cur-rently in discussion with faculty, Advisory Commission members and other industry representatives to map out the best uses for the funds. “This is an opportunity to talk about the direction of the Horticulture program and how the money should be spent based on our focus. We have an aging facility, plus gardens and equipment that would all benefit from upgrades. This gift will allow us to enhance our students’ learning experience, especially in the area of plant production,” Ricco said.
A lifelong New Jersey resident, first from Hamilton and then from Bor-dentown, Walker studied at MCCC for several semesters in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
The skies brightened just in time for MCCC to welcome 103 community friends to Mercer Oaks for a day of golf and philanthropy on Sept. 27. Hosted by the MCCC Foundation and the Athletics Department, the annual event is held in support of student athletes.
The tournament raised significant dollars for the Student Athlete Scholarship Fund, with proceeds topping $22,000 for the fourth consecutive year. Fourteen Mercer athletes rep-resenting the college’s nine teams had a chance to circulate among the guests and thank them for their participation.
The tournament’s winning foursome was from First Choice Bank and included Herb Ames, Steve Kelly, Louis Kelly and Russ Stupienski. Additional prizes were awarded on four holes for longest drives for men and women and closest to the pin.
Taking the lead in sponsorships was Homasote. Other major sponsors included Suplee, Clooney & Co.; James Haas of the Fretz Corporation; Rich Simkus of PRISM Ad-visory Group LLC; and Scott Needham of Princeton Air Conditioning Inc.
Among the members of the Golf Committee were, from left, Athletics Director John Simone, Andrea Jarvis, co-chairs Allen Silk, Dave Fraytak and Lori Danko, Steve Ritzau, Scott Needham, President Jianping Wang and Foundation Chair Jeri Bogan Zielinski.
Golf Classic Is Winning Round For Donors and Students
Following the tournament, golfers gathered in the Mercer Oaks ballroom, where they enjoyed dinner and an awards ceremony. A highlight of the evening reception was a silent auction featuring sports related items.
More than 100 food enthusiasts came out to enjoy a tasty experience in support of scholarships. Now in its third year, the Culinary Tasting Benefit, held on Oct. 12, featured dishes prepared by close to 20 area restaurants and food service companies, along with five classes of MCCC culinary students. Scholarship recipients Telma Stucker, left, and Valarie Herbe are pictured with their winning desserts.
The Viking
ALUMNI FEATURES
PTA Alum Barbara Vees Dives Into New CareerBarbara Vees ’12 (A.A.S., Physical
Therapist Assistant; A.S., Exercise Sci-ence) has made the most of her PTA degree from Mercer. After passing the national licensing exam, she went on to earn her certification in aquatics thera-py. She is now employed at CentraState Medical Center in Freehold, where she helps patients in this specialized field of therapy.
Formerly employed in the IT field, Vees enrolled at Mer-cer in 2009 after a horseback riding accident left her with a
herniated disc. She took a keen interest in her subsequent physical therapy sessions and decided to devote her career to helping others regain strength and mobility.
This fall, Vees returned to the college to lead an aquatics therapy session in the MCCC swimming pool with current PTA students. She demonstrated techniques that use the comfort and healing power of water to aid patients in their physical rehabilitation.
Vees also offered students a few words of advice. “I tell students to set realistic goals, work hard and be patient,” Vees said. “It takes time to achieve your goals, but it is worth the effort if you find a career path that makes you happy.”
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MCCC Welcomes Back Two Theatre Alumna as DirectorsThis fall, the Theatre and Dance programs welcomed back two alumni to direct student productions. Deena Jiles-Shu’aib ’07 (A.A., Education), right, took her turn directing “Never The Sinner” in November. The following month, Nicole Erkoboni ’13 (A.F.A., Fine Arts), left, was back at Mercer to direct the dark comedy “The Secretaries.” Jiles-Shu’aib returns in the spring to direct “Blood Wedding” in April. Says Theatre Program Coordinator Jody Gazenbeek-Person, back, “We have had mostly male directors in the past. I really wanted to bring in female directors. It is important to represent as many voices on stage as we can. It enriches our students’ academic journey when different people bring their perspectives and experiences to the process of putting up a show.”
Chris Moore Says MCCC Education Transferred Well to WorkplaceGraphic Designer Chris Moore ’10
(A.F.A., Visual Arts) gives top grades to his first alma mater. “Mercer gave me a solid foundation to build my career,” Moore said during a fall visit to the “MCCC Arts at Fifty“ exhibit at The Gallery at Mercer. “I have really used the skills I developed at Mercer. Much of what I do is still based on what I learned there.”
After graduating in 2010, Moore transferred to Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers Uni-versity, where he pursued a double major, earning bachelor’s degrees in Fine Arts and Anthropology in 2013.
“Once I transferred to a big university, I realized how much I took for granted at Mercer. Practically every Mercer professor I had exceeded my expectations. They are at Mercer
to teach. It’s clearly a labor of love for them,” he said, adding that because of small class sizes and instructors’ availability outside the classroom, he developed strong relationships with faculty members and an extensive portfolio of his work.
After college, Moore worked for several firms as a graph-ic designer. He is currently employed as an in-house designer for Mistras Group, a global engineering firm with offices in Princeton Junction. Among Moore’s varied projects have been newsletter designs, catalogs, package designs, social media content, trade show displays and more. He also does freelance work.
Especially in his higher level MCCC classes, Moore ob-served that he and his fellow designers became a tight-knit group. “The work of my peers was outstanding. It made me want to get better in every way,” he said. More about Chris and his work can be found at www.ChrisMoore.Design.
The Viking
Especially for AlumniDid you know? MCCC alumni have borrowing
privileges at the college’s two libraries; ticket dis-counts at Kelsey Theatre; membership discounts at the Fitness Center; and use of College Central Network, a premier online job posting and resume tool.
Keep us posted on your successes by emailing [email protected] and join our LinkedIn network of close to 15,000 alumni, faculty, staff and friends at www.mccc.edu/LinkedIn.
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Kathryn Kingsley Follows ‘Slow and Steady’ Route to Success as Rutgers Laboratory Technician
Kathryn Kingsley ’12 (A.S., Biology; A.S., Chemistry) delayed her route to college, but once she got started, she steadily worked her way to success. Today she is a lab technician at Rutgers University New Brunswick, where she earned dual degrees in Plant Biotechnology and Plant Science Research in 2015.
Attending MCCC as an adult, Kingsley pursued her studies part-time starting in the mid-2000s. In 2012, she graduated with dual degrees and was recognized at the Honors Convocation with the Outstanding Volunteer Award in Chemistry.
Kingsley made the most of her time on campus and in the lab. In her final semester, she conducted an individualized Honors research project on local wasps with Professor of Biol-ogy Laura Blinderman. “Having that research experience gave me a big advantage when I transferred,” Kingsley recalled.
She kept up her impressive pace of work at Rutgers, continuing independent research projects and working as an intern in the Rutgers Floriculture Greenhouse and Department of Plant Biology and Pathology. Following graduation, she was the ideal candidate for a job as a technician in the lab of Dr. James White in the Plant Biology and Pathology Department.
Kingsley’s current project focuses on an in-vasive plant commonly found in ditches, canals and waterways along the coastline of the northeast United States. She has been the co-author with Ivelisse Irizarry on nine electronic publications for the National Center for Biotechnology Information and the solo author of two. She is a member of the American Society of Microbiology and the Ameri-can Phytopathological Society.
Kingsley says she shares the knowledge she gained at Mercer with every person she works with in the lab. “I learned about chemical safety from Professor of Chemistry Helen Tanzini and the proper handling of haz-ardous biological materials from Professor of Biology Diane Hilker. I have taught several people how to make differential stains and shared the protocol we used in Mercer’s microbi-ology lab,” Kingsley said.
This happy grad has clearly not forgotten her roots. She continues to return to MCCC’s West Windsor Campus in the fall to participate in National Chemistry Week. “I am delight-ed to be part of a volunteer effort that instills an excitement about science. I know firsthand how that can lead to satisfy-ing careers,“ she said.
Composer and musician Kento Iwasaki ’09 (A.A., Music) creates music that spans genres, cultures and centuries. In September, he returned to Mercer to present “Beloved Prey,” a one-hour “portable” chil-dren’s opera based on clas-sic Japanese Noh theater, at Kelsey Theatre. The opera
Kento Iwasaki Spans Genres and Cultures as Composer/Performerblends traditional Japanese instrumentation, stylized dance movements, and col-orful costumes and masks in a mesmerizing story about an unusual friendship between a lioness and the antelope she takes under her wing.
Iwasaki says he enrolled at MCCC in 2007 for all the typical reasons – it was con-venient and affordable. And, he was facing the same chal-lenges that many community college students do. He worked full- and part-time jobs and was juggling family responsibilities while attend-ing college.
What he has done since, however, is anything but typical.
After earning his associate degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Music, Iwasaki transferred to Temple
University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Music Composition. He then com-pleted his master’s in Classical Composition from the Man-hattan School of Music.
These days Iwasaki is put-ting all that talent together as a freelance composer, music instructor and opera company director. His portable opera
concept is drawing lots of attention and praise. It was recently featured on JapanCul-ture•NYC, New York City’s no. 1 blog for Japanese cul-ture. He performed songs from “Beloved Prey” at the Ikeba-na International’s AKI NO KOKORO: Autumn Portraits in Ikebana & Koto at NYC’s Kita-no Hotel last year.
The Viking18 The Viking
SPORTS REPORT
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Men’s SoccerWhile the men’s soccer team was forced to accept an
abridged post-season, there were numerous bright spots and proud moments for the 2016 Vikings. With the loss of 17 sophomores from last year’s memorable Region 19 cham-pionship squad, this was a very different team. But Head Coach Widmarc Dalce and his staff are more than satisfied with the progress they saw on the field and the signals that sends for next year.
After posting a 5-0 record during the month of October, Mercer was a very solid no. 2 seed going into the Region 19 semifinal match-up against Harcum College. The Vikings gave their opponent just one chance by not fully clearing the ball in the early minutes and Harcum used the opportunity to score the game’s only goal. The Vikings ended their season with a 9-6-2 record.
Sophomore leaders included midfielders Guilherme Franca, Humberto Blanco, Wesley Gramajo Reyes, Arinze Iloka, and Jared Rogers, and defenders Carlos Leal and Zach Castaldo. Among the freshmen who stepped up in a big way were defender Talys Drummond, midfielder Dean Klemmer, and goalkeeper Abby Mohamed-Hamza.
According to Dalce, this year’s squad did many of the right things. “They were always happy to be on the field.
They worked hard at practice every day. They were disci-plined and did a good job of playing together as a team. We will build on it for next year,” he said, adding that most of the freshmen are expected to return.
Four players were recognized for post-season honors. Iloka, Leal and Vladik Margolin were named to the All-Re-gion First Team. Gramajo Reyes was named to the All-Region Second Team.
Dalce, who completed his fifth season as head coach, was assisted by John Pietrowski, Mark Pratico, Haris Hbawi and Milton Suah.
A come-from-behind win over Essex County College in late September suggested better things to come in October, when the Vikings posted a 5-0 record.
Women’s SoccerHaving completed her first season, Head Coach Elyse
Diamond is feeling good about the women’s soccer team she coached this fall. “They were a hardworking group of women with lots to contribute to the team’s success,” she said.
The Vikings entered the tournament as the no. 1 seed with a 13-3-1 record. But, in what Diamond described as just one of those games where nothing flowed, the Vikings lost to Har-
cum College on penalty kicks after two scoreless overtimes.Throughout the season, the women played like a team on
fire. Their 10 shutouts are a testimony to their skill. “We totally dominated. It takes an army to do that,” Diamond declared.
The Vikings finished 27th in the nation in goals scored with 61. Forward Janine Dennis completed her Mercer career in the top 10 nationally in goals scored with 28 in 14 games and was named Region 19 Player of the Year. Goalkeeper Shaunice Palms was 23rd in the nation with 25 saves in 17 games and was named the GSAC Goalie of the Week and the NJCAA Division I Goalie of the Week in September. Other strong contributors were forwards Giselle Chica, KellyAnn Krepp, midfielders Jacky Gummel, Cassidy Denno and Jenni-fer Macario, and defenders Kendal Parah, Jamie Bogdol, Toni Catelli, and Marissa Reed.
In addition to Dennis topping the All-Region list, Parah and Reed were also named to the All-Region First Team. Gummel was named to the All-Region Second Team.
Diamond is already beginning to focus on next year’s roster and the recruiting process that will take place this spring. “We expect at least six solid players to return and will be looking to recruit 10 to 12. We will build on this year’s success.” Diamond was assisted by Lauren Sparano and Ma-rissa Segal.
From left, Jamie Bogdol, Cassidy Denno, Toni Catelli, Marissa Reed and Janine Dennis, who was named Region 19 Player of the Year.
The Viking
For More Sports News, Visit www.mccc.edu/athletics
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Women’s TennisThe women’s tennis
team ended its 2016 season on a high note at the Region 19 Championship, which was held at Rowan College @ Gloucester Oct. 8 to 10. The Vikings fell just short of qualifying for the NJCAA Di-vision III National Champi-onship, tying for third place with Northampton Com-munity College. (Only the top three teams qualify for nationals and, in the case of a tie, that third spot goes to the team with more wins in finals matches; Northampton had one, while Mercer had none.) And so the Vikings’ season came to a close.
While team members ex-pressed their disappointment at not moving on to nationals, Head Coach Marc Vecchiolla is extremely proud of his team’s efforts, especially at the region tournament.
“With a regular season record of 4-5, we were hop-ing to get the very best from each player at the tournament and we succeeded. Everyone contributed to the team’s point total,” Vecchiolla said.
The first round of the championship helped put the Vikings into contention. Players in five of the team’s six singles flights won their matches: Rachel Desane (no. 2), Kayhima Win (no. 3),
Allyson Hing (no. 4), Alexis McCray (no. 5) and Rachel Angelucci (no. 6). Three play-ers reached the finals: Desane and Jasmine Clark at no. 1 doubles and Hing at no. 4 singles. Clark, Desane and Hing earned All-Region Sec-ond Team honors.
Looking back on the sea-son, Vecchiolla has nothing but praise for this team. “This was a wonderful group of women. Every player showed a strong commitment to improving her game. As a team, they were a motivated, cohesive unit. These women were excellent representatives for Mercer. The coaching staff will miss those who are moving on, which in-clude the top three players on our roster,” he said.
Vecchiolla was assisted this season by Ralph Ben-civengo and Barb Pleva.
At regionals, from left, Allyson Hing, Jasmine Clark, Rachel Desane (kneeling), Alexis McCray, Kayhima Win and Rachel Angelucci.
Women’s Cross CountryIt was a total team effort as the women’s cross country
team took home the Region 19 title on Oct. 30 at Branch Brook Park in Newark. The Vikings competed against Essex County College and Del Tech in Division I, winning the 5K race with 39 points, followed by Del Tech with 43 and Essex with 48. (The team with the lowest point total wins.)
Sophomore Sage Southard led the Vikings with a third place finish overall, followed by Taymani Rivera-Kissling. Freshmen Jacky Leszcynski, Breanna Santini, Maria Ramos, Veronica Wise and Megan Jean all crossed the finish line within the next two minutes.
According to Head Coach Mike DeAngelis, winning Region 19 was the team’s goal from the beginning of the sea-son. “This team put in so much hard work. We began practic-ing in early August and the women were totally dedicated to it,” he said, adding that most of the squad balanced academ-ics and jobs, in addition to athletics.
DeAngelis believes that the women, along with members of the men’s cross country team, motivated each other. “They were a good group of runners and an even better group of people. We created a family of runners.”
The team traveled to El Dorado, KS, for the NJCAA Di-vision I Championships. DeAngelis reports that the women
struggled in that race. “The competition was fierce, but it was still a great experience for them to compete at the national level.” He added that it gave the freshmen a taste of what they will need to do next year to be in contention.
DeAngelis was assisted by Tony Genovesi and Doug Johnson.
From left, runners Breanna Santini, Sage Southard, Jacqueline Leszcynski, Taymani Rivera-Kissling, Megan Jean and Veronica Wise. Not pictured: Maria Ramos.
OCE • 1000 • 2/17
1966-2016
1200 Old Trenton RoadWest Windsor, NJ 08550
God of CarnageFebruary 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12
Boeing, BoeingFebruary 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26
Reock & Roll Revue’s Aja & The Music of Steely DanMarch 4, 5
To Kill a MockingbirdMarch 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26
Big Fish the MusicalMarch 31; April 1, 2, 7, 8, 9
For tickets to Kelsey events, call 609-570-3333 or visit
www.kelseytheatre.net
Full-Length Family Shows
Kelsey Theatre • Spring 2017 CalendarSoar to New Heights
The House at Pooh CornerApril 22
BiscuitMay 20
Kelsey Kids Series
Blood WeddingApril 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30
Mercer Dance EnsembleMay 6, 7
The Boy from OzMay 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21
Disney’s The Little MermaidMay 26, 27, 28; June 2, 3, 4
The Glass MenagerieJune 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18
Measure for MeasureJune 23, 24, 25, 30; July 1, 2
The Gallery at Mercer
Support Mercer County Community College! Visit www.mccc.edu/give
Read prior issues of The Viking, published twice a year,at www.mccc.edu/viking. And stay connected with
MCCC 24/7 at www.mccc.edu for all the latest news,events, and offerings from your community college.
Mercer County Artists 2017February 20 - March 23Opening Reception February 22, 5 to 7 p.m.
Presented in partnership with the Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Commission
MCCC Visual Arts Student ExhibitionApril 10 - May 5Opening Reception April 12, 5 to 7 p.m.
The 2016 Best In Show winner Janis Purcell with her wood and mixed media sculpture.
Conversations with Photography GreatsProfessor Michael Chovan-Dalton, coordinator of Photography and Digital Imaging, is the creator of thePhotoShow, a podcast he co-hosts with NYC photographer Kai McBride. Chovan-Dalton says the show connects and reconnects professional photographers and expands that community to include new photographers including MCCC students. Listen at www.thePhotoShow.org.
