MCC Daily Tribune

TCC: Last Round of Kudos

Hello everyone,

I hope you are having a refreshing summer break and getting ready for an exciting academic semester. This past semester, we received a large number of kudos for the semiannual Kudos of the Teaching and Creativity Center. Once again, thank you for your participation and support. I wanted to kick off August by celebrating the last round of kudos from colleagues to colleagues and students to MCC faculty and staff. Please join me in celebrating the success of our colleagues as we all get ready for the next academic semester.

Colleagues to Colleagues

Alex Campanis (Controller’s Grants Accounting):

Since Alex has joined Grants Accounting, he has creating guidelines to assist the Grant Directors and staff. Alex worked with Dawn V., in Computing and I.T. to upload these guidelines to the MCC Online Forms, under Controller's. Here are a few of the guidelines which were uploaded; Grant Student Assistance Guide & Grants Accounting Operating Procedures Guide.

Annie (MaryAnn) Vershay (Health and Physical Education):

It is a pleasure working with Annie. Annie's sunny disposition makes the working day that much better. She always tries to be as helpful as possible. Even if she doesn't know the answer, she doesn't pass the buck.

Casey Bianchi (Dental Studies):

Casey Bianchi has taken on the role of second-year clinical coordinator effortlessly in the short time she has been teaching at MCC. She is professional and student-centered. Kudos to another year of professional growth and student success in dental hygiene.

Chrisann Fennessey (Nursing):

Chrisann has gone above and beyond in the development of new content and activities for NUR 214 this semester. She has showed truly what is means to be part of a teaching team. She deserves extra recognition for all of her hard work. It is truly appreciated!

Christina Lee (Global Education and International Services):

Christina represented MCC in the Rochester community this year. She was nominated for an Athena Award by the Greater Rochester Chamber of commerce as well as presented with two proclamations from Senator Jeremy Cooney and the Town of Brighton for her community service as Vice President of Brighton's Board of Education. Dr. Lee also earned her EdD this year from the University of Rochester, which is such a monumental accomplishment given her intense workload from serving the College and the community. On campus, she is always surrounded by students who gravitate towards her calm and nurturing presence. She truly makes MCC a brighter place to be.

Colleen Caruana (Nursing):

I want to give kudos to my colleague; Colleen Carauna. Colleen has a deep-rooted commitment to student success and goes above and beyond to ensure that the program's nursing students receive the support and education they need, preparing them to excel in their dynamic field.

Sherri Kurtz (Dental Studies):

I want to give a shout-out to Sherri Kurtz for another year of amazing student support. Sherri's role as first-year dental hygiene clinical coordinator allows her to help students build their clinical skills and confidence in patient treatment, so they can successfully move into the next level of their dental hygiene education; she does this so well.

From Students to MCC Faculty and Staff

Andrea Wolff (Hospitality):

Andrea is the dept. secretary! She is very knowledgeable about the dept. and the school! She is always willing to help a faculty member or a student! She is very approachable and helpful.

Angela Douglas (Hospitality):

Chef Douglas is understanding and very engaging in class. When I needed to make up a lab for not being able to come to class, she was very understanding of my situation and worked something out with me. She’s also very real and will give you good advice for you to better your skills! I appreciate everything she has taught me this semester and she deserves to get recognized!

Athesia Benjamin (VaPA):

She is just an amazing woman and advisor. She has influenced me to want to work on my art and think about the world in a different way. I just want her to be recognized as such

Brittany Granville (Educational Opportunity Program):

Omg, Ms. Granville, where do I start. She is just absolutely amazing; I can't express it enough. Since returning to MCC to continue pursuing my education, she has not only navigated, but reaffirmed her genuine concern and support time and time again. I can 1000% say that I would not be the scholar I am right now, without her guidance. She is simply so kind and supportive and everyone I know that has experience with her, adore her. When I talk with her, I feel seen, heard, and valued as not only a student, but a person. She really is the extra-most bestest and I hope EOP and MCC makes sure she feels as valued and special as she does everyone else. She has been a guiding light through some of my darkest times and i have nothing but appreciation and deep gratitude for her!

Chris Biehler (Business Administration):

Professor Biehler made every class exciting and fun with his energy and enthusiastic lectures in what can be a laborious course at times. Every class was something to look forward to in my busy class schedule. Thanks Biehler!

Coleton Seidl (VaPA):

Professor Seidl has such a deep and layered understanding of film that I heavily envy his knowledge. He always has something to add to the conversation and can easily describe why something would be effective or ineffective in film. He’s taught me a lot about camera techniques, applications of technology, and how to look at things from various perspectives. He’s got a great sense of humor and is also very passionate about what he does, which makes every class he teaches that much more intriguing. I look forward to any class I have with him in the future. Losing him would be losing valuable guidance and knowledge for the students.
Professor Seidl has an uncontainable love for the art of film and it clearly shows in every way he both speaks and teaches about the subject. The experience that he brings to the classroom as a filmmaker himself allows you the student to really see what it is like to work in this business, as well as acquire top knowledge about the technical aspects of the art form. He is an asset to both the program and the school.

Daniel Tyree (AHPS):

He makes class and note taking super enjoyable. He is also kind and understanding when it comes to needing more time with assignments. Overall, probably my favorite teacher I’ve had at MCC since starting.

Devorce Tracy (Student Support Services):

She has always helped me with everything and she takes her time to explain things to me. She is absolutely the best advisor I have had and she made me feel comfortable to ask for help.

Donald Cater (Math):

He really connects with his students and teaches us in a way that is easy to understand.

Franzie Weldgen (VaPA):

Professor Franzie is an absolute pleasure to have as a mentor. He is the perfect mix of laid back and professional, He knows how to push his students but not destroy them. I have really enjoyed having you these past two years, Truly a gift to study under you!

Gordan Dutter (AHPS):

Very understanding. He gives so many chances to make up work or earn extra points, it's wonderful for when you're struggling to understand certain topics or are falling behind due to work or personal reasons. He gives us every chance possible to make sure we succeed and pass his classes.

Gary Rainford (English and Philosophy):

Professor Rainford is a great English teacher. He goes out his way to make sure when we leave his class and move on to our next course that we have the foundation we need. He is very down to earth and also pretty funny always starting his class with a good old dad joke. Which sometimes aren’t really funny but I laugh anyways haha. It will be sad to leave his class but I truly recommend anyone in his class.

Heather Williams (English and Philosophy):

She was overly kind and helpful. She was such a fun professor and went out of her way to make sure I was okay when I had a personal issue going on plus any time before and after that. She was very leniant and understanding about assignments and just in general. If I could have her as a professor again, I'd have no hesitation to accept! :)

Ilene Benz (VaPA):

Ilene Benz is a very personable professor. She is always trying to provide new and helpful tips for her students on how they can improve. She can be critical, but it’s only to reinforce her students to work harder. She’s kind and welcoming, I had public speaking with her and she definitely put my mind at ease. I’m a very anxious and somewhat shy person, and she made it a lot easier to get up on that stage. She can relate to her students and provide them understanding. I’ve encouraged many people to try and get into her class, to see her go would be a real shame.

Jean McDonough (English and Philosophy):

I just want to say thank you for helping me become more confident in my writing as a college student. You have been amazing English professor this semester for me!

Jim Downer (VaPA):

Jim Downer is the only professor I've ever had that teaches students in the way that they want to learn. His classes are very low stress, which has a high return on student involvement and interest in the class. Personally, it motivated me to work harder on class and produce my best work possible. I wish every class could be taught by Downer, or at least adopt the "to hell with Jim Downer" clause. 11/10 professor

Jim McCusker (English and Philosophy):

He keeps up the morale of the class with his enthusiasm and positive attitude.

John Treahy (Human Services):

Professor Treahy shared his lifelong work experience in the Human Services field. He is highly expertise in what he does and always open to learning to be able to help others.

Jordan Rapp (Advising):

The best advisor - manager - helper. Really thoughtful and respective

Karleen Hollander (Nursing):

You do a phenomenal job making sure our class is prepared for the exams and I love that you care so much about helping us become great nurses!

Kelly Nagle (Law and Criminal Justice):

Professor Nagle is an amazing person and professor. She is very understanding and helpful and I look forward to classes with her each semester.

Kristen Killion (Health and Physical Education):

Professor Killion makes learning about all aspects of health enjoyable and leaves you wanting to learn more!

LaToya Collins (Business Administration):

She has been an inspiration since day one. I truly would not have been here without her support and admirable leadership. She is and extraordinary professor and I will truly miss her and it pains me to know that the future students at MCC will not have the privilege to experience her next semester.An Amazing person overall.

Lena Shiao (Education and Human Services):

Professor Shiao is a very passionate and kind person! She has been there to guide and provide me with words of encouragement along the way. I am proud and honored to have her as a Professor and mentor! I definitely know that I made the right decision to attend MCC and earn my Associates degree as childcare practitioner. I’ve learned so much and feel that I have provided with a great opportunity to help children learn and grow!

Marisol Galrza-Ruiz (World Languages and Culture):

She is understanding of her students, she always comes in with a smile and an energy that brightens up the class. Professor Marisol takes the time to ensure her students understand the material and provides us with the tools necessary to meet our goals. Another great perk of being a student of Señora Ruiz is how easily I as a Latina can relate to her. Me and her know how important it is for us Latinas to stick together and learn from each other. Whenever i can relate to something in the class room it just makes my learning 100x easier, and i owe all the knowledge i have gained this semester (in Spanish) to Profesora Marisol. Thank you!! For such a great term.

Martha Macdonald (Tutoring Services):

Martha Macdonald is one of the great person I mate in my MCC stay. i would like to thank her for everything she do for me all student who need her help.

Mary Wilson (Psychology):

I’m taking her Adult Psychopathology and I’ve learned than I’ve expected in her classes, you can tell she has many years under belt but she still loves what she does. She entered every class with a bright smile. She teaches not just psychology but let’s people into her personal experience not just as a teacher and former therapist but as someone with mental illness and family history. So I’ve learned at lot about that aspect and things she adds into class lectures like new technology in psychology and personal stories to humanize these disorders.

Matthew Fox (English and Philosophy):

Professor Fox is an excellent professor at MCC. English is not my strength at all. His patience and willingness to answer all my questions quickly and clearly has made a huge difference in my success as an adult learner at MCC. Even though I take English as an online class, he is readily available to respond to my emails and meet with me if need be. Thank you

Matthew Pettit (VaPA):

Professor Pettit is one of the most passionate and friendly people I know. He is one of those people that loves what he does and makes every class he teaches better because of it. I always look forward to going to his class because I know I’m going to learn something interesting. He’s willing to stay late and discuss films with students to get their understanding and explain his. I’ve had many great conversations with Pettit that have really helped drive me this past semester. I wouldn’t trade him for the world.
Professor Pettit and his Cinema Drama class has been one of my favorite parts of this semester. He clearly has a passion for the medium and does a fantastic job of getting his class just as passionate about film, always engaging with each student with as if they are the only student in the class. He is an asset to the film program at MCC.

Matthew Pagani (Counseling and Disability Services):

To keep this very simple, Matt has been SUCH an asset to my success here at MCC. I truly value his insight and efforts to support me along my journey with school. He is flexible and always open to adjusting to my current needs, whatever they may be. He's been keen to understanding what works best for me and providing an abundance of tools that allow me to explore at my own pace. He is always welcoming, and always gentle without compromising authenticity, which is important for me in any form of therapy. I am grateful for the service he provides on behalf of MCC and hope he continues the amazing work he does here.

Michael Britton (Health and Physical Education):

He is an excellent professor. He is always helping us with a big smile and he has taught me and the whole class, a wide range of sports. His classes are very engaging and he puts on music to motivate us. He is a very nice professor. :)

Michael H Martella (Law and Criminal Justice):

He a very dedicated professor, he been teaching here for a long time and only ever missed like three days. When my student id was missing, he told me where I could get a new one and even offered directions, all so I could make it to school. His class gets a bad rep for being too hard to pass, so people are told they shouldn’t take it and that is sad because his class is actually a lot of fun to take and he’s actually a very kind and fair professor.

Naomi Schlagman (AHPS):

I enjoyed classes with her because she is a great speaker who keeps the class engaged.

Peter Francione (Law and Criminal Justice):

I would like to recognize Prof. Francione because he has made my criminal justice experience at MCC so fun. I enjoy walking into his class and learning along with joking around with him and class. He’s a prof. that is able to get every class out of their shy and comfort zone and really work together as a class and have fun. I greatly appreciate Francione for what he has done for me over the years at MCC.

Sally Dingee (Advisement and Transfer Services):

I have never met Professor Dingee in person, however she was able to teach so much on her online modules, which inspired me to search for my full potential. Her course modules helped me realize I have more to "ME" than what I had even realized. Taking her course built a beautiful chapter in my life!

Sandra Kinel (Business Administration):

Professor Kinel is superb at explaining the details of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics. She is also very patient with her students and always encourages us, and helps us to do well. She has a wonderful sense of humor and is always there for us.

Susan Bender (VaPA):

From the very first day I walked into your classroom, I knew that I was in the presence of someone special. Your ability to inspire and motivate your students is unparalleled. You not only taught me academic lessons but also instilled in me a sense of self-belief and determination that I carry with me every day. Your guidance has been invaluable, and I am forever grateful for your mentorship.

Tomomi Tewksbury (World Languages and Cultures):

Yamagishi Sensei is very passionate about teaching Japanese and it shows. Every class is fun and she makes the classroom a positive atmosphere for learning.

Wanda Willard (Psychology):

Dr. Willard took the time not only to get to know me, but to offer scholarly and career advice even though I am not a psychology major. She truly cares that we all succeed and does her part to aid in making that happen.

William Dunning (English and Philosophy):

Professor Dunning’s unique approach to teaching encourages the most unsuspecting students. Taking into account what circumstances many faces, he takes the pressure off by not conforming to the established layout of English teachers past. In prioritizing the student’s outcome, he initiates an open and engaging atmosphere where all feel comfortable sharing and receiving valuable knowledge.

From Students to Multiple Professors

Rebecca Hortwitz and William Dunning:

Professor Dunning and Professor Horwitz. I just wanted to thank you both for all of your support you both helped me expand my mind in several ways. You both have been very patient with me and I hope you both always be blessed and have a great summer. I just wanted to say thank you both are appreciated

Karen Morris and Lydia Tien:

Professor Karen Morris dedicated her time to thoroughly teach me Business law this semester and was available for office hours to help with any additional understanding of the concepts. Professor Tien was so helpful and understanding this semester and really made sure that the class was comprehending the material. She was also readily available through email to answer any questions or concerns in a fast manner. Both are great professors that I would love to take again in the future.

Donald Toyer, Kelly Nagle and Dina Ginovelli

Math has always been something I struggled with in life however Professor Toyer has never given up (even the days I completely did) on making sure that I understand what is going on. He is actively engaged with every student in our class so that they complete by staying after class to help those who are struggling, not moving to problems without making sure the class fully understands the last one**. Those two things alone have made him stand out from the very beginning to me and I swore when this day came I knew I would nominate him. He meets people where they are at and my class is not easy to deal with. A lot of students get angry because they don't understand and I have heard some pretty vile things said to him during class but not one single time did he ever allow it to get to him (at least in front of us) because he knew it was not personal, he understood that frustration has nothing to do with him, its what he's teaching. He talked to me one day about how he used to hate math for the same reasons I do and the fact alone that he can relate with students on that level makes him that much more qualified to teach it. That is why he is able to meet students where they are at and not take things personally-its admirable. So this semester I nominate him!
If I could choose three, Kelly Nagle and Dina Ginovelli would be right there with him. Kelly is genuinely just a phenomenal teacher, not just this semester but last as well. She also has been a huge part of my journey so far and to be honest I do not know if I would have made it through this last year without her. I love the way she teaches, explains things and challenges us as students to think for ourselves and go with our guts. I have learned so much from her and I don't even think she realizes that so thank you Professor Nagle for being apart of my journey, I really do appreciate you so much!
Dina Ginovelli would also be nominated due to her devotion to her students, being actively open and engaging with every student, meeting us where we are at without ANY judgement what so ever and for being just such an amazing woman that in unafraid, and unapologetic. I have learned so much about the sociological side of life because of her. All the things I used to think I knew about people and life were challenged when I walked into her class. I loved learning about social concepts, norms and behavioral patterns all of which I thought I already knew all about were not what I expected them to be. The way she teaches is personable and gets the class involved. For sociology I think she is probably the best teacher to have for all of these reasons.I have so much gratitude for all of my teachers both this semester and last semester. Thank you to all of you for being a part of my journey so far!

Bobby Wright, Matthew William, Todd Korol and LaToya Williams

These three teachers are simply amazing! They pour into their students and go the extra mile to make sure that I succeeded. Best Part - Their door was always open. Thank you ladies and gents soooooo much for making sure I succeeded.

The Entire Maintenance Team:

I just felt it was necessary to shoutout the people who keep our school clean, as its no small task. The service they provide is so impactful to our individual and collective well-being. To not acknowledge the work they do, is to take it for granted. I am grateful for all of those who come to the campus every day and make our experience better. Without the maintenance team, the school would quite literally be a complete mess, so I'd just like to thank those that keep our halls clean and help us stay safe and healthy. Your efforts are seen and felt!

Melis Kural
Teaching & Creativity Center
08/01/2024