Learn More About Cybersecurity

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Program prepares students to enter the field immediately or transfer to a four-year institution.

To help students learn more about the variety of courses of study that Schoolcraft College offers, we’re introducing a new monthly feature called “Program Spotlight.” In each Program Spotlight, we’ll provide an overview of what students will learn, the expertise of our faculty and career outlook. For this installment, we take a look at Cybersecurity. Our thanks to Timothy S. Baron, Assistant Professor, Computer Information Systems (CIS)/Computer Networking Technology (CNT), for his insights. 

With data breaches, compromised personal and financial information and hackers in the news almost daily, the importance of cybersecurity has never been greater. Schoolcraft College offers two options in this vital field through the Computer Information Systems Program: A Cybersecurity Associate in Applied Science Degree and a Cybersecurity Certificate.

From a high level, cybersecurity involves protecting an organization’s networks, software and information from potential threats. 

“Our Cybersecurity programs prepare students for entry into the cybersecurity field,” said Timothy S. Baron, CIS Professor. “Like many fields there is no one-size-fits-all job description, and many specialties can be associated with ‘cybersecurity.’

Cybersecurity workers
Schoolcraft College’s Cybersecurity programs help students create a solid foundation of networking and software knowledge that leads to learning about advanced security topics, including design decisions, assessing weaknesses and implementing appropriate defenses.

“Information security always has been important. Cybersecurity is more specifically connected to any industry that uses a network or any digital device, which pretty much includes everything! This, in turn, provides students who have the requisite skills and knowledge a very large pool of potential employers.”

In particular, Schoolcraft College’s programs help students create a solid foundation of networking and software knowledge that leads to learning about advanced security topics, including design decisions, assessing weaknesses and implementing appropriate defenses.

Students learn this material from experts with professional experience.

“Each of the faculty teaching CIS and CNT courses within the program has applicable industry experience and credentials,” Professor Baron said. “This can be in the form of industry recognized certifications, demonstrated skills, or relevant and timely experience in the real world.”

In addition, the College has invested heavily in physical equipment and software needed to provide the best learning experience.

“Each of our programs have courses that align to widely recognized industry certifications from organizations such as CompTIA, Microsoft, Cisco, and (ISC)2”

Timothy S. Baron, Assistant Professor, Computer Information Systems (CIS)/Computer Networking Technology (CNT)

“Each of our programs have courses that align to widely recognized industry certifications from organizations such as CompTIA, Microsoft, Cisco, and (ISC)2,” Professor Baron said. “These certifications and the skills they encompass are in constant demand and give the students that achieve them a leg up when pursuing employment opportunities. This alignment also enables our courses to be transferable to many four-year institutions, with many students choosing to further their education after transferring from Schoolcraft.”

Although the subject of cybersecurity can be an intimidating one, Professor Baron emphasizes that it is approachable as well.

“Changing career fields, finding a new direction, and learning something completely new after many years or decades can be very scary,” Professor Baron said. “Our program, and many other programs at Schoolcraft, enable students to do just that and find new success.

“Cybersecurity-related skills are in constant demand, and many of cybersecurity’s most important tenets are familiar to someone with little to no technical experience. So if you’re interested in cybersecurity but find yourself being a bit intimidated, we can help you to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to pursue your goals.”

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These two important departments sometimes get confused

Learning, of course, is the goal of any college experience. Part of that education means familiarizing yourself with some unfamiliar terms. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

As part of an occasional series, we’ll explain phrases, lingo or topics to add to your college vocabulary. We call it “Say What?” If there’s a topic you’d like to see covered, please send suggestions to [email protected]. 

Today we’ll learn about the differences between two departments at Schoolcraft College that are sometimes confused: Financial Aid and Student Accounts. 

Signs for both financial aid and student accounts
The departments of Financial Aid and Student Accounts are both in the McDowell Student Center. 

In a general sense, financial aid refers to resources a student might use to pay for higher education, such as grants, scholarships and loans.

Student Accounts, on the other hand, is responsible for all of the billing related to Schoolcraft College. This department does NOT handle financial aid.

With both Financial Aid and Student Accounts, it’s best to get as early of a jump as possible on your business to hopefully avoid headaches later on.

Let’s take a quick look at each department, starting with Financial Aid.

Things to know about Financial Aid

For just about any sort of financial aid, the starting point is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, which you complete online. For some, filling out the FAFSA is pretty straightforward. For others, it’s a long and involved process. You can save your work, so if you have to stop, that’s OK. 

Basic information to have handy includes:

  • Your social security number
  • Your driver’s license number
  • Federal tax return (Student/Parent when applicable)
  • Anything else that shows reported income
  • The school you’re attending or interested in attending

It’s best to file the FAFSA as early as possible. Again, as the name states, it is free to fill out – no fees whatsoever. 

Getting back to student financial aid, there are five main types:

  • Federal Grants: Requires a FAFSA application. Grants are need based and given without repayment requirements.
  • Federal Work Study: Requires a FAFSA application. This program allows students to earn money to pay for their college education. These positions are not guaranteed.
  • State Programs: State-sponsored programs such as Tuition Incentive Program, Michigan Competitive Scholarship (MCS), Michigan Education Trust (MET) and Michigan Education Savings Plan (MESP).
  • Scholarships: Are given without repayment requirements but may have many factors involved in meeting requirements, often need and academic levels. There is a separate application required. A number of scholarships may require that a student has completed a FAFSA.
  • Loans: Requires a FAFSA application. Funds are available to students. All loans must be repaid with interest. Repayment begins when you are no longer attending college at a part-time credit level or graduation.

It’s best to explore your options and possibilities with each source and use each to best advantage. Most students pay for college through a combination of financial aid. Schoolcraft College’s Financial Aid team can help answer questions.

Looking into scholarships

Schoolcraft College currently has over 300 scholarships for students. Non-traditional students and those from underserved populations are especially encouraged to explore what’s offered. 

Keep in mind that these are just the start – many entities offer scholarships as well. As with working to find the right job or internship, networking skills can help you find scholarships, too. Some students may qualify for the Detroit Promise scholarship opportunity. There are also other scholarship avenues students can pursue like Scholarship America and FastWeb! that lists multiple scholarship opportunities any student can receive. 

Learning about loans

In a general sense, loans are available from two sources: The federal government or lenders. The federal government distributes federal loans at a fixed interest rate. These rates are generally lower to those from a private lender.

A lender such as a bank or other institution offers two types of loans – secured or unsecured. A secured loan is backed by collateral, such as a house or other property or assets. Secured loans basically offer some security for the lender and generally have lower interest rates. Unsecured loans do not have this type of backing and generally have higher interest rates.

Depending on your financial situation, it may be advantageous to have a co-signer for your private loan. In fact, the lending institution may require it.

To learn more:

For more information about financial aid at Schoolcraft College, please visit the financial aid webpage at schoolcraft.edu/aid. You can also reach the department via email and phone at [email protected] or 734-462-4433. 

Things to know about Student Accounts

Again, Student Accounts is a separate department from Financial Aid. Its role is to help students understand their billing and answer questions and review the steps needed to keep your account in good standing.

They also can help make sure any college savings plan funds you’re using are sent to your account and ensure any refunds are properly credited.

One avenue students are urged to consider is establishing a payment plan as soon as they register for classes. It’s interest-free and can help spread out what you need to pay over a longer period of time, giving you more flexibility and convenience. 

As a reminder, all tuition and fees are due within three weekdays of registration.

If your class is to be paid for by your business or other third party, Student Accounts can help coordinate those payments as well.

Student Accounts also can provide any tax forms that might be needed and can assist international students with payments coming from outside the United States.

To learn more

For more information about, please visit the Student Accounts webpage. You also can reach the department by email at [email protected].

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She wants to use plants to reduce overall carbon footprint

When Katelynn Haygood talks about making a positive impact on the environment through science, it’s not just a lot of hot air. 

“I am passionate about reducing the overall carbon footprint of urban cities through fauna (plants),” said Haygood, a Schoolcraft College graduate who is pursuing a degree in Environmental Studies at Wayne State University.

“I hope that I can use my degree to go into conservation research and become a conservation scientist. I want to accomplish a way to lower the CO2 amount humans produce and improve the overall air quality through bio-engineering plants.”

Katelynn Haygood
Katelynn Haygood was selected for a UROP (Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program) Fellowship at the University of Michigan. UROP is a year-long academic experience that engages students in research, scholarly and creative inquiry.

This impressive goal had its start at Schoolcraft College. Haygood, who was born in Detroit and grew up in Livonia, wanted to earn an Associate Degree before transferring to a four-year school.

“(Going to Schoolcraft College) also gave me time to figure out what I want to study and do in the future,” she said. “Having the freedom to take classes that aren’t on a linear path is very encouraging when I was a teenager. I didn’t know what I wanted to do and taking a class that interested me helped me figure it out.”

Haygood was careful to balance her job with her studies. She started at Schoolcraft College in the fall of 2016 and graduated in the winter of 2020 with her Associate in Science Degree. 

“When I was going to Schoolcraft, I only went part time to balance it,” she said. “I always put school first to not let my grades slip, so if that meant I had to work less hours then I would. Now that I go to school full time at Wayne State, I only work weekends. I still will request time off near midterms in order to study hard. My family is very supportive of my education and help any way they can.”

In addition to her family’s support, Haygood appreciated the support she received at Schoolcraft College.

“There is a huge support staff at Schoolcraft,” she said. “The professors were always there to talk to me when I needed help and lead me to opportunities that later would help me end up where I am today.”

One of those opportunities included the UROP Fellowship at the University of Michigan. UROP stands for Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. It’s a year-long academic experience that engages students in research, scholarly and creative inquiry.

English Professor Helen Ditouras helped Haygood make the connection.  

“I hope more people take advantage of the opportunities at Schoolcraft, whether it’s trying a new interest or taking advantage of all the programs the institution has to offer.”

Katelynn Haygood

“UROP is a wonderful opportunity for students to work in a prestigious setting like U of M to advance their research goals,” Professor Ditouras said. “Several of my students have completed the fellowship over the years and have had overwhelmingly positive experiences.”

Haygood agrees. She attended during the summer of 2019.

“It was a great experience; I am so grateful for professor Ditouras for telling me about it and writing me a letter of recommendation,” Haygood said. “Due to the pandemic everything was virtual so it was a little isolating, but U of M tried hard to make everyone feel welcome with Zoom meetings and weekly activity. 

“The program helps transition students from a community college to a university. It also gets them experience in the career path they might want. All the professors there made a huge impact by guiding me and being great mentors. 

“I even came back that winter just as a mentor to help other UROP students adjust to the virtual experience. It was that experience that led me to my grant now with Wayne State doing research.”

And it all started with her hometown college. 

“I hope more people take advantage of the opportunities at Schoolcraft, whether it’s trying a new interest or taking advantage of all the programs the institution has to offer,” Haygood said. “It can open more paths than you are aware of at the time. Schoolcraft is a great place to get out of your comfort zone and find yourself and have so much support behind you.”

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Winter Concert follows on Saturday

Live music performances are returning to Schoolcraft College, starting with the debut of this season’s Noon Concert Series followed by the Winter Concert.

Noon Concert Series

The Paul Keller Ensemble leads off the Noon Concert Series on Wednesday, December 8, in the Kehrl Auditorium in the VisTaTech Center.

Jazz bassist, composer, arranger and bandleader Paul Keller has been a favorite with Detroit and Ann Arbor Jazz fans for years. His ensembles have covered a range of jazz styles, with arrangements for groups ranging from trio to big band.

Trombone players in ensemble
Schoolcraft College is pleased to bring back live music performances.

For this performance of the popular Christmas Songs for Jazz Lovers show, Keller will be joined by vocalist Sarah D’Angelo, trumpeter Paul Finkbeiner, saxophonist Keith Kaminski, trombonist Terry Kimura, pianist Duncan McMillan and drummer David Alvarez.

In accordance with the College’s COVID-19 protocols, unvaccinated attendees are required to wear masks. The event also will be livestreamed. 

The rest of the schedule for the Noon Concert Series is as follows:

  • Wednesday, January 19, 2022 – Iskander Zakirov, piano
  • Wednesday, February 9, 2022 – Barbara Ware & Friends
  • Wednesday, February 16, 2022 – Trio Virado
  • Wednesday, March 9, 2022 – Randy Napoleon Quartet
  • Wednesday, March 16, 2022 – Schoolcraft Music Faculty
  • Wednesday, April 13, 2022 – Frances Renzi, piano

The Noon Concert Series is sponsored by the Schoolcraft Foundation, the Schoolcraft Liberal Arts Office and the Schoolcraft Music Department. The concerts are free and open to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted at the door and will be used to fund student scholarships.

Winter Concert

The Winter Concert, presented by the Schoolcraft College Wind Ensemble, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 11, in the DiPonio Room in the VisTaTech Center. There is no admission charge.

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Today for Staff Spotlight we’re sitting down with Elizabeth Kenney, our Learning Center Coordinator, to learn about her position and about Learning Support Services. 

Schoolcraft College: Hello, Elizabeth! You started at Schoolcraft College in August of 2020 as Academic Success Coach for Writing, then moved into your present role this past February. Please tell us a little about your background and what led you to Schoolcraft College.

Elizabeth Kenney: Thank you for giving me the opportunity to tell you more about why love what I do here at Schoolcraft as the Learning Center Coordinator. As you mentioned, I began at Schoolcraft as the Academic Success Coach for Writing last fall semester and transitioned to my current role in February of this year. I grew up in Livonia and so it is a joy to be back in Schoolcraft community, particularly as a member of our Learning Support Services team. 

I am a proud graduate of Mercy High School (Farmington Hills), Saint Mary’s College (Notre Dame, Indiana), where I earned my Bachelor of Arts in English Writing, and Georgia State University (Atlanta), where I earned my Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics. I am grateful to each of these institutions and communities that shaped, inspired and prepared me for my current role.

My passion for tutoring first began during undergrad at Saint Mary’s College, where I worked as Writing Tutor in the College’s Writing Center. I instantly fell in love with this role. As the tutor, I was learning right alongside the student; together, we sharpened each other’s skills and knowledge. I learned first-hand how powerful one-on-one, individualized academic support can be. I saw positive transformations not only in my peers I tutored, but also for myself as a student.

Little did I know this experience would inspire my future career path. After working in corporate marketing for a few years post-college, I set out to earn my Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics at Georgia State University. Here I had the opportunity to further develop my knowledge of language, tutor ESL students, and work as a graduate research assistant.

Beyond the realm of education, I have previously worked in marketing, customer service and administrative positions. All of these were valuable experiences. Along the way, I have encountered many talented and kind people who have made me a better professional and person. 

I try to encourage students to be open and follow the path that excites them. If this path takes you somewhere that you may not have expected, look around and see what you can learn. You may actually have bumped into exactly where you want to be and unlocked a passion you had not yet discovered. And if not, you can always make a change by working hard and being creative.   

Schoolcraft College: Please tell us about what you do as Learning Center Coordinator.

Elizabeth Kenney: In my role I have the pleasure of overseeing the Learning Center, located in the Bradner Library. In the Learning Center, we provide peer-to-peer tutoring for a wide variety of academic areas and courses, both in-person and remotely. 

I hire, train and manage our fantastic team. I really enjoy working with our team of student tutors and service desk team members. I am grateful to work with Christine Connell, who is our Learning Center Assistant. 

Elizabeth Kenney
Elizabeth Kenney oversees the Learning Center in the Bradner Library.

Through the collective and dedicated work of our Learning Center Team, we are able to provide one-on-one, individualized academic support that sets students up for success and encourages them on their path. Witnessing and playing a role in these encounters makes my job extremely rewarding. 

Schoolcraft College: Learning Support Services (LSS) is a great resource for our students. Please tell us about LSS. Can any student take advantage? What do we need to know?

Elizabeth Kenney: Yes! LSS has many excellent resources for students. Our resources are available to all Schoolcraft students. We have three primary programs within LSS: 

  • The first is peer-to-peer tutoring in the Learning Center. As I mentioned, we offer both in-person and online tutoring for course-specific content support. 
  • Second, we have Academic Success Coaches (ASCs), who each specialize in particular areas of academic support, including for Math, Writing, College Reading, Study Skills, International Learning Support, and TEAS Prep. Our ASCs are available to meet with students one-on-one and additionally host various events and workshops related to their areas of expertise throughout each semester. 
  • Third, LSS provides a variety of opportunities for peer mentorship. We have peer mentorship programs for Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) in which student leaders facilitate structured study sessions for select course sections, STARS DEI in which student leaders engage in discussions and activities related to diversity, inclusion, equity, and social justice, and TEAS Prep in which students pursuing the nursing field and preparing for the TEAS Test can participate in our test prep program.

If students, staff, or community members, ever have questions about any LSS services or would like to get involved with any of the programming that we offer, our team is always happy to point you in the right direction and connect you with the particular resource you are looking for. Contact us at 734-462-7330 or [email protected].

Schoolcraft College: What are the main concerns or challenges students have and how do you help them feel more at ease and find their way forward?

Elizabeth Kenney: Pursuing higher education courses and programs is no small endeavor. And to that end, each student’s journey and needs are different. Students come to us in LSS for an array of reasons and with a variety of questions. Whenever I meet with a student, I try my best to get to know who the student is and what needs the student is looking for or may find useful in some way to support their academic journey. 

Students come to us in the LC for questions related to the academic content of their classes, assistance with online learning platforms, study strategy support, and about student life in general. Whenever we do not have the answer or the resource within the LC, we point the student in the right direction. I often explain to new employees on our team that about 80% of our role is content-specific support and the other 20% of our role is connecting students to applicable resources.   

My goal for every student who walks through the doors of the Learning Center is increased motivation. We may not be able to help a student with every single question or concern in just one visit to the LC, but we can at least help them find the answer to the next piece of the puzzle which will help propel them forward. Our goal is to help students become independent learners, motivated to pursue whatever goals they have set out to achieve.

Schoolcraft College: You’re not too removed from your days as a student. Does that help in your position?

Elizabeth Kenney: You’re right, I am not far removed at all. In fact, I am a current student, earning my doctoral degree in Rhetoric at Texas Woman’s University. 

Being a student definitely makes me better in my role as the Learning Center Coordinator, and vice versa. I have the opportunity to practice what I preach on a daily basis. Since I relate to the realities of student life, I think this enhances my ability to relate to students who come to the Learning Center. 

Schoolcraft College: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Elizabeth Kenney: To students, do not be afraid to ask for help and advocate for yourself. Your goals are worth it. Be creative, bold, and determined in pursuing your ambitions.

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Registration is now open

A collaboration with Google to offer the Google IT Support Certificate is one of many new courses available from Schoolcraft College’s Personal and Professional Learning (PPL) department for the Winter 2022 schedule. Registration is now open and runs through April 25.

The Google IT Support Certificate is

  • Designed to help those with no experience prepare for entry-level jobs in IT Support in less than six months
  • Taught by Google employees who began in IT Support
  • Facilitated by a Schoolcraft College instructor with CompTIA A+ certification, who provides direct support for students

“We are extremely pleased to offer the Google IT Support Certificate for the Winter 2022 schedule,” said Dr. Jodie Beckley, Director, Personal & Professional Learning. “This course is open to students 16 years and older, so this is a great way for high school students to prepare for a career in IT.”

Potential careers the Google IT Support Certificate prepares students for include:

  • Database administrator
  • IT specialist
  • Tech support specialist
  • Systems analyst
  • Network engineer
  • Help desk technician
  • IT support specialist
  • IT technician
  • Computer user specialist
  • IT assistant

Dr. Beckley noted several additional benefits for students who complete the Google IT Support Certificate.

“Upon completing the course, students can claim a Credly Badge to share on LinkedIn and other social networks,” she said. “Google also provides access to a local IT recruiter through Career Circle as well as access to Big Interview to receive assistance in preparing for job interviews.

“Finally, students will receive a 20% discount on the CompTIA A+ certification exam if they would like to take it.”

New courses offered; favorites return

PPL registration booklet cover
The Personal & Professional Learning (PPL) Winter 2022 Schedule is now available.

Several other all-new courses as well as the return of some favorites also are part of PPL’s Winter 2022 offering.

“From the return of our full aquatics, to new languages, art and self-defense classes and more, PPL has something for everyone,” Dr. Beckley said.

The popular Dine & Discover series returns as well with two new topics: Coney Detroit: The Capital of a Coney Nation and Raising Butterflies in the Garden

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Schoolcraft College ceramics students, Culinary Operations donate bowls and food

Schoolcraft College’s Empty Bowl Luncheon is a great way to get a hearty meal, take home a new bowl and help ease hunger – all at once.

This year’s Empty bowl Luncheon will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 1, in the Wilson Room inside of Henry’s in the VisTaTech Center.

  • People looking at a table of ceramic bowls
    Photo 1
  • Someone pouring soup into a bowl
    Photo 2
Photo 1: Attendees can purchase a handcrafted bowl created and donated by Schoolcraft College ceramics students.
Photo 2: Schoolcraft Culinary Operations donates hearty soup and fresh-baked bread.

Attendees can purchase a handcrafted bowl created and donated by Schoolcraft College ceramics students, with all proceeds going to the Schoolcraft Student Food Pantry. Along with their purchase, they will receive a bowl of soup and fresh-baked bread donated by Schoolcraft Culinary Operations.

The College’s food pantry is open to all members of the campus community and is committed to trying to address hunger and food insecurity issues on campus. Donations of non-perishable, non-expired food items are gladly accepted throughout the year. Donations can be placed in the collection bins in campus buildings or dropped off at the Student Activities Office in the lower level of the VisTaTech Center.

Learn more about the Schoolcraft Food Pantry.

Also, you can make your gift to the Food Pantry through the Schoolcraft College Foundation at schoolcraft.edu/giving. Select Food Pantry under the gift designation box.

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Theta Chi Alpha is for student-athletes at two-year schools.

Schoolcraft College has reinforced its commitment to student-athlete academic excellence with acceptance into the National College Athlete Honor Society as the Michigan Alpha Chapter of Theta Chi Alpha.

Theta Chi Alpha recognizes student-athletes from two-year institutions who excel in both the classroom and competition.

“We’re pleased to join the membership of Theta Chi Alpha,” said Cali Crawford, Director of Athletics for Schoolcraft College. “Academics always come first for our student-athletes, and being a part of Theta Chi Alpha will provide an excellent avenue to showcase their achievements in the classroom and in their sports.”

The National College Athlete Honor Society, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was founded in 1996 by then DePauw University head football coach Nick Mourouzis. His goal was to provide outstanding student-athletes with an opportunity to become connected within a fraternal association that aligns their educational and athletic successes for a lifetime.

“Academics always come first for our student-athletes, and being a part of Theta Chi Alpha will provide an excellent avenue to showcase their achievements in the classroom and in their sports.”

Cali Crawford, Director of Athletics

In order to be inducted into Theta Chi Alpha, a student-athlete must attend a two-year college that is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) or similar governing body. Honorees also must complete at least three full time semesters and must have achieved a minimum cumulative grade-point average of a 3.4 (on a 4.0 scale), while also participating in their varsity sport.

Amy Proctor, Student Athlete Support System (SASS) Coordinator, will serve as advisor for Schoolcraft College’s chapter of Theta Chi Alpha. Schoolcraft College will hold its first induction ceremony during the Winter 2022 semester.

Schoolcraft College’s Student SASS program is one of the most comprehensive among community colleges, serving as both a checkpoint and a way to get students back on track.

Dr. Michael Oliver, now Associate Dean of Career Services, helped form SASS in 1997 to help student-athletes succeed.

Dedicated space in the Physical Education building is available to help student-athletes with their studies.

“Many student athletes struggled academically due to the demands of their sport, demands on their time and their academic load,” he said. “Therefore, to help student athletes be successful academically and graduate with a degree, certificate or successfully transfer, Schoolcraft took ownership and proactively developed a comprehensive academic support program aimed at holding student-athletes accountable for their academics and at the same time provide them with the support needed for them to be successful academically while recognizing the importance of their sport.”

As SASS Coordinator, Proctor is the liaison among instructors; coaches; Cali Crawford, Director of Athletics; and the students. Faculty report to her six times a semester (about every two weeks) on the following:

  • Attendance
  • Passing
  • Borderline
  • Failing

“SASS is here to help student-athletes academically,” Proctor said.  “If a student is on the SASS report, coaches, the AD and the student are notified.”

From there, the focus is on finding the root cause of the issue and tailoring an individual solution.

“I work with the student to find out what they need help with,” Proctor said. “Do they need tutoring? An academic coach?”

Proctor generally works to help students improve in five key areas:

  • Time management
  • Textbook reading
  • Memory
  • Note-taking
  • Test taking

“We’re committed to helping the students stay on track to get their Associate Degree,” Proctor said. “Generally speaking, if they hit their deadlines, they’ll be OK.”

To help positively reinforce academic excellence, SASS and the Department of Athletics has begun recognizing student-athletes of the month and also held a drive-through student-athlete academic honors celebration in July.

In addition, Schoolcraft College was named the 2020-21 National Junior College Athletic Association Academic Team of the Year in Women’s Bowling for achieving the highest grade point average in their sport. As a team, Schoolcraft compiled a 3.59 GPA.

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Today for Faculty Spotlight we’re sitting down with Josselyn Moore, Professor of Anthropology. Professor Moore also previously taught Sociology and served the College in a leadership position with the Schoolcraft College International institute (SCII). 

Schoolcraft College: Hello, Professor Moore! Tell us a little about your background and your career at Schoolcraft College. 

Professor Josselyn Moore: I have always been interested in digging things out of the earth – fossils, bones, ancient civilizations. Initially, I thought I might be interested in classical archaeology with a focus on Greco-Roman civilization, but when I took my first anthropology course at Washington University in St. Louis, I was hooked. Anthropological archaeology is just as likely to dig through people’s garbage in order to reconstruct the daily lives of ordinary folks. 

I continued my education at Hunter College, City University of New York, in New York City, where I earned a Master of Arts in Anthropology. While I was there, I worked at the American Museum of Natural History. It was exciting to walk past amazing displays every morning as I made my way to the office. Ultimately, I wound up in the doctoral program in Archaeology at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor. 

Professor Moore examining a skull
Josselyn Moore, Professor of Anthropology, describes anthropology as the scientific study of humankind – in all times and places. 

Anthropological training typically involves fieldwork, and mine included Navajo and Anasazi archaeology at Black Mesa, Arizona, as well as ethnographic experience in Tecualtitan, a small subsistence farming village just outside of Guadalajara, Mexico.

Before coming to Schoolcraft as full-time faculty, I worked as a part-time instructor for a dozen years at five different colleges in the southeast Michigan area – ranging from Albion College and Schoolcraft to Jackson Community College at the Southeast Michigan State Prison. 

This broad experience gave me an opportunity to become acquainted with a variety of institutional cultures and student demographics. I was fortunate to get a full-time position at Lansing Community College where I served both as faculty and in administration. When a position opened up at Schoolcraft, I eagerly applied for the job – and got it! For me, it was like coming home: I am able to live and teach in the same community. 

Schoolcraft College: You are a Professor of Anthropology. Sometimes this field of study gets confused with archaeology. Please define anthropology for us.

Professor Josselyn Moore: Anthropology is the scientific study of humankind – in all times and places. Typically, anthropologists are trained in one of four subdisciplines – Archaeology, Cultural Anthropology, Anthropological Linguistics or Physical Anthropology. Although we specialize, an anthropologist’s work is informed by the tools and insights of the sister subdisciplines. For example, an archaeologist would use ethnographic data to guide their reconstruction of the excavated culture.

In addition to the traditional four fields, a central concern in Anthropology is applied anthropology, which uses the tools of anthropology to address pressing issues in today’s complex and rapidly changing world. 

Schoolcraft College: We have two new Anthropology courses that will be offered soon. Please tell us about them. (ANTH 220, Environmental Anthropology; and ANTH 230, Medical Anthropology.)

Professor Josselyn Moore: The Anthropology Department is excited to be able to offer these new courses. Look for Environmental Anthropology in Fall 2022 and Medical Anthropology in Winter 2023. 

Anthropology brings a unique cross-cultural perspective and historical depth to both of these current and compelling topics. Environmental Anthropology studies the relationship between human populations—past and present—and their ecosystems, and encompasses topics such as globalization, structural inequalities, conservation, and sustainability. Understanding how various cultures over time understand and relate to their environment might be able to yield insights as the world charts a path into the future. 

Medical Anthropology offers a cross-cultural analysis of disease, medicine and health. Special attention is focused on globalization, inequity, nutrition and public health. Understanding the perspectives of other cultures offers applications in today’s health care industry that serves multi-ethnic communities. 

Schoolcraft College: You also served Schoolcraft College as part of the leadership team with our International Institute. Please tell us about that.

Professor Josselyn Moore: The Schoolcraft College International Institute (SCII) strives to coordinate cross-cultural learning opportunities for campus and the community by infusing international content into coursework, programs, and other Schoolcraft College activities. The goal is to develop an appreciation of the diversities and commonalities among world cultures, and better understand the global forces shaping our lives.

Primate skulls
The path of human evolution can be seen in these skulls.

I served as the Coordinator, and then Co-Coordinator, of the International Institute from 1997-2016. This faculty-driven, grass-roots initiative prospered from robust campus and administrative support. As more faculty came on board, there was an astonishing proliferation of initiatives in the few years between 2001-2006. These included the Multicultural Fair, GlobalEYEzers, the Focus Series, Global Endorsement, as well as the rebirth of the “International Agenda” publication, all of which remain as enduring products of this period of expansion.

Frankly, this was an idea whose time has come. The SCII was a committed group of faculty, as well as staff, who were simply in the right place, at the right time. 

In 2017, I stepped back from SCII leadership to allow time for a smooth transition to new leadership, with fresh talents and new visions. Now, I am able to focus on Anthropology – the reason that I went into teaching in the first place. 

Schoolcraft College: Looking back at more than a quarter-century of service to Schoolcraft College, what stands out to you? What are some of the big changes you’ve seen over the years?

Professor Josselyn Moore: Schoolcraft College has managed to define itself as an attractive and cost-effective alternative to first years of college. When I first arrived as a part-time instructor, even landscaping and signage were sparse. The physical campus has become more public-facing, welcoming not only students and the public. And, yes, more structures. Exemplary programs, like Culinary Arts, Computer Graphics and more have put Schoolcraft on the map. 

It has been astonishing how adeptly Schoolcraft College has adapted to our changing society. Automotive repair is gone. Ultrasound technology is in. 

Schoolcraft College: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Professor Josselyn Moore: I would be remiss not to mention the incredible challenges we have all faced the past couple of years, with COVID. Many of our students have managed to continue their education. College is never easy. Layer COVID on top of that and this presents formidable challenges for students – as well as our staff and faculty. Their persistence and commitment to education is to be celebrated. 

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Program has apprenticeship affiliations with top healthcare systems so you can earn while you learn

To help students learn more about the variety of courses of study that Schoolcraft College offers, we’re introducing a new monthly feature called “Program Spotlight.” In each Program Spotlight, we’ll provide an overview of what students will learn, the expertise of our faculty and career outlook. For our first installment, we take a look at Medical Assisting, with an emphasis on apprenticeship opportunities with two leading healthcare systems.

The Medical Assisting program at Schoolcraft College prepares students for a wide range of careers in health care, including primary care, pediatrics, surgery, urgent care and more. The industry currently has a shortage of qualified workers and is aggressively trying to fill positions.

“Apprenticeships are really a win-win for the student and the employer.”

Pamela Linton, Apprenticeship Coordinator for Schoolcraft College

What’s the job?

Medical assistants play a versatile and vital role as they provide most of the care in a doctor’s office. This includes logging a patient’s insurance and other demographic information as well as medical history and medication list.

In addition to the “paper work,” medical assistants get vital signs and can perform injections, blood draws, testing and assist the doctor with minor procedures.

With all these roles and responsibilities, medical assistants provide a vital link between the patient and doctor to ensure a smooth experience.

What degrees or certificates are offered at Schoolcraft College?

Whether you are interested in the care-giving or administrative aspects of health care, Schoolcraft’s nationally accredited medical assisting program can prepare you for both.

The credential options are:

The medical biller/receptionist skills certificate can lead to a career in a variety of health care facilities, providing organizational and operational support.

The phlebotomy skills certificate program teaches students how to draw blood through the venipuncture method, preparing them for employment as a phlebotomist in a doctor’s office, clinic or health care facility.

The medical assisting certificate prepares entry-level medical assistants through areas of cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills) and affective (behavior) learning. 

Doctor and nurse working with a patient
Photo 1
Person getting their blood pressure checked
Photo 2
Photo 1: Medical assistants provide a vital link between the patient and doctor to ensure a smooth experience.
Photo 2: Medical assistants get vital signs and can perform injections, blood draws, testing and assist the doctor with minor procedures.

Apprenticeships available – earn while you learn

A key advantage of Schoolcraft College’s Medical Assisting program is its apprenticeship affiliations with IHA, which is part of Trinity Health, and also with Henry Ford Health System.

Apprenticeship students “earn while they learn” because the company that employs the student may also pay a portion or more of tuition to support their education. Because of the shortage of medical assistants, employers are turning to apprenticeships to grow their talent pipeline.

“We started the apprenticeship program almost two years ago at IHA due to the vast need of medical assistants within our company and the shortage that we’ve seen throughout Michigan,” said Annie Steiner, Talent Acquisition Manager, IHA. “We decided to grow from within our own medical assistants. We’ve had four now successfully graduate the program and become medical assistants with us.”

Employers ask for a two-year commitment after graduation.

Nurse on a computer
Medical assistants play a versatile and vital role as they provide most of the care in a doctor’s office. This includes logging a patient’s insurance and other demographic information as well as medical history and medication list.

“Apprenticeships are really a win-win for the student and the employer,” said Pamela Linton, Apprenticeship Coordinator for Schoolcraft College. “The employers are gaining students who are establishing a foundation with their educational training and bringing that to the workplace where they’re receiving on-the-job training!”

“And for the students, they have a job lined up in a place they like. Our latest data on medical assistants shows that after five years about 80% of the student apprentices are still with the company that sponsored them.”

Linton said the College is working to establish more registered apprenticeships in other health care fields, including Pharmacy Technician, a program offered now, and Surgical Technician, which will be offered starting in the Winter 2022 semester.

Mary Donahee-Rader, who was part of the first class of graduates for the Medical Assisting program at Schoolcraft College and is now the Program Director, encourages students to take advantage of the apprenticeship opportunities.

“You immediately get to employ the skills you learned at your place of employment – you don’t have to worry about forgetting anything,” she said. “There’s a huge shortage of medical assistants right now, so that lets them employ you immediately.”

You can learn more about Medical Assisting in this video.

National Apprenticeship Week

National Apprenticeship Week is November 15-21. On Wednesday, November 17, Schoolcraft College will hold a virtual event from 9-10:30 a.m. Pamela Linton, Apprenticeship Coordinator for Schoolcraft College, will speak about the support the College provides to employers and students to make transitioning in apprenticeship straightforward and simple. Register for the event online.

Read Schoolcraft College’s proclamation (PDF) in support of National Apprenticeship Week.

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This year’s event was held in a virtual format

Schoolcraft College lent its expertise and highlighted the Manufacturing & Engineering Center (MEC) to support the 2021 Wayne County Manufacturing Day held Friday, October 1.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s event was held in a virtual format and earned a strong audience:

  • 6,434 pre-registered students
    • 2,118 middle school students
    • 4,296 high school students
    • 20 adults
  • 47 schools representing 28 districts
  • 25 participating businesses
  • 6 participating colleges

Robotic arm in a manufacturing room
A robotics lab is part of Schoolcraft College’s Manufacturing & Engineering Center (MEC).

MEC, is the home of Schoolcraft College’s engineering and technology programs. Opened in the fall of 2020, the 48,000-square-foot facility more than doubled the space for occupational programs, including:

  • Biomedical Engineering Technology
  • Computer Aided Design (CAD)
  • Engineering Technology
  • Electronics
  • Manufacturing Technology/CNC (Computer Numerical Control)
  • Mechatronics
  • Metallurgy and Materials Science
  • Plastic Technology
  • Welding

MEC also houses a 3D printing lab and robotics lab.

Schoolcraft College’s presentation included a comprehensive overview of all programs as well as other opportunities, including Dual Enrollment for high school students and “boot camps” for professionals.

Each program profile included possible jobs and industries, potential wages and salaries and credential options offered at Schoolcraft College.  Visit their web page to learn more about Schoolcraft College’s Manufacturing and Technology programs.

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National Air Filtration Association recognizes outstanding work at VisTaTech Center.

With the COVID-19 pandemic still very much a part of everyday life, it’s comforting to know that Schoolcraft College has taken a leadership position in ensuring clean air in campus buildings.

That dedication and diligence was recognized on Thursday, October 21, as Schoolcraft College won a National Air Filtration Association (NAFA®) Clean Air Award for the VisTaTech Center. Schoolcraft is the only American college or university to win this award, which recognizes leadership and excellence in air filtration.

“We’re very pleased and honored to receive the NAFA Clean Air Award,” said Stephen Green, Director of Facilities Management. “It shows the dedication of our team at Facilities wanting to make the air as clean as possible.”

That dedication is readily apparent, said Larry Krass, Account Manager with Tri-Dim Filter Corporation in Belleville.

“I have been an air filtration specialist for over 25 years and there are locations that will not and do not take care of the HVAC units,” he said. “I know firsthand that some colleges only change the HVAC filters twice a year and final filters every three to four years. Schoolcraft College has a great staff that takes the time to do the maintenance needed to keep students, employees and community members healthy and safe.”

Crystal-style, Clean Air Award on a table
Schoolcraft College won a National Air Filtration Association (NAFA®) Clean Air Award for the VisTaTech Center.

To be nominated for the clean air award, each nominee must earn a total of 52 points using the criteria set forth by NAFA. In addition to achieving the minimum point requirement, nominees are judged on their due diligence in providing a clean and healthy building environment. 

Krass said facilities are gauged on a series of actions taken to increase filtration in their facilities. Schoolcraft College, for example, earned a high MERV* rating and received top points for this section.

In addition, Schoolcraft College earned high marks for:

  • Maintaining a filter maintenance program with quarterly filter changes
  • Gasketing filters to ensure all air flows through the filters and does not bypass the filters
  • Having digital filter monitoring devices in place to alert if a filter needs changing
  • Regular coil cleaning to keep the coils free from debris and mold issues

Group of men holding a crystal-style award
Shown (left to right) are: Paul Brown, Facilities General Maintenance; Bob Jarosz, Facilities HVAC; Larry Krass, Account Manager, Tri-Dim Filter Corporation; Brent Densmore, Facilities, General Maintenance; Jeff Modica, Facilities Management Supervisor; Rich Worosz, Facilities HVAC; and Stephen Green, Director of Facilities Management.

“I have to work hard with each facility and assist them in what is needed to give the best indoor air quality,” Krass said. “Some locations only want to order filters and are not interested in replacing gasket or cleaning coils. When I find a team like the team at Schoolcraft College, I look forward to helping to do the right thing.”

Green said Facilities looks forward to adding more buildings to the award list.

“This is just the beginning,” he said. “The VisTaTech Center is such an important building because it’s a hub for our campus and the community. You can see we have more people here now and for them to know the air is clean offers tremendous peace of mind.”

*MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values and reports a filter’s ability to capture larger particles between 0.3 and 10 microns. A micron is one-millionth of a meter. For comparison, the average diameter of a human hair varies between 70 and 180 microns. According to the EPA, the higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at trapping specific types of particles.