College News - Week of March 27

Report on student textbook affordability, from Richenda Hawkins: In January, college librarians began working on improving textbook affordability for our students. In a little over two months, it's estimated that their efforts will potentially save students $16,435 to $22,977 per year by replacing required print textbooks with an ebook edition, which is freely accessible to students through the LBCC Library Catalog and ebook databases. In addition to promoting the adoption of library resources, library staff have been collaborating with college departments and people statewide to build the necessary framework for supporting the adoption of Open Educational Resources, or OERs, at LBCC. The project is headed up by Media department manager Steve Smith and Library Department Chair Richenda Hawkins. Campus librarians have met with approximately 35 faculty, three deans, all department chairs in two college divisions, as well as student leaders and College Advancement, to explore ways to develop OER’s on campus. Several faculty members have already created OER’s, and many more are looking to adopt them for their programs. They also met with OSU to explore ways to increase OER adoption across both colleges, and are exploring a joint OER project with OSU and Central Oregon Community College this summer.

LBCC’s Board of Education approved a recommended three percent increase ($2.91) per credit hour for in-state tuition, a five percent increase ($10.20) for out of state tuition, and five percent increase ($12) for international tuition at the board meeting March 18. An increase in fees was also approved by the board, which includes a technology fee increase from $2 to $3.50 per credit hour; a student activity program athletic fee increase from $0.85 to $1.33 per credit hour; and an Associated Student Government fee increase of $0.50 for students taking 1-5 credits, and $1 for students taking 6 or more credits. The decision to increase tuition was based on the college’s current knowledge of expected state funding levels and our current budget model for the 2015-16 fiscal year. The final college budget will be approved at the June board meeting.

This year’s Distinguished Alumni Awards will be presented to Brad Gohr and Julie Huckestein, with a posthumous Alumni Award dedicated to Mary D. “Dee” Deems, who passed away Feb. 16. Each will be recognized at an Honors Reception held April 22 at 7 p.m. at the college. Brad is 1992 graduate of the animal science program. After working his way up from stocking shelves and sweeping floors, he is now president and CEO of Veterinary Services, Inc., a $175 million employee-owned animal health product distribution company with branches throughout the Western United States. Julie graduated from LBCC's business program, and was recently appointed as president of Chemeketa Community College. Her previous employment included various work in LBCC’s business office, where she served in her last position as director of Budget and Finance until 2001. Mary “Dee” Deems earned general education credits at LBCC before transferring to Willamette University to earn her bachelor’s degree. She worked in various positions at LBCC, including at the Lebanon Center, and directing the then “Albany Center." She helped to build LBCC's community education program into one of the largest community ed programs in Oregon.

Distinguished Alumni recipients Julie Huckestein and Brad Gohr,
pose with Mary "Dee" Deems sons, who accepted the award on her behalf.

LBCC Distinguished Citizen Awards will be presented to community members Bob Lowry and Doris Johnston at college Commencement in June. Bob, who will be 92 in September, is a respected and honored businessman, philanthropist, veteran and family man who is committed to making the community better for all. Bob has given generously to the Foundation over the years, and has served as a member of the Foundation Board of Trustees since 2006. His participation in the community has helped open doors for both the Foundation and the college. Doris currently serves as Board President of LBCC's Foundation Board of Trustees, where she provides vision and leadership, building strong relationships that lead to financial support for the college. As chairperson for "LBCC for the Community," Doris was instrumental in running the campaign that led to passage of the college bond measure last fall. Doris’ office at Pacific Power, where she serves as the regional community manager, became the campaign strategy site, where she organized a group of volunteers to spread the word. In addition, her list of civic involvement is long and varied, and she helps to raise funds for students and programs by serving on the college Foundation board, supporting the Boys and Girls Club of Albany, The United Way and Rotary.

Living Our Values: Occupational Therapy Assistant students invaded the state capitol for a day of learning and engagement Feb. 26. The students, with faculty members Ann Custer, Mashelle Painter and Jo Shear, attended Occupational Therapy Legislative Day, where they partnered with students and faculty from Pacific University's doctoral Occupational Therapy program, lobbyists with the Occupational Therapy Association of Oregon, and board members from Oregon's OT Licensing Board to meet with legislators about their profession. Students attended legislative sessions, toured the capitol and participated in a "Blue Sticky Wall" activity with Pacific U’s doctoral students, where they discussed individual roles and responsibilities in the OT field. LBCC students also prepared handouts for legislators on the Occupational Therapy Assistant field.

An OTA student posts to the "Blue Sticky Wall" during an activity at the state capitol,
led by OTA faculty member Ann Custer (in photo at right, standing at back).

  

College Values
Opportunity
Excellence
Inclusiveness
Learning
Engagement

College Core Themes:
Economic Vitality
Cultural Richness
Educational Attainment




Insider published by: LBCC College Advancement Marketing Office
Writer/Editor: Lori Fluge-Brunker, Communications Specialist, College Advancement