November 2023 Volume 7 Issue 4

Update from the President

by Dr. Shanna L. Jackson

Greetings,  

The end of the Fall semester is quickly approaching.  How are you doing?  Are you counting down the days or wishing you could add more time to finish all you had planned?  For me, I never seem to have enough time.  What I like to do the most is what I get to do the least.  My ideal day would be to visit offices, visit campuses and just have time to sit and talk to students. I treasure those moments; I learn so much when I get to just listen.

Do you ever get a chance to talk to our students?  How do you think they are doing?  The last few weeks of the semester can be filled with anxiety and a sense of being overwhelmed. That moment you take to reach out and check on a student or stop a student that is passing by could make all the difference.     

Below are a few updates for the Office of the President:

Dickson Campus The news is officially out!  Nashville State is partnering with TCAT Dickson to build a new Higher Education Center in Dickson that will be our permanent home.  Nashville State received an almost 9-acre land donation from HCA Tristar that will house the new campus.  TCAT Dickson received a $35 million state allocation for construction.  We are in the early stages of design and will keep the college updated as it progresses.

President Office Appointments Please join me in welcoming Patsy Ham to Nashville State as my new Administrative Assistant.  Patsy comes to us from Albany State University where she worked for 15 years in the facilities and transportation office. Please stop by the President’s Office to say hello. The door is always open!

Congratulations to Dr. Johannah Williams on her appointment as our new Vice President of Academic Affairs and Workforce Development.  A special thanks to the search committee and those who participated in the forums and/or provided feedback.  The STEM Dean position has been posted.

Enrollment Update – Registration for the Spring semester is ongoing.  Stay data informed with the college dashboards:

Spring Convocation – Convocation will be on Thursday, January 4 from 8:30am-12pm at all of our campuses. Each campus will have a designated watch room, which will be announced in December. Everyone should plan on attending in person.

Poverty Presentation I hope you had a chance to hear the poverty presentation by Dr. Donna Beegle on November 17.As a college committed to erasing barriers for our students, learning how to help students break poverty barriers and go on to graduate is critical. If you missed the presentation, I encourage you to watch the recording here: We Know Students Live in Poverty. How Can We Make Sure They Graduate?”  Passcode: h9RH74V%.

Support – We just recently had a break for Thanksgiving and the December holidays are fast approaching.  This time a year can be a challenge for many.  If you are not ok, you do not have to stay that way. You mean too much to the Falcon Family and you are encouraged to take care of both your physical and mental health.  Please remember EAP services are offered at no cost to all benefit-eligible employees and eligible family members. Visit Here4tn.com for more information.

Nashville State, even in the most trying times we have a lot for which to be thankful.  For me, I am grateful to serve our students, our community, and each of you.  I smile each time I pull up on a campus because I know I will get to see some of my very favorite people and our students.  I love Nashville State and the work we get to do – we are the difference makers!

People We Meet in the Hall

by Gracie Andrews King, Ph.D., Associate Professor

Every person has a book inside them. Histories and motivations waiting to be told. You may have met these people while passing in the hall, never realizing how different their perspective is. Or how similar.  Ryan and Fadumo are two students at Nashville State who each have an important story to tell. And these are their stories.

Ryan Dumrauf

Have you lived anywhere other than Nashville? If so, where have you lived?

Yes, I have! Before moving to Nashville, I spent all of my life in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. The elementary school, junior high, and high school that I attended were all within walking distance of my house. I lived in a large neighborhood and resided in a house with my mom, dad, and younger brother.

What circumstances brought you to Nashville?

I moved to Nashville at the end of December, 2022. At this time, I was wrapping up my first semester of my senior year in high school. Due to my academic status, I was blessed with the opportunity to graduate one semester earlier than my peers. At the same time, my father had been presented with a promotion within his company, requiring him to move to Tennessee. Additionally, at this time, I was in an incredibly difficult place with myself. Whether it was the insecurities I saw within myself, or my inability to find motivation in pursuing my career, it was clear that I needed a change and a fresh start. Nashville was the fresh start that I needed.

Why is getting a college education important to you?

My college education is currently my sole priority, and for the reason behind my choice in career. It’s always been my passion to go into the medical field, specifically pediatrics. The majority of my family resides in the medical field. From nurse practitioners, to physician assistants, I knew from the very start what I wanted to do with my life. Following my BSN, I plan to graduate medical school and begin my life as a physician. It’s without a doubt that to achieve this goal of mine, I need to be properly educated through the college track.

Why did you choose to take classes at Nashville State Community College?

Taking classes at NSCC was not my first choice. My ideal situation would have been to immediately move to a university, but given my current mental and emotional stability, I made the choice to stay home and choose an easier commute.

What are two things that get in the way of doing better in your classes or make it very hard to get the grades that you want to get?

Two things that get in the way of my academic success are my lack of sleep, and strenuous work schedule. I find myself working incredibly hard to keep up with my grades and the school work in my class. In order to get this done, I typically have to stay up most nights due to my heavy workload at my job. I just recently retired from my position as a shift manager at a fast-food industry, and began my new position as a PCT at TriStar Stone Crest Hospital. My job and schoolwork don’t leave much time to decompress, which is why I stay up later at night to unwind. I use heavy amounts of caffeine to counteract this issue.

What keeps you motivated to wake up every morning and go to school, even if you are tired? What do you tell yourself when you feel like itis too much and maybe you want to quit?

I work so incredibly hard in school to keep up with a high GPA. My goal is to be able to look back at my college experience and see that I put my all in, every day. When I wake up after a long night and dread going to class, I remember all of the other days that I put my all in. In my eyes, skipping days of hard work would only invalidate and counteract my previous work, as well as ruin my confidence in my ability to perform well in the school setting.

Describe two good experiences that you have had since you have been taking classes here.

Both of my positive experiences here revolved around my relationships with my professors. My first one was from my speech professor, Dr. Zach Mills, and involved the positive and outstanding words of motivation and congratulation for having the ability to deliver a speech with such success. I’ve spent all of my life being terrified of public speaking, and even though I still have real anxiety while I’m up there, this has only helped me control my stress and do better. My second experience occurred from when I made the President’s list last semester. I’ve never had such an achievement in High School, so this achievement meant a lot to me.

If you were granted three wishes and you could wish for anything you wanted, what are three things that you would wish for that would help you achieve your goals at Nashville State? (*You can wish for ANYTHING, no matter how crazy. If having a personal chauffeur to drive you around would help you, wish for that, for example.)

One thing I would wish for would be a photographic memory. To be able to cut my memorization time in half while allocating more time towards the comprehension aspect of a test or assignment. To follow this, I would wish for a personal assistant to be able to complete assignments that I consider “busywork”. There are a plethora of units that I consider to be exceptionally easy, and completing work for these units only takes time away from working towards units that I actually need to work for to understand. Finally, I would wish for an option to personalize and customize the teaching methods for each class. Personally, I’m a hands-on learner. To be able to choose this method of learning for specific classes would exponentially improve my ability to learn with efficiency.

Who is your favorite musician/band?

Currently, my favorite musician would be Bruno Mars.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?

My favorite TV show is Grey’s Anatomy.

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself? Maybe something you think makes you unique or something you think is special about you or your family and friends?

While being granted the opportunity to graduate earlier than the rest of my class was a blessing, there was one significant downside. Ever since middle school, I had been a competitive diver for my school and club. This included performing tricks off of a diving board in front of a panel of judges to be scored against others. Diving was my passion. For six years, I dove year-round. 5-6 days per week, hours per day. I was incredibly competitive, while I was conference and sectional champion for three years straight. Additionally, I placed at the state competition for these three years. Graduating early became an issue when I realized that I wouldn’t be able to compete my senior year. I couldn’t dive with my favorite team, or compete at conference, sectionals, or state. This was incredibly difficult for me to accept, and unfortunately, stripped me of my motivation to continue afterwards. Diving will always have a special place in my heart, and it will always contain memories that I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.

Fadumo Yusuf

Have you lived anywhere other than Nashville? If so, where have you lived?

When I was younger, I lived in a refugee camp in Qabribayax, a town in the Somali Region of Ethiopia. Despite the difficult circumstances, my family and I made the best of what we had and relied on the basic necessities provided by the camp. I have many fond memories of my time in the camp, despite the hardships we faced.

What circumstances brought you to Nashville?

Our situation in Ethiopia was difficult, and we had to leave everything we knew behind to come to Nashville, America 8 years ago. We came to Nashville in search of a better lifestyle and Nashville has been a welcoming and supportive community, and I’m grateful for everything it has given me. However, I know that there is so much more out there, and I’m eager to see and experience it all, including traveling and exploring new places, meeting new people, and learning about different cultures.

Why is getting a college education important to you?

Education has always been a top priority for me since my childhood. When my family moved to Nashville, I was thrilled to continue my education. I started attending school at the age of five in Qabribayax, and my parents did everything they could to support my education, including enrolling me in a nearby preschool. As I grew older, my commitment to my education only grew stronger. In Qabribayax where I attended elementary school, I had to walk almost two hours every day to get to school, no matter the weather. Though many people questioned why I had to walk so far, my family couldn’t afford transportation, and there was no school bus provided. My brother had to drop out of school to help our sick mother and take care of the house, so I became even more determined to succeed in my studies. Despite the challenges, I remained committed to my education. I promised my mother that I would be careful while walking to school, and I was always watching out for cars along the way. Even at just 7 years old, I was determined to do whatever it takes to get an education.

Why did you choose to take classes at Nashville State Community College?

When I graduated from high school here in Nashville, I was determined to continue my studies and become the first member of my family to attend college. To me, college education is essential because I wanted to demonstrate to my younger sisters that anything is possible with hard work and dedication while also making my parents proud and showing them that their sacrifices were not in vain. I still vividly remember the day I told my dad that I was going to college. The emotions that overcame him showed me that all of our hard work had paid off. I ultimately decided to attend Nashville State Community College because of the opportunities and support they offer their students especially first-time college students like me.

What are two things that get in the way of doing better in your classes or make it very hard to get the grades that you want to get?

I face a challenge in performing well in my classes and achieving my desired grades due to a couple of reasons. First, I have a very busy schedule as I have to take my dad to work at Tyson Food Shelby every day at 4 AM, which is almost two hours away from our house. After coming back home, I have to get ready for school, drop my little sister off at her school, and then attend my college classes. Once my classes are over, I go back home, make a quick lunch, and pick up my little sister at 3:40 PM. Then, at 4:40 PM, I go and pick my dad up from work. Due to traffic, we reach home at 7:10 PM, and by then, I try to complete as many assignments as possible. Since I am taking five classes, it becomes hard to study or do homework. However, I am determined to improve my academic performance and have decided to take only three classes and attend summer classes to manage my time better.

Secondly, I also have to help out with the household chores, which further takes away the little time I should be using for my studies. While my parents are concerned about my studies, I do not want them to feel guilty as they have sacrificed so much for our family. Hence, I am committed to finding ways to balance my time better so that I can focus on my studies and fulfill my responsibilities towards my family.

What keeps you motivated to wake up every morning and go to school, even if you are tired? What do you tell yourself when you feel like it is too much and maybe you want to quit?

When I find myself wanting to give up and quit, I remind myself of the reasons behind my goals and what I set out to achieve. Even when things feel challenging, I focus on the sense of accomplishment that I will experience when I push through and succeed. I also remember the reason why I came to Nashville, the opportunity I got that my parents never had, and the sacrifices they have been through to get me where I am today. Even when I feel like everything is too much and I just want to quit so bad, seeing my parents who push themselves every day to provide us with a better life, especially my dad who never complains and goes to work even when he’s sick, has motivated me to keep pushing, get up, go to college, get my education, and pursue my dream.

Describe two good experiences that you have had since you have been taking classes here.

Since enrolling at Nashville State, I have had two amazing experiences that have enriched my academic journey. Firstly, I have felt incredibly supported by my professors who are always there to help and guide me when I need it. Secondly, I have made a new friend in one of my classes, with whom I share interests and enthusiasm for the course material. It’s wonderful to have someone to collaborate with and discuss ideas. Overall, I am thrilled with my experience here and look forward to more positive and enriching experiences in the future.

If you were granted three wishes and you could wish for anything you wanted, what are three things that you would wish for that would help you achieve your goals at Nashville State? (*You can wish for ANYTHING, no matter how crazy. If having a personal chauffeur to drive you around would help you, wish for that, for example.)

As a student at Nashville State, I face a constant challenge of balancing my academic commitments with my familial responsibilities. It’s not easy, and at times, it can be overwhelming. If only I had three wishes to help me achieve my goals, I would wish for more time to focus on my studies, a trusted and reliable driver to assist me with transporting my family, and the freedom to work on my assignments uninterrupted. These wishes would go a long way in reducing the pressure and stress that I often feel as a student, and allow me to excel in both my academic and personal life. With more time to study and fewer distractions, I am confident that I can achieve the grades and success that I am capable of.

Who is your favorite musician/band?

When it comes to music, BTS is in a league of their own. While I don’t have a favorite band, their captivating beats and meaningful lyrics never fail to inspire me. The way they create music that not only grabs your attention but also touches your soul is truly remarkable. BTS has managed to develop such a unique sound and deliver such powerful messages that it’s no surprise they’ve become a massive sensation all over the world. If you’re in need of music that can boost your mood and motivate you, then BTS is definitely worth a listen.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?

Movies are a great source of entertainment for me. Out of all the genres, comedy, action, and scary movies are my absolute favorites. Comedies never fail to put me in a good mood with their hilarious jokes and witty remarks. Action movies, on the other hand, provide a thrilling experience with their intense fight scenes and heart-pumping chases. Scary movies have a different kind of excitement to offer. The suspenseful atmosphere and the unknown keep me on the edge of my seat, and I love trying to predict what will happen next.

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself? Maybe something you think makes you unique or something you think is special about you or your family and friends?

Lastly, have you ever met someone who appeared to be shy at first glance, but when they opened up, they became the life of the party? That’s me and what makes me unique. Although I may come off as reserved and shy in the beginning, I am actually a very outgoing person when I am in my natural element, surrounded by my closest friends. I have an inherent confidence and a captivating presence that commands attention. I love to make people laugh and have a good time, and I take pride in my ability to do so. My sense of humor and wit are unmatched, and I often surprise people with my quick comebacks and clever jokes. So, if you ever meet me and think I’m too quiet or shy, don’t be fooled. Once I open up and feel comfortable, I am truly a force to be reckoned with. I bring energy, humor, and life to any situation, and I always strive to make those around me feel happy and at ease. So, next time you meet someone who seems shy or reserved, remember that they might just be waiting to let their true personality shine through. I know that’s true for me, and I am proud to be the life of the party when I am in my element.

The Workforce Minute

by Rob Tudor, Director, IT Partnerships, Workforce Development & Continuing Education

One would think that as we progress into the holidays, companies and workforce projects would slow down for social and work gatherings, to pause and smell the apple and pumpkin scents in the air and to fellowship around a table of food.  Oh, contraire as companies prepared for calendar year-end and positioned for a successful calendar Q1 2024.  Workforce is incredibly excited to continue our work in the advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and IT industries:

Advanced Manufacturing Update

  • The Center for Workforce Development and Continuing Education continues to offer the Industrial Readiness Training (IRT) course which is a short-term program to reskill or upskill individuals pursuing entry level production and/or assembly positions in advanced manufacturing.  In partnership with Vol State, a cohort of four men from the Sumner County Jail completed the IRT program in November.  This program has been successful in other county criminal justice systems as well, providing a labor market re-entry option for transitioning individuals and reducing the recidivism rate. 
  • Nashville State is collaborating with the TN Department of Safety & Homeland Security and TBR to develop a Radio Technician program to benefit the Telecom Industry Sector in Tennessee. The Telecom Industry is attempting to address a potential labor shortage. This course will be designed to provide industry certifications and training specific to radio tower technicians. The pilot program is anticipated for rollout in 1st quarter 2024.
  • The Workforce and CE department is evaluating a new partnership with the Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) based in Dalton, Georgia, to offer a 300-hour workforce course on carpet, hardwood, and tile installation. The FCEF is attempting to address a potential labor shortage in the floor covering industry.  More to come as Nashville State analyzes the opportunity for middle Tennessee.

Healthcare Update

  • The inaugural Advancing Workforce Equity (AWE) Cohort completed their Patient Care Technician course on November 6th! The following day, each student attended the Health Professions Fair at the White Bridge Campus Library where they were able to connect with academic and industry professionals across Nashville.
  • The Workforce & CE Department launched the first Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) prep course with Tennessee Oncology (TNO). With this class being offered in a hybrid delivery model, most of the cohort were at the WBR campus while others joined virtually.  In the future, the course will be offered online except for clinical checkoffs and the certification exam.
  • The Director of Healthcare Partnerships had the privilege of representing the college at the State of Reform Conference as a panelist in Nashville, discussing the following topic: “Developing an Efficient Workforce Pipeline.” The event hosted healthcare professionals from across the Southeast region.

IT Update

  • With successes from 2023, Caterpillar Financial committed to the NSCC / Cat Fin Apprenticeship Program for 2024.  Cat Fin plans to onboard 2 IT students as full-time apprentice employees in January 2024 for the 20-month state and federally registered apprenticeship program.  The focus will be on Systems Administration and Management for these apprentices.  The apprentices will attend school full-time and work at Caterpillar Financial in Nashville part-time.  The work-based learning program was implemented in January 2023 with 2 Nashville State IT students onboarded as apprentices who are currently halfway through the program.
  • The Workforce and Continuing Education Department for Nashville State was represented well at 2 workforce conferences in November:  JP Morgan’s New Skills Ready Convening and the National Career Pathways Network Connect conference, in partnership with Jobs for the Future (JFF). The Director of IT Partnerships spoke on successful partnerships with businesses for work-based learning opportunities.  Both sessions were collaborative with college, community, and government leaders engaged in round table discussions about challenges and solutions for new and existing employer / corporate partnerships. 

Advancing Workforce Equity (AWE) Update

The college’s coordinator in workforce for the Advancing Workforce Equity (AWE) Project has been assessing the successes and challenges from the most recent November pilot cohort in preparation for the second cohort in February 2023.  The inaugural AWE cohort completed their Patient Care Technician course in early November.  Learning from the pilot program, adjustments will be made in the orientation portion of the program and the industry training pathways training content.  We are excited and look forward to the improved program to help those who are underserved in our community.    ​

​A huge thanks to all those that make these opportunities and outcomes possible for the learners and professionals we support daily!

Amy Bryant Headshot

New Year, New Horizons: Empowering Educators, January 5-11, 2024

by Amy S. Bryant, Associate Professor of Communication Studies and Director, The Teaching Center

You are invited to attend “New Year, New Horizons: Empowering Educators,” an educational conference designed specifically for NSCC employees. As we begin a new year, this conference is your unique opportunity to explore innovative approaches, share best practices, and connect with your colleagues to enhance your roles as educators within our institution.

Conference Overview

New Year, New Horizons: Empowering Educators at Nashville State Community College is tailored to empower NSCC educators with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to excel in their roles within our community college. Whether you are a faculty member, staff member, or administrator, this event will provide you with invaluable insights and resources to further your contributions to NSCC’s mission.

Key Themes

  • Innovation in Education: Discover innovative pedagogical methods and strategies specifically applicable to our community college context.
  • Equity and Inclusion: Address the importance of creating inclusive, diverse, and culturally responsive learning environments unique to our student body.
  • Wellness and Resilience: Learn strategies to prioritize your well-being and mental health, promoting a healthier work-life balance within our institution.
  • Educational Leadership: Gain leadership skills tailored to drive positive change within the context of Nashville State Community College.

What to Expect

  • Inspiring Presenters: Listen to educators and leaders within our community who will share their experiences and insights to motivate and guide you in your roles at NSCC.
  • Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops that provide practical tools, strategies, and resources customized for our institution.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with your fellow NSCC educators, build professional relationships, and share your experiences and challenges specific to our community college.
  • Panel Discussions: Engage in thought-provoking conversations on critical topics in education, facilitated by experts within our NSCC community.

Audience Encouraged to Attend

  • Faculty
  • NSCC Staff Members
  • NSCC Administrators

Badging:

NSCC employees who engage in 8 professional learning sessions presented by the Teaching Center and Online Learning between January 5 – 11 will earn the New Year, New Horizons badge.


Conference Schedule

The schedule for New Year, New Horizons: Empowering Educators is available now on The Teaching Center website.

Adjunct Compensation Levels Increased

by Gracie Andrews King, Ph.D., Associate Professor, STEM and Marla Perry, Associate Professor, BAPS

Faculty Senate at-large senators Marla Perry (marla.perry@nscc.edu) and Gracie King (gracie.king@nscc.edu) are currently heading the Senate Adjunct Committee established in 2021-2022 by Jessica Rabb and Jeff Green. They are continuing Dr. Rabb’s mission to build lines of communication and support to the adjuncts in all divisions.

Under Dr. Rabb’s leadership, last year the Senate Adjunct Subcommittee proposed both a pay increase for adjuncts and a way for adjuncts to more rapidly progress from Level 1 to Level 4, the highest level of adjunct pay. These changes were approved by Faculty Senate and NSCC Administrators. The pay raises were effective Spring semester 2023.

The changes that were proposed by the Senate Adjunct Subcommittee and approved are in bold, below. These changes allow adjunct faculty to advance more quickly to Category 4 pay level upon completion of the Teaching Center’s Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices (CRTP) certificate and 9 TLC’s at NSCC.

Category 1: $650 per TLC 
Category 2: $680 per TLC Successful completion of 12 TLCs at Nashville State 
Category 3: $710 per TLC Successful completion of 21 TLCs at Nashville State 
Category 4: $740 per TLC Successful completion of 30 TLCs at Nashville State OR Successful completion of 9 TLCs at NSCC and The Teaching Center’s Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices (CRTP) Certificate.*

*The CRTP certificate includes 18 hours of CRTP workshops through the Nashville State Teaching Center and the use and analysis of CRTP in three classes. Please see the CRTP certificate description at the Teaching Center’s website (CRTP – The Teaching Center at Nashville State Community College (nscc.edu)). Adjuncts may present the CRTP certificate to their Dean or Director.

Nashville State policy currently bases adjunct salaries on instructor qualifications, experience, and the total number of TLC (Teaching Load Credits) taught at Nashville State over time. In order to achieve the highest level of pay under the original pay structure, an adjunct would have had to teach a minimum of 30 TLC’s at NSCC.

Our adjunct faculty are vital to successfully educating our students and achieving our mission at NSCC. The Senate Adjunct Subcommittee seeks to encourage, support, and engage the adjunct faculty community in any way possible. Please assist us by spreading the word about the pay increase and CRTP certificate leading to faster Category 4 level attainment to your Course Leads, Department Chairs, and any adjunct faculty that you know. If anyone has questions, please contact Marla or Gracie.

Faculty Earn ACUE Microcredential: Creating an Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environment

by Amy S. Bryant, Associate Professor of Communication Studies and Director, The Teaching Center

17 NSCC faculty have earned the ACUE Microcredential in Creating an Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environment. 

During this semester, these faculty have engaged in professional learning about creating inclusive and supportive learning environments, implemented inclusive and supportive practices in their courses, reflected on the impact of these practices, and planned for how to use these practices in their teaching moving forward. 

Teaching practices included focusing on leading the first day of class, promoting a civil learning environment, engaging underprepared students, helping students persist in their studies, embracing diversity in the classroom, checking for student understanding, and providing useful feedback.

Belkis Barrios
Kristen Bradley
Courtney Foley
Michael Kiggins
Jennifer Knapp
Philip Lee
Diane Leonard
Eulunda Maxwell
Scott McRoberts

Zachary Mills
Barbra Mullaney
Eli Nettles
Eric Richardson
Marian Soliman
Dara Talibah
Breanna Waller
Beth Youngblood

Faculty Earn ACUE Microcredential: Promoting Active Learning

by Amy S. Bryant, Associate Professor of Communication Studies and Director, The Teaching Center

13 NSCC faculty have earned the ACUE Microcredential in Promoting Active Learning.

During the last months of the fall semester, these faculty engaged in professional learning about developing effective class sessions and lectures, teaching powerful note-taking skills, using groups to ensure active learning, using the active learning cycle, planning effective class discussions, and facilitating engaging class discussions.

These faculty learned about active learning, implemented active learning teaching practices in their courses, reflected on these teaching practices, and planned for how to continue using active learning practices in their courses for the future. Please join The Teaching Center in congratulating these faculty on their achievement.

Belkis Barrios
Kristen Bradley
Courtney Foley
Jennifer Knapp
Philip Lee
Diane Leonard
Scott McRoberts

Zachary Mills
Barbra Mullaney
Eli Nettles
Marian Soliman
Breanna Waller
Beth Youngblood

Kelsey Johanssen headshot

October Student Life Events

by Kelsey A. Johansen, M.Ed., Director, Student Life

Chris Saunders Headshot

Facilities Management Department Report

by Christopher Saunders, CFM, Executive Director of Facilities Management

For November the FM Team is preparing for the colder weather. The leaves have changed colors and are almost off the trees. FM, TSD, Police and Security are jointly initiating a “WINTER WATCH” Program, which will support the Farmer’s Almanac predictions of a hard winter.

The November Campuses Projects:

  • Clarksville:
    • Project in design interior finishes selections
  • Dickson:
    • New building programming phase
  • Humphreys County
    • Autoclave being installed
    • Ceiling tile repairs
  • North Davidson
    • HVAC
    • Tile floor
    • Autoclave installation
    • FEMA trees
  • Southeast:
    • Refurbishment project – going to bid
    • Jail gate
    • Garage sprinklers
    • Kitchen equipment purchases
    • Chiller project remedial adjustments
  • White Bridge:
    • H-K-C-A building project
    • Central plant phase #1 – going to bid

These NSCC Projects are moving forward with the efforts of all the Falcon Family.

Headshot of Janet Dennis

Human Resources News

by Janet Dennis, Personnel Assistant, Human Resources

New Hires

NamePosition/TitleDepartment
Patsy HamAdministrative AssistantPresident’s Office
Yukita WorthamStudent Service Specialist IISoutheast Campus
Howard AndersonMaintenance TechnicianFacilities & Maintenance
Robert TurnbowMaintenance TechnicianFacilities & Maintenance
TaMecca DansbyStudent Service Specialist ISoutheast Campus
Kathy FlickAssistant Director of AccountingBusiness & Finance
Erin BlackCollege CoachWelcome Center & Career Services

Status Changes

NamePrior Position/TitlePrior DepartmentCurrent Position/TitleCurrent Department
Frank PerrySecurity Guard Supervisor IIIPolice & SecuritySecurity SupervisorPolice & Security
Steven MageeAdmission & Records ClerkAdmissions & RecordsGraduation SpecialistAdmissions & Records
Telaina WrigleyCampus CoordinatorClarksville CampusDirector/Associate DeanHumphreys County Campus
Jacob LuddenHelp Desk Support TechnicianTSDComputer TechnicianTSD
Sam StringfellowHelp Desk Support TechnicianTSDComputer TechnicianTSD
Theo LehrHelp Desk Support TechnicianTSDComputer TechnicianTSD
Bryan TroutComputer Technician ITSDComputer TechnicianTSD
Reginald McLainComputer Lab TechnicianTSDComputer TechnicianTSD

Separations

NamePosition/TitleDepartment
Bianca LauryStudent Success AdvisorStudent Success Center
Kelby YoungbloodClinical Affiliate AssociateSchool of Health Sciences
Paul JensenCulinary InstructorSchool of Business & Professional Studies

The NSCC Voice

Founded 2017

Cliff Rockstead, Managing Editor
David Gerth, Assistant Managing Editor
Isabella Putman, Layout Editor

November 2023 Contributors

Dr. Gracie Andrews King
Amy S. Bryant
Janet Dennis
Tom Hayden
Dr. Shanna L. Jackson
Kelsey A. Johansen
Marla Perry
Christopher Saunders
Rob Tudor