JUNE 2009

June 29, 2009 -- NW-SCC Child Development Seminar on Ensuring the Success of All Children in Your Classroom

Muscle Shoals, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College's (NW-SCC) Child Development Program announces its summer seminar, "Ensuring the Success of All Children in Your Classroom," to be held Saturday, July 18, 2009 on the Shoals Campus, in the Bevill Center, Building 121 from 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon. The summer conference will feature two concurrent group sessions and exhibitors:
Session I: Autism Spectrum Disorder: Making Sense of My World. Carol McGuire, Project Manager for the Childcare Enhancement With a Purpose Project UCP of Huntsville, will present the first session on Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder which affects the way the brain interprets stimuli and communicates information. Children diagnosed with ASD have significant challenges concerning their communication and social skills.
McGuire will provide general descriptions of children who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and provide suggestions of possible teaching strategies and methods to use with children that will avoid inappropriate / disruptive responses in their classrooms.
Session II: "Identifying Children's Needs: How to Use a Developmental Checklist." Amber Hester, Childcare Enhancement with a Purpose (CEEP) Instructor / Development Specialist, United Cerebral Palsy Center, will explore with participants the social, emotional, physical and intellectual development of children and "how-to" use developmental checklists when working with children in all settings.
Exhibitors for the seminar will be on-hand to share area resources including information on the Parenting Assistance Line (PAL). PAL is a collaborative service of the University of Alabama Child Development Resources and the Alabama Children's Trust Fund. When callers call the toll-free number, 1-866-962-3030, a parenting resource specialist will answer the phone, listen, then offer helpful information and support. Callers can also request free literature about their specific parenting concerns.
C.E.U. credit is available for the seminar.
For additional information, contact: Sue Gibbs, NS-SCC Child Development 256-331-5351 or email at sgibbs@nwscc.edu.

June 19, 2009 -- Northwest-Shoals offers Summer Nursing Assistant Course

Muscle Shoals & Phil Campbell, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community (NW-SCC) is offering a Nursing Assistant summer course that includes instruction in theory, nursing skills lab and a long-term health care facility. The class will meet during the second mini-term, July 6th - July 31st, each Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Room 161 of the Bevill Center on the Shoals campus.
After successful completion of the 80-hour nursing assistant course (NAS 100), which includes 24-hours of clinical, students will receive a certification of completion that will allow them to take the State Nurse's Aide Certification Test. The test includes both written and clinical skills certification. This certificate enables the nursing assistant to obtain employment in nursing homes, hospitals or home health care agencies. This program does not require a high school diploma or GED certificate for admission. Students must be at least 18 years of age in order to take the State Nurse's Aide Certification Test which is now given on the NW-SCC Shoals campus.
Registration for the course is currently in progress. The approximate cost for the course is $525.00 and includes tuition, books, and liability insurance. An additional background check and drug screen fee will be charged separately. Contact Cindy Tidwell at 256.331.5305 for more information.

June 12, 2009 -- NORTHWEST-SHOALS Outdoor Leadership Program offers Mountaineering course

Muscle Shoals, Ala. - Northwest-Shoals Community College's (NW-SCC) Outdoor Leadership Program will offer an 8-day mountaineering course on climbing in Colorado. Students will leave from the Shoals Campus at 5:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 5th and return on Wednesday, August 12th.
After hiking a portion of the Colorado Trail, the course will feature a non-technical climb of a 14,423-foot summit on Mt. Massive. The cost for this course is $350 for students enrolled at the college and $675 for anyone else. Two hours of college credit are possible. Participants will be expected to have adequate clothing, boots, a 4400 cubic inch backpack, and a suitable sleeping bag. Food on the mountain will be supplied. Students will be responsible for meals while on the road and while in Leadville. Enrollment is limited to 14 students.
The Outdoor Leadership Program has conducted moutaineering courses in Colorado, cross-country skiing and dog sledding courses in Minnesota. "This is our fifth trip to the Colorado Rockies with students and it is an experience you won't soon forget. We'll be able to have a safe, successful climb," stated Dr. Bob England, Northwest-Shoals' Outdoor Leadership Program Director. The course is open to the public and no mountaineering experience is necessary. Designed to familiarize participants with the outdoors environment, the course provides extensive hands-on training.
The Mountaineering Course is just one of many aspects of the outdoors explored in the Outdoor Leadership Associate in Science Degree at Northwest-Shoals. Introductory rock climbing courses and backpacking courses are offered each semester as well as Wilderness First Response courses. The course curriculum is designed to offer courses that will transfer to four-year colleges as well as prepare students for outdoor entry-level professional positions.
For more information on registering for Mountaineering in Colorado or the Outdoor Leadership Program, contact Dr. Bob England at 256-331-5309 or email england@nwscc.edu.

June 5, 2009 -- NW-SCC hosts Professional Development with Dr. Terry O'Banion

Muscle Shoals, Ala. - Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) will host a special professional development session on June 12, 2009 that will feature Dr. Terry O'Banion, director of the Community College Leadership Program at Walden University. He has consulted in more than 800 community colleges in the United States and Canada
According to O'Banion, a Learning Revolution has been spreading across the higher education landscape for the past decade and has found a crucible for creativity and experimentation in the community college. The Learning Revolution requires us to "place learning first" in every policy, program, and practice by overhauling the traditional architecture of education. In his presentation at Northwest-Shoals, O'Banion will provide a framework for understanding the Learning Revolution and will cite examples of how community colleges are reorganizing to become more learning-centered institutions.
O'Banion is one of the leading spokespersons in the country on the Learning College. In 1997, Terry O'Banion's book, A Learning College for the 21st Century, launched a national reform movement in higher education that has significantly impacted how colleges do their work. O'Banion has been featured in numerous videos and as a keynote speaker on the Learning College in dozens of national and state conferences as well as in Australia, Japan, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates.
For 23 years O'Banion was President of the League for Innovation in the Community College. He retired on December 31, 1999. Under his leadership the League became an international organization serving over 650 colleges and was recognized by Change magazine in 1998 as "the most dynamic organization in the community college world."
In honor of his 41 years of service to education, three national awards have been established in his name, The Terry O'Banion Student Technology Award created by Microsoft, The Terry O'Banion Prize for Teaching and Learning created by ETS, and The Terry O'Banion Shared Journey Award created by the National Council on Student Development.
In a survey of 11,000 higher education leaders reported in Change magazine in January 1998, O'Banion was named one of eleven "Idea Champions" who set the agenda for all of higher education-and the only community college leader on the list. He has written 12 books and 135 articles on the community college. His book, A Learning College for the 21st Century, published in May of 1997, is in its fourth printing and was awarded the Phillip E. Frandson Award for Literature in the Field of Continuing Higher Education.
All educators are welcome. For information on attending, please call:
256.331.5313

June 5, 2009 -- NW-SCC offers Emergency Medical Dispatch Course

Muscle Shoals, Ala. -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) Emergency Medial Service (EMS) Program announces an Advanced Medical Priority Dispatch System (EMD) course July 30 – August 1, 2009 (Thursday – Saturday) at the Shoals campus. The class will meet each day from 8a – 5p. The cost is $295.00 which includes course materials and books. Healthcare Provider CPR is required in order to be eligible for national certification through the National Academy of Emergency Dispatch. For more information, contact Shelia Barnes at 256-331-5336.

MAY 2009

May 29, 2009 -- NW-SCC presents 2009 Kids in College

Muscle Shoals, Ala. - Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) Child Development Center presents the 2009 Kids in College "I've Got the Music in Me" summer camp. Summer camp dates are July 6th through July 10th.The camp is open to children entering grades 1st through 6th in the fall.
Campers will be provided with quality learning experiences with highly qualified staff providing 45-minute hands-on sessions in the areas of music, creative arts, and physical education with the theme of music. Healthy snacks will be provided daily.
On Friday, July 10th, the children will travel by Northwest-Shoals bus to the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in Tuscumbia to participate in an educational tour. The Hall of Fame staff will provide camp members with an enjoyable "Sock Hop" experience to conclude the camp's activities.
Kids in College request that all children be dropped off and picked up at the Shoals campus Patriot Center (gym). Children are to arrive promptly ay 8:00 a.m. so that the day's events can start and conclude on time each day at noon.
Registration cost is $65 per child or $60 per child for families with two or more children participating. Spaces are limited and early registration is encouraged. Camp registration deadline is July 1, 2009.
For More Information on the 2009 Kids in College summer camp, contact the NW-SCC Child Development Center at (256)331-5245 or 331-5258.

May 29, 2009 -- NW-SCC Selects Loretto High School Student for Presidential Scholarship

Muscle Shoals, Ala. - Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) selected Loretto High School graduate Chelsey Ferguson to receive the Tennessee Valley Educational Talent Search Presidential Scholarship to attend Northwest-Shoals.
The scholarship will pay $1500 per year and is renewable. NW-SCC President Dr. Humphrey Lee established the scholarship for one active participant of the Tennessee Valley Educational Talent from Lawrence or Wayne County each
year.
Ferguson, in addition to the Educational Talent Search, has been a member of the Beta Club, Student Council, Wrangles Pep Club Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Vice-President of the Future Business Leaders of America in high school. She also participated in the Tennessee Valley Educational Talent Search Leadership Day Program at Northwest-Shoals Community College.
Ferguson is the daughter of Kristie and Andy Ferguson of Five Points, TN.

May 27, 2009 -- NW-SCC Announces its 2009 Girls Basketball Camp on the Shoals Campus

Muscle Shoals, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) announces its 2009 Girls Basketball Camp, June 22nd & 23rd from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The program is designed for girls ages 7 to 17 and is a high intensity-fundamentals basketball bamp. It will take place at the NW-SCC Shoals campus Patriot Center (gym).
Participants may register by calling NW-SCC Head Women's Basketball Coach Kristy Ward at 256-331-5370 or email to wardk@nwscc.edu. Information can also be mailed to NW-SCC along with the registration fee. Checks should be made payable to NW-SCC and include driver's license number.
Mailing address:
Northwest-Shoals Community College
ATTN: Coach Ward
800 George Wallace Blvd.
Muscle Shoals, AL 35662
Information should include: the player's name, shirt size (Each participant will receive a Camp T-shirt), contact number and age.
Cost of the Camp: $75 for each individual participant, $60 each for family members. Three or more participants from the same school will receive a team discount.

May 20, 2009 -- NW-SCC Students Find Success in New Math Lab

Muscle Shoals, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) students are finding success in the new developmental math lab.
Students seeking to take elementary algebra (Math 098), a developmental math course, can now take it in a lab setting allowing them to work at their own pace. According to Brian Smith, Math Laboratory Teaching Assistant, students are able to spend more or less time in particular areas. "Students can move rapidly through the material based on their skill level. Some will require more time than others to complete a lesson," Smith stated.
Many of the students completed Math 098 prior to the end of the semester and were able to move on to Intermediate College Algebra (Math 100). The math lab is not set up like traditional courses. Students are able to meet in the lab and work from home. "Students don't have to get bogged down with the time line or an instructor," stated Smith. "Since the software provides immediate feedback, videos and examples, students are really able to work on their own. However, there is always someone in the lab to help them," he stated.
Math lab students seem to agree that they like the lab setting. According to Melissa Boggs (Tuscumbia), first semester freshman, enjoys the personal one-on-one attention she receives in the math lab. "I like the lab because I can move at my own pace. I have been able to complete two courses in one semester," she stated. Boggs is a pre-elementary education major planning to transfer to University of Montevallo after completing coursework at Northwest-Shoals.
Brandon Smith (Tuscumbia), second semester freshman, attempted Math 098 in the classroom before enrolling in the math lab course. "I took (Math 098) in the classroom at first, but the lab is much better. I love it because there are no surprises on tests. I feel as though I am better prepared for tests since they are based on the quizzes that I work on at my own pace," he stated. "I can make up work or do additional work to bring up my scores," he added. Brandon believes that the math lab can help any student be more successful in the class. "The class is a good opportunity for success in Math 098. It would be hard to flunk unless you just didn't try, if you try, you should be able to pass," he stated. Smith plans to transfer to the University of North Alabama (UNA) and major in business.
Elementary Algebra and Intermediate College Algebra were offered for the first time in spring of 2009. Since this time, about 32 students have taken the class. In summer of 2009, all sections of elementary algebra will be offered in the lab format. It will be staffed with instructors, a teaching assistant and tutors. Students will only be required to spend one hour a week in the lab.

May 14, 2009 -- Northwest-Shoals to Hold Open Summer registration May 26th.

Muscle Shoals & Phil Campbell, AL -- For students planning to attend Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) for the 2009 summer semester and have not registered, there's still time to do so. NW-SCC will be holding its annual open summer registration May 26, 2009, according to Admissions Director, Tom Carter.
The summer open registration will be held on both the Muscle Shoals & Phil Campbell campuses, Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Registration on the Shoals campus will be held in the Workforce Development Center (building 127) while registration on the Phil Campbell campus will be held in the Wallace Administration Building (building 301). Open registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. break for lunch at 12:30 p.m. and resume for the afternoon session at 4:30 p.m. and conclude at 7:00 p.m.
Summer classes begin Thursday, May 28th. For more information or to obtain a copy of the summer semester schedule, call (256) 331-5200 or visit the Northwest-Shoals Community College website at www.nwscc.edu.

May 14, 2009 -- NW-SCC Student Soaring High in Class and in the Skies

Muscle Shoals, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) student enjoys on-line education almost as much as flying.
Sophie Repolt, a part-time student at the college, is taking courses to be transferred to the Embry Riddle Aeronautical University where she is working toward a degree in Professional Aeronautics. She has three classes remaining to complete her degree.
As a native of New York City and having lived in Virginia and Delaware, Repolt now finds herself in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. She is a student, maintains her own 30-acre pine tree farm, and still hast time to take to the skies as a corporate pilot and flight instructor. She instructs out of the Shoals Flight Center based at the Northwest Alabama Regional Airport in Muscle Shoals.
At NW-SCC, Repolt has taken three on-line courses and has a 4.0 GPA.
She chose the on-line program at the college for its convenience, flexibility, and cost. According to Repolt, the courses were very convenient. "Being able to work on your assignments anytime of day is so convenient," she stated. "It does require self-discipline to keep on track with the assignments. I have to set goals and make a schedule of the things that need to be done. I also like the fact that I am working on my own and can finish my work early if I need to," Repolt added.
Repolt was able to schedule exams on the Shoals campus around her flights. "With a pilot's schedule, a typical classroom environment would not work. If it was not for the on-line course at Northwest-Shoals, going back to school would have been impossible," she stated. "I have really enjoyed the interactive math programs and problem solving software," added Repolt.
She found the cost of courses reasonable and the instructors extremely helpful. "Ms. Watson and Ms. Crabtree are right there to help when you require assistance. They won't hesitate to meet with you and offer extra material if needed," she stated.
Her advice to others wanting to continue their education and while maintaining their careers, "If you set a goal for yourself and you are determined, there is no reason why you can't reach that goal."
Repolt, who has been in Alabama since 2000, first decided she wanted to fly while living in Delaware near a small airport. At the suggestion of her father, she took her first flight and fell in love. She has been a licensed pilot for ten years and has the highest flight licenses available to her.
According to Repolt, she enjoys what she does. "I prefer corporate to commercial flying. Right now I am flying a Sabreliner Jet out of Huntsville," she stated. "I also enjoy my time in flight instruction. I have taught over 45 students to fly since I started instructing in 2002."

 

May 13, 2009 -- NW-SCC Phil Campbell Chapter Honored at International Phi Theta Kappa Convention

Phil Campbell, AL - Northwest-Shoals Community College's (NW-SCC) Alpha Zeta Iota chapter (Phil Campbell campus) of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society was recently recognized at the 91st Phi Theta Kappa International Convention in Grapevine, Texas.
Awards received included:

• Scholarship Hallmark Award
• Service Hallmark Award
• Distinguished Chapter Award
• Top 100 Chapter Award
• Distinguished Regional Officer Award - Stephanie Buffaloe (Alabama Region)
• Distinguished Regional Officer Team Award (1 0f 3 awarded internationally)

This year, more than 500 chapters competed for the Society's most coveted awards. The Hallmark Awards Program is the Society's capstone awards competition annually recognizing excellence in programs that promote the Phi Theta Kappa Hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Fellowship. Exceptional members, officers, advisors, college administrators and chapters are recognized annually at the Phi Theta Kappa International Convention for their achievements.
Phi Theta Kappa, the International Honor Society of the Two-Year College, has recognized academic excellence in the two-year college since 1918. The Society is comprised of more than 1,250 chapters at community, technical and junior colleges in all 50 of the United States, in Canada, Germany, U. S. Territories, the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, the United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Palau and the British Virgin Islands, making it the largest and most prestigious honor society serving two-year colleges.
Membership is based primarily upon academic achievement. The organization offers a myriad of opportunities for scholarships, intellectual enrichment and personal development through programs based on the Society's Hallmarks.

NW-SCC 2008-09 Alpha Zeta Iota chapter officers display their awards received at the 91st Phi Theta Kappa International Convention in Grapevine, TX. Pictured left to right:
Jessica malone (Russellville, AL), Vice-President of Communication and Fellowship;
Jordan Dollar (Russellville, AL), Vice-President of Service;
Jacob Berry (Bear Creek, AL), Vice-President of Leadership;
Eric Todd (Phil Campbell, AL), Vice- President of Scholarship;
Sarah Nichols (Spruce Pine, AL), President.

May 13, 2009 -- NW-SCC announces SkillsUSA Winners

Muscle Shoals, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) is proud to announce its NW-SCC Chapter of Alabama SkillsUSA winners for the 2009 State Competition. The State competition first place gold medal winners will represent NW-SCC in the SkillsUSA National competition in Kansas City, Missouri, June 22-27, 2009.

First Place Winner - Carpentry
Karson Cupp, Muscle Shoals, AL - Gold Medal. Cupp also recently received scholastic honors at Northwest-Shoals' Honor's Day Program for his achievements in Carpentry/Cabinmaking.
First Place Winner - Cabinetmaking
Jessie White, Lutts, TN - Gold Medal. White was also the recipient of a Shoals Homebuilders Association $2,500 scholarship, awarded to a second year student studying in a building-related trade with a grade point average of 2.5 or higher.
Third Place Winner - Cabinetmaking
Will Smitherman, Greenhill, AL - Bronze Medal
This year's competition was held in Montgomery, AL. According to Northwest-Shoals Instructor Charles Hardy, SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry representatives. "By working with business and industry, we are able to ensure that we will have a skilled workforce for many years to come. SkillsUSA is a tremendous program that helps each student excel," stated Hardy.
SkillsUSA, a national non-profit organization, is devoted to preparing students for careers in technical, skilled, and service occupations. It serves more than 260,000 high school, college, and professional members. Alabama has approximately 9,000 members who enjoy this organization's many benefits.

May 13, 2009 -- NW-SCC announces Phi Theta Kappa Awards at International Convention

Muscle Shoals, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College's (NW-SCC) Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK), Alpha sigma Beta Chapter (Shoals Campus) received several awards at the 2009 Phi theta Kappa International Convention in Grapevine, Texas.
Awards included being named one of the Top 100 Chapters and Shoals campus PTK president Jacqueline Jeffreys (Tuscumbia, AL) received the Distinguished Chapter President Award. Over 500 chapters competed for the Society's most coveted awards.
The Hallmark Awards Program is the Society's capstone awards competition which annually recognizes excellence in programs that promote the Phi Theta Kappa Hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Fellowship. Exceptional members, officers, advisors, college administrators and chapters are recognized annually at the Phi Theta Kappa International Convention for their achievements. Complete lists of awards winners as well as award category descriptions are available at www.ptk.org/hallmarks/.
Phi Theta Kappa, the International Honor Society of Two-Year Colleges, has recognized academic excellence in two-year colleges since 1918. The Society is comprised of more than 1,250 chapters at community, technical and junior colleges in all 50 United States, Canada, Germany, U. S. Territories, the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, the United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Palau and the British Virgin Islands, making it the largest and most prestigious honor society serving two-year colleges. Membership is based primarily upon academic achievement. The organization offers a myriad of opportunities for scholarships, intellectual enrichment and personal development through programs based on the Society's Hallmarks.

May 7, 2009 -- NW-SCC Receives "TAP" Grant to Provide Free Employee Training

Muscle Shoals & Phil Campbell, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) has received the Training and Placement (TAP) Program grant to provide free employee training to business and industries. The grant is designed to assist employers by training their employees in skills such as Workplace Ethics, Workplace Behaviors, Teamwork, Conflict Resolution and Decision Making. Some of the expected outcomes of TAP training are improvements in attendance, punctuality, work efficiency, employee retention rates and productivity.
The program is free of charge and training schedules are flexible to fit the needs of individual businesses. Northwest-Shoals applied for the TAP Program due to many employers expressing the desire for short term training in these "soft skills" for their employees. However, several employers needed a schedule that was flexible and could be "tailor-made" for their businesses. The training schedule can range from a one-day workshop to several weeks, if needed.
For more information or to arrange a consultation, please contact Donna Peck, TAP Director, at (256) 331-5299 or dpeck@nwscc.edu.

May 7, 2009 -- NW-SCC Honors Outstanding Students

Muscle Shoals, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) recently recognized and honored its top students during the college's Honor's Day Program on the Shoals campus. The college also received two scholarships from local businesses.
Bill Gough, Allstate Insurance, presented the William M. (Bill) Gough III, Memorial Scholarship to Jessica Yolanda Douglas, Florence, AL. This $1,000 scholarship was awarded by the Gough family to a second year student majoring in business with a 2.75 or higher grade point average.
The Shoals Homebuilders Association presented a $2,500 scholarship to Jessie Wayne White, Lutts, TN. this scholarship was awarded to a second year student studying in a building-related trade with a grade point average of 2.5 or higher.
Among those honored were the 2008-2009 President's Cup Award recipient Katherine Posey, Tuscumbia, AL. The daughter of Phillip and Kathy Posey, Posey was home schooled and is a graduate of the Muscle Shoals Bible Academy. Majoring in Accounting, she plans to attend the University of North Alabama in the fall. Her current GPA is 4.0 (3 semesters on the President's List) and her career goal is to complete a graduate degree in Accounting.
At Northwest-Shoals, Posey, the second member of her family to be honored with the President's Cup, is also the third in her family to be voted Mr. or Ms. NW-SCC. She currently serves as Sergeant-at-Arms for Circle K Service Organization and the vice president of communications for Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society on the Shoals campus. She was also a member of the 2009 Homecoming Court. She has devoted time to various service projects, including the March of Dimes, the Shoals Master Gardeners' Association, the Keep America Beautiful Project, the Better World Books Foundation, the NW-SCC Foundation, and Big Brothers, Big Sisters.
The President's Cup Award is the most prestigious honor awarded by Northwest-Shoals. The recipients of this award must have maintained a grade point average (GPA) of 3.7 or higher. Also, the recipients must have demonstrated leadership while attending NW-SCC and actively participated in community service. Nominations for this award were submitted by the faculty to the Award Committee for the final selection.
Honors, awards and scholarships were presented in several areas for leadership and academic achievement. Recognition of Highest Achievement for a 4.0 grade point average went to Adam Hazy, Katherine Posy, Ralph Rhodes, and James Jones.

Dr. Lee and Katherine Posey	Vanessa & Bill Gough and Jessica Douglas	Bobby Bryan and Jessie White

May 7, 2009 -- NW-SCC Honors Outstanding Students

Phil Campbell, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) recently recognized and honored its top students during the college's Honor Day Program on the Phil Campbell campus.
Among those honored were the 2008-2009 President's Cup Award recipient Sarah Frances Nichols, Spruce Pine, AL. Nichols is a graduate of Russellville High School. Currently majoring in General Liberal Arts, she plans to attend the University of Alabama and major in Spanish. Her current GPA is 4.0, and her career goal is to complete a Master's Degree in Spanish.
The President's Cup Award is the most prestigious honor awarded by Northwest-Shoals. The recipients of this award must have maintained a grade point average (GPA) of 3.7 or higher. Also, the recipients must have demonstrated leadership while attending NW-SCC and actively participated in community service. Nominations for this award were submitted by the faculty to the Award Committee for the final selection.
Nichols received several other honors, including the English award, Who's Who Among American Colleges and Universities, and the 4.0 Award. She is also representing Northwest-Shoals this year as a member of the All-Alabama Academic Team. At Northwest-Shoals, Nichols serves as president of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society on the Phil Campbell campus. She is also a member of the Student Government Association, the Bluegrass Club, the Jazz Band, and the Northwest-Shoals Chorale.

May 7, 2009 -- NW-SCC Announces Mr. & Ms. NW-SCC 2009

Muscle Shoals, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) recently announced Mr. & Ms. Northwest-Shoals Community College for the Shoals campus. Mr. & Ms. NW-SCC are selected by popular vote of the students, faculty and staff on each campus. The honor is based on academic achievement, leadership in extracurricular activities and community service.
Mr. NW-SCC Shoals campus is William Vaden of Florence, AL. Vaden is an Elementary Education major with a 3.773 grade point average (GPA). He currently serves as vice president of leadership for Phi Theta Kappa on the Shoals campus. Vaden has been selected as a 2009 Coca-Cola Bronze Scholar. As a Bronze Scholar, he will be awarded a certificate, bronze medallion, and a check for $1,000. He is also representing Northwest-Shoals this year as a member of the All-Alabama Academic Team. Following his graduation from NW-SCC, he plans to transfer to Athens State University and pursue a career as an elementary school teacher within the state of Alabama.
Ms. NW-SCC Shoals campus is Katherine Posey of Tuscumbia, AL. Posey is an accounting major with a 4.0 grade point average (GPA). She currently serves as Sergeant-at-Arms for Circle K Service Organization and the vice president of communications for Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society on the Shoals Campus. Posey has been selected as the 2008-2009 President's Cup winner, the most prestigious academic honor awarded by Northwest-Shoals. She was also a member of the 2009 Homecoming Court. Following graduation from NW-SCC, she plans to transfer to the University of North Alabama (UNA) and pursue a career as an Accountant.

May 7, 2009 -- NW-SCC Announces Mr. & Ms. NW-SCC 2009

Phil Campbell, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) recently announced Mr. & Ms. Northwest-Shoals Community College for the Phil Campbell campus. Mr. & Ms. NW-SCC are selected by popular vote of the students, faculty and staff on each campus. The honor is based on academic achievement, leadership in extracurricular activities and community service.
Mr. NW-SCC Phil Campbell campus is Ty James Tomlinson of Double Springs, AL. Tomlinson is the son or Lorne and Lori Tomlinson. He is a graduate of Winston County High School. Tomlinson received a Presidential scholarship to serve as a Northwest-Shoals Ambassador on the Phil Campbell campus. He is a member of the Student Government Association (SGA), Campus Christian Fellowship, the Science Club, and the president of the History Club. Tomlinson participates in intramural sports and was named to Who's Who Among American Universities and Colleges. He is pursuing a degree in Business Marketing and plans to transfer to the University of North Alabama (UNA) to further his education.
Ms. NW-SCC Phil Campbell campus is Carrie LaManda Fell of Phil Campbell, AL. Fell is the daughter of Billy and Lisha Fell. She is a 2007 graduate of Phil Campbell High School. Fell plans to enroll in the Registered Nursing program at Northwest-Shoals in fall of 2009. She is currently the Northwest-Shoals Head Cheerleader, Student Government Association (SGA) president, a member of the Campus Christian Fellowship, History Club, and was recently invited to join the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Fell was on the President's List for fall 2008, was named to Who's Who Among American Universities and Colleges and was chosen as the 2009 homecoming Queen for the Phil Campbell campus.

May 4, 2009 -- Renowned Historian, Dr. J. Wayne Flynt to speak at NW-SCC Commencement

Muscle Shoals & Phil Campbell, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) will conduct its 2009 graduation ceremonies on Saturday, May 9, 2009, beginning at 8:30 a.m. on the Phil Campbell campus in the Patriot Center (gymnasium) and 1:00 p.m. for the Shoals campus in the Patriot Center (gymnasium).

According to the NW-SCC Vice President of Instruction's Office, approximately 365 students have completed requirements for graduation during the 2008-2009 academic year. Approximately 200 students plan to participate in graduation ceremonies to be held Saturday.

Keynote speaker for the commencement is renowned historian, Dr. J. Wayne Flynt. Flynt currently serves as Editor-In-Chief of the new Online Encyclopedia of Alabama, which is the product of a partnership between the Alabama Humanities Foundation and Auburn University. Flynt, Auburn University Professor Emeritus, is a leading authority on Alabama history and Baptist history in Alabama. He was inducted into the 2005 Communication Hall of fame at the University of Alabama, which honors communication personalities who have brought lasting fame to the state.

He is the author of eleven books, including the Pulitzer Prize-nominated Poor But Proud: Alabama's Poor Whites. His most recent book, Alabama in the Twentieth Century, was awarded the 2004 Anne B. and James B. McMillan Prize. Also in 2004, his book Dixie's Forgotten People: The South's Poor Whites was re-issued. Flynt's books have won many awards, some multiple times, including: the Lillian Smith Award for Non-Fiction, the Alabama Library Association Award for Non-Fiction, Outstanding Academic Book from the American Library Association, and the James F. Sulzby, Jr. Book Award. He is co-author of Alabama: A History of a Deep South State, which was also nominated for a Pulitzer Prize.

Flint has actively devoted his life to bringing the issues of history and poverty and their social impact to the forefront of the public's consciousness. He was educated at Samford University, formerly Howard College (A. B., 1961), and Florida State University (M. S., 1962, Ph.D. 1965).

A reception, honoring graduates, will be held Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m. in the student center after the Phil Campbell Campus graduation ceremony. The reception will be followed by a pinning ceremony for the students receiving their associates in applied science degree in nursing at 11:00 a.m. in the Bevill Fine Arts Center. The Shoals Campus will hold a reception beginning at 2:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon in the Hospitality House immediately following graduation.

The Alpha Sigma Beta (Shoals campus) and Alpha Zeta Iota (Phil Campbell campus) Chapter of Phi theta Kappa Honor Society at Northwest-Shoals will host "Project Graduation", an initiative designed to help alleviate hunger and illiteracy in our community. the organization asks graduates, their families and others attending to bring books and canned foods to the commencement ceremonies. The proceeds of the effort will be used to benefit non-profit organizations in the community.

APRIL

April 17, 2009 -- Veal Hired as New Patriots Basketball Coach

Muscle Shoals, AL - Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) has hired former Phillips High School basketball coach, Scott Veal, as its head men's basketball coach, according to NW-SCC Athletic Administrator, Charles Taylor.
"Scott has the experience and love for the community we were looking for in a coach. I believe he can build a winning tradition with our men's basketball program," said Charles Taylor, Athletic Administrator. "He has been very successful coaching at Phillips; especially, the last couple of season. Scott is one of our own. He knows what a great asset athletics is to our community. I look forward to seeing our basketball team make great strides in the coming years both on and off the court."
Prior to coming to NW-SCC, Veal has been the head men's basketball coach at Phillips High School since 2002. Veal coached Phillips to a elite eight appearance in the 2008 Alabama High School state tournament and a final four appearance in 2009, the first in school history. He finished the 2008-09 season with a 31-5 record. Following his record breaking season, Veal received the honor of being selected to coach the North squad in the 12th annual Alabama North-South all-star game. Also, he received such awards as the: Marion County Coach of the Year, Northwest Alabamian Coach of the Year, Northwest Alabama Conference Coach of the Year and Times Daily 1A-3A Coach of the Year. Throughout his seven seasons at Phillips, Veal has amassed a 130-64 record, a .670 winning percentage.
Veal attended Northwest Alabama Community College (today known as Northwest-Shoals Community College) where he played basketball for two seasons (1989-90). He then transferred to the University of West Alabama to earn his Bachelor's degree in Physical Education and his Masters degree from the University of South Alabama.
Veal hopes to use his success on the high school level to help build the Patriots men's basketball program into an Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC) contender. "First off, getting this opportunity to coach at a place that is so dear and close to my heart is a dream come true," said Veal. "I am really looking forward to getting started and getting this program back to where it deserves to be in this state and that's on top."

Coach Scott Veal

April 14, 2009 -- NW-SCC Singers Hosts Musical Performance

Muscle Shoals, Ala. -- Northwest-Shoals community college (NW-SCC) will host a musical performance, Thursday, April 30th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Muscle Shoals High School Auditorium.
The concert will feature the Northwest-Shoals Singers, lead by Bob Head.
Selections will include classic vocal jazz selections such as "America the Beautiful" written by Darmon Meader of the New York Voices as well as John Phillip Sousa's "Stars and Stripes Forever" featuring a vocal piccolo part. Some of the featured selections include "Someone to Watch Over Me" and "Ain't Misbehaving".
Admission to the concert is $5.00 in advance and $7.00 at the door. For more information, please call Bob Head at (256) 331-5223.

Northwest-Shoals Community College's Singers:
Back Row (L-R): Bob Head (Director), Brandon Smith (Hatton), Micah Walley (Killen), Jonathan Hallmark (Hatton),
David Phillip (Florence), Stephanole Reed (Florence), Josh Hatton (Leighton)
Front Row (L-R): Emily Sanderson (Florence), Wendy Mayfield (Muscle Shoals), Stephanie Vess (Muscle Shoals),
Kayla Emmons (Muscle Shoals), Diana Lundy (Muscle Shoals), Elizabeth Love (Florence), April Reding (Greenhill)
Not Pictured: Robin Kitchens (Muscle Shoals)

April 14, 2009 -- NW-SCC Chorale & UNA Host Musical Performances

Phil Campbell & Sheffield, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) Phil Campbell campus Music Department in conjunction with the University of North Alabama (UNA) Music Department present their Spring Choral Concerts. The concerts will take place at the Lou B. Bevill Auditorium on the Phil Campbell campus on Tuesday, April 21st and at the Grace Episcopal Church, Sheffield, on Thursday, April 23rd. Both concerts start at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.
The concerts will feature the NW-SCC Concert Chorale as well as the UNA Collegiate Singers, Chamber Choir and Vocal Jazz Ensemble in an exciting and dynamic choral program.
NW-SCC Chorale features a select group of up to 30 singers that perform at college, community and civic events. Recipient of numerous awards, this group has performed in New Orleans, Memphis, Washington, D. C. and Carnegie Hall in New York.
UNA Collegiate Singers, a select group of up to 60 singers, is the premier choral ensemble on campus, which represents the University on tour every year. Recent tours have taken the choir to Mobile, New Orleans, Cincinnati, Chicago, Washington, D. C., Texas, and Orlando. They most recently performed Beethoven's Ninth Symphony and Prokofiev's Alexander Nevsky with the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra to great acclaim.
UNA Chamber Choir, an elite group of singers chosen out of the Collegiate Singers, this ensemble is featured on and off campus at events such as the Renaissance Faire in Florence and on tour with the Collegiate Singers. This spring, they had the privilege of representing the University of North Alabama on the Music Department's first international tour to Italy.
UNA Vocal Jazz Ensemble (VJE) is a small group chosen from among the members of the Collegiate Singers. This ensemble explores the uniquely American idiom of jazz, as well as pop and world music. The VJE has been featured at the W. C. Handy Music Festival in Florence, the Panoply Festival of the Arts in Huntsville, and on tour with the collegiate Singers.
Personnel for the concerts include:
Jeff McAlister, conductor, NW-SCC Chorale
Ian Loeppky, conductor, UNA Choruses
Linda McAlister, accompanist, NW-SCC Chorale
Eri Hayakawa, accompanist, UNA Collegiate Singers

NW-SCC Chorale Members & Hometowns
Tashia Anglin, Hackleburg, AL
Drew Benefield, Haleyville, AL
Kristin Bozeman, Winfield, AL
Josh Cash, Phil Campbell, AL
Jessica Childrers, Moulton, AL
Elizabeth Foster, Russellville, AL
Chance Hall, Russellville, AL
Travis Harkins, Tuscumbia, AL
Patrick Hellums, Red Bay, AL
Willie Holcomb, Hackleburg, AL
Serra Horton, Belgreen, AL
Cara Kimbrough, Russellville, AL
Sacora Martinez, Russellville, AL
Crystal McNutt, Haleyville, AL
Sarah Nichols, Russellville, AL
Kaitlyn Patrick, Phil Campbell, AL
Tommy Quinn, Hackleburg, AL
Christopher Russell, Haleyville, AL
Christopher Simms, Haleyville, AL


April 7, 2009 -- NW-SCC to Celebrate Community College Month through Special Events

Muscle Shoals & Phil Campbell, AL -- In honor of National Community College Month, Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) would like to announce a schedule of special events for the month of April.

Complete Schedule of Events:

• Wednesday, April 15: The Phil Campbell campus will host "Spring fling", an event for students and friends, to enjoy games & activities along with hamburgers, hotdogs and drinks. Classes will be dismissed from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Thursday, April 16: In honor of Community College Month the Patriots for Christ will host a free lunch and devotional for faculty and staff. The lunch will take place in the Hospitality House at noon.
• Tuesday, April 21: The Shoals campus will be hosting Honor's Day to recognize student accomplishments and academic excellence.
• Thursday, April 23: The Shoals campus will host "Spring Fling", an event for students and friends, to enjoy games and activities along with hamburgers, hotdogs, and drinks. Classes will be dismissed from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Friday, April 24: The Shoals campus will be hosting its annual "Senior Day" for high school seniors from Colbert and Lawrence city and county school systems.
• Saturday, April 25: The March of Dimes 2009 Shoals Area March for Babies will be held on Northwest-Shoals Muscle Shoals campus. Registration will be held at 8 a.m. with the event beginning at 9 a.m.
• Tuesday, April 28: The Patriots for Christ will host a free fish fry luncheon for NW-SCC students. The luncheon will take place in the Hospitality House at noon.
• Wednesday, April 29: The spring Program Advisory Committee luncheon meeting will be held on the Shoals campus at noon in the Patriot Center.

April 7, 2009 -- NW-SCC Announces Administrative Professionals Week Workshop

Muscle Shoals & Phil Campbell, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College's (NW-SCC) Student Chapter and the Shoals Professional Chapter of International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) will co-host the annual Professional Seminar/Student Conference during Administrative Professionals week. The Seminar and Educational Forum will be held Friday, April 24, 2009 on the University of North Alabama (UNA) campus.
Professionals and business students from throughout the Shoals Area and the state of Alabama are encouraged to attend this seminar for continuing education, networking, and personal development.
The guest speakers are Dr. Rob Koch and Jill Simpson. Dr. Koch is Director of the UNA Center for Writing Excellence. He received his doctorate in English Composition from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. His Grammar workshop will include an overview of business correspondence formatting, a review of recent trends and issues in grammar, punctuation and spelling and an update on what the United States Postal Service prefers.
Jill Simpson, Computer Science instructor, has been teaching computer classes at UNA and NW-SCC for over 4 years and has taught software classes to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and the National Guard Armory. Ms. Simpson is pursuing her doctorate in Instructional Technology. Her workshop will include information on formatting a business letter, the effective usage of Word, access and PowerPoint as well as using formulas in Excel.
For more information please contact Tywana McClinton, Business Division Instructor and Faculty Advisor to the NW-SCC Student Chapter at (256) 331-5212. For more information, visit www.iaap.net/alabama.com
The mission of IAAP is to enhance the value, image, competence, and influence of administrative professionals. IAAP is a not-for-profit professional association with 40,000 members and affiliates and over 600 chapters worldwide. the association works in partnership with employers to promote excellence. Its members include administrative assistants, executive secretaries, office coordinators, information specialists, and related administrative professionals. Many corporations, educational institutions, students, and international affiliate organizations also belong to IAAP.

April 1, 2009 -- NW-SCC Carpentry to be featured in "On the Job" Sunday, April 5th

Muscle Shoals, AL -- Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) will be featured at 12:30 p.m. in the next episode of "On the Job." This weekly TV show on Alabama Public Television (APT), was created by Alabama Industrial Development Training (AIDT). The half-hour television show will provide viewers information on how and where to find educational and career opportunities in Alabama.
The Sunday, April 5th episode of "On the Job" will feature the NW-SCC Carpentry/Cabinetmaking program and Charles Hardy, winner of the Chancellor's Award for Technical Faculty of the Year.
Viewers will also be able to watch the show online at www.onthejobtv.org, after the air date. "On the Job" which is hosted by Bobby Jon Drinkard, a former cast member of the CBS hit reality television show "Survivor," is produced by the AIDT staff. The staff is traveling all over the state to showcase available jobs and training opportunites to prepare Alabamians for employment.