Happy Thanksgiving!

It’s the week before the Thanksgiving holiday, and what a great time to reflect on what we are grateful for and also to take a look at our goals for the future. It won’t be long until we will be setting those New Year resolutions! 

Is owning a business your goal? This week we are celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week and, together with the Wisconsin Technical College System, Entrepreneurship and Business Intelligence for the Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC) and IGNITE entrepreneurs group, Moraine Park is raising awareness of the support and resources available for startup companies. FCEDC Director Jo Ann Giese-Kent and IGNITE Representative/Moraine Park EWD Coordinator Laurie Barz have been going into classrooms this week giving presentations to students to get them thinking about the possibilities. 

Jo Anne and Laurie preparing for their entrepreneurship presentations.

Is being a renowned chef your goal? Our culinary students this week got a taste of what it would be like to be on a cooking show. Emily Deem from FOX 11’s Good Day Wisconsin was on our Fond du Lac campus taping live segments with students and staff from the Culinary Arts program. They sure were cooking up some delicious Thanksgiving dishes! 

 

 

 As I watched the culinary students (who were such naturals on the camera) cook turkey and other holiday treats, I began to think about how much I enjoy the start of the holiday season, as it brings quality time with my family and friends. I’m also always grateful for the invitation to Thanksgiving dinner, as most of my family knows that I do not have the “culinary skill.” Next week, I hope all of you take time to enjoy Thanksgiving and reflect on the many things you are thankful for. 

 

Glen McClyman, Rotary College Student of the Month

Each month the Fond du Lac Morning Rotary Club acknowledges a college student for his/her achievements, and this month a Moraine Park student is in the spotlight! Jim Eden, VP of academic affairs, and I were proud to have the opportunity to join the Rotary Club in recognizing Glen McClyman of Fond du Lac as the November Rotary College Student of the Month.

 

Glen describes himself as a nontraditional student. He said that working to support his family trumped higher education earlier in his life, and now, after a 20-year manufacturing career, he has decided to go back to school. Glen is pursuing an associate of applied science degree in Process Engineering Technology and will graduate next spring. On campus, he serves as president of the MPTC Student Society of Manufacturing Engineers Club, and he is also a representative to the MPTC Student Senate. Glen is undoubtedly keeping busy and not letting anything stand in the way of his achievements – he is carrying a 4.0 GPA, as well as working part time, coaching his daughter’s sports and serving as vice president of the North Fondy Soccer Club. 

Congratulations to Glen McClyman! 

Students are nominated by MPTC faculty and staff.  The recognition allows students to attend a Rotary meeting and learn more about civic organizations and giving back to the community. Maybe you will be the next Student of the Month!