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Aug 11, 2006 - one of a very few two-year programs ... Kathol ('78), NECC dean of applied technology; Larry Arens ..... with information is what this degree.
Northeast Community College

IN TOUCH Summer 2006

Spotlight on Veterinary Technician “It was the best experience I’ve ever had,” was how Emily Warrick (‘06), described her experience in the veterinary technician program at Northeast Community College. Thirteen students graduated last May with an associate of applied science degree in veterinary technology. According to Dr. Mike Cooper, program director/instructor, graduates have many employment opportunities because there is a shortage of technicians nationwide. “Veterinary technicians can work in veterinary clinics, pet stores, and kennels, and there are also positions with pharmaceutical companies, the USDA, and public and private research facilities,” said Cooper. The program isn’t just about training for a career; however, friendships are bonded during the two years of classwork as well. “I made new friendships and have new role models that showed me what kind of person I want to be,” said Warrick. “It’s a family that shares the same interest in animals and their well-being while keeping you interested and always being there to help,” she continued. April (Vogt) Dummer (‘05) echoed this experience, “I will never forget my experience at Northeast. The small class sizes gave me a very hands-on education, and the instructors really care about each student.” She went on to say, “I lived on campus both years and loved it! I met so many people and made a lot of friends that I still am close to now more than a year later.” Kerri Sederavicius, L.V.T., (‘98) also wrote of a very positive experience, “At NECC I not only received a great education, but I also met some life-long friends.” Dr. Cooper, D.V.M., has been at Northeast since 1991, and Shelli Keiser, a certified veterinary technician, started teaching at Northeast in 1996. “I had gone to several schools, but Spotlight continued on page 7

Ground broken for Utility Line/ Truck Driver Training building Northeast Community College recently broke ground on a classroom/ lab building that will help address the shortage of well-trained linemen as the industry faces massive linemen retirements. In addition, the building will provide space for the professional truck driving training program. The 36,800-square-foot building, with nine new Northeast President Dr. Bill Path speaks during the groundclassrooms/labs, six offices, breaking ceremony for the new Utility Line/Truck Driver Training building. Seated (left to right) are Neal Suntken, architect for and two mechanic’s bays, the project with Beringer-Ciaccio-Dennell-Mabrey, Inc.; Lyle will be ready for classes in Kathol (‘78), NECC dean of applied technology; Larry Arens the fall of 2007. The pre- (‘80), Nebraska Public Power District Account Manager; and engineered metal building Marlin Meisinger from Crafts, Inc., the general contractor for will include two high-vol- the project. The program of study includes sucume indoor labs to set poles and cessful completion of a 12-week coop use vehicles indoors in inclement internship working in the field between weather. the freshman and sophomore year. Northeast’s utility line program is Northeast graduates earn an associate one of a very few two-year programs of applied science degree in utility line. in the United States and attracts Upon completion of the Northeast Comstudents from all over the country. munity College program, graduates will According to Lyle Kathol, dean of have the skills needed in the installation, applied technology, there are typioperations, and maintenance of electrically 90-100 students enrolled in the cal utilities, including power poles, lines, program at any time. Currently there and equipment. are 54 other students on a waiting list Keith Harvey, who sits on the Northfor admission to the program. “We east Board of Governors and is general will be able to serve more students manager of North Central Public Power when this building is completed,” District in Creighton, Neb., is proud of he said. the partnership between public utilities and Northeast to build this facility. “We know what the future needs of our industry are,” he said. “The college and our industry have been proactive in moving together to help address those needs. In fact, over 15 public utility companies in the region have donated at least $6,000 each to the effort.” Over $300,000 has been donated or pledged to the new facility from businesses, organizations, or individuals. See Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman addressed the Class of 2006 at the 33rd page 6 for a list of alumni donors who Annual Commencement Ceremony at helped to make this building possible. Northeast Community College. A record number of 747 degrees and diplomas were awarded. Northeast President Dr. Bill Path is to the left of Governor Heineman. Stephanie Alvarez of Norfolk gave the Student Welcome while Brent Nollette of Nenzel gave the Student Address. Biology instructor Roger Gipson gave the Faculty Address.

For alumni of: Northeast Community College Northeast Technical Community College Northeast Nebraska Technical Community College Northeast Nebraska Technical College Northeastern Nebraska College Norfolk Junior College

Inside this Issue NJC grads honored................ 2 Outstanding student chosen .. 2 Blackhawks team honored .... 3 NECC-WSC make plans ....... 3 NECC bids farewell .............. 4 New staff welcomed.............. 4 Students help relief effort...... 4 LTA graduates honored ......... 5 Employees honored............... 5 Alum interviews students...... 5 Births ..................................... 6 In Memory ............................ 6 Marriages .............................. 7 Class Notes............................ 7 Grad takes classes online ...... 8

801 East Benjamin Ave. • P.O. Box 469 •Norfolk, Nebraska 68702-0469 Phone: 402-371-2020 or 800-348-9033 Fax: 402-844-7400 Web Site: www.northeastcollege.com

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Northeast Community College

Two NJC grads honored by NCCA Joya is chosen as Outstanding Student

Contact us for your research needs Library Hours Summer: Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Fall & Spring Semesters: Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Fax (Fees charged to send and receive) 402-844-7392

Web Site www.northeastcollege.com/ LS.html

Email librarian@northeastcollege. com

Services Available i Books for research and relaxation i Newspapers from local and national sites i Periodicals: journals and popular titles i Educational videos i Distance Education service i Word processing stations i Interlibrary Loan i Full Internet access

Access to Full-Text On-Line Databases: i i i i i i i

FirstSearch Electric Library Wilson Web Kiplinger Special Service Infotrac-Business, Health Facts On File Poem Finder/Short Story Finder i CQ Researcher

Two graduates of the Norfolk Junior College were honored with prestigious awards at the annual meeting of the Nebraska Community College Association (NCCA) held last winter. Long-time Northeast Board of Governors member Larry Poessnecker of Atkinson was presented the Governor’s Award while Dr. Donis Petersan, Columbus, was honored as one of the Nebraska Community College Association’s Distinguished Alumni. Poessnecker has served on the Northeast Board of Governors, representing District II of Keya Paha, Brown, Rock, Boyd, Holt, and Knox Counties in their entirety and Larry Poessnecker a portion of Cedar County since 1989. He has chaired every Board committee and served as Board chairperson in 1994 and again in 2001. He was board vice-chairperson in 1993 and 2000 and board secretary in 1999. He was also a member of the 2005 nominating committee. A 1966 graduate of Norfolk Junior College with an associate’s degree, he also has a bachelor of science degree from Peru State College and a master’s degree in educational psychology from Kearney State College. He is a former public school teacher, counselor, elementary school principal, and Northeast Community College adult education coordinator.

Donis N. Petersan, CEcD, Ph.D, attended the Norfolk Junior College in 1959 and again in 1965-1966. After earning a bachelor of science degree in business adDr. Donis Petersan ministration and a master of arts degree in economics from the University of NebraskaLincoln, he went on to earn a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Nebraska in 1984. He also served in the U.S. Navy between 1960-1964.

He began his career with Nebraska Public Power District in 1978 where he continues today as an economist. As an NPPD economist, he provides economic and economic development research support for the economic development programs and activities of NPPD and for communities and economic development organizations within NPPD’s service area. Dr. Petersan was an adjunct faculty member at the University of Nebraska-Kearney where he taught graduate and undergraduate classes in economics and quantitative methods from 1980-2001. He was employed by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development as a department deputy director, director of research, assistant director of research, and economist from 1969-1978. Throughout his career as an economist, he has authored many articles and reports and made several presentations to share his knowledge and research data.

Maria-Fernanda Joya of Wakefield was recognized as the 2006 Alumni Association Outstanding Student during the Student Achievement Awards program last spring. While pursuing a degree in preprofessional law, Joya has been named to the Dean’s List and the President’s List. She is also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, the Multicultural Club, and the Criminal Justice Club. In addition to her college activities, she volunteers in the Adult Basic Education program to help people learn English as a Second Language and is an instructor for Spanish GED at Northeast. She also volunteers at the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen and local nursing homes. According to her nomination, Fernanda, with her ever-present smile and boundless enthusiasm and energy, is an exceptional role model.

Maria-Fernanda Joya (left) was presented the 2006 Alumni Association Outstanding Student Award by Connie Sixta, alumni coordinator.

Looking to advance in your career? Need to brush up or learn a new skill? Want to learn about technology changes? Northeast Community College offers a wide variety of program options as well as many short-term training opportunities, including: • Business & Industry Training • Computer Training • Health Education • Professional Continuing Education • Special Interest Classes and Workshops

Fall semester begins August 14th – Registration now underway! Short-term classes are scheduled throughout the semester. Visit our website at www.northeastcollege.com or call 402-844-7000 or 1-800-348-9033, Ext. 7000, for more information about training opportunities!

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In Touch Alumni Newsletter

1975-76 Blackhawks inducted into Northeast Community College Athletic Hall of Fame The 1975-76 Blackhawks basketball team from Northeast Technical Community College was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame last winter. Eleven team members were present to accept the award. The team won the championship of the Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference (NCCAC) and later went on to win the National Little College Athletic Association (NLCAA) championship that year. The team finished the 1975-76 season with a 27-2 record. Members of the team and their 1975-76 hometowns included Robert Green, West Aurora, IL.; Rick Hansen, Coleridge; Dennis McCloud, Newman Grove; Bob Reeson, Gary Meyer and Gregg Meyer, all of West Point; Mark Nelson, Lincoln; Mark Olsen, Hampton; Joe Peitzmeier, Plattsmouth; Mick Samuelson, Bancroft; Neal Seagren, Wausa; Mike Sucha, Norfolk; Gary Turner, Holdrege; Kenny Vejraska, Sutton; Johnnie Johnson, Hooper, and Stan Sojka, Ewing. Several members of the team received post-season honors including

Hall of Fame Nominations Sought These members of the 1975-76 Blackhawks basketball team were present when the Blackhawk team was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Pictured in the front row, left to right (with their current city of residence) are: Mike Sucha, Lincoln; Neal Seagren, Wausa; Dennis McCloud, Newman Grove; Mark Nelson, Chandler, Ariz.; Robert Green, Oswego, Ill., and Gary Turner, Lincoln. Back row, left to right, are Mark Olsen, Hampton; Joe Peitzmeier, Ft. Calhoun; Bob Reeson, Omaha; Mick Samuelson, South Sioux City, and Rick Hansen, Omaha. The team won the National Little College Athletic Association (NLCAA) championship that year and finished the season with a 27-2 record.

Peitzmeier, who made the NLCAA All-American Team, the NLCAA National All-Tournament Team, and the Omaha World-Herald’s First Team of the Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference. Turner also made the NLCAA National All-Tournament Team and Honorable Mention on the

Omaha World-Herald’s NCCAC AllStar Team. Coach Chuck Stevenson named Peitzmeier Most Valuable Player and the Most Inspirational Player at the end of the season, while he named Vejraska Team Captain and Hansen the Most Improved Player.

Plans continue for joint Northeast Community College-Wayne State College effort Plans are also in the making to Plans continue for a joint provide courses in criminal justice, effort by Northeast Community Miller said. “With the opening College and Wayne State College of the new jail in Dakota County that will give students one more next November, we want to assist educational option in the Greater with the development of qualified Siouxland area. people to staff that facility,” she Northeast’s first full year in said. A Northeast Juvenile Justice its new 10,000-square-foot South class is planned in South Sioux Sioux City Education Center City this fall. in the Westside Business Park Other course offerings in South exceeded expectations. Officials A ribbon cutting ceremony was held last fall at the new Education Center in South Sioux City at 3309 Daniels Lane. from both Northeast and Wayne Northeast is leasing the facility until the new joint education Sioux City this fall will include State are confident of even greater site is constructed along Highway 77. Pictured (left to right) credit and noncredit computer success when the new, combined South Sioux City Chamber Ambassadors Diane Schoepf, Cheri classes, professional truck driving education site is opened. North- Larson, Gloria Oorlog, Pam Everett, and Gary Bortscheller; classes, professional development east tallied approximately 270 Sen. Matt Conneally; Dr. Bill Path, NECC President; Dr. courses like the Dale Carnegie Richard Collings, WSC President; Gov. Dave Heinemann; Sen. credit students during its first year Doug Cunningham; Sen. Pat Engel; Chamber Ambassadors and Stephen Covey courses, and Essential Conversational Spanish in the new education center. Tom Yaneff and Lois Schock; Bart Gotch, NECC Foundation When the new joint education board member, and Nanci Lingenfelter, NECC Board of classes. Northeast offers associate of site is constructed along Highway Governors member. arts degrees with a business admin77, students will take their freshIn the meantime, Northeast plans to istration or general studies/academic man- and sophomore-level courses expand its nursing program offerings in transfer emphasis and associate of from Northeast and then take junior South Sioux City this fall. According applied science degrees in administraand senior-level or graduate-level to Pam Miller, South Sioux City Edutive assistant-medical and business courses from Wayne State, all in the cation Center coordinator, Northeast management in South Sioux City. same location in South Sioux City. will offer science classes, including Two associate of arts online degree Officials from both institutions biology, chemistry, human anatomy, programs are also available in early and physiology at the Education Cencontinue to meet to evaluate possible childhood education and library techprogramming, space requirements, and ter. “We will use distance learning for nical assistant through a partnership of joint funding efforts for the combined some specialized nursing classes that all Nebraska community colleges. will access highly-qualifi ed instructors effort. from the Norfolk campus,” she said.

Nominations are being sought for the Northeast Community College Athletic Hall of Fame Award. • Criteria for selection is based primarily upon athletic achievements while a student or coach at Northeast or its predecessor colleges. • Accomplishments after leaving Northeast will also be considered. • The nominee must not have been an active NECC athlete or coach for at least five years. • Team qualifications include record, national ranking, and post-season tournament success. • Nominations must be submitted by Aug. 11, 2006. For more information, contact either Doug Brown or Deb Potts at (402)8447272.

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Northeast Community College

Northeast bids farewell to four long-time staff members Four Northeast Community College staff members retired at the end of June. Human resources director Margy Ehrenfried, administrative assistant instructor Carol Morse, architectural drafting instructor Gary Parker, and part-time athletic director Jerry Holmberg retired June 30th. Ehrenfried joined the staff of Northeast Technical Community College in 1983 as administrative assistant to then P r e s i d e n t D r. Robert P. Cox. In Margy Ehrenfried 1990, she transferred to the human resources office and became its director in 1994. Morse joined the Northeast faculty in 1975 as a secretarial science instructor after teaching two years at the Norfolk Senior High School. Carol Morse Her title changed to office technology instructor in 1994 and administrative assistant instructor in 2004. Since last fall, she has taught at Northeast’s South Sioux City Education Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays. She plans to continue as a Northeast adjunct faculty member in South Sioux City in the fall.

Parker joined the staff as an architectural drafting instructor in 1972. A native Nebraskan, he has an associate of applied science Gary Parker degree from Nebraska Vocational Technical College at Milford and a bachelor of education degree from Colorado State University at Ft. Collins, Colo. Before joining the Northeastern staff, he accumulated several years’ experience as a draftsman. He also taught at Southern Colorado State University and the Nebraska School of Technical Agriculture, operated by the University of Nebraska, at Curtis. Holmberg has served as Northeast’s AD since the Fall of 2000. Before that, he served in several positions at Northeast Community ColJerry Holmberg lege from 19781999 including director of employment services, alumni coordinator, recruiter, and Student Senate advisor. As athletic director, he oversaw the induction of the 1975-76 Blackhawks basketball team, 1948 Blackhawks football team, former coaches Judi Faunce and Dale G. Blattert, and basketball player John Redmond into the Athletic Hall of Fame. The Hall was established at Northeast in 2001 under Holmberg’s direction.

Northeast students assist in Hurricane Katrina relief They may be over 1,000 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, but several Northeast students and instructors have contributed to the Hurricane Katrina Relief efforts without leaving campus. Northeast’s heating, ventilation and air Orphan Grain Train coordinator Bernie Wrede, second from left, checked out an electrical conditioning (HVAC), panel with these Northeast Community College electrical construcinstructors. Pictured, from left, are Clayton tion and control, and McDonald, Wrede, Dan Frohberg, Mike Frank, building construction and Scott Owen. students recently fabricated an overseas shipping container for the Orphan Grain Train of Norfolk. What started as a shipping container is now a portable restroom

with 12 separate toilet facilities and a laundry room with two washer-dryer combinations. The students were guided in the project by Clayton McDonald (‘93) and Mike Frank, building construction instructors, Scott Owen, HVAC instructor, and Dan Frohberg (‘74), electrician instructor. They estimate that a total of 580 man hours went in to the fabrication project. “Projects like this are great learning tools for our students,” Owen said. “Not only do they get to improve skills in their major fields of study, but they also help others. Hopefully, they will enjoy being a part of things like this and continue community-service-type work and giving to others throughout their entire lives.”

Northeast welcomes new administrators

An educator from Tucson, Ariz., and a Norfolk native are filling key administrative positions at NECC. Sarah J. Dempsey, former assistant vice chancellor of academic services at Pima Community College, recently began her duties as the vice president of educational services. Dempsey will supervise all Northeast areas relating to instruction and instructional support services, and she will administer both credit and non-credit educational programs. Norfolk attorney David H. Ptak was hired to fill the position of executive director of human resources and general counsel. Ptak will develop and lead the college’s human resources services, including recruiting, interviewing, and evaluating job candidates, salary and wage administration, employee performance evaluation, and recognition programs. He will also provide basic legal assistance to administrative officers and the Board of Governors.

New faces join NECC staff

Northeast Community College staff has welcomed the following individuals on the staff in recent months: • Jill Armitage (‘95), admissions administrative assistant • Anne Ausdemore, director of extended learning • Mary Balaski (‘79 & 86), disability services coordinator • Doug Brown, athletic director • Shirley Buss, communications assistant • Miguel Cabarcus, HEP instructor/recruiter/assistant • Dian Edwards, off-campus student support specialist • Rich Erickson, warehouse manager • Lynette Finley, financial aid assistant • Kelly Griffith (‘92 & ‘93), cashier • Cathy Hickman, copy center/mailroom coordinator • Jodie Johnson (‘01), Business/Math/ Technology Division admin. assistant • Kathi Lenser (‘96), Lifelong Learning Center coordinator • Linda Luikens (‘05), communications assistant • Kevin Malena, lead custodian • Linda Naeve, student accounts specialist • Tiffany Pinkelman (‘97), residence life overnight support specialist • Lisa Reifenrath, advisor • Larissa Riege, distance learning classroom assistant • Heidi Snitchler, counselor • Benny Wilson, custodian • Qing Hau Yu, director of on-line instruction and Internet resources • Robert Ziegler, director of the Technology Academy of Northeast Nebraska

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In Touch Alumni Newsletter

Employees honored for excellence

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Nucor Detailing Center was held last fall at their new location in the former Vishay-Dale Electronics building in Norfolk. The center will eventually employ hundreds of detailers. Last summer Nucor provided funding to expand the drafting program at Northeast, which doubled its program to accommodate 36 new students each year. Employees of the Nucor Detailing Center who were present for the ceremony are (front row left to right): Andy Wolfe (‘03), Gary Weaver (‘06), Candace Finley, Cindy Morrow (‘78), Corey Granquist, Leah Cornett; (back row left to right): J.J. Snodgrass (‘98), Mitch McCormick, Eric Blum (‘05), Brooks Burbach (‘04), Joel Bruning (‘02), Rich Pospisil (‘93) and Jason Ternus (‘01).

Northeast students first to graduate from LTA program Three Northeast Community College students marched into the history books at graduation ceremonies in May when they became the first graduates of the Nebraska Community College system’s new Library Technical Assistant (LTA) Program. Lynn Hans and Lori Juhlin, both of Norfolk, and Jed Miller, Neligh, Three Northeast students became the first-ever graduates of the Library Technical Assistant program. Shown here are, from left, were honored by the library Debora Robertson, Northeast director of library services, Dr. staff at Northeast with an Bill Path, Northeast president, and Rod Wagner of the Nebraska Open House. State Library. LTA graduates are Lori Juhlin, second from right, The LTA program is and Lynn Hans, right. Another LTA graduate, Jed Miller, was unable to attend. a collaborative effort of Nebraska’s six community colleges. in the development of this program and Leading to an associate of arts degree, feels it has much to offer students. the program was launched in the fall of Instruction in the new program fo2004 when 22 students took an introcuses heavily on information resources ductory course through Metropolitan in all formats like electronic, print, and Community College in Omaha. Each online, services for youth, and library community college provides one or management. “Connecting people more core subject area courses onwith information is what this degree line. is about,” said Robertson. General education courses for the With the skills obtained from earndegree are completed at the student’s ing an associate of arts degree with an home campus, online, via video coursemphasis in library technical assistant, es, or at an off-campus interactive graduates are ready to develop youth distance-learning site. Financial aid and adult library programming, assist is also coordinated through the home with circulation of materials, acquire community college. and process both print and electronic The curriculum was developed by materials, budget and plan for a library community college officials and librarenvironment, and develop collections ians from across the state. Debora Robto meet the needs of the users they ertson (‘76 & ‘95), Northeast director of serve. library services, was actively involved

US Bank president Nick Leuschen presented great performer awards to four Northeast employees for their US Bank President Nick Leuschen (center) presented the US outstanding Bank Great Performance Awards to (right to left): Janet Topp, e f f o r t s i n Shirley Powers, Paul Bailey, and Karen Spray. providing a quality education to their students. Janet Topp, US Bank Great Performer Award for Classified Staff, has been on the custodial staff at Northeast since January of 1998. Bookstore manager Shirley Powers, US Bank Great Performer Award for Professional/Managerial Staff, has worked at the college for nearly 24 years and was named bookstore manager in 1998. Karen Spray (‘99), US Bank Award for Teaching Excellence, Part-time Faculty, has been an adjunct business instructor at Northeast since 2000. Paul Bailey, US Bank Award for Teaching Excellence, Full-time Faculty, has been a heating/ventilation/air conditioning instructor at Northeast since 1989.

Alum returns to interview students

Even though classes and final tests were over for the semester, several NECC broadcasting students returned to campus this summer to hone their job-interview skills. Lisa Guill (‘81), station manager of KOLN-KGIN TV, and Troy Frankforter, production manager of KOLN, conducted mock job interviews with nine broadcasting students. “The students came back for this rare opportunity even though most of them already had jobs lined up before they graduated,” John Skogstoe, broadcasting instructor, said. Guill, a former Northeast basketball player who has been at KOLN for 18 years, and Frankforter visit several college campuses and job fairs every year to meet with students and prospective employees. “This is our first visit to Northeast, but we will be back every spring from now on,” Guill said.

Every $ counts!

Northeast Community College’s increasing emphasis on reaching more residents through distance education and off-campus programming, coupled with decreased state aid, requires higher levels of funding than previously needed. There are several ways that individuals or companies can support the Northeast Community College Foundation. iEndowments iBequests iCharitable Gift Annuities iCharitable Remainder Unitrusts iLife Insurance iCash Securities, Real Estate and Other Property For more information on these charitable giving opportunities, please contact the NECC Foundation at (402) 844-7056.

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Northeast Community College

Births Utility Line/Truck Driver Training Building Alumni Donors Special thanks to the following alumni who contributed to the building fund drive: Scott & Donna Andrew John & Lori Bargstadt Anthony Beardslee Jane Becker R.J. & Lynne Bichlmeier Jared & Rachel Boggs Gerald Bohn David Brinkman Zachary Bryant Vickie Davis George Dudley Deb Ferris Dan & Nancy Frohberg Dean & Kathy Fuchser David Green Jennifer Happold Richard Hasenpflug Anthony & Karen Hoffman Peter & Randy Jardee Brenda Johnson Matt & Tanis Johnson Laminated Wood Systems, Inc. Lyle & LeaAnn Kathol Michela Keeler-Strom Dave & Ann Lund Jim & Stacie McCarville Tom & Mary McKeon Howard & Wanda Meier Tim & Janet Miller Todd & Brenda Myers Joe O’Connell Larry & Barb Oetken Steven Petersen Theron & Sarah Pierce Larry & Lois Poessnecker Gregg & Diane Reikofski Les & Josie Richmond Jim & Deb Robertson Brian & Rose Ann Rogers Keith & Linda Rohde Shawn & Miranda Sayers Greg & Judy Schindler Dean & Pam Schwartz Brad & Gigi Simonsen Steve & Connie Sixta Larry & Debb Strate Sheila Tomjack Allen & Terri Wuebben Jeffrey Uher Kyle & Tonya Voecks

Lawrence (‘85) and Jane (Schmit) Reiman (‘85) announce the birth of their daughter Lorissa Elizabeth, born Aug. 26, 2005. She was welcomed home by Jack (6), twins Jacob and Leah (15) and Jesse (18) who is enrolled in the Utility Line program at NECC. Tim Renken (‘96) and his wife, Kim, announce the birth of their daughter Hazel Edith, born July 28, 2005. She was welcomed home by sisters Hannah and Heidi and brother Harbor. Tim is a manager with Craig Pigloo and Farms part-time. Cammy (Taylor) Korth (‘97) and her husband, Joel, announce the birth of their son Chase Taylor, born Oct. 14, 2005. He weighed 8 lbs. 2 oz. and was 21.5 in. long. Brad (‘98) and Cheri (Prososki) Dudek (‘98) announce the birth of their son, Kenton Bradley, born Sept. 12, 2005. He weighed 7 lbs. 7 oz. and was 20 in. long. He was welcomed home by sister Korah (4) and brother Kaleb (3). Jeremiah (‘99) and Lisa (Poessnecker) Krysl (‘01) announce the birth of their son, Tate James, born Sept. 24, 2005. He weighed 9 lbs. 4.75 oz. and was 21 in. long. Michela Keeler-Strom (‘99) and her husband, Waylon, announce the birth of their son, Parker Michael, born Apr. 5, 2006. He weighed 9 lbs. 1 oz. and was 21.5 in. long. Mary (Boston) Dickson (‘00) and her husband, Keith, of West Point announce the birth of their daughter Brianna Nicole, born Oct. 4, 2005. She weighed 7 lbs. 15 oz. and is welcomed home by brothers Jacob (1) and Trevor (3), and sister Clarissa (16). Megan (Fox) Shearer (‘00 & ‘01) and her husband, Anthony, announce the birth of their son Brayden Anthony, born June 23, 2005. He weighed 7 lbs. 1 oz. and was 20 in. long. He was

welcomed home by sister Baylie (3). Megan is employed at Randolph Elementary School, and her husband is an engineer at Vulcraft in Norfolk. Joshua (‘01) and Elsa (Gallop) Parsons (‘01 & 02) announce the birth of their son Tysen Joshua, born Oct. 22, 2005. He weighed 9 lbs. 11 oz. and was 21.25 in. long. He was welcomed home by sister Makinzie (2) Sara (Rezac) Reiter (‘01) and her husband, Shannon, announce the birth of their daughter, Chloe Nicole, born Sept. 2, 2005. Clay (‘01) and Kristin (Brown) Teel (‘01 & ‘02) announce the birth of a son, Parker Lee, born on Oct. 7, 2005. He was welcomed home by brother Hunter Allen (2). Bradley Medina (‘03) and his fiance, April Klein, announce the birth of their daughter Bradie Belle Medina, born Mar. 15, 2005. Katrina (Henriksen) Ozenbaugh (‘03) and her husband, Mitchell, announce the birth of their son Wyatt Keith, born Sept. 7, 2005. He weighed 8 lbs. 14 oz. and was 21 in. long.

In Memory William “Bill” Gaines, Sr., of Norfolk died Mar. 14, 2006. He was a member of the NECC Foundation Board of Directors. He served as president and CEO of Vishay Dale Electronics until his retirement in 1989. Doris Oeltjen of Norfolk died in May 2006. She was a former switchboard operator at the college. Lynn Hutton, Jr., (‘47) of Norfolk died Mar. 24, 2006. He practiced law and taught business law at NJC for many years and was a member of the NECC Hall of Success. He retired from his law practice in 2005. Keith Pilger (‘49) of Canyon Lake, Calif., died Dec. 17, 2005. He worked for Hughes Air Craft and Pneu Devices, Inc., where he was program manager for the space shuttle orbiter

Graduates from the broadcasting program held a reunion last fall in conjunction with dedicating the new addition to the Cox Activities Center. The 15,540 sq. ft. addition provided 30 new rooms for use by the broadcasting, audio and recording technology, and music programs. Existing rooms in the building were remodeled during construction, and the music department expanded into space that was vacated by the audio and recording technology program. In the top picture alumni are seated in a new classroom, and in the bottom picture (left to right) Tim Meyer (‘96 & ‘99) visits with Kevin Halle (‘99) and Kim (Billings) Halle (‘98) in the new office area of the broadcasting department.

program until his retirement in 1994. During his career, he was responsible for the hydraulic circulation pumps on each of the space shuttles, and his extra pump brought Apollo 13 home. Robert “Bob” Brockhaus (‘50) of Omaha died in Dec. 2005. He served in the U.S. Army from 1955-1957 and was a licensed funeral director for 44 years, retiring in 1994. Gordon Gentzler (‘52) of Tekamah died Dec. 26, 2005. He was a teacher and basketball coach at Tekamah High School. While he was a student at NJC, he played quarterback and was team captain of the 1951 football team. Veronica (Lile) Paustian (‘54) of Bloomfield died Nov. 29, 2005. She and her husband, Raymond, farmed near Bloomfield and most recently she worked as a home health aide and operated a home day care until her retirement in 1993. Orville Reeves (‘58) of Wood River died May 30, 2006. While he was a student at Norfolk Junior College, he played center for the football team and was the Golden Gloves Heavy Weight Boxing Champion. He worked as an advertising staff artist for numerous newspapers over his career. Mildred Sloan (‘70) of Norfolk died Jan. 30, 2006. She worked for Bryan Memorial Hospital in Lincoln until 1989 when she moved back to Norfolk. Jim Duncan (‘74) of Norfolk died Nov. 9, 2005. He worked as a system analyst for Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company and served on the Information Technology Advisory Committee for NECC. Kim Baker (‘76) of Wayne died Nov. 28, 2005. He was the owner/operator of Melodee Lanes in Wayne. Byron Thompson (‘76) of Hartington died Nov. 27, 2005. He worked for Konken Equipment and Gerry Miller Implement in Hartington on a parttime basis in addition to farming. Prior to attending college, he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam Era for four years. Kim (Rabe) Donahey (‘80) of Wisner died Jan. 1, 2006. Most recently she worked at the First National of Omaha-Wayne Service Center in Wayne. Ronald Gobel (‘92) of Crofton died May 6, 2006. He worked for Heine Electric and Irrigation of Hartington. Angie (Qualset) Bennett (‘93 & ‘00) of Tilden died in Apr. 2006. She was employed as an RN at Surgicenter of Norfolk. Jennifer Lord-Bond (‘03 & ‘04) of Grand Island died Apr. 17, 2006. She was a medical transcriptionist.

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In Touch Alumni Newsletter

Marriages Mindy Heimes (‘00) to Jason Peitzmeier, both of Omaha Jill Switzer (‘00) to Monte Lueking, both of Norfolk Curtis Vanness (‘00) of Wausa to Kay Bruna of Hanover Kari Bartels (‘01) to Toby Gall, both of Yankton, SD Shane Fiscus (‘01) of Sioux Falls, SD to Ellen Weber of Plymouth, MN Brandy Hinz (‘01) to Tyler Grossart, both of Lincoln Doug Oberhauser (‘01) of Lindsay to Abbie Hallgren of Newman Grove Kent Peters (‘01) to Jenny Hoelscher, both of Pierce Nicholas Rohde (‘01) to Rebecca Bauer (‘05), both of Norfolk Karrie Engel (‘02) of Grand Island to Shahveer Challa of Houston, TX Jeremy Greving (‘02) of Chapman to Amy Pospichal (‘02) of Bassett Nathan Huse (‘02) to Alicia Gothier, both of Omaha Ben Kratochvil (‘02) to Marcy Schroeder, both of Norfolk Joseph Sauser (‘02) of Neligh to Jennifer Wieseler of Leigh Casey Schantz (‘02) to Justin Bellar, both of Wisner Travis Shively (‘02) to Amy Cox, both of Albion Alisha Hartl (‘03) of Stanton to Chance Claussen of Pierce Amy Herbolsheimer (‘03) to Keith Hurlbert, both of Humphrey Kerry Kopecky (‘03) of O’Neill to Deborah Schweers (‘03) of Beemer Josh Krysl (‘03) to Melissa Slaymaker, both of Atkinson Kayla Macklin (‘03) to Andrew Detlefsen (‘04), both of Laurel Joanna Van Slyke (‘03) to Joshua Rayford, both of Lincoln

Michael Cleveland (‘05) of Norfolk April Vogt (‘05) of Utica to Dustin Drummer of Bonesteel, SD Kayla Erwin (‘06) to Erik Haglund, both of Wakefield Larry Tienken (‘80) to Linda Niles (‘90), both of Pierce Greg Schaecher (‘83) of Colleyville, TX to Mary Smyth of Euless, TX Douglas Ruzicka (‘93) to Nichole Blanchard, both of North Bend Jeff McKeown (‘96) to Sarah Storjohann, both of Lincoln Seth Mares (‘97) to Megan DeBower, both of Schuyler

Class Notes

Allen Boelter (‘64), was Team Captain of the Omaha Securities America Sr. Hoops team. The 5X5 basketball team won the Gold Metal at the 2005 Huntsman World Senior Games played in St. George, Utah. The team finished the six-team Round Robin Tournament with a perfect 5-0 record. Boelter was a two-year letterman in football, basketball, and track at NJC. Randy Mittelstaedt (‘74) is the District Sales Manager for Star Building Systems, one of the top five manufacturers worldwide of steel structures. He has been #1 in sales nationally for three years running and #1 in the Central Region four times in the last five years. He said, “I feel my education at Northeast has given me a solid foundation attributing to my success.” Janice (Luft) Wright (‘75) is enjoying retirement and her 12 grandchildren. Mary (Mickelson) Ahrenholtz (‘76) was named to Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers. She has been teaching for 20 years, and the last 17 of those years have been in special education. She has also coached middle school and high school cheerleading for the last nine years. Prior to teaching, Mary was a secretary at NECC.

internship in the summer of 2005 at Thramer, which is a Valley dealership that services all makes of irrigation systems. Emmalene Raasch (‘06) was the only female graduate from the electronics program in 2006. She is the daughter of Viola McShannon (‘85 & ‘88). Spotlight continued from page 1 when I came to NECC, I knew I had found the right one,” wrote Sederavicius. “My teachers had enough faith in me to give me responsibilities that others didn’t have. I was extremely prepared for this career and have worked my way up the ladder quickly.” Sederavicius is currently studying to be a Certified Companion Animal Massage Therapist and a Certified Companion Animal Behaviorist and plans to implement these skills into her veterinary technician career to provide more business for her clinic and to help animals and their owners.

Let your classmates know what you’ve been doing. Use the form below to mail your information or submit your information on-line at the address on the form for the next issue of In Touch.

Dummer now works at the Animal Clinic in Hastings, which employs six doctors and four technicians. She said, “Without the education I received in the veterinary technician program, I would not be able to have this job and do what I love everyday!” To make the learning experience even more positive for future students, the veterinary classrooms and labs are undergoing extensive remodeling this summer. An open house will be held this fall to show off the remodeled facilities.

Alumni Update Form Please help us keep our records up-to-date. If you have moved or changed your name recently, fill out this form and mail it to the address below or complete and submit the form on the Web at https://www.northeastcollege.com/AF/Alumni/news_update.php Also, if you have any news you’d like to share, i.e., marriage, birth, promotion, awards, etc., mail this completed form to the address below. We will include your news in the Class Notes section of the next newsletter. Name ______________________________________________________

Adam Krienert (‘04) to Kelsi Warneke, both of Fremont

Thomas Real (‘81) graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering in Dec. 2005. He is currently working at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Wash., as an Industrial Engineer.

Christina Plessel (‘04) to Ryan King, both of O’Neill

Casey Armstrong (‘99) is a photojournalist at KPTM-FOX in Omaha.

Phone _____________________________________________________

Christopher Prauner (‘04) of Battle Creek to Kendra Lozano of Wayne

Jeremy Gamez (‘04) recently won second place in the Best Radio Show - Small Market competition sponsored by the Wyoming Association of Broadcasters. His show, “Hip Hop Homework Hour,” is broadcast weekly on KZEW-FM in Wheatland, Wyo.

was mailed to.

Heath Harrison (‘04) of Norfolk to Constance Menke (‘05) of Lawrence

Tony Wragge (‘04) of Hastings to Melissa Voelker of Grand Island Camille Clausen (‘05) of Norfolk to Michael Woodbury of Lincoln Nicholas Novak (‘05) of Bancroft to Katie Breitkreutz of Wisner Morgan Schultze (‘05) of Osmond to

Cody Frank (‘06) is working for Thramer Irrigation in Ewing as a service technician. He also did his cooperative

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Please check if this is a name change. Address: ___________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: _______________________________________________ Email Address: ______________________________________________

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Alumni news you’d like to share: _______________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Mail to: NECC Alumni Office, P.O. Box 469, Norfolk, NE 68702-0469

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Grad takes all but two courses away from campus Wherever you go, Northeast Community College is there.

Employment Assistance From Career Services We invite alumni to... • Contact our office to list jobs and recruit qualified candidates for job openings in your business. • Contact our office when you are looking for new employment opportunities. We offer employment assistance to all graduates. Rose Ann Rogers Coordinator Student Career Services Northeast Community College 801 E. Benjamin Ave. P.O. Box 469 Norfolk, NE 68702-0469 (402) 844-7263 roseann@ northeastcollege.com www.neccjobs.com

Just ask Diane (Jelinek) Teadtke, formerly of Verdigre and now of Colorado Springs, Colo. She’ll tell you that thanks to Northeast classes available on the Diane Teadtke Internet, she has completed her associate of arts degree in behavioral science from Colorado Springs. She got her degree by taking only two classes, aerobic fitness and lifetime wellness, on the campus in Norfolk. She has completed 22 courses online. A graduate of Verdigre High School, she began taking Northeast classes in the Fall of 2004 while still living in Verdigre. She commuted to the Norfolk campus twice a week to take her two classes. The remainder of her course work was taken online. “I received a scholarship to take an online class and thought, ‘Why not try it?’” That started her journey through online instruction.

“I really enjoyed taking classes online,” she said. “I did miss the classroom experience, but by taking classes online, I could work around my schedule. During my first year of college, I was working two jobs, planning a wedding, and going to school full-time. I couldn’t have done that without the flexibility of online instruction. I did my class work at night.” Following her wedding last October to Trevor Teadtke, she moved to Colorado Springs where he is stationed in the U.S. Army. She continued to take Northeast classes online and completed her work for her degree while working a full-time job as a receptionist at an engineering company. She now plans to enroll at the University of Phoenix in Colorado Springs and hopes to eventually earn a master’s degree in psychology. “I may even get a doctorate,” she said. “I eventually want to become a counselor and start my own practice.” “I found all the reading to be the most challenging thing about online classes,” she said. “It is a lot different than going to the classroom because you don’t get

the chance to hear the lectures. There was a lot of extra work because of it.” But she is thankful for the opportunity to complete her associate’s degree from Northeast via the Internet. “There would be no way I could have completed my education without this alternative way. Without it, I would have had to transfer to a different college here in Colorado.” She not only applauds the method of course delivery, she also is appreciative of her Northeast instructors. “They were great,” she said. “My public speaking instructor was very generous in allowing me time to get a video camera to record my speaking assignments.” Northeast Community College is offering more than 50 courses online this fall in several different subject areas including general education, business, and computer training. For a list of courses, visit the Northeast website at www.northeastcollege.com and either access the complete course list through HawkNET or click on Credit Class Schedule and then Online Classes. You may also contact the Registrar’s Office at (402) 844-7265 or 1-800-348-9033, ext. 7265, for more information.