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Spotlight: Pioneer Proud Campaign
Team BC3’s Prize Patrol delivers prizes to college employees who have supported the Pioneer Proud Campaign. (L to R): Ruthi Orloski, BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. Secretary; Jake Friel, Controller; Ann McCandless, Dean of Educational Technology; Karen Zapp, Project Manager for TAACCCT; and Kevin Loomis, Maintenance Staff.
Upon completion of a campaign feasibility study performed by The Armistead Group LLC, the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. initiated the Pioneer Proud Campaign. This campaign is the second major fundraising campaign in BC3 history. Read more...
The Pioneer Proud Campaign is focused on three initiatives: transforming the library into a learning commons, sustaining student access and success, and supporting economic development in our communities.
This year, the Campaign Steering Committee, a volunteer group responsible for providing direction to the campaign, secured leadership gifts and established policies to guide the campaign. The first $1 million gift was pledged to the library project and will be recognized by the naming of The Heaton Family Learning Commons.
BC3 staff formed Team BC3 to motivate employee involvement in the Pioneer Proud Campaign. Team BC3 secured more than double the average employee participation in college fundraising campaigns by achieving 80% employee participation. Team BC3 added fun to the fundraising by forming the Prize Patrol, hosting an ice cream social, and distributing 100% Pioneer Proud wristbands. Show less...Pioneer Proud Campaign:
The Campaign for Butler County Community College
Steering Committee and Team BC3 members -
BC3 maintenance staff responds to winter weather
Employees of the BC3 Maintenance Department. (L to R): Kevin Loomis, Maintenance Staff; Scott Daubenspeck, Maintenance Staff; Ron Thompson, Maintenance Facilities Coordinator; Mike Huff, Maintenance Staff; Melissa Hensel, Operations Secretary; Brian Optiz, Executive Director of Operations; Ed Stark, Jr., Maintenance Grounds Coordinator; and Jay Motko, Maintenance Staff.
In January and February this year, the College used the BC3 Alerts notification system a total of 8 times to alert students, faculty, and staff about weather related cancellations and delays. Due to conditions of snow and ice, BC3 had 5 full closing days, 2 days with a 10:00 a.m. late start, and 1 day with a 4:00 p.m. early closing. Read more...
Many factors are considered when making the decision to delay, close, or operate under a normal schedule. The BC3 maintenance staff works day and night to clear parking lots and sidewalks at all BC3 locations and is dedicated to the safety and security of the BC3 community. Show less...
President’s Blog Post:
Weather Issues & Safety -
Remembering Harold Farneth
When the College was chartered in 1965, Harold Farneth was named BC3’s first dean of students. Farneth worked for BC3 for two years before continuing his career in higher education at the Community College of Allegheny County, Monroe Community College in Rochester, and the Rochester Institute of Technology. Read more...
Farneth was the first of his family to graduate from college, earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in secondary education and a doctoral degree in educational administration, all from the University of Pittsburgh. Farneth was an advocate of education, working as both a teacher and an administrator during his career. Show less...
Article: Pittsburgh Tribune Review:
Teacher’s efforts, example promoted education
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BC3 responds to workforce and industry training needs
Training for law enforcement officers held at the Public Safety Training Facility on main campus.
Business and Industry Training at BC3 expanded personnel and programs this year to accommodate the growing and changing workforce in the region. Customized training and open enrollment classes in the areas of business, industrial safety, and public safety focused on impacting growth and the bottom line for companies in Butler County and beyond. Read more...
With the rise of natural gas drilling in the region, BC3 provided training for firefighters to ensure safety at the gas well site. A demand for welders has also increased with the growth of the natural gas industry, leading to the development of a welding certificate in collaboration with the Butler County Vocational-Technical School. Public safety training for local law enforcement expanded with continued use of the Meggit System for weapons simulation training.
BC3 hosted an Energy Symposium for leaders in the energy sector to discuss opportunities for growth, including training for workers in the natural gas industry. The College offers federal grant funding through the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) that pays for roustabout training for workers and funding through the ShaleNET program that pays for energy and manufacturing training. Demand has led to the development of both credit and noncredit certificate programs in Energy Production Technology. Show less...Articles: Butler County Business Matters:
BC3 shakes up workforce training to meet growing needs
BC3 provides high-tech public safety training
Game changing nature of Marcellus Shale dominates discussion at symposium
Firefighters train for gas well blaze -
President Neupauer attends ACCT National Legislative Summit
On February 10-13, President Neupauer attended the Community College National Legislative Summit sponsored by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) in Washington, D. C. Read more...
Keynote speakers were Melody Barnes, Former Assistant to the President and Director of the White House Domestic Policy Council, and Ari Fleischer, Former White House Press Secretary and Spokesman and CNN Political Analyst.
Trustees, presidents, students, and other advocates came together to highlight the importance of community colleges to the nation’s economic development. Attendees met with Representatives and Senators to urge a commitment to continued success of community college institutions. Show less...Program Highlights:
ACCT 2014 National Legislative Summit -
President Neupauer appeals for increased state funding in Harrisburg
President Neupauer is interviewed by the Pennsylvania Cable Network (PCN) after testifying before the PA House Appropriations Committee in Harrisburg.
President Neupauer, serving as Chairman of the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges, testified before the Pennsylvania House Appropriations Committee to make a case for increased state funding for the Commonwealth’s 14 community colleges in the 2014-2015 fiscal year. Read more...
Alongside Dr. Karen Stout, President of Montgomery County Community College, and Elizabeth A. Bolden, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges, President Neupauer emphasized the important role of community colleges in economic development.
President Neupauer, serving as Chairman of the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges, testified before the Pennsylvania House Appropriations Committee to make a case for increased state funding for the Commonwealth’s 14 community colleges in the 2014-2015 fiscal year. Show less...Article: The Reporter:
PA community college leaders make funding case in Harrisburg
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Pioneer Proud Campaign event held in Florida
Friends of BC3 at the Pioneer Proud Campaign event in Florida. (L to R): Bob Norris, Bette King Norris, and Norma Nieto.
A reception for the Pioneer Proud Campaign was hosted by Bob and Gail Hunter and Nancy and Joe Mycka at the Colony Bay Club in Bonita Springs, Florida. Bob Hunter and Nancy Hunter Mycka serve as co-chairs of the Pioneer Proud Campaign. The event was also co-hosted by President Neupauer and his wife Tammy and the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. Read more...
President Neupauer addressed invited guests about the Pioneer Proud Campaign and how it will influence the future of the College. Brian Opitz, BC3 Executive Director of Operations, presented drawings and plans for the renovation of the library. Ruth Purcell, Executive Director of the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc., talked to guests about how to become involved with the campaign.
Close to 50 friends of BC3 attended, both snowbirds and those who reside in Florida. After learning more about the College and campaign initiatives, many guests made commitments to support the Pioneer Proud Campaign. Show less... -
President Neupauer speaks at CDC annual meeting
More than 200 people attended the annual meeting of the Community Development Corporation (CDC) of Butler County at the Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry Township. The meeting theme “People, Purpose, and Passion” focused on cooperation among community partnerships to spur economic growth in the county. Read more...
President Neupauer addressed attendees on the importance of collaboration and transparency in the economic development of Butler County. BC3 collaborates with state and local governments, businesses, and other schools to offer education and workforce training and attract businesses and residents to the area. Show less...
President Neupauer’s Speech:
Butler County’s pathway to success
President Neupauer's Speech:
Butler County's pathway to success
Article: Butler Eagle:
Community developer CDC review progress, purpose
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BC3 visits PA Capitol for Annual Lobby Day and Community College Month
BC3 students at the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg. Top Row (L to R): Tyler Friel and Hunter Green. Bottom Row (L to R): Paige Neupauer, Brooke Opitz, and Olivia Terwilliger.
BC3 students Tyler Friel, Hunter Green, Paige Neupauer, Brooke Opitz, and Olivia Terwilliger accompanied President Neupauer to the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges Annual Lobby Day at the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg. Read more...
Pennsylvania’s fourteen community colleges kicked of Community College Month with a rally in the Main Capitol Rotunda where BC3 student Tyler Friel shared his experience and the positive impact community college had on his life.
Also in attendance were Jake Friel, BC3 Controller; Josh Novak, Dean of Student Development; Sherri Osborne, Assistant Director of Student Activities; and Brian Optiz, Executive Director of Operations.
As part of Lobby Day, BC3 students met with legislators to promote the College and community colleges across the Commonwealth. Show less...Flickr Photo Album:
Lobby Day at PA Capitol
BC3 News Release:
Pennsylvania’s community college kick off Community College Month -
BC3 students named to 2014 All-Pennsylvania Academic Team
Stephanie Croft, BC3 student and member of the 2014 All-Pennsylvania Academic Team, with President Neupauer at the Awards Banquet in Harrisburg.
BC3 students Stephanie Croft and Jordan Matulevich were named to the 2014 All-Pennsylvania Academic Team by the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges and Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society for two-year colleges. Honored students are recognized for their academic achievements in the classroom and volunteerism in the community. Candidates are nominated by their attending college and must maintain a 3.5 GPA or higher. Read more...
Croft and Matulevich, along with 45 other community college students from across the Commonwealth, were honored at the 20th Annual All-Pennsylvania Awards Banquet in Harrisburg. President Neupauer gave the welcome address followed by keynote speaker Chris Calhoun, Professor/Coordinator of the Park and Recreation Program at BC3. Honorees were presented with medals and certificates from the Presidents of their respective community colleges.
Both Croft and Matulevich graduated from BC3 with an associate degree in Business Administration in December 2014. Croft, a Butler High School graduate, transferred to Clarion University to study Accounting. Matulevich, a Seneca Valley High School graduate, transferred to Slippery Rock University to study Business Management. Show less... -
BC3 administrators present at AACC Annual Convention
College administrators at the AACC Annual Convention in Washington, D. C. (L to R): President Neupauer, Ruth Purcell, Bill O’Brien, and Gary Gulla.
On April 5-8, President Neupauer attended and presented at the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Annual Convention in Washington, D.C. entitled Great Expectations: Implementing a 21st Century Student Success Agenda. Read more...
Attending the convention with President Neupauer were William O’Brien, Vice President for Continuing Education and Off-Campus Sites; Rosemary Keasey, Dean of Business; Ruth Purcell, Executive Director of Advancement; and Francie Spigelmyer, Vice President of Academic Affairs; as well as Gary Gulla, Assistant City Manager for the City of Hermitage.
Keynote speakers were Jim Collins, Business Thinker, Lecturer, and Author of Good to Great; Amy Walter, National Editor of the Cook Political Report; and General Colin Powell, Secretary of State from 2001-2005.
Neupauer, Gulla, O’Brien, and Purcell presented Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships to Execute a College’s Key Strategic Initiative focusing on the process and development of BC3 as a regional institution. Keasey and Spigelmyer presented Ambiguous Partners: The Completion Agenda and the Role of Adjunct Faculty examining the role of adjunct faculty members in the college completion agenda. Show less...ACCT Annual Convention:
Presentation Descriptions -
BC3’s Public Safety Training Facility hosts MSA international fire training
An instructor and interpreter work with MSA international firefighters at the Public Safety Training Facility on main campus.
Fourteen firefighters from Chile, Brazil, Ecuador, Panama, Columbia, and the U.S. participated in a 3-day Industrial Fire Brigade Training for Mine Safety Appliance (MSA) international contingency of firefighters. Read more...
MSA firefighters were the first to use the new wire entanglement prop and maze in the Public Safety Training Facility’s fall protection building. The wire entanglement prop and maze, constructed by public safety staff, was funded through a $3,000 grant by the Butler County Fire Chief's Association.
The training included lecture followed by hands-on training on facility grounds in Rapid Intervention and Firefighter Survival, as well as a live burn with SCBA and smoke. Participants received MSA Gallet F1 XF fire helmets that were used for a portion of the training. Show less...Flickr Photo Album:
MSA International Fire Training
Article: Butler Eagle:
MSA hosts training at BC3 -
Middle States Commission reaccreditation process underway at BC3
College administrators at the Middle States Open Forum on main campus. (L to R): Sherri Mack, Middle States Co-Chair and Assistant Professor in the Business Division; Dr. Ellie Fogarty, liaison for the Middle States Commission; Dr. Francie Spigelmyer, Vice President for Academic Affairs; and Alex Gladis, Middle States Co-Chair and Director of BC3 at Cranberry.
BC3 administrators, faculty, and students gathered for an open forum to discuss the upcoming 10-year reaccreditation review by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Dr. Ellie Fogarty, liaison for the Middle States Commission, addressed attendees about the preparation process for the 2015-2016 review. Read more...
The Middle States Commission is responsible for reviewing the mission and goals, performance and effectiveness, and resources of higher education institutions nationwide. Accreditation confirms the quality and integrity of institutional programs and services to allow for articulation with other institutions and student eligibility for financial aid.
The reaccreditation process involves an extensive self-study of BC3, including data collection and analysis of various aspects of the College. Sherri Mack, Assistant Professor in the Business Division, and Alex Gladis, Director of BC3 at Cranberry, are serving as Co-Chairs for the Steering Committee to facilitate the self-study. Prior to the open forum, Mack and Gladis assigned Task Force co-chairs and committee members aligning with the 14 Standards of Accreditation set by the Middle States Commission. The self-study is followed by an onsite evaluation to be conducted in 2016.
BC3’s last reaccreditation by the Middle State Commission was in 2005-2006. A standard 5-year periodic review took place in 2011. Show less... -
CCLC students break ground for Outdoor Nature Classroom
CCLC students prepare to break ground on the new Outdoor Nature Classroom on main campus. Top Row (L to R): President Neupauer; Ruth Purcell, Executive Director of the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc.; Jason Hillwig, ALCOA Controller; and Judy Zuzack, Director of the Children’s Creative Learning Center.
BC3’s Children’s Creative Learning Center students broke ground on a state-of-the-art Outdoor Nature Classroom to be located behind the CCLC facility on main campus. Read more...
Partially funded by a $25,000 donation by the ALCOA Foundation, the Outdoor Nature Classroom will include a gardening area, a slide built into the hillside, a space for music with stationary instruments, and an area to work with natural materials such as dirt, water, and sand.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, CCLC students sang a nature song for attendees and presented a group painting to ALCOA representatives Debbie Walker, Human Resource Generalist, and Jason Hillwig, Controller.
The Outdoor Nature Classroom was designed by DPH Architecture and will be certified by the Nature Explore Classroom Certification Program.
The CCLC facility will also be expanded into a 7,500 square foot space. A new back entrance to the College will include a drop off circle to the CCLC. The current CCLC facility will be renovated into a teachers lounge, classroom space, and storage. Show less...Flickr Photo Album:
CCLC Groundbreaking: Outdoor Nature Classroom
Article: Butler Eagle:
Kids help break ground at BC3
Article: Pittsburgh Tribune Review: Learning center to offer daycare participants outdoor experience
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BC3 recognizes employee years of service, retirees, and new hires
President Neupauer with Ruth Scott who retired as Director of Records and Registration after 40 years of service to the College.
Over 130 people attended BC3’s Annual Recognition Dinner & Awards Banquet in Founders Hall on Main Campus. The College honored recent retirees and current employees for their years of service and recognized a number of new employees. Read more...
BC3 also named the recipients of the new "Above and Beyond Award" from a number of nominees. Barry Pallone, Maintenance Supportive Services, was named the first recipient as well as Dottie Los, Nicole Barnes, and Amanda Fleming from the College Business Services Department. Show less...
YouTube Video Playlist:
2014 Employee Recognition Honorees
Flickr Photo Album:
2014 Employee Recognition Dinner
2014 Honorees:
10 Years, 20 Years, 25 Years, 30 Years, 35 Years, Retirees, New Hires
BC3 President’s Blog Post:
Above and Beyond -
BC3 holds 46th Annual Commencement
Graduates of the BC3 Nursing, R.N. program pose for a photo after the 2014 commencement ceremony on main campus.
BC3 held its 46th Annual Commencement in the Field House on main campus to celebrate the 2014 graduating class. The ceremony was followed by a reception in Founders Hall. Approximately 498 students graduated from BC3 in the 2013-2014 academic year. Read more...
Elizabeth Bolden, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges, gave the keynote address. Andrew McDowell, Vice President of Western Field Operations for the Western Reserve Land Conservancy, was the Distinguished Alumni speaker. Tanner McCaw gave the student address and Pauline Wilbert spoke as the new student alumni representative. Both McCaw and Wilbert graduated with degrees in Business Administration.
Around 219 students marched in the ceremony. Of the 498 graduates, there were 10 military veterans and 17 students receiving two degrees. Show less...Flickr Photo Album:
46th Annual Commencement
Article: Butler Eagle:
Grads head to next step
BC3 Featured Graduates:
BC3 Main Campus: Butler Eagle:
BC3 grad travels long way
BC3 @ Cranberry: Pittsburgh Tribune Review:
BC3 an attractive choice for older students
BC3 @ Lawrence Crossing: New Castle News:
Setbacks no deterrent to achieving diploma
BC3 @ LindenPointe: Sharon Herald:
Education didn’t compute until coming here to BC3
BC3 @ Brockway: Jefferson County Neighbors:
Cody Wadding highlighted as outstanding graduate -
President Neupauer presents at joint meeting of PASSHE and community college presidents
As board chair of the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges, President Neupauer spoke to presidents and chief academic officers from the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and the commonwealth’s community colleges at the Dixon Center in Harrisburg. Read more...
President Neupauer, along with Dr. Cheryl J. Norton, President of Slippery Rock University (SRU), presented on the unique partnerships between BC3 and SRU.
Hosted by PASSHE Chancellor Frank Brogan, the joint meeting was the first of its kind to include all presidents and provosts together. President Neupauer and Dr. Francie Spigelmyer, Vice President of Academic Affairs, represented BC3.
As a result of the meeting, Dr. Spigelmyer will serve on a steering committee focused on future work and collaborations between Pennsylvania’s 14 state universities and 14 community colleges. Show less...
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BC3 golfer finishes 10th in NJCAA Division III Championships and named All-American
Stefan Carlsson, BC3 Pioneer Golfer and 2014 All-American, with his 10th place NJCAA Division III Championship flag on main campus.
Stefan Carlsson, BC3 Pioneer Golfer, finished in 10th place at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division III Golf Championships in Chautaqua, N.Y. Carlsson also earned All-American honors, making him the third All-American golfer in BC3 history. Read more...
In four rounds of golf, Carlsson finished with a 12-over par 300. He is a Knoch High School graduate and freshman at BC3. Show less...
Article: Butler Eagle:
Transfer pays off for golfer -
Remembering Jessica Forsythe
Jessica Forsythe, former member of the BC3 Board of Trustees.
Jessica Forsythe, President and Owner of 4-Most Group, Inc. Architects, served on the BC3 Board of Trustees for 10 years beginning in 2004. A distinguished graduate of BC3, Forsythe earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in 1969. In 2004, Forsythe was named one of the first recipients of the BC3 Distinguished Alumni Award.
While serving on the BC3 Board of Trustees, Forsythe was on the facilities committee and contributed her architectural experience to various building projects at the College, including the Student Success Center which opened in 2009. Read more...
Forsythe’s architectural firm designed a number of buildings in Butler County and she was a member of many professional organizations. She played an active role in the local community serving in various leadership roles and was an advocate of education. Show less...
Article: Butler Eagle:
Community efforts are remembered
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BC3 scholarships help recruit volunteer firefighters in Butler County
The number of volunteer firefighters in Butler County has dropped considerably over the years. The Cranberry County Community Chest initiated a $500,000 effort this year to recruit volunteer firefighters in Butler County. The project has since been named Project of the Year for the organization. Read more...
Bruce Mazzoni, treasurer of the Community Chest, is leading the fundraising effort. Mazzoni is also Chairman of the Board of Supervisors in Cranberry Township and serves on the BC3 Board of Trustees.
The goal of the project is to establish a number of $1,000 endowed scholarships at BC3 and donate a $130,000 emergency fire safety trailer to the College for education, training, and use by all fire departments in Butler County.
Scholarships will be awarded to students who take the 180-hour Firefighter Essentials training that prepares firefighters for the Firefighter I Certification Test. Awardees must also commit at least 2 years of service to a local volunteer fire department. Show less...Article: Butler Eagle:
Effort seeks to hike ranks of firefighters
Article: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:
Partnership forms to boost volunteer firefighting in Butler County -
BC3 focuses on Debt Free education and offers payment plan for fall semester
One of four Debt Free campaign billboards featuring BC3 graduate Brandie Fleeger.
Recruitment efforts for the 2014-2015 academic year focused on earning an associate degree debt free from BC3. Campaign messaging on billboards and social media, as well as television, radio, and print advertising, emphasized the percentage of BC3 students who receive federal and state grants and graduate without the need for student loans. Read more...
The registration and payment process was also evaluated this year, resulting in the creation of a new payment plan. BC3 EZ-PAY allows students to make tuition payments throughout the semester, instead of paying their total tuition cost up front. Introduction of the payment plan gives students financial flexibility and ample time to apply, register, and secure financial aid before starting their first day of class. Show less...
YouTube Video Playlist:
BC3 Debt Free Students
Facebook Photo Album:
#BC3DebtFree Selfie Winners
Article: Butler Eagle:
BC3 to offer payment plan -
BC3 announces $1 million gift to fund library renovation
Architect rendering of the main entrance to the new Heaton Family Learning Commons on main campus.
Robert R. Heaton, a real estate developer and lifelong Butler resident, generously made a $1 million gift to the College to renovate the library on main campus. The $1 million is the largest gift ever received by the College in its 50-year history. Read more...
The gift will go toward the redesign of the current library into a state-of-the-art learning commons. Renovations to the 25,000 square-foot facility will include a new entrance, large windows, a café, a balcony with outdoor seating, and study rooms, as well as new computers and tablets. The library will be renamed The Heaton Family Learning Commons.
Last year, the Commonwealth awarded BC3 a $2.35 million grant to fund half of the $4.7 million library capital renovation. Transforming the library is an initiative of the Pioneer Proud Campaign to fund the remaining $2.35 million. The library hasn't been renovated since it opened in 1973. Show less...YouTube Video:
A Message from Robert R. Heaton
Article: Butler Eagle:
Gift to BC3 a reminder about community pride, giving back
Article: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:
BCCC gets $1 million gift to redo library
Article: Pittsburgh Tribune Review:
State money, private donations to help fund Butler County Community College library upgrade
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Remembering Ed Stark, Sr.
BC3 administrators dry off after taking the Ice Bucket Challenge in memory of BC3 employee Ed Stark, Sr. (L to R): Linda Dodd, Executive Director of Human Resources/Equal Opportunity Compliance Officer; President Neupauer; Ruth Purcell, Executive Director of the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc.; Pat Massaro, Executive Director of Campus Police and Security; Francie Spigelmyer, Vice President for Academic Affairs; and Case Willoughby, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.
Ed Stark, Sr. worked in the Maintenance Department at BC3 for 23 years before retiring in the spring of 2013. He was a longtime and beloved employee of the College. Read more...
Stark, Sr. passed away in August from complications due to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. In his memory, many BC3 employees took the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, an activity that went viral online in July of 2014 to promote ALS awareness and encourage donations to research.
BC3 departments who participated in the Ice Bucket Challenge are: Maintenance, Shipping & Receiving, Campus Police, College Services with the VP of Finance & Administration, Bookstore, Student Services, Finance with the BC3 Controller, IT, members of President’s Cabinet with President Neupauer, Human Resources, Educational Technology, BC3 @ Lawrence Crossing, BC3 @ LindenPointe, and the Library. Show less...Facebook Video Playlist:
BC3 Ice Bucket Challenges
Article: Butler Eagle:
Ice bucket challenge personal at BC3 -
Noel-Levitz survey results shared at Convocation
Dr. Case Willoughby, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, shared the 2014 Noel-Levitz survey results with the campus community at the 2014-2015 College Convocation. Read more...
Survey results showed significant improvement in student satisfaction at BC3 over the past 3 years. The College earned one, two, and three star ratings in areas like instructional effectiveness, campus climate, and safety and security.
The Noel-Levitz Student Satisfaction Survey is administered every 3 years at BC3. The 2014 survey results compared year-to-year data from 2011 to 2014. The College also performed well when compared to the mean scores of community colleges nationwide. Show less...President Neupauer's Speech:
2014-2015 College Convocation
PowerPoint Presentation:
2014 Noel-Levitz Survey Data -
BC3 announces Best Practices in Teaching and Learning Awards
Winners of the 2014 Best Practices in Teaching and Learning Award. (L to R): Chris Calhoun, Alex Gladis, Dave Schiebel, and Kevin Ruediger. Not pictured: Kim Fish.
Dr. Francie Spigelmyer, Vice President for Academic Affairs, announced the recipients of the Best Practices in Teaching and Learning Awards at the 2014-15 College Convocation. Read more...
Certificates are awarded annually to recipients who have demonstrated excellent pedagogical strategies that promote effective student learning.
The following BC3 faculty members were awarded: Chris Calhoun, Professor in the Humanities and Social Sciences Division; Kim Fish, Professor in the Business Divsision; Alex Gladis, Director of BC3 @ Cranberry; Dave Schiebel, Associate Professor in the Science and Technology Division; and Kevin Ruediger, Assistant Professor in the Science and Technology Division. Show less... -
BC3 Education Foundation Golf Outing raises $74,360
Team Dillon, McCandless, King, Coulter, and Graham Law Firm at the 19th Annual Foundation Golf Outing at the Olde Stonewall Golf Club. (L to R): John Anderson, Jerry Patterson, Rich Goldinger, and Mike Hnath.
The BC3 Education Foundation, Inc.’s 19th Annual Golf Outing raised $74,360 in gross proceeds to support academic scholarships at BC3 and provide funding for college initiatives and improvements. Proceeds from this event support student academic scholarships at BC3 and provide funding for college initiatives and improvements. Read more...
Held at the Olde Stonewall Golf Club in Ellwood City, the golf outing hosted 95 golfers and was played in a scramble format. The title sponsor of the outing was Farmers National Bank with additional support from 38 area businesses.
The following teams had a three-way tie for First Place: Butler Eagle; Dillion, McCandless, King, Coulter, and Graham Law Firm; and Highmark BC/BS. Golfers on the Butler Eagle team were Ken Fair, Pat Preston, Dave Parker, and Ron Vodenichar. Golfers on the Dillon, McCandless, King, Coulter, and Graham Law Firm team were John Anderson, Jerry Patterson, Rich Goldinger, and Mike Hnath. Golfers on the Highmark BC/BS team were Brian Zido, Ryan Novosel, Jason Macko, and Adam Kracht. Show less... -
BC3 Board of Trustees welcome new board member
Gail Paserba, newly appointed member of the BC3 Board of Trustees.
Gail Paserba, President of International Quality Consultants, was appointed by the Butler County Commissioners to serve a 6-year term on the BC3 Board of Trustees.
The Board of Trustees is a policy-making body that provides direction and guidance to the President and administration of the College. The primary functions of the Board include: establishing basic policy, appointing the President, and financial control of the institution.
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BC3 focuses on energy technology with new certificate programs
Students in the Energy Technology Workplace Certificate program at the Public Safety Training Facility on main campus.
The growing petroleum and natural gas industry has led the College to develop both credit and noncredit certificate programs focused on energy technology. The Energy Technology Workplace Certificate (credit) and the Energy Production Technology Certificate (noncredit) prepare graduates for high demand careers in the energy field. Read more...
XTO Energy donated $100,000 to BC3 to support these certificate programs, including curriculum development, equipment, and personnel. This is the second $100,000 donation made by XTO to support energy related training at the College.
New credit courses offered this semester include Introduction to Petroleum and Natural Gas, Process Control Instrumentation, Industrial Mechanics, and Technical Mathematics. Courses can be taken individually or put towards the credit certificate. Noncredit training includes Introduction to Petroleum & Natural Gas, the ShaleNET Roustabout Program, and Industrial Maintenance training. Students can take advantage of federal grant funding offered by BC3 through Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT). Show less...Article: Butler Eagle:
BC3 adds program to support industry
Article: Pittsburgh Tribune Review:
New BC3 classes prepare students for energy industry jobs -
BC3 kicks off 50th Anniversary with drone video of main campus
View from the drone of students, faculty, and staff spelling out “BC3” near the entrance of main campus.
Nearly 300 students, faculty, and staff gathered on main campus to spell out the letters "BC3" for a drone video in celebration of BC3’s 50th Anniversary. Read more...
A 40-foot outline of the letters was painted on the hill near the Decatur Drive entrance to main campus. Participants wore blue Pioneer Proud t-shirts and waved sheets of paper to give movement to the letters on camera.
The drone video, produced by the local company Picture This Media, also captured shots of the main campus grounds including buildings and activity during the day. The finished video won a Silver CUPPIE Award by the College and University Public Relations and Associated Professionals (CUPRAP) organization.
This event was coordinated by the 50th Anniversary Committee – a 20-member group of college employees planning celebration events and activities for the 2014-2015 academic year. Show less...YouTube Video:
BC3 50th Anniversary Drone Video
Flickr Photo Album:
Drone Video on Main Campus
Article: Butler Eagle:
Anniversary Celebrations begin at BC3 -
PA Labor and Industry Secretary visits BC3
Julia K. Hearthway, Secretary for the PA Department of Labor and Industry, with President Neupauer in the Board Annex on main campus.
Julia K. Hearthway, Secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, visited the College’s main campus to discuss statewide labor and industry initiatives.
Secretary Hearthway met with President Neupauer and other college officials including Francie Spigelmyer, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Bill O’Brien, Vice President for Continuing Education and Off-Campus Sites; Case Willoughby, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management; and Susan Changnon, Executive Director of Communications and Marketing.
Read more...The meeting also allowed Secretary Hearthway to learn more about occupational programs and credit and noncredit workforce training and certificates. Show less...
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BC3 Alumni Council holds first Bowling for Scholars event
A team of bowlers at the first BC3 Bowling for Scholars event at Family Bowlaway Fun Center in Butler.
The BC3 Alumni Association raised $6,000 with $700 in-kind donations at the first BC3 Bowling for Scholars fundraising event at Family Bowlaway Fun Center. All proceeds benefit student scholarships. Read more...
Teaming up with the BC3 Student Government and student club members, the BC3 Alumni Council transitioned from the annual Pioneer Golf Outing to begin a new tradition with Bowling for Scholars.
The event was made possible by the outstanding support of area businesses and friends of the College. The title sponsor was Butler Armco Employees Credit Union. Future POS sponsored t-shirts and Sam’s Club/Walmart sponsored food and refreshments.
The 2nd annual Bowling for Scholars will be held on November 13, 2015. Show less...Flickr Photo Album:
2014 Bowling for Scholars
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BC3 becomes business incubator with Fab Lab designation
Student work-study technicians discuss prototype ideas by the Universal Laser System in the Fab Lab at BC3.
The manufacturing lab in the Science and Technology Building on main campus was accepted into the Fab Lab program through the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Center for Bits and Atoms. Read more...
According to the Fab Foundation, the Fab Lab program is a global network that connects learners, educators, researchers, and innovators from 30 different countries. With over 60 Fab Labs located in the United States, BC3 is home to one of only two located in Pennsylvania.
The BC3 Fab Lab supports creativity and innovation to move ideas into products. Using the latest technology and equipment, the lab is used to teach STEM concepts, art, and technical trade skills to BC3 students. It is also open to local business and the public to try new ideas, create prototypes, and encourage economic growth.
Earning a Fab Lab designation involves a required list of machines and tools, as well as a support staff. BC3 Fab Lab equipment includes: 3D printing, soldering stations, laser cutting and engraving, vinyl, CNC router, electronics fabrication and testing equipment, Polycom videoconferencing bridge, Roland MDX-40A mini mill/contact scanner, Next Engine laser scanner, plastic injection, thermo-vacuum forming, networked workstations, and a full suite of software tools supporting both open source and commercial IT environments. Show less...Article: Butler Eagle:
BC3 effort aims to spur entrepreneurship
Article: Butler Eagle:
Focus on tech, hands-on training good for students and employers -
Pioneer Golf wins conference and state titles
The 2014 Pioneer Golf Team in the Field House on main campus.
The BC3 Pioneer Golf team won First Place at the Western Pennsylvania Collegiate Conference (WPCC) championship tournament at The Links at Spring Church in Apollo on October 4 & 5. The team went on to win First Place at the Pennsylvania Collegiate Athletic Association (PCAA) championship tournament at the Penn National Golf Club in Fayetteville on October 12 & 13. Read more...
Chris Kier was the WPCC Medalist and Stefan Carlsson was the PCAA Medalist. Kier and Carlsson also earned All-Conference honors, as well as team member Tommy Dimun.
Head coach Bill Miller was named WPCC and the PCAA invitational tournament Coach of the Year. Congratulations to the 2014 BC3 Pioneer Golf team! Show less...Article: Butler Eagle:
BC3 golf program dominates league
Article: Butler Eagle:
Golfers snare state title -
50th anniversary celebrations continue with Pioneer Proud Day and Dress for the Decades
Karen Zapp, Project Manager for TAACCCT and member of the 50th Anniversary Committee, rides with guests on a horse drawn wagon at Pioneer Proud Day on main campus.
Students, faculty, and staff were invited to bring their families to main campus for a BBQ picnic in celebration of BC3’s 50th anniversary. Free tickets and Pioneer Proud t-shirts were distributed at all campus locations leading up to the event. Read more...
The BBQ picnic was catered by Thompson’s Country Market with live music by The Gingerbeards. Attendees warmed up by fire pits, made s’mores, and played outdoor games. Horse drawn wagon rides gave guests a tour of campus and donated door prizes were distributed to winning ticket holders. A restored Conestoga wagon was on display as well as the main campus drone video and “Then and Now” photos in the Student Success Center.
Following Pioneer Proud Day, the 50th Anniversary Committee hosted a week-long “Dress in the Decades” event. BC3 called on students, faculty, and staff to dress up in vintage clothes from the top decades in BC3’s history. A contest for best costume was hosted each day in the Pioneer Café. Participants were reviewed by an emcee and panel of judges to win prizes inspired by each decade: 1960, 1970, 1980, and 1990. The last day featured Halloween costumes. Show less...Flickr Photo Album:
Pioneer Proud Day BBQ
Flickr Photo Album:
Dress in the Decades
Flickr Photo Album:
BC3 Then and Now -
Student inducted into the Rho Phi Chapter of PTK
Student officers of the Rho Phi Chapter and BC3 staff at the Phi Theta Kappa spring induction ceremony. (L to R): Ireon Noble, PTK President; Ashley Hevesy, PTK Vice President; Mike Dittman, Keynote Speaker and BC3 Instructor; Arlene Gardopee, PTK Advisor and Coordinator of the BC3 Scholars Program; Morgan Rizzardi, PTK Advisor and Associate Director of Admissions; Stephanie Brackbill, PTK Secretary; and Lauren Hughes, PTK Treasurer.
The Rho Phi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa at BC3 inducted 71 students in the spring semester and 71 students in the fall semester for a total of 142 students in 2014. Read more...
Phi Theta Kappa is the international honor society of the 2-year college with over 2 million members. The Rho Phi Chapter was established at BC3 in April of 1968.
The honor society is dedicated to achieving excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship. Show less...Flickr Photo Album:
Phi Theta Kappa Fall Induction Ceremony
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BC3 honors donors, scholarship recipients, and Distinguished Alumni
2014 Distinguished Alumni Awardees at the Oak Hills Legacy Dinner in Founders Hall. (L to R): Ed Shields, Robert Heaton, and Steven Newcaster.
The College hosted the annual Oak Hills Legacy Dinner in Founders Hall to honor donors and recognize students who received scholarships for the 2014-2015 academic year. Nearly 300 guests attended the event. Read more...
The BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. awarded 93 scholarships to 123 students. There were 38 students who received the full-tuition President’s Scholarship totaling $49,389. For 2014-2015, total scholarship awards were estimated at $176,600, including 18 new scholarships.
Steven Newcaster (’96), Senior Associate with Stantec in Butler, received the 2014 Distinguished Alumni Award. Honorary Distinguished Alumni awards were presented to Robert Heaton for his outstanding philanthropy and Ed Shields for his 50-year association as a faculty member at BC3. Show less...Flickr Photo Album:
2014 Oak Hills Legacy Dinner
Article: Butler Eagle:
BC3 hosts annual Legacy Dinner
Article: Butler Eagle:
BC3 Education Foundation awards $176,000 in scholarships -
President Neupauer speaks at Pittsburgh Business Times Corridors of Opportunity
President Neupauer addressed attendees as a panelist at the Corridors of Opportunity event sponsored by the Pittsburgh Business Times. The event is part of a series highlighting growth corridors in the Pittsburgh area. Read more...
The panel discussion focused on business opportunities in Butler County. President Neupauer spoke about efforts to unify Butler County in its approach to economic development as well as the millennial generation.
Presenting with President Neupauer were Ron Henshaw, Director of the Department of Community Development for Cranberry Township; Ken Raybuck, Executive Director of the Economic Development Corporation of Butler County; and Gabe Pellathy, Director of Government Affairs at PPG Industries. Show less...Article: Pittsburgh Business Times:
Butler one of the growing corridors of opportunity in Pittsburgh region
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BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. welcomes new board members
Kim Geyer, Executive Assistant to County Commissioner William McCarrier, and Robert Hovanec, retired president and COO of Peoples TWP (formerly T.W. Phillips Gas and Oil Company), started 3-year terms on the Board of Directors for the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. Read more...
Geyer was appointed by the BC3 Board of Trustees and Hovanec was elected by the BC3 Education Foundation Board, Inc. Geyer and Hovanec both serve on the Steering Committee for the Pioneer Proud Campaign.
The BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. Board secures and manages private funds for the benefit of Butler County Community College. Show less... -
BC3 dedicates The Bennitt House on main campus
Friends of BC3 gather to dedicate the Bennitt House on main campus. (L to R): President Neupauer; Ruth Purcell, Executive Director of the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc.; and Fred Bennitt.
The BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. formally dedicated "The Bennitt House" on main campus for Sue Bennitt and her husband Fred. The Old Plank Road property was owned by the Bennitt’s and purchased in March 2012. Read more...
Sue Bennitt worked as an academic counselor at BC3 from 1979 to 1999. During her 20 years of service, Bennitt was elected to the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors in 1996 and became Chair of the Board in 2005. Under her leadership, the Foundation increased overall private contributions to the college and expanded the scholarship program. Bennitt also a played a part in the establishment of BC3 at LindenPointe in Mercer County.
The Bennitt House, connected to main campus by the Shaffer Walking Trail, has been repurposed into office space. The former living room now serves as a place to gather for classes and meetings. Show less...BC3 News Release:
BC3 names house on main campus for former Chair of the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. -
BC3 hosts regional trustees meeting for PA Commission
Each year, the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges holds annual trustee meetings across the state. The Commonwealth’s 14 community colleges divide into 3 regions for the meetings. Read more...
This year, BC3 hosted the western PA colleges including Beaver County Community College, the Community College of Allegheny County, and Westmoreland County Community College. Trustees and presidents from each community college networked and shared ideas and information on campus issues, trends, and best practices.
Presentations focused on the Commission’s new strategic plan and organizational structure. President Neupauer and Case Willoughby, Vice President for Student Services, also facilitated a presentation on the culture of assessment at BC3. Around 30 guests attended including members of BC3’s President’s Cabinet. Show less... -
BC3 takes part in Butler’s Spirit of Christmas Parade
BC3 takes part in the 2014 Butler Spirit of Christmas Parade. (L to R): President Neupauer, Tammy Neupauer, Jim Humphreys, and Cindy Humphreys.
BC3 participated in the 2014 Butler County Spirit of Christmas Parade in celebration of the College’s 50th Anniversary. Read more...
Students and staff walked alongside a restored Conestoga wagon pulled by two horses along the parade route. The wagon was decorated in garland wrapped in blue and white lights. Under the wagon cover was a miniature lighted Christmas tree that was visible from the back.
Students and staff wore blue and white Santa hats and scarfs and handed out candy to children. Proceeding the wagon, President Neupauer rode in a black Mustang Convertible along with his wife Tammy and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jim and Cindy Humphreys.
Decorations and coordination was handled by the 50th Anniversary Committee. This year also marked the 50th Anniversary of the parade on Main Street in Butler. Show less...Flickr Photo Album:
Butler County Spirit of Christmas Parade
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BC3 Education Foundation receives $91,500 to support education initiatives
The BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. received a $20,000 gift from Northwest Savings Bank through the EITC program. (L to R): President Neupauer; Ruth Purcell, Executive Director of the BC3 Education Foundation, Inc.; Jeannie Gilkey, Branch Manager of Northwest Savings Bank; and Ben Jamieson, Senior Vice President and North Hills District Manager of Northwest Savings Bank.
The BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. announced gifts received this year totaling $91,500 from area businesses through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. Read more...
Businesses supporting BC3 through the EITC program include: Northwest Savings Bank ($20,000), Phoenix Sintered Metals ($20,000), Farmers National Bank ($15,000), NexTier Bank ($15,000), Maher Duessel ($1,000), First National Bank of Pennsylvania ($10,000), EQT Production Company ($10,000), and the PPG Industries Foundation ($500).
The gifts will benefit students in BC3’s College Within the High School program and the BC3 Center for Economic Education’s Stock Market Game program. Show less...
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BC3 presents Butler County Unified Plan for economic development
President Neupauer presented to the Zelienople Borough Council on improving economic development in Butler County with a more unified approach among businesses, agencies, and community groups. Read more...
Forth Economy Consulting of Pittsburgh will execute a nine-month economic study called the Butler County Unified Plan beginning next month. President Neupauer, who serves on the Community Development Corporation Board, will serve on a newly-created economic development steering committee to help guide the process.
The study will examine strengths and weaknesses as well as current infrastructure to attract business, especially associated with the energy sector. The goal of the study is to connect partners under a common vision and goals and create a unified economic master plan for Butler County. Show less...Article: Butler Eagle:
Economic unity is goal
Article: Butler Eagle:
Common vision could drive county’s economic growth -
BC3 faculty and administrators published
The College is proud of the many faculty members and administrators who were published throughout the year and who presented at professional conferences. Read more...
Published:
Dr. David L. Anderson
Amy M. DeVore
Michael J. Dittman
Dr. Patricia E. Mihalcin
Dr. David L. Parrott
Lou Sabina
Dr. Henry Sinopoli
Dr. Francie Spigelmyer
Dr. Case Willoughby & Dr. Francie Spigelmyer
Presented:
Susan J. Changnon
Ivory K. Dunlap & Dr. Case Willoughby
Rosemary C. Keasey & Dr. Francie Spigelmyer
Dr. Nicholas C. Neupauer, William T. O’Brien, Ruth Purcell, Gary Gulla
Show less...Detailed Citations:
2014 Faculty and Administrators: Published and Presented