MCC Hosts Pathmaker Program Graduation Ceremony11/19/202411/19/2024 5:30 PM
On Thursday, November 7, Middlesex Community College’s Pathmaker Program graduation ceremony celebrated student success. The program helps build job training opportunities to assist in filing gaps in the Massachusetts life sciences workforce. At the graduation, students received their certificates and reflected on the experience.

“The design of the curriculum has prepared me to transition from my previous profession in human services and the medical field,” said Jerry Roun, an MCC Pathmaker Program graduate from Lowell who spoke during the ceremony. “Getting the opportunity to tour a production facility and see how Omnipods were made from scratch intrigued me. It was a pleasure to have learned with my classmates and be in such a great learning environment.”

Through funding by the Mass Life Sciences Center Pathmaker Initiative – and in collaboration with Insulet and MassHire Lowell Career Center – MCC offered Advanced Manufacturing with Robotics and Automation training. The opportunity prepares Massachusetts job seekers for careers in the life sciences industry.

“Middlesex is thrilled to partner with Mass Life Sciences, Insulet and MassHire Lowell on the Pathmaker Program to offer students a strong pathway into the life sciences workforce,” said Phil Sisson, MCC’s President. “Through this funding, a wider, more diverse population of students have access to the knowledge and skills they need to be prepared for stable, well-paying STEM jobs within the Commonwealth. While these students earn their education, our community partners gain well-prepared and high-quality employees for in-demand roles.”

To assist students with their career goals, the Pathmaker program provides them with professional development tools and opportunities. In addition to training, students can also take advantage of career counseling services, resume review, interview preparation and the college’s award-winning support services, such as tutoring.

MCC had eight students complete the program, including Roun, Andrew Bellingham, Allan Chow, Cynthia Estrada, Steven Ford, Ron Paula, Andrew Robinson, and Samoeut Sun. After graduating, they are now prepared to sit for the Tooling U certification exam.

This is MCC’s first opportunity to lead a training cohort through the Mass Life Sciences Pathmaker Initiative. Previously, MCC partnered with Mount Wachusett to run a similar program three times with Commonwealth Corporation’s RENEW funding.

In MCC’s eight-week Pathmaker Program, students received 120 hours of in-person learning and 30 hours of remote learning with ToolingU. The learning sessions discussed industry-related topics, such as lean manufacturing, industrial electricity, robotics and mechatronics.

"This latest cohort of students represented the widest range of incoming skills,” said John Henshaw, a Pathmaker program instructor. “Despite their varied backgrounds, they came together well and supported each other through the training. The end result was a strong group of students who will make great candidates for employment in medical device and other advanced manufacturing companies."

After completing the program, graduates received their Certified Manufacturing Associate Credentials through ToolingU and OSHA-10 certification. In addition, they may be eligible to interview for positions at Insulet, visit a local advanced manufacturing facility, and network with hiring managers and past students.

The Spring 2025 session will run from January 21 to March 13 on MCC’s Bedford campus. Each session takes place from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.

“The success of this program is a direct result of the strong partners involved,” said Katy Gentile, MCC’s Assistant Director of Corporate Education and Training. “Each partner plays a significant role: Insulet Corporation provides a tour of their facility, overview of open positions, onsite interviews and input into the course curriculum; MassHire Lowell Career Center provides recruitment, assessment, career readiness and counseling services; and finally, our MCC faculty and staff members manage the program and provide expert instruction in manufacturing, robotics and automation.”

Visit middlesex.mass.edu/workforcetraining/pathmaker.aspx for more information or email Gentile at gentilek@middlesex.edu to apply.
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Annual Engineering Panel Welcomes Back MCC Alumni11/18/202411/19/2024 1:32 PM
​A leader of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education, Middlesex Community College hosted an Engineering Panel Night on Monday, November 4. Held on the college’s Bedford Campus, the event featured a panel of professional engineers, including MCC alumni.

“The event promotes student success and motivates students to continue their education, even when it feels difficult to do so,” said Cris Algarra, MCC’s Chair of Engineering. “Our students work and study, they’re parents, they have different struggles. When they hear people on a panel sharing that they also had these challenges but were able to overcome them and become an engineer, they will see themselves reflected in those people.”

Organized by Algarra, MCC’s Engineering department welcomed five professionals in the field to share their personal stories. Panelists discussed how they decided on working in engineering, where they went to school, their career paths, and the challenges they faced. The panelists included Gage Overby, Klismann de Azevedo, Elijah LaVancher, Justin Murphy and Shiv Thakur.

Overby, of Somerville, studied CAD at Middlesex before transferring to UMass Lowell as a plastics engineer. He earned his bachelor’s in engineering and now works at Jabir Healthcare as a manufacturing engineer. In this role, Overby prepares new plastic injection molds for production.

“MCC granted me time to prioritize both work and academics, opening the door for me to pursue internships and potential careers while in school and without undue stress,” Overby said. “I want to return to reconnect with the friends I made while attending MCC. Hopefully I can answer a question while there that influence someone else’s life positively.”

Interested in pursuing all that the mechanical engineering field has to offer, de Azevedo, of Peabody, chose to pursue the major in college. At MCC, he attended an engineering panel that motivated him to continue his path.

“The engineers speaking at the time made me realize that I can be successful too,” de Azevedo said. “That is why I accepted to come in to speak to the students. I wanted to share my story and hopefully inspire young engineers the same way I was inspired when I was in the audience.”

An MCC alum, Murphy graduated with associate degrees in computer aided design (CAD) and mechanical engineering before transferring to UMass Lowell to earn a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering. Currently a plumbing engineer at Avid Engineers, Murphy designs plumbing systems for commercial projects.

“My experience at the panel night was great, I was able to discuss my experiences in school and some of the obstacles that I faced,” Murphy said. “Additionally, I discussed how students should be open to new opportunities that might not be what they originally had planned. Engineering is so broad and diverse and is in every facet of daily life in one way or another. I would encourage students that are interested in engineering to find something that they are passionate about and research what role engineering plays in that field.”

A second-year biomedical engineering Ph.D student at Tufts University, MCC alum LaVancher works in the Kaplan Lab developing biomaterial-based 3D human stem cell models. After graduating from Middlesex, he transferred to UMass Lowell to study biomedical engineering.

Thakur, of Arlington, is founder and CEO of Summit Global Consulting Inc. After starting at a community college, he continued on at Northeastern University to earn a bachelor’s in chemical engineering with a minor in entrepreneurship, as well as a master’s in engineering management.

“Like many students [at MCC], my path started with challenges and a need for support,” Thakur said. “Having come to the U.S. as a teenager, I faced many obstacles – learning English, working long hours, and navigating an unfamiliar environment. Community college played an essential role in helping me gain confidence, pursue my goals, and eventually reach higher education. I know firsthand how transformative this support can be.”
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Students Awarded at MCC’s Fall 2024 Scholarship Ceremony11/14/202411/19/2024 12:35 PM
​During the Fall 2024 Scholarship Ceremony, Middlesex Community College students received financial awards to help them afford the costs of attending college. A total of $197,030 was awarded to 92 students at the event held on MCC’s Bedford Campus on Thursday, November 7.

“I am ecstatic to be awarded the scholarship,” said Orobosa Igbinovia, an MCC student from Lowell. “As a computer science major, my course load demands intense focus and preparation, and this scholarship provides the financial peace of mind I need to dedicate myself fully to my classes. I'm extremely grateful to Middlesex for the support it has provided through this scholarship. It will go a long way in ensuring my success.”

Igbinovia was the recipient of the Presidential Equity Promise Scholarship. Established in honor of Phil Sisson becoming the college’s fifth president, the scholarship assists BIPOC students to achieve their dream of a college education and closes financial aid gaps in expenses related to completing their MCC program. Igbinovia also received the Dr. David M. Kalivas Honors Scholarship created in honor of Dr. Kalivas’s 40 years of service to MCC and in support of students from MCC’s Commonwealth Honors Program.

Jane Liu, of Lexington, received the Robert Cataldo Scholarship in honor of Cataldo and his commitment to the community and MCC. Liu also received the Shirley W. Thidemann Memorial Scholarship in honor of Thidemann, an MCC alumna and her contribution to the social services field. A liberal arts and sciences major at Middlesex, Liu will transfer to UMass Amherst as a psychology major in the spring.

“I am a first generation U.S. citizen and am the first in my family to attend college,” Liu said. “I'm also disabled and have been unable to work recently due to my condition worsening. The money from these scholarships took a huge burden off my shoulders and has allowed me to concentrate on my studies without worries.”

MCC Elementary Education student Emma Skelton, of Billerica, was awarded the Dr. Ellen B. Decker Memorial Scholarship to recognize Dr. Decker and her devotion to the pursuit of learning and educational excellence in public city education. Skelton was also the recipient of the Keri-Lyn (Gleason) Farley Scholarship in honor of (Gleason) Farley with the intention to support a female elementary education major planning to transfer to a four-year school to become a teacher.

“I feel extremely proud,” Skelton said. “I have very high standards for my grades, and it is an honor to be seen as a hard worker. I have been balancing full-time employment and excessive hours studying in addition to classroom time and commuting. These scholarships allow me to invest more time in my studies without trying to balance overtime work hours. I have gained confidence, life experience as a commuter, and knowledge while attending MCC.”

Led by the Middlesex Community College Foundation, scholarships are funded by generous donors, including memorial donations, local businesses, private foundations and private donors. The 113 scholarships ranged from $500 to $800 and were handed out to students from 37 cities and towns in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

“The scholarship ceremony is one of my favorite events of the year,” said Barbara Maglio, MCC’s Director of Alumni Relations & Annual Giving. “It’s a special time to recognize the achievements of our students, generous donors, and community partners – individuals who selflessly sponsor scholarships that help our students achieve their educational dreams and enter the workforce with a clear path to successful careers and long-lasting success.”

The 2024-2025 scholarship recipients include:
  • Aldersgate UMC, Chelmsford, Scholarship – Adesuwa Onyekwena
  • Alumni Association Scholarship – Livia Ferreira
  • Aradhya-Beauchemin Arts Scholarship – Aaron Colbert & Nicole Fisk
  • Audrey A. Cogliano Memorial Scholarship – Pichpisey Eng
  • Barbara B. Saloom Scholarship for Incoming Students – Kayla Breen
  • Bruce J. Corcoran Memorial Scholarship – Richard Silvio
  • Carole A. Cowan CHP Award – Maria Clara Castro
  • Caryl Dundorf Scholarship – Jeffery Montes
  • Catherine Goodwin Memorial Scholarship – Paul Melkonian
  • Charles and Olga Malvers Memorial Scholarship – Diane Hernandez
  • Collegiate TRIO Programs Scholarship - Program for Student Achievement (PSA) – Chris Kankam
  • Collegiate TRIO Programs Scholarship - Student Success Program – Darie Martinez
  • Debra Chemelli Evans Scholarship – Lisa Tohline
  • Delta Dental of Massachusetts Scholarship in honor of Dennis J. Leonard – Kethelly Guilherme Dias & Thanh Nhu
  • Deolinda Mello Memorial Scholarship – Tracie Du
  • Dr. David M. Kalivas Honors Scholarship – Orobosa Igbinovia
  • Dr. Ellen B. Decker Memorial Scholarship – Emma Skelton
  • Dr. Michael R. Tramonte Scholarship – Jaeson Scott
  • Emily Boudrot Memorial Scholarship – Sharon Nagadya
  • Geraldine B. Deragon Scholarship – Jennifer Guerra
  • Hope & Healing Scholarship – Samantha Burke & Faith Dominguez
  • Howard Legacy of Hope Scholarship – Dejonge Mutingamo, Abel Nere & Adesuwa Onyekwena
  • James and Dorothy Sullivan Scholarship – Lisa Tohline
  • James C. & Judith G. Mabry Completion Scholarship – Sarah Alzate Perez
  • John Keough Award - Anna Maria Hamel & Deanna Moore
  • Juniper Scholars Scholarship Pilot Program – Nnadubem Ganobi & Owen Mawanda
  • Karen N. Frederick Scholarship – Sharon Cardona
  • Kathy Reticker Scholarship – Malissa Colon & Casey MacKenzie
  • Keri-Lyn (Gleason) Farley Scholarship – Emma Skelton
  • Kim M. Forte Memorial Scholarship – Jessica D’Amico
  • Kumler Family CHP Award – Lila Ablimit
  • Leah N. Knowlton Memorial Scholarship – Chanranchannie Nong
  • Lexington-Concord Chapter of the Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association (AFCEA) Scholarship – Mina Antounious, Vimean Botum Chea, Kris Claudio-Hernandez, Angel De La Portilla Cardenas, Lyanna Johnson, Notfaza Karim, Romanpreet Kaur, Nosa Osaretin
  • Lexington-Concord Chapter of the Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association (AFCEA) Scholarship in Honor of Claire Goulet – Tithida Veng
  • Lexington-Concord Chapter of the Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association (AFCEA) Scholarship – Veteran – Ernest Pough
  • Linda R. Gallagher Nursing Scholarship – Stephanie Kem
  • Living the Dream Partners Scholarship – Ernest Pough
  • Lowell Five Scholarship – Christian Tims
  • Luis M. Pedroso Immigrant Scholarship – Emily Brown, Tracie Du, Nancy Hoang, Jaiden Ros
  • Lura Smith Scholarship – Ambriel Mayhew & Chinna Udoji
  • Marie Ryder Beacon of Hope Scholarship – Stephanie Kem
  • Markowicz-Dundorf Scholarship – Angel De La Portilla Cardenas
  • Maryanne M. Mungovan Memorial Scholarship – Maliza Sun
  • Mashu and Abu Alam Scholarship – Paul Kumah
  • Maureen Silveria Strauss Dental Hygiene Scholarship – Thanh Nhu
  • Middlesex Community College Foundation Merit Award for Full-Time Students – Jaden Donahue, Lucia Martinkus, Jolie Wu
  • Middlesex Community College Foundation Merit Award for Full-Time Students in Honor of Amy Cahill Lee – Dania Farah
  • Middlesex Community College Foundation Merit Award for Part-Time Students – Ginna Crawford, Livia Ferreira, Zainab Hussaini, Deanna Moore, Youngsin Park
  • Muriel G. Hervey Memorial Scholarship – Harley Jones, Kai Martinez & Samantha Moran
  • New England Woodcarvers (NEWC) Scholarship – Aaron Colbert & Alexandra Ostrowski
  • Northeast Association of Realtors (NEAR) Scholarship – Fabiana “Valentina” Pena
  • Patricia R. Cahalane Memorial Scholarship – Theany Kry
  • Paul Sheehy Memorial Scholarship – Samantha Sanford
  • Paul Sullivan Scholarship – Chris Kankam
  • Presidential Equity Promise Scholarship – Vimean Botum Chea, Orobosa Igbinovia, Yiselys Lopez, Kyrone Lor & Darie Martinez
  • Prudence Drake Health Programs Scholarship – Jessica D’Amico, Jaden Donahue, Caitlin Fallier, Estefany Peguero Medrano & Elizabeth Stephens
  • Ralph and Loretta Steeves Memorial Scholarship – Caitlin Fallier
  • Robert Cataldo Scholarship – Brianna Bennett-Karshbaum & Jane Liu
  • Sarem Neou Cambodian Amercian Scholarship – David Suon
  • Shirley W. Thidemann Memorial Scholarship – Jane Liu
  • Support Staff Scholarship – Brandon Merullo
  • The TJX Companies Scholarship – Diane Hernandez
  • Thomas O'Mahony "Spirit of Excellence" Award – Eangpheng Ea
  • Tom McKay Memorial Scholarship – Emily Weinberg
  • Trooper Tamar Bucci Criminal Justice Scholarship – Alyssa Baker
  • Unitas Scholarship – Kris Claudio-Hernandez
  • Verena Stair Memorial Scholarship – Marley Williams
  • Warren-Wharton-Sullivan Scholarship – Makaylah Barnett
  • Werfen Scholarship – Monyuddam Chheang, Angie Lee, Karina Vangel & Saryna Vith
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MCC to Welcome Lowell Chamber Orchestra for Second Concert of Fall 2024 “A World of Music” 11/13/202411/19/2024 12:35 PM
For a second time during the Fall 2024 “A World of Music” concert series, Middlesex Community College will welcome the Lowell Chamber Orchestra (LCO). The concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23 at MCC’s Richard and Nancy Donahue Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell.

“One of the strengths of LCO’s programming is that their concerts feature a combination of standard orchestral works, lesser-known pieces, and contemporary compositions,” said Carmen Rodríguez-Peralta, MCC’s Chair of Music. “This upcoming program will feature an effective juxtaposition of Symphony No. 36 by Mozart; a less often performed symphony by Joseph Boulogne, a Black French composer who lived at the same time as Mozart; and a recent piece by Robin Haigh, the winner of the LCO Call-for-Scores.”

Conducted by MCC Music faculty member Orlando Cela, the LCO is MCC’s orchestra in residence. The program is entitled In the Classical Tradition, in which works featuring a small number of players will be performed.

This Fall, “A World of Music” will close out with a Student Recital. The performance will take place at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, December 2 at MCC’s Concert Hall in Bedford.

Previous performances include a concert by the LCO to kick off the Fall season on Sunday, September 8; Duos and Trios Featuring Cello, Piano and Flute on Sunday, October 6; Phantom of the Opera with Live Music at on Thursday, October 17; Afro-Brazilian Music with Marcus Santos on Tuesday, October 22.

All concerts are free and open to the public.

MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/worldofmusic/ for more information.
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MCC Hires Director of Veterans & Military Affairs11/12/202411/19/2024 12:35 PM
Middlesex Community College is excited to announce Josue Nunez as the new Director of Veterans and Military Affairs. A Middlesex alum and veteran, Nunez believes his return to MCC is inspired by his military service supporting fellow soldiers as they transitioned out of active duty, including those who were injured while serving.

“As a disabled veteran with a strong commitment to supporting my community, I am now channeling my career toward roles that advocate for veterans and military-affiliated individuals,” Nunez said. “This journey has led me back to MCC, where I am eager to use my experiences to support veterans in their educational paths and beyond. My objective is to be an advocate for all students' educational and career aspirations, ensuring each individual feels seen, heard and supported.”

At MCC, Nunez is focused on building a sense of belonging for veteran and military-affiliated students. While guiding students on their transition to college and future plans, he will provide targeted support and resources to meet their needs. His goal is also to increase the graduation success rate for this population of students.

Located in both Bedford and Lowell, the Veteran Resource Center (VRC) will continue to serve as a one-stop hub for veteran and military-affiliated students and their families. Nunez aims for the VRC to be a supportive space for students to access resources, mentorship and advising, as well as attend programs and events. Topics will include workshops on career readiness, financial literacy, academic planning, and community engagement.

“I have personally experienced the challenges many students face, and MCC was a vital support system throughout my journey,” Nunez said. “During my time as a student, I was fortunate to have strong mentors who guided and inspired me, setting an example of the kind of support I now strive to provide in my role. These mentors exemplified the dedication and encouragement that MCC offered its students and was instrumental in shaping my goals and aspirations.”

For Veterans Day, Middlesex hosted luncheons on November 7 on the Bedford Campus and November 12 on the Lowell Campus. The celebrations provided the opportunity to honor veterans and reintroduce the VRC to the community. In holding the events, Nunez is striving to provide current students with the experiences he had during his time at MCC.

Nunez chose to study at MCC because of the college’s flexible, diverse and supportive offerings. As a business administration major, he gained skills that have helped him throughout his career. He also credits Middlesex faculty for helping him overcome the imposter syndrome he feels many veterans experience while in school.

“MCC provided a sense of belonging and purpose, helping me navigate my studies, build confidence, and establish a renewed sense of direction for my career,” Nunez said. “Returning here as a professional feels like a calling to give back to an institution that empowered me, and it’s an honor to contribute to an environment that champions student success and personal growth.”

After graduating from MCC, Nunez transferred to UMass Lowell to earn a bachelor’s in business administration with a concentration in finance. With experience working in regulatory compliance, data analysis, and operational management across various industries, Nunez is pursuing an MBA with a focus on management and service. Now at Middlesex as an employee, he wants to provide equitable and accessible opportunities.

“I aim to help all students – especially veteran and military families – achieve their educational and personal goals,” he said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to service the MCC community in this capacity."
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Registration is Now Open for MCC’s Spring 2025 Semester11/8/202411/19/2024 12:35 PM
Middlesex Community College offers flexible and affordable options to guide students of all ages, backgrounds and goals on their paths to success. Registration is now open for MCC’s Spring 2025 semester, starting Tuesday, January 21, 2025, including a three-week WinterSession, which kicks off Thursday, January 2, 2025.

“We design our academic schedule to make getting an education as equitable and accessible for our students as possible,” said Kayla Caron, MCC’s Registrar and Interim Dean of Enrollment. “Whether you want to start or advance in a career, update job skills, or plan to transfer to a four-year school, MCC has options that help fit classes into your schedule to complete your education in a way that works best for you.”

Flexible schedules and class formats meet students where they are, including accelerated sessions that offer the same content, academic standards and number of instructional hours as courses scheduled in the traditional 15-week semester.

MCC’s WinterSession and two eight-week Mini-mesters provide the perfect opportunity for students to complete general education requirements and earn transferable college credits. During WinterSession, students can take classes while most other schools are on break.

Held twice in both the Fall and Spring semesters, Mini-mesters allow students to start taking classes on their own terms. The shorter sessions are also an excellent way for students to finish more classes in less amount of time, helping them transfer or enter the workforce faster.

While Mini-mester I starts on Tuesday, January 21 – the same day as the traditional 15-week semester – Mini-mester II will begin on Monday, March 24.

During the Spring 2025 semester and WinterSession, students can choose between on-campus, online, hybrid and hyflex courses for MCC’s over 80 associate degree and certificate programs. All students also have access to award-winning student support services and resources, including academic, transfer, career and financial advising.

No matter your age or income, community college is now free in Massachusetts! The MassEducate and MassReconnect programs allow at Massachusetts residents who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree to attend MCC for free.

“There are many individuals who never earned their degree because they didn’t have the time, money or resources available to go to school,” Caron said. “Combined with MCC’s programs and support services, MassEducate and MassReconnect are making it possible for people to have the opportunity to pursue higher education and improve and change their lives.”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434 for more information or to register for MCC’s Spring 2025 semester and WinterSession.
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MCC Hosting FAFSA Completion Events to Help Students Apply for Financial Aid11/5/202411/19/2024 12:35 PM
​Middlesex Community College is encouraging students to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). MCC’s Office of Financial Aid is partnering with uAspire and MEFA to host workshops to help students learn more about the new 2024-2025 FAFSA and earn financial assistance.

“Completing the FAFSA is one of the best ways students can set themselves up for success at college and beyond,” said Kimberly Tibbetts, MCC’s Director of Financial Aid. “While the process can seem overwhelming and scary, we have a team of financial aid experts who work with you one-on-one. Our goal is to customize each offer for you and your circumstances to help you leave MCC with as little debt as possible.”

The uAspire events will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 7; Wednesday, December 11; Tuesday, January 14; Tuesday, February 4; and Tuesday, March 11. During the events, uAspire will host a live webinar to provide students and families with information and support on how to fill out the FAFSA.

The MEFA Virtual FAFSA Festival will run from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, November 14; Tuesday, December 10; Monday, December 16; Wednesday, January 15; and Tuesday, February 11. Students can drop in at their convenience to be matched with an expert to go through the FAFSA process, answer questions, and help complete the application.

No matter your age or income, community college is now free in Massachusetts! The MassEducate and MassReconnect programs allow at Massachusetts residents who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree to attend MCC for free. To qualify, students must complete the FAFSA.

Financial aid awards are based on financial need, enrollment status in an eligible program, and availability of funding. Additional forms of financial aid, including student employment, federal work study programs or scholarship opportunities, may be available for those who qualify.

“The FAFSA is free and easy to fill out,” Tibbetts said. “It’s worth completing because students often qualify for more than they think!”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/financialaid/ for more information and to register for a session.
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MCC Hires New Counseling Intern for Wellness Resource Center10/31/202411/18/2024 11:19 AM
​In an effort to enhance mental health and wellness services offered to students, Middlesex Community College hired Michael Chan, of Somerville, as a counseling intern in the Wellness Resource Center (WRC). A graduate student at William James College (WJC), Chan will assist students with their physical and mental health, helping to guide them with their academic and personal goals.

“I want to make mental health more accessible and support the college’s students,” Chan said. “My responsibility as an intern is to help build a safe environment and validate students’ lived experiences. I hope that my efforts can bring more awareness to the support services available on both campuses.”

In his role with the WRC, he will primarily meet with students one-on-one for short term counseling. For students in need of greater support, Chan can help provide referrals to specialized treatments or longer-term programming through community partners.

Originally from Hong Kong, Chan moved to Washington and later earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education at Boston University in 2016. Soon after, he worked for the Public Schools of Brookline in 2018 as a Communications Specialist. As he wrote newsletters, emails and social media posts to students, families and staff, he became interested in connecting with others on a deeper level.

Due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Brookline community, Chan grew an interest in the mental health profession. As he witnessed how difficult it was for everyone to adjust and cope with the situation, he wanted to learn how he could help those who were impacted.

“The effects of COVID-19 made me reckon my own understanding of mental health,” Chan said. “At that time, people were going through a lot and needed support. I started to understand how affecting the experience can be, especially in the context of my own struggles. Having to respond to the mental health concerns of the broader community ultimately sparked my passion to assist and interact with people more directly.”

To explore his new interest and a different career path, Chan started pursuing his master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2022. As he completes his studies at WJC, Chan will intern at MCC through May.

After graduating from WJC, he wants to work with adults and continue counseling in a school environment. Students can connect with him virtually or in-person in the Enrollment Center on the Bedford Campus from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays, as well as 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays at the WRC on the Lowell Campus.

“I am excited to join the MCC community,” Chan said. “There are a lot of ambitious changes happening as I arrive, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute. Over the next few months, I hope I can immerse myself in the community college experience and the impact they leave for our students. I look forward to supporting folks on their respective mental health journeys and being a helpful presence!”
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MCC’s Dental Hygiene Clinic Provides Affordable & Accessible Services to Community10/29/202411/14/2024 9:12 AM
​Middlesex Community College is proud to offer dental services through the college’s state-of-the-art Dental Hygiene Clinic. Located in Lowell, the clinic allows students in the program to practice their skills under supervision of a dental hygienist while serving the community.

“Working in a dental clinic has been invaluable for my professional growth,” said Silvana Begaj, an MCC dental hygiene student from West Roxbury. “This experience has exposed me to a diverse patient population which has helped me to develop my communication and interpersonal skills. Being in a dental office has allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real world situations.”

The newly renovated clinic features high-end equipment, resources and experiences for students to learn industry practices. MCC dental hygiene students provide direct patient care under extensive education and training, and have demonstrated competence in clinical services before treating the public.

In order to fulfill their requirements and graduate, students help patients by using updated equipment and technology. Open weekly from September through May, services are available to all students, faculty, family, friends and community members.

“I’ve always loved the dental field, starting from when I was a child getting my elastics changed once a month with ortho,” said Alison Tobin, an MCC dental hygiene student from Saugus. “I looked forward to it because I liked the office and knew it was where I belonged. I’ve been an assistant for five years and will soon be a practicing registered dental hygienist!”

In the past few years, MCC has partnered with community organizations to provide preventative oral hygiene care. Partnering with Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Lowell Public Schools, the college hosted a clinic for fifth and sixth grade students in the Summer of 2022. Middlesex also partnered with the International Institute of New England to provide dental services to 32 children from Afghanistan in Spring of 2022.

MCC’s Dental Hygiene Clinic works with patients of many backgrounds and languages. With a diverse population of students, there are many individuals available who speak multiple languages. The clinic also provides interpretation using LanguageLine.

Offerings include medical history and blood pressure, oral cancer screening, dental and periodontal cleaning, oral health education, individualized treatment planning, scaling (cleaning), deep scaling, and fluoride therapy. Other services include dental sealants, custom athletic mouth protectors, individual x-rays, and full mouth x-rays.

“We offer a wide variety of valuable and affordable services to provide personalized care catered to our patients’ needs,” said Christine Lombardo, MCC’s Dental Hygiene Department Chair. “While teaching patients about their oral health and empowering them to take charge of their smiles, we’re also guiding our students to receive comprehensive hands-on learning and practice.”

The Dental Clinic is located at 44 Middle Street in MCC’s Talbot Building in Lowell. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/dhclinic/ for more information, including pricing and hours.
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Business Student Gets Fresh Start at MCC11/7/202411/13/2024 10:10 AM
​Though he faced some challenges in high school, Middlesex Community College is offering Christian Tims, of Groton, a fresh start. The business administration student and Student Government Association (SGA) president has found a community of learning and experiences at MCC that is guiding him toward reaching his goals.

“MCC has provided me with many opportunities and a solid foundation for my higher education,” Tims said. “I have been exposed to a wide array of diverse individuals with highly stratified backgrounds and ambitions which has opened my mind. MCC has also been an aid in determining what my goals are in the first place.”

Interested in making a difference, Tims is looking to jumpstart his future in politics and government. While at Middlesex, he chose a business program because he wants to pursue a career in economics. Both in his classes and in his campus activities, Tims is exploring civics, law and governance.

One experience that helped set Tims up for success was the Commonwealth Municipal Finance Fellowship he completed over the summer. Working full-time in the finance department of his town hall, he applied theories he learned in his classes to real-life situations. He believes he also gained a strong addition to his resume and college transfer application.

“My internship experience has sharpened my discipline, work ethic, and exposed me to a professional environment where a lot is at stake,” Tims said. “It has helped me to direct my interests and increase my ability to take in a lot of information on the fly.”

Tims credits Maria McDuffie Clark, MCC’s Director of Student Engagement for Equity, for assisting him with his work on SGA. The central governing liaison to all clubs and organizations at the college, SGA allows Tims to hear classmates’ feedback, concerns and needs, which he then communicates to MCC’s administration.

Using his business background, Tims collaborates with clubs to build their budgets and plans. He also helps organize campus-wide events to bring the community together. At the recent Fall Jam event, he took the time to meet with students and employees to discuss how to get involved on campus.

“SGA is an open forum, meaning any student can come to a meeting, inquire and contribute,” Tims said. “My role as president has challenged me as a leader and learner, and has grown my skills in project planning, teamwork and management. I’m able to give my best effort to make meaningful changes on campus.”

In addition to SGA, Tims is part of MCC’s Business and Economics Club. A Commonwealth Honors Program scholar, he is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the national honors society for two-year colleges.

His favorite class experiences at Middlesex include discussions about readings with classmates, as well as the chance to present projects in his honors world cultures class. Tims also enjoyed a field trip to collect dragonfly larvae to analyze mercury levels in an environmental science lab.

After graduating from MCC in the Spring of 2025, he plans to transfer to a four-year school and one day earn a master’s degree. Through hands-on learning and experiences, Middlesex is providing a clear path to his future.

“After a mediocre and unfortunate high school tenure, now was the time to make the most of school and not look back,” he said. “MCC has granted me fresh opportunities in the classroom, in addition to extracurriculars that have provided me with the necessary experience and credentials to ready me for the next steps.”
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MCC to Host Award-winning Poet & Writer as Part of Visiting Writers Series11/4/202411/13/2024 10:10 AM
​As part of the college’s Visiting Writers Series, Middlesex Community College will host award-winning poet and writer Krysten Hill at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19 in the Bedford Campus Café East.

“Your writing will change because you will change. Be open to change and new artistic practices and habits,” Hill said. “Also, seek communities that do not minimize you or look past you. Find communities that want to witness YOU and encourage your growth, but do the same for other folks. Show folks that you are really paying attention to what they are doing especially when they are being vulnerable with what they share. Don’t just wait your turn. Encouraging other folks informs your artistic practice and your development as a human being. Work on being a better citizen as artistic practice.”

Currently the Jacob Ziskind Poet-in-residence at Brandeis University, Hill is the author of “How Her Spirit Got Out” (Aforementioned Productions, 2016), which received the 2017 Jean Pedrick Chapbook Prize.

She has had work featured on stage at the Massachusetts Poetry Festival, Boston Book Festival, Blacksmith House, Cantab Lounge, Haley House, U35 Reading Series and other venues.

Hill’s work has appeared in The Academy of American Poets’ Poem-a-Day Series, Poetry Magazine, Painted Bride Quarterly, Up the Staircase Quarterly, Winter Tangerine Review, Rust + Moth, and elsewhere.

Recipient of the 2020 Mass Cultural Council Poetry Fellowshop, she has received the 2023 Vermont Studio Center Residency, 2024 SWWIM Residency, and The Kenyon Review’s 2024 Peter Taylor Fellowship.

MCC Visiting Writers Series is co-sponsored by the Creative Writing Program and the Office of Student Engagement. For more information, contact StudentEngagement@middlesex.edu or call 978-656-3363.
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MCC’s Corporate Education Helps Community Partner Train Employees10/30/202411/13/2024 10:10 AM
​Middlesex Community College partners with Aved Electronics in Billerica on a Workforce Training Fund Program. Run through MCC’s Corporate and Community Education and Training department, the college worked with Aved to write and submit the grant, as well as to offer employee trainings.

“MCC has a commendable history of performance,” said Marg Drouin, Training Manager at Aved. “They offer a comprehensive selection of programs along with various instructors. MCC assisted me in writing the application for the grant, which is time consuming and tedious. This made a tremendous difference. MCC’s contributions have allowed us to enhance our learning resources and improve the quality of education offered to our employees.”

“As a proud community partner, we collaborate with Aved to ensure their employees advance their skills,” said Lisa Tuzzolo, MCC’s Senior Director of Corporate Education and Training. “Working closely with our partners on the grants from start to finish, we help companies make the most of the funding to meet the needs of their workforce, combining curriculum that is relevant to the industry and instructors who are experts in their fields.”

Founded in 1979, Aved provides services for battery packs for industries including medical defense, robotics and communications, according to Drouin. The company partnered with Middlesex to offer their employees training programs in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and management.

Working with Drouin, MCC’s Corporate and Community Education and Training team helped build the curriculum and match instructors to meet the company’s needs. Classes are offered on-site during working hours to make attending the programs easier.

“I need to read, write and speak in English,” said Anjanaben Patel, a Battery Assembler at Aved. “I learned how to speak in English and understand how to talk with other people.”

Middlesex has partnered with Aved on two Workforce Training Fund Grants, including in 2018 and 2022. Once approved, the college worked with Drouin and the company to implement the trainings for current and newly hired employees.

“I wanted to take ESOL because it’s used for communication everywhere, and required at many companies,” said Sangita Patel, a Solderer at Aved. “Before, I couldn’t do the job, this is my first experience and it’s a memorable first job.”
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MCC to Host Fall Open House on Bedford Campus10/28/202411/13/2024 10:10 AM
​From a variety of course options and formats to award-winning student support services and expert professionals, Middlesex Community College guides students on the path to success. Middlesex will host the Fall Open House at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6 on the Bedford Campus.

“We are so excited to welcome the community to our Fall Open House in Bedford to show everyone all that the college has to offer to students of varying needs,” said Jennifer Migliozzi, MCC’s Assistant Dean of Admissions. “Our Open House presents the perfect opportunity for prospective students and their families to better understand the application process, have their questions about attending college answered, and connect with the resources and people we have here who will help them be successful from day one.”

During the Fall Open House, students and their families will have the opportunity to meet with faculty, speak with staff from all the student service areas, take a campus tour, and apply to MCC. The event will cover experiences students can access while attending MCC, including academic and career counseling, college programs, financial aid, free tutoring, and more.

Information on specialized services will also be shared, such as Dual Enrollment for high school and homeschooled students, honors opportunities for those interested in the Commonwealth Honors Programs, and Student Access and Support Services.

"We are looking forward to showing you our beautiful campus and supportive environment,” Migliozzi said. “Register to get an inside look at MCC before you start your academic journey!”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/admissions/ for more information and to RSVP for the Fall Open House.
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Biotech Alumna Returns to MCC as Professor10/24/202411/12/2024 10:48 AM
Livia Fernandes is an alumna of Middlesex Community College’s biotechnology program. In the Fall of 2024, she returned to the college to teach in the program as an Assistant Professor. In her role, she can guide students on a similar path of success as her own. The following is her MCC story in her own words.

I was born in Brazil and moved to the United States in 2001. After finishing high school here, I was fortunate to meet incredible teachers who encouraged me to pursue a degree in science. At the time, my biggest fear was the language barrier – I wasn’t convinced that I had mastered English enough to succeed in college here in the U.S.

One of my former high school teachers recommended that I apply to Middlesex Community College and introduced me to several supportive staff members, which led to me starting at MCC as a biology major.

My journey in biotechnology truly began during my time at MCC, where Dr. Mariluci Bladon opened my eyes to the wide-ranging possibilities of an associate degree. I then switched my major from biology to biotechnology.

While completing my prerequisites for the associate in biotechnology, I was fortunate to intern at Biogen, which led to a full-time job. The flexible hours in the biotechnology program allowed me to continue working full-time while finishing my degree part-time.

The flexible class schedule and the knowledgeable, supportive professors were key factors that contributed to my success at Middlesex. This is still why I recommend MCC as the perfect place to start anyone’s academic journey.

After graduating from the biotechnology program, I transferred to Boston University and earned my bachelor’s degree in biomedical and clinical laboratory sciences. Later, I pursued a master’s degree in bioscience administration from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI).

My foundational experience at MCC and throughout my academic journey has been crucial to my rewarding career, which has spanned over 10 years in the biopharma industry.

One of the highlights of my career was at Biogen Idec, where I applied my industry knowledge to develop curriculum modules on Ultrafiltration Operations, Chromatography Systems, and Aseptic Operations. This hands-on experience has shaped my teaching approach, allowing me to provide students with real-world insights and prepare them for industry-relevant challenges.

As a professor, I strive to foster interactive learning. I have incorporated practical labs and real-world case studies into my classes, which has led to positive feedback from students who report a deeper understanding of the material. I’ve also seen significant improvements in student performance, with many achieving higher grades and enhanced critical thinking skills.

MCC’s dedication to academic excellence and inclusivity strongly resonates with me. I’m particularly drawn to the biotechnology program's focus on hands-on learning and preparing students for success in the rapidly evolving biotech industry.

I am eager to contribute to the college’s mission of empowering students to become productive and socially responsible members of the community. I am thrilled to join the biotechnology department at Middlesex Community College as an Assistant Professor.
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MCC to Host Transfer Fairs to Help Students Explore Next Steps10/22/202411/8/2024 9:54 AM
For individuals of all ages and stages in their lives, Middlesex Community College offers a strong starting point for continuing their education and entering the workforce. To introduce students to different four-year college and universities, Middlesex is hosting transfer fairs on both the Lowell and Bedford campuses in October.

“We encourage our students to explore the many options available to them and to begin planning early for their next steps after graduating,” said Jane Fain, MCC’s Coordinator of Transfer Affairs. “Our transfer fairs help students gain important admissions information on potential schools and start developing their plan. We hold fairs in both the Fall and Spring semesters because having these conversations as soon as possible while at MCC helps students avoid unwanted surprises or roadblocks once they’re ready to transfer.”

During each fair, students have opportunities to meet with admissions representatives from a number of institutions. They can learn about varying four-year school’s offerings and requirements for transferring after they graduate from MCC. This year’s fairs will welcome more than 40 colleges and universities.

Admissions representatives are experts on their school’s information and a resource to MCC students as they explore their options, according to Fain. Meeting with the representatives helps students get a better sense of how selective and competitive institutions are, as well as know important deadlines and scholarship information.

MCC helps students transfer to four-year colleges and universities across New England and nationwide each year. With a number of articulation agreements and MassTransfer, MCC makes the transfer process as easy as possible.

By starting at Middlesex, students can save thousands on tuition costs by completing their general education requirements before attending a four-year school. At MCC, students get early exposure to their field of interest, with courses, hands-on experiences, and networking opportunities in just the first two years of their academic journey.

“At MCC, we strive to work with our students to develop and put into action a plan for their academic, transfer and career goals from day one of their time with us,” said Nick Cloutier, MCC’s Coordinator of Transfer. “We are excited for this year’s fairs to help our students meet with different institutions, explore their options, and find the best fit that meets their needs. You want to start the process as soon as possible!”

The Lowell Transfer Fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Cowan Center Cafeteria on Wednesday, October 30. Students can attend the Bedford Transfer Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Campus Center on Thursday, October 31. For more information, contact Fain at FainJ@middlesex.mass.edu.
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MCC Hosts Transfer & STEM Panel to Celebrate Transfer and STEM Week 10/24/202411/7/2024 10:33 AM
​In celebration of Transfer Week and Massachusetts STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) Week, Middlesex Community College hosted a panel on Monday, October 21. Students learned tips and strategies about the transfer process from MCC STEM alumni, as well as representatives from four-year schools.

“These kinds of panels are a great place to start to learn about the process of transfer, to consider new opportunities, and really just think about how to think about this process,” said Debra Boucher, Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Studies at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). “For so many students, the only firsthand knowledge we have of college is what we’ve seen in the media. Talking to professionals and other students who understand this process can make it less intimidating and help students trust that it could be for them.”

During the virtual event, students learned more about the transfer process and their options after graduating from Middlesex. This includes going through the admissions process, understanding requirements, and hearing more about their transfer options.

Students were also able to ask questions from MCC graduates who started at the community college level. Panelists shared their own experiences, including their next steps after finishing their degree at Middlesex and their paths to their current careers in a variety of STEM fields.

“Events like the STEM transfer panel give students an opportunity to learn from other students who have been in the same spot they are in now,” said Nick Cloutier, MCC’s Coordinator of Transfer. “They can see that their questions and concerns are valid and that they may not be alone with those thoughts.”

Panels are one effort Middlesex offers to assist students with the transfer process. In addition to meeting with academic advisors, the college provides resources, networking opportunities, and events such as annual transfer fairs. These tools help students understand what options are available to them for their next steps, including learning about deadlines and when and how to make a decision.

“Early planning is key to a successful and smooth transfer,” said Jane Fain, MCC’s Coordinator of Transfer Affairs. “Students who plan to transfer should transfer to pursue a higher degree if that better aligns with their career goals. That can also lead to a student’s personal growth, deeper knowledge of the subject, and new opportunities such as career advancement.”

Panelists included Boucher, Cloutier, Fain, as well as WPI Interim Dean of Undergraduate Studies Arne Gericke, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Director of Transfer and Graduate Admission JoAnna Baker, MCC alum Christian North, and MCC STEM professor Scott Gordon.

“Our students at MCC are capable and ambitious,” said Russell Olwell, Dean of Education and K-16 Partnerships. “We want them to think broadly about their transfer options, whether in STEM or outside STEM fields. This panel introduced MCC students to folks who can help advise and mentor them on the transfer journey.”
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MCC’s Math Co-requisite Helps Students Finish Requirements in First Year10/21/202411/5/2024 1:38 PM
For the Fall 2024 semester, Middlesex Community College introduced a new mathematics co-requisite. The option helps student save time and money by completing their math requirement in the first year of college.

“Co-requisite math education allows students to develop essential math skills while directly applying them to the topics they are studying in their college-level math course,” said Dr. Linda Dart-Kathios, MCC Math Faculty Member. “We have been offering these courses for several years to help students complete their college-level math requirements within their first year at Middlesex.”

A math co-requisite allows a student to fulfil a math requirement at the same time they are taking a paired math class. According to “The Long-Term Impacts of Corequisite Mathematics Remediation with Statistics: Degree Completion and Wage Outcomes,” college math completion rates show students taking co-requisite math courses are 50 percent more likely to complete a college-level math course and complete an associate degree within three years than those who take the traditional math sequence.

Math co-requisite pairings allow students – who might not otherwise be ready or willing – an option to enroll directly into a college-level course. Benefits include a boost in confidence, strengthening math knowledge and skills, and one-on-one support from tutors embedded in the course.

“At MCC, we are always looking for ways to better guide our students to success,” said Dr. Marie Tupaj, MCC’s Dean of STEM. “The math co-requisite presents a clearer path to completing their college math requirements, while making math more accessible to all students. Each class is taught by the same professor, so students feel comfortable as they hone their skills.”

Upon completion of the co-requisite, students will receive a traditional letter grade in both classes. The college-level math course will apply toward graduation requirements and is transferable to a four-year institution.

Course options within the co-requisite include Skills for College Math, Skills Development or Skills Development for Precalculus paired with Statistics, Precalculus for Engineering and Science, Math for Liberal Arts or Precalculus for Business and Social Science.

An MCC student said, “Having the mix of learning basic math skills and statistics at the same time was very helpful.”

For more information, email Dart-Kathios at KathiosL@middlesex.edu.
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MCC’s Mini-mester II Offers Second Chance to Take Classes This Fall10/7/202411/4/2024 11:02 AM
​Middlesex Community College’s Fall 2024 Mini-mester II will kick off on Monday, October 28. A popular and convenient option, the accelerated, eight-week semester allows students to start their education sooner, fit more classes into their schedules, and finish their program faster.

“Mini-mesters provide additional options for our students,” said Ashli Ree, MCC’s Professor and Program Coordinator, Fashion Merchandising. “For various reasons, not all students are ready to start in the beginning of a traditional 15-week semester. This is why I’m teaching a First Year Experience Course as part of Mini-mester II for students starting college for the first time in late October. Some students have shared that the format helps them focus more because of the shorter timeline.”

The accelerated eight-week Mini-mesters offer the same content, academic standards, and number of instructional hours as courses scheduled during the traditional 15-week semester. Students can earn transferable college credit while completing general education requirements.

“While an eight-week course does include an intensive workload, students develop strong time management skills and pace themselves weekly while keeping up with the required readings and submitting course assignments and assessments assigned by their professor on the designated due dates,” said Nancy Pynchon, MCC’s Coordinator of the ECE Career Pathways Grant. “Successfully completing a Mini-mester course allows students the option to continue into the next semester and earn credits, so that they can reach their academic goals in a faster pace!”

Subjects taught as part of Mini-mester II include the arts and humanities, business, social science, and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Classes may be offered on-campus, online, hybrid or hyflex.

No matter your age or income, community college is now free in Massachusetts! The MassEducate and MassReconnect programs allow at Massachusetts residents who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree to attend MCC for free. This includes students taking classes as part of Mini-mester II.

“Mini-mester classes are an excellent way to immerse yourself in one class at a time, while still allowing you to take more than one class per semester,” said Dr. Jennifer Bauer, MCC’s Chair of Communication, Art & Design.

MCC will host two Open Houses this Fall. A Bedford Open House will take place at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, October 29, while a Biotechnology and Health Open House will take place at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434 for more information and to register.
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MCC Student Connects With Community and Explores New Pathway10/17/202410/31/2024 10:28 AM
After moving from Ghana to Dracut, Dorothy Boateng joined Middlesex Community College on the advice of a family friend. The college’s opportunities helped her explore different study options and engage with peers, leading her to find a community and a meaningful career path.

“Once I joined MCC and heard about the different programs at the college, I started to research career options,” Boateng said. “Right now, I am interested in becoming a medical laboratory technician and look forward to learning more about the field and becoming good at the craft. This feels like something I want to do.”

Before joining MCC, Boateng studied computer science at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana. During her transition, she found guidance and became more comfortable with the college environment through MCC Professor Jose Pacheco-Saya. In the spring, Saya encouraged Boateng to become a Supplemental Instruction (SI) Leader, through the Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE), to support his biology course.

As an SI, Boateng helped students with navigating and understanding online platforms such as Blackboard and Zoom, as well as developing their time management, communication and study skills. The role allowed Boateng to build her academic confidence and gave her a clearer idea of the career path she wants to pursue. She also found she enjoyed talking to classmates.

Boateng currently works in MCC’s Office of Student Engagement (OSE) as a Student Greeter. During her office hours, she prints MCC IDs and welcomes and informs students about OSE services and how to create and organize a club. The opportunity has allowed her to meet new students and find a sense of belonging at the college.

“I do not look at my position at OSE as a job,” Boateng said. “The role has become a part of me. I am more open to speaking with people and have become less shy. By getting more involved in activities, I no longer rush home after class and try to have more conversations.”

After graduating from MCC, Boateng plans on furthering her education by transferring to a four-year state school. Based on her positive experiences at Middlesex, she encourages incoming students to socialize and be open-minded as they start their academic journeys.

“Students should get involved in school activities,” Boateng said. “They make you less reserved and give you a community to rely on. Once I started to make changes in my routine and put myself out there, I felt great. They were some of the best decisions I ever made.”
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Celebrate Halloween with MCC’s NEW Trunk or Treat ‘Spooktacular’ Event10/2/202410/30/2024 11:52 AM
Middlesex Community College is excited to host the first-ever Trunk of Treat. The event will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the college’s Bedford Campus on Saturday, October 26. Proceeds will go toward the Middlesex Community College Foundation to raise funds for student scholarships.

“Our goal is to build bonds and establish a community of belonging within MCC and the greater community,” said Kayla Caron, MCC’s Registrar and Interim Dean of Enrollment. “Since before the pandemic, this is the first event of its kind where we can pull everyone together and celebrate in this way. Trunk or Treat is a great opportunity to get into the holiday spirit, have fun, eat candy, and raise money for an excellent cause.”

Trunk or Treat is an alternative version of trick-or-treating, according to Caron. Participants decorate the trunks of their vehicles in celebration of Halloween. Children and families can then walk car-to-car to collect candy and greet community members.

MCC’s version of the event will also feature games, food trucks, a trunk decoration contest, and more.

The event will take place in MCC’s Bedford Quad and Parking Lot D at 591 Springs Road. Students, employees and their families can participate for free with an MCC ID. Community members can pay $10 per car load to trick or treat or $25 to participate in the decorated car contest and hand out candy.

Visit https://bit.ly/3ZFwl4w to register.

“MCC’s suburban campus in Bedford is especially beautiful this time of year and provides the perfect backdrop to get into the Halloween spirit,” Caron said. “Join us for a ‘spooktacular’ good time!”
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MCC to Host Fall Biotech and Health Open House on Lowell Campus10/16/202410/29/2024 9:31 AM
Middlesex Community College helps students enter the workforce of some of the most in-demand health and STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) industries in the state. A Fall Open House focused on MCC’s health and biotechnology programs will be held at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, October 29 in Lowell will introduce prospective students and their families to these offerings.

“Our health students are well-prepared to enter their field of work with hands-on clinical and lab hours combined with industry-driven curriculum that is taught by professors who are experts in their fields,” said Karen Townsend, MCC’s Dean of Health. “We’re excited to showcase our programs, state-of-the-art spaces, supportive faculty, and award-winning student support services. If you are interested in a rewarding and stable career in health, join us at the event to learn more about how MCC can get you started on your path.”

MCC’s health programs include nursing, dental assisting, dental hygiene, dental laboratory technology, diagnostic medical sonography, healthcare administration, medical assisting, medical laboratory technician, and radiologic technology.

“The biotechnology program at MCC is a leader of producing well-prepared graduates to work in the industry in Massachusetts,” said Dr. Marie Tupaj, MCC’s Dean of STEM. “Our faculty bring their experiences working in the field to the classroom in addition to offering practical experiences through our fully renovated lab and paid internship offerings. The Open House will allow us to feature the value of the program, including the career development and networking opportunities we provide to our guide our students to success.”

The Lowell Open House will allow students and their families the opportunity to meet with faculty, speak with staff from all the student service areas, and apply to MCC. Additional experiences includes learning about academic and career counseling, financial aid, free tutoring, Dual Enrollment, honors opportunities, and Student Access and Support Services.

Middlesex will also host a Fall Open House in Bedford at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6. Students can learn about all programs, take a tour of the Bedford campus, and apply to MCC.

“MCC offers many opportunities for students of all ages, backgrounds and goals to reach success,” said Jenna Hurd, MCC’s Assistant Director of Admissions. “Whether you’re exploring your options or are interested in learning more about our biotechnology and health options, we look forward to welcoming you on our campuses for the Open House events!”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/admissions/ for more information and to RSVP for the Fall Open Houses.
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MCC to Host Third Annual Lowell Asian American Film Festival9/30/202410/28/2024 10:23 AM
​Middlesex Community College is proud to present the third annual Lowell Asian American Film Festival (LAAFF) starting on Friday, October 18 at MCC’s Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center. Over two days, Middlesex will screen Asian American-directed films from across the country in celebration of art, culture and diversity.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the third annual Lowell Asian American Film Festival, a vibrant testament to the ever-growing diversity and creativity within our community,” said Virak Uy, MCC’s Director, Program for Asian American Student Advancement. “Since its inception in 2022, LAAFF has become a beacon for aspiring Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) filmmakers, offering a powerful platform to share their stories and connect with audiences nationwide. This year, we are excited to expand our festival with a dynamic short film competition across four categories, showcasing the richness and depth of AAPI experiences.”

LAAFF films feature the Asian American experience with a film director, animator or screenwriter identifying as Asian American. A film workshop for students will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday before the 5 p.m. opening reception and 6 p.m. screening of the film “Home Court” with a Q&A with the director and producer.

Events on Saturday, October 19 will kick off at 11 a.m. with a screening of animated shorts and student shorts at noon. At 1:30 p.m. there will be a screening of narrative shorts and a 2:30 p.m. screening of documentary shorts/ After an award ceremony and reception, a screening of the closing film “A Great Divide” will start at 5:30 p.m. followed by a Zoom Q&A with the director and producer.

Middlesex accepted submissions on FilmFreeway through August for four categories, including Narrative Short Film, Documentary Short Film, Animated Short Film, and Student Short Film. Awards will be offered in three categories for Best Feature Film, Best Animated Film, and Best Local Film. Winners will receive between $100 to $250, as well as a festival laurel.

The 2024 LAAFF is sponsored by MCC and funded in part by a grant from the City of Lowell American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) the college received last year.

“By celebrating these incredible films and supporting our local economy, LAAFF continues to shine a light on Lowell as a premier destination for arts and culture,” Uy said. “Join us as we create opportunities for dialogue, connection, and collective healing through the transformative power of film.”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/laaff/ to reserve a seat or email laaff@middlesex.edu for more information
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MCC Launches “Let’s Talk” to Offer Free Drop-in Services from Wellness Resource Center9/25/202410/24/2024 2:50 PM
​In support of the whole student, Middlesex Community College launched Let’s Talk, a free and confidential drop-in service from the college’s Wellness Resource Center (WRC). Offered weekly in both Bedford and Lowell, the meetings provide an opportunity to talk with a wellness counselor without having to make an appointment.

“Students often face many challenges and barriers when attending college, in addition to the external stressors in their personal and professional lives,” said Amy Mahoney, LICSW, MCC’s Wellness Counselor. “Our Let’s Talk series makes counseling more accessible, helping the process feel less daunting in terms of commitment or time. Students will have the opportunity to process their thoughts and feelings in a safe environment.”

Throughout the Fall semester, Let’s Talk will be offered from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays in the Lowell Cowan Center and on Wednesdays in the Bedford Enrollment Center. Students can drop in to a virtual session from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays. Registration is not required.

Talking with students one-on-one, the wellness counselor will listen to concerns and offer support, perspective, problem-solving, and suggestions for resources. This provides students with an opportunity to learn what it is like to receive support through a mental health provider.

“Let’s Talk sessions are informal, you just drop by during the timeframe and wait for your turn to speak with a counselor for 10 to 15 minutes,” said Michael Chan, MCC’s WRC Intern from William James College. “We can talk through a problem you’re having, whether you’re feeling stressed or anxious, finding classes to be too difficult, worried about your family and friends, or more. Drop in to talk things through!”

Students who wish to continue speaking with an MCC wellness counselor can make an appointment with Mahoney or Chan. Counseling sessions help students accomplish personal and academic goals in a private and confidential meeting.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/wellnessandessentialneeds/ for more information.
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MCC Faculty Member to Perform as Part of College Concert Series for Honors Students10/15/202410/24/2024 10:01 AM
As part of the Fall 2024 “A World of Music” concert series, Middlesex Community College will present Afro-Brazilian Music with Marcus Santos. Co-sponsored by MCC’s Commonwealth Honors Program (CHP), the concert will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22 at MCC’s Concert Hall in Bedford.

“The CHP is excited to collaborate on offering students and the community an enriching academic experience and a celebration of cultural diversity and artistic talent: Afro-Brazilian Music with Marcus Santos,” said Binnur Ercem, MCC’s Professor of Sociology & Cultural Anthropology and Director of the CHP. “The CHP is dedicated to providing an equitable and inclusive space where intellectually curious and motivated students can reach their fullest potential while enhancing their college experience. The ‘World of Music’ concert series perfectly aligns with these values by offering a platform for students to engage with diverse cultures and musical traditions from around the world.”

An MCC music faculty member, Santos, drummer, will give a lecture recital which explores the vibrant rhythm and rich heritage of Afro-Brazilian culture. Examples of drumming and dancing from traditions such as maculelê and samba-reggae will be featured. He will be joined by dancer Kaitlyn Jolly and percussionist Jobeth Umali.

MCC’s CHP provides equitable and inclusive opportunities for intellectually curious and motivated students to develop their fullest potential and enrich their college experience. Binnur Ercem, MCC’s Professor of Sociology & Cultural Anthropology and Director of the CHP, believes the “A World of Music” concert series matches the values of the CHP.

“A World of Music” will host two remaining concerts this Fall, including the Lowell Chamber Orchestra (LCO) at the Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23 and a Student Recital at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, December 2 in the Bedford Concert Hall.

Previous concerts included the LCO on Sunday, September 8; Duos and Trios Featuring Cello, Piano and Flute on Sunday, October 6; and Phantom of the Opera with Live Music at on Thursday, October 17.

All concerts are free and open to the public.

MCC’s Concert Hall is located in Henderson Hall at 591 Springs Road in Bedford. Parking is available on-campus.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/worldofmusic/ for more information.
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MCC Business Student Wins Pitch Contest Award10/10/202410/22/2024 11:01 AM
From India and now living in Lowell, Hency Patel has an entrepreneurial spirit. With a goal of starting his own business, he started to study business administration at Middlesex Community College. In his second semester, Patel participated in the annual Launch at MCC Pitch Contest and won a $1,200 award for his Athlete Hub app.

“I am passionate about developing this app,” Patel said. “With the prize money I won from the pitch contest, I can fund the project. Receiving the award felt like a full-circle moment in my entrepreneurial journey. Presenting my idea was a bit nerve-wracking, but I made sure everything was professional and well-thought-out.”

To prepare his presentation on the app, Patel created a slideshow with an outline, as well as put together a website. Now, he’s looking to start an entrepreneurship club with one of his peers from the pitching contest. The club will help people create and implement their ideas, as well as connect members with other entrepreneurs.

Patel comes from a family who owns businesses throughout the United States. Managing a clothing line and an online store gave him hands-on knowledge and experience about business and customer engagement. This influenced him to pursue starting his own business.

When searching for colleges, Patel’s friends told him about MCC and how much they enjoyed their experiences. Upon learning the college met his academic and professional goals, he joined the college in late 2023.

“My friends mentioned the resources and support systems, and how the offerings would help me with my future,” Patel said. “Once I heard their views on MCC, I felt more confident about joining and knew it was the right choice.”

In Patel’s educational journey, MCC faculty and staff have helped him feel welcome. Resources such as the MCC Libraries also provide him with a quiet environment where he can study. He credits much of his academic success to MCC’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE) and the services they provide. In addition to tutoring, he can build his resume, edit essays, and get assistance with assignments.

The affordability of the classes and being able to transfer to a four-year institution after completing his program of study is a huge benefit for Patel. He also appreciates MCC’s diverse student demographic which made his transition to the college environment easier. The various people with different backgrounds he saw and engaged with made him feel included.

“You are going to find great people from every culture and religion,” Patel said. “MCC made the most sense financially and academically for the long-term.”
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MCC to Feature Classic Silent Film with Live Music Led by Music Alum10/10/202410/21/2024 11:07 AM
Middlesex Community College is excited to feature the film “The Phantom of the Opera” with Live Music as part of the Fall “A World of Music” concert series. Led by MCC alum Dylan Jack, the performance will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 17 at MCC’s Richard and Nancy Donahue Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell.

“MCC is the reason why I am leading a band, booking concerts, and releasing albums,” Jack said. “My confidence as a musician started at MCC, thanks to the encouragement of Carmen [Rodríguez-Peralta, MCC’s Chair of Music] and the entire music department. Young musicians need institutions like MCC as a springboard. The fact that I'm still involved with the MCC community as a performer 15 or 16 years after graduating is an honor and I'm so happy that they continue to have me back."

The haunting American silent film from 1925 will be presented with music by the Dylan Jack Quartet.. In addition to Jack, the ensemble includes Eric Hofbauer, guitar; Jerry Sabatini, trumpet, and Tony Leva, bass and electronics. They will play an original soundtrack, both composed and improvised.

“With this performance of ‘The Phantom of the Opera,’ it is my hope to focus on the story between the Opera Ghost Erik and leading lady Christine,” Jack said. “Musical themes keep them in focus throughout as characters and scenes intertwine like a blurry backdrop. Inmy version, Christine and Erik triumph, but the four of us in the performance need to tell our own story and interpret our feelings just like those in attendance will do.”

This Fall, the Lowell Chamber Orchestra (LCO) will also perform at the Academic Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23. “A World of Music” will also hold performances at MCC’s Concert Hall on the Bedford Campus, including Afro-Brazilian Music with Marcus Santos at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22, co-sponsored by MCC’s Commonwealth Honors Program; and a Student Recital at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, December 2.

A previous performance from the Lowell Chamber Orchestra kicked off the Fall season on Sunday, September 8 and the college also hosted Duos and Trios Featuring Cello, Piano and Flute on Sunday, October 6.

All concerts are free and open to the public.

MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/worldofmusic/ for more information.
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After Hesitating to go to College, Alumna Had “Amazing Experience” at MCC10/3/202410/17/2024 11:11 AM
After graduating from high school, Vanessa Waugh, of Tewksbury, was uncertain of her next steps. She felt she should go to college, but did not know what to pursue for a major or career. A conversation with her parents led her to Middlesex Community College where she was able to explore her options, find her path, and connect with the community.

“I had an absolutely amazing experience with my time at MCC,” Waugh said. “As someone who was very nervous about going to college, it was so relieving to be surrounded by such a kind and outgoing group of people. From the first day I just felt like I belonged and that I was not alone. We were all in the same boat.”

At Middlesex, Waugh started off as an undeclared major before deciding on Liberal Arts and Sciences. In addition to allowing her to complete her general education requirements, she was able to tailor her course schedule to her interests and timeframe. This led Waugh to the theatre department where MCC’s Chair of Performing Arts Karen Oster was one of the first to make her feel welcomed at the college.

In her first semester at Middlesex, Waugh auditioned for and performed in MCC’s production of “Dead Man’s Cell Phone.” She continued to stay involved with the program, enjoying how Oster chose productions related to current world challenges and social issues. To prepare for performances, Oster would have Waugh and her castmates analyze the script to make sure they found the best way to depict the show.

“There is a lot of thought and hard work that goes into the productions, and it just makes the whole experience feel so rewarding,” Waugh said. “I have never had more fun participating in a show than I have at MCC. I genuinely could never thank Karen enough for countless opportunities she’s granted me and for being someone I can always rely on when I need help.”

Apart from the Fall and Spring productions, Waugh performed with the department at MCC’s commencement and at the Lowell City of Lights Parade. Oster also helped connect Waugh to community partners and external opportunities, such as with the Merrimack Repertory Theatre (MRT).

Due to MCC’s partnership with MRT, Waugh was able to play a role in productions for the organization. This includes the chance to sing at MRT’s annual gala and do a table read for a new play with the writer this past summer. Having these opportunities helped Waugh grow and be successful in her academic pursuits, as well as more clearly develop her personal and professional goals.

“Having these experiences taught me how to present myself in the best light,” Waugh said. “I know that while others' impression or opinion of me is important, it is not the end all be all of every situation, and that sometimes it isn’t about me specifically, but rather that they were just looking for something else. This logic has really helped me deal with everyday situations, like applying for schools, jobs, and even just day-to-day interactions.”

After graduating from Middlesex in the Spring of 2024, Waugh transferred to UMass Lowell. Although she was hesitant to go to college in the first place, she believes MCC was the perfect starting point to figure out her plans. She is grateful for the experiences she gained at Middlesex both in and outside of the classroom.

“My education from MCC has already had a huge impact on helping me reach my goals,” she said. “I am currently halfway through a bachelor’s degree program with absolutely no debt or student loans taken out."
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MCC Selected as Host Site for National “Amplifying Student Voices” Convening10/8/202410/16/2024 10:59 AM
[Bedford/Lowell, Mass.] – 10/24 – Middlesex Community College is proud to announce its participation as one of 40 host institutions for the Amplifying Student Voices (ASV) convening, a national hybrid event organized by the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) in partnership with the American Association of Colleges & Universities (AAC&U) and the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) Campus Centers.

This event took place nationwide on Saturday, October 5, 2024, and brought together more than 400 student leaders to engage in both virtual and in-person dialogues on the future of belonging, diversity, and equity in higher education and on strategies for fulfilling the promise of an inclusive democracy.

As a host institution, MCC welcomed 13 student leaders from the campus to participate. The convening offered students an opportunity to discuss their unique perspectives on how to create and sustain diverse and equitable communities.

“It was important for local students to participate ­– and for MCC to host this event – to hear direct feedback from students about what an equitable environment look like, what resources they may need access to, and what community support they would like to see,” said Maria Isabel Gariepy, MCC’s Executive Director of Diversity, Equity & Belonging. “The majority of the 400+ nationwide attendees agreed that they would like to see increased advocacy on the part of staff and faculty at their campuses to ensure that their educational promises are fulfilled.”

Student perspectives gathered during this convening will contribute to the ongoing conversation about how higher education can better serve all individuals and communities. They will also inform the work of NADOHE and AAC&U and the efforts of their members, as well as business, community, and nonprofit leaders seeking to advance more equitable and inclusive environments.

“Decision-making in higher education and in our communities should be informed by student voices and their engagement in a collaborative process,” said NADOHE President and CEO Paulette Granberry Russell. “This student convening will provide an opportunity for this collaboration to occur.”

“Centering student voices and fostering the next generation of leaders committed to safeguarding democracy and promoting a just and equitable future is more urgent than ever,” said AAC&U President Lynn Pasquerella. “We are proud to partner with NADOHE in striving to achieve our shared objectives, grounded in TRHT's mission of jettisoning the belief in a hierarchy of human value.”

The Amplifying Student Voices project is supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Lumina Foundation.

For more information, contact Gariepy at GariepyM@middlesex.edu.
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At MCC, Student Pursues Dream of Being a Nurse and Musician9/26/202410/15/2024 10:49 AM
​As Taye Olasedidun works part-time in a mental healthcare role, he is studying to become a nurse at Middlesex Community College. From Nigeria and now living in Lowell, Olasedidun is also a guitarist hoping to expand his performance opportunities. MCC is helping him pursue both of his passions.

“Nursing is the best way for me to get financially stable,” Olasedidun said. “I love helping people and I’m not scared of the tasks. Middlesex has a direct pathway to taking the NCLEX [National Council Licensure Examination]. I have a friend who went to MCC, passed the NCLEX, and is working as a registered nurse. I want to be like him.”

Olasedidun started at Middlesex by completing his prerequisites for the nursing program, including science courses. In labs, being able to practice techniques hands-on helps him better remember what he is learning. As he progresses in the “intensive and theory-oriented” program, Olasedidun looks forward to completing his clinical experiences in a local hospital.

When he came to Middlesex as a first-generation student, Olasedidun was led to MCC’s SUCCESS Scholars Program. Support from peer and staff mentors, as well as access to resources, activities and skills development has made him feel more connected to the college’s community. The SUCCESS Scholars Program also provided him with an opportunity to attend a student leadership conference in New Orleans.

“The SUCCESS Scholars staff are amazing,” Olasedidun said. “They have mentors who are there to help and are the easiest and best people to reach out to, especially if you are a new student or even new to the country. They provide jobs and opportunities.”

Joining student clubs has also helped Olasedidun hone his leadership skills. Based on the SUCCESS Scholars Program’s recommendation, he formed the Music Club. As president, he leads a group of guitarists, pianists, drummers and singers in concerts at Middlesex and within the community. This includes as part of the college’s “A World of Music” student recitals.

As event coordinator for the African Cultural Club – and possibly vice president this year – Olasedidun schedules and plans events, presents, and organizes meetings, including the annual Fashion Show. The experiences in both clubs have provided him with networking opportunities, friends and support.

“Being in these clubs strengthens my relationships and connections to MCC itself,” he said. “Comparing my experience here to my friends at a four-year school, we have more access to our advisors and professors.”

While Olasedidun balances working with attending classes, he makes sure to leave time to practice guitar. After completing both Guitar I and Guitar II with faculty member Raley Beggs, Olasedidun continued with one-on-one lessons. He credits Beggs for helping him find a space to reach his music dreams.

Calling playing guitar “my breath of fresh air,” Olasedidun is grateful to have the chance to focus on both becoming a nurse and a guitarist at MCC.

“Middlesex is the right choice for me,” he said. “It takes time, and you have to be determined to succeed. The dream of the destination is a very good motivator, and I use that to push myself.”
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This Fall, MCC to Offer FAA Remote Pilot Certification Course10/1/202410/10/2024 11:11 AM
​This fall, Middlesex Community College will offer an FAA Remote Pilot Certification program. Run by the college’s Community Education and Training (CET) division, the course will take place on MCC’s Bedford Campus starting on Saturday, October 26.

“As a part of the Communications and Creative Services team at the college, I want to show off the beauty of the landscapes that our campuses are a part of, and aerial photography is the best way I can do that,” said Chris Magyar, MCC’s Digital Content Creator and a recent student of the course. “MCC is the best of what community college can be. There is knowledgeable staff, a wide range of courses to take, and our location and reputation provide a deep pool of community partners in which to work.”

Over three days, participants will learn about FAA requirements for drone operations, regulations and safety practices. The 21-hour course covers all of the required knowledge content areas of the FAA’s Remote Pilot Test. Skills include regulations, the National Airspace System, weather, aircraft loading and performance, and flight operations.

The program will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for three consecutive Saturdays, from October 26 to November 9. Previous aviation experience is not required to sign up for the program. Upon completion, students will be prepared to sit for the FAA Remote Pilot Test.

MCC’s CET courses and programs provide employees with the training and skills they need to advance in their careers. Other classes this fall include eligible grant funded programs, including a Business Computer Applications Certificate starting October 22 and Practical Computers beginning November 15.

“I love teaching people how to fly airplanes,” said David Price, Program Instructor. “We’re making 21st century pilots. You’re still flying a registered aircraft in the National Airspace System. The only difference is you’re on the ground and it’s safer. Drones do the jobs that are dangerous for people”.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/careertraining/ for more information and to register for classes.
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MCC Professor of Music Named a Top 100 Latinx Leader in Massachusetts9/19/202410/10/2024 10:39 AM
​Middlesex Community College’s Professor of Music Orlando Cela was chosen by Amplify Latinx as a 2024 top 100 Latinx Leader in Massachusetts, championing and uplifting the Latino community. Cela also completed a certificate for the Program for Latine Creative Entrepreneurs from the Arts and Business Council of Boston.

“The depth and reach of the Arts and Business Council of Boston's Programa de Emprendedores Creativos (Creative Entrepreneur Fellowship) is extraordinary,” Cela said. “Their staff and faculty truly know about every single aspect of the arts business, and they provide guidance, literature, classes, exercises, and events to network and present one's work. The other fellows are artists working in many different mediums, and I can’t believe how much I learned from them about approaching art, and how inspiring they all were. I highly recommend this program to everyone.”

In addition to teaching, Cela is the music director and conductor of the Lowell Chamber Orchestra (LCO). The orchestra collaborates with community partners to host free performances, including as part of MCC’s “A World of Music” concert series each Fall and Spring semester. Cela’s selection by Amplify Latinx and his completion of the certificate is based on his work with the LCO for the last five years.

Created by MCC, the LCO focuses on classical music, educating audiences about music, and promoting the careers of artists from underserved communities. Concerts take place at the college’s Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell.

“MCC was extremely generous to allow me to create an in-house orchestra to serve Lowell,” Cela said. “Orchestra concerts are expensive and professional orchestras outside of Lowell are too far. Socio-economics should not be a barrier to great classical music, so our audiences pay what they wish.”

From Caracas, Venezuela, Cela attended the Colegio Emil Friedman – a school from kindergarten to high school that includes a conservatory. With music as an essential part of education, this inspired Cela’s passion to become a professional musician. After completing a bachelor’s degree on a full ride to DePauw University in Greencastle, Ind., he earned a master’s in flute and conducting from the New England Conservatory.

Before starting to work at Middlesex, he performed several times at the college as part of the concert series. MCC’s Chair of Music Carmen Rodríguez-Peralta introduced Cela to the benefits of a community college, as well as the welcoming environment MCC provides.

“We don’t have such a thing in Venezuela, so it was fascinating to learn the amount of good community colleges do – the wide range of people they help, how flexible they are in terms of providing a way to immediate employment or a four-year institution,” Cela said. “When a position opened at MCC, I naturally applied.”

For the Fall 2024 semester, Cela plans to focus on teaching diverse material. This includes highlighting the work of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and other people of color) composers, as well as the challenges they faced. Cela also hopes to show his students what they can do in their field – from having the LCO play pieces students created in Music Theory classes to holding on-campus performances for students in Music Appreciation classes.

“I hope that the students see that I am an active performer, not just a professor,” he said. “Whatever is being taught in the classroom all comes from real life experiences.”
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MCC Announces Exciting 2024-2025 Season for Theatre Performing Arts9/24/202410/8/2024 9:22 AM
​The Middlesex Community College theatre department is gearing up for an exciting new season! For the 2024-2025 academic year, Middlesex will put on a series of productions of plays and musicals, including through partnerships with Merrimack Repertory Theatre (MRT) and UMass Lowell (UML).

"The MCC theatre department is a community built on collaboration and creativity,” said Karen Oster, MCC’s Chair of Performing Arts. “We're incredibly excited for our 2024-2025 season and to extend our collaboration with MRT and UML. These partnerships not only enrich our productions, but also strengthen the bonds within our community.”

For the Fall 2024 production, MCC students will put on Neil Simon’s award-winning “Rumors.” The farcical play features four couples at a dinner party, including a wounded mayor and his missing wife. MCC’s performances will run from Thursday, December 5 to Sunday, December 8.

In partnership with MRT and UML, Middlesex will hold “Elephant and Piggie’s ‘We Are in a Play’” as part of Theatre for Young Audiences. With book and lyrics by author Mo Willems, the musical features characters from his best-selling books. The shows offer a pre-literacy component for early readers and will run on January 25.

MCC’s Spring 2025 production will be Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods.” The award-winning musical includes characters and stories from popular Brothers Grimm fairytales. Performances will run from Thursday, April 10 to Sunday, April 13.

From Thursday, May 8 to Friday, May 9, MCC students will participate in the Little Left of Center Fest. The annual production includes several short student-directed plays.

The productions will all take place at the college’s Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center. MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St.

“Our line-up features a medley of award-winning plays and musicals that broadcast our students’ and community members’ talents to a wide audience,” Oster said. “We can't wait to share this journey with our audiences!"

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/performingarts/ for more information, including audition dates and ticket information.
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MCC to Host Award-winning Poet & Writer as Part of Visiting Writers Series9/23/202410/7/2024 9:51 AM
​Middlesex Community College will host award-winning poet and writer Pablo Medina as part of the college’s Visiting Writers Series at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, October 9 in the Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell.

“Writing is thinking made visible on the page,” Medina said. “It allows you to pause and shape your thoughts in a careful, ordered way so that they not only make sense, they make music as well.”

Born in Havana, Cuba and raised in New York City, Medina is the author of many published books, including poetry, fiction, memoir and works in translation. This includes the poetry collection “Sea of Broken Mirrors” (Hanging Loose Press, 2024); the novel “The Cuban Comedy” (Unnamed Press, 2019); and his memoir “Exiled Memories: A Cuban Childhood” (U. of Texas Press, 1990).

Also known for his work in translation, Medina translated “The Weight of the Island: Selected Poems of Virgilio Piñera (Diálogos, 2014) and Federico García Lorca’s “Poet in New York” (Grove/Atlantic, 2008) with poet Mark Statman. His work has appeared in The Boston Review, Triquarterly, Poetry, American Poetry Review, Ploughshares and The New Yorker.and the Guggenheim Foundation.

Medina’s prose and poetry have been translated into various languages, including Spanish, French, German, Japanese and Arabic. He has won numerous honors, awards and fellowships, such as from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Professor Emeritus of Fiction, Translation and Poetry at Emerson College, Medina is on the faculty at the Warren Wilson College MFA Program for Writers.

MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St.

MCC Visiting Writers Series is co-sponsored by the Creative Writing Program and the Office of Student Engagement. For more information, contact StudentEngagement@middlesex.edu or call 978-656-3363.
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MCC Student Finds Return to College to be “Fun” While Jumpstarting His Future9/12/202410/3/2024 11:31 AM
A single-father of a 9-year-old-boy, Guy Bastien, of Tyngsborough, is proud to be back at school. Combining his knowledge from previous college-level classes with his professional experience in electronics manufacturing, Bastien came to Middlesex Community College to study electrical engineering.

“It means a lot for my son to see me going back to school,” Bastien said. “Once I had my son, everything changed, including my perspective for life. I’m an example for him, someone he can relate to going to college. I let him know everything I’m doing in classes and at school.”

Before starting to work in electronics, Bastien struggled with housing insecurity. Once he found his footing, he was able to focus on long-term goals, including using funding and support from the state to return to college and get his degree. Resources at Middlesex have helped him adjust to being a full-time student, such as visiting the college’s food pantries where he can get healthy food and connect with staff.

MCC’s TRIO for Student Success Program (SSP) assists Bastien with one-on-one academic, professional and personal advising and building connections at the college. During his time with the program, he has enjoyed attending field trips to learn more about his transfer options, including UMass Lowell (UML) and Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU).

“I’m getting a lot out of TRIO,” Bastien said. “The program helps with self-development, job and career training, and prepares me to have a network of people to work with when I graduate. In particular, Rina [Tenore, MCC’s Lead Advisor of TRIO SSP] is a great person. She’s someone I can always talk to and is very supportive.”

Bastien also names professor Leonardo Nin as having a positive impact on his time at MCC. In his Ethics and Society class, Bastien found Nin to be engaging, making class feel easy, leading interesting conversations, and motivating him to attend. In many of his college-level classes, Bastien appreciates the tone his professors have set for class expectations.

“What I’m getting out of college is nobody is forcing me to be here,” Bastien said. “I make the decision to wake up and go, and when I speak to the professors, there’s a level of respect because they know I’m an adult. It makes me aware that if I put myself in this position, I have to do what I have to do.”

Though he takes a mix of on-campus and online classes, Bastien stays involved in community activities. In addition to attending TRIO-related events, he joined the African Cultural Club to connect with peers. His experiences from the club have helped Bastien feel like he belongs at MCC.

“Everyone I’ve met is friendly,” he said. “I enjoy participating and getting to know people from all different cultures in the club. I like being with people of all ages and backgrounds.”

After he graduates, Bastien plans to transfer to UML to study electrical and mechanical engineering. His biggest end goal is to one day own an electronics manufacturing company. MCC is helping him jumpstart his dreams.

“Being around MCC’s environment, the people and experience of college has been great,” he said. “It’s been a long time since I’ve been in school, but I wanted to go back and get my degree. Looking back, I realized how much I missed at college in the beginning. Now, it’s fun.”
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MCC to Celebrate Hispanic, Latinx/é Heritage Month Heritage Month with Campus Events and Resources9/18/202410/2/2024 11:02 AM
​Middlesex Community College will recognize National Hispanic, Latinx/é Heritage Month with events and resources hosted by the college’s Multicultural Center from September 15 through October 15. The annual national celebration honors the diverse history, cultures, contributions and accomplishments of Hispanic Americans, Latinos, Latinas and Latinx/é identifying individuals.

“We invite you to join us for vibrant and enriching events and opportunities that honor the Hispanic and Latinx communities,” said Maria Isabel Gariepy, MCC’s Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Belonging. “Engaging us through music, art, film, storytelling, scholarship opportunities, and many more – these events foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich heritage that shape our shared experiences. We hope these events inspire and empower all to embrace the beauty of our diverse community.”

"Our National Hispanic, Latinx/é Heritage Month events are vital because they celebrate cultural diversity, promote inclusivity, and provide a sense of belonging for Latinx/é students,” said Maria McDuffie Clark, MCC’s Director of Student Engagement for Equity. “While having fun, these events help bridge gaps, enhance cultural awareness, and support the academic and personal growth of students by acknowledging and valuing their unique identities and experiences!"

On Wednesday, September 18, MCC’s student club LatinX Force will host a Hispanic & Latinx/é Heritage Festival from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Lowell Cowan Center Cafeteria. Participants can enjoy food, music, performances and a lotería – a lottery drawing of numbers for prizes. From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, October 11, LatinX Force will also host a LatinX Homecoming to enjoy music, dancing and food at UTEC Lowell.

MCC’s Center for Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation (CTRHT) will co-sponsor Conversations & Connections to Celebrate Hispanic/Latino/a/e Heritage with Latin Women Moving Forward. The event will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in MCC’s Lowell Federal Building Assembly Room. Opportunities for networking, refreshments, meaningful conversations, and celebration of the vibrant cultural contributions of Hispanic/Latino/a/e communities will be highlighted.

Middlesex will host the El Encuentro Film Festival on Friday, October 4 and Saturday, October 5 in MCC’s Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center. The two-day festival will showcase both emerging and established Latino voices, blending creative storytelling with culture.

In October, MCC will offer two chances to Chat with Your Latine Librarian. The events will run from 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, October 1 in-person in the Lowell Library or Tuesday, October 8 online. MCC librarian Alejandra Méndez will discuss the services and resources that the Libraries offer to help students succeed.

To support the Greater Lowell Community, the college is participating in Lowell’s Hispanic and Latinx Festival on Saturday, September 28. The third annual event is run by the Latinx Community Center for Empowerment and will feature performances, cuisine and dance workshops.

The month kicked off with the event Sancocho & Stories: Latino Men in Higher Ed. with representatives from the college’s staff, faculty and student leaders. While enjoying “sancocho” – a stew consumed by many Latin cultures across the world – a panel shared their unique stories. All month, a series of “Did you know?” posts will be shown on MCC’s digital displays, mobile app and social media.
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Take Charge of Finances with MCC’s Financial Empowerment Series9/17/202410/1/2024 1:46 PM
​Save money, earn a degree, and plan for the future with Middlesex Community College’s Financial Empowerment Series this Fall. In celebration of Financial Empowerment Month, the college will hold an event every Tuesday in October to set up students for financial success.

“The Financial Empowerment series is designed to give students the basic understanding of money management,” said Serrahtani Parrish, MCC’s Success Scholars Program Financial Wellness Coach. “Financial wellness goes beyond just having money, it’s about feeling secure and confident with how you manage it.”

The events will take place from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. from October 1 to October 29 online and on the Lowell Campus. While the first meeting will take place in the Multicultural Center, the remaining sessions will be held in the Lower Cafeteria of the Cowan Center.

On October 1, students will learn about Budgeting and Maintaining Personal Expenses, including the benefits of creating a personal budget. Held on October 8, Creating a Strategic Savings Plan will teach students how to save money for vacations and emergencies, as well as understand how businesses get people to spend money.

For the October 15 session, students will hear about Paying for School. Topics include who is eligible for free community college, what is covered, and how to apply, as well as other ways to pay for school. Understanding and Managing Credit on October 22 will offer a guide for students in debt management and expensive purchases. This includes covering what a credit score is, getting a credit report, and how to maintain a healthy credit.

The final event on October 29, Reducing and Eliminating Debt will provide information on the different types of debt with tools for reducing and eliminating. Parrish will help students make a debt reduction plan if necessary.

Part of the SUCCESS Scholars Program, MCC’s Financial Wellness provides students and alumni with tools for building personal financial understanding and responsibility. The program offers coaching, knowledge of higher education financing and repayment, and tips for budgeting, saving and reducing debt.

All MCC students are invited to attend the Financial Empowerment Series. Lunch will be served for in-person attendees. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/financialwellness/ for more information and to register in advance.
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Noted Cellist and Flutist to Perform with MCC Faculty Member for “World of Music” Concert9/16/20249/30/2024 11:25 AM
​As part of the Fall 2024 “A World of Music” concert series, Middlesex Community College will present Duos and Trios Featuring Cello, Piano and Flute. The concert will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 6 at MCC’s Concert Hall in Bedford.

“Our exciting and varied program features cellist Jesús Castro-Balbi and flutist Jill Dreeben, who are wonderful musicians and friends of mine,” said Carmen Rodríguez-Peralta, pianist, and MCC Chair of Music. “Both have played with me previously at MCC, but this is the first time that we will be performing together.”

During the program, colorful works by Johann Sebastian Bach, Arthur Foote, Larry Bell, Claude Debussy and Gaspar Cassadó will be performed by Rodríguez-Peralta, Castro-Balbi and Dreeben.

“I am thrilled to be performing Larry Bell's new piece Serenade No. 6 for flute, cello and piano with my good friends at MCC,” Dreeben said. “We will be playing the classic flute Sonata in E-major by JS Bach, my favorite composer!”

“I so look forward to returning to MCC and joining my fabulous artist colleagues in a program exploring colorful and engaging music ranging from time-tested favorites to Larry Bell’s exciting new Serenade,” Castro-Balbi said.

This Fall, other concerts held in the Bedford Concert Hall include Afro-Brazilian Music with Marcus Santos at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22 and a Student Recital at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, December 2.

“A World of Music” will also feature performances at the Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell. This includes Phantom of the Opera with Live Music at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 17 and the Lowell Chamber Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23.

A previous performance from the Lowell Chamber Orchestra kicked off the Fall season on Sunday, September 8.

All concerts are free and open to the public.

MCC’s Concert Hall is located in Henderson Hall at 591 Springs Road in Bedford. Parking is available on-campus. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/worldofmusic/ for more information.
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MCC’s Grab n’ Go Initiative Expands Food Services9/10/20249/26/2024 9:09 AM
Middlesex Community College’s Healthy Foods Grab n’ Go Initiative provides students and employees with access to free healthy food options on the Bedford and Lowell campuses. Grant funding from the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, the Merrimack Valley Food Bank (MVFB), Mill City Grows, and Love All Serve All (LASA) has allowed Middlesex to increase food options and locations on campus.

“The Grab n’ Go location expansions provide more food to students and employees in several other areas,” said Jonathan Crockett, MCC’s Coordinator of Essential Needs & Community Resources. “We plan to continue growing and making food convenient for folks to get to while destigmatizing access to free foods. These partnerships are a game changer in terms of what we can offer our community.”

With the support of local organizations – including MVFB and Mill City Grows – the initiative continues to focus on sharing healthy foods, especially fresh fruits and vegetables. Mill City Grows will deliver culturally relevant produce every Tuesday morning. On Wednesdays, MCC picks up and provides offerings from MVFB.

In the past year, with grant funding and donations from MVFB, MCC has provided the students and employees with over 27 tons of food. Bob Bruder, MCC’s Coordinator of Access to Healthy Foods, also purchased two tons of food, while Mill City Grows donated about 700 pounds of produce. MCC’s Bedford Campus community garden also contributes produce that is distributed on the Lowell campus.

During the academic year, students and employees can find food and snack options around campus, such as granola bars and apple sauce. Locations include the Student Information Center, MCC Libraries on both campuses, and the Lowell Academic Centers for Enrichment. Bruder also hosted 10 make-your-own sandwich events on the college’s campuses. Offerings included sandwiches made from deli meat or peanut butter and jelly.

“The events supported different activities and gatherings at MCC,” Bruder said. “They were all well received and people in the community appreciated the food. We were making about 100 sandwiches at each event.”

As part of a new partnership with the Lowell-based organization LASA, MCC receives food donations every Wednesday. This opportunity allows MCC to harvest fruit and vegetables from the college’s own garden. Produce is offered on a table near MCC’s food pantry located in the Lowell Cowan Center Lobby.

“We have been pleased to see how enthusiastic people are about the food resources in the MCC community,” said Crockett. “The connections that have come from the Grab n’ Go Initiative and spaces we provide the food in excites us. Going forward, we have a lot of ideas and are glad to continue expanding.”
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MCC Recognized for Excellence in Student Voter Registration and Turnout During the 2022 Midterm Elections9/11/20249/25/2024 9:21 AM
​The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge (ALL IN) recognized Middlesex Community College for its nonpartisan democratic engagement efforts that fostered high levels of student voter engagement in the 2022 midterm elections. Middlesex received the 2022 Boston Votes Highest Voting Rate: Community College; 2022 Boston Votes Highest Registration Rate: Community College; and the Bronze Seal from ALL IN, reflecting its commitment to ensuring that nonpartisan democratic engagement is a defining feature of campus life.

The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge empowers colleges and universities to achieve excellence in nonpartisan student democratic engagement. MCC was recognized alongside more than 500 campuses using data from the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE) out of Tufts University, which found that colleges and universities had the second-highest voter turnout among students in a midterm election since NSLVE began measuring this data.

“Middlesex is proud to receive this recognition from ALL IN for motivating our students to engage in the voting process,” said Phil Sisson, MCC’s President. “In striving to support our diverse population of students beyond the classroom, tremendous effort has been made collegewide to hold events and opportunities that prepare our students to be active members of their communities. This critical work helps students understand the importance of voting and the influence and difference they can have on addressing issues that directly affect them.”

“The ALL In recognition designates that we have a strong plan of action for promoting civic learning, political engagement, and student voter participation on our campuses,” said Milissa Duncan, MCC’s Coordinator of Civic and Service Learning. “Part of MCC’s mission is to graduate civically engaged students and to emphasize to young people the importance of voting. In support of the whole student, we want them to be actively engaged in their communities and responsible citizens.”

MCC received:
  • 2022 Boston Votes Highest Voting Rate: Community College
  • 2022 Boston Votes Highest Registration Rate: Community College
  • Bronze Seal based on 2022 campus voting rate
“The ALL IN Awards were created to celebrate nonpartisan democratic engagement and the outstanding campus voter registration and turnout rates achieved by our ALL IN campuses. Ahead of the 2024 elections, ALL IN campuses are ready to build on the momentum from 2022 to ensure their communities are ready to make an even bigger impact this fall,” said Jennifer Domagal-Goldman, Executive Director of the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge. “ALL IN is proud to celebrate and honor top-performing campuses, like Middlesex, who demonstrate that nonpartisan student voter engagement is possible and effective.”

More than 1,060 institutions enrolling more than 10 million students participate in the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, which supports colleges and universities in achieving excellence in nonpartisan student voter engagement. Campuses can join ALL IN here.

To recognize National Voter Registration Day on Tuesday, September 17, Middlesex will host tabling events from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both campuses. Led by Duncan, representatives will help community members register to vote, discuss the benefits of voting, and answer questions. There will also be copies of the Constitution on hand in celebration of Constitution Day.

“MCC students and their families are directly impacted by many governmental decisions and political policies pertaining to education, student loan debt, healthcare, childcare, and economics and employment,” Duncan said. “Voting gives them influence and a political voice to influence those decisions. Today’s students are the future of our democracy, and we want to foster an ethic of life-long civic responsibility and empower students to make a difference in their local, state and national governments.”

ABOUT ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge:

The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge (ALL IN) is a national nonpartisan initiative of Civic Nation, a 501(c)(3) organization. The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge strives to change civic culture and institutionalize democratic engagement activities and programs on college campuses, making voter participation a defining feature of campus life.

ALL IN, in collaboration with over 1,050 higher education institutions, seeks to make participation in local, state, and federal elections a social norm; substantially increase the number of college students who are democratically engaged on an ongoing basis, during and between elections, and not just at the polls, and; make educating for democratic engagement on college campuses an accepted and expected part of the culture and curriculum so that students graduate with the knowledge, skills, behaviors, and values needed to be an informed and active citizen.

Discover your path at Middlesex Community College. As one of the largest, most comprehensive community colleges in Massachusetts, MCC has been a proven leader in education for more than 50 years. Middlesex puts the student first. Meeting each learner where they are, MCC provides them with a safe, welcoming and engaging place to learn. Offering more than 80 degree and certificate programs – plus hundreds of noncredit courses – Middlesex features flexible course formats and a variety of award-winning student support services and resources. Student success starts at MCC!
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MCC Offered Recent Alumna the Opportunity to Continue Her Education8/29/20249/24/2024 12:43 PM
​Prachi Dayal, of Acton, dropped out of high school at 16-years-old. After earning her GED, she started looking into options to continue her education. In May 2024, Dayal graduated from Middlesex Community College with highest honors and an associate degree in paralegal studies.

“MCC gave me a jumpstart on my college education,” Dayal said. “I found an accessible education at a low cost that offered a major that perfectly aligned with my goals. Because of MCC, I was able to intern at the courthouse and work at ACE (MCC’s Academic Centers for Enrichment), which helped me grow my network and gain more job opportunities.”

Dayal chose to pursue paralegal studies because of her interest in fixing the legal systems in both India and America. Classmates and professors such as Virginia Drislane offered support to help her succeed. After meeting her through ACE, Drislane inspired Dayal to apply to four-year schools.

Studying different areas of the law prepared Dayal for her internship. At the Lowell Juvenile Court, she read and watched cases, processed people as they went in and out of court, and completed administrative duties. She also had the opportunity to handle a variety of types of cases found at juvenile court, including delinquencies, care and protections, and child requiring assistance cases.

“I developed my network and met many court employees and attorneys who inspired me,” Dayal said. “I learned that the Lowell Juvenile Court is truly rehabilitative and the judges, court officers, clerks and personnel that work there are genuinely compassionate people.”

As an MCC tutor and Blackboard Ambassador for ACE, Dayal formed connections around the college. While MCC learning specialists helped her find opportunities, she assisted other students in progressing in class. Calling the position “rewarding,” Dayal believes the experience showed how committed MCC staff were to her success.

At the college’s 2024 Evening of Excellence awards, Dayal received the Deborah Walsh Paralegal Studies Award for her academic achievement and service to MCC through activities and leadership experiences. Named a speaker at the ceremony, Dayal spoke about her journey to getting her education.

“My speech reflected on a letter I wrote to my future self in sixth grade,” she said. “It was so healing to write and read out loud. Being nominated and then selected instilled so much confidence, and I am so grateful to the people who nominated me and helped me get there.”

After graduating from MCC with her associate degree in paralegal studies in May 2024, Dayal plans to transfer to UMass Amherst to pursue her bachelor’s in sociology. One day, she hopes to go to law school.

“I have met so many great people who encouraged me to open up about my background,” she said. “I was able to access so many networking and job opportunities with extremely supportive professors and students, and a variety of classes that prepared me for jobs.”
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Grant Funding Aids MCC’s Development of New Nursing Simulation and Laboratory Spaces9/4/20249/23/2024 9:19 AM
​Middlesex Community College is excited to announce the development of new simulation and laboratory spaces for students in the nursing associate degree and licensed practical nursing (LPN) programs. Funded by a Nursing Expansion Grant and Massachusetts Skills Capital Grant totaling $975,000, the renovation will allow the college to train up to 120 students annually.

“MCC’s nursing program is one of the most effective in the state, providing well-prepared, knowledgeable and experienced nurses to address the needs of a vital and in-demand workforce,” said Karen Townsend, MCC’s Dean of Health. “With a 100 percent NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) pass rate in recent years, clinical partnerships at local hospitals, and dedicated faculty, our students access opportunities in and outside of the classroom that pave a rich pathway for their entrance into the field. We are so grateful for this grant funding that will enhance our simulation and lab spaces, as well as strengthen the support, resources and curriculum we offer our students.”

Middlesex received a $525,000 Nursing Expansion Grant to develop an LPN program for students looking for faster entrance into the profession. Students complete their LPN, start working in the field, and can continue their studies at MCC to earn an associate degree or transfer to a four-year institution.

While graduates of the LPN program have the opportunity to work in the field and transfer their credits to the MCC’s compatible associate degree program, the workforce benefits from highly skilled and efficient nurses. The combination of the program options and the renovated simulation and lab spaces enhances students’ preparation and competency in patient care, according to Susan Lavallee, MCC’s Director of Nurse Education.

“The establishment of the LPN program, simulation and lab spaces addresses the growing employment gaps in healthcare brought on by the pandemic and other factors,” Lavallee said. “These initiatives ensure our students are exposed to diverse case scenarios; allow them to develop their knowledge, skills and attitudes for high-level critical thinking and clinical judgement; and build students’ confidence with the ability to make critical decisions in a safe, simulated environment before entering clinical sites and the workforce.”

A $450,000 Massachusetts Skills Capital Grant is helping the college afford the costs of building the nursing simulation and lab spaces. The renovation will allow MCC’s nursing programs to collaborate on curriculum, simulation and equipment use. Training opportunities will be available to students in both nursing programs, MCC’s other health programs, as well as community employer partners.

Later this Fall, the college will be developing opportunities for the community to five to enhance the spaces beyond the physical construction of the lab. Funding will go toward manikins, high-fidelity simulators, Sim Pad Plus, hospital equipment for sim bays, complete nurses’ command stations, and nursing skills laboratory stations.

“Funding is crucial to ensuring our new shared simulation and laboratory spaces are built to the highest standards, providing the best possible environment for our students to learn and thrive,” said Sherri McCormack, MCC’s Dean of College Advancement. “Any donations will bring us closer to creating a state-of-the-art facility, help train the next generation of nurses, and ensure that our community continues to receive the highest standard of care from compassionate, dedicated professionals.”
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Register Now for MCC’s Accelerated Mini-mester II9/9/20249/19/2024 11:00 AM
​Middlesex Community College will offer a second opportunity to register for the Fall 2024 semester on Monday, October 28. Mini-mester II is an accelerated, eight-week semester allowing students to start their education on their terms, fit more classes into their schedules, and finish their program faster.

“Understanding how valuable our students’ time is, we help them optimize their schedules as much as possible to make education a priority,” said Arlene Rodríguez, MCC’s Provost and Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs. “Our Mini-mesters are a quick and efficient way to provide the knowledge, skills and training our students need to earn credit to transfer to four-year institutions, advance in their careers, and set themselves up for stable and fulfilling futures.”

MCC’s Mini-mesters provide the same content, academic standards and number of instructional hours as courses scheduled in the traditional 15-week semester. With the mid-semester start, students do not need to wait until the next semester to begin their studies.

Through a mix of on-campus, online, hybrid and hyflex classes, students can complete general education requirements and explore a variety of subjects. This includes over 80 degree, certificate and industry credential programs in the arts and humanities, business, education, health, social science, public service and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields.

All MCC students gain access to award-winning student support services and resources to help them succeed from day one, including tutoring, advising and financial aid assistance. Students enrolled in Mini-mester II may also qualify for financial aid, including MassEducate and MassReconnect.

While starting at a community college already saves students money on tuition costs, students can also earn more credits per semester by enrolling in the eight-week sessions. This often leads to them finishing their education and reaching their goals in less time.

No matter your age or income, community college is now free in Massachusetts! The MassEducate and MassReconnect programs allow at Massachusetts residents who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree to attend MCC for free.

Students can visit MCC’s Bedford and Lowell campus for financial aid assistance from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Middlesex also partners with two organizations to help students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The organization uAspire matches students with an advisor who will respond within 24 hours to answer questions or meet on Zoom. The Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) is available to set up a free, one-on-one virtual FAFSA completion session for MCC students.

“MCC’s Mini-mesters are high-reward, low-risk opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds to jumpstart their lives,” Rodríguez said. “Get on track to your new degree and career and register today.”

This Fall, students can register for the traditional 15-week semester or two accelerated eight-week Mini-mesters. While Mini-mester I begins September 3, MCC’s Mini-mester II starts on Monday, October 28. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434 for more information and to register.
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MCC Hires New Dean of Liberal Arts9/5/20249/18/2024 12:10 PM
​Middlesex Community College is excited to announce Dr. Matt Hurwitz as the new Dean of Liberal Arts. Most recently, he was the Faculty Director of the River Hawk Scholars Academy and Associate Teaching Professor in English at UMass Lowell (UML). After learning more about Middlesex and its focus on student success, Hurwitz wanted to play a role in the “magic” happening at MCC.

“I hope to take the strengths I’ve developed in my previous work to further help people learn and get excited about the liberal arts, as well as build upon the traditions and leadership in the division,” Hurwitz said. “I look forward to supporting our students, chairs and program coordinators, and faculty to strengthen the coursework, programs of study, and the opportunities MCC offers.”

Understanding MCC’s mission of equity and access, one of Hurwitz’s goals is to expand on equitable outcomes for the liberal arts programs. In addition to fostering a sense of belonging for students, he will focus his attention on those who have historically been under-served, while looking at processes to address performance gaps.

As he begins in his new role, Hurwitz also wants to work on increasing retention, experiential learning experiences, and service-learning opportunities in and outside of the classroom. He hopes to help students bridge the gap between their time at MCC and what comes next, design clear pathways for transfer, provide more real-life application of classroom learning, and keep students on track to graduate on time.

“I come into this role thinking about making sure we are educating and supporting all our students, and that means serving humans and their complex diversity,” he said. “Through talking to people, I’ll build relationships across the college and make myself as available as possible to hear their voices and understand as many perspectives as possible.”

Growing up with a passion for reading and writing, Hurwitz has also always been interested in helping others. From the University of New Hampshire, Hurwitz earned a bachelor’s in English Teaching, a master’s in Teaching, and a Ph.D. in English. He also pursued a master’s in Literature from Arizona State.

When he first started teaching at UML, Hurwitz worked with first-year students in writing courses. For students who needed extra time, he designed course sequences to address their challenges. For a service-learning project, Hurwitz developed and implemented a program to have students work with Lowell public schools.

Moving into his role with UML’s River Hawk Scholars Academy, Hurwitz assisted incoming students who might struggle to adjust to college-life, build their networks, and gain academic skills. He also had the opportunity to work with first generation students to guide them on their paths to success.

“I loved communicating the vision of the program, getting faculty and staff on board, and finding resources for the program while staying student-focused,” Hurwitz said. “UML was my first foray into the wider college areas to pull people together toward a bigger outcome than what was happening in my classroom.”

As he was looking for what to do next, MCC’s Dean of Liberal Arts position offered what he called “the perfect nexus” for his interests and training.

“Ultimately, the kind of impact I want to make is helping students have life-changing educational experiences,” he said. “At MCC, students can open up more opportunities for themselves, such as finding a new job, advancing in their careers, getting the promotion they deserve, and moving onto a four-year institution.”
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MCC’s Biotechnology Program Receives Pathmaker Validation from Mass Life Sciences Center8/27/20249/17/2024 12:27 PM
On Tuesday, August 13, Middlesex Community College’s biotechnology program received a Pathmaker Validation from the Mass Life Sciences Center (MLSC). Representatives from MLSC joined Middlesex President Phil Sisson, Provost Arlene Rodríguez, and biotechnology faculty to visit the lab and award a plaque of recognition for the success and effectiveness of MCC’s program.

“We are thrilled to receive the Pathmaker Validation from Mass Life Sciences Center and are proud to display our plaque of recognition in our state-of-the-art biotechnology lab,” President Sisson said. “This honor from MLSC proves that our combination of interactive lab experiences, comprehensive curriculum, and ample networking opportunities offer robust and life-changing programs that lend to the stability and success of our students, the biotechnology industry, and the Massachusetts workforce. Our partnership with MLSC will help us continue to provide a diverse population of students with skills and training to enter and advance in their careers in an in-demand and much needed field.”

“The Pathmaker program provides career seekers from all backgrounds with the proper training needed to enter the exciting world of life sciences,” said MLSC Acting CEO and Vice President of Economic Development and Partnerships Jeanne LeClair. “This effort wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration of our training program partners, including Middlesex Community College, who contribute to developing a substantial workforce to meet the needs of the ever-growing Massachusetts life sciences industry.”

The MLSC Pathmaker program funds industry-aligned training programs that address critical skills and talent supply gaps and connects skilled, diverse workers with life science career opportunities in Massachusetts. Additionally, one of the goals of Pathmaker is to serve as a stamp of approval on specific training programs that meet the most up-to-date industry criteria, thereby sending a strong signal to prospective career seekers.

Pathmaker validation ensures that programs up to and including associate degrees receive a stamp of approval, affirming their alignment with industry standards and Pathmaker Core Competencies. This helps ensure top-tier quality in biomanufacturing education and industry readiness.

Both MCC’s biotechnology associate degree and certificate program were recognized as Pathmaker programs. The college’s programs are taught by experts who have worked in the biotechnology field, and include lab experiences and conditions that are similar to those found in a work environment.

Middlesex also offers an award-winning Biotechnology Learn and Earn program to provide students with the opportunity to work full-time for a partner company while earning a degree.

“We are excited to be a Pathmaker-recognized program and to partner with MLSC to continue to help strengthen the biotechnology field,” said Dr. Marie Tupaj, MCC’s Dean of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). “The Massachusetts biotechnology industry is comprised of many of MCC’s current and former students who are leaders of their field and are eager to give back to the college community. Students come to MCC at different stages of their lives and discover opportunities that get them into the workforce as soon as possible, prepare them to further their education, and help them pursue dream careers.”

MCC’s Fall 2024 semester begins Tuesday, September 3. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration for more information on MCC’s biotechnology program and to register for classes.
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Get Set up for Success with MCC’s Workshop Series9/3/20249/16/2024 11:57 AM
​This Fall, Middlesex Community College is hosting the Snacking with Success workshop series to help students navigate college. Run by the SUCCESS Scholars Program, the events provide tips and tools for classes, time management and planning, career preparedness, and getting involved on campus.

“Unlock your potential for success through these workshops,” said Farrorza Lim, MCC’s SUCCESS Scholars Coach. “Students will learn to juggle multiple tips and tools on how to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Along with engaging discussion topics and delicious snacks, students will be equipped with the knowledge and experiences needed to advance their academic journey.”

Throughout the semester, the eight-workshop series will feature themed events, including Muffin Mondays, Tea-Talk Tuesdays, Wings Wednesdays, and Coffee Chat Thursdays. All events will take place from noon to 1 p.m. in the Lower Café in MCC’s Cowan Center in Lowell.

During Muffin Mondays, students will learn how to set and follow goals for the week. Topics include understanding the class syllabus, Blackboard, assignment prompts, and online classes. The events will take place on October 7 and November 4.

Tea-Talk Tuesdays present an opportunity for students to connect with their classmates and check on their academic progress. Events will offer discussion on time management, academic planning, class organization, vision boards, and staying on track. The events will be held on September 24 and December 3.

Held on October 2 and November 27, Wing Wednesdays provide tips for students’ next steps beyond Middlesex. Students will share their career aspirations and learn to build their resumes, give an elector pitch, as well as transfer, register and more.

Coffee Chat Thursdays include discussions on networking while at MCC. The events will help students get involved in on-campus clubs and affinity groups, as well as build relationships, make connections, and better communicate with peers and professors. The events are on September 19 and November 14.

MCC’s SUCCESS Scholars Program supports Asian American, Black, African American, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ students with academic advising, career preparedness, accessing resources and student support services throughout the college, and learning how to be a successful college student.

The workshops are designed for SUCCESS eligible students, but are open to all MCC students. For more information, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/successscholars/
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MCC Alumna & Professor Named New Director of Nurse Education8/22/20249/12/2024 10:53 AM
​Middlesex Community College has hired Lowell native and alumna Susan Lavallee as the new Senior Director of Nursing Education. A professor of the program, Lavallee is excited to now serve as a leader where her own nursing journey began. She hopes to oversee the expansion of the nursing program, support students, and assist the talented and dedicated nursing faculty in providing high-quality nursing education.

“My goal is to enhance student retention and success, foster workforce development, boost community engagement, partner with community agencies, diversify our faculty, and establish our program as a top-tier community college nursing program.” Lavallee said. “Witnessing a student's transformation from fear to confidence is truly unparalleled. Guiding students to discover their potential and pursue a rewarding nursing career is an incredibly gratifying experience.”

Working as a full-time nursing assistant at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Lowell, Lavallee enrolled at MCC part-time to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. After graduating in 1988, she worked as an emergency nurse, earned a master’s in nursing education from Rivier University, and became a board-certified nurse educator.

Lavallee has worked in a variety of roles in the nursing field, including as a staff registered nurse (RN), charge RN, clinical leader, preceptor, and has taught both trauma and pediatric emergency nursing. She also contributed to the Greater Lowell Critical Incident Stress Management team to help first responders during a crisis.

In 2008, Lavallee became the Coordinator of Outpatient Services and then Director of Emergency Services at Saints Medical Center, now Lowell General Hospital. At the same time, she was the Beacon Chapter President for the Emergency Nurses Association. After 23 years of emergency nursing, her desire to make a difference led her to nursing education and to MCC, stating it was the “best career decision I ever made.”

“My experience as an emergency nurse has afforded me the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of many individuals,” she said. “As an MCC alumna – and having personally experienced the mission of creating opportunities for success by overcoming obstacles – I aimed to help others achieve their aspirations. I understood the high standard of education MCC’s nursing program offered, and that the nursing faculty was comprised of talented and enthusiastic individuals who stand out within their field and who are dedicated to student success.”

At MCC, Lavallee teaches theoretical knowledge and practical skills. She emphasizes the importance of applying what students learn in the classroom into the clinical setting and in MCC’s simulation lab. Debuting in the Fall 2024 semester, the fully renovated simulation lab will feature cutting-edge technology and a 26-bed lab space.

“Simulation is a contemporary educational strategy that engages learners in realistic scenarios that trigger various senses simultaneously,” Lavallee said. “This approach enables faculty to replicate clinical situations in environments closely mirroring real-life conditions, providing a secure space for practice. Students in nursing programs incorporating simulation techniques enhance their critical thinking, decrease errors in actual clinical settings, and significantly boost their clinical decision-making abilities.”

Calling the opportunity an “honor and a privilege,” Lavallee’s vision for the department mirrors MCC’s mission.

“I am extremely thankful for the chance to contribute to both MCC and my profession in this manner,” she said. “Community colleges are a crucial service organization within the community, offering opportunities for success that might not otherwise be available.”
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Register Now for MCC’s Fall 2024 Semester 8/26/20249/11/2024 10:14 AM
The Fall 2024 semester is fast approaching at Middlesex Community College. At Middlesex, students can jumpstart their futures and take advantage of flexible and affordable options starting Tuesday, September 3.

“This Fall at MCC, we are prepared to help students of all ages and backgrounds reach their goals,” said Kayla Caron, MCC’s Registrar and Interim Dean of Enrollment. “Middlesex makes getting an education possible for many who have the goal of education but would not otherwise have the opportunity or the means. Our over 80 programs and award-winning student support services help students cultivate a vision, start new careers, transfer to four-year institutions, and upgrade their skills.”

MCC helps students fit education into their busy schedules by offering on-campus, online, hybrid and hyflex courses. Students can also choose to take classes as part of the traditional 15-week semester or over two accelerated eight-week Mini-mester sessions.

At Middlesex, Mini-mesters provide the same content, academic standards, and number of instructional hours as courses scheduled during the traditional 15-week semester. Accelerated sessions allow students to finish credits faster, take classes over a shorter period of time, and balance their studies with other responsibilities.

The college’s Office of Admissions is hosting campus tours in Bedford and Lowell throughout the summer. Prospective students and their families can also watch a virtual tour to learn more about the college offers, including academic programs, student support services, and resources for success.

MCC’s academic advisors are also available to help students register for classes and get assistance with career and transfer planning. Students can make on-campus and online appointments Monday through Thursday, as well as take advantage of drop-in hours on-campus on Wednesdays and online on Fridays.

Students can visit MCC’s Bedford and Lowell campus for financial aid assistance from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Middlesex also partners with two organizations to help students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The organization uAspire matches students with an advisor who will respond within 24 hours to answer questions or meet on Zoom. The Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) is available to set up a free, one-on-one virtual FAFSA completion session for MCC students.

Eligible MassEducate and MassReconnect students can also register for Fall classes. The programs allow all Massachusetts residents who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree to attend MCC for free with no tuition or fees and an allowance for books and supplies for certain students.

“With the summer winding down, now is the time to explore our options and learn how we can help you pursue your dream of earning an education,” Caron said. “Everyone at MCC is here to support you and give you the tool you need to succeed. As soon as you register, we’re ready to go through the process with you step-by-step and prepare you for Fall!”

While MCC’s Fall Mini-mester I begins the same day as the traditional semester, Mini-mester II starts Monday, October 28. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ for more information and to register for classes.
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Advance Your Career with MCC’s Community Ed.8/21/20249/10/2024 12:19 PM
​Middlesex Community College’s professional development opportunities help students of all ages jumpstart or advance in their careers. Run by the college’s Community Education and Training (CET) division, the variety of courses and certificates provide the knowledge and skills employees need to succeed in today’s workforce.

“At MCC, our programs are designed in collaboration with industry partners to identify their needs and ensure our students gain marketable skills that will help them be hired and thrive in in-demand jobs across the state,” said Caitlin Campopiano, MCC’s Director of Workforce Programs & Professional Education. “Whether offered online or on-campus in Bedford or Lowell, many of our programs feature hands-on and interactive learning opportunities and are taught by professionals who are experts in their field.”

Fall programs focus on subjects in healthcare, information technology (IT), computer applications, business, management and communications. MCC’s healthcare courses prepare students to sit for certification exams and enter the workforce in entry level roles with hands-on practice and training. Courses in the Fall semester include phlebotomy, dental office administration, medical interpreting, local anesthesia, digital radiology, periodontal instrumentation, and certified nurse assistant.

Students looking to update their IT and computer application skills can engage in a suite of classes to be prepared to start entry level jobs in these fields. Fall classes include Google IT/Comp TIA A+ and cloud associate, business computer applications, Microsoft Excel, and Google workspace applications and Google sheets.

For students looking to grow into a management role, Middlesex courses highlight knowledge of key concepts that are adaptable for students to work in management in a wide range of industries. MCC’s Fall 2024 offerings include the award-winning SHRM Essentials of Human Resources class, as well as a management certificate with courses on workplace communication, understanding motivation, speaking with confidence, performance management, and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

Middlesex will also offer courses for employees to enter careers in entry-level business and communications fields. Courses include accounting/bookkeeping, technical writing, and nonprofit management and grant writing. Personal enrichment courses will also be offered in subject such as floral and interior design, cooking, art, hobbies and languages.

“Continuing education is one of the best things a person can do for their professional development and personal enrichment,” Campopiano said. “We have an exciting line-up ahead for the Fall that offers flexible, affordable and relevant options ready to meet your needs.”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/careertraining/ for more information and to register for Fall classes.
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Public Comments Invited as Part of MCC Accreditation Process8/15/20249/9/2024 2:06 PM
​Middlesex Community College will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit on October 7 and October 8 by a team representing the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

NECHE is one of seven accrediting commissions in the United States that provide institutional accreditation on a regional basis. Accreditation is voluntary and applies to the institution as a whole. The Commission – which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education – accredits approximately 220 institutions in the six-state New England region as well as several American-style institutions overseas.

“The NECHE Self-Study process allows Middlesex to analyze and respond to how we can best serve the needs of our diverse population of students, which in turn, helps us strengthen our commitment to our mission of equity and access,” said Phil Sisson, MCC’s President. “I want to thank NECHE for helping us make improvements and expand on the excellent work we do here at the college. Thank you also to our community for your dedication to student success and making Middlesex a fantastic place to learn, teach and support our students.”

The public is invited to submit comments regarding MCC to:

Public Comment on Middlesex Community College

New England Commission of Higher Education

301 Edgewater Place, Suite 210

Wakefield, MA 01880

Email: info@neche.org

Public Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution. The Commission cannot settle disputes between individuals and institutions, whether those involve faculty, students, administrators, or members of other groups. Comments will not be treated as confidential and must include the name, address, and telephone number of the person providing comments.

Public Comments must be received by October 8, 2024. The Commission cannot guarantee that comments received after that date will be considered.

Discover your path at Middlesex Community College. As one of the largest, most comprehensive community colleges in Massachusetts, MCC has been a proven leader in education for more than 50 years. Middlesex puts the student first. Meeting each learner where they are, MCC provides them with a safe, welcoming and engaging place to learn. Offering more than 80 degree and certificate programs – plus hundreds of noncredit courses – Middlesex features flexible course formats and a variety of award-winning student support services and resources. Student success starts at MCC! Visit www.middlesex.edu for more information.
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MCC Partners To Offer Advanced Manufacturing Program Through Pathmaker Initiative8/28/20249/5/2024 10:19 AM
Through funding by the Mass Life Sciences Center (MLSC) Pathmaker Initiative – and in collaboration with Insulet and MassHire Lowell Career Center – Middlesex Community College will expand its Advanced Manufacturing with Robotics and Automation offerings. The training opportunity prepares Massachusetts job seekers for careers in the life sciences industry.

“The program was one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had the privilege to be a part of,” said Juan Aguilar, a graduate of a previous Advanced Manufacturing program from Burlington. “I feel more prepared than ever to steer my career in a better direction and create a work environment that I can be proud to be a part of. The tremendous wealth of knowledge and experience from the diverse cohort I was in changed my life.”

Over the course of eight weeks, students will receive 120 hours of in-person learning and 30 hours of remote learning with ToolingU. The learning sessions will discuss industry-related topics, such as programmable logic controller, industrial robot programming, electromechanical devices, regulatory bodies and working in a clean room environment.

“The proposed training content was developed with help from our partner company Insulet and consists of several modules designed to teach workforce relevant skills,” said Katy Gentile, MCC’s Assistant Director of Corporate Education and Training. “Each module covers critical technical, mechanical and soft skills that are in high demand and necessary for success in the life sciences field.”

To assist students with their career goals, the program provides them with professional development tools and opportunities. In addition to training, students can also take advantage of career counseling services, resume review, interview preparation and support services.

After completing the program, graduates will receive their Certified Manufacturing Associate Credentials through ToolingU and OSHA-10 certification. In addition, they can interview for positions at Insulet, visit a local advanced manufacturing facility, and network with hiring managers and past students.

“Modern manufacturing companies require broad skillsets as they develop smart processes that use more automation and robotics and emerging technologies,” said John Henshaw, a Pathmaker program instructor. “Each of these areas represents opportunities for employees to learn and grow new skillsets that can advance their careers and are transferable to other industries. All components require human intervention and support and thus represent opportunities for career growth.”

MCC’s award from MLSC will fund training for 30 individuals with three cohorts until Spring 2025. The Fall 2024 session will run on MCC’s Bedford Campus from September 16 to November 7. Each session takes place from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.

Visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/workforcetraining/pathmaker.aspx for more information and email gentilek@middlesex.edu to submit an application.
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MCC to Kick Off “World of Music” with Lowell Chamber Orchestra8/19/20249/4/2024 11:21 AM
Middlesex Community College is excited to kick off the Fall 2024 “A World of Music” concert series with a performance by the Lowell Chamber Orchestra (LCO). Conducted by MCC Music faculty member Orlando Cela, the concert will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, September 8 at MCC’s Richard and Nancy Donahue Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell.

“We are delighted to be opening the season with the LCO and our MCC faculty member Orlando Cela who will present a program illustrating music for reflection,” said Carmen Rodríguez-Peralta, MCC’s Chair of Music. “Our Fall 2024 ‘World of Music’ concert series will feature a variety of events, including orchestral music, faculty performances, a lecture recital, a silent film with music, and our end of semester student recital.”

The LCO concert will feature works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Cory Brodack, Erich Wolfgang Korngold, and the world premiere of “La Balena” by Betsy Schramm will be performed.

“It is pure joy to be serving as concertmaster in LCO, assisting our conductor's musical visions come to reality and experiencing the tremendous dedication from all colleagues involved,” said Katharina Radlberger, Concertmaster of the LCO and soloist in the Mozart violin concerto. “It is rare to have a small ensemble with this quality of musicianship and sense of togetherness at the same time. Being able to play the Mozart violin concerto at the beginning of Season 6 is a great honor, and I am looking forward to sharing this divine music with my colleagues and the audience.”

The LCO will perform a second time at the Academic Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23. The Phantom of the Opera with Live Music will also be held in Lowell at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 17

“A World of Music” will also hold performances at MCC’s Concert Hall on the Bedford Campus, including Duos and Trios Featuring Cello, Piano and Flute at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 6; Afro-Brazilian Music with Marcus Santos at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22, co-sponsored by MCC’s Commonwealth Honors Program; and a Student Recital at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, December 2.

All concerts are free and open to the public.

MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/worldofmusic/ for more information.
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MCC and MCPHS Partner On New Pathway8/20/20249/3/2024 12:22 PM
On Monday, August 12, Middlesex Community College and Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) held a ceremony on MCC’s Lowell Campus. MCC President Phil Sisson and MCPHS Chief Enrollment Officer Eric Thompson signed an articulation agreement to create a pathway for Middlesex students to more easily transfer to MCPHS.

“We are thrilled to partner with MCPHS to provide a clear and accessible transfer process for our students,” President Sisson said. “At MCC, we help a diverse population of students earn an affordable education, complete general education requirements, gain hands-on learning opportunities, and find a sense of belonging early on in their college experiences. This partnership with MCPHS offers a distinct transfer and career pathway to ensure our students continue on and thrive at four-year schools and in their careers to reach long-term success.”

“There is a real synergy and alignment of institutional priorities and goals between MCC and MCPHS and this experience has been an engaging opportunity,” Thompson said during his welcome address at the event. “We understand the importance of the articulation agreement for the region and state’s workforce development in the health and sciences. Through the agreement with Middlesex, we are glad to see students following the tradition of becoming leaders on our campus and graduating.”

This agreement with MCPHS will provide MCC students with a pathway into biology programs at MCPHS. Both institutions are committed to student success, hands-on learning, and providing paid internships and learning experiences for students, according to Russell Olwell, MCC’s Dean of Education & K-16 Partnerships.

“MCPHS is known for its programs in health careers – particularly in pharmacy – and has many opportunities for our students at both the bachelor's and professional school levels,” Olwell said. “Many MCC students have expressed interest in attending MCPHS, which has campuses in Boston, Worcester and Manchester.”

MCC is a starting point for many students who would not otherwise have the opportunity to go to school and earn their education. At Middlesex, students complete their general education requirements that will then transfer to MCPHS for credit toward a bachelor’s degree. MCPHS has also promised significant resources to help our students afford college and transition to the four-year school.

“We are excited about this agreement and how it provides a pathway for our students,” said Arlene Rodríguez, Provost & Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs during her speech at the event. “The alignment of credits and the admissions process will make the transfer smoother. MCPHS is a dream school for many of our students and we are thankful for the arrangement.”
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MCC to Host ‘One Week to Go’ Events Ahead of Fall 2024 Semester8/12/20248/29/2024 9:32 AM
Middlesex Community College is excited to welcome students back to campus for the start of the Fall 2024 semester, beginning Tuesday, September 3. To help prepare new and returning students, Middlesex will host One Week to Go events on both campuses from Monday, August 26 to Thursday, August 29.

“One Week to Go is the perfect time to get ready for the semester while connecting with staff and classmates on campus in either Bedford, Lowell or both,” said Maria McDuffie Clark, MCC’s Director for Student Engagement for Equity. “You can finish and get assistance with any of the steps you need to take before the start of classes, while familiarizing yourself with all MCC has to offer.”

The events will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday in the Lowell Cowan Center and Bedford Enrollment Center. A social outing will take place on August 30. Students can attend open office hours for areas across the college, including Admissions, Enrollment, Financial Aid, Academic Advising, and more.

The week will also provide opportunities to tour both campuses, visit the bookstores and other importance spaces around campus, get the required MCC ID, register for classes, and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

To celebrate the upcoming semester, the college will provide food, games and prizes for participants. The event is one of the ways the college promotes equity and access, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with peers, engaging with the community, and fostering a supportive environment.

One Week to Go is co-hosted by MCC’s Offices of Student Engagement, International and Multicultural Affairs, and the SUCCESS Scholars Program.

“MCC offers many resources, support services and activities all semester long,” McDuffie Clark said. “Set yourself up for success early on by joining us the week before classes start!”

This Fall, students can choose to register for the traditional 15-week semester or two accelerated eight-week Mini-mesters. While Mini-mester I begins September 3, MCC’s Mini-mester II starts on Monday, October 28. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434 for more information and to register.
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MCC Names Diamond Tin 2024-2025 Student Trustee8/14/20248/28/2024 3:08 PM
Diamond Tin, from Cambodia and now living in Lowell, has been named to the Middlesex Community College Board of Trustees for the 2024-2025 academic year as Student Trustee. In his role, the business entrepreneurship student wants to use his passion for advocacy and leadership to be a powerful voice for his classmates.

“It feels incredibly rewarding and exciting to be named Student Trustee as it’s a unique opportunity to represent fellow students and have a direct impact on important decisions that affect our school community,” Tin said. “I’m honored to have been chosen for this responsibility and am eager to contribute positively and work collaboratively with administration to implement effective changes that benefit students and shape their educational journeys.”

Tin’s goals as Student Trustee align with the mission of the college, which is to provide access to equitable opportunities to all students. He hopes to offer more mental health and academic support, improve communication between students and the community, and listen to his peers’ when making decision.

In Spring 2024, Tin was awarded a scholarship from the Cummings Foundation to help him launch his business idea. The scholarship is part of a $100,000 grant the Foundation gave to Middlesex in 2021. Grant funding supports students, such as Tin, who are completing MCC’s entrepreneurship certificate or associate degree and have a business idea they want to launch in the future.

“Receiving the Cummings Scholarship means so much, not just for myself, but also for my family, as it helps lower the cost of school tuition, as well as my living expenses,” Tin said. “My business pitch for this scholarship was about an Escape Room project that I'm currently working on with my cousin to be open in Cambodia.”

Inspiration to become a business owner comes from his parents and grandparents, who he calls his role models and motivation. Tin is also grateful to Stacie Hargis, MCC’s Entrepreneurship Program Coordinator, for her support in his entrepreneurship classes.

In pushing him to work outside of his comfort zone, Hargis motivates Tin by reminding him of his passion for business and pursuing a career he loves. Now entering his third semester at MCC, he feels excited about going to class every day, engaging in discussions, and helping his classmates.

MCC has been a “welcoming space” for Tin since he started, leading him to be less nervous about exploring his new area and happy to try different experiences. This includes participating in activities and events around the college community. A peer mentor for MCC’s Success Scholars Program, Tin is the Vice President for the International Student Club and a member of the Asian Students in Alliance (A.S.I.A.) Club.

“I strive for the best, not just academically, but also to be involved in school activities as much as possible where I can gain a lot of experience along the way that is good for my resume as well,” Tin said. “I define myself as an outgoing person, but also diverse, which leads me to participate in so many clubs to get to know a variety of new things and make so many friends throughout my life.”

Looking ahead to after he graduates from Middlesex, he has many different business ideas for the future and is focused on his education. Planning to transfer to a four-year school to earn his bachelor’s degree, he hopes to one day earn a master’s in business from Harvard Business school and “achieve this wonderful dream of mine.”

“I’m always brainstorming about my business ideas and opening them in the United States,” he said. “I would like to work in a company to strengthen my ability as an entrepreneur and gather experience as I go onward in life."
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MCC Offers Orientation Leader Training Ahead of Fall Semester8/13/20248/27/2024 11:25 AM
To get ready for the Fall 2024 semester, Middlesex Community College hosted orientation leader (OL) trainings on Monday, July 15 and Tuesday, July 16 on the Lowell and Bedford campuses. OLs are MCC students or recent alumni who interact with incoming students and guide them in the beginning stages of their academic journeys.

“I highly recommend that students attend orientation,” said Hency Patel, an MCC Business Management student from Lowell. “The Orientation Leaders are detailed with their explanations and answered every question I had. I also enjoyed meeting a diverse set of people and making new friends. Everyone in the MCC community is kind.”

OLs are a valuable resource for incoming students. They are available to assist with questions or to provide tips on navigating the college experience. Tasks include giving campus tours and teaching students how to use the MCC portal and mobile application.

“The Orientation Leaders showed me how to use Blackboard and discussed the online resources Middlesex offers,” said Alicia Wheeler, an MCC Communications student from Lowell. “They were friendly and helped me get to know the college better. After the introduction, I felt very welcomed.”

Run by MCC’s Office for Student Engagement, the training helped orientation leaders build their confidence and review classroom management and problem-solving abilities, as well as learn how to facilitate group discussions.

“Our orientation leaders come from many different backgrounds,” said Linda Thiem, MCC’s Coordinator of Student Engagement and Multicultural Programming. “Many of our incoming students may relate to them. The connections they make with our orientation leaders, their instructor, or other resources can shape a student’s college journey.”

Before Natalie Ray participated in orientation, the idea of college made her nervous. An MCC Chemistry Transfer student from Tyngsborough, Ray found a mentor in an OL. In addition to learning about resources at Middlesex, this connection encouraged her to feel confident and be active in the MCC community.

“Students are more likely to succeed in college with a support system,” Ray said. “It is harder to progress by yourself. By coming to the orientation, students will build a strong foundation of people that want to see them succeed.”

Through MCC’s Orientation Plus, new students engage in activities to help connect them to campus resources, faculty and staff, and other students. This helps them become familiar and comfortable with the college environment. They also complete coursework and an online self-paced orientation module.

“MCC’s Orientation Plus made me more familiar with the school’s resources,” said Steven Ssepuya, an MCC Cybersecurity graduate from Lowell. “Navigating college became easier and made the transition to college smoother. Once I saw how a past orientation leader made the position look fun, I wanted to get involved.”

The First Year Experience (FYE) is also part of the Orientation Plus experience. These one-credit courses assist students with their study and time management skills. To lead students towards success, they will also learn about professional behaviors and habits and how to get involved with co-curricular activities.

“Orientation Plus is designed to help students be successful in their first year of college,” said Noreen McGinness Olson, MCC’s Assistant Dean of Student Success. “By providing a supportive, nurturing environment complete with engagement programming, peer support, and educational guidance, students can achieve all of their academic and personal goals.”
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MCC’s Student Access Specialist Provides Support & Services to College Community8/8/20248/26/2024 11:01 AM
​In the summer of 2023, Middlesex Community College hired Molly Hayes as the full-time Student Access Specialist for the college’s rebranded Office of Student Access and Support Services (SASS). In her role, she supports and provides services to eligible students with permanent or temporary disabilities. She came to Middlesex to pursue her goal of working with a diverse population of students in and outside of the classroom.

“The students that are enrolled at MCC are here because they want to succeed,” Hayes said. “I am truly passionate about being able to build trusting relationships and provide support for students of diverse backgrounds, ages, learning profiles, and more. This work has not only been essential to their experience, but for me and my personal fulfillment. MCC students, faculty, staff and community as a whole have been so welcoming.”

A first-generation college student, Hayes graduated from Emmanuel College with a bachelor’s in psychology and minor in education. She completed a master’s in education, school counseling at Merrimack College, where she realized her passion for working in higher education as a career advisor for the college’s O’Brien Center for Career Development while earning her degree.

While receiving her education, Hayes worked in support services at public, private and specialized K-12 schools and programs throughout Massachusetts. At the community college level, she helps students develop and use their knowledge and skills in different environments in the classroom, at work, and within their lives.

“We create a climate of inclusiveness for various learning profiles and abilities,” Hayes said. “Doing so has been a key aspect of success for students. Students deserve to feel welcomed, heard and understood. There are such a wide range of needs, and I appreciate that I am able to support those needs in whatever way that means.”

As MCC’s Student Access Specialist, Hayes is a resource for students, the college and greater community. She works one-on-one with eligible students to understand and explore their goals, hone their self-awareness, and grow self-advocacy and communication skills, among other resources.

“I am committed to providing a judgement free space to encourage students to understand their abilities, strengths and opportunities for growth,” Hayes said. “By promoting access to instruction, the college campuses, and community-wide activities, students are empowered to discover and pursue a path to a fulfilling life so they can make their own unique marks on the world.”

This fall, Hayes will be the club advisor for the new student NeuroSpicy Club. The goal is to promote inclusivity and understanding for neurodivergent students on campus through club meetings, activities and events.

“Our hope is to build a community that supports individuals who may have different ways of learning, communicating, and perceiving their environment,” she said. “Through this common interest, we hope students can learn from one another, respect each other, and create awareness on campus.”

In her year at Middlesex, Hayes has made the college experience – and beyond – more accessible for her students.

“Working at MCC has been nothing short of amazing this past year,” she said. “I chose to work here because I share the fundamental and communal values of MCC, including the goal to provide access to quality education for a diverse population of students and to support student success for lifelong learning.”
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MCC Staff Are Getting Students Ready for Fall8/6/20248/22/2024 9:08 AM
Middlesex Community College is getting prospective and current students ready for the Fall 2024 semester. With classes starting on Tuesday, September 3, staff across the college are offering on-campus and online assistance for everything from registering for classes to getting help with financial aid.

“Whether you’re new to MCC or a returning student, we’re here and available to assist you this summer,” said Scott O’Neil, MCC’s Dean of Enrollment Services. “There are a lot of steps you need to take to go through the process of attending college. Getting ready now means less stress when the semester starts, which helps you focus on your academics and get on track to reach your goals.”

Students who register ahead of the Fall semester can take full advantage of MCC’s Orientation Plus. This includes an online orientation and a First Year Experience (FYE) one-credit course offered in August. In addition to earning a college credit and exploring a field of interest, students will get to know the college, campus and community during FYE.

Students also get to meet classmates, faculty and staff before their first official day. There are a variety of FYE sessions designed to meet the needs of specific student populations, including students with a disability, LGBTQIA+ students, first generation students, and students of color.

The college’s Office of Admissions is hosting campus tours in Bedford and Lowell throughout the summer. Prospective students and their families can also watch a virtual tour to learn more about the college offers, including academic programs, student support services, and resources for success.

MCC’s academic advisors are also available to help students register for classes and get assistance with career and transfer planning. Students can make on-campus and online appointments Monday through Thursday, as well as take advantage of drop-in hours on-campus on Wednesdays and online on Fridays.

Students can visit MCC’s Bedford and Lowell campus for financial aid assistance from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Middlesex also partners with two organizations to help students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The organization uAspire matches students with an advisor who will respond within 24 hours to answer questions or meet on Zoom. The Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) is available to set up a free, one-on-one virtual FAFSA completion session for MCC students.

Eligible MassEducate and MassReconnect students can also register for Fall classes. The programs allow all Massachusetts residents who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree to attend MCC for free with no tuition or fees and an allowance for books and supplies for certain students.

“We’re dedicated to guiding our students to success from day one, and that starts with the application process and completing the FAFSA, going all the way through to graduation,” O’Neil said. “We’re excited to get students ready for the semester and see them this Fall!”

This Fall, students can register for the traditional 15-week semester or two accelerated eight-week Mini-mesters. While Mini-mester I begins September 3, MCC’s Mini-mester II starts on Monday, October 28. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434 for more information and to register.
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High School Students Get an Early Start to College at MCC With CAD Course8/1/20248/21/2024 10:52 AM
​During the summer, Middlesex Community College offered an Engineering/Computer Aided Design (CAD) course through their College for Teens program. Students explored the engineering field and gained experience in a potential future academic or career interest.

“I enrolled because I wanted to learn how to use SOLIDWORKS, since I had only done CAD using Onshape before,” said D. Danson, an MCC College for Teens student from Lowell. “I learned how to navigate SOLIDWORKS, create and fully define sketches, build various 3D objects out of those sketches, and make keyboard shortcuts. MCC’s course gave me experience with a more widely used CAD program.”

The College for Teens Engineering/CAD course offered high school students an opportunity to become familiar with the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) field. MCC Engineering Professor Angel Escalona taught the course in six sessions on MCC’s Bedford Campus from June 3 to June 12.

“These kinds of courses contain short sessions and topics related to engineering,” Escalona said. “Companies are desperate for people with knowledge on 3D modeling. The course exposes students to a high-demand industry that is looking for people with the knowledge and skills they will learn.”

During the course, students learned and experimented with tools and software programs such as 3D printers, hands-on print circuit board layout, and SOLIDWORKS. In addition, they gained skills and values that will assist them in pursuing work in engineering through lectures and interactive exercises.

“The students were able to learn fast,” Escalona said. “They were good at understanding the content and learned the software without much issue which made the teaching process easier. It was interesting to see how focused they were on the topics.”

To finish the course, students were given a final assessment. Once they successful completed the program, they received one credit for IDS135 – STEM Career Exploration at MCC.

“Companies are desperate for people with knowledge on 3D modeling,” he said. “They are expecting engineers to know the software. This gives people familiar with it an advantage compared to those who are not.”

Run by MCC’s Community Education and Training (CET) division, College for Teens helps high school students build skills, values, and life goals that boost their confidence. As they learn and engage with their peers, they create positive habits and find their personal strengths. The program offers courses in different areas of study on-campus and online.

“MCC’s College for Teens program guides high school students through their academic and professional journey,” said Audrey Nahabedian, MCC’s Dean of Workforce Education. “With the learning opportunities offered, students can jumpstart their college experience and discover several career paths at an affordable cost.”

Classes in fall 2024 include Medical Laboratory Tech Career Exploration, The Art of Presentation: Speaking with Confidence, Algebra l Review, and Algebra ll Review. For more information, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/collegeforkids/cfteens.aspx
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MCC ’24 Graduate Transferring to BU School of Law 7/31/20248/20/2024 10:38 AM
​Graduating from Middlesex Community College’s paralegal studies program in the summer of 2024, 49-year-old Emma Ding plans to start the LLM program at Boston University’s School of Law this fall. From China and now living in Weston, Ding credits Middlesex for helping her have the time and confidence to apply to law school.

“It’s unexpected for me to fulfill my law school goals so early,” Ding said. “I’ve discovered that what I should do is put forth effort in tasks, even when I lack confidence or clear directions for the future. This process not only guides me to the next step, but also boosts my confidence and courage to keep going.”

Ding started at MCC in January 2023 with plans to take English Language Learner (ELL) classes at the college. Realizing her English language skills were strong, an employee taking Ding on a tour of the college encouraged her to enroll in college-level classes. Though she was undecided with what to study, academic advisor Nick Cloutier helped her narrow down her career path.

Cloutier talked to Ding about her background working in law in China. This led her to MCC’s paralegal studies program where she benefitted from guidance from professors such as Halye Sugarman and internship instructor Patricia Lemire. She struggled in the beginning, believing she took longer than classmates to complete assignments and felt nervous sharing her thoughts in class. MCC employees motivated her to keep going.

“I began to find my footing when I enrolled in law courses,” Ding said. “Throughout my educational journey, the encouragement and the assistance I received was crucial. Without it, I might not have taken the steps forward, as I often doubted my readiness.”

At her internship with the Lowell Court Service Center, Ding learned how to process requests and help staff. With assistance from faculty at MCC, she started feeling more comfortable completing tasks. Her goal was to improve on her weaknesses and gain understanding of court operations and law related to everyday life. Her accomplishments were praised by a supervisor as she learned to handle many cases independently.

“The internship has been the most fulfilling experience since moving to the states,” she said. “It not only allows me to provide valuable legal assistance, but also deepens my connection within the community – a connection I had not felt before.”

Ding’s confidence continued to grow as she took more classes for her major. Taking Introduction to Law and Legal Research and Writing with Professor Sugarman, Ding developed her knowledge and skills through comments on her assignments. Sugarman’s guidance made her feel as though she was prepared for the demands of a law school program rather than a typical four-year degree.

Cloutier helped Ding build her schedule to finish her associate degree in a year and a half. This included taking classes over the summer and winter break. With help from academic advising, she knew which classes to choose and how to best arrange her schedule.

The one-on-one attention and support Ding received made a difference in her time at MCC. Though she struggled at times in her coursework and confidence, employees made sure to keep her on track to reach her goals and inspired her to apply to law school.

“It’s meaningful in life to tackle challenges, even small ones,” she said. “Regardless of the outcome, the journey through these challenges is intrinsically valuable to me.”
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MCC Hosts Graduation for Students Residing at ICC7/30/20248/19/2024 11:05 AM
Starting in Spring 2024, Middlesex Community College partnered with MassHire Lowell Career Center to develop trainings for 17 students from Haiti currently residing in the Lowell Inn and Conference Center (ICC). After completing sessions in Home Health Aide (HHA) and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Middlesex hosted a graduation ceremony on Friday, July 19 to celebrate the students’ accomplishments.

“Education is the key to success,” said Berline Coimin, student speaker at the graduation. “With a lot of effort and determination, I took the HHA class and the English class. It was a life experience because communicating in English is the key that will open the door for us in this country. According to my experience, I realized that no one can move forward without the push of others. We need each other for everything in our life, and this wonderful team gave us this push.”

In the program, students completed six weeks of MCC’s ESOL and 80 hours of HHA training, as well as a written and hands-on HHA exam. Instructors from each program worked together to make sure the training was individualized to track students’ advancement in their English and HHA skills.

“We are grateful to MassHire for bringing the idea of this program to us and for their support throughout, as well as to MCC’s Corporate and Community Education and Training division for working on this labor of love,” said Phil Sisson, MCC’s President. “To the graduates, keep going and congratulations on all your accomplishments. We are very proud of you, and I expect that one day I will shake your hand as you earn an associate degree or certificate at our commencement ceremony. This is just the beginning of your time at MCC.”

MassHire Lowell helped identify eligible students to go through the program. Upon completion, students are now able to apply for jobs or continue their healthcare education with MCC.

“The ESOL/HHA program for the emergency shelter residents is another great example of a successful collaboration between MassHire and MCC,” said Nancy Gagnon, MassHire Career Center Manager. “By addressing some of the most glaring barriers the immigrants face, this program allows these individuals to find employment and start their career in our community. We are proud of the commitment demonstrated by the staff of MassHire and MCC in serving the new arrivals to Lowell.”

MassHire also hired a Creole interpreter Myrlande “Mimi” Emanuel to work with instructors to help students go through the program. Emanuel catered the graduation, making traditional Haitian food for the attendees.

“It was a very nice experience to get to help the students,” Emanuel said. “At the beginning, it was challenging, but seeing the way the students were able to understand everything that was said without my help interpreting was very rewarding.”

Taught by MCC instructor Charles Zhang, the ESOL classes focused on listening, reading, speaking and writing in English. These skills help students learn how to share and describe personal information, numbers, locations, tasks and routines, people, feelings and emotions, making appointments, basic questions, and more.

“We need to do a better job in tapping into the talents and brilliance of our immigrant population,” Zhang said. “The HHA/ESOL program is a ground-breaking project pioneered by MassHire and MCC to train a group of newcomers in Massachusetts to be employment ready in this high demand field in just a few months. Trainees get to develop their healthcare skills while acquiring English and familiarizing themselves with the American culture. I hope this program can be modularized throughout the New England area and beyond.”

In the HHA classes, the students learned healthcare skills, such as patient care, safety and rights; tracking vital signs, record keeping and stress management; and lifting and turning patients. Instructor Debra Shaw was impressed by the students’ commitment to completing both trainings at the same time.

“As a group, they demonstrated a strong work ethic along with a caring and compassionate manner,” Shaw said. “Many were juggling work, childcare and school as well as trying to navigate this new culture and language. They all persevered! These are the very skills that will lead to success in their future healthcare career."
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There’s Still Time to Register for MCC’s College for Kids Summer Programs7/29/20248/15/2024 2:06 PM
​College for Kids is off to a strong start this summer at Middlesex Community College. Running through Thursday, August 8, College for Kids offers children ages 8 to 17 hands-on, interactive and engaging classes in the arts and STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). This includes an annual aviation course taught by a professional pilot.

“Doing the four-day aviation camp was able to give me a little bit of an inside look at how and what it means to be a pilot,” said Henry D., of North Andover, a College for Kids Student. “The instructor John – who is a pilot for Cape Air – is able to put the things he is saying into words everyone can understand! John was also able to bring another pilot from Cape Air to talk to us. This was a sure 10/10 experience and can't wait to do it again next year!

Remaining classes this summer include a dance bootcamp, DIY crafts, fashion design and jewelry, film production and editing, game design, cakes and cupcakes, and Lego Mindstorms Robotics and Battlebots.

Run by the Community Education and Training team, programs are taught by public school teachers and expert professionals on MCC’s Bedford and Lowell campuses. Students learn new skills, meet new friends, boost self-confidence, and explore future careers.

Featuring five weeks of full- and half-day programs, Monday through Thursday, full-day programs run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and half-day programs run 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Students who take two half-day programs to make a full day can stay on campus for lunch in between the two sessions.

“College for Kids offers fun, interactive and educational experiences for young students over the summer,” said Ellen Wright, MCC’s Assistant Director of Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development. “The variety of our programs allow kids to explore the arts and sciences, visit a college campus, and enjoy subjects they may not have the chance to do during the school year. We are thrilled by the success of this summer and look forward to ending the year with a line-up of exciting classes.”

For more information, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/collegeforkids/ or email CollegeForKids@middlesex.edu and call 781-280-3663.
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Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Middlesex Community College Announce New Pathway8/7/20248/14/2024 12:21 PM
​At a ceremony held on Friday, August 2 at Middlesex Community College’s Lowell Campus, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) President Grace Wang and Middlesex Community College (MCC) President Phil Sisson signed an articulation agreement to provide a clear pathway for MCC students to transfer to WPI. This initiative is central to both schools’ mission to address the evolving educational, cultural, economic and workforce needs of the local and global communities.

“MCC is thrilled to partner with WPI to make the path of transfer to the four-year institution easier for our students,” President Sisson said. “In addition to saving money and gaining hands-on experiences early on in their college experience at Middlesex, our students have resources and support available to ensure they are on the right track to reach their goals. This articulation agreement is an example of how MCC provides accessible and equitable opportunities for our diverse population of students, setting them up for success well beyond their time at the college.”

“WPI and MCC are integral parts of the Massachusetts higher education landscape. A transfer program strengthens the relationship between our institutions, fostering regional academic collaboration and development. Moreover, graduates from this program will be well-prepared to contribute to the local economy, particularly in STEM fields that are vital to our region’s growth,” said WPI President Grace Wang. “This initiative holds immense promise for both institutions and, most importantly, for the students who will benefit from it.”

Under the new articulation agreement, MCC students with an associate degree who have successfully completed a college-level precalculus or calculus 1 course, a college-level laboratory science course, and have earned a 3.3 or higher GPA, will be guaranteed admission to WPI. MCC students who have not yet completed their associate degree but have a minimum 3.0 GPA and have successfully completed a college-level precalculus or calculus 1 course and successfully completed a college-level laboratory science course may be offered admission in order to transfer to a bachelor's degree program at WPI.

Upon admission, students will be supported through transfer student programs and opportunities at WPI, including a designated advisor in the Academic Advising Office and a staff liaison in the Office of Undergraduate Studies.

MCC transfer students will also have immediate access to WPI’s Heebner Career Development Center and summer research opportunities. In addition, admitted students will be required to take a semester-long transfer transition program and receive a summer undergraduate course tuition waiver for one course taken in each of two summers, during their enrollment at WPI. Additional opportunities are available for qualified students to pursue graduate programming upon enrollment at WPI.

Information about WPI admissions and application requirements for transfer students as well as transfer agreements can be found at www.wpi.edu/+transfer. Visit www.middlesex.edu for more information on MCC.
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MCC Student Finds Belonging and a New Career Path7/25/20248/13/2024 11:40 AM
After moving from Morocco to Lowell, Wafaa Kalai joined Middlesex Community College in late 2023 as a public health student. While transitioning to the United States and figuring out what to study, she worked as a residential counselor which influenced her interest in healthcare. Her goal is to use the opportunities and education she gains from MCC to make a positive impact on people’s lives.

“When I decided to go back to school and discussed it with my family, MCC was the first place they recommended,” Kalai said. “My colleagues also shared their positive experiences with the college, which encouraged me even more to enroll. So far, I love my experience at MCC.”

In Morocco, she earned a bachelor’s degree in economics and business management in 2014, as well as a master’s degree in supply chain management in 2016. For several years, she managed a gas supply chain in the oil and petroleum industry before going back to school.

As a residential counselor, Kalai worked with people in the mental health field. Hearing their stories motivated her to learn about healthcare and help patients more. Going back to school allowed her to begin a new career with the help of MCC’s resources.

“MCC has given me the chance to learn, evolve and join a big community where I can embrace my goals,” Kalai said. “Everyone has a place in the college, and through that, I have met people from my own country and peers with similar ideas and goals.”

In Kalai’s first year at MCC, she began working at the Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE) after Psychology Professor Jennifer Pisarik recommended her. Through Pisarik’s advice, support and encouragement, Kalai feels more confident in her abilities. Her work at the Center improved her time management skills as she continued to meet with students.

“I appreciate being a part of ACE,” she said. “I enjoy helping students and feeling like I can make someone's learning journey a little better. For me, MCC represents a school of life. The college has its own way of helping you learn about yourself and believe in your dreams.”

During her first semester, Kalai struggled with writing essays. As she learned more English and connected with professors at MCC, she overcame her academic challenges, improved her writing skills, and enjoyed studying psychology more.

Now Kalai helps other students through their own struggles as a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) Tutor and Blackboard Ambassador. She also assists with welcoming and guiding students at the Center on MCC’s Lowell Campus.

Being involved in the MCC community helped Kalai feel more comfortable at the college, including building relationships with students and receiving guidance from MCC employees. In addition to ACE, she used the college’s campus libraries, learning how to prepare for tests and focus better on her homework.

Employees such as Director of ACE Christine Bell, Academic Advisor Julian Johnson, and Program Coordinator for Public Health Informatics and Technology Kori Preble Boeckeler were supportive in Kalai’s journey. Their responsiveness and assistance made her college experience more rewarding.

“The professors and staff at MCC are amazing,” she said. “You can feel how much they genuinely care about our success and journeys and see that they are invested in helping us. Based on my experience at MCC, I learned there are no obstacles when it comes to growing in this country.”
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MCC’s Student Access and Support Services is Dedicated to Student Success7/24/20248/12/2024 10:21 AM
​As part of the college’s dedication to providing equitable and accessible educational experiences for all students, Middlesex Community College offers employees professional development and networking opportunities. Jaimie March, MCC’s Director of Student Access and Support Services (SASS), attended the Association for Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) Conference – Equity & Excellence: Access in Higher Education in Baltimore.

“Conference attendance ensures that we can best serve our students by learning about policies, practices, and tools in the field, allowing for collaboration across many different colleges from around the country, and some international. As a professional, attendance at a conference of like-minded people is invigorating! It is the best way to know what is going on in the field and to hear and interact with experts in many different areas that directly impact how we support students and the college.”

During the conference, March participated in sessions on Legal Year in Review, Reducing Student Barriers Under the Social Model; Trauma-informed Practices for Disability Service Office; Symplicty Accommodate, the accommodation requests system; Optical Character Recognition (OCR); notetaking; flexibility accommodations; supporting disability and inclusion; barriers to access and equity in higher education; and staying true to our why.

By attending the AHEAD conference, March honed her knowledge and skills to provide Middlesex students and employees with the most up-to-date resources and information related to equity and access.

“The conference – including Drag BINGO – was an opportunity to celebrate disability and connect about what students are doing on campuses across the country to raise their voices and be fully present as their whole self,” March said. “I'm excited to come back to MCC and continue to partner with everyone at the college on all that is being done and needs to be done to continue to truly see our community.”

The 47th annual AHEAD Conference took place from Monday, July 15 to Friday, July 19 in the middle of Disability Pride Month. The recognition celebrates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in July 1990. In acknowledging the month, MCC emphasizes the college’s commitment to access and inclusion for all, including through offerings by the SASS office.

“The best thing about Disability Pride is the celebration of disability as an identity,” March said. “Often disability is viewed from the deficit lens, which often dismisses or overlooks all the strengths, innovations, uniqueness and tenacity people bring. Disability Pride month celebrates disability as a valuable form of diversity.”

MCC’s Office of SASS helps students with documented disabilities go through the process to receive appropriate accommodations they have a legal and civil right to access, according to March. Through check-ins and one-on-one meetings, the team develops students’ self-advocacy, time management and organization skills. They also review syllabi and course expectations, assist in selecting classes based on learning need and schedule balance, and connect students with internal and external resources.

“We are a resource to students, faculty and staff, available to problem-solve, answer questions, provide information, and more,” March said. “The SASS team is ready to hear from the MCC community with any questions or comments.”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/disabilityservices/ for more information.
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Metallica Scholars Initiative Workforce Education Program Now in All 50 States7/23/20248/8/2024 10:44 AM
San Rafael, Calif. – All Within My Hands (AWMH), the non-profit, philanthropic organization created by the members and management of Metallica, is incredibly proud to announce the largest expansion of its Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) and its largest grant to date. With the launch of year six, 18 new colleges join the roster of existing MSI community colleges, with each new college receiving $75,000 to enhance the student experience within career and technical education programs. The Metallica Scholars Initiative now has a presence in 60 colleges across all 50 United States and the territory of Guam.

“When we launched the Metallica Scholars Initiative, it really spoke to me. A collective goal of breaking the stigma of trade skills. Trade skills are vital to society, and what’s even more important is to support the many folks who are trying to create a career by learning and using these skills. I am so proud - we all are - to see how this program is changing lives by providing much-needed resources to empower students, and it’s great that we’re able to make our biggest grant yet to support these students and the future workforce. We are reaching even further for year six of the Metallica Scholars Initiative. This year, our program will be in 60 schools in all 50 states! All thanks to your support.” -James ‘Papa Het’ Hetfield

Since first receiving the grant funding in 2022, MCC’s Corporate Education and Training division works with MassHire Lowell Career Center to identify students who are low-income, underemployed or unemployed. Students in the program receive holistic training in an electronics course, working hands-on with software and materials they will use in the advanced manufacturing field. They also gain access to career advising, professional development, student support services, and a hand soldering certificate.

“Thank you to the Metallica Scholars Initiative for the support and funding to continue to be part of this prestigious cohort of community colleges across the country supported by the band Metallica,” said Phil Sisson, MCC’s President. “We are thrilled to be in our third year of the training program, having successfully provided eligible students with the skills and knowledge they need to start entry-level jobs in the manufacturing field for the past two years. Our Corporate Education and Training team works with community partners to offer a population of students who need the support most to jumpstart their careers, gain hands-on experience, and get hired into stable, well-paying positions.”

Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), MSI began with 10 colleges and primarily manufacturing programs. With steady development by creative and dedicated leadership, MSI offers diverse workforce opportunities for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to find meaningful and well-paying careers. Additional curricula will include construction, healthcare, and engineering, contributing to more than 25 fields of study offered within the Initiative. To date, AWMH has invested over $10.5M in the American workforce, reaffirming a commitment to career and technical education at the local level.

“I am happy to congratulate the newest Metallica Scholarship Initiative colleges. The sustained investment in workforce education by the All Within My Hands Foundation has benefitted thousands of community college students,” said Walter G. Bumphus, president and CEO of AACC. “This work helps to advance skills education and the nation’s workforce pipeline. We are honored to continue this partnership to provide critical resources that eliminate barriers for students to participate in skills education programs that lead to family-sustaining wage careers.”

By the end of year six, we estimate that we will have helped more than 8,000 students with a wide range of backgrounds and ages gain skills to assist in finding meaningful jobs and careers. Metallica Scholars are often considered non-traditional students, as many have families they support or are the first in their families to pursue a college education. AWMH and AACC aim to connect students to skill-building opportunities and bridge the talent needs of the American workforce, all while utilizing the community college system, which is the most affordable, flexible, and industry-relevant applied-learning training provider in the country.

“Metallica, through their foundation, is changing how people view and engage with the trades in this country, and it is working,” stated Peter Delgrosso, Executive Director of All Within My Hands. “Metallica Scholars are diverse, motivated, and ambitious, and we are here to help them reach their goals. I am so proud and honored to be able to announce entrance into all 50 states as this is a significant milestone for not only our foundation but the incredible community we have helped foster and connect.”

We would like to thank our long-time sponsors and partners – Carhartt and Wolverine – our advisory board members, and to the Metallica Family who have supported AWMH and helped to continue growing this Initiative.

Newly Added Metallica Scholar Colleges:

• Arkansas Northeastern College - Blytheville, Ark.

• Bismarck State College - Bismarck, N.D.

• College of Southern Nevada - Las Vegas, Nev.

• College of Western Idaho - Nampa, Ind.

• Community College of Allegheny County - Pittsburgh, Pa.

• Community College of Rhode Island - Montpelier, Vt.

• Community College of Vermont - Warwick, R.I.

• Community College System of New Hampshire - Concord, N.H.

• CT State Asnuntuck - Enfield, Conn.

• Delaware Technical Community College - Dover, Del.

• Eastern Maine Community College - Bangor, Maine

• Flathead Valley Community College - Kalispell, Mont.

• Guam Community College - Barrigada, Guam

• Honolulu Community College - Honolulu, Hawaii

• Ivy Tech Fort Wayne/Warsaw Campus - Fort Wayne, Ind.

• Tulsa Community College - Tulsa, Okla.

• University of Alaska-Anchorage - Anchorage, Alaska

• *West Georgia Technical College - Waco, Ga.

*Pending AACC Membership

For a complete list of all 60 colleges currently supported by AWMH, visit allwithinmyhands.org/metallica-scholars.

About All Within My Hands

All Within My Hands (AWMH) is a non-profit, philanthropic organization conceived by the members and management of Metallica and dedicated to creating sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services. 100% of donations go directly to local organizations that the Foundation supports. To date, All Within My Hands’ collective efforts have raised over $15M— providing $8.2M in grants to career and technical education programs, over $3.6M to combat food insecurity, and more than $3.5M to disaster relief efforts. To learn more about All Within My Hands, Visit AllWithinMyHands.org and follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

About AACC

As the voice of the nation’s community colleges, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), delivers educational and economic opportunity for more than 10 million diverse students in search of the American Dream. Uniquely dedicated to access and success for all students, AACC’s member colleges provide an on-ramp to degree attainment, skilled careers, and family-supporting wages. Located in Washington, D.C., AACC advocates for these not-for-profit, public-serving institutions to ensure they have the resources and support they need to deliver on the mission of increasing economic mobility for all. For more information, visit https://www.aacc.nche.edu/.

About MCC

Discover your path at Middlesex Community College. As one of the largest, most comprehensive community colleges in Massachusetts, MCC has been a proven leader in education for more than 50 years. Middlesex puts the student first. Meeting each learner where they are, MCC provides them with a safe, welcoming and engaging place to learn. Offering more than 80 degree and certificate programs – plus hundreds of noncredit courses – Middlesex features flexible course formats and a variety of award-winning student support services and resources. Student success starts at MCC! Visit www.middlesex.edu for more information.
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MCC Set to Host Third Annual Lowell Asian American Film Festival This October7/22/20248/7/2024 1:35 PM
​This October, Middlesex Community College is excited to host the third annual Lowell Asian American Film Festival (LAAFF). Held at the college’s Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center, the event will take place from Friday, October 18 through Saturday, October 19.

“MCC is excited to host the third annual Lowell Asian American Film Festival,” said Virak Uy, MCC’s Director, Program for Asian American Student Advancement. “We are grateful to the City of Lowell for their support in helping to fund the film festival. The mission of LAAFF is to inspire future generations of Asian American, Pacific Islanders (AAPI) filmmakers, increase access, and dismantle barriers, as well as bring together a collection of films to the public that elevate and highlight the rich stories of Asian American experiences."

Over two days, MCC will screen Asian American-directed films from across the country in celebration of art, culture and diversity. LAAFF films feature the Asian American experience with a film director, animator or screenwriter identifying as Asian American.

This year’s event is sponsored by Middlesex and funded in part by a grant from the City of Lowell American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) the college received last year. The weekend will kick off with a screening of the opening film “HOME COURT,” as well as a film workshop for students.

Middlesex is accepting submissions on FilmFreeway through August 30 for four categories, including Narrative Short Film, Documentary Short Film, Animated Short Film, and Student Short Film. Awards will be offered in three categories for Best Feature Film, Best Animated Film, and Best Local Film. Winners will receive between $100 to $250, as well as a festival laurel.

MCC has connections with many Asian American community organizations and cultural institutions across Greater Lowell, according to Uy. Hosting the film festival is a way for the college to deepen these relationships and strengthen its commitment to the communities it serves.

“We are looking forward to going through the selections to highlight an incredible line-up of thought-provoking films and talented filmmakers,” Uy said. “We hope that people from across the country will be able to join us for an amazing cultural and cinematic experience!”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/laaff or email laaff@middlesex.edu for more information about this year’s event, including rules and terms for submitting.
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MCC’s ‘First Year Experience’ Sets Up Students for Success from Day One7/17/20248/6/2024 2:41 PM
Middlesex Community College is getting ready for the Fall 2024 semester. This August, the college will offer a variety of First Year Experience (FYE) sessions as part of Orientation Plus to set up new students for success from day one.

“Orientation Plus provides students with the resources they need to find success at MCC,” said Deborah Botker, MCC’s Department Chair of Social Sciences and Coordinator of the FYE. “Faculty and staff support students as they gain the necessary skills to complete their degrees. Students who enroll in Orientation Plus have higher grade point averages and are more likely to complete their degrees. Orientation Plus ensures that students start on their collegiate journey with the essential strategies to pursue their goals.”

FYE sessions provide new students with information to make their transition to the college easier. Students earn one credit toward their degree for participating, while being introduced to valuable skills and resources that will help them do well in classes. To register for an FYE session, students must first complete the mandatory online orientation.

Attending an FYE session allows students to meet advisors, faculty and staff who will assist them throughout their academic journey. They will also have the chance to meet with classmates, make connections, and feel more comfortable engaging in on-campus activities and events throughout their time at MCC.

“I love teaching the FYE course because it’s an opportunity to acclimate our newest students right as they come through the door,” said Jill Keller, MCC’s Chair of English. “The exploratory, friendly nature of this curriculum produces a nice cohort experience for the students and judging from their comments and written reflections, they tend to enjoy and benefit from it much more than they initially expected.”

This summer, MCC is offering FYE sessions designed to meet the needs of specific student populations. Sessions include support for students who have a documented disability or completed the accommodation process with the Office of Student Access and Support Services; TRIO supported or First Generation to college students; veteran and adult learners; and students who self-identify as Black/African America and Latinx, LGBTQ+, or Asian American.

“Our Orientation Plus is a way to help students understand all that Middlesex offers them early on in their academic journey,” said Noreen McGinness Olson, MCC’s Assistant Dean of Student Success. “Our FYE sessions in particular allow students to earn a college credit, build relationships with MCC students and employees, and better understand their path to their next steps.”

Orientation helps new students get used to the college, campuses, community and resources available to them at Middlesex. The orientation can be completed at the student’s own pace from a phone, tablet or computer. The experience teaches them about academic expectations, how to get involved, navigating the campuses, and feeling confident about finding student support services.

MCC’s Fall 2024 semester begins on Tuesday, September 3. Choose from 80+ degree, certificate and industry credential programs. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-2424 for more information.
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MCC Adds More Micro-credentials Ahead of the Fall 2024 Semester7/15/20248/1/2024 9:52 AM
At Middlesex Community College, micro-credentials are helping students – such as Lauren Ruffing, of Woburn ­–complete their education and enter the workforce faster. Micro-credentials teach specific knowledge for students to earn focused, in-demand career qualifications in some of the fastest growing industries.

“Earning my micro-credential was such a rewarding feeling,” Ruffing said. “It felt really good to see my hard work pay off, and I immediately knew that I wanted to share my achievement on LinkedIn!”

In May 2024, Ruffing graduated from Middlesex with highest honors with both a micro-credential and associate degree in communications. During her time at the college, she was on the Dean’s List, was a member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society, and held a social media and marketing internship.

Supportive staff and a motivating campus environment helped Ruffing navigate her experience with ease. Starting at the community college offered her the chance to return to college and prove herself after moving from South Carolina. MCC “has been such an important stepping-stone for me in my journey to success,” she said.

For the Fall 2024 semester, MCC will offer four new micro-credentials, including 21st Century Marketing Essentials, Social Media Content Creation & Marketing, Web Design & Coding, and Computer Science Artificial Intelligence. The three to four course bundles run for eight weeks and can be completed in one semester.

Taught by college professors and industry experts, the focus of each course is designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the field. Upon successful completion of a micro-credential, students earn a digital badge to promote their new skillset and advance their careers.

The goal of MCC’s micro-credentials is to help students proceed quickly into the field while meeting the needs of the local workforce and industry partners. Students pay less money overall with no fee to apply or register.

As each micro-credential course is college-level, students earn transferable credit to apply toward an MCC associate degree or certificate, or to most colleges and universities in Massachusetts and nationwide.

Other micro-credentials include classes in the business, communications and visual design, health, and public service pathways. Options focus on culinary skills, restaurant supervisor, entrepreneurship, media studies, media writing, communication skills, public health informatics & technology, law enforcement, private security and social justice advocacy.

“Accelerated, stackable multi-course bundles help students learn and build upon their skills in a specific field,” said Lisa Gibson, MCC’s Associate Registrar. “Micro-credentials are cost-effective, quick and flexible, designed in consultation with our community partners to ensure that the skills taught are what employers are seeking. This leads to quicker job placement and advancement for many of our students in fields that are actively hiring.”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/micro/ for more information or to register for the Fall 2024 semester, starting on Tuesday, September 3!​
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MCC Alumna Leaving Her Mark on Hollywood as Makeup Artist7/18/20247/31/2024 9:54 AM
From Tyngsboro, Middlesex Community College alumna Madeleine Sword has always had a passion for makeup. Although she was warned she would not succeed, she moved to Los Angeles in 2022 to pursue her makeup career in the entertainment industry. Thus far, her work has been featured on billboards in Times Square, red carpets for the Oscars and Emmys, and on various films and television shows.

“I used to dream about all of these things,” Sword said. “Some of them were just as sweet as I imagined they would be, some of them were not as glamorous as one may think. The road to where I am now was not easy, but that’s kind of part of being an artist. I do it because it’s my passion. The best parts of my work are getting to meet amazing people, having incredibly unique experiences, and helping people feel good about themselves.”

Since moving to LA, Sword has expanded on her eight years of experience in the field. Some of her recent credits include working as the Key Makeup Artist on a Lifetime film and as the Makeup Department Head for a film coming out soon on a major streaming platform. She has also gotten to see her name roll on the credits for a movie – a moment that brought her to tears.

In addition to an associate degree in business administration from MCC, Sword earned a bachelor’s in marketing and management at UMass Lowell and a license to understand the science of skin at an esthetics school. The variety of classes Middlesex offered helped her develop skills for her career, including accounting, finance and marketing.

“It definitely served me well for when I decided to run my own business as a freelance makeup artist,” she said. “[At MCC,] I was a full-time student, and I liked the flexibility of being able to create a schedule that would allow me to work when I wasn’t in school. It also put my mind at ease that there is a program with UML that allowed all my credits to seamlessly transfer over.”

Sword also benefitted from taking elective courses at MCC that made her more well-rounded and prepared for her career. Art history and forensic science courses allowed her to enjoy interests outside of her current profession, while a film and television course taught her about camera angles, lighting, and continuity for the first time.

At Middlesex, professors, such as Dr. Jennifer Bauer, MCC’s Chair of Communication, Art and Design, helped shape her academic path. Sword also believes she saved thousands of dollars in loans by attending the community college, while still getting a quality education. These teachings – as well as the environment MCC provided – combined to make her overall experience at the college “great.”

“The student body was very diverse and brought people of all different backgrounds and stages of life together, which I really enjoyed,” she said. “I couldn’t be more content with my choice to go to MCC.”

Whether in her academic career or throughout her professional journey, Sword has worked hard to find success. She has done makeup for photoshoots and fashion shows, as well as special events that were big moments in her clients’ lives. One moment in particular that stands out is helping a young girl on the day of her graduation.

“The happiness and confidence that radiated within her made a lasting impression on me,” Sword said. “From then on, I understood what my passion and skills could do for other people. You can accomplish anything you set your mind to."
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Opportunities at MCC Help Student Launch New Career7/11/20247/30/2024 12:21 PM
​From Pakistan and now living in Woburn, Anisha Aneesha earned a degree in business administration from Malaysia before moving to the U.S. Looking to combine her business and marketing background with a more creative field, she came to Middlesex Community College to pursue fashion merchandising.

“My experience has been nothing short of amazing,” Aneesha said. “The best parts have been the creativity, support from teachers, and a beautiful community that you find along the way.”

MCC Professor and Coordinator of Fashion Merchandising Ashli Ree has motivated Aneesha to tap into her creative side more. In addition to her classes on color theory, design theory, and the history of fashion, Ree recommended a ceramics course which Aneesha enjoyed.

All of these options have given her a better sense of what she will be doing at her future job. Helping “me in this journey,” she said.

Wanting to get involved on-campus, Aneesha works as an orientation leader and student employee for the Office of Student Engagement (OSE). In her role, she assists MCC clubs in being financially independent and filling out forms for budgets and event requests.

“Working as an OSE student employee is the best decision I made because it gave me a purpose to be involved on campus and interact with so many students,” she said. “This helps me get more familiar with the environment and sort of healed the initial anxiety of being the new kid on campus.”

Aneesha credits MCC’s Coordinator of Student Engagement & Multicultural Programming Linda Thiem as the person who has supported her most at Middlesex. As her mentor, Thiem has pushed her to do her best, continue with her studies, and given her the opportunity to work with OSE.

A member of the Art Club and International Club, Aneehsa hopes to get an internship within fashion merchandising for the fall 2024 semester. She is also grateful MCC has offered her networking opportunities outside of classes and the campus environment, including when she attended the Board of Trustees annual dinner.

“Opportunities such as this are huge,” she said. “Students are able to connect and speak to influential people who can motivate you in your college journey.”

Although she was nervous starting out as an adult student, Aneesha was drawn to Middlesex because of the college’s smaller class sizes. She grew comfortable once she found professors who are dedicated to focusing on education and staff members who helped her access opportunities to succeed.

After she graduates from MCC, Aneesha hopes to get a job related to fashion. With the foundational knowledge she learned at Middlesex, she plans to continue working hard and being true to herself as she moves forward.

“It’s your hard work and determination that leads you to success,” Aneesha said. “The best thing about MCC is that it gives you all the rules you need to do it.”
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MCC Expands Partnership with Merrimack Reparatory Theatre7/9/20247/29/2024 10:36 AM
When Karen Oster, Middlesex Community College’s Chair of Performing Arts, was looking to expand her successful theatre arts program, she turned to the Merrimack Repertory Theatre (MRT) – a community partner “just down the road.” Sharing a mission of equity and access, the organizations are working on a variety of collaborations, including the sold-out MRT Summer Stage for Youth.

“It has always been our mission to provide a fun and exciting environment for kids to explore theatre arts, and while we encourage creative growth, we promote teamwork and a true ‘company” mentality,’” Oster said. “We set a high standard for quality in the productions. We believe children of all ages are capable of magnificent things, and there are no limits to their creativity in the theatre arts. The partnership with MRT means we can go further with this wonderful legacy that has served families for years.”

“We are so proud to partner with MCC, Karen and the team to create lasting memories for young artists in our region,” said Courtney Sale, MRT’s Nancy L. Executive Artistic Director. “This collaboration allows MRT the opportunity to serve more families than ever before. And it deeply aligns with our mission to engage community partners and expand programming for youth. A win-win for our region’s families!”

The MRT Summer Stage for Youth is a three-week summer theatre program hosted at MCC’s Richard & Nancy Donahue & Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell. Students will act, sing and dance, finishing their time with a full production of the musical “Newsies, Jr.”

Directed by Oster, the production will feature professional lights, sets and costumes.

Now working full-time at MRT as the assistant lighting and sound supervisor, recent MCC alumna Rhiannon Downer will return to the college to design the lights for the summer program. Downer credits her success to working hands-on with Oster and Peter Waldron, the former Manager of MCC’s Academic Arts Center and professor who passed away.

“I’m very thankful for the opportunity to work with MRT and gain knowledge through them, and I’m so grateful Karen asked me to design ‘Newsies’ this summer,” Downer said. “It has been a huge opportunity for me since I want to be a designer in the long run and having this experience will take me far in my career. Without Karen and Peter’s support and dedication to teaching, I don’t think I would have made it to where I am today.”

Both Oster and Sale agree that the partnership offers a strong career pathway for recent graduates from the college’s theatre program. While studying, students get access to working on professional experiences and networking opportunities, while MRT has a pool of skilled and qualified candidates ready to begin their careers.

One of these opportunities for students was MCC’s involvement in MRT’s production of “Red Riding Hood” produced by Allison Gregory this winter. At MCC’s Academic Arts Center, the production put on 20 matinee performances for Massachusetts young students in kindergarten to second grade who visited with their schools. MCC students had the chance to understudy and work behind the scenes for a number of these performances.

The college and MRT also partnered with faculty and students from UMass Lowell (UML) who helped design and build the scenery for “Red Riding Hood. The partnership between the three organizations provided families and educators across the state with more access to the performing arts.

“Before I arrived at MRT, we served approximately 1,500 students a year,” Sale said. “We served 1,800 students alone with ‘Red Riding Hood,’ making the total number of students served 3,800 this year. Not only did this partnership double our impact to students, the performances acted as a pre-literacy component for early readers, which was a huge resource for educators. The turnout was amazing.”

Serving the community, as well as Middlesex students, is what Oster’s goal is with the summer program and overall partnership with MRT. Both Oster and Sale are excited to build upon their collaboration in the future, including adding a second summer production and year-long opportunities.

“Being able to be involved in the Theatre for Young Audiences was incredible,” Oster said. “We want to create a training program for young people where they can go from their elementary or middle schools and come through this performing arts community, from MCC then onto MRT. The possibilities are endless."
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‘Coffee Hour’ Highlights Impact of Grant Funding for Students Pursuing Early Childhood Education7/16/20247/25/2024 11:21 AM
Middlesex Community College held an event for students in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) program on Saturday, June 29 to celebrate the success of the program. The coffee hour introduced community members to a cohort of students enrolled in MCC’s Health, Safety and Nutrition course being taught in Spanish.

“I have been working in my own family childcare business for 19 years, and since starting these classes, I am always learning something new,” said Gladis Del Llano, an MCC ECE student. “Without this program, I wouldn’t have been able to attend college and gain more knowledge in ECE. I enjoy getting to meet other students and share, while learning at the same time.”

Representative Vanna Howard was in attendance and learned about the impact of MCC’s ECE Career Pathways Grant on students’ academic journeys.

“I was thrilled to visit MCC’s Lowell Campus and hear directly from students pursuing careers in Early Childhood Education,” Representative Howard said. “The cohort took the time to meet with me to discuss their paths to getting an education at the college. Many of these students have worked in the field for years and are honing skills and advancing their knowledge in order to become even stronger leaders as they brighten the minds and lives of our young children.”

ECE classes are funded through the ECE Career Pathways grant and the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). The funding goes toward college tuition, course materials, fees, tutoring services, and career and college advising.

“This has given me the chance to go back to college here in the U.S. and study ECE,” said Isolda Cano-Ramirez, an MCC ECE student. “I am supporting my family back home in Columbia with the money I make here, so to have access to free courses allows me to do that and also support myself. I am leaving a lasting impact on students. Seeing children I used to care for grown up, graduating from high school, etc., that makes me feel accomplished as a caregiver and educator.”

Since the inception of the ECE Career Pathways grant at Middlesex in 2019, over 1,900 students have had coursework paid for toward their ECE certificate, associate and bachelor’s degrees – 366 of whom took classes as part of the 2023-2024 academic year with 50 participating in Dual Enrollment from Woburn, Chelsea and Newton high schools.

“The ECE Career Pathways grant allows us to provide intense, individualized wrap around services for students who are early childhood educators and enrolled in our courses,” said Nancy Pynchon, MCC’s Coordinator of the ECE Career Pathways Grant. “Through the program, students have someone they can reach out to with questions, help with their coursework, and know we are there to support them throughout their academic pathways at MCC.”

Visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/education/pathwayspg.aspx for more information and to register.
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Kids Dive into the World of STEM with MCC’s Summer College for Kids Programs7/1/20247/24/2024 2:35 PM
Middlesex Community College’s summer programs offer kids ages 8 to 17 the chance to dive into the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) in new and exciting ways. Starting Monday, July 8, MCC’s College for Kids classes provide unique opportunities for students to explore their interests.

“We have an exciting line-up of interactive STEM courses your students will love,” said Ellen Wright, MCC’s Assistant Director of Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development. “From new classes featuring exciting experiments to old favorites offering hands-on learning opportunities, classes will keep students engaged and having fun this summer.”

The new More Curious 4 Science classes allow young scientists to learn about hypothesis and theory, as well as to perform age-appropriate experiments to make concepts clear and logical. Each week offers different experiments, including the study of photosynthesis and respiration, microscopic observation of animal and plant cells, isolating DNA from a banana, and making water travel through capillary action.

Students who sign up for All About Science learn through experimenting. Topics including chemistry, biology, physics and animal science will teach students how science works in the real world. Both the introduction and intermediate coding classes, offer students 12 to 17 a better understanding of different programming languages.

In Case Studies in Veterinary Medicine, students who love animals get an in-depth look at working with animals for a career and gaining tips on how to care for small and large animals. This includes building knowledge by performing lab experiments.

While the Lego Mindstorms Robotics & Battlebots class will teach students to work in teams to build, program and battle their own robots, MCC’s new game design course allows students to build and design games, looking into translating games into digital format. In both courses, students work hands-on to build and playtest programs.

Co-sponsored by the Federal Aviation Administration, an ACE Aviation and Simulation course will introduce students to different careers and experts in the field. In its 25th year taught at the college, students can learn about designing, building and testing their own model aircrafts and rockets.

Run by the Community Education and Training team, programs are taught by public school teachers and expert professionals on MCC’s Bedford and Lowell campuses. Students learn new skills, meet new friends, boost self-confidence, and explore future careers. In addition to STEM classes, other topics include cooking and baking, arts and crafts, gaming and fashion design, as well as a new improv class and one focused on Taylor Swift.

Featuring five weeks of full- and half-day programs, Monday through Thursday, full-day programs run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and half-day programs run 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Students who take two half-day programs to make a full day can stay on campus for lunch in between the two sessions.

“This summer, we are thrilled to offer a wide variety of STEM and other fun topics,” Wright said. “Each week allows our students to dive into new subjects they wouldn’t necessarily get to during the school year.”

For more information, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/collegeforkids/ or email CollegeForKids@middlesex.edu and call 781-280-3663.
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MCC Hosts RENEW Graduation Ceremony7/10/20247/23/2024 12:41 PM
On Thursday, May 16, Middlesex Community College hosted a graduation ceremony for students who completed the RENEW Equipment Technician with Robotics course, in partnership with Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC).

“I absolutely loved participating in the program,” said Juan Aguilar, a RENEW program graduate from Burlington who spoke during the ceremony. “The professors were incredibly helpful. Not only did they have decades of experience in automated manufacturing, but they were still working in top positions, so their expertise was up to date with a rapidly evolving industry.”

After completing the program, participants are considered for open positions at Insulet, the Acton-based medical device company that creates delivery systems to treat people with diabetes and other conditions, according to their website.

The 12 program completers included Aguilar, Paul Cates, Sophea Chea, Brett Chin, Colleen Flowers, Peter Holmsten, Eric Howells, German Pineros, Luis Rodriguez, Patricia Romano Vargas, Frizmo Sanon, Roger Tiwari. They are now sitting for the Tooling U certification exam.

Howells, from Plainville, appreciated how approachable the instructors were. He believed the experience was fun and easygoing and recommended similar programs to anyone interested in manufacturing.

“I had a great time,” Howells said. “All of the instructors were helpful. Jennifer Stephens explained the concepts of PLC programming and troubleshooting in a way that made it easier for me to understand. Collaborating and talking with my peers was one of my favorite parts.”

Using the skills and knowledge gained from the program, Pineros, from Worcester, plans to work in a robotics environment. He enjoyed learning about hands-on robotics and thought the professors were helpful throughout the process.

“I would recommend the program to anyone,” Pineros said. “The opportunity improves your knowledge and updates you on new technology in the production area.”

The Commonwealth Corporation with EOLWD and the Workforce Skills Cabinet awarded MWCC the RENEW grant through funding by the American Rescue Plan Act. MCC, Mass Life Sciences, Insulet and MassHire coordinated to run the program.

The program ran from March 25 to May 16 on MCC’s Bedford campus. MWCC provided a technical advisor and the robotics equipment and trainer, with an instructor for MCC and curriculum and collaboration with MassHire Lowell.

“Staff from MCC and MWCC worked together to make a great learning experience for the students,” said Katy Gentile, MCC’s Assistant Director of Corporate Education and Training. “I truly believe that much of the success of the program, in addition to the hard work of the students and high quality instruction, can be attributed to the partnership between the institutions. It was the largest and most successful cohort yet.”
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MCC Hosts Tuition Equity Sessions to Help Students Understand New Law7/2/20247/22/2024 10:38 AM
​This summer, Middlesex Community College is helping current and prospective students and their families understand Tuition Equity. Virtual information sessions will go over the new Massachusetts state law, including what tuition equity is and how qualifying students can take advantage.

“As Tuition Equity is new in Massachusetts, we understand students may feel overwhelmed or not know how the program can help them, but there are many advantages,” said Jeffrey Tejada, MCC’s Director of International Admissions & Compliance. “Paying in-state tuition and fees can save students over $200 per credit, while also helping them prioritize going to school and getting on track to reach their goals faster.”

Tuition Equity allows qualifying non-U.S. citizens – including undocumented students – to be eligible for in-state tuition and qualify for state financial aid programs in Massachusetts. During the events, Tejada will explain the process and benefits, as well as walk through each step a student needs to complete to see if they qualify.

MCC’s virtual sessions will run online from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, including July 16, July 30, August 13 and August 27.

Students may qualify for Tuition Equity if they are a non-U.S. citizen, including undocumented; attended high school in Mass. for three or more years; earned a Mass. high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED or HiSET; and are admitted to a Mass. college or university.

To see if they are eligible for Tuition Equity at Middlesex, new or returning students can apply to the college and complete the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA). Students will then complete the Tuition Equity Eligibility Form. Current students can also fill out the MASFA and eligibility form.

Qualifying students will be refunded for the amount that exceeded in-state tuition for classes that began on or after July 1, 2023.

At MCC, students can choose from over 80 associate degree and certificate programs. Flexible course options include on-campus, online, hybrid, hyflex and accelerated classes, as well as free and award-winning student support services, such as tutoring and advising.

Middlesex will offer a final five-week summer session starting on Monday, July 8, as well as the Fall 2024 semester beginning on Tuesday. September 3. Students can choose from the traditional 15-week semester and two accelerated, eight-week Mini-mesters – the second session starting on Monday, October 28.

“With the upcoming semesters approaching, now is the best time to learn about Tuition Equity and see if you are eligible,” Tejada said. “I’m here to help you every step of the way!”

Visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/admissions/paying/tuitionequ.aspx for more information and to register.
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This Fall, Take Advantage of MCC’s Flexible & Accelerated Courses 7/8/20247/18/2024 2:07 PM
​Middlesex Community College helps students fit education into their busy lives. Starting Tuesday, September 3, the Fall 2024 semester will offer a variety of flexible course options, including on-campus, online and accelerated classes. This includes two eight-week Mini-mesters for students to reach their goals faster.

“Over the years, Mini-mesters have proven to be a popular and convenient option that best meet the needs of many of our students,” said Scott O’Neil, MCC’s Dean of Enrollment Services. “The accelerated classes allow you to fit more classes into your schedule and earn your degree or certificate faster. Mini-mesters also provide an additional start midway through the semester and allow you to commit to a subject in a shorter timeframe.”

MCC’s Mini-mesters provide the same content, academic standards, and number of instructional hours as courses scheduled during the traditional 15-week semester. Accelerated sessions allow students to finish credits faster, take classes over a shorter period of time, and balance their studies with other responsibilities.

Students taking Mini-mester courses can complete general education requirements and earn college credit. They can also explore a variety of subjects, including arts and humanities, business, education, health, social science, public service and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

The accelerated courses allow students to make going to college a priority and a possibility. All MCC students gain access to award-winning student support services and resources to help them succeed from day one, including tutoring and advising in academics, career and financial wellness.

Students enrolled in Mini-mester I and II may also qualify for financial aid. MCC encourages students to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as early as possible to find out their eligibility.

The college will host two FAFSA Completion workshops to provide an overview and assistance in filling out the form. The workshops will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 11 in the Computer Lab in MCC’s Cowan Center on the Lowell campus and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 1 in the Computer Lab in the Academic Resource Center on the Bedford campus.

“We have a team of financial aid experts on staff who can help you earn as much financial aid as possible,” O’Neil said. “Fill out your FAFSA so we can customize your package and ensure you leave MCC with as little debt as possible.”

While Fall Mini-mester I begins the same day as the traditional semester on Tuesday, September 3, MCC’s Fall Mini-mester II will start later in the semester on Monday, October 28.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ for more information and to register for classes.
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MCC Hosting FAFSA Completion Events to Help Students Apply for Financial Aid6/24/20247/17/2024 9:04 AM
Ahead of the Fall 2024 semester, Middlesex Community College is encouraging students to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This summer, MCC’s Office of Financial Aid will host workshops to help students learn more about the new 2024-2025 FAFSA and earn financial assistance.

“Completing the FAFSA is one of the best ways students can set themselves up for success at college and beyond,” said Kimberly Tibbetts, MCC’s Director of Financial Aid. “While the process can seem overwhelming and scary, we have a team of financial aid experts who work with you one-on-one. Our goal is to customize each offer for you and your circumstances to help you leave MCC with as little debt as possible.”

The workshops will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 11 in the Computer Lab in MCC’s Cowan Center on the Lowell campus and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 1 in the Computer Lab in the Academic Resource Center on the Bedford campus.

During the workshops, students will receive an overview of the 2024-2025 FAFSA. Students and their families can also receive assistance completing the FAFSA from MCC financial aid and professional staff.

Middlesex also has partnerships with two organizations to help students complete the FAFSA. Students can work with a uAspire advisor who will respond within 24 hours to answer questions or meet on Zoom. The Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) is also available to set up a free, one-on-one virtual FAFSA completion session for MCC students.

Financial aid awards are based on financial need, enrollment status in an eligible program, and availability of funding. Additional forms of financial aid, including student employment, federal work study programs or scholarship opportunities, may be available for those who qualify.

“The FAFSA is free and easy to fill out,” Tibbetts said. “It’s worth completing because students often qualify for more than they think!”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/financialaid/ for more information and to register for a session.
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MCC Celebrates Pride Month6/26/20247/16/2024 10:07 AM
For Pride Month, Middlesex Community College students, staff and faculty honored the college’s LGBTQ+ community by attending Pride events in Bedford, Boston and Lowell. Led by MCC’s SUCCESS Scholars Program (SSP) and professional staff across the college, community members marched and celebrated with live music, games and crafts.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Pride Month and uplift our LGBTQ+ students and employees,” said Phil Sisson, MCC’s President. “At MCC, belonging and equity are at the forefront of what we do. Our participation at the events provided an important opportunity to represent the college within the communities of Bedford, Boston and Lowell while showing off our MCC pride!”

At the Boston Pride Parade, MCC marched with MassBay and Cape Cod Community Colleges. Jaimie March, MCC’s Director of Student Access and Support Services, enjoyed representing MCC and connecting with and being alongside fellow Mass. community colleges.

“The experience was great,” March said. “Seeing the high number of parade spectators and participants was incredible. When spectators shouted in support of community colleges, I was filled with joy. Our efforts were for a great cause. I see participation in affirming events like Pride parades as a way to help students feel accepted for their whole being.”

Connor Nickerson, MCC’s LGBTQ+ Success Coach, believed the Pride events were a reminder of the progress that has been made in the United States. He appreciated how the experiences brought attention to struggles that the LGBTQ+ community still face.

“We wanted the students to have an opportunity to show their pride and celebrate their identity,” Nickerson said. “Having the students see that MCC supports them by attending Pride events is important. These experiences build community and act as a beacon for LGBTQ+ students and their allies to come and connect with each other.”

For Noreen McGinness Olson, MCC’s Assistant Dean of Student Success, the Pride events were an opportunity to bring individuals from a variety of backgrounds together. By engaging in activities and sharing the experiences, they were able to grow with one another.

“The events offered a platform for open dialogue and mutual support,” Olson said. “The opportunity enhanced the overall sense of belonging within the college and promoted acceptance. MCC’s participation helped strengthen our community by fostering relationships among students, faculty and staff.”

SSP’s programming serves Asian American, Black, African American, Latinx, Undocumented and LGBTQ+ students by providing guidance and resources. Students build relationships with peers who have similar academic goals, interests or hobbies, as well as faculty and staff mentors across the college.

The program focuses on helping students be successful in college. To support students in earning a degree, SSP offers financial and personal wellness, coaching and mentoring, and career development.

Tiffany Laudano, MCC’s Director of Success Scholars Program, believes that celebrating Pride Month helps students feel like they belong. She views discussions and events around Pride helpful for LGBTQ+ students. The experiences allow them to feel seen and recognized.

“SUCCESS students participating in the Pride parades signifies support for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity,” Laudano said. “Their engagement shows that MCC is fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated and respected. The Pride parades promoted self-confidence and self-acceptance and empowered students personally by allowing them to express themselves authentically and proudly.”
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MCC Student Advancing Career in Biotechnology with Hands-on Experiences & Opportunities6/27/20247/15/2024 10:24 AM
​With a talent for paying close attention to detail and a passion for helping others, Frank Dolan, of Londonderry, N.H., was led to the biotechnology industry and Middlesex Community College by an alum of the program. At MCC, Dolan gains technical knowledge and hands-on experiences to advance in his role in the biotech field.

“MCC will help me reach my goals by providing me with the skills needed to succeed, as well as a built-in network of alumni and other networking opportunities through the biotech club,” Dolan said. “Connections are highly important in the biotech industry, and MCC truly helps in making those connections.”

In MCC’s program, Dolan learns from guest speakers and alumni about their professional journeys. He credits MCC’s Professor & Chair of Biotechnology Dr. Mariluci Bladon for maintaining these connections to help students jumpstart or advance in their careers. He also believes these experiences allow the college to stay updated on the latest industry trends.

Working with Dr. Bladon one-on-one has also helped Dolan have a clearer understanding of complex concepts, as well as better retain the information he learns in his classes. Already working full-time in the biotech field, he has found that the college’s recently renovated, state-of-the-art lab has prepared him to perform important and relevant techniques at his job.

“Lab experiences have been fundamental to my success,” he said. “As a hands-on learner, labs have provided me with the guidance to become proficient in skills that are needed in the industry and have provided the perfect opportunity to enhance the technical skills I have a natural aptitude for.”

At Middlesex, Dolan is part of the Biotech Club, New England Parenteral Drug Association, and the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering. He received financial assistance from the college’s STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) Starter Academy, which makes STEM students more aware of the opportunities available to them, as well as assists them toward completing their programs and graduating.

The first in his family to attend college, Dolan is also a member of MCC’s TRiO Student Success Program in support of first generation students. Through the federally funded program, an advisor works with him to explore his options, save money on the costs of college, be successful in his classes, and stay on track to graduate on time.

“My meetings with TRiO have helped me gather my thoughts and organize, which has been helpful in my educational journey,” Dolan said. “The support of everyone at MCC made me feel that I could be successful in continuing my education.”

Dolan graduated from MCC with a certificate in biotechnology in May 2024. A combination of his positive experiences and encouragement from his professors led him to stay at Middlesex to complete his associate degree. After graduating, he plans to advance in the industry.

He feels MCC has helped him build a foundation of knowledge and networking contacts to progress in his career.

“The biotechnology industry has a hub in Boston, and the earning potential and job opportunities are boundless,” Dolan said. “It is a great opportunity to not only provide for myself, but to help others by manufacturing pharmaceutical products and enduring safe and effective medicines reach patients.”
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Students “ACE” Their Classes with MCC’s Tutoring Services6/18/20247/11/2024 9:52 AM
To assist students with developing their academic skills and learning habits, Middlesex Community College’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE) provides support and study areas. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the Center created 4,492 appointments, scheduled 3,231 appointments, and served 1,179 distinct students.

“The ACE staff is so kind,” said Anisha Rao, an MCC Early Childhood and Education student from Andover. “They are good at giving in-depth explanations and directions about tasks. I am very thankful that I was introduced to the Centers. The services are extremely beneficial to students.”

Rao works for ACE as a writing and embedded tutor. She appreciates the ACE community and how helpful the mentors and learning specialists are.

Interacting with students and fellow ACE members makes John Poland’s journey at MCC more rewarding. An MCC Business student from Billerica, he is a writing and business tutor who loves the sense of belonging and diversity that the Center offers.

“It is good to be around that atmosphere and talk to people from different walks of life,” Poland said. “The services are included in our tuition and provide students with a tool to improve their grades. They have a way to talk about their assignments with people who understand the material.”

Ritta Kuong assists with setting up events and speaks to students about ACE at information booths and in front of classes. She is an MCC Biology student from Lowell and math and science tutor.

“Everyone is nice and welcoming,” Kuong said. “I enjoy the activities ACE hosts such as our monthly meetings with student leaders. Sometimes the center hosts brainstorming games and I believe that is important for team building and improving our critical thinking skills.”

MCC students can receive individual or group tutoring from ACE Student Leaders. The tutors are faculty-recommended students with expertise in subjects including math, writing and science. Students who need help in a specific class can also be paired with a tutor who has experience with the material.

In the sessions, students will learn study methods that help them better understand the course material. Tutors will also answer any questions related to the material and explain course expectations.

ACE uses Google Classroom to offer students tips on navigating college, developing time management skills, and guidance on using Blackboard, MCC’s online learning management system. There are opportunities to engage with the Center more by joining Academic Discussion and MCC Story Group. Each option allows students to practice their speaking skills or read and discuss fiction and non-fiction books.

Tutoring services are offered in-person on both campuses, including the Cowan Center in Lowell in Room LC406B and the Library in Bedford in Rooms AR/LIB-3 and AR/LIB-7, and online via Zoom. Visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/ace/ for more information.

“ACE supports these students at any point in their academic journey, from English language learner and developmental courses through the Honors Program, in multiple disciplines,” said Christine Bell, Director of Academic Support Programs. “The ACE mission is to empower students to become independent, intellectually curious, lifelong learners. ACE is the place for all MCC Students!”
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MCC Sustainability Club Students Visit Acadia National Park6/25/20247/10/2024 10:57 AM
​As part of the Sustainability Club, a group of Middlesex Community College students visited Acadia National Park from Friday, April 26 to Sunday, April 28. Led by MCC’s Associate Professor of Science Dr. Lisa Lobel, the trip was an opportunity for students to learn about Maine’s coastal ecosystems firsthand.

“The trip was highly educational,” said Jaime Lehoux, an MCC biology student from Lexington. “Having Professor Lobel on the trip was phenomenal, as not only did she share our interest and excitement in everything around us, she was able to provide exceptional insight and knowledge to our observations. I also feel like I’ve learned a lot from the other students as we were all able to contribute information retaining to our different but similar interests.”

To begin, the group explored tide pools at sunset. The next day’s plans included a hike, but when the trail they chose was closed due to nesting season for peregrine falcons, they took another path. During the hike, the group faced rocky terrain and steep inclines.

All the group’s experiences included hands-on learning opportunities to understand more about the ecology of where land meets the ocean. The students explored coastal flora and fauna, as well as creatures in tide pools and cliffside plants. For Lehoux, the experience was a chance to observe areas undisturbed by humans.

“I rediscovered my love of hiking and refreshed my intrinsic love of learning and the natural world,” Lehoux said.

“I’ve felt more motivated to do deep dives into hyper-specific topics as well as to pursue a potential career in some sort of biological or environmental science. I also found a greater appreciation for the effort scientists put into learning about the world and for what they do and have done.”

As the supervisor of MCC’s Sustainability Club, Lobel guides the students in leaving as little a mark on the environment as possible and forming a positive relationship with nature, according to Lehoux. At the college, the group taps trees for maple syrup and work in the Bedford campus garden. The trip to Acadia was just one example of how Lobel inspires her students to learn about and take care of the environment.

“As students explored the multiple ecosystems found within Acadia, the students gained a newfound appreciation for the importance of preserving natural habitats and fostering environmental stewardship,” Lobel said. “Inspired by their immersive encounter with Acadia's wilderness, they returned home with cherished memories and a deepened understanding of the intricate ecosystems that sustain life along Maine's majestic coastline.”
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Alumna Rediscovers Passion for Career Path in New Role at MCC6/20/20247/9/2024 9:54 AM
​From Puerto Rico and now living in Lowell, Cristina Rivera enjoyed studying film production at Middlesex Community College. Although some challenges kept her from continuing in the industry after graduating, Rivera worked in a restaurant where she was promoted to manager. Now, she has returned to both the communication field and MCC as the new Media Production Assistant.

“I rediscovered myself and gained the strength to be ready to change my career path,” Rivera said. “My education from MCC assisted with providing not only the experience, but the confidence when taking on any jobs in the field. I genuinely love MCC.”

To get back into the communications field, Rivera started volunteering at the Lowell TeleMedia Center on video projects before working as an event videographer for a nonprofit organization. She also had the opportunity to work as a judge for a film festival and took on freelance photography jobs.

In her new role at Middlesex, Rivera works with the media team to record, edit and create graphics, and train interns for school events. She also participated in a school trip to the Mass Production Coalition’s Camera Operator Bootcamp at Red Sky Studio.

"As a Media Production Assistant, I am continuously learning new equipment, production skills, and the confidence to guide interns to success,” Rivera said. “I am so grateful for the opportunity to follow one of my passions & be a part of an amazing team!"

Taking classes and working at MCC during her time as a student prepared Rivera to make this career transition. As she learned the fundamentals of film production and photography, she used equipment in real-life situations inside and outside of the college community. She also experienced working as part of a team on various projects.

For Rivera, MCC’s “faculty are what really made the experience worthwhile.” This includes Dr. Jennifer Bauer, MCC’s Chair of Communication, Art and Design. Rivera names Bauer as having impacted her time the most at the college. Now they have a chance to worl together in a professional setting.

Referred to by Bauer as a “standout student,” Rivera was also the cinematographer for the college’s 2017 entry into the Boston Independent Film Festival.

“I was a little intimidated and nervous at first, but it was an honor to represent MCC in a room full of strong universities,” Rivera said. “I was so proud of myself and my team. It was one of my biggest accomplishments, which made it the happiest day of my life!”

Now as a staff member at MCC, Rivera sees an opportunity to dive back into the field she started as a student at the college. In addition to working, she is looking forward to continuing her education to earn a bachelor’s degree in communication. Middlesex is the starting point for both pursuits.

“MCC was life-changing – being a student here gave me direction and a purpose during the roughest time in my life,” she said. “I am so grateful to work for MCC and I am looking forward to growing here!”
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This Summer, MCC to Offer FAA Remote Pilot Certification Course6/11/20247/8/2024 12:46 PM
​This summer, Middlesex Community College is offering an FAA Remote Pilot Certification program. Run by the college’s Community Education and Training (CET) division, the course will take place on MCC’s Bedford Campus starting on Saturday, July 13.

“From real estate agents taking aerial photos to engineers better envisioning their ideas, the pilot certification benefits a variety of industries,” said Audrey Nahabedian, MCC’s Dean of Workforce Development. “The program is open to anyone interested in adding a useful skill to their resume or learning a fun new hobby. The certification serves to make businesses more legitimate in the services they offer.”

Over three days, participants will learn about FAA requirements for drone operations, regulations and safety practices. The 21-hour course covers all of the required knowledge content areas of the FAA’s Remote Pilot Test. Skills include regulations, the National Airspace System, weather, aircraft loading and performance, and flight operations.

The program will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for three consecutive Saturdays, from July 13 to July 27. Taught by Aviation and UAS industry expert David Price, previous aviation experience is not required to sign up for the program. Upon completion, students will be prepared to sit for the FAA Remote Pilot Test.

MCC’s CET courses and programs provide employees with the training and skills they need to advance in their careers. Other classes this summer include eligible grant funded programs, including a Business Computer Applications Certificate starting July 12 and Practical Computers beginning August 6.

“We have a variety of programs this summer to help individuals advance their careers and enrich their lives,” Nahabedian said. “Gain valuable and meaningful insight into some of the leading industries in the state to become prepared to get hired into stable and fulfilling roles.”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/careertraining/ for more information and to register for classes.
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MCC’s Revamped Medical Billing & Coding Certificate Offered Fully Online6/17/20247/2/2024 11:07 AM
​Middlesex Community College is committed to helping make education more equitable and accessible. To provide students with more flexible learning options, Middlesex has revamped the medical billing and coding certificate to offer the program fully online.

“We decided to move the program completely online based on feedback from students and also to expand our reach to students beyond the Greater Lowell and Bedford areas,” said Tracey McKethan, MCC’s Program Coordinator for Medical Billing & Coding. “Faculty stay up-to-date using the latest code books and textbooks, along with hands-on learning.”

The program provides students with the skills to work on the administrative side of medicine, according to McKethan. This includes dealing with insurance companies, understanding the claim life cycle and revenue management, as well as converting medical documentation into diagnosis and procedural coding for reimbursement.

By the end of the program, students should be able to report diagnosis and procedure codes following official guidelines, understand electronic health records (EHRs), and Medicare, Medicaid and private payers. In addition to classroom learning, students gain access to career counseling and support, tutoring and other health career-related experiences.

Students will be prepared to take the national coding exam and to work in an entry-level billing or coding position. Options include inpatient and outpatient long-term care facilities, hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, billing agencies and insurance companies.

The 24-credit program is offered online with no scheduled meetings unless needed. Students complete courses over MCC’s accelerated Mini-mesters. The eight-week Mini-mesters provide the same content, academic standards, and number of instructional hours as courses scheduled during the traditional 15-week semester.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ for more information and to register.
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MCC’s Evening of Excellence Honors ’24 Graduates5/30/20247/1/2024 1:30 PM
​On Tuesday, May 21, Middlesex Community College held an Evening of Excellence Student Award Celebration to honor the achievements of the 2024 graduating class. Recognizing students for their academic achievements in their program pathways, the event featured three student speakers sharing their stories of success, including Prachi Dayal, Maddy Fadden and Muy Ngy Lov.

“Being named an Evening of Excellence speaker is such an honor,” Dayal said. “My speech reflects on a letter I wrote to my future self in sixth grade, and it was so healing to write and read out loud. Being nominated and then selected instilled so much confidence, and I am so grateful to the people who helped me get there.”

Dayal, from Lowell and now living in Acton, graduated from MCC’s paralegal studies program with highest honors. An MCC tutor and Blackboard Ambassador, she completed an internship at Lowell Juvenile Court and was this year’s recipient of the Deborah Walsh Paralegal Studies Award. She plans to transfer to pursue her bachelor’s degree and one day go to law school.

A Liberal Studies major from Dracut, Fadden graduated with honors. A member and now mentor of MCC’s Success Scholars Program, she was president of Club Prism and is a Commonwealth Honors Scholar. Hoping to one day work in student affairs in higher education, she will transfer to Southern New Hampshire University to earn a bachelor’s in General Studies with a concentration in Diversity and Cultural Awareness.

“To be an Evening of Excellence speaker is such an honor,” Fadden said. “I feel appreciated for everything I’ve done for this community. I truly don’t have enough words to explain how much this means to me.”

From Cambodia and now living in Lowell, Lov graduated from MCC’s biology program with high honors. An active member of the college community, she participated in as many MCC activities and clubs as possible. For her work around campus, she received a Distinguished Student Award for Student Spirit. Interested in pursuing pre-medicine studies, Lov plans to transfer to earn a bachelor’s degree and one day go to medical school.

“To be named an Evening of Excellence speaker, it is both an honor and an opportunity to use my voice to inspire others – especially the youth – and to share my story,” Lov said. “To win an award, it felt surreal as I never thought I would even be considered. It is a privilege and an honor.”

In addition to honoring academic achievements, awards focused on students’ service to MCC through their involvement in programs and leadership experiences. These include Commonwealth Honors Scholars, Engaged Scholars, Supplemental Instruction (SI) Leaders, Academic Centers for Enrichment Tutors, and Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society members.

MCC’s President Phil Sisson, Provost Arlene Rodríguez and faculty and staff from all areas of the college joined the graduates’ family, friends and supporters at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium. A reception followed the event.

Provost Rodríguez shared how proud the college was of the students and their dedication throughout the duration of their time at MCC.

“At MCC, we have incredible, hard-working students who have proven their commitment to their academic studies, the college and themselves,” Rodríguez said. “During their time here, these award recipients have showed strong academic achievement and worked in valuable roles across our campuses. We are so proud to honor them with this prestigious recognition.”
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Recent Graduate Found Belonging at MCC Thanks to Community of Support6/13/20246/27/2024 2:56 PM
​After 10 years of being out of school, Maddy Fadden, of Dracut, was looking for a career beyond retail. From the beginning of her time at Middlesex Community College, she found a community of support that made her feel like she belonged. Combined with a variety of opportunities in and outside of the classroom, Fadden realized the academic and professional path she wanted to pursue.

“My experience has been amazing,” Fadden said. “I made friends, met people from all over the world, and got to do things that I normally wouldn’t have done if I didn’t go to school. Also, the support I have received from MCC being a transgender student has been nothing but supportive and it made me feel like I truly belong.”

Joining MCC’s Success Scholars Program helped set Fadden up for success from the start of her time at the college. This includes a program-led New York City Pride trip where she learned more about the opportunities MCC offers and met new friends within her community.

Within the Success Scholars Program, Fadden also had a mentor and worked with faculty and staff who helped her navigate college. They showed her all the resources available to her at MCC and advocated for her needs. Inspired by their guidance, Fadden became a peer mentor to assist others like herself at MCC.

“Without the people who supported me, I wouldn’t be graduating,” Fadden said. “Being part of the Success Scholars Program, I started learning about different communities, religions and traditions. I learned the importance of being a great ally and they did the same with me.”

During her time at Middlesex, Fadden stayed busy on campus. As an orientation leader, she welcomed new students to the college experience. Part of MCC’s Prism Club, Fadden organized events on campus, including the winter formal and the update of the Pride Flag rising. For the 2022-2023 academic year, she was the student body president representing the student voice for MCC’s Office of Student Engagement.

Graduating from MCC with honors in May 2024, she was a Commonwealth Honors Scholar. She was also named a 2024 Evening of Excellence speaker where she shared her story of success with the audience.

“To be an Evening of Excellence speaker is such an honor,” Fadden said. “I feel appreciated for everything I’ve done for this community. I truly don’t have enough words to explain how much this means to me.”

A Liberal Studies major, Fadden enjoyed taking classes in the subjects she wanted to take. Along with her extracurricular activities, this helped her narrow down a career that interested her.

Fadden’s involvement in activities at MCC inspired her to pursue working in student affairs in higher education. In the fall of 2024, she will transfer to Southern New Hampshire University to study General Studies with a concentration in Diversity and Cultural Awareness.

“MCC helped me find my full potential of being a leader, the fundamentals of being a great ally, and introduced me to two of my best friends,” she said. “Being part of this community made me realize that no matter who you are, there is a community who will care for and support you here. All students across this country deserve the education they want and strive for.”
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MCC Students Learn Skills and Earn Certificates Through Metallica Scholarship6/12/20246/26/2024 10:42 AM
Students enrolled in an electronics course at Middlesex Community College were presented with a hand soldering certificate on Friday, May 3. After finishing their final projects, the students reflected on their experiences. The course is fully funded by Metallica’s Foundation, All Within My Hands, through the Metallica Scholars Initiative.

Eden Vachtel, an MCC Biomedical Engineering major from Lexington, learned about the course after MCC Professor Cristopher Algarra emailed her about the opportunity. After receiving more information about it, she was excited.

“At first, I thought about being a doctor, but then I realized I wanted to work behind the scenes,” Vachtel said. “I became more interested in hands-on work and increasing my engineering and manufacturing knowledge. This allowed me to improve my building and problem-solving skills.”

In the Summer of 2022, Middlesex was selected from a competitive field of community colleges across the country to receive $100,000. With the funding, MCC’s Corporate and Community Education and Training division worked with MassHire Lowell to develop an electronics course to teach participants the knowledge and skills they need to be hired into entry-level positions in the advanced manufacturing field.

The course was taught by Professor Nicoleta Cozi on MCC’s Bedford campus where students developed their soldering skills.

Sean Wilcox, an MCC Mechanical Engineering major from Reading, participated in the course after Algarra contacted him. With four years of soldering experience, he wanted to hone his skills.

“I think it is an amazing program,” Wilcox said. “The teachers care about you which is refreshing. The program offers a great path for people who are willing to work hard and put in their best efforts.”

Katy Gentile, MCC’s Assistant Director of Corporate Education and Training, believes that through the program’s scholarship and course offerings, OSHA-30 certification and J-standard preparation, student applicants enrolled in a STEM major or certificate program can build their resume, learn new hands-on skills, and lessen their cost of tuition.

“All three choices are a game changer,” Gentile said. “We are proud to offer a skill developing opportunity that can be life-changing for our students and help them discover stable employment.”

About All Within My Hands (AWMH)

Established by the members and management of Metallica in 2017 as a means to invest in the people and places that have supported the band, the Foundation is focused on supporting sustainable communities through workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services. All expenses of the Foundation are covered by the band, the board, and a few special friends so that 100% of donations go to the organizations it supports. AWMH is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

About American Association of Community Colleges (AACC)

As the voice of the nation’s community colleges, the AACC delivers educational and economic opportunity for more than 10 million diverse students searching for the American Dream. Uniquely dedicated to access and success for all students, AACC’s nearly 1,100 member colleges provide an on-ramp to degree attainment, skilled careers and family-supporting wages. Located in Washington, D.C.. AACC advocates for these not-for-profit, public-serving institutions to ensure they have the resources and support they need to deliver on the mission of increasing economic mobility for all.
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2024 MCC Criminal & Social Justice Graduate to Transfer to Harvard University6/6/20246/25/2024 11:17 AM
Growing up in the Boston Housing Authority, Stephanie Berardi, now of Lowell, witnessed and experienced social issues related to race, class and gender. Looking to make positive changes in her community, she started studying Criminal and Social Justice at Middlesex Community College. In the fall of 2024, she will transfer to Harvard University to continue working toward social reform.

“Pursuing higher education was a decision driven by a desire for a better future and the hopes of what could be for me and my community,” Berardi said. “I chose MCC because I knew it was a college that offered equal opportunities to everyone and is a place where anything is possible as long as you’re willing to work for it. I’m pursuing a degree in criminal and social justice to give people the tools to break the cycle and to stand as an ally to all those who think it’s not possible or believe the system can’t be beaten.”

Calling MCC’s Criminal and Social Justice program “comprehensive,” Berardi benefitted from hands-on opportunities and an internship with the Woburn Superior Court. Combined with classes such as Law, Justice and Society and Society and Victims of Crime, these experiences allowed her to explore the role of social issues within the criminal justice system, including poverty, substance abuse, and mental health.

In her internship, Berardi shadowed probation officers to listen to court procedures, learn operating systems, and explore state rehabilitation guidelines. She helped identify relevant programs and develop rehabilitation plans for those struggling with substance abuse, as well as organized and updated case files.

“Seeing this allowed me to grain a new level of empathy and understanding, which helps provide better support and services for them,” she said. “I’ve learned to develop skills to address social problems such as risk assessment, intervention strategies, and rehabilitation. MCC’s classes taught me the value of learning from experience and being able to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to the outside world.”

In addition to working with professors in her program, Berardi connected with members of MCC’s Success Scholars and TRIO programs. In the Success Scholars Program, she was connected to resources, mentors and advisors who helped her navigate college. Through a supportive and welcoming environment, the TRIO program helped Berardi feel like she belonged at Middlesex.

Berardi names the Director of MCC’s TRIO for Student Success Program Joanne Jaber Gauvin as someone who has impacted her most at Middlesex. “She taught me that getting a college education isn’t just about the degree,” she said. “It’s about your experiences while at college and enhancing the way you see the world.”

At MCC, Berardi also appreciated flexible class schedules with online and accelerated options that helped her finish her degree in just one year. As a Commonwealth Honors Scholar, Vice President of the Student Government Association, and a member of the LatinX Club, she learned more about leadership and advocating for the diverse needs of her classmates.

Graduating from MCC with highest honors, Berardi received the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship, the 2023 New England Transfer Association Scholarship (NETA) Governing Board Scholarship, and was awarded the Donald J. Melisi Criminal and Social Justice Award for Academic Excellence.

Berardi credits MCC for giving her a foundation for her future.

“MCC was the perfect start for me because it gave me a safe place to learn about what it takes to be a college student while providing me with programs to help me navigate the academic world,” she said. “MCC has supported me and provided opportunities to help me grow socially, academically and professionally.”
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Teens Get an Early Start to College & Career Exploration This Summer at MCC5/28/20246/24/2024 12:07 PM
​This summer at Middlesex Community College, teens can get an early start on the college experience. Through MCC’s Community Education & Training division, students in the College for Teens program can explore the engineering and public service pathways and gain skills to develop future academic and professional interests.

“With our College for Teens programs, young students get the chance to learn about different careers and pathways they can take,” said Audrey Nahabedian, MCC’s Dean of Workforce Education. “In addition to learning more about a specific subject, they freshen up valuable skills, gain confidence, and develop helpful habits they can use as they continue their education.”

For students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), an Engineering/Computer Aided Design (CAD) course introduces high school students to the field. The class allows students to explore skills, values and life goals, while teaching tools, such as hand-on printed circuit board layout, 3D printers, and software programs.

Taught by MCC professor Angel Escalona, the class will also provide information on current jobs and career mapping. The class will run from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from June 3 to June 12 on the Bedford Campus.

In the Public Service Career Exploration class, students learn about careers in a variety of fields, including law enforcement agencies, court system, corrections, emergency response services and victim services. High school students will explore how their interests, personality, skills, values and life goals match with their strengths in the public service industry.

In addition, students will go on a walking field trip and tour to the Lowell Police Department and Lowell Justice Center. The Public Service class will be taught by MCC professor Marisol Nobrega from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday, July 8 to July 11 on the Lowell Campus.

“We hope to spark students’ interest in the criminal and social justice program and show them that our program is very unique because we offer several paid and unpaid internships, networking opportunities and field trips,” Nobrega said. “I plan to take the teens to visit to the courthouse as well as the police station. I believe criminal justice has many valuable professions and hope to inspire the youth into seeking a degree and career path in one.”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/careertraining/ for more information and to register.
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Kids Love Variety of Programming Offered at MCC’s College for Kids Summer Camps6/10/20246/20/2024 12:48 PM
This summer, Middlesex Community College’s College for Kids program are debuting a variety of new classes. In MCC’s summer programs, kids ages 8 to 17 engage in interactive activities to explore future careers, learn new skills, meet new friends, and boost self-confidence.

“I loved the variety of things we did in aviation camp,” said Charlie Dugan, a 10-year-old College for Kids student from North Andover. “We did a lot of hands-on experiments. We used toy planes, paper planes and simulators. The instructor John was very nice and very understanding. I’m looking forward to doing more outdoor experiments this year and to trying another MCC camp.”

College for Kids classes run July 8 to August 8, featuring subjects including Ace Aviation, All About Science, Coding, Dungeons and Dragons, Cakes and Cupcakes, Creative Drawing and Exploration Art Studio.

New programs debuting this summer include subjects in science, game design, improv, dance, and Taylor Swift. In Curious 4 Science Concepts, students have the chance to perform experiments, including a lava lamp and microscopic observation of plant and animal cells. A game design course allows students to build, design and look intro translating games into digital formats. Skills include planning out a timeline, playtesting, design and implementation.

The new On the Spot Improv teaches young students the basics of improv through playing games and creating scenes. Skills include active listening, quick thinking and imagination. Students in the dance bootcamp learn the fundamentals of improv, as well as a pom dance, hip hop, and one they create together throughout the week, ending with a group performance.

MCC’s new (NOT SO) Cruel Summer focuses on the songs and sensation of Taylor Swift. Fans will take a creative writing-based deep dive of the artist’s greatest hits, analyzing the poetry behind her work. There will be the opportunity to listen to songs, watch music videos, and make friendship bracelets.

“We are thrilled to offer a line-up of popular returning and new and exciting programs this summer,” said Ellen Wright, MCC’s Assistant Director of Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development. “While our students enjoy collaborating with their friends on topics they wouldn’t normally learn in school, they also gain skills that develop their academic interests that may plant the seeds for potential future careers.”

Programs are taught by public school teachers and expert professionals on MCC’s Bedford and Lowell campuses. Featuring five weeks of full- and half-day programs, Monday through Thursday, full-day programs run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and half-day programs run 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Students who take two half-day programs to make a full day can stay on campus for lunch in between the two sessions.

For more information, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/collegeforkids/ or email CollegeForKids@middlesex.edu and call 781-280-3663.
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Three MCC Students Named to Phi Theta Kappa All-Massachusetts Team6/5/20246/18/2024 1:41 PM
Three Middlesex Community College students were named to the 2024 Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) All-Massachusetts Team: Nicole Dione Marques, Lihong Li and Riam Mian. The students were recognized at a ceremony at the State House in Boston on Friday, May 9.

“It is a great honor to be recognized among so many great students,” Marques said. “MCC has helped reach my goal toward getting a degree while keeping me financially stable. The quality of classes, dedication from staff, and the price per class at MCC is undefeated.”

From Brazil and now living in Tewksbury, Marques graduated from Middlesex as a Business Administration student. In the fall of 2024, she plans to transfer to Boston College to continue studying business and hopes to grow into a management position. She calls attending MCC “one of the smartest decisions I’ve ever made.”

Li is an MCC Elementary Education student from Lexington. Having graduated in May 2024, she now plans to transfer to a four-year institution. New to the United States, Li is balancing her studies with being a mother and wife. She credits Middlesex for offering a “personalized education” that meets individual students’ needs.

“I am thankful MCC provides students like me with a fair, equitable, diverse and inclusive educational environment, but also helps student solve the problems they face in life, economics, psychology and other aspects,” Li said. “Being named to the All-MA team makes me feel proud, excited and grateful for the recognition. It’s a validation of my skills and dedication to my studies. It motivates me to keep pushing myself to get even better.”

From Lexington, Mian studied Computer Science at Middlesex. He plans to continue his studies at UMass Amherst before pursuing a master’s degree in artificial intelligence. The former treasurer of the Sustainability Club, he became president and worked in the Bedford campus community garden. At MCC, he benefitted from small class sizes and student support services, such as tutoring in the college’s Academic Centers for Enrichment.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my experience here at MCC,” Rian said. “I feel grateful that I’ve been selected for the All-MA team. I’m also proud for all the work I’ve put into my academic as well as the time I’ve put into the community here at MCC. I’m looking forward to meeting the other All-MA team members and listening to their different experiences.”

Since 1918, PTK – the international society for two-year colleges – has recognized and encouraged scholarship among community college students, while promoting the academic integrity of the associate degree program. Students with grade point averages of 3.5 or higher are invited to join PTK.

“We are so proud of our PTK student leaders and all of the amazing work they have done during their time at Middlesex and throughout the year,” said Maria McDuffie Clark, MCC’s Director of Student Engagement for Equity. “I am thrilled for Nicole, Lihong and Riam to celebrate their accomplishments at the State House and to have received the All-Massachusetts Academic Team honor.”
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MCC to Celebrate Commencement of 2024 Graduating Class5/22/20246/17/2024 10:06 AM
Middlesex Community College is excited to celebrate the college’s 52nd Commencement. The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 23 at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium, as well as with a live stream on YouTube by MCC’s Communication, Art & Design students.

“At MCC, the most important day for the college is witnessing our students walk across the stage at commencement,” said Phil Sisson, MCC’s President. “Graduation provides an opportunity for us to join together to celebrate each individual’s commitment to reaching their academic, professional and personal goals. All of our graduates have shown resiliency in completing their education and it is vital that we pay respect to the diversity and lived experiences of each and every learner. I am proud to preside over the college-wide event and hear from some of our amazing graduates, distinguished alum, and community members as we mark this special day.”

MCC students Megan Guros and Jennifer Laing will represent their classmates as this year’s commencement speakers. Guros is a Biotechnology major from Andover, while Laing is a Liberal Arts and Sciences major from Venezuela who now lives in Maynard.

Jim D’Agostino, formerly a Vice President at the TJX Companies, Inc. and now with D’Agostino Consulting and Keller Williams Realty North Central, will address the 2024 graduating class as the Distinguished Alum.

A diverse class in terms of backgrounds and experiences, the 2024 graduating class have made a number of accomplishments during their time at the college. The college will award 155 Associate in Arts, 611 Associate in Science, and 99 Certificates on commencement day.

The age range is 17 to 63, with graduates representing 107 Massachusetts cities and towns and 57 countries. There are 50 veterans, 10 Dual Enrollment high school graduates, 85 MCC employees, and 47 percent of the graduates are first generation students.

MCC held a Health Pinning Ceremony and Evening of Excellence Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, May 21 ahead of commencement. MCC’s health programs pinned 119 graduates, and 50 students received department awards for their achievements.

While eight students made the Commonwealth Commitment to attend a Massachusetts state four-year college or university, MCC’s Commonwealth Honors Program graduated 21 scholars, and 66 are members of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the national honor society for two-year colleges. Nicole Dionne Marques, Lihong Li and Rahim Mian were named to the 2023-2024 PTK All-Massachusetts Academic Team.

“MCC’s 2024 graduating class are a dynamic and talented group of students who are ready to continue on with their education, careers and futures,” said Leonard Russ, MCC’s Dean of Students. “We are proud of each of our graduates and have enjoyed helping them explore their options, discover their passions, and pursue their dreams. I look forward to watching them cross the stage on one of their most important days in their college experience, as well as seeing where their journeys lead them next."

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/graduation/ for more information on MCC’s 2024 commencement ceremony.
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MCC Hosts Women in IT Panel Discussion6/4/20246/13/2024 9:38 AM
To help students learn more about the Information Technology (IT) industry, Middlesex Community College hosted an IT and Cybersecurity panel on Wednesday, April 24. The event featured a panel of female professionals working in the field who discussed their educational journeys, interests and career paths.

When panelist Sokphaneath Taing, an MCC Cybersecurity graduate from Lowell, began her career in IT, the experience was challenging yet exciting. As an intern, she got used to a fast-paced and changing work environment with help from her mentors and coworkers.

“A supportive work environment that respects and encourages everyone’s contributions is significant,” Taing said. “Companies can create programs specifically for women like mentorship programs and professional development workshops to help them advance their careers.”

Panelist Maribel-Fuentes Torres, an MCC Cybersecurity student and IT Support for RSA Security, encourages women to take advantage of opportunities that organizations in the IT field offer.

“There is a vast amount of information to learn and understand so it is important to offer flexibility for working moms,” Torres said. “This allows us to contribute and build leadership.”

Panelist Adjoa Edzie, founder and CEO of Gruuvv, believes that improving representation in IT is important. She recognizes that female leaders can inspire other women to enter the field. Their participation can influence and help women progress in their careers.

“Initiatives like leadership training for women, policies that support work-life balance, and active recruitment and retention strategies can play a significant role,” Edzie said. “By creating a more inclusive culture that actively supports women's advancement, we can inspire a new generation to pursue careers in IT.”

Panelist Grace-Rebecca Mecha, Health Policy and Program Analyst for Public Consulting Group, wanted to work in IT to make a positive impact and develop new ideas. After almost a decade of work in a variety of IT roles, she found her place and felt more comfortable in the field.

“It was pretty interesting to figure out what my abilities were in the IT space,” Mecha said. “The best ways to learn them are by application and trial and error. Once you get over the learning curve, it is easier to recognize your strengths and opportunities for improvement and sharpen your skill set.”

Panelist Ama Edzie, Head of Product at Gruuvv, wants more workplaces to appreciate and respect women. When she got started in IT, the experience was difficult, but it led to growth.

“There were times I doubted myself,” Edzie said. “I had many situations where I felt less valued and unsupported because I was the only female of color. But with those challenges, there was excitement in being a part of change and helping others through technology. Each task became a chance to learn and build confidence in my abilities.”

Each panelist shared their experiences in IT, gave career advice, and answered questions in the Lowell Campus Cafeteria. After the panelists spoke, attendees had the opportunity to network and were served lunch.

John Mercado, an MCC Science and Cybersecurity student from Lawrence, appreciated how professional the panelists were. He enjoyed hearing them talk about their work experience and accomplishments. The panel also made him feel encouraged about his career pursuits.

“I learned to always ask questions and be willing to learn that mistakes are going to be made,” Mercado said. “Embracing those mistakes and making adjustments will lead me to having a bright future and continue moving forward.”

Marie Tupaj, MCC’s Dean of STEM, promoted the panel’s significance and impact on students.

“The panelists gave examples of resilience and creativity,” she said. “Their stories were applicable to everyone and relatable to minorities in tech fields. The event provided a way for the panelists and students to learn from each other.”
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Get Ahead and Register for MCC’s Fall Semester6/3/20246/12/2024 10:47 AM
At Middlesex Community College, new and returning students can plan ahead and set themselves up for success by registering for the Fall 2024 semester. Featuring flexible and affordable options, MCC guides students through exploring options, starting a new career, transferring to a four-year school, or upgrading skills.

“Although summer is a busy and fast-moving time for many, we are ready to assist students with making their fall plans now,” said Yohanka Tejada, MCC’s Interim Assistant Dean of Pathway and Academic Advising. “Those who register early get the best pick of classes, have time to organize their schedules to fit their needs, and meet with advisors. Doing so will put you in a great position to adjust to college life and start the fall off strong.”

MCC helps students fit education into their busy schedules with on-campus, online, hybrid and hyflex classes for over 80 programs. Students can also choose to take classes as part of the traditional 15-week semester or over two accelerated eight-week sessions.

MCC’s Mini-mesters provide the same content, academic standards, and number of instructional hours as courses scheduled during the traditional 15-week semester. Accelerated sessions allow students to finish credits faster, take classes over a shorter period of time, and balance their studies with other responsibilities.

To help students pay for college, Middlesex offers Financial Aid and Financial Wellness support, as well as access to scholarship and grant opportunities. Many of MCC’s programs also provide students with a chance to apply the knowledge they learn in classes to real-world experiences, including Learn and Earn, internships, Service-Learning, lab and clinicals, and networking sessions.

The Fall 2024 semester begins on Tuesday, September 3. While Fall Mini-mester I begins the same day, MCC’s Fall Mini-mester II will start later in the semester on Monday, October 28.

Over the summer, MCC will also offer a final five-week session starting on Monday, July 8.

“We have many options designed to meet your needs,” Tejada said. “Register now and get on the path to reaching your goals.”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ for more information and to register for classes.
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MCC Pins 119 Health Graduates from the 2024 Class5/29/20246/11/2024 11:02 AM
​Middlesex Community College celebrated the achievements of 119 graduates of the class of 2024 with a Health Pinning Ceremony on Tuesday, May 21 at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium. Gordana Marchio and Katie Matte addressed their classmates as the two student speakers this year.

“Being named a health pinning speaker is a tremendous honor and privilege,” Marchio said. “My hope is that my speech will be inspiring and motivating for others, especially those who may be facing their own challenges or contemplating their next steps in life.”

From Serbia and now living in Winchester, Marchio graduated from MCC’s Dental Hygiene program with highest honors and is one of two recipients of this year’s Dental Hygiene Award for Academic Excellence. Looking to re-enter the workforce, the mother of two chose to come to MCC because of the college’s strong reputation, high-quality programming, and opportunities for growth in and outside of the classroom.

At MCC, Marchio built upon her background in dental assisting, including as a tutor for the college’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE). She strengthened her skills through clinicals at the VA Bedford Hospital, Middlesex House of Corrections, and the D’Youville Life and Wellness Community. After MCC, she plans to work in private practice, continue her education to receive a master’s, and one day teach in the field.

Matte, of Dracut, graduated from MCC’s nursing program with high honors. She took evening and weekend classes to balance her studies with working a full-time job and raising two children. With a master’s in public health, she has worked in healthcare for over a decade, choosing to enter the nursing field to offer high-quality care to vulnerable populations.

MCC’s courses, professors and hands-on experiences provided Matte with a comprehensive understanding of how and why they care for patients in the nursing field. She had clinicals in long-term care, rehab, pediatrics, maternity, labor and delivery, geriatrics, psychiatry, public health and surgery. She has already accepted a role working in acute care at a local hospital and plans to pursue a master’s degree.

“It was important to represent my peers because they are all such impressive people,” Matte said. “I am excited to share our journey together and I’m so proud to be part of this amazing cohort of students. MCC is the launchpad I needed to transition into a second career as a nurse. It would not have been possible for me without a program structured like this, and I’ve found many local hospitals have so much respect for the education we get here.”

An honored tradition, the pinning emphasizes the knowledge, skills and attitudes of the graduates entering the fields. Graduates received ribbons of different colors representing their programs, which include Nursing, Dental Assisting, Dental Hygiene, Dental Laboratory Technology, Medical Assisting, Medical Laboratory Technology, Radiologic Technology, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, and the Academy of Health Professions.

MCC’s President Phil Sisson, Provost Arlene Rodríguez, Dean of Health Karen Townsend, and faculty and staff from all areas of the college joined the graduates’ families, friends and supporters to honor their pinning. Dawn Chandonnet, a 2001 alumna of the nursing program, spoke during this year’s pinning.

Currently working toward a doctorate in nursing practice journey, Chandonnet received a bachelor’s in nursing and a master’s as a clinical nurse educator. In her 24-year career, she has assisted in making changes in the nursing practice and onboarding new nurses. A member of the American Organization of Nursing Leadership, Organization of Nurse Leaders, and Sigma Theta Tao, she is a chair of councils within her organization.

“MCC prepared with skills, knowledge and opportunities to practice nursing,” Chandonnet said. “Attaining this degree opened so many amazing doors in my professional career. For that, I am truly grateful. I would encourage new graduates to continue reflecting on their why when choosing nursing as a profession. Having a purpose at the forefront of your thoughts as you grow on your professional and personal journey is important. It keeps you focused on what you are trying to achieve, and why!”

During the ceremony, graduates were called on stage individually to receive their pins from faculty of MCC’s health programs. Each program then recited a pledge to practice their new professions ethically, promote health for all, and advance their fields. A reception with family and friends followed the ceremony.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of our 2024 health graduates and witness them receive their pins,” Townsend said. “Throughout their time at MCC, the graduates have shown their determination, dedication and resiliency in honing their skills and improving their craft. As they progress into their fields, I know they will continue to make us proud as compassionate healthcare providers, future leaders and innovators of the industries in which they serve.”
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MCC Student Screens Film at Boston Independent Film Festival5/15/20246/10/2024 12:37 PM
​Middlesex Community College selected Communication student Donovan Meehan’s film “TRAEH” as the college’s submission to the 2024 Boston Independent Film Festival on May 4. From Concord, Meehan directed and edited the film, assisted by MCC students Phillip Nelsen and Abby Hamill.

“It feels really great to have my film in the festival and I am really looking forward to seeing it on the big screen,” Meehan said. “I am studying film after a long experience of not being able to find a career that suits me. I settled on my true passion.”

Meehan wrote and shot the film over the summer of 2023. Based on Instagram memes about Ryan Gosling characters, the film focuses on neo noir movies and features an ending plot twist to “flip the cliché on its head.”

“TRAEH” was also one of 29 films from five countries screened at the Lowell Film Festival on April 6. MCC co-hosted the first-ever event with UMass Lowell at MCC’s Academic Arts Center.

“The Lowell Film Festival was my first film festival that I have attended since starting my journey into the world of filmmaking,” Meehan said. “It was a really cool and exciting experience.”

MCC’s program has provided Meehan with various hands-on experiences to improve his knowledge and skills in the industry. In addition to working on his own projects, he has interned for the college’s Communication division by filming events and acting as a teaching assistant in classes.

He chose to come to Middlesex based on its convenient location, affordable prices, and on recommendation from his mother who is an alumna of MCC’s Dental Hygiene program. While he explored different subjects in his first year at the college, Meehan discovered his love of filmmaking thanks in part to professor and Chair of the Communication, Art & Design division Dr. Jennifer Bauer.

“When we met in my first semester of second year, Jen Bauer saw I had potential and took me under her wing,” Meehan said. “She helped me not only create fantastic pieces of work, but also allowed me to do what I am passionate about, which in turn makes the work that much better.”

After graduating from MCC, Meehan wants to continue his filmmaking with shorts and other projects. He is also working toward getting into the union for set design. His goal is to build connections and make his way up in the industry as he films his own projects on the side.

With plans to transfer to a state four-year institution, Meehan credits MCC for a “top-notch education” that helped him explore his passion.

“MCC has allowed me to grow my craft and expand my knowledge,” he said. “I have truly enjoyed my time at MCC and cannot see any other way that I would have come out in the same path if not for the school and the community it has given me.”
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MCC Commencement Speaker Thrived in MCC’s Learn & Earn Program5/21/20246/6/2024 11:09 AM
From childhood, Megan Guros, of Andover, has lived with a disability and a diagnosis of a rare disease that brought a life expectancy of 15 years. Medical advancements helped her survive, improved her quality of life, and inspired a passion for the field of biotechnology, which she pursued at Middlesex Community College. Guros is one of two graduation speakers representing the class of 2024 at MCC’s Commencement held on Thursday, May 23 at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium.

“It is an immense honor and profound responsibility to be selected as a commencement speaker,” Guros said. “Given the struggles I have experienced with my health, I doubted my ability to ever graduate. This opportunity allows me to reflect on our shared experiences and the resilience we've demonstrated throughout our educational journey. It's a platform to express gratitude, share insights, and inspire my classmates as we all prepare to embark on our next chapters.”

In MCC’s Learn and Earn Experience, Guros appreciated the “unique” opportunity to study while gaining relevant experience and supporting her family. Bringing firsthand knowledge to the company as a rare disease patient, Guros interned at Ultragenyx. She feels that the labs and classes as part of MCC’s Biotech program prepared her to be a productive member of her team working hands-on within the supply chain.

“The internship has greatly contributed to my education by offering me real-world industry experience,” she said. “This helps me to know the right questions to ask for further clarification and assists me in seeing how everything we are learning comes together in industry.”

One of the reasons Guros first chose to come to MCC was the diverse student body. She believes the “rich and vibrant learning environment” at the college provides an opportunity to work with and learn from people with different backgrounds, cultures and life experiences.

Faculty and staff have also made a big impact on Guros’s time at Middlesex. By creating a safe space in which to learn, Dr. Mariluci Bladon, MCC’s Professor & Chair of Biotechnology, helped Guros feel comfortable asking for assistance and pushing herself to succeed. Guros also has guidance in the TRIO Program for Student Achievement, including from director Jennifer Stach. This network of support allowed her to make the return to college, knowing she has built-in help as she navigates her college experience and any challenges that may arise.

“My experience at MCC has been transformative,” Guros said. “The faculty's engagement, the wealth of knowledge I have gained, and the unwavering support I have received have shaped my educational journey into one that is fulfilling and rewarding.

Guros was President of MCC's Biotech Club and of the student chapters of the New England Parenteral Drug Association and the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering, as well as a member of Phi Theta Kappa, MCC’s Commonwealth Honors Program, and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Graduating with highest honors, she is now studying at Northeastern University on a scholarship to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She credits MCC for helping to build a foundation for her future.

“I have found my path and I am excited again for the future,” she said. “MCC has helped me move forward in my life from a place of merely surviving to a course on which I am thriving. I am determined to do the biotech program proud and have a real impact in the industry.”
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Community of Support Helped Commencement Student Speaker Find Her Path5/21/20246/5/2024 11:08 AM
For Jennifer Laing, from Venezuela and now living in Maynard, the people of Middlesex Community College made a positive impact on her college experience. A Liberal Arts and Sciences major, Laing is one of two graduation speakers representing the class of 2024 at MCC’s Commencement held on Thursday, May 23 at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium.

“I am incredibly delighted to represent the student body at graduation,” Laing said. “The MCC community of faculty, students and staff members have made my experience here enriching, exciting and exalting. I hope I can deliver a message that can reciprocate their care and support.”

Laing is honored to have been asked to speak at graduation. From classmates to professors, she sees her speech as an opportunity to give back to the people who inspired her. Calling the MCC community “generous, resourceful and very special,” she appreciated taking advantage of all of the opportunities available to her at Middlesex in and outside of the classroom.

“I could not have anticipated the support I have received from faculty, peers and staff over the past two years,” Laing said. “I chose MCC because the school offers a great variety of online classes, but I stayed at MCC because every single human I have interacted with has impacted my journey in inspiring and encouraging ways.”

The support Laing found at Middlesex started with her first ever professor, Dr. Denise Marchionda. By experiencing a welcoming environment, Laing felt more comfortable beginning her academic journey. With Dr. Marchionda’s guidance, Laing also pushed herself harder to “reach my fullest potential.”

“She believed I could do great things here at MCC, and made me believe it too,” Laing said. “She continues to be a mentor as well as a source of motivation to keep going after my academic goals.”

When Laing first started at Middlesex, her goal was to earn a college education. Unsure of what she wanted to study or pursue for a career, Laing’s husband recommended she start with general education courses. Exploring a variety of subjects helped her find her passion. She also gained a “well-rounded foundation” to help her develop goals and a plan for the future.

An active community member at Middlesex, Laing enjoyed attending campus events and working as a writing tutor for MCC’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE). Graduating with highest honors, she is a member of MCC’s Commonwealth Honors Program and Phi Theta Kappa, the honors society for two-year schools.

As she looks forward to transferring to a four-year institution, Laing hopes to continue to use the knowledge, skills and confidence she found at Middlesex. At her new school, she plans to major in English and minor in Psychology.

Laing emphasizes the value of having a community of supportive employees and classmates dedicated to her growth and development. As she graduates and continues on with her education and into the workforce, she hopes to take what she has learned from the college and apply it to her new endeavors.

“Being a student at MCC has been a fantastic experience,” she said. “I have grown as a scholar, friend, mother and thinker because of my experiences and education here.”
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MCC to Close Out Spring 2024 “World of Music” with Faculty Performance5/20/20246/4/2024 11:37 AM
Middlesex Community College will close out the Spring 2024 “A World of Music” concert series with a performance by MCC faculty member Raley Beggs and Carl Straussner. The concert will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 2 at the MCC Concert Hall on the Bedford Campus.

"Carl and I are thrilled to deliver this program of acoustic sunshine to the MCC community,” Beggs said. “Working in tandem and true to our roots, ‘Duo du Sud’ zooms in on an eclectic mix of world music through the sonically intimate, binocular lenses of two guitars."

The guitarists will present a concert featuring western classical music and works by South African composers inspired by traditional African music. Duo du Sud seeks to revitalize and expand the guitar repertoire, performing concerts that are equal parts virtuosic and vibrant. Works by Robert Johnson, Johannes Kapsberger, Ali Farka Touré, and David Hewitt will be performed.

The Spring 2024 “World of Music” series included two performances by the Lowell Chamber Orchestra on Sunday, February 18 and Saturday, May 4; A Chopin Celebration on Sunday March 3; Duos and Trios for Oboe, Flute and Piano on Friday, April 5; and a Student Recital on Monday, April 22.

All concerts are free and open to the public.

MCC’s Concert Hall is located in Henderson Hall at 591 Springs Road in Bedford. Parking is available on-campus. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/worldofmusic/ for more information.
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MCC Communication Students Get Inside Look at Local Production Studio5/8/20246/3/2024 12:15 PM
In March, the Middlesex Community College Communication, Art and Design division participated in the Camera Operator Bootcamp hosted by Red Sky Studios with the Mass Production Coalition (MPC). The day-long experience allowed students to see and hear from professionals who work in various camera roles on productions.

“My friends and I want to collaborate more on film and video projects and this experience was a great way to see what efficient communication looks like and all the pieces involved to make the process as smooth as possible,” said Max Gofstein, an MCC Communication student from Lowell. “It was a lot to take in but was well worth the trip. The amount of people you meet [at these events] is immense and the opportunity to learn from professionals is one you don’t want to miss.”

Gofstein and classmates enjoyed learning about the different roles on set, as well as how to build camera rigs, frame shots, follow actors, and pull focus manually, among other skills. Throughout the day, the students engaged in breakout sessions, hands-on demonstrations, a career panel, and question and answer sessions.

Joining the students were MCC’s Director of Media Production François de Costerd, MCC’s Media Production Coordinator Jeff Caplan and part-time Communication employee – and MCC alumna – Cristina Rivera.

“Students were able to get firsthand experience with cinema equipment that is out of reach for 99 percent of schools,” de Costerd said. “In addition, being able to speak with film professionals directly was very exciting. It allows them to see what ‘being on set’ entails and find out what they like to do. Several of our students found their calling that day.”

As part of the MPC, Middlesex has more access to filmmakers, production companies, creative agencies and studios. MCC students interacted with industry professionals who worked on productions filmed in the area, such as “American Hustle,” “The Holdovers,” “Spirited,” “Defending Jacob” and “Little Women.”

This connection allows for more “experiential learning” opportunities that help students – and MCC’s program – advance.

“As I was leaving the studios, David Hartman – the Director of MPC – remarked to me how great a job we were doing with the program at MCC,” de Costerd said. “These opportunities are great for students to get a sense of the opportunities that exist for them outside of MCC, but there’s also plenty for them here at the college."
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