A few quick thoughts to end the week

Since Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, I guess that means six weeks more of winter. You wouldn’t know it with the beautiful weather we’ve had this week. Let’s hope Phil was wrong!

I wrote about the change in the tobacco-free board policy last week. Beginning Feb. 15, campus police will issue $15 tickets to violators. Florissant Valley’s efforts to enforce the college-wide tobacco free policy also includes efforts to help students and staff who would like to quit smoking. Our counseling services department provides a number of resources (most are free) and contact information to help those on the path to non-smoking. Most counselors also can work with students on the issue of ‘habit change’ which would include smoking addiction. Call 4252 to receive more information.

In the next week or so, you also will see more communications pieces publicizing the fine. We’ll have new signage inside buildings and bookmarks available at the library circulation desk and Campus Life. Students and staff also will receive email communication from the chancellor regarding the policy and fine. The district web site and Twitter account, as well as the Florissant Valley Facebook page, will have those same messages.

The African American History month kickoff event, hosted by our Student Government Association, was an inspiring start to this celebration. Wesley Bell, program coordinator for Legal Studies and Criminal Justice, gave a thoughtful presentation, the crowd was entertained by wonderful, talented musical and dance performers, and the Elijah Lovejoy presentation, from the Missouri History Museum was outstanding. I enjoyed seeing many students, faculty and staff present.

Tidbits

Congratulations to Karen Mayes and the folks in nursing! The accreditation team identified the STLCC District Nursing Program has met all standards and are recommending the maximum eight-year accreditation. The recommendation now goes to the Evaluation Review Panel and the Board of Commissioners.
Make sure to visit our brand new 50th Anniversary website and tell YOUR story. Pin yourself on our map and tell us where you’re at, what you’re doing and how STLCC impacted you.

This weekend, we’ll welcome the holiday for football fans – - the Super Bowl. Between the commercials and Madonna performing for halftime, two great teams compete. I’m thinking the New England Patriots will win – who are you rooting for?