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Ancilla College News - Current Events
July, August, September

Ancilla College Appoints Soliman as Coordinator
September 29, 2009
Ancilla College has appointed Sam Soliman as Coordinator of Testing, Supplemental Instruction, and ADA Compliance, effective August 21, 2009.

Soliman recently completed his masters in both Arts and Divinity at Yale University, and also holds a master’s degree in Public Affairs from Indiana University.

Prior to his studies at Yale, Soliman oversaw 30 different non-profit organizations in Elkhart, Marshall, Saint Joseph, and Kosciusko counties that provided public health education, as well as violence and substance abuse prevention education.

Among his main responsibilities, Soliman will be responsible for ensuring that Ancilla College provides proper accommodations for students with disabilities, coordinating tutoring, and proctoring both class and college placement tests.

“I like the small college, down-to-earth atmosphere, and the willingness of Ancilla College to help others” said Soliman.  “I started out at a small college and that helped me.  I want to help others move on and accomplish their goals in life.”

Dr. Joanna Blount, Dean of Academic and Student Services, expressed her pleasure in welcoming Soliman to Ancilla College

“Sam Soliman brings a wealth of experience and numerous credentials to his position as Coordinator of Testing, Supplemental Instruction, and ADA Compliance,” said Blount.  “He has worked with students of all ages in a variety of settings.  We are glad he is a part of Ancilla College.”

Admissions Counselor Lopez-Diaz Returns to Ancilla
September 24, 2009
Ancilla College announced that Nelson Lopez-Diaz has been re-hired as an Admissions Counselor, effective Sept. 22, 2009.

A graduate of Ancilla, Lopez-Diaz previously served in the same position in 2007 and 2008. 

As a student, the Knox resident double majored in Criminal Justice and Behavioral Science, completing both degrees by May 2008.

Lopez-Diaz accepted the position of jail officer with Starke County Sherriff’s Department in August 2008, where he was responsible for working with and processing inmates.  Gradually, however, he began to miss working at his alma mater.

“I enjoyed the atmosphere, the faculty, and the environment of Ancilla College,” said Lopez-Diaz.  “I enjoyed being a student here and working here.

“Now that I realize what a career in criminal justice entails, I know that’s not the line of work I want to do.  This is where I want to be, and this is what I want to do.”

Erin Alonzo, Director of Admissions at Ancilla College, expressed her pleasure in welcoming Lopez-Diaz back to campus.

“Welcoming an alumnus back to Ancilla College as an Admissions Counselor provides us with an employee that understands the mission of the College and has the passion to serve the students,” said Alonzo.  “Nelson’s past experiences at Ancilla will prove beneficial as he serves as a resource to the counties South and East of the College. 

“Nelson was an outstanding student and I am confident he will prove to be an asset to Ancilla College in his role as Admissions Counselor.”

Ancilla College Holds 5th Annual Constitution Day
September 17, 2009
Ancilla College hosted its fifth annual Constitution Day, a forum designed for students to ask questions and learn more about the Constitution of the United States.

Held in the Gerald J. Ball Library, students watched a short video clip from “Key Constitutional Concepts” and participated in an open question and answer session with moderator Dr. Tom Buchanan, Chair of the Division of History, Behavioral Science, and Business.

The event was held in part to keep the college in accordance with federal law, which states that any college receiving federal aid must put on an event related to the constitution once each year. 

Lunch was provided to those in attendance.

“I think to protect our rights and be good citizens, you must know something about the constitution beyond the fact that it exists,” said Buchanan.  “I’m amazed it’s still around after all this time.  When it was written, we were a country of about four million people.  Now we are a nation of 305 million, and we still use the same document today.”

First Annual ‘Tri Ancilla’ Sprint Triathlon Deemed a Success
September 14, 2009
Seventy-five participants from Chicago, Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Valparaiso, South Bend, Warsaw, and other neighboring cities converged on the grounds of Ancilla College and the PHJC Ministry Center for the inaugural Tri Ancilla sprint triathlon event on Sunday, Sept. 6.

Men and women, ranging in age from 15 to 74, participated in a 500 yard swim, 11 mile bike ride, and a 3.1 mile run that toured the Donaldson-based campus and its surrounding areas.

“We could not have pulled off such a successful first-time event without the assistance of a dedicated planning committee and so many volunteers,” said Todd Zeltwanger, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement at Ancilla College.  “We look forward to hosting this event on an annual basis and are excited about the opportunity to showcase Ancilla College and the PHJC Ministry Center to first-time visitors of Donaldson.”

Zeltwanger made special mention of the efforts of Plymouth residents Brad Serf and Don Allen, who Zeltwanger referred to as “key components of the planning committee.” 

He also offered his thanks to the four event sponsors – The Learning House, Miller Nor-Cen Insurance, Gibson Insurance, and the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ.

Prizes were awarded to the top three male and female finishers, as well as the youngest and oldest participants. 

The top three male finishers were David Hernandez (Fort Wayne, IN), Keith Higginbottom (Elkhart, IN), and Ryan Taylor (St. Joseph, MI). 

On the women’s side, the top three finishers were Kathryn Touloukian (Peru, IN), Jenna Davis (St. Joseph, MI), and Cassandra Lemberg (Fort Wayne, IN). 

The youngest participant was 15-year-old Scott Osborne (Indianapolis, IN) and the oldest was 74-year-old William Pauley (Valparaiso, IN).

Ancilla College Holds 11th Annual United Way Pledge Drive
September 10, 2009
It’s an image most are unlikely to forget.

A college faculty member calling himself “The Big Kahuna” gets a running start, summersaults over an “Aloha” sign, and cannonballs into a lake in the middle of September.

John Gough wouldn’t have it any other way.

Gough, the Assistant Professor of Business at Ancilla College, takes the dive into Lake Galbraith each year as a way to signal the beginning of the United Way Pledge Drive at Ancilla. 

“It’s always a fun time when you can share some camaraderie with faculty, staff, and students in pursuit of a good cause,” said Gough, who is in his 11th year of helping organize the event.  “It’s rewarding to see the involvement of students in furthering the mission of the College.”

Along with Sharon Blubaugh (Ancilla College Registrar) and Ann Fitzgerald (Director of Nursing), Gough helped organize the theme for this year’s event, entitled “Go Hawaiian”.  The theme included the decorating of halls, Hawaiian music, and a limbo contest for all in attendance.  It is the hope of the organizers that the week-long pledge drive will raise $3,775 for United Way.

“The three of us wanted to involve the students in a way that they would appreciate the values of Ancilla College and the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, as well as helping the underserved,” said Gough.

Gough wasn’t alone in his jump into Lake Galbraith, either.  Taking the plunge with him were Todd Zeltwanger, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, and Tom Nowak, Maintenance.

After diving in, the three were tied to a boat that held seven “Hawaiian Princesses”, including Sr. Marlene Ann (PHJC), Sr. Virginia Kampwerth (PHJC), Sr. Judith Diltz (PHJC), Diana Caldwell (Executive Assistant to the President), Tai Duncan (Assistant to the Dean of Academic and Student Services), Fitzgerald and Blubaugh.  The three worked together to pull the princesses back to shore.

“It’s just gratifying to do this every year with a different theme,” said Gough.  “Charitable giving can be a fun experience as well as rewarding.”

Ancilla College Announces Sharp Increase in Enrollment
August 25, 2009
Ancilla College has announced a sharp increase in enrollment numbers for the upcoming fall semester.

There are currently 587 students registered for courses, an 11.6% increase over the 526 who were registered a year ago at the Donaldson-based campus.

“Ancilla College worked diligently with prospective and continuing students this past spring and summer to assist in obtaining the maximum financial aid for each student,” said Dr. Ron May, Ancilla College President.  “The enrollment numbers at the beginning of the semester are a reflection of that work.  We are excited about the opportunity to serve each student who comes to Ancilla College.”

Erin Alonzo, Director of Admissions, expressed her sincere pleasure in the growth of the Ancilla student body.

“Students continue to receive the highest level of service at Ancilla College,” said Alonzo.  “This year it has been our pleasure to serve this influx of students and help them achieve their educational goals. Students can feel confident that they will receive the personal attention needed for them to be successful. We look forward to continuing to serve the local communities.”

Ancilla College to Offer Qualified Medication Aide Course
August 14, 2009
Ancilla College has announced that it will be offering a course for those looking to earn certification as a Qualified Medication Aide (QMA).

The course, which begins September 9, will be held on Wednesdays from 5-10 p.m. EDT and will be taught by Mrs. Sue Clark – RN BSN.

According to Ann Fitzgerald, Director of Nursing, QMA certification enables an individual to pass medications and conduct supervised treatments.  Those who earn QMA certification find employment in long term care facilities and assisted living areas.

Those interested in the course must already have earned their Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification, have a minimum of 1000 hours experience, and be currently employed.  Students must be able to read and write in English and be able to perform basic mathematical calculations.  Other guidelines also apply.

Classes for QMA certification will consist of a 40-hour practicum and 60 hours in the classroom.  These classes are only for certification and do not have any college credits attached.

“This is a great opportunity to expand and build on the knowledge of the CNA,” said Fitzgerald.  “The QMA is one example of how only 100 hours of education can advance your career in healthcare and works well for students who have limited time to advance their education.”

Interested persons are encouraged to contact Mrs. Fitzgerald for more information at (574) 936-8898 Ext. 379 or visit QMA Guidelines by clicking here.

Ancilla College Will Help Students Cover Indiana Grants Shortfall and Continues to Accept Enrollment Applications
August 10, 2009
Ancilla College has announced plans to increase its students financial aid grants program to assist students whose financial aid award was affected by the recent cut in funds from the State Student Assistance Commission of Indiana (SSACI). 

While SSACI had originally estimated that grants to eligible students would be cut by 6% to 8%, it announced at its July 17, 2009 meeting a 31% cut in the “cap” award.  Depending on individual circumstances, students will see a decrease in SSACI award eligibility of at least 31%; some students will lose their entire eligibility for a SSACI award.

To assist its students during this period, and to continue making Ancilla College an affordable college choice, Ancilla is planning to allocate up to $250,000 in additional student aid, including the creation of a text-book purchase program for eligible students.  Partial funding for this expansion of student aid will be supported by a grant from the Independent College of Indiana.

“The announcement of this significant decrease in Indiana financial aid for those who can least afford to lose any financial support comes at a very challenging time for our students,” said Dr. Ron May, President of Ancilla College.  “We will do all we can as an organization and college community to help our students through this very difficult situation.”

The college continues to accept enrollment applications for fall semester and has seats available in most classes. 

For more information, please contact the Ancilla College admissions office at 574-936-8898, extension 330.

Ancilla College and Franklin University Announce Partnership
July 21, 2009
Ancilla College and Columbus, Ohio-based Franklin University have announced a recent partnership offering students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree by combining on-campus courses at Ancilla College with online courses through Franklin University.

Students who earn their associate’s degree from Ancilla College will have the opportunity to complete “bridge” courses at Ancilla College while simultaneously taking online classes through Franklin University to complete their bachelor’s degree. 

Majors will be available in 24 different fields, including Healthcare Management, Accounting, and Business Forensics.  Students will also be able to pursue an MBA and Masters of Science in Marketing and Communication online.

Dr. Joanna Blount, Dean of Academic and Student Services at Ancilla College, expressed her enthusiasm with Ancilla entering such a partnership.

“The articulation agreement with Franklin University provides an opportunity for our students to continue their education while remaining in their local community,” said Blount.  “Ancilla College is excited to be a part of the Community College Alliance, which has partnered with 252 colleges in 32 states.  We are pleased to be a part of an alliance that enhances access students have to higher education in our area.”

According to administrators at Franklin University, adults have responded enthusiastically to the convenient online format and the ability to fit classes into their daily schedule. 

Students will have the benefit of belonging to two schools at one time. They can access Franklin’s resources in addition to the resources at Ancilla College. Franklin’s resources include academic advising, a help desk and a library system. Each student also is assigned a Student Services Associate who provides support and guidance by answering questions about transcripts, financial aid or even how to purchase textbooks.

Ancilla College Hosts New Student Orientation
July 15, 2009
A standing room-only crowd was in attendance as Ancilla College hosted New Student Orientation on Thursday, July 9.

Students and parents from throughout the local community were able to learn about student activities and athletics, register for classes, and receive new student identification cards and parking passes.

Guest speakers during the event included Dr. Ronald May (Ancilla College President), Sr. Carleen Wrasman, PHJC (Coordinator of Mission Integration and Campus Ministry), Rev. Dr. Sam Boys (Coordinator of Pastoral Ministry), Kathy Mills (Director of Financial Aid), Erin Alonzo (Director of Admissions), and Gene Reese (Director of Athletics and Student Development).

“We were extremely pleased and excited about the tremendous turnout we had,” said Sarah Lawrence, Assistant Director of Admissions.  “It was a great opportunity for students to meet with faculty and staff at the College and help familiarize themselves with all Ancilla College has to offer.”

Ancilla College will hold their next Placement Party – where students can take the college placement test – on August 8.  The next New Student Orientation will be held on August 12.  All offices will be open that day, and registration will be open to all students.

Those wishing to schedule for either event or for an individual appointment and tour are encouraged to contact the Admissions Department at (574) 936-8898 Ext. 330.

Ancilla College Stressed as Affordable, Intelligent Option
July 2, 2009
While the economy continues to drag and many families find themselves in tight financial situations, Ancilla College president Dr. Ron May is stressing the Donaldson-based College as an affordable and intelligent option for those looking to continue their education.

“Our programs provide the foundation for success in baccalaureate programs as well as for the transition into the world of work,” said Dr. May.  “We are in a convenient location and we offer students educational opportunities in a small, student-focused environment.

“We are here, and we have space available for the fall term.”

With fall semester courses set to begin August 24, Ancilla College will continue to take registration up to that date.

According to Dr. May, students of all backgrounds may qualify for need-based and Academic REACH grants, in addition to state and federal aid.

Erin Alonzo, Director of Admissions, agreed, stating that affordability shouldn’t be an obstacle to affording college and pursuing one’s dreams.

“There are three main things all students need to ask themselves when they’re choosing a college: ‘Can I get accepted and do I fit?’; ‘Does the college have what I need to be successful?’; and ‘Can I afford to go?’

“Ancilla fits all three criteria, and we’re right here in their own backyard.”

Alonzo encouraged prospective students to contact Admissions at (574) 936-8898 Ext. 330 to schedule a visit, tour, and placement test, free of charge. 

According to Alonzo, college staff will be available to guide students through the application process, financial aid, and support services, ensuring that those individuals are given the best possible foundation to achieve their goals.


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