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Community Comes Together for Joplin
OTC relief effort brings out the best in the Ozarks
The southeast corner of OTC's Springfield campus at National Avenue and Chestnut Expressway was abuzz with activity last week, beginning less than 24 hours after a tornado tore a destructive path through Joplin. Throughout the relief effort, the good-hearted people of the Ozarks have brought tens of thousands of dollars in cash and tons of vital goods to that corner. By Friday, OTC had collected $67,500 and sent nine tractor-trailers heaping with goods to Joplin.  "OTC is happy and proud to serve as a conduit between those who wanted to give and those in need in Joplin. The work of the volunteers and the generosity of those who gave speak volumes about the people of the Ozarks, who are always ready to lend a helping hand," said Dr. Hal L. Higdon, president of Ozarks Technical Community College. "We also want to thank Prime Inc. and Jim Towery at Steelman Transportation for the use of several tractors to transport the items to Joplin. The effort of the Journal Broadcast Group played a big part in bringing people to campus. Without their contribution, the effort would not have been as successful as it was."  There have been many touching moments involving folks who have contributed or volunteered. Monday night, an unemployed man dropped off a case of water. He said it was all he could afford. Tuesday evening, the Girl Scouts showed up with 800 boxes of their trademark cookies. Wednesday afternoon, Bingham Elementary dropped off $1,156 in bills and change. Wednesday night, a little girl brought $31 in change that she had in four plastic sandwich bags and a green Easter egg.
And then there's the story of Tanya Willhite, 22, who graduated last week from Missouri State University. She was shocked when the tornado hit Joplin, where her friends and classmates lived. Tanya grew up in Carl Junction, just east of Joplin. When she returned to Springfield Monday, where she lived while attending Missouri State, she learned of OTC's relief drive. Tanya came to OTC Tuesday to volunteer. She was here until we closed Wednesday night, too. But Thursday, she was absent - she had her gall bladder removed. "I'm so glad this is here and as soon as I get out of the hospital, I'm going to Joplin to help there," she said. This Friday, June 3, please join us for a thank you celebration for the OTC family and everyone who worked as a volunteer. The event will be held in the Atrium of Information Commons on the Springfield Campus from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The members of the cabinet will be working to serve the food and say thank you. For more about the Joplin Relief Drive, go to www.otc.edu/joplinrelief. Pictured, from top: Jeff Layman, member of the Board of Trustees, helps to unload a truck of donations; Transport Training Institute Instructor Rufus Kelly unloads boxes of donations; Director of Institutional Effectiveness Marcia Wheeler stacks cases of water with J. Fotsch from Power 96.5; Peter Edwards, Internal Auditor, wraps a pallet of water for transport to Joplin.
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Governor Speaks at 2011 Commencement
482 graduates participated in this year's ceremony On Thursday, May 19, 482 graduates of Ozarks Technical Community College participated in the 2011 commencement ceremony, held at the JQH Arena at Missouri State University. Governor Jay Nixon served as the speaker for this year's event. In his address, he encouraged the graduates to employ critical thinking, saying "Use your education to bring light, not heat, to public discourse."  This year's ceremony also included a performance by the OTC Choir, and the presentation of the second annual Distinguished Alumni Award to Ryan Nicholls, Director of the Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management. For those who were unable to attend commencement, or who would like to see part of it again, video of the ceremony is available at OTC's YouTube page. Thank you to all of the faculty and staff who helped to make this year's event a success!  
Pictured, from top: Governor Nixon gives the commencement address; Dr. Higdon congratulates a graduate during the ceremony; a graduate celebrates as he exits the ceremony floor (left); a dental program graduate's decorated cap (right).
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Retirees Honored at Reception
OTC family celebrates the service of this year's retirees
The spring retirement reception was held on Friday, May 13, providing an opportunity for the College to honor the service and dedication of several retiring employees. Congratulations to this year's retirees!
Pictured, clockwise from top left: Cindy Hinds, retiring instructor, speaks at the ceremony; J. Howard Fisk, president of the Board of Trustees, and Dr. Higdon present the traditional gift of a clock to retiring Director of Computer Services Bill Bischoff; Retired Director of Workforce Development Phil Davis jokes with College Director of Communications and Marketing Joel Doepker. |
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The Same 10 Questions We Always Ask
Cindy Tuttle, Secretary to the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs
Describe what you do in 50 words or less.
I record and maintain student affairs staff request, check request, tuition waivers, P-Card activities etc.... I also prepare students for the graduation process.
How long have you been at OTC, and where were you immediately prior?
I have been with OTC for 11 years now. Prior to that, I attended OTC and earned my business degree.
What do you hope to accomplish in your position or department in the coming year?
To provide excellent customer service to all students in need of assistance. To make their experience here at OTC as smooth and rewarding as possible.
What is your favorite thing about working at OTC?
It has to be the people I work with. It takes a lot of team effort to work in Student Affairs. I could not ask for a better group of people to work with.
What is your favorite thing about living and working in the Ozarks?
I love working in the Ozarks. I also enjoy being close to all the Lakes and rivers. Have boat - will travel!
Tell us about one person who had a significant impact on your professional life or career choice.
I would have to say my two kids. I wanted to show them that no matter what age or what situation, you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to do.
What do you have on the walls of your office?
A clock.
If you could have dinner with three famous people, alive or dead, who would they be?
Jesus, John F. Kennedy, and Abe Lincoln.
If you were to write a book, what would it be about?
My life.
What were the last three songs played on your iPod (or what was the last music you listened to)?
"Turn the Page" by Bob Seger, "Don't look Back" by Boston, and "What About Love" by Heart.
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Campus Notes
- Tickets are still available for the 2011 Employee Night at the Springfield Cardinals on Thursday, June 9, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $6.75 each, and are available in the Cashier's office on the Springfield Campus. There is no limit to the number of tickets you may purchase; however, you must purchase your tickets by June 1 at 5 p.m. Each employee who purchases a ticket will have his/her name entered into a drawing to throw out the first pitch! You must be an employee of the College to enter your name. We will announce the winner of this contest Thursday, June 2. If you have any questions regarding this event, contact Stephanie Brown at browns@otc.edu.
- Evangel University will host an Open House at 5:45 p.m., Tuesday, June 14, for those interested in the Graduate and Professional Studies Programs. There is no charge to attend. Hors d'oeuvres will be served from 5:30 to 5:45 p.m. in the first floor lobby of Crusader Hall. Prospective students for the adult education programs will be able to attend breakout sessions where they will meet the professors and ask questions about the specific programs; five bachelor degree completion programs and 11 masters programs are available. The programs are designed for students to be able to finish their degrees in approximately two years while still working full-time. For those who submit an application during the open house, the $25 application fee will be waived. The Admissions team will be giving away two sets of Springfield Cardinals tickets as door prizes. Please RSVP for the event here, or by calling (417) 865-2811, ext. 7229. Evangel University is a private, Christian university that offers more than 100 undergraduate academic programs and 11 master's programs. For additional information, visit www.evangel.edu.
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Local Happenings
- Now - July 31: Sounds on the Square Free Concert Series, Park Central Square, downtown Springfield. A variety of local musicians will participate in this summer's Sounds on the Square series! For a list of performers and show dates, call (417) 831-6200 or visit www.itsalldowntown.com.
- June 2-5 and 9-12: "Hamlet vs. Zombies," The Skinny Improv, 301 Park Central East, Springfield. This original production by Bryant Turnage and Jeff Jenkins is sure to entertain! Call (417) 831-5233 or visit www.theskinnyimprov.com for details.
- June 3: First Friday ArtWalk, downtown Springfield.Join the galleries, shops, and restaurants of the Downtown Art District for this exciting evening of art, music, food and more. The event begins at 6 p.m. For more information, visit ffaw.org.
- June 11: Bark in the Park, Sequiota Park, Springfield. Dogs are the star of this event, which includes dog-friendly vendors and activities, a canine talent show and more. For details, see www.parkboard.org or call (417) 864-1049.
- June 11-12: Dairy Days, Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park. Join us for an exciting weekend of dairy discoveries! Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the life of a dairy cow, the milking process, the many products made from milk, and more. For details, visit www.parkboard.org or call (417) 837-5949.
- June 18: Summer SnowFest, Jordan Valley Park, Springfield. Snow in June! Enjoy live entertainment, games and activities, and fantastic giveaways, or just play in the mountain of snow. See www.parkboard.org or call (417) 866-7444 for more information.
- June 23: An Acoustic Evening with Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt, the Gillioz Theatre, downtown Springfield. Lovett and Hiatt are teaming up this summer for a series of intimate acoustic shows that will feature both artists performing side by side, alternating songs from their respective careers. For ticket information, call (417) 863-9491 or visit www.gillioz.com.
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Birthdays
June 1 - Andy Hoggatt 2 - Dane Galloway Jeffrey Kulback Dennis Peters 4 - Jennifer Ristine 7 - Guy Barrett Jonathan Grindstaff 8 - Lavonna Franklin 9 - Amy Gleason Kelly Greenwood 10 - Jennifer Marshall 11 - James Ackerman 12 - Carla Bradley Sallee Webb 14 - Steven Duncan 15 - Eric Kyle Jerome Ransom 20 - Connie Harmon 21 - Sara Bruffey 23 - Kelly Everding John Harrell 24 - Robert Brewer Todd Wilkinson 25 - Rima Freeman Carol Taylor 26 - Rebecca Jenkins 27 - Elizabeth Ruddick 28 - Linda Caldwell Lori Mills 29 - Virgie Greer Tal Kroll Eric Lansdown Tracy Ponder David Pulley |
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New Employees, Transfers and Promotions
New Full-Time Permanent Employees:
- Craig Schutt, Graphic Design Technology Instructor. Begins August 16.
- Susan Griffitts, Practical Nursing Instructor. Begins June 6.
- Elizabeth Hetherington, Practical Nursing Instructor. Begins June 6.
- Angela Messner, Practical Nursing Instructor. Start date to be determined.
- Jody Pena, Physical Therapist Assistant Instructor. Begins June 6.
- Tara Lawless, Math Tutor. Begins August 16.
- Jared Zamouski, Academic Advisor - Developmental Education. Begins July 1.
- Terry Goodman, Custodian. Begins June 1.
- Rita Rubison, Custodian. Begins June 1.
- Max Trader, Custodian. Begins June 13.
New Full-Time Temporary Employees:
- Mike Vest, Technical Support Technician. Begins July 5.
Transfers and Promotions:
- Ellen Newby-Hines, Academic Advisor - Developmental Education. Begins new position July 1.
- Dr. Jeff Jochems, President - Richwood Valley Campus. Begins new position July 1.
- Dr. Steve Biermann, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Administrative Services. Begins new position July 1.
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Next Newsletter Deadline: Friday, June 24
The employee newsletter is sent out on the first of each month. The deadline is one week prior, so mark your calendars if you have news you would like us to include. The deadline for the July newsletter is Friday, June 24.
Send your submissions to either of the following email addresses, and we'll get the word out!
clips@otc.edu
masond@otc.edu
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