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Cougars earn comeback win; Women fall at Alfred State

By Andrew Crofts

Maurice Bailey scored a team-high 17 points and Stanley Peacock delivered seven points and nine rebounds in the second half to help the Genesee Community College men’s basketball team overcome an 11-point halftime deficit to defeat Alfred State College on the road on Thursday night, 75-73.

Genesee grabbed an early 7-1 lead in the first half but saw it quickly slip away as the home team responded. The Pioneers cashed in nine first half 3pt baskets and had as much as an 18 point lead during the first twenty-minutes. GCC was able to cut the Alfred State lead down to 11 at the half, and trailed 41-30 at the intermission.



(Terryl Coombs (blue) jumps for the opening tip-off on Thursday night at Alfred State)

 

The Cougars stepped up defensively to begin the second half and got back to within three after a 10-2 run to start the final period. Donte Meredith helped spark the run, scoring six of the first eight GCC points. Alfred State would increase their lead to as many as nine with 11:30 to play, but Genesee kept battling and fought back behind Bailey and Peacock. Peacock converted on two three-point plays and a 3pt basket from both Bailey and E.J. Blackwell got the Cougars to within one at 58-57. Bailey then gave GCC their first lead since the early going with a layup after the Cougars came up with a defensive stop. After a Pioneer 3pt basket, Bailey answered with a three of his own to put Genesee in front, 62-61.

Trailing 66-64 with under seven-minutes to play, Bailey again came up big for GCC with his fourth 3pt basket of the night to regain the lead for Genesee. The Pioneers continued to answer, and took a 71-69 lead with five-minutes left. After tying the game at 71 with a layup, Joe Gray gave Genesee their largest second half lead with a 3pt basket of his own to put the Cougars in front 74-71. Alfred state scored the final field goal of the game with 2:20 remaining to get to within one at 74-73, and both teams produced defensive stops throughout the final minutes to keep the game close.

Still trailing 74-73, Alfred State had possession of the ball with less than ten-seconds to play. The Pioneers were unable to score, but did draw a foul and went to the free throw line for two shots. They were unsuccessful on both attempts and Terryl Coombs boarded the final miss with under a second to play. He was fouled and made one-of-two free throws, and the Cougars escaped with the two-point win.

Peacock finished with a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Blackwell added 15 points and seven assists, Vaughn Boler chipped in 12 points and Meredith and Gray each finished with nine points.

The Cougars improve to 6-7 in conference play and are now 15-14 overall. They will end the regular season on Saturday afternoon when they host Erie Community College for a 3pm start.



The Genesee Community College women’s basketball team was unable to get past Alfred State College on Thursday night, falling on the road to the Lady Pioneers, 73-44.

Dashawna Jenifer again delivered a double-double for Genesee, posting 13 points and 11 rebounds. Dominique Davis scored a team-high 14 points on the night, which included four 3pt baskets.

Alfred State led the entire night and out-rebounded Genesee, 72-48. Genesee shot just 21% on the night and committed 16 turnovers.

The Lady Cougars fall to 0-11 in Western New York Athletic Conference play and are 1-22 on the year. They will conclude the regular season at home on Saturday afternoon when they host Erie Community College for a 1pm tip.

(Becky James (yellow) drives by an Alfred State defender)

Former Bills receiver serving as honorary chairman of GCC's Trek the Trail Walkin’ 'n’ Talkin’ event

By Howard B. Owens

Former Buffalo Bills wide receiver Lou Piccone, flanked by the Cougar Dance and Cheer teams, was at Genesee Community College today to promote the upcoming Trek the Trail Walkin’ 'n’ Talkin’ event.

Piccone is honorary chairman of the event, which is set for 8:30 a.m., April 20 at the college.

The walk around the Batavia campus is open to all – young, old, athletes of all persuasions, runners, walkers, alumni, faculty and staff, people with friendly dogs, or babies in strollers.

Participants in the fund-raising event will visit nine Cougar Stops along the route featuring an array of fun encounters and prizes. 

After the walk, a picnic lunch is provided on the East Lawn. Prizes will be awarded for most pledges raised by an individual, as a team, and to the GCC student club with the most pledges. Most creative team costumes will also be recognized.

Today, Piccone talked about his football career -- which included 100 passes for 1,380 yards and six touchdowns from 1977 through 1982 with the Bills and Jets.

He also explained that he is supporting the event because a college education helped him prepare for life, even an NFL career, where offensive schemes can get complicated and he had to be able to adapt to playing more than one position.

Registration for the event is $15 per participant and includes a T-shirt, picnic lunch, prizes and treats. Children 8 and under accompanied by an adult are free. 

To register or for more information, click here.

“We’re delighted that Lou Piccone will join us for our Trek the Trail, Walkin’ 'n’ Talkin' Scholarship fundraiser, and I’m excited to give him a tour of our campus ahead of time,” said Russ Romano, Trek the Trail committee member and GCC Foundation Board member. “He brings a level of enthusiasm that raises awareness on how this event serves a multitude of terrific purposes.

Below, people involved in organizing the event: Lou Piccone, Joanna Barefoot, Andrew Maguire, Nate Shirk, Eric Sandler, Andrew Crofts, Marc Staley, Marlin Salmon and Russ Romano.

Genesee loses a pair to Niagara

By Andrew Crofts

Two straight conference wins have the Genesee Community College men’s basketball team in the hunt to host a Region III playoff game when the first round rolls around in a couple of weeks, but the Cougars hit a stumbling block on Thursday night, losing to visiting Niagara County Community College, 73-71.

Niagara grabbed an early first half lead but the Cougars put together a 12-0 run halfway through the opening period to take a 30-19 advantage. The Thunderwolves responded with three straight 3pt baskets and got back to within four later in the half. Genesee took a 36-31 lead into the break.

GCC opened up a double-digit lead early in the second half, but with ten minutes to play, NCCC regained the lead after getting hot from three-point range. Both teams went toe-to-toe during the final few minutes but Niagara took a five point, 73-68 lead with a minute to go. GCC had a chance to capitalize on two missed one-and-one NCCC free throws, but were only able to cash in a 3pt basket from Malik Brown with under a second to play. The Thunderwolves were able to run out the clock and held on for the victory.



(#2 E.J. Blackwell goes to the basket against Niagara defenders on Thursday night)

 

Vaughn Boler led the way for Genesee with 18 points and nine rebounds. E.J. Blackwell finished with 14 points and 13 assists, Donte Meredith added 13 points and Joe Gray chipped in 10 points.

The Cougars fall to 14-14 on the season and 5-7 in conference play. They will travel to Alfred State College next Thursday night for a 7:30pm start.



The Genesee Community College women’s basketball team fell to Niagara County Community College for the second time this season on Thursday night, by a final score of 65-37.

GCC lost at Niagara in January and fell to the visitors on Thursday night to drop their overall season record to 1-21.

Becky James helped an otherwise slow start for the Lady Cougars, scoring nine of GCC‘s 17 first half points.

Trailing by nine after the half, Genesee gave up a 20-3 run to start the final twenty-minutes and could not find a way back into the game.

James scored a game-high 13 points, Dashawna Jenifer added 10 points and 14 rebounds and Nanase Akagami chipped in 10 points.

Genesee is now 0-10 in conference play and will travel to Alfred State next Thursday for a 5:30pm start.

GCC's Multicultural Communications Club is abuzz with accomplishments

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee Community College Multicultural Communications Club, a Toastmasters International Club, is generating a lot of buzz for its significant accomplishments. Five members of the mostly student group have received Toastmasters International certification in communication and four of those five earned leadership certification as well.

Earning the communication certification is no small feat. Members must give 10 presentations from the Toastmasters International Competent Communication Manual. Each one focuses on a specific area. Among them:

*    Introducing oneself

*    Getting to the point

*    Organizing a speech

*    Using body language

*    Using visual aids

*    Giving a persuasive speech

*    Giving an inspirational speech

In addition, the Leadership Certification involves 10 projects completed at meetings. Members may act as Toastmaster, timer, grammarian or may bring someone new to the club. Serving in different club roles gives them practical leadership experience in using people skills, being decisive and authentic, and moving the club forward.

"Earning the certifications takes a high level of commitment from both the students and the faculty advisors," said Club Co-advisor Jacqueline Di Bella, adjunct professor of Humanities at GCC. "The students we have are so motivated and committed to the discipline of communication and leadership. We are happy to support their efforts."

Di Bella also serves as the club's vice president of education.

The Toastmasters Club started in March 2011 and currently has 22 members. Toastmasters International is a nonprofit education organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills. At meetings, members act as evaluators, offering feedback on speeches to help other members improve.

"It's known as the 'feedback sandwich'," Di Bella said. "First you praise, then you recommend how the speaker can improve and you finish with praise. It's a very supportive environment that generates great results."

"To have these students achieve this designation so early in their academic and professional lives is amazing," Di Bella said. "It will open many doors for them in the future."

GCC announces employee and student of the month for February

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee Community College is pleased to announce Kirsten Tedesco has been named February 2013 Employee of the Month. Kirsten is a Business Training specialist in The BEST (Business and Employee Skills Training) Center, managing grant-funded training programs and ensuring client expectations are met.

Her job involves everything from scheduling to invoicing and lots of trouble-shooting in between – prompting her to describe her position as "professional juggler." She manages a heavy workload with organization, a positive attitude, and an ever-present smile. She also serves on GCC's Diversity and Creativity Committees.

Tedesco joined GCC two and a half years ago with a wide range of experience. She's been a financial consultant, a legal assistant and a teacher. She earned her business degree from SUNY Empire State College and an MBA from New York Institute of Technology.

There are many things she enjoys about her position at GCC, mostly the team she works with at The BEST Center, which she says provides "non-stop support and encouragement." She also notes, "GCC encourages employees to serve together on committees, making them a part of a larger group beyond their normal team. I love working in an environment that matches my passion for providing workforce development and training services to adult learners."

A resident of Amherst, Tedesco is passionate about her family outside of work. She is engaged to David Regan, has two daughters and two future stepdaughters who she enjoys spending as much time with as possible.

Genesee Community College is also pleased to announce Samantha Callisher has been named the February 2013 Student of the Month. Samantha, 20, is the daughter of Arthur and Pamela Callisher and sister to Jessica. She hails from Batavia and graduated from Batavia High School in 2011.

Callisher is studying Fashion Merchandising Management. A recipient of the President's Scholarship, she chose GCC because of its fashion program. Once she completes her studies here, she plans to go on to a university fashion program and eventually earn a master's degree in business. Her ultimate career goal is to become a fashion buyer for a successful retailer.

She can't say enough about what she's learning at GCC. "[Professor Rick] Dudkowski...has given me so many great opportunities and I have gained many lifelong connections from him that are going to make me into that successful buyer."

Currently, Callisher has a mentorship with NYC merchandiser Maria Pesin and is active on campus in Phi Theta Kappa and the DECA Club. She also gives back to her community by volunteering at Jackson Elementary School, the Batavia Nursing Home, and GCASA (Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse).

GCC men win, women fall to Mercyhurst North East

By Andrew Crofts

A hot start to Thursday night's game against visiting Mercyhurst North East had the Genesee Community College men's basketball team out to a 26-9 lead early in the first half of a big, late-season Western New York Athletic Conference clash.

Terryl Coombs scored six of Genesee's first nine points during the fast start and the Cougars were on their way to avenging a January 26th loss at Mercyhurst. The Saints responded, however, and went on a 14-0 run of their own to inch back to within three with four minutes to play in the opening period. GCC held a 32-29 lead at the half.

In the second half, the Saints continued to battle and took a 45-44 lead, six minutes in. Both teams exchanged small runs and with six minutes left, the Cougars held a 60-59 advantage. The next five offensive possessions helped GCC to earn their fifth conference victory of the season, as the Cougars scored 15 points in those five possessions, including two Donte Meredith three-point baskets, a traditional three-point play from Vaughn Boler and E.J. Blackwell and a three-point basket from Joe Gray.

Up 74-64 with three minutes left, Genesee did allow Mercyhurst to get back to within three at 74-71 with under a minute to play, but the Cougars went a perfect 4-4 from the free throw line during the final seconds and held on for an 80-73 win.

Boler and Meredith each scored a game high 23 points. Meredith hit five 3pt baskets on the night. Boler also grabbed 14 rebounds. Coombs finished with 11 rebounds and six points, Gray added 13 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists and Blackwell chipped in 15 points.

The win improves Genesee to 5-6 in conference play and 14-13 overall on the year. They will host Niagara County Community College on Thursday night for an 8pm start.

 

 

 

The Genesee Community College women’s basketball team dropped a Western New York Athletic Conference match up against Mercyhurst North East on Tuesday night, 66-48.

The Lady Cougars began the night on a 6-4 run to grab an early lead just three minutes into the contest. They then went through a nearly eight-minute scoreless drought, where Mercyhurst North East took advantage and went on a 13-0 run to take a 17-6 lead.

Genesee would fight back later in the half and cut into the Lady Saints lead after Becky James scored three straight baskets. Trailing by five, Dominique Davis inched GCC closer with a top of the key three-pointer, and Nanase Akagami tied the game after a defensive stop with a layup, completing a 9-0 run for Genesee and tying the game at 24-24.

Mercyhurst responded and went on a 6-0 run to take a 30-24 lead into halftime.

After the break, Davis hit her second of three, three-point basket on the night to get GCC to within three at 32-29. That was as close as the Lady Cougars would get the rest of the night, as Mercyhurst went on a mid-half run of 22-5 to put the game out of reach.

Davis finished the night with a team high 15 points, James added nine points, Paige Hennings and Sarah Scarborough each chipped in eight points and Dashawna Jenifer grabbed 10 rebounds.

Genesee falls to 1-20 on the year and 0-9 in conference play. They will host Niagara County Community College on Thursday night at 6pm.

Cougars down Jamestown-Olean

By Andrew Crofts

After a slow start on Saturday afternoon, the Genesee Community College men's basketball team bounced back from Thursday night's loss to pick up a win over Jamestown Community College-Olean, 87-71.

The Jaguars started the afternoon on an 8-0 run to grab the lead. Genesee responded with a 14-3 run to take the lead, a lead they would hold on to for the rest of the game. The Cougars only committed one turnover in the first twenty-minutes and led 34-28 at the break.

Donte Meredith hit an early second half three-point basket for GCC to increase their lead to nine. The Cougars led by 15 with just over 13 minutes to play, but saw their lead dip to just seven with seven minutes remaining.

After a timeout, Genesee went on a 15-2 run in a three-minute span to take control of the game and earned their fourth Western New York Athletic Conference victory of the season.

(Joe Gray (white) skies for a dunk in the first half of GCC’s win over Jamestown CC-Olean on Saturday afternoon)

 

Vaughn Boler finished the afternoon with a team-high 22 points and also collected eight rebounds. E.J. Blackwell added 19 points and five assists, Denzel Thomas and Terryl Coombs each chipped in ten points and Coombs also added eight points. Maurice Bailey scored eight points and Meredith finished with seven points.

Genesee improves to 13-13 on the season and 4-6 in conference play. They will host Mercyhurst North East on Tuesday night at 8pm.

 

 

 

Dedicated to education and to community, Lynn Browne honored in dedication ceremony at GCC

By Howard B. Owens

In the Lynn E. Browne Library Instruction Room, students at Genesee Community College not only learn skills that will help them successfully complete their education, but they receive lessons that will last them a lifetime.

That was the legacy Lynn Browne wanted, according to Rick Ensman, who said that when Browne was asked which room he wanted his name on in the Conable Technology Center while it was under construction, he insisted his name go on the little room in the library.

The room, named after Browne, who died in 2011, was officially dedicated Friday afternoon.

Browne was born and raised in Batavia, but college and a business career took him away from his native soil. He made his fortune in the button business, but returned to his hometown in retirement. He became a fixture in Batavia, involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors and volunteering with several community groups.

Browne's service included 14 years as a member of the Genesee Community College Foundation Board of Directors (1996-2010), 12 of those as treasurer. He was instrumental in overseeing substantial growth in the foundation's assets, its endowment fund, and had an unwavering commitment to student housing at College Village.

A contingent of Kiwanis members attended the ceremony because Browne was a dedicated Kiwanian who gave generously to the Batavia club both of his time and money. One member remembered how Browne used to randomly pass out silver dollars to fellow members. Browne was also a big supporter of the annual Kiwanis law enforcement awards.

Bill Kauffman (inset, left), local author and screenwriter, was the keynote speaker and recalled Browne as a friend and a tireless advocate for his hometown.

"Lynn told me that he’d never wanted to leave town in the first place," Kauffman said. "He wished to commute to the University of Rochester, but his mother insisted he attend the University of Pennsylvania. She rode the train to Philadelphia with him because she was afraid he’d get off at one of the stops and come back."

Kauffman served with Browne on the Holland Land Office Museum Board of Directors.

"He took up these responsibilities with a sense of duty but also with a real joy: these weren’t grim obligations to him; they were opportunities to express his love of his community," Kauffman said. "He served as our treasurer, as he served as treasurer for other organizations, and it was a fitting title in more ways than one: he really treasured these groups, treasured his neighbors. Lynn brightened his little corner of the world; he left it a richer place, and I don’t mean monetarily. He was a citizen of his place. He was a man to be emulated."

Lady Lakers top Lady Cougars

By Andrew Crofts

Dashawna Jenifer recorded another double-double effort for the Genesee Community College women's basketball team in a non-conference clash with Finger Lakes Community College on Tuesday night, but the Lady Cougars fell to the visiting Lady Lakers, 76-68.

Jenifer scored 13 points and grabbed ten rebounds in the first half alone for GCC, but the Lady Cougars fell behind early after not scoring for the first six minutes of the game. Finger Lakes jumped out to an 8-0 lead during that time, but Genesee battled back and got to within two after a 6-0 burst.

GCC turned the ball over 21 times in the opening half, but trailed by just seven at the break.

A 5-0 run to start the second half cut the Finger Lakes lead down to two at 39-37, but the Lady Lakers responded and took their lead into double-digits for the majority of the second half.

(Nanase Akagami (white) hits a 3pt basket early in the second half for GCC)

 

Genesee made a late surge and a Dominique Davis three-point basket got the Lady Cougars back to within six at 72-66 with a minute to play, but Finger Lakes converted at the free throw line during the final minute and earned the eight-point win.

Jenifer finished with a team-high 19 points and 16 rebounds. Davis added 14 points and Nanase Akagami chipped in 12 points. Falesha Moultrie grabbed seven rebounds and Paige Hennings dished out three assists.

Genesee falls to 1-18 on the season and will travel to Jamestown Community College for a 5:30pm start on Thursday night.

Rising Americana star Natalia Zukerman performs on Valentine's Day at GCC

By Billie Owens

Americana artist Natalia Zukerman performs at Genesee Community College's Stuart Steiner Theatre at 7 p.m. on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14. Tickets are adults $12; GCC alumni, seniors, staff $10; and GCC students with valid ID are $6.

“Natalia’s voice could send an orchid into bloom while her guitar playing can open a beer bottle with its teeth.” The New Yorker

“...a strutting brass band one minute, a sighing lover the next.” The Boston Globe

“...a wise mix of rootsy styles from torch blues to country swing. If you’re a fan of Madeleine Peyroux, Bonnie Raitt or even Amy Winehouse, you’ll find stuff to connect with here.” Philadelphia Daily News

Press release:

As singer, songwriter and guitarist, Natalia Zukerman shares her “rootsy warmth” through a blend of folk, jazz, blues, rock, bluegrass, country and classical music.

This “Dusty Valentine” concert will be a special night for all, as she plays her unique slide guitar with her seductive vocals, unapologetic lyrics and sharp wit.

Zukerman is also a visual artist who allows her artistic and creative instincts to move, shape and influence one another. She is a mural painter and designer, and while living in San Francisco she had her own mural company, Off the Wall. Now a resident of Brooklyn, Zukerman has numerous murals in restaurants and public spaces in and around Brooklyn, as well as across the U.S. and in Cuba.

She passed through this region last summer impressing audiences at a "blue moon" concert at the Silver Lake Institute.

Her new album is titled “Gypsies and Clowns.”

The GCC Box Office phone number 345-6814 or boxoffice@genesee.edu

Cougars escape with win at Jamestown-Olean

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College men's basketball team overcame an eight-point halftime deficit to win at Jamestown Community College-Olean on Saturday afternoon, 94-91.

Vaughn Boler scored eight of GCC's first 16 points to help the Cougars to an early ten-point lead. Jamestown would get hot from the floor and held a 54-46 lead after a high scoring first half.

Genesee closed the gap early in the second half and E.J. Blackwell tied the game at 61 with a three-point basket. Jamestown would regain the lead and led by as many as six with under six minutes to play. The Cougars got key baskets from Boler, Blackwell and Donte Meredith late, and converted at the freethrow line to grab a 94-91 lead with under ten seconds to play. With one last possession, Jamestown was unable to get off a final shot, and GCC left with the win.

Four Cougars reached double-digits in scoring, led by Boler who finished with 23 points. Joe Gray added 18 points, Terryl Coombs chipped in 16 and Blackwell finished with 15.

The Cougars improve to 12-12 on the season and are 3-5 in conference play. Their next contest will be on Thursday night when they travel to Jamestown Community College.

GCC announces Spring lecture series on Civil War

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee Community College has finalized its four-part spring lecture series on the history of the Civil War. All are scheduled at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at the Batavia campus in Room T102. They are free and open to the public. Pre-registration for each lecture is encouraged by contacting The BEST Center at 345-6868

On Feb. 6 -- "Hanging Henry Wirz: Debating the Meaning of 'War Crimes' during the American Civil War" will be presented by Carole Emberton, assistant professor of History at the University of Buffalo.

Her presentation will explore how the concept of "war crimes" emerged in response to Wirz's trial as commandant of Andersonville Prison. The debate over Wirz's guilt as well as other atrocities committed during the war, including the 1864 Sand Creek Massacre and even the act of secession itself, reveal the anxiety produced by the war's immense devastation and the struggle to control its meaning for future generations. It also highlights the importance of mid-19th Century developments in international law pertaining to the rules of war and justice for those who violate them.

On March 13 -- Stephen McKinley Henderson will speak about "Story-Line Acting" and his experiences as an actor in both film and on stage. The audience will be particularly interested in his role as Abraham Lincoln's personal valet in the film "Lincoln," which was recently nominated for 12 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor.

Henderson is a professor of theater and dance at the University of Buffalo. He was nominated for the Tony Award in 2010 for his work on the Broadway production of "Fences" with Denzel Washington, and he has appeared in Steven Spielberg's "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close." He also appeared in the comedy "Tower Heist" and the HBO series "The Newsroom."

On April 3 -- A lecture titled "Myths and More at Gettysburg" with George McGaughey.

No Civil War battlefield is more famous (at least in the North) than Gettysburg. To many, it is sacred ground that warrants many visits and careful study, and like any other historical landscape, it is prone to myths and legends. In this talk, McGaughey will discuss the basis of those myths and the many discoveries he has made as a frequent visitor. His findings will surprise even the most knowledgeable Civil War buff.

On May 1 -- The Spring 2013 Lecture series in Batavia concludes with GCC Professor Garth Swanson presenting the "New York's Forgotten War -- The War of 1812 and the Making of the Empire State."

The War of 1812 remains a confusing and little remembered chapter in the history of the United States. New York, as a result of its extensive border with British-controlled Canada, was one of the primary fronts of the war and its residents experienced considerable hardship over the three years of the conflict. In addition, political divisions brought on by the war threatened to tear the state apart internally. Yet, New York quickly emerged from the war stronger and more economically vibrant than ever. In his talk, Professor Swanson will assess the role of New York in the conflict and evaluate the ways the war helped to create a modern New York State.

(In addition to the lecture series, a three-day Civil War encampment will take place at the Medina Campus Center from Friday, April 26 until Sunday, April 28. The encampment will include reenactors in authentic soldier costumes setting up Union and Confederate camps and many other events and reenactments throughout the weekend.)

For further information on the Civil War and the initiative at GCC, check out the Civil War blog at http://civilwaratgcc.wordpress.com/.

GCC to dedicate Library Instruction Room to Lynn E. Browne

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee Community College is pleased to announce the dedication of the Library Instruction Room to the memory of Lynn E. Browne and members of the Browne Family. A dedication ceremony is planned at 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 8.

Refreshments will be provided for the event, which is free and open to the public. Interested attendees are asked to RSVP by calling the GCC Foundation office at 585-345-6809.

Lynn E. Browne was a native of Batavia and a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Finance. After serving in the Army with distinction during World War II, he married Phyllis Shiekman and they settled in Philadelphia where he built a successful career in the garment industry, eventually owning one of the nation's leading button distribution companies. After his wife's death, Browne returned to his beloved hometown and immersed himself in serving the Batavia community.

Browne's service included 14 years as a member of the Genesee Community College Foundation Board of Directors (1996-2010), 12 of those as treasurer. He was instrumental in overseeing substantial growth in the foundation's assets, its endowment fund, and had an unwavering commitment to student housing at College Village.

In 2006, the Genesee Community College Foundation honored Browne as the first recipient of its Alpha Medal of Service, a prestigious honor now bestowed annually on one individual who has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and service to the college. Last May, college trustees designated the library classroom to his honor.

"Throughout all of Lynn's efforts and service to Genesee Community College and the foundation students were consistently a common denominator. He continuously focused on enabling the success of students by removing the barriers that might be in their way -- whether that was student housing, scholarships or other financial concerns," said Rick Ensman, director of Development and External Affairs.

"It is therefore, very appropriate to have a room in our college library dedicated to Lynn, and we are grateful to the Browne family for sharing his crystal Alpha Medal of Service Award for this unique space."

Genesee comes up empty at Monroe

By Andrew Crofts

Three Lady Cougars reached double-figures in scoring at Monroe Community College on Thursday night, but the Genesee Community College women's basketball team fell to the Lady Tribunes, 88-46.

Dashawna Jenifer scored a team-high 14 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for GCC. Paige Hennings and Nanase Akagami eached scored ten points.

Genesee's only lead came after a first possesion basket by Falesha Moultrie to put GCC in front 2-0. Monroe went on to outscore Genesee 45-15 in the first half and 43-31 in the second. The Lady Cougars committed 25 tournovers on the night.

Genesee falls to 1-17 on the season and 0-7 in Western New York Athletic Conference play. They will host Finger Lakes Community College on Tuesday night at 6pm.



Monroe Community College used a late run to put away Genesee Community College on Thursday night, turning a close game late into an 80-66 win.

The Cougars held the No. 5 Tribunes to 34% shooting in the first half, but trailed 31-30 at the break.

Genesee was within two at 61-59 with just under seven minutes left in the game before Monroe went on a 13-1 run to take control of the game.

Foul troubled plagued GCC, which saw three players foul out in the contest.

Vaughn Boler led the way for Genesee scoring 19 points. He also grabbed eight rebounds. E.J. Blackwell added 14 points and five assists and Donte Meredith chipped in ten points.

Genesee out-rebounded Monroe 47-42 on the night but gave up 33 points on 23 turnovers.

The Cougars fall to 11-12 on the year and are now 2-5 in Western New York Athletic Conference play.

They will travel to Jamestown Community College-Olean on Saturday afternoon for a 1pm start.

A pair of road losses for Genesee at Mercyhurst

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College men's basketball team made a late charge on the road at Mercyhurst North East on Saturday afternoon, but came up short in their fourth conference loss of the season.

Both teams played at an even pace until late in the first half when Mercyhurst turned an 18-18 tie into a 30-24 lead with a pair of three-point baskets and a trio of layups on the offensive end. The Saints took a 43-39 lead into the break.

In the second half, Joe Gray turned a missed shot into a tip-in basket and tied the game at 54 with 14 minutes left in the game. The Saints responded with a 16-6 run and took a ten-point, 70-60 lead with eight minutes remaining. Mercyhurst upped their lead to as many as 14 with five minutes to go, but the Cougars battled back.

Malik Brown hit a jump shot with under three minutes to play to cut the lead down to nine, and after forcing a couple of Mercyhurst turnovers, Donte Meredith got the Cougars to within five with a layup with under a minute to play. GCC then forced another turnover and capitalized with a Voughn Boler layup to make it a three-point game with less than 30 seconds to go. After a pair of made free-throws by the home team, Brown stepped into a top of the key three-pointer and cut the lead down to two with under five seconds remaining. Unable to come away with a steal, GCC was forced to put the Saints at the line where they converted on both free-throws to put the game out of reach. Mercyhurst went on to win, 91-87.

Meredith led the way for Genesee with 19 points, Boler added 15, Gray and E.J. Blackwell each finished with 14 points and Terryl Coombs grabbed ten rebounds.

The loss evens Genesee's overall season record to 11-11 and the Cougars are now 2-4 in conference play. They will return to action on Thursday when they travel to Monroe Community College.



A second half scoring drought proved costly for the Genesee Community College women's basketball team on Saturday afternoon, as the Lady Cougars fell on the road at Mercyhurst North East, 83-47.

Genesee began the afternoon with a 10-4 run to start the game. Becky James scored four quick points to spark the hot start, but Mercyhurst responded with an 11-0 run to take the lead. GCC hung around in the first half and trailed by five, 37-32 at the half.

Genesee began the second half by going on a ten-minute scoreless drought. During that time, the Lady Saints went on a 23-0 run to take a 60-32 lead and put the game out of reach.

Dashawna Jenifer led the way for Genesee with 15 points. She also collected 16 rebounds. Nanase Akagami added nine points and James finished with eight points and eight rebounds.

Genesee falls to 1-16 on the year and 0-6 in conference play. They will travel to Monroe Community College on Thursday night for their next contest.

Cougars edge Jamestown, comeback bid falls short for Lady Cougars

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College men's basketball team put their five-game losing streak behind them with a win on Tuesday night and followed it up with another Western New York Athletic Conference win on Thursday night, defeating visiting Jamestown Community College, 74-70.

Vaughn Boler helped Genesee to a first half lead with 15 points in the opening period. The Cougars shot better than 55% from the floor in the opening twenty-minutes and were 9/10 from the free-throw line. Jamestown hung around with four 3-pt baskets in the opening half, however, and GCC led 43-35 at the break.

(Vaughn Boler (white) scores two of his game-high 32 points in win over Jamestown CC)

 

Genesee extended their lead to double-digits in the early part of the second half after Boler converted on one of two free-throws and Terryl Coombs added a layup to give the Cougars a 46-35 advantage. The Jayhawks battled back, however, and took their first lead of the game at 63-62 with under eight minutes to play. After a back-and-forth final few minutes, Genesee took the lead back with under a minute to play after a Boler basket. They led 71-70. Coombs added a late free-throw and Boler iced the game with a last second layup to give Genesee the win.

Boler finished with a game-high 32 points. Coombs added 16 points and 12 rebounds, Denzel Thomas and E.J. Blackwell each added eight points. Blackwell also added eight assists.

The win improves Genesee to 11-10 overall on the season and 2-3 in conference play. They will return to action on Saturday when they travel to Mercyhurst North East for a 3pm start.

 

 

After falling behind by as many as 20 points, the Genesee Community College women’s basketball team came up just short on Thursday night, falling to visiting Jamestown Community College in one of their best efforts of the year.

The Lady Cougars battled in an even start to the first half. With the game tied 25-25, the GCC offense went cold and the Lady Jayhawks made a 15-0 run to end the half and take a 40-25 lead into the break.

Jamestown continued their run to start the second half and jumped out to a 45-25 lead just two minutes in.

After a Genesee timeout, the Lady Cougars put together a ten-minute stretch that saw them eventually cut the JCC lead down to four at 57-53. That was as close as they would get, however, as Jamestown converted late and time ran out on GCC. A late three-pointer from Dominique Davis got GCC to within five at 67-62, but the Lady Jayhawks held on to win, 68-63.

Dashawna Jenifer led the way for GCC with a game-high 22 points and also a game-high 16 rebounds. Davis added 20 points and Nanase Akagami chipped in 14 points. Jackie Janes grabbed 11 rebounds.

Genesee falls to 1-15 on the year and 0-5 in conference play. They will travel to Mercyhurst North East on Saturday for a 1pm start.

College trustees approve two new concentrations in Fashion Business program

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee Community College Board of Trustees approved two new academic concentrations in the Fashion Business program on Monday night – E-Commerce and Event Planning.

The new concentrations will permit students to focus their study in the rapidly growing fields of online retailing and retail/business event management. The plan for the new concentrations will now be forwarded to the State University of New York and the New York State Education Department for approval.

An academic concentration is a cluster of courses focusing on a specialized topic. Students pursuing either of the new concentrations will still receive a degree in Fashion Business, but they will participate in extensive coursework in their areas of special interest.

The E-Commerce field is experiencing explosive growth, according to Interim Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Michael S. Stoll. In the early years of the Internet, only a few retailers sold goods and services online. A lot has changed.

"Virtually all major retailers have an online presence and most small- and mid-sized businesses are discovering they need to sell online in order to build their customer base," Stoll told trustees.

Board Chair Maureen T. Marshall recounted a conversation she had with a senior officer of one of the nation's leading retailers who told her that the company was struggling to improve its online presence and needed qualified employees in the e-commerce area. Students pursing the E-Commerce concentration will be prepared to help manage retail Web sites and online processing centers, and plan and implement online retail campaigns.

The Event Planning concentration focuses on the growing number and variety of business-oriented special events, especially retailing events. Retailers based in traditional stores are discovering they often need to stage special promotions and events to attract customers or introduce new product lines, Stoll said.

These include freestanding events in highly trafficked stores, malls and other public locations. Students completing the concentration will be prepared to implement complex event project plans that can include promotion, logistics, food and beverages, security, and a wide variety of other elements that comprise a successful event. Students will also be prepared to plan and implement activities at trade shows and conventions.

The two new concentrations will not require new faculty or staff, Stoll said. Courses involved in the concentrations, such as Customer Relationship Management, Principles of Event Management, Meeting and Convention Planning, Introduction to Project Management, Computer Graphics, Introduction to Web Development, and Web Publishing are already offered as part of other academic programs at Genesee.

Student Trustee Samantha Macey Vogt said that the new Event Management concentration will enrich the experience of many Fashion Business students involved with the college's April Fashion Show. The show is produced entirely by students, who must plan and arrange for thousands of details, Vogt said. The Genesee Community College Fashion Show has earned a reputation for excellence, and is now one of the largest fashion shows in Western New York, attracting about 1,600 guests annually. This year's show is scheduled for April 27 at the Batavia campus.

The Fashion Business program prepares students for a wide variety of careers in the fashion and retailing fields. Graduates work in the design industry, marketing industry, manage wholesaling and distribution operations, and manage retail stores. The popular program attracts students locally and internationally, President James M. Sunser noted.

In other business, trustees approved continuing (four-year) appointments for 35 faculty and staff members, including 11 first-time continuing appointments.

Receiving their first continuing appointments were learning specialist Susan M. Chiddy, instructor/librarian Michelle A. Eichelberger, and the following instructors: Deborah A. Carrasquillo, Nursing;  Amy V. Conley, Accounting; Gary W. Glaser, Biology; Jodi S. Harvey, Teacher Education; Roxanne M. Holthaus, Nursing; Eileen M. Mathis, Psychology and Human Services; Derek D. Maxfield, History; Tonya L. Passamonte, Nursing; and Teresa L. Sukiennicki, Biology.

These faculty and staff members were reappointed:

  • James M. Bucki, director, Academic Computer Technology Programs;
  • Professors Michael A. Crittenden -- Physics, Donna J. Ehrhart -- Business/Computer Information Systems, Kathleen A. Kimber -- Spanish, Frank L. Mayo  -- Speech and Theater, and Jane A. Weston -- Biology;
  • Associate professors Michelle D. Abdella -- Mathematics, Elise C. Banfield -- Psychology, Marina A. Cappellino -- Computer Systems and Network Technologies, Cheryl A. Corke -- Accounting, Julie A. Jackson-Coe -- Reading, Patricia J. Kendall-Cargill -- Nursing, Pamela E. Swarts -- Digital Art;
  • Assistant professor/librarian Nichola J. Lerczak;
  • Academic advisor Mary Jo Dumuhosky;
  • Technical specialists Lisa E. Papke -- Office of Financial Assistance, Katie M. Brown -- Office of Financial Assistance, Amy L. Churchfield -- Dansville Campus Center, and Carrie E. Sputore -- Office of Admissions;
  • Technical assistants Nina I. Mortellaro -- Human Communications and Behavior, and David W. Sink -- Arcade Campus Center;
  • Academic support assistant Judith M. Littlejohn;
  • Athletic assistant Ronald L. Spiotta;
  • And Student Resource Center associate Jennifer L. Ross.

Trustees also:

•    Heard Vice President for Student and Enrollment Services Virginia M. Taylor report that the opening of classes Monday went smoothly. She said that some students waited until the last minute to register for classes. "The Records and Advisement offices were swamped today," she said. Taylor noted that the college's 12-week course session will begin Feb. 11, and prospective students who have not registered for the Spring 2013 semester but who still wish to pursue study this semester can register for 12-week session classes now.

•    Heard Director of Development and External Affairs Richard G. Ensman Jr. report on the current activities of the Genesee Community College Foundation. He said that current priorities include alumni and community outreach, regional giving, additional student housing services, and growth of Trek the Trail, a springtime fundraising event for friends and alumni. Ensman also said that the foundation hopes to provide support for the college's Facilities Master Plan. "There's a lot of interest and excitement about what this Facilities Master Plan can mean to the college and the community," he said.

•    Heard President Sunser report that Jamie L. Chappius has joined the college's staff as technical assistant at the Medina Campus Center. She is a resident of Albion, and most recently served as a graduate assistant at the School of Nursing at the University at Buffalo. She holds B.A. and Ed.M. degrees from the University at Buffalo.

GCC Basketball: men cruise, women fall against Alfred State

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College men's basketball team snapped a five-game losing streak, which included their first three Western New York Athletic Conference games of the year, by defeating visiting Alfred State College, 76-47 on Tuesday night.

Joe Gray set the tone with a first half double-double, collecting ten rebounds and scoring ten points for Genesee.

The Cougars cashed in five times from three-point range in the opening half and led the entire night.

Vaughn Boler returned from injury to score 15 points on six-of-nine shooting and grab seven rebounds in just over fifteen minutes of work.

The GCC defense stymied the Pioneers to just 24% shooting in the second half and Donte Meredith scored a game-high 18 points,  which included five 3-pt baskets. Genesee ended the night with 12 baskets from long-range.

Gray finished with ten points and 14 rebounds, Malik Brown chipped in 13 points and Terryl Coombs put together another strong effort, scoring nine points and grabbing eight boards.

The win is the tenth (10-10) on the season for GCC and their first in conference (1-3) this year. The Cougars will host Jamestown Community College this Thursday night at 8pm.

 

 

The Genesee Community College women's basketball team will have to keep searching for their first conference win of the season after falling to visiting Alfred State College, 81-35 on Tuesday night.

Genesee battled in a close first half that separated the two teams by just ten points. The Lady Cougars jumped out to an early six-point advantage before Alfred State responded at took back the lead for good halfway through the opening period.

Dashawna Jenifer and Nanase Akagami combined to score 14 of GCC's 20 first half points.

In the second half, Genesee was held to just 15 points on 4-of-30 shooting from the field.

Akagami finished the night with 15 points and Jenifer chipped in nine. Sarah Scarborough and Jackie Janes each grabbed eight rebounds in the losing effort.

Genesee falls to 0-4 in conference play and are now 1-14 on the year. They will return to action on Thursday night when they host Jamestown Community College.

Genesee basketball drops a pair at Niagara

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College men's and women's basketball programs are still winless in conference play this season, after falling to Niagara County Community College on the road on Saturday afternoon.

In the women's game, the Lady Cougars overcame an early eight-point hole to take a lead late in the first half. A Dominique Davis three-point basket gave Genesee a 17-15 lead with a little over five minutes remaining in the opening period. The Lady Thunderwolves responded and closed the half on a 7-3 run and took back the lead for good, leading 22-20 at the break.

In the second half, Niagara held Genesee to just eight field goals and outscored the visitors, 35-18, ending the afternoon with a 57-38 win.

Davis converted on two of her six three-point attempts in the game and led GCC in scoring with 12 points. Paige Hennings chipped in ten points and Dashawna Jenifer added six points and seven rebounds.

Genesee falls to 0-3 in conference play and are now 1-13 on the year. They will return home and host Alfred State on Tuesday night at 6pm.

 

In the men's game, Genesee held only one lead throughout the afternoon. E.J. Blackwell hit a first-possession three-pointer for the Cougars, who went up 3-0 just fifteen-seconds into the contest. The Thunderwolves quickly responded and took a 5-3 lead just two minutes later and did not look back.

Niagara out-rebounded Genesee 27-14 in the opening half and took advantage with ten second-chance points. They led 41-28 at halftime.

The Thunderwolves held the Cougars to under 22% shooting from the field in the second half and did not see their lead drop below ten. Their largest advantage came in the closing seconds when they took a 86-58 lead, which proved to be the final.

Despite their scoring troubles, Genesee saw three scorers reach double-figures. Terryl Coombs led the way with 15 points, Donte Meredith added 13 points and Joe Gray chipped in 12 points. Blackwell finished with seven points and also grabbed eight rebounds.

Genesee is now 0-3 in conference play and 9-10 overall on the season. They will host Alfred State on Tuesday night at 8pm.

Monroe sweeps Genesee

By Andrew Crofts

Riding a three-game losing skid, the Genesee Community College men's basketball schedule did not get any easier on Tuesday night. The Monroe Community College Tribunes, the second-ranked team in the NJCAA Division II, came to town sporting a 14-2 record and proved why they are off to such a fast start this season.

MCC began the night on an 8-0 run and built a twenty-five point lead behind John Velez-Rivera's five first half three-pointers. He was a perfect 5-5 from beyond the arc in the opening half.

The Cougars were within four about ten minutes into the game before a Velez-Rivera layup sparked a 16-4 run to give the Tribunes control. MCC converted on ten first half three-pointers and led 54-29 at the break.

The second half was more of the same as Monroe cashed in five more times from long-range, upping their lead into the 40's for the later part of the game. The Tribunes would cruise to a 106-58 win.

E.J. Blackwell scored 18 points in the losing effort for GCC and Terryl Coombs added 16 points and nine rebounds.

Velez-Rivera finished with 23 points for MCC.

Genesee now drops to 0-2 in the conference and are 9-9 on the season. They will return to action on Saturday when they travel to Niagara County Community College for a 3pm start.

 

 

The Genesee Community College women's basketball team fell to conference rival and Division I opponent Monroe Community College on Tuesday night, 88-27.

Paige Hennings scored eleven points and also grabbed nine rebounds for GCC, but turnovers were once again an issue with the Lady Cougars. Monroe forced 31 turnovers on the night and capitalized with 49 points off of takeaways.

GCC was held to just nine points in the second half.

(#15 Dashawna Jenifer tries to work by an MCC defender)

 

Dashawna Jenifer chipped in nine points for Genesee, who falls to 0-2 in conference play and 1-12 on the season.

The Lady Cougars will return to conference action on Saturday afternoon when they travel to Niagara County Community College for a 1pm start.

 

 

 

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