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News Archives

Click on one of the links below to view a specific article:

SPRING 2010

Calling all local Artists!
Free FAFSA assistance available for DC students
Three Donnelly students feel direct effects of Haiti quake
Donnelly Associate Dean receives NADE nomination
DC receives grand to advance humanities department
DC signs articulation agreement with Hong Kong's FBICE

FALL 2009
DC honors those who have contributed to recent growthDonnelly students, staff, faculty mentor KCK students
Fourth Annual Donnelly Dash 5K Run/Walk is Nov. 7
Donnelly kicks off 60th Anniversary with Scholarship Dinner
Show your Donnelly Spirit for this year's Spirit Week
Donnelly welcomes community leader to campus
Donnelly, KCKCC sign articulation agreement
Donnelly to host panel discussion on nuclear disarmament

SUMMER 2009
KDOT sponsors summer math & science program
Donnelly's Lansing Prison Program featured in NC Register
Sen. Brownback announced as graduation speaker
Donnelly joins Facebook & Twitter

SPRING 2009
Donnelly hosts annual Multicultural Fair
Donnelly hosts two Scholarship Nights
Donnelly's LPN program continues to grow
Retirement Planning Lecture to be hosted at Donnelly

Winter 2009
Donnelly looking to reduce national recidivism rates
Alumni Association sponsors free financial lecture series
College Goal Sunday helps students with FAFSA
Donnelly's ESL program expands to meet demand
Donnelly instructor weighs in on KU-MU "Border War"

Fall 2008
Donnelly names students for Fall 2008 Honor Roll
Donnelly brings expertise to SWECC partnership
Local expert to give free lecture on status of economy
Mayor of Uruapan, Michoacan in Mexico visits Donnelly
Men's soccer team takes home first place honors
Donnelly offers six-week Scripture series
Donnelly hosts annual Scholarship Dinner

SUmmer 2008
Donnelly announces appointment of new president
Second Scholarship Dinner to honor Benedictine Sisters
First five graduates earn BA degrees at Donnelly
$2.865 million federal grant enables two new programs

 

CALLING ALL LOCAL ARTISTS! DONNELLY ANNOUNCES MONTH-LONG ART EXHIBIT

KANSAS CITY, Kan., February 19, 2010 — Donnelly College would like to announce Arts in the Heart: a month-long celebration of the arts, bringing local artists, nationally renowned poets, expert-driven workshops and an acclaimed filmmaker to its campus in the urban core of Kansas City, Kansas throughout the month of April. Events begin Tuesday, April 6, and run until Friday, April 30 (click here for full calendar of events).

The College is currently looking for local artists and photographers to display their work in the campus’ main building throughout the month of April.

Preference will be given to local artists, especially from Kansas City, Kansas, as well as artists who can participate in a “Meet our Artists” panel discussion for Donnelly students from 10:40-11:40 a.m. on Tuesday, April 6. Selected artists will also need to be available to discuss their pieces for KCK Arts Walk participants on the evening of Friday, April 9.

All selected artists, with the exception of current Donnelly students, should be prepared to frame selected 2D work or provide suitable display for 3D work. Accepted artists will be asked to submit biographical information for overall promotion and inclusion in Donnelly’s Arts in the Heart Web site.

Works should have been completed within the last two years. All media will be considered, including 2D & 3D. Installations, new media, or other media will also be considered with a digital image or proposal.

Local artists, as well as Donnelly alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends of the College are encouraged to submit their artwork, or mark their calendars to attend Donnelly’s part of the KCK Arts Walk from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 9.

How to Submit Your Artwork
To submit work, send a high-quality .jpg image to Kory Twaddle, Visual Arts Coordinator and art instructor at Donnelly, at ktwaddle@donnelly.edu. The deadline for entries is Friday, March 5.

FREE FAFSA, SCHOLARSHIP ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR DONNELLY STUDENTS THROUGH KU’S EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY CENTER

KANSAS CITY, Kan., February 15, 2010 — Although it is early in the Spring 2010 semester, Donnelly College is asking its students to look ahead and begin planning for their 2010-11 academic year. To help them plan early, the College has partnered with the University of Kansas’ Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) to offer free one-on-one FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) assistance to students every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Under the umbrella of the Federal TRIO Programs, the EOC is designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, specifically low-income and first-generation college students, with a purpose of helping them access postsecondary educational opportunities.

“Nearly 80 percent of Donnelly’s students come from low-income backgrounds and are the first in their family to attend college – a rate more than twice as high as in four-year institutions nationally,” said Belinda Ogan, Donnelly’s Director of Financial Aid. “These are exactly the groups of students the EOC serves. Their mission ties closely with Donnelly’s mission of serving those who might not otherwise be served in higher education.

“With these similarities, our partnership is a perfect fit. Both are always focused on finding new ways to increase college access and success.”

In addition to FAFSA assistance, the EOC also helps Donnelly students in their scholarship search.

“We want students to realize that there is a lot of money out there to help them achieve their educational goals,” said Gbaike Ajayi, advisor with KU’s Educational Opportunity Center. “With scholarships, it is important to start early and look often.”

“Donnelly takes aggressive measures to help our students access a college education,” said Ogan. “Our aim at Donnelly is to graduate students with little or no student loan debt. When it comes to FAFSA and scholarship applications, we want students to realize that procrastination could take thousands of dollars in financial aid out of their pockets. We encourage them to visit with an EOC advisor and be proactive in securing their financial aid for next year.”

“We know the financial aid process can be overwhelming and stressful for students,” said Ajayi. “Our hope is that through our services, they will understand the value of acting early.”

EOC services are available in Room 211 on Donnelly’s campus each Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or by appointment. To schedule an appointment, call an EOC advisor at (913) 709-6906.

For more information on KU’s Educational Opportunity Center, visit www.eoc.ku.edu.

 

THREE DONNELLY STUDENTS FEEL DIRECT EFFECTS OF THE HAITI EARTHQUAKE

KANSAS CITY, Kan., February 10, 2010 — Despite the many miles between Kansas City and Haiti, three Donnelly College students felt the effects of the January 12 earthquake.

When the monstrous earthquake hit Haiti on January 12, 2010, it crippled Port-au-Prince, the hometown of Donnelly baccalaureate student and co-founder of the Haitian Community Center of the Midwest Vesnel Francois.

“I saw the images of the earthquake on the news,” said Francois. “Immediately, I contacted my family but did not get a reply. Time stood still, my mind raced and I began to panic.”

After three long days, Francois’ family was able to contact him and he learned that his mother and brothers had survived the earthquake. Unfortunately, three of his closest cousins had not been so lucky.

“When I asked my mother what things are like in Haiti, she told me ‘it is like the end of time,’” said Francois. “I am just so grateful my mother and brothers are alive. So many were lost.

“The earthquake adds to a laundry list of issues that my country is struggling to recover from,” he added. “As part of the Haitian Community Center of the Midwest, we are calling every individual and organization in the region to help in any way possible. This is a critical moment in Haitian history.”

Many organizations have responded to this call, including Donnelly College. The College is currently organizing a relief effort that will send necessary items and funds directly to a small orphanage in the small village of Fondwa, Haiti, located in the mountains south of Port-au-Prince.

Donnelly learned of this devastated orphanage through two students within its English as a Second Language program who, like Francois, have felt the devastation of the earthquake – Sisters of St. Anthony of Fondwa, Myrlande Moise and Melicia Singelus.

“The orphanage was home to 10 Sisters of St. Anthony and approximately 65 orphans at the time of the quake,” said Sister Melicia. “The earthquake took one of our Sisters – Sister Odile– and an infant orphan named Jude. Our entire village was destroyed, which included a church, orphanage, school, guest center, health clinic, the Sisters’ convent, and all seven buildings within the University of Fondwa.”

The presidents of Donnelly’s student organizations and Father John Melnick, SSA, (religious studies instructor and Director of Donnelly’s Campus Ministry program), along with various faculty members, Francios, Sister Myrlande and Sister Melicia, have come together to lead the College’s relief effort to provide necessary supplies and raise money for the orphanage.

“Donnelly has been provided with an amazing opportunity to assist in Haiti relief efforts,” said Father Melnick. “Through the Sisters of St. Anthony, we can provide direct assistance to this orphanage and know exactly where the money and supplies will be used. No administration fees, no questions, just direct money to those who need it badly.”

Francois plans to help by traveling to Port-au-Prince in the coming months with a humanitarian group. “There is so much we can all do, whether it is through monetary contributions or giving of time and energy,” he said. “With this catastrophe behind us, we now need to look ahead and focus on rebuilding Haiti.”

If you are interested in helping the Sisters of St. Anthony of Fondwa Orphanage and contributing to Donnelly’s relief effort, please send donations to Father John Melnick, Donnelly College, 608 N. 18th Street, Kansas City, KS 66102. For more information, contact Father Melnick directly at (913) 621-8792 or jmelnick@donnelly.edu.

 

DONNELLY ASSOCIATE DEAN NOMINATED FOR VICE PRESIDENT
OF NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR DEVELOPMENTAL EDUCATION (NADE)

KANSAS CITY, Kan, Jan. 22, 2010 — Donnelly College’s Associate Dean of Preparatory Education, Dr. Teresa Kriley, has been nominated as candidate for Vice President of the National Association for Developmental Education (NADE).

NADE anticipates announcing its final officer slate in the coming week.

Kriley, who was appointed to her position at Donnelly last fall, has transformed the College’s preparatory education program in recent years. More than 75 percent of incoming Donnelly students require one or more classes in remedial English, math, writing or reading – a rate much higher than the national average.

Kriley spearheaded the program’s redesign, giving it a more intensive format, providing increased opportunities for students to test out between levels, and requiring weekly individual advising sessions for each student.

“Should I obtain the Vice President position, my focus will be on how the field of developmental education can benefit greatly from a focus on qualitative research,” said Kriley. “Students are our best resource  to figuring out what is working and what isn’t. They can help us understand why and how program components are successful.

“I believe that NADE’s focus on qualitative research projects will result in a proliferation of important data that will indicate needed reform and innovation and “exemplary models of practice” as is one of our goals.”

Donnelly’s restructured preparatory education program piloted in Fall 2008, and results were remarkable. Retention rates between the semesters have doubled and are more than 50 percent higher than the national average for these preparatory students. In addition, retention rates throughout the semester grew.

Within her doctoral program and dissertation, Kriley’s focus was on developmental/preparatory education. Her dissertation analyzed the evolution of Donnelly’s preparatory program, specifically looking at the changes made during the restructuring.

“I was able to look closely at the information gathered during my dissertation process and apply it to improve best practices here at Donnelly,”said Kriley. “My goal is to put Donnelly on the track toward becoming a national model for serving under-prepared students for the rigors of college studies.”

DONNELLY COLLEGE RECEIVES GRANT TO ADVANCE ITS HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT

KANSAS CITY, Kan., January 6, 2010 — Donnelly College is pleased to announce that it is the recipient of a $485,000 challenge grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to advance the College’s humanities department. The grant, which requires Donnelly to raise $970,000, will create three endowment funds totaling $1.34 million: Philosophy/Ethics Faculty Endowment, Sister Jerome Keeler Distinguished Lecture Series Endowment, and a Humanities Library Acquisitions Endowment.

“These NEH funds and humanities endowments will help ensure our general education program remains high-quality and highly integrated,” said Dr. Steve LaNasa, President of Donnelly. “Our mission to serve students who largely go underserved in higher education requires that we continuously update and grow our campus resources. This grant allows us to do just that.

“Most importantly, the help in funding a humanities instructor will further our faculty’s ongoing efforts to update the general curriculum and promote relevance of coursework to key issues in today’s society.”

On top of funding a humanities faculty position, this grant will help fund a distinguished lecture series. The Sister Jerome Keeler Distinguished Lecture Series, named after the College’s beloved founder, will bring external experts to the College’s campus to present topics relevant to the themes, issues and questions woven throughout Donnelly’s humanities and general education curriculums. This lecture series will build off of the College’s annual Poetry Festival event, which brought literary experts to campus and allowed Donnelly faculty and student authors to engage in dialogue and sharing.

Finally, a portion of the funds will establish a specific endowment to support library acquisitions, including two online research database services — a World History collection and Religion and Philosophy collection — and expand the Donnelly Library’s literature collection. Remaining funds will be used to install instructional technology into humanities classrooms. 

“Each component of this project provides students with a variety of benefits and humanities-related experiences in and out of the classroom, each with a purpose of encouraging student exploration and critical thinking,” said Dr. David Michael-Allen, English instructor at Donnelly and Project Director of this NEH challenge grant. “Our goal is to lead students to the realization that the humanities offer complex avenues to explore issues of today.”

If you are interested in helping Donnelly meet the challenge grant, donations may be sent to Emily Buckley, Donnelly’s Director of Development, at 608 North 18th Street, Kansas City, KS 66102. Inquiries or questions regarding the grant should also be directed to Buckley at (913) 621-8731 or ebuckley@donnelly.edu.

DONNELLY HONORS THOSE WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE COLLEGE’S RECENT GROWTH

 KANSAS CITY, Kan., Nov. 20, 2009 — Many of those who have contributed to the success of Donnelly throughout the past year gathered at the College’s annual donor recognition event, Gratia, on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 19.

Board members, donors, faculty and staff members were recognized for their contributions with a reception, food and short program.

“It’s very important to host Gratia annually with the express intent to recognize and celebrate all the people who make our mission possible,” said Emily Buckley, Director of Development at Donnelly. “Providing a private, Catholic education in the format that we do requires significant investment from so many individuals to make it work – donors, volunteers, faculty and staff.  Holding Gratia at this time of year provides the perfect opportunity to highlight our gratitude and bring the community of Donnelly supporters together.  Most importantly, Gratia also provides us with an opportunity to showcase our phenomenal students and growing campus.”

The event began with a Thanksgiving prayer from Sister Rita Killackey, OSB, Donnelly Trustee. Next, attendees enjoyed an assortment of appetizers, fresh lemonade and wine.

Bob Bartunek, Chair-Elect of the Board, gave thanks to all of this year’s donors. “Many have stepped up during the economic turndown  and recognize the important role Donnelly College plays in this community,” said Bartunek. “There are some wonderful things happening here, particularly during this 60th anniversary year. We also recognized three individuals who have had a significant impact on the College: Father Michael Hermes, John Mendez and Dr. Kevin Kelley.”

Father Hermes, current President of Bishop Ward High School, retired from the College’s Board of Trustees this year after serving as a trustee for 13 years. Throughout his tenure, he provided continued guidance in strategic decision making on behalf of Donnelly, and also served as chaplain for the Donnelly Soccer Club.

John Mendez, current Commissioner At-Large for the Unified Government of Wyandotte County, also retired after serving on the Board of Trustees for more than 20 years. Mendez, a member of Donnelly’s Class of 1974, is also a long-time Donnelly faculty member.

Finally, Dr. Kevin Kelley was honored for his six years of service to Donnelly as the College’s former Vice President and Dean of Instruction. Kelley, who retired in early November, also served as Donnelly’s Interim President from 2007-08.

Each received a gift from the Donnelly community to recognize their unwavering contribution to the College.

To learn about how you can give to Donnelly, click here or contact Emily Buckley, Director of Development, at (913) 621-8731.

DONNELLY COLLEGE SIGNS ARTICULATION AGREEMENT WITH HONG KONG’S FAITH BASED INSTITUTE OF CONTINUING EDUCATION

 KANSAS CITY, Kan., Nov. 18, 2009 — On Monday, Nov. 16, 2009, Donnelly College entered into an articulation agreement with Hong Kong’s Faith Based Institute of Continuing Education (FBICE), launching an innovative transfer program designed to provide Hong Kong students with the opportunity to reduce their cost of education while completing a high-quality bachelor’s degree at Donnelly College.

The agreement was initiated by Donnelly’s Dean of International Students, Cyrus Shadfar, and signed by Donnelly College’s President, Dr. Steve LaNasa, and the President of FBICE, Edward Lau.

“Donnelly partners well with our FBICE colleges,” said Lau. “This agreement will allow our students to obtain their degree affordably and in a timely manner while enhancing their education by studying abroad in the United States. It serves as a foundation for Donnelly’s and FBICE’s joint commitment to serve higher education needs in our communities.”

Lau and Shadfar first discussed a possible partnership between Donnelly and FBICE colleges during Shadfar’s travels to Hong Kong last spring. These initial discussions generated the articulation agreement, allowing students to begin college studies in their homeland of Hong Kong and finish the final two semesters at Donnelly College.

“Donnelly is always looking for new ways to continue its mission and is once again pioneering a new program in the region,” said Shadfar. “While continuing to focus on increasing our local recruitment efforts, we also want to expand and boost our international recruitment as well. There are many underserved students in this world, and Donnelly is reaching out to those who have the dream of continuing their education and studying in the U.S., but may be uncertain of how to make this a reality.”

Students who have completed the prescribed curriculum in Hong Kong will have all of these courses accepted toward Donnelly’s Bachelor’s of Organizational Leadership degree.

With the articulation agreement signed on Nov. 16, the team will continue to develop the program’s curriculum and recruitment plan in the coming months. Their goal is to enroll a handful of students in the first year, with hopes to eventually increase enrollment to 40 transfer students per year.

“Having a college degree is a ticket to a better future,” said Lau. “A degree paired with international experience gives students an edge over other professionals in the business world.”

To learn more about the agreement between Donnelly and FBICE, contact Cyrus Shadfar at (913) 621-8720. Visit Donnelly College on the Web at donnelly.edu.

 

DONNELLY STUDENTS, STAFF, FACULTY MENTOR KCK HIGH-SCHOOL STUDENTS THROUGH ONLINE E-MENTORING PROGRAM

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Oct. 27, 2009 — Nearly 20 Donnelly College students, faculty and staff will participate in an online mentoring program, guiding local high-school students through the trials and tribulations of the college search and application process.

This e-mentoring program is run through a local organization called YouthFriends which uses an innovative Web-based mentoring tool called MentorMail. Through MentorMail, mentors and students send an e-mail once a week discussing anything surrounding the topic of higher education.

Donnelly College signed on to the program to allow their baccalaureate students, as well as other students, faculty and staff, the opportunity to mentor a high-school student.

"Donnelly’s students and staff e-mentoring Kansas City, Kansas, high-school students is a perfect fit,” said Sandi Grimm, Director of Special Projects and Outreach for YouthFriends. “The e-mentors can understand and relate to many of the challenges that their mentees confront on a daily basis. It is more relevant to these high-school students to be mentored by people who know their community."

Betsy Gran, Service Learning Representative and Preparatory Education Program Assistant at Donnelly College, connected Donnelly with YouthFriends.

“Mentoring is so valuable to both the mentor and the mentee,” said Gran. “E-mentoring is especially beneficial when working with teens because it is seen as easy and fun rather than a chore. Just a quick, ten-minute e-mail once a week.”

All of the Kansas City, Kansas, public high-schools have some sort of MentorMail project going on. One Washington High School instructor has already seen the effects e-mentoring can have on high-school students.

“I had a class participate in the MentorMail program last year,” said Gayle Kebodeaux, chemistry instructor at Washington High School.  “The program positively changed the direction of several of the students in that class.

"In particular, Donnelly's participation in the e-mentoring program will be incredibly beneficial to my students because it gives them an opportunity to ask questions about the college process – the best way to increase educational access in my opinion. By providing KCK high-school students with a college mentor, we are showing them that college is an accessible next step in their education and instilling in them the importance of successfully finishing high school."

Donnelly’s e-mentoring program is scheduled to kick-off at the end of October and run through April 2010. MentorMail is highly monitored to ensure that both the students and mentors have an easy, safe and worthwhile experience.

To get involved in Donnelly’s YouthFriends MentorMail program, contact Betsy Gran at bgran@donnelly.edu.

To learn more about YouthFriends, visit www.youthfriends.org or contact them at (816) 268-3343.

FOURTH ANNUAL DONNELLY DASH 5K RUN/WALK IS DAYS AWAY!
Register now at www.donnelly.edu/dash

KANSAS CITY, Kan., November 3, 2009 — Donnelly College will host its Fourth Annual Donnelly Dash on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, on its campus at 608 North 18th Street in Kansas City, Kan. Registration opens at 8 a.m., with the 5K beginning at 9 a.m.

The Dash starts and ends on Donnelly’s campus then winds throughout the surrounding neighborhoods in the heart of KCK. Participants are encouraged to clock their fastest time ever on a route that is almost entirely downhill or on flat, paved roads.

Registration before the event day is just $10 ($5 for Donnelly students). Day-of registration is $15. This price includes the participants registration fee, a long-sleeved t-shirt, drawstring goodie bag and free hot, healthy breakfast.

“Whether you’re a competitive runner or looking for a casual stroll, the Dash will be a good time for all,” said Eliza Fitzpatrick, Donnelly Dash Coordinator. “We hope to see students, faculty, staff, community members and families out there on Saturday showing their support!”

The Dash also offers team registration options. A team of five-nine participants costs only $8 per person; a team of ten or more costs a flat rate of $75.

“The weather forecast could not be better – high sixties and sunny!” said Fitzpatrick. “It will be a great way to start the weekend.”

Proceeds for the Dash will go toward the College’s annual scholarship fund, as well as the College’s Healthy Student Task Force student group. 

For more information or to register for this year’s 5K Dash, visit www.donnelly.edu/dash.

DONNELLY KICKS OFF 60TH ANNIVERSARY WITH SCHOLARSHIP DINNER,
RAISING MORE THAN $126,000 IN STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Sept. 30, 2009 — Donnelly College hosted its Third Annual Scholarship Dinner honoring the Archbishops of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas on Saturday, Sept. 26. This year’s dinner raised more than $126,000 in scholarships for Donnelly students, making it the most successful Scholarship Dinner thus far.

More than 340 guests attended the event, held at the Reardon Convention Center in downtown Kansas City, Kan., including nearly 50 Donnelly students.

The dinner celebrated Donnelly’s 60 years of taking “The Road Less Traveled” and honored the Archbishops of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (Bishop George J. Donnelly and Archbishops Edward J. Hunkeler, Ignatius J. Strecker, James P. Keleher and Joseph F. Naumann) for their consistent support in helping the College reach this milestone year. Proceeds from the dinner created an Endowed Scholarship in the Archbishops’ names, and provided support to Donnelly’s annual fund.

“The five bishops of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas have each contributed to the continued success of Donnelly,” said Monsignor Thomas Tank, Honorary Chair of Donnelly’s Scholarship Dinner and pastor at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, Kan. “For 60 years, Donnelly, with the support of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, has made a private college education available to those living in the urban core of Kansas City, Kansas. It is through the scholarships raised at the annual dinner that many students are able to continue their education and achieve academic, professional and personal success.”

Donnelly students, now totaling more than 650 each semester, benefit greatly from the high levels of scholarship and financial aid options available to them at the College. Despite having the lowest hourly tuition and fees in Kansas or Missouri, ninety-two percent of Donnelly students utilized financial aid to pay for some of their college.

The Scholarship Dinner is an important part of Donnelly’s Annual Scholarship program, which has a goal to raise $350,000 to assist nearly 465 students in reaching their potential through a college education.

“For most students, cost is what stands between them and their college education,” said Robert Bartunek, Scholarship Dinner Chairman, Donnelly Trustee and lawyer at Seigfreid Bingham Levy Selzer & Gee. “Donnelly’s Scholarship Dinner is the one time each year where everyone comes together to provide scholarship dollars directly to our students, changing their lives and the lives of future generations.”

Co-emcees for the event were Donnelly alumna and community activist Delia Hernandez and FOX4-TV’s Chief Meteorologist Mike Thompson.

Hernandez, Class of 1984, has remained strongly connected to Donnelly since her graduation, volunteering her time to serve on Donnelly’s Board of Trustees and taking on an administrative role within the College for a few years.

In addition to the dinner’s emcee-duo, the night included a drawing and video presentation.

Visit www.donnelly.edu/dinner to view photos from this year’s dinner and to stay up-to-date on next year’s event, scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010.

The dinner also kicked off a series of 60th anniversary events at Donnelly. Please visit the College’s Web site at www.donnelly.edu for information on upcoming speakers, a 5K Run/Walk, Multicultural Fair and more!

 

SHOW YOUR DONNELLY SPIRIT FOR THIS YEAR’S SPIRIT WEEK, OCT. 26-29

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Oct. 20, 2009 — Donnelly’s Organization of Student Leaders (OSL) is organizing a Fall 2009 Spirit Week Oct. 26-29 that includes themed spirit days and a college-wide pep rally!

Spirit Week kicks off on Monday, Oct. 26, with “Pajama Day.” Tuesday is “Represent Your Team Day,” where the Donnelly community is encouraged to wear apparel that represents their favorite sports team. On “Way Back Wednesday,” faculty, staff and students are asked to dress in attire from the 1980s, 70s, 60s or further back. Finally, Thursday represents “Donnelly Day” where everyone is asked to wear Donnelly gear or red.

Also on Thursday, all students, faculty and staff are invited to participate in a pep rally to cheer on the DC Soccer Clubs. The pep rally will begin at 10:40 a.m. in the Meeting Room. OSL is charging an entry fee of $1 or two canned goods. Barbecue lunch will also be on sale.

**The pep rally has been rescheduled for Thursday, November 5th, 10:40 a.m.

Please support Donnelly school pride by participating in this year’s Spirit Week festivities!

DONNELLY WELCOMES COMMUNITY LEADER TO CAMPUS

KANSAS CITY, Kan, Oct. 14, 2009 — As part of Donnelly College’s 60th Anniversary Event Series, Kansas City, Kansas, community leader Richard Mabion will be speaking at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, in the College’s first floor Meeting Room.

Mabion will speak on the need to involve people of color in creating a sustainable local community, as well as discuss different events from the 1960s through today that relate to this topic.

“As child of the sixties, I endured the civil rights movement, the Vietnam conflict, and other events that I feel have rendered people of color irrelevant,” said Mabion. “My presentation will discuss how we can change this and how people need to stand up and lead others towards environmental sustainability.”

His passion for increasing the involvement of Kansas City’s diverse ethnicities in reaching this goal sustainability is something he has been working on throughout this career.

“Our country’s environmental movement will fail without the involvement of people of color in its leadership,” said Mabion.  

This event is free and open to the public. Call (913) 621-8707 with any questions about this event or other 60th Anniversary events throughout Donnelly’s 2009-10 academic year.

Please visit the College’s Web site at www.donnelly.edu for information on upcoming events such as the Donnelly Dash 5K Run/Walk, Multicultural Fair, Arts in the Heart of KC, and more!

DONNELLY COLLEGE, KCKCC SIGN ARTICULATION AGREEMENT

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Sept. 2, 2009 —Graduates of Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC) now have direct access to a four-year degree program without having to leave Wyandotte County.

Recently, KCKCC and Donnelly College entered into an articulation agreement designed to expand educational opportunities for students attending KCKCC. The agreement, called the Associate to Bachelor’s Completion (ABC) program, will allow students to seamlessly transition their credit hours from KCKCC and into Donnelly’s bachelor’s degree completion program.

“It’s a significant option for our students who want to complete a bachelor’s degree locally,” said Charles Wilson, Ph.D., Dean of Social and Behavioral Science at KCKCC who was a catalyst in helping develop the articulation agreement.

“I think it will allow for a lot of our students at the associate-science level to take their skills and training in a variety of career fields and move right into Donnelly’s program at the bachelor’s level,” he said. “This will create all kinds of opportunities for leadership and advancement.”

As a former Donnelly instructor for more than 12 years, Wilson is familiar with Donnelly’s campus and growing programming options. In addition to his instructional duties at Donnelly, Wilson also took on the role of Director of the Career Placement Center and was instrumental in the creation of the College’s Continuing Education program.

Donnelly’s Vice President and Dean of Instruction, Kevin Kelley, Ph.D., also had an active role in the development of the Associate to Bachelor’s Completion program agreement.
“As a result of our academic quality and the strong need for bachelor’s degrees based in Wyandotte County, our four-year program is growing quickly,” said Kelley. “With the accommodating course schedules, small class sizes, close proximity and substantial availability of financial support, our program will appeal to many KCKCC students.”

Steve LaNasa, Ph.D., President of Donnelly College, and Thomas Burke, Ph.D., President of KCKCC signed the agreement in August, putting it into effect this fall.

Donnelly has similar agreements with Johnson County Community College (JCCC) and Metropolitan Community Colleges.

 

PANEL DISCUSSION ON NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT TO TAKE PLACE AT DONNELLY

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Aug. 31, 2009 — Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kan., will host a panel discussion on nuclear disarmament on Thursday, Sept. 3, from 10:40 to 11:40 a.m. in the College’s 7th-floor library located at 608 North 18th Street.

The presentation, titled “KC: Building Bombs or Pursuing Peace?,” will provide attendees with information about the effects of nuclear warfare. The speakers will also discuss the local plant that produces non-nuclear parts for nuclear weapons.

A panel of four speakers will address issues surrounding the topic. Speakers include Rev. John Melnick, S.S.A., Religious Studies Instructor at Donnelly College, Maurice Copeland, former employee at the local plant, Sister Therese Bangert, SCL, and Sister Barbara McCracken, OSB.

 In addition, a video interviewing threeHiroshima, atomic-bomb survivors will be shown.

Thirty graphic posters, provided by the Hiroshima Peace Culture Foundation, are on display from now until Tuesday, Sept. 15, highlighting the nuclear weapons industry, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki.

The event is sponsored by PeaceWorks KC, an organization dedicated to ending the use of military power to achieve objectives when viable alternatives are available, and the Kansas City Chapter of Physicians for Social Responsibility.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Henry and Jane Stoever by phone at (913) 206-4088 or e-mail at janepstoever@yahoo.com.

KDOT SPONSORS A SUMMER MATH & SCIENCE PROGRAM AT DONNELLY COLLEGE
DESIGNED FOR KCK HIGH-SCHOOL STUDENTS

KANSAS CITY, Kan., July 27, 2009 — While most high-school students are spending their summer sleeping in and relaxing at the pool, 25 local high-school students chose to wake up early and spend their summer days learning about career opportunities in fields such as engineering, construction, technology and law. With a big interest in keeping their minds stimulated, and a small stipend, these unique students decided to challenge themselves by participating in Donnelly College’s Transportation, Math and Science Academy (TMaSA).

Donnelly’s TMaSA program was a result of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s (KDOT) search for a Summer Transportation Institute (STI).

“Our mission at KDOT is to address the need for a diverse workforce and to create an awareness of the career choices and opportunities that exists in the transportation industry,” said Debra Hepp, Program Consultant in KDOT’s Office of Civil Rights. “We felt that Donnelly was an excellent choice due to its location and connection to a diverse community and their mission of encouraging high-school students to consider post-secondary education.”

Donnelly faculty wrote the proposed grant and received approval for the program in April. Nearly 90 students from around the Kansas City, Kansas, area applied for one of the 25 spots available. Participants were selected based on their extracurricular activities, career and academic interests, as well as an essay submitted to Donnelly’s selection committee.

In addition to educating students about potential career opportunities within the transportation industry, this faculty-led program included four hands-on field trips. The first of these was a visit to the General Motors Assembly Plant in Kansas City, Kansas. Here, students were able to witness a vehicle being made and tested. Next, the group traveled south to the Johnson County Executive Airport where they met the chief pilot of KMBC-TV’s NewsChopper 9, Johnny Rowlands.

The group also visited the Airline History Museum located at the historic Downtown Airport in Kansas City, Mo. Finally, students paid a visit to the KDOT offices in Topeka, Kan., where they toured the building, watched a railroad safety presentation and viewed current construction maps and plans.

Students seemed pleased with the overall programming, specifically the field trips and final project.

“I would definitely recommend Donnelly’s program to other high-school students,” said Jermaine Rhone, a senior at Schlagle High School in KCK. “I plan to eventually earn my bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, so TMaSA gave me a way to sharpen some of these skills. The best part of the program was our final project where we were asked to follow specific instructions on how to build a small, robotic car. We also designed a track out of recyclable materials and had to program the car to drive on the track – it was really interesting.”

Donnelly faculty and staff were proud of the creativity shown and the progress made by each student throughout the month-long program.

“We wanted to create a program that high-school students would be interested in,” said Donette Alonzo, Senior Academic Counselor and TMaSA Program Coordinator at Donnelly. “After speaking to the students and listening to their final group presentations, I think we accomplished that.”

Hepp and Alonzo are hopeful the program will receive funding next year as well, ideally for two four-week programs – one in June and one in July – each with 25 participant spots.

To learn more about Donnelly’s 2009 TMaSA program, visit donnelly.edu/tmasa.

 

Donnelly's Lansing Prison Program featured in National Catholic Register

Education Behind Bars
Catholic College Contributes to Reducing Recidivism
BY ANTHONY FLOTT, National Catholic Register

KANSAS CITY, Kan., June 24, 2009 — Like other college students, James Shehan and Tuan Huynh have dreams of making a difference. Shehan hopes to mentor troubled youth and keep them off the streets. Huynh wants to become a biblical counselor.

Unlike other college students, Shehan and Huynh are convicted murderers.

Both are serving life sentences at Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas. But thanks to Donnelly College, a small Catholic liberal arts college in Kansas City, Kan., Shehan, Huynh and other inmates are getting a shot at redemption through education.

“There are some of us trying to make changes in our lives,” says Shehan, serving his 24th year. “We know we’ve done wrong. We’re trying to rectify the situation.

“For all my life I’d just been a quitter, only did things halfway. This was my chance to knuckle down and complete something for once in my life.”

Donnelly began the associate degree program in Lansing in 2001. And now it has help. In February, Donnelly announced that the U.S. Department of Justice provided it a $223,000 grant to help with its education of 50-plus inmates each year. The grant, spearheaded by Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., is tied to a congressional effort to cut recidivism rates in half within five years.

“Donnelly’s Lansing program can serve as a model for other prisons,” Brownback said in a release. “People in prison need to do time for their crime, but they are not without redemption.”

Mission of Service
Postsecondary correctional education once was commonplace. That changed radically in 1994, notes a January report by the Correctional Association of New York, when President Bill Clinton signed the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act. Among other things, it prohibited awarding Pell Grants to federal or state inmates. Nearly all of the nation’s 350 postsecondary correctional education programs closed — despite the various benefits of its programs. Donnelly points to federal analyses indicating that higher education in prisons yields at least $2 in public savings for every dollar spent. Recidivism also is reduced.
Yet, Donnelly estimates, today it is one of less than a dozen U.S. colleges with a prison presence.

Ken Gibson, Donnelly president emeritus, founder and coordinator of the Lansing program, said funding was the greatest obstacle to initiating the program. Costs are kept minimal in part due to the partnership with and in-kind contributions provided by the Lansing facility. Initially, other expenses were covered in thirds, split among inmates who work (or their families), participating employers and Donnelly. But employers later discontinued reimbursements, leaving Donnelly to cover two-thirds of the expenses.

“One miracle was getting the prison accredited as a college campus,” said Gibson. “The second miracle was keeping the doors open. When employers backed out, we thought we were finished. But we were able to talk to some more people and get some more help.”
The grant will support program operations for the next three years. Gibson said that will allow the college to raise funds for a sustaining endowment.

Donnelly offers Lansing inmates one of three associate degrees with an emphasis on business courses. There’s a range of other classes, too.

Shehan, a 2005 Donnelly alumnus, has taken music appreciation, Greek and Roman mythology and American history. Huynh, a 31-year-old inmate serving a life sentence for murder committed when he was 18, has taken 12 classes, including income tax and physical science this past semester. He is eligible for parole in May 2011.

About 20 faculty members have taught at the prison. Most classes are held in medium security and can be broadcast to prisoners in the maximum and minimum facilities.

“The inmates know that education is a way for them to get out of prison. It’s always a help with the parole board,” said Gibson. “If they get the degree, it gives them the opportunity once they get out to get a decent job to stay out of prison.”

Shehan is working toward a bachelor’s degree in child or adolescent psychology, taking distance classes through Louisiana State University — a challenge, given the prison’s lack of a modern library and Internet connectivity. If he gets out, he hopes to turn others from their errant ways.

Does the program work? Donnelly points out that of the more than 325 inmates who have taken classes, 14 have earned associate degrees. Of the 155 former students who have been released from prison, just three have been reconvicted of another crime and returned to prison. According to a 2002 Bureau of Justice Statistics report that Donnelly cites, 25% of inmates nationally are resentenced to prison for a new crime within three years of release.
One criminal justice researcher, though, says reducing recidivism takes more than just education.

T. Hank Robinson is a professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Juvenile Justice Institute, which conducted the “Recidivism Reduction Treatment Center Study” that identified five different factors affecting recidivism: education/employment, substance abuse, mental health, housing and support of social networks.

“The more stable a person is the less likely it is that they’re going to commit crimes or get in trouble,” said Robinson.

Huynh agrees. “A guy can earn a master’s, a bachelor’s, a low-level associate’s, but if he doesn’t apply what he learned,” he said, “education is irrelevant. If he prides himself with what he has learned, then it’s effective.”

Then why is Donnelly’s program so successful?

“It really may not be their increased ability to read or write or to do plumbing,” said Robinson. “It may be all the life skills and all the life organizational techniques and tools that people pick up when they go through the program.”

Gibson indicates that Donnelly’s program does go beyond academics. As a faith-based college, he notes, Donnelly talks “to them about the importance of faith. It’s the same kind of position they take in a 12-step program. You have to have a higher being that helps you out, and you can’t do it by yourself.”

Click here to view the original article.

 

DONNELLY COLLEGE ANNOUNCES SENATOR SAM BROWNBACK AS COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER

KANSAS CITY, Kan., May 14, 2009 — Donnelly College is pleased to announce Senator Sam Brownback as the keynote speaker for this year’s commencement ceremony scheduled for 4:00 p.m., Saturday, May 16, at the Jack Reardon Convention Center in Kansas City, Kan.

Senator Brownback has supported Donnelly through many endeavors, recently helping the College secure a Department of Justice grant for its college degree program at Lansing Correctional Facility.

“We are honored to have Senator Brownback share in this year’s celebration with our Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, and families and friends of our graduates,” said Donnelly’s president, Steve LaNasa. “Graduations are always a momentous occasion, but Donnelly’s are especially moving. Each year, nearly 90 percent of our graduates tend to be first-generation students, making our commencement exercises a tremendous celebration for students and family alike, as well as for our entire community.”

Donnelly expects 34 graduates to be earning a mix of associate and bachelor’s degrees, marking the second graduating class for the College’s bachelor’s degree program.

In addition to Senator Brownback, George Breidenthal, a Donnelly alumnus, will be speaking as the College’s Board of Trustees President.

“As a Donnelly graduate myself, I am looking forward to speaking to the Class of 2009 and, hopefully, giving them some words of inspiration,” said Breidenthal. “Graduation is a truly transforming moment in the lives of our students particularly because many of them never thought they could obtain a college degree. I was one of them earlier in my life, and have Donnelly to thank for many of the successes I’ve experienced.”

Two representatives from this year’s graduating class will also be speaking – Rachel Leonard and David Stanley. Leonard is graduating with her Associate of Arts degree and is currently enrolled in summer courses leading to a bachelor’s degree at the University of Missouri Kansas City. From there, she plans to attend Harvard Law School and, eventually, hopes to become a judge.

“As a student who is determined to make an impact on my instructors and fellow classmates, I am truly honored to have been selected as one of this year’s commencement speakers,” said Leonard. “My mother, husband and four children are all so proud of me and plan to be in attendance on Saturday.”

David Stanley will be graduating from Donnelly with his Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Leadership. Stanley is already putting his degree to work as a founder of Joshua Tent, an urban ministry church that reaches out to underprivileged youth in the urban core of Kansas City, Kan.

"I am proud to speak at this year’s graduation ceremony, not just because I am the only one in my family to receive a college degree, but also because I have received it from such a wonderful institution,” said Stanley. “My experiences at Donnelly were life-changing and I am forever grateful to everyone who has compassionately invested so much in me and in all of my peers throughout the past four years."

These speakers will be joined in the graduation ceremony by Most Rev. Joseph Naumann, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, as well as Trustees of the college and key members from the Alumni Association.

The graduation event is free and open to friends and families, as well as community members interested in hearing our speakers.

DONNELLY COLLEGE JOINS BOTH FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

KANSAS CITY, Kan., May 1, 2009 — Realizing the importance of online accessibility, Donnelly College has created profiles on two of the most popular social networking sites – Facebook and Twitter. The College plans to use these sites as additional means of communication to better connect their students, faculty, staff and community.

With more than 30,000 alumni throughout the world, Facebook and Twitter help break down the communication barriers between the Alumni Association and Donnelly alumni. “Facebook has become a great way for us to reach out to alumni, particularly recent graduates,” said Roger Berg, Donnelly’s Alumni Relations Coordinator. “These sites provide an easy way for them to stay in touch with their former classmates and keep them up-to-date with campus news and events.”

The Facebook alumni group, Donnelly College Alumni Association, currently has 65 members. In addition to this group, the College also created a “fanpage.” Unlike the typical Facebook page, fanpages are visible to unregistered people and are indexed.

In addition to the efforts on Facebook, Donnelly has recognized Twitter as another communication resource.

“Twitter will give Donnelly a new platform, allowing us to both strengthen and build our network,” said Jennifer Price, Marketing Coordinator for Donnelly. “Donnelly has been serving the urban core of Kansas City, Kansas for nearly 60 years, yet many in the Kansas City metro don’t know about us. These sites will allow the College to become more visible for those wanting to learn more about us at a glance.”

Within a few weeks, Donnelly has already acquired more than 30 fans on their Facebook fanpage.

The College’s Twitter account, found at www.twitter.com/DonnellyCollege, is fairly new, with only five “followers” thus far.

To become a Donnelly College follower on Twitter, simply visit www.twitter.com/DonnellyCollege and click the “Join today!” button at the top of the page.

To join either of the Donnelly Facebook groups, simply go to the Facebook homepage, www.facebook.com, and create your own account. Once you’ve done this, simply type “Donnelly College” into the search bar and join.

If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Price at (913) 621-8707 or jprice@donnelly.edu.

Donnelly College Hosts annual Multicultural Fair; more than 30 regions represented

KANSAS CITY, Kan., April 21, 2009 — Students at Donnelly College were busy preparing for the annual Multicultural Fair, scheduled from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Friday, April 24. More than 30 countries and regions were represented at booths throughout the College’s first floor meeting room. The event was free and open to the public.

With 86 percent of its student population from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, Donnelly College provides the perfect setting for a Multicultural Fair unlike any other in the Kansas City area.

“The Multicultural Fair is a great way to showcase our international student population, as well as our local students’ traditions, food and music,” said Betsy Gran, International Admissions Representative at Donnelly. “By showing off the different countries represented here, Donnelly College is sharing the richness of human experience with its community while serving as a wonderful reminder of the breadth of Donnelly’s impact on Kansas City.”

Students set up and operated their particular booths, serving food from their country of origin. In addition to free food, the students also displayed artifacts, photos and traditional garments showcasing their country’s beauty and history. Throughout the event, students took part in cultural music and dance performances.

The purpose of this event was to allow the students, faculty, staff and community members to learn about all of the different cultures represented at the College. Students were charged with creating the displays for their particular country, as well as writing and designing an informational brochure to hand out to attendees.

Regions represented at this year’s Multicultural Fair included the following: Afghanistan, Africa, Bhutan, Brazil, Burma, Central America, Democratic Republic of Congo, Dominican Republic, Eritrea, France, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Iran, Iraq, Karen State, Kenya, Liberia, Mexico, Nepal, Panama, Peru, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, South America, South Korea, Sudan, Tanzania, Turkey and Vietnam. There was even a booth set up honoring the traditions of the state of Kansas, as requested by some of the students.

For more information about the event, contact the International Admissions Office of Donnelly College at (913) 621-8720 or e-mail Jennifer Price at jprice@donnelly.edu.

Donnelly College continues to increase access to education by hosting two Scholarship Nights

KANSAS CITY, Kan., March 24, 2009 — Donnelly College hosted two Scholarship Nights designed to help students apply for financial aid and scholarships. The events were scheduled from 6 to 7 p.m., Thursday, March 26, and Wednesday, April 1, in the College’s main building.

Admissions representatives were on-hand to explain available scholarships and assist in the application process. High-school seniors graduating this May and planning to enroll full-time at Donnelly in Fall 2009 were encouraged to attend. Those students with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above were guaranteed to receive a scholarship of at least $500 by attending one of the two events.

“This event allows students to begin the tedious process of applying for financial aid in a supportive environment,” said Belinda Ogan, Donnelly’s Director of Financial Aid. “Without the help of financial aid, college would be not be accessible for many students.”

In Fall 2008, 95 percent of Donnelly’s first-time, full-time incoming freshman students received grant aid. According to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 63 percent of all undergraduates enrolled in 2003–04 received some type of financial aid. Specifically, 83 percent of all undergraduates attending private not-for-profit 4-year institutions, like Donnelly, received aid.

“Donnelly prides itself on making financial aid available to its students,” said Amber Bloomfield-Martinez, Coordinator of Admissions at the College. “We can guarantee that students fulfilling the 2.5 cumulative GPA requirement will walk away with a scholarship, getting them that much closer to their goal of becoming a college graduate.”

Donnelly College’s LPN program continues to grow, enrolls third class

KANSAS CITY, Kan., March 19, 2009 — The Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program at Donnelly College has continued to grow as it now prepares to enroll its third class of students. The program has two different start-dates, one in January and one in June. For the upcoming session, scheduled to begin in June 2009, the College is accepting applications until Wednesday, April 1.

Donnelly’s LPN program was approved by the State Board of Nursing in March 2008, beginning the first cohort in June 2008 and the second in January 2009.

Cheryl Ray, member of the first LPN class, can not say enough about her experience in the program. “Donnelly has a learning environment unlike any other,” said Ray. “The students and faculty are like family and the small class sizes allow for more direct interaction with professors. I found myself continually achieving success in the coursework, boosting my self-esteem and my desire to work even harder.”

In January, the program location moved from the main building on the Donnelly campus and into the College’s second academic building, Marian Hall. Last May, the College began the first phase of renovations of  converting the first two floors into classrooms, clinical space, physiology and anatomy labs.

To learn more about the program, visit www.donnelly.edu/lpn. If you are interested in becoming an LPN student at Donnelly, contact the Office of Admissions at (913) 621-8700 or admissions@donnelly.edu.

Retirement planning lecture to be hosted by Donnelly College

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Mar. 25, 2009 — Donnelly College’s Alumni Association is offering a free, monthly financial lecture series January through April. The final lecture in the “The Economy and You” series will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, April 18, and will focus on retirement planning. Lectures are open to the community and will be held in the College’s first floor meeting room. It is not necessary to have attended previous lectures.

The April session, titled “Retirement Planning,” will help attendees understand how to begin planning for retirement early.

Leading the presentation is Donnelly alumnus and faculty member Steve Modrcin. Throughout the past decade, Modrcin has taught classes in the subjects of personal finance, business management and economics at both the undergraduate and graduate levels at Donnelly College, Ottawa University and Webster University. He also helped develop curriculum for Donnelly’s Organizational Leadership baccalaureate program, which successfully graduated its first class in May 2008.

Modrcin holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting, as well as a master’s degree in organizational management, and is a Donnelly College alumnus. He retired from a career in administration at UPS before he began teaching.

In November 2008, Modrcin held a lecture titled “A Walk Down Wall Street” for Donnelly students and faculty, as well as the community at large. This presentation focused on the economy, proposed bail outs and investment tips. The event was a huge success, so much so another lecture was held two weeks later.

“Of all the financial seminars I’ve attended, this was certainly the most informative,” said Dan Braum, Donnelly College Alumni Board Chairman. “We felt this would be a great topic to expand upon for our alumni, students and community.”

The Donnelly Alumni Association is actively planning Saturday lecture series throughout the 2009 year. Check the College’s official website, www.donnelly.edu, for announcements about upcoming seminars.

“The Donnelly Alumni board believes an ongoing lecture series such as this will be a tremendous service and opportunity to our alumni as well as our surrounding communities,” said Roger Berg, Donnelly College Alumni Relations Coordinator. The board is currently planning the next two 4-month series for 2009.

Contact Roger Berg at (913) 621-8744 or rberg@donnelly.edu with questions about the seminar series or to connect with the Donnelly Alumni Association.

Donnelly College looking to reduce national recidivism rates

KANSAS CITY, Kan., March 12, 2009 — A small college in Kansas City is making a big impact on those who may need it most. As a college dedicated to helping those who might otherwise go unserved, Donnelly proudly announces it has received a $223,000 grant from the Department of Justice to support its Associate Degree satellite program at Lansing Correctional Facility, educating more than 50 inmates each year with college classes in efforts to reduce national recidivism rates. Senator Sam Brownback of Kansas, who helped to secure these funds, visited Donnelly College Friday, February 27, 2009, for a press conference to discuss the grant and the Lansing program. The grant will help support program operations for the next three years.

 “Donnelly's program at Lansing is simply an extension of our original mission to serve those who might otherwise go unserved,” said Donnelly President Dr. Steve LaNasa. “We know that education exerts a powerful effect on the lives of those that pursue it.  The Lansing program recognizes that education can help to transform the lives of these students, and that those who make the commitment deserve the chance to pursue a college education.”

Dr. Ken Gibson, Donnelly president emeritus and coordinator of the Lansing program, spoke about how the program began under his tenure as president, noting in part the program’s philosophical basis in numerous national studies that indicate that education is the single most effective tool to prevent incarcerated individuals from committing crimes after their release from prison – reducing recidivism.

Since 2001, when Donnelly first began offering college courses at Lansing Correctional Facility, the program has clearly demonstrated the positive effects of education on prisoners.  Of the more than 325 inmates that have taken classes, 14 have earned associates degrees and 155 (or 48% of former students) have been released from prison. Of those 155, only 3 – just 2% -- have been reconvicted of a crime and are back in prison.  Comparatively, 25% of inmates nationally are resentenced to prison for a new crime within 3 years of release, according to a 2002 Bureau of Justice Statistics Report. 

Senator Brownback announced Congress’ efforts to try to cut the national recidivism rate in half within five years, and noted the accomplishment of the recent passing of the Second Chance Act as a step in that direction.

“Donnelly’s Lansing program can serve as a model for other prisons,” said Senator Brownback. “People in prison need to do time for their crime, but they are not without redemption. We have a problem when we start looking at people as problems.”
Donnelly’s program is one of less than dozen of its nature that exist in the U.S. (one of two in the state of Kansas), but the College hopes its program will serve as a cost-efficient, effective model to help lower recidivism across the country. Federal analyses have indicated that higher education in prisons yields at least $2 in public savings for every dollar spent. The successful recidivism rates of Donnelly’s prison education program prove itself as a model to not only save taxpayers a significant amount of dollars in the criminal justice system, but also improve communities. 
          
 “I am very proud and grateful for the extraordinary efforts of Donnelly College to provide higher educational opportunities to those at the Lansing prison,” said Archbishop Joseph Nauman of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. “For Jesus and His Church, there are no ‘throw away’ lives.  In the Gospel, Jesus specifically speaks about the importance of visiting those in prison.  The Donnelly College prison program provides the inmates an opportunity to improve their abilities, expand their knowledge and prepare themselves to lead productive lives after release from prison.” 

Lansing Correctional Facility’s warden, Dave McKune, noted the importance of this chance for inmates to continue their education. “Being able to take college classes increases their self-worth.  For many it’s the first time someone has believed in them.”

Former students also feel the value of their education experience with the program. “If a person has any type of past criminal record, a college degree is essential,” one student said. “It is the only thing that gives us a chance to ‘balance the scale’ in the eyes of potential employers.”

The Department of Justice grant provides much-needed support for the program, which has ongoing needs for scholarships and program operation.  Inmates pay a third of the hourly tuition to demonstrate commitment and personal investment, but additional funding must support the remaining tuition and program costs, which are kept minimal in part due to the partnership and in-kind contributions provided by the administration of Lansing Correctional Facility.

“We are truly indebted to the Department of Justice and the support of Sen. Brownback; each has made it possible to continue this ministry for several more years ensuring that additional students will benefit from our work,” LaNasa said.

To find out more about this program or about volunteering, please contact Roger Berg, Donnelly Volunteer Coordinator, at rberg@donnelly.edu or 913-621-8744. Click here for more information about the program and its impact on inmates at Lansing Correctional Facility.

DONNELLY COLLEGE SPONSORS FREE FINANCIAL LECTURE SERIES

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Jan. 12, 2009 — Donnelly College’s Alumni Association will be offering a free, monthly financial lecture series beginning Saturday, Jan. 17. Lectures are open to the community and will be held in the College’s first floor meeting room.

Faculty member and financial expert Steve Modrcin will be leading the series, scheduled to take place from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month from January through April (Jan. 17, Feb. 21, Mar. 21 and Apr. 18).

Each of the lectures will focus on a different finance-related topic. The January session will cover Wall Street and the current status of the United States economy. February’s session is set to focus on personal finance, March will cover financial planning, and the final session will address retirement planning.

“I want people to leave these seminars with an increased knowledge of what is going on in our economy,” said Modrcin. “I hope to arm listeners with the tools they need to make the best financial decisions. My strategy is to make it fun by using real-world examples rather than charts and tables alone.”

Throughout the past decade, Modrcin has taught classes in the subjects of personal finance, business management and economics at both the undergraduate and graduate levels at Donnelly College, Ottawa University and Webster University. He also helped develop curriculum for Donnelly’s Organizational Leadership baccalaureate program, which successfully graduated its first class in May 2008. Modrcin holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting, as well as a master’s degree in organizational management, and is a Donnelly College alumnus. He retired from a career in administration at UPS before beginning teaching.

In early November, Modrcin held a lecture titled “A Walk Down Wall Street” for Donnelly students and faculty, as well as the community at large. This presentation focused on the economy, proposed bail outs and investment tips. The event was a huge success, so much so another lecture was held two weeks later.

“Of all the financial seminars I’ve attended, this was certainly the most informative,” said Dan Braum, Donnelly College Alumni Board Chairman. “We felt this would be a great topic to expand upon for our alumni, students and community.”

The Donnelly Alumni Association is actively planning Saturday lecture series throughout the 2009 year.

“The Donnelly Alumni board believes an ongoing lecture series such as this will be a tremendous service and opportunity for our alumni as well as our surrounding communities,” said Roger Berg, Donnelly College Alumni Relations Coordinator.

Contact Roger Berg at (913) 621-8744 or rberg@donnelly.edu with questions about the seminar series or to connect with the Donnelly Alumni Association.

 

COLLEGE GOAL SUNDAY HELPS HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS APPLY FOR FEDERAL AID

College Goal Sunday was held on Feb. 8, 2-4 p.m., at Donnelly College and Kansas City Kansas Community College. High school seniors and their parents were invited to attend one of the sites to get assistance in completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Financial aid professionals were on hand to assist and answer questions.

Four $500 scholarships were awarded at each site in a drawing for those who attended.

Participants were asked to bring Social Security card, driver’s license, 2008 income tax return, 2008 W-2 forms and other records of money earned, 2008 untaxed income records, latest bank statement, 2008 investment records, and alien registration card (if not a U.S. citizen).

“It’s essential that parents bring all the required information so that they can complete the forms accurately and get them sent in early,” said Belinda Ogan, financial aid director at Donnelly.

The program was free. It was supported by the Lumina Foundation and coordinated by the Kansas Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.

 

DONNELLY COLLEGE’S ESL PROGRAM EXPANDS TO MEET GROWING DEMAND

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Jan. 6, 2009 — Donnelly College has found the need to expand its ESL programming to meet growing demand. Locally, the number of non-English speaking households in Kansas City is on the rise, reaching 8.7 percent in 2007, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey.  In Wyandotte County, the number jumped from 15.6 percent to 19.7 percent in 2005. 

Further, Donnelly has witnessed an increase in international students, locally reflecting a national trend.  The Institute of International Education recently announced a dramatic increase in the number of international students enrolled in American colleges in 2007, as reported in The Chronicle of Higher Education.  The seven percent increase was the largest one-year jump in decades, according to the Institute, caused by more generous student visa policies and government support, a weak U.S. dollar and a rising middle class in key source countries.  Nationally, this increase has resulted in a 23.5 percent increase in Intensive English programs.

In response to this need, Donnelly has implemented several measures to increase accessibility to its English as a Second Language (ESL) program. First, the College established an open, flexible enrollment schedule to better serve incoming students. Instead of beginning classes each semester, Donnelly has raised the bar by offering new start dates on the 12th of every month for each of the skill levels: Beginning, Elementary, Intermediate and Advanced. By accommodating students at any level of English-speaking ability at any time of the year, Donnelly has opened doors for many international immigrants and non-English speaking U.S. residents. Students’ skills are assessed regularly and they are able to advance through the program more quickly and at their own pace.

The College has not only expanded its ESL program options, it has also extended its recruiting efforts to include international students, with a particular focus on students in South Korea, Nepal, India, Kenya and Taiwan. In mid-December, Cyrus Shadfar, Associate Dean of Preparatory Studies at Donnelly, traveled to South Korea to recruit prospective students and visit with former students.

“International recruiting has greatly contributed to the expansion of our ESL program,” said Shadfar. “With programs set up to accommodate almost any schedule, Donnelly makes it possible for students to finish classes, continue their education and begin their careers without a language barrier standing in their way.”

Donnelly has consistently demonstrated expertise in ESL education. Since the program’s founding in 1971, the College has served more than 30,000 students from across the world and Kansas City metropolitan area. Currently, the ESL program reaches more than 400 students each year; one-third of these students are international and two-thirds are non-English speaking U.S. residents.

“The strength of our program is its intensive nature,” said Kevin Kelley, Ph.D., Vice President and Dean of Instruction at Donnelly. Students enrolled in the daytime program attend classes 20 hours each week, while those enrolled in night classes attend 12 hours each week.

ESL is just one part of the College’s list of existing accredited academic programs. “We’ve been building our ESL program for nearly 40 years,” said Kelley. “As the region’s ESL pioneer, Donnelly plans to continue to increase accessibility and meet the needs of our current and prospective students.”

Donnelly’s ESL program has not only given back to Wyandotte County, but to the lives of many students both international and local.

“I wanted to improve my English skills in order to get a master’s degree in public health in my country (Mali),” said Fatour Ba, former ESL student. “The instructors at Donnelly want to see their students succeed, and the small classes help us learn more quickly.”  Ba is now a medical doctor in Mali.

“When I first came to Donnelly, all I wanted to do was learn English,” said Paola Zapata, third-year international student.  “Because I had such a phenomenal experience in the ESL program, I decided to stay at Donnelly and continue my education instead of returning home to Bolivia. I began by taking classes towards my associate degree, but now I plan to go on to obtain my bachelor’s degree here. Donnelly has become my new family and my home.”

The next session of ESL begins on Monday, January 12, for all four skill levels: Beginning, Elementary, Intermediate and Advanced. Enroll now by contacting Betsy Gran at
(913) 621-8721.

 

DONNELLY COLLEGE NAMES STUDENTS FOR FALL 2008 DEAN’S LIST AND
HONOR ROLL

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Jan. 8, 2009 — Donnelly College is pleased to recognize those students who have achieved Honor Roll status for the fall semester of 2008.

The Dean’s List requires the student to maintain a 4.0 grade point average while carrying at least 9 credit hours of classes.  Donnelly’s Fall 2008 Dean’s List consists of the following students in pursuit of their associate degrees: Jacquelene DeLeon, Matthia Dukes, Karla Gomez, Jessica Salgado, Theresa Sanders, Olessya Solovev, Kingsley Ubah and Bertha Villegas. Students achieving Dean’s List status who are in pursuit of their bachelor’s degrees include the following: Michelle Cooper.

The Honor Roll requires the student to maintain a 3.50 – 3.99 grade point average while carrying at least 9 credit hours of classes.  The College’s Fall 2008 Honor Roll consists of the following students in pursuit of their associate degrees: Emmanuel Acheampong, Nabi Agzamov, Jaime Arreola, Sabrina Avila, Jorge Avila Castaneda, Gerika Berry, Amanda Cox, Jeffrey Davidson, Eric Del Toro, Fred Del Toro, Isaac Falcon, Sara Fuentes, Josphine Gathee, Christina Harcharik, Susana Hernandez, Malaika Jackson, Khaira Khalil, Rachel Leonard, Liliana Lopez, Melissa Lopez, Paulina Martinez-Chio, Ahreum Oh, Estevan Ortiz, Mark Patino, Melissa Reynolds, Miguel Rodriguez, Jessica Sales, Stephanie Scott, Malory Stark, Cynthia Valles, Alain Villalpando and Catty Yang. Students achieving Honor Roll status who are in pursuit of their bachelor’s degrees include the following: Kimberly Mendez, Laura Mendez and Camille Shorts.

 

DONNELLY INSTRUCTOR WEIGHS IN ON KU-MU "BORDER WAR"

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Dec. 23, 2008— Steve Jansen, Ph.D., Donnelly history instructor and Program Coordinator for the Associate Degree program at Lansing Correctional Facility, recently appeared in the television documentary, "Border War." The documentary was produced by local sports network, Metro Sports, and aired Nov. 26-27.

The documentary detailed the historic roots of the Kansas-Missouri rivalry, beginning with the guerilla combat of the pre-Civil War America, and continuing today on the playing fields of athletic competition.

As one of the program's main commentators, Jansen focused his remarks on the history of Kansas and Missouri throughout the late 1800s.

Metro Sports contacted Jansen about the documentary in December 2007 because of his expertise in the field of United States history. Jansen holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in 20th Century U.S. History. His expertise stems not only from his academic degree, but also his 22 years of experience working as the director of the Watkins Community Museum in Lawrence.

Although his loyalties were not discussed in the documentary, Jansen admits that he is a devoted Jayhawk. "I reside in Lawrence," said Jansen. "I graduated from KU, my two children went to KU for their bachelor's degrees, and my wife currently works at the university. I would say that makes us definite Jayhawk fans."

To view the trailer for this documentary or to learn more, click here.

 

DONNELLY COLLEGE BRINGS DEDICATION, EXPERTISE TO SWECC PARTNERSHIP

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Dec. 4, 2008—The partnership that supports the Southwest Early College Campus (SWECC) is pleased to announce the addition of a sixth organization to our consortium. Effective immediately, Donnelly College joins the Kansas City, Missouri School District, the Kansas City Area Life Sciences Institute (KCALSI), Kansas City’s Partnership for Regional Educational Preparation (PREP-KC), the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), and the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation in their Southwest Early College Campus Partnership.  The SWECC consortium works together on all aspects of school design and operation with the goal of increasing college preparation, college-going and college completion for Kansas City’s urban students.

The Early College model, in use in almost 160 high schools across the country, integrates rigorous college coursework inside the four-year high school experience. The goal of this innovative school is to prepare Kansas City youth to successfully complete a four-year college degree and pursue rewarding careers in Mathematics, Engineering, Technology, and Science (METS) using a project-based curriculum with extended day and extended year opportunities. Students at SWECC, many of whom are first-generation college goers, will have an opportunity to earn significant college credit before graduating from high school. 

The involvement of Donnelly College, whose faculty and staff have promoted college access and provided affordable education to urban students for nearly 60 years, will substantially assist to ensure students succeed and realize this goal. Located in the heart of Kansas City, Kan., Donnelly is an independent, coeducational institution founded by the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.  The original mission of the college, to “focus on those who might not otherwise be served,” remains strong today and serves as a valuable addition to the SWECC.

 “This partnership is a perfect fit for both Donnelly College and the SWECC,” said Steve LaNasa, Ph.D., President of Donnelly College. “Both focus on urban students in hopes to increase access to higher education. Together we can reach more students in new ways.”

The Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation has successfully opened more than a dozen Early College Schools, and SWECC is their first Early College School in the Midwest.  SWECC is an open-enrollment, math and science focused school within the Kansas City, Missouri School District. It will join the national movement of schools designed to better prepare all students in the areas of METS and college success.  The school, which ultimately will serve students in grades 6 – 12, opened its doors in August, welcoming 240 students enrolled in the sixth or ninth grade. To learn more about SWECC, visit the PREP-KC website to view a brief DVD about the school (www.prepkc.org) or at the Kansas City, Missouri School District website (www.kcmsd.net).

 

LOCAL EXPERT TO GIVE FREE LECTURE ON STATUS OF ECONOMY

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Nov. 3, 2008 — Donnelly College faculty member, Steve Modrcin, will give a free lecture on the current status of the economy on Thursday, Nov. 6, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in Donnelly’s first floor meeting room.

Modrcin's presentation, titled "A Walk Down Wall Street," will cover topics such as the current status of the United States economy, the history of our economy, and investing. He is also prepared to discussed bear markets, recessions, and the bailout. Most importantly, Modrcin wants people to leave the lecture with an increased knowledge about what is going on in our economy so they can make the right investment decisions.

“I hope to arm listeners with the tools they need to make the best decisions about their money,” said Modrcin. “The more someone knows about the economy, the easier it is for them to make the right economic choices.”

Modrcin has taught economics and business courses for almost a decade in both the undergraduate and graduate levels. He has also been active in the stock market and trading for more than twelve years.  Modrcin holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting, as well as a master’s degree in organizational management.

To view additional details about this event, click here. Should you have any additional questions, please contact Jennifer Price, Donnelly College’s Marketing Coordinator, at jprice@donnelly.edu. No reservations are needed to attend this free presentation.

 

MAYOR OF URUAPAN, MICHOACAN IN MEXICO VISITS DONNELLY COLLEGE

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Oct. 28, 2008 — Donnelly College, in Kansas City, Kansas, welcomed Mr. Antonio González Rodríguez, Mayor of Uruapan, Michoacan in Mexico, on Friday to discuss a nursing program partnership that is currently in the works between the two sister cities.

The mayor came to Kansas City to attend various sister city events which included a visit to Donnelly College to meet with area nursing school representatives to discuss this partnership.

“It was an exciting day for Donnelly,” said Donnelly College’s Vice President and Dean of Instruction, Kevin Kelley, Ph. D. “Mayor Antonio Rodríguez,along with Mexico’s Department of International Relations and the local sister city committee is the driving force of this upcoming partnership.”

The partnership would allow nursing students from Uruapan to come to Kansas City and immerse themselves in the culture of the United States healthcare industry. Likewise, Kansas City nursing students would be sent to Uruapan to gain practical experience by observing nursing students in the Hispanic culture.

“This exchange program would directly expose Kansas City nursing students to the Hispanic culture, giving them an opportunity to perfect their Spanish skills,” said Cyrus Shadfar, Associate Dean of International Studies at Donnelly College. “Having healthcare professionals with this kind of cultural experience would greatly benefit our community because of the growing Spanish-speaking population that resides in KCK. “

 “Today, students have a significant advantage in the world of medicine if they are able to speak both English and Spanish,” said Anita Krondak, Director of Nursing at KCKCC. “The partnership would build these skills, but at the same time it would arm students with the ability to understand their field within the setting of another culture, setting them apart from other nursing students."

The Kansas City, Kansas/Uruapan, Michoacan Sister City Committee is lead by Delia Marin Hernandez. In 1978, Delia’s father, Roberto Marin, and Mayor Jack Reardon traveled to Uruapan to sign the first sister city agreement between Kansas City, Kansas, and Uruapan. “It is an honor to work with Mayor Joe Reardon to carry on the tradition of sister cities that was started by our fathers,” said Delia Hernandez, Chair of the sister city committee. “We have various initiatives of common interest we hope to begin implementing with the help of our sub-committee members here locally and in Uruapan.”

The Sister City Committee’s sub-committee in education is comprised of representatives from Mexico’s Department of International Relations, Donnelly’s Department of International Studies, KCKCC’s Department of Nursing, and the University of Kansas School of Medicine. Together, they plan to first create a pilot program that would exchange two students from Uruapan’s nursing school, Cetis, and two students from Donnelly’s Licensed Practical Nursing Program.

“We want our students to return to Mexico as more well-rounded nursing professionals,” said Oscar Valdez Pimentel, Director of International Communications for Mexico’s Department of International Relations. “Upon their return, they can share their experiences with other students and give us a sense of which parts of the program are working.”

Plans for the launch of this program are now underway, with hopes to begin the first exchange in June 2009. To continue to move forward, the colleges will be looking at Uruapan’s nursing curriculum requirements to determine the level at which students would be entering the exchange program.

To learn more about this exclusive partnership, please call (913) 621-8720 or send an e-mail to cshadfar@donnelly.edu. For more information about the KCK/Uruapan sister city committee, please call (913) 677-3103 or send an e-mail to dhernandez4@kc.rr.com.

 

MEN’S SOCCER TEAM TAKES HOME FIRST PLACE HONORS

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Oct. 9, 2008 —Donnelly College's men's soccer team finished off their second season on top, taking home first place honors within the All-American Indoor Sports Division 3 league. This year marks the second season for Donnelly’s soccer club teams, but it already seems they are making a name for themselves.

“The team played exceptionally well,” said head coach Jaime Fuentes. “I was so proud of each and every one of them.”

The game began slowly with neither team appearing to have the edge. “I think we were all nervous in the beginning,” said team captain Fernando Ramirez.” It took us a while to get warmed up.”

Donnelly ended up scoring the only goal of the first half. The opposing team answered with a goal early in the second half, but Donnelly quickly responded by scoring five consecutive goals. The final score was 6-1.

“This is only our second season together, and already we are truly playing like a team,” said Ramirez. “It was great to capture the first place win and it really sets the bar high for us next season.”

“Both the men’s and women’s teams did a fantastic job this year,” said Fuentes. “I’m looking forward to the next season.”

If you have any questions about the game, please contact head coach Jaime Fuentes at (913) 621-8789.

 

DONNELLY COLLEGE OFFERS SIX-WEEK SCRIPTURE SERIES TO KICK OFF CAMPUS MINISTRY PROGRAM

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Oct. 1, 2008— Donnelly College is kicking off their new campus ministry program with a six-week scripture series on the life of St. Paul the Apostle. The series will be offered on the college’s campus beginning Wednesday, Oct. 8, from 1 – 2 p.m. and will focus on Paul’s three missionary journeys and the Letter to the Romans.

The presenter will be Fr. Freddie Thomas, a biblical scholar who teaches Scripture at Holy Trinity Major Seminary in Punjab, India. He holds a master’s degree in Scripture from Urbanian University in Rome, and is currently in the United States preaching for the missions of his diocese.

“Fr. Thomas is truly a profound scholar and we are fortunate to have him come and speak,” said Joseph Multhauf, professor and Campus Ministry Coordinator at Donnelly College. “This series is the perfect way for us to kick off our Campus Ministry program and create a buzz about the growing amount of student-life activities available to the students at Donnelly.”

The lecture series is free and open to all who want to learn more about this charismatic apostle and author of 14 letters in the New Testament. Presentations will be held on the next six Wednesdays, Oct. 8 – Nov. 12, from 1 – 2 p.m., in the college’s first floor meeting room. No previous Scripture background is necessary and listeners do not need to attend all six sessions.

For more information, please call (913) 621-8790.

 

DONNELLY COLLEGE HOSTS ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP DINNER, RAISING MORE
THAN $100,000

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Sept. 16, 2008― Donnelly College hosted its Second Annual Scholarship Dinner to honor the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica on Saturday, Sept. 6. The dinner proved to be a huge success, raising more than $100,000 towards the creation of a Benedictine Sisters Endowed Scholarship Fund.

More than 300 guests attended the event, featuring keynote speakers Lawrence (Larry) Ward, Class of 1956, and Anita Dixon, Class of 1984. Welcoming remarks were made by Sister Constance (Connie) Krstolic, OSB, Class of 1964. Krstolic described the unwavering mission of Donnelly and recognized the stead-fast involvement of the Benedictine sisters.

“Donnelly continues to provide the opportunity for higher education to those who otherwise would not have it,” said Sister Connie. “Where would many of us be if it were not for the dedication of the sisters at Donnelly?”

The Robert Frost poem, “A Road Less Traveled,” provided a perfect theme for the dinner because it illustrates the bold vision of the college and its partnership with the Benedictine sisters.

“The sisters have, without question, taken that path less traveled,” said Larry Ward, Chairman Emeritus, Shughart Thomson & Kilroy, P.C. “Almost sixty years later, the mission of Donnelly College remains strong. The need is still here for a Catholic college to serve those who would not otherwise have the opportunity for an education.”

Since Donnelly’s founding in 1949, the Benedictine sisters have contributed more than $4 million in services to Donnelly. To honor the contributions of these wonderful women, the college unveiled a permanent tribute to the sisters that is prominently displayed in the front hallway of the main building. Alumni and friends are encouraged to stop by and see this impressive tribute.

Prior to the scholarship dinner, guests attended an open house event held in Donnelly’s main building. Here they had the chance to mingle with the college’s new president, Dr. Steve M. LaNasa, other alumni, students, faculty members and friends of the college.

“In looking at Donnelly’s rich history, it is clear that the Benedictine sisters and all others involved have repeatedly taken the road less traveled,” said Dr. LaNasa. “Our approach has 'made all the difference' to thousands of students and members of the Kansas City community. And today, Donnelly ranks among a very small number of private institutions nationally so committed to the form of educational access we provide.   I am extremely proud to be a part of an institution with so much potential for growth—growth made possible by our continued commitment to the mission laid out by the Benedictines 60 years ago.”

Today, Donnelly strives to honor its incredible legacy by serving students in new ways. It now offers bachelor’s degrees, a residence hall and new academic programs, while continuing to keep college affordable and accessible for all, especially those who might not otherwise be served.

To view photos from the Second Annual Scholarship Dinner and the Open House event, click here.

 

DONNELLY COLLEGE ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF NEW PRESIDENT

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Aug. 19, 2008 ― The Board of Trustees of Donnelly College has announced the appointment of Steven M. LaNasa, Ph.D., as the school's sixth president. LaNasa will begin his position on Sept. 2, and is currently serving as the Associate Dean and Assistant Professor of Higher Education in the School of Education at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

LaNasa's attraction to Donnelly is rooted in his long-standing interest and commitment to college access and opportunity, especially for those students from limited means.

"Educational attainment and equality are the most pressing issues facing both our region and country now and in the coming decades," said LaNasa. "I have been tremendously impressed by the support and commitment of the faculty and staff, the Archdiocese and Sisters, as well as the community at large who all ensure Donnelly fulfills its mission to provide students access to the education they deserve.

"Donnelly's faculty and staff are on the forefront of working with first-generation and non-traditional college students," said LaNasa. "The school's mission and orientation are not only unique to our region, but rank the college among a very small set of institutions nationally that serve students in this way."

In the last decade, LaNasa has collaborated and published on college access and opportunity for disadvantaged students, and the institutional infrastructure and experiences needed to support student success. Prior to serving in UMKC's School of Education, LaNasa was Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Planning at UMKC and prior to that served in various administrative roles at George Mason University. LaNasa earned his Doctor of Philosophy from The Pennsylvania State University, while serving in the Center for the Study of Higher Education.

Since relocating to Kansas City in 2003, LaNasa has been active in several educationally related initiatives in the community, including service on the Institute for Urban Education's Partnership Consortium, on the UMKC Charter Schools Advisory Board, and is a member of the partnership opening the Southwest Early College Campus in the Kansas City Missouri School District. LaNasa also serves on the research advisory board for the National Research Center for College University Admissions.

His interests in the study of higher education and college access made him stand out among the other candidates, according to George Breidenthal,'69, President of the Donnelly College Board of Trustees. "His expert understanding of the educational issues we are trying to address at Donnelly will enable him to serve as an exceptional leader," said Breidenthal.

LaNasa intends to build upon the great work of President Ken Gibson, Ph.D., who consistently moved Donnelly forward in many ways during his nine-year term, most significantly by leading the college to offer its first bachelor's degrees and a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program.

"Dr. LaNasa will make an excellent president for Donnelly College," said Gibson. "He has a big heart and I think his presence at Donnelly will both inspire and motivate. I expect great things for Donnelly under his tenure."

Kevin Kelley, Ph.D., Donnelly's Interim President and Dean of Instruction, believes LaNasa possesses an excellent blend of administrative and academic preparation. "His research and applied experience will strengthen Donnelly as we continue to develop new academic programs and expand our campus."

The Board of Trustees is excited to continue the momentum generated by recent additions of a residence hall and Donnelly's second academic building on campus.

"This is an exciting moment in the history of Donnelly College. Dr. LaNasa's experience and expertise, combined with the recent enhancements to the programs offered by the college, situate Donnelly for a very bright future," said Archbishop Joseph Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, who serves as an ex-officio member on Donnelly's Board of Trustees, as well as on the college's corporate board.

LaNasa will be attending Donnelly's upcoming Open House and Scholarship Dinner on Saturday, September 6. Members of the community, alumni, and friends of Donnelly are invited to stop by the Open House at Donnelly College and meet LaNasa from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. For more information on purchasing tickets to the scholarship dinner honoring the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and introducing LaNasa, click here >>

LaNasa resides in Liberty, Mo., with his wife and two sons.

 

SECOND SCHOLARSHIP DINNER TO HONOR BENEDICTINE SISTERS

KANSAS CITY, Kan., Aug. 4, 2008 ― Donnelly College's Second Annual Scholarship dinner will honor the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica. The dinner will be held on Sept. 6 at Reardon Civic Center in Kansas City, Ks. Dr. John Murry, President Emeritus of Donnelly (President 1988-98) is serving as event chair.

Proceeds from the dinner will be used to create an endowed scholarship in the name of the Benedictine sisters and to support the annual scholarship fund.

The theme of the dinner will be "The Road Less Traveled" based on the poem by Robert Frost. It honors the tradition of the road less traveled at Donnelly College - whether by the Benedictine sisters, the school's alumni of first-generation college graduates, or the college's alternative model for higher education.

"In 1949, Sister Jerome Keeler took the 'road less traveled' and founded Donnelly as a private college to serve young people of financially disadvantaged families in the urban area," said Dr. Murry. "And 'that has made all the difference' for nearly 60 years to many thousands of students who otherwise would not have had an opportunity for a college education."

Sr. Jerome was a visionary leader committed to the educational mission of the Benedictine sisters. More than 80 sisters have followed in her footsteps, contributing their time, talent, and services with minimal compensation.

"Sister Jerome was a brilliant woman who was way ahead of her time," said Pat Antonopoulos, Class of '58. "She was dignified and reserved, yet very down-to-earth. We had many incredible teachers, Sr. Kathleen (Brazzel), Sr. Sylvester (Elizabeth Coffey), Sr. Leander Cogan, Sr. Mary Faith (Schuster), and others."

Pat Callaghan, Donnelly academic advisor who retired last year, also praised the sisters. "When I came to Donnelly, I felt inadequate and uncertain about my life's direction," she said "The Benedictine sisters welcomed me, accepted me unconditionally, and affirmed my self-worth. They left a lifetime impression on me."

Don Wolf, Class of '56, a professional photographer, attributes his success to Donnelly. "Although I graduated from Donnelly over fifty years ago, I still feel the impact of that wonderful institution," he said. "Sister Faith didn't teach me photography, but she taught me something even more important. By having us write observations about what we saw, heard, and experienced throughout the day, she taught us to see shadows, textures, and shapes. She didn't know (neither did I) that she was preparing me for my lifetime vocation. And Sister Liguori (Sullivan), who remained a lifelong friend, taught me that I had worth, that I was somebody."

"Many of us were awakened to the possibilities of the future at Donnelly," said Steve Nicely, Class of '59. "In my case, more than any other influence, I have the Benedictine sisters and lay faculty at Donnelly to thank for a career in journalism. I also have Donnelly to thank for the career in education of my son, Bill. Both of us floundered after high school until we found our footing at Donnelly. And I know an awful lot of stories just like ours."

A homecoming and open house from 3:30- 5:30 p.m. at the college will precede the dinner which begins at 7 p.m. "We want alumni to come and get reacquainted with the Benedictine Sisters who will be here and get to know the Donnelly of the last 25 years," said Martha La Van, Class of '59. "We hope to make this an annual event before each scholarship dinner."

"I hope to see many alums at the Scholarship Dinner," said Nicely. "It's not the same building I attended, but it's the same Donnelly, the same mission, the same sanctified space where modern miracles occur."

Last year the dinner raised more than $80,000 for an endowed scholarship honoring Dr. Ken Gibson, past Donnelly president, and his wife, Dr. Jackie Snyder.

Call Marva Dace at 913.621.8746 for more information or to purchase tickets. Interested parties, please RSVP by August 20.

FIRST FIVE GRADUATES EARN BA DEGREES AT DONNELLY

KANSAS CITY, Kan., June 12, 2008 ― Five graduates in the May 2008 class carry the distinction of being the first to receive the BA degree in Organizational Leadership at Donnelly College. They are Masoud Alipour (cum laude), Marva Dace, Gina Loya, Michael Dressler, and Walter Staley (cum laude).

Massoud Alipour is a native of Iran. He taught music and had a jewelry business in Iran before coming to the U.S. to study music education and be closer to his wife's family in Kansas City. He learned English in Donnelly's ESL program and went on to earn his associate degree at Donnelly in 2004. After taking courses in music theory, music composition and piano at area colleges, he returned to Donnelly in 2006 to begin the baccalaureate program. He plans to start a music academy in Kansas City and also wants to pursue a master's degree in music or business. Massoud, his wife and daughter live in Overland Park.

Marva Dace began taking college courses at Wichita State University in 1968. She discontinued when she got married and then took a few courses at Los Angeles' Harbor College in 1981-82. When her mother became ill she returned to Kansas. With strong encouragement from her mother, she began taking evening courses at Donnelly in 2001 and earned her associate's degree in 2004. Since she works as an office assistant to the president and dean at Donnelly, it was convenient for her to continue studying for her baccalaureate here. She plans to pursue her master's degree in psychology at Park University in the fall.

"At first I was a little intimidated going back to college at age 50, but I got over it," Marva said.

Michael Dressler began working on his college degree in 2000 at Neosho County Community College with a golf scholarship. He later took some courses at the University of Kansas, but when he heard that Donnelly was beginning a baccalaureate program, he enrolled in January 2006.  He grew up a few blocks from Donnelly and liked the smaller class sizes and personal attention from the teachers.

"Donnelly gave me an edge up in how to communicate and work with people," Michael said. "The teachers really know their field."

Michael is currently in Oklahoma City studying to be an air traffic control specialist. He became interested in the field through his father and learning of the job security and benefits. He will undergo extensive training and testing before returning to Kansas City. He hopes to eventually pursue a master's degree and teach at Donnelly.

Gina Loya received her associate's degree from Donnelly in 2004 and then began the 2+2 program at KCK Community College with Emporia State University to become a teacher. She changed her mind about her career and decided to return to Donnelly for the BA in Organizational Leadership in 2006. During school, she worked as an administrative assistant at Kansas Kids at Gear Up, a college awareness program for K-12. She also does cake decorating for friends. "I'd like to open a small cake decorating business some day," Gina said.

Gina likes the one-on-one help and the diversity at Donnelly. Her parents, David and Vicki Loya, are both graduates of Donnelly.

Walter Staley, a software engineer and designer for 25 years, served in the Navy, worked in IT for 13 years and then as a private contractor for 12 years with such institutions as Peabody Coal, Glaxo Pharmaceutical, and Washington University. He took college courses off and on but had no degree until 1986 when he earned his associate's at KCKCC. Then in 2004 he applied to the State Department for a GS13 position and was told he needed a master's degree to qualify for the job. When he heard about the new BA program at Donnelly, he enrolled in January 2006.

"I enjoyed Donnelly, especially the conversations about ethics and religion in the workplace," Walter said. "The classes in management and leadership were excellent."

Walter is currently enrolled in the master's program at DeVry University.

$2.865 MILLION FEDERAL GRANT ENABLES TWO NEW EDUCATION PROGRAMS

KANSAS CITY, Kan. ― Donnelly College received a 5-year grant from the United States Department of Education, under the Title V Strengthening Institutions Grant, to improve educational services to Hispanic and low-income students.  We hold the distinction of being one of the few federally designated Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) in the mid-west and the only HSI in the Kansas City metro area.  Institutions are eligible for a Title V grant if their student enrollment is at least 25 percent Hispanic.

"Donnelly College's reception of a $2.865 million federal grant is just another indication of the remarkable accomplishments of the College in offering an opportunity for higher education to those who otherwise might not have the chance.  I am very grateful for the many ways in which Donnelly College helps the Catholic Church realize our goal to make the love of Jesus Christ tangible to its students," said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

The new funding will help us cover capital and start-up expenses for launching two new educational programs at Donnelly - a Licensed Practical Nursing program and Donnelly's second baccalaureate degree, a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education.  In the grant competition, we clearly demonstrated both the need for these two specific programs, and the benefits they would bring to our graduates and to the community.  Opportunities in nursing and education are on the rise, as evidenced by a 25 percent growth in health and education related careers projected to occur by the year 2014.

Over the next five years, the Title V grant will provide $777,000 in construction funds for instructional rooms and laboratories, $350,000 in supplies and equipment, and $1,150,000 in personnel funding to develop and pilot the two programs.  The grant will also provide up to $500,000 to match endowment funds raised through the generosity of our many friends and supporters.

"A grant of this magnitude significantly accelerates our activities in supporting the educational needs of our community," said Donnelly College's Interim President Kevin Kelley.  "Without the Title V grant, the addition of the new nursing and teaching programs would have taken seven to ten years. The opportunity to train for these new professions, and not just jobs, will be accessible to the Donnelly community much more quickly.  The nursing and education fields lead the list of most requested programs at Donnelly."

The grant will also increase access to both of the new programs by providing funding for online course development, including both the technology for and piloting of such classes.   

The new LPN and education program classrooms, laboratories, and resources will be housed in Marian Hall, which recently became part of the Donnelly campus through the generosity of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.  One-third of Marian Hall's approximately 30,000 square feet, will house three lecture halls, seven classrooms, one nursing laboratory, one elementary education instructional laboratory, and an anatomy and physiology laboratory. The remaining space in Marian Hall will accommodate additional student housing, a fitness center, and other student support activities.

"The initial stages of the LPN program approval process are up and running," said Title V Project Director Frances Sanders.  "The application filed with the Kansas Board of Nursing will be up for consideration at its December 18, 2007 meeting.  I am hopeful that the application will be approved as we would like to begin admitting students into the LPN program in the summer of 2008."

The elementary education program requires the approval of the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association and the State Board of Education.  We will begin that approval process for the elementary education program in 2008.