converge · challenge us with ideas to keep our programs fresh, viable and innovative. ......

iNVest. iNVolve. eNVisionDecember 8-9th, 2016

Las Vegas, Nevada

CoNVerge

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iNVest. iNVolve. eNVision.

EXHIBITORS

Everyone deserves the chance to go to college. Let us help you get your students ready. We're the experts in college readiness. The Princeton Review has a strong track record of helping students from all backgrounds succeed and attain their goal of attending college. Our knowledge and understanding of school communities, combined with years of collaboration with school leaders, makes us a powerful learning partner..

CoNVerge 1st ANNUAL CONFERENCE • Las Vegas, NV

An SSGA Upromise 529 College Savings Account is an ideal tax-advantaged college savings option for qualified higher education expenses for your child or grandchild. You can use your savings at any college, university, or technical school in the country that accepts federal financial aid. More information about the Nevada SSGA Upromise529 plan, investment options, and the full program description can be found at: www.ssga.upromise529.com

Thank You to Our Exhibitors!

@GEARUPNV #coNVergenevada

CoNVerge 1st ANNUAL CONFERENCE • Las Vegas, NV 20

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iNVest. iNVolve. eNVision. 1

Conference Chairs’ Welcome Opening Luncheon Plenary Profiles Breakfast Plenary ProfilesLuncheon Keynote Profile Conference Agenda At-A-GlanceCampus Map/Conference BuildingsBreakout Session Descriptions Award DescriptionsAward Recipients Parking Instructions

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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CONFERENCE CHAIRS’ WELCOME

Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of the 2016 conference planning committee, welcome to the First Annual coNVerge Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. This conference is the result of a group of college access professionals believing in the need for a Nevada specific conference on college access. From this idea, a team came together to organize and make this belief a reality with coNVerge: College Access and Success for All Nevadans.

Most of the members of the conference planning committee work with first-generation students living in poverty. It is our passion to make college a reality for all Nevada students. There are many challenges that go along with working with students in Nevada. The breakout sessions at this conference were chosen to address a variety of these challenges faced in secondary and post-secondary education in our state.

To best highlight our theme, iNVest. iNVolve. eNVision. we have a wonderful slate of speakers for the conference plenary sessions. They will share with us their wealth of experience in working with and for students. They will also challenge us with ideas to keep our programs fresh, viable and innovative.

It has been a pleasure working with the planning committee to create a conference that we are very proud to offer for our Nevada colleagues. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all members of the outstanding conference committee for the hard work they dedicated to creating the coNVergeConference on top of their regular professional responsibilities.

We look forward to the next couple of days to connect with colleagues, share ideas, discuss challenges, and rejuvenate our shared passion of providing all Nevadans college access. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to make your conference experience more beneficial and enjoyable. Once again, welcome to the First Annual coNVerge Conference!

Sincerely,

Tammy Bolen and Janet StakeConference Planning Committee Charis

Janet StakeNSHE GEAR UP Director

Tammy BolenNevada GEAR UP Director


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OPENING LUNCHEON PLENARYSTEVE CANAVERO AND

CRYSTAL ABBA

Crystal Abba is Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs and began work for the Nevada System of Higher Education in 2002. A native Nevadan, Ms. Abba was appointed by Chancellor Daniel Klaich as the Vice Chancellor in January 2012. In her role she works closely with Nevada postsecondary leadership to identify and develop policies and practices that meet the challenges of a changing state and the needs of its residents. She was instrumental in researching, shaping and building consensus on policies and programs that expand access for all Nevada residents, including the creation of the Nevada’s first state-supported, need-based financial aid program, the Silver State Opportunity Grant. Her prior experience includes working in the Research Division of the Nevada Legislative Counsel Bureau and J.P. Morgan in the private banking division. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno and a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Delaware. Ms. Abba is married and has one child.

Steve Canavero, PhDSuperintendent of Public Instruction

Opening Luncheon PlenaryDecember 8th, 201611:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Crystal AbbaVice Chancellor: Academic and Student AffairsNevada System of Higher Education

Opening Luncheon PlenaryDecember 8th, 201611:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Steve Canavero, Ph.D., currently serves as the Superintendent of Public Instruction at the Nevada Department of Education was previously the first Director of the newly created State Public Charter School Authority. Steve brings years of experience working in public education at the state and local level. He has a background in evaluation and planning and worked as a teacher and principal. A graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in Ecology and Systematic Biology, Steve earned his M.Ed. and Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at the University of Nevada, Reno. When Steve is not working, he can be found with his wife and two daughters on a lake or ski hill – weather dependent.


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BREAKFAST PLENARYMAGDALENA MARTINEZ AND

JUAN LOPEZ

Dr. Magdalena Martinez joined The Lincy Institute in September 2013 as the Director of Education Programs. Prior to UNLV, she served as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs for the Nevada System of Higher Education. In her role she was responsible for strengthening P-16 education partnerships and examining education policy in order to increase access, equity, and success for underrepresented student populations. As Assistant Vice Chancellor, she was responsible for the successful development and implementation of statewide college access grants from the U.S. Department of Education (College Access Challenge Grant) and private grants (USA Funds). Additionally, she worked closely with the Nevada Department of Education to develop and implement the Nevada statewide GEAR UP grant ($21 million) which serves low-income students. Dr. Martinez experience also includes working at the National Forum of Higher Education for the Public Good at the University of Michigan. This initiative focuses on the role of higher education and the public good by examining the intersection of leadership and public policy. She contributed to the research, planning and implementation of multiple national dialogues which focused on issues related to postsecondary access, equity and student success. In addition, she served as a program evaluator for a three-year, W.K. Kellogg Foundation funded leadership program to prepare individuals for the presidency at Minority Serving Institutions (HBCUs, HSIs, TCUs).

In 2011, Dr. Martinez was an Equity & Policy Affiliate Fellow (Ford Foundation funded) in a partnership between the University of Southern California and Western Interstate Consortium in Higher Education. Other professional experience includes serving as a community college administrator at the College of Southern Nevada and policy and management analyst at the City of Las Vegas.

Dr. Martinez’s research interests encompass three interconnected areas focused on student access and success for underrepresented students, the role of community colleges, leadership and public policy to increase postsecondary access and success. Dr. Martinez holds a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Michigan, Master of Education from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Juan LopezMotivational Speaker

Breakfast PlenaryDecember 9th, 20168:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Magdalena Martinez, PhDDirector of Education ProgramsThe Lincy Institute

Breakfast PlenaryDecember 9th, 20168:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Juan V López is a recent graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno who envisions a world where people are moved by their purpose to commit great acts daily, while maximizing their potential and developing their character.

He is an entrepreneur digital marketer and empowerment speaker. He is a son of two Mexican immigrants, a first-generation college student and was raised in a single-parent home. He is the current CEO of the Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity Alumni Association at the University of Nevada. Juan spoke at TEDx University of Nevada in January 2015 and since then, has spoken at more than 40 schools, events and organizations ranging from elementary classrooms to presentations to business professionals.

Juan is driven to change lives through perspective, power and perseverance. Juan’s sole purpose in life is to help others identify theirs.


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LUNCHEON KEYNOTERanjit Sidhu

Ranjit Sidhu was appointed President & CEO of the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP) in May of 2015. He has a long history of service to NCCEP and its primary constituency, GEAR UP, having served on NCCEP’s Board of Directors, and years prior as a member of the staff executive team. His career has been consistently anchored in creating opportunities for students from low-income families, and in leading organizations to enhance social impact and growth.

Prior to assuming this role, Ranjit served as Senior Vice President for Strategy and New Product Development at the College Board. There he was responsible for the development and integration of the organization’s comprehensive strategy, working across the organization to determine how all current and future work can achieve significant and positive social impact. Ranjit also directed new product development, including career and technical education work, and higher education product strategy and offerings.

Ranjit’s previous roles include serving as Senior Vice President for Strategic Initiatives at ACT, where he played a significant role in developing the education division’s strategic plan and future product development efforts. He led ACT’s national efforts focused on policy development, advocacy, and partnerships in the education and workforce development arenas. Ranjit also served as Executive Vice President at NCCEP, and as Executive Vice President & COO at the National Association of Partners in Education. Early in his career he was a high school social studies teacher in the Washington, D.C. and Prince George’s County, Maryland, public school districts.

Ranjit holds a master’s degree in Education from George Washington University, a master’s degree in Public and International Affairs from the University of Pittsburgh, and a bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Mary, Washington.

Ranjit SidhuPresident & CEONational Council for Community and Education Partnerships

Luncheon Keynote December 9th, 201611:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.


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CONFERENCE AT A GLANCE

Thursday, December 8, 2016 TIME ROOM

Attendee Check-in 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Tam Alumni Center Lobby

Opening Luncheon and Plenary 11:45 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Tam Alumni Center Ballroom

Vendor Time 1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Tam Alumni Center Lobby

Concurrent Breakout Sessions Block A 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

eNVisioning Equity for Students in Poverty Student Union Green Room - 1st

Floor

The Jump-Start College Dual-Enrollment Program Tam Alumni Center Boardroom

Tech at School: Engaging the 21st Century Student Student Union Room 219 - 2nd Floor

Transparent Assignments Enhance Student’s Success Tam Alumni Center Ballroom

Concurrent Breakout Session Block B 2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Strength Based Approach and College Success Student Union Green Room - 1st

Floor

Supporting LGBT+: What We Don’t, Should and Do

Know

Tam Alumni Center Ballroom

Technology and Competency Based Approaches to

College and Career Readiness

Student Union Room 219 - 2nd Floor

iNVesting in Rural Post-Secondary Education Tam Alumni Center Boardroom

Concurrent Breakout Session Block C 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Providing Post- Secondary Education to Rural Nevada Student Union Green Room - 1st

Floor

Undergraduate Research: Supporting Student Success Student Union Room 219 - 2nd Floor

Using the Serial Podcast for Co-Curricular Study Tam Alumni Center Boardroom

Successful School Instructional Cultures Tam Alumni Center Ballroom

Vendor Time 5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Tam Alumni Center Lobby

Awards Ceremony and Networking Reception 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Tam Alumni Center Ballroom


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CONFERENCE AT A GLANCE

Vendor Time 8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Tam Alumni Center Lobby

Breakfast and Plenary 8:30 a.m.- 10:00 a.m. Tam Alumni Center Ballroom

Vendor Time 10:00 a.m.- 10:30 a.m. Tam Alumni Center Lobby

Concurrent Breakout Sessions Block D 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

iNVesting In Nevada’s College- Going Culture Beam Hall-BEH 121

Building Access and Equity for First Generation

Students

Tam Alumni Center

Boardroom

Access and Success for First-Generation Latinos Beam Hall- BEH 123

Prepping College Freshman for Success Beam Hall- BEH 124

Girls in STEM: Addressing Gender-Related Beliefs Beam Hall- BEH 127

Luncheon and Keynote 11:45 p.m.- 1:15 p.m.

Concurrent Breakout Sessions Block E 1:30 p.m.- 2:30 p.m.

SISTEM- Student Interactions with STEM at UNLV Beam Hall-BEH 121

Helping Students iNVest in Higher Education Beam Hall- BEH 123

CoNVerge- TMCC and GEAR UP Dual Credit

Partnership

Beam Hall- BEH 124

College Admissions for First Generation Students Beam Hall- BEH 127

What do Kids Really Need to Know Tam Alumni Center

Boardroom

Concurrent Breakout Sessions Block F 2:45 p.m.- 3:45 p.m.

Illuminating Solar Energy Concepts for Teachers Tam Alumni Center

Boardroom

Financial Literacy: Standards to Success Beam Hall- BEH 123

Service Learning and CBPR for Social Change Beam Hall- BEH 121

Career Exploration Programs and Pathways to

Success

Beam Hall- BEH 127

coNVerge Business Meeting (Optional) 4:00 p.m.- 4:30 p.m. Tam Alumni Center

Boardroom

GEAR UP Special Meeting (Required for state GEAR UP

staff)

4:30 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. Tam Alumni Center

Boardroom

Friday, December 9th, 2016 TIME ROOM


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CAMPUS MAP/CONFERENCE BUILDINGS


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We will be utilizing three buildings for this conference – the Richard Tam Alumni Center, the Student Union, and the Frank and Estella Beam Hall.

UNLV has an integrative campus map available at: https://www.unlv.edu/maps/campus .

You can use your mobile device to find campus buildings.

Richard Tam Alumni Center will be the primary facility for the conference. This will be where attendees register, gather for meals and receptions, and meet with exhibitors. There will also be concurrent breakout sessions scheduled in the ballroom and boardroom in this building.

The Student Union will be the location on Thursday for a few of the concurrent breakout sessions. We will be utilizing the Green Room on the first floor and Room 219 on the second floor. The Student Union is just south of the Tam Alumni Center.

Beam Hall will be the location for most of the breakout sessions scheduled on Friday. We will be using Rooms 121, 123, 124, and 127. Beam Hall is just south of the Tam Alumni Center, next to the Student Union.

https://www.unlv.edu/maps/campus

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CAMPUS MAP/CONFERENCE BUILDINGS


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1. Cottage Grove Parking Garage

2. Tam Alumni Center

3. Beam Hall

4. Student Union

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BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Thursday, December 8th Block A: 1:30 pm-2:30 pm

A-1 eNVisioning Equity for Students in Poverty

Location: Student Union Green Room - 1st FloorTheme: eNVision

The aim of this presentation will be to examine experiences of students who live in poverty as they navigate K-12 educational systems. First, an overview of social class theories and statistics will be provided. Then, stereotypes and myths about poverty will be problematized. Finally, the presentation will conclude with recommended strategies.

Presenters:Dr. Eleni Oikonomidoy : Associate Professor of Multicultural Education, University of Nevada, RenoMonika Mala, PhD Candidate: Assistant Director of Access and Opportunity Programs, University of Nevada, Reno

A-2 The Jump-Start College Dual-Enrollment Program

Location: Tam Alumni Center BoardroomTheme: iNVest, iNVolve, eNvision

"Jump Start College" is an effective partnership between Western Nevada College and fourteen Nevada high schools. Students in high school take 15 college credits per semester, with many on track to attain an Associate of Arts degree concurrently with high school graduation.

Presenters:John Kinkella: Dean of Student Services, Western Nevada College Janine Calhoun: Assistant Principal, Nevada Virtual Academy Scott Morrison: Director of Liberal Arts, Western Nevada College

Opening Luncheon/Tam Alumni Center Ballroom

Thursday, December 8th 11:45 am-1:00 pm

Vendor Time/Tam Alumni Center Lobby

Thursday, December 8th 1:00 pm-1:30 pm

Attendee Check-in/Tam Alumni Center Lobby

Thursday, December 8th 11:00 am-12:00 pm

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BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Thursday, December 8th Block A: 1:30 pm-2:30 pm

A-4 Transparent Assignments Enhance Student’s Success

Location: Tam Alumni Center BallroomTheme: eNVision

Transparency in assignments boosts students’ success (and especially underserved students’ success) significantly in three important areas: academic confidence, sense of belonging, and mastery of the skills employers value most when hiring (Winkelmes et al., Peer Review, Spring 2016).

Presenters:Dr. Mary-Anne Winkelmes: Coordinator of Instruction Development and Research, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

A-3 Tech at School: Engaging the 21st Century Student

Location: Student Union Room 219 -2nd FloorTheme: iNVolve

Looking for effective ways to energize the teaching and learning process? Most leading frameworks and standards, such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), suggest educators use active and technology-rich approaches to teaching and learning. This session will offer demos of favorite tech tools as well as resources for further exploration.

Presenter:Sarah Bryans-Bongey: Assistant Professor, Nevada State College

#coNVergenevada@GEARUPNV

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BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Thursday, December 8th Block B: 2:45 pm-3:45 pm

B-1 Strength Based Approach and College Success

Location: Student Union Green- 1st FloorTheme: iNVest

Helping students find success and stay in college can be a challenge. They lose motivation for various reasons and stop attending. The strength based approach encourages students to think about future possibilities rather than limitations thus increasing a successful college experience.

Presenters:Amy Blomquist: Academic Advisor, Truckee Meadows Community CollegeJill Barrett: Academic Advisor, Truckee Meadows Community College

B-2 Supporting LGBT+: What We Don’t, Should, and Do Know

Location: Tam Alumni Center BallroomTheme: iNVolve, eNVision

We don't have all the answers on supporting LGBTQIA+ students- but we're trying. Through a collaboration of campus entities, we will present our ways in which we are supporting LGBT+ students as well as hear from participants on what their organizations and peers are doing to support students.

Presenters:Theo Meek: Admissions and Records Coordinator, University of Nevada, RenoGeoff Green: Advisor, Financial Aid, University of Nevada, RenoRicardo Salazar: Coordinator, Center for Student Cultural Diversity

B-3 Technology and Competency Based Approaches to College and Career Readiness

Location: Student Union Room 219 - 2nd FloorTheme: iNVolve

This session will describe the pilot use of a computer-based and self-paced curriculum through the National Repository of Online Curriculum (NROC). During this one-hour session, an Upward Bound Director, a Technology Manager, and an Instructor will discuss challenges and successes from a summer teaching experience involving CCSD high school students. Attendees will be polled for their own responses, and will also be encouraged to participate in a discussion about benefits, concerns, and future directions of this approach.

Presenters:Sam McCool: Manager of the office of Instructional Technology, Nevada State CollegeKimberly Williams: Upward Bound Director, Nevada State CollegeSarah Bryans-Bongey: Assistant Professor of Educational Technology, Nevada State College

B-4 iNVesting in Rural Post-Secondary Education

Western Nevada College serves a five-county mostly rural area. Identification of student needs and potential roadblocks led to strategies to effectively serve WNC’s rural students. Topics include: dual credit, Latino Outreach, and establishing a ‘service hub’ for CTE training.

Presenters:Dr. Georgia White: Director of Career and Technical Education, Western Nevada College Guadalupe Ramirez: Latino Outreach Coordinator, Western Nevada CollegeMark Lobsinger: CTE College Credit Coordinator, Western Nevada College

Location: Tam Alumni Center BoardroomTheme: iNVolve

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BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Thursday, December 8th Block C: 4:00 pm-5:00 pmC-1 Providing Post Secondary Education to Rural Nevada

Great Basin College has developed a unique and highly efficient way to deliver high quality postsecondary educational opportunities to rural Nevadans. The presentation will explain in detail how this is accomplished.

Presenters: Dr. Mark Curtis: President, Great Basin CollegeLisa Frazier: Associate Vice President, Great Basin CollegeRobert Hannu: Director of Interactive Video Technology, Great Basin College

Location: Student Union Green Room - 1st FloorTheme: iNVest, iNVolve, eNVision

C-2 Undergraduate Research: Supporting Student Success

Location: Student Union Room 219 - 2nd FloorTheme: iNVolve

Undergraduate research is a high impact practice that contributes to student learning and success. However, first-generation students participate in faculty guided research at lower levels than non-first generation students. This session will explore best practices and how professionals can encourage Nevada students to get involved with research.

Presenter:Dr. Perry Fittrer: Assistant Director of McNair Scholars Program, University of Nevada, Reno

C-4 Successful School Instructional Cultures

Location: Tam Alumni Center BallroomTheme: eNVision

Research shows that the most effective methods of learning mathematics require particular classroom cultures. The culture of one classroom can affect an entire school and all stakeholders. Learn methods of building and fostering positive cultures in math classrooms.

This is a heavy participation session with some math.

Presenter: Mike Pacheco: Educational Program Professional, Nevada Department of Education

C-3 Using Serial Podcast for Co-Curricular Study

Location: Tam Alumni Center BoardroomTheme: iNVest

Enhance your summer or extracurricular program by implementing an engaging, project-based, thematic unit using the popular murder-mystery Serial Podcast. Develop critical thinking and analytic skills across the English, math and science disciplines as students examine the events and evidence presented in this exciting, contemporary podcast.

Presenter: Maria Sandra Jimenez: Assistant Director of Upward Bound Programs, University of Nevada, Reno

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Awards Ceremony & Networking ReceptionTam Alumni Center Ballroom



Friday, December 9th 8:00 am-8:30 am



Breakfast and Plenary/Tam Alumni Center Ballroom


Friday, December 9th

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BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Friday, December 8th Block D: 10:30 am – 11:30 am

D-1 iNVesting in Nevada’s College-Going Culture

Location: Beam Hall- BEH 121Theme: iNVest

This presentation explores self-reported college and career aspirations of Nevada high school seniors. Although research on college-going culture exists on a national level, our investigation is the first to focus solely on Nevada students. Using survey and observational data, we offer suggestions for enhancing the college-going culture in Nevada.

Presenters:Dr. Magdalena Martinez: Direction for Education Programs, The Lincy Institute, University of Nevada, Las VegasCaitlin Saladino: Research Assistant in Education Programs, The Lincy Institute, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

D-2 Building Access and Equity for First-Generation Students

Location: Tam Alumni Center BoardroomTheme: iNVest, eNVision

This program is a holistic overview of the college experience of first generation students. This program will challenge current practices of recruiting and retaining first generation students, and analyze how the entire University can support first generation student success.

Presenters:Theo Meek: Coordinator, Records and Registration, University of Nevada, Reno

D-3 Access and Success for First-Generation Latinos

This presentation will focus on two key elements. One: how the college is working to promote college to Latinos in our community. Two: what policies, procedures and practices are employed to increase the rate of degree attainment among first-generation non-native English speakers in a largely rural service area. The critical role of parent-engagement as well as the barriers facing Latino students to attain a college degree will be covered.

Presenters:Guadalupe Ramirez: Coordinator of Latino Outreach, Western Nevada CollegeJohn Kinkella: Dean of Student Services, Western Nevada College

Location: Beam Hall- BEH 123Theme: iNVest, iNVolve, eNVision

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BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Friday, December 9th Block D: 10:30 am – 11:30 am

Luncheon and Keynote/ Tam Alumni Center Ballroom

Friday, December 9th 11:45-1:15 pm

F-4 Prepping College Freshmen for SuccessThe first year of college is full of obstacles, and first-generation college students come with their own set of challenges. Learn how we approach, engage, and educate the first year participants in our program. This workshop will offer practical approaches to prepare low-income, first-generation students through various methods.

Presenters:Chris Westin: Counselor Coordinator Student Support Services Program, University of Nevada, Reno Daniel Valle: Assistant Director Student Support Services Program, UNR

Location: Beam Hall – BEH 124 Theme: iNVest

F-5 Girls in STEM: Addressing Gender-Related Beliefs

Location: Beam Hall – BEH 127Theme: eNVision

Females’ dispositions toward STEM are particularly problematic as a factor that likely contributes to their lower achievement and participation in STEM. Learn what the research says about supporting females in the STEM disciplines and some results of our out-of-school-time program for females in math and technology.

Presenter:Heather Glynn Crawford-Ferre: Educational Programs Professional, Nevada Department of Education

Follow us @GEARUPNV and @gotocollegenvMake sure to watch our Instagram story as we update

throughout the conference

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BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Friday, December 8th Block E: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

E-2 Helping Students iNVest in Higher Education

Location: Beam Hall- BEH 123Theme:

In this session we’ll dispel myths, explain options for Nevada students, and breakdown overwhelming financial aid terminology for professionals who work primarily with high school students.

Presenter: Jeannette Smith: Financial Aid Coordinator, Truckee Meadows Community College

E-3 CoNVerge-TMCC and GEAR UP Dual Credit Partnership

Location: Beam Hall- BEH 124 Theme:

The Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) Jump Start Dual Credit Program and GEAR UP partnered over the Summer of 2016 to offer a dual credit college class to GEAR UP high school juniors. The pilot program, designed to support college readiness and creation of a college-going culture, also provided useful data, challenges, and lessons learned.

Presenters:Raquel DePuy Grafton: Duel Credit Program Coordinator, Truckee Meadows Community College Mari Jimenez Ortiz: GEAR UP Ambassador, Truckee Meadows Community College

E-4 College Admissions for First Generation Students

The college admissions process can be complicated, especially for first generation students. Learn how one school implemented an effective college readiness program to support their students through the college admissions process.

Presenter:Alejandra Reyes: College and Career Facilitator, Washoe County School District

Location: Beam Hall- BEH 127Theme: iNVolve

E-1 SISTEM- Student Interactions with STEM at UNLV

SISTEM is a series of talks and hands-on activities for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Modeled after SCIP at UNR, SISTEM gives high school students the opportunity to learn about various STEM careers and research. The session covers program implementation and assessment at UNLV in fall 2016.

Presenters:Dr. Erica Marti: Assistant Research Professor, University of Nevada, Las VegasDr. Jaci Batista: Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Location: Beam Hall – BEH 121Theme: iNVolve, eNVision

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BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Friday, December 8th Block E: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

E-5 What do Kids Really Need to Know?

Location: Tam Alumni Center BoardroomTheme: eNVision

Research supports that many of the skills students need to know in order to succeed in college are social and emotional in nature. This presentation focuses on what those skills are, and the role school personnel can play in helping kids gain those important life skills and set themselves up for future success.

Presenter:Victoria Blakeney: Education Program Professional, Nevada Department of Education

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS

Friday, December 8th Block F: 2:45 pm – 3:45 pmF-1 Illuminating Solar Energy Concepts for Teachers

Location: Tam Alumni Center BoardroomTheme: iNVolve, eNVision

In an effort to bring both engineering concepts and engineering design into secondary classrooms, a UNLV group has provided training and materials to teachers in CCSD. During the training, teachers build a solar thermal water heater and immerse themselves in the engineering design process, which is part of the Next Generation Science Standards.

Presenters:Dr. Jaci Batista: Professor, University of Nevada, Las VegasDr. Erica Marti: Assistant Research Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

F-2 Financial Literacy: Standards to Success

Location: Beam Hall – BEH 123Theme: iNVest

This session will cover the topic of financial literacy and the growing importance of educating students to be financially responsible citizens. By utilizing the engaging digital resources provided by EverFi, teachers will see and gain access to digital technology to assist in educating on the concepts of financial literacy.

Presenter:Dana Benedict: Nevada Schools Manager, EverFi

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BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Friday, December 8th Block F: 2:45 pm – 3:45 pm

F-4 Career Exploration Programs and Pathways to Success

Location: Beam Hall- BEH 127Theme: iNVolve, eNVision

Utilizing a positive youth development model, this presentation introduces a program approach that offers both introductory and in-depth career exploration, develops 21st Century work skills, and engages employers to support the future workforce. The opportunity youth are provided is access to hands-on experiences intended to support professional growth.

Presenter: Laura Clark: Program Director, House of Blues Music Foundation

coNVerge Business Meeting (Optional) Tam Alumni Center Boardroom

Friday, December 9th 4:00 pm-4:30 pm

GEAR UP Special Meeting (Required for State GEAR UP staff) Tam Alumni Center Boardroom

Friday, December 9th 4:30 pm-5:00 pm

F-3 Service Learning and CBRP for Social Change

Location: Beam Hall – BEH 121Theme: iNVolve

The UNLV Service Learning Initiative for Community Engagement in Sociology (SLICES) employs a community based participatory research design to engage student learning outside of the classroom and to explicitly incorporate community voice in our inquiry. Our discussion will focus on fostering successful service learning partnerships.

Presenters: Anna Smedley-Lopez: Assistant Professor in Residence, University of Nevada, Las VegasMariana Sarmiento-Hernandez: Cofounder, University of Nevada, Las Vegas UndocuNetworkJose Melendrez: Executive Director of Community Partnerships, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

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2016 coNVerge Nevada Champion Award: P-12The coNVerge Nevada Champion Award: P-12 recognizes an individual within the P-12 system who works to advance the idea of iNVest. iNVolve. eNVision. in Nevada schools. This advocate could be an individual who makes a difference through direct or indirect work with students and works to promote a college-going culture throughout the state of Nevada. This person exudes the passion, professionalism, and perseverance to assist Nevada students in their quest to prepare for, access and succeed in postsecondary education.

AWARD DESCRIPTIONS

coNVerge Nevada ChampionAward: P-12

coNVerge Nevada ChampionAward: Community Partner

coNVerge Nevada Champion Award: Higher Ed

2016 coNVerge Nevada Champion Award: Community PartnerThe coNVerge Nevada Champion Award: Community Partner recognizes an individual within the business or non-profit community in Nevada who works with stakeholders - students, parents, families, schools or institutions of higher learning – to advance the idea of iNVest. iNVolve. eNVision.This advocate could be an individual who makes a difference through direct or indirect work with students and works to promote a college-going culture throughout the state of Nevada. This individual exudes the passion, professionalism, and perseverance to assist Nevada students in their quest to prepare for, access and succeed in postsecondary education.

2016 coNVerge Nevada Champion Award: Higher EdThe coNVerge Nevada Champion Award: Higher Ed recognizes an individual within higher education in Nevada who works with stakeholders - students, parents, families, schools or institutions of higher learning - to advance the idea of iNVest. iNVolve. eNVision. This advocate could be any individual who makes a difference through direct or indirect work with students and works to promote a college-going culture throughout the state of Nevada. This person exudes the passion, professionalism, and perseverance to assist Nevada students in their quest to prepare for, access and succeed in postsecondary education.


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Award Winners

Patrick Peters is a school administrator in Lyon County School District. He is currently in his 15th year as the Principal of Silver Stage High School in Silver Springs, Nevada. Prior to becoming the Principal, he served 3 years at SSHS as the Assistant Principal. His entire educational career has been spent serving the Silver Springs and Stagecoach communities. Prior to becoming a school administrator, he spent 8 years teaching at Silver Stage Middle School. His teaching experience includes 8 years of 7th/8th grade Technology (STEM), 5 years of 8th grade Social Studies, and 3 years of 7th grade Math.

Patrick graduated from Douglas High School in Minden, Nevada and went on to play basketball at Lassen College in Susanville, California while working on his Associates Degree. He then transferred to Sonoma State University and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree, he attended Sierra Nevada College and earned his teaching credential. In the Spring of 2001 he graduated from University of Phoenix with his Master’s in Education Administration.

When he is not working with staff and students of Silver Stage High School, Patrick can be found in his hometown of Gardnerville, NV, spending time with his wife, Leslie, and his daughters, Madi and Mackenzie.

Chester Burton: President- Western Nevada College

Patrick Peters:Principal-Silver Stage High School

Chet Burton has served as President of Western Nevada College since 2013. He was named permanent president in 2015. Prior to being named president, he served as the college’s Vice President of Finance and Administration, and Finance Director and Controller. He brings to the position more than 30 years of administrative management experience from the private, public and government sectors.

Under Burton’s leadership, a number of WNC programs and initiatives have flourished. Jump Start College, a dual credit partnership with local high schools, celebrated its first graduates in May 2016. Twenty-seven northern Nevada students earned an Associate degree while also receiving their high school diploma. The college’s Veterans Resource Center has grown into a model Nevada program, which helps veterans and their families’ transition to higher education, while providing indispensable mentoring and tutoring.

In addition, under Burton’s guidance, the college’s Career and Technical Education programs have expanded and responded to the impressive growth in the manufacturing sector in the region triggered by the arrival of Tesla Motors and Panasonic. To stimulate skills and employment for Nevadans, WNC has created an Applied Industrial Technology program that prepares students for a manufacturing technician credential and has fast-tracked other industry credentialing through accelerated courses in Welding, Machine Tool Technology, Construction, Cisco Technology and Automotive Mechanics.


GEAR UP Champion: K-12

GEAR UP Champion: Higher Education

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Award Winners

Assemblywoman Olivia Diaz has represented District 11 in Clark County since 2010. She serves on the Assembly Democratic Caucus Board of Executive Directors and has served on the Commerce and Labor, Judiciary, Education, and Taxation Committees.

In 2005, Diaz received the Distinguished Educator of the Year Award, C.C. RonnowElementary School, CCSD-East Region. Diaz has been active in a number ofeducation organizations, such as co-chair of the Southern Nevada Forumon higher education committee, as well as the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators and the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials. The mother of three, Olivia is an English Language Learner Specialist.


Olivia Diaz:Assemblywoman-District 11

GEAR UP Champion: Community Partner

Thank you to our sponsors

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Parking Instructions


Recommended Parking on UNLV campus:

Parking on the UNLV campus is strictly enforced. It is recommended that you park in the Cottage Grove Parking Garage. You must purchase a parking pass at the ticket machines located at the garage entrances ($1 per hour or $4 all day). The machine only accepts cash.

Other parking options are available. If you are interested in a different parking option, please contact Parking & Transportation Services at 702-895-1300 or online at:

Website: https://www.unlv.edu/parking/permitsOffice Hours: 7 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday through Friday

Parking Services Office Campus Location: Parking Services is located in the Claude I Howard Public Safety Building two buildings to the west of Lied Library on Harmon Avenue.

Please Note: The coNVerge conference is not responsible for parking citations or towing if the parking payment is not received, the proper permits are not received or displayed, or if attendees park in the wrong type of spaces.

tel:702-895-1300

https://www.unlv.edu/parking/permits

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NOTES

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SAVEDATEth

e

2nd Annual

CoNVergeCollege Access and

Success for all Nevadans

A statewide conference for

college access

professionals from K-12

through higher education

Reno, NVNovember

5-7, 2017

converge · challenge us with ideas to keep our programs fresh, viable and innovative. ......

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