News

2020 Winter Convocation January 22 Features Guest Speakers David Kirkland and Kirsten Grant Faculty and staff are invited to join the conversation on teaching and learning in support of student success at the 2020 Winter Convocation,"Culturally Responsive and Sustaining Engagement," January 22 in Theatre One at 199 Chambers Street. The keynote speaker is David E. Kirkland, Ph.D., J.D., executive director of The NYU Metropolitan Center for Research on Equity and the Transformation of Schools. Featured guest speaker is Kirsten Grant, Ph.D., clinical professor of chemistry at Hunter College. Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m. Next is the speaker program, then working sessions from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. followed by a reception. Please RSVP here. Attendees are encouraged to post photos on social media using #BMCCWinterConvo2020

CUNY Establishes Committee for BMCC Presidential Search CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodriguez announced on January 13 that CUNY has established a search committee comprised of CUNY trustees, tenured faculty, senior administrators, students, alumni and others to select the next BMCC president.

$3.15 Million Mellon Foundation Grant Goes to The Graduate Center, CUNY to Support Humanities Teaching Initiative
The Graduate Center of The City University of New York has been awarded a second $3.15 million grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to expand the CUNY Humanities Alliance, a program designed to engage doctoral students in supporting humanities education at community colleges. The CUNY Humanities Alliance, which began as a partnership with LaGuardia Community College, will expand to include Borough of Manhattan Community College, Guttman Community College, and Hostos Community College. “The CUNY Humanities Alliance will provide another mechanism through which to build on the innovative and engaging work of our faculty, and to prepare the next generation of pedagogical leadership at community colleges,” said Karrin E. Wilks, Interim President of BMCC.

Transitions and Transactions V: Teaching Literature Among the Arts Conference, April 24-25  BMCC is hosting the Transitions and Transactions V: “Teaching Literature Among the Arts” conference April 24-25 at 199 Chambers Street. Register Now! Nearly 10 years after the first Transactions and Transitions conference, BMCC is pleased to invite professors from across CUNY and beyond to continue this discussion uniquely dedicated to the teaching of literature in community colleges. This year’s theme, “Teaching Literature Among the Arts,” was suggested by past conference presentations, dialogue with colleagues and classroom practices. This year’s keynote speakers are Dawn Lundy Martin; a poet, essayist, and conceptual video artist, and Will Alexander; a poet, novelist, playwright, essayist, aphorist, visual artist and pianist now writing his 40th book.

Spring 2020 BMCC Commons Highlights Technology, Funded Research and More This issue of the bi-annual BMCC Commons, produced by the Office of Public Affairs, highlights the efforts of faculty and staff to build student success through grant-funded research, national student competitions, technology-enhanced instruction and more.

Pete the Cat Next in BMCC Tribeca PAC's 2019-2020 Family Season BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center proudly presents on February 22 at 11 a.m., TheaterWork's Pete the Cat for children ages three through eight. To purchase tickets, $30 or $14 for 10Club Members, call Ticketing Services (212) 220-1460, visit online or stop by the BMCC TPAC Box Office at 199 Chambers Street, Tuesday through Saturday, from 12 to 6 p.m.

BMCC TPAC Presents Afro-Cuban Jazz Band MIXCLA On February 22 at 7:30 p.m., the BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center (BMCC TPAC) presents MIXCLA, an Afro-Cuban jazz ensemble and finalist of the DC Jazz Festival's emerging band competition. Tickets are $30, or $20 for students and seniors, and can be purchased online, by calling (212) 220-1460 or visiting the BMCC TPAC Box Office at 199 Chambers Street, Tuesday through Saturday from 12 to 6 p.m.

Announcements

Submit your BALLOT for the 2019-2020 Employee Appreciation Awards BMCC students, faculty and staff, show your appreciation for staff (non-faculty) members who demonstrate outstanding achievement, performance and creative contributions through their role at BMCC, beyond what is normally expected of employees. SUBMIT ONE nomination in each category: Leadership, Inspiration, Innovation/ Technology, Rookie of the Year and Team Achievement. Employees have one chance to submit their ballot. Make it count by filling in a thoughtful, detailed nomination by no later than May 1.

Promote Your Events on the BMCC Web Calendar and Social Media
A friendly reminder: If your department, office or unit is hosting a campus event, make sure to include it in the BMCC web calendar. The calendar listing will enable you to promote your event to members of the on-campus community and beyond. Don’t forget to share your event listing on your social media using the hashtag: #BMCC.​ The Office of Public Affairs is available to assist with placing your events on the BMCC web calendar and promoting them effectively through social media. Contact the Office of Public Affairs at publicaffairs@bmcc.cuny.edu or (212) 346-8501 for assistance.

Students: Apply for NSF Research Opportunity by March 1 The National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program at BMCC offers paid summer internships for qualified undergraduate students to conduct biology research projects with BMCC scientists. Funded by the NSF, the program offers BMCC and non-BMCC students the opportunity to research the bioactivity of natural products at different biological levels of organization; for example, the potential antioxidant capacity of natural plant products; the effects of natural extracts on growth and development of organisms; the regulation of genes involved in cellular differentiation; the potential protective effects on mammalian cells, and the use of plant polymers in the removal of heavy metals. Students will receive a $4,600 stipend, a housing allowance of $1,200, a MetroCard and daily meals. Spaces are limited. APPLY NOW!

Website Directory Listings
Faculty, staff and students, please note that BMCC Directory content is generated through CUNYfirst. Staff members are listed by divisions and departments defined by CUNY. If there is a change in an employee’s status (for example, left BMCC or changed departments), please contact BMCC Human Resources to confirm the information has been entered in CUNYfirst. If it still is not appearing in the directory, contact the Service Desk, servicedesk@bmcc.cuny.edu.

CUNY in the Heights Expansion Improves Learning Environment BMCC at CUNY in the Heights, 5030 Broadway between 213th and 214th Streets in Manhattan, will be closed for renovations to improve classroom spaces, technology and accessibility for students while adding 15,000 square feet and doubling the number of classrooms. Also, new courses will be offered through BMCC, the Manhattan Educational Opportunity Center and BMCC’s Center for Continuing Education and Workforce Development. Visit BMCC Off-site Programs to learn about course offerings at 199 Chambers Street and Off-site Programs. Students can speak with an advisor at (212) 220-8315 or eadvisement@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Is Your Department Interested in Hiring a Work-Study Student? Many BMCC students are employed part-time on campus through the Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program. This helps cover their educational expenses, removes the cost and time of commuting for an off-campus job and provides experience in students' field of interest. If your department is interested in hiring FWS students, please complete and return the FWS Rights & Responsibilities form. For more information, contact Melissa Jardine, mjardine@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Campus Planning and Facilities

Elevator Programming Changes at Fiterman Hall To improve the BMCC experience and in response to occupant feedback, the Fiterman Hall elevator banks perform as follows: Open stairs and escalators: Lower level and floors 2, 3, 4. Mid-Rise bank elevators: Floors 5, 6, 7, 8. High-Rise bank elevators: Floors 9, 10, 11, 12. Elevators for people with disabilities stop at all floors.

Report Non-Emergency Building Needs Through Archibus Work Order System
Individuals selected as their department's Archibus Work Order liaison can quickly alert the BMCC Buildings and Grounds team to non-emergency building needs ranging from a light bulb that needs replacing to equipment malfunctions. To report an emergency, call (212) 220-8025, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After business hours, call Public Safety, (212) 220-8080. To report hazardous conditions after 5 p.m., call the engineer on duty, (212) 220-8034. If you have questions or concerns, contact Buildings and Grounds, b&g@bmcc.cuny.edu, subject line: “Archibus Work Order System.”

Plaza Reconstruction Project Update
As part of the Plaza Reconstruction project at BMCC, abatement of hazardous materials in the underlayer of the existing pavers will be performed and notifications posted on all building entrances. This activity is regulated by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, which ensures safe, proper removal of these materials. For more information, contact Eric Lugo at elugo@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Bathroom Renovation Now Complete January 13 marked the completion of a critical capital project. All bathrooms on the south end of 199 Chambers Street are now open, culminating efforts led by the BMCC Office of Buildings and Grounds in conjunction with CUNY and their construction/design team. The bathrooms were renovated in compliance with ADA requirements and to improve their functionality and aesthetics. We recognize that renovations can inconvenience the campus community and appreciate your understanding as we continue to improve our facilities.

Enrollment

New Student In-Person Advisement and Registration: January 13-24
Enrollment Services staff are excited to welcome new BMCC students and help ensure their enrollment for Spring 2020. Advisement and Registration is Monday through Thursday, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students will check in at Theatre 1, 199 Chambers Street. Note: College Closed on Monday, January 20. For more information, contact Academic Advisement at 199 Chambers Street, Room S-108 or call (212) 220-8315.

There’s Still Time For Continuing Students to Register for Spring 2020
Please encourage students to continue on their path to success and register for Spring 2020. Things to know: All students must meet with their advisor before registering. Students can register on CUNYfirst or visit Lab Services at 199 Chambers Street, Room S-114. Advisement is also available via Skype and email. For more information, visit the Registration page, contact Academic Advisement at 199 Chambers Street, Room S-108, call (212) 220-8315 or email eadvisement@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Federal Student Aid and Other Financial Assistance Available
If you know a student who is delaying registration because of tuition concerns, please share these options: 1) Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Apply now to maximize the amount of money received. 2) Visit the Panther Station in Room S-225 to speak with a financial aid specialist. 3) Apply for a scholarship. 4) Contact the Center for Career Development for job placement assistance at 199 Chambers Street, Room S-342, career@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Admissions and Financial Aid Info Sessions 
Prospective students are invited to attend information sessions for an overview of BMCC and the admissions and financial aid process. They can also take part in a Q & A with admissions and financial aid specialists. For more information, contact the Admissions Office, (212) 220-1265.

Say Hello to the Admissions Office on Social Media
We appreciate your likes, follows and thumbs up.
Facebook: @bmccadmissions; Twitter: @bmccadmissions; Instagram: @bmccadmissions; Snapchat:@explorebmcc

A Few Important Dates

Making Headlines

Performer and BMCC alumna Cardi B announces interest in running for Congress
January 14, 2020 —Newburgh Gazette, Fox News, The Washington Post, CNN Entertainment, Huffington Post, Washington Examiner

BMCC TPAC Highlights in Jazz program announced
January 8, 2020 — Broadway World

BMCC alumna student competing in Miss New York pageant
January 14, 2020 — Riverhead News-Review

Human Resources

CUNY Holiday: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, January 20
Monday, January 20 is a CUNY holiday for most employees. Instructional and managerial staff are excused without charge to leave balances. Blue and white collar, and skilled trades employees will observe a regularly scheduled holiday. Hourly employees will be paid for time worked.

Work Well NYC Toning and Conditioning Classes are Back
Faculty and staff can participate in Work Well NYC toning and conditioning classes January 27 through March 23 from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. in the BMCC gym at 199 Chambers Street. For more information, contact Lori Mazzola at lmazzola@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Office of Payroll Administration of NYC Provides W-2 2019 Information
The Office of Payroll Administration NYC provides a W-2 Quick Reference Guide and other information for CUNY employees.

CUNY Employees: Mandatory Annual E-SPARC for the 2019-2020 Academic Year In compliance with New York State law, all full- and part-time CUNY employees, even those who completed an in-person training, must complete an annual online Employee Sexual and Interpersonal Violence Prevention and Response Course (E-SPARC). Please log into CUNY Blackboard to complete the course. Make sure to disable pop-up blockers and use a Firefox or Google Chrome browser when taking the training. For more information, contact Maria Deckinger, mdeckinger@bmcc.cuny.edu or Loriann Mazzola,  lmazzola@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Transitioning to Retirement? Seminars and Videos Help Clarify Health Benefits
BMCC employees planning for retirement are invited to view Transitioning to Retiree Health Benefits videos, Part One and Part Two.

CUNY Employees: Mandatory Workplace Violence Training In compliance with New York State Law, all part-time BMCC faculty and staff were required to complete Workplace Violence Training for the 2019-2020 academic year by December 18; full-time employees by May 20, 2020. The course is accessible via CUNY Blackboard. Employees are also required to review the Campus Specific Information Supplement relating to each of their CUNY campus work sites. For help disabling pop-up blockers or other assistance, contact Maria Deckinger, mdeckinger@bmcc.cuny.edu, (212) 220-1496 or Lori Mazzola, lmazzola@bmcc.cuny.edu, (212) 776-7063. For general questions, contact ViolencePrevention.Training@cuny.edu.

Alumni and Donors

Support Memorial Funds  Last academic year, BMCC lost two beloved colleagues — Sadie Bragg, retired Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Scott Anderson, retired Vice President for Administration and Finance. To commemorate their deep and passionate commitment to BMCC, we have established memorial funds to raise money in support of naming opportunities of areas located on the BMCC campus. Make a donation today online and select a memorial fund under the “Designation” option. THANK YOU for your support!

Charitable Giving Through an IRA
Donors at least 70½ years old can take advantage of a simple way to satisfy minimum required distribution and benefit BMCC students at the same time. Donate up to $100,000 from an IRA directly to the BMCC Foundation without having to pay federal income taxes. Please contact Phillip Keefe, Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving, (212) 346-8650 or pkeefe@bmcc.cuny.edu for additional information.

Alumni Invited to Connect and Network BMCC Alumni Affairs provides alumni benefits and services, as well as involving alumni in the advancement and support of BMCC. Alumni are invited to special events, profiled in BMCC publications and welcomed into the vibrant community that is BMCC. For more information, contact Yaritza Gonzalez, Manager of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund, (212) 346-8455 or ygonzalez@bmcc.cuny.edu

Make a Difference in Students’ Lives: Faculty and Staff Campaign
The faculty and staff of BMCC support our students in countless ways, every single day. That support includes contributing to the BMCC Foundation Scholarship Fund. Your support of the Faculty and Staff Campaign makes a significant difference in our students’ lives. There are three easy ways to give: Make a donation online.

• Text your donation to BMCC at (646) 876-2622.
• Send your check, payable to the BMCC Foundation, via interoffice mail to the Office of College Development, F-1330. (Please note, you can designate your donation to your department).

Calendar

Free Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Training
January 10 - 17

Study Abroad and Scholarships Information Session January 22, January 31, February 6 and February 11

Theatre Department Auditions for Musical: “The Cigar Girl”
January 21

F-1 International Student Orientation
January 22

Panther Pride

BMCC Baseball Tryouts
Thursday, January 30 (BMCC Gym)

ASA Manhattan Rallies for 81-72 Victory Over Panthers

Panther Women Toppled by #5 Hostos on the Road Thursday

Women's Basketball, Upcoming Games
January 21: BMCC vs. Monroe College (Bronx, NY)
January 23: BMCC vs. Suffolk County Community College (Selden, NY)
January 25: BMCC vs. Hostos Community College (BMCC gym)

Men's Basketball, Upcoming Games 
January 21: BMCC vs. Monroe College (Bronx, NY)
January 23: BMCC vs. Suffolk County Community College (Selden, NY)
January 25: BMCC vs. Hostos Community College (BMCC gym)

Connect with BMCC

@BMCC is produced and published by the Office of Public Affairs.

Faculty and staff: Submit items for consideration in an upcoming @BMCC to publicaffairs@bmcc.cuny.edu by 12 noon, Wednesday.