The Teacher Effect

If you ever had a Wharton County Junior College instructor who made a difference in your life, now’s the time to publicly say thanks.

A new program – entitled “The Teacher Effect” – will provide alumni and current students with the opportunity to highlight the role a particular instructor played in their life. The purpose is to draw attention to those dedicated educators who oftentimes get overlooked, said Amanda Heard, the college’s Internet Marketing Coordinator and overseer of the project.

“Everybody had at least one teacher that had some kind of impact on them and we want to hear those stories,” Heard said. “There are so many unsung heroes out there. This is the acknowledgment teachers deserve but so seldom get.”

Students will share their stories by filling out an online form. The forms are currently posted on the college’s website – www.wcjc.edu – and a link is also provided on the WCJC Facebook page. Stories can also be emailed to Heard at: hearda@wcjc.edu

The stories must focus on a past or present WCJC instructor who taught at one of the college’s four campuses: Wharton, Bay City, Sugar Land or Richmond. The Office of Marketing and Communications will review submissions and determine which instructors will be featured.

The program began on March 31 and will run for the next few weeks. Heard is hoping for great participation. She believes it’s important to recognize the life-changing impact teachers can have. Her personal experience with an instructor who was particularly encouraging was the driving force behind “The Teacher Effect” concept.

“There’s some gems out there who deserve recognition,” she said. “It’s time for us to highlight those heroes among us.”

She further noted that WCJC instructors continue to garner a positive impact on the surrounding community. The college held its first classes in 1946.

“We are really proud of the faculty we have at the college. Many of our instructors have worked here for more than 20 years, which means a lot of lives have been positively touched,” Heard said. “There are instructors here who have made a huge difference, not just with one student but with generations throughout our community.”

WCJC Announces Winter Mini-Term and Spring 2014 Registration

Wharton CountyJunior College is registering for the Winter Mini-Term and the Spring 2014 Semester beginning November 1. Students may register on campus or on the web through December 13 for the Winter Mini-Term. Students may register through January 20 online for the Spring 2014 Semester and should visit the college’s website for on-campus registration dates.

Winter Mini-Term classes begin December 16, 2013 and Spring classes begin January 21, 2014.

Wharton County Junior College offers an associate in arts degree for those intending to transfer to a four-year institution, associate of arts in teaching degree, associate in applied science degrees, and certificate programs. Distance education courses are available through the web, and interactive television.

Students new to WCJC are encouraged to visit the college’s website at wcjc.edu to learn more about New Student Orientation sessions.

For more information about programs or registration, call 800.561.9252 or 979.532.4560 for the Wharton campus, 281.243.8447 for the Sugar Land campus, or 281.239.1500 for the WCJC Richmond Campus. The college also offers classes at the Bay City campus.

New Board Member

An appreciation reception to recognize WCJC Trustee Phyllip Stephenson for sixteen years of service was held Jan. 3 at the Hutchins Memorial Center. Amy Rod, of El Campo, was nominated by Stephenson to replace him in board position 4. The board unanimously voted to accept the nomination and Rod took the oath of office. Stephenson recently was elected as a member of the Texas House of Representatives. He resigned as a member of the WCJC Board of Trustees in order to take office for his newly elected position.

WCJC Receives National Recognition

Wharton County Junior College has received the annual Merit Award from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) for achieving a 90% or higher graduate pass rate on the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) examination for cycle of August 1, 2011 through July 31, 2012. Graduates obtaining national certification as a CST demonstrate by examination understanding of the basic competencies for safe patient care on the operating room. The CST is widely recognized in the health care community as the foremost credential for surgical technologists in the nation. The CST is required for employment within many local, state and national health care organizations.

According to NBSTSA Chief Executive Officer Ron Kruzel, the NBSTSA has a 40 year history in CST examination development. The CST examination is the only fully accredited examination by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) for surgical technologists in the nation. NCCA accreditation assures that the CST examination meets stringent standards of examination development and administration. Certification as a surgical technologist exhibits professional pride, the desire to be recognized for mastery of surgical competencies, and most importantly an ongoing commitment to quality patient care.
There are criteria that a surgical technologist must meet in order to qualify to take the CST examination. For an application and information about the CST examination or about the NBSTSA, please go to the NBSTSA website at www.nbstsa.org, email cara@nbstsa.org or call 1-800-707-0057.

New Educational Benefits Now Available For Veterans At WCJC

Recent legislation now provides older, unemployed veterans with 12 months of educational assistance when they enroll in a community college program that trains for a high demand career. Because there is a limit to the number of participants, Wharton County Junior College is urging qualified veterans to apply now.

Richard Hyde, the college’s director of financial aid, said the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP) is available to qualified, unemployed veterans who are at least 35 but not yet 60 years old, and who are not eligible for other VA education benefit programs. Details are available at benefits.va.gov/vow.

Each semester WCJC serves hundreds of military veterans and their children, thanks to the availability of educational assistance benefits. Some of the most popular programs include the Post-9/11 GI Bill, also known as Chapter 33, and Texas Senate Bill 639, also called the Hazlewood Exemption. Information about these programs may be found at gibill.va.gov and collegeforalltexans.com.

In addition, WCJC may grant credit for military training or coursework, if the material covered in the military school is comparable to the material taught in the WCJC course. Individuals who wish to have their military transcript evaluated for possible credit must contact the Registrar’s Office to initiate the review process. WCJC department heads or division chairs will make the final determination on whether credit may be granted and for which course or courses. For additional information, please visit wcjc.edu and type “military credit” into the search box, or call the Admissions and Registration office at 800.561.9252, ext. 6303.

WCJC Adds Degree Program in Computer Simulation and Game Development

In response to student and employer demand, Wharton County Junior College is now offering an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Computer Simulation and Game Development. The two-year program will prepare students for entry-level employment in the field of gaming and simulation in industries such as healthcare, law enforcement, military, advertising and others.

“This program will focus on the programming side of computer simulation and game development, rather than design, because our industry advisers say there are more job opportunities in this area,” said Donna Schilling, head of the WCJC Computer Science Department.

WCJC developed the new program in partnership with the University of Houston-Victoria and the University of Houston. Graduates of the WCJC program can easily transfer to UHV, taking coursework at the UH Sugar Land campus, to complete a bachelor’s degree in digital gaming and simulation. The University of Houston is developing a graduate level program in gaming and simulation.

Students are often surprised to find that advanced math skills are required to be successful in computer simulation and game design.

“Making moving objects look realistic requires a lot of trigonometry and physics,” said Schilling, noting that these two courses are among WCJC’s required core courses for the AAS degree.

This fall, along with general education courses, students will have the opportunity to enroll in the Introduction to Game Design and Development class (GAME 1303) at WCJC’s Sugar Land campus. This course covers topics such as storytelling, game story theory, building characters, the steps of a game concept and careers in the gaming industry.

The new computer simulation and gaming program will expose students to a broad range of simulated training environments. Software programs they will use include Adobe® Creative Suite® and Autodesk® Entertainment Creation Suite.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not yet collect career data specifically for software programmers in the video game industry. However, the BLS does report the 2010 median annual salary for computer programmers as $71,380 and for animators as $58,510. In addition, a conference of game developers found the average earnings in 1998 for game programmers with more than one year of experience was $59,127.

For more information about the WCJC Computer Simulation and Game Development degree program, visit wcjc.edu or call the computer science department at 800.561.9252, ext. 6394.

Upcoming Board Election

The election of three seats on the Wharton County Junior College Board of Trustees will be held on May 12, and WCJC district residents can cast their ballots through early voting beginning April 30.  Early voting locations, dates and times are as follows: Wharton Civic Center Duncan Auditorium 1924 N. Fulton Wharton April 30, 2012 – May 4, 2012 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 7 – 8, 2012 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. El Campo EMS Bldg. 200 N. Merchant El Campo April 30 – May 4, 2012 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 7-8, 2012 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. East Bernard Library 746 Clubside Dr. East Bernard April 30 – May 4, 2012 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 7-8, 2012 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Old Needville Firehouse 3115 Richmond St. April 30 – May 4, 2012 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. May 7-8, 2012 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Election Day voting on May 12, 2012 will include the above listed locations and the Glen Flora Fire Station located at 127 Bridge Ave. in Glen Flora. Election Day voting will be held from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at all locations.

WCJC presents "Perspectives" Alumni Art Show

Alumni of the Wharton County Junior College art program will display their original works from April 3 through 27 at the WCJC Art Gallery located in room 109 of the Duson-Hansen Fine Arts Building on the Wharton campus. The college will host an opening reception for the “Perspectives” alumni art show on Tuesday, April 3 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. The reception and mixed media art exhibit are free and open to the public.

“WCJC has a strong tradition in the visual arts,” said Jess Coleman, WCJC art instructor. “Our students receive a strong foundation to continue their studies at the university level and pursue art careers. This show is a small example of the success of our alumni.”

WCJC alumni artists in the show include Diana Atchetee, Avery Espinoza, Mary Beth Langston and Melanie Nickolyn.

Atchetee, a 2002 graduate of WCJC, has been a self-employed professional artist for more than nine years. She graduated summa cum laude with a B.F.A. in Studio Art, specializing in painting, from Texas State University in 2005. Her art displays flora and fauna in relation to human emotions and traits. Last December she was invited to exhibit in the Florence Biennale in Italy. In addition, a film, “When Angels Sing,” starring Willie Nelson and currently in production, features one of Atchetee’s paintings.

Espinoza, who completed his studies at WCJC in 2006, enjoys telling stories with his art through the use of personal symbolism. He served as an electriciansmate in the U.S. Navy from 1997 until 2003, completing three Gulf tours and achieving the rank of Petty Officer 2nd class. Espinoza graduated summa cum laude with a B.F.A. in Advertising and Graphic Design from Sam Houston State University (SHSU) in 2010. He is self-employed and recently completed the logo and identity for SHSU’s new James & Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center.

Langston, a 2007 graduate of WCJC, believes color expresses her state of mind in her artwork. She earned a B.F.A. in Painting and Drawing from Sam Houston State University in 2011. While there, she exhibited in various shows such as “Follow the Black Rabbit,” “We Art Here” and “The Human Form.” She took Best in Show at “We Art Here,” juried by Kat Black and curated by the SHSU Student Art Association. Langston currently resides in Spring, Texas where she shares her passion for art with those around her.

Nickolyn, a 2004 graduate of WCJC, loves observing people and carries a sketchbook wherever she goes. The Wharton native graduated cum laude from Texas State University with a B.F.A. in 2008. She currently is assistant manager of The Bazaar, a small boutique in Austin, Texas. There she uses her artistic skills to assist musicians, actors and other performing artists in buying and using theatrical/special effects makeup, wigs, costumes and the like. She is also working on her portfolio to enter graduate school.

“Perspectives” can be viewed through April 27 in the WCJC Art Gallery from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. weekdays, excluding holidays.

For additional information about the alumni art show, or the art classes offered at WCJC, contact the WCJC Fine Arts Department at 979.532.6300 or 1.800.561.9252, ext. 6300.

WCJC To Honor Texas State Representatives Howard and Zerwas

Reception slated for Tuesday, Nov. 22

WHARTON, TEXAS – Wharton County Junior College will honor Texas State Representatives Charlie Howard and John Zerwas, M.D., for their continued support of higher education on Tuesday, Nov. 22 at 11:30 a.m. in the Pioneer Student Center on the college’s Wharton campus. This special event is open to the public by calling or emailing a reservation 24 hours in advance.

Rep. Howard (R-District 26) has represented WCJC since taking office in 1995. His district covers eastern Fort Bend County. Rep. Howard played a key role in establishing WCJC’s Richmond and Sugar Land campuses. Earlier this fall, he announced he would not seek re-election in 2012, but will serve the remainder of his term until January 2013.

Rep. Zerwas (R-District 28) serves Wharton and Waller Counties and western Fort Bend County. He has represented WCJC since taking office in 2007. Because Rep. Zerwas has served one of the fastest growing districts in the state, redistricting means he will no longer represent Wharton and Waller Counties. Texas Monthly magazine has twice named Rep. Zerwas as one of the "Ten Best Legislators" in Texas for his work during the 81st and 82nd Legislative Sessions.

WCJC Director of Marketing and Communications Zina Carter said, “Wharton County Junior College is very appreciative of the more than 20 years of combined service by Representatives Howard and Zerwas. They understand the issues faced by higher education and specifically by our four college campuses and two extension centers.”

To join WCJC representatives in expressing appreciation for their contributions to higher education, please RSVP to cherylm@wcjc.edu or call 979.532.6322.

The WCJC Wharton campus is located at 911 Boling Highway in Wharton, Texas. Directions to the campus, including a detailed map, can be found at wcjc.edu. A map of the campus is available at http://www.wcjc.edu/about_n/maps.asp. 

Auditions for 'Almost, Maine'

The WCJC Theatre Department is pleased to announce open auditions for the popular romantic comedy by John Cariani, “Almost, Maine”,  November 21 and 22 at 2:00 pm in the Horton Foote Theater. Anyone may attend and the auditions will consist of reading sides from the script. For more info about the production, script, or auditions, contact Greg McLarty by email at  mclartyg@wcjc.edu or by phone at (979) 532-6397.

To read a synopsis of the play, see past production photos and other information visit almostmaine.com.

Free Tutoring

WCJC Offers FREE tutoring for students at the Learning Assistance Centers. If you are having trouble in class visit the tutoring page at wcjc.edu to get full information on tutoring times and locations.

Alumni Mixer

The Wharton County Junior College Alumni Association will hold a Mixer and Wharton Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting on Tuesday, October 11, 2011 from 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. in the Duson-Hansen Fine Arts Building on the Wharton Campus. Refreshments will be served. The WCJC Jazz Band will perform at 7 p.m. in the Horton Foote Theatre. For more information call 979-532-6322.

No More Bookstore Vouchers!

No need to go to the Business Office to get bookstore vouchers, just go straight to the campus bookstore. 


Bookstore credit allows students to get their books and supplies from their local Wharton County Junior College Campus bookstore and have the charges applied to their student account against financial aid and/or scholarships.

Starting Aug. 22, scholarship and financial aid and students can charge campus bookstore purchases to their student accounts and have the purchase amount deducted from their refund.


To learn more about WCJC Bookstore Credit, visit http://www.wcjc.edu/admin_offices_n/Business_Office/Bookstore_Credit.asp

CHECK your WCJC Student e-Mail!

Don't miss critical student information! Every student now has a WCJC Student e-Mail address for official college communication. Learn how to activate your account by visiting www.wcjc.edu and clicking on the WCJC connect button. Students are responsible to check their WCJC Student e-Mail account regularly for important information.

WCJC connect

WCJC connect , a student guide to online operations, is now available on wcjc.edu. Students can now view tutorials and FAQs on Student e-Mail, Online Services and student accounts in one convenient location. Visit the college website and click on WCJC connect to get started.

We've Gone GREEN!

Class schedules are now online, saving trees and reducing operating costs. Access the Fall 2011 class schedule now at wcjc.edu. A limited number of printed schedules will be available on each campus, but only through the production of the Summer 2012 schedule. These will be available in reception, student services, registration and financial aid office areas.

Tuition Increase

Wharton County Junior College Tuition Increase 

Beginning Fall 2011 

Wharton County Junior College is announcing an increase in tuition and fees beginning with the Fall 2011 semester. The following rates will be adopted:

•  An increase from $36/semester hour to $46/semester hour ($10/semester hour) to the General Services Fees,
•  A room increase from $500/semester to $600/semester ($100/semester) for students residing in Mullins Hall,
•  A room increase from $500/semester to $600/semester ($100/semester) for students residing in Brooking Hall,
•  A room increase from $500/semester to $700/semester ($200/semester) for students residing in Frankie Hall,
• An increase from $100 to $200 in the dormitory deposit for all dormitory students, and
•  An increase from $70 to $130 in testing fees for students registered in the Fire Academy.

Prepare for Success: New Student Orientation with Parent Sessions

Are you prepared for success? There's a lot you need to know when starting a college career and WCJC wants to help you make a smart start with new student orientation. All new students who are beginning WCJC in the fall are encouraged to attend.

Students will have opportunities to:

• meet future classmates
• learn tips for success
• get hands on training with online services 
• register early for fall classes 

Parent sessions will also be held during new student orientation to give parents tips for supporting their child's transition from high school to college. Topics in these sessions include:

• Communication with parents about student records
• Progress
• Attendance
• Financial aid matters (ie: navigating the processes for your family and understanding the terms of financial aid) 
• and tips on how to be successful 

Orientation sessions will be held on June 23 at the Sugar Land campus, June 28 at the Richmond campus, and June 30 at the Wharton campus.

Students can register to attend orientation by submitting the online registration form on the college website. Start smart by signing up today.

Criminal Minds Seminar at WCJC

The Wharton County Junior College Department of Public Safety Training will host national trainer and criminal investigator Marx Howell for a three day training seminar in advanced criminal investigative analysis. 

The course will be held June 13-15 at WCJC’s Sugar Land campus and is approved for TCLEOSE and other training credit. The seminar costs $250 and registration is open through June 10.

David Clayton, WCJC director of public safety training, said the course is designed to provide law enforcement officials with advanced training to understand the behavior behind sex crimes, violence, serial offenders and homicides. The concepts presented will deal with the operational and investigative perspective, not a clinical diagnosis perspective.

Howell is a 32-year veteran of the Texas Department of Public Safety and has been in law enforcement for nearly 50 years. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, as well as Dr. Martin Reiser’s Law Enforcement Hypnosis Institute in Los Angeles. Since 1985, he has served as vice-chairman and chairman of the Cold Case Review Team, sponsored by the Sheriffs’ Association of Texas. This group assists law enforcement agencies in unsolved sexual assault and homicide cases.

Students can download the registration form, complete it and fax it to (979) 532-6541. For more information please contact WCJC Public Safety Training at (979) 532-6554.

Pocket the Savings

Start smart your summer at WCJC and pocket the savings! Due to anticipated state funding cuts many colleges and universities may increase tuition rates this fall. Beat the increase, enroll in a summer course and put your savings toward next semester's tuition.

For course, program, registration, and semester information, visit www.wcjc.edu or call 800-561-WCJC (9252)