Tribal College representatives honored

Observer Staff

7/5/2006 12:00:00 AM

Vivian Aldrich-representing the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College-was awarded the American Indian College Fund Faculty Member of the Year Award.

The honor was bestowed on Aldrich during the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College's sixth commencement ceremony on May 5.

She was hired in July of 2004 as the full-time business instructor. Since then, Vivian has taught 9 of the 10 courses offered in the business program. Vivian demonstrates enthusiasm in her teaching and interaction with students.

She is very personable and is always doing all she can to assist students to be successful. Outside the classroom, Vivian is an active member on a number of committees and serves as an advisor for the student business group-American Indian Business Leaders.

Vivian is also working on the establishment of a business advisory committee for guidance in the development of the SCTC Business Program. Vivian is highly rated by students in all her classes. She has also received several very positive nominations from the student body. The student's comments are a clear representation of her effectiveness in the classroom.

Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College adjunct faculty member Cheryl Calhoun was also recognized during the May 5 ceremony. It is apparent, in many Tribal and community colleges, that adjuncts make up the majority of instructional staff and the Mt. Pleasant Tribal college is no exception.

Cheryl came on staff in January of 2005. She was hired as a science consultant to develop the science curriculum and a science lab. During the last two semesters, Cheryl has taught a biology class and an environmental science course.

She was immediately recognized as an asset to the SCTC instructional staff by students and the administration.