School At Work (SAW)
by
Sandy Jones and Laura Weidner

Winner Institution:
Anne Arundel Community College

Innovation Type:
Resource Development

Description:
Anne Arundel Community College has selected the School at Work (SAW) program for this year’s Innovation of the Year Award. The institution sought an innovative approach to helping meet the national healthcare shortage. The result is School at Work (SAW), an employer-centered, technology-assisted educational delivery system developed in a partnership between AACC and Catalyst Learning (CL) in KY. SAW combines a unique approach—DVD instructional lessons, print course materials, and web-based activities. Each course is infused with comprehensive career development activities that involve both the work environment and connection with the local community college or education provider. On-site a “coach,” a program-trained hospital recruiter, trainer, or manager serves as the instructional facilitator.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

The Baltimore City Community College Greenhouse
by
Sarah L. Spence, Albert McNeil

Winner Institution:
Baltimore City Community College

Innovation Type:
Other: Serving the college community

Description:
The Baltimore City Community College greenhouse staff decided to expand the usefulness of the greenhouse beyond instructional support to the Natural and Biological Sciences department. Periodic plant sales were scheduled throughout the year to remove excess greenery and to generate revenue. In addition to the opportunity to purchase moderately priced greenery, staff and students were educated about the items for sale and greenhouse operations. The greenhouse staff voluntarily donated their time and resources to numerous committees charged with planning events such as graduation, convocation and employee recognition programs. By providing these services to the the college, the need to purchase certain products from external vendors was eliminated and resulted in a cost savings. Many buildings and offices have been "livened" up by the greenery from greenhouse. The efficient service and quality of greenery provided by the greenhouse provides an inviting atmoshere to learn and to work.

How this project is being recognized:
luncheon and campus newsletter

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

The Energy Efficient Green Building Institute
by
David Eishen, Vernon Beuke, C.A. Engleton, Pam Gist, Jim McCormick, Lynn Nolte, and Jennifer Wimbish

Winner Institution:
Cedar Valley College

Innovation Type:
Resource Development

Description:
Cedar Valley College has been selected as the winner of this year’s Innovation of the Year Award. David Eishen, Vernon Beuke, C.A. Engleton, Pam Gist, Jim McCormick, Lynn Nolte, and Jennifer Wimbish are being recognized for their work on The Energy Efficient Green Building Institute. In response to a critical national need, Cedar Valley College created the Energy Efficient Green Building Institute. The Institute's purpose is to promote the national agenda for energy management and conservation. The core of the Institute is a credit program in energy rating and technology scheduled to open in the fall of 2006. However, the college has expanded the project to serve both the community and state as a resource center in energy efficiency practices and sustainable communities. Cedar Valley has formed partnerships with local chambers, school districts, builders, and businesses to build an institute that will be recognized nationally.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Student Learning Outcomes
by
Linda Heiland and Linda Day

Winner Institution:
Central Arizona College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching: Accountability

Description:
The focus of the project was to develop student learning outcomes and proficiency standards for all courses and programs. This was accomplished through three distinct stages: (1) development of stringent guidelines, clearly stated and widely disseminated, (2) frequent faculty and staff training sessions, and (3) accountability demands. These three steps worked together to establish an atmosphere of faculty empowerment and buy-in. Learning Outcomes Project has grown and become a quality initiative for the institution, expanding those original guiding principles and three stages into other areas of development. Through these specific guidelines we began to see noticeable and documented improvements in the quality of student learning. Success is centered around faculty focused committees with staff and student participation, specific timelines, access to continuous support and resources, and most importantly, consequences for action and inaction.

How this project is being recognized:
Newspaper article, finalist for the Bellwether Award, school newspaper, President's Award

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

CPCC Automotive Program
by
Laurie Walker

Winner Institution:
Central Piedmont Community College

Innovation Type:
Workforce Preparation and Development

Description:
Central Piedmont Community College announced that Laurie Walker has won this year’s Innovation of the Year Award. She has converted Central Piedmont Community College’s partnerships with four of the most competitive organizations in the world—General Motors, Toyota, Daimler-Chrysler, and BMW—into a value adding “factory.” As part of these partnerships, the companies send curriculum updates annually, which are then integrated into the College’s automotive classes. The curriculum is applied to current year vehicles donated by the manufacturers, valued at over $1M, making classes and labs simulations of today’s dealerships. These partnerships help Laurie and the automotive faculty generate over $300,000 annually in self-supporting revenue. CPCC’s automotive program is truly a national leader in automotive workforce development.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Institute
by
Tom Black, Director ESOL Institute and Kathy Matel, ESOL faculty

Winner Institution:
Century College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Institute, a collaboration between Century College and Metropolitan State University, showcases best practices in language instruction. Key program characteristics include multifaceted assessment, individualized placement and advising, learning communities, and skill-building workshops; all of which enhance student satisfaction, retention, GPAs, and graduation rates. At Century’s ESOL Institute, language acquisition for immigrants is regarded as a powerful engine for economic and social justice. Century’s ESOL program serves students from over 70 different countries. When they are successful in college these students not only better themselves financially, but also render much-needed assistance to families, communities, and native countries.

How this project is being recognized:
Newspaper article, newsletter, ceremony

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Distance Learning Solutions
by
Rob Disbennett, Kenneth Hall and Gerald (Jerry) McMillen

Winner Institution:
Cuyahoga Community College

Innovation Type:
Resource Development

Description:
Cuyahoga’s selection for this year’s Innovation of the Year Award is The Distance Learning Development Group for their work on Distance Learning Solutions. The group has designed, developed, and implemented programs and systems which have improved the overall quality, efficiency and productivity of the Distance Learning Department and as well as the overall student experience in Distance Learning classes. This team has created two programs, LearnBB and C&CR. LearnBB is a custom program which enables the Distance Learning Student Support Specialist to schedule classes, maintain enrollment information and follow up on the progress of the distance learning students at Cuyahoga Community College who register for the orientation class to the Blackboard system. C&CR is a program created to support the Court Reporting and Captioning courses of study. The Distance Learning Technologies staff worked with the C&CR instructors to enable the uploading of students digitally recorded material t

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

8-Week Online Session Despite Hurricane Katrina
by
Debbie Lea, Tim Stamm, Sean Martin, and Patrick Conroy

Winner Institution:
Delgado Community College

Innovation Type:
Leadership and Organization

Description:
After Hurricane Katrina, Delgado offered an 8-week online session for 2,500 students who evacuated all over the nation. A small core of faculty and leaders relocated in temporary facilities to explore how to reconnect with displaced faculty and students. This group overcame insurmountable obstacles; no college facilities, no technology infrastructure, no student information system, and no communication network. First, they re-established a temporary website. With a means for communication in place, an immediate e-mail exchange began between the college, faculty, and students. Without facilities, distance learning was the only feasible learning vehicle. By mid-semester, a core team identified 5,281 online course offerings, established teaching commitments from faculty, organized e-learning faculty workshops, developed manual registration and grade reporting, and opened a Delgado Call Center for faculty and students to voice their questions and concerns.

How this project is being recognized:
Award ceremony and local publicity

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Don Laughner Award for Creative Change
by
Paul Koblas, Lori Wierda, Don Halog and Jennifer Williams

Winner Institution:
Delta College

Innovation Type:
Other

Description:
Delta College has awarded the Don Laughner Award for Creative Change with this year’s Innovation of the Year Award. The team's effort led to revision of a policy regarding compensation for teaching lab formatted classes. This addressed an inequity that had existed at Delta College since it opened which was based on the old fashioned university model of reduced compensation for labs. After concerted efforts involving many groups and leadership from these four individuals, the faculty and administration agreed on a compromise plan that addressed the concerns of all stakeholders. This was a monumental achievement, illustrating what works well in our shared governance system.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

The Assessment Zone
by
Dr. Kenneth P. Kerr, Mr. Richard Schellenberg

Winner Institution:
Frederick Community College

Innovation Type:
Research, Assessment and Accountability

Description:
In response to an identified need on campus, my collaborator and I wrote and produced an 18-minute DVD to explain what the assessment of student learning is and why it is important that we assess learning in a meaningful way. We presented the video as the centerpiece of the College's January 2006 faculty retreat. Prior to presenting the video, we were frequently asked what exactly assessment is and why must we bother to do it. After viewing the video, the faculty began to ask "how" and "when" questions. There were no more "what" and "why " questions. We believe that other institutions could benefit from doing a project like this on their own campuses, related to their unique mission, and using “actors” from their faculty and staff.

How this project is being recognized:
Annual Foundation Awards Ceremony in June 2006

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Radius, The HACC Gallery and Museum Shop
by
Linda Lefevre, Jim Lard, Robert Troxell, Tom Fogarty, Morgan Muth, Jessica Lantz, Jodi Frank, Jack Leighow, Anita Blackaby

Winner Institution:
Harrisburg Area Community College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
Radius, the HACC Gallery and Museum Shop, is the outcome of a partnership between the College and the State Museum of Pennsylvania. HACC's Contemporary Crafts Marketing program benefits from having a retail outlet for student- produced work in glass, jewelry and ceramics. Students also have consignment opportunities and gain knowledge and skill from their affiliation with the PA Guild of Craftsman. In addition, students studying marketing, business, entrepreneurship and graphic arts provide services to the shop while gaining real-world experience in developing marketing plans, product design and graphic design. Radius is unique in that it involves faculty from several disciplines across academic divisions. Radius is overseen by a steering committee composed of HACC faculty and staff, the PA Guild of Craftsman and staff of the State Museum. Radius is co-sponsoring "Craft of the State," the 1st state-wide juried craft show which will bring state-wide attention to the Crafts programs.

How this project is being recognized:
Award Ceremony, Newspaper Article, School Newsletter, etc.

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

WebCT Clinic for Online Teachers (online)
by
Nancy Epner, Ruth Hickey, Dawn Marie Warren, and Katharine Webb

Winner Institution:
Humber Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning

Innovation Type:
Resource Development

Description:
This WebCT clinic highlights the typical characteristics of online learners, teachers, and a quality online course. It provides online teachers with the opportunity to become familiar with the student experience from pre- to post registration. The participants are then introduced to effective communication techniques for using the tools of WebCT to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for all concerned. This innovative course was developed in order to move the distance learning agenda forward in the College through the creation of an environment that embraces the learner, the platform for learning, and provides a venue to explore this exciting teaching technology.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

On-Line Tutorial Program in Mathematics
by
Asoka Peiris

Winner Institution:
Indian River Community College

Innovation Type:
Resource Development

Description:
IRCC’s Mathematics Department has created an entire set of customized on-line tutorial and assessment modules to enhance student performance in College Algebra. Developed with Maple TA software, these on-line tools enable students to diagnose their own weaknesses in math comprehension and access materials 24/7 to reinforce skills. The modules help students understand abstract concepts, address various learning styles, offer step-by-step assistance in solving problems, provide instant feedback, and reduce student reliance on textbooks. Math faculty also use the modules for classroom demonstrations. Since implementation in Summer 2005, classes which have incorporated the on-line tutorials experience higher rates of student success.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Calculus Concept Videos
by
Mike Martin

Winner Institution:
Johnson County Community College

Innovation Type:
Resource Development

Description:
Mike Martin was recognized by Johnson County Community College as this year’s winner of the Innovation of the Year Award. The author wrote video scripts, provided talent for, and conceptualized a new way to reach student learners in mathematics. These videos, developed in partnership with the McGraw-Hill publishing company, cover topics in mathematics by first engaging the student in a visually appealing application which motivates the instructional unit and, in the end, returns back to application setting. Instructional math video has previously relied on just board work or slides. These new videos use real-life application video clips, highly interactive work with mathematical formulae, and interactive animation effects to build the graphs and figures. The idea is to engage the learner’s attention and never leave them wondering, “Where can I apply this?”

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

eLumen Project
by
Chuck Hinz, Connie McCall, Lori Jeppson, Maggie Thomas, Nancy Glab, and Rich Edwards

Winner Institution:
Kirkwood Community College

Innovation Type:
Research, Assessment and Accountability

Description:
Kirkwood Community College awarded the Innovation of the Year Award to the eLumen Project. Kirkwood Community College Health Science programs face the challenge and accountability to uphold and measure specific professional standards or competencies. eLumen is a Web-based data management system that allows assessment of program competencies across courses and faculty. eLumen allows collection of information in real time in a lab, hospital or classroom with tablet PCs and wireless Web access. The review of progress over time in a program provides talking points and students are held accountable to develop a personal improvement plan. The beauty of eLumen is the comparison of data for program competencies across courses and faculty within a program.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Bringing Together D.E. and P.E.
by
Barry Dahl

Winner Institution:
Lake Superior College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
Lake Superior College has created unique online learning opportunities that tie together distance education with distance athletic events. Barry Dahl has been selected to receive the 2006 Innovation Award for his work in planning, designing, and implementing three unique online P.E. courses. In each of the different courses, students train at a distance in preparation for their final exams. The final exam is participation in either Grandma’s Marathon (running), NorthShore Inline Marathon (skating), or the American Birkebeiner (Nordic skiing). In the first year, 87 students signed up for these courses from forty different cities and five states. These are annual world-class events held in northern Minnesota and Wisconsin. To maintain time and space flexibility for online learners, they may complete the course requirements by participating in a similar event with instructor approval.

How this project is being recognized:
School newsletter and newspaper article.

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Lane Community College Health Clinic
by
Marie Matsen, Sandra Ing-Wiese, Dennis Carr, Mona Arbuckle, Duke Vandervort, and the health clinic staff

Winner Institution:
Lane Community College

Innovation Type:
Other: Serving the College Community

Description:
Lane Community College has chosen The Evolution of Student Health Services this year for the Innovation of the Year Award. In the spirit of the learning community, a healing community has evolved. We are keeping students healthy and in school, keeping employees productive, and reducing the financial burden of healthcare to Lane Community College, our insurance company, and the greater community. The vast changes in the clinic and the type of care provided were done with very little addition of FTE. The staff rebuilt many systems, streamlined procedures, and continued to involve more students and technology into the care system. Through increased efficiency, we have been able to continually improve the care that is provided while maintaining our original mission and values. In the spirit of the learning community, a healing community has evolved. When it is appropriate, we join resources with the Employee Wellness Program, Counseling Services, and Disability Services to provide op

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Enfermas en Escalera Program
by
Myrna Eshelman, Bertha Sepulveda, Ana Murphy, Carol O. Long, Ester Ruiz, Carol Hale, and Catherine Crary

Winner Institution:
Mesa Community College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
Enfermas en Escalera Program at Mesa Community College is recognized this year by Maricopa Community College District as the winning program for the Innovation of the Year Award. This is a fast-track for internationally-educated nurses, with United States residency, to obtain licensure as registered nurses (RN) in Arizona. The Program’s purpose is to improve their English skills, their cultural competency, and prepare them to succeed in passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. The E3 Program curriculum consists of 14 courses covering fundamentals in health care delivery, medical terminology, and nursing assisting principles. Students are concurrently enrolled in English as a Second Language to improve their English proficiency. The first cohort represented students from Cuba, France, Mexico, Nicaragua, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Vietnam.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

The Honors College
by
Miami Dade College Administration, Faculty, Staff and Students

Winner Institution:
Miami Dade College

Innovation Type:
Student Services and Activities

Description:
Miami-Dade Community College District recognized The Honors College this year’s Innovation of the Year Award. The Honors College at Miami Dade College is a place where goal-oriented, academically gifted students who meet stringent eligibility criteria can explore new ideas and engage in inspired creativity and intellectual collaborations with experienced faculty. The Honors College offers a rigorous curriculum with a challenging array of courses, seminars and enrichment activities. Leadership opportunities, internships, study travel tours and service learning activities further enhance intellectual and personal growth. Students interact with professionals, scholars, and leaders from around the world who share their expertise and experiences in business, science and the arts. This highly selective group of motivated students conducts and presents research projects and participates in debate teams and competitions at the state and national level. The Honors College Faculty have completed an eight hour certification workshop and serve as teaching faculty, mentors, and chaperones for study abroad opportunities. Additionally, faculty are identified on each campus as “Lead Faculty”. Their primary responsibility is to act as liaison between faculty and Honors Directors to ensure academic rigor and student success.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Democracy House
by
Carnell Staples, Jasmine Bundy, Patrick Donohue, Susana Castillo, Yicell Hodge

Winner Institution:
Middlesex County College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
Democracy House follows a unique service-learning model that aims to simultaneously develop the capacity of its students and its non-profit partners. The Center organizes students and faculty to provide each partner with a direct service team that addresses urgent needs, a community-based research project(s) that addresses strategic needs, and a training program that aims to strengthen the skills of staff and participants. This allows students, particularly those in the Bonner Leader Corps, to engage in increasingly challenging types of work and assume higher levels of responsibility during their one- to two-year term. It also maximizes community impact.

How this project is being recognized:
award ceremony, press release, inclusion in alumni magazine

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Science Extravaganza
by
Claudia Hinds, Margaret Wade

Winner Institution:
Midland College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
Recognizing the need to expose students to the fun of science, Science Extravaganza was conceived in 1992. Since its inception, participants in Extravaganza have grown from 50 to over 2000 ISD and 600 college students. All activities are "hands-on": examining themselves through distortion mirrors, examining objects through scanning electron microscope, guessing genotypes by observing phenotypes, touching fresh tissue, creating electrocardiogram readings, experimenting with forensic evidence, watching drug sniffing dogs work, playing math games and more. Science Extravaganza exposes people to a world they might not otherwise encounter. We have excited both Midland College and elementary students about science and math.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

A Comprehensive Approach to Classroom Technology Support
by
Stephanie Allen, Yvonne Betts, Diane DeHond, Delovis Olaode, Jeff Thompson, Paul Tracy, and Sharron Waide

Winner Institution:
Monroe Community College

Innovation Type:
Resource Development

Description:
The MCC Learning Resources Team has been recognized by Monroe Community College (MCC) for this year’s Innovation of the Year Award. The objective for the Educational Technology Services’ Learning Resources Team (LR) was to develop strategies that create an efficient and effective model for supporting faculty, staff, and students in these technology rich environments, and do so with a minimal increase in staff. In response to these needs, the team developed a comprehensive plan that focuses on innovative approaches to staffing, technology implementation, and training. The major elements and outcomes of this plan were: shift of responsibilities of student workers from the “AV” area to the Learning Resource Team, creation of smart classrooms, deployment of smart consoles to make “permanent portable” classrooms, piloting of PixiePro remote control system in classrooms, and faculty and staff support including Training Tracks and AV Hotline.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Montgomery County Community College County/School District Network
by
IT Infrastructure Team: Joe Mancini, Executive Director of Technical Services; Jim Stasik, Manager of Network Services; Celeste Schwartz, Vice President of Information Technology

Winner Institution:
Montgomery County Community College

Innovation Type:
Other: IT Infrastructure

Description:
In recent years the College found itself chasing increasing Internet bandwidth demands with annual circuit upgrades. As additional enterprise web-based systems became available, scalable remote access became a priority. As opposed to addressing this need in a vacuum, the College chose to evaluate solutions that provided additional resources. With the partnership of over 12 local school districts and the Montgomery County IT department, the College led the development of a regional private fiber network that now provides more than sufficient bandwidth to both Internet 1 and Internet 2, while also providing advanced networking capabilities between all partners. The network has delivered new content into the classroom while also efficiently solving the business need at hand.

How this project is being recognized:
Through the College's newsletter, "Big News", and an Innovation of the Year Recognition Breakfast

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

What All Student Development Employees Need to Know
by
Nancy Bentley, Jim Polo, Misha Turner and Holly Pilarczyk

Winner Institution:
Moraine Valley Community College

Innovation Type:
Resource Development

Description:
Moraine Valley Community College has chosen the “What All Student Development Employees Need to Know” document to receive this year’s Innovation of the Year Award. This document is a core body of information that was created to assist Student Development faculty and staff with providing students with current and accurate information in order for them to make successful transitions through the major student milestones (prospective student, applicant, first semester registrant, first year student, continuing student, graduate and life long learner/continuing student). The document is based on the four top Student Service process improvements that were selected by the Student Development Steering Team (Nancy Bentley, Jim Polo, Misha Turner) and were identified through the Title III Process Improvement Review during FY04, which are: providing students with accurate, current and updated information, communicating consistent information to students that facilitate the transition to the next stage, communicating between staff, and training on using existing resources for appropriate referrals.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

The Environmental Print Initiative for Visual Learners
by
Dr. Brent Knight

Winner Institution:
Morton College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
The Environmental Print Initiative for Visual Learners responds to the Latino preference and the coming-of-college-age-student penchant for visual learning. By implementing a network of informational/educational LCD screens and a series of environmental print wallpapers and classrooms around campus, the College sought to expand beyond traditional classrooms in delivery of learning: * 30 LCD Screens, with informational and educational content updated daily (includes news tickers, animated educational/informational presentations, and live news feeds). * 3 ‘environmental print classrooms’ with displays of educational materials that span the many walls of each classroom (subjects include The Civil War, The Great Depression, and Illinois Geography). * Several ‘environmental print wallpapers’ spread among campus hallways, with educational information for the student body (subjects include Famous Illinoisans, the history of namesakes of local roads, and local history).

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Making On-line Learning Interactive
by
Michael Enders

Winner Institution:
Northcentral Technical College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
Northcentral Technical College psychology instructor Mike Enders is working to make on-line learning a more interactive and social experience for learners. Enders says typical on-line courses are “very text driven” and lack an immersive element. Enders investigated and integrated several easy-to-use multi-media software packages that complement Blackboard, and is teaching colleagues how to use these tools. On-line courses at NTC now include immersive multimedia elements. He’s secured funding to construct a studio so instructors can capture “green screen” video and create edited flash video assets. Further work includes research on a 3-D MMOG interface. On-line student feedback is spectacular.

How this project is being recognized:
College Recognition Ceremony, Internal Newsletter, News Release

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

ICT Program Review Process
by
Anne Larson, Christina Tulloch-Woods, Dolma Dejikhangsar

Winner Institution:
SAIT Polytechnic

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
The Information and Communications Department Program Review Process was designed by the curriculum team in the ICT Department at SAIT. Initially, the intent of the process was to align course content, course outcomes and industry requirements. Through trial, error, research and reflection, the process has evolved into one where content is no longer the primary focus of the review: more important is the professional sharing that has ensued amongst faculty and the curriculum team and now includes conversations about assessment practices, program values, shifting instructional paradigms and overcoming barriers to student learning. Recommended changes are subsequently validated with industry for currency, quality and alignment with future developments. The Program Review Process is one way ICT is blazing a trail to comprehensive program imporvement and growth.

How this project is being recognized:
"News at SAIT" (newsletter); Award ceremony at "Celebrate SAIT Day"

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

The Kearny Fast Track Program
by
Constance Carroll, Rita Cepeda, Elizabeth Armstrong, Richard Rose, David M. Navarro, Ivonne Alvarez, Cheryl Seelos, and Dawn Swanson

Winner Institution:
San Diego Mesa College

Innovation Type:
Student Services and Activities

Description:
The Kearny Fast Track Program has been selected by San Diego Community College District as this year’s Innovation of the Year Award winner. The program is a unique partnership established between San Diego Mesa College and Stephen Watts Kearny High School. Kearny students participate in an eight hour college orientation that includes assessment for English and Math placement. The program includes Juniors with a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher and Seniors with a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher. Under the program Kearny’s high school students are able to enroll in college level general education courses to meet high school graduation requirements and to clear admission requirements to four year universities. The Fast Track program accommodates an average of 200 students per semester. During Spring semester the program matriculates an average of 40 early graduates as full time college students.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Online Hybrid Physical Therapist Assistant Program (PTA)
by
Wendy D. Bircher, Amy Cooper, Therese Millis

Winner Institution:
San Juan College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
In April 2004, the San Juan College Physical Therapist Assistant Program (PTA) received the first accreditation for an online hybrid PTA program in the United States. Since our program received the accreditation, the department has implemented program development with guidance from the Program Director, Dr. Wendy Bircher, PT, Ed.D and assistance from two full-time faculty members, Therese Millis, PT and Amy Cooper, DPT. Through this new and innovative program, we have improved the quality of education students can receive at San Juan College. This new program can provide a means for students working full-time to complete a degree as a physical therapist assistant. We have creatively presented hands-on material through WebCT and interactive CD-ROMS. In addition, this program can be replicated with the current format in other institutions. This program is being offered at a time when an online format is proving to meet a critical need in postsecondary education.

How this project is being recognized:
Newspaper article and newsletters, recognized by CAPTE who granted San Juan College first accreditation in the nation

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Educator Preparation Institute
by
Kristin Williams, Joan Suchorski, Lisa Gagne, and Robin Edwards

Winner Institution:
Santa Fe Community College

Innovation Type:
Workforce Preparation and Development

Description:
Santa Fe’s Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) provides students with Bachelor’s degrees a unique opportunity to train for careers as K-12 teachers in high-need subject areas, including Reading, Math, and Science. The EPI offers an efficient, cost-effective, and creative way to address the growing teacher shortage. The program recruits non-traditional students to a career in teaching, offering the high quality training necessary for successful certification. Thanks to an unprecedented statewide agreement, the non-credit EPI students can transfer their coursework to any other Florida community college EPI program. Students have flocked to Santa Fe’s program, doubling projected first year enrollment, and the dedication of faculty and students has led to remarkable retention. This summer, the college’s EPI will graduate its first 18 students, with another 40 to follow within the next year.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Health Care Education Institute
by
Carin Weiss, Mary Ellen O’Keeffe, Cheryl Roberts, Collette Swan, Jan West, Nancy Verheyden, Sean Kane, LeRoy Drake, and Cynthia Felice

Winner Institution:
Seattle Community Colleges

Innovation Type:
Workforce Preparation and Development

Description:
Seattle is a national center for health care, with institutions that are recognized across the country for breakthrough medicine and research. The Seattle Community Colleges, in partnership with representatives from the region’s leading health care providers, developed the Health Care Education Institute to provide multiple entry points and career progression in more than 30 allied health programs. Also, the Seattle Community Colleges competed successfully for funding to expand training capacity, and in Fall 2005, were awarded a $2.8 million Community-Based Job Training Grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. The three-year grant supports training for more than 700 individuals, with student recruitment focused on incumbent workers, youth, veterans and people of color. Curriculum innovations include concurrent instruction in technical skills and language for students with limited English, to both expedite their entry into the workforce and to prepare them for additional education.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Biology of Forensics: CSI in the classroom
by
Barbara Hunnicutt

Winner Institution:
Seminole Community College

Innovation Type:
Learning and Teaching

Description:
SCC Biology Professor Barbara Hunnicutt observed a phenomenon during her 27 years of teaching – non-major science students were either disinterested or afraid to enroll in science courses for fear of failure. Hunnicutt decided to create a course to engage even the most timid student and still provide a solid science-based curriculum. Based on the popular TV show CSI (Crime Scene Investigation), she designed a Biology of Forensics course. However, when she searched for a text and lab manual from which to teach, she discovered it did not exist. Instead of giving up, Hunnicutt simply adapted a criminalistics text and wrote the lab manual herself, centering each lab on the real-world application of biology in tpoics like DNA analysis; blood, hair, and bone samples; entomology; and fingerprinting. Her course has become extremely popular at the College, and students often find themselves embracing concepts typically found on the graduate level.

How this project is being recognized:
Newspaper Article

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Student Success Plan
by
Pamela Combs, Yvonne Dorsett, Letha Houston, Mary Jenkins, Debra Moody and Pat Schlaerth

Winner Institution:
Sinclair Community College

Innovation Type:
Student Services and Activities

Description:
The Student Success Plan is Sinclair Community College’s choice for the 2006 Innovation of the Year Award. Sinclair’s primary student retention strategy is the Student Success Plan—a comprehensive model to increase success, retention, and graduation rates of high-risk students. It includes the Individual Learning Plan and Counseling Action Plan in a holistic counseling and intervention system. Through a case management approach, counseling, and web-based support system, high-risk students are identified, supported, and monitored. A comprehensive student-tracking system allows the college to collect and analyze data as well as monitor trends. Counselors assess and assist high-risk students with choosing college majors or career goals, developing plans to pay educational expenses, identifying resources to help them succeed, reviewing strategies to improve learning and study skills, registering for classes, and developing Individual Learning Plans.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Disaster Recovery Web Site for SE Iowa Citizens
by
Katrina Relief Committee - consists of faculty, staff, students and community members

Winner Institution:
Southeastern Community College

Innovation Type:
Resource Development: Collaboration with governmental bodies

Description:
Southeastern Community College (SCC) organized a Katrina Relief Committee following the hurricane disaster that devastated the states of Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi. The committee developed a “Disaster Recovery” Web site that provides information and resources for the citizens of Southeast Iowa and other areas impacted by disasters. SCC faculty, staff and student interns worked with the Emergency Management Coordinators from each of the four counties in the region to design the site. The Web site originally focused on the Katrina Relief efforts but has transitioned to support future disasters and relief efforts. The Web site can be accessed at www.scciowa.edu/disasterinformation

How this project is being recognized:
Newspaper Article, Technology Newsletter, Community Presentations

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Intrusive Approaches to Student Success and Retention
by
Dr. Patricia Leonard, Dr. Carol Nowakowski

Winner Institution:
St. Clair County Community College

Innovation Type:
Student Services and Activities

Description:
St. Clair County Community College has initiated an intrusive developmental student support and retention model. The model was developed in 2005 with input from the newly formed Student Success and Retention Committee which is a cross functional team of faculty and staff that relied upon internal data and best practices. The model combines a variety of integrated academic and student services to support college initiatives. This model includes an integration of high touch/high technology in academic support, enrollment management, and career/ advising services. Academic initiatives include Early Alert, identification of high-risk courses, PLATO alignment to courses, and a Career Spotlight Program. Enrollment Management strategies include online orientation, reconnecting with stop-outs, and degree completion audits. Intrusive advising includes Career and Academic Plans for Success (CAPS) focused on individualized career and educational goals to include mentorship with Alumni.

How this project is being recognized:
Newsletters, Campus Connection (internal), College Connection (students and staff), and college website.

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Mass CPR Training Program
by
Mary Fakes and Philishea Ingram

Winner Institution:
St. Louis Community College - Forest Park

Innovation Type:
Resource Development

Description:
St. Louis Community College honored the Mass CPR Training Program submitted by Mary Fakes and Philishea Ingram with this year’s Innovation of the Year Award. Mass CPR training is the training of large numbers of people simultaneously in CPR, typically done in one day. Mass CPR represents one solution to the growing demand for CPR education in the United States. Effective bystander CPR that is provided immediately after cardiac arrest can double a victim’s chance of survival. Although the notion of training large numbers of participants is not new, its implementation on a national scale has been limited. St. Louis Community College and its partners, the American Heart Association and the St. Louis Fire Department, took the initiative to implement a unique approach to offering CPR to the college community.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Recycled Sprung Structure: Student Activities Center
by
David H. Devier, Peggy Chalker, Mick McLaughlin

Winner Institution:
University of Cincinnati Clermont College

Innovation Type:
Student Services and Activities

Description:
Clermont College is a regional branch campus of the University of Cincinnati. During 2005 the College was successful in acquiring a large (88' x 200') sprung structure from the main campus which had been used for 2-1/2 years as a temporary food court. Once all planning was completed in early 2005, construction began to re-erect the structure on the Clermont campus to serve as the College's gym / wellness facility. A total of 1.4 million dollars was expended which encompassed all structural, mechanical, and finishes including a competition wood athletic floor, goals, and bleachers. The recycled structure was dedicated on October 4, 2005, and has been an amazingly successful addition to the campus. The fact that the structure was brought on-line in less than eight months from beginning of construction and at less than one half the cost of even the lowest end conventional construction makes it a laudable innovation solution.

How this project is being recognized:
Held Dedication, inaurgural games, much PR already

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

The ACTION Center
by
Tracy Whitt, Lee Adams, Lisa Harris, Teresa Mahler, Dr. Bill Moss, Amy Shaw, Laura Smallwood, Cherie Smith, and Deborah Spann

Winner Institution:
Wallace State Community College-Hanceville

Innovation Type:
Student Services and Activities

Description:
The ACTION Center co-locates student services at Wallace State Community College involving advising, testing, registering, and orienting students. A dynamic group of learner-centered administrators, counselors, and support personnel collaborate with division heads, program directors, and faculty to help students discover, articulate, and successfully attain their learning goals. The ACTION Center counselors also serve as faculty for mandatory orientation courses for all in-coming freshman, pursuing best practices through the exploration of student learning styles, the infusion of instructional technologies, and the creation of innovative learning options. The ACTION Center staff are actively involved in College-sponsored professional development opportunities as facilitators and participants, they volunteer as presenters at state and national conferences, and they serve on various committees that support the College's Learning College Initiative.

How this project is being recognized:
We are recognizing this project in an awards ceremony, in a newspaper article, and in a campus newsletter.

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other

Health Benefits Improvement Team
by
Denise Vujnovich, Lori Freit-Hammes, Leslie Clatworthy

Winner Institution:
Western Wisconsin Technical College

Innovation Type:
Other: Planning, Governance, Finance

Description:
The Health Benefits Improvement Team (HBIT) is comprised of 12 union and management members from across the college, plus an outside insurance consultant to help find solutions to increasing healthcare costs. Their mission is threefold: health care cost containment; benefit composition; a Population Health Management program to improve health and quality of life for employees, spouses, retirees, and dependents. The end goal was to maintain the quality of our health care options, while helping to reduce health care costs, improve the health of, and increase awareness within the population. Our results thus far have been measurable. We are self insured rather than fully-insured, experiencing only an 8% increase in health insurance premiums compared to 18% the previous year and a 12 to 15% national trend. We have also been able to affect our local market, asking for what we need rather than accepting what is offered by soliciting bids from vendors outside our area.

How this project is being recognized:

The criteria this project has met
Quality	Efficiency
Cost Effectiveness	Creativity
Timeliness	Replication
Other