VC Pirates Men's Basketball News
At the end of June, the VC Pirates men’s basketball team signed two new players. Memorial High School’s Donte McGee will be joining the team along with Russell McElwee from Incarnate Word Academy in Corpus Christi.
Memorial's Donte McGee and Russell McElwee from Corpus Christi
McElwee and McGee sparring at the Boys and Girls Club.
Listen to what McGee, McElwee and Coach Anderson had to say:
In addition to signing two new players, head coach Jonathan Anderson announced that the VC Pirates men’s basketball team is partnering with the Boys and Girls Club in Victoria to create a basketball camp for the children who attend summer day camp and institute a mentoring program that will continue into the next school year.
Jonathan Anderson
The ongoing mentoring program will benefit the children who participate at the Boys and Girls Club and provide an enriching sports-related community service activity for VC’s basketball players.
Anderson puts heavy emphasis on both academics and citizenship for all his players and encourages them to take every opportunity to create a well-rounded college experience for themselves.
Basketball camp at the Boys & Girls Club.
Boys and girls practice ball handling skills at camp.
McElwee guards his "man."
In addition to the Boys and Girls Club basketball camp and mentoring program, the VC Pirates men's basketball team is also conducting a kids basketball camp on campus at VC.
Hear what VC Pirate A.J. Irwin had to say about the summer basketball camps for kids:
Kids Camp Basketball on campus at VC.
Boys and girls of all ages and sizes get one-on-one attention from VC basketball players. Here, Cameron Gomez encourages a mighty little girl as she practices ball handling.
Boys practice ball handling while running through a cone course on court.
What's more fun than playing all day? Clearly, the men's basketball team players have as much fun as the kids.
Coach Anderson demonstrates passing techniques.
Cameron Gomez practices passing techniques with his camper.
Tiny! But very, very fierce!
VC Night at the Ballpark
What's better on a summer evening than baseball at the ballpark?! This past week, VC students, faculty and staff gathered at Riverside Stadium, braving sultry South Texas heat and an army of hungry mosquitoes to enjoy watching the Victoria Generals take on the Brazos Valley Bombers.
And while baseball was the main attraction, there were plenty more events, announcements, recognitions, games and other shenanigans going on between innings to keep everyone amused.
Jennifer Yancey, VP of College Advancement, recognized "What's Your Story?" scholarship essay contest winner Beverly Ham and thanked all those who donate to the Victoria College Foundation for providing funding for scholarship opportunities for VC students.
As next year's teams are introduced, volleyball head coach Josh Moore stands with the VC Pirates women's volleyball team and members of the men's basketball team.
Regional Steel's Elton Calhoun threw out the first pitch.
VC music student Chris Hamelwright played the National Anthem on his trumpet to start the game.
"Dress the Pirate" was won by Distinguished Teaching Award winner Gail Janecka.
Here Russell McElwee does a do si do with his partner in the Chicken Dance.
In an upset victory, the Rootbeer Chugging Contest was won by brand new basketball team member and master chugger Brian Parks, besting last year's winner College Central Specialist Miroslava Gonzales.
Brian Parks
And check it out! You didn't completely miss the fun. VC Night at the Ballpark official shenanigans video courtesy of Julian Cavazos.
More photos!
VC Students had a great time at the game.
VC faculty members enjoyed the game and some irresistible ballpark food!
It was a great night to get out to the ballpark with friends and family.
...and perpetrate some shenanigans...
To see all the photos from VC Night at the Ballpark, be sure to visit the photo albums on the VC Facebook Fan Page. And please make plans to join us next year for another great VC Night at the Ballpark!
At the end of June, the VC Pirates men’s basketball team signed two new players. Memorial High School’s Donte McGee will be joining the team along with Russell McElwee from Incarnate Word Academy in Corpus Christi.
Memorial's Donte McGee and Russell McElwee from Corpus Christi
McElwee and McGee sparring at the Boys and Girls Club.
Listen to what McGee, McElwee and Coach Anderson had to say:
In addition to signing two new players, head coach Jonathan Anderson announced that the VC Pirates men’s basketball team is partnering with the Boys and Girls Club in Victoria to create a basketball camp for the children who attend summer day camp and institute a mentoring program that will continue into the next school year.
Jonathan Anderson
The ongoing mentoring program will benefit the children who participate at the Boys and Girls Club and provide an enriching sports-related community service activity for VC’s basketball players.
Anderson puts heavy emphasis on both academics and citizenship for all his players and encourages them to take every opportunity to create a well-rounded college experience for themselves.
Basketball camp at the Boys & Girls Club.
Boys and girls practice ball handling skills at camp.
McElwee guards his "man."
In addition to the Boys and Girls Club basketball camp and mentoring program, the VC Pirates men's basketball team is also conducting a kids basketball camp on campus at VC.
Hear what VC Pirate A.J. Irwin had to say about the summer basketball camps for kids:
Kids Camp Basketball on campus at VC.
Boys and girls of all ages and sizes get one-on-one attention from VC basketball players. Here, Cameron Gomez encourages a mighty little girl as she practices ball handling.
Boys practice ball handling while running through a cone course on court.
What's more fun than playing all day? Clearly, the men's basketball team players have as much fun as the kids.
Coach Anderson demonstrates passing techniques.
Cameron Gomez practices passing techniques with his camper.
Tiny! But very, very fierce!
VC Night at the Ballpark
What's better on a summer evening than baseball at the ballpark?! This past week, VC students, faculty and staff gathered at Riverside Stadium, braving sultry South Texas heat and an army of hungry mosquitoes to enjoy watching the Victoria Generals take on the Brazos Valley Bombers.
And while baseball was the main attraction, there were plenty more events, announcements, recognitions, games and other shenanigans going on between innings to keep everyone amused.
Jennifer Yancey, VP of College Advancement, recognized "What's Your Story?" scholarship essay contest winner Beverly Ham and thanked all those who donate to the Victoria College Foundation for providing funding for scholarship opportunities for VC students.
As next year's teams are introduced, volleyball head coach Josh Moore stands with the VC Pirates women's volleyball team and members of the men's basketball team.
Regional Steel's Elton Calhoun threw out the first pitch.
VC music student Chris Hamelwright played the National Anthem on his trumpet to start the game.
"Dress the Pirate" was won by Distinguished Teaching Award winner Gail Janecka.
Here Russell McElwee does a do si do with his partner in the Chicken Dance.
In an upset victory, the Rootbeer Chugging Contest was won by brand new basketball team member and master chugger Brian Parks, besting last year's winner College Central Specialist Miroslava Gonzales.
Brian Parks
And check it out! You didn't completely miss the fun. VC Night at the Ballpark official shenanigans video courtesy of Julian Cavazos.
More photos!
VC Students had a great time at the game.
VC faculty members enjoyed the game and some irresistible ballpark food!
It was a great night to get out to the ballpark with friends and family.
...and perpetrate some shenanigans...
To see all the photos from VC Night at the Ballpark, be sure to visit the photo albums on the VC Facebook Fan Page. And please make plans to join us next year for another great VC Night at the Ballpark!
Elizabeth Gilbert among lineup of speakers featured in upcoming Lyceum lecture series
The Victoria College Lyceum Lecture Series for the upcoming academic year will feature three popular, successful writers and a motivational speaker with a remarkable and inspiring story.
“The Lyceum committee put a great deal of care and research into selecting guest speakers for the upcoming series who are well-known and popular and whose topics will address some of the most relevant and contemporary themes in today’s society,” said Lyceum committee chairman Dave Ticen. “This year, the committee solicited suggestions and feedback from VC students and the community. Speakers were selected based on this feedback and for their particular appeal to our audience.”
Dave Ticen
Lyceum Committee Chair
The series begins on Thursday, October 7 at noon with writer/cartoonist Hector Cantu, co-creator of the comic strip “Baldo,” which is syndicated in newspapers nationwide. Baldo is a Hispanic teenager who lives, loves and learns amongst his colorful Hispanic family, including younger sister Gracie, father Sergio and the irrepressible Tia Carmen. Cantu and his business partner Carlos Castellanos created “Baldo” to give a voice to the Latino culture using a medium that does not commonly feature diverse role models.
Baldo strip July 15, 2010
By harnessing the power of stereotypes, Cantu’s “Baldo” is a gentle and humorous examination of the many ways Hispanic culture is unique while also demonstrating that Baldo’s experiences are universally recognizable to any American teen. Cantu will talk about embracing stereotypes and celebrating Hispanic culture in this country and in particular, Hispanic youth.
Hector Cantu
Writer/journalist Pete Earley is scheduled to speak on Monday, November 16 at 7:30 p.m. While working as a journalist at The Washington Post in the early 1980s, Earley struggled to help his son deal with debilitating mental illness. Published in 2006, his book, “Crazy: A Father’s Search through America’s Mental Health Madness,” details the incredible obstacles he had to overcome in seeking the appropriate treatment for his son.
Click the image to find out more about the book
Along the way, Earley discovered that tens of thousands of those incarcerated in this nation’s prisons have a documented mental illness. He’ll share what he learned about the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness along with the importance of decriminalizing and overcoming the stigma of mental illness.
Pete Earley
VC has partnered with the Gulf Bend Mental Health and Mental Retardation Center to bring Earley to Victoria in an effort help raise awareness of mental health issues in the community.
New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Gilbert is scheduled to speak on Wednesday, March 30 at noon. Gilbert’s intimate memoir, “Eat, Pray, Love,” has recently been adapted into a major motion picture starring Julia Roberts. The movie is scheduled to be released on Friday, August 13.
Click the image to find out more about the book
Gilbert’s inspiring memoir chronicles her journey to overcome the crushing loneliness and depression she experienced in the aftermath of a lengthy and contentious divorce. Throughout her travels to Italy, India and Indonesia, she managed to rediscover the simple pleasures in life, connect with her own spiritual source of hope and balance and, finally, find love again. She’ll share the secrets of her successful career as a writer and the important elements she discovered are important in the process toward self-discovery.
Elizabeth Gilbert
VC is partnering with the Victoria Public Library’s Victoria Reads program, which encourages the entire community to read together and engage in useful dialog regarding the themes presented in the book. More joint events related to Gilbert’s visit will be announced early next year.
Jim Morris, scheduled to speak on Thursday, April 28 at 9 a.m., is best known as the inspiration for the Disney movie “The Rookie” starring Dennis Quaid. Morris always dreamed of becoming a Major League Baseball player, but after several unsuccessful tries and a number of injuries while playing in the minor leagues, he found contentment with his suburban family while coaching high school baseball. In the late 1990s he promised his team that if they won the District Championship, he would try out for a Major League Baseball team. After his team won, he kept his end of the bargain by throwing twelve consecutive 98-mph fastballs during his tryout. As a result, he was offered a contract as a relief pitcher for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays at the age of 35.
Click the image to find out more about the movie
Even though he played with the Devil Rays for less than a year, Morris did something many people only hope for: he achieved a life-long dream. He will share his inspirational story of overcoming failure and how perseverance and heart can help anyone achieve their dreams.
Jim Morris
“The Lyceum committee has done an exemplary job of selecting speakers for the upcoming series that will be relevant and engaging to both VC’s students and the community,” said VC President Dr. Tom Butler. “I’m very proud that VC will be hosting such popular and appealing guests that will continue to provide the level of outstanding intellectual and cultural enrichment that the community has come to expect over the years.”
VC President Dr. Tom Butler
The free lectures will be held in the VC Fine Arts Auditorium and are open to the public.
The Victoria College Lyceum Lecture Series for the upcoming academic year will feature three popular, successful writers and a motivational speaker with a remarkable and inspiring story.
“The Lyceum committee put a great deal of care and research into selecting guest speakers for the upcoming series who are well-known and popular and whose topics will address some of the most relevant and contemporary themes in today’s society,” said Lyceum committee chairman Dave Ticen. “This year, the committee solicited suggestions and feedback from VC students and the community. Speakers were selected based on this feedback and for their particular appeal to our audience.”
Dave Ticen
Lyceum Committee Chair
The series begins on Thursday, October 7 at noon with writer/cartoonist Hector Cantu, co-creator of the comic strip “Baldo,” which is syndicated in newspapers nationwide. Baldo is a Hispanic teenager who lives, loves and learns amongst his colorful Hispanic family, including younger sister Gracie, father Sergio and the irrepressible Tia Carmen. Cantu and his business partner Carlos Castellanos created “Baldo” to give a voice to the Latino culture using a medium that does not commonly feature diverse role models.
Baldo strip July 15, 2010
By harnessing the power of stereotypes, Cantu’s “Baldo” is a gentle and humorous examination of the many ways Hispanic culture is unique while also demonstrating that Baldo’s experiences are universally recognizable to any American teen. Cantu will talk about embracing stereotypes and celebrating Hispanic culture in this country and in particular, Hispanic youth.
Hector Cantu
Writer/journalist Pete Earley is scheduled to speak on Monday, November 16 at 7:30 p.m. While working as a journalist at The Washington Post in the early 1980s, Earley struggled to help his son deal with debilitating mental illness. Published in 2006, his book, “Crazy: A Father’s Search through America’s Mental Health Madness,” details the incredible obstacles he had to overcome in seeking the appropriate treatment for his son.
Click the image to find out more about the book
Along the way, Earley discovered that tens of thousands of those incarcerated in this nation’s prisons have a documented mental illness. He’ll share what he learned about the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness along with the importance of decriminalizing and overcoming the stigma of mental illness.
Pete Earley
VC has partnered with the Gulf Bend Mental Health and Mental Retardation Center to bring Earley to Victoria in an effort help raise awareness of mental health issues in the community.
New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Gilbert is scheduled to speak on Wednesday, March 30 at noon. Gilbert’s intimate memoir, “Eat, Pray, Love,” has recently been adapted into a major motion picture starring Julia Roberts. The movie is scheduled to be released on Friday, August 13.
Click the image to find out more about the book
Gilbert’s inspiring memoir chronicles her journey to overcome the crushing loneliness and depression she experienced in the aftermath of a lengthy and contentious divorce. Throughout her travels to Italy, India and Indonesia, she managed to rediscover the simple pleasures in life, connect with her own spiritual source of hope and balance and, finally, find love again. She’ll share the secrets of her successful career as a writer and the important elements she discovered are important in the process toward self-discovery.
Elizabeth Gilbert
VC is partnering with the Victoria Public Library’s Victoria Reads program, which encourages the entire community to read together and engage in useful dialog regarding the themes presented in the book. More joint events related to Gilbert’s visit will be announced early next year.
Jim Morris, scheduled to speak on Thursday, April 28 at 9 a.m., is best known as the inspiration for the Disney movie “The Rookie” starring Dennis Quaid. Morris always dreamed of becoming a Major League Baseball player, but after several unsuccessful tries and a number of injuries while playing in the minor leagues, he found contentment with his suburban family while coaching high school baseball. In the late 1990s he promised his team that if they won the District Championship, he would try out for a Major League Baseball team. After his team won, he kept his end of the bargain by throwing twelve consecutive 98-mph fastballs during his tryout. As a result, he was offered a contract as a relief pitcher for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays at the age of 35.
Click the image to find out more about the movie
Even though he played with the Devil Rays for less than a year, Morris did something many people only hope for: he achieved a life-long dream. He will share his inspirational story of overcoming failure and how perseverance and heart can help anyone achieve their dreams.
Jim Morris
“The Lyceum committee has done an exemplary job of selecting speakers for the upcoming series that will be relevant and engaging to both VC’s students and the community,” said VC President Dr. Tom Butler. “I’m very proud that VC will be hosting such popular and appealing guests that will continue to provide the level of outstanding intellectual and cultural enrichment that the community has come to expect over the years.”
VC President Dr. Tom Butler
The free lectures will be held in the VC Fine Arts Auditorium and are open to the public.
Recently, VC's Adult Education Program held its National Adult Education Honor Society Induction Ceremony to honor exceptional Adult Education students.
Adult Education Director Stacey Weaver addresses students and families at the NAEHS Induction Ceremony.
Adult education staff wait onstage to present each inductee with an NAEHS pin. Inductees also got a certificate and formal letters of recommendation for use when applying for employment.
The NAEHS recognizes adult education students who demonstrate dedication and perseverance in achieving their educational goals. Adult education staff members typically nominate students who exhibit dependable attendance, a cooperative and positive attitude and an honorable work ethic along with the appropriate class preparation, participation, homework completion and the ability to set and reach their own goals.
Each inducted was called up onstage to receive their NAEHS pin from the appropriate staff member.
Inductees families watched (and in this case, even participated) with pride as their loved ones were honored for their extraordinary dedication and hard work.
Congratulations to all the students who were inducted into the National Adult Education Honor Society. You have a lot to be proud of and go with our best wishes as you meet a future that your own perseverance and dedication has made even brighter and more promising for yourselves and your families.
2010 NAEHS Inductees.
Adult Education Director Stacey Weaver addresses students and families at the NAEHS Induction Ceremony.
Adult education staff wait onstage to present each inductee with an NAEHS pin. Inductees also got a certificate and formal letters of recommendation for use when applying for employment.
The NAEHS recognizes adult education students who demonstrate dedication and perseverance in achieving their educational goals. Adult education staff members typically nominate students who exhibit dependable attendance, a cooperative and positive attitude and an honorable work ethic along with the appropriate class preparation, participation, homework completion and the ability to set and reach their own goals.
Each inducted was called up onstage to receive their NAEHS pin from the appropriate staff member.
Inductees families watched (and in this case, even participated) with pride as their loved ones were honored for their extraordinary dedication and hard work.
Congratulations to all the students who were inducted into the National Adult Education Honor Society. You have a lot to be proud of and go with our best wishes as you meet a future that your own perseverance and dedication has made even brighter and more promising for yourselves and your families.
2010 NAEHS Inductees.
Last Thursday Art Professor Debra Chronister invited current and former students to participate in the Flower Power Throwing Hour in order to raise money to help pay for students to attend the National Council on the Education of Ceramic Arts conference in Florida next March 30 through April 2.
In addition to making ceramic flowers to sell, the fundraising event's theme included wearing tie-dyed clothing and making flower crowns from fresh flowers.
Here, Eva Cavazos creates her own flower crown.
The conference helps broaden art students' artistic horizons with the opportunity to travel and attend a national art event, but also helps them gain experience, confidence and gives them the opportunity to make new friends and network with other art students from around the country.
Video by Julian Cavazos
Chronister said that more than 30 flowers were made that will be for sale at $20 each after they've been thoroughly dried, glazed and fired.
The flowers will be colorful and decorative lawn ornaments. Pictured here are two examples of what the flowers will look like, only much more vivid once they've been fired and assembled onto a garden stake.
Some flowers may also be on display in the Museum of the Coastal Bend gift shop, Texana Furniture and possibly at Santa Rosa Pottery in downtown Victoria.
Chronister gets ready to "throw" some clay and demonstrate how to make a flower.
Ceramics student Sarah Smith demonstrates the "spin" technique where she dots on wet colored clay called engobe and then spins the pottery wheel to sling the wet engobe out into a splatter pattern.
Dried corn on cobs was used to help create the bumpy texture for the flower capitulum.
Stay tuned on the Pirate Blarghhhh for more updates on the results of the Flower Power Throwing Hour. There will be more photos posted after all the flowers have been completed and updates on how much money is raised through their sales to help students attend the NCECA conference.
Thursday also marked the beginning of the Korean War Conference in commemoration of the 60th Anniversary of the start of the Korean War.
A full day of enriching and enlightening seminars began on Thursday morning, but later that evening, conference attendees, Korean War veterans and their families were invited to join conference organizers including VC/UHV Library staff, MCB Staff and other VC faculty, staff, administration and members of VC's Board of Trustees along with Mayor Armstrong and Brother Gary Moses in welcoming the conference's two guests of honor: PBS Newshour host, journalist, writer and VC alumnus Jim Lehrer and Pulitzer Prize nominee Bill Sloan. Veterans also got the chance to browse the Korean War photos exhibit displayed in the museum.
Korean War veterans look through old photos chronicling their activities and locations during the war in the early 1950s.
Here, VC Board of Trustees member Kay McHaney talks with retired VC history professor and conference organizer Charles Spurlin.
VC President Dr. Tom Butler gets a first-hand account of this veteran's activities during the Korean War.
Nationally-renowned journalist, writer and former VC student, Jim Lehrer, signs books for conference attendees.
Jim Lehrer and Pulitzer Prize nominated author Bill Sloan sign books and talk with Korean War veterans.
This veteran also enjoys the museum's historical exhibits.
On Friday, the Korean War Conference banquet featuring Jim Lehrer as guest speaker and VC Professor of History, Dr. Michael Hummel as Master of Ceremonies, concluded the second day of seminars and presentations.
During the banquet, VC student James Soto was awarded the $1,000 Jim Lehrer Journalism Scholarship for 2010 presented by Jim Lehrer himself.
Jim Lehrer with James Soto.
Jim Lehrer jokes with Dr. Hummel during his banquet address.
The Korean War Conference ended Saturday at UHV with a luncheon for author Bill Sloan who discussed his Pulitzer Prize nominated book The Darkest Summer: The First Three Months of the Korean War.
In addition to making ceramic flowers to sell, the fundraising event's theme included wearing tie-dyed clothing and making flower crowns from fresh flowers.
Here, Eva Cavazos creates her own flower crown.
The conference helps broaden art students' artistic horizons with the opportunity to travel and attend a national art event, but also helps them gain experience, confidence and gives them the opportunity to make new friends and network with other art students from around the country.
Video by Julian Cavazos
Chronister said that more than 30 flowers were made that will be for sale at $20 each after they've been thoroughly dried, glazed and fired.
The flowers will be colorful and decorative lawn ornaments. Pictured here are two examples of what the flowers will look like, only much more vivid once they've been fired and assembled onto a garden stake.
Some flowers may also be on display in the Museum of the Coastal Bend gift shop, Texana Furniture and possibly at Santa Rosa Pottery in downtown Victoria.
Chronister gets ready to "throw" some clay and demonstrate how to make a flower.
Ceramics student Sarah Smith demonstrates the "spin" technique where she dots on wet colored clay called engobe and then spins the pottery wheel to sling the wet engobe out into a splatter pattern.
Dried corn on cobs was used to help create the bumpy texture for the flower capitulum.
Stay tuned on the Pirate Blarghhhh for more updates on the results of the Flower Power Throwing Hour. There will be more photos posted after all the flowers have been completed and updates on how much money is raised through their sales to help students attend the NCECA conference.
Thursday also marked the beginning of the Korean War Conference in commemoration of the 60th Anniversary of the start of the Korean War.
A full day of enriching and enlightening seminars began on Thursday morning, but later that evening, conference attendees, Korean War veterans and their families were invited to join conference organizers including VC/UHV Library staff, MCB Staff and other VC faculty, staff, administration and members of VC's Board of Trustees along with Mayor Armstrong and Brother Gary Moses in welcoming the conference's two guests of honor: PBS Newshour host, journalist, writer and VC alumnus Jim Lehrer and Pulitzer Prize nominee Bill Sloan. Veterans also got the chance to browse the Korean War photos exhibit displayed in the museum.
Korean War veterans look through old photos chronicling their activities and locations during the war in the early 1950s.
Here, VC Board of Trustees member Kay McHaney talks with retired VC history professor and conference organizer Charles Spurlin.
VC President Dr. Tom Butler gets a first-hand account of this veteran's activities during the Korean War.
Nationally-renowned journalist, writer and former VC student, Jim Lehrer, signs books for conference attendees.
Jim Lehrer and Pulitzer Prize nominated author Bill Sloan sign books and talk with Korean War veterans.
This veteran also enjoys the museum's historical exhibits.
On Friday, the Korean War Conference banquet featuring Jim Lehrer as guest speaker and VC Professor of History, Dr. Michael Hummel as Master of Ceremonies, concluded the second day of seminars and presentations.
During the banquet, VC student James Soto was awarded the $1,000 Jim Lehrer Journalism Scholarship for 2010 presented by Jim Lehrer himself.
Jim Lehrer with James Soto.
Jim Lehrer jokes with Dr. Hummel during his banquet address.
The Korean War Conference ended Saturday at UHV with a luncheon for author Bill Sloan who discussed his Pulitzer Prize nominated book The Darkest Summer: The First Three Months of the Korean War.
Did you know?!
The Victoria College Police Academy was recognized by the Houston FBI Field Office for conducting an anti-terrorism training seminar.
Wow!
Congratulations to VC Police Academy Director James Martinez and huge thanks to VC's Industrial Programs Secretary Shirley Pullin who worked hard to make the seminar a success.
Click the image to read more!
Did you also know!?!
Four healthcare professionals in El Campo recently made a big impression in their community by organizing a successful community service project as part of their participation in the Area Health Education Center Professional Corps. Pecan Valley AHEC sponsored the project for these AHEC Professional Corps volunteers.
The AHEC Professional Corps helps healthcare professionals who have educational loans repay their loans. Local healthcare industry employers can provide this incentive that offers employees the opportunity to earn $4,750 toward their educational loans at the end of a year of service and successful completion of a sponsored community service project.
Ray Fore, Jessica Hopper, Laura Williams and Gwynn Wigginton combined their efforts to organize the El Campo Meltdown project.
The entire El Campo community got involved, including local restaurants that began offering special “lighter fare” menu items for meltdown participants. Participants also organized walking groups and got their children involved in healthy eating habits and activities.
Click the image to read more!
Also! Congratulations to VC music student Chris Hamelwright!
Trumpet player Hamelwright has been awarded the Clara F. Nelson scholarship from the Texas Association of Music Schools organization. He will receive $2,000 for the 2010-2011 academic year at VC and will continue to be awarded $5,000 per academic year after he transfers to a 4-year institution to complete his bachelor’s degree.
Click the image to read more!
And finally... did you know??
Thanks also to Pecan Valley AHEC, seventeen local high school students got to spend three days earlier this week exploring healthcare careers at local hospitals and at VC.
The students got the chance to speak directly with healthcare professionals at Victoria hospitals to learn more about careers in healthcare in a variety of professional settings. Students also got information to help them develop a plan for reaching their career goals and were encouraged to explore beyond the basics and do further research gathering information on what they need to do in order to enter a healthcare field.
Campers got to participate in hands-on health labs in nursing, medical lab technology and respiratory therapy in the state-of-the-art Health Sciences Center simulation labs.
They also had the opportunity to visit and observe hospital departmental activities in physical therapy, radiology and the pharmacy.
Click the image to read more!
The Victoria College Police Academy was recognized by the Houston FBI Field Office for conducting an anti-terrorism training seminar.
Wow!
Congratulations to VC Police Academy Director James Martinez and huge thanks to VC's Industrial Programs Secretary Shirley Pullin who worked hard to make the seminar a success.
Click the image to read more!
Did you also know!?!
Four healthcare professionals in El Campo recently made a big impression in their community by organizing a successful community service project as part of their participation in the Area Health Education Center Professional Corps. Pecan Valley AHEC sponsored the project for these AHEC Professional Corps volunteers.
The AHEC Professional Corps helps healthcare professionals who have educational loans repay their loans. Local healthcare industry employers can provide this incentive that offers employees the opportunity to earn $4,750 toward their educational loans at the end of a year of service and successful completion of a sponsored community service project.
Ray Fore, Jessica Hopper, Laura Williams and Gwynn Wigginton combined their efforts to organize the El Campo Meltdown project.
The entire El Campo community got involved, including local restaurants that began offering special “lighter fare” menu items for meltdown participants. Participants also organized walking groups and got their children involved in healthy eating habits and activities.
Click the image to read more!
Also! Congratulations to VC music student Chris Hamelwright!
Trumpet player Hamelwright has been awarded the Clara F. Nelson scholarship from the Texas Association of Music Schools organization. He will receive $2,000 for the 2010-2011 academic year at VC and will continue to be awarded $5,000 per academic year after he transfers to a 4-year institution to complete his bachelor’s degree.
Click the image to read more!
And finally... did you know??
Thanks also to Pecan Valley AHEC, seventeen local high school students got to spend three days earlier this week exploring healthcare careers at local hospitals and at VC.
The students got the chance to speak directly with healthcare professionals at Victoria hospitals to learn more about careers in healthcare in a variety of professional settings. Students also got information to help them develop a plan for reaching their career goals and were encouraged to explore beyond the basics and do further research gathering information on what they need to do in order to enter a healthcare field.
Campers got to participate in hands-on health labs in nursing, medical lab technology and respiratory therapy in the state-of-the-art Health Sciences Center simulation labs.
They also had the opportunity to visit and observe hospital departmental activities in physical therapy, radiology and the pharmacy.
Click the image to read more!
All the news and photos about all the events this week at VC:
On Tuesday the four winners of the "What's Your Story?" scholarship essay contest enjoyed breakfast with VC administration, faculty and staff along with VC Foundation Board members and members of the VC Board of Trustees. Scholarship winners got the chance to read their essays and had the opportunity to meet and thank many of the donors who give so generously to provide funding for these scholarships.
From L to R: Manuel Macomo, Beverly Ham, VC President Dr. Tom Butler, Veronica Lopez and Mina Hegaard.
Each winner was introduced by a member of the VC Foundation Board. Steve Hipes, Josie Rivera, Robby Burdge and LuAnn O’Connor all remarked on how impressed they were with the stories these students shared, at the amount of courage and determination each student demonstrated and how much their lives have been transformed as a result of their education at VC.
In sharing their stories, each of these students told of the difficulties and disadvantages they have had to overcome and how attending VC has made all the difference in their pursuit of education in reaching their goals.
VC Foundation Board Member LuAnn O'Connor introduces WYS winner Beverly Ham.
Beverly talked about coloring Easter eggs, processing turkey and commercial sewing before attending VC. Now she's headed toward the Respiratory Care Program.
VC Foundation Board and Board of Trustees member Dr. Josie Rivera introduces WYS winner Mina Hegaard.
Mina talked about the differences between Victoria and Los Angeles and how fulfilled she is personally and culturally as a result of attending VC thanks to both the history and fine arts programs.
President of the VC Foundation Board Steve Hipes introduces Veronica Lopez.
Born in El Salvador, as a young girl Veronica moved with her family to Victoria to escape civil war. She found friends and a rewarding career as a result of attending VC and is proud that she can serve as a role model for her children.
VC Foundation Board and Board of Trustees member Robby Burdge introduces Manuel Macomo.
Manuel Macomo tells a remarkable story of how he came to live with a family in Shiner from an orphanage in Mozambique, Africa and how much attending VC has transformed his life. Not only providing him with an education, but in opening up new vistas of possibility he never dreamed possible.
Congratulations to all the "What's Your Story?" winners and tremendous gratitude and appreciation for all those in the Victoria community who donate to the Victoria College Foundation so that students like these can get the help they need to reach their dreams.
Also on Tuesday, Dr. Butler, along with other VC officials met at Memorial High School to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Victoria Independent School District that will pave the way toward opening College Access Resource (CARS) Centers on both (future) campuses of Memorial High School.
Dr. Butler and VISD Superintendent Bob Moore sign the agreement witnessed by Kim Motley of VISD, Melissa Robinson and Florinda Correa of VC, Nancy McCord and Mima Gonzalez both VISD Assistant Superintendents, Kim Smith and Vince Ortiz of VC and MHS Principal Greg Crockett.
The creation of CARS Centers is one of several important parts of the collaboration among VC and area school districts funded by a Title V Federal Grant awarded to VC earlier this year.
CARS Centers will also open at both Gonzales High School and Calhoun County High School.
Some of the benefits offered through CARS Centers include college entrance testing, career exploration and other assessments that will help establish and enhance a student’s academic skills. Non-academic skills such as time management and effective note-taking along with study and test taking skills will also be addressed.
A VC pre-college advisor will be available in each CARS Center to assist students throughout the school year. Students will also have access to computers so that they may explore additional information on colleges and universities, careers, scholarships and financial aid.
Parents are also invited to visit CARS Centers on these high school campuses.
Wednesday was Staff Professional Development day on campus at VC presented by Staff Council. Staff members gathered to renew friendships and acquaintances, network with each other and improve their professional skills by attending a variety of seminars.
Breakfast began with Dr. Butler talking about the activities of the local education council and how those efforts will impact VC, along with state budgeting issues and what VC is doing to increase enrollment.
He also reminded staff that while recruitment efforts are very important to increasing enrollment, keeping current students is just as important and that all VC staff play a critical role in helping students find the balance they need to continue pursuing their education.
The morning's activities also included a speaker from Blue Cross Blue Shield explaining how to take advantage of insurance services.
After breakfast, VC employees attended a variety of seminars including Personal Safety, MS Office 2007 Basics and Stress Management and Relaxation.
One of the most popular seminars was Personal Safety conducted by Lt. Chris Garcia. Here, staff members practice shouting "Stop! Stop! Stop!" while using their elbows to deter potential attackers.
Lt. Garcia shares his self-defense techniques with VC staff.
Here Lt. Garcia bravely serves as a practice "attacker" to show staff member Cindi Henderson how an elbow to the upper chest could deter an attacker.
The second most popular seminar was Stress-Reduction and Relaxation conducted by Mary Mayes and Jodi Sanders. Here, Mary Mayes demonstrates deep breathing relaxation techniques.
These staff members are getting expert instruction from Janet Weaver on the use of MS Office 2007.
After enjoying more time for friendship and networking along with a catered lunch, motivational speaker Jeph Burnett reminded everyone that time is far more precious than money and encouraged everyone to find their passion by sharing his Grandpa's good advice: "The world owes you a living, but you have to go out and get it."
In the afternoon, employees got the chance to attend more seminars including Dress for Success, Customer Service, First Aid/CPR, Team Building and Communication, and Personal Enrichment.
On Thursday evening, both the day and evening Police Academy classes celebrated graduation. Not only did these fine men and women graduate from the VC Police Academy, but every one of them passed their TCLEOSE certification exam.
Congratulations to the Day Program Police Academy graduating class.
Congratulations to the Evening Program Police Academy graduating class.
Good luck and best wishes to you all in your future endeavors.
Remember! starting next week, VC business hours will switch to the summer schedule:
Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
In the meantime, have a safe and relaxing holiday weekend.
Keep an eye on the VC Facebook Fan Page for announcements about all the events coming up next week at VC.
On Tuesday the four winners of the "What's Your Story?" scholarship essay contest enjoyed breakfast with VC administration, faculty and staff along with VC Foundation Board members and members of the VC Board of Trustees. Scholarship winners got the chance to read their essays and had the opportunity to meet and thank many of the donors who give so generously to provide funding for these scholarships.
From L to R: Manuel Macomo, Beverly Ham, VC President Dr. Tom Butler, Veronica Lopez and Mina Hegaard.
Each winner was introduced by a member of the VC Foundation Board. Steve Hipes, Josie Rivera, Robby Burdge and LuAnn O’Connor all remarked on how impressed they were with the stories these students shared, at the amount of courage and determination each student demonstrated and how much their lives have been transformed as a result of their education at VC.
In sharing their stories, each of these students told of the difficulties and disadvantages they have had to overcome and how attending VC has made all the difference in their pursuit of education in reaching their goals.
VC Foundation Board Member LuAnn O'Connor introduces WYS winner Beverly Ham.
Beverly talked about coloring Easter eggs, processing turkey and commercial sewing before attending VC. Now she's headed toward the Respiratory Care Program.
VC Foundation Board and Board of Trustees member Dr. Josie Rivera introduces WYS winner Mina Hegaard.
Mina talked about the differences between Victoria and Los Angeles and how fulfilled she is personally and culturally as a result of attending VC thanks to both the history and fine arts programs.
President of the VC Foundation Board Steve Hipes introduces Veronica Lopez.
Born in El Salvador, as a young girl Veronica moved with her family to Victoria to escape civil war. She found friends and a rewarding career as a result of attending VC and is proud that she can serve as a role model for her children.
VC Foundation Board and Board of Trustees member Robby Burdge introduces Manuel Macomo.
Manuel Macomo tells a remarkable story of how he came to live with a family in Shiner from an orphanage in Mozambique, Africa and how much attending VC has transformed his life. Not only providing him with an education, but in opening up new vistas of possibility he never dreamed possible.
Congratulations to all the "What's Your Story?" winners and tremendous gratitude and appreciation for all those in the Victoria community who donate to the Victoria College Foundation so that students like these can get the help they need to reach their dreams.
Also on Tuesday, Dr. Butler, along with other VC officials met at Memorial High School to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Victoria Independent School District that will pave the way toward opening College Access Resource (CARS) Centers on both (future) campuses of Memorial High School.
Dr. Butler and VISD Superintendent Bob Moore sign the agreement witnessed by Kim Motley of VISD, Melissa Robinson and Florinda Correa of VC, Nancy McCord and Mima Gonzalez both VISD Assistant Superintendents, Kim Smith and Vince Ortiz of VC and MHS Principal Greg Crockett.
The creation of CARS Centers is one of several important parts of the collaboration among VC and area school districts funded by a Title V Federal Grant awarded to VC earlier this year.
CARS Centers will also open at both Gonzales High School and Calhoun County High School.
Some of the benefits offered through CARS Centers include college entrance testing, career exploration and other assessments that will help establish and enhance a student’s academic skills. Non-academic skills such as time management and effective note-taking along with study and test taking skills will also be addressed.
A VC pre-college advisor will be available in each CARS Center to assist students throughout the school year. Students will also have access to computers so that they may explore additional information on colleges and universities, careers, scholarships and financial aid.
Parents are also invited to visit CARS Centers on these high school campuses.
Wednesday was Staff Professional Development day on campus at VC presented by Staff Council. Staff members gathered to renew friendships and acquaintances, network with each other and improve their professional skills by attending a variety of seminars.
Breakfast began with Dr. Butler talking about the activities of the local education council and how those efforts will impact VC, along with state budgeting issues and what VC is doing to increase enrollment.
He also reminded staff that while recruitment efforts are very important to increasing enrollment, keeping current students is just as important and that all VC staff play a critical role in helping students find the balance they need to continue pursuing their education.
The morning's activities also included a speaker from Blue Cross Blue Shield explaining how to take advantage of insurance services.
After breakfast, VC employees attended a variety of seminars including Personal Safety, MS Office 2007 Basics and Stress Management and Relaxation.
One of the most popular seminars was Personal Safety conducted by Lt. Chris Garcia. Here, staff members practice shouting "Stop! Stop! Stop!" while using their elbows to deter potential attackers.
Lt. Garcia shares his self-defense techniques with VC staff.
Here Lt. Garcia bravely serves as a practice "attacker" to show staff member Cindi Henderson how an elbow to the upper chest could deter an attacker.
The second most popular seminar was Stress-Reduction and Relaxation conducted by Mary Mayes and Jodi Sanders. Here, Mary Mayes demonstrates deep breathing relaxation techniques.
These staff members are getting expert instruction from Janet Weaver on the use of MS Office 2007.
After enjoying more time for friendship and networking along with a catered lunch, motivational speaker Jeph Burnett reminded everyone that time is far more precious than money and encouraged everyone to find their passion by sharing his Grandpa's good advice: "The world owes you a living, but you have to go out and get it."
In the afternoon, employees got the chance to attend more seminars including Dress for Success, Customer Service, First Aid/CPR, Team Building and Communication, and Personal Enrichment.
On Thursday evening, both the day and evening Police Academy classes celebrated graduation. Not only did these fine men and women graduate from the VC Police Academy, but every one of them passed their TCLEOSE certification exam.
Congratulations to the Day Program Police Academy graduating class.
Congratulations to the Evening Program Police Academy graduating class.
Good luck and best wishes to you all in your future endeavors.
Remember! starting next week, VC business hours will switch to the summer schedule:
Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
In the meantime, have a safe and relaxing holiday weekend.
Keep an eye on the VC Facebook Fan Page for announcements about all the events coming up next week at VC.
The weather is sunny and hot, the parking lots on campus are nearly empty, the buildings are quiet... all indications that summer has begun at VC.
In this first post-Commencement week, it has been especially quiet on campus, but that just means we can go all the way back to the end of last week and Wrap-Up Commencement and the other graduation ceremonies that took place at VC.
Last Thursday (May 13), the VC Fire Academy students graduated. Sixteen future heroes and their families gathered in the VC Johnson Symposium to celebrate having survived the rigorous and challenging Fire Academy curriculum and look forward together to their future in service to the public.
Congratulations to VC Fire Academy's Spring 2010 graduates!
On Friday evening (May 14), as the storm began, 56 women in white received their Associate Degree-Nursing pins. Congratulations to all those who completed the ADN Program this spring.
From L to R: Program Chair, VC Associate Degree-Nursing Program Marilyn Hamilton, Spring 2010 Top ADN Graduate (highest GPA) Marie Evans, VC President Dr. Tom Butler, Spring 2010 Top ADN Graduate (2nd highest GPA) Cheryl Fojtik, Victoria College Board of Trustees Member Luis Guerra.
Marie Evans, pictured here with VC President Dr. Tom Butler, also won the B.J. Peterson award. Congratulations, Marie!
COMMENCEMENT DAY: Saturday morning (May 14) started with a crash and a flash and a whole lot of water! But a little flooding here and there certainly didn't stop VC's grads! Graduates and their families gathered with VC faculty, staff and administration at Faith Family Church to celebrate all the many amazing achievements accomplished by VC's graduating students.
Graduates from the Digital Graphics-Web Page Design Software program.
Graduates from the Respiratory Care Program.
KEY Center graduates.
VP of Instruction Pat Vandervoort with her husband, VC graduate Matthew Vandervoort.
And congratulations again to Distinguished Teacher Award winner Gail Janecka pictured here with VC Foundation Board Member Steve Hipes (far left) and VC Board of Trustees Member Luis Guerra (far right) along with VC President Dr. Tom Butler.
And now, check out some videos of VC students as they prepare to graduate:
Congratulations again to all of VC's graduates!
In this first post-Commencement week, it has been especially quiet on campus, but that just means we can go all the way back to the end of last week and Wrap-Up Commencement and the other graduation ceremonies that took place at VC.
Last Thursday (May 13), the VC Fire Academy students graduated. Sixteen future heroes and their families gathered in the VC Johnson Symposium to celebrate having survived the rigorous and challenging Fire Academy curriculum and look forward together to their future in service to the public.
Congratulations to VC Fire Academy's Spring 2010 graduates!
On Friday evening (May 14), as the storm began, 56 women in white received their Associate Degree-Nursing pins. Congratulations to all those who completed the ADN Program this spring.
From L to R: Program Chair, VC Associate Degree-Nursing Program Marilyn Hamilton, Spring 2010 Top ADN Graduate (highest GPA) Marie Evans, VC President Dr. Tom Butler, Spring 2010 Top ADN Graduate (2nd highest GPA) Cheryl Fojtik, Victoria College Board of Trustees Member Luis Guerra.
Marie Evans, pictured here with VC President Dr. Tom Butler, also won the B.J. Peterson award. Congratulations, Marie!
COMMENCEMENT DAY: Saturday morning (May 14) started with a crash and a flash and a whole lot of water! But a little flooding here and there certainly didn't stop VC's grads! Graduates and their families gathered with VC faculty, staff and administration at Faith Family Church to celebrate all the many amazing achievements accomplished by VC's graduating students.
Graduates from the Digital Graphics-Web Page Design Software program.
Graduates from the Respiratory Care Program.
KEY Center graduates.
VP of Instruction Pat Vandervoort with her husband, VC graduate Matthew Vandervoort.
And congratulations again to Distinguished Teacher Award winner Gail Janecka pictured here with VC Foundation Board Member Steve Hipes (far left) and VC Board of Trustees Member Luis Guerra (far right) along with VC President Dr. Tom Butler.
And now, check out some videos of VC students as they prepare to graduate:
Congratulations again to all of VC's graduates!
Victoria College applauds its employees whose special efforts, creativity and dedication help ensure delivery of its high quality programs and services.
"Betty East, Tutoring Services Coordinator, is a wonderful co-worker... but also extends her warmth to all of our students. She helps them with their assignments, “mothers” them. I hear students all the time talk of how the tutoring center is their home away from home. She uses the reading room to provide a comfy quiet place for them to relax, read or study. She comes to the KEY Center to tell students that she has a pot of soup and salad or warm cookies.
She researches, plans and brainstorms ways to help the students become more involved in school and to succeed. She has helped them get scholarships, awards, take trips to conferences and is always there encouraging them to do and be more!"
Commendation submitted by Heather Bickham, Secretary, Student Support Services/K.E.Y. Center
Betty East helps a student with a research paper for English class.
"Betty East, Tutoring Services Coordinator, is a wonderful co-worker... but also extends her warmth to all of our students. She helps them with their assignments, “mothers” them. I hear students all the time talk of how the tutoring center is their home away from home. She uses the reading room to provide a comfy quiet place for them to relax, read or study. She comes to the KEY Center to tell students that she has a pot of soup and salad or warm cookies.
She researches, plans and brainstorms ways to help the students become more involved in school and to succeed. She has helped them get scholarships, awards, take trips to conferences and is always there encouraging them to do and be more!"
Commendation submitted by Heather Bickham, Secretary, Student Support Services/K.E.Y. Center
Betty East helps a student with a research paper for English class.
All the news and photos on all the events at VC:
It's the end of FINALS WEEK. Whew!
On Monday and Tuesday the Student Activities office made pancakes for students before finals.
Syrupy, fluffy golden goodness for college students about to take finals.
...there was also delicious, nutritious fresh fruit...
...and orange juice, milk and coffee.
Thanks to the Student Activities Office and the United Campus Ministry for organizing and cooking breakfast.
Blobs of batter about to become fluffy-licious pancakes.
These ladies were reviewing for their strength training final.
Students lined up to get breakfast on Monday morning.
Mrs. Butterworth was there, too.
Student Activities also prepared Student Care Bags with a Scantron, #2 Pencil, snack and an extra boost of encouragement.
On Wednesday VC Chief of Police Matt Williams participated in the National Law Enforcement Memorial Services in downtown Victoria.
Chief Williams served as wreath bearer along with Victoria County Sheriff T. Michael O'Connor.
He also read the Roll Call of Fallen Officers.
Friday was Commencement rehearsal at Faith Family Church followed by a faculty/student luncheon in the VC Student Center.
VC instructors Harry and LeAnn Wagner said rehearsal went very well.
Jackie Robinson and Cindy Buchholz both agreed that rehearsal was "necessary," and look forward to tomorrow's ceremony at Faith Family Church.
Mary Hall is looking forward to lunch with students.
James Martinez, Besty Crane and Helen Dvorak also thought graduation rehearsal went smoothly in the new location.
Babette Lowe, Pasty Freeman and Diana Pagel are ready for Commencement as well.
ADN instructors Michelle Ulbrich, Marty Domke, Stacy Barth and Faith Darilek are also looking forward to the ADN Program's Pinning Ceremony tonight.
Government instructor James Gleason (2nd from L) is retiring after 40 years at VC. Thanks Dr. Gleason! We'll miss you.
Huge thanks to Coach Bill Byers for all his hard work making Commencement memorable this year.
Bill Byers, Bill Coons and Mary Mayes are ready for some lunch.
Matt Wiley and Margaret Janowski-Bell finally made it to the buffet!
They were just held up a bit by Trent Thigpen artfully drizzling dressing on his salad.
But his salad was perfect as he attacked the bowl of fresh rolls.
Gail Janecka! What are you going to do now that you've won the Distinguished Teacher Award??
All her students know she did not say, "Go to Disney World." She said, "I will continue teaching." Because that's what she loves most.
See? She always makes students a priority.
SGA President Jonathan Sixtos needs sustenance before he gives the invocation at Commencement tomorrow.
John Rojas looks like he's ready for summer.
Ann Brogger and Kim Smith thought lunch was very tasty.
KEY Center graduate Angela Howard also enjoyed the luncheon and is really looking forward to Commencement tomorrow.
"Are there seconds?"
Congratulations to all of VC's graduates. Please accept our best wishes for your bright new future. And THANK YOU to all VC faculty, staff and administration for an excellent and extremely educational semester.
Have a great summer everyone!
And to those of you sticking around for summer sessions, stay tuned to the VC Facebook Fan Page for all the details on next week's events.
It's the end of FINALS WEEK. Whew!
On Monday and Tuesday the Student Activities office made pancakes for students before finals.
Syrupy, fluffy golden goodness for college students about to take finals.
...there was also delicious, nutritious fresh fruit...
...and orange juice, milk and coffee.
Thanks to the Student Activities Office and the United Campus Ministry for organizing and cooking breakfast.
Blobs of batter about to become fluffy-licious pancakes.
These ladies were reviewing for their strength training final.
Students lined up to get breakfast on Monday morning.
Mrs. Butterworth was there, too.
Student Activities also prepared Student Care Bags with a Scantron, #2 Pencil, snack and an extra boost of encouragement.
On Wednesday VC Chief of Police Matt Williams participated in the National Law Enforcement Memorial Services in downtown Victoria.
Chief Williams served as wreath bearer along with Victoria County Sheriff T. Michael O'Connor.
He also read the Roll Call of Fallen Officers.
Friday was Commencement rehearsal at Faith Family Church followed by a faculty/student luncheon in the VC Student Center.
VC instructors Harry and LeAnn Wagner said rehearsal went very well.
Jackie Robinson and Cindy Buchholz both agreed that rehearsal was "necessary," and look forward to tomorrow's ceremony at Faith Family Church.
Mary Hall is looking forward to lunch with students.
James Martinez, Besty Crane and Helen Dvorak also thought graduation rehearsal went smoothly in the new location.
Babette Lowe, Pasty Freeman and Diana Pagel are ready for Commencement as well.
ADN instructors Michelle Ulbrich, Marty Domke, Stacy Barth and Faith Darilek are also looking forward to the ADN Program's Pinning Ceremony tonight.
Government instructor James Gleason (2nd from L) is retiring after 40 years at VC. Thanks Dr. Gleason! We'll miss you.
Huge thanks to Coach Bill Byers for all his hard work making Commencement memorable this year.
Bill Byers, Bill Coons and Mary Mayes are ready for some lunch.
Matt Wiley and Margaret Janowski-Bell finally made it to the buffet!
They were just held up a bit by Trent Thigpen artfully drizzling dressing on his salad.
But his salad was perfect as he attacked the bowl of fresh rolls.
Gail Janecka! What are you going to do now that you've won the Distinguished Teacher Award??
All her students know she did not say, "Go to Disney World." She said, "I will continue teaching." Because that's what she loves most.
See? She always makes students a priority.
SGA President Jonathan Sixtos needs sustenance before he gives the invocation at Commencement tomorrow.
John Rojas looks like he's ready for summer.
Ann Brogger and Kim Smith thought lunch was very tasty.
KEY Center graduate Angela Howard also enjoyed the luncheon and is really looking forward to Commencement tomorrow.
"Are there seconds?"
Congratulations to all of VC's graduates. Please accept our best wishes for your bright new future. And THANK YOU to all VC faculty, staff and administration for an excellent and extremely educational semester.
Have a great summer everyone!
And to those of you sticking around for summer sessions, stay tuned to the VC Facebook Fan Page for all the details on next week's events.
All the news, information, photos and videos on all the events at VC:
On Tuesday, the VC Student Activities office, in partnership with the Dorothy O'Connor Pet Adoption Center, offered students a way to take their minds off the stresses of studying for finals by bringing lively and lovable dogs and cats on campus to enjoy the mild, late spring weather out on the Quad.
VC student Clare Crisp relaxes with Fanny.
Furry Friends for Finals benefited the dogs and cats as much as the students. They got lots and lots of exercise, attention and fresh air.
This dog enjoyed the chance to show off his stuff as much as the fresh air and exercise.
Little Jake here enjoyed the cuddling and chin scratching, too.
Accounting major Hilary Hayes was especially fond of T.J.... and he was equally fond of her.
The best news of all is that several of the shelter dogs found new homes as a result of their visit on campus.
Nursing student Tommie Gips sits in the shade with Fanny.
T.J. was a popular fellow.
An irresistible little face suggesting, "Pet me!"
Pretty little Sadie wants attention, too!
The dogs provided entertainment as well as their soothing, stress-free company.
Wednesday was Cinco de Mayo and the Mexican-American Student Organization at VC and the Latin-American Student Organization at UHV joined efforts to treat students, faculty and staff from both campuses with traditional Mexican food and music in the VC Student Center.
Life is delicious in South Texas on Cinco de Mayo.
Angela Howard enjoys cinnamon-y Mexican pastries while listening to authentic mariachi.
This is what it looked like before she ate it.
Speaking of the mariachi band...
The MHS Mariachi Band was just amazing!
Basketball players A.J. Irwin and C.J. Smalls get in line for some tacos.
Arroz con Beverly Garcia.
ADN program students discuss the best way to top a taco. Does the cheese go first? Or the lettuce and tomato?
MASO member Jose Chavez shows them how to top a taco right. Doesn't matter which order, as long as you put LOTS of cheese.
Professional office tech student LaTasha Brooks enjoys the mariachi and cool iced tea --> house wine of the South.
Volleyball player Katie Lytle and tennis player/SGA Treasurer Luis Pina pause for a photo before getting nachos.
MASO students serving beans and rice and nachos, Oh YUM!
Huge GRACIAS to the MASO crew along with faculty advisor Jose Sanchez for such a great spread and great entertainment.
Later on Wednesday evening, the last games in the Intramural Sand Volleyball series were played and the championship title was decided when Team Dynasty beat Team Toni.
Team Dynasty from L to R: Amber Sherman, Josh Moore, Nicole Moore, Billy Lagal and Jonathan Sixtos.
Team Toni was Toni Parkman, D.J. Hybner, Cameron Gomez and Heather Stubbs. Team Toni beat Los Polar Bears to advance to the final, and Team Dynasty beat Team America to advance. Also playing were Skillz that Killz and Punk Snitches.
Thursday night was the Inaugural VC Sports Banquet where outstanding student athletes from each of VC's sports programs were recognized--including Archery, Tennis, Volleyball and Basketball.
Basketball players D.J. Hybner and Kennon Dvorak wait for the banquet part to begin.
Josh Matthews and Justin Creighton all dressed up.
The lovely ladies of VC women's volleyball.
The evening began with Coach Bill Byers pointing out that all of this year's VC sports teams really made a name for themselves with their amazing performance and thanked all the players and their families for their continued dedication, the coaches for their hard work, the community for their support and all VC students, faculty and staff for their involvement that made this year in sports so successful.
...but none of it would have been possible without the vision, guidance and support of Coach Byers. Thank you, Coach Byers!
Newscenter 25's Sports Director Don Brubaker was given a signed photo of volleyball and basketball team members thanking him and recognizing his unwavering support all year.
Coach Byers awarded Marty Hart the Member of the Year award for Archery, recognizing and honoring her dedication to the sport of archery.
Marty Hart and Coach Bill Byers.
Coach Josh Moore talked about what an amazing year the women's volleyball team had winning their third conference title in a row. He credited the ladies with their dedication to each other and admitted that while he's enjoyed every team he has coached, the team this year topped them all with sportsmanship, skill and tremendous heart.
Coach Moore talks about women's volleyball and admits, "Sometimes, there's drama." But said he was proud that there was exceptionally little drama among team members this year as they remained focused and dedicated to each other.
Vickie Molnosky was awarded Volleyball MVP of the Year.
Coach Byers talked about the amazing season the tennis team had this year. He said he was extremely proud of and impressed with the tennis team because this year it was strictly student run. Not only did this year's team win their division at the state championships playing against teams from far larger schools, but after earning themselves a trip to nationals, also managed to organize a very lucrative fundraiser that helped them pay for travel and accommodations while they competed in Surprise, Arizona.
Coach Byers awards Luis Pina Tennis MVP of the Year.
Coach Mary Mayes stepped in on behalf of Kelly McKay to announce that Courtney Reese (not in attendance) would be honored as Member of the Year for the VC Treasures Dance Team.
Coach Anderson then talked about the amazing year the men's basketball team had going all the way to game two in the STCSL conference finals.
When compared to last year's record of 1 and 11, this year was outstanding, but would have been even without the comparison. He reminded the team that they're responsible for making this the most exciting year in recent VC sports history.
Thanks Coach Anderson!
As he called each of the team members up to the front, he told of their outstanding records throughout the season.
He also spilled the beans about what the "C" in C.J. stands for...
Then he awarded the Basketball MVP of the Year.
Basketball MVP of the Year Jonathan Flores.
Then it was time for announcement of Male Athlete of the Year and Female Athlete of the Year.
Sports fan and Dean of Allied Health Programs LeAnn Wagner presented women's volleyball player Katie Lytle with the Female Athlete of the Year award. Congratulations, Katie!
Vice President of Instruction Pat Vandervoort got the honor of presenting men's basketball player Kennon Dvorak with the Male Athlete of the Year award. Congratulations Kennon!
Ladies and gentlemen please congratulate these fine young men and women for their outstanding accomplishments!
...right after they stop making silly faces...
They said ARRGHHH! quite convincingly even though they're wearing ties.
Don't let their loveliness fool you, these ladies are tough competitors!
Friday was another big day in sports at VC. The VC Pirates men's basketball team signed six new players for next season.
Brian Parks, 6'5", from Harlingen High School.
Colton Clay-Callis, 5'10", from Edna High School.
Jarrod Jones, 6'4", from Cypress-Woods High School in Houston.
Justyn Terrell, 6'3", from Memorial High School.
Jordan Winston, 6'7", from Lamar Consolidated High School in Rosenberg.
Charles Hastings, 6'3", from Gonzales High School is also signing for next season but was not at the press conference on Friday.
A hush fell over the gym and you could hear the ink soaking into the paper...
Welcome new Pirates!
Coach Anderson talked to Newscenter 25's Don Brubaker about his expectations for next season's team.
Ryan Nieto-Whitaker asks A.J. Irwin what he thinks of the new guys while C.J. Smalls checks his text messages.
Cameron Gomez and Justin Creighton are ready to play.
In other basketball news...
Apparently the ladies in College Central are at odds over basketball. You see, the majority are strongly in favor of the San Antonio Spurs. Strongly in favor.
College Central is heavily decorated with Spurs paraphernalia and regalia.
But College Central Manager Debbie Thurmond is a die-hard Phoenix Suns fan.
Thurmond's office walls are a testament to her Suns loyalty.
They're smiling now, but when the Spurs and Suns play... they get their game faces on!
From L to R: Illiana Rodriguez, Debbie Thurmond, Miros Gonzales and Elena Sanderson.
Debbie is deep in "enemy" territory but confidently proclaims, "I am NOT afraid!"
Next week: FINALS!!! ...and VC students are studiously studying with serious and single-minded intensity.
There is a lot of this going on...
In the Tutoring Center today, students gathered to study for their College Algebra finals with the help and guidance of two very dedicated math tutors.
Andrew Davis and Alma Jane Musselman visited with all of VC's College Algebra professors to make sure their study materials would match material students would encounter on the final. Then they scheduled study sessions and prepared sign-up sheets, handouts and fliers so that they could help students using their custom-tailored practice exam.
The also enlisted the help of support tutors Josh Pritchard and Marek Aubrecht.
Factoring with Andrew Davis.
Alma Jane Musselman looks at a student's practice problems.
The air was thick with formulas, quadratic equations and the dreaded: WORD PROBLEMS!
Good luck next week students! You've worked hard all semester and studied especially hard this week... you're sure to do great! So go to your finals with confidence, pride and faith in yourselves.
Huge thank you to Tutoring Coordinator Betty East for all her hard work helping students and tutors and for providing the best place to study on campus complete with all the best snacks!
Don't forget! Student Activities is providing breakfast complete with pancakes, bacon, sausage, juice and more to feed your brain for finals next Monday and Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. each day in the VC Student Center.
And speaking of Student Activities... a HUGE thank you to Student Activities Director Elaine Everett-Hensley, Student Activities Support Person Beverly Garcia and SGA officers Jonathan Sixtos, Kathryn Wilson, Luis Pina and Paul Miller for all their hard work this week making life on campus tasty, fun, relaxing, rewarding, comfortable and musical.
And speaking of SGA, the new Suggestion Boxes placed around campus have been gathering lots of suggestions.
If you're interested to know what kind of suggestions have been suggested, you can go see all the suggestions on the SGA Facebook Fan Page. Click the "discussion" tab to see all the suggestions SGA has received from fellow students.
And if you'd like to submit your suggestions via a more high-tech method, feel free to post suggestions directly there as well.
...suggestions, anyone?
Stay tuned to the VC Facebook Fan Page for an update Monday morning on all the events coming up at VC next week.
On Tuesday, the VC Student Activities office, in partnership with the Dorothy O'Connor Pet Adoption Center, offered students a way to take their minds off the stresses of studying for finals by bringing lively and lovable dogs and cats on campus to enjoy the mild, late spring weather out on the Quad.
VC student Clare Crisp relaxes with Fanny.
Furry Friends for Finals benefited the dogs and cats as much as the students. They got lots and lots of exercise, attention and fresh air.
This dog enjoyed the chance to show off his stuff as much as the fresh air and exercise.
Little Jake here enjoyed the cuddling and chin scratching, too.
Accounting major Hilary Hayes was especially fond of T.J.... and he was equally fond of her.
The best news of all is that several of the shelter dogs found new homes as a result of their visit on campus.
Nursing student Tommie Gips sits in the shade with Fanny.
T.J. was a popular fellow.
An irresistible little face suggesting, "Pet me!"
Pretty little Sadie wants attention, too!
The dogs provided entertainment as well as their soothing, stress-free company.
Wednesday was Cinco de Mayo and the Mexican-American Student Organization at VC and the Latin-American Student Organization at UHV joined efforts to treat students, faculty and staff from both campuses with traditional Mexican food and music in the VC Student Center.
Life is delicious in South Texas on Cinco de Mayo.
Angela Howard enjoys cinnamon-y Mexican pastries while listening to authentic mariachi.
This is what it looked like before she ate it.
Speaking of the mariachi band...
The MHS Mariachi Band was just amazing!
Basketball players A.J. Irwin and C.J. Smalls get in line for some tacos.
Arroz con Beverly Garcia.
ADN program students discuss the best way to top a taco. Does the cheese go first? Or the lettuce and tomato?
MASO member Jose Chavez shows them how to top a taco right. Doesn't matter which order, as long as you put LOTS of cheese.
Professional office tech student LaTasha Brooks enjoys the mariachi and cool iced tea --> house wine of the South.
Volleyball player Katie Lytle and tennis player/SGA Treasurer Luis Pina pause for a photo before getting nachos.
MASO students serving beans and rice and nachos, Oh YUM!
Huge GRACIAS to the MASO crew along with faculty advisor Jose Sanchez for such a great spread and great entertainment.
Later on Wednesday evening, the last games in the Intramural Sand Volleyball series were played and the championship title was decided when Team Dynasty beat Team Toni.
Team Dynasty from L to R: Amber Sherman, Josh Moore, Nicole Moore, Billy Lagal and Jonathan Sixtos.
Team Toni was Toni Parkman, D.J. Hybner, Cameron Gomez and Heather Stubbs. Team Toni beat Los Polar Bears to advance to the final, and Team Dynasty beat Team America to advance. Also playing were Skillz that Killz and Punk Snitches.
Thursday night was the Inaugural VC Sports Banquet where outstanding student athletes from each of VC's sports programs were recognized--including Archery, Tennis, Volleyball and Basketball.
Basketball players D.J. Hybner and Kennon Dvorak wait for the banquet part to begin.
Josh Matthews and Justin Creighton all dressed up.
The lovely ladies of VC women's volleyball.
The evening began with Coach Bill Byers pointing out that all of this year's VC sports teams really made a name for themselves with their amazing performance and thanked all the players and their families for their continued dedication, the coaches for their hard work, the community for their support and all VC students, faculty and staff for their involvement that made this year in sports so successful.
...but none of it would have been possible without the vision, guidance and support of Coach Byers. Thank you, Coach Byers!
Newscenter 25's Sports Director Don Brubaker was given a signed photo of volleyball and basketball team members thanking him and recognizing his unwavering support all year.
Coach Byers awarded Marty Hart the Member of the Year award for Archery, recognizing and honoring her dedication to the sport of archery.
Marty Hart and Coach Bill Byers.
Coach Josh Moore talked about what an amazing year the women's volleyball team had winning their third conference title in a row. He credited the ladies with their dedication to each other and admitted that while he's enjoyed every team he has coached, the team this year topped them all with sportsmanship, skill and tremendous heart.
Coach Moore talks about women's volleyball and admits, "Sometimes, there's drama." But said he was proud that there was exceptionally little drama among team members this year as they remained focused and dedicated to each other.
Vickie Molnosky was awarded Volleyball MVP of the Year.
Coach Byers talked about the amazing season the tennis team had this year. He said he was extremely proud of and impressed with the tennis team because this year it was strictly student run. Not only did this year's team win their division at the state championships playing against teams from far larger schools, but after earning themselves a trip to nationals, also managed to organize a very lucrative fundraiser that helped them pay for travel and accommodations while they competed in Surprise, Arizona.
Coach Byers awards Luis Pina Tennis MVP of the Year.
Coach Mary Mayes stepped in on behalf of Kelly McKay to announce that Courtney Reese (not in attendance) would be honored as Member of the Year for the VC Treasures Dance Team.
Coach Anderson then talked about the amazing year the men's basketball team had going all the way to game two in the STCSL conference finals.
When compared to last year's record of 1 and 11, this year was outstanding, but would have been even without the comparison. He reminded the team that they're responsible for making this the most exciting year in recent VC sports history.
Thanks Coach Anderson!
As he called each of the team members up to the front, he told of their outstanding records throughout the season.
He also spilled the beans about what the "C" in C.J. stands for...
Then he awarded the Basketball MVP of the Year.
Basketball MVP of the Year Jonathan Flores.
Then it was time for announcement of Male Athlete of the Year and Female Athlete of the Year.
Sports fan and Dean of Allied Health Programs LeAnn Wagner presented women's volleyball player Katie Lytle with the Female Athlete of the Year award. Congratulations, Katie!
Vice President of Instruction Pat Vandervoort got the honor of presenting men's basketball player Kennon Dvorak with the Male Athlete of the Year award. Congratulations Kennon!
Ladies and gentlemen please congratulate these fine young men and women for their outstanding accomplishments!
...right after they stop making silly faces...
They said ARRGHHH! quite convincingly even though they're wearing ties.
Don't let their loveliness fool you, these ladies are tough competitors!
Friday was another big day in sports at VC. The VC Pirates men's basketball team signed six new players for next season.
Brian Parks, 6'5", from Harlingen High School.
Colton Clay-Callis, 5'10", from Edna High School.
Jarrod Jones, 6'4", from Cypress-Woods High School in Houston.
Justyn Terrell, 6'3", from Memorial High School.
Jordan Winston, 6'7", from Lamar Consolidated High School in Rosenberg.
Charles Hastings, 6'3", from Gonzales High School is also signing for next season but was not at the press conference on Friday.
A hush fell over the gym and you could hear the ink soaking into the paper...
Welcome new Pirates!
Coach Anderson talked to Newscenter 25's Don Brubaker about his expectations for next season's team.
Ryan Nieto-Whitaker asks A.J. Irwin what he thinks of the new guys while C.J. Smalls checks his text messages.
Cameron Gomez and Justin Creighton are ready to play.
In other basketball news...
Apparently the ladies in College Central are at odds over basketball. You see, the majority are strongly in favor of the San Antonio Spurs. Strongly in favor.
College Central is heavily decorated with Spurs paraphernalia and regalia.
But College Central Manager Debbie Thurmond is a die-hard Phoenix Suns fan.
Thurmond's office walls are a testament to her Suns loyalty.
They're smiling now, but when the Spurs and Suns play... they get their game faces on!
From L to R: Illiana Rodriguez, Debbie Thurmond, Miros Gonzales and Elena Sanderson.
Debbie is deep in "enemy" territory but confidently proclaims, "I am NOT afraid!"
Next week: FINALS!!! ...and VC students are studiously studying with serious and single-minded intensity.
There is a lot of this going on...
In the Tutoring Center today, students gathered to study for their College Algebra finals with the help and guidance of two very dedicated math tutors.
Andrew Davis and Alma Jane Musselman visited with all of VC's College Algebra professors to make sure their study materials would match material students would encounter on the final. Then they scheduled study sessions and prepared sign-up sheets, handouts and fliers so that they could help students using their custom-tailored practice exam.
The also enlisted the help of support tutors Josh Pritchard and Marek Aubrecht.
Factoring with Andrew Davis.
Alma Jane Musselman looks at a student's practice problems.
The air was thick with formulas, quadratic equations and the dreaded: WORD PROBLEMS!
Good luck next week students! You've worked hard all semester and studied especially hard this week... you're sure to do great! So go to your finals with confidence, pride and faith in yourselves.
Huge thank you to Tutoring Coordinator Betty East for all her hard work helping students and tutors and for providing the best place to study on campus complete with all the best snacks!
Don't forget! Student Activities is providing breakfast complete with pancakes, bacon, sausage, juice and more to feed your brain for finals next Monday and Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. each day in the VC Student Center.
And speaking of Student Activities... a HUGE thank you to Student Activities Director Elaine Everett-Hensley, Student Activities Support Person Beverly Garcia and SGA officers Jonathan Sixtos, Kathryn Wilson, Luis Pina and Paul Miller for all their hard work this week making life on campus tasty, fun, relaxing, rewarding, comfortable and musical.
And speaking of SGA, the new Suggestion Boxes placed around campus have been gathering lots of suggestions.
If you're interested to know what kind of suggestions have been suggested, you can go see all the suggestions on the SGA Facebook Fan Page. Click the "discussion" tab to see all the suggestions SGA has received from fellow students.
And if you'd like to submit your suggestions via a more high-tech method, feel free to post suggestions directly there as well.
...suggestions, anyone?
Stay tuned to the VC Facebook Fan Page for an update Monday morning on all the events coming up at VC next week.
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