Meet Bill Ziegler – Associate Professor - English

Where did you grow up? If not Richmond, how long have you lived here, and what brought you here?
I grew up in one of the small trolley suburbs outside Philadelphia. I’ve lived in Virginia for 32 years and in Fredericksburg since 1990, and I began teaching at Reynolds in 1993. Through it all, I have striven to maintain my hometown credentials: distinctive vowels and a frequently thankless devotion to the Phillies.

You play the cello. When did you start playing? How did you decide on the cello? And, finally, do you play other instruments?
I began playing the cello as a sixth grader, mainly in some hope of making the kind of music I enjoy listening to. Cello was an easy choice; it has range and expressiveness unsurpassed by any other instrument when it’s played well. After college I left it alone for more than 30 years, but I resumed taking lessons about seven years ago. It’s hard to list all the rewards: new connections and insights into the music I love hearing; appreciation for the dedication it takes to master a skill; discovering the talents of colleagues; outlets for emotional expression. Sometimes music says what not even language can.

You are quite knowledgeable about the Reynolds grounds. What got you interested in the environment?
Growing up near a city, we rarely saw more than squirrels and common songbirds, so I’ve loved having a home and a workplace where I can find creatures I used to see only in illustrations. It’s encouraging that even in relatively developed areas we can still find wild things, from raptors to reptiles. Digital cameras let me take lots of photos without the expense of film, and I began showing them off in emails and social media as a way to say, “Isn’t it amazing what we have living around us,” hoping that others will share the appreciation and preserve the diversity of living creatures. Especially the snakes. They mostly mind their own business and get no consideration.

You are getting ready to retire from Reynolds after 25 years, 3 months, two (or three) weeks, and so many hours. What are you planning to do next?
As far as I’m concerned, “planning to do” and “retirement” are mutually contradictory concepts. I haven’t thought past trying to figure how we’ll move seven or more geriatric cats to our new home.

What do you recommend for summer reading for the Reynolds community and why? 
Recommended reading: For leisure, my first choice is the mystery genre, especially series by British writers. But I also read—and highly value, given times as they are—investigative journalism in periodicals such as Harper’s, The Atlantic, and Mother Jones.

Everyone is asked the “lottery question.” If you won the Mega Millions jackpot and had unlimited funds what would you do first?
I avoid big-prize lotteries. I want to avoid the slightest risk of taking responsibility for large sums of money. (A career in the humanities has also minimized that risk).

Reynolds Culinary Arts Student Profile Meet Bria Crawford

What motivated you to study culinary arts?

My mom mainly motivated me to study culinary arts. My mom saw that I was passionate about cooking food at an early age. She suggested that I attend culinary school when I graduated high school. I of course resisted at the time but I now see she was right all along. 

Where are you in your culinary studies?

I am currently beginning my Externship for culinary arts and entering my final capstone class beginning in the summer semester. I am also three classes away from obtaining my pastry arts degree. 

What are you working on now?

Currently I am working with Chef Matt Harris at Travinia at Willow Lawn to develop my skills as a chef. He is training me in everything from line and prep work to the financials of running a restaurant. 

What is your favorite task as a culinary student?

My favorite task as a culinary student is participating in the local volunteer events. I really enjoy networking with local industry professionals and learning about events that I never knew existed before joining the program. 

What is your favorite ingredient?

My favorite ingredient right now is alcohol. I enjoy experimenting with how the addition of alcohol can make the flavors of a dish taste more complex.

Do you have a “signature dish”?

My signature dish would be Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes with a White Wine Mushroom Cream Sauce. It’s the dish that my family has me make for every major holiday. 

What would you most like to do in culinary arts when you graduate?  

My immediate goal after graduation is just to continue to learn and grow under various chefs in the industry. Ultimately, I want to own several restaurants in various cities around the US. 

What is your favorite restaurant in Richmond?

My favorite restaurant in Richmond is Secret Sandwich Society. They are a from scratch kitchen. Their pimento cheese fries with a side of roasted garlic mayo is the best!

What would you tell other potential students interested in studying culinary arts at Reynolds?

If you are passionate about learning culinary or pastry arts, I believe Reynolds has the best program in Richmond. Chef Miller is very passionate about giving us the best education in the city. The program is a lot of hard work so definitely make sure that this is something that you truly want to do.

Reynolds Earns First Place in Digital Colleges Survey Awards

On April 29 the Center for Digital Education awarded Reynolds Community College first place in the Digital Community Colleges Survey Awards, in the “Large Colleges” category which includes community colleges with an enrollment of 10,000 students or more. The Center awarded Reynolds the national first place ranking for its initiatives in digital education.

The awards reception was held in Dallas, Texas. Reynolds Vice President of Technology Dr. Mark Webster said he “enjoyed the great privilege of accepting the trophy on behalf of the college.” Dr. Webster is pictured here receiving the award from Director of the Center for Digital Education Dr. Kecia Ray.

Dr. Webster pointed out, “In their public news release announcing the winners of this national survey, the Center for Digital Education commended Reynolds for our decision to purchase laptops for faculty upon the recommendation of the Educational Technology Advisory Committee. They also applauded our program that offers students free library checkout of laptops and mobile devices, and noted how the program benefits students and helps reduce the digital divide.” 

“This was the third consecutive year Reynolds was recognized in the national top ten, and being ranked first this year is quite an honor for the college,” Dr. Webster said. “The annual survey is a good benchmark for continuous improvement, and its questions have been useful in providing guidance to Reynolds to orient technology services toward serving students while implementing best practices.”

Reynolds was also recognized for the college’s Windows 10 migration on academic computers across the college, and how the college leverages technology along with coaching to help students with developmental math though Math Central. In Reynolds submission for this survey virtually every unit at the college was mentioned in some way to describe the college’s uses of digital technology.

The Center for Digital Education’s Digital Community Colleges Survey recognizes community colleges annually for their use of technology to engage students, to collaborate with K-12 and other educational institutions, and to improve learning. Now in its thirteenth year, the Digital Community Colleges Survey analyzes how community colleges use a range of technologies to improve services to students, faculty, staff and the community at large. All accredited U.S. community colleges are eligible to participate in the Digital Community Colleges Survey within three classifications based on enrollment size.

The Center for Digital Education (CDE) is a national research and advisory institute specializing in K-12 and higher education technology trends, policy and funding. CDE provides education and industry leaders with decision support and actionable insights to help effectively incorporate new technologies in the 21st century.

Reynolds to Host MAPS Annual Member Exhibit

Reynolds Community College is pleased to announce that for the first time it will host the MidAtlantic Pastel Society (MAPS) Second Annual Judged Exhibit in the Conference Center Gallery in the Workforce Development and Conference Center on Reynolds Community College’s Parham Road Campus. The exhibit will be open from Tuesday, May 8 until Thursday, June 28.  This exhibit is an excellent opportunity for Reynolds faculty, students and staff to view soft pastels created by these talented artists. 

Show awards will be presented at a public Awards Reception to be held on Friday, May 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Conference Center Gallery. The reception is free and the community is invited.

Alain J. Picard will be judging this year’s exhibit. Alain Picard is an award-winning artist, instructor, author and speaker. His acclaimed pastel and oil paintings have been exhibited throughout the US, Europe, China and the UK. Alain travels internationally as an art instructor, demonstrator, speaker and artistic advocate for the vulnerable. Alain’s work and writing have been featured on numerous occasions in such publications as The Artist's Magazine, The Pastel Journal, and Practique des Arts. Alain has written three instructional books, including “Mastering Pastel” and “Beginning Drawing,” and stars in a growing collection of instructional art videos. 

MAPS is a not-for-profit organization of over 70 members dedicated to the promotion and greater understanding of pastels as a fine art medium.  MAPS membership includes pastelists from beginner level to award-winning, nationally recognized artists. The society provides its members with fellowship, support and growth through bimonthly programs, workshops, opportunities to exhibit and other educational training.

Honors Graduate Luncheon

Pictured here from left to right: 

Honors students Nhi Vu, Meghan Clancy, Joshua Briere, Jeremiah Meadows, Honors Faculty Coordinator Dr. Ashley L. Bourne-Richardson, and Honors student Misha Yakavenka.

Reynolds Honors students graduating in May were recognized at a luncheon held on the Parham Road campus Wednesday, April 25. Honors program students and their families, Honors program faculty, key supporters, Foundation Board Members and administrators were all invited to attend and celebrate the accomplishments of these outstanding graduates. In his welcome message President Rhodes gave the following impressive Honors program statistics:

• The Reynolds Honors program has admitted 145 students since it began in Spring 2016
• Honors students have received over $95k in scholarship funding to date
• Reynolds Honors students have been admitted to Columbia University, Virginia Tech, VCU Honors College, JMU, Emery & Henry, William & Mary, George Mason Honors College
• 23 Honors program students are graduating this spring; 5 are Honors Scholars, having completed 18 credits in Honors 

Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Kimberly Britt gave a moving message to the soon-to-be-graduates. Dr. Britt began by congratulating them on their intelligence and accomplishments, but advised that to succeed they needed more than just smarts, they would need a "tremendous desire not to fail." She offered brief profiles of Milton Hersey, Dr. Seuss, Ben Franklin, Stephen King, Oprah Winfrey, Thomas Edison and Walt Disney as those who didn't quit, but had a burning desire to succeed in spite of all odds. She then told her own story of perseverance and it is quite a story.

Honors students Meghan Clancy, Kofi Riddick and Joshua Briere spoke, giving high praise to their Honors peers and to the Reynolds Honors faculty. Joshua Briere told the story of getting a note from Professor Barbara Lytton that said, "I am excited for your future." No one had said that to him before. He took a picture of the note so he would have it with him at all times on his phone. In their own words each Honors student echoed Joshua's final comment: "My experience in the Honors Program will always be with me wherever I go throughout my life." 

Student Essay Contest Winners

Pictured here from left to right: Reynolds Development Director Marianne McGhee with contest winners Zachary Fendley - Teacher Prep (Award: Honorable Mention), Angelo Olayvar - ESL Graduate & Social Sciences (3rd Place Winner), Ivona Biondic - Middle College Graduate & Nursing (2nd Place Winner), Taylor Jennings - Nursing (1st Place Winner), and Savannah Gornik - Human Services (Honorable Mention). 

Reynolds Student Essay Contest winners were honored at a reception Friday, April 20 on the Parham Road campus. About 30 people attended which included the winners' family members, teachers and program heads.

The Student Essay Contest is sponsored by the Multicultural Enrichment Council. For the contest, students were given their choice of three topics: What Reynolds Means to Me, Why I came to Reynolds, or How Reynolds will Shape my Future. The winning essays were chosen from more than 45 contest entries. Coincidentally, winners chose to write about what Reynolds meant to them, however their essays had elements of all three topics. 

ESL Program Coordinator, Laurie Weinberg who headed up the contest, had this to say: The Student Essay Contest has been going on for some time, but after a brief hiatus of a few years, it took off in earnest about five years ago.  The stories that students share about their life experiences and how Reynolds has made a difference in their lives never fails to bring tears to the audience’s eyes.  We have been fortunate over the recent years of the contest to attract students from a variety of disciplines at the college. This year we held the reception in the renovated Georgiadis Hall lobby with Dr. Rhodes making welcoming remarks and Marianne McGhee providing closing remarks.  The cash prizes are provided by the college Foundation Office.

Meet LaTika Lee Dual Enrollment Admissions Specialist, PRC

Where did you grow up? If not Richmond, how long have you lived here, and what brought you here?
I was born in the bosom of southern hospitality in the “Hostess City of the South”, Savannah, GA. Grounded in my grandmother’s Gullah (Geechee) culture which spans along the coastal sea islands dotting the coastline of Georgia and South Carolina. My blended family “migrated” to Fairfax County when I was a senior in high school, but I have lived in the Richmond area for 20 years.

How long have you worked for Reynolds? What did you do for work before you came here?
My career bookends with Reynolds employment. In the early 2000s, I worked as a “P14” in the Office of Marketing and Public Relations for nearly four years (during the transition between Dr. S.A. Burnette) when Dr. Rhodes came on board. Then, I worked at WWBT, WCVE PBS and in local newspapers. I have been with the Office of Admissions and the Office of Dual Enrollment since 2013.

What is the best part of your job? 
Making a difference in the lives of our diverse student, faculty, and staff by helping people from all walks of life.

I hear that you like to write – stories and poetry – and that you are an avid reader. Would you be willing to share one of your poems in this Profile?
My poem "Hope" is below. I "hope" everyone enjoys reading it.

What is your favorite book and why?
The Color Purple, written by Alice Walker. It was set in rural Georgia, so I could relate to its surroundings. It was published when I was about 14 years old, so it made a profound impact on how I saw the world.  Recently, I had a chance to meet Alice Walker during her visit to Richmond in early April.

What is your favorite thing to do in Richmond and why?
I love all of the cultural festivals that are here in RVA. I especially like the Richmond Folk Festival, Down Home Family Reunion Festival, Second Street Festival and the Afrikana Film Festival.

If you won the Mega Millions jackpot and had unlimited funds what would you do first?
Education is very important to me so I would be sure that my two sons have academic support and their higher education tuition is Paid-In-Full! Then, I would seek and enroll in a Master’s Degree program (debating between Social Work and History & Material Culture) and finally, I would pledge funding to my alma mater, Norfolk State University, a historically black college, and create a merit-based endowment here at Reynolds for students in need.


HOPE

Rising due east
Amber light peeks through
an alluring prism
persuading morning dew to surrender … 
Waving a white flag like a ribbon in the sky. 

Today is the dawn of
a new beginning, a new season.
It’s the first week of spring but,
Intervals of grey skies c l o a k 
the Capitol City & play Hide n seek with the sun,
masking our celebration of syncopated
‘Easter on Parade’ fun.

Yet, Hope awakens, dancing skip to my lou,
Twirling loop-de-loop,
Twisting hula hoops.
Spring, you're my Muse …
I just want to take it all in
And B O O M,
bloom with you …
Refreshed,
Renewed.

There’s a certain je ne sais quoi that
Nurtures my soul.
Delights me, serendipity caresses me.
Your energy invigorates me
with an aura which lures me into this
spring equinox ---
like an eclipse teetering on its axis
radiating into
An unknown abyss.

The enchantment seduces me into this
Fixation on budding irises undeterred
To PoPUp like a Jack-in-the-Box
six weeks before Mother’s Day.
But, I am intrigued by 
your mystery, 
your mastery,
your mystifying green eyes that shine
like glass marbles reflecting the light 
of a mirror that hypnotizes my soul.
I can't help but gaze and stare and 
wonder what is beyond cotton-candy hyacinths
blossoming.

Reynolds Students Win at Phi Beta Lambda Leadership Conference

Reynolds students along with Professor of Economics Dr. Mel Burton attended the Virginia Phi Beta Lambda Leadership Conference held in Richmond April 13 - 15. 14 Virginia colleges and universities participated in the conference and once again, Reynolds students did very well.

The following students received awards: Derrick Tedder, 1st place, Computer Applications; Zachary Green, 2nd place in Macroeconomics and Microeconomics; Anig George, 3rd place in Macroeconomics; Chris Alport, 2nd place in Hospitality Management and 3rd place in Computer Applications. First and Second Place winners will represent Virginia Phi Beta Lambda at the National Leadership Conference in Baltimore, MD in June. Pictured here from left to right: Chris Alport, Jeannine Thorpe holding the trophy for Derek Tedder who was not in attendance, Zachary Green, Dr. Burton, and Anig George.

The Reynolds Phi Beta Lambda Chapter received the Chapter Spotlight for September, 2017 and was recognized as a Virginia PBL Honor Chapter for 2017-2018.  Dr. Burton was named Virginia Phi Beta Lambda Adviser of the Year for 2017-2018 and will be recognized at the National Leadership Conference in June.  

Colleges participating were Everest College, George Mason University, J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, James Madison University, John Tyler Community College, Longwood University, New River Community College, Radford University, Southside Virginia Community College, University of Richmond, University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia State University and Virginia Tech.

We are very proud of our dedicated and conscientious members and of Dr. Burton for his service to the college and to the students.

VCCS Celebrates Philanthropy – The Lipman Foundation

Each April, Virginia’s community colleges honor leading philanthropists from each of 23 community colleges at a special luncheon hosted by the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCCE). The 13th annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy event was held in Richmond on April 17, 2018 and recognized the outstanding contributions made to the growth and development of Virginia’s community colleges and their respective foundations. More than two dozen individuals, families, and businesses from around Virginia earned the Chancellor’s Award. Their combined contributions totaled $6 million dollars to Virginia’s community colleges.

Reynolds Community College submitted The Lipman Foundation to be one of the philanthropists recognized with this year’s Chancellor’s Award. In 1991 Eric and Jeanette Lipman made their first gift to the college. Mrs. Lipman went on to establish the Eric and Jeanette Lipman Endowed Scholarship and to create an endowment to support Reynolds’ Middle College program. In 2008, her generosity was honored through a naming dedication of the Jeanette Lipman Auditorium in the Massey Learning and Technology building on the Parham Road Campus. But, Mrs. Lipman gave more than just funding, she also gave of her personal time and talent by joining the Reynolds Educational Foundation Board in 2001. The Lipman Foundation’s latest support was a $1 million donation to extend the college’s footprint in Richmond’s East End.

Picture here left to right: Reynolds President Gary Rhodes, 

Educational Foundation Board Member Julie Gustavsson,

The Lipman Foundation - Mike Gracik,

Reynolds Development Director Marianne McGhee

The Lipmans were fervent champions of individuals determined to overcome difficult circumstances and succeed. Eric Lipman fled his native Germany to escape the Nazi Holocaust. He served in the U.S. Army and later he, along with his wife Jeanette, built a highly successful machine tool import business operating out of Richmond. Along the path of their success the couple experienced their own struggles and hardships.

“Jeanette was very much interested in helping people help themselves,” said Elizabeth Littlefield, executive director of the J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Foundation. “She saw our college as a pathway to economic independence, and provided scholarships to make sure financial resources were not a barrier.”

Ellen Robertson of the Richmond Times-Dispatch had this to say about Mrs. Lipman: “Jeanette Lipman once said that she practiced “venture philanthropy.” Although she and her husband made gifts to prominent Richmond institutions, her special passion was for causes that had little or no mechanism for funding. She then found resources to address problems.”

Eric Lipman passed away in 1992. Jeanette Lipman passed away in 2017 at the remarkable age of 102. Although they are now gone, the Lipmans and their Foundation will have a lasting impact not only on Reynolds, but on about 30 other organizations in Richmond, in Virginia and beyond.

Meet Karen Steele Curator, Reynolds Art Collection

Where did you grow up? If not Richmond, how long have you lived here, and what brought you here?
I grew up in Fairmont, West Virginia, where I attended Fairmont State University. I came to Richmond in 1968 for that most traditional of reasons: I married a man who was living here.  

How long have you worked for Reynolds? What did you do for work before you came here?
When John Fugate, who was program chair for art, called and asked me to interview for an adjunct teaching position at Reynolds in 1991, I was the Administrator-Curator of Wilton House Museum. I remember talking with him on an extension in the Museum’s basement kitchen. 
  
You are the Curator of the Reynolds Art Collection. Please tell us about your job.
My job includes identifying potential art donors, negotiating gifts, documenting all art in a catalog program, hanging art on all three campuses, working with artists and art groups who exhibit in the Conference Center Gallery to assure high quality shows, coordinating the Student Art Show. Some days, it’s just what comes along. Recently I used a hex wrench to attach sleeves to the rods we use in the Walker Hanging System. I teach art history every semester.  

Reynolds has received a number of significant donations to the art collection in the past year. What is the most important thing for faculty and staff to know about this asset?
These works are an important part of the educational mission of the college.  Not only does colorful art break down the institution feel of college buildings, it can be a critical part of teaching in many disciplines. Art teaches problem solving, or as one artist put it, problem creating. It’s a classic situation where students are forced to explore new ideas and approaches to make a successful work. Students learn the kind of flexibility in thinking that allows them to find new solutions to old problems in the workplace. 

This is an exciting time of year for you. The Annual Student Art Show is on exhibit now in the Workforce Conference Center Gallery and the Show Awards Reception will be held on Thursday, April 26? What will happen at the Awards Reception?
We will honor this year’s major donor: Chuck Scalin, who gave the college 47 of his art works. He chose 47 to represent each year of his 47 year-long career.  He and his wife Mim Golub judged the show. They will announce the Reynolds Prize (best in show) and prizes for painting and drawing.  The winning students will receive a check. John Negri will provide music. The food will be excellent.  

When you aren’t here at Reynolds working with art, what do you like to do for fun?
Turns out I’m a bit of an art and design nerd.  I sew, read, knit and design needlework. I like to travel. I look for good museums, classical music concerts, and excellent coffee in a new city.

What is your favorite thing to do in Richmond?
I like Carytown. There are fun shops and galleries with lots of interesting people to watch. I especially like the flower vendors. They bring such color to the city.  

If you won the Mega Millions jackpot what would you do first?
After all of the practical stuff, I’d book a raft trip down the Colorado through the Grand Canyon. 

Reynolds Faculty Publishes Second Edition

Reynolds Community College is pleased to announce that Assistant Dean, School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering Dr. Richard Groover has published an ambitious reference book: The Environment Almanac of Virginia, 2nd edition. 

The Environmental Almanac of Virginia, 2nd edition covers all major environmental topics relevant to the Commonwealth of Virginia. Chapters include natural resources, air quality, water quality, solid waste issues, toxics found in Virginia’s environmental, wildlife species of Virginia, and endangered species. Groover approached Frits van der Leeden, author of the first edition, to encourage him to write a second part, but the author instead encouraged Groover to take on the monumental task. Which he did.

This second edition reference book contains hundreds of pages packed with up-to-date information, more than 30 maps, charts and tables organized in a user-friendly format for quick access. Some information that is irretrievable for government sites, internet searches or current research has been distilled for the reader’s use. New topics since the first edition have been updated in this edition, such as energy strategies, Marcellus Shale deposits, uranium deposits, and alternative energy possibilities. Also new in the Second Edition is current climate change data for Virginia, information on invasive species, and updates on water quality, air pollution and environmental regulations.

According to a recent interview with Emory & Henry College, Groover’s alma mater, Groover enjoys being busy. Groover told E & H: “I’m worried about being bored. If I die tomorrow, I’ve had a really fun life!” In the course of his life he has been a scientist, a teacher, a field researcher, a government employee, a reserve deputy sheriff, a hostage negotiator, a documentary filmmaker, a National Park docent, a former member of the Governor’s Climate Change Commission for Virginia, and is a current member of the Board of Trustees for the Virginia Science Museum. 

Dr. Richard S. Groover is an aquatic ecologist. He has a PhD in Environmental Science and Public Policy from George Mason University. In addition to being an Assistant Dean at Reynolds Community College, he is a Fellow of the Virginia Academy of Science, and was a member of the Governor’s Climate and Resiliency Commission, 2014 – 2015. He has published articles in journals and other media, and has produced a number of award-winning documentary and educational films. 

Reynolds Adjunct Faculty D. Pulane Lucas, PhD Publishes Latest Book

Reynolds Community College is pleased to announce that School of Business Adjunct Faculty D. Pulane Lucas, PhD. has published her third book, God and the Self: Insights from Major Thinkers in the Western Philosophical Tradition. 

In God and the Self Dr. Lucas explores the dynamic and complex notions of God and the self from a number of philosophical perspectives. This three-part volume examines the work of Kant, Coleridge, and Nietzsche before analyzing the views and influences of Descartes, Locke, Hume, and Schleiermacher on conceptions of God and the self. A final section on self-awareness investigates the self and draws upon the works of William James and George Herbert Mead. Each essay in the volume examines a fundamental way of conceptualizing and understanding the self with a historical and theoretical perspective.

Lucas had this to say about her latest book: “I would like readers to gain an appreciation for how the philosophers sought to liberate the mind from oppressive conditions and destructive forces, and how they understood the power of thought and imagination in transforming the human experience and helping individuals and communities recognize their genius.”

Dr. Lucas joined the Reynolds faculty in spring 2014. She teaches face-to-face, hybrid, and online courses. She enjoys integrating Harvard Business School case studies into her lesson plans. Her courses include Introduction to Business, Principles of Supervision I, Principles of Management, Organizational Behavior, and Ethical Issues in Management. She states that the case method approach helps students think critically about management, administrative, and leadership dilemmas and sharpens their analytical skills as they grapple with complex, real-world business issues.

Dr. Lucas has served on several Reynolds faculty committees, including the Meta-Majors and Guided Pathways Task Force, the Business Administration Advisory Committee, the School of Business Program Assessment Committee, and the Professional Development and Renewal Committee. She also has participated in the Faculty Learning Community (Strategies for Student Engagement). She is a member of the Harvard Business School Healthcare Alumni Association and Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management (APPAM) and has been a member of the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA).

Dr. D. Pulane Lucas is a professor, author, motivational speaker and entrepreneur. She holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration (Health Policy Concentration) from Virginia Commonwealth University, a Master of Arts degree from Harvard University, a Master of Theological Studies degree from Harvard Divinity School, and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Dr. Lucas completed her undergraduate studies at California State University, East Bay.

Reynolds Culinary Arts Student Profile Meet Ed Cary

What motivated you to study culinary arts?  
I graduated from the MCV School of Pharmacy in 1988 with a Bachelors of Science in Pharmacy. I have been a retail pharmacist for the past 30 years. I have worked in a variety of setting in retail pharmacy since graduating. Most recently I was employed by Ukrops/Martins Pharmacy. When Martins decided to pull out of the Richmond area, I decided to start working part-time as a pharmacist and go back to school part-time. I decided to pursue a career in Culinary Arts. I have always had a passion for cooking. My mother was a Home Economics teacher and my father was a cook on a warship in World War II. Both of my parents taught me and my siblings how to cook a very young age.   

Where are you in your culinary studies?  
I am working towards becoming a Certified Chef in the Culinary Arts Program at Reynolds.

What are you working on now?  
This semester I am taking Fruit, Vegetable, and Starch Preparation (HRI 218),  and Soups, Stocks, and Sauces Preparation (HRI 219).

What is your favorite task as a culinary student?  
I am excelling in the all of the classes that I am taking. I have enjoyed all of the classes that I have taken thus far. I have made Dean's List every semester since starting the program in the Fall of 2016.  

What is your favorite ingredient?  
I love meat, seafood, and poultry (and all of the starches that accompany these).

Do you have a “signature dish”?  
My signature dish is Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks with rice, avocado, spring onions, and wasabi/soy sauce.

What would you most like to do in culinary arts when you graduate?  
I am schedule to complete my degree in 2019, and I plan to become the owner/co-owner of a Gourmet Food Truck in the Richmond area.  

What is your favorite restaurant in Richmond?  
My wife and I love The Iron Horse Restaurant in Ashland, VA. We go to this restaurant for all of our special occasions (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.)  

What would you tell other potential students interested in studying culinary arts at Reynolds?  
Chef Miller and Chef Rounds are attempting to take Reynolds Culinary Arts Program to a level comparable to the Culinary Arts Institute of America (CIA) and/or Johnson and Wales University Culinary Arts School. These are the top two schools for Culinary Arts in the United States of America.

Reynolds Arts Student Profile Meet Bethany Stiehm

Have you always been interested in art or did you discover your talent and passion later?
I've always been interested in art and enjoyed it from an outside perspective, but I never thought of myself as an artist until last year when I took a painting class at reynolds. Taking a painting class made me realize how accessible art really is and that anyone can make art. It gave me the confidence to explore my artistic side. 

What is your area of study at Reynolds?
My area of study is social sciences. 

What is your favorite medium?
I think it might be too early in my artistic journey to say what my favorite medium is. I'm still learning and exploring a lot when it comes to art materials. I have been loving oil paints since I started working with them and I like fabric and textiles, but I don't think I've found my favorite medium yet.

How does your art express your feelings and attitudes?
I think my art gives me an outlet to express the dreamy colors and subject matter I find myself most drawn to. It gives me an opportunity to detach from reality and live inside my own brain. 

What would you like to do with your art background in the future?
I would like to continue studying art at a four year university and find a career where I can continue to make art.

Reynolds Arts Student Profile Meet Kathrine Ramos

Have you always been interested in art or did you discover your talent and passion later?

I've always loved art, but just recently decided I wanted to make it my career path.

What is your area of study at Reynolds?
 I’m a liberal arts major hoping to move to a 4-year institution to study sequential art.

What is your favorite medium? 
My favorite medium is digital because there are so many possibilities.

How does your art express your feelings and attitudes?
I like to use my art to express my emotions in a way that can be interpreted many different ways by the viewer. I like when different people get different feelings when looking at my art.

What would you like to do with your art background in the future?
The dream is to do character design or comic illustration, but any job that has me in an artistic environment will fit me well.

What advice would you give other students interested in studying art at Reynolds?

My advice is never give up and be open to criticism! I attribute a lot of my artistic growth to my openness to criticism. Anyone can create great art, you just have to keep going no matter what bumps you find in the road!

Reynolds Honors Students Win Prestigious Awards

Meghan Clancy (AS, Social Science) was selected as the Virginia Collegiate Honors Council’s Emerging Scholar of the Year. This is a unique honor bestowed on a student who has demonstrated extraordinary potential as an emerging scholar, and who embodies the scholarship, character, and ambition associated historically with honors students and the Virginia Collegiate Honors Council (VCHC).  She will receive a $500 cash award/scholarship and complimentary conference registration to the Southern Regional Honors Council Conference in Northern Virginia where she will speak and accept her award at the VCHC dinner. Meghan has also received a National Collegiate Honors Council scholarship to fund her application for a summer Partners in the Parks trip, which will take her on a NCHC faculty-led trip to National Historical sites in New York City. The Partners program is an interdisciplinary exploration of various sites. Meghan will travel with other Honors students from 4-year programs across the country.

Michael Pittman (AS, Science) is one of only 10 students selected for a paid summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) internship at the New York State Department of Heath’s prestigious Wadsworth Center. Michael will live in Albany, New York for ten weeks and pair with a PhD mentor in a biomedical research lab to help conduct a project focused on genetic research and in cooperation with Albany Medical Center. This internship offers invaluable lab and research experience, as well as a chance to present in a student symposium at the end of the summer.

Bryanna Mountford (AS, Science) has been selected to participate in the Theoretically Interesting Molecules Consortium REU summer program at the University of Richmond, a paid internship. Bryanna will work with Dr. Kristine Nolan, a chemistry professor at U of R. This program will allow Bryanna to conduct research in Dr. Nolan’s lab with current U of R students,  and traveling internationally to Quebec City, Canada to attend the International Symposium on Macrocyclic and Supramolecular Chemistry from July 8th to July 13th. 

Reynolds Arts Student Profile Meet Mary Taylor

Have you always been interested in art or did you discover your talent and passion later?

My passion for art was discovered later, after taking Professor Mullins Art Appreciation class.  I then decided to take the painting class after trying to paint on my own.  

What is your area of study at Reynolds?

My area of study at Reynolds is Nursing.

What is your favorite medium?

My favorite medium is oil paints.

How does your art express your feelings and attitudes?

When I am painting, I am able to feel the most relaxed.  All of my problems seem to disappear when I have a paintbrush in my hand.

What would you like to do with your art background in the future?

I plan on continuing to paint and continuing taking classes at Reynolds in painting.  I want to become a better painter and artist. 

Meet Alan Crouch Assistant Dean, School of Business

Where did you grow up? If not Richmond, how long have you lived here, and what brought you here?
Born in NJ, grew up in CA and then moved back to NJ before moving to Richmond in 1973. We moved about every 3 years growing up as Dad was always seeking a more challenging position. 

What drew you to the field of Automotive Technology?
As a kid I really got into cars. I built a lot of plastic model cars and had fun painting and customizing them. In high school I was talking to a counselor and said I like cars. He said get a job at a gas station to see if you really like them. So I did and I do! 

After earning your AAS, BS and MS you started teaching at New River Community College, then went on to a career at Mitsubishi and other auto related businesses. Then you came back to teaching. What brought you back?
When I was teaching at New River Community College, I really liked it but wanted to see more of the world than just Dublin, VA. So I joined corporate America and got to see the world. I always wanted to get back to teaching at a community college to show automotive students the opportunities that the automotive field can offer. When the automotive instructor job at Reynolds came open, I jumped at it. 

You have been at Reynolds since 2008. How has it changed in the past ten years?
As a faculty member, you have to make an effort to reach out through committee work and participation in the many activities that Reynolds offers. It is easy to focus on teaching where you prepare for classes, teach and then go home. I have met many wonderful Reynolds people who have helped me connect with other campuses, schools and groups.

What is your favorite car and why?
My favorite was a car I had in high school, a 1968 Chevrolet Camaro. The movie Aloha Bobby and Rose had one and I remember the car doing a donut while the song Welcome Back My Friends from Emerson, Lake and Palmer was playing. “Come inside the shows about to start, guaranteed to blow your head apart”!

What advice do you give your students on succeeding in the automotive business?
Read/learn everything you can all the time. The industry changes almost every day and you have to keep up with the changes. There are lots of jobs in the automotive industry. Job stands for Just over broke. When you become passionate about something you turn a job into a career. There are lots of great careers in the automotive industry where you can see the world, meet a lot of great people and make a lot of money. 

What do you like to do when you aren’t working at Reynolds or being a Director at the Goochland Chamber of Commerce?
I like to play golf and ride motorcycles. Sometimes I ride my motorcycle to the golf course. I am currently working on my project car, a 1953 Mercury Custom. I hope to have it running by the end of summer. Which year is still up in the air.

Everyone gets asked the lottery question. If you won the Mega Millions jackpot what would you do first?
Build a climate controlled 20 car garage and shop eBay to start filling it up. Then build another garage for motorcycles. 

Reynolds Arts Student Profile Meet Matt Chubb

Have you always been interested in art or did you discover your talent and passion later?
I have always been interested in the arts in some fashion or another since childhood. I was involved in community theater in middle and high school which gave way to an interest in photography in college. My interest in the visual arts really bloomed after college though. I was involved in an artist circle with other young professionals where my interest really became a passion. 

What is your area of study at Reynolds? 
I do not a declared major or area of study per se, but I am taking courses in both the arts and psychology. 

What is your favorite medium? 
That's a hard one to narrow down to just one as I find different media can evoke different feelings and atmospheres depending on what I am trying to express. I find that in the studio I prefer charcoal, mostly, because it has a painterly quality that I have come to enjoy.   

How does your art express your feelings and attitudes?
Many times I will find myself drawn to very detailed work, work that has a lot straight lines and abstract forms or work that is bold, with a lot of contrast. Over time I've discovered that those tendencies spring from being detail-oriented, possessing an intense personality and experiencing some intense contrast in my own life. 

What would you like to do with your art background in the future?
I would like to use my passion for the arts to assist others in their journey toward wholeness, using art as part of the therapeutic process. I have found personally that art and beauty have been a way back to health for me and I believe I have a responsibility to grant that chance to others. 


What advice would you give other students interested in studying art at Reynolds?
Challenge yourself. Take the risk. If for no other reason that you challenge the notion that you can't draw or paint. You may find that you can. That revelation may just inspire you to challenge yourself in other areas.  Additionally, our arts faculty here at Reynolds is excellent, both in their training and in their commitment to inspiring students to explore, risk and pursue endeavors in the arts. 

Reynolds Annual Student Art Show to be Judged by Chuck Scalin

The 2018 Reynolds Student Art Show will be on display from March 24 to April 30 in the Conference Center Gallery in the Workforce Development and Conference Center on J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College’s Parham Road Campus. Faculty, staff, students and the public are invited to view paintings, drawings, digital media, mixed media and photographs created by Reynolds art students. 

Show awards will be presented at a public Awards Reception to be held on April 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Conference Center Gallery. The reception is free and the community is invited to join in the celebration of the artistic accomplishments of Reynolds’ students. 

Reynolds is pleased to have Professor emeritus and former Assistant Chair of the Communication Arts + Design Department at VCU Chuck Scalin and his wife, artist Mim Golub, as this year’s show judges. Chuck and Mim are honored to be judging this show and presenting awards to the students during the Awards Reception.

Additionally, Reynolds is pleased to have a body of Scalin’s work, “Chuck Scalin: creative pursuits 1971 – 2017” exhibited during the Awards Reception.  Eventually these works will become part of Reynolds’ permanent collection. His collection will consist of 47 examples of work produced in various mediums over the past 47 years.

Chuck has worked in many different mediums over the years and this collection will include examples of his photography, collage, assemblage, printmaking, clay and glassworks. Chuck earned his BFA and MFA degrees from both the School of the Art Institute in Chicago and Pratt Institute in New York.

He has been a practicing professional artist for over 50 years and is also a designer, collector and curator and project producer. His work has been included and received recognition in over 300 exhibitions, with 25 solo exhibitions and has works in many public and private collection both in the US and abroad.
He has been involved with the local galley scene since he moved to Richmond in 1967 and has sat on boards of non-profit galleries, including 1708 and Artspace Galleries.