BMCC Welcomes New Faculty to College
On August 21, BMCC hosted a reception for the more than 25 new faculty members joining the college this year. The new professors bring expertise in areas ranging from STEM fields, to Liberal Arts areas such as English, Music & Art and Teacher Education. BMCC Interim President Karrin E. Wilks said "We cannot significantly improve student success and strengthen our culture of care without pervasive faculty leadership—particularly pedagogical leadership to improve learning and advance equity.”

BMCC Students Earn Kaplan Scholarship
Two BMCC students have been named 2019 Kaplan Scholars by the Kaplan Educational Foundation. The Kaplan program helps underrepresented low-income students complete associate degree programs then transfer and earn bachelor’s degrees from the nation’s top four-year institutions. BMCC psychology major Christina Persona and engineering science major Abubakar Yussif, join the 21 other CUNY community college students selected for this year's cohort. BMCC has had a productive relationship with the Kaplan Foundation for 13 years.

Professors Receive Funding for Research BMCC Assistant Professors in Social Sciences, Human Services and Criminal Justice Henry Bulley (Lead PI) and Brenda Vollman (CoPI), who along with Laxmi Ramasubramanian, Associate Professor of Urban Policy and Planning from Hunter College (CoPI) were recently selected to receive funding through the CUNY Interdisciplinary Research Grant (IRG) program for the period August 1, 2019 – July 31, 2020. The team received a $38,900 grant for their research titled, “Experiences, Attitudes, and Policy Drivers Shaping Bottled Water Use in New York City.”

Group Study Room Opens at Library
BMCC's former Quiet Study room at the A. Philip Randolph Library, S-430, has been renovated and is now being used for tutoring, mentoring and studying in groups. The library, S-410 has been designated as a quiet study area. "The newly renovated group study room in S-430 (formerly quiet study) provides students with a bright, open space to work in groups, receive tutoring, and meet with mentors,” said Kathleen Dreyer, chief librarian, A. Philip Randolph Library. "Having these educational activities in a separate room from the Library will ensure that the Library is truly a quiet space for study, reflection, and relaxation."

BMCC Students Reflect on Time Volunteering in Puerto Rico
On August 15, the Office of Student Affairs hosted a reception for BMCC students that were part of a larger cohort of CUNY students who went to Puerto Rico to help repair and re-build roofs damaged or destroyed by the 2017 Hurricane Maria. The service learning experience also included participation in local cultural activities, visits to historical sites as well as meetings with professors and students from Puerto Rico.

Panther Partners Welcomes Students
On Aug. 21, BMCC Panther Partners welcomed more than 160 students to its orientation event. The Panther Partners program is designed specifically for students at BMCC who are the first in their families to attend college. Developed by the BMCC Office of New Student Programs and the Office of Student Affairs, the program provides students with a mentor—“panther coach”— who offers personal support and encouragement, throughout their time at BMCC. Student participants are selected through an application process, then paired with BMCC faculty and staff whom are also first-generation college students. Panther Partners also has a number of mandatory workshops that cover a myriad of topics including: Academic Achievement through Academic Advisement, Knowing your Finances and Goal Setting and Asking for Help.

Interim President Wilks Appointed to AACC Commission Karrin E. Wilks, Interim President of BMCC, recently accepted her appointment to the Commission on Student Success of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). Wilks’ appointment comes at a time when BMCC continues to enhance and introduce new efforts to support BMCC’s culture of care fostering student success, both academically and personally. The AACC does not usually appoint people in interim status; however, Wilks received a one-year appointment from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020.

Fundraising Committees Established to Commemorate Contributions from Bragg and Anderson Last academic year, BMCC lost two beloved colleagues—Sadie Bragg, previously the Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Scott Anderson, Vice President for Administration and Finance. To commemorate their deep and passionate commitment to Borough of Manhattan Community College, we have established committees to raise funds to dedicate spaces on campus in their names. Marva Craig, Vice President of Student Affairs will lead the effort to name the Mathematics Lab in Sadie’s honor (building on funds already donated for this purpose), and John Montanez, Dean of the Office of Sponsored Programs, will lead the effort to name a room in Fiterman in Scott’s honor. To help in these efforts, please contact VP Craig at mcraig@bmcc.cuny.edu or Ext. 8132; Dean Montanez at jmontanez@bmcc.cuny.edu or Ext. 8011 or the Development Office at Ext. 8020.

Off Campus Library Access Changing
The A. Phillip Randolph Library has improved its off-campus resource access. Instead of using BMCC user names and passwords, the barcode on the back of the BMCC ID card will be used to log on. The barcode starts with the numbers 214. This change is in effect as of August 27, 2019. Please contact us with any questions or concerns at library@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Faculty and Staff: Refer Students With Enrollment Needs to the New Panther Station
Since its soft launch on July 23, almost 4,000 students who needed to visit the BMCC Admissions Office, Registrar’s Office or Financial Aid Office took care of their needs in one central location — The Panther Station. This spacious, light-filled office just past the Information Center in the main lobby at 199 Chambers Street provides dedicated staff who welcome students by guiding them to download on their phones, a virtual line management tool, QLess. Once signed up, the students receive text messages updating them on their place in line and when it’s their turn to meet with an Enrollment Specialist. As an added perk while they’re waiting, students can use the self-service computer stations to print forms they might need.

Proposals for CUNY IT Conference Due September 25
Academics and administrators are invited to submit proposals for the 18th annual CUNY IT Conference, set for December 5 and 6 at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY. This year’s conference, “Bridging Gaps,” will explore how technology can help overcome barriers to learning, and novel approaches using technology across CUNY. Presentation proposals are due by September 15 at 5 p.m. For more information, click here.

Learning Resource Center (LRC) Brings Out Students' Strengths Faculty and staff, let your students know they can sign up to meet with an academic coach who will provide time management, note-taking and test-taking strategies. Students can also ask staff at the LRC, in Room S-510 at 199 Chambers Street, to connect them with a certified BMCC tutor, in person or online. Visit the LRC website for more information and events.

BMCC Students, Faculty and Staff: Free 9/11 Information Seminar
A free informational seminar sponsored by the law firm Barasch & McGarry is scheduled on Monday, September 16, from 6 to 8 p.m., in the BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, Theater 1, 199 Chambers Street. Were you living, working, or a student in Lower Manhattan on 9/11, or any time during the eight months that followed? Congress has extended the free World Trade Center Health Program and the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund for 72 years. We are advised that all downtown residents and office workers, as well as students, faculty and staff are eligible. You are welcome to attend the seminar to learn more about the benefits you are entitled to, whether or not you have been diagnosed with any serious illnesses, and to learn about how to protect your rights now. PLEASE NOTE: This free informational seminar is sponsored by the law firm of Barasch & McGarry. BMCC’s rental of this venue and communications concerning this event does not constitute an endorsement of the firm. All advice and representations made at the event are those of the speakers and not of CUNY or BMCC. To reserve free tickets, call (212) 220-1460 or download tickets online.

New Work Order System Implemented at BMCC
The Office of Campus Planning and Facilities has launched the Archibus Work Order system, which will allow designated individuals in each campus department to submit work orders and track the progress of the request. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Planning and Facilities by email and include “Archibus Work Order System” in the subject line.

Plaza Reconstruction Project Update
As part of the Plaza Reconstruction project at BMCC, abatement of hazardous materials identified in the underlayment of the existing pavers will be performed during phases of the construction project. This activity, which began January 21, is regulated by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, which ensures the safe and proper removal and disposal of these materials. Abatement notifications posted on all building entrances are part of these requirements and are there to inform the occupants of these activities. The required notices are not meant to alarm building occupants, but to keep everyone informed that the work will be performed in a safe and regulated manner. We apologize for any inconvenience this construction may cause as we work to improve our facilities. For more information, contact Eric Lugo at elugo@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Bathroom Renovation Update: Phase 5
BMCC has undertaken a comprehensive 26-bathroom renovation project at the Chambers Street building. The project’s focus is to provide greater accessibility, ventilation and temperature control systems. Upgrades include new stalls, floors, fixtures, ceilings and lighting. Renovations have been completed in the north side bathrooms, and those in the south side will be finished in Fall 2019. BMCC has begun Phase 5 (final phase) of renovations, affecting the restrooms located on the far south end of 199 Chambers Street building, on all seven floors. For more information, contact Eric Lugo at elugo@bmcc.cuny.edu.

Pell Grants at BMCC
Eighty percent of BMCC beginning full-time undergraduate students received Pell grant money in the 2017-2018 academic year. A comparison to the overall undergraduate population of Pell recipients is provided in the graph. More information can be found on the National Center for Educational Statistics BMCC page. Data can also be found on the BMCC Institutional Effectiveness and Analytics facts and statistics page.

There’s still time for students to register for Fall 2019
Please be sure to remind students to register for Fall 2019. Things to know: 1) All students must meet with an advisor before registering. 2) Students can register on CUNYfirst or visit Lab Services in Room S-114. For more info, visit the Registration page, contact Academic Advisement in Room S-108 or call (212) 220-8315.

A few important dates
First Day of Fall 2019 Classes — August 27
Last Day to Add/Change a Class — September 2
For more information, visit the Registration page, or visit Academic Advisement in Room S-108, 199 Chambers Street, or call (212) 220-8315.

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, check the Admissions website, or contact the Admissions Office, (212) 220-1265.

Say Hello to the Admissions Office on Social Media
The BMCC Admissions Office has launched social media accounts. We appreciate your likes, follows and thumbs up. Facebook: @bmccadmissions Twitter: @bmccadmissions Instagram: @bmccadmissions Snapchat:@explorebmcc

University of Montana educators take lessons from CUNY accelerated programs
August 21—The Missoulian

BMCC student talks about importance of diversity on campus
August 16—Sidney Herald

BMCC Employees: Free flu shots available BMCC faculty and staff can get their flu shot at work this fall. Make an appointment for your worksite flu shot here (type in Username: nyc Password: flu). To schedule your worksite appointment over the phone, call 866-481-4391. Download your consent form here and bring it to your appointment to save time. If you can’t make it to the clinic, free flu shots are also available at participating pharmacies and in-network medical offices. For more information, visit nyc.gov/workwellnyc or contact Lori Mazzola at lmazzola@bmcc.cuny.edu, visit her in Room S-717 or call her at Ext. 7063.

Help Available to Quit Smoking New York City government supports efforts to quit smoking. CUNY employees and household members can enroll in the Employee Smoking Cessation Program (ESCAPE) and receive personalized, confidential counseling and smoking cessation medications for free. Learn more here. Call (347) 396-4403 to enroll. The New York City Health Department's mobile app NYC HelpMeQuit is a free resource to help you quit smoking. Download NYC HelpMeQuit for Android or iOS.

Deer Oaks EAP Now Offers Phone and Video Counseling
As part of BMCC's Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Deer Oaks offers organizational training, skills development, crisis management, wellness workshops and other services including video, structured telephonic and in-person counseling. Employees can schedule calls with a counselor in advance by calling (855) 492-3633 or emailing eap@deeroaks.com.

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).

Audition for BMCC Music Ensembles
August 25-September 7

Information Session for Free IT Computer Network Training
August 26

International Coffee Hour: Fall Welcome
September 5

	BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center Listings		Center for Career Development Events
	Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning and Scholarship Events		Center for Continuing Education and Workforce Development Events

Interested in Playing for the BMCC Baseball Team?

Men's Basketball Tryouts September 27
Women's Basketball Tryouts, September 30 - October 1

Women's Volleyball Unveils 2019 Regular Season Schedule
Men's Soccer Reveals 2019 Regular Season Schedule

Community Swim Program Open The BMCC swimming pool welcomes community swimmers, ages 18 and up. Lockers are available. Bring your own lock and towel. Entrances are at 199 Chambers Street and 77 Harrison Street. For fees and registration, contact the BMCC Athletic Department, (212) 220-8260 or the BMCC Center for Continuing Education and Workforce Development, (212) 346-8410.

Summer 2019 Recreation Schedule
BMCC students, faculty and staff are eligible to enjoy the cardiovascular and strength equipment (treadmills, free weights and more) in the BMCC Fitness Center with current BMCC ID. BMCC alumni are eligible with an alumni ID. Volleyball and other activities are also available in the BMCC Athletic Facilities.

@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.