September 2023
The New. The Moves. The Returns!
Highlights
Where Is Everyone?
If you had been away from campus for the summer, you might have noticed quite a different campus in August than the one you left last May. While the reason for this is a lot of improvement, it might be a bit frustrating to find everything and everybody. Thankfully, there’s a handy section of our website that will keep you up-to-date on where to find your favorite campus services. Check back regularly as it will be updated as new changes take place!
New Faces. Who 'Dat?
It's Baaaaaaaaack!
After what seemed like an eternity of being a foodless campus, the dining area has finally re-opened. The bright new space is located on the first floor of the WDC, and once again features Subway and a Starbucks. (While the coffee served is Starb's brand, it’s not an official franchise so you unfortunately can’t use your stars here. But it’s still a good spot for your latte fix!) Microwaves and vending machines can also be found here. Kudos to Facilities on this beautiful new space!
The Return of Recycling
It’s news you’ve been waiting for. And now it’s here. The blue recycling bins around campus are no longer decorative. That’s right – campus recycling is back! Stay tuned for more information from facilities in the coming weeks.
Oh the Places You Can Go! (Even If You Stay Right Here)
You can go far. You can go near. You can even stay right here. You can pay a little for what others pay a lot. You can receive a $4000 scholarship jackpot.
For years Heartland has made sure the transfer process to local 4-year schools was easy and convenient. Now, we can add a new university destination to the list for Heartland students — and an added financial bonus. Last month President Cornille and Southern Illinois University Carbondale Chancellor Austin A. Lane signed a new transfer agreement for the Saluki Step Ahead program. Qualified HCC students will earn an associate degree at Heartland and be able to seamlessly transfer to SIU to earn their bachelor's degree remotely and at a lower cost.
Our students should like this quite a bit. We think the new option will be quite a hit!
Running for a Reason
Course Heroes
Two HCC faculty members were among 52 recipients of Teaching Grants for Digital Learning from Course Hero. Dr. Kim McHale will use the grant to investigate both the opportunities and pitfalls of using generative artificial intelligence to learn math. Students will work in pairs or small groups for this project and will be given credit to generate questions, practice with other generative AI programs, and determine the role of AI in learning calculus/mathematics. The grant will pay for AI apps and programs the students will be investigating.
Stephanie Kratz created a digital resource kit featuring microlearning lessons for Liberal Arts and Social Sciences faculty on managing stress related to faculty burnout. The kit, called Snapshots of Burnout Management, will use the 7taps micro-learning app to send mini-lessons to faculty including case studies, invitations to engage with colleagues, quick strategies for immediate implementation, videos, and visuals. Kratz was also a recent guest on Dr. Luke Hobson's podcast where she discussed faculty burnout...and maybe a little bit about Star Wars too.
Spinning a Good Yarn
Croch-hey there! Are you looking for a stress-relief activity? Want to hang out with some skein-dalous colleagues? Look no further than the Heartland Knit and Crochet Group! Whether you’re a seasoned yarn crafter or just a beginner, the group welcomes you to join them on Wednesdays from 2:30-3:30 in the adjunct office ICB 2402. Take a late lunch and get hooked on this fun group. Contact Julie Fraser for questions.
Raise a Glass
Train and Stay Safe
As a new academic year kicks off, it’s a good time to familiarize yourself with procedures, protocols, and trainings available to you. One newly-available item is the Standard Response Protocol training. The purpose of this training is to inform you of how the College will respond to certain emergency situations on campus. You might have noticed the new related Standard Response Protocol laminated flyers around campus as well. Take a few moments to do the training so you’re well informed!
Still to come...
Albatross
The exhibition, Albatross, will be showing at the Joe McCauley Gallery through October 3rd.
Heartland Haunted Harvest 5K
The fun run and family event will take place October 29 beginning at noon.
Random Knowledge to Make You Just a Little Smarter
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Starbucks offering the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte, but until 2015, the drink didn’t contain any pumpkin at all.
Let's Get Social
That's all for now. In the meantime, check out our Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the latest happenings. Spread the love and share our stuff on your own pages.