BMCC Welcomes Students for Fall 2019 Semester
On August 27, BMCC welcomed approximately 25,000 students to the college for the Fall 2019 semester. With its more than 50 degree programs, BMCC is alive with ideas and innovation, and supportive of the innate human striving for self-improvement. Among the students in the hallways of Fiterman Hall was first-time freshman and criminal justice major Elaine Marmolejos, who worked for a few years at a Midtown Starbucks before deciding to start college. "You'd be surprised at the amount of resources you can find at BMCC. If you need help, just ask. As someone who wants to be a police officer someday, this was a great place to start college," said Marmolejos.

BMCC Ranks #1 Nationwide in Diversity Among Managerial Ranks
BMCC ranks first in the nation among two-year public colleges in terms of racial and ethnic diversity in its managerial ranks according to The Chronicle of Higher Education. The publication analyzed U.S. Department of Education data from 167 different two-year institutions around the country. The diversity index indicates on a scale of 1 to 100 the probability that any two full-time managers at an institution were from different racial or ethnic groups in the fall of 2017, according to The Chronicle of Higher Education article.

Total Hispanic Enrollment at BMCC Earns High Ranking BMCC has earned a #19 ranking among 100 two-year, Hispanic-Serving Institutions across the nation, according to survey results posted by the Hispanic Outlook on Education Magazine. BMCC is one of five CUNY two-year colleges to have made the top 100. The ranking is based on total enrollment for 2017, the last year in which federal data is available at this time. In that year, BMCC is reported to have had 26,932 students for total enrollment, including 11,914 Hispanic students, or 44 percent. For more information, click here and flip to page 8.

BMCC to Celebrate Life and Work of Scott Anderson September 9
The BMCC community is invited to celebrate the life and work of former Vice President for Administration and Planning, Scott Anderson, on September 9 at 9:30 a.m. in Theater 2 at 199 Chambers Street. Anderson, who passed away in June 2019, had an enormously varied career with BMCC and CUNY. This event will include music performances by BMCC students and remarks from many of Anderson's former colleagues including Antonio Pérez, former BMCC President; Marcia Keizs, former President of York College; Phillip A. Berry, President of Philip Berry Associates, LLC, and former CUNY Trustee; and Karrin E. Wilks, Interim President of BMCC. It will also include video tributes featuring stories and memories shared by former and current members of the BMCC/CUNY family.

BMCC Closed for Labor Day
BMCC will be closed on September 2 in observance of Labor Day. The day is a scheduled holiday, excused without charge, for Instructional Staff in Non-teaching functions, Civil Service: Clerical, Administrative, Professional,Custodial, Stores-Stock, [Campus Security excused without charge subject to essential scheduling], Skilled Trades, and Career and Salary Plan Titles.

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, former Vice President for Administration and Planning. 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 Bragg’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 Anderson’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.

Faculty and Staff Now Have Access to Student CCTs
BMCC’s Co-Curricular Transcript (CCT) is a comprehensive official record of student’s participation and achievements outside of the classroom while enrolled at BMCC. These co-curricular activities foster holistic development of the student experience, encourage life-long learning and active citizenship. Faculty/Staff now have access to view students’ unofficial CCTs, review a list of current eligible activities as well as submit events/activities to be considered for placement on the CCT.  

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.

Majority of Students Plan to Graduate from BMCC
According to the Fall 2018 applicants survey report, 89 percent of BMCC students said they intended to graduate from BMCC. Similarly, 85 percent said they intend to transfer to a four year college. "The surveying of students is a good way to understand how they are experiencing the application process and what we, as a college, can do to improve it," said Bettina Hansel, director of institutional research.

A Few Important Dates
September 2: Last day to add/change a class
September 3: CUNY Fall 2020 application opens
September 5: Classes follow a Monday schedule
September 15: Priority deadline for CUNY transfer application

Resources for Supporting Students: Two Updated Brochures The Office of Public Affairs has released the new Comprehensive Academic Programs brochure, which provides degree program information, and Student Support Programs brochure, which highlights offices and services such as financial aid and tutoring programs. Printed copies are available on campus and downloadable versions are on the BMCC website.

Share with students: 6 Sure-Fire Ways to Crush Your Fall Semester
Here are a few tips from the Admissions #FuturePanthers blog that you can share with students to foster a strong start this fall semester.

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 at (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

BMCC students take part in training by Hispanic Federation
August 28, 2019 — The Register Citizen

English Professor Claire La Berge examines role of humanities in higher education
August 26—Los Angeles Review of Books

BMCC Music Professor Roxy Coss, featured in article about women in jazz
August 8—Vanity Fair

Register for the STEPtember Bilion Step Challenge
WorkWell NYC is on a mission to move more! Join STEPtember—a fun month-long walking challenge where thousands of city employees will walk, run, or roll towards a collective goal of a billion steps! Join employees from across the City to get moving while having a blast and working together to reach a billion steps. Challenge dates are September 10–October 8.

BMCC Employees: Free Flu Shots Available September 12 BMCC faculty and staff can get their flu shot at work this September 12 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Make an appointment for your worksite flu shot here (type in Username: nyc Password: flu). Or, to schedule by phone, call (866) 481-4391. Download your consent form here and bring it to your appointment to save time. 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, or call 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).

Welcome Back Super Fair
September 4

Audition for BMCC Music Ensembles Through September 7

International Coffee Hour: Fall Welcome
September 5

The Mourning After: A Play Reading and Discussion
September 10

	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

BMCC Selected as Favorite in 2019 CUNYAC Pre-season Women's Volleyball Poll

BMCC Sits First in 2019 CUNYAC Men's Soccer Pre-season Poll
BMCC's All-Time Leading Scorer Quran Dublin Commits to UDC

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.