An evening of dance highlights TCC Hispanic Heritage Month lineup

Tidewater Community College celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month under the national theme, “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation.”

The college’s keynote event honors Hispanic culture through dance. Come and enjoy an evening of exceptional performances as we learn about “La History Humana” (The Human Story). The event will be held on Oct. 19, 2022, from 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, 340 Granby Street in Norfolk.

This keynote event is presented by Norfolk’s Todd Rosenlieb Dance (TR Dance) as well as TCC’s Student Life and Global and Intercultural Learning Committee. Additionally, the event is free and open to the public.

Also, this year’s keynote event includes four dance presentations as follows:

The Horse of Many Colors is based on a Latino folk tale. It narrates the story of a magical creature who rewards, with magical assistance, the kindness of a boy named Juanito in winning the hand of the daughter of the mayor in a Hispanic town. Choreographed by Artistic Director Todd Rosenlieb and commissioned by Ballets De San Juan, Puerto Rico’s premiere professional dance company, this witty tale is full of humor and folkloric strokes expressed in a dance narrative full of athleticism, creativity and imagination.

Migajas de un Vals is a contemporary piece choreographed by Omar Nieves Delgado, former principal of Coda 21, Puerto Rico’s acclaimed contemporary dance company and Ballets de San Juan. Scored by the sound of Spanish songwriter Silvia Pérez Cruz y Påjaro, this work is filled with thoughts of love, lust and urban tones present in today’s Latinx generation of artists.

YMA is set to the virtuoso sound of Latina icon Yma Sumac. This modern dance work, choreographed by Rosenlieb, is a homage to Latino rhythms and shapes in a celebration of Hispanic culture full of exuberance and joy.

Campestre is choreographed by Ricardo Melendez, the former artistic director of the Ballet de San Juan. The dance is set to the romantic sound of Susana Baca, a well-known Peruvian singer and songwriter. This excerpt is the central piece to a larger work that explores the joys and pains of Latino peasant folks through a dance language combining classical and folkloric influences. This romantic duet is full of longing images and shapes, wrapped in sensual undertones and performed with breathtaking ability.

After the performances, a panel discussion will feature TR Dance’s Melendez speaking on how dance can be used to grow acceptance and cultural inclusivity. Other panel members include moderator Lynette Hauser, Ph.D., TCC biology professor and a member of the Global and Intercultural Learning Committee; Olga Torres Baker, primary consultant, Taina Consulting and Commissioner of the Virginia Beach Arts and Humanities Commission; and TCC Spanish professor Jessica Lynam, Ph.D.

Additional Hispanic Heritage Month events include campus and virtual events including:

Sept. 15 – 12:30 p.m.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Virginia Beach Campus Student Center
Kick-off Hispanic Heritage Month at the beach with food and activities.

Sept. 21 – 3 p.m.
Hispanic Heritage Month – Movie
Virginia Beach Campus Student Center, TV Lounge
Join us for the documentary “Guatemala: Heart of the Mayan World” in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Sept. 28 – 12:30 p.m.
Hispanic Heritage Month Fall Fiesta and Org Storm
Chesapeake Campus Student Center, Chesapeake Bay Room
Join the campus community for a Hispanic Heritage Month Fall Fiesta and also learn about student organizations by visiting with club members during Org Storm.

Oct. 12 – 12:30 p.m.
Actor Jackie Cruz shares her survival story
Virtual
Singer, actress and musician Jackie Cruz rose to fame with her role as Flaca in the Netflix series “Orange Is The New Black.” Cruz shares an inspiring story of survival, beating overwhelming odds, and pursuing and achieving your dreams.

Oct. 13 – 7 p.m.
Virtual Trivia Stream | Hispanic Heritage Month Edition
Virtual
Get online and check out our Virtual Trivia Stream for Hispanic Heritage Month!

For more information about campus events, visit TCC’s online calendar or email Dean Emily Hartman at ehartman@tcc.edu.

TCC helps student build a new life

Brian Marshall is one of those people who make you smile when you meet him. He’s affable, relatable and full of joy.

And that was on the worst days of his life.

Brian came to Tidewater Community College after losing his business and his home. He was living in his car, hoping to build a new life.

He came across an online ad for TCC while looking for a job.

Brian Marshall received help on TCC’s Norfolk Campus.

“That was the day I stumbled upon the biggest blessing of my life,” he said. “God placed me with the right people at the right time.”

A trained chef with 16 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Brian selected TCC’s Hospitality Management program. He completed his first semester with a 3.8 GPA while homeless and working overnight shifts at 7-Eleven.

“Those were challenging times with very little sleep,” he said. “But the support network I had at TCC made it possible to keep going.”

Early on at TCC, Brian connected with Kyndra Brown with the Open Door Project and Mel Scott with the Student Resource and Empowerment Center (SREC). He calls the pair his dream team.

“Helping students overcome barriers is what makes the job worthwhile,” Brown said. “Brian is a smart, determined student who now has the opportunity to succeed.”

The Open Door Project provides Brian with specialized support services, tutoring and keeps him accountable for his studies.

In addition, Mel at the SREC connected Brian with needed resources and even got him into transitional housing. “Ms. Mel made miracles happen. She opened so many doors and the results have been astonishing,” Brian said.

Even in the midst of the most difficult circumstances, Brian remained positive and upbeat.

Brian has a lot to smile about! He now has a new apartment and is excelling in school.

“If you have a focused mind, you can accomplish anything,” Brian said. “And you have to encourage yourself with positivity every morning whether that’s with uplifting music or listening to your favorite pastor or podcast. You have to keep your mind on higher things.”

During his TCC journey, Brian also received support and mentoring from Thomas Chatman, dean of student support services and Norfolk Campus dean.

He made connections with faculty members, including Peter Kane, the program head for Hospitality Management and Marlo Calloway, who taught his Student Development class. “I did a presentation in her class about where I want to go and what I want to be after TCC. It was very encouraging to take time to look ahead,” Brian said.

Brian is about to start classes for Fall Semester and things are looking up. He has his own apartment and a reliable job cooking in a well-established restaurant.

He hopes one day to open a restaurant venue where he can host events. He also plans to restart his catering business, Stormy Flavorz, and provide in-home chef services, as well as catering for universities and other venues. Right now, however, he is focused on school and earning his degree.

When he walks across the stage to celebrate graduation and receive his degree in 2024, Brian’s mom, Sharon Thompson, will be there to cheer him on. The duo has plans to take a cruise once that milestone is reached.

“I still have my moments when the tears come and I question everything,” he said. “But when I see the progress I’m making and doors opening, I know I’m on the right track. I do my best to learn from my past but look forward to each new day knowing that my faith in God will carry me.”

If you are a current or prospective TCC student and need support, visit the Student Resource and Empowerment Center and the Open Door Project on the TCC website for more information. For additional student support services, contact the Virtual Student Support Team at enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.

TCC has resources that actually help students thrive

Fall Semester is almost here, with classes starting on August 22. Now is the time to get ready for your next steps in school. The college offers free computers, emergency financial help, food and more. Here’s what you need to know.

Travis Johnson at Portsmouth Campus. — Travis Johnson earned two associate degrees from TCC. An Army veteran, Travis said, “TCC helped me financially and provided meals for my family. The people at the SREC kept me on track and supported my journey every step of the way.”

TCC’s Student Resource and Empowerment Center (SREC), is a Single Stop site that connects students with a variety of free and comprehensive social services and financial resources to help students stay in school. The SREC also has a Career Collection on every campus, where students can pick out a free, professional outfit for that important interview, internship or leadership opportunity. Reach out to the SREC online for assistance.

TCC staffers are ready to help you! Shown here: Mel Scott (SREC), Talesha Smith (The Community Feed), Charles Thompson (Student Center) and Crystal Kirby (Open Door Project). — TCC staffers are ready to help! Shown here: Melvilyn Scott (SREC), Talesha Smith (The Community Feed), Charles Thompson (Student Center) and Crystal Kirby (Open Door Project).

Computers for school
TCC’s Computer Club makes personal computers and laptops available through its Computers for Student Success program. Visit here for more information and details on how to apply.

Emergency Assistance
Student Emergency Assistance is available to help students with temporary, short-term financial needs that may hinder their education. Consideration is given to students that have experienced financial hardship due to an unforeseen emergency. Funds can be used to bridge the gap when students receive less financial aid than needed for school costs and emergency living expenses.

TCC has computers for students and even shows new users the basics. — TCC has computers for students and volunteers show new users the basics.

Mental health services available for students
TimelyCare is a new telehealth program for students. The service provides access to 24/7 virtual mental health care from anywhere in Virginia, with no cost to visit! TimelyCare’s TalkNow is on-demand access to a mental health professional to talk about anything at any time. You can also schedule counseling sessions and receive health coaching. To learn more, visit here.

Open Door Project
Open Door Project students come from disadvantaged backgrounds and are often first-generation college students. Offered on the Norfolk and Portsmouth campuses, this federally-funded program helps students with academic performance while providing support services to keep them in school. Eligible students receive academic advising, assistance with FAFSA completion, success skills workshops, career and transfer counseling, and one on one tutoring. To find out more, fill out this form.

Wi-Fi available on campus
If you are equipped with a Wi-Fi-enabled portable device, you may access TCC’s network in the following campus locations. Spaces are marked “TCC Student Wi-Fi Parking.” Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Chesapeake Campus: Parking lot next to the Pass Building. You may park in handicapped spaces. Of the four campuses, this area has the strongest external Wi-Fi signal.
Norfolk Campus: On Granby Street in front of the Walker Building and on College Place across from the Green District Administration Building. Note that these are metered spaces with the first hour free.
Portsmouth Campus: On Freedom Avenue alongside the B Building
Virginia Beach Campus: Driveway in front of the Regional Health Professions Center. You may park in the handicapped spaces.

For additional assistance with enrollment, advising or any other need, contact the Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111 or email enroll@tcc.edu.

Career Collection professional wear is available for students on every campus.

“I tell everyone looking to go to college to start at TCC” — Juanica Walker

Juanica Walker came to Tidewater Community College to train for a new career. Her goal was to be able to provide a stable life for her special needs son, Gianni.

She found her calling while working as a nurse aide and medical technician in private homes and facilities for the elderly and those with intellectual disabilities.

“As a nurse aide, I always found myself advocating for my patients and making sure they had the services they needed,” she said. “Whether that meant bringing them clothing, or a birthday cake, or connecting them with community resources.”

She added, “When I was considering a career switch, human services just made sense.”

Juanica, 32, was concerned about starting college in her late 20s, especially as a single mom with anxiety and depression. “At first, I thought I can’t do this. Then I realized if I can’t help myself, I’m not going to be able to help anyone else.”

Juanica connected with Human Services Program Lead and Professor Ivory Warren. And with hard work and persistence, she earned an Associate of Applied Science in Human Services in two years.

“Ms. Warren is one of those professors you don’t want to fail around. She makes you strive for success. She’s also a counselor and professor, offering us life advice while we learn in her classes.”

During this time, Juanica also found resources for Gianni, now four years old. With a set schedule and many doctors and therapists, he is thriving with his autism diagnosis. He will start kindergarten in the fall.

“I tell everyone who is looking to go to college to start at TCC. With the resources and helpful staff, you can start small and take steps toward your future.”

While studying at TCC, the college provided Juanica with a free laptop, Wi-Fi, financial assistance for her son’s daycare and meals through The Community Feed at TCC.

She also engaged with the community through the TCC Human Services Club and the Women Overcoming Whatever group.

Juanica is now working full-time for Jewish Family Services as a Guardian Representative. She has 30 clients that she helps connect with resources while taking care of their personal affairs and living situations.

“I recently connected one of my clients with a son that he hadn’t seen in years. It was a truly special moment when they saw each other again,” Juanica said. “Those moments make the stressful days all worth it!”

Juanica is continuing her studies at Old Dominion where she says she is well prepared. “There are no surprise moments, everything rings a bell because of my start at TCC.”

Leaders with purpose highlight TCC’s Black History Month virtual celebrations

Tidewater Community College celebrates Black History Month 2022 with a virtual presentation featuring Gina Paige, president of African Ancestry, Inc. The interactive conversation will be held on Feb. 23, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. To register for the event, visit here.

Paige co-founded African Ancestry, Inc. and in doing so, pioneered a new way of tracing African lineages using genetics. She created a new marketplace for people of African descent looking to trace their roots more accurately and reliably.

An industry pioneer, speaker and entrepreneur, Paige resides in Washington, D.C. and holds a degree in economics from Stanford University and an MBA from the University of Michigan. Paige was honored with an honorary Doctor of Philosophy from Global Oved Dei Seminary University.

The program will be followed by a question-and-answer session, moderated by ClauDean Kizart, TCC’s director of diversity, equity and inclusion.

The national theme for Black History Month 2022 is “Black Health and Wellness,” a theme underscoring the rich legacy of Black scholars, medical practitioners, and midwives to more recent initiatives focused on mental health for people of color.

TCC’s Black History Month celebration includes an assortment of virtual events throughout February. All events are open to the public.

Each year, Tidewater Community College honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during Black History Month with a distinguished service award to a TCC faculty or staff member and provides a scholarship to a TCC student. To view the 2022 honorees visit here.

For more information about Black History Month events, email Emily Hartman at ehartman@tcc.edu.

Black History Month Events

Feb. 2

Trivia Stream—Black History Month Edition
7 p.m. – Location: Virtual
Join us for a game show night streamed via Twitch TV complete with fun trivia questions, chat room engagement, secret words and up to $300 in prizes.

Feb. 9

Black History Month Movie: “Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Black Colleges & Universities”
Noon – 1:30 p.m. – Location: Lobby – Norfolk Campus Student Center
Black colleges and universities have educated the architects of freedom movements and cultivated leaders in every field. They have been unapologetically Black for more than 150 years. For the first time ever, their story is told.

Feb. 15

Financial Management and Wealth Building Session
5:30 – 7 p.m. – Location: Virtual
TCC’s Student Resource and Empowerment Center and TowneBank present a teaching series about budgeting basics. Learn about predatory loans, common financial mistakes and top budgeting tips.

Feb. 16

Black History Month Movie: “Black America Since MLK and Still I Rise”
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (several showings) – Location: Lobby – Norfolk Campus Student Center
This movie looks at the last five decades of African American history through the eyes of Henry Louis Gates Jr., exploring the tremendous gains and persistent challenges of these years. Drawing on eyewitness accounts, scholarly analysis, and rare archival footage, the series illuminates the past, while raising urgent questions about the future.

VCCS HBCU Virtual Transfer Showcase
6:30 p.m. – Location: Virtual
The VCCS Transfer Peer Group is hosting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) at this virtual transfer showcase. Attendees will engage with an alumni panel and representatives from Bowie State University; Elizabeth City State University; Hampton University; Howard University; Morgan State University; Norfolk State University; North Carolina A&T University; and Virginia State University.

Feb. 17

“Trivia Stream”—Black History Month
Noon – 1:30 p.m. – Location: Lobby – Norfolk Campus Student Center
Answer trivia questions pertaining to African American History and earn prizes.

Financial Management and Wealth Building Session
5:30 – 7 p.m. – Location: Virtual
TCC’s Student Resource and Empowerment Center and TowneBank present a teaching series about mortgage basics. Learn about home loans, managing credit and how to prepare for today’s housing market.

Feb. 22

“Mental Health First Aid with Chief Tyran Payne”
12:30 p.m. – Location: Virtual
Chief Payne is the police chief at Yavapai College in Arizona. He is a mental health first aid instructor and a dynamic leader. Payne is also a military veteran with PTSD who will be speaking about the personal and professional challenges of addressing mental health concerns

Feb. 23

Black History Month Movie: “Red Tails”
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Location: Lobby – Norfolk Campus Student Center
The movie highlights a squadron of Black pilots known as the Tuskegee Airmen who were finally given the chance to prove themselves during World War II as they battled discrimination on the ground.

Feb. 24

Black History Month Mental Health & Wellness in the Black Community
Noon – 2 p.m. – Location: Lobby – Norfolk Campus Student Center
Joni Hursey-Wingate, Licensed Professional Counselor with TCC, will explore mental health challenges in the Black community. In addition, interventions will be offered to help students live healthier lives.

Black History Month Movie “Loving”
12:30 p.m. – Location: Virginia Beach Student Center – TV Lounge
“Loving” is a true story about a young couple’s interracial marriage in 1958 that sparks a case that leads to the Supreme Court. Based on the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving.

Feb. 25

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Virtual Awards and Recognition Program
Noon – 1:30 p.m. – Virtual
Featuring William E. Harrell, President and CEO of Hampton Roads Transit. TCC’s annual distinguished service award winner and a student scholar will be recognized.

Feb. 28

Prominent in Portsmouth with Ambassador Bismarck Myrick
12:30 – 1:30 p.m. – Virtual
Meet ambassador Bismarck Myrick during a video feature with live a Zoom meet and greet. Ambassador Myrick is the former United States Ambassador to Lesotho and Liberia.

Atumpan: The Talking Drums
7 – 8 p.m. – Location: Virtual
Join us as the Atumpan Dance Theatre Company shares their unique brand of educational entertainment. This fun and interactive experience will engage and amaze you.

TCC has resources to help students achieve their goals

Tidewater Community College’s recent advertising campaign features the tagline, “We’re Here to Help.” And it’s true! TCC has resources to help you succeed in school.

Spring Semester is just a few weeks away with classes starting on Jan. 10. Now is the time to get ready for your next steps in school. The college offers help with internet access, free computers, tuition assistance, emergency financial help and food. Here’s what you need to know.

Cox Cable discounts for students
Thanks to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the college is able to offset the cost of internet service for students who qualify. TCC is working with Cox Cable to offer discounted internet service for students. To request service use this link.

Computers for school
TCC’s Computer Club makes personal computers available through its Computers for Student Success program. Visit here for more information and details on how to apply.

Wi-Fi available on campus
If you are equipped with a Wi-Fi enabled portable device, you may access TCC’s network in the following campus locations. Spaces are marked “TCC Student Wi-Fi Parking.” Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Chesapeake Campus: Parking lot next to the Pass Building. You may park in handicapped spaces. Of the four campuses, this area has the strongest external Wi-Fi signal.
Norfolk Campus: On Granby Street in front of the Walker Building and on College Place across from the Green District Administration Building. Note that these are metered spaces with the first hour free.
Portsmouth Campus: On Freedom Avenue alongside the B Building
Virginia Beach Campus: Driveway in front of the Regional Health Professions Center. You may park in the handicapped spaces.

Emergency Assistance
Student Emergency Assistance is available to help students with temporary, short-term financial needs that may hinder their education. Consideration is given to students that have experienced financial hardship due to an unforeseen emergency. Funds can be used to bridge the gap when students receive less financial aid than needed for school costs and emergency living expenses.

Meals, fresh foods and pantry staples
Tidewater Community College and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore have partnered to offer The Community Feed at TCC. Through the program, students can receive meals and fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as pantry items for their families. First-time participants must register via the online enrollment form, and upon completion, utilize the online scheduling tool to select a time to pick up pre-packaged meal kits to prepare nutritious meals at home. Online reservations for pick-up are highly encouraged.

Care Teams provide support
The CARE Team at TCC is focused on caring, prevention and early intervention for students experiencing serious distress. Help is available if you need it by using this form.

TCC’s Student Resource and Empowerment Center (SREC), is a Single Stop site that connects students with a variety of free and comprehensive social services and financial resources to help them stay focused on their academic goals. This SREC includes case managers on every campus. In addition, the SREC collaborates with campus and community partners to deliver educational programs and services that holistically empower students in their personal, academic and professional success. Reach out to the SREC online for assistance.

Students receive support to stay on track at TCC

Tidewater Community College’s recent advertising campaign features the tagline, “We’re Here to Help.” And it’s true! TCC has helped thousands of students with internet access, free laptops, tuition assistance and emergency financial help.

By the numbers

Help came in many forms including:

A total of 1,029 students received internet access support.
More than 1,400 first-time college students and others received a free laptop.
A total of 3,589 students were helped with tuition assistance.
Emergency financial assistance was given to 115 students, providing help with critical needs.

Here’s what students are saying

Roschone Anderson-Felton was homeless and in need of food. TCC helped her with rent, utilities and connected her with the Community Feed at TCC for needed meals, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. She also received a free laptop and internet access through a program with Cox Cable.

“I went from having my own apartment to sleeping in my car or at other people’s homes. I washed up in McDonald’s. If I had not had TCC in my corner, I would not be anywhere near where I am. I have grown tremendously through the blessing of TCC. TCC is not just a school. It’s my family. I have a support network here – everyone from Dean Chestnut to the people of Open Door and the financial aid team.”

Anderson-Felton is well on her way to earning a human services degree. She has a job at the City of Chesapeake Department of Human Services. She also has a new apartment.

Christopher Petrice is at work on his Information Systems Technology degree thanks to a scholarship from TCC. He also received a free laptop.

“The people in Open Door Project have put me on the road to a better future. They’ve been there to lend support every step of the way. If I’m stressed, they listen and provide strategies to help me balance school and work,” he said. “Also, the free laptop has been a lifesaver as I can plan out my studies better not having to go to the computer lab during the limited hours I’m not at work.”

Susan Brown-Clukey is a bus driver for a local school district. When her husband faced medical challenges that put him out of work, Brown-Clukey went back to school to pursue a higher-paying career. The mom of six is now at work on her associate degree in cyber security. She is using the G-3 scholarship which means, “Get a skill. Get a job. Get ahead.”

She also received a laptop and a hotspot and encouragement from the Student Resource and Empowerment Center (SREC). “I can now do school in between my runs, right on the bus. I don’t have to worry about a Zoom being dropped or losing what I’m working on when the internet goes out. I really appreciate the people at the SREC that helped keep me going. My son is also a TCC student and together we are going to finish TCC and from here go anywhere!”

More information about The Community Feed at TCC is available at www.FoodbankOnline.org/TheCommunityFeed. Additional information about the Student Resource and Empowerment Center is available by emailing Melvilyn Scott at mlscott@tcc.edu.

Veteran TCC staffer back on campus to help students thrive

Meet Mel Scott.

You’ll find her weekdays helping students at TCC’s new Student Resource and Empowerment Center (SREC).

“I’m passionate about helping students build a better life for themselves and their families,” she said. “We’re here to help students thrive while breaking down any barriers that could impede their education.”

Scott said she’s often surprised that students just don’t know what services and financial resources are available to them. “We make it easy to find those resources so they can save money for other things like books and childcare,” she said.

The Student Resource and Empowerment Center includes a Single Stop site that connects students with a variety of free and comprehensive social services and financial resources to help them stay focused on their academic goals. The college-wide initiative includes case managers on every TCC campus.

The SREC also has a Career Collection on every campus, where students can pick out a free, professional outfit for that important interview, internship or leadership opportunity.

Scott is a TCC alumna who is working on her Ph.D. in human services at Liberty University. She has 25 years of experience helping people do well in every area of their lives. She recently returned to TCC to become the lead case manager for the SREC.

Interested in learning more? Want to meet with Scott in person or via Zoom? Reach out to her by emailing mlscott@tcc.edu or by calling 757-822-1175. Or fill out the Single Stop benefit screener, and Scott will get back to you.