OCEAN VIEWS - Ocean County College · first two weeks back to school. OCC employees and their family members experiencing stress due to Hurricane Sandy . were strongly encouraged

A NEWSLETTER FOR OCEAN COUNTY COLLEGE ALUMNI, OUR COLLEGE FAMILY, AND THE COMMUNITYWinter 2013 Vol. VII : No. 1

OCEAN VIEWS

Highlights: Ocean News p.4

Alumni Spotlight p.14

OCC Foundation p.20

Athletics p.23

Mentoring students half way around the worldOCC's Ben Castillo shares his experiences from Afghanistan p.6

Special Report: Hurricane Sandy p.2, p.11

2 Winter 2013 | Ocean County College

Winter 2013 Vol. VII : No. 1A NEWSLETTER FOR OCC ALUMNI, OUR COLLEGE FAMILY, AND THE COMMUNITY

Dr. Jon H. Larson President, Ocean County CollegeJan Kirsten Executive Director of College Relations

EDITORIAL TEAMProject Coordinator: Joanne Padrone Director of Resource DevelopmentEditor: RoseAnn D’Urso Manager of Promotional ProgrammingWriter: Juliet Kaszas-Hoch Public Relations WriterLayout: Scott Bruinooge Coordinator of Publications

Please address comments and submissions to [email protected] www.ocean.edu

Vision StatementAlumni Affairs develops relationships and establishes lifelong connections between Ocean County College and its alumni, family and friends, leading to increased support for the institution’s mission and goals.

The mission of Alumni Affairs is to: connect and engage OCC alumni and future alumni to the college and to each other; increase the number of alumni, family, and friends who take an active role in the growth of OCC; support and advocate for OCC; maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all alumni; and cultivate alumni as leaders, volunteers, advocates, and donors for OCC.

© 2013 Ocean County College. OceanViews is published bi-annually by the Office of College Relations Ocean County College, College Drive, PO Box 2001, Toms River, NJ 08754-2001.

A Letter from OCC President Jon H. Larson, PhD

To OCC Alumni, our College Family, and the Community:

On behalf of the Ocean County College Board of Trustees, I write first to express profound hope that this letter finds all of you safe and secure after the devastation from Hurricane Sandy this past Octo-ber. While we needed to close the College for two weeks due to power outages, we were blessed to have been able to reopen our campus with virtually no damage to our facilities, allowing us to resume our major educational mission.

I’d like to offer a debt of gratitude to Ocean County’s heroes during Hurricane Sandy – the police officers, firefighters, paramed-ics, emergency medical technicians, military personnel, hospital staffs, gas and electric linemen, construction crews, and ordinary citizens who reached out to help their neigh-bors in time of distress.

I’d also like to deeply express my thanks to our facilities, maintenance, payroll, and security staff who devoted countless hard hours both to helping our employees and to restoring the campus for our use. Due to massive storm damage and extensive power outages across Toms River, it took nine days to get the “lights turned back on.” But I’m proud to say that once the utility companies were able to return power to OCC, it took our campus crew less than 48 hours to make all of our buildings fully-habitable … hours I might add that included a Nor’easter and six inches of snow that had to be cleared from

our extensive parking lots and campus walk-ways. The men and women who performed

this “restoration miracle” were our own OCC “first responders,” and they made the campus safe for our return.

In addition, despite the storm, lack of power, and closure of the campus, all employees were paid on schedule due to the tireless

efforts of our payroll department, with most of this work done from their homes. Such commitment and selfless effort is a hallmark of the community spirit of our employees of which we are truly proud.

I’d like to take this opportunity to outline some services that OCC offered to its students and employees to assist them during the initial days and weeks following Hurricane Sandy.

First, as we dealt with the aftermath of the storm, the College established a Student Disaster Relief Fund just days after Hurricane Sandy hit. Many OCC employees and stu-dents donated money in order to help OCC students who were in dire need return to school and complete the fall semester.

Next, Employee Emergency Loans were offered to all employees hit hard by the storm. This interest-free loan helped faculty, admin-istration, and staff rebuild their lives including homes, cars, and personal articles that were damaged or washed away in the storm surge.

Third, we organized the Employee Volunteer Brigade and a Community Cleanup Team. Many College employees volunteered for these two groups in order

Winter 2013 | OCEAN VIEWS 3

to help our students, coworkers, and the community-at-large.

Additionally, our Student Life Office coordinated a Temporary Housing Program for displaced students and employees. OCC faculty, administration, staff, and students opened their homes to fellow-students and coworkers who needed shelter. A Carpool Message Board was also set up to assist stu-dents and employees to locate individuals who either needed or could provide a ride to and from campus.

Through emails and phone calls, we learned early on that many students lost not only their homes but their textbooks and school supplies. We wanted to be able to greet students, who were displaced, with a care package of new school supplies when classes resumed on Monday, November 12. To accomplish this task, the College Book-store implemented School Supply Packs for Students. The Bookstore provided drawstring bags, a voucher for a free cup of coffee and an OCC pen and notebook. With donations from faculty and staff, we were also able to fill each bag with pencils, erasers, pencil sharpeners, highlighters, pens, Post-it Notes, folders, note-books, notepads, and snacks.

In addition, the College Bookstore offered Replacement Textbooks for those students who purchased their textbooks through the OCC Bookstore and subsequently lost their textbooks during Hurricane Sandy.

The Student Life Office wanted the stu-dents’ first week back on campus to be both a welcoming and helpful experience. For five days, Free Cell Phone and Electronic Charging Stations were available and Free Coffee and Tea was set up in the College Center Lobby.

To help both our students and employees, the College sponsored three days of Disaster Information Sessions. Faculty and staff were available to answer questions regarding OCC’s response to and assistance with Hurricane Sandy issues. In addition to the College counselors’ regularly scheduled hours, Counseling Services arranged special Hurricane Sandy Support Groups. Anyone affected by this historic storm was able to drop in on any of the sessions held over the first two weeks back to school.

OCC employees and their family members experiencing stress due to Hurricane Sandy were strongly encouraged to take advantage of the Employee Assistance Program offered through Preferred Behavioral Consulting Group. A professional counselor was available to assess each person’s needs and provide them with the appropriate assistance, including information and referrals. There was no cost to employees or their dependent family members for this service.

Because the College was closed for two weeks, Special Academic Scheduling was made available. Students were offered a variety of options to make up work and class time missed during the College’s closing. Other academic accommodations were made includ-ing Extending the Withdrawal Deadline and Extending the Graduation Application Deadline for the fall 2012 semester.

While these were the initial programs set in place in immediate response to Hurricane Sandy, we remain aware, however, that there are still many of our College family members suffering in countless ways in our storm-torn county. The College will continue its mission of education and has also taken on a new mission of relief assistance, as much as it is

possible for us to do.

The faculty, administration, and staff at Ocean County College are back to work. Our employees are upbeat … hopeful … and rebuilding their lives. We may not be in control of the weather but we are in control of our response. We have a mission to educate. We are resolved to fulfill that mission. We have a strong sense of purpose and we will continue to grow. While all things may not have returned to “normal,” we are living our lives as “usual” and are slowly returning to the “new normal.”

What is needed at this time is for all resi-dents in Ocean County to return to “life as usual.” One way to do that is to continue your daily activities … go to work, attend school, resume your workout at the gym, stroll through the mall, enjoy dinner at an area restaurant, purchase gifts from local merchants, and of course, enjoy the New Year. Take time to reflect not on the material things that may have been lost, but reflect on those non-material things that we are blessed with – the love of family and friends, our health, and the opportunity to start over and forge ahead. You are in control – create your “new normal.”

No doubt, in the weeks, perhaps months, to come, Ocean County College will discover other necessary services that we can and will make available to members of the College family and the community-at-large. We will continue to reach out and do whatever we can to help.

Our continued thoughts and prayers are with you – our alumni, faculty, administration, staff, students, and the community.

Additional storm-related coverage begins on page 11

d s a s p e a k y o u r p e a c e . o r g

A project of the Duluth-Superior Area Community Foundation’s Millennium Group. Design donated by H. T. Klatzky & Associates.

This is not a campaign to end disagreements. Rather it is a campaign to improve communication by reminding ourselves of the basic principles of respect.

www.ocean.edu / civi l i ty.htm

Brought to you with the permission of


Ocean NewsOCC is Among the Top 100!

OCC has been named for the second year by Community College Week in its listing of the Top 100 Associate Degree Producers in the nation. Since 1988, Community College Week has been a national publication covering community, technical, and junior colleges. The Top 100 listing includes institutions that have awarded the largest number of associate degrees. In 2009-2010, OCC placed 87th; the new data shows OCC ranked at 84th, having conferred 1,566 degrees in 2010-2011. This rank is noteworthy in that OCC is competing with many community col-leges within the country that have much higher enrollments but do not award as many degrees.

Aiken Encore RecognitionThe Garden State Philharmonic nominated Ocean County College for an Aiken Encore

Award for being a “beacon of innovation to other institutions of higher education” and “a “valued partner to the many cultural institutions throughout central and southern New Jersey.” The South Jersey Cultural Alliance presents Aiken Encore Awards to honor organizations that have made significant contributions in support of the arts in the eight counties in southern New Jersey. The Philharmonic’s Artistic Director and Conductor Anthony LaGruth presented the award at the Landis Theater in Vineland. Carol Kaunitz, Director of Auxiliary Services – who represented OCC at the event – accepted the award.

Model of Civility The College of Western Idaho is in the process of developing a Civility Statement. After

reviewing many statements online, from a wide variety of institutions throughout the country, they were most impressed with the quality of care and thoroughness of OCC’s Civility Statement and requested permission to use it as a foundation for its work. This request is a testament to the concern and effort taken by the members of OCC’s Civility Team to reflect the College’s institutional mission and goals in a way that embraces all aspects of a community college.

SEC Celebrates!In a continuing effort to celebrate culture, diversity, and community, the Southern Education

Center, located in Manahawkin, prides itself on offering various events throughout the school year. Some of these events include Welcome Back Week, Candy Heart Valentines Contest, Women’s History Month, Black History Month, Spring Fling Day, and guest speakers. In con-junction with a women’s shelter, SEC students were able to collect and provide clothing for those in need. And in an effort to provide a safe environment, the SEC provided the use of its facility and staff to the Stafford Township Police and Ocean County SWAT team for a week of training including “active shooter” drills. By providing such services, the climate and culture of the SEC adds to the morale and sense of community.

Nursing Program Ranks SecondOCC received the results of the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered

Nurses (NCLEX- RN) for the period October 2011 to March 2012. Of the 46 OCC Nursing Program graduates who sat for the exam during that time, 44 nurses, or 96% were successful. Those results rank OCC second of the 22 programs in our jurisdiction.


Theatre Company Honored The New Jersey Association of Community Theatre (NJACT) presented two Perry Awards

to the OCC Theatre Company for its production of Book of Days. Bryn E. Farace and Judi Madigan, Technical Supervisor, won for Outstanding Lighting Design. Ashley Jeanne Flach was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Play and Diane Clayton received a nomina-tion for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play. The Perry Awards annually honor outstanding community theatre productions throughout New Jersey. The 2012 Perry Awards Ceremony was held at the Doubletree Hotel & Executive Meeting Center in Somerset, NJ. NJACT is a non-profit corporation dedicated to recognizing achievements by artists of all disciplines involved in the performance and production of community theatre in New Jersey.

Local Senior Artists Place at State LevelEight Ocean County artists were honored at the NJ Senior Citizens Art Contest Award

Reception held at Meadow Lakes in East Windsor, NJ. The original artwork was created by artists ages 60 and over. Among the winners, Lidia Brodetsky took 1st Place in Oil, in the non-professional division, and for the second year in a row, she took home Best in Show (Non-Pro) – this year for On the Cusp of Adulthood (shown at right). In the professional divi-sion, Louis Riccio took 1st Place in Oil for Hobo Joe and Barbara de la Cuesta took 1st Place in Sculpture for Young Girl with Earring. Five other Ocean County artists took home 2nd, 3rd, and Honorable Mention awards.

BOOK OF DAYS

OCC Foundation Receives “Robin Hood Grant”As a result of the devastation caused

by Hurricane Sandy, the Robin Hood Foundation, New York City’s largest poverty-fighting organization, recently reactivated its Relief Fund, which was created 11 years ago to assist thousands of survivors following the 9/11 attacks. Robin Hood has launched a large-scale effort to help individuals in the tri-state area whose lives have been affected by the storm.

On December 12, 2012 the Robin Hood Foundation presented the 12-12-12 Concert for Sandy Relief, a special musical event that was watched by over two billion people worldwide. The concert raised money for its Relief Fund.

During OCC’s December 14 Board of Trustees meeting, it was announced that the Robin Hood Foundation awarded the Ocean County College Foundation a $200,000 emergency grant to provide assistance to

OCC students impacted by Hurricane Sandy. Funds may be used in a variety of ways, all with the goal of ensuring that OCC students can continue their education despite their hardships.

“This is the largest single grant the college has ever been awarded,” said Dr. Jon H. Larson, OCC President.

The award is the direct result of a proposal submitted to the Robin Hood Foundation by Sandy S. Broughton, Executive Director of the OCC Foundation, just two days before the grant was awarded.

“With an estimate of over 3,000 Ocean County College students affected by Hurricane Sandy, $200,000 in financial assistance from the Robin Hood Foundation will be a tremendous help with expenses and will keep many students enrolled in school, uninterrupted,” said Broughton. “The OCC Foundation takes pride in being able to assist

the students during this tough time and will continue to seek funding throughout the long recovery period ahead,” she added.

In total, the Robin Hood Foundation will distribute $1.36 million in funding to charities in Ocean County that are active in assisting Hurricane Sandy victims. Those charities include the Food Bank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, Ocean Community Economic Action Now, the OCC Foundation, Ocean Mental Health Services, Community Services Inc., St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Church of Grace and Peace, HABCore, Homes for All, Hometown Heroes, Point Pleasant Presbyterian Church, and the Hope Center. Grant awards ranged from $15,000 to $450,000.

This is the first time that the Robin Hood Foundation has donated to groups outside of New York City.


ProfileFrom Campus to Kabul and Back AgainProfessor Grateful for Experience – and Freedom

Juliet Kaszas-Hoch, Staff Writer

“Following the terrorist attacks of 9-11,” Castillo explained, “I led the newly-formed Security Services Unit that was responsible for developing and conducting security surveys of state buildings and facilities throughout NJ. My final assignment with the State Police was as an Assistant Bureau Chief of the State Governmental Security Bureau at the State House.”

After his retirement from the police in 2003, Castillo was hired by OCC, where he is currently an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice. From 2009 to 2011, he served as Dean of the School of Social Science and Human Services then was granted a leave of absence to deploy to Afghanistan.

“There is much government-sponsored contracting work being accomplished both here at home and overseas in conjunction with the efforts of our military and coalition force,” said Castillo. “The NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan (NTM-A), under which I worked, is one such program. Once the conventional military operation of ousting the Taliban government was achieved, there was a need to establish, under the rule of law, a civilian police force. Since civilian policing is not the primary focus of our military, much of the mission of training and mentoring the police force fell to the private contracting sector.

“As the end of my tenure as dean approached,” Castillo added, “I thought it would be a valuable experience before returning to the classroom to teach in the criminal justice and homeland security programs.”

As Castillo explained, some facets of the ANCOP training pro-gram abroad were similar to the State Police. “The organization was paramilitary in nature, their members were subject to transfer, and

Ben Castillo, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice, returned home to New Jersey in August 2012 after

a year in the Middle East to advise, train, and mentor Afghani police officers. Because of his prior experience as a NJ State Police Officer, Castillo was commissioned for this position by the Defense Contract Manage-ment Agency – a component of the U.S. Department of Defense – with the goal of increasing Afghanistan’s overall capability to provide police presence, improve public security, and support the rule of law.

Within days of arriving in Afghanistan, Castillo was assigned to personnel security, designated a “shooter.” In this capacity, he explained, “one rides in the right front passenger seat and maintains a 360 degree lookout for anything that may be a threat to the vehicle and/or its passengers. Should something occur, the preferred choice is to drive out of the danger zone – commonly known as ‘getting off the X’ – but if the vehicle were to become disabled, other action would be necessary, which might include the use of deadly force for defensive purposes.”

After five weeks working these security details – alongside indi-viduals from Bulgaria, Romania, South Africa, and Nepal – Castillo was transferred to assist with the training of the Afghan National Civil Order Police (ANCOP), the purpose for which he was originally contracted and deployed.

Castillo, a Toms River resident, is Jersey born and educated, with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the Richard Stockton College of NJ. He worked briefly as a state corrections officer after graduation, then joined the NJ State Police, where he held various assignments, from patrol duty to State Police Academy instruction to a position in the Internal Affairs Bureau.

Feature

(l. to r.) A Lesson in Contradictions – Afghani traffic features a donkey making its way downtown and a Blackberry billboard ad. Resting in the Shade – Castillo and Afghani trainees take a break in between classes. Lassie Come Home – This pooch first made a home under a Russian truck and was slowly befriended by American soldiers. Sure Shot – AK-47 rifles line the wall before being handed out for police training.


seldom did the officers work in their hometowns. In this program, our focus was on training and mentoring the police force. We partnered primarily with the U.S. Military, but also worked among other mem-bers of the coalition forces as well. These included military units from the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) such as Canada, France, Germany, and Italy. On a daily basis however, we worked with a U.S. Marine contingent.

“We provided training on a wide array of topics,” he contin-ued. “They included teaching the Afghan officers to drive a stick-shift, self-defense, basic patrol procedures, medical procedures, weapons maintenance and quali-fications, improvised explosive device (IED) awareness, and the Afghan Constitution. The marines were the primary trainers in the weapons systems such as the AK-47 rifle, RPK automatic rifle, the PKM machine gun, and combat first-aid. With the exception of the military weapons, we provided a very basic training regimen that included many of the same topics and techniques that are taught here in U.S. police academies, but to a much different audience.”

While in Afghanistan, Castillo stayed on the U.S. Army Base Camp Phoenix, where “the living conditions were quite good,” with a large dining facility, a well-equipped gym, television that broadcast the Armed Forces Network, and internet service. Although there were frequent power outages, Castillo was able to occasionally Skype with family, friends, and OCC colleagues. “Tracy Fatigante, the office manager of the School of Social Science and Human Services, kept me abreast of happenings at the college and maintained a constant check on my level of treats from home,” said Castillo.

One day, Castillo was surprised by a package that had been prepared and sent overseas to him by John DiRocco, formerly of OCC Security,

and Professor Kathy Basilotto’s classes. “The box was so full that its contents covered the top of my bunk. I shared most of the toiletries with the enlisted military members with whom we lived and worked. We were all most grateful. The treats were always a little bit of home.”

Castillo was stationed in and around Kabul, Afghanistan’s capital, for his entire deployment. “We had an eighteen mile commute from our base at Camp Phoenix to our training site. Our route took us through

one of the busier parts of the city. I often thought of how closely it resembled some of the hectic urban areas at home – people in western-style dress making their way among busy storefronts, sidewalk ven-dors, and traffic jams. Once we made our way through the congestion, past Kabul Airport, the traffic eased. We wound our way through traffic circles, passed huge wedding

halls and shopping areas, then slowed again as we drove through open markets. In these bazaars, all kinds of wares were available for sale. There were displays of fruits and vegetables, used electronics, plastic water jugs, carpets, clothing – you name it, they seemed to have it.”

Traveling to the shooting ranges on Kabul’s outskirts – for weapons qualifications, and for training and qualifying the Afghans on their various weapons systems – required

“...As the end of my tenure as dean of the School of Social Science and Human Services approached, I thought [Afghanistan] would be a valuable experience before returning to the classroom to teach in the criminal justice and homeland security programs.”

– Ben Castillo, OCC Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice

continued on page 8


driving various routes. “One led us through an industrial area with ship-ping containers stacked three high, on either side of the road,” Castillo recalled. “While traveling by this route it was common to have our trucks stoned by juveniles. Another route was a short ride from our base, usually an uneventful one, past a few store fronts and a car dealership.

“But my favorite ride required us to pass from one end of the city’s center to the other. When traveling this route, we always left base hours before the sun began peeking over the mountaintops. It was during my first such trip that I first caught a glimpse of the king’s old palace. In the barely visible light of early dawn sat the huge, imposing struc-ture. Had one of my colleagues not pointed it out, it would have been easy to miss in the darkness. Its windows were broken and its walls displayed the pock marks made from numerous assaults, presumably from rocket

Feds Bolster Educational Support for Veterans

On April 27, 2012, President Barack Obama signed Executive Order 13607, Establishing Principles of Excellence for Educational Institutions Serving Service Members, Veterans, Spouses, and Other Family Members. The purpose of this legislation is to ensure that educational benefits programs for veterans are providing the necessary information, support, and protections. These principles were developed to strengthen oversight, enforcement, and accountability of educational programs so veterans can make informed decisions concerning educational benefits.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs strongly encouraged institutions to commit to the Principles of Excellence as a way to publicly recognize the importance of transparency, as well as provide students with appropriate information.

On June 19, Dr. Norma Betz, OCC Executive Director of Admissions and Financial Aid – whose responsibilities include veterans’ educational benefits – contacted the Veterans Affairs Department confirming OCC’s compliance with the Executive Order’s Principles of Excellence. She also informed the Department that OCC’s implementation actions will be posted on the College website, as requested.

FeatureCASTILLO, continued from page 7

“ In much the same way that Superstorm Sandy offered a glimpse into how reliant we all are on things such as water, heat, and power, I think my Afghanistan experience can help to establish a point of reference from which we appreciate what we have and continue to seek to make things better.”

propelled grenades. It was a huge structure that bore wounds made by its own people – the different warring Afghan factions who, after the Russian occupation, fought each other for the capital.

"As we passed it in the dark, it sat as if brooding from so many years of war, tired of so many years of constant struggle and neglect. Despite its deterioration, it was easy to imagine it in more grand times as a seat

of government power; but now it just sat waiting for the light of the new day, bearing the marks of war as if wounded, so tired and exhausted after over two decades of conflict and neglect.”

He continued, “Traveling only a few miles outside of the capital, the frenetic tempo seemed to slow to a gentler pace. The streets, which were no longer walled with crammed buildings, gave way to open fields. Crops which closely hugged the ground and neatly arrayed in rows were clearly tended to with some care. In the distance, beyond

the long rows of green vegetation, there stood rugged mountains. These were the foothills of the Hindu Kush mountain range.

“The further from the city we traveled, the more impoverished the living condi-tions became – no electricity, with the only sources of water coming from community wells. Daily, children carried jugs of water, which they had hand pumped from the wells, up steep paths and roadways to their homes. For transportation, more reliance was placed upon carts drawn by horses and donkeys. Also more prominent in the suburban and rural areas were the number of traditional full burkas worn by women. This signified the more conservative makeup of those living in these areas.”

Castillo would have liked to see more of the country, but travel was limited to official business only, so he was restricted to activities on base. He worked out in the gym, played racquetball – “I think I hold the record for hitting the most people with the ball” – and interacted with people of vastly different cultures.

“I became less xenophobic,” Castillo remarked. He also developed a better under-standing of “how extremists can hijack an entire religion,” became more aware of the struggles women endure in much of the Middle East, and returned to the U.S. with an enhanced gratefulness for the general level of security in our country.

(clockwise l. to r., from top) Rush Hour – A man with his children sit in a cart during typical Afghani gridlock. What’s a Stick? – Castillo gets ready for a driving instruction class. In the Eyes of a Child – Castillo poses with the son of an Afghani police officer. Afghani Precinct – Exterior of one of several local police departments. The Main Gate – Castillo checks the credentials of a local resident.


Reorganized OCC Financial Aid Department Includes Veterans Services

Over the past 45 years OCC has served its military veterans, active duty mem-bers, and their families. The Financial Aid Department has been recently reorganized to include all Veterans Services. As a result, the College has an increased ability to serve the growing number of veterans and their families seeking a college education and offers free confidential assistance with specific guidance and support tailored to the needs of service personnel.

With the ability to provide a more inclu-sive, comprehensive service, the College has the capability to assist our veterans in making the most of their military training with OCC’s flexible transfer polices that can turn military training into college credit.

Located in Suite 129, on the first floor of the Administration Building (#9), the Veterans Services staff is committed to guiding veterans, active duty members, and their families through the process of

accessing their well-deserved educational benefits.

Our veterans are our students, our faculty, and our staff! For more information, visit www.ocean.edu/veterans.

“It was, without a doubt, a great opportunity,” Castillo summarized of his time in Afghanistan. “The most important thing I’ve gained from the experience is a greater appreciation for all we have here at home – family, friends, and our way of life.”

Meanwhile, back in his classroom, said Castillo, “The experience has proven useful in contrasting and comparing our own living conditions with those that are, literally, half a world away.”

In much the same way that Superstorm Sandy offered a glimpse into existing without a certain infrastruc-ture – according many students an understand-ing of how reliant we all are on things such as water, heat, and power – “I think my Afghanistan experience can help to establish a point of reference from which we appreciate what we have and continue to seek to make things better.”

Photos provided by Ben Castillo


Security Detail on Campus GrowsJuliet Kaszas-Hoch, Writer

On January 17, 2012, Governor Chris Christie signed a new State law, P.L. 2011, c. 214, which directs each New Jersey institution of higher education to develop, adopt, and coordi-nate an emergency operations plan to ensure the continuity of essential functions under any and all circumstances. In concert with the law, over the past two years, the NJ Presidents’ Council’s Campus Safety and Security Committee deployed a self-inspection and peer review survey that includes those aspects of campus security addressed in the Governor’s Campus Security Task Force of 2007, the Federal Clery Act, and the Federal Higher Education Authorization Act.

In order to be in compliance with the campus security law, the OCC Board of Trustees formally adopted the College’s Emergency Operations Plan. The OCC Emergency Operations Plan, previously referred to as the College’s Emergency Procedures Manual, originally developed in November 2003 has been routinely updated over the past nine years. Also required by the Campus Safety and Security Committee is certification that the College has completed its annual self-assessment survey. OCC’s self-assessment survey was completed on February 24, 2012.

As stated in a Campus Safety and Security Report from October 2012, “The OCC Security Department coordinates the College’s Emer-gency Operation Plan, and has a comprehensive Emergency Response Plan to address weather, technological, or accidental emergencies. OCC Security develops, reviews, and revises procedures regarding emergency preparedness and response including evacuation and shelter-in-place protocols.

“The College Emergency Operation Plan has specific procedures to manage responses to different types of emergencies. First responders to an emergency on campus are usually members of the OCC Security Department and the Toms River Police Department. Depending on the nature of the event, other state or federal emergency response agencies could also respond to help manage the event.

“If an emergency occurs on or near the campus that poses a potential threat to the health or safety of the College community, executive staff members and members of the OCC Security Department meet as part of the crisis response team. OCC Security officials are trained in crisis response and have authority to take immediate action to address and stabilize an event until the arrival of local emergency response services.”

Emergency actions may include: deployment of additional campus security officers; increase to security patrols of the campus; request

for law enforcement officers; request for assistance from local, county, or state emergency management officials; closure of roads and entrances to the campus; securing of campus buildings; and evacuation of buildings or initiation of shelter-in-place procedures.

Copies of the Emergency Operation Plan were provided to the Toms River Police Department and Office of Emergency Management, and the Ocean County Office of Emergency Management. As Robert Kumpf, Director of Security, explained, OCC had to make sure the plan was disseminated to these entities, as well as to the state.

In fact, he added, the College’s Security Department communicates often with the local police force. “That’s a partnership that’s really important.”

The emergency plan, he noted, is “fluid” because of periodic addi-tions and changes due to circumstances such as new buildings and system upgrades. For example, “we’re always expanding our cameras as the campus grows,” and, in addition, the number of defibrillators on campus, currently 21, continues to increase, as does the number of staff members trained to use them.

Kumpf also pointed out that the state police were on campus in May for response team drills. “It was a tremendous success,” he remarked. “It’s always great to have law enforcement here.”

OCC’s Security Department – which employs 12 full-time officers and five part-time and reservist members – has embarked on a signifi-cant campaign on campus so that individuals, both students and staff, know how, and to whom, to report suspicious incidents and crimes.

OCC’s “campus security authorities,” meanwhile, include dozens of members of the College community, including coaches and assistant coaches, trained to ensure any incidents similar to what happened at Penn State are reported. That training, said Kumpf, will likely be expanded.

“We’re very appreciative of the cooperation from students, faculty, and staff,” Kumpf noted. “It’s a partnership.”

For more information, visit www.ocean.edu/campus/security/sub_security_main.htm

CAMPUS SAFETY AND SECURITY REPORTOctober 2012

www.ocean.edu

Focus On: Hurricane Sandy


Special Report

Hurricane Sandy Changes Coastal CommunitiesKaren Walzer, BBP Program Outreach Coordinator

Hurricane Sandy was a devastating storm that has drastically changed

our coastal communities. The extensive property damage from the hurricane is still being assessed. The physical and emotional toll from the storm is immense, with many people losing their homes and businesses. Infrastructure, including roads, power transmission lines, natural gas pipelines, and water mains, were destroyed in some com-munities and must be replaced. Fortunately, advance warnings and mandatory evacuations minimized loss of life from Sandy.

Since the storm, the first priority of the more than 30 organizations and agencies that comprise the Barnegat Bay Partnership (BBP) has been the health, safety, and welfare of the members of the communities affected by Sandy. Keeping water supply and wastewater systems safely operating, managing the removal of the massive amount of debris from the storm, monitoring water quality in the bay and ocean after the storm, informing the public about fishing advisories and shellfish closures, stabilizing severely eroded areas, such as the breach in Mantoloking, and

assessing hazards to navigation in the bay and inlets, are just some of the vital tasks performed by our partners in the aftermath of the storm.

As a Lieutenant with the Berkeley Emer-gency Response Team – Station 85, Martha Maxwell-Doyle, BBP’s Project Coordinator, responded to multiple calls for assistance with hazardous materials, both during and after the storm. Sandy’s massive storm surge carried not only debris, but also oil and other hazardous materials into our waterways. One of the important tasks for the future is examin-ing ways to improve how we store and secure these materials in our coastal communities.

In the months ahead, the partners will work to assess Sandy’s impacts on the Barnegat Bay’s natural resources and habitats, including its fish, wildlife, eelgrass beds, sediments, and wetlands. The BBP will also play an important role in providing information to property owners, builders, planners, municipal and county officials, and others about how to rebuild responsibly for safer communities and a healthier bay.

According to a study prepared for the BBP by the University of Delaware, the Barnegat Bay watershed is an economic

engine contributing over $4 billion each year to the New Jersey economy. The report, entitled “Economic Value of the Barnegat Bay Watershed,” makes the connection between a healthy Barnegat Bay and a healthy economy and provides an economic basis for investing in the future of the bay and its watershed.

In the aftermath of Sandy, everyone wanted to act quickly to begin the long pro-cess of recovery of our coastal communities and the Shore’s thriving economy. In light of the staggering economic values reported in the study, a significant focus on sound coastal planning, including storm mitigation to prevent or at least minimize similar damage in the event of another disaster, will be critical for the region’s long-term economic recovery.

For more information about the BBP’s Hurricane Sandy recovery efforts, visit the BBP website at http://bbp.ocean.edu, or call 732-255-0472. The Barnegat Bay Partner-ship is one of 28 National Estuary Programs dedicated to improving the health of nationally significant estuaries. The program is sponsored by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders, and Ocean County College.

Image of the northern hemisphere on October 28, 2012 as Hurricane Sandy approached the coast of New Jersey. Courtesy nasa.gov.


Volunteers Work toward “Sandy” ReliefRoseAnn D’Urso, Manager of Promotional Programming

The disastrous effects of Hurricane Sandy on October 29 are far reaching and impact all who live or work in Ocean County. Many Ocean County College students, faculty, and staff have found themselves facing issues they never before imagined.

Despite being faced with adversity, Ocean County College’s “family” pulled together to help each other and the community following Hurricane Sandy. Immediately after recogniz-ing the seriousness of the situation, College members, without delay, began reaching out electronically from their homes to check on colleagues, offer assistance, and organize relief efforts.

The following individuals deserve recognition for their hard work, initiative, volunteerism, and deep commitment in difficult circumstances. Although not inclusive, this list highlights those employees, and students, whose outstanding efforts went above and beyond.

Losing his apartment on the barrier island did not interrupt Facilities Consultant Matthew Kennedy’s work at OCC. He directed the Facilities operation throughout the crisis by preparing the campus for the storm, monitoring conditions during the power outage, communicating with management, and supervising clean-up after the storm. He spent several nights on campus and then relocated to a hotel. Robert Kumpf,

Director of College Security, lost his home but treated his work at the College as a priority, coming in to work immediately after the storm hit in order to make certain that the Security department was running at full-speed. Lenny Mannino, Preventive Maintenance Mechanic, and Joe Heumiller, General Maintenance Mechanic, took leadership roles in the Facilities operation and ensured the safety of their coworkers.

As one of just five EMT’s at the Barnegat Light Firehouse on Long Beach Island, Marc Labella, Associate Professor of Science, per-formed rescues during the height of the storm; provided meals, first aid, and assistance to emergency personnel; and worked with police and military personnel to open the roadway off the Island.

Before and after the storm hit, several employees worked from their homes to implement the College’s initial outreach efforts to employees and students. Those working in “command central” included Sara Winchester, Vice President of Finance; Leslie Cohen, Assistant Vice President of Human Resources; Jan Kirsten, Executive Director of College Relations; Carol Kaunitz, Director of Auxiliary Services; Karen Papakonstantinou, Director of Accounting; and Ann Feneis, Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Finance. In addition, Kirsten along with Maureen Conlon, Manager of Web Services, posted electronic messages during the College’s closing to keep students and staff informed of College operations and relief efforts.

After the storm, Dr. Jon H. Larson, OCC President, received an email f r o m D i a n e B a r n i c l e , a resident of Point Pleasant whose house was flooded by the storm. In her email, she described how two OCC students, Zack Silk and Daniel DiMaria, removed the heavy, water-soaked items from her home and then punched holes in the sheet-rock to aid in drying out the house. Although storm victims themselves, Silk and DiMaria nevertheless assisted their neighbor.

During several weeks after the storm hit, countless other College volunteers continued to assist their neighbors. Scott Bruinooge, Coordinator of Publications, worked to clean out houses, removing debris and damaged furniture and appliances. Yvonne Doval, Assistant Director of Education Opportunity Fund, who herself was displaced when her home was severally damaged, volunteered her time with Samaritan’s Purse and The Church of Grace and Peace, cleaning out homes and

Special Report

Hurricane-Sandy related photos for this issue were provided by:

Yvonne Doval, Richard Higgins, Joanne Padrone, AJ Trump, and Karen Walzer


preparing clothing, personal care, and food pack-ages. Dr. Larson helped out by opening up his home to a student who needed a place to live.

Not only did O CC employees

volunteer their time to help their friends and neigh-bors, but they also chipped in to help the College get

“back on its feet.” In order to do just that, Mark Bowcock, Buyer/Compliance Agent, contacted vendors, arranged for emergency procurements, and assisted Facilities person-nel. Elsewhere on campus, three key indi-viduals ensured the continued operation of Information Technology systems and servers including Hatem Akl, Executive Director of Information Technology; Kirk Humphreys, Network Systems Administrator; and Rick Goshey, Technical Director.

Although the College was closed, it was important that certain daily operations con-tinued. Mary Lancaster, Director of Financial Reporting; Sabreena Joynes, Assistant

Director of Payroll; Kathy Bukowinski, Senior Confidential Payroll Technician; Ruby Nancoo, Confidential Payroll Technician; and Siu Lee Gong, Confidential Payroll Techni-cian, worked to issue the payroll on time.

The College continued to help students who were in need of financial assistance. Lisa Hussain, Accounts Receivable Technician, processed student refunds. Peter Eliseev, Programmer Analyst, and Kerry McEachen, Systems Administrator, processed financial aid student refunds. Dr. Norma Betz, Direc-tor of Admissions and Financial Aid, provided financial aid information to students and volunteered at the Southern Education Cen-ter. Deanne Gatta-Salter, Senior Financial Aid Specialist, mobilized student workers to assist with student relief efforts and ensured that every enrolled Veteran student received a phone call of welcome and concern.

With the College’s mission of education, it was imperative that a plan was in place to make the remainder of the fall semester run smoothly. Dr. Jianping Wang, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and the academic administrators, ensured the academic integrity of the semester. Academic Deans, including Dr. Yehia Elmogahzy, School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology; Dr. Maysa Hayward, e-Learning and Adjunct Faculty; Bradford Young, School of Social Science and Human Services; Tracie Walsh, School of Nursing; Dr. Angel Camilo, Adjunct Faculty; and Dr. Henry Jackson, School of Language and the Arts, kept up daily contact with faculty members while the College was closed and then visited classrooms to meet with faculty and students when the College reopened. Additionally, Dr. Carolyn Lafferty, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs; Dr. Christine Kephart, Writing Center/Tutoring Resources; and Wendy Giarratana, Administrative Assistant, Business Studies, visited classrooms to welcome students and faculty back on campus and to distribute critical recovery information.

As the College returned to full operations, staff kept an eye on the needs of community members during the Thanksgiving holiday. Ilene Cohen, Executive Director of Athletics and Judicial Affairs; Jennifer Fazio, Director of Student Life; and Alison Noone, Coordina-tor of Student Volunteerism, assisted Jason Russo, Executive Chef at the Ramada Inn in Lakewood, for a Thanksgiving Day Dinner, held in OCC’s College Center, for community members affected by Hurricane Sandy.

Moving forward, Dr. James McGinty, Executive Vice President, serves as OCC’s representative on a county-wide Long-Term Recovery Committee established by the Ocean County Department of Human Services. The committee is the centralized point at which all funders, nonprofit agencies, faith-based communities, and volunteer groups discuss needs and plans for a formalized and unified effort.

Clean up and community needs will persist well into the future. It is clear that College employees will continue to offer their time and resources to help rebuild the Jersey Shore. All of the many volunteers from Ocean County College represented the College well and deserve recognition for their work. Thank you!

Alumni Spotlight

Michael Palmerson, Class of 2012Joanne Padrone, Director of Resource Development

Toms River resident Michael Palmerson, OCC ’12, was selected as this year’s Student/Alumni Representative on the Ocean

County College Board of Trustees. The Board provides leadership and develops policy for the College.

Palmerson graduated from Toms River High School East in 2010. He decided to attend OCC after his mother gave him an ultimatum, either go to OCC or get a “real world job.” When asked if he made the right choice, Palmerson replied, “Absolutely, 110%! It turned out to be more than I ever anticipated and I never would have guessed I could have gotten my four-year experience at my local community college.”

A third generation OCC alumn, Palmerson was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, graduated cum laude, and volun-teered his time each year to be Santa at the organization’s “Breakfast with Santa.” Palmerson is currently a junior at Kean-Ocean and said that “there was no real change transition to Kean. Time at OCC helped me prepare for it.”

When asked which professor had the most profound effect on him, Palmerson stated, “Dr. Al Longo,” adding “taking

‘Introduction to Teaching’ and the 30-hour observation component was fun. A good career should be fun.” Palmerson’s mother and aunt are teachers and he said, “I always considered teaching.”

When asked how he became this year’s Student/Alumni Repre-sentative for the OCC Board of Trustees Palmerson commented, “I received a call from Allison Noone from the Office of Student Life

and she asked me if I would be interested in it. I thought it was a great opportunity and I said ‘why not?’ ”

In July, Palmerson met with Dr. Jon H. Larson, OCC President, where he learned first-hand about the Board. Palmerson was inducted at the September 2012 Board meeting. When asked what he hopes to provide in this role he replied, “a fresh student perspective.” He also said that he “is receiving a great experience in how to lead people and make some big decisions.”

After graduation, Palmerson is planning on getting a “real world job.” “I really want to become a teacher in a middle or high school,” he said.

Good luck, Michael!

In addition to serving this year as the student/alumni representative on the OCC Board of Trustees, Palmerson has also served as PTK's Santa [shown here with fellow North Pole volunteers Danielle Wittman (l.) and Katie Iveson (r.)].


THE RANDOM 10...is a set of questions for the alumn interviewed in each issue’s “Alumni Spotlight.” Here is Michael Palmerson's “Random Ten.”

WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE OCCASION IN YOUR LIFE?Becoming an Eagle Scout

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM VACATION?Going to England

I HAVE ALWAYS WANTED TOSkydive

IF YOU COULD BE ANY CHARACTER IN FICTION, WHO WOULD YOU BE?Indiana Jones

IF YOU COULD CHANGE PLACES FOR A WEEK WITH ANY OTHER PERSON – LIVING OR DECEASED, FAMOUS OR NOT, REAL OR FICTIONAL – WHO WOULD IT BE?President Obama

IF HOLLYWOOD MADE A MOVIE ABOUT YOUR LIFE, WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE PLAY THE LEAD ROLE?Seth Rogen

DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN ONE WORD?LUCKY

WHAT ESSENTIAL ITEMS WOULD YOU BRING ON A ROAD TRIP?Music, music, music; money; and a friend

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?Our Endangered Values by President Jimmy Carter

IF YOU WON $20 MILLION IN THE LOTTERY, WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH THE MONEY?Set myself up financially and then give the rest to charity

Earn Credits toward your bachelor’s or master’s degree on the OCC campus with the Ocean

County College/Kean University degree program. Kean University and Ocean County College have established a partnership that enables area residents to complete upper division courses required for certain Kean University undergraduate degree programs and specific graduate programs on the campus of OCC.

BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS Accounting Biology Biology, Teacher Certification* Computer Science, Information Systems Criminal Justice Elementary Education* English, Standard Option English, Teacher Certification* Finance Graphic Design History History, Teacher Certification* Management Marketing Nursing Phys Ed and Health K-12 Teaching Psychology Public Administration Sociology Special Education (Teacher Dual Certification

Options Available in Special Ed, K-5, and 5-8 Subjects. For details visit www.ocean.edu/academics/kean.

GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS Counselor Education

(State certification for School Counseling) Educational Leadership

(State certification for Supervisor and Principal) Nursing

(Clinical Management or School Nursing) Public Administration

(Standard or Nonprofit Management option) Business Administration

(Executive MBA program)

INFORMATION 732.255.0356 • [email protected].


Share news about your career, education, and family!

ELAINE MARIE BIDDULPH ’08 recently won Brookdale Community College’s Scroll and Pen Book-store Notebook Logo Redesign Contest. She has been pursuing

double degrees for Digital Animation and 3-D Design and Media Studies, while joining art associations and museums, exhibits, con-tests, and networking events throughout Ocean and Monmouth counties. Her photograph, Purple Haze, was accepted and displayed in Illuminated at the Art Alliance of Monmouth County in Red Bank, NJ. This photograph was published in OCC's Seascape 2010 and has been included in numerous art shows around the state. Two of her charcoal drawings were included in Cathedral: Building the Figure at Brookdale in the Center for Visual Arts at Brookdale Community College. This is her 33rd show to date since she began exhibiting in 2010.

JULLIAN CANTOR ’12 graduated with an A.S. in business and is employed as a legal secretary for an estate planning and administration attorney. Julian volunteers at

OCC’s Arts & Community Center Theater and the Novins Planetarium.

JAVE GALT-MILLER ’05 went on to gradu-ate from Rider University in 2007, majoring in communica-tions. Afterwards, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a film

career. He attended graduate school at the AFI Conservatory and is currently working in post-production for major cable networks and is planning to direct his first feature film.

AMBER LEE GESSLEIN ’08 completed her master’s degree in political science from Kean University in Union. Amber is a Brick Township Committeewoman

(2010-2014), a member of the Young Demo-crats (2010 to present), and recently finished an Internship at the NJ Democratic State Committee in Trenton.

ELIJAH KIRBY ’09 graduated with a 4.0 and received the William T. Hiering Scholarship. He went to Kean-Ocean and graduated in 2011 summa cum laude. He

is attending law school at the University of Minnesota.

ANTHONY MELILLO ’10 recently gradu-ated from Kean-Ocean with a 4.0 and a bachelor’s degree in history. He was inducted into Kappa Delta Pi, the international

honor society for education, and Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective honor society. Anthony is pursuing a Kean-Ocean elementary K-5 teaching certificate. He is President of the Kean-Ocean Education Club and Campus Liaison to Kappa Delta Pi.

SARAH SALTER ’10 is a senior at Kean University where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in mathemat-ical science. This past summer, she was awarded a full scholar-

ship to study at the University of Iowa and perform research for its Biostatistics Department. She also presented at an Ivy League symposium hosted by the University of Pennsylvania. Sarah noted that “without the guidance of my amazing mentors in the OCC Mathematics Department, I would have never realized my passion for mathematical research.” Next year, she hopes to pursue a doctoral degree in biostatistics or mathematics so she can make research a part of her career.

Looking to save money?! Then check out our newest Rewards Partners before you shop, dine, or travel. For alumni and Academy for Lifelong Learning Rewards card holders, there’s plenty of savings to be found.

As a leader in the community, OCC collaborates with Ocean County businesses to help them increase revenue… and help you save money! The best part is that participa-tion for businesses, alumni, and Academy members, is FREE! All alumni and Academy members receive a FREE membership card. Vendors and businesses receive a FREE listing on OCC’s Rewards Program web page. So it’s a win-win for everyone!

Make sure you visit our website (www.ocean.edu/alumni/rewards) often to view the full listing of participating businesses… new members come on board weekly. Just pre sent your card or keychain tag at participating vendors to receive your discount. Don’t forget to look for our Rewards Program window decals.

If you have any comments or would like to see one of your favorite businesses become a partner, call Joanne Padrone, Director of Resource Development, at 732-255-0400, ext. 2065 or email her at [email protected].

Save Money with Free Rewards Membership!

Membership_Rewards_Window_Cling.indd 1 1/8/2010 4:33:50 PM

Alumni on the Move


WE’RE PROUD OF OUR ALUMNILet Us Know What You’re Doing!

Email us your career moves, promotions, relocations, marriages, births, and other information you’d like to share with your fellow alumni. We’d also like to publish recent pictures, so please feel free to submit a digital photo. Email your submission to [email protected] with the Subject line titled “Alumni on the Move.”

Post a message on our Facebook page and you may get published in our next edition of Ocean Views!

Help us keep our database current. Update your name, address, phone, email, and career information. Contact Joanne Padrone, Director of Resource Development, at 732-255-0400, ext. 2949, or email [email protected].


spotlight on Future alumna: Student Named “Miss NJ Collegiate America”

S A M A N T H A M A Z Z A was crowned Miss New Jersey Collegiate America 2013 on Sunday, August 5 at the Lancaster Marriott in Lancaster, PA. Mazza will represent New Jersey

at the National Miss Collegiate America Pageant in July 2013 in Orlando, FL.

A graduate of Toms River High School East, Mazza is currently pursuing an associate degree in liberal arts at OCC. After graduating from OCC, she plans to attend Kean University and major in communications.

Mazza volunteers for Toys for Tots, Teens for Jeans, and the NJ Miss Amazing Pageant (dedicated to girls with special needs), among others. Mazza is developing her own program called I.C.I.N.G. (Instilling Confidence in a New Generation), which focuses on encouraging and instilling confidence in girls, teens, and young women.

Reaching for the STARSIn May 2012, a survey went out to all NJ STARS graduates.

Many of the responses indicated an interest in attending a special STARS reunion – more information will be forthcoming. In addition, a number of STAR alumni are interested in mentoring – thank you! If you are an OCC graduate from the NJ STARS program, send us your professional and personal updates, or if you didn’t have an opportunity to complete the survey, contact Joanne Padrone, Director of Resource Development, at [email protected].

JENNIFER NELSON ’10 graduated from Monmouth University in 2012 with a con-centration in molecular cell physiology and minors in chemistry and health study. While at Monmouth she was the Monmouth Female Athlete of the Year along with many athletic achievements.

MATT REID ’10 graduated from Western Michigan University with a B.A. in sociology and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in sociology. He has been involved with the Ocean County Human Relations Commission, Ocean County Sierra Club as Publicity Chair, and the ACLU of New Jersey.

KRISTINA SAKERS ’10 received a B.A. in biological sciences from Rutgers University. She was a member of the Tau Sigma Honor Society, Delta Epsilon lota Honor Society, and took first place in the cell/molecular biology WPUNS research symposium. Kristina was a grant recipient at Rutgers and after conducting her independent project in developmental neurobiology at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, she was offered a position at Yale University to continue research in neurobiology.

Tip of the Hat Acknowledging recent accomplishments of OCC faculty and staff

The Department of English & Literature has much to be proud of. Judith Angona, Professor; Dr. Sandra Brown, Professor; Lynn Kraemer-Siracusa, Instructor; and Heidi Sheridan, Instructor, led the opening faculty panel presentation “Down with the Lecture! / Long Live the Lecture!” at the Two Year College Association (TYCA) 47th Annual Conference. Their presentation debated the benefits and drawbacks of the lecture vs. experiential learning in today’s global classroom, exploring protocols that include poetry and playwriting performances to further student engagement; team learning to over-come cultural obstacles to teacher-student dialogue; multidisciplinary group presentations to foster individual development of ideas; and short PowerPoint lectures to enhance student comprehension. Louise Silverman, Adjunct Instructor, served as Session Chair. Additionally, Angona is Northeast Representative for TYCA National and Siracusa is TYCA’s NJ State Representative.

RoseAnn D’Urso, Manager of Promotional Programming, par-ticipated in a Media & Spokesperson Training Session at the Ocean County Health Department (OCHD). “Press Conferences during Public Health Events,” was sponsored by the NJ Department of Health & Senior Services (NJDHSS), and was part of the State’s mandatory professional development training. The purpose of the event was to provide an overview of risk communication and strategies, describe communication challenges for the spokesperson during a crisis, and to illustrate risk communication skills during a press conference. At the end of the program, Tom Slater, Public Health Infrastructure, Laboratories, and Emergency Response, NJDHSS, discussed the possibility of holding the next health department training program at OCC. Discussions are underway for OCC to become part of a pilot program, working with the OCHD, Georgian Court University, and possibly Community Medical Center. Slater and D’Urso are also looking into working with the NJ Office of Emergency Management to hold a training program for OCC’s Security, Health Services, and College Relations departments.

Peter Hartney, Adjunct Instructor of Social Sciences, participated in the Ocean County Health Department’s (OCHD)

Faith-Based Coalition workshop; his presentation was entitled “Issues Facing Congregations Today.” Hartney also gave the closing remarks at the Ocean County National Alliance for Mental Illness Legislative Breakfast and was the Chairman of the Ocean County Mental Health Board in the OCHD’s Comprehensive Community Health Needs Survey workshop. In addition, he represented the Barnegat Bay Blitz Day in a Comcast taping of the NJ DEP’s “Eye on Ocean County.”

Kathleen M. Howe, Adjunct Professor of English & Literature, has presented a paper on “The Plains Native American Indians” to a number of community-based organizations. She was awarded a National Endowment for the Humanities grant in 2010 to study the contributions and history of the Pawnee, Ponca, and Omaha tribes.

David Lansing, Adjunct Instructor of History, presented two lec-tures at the Manchester Branch of the Ocean County Library. “The Modern American Government: How Would the Founding Fathers Feel” had participants speculate on whether the Founding Fathers would have approved of the United States political system in the 21st Century. “Politics and The Media: How Election Results are Influenced by the Press” gave attendees the opportunity to predict the outcome of the 2012 Presidential Race based on the campaign.

Dr. Neil J. Lavender, Professor of Social Sciences, coauthored Impossible to Please: “How to Deal with Perfectionist Coworkers, Controlling Spouses, and Other Incredibly Critical People” (New Harbinger Publications, Inc.). The book features strategies that are effective when conversing with critical people and explains how readers can respond to unfair blame, avoid stressful arguments, vicious insults and attacks, and passive-aggressive behavior without becoming angry or overly defensive. By setting boundaries, improving communication, and asserting themselves, readers learn to deal with the “impossible to please” in romantic relationships, friendships, family, and at work. The book is available in printed, Kindle, and Nook editions at www.Amazon.com and www.BarnesandNoble.com.

Dr. Mary Morley, Director of Institutional Research, was named, along with her fellow research team members, as a co- inventor of a computer-based testing software program. The group’s computer-based


test item generation was awarded a patent by the United States Patent Office. While working for Educational Testing Service, Dr. Morley and eight team members worked on the project beginning in 1996. The pat-ent was filed in 2000 and was subsequently granted on June 19, 2012. The patent was assigned to the Educational Testing Service, Princeton, NJ. Dr. Morley explained that there was a need to make standardized test development more efficient. The new software algorithmically generates test questions. Its unique capability is to keep the integrity of the grammar and mathematics throughout an evolving storyline – in short, it uses common sense. “It is great to be part of a patent,” she said, “I was never expecting this at this point … after so many years.”

Dr. William Rickert, Professor of Mathematics, was recognized for his 35 years as an advisor to OCC’s Tau Iota Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. The PTK Center for Excellence, located in Jackson, Mississippi, expressed its sincere appreciation to Dr. Rickert for his service and time as an advisor. This past year, Tau Iota was awarded the Five-Star Chapter Development Plan, which recognizes outstanding achieve-ment in the four hallmarks of PTK: Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship. Most recently, on the international level, Tau Iota received Honors in Action-Distinguished Issue Award for outstand-ing scholarly work in the area of Government and Public Policy. The chapter has evolved into a strong organization as a result of the quality of leadership and commitment of all its advisors. Also serving as PTK advisors are Carolyn Showalter, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, Robin Weitz, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, Dr. Nidhal Marashi, Assistant Professor of Science, and Dr. Jennifer Dellner, Associate Professor of English and Literature.

Richard Trimble, Assistant Professor of Humanities, presented “NJ in the Civil War” to the Union Landing Historical Society in Brielle and the Lacey Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter. He also spoke to the Deal Historical Society about his book of Civil War letters Brothers ‘til Death. Elsewhere, he spoke to the Lacey Historical Society on “NJ & Ocean County in the American Revolution.” Additionally, Trimble recently published, the book, I Got A Million of ‘Em: A History Teacher’s Guide to Classroom Humor (PublishAmerica, Frederick, MD).

Dr. Jianping Wang is the new Vice President of Academic Affairs. Dr. Wang brings nearly two decades of progressive executive-level leadership and management experience in community college adminis-tration to her position at OCC. Dr. Wang earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Hangzhou University and a master’s in English literature from Beijing University, both in China. She then went on to receive a master’s in education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and a doctorate in education from Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, California. Over the years, Dr. Wang taught at Beijing University, Beijing Institute of Technology, Harvard Graduate School of Education, and SUNY Westchester Community College (WCC). She also served as the Division Dean of Arts and Humanities and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at WCC. Among her many recog-nitions, Dr. Wang received the Dynamic Achiever in Education Award from the Organization of Chinese Americans and was an American Association of Community Colleges Kellogg Research Fellow. She has also served on or supported numerous national, state, and community associations, including the National Asian Pacific Islander Council, the Association of American Community Colleges Commission on Global Education, and the Alliance for Children Foundation.

ObituariesLoretta Kazawic, mother of Alison Irwin (Student Life), passed away on October 1, 2012, after a ten-year battle with ALS. Ms. Kazawic previously worked in the OCC Bookstore for 14 years before her retirement.

Michael Clemente (Facilities) passed away on August 22, 2012.

Ms. Kazawic and Mr. Clemente will be missed by family, friends, and the OCC community.



Foundation's "Scholarship Celebration" A Huge Success

The OCC Foundation netted nearly $200,000 at its “Come Fly with Me” Scholarship Celebration on September 8. The annual

event was held on OCC’s Main Campus. Proceeds will support the continuing development of the OCC Foundation’s scholarship fund.

This year, the OCC Foundation honored Gary and Amy Lotano (Toms River) as “Humanitarians of the Year” for their outstanding service to and involvement in the community and business life of Ocean County.

A builder/developer for over 29 years, Gary has helped to enhance Toms River as well as Ocean County, and is committed to support-ing businesses that will advance the economy. Gary has served the community in a variety of leadership positions including the Toms River-Ocean County Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Toms River Revitalization Committee, the Saint Barnabas Health Care System Board, and the Community Medical Center Board.

As the co-founder and curator of the Colonel Charles Waterhouse Historical Museum, Amy had the opportunity to make the work of her father – the first and only artist-in-residence of the United States Marine Corps – accessible to the general public. She is a Board Member of the Hope Center, and has served on the Ocean First Foundation Board since its inception in 1996.

The event’s major sponsor was Investors Bank. “Sincere appreciation

is expressed to Investors Bank for its role in ensuring the success of our Scholarship Celebration. Thanks also go to the many donors and supporters of this year’s event,” said Sandy S. Broughton, Executive Director of the OCC Foundation.

With nearly 300 people in attendance, guests were entertained with live music provided by Fate. Food was prepared by Kessler’s Catering. The souvenir journal was made available via electronic format.

The capstone of the evening was a video presentation highlighting the lives and good works of honorees Gary and Amy Lotano. In addition, a live and silent auction raised over $27,000. Guests bid on an array of items including golf outings, sporting event tickets, vacations and entertainment packages, theatre tickets, collectibles, and gift certificates.

The Scholarship Celebration Chair was Harvey York, a member of the OCC Foundation Board of Trustees, and Noelle W. Lotano, daughter of Gary and Amy Lotano. David G. Paulus was the Auction Chair. Victoria J. Magliacane, Investors Bank, was the Ad Journal Chair. Keith A. Buscio is the OCC Foundation Chair.

The OCC Foundation is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to the growth and development of the College through scholarships, endowments, and capital and special projects.

OCC Foundation


New Foundation Trustee Named

Congratulations go out to Karen M. Symington, ’91, newly-elected member of the OCC Foundation Board of Trustees!

In August 2012, Ms. Symington and her brother Glenn J. Scherer visited the OCC main campus. Sandy Broughton, Executive Director of the Foundation, took the pair on a tour of the campus and the soon to be opened Gateway Building.

Ms. Symington graduated OCC with a degree in nursing while Mr. Scherer attended OCC in 1982 to study engineering.

Planned GivingPlanned gift, deferred gift, estate gift – these are different names for a way to manage

your affairs, plan for the future, and make a gift to the OCC Foundation. These are also the most common types of planned gifts. Please consult with your attorney or financial planner to discuss the best method for you and your family. Donations – Checks and credit card donations are the most frequent, and generally the

most convenient, means of giving.Wills or Trusts – Alumni and friends are encouraged to include provisions to benefit the

students of OCC through their estate plans. Real Estate and Tangible Property – If highly appreciated, offers a tax

benefit to donors when donated to the OCC Foundation.Income Producing Plans – Charitable gift annuities and

charitable remainder trusts.Life Insurance – Use a life insurance policy to make a

substantial gift. Charitable Lead Trusts – Support the students of OCC now

and still leave assets to your heirs.

For additional information about gifts to support OCC students, please contact Sandy S. Broughton, Executive Director, OCC Foundation, at 732.255.0400, ext. 2134.


Eight Inducted into Sailing Hall of Fame

Outstanding sailors who earned their sea legs on the Barnegat Bay had their

names entered into the Barnegat Bay Sailing Hall of Fame (BBSHF). Eight inductees were formally recognized at the BBSHF Induction Ceremony on October 6 on OCC’s main cam-pus. The BBSHF raised over $10,000 with proceeds supporting the OCC Sailing Program.

The evening began with a cocktail reception followed by the Induction Ceremony, which featured a video tribute of all the inductees. The OCC Gymnasium was transformed into a reception hall with Bay Yacht Club burgees hanging from the rafters. Close to 300 people were in attendance. The Master of Ceremonies and event Chairman was Ed Vienckowski.

The BBSHF promotes and preserves the area’s maritime heritage by recognizing indi-viduals whose accomplishments on the water and/or on shore have significantly enhanced Barnegat Bay’s maritime character and strengthened its status as a maritime center.

Organized in 2004, the BBSHF recognizes not only those sailors with ties to Barnegat Bay but those who have achieved excellence in the sport of sailing and/or contributed to the sport in some extraordinary manner.

“This was the fifth induction ceremony,” said Roy Wilkins, OCC Sailing Club Manager. “The Hall of Fame was a huge success!”

The 2012 inductees are:

John J. Applegate (Lavallette Yacht Club) began his stellar sailing career in 1953, at age 13.

Roger Brown (Metedeconk River Yacht Club) is a Certified Senior Race Officer

and was a judge at the 1996 Olympics.

Britton Chance, Jr. (Mantoloking Yacht Club) is a world-renowned yacht designer and sailor.

Paul Coward (Brant Beach Yacht Club) is a four-time national champ.

John P. Harkrader (Bay Head and Manasquan River Yacht Clubs) is known as being responsible for the revival of the M Scow class on Barnegat Bay.

Charles J. Horter (Island Heights Yacht Club) won an Olympic Bronze medal in the 1972 Munich Games.

Mark Schleckser (Shore Acres Yacht Club and Lavallette Yacht Club) has an exemplary record racing a variety of Hobie Catamarans.

Doug & Peg Galloway (posthumously) (Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club) were an inspiration to three generations of sailors and were early pioneers in the E Scow class.

Ocean News continued from page 5

Facilities Planning & Construction UpdateCombined Heating & Cooling Plant: The 1.2 MW CHP Plant is in final stages of testing and will go online in the near future. The plant will supply 80% of the electricity that OCC presently consumes. In addition to generating electricity using a natural gas fired internal combustion engine, the exhaust gas will be used to deliver hot and cold water to various campus buildings.

Kean/Ocean Gateway Building: Scheduled to open in spring 2013, the south end of the building will be occupied by OCC, while the north side is for Kean. Along with the new building, there are two new parking lots that will be opened by next summer, providing 1,000 spaces. The building includes classrooms, offices, and a 200-seat lecture hall.

College Center: The proposed 45,000-square-foot College Center will be located between the existing College Center and the Russell Building. The design stage is under completion and construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2013. The first floor will house a food service area, bookstore, security office, coffee kiosk, and dining hall. The second floor will comprise additional dining facilities, three conference rooms, a quiet lounge, a noisy lounge, six student club rooms, and administrative offices.

Athletics


Sports ShortsWomen’s Soccer Wins GSAC 5X

The Women's Soccer Team finished the sea-son with an overall record of 15-1-2.

The Women’s Soccer Team finished the fall season in second place in Region XIX and won their fifth consecutive Garden State Athletic Conference (GSAC) Championship. Led by Head Coach A.J. Trump and Assistant Coach Caitlin Toomey, the lady Vikings were ranked eighth in the nation. Soccer player Rachel Marino earned Region XIX Player-of-the-Year honors, and Brittany Sorrentino was named the Defensive MVP for her top-notch play in the Region XIX Tournament. A number of players also received All-Region and All-GSAC nods.

Mize Sets Scoring RecordsThis season Taylor Mize set the school record for career goals and career scoring (both

formerly held by Karen Geiger-Tr ump), and she was named national player of the week by the NJCAA. In her two-year Viking career, Mize scored

65 goals and had 15 assists. She led the nation in scoring in 2011, and this season was second overall with 32 goals and 6 assists.

Cross Country Team Blazes a Trail

Samantha Farina won the women's race at the National Championship race in Delhi, NY, earning her First Team All-America honors. Samantha also finished ahead of all other D-III runners at the Region XIX finals.

The Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Team continued its tradition of excellence this fall. The men finished the season as the Region XIX and GSAC Champions, then finished fourth at the NJCAA National Cham-pionships. Keith Charette finished ninth in the race, good for Second Team All-America Honors.

The women, meanwhile, finished the sea-son in second place in Region XIX and GSAC. At the NJCAA National Championships, the lady runners finished fourth. Samantha Farina took first place, earning her the title of Individual National Champion as well as First Team All-America honors.

Women’s Tennis 2nd in Region, 4th in Nation

2012 2nd Singles Flight National Champion, Annmarie Wodell.

The Women’s Tennis Team wrapped up the fall season as the second place team in Region XIX. The team, coached by Stan Friedman, went on to NJCAA Nationals at the Billy Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, New York, and finished an impres-sive fourth in the nation. Annmarie Wodell won the second singles flight, earning her an individual national championship and First Team All-America honors. Allison Dennis finished second in the third singles flight, while Emily Gaydos finished second in the fourth singles flight; both women earned Second Team All-America honors.

Men’s Soccer Team Region Champs

OCC Men's Soccer Team at NJCAA Nationals in Herkimer, NY

After winning the Region XIX Champi-onship this fall, Kevin Corris of the Men’s Soccer Team was named the Defensive MVP, while teammate Billy Bartels was named the Offensive MVP. The men then headed to the NJCAA National Tournament in Herkimer, New York, where they finished with one win and one loss. Benjamin Vergara was named to the All-Tournament Team for his excellent play. The team – coached by 2012 Region XIX Coach of the Year Kirk Pericciuoli, with the assistance of Sal Colino – finished the season ranked seventh in the nation.

Now open with the latest projection technology to bring you the universe in innovative and exciting new ways! Check out the latest schedule including presentations and laser shows at: www.ocean.edu/planet.htm

Our beautifully renovated Theatre and Black Box are host to wonderful campus events and visiting performers. Find the current schedule at:www.ocean.edu/arts.htm

Take classes for your career and job training, or discover our trips and personal enrichment activities! Review our course catalog online and register today:www.ocean.edu/cpe.htm

Join us on campus!

www.ocean.edu/cpe.htm

Shape Your Future

Fall 2012 • SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER

www.ocean.edu/cpe.htm

SPRING 2013 January-May

OCC ALUMNI BENEFITS

Ocean County College Alumni are entitled to a variety of benefits:

Free OCC Alumni Rewards Membership for discounts, specials and incentives

Complimentary subscription to Ocean Views, the OCC Alumni newsletter

Special events to connect with friends and the community

Discounts on day trips

Questions?Email us at

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OCEAN VIEWS - Ocean County College · first two weeks back to school. OCC employees and their family members experiencing stress due to Hurricane Sandy . were strongly encouraged