Skip to main content

GCC

GCC's marketing department earns awards

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee Community College's Marketing Communications department was the recipient of two National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR) District 1 Medallion awards.

GCC won a Gold Medallion of Excellence in the Social Marketing category, and a Silver Medallion of Excellence in the Postcard category. All aspects of the publications development, including copy writing, photography, video, and graphic design were completed in-house through the College's Marketing Communications office.

Winning in the Social Marketing category was "GCC Gets Social" social media campaign that included efforts in Facebook, Twitter, numerous Youtube videos, use of QR codes and other networking sites. The submission covered the background research, objectives, execution, results and evaluation of the campaign. This was the first time the college had entered a submission in the Social Marketing category.

To view GCC's Facebook page visit www.facebook.com/GeneseeCommunityCollege. The college can also be followed on Twitter by visiting www.twitter.com/sunygcc.

Winning in the Postcard category was the Genesee Center for the Arts Calendar of Events. The postcards are distributed to more than 3,000 community members at the beginning of each season to promote a wide array of art events occurring at Genesee Center for the Arts.

The direct mail piece showcases performing art events as well as gallery exhibitions and receptions using an assortment of collage-like techniques. From creative font applications to pastel and watercolor brush strokes, dynamic backgrounds, and replications of real artwork – various elements of the art season are blended together masterfully on each postcard to promote the coming semester's art exhibits, performing artists or plays.

(The Center for the Arts Calendar of Events previously won a Gold Medallion of Excellence at the 2010 NCMPR District I Medallion awards.)

GCC has new credit transfer agreement with the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising College

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Fashion Business students can get a jump start on their bachelor's degree requirements thanks to administrators at Genesee Community College and LIM College (Laboratory Institute of Merchandising).

A new articulation agreement between the two institutions has been created so that GCC students have course and degree requirements defined early in their college careers, enabling them to enter as a junior in the program of their choice at LIM College.

Devoted exclusively to the business of fashion, LIM College offers a unique combination of strong academics and extensive hands-on experience to prepare students for a successful future in the fast-paced fashion industry. At the undergraduate level, LIM College offers majors in Fashion Merchandising, Management, Marketing and Visual Merchandising. Genesee's Fashion Business degree program aligns well with these Bachelor's of Business Administration degrees.

This agreement enables GCC students to take advantage of unique opportunities and benefits such as knowing the recommended course selections that secure acceptance into a four-year program at LIM. Upon successful completion of the outlined requirements in the agreement, students will be guaranteed admission to LIM in their desired major, provided they maintain a 2.5 or higher GPA.

"This is an exciting agreement for many of our Fashion Business students," said Patrick Walter, transfer coordinator at GCC. "With LIM's location in New York City, a major fashion hub, students will get extensive hands-on experience of the fashion industry, making them better prepared to enter the workforce."

Genesee Community College has transfer agreements with over 45 different institutions. For further information, please contact Patrick Walter at 343-0055, ext. 6430, or go to: http://www.genesee.edu/Transfer.

GCC offers new math and science prep program for middle-schoolers

By Billie Owens

Research suggests that gifted and talented students are more likely to reach their full potential if they are immersed in an enriched curriculum that matches their aptitude rather than their age. In order to assist the GLOW region in providing such opportunities, ACE Programs of Genesee Community College is pleased to announce a new program available to students demonstrating early signs of high potential in math and science.

The Math Science Preparatory program for students in seventh and eighth grade will be taught by full-time GCC math and science faculty and expand upon the NYS math and science standards with content designed to prepare students for the academic rigor of college level science and mathematics.

Students who successfully complete the two-year program will be eligible to participate in the Accelerated College Enrollment STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Enrichment Program at GCC, including an option to complete an associates (AS) degree in Engineering Sciences within months of high school graduation.

The goal of the preparatory program is to provide students with the opportunity to prepare for successful participation in this accelerated course of study.

Participating in any of the ACE Programs allows students to gain transferable college credit at a greatly reduced tuition rate (a third of the regular in-state tuition charged by GCC). ACE programs have always provided opportunities for exceptionally motivated students to achieve enough college credits to potentially earn an associate degree. But the STEM enrichment program will be the first opportunity for high school students to pursue a specific AS degree through GCC.

Although there are many gifted and talented students who would benefit from this type of preparatory instruction, ACE can only select 48 participants for the first semester of Math Science Prep to ensure the highest quality experience for each student.

All applicants must be nominated by a math or science teacher and approved by a school counselor or principal. Nominations must be submitted by March 15. Students will be invited to complete the application process after review of the nomination. The application deadline is March 30. Those accepted into the program will be notified by May 1 and activities will begin during the summer of 2012.

While the ACE Programs office has shared this information with all area middle schools and is seeking nominations, parents and students are encouraged to be proactive and submit the nomination by contacting the ACE Programs office or their school counselor. Additionally, GCC will award two students one-year scholarships to the program through the first annual GCC sixth grade Math/Science Scholar awards.

For more information contact: Karlyn M. Finucane, program specialist, ACE Programs, 343-0055, ext. 6320, or email kmfinucane@genesee.edu.

Got problems? Find creative ways to solve them with new GCC course

By Billie Owens

Press release:

In keeping with Genesee Community College's ongoing mission of prioritizing student success and giving them a competitive edge across all curriculum, a new course called Creative Problem Solving will be offered exclusively at the Batavia Campus.

It will focus on the interactive elements involved in deliberate creativity and innovation; specifically the creative person, the creative process, the creative product and the creative environment. It can enhance job security and long-term economic stability in the Innovation Era.

CPS190: Creative Problem Solving is a three-credit, 12-week elective and will be offered Feb. 13 through May 12. It's open to students in all curriculum and academic programs.

Students interested in this course are encouraged to register quickly since seats are limited. It will be taught by adjunct instructor Michaelene Dawson and offered on Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 1:25 to 3:15 p.m. To apply for classes visit www.genesee.edu/Apply.

Further emphasis on individual application for personal and professional growth will be developed throughout the course. The goal is to recognize, understand and nurture each student's creative potential.

Students will use the creative problem-solving (CPS) process through a prototype project. First, the CPS students identify and explore a difficult problem or challenge, and apply the CPS process toward a workable prototype solution.

At the culmination of the course, students present their identified problem and challenge, and explain how the CPS process lead to their prototype resolution. An oral presentation is shared with their fellow students and other interested parties.

"Whether students wind up working in manufacturing, health care, business or the service industry, creative problem solving is a skill that all employers are seeking," said Lina LaMattina, director of Business Skills Training of The BEST Center.

"Both Business Week and Fortune magazines have proclaimed innovation is key to achieving a strategic advantage in today's rapidly changing global marketplace. Through CPS190, GCC students will develop new leadership skills, helping them navigate and thrive under all economic conditions. In the end, creative problem-solving skills create better thinkers and citizens in the communities in which we live."

GCC and Medaille College approve academic credit transfers for international students

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Administrators at Genesee Community College and Medaille College in Buffalo have created an articulation agreement expanding the opportunity for international students to transfer associates degree credits earned at GCC toward a bachelor's degree from Medaille College.

With this updated agreement, courses and program requirements are defined so that international students can make a smooth transition to their desired baccalaureate program at Medaille.

Currently, more than 100 international students from 27 countries are pursuing their academic goals at GCC. The contributions made by these students, both socially and academically, have significantly enriched the diversity and culture of GCC.

This articulation agreement enables international students to take advantage of unique opportunities and benefits such as knowing the recommended course selections that secure acceptance into a four-year program at Medaille. Upon successful completion of the outlined requirements in the agreement, students will be guaranteed admission to Medaille in their desired major.

Genesee Community College offers several programs that align well with many of Medaille's degree programs. The ideal pathway from GCC to Medaille for internationals students is GCC's Liberal Arts and Science: General Studies (A.S.) program. In addition, Accounting, Business Administration, Communications, Criminal Justice and Sport Management are other program-specific options for international students.

"After graduation, many of our international students choose to continue their education here in the United States," said Patrick Walter, GCC transfer coordinator. "This agreement will aid so many of our students from around the globe in achieving their dreams of higher education."

Genesee Community College has transfer agreements with more than 45 different institutions. For further information, please contact Patrick Walter at 343-0055, ext. 6430, or go to: http://www.genesee.edu/Transfer.

Volunteer firefighters eligible for tuition reimbursement at GCC

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Local volunteer firefighters have the opportunity to continue their education at Genesee Community College thanks to the Fireman's Association of the State of New York's (FASNY) new Higher Education Learning Plan (HELP).

To address the vital need for volunteers, FASNY has developed HELP as an incentive for people to serve in New York's volunteer fire services. This program will provide tuition reimbursement to student-volunteers allowing them to attain up to 80 credit hours from their closest New York State chartered community college.

Volunteer firefighters interested in the FASNY Higher Education Learning Plan are urged to go online to www.fasny.com and click on information involving the Tuition Reimbursement Program. The deadline for the spring semester is February 1.

Under the FASNY HELP tuition reimbursement program, student-volunteers will be eligible to have up to 100 percent of their tuition reimbursed in exchange for maintaining defined grades and fulfilling defined service requirements as a member in good standing in one of New York's volunteer fire companies. There is no restriction on the type of academic course(s) the FASNY HELP student-volunteer can pursue.

"Volunteer firefighters do a great service to our communities," said Tanya Lane-Martin, GCC director of Admissions. "We're happy to help these dedicated men and women achieve their dreams of acquiring higher education."

In addition to the HELP program from FASNY, local volunteer firefighters are also eligible for the Benjamin Franklin Scholarship from the GCC Foundation. Any individual who has served as a volunteer firefighter or volunteer emergency responder in the GLOW region for at least a year is eligible to apply, as are spouses, children, and grandchildren of volunteer responders.

The scholarship program is named for Benjamin Franklin, one of the founders of the United States and the founder of America's first volunteer firefighting company. Further information and scholarship applications can be found at www.genesee.edu/financial/scholarships.

GCC offers two new history and poli sci classes

By Billie Owens

Press release:

In recognition of the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War, Genesee Community College is proud to announce two new history and political science courses for the spring semester. The American Civil War (HIS290) will be offered from 9:30 to 10:50 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at the Batavia and Lima campuses via V-link. The American Presidency (POS210) will be offered from 11 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Batavia campus.

Taught by History faculty member Derek Maxfield, The American Civil War examines the coming of the Civil War, tracing the causes from the rise of slavery in America and the creation of the Constitution to westward expansion and diverging economic bases, as well as the military, political and cultural aspects of the war itself.

"It is a great time to be offering this, as we are now commemorating the 150th anniversary of that war," Maxfield said. "In addition to the normal political and military narrative, I will also ask students to consider how Victorian culture influenced both the coming of the war and the way it was fought.

"This course is very personal for me, as I have five great-grandfathers that served. One of those, William Reese, fought with the 149th PA Infantry 'Bucktails' at Gettysburg on the first day. He was wounded but survived the battle and the war."

The American Presidency examines the historical foundations, theoretical aspects and the powers of the presidency. Students will explore the various models of presidential power, the major issues scholars are investigating, and will complete a project based on observation, hypothesis development, collection of data, evaluation of evidence, and interpretive analysis.

"Although the course is a Political Science offering, I will be taking an interdisciplinary approach that explores the evolution of the presidency since its beginnings," Maxfield said. "It is exciting to be offering the course at the same time that the caucuses and primaries are in full swing. We will be able utilize current events as we go along.

"I can also share with students my own experiences working on a presidential campaign. I worked for Senator Paul Simon of Illinois when he ran for the Democratic nomination in 1988. It was an exciting time and I learned how much I did not know about the realities of national politics."

Both courses are three-credit courses and are offered to full- and part-time students. Senior citizens can also audit these courses for free, if space is available. For further information contact Derek Maxfield at 343-0055, ext. 6288, or DDMaxfield@genesee.edu.

College announces spring offerings at Stuart Steiner Theatre

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee Center for the Arts at Genesee Community College is pleased to announce the calendar of spring events for its 20th season at the Stuart Steiner Theatre. The Center for the Arts is proud to bring in a jam-packed schedule with a variety of artists and productions to the community at large.

Live Performances in the Stuart Steiner Theatre:

"Extremities" by William Mastrisimone, staged by the Aegis Project of Buffalo, for one performance at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 16. The Aegis Project is an initiative to raise rape awareness through theatrical productions on college campuses throughout the region. Tickets are $3 for all ages and all proceeds go to the Aegis Project for local rape awareness projects. Please note this production is appropriate for ages 16 and over.

Hailed as "WNY's Father of Country Music," Ramblin' Lou brings his Family Band, to the Genesee Center for the Arts for an afternoon of classic country music beginning at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 19. Tickets are $10 adults, $8 seniors (55+), $5 students and GCC faculty/staff, $3 GCC students with valid ID and $2 discount for GCC alumni with alumni card.

Genesee's Forum Players present "God's Favorite," a Neil Simon comedy, at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, March 29 - 31, with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. on April 1. Directed by Maryanne Arena, this is a modern tale, loosely based on the Book of Job, in which God and Satan make a bet, and God puts his trust in Joe, a wealthy businessman living with his family in suburban Long Island, to keep his faith. God's messenger, sent to test Joe's faith, is a wisecracking guy from Queens. Simon poses questions about life, but never loses his sense of humor! Tickets are $8 adults, $5 seniors (55+), students, and GCC faculty/staff, $3 GCC students with valid ID. No children under the age of 5 permitted. Please note that this production is appropriate for ages 16 and over.

The Genesee Center for the Arts continues its commitment to introducing performing arts to children, families, and schools throughout the Western New York area with "The Princess and the Goblin" by Stuart Paterson, a magical tale of young Princess Irene finding the strength to take on the world. Packed with fun and adventure, it's a rich and magical play for the entire family! The Genesee Forum Players featuring GCC students as the cast and crew, and Norm Gayford, GCC English professor will be directing. Daytime performance dates are scheduled for Wednesday, April 18, Thursday, April 19 and Friday, April 20, with invitations sent to all the local schools. There will be one public performance at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 20. Tickets are $8 adults, $5 seniors (55+), students, and GCC faculty/staff, and $3 GCC students with valid ID and $2 discount for GCC alumni with alumni card. Children under the age of 12 free!

The Fine and Performing Arts Committee at the Genesee Center for the Arts is participating in March's Arts Awareness Week with two workshops that are free and open to the public. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 27 in the Forum of Batavia's main campus, local artists will be demonstrating origami, bookbinding, pottery, needle felting, painting, photography and more in hands-on workshops. On Thursday, March 29, Jeffrey Sweet will be presenting a workshop on playwriting, as well as doing a one-man performance of "You Only Shoot the Ones You Love." Please note that this short play is appropriate for ages 16 and over.

The Genesee Symphony Orchestra returns to Genesee Community College for its 64th season with one performance at the Stuart Steiner Theatre: "Musical Safari" at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 26. A second concert, "Musical Salute," is scheduled at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 29 at the Elba Central School auditorium. Tickets are $12 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $5 students (18 and under or GCC students with a valid ID) or $30 family (parent plus children 12 and under). For full schedule and tickets, visit the GSO at www.geneseesymphony.com

A special GCASA jazz event taking place at the Stuart Steiner Theatre will be the Glenn Miller Orchestra, with an opening act of the Genesee-Orleans All-Star Jazz Ensemble, at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 4. This is a fundraising event for GCASA, and tickets are $30 adults, $15 seniors (65+) and $15 students with ID. All tickets are general seating and expected to sell out early, so get your tickets soon at Roxy's Music Store and the GCASA office in Batavia. The Genesee Center for the Arts Box Office will also have tickets available, cash or check only for this event, but call ahead to check tickets availability.

The last event of the season is a collaborative event with the Genesee County Mental Health Association and Maryanne Arena, director of fine and performing arts at GCC. A one-act play by Marsha Norman " 'Night, Mother" will be performed at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 11. Starring Maryanne and Jaime Arena, it features a daughter, Jessie, and her mother, Thelma, in a story about suicide. For ticket prices and selling locations, visit GCMHA at www.gcmha.org. All proceeds will benefit GCMHA. Please note that this play is appropriate for ages 16 and over.

For general information, contact the Genesee Center for the Arts Box Office at 345-6814, or by email at boxoffice@genesee.edu. For door-to-door directions sent via email, visit www.genesee.edu.

Cuomo names Benjamin Bonarigo to GCC Board of Trustees

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo has named local attorney Benjamin J. Bonarigo Sr. as a member of the Genesee Community College Board of Trustees. He will serve a seven-year term.

Bonarigo holds an associate degree from GCC and is a member of the college's Class of 1979. Earlier this year, he was inducted into the college's Alumni Hall of Fame in recognition of his professional accomplishments and service to the community.

He is also a cum laude graduate of the University at Buffalo (1979), and holds the Juris Doctorate degree (1982) from the University at Buffalo. He lives in Batavia.

Since 1983, he has practiced law in the community as a self-employed general practice attorney. He has also served as City of Batavia Law Department director (2002-2008); Oakfield Village attorney (2001-2010); and Oakfield Central School District attorney (2002-2009).

Bonarigo has a long history of public service. He is currently a member of the Appellate Division, 4th Department Grievance Committee; Secretary of the Genesee County Bar Association; and member of the boards of Batavia Youth Football and Literacy Genesee/Orleans.

He is a former member of the Notre Dame High School Board of Trustees and Notre Dame High School Foundation Board of Directors. He is also an active member of numerous community organizations.

The 10 members of the Genesee Community College Board of Trustees are volunteers. Five members are appointed by the Genesee County Legislature; four by the governor; and one, a student trustee, selected by the student body.

Genesee Downs #7 Lakeland

By Andrew Crofts

A close loss to the Community College of Rhode Island, then ranked 8th in the country, in last weekend’s Cougar Holiday Classic tournament had the Genesee Community College men’s basketball team ready to host the #7 team in the country in Lakeland Community College on Saturday afternoon.

The Cougars saw the Lakers for the second time this season and jumped out to an early nine point lead. Genesee maintained the nine point advantage throughout the first half by scoring quickly in transition, avoiding the Lakers press defense. Kenton Chan-Man (Brooklyn, NY) scored 16 first half points for the Cougars who saw their lead vanish when Lakeland made a 10-0 run to close out the opening twenty minutes by causing turnovers with their press. Both teams were tied at 46 at the half.

The second half started much like the first as Genesee took an 8 point lead just three minutes in. Chan-Man helped the Cougars stay on top going four-of-six from three-point range. The Lakeland press once again allowed the Lakers to close the gap by turning turnovers into points and cutting a six point GCC lead down to one with less than two minutes to play. The Cougars hit four out of their last five free-throws to maintain the one point lead and came up with a game-winning defensive stop with five seconds to play to knock of the #7 Lakers, 89-88.

(#4 Tyshawn Ferguson scores in GCC's win over #7 Lakeland CC on Saturday afternoon)

Chan-Man finished with a game high 32 points and also grabbed five rebounds. Deylon Bovell (Brooklyn, NY) had a strong game with 17 points before fouling out late in the second half, and Tyshawn Ferguson (Chicago, IL) added 15 points and 6 boards.

Genesee improves their record to 6-5 overall and even the season series at 1-1 with Lakeland. They will resume play after the winter break on January 6th when the travel to Niagara College in Canada.

Lady Cougars fall in Overtime

By Andrew Crofts

Coming off of a win in the final game of last week’s Cougar Holiday Classic tournament, the Genesee Community College women’s basketball team dropped an 83-80 contest in overtime to Lakeland Community College on Saturday.

The Lady Cougars played well defensively to start the afternoon, causing two early shot clock violations and empty possessions for Lakeland Community College. A back and forth first half saw the game’s first significant run halfway through the opening twenty minutes when the Lady Lakers turned a 21-21 contest into a 33-21 lead within a span of three minutes. After a Genesee timeout, the Lady Cougars responded with a 10-0 run of their own to cut the Lakeland lead to two. Lakeland scored 11 of the last 13 points of the first half and took a 44-33 lead into the intermission.

Genesee closed the gap early and stayed within reach for the majority of the second half thanks to consistent play inside from Carrie Blunt (Syracuse, NY) and Janelle Long (Rochester, NY). The Lady Cougars took a one point, 68-67 lead when Blunt finished a lay-up and drew contact for a foul with two minutes left to play in regulation. Lakeland took the lead back and held a two point advantage with ten seconds to play when Kayla Golden (Lackawanna, NY) scored a lay up to even the score at 72 and send the game into overtime.

(#2 Kayla Golen dribbles past a defender in an overtime loss on Saturday afternoon)

Genesee took the lead early on in the extra session but struggled at the free-throw line allowing the Lady Lakers to take the lead and hang on for the win. GCC was led by Golden who finished with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Blunt also recorded a double-double ending the afternoon with 16 points and 17 rebounds. Jasmine Armstead (Rochester, NY) and Chyna Lennox (Moseley, VA) each added 11 points. Genesee drops to 4-11 on the season and will resume play after the winter break when they travel to Niagara College (Canada) on January 6th.

Lady Cougars win Tournament Finale

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College women’s basketball team snapped a nine game losing streak by beating the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) 67-40 in the final game of the Cougar Holiday Classic tournament on Sunday afternoon.

The Lady Cougars started strong in the opening half, jumping out to a 19-5 lead, and did not let up. Genesee took a 36-20 lead into the locker room at the half.

GCC stayed strong defensively allowing CCAC only seven points in the first ten minutes of the second half. The Lady Cougars never saw their lead drop below 16 in the second twenty minutes and they cruised to the 27 point victory, their first since November 8th.

(#23 Janelle Long scores two of her 16 points in GCC's win over CCAC)

The Cougars had a strong game from Freshmen Janelle Long (Rochester, NY – Eastridge HS) with 16 points and nine rebounds. Jasmine Armstead (Rochester, NY – Eastridge HS) also finished with 16 points and 2 assists. Armstead and Long were named to the All-Tournament Team. The Cougars are now 4-10 on the season and will take on the Lakeland CC Lakers at 1pm on Saturday December 17th at GCC.

Cougars Fall in Holiday Tournament Opener

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College Women’s Basketball team dropped their first game in the 2011 Holiday Classic with a 75-49 loss to the Green Knights of the Community College or Rhode Island (CCRI).

CCRI started the game on a 16-4 run and Cougars were unable to overcome the pressure put on by the Knights. CCRI had a lead as big as 20 just mid-way through the opening half of play.  Freshman Jahira Smith (Norwich, Conn) had a huge game for the Knights as she finished with27 points. Fellow Knight Cartrecia Ward (Boynton Beach, FL) came off the bench and chipped in 16 points  .

Leading the way for the Cougars was Carrie Blunt (Syracuse) with eight points and Jasmine Armstead (Rochester, NY-Eastridge) had six points for the home squad.

With the win, CCRI is 6-2 on the season and will take on the Niagara County Community College Thunderwolves at 11am Sunday while the Cougars (3-10) will take on Community College of Allegheny County –South at 3pm Sunday afternoon at the Anthony T Zambito Gymnasium on the Batavia campus of GCC.

 

 

The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Green Knights came into the nightcap of day one of the Cougar Holiday Classic at Genesee Community College Cougars and came out with a 76-70 victory over the host Cougars.

After going back and forth for the majority of the opening half, the eighth ranked Knights were able to pull out to a 41-29 lead at halftime.

The Cougars started to climb their way back into the game as they trailed by eight early on in the second half. GCC continued to dwindle the Knights lead but CCRI continued to answer every call the Cougars made. However with less than six minutes remaining in regulation, the Cougars were able to come back to tie the score at 61.

Both teams went back and forth for the remainder of the game and CCRI sealed the deal by hitting foul shots down the stretch for their 10th win on the season.

The Cougars were led offensively by Kenton Chan Man (Brooklyn, NY) with 18 points, two rebounds and two assists. Dijon Wright (Philadelphia, PA) had 12 points and 11 rebounds for the host Cougars, who drop to .500 on the season with a record of 5-5.

The Knights were led offensively by Desmond Williams with 17 points and Anthony Henry had a double –double with 11 points and 12 rebounds for CCRI.

New media specialist at GCC earns distinguished 'Accreditation in Public Relations'

By Billie Owens

Kevin Manne, new media specialist at Genesee Community College has successfully completed the Examination for Accreditation in Public Relations, entitling him to use the APR professional designation. He was recently award the designation after completing the challenging accreditation process and exam.

The accreditation program aims to improve the practice of public relations by assessing competence in 60 areas of knowledge, skills and abilities associated with the profession. The examination is designed for public relations professionals with five to seven years of job experience and/or a bachelor's degree in a communication field.

Candidates who successfully complete the rigorous process -- including presenting their portfolio to a Readiness Review panel of three peers and sitting for a computer-based examination -- are granted the APR.

"When I was a student at Buffalo State, one of my professors brought an APR into class to discuss the benefits of accreditation," Manne said. "Since then, earning the APR is something I've strived for to demonstrate my commitment to the profession and to its ethical practice."

At GCC, Manne leads communication efforts across social media, blogging, web and other emerging mediums. He previously served as communications and public relations specialist at Catholic Charities of Buffalo.

Manne earned his associate degree from Genesee Community College and graduated magna cum laude from Buffalo State College with a bachelor's degree in public communication.

He serves as secretary on the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Buffalo Niagara Chapter Board of Directors and on the Buffalo State College Alumni Association Communication Committee. He has received multiple awards from PRSA Buffalo Niagara and the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations for his work in social media and public relations.

Cougars Blow Out Medaille

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College men’s basketball team dominated the Medaille junior varsity team on Thursday night, defeating the Mavericks 118-59.

The Cougars were successful against the Medaille press all night, quickly transitioning to the offensive end of the floor and working the ball inside. GCC scored 40 of their 54 first half points from inside the paint, and shot better than 61% from the field. Terryl Coombs (Brooklyn, NY) scored 15 of his game high 23 points in the first twenty minutes, and Deylon Bovell (Brooklyn, NY) added 13 first half points. Despite being effective on offense, the Cougar defense allowed Medaille 38 first half points on 13 of 37 shooting.

(#10 Terryl Coombs dunks in blowout win over Medaille)

GCC allowed the Mavericks to within 14 points early on in the second half before going on a 37-3 run to take control of the game. Coombs tallied the game’s only double-double with 23 points and 11 rebounds. David Andrews (Bronx, NY) finished the night with 14 points and 9 rebounds, and Kenton Chan-Man (Brooklyn, NY) added 15 points.

Genesee out-rebounded Medaille 62-31 on the night and held the Mavericks to just six second half field goals. Thursday marks the first time GCC has gone over 100 points in a game so far this season.

The Cougars will travel to Mohawk Valley Community College for their next contest on Saturday afternoon at 3pm.

Photos: Fun with fog

By Howard B. Owens

We don't get enough fog in Batavia. Fog creates great opportunities for light and shadow and atmosphere, which photographers love. After leaving Genesee Community College this evening, I decided I really need to take some time to have some fun with fog.

Besides the GCC picture above, we have a picture of Masse Gateway and the Upton Monument.

Parents of Williamsville teen who took his own life share anti-bullying message at GCC

By Howard B. Owens

Jim and Tracy Rodemeyer remember their son's smile.

"He was developing such a sarcastic nature," said Tracy when asked about a memory of their 14-year-old son who took his own life after prolonged bullying from classmates. "He was becoming so funny. His smile. If we could just see his smile one more time."

The Rodemeyers were at Genesee Community College on Tuesday night to take part in a panel discussion about bullying.

The forum was sponsored by the Gay/Straight Alliance and The Christian Students Alliance.

"Bullying hurts everyone," said Candice Faulring, the faculty member who helped organize the event (pictured below). "The GSA and the CSU may disagree on a lot, but we realize that some issues are much bigger than our individual points of view and require that we take action and find solutions together."

Prior to the event, students were asked to write on pieces of paper hateful things that have been said to them and the answers ranged from "You're a stupid dyke." to "Only idiots believe in God."

It's the same sort of torture Jamey Rodemeyer faced in the months and years leading up to his suicide and it's the kind of cruelty that's got to stop, even if it takes tougher laws to punish bullies, the Rodemeyers said.

They're planning on approaching their Albany representatives to discuss tougher anti-bullying and harassment laws. But meanwhile, they said, everybody has a role in helping to stop bullying, from parents who need to help their children with self-esteem to the police who investigate the crimes.

"You've got to be a pain (if you're a parent)," said Jim Rodemeyer. "Complain. Don't let it go. Don't pass it off. You've got to complain and make a fuss. If you don't, you might wind up in our situation."

"There's got to be a stop to this," Tracy added. "These kids need to realize that they have a right to be on this planet as much as the person next to them, even if they're different, because everybody is different in their own way."

Dr. Alfred C. O'Connell, founding president of GCC, dies

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Dr. Alfred C. O'Connell, Genesee Community College's first president, died Nov. 11 in North Carolina. He was 83 years old.

Genesee's first board of trustees recruited Dr. O'Connell in 1966 to organize the new college which had been approved by Genesee County voters in a November 1965 referendum. At that time, Dr. O'Connell was serving as president of Harford Community College in Maryland.

Dr. O'Connell served from February, 1967 to August, 1970. He was widely credited with recruiting a distinguished faculty, and setting high standards for academic programs and college operations.

Dr. James M. Sunser, current president, called Dr. O'Connell a "pioneer" in the community college movement.

"Alfred O'Connell had a vision of the comprehensive community college in the 1960s," Dr. Sunser said. "He saw Genesee Community College, and community colleges in general, as the nation's best way to provide higher education access to coming generations of students.

"Early on, he recognized that Genesee Community College could become a vibrant force for community transformation, and he worked tirelessly to make Genesee Community College part of the fabric of our local communities.

"Today, Genesee Community College is known for excellence and innovation across the United States. Alfred O'Connell laid the early groundwork for Genesee's reputation. Our success today is in no small measure due to his vision and commitment."

Dr. O'Connell began his career as a secondary school teacher, and held English and Social Studies teaching positions at Wethersfield (Conn.) High School and Cushing Academy, in Ashburnham, Mass. He served as assistant professor of History at Auburn (now Cayuga) Community College, chair of the History Department at Grosse Point University (Mich.), and director of the Evening Division of Baltimore (Md.) Junior College prior to assuming the presidency of Harford.

He also built a reputation as a coach, and over the course of his teaching career, coached ice hockey, baseball and football.

After leaving Genesee, Dr. O'Connell served as state director for Community Colleges for Maryland and later returned to serve as president of Harford Community College.

Dr. O'Connell earned a bachelor's degree in History from the University of Hartford (Conn.); a master's degree in Education from the University of Hartford; a master's degree in History from Trinity College (Conn.); and a doctoral degree in Education from Columbia University.

He was a veteran of both World War II and the Korean conflict. Dr. O'Connell's wife died only days before his own death. Dr. and Mrs. O'Connell were parents of two children. The board of trustees named the college library in his honor in 1972.

GCC Eliminated from Nationals

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College women’s volleyball team dropped their consolation round match to Iowa Central Community College in three sets on Friday afternoon and have been eliminated from the NJCAA Division II National Tournament.

After falling behind early in the first set, the Lady Cougars came back to win four straight points and take a 4-2 lead. GCC held its largest lead at 7-3 before Iowa Central, ranked #10 in the country, took control. Deliane Lessard (Rochester, NY) made one last push for Genesee in the first set, serving to three straight points to get back within four at 16-12, but the Lady Tritons held off GCC’s advance and took the set 25-19.

In the second set, both teams went back and forth to start and were even at 17 before Iowa Central won eight of the last nine points to win the set 25-18.

Down two sets to none, Genesee battled throughout the third set. Carrie Blunt (Syracuse, NY) earned a kill and a block in succession to draw GCC within two at 13-11. Sabrina Wilhoite (Letchworth, NY) blocked a spike attempt at the net, putting a halt to a three point run from Iowa Central and inching GCC within two at 19-17. The Lady Tritons would win six of the final seven points however, and took the third set 25-18 and the match three sets to none.

Genesee ends the season with a 22-21 record, earning the District L and a Division II Region III titles in the process.

GCC Sails Past Pitt-Titusville

By Andrew Crofts

The Genesee Community College men’s basketball team sailed past Pittsburgh-Titusville on Thursday night, defeating the Panthers 94-62.

A 10-0 run to start the game set the tempo for the Cougars who shot better than 60 percent from the floor in the opening twenty minutes. Deylon Bovell (Brooklyn, NY) Kevin Nascimento (New York, NY) and Kenton Chan-Man (Brooklyn, NY) each reached double figures in scoring by halftime for GCC, who were five of eight as a team from beyond the arc. The Cougars held a 51-28 lead at the half.

(#35 Dijon Wright scores a second half basket in a 94-62 win over Pitt-Titusville)

 

Dijon Wright (Philadelphia, PA) scored all ten of his points in the second half as Genesee kept up their momentum and never saw their lead drop below 22 points. Chan-Man led all scorers with 23 points and he also collected 6 rebounds. Bovell finished with 20 points and 8 rebounds, Wright earned a double-double with 10 points and 11 boards and Nascimento and Michael Glenn (Fairport, NY) each added 14 points.

Genesee improves to 3-3 on the season and will not take the floor again until December 1st when they host the junior varsity team from Medaille College at 7pm

Authentically Local