April 8, 2014ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

LITTLETON, CO

Pr e s e n t e d b y S t a t e S t u d e n t A d v i s o r y C o u n c i l ( S S AC )

a n dC o l o r a d o C o m m u n i t y C o l l e g e S y s t e m

RISING STARR e c o g n i t i o n C e r e m o n y& H o n o r a r y L u n c h e o n

WELCOME

Shelton HowardChair, State Student Advisory Council (SSAC)

LUNCH

OPENING REMARKS

Dr. Nancy J. McCallinPresident, Colorado Community College System

PRESENTAT ION OF R IS ING STAR AWARDS

Colorado Community College Presidents

ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGEDr. Diana Doyle, President

COLORADO NORTHWESTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGEMr. Russell George, President

COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF AURORADr. Betsy Oudenhoven

COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF DENVERDr. Everette Freeman

FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGEMr. Andy Dorsey, President

LAMAR COMMUNITY COLLEGEMr. John Marrin, President

MORGAN COMMUNITY COLLEGEDr. Kerry Hart, President

NORTHEASTERN JUNIOR COLLEGEMr. Jay Lee, President

OTERO JUNIOR COLLEGEMr. Jim Rizzuto, President

SCH E DU L E OF E V E N T S

PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGEDr. Lance Bolton, President

PUEBLO COMMUNITY COLLEGEMs. Patty Erjavec, President

RED ROCKS COMMUNITY COLLEGEDr. Michele Haney, President

TRINIDAD STATE JUNIOR COLLEGEDr. Carmen Simone

PRESENTAT ION OF PRES IDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD

Dr. Nancy J. McCallinPresident, Colorado Community College System

PRESENTAT ION OF ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR AWARD

Dr. Jerry MiglerVice President, Academic Affairs/ProvostColorado Community College System

THANK YOU AND CLOS ING REMARKS

Taryn FlackVice Chair, State Student Advisory Council (SSAC)

All award winners and award presenters, please stay forphotographs immediately following the end of the program.

Slide show created by Mark Squire, Red Rocks Community CollegeA special thank you to the Rising Star Luncheon Planning Committee

ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

HEID I SPURGEON is working on her Associate of Arts Degree at Arapahoe Community College. In addition to being an excellent student, she is the current Secretary of Associated Student Government and the Vice

President of Communication for Phi Theta Kappa (PTK). She is also one of the two ACC PTK members named to the 2014

PTK All-Colorado Academic Team. Heidi volunteers with a mentorship program for young girls in Denver and is active in her church. When not in the classroom or volunteering her time, Heidi is working to become fluent in Spanish and loves to play the harp, piano and guitar. Heidi plans to

transfer to the University of Missouri–St. Louis.

EUGENE SANDERS , who is working on his Associate of Arts degree at Arapahoe Community College, is known for his upbeat and positive attitude. He is currently the Student Government Treasurer, founder and President of the Knitting Club, Equality Club President, and is involved in the President’s Student Advisory Council. His peers and instructors say he has a sparkling wit and possesses insatiable curiosity about everything. As a work study employee, he is a problem solver and works with students to sort out their issues by offering practical solutions. He is a dedicated scholar, student leader, and citizen. He exhibits wisdom, kindness and generosity in the community, especially when working with The United Way of America. He plans to transfer to Metropolitan State University of Denver and pursue a degree in some aspect of Human Services.

COLORADO NORTHWESTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE

JESSE ANDERSON is working on his Associate of Applied Science in Equine Training at Colorado Northwestern Community College Rangely

Campus. He is actively involved on campus as the Vice President of Student Government, a Resident Assistant, and a member of the

Rodeo Team, Phi Theta Kappa and the Equine Club. Jesse has received awards for his leadership as a Resident Assistant and was selected as an All American Academic Athlete for Rodeo. In his spare time, Jesse enjoys hunting, fishing and the outdoors. After completing his degree at CNCC, Jesse would like to transfer to a four-year university and has

aspirations of one day owning an equine business.

DIANA RANSBERGER is an enthusiastic learner and compassionate woman working on her Associate of Science degree at Colorado Northwestern Community College’s Craig Campus. There, she is the Associated Student Government President and holds an elected position as part of Phi Theta Kappa. She is also a work study employee for

both the biology and chemistry departments and participates in CNCC’s “Taste of Education”, in which chemistry

demonstrations are done on campus and at local area high schools. When not in the classroom or doing lab work, Diana values spending time with her three kids and supportive husband. She is known for her great cooking skills, including authentic Mexican delights and chocolate truffles. Eventually, Diana would like to transfer to a four-year college, and she would like to get a doctorate in Physical Therapy.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF AURORA

LAYNIE V I L LAGOMEZ is working on her Associate of Science in Psychology at Community College of Aurora. She is also the President of CCA’s chapter of the League for United Latin American Citizens, the Vice President of Student Government, the Vice President of the Black Student Alliance, and part of the TRiO program. Additionally, she is the lead event programmer for CCA’s Student Life. Off campus, Laynie enjoys volunteering at her local Goodwill store and she sponsors a child in Africa. She is known for her optimism, infectious positivity, and leadership. Laynie plans to transfer to the University of Colorado at Denver.

STEV I MORELAND is a spirited and intelligent student working on her Associate of Arts degree at Community College of

Aurora. She is a consultant for the Society for the Study of Modern Visual Culture, the Secretary for the Film Fans Club and served as the State Student Advisory Council Representative on the State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education. Stevi is also a work study

employee serving CCA as a librarian and tutor. Classmates and faculty members have described Stevi as inspirational and

resilient. Stevi plans to continue her education at University of Colorado at Denver.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF DENVER

AL IC IA LE IGH is an outstanding student working on her Associate of Applied Science degree in Dental Hygiene at the Community College of Denver. In addition to serving as her class representative and her multiple community service accomplishments, Alicia has been actively involved with the state legislature while CCD pursued the approval of a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree. She has been instrumental in the college’s success because she is confident, articulate, and poised under pressure when giving testimony. Alicia is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa and Psi Beta and the President of the Student Chapter of American Dental Hygienists’ Association at CCD. When not on campus, she is active in the community as a volunteer for numerous events and organizations. Alicia plans to continue her education and obtain a bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene.

DREW TURLEY is working on his Associate of Science degree at the Community College of Denver. He is known as a perfectionist with a great work ethic. On campus, Drew is a CCD Student Ambassador Orientation Leader, a Supplemental Student Instructor for math and science, Treasurer of the Student Ambassador Student Organization,

a member of Phi Theta Kappa, and the STEM Club. Off campus, Drew is also known for his volunteerism, ranging from

sustainable living activities to dance and performing. In his “free” time, Drew models, dances, and acts professionally. Drew plans to complete his Associate of Science degree at CCD and then to transfer to a four-year college where he plans to study architecture or urban planning. CCD is thankful to have Drew as part of its campus community.

FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOULDER CAMPUS

DE ISY DELUNA is working on an Associate of Arts degree with a Designation in Business-Accounting and Marketing at Front Range Community College’s Boulder Campus. On campus, she is a Student Government Association Legislative Representative, National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) member, Latino Club President, Phi Theta Kappa member and a participant in the Latino Excellence, Achievement, and Development Series (LEADS).

She won the Outstanding New Student award and FRCC Longmont Legacy Foundation Scholarship in 2013. Deisy works in the Outreach and Enrollment department and volunteers in the Longmont community. In her free time, she likes to read and spend time with her family and friends. Deisy is set to graduate this fall and plans transfer to the University of Colorado at Boulder.

FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE LARIMER CAMPUS

MIKENNA RASE is an active and highly motivated student at Front Range Community College’s Larimer Campus, where

she is working on her Associate of Arts, Business Designation degree. While at the Larimer campus, Mikenna has been involved in the Pathways Leadership Program and Phi Theta Kappa. She also received the Outstanding New Student Award in 2013. Off campus, she volunteers at

the Restoration Community Church; was a summer camp volunteer; and has done a number of mission trips to Indian

Reservations and the Czech Republic, where she taught English. After an anticipated graduation this summer, Mikenna will attend the highly selective Savannah College of Art and Design.

FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE WESTMINSTER CAMPUS

KATHY BELL IS is working on her Associate of Arts degree at Front Range Community College’s Westminster Campus. On campus, Kathy is Editor of the Front Page Newspaper, a New Student Orientation Leader, and Student Leader for the Altitude Leadership Retreat planning committee, care-team member for the construction project, and a National Society of Leadership and Success member. Kathy also assists at the Welcome Center on campus and volunteers her time at local dog shelters. One faculty member commented, “Kathy is one of the most reliable, friendly, and outstanding students I have come in contact with during my time at FRCC.” Kathy plans to continue her education, wants to grow her career as a writer and journalist, and pursue a bachelor’s degree. However, she will first welcome a baby into the world this May.

LAMAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE

MIKAILA MART INEZ is a full-time student-athlete at Lamar Community College, working on her Associate of Arts degree.

She strives to balance her time in the classroom with her role as a middle hitter on the LCC Women’s Volleyball Team, as well as with other school and community activities. She is the Vice President of the Student Government Association and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She has also been recruited by

several Division I schools to play volleyball. When not in the classroom or on the volleyball court, Mikaila enjoys spending time

with her family, friends and teammates. While Mikaila has not yet selected which school she will be attending in the fall of 2014, she is looking forward to what the future holds.

BRENNA CASH is a great asset to Lamar Community College and the local community. She is a full-time student, a setter and defensive specialist on the LCC Volleyball Team, a Senator for the Student Government Association, and a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She was also selected a Presidential Scholar for 2013-14. In her free time, Brenna volunteers her time at the Lamar Animal Sanctuary and Lamar Toys for Tots Distribution Center. She also keeps busy as a work study employee at the LCC Bookstore. Brenna intends to attend Colorado State University-Pueblo to pursue a bachelor’s degree, majoring in Psychology.

MORGAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE

ANNISHIA ESKEW has a strong work ethic, which has proven valuable as she progresses through nursing school at Morgan Community College. She has been a true leader as part of the Student Nurse Association, holding roles as Vice President, President and Advisory Board member. Last year, Annishia attended the Student Nurse Association National

Conference as a delegate. Annishia has been instrumental in re-building the Student Nurse Association on MCC’s campus.

Annishia is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa and volunteers with “Save the Children” on campus. When not on campus, she loves spending time with her family, camping and teaching Bible class at the Church of Christ. Annishia plans to work towards her bachelor’s degree in Nursing and subsequently her master’s degree in Nursing.

PAIGE BRUNTZ is working on her Associate of Science degree at Morgan Community College. She is the President of

MCC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, Secretary of the Student Government Association and Vice President of the Science Club. Paige is also active on campus as a work study employee for Student Support and volunteers for Operation:

Saving Our Communities, Protect Our Children. Paige is an exceptional role model to the student body and MCC is grateful

to have her as part of their campus. In her free time, Paige enjoys painting, drawing and sculpting. Paige plans to continue her education at the University of Northern Colorado.

NORTHEASTERN JUNIOR COLLEGE

BROOKE MILLER is a happy, upbeat young woman and great contributor to the Northeastern Junior College campus and community. She is an NJC Student Senator, NJC Student Ambassador, and the Aggies Club Secretary. Off campus, Brooke has been active volunteering her time for the High-Plains Rotary Club, the 9News Health Fair, the Northern Colorado Honor Flight as a Guardian, and the Colorado/Wyoming/Nebraska Stock Horse Association. She is proud of her service as a Colorado State Future Farmers of America officer. Brooke was raised on 80 acres of dry grassland and loves to help people and talk about agriculture. After her time at NJC, Brooke plans to transfer to Colorado State University to complete her degree in Agriculture Education.

DENZEL STEWART is thriving as he works on his Associate of Science degree at Northeastern Junior College. He is also a Resident Assistant in Williams Hall, a Student Government Representative, a Community Assistant at Poole Hall, an Intramural sports Coach and Captain and part

of the Peer Helper Club. He recently won a Resident Life award for Best Retention from fall to spring for his hard work as a Resident

Assistant. He is proud to be a first generation college student. Denzel loves to play basketball and all other sports, despite the fact that he has a titanium spine. After completing his associate’s degree at NJC, Denzel plans to continue his education at either Colorado State University or the

Colorado School of Mines.

OTERO JUNIOR COLLEGE

NATALYA SHAROVATOVA is from Uzbekistan and attending Otero Junior College as part of the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD). At OJC, Natalya is proud to be part of the President’s Leadership Program and the International Relations Organization. As part of these programs, she has volunteered at numerous fundraising and charity events and has also been able to share her culture, language and customs with others on campus and in the community. After returning home, Natalya plans to come back to the United States to work on her bachelor’s degree at a four-year college. She is hoping to attend Colorado State University–Pueblo or the University of Denver.

HALEY MART INEZ is a student-athelete working on her Associate of Arts degree at Otero Junior College (OJC). When Haley isn’t in the classroom or

on the basketball court as part of OJC’s Women’s Basketball Team, she is also active in the Wunsch Hall Club and is an officer elect for

OJC’s 2014-15 Associated Student Government. She is proud to have been selected as “Athlete of the Week” earlier this year for her hard work and contributions to the basketball team. She has also volunteered to help with a local youth basketball team that consists of first through third graders.

Haley plans to transfer to a four-year college after she finishes at Otero, but she has not yet decided which school she would

like to attend.

PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE

CARLENE GRAY is working on her associate degree in Psychology and Communication at Pikes Peak Community College. Carlene is the Phi Theta Kappa President at PPCC and a member of the Multicultural Student Union. Off campus, Carlene is also active in the classroom as a volunteer at Soaring Eagles Elementary School, at the El Pomar and PPCC College Readiness and Success Program and is a Court Appointed Special Advocate. When not volunteering or working on her academics, Carlene is a poet and writer and is passionate about sports. Carlene hopes to attend the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and has aspirations of becoming an entrepreneur after graduation.

WILL I E L INSON is working on his Associate of Arts degree in History at Pikes Peak Community College. He is a Senator in Student Government, member of Phi Theta Kappa and member of the Sustainability Club. Willie is also in the Army Reserve, where he is a Combat Medic. Off campus, Willie volunteers for the American Red Cross at Evans Army Community Hospital and is a nationally registered Emergency Medical Technician. According to his nominator, “Willie is always willing to help and he reaches out to others to engage them.” Willie aspires to continue his education at the University of Denver to study International Relations.

PUEBLO COMMUNITY COLLEGE

HEATHER STEVENS is a student at Pueblo Community College working on her Associate Degree in Business Management.

She is a Student Ambassador, belongs to the National Honor Society, and Colorado Springs Muzzle Loader Association. Heather’s nominator stated “Heather is the epitome of the ‘PCC Promise!’ She has impressive leadership skills,

communicates in a clear, concise manner that is relatable, relevant and thorough plus she is always upbeat and positive.”

When Heather is not on campus, her hobbies include stock and drag car racing, hunting, travelling to car shows, church activities,

and spending time with family. Heather plans to continue in the summer through the Adam’s State University distance learning program to earn her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Health Care Administration.

KRIST INA PETERSEN is working on her Associate Degree in Health Information Technology at Pueblo Community College. She is the Vice President of PCC’s Associated Student Government, a leader and organizer for PCC’s Panther Student Pantry, a Student Activity Board member, a member of the New Student Orientation Student Leadership Team, and a Phi Theta Kappa member. She is known around campus as an outstanding student, leader, and person, plus she is a strong advocate for students who are interested in college, but who are lacking confidence. Kristina loves reading, roller skating and spending time with her husband, five children and grandchild. After graduating from PCC, Kristina looks forward to becoming a professional in the health field.

RED ROCKS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

KRYSTAL TUBBS is a well-rounded student who is working on her Associate of Arts degree in Computer Science at Red Rocks

Community College. Not only is she a “technology wiz kid,” but she is also artistic and creative. In addition to her taxing studies, she works as a social media specialist in RRCC’s marketing department, leads student clubs, and volunteers. Krystal is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, events chair of the

National Society of Leadership and Success, and a member of RRCC’s video game club. She has conducted fundraisers for

Colorado Flood Relief, Hurricane Sandy Relief, the Red Cross, and Children’s Hospital. In addition, she volunteers at Denver Comic Con as the Assistant to the Director of Communications. An amateur photographer, blogger, Whovian and Trekkie, Krystal likes to read science fiction and fantasy, and also enjoys fishing with her family. Upon graduation this spring, Krystal plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree at either CU or CSU. She will be the first of her siblings and parents to earn a college degree.

ANTHONY “TONY” WILSON is a perfect example of leadership at Red Rocks Community College (RRCC). He is president of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Vice President of RRCC Student Government, and a student representative on the Fitness Center and Recreation Center Steering Coordinator search committees. In addition, he was an officer with and founding member of RRCC’s Political Science Club and works in RRCC’s Student Life Department. When not at Red Rocks, Tony volunteers as a referee for high school basketball. Although Tony is known for his dry sense of humor, he has a huge heart. He plans to attend the University of Colorado to pursue a bachelor’s degree after graduation.

TRINIDAD STATE JUNIOR COLLEGE

MARCOS TRUJ I L LO is an exceptional student at Trinidad State Junior College’s Valley Campus. He has outstanding interpersonal skills

among his peers, which has led to his success as President of the Student Government Association at TSJC. He is also an active member of both the Phi Beta Lambda and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Societies. He is able to successfully meet students where they are at and advocate for their needs on both the collective and individual level. Marcos has grown

tremendously into an outstanding student leader; one who listens first, is open to feedback, makes changes where needed,

and keeps the needs of his team above his personal agenda. Marcos plans to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering.

T I FFANY DAVIES is truly an outstanding student at Trinidad State Junior College’s Valley Campus, working on her Associate of Nursing degree. Tiffany carries a positive outlook, sense of humor, and a smile which is well known among her peers, faculty, and staff. This positive attitude, along with her hard work and dedication, aids in her success in the many roles she holds at TSJC: Nursing program student; Student Government Association Senator at Large; and Future Nurses of America President. She is consistently successful even when challenges arise. Tiffany is highly respected by all who have the privilege to work with her. After Tiffany graduates this spring, she is looking to transfer to Grand Canyon University.

ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR

JENNIFER CARTERTrinidad State Junior College, Valley Campus

Jennifer, who is known as Jeni by the college community, serves as the Student Life Coordinator at Trinidad State Junior College (TSJC). She was nominated by Marcos Trujillo and Jason Delman of TSJC’s Associated Student Government for this award. In addition to her role as Student Life Coordinator, Jeni also serves as Student Government Advisor, is on

the Higher Learning Commission Committee, and is a Behavior Intervention Team member and Chair

and creator of “Student Achievement Awards” at the college.

“Jeni has exuded dedication not only to the advocacy of her students, but also to her extraordinary event planning skills. During her time at Trinidad State Junior College, Ms.

Carter has created a student community that reflects inclusiveness and spreads the awareness

of the importance of recognizing a multicultural campus. Through her daily support, whether it is

academic or social, it has become apparent that she is a true educator and someone that we are very proud to have as a mentor.”

Jeni earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management and her Master’s degree in Counseling at Adams State University. When she is not on campus, Jeni can be found seeking out the latest releases in music, experimenting in the kitchen, playing outside with her dog, and spending time with her family.

PRESIDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD

DR. D IANA M. DOYLE Arapahoe Community College

Dr. Diana Doyle was nominated to be President of the Year by the Arapahoe Community College Student Government for her dedication and leadership toward advancing student interests. Dr. Doyle has a strong presence throughout the college and attends student activities regularly. In 2011, Dr. Doyle created the President’s Student Advisory Council to meet monthly with students to learn of their concerns and get their feedback on projects and initiatives. Students recognize that Dr. Doyle is a resource to them and that she has an open door policy to share ideas and make Arapahoe Community College the best it can be. Each semester, Dr. Doyle is the first to volunteer to work the Student Affairs greeter table to welcome and direct students. She also frequents student activities on all three campuses at events like Pizza with the President, Student Government meetings, Phi Theta Kappa recognition, and campus BBQs. Dr. Doyle is also an avid volunteer in the local community and an active member of Rotary International.

Dr. Doyle has more than 36 years of professional experience in higher education administration. Dr. Doyle holds bachelor and master degrees from Illinois State University and earned her Ph.D. in Public Administration from the University of Colorado at Denver.

S TAT E S T U D E N T A D V I S O RY C O U N C I L

The purpose of the State Student Advisory Council (SSAC) is to serve as an advisory body to the Colorado State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education (SBCCOE). The SSAC’s elected Vice-Chair has a non-voting seat on the SBCCOE and acts as a liaison between the student bodies of member colleges and the state board. Membership is open to the 13 Colorado Community Colleges, and members of the SSAC are

elected by a vote of their respective student bodies and serve for a term of one year. SSAC meets on a regular basis and serves as an advocacy

group for all state community college students.

S TAT E B O A R D F O R C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E S & O C C U PAT I O N A L E D U C AT I O N

Dr. John Trefny, ChairMr. Rich Martinez, Vice Chair

Ms. Maury DobbieMr. Jim Johnson

Ms. Bernadette MarquezDr. Russell MeyerMs. Theresa Peña

Mr. Ken WeilMs. Jean White

Ms. Taryn Flack , SSAC RepresentativeMr. Robert Henderson, SFAC Representative