A current student at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, Briere is a science/teacher-prep major with a cumulative 3.8 grade point average. The former home-schooled student is the third child in a family of eight and is responsible for her own educational expenses. She plans to continue her education and obtain a master’s degree, working towards a career teaching 4 th and 5 th graders at a public school or on a Native American reservation.
A home schooled student who has taken dual enrollment classes since 2005, Landrum is a current student at JSRCC and boast a 3.8 grade point average. She is currently working towards an associate’s degree in liberal arts while working part-time. Landrum has received numerous awards for her contributions to the community, including Henrico County’s Prudential Spirit community Award. After graduating from Reynolds, she plans to complete her bachelor’s degree and pursue a career in cosmetology, helping women realize their inner beauty and personal self-worth.
Glenn DuBois, chancellor of the Virginia Community College System, in commending the 30 scholars, said “These outstanding students are Virginia’s future leaders. They represent the potential in all of our youth, and the difference that we each can make in the world.”
The scholarships recognize students from across the commonwealth who have demonstrated academic excellence during high school as well as a commitment to developing their leadership skills. They will become mentors to future Legacy Scholars as they move through their academic programs and graduate from a Virginia Community College. Each scholarship bears the name of one of many philanthropy leaders who support Virginia’s Community Colleges.
During the program, Rose Liggan also received the designation of Excellence in Service to J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College for her over 30 years of service to the College. She served as the Scholarship Coordinator for the College and Educational Foundation for most of her career
A key initiative of the College is to increase the number of scholarships available to students. For more information on scholarships and how you can help remove barriers for students contact the JSRCC Educational Foundation at 523-5181 or visiting www.reynolds.edu/jsr_fnd/.
The mock drill involved joint training with the Virginia State Police, the Goochland County Sheriff’s Office, the Goochland Volunteer Fire -Rescue Association and nearly 50 volunteer participants.
"The drill tested us in a lot of different ways," says JSRCC Police Chief Garth Wheeler. "One of our main goals was to find out how good our communication capabilities were and how we would interact with different agencies."
The drill lasted about two hours, before the group gathered for an evaluation session. JSRCC is the second community college in the Virginia Community College System and the first institution in the Greater Richmond Region to conduct a mock active shooter drill.
JSRCC’s Malcolm T. Holmes selected for Leadership Program 
Richmond JSRCC Director of Marketing and Public Relations & Special Assistant to the President Malcolm T. Holmes has been selected to participate in Leadership Metro Richmond (LMR), a non-profit community leadership development program that seeks to advance the Richmond region by educating, energizing and connecting a diverse group of local leaders to serve the community.
Since 1980, more than 1,500 Richmonders have graduated from LMR. This year’s Leadership Quest class, the LMR flagship program, is one of the largest in the program’s history. It is divided into teams that will work collaboratively on action learning projects designed to move beyond the discussion of regional challenges to identification and implementation of sustainable, strategic solutions.
In addition to his participation in LMR, Holmes has been elected vice-chair of the Carver Promise Board of Directors and has been appointed an associate trustee of the Board of Trustees for Friends Association for Children.
MTV’s Jose Tapia hosts "Decision 2008” forum
JSRCC recently hosted “Decision 2008,” an interactive forum featuring Jose Tapia from MTV’s Real World: Key West. The forum is designed to help students and the general public learn more about each political party before voting in the November presidential elections. Tapia facilitated a discussion among more than 100 students, staff and faculty members – covering several hot-button issues including Iraq, abortion, immigration and the economy. The event was held in the Massey Library Technology Center’s Lipman Auditorium.
Tapia appeared in MTV’s Real World: Key West in 2006. Since then he has been traveling the country giving lectures on topics like politics, diversity, inspiration and leadership. “I was recently picked up for the Decision ‘08 tour, which allows me to speak at colleges and universities across the country,” said Tapia on his official website. “It’s a very rewarding experience. I speak about the importance of us young adults getting out there and voting. Being informed about the issues and where the candidates stand is so crucial.”
Delegate John O’Bannon takes a tour of the new Ivor and Maureen Massey Library Technology Center
Pictured (l-r): John Ambrose, Delegate John O’Bannon, Jim Cuthbertson (College Board), Malcolm Holmes, President Gary L. Rhodes.
A warm welcome for Reynolds students
Students kicked-off the academic year by enjoying food and games during “Welcome Back Parties” scheduled at each campus.
The parties were open to all students, staff and faculty and offered pizza, soft drinks, pool, foosball, air hockey and popular video games on big screens.“We really wanted to do something fun to start the new year,” said Student Life Coordinator Kemper Steele. “It has been nice for students to catch up with each other, with professors and, also, to meet new people.”
The Office of Student Life has student activities, clubs and workshops planned throughout the year. For the latest information, check Upcoming Events at www.Reynolds.edu
Police and Security Services welcomes back students
Known affectionately as the "Blue Light Special,” JSRCC Office of Police and Security Services recently welcomed back students, faculty and staff to campus with free coffee and doughnuts. According to Police Chief Garth Wheeler, these activities offer members of the college community opportunities to ask questions and learn about safety and security issues on campus.
According to Chief Wheeler the department has been busy over the summer increasing campus security. Students will soon have the services of 25 Code Blue Emergency boxes, which will be located on each of the College’s three campuses.
“The emergency boxes will be a valuable asset to the College community,” noted Chief Wheeler. “If a student or anyone on campus picks up the phone in an emergency box, they will automatically be connected to a Police and Security Services operator for assistance.”
The Police and Security Services department has a number of activities and professional development sessions planned for students, faculty and staff this semester, to include sessions on “The Law and You” and “Gang Violence.” With 10 sworn officers, the department has plans to add six full-time security officers this semester. For more information about the Police and Security Services department, visit www.reynolds.edu/security.
College remembers Sue Pahle
Susan Pahle, former Coordinator of ESL at J.S.Reynolds, died on July 3, 2008. Many faculty and staff will recall that it was through Susan’s energetic leadership, starting in 1997, that the college’s comprehensive ESL Program was created. Under her direction, the ESL curriculum was redesigned and new testing and placement processes were implemented – vastly improving the quality of advising for ESL students. She reached out to English learners by organizing open houses and visiting adult education classes and community centers to increase the visibility of the ESL Program in the College’s service region. Enrollments increased dramatically; in Fall 1997 when the program was initiated, they were up 67 percent from the previous fall. Steady growth continued, from 70 students in Spring 1997 to 369 students by Spring 2003. Until it was fully funded by the college, Susan kept the program growing through grants and an innovative collaboration with the College’s non-credit corporate training division.
Susan left the college in 2005 to start her own company, Language Works, but the program continues to thrive on the foundation that she established. Between Spring 2007 and Spring 2008, there were more than 1000 ESL enrollments. To honor Susan’s work, the ESL faculty is supporting the Pahle family’s decision to create a memorial scholarship for ESL students. Contributions can be directed to the J. Sargeant Reynolds Educational Foundation at 804.523.5181
Richmond high school students practice teaching in City schools
High school students from the City of Richmond participated in a six-week summer teacher preparation program, aiding some of the City’s elementary and middle school teachers with summer classes. The program was a partnership between Reynolds’ Center for Teacher Education and the City of Richmond Public Schools and was developed to inspire high school students to consider careers in education. It was funded through a grant from the Community Foundation Serving Richmond and Central Virginia. Students worked as teaching aides in classrooms Monday through Thursday of each week and attended a college level education class each Friday.
“My counselor encouraged me to participate in the program,” said Mikala from Armstrong High School. “I help my little cousins when they need help with homework and always enjoyed it. Being in the classroom was fun.”
“I miss some of my students from class already,” said Monique from Armstrong High School. “I love kids and I think the kids enjoyed having someone close to their age to help out in class.”
In addition to real-life teaching experience, the 14 participating students also earned college credit for their course work. Students studied theories of multiple intelligences and practiced alternative teaching methods for several different learning styles.
Freeman appointed to JSRCC College Board for third term
The Henrico County Board of Supervisors recently appointed J. Douglas Freeman, Sr. to his third term on the J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Board. He served previously for eight years on the College Board before his term limit was reached in 2005. Freeman has served for the past three years on the College’s Foundation Board.
A graduate of Princeton University, Freeman also holds an A.A.S. degree in horticulture from Reynolds.
The 2008-09 JSRCC College Board members include: Benjamin L. Alexander, Maureen Moslow-Benway, Dr. James H. Bowles, Jr., Robert E. Comet, Jr., AIA, Mark A. Creery, Sr., James Cuthbertson, Beverley G. Donati, Dr. Rondle E. Edwards, J. Douglas Freeman, Sr., Gerald E. Kilgore, George Long, Doris E. McCray, Shawn L. Peterson, Dr. William A. Rees and Harold Watkins.
My summer vacation…
by John S. Ochab.1
This picture was taken from a billboard by my wife, Helen, and I while staying near beautiful West Lake in
Hangzhou, China. You can imagine the déjà vu. Apparently, it is an ad for local real estate. Our three week China tour, centered in Hong Kong/Kowloon, included flights to Beijing and Hangzhou, with shorter excursions to Shanghai and Shaoxing. Traveling in China was both an exciting and educational experience.
1John S. Ochab, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Physics, has been with JSRCC for three years and teachers both the general college and university physics courses.
Friday-only classes estimated to save students more than 
$1,000 in gas and vehicle costs next semester
While many colleges across the country are scheduling classes four days per week to help students cope with the rising fuel costs, J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College is piloting Fuel $mart Fridays—a class schedule that allows students to drive to campus only one day a week and still earn a full load of credits for the semester.
With an average student commuting 20 miles daily, he will save driving 80 miles per week or 1,280 miles over a 16-week semester by participating in the Fuel $mart Friday program. With gas at $4.00 per gallon, the student can potentially save over $1,080 per semester in vehicle operating costs* by attending classes on Friday only.
All classes will be held on the College’s Parham Road Campus. They are scheduled as follows: 8 a.m. - 10:50 a.m.; noon - 2:40 p.m.; 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.; 7 p.m. - 9:50 p.m.
“We’re all feeling the crunch at the gas pump,” said Gary L. Rhodes, JSRCC president. “Here at the College, over 80 percent of our students work and some are on fixed incomes. This is just one way that we can help them further their education despite the rising cost of gas.”
The College has added additional benefits for students participating in the Fuel $mart Friday program, including additional tutors being available and expanded bookstore hours. Registration for fall semester and Fuel $mart Friday classes is currently underway.
>> See the full class list
>> Register now
* According to the AAA website, the composite national average in 2007 to operate a vehicle was 52.2 cents a mile when gasoline costs an average $2.50 per gallon. By adding a 62.5% increase for gasoline costing its current average of $4.00 per gallon rate, it will cost a student an estimated 84.8 cents to travel a mile during the 2008 fall semester A student traveling 1280 less miles a semester will save on the average $1085.44.
JSRCC hosts summer nursing completion ceremony
JSRCC recently recognized 25 students who completed the Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing. The ceremony opened with words of welcome by JSRCC President Dr. Gary Rhodes and Care Advantage President Deborah Johnston, RN.
Guest speaker Carol Rodi, RN, BSN provided an inspirational keynote message. Rodi stressed to the students “you will be the hope for those in pain and take to heart that at times you will be the last voice and last touch for some people here on earth.”
After the award presentations, graduates participated in the traditional candle lighting ceremony and recital of the Nurses’ Pledge. Following the program, graduates along with their family and friends, enjoyed a reception.
The Reynolds’ Nursing Program is designed to prepare its students to participate as collaborative members of nursing care teams and to provide direct care to patients in a variety of health service facilities and agencies. Upon satisfactory completion of the program, students are eligible to take the licensing examination to become Registered Nurses.
State Farm awards $15,000 to JSRCC Auto Technology Program
The J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Automotive Technology program received a $15,000 gift from State Farm Insurance to assist in paying tuition and to purchase books and tools for students preparing to enter the auto repair industry.
“Through their generous support, J. Sargeant Reynolds will be able to fill numerous additional education opportunities that will make a lasting difference in the lives of many students,” said JSRCC President Dr. Gary L. Rhodes. “As demand for financial aid continues to rise, gifts such as this will make it possible for qualified students to complete their education and eventually serve the auto repair industry in the Greater-Richmond area.”
Automotive technicians can pursue numerous positions in the automotive field including safety inspectors, service managers, parts specialists, or service writers.
“State Farm is a proud supporter of JSRCC. JSRCC is an asset to the Richmond area and the state of Virginia,” said State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Public Relations Consultant Jon Hannah.
Executive Women International local chapter awards more than $15,000 to JSRCC students
The Richmond Chapter of Executive Women International (EWI) recently
awarded nine J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College students $1,700 each to assist in funding their education.
The JSRCC recipients include: Latoya Douglas (Human Services), Jeanette Gilbo (Nursing), Sherika Gillison-Chew (Education), Rashiba Hill (Business Administration), Ronald Ingram (Automotive Technology), Christie Johnson (Business Administration), Marvin Jones (Business Administration), Tanya Shelton (Health Records Coding) and Kelly Toomey (Medical Field). Gilbo was also submitted to EWI Corporate to be eligible for an additional $2,500 scholarship.
The EWI Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) program is for non-traditional students who are entering college for the first time or re-training due to changes in the workforce, while facing economic, social or physical challenges.
The local Richmond Chapter of EWI has awarded over $100,000 to nearly 70 scholarship recipients over the past eight years. EWI has more than 75 chapters located across the United States, Canada and Europe, including a chapter located in Richmond, Va. Founded in 1938, EWI provides businesswomen from diverse industries a forum for promoting their firms, enhancing their personal and professional development and engaging in community activities. With more than 3,000 companies and 3,500 representatives as members, EWI is the leading connection for business professionals.
Future Students Enjoy Initial Summer Orientation Program
Through mock game shows, tours and a Reynolds Showcase fair, over 
100 students that will be attending JSRCC in the Fall Semester prepared for their college experience by recently participating in SOAR (Student Orientation, Advising & Registration). The SOAR sessions are helpful for those incoming students as they have the opportunity to receive top-notch advising from faculty and staff, learn about student success resources at the College and establish a sound class schedule for the upcoming term.
Students who participate in SOAR also have a better understanding of the full opportunities at Reynolds. For more information about additional Summer SOAR programs, visit http://www.reynolds.edu/orientation/.
JSRCC prepares teachers for urban schools
Reynolds continues to address the most critical needs of area teachers. Last week, the College’s Center for Teacher Education hosted its second Urban Teachers Institute, a week-long initiative designed to enrich teachers’ understanding of students in urban school settings and strengthen content knowledge in much needed math and science areas. With support from the Community Foundation, JSRCC partnered with Virginia Commonwealth University and public schools in the City of Richmond, Henrico County and Petersburg to offer the Institute.
>> read the full press release
Reynolds partners with Piedmont to offer Learning Community Summer Institute
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College partnered with Piedmont Virginia Community College to host this year’s Learning Communities Summer Institute (LCSI). During this intensive workshop, 25 JSRCC faculty focused on implementation of learning communities (LCs) and LC-related strategies. An essential characteristic of learning communities is collaboration across disciplines, and the LCSI amplified this spirit by collaborating both across discipline and across institutional lines.
Learning communities are a kind of co-registration or block scheduling that enables students to take courses together. The courses themselves are typically linked by integrated themes and assignments, developed through ongoing faculty collaboration. Considerable research indicates that learning communities have a positive impact on student persistence, retention and graduation rates. Essentially, students who perceive themselves as members of a community, tethered to their college experience, are more likely to be successful in their courses and programs. Unsurprisingly both students and faculty show higher levels of satisfaction as the result of participation in learning communities.
Reynolds partners with the Metropolitan Business League to offer Small Business Boot Camp
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College has joined the Metropolitan Business League and other partners to offer the 2008 Small Business Boot Camp, a summer-long series of workshops designed to share general business and finance practices with small business owners. Workshop topics include how to access capital, keep records and create a website. Sessions specific to the restaurant and construction industries will also be offered. All workshops are scheduled at JSRCC’s Parham Road Campus from 10 a.m. to noon in Georgiadis Hall, room 351. For more information and a full summer schedule, visit www.thembl.org.
Other partners include the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Virginia Department of Business Assistance, New Visions New Ventures, the Technology Resource Center, the Greater Richmond Small Business Development Center, the Chesterfield County Department of Economic Development, the Henrico County Economic Development Authority, the City of Richmond Department of Economics, Hanover County Economic Development and the City of Richmond Office of Minority Business Development.
“Freedom Writers” essay contest winners announced 
JSRCC recently hosted another “Around the World Through Books” discussion featuring The Freedom Writers Diary, by Erin Gruwell and the Freedom Writers – an inspirational story about how a teacher and her “at-risk” students used writing to change and inspire the world around them.
As a bonus, the winners of the college-wide Freedom Writers Essay Contest were announced following the book discussion. Essays were submitted by students in two categories – research and personal narrative. Faculty and staff also entered a separate personal narrative essay contest. Winners are:
Research Paper Category:
1st Place: Ginger Edwards, “Mothers, Come Home for your Children!”
2nd Place: Wendy O’Brien, “Alcohol and Addiction”
3rd Place: Jerica Beninson, “Violence Is a Learned Behavior”
Personal Narrative Category:
1st Place: Michelle Richards, “Cleaning Up”
2nd Place: Rebecca Wall, “Writings on the Wall”
3rd Place: Ginger Edwards, “Following Your Dream” Faculty Submission: Miles Mccrimmon, “Telling Tales out of School: What Ms. Gruwell and the Freedom Writers Have to Teach Us”
Reynolds celebrates Earth Day 2008
JSRCC staff and faculty gathered on April 22 to learn more about the history Earth Day and discuss ways in which they could live and work a little greener. Reynolds faculty member Richard Groover presented some background as well as helpful suggestions.
Groover is a Biology professor and teaches a course at JSRCC entitled “Biology of the Environment.” He shared a history of what he referred to as “an explosion of environmental laws” in the 1970’s and talked about easy ways for individuals to make a positive impact – including turning lights off, recycling and reducing gasoline consumption. Raffle winners were awarded with reusable grocery bags, donated by Ukrops Supermarkets, as well as fluorescent light bulbs, organic cotton t-shirts and pvc-free plastic reusable water bottles.
National youth violence expert addresses campus safety
With the perception of high-profile shootings and 
school violence on the rise, Dr. Dewey Cornell denounced the concern during his presentation at the J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Safety Symposium.
A clinical psychologist and a professor in the School of Education at the University of Virginia, Dr. Cornell focused on the importance of violence prevention in every crisis management plan. His presentation included dissecting the shooting at Virginia Tech and stressed that there are many more shootings in restaurants and in homes than at educational institutions.
For the past 15 years Dr. Cornell conducted research on the psychological profiles of juveniles who have committed murder, and has professionally evaluated many juvenile offenders, including a 14-year-old boy from Paducah, Ky. who fired into a prayer group and killed three of his classmates.
The 2nd Annual Safety Symposium showcased numerous law enforcement and fire safety units including the Virginia State Police Bomb Squad and Henrico County K-9 Unit.
Environmentalist Lois Gibbs urges Reynolds students to
protect their communities
Lois Gibbs, an American environmental activist and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, recently visited J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College to share her personal story of Love Canal, New York – an entire neighborhood built on a toxic waste dump that was declared the first environmental disaster area in the United States.
“The biggest lesson I learned was that it is not about science, it’s about politics,” said Gibbs.
As a resident and the homeowner’s association president of Love Canal, Gibbs fought for her family’s and neighbor’s relocation in 1978. She started her research after her son began suffering from asthma, epilepsy, urinary and liver problems; and her daughter was diagnosed with Leukemia. Gibbs discovered that her neighborhood and children’s school was built on 20,000 tons of toxic chemicals. She later discovered that more than half of the children born in her neighborhood were born with birth defects and that several women suffered miscarriages or stillbirths.
“Love Canal was 30 years ago. You think we would know better than to build schools on toxic dumps,” Gibbs said. “But it continues to happen. If you’re low income and a neighborhood of color, you’re expendable.”
The U.S. environmental law known as Superfund was created in 1980 in response to the Love Canal disaster. The Superfund law protects the public from abandoned toxic waste sites. Gibbs lives in Virginia and now serves as the executive director for the Center for Health, Environment and Justice – an organization that helps families and communities that are facing environmental risks.
Gibbs encouraged Reynolds students to recycle and discontinue using harmful or non-biodegradable products, such as plastics made with PVC - better known as vinyl. For more information, visit www.chej.org or www.pvcfree.org.
Middle College - an “extreme make-over” for many Richmonders
When JSRCC President Dr. Gary Rhodes asked a panel of Middle College graduates to rate the affect the Middle College program had on their lives, all eight panelists gave a maximum score of at least a 10.
At the program’s recent forum featuring graduates, the panel shared with current Middle College students, JSRCC faculty and staff and supporters of the program their success stories and how the Middle College gave their lives an extreme make-over.
Kevin, a Middle College graduate, took the event one step further. As the current make-up artist for clients Coca-Cola and the BET Network, Kevin performed an on-site make-over for one student – a hands-on demonstration of how his education is paying off.
“The Middle College changed my life and I know it can change yours too,” shared Kevin. “By getting my GED, I was able to go to New York City and to chase my dreams in the big city. Earning your GED can do the same for you.”
NaToya, a 2005 Middle College graduate, expressed how the college entry program gave her new hope. She recently completed the Certified Nursing Assistants program and is taking JSR classes towards becoming a licensed practical nurse.
LaVon shared how her GED opened the door to becoming an assistant manager at a local restaurant. “While being an assistant manager might not sound glamorous, it wouldn’t have been possible without my GED. I want you to know it’s tough out in the real world. And without your GED, it’s really tough. I’ve been there.”
Sherika served as the moderator of the forum that featured her fellow graduates. She received a round of applause from her husband and three children after sharing her exciting story of how she went from entering the Middle College with no job to now enjoying a full-time job with benefits allowing her to choose the doctors for her family.
The Middle College program is a Virginia Community College System initiative designed to offer a college opportunity to individuals between 18 and 24 who have not completed high school.
This college recovery program is designed for those individuals who have had a desire to pursue college coursework, but need to attain a GED certificate first. The Middle College has worked with 400 students since 2003, serving about 100 students each year. Currently about 75 students are expected to graduate from the program in May.
>> Click here to see more photos
A visit with friends from Ghana 
Reynolds hosted a welcoming reception for visitors from Ghana – Sunyani Polytechnic Rector, Professor Kwasi Nsiah-Gyabaah and Registrar Samuel Ankama Obour – who discussed possible exchange opportunities for students and faculty. Representatives of students and faculty from Reynolds and John Tyler Community College visited Sunyani Polytechnic Institute last year during a summer study abroad. Sunyani Polytechnic is a three-year college – similar to a U.S. community college.
The African American Image in American Media
In celebration of African American History Month, Reynolds Director of Marketing and Public Relations Malcolm Holmes presented images of African Americans in the
media and discussed the impact of those images on society. Holmes explored early advertising targeting African Americans – using broken English and grossly exaggerated caricatures to market household products. He presented familiar images like Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben to illustrate how African American figures were used in advertising and, in some cases, how their images progressed through the years. More recent African American spokespeople, such as Bill Cosby and Michael Jackson, began making millions on advertising in the 1970’s and 80’s. Holmes also notably referenced African American media pioneers such Ebony Magazine publisher John Johnson and Moss Hendrix, who opened a public relations firm in the 1940’s that grew to include Coca Cola and Ford Motors as clients.
Students thank College friends for their sweet support
On Valentine's Day, the Advancement team made surprise visits to a number of special friends of the College. These individuals were presented with gourmet chocolates made from Reynolds’ pastry arts students - an appropriate gift of appreciation for friends who help make the College so "sweet" for many Reynolds students. These friends make generous contributions to initiatives that benefit students like the Scholarship Program and Annual Fund.
Record number participates in Classified Council Scholarship Bowl 
The Classified Council would like to thank all that supported and participated in the recent JSRCC Scholarship Bowl. Nearly 120 enthusiastic faculty, staff, board members and supporters hit the lanes last Saturday to raise money for the College’s general scholarship fund. Special congratulations to Tim Wilson who won the high score award and to The Champions team who posted the best overall team score. The Text Kingpins came in 2nd-place, followed by The Fab 5 in 3rd-place. Again, thank you for your support and Lt. Branch, it is never too early to start practicing for next year!!!
>> Click here to see more photos
JSR Students visit General Assembly
A cadre of JSRCC students recently participated in “Community College Day” at the General Assembly. Strolling through the crowded hallways of the General Assembly Building, the students shared their personal stories with lawmakers.
Matthew Vinson told Delegate Frank Hargrove (R-Hanover) that he plans to graduate in May and transfer to the University of Virginia to become an engineer.
“I came to Reynolds after being home schooled, knowing I wasn’t ready to attend a big four-year university. Now, thanks to my experiences at J. Sarge, I’m properly prepared to continue my education,” said Vinson.
“I also know there isn’t a lot of money in this year’s budget, but I hope you will remember the importance of community colleges when making budget decisions over the next few weeks,” Vinson added.
Following the morning visits, the students walked to the Capitol Building where Delegate Jennifer McClellan (D-71st District) introduced them to the House of Delegates.
“That was my first time in the Capitol,” noted Nakesha Cole. “Being introduced to the entire House was really cool.” Cole graduates in May. She as been accepted into the International Business program at the College of William and Mary through the Guaranteed Admission Program and intends to enroll in the fall.
Additional delegates the students visited included, Chris Peace (R-97th District), G. Manoli Loupassi (R-68th District), John O’Bannon (R-73rd District), and McClellan.
>> Click here to see more photos
Reynolds professor discusses hearing loss and sign language on public radio
JSRCC American Sign Language and Interpreter Education Coordinator Bruce A. Sofinski joins University of Virginia Audiologist Mani Aguilar in an interview with Sarah McConnell from With Good Reason, a radio show broadcast in partnership with public radio stations in Virginia and Washington D.C. Their segment “Hear Today, Hear Tomorrow,” discusses hearing loss prevention and the popularity of American Sign Language.
>> Listen to the 
A Conversation With The Times-Dispatch
JSRCC President Dr. Gary L. Rhodes joined Virginia Commonwealth University President Dr. Eugene Trani for a discussion with members of the Richmond Times-Dispatch's editorial staff and newsroom.
Visit Inrich.com for an edited transcript from the January 20 Commentary Section
JSRCC hosts nursing completion ceremony
Over 150 nursing graduates from the nursing program recently participated
in the JSRCC Nursing Recognition Ceremony at Hanover High School. The program recognizes students recently completing the Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing. The ceremony opened with a welcome by JSRCC President Dr. Gary Rhodes and remarks Dean of School of Nursing and Allied Health Dr. Jean 
Donovan, followed by an inspirational keynote address from Reynolds alum and Assistant Professor Jamie Crosby, RN, MS.
Angela Starnes, a recent honors graduate, received the Frances B. Stanley Award, named in recognition of Emeritus Fran Stanley, RN, MS for her outstanding dedication to the college and the nursing profession. She retired from JSRCC after more than 33 years of service.
The Evelyn Bacon Award was presented to Connie Newton. The award was established in 1978 to honor Mrs. Bacon’s retirement and service as program head of nursing. This award recognizes outstanding academic performance (at least a 3.0 or higher), outstanding clinical performance and outstanding interpersonal skills. Documentation of leadership in the program and the community are also viewed as components of this award.
After the award presentation, graduates participated in the traditional candle lighting ceremony and recital of the Nurses’ Pledge. Following the program, graduates along with their family and friends, enjoyed a catered reception.
The Reynolds’ Nursing Program is designed to prepare its students to participate as collaborative members of nursing care teams and to provide direct care to patients in a variety of health service facilities and agencies. Upon satisfactory completion of the program, students are eligible to take the licensing examination to become a Registered Nurse.
Additional Award Winners
Fundamentals of Nursing - Kelly Hennessey
Beginning Medical Surgical - Mary Christine Schaffer
Psychiatric Mental Health - Ebony Smith
Maternal Child - Deborah Williams
Nursing of Children - Latasha Pegram
Advanced Medical Surgical – Mohammad Chaudri
>> Click here to see more photos
VCU guarantees transfer for Reynolds Engineering students
\Dean of Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Engineering Dr. Russell D. Jamison recently presented the University’s programs to Reynolds Engineering students – emphasizing the demand for engineers with well-rounded educations. Although engineering depends heavily on math and technology, he said it also requires creative thinking, communication and the ability to work in teams.
“With so many jobs being outsourced overseas, it is important to have an understanding of business and commerce,” Jamison said. “Companies want people who get it. So you need to know how to read a balance sheet if you want to be valuable to a company.”
In addition to opportunities to receive up to $3,500 a year in renewable scholarships, Jamison also reminded students about guaranteed admission agreements between VCU’s School of Engineering and JSRCC.
Reynolds History professor publishes “demonology” dissertation 
Dr. Thomas B. de Mayo’s dissertation “The Demonology of William of Auvergne: By Fire and Sword" has been published by The Edwin Mellen Press. Auvergne, a master of theology at the University of Paris and bishop of Paris from 1228 until his death in 1249, served as a major advisor to the young Louis IX. This book examines his demonology to determine why and how he constructed his theories out of contemporary lore about demons and other spirits. de Mayo, a full-time History professor at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, also recently had an article entitled "William of Auvergne and Popular Demonology" published in Quidditas, the online journal of the Rocky Mountain Medieval and Renaissance Association.
The article can be read online at http://humanities.byu.edu/rmmra/pdfs/28.pdf.
Reynolds President appointed to regional workforce task force
JSRCC President Dr. Gary L. Rhodes has been appointed by City of Richmond Mayor Doug Wilder to serve on a Regional Partnership Team – designed to develop a strategy for a regional workforce initiative and explore a regional workforce development area. In addition to providing governance and policy direction for regional alignment efforts, the team will explore merging the City of Richmond and the Capital Area Workforce Investment Boards. The task force’s work is scheduled to occur from January through July and will be facilitated by Dr. William Bosher, former Secretary of Education for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Success tips shared with new Reynolds students
New JSRCC students were welcomed at this spring semester’s Student Orientation Advising and Registration (SOAR) program, where existing students and faculty shared essential tips for a successful college career. In addition to receiving a full college orientation, attendees participated in The Reynolds Experience – an interactive game show that presented important information about financial aid, placement tests and registration. Students were later given campus tours.
“At Reynolds, we try to connect students to resources within the College that will help them meet their goals,” said Meg Buchanan Foster, Counselor for First Year Initiatives. “We’re always looking for opportunities to showcase our academic, advising, career and financial services.”
The SOAR program is administered through the Office of First Year Initiatives, which helps provide a successful start for new students at JSRCC through a variety of programs. For more information, call (804) 523-5917 or e-mail soar@reynolds.edu.
Students receive goodie bags for
exam week
Reynolds students received free exam packs this week from the Office of Student Life to help get through a busy and important part of the semester.
Essential goodie bag items included candy, highlighters, note cards, pencils and snacks.
Reynolds book discussion series continues with The Bastard of Instanbul
The College recently hosted another successful “Around the World Through 
Books” discussion featuring The Bastard of Istanbul, written by award-winning Turkish author Elif Shafak. In an engaging and passionate manner, Shafak unfolds the tragedy and roots of two families, one Turkish and one Armenian, who have been tied together since the 1915 Armenian deportations.
JSRCC Professors Dr. Mayda Topoushian and Dr. Ghazal Hashmi lead the discussion while Mediterranean refreshments were served.
The book discussions are free, community events sponsored by JSRCC’s Multicultural Enrichment Council for the purpose of encouraging cultural diversity throughout the Reynolds campuses and communities.
For more information visit www.reynolds.edu/book.
Community College Horticulture Students from across Virginia 
Help Decorate Governor’s Mansion for the Holidays
Richmond – Community college horticulture students from across the commonwealth spent the day at Virginia’s Executive Mansion, helping decorate the historic residence for the holiday season. First Lady Anne Holton greeted the students and thanked them for their hard work.
“It’s not every day you get to come in here and decorate,” said Sheryl Hall, a Virginia Western Community College horticulture student. “I could never turn down an opportunity to say I decorated the governor’s mansion.” “It’s a wonderful experience,” added Dena Parker, a student of J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College. “It’s a hands-on opportunity you carry with you.”
The students worked under the direction of Amy Bridge, the director of the Executive Mansion and Tommy Autry, owner of Tommy’s Garden in Richmond. The students assisted with several projects, including creating centerpieces, decorating the chairs of the grand dining room, and assembling the greens that will be hung throughout the mansion’s first floor.
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JSRCC participates in fitness walk
All three Reynolds campuses participated in a 15 minute fitness walk – part of Commonhealth’s Keep the Beat program to help prevent and control high blood pressure. Commonhealth is a Virginia resource that encourages healthy eating, exercise and lifestyles.
The Keep the Beat program provides tips on how to manage and prevent high blood pressure, offers blood pressure screenings and coordinates monthly challenges.
Anthony Booker is the College’s first Student LEAP Award grand prize winner
Anthony Booker, 22, is a student at the Middle College and recently received a Student LEAP Award for demonstrating one of the 11 positive learning environment behaviors. Award winners can redeem LEAP certificates at the Business Office for a $5 Wawa gift card. Each month, winners are pooled and a grand prize winner is drawn and receives a $25 gift card for Regal Cinemas.
JSRCC is committed to providing a positive learning environment in which all faculty, staff, and students can learn together in a setting that encourages the free exchange of ideas and information. To accomplish this goal, members of the college have established 11 expectations for learning. Faculty and staff members may award students for demonstrating one or more of the following principles: punctuality, courtesy, consideration, focus, accountability, participation, preparation, privacy, professionalism, respect and responsibility.
Reynolds Career, Employment, and Transfer Center partners with U.S. Navy and VUU marketing students to host Halloween Expo 
The J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Career, Employment and Transfer Center recently partnered with the U.S. Navy and students participating in the Virginia Union University Navy Marketing and Recruiting Internship Program to host a Halloween Expo on the Parham Road Campus. According to event organizer Eric Richie, the event was designed to create awareness of career opportunities in United States Navy. “Ultimately, representatives from the local Navy Recruiting District wanted to use the event as an opportunity to generate a list of "qualified" leads for future enlistment,” said Richie.
The Halloween Expo was the first of several events planned this semester by the 15 VUU students participating in the Navy internship program. The program is an industry-education partnership managed by Orinda, California based EdVenture Partners (EVP) that gives students an opportunity to apply their classroom work in real-world situations. EVP is the only marketing education consultancy in the United States that brings together educators, students, clients and their channel partners for mutual collaboration and benefit. Students from different Richmond area colleges are selected to participate in the program each year.
“I think the students had great turnout for their first event. They worked hard on the front- end and made the last minute adjustments necessary to make the event a success,” said Professor Antoinette Lloyd of Virginia Union University.
Congratulations PTK inductees
Reynolds recently inducted 62 students into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. With more than 1.3 million members and 1,100 chapters, PTK is the largest honor society in American higher education and is recognized as the official honor society for two-year colleges.
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JSRCC builds a community of stronger families
The Office of Student Life and the Early Childhood Develo
pment Department joined forces to offer
“A Community Building Stronger Families,”
a reading and crafts fair designed to recognize the many JSRCC students that juggle work, school and family. The fair included storytelling, crafts, healthy snack ideas and homework tips for both parents and kids. Every child also received a free, age-appropriate book as a give-away.
“It is kind of like a back-to-school night, except the kids get to see where their parents go to school,” said Student Life Coordinator Kemper Steele.
Community exhibitors included Read Aloud Virginia, Richmond Behavioral Health Authority and United Way Airs, a 2-1-1 service that connects people with important community programs and volunteer opportunities.
Author attempts to revive “wild fermentation” 
The JSRCC Sustainable Agriculture Club recently hosted an evening featuring Sandor Katz (aka Sandorkraut), a food fermentation revivalist, activist and author of Wild Fermentation: The Flavor, Nutrition, and Craft of Live-culture Foods. Katz travels widely to teach and promote food fermentation.
Fermentation creates compelling flavors, preserves food and adds nutrients. Katz shared the simplicity of fermenting food, presented the health benefits of kimchi, sauerkraut and other live-culture ferments, and discussed the diversity of fermented foods and drinks consumed around the world.
“We live in what I call a bubble of refrigeration,” said Katz. “But that is fairly new and still not available in many parts of the world. Fermentation is an ideal way for many cultures to get from seasons of relative abundance to seasons of relative scarcity…it is the most effective way to preserve nutrients in food.”
The most profound benefits of fermented foods, Katz says, are live cultures – natural bacteria that are essential for digestion. Flavor is another benefit of fermentation, although Katz admits that what is considered flavorful by some, others “wouldn’t touch.”
“What is a delicacy in some parts of the world, many people in this room would consider really scary,” he said.
The Sustainable Agriculture Club is part of the JSRCC Horticulture Program and emphasizes small-scale biointensive techniques that build soil and do not require large investments in machinery or equipment. For more information, contact Cindy Conner at 804.798.8456 or e-mail sunfieldva@aol.com.
Stories from the Middle College
What if there were no Middle College at Reynolds? Middle College graduate Sherika says before she came to Reynolds to earn her GED, “I didn’t have a job. I was on public assistance. We were bringing in $600 a month and spending $800 a month with 3 little kids.” Not only did Sherika earn her GED through the Reynolds Middle College, she went on to successfully take college classes at Reynolds. At a Middle College Forum in October, Sherika told students now enrolled in the program, “Last year I made $41,000 and social services told me I no longer qualify for assistance. That made a big difference to me. When my children grow up they’ll want to do better and they won’t settle.”
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10th Annual Scholarship Luncheon Creates Personal Connections
Since the College’s Scholarship Program began 
in 1983, nearly $3.5 million has been awarded to more than 2,000 students – removing one of the most common barriers to attending college. Recently, at the 10th Annual Scholarship Luncheon, scholarship benefactors were able to make personal connections and see first-hand how they have touched the lives of JSRCC student recipients.
“I’m not sure how I would have paid for college if it wasn’t for this scholarship,” said Laura Briere, 18, recipient of the Reynolds Family Legacy Scholarship. “I am taking one semester at a time.”
Briere is currently working full-time as a caregiver at a local daycare, taking four classes and working towards a degree in early childhood education. She is like many scholarship recipients – balancing work, family and school. Cherise James-Cobb, past recipient of the Lillian Amburgey Re-entry/Hermitage Women’s Scholarship, followed the scholarship’s benefactor, Stacy Person, on the dais.
“They say you can’t see the wind beneath your wings, but mine is right here,” said the mother of five to Person. “This has had a rippling effect on my family. My 19 year-old is now a student at Reynolds – all from one gush of wind.”
A key initiative of the College is to increase the number of scholarships available to students. For more student testimonials or information on scholarships and how you can help remove barriers for students contact the JSRCC Educational Foundation.
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Reynolds Book Discussion Series Continues with What is the What
The College recently hosted another successful “Around the World Through Books” discussion, featuring the Dave Eggers novel What Is the What: The Autobiography of Valentino Achak Deng. Based upon a real life story, What is the What walks readers through the life of a boy separated from his family after his village is destroyed in the Sudanese civil war.
The program is a free community event sponsored by JSRCC’s Multicultural Enrichment Committee for the purpose of encouraging cultural diversity throughout the Reynolds campuses and communities. The next book discussion is scheduled for November 29th from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Gallery and will feature Bastard of Istanbul by author Elif Shafak.
Forum features international exchange faculty from Netherlands
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Dr. Gary L. Rhodes, Frans van Eekelen, Bob Bogaard, Dr. Genene LeRosen |
What do college students in Amsterdam have in common with students attending J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College? With the exception of putting mayonnaise on French fries and taking public transportation or riding bicycles to class instead of driving cars, more than you might imagine.
International exchange faculty Frans van Eekelen and Bob Bogaard fielded a myriad of questions from Reynolds students at a forum recently held on the Parham Road Campus. The presenters covered a wide range of topical areas including global warming, immigration, transportation and state-supported public education. They also discussed universal
social issues like crime, literacy, racism and homelessness.
“Our country has a very diverse population,” said Bogaard. “But everyone has at least two languages and our literacy rate is close to 100 percent.”
When asked what he found most unusual about Reynolds, Eekelen reflected on the College’s establishment of a police department on campus. “That is very rare in Holland. We only have security officers at some colleges in what we would call bad areas,” he said.
Reynolds faculty members Barbara Steward and Steven Sowulewski are hosting Eekelen and Bogaard. Next year, Steward and Sowulewski will visit The Netherlands.
Learn more: http://www.holland.com/global/
Reynolds Faculty Studies Best Practices for Troubled Students
Several faculty and staff recently attended a webinar entitled “Responding to Troubled and At-Risk Students” to gain best practices in threat assessment and responding to troubled students. Gary Pavela, J.D., a faculty member at University of Maryland and Paul Joffee, Ph.D., clinical psychologist for the Counseling Center at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign were presenters.
The presenters used recent incidents of violence at other schools, colleges and universities, including Virginia Tech and Columbine as case studies for presenting best practices. Among the many pieces of advice given, Mr. Pavela strongly emphasized the importance of institutions creating a culture that actively engages students. “You have to get into their heads and into their hearts,” said Pavela about students. “Pay attention to your school and your campus culture.”
Dr. Ivan Harrell, coordinator for student affairs at JSRCC, emphasized how important it is for faculty and staff members to recognize students who may be troubled and at-risk. “There are some warning signs; but it can often be an isolated incident. Some students don’t necessarily understand what appropriate behavior is in an educational environment.” He further emphasized how important it is for faculty and staff to notify Police and Security Services when interacting with a student who may be exhibiting behavior that could be dangerous to him/herself or others. Police and Security Services and the Office of Student Affairs work very closely to address these types of situations and connect students with needed resources.
Faculty and staff are encouraged to contact the Office of Student Affairs at (804) 523-5296 if they have any questions about working with troubled or at-risk students. The handouts from the presentation can be found at: Reynolds.edu
Science Night presenters discuss bones, geology and geography at annual forum
If you attended the recent J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Science Night you came away being able to identify male and female bones and having a deeper appreciation for the landscape that stretches across the United States and Canada and the Galapagos Islands.
Reynolds Professor of Biology Dr. James H. Martin III opened the evening with his presentation “Real CSI – The Skeletal Remains.” Martin used male and female skulls and other bones to demonstrate how crime scene investigators determine the gender of human remains.
“I hope through my presentation people will watch crime shows like CSI and have an understanding of what really goes on during a crime investigation,” said Martin. “CSI is a fine show for entertainment, but tonight I’ll show that it isn’t very realistic.”
Following Martin, Associate Professor of Geology David H. Walz took the audience on a scenic tour of the North American continent. Using his personal photos, Waltz showed the diversified continent is full of arid deserts bounded by majestic, snow-covered mountain chains; rocky, shelly, and sandy shorelines; great, sinuous river systems; expansive, flat steppes; active, slow-moving glaciers; and semi-tropical and grassed savannahs.
“I’ve had some students tell me they have traveled all over Europe, but haven’t been past West Virginia,” said Walz. “There are some beautiful areas in North America and I hope to show the students they should see America first.”
Associate Professor of Natural Science James E. Ezell closed the program with his presentation “Expedition to the Galapagos.” Ezell shared experiences from his trip this past summer to the Galapagos Islands. During his presentation he described the unique and special characteristics of the islands' geology, flora and fauna.
“I want to share with the students the beauty of an untouched area,” said Ezell. “I want them to know there are still areas in the world that are largely still untouched by man.”
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Chancellor's taskforce on campus safety holds public hearing at Reynolds
The Chancellor's taskforce on campus safety held a public hearing this week at the Parham Road Campus. The dominant issues that surfaced were related to student mental health, classroom disruptions, and concealed weapons on campus. The hearing was the first of several taking place this week at community colleges around the Commonwealth. The taskforce will release its findings and recommendations early next year.
Reynolds Students Among City’s First Police Cadet Class
Nine JSRCC students are enrolled in a Police Cadet Program with the City of Richmond Police Department’s first cadet class. For the next three years, the cadets will attend classes as well as work in a civilian capacity with the police department. Students completing this certificate may transfer the credits to the Administration of Justice AAS program at Reynolds or transfer to VCU's Criminal Justice program.
“I want to be able to talk to people and change their perspective of how people in my neighborhood think of police,” said JSRCC student Daryl Goldsmith. “I want them to see that police officers are the same as us, but they care enough to enforce the laws and do what is right.”
The program is a pathway for those who wish to become police officers or to serve in some other capacity of law enforcement. It was developed to fill a critical shortage in law enforcement in Richmond and the surrounding areas. Students learn about issues pertaining to criminal justice and law enforcement in a modern society including law and order, police-citizen conflict, crime prevention, collecting evidence, conducting criminal investigations, the juvenile justice system, and the interface between police and other criminal justice agencies.
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Groover Published in Professional Journal
Richard Groover’s presentation paper entitled “Impact of an Environmental Science Class on College Students” has been published in Conference Proceedings, a journal of the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE). The publication contains keynote addresses, synopses of general sessions, workshops, and symposia, and submitted presentation papers from the largest annual international environmental education conference. Groover is an assistant professor of biology at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College.
According to its website, NAAEE is the professional association for environmental education. Members promote professional excellence in non-formal organizations, K-12 classrooms, universities (both instructors and students), government agencies, and corporate settings throughout North America and in over 55 other countries. Since 1971, the Association has created opportunities for its members to improve their skills in creating and delivering programs and services that teach people how to think, not what to think.
Students Cheer on Washington Redskins
Nearly two full busloads of Reynolds students and staff recently traveled to FedExField for the Washington Redskins tough loss against the New York Giants. The Redskins ended the first half leading the game 17-3, but struggled in the second half and were defeated 24-7.
Despite the loss, students were thrilled to witness an exciting game. For some, it was their first visit to FedExField.
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Police and Security Services Host Open House 
JSRCC Police and Security Services recently hosted an open house featuring facility tours, information on the College’s new emergency communications system and emergency procedures. Campus police operate the College’s 5911 emergency line and are available round-the-clock to assist students, faculty and staff.
"Our department strives to provide the safest environment we possibly can on each of our campuses,” said JSRCC Police Chief Garth Wheeler. “We have made many improvements over the past several years including a camera system downtown, sworn police personnel at each campus, a college safety program and most importantly - the emergency communications center which serves as the hub for a safer college community."
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New Criminal Justice Program to Address Law Enforcement Personnel Shortage
Press Center 
Scorched Earth, written by bestselling author and Richmond-area resident David L. Robbins. Robbins gave a vigorous and engaging presentation to more than 80 attendees by providing insights into his characters and novels, sound advice for aspiring writers and a lively demonstration of his own vivid personality. Attendees later had the opportunity to meet the author as he signed books and chatted with students.
The Office of Student Life recently celebrated the return of students back to campus by conducting welcome back parties on each Reynolds campus. The celebrations included free ice cream, pizza and drinks. Student also received a free JSRCC survival backpack full of school items that will assist them during the semester.
for the over 300,000 Virginians who suffer from asthma.