Spring Break
The largest student-lobbying group that affects every student, American Student Association of Community Colleges (ASACC), celebrated its 25th year at a recent conference, and it started here at MATC, with Jerry O'Sullivan considered its founder. According to O'Sullivan, Student Life Coordinator at the West Allis Campus, there were other organizations before ASACC, but they were more focused on social issues.
Beginning August 3, 2009, all returning students will need to get new student ID cards. A change in banking relationships and an effort to simplify paying for parking at the Bradley Center's parking structure has led to this decision. There will be no additional cost for this.
Many community colleges are struggling to create new courses and programs in the area of Renewable Energy and Environmental Sciences in order to accommodate the growing unemployed workforce. Additionally, many high school graduates might be uncertain about their futures.
Students have lost one of their allies recently when Theresa Barry decided it was time to move on. Barry, Vice President of Student Services, left on good terms after working at MATC for over 20 years. She had been Vice President of Student Services since 2003.
Government grants may soon help recently displaced workers get the skills they need to compete in today's job market. Recently, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan was at MATC to announce a $7 million special competitive grant that states, such as Wisconsin, can apply for.
In an attempt to ensure funding for students, the Department of Education, with the support of various acts, has decided to take more control over student loans. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan has awarded companies contracts to control student loans, according to a White House Press Release.
On May 15, the MATC Athletic Department had their Annual Gala Stormers Athletic Awards. Trisha Maurer (Women's Volleyball captain), who also won the Athlete Director's Award, did a great job as a Master of Ceremonies. But the big winner of the night was Yanette Feagin, who won eight awards and was presented with an honorable mention for her great job with women's basketball.