News

Bear Sounds Call to Enlist Advocates For Students

(Released 8/24/10)

JAMESTOWN - A friendly bear presented a challenge to staff and faculty at a recent GTCC meeting.

Well, it was a "human kind of bear," who grabbed attention long enough to ask people to become special advocates for students in the college's Developmental Education program. An advocate is the student's "inside connection" who helps them through their college experience.

Many responded but at least 100 more volunteers are needed to become advocates for these students, according to college president Dr. Don Cameron.

As one of only 15 community colleges in the nation to receive Developmental Education Initiative grants last year, GTCC leaders started an advocacy program for at- risk students.

Presence of the bear at the faculty convocation helped Cameron and other college officials focus on the need for advocates.

"I strongly urge all faculty members to participate," Cameron said. He noted that 235 employees already have volunteered to be advocates for students, and another 100 volunteers are needed.

The bear's appearance provided the answer to why a series of "bear" e-mails had been sent earlier to staff members. Developmental Education instructor Susan Barbitta, author of the e-mails that featured a bear, was setting the stage for the appearance of the costumed "live" bear.

Barbitta's son Jordan, a student at Appalachian State University, was willing to help put a little fun into the process of luring volunteers. He agreed to be the friendly bear.

And he got the attention of those attending the convocation, including the college president. Several treats and prizes with bear themes were given to those attending the meeting.

Students will make a minimum of three contacts for assistance from their advocates during the semester. Each contact will involve about 10 to 20 minutes of the volunteer's time.

Last year, 192 GTCC employees worked with 821 students. The program has been changed and expanded this year to have more advocates available to help students.

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