2023 Annual Report

Winter Commencement

Central Community College held its second winter commencement on Dec. 9 at CCC-Hastings.

Seventy-five graduates participated in the ceremony, which encompassed the Columbus, Grand Island and Hastings campuses.

Beth Boesch, a CCC-Columbus graduate and current member of the CCC Foundation Board of Directors, served as the keynote speaker. She began by detailing her “education safari,” which took 20 years to complete. Raised in Humphrey, Boesch received a scholarship to Benedictine College in Kansas and returned home after one year because she was homesick and in love. She got married, but the idea of education was still lingering.

“Luckily, CCC in Columbus had just opened its doors and accepted the credits I earned at Benedictine,” said Boesch, who began studying journalism. “But finishing college alluded me again. I found out I was expecting. I was close to finishing an associate degree, but I was young, insecure and I let the pregnancy hold me back.”

Some four years later, she got a job in the public relations department at the Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD), which is the state’s largest public utility. Two years later, her departing supervisor wanted her to take his position, but she would have to complete the necessary 12 hours to earn her degree at CCC.

“So I jumped in with both feet,” said Boesch. “While caring for my family, I worked full-time during the day, took classes at night and completed the courses in one semester. I also got the job.”

Boesch went on to serve as NPPD’s first female district manager, regional manager and vice president. She also earned a bachelor’s degree from Doane University. During her professional career, Boesch was named Woman of the Year by both the Nebraska Business and Professional Women and the Norfolk Business and Professional Women chapters. She retired from NPPD following 40 years of service.

In total, 345 CCC students earned awards following the 2022 fall semester.

Spring Commencement

Nearly 500 Central Community College graduates received their degrees during three commencement ceremonies on May 5. The Heartland Events Center hosted both the Grand Island and Hastings campus graduations while the Raider Fieldhouse hosted the Columbus Campus commencement.

Keynote addresses at all three campuses were delivered by CCC’s Outstanding Alumni Award recipients, Marci Ostmeyer, Columbus; Jannelle Seim, Grand Island; and Brent and Andrea Winfield, Hastings. A recap of each ceremony is below. For complete biographical information on each Outstanding Alumni Award recipient, please see the Alumni section of this report.

Columbus

Ostmeyer addressed 104 graduates and said her CCC days began in 1997 when she was a stay-at-home mother of three children. She registered for an American literature course through what was then known as the extended learning services (ELS) department but is now called community and workforce education. Ostmeyer was handed a packet, which contained a syllabus and assignments to be mailed in. Eventually, the ELS employees she had mailed her assignments to encouraged her to pursue an education degree through a partnership CCC had with the University of Nebraska-Kearney (UNK).  Ostmeyer took the challenge and then some.

“I started taking nine credit hours a semester from UNK and I filled up the rest of my classes with those packets,” said Ostmeyer, who completed 66 credits through packets. “There were some semesters I took 21 hours because I wanted to achieve this degree.”

In 2001, Ostmeyer graduated from CCC-Columbus and six months later, she graduated from UNK with her bachelor’s degree. She also went on to earn two master’s degrees. Following several years of teaching, Ostmeyer currently serves as the professional development director at Educational Service Unit 7 in Columbus.

Grand Island

A 2001 graduate of the Grand Island Campus, Seim went on to earn a bachelor and master’s degree and currently serves as the chief administrative officer for Hamilton Communications. She encouraged the 173 CCC-Grand Island graduates as they enter the workforce, to find a mentor.

“You don’t know everything,” said Seim. “Listen to those who’ve been around the block and soak up what you can. This doesn’t have to be a formal relationship, and the mentor may not even be aware that you’re listening and learning but keep your head on a swivel and your ears open.”

Seim mentioned the long-held belief that co-workers should not be friends and boundaries should be set on work relationships. She disagrees and recommends that everyone needs to find their people.

“Find those people who have your back, who will shoot straight, who will support you and be that person for someone else,” said Seim, who named her co-workers who do all those things. “These are people that I would call to bail me out. These are people that I would bail out.”

Hastings

Brent Winfield spoke for both he and his wife to the 197 Hastings Campus graduates, sharing four pieces of advice they have gleaned since graduating from CCC-Hastings in 2009.

“First, life may have other plans for you than the exact plan that you’ve envisioned for yourself,” Winfield said. He explained that while Andrea wanted to be a CPA, they thought it best that she help run the business. Brent said that he originally intended to become a history teacher but decided that teaching wasn’t for him. He later had an opportunity to buy the business he was working for.

Second, enjoy what you do. “Time goes by way too quickly to be unhappy in your career choice. Find something that makes you happy,” said Winfield.

Third, make sure to take time for your family. “When your parents look the way they do today, and you look up 10 to 20 years in your career, and then make time to see them, they will age quickly.” Winfield said. “Make the time to call home. Make the time to go back home and visit.”

Fourth, live within your means. “As Dave Ramsey has said, ‘Live today like nobody else and you can live like nobody else tomorrow,’” said Winfield.

SkillsUSA

The SkillsUSA Nebraska State Leadership and Skills Conference was held at Fonner Park in April. Skilled and technical science students from all over the state, including CCC, took part in more than 100 competitions. Additionally, a few CCC employees served as judges. This is a list of the CCC-Hastings students who placed in various competitions:

Additive Manufacturing

• 2^nd place – Challen Edwards, Jonathan Middendorf 
• 3^rd place – Brennan Brosseau, Landon Nelson

Automotive Refinishing

• 3^rd place – Jeremiah Kaup

CNC Programmer

• 2^nd place – Stefany Chavez-Gomez

Collision Damage Appraisal

• 3^rd place – Reagan Weisheit

Diesel Equipment Technology

• 1^st place – Adam Reinhard (took 7^th place at nationals)

Internetworking

• 1^st place – Brandon Berger

Mechatronics – High School 

• 1^st place – Fisher Cyza, Blake Raemaekers (took 1^st place at nationals)*

State Only Diesel Equipment

• 1^st place – Zach Smith
• 2^nd place – Aidan Lamb
• 3^rd Place – Owen Katen

Welding Fabrication

• 3^rd place – Jorge Garcia, Alexis Gutierrez, Kevin Ramirez

* Both Cyza and Raemaekers were Columbus High School students and both had taken courses at CCC.

Cultural Event

More than 12 different cultural food items were on the menu for students and employees to sample in April at the Hastings Campus.

The “Mingle with Cultures” event was planned and created by hospitality management students Taylor Henderson and Tina Park. As part of the event planning program, they applied for and received a mini-grant, and hospitality management and culinary arts instructors Kimberly Milovac and Ronnie O’Brien helped them line things up.

The food was paired with several activities. FOCUS hosted La Loteria for prizes, broadcasting students did a live broadcast over the 88.1 radio station, and the hospitality management students held “find your surname” and map pinning activities.

PTK All-State Academic Team

Six Central Community College students were named to the 2022 Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Nebraska All-State Academic Team, which is sponsored by PTK and the Nebraska Community College Association to honor students for academic achievement, leadership and community service. CCC members were:

• Brandon Berger is an information technology networking major at the Columbus Campus where he is vice president of scholarship for the PTK Chi Sigma chapter, vice president of the SkillsUSA chapter and an information technology tutor. He has been named to the president’s honors list for earning a 4.0 GPA each semester and received the Exceptional Student Award for information technology and systems. He will enter Wayne State College this fall to pursue a degree in network engineering.
• Challen Edwards is enrolled in the drafting and design technology program at the Hastings Campus where is a member of the PTK Beta Alpha Delta chapter. He has earned a place on the president’s honors list the last three semesters for earning a 4.0 GPA. After he earns his degree, he plans to move to Lincoln where he will start a job at Olsson, an engineering firm.
• Allison Durkop is enrolled in the academic transfer program at the Columbus Campus where she is active in the PTK Chi Sigma chapter, serving as its vice president of service, and as earned a spot on the dean’s and president’s honors lists. She also is an active volunteer in her community. She plans to attend Wayne State College this fall to pursue a degree in elementary education.
• Jessica Goodrich is enrolled in the nursing program at the Kearney Center and is a member of the PTK Alpha Tau Tau chapter and the National Society of Leadership and Success. She has been named to the college’s Dean’s list for earning a GPA between 3.5 and 3.99 for four semesters. She volunteers for various activities in Minden with her family. After graduating from CCC, she plans to work toward a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
• Aaron Hernandez is enrolled in the automotive technology program at the Hastings Campus and is a member of the PTK Beta Alpha Delta chapter. He has maintained a high GPA for the past five semesters at CCC. He plans to move to Lincoln and work at an automotive dealership.
• Zaya Stuart is enrolled in the academic transfer program at the Hastings Campus where she is a member of the PTK Beta Alpha Delta chapter. She has maintained a high GPA throughout her time at CCC. She plans to transfer to the University of Nebraska-Kearney to work toward a degree in business administration.

Jim R. DeBord Scholarship

Two students in the Heavy Equipment Operator Technical program at Central Community College-Hastings. have been presented with the Jim DeBord Scholarship.

Nate Mehling (right) and Brock Poppe (left) each received a $1,000 scholarship to assist them financially in their educational pursuits. Both Mehling and Poppe graduated in May. Mehling said he planned on returning to Scottsbluff to work while Poppe said he planned to relocate to Lincoln to work in land clearing or excavation.

Ron and Tammy DeBord established the scholarship in 2020 in honor of Ron’s father, Jim, who worked in the heavy equipment field for more than three decades. Jim and Ron attended this year’s scholarship presentation along with Jim’s grandson, Nolan.

Fall and Spring Plays

The theater department at CCC-Columbus presented plays in the fall and the spring. Appropriately, “A Night of Halloween One Acts” was staged in the fall while “Dearly Departed” was the spring presentation.

Metallica Scholars Initiative

Central Community College returned for the second year as part of the Metallica Scholars program, receiving $50,000 to transform the future of students in the community.

Since establishing the Metallica Scholars Initiative in 2019, All Within My Hands (AWMH) has been working with the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) to provide direct support for career and technical education programs across the US. Having grown from a concept to a thriving educational strategy that focuses on enhancing skills while providing services to students looking to enter a traditional trade or other applied learning program, the Metallica Scholars Initiative has generated a proven and measurable impact. AWMH will replicate the program further by adding ten more schools to the roster, investing $1.8 million to expand in year four.

Direct impact on job and wage growth drives the Metallica Scholars Initiative. On average, students who complete the program see new job opportunities and increased salary potential up to three times higher than pre-program. Central Community College will focus its efforts on more than 50 criminal justice students through scholarships, forensic kits, field trips and subject matter experts to provide real world application to the program.

“Central Community College is very pleased with the renewal of the generous grant from the All Within My Hands Foundation to continue to support students in our growing criminal justice program throughout central Nebraska,” said CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall.

Funded by Metallica’s All Within My Hands (AWMH) and led by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), the Metallica Scholars Initiative is designed to directly support students while elevating the importance of career and technical education. Metallica continues to use its global platform to speak out on the dignity of professional trades and community colleges that prepare students.

Crime House Open for Business

The community got an up-close look at the recently completed crime house at the Grand Island Campus during an open house in April. The 2,200-square-foot facility serves as a lab for CCC’s criminal justice students as well as law enforcement agencies and schools in the community. Different crime scenes were staged in rooms throughout the crime house and the Metallica Scholars led the tours. The crime house open house was a boon for media coverage as NTV, Local 4, Telemundo/News Channel Nebraska and the Grand Island Independent were there. Steve White of NTV also did a live shot at the top of the noon newscast.

Walter Scott Jr. Pathway Scholarship

Central Community College was selected by the Suzanne & Walter Scott Foundation to establish a Walter Scott Jr. Career Pathway Scholarship at CCC-Hastings. The foundation made an initial reviewable commitment of more than $6 million over the next decade for this one-of-a-kind program.

“We are excited to partner with Central Community College to deliver one of the most comprehensive scholarship programs in the state of Nebraska,” said Calvin Sisson, President and CEO of the Suzanne & Walter Scott Foundation. “The Foundation is committed to supporting youth through higher education and developing the next generation of leaders for a skilled and talented workforce. Walter Scott, Jr. believed that investing in young people through scholarships is one of the finest investments we can make as a society. We are proud to invest in the education of CCC students who strengthen communities and ultimately our state.”

The innovative program will annually provide up to 50 students in skilled technology programs with the opportunity for a full scholarship that covers tuition, fees and room and board. Additional amenities include an on-campus living and learning environment and program enrichment activities throughout the year. Student support and career placement will be coordinated by a full-time director dedicated to the program.

“This life-changing program will allow hundreds of skilled technology students make positive impacts throughout Nebraska,” said CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall. “Our faculty, staff and administration are grateful for this opportunity to implement the shared vision with this generous donor.”

The ultimate outcome is for the students to complete a paid internship, receive a career and technical education credential and be placed in a high-demand, high-wage and skill position within six months of completion, with no or minimal debt.

Apprenticeship Coalition Grant

Central Community College received a $4 million U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Apprenticeship Building America grant. Nationally, the DOL awarded more than $121 million to 30 organizations to strengthen and modernize existing registered apprenticeship programs.

CCC the funds were used to create a multi-network registered apprenticeship hub along with Northeast Community College and Southeast Community College and other support partners. The coalition serves 59 counties or half of the state’s population.

The apprenticeship hub will conduct outreach and education to help employers better understand what registered apprenticeships are and how they can be implemented in their businesses by partnering with Project ELEVATE.

JBS Provides Better Futures

In 2021, JBS USA launched Better Futures, a free-of-charge, two-year college tuition program. Better Futures has afforded more than 66,000 company employees and their dependent children with the opportunity to pursue higher education. As JBS’ Grand Island Beef processing plant is located 10 minutes from the Grand Island Campus, it seemed only natural that JBS employees would sign up and sign up they did.

The program commenced in the 2021-22 academic year with some 138 JBS employees from the Grand Island plant applying each semester and 60 students receiving a tuition waiver. In the most recent academic year, 2022-23, there were 186 applicants, and 61 students had their tuition waived.

In the two years since Better Futures commenced, JBS Grand Island employees or dependents enrolled in 1,953 credit hours on multiple CCC campuses. Under the terms, JBS pays 80 percent of tuition after federal and other state aid is applied.

“The JBS Better Futures partnership with CCC opens the opportunity of higher education to JBS employees or their dependents who may not have otherwise been able to pursue further education and training,” said Becca Dobry, CCC areawide director of financial aid. “It provides an amazing education and training for low to no cost to the employee and their family.”

CCC and WGU Team UP

Western Governors University (WGU), a nonprofit, fully online university, and Central Community College (CCC) entered a joint partnership that provides CCC graduates with an affordable pathway to earning their bachelor’s or master’s degrees from WGU. Together, the two institutions aim to create a seamless transfer of credits for CCC students transitioning to WGU to further their education.

The partnership between CCC and WGU was first announced when then Gov. Pete Ricketts signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with WGU to expand access to affordable, high-quality degree programs for the estimated 306,000 Nebraskans who have some college credits but no bachelor’s degree. According to the MOU, the State of Nebraska supports the partnership by enlisting relevant agencies to collaborate with and promote WGU in hopes of targeting underserved populations that include dislocated workers, veterans and rural residents. Additionally, WGU will join forces with local employers and employer organizations to meet workforce needs throughout the state.  

WGU offers students graduating from CCC more than 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business, K-12 teacher education, information technology and health professions, including nursing. The university pioneered online, competency-based education, a model that allows individuals to further their education and careers on their own timeline, no matter where they live. This approach allows students in Nebraska to take advantage of prior learning and work-based experience to move through courses at their own pace and graduate quicker.

Leapfrog Village

Fun and educational activities drew 150 to 175 participants to Stolley Park in Grand Island in late June. Kimberly Milovac, early childhood education coordinator at Central Community College, said this first big community event hosted by Leapfrog Village, gave families a chance to enjoy time together while participating in sensory, craft and building projects that can easily be replicated at home. About 25 current and former CCC students and employees helped at the event, which was held in collaboration with Hall County Community Collaborative, Home Depot, Hy-Vee and Super Saver. Leapfrog Village is the result of a CCC mini-grant and is aimed at giving students opportunities to help plan and host community-wide family engagement programming.

Dale P. Parnell Faculty Recognition

Michael David, a criminal justice instructor at CCC-Grand Island, received the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty designation from the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). He and 41 other recipients were honored during the AACC annual convention April 1-4 in Denver, Colo.

Since David joined the CCC staff in 2018, enrollment and graduation numbers have increased in the criminal justice program, resulting in an expansion from one to three full-time instructors.

Accomplishments include receiving two CCC mini-grants, signing a 2+2 agreement with the University of Nebraska-Kearney, starting the Criminal Justice Student Association and SkillsUSA Forensic Team, participating in the Metallica scholarship program and opening an on-campus Crime House.

League Excellence Awards

Ten Central Community College employees received the 2022-23 League Excellence Award from The League for Innovation in the Community College:

• Troy Davis (top row, left), advanced manufacturing and design technology instructor at the Hastings Campus, has been instrumental in multiple state and national projects. This is most notable with the designation of CCC-Hastings as a regional teacher training center for Haas manufacturing equipment where teachers are trained on the latest equipment for use in their classrooms. Davis also has participated in Nebraska SkillsUSA contests as a judge and has shared his knowledge with manufacturing leaders in the state through the Nebraska Manufacturing Advisory Council.
• Nick Freelend (top row, second from left), retired director of student activities and an academic adviser at the Grand Island Campus, was involved in promoting innovation, compassionate and engaging student activities in the Grand Island community for decades. Additionally, he sought opportunities to engage students in attending regional National Association for Campus Activities conferences.
• Lisa Gdowski (top row, center), financial aid director at the Columbus Campus, has served in leadership roles for state and national financial aid associations as well as taken on adviser roles that have positively impacted regional and national recognition of students through the Phi Theta Kappa organization. Most recently, she received a Distinguished Service Award from the Nebraska Association of Student Financial Aid Directors. She also is one of only a few Nebraskans to achieve national certification in financial aid administration.
• Catrina Gray (top row, second from right), college apprenticeship director, successfully launched an apprenticeship model for CCC, making connections with the state and national Department of Labor and receiving recognition from the Nebraska governor. She now leads a $4 million grant expanding and replicating CCC's successful model to the Northeast and Southeast community college areas of Nebraska to reach dozens of companies and a significant amount of student apprentices.
• Corey Hatt (top row, right), state director of the Nebraska Math Readiness Project. He successfully launched this innovative project that helps high school students build the skills needed to succeed in college-level math. This project includes public and private schools of all sizes in all Nebraska’s community college service areas. The results are exceeding national benchmarks in preparing students to reach college math competencies prior to high school graduation and in projecting student postsecondary success.
• Lindsay Higel (bottom row, left), former hospitality management and culinary arts program director at the Hastings Campus, was instrumental in developing innovative curriculum and updating facilities on the Hastings Campus. She expanded services by including new curriculum and adding a food truck. Higel promoted student involvement in national hospitality and culinary tours and attended an international conference in Australia and New Zealand to bring back best practices to incorporate in Nebraska.
• Jeff Kitson (bottom row, second from left), vocal music instructor at the Columbus Campus, received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music theory and composition from Michigan State University with a secondary emphasis in choral conducting. His choirs have appeared across Nebraska and at Carnegie Hall in New York City; the International Festival of the Aegean in Syros, Greece; the Vatican in Rome, and most recently in Austria and the Czech Republic. In 2018 and 2019, he was selected for the Oxford University Choral Summer Singing School in Oxford, England. At CCC, Kitson has served as president of the Faculty Senate and as lead of the humanities area.
• Joni Ransom (bottom row, center), college chief of staff, has reached hundreds of thousands of area citizens through regular news releases, the Community Connection alumni magazine, the Central Connection newsletter and web-based communications and marketing efforts. Always an advocate for our students, employees, alumni and communities, she has received writing, editing, photography and publication design awards from the Nebraska Press Women, National Federation of Press Women and District 5 of the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations.
• Joni Schlatz (bottom row, second from right), health information management services (HIMS) instructor at the Grand Island Campus, has been a leader in business technology and HIMS curriculum for decades, always up to date and on the cutting edge. She holds a national certification in HIMS while assisting with regional accreditation efforts and completing a sabbatical. She recently worked with the Nebraska Department of Education to present workshops on ethics, trust and leadership across the state after becoming an Ethics Integration Specialist for the MBA Research and Curriculum Center.
• Aaron Thiessen (bottom row, right), former groundskeeping supervisor at the Hastings Campus, has been a leader in arboretum development. He has held workshops on tree management and earned ACRT Arborist Training certification. He was instrumental in getting CCC-Hastings recognized as a USA Tree Campus and was part of CCC’s recognition for the 2022 Nebraska Statewide Arboretum’s Affiliate Excellence Award. He also hosted a Mid-Nebraska Tree and Landscape Workshop that draws attendees from across the state to the Hastings Campus each fall.

Brase Graduates From PLA

Taylor Brase, director of CCC’s early childhood education program, recently graduated from the Nebraska Early Childhood Policy Leadership Academy (PLA). Brase and 22 other professionals from early childhood and higher education, public health, nonprofits, civic organizations, businesses and economic development agencies took part in the six-month program.

The PLA specifically focuses on empowering citizen-advocates to play an active role in public policy conversations affecting early childhood at the local and statewide levels. Participants in the program work with specialists in public policy, data analysis and strategic partnerships to develop strategies for engaging with policymakers and promoting grassroots advocacy in their own communities.

The goal of the PLA is to create policy change to address the state’s child care crisis, strengthen the early childhood professional workforce and advance the well-being of young children, families and communities.

Launched in 2018, the PLA is an initiative of First Five Nebraska, a statewide, nonpartisan organization focused on promoting early childhood policy to create social, educational and economic opportunity for all Nebraskans.

Rieger Receives Ovation Award

Karin Rieger, associate dean of community and workforce education at Central Community College-Columbus, received the Ovation Award April 27 at the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce annual celebration.

The award is given annually to a woman who supports the goals of professional women and provides assistance on their behalf.

At CCC, Rieger has been instrumental in the growth of the Early College program and co-founded several events, including the Women’s Conference, Tomorrow Leaders Today and Community Builders, a regional effort to share learning among communities.

Her community service has included board terms for the Columbus Public Schools Foundation, Platte Valley Humane Society Endowment and the Center for Survivors. She has served in many roles at Peace Lutheran Church and has reached emeritus status as a Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce Commodore.

She co-chaired Taste of Columbus in 2020, she served as activities co-chair for the Cattlemen’s Ball in Columbus in 2021; and was part of a volunteer team that raised over $1.57 million to fund cancer research at the Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center in Omaha.

Rieger was in the inaugural class of Leadership Columbus and is is the current chair of the Columbus Days “Running of the Frankfurters Dachshund Race.”

In 2021, she received the League of Excellence Award from the League for Innovation in the Community College in recognition of her involvement in the National Endowment of the Humanities grant, Central Honors Institute camp for high ability learners and the Verizon Innovation STEM Learning grant.

She was recognized for her community engagement as Queen Isabella in 2018,  received the Charles Farnham Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016 and was named the 2015 Columbus Area United Way Outstanding Volunteer and the 1997 CCC-Columbus Employee of the Year.

CCC-Columbus Employee of the Year

Kim Noonan was named the Employee of the Year.

The award is presented annually to a Columbus Campus employee who demonstrates dedication, enthusiasm and innovation as well as a rapport with students and other staff members and a willingness to go the extra mile.

Noonan, the administrative assistant for the arts, sciences and business division, was described as a team player who personifies accessibility, dedication, cooperation, innovation and loyalty. She was also was noted for her diligence in scheduling classrooms, knowledge of Colleague, attention to detail, and ability to support everything from copying to proctoring, from purchasing to budgeting.

Noonan graduated from the University of Nebraska-Kearney with a bachelor’s degree in education. She taught special education for nine years and then operated her own Curves business.

She and her husband, Greg, have six children.

CCC-Columbus Faculty Member of the Year

Former biology instructor Lauren Gillespie received the Faculty Member of the Year.

The award is given annually to a Columbus Campus faculty member who displays excellence and innovation in teaching; rapport with students; and institutional, professional and community involvement.

Gillespie, a biological science instructor, was cited for her enthusiasm for her subject and the rapport she builds with students. Whether it is finding new opportunities for students to experience hands-on learning or helping them gain the confidence they need, she’s known for going the extra mile.

Gillespie graduated from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst with a bachelor’s degree in animal behavior and neuroendocrine mechanisms.

She worked as an avian field research assistant for Texas Tech University and the Cary Institute of Ecosystem studies and pursued her doctorate in biology at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Before coming to CCC, Gillespie was awarded a National Science Foundation fellowship in Taipei, Taiwan, studying the impacts of herbicides on the hormones and behavior of hermaphroditic fish, and then taught biology as an adjunct professor at Central Maine Community College in Auburn.

Grand Island Campus Spirit Award

Amy Hill received the 2023 Spirit Award at Central Community College-Grand Island.

The award recognizes Grand Island, Holdrege, Kearney and Lexington employees who make a significant contribution to CCC, focusing on service above and beyond what is considered a normal part of their job description.

Hill is regional director of community and workforce education at CCC-Lexington, but she works with many college departments and divisions, including Early College, Adult Education, student services and enrollment services. Her responsibilities include probationary students, Follett Campus Bookstore and even snow removal.

Hastings Campus Outstanding Service Award

Charles McGimpsey received the 39th Annual Outstanding Service Award at CCC-Hastings.

The award is presented annually to a Hastings Campus employee who demonstrates exemplary service to the college.

McGimpsey joined the CCC staff in 1974 as a custodian, the same position he holds today.

McGimpsey graduated from Osceola High School and has taken several classes at CCC.

Leading with Excellence

Nineteen employees completed the 2022-23 Central Community College Leading with Excellence program.

The nine-month program is designed to help employees identify internal opportunities for growth or advancement. Participants visit every CCC location, learn about college operations, build relationships, and gain from personal and professional development activities.

Employees that participated in the 2022-23 program were:

Administrative Office: Emily Klimek, graphic design specialist; and Pennie Morgan, senior director of human resources, who oversees the Leading with Excellence program.

CCC Foundation: Traci Skalberg, executive director.

Columbus: Michelle Evert, registration and assessment technician; Tod Heier, associate dean of arts and sciences; Tiffany Hunt, math readiness project coordinator; Amy Mahoney, Adult Education coordinator; John McKinney, associate dean of skilled and technical sciences; and Josh York, former associate dean of students.

Grand Island: Angie Araya, Academic Success Center director; Kerri Dey, associate dean of health sciences; Lisa Mount, library resource center supervisor; Ricardo Ramirez, financial aid technician; and Ulises Valencia, enrollment specialist.

Hastings: Jeff Buescher, agricultural sciences instructor; Susan Klusman, student activities and engagement director; Brad Lang, agribusiness instructor; Ronda Ryan, assistant registrar; and Kelsey Seidler, print shop manager and designer.

Barwick Receives NCCA Distinguished Alumni Award

CCC alumnus Scott Barwick received the Nebraska Community College Association (NCCA) Distinguished Alumni Award. He recieved the award at the NCCA conference in Grand Island

Barwick (pictured left) is a 1990 of what was then known as the machine tool technology program at CCC-Hastings. He then worked as a toolmaker for several companies in the tri-cities area, learning the trade and employing available technologies. Barwick gained experience creating metal stamping dies and plastic injection molds for parts that are used in everyday life.

In 2003, Barwick was working for a company north of Grand Island that closed shop. He found himself at a crossroads with 23 years of toolmaking experience and a strong desire to take charge of his career. Barwick was encouraged by many of his colleagues and friends to start his own tool shop. 

In January 2004, Barwick and three of his former associates opened Drake Tool & Design Inc. in Hastings. With hard work and determination, Drake has grown into a reputable and successful job shop. Some of Barwick’s customers include Toyota, Hornady, Nebraska Aluminum Castings, BUNN coffee makers and many more.

Barwick and his wife, Stephanie, are the parents of three children.

2023 Outstanding Alumni

Four CCC graduates were named Outstanding Alumni Award recipients for 2023. They are:

Columbus Campus – Marci Ostmeyer

Marci Ostmeyer earned an associate of arts degree from CCC-Columbus before going on to earn a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Nebraska-Kearney, a master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a master’s degree in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade administration from UNK.

She began her career as a fourth-grade teacher but later made the transition into teaching middle school and high school mathematics.

Today, Ostmeyer is the professional development director at Educational Service Unit 7 in Columbus and coordinates its efforts in supporting the 19 public schools in the ESU’s service area. As the ESU’s math specialist, she also helps school district teachers and administrators improve the teaching of mathematics and select high quality instructional materials.

She has been active at the state level as a member of the 2009 and 2015 Nebraska Math Standards revision teams and several Nebraska Department of Education committees. Since 2009, she has held numerous positions as a board member for the Nebraska Association of Teachers of Mathematics. Nationally, she was tapped to serve on committees for the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and is the chair of its Membership and Affiliate Relations Committee.

She received the 2008 Pinnacle Bank Teacher of the Year at Cross County Community Schools and the 2019 Donald W. Miller Distinguished Service Award for contributions to the improvement of mathematics education in Nebraska.

She and her husband, Rance, have three children and five grandchildren.

Grand Island Campus – Jannelle Seim

Jannelle Seim received an associate of arts degree from CCC-Grand Island in 2001. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Bellevue University in 2005 and a master’s degree in management from Doane College in 2008.

Seim’s career first focused on social service work with South Central Behavioral Services, CCC-Hastings and Nebraska State Probation-District 5. In 2016, she made a change and went to work at Hamilton Telecommunications where she is the chief administrative officer. She is part of the executive team that supports the company’s strategic initiatives and works closely with its board of directors and shareholders.

A passion for economic development led her to serve as president of the Aurora Housing Development Corporation (AHDC) and Aurora Construction Enterprises since 2018. She worked with Hamilton County community leaders to establish a $2 million revolving workforce housing fund, made possible by $750,000 of local donations and $1.25 million in grants from the 2020 Rural Workforce Housing Fund and Nebraska Investment Finance Authority.

In 2023, AHDC raised an additional $500,000 in funds and applied for an additional $1 million in Rural Workforce Housing Funds, which if funded, will expand rental properties in Aurora, continue building single-family houses in Phillips, and start focusing on housing in Hordville.

Seim and her husband, Anthony, have two sons.

Hastings Campus – Brent and Andrea Winfield

Both Winfields graduated from CCC-Hastings in 2009 with associate of arts degrees. Andrea went on to also earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Hastings College.

They are owners of Aurora Meat Block, which they bought in 2014. It is a custom processor and retailer of meats and specialty products, and they have continued to grow the business every year they’ve owned it.

In 2020, they purchased a food trailer and opened Winfield Sweets N Eats, which offers baked goods and a variety of meal options as well as catering.

Both businesses stay busy throughout the year. So do Brent (pictured) and Andrea, who not only thrive as business owners but also as the parents of three daughters.

Community Connection

If you would like to keep up on what other CCC alumni are doing and how they are making a difference in their community, please take a look at the Community Connection. The magazine is published twice a year and an electronic version is always available here. 

CCC Sustainability is Gold

Central Community College earned a STARS Gold rating in recognition of its sustainability achievements from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). STARS, the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System measures and encourages sustainability in all aspects of higher education.

According to Ben Newton, CCC environmental sustainability director, the school’s goals include carbon neutrality by 2034 and making strides toward greater resource conservation and sustainability each year. A major ongoing initiative from this report includes an overall reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 75 percent since 2014. CCC was recognized as being a leader in the state through hosting the sustainability pavilion at the Nebraska State Fair, increased composting efforts, being selected for a World Wildlife Fund Climate Week spotlight and two former sustainability interns being named Guinness World Records holder. CCC faculty and staff continue to expand educational activities through eBadges, energy technology workforce development, sustainability clubs and newsletters. 

With more than 900 participants in 40 countries, AASHE’s STARS program is the most widely recognized framework in the world for publicly reporting comprehensive information related to a college or university’s sustainability performance. Participants report achievements in five overall areas: academics, engagement, operations, planning and administration, and innovation and leadership.

Arboretum Recognizes CCC-Hastings

Central Community College-Hastings was presented with the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum’s (NSA) Affiliate Excellence Award at a ceremony on Nov.  4. Aaron Thiessen, who at the time was head groundskeeper for CCC, accepted the award at First Plymouth Congregational Church in Lincoln. The Affiliate Excellence Award recognizes excellence in plant collection diversity, maintenance practices and community engagement.

During his three-year tenure at the Hastings Campus, Thiessen served as co-chair of the Tree Campus Higher Education Committee and worked closely with faculty to conduct an extensive tree inventory using drone technology to collect pertinent data on species, size, health and location of more than 1,000 trees.

Thiessen also partnered with faculty to integrate a service-learning component into curriculum that enables students to actively participate and invest in the beautification of their campus while also gaining hands-on experience in urban forestry.

CCC has been an NSA affiliate site since 2008.

Administrative Office Makeover

The administrative office walkway underwent a planting update. A thoughtful selection of Nebraskan native plants, shrubs, and trees now adorn the adjacent landscaping bed. Some of the plants include the Dwarf Chinkapin Oak, the Snowflurry Aster and the Husker Red Penstemon. 

The project was a joint effort between the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum and the environmental sustainability office to expand pollinator habitats at all CCC campuses.  

Earth Month at CCC

Earth Day is a month-long celebration at each CCC campus in April with a wide range of activities, including sustainable craft making, student sustainability projects and composting demonstrations. The Kearney Center conducted tours highlighting the facility’s sustainable features and gave demonstrations of the electric vehicle charging station. The Hasting Campus hosted a morning bike ride to the wind turbine for a tour along with a stuff-a-plush table where students could make their own sustainably sourced stuffed animal. There were also several community organizations that participated in the student exhibition, including the UNK Wildlife Club, the Crane Trust, the Rowe Sanctuary and Conservation Nebraska.  

Introduction to Sustainability

One of the newest additions to CCC’s course offerings in spring 2022 was Introduction to Sustainability, listed under BIOS 1040. This is a must-have course for students wanting to become more knowledgeable about and engaged with the planet. The course covers the essential concepts of sustainability, including environmental policy history, climate change, biogeochemical cycles and sustainable infrastructure.

Esports Reaches National Championship Match

The CCC esports team capped it inaugural season by making it to the National Junior College Athletic Association national championship title match.

The esports team was the #2 seed in the Call of Duty: Cold War Gunfight national tournament and received a first-round bye. In the semi-final, the Raiders defeated Glen Oaks (Mich.) Community College, 3-1. That set up a meeting with top-seed Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs.

In the opening map, the Raiders, led by Justice Silver (bottom row, right) and Zack Hollingsworth (bottom row, left), built an early 2-1 lead before the Reivers took off and posted a 6-4 win.

IWCC scored first in the second map and CCC answered right back to make it 1-1. The Reivers rattle off three in a row to take a 4-1 advantage before posting a 6-2 victory.

In the third map, IWCC again took a commanding 4-1 lead when the Raiders responded with two points to cut the Reivers’ lead to 4-3. However, that’s as close as the Raiders would get as Iowa Western claimed the national title with a 6-3 win to close out the best-of-five match.

“Obviously, we were hoping for a different result, but Iowa Western came out strong and they knew the maps and the matchups,” said CCC head coach Lucas Lumbra (bottom row, center). “We were making some mistakes and they were forcing our hand a little bit. I’m super proud of our team. They did everything they could, played well and did their best.”

Two other CCC Call of Duty team members played prominent roles during the match. Jackson Peabody (top row, right) served as an advisor throughout each map and Ayden Veik (top row, second from left) served as one of the commentators for the online telecast.

Men's Basketball Returns to National Tournament

The CCC men’s basketball team returned to the NJCAA Division II Men’s Basketball National Tournament for the first time since 2014. After winning the Region 9 and the NJCAA North District championship (pictured), the Raiders were the 15^th seed matched against the second-seed Niagara County (N.Y.) Community College.

The game was close throughout and NCCC tied the game at 57-57 at the 7:48 mark of the second half, and from that point on, neither team led by more than three points. The Thunderwolves held on for the win, 72-70, after Blake Daberkow’s three-point attempt from backcourt fell short.

The Raiders moved on to the consolation round of the national tournament, meeting Mott (Mich.) Community College. With 32 seconds to play, Daberkow gave CCC a 57-56 lead as he made one-of-two free throws. The Bears passed the ball for the entire 30 seconds of the shot clock before Nate Brown sank a jump shot to take a one-point lead. CCC’s inbound pass was stolen away, and the Bears prevailed, 58-57.

“To lose two games by a combined three points at the national tournament is heartbreaking, but I can never ever fault the fight of our guys” said CCC head coach John Ritzdorf, whose team finished 22-11.

Following the season, Trey Deveaux was named to the NJCAA Division II All-America First Team, the first CCC player to do so in program history. Deveaux started all 33 games and led the Raiders in scoring with 18.9 points per game. He scored 20 or more points in 14 games. Raiders head coach John Ritzdorf was named as the Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference Coach of the Year, the Region 9 Coach of the Year and the NJCCA North District Coach of the Year.

Marshall Recognized

CCC athletics trainer Denise Marshall received the University of Nebraska-Omaha Distinguished Service Award for her outstanding contributions to the athletic community and to the athletic training profession. She is a certified athletic trainer for Columbus Community Hospital, providing athletic training services to CCC-Columbus and is the current president of the Nebraska State Athletic Trainers Association.   

Each year, the National Athletic Training Association's (NATA) Intercollegiate Council for Sports Medicine recognizes one individual for exceptional performance as a head athletic trainer in two-year colleges. Award recipients are actively involved in their community or campus, athletic training associations and promotion of the profession. Marshall received the award at the NATA national convention in June.

CCC Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees

The Central Community College Athletic Hall of Fame added three individuals and one team during induction ceremonies in February. The 2023 inductees are:

Jack Gutierrez

Gutierrez joined CCC on July 1, 1980, as the men’s basketball and golf coach as well as the financial aid director. In 1992, he accepted the role as athletic director and retained his role as men’s basketball coach. Gutierrez led the Raiders to five national tournament appearances, including a fourth-place finish at the National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II tournament. In 1983, the Raiders were the runners-up in the National Little College Athletic Association championship game. He stepped down as men’s basketball coach following the 2006-07 season with a career mark of 418-386.

The next season, Gutierrez started up and became the head coach of the CCC softball program. Under his direction, the Raiders won Region IX titles in 2010, 2011, 2014 and 2018.

As athletic director, Gutierrez oversaw the addition of men’s and women’s soccer and softball and the return of golf and women’s basketball. During his service, the CCC Athletic Hall of Fame ceremonies were established, and all-star games were implemented. Gutierrez was also instrumental in facilities improvements including the remodel of the Raider Fieldhouse and the addition of the turf soccer and softball complex.

Lindsay Larson

An outfielder on the CCC softball team, Larson had a stellar career in 2013 and 2014. As a freshman, she led the Raiders in stolen bases (35) and slugging percentage (.766). As a sophomore, Larson led CCC in runs (45), hits (48) stolen bases (46) and slugging percentage (.730). Her 81 career stolen bases stood as a CCC record until 2022.

Larson was twice named All-Region 9, All-Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference (NCCAC), Academic All-Region 9, Academic All-NCCAC, and Region 9 All-Tournament Team.

An early childhood education major at CCC Larson sported a 4.0 GPA. She had planned on transferring to Concordia University to earn a bachelor’s degree and play softball but died in a car accident in July 2014. In memory of Larson, funds given to the CCC Foundation are being utilized for book scholarships for CCC softball players.

Larson's parents, Scott (left) and Terri (right), accepted her hall of fame plaque. They are pictured with current CCC softball coach Caitlin Simon (center).

Riley Callan Smith

An outside hitter for the Raiders in 2008 and 2009, Smith was CCC’s first two-time National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-American. As a freshman, she led the Raiders to the NJCAA national volleyball tournament. Smith is a previous CCC volleyball record holder with 1,028 kills.

Smith was named NJCAA Second Team All-American as a freshman and NJCAA First Team All-American as a sophomore. She was twice named All-Region 9, All-NCCAC, Academic All-Region 9 and Academic All-NCCAC. She was also named as the Sertoma Athlete of the Year.

Smith transferred to Morningside College where she played volleyball for two more years. Today, she is a licensed mental health practitioner in Ord and is the head volleyball coach at Ord High School.

1999-2000 Men’s Basketball Team

Under the direction of Jack Gutierrez, the 1999-00 CCC men’s basketball squad posted a record of 21-13 and won the Region 9 and district championships. At the NJCAA Division II National Tournament, the Raiders took fourth place and finished fourth in the final rankings. Team members were Beau Brown, Gayle Carey, Jeron Epting, Jesse Hart, Andy Johnson, Vernon Johnson, Jeff Kopecky, JJ Oberg, Bill Parker, Travis Ratzlaff, TJ Rickert, Ted Standing Soldier, and Justin Vogt. Brian Doke was the student manager and Saul Soltero served as assistant coach.

NJCAA Academic All-Americans

The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) recognized 35 Central Community College student-athletes for academic achievement during 2022-23.

Student-athletes who earned a 4.0 GPA were named NJCAA All-Academic First team, while those who posted a GPA of 3.80-3.99 were named NJCAA All-Academic Second Team. The NJCAA All-Academic Third Team is comprised of student-athletes who finished with a GPA of 3.60-3.79.

The CCC softball team led the way with 10 student-athletes earning NJCAA academic honors followed by volleyball with seven. Men’s soccer and women’s basketball each had five honorees while women’s soccer sported four. Men’s basketball had three and golf had two.

The Raiders had six teams that earned NJCAA Academic Team of the Year honors for posting a combined 3.0 GPA or better. Softball posted a 3.5 GPA while volleyball sported a 3.37 GPA. Women’s soccer posted a 3.28 GPA and golf and men’s soccer each recorded identical GPAs of 3.2. Women’s basketball posted a 3.07 GPA.

The following is a list of each sport and team members’ specific honor:

Golf

Blake Barner, 1^st team and Brett Downing, 3^rd team.

Men’s Basketball

Josh Baker, 1^st team; Ashton LaPointe, 3^rd team; and Derek Merwick, 3^rd team.

Men’s Soccer

Rasmus Berg, 2^nd team; Paul Kelling, 1^st team; Israel Robledo, 3^rd team; Tobias Sereining, 1^st team; and Niklas Thiel, 1^st team.

Softball

Jadalyn Berry, 3^rd team; Kenzie Bonner, 3^rd team; Myah Essman, 3^rd team; Addison Heule, 1^st team; Emma Lees, 1^st team; Kaylee McNeese, 2^nd team; McKinna Moats, 1^st team; Sasha Perrin, 3^rd team; Kailee Pollard, 1^st team; and Caroline Riffer, 1^st team.

Volleyball

Kamryn Chohon, 3^rd team; Abby Elstermeier, 2^nd team; Chelsie Fisher, 1^st team; Jillian Kelly, 3^rd team; Katee Korte, 1^st team; and Josie Richards, 1^st team; and Allison Sander, 2^nd team.

Women’s Basketball

Madisen Jelinek, 1^st team; Alessandra Neujahr, 2^nd team; MaKenna Pelster, 1^st team, Sasha Perrin, 3^rd team; and Alyssa Reardon, 2^nd team.

Women’s Soccer

Natalie Crouse, 3^rd team; Clara Dos Reis, 1^st team; Kaylee Gerber, 2^nd team; and Lilli Reisser, 2^nd team.

CCC Remains Best for Vets

Central Community College is the top choice for veterans among all Nebraska colleges and universities, according to the Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges rankings for 2022.

The list focuses on the efforts of two-year universities and colleges nationwide to support the military community. CCC is in 27th place of all institutions and fourth place among community colleges.

“This is a great honor to be selected and ranked so well against 310 other schools, both locally and nationally, many of which are much larger than CCC,” said Barry Horner, veterans and military services director. “CCC’s efforts to provide the best possible services for our military affiliated students is proven by their success. Our veterans’ program is not successful unless our student veterans are successful in their educational goals.”

CCC’s Veterans and Military Resource Centers (VMRC) in Columbus, Grand Island, Hastings and Kearney help veterans with benefits and academic advising, assistance for disabled vets and mental health resources. A tuition waiver program provides 100-percent tuition for spouses and children of eligible veterans paid by the college, and the Central Community College Foundation provides veteran-specific scholarships.

“We are proud to see the work of our veteran services staff having such a positive impact on student success throughout our 25-county service area,” said CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall. “We have locations open for these adult students to meet in person and remotely. Faculty, staff and administrators are grateful for their service and welcome the opportunity to help these students in their next career field.”

CCC Remains Military Friendly

Central Community College has achieved a top 10 gold level ranking for small colleges, earning it the 2023-24 Military Friendly School designation. Specifically, CCC finished sixth on the list of 95 small colleges nationwide.

“CCC’s military-connected students deserve the credit for this award,” said Barry Horner, CCC director of veterans and military services. “They attended classes, did the homework, took the tests and walked the stage in graduation regalia. The Veterans and Military Resource Center (VMRC) staff had the easy part, supporting the students on their journeys. Their success is what made CCC successful.”

Institutions earning the Military Friendly School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2023-24 survey with 665 earning special awards for going above the standard.

Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey scores with the assessment of the institution’s ability to meet thresholds for student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence (degree advancement or transfer) and loan default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.

 CCC’s VMRCs provide support to active duty, reservist and National Guard members; veterans; and their family members. In addition to military education benefits, the VMRC assists with transferring military credit; scholarships; career planning; registration and direct access to state and national veterans; and military benefits, resources and programs.

SVA Donations

A pair of tri-cities businesses made generous donations to CCC’s Student Veterans Association (SVA).

Mark Omtvedt (right), project manager for Christenson Cleaning & Restoration, presents a $500 donation. The donation is part of an effort to support local veterans called Christenson Cares. Elijah Swantkoski (center), 2021-22 SVA president accepted the check along with Barry Horner (left), CCC director of veterans and military services. The funds will provide seed money for SVA fundraising projects and SVA-sponsored campus events.

Flatwater Smokers, a veteran owned and operated smoked meats food truck based in Kearney, hosted a luncheon at the Kearney Center. Owner Owen Krueger (pictured left) made a generous donation of $250 to the combined Grand Island and Kearney chapter of the SVA. Pictured with Krueger (l-r) is U.S. Navy veteran Morgan Burr, who also served as an SVA work study at the Kearney Center Veterans and Military Resource Center; U.S. Air Force veteran Shawn Patsios, CCC veterans and military services coordinator; and U.S. Army veteran Tim Harper.

Veterans Day

Veterans Day ceremonies were held at the Columbus Campus (upper left), the Grand Island Campus (upper right), the Hastings Campus (lower left) and the Kearney Center (lower right).

Change at the Top

2021-22 marked a change in leadership for the Central Community College Foundation as former executive director Dean Moors announced his retirement. Traci Skalberg, the former head of the Grand Island Public Schools (GIPS) Foundation, was selected to succeed Moors.

Skalberg led the GIPS Founation for nearly two decades and in that time, she increased the annual average revenue from $200,000 to $3.5 million. She also raised, managed and granted $25 million over her last five years at the GIPS Foundation. Skalberg also developed a nationally renowned employee giving program with 90-percent participation.

A 1994 CCC-Columbus academic transfer graduate, Skalberg went on to earn a bachelor of arts degree in Spanish and international studies from Doane University in 1997, graduating cum laude. She is also a certified education foundation leader and holds a certificate in fundraising management.

Moors led the CCC Foundation for 14 years and in that time, he oversaw major gift campaigns for the new Kearney Center, the Hamilton Building renovation at CCC-Hastings and the Columbus Community Hospital Center for Science and Technology at CCC-Columbus. Moors also helped the CCC Foundation’s growth in alumni efforts, the annual CCC employee giving campaign and planned giving.

Moors has agreed to stay with the CCC Foundation until 2024 on a part-time basis. He will lead Generations of Impact a $25 million campaign to fund the foundation’s operating expenses so that every dollar raised goes to scholarships and program support.

Inclusive Park Named for CCC Board Member

The Grand Island City Council approved the naming of a $1.5 million multi-generational inclusive playground to be constructed at Ryder Park. Thanks to the generosity of Grand Island business owners Tom and Sue Pirnie (pictured), the 27,000-square-foot facility will be known as the “Pirnie Inclusive Playground.” The project was conceptualized by occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program students at Central Community College-Grand Island and a fundraising campaign is being led by a group of community members.

“We are excited to support a project created by CCC students for children of all abilities within Grand Island,” said Tom Pirnie, a member of the CCC Board of Governors since 1994. “Opportunities for area youth and families are vital for the betterment of the community.”

Owners of Grand Island Express and GIX Logistics, the Pirnie family is well known as strong supporters of many community efforts.

“We truly appreciate Tom and Sue Pirnie and others who have pledged their support of this project,” said Cheri Beda, CCC alumni director and community group co-chair. “We are also proud of the OTA students, whose passion drove the inclusive design and led to approval from community leaders and the Grand Island City Council. We are confident that the community will step up to support this inclusive playground and make it a reality for Grand Island.”

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than three million children under the age of 18 have some type of disability (physical, auditory, visual, cognitive or ambulatory), meaning nearly one out of every 25 children face some challenge as they learn, play, and interact with others.

The CCC Foundation is overseeing the fundraising for the Pirnie Inclusive Playground. If you would like to learn more about the park and how to make a donation, please click here.

CCC Foundation Hall of Fame Inductees

The Central Community College Foundation Hall of Fame welcomed five new members in 2021.

Rhonda Pauley (left), Gale and Paula Beirow (center), and Beth and Terry Millard (right) were recognized for demonstrating exceptional support for Central Community College and/or the CCC Foundation and their missions over the years. Gale Beirow has been a member of the CCC Foundation Board of Directors since 1999, Terry Millard since 2010 and Pauley since 2011.

2023 Board of Governors Officers

ACCT Recognizes Keller

CCC Board of Governors member Diane Keller was named as the recipient of 2022 Western Region Trustee Leadership Award by the Association of Community Colleges Trustees (ACCT). The award recognizes community college leaders for meeting the needs of their communities. She received the award during the 53^rd annual ACCT Leadership Congress in New York City.

Keller is an active proponent of CCC’s lead role in multiple statewide grants and initiatives including the Nebraska Math Readiness Project, National Science Foundation mechatronics grants, U.S. Department of Labor transportation grants, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services health occupations grants, and U.S. Department of Education veterans services grants. Each endeavor required CCC to work with local industry, students, community college peers and area high schools.

She has also supported initiatives in entrepreneurship, precision agriculture and student support services including TRIO, federal and state aid to students, the American Association of Community College’s (AACC) Equity Transfer Initiative and AACC’s Metallica Scholars Initiative.

Keller has been a member of the CCC Board of Governors since 2000 and served in numerous leadership positions, including two terms as chair.

CCC Board Adds New Members

Dan Quick of Grand Island and Jason Buss of Central City were welcomed as new members of the CCC Board of Governors in 2023. Quick was elected in November 2022 to represent District 4. He replaced Austin Miller, who decided not to run for reelection. Buss was approved by the CCC Board of Governors at its June meeting to fill the remainder of the term previously held by District 1 representative Michelle Broekemier, who relocated outside the district.

Quick, who attended CCC for one year as a welding student, worked at the Grand Island Utilities Department’s Platte Generating Station until retiring in 2017 after being elected to the Nebraska Unicameral. He served as a state senator through 2020.

He is a member of the Heartland United Way Board of Directors and the Blessed Sacrament Parish Council. He previously served as president and business manager of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1597 and president of the Central Nebraska Central Labor Council and the Nebraska State Utility Workers.

His honors include being named to the 2017, 2018 and 2019 Holland Children’s Movement Honor Roll and receiving the 2020 Farmer’s Union’s President’s Award, 2021 Tobacco Education Advocacy Midlands’ Advocate of the Year Award and 2021 Dan Lutz Passenger Rail Advocacy Award.

Buss is the human resources manager and global environmental health and safety leader for Camaco in Columbus. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the field.

He has strong ties to CCC. His parents, Steve and Vicki Buss, both worked for CCC-Hastings for most of their careers and are now retired.

He took auto body, AutoCAD and college algebra classes at the Hastings Campus. He later attended classes in Microsoft Excel, leadership, welding and robotic welding at the Columbus Campus.

Buss has served on various CCC advisory boards and most recently participated in the welding advisory meeting and on the mechatronics education curriculum’s business-industry leadership team. As the former human resources deputy director for the Department of Health and Human Services, he used CCC-Kearney for large employee focus groups.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Missouri Western State University.

Waddle Leads CCC-Hastings

Dr. Chris Waddle was appointed to lead the Hastings Campus. He had previously served as CCC's vice president of human resources for 11 years. Waddle was hired as a history/political science instructor in 2003 and taught at the Hastings Campus for eight years.

Prior to joining CCC, Waddle was an owner/partner of Ericson-based Waddle Enterprises LLC from 2003 to 2009. He oversaw management of the busing contract for Wheeler Central Public Schools. From 1995 to 2003, Waddle was a customer service manager for Walmart stores in Lincoln.

A native of Sterling, Waddle earned an associate of arts degree from Southeast Community College in 1998 followed by a bachelor of science degree from Peru State College two years later. In 2002, he graduated with a Juris Doctorate from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and was admitted to the Nebraska Bar. Active in the community, Waddle recently concluded an 11-year membership on the Giltner Board of Education. He served on the Nebraska State Education Board of Directors from 2009 to 2012 and the Nebraska Association of School Boards legislative committee from 2017 to 2022.

Budget Report

The college operating budget for the 2021-22 fiscal year was $59,985,471. Funding sources were:

• State aid in support of the operating budget increased from $10,144,145 in 2020-21 to $10,693,566 in 2021-22, which provided 17.83 percent of the total.
• Local property tax for 2021-22 contributed $37,660,326 to the operating budget, compared with $37,313,271 in 2020-21, which provided 62.78 percent of the total.
• Tuition provided $9,631,577 in 2021-22, which amounted to 16.06 percent of the total.

Operating budget breakdown:

• 60.26 percent went toward instruction and academic support.
• 20.20 percent went to institutional support.
• 9.32 percent went to physical plant support.
• 8.41 percent went to student services.
• 1.81 percent went to student aid.

The capital improvement budget for 2021-22 was $10,502,422 and the budget for the hazardous materials/handicapped fund was $2,091,088.

CCC Total Economic Impact Near $450 Million

Central Community College added $442.1 million in income to its 25-county service area’s economy. That’s according to an economic impact analysis of fiscal year (FY) 2020-21, which found that the $442.1 million is approximately equal to 2.3 percent of the region’s total gross regional product.

CCC’s impact supported 6,247 jobs and the activities of CCC and its students support one out of every 33 jobs in the service area. Some of the jobs supported (by industry) include 797 in health care and social assistance, 620 in retail trade, 600 in manufacturing, 495 in construction and 620 in other services.

The study also looked at the return-on-investment for taxpayers, students and society.

The total investment made by CCC’s over 17,000 credit and non-credit students in 2020-21 in out-of-pocket expenses and forgone time and money amounted to a present value of $39.7 million. However, for each dollar students invested in their CCC education, they are estimated to receive a cumulative value of $5.30 in higher future earnings.

The total benefit to society is $704.7 million or $5.60 for each dollar invested. The societal benefit is comprised of additional student income, added income from college activities, added business income and social savings related to improved health, less crime and state income assistance.

CCC’s $49 million payroll for 777 full-time and part-time employees that year was spent primarily in the service area for mortgage and rent, utilities, groceries, transportation and other household expenses. CCC’s alumni also had a tremendous impact. The increased earnings of CCC alums and the businesses they work for added $379 million in income.

The total taxpayer benefits amounted to $60.1 million, $55.3 million of which came from state and local government tax collections. The remaining dollars came from public sector savings in the form of savings generated by the improved lifestyles of CCC students and corresponding reduced need for government assistance.

The economic impact analysis was conducted by EMSI Burning Glass, a private labor market data firm serving clients in the U.S. the U.K. and Canada.