Business Technology Named Advisory Committee of the Year

CONTACT: JACKIE BLAKLEY, EXT. 1305

FOR RELEASE ON NOVEMBER 6
(By Lisa Garrett)

PENDLETON --- Tri-County Technical College's Business Technology Advisory Board was named Advisory Committee of the Year at the College's Annual Report Luncheon.

This is the fourth time the committee has received the trophy, the first time being in 1981, and later in 1984 and 2000. Chair Diane Watkins and Jackie Blakley, department head, accepted the trophy and plaque on behalf of the committee.

The advisory committee consists of community business leaders who meet quarterly for discussion and to provide input about keeping the Business Technology curriculum relevant to today's ever-changing work environment. Members volunteer to speak in classrooms, promote the college through the community and conduct mock interviews with students. "The committee wants to help in any possible to prepare our students for the workplace. The are always working hard behind the scenes to enhance and improve our program without seeking recognition for their hard work," said Jackie Blakley.

A major undertaking this year was providing input for outcomes assessment for the department. The committee reviewed a list of competencies compiled by the College and defined the competency level that Business Technology grads should possess. The faculty is using this information as they develop outcomes assessments for the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs, the accrediting board for the business program.

Members also take an active role in the development of the students' interpersonal skills, as well as their academic achievements, by sponsoring workshops such as this year's "10 Key Ways for Gaining That Competitive Edge in Today's Workplace."

"We feel privileged to have such a diverse group of community business leaders who are willing to go the extra mile to provide time, guidance, resources and support to our students and our faculty," said Blakley. "We feel that the enhancements made to our curriculum with the assistance of the committee will continue to attract top-quality students and instructors to the College."
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