PTK Answers the Question: 'Where Are You Wearing?'

Ever wonder who made the socks you’re wearing? Ever wonder how much it cost to make your favorite shirt? Snead State Community College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa has not only researched the answers to those questions; they are also informing students about “Where Are You Wearing?”

Each year the Phi Theta Kappa national organization selects a topic for a study project that’s referred to as the Honors in Action project. The purpose of the program is to encourage lifelong learning and allow members to explore real world issues. Members are given a topic, and it is their responsibility to research and create an event that brings attention to the topic.

This year’s Honors in Action topic addresses the economy, so the PTK officers decided to develop a “Where Are You Wearing” project that sheds light on the origin of the clothing people wear such as where the clothing was made, how much was spent to make the clothing, and how much the worker was paid to make the clothing. The group presented the information to Snead students on Dec. 7.

“The program is based off of economics relevant to our everyday economic standing,” said Director of Campus Engagement Brittany Wilborn, who also serves as the PTK sponsor. “The officers chose this particular program because they were curious to learn about the origin of their clothes. They were amazed with what they learned.”

Phi Theta Kappa strives to maintain a five-star chapter status with the national organization, and completing an Honors in Action project is one requirement to meet the status. Last year, the group’s Honors in Action project was a political forum, which earned them an award at the PTK Regional Conference.

 Currently, the group is raising money to cover expenses to the regional and international conferences in the spring. They also plan to participate in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in the spring.

Phi Theta Kappa has recognized academic excellence in the two-year college since 1918 and has become the largest and the most prestigious honor society serving two-year colleges around the world. To become a member of the Phi Theta Kappa one must have completed a minimum of 12 hours and have a 3.5 GPA.

The 2011-2012 officers are President Hannah Jimmerson, Vice President of Leadership Zach Fraiser, Vice President of Scholarships Colton Campbell, and Vice President of Fellowship Seth Harbison.

Snead State Concert Choir Performs at ACDA Choral Festival

The Concert Choir

The Concert Choir from Snead State Community College participated in the Alabama chapter of the American Choral Directors Association Collegiate Choral Festival on Nov. 10.

The group was one of 18 groups representing two and four-year colleges and universities from North and Central Alabama. The Festival is open to any college choirs whose directors are members of the American Choral Directors Association.

The Festival was held at the Canterbury United Methodist Church in Mountain Brook. The group performed William Billings Easter Anthem and Bradley Harris’ arrangement of “How Can I Keep from Singing” for Dr. Lori Hetzel, who is on the music staff at the University of Kentucky.

“The Festival is an opportunity for the choirs to perform for each other. In the morning session, we had nine choirs, so around 200 to 300 collegiate choral singers plus another possible 50 people heard and enjoyed our program,” said Director Sara Markham.

The Concert Choir is comprised of both music majors and non-majors from Snead State. Anyone can join the choir, which meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 p.m.

Lady Parsons Finish Fourth in State

2011 Lady Parsons Volleyball Team

The Snead State Community College volleyball team wrapped up its 2011 season over the weekend at the Alabama Community College Conference State Championship at Gadsden State. The Lady Parsons finished fourth in the State.

“I am incredibly proud of how my girls playing during the tournament and how they finished the season,” said Coach Lisa Murray. They played with so much heart and determination. We finished 21-12 – the current program best for Snead State. This was really a great group of girls, and they achieved a lot during this season.”

During the tournament, the Lady Parsons defeated Faulkner State and Wallace Selma 3-0 but suffered a 3-0 loss to Wallace Hanceville during game two. The Parsons were defeated 3-2 in a tight final match against Faulkner State.

Snead State vs. Faulkner State (Snead 3-0)

Match Scores: 25-23, 25-16, 25-15

• Sophomore Kali Lake of Addison – 24 assists, 9 digs, and one ace
• Sophomore Katelin Gray of Guntersville – 16 digs
• Freshman Courtney Redington of Guntersville – 13 digs
• Sophomore Justina Craft of New Hope – eight kills, one block
• Freshman Bailey Gamble of Grant – eight kills, one block
• Freshman Adele Woodall of Guntersville – five kills, one block
• Sophomore Kirsten Croghan of Boaz – four blocks, five kills

Snead State vs. Wallace Hanceville (Wallace Hanceville 3-0)

Match Scores: 26-24, 25-17, 25-21

• Kali Lake – 20 assists, six digs, and one ace
• Katelin Gray – 16 digs
• Courtney Redington – 18 digs
• Justina Craft – eight digs, five kills
• Bailey Gamble – 5 kills, 3 blocks
• Adele Woodall – 11 kills, 3 blocks

Snead State vs. Wallace Selma (Snead 3-0)

Match Scores: 25-16, 25-17, 25-15

• Kali Lake – 27 assists, two digs
• Katelin Gray – eight digs
• Courtney Redington – five digs
• Justina Craft – three kills, four digs
• Bailey Gamble – six kills
• Adele Woodall – ten kills
• Kirsten Croghan – four kills

Snead State vs. Faulkner State (Faulkner 3-2)

Match Scores: Snead 25-16, 25-20 and Faulkner 25-21, 26-24, 15-11

• Kali Lake – 33 assists, 11 digs, three blocks, three digs
• Katelin Gray – 29 digs
• Courtney Redington – 20 digs
• Freshman Jamie Blair of Addison – 10 digs
• Justina Craft – nine digs, six kills
• Bailey Gamble – eight kills, four digs, four blocks
• Adele Woodall – 13 kills, three blocks
• Sophomore Kaylea McGuire of Fayette – four kills, three blocks
• Freshman Lydia Vick of Moulton– six kills
• Kirsten Croghan – three kills, three blocks

Following the tournament, four Lady Parsons were named to the All-Region First Team: Adele Woodall, Kali Lake, Bailey Gamble and Katelin Gray. Justina Craft was named to the All-Region Second Team. Kali Lake and Adele Woodall were also named to the All-Tournament Team.

“Not only have these athletes excelled on the court, but they are also excelling in the classroom,” said Athletic Director Mark Richard. “On this year’s team, there are seven sophomores, and every one of them is on track to graduate this spring or this summer. They have a combined grade point average of 3.62. This not only shows their hard work and dedication to our volleyball program but to completing their degree as well.”

Welcome to the New Human Resources Director

It has been a period of adjustment for Arlene Brown since she began her position as Human Resources Director for Snead State Community College.

Ms. Brown began Nov. 1 in the position left vacant by the retirement of HR Specialist Barbara Kilpatrick. The Auburn University at Montgomery graduate earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in August 2007. Two months later she was hired by Jefferson State Community College as a personnel specialist. She moved from Jeff State to Snead State as advancement to her career in Human Resources.

“I am thankful I had a great boss while I was at Jeff State. She was great to keep me informed on different aspects of HR, and that helped to prepare me to step into the job at Snead State,” she said.

She also recently earned her Master of Business Administration from AUM to add to her qualifications for the Director position. Her challenge has been learning the administrative software used by Snead – Alliant, but she has experience using the software that Snead will be implementing in the near future – Banner.

“Because I worked in the two-year college system, I am already familiar with the policies and procedures. I am also familiar with the Students First Act, but I still have some aspects of the Human Resources position that I need to learn,” she said.

Ms. Brown said she applied at Snead because not only did it give her the opportunity to move her human resources career to the next level, but also give her a job in a comfortable setting. Snead allowed her to stay in the two-year community college system. She worked in a four-year institution for a couple of years and immediately noticed a different atmosphere than the community college environment.

“Community colleges have a different atmosphere. The staff feels like family,” said Ms. Brown.

With the adjustment of learning her new role, Ms. Brown is anxious to meet and get to know her co-workers. She has already encouraged them to stop by, introduce themselves, and offer questions or suggestions they may have about the Human Resources office.

Snead State Hosts Visit from Alabama Leadership Academy

Twenty participants with the 2011-2012 Alabama Leadership Academy visited Snead State Community College on Thursday, Dec. 1.

Snead President Dr. Robert Exley and members of the President’s Cabinet provided an overview of key initiatives at the College including the development and implementation of the Campus Master Plan, the Strategic Planning process, and the development of the Student Success and Career Center (SSCC@SSCC).

“The Alabama Leadership Academy involves up-and-coming leaders in community college education. We appreciate the opportunity to share with them our efforts to promote student success through our planning process and our programs,” said Dr. Exley.

The group toured the Norton Social Sciences Building and the SSCC@SSCC before dining in the cafeteria.

Established in 2000, the Alabama Leadership Academy is co-sponsored by the University of Alabama Colleges of Continuing Studies and Education in cooperation with the Alabama Community College System, the University of Alabama System, and the Alabama Commission on Higher Education.  The mission of the Alabama Leadership Academy is to prepare community college leaders by enhancing their leadership and management skills for an environment of change and to promote active partnership within postsecondary education.

Two New Student Surveys are Underway

In an effort to improve services to students, Snead State Community College is asking students who are currently enrolled at the college to participate in two surveys.

Survey on Blackboard Learn 9.1

Blackboards Learn is Snead State’s Learning Management System.  It is used to support all courses taught at the college, not just online classes.  The College has migrated to the latest version of Blackboard Learn, the world leader in Learning Management Systems.  Students are encouraged to take this brief survey to provide feedback so that the system can be improved.  To access the Blackboard Learn Survey, use this URL:

http://tinyurl.com/SneadBbSurveyF2011

Financial Aid Survey

Most Snead State students attend with the assistance of some form of Financial Aid.  The College has made significant changes in terms of how they advise and process students seeking aid, such as Pell Grants, Veterans Affairs funding or scholarships.  Students can assist the College’s efforts to continue improvement in Financial Aid by answering questions in this brief survey.

http://tinyurl.com/SneadFASurveyF2011

Check out these classes for the Fall Mini II term

Important Dates and Deadlines

●The deadline to withdraw from a Mini I course is Thursday, September 29^th.

●The deadline to withdraw from a full-term fall course is Thursday, November 10^th.

□Withdrawal requests must be in writing and submitted to the Office of Student Services prior to the deadline. 

□Students who withdraw from courses receive a grade of “W.”

□Students who do not withdraw prior to the deadline will receive the grade earned in the course (A, B, C, D, F).

□Please note that excessive withdrawals negatively affect financial aid eligibility.

□The 60% mark of the full-term semester is Tuesday, October 25^th.  Students are not considered to have fully “earned” federal financial aid unless they have participated in courses beyond this date.  Complete withdrawals prior to this date may result in students being required to repay a portion of federal funds.

Mini II Courses (begin October 13^th)

Students are encouraged to add courses to their schedules for Mini II as soon as possible via SSCC Online registration.  The term begins October 13^th.  It offers an opportunity for students to gain additional hours and get closer to earning a degree.

Take time to look over the attached file to see all of the course offerings for Mini II.

Here are a few suggestions to get you started…

●If you need a fine arts course, both Music Appreciation (MUS101) and Theatre Appreciation (THR120) are available.

●REL100, SPA101, SPH107 are being offered for those needing a humanities course.

●If you are looking for a literature course, American Literature I (ENG251) will be taught at the Arab site. The only prerequisite to this course is ENG102.

●Did you know that there is an English Composition I (ENG101) section available on Monday afternoons? This is just one of many options.

●Of course, there are also options available for those needing math or history classes.

●Are you trying to enroll in a lab science? BIO103 is on the schedule but needs more people to register in order for the class to remain for Mini II.

●I know several students were disappointed that the psychology classes filled up so quickly for the full-term. As a result, a section of PSY200 will be offered on Monday nights.

●Some students prefer to take courses online. Intro to Spanish I (SPA101) and Theatre Appreciation (THR120) are on the Mini II schedule.

And, finally, a few suggestions regarding courses that will count as electives in Area V of the general education major.  We encourage students to register for these courses for personal enrichment.

●ART176 (Film Making): this course is being taught by Dr. Miller, Snead’s Chief Academic Officer. It is rare that you will ever see Dr. Miller on campus without his camera. Thus, this class is one not to miss as Dr. Miller shares his expertise in the subject.

          ●CIS146 (Multimedia for the World Wide Web)

●PED100 (Fundamentals of Fitness): Wow! What a great way to take care of your health and get college credit at the same time!

It is important that you register for Mini II courses SOON!

Snead State Hosts Constitution Day Event

The community is invited to attend a special Constitution Day event hosted by Snead State Community College.

The event will be Monday, Sept. 19, at 10:30 a.m. in the Student Union Building on the Boaz campus.

To honor the signing of the historical document, History Instructor Grover Kitchens will read the preamble to the Constitution and share historical background on Benjamin Franklin’s role at the Constitutional Convention.

The event will also feature Speech Instructor Johnny Brewer, who will deliver excerpts from Franklin’s final speech to the Convention.

Officially Sept. 17, Constitution Day commemorates the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution by 39 men in 1787, recognizing all, who are born in the U.S.
or by naturalization, have become citizens.

Arab Center Completes Expansion with Help from the City

When the City of Arab received a grant, the money was put to use in renovating a previously-unused section of one of the city’s valuable assets – the Snead State Community College Arab Center.

Completed on Aug. 31, the project included the development of an approximately 3,000 square foot build-out as well as the asphalt pad for a 20-car parking lot. The $60,000 project took approximately two months to complete.

“The build-out gives the Arab Center a functional location to host City or Chamber events, to hold large group study sessions for Arab and Brindlee Mountain High Schools, and to host College-related events,” said Arab Center Director Rick Cartegena.

The renovation to the Center is just an indication of continued growth for the instructional site. Within the last year, the Arab Center has experienced a 30 percent growth in enrollment. A recent grant allowed the College to purchase a human simulator to enhance the RN Program offerings at the Center.

“The Arab Center has tremendous potential to impact the surrounding area. We are continuing to identify ways to enhance the opportunities available at the Center, and we appreciate the support of the City of Arab in our endeavors,” said President Dr. Robert Exley.

Anyone wanting to see the new expansion first-hand is invited to attend a fundraising event scheduled at the Arab Center on Thursday, Oct. 6. The Alumni Association is hosting an Arab Dinner and a Show with the proceeds benefiting the Alumni Scholarship Fund. Tickets are $15 and are available at the Arab Center and at the Alumni House on the Boaz campus.

For more information about the opportunity available at the Arab Center, call (256) 931-3790.

Snead State Hosts Special Concert

The South American duo, Lopez Tabor, will be in concert at Snead State Community College on Tuesday, Sept. 27, at 7 p.m. at the Bevill Center Concert Hall.

Members of the duo are Alfonso Lopez, violinist, and Dr. Michelle Tabor, pianist. They have performed together in the United States and Venezuela since 2004. In Caracas, South America, the duo has performed in prominent chamber music series and festivals such as Pro Musica de Camara, the Friedman Festival of Chamber Music, and the Association of Cultural Humboldt.

Mr. Lopez lives in Caracas and is the concertmaster of the Venezuela Symphony Orchestra. He is also a professor of violin at the Emil Friedman School and is also a composer and conductor. He attended the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan and completed his Bachelor and Master degrees from the University of Michigan. He has performed with various orchestras, in international festivals, and as a soloist on several occasions. He is a founding member and first violinist of the Friedman String Quartet. Outside of Venezuela, he has concertized in Spain, Italy, the United States, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Dr. Tabor grew up in Caracas and now lives in Tallahassee, Fla. She holds Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees in piano and theory from Tulane University, the University of Denver, and Florida State University, respectively. She has pursued her research interest in Latin American art music of the 20^th Century and has published and presented research papers, articles, lectures, and recitals in numerous countries. Since 2000, she has concentrated more on performing and has presented tours across the southeastern United States and at the national and regional meetings of the College Music Society.

The concert is free to the public. For more information, visit the duo’s website at http://www.lopeztaborduo.embarqspace.com/. You may also call 256.840.4145.

Avoid the 'Freshman 15' with a PE class at Snead State

What is the Freshman 15?College students weight gain their first semester (or year) of college is associated with the term "Freshman 15". College freshman are at the highest risk to gaining weight when beginning college due to severe lifestyle change.

How to Avoid the Freshman 15
Avoiding the Freshman 15 is simple: eat healthy foods and exercise! Let's face it, we are all guilty of eating junk food. It is much easier to eat from the (very fattening) dollar menu or cafeteria, rather than going to the grocery store, buying several ingredients, and preparing a healthy meal. Many college students keep unhealthy snacks in their dorm, eat late at night, go out and eat too often, and drink excessive amounts of alcohol. It is so easy to slip into unhealthy habits, so what can you do to avoid the freshman 15? To avoid the freshman 15, try keeping healthy snacks in your dorm, eat grilled food when you go out rather than fried, and above all else, exercise.

Most people want to stay fit and set up an exercise plan to achieve this goal. We all reach a point where we don't feel like exercising at our designated time, so we put it off. Many continue to be lazy until they stop exercising altogether. Don't put yourself in a weight loss situation that you can easily give up on; take a P.E. class at SSCC!

SSCC P.E. Classes
Beginning in October SSCC will offer the following P.E. classes:
03653 PED 100 Fund of Fi M&W 10:30A 12:45P GYM
03653 PED 104 Weight Tra TBA TBA GYM
03656 PED 119 Gen Con TBA TBA GYM

Physical Education classes at Snead State Community College will help you balance your diet with exercise. It will help you maintain an exercise plan you can't give up on. Don't be another statistic. Avoid the freshman 15, and take a P.E. class at SSCC!

Registration for these classes is now! So don't wait!

For more blog posts written by Snead students, visit the SneadLines blog site at http://www.sneadlinespub.blogspot.com/.

Presidential Scholars Reach New Heights

Eighteen students from Snead State Community College set off on an adventure to Berry College in Rome, Ga., as part of a retreat for the 2011-2012 Presidential Scholars. 

The group departed Aug. 11 as freshmen and sophomores who didn’t know each other very well. They returned Aug. 13 as a team ready to tackle their leadership roles as Presidential Scholars.

“Being named a Presidential Scholar is one of the most prestigious honors for students at Snead State,” said President Dr. Robert Exley. “The Presidential Scholars not only received full tuition scholarships, but they set the standard for educational excellence for all of our students. To enhance their experience at Snead State, we open leadership opportunities for them such as this retreat to Berry College.”

The students participated in Berry College’s outdoor challenge course called BOLD, which incorporates lessons in communication and decision making, leadership formation, team effectiveness, group identity, and conflict resolution.

The BOLD challenge course is an extensive, nationally renowned course that includes a variety of both low and high ROPES experiences.  ROPES stands for “reality oriented physical exercise system.”  The scholars began the experience on Thursday afternoon with an excellent orientation to both the BOLD program and an introduction to the history of Martha Berry and Berry College.  On Friday, the students completed a custom-designed experience beginning with several ground-based low elements and culminating with an extended set of high elements – some as much as 35-40 feet off of the ground.  Each participant learns the importance of teamwork, problem-solving, encouragement and persistence. 

Charlie Potter, a second year Presidential Scholar, spoke of the value of the experience in that he pushed himself to be more of a leader this year by challenging himself more physically and accepting more responsibility as a leader within the group.  The entire group spoke of their desire to make a difference in the lives of others at Snead State Community College this year.

In addition to the retreat, Presidential Scholars will also participate in Snead State-sponsored projects such as providing tutoring services through the new Student Success and Career Center.  Brittany Wilborn, Director of Campus Engagement, and Lindsey Beck, College Recruiter, accompanied the scholars and fully participated in the program.

“The experience that, not only students, but I personally gained from participating in this program is life changing. We achieved goals that seemed unimaginable,” said Ms. Wilborn.

Presidential Scholars must have a minimum 23 ACT score and a grade point average of 3.75 to receive the Presidential Honors Scholarship. However, the group of first-time scholars participating this year averages nearly 27 on the ACT and have an average GPA of 4.04.

This year, Snead State has 19 Presidential Scholars, including Cassandra Upton of Boaz, Holly Scott of Boaz, Jordan Shelton of Union Grove, Brianna Pullen of Sardis, Hannah Jimmerson of Boaz, Chelsey Gillilan of Boaz, Phillip Estes of Albertville, Landon Naylor of Sardis, Charlie Potter of Boaz, Brady Keel of Boaz, Ashley Clontz of Albertville, Kelsey Hawkins of Holly Pond, Keelie Wilkes of Collinsville, Elizabeth Shaw of Douglas, Erin Kelley of Arab, Ashley Gilbreath of Boaz, Jade Sanders of Albertville, Jessica Reece of Boaz, and Chera Whitney of Guntersville.

Snead State & Athens Form Collaborative Program for Religion



Athens State University and Snead State Community College entered into an articulation agreement regarding the transfer of students between the two institutions.  The articulation agreement allows students to have an uninterrupted transfer of the Associate’s Degree from Snead State to the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religion at Athens State.



“We’re excited to offer this new opportunity for our students,” said Snead President Robert Exley.  “With Snead State and Athens both part of the Alabama Community College System, the partnership is a logical move that provides a seamless transition for our students who wish to transfer to Athens to earn their bachelor’s degree.  I foresee the development of the Religious Studies articulation program as the first of many occasions where Snead and Athens will join together to enhance learning for students.”

The associate’s degree is received by completing a course of study at Snead State to include History of World Religions, Survey of the Old Testament, Survey of the New Testament, and Introduction to Preaching Ministry.  Upon completion of these courses, students would matriculate to Athens State as a junior to complete the required coursework for a bachelor’s degree.



“Athens State has, since its inception, offered a curriculum option to serve students with an interest in the study of religion,” stated President Bob Glenn.  “This agreement with Snead State may be a launching pad, for both institutions, towards a more in-depth focus on the creation of specialized bachelor’s degrees.”

“I am delighted to be able to extend our partnership between our schools with this agreement. We have a wonderful relationship, and is another step we can take together for the benefit of students,” said Snead State’s Chief Academic/Student Services Officer Dr. Larry Miller.

The collaborative degree program is set to begin with the fall 2011 semester just now commencing at Snead State.  For more information, call 256-840-4125 or email:  djwatts@snead.edu.

Representatives from Snead State Community College and Athens State University met Thursday, Aug. 18, to sign the official articulation agreement to offer a collaborative program in Religion. On hand for the signing were, from left, seated, Dr. Robert Exley of Snead State Community College and Dr. Bob Glenn of Athens State University; standing, Religion Instructor Dr. Jonathan Watts and Chief Academic/Student Services Officer Dr. Larry Miller of Snead State, and Dr. Clarence Johnson, Dr. Tony Moyers and Dr. Robby White of Athens State.

Follow these instructions to register for fall classes

Internet Explorer Version 5 or Higher is REQUIRED to use the SSCC Online Registration website.

Step One

Access SSCC Online Registration.

Step Two
1. Enter your student number. Your student number is assigned by the Student Services Office.
2. Enter your PIN number. The PIN is a six-digit number. Students using their birthday should use the MMDDYY formatting. If you have changed your PIN, it will NOT be changed back to your birthday. Note: All students must see an advisor prior to online registration before their PIN is activated. Special dates are outlined for student advising sessions each semester. Please refer to the interactive course schedule for student advising sessions. Students who have problems with their PIN should contact the Student Services Office at (256) 840-4107 or studentservices@snead.edu. 3. Please Sign In or Cancel.Step Three
From the menu, you may select any of the following options:
* COURSE SCHEDULE LOOKUP - View course offerings online.
* PRE-REGISTRATION (Pay Charges) - This is the pre-registration section. Once you have pre-registered and paid your tuition for the upcoming semester, it will appear as DROP/ADD.
* PAY CHARGES FROM PRIOR TERM - Pay prior outstanding fees using the payment methods indicated in Step Five. If you need to pay your tuition, you must go through the registration process and select "calculate charges." This will take you to the payment options for paying your tuition.
* VIEW MY SCHEDULE - Print or reference your current schedule.
* UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT - View or print your grades and your unofficial transcript.
* VIEW RECEIPTS - View and print payment receipts generated by the Web Registration System.
* CHANGE YOUR PIN - Change your personal identification number.
Step Four
* To ADD or DROP a course to your schedule, type in the course section number as listed in the interactive course schedule. Click the "ADD/DROP" course button, and this will add it to your listing. To drop a course that you have added, simply click the "DROP COURSE" button to the right of the course at the bottom of your screen. Note: If you do not want to type in each section number, you can use the "SELECT COURSE" button to search the current course schedule. Once you find the course you want to take, you can click the "PUSH" button beside the course, and it will automatically insert course section number for you.* To view your listing, scroll to the bottom of the page.
* Continue the process of adding courses (or dropping them) until your schedule is complete.
* If your schedule is completed, click the "COMPLETE REGISTRATION" button. Note: You have NOT been added to the class roll or any changes to your schedule have NOT been saved until the "COMPLETE REGISTRATION" button is pressed.

Step Five
* You will now see a screen that provides information related to the tuition amounts that you are to pay for the schedule you have chosen. Available financial aid coverage will also be displayed on the screen. Note: To complete the entire registration process, you must pay the amount in the cash due column by midnight on the day you register. Failure to pay your tuition on time will result in removal from class. If you feel the financial aid applied to your account is incorrect, call the Office of Student Services at (256) 840-4107 or studentservices@snead.edu.* Pay with Visa or Mastercard. If you are satisfied with your schedule and are ready to pay your tuition and fees by Visa or Mastercard, you can do so online by clicking on the "COMPLETE REGISTRATION/SETTLE ACCOUNT" button. Complete the credit/debit card information form and follow directions as presented on the web.
* Pay with check. If you plan to pay your tuition and fees by check, you should click on the "PRINT PRE-REGISTRATION MAILER" button. Place a copy of your printed schedule along with your check to ensure receipting to the proper account. Mail your check to: Snead State Community College, ATTN Business Office, P.O. Box 734, Boaz, AL 35957. Note: this document will only print if your PC is connected to a printer. This will print a copy of your schedule along with the tuition/fees you owe. Send in a check for the amount shown on this mailer.* Pay in person. You may pay in person during regular office hours at the Business Office, located in the McCain Learning Resource Center. You may pay by check, Visa or Mastercard.

History Instructor Participates in Unique Opportunity

Snead State Community College History and Political Science Instructor Grover Kitchens (pictured at left in the Library of Congress) attended a National Endowment for the Humanities workshop on Thomas Jefferson in Washington D.C. in July.

The workshop is sponsored by the “We the People” grant from the federal government and has the idea that to truly understand history the participants must visit the “landmarks” of history. The “Thomas Jefferson: Legacies and Landmarks” workshop does just that.

Mr. Kitchens was chosen from community college instructors nationwide and was one of only 50 participants in this particular workshop. He had access to some of the most historic documents and items in the life of Jefferson.

“To be able to walk the paths of and view the products of Jefferson’s life was amazing,” said Mr. Kitchens.

Points of interest during Mr. Kitchens’ visit to Washington, D.C. included the Library of Congress, Monticello, and The University of Virginia. 

“All of these areas were greatly impacted by Thomas Jefferson. When the Library of Congress was burned by the British, the core of the new collection was from Jefferson,” said Mr. Kitchens.

He viewed the original collection from one of the founders and the writer of the Declaration of Independence. His tour of the Library included presentations by scholars and the author Peter Onuf, who wrote “The Mind of Thomas Jefferson.” 

According to Mr. Kitchens, the home of Monticello was full of innovations, books, and innovative architecture, and the culmination of those ideas was in the founding of the University of Virginia at Charlottesville, Va.

“The location of Monticello is a pivotal place in the life of Jefferson who loved to be there more than any other place,” said Mr. Kitchens. “Tours of Jefferson’s former home included information on his plantings, gardens, innovations (such as the dumb-waiter) and architecture. Here he welcomed many friends, entertained as a gentleman of the era would, enjoyed family life, and, most importantly to him, read and corresponded by letter. The large number of Jeffersonian letters provided the information for many of the lecture topics during the workshop.”

One of the workshop topics centered around something that was near and dear to Jefferson - education.

“He felt that education was not as free as it should be and was too tied to the church and the constricted views of certain religions. Being a man who was well read in all manner of literature, Jefferson wanted a college that had as a focal point not a chapel, but a chapel to the mind - the library.

“Today we hold this view of exploration and investigation as the cornerstone of education. Jefferson is, most probably, the founder of this idea in America. The University of Virginia was one of his proudest accomplishments and not only was it innovative in ideas but also in architecture as well,” said Mr. Kitchens. “It is considered to be innovative in layout and function, and many colleges in the future would look to it as an example of how a college was supposed to look.



Capitol Building



“Thomas Jefferson was an inventor, great thinker, excellent writer, and one of the most important men in our history, and it was a great experience to be in the places that he called home,’ said Mr. Kitchens. “I am extremely honored to again be chosen for a National Endowment for the Humanities workshop and feel that they add a great deal to my classroom instruction.”

Mr. Kitchens has previously attended workshop events in Savannah, Georgia, and Oxford, Mississippi.

Financial Assistance is Available for Students Affected by April Tornados

Students who were adversely affected by the April 27, 2011, tornados that ravaged the area may be eligible for financial assistance to aid them in pursuing their education.

A Disaster Relief Scholarship is available to those students who meet the requirements:

• Be enrolled full-time (a minimum of 12 credit hours) for the Fall 2011 semester.
• Possess a minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average.
• Complete a FAFSA form and file it with the Snead State Financial Aid Office.

The deadline for the $500 scholarship is Wednesday, August 17. Applications are available in the Snead State Financial Aid Office. For more information, contact Financial Aid at financialaid@snead.edu.

In addition to the Disaster Relief Scholarship, there is another source for financial assistance available to tornado victims wishing to continue their education at Snead State. Through the authorization of the Alabama State Board of Education, Snead State may also provide assistance to students who were adversely affected by the April 27 tornados by providing a 50 percent tuition (excluding fees) waiver for students and displaced workers whose homes and businesses were destroyed during the tornado.

To be eligible for the tuition waiver, students must submit a SSCC admission applications, a completed 2011-2012 FAFSA and Financial Aid Policy form and documentation of loss of home or loss of employment related to the April 27 tornados. Students receiving funding through the Workforce Investment Act or other federal workforce assistance programs or receiving substantial tuition assistance from other sources are ineligible for the tuition waiver.

Fall registration is going on now. Classes begin Aug. 22.

Snead State FYI

Below is some important information for students coming to Snead State this fall.

Fall registration is now open for all students. Classes for the full Fall term and the Fall Mini I term begin Monday, Aug. 22.

• If you are a returning Snead State student, you do not need to consult an advisor prior to registration UNLESS you have changed your major or if you just have a question about classes. 
• New students may receive assistance with the registration process by visiting the Arab Center on Main Street in Arab or the Student Success and Career Center on the Boaz campus. Both are open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
• New students are encouraged to participate in Parson Days (new student orientation) to be prepared for classes this fall. If you missed Parson Days in July, you have two more opportunities to participate: Friday, Aug. 19, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., and Saturday, Aug. 20, from 8 a.m. until noon.

New students starting classes this fall may have some new experiences. Here are some tips to be better prepared:

• If you would like to know how to find your classes on that first day, call and schedule a campus tour. One of our knowledge employees or student leaders will not only show you where to find your classes, they will also provide you with important information about parking areas, campus life, and more! You may contact one of our Student Recruiters to schedule a tour: Lindsey Beck at (256) 571-0612, lbeck@snead.edu, or Michelle Machen at (256) 571-0611, mmachen@snead.edu.
• Have you signed up for an online class, but you aren't familiar with Blackboard (Snead State's learning system)? Visit http://ondemand.blackboard.com/students.htm for a selection of tutorials that will take you step by step through the system, so you can be more comfortable with your online class.
• There are many ways for the College to contact students once they register for classes. Each student may be contacted by their instructor through the Blackboard system. Students are also given a student e-mail address through which they may receive correspondance from the College. The student e-mail address is separate from the Blackboard messaging system. It is important that you check both methods of communication several times during the week.
• Snead State also utilizes social media sites to communicate with students. Even if you don't have a profile on these sites, you can view Snead State's page for information. (While you may view the page, you will not be able to ask questions or comment unless you have a personal profile on these sites.) Follow Snead on twitter at www.twitter.com/sneadstatecc, or like our page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sneadstatecc.

If you have questions that have not been addressed in this blog, feel free to contact Snead State:

• Financial Aid - financialaid@snead.edu, (256) 840-4107
• Admissions - studentservices@snead.edu, (256) 840-4108
• Student Success and Career Center - studentsuccess@snead.edu, (256) 840-4208
• Snead State Bookstore - lpatterson@snead.edu, (256) 593-1861
• Campus Directory

Director's mission is 'to get students involved'

Courtesy of Lionel Green
The Sand Mountain Reporter

As a graduate of the University of Alabama, Brittany Wilborn knows the college experience is more than books and classes, exams and grades.

As director of campus engagement at Snead State Community College, Wilborn helps students know it, too.

Wilborn, 25, worked as a transfer advisor at Snead for two years before earning the position of campus engagement director in October. The 2004 graduate of Geraldine High School also attended Gadsden State Community College.

"It's my job to get all my students involved and to make sure they have things to do on campus," Wilborn said. "And not just your smart, high GPAs, cream-of-the-crop students, but everyone."

Wilborn, who manages Snead's Student Success and Career Center, touts the College Completion Agenda, an initiative geared to increase the number of students receiving their associate degrees.
"We're really pushing the College Completion Agenda and really focusing on getting our students to start at Snead and to finish here," she said.

"I'm the point person for our Student Success and Career Center. We're there to help them with admissions, financial aid, scholarships, career advising, tutoring programs ... just anything they need to do. We have it in our center under one roof," she said.

Wilborn said participation in campus activities and the College Completion Agenda go hand in hand.
"Statistically, the more involved students are, the better they perform academically," she said.

Shelley Smith, Snead's marketing and public relations director, agreed, saying participation in clubs and organizations enhances student leadership abilities.

"With organizations like Phi Theta Kappa, they also have scholarship opportunities," Smith said. "With Phi Beta Lambda, they go to state competitions where they actually build on their business skills and workplace skills.

"Even though they're involved in doing things like dances, they're also learning and building on the education they're getting in the classroom. So it's only going to add to what they're getting from their instructors out of the classes," she said.

Wilborn said organizations on the Boaz-based campus filter though her office.

"My office does a lot of the student activities, as far as the dances," she said. "We do Club Rush at the beginning to put our clubs and organizations out there. I'm directly responsible for our Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society and our Student Government Association."

Snead's enrollment of 2,100 students is an assortment of traditional students, such as recent high school graduates, and nontraditional students, ranging from the laid-off employee learning another skill to the stay-at-home mother looking to enter the workforce. Many commute to the college.

Despite the eclectic blend of students, Wilborn said Snead's population stays plugged in to community events.

"Our students are very proactive," she said. "If there's anything going on, they probably know about it before I do, and they are not hesitant to come to me and want to help and want to be involved.

"All the students are using Facebook and Twitter. If there's something going on, they're going to know about it, and they'll spread the word. That's one thing I found different from other community colleges is these students reach out to me and want to get involved and be a part of anything that's going on in the community."
Wilborn said Snead ultimately tries to prepare students for "the real world."

"We're just trying to put them in real-life situations that they can learn from," she said.

The joy of Wilborn's job is seeing students graduate and knowing their participation in Snead organizations helped them reach the next level.

"Through the clubs and organizations, some students were able to go to the University of Alabama or Samford or transfer period because of the scholarship opportunities that are gained by being involved at Snead," Wilborn said.

Phone system out of service Friday.

Snead State Community College announces that on Friday, July 29, the phone system at the College will be out of service.

The supporting equipment for the phone system is currently housed in the Administration Building on the Boaz campus, but in light of renovations at the building, the equipment must be moved to the McCain Student Success Center.

There is no timeframe for when the phone system will be back in service on Friday. Anyone who calls the College and cannot get through may contact college personnel through e-mail or social media sites (www.facebook.com/sneadstatecc or www.twitter.com/sneadstatecc).

Students with questions regarding fall registration, financial aid, or fall classes may contact the Student Services Office at studentservices@snead.edu.

Snead State, D1 Huntsville host a Speed Camp Saturday

Athletes looking to improve their speed and agility still have time to register for a Speed Camp hosted by Snead State Community College and D1 Huntsville on Saturday, July 30.

Dallas Terrell, one of the featured trainers at the camp, is the 1997 World Record Holder Bench Press (DRUG FREE), two-time D1 Strength Coach of the Year, and Head Trainer at D1 Huntsville who has spoken for Nike and at seminars for Troy State, Samford, and UAH. He has trained with athletes including Todd Burns, Amobi Okoye, Ramzee Robinson, Philip Rivers, and Peyton Manning.

Brian Smalley is the second featured trainer at the camp. He is an ex-defensive back for Miles College and a Douglas High School graduate. He is the D1 Strength and Conditioning Trainer who has worked with athletes including Tim Tebow, Herschel Walker, and Kenneth Darby.

The camp will be held at the Lady Parsons Softball Field on Snead State’s Boaz campus. Participants ages 10-14 will attend from 8-9:30 a.m., and participants ages 15 and up will participate from 10-11:30 a.m. The cost is $40. Participants can register through the day of the camp.

During the Speed Camp, athletes will be provided a challenging, competitive environment, where each participant can build confidence, master acceleration, deceleration technique, and maximize physical athletic potential and performance.

For more information or to access a registration form, go to www.snead.edu and select Athletics. Questions may be directed to Athletic Director Sean Abernathy at sabernathy@snead.edu or (256) 840-4204.

Snead State Pre-Nursing Students Class Registration Information

This video contains important information on class registration. Please preview before registering for classes.

New Student Orientation Quiz

Click on the link below to take the quiz for the New Student Orientation modules. The modules are available in earlier posts on the Snead State Experience blog. YOU MUST COMPLETE AND SUBMIT THIS QUIZ BEFORE YOU WILL BE CLEARED TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES. Registration for new students begins July 16.

http://tinyurl.com/SneadOrientation

Congratulations to Student Athletes on their Success

Five Snead State Community College athletes were recognized for their academic success by the NJCAA.

“Academics are such a critical aspect of the college experience at Snead, and our athletes are held to a high standard of academic excellence because of that. It’s important for our student-athletes to excel on the field or on the court, but it’s more important for them to excel in the classroom,” said

Snead State President Dr

. Robert Exley. “I congratulate these athletes for their hard work and dedication to their studies. I look forward to finding out just how far their Snead State education will take them in their endeavors.”

“I was delighted to hear of the recognitions earned by this group of Snead State students. Many of our faculty has commented to me that this is an indication that our athletes are students first. I congratulate the students and applaud the efforts of their coaches to encourage academic achievement,” said Chief Academic Officer Dr. Larry Miller.



Alex Edwards



Travis Salyers



Cal Hardie
















Kim McIntyre


 

Meagan Box

 

The NJCAA recognized 1,470 student-athletes who met the requirements for Academic All- Americans. Five Snead State athletes were awarded this honor.

Superior Academic Achievement (GPA 3.8 or higher)

• William Hardie of Breman, Ga. William played on the baseball team. He is majoring in business and will continue his education at Shorter College in the fall.

Exemplary Academic Achievement (GPA 3.6 or higher)



• Meagan Box of Addision. Meagan played volleyball. She is transferring to Athens State University majoring in secondary math education.
• James Alex Edwards of Marietta, Ga., He was a baseball player, and his major is engineering. He will transfer to Georgia Southern this fall.
• Kimberly McIntyre of Harvest. She was a Lady Parson Volleyball player and plans to play volleyball at Reinhardt University. She is a biology major.
• Travis Salyers of Woodstock, Ga. He played baseball and is majoring in engineering. He will continue his education in the fall at Georgia Southern.

Head Baseball Coach Gerry Ledbetter and Head Volleyball Coach Lisa Bright praised their athletes for their academic achievements.



“When Dr. Exley first came to Snead as the President, he encouraged us to recruit athletes who showed excellence on the field and in the classroom. These three student athletes are examples of making his encouragement a reality. I consider it a privilege and pleasure to have these young men as a part of our team, our community, and the Snead State family,” said Coach Ledbetter.

“I am very proud of both Meagan and Kim. They both worked extremely hard day in and day out to achieve this award, and they have a very bright future ahead of them. I look forward to seeing what all they can achieve at the next level both in the classroom and on the court for Kim,” said Coach Bright.

The 2010-2011 season marks the 28^th year the NJCAA has recognized the success of its student-athletes in the classroom. With minimal changes, the NJCAA academic awards program has been in place since 1983.