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ERC’s $400,000 donation will double the size of TCC’s Skilled Trades Academy
Elizabeth River Crossings OpCo, (ERC), the operator of the Downtown and Midtown tunnels, continues its commitment to supporting the community and higher education with a new $400,000 donation to Tidewater Community College.
The gift is designated to support the expansion of the Skilled Trades Academy in Portsmouth. The Academy offers hands-on, short-term instruction for in-demand trade jobs. Programs are offered in welding, sheet metal, pipefitting, roofing, marine coating and more.
“We are grateful to Elizabeth River Crossings for its continued generosity in support of our students,” said TCC President Marcia Conston. “This gift ensures that even more students will be able to take short-term programs that have long-term gains.”
This donation will directly support:
New Programs that address emerging in-demand careers, with short-term hands-on programs.
Facility expansion that will double the size of the academy creating a 40,000- square-foot, fully equipped facility in Portsmouth.
Expanded program offerings by increasing class offerings and capacity.
“We are proud to help fund quality training for in-demand jobs and invest in the vibrancy of the Hampton Roads workforce,” said Anna Bonet, chief executive officer of ERC. “As an infrastructure company, we strongly value skilled trades and safety training programs. There is such a high demand across multiple industries in this region right now, and we want to help eliminate any barriers for these students to get the training they need and find higher-paying, and more stable careers. These students are truly the future of our economy.”
The Skilled Trades Academy opened in 2019 and currently provides training in 10 trades. The facility offers hands-on training in spaces that mimic a variety of job sites. To date, a total of 96% of students who complete industry-recognized credentials are hired by regional employers.
ERC is also a long-time supporter of TCC’s STEM Promise Scholarship program, helping to provide full scholarships for 20 students each year as they earn their associate degrees in STEM-related fields.
“We appreciate that Elizabeth River Crossings has been our pioneer scholarship supporter in the STEM fields for the past six years,” said Christopher Bryant, TCC’s vice president for Institutional Advancement. “We are thrilled that this new gift will expand the physical footprint of the Skilled Trades Academy and increase student opportunities for hands-on training in the trades.”
Help available over the holidays at TCC
Tidewater Community College is open virtually during the holidays to help students enroll in spring classes, explore career options, learn about financial aid and support services.
All college offices are closed beginning Dec. 23 through Jan. 2.
TCC’s Virtual Student Support Team will be available on Dec. 23 and Dec. 26-30 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., by phone at 757-822-1111 or email at enroll@tcc.edu. After the New Year, the team is also available on Jan. 2 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
In addition, after the holidays, on-campus and virtual support will be available with expanded hours and a Special Enrollment Day on all campuses.
Special Enrollment Day – All Campuses: Jan. 7 – 9 a.m. – noon
Spring Semester classes for the 15-week session begin on Jan. 9. Questions? Contact us at 757-822-1111 or enroll@tcc.edu.
TCC celebrates graduates during winter ceremony
During Tidewater Community Colleges 75th Commencement Exercises, Councilwoman and Graduation Speaker Delceno Miles had graduates lock arms and share a message of encouragement.
Together they shouted, “I am tenacious and talented. I am committed. I am capable. I am TCC. We are TCC!” You can see graduates in action here.
With cheers and laughter, graduates prepared to cross the stage as their degrees and certificates were conferred by President Marcia Conston.
The afternoon ceremony was held on Dec. 19 at Chartway Arena on the campus of Old Dominion University with more than 1350 graduates and their families in attendance.
The speaker for the graduates, Harvey Miller III, 22, who completed an Associate of Science in Liberal Arts, has his sights set on the U.S. Senate. He will continue his studies in political science and English at ODU or William and Mary.
Student Speaker Harvy Miller III.
Miller found success at TCC after failing at higher education the first time around. He calls himself the “Comeback Kid” and says that his initial failure was the catalyst for his success today.
“I needed to fail so I had a reason to change,” Harvey said. “I started working at a 7-Eleven, relishing the hard work and taquitos, and saving money so I could realize my dream of returning to school.”
Miller said, “I learned our greatest gift in this life is that failure and loss, trials and tribulations are not the end.”
Speaker Delceno Miles dedicated her message as a thank you and tribute to her mother, who was fiercely committed to the success of her children and instilled a love of community in them.
“We are her legacy, just as you are the legacy of those who came before you. You are the fulfillment of their dreams and prayers and perhaps your own dreams and prayers as well,” she said. “You are laying a foundation with your success at TCC for those who will someday follow you.”
Miles continued by saying, “This is a Commencement so you can commence with your dreams and aspirations. TCC was just a stop along the way to equip you for your destiny.”
Councilwoman Miles, a long-time friend of TCC, donates $5,000 to the college in support of student scholarships and more.
At the end of her remarks, Miles presented TCC with a $5,000 donation in support of student scholarships and more.
The ceremony continued as families and friends cheered and snapped photos. Graduates joined a TCC alumni network of 100,000 and counting.
If you missed graduation, you can watch the TCC livestream.
Computer savvy grad turns hobby into career path
Jared Cochran has always been interested in science and technology. In fact, in his free time growing up he built computers with his dad.
He got his start at Tidewater Community College as a dual-enrollment student taking general education courses in English and pre-calculus.
“As a homeschool student, I had a lot of freedom to explore different areas and satisfy my curiosity,” Jared said. “I took college courses early, as well as watched science and math educators in my spare time.”
When Jared, 21, started full-time at TCC after high school, he found the move to college to be seamless.
“It was a smooth transition and I’ve gotten a lot of help from faculty who’ve acted as advisors and kept me on track,” he said.
Jaren Cochran at work in the Joint-Use Library.
He also realized he could use his computer experience to build a career. “It was eye-opening when I realized I could take that hobby and find valuable work in a field I really enjoy,” he said.
This December, Jared is earning an Associate of Science in Engineering with a 3.8 GPA. He is one of more than 1,350 graduates earning degrees or certificates next week.
“You come in with these expectations that engineering is going to be really difficult, and it is,” he added. “But it is also manageable with the support of faculty.”
Jared says Professors Paul Gordy and Kenneth Grimes have been a big part of his journey. “They recommended me for internships and were always there to help. They also shared their knowledge and real-world experiences in our classes,” he said.
The Portsmouth resident also found the college’s engineering resources to be state-of-the-art.
“Everything in the program really comes together and makes so much sense,” Jared said “And the tools in the labs are very high quality. We have a giant cabinet full of circuits, capacitors, inductors and so many other tools to complete our lab work.”
While at TCC Jared completed two highly competitive internships. The first was with Old Dominion University Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center. The second was with ODU in a research program for undergraduates.
Jared plans to continue at ODU for a bachelor’s in computer engineering. He would one day like to work as a hardware engineer and has his eye on larger companies like Intel Corp.
“Anyone can do this with work with persistence and a little stubborn streak,” he said.
“Engineering is all about trial and error and getting up to do it again.”
Barnes and Noble College to continue to operate TCC bookstores
Tidewater Community College is extending its contract with Barnes & Noble College, which has managed the TCC bookstores since 2006. As part of the new contract, the MacArthur Center location will close on December 21, 2022, and move to the Norfolk Campus Student Center.
While the new Norfolk Campus store is under construction, the bookstore will operate in a temporary space inside the student center. The current Virginia Beach Campus bookstore will be undergoing renovation but will remain open. The Chesapeake Campus and Portsmouth Campus bookstore distribution centers will remain in place in the student centers under the new contract.
“We are committed to offering our students quality course materials and supplies for their studies,” said Karen Campbell, vice president of student affairs. “By making these changes to our operations, we are making our bookstores more accessible to enhance the student experience.”
As part of the new contract, the Virginia Beach Campus bookstore will be renovated with a fresh new design and function as an academic and social hub on campus. The Virginia Beach location will ensure students and faculty are supported with everything they need to succeed, including: the industry’s largest inventory of affordable physical and digital course materials, backed by a price match program, convenient options for ordering and receiving materials through in-store pick up or delivery.
All bookstore locations will also feature an array of TCC-branded apparel and products as well as school supplies.
“Our new Norfolk location will give us the opportunity to prioritize our inventory and ensure that we are meeting the needs of our student and faculty customers with an array of required course materials and TCC merchandise and apparel — while maintaining the best-in-class service that they also expect,” said Amy Randolph, regional manager for Barnes & Noble College.
For more information about TCC campus bookstores, visit here.
TCC named one of Newsweek’s “America’s Top Online Colleges”
Tidewater Community College was named one of “America’s Top Online Colleges” by Newsweek and Statista. This is the second year the college was recognized for its online degrees and certificates.
TCC is the only community college in Virginia recognized and one of 200 colleges and universities named nationwide.
With the increase in online learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this is the second time Newsweek and Statista have recognized colleges and universities providing online learning for adult learners.
Ranking for “America’s Top Online Colleges” was based on an online survey among U.S. residents who have used online learning services to obtain an academic degree or acquire knowledge and skills for their job or personal development.
Between June 20 and August 29, 2022, Statista surveyed about 9,000 individuals in the United States. Survey respondents indicated which institutions they used to obtain an online degree or where they attended an online course. In the next step, respondents shared their experiences by rating the institutions regarding several criteria.
Learn more about TCC’s online programs. To get started at TCC, contact the Virtual Student Support Team by emailing enroll@tcc.edu or calling 757-822-1111.
TCC alum launches non-profit focusing on mental health
Drew Ferebee found her purpose at Tidewater Community College.
“I never imagined that studying Human Services would be the most influential experience of my life,” she said. “My time at TCC helped me discover my passion and the faculty inspired me to walk in my purpose.”
The TCC alumna earned an Associate of Applied Science in Human Services in 2019 and went on to earn a bachelor’s in Human Services with a minor in children’s rights from Old Dominion University in 2021.
“I’m super thankful to my grandma who believed in me. She paid for my first semester at TCC,” Drew said. “I didn’t do well in high school, but once I got to TCC and found Human Services everything changed. I got super passionate and motivated and for the first time enjoyed learning.”
Drew credits Program Head Ivory Warren with keeping her on track and her advisors at TCC for connecting her with Human Services in the first place.
“Drew was a remarkable student and knew her purpose was to become that ‘Change Agent’ in people’s lives so that they could move toward the ultimate goal of becoming self-sufficient,” Warren said. “While pursuing her degree in human services, learning the applicable skills to add to her toolbox, she was unstoppable and always gave excellent insight, input and feedback during class discussions.”
While at TCC, Drew completed her program internship hours at Teens with a Purpose where she served as the community outreach coordinator. That experience sparked her interest in community service.
“I learned how to study and be a student at TCC. The college gave me a great foundation,” Drew said. “My professors were really patient and created a very personal experience for me.”
After graduation, Drew worked as a crisis intervention specialist for the YWCA and other agencies. Those experiences showed her that her goal was to find creative solutions for mental health challenges.
That’s why the 25-year-old Norfolk native recently launched INJOY, a non-profit with the mission of improving the quality of life for individuals through mental health awareness, advocacy and fun.
It may sound like a tall order, but Drew says she’s up for the challenge.
The group’s first event was a “Feel Good Festival” in May attracting more than 300 attendees. The event marked Mental Health Awareness month and included artists and performers. In addition, community members were able to sign up for mental health counseling if needed.
“We wanted to create something for those who don’t have access to therapy,” Drew added. “My goal is for people to be okay where they are and to bring them hope and joy.”
This fall, INJOY offered a workshop on “Understanding Black Mental Health – A Community Wellness Event” in October, and in November they are hosting a “Healing Your Inner Child” event.
Drew’s other professional involvements include serving as an advocate for mental health at the Virginia General Assembly. In addition, she presented at the Mental Wealth Expo in New York and a Self-Care conference in Norfolk.
“My message is simple for those who come to INJOY events and others,” Drew said. “You don’t have to be that strong person doing everything alone. When you experience mental health issues lean in, don’t fall back. The best thing is to reach out for support.”
She added, “I am forever thankful for the foundation TCC set for me to be successful and serve my community.”
Collision Repair grant to help prepare industry-ready grads
Tidewater Community College’s Collision Repair program received a $5,000 grant from Caliber Collision through the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF). The grant was part of the Benchmark grant funding through CREF.
TCC is one of three schools to receive grants from Caliber to help elevate the skills of graduates. The funds will be used to purchase new tools, ensuring that students are training using the same state-of-the-art equipment that is used in industry.
TCC’s Collision Repair program prepares students for entry-level positions in non-structural repair and refinishing. Coursework covers panel replacement and alignment, glass replacement, dent repair, plastic and composite repair, vehicle preparation and paint defect diagnosis.
Upon completion of the program, Students earn their Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) certifications for Pro Level 1 and 2 in Non-Structural Repair and Pro Level 1 and 2 in Refinishing.
TCC’s program is supported by the Hampton Roads Autobody Association. For more information, visit here.
Honoring those who served
Tidewater Community College’s Center for Military and Veterans Education (CMVE) invites students and alumni from all branches of the military to Veterans Day commemorations to be held on each campus.
Active duty, reserve, National Guard, veterans, spouses, family members and the community are welcome to attend a ceremony at the campus of their choosing to honor those who have served.
The college will commemorate the day with wreath-laying ceremonies followed by refreshments at each location.
Nov. 7 – 11 a.m. Portsmouth Campus Ceremony at the flagpole – refreshments to follow in the student center
Nov. 9 – 11 a.m. Chesapeake Campus Student Center
Nov. 10 – 11 a.m. Virginia Beach Campus Center for Military and Veterans Education – Building D (Kempsville)
Nov. 11 – 11 a.m. Norfolk Campus Ceremony at the flagpole outside the Andrews building – refreshments to follow in the student center Featuring special guest – Del. Angela Williams-Graves, VA House of Delegate, 90th District
A virtual “Roll Call” video will recognize TCC’s military-related students, alumni and staff who served in the Armed Forces. It can be viewed on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, at noon by visiting here.
For more information, contact TCC’s CMVE at 757-822-7645.
Free or low-cost child care available for students
Are you considering college, but concerned about the cost of child care while you attend classes and study?
There’s good news – TCC is here to help.
The college was recently awarded a $667,883 federal grant to provide quality child care for parents in need who are pursuing higher education at TCC.
Thanks to a grant from the Department of Education, TCC is able to offer the TCC Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) Scholarship. That means students with children and financial needs may qualify for reduced or no-cost child care, starting Spring Semester 2023.
“Parents will be able to attend in-person classes, complete internships or program requirements, and feel relief from financial barriers all while their children receive high-quality care,” said Jenefer Snyder, associate vice president of grants and sponsored programs.
Currently, the TCC CCAMPIS Scholarship provides students with care at local accredited child care centers. A list of approved providers can be found here. In the coming months, students will also be able to use the funds at TCC’s on-campus child care centers, which are set to reopen soon.
The time to apply for Spring Semester starts Nov. 1 and runs through Dec. 15, 2022.
The scholarship can be used only for the semester awarded. Students who want ongoing assistance must reapply for the scholarship each semester. To learn more and apply, visit here.
For help with enrollment, reach out to TCC’s Virtual Student Support Team at enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.
TCC alum builds career as journalist and publisher
Susan Smigielski Acker got her start at Tidewater Community College’s Virginia Beach Campus in 1985, back in the day when a single-lane road led to campus.
“TCC was my second chance after a failed attempt at ODU,” Susan said. “I thought I’d be at TCC for just a year, but I liked it so much I stayed for two.”
Susan completed all of her general education courses at TCC and went on to earn a bachelor’s in communications and English at Old Dominion University.
“I found my love for poetry at TCC when I took an English class with professor Ruth Mack,” Susan said. “She introduced me to Emily Dickinson and it is something I still read today. The rhythm of the words is something that draws me back time and again.”
After earning her degree, Susan spent more than 30 years as a journalist telling the stories of Hampton Roads by writing business news and feature stories. She wrote for Inside Business, the Daily Press and Senior Advocate to name a few. She also spent time in media sales.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Susan and her husband Scott launched their own media outlet, VA Peninsula Media, to provide a locally operated outlet to cover the events and stories that are meaningful to Peninsula residents.
The media includes “VA Peninsula Magazine,” a free bi-monthly print publication distributed at more than 90 high-traffic locations such as restaurants, medical offices, breweries and coffee shops.
They also provide an online newsletter under the same name that covers community and entertainment news. It started with 40 subscribers and now has over 2,000.
“It’s going really well, and we enjoy providing a voice for all things Peninsula. As for me, I’m combining my love of writing and experience in media sales and doing it all under one umbrella,” Susan said.
VA Peninsula Media plans to expand next month to cover city government and economic development.
“It’s amazing we’ve been successful considering our launch was during a time when nobody was going out. We were emphasizing virtual events then, now our goal is to get people out and enjoying the community.”
Susan encourages college students today to consider journalism and communication as a career. “We need good writers who can check their bias at the door,” she said.
“TCC gave me the start that led to a fulfilling career and that’s something I’ve always been grateful for,” she added.
Susan and Scott reside on the Peninsula and have two college-aged daughters, Charlotte and Julia.
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!
Students and faculty provide hands-on help for Portsmouth senior
Tidewater Community College faculty Melanie Basinger, a 20-plus-year veteran physical therapist, started the non-profit, Therapy on the Move, to honor a close friend who spent the last four years of his life in a nursing home following multiple falls.
Basinger says her goal is to “stop seniors from falling and to allow them to live every day to their full potential, in their own homes with people they love, doing things that bring them joy.”
During one of the sessions, Basinger met Rosetta Man. The pair formed a bond and later Basinger and her students “adopted” the senior. The group meet at Rosetta’s home and complete service projects that enable her to continue to live independently.
Rosetta primarily uses a motorized wheelchair to get around, and therefore needs extra help with household maintenance. More than 15 TCC students and Basinger spent Saturday, Aug. 27, at Rosetta’s doing yard work, painting, cleaning, repairing a wheelchair ramp and even washing windows.
Basinger, the program lead for TCC’s Physical Therapy Assistant Program, recruited PTA students and even a volunteer from the Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
Student volunteers included: Caitlin Bardenhagen, Kelsey Bohlinger, Maggie Crumrine, Tiara Diamond, Jesse Eisenpress, Timberly Hinton, Chloe Ladi, Tabbi Leon, Jodi Neely, Iris Savant, Dianne Segura, David Sorrells, CJ Ugalde and Alyssa Ware.
Therapy on the Move is a seven-week fall-prevention program free of charge to seniors. The Portsmouth YMCA is their first community location.
PTA Program Lead Melanie Basinger with Rosetta Man.
Basinger’s motivation for the volunteer work is simple. “I love helping others live life to the fullest,” she said. “Making a difference in someone’s life is what gives my life purpose.”
The group plans to return soon to do some minor home repairs and they are working to get a donation of vinyl siding from Home Depot for Rosetta’s home.
From TCC to Regent Law School
Tanya Mills remembers how her mom struggled when she emigrated to the United States from Cuba.
“The process was brutal and time-consuming,” Tanya said. “But we were committed to making a fresh start in America.”
Mills was 10 years old then. Now at 44, she is a Tidewater Community College alum who recently earned a master’s in law from Regent University School of Law.
Tanya Mills in the mock courtroom at Regent Univesity Law School.
Tanya hopes to work in immigration law, helping to pave the way for other families coming to America.
“I never thought I’d earn an associate degree. I didn’t think education was for me. But then I saw I needed higher education to do what I’m called to do,” she said.
A single mother of two sons, Tanya studied business administration at TCC and took all of her classes on campus. She says that her professors were knowledgeable and hands-on. And they instilled in her a passion for learning which she has passed on to her sons.
Now grown, they’ve both taken classes at TCC. Her oldest son, Paris Blount, 22, recently earned a cyber security degree from Old Dominion University. Her youngest, Cairon Sanders, 18, started at TCC this summer and is working toward an Associate of Science in General Studies.
“When my sons wanted to quit college, I reminded them that once you have your education, it can’t be taken from you,” Tanya said.
The first-generation college student is grateful for her start at TCC because she had the freedom to learn but was also held accountable for her studies by the faculty and academic advisors. “I didn’t do well in high school and found community college to be a buffer for university,” Tanya said. “TCC has courses that can help you figure out your future and the environment is super supportive.”
Tanya in front of a replica of the US Declaration of Independence in the lobby of Regent Law School.
Tanya continued and earned a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Regent University. In 2022, she added a master’s in law to her accomplishments. She plans to use her law degree to argue cases in the U.S. Immigration Court and offer mediation and provide legal advocacy for families and individuals battling the U.S. immigration system.
“I was once told I wouldn’t amount to anything. But I pushed through all of that and I’m really proud of where I am today.”
TCC annual award winners shine inside the classroom and out
Tidewater Community College recognizes five faculty and staff members from across the college with annual special awards on Aug. 18.
Selected by their peers, the honorees will receive their awards at TCC’s 2022 Fall Convocation to be held at the college’s Chesapeake Campus.
Professor of the Year
Professor of the Year – Thomas Geary, Ph.D.
Thomas Geary, Ph.D., is the Professor of the Year, chosen by the Faculty Senate. Geary, 40, is an English professor and has been teaching at the college since 2012.
“It’s such an honor to be recognized by my peers because so many of my colleagues have shaped me and helped me develop into the teacher that I am today,” Geary said. “It also shows that what I’m doing is working for students.”
In addition, Geary was recognized with the 2022 Outstanding Faculty Award by the State Council of Higher Education and Dominion Energy. He is one of 12 recipients out of 85 nominees recognized in Virginia for the award.
“I am humbled to receive such a prestigious award and be recognized alongside an exceptional group of faculty in our state,” Geary said. “Even more so, I am thrilled that TCC shares in this honor; our incredible administration, faculty and staff work so hard every day to guide our students to be successful in their academics and as contributors to our community. I’m grateful to work alongside everyone in fulfilling our mission.”
Geary regularly teaches composition, rhetoric, technical writing, developmental writing and humanities courses. He also serves as the editor of Inquiry, the peer-reviewed journal for faculty, staff and administrators at Virginia’s Community Colleges. He is a former elected representative on the Modern Language Association Delegate Assembly and an executive committee member of the Two-Year College English Association.
Since the return of face-to-face instruction, Geary has taught online, synchronous and asynchronous classes and maintained a blend to allow for a flexible classroom for students. Students are encouraged to attend in the format that suits them best. He also uses open educational resources, keeping education affordable by cutting out the cost of textbooks.
Geary allows students to revise their work without penalties and he gives flexible deadlines. “I’m creating a learning environment where compassion and empathy take center stage in my classes. This allows me to accommodate students and ensure their success, no matter the circumstances,” he said.
Geary added, “I really want students to be able to inquire in academic issues and engage in problems that affect the community. I want to have their voices contribute to the solutions in our community, state and nation.”
Geary is a member of the Faculty Professional Development Committee and serves as a search advocate for hiring committees. He is a former member of the Faculty Senate and former chair of the President’s Advisory and Planning Council.
Geary holds a Ph.D. and a master’s in English from the University of Maryland. He also has a bachelor’s in English from Christopher Newport University.
Geary married his wife, Meredith, during the COVID-19 pandemic via a virtual ceremony. The couple has a dog, Daisy, a chihuahua mix, and two cats, Monkey and Doodle. Geary can be seen around his Virginia Beach neighborhood walking Daisy for a least an hour a day. The couple enjoys spending time with their extended family who reside in cities throughout South Hampton Roads.
Faculty Special Achievement
Faculty Special Achievement Award Winner – Stacey Forgey, Ph.D.
Staci Forgey, Ph.D., professor of biology, was honored by the Faculty Senate with the Faculty Special Achievement award for her innovative teaching and dedication to student development.
Forgey, 38, worked on two special projects last year that contributed to her nomination. Working with faculty member Lynette Hauser, Forgey collected and analyzed a large set of data that compared the final grades in science courses for non-science majors. In the research, Forgey completed logistic regression to identify factors important for student success. Forgey wrote a presentation to share the findings and noted that environmental science courses led to higher success rates than biology courses due to the breadth of the topics presented. The research revealed disparities in success based on race, age and gender.
Forgey, a Virginia Beach resident, also presented on gender inclusivity in teaching biology at TCC’s 2022 Learning Institute. Forgey completed an extensive review of literature and resources to produce a thoughtful review, as well as a list of recommendations on how to be more inclusive when teaching science courses.
“I’m very honored to be recognized so early in my teaching career,” she said. “So many students endured difficult situations during the pandemic, and I saw that my classes gave them a place to belong.”
Forgey knows firsthand the value of community college, as she is a first-generation college student. Her mom followed her to college and earned a nursing degree two years after Forgey graduated with her bachelor’s degree. In addition, two of her sisters changed the course of their careers by attending community college.
“I enjoy teaching at TCC because we have students from so many diverse backgrounds. Community college is the first choice for those looking for a second chance,” she said. “We do the most good at TCC because we have students who really want to be here and are making big changes in their lives.”
Forgey holds a Ph.D. in community college leadership and a master’s in biology from Old Dominion University. She earned her bachelor’s in biology from Niagara University.
During the pandemic, Forgey jumped into college governance to stay connected with her peers. She served on the Program Prioritization Committee, the PACE (Progressive Academic and Career Experience) Assessment, the General Education Assessment, the Student Success Committee and the Steering Committee for the newly formed Center for Teaching Excellence.
Forgey enjoys gardening as well as kayaking and hiking with her family. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Forgey married her husband Robert outside at the Northwest River Park in Chesapeake. The couple has two sons, Bryson and Griffin.
Outstanding Adjunct Faculty
Outstanding Adjunct Faculty – Jeffrey Acosta
Jeffrey Acosta, recipient of the Outstanding Adjunct Faculty award, is a historian with a varied background that includes thirty-eight years of military service with the US Marine Corps. He completed three combat tours and two tours of duty as a field historian. He also spent eleven years as curator for the MacArthur Memorial and thirteen years as a defense analyst for General Dynamics.
“This award is really important to me because it’s recognition from my peers,” Acosta said. “I’m grateful to be recognized for my dedication to my students and for creating a positive learning environment both in and outside the college.”
Acosta, 67, enjoys helping students look at history through different contexts. He aims with each lesson to incorporate the rich diversity of the people and events of history. This includes lessons that cover both the tragedies and triumphs of the human race.
Acosta’s courses include writing assignments that require students to practice their critical reading and writing skills. “My students quickly learn that history at the college level is more than just rote memorization of dates, famous people and events,” Acosta said. “It is about history as a discipline that is connected in some way to all the courses they take at TCC and to their lives in a general sense.”
Acosta, a Virginia Beach resident, uses a variety of teaching tools, open educational resources, and books from the library to save on the costs of textbooks. He also offers flexible classes and students can come in-person or join via Zoom if they have to stay home to care for a family member.
Part of Acosta’s success as an instructor is that he is accessible to students who need extra help. He schedules at least one extra help session weekly via Zoom or in-person. He also reaches out to students who are not performing well and develops a plan to improve their performance.
Acosta is a member of the Faculty Senate and worked to develop the TCC Adjunct Faculty Growth and Evaluation Process with Dean Jenefer Snyder. He is the Faculty Senate representative with the TCC Academic Affairs Council and a member of the national board of trustees for the Filipino American National History Historical Society.
A proud TCC alum, Acosta noted that the courses he took at TCC in English, math and science prepared him for success as an artillery officer in the Marines and as a concept development and experimentation planner for General Dynamics.
Acosta holds a master’s and bachelor’s in history from Old Dominion University and liberal arts associate degree from TCC. Acosta is a graduate of the U.S. Marine Corps Command and Staff College. He also completed coursework at the U.S. Naval War College and National Defense University.
When he is not teaching, Acosta enjoys spending time with his wife of 40 years, Celeste, and their children and grandchildren. They spend their summers touring the country to learn more about history through actually visiting historical sites, national monuments and museums in the United States and Europe.
Classified Employee of the Year
Classified Employee of the Year – Brad Hooker
Brad Hooker was recognized by the college’s Classified Association for his innovative leadership in overseeing TCC’s warehouse operations.
As warehouse supervisor for close to a decade, Hooker, 63, developed processes to keep the warehouse operating effectively and in support of the needs of the college community.
“Brad has brought accountability and expertise to the warehouse operations, seeing each day as his chance to contribute,” said Thomas Hutchins, director of material management and Hooker’s supervisor. “Brad was on-site every day during the pandemic shutdown and allowed our warehouse to provide uninterrupted service to the college.”
During his time at TCC, Hooker set up a system that tracks outgoing shipments and implemented load sheets and driver logs so that all items can be tracked while in transit. He organized the warehouse using a bin location process, making it easy to locate any requested item. Hooker also helped to implement Inventory Direct, the college’s electronic ordering tool for supplies.
“We are a support department and every day I do my part to make this the best and safest warehouse around. We take pride in keeping everything clean and safe,” he said.
Hooker, a Chesapeake resident, also oversees the surplus warehouse which is particularly vital when budgets are tight. “Brad answers inquiries about available items and arranges opportunities for staff to walk through to look at furniture and equipment that can be put back into use,” said Lynn Hundley, facilities project manager. “This saves resources to support the college’s mission and allows for funds to be used to purchase other items that are needed.”
Hooker has had a career dedicated to customer service, first as a trainer and manager for Farm Fresh and later as warehouse supervisor for Cavalier Telephone Co.
In his free time, Hooker teaches drums at Western Branch Music & Arts. His youngest student is six and the oldest is 68. Brad has been married for 40 years to his wife, Patricia Hooker.
“I’m very honored to receive this award and grateful for my job at TCC,” he said. “It’s rewarding to do my part to support the college and our students.”
Wage Employee of the Year
Wage Employee of the Year – Alice Robinson
Alice Robinson is TCC’s Wage Employee of the Year. As the office assistant for the Arts and Humanities Pathway, Robinson greets students and ensures that their questions are answered promptly and accurately. “I’m overwhelmed by this honor and really can’t believe it. I’ve been in a group chat with my family all week and they are tickled pink,” she said.
Robinson, a Norfolk resident, has worked at TCC for 19 years and is an alum of TCC’s Administrative Support Technology program.
“Alice welcomes everyone with a smile and goes the extra mile to ensure students’ needs are met,” said Kerry Ragno, former pathway dean for Arts and Humanities. “She also works with faculty to ensure they complete administrative tasks that affect the student experience.”
This year, Robinson handled special projects including entering summer and fall classes in the system for registration and also preparing faculty reassign time contracts for signature. She also helped the pathway become more proficient in meeting add/drop deadlines and providing access to course syllabi for students with concerns.
A self-proclaimed people person, Robinson says that her favorite thing about the job is her interactions with students, faculty and coworkers. “Every day there are new challenges and people to meet. That’s the best part of my day,” she said.
Robinson earned a bachelor’s in hospitality and tourism management from Norfolk State University. She is the proud mother of six children and she has 20 grandchildren.
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 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 onlinefor assistance.
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 volunteers show new users the basics.
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. Students can utilize the online scheduling tool to select a time to pick up pre-packaged meal kits to prepare nutritious meals at home.
The Community Feed at TCC in Norfolk.Portsmouth Campus Community Feed.
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.
Computers for Student Success – a win-win for students
Tidewater Community College student Daniele Sparks is ready for classes to start next month. This week, she visited Computers for Student Success and picked up a newly refurbished personal computer at no cost.
“I always told myself that I’d go back to school when my son started pre-school,” she said. “The time is now, but with everything getting so expensive, I can’t afford to buy a computer. This is a real gift.”
Lee Grimm, Blake Nietling, Gary Noah, Erin O’Meara, Eduardo Jimenez, Matthew Walsh and Sal Trinidad with TCC’s Computers for Student Success.
Computers for Student Success is run by TCC’s Computer Club and Professor Gary Noah. It launched in 2009 and has distributed close to 15,000 computers since the start.
“When we provide computers for students in need, they are very appreciative. I gave the first 150 computers away myself. I’ve seen a lot of thankful tears,” Noah said.
He continued, “To a single parent who has no computer, getting one can mean the difference between success and failure. Students can’t make it to the computer lab or library because of work and childcare needs. Sometimes they don’t have cars. We’re getting rid a barrier for them.”
Computers for Student Success is wholly supported by donations from individuals and the community including Sentara Healthcare and Stihl Co.
TCC’s Computer Club members rehabilitate and update the older or in-need of repairing PCs and laptops and get them into the hands of students, families and nonprofits in Hampton Roads.
Jolina Santiago with her laptop from TCC’s Computers for Student Success.
“I’m so grateful for my new laptop. Without it, I’d have to drop my summer classes,” said Jolina Santiago, a TCC student who recently lost her car and home.
Computers for Student Success is taking applications now for Fall Semester. TCC students are encouraged to request a PC or laptop early as fall is the busiest time for the volunteer team. To start the process, use this form.
In addition to its service to the community, the club provides valuable hands-on experience to Computer Club members, many of whom are working toward Computer Science, Information Systems Technology or Cyber Security degrees at the college.
Computers for Student Success staffer Lee Grimm with volunteer Matthew Walsh.
“This is a great way to serve our community while gaining experience repairing computers and working as a team,” said Lee Grimm, who helps Professor Noah run the program.
Although Computers for Student Success volunteers are mostly IT students, anyone is welcome to join the volunteer team.
Volunteer Salvador Trinidad shows Daniele Sparks how to use her new PC.
“I like computers and diagnosing problems,” said Salvador Trinidad, a TCC student volunteer in business management. “My favorite part is helping students learn to use their new computers. My goal is to make it really user-friendly with no jargon.”
Noah added, “We’ve had some students who received a computer come back to volunteer and pay it forward for another student in need. We have stacks of computers to work on and everyone is welcome.”
More than 120 volunteers work with Computers for Student Success which is open Monday – Friday from noon to 5 p.m. The eight-room office is located in the Lynnhaven building, room E108, on the Virginia Beach Campus.
Computer Science Professor Gary Noah with stacks of refurbished PCs.
“We know the work we’re doing is changing lives. That’s why we are here 51 weeks of the year,” Noah said, standing in front of a wall of computers and thank you notes from grateful students.
For more information about Computers for Student Success, contact Noah at gnoah@tcc.edu.
Accelerated degree fast tracks your education
TCC can take you from here to anywhere. But did you know that you can get there even faster with the college’s Accelerated Degree Program (ADP).
The ADP enables students to earn their associate degrees in one year. Students can then fast-track their transfer to a four-year school to complete a bachelor’s degree because they enter the university as juniors.
Current ADP student Alyssa Tellez, 19, graduated from high school in 2021 and this July is earning her associate degree from TCC.
“My favorite thing about the program is how quick it was. There was no time to get bored with classes and I could fit college into my life and around family responsibilities,” she said.
Alyssa plans to continue her education toward a bachelor’s degree in psychology or sociology. She added, “If you want to get a degree with personal advising in a fast format, this is the program for you.”
The application deadline for Fall Semester is July 29, 2022 and information to apply can be found here.
Benefits of the ADP include:
*Complete an associate degree in just one year *Save thousands by completing two years of college at TCC versus a four-year institution *Receive personalized attention with low student-to-faculty ratios and regular academic advising *Attain admission as a junior-level transfer student at most four-year colleges and universities *Begin your bachelor’s program immediately upon completing the associate degree
The program is open to new high school graduates as well as adult learners, including military-related students, who meet certain academic requirements.
To receive more information about the program use this form. Help is also available through TCC’s Virtual Student Support Team at enroll@tcc.edu or by calling 757-822-1111.
TCC team takes third place in national robotic competition
Engineering students at Tidewater Community College took third place in the 2022 American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) Model Design Competition.
Teams from across the nation competed by building their robots and also developing a presentation about the design and build experience.
Jacob Ramirez and Jacob Hayes check the motors before the test run.
“I’m very proud of this team,” said William Simmons, Engineering professor and faculty advisor. “They did a tremendous job on their presentation and while the robot had a few hiccups, it was a great showing for the college.”
TCC team members are Delaney Theilman, Phillip Le, Danny Benson, Josh Hayes, Jacob Hayes, Jacob Ramirez and Will Dawson.
The TCC robot named “Merciless Tillie” is the fourth robot built by TCC students specifically for the competition.
“Practice makes perfect, and we did plenty of that preparing for this competition,” said Delaney Theilman, TCC engineering student and the team leader. “We had to come up with our own ideas and not use any kits.”
This ASEE competition is open to students at both 2-year and 4-year colleges. All of the TCC’s participants are members of the Engineering Club and the STEM Club.
The competition is held each year as part of the ASEE annual conference. The goal of the competition is to give student teams an opportunity to use the engineering design process to build an autonomous vehicle to complete a specified task and on a specified track.
Team Leader Delaney Theilman fixes coding issues.Josh Hayes prepares the robot for a test drive.
“Competitions like this one build on what we are learning in the classroom,” Theilman added. “We became sort of jack of all trades in getting the project completed.”
Student teams faced many realistic challenges in this competition, such as constraints on cost, size, batteries, and, of course, time.
“It was a really great experience to build and troubleshoot the robot. We learned a lot by figuring out what was working and what wasn’t,” said Jacob Ramirez, TCC engineering student.
Student Josh Hayes added, “We gained skills in using the Inventor software and coding. We also made all of the complex parts using 3-D printers, laser cutters and other tools in the lab.”
Building success! The robot takes off on the right track.
Student teams not only have to build a vehicle to navigate the course and complete a specific task, but also have to give presentations before a panel of judges and provide written reports that include a summary of the team’s design efforts, CAD drawings, parts list and a cost analysis.
Engineering student Jacob Hayes added, “We learned those soft skills, too, like how to convey information and work as a team. The best part was making new friends.”
To learn more about TCC’s STEM programs, contact the Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111.
Student engineers RockOn with NASA
The excitement is building for Tidewater Community College Engineering students who are now legitimate rocket scientists.
As participants in the NASA RockOn! program they will watch their science projects launch into space on June 23.
TCC RockOn! teams (from left to right and top to bottom) Joshua Hayes, Jacob Ramirez, Clarence Harper, Andre Ledger, Jacob Hayes, Delaney Theilman, Rebecca Pflug, Phillip Le, Nina Vahadi and Brian Ayers. Not shown are Danny Benson, Aileen Sanchez and Julie Wycoff, and faculty advisor Professor Michael Pastor.
The RockOn! program is designed for students to learn and apply skills in building experiments for suborbital space flight. Student teams from across the nation participate in the program.
TCC’s student teams are from the Engineering Club on the Virginia Beach Campus and STEM Club on Chesapeake Campus. A total of thirteen students spent weekends and after-school hours working on science payloads for a suborbital rocket out of Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia.
Team leader Nina Vahadi plans a career in mechanical and aerospace engineering. She is an engineering aide at Lockheed Martin this summer.
Led by student Nina Vahadi, TCC’s projects were funded by the Colorado Space Grant Consortium and the college. Specialized support was provided by faculty advisor Michael Pastor, an Engineering professor at the Virginia Beach Campus.
“We built kits 34 and 36, science payloads that will measure a lot of things in space. We’ve literally been doing rocket science at a community college,” Vahadi said.
Students received the kits and then built the payloads as a sort of competition between the two teams. “We received a box of parts and through Zoom meetings and clinics with NASA, we worked as teams to complete our payloads,” Vahadi said. “My favorite part of the project was the teamwork and seeing the project through to the end.”
The payloads will measure acceleration, humidity, pressure, temperature and radiation counts.
One of the completed payloads.
Engineering student and Navy veteran Brian Ayers enjoyed the project and found it to be a good career builder. “This has been a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience. I learned to solder and code and gained new skills,” he said.
Delaney Theilman with Jacob Ramirez and Jacob Hayes in the Engineering lab at the Virginia Beach Campus.
Phillip Le, a Mechanical Engineering Technology student added, “The pandemic kept us from doing projects together and with this program, we got to know each other and use each other’s strengths to complete a project. This has been a rewarding experience.”
Participants in RockOn! receive instruction on the basics required to develop scientific payloads for flight on a suborbital rocket. After learning the basics in RockOn! students may then participate in RockSat-C, where during the school year they design and build a more complicated experiment.
“It’s been really exciting working on a project that will launch into space,” added Rebecca Rflug who hopes to one day be an aeronautical engineer.
Delaney Theilman, a Navy spouse with her sights set on a career in computer and electrical engineering, added, “I liked the electrical components and applying what I’m learning in class. I also enjoy robotics, coding and the circuitry of engineering.”
Vahadi sent a shout-out to Theilman and the rest of the team and said, “We ran into problems and worked together to figure things out. One big win was when Delaney fixed a problem with the shield board. The project stalled until that happened.”
Nine team members traveled to the Wallops Flight Facility to watch the launch on June 23.
If you would like to become a rocket scientist at TCC, contact our Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111.
