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Bulls Notebook: USF Sarasota-Manatee students hand out candy with a message for Halloween

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Students in USF Sarasota-Manatee’s Communication Sciences & Disorders (CSD) program are hoping to draw attention to speech, language and hearing issues through Halloween candy.

The students, members of the National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association (NSSLHA), created a series of stickers with facts about speech, language and hearing disorders, then attached the stickers to candy bars.

“I thought this would be a fun outreach idea, and it will help bring the members together,” Chapter President Amanda Driscoll said.

In all, the students created eight messages. Among them: “3 million+ Americans stutter,” “Dysphagia (dis-fey-juh) is defined as problems involving the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus or gastroesophageal junction,” and “By first grade, roughly 5% of children have noticeable speech disorders.”

The messages include a link to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, www.asha.org, for more information.

Driscoll came up with the idea a few weeks ago as members talked about how to increase awareness about CSD disorders during the upcoming holiday. The students live across the country and attend classes online. Driscoll said she thought: What better way to unite the students than to create fun giveaways to bring to parties and other Halloween functions?

She doesn’t anticipate giving CSD-themed candy to trick-or-treaters at the door, but the messages are innocent enough that it couldn’t hurt. The stickers are decorated with pumpkins, spiders, owls and other fun Halloween imagery. Driscoll found a website with sheets of stickers onto which to print the messages.

Jenna Luque, PhD, the chapter’s faculty advisor, applauded the effort.

“I think it’s innovative and very inclusive,” she said. “We get all of our members involved and it helps spread important information about communication disorders.”

Grosholz, Stone and Ngo contribute to book with assistance from grad student

USF Sarasota-Manatee graduate student Alexandra “Lexie” Fleck counts herself fortunate to have had the opportunity to contribute to the recently published book Gender and Practice: Insights from the Field (Emerald Publishing).

The second-year criminal justice major contributed to the ninth chapter, “The Benefits of Long-Term Treatment for Adult Victims of Sex Trafficking,” along with Jessica M. Grosholz, PhD; Sandra S. Stone, PhD; and Fawn T. Ngo, PhD, all of USFSM’s College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences.

The 12-chapter book came out in September. The chapter by Fleck and the professors centers on the need for services to help sex-trafficking victims recover and, in particular, focuses on the work of Sarasota-based nonprofit Selah Freedom to assist victims.

“I’m pretty excited about it,” Fleck said. “I feel really lucky to be involved in this research project, and my professors have been extremely supportive of anything I’ve done, even outside of the project. I couldn’t ask for better professors to work under.”

Fleck conducted research, transcribed interviews and assisted with writing and editing the chapter. She was hired as a research assistant about 18 months ago.

“From day one, she was fully immersed in the project,” Grosholz said. “She took part in all events and attended numerous trainings, community events and one-on-one interviews and focus groups. She transcribed verbatim all of the survivor interviews. Without these transcriptions, simply put, this chapter would not have happened.”

Selah Freedom first contacted the USFSM professors two years ago to conduct an in-depth evaluation of its work.

The researchers completed five one-on-one interviews with sex trafficking survivors and more than 80 hours of participant observation, studying staff-run community events, therapy sessions and volunteer trainings.

They also conducted four focus groups with staff, two focus groups with volunteers and an additional five interviews with survivors after the chapter was submitted.

Fleck said she hopes that her work on the book opens doors as she applies to PhD programs in criminology.

“I’ve always been interested in criminology, ever since I was a kid, and I know that this what I want to pursue. I want to become a professor.”

Ready Player Register

Showing their spirit at last year’s Dive into Registration event were (left to right) Patrice McLaughlin, Glenna Schubert, Olivia Savage, Briana Byers and Allison Dinsmore.

The USFSM Office of Records & Registration, Student Government Association and the Craftabull Club will present “Ready Player Register,” a class registration drive today from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and on Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the FCCI Rotunda.

The twice-yearly drive reminds students to register early for spring and fall classes.

“It’s important to register as soon as possible so students can get their preferred classes and to plan for financial aid,” Assistant Director of Records and Registration Glenna Schubert said. “It also leaves time to make changes if a student wants to add or drop a class.”

Registration for the spring 2020 semester is set to begin Nov. 4.

For this semester’s drive, organizers are embracing the theme “Ready Player Register” after the movie and book, Ready Player One, which was adopted for this year’s Common Read program.

The Craftabull student club will provide decorations.

“This is our first event, and since we’re a new club we wanted to show our creativity and help in any way we could,” club President Madison Duelge, a psychology major, said. “As someone who works in the Admissions area, I also understand the importance of these registration drives.”

Duelge said she anticipates a colorful ’80s theme with fun video game references to entice students to the registration tables.

The event also will include snacks, refreshments and music. Student Government is co-sponsoring this semester’s event.

Bank of America Brunch on the Bay tickets now on sale

Sponsorships and individual tickets are still available for Bank of America Brunch on the Bay, the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee’s signature fundraising event for student scholarships.

Brunch is less than a week away, set for Sunday, Nov. 3, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the USFSM campus, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.

According to Lee Williams, regional vice chancellor for advancement and alumni engagement at USF Sarasota-Manatee, “The organizing committee has developed sponsorship packages based on the annual cost of tuition at USFSM. For example, a $5,000 sponsorship covers the majority of tuition expenses for one year, and that level of sponsorship corresponds to a table of eight at Brunch, plus considerable recognition and exposure through the event.”

Sponsorship levels range from $2,500 for a half table to $25,000, which covers slightly more than four years of tuition and includes two VIP tables. For tickets or more information, visit usfsm.edu/giving/brunch-on-the-bay/purchase-sponsorships-and-tickets.aspx or call (941) 359-4603.

Since its inception 26 years ago, Brunch has provided more than 1,800 scholarships to USFSM students, most of whom are from Sarasota and Manatee counties. This year’s Brunch co-chairs are alumni Lauren Henry and Pete Petersen.

Brunch showcases USFSM’s role as a local university that provides a preeminent, affordable education for students who become valued members of the workforce and vibrant contributors to the Sarasota-Manatee community.

Drone TETRA 2020 technology conference coming to USF Sarasota-Manatee

Interest in drone technology is soaring with conventions and expositions taking place weekly across the country.

Now, USF Sarasota-Manatee is partnering with drone experts and enthusiasts for an all-inclusive conference to explore current and future applications for drone use in educational, commercial and recreational settings.

The conference – Drone Technologies, Education, Training, Research and Applications (TETRA), or Drone TETRA 2020 – is set for Feb. 21, 2020.

It will focus on drone technology’s ever-widening role in society, from recreation, agriculture and utility inspections to public safety, surveying, mapping, cinema, photography and national defense and security.

Also scheduled are a drone-flying competition and special session to examine the science and engineering behind drones, including Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and the Internet of Things, among other emerging technologies.

For more information about Drone TETRA 2020, including conference fees, visit usfsm.edu/featured-events/drone-tetra.

USF Sarasota-Manatee sets Nov. 1 deadline for new, transfer student applications

Future USF Sarasota-Manatee students have two important deadlines approaching on Friday, Nov. 1.

First, prospective freshman students (first time in college) must submit their applications for admission and SAT/ACT test scores by Nov. 1 to receive priority consideration for enrollment during the Fall 2020 semester.

Second, transfer students from other colleges seeking admission to USF Sarasota-Manatee for Spring 2020 must apply by Nov. 1 and complete their applications for admission by Nov. 15.

Transfer students can apply in three easy steps:

  • Submit an online application at usfsm.edu/apply
  • Submit a $30 application fee
  • Submit your college transcript

Transfer applicants with between 30 and 59 transferable credits must also submit a high school transcript.

“This year, the new Nov. 1 deadlines will help us provide better and more personalized service to advise both our transfer and freshmen populations,” said Brandon Avery, associate director of admissions. “That being said, for transfer students looking to join us for the spring semester, or freshmen for the fall, it is more important than ever to get all of your admissions information to us in a timely manner.”

For questions and more information, contact the USF Sarasota-Manatee Office of Admissions at admissions@usf.edu.

Graduate Open House set Nov. 16 at USFSM

Professionals seeking a career boost and students considering graduate school can attend USF Sarasota-Manatee’s Graduate Open House on Saturday, Nov. 16.

The 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. session will be held at USFSM’s campus, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Learn about graduate degree programs, the admissions process and academic life at USFSM. The session is free.

“Our Graduate Open House is an excellent opportunity for potential graduate students to speak with faculty in their program of interest, learn about the application process and visit campus,” Admissions Counselor Cassidy Garbutt said. “We encourage anyone interested in graduate study at University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee to attend.”

The session is open to professionals, undergraduate students and recent college graduates.

Reserve a spot at: usfsm.edu/admissions/campus-experience/masters-info-sessions.aspx.

Learn about USFSM at the Saturday Tour and Talk

High school students and their families can tour the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee and learn about academic programs and the admissions process at the “Saturday Tour and Talk” set for Nov. 16, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., at the USFSM campus, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.

Students and families can learn about USFSM’s more than 40 degree programs, meet staff and faculty and tour the campus, just north of downtown Sarasota. The session is free.

Also learn about admissions, tuition and financial aid, and talk with current students.

“The Tour and Talk is great weekend option for students who are unable to visit USFSM during the week due to school and work schedules or other commitments,” Admissions counselor Sean Grosso said.

Sign up for the Saturday Tour and Talk at: usfsm.edu/admissions/campus-experience/freshman-and-transfer-open-house.aspx.

Malkic returns from Higher Education Partnership conference in Costa Rica

 

USFSM’s Director of Global Engagement Amela Malkic recently co-presented at the 2019 Higher Education Partnership: Internationalization in the Americas Conference in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

She spoke on the topic, “Removing Age as a Barrier to Study Abroad: Expanding Opportunities for Non-Traditional Aged Students.”

“This was a wonderful professional development opportunity,” said Malkic, who is also president of the Mid-Florida Chapter of the Fulbright Association. “I enjoyed sharing my knowledge and professional expertise as well as learning from other presenters and participants.”

The Oct. 1-3 conference focused on inclusion and sustainability in international education.

Malkic’s presentation provided context and data related to non-traditional-aged students in study abroad programs and shared insights about best practices for universities and study abroad providers.

“The conference facilitated numerous discussions about how programs in international education can be more inclusive and sustainable both for students and in the context of institutional partnerships,” she said.

Tour and explore Sarasota County career opportunities

All majors are welcome to visit Sarasota County government on Friday, Nov. 8, to network and learn about career and internship opportunities in county government.

County Career Day runs from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Students will gather at USFSM’s FCCI Rotunda before traveling to the county offices. USFSM will provide transportation, lunch and key introductions. Space is limited to the first 20 students.

Visit www.usfsm.joinhandshake.com by Nov. 1 to RSVP.

This event is open to all USFSM students.

Critical thinking certification workshop set Nov. 22

USF Sarasota-Manatee will offer a one-day workshop on Nov. 22 to enhance one of the most sought-after skill sets in today’s workforce: critical thinking.

The Critical Thinking Certification Workshop is set for 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Room A320A at USFSM, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. It’s open to all professionals, including CEOs, business owners, managers, human resources professionals, entrepreneurs, educators and lifelong learners.

Early registration is $79 up to one week prior to registration. Regular registration is $99. The registration fee includes lunch and the Watson-Glaser assessment. Participants must bring a laptop computer or mobile device to complete the online assessment.

Visit usfsm.edu/ctworkshops to register. The workshop is limited to 25 participants.

“Based on my research and conversations, critical thinking is one of the most important skill sets for both the current and future workforce,” said Greg Smogard, PhD, assistant vice president of Innovation and Business Development at USFSM.

The workshop includes:

  • Session 1: Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Assessment
  • Session 2: Watson-Glaser Development Report and Personal Work Plan
  • Session 3: Critical Thinking: General Case Study and Discussion
  • Session 4: Critical Thinking: Business Case and Discussion
  • Session 5: Applying Critical Thinking to your Personal Development Plan
  • Session 6: Post Workshop Progress Report

For more information, contact Mike Gillespie at (941) 359-4228 or magillespie@usf.edu.

CARVERCON 2019 coming to USF Sarasota-Manatee

The CARVERCON 2019 security conference is coming to USF Sarasota-Manatee.

Hear from security experts, including Luke Bencie, author of The CARVER Target Analysis and Vulnerability Assessment Methodology: A Practical Guide for Evaluating Security Vulnerabilities.

The conference is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 8, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Security professionals nationwide are expected, including professionals from the military, law enforcement and intelligence communities, as well as security directors from Fortune 500 companies.

CARVERCON debuted last November in Washington, D.C., but after a snowstorm organizers relocated the national conference to the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.

The cost of conference is $99. To register or for more information, visit smiconsultancy.com/event/carvercon-2019.

USFSM hosts Career Coaching sessions for students

USF Sarasota-Manatee is inviting students to one-on-one Career Coaching sessions featuring renowned business and community leaders. The sessions will be held in room C118. Sign up at usfsm.joinhandshake.com.

Informative and inspiring, the sessions will enable students to meet with industry experts to discuss topics from effective interview techniques to communication skills and long-term career plans.

The coaches include:

  • Marco Galante, an accomplished senior executive with a multinational background in the food and food ingredients industry. His motto: “Work for a cause not applause!” Galante will meet with students from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 6 and Nov. 20.
  • Jeannine Abele, a noted senior executive in the consumer products and industrial business sectors. With more than 30 years of executive leadership experience, Abele has led global IT organizations with a focus on supply chain, marketing and sales and service. Her motto is “Make a difference every day!” She will be available from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 30 and Nov. 13.
  • Bonnie Johnson, a retired senior sales/marketing executive in the information technology industry. Johnson has more than 25 years of experience in key executive positions focused on information technology and clinical consulting. Johnson’s motto is: “Make your job a reality!” She will be available from 10 a.m. to noon on Nov. 17.

In addition, Career Services will host special session on Thursday, Oct. 31, from 10 a.m. to noon, to provide further information to students seeking career and internship advice.

Visit Career Services for more information.

‘Let’s Talk Talent Tuesdays’ to run through semester

Career Services reminds students about the new career-boosting program “Let’s Talk Talent Tuesdays.”

The weekly program features a slate of guest speakers discussing career issues. It runs from noon to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Office of Veteran Success on the first floor of the Campus Center. Students and faculty are invited to stop by.

Topics and speakers include:

  • Oct. 29: “Networking for Success,” with Patrice Say and Camille Mars of FCCI Insurance Group
  • Nov. 12: “Interview Techniques,” with Zolia Hernandez, Matt Real and Peter Bryant of Bank of America

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