GCC

Press release:

Perpetually striving for her own "Personal Best," Williamsville resident Susan Makai will share her story Wednesday, March 17, at 1:30 p.m. on Genesee Community College's Fashion Episode 21:1.

For 32 years Makai has owned and operated Personal Best, an internationally known image and performing school that also teaches etiquette, communication and business protocol to hundreds of companies, colleges and high schools throughout New York State.

As part of Genesee Community College's Fashion Program, Makai will appear via Zoom on a special Fashion Episode 21:1 to tell her story and inspire the audience to keep reaching for their personal best.

Join the FREE, virtual presentation to hear about how her education, her upbringing and her experiences in life drove her to create Personal Best and what it has meant for her career -- and those who have studied with her.

With just one physical classroom, but broadcasting online to hundreds of pupils around the state, Personal Best has received numerous "outstanding training" awards and has been featured in books, magazines and articles about the talent and modeling industry. Perhaps most rewardingly, Makai's students have been recognized with hundreds of awards at national acting and modeling competitions and some have gone onto to successful careers in fashion modeling, acting, and television.

In addition to her successful business, Makai has served on business and fashion advisory boards for several educational institutions, including Genesee Community College. Most recently she was elected to the national board for PRIMA, an association for talent managers and school directors. Many recall Makai from her longtime television fashion commentator role on "AM Buffalo," Channel 7 WKBW's morning program, or as weather reporter and movie host at local CBS, NBC and FOX affiliates.

Makai, who grew up in White Plains, came to Western New York to attend college where she earned an undergraduate teaching degree in Speech-English with a minor in Theater and a master's degree in Education. In addition, Makai is a graduate of the University of Buffalo's Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership.

To watch Fashion Episode 21:1 with Susan Makai, visit on Zoom here at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 17.

Fashion Episodes are a special collection of opportunities made available by the Fashion Program at Genesee Community College. The Fashion Program has always been a flagship for the college. The knowledge and experience of the faculty and their dedication to their students has produced quality and professional workplace candidates and well-prepared transfer students since the program's inception more than 40 years ago.

GCC is proud to maintain several articulation agreements tailored specifically to support the career track of students in the Fashion Programs. GCC students who earn a Fashion Business: Merchandising A.A.S. can seamlessly transfer to LIM to complete their B.B.A. in Fashion Merchandising, Visual Merchandising, Marketing or Management; or to Cazenovia College's Fashion Merchandising B.P.S. program.

In addition, GCC's Fashion Business: Fashion Design A.A.S. students can transfer to Cazenovia's Fashion Design B.F.A. degree program. Anyone interested in taking advantage of these transfer opportunities through GCC is encouraged to contact GCC's Student Success Center at (585) 345-6805 or via email at SSC@genesee.edu.

Press release:

Genesee Community College Forum Players and guest alumni will broadcast their performance of Anna Deavere Smith's "Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992" online for FREE today and tomorrow ONLY!

Anyone, anywhere, will be able to view this moving performance any time between now and 11:59 p.m. Saturday, March 6 by clicking on this link.

Due to the graphic and violent video footage, racial slurs and strong mature language used in this production, viewer and parental discretion is advised.

After interviewing more than 300 individuals who were witness to the riots in Los Angeles that erupted following the acquittal of the police officers charged with assaulting Rodney King 30 years ago, Smith delicately compiled those raw experiences into a series of powerful monologues that bring a range of perspectives into focus.

"Watching the evening news recently and seeing story after story of the violence taking place all around us, I couldn't help but feel like it was all too familiar," said Director of Fine Arts Maryanne Arena. "I wanted to do something to help our community listen to each other and learn from our past.

"Knowing so many of our students are learning remotely and feeling the heaviness of the anniversary of Rodney King's arrest approaching, this piece is the perfect selection."

As a special interest project, six talented GCC alumni have returned to participate in this performance:

• Alex Grayson, Class of 2011
• Sania Hyatt, Class of 2015
• Tori Ogunsanya, Class of 2019
• Maria Albanese, Class of 2016
• Antonio Ware, Class of 2009
• Shellene Bailey, Class of 2010

Also making a special appearance is local performer, Riley Asher Stalbaum, professional trainer at the Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel.

What: GCC Announces FREE, ONLINE Performance of "Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992" - Available to ALL via YouTube!

When: LIMITED TIME - Today and Tomorrow ONLY - March 5 and 6

Where: Broadcast ONLINE on YouTube for FREE.

Who: All are invited! Note: This production contains violent graphic video, strong racial slurs and mature language.

"Can we all get along?" -- Rodney King

Submitted photo and press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation and Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble Honorary Chairperson Gina G. Giese ('91) have confirmed the Sixth Annual Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble will take place on Monday, July 19, at Stafford Country Club in Stafford.

Giese, a Batavia resident, earned an associate degree in Business and Marketing from GCC in 1991, a bachelor's degree in the same from Buffalo State College and an MBA from Canisius College. She has spent her career as a local business leader. She is currently retail regional manager, administrative vice president at M&T Bank in Batavia, where she started her career with the bank 32 years ago.

A devoted volunteer and member of GCC's Alumni Council since 2011, Giese has served on many committees including the Cougar Classic and GCC Alumni Panel Series. She and her husband, Walter, are golfers and have also volunteered on the PGA Tour.

"I am sincerely grateful to Gina for serving as chair for the sixth annual Cougar Classic," said Executive Director of the GCC Foundation, Justin Johnston. "In my time at GCC, I've enjoyed collaborating with her on our Alumni Council. Gina's leadership is vital to so many areas of GCC, and I look forward to working with her on this important initiative to raise scholarship funds for our GCC students."

The Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble allows up to 36 foursomes for the 18-hole event at the esteemed Stafford Country Club. Registration includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, all beer and nonalcoholic beverages during play, lunch and dinner with a cash bar, and much more!

Most importantly, all proceeds from the Cougar Classic support GCC student scholarship programs, making higher education possible for deserving students in our communities.

Businesses and individuals looking to take advantage of this event's advertising opportunities and lock in sponsorship levels are encouraged to act early and contact Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs Jennifer Wakefield directly at (585) 343-0055, ext. 6265, or via email at jgwakefield@genesee.edu.

Exciting new event details, registration and sponsorship forms will be available here.

Photo from a previous Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble, from left: Erik Fix, Samantha Schafer, Gina Geise and Walter Szczesny.

Submitted photo and press release:

Genesee Community College has proudly named Deborah Penoyer, MS, RN as the new Nursing Program Director at its Antoinette Marchese Clancy School of Nursing.

Penoyer, of Rochester, took on the position after her predecessor Laurel Sanger retired in late 2020.

Having graduated its 50th class of nurses in 2020, the Nursing Program at GCC has been a flagship program for the College since its inception.

With constantly evolving demands in the healthcare field, this high-tech and high-demand program accepts an exclusive group of just 96 students every year and boasts a 95-percent job-placement rate upon graduation.

"I truly appreciate the quality of pedagogies I saw at GCC and am excited to be part of them," Penoyer said. "It's always been my priority to promote respect for differences and to embrace cultural competence for the value they bring to the learning experience.

"In the face of uncertainty, it is ever more important to be agile, provide flexible learning opportunities and to remain steadfast in ensuring student success. I have already seen those practices succeeding at GCC and look forward to building upon them."

The Nursing Program at GCC is designed to benefit students of all ages and all stages of life. With programs to bridge Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) into Registered Nurses (RNs) and a traditional RN track, students can learn, apply skills, and grow into their careers.

These elite programs require students to participate in an Information Session before beginning. Such sessions are held online and those interested in a rewarding career in nursing or healthcare are encouraged to sign up now here.

"It is the care and attention to details that the department faculty and staff have put into the curriculum and these Information Sessions that make our program and therefore our students so successful," Penoyer added.

Penoyer dedicated 17 years to child and adolescent care at Golisano Children's Hospital at Strong Memorial Hospital. Following her passion for educating and uniting others, she took on the additional role of Nurse Educator and Training Center Coordinator where she got to develop nursing practice policies, procedures and protocols as well as onboard new nurses and technicians at Strong.

In 2010, Penoyer's desire to lead and to contribute to the future of the nursing industry led her to SUNY Geneseo where she served as Nurse Manager in College Health for 10 years before returning to a large health system, Rochester Regional Health's Primary Care and Ambulatory Specialty Institute where she was responsible for Operational Excellence and Compliance for Adult and Geriatric Services.

Penoyer earned a Master of Science, Leadership in Health Care Systems, Health Promotion, Education and Technology from the University of Rochester's School of Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Roberts Wesleyan College and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing from Monroe Community College.

Press release:

"I don't know what I want to do, what would I major in?" quoted Lindsay Gerhardt, assistant dean of admissions and recruitment at Genesee Community College. "My recruiting team hears it all the time when we ask someone why they didn't enroll for classes. Sometimes, people just need more."

So, the Admissions team decided to do more.

Major Exploration Days at Genesee Community College were introduced as a way for interested individuals to learn exactly what the College's programs are all about. Taking it a step further, the faculty members from the various programs participate in these sessions so potential students learn what courses they would take, hear about the associated field experiences that are available and develop a clear picture of what their semester could look like!

In addition, these sessions provide opportunities for the students (and any friends or family members who are listening in) to hear about the transfer opportunities GCC has to offer specific to these areas of study. Naturally, Major Exploration Days also include discussions about the vast array of careers and jobs these programs prepare students for.

Each session has been designed to cover a group of academic programs and majors that tend to have some common interest amongst students and some potential career overlap. All of these sessions are open to anyone who is interested in attending GCC! The sessions are free and offered completely online for maximum convenience.

Anyone can attend any or all of these sessions based on the programs of interest:

• Thursday, Jan. 21 will cover Business & Commerce programs, Information Technology degrees and certificates, and a variety of Science & Technology programs! Specific programs include: Accounting, Biotechnology, Business Administration, CIS, CSN, Computerized Drafting and Design, Computer Repair, Fashion, Helpdesk Support, Medical Administrative Assistant, Tourism, Hospitality Event Management, and Web Design.
• Thursday, Feb. 4 will explore programs in Education, Human Services, Law and Criminal Justice! Specific programs include: Alcohol & Substance Abuse Studies, Childcare, Corrections, Developmental Disabilities Studies, Economic Crime Investigation, Forensics, Gerontology, Homeland Security, Paralegal Studies, Policing, Teacher Assistant, and a Teacher Education Transfer Program.
• Thursday, Feb. 25 focuses on Creative Arts, Health & Physical Education and will also include the vast opportunities available under the Liberal Arts umbrella! Specific programs include: Biology, Chemistry, Communication & Media Arts, Digital Art, English, Fine Arts, Fitness & Rec: Personal Trainer, History, Mathematics, Physical Education Studies, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Spanish, Sports Management Studies, Sociology, and Theatre Arts. If you have not yet selected a specific major, this is the session for you!

GCC recommends anyone considering an education or a career in any of these fields to register for any of these sessions by clicking here; emailing admissions@genesee.edu; or calling (585) 345-6800.

Nya Thomas, softball standout at Notre Dame High School, has signed with Genesee Community College. Thomas is the daughter of Otis and Nicole Thomas.

Photo*: Teagyn Thomas, Nya Thomas, Nicole Thomas, Gunnar Thomas; Back row. JC Kabel Edge (her coach on her travel team), and Mike Rapone, ND's athletic director.

*Otis Thomas was in quarantine and couldn't attend the signing.

Submitted photo and information.

Press release:

Genesee Community College's BEST Center (Business Employee Skills Training) has been awarded the New York College Apprenticeship Network (NYCAN) grant. The award is perfectly timed with the celebration of the U.S. Department of Labor's sixth annual National Apprenticeship Week which runs November 8 to 14, 2020.

The NYCAN grant which totals $15,000 is a result of a partnership between The State University of New York (SUNY) and the New York State Department of Labor and is designed to focus on advanced manufacturing.

"As the BEST Center's primary focus is employee development and skills training, we are highly attuned to the workforce needs of our communities," said Director of the BEST Center John McGowan, Ph.D. "The programs we offer are specifically designed to grow highly skilled and employable personnel to ensure the economic health of our region."

Genesee Community College's BEST Center has begun to engage small, medium, and large employers to secure paid apprenticeships in high demand, competitive wage occupations throughout Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, and -- through online capabilities -- far beyond!

"The NYCAN grant allows us to support employers with Registered Apprenticeship programs, as well as assist current and future Registered Apprentices," McGowan said.

New York State has provided $9 million of funding for SUNY community colleges, to create one of the largest statewide public/private partnership apprenticeship programs in the country.

At Genesee Community College, the BEST Center's programs house the expertise and support that identify workforce needs, determine skills gaps, and engage employer sponsors to expand apprenticeships throughout the Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, and far beyond.

The SUNY Apprenticeship Program will assist in developing 2,000 pre-apprentices and Registered Apprentices over four to six-years in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, information technology/cybersecurity/ artificial intelligence and more.

Press release:

Veterans Day, like so many other important events in 2020 will look a little different this year. But the Adult Educational Opportunities Center (AEOC) at Genesee Community College refused to let a global health pandemic stand in the way of honoring this country's veterans.

Through the hard work and collaboration of the College's staff and faculty and the dedicated team at the AEOC, a special Virtual Veterans Day Celebration has been created and is now live online at www.genesee.edu/veterans-day for all to see.

The site will remain live throughout Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11.

"While we will miss the ability to shake our Veterans' hands and thank them face to face, we are very excited to be able to expand our reach and be able to share this with those who have been unable to attend our events in the past," said AEOC Director Staci Williams.

GCC is also hosting an online, customizable Open House on Nov. 11 where potential students and families can participate in sessions of their choice. Details on how to participate are available at GCC's Virtual Open House.

What: GCC's Veterans Day Celebration Website is Live!

When: NOW!

Where: online at   www.genesee.edu/veterans-day

Who: All are invited to join in honoring our veterans.

Press release: 

Everyone interested in attending Genesee Community College is encouraged to register and select which sessions best fit their own unique needs. Choose to hear the Financial Aid information or join later to meet key faculty and Athletics team coaches.

GCC is taking full advantage of the online environment to allow potential students and their families to zoom in and out of the sessions they choose. The registration form includes a complete agenda for selection.

Taking place completely online, Open House will begin at 9:30 a.m. with information about the Admissions process, Financial Aid, Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and services specifically designed to support homeschooled students and adultlearners. Around 11 a.m.participants will get to hear about the role of GCC's Student Success Coaches and Campus Center Advisors and get some expert help figuring out if Online Learning is right for you.

Then, at noon, the Academic breakout sessions will give all participants a chance to meet faculty from their intended major, hear about program expectations and technology associated with the program.

After the breakouts, Transfer and Career Services will explain how they help students maximize their time and plan for the future they want. The Learning Center -- which provides FREE tutoring to GCC students, the Counseling, and Access and Accommodations offices will also present the plethora of services they provide to help ensure student success.

Then, at 1:30 p.m. listen in to the Student Experience Panel as they discuss "What is there to do at GCC?" and hear all about Living on Campus at College Village. Wrapping up the event, at 2:30 p.m. join the rest of the Cougar Pride in an informative Athletics presentation.

For more information contact GCC's Admissions Office at 1-866-CALL-GCC or by email at Admissions@genesee.edu.

What: Customize Your Experience at GCC's Virtual Open House

When: Wednesday, Nov. 11, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Where: Register and Choose Sessions to Attend at: www.genesee.edu/VisitGCC

Who: Students and Families of All Ages Interested in Attending GCC!

Background: For maximum convenience, effectiveness, and safety, Genesee Community College will host a customizable Virtual Open House on Wednesday, Nov. 11.

Press release:

For more than 20 years, Genesee Community College has invited the public to its Main Campus in Batavia on Veterans Day for two very important events -- welcoming potential new students with a virtual Academic Open House and honoring veterans for their service to our country with a Veterans Day Ceremony.

However, due to the current pandemic-related mandates and concerns for the health and safety of the veterans in our community, the Adult Educational Opportunities Center (AEOC) and other staff and faculty at GCC have collaborated to prepare a special honor celebration to make sure our veterans know that nothing would stop the College from recognizing their dedication, their service and their sacrifices.

This year the AEOC and GCC have prepared a video recognition that will be accessible to all on GCC's website at any time on Wednesday, Nov. 11.

"Prerecording the pieces of the event not only allowed us to keep everyone safe and healthy during the process, but gave us the luxury of editing," said Director of the AEOC Staci Williams. "Viewers will have much more regulated volume than you sometimes have attending a live event. Also, everyone has the best seat in the house."

The entire event will be posted to GCC's website so veterans, their families and all community members can watch whenever they choose, as many times as they like and from anywhere!

"While we will miss the ability to shake our veterans' hands and thank them face to face, we are very excited to be able to expand our reach and be able to share this with those who have been unable to attend our events in the past," added Williams.

In addition, potential students of all ages and their families are strongly encouraged to register and join GCC's Virtual Open House also on Nov. 11 beginning at 9:30 a.m., which includes a schedule of virtual presentations and Q&A sessions.

Open House begins with information about the Admissions process, Financial Aid, Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and services specifically designed to support Home Schooled students and Adult Learners.

Around 11 a.m. participants will get to hear about the role of GCC's Student Success Coaches and Campus Center Advisors and get some expert help figuring out if Online Learning is right for you. 

Then, at noon, the Academic breakout sessions will give all participants a chance to meet faculty from their intended major, hear about program expectations and technology associated with the program.

After the breakouts, Transfer and Career Services will explain how they help students maximize their time and plan for the future they want. The Learning Center -- which provides FREE tutoring to GCC students, the Counseling, and Access and Accommodations offices will also present the plethora of services they provide to help ensure student success.

Then, at 1:30 p.m. listen in to the Student Experience Panel as they discuss "What is there to do at GCC?" and hear all about Living on Campus at College Village. Wrapping up the event, at 2:30 p.m. join the rest of the Cougar Pride in an informative Athletics presentation.

Online registration for the Open House is the best way to reserve a seat for the opportunity to explore GCC. The registration form includes the complete Open House schedule.

With more than 60 affordable degree and certificate programs, online courses, Hyflex learning opportunities and seven campus locations, GCC makes it possible for anyone to achieve higher education dreams. Please email admissions@genesee.edu or call (585) 345-6800 with any questions regarding Open House.

For more information or photographs contact Vice President, Development and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

Press release:

In just a few weeks, on Monday, Oct. 26, faculty at Genesee Community College will start seven-week session classes; the last session of the Fall 2020 semester.

These hand-selected courses cover all of the content included in a full semester-long course over a drastically accelerated timeline and delivered through completely remote and online modalities. 

The courses offered during this unique session are designed to help students to meet their general education and program course requirements on time or ahead of schedule. For added convenience and in conjunction with the current pandemic-related guidance, all seven-week session classes are offered completely online. To apply, visit here.

Both College Composition (ENG101) and Composition in the Natural and Social Sciences (ENG102) are being offered, which greatly helps those students who were unable to take these courses in earlier semesters.

In total, this session offers courses that cover five different General Education categories for students.

There are also a number of courses specific to a variety of majors but that also could serve as electives for others. Perhaps two of the most widely applicable options include Principles of Business (BUS101) and Introduction to Computers (CIS102) which are also both starting Oct. 26.

Of particular interest to those future Fashion Designers, Merchandisers, and others pursuing a future in fashion, courses like Principles of Fashion Merchandising (FBM101) and of Textiles (FBM115) are available at this time.

To participate in GCC's next online Instant Admit Days on either Oct. 8 and 13, register here.

In addition, GCC will host virtual Open House sessions on Oct. 17 and Nov. 11 and the College's 360 Virtual Tour is always available!

For more information or photographs contact Vice President, Development and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu

Submitted photo and press release:

Eleven years ago, Nicole Davis (top photo), CEO, designer and Buffalo native, created Franci Jewelry from her kitchen table. Since then, her extensive collections have been featured in prominent fashion weeks around the world including New York, Los Angeles and Paris, worn by celebrity clientele and also published in several national and international magazines, which includes the likes of Vogue Italia.

On Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 11:30 a.m. Davis will share her story virtually through GCC's Fashion Episodes. To watch Fashion Episode 20:1 Franci Jewelry with Nicole Davis, visit https://zoom.us/j/4147496187

All are invited to hear this self-proclaimed "mompreneur" describe the growth of her business, the importance of understanding one's target markets and making intentional, appropriate business decisions that match that target market.

This episode is the first of its kind made available by the Fashion Program at Genesee Community College. The Fashion Program has always been a flagship for the college. The knowledge and experience of the faculty and their dedication to their students has produced quality and professional workplace candidates and well-prepared transfer students since the program's inception more than 40 years ago.

Just last year, GCC renewed its articulation agreement with LIM for students in the Fashion Business: Merchandising A.A.S. program. Students who complete the track and degree requirements can seamlessly transfer to LIM to complete their B.B.A. in Fashion Merchandising, Visual Merchandising, Marketing or Management.

In addition, GCC is very excited to announce a new articulation agreement with Cazenovia College. This agreement provides a seamless transfer opportunity for GCC's Fashion Business: Merchandising A.A.S. students to Cazenovia's Fashion Merchandising B.P.S. and for GCC's Fashion Business: Fashion Design A.A.S. students to Cazenovia's Fashion Design B.F.A. degree program.

Anyone interested in taking advantage of these transfer opportunities through GCC is encouraged to contact GCC's Student Success Center at (585) 345-6805 or via email at SSC@genesee.edu.

Press release:

Genesee Community College will host two virtual Open House events this fall for students and families to learn all about what the College has to offer!

The first event will take place online from 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, where participants will be able to listen to and watch presentations from all types of areas of the College including various Academic Departments, the Admissions team, Athletics, Financial Aid, Student Success, Student Engagement and Inclusion, and more!

These special Virtual Open House events will also give virtual attendees an opportunity to ask questions and get answers! A complete schedule of the virtual event presentations is available on the registration page for each event date.

Register now at www.genesee.edu/VisitGCC to attend either GCC Fall Virtual Open House on Saturday, Oct. 17 or Wednesday, Nov. 11.

For more information contact GCC's Admissions Office at 1-866-CALL-GCC or by email at Admissions@genesee.edu.

When: Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. and Wednesday, Nov. 11 from 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Where: Register to attend at www.genesee.edu/VisitGCC

Who: Anyone interested in attending GCC!

Submitted photo and press release:

Genesee Community College Associate Professor of History, Derek D. Maxfield (inset photo, left) will be on C-SPAN at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12, sharing what his research has uncovered about the excruciating conditions at a POW camp in Elmira.

Maxfield became an expert on the subject while writing his first book, "HELLMIRA: The Union's Most Infamous Civil War Prison Camp -- Elmira, NY" which explores this notorious time period in the history of Elmira.

Elmira is the largest city and the county seat of Chemung County. "The Queen City" was incorporated in 1864. By the late 19th century, it was a major transportation hub, connecting commercial centers in Rochester and Buffalo with Albany and New York City.

In "HELLMIRA: The Union's Most Infamous Civil War Prison Camp -- Elmira, NY" Maxfield contextualizes the rise of prison camps during the Civil War, explores the failed exchange of prisoners, and tells the tale of the creation and evolution of the prison camp in Elmira.

Long called by some the "Andersonville of the North," the prisoner of war camp in Elmira is remembered as the most notorious of all Union-run POW camps. It existed for only a year -- from the summer of 1864 to July 1865. But in that time, and for long after, it became darkly emblematic of man's inhumanity to man. Confederate prisoners called it "Hellmira."

In the end, Maxfield suggests that it is time to move on from the blame game and see prisoner of war camps -- North and South -- as a great humanitarian failure.

"HELLMIRA: The Union's Most Infamous Civil War Prison Camp -- Elmira, NY" is available through Amazon, Savas Beatie -- and was released in July as an audio book as well.

Always interested in collaboration, Maxfield partnered with GCC's Associate Professor of English Michael Gosselin who wrote an essay on Mark Twain as an appendix to the book.

The essay, called "A Foretaste of Heaven: How Elmira Gave the World Mark Twain" is about Samuel Clemen's summer home at Quarry Farm in Elmira, where he wrote many of his most famous works.

Maxfield's "Hellmira" also features a variety of photos and images contributed by GCC's Professor of English, Tracy Ford.

Since joining Genesee Community College in 2009, Maxfield has been actively involved in GCC's campus community and dedicated to providing students with an exceptional learning experience. Described by many as a gifted storyteller, Maxfield has a way of reaching students in the classroom that is memorable.

He incorporates applied learning, which gets his students beyond the classroom and experiencing the preservation of history on the ground, has created unique and engaging assignments, created new courses, and coordinates the GCC History Club's Historical Horizons Lecture Series which brings history to life for students and the College community.

Maxfield was awarded a "SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching" in 2019, holds an M.A. in History from Villanova University and a B.A. in History from SUNY Cortland.

He currently resides in Churchville.

A book publication reception is being held at Roman's restaurant in Downtown Batavia from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12. Roman's is located at 59 Main St.

All are welcome to come and meet Maxfield, purchase a copy of "HELLMIRA: The Union's Most Infamous Civil War Prison Camp - Elmira, NY" ($14) and even have it signed! Masks are required and social distancing guidelines will be enforced.

The publication of this book marks the second time Maxfield has appeared in GCC's Recognition Matters series. Officials at GCC have embraced this series as a way to acknowledge not only the achievement, but also the high quality of the College's recognized faculty, staff and students.

Submitted photos and press release:

Seven members of the Genesee Community College team have been recognized by the State University of New York for outstanding contributions to their profession, the campus and the community.

The SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence is given in recognition of consistently superior professional achievement and encourages the ongoing pursuit of excellence.

The following faculty and staff members earned SUNY Chancellor's Awards for 2019-2020.

GCC is proud to announce Carolyn Caccamise and Kari Heidemann have received the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching, which recognizes consistently superior teaching at the graduate, undergraduate or professional level of the highest quality. To say that Caccamise has been an integral part of GCC's veterinary program would be an understatement. Director and Associate Professor of the College's Veterinary Technology program, Caccamise played an integral role in building the program to what it is since she started as an adjunct instructor in 2011.

Armed with a bachelor's from Eisenhower College and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine and extensive ongoing learning, Caccamise maintains veterinary practices which helps ensure her students are at the cutting edge of practical learning and application. Caccamise resides in Alexander.

Heidemann has been an instructor of Human Services at GCC since 2006 and began teaching full-time in 2016 when she also began coordinating the program's internships, advisory board, scholarship opportunities and advising the Human Services Student Club. Heidemann graduated Summa Cum Laude from Niagara University with a bachelor's degree, earned a master's from SUNY Brockport and received a NISOD (National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development for community and technical colleges) Award. Heidemann resides in Barker.

The SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching recognizes consistently superior teaching at the graduate, undergraduate or professional level of the highest quality. This honor was earned by Adjunct Instructor Ruth Rigerman. Rigerman has taught math courses at GCC for nearly 40 years. She received the NISOD Award for Excellence in Teaching to Adjunct Faculty in 1993, 1998 and 2017. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BS in Education, Mathematics from SUNY Brockport and later earned her MS in Education there as well. Today, Rigerman resides in Batavia.

For Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities, Director of Fine and Performing Arts Maryanne Arena received a SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence. An award-winning educator, director, entertainer, public speaker, and police officer, Arena was named a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary Club and received three Medals of Valor -- including one for capturing one of the New York Police Department's "Ten Most Wanted" criminals.

Since she joined GCC in 2004, Arena established GCC's Children's Theatre tour, Black History Month/ Social Justice productions and produced numerous performances. Arena also received a YWCA Women of Distinction Award for Racial Justice in 2015, a citation from Mental Health Association of Genesee and Orleans Counties for producing, directing, and acting in " 'Night, Mother" in 2012, and SUNY Chancellor's Award recipient for Excellence in Professional Service in 2009.

Arena became a Licensed Police Officer in NYC, a PD Officer Certified in East Stroudsburg, earned a bachelor's degree from East Stroudsburg University and then a master's degree in Acting & Theatre from Brooklyn College. She currently resides in Le Roy.

The SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Faculty Service, which recognizes consistently superior service contributions of teaching faculty over multiple years, was awarded to Professor of Business Lauren Paisley. Paisley first began her relationship with GCC in 2002 as an adjunct faculty member and a part-time trainer in The BEST (Business & Employee Skills Training) Center -- a role she still plays.

However, in 2006, Paisley added full-time professor of Business at GCC to her resume. Since then, Paisley has served on the College's Global Education Committee, International Student Organization (advisor), Academic Senate, accreditation work groups and committees for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, multiple scholarship committees and numerous search committees to fill vacant positions within GCC.

Her work with student organizations has resulted in thousands of dollars to local animal shelters, food pantries, and programming designed to encourage humanity and kindness. Paisley earned her bachelor's degree from D'Youville College and a master's degree from SUNY Buffalo in Business Administration. Paisley resides in Middleport.

Human Communications and Behavior Department Secretary Michelle Forster received the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Classified Service. This award is a system-level award established to give recognition for superior performance and extraordinary achievement by employees in the Classified Service. These awards demonstrate SUNY's commitment to individuals who provide superior service to its students and the community at large.

Forster has served as a secretary in GCC's Human Communications and Behavior department for 11 years. She has trained other secretaries on many operational processes, covered for other staff positions during absences, and provided superior customer service to students, faculty and staff in all circumstances. She regularly volunteers to participate on College committees and fully embraces GCC's passion to go "beyond expectations." Forster resides in Oakfield.

Recognizing consistently superior professional achievement, the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Professional Service was awarded to Kathryn Meloon. Meloon joined the Business Office at GCC in 2000 as a staff accountant, became assistant director of Finance in 2002 and in June of 2007 she was promoted to her current role of bursar where her primary focus is leading the Student Accounts Office.

However, Meloon consistently goes above and "beyond expectations" for GCC and its students. For the past three years (2016-2019) she wrote and was awarded the President's Innovation Award which allowed GCC to create its New York City Extended Student Visit initiative. The NYC Extended Student Visit brings approximately 20 already accepted NYC residents with limited financial means, on an overnight visit to experience GCC and Batavia firsthand. The visit allows these NYC students to envision themselves at GCC in an attempt to positively influence their decision to enroll.

Meloon earned a bachelor's degree at Houghton College and a master's degree at Keuka College. She currently resides in Batavia.

From Genesee Community College:

An outdoor ceremony for graduates of the Antoinette Marchese Clancy School of Nursing at Genesee Community College was held Friday afternoon.

As the next line of first responders, the nurses were honored with a tribute from others on the front line. A Mercy Flight helicopter flew above the campus, tipping its wings at the newly minted nurses. Town of Batavia firefighters on Ladder Truck #22 were there, with lights flashing, siren and horn blaring.

Ingenuity, kindness, tradition and hard work converged to nudge aside the COVID-19 pandemic for just an hour so for the annual Recognition Ceremony, organized this year as a drive-in event in keeping with New York State's social distancing guidelines.

Graduates and their families parked their cars facing the lectern that was set up outside on the berm by the Student Success Center, and all guests could listen to the program on WGCC 90.7FM from their car radios, or watch it remotely through the livestream access.

"It certainly was an evening to remember," said Laurel Sanger, director of the Antoinette Marchese Clancy School of Nursing. "With the help and support of numerous people and departments across GCC's campus and our wonderful community, I think we gave the Class of 2020 a memorable event. It really is a testament to how proud we are of these graduates."

This class of nurses were not officially "pinned," however. Rather they were handed the emblem and certificate representing their accomplishments, and all were wearing masks and standing safe distances apart.

Pinning ceremonies are a time-honored nursing school tradition that signifies official initiation into the brotherhood and sisterhood of nurses. In a typical year, this event happens the same day or weekend of GCC's annual Commencement. But the nursing staff and College administrators decided to plan something special and a little different this year.

Approximately 18 graduates from a total class of 54 were able to attend Friday's event. Another 49 watched the program via livestream.

"For the easiest access of parking lots, late Friday afternoons in the summer are best for the campus community," Sanger said. "Yet we were worried that families would not be able to hear the ceremony from their cars. That's when WGCC stepped in, and then Media Services provided the remote live streaming access.

"And of course, it was wonderful that our Campus Safety team was able to network with local authorities for the parade. We are grateful to all for a special twenty-first century plan of action during a pandemic for this centuries-old tradition."

Pinning ceremonies are rich with symbolism and history and date all the way back to the Crusades of the 12th century. During this time, the Knights of the Order of the Hospital of St. John the Baptist tended to the injured and infirmed Crusaders with new monks vowing to serve sick soldiers in a ceremony where each monk was given a Maltese cross, the first badges given to those who nurse.

In more modern dates, Florence Nightingale was awarded the Red Cross of St. George in recognition for her tireless service to the injured during the Crimean War in the 1850s. To share the honor, she in turn presented a medal of excellence to her brightest graduates. By World War I, the practice of pinning new graduates and also awarding them caps, became a standard practice throughout the United States.

Genesee Community College continues its own tradition of teaching the next class of nurses and welcomes potential new students to sign up for one of the upcoming online Nursing Information Sessions scheduled at the following times:

Non-LPNs Only:

Monday, Aug.10, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 17, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Advanced Placement (LPN-RN) Only:

Tuesday, Aug. 18, 9 - 11 a.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 23, 4 - 6 p.m.

To register online go to: https://www.genesee.edu/academics/programs/health/nursing/

Photos courtesy of Genesee Community College.

Press release:

"Socially distanced but strategically focused," that is how administrators at Genesee Community College are describing the Fall 2020 semester, which introduces new micro-credentials and some important curriculum changes all aimed at helping students secure or create long-term careers to sustain success in these uncertain and uncharted times ahead.

Professional Sales Micro-Credential

Careers in professional sales are evolving with new tools and strategies to reach ever-more sophisticated consumers and many new marketplaces. Professional sales careers offer the benefit of high earning potential, job security, scheduling flexibility, unlimited industry options and the joy of applying both the entrepreneurial spirit with basic business skills.

In just three business courses or nine credit hours, the Professional Sales Micro-credential at GCC provides up and coming, as well as seasoned sales professionals across industry lines with a skill set that launches or actively advances sales careers.

This program can be completed in one semester and is offered via GCC's HyFlex learning modality which provides students the ultimate convenience of learning anywhere, anytime, on any device -- including a classroom.

To discuss the Professional Sales Micro-credential opportunity, contact Lina LaMattina, Ph.D., GCC assistant professor and director of Business and Commerce, at:   LMLamattina@genesee.edu, or call (585) 343-0055, ext. 6319.

Computer Repair Certificate

Since March, millions of people worldwide have relied on their computers and the internet to work from home, maintain an income, place online orders for groceries and other essentials, complete academic coursework and even engage in religious worship and socializing.

The reliance on technology has increased the demand for people who can maintain computers, laptops and other electronic devices that are now our lifeline. With that in mind, GCC refreshed the Computer Repair Certificate program, which introduces computer hardware and various software and operating system components.

Students will learn hardware installation, configuration, repair, systematic troubleshooting, internal operation, peripheral devices, operating system installation and system tools. Students will also gain invaluable experience during lab work that includes computer assembly and real-time repair projects.

Individualized Studies Associate in Applied Science

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the average individual experiences a half dozen careers in a lifetime. Everyday new businesses are being created and people are inventing entirely new careers born of innovation, creativity and the desire to satisfy and address new needs, opportunities and trends.

GCC's Individualized Studies Associate in Applied Science degree has been meticulously redesigned to encourage students of all ages to select courses and program parameters that align with individual goals and interests while meeting core learning requirements. It is a degree that supports unique dreams, aspirations and budding business plans.

"The faculty at Genesee Community College are focused on their students in a way that most people don't realize," said Kathleen M. Schiefen, Ph.D., GCC provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs. "They are not just teaching students day-to-day and meticulously following their progress through a course. They are also staying abreast of industry trends, technology changes and job forecasts.

"This information becomes the foundation for curriculum and programmatic changes. Every program is carefully reviewed and scrutinized every five years with the help of several hundred industry professionals who make up GCC's broad network of academic advisory councils. GCC students receive an education based on the latest data, research and a close evaluation of best practices and future forecasts."

This scrutiny can lead to grants that may bring in new equipment or a new adjunct faculty member, or small adjustments such as eliminating a three-credit language requirement. Collectively, it means GCC students waste no time in securing the education, experience and often the connections that lead to success.

Anyone one who is currently working, but looking to add a skill set or change a career path; out of work and wanting to try something new; or just graduating from high school or a GED program and looking for the next steps toward a college degree, now is the time to apply.

The Fall 2020 semester starts Monday, Aug. 31. Most courses are available online offering maximum flexibility and the comfort and safety of learning from home.

Contact a GCC student success coach by calling (585) 345-6805 or email ssc@genesee.edu, or start your free application online.

Press release:

Following the announcement and guidelines released yesterday by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), Genesee Community College will shift its Fall 2020 athletic season and combine it with the Spring 2021 season in light of the challenges and safety concerns created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

GCC men's and women's soccer, basketball, swimming and diving, and women's volleyball competitions will be rescheduled from Fall 2020 to Spring 2021, in line with the NJCAA and the majority of Region III team decisions.

GCC coaches are communicating this news to their teams while planning for the College's student-athletes to experience safe athletic training and conditioning activities this fall.

GCC's new athletic facility, the Richard C. Call Arena, which features an indoor field house, state-of-the-art Fitness Center and Human Performance Lab, classrooms and coaches' offices, and a press box overlooking the turf field opened in 2017.

The new Call Arena joined the original Anthony B. Zambito Gymnasium which supports basketball and volleyball, and the College's unique second-story swimming pool. These combined facilities make GCC well-positioned to manage the dual scheduling challenges ahead.

"Our athletic complex is among the finest in the region and I am confident we will rise to the challenge of giving our Cougar athletes the best experience possible," Kristen Schuth, GCC's assistant vice president of Student Engagement & Inclusion and athletic director said.

"I am sure that the 2020-2021 season will be one to remember, but I'm also confident that with a lot of strategic planning and scheduling, we will move forward during this difficult time and give our student-athletes every opportunity for success."

All of GCC sport-specific updates will be shared as they become available at www.geneseeathletics.com. GCC posts the latest updates and information on the College's COVID19 webpage that is available from the College's homepage on its main website, www.genesee.edu.

Press release:

Genesee Community College has made the decision to suspend its fall athletic season to protect the health and safety of the students and community in light of the challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This decision will affect men's and women's soccer, basketball, swimming and diving, and women's volleyball, which is in line with the majority of Region III decisions.

GCC coaches have communicated this news to their teams, and are maintaining continual engagement with the College's student-athletes, as well as providing opportunities for safe athletic conditioning activities where possible.

"This decision, although not without its disappointments, is the best path for us to ensure the safety and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches and training staff," said Assistant Vice President of Student Engagement & Inclusion Kristen Schuth.

"While we are eager to move forward with such an important part of the student and campus experience, the landscape of this semester just does not allow us to do so in a method that would have been convincingly without associated risks. I look forward to the day when it is safe for the fields and floors of GCC to hold competitions again."

GCC will honor all signed scholarship agreements for incoming student-athletes and for those returning. At this time, the length of the fall sports suspension is unknown, and decisions regarding winter and spring sports have not yet been made. Sport-specific updates will be shared as they become available at geneseeathletics.com.

Press release:

Officials at Genesee Community College were to delighted to learn this month that the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) has named GCC among the first-time honorees in the association's Educational Fundraising Awards.

The annual awards recognize exemplary development programs in public, private and independent colleges, universities and schools. 

The winners in the following four categories were determined through a blind review of data submitted by member institutions over three years to the CASE AMAtlas Voluntary Support of Education (VSE) survey:

• Overall Performance: For colleges and universities that show solid program growth, breadth in the base of support, and other indications of a mature, well-maintained program. 
• Overall Improvement: For colleges and universities that demonstrate significant program growth across the three years of data. 
• Award of Excellence: For independent schools that demonstrate solid program growth, breadth in the base of support, and other indicators of an exemplary fundraising program.
• Sustained Excellence: Recognize institutions that have demonstrated consistent fundraising success over a five-year period. Institutions that have been recognized with an overall performance, overall improvement or award for excellence in three out of the past five years also receive this award designation. 

GCC was among 32 institutions to be a first-time honoree in the Overall Performance Category, and also one of just seven community colleges recognized.

Winners are not selected solely on total funds raised. Rather, a committee of experienced fundraisers review hundreds of pages of data from the VSE survey and consider a number of factors and variables, including: 

• Patterns of growth in total support;
• Evaluation of what contributed to the total support figure; 
• Overall breadth of fundraising; 
• Patterns of growth in gifts from sources including alumni and other individuals, corporations and foundations; 
• Impact of the 12 largest gifts on total support; 
• Giving to areas such as current operations, endowment and property/buildings; 
• Amount raised per student; 
• Amount raised relative to expenditures; 
• Alumni participation. 

"GCC is excited and thankful to receive this wonderful honor from CASE," said Justin M. Johnston, GCC's vice president of Development and External Affairs and the executive director of the GCC Foundation. This award is a testament to all of our donors who make our work possible through their generous support of our students and programs.

"Our staff, our college leadership and our foundation leadership sincerely appreciate this recognition. Adding another level of importance for us, this honor was made possible as well by the leadership of our late colleague, Rick Ensman. Rick was a seasoned fundraiser who had nearly thirty years of experience at GCC when he passed away last year.

"I am thankful for the opportunity to spotlight the contributions of so many devoted donors, staff members, and volunteers of the College and the Foundation, who work to collectively support our students."

CASE member institutions that have participated in the VSE for the past three years are considered for the honor.

To learn more or to see the full list of CASE winners, click here.

ABOUT CASE

It is a global nonprofit membership association of educational institutions with a mission to help develop communities of professional practice that build institutional resilience and success in challenging times.

The communities include staff engaged in alumni relations, advancement services, communications, fundraising, government relations, marketing and student recruitment. CASE is volunteer-led and uses the intellectual capital of senior practitioners to build capacity and capability across the world.

It has offices in Washington, D.C., London, Singapore and Mexico City. Member institutions include more than 3,600 colleges and universities, primary and secondary independent and international schools, and nonprofit organizations in 82 countries and serves more than 90,000 practitioners. For more information about CASE, visit www.case.org.