Class Act: Sharon Shelton set her sights on nursing when she was only 9 years old
Published March 31, 2022 By Joe WyattSharon Shelton, who by the tender age of 9 was certain that she would one day become a nurse, was bitten by the teaching bug in her teens and unexpectedly began weighing what she presumed were conflicting career options.
Sojourn to Poland impactful for Amarillo College Presidential Scholars
Published March 30, 2022 By Joe WyattKrakow, Poland is only 800 miles west of war-torn Ukraine, and refugees had already begun filtering into the city when a group of 28 former and current Amarillo College students arrived there for an uncommon study-abroad experience.
Amarillo College Student Media wins two dozen state awards
Published March 28, 2022 By Joe Wyatt
Amarillo College Student Media brought home 24 awards, including four first-place prizes, from the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA) convention March 23-26 in Fort Worth.
Palmer, Zvonnikov headline AC’s Art Force Piano Series finale
Published March 22, 2022 By Joe WyattAmarillo College’s compelling Art Force Piano Series will conclude with a stirring tribute to the late, great Ludwig van Beethoven when pianist David Palmer and violinist Evgeny Zvonnikov join forces in April to present Beethoven 250.
AC’s Learning Frameworks course significantly impacts student retention
Published March 2, 2022 By Joe WyattA one-credit-hour course at Amarillo College has had such a positive impact on student retention – a key driver of student attainment – that most new students are now required to take it.
Iconic, unique artwork propels new Panhandle PBS membership drive
Published March 1, 2022 By Joe WyattCreations by Texas Panhandle artists that pay homage to iconic PBS characters are part of an ambitious effort by Panhandle PBS to increase membership among a younger, more diverse audience.
College receives grant to enhance its prison education program
Published February 22, 2022 By Joe WyattA recently announced grant will help Amarillo College ramp up educational opportunities and be optimally positioned when Pell Grant eligibility is restored nationally for people who are incarcerated.
Amarillo College Student Media claims Gold, Best of Show at ADDYs
Published February 21, 2022 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Student Media won Gold and a Best of Show Award in the student division at the 2022 American Advertising Awards.
New program at AC empowers students to pursue video-gaming careers
Published February 21, 2022 By Joe WyattOpportunities abound in the burgeoning video-game industry, which is why Amarillo College established a Game Design certificate last fall that empowers students to take aim at careers in gaming and create portfolio-building games of their own.
Art Force Piano Series to present Forgotten Masterpieces of Central Europe
Published February 18, 2022 By Joe WyattDr. Slawomir Dobrzanski, professor of music at Kansas State University, will be the featured pianist when the Art Force Piano Series presents “Forgotten Masterpieces of Central European Piano Music” at Amarillo College.
Class Act: Ashley Coffman lets students know why what they learn matters
Published February 17, 2022 By Joe WyattAshley Coffman naturally wants her students to fully comprehend the information she imparts, but she also strives to help them understand the applicable nature of the subject matter – why it is important to know.
AC recertified as an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction
Published February 16, 2022 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that it has been recertified as an Achieving the Dream (ATD) Leader College of Distinction, a designation AC has held since ATD created the award in 2018.
Synergy of ecosystem focus of exhibit at AC’s Southern Light Gallery
Published February 15, 2022 By Joe WyattFrom Elizabeth Mellotts study of honeybees sprang a photographic project called A Delicate Nature which, as she explains, brings to light the fragile balance and interconnectedness of our ecosystem.
AC observes Engineering Week with panel discussions, job & transfer fairs
Published February 15, 2022 By Joe WyattMore than a dozen area engineers will serve as panelists and share their personal journeys of academic and professional success when Amarillo College celebrates Engineering Week.
TWU’s Sarah McMahan began her quest for a Ph.D. at Amarillo College
Published February 10, 2022 By Joe WyattWhen Amarillo College established a partnership in 2021 with Texas Woman’s University to increase the number of homegrown teachers serving Panhandle communities, a homegrown individual fortuitously turned up in the mix.
AC Regents authorize $4 million acquisition of former Albertson’s building
Published January 26, 2022 By Joe WyattOn Tuesday, Jan. 25, the Amarillo College Board of Regents unanimously approved an expenditure of $4 million to acquire a 57,149-square-foot building in Amarillo that formerly housed an Albertson’s grocery store.
AC faculty to present ‘Jam with Love’ as Art Force Piano Series continues
Published January 25, 2022 By Joe WyattThe accomplished Amarillo College music faculty will be channeling Cupid in the third installment of the Art Force Piano Series.
College receives national accolades for its digital marketing program
Published January 21, 2022 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that its Communications and Marketing Department emerged from the 9th Annual Education Digital Marketing Awards with five national collegiate marketing accolades – two at the topmost Gold level.
The Education Digital Marketing (EDM) Awards are endorsed by Higher Education Marketing Report and recognize the best digital content, electronic communications, mobile media, social media and educational websites.
Spring intramurals offer a full slate of fun and games for students at AC
Published January 19, 2022 By Joe WyattBecause they are beneficially rigorous by design, some classes at Amarillo College may not be entirely fun and games, but intramurals at AC sure are.
A total of 662 students earn Amarillo College fall Dean’s List honors
Published January 14, 2022 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that a total of 662 full-time students attained academic excellence worthy of placing their names on the fall 2021 Dean’s List.
SGA helps enliven start of Spring Semester with Welcome Week
Published January 12, 2022 By Joe WyattThe Student Government Association (SGA) is gearing up for another fun-filled semester at Amarillo College and will kick things off with a slate of Welcome Week activities that coincide with the start of spring classes on Jan. 18.
Amarillo College emerged from the chaos of 2021 as a Rising Star
Published December 17, 2021 By Joe WyattEarly on, when so many were beset by the worst winter storm in a very long time and the pandemic continued to rage, 2021 seemed destined to be a year in which the bar might understandably be set for endurance, not excellence.
Class Act: Courtney Milleson fully embraces the AC Culture of Caring
Published December 15, 2021 By Joe WyattCourtney Milleson, a member of the Amarillo College faculty since 2002, has worn a variety of hats at AC – educator, mentor, committeewoman, club sponsor, global tour guide, even co-chair of the erstwhile Common Reader program.
AC receives grant to expand nursing program by adding night classes
Published December 13, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has received a $250,000 grant from the Harrington Cancer and Health Foundation to help expand capacity in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program by adding a night-classes component.
Aviation maintenance propels once-homeless mom to AC Commencement
Published December 9, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
Tiffany Hammons holds dear an uplifting quote by renowned industrialist Henry Ford who said, “When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.”
Six AC students tabbed for All-State Choir, Band and Jazz Band
Published December 3, 2021 By Joe WyattThe Texas Community College Band Directors Association and Choir Directors Association, respectively, have tabbed six Amarillo College students to perform at the Texas Music Educators’ Annual Conference and Convention this February in San Antonio.
Engineering students build semester-ending projects from recyclables
Published December 3, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College engineering students assembled semester-ending projects from the likes of salvaged bicycles, discarded soda cans and old cardboard. While their actual grades are still pending, their teacher immediately granted everyone an honorary A for effort.
AC’s Southern Light Gallery features unexpected images from Cuba
Published November 23, 2021 By Joe WyattThe island nation of Cuba had long been an alluring destination for Patricia D. Richards, a photographer and educator whose perseverance ultimately gave way to an exhibit currently on display at Amarillo College’s Southern Light Gallery.
Panhandle PBS wins Regional Emmy® Award for documentary series
Published November 20, 2021 By Joe WyattThe Lone Star Emmy Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences has recognized Panhandle PBS producers with Regional Emmy® Awards for their work on the station’s series, “Living While Black.”
AC claims five top-ten finishes at regional info-technology conference
Published November 16, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students earned five top-ten finishes at the contest-filled U.S. Information Technology Collegiate Conference–South Central Regional hosted on Oct. 28-30 at AC’s West Campus.
Amarillo College freshman vocalist qualifies for national competition
Published November 15, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
A prestigious regional contest turned into a springboard to national competition for one outstanding Amarillo College vocalist.
AC receives $1 million grant for innovative work-based learning program
Published November 10, 2021 By Joe WyattThe Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation is excited to announce a $1 million grant to Amarillo College.
Amarillo College students capture 20 statewide media awards
Published November 9, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Student Media members won 20 awards – two for first place – at the 2021 Texas Community College Journalism Association (TCCJA) virtual awards presentation on Nov. 5.
College welcomes first athletes in revival of intercollegiate sports
Published November 8, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to welcome the first group of students attracted by the school’s much-anticipated return to intercollegiate athletics.
New program coordinator oversees Amarillo College’s 50th Fire Academy
Published November 4, 2021 By Joe WyattAlong with the fortuitous arrival of a new and vastly experienced program coordinator, the Fire Protection Technology program at Amarillo College reached a milestone this fall with the advent of its 50th Fire Academy.
Bond projects gather momentum across the Amarillo College landscape
Published November 3, 2021 By Joe WyattMajor developments are apparent across the Amarillo College landscape as no fewer than six large-scale building renovations and/or infrastructure upgrades are currently in various stages of progression.
Class Act: Shannon Cornell loves sharing the beauty of mathematics
Published November 1, 2021 By Joe WyattEvery mathematical challenge gives Shannon Cornell a reassuring glimpse of something vastly more elegant than the computation at hand.
Guest artists to present ‘Dances and Romances’ in Art Force Piano Series
Published October 25, 2021 By Joe WyattThe Art Force Piano Series continues at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 9 when the visiting husband-wife duo of Alex and Rachel Li McDonald present “Dances and Romances” at Amarillo College.
Exhibit features images of dinosaurs produced with pinhole cameras
Published October 21, 2021 By Joe WyattPhotographer Sam Davis strives to create images that connect with his childhood imagination, and he accomplished that with his dinosaur-laden exhibit – created using pinhole cameras – on display at Amarillo College’s Southern Light Gallery.
AC to host contest-filled regional information technology conference
Published October 19, 2021 By Joe WyattMore than 100 students representing colleges and universities from Arizona to Missouri will visit Amarillo College this month for the United States Information Technology Collegiate Conference (USITCC) South Central Regional.
AC Student Media wins a pair of prestigious national collegiate awards
Published October 18, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Student Media has received two prestigious national awards for the student magazine “The Current.” The awards were announced during the virtual Associated Collegiate Press/College Media Association Fall National Convention held Oct. 14 and 15.
AC and WTAMU to co-present huge college fair at AmTech Career Academy
Published October 13, 2021 By Joe WyattHigh school juniors and seniors, along with Amarillo College students who aspire to transfer to a university, will have access to a smorgasbord of outstanding higher-education offerings at the 2021 Amarillo Area Night College Fair.
AC’s Cara Crowley to serve as panelist in Conversation with the White House
Published October 12, 2021 By Joe WyattAn Amarillo College leader has been chosen to participate in a panel discussion, via Zoom, to better inform the executive branch of the U.S. government about the burgeoning impact of poverty on college students, and to explore solutions.
Class Act: Ray Newburg heartened by persistence of curtain-time jitters
Published October 8, 2021 By Joe WyattFew are more familiar with Amarillo College’s venerable culture of caring than Ray Newburg, assistant professor of theatre arts, who in the late 1980s was introduced to the practice upon becoming a freshman at AC.
Amarillo College officially becomes an AVID certified tutoring institution
Published October 4, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, long renowned for its exceptional brand of multi-disciplinary tutoring, just raised the bar even higher.
Amarillo College receives $4.8 million grant to enhance STEM career pathways
Published September 29, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has been awarded a five-year grant by the U.S. Department of Education totaling $4,783,323 to develop a work-based learning system and enhance transfer readiness for students pursuing careers in STEM fields.
College receives federal grant to provide childcare subsidy vouchers
Published September 23, 2021 By Joe WyattAccording to a survey conducted by Amarillo College, almost all students at AC who are parents of young children experience some level of stress, much of which they attribute to the challenges of finding and affording childcare.
Amarillo College microbiology instructor taking part in COVID vaccine trial
Published September 13, 2021 By Joe WyattEver since the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic, Mario Mireles, instructor of microbiology at Amarillo College, has sought to become part of the solution.
AC and TWU unite to produce homegrown teachers for Panhandle communities
Published September 9, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College and Texas Woman’s University are poised to establish a partnership to create a seamless pathway to teacher certification that will effectively increase the number of homegrown teachers serving Texas Panhandle communities.
College's East Campus to host SCCA’s Carmageddon Car Show
Published September 3, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
AC again selected to lead Texas School Ready for Panhandle
Published September 3, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that it has been selected to continue serving as the lead agent in the Texas Panhandle for the Texas School Ready (TSR) project through 2023.
Southern Light Gallery is back with photographic imagery of Steve Goff
Published August 31, 2021 By Joe WyattAfter a lengthy hiatus, the Southern Light Gallery at Amarillo College springs back from dormancy this fall with a photography exhibit that’s garden fresh, albeit hardly garden variety.
AC’s revitalized Conservatory Theatre offering full slate of fall classes
Published August 27, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
Accomplished musicians to perform in Art Force Piano Series at Amarillo College
Published August 26, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
Amarillo College's Innovation Outpost unveils incentivized Career Accelerator
Published August 26, 2021 By Joe WyattImagine stepping away from the economic sidelines and onto a pathway leading to a lucrative career in web development or cloud computing, a quest that begins with classes only 10 weeks in duration and entirely free.
Purdue University Global, AC partner to offer full-credit transfers into nursing programs
Published August 18, 2021 By Joe WyattA partnership between Purdue University Global and Amarillo College (AC) will facilitate students’ transfer from AC to Purdue Global to pursue Bachelor of Science degrees in nursing, health and wellness, and health science.
Class Act: Tamra Rocsko reinforces curriculum with one-on-one instruction
Published August 16, 2021 By Joe WyattTamra Rocsko, director of the Nuclear Medicine Program at Amarillo College, is a gifted and judicious scholar. Logic is the bedrock of her discipline, but every now and then her personal decisions radiate straight from the heart.
AC announces agreement with record-sharing platform GreenLight Credentials
Published August 10, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College today announced a partnership with GreenLight Credentials, a record-sharing platform that allows students throughout the Panhandle to share education records with anyone they choose by using an app on their phones.
STEM students at AC conduct groundbreaking gene expression research
Published August 9, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
Researchers of global climate change have long been aware that an increase in atmospheric CO2 leads to increased crop production, but none have ever understood precisely why.
AC grads complete Texas Tech’s 1-year teacher ed. program in AISD schools
Published July 28, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
Kamrynn Striley’s first-ever visit to the campus of Texas Tech University will occur on Aug. 7, when she travels to Lubbock to walk across the commencement stage. However, it’s not the only ‘first’ on Striley’s budding resumé.
Class Act: Chris George’s blueprint for success definitely does compute
Published July 20, 2021 By Joe WyattIn his scholarly quest to absorb the comprehensive complexities of technology, Christopher George made a number of impromptu detours down “rabbit holes” that broadened his knowledge base but definitely deferred his degree attainment.
AC Police plan activities in observance of National Night Out
Published July 20, 2021 By Joe WyattFrom bouncy inflatables and a rock-climbing wall to free food and fun giveaways, National Night Out will be a frolicking celebration to remember at Amarillo College.
AC will begin offering in-person enrollment services on Saturdays
Published July 20, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is expanding its enrollment services so that prospective students will have in-person access to all aspects of the registration process on Saturdays, beginning July 31 at the Washington Street Campus.
Michelle Lamons tabbed for Community College Research Fellowship
Published July 19, 2021 By Joe WyattMichelle Lamons, director of the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program at Amarillo College, has long focused on ways of improving seamless integration of adult learners into the many career pathways facilitated by higher education.
AC names 3 head coaches to spearhead the revival of Badger Athletics
Published July 6, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce yet another milestone in its much-anticipated revival of intercollegiate athletics – the hiring of three head coaches with a collective wealth of collegiate coaching experience.
Teacher at AC’s Child Development Lab School named Educator of Year
Published June 16, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
Randi Warrick, who for almost 10 years now has taught 1-year-olds at the Amarillo College Child Development Lab School, has been named Educator of the Year by the Panhandle Early Childhood Educators (PECE).
AC receives largest gift ever, $15 million from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott
Published June 15, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is thrilled to announce that it has received a magnanimous gift of $15 million from author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
AC wins national award for effectiveness in community college governance
Published June 4, 2021 By Joe WyattThe American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) has honored Amarillo College with its Award of Excellence for Exemplary CEO/Board Relationship, a national distinction for which only one community college is selected annually.
A total of 678 students earn Amarillo College Spring Dean’s List honors
Published June 1, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that a total of 678 full-time students attained academic excellence worthy of placing their names on the Spring 2021 Dean’s List.
Registration is open for Chalk It Up, AC’s annual sidewalk art contest
Published May 24, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College’s Chalk It Up sidewalk art contest returns in July to give area artists a chance to hatch hued handiwork while vying for cash prizes.
AC receives $246,000 grant to support Adams Earn & Learn Program
Published May 24, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has received a generous grant to help facilitate its work-based program that allows participants to learn while they simultaneously earn paychecks and potential academic credits through apprenticeships in their fields of study.
Aspen Institute presents AC with Rising Star Award for rapid improvement
Published May 18, 2021 By Joe WyattToday, Amarillo College, a Top 10 finalist for the 2021 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, was recognized in a virtual award ceremony as one of the Top 5 community colleges nationally and captured Aspen’s Rising Star Award and the $100,000 prize that goes with it.
AC recognizes outstanding students in each major and special awards
Published May 14, 2021 By Joe WyattEach spring, Amarillo College recognizes its most outstanding students at a formal and celebratory Honors Convocation, which this year had to be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
AC joins a national alliance with students designing education’s future
Published May 13, 2021 By Joe WyattGRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- A national alliance of six colleges and universities, together with hundreds of high school and community partners, announced the launch of REP4, an initiative to change the future of education. Unique to the alliance, students will take the lead conducting “Rapid Education Prototyping” to address the urgent challenges of access and completion to fully deliver on higher education’s promise of social and economic mobility.
Winner of Aspen Prize to be announced May 18 during virtual ceremony
Published May 11, 2021 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College community will converge on the Washington Street Campus on Tuesday, May 18 for the long-awaited announcement of which community college is the best in the land – and AC is definitely in the running.
AC receives grant to establish a Special Education Advocacy Certificate
Published May 11, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has received a $22,000 grant from the Texas Bar Foundation to establish a new certificate program in Special Education Advocacy, primarily to provide specialized training for legal studies students, parents of special-needs children, and future educators.
Amarillo College graduate discovered her niche in the welding program
Published May 6, 2021 By Joe WyattEmma Womack might not be the first Amarillo College student to switch her major from dental hygiene to welding, but because she did, her own smile seems to be shining just as brightly as any of those she might have helped embellish.
AC Esports team caps perfect 12-0 campaign with Division Championship
Published April 28, 2021 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Esports varsity Overwatch team capped an undefeated season on April 22 by knocking off the defending champs of Northwestern College to capture the GGleagues Central Division B Championship.
Amarillo College to lift campuses-wide mask mandate Monday, April 26
Published April 22, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that it will replace its campuses-wide mask mandate with a masks-optional policy beginning on Monday, April 26.
Class Act: Aaron Faver believes in the value of synthesizing ideas
Published April 21, 2021 By Connie de Jesus
Aaron Faver, instructor of social sciences at Amarillo College, remembers the Alamo, particularly a display he saw there as a kid that featured letters written in the dire eleventh hour by its ill-fated defenders.
June Jazz returns to in-person performances with five concerts
Published April 19, 2021 By Joe WyattFor a quarter century, the hippest place to be on Tuesday nights in June has been Amarillo College, and June Jazz will not disappoint in 2021 as five Tuesdays dot the June calendar, giving folks maximum opportunity to enjoy the free concerts.
AC’s return to in-person Commencement set for May 14 at Hodgetown
Published April 12, 2021 By Connie de JesusAmarillo College returns to in-person commencement exercises this spring with a doubleheader of sorts – back-to-back graduation ceremonies on Friday, May 14 at Hodgetown Stadium in downtown Amarillo.
Class Act: Reem Witherspoon – from ESL student to president of Faculty Senate
Published April 7, 2021 By Joe WyattReem Witherspoon, supervisor of the award-winning Math Outreach Center at Amarillo College, was not initially drawn to AC to teach. In fact, teaching was not so much as a blip on her aspirational radar when she first set foot on campus.
Amarillo College assembles distinguished Athletics Advisory Board
Published April 6, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College’s return to intercollegiate athletics has been buoyed by the establishment of an Athletics Advisory Board to help shape the vision of how the new program can best serve the community.
AC wins Best of Show in national education advertising competition
Published March 31, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that its Communications and Marketing Department earned a dozen prestigious accolades – including one for Best of Show – in the 36th Annual Education Advertising Awards.
Mass media students capture 36 awards at annual state convention
Published March 30, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College mass media students won 36 awards on March 26 at the annual convention of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA). The awards included first prize for overall excellence in newspaper in Division 3 and second prize for overall excellence in magazine in Open Division.
AC's Creative Mind Lecture Series explores America in the 1920s
Published March 23, 2021 By Joe WyattThe Creative Mind Lecture Series this spring at Amarillo College will be taking a virtual look at A Decade of Decadence, Daring & Disturbing Deeds – the 1920s.
AC a finalist for national award for exemplary CEO/Board Relationship
Published March 22, 2021 By Joe WyattThe model of outstanding collaboration between the Amarillo College Board of Regents and AC President Russell Lowery-Hart has been conspicuously recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).
AC’s Sewar Ali named Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar
Published March 16, 2021 By Joe WyattSewar Ali, a 2020 graduate of Amarillo College, has been named a 2021 Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar and will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
AC joins National Junior College Athletic Association and a conference
Published March 2, 2021 By Joe WyattEven with its impending return to intercollegiate athletics still more than a year in the offing, Amarillo College is swiftly proceeding to level the playing field.
Amarillo College media students capture American Advertising Awards
Published March 1, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
Amarillo College Student Media took home gold and bronze prizes from the 2021 American Advertising Awards held Feb. 25, 2021.
Virtual commencement tops AC's prestigious marketing awards
Published February 24, 2021 By Joe WyattWhen the pandemic compelled most of higher education to develop alternatives to in-person commencement activities, rather than merely following the crowd, Amarillo College set the bar.
AC receives grant to integrate its data analytics techniques with AISD
Published February 11, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has received a grant from the Greater Texas Foundation that will enable educators from AC and Caprock High School to join forces to create a data ecosystem to ensure more students attain postsecondary degrees and credentials.
AC academic advisor to deliver TED Talk at Texas State University
Published February 8, 2021 By Joe WyattMelodie Graves was by her own admission one extremely timid college student – at first.
Career Spotlight Series looks at media, arts & communications
Published January 29, 2021 By Joe WyattAnyone can become better acquainted with what careers are truly like in media, arts and communications by taking advantage of the new Career Spotlight Series being delivered virtually by Amarillo College.
Variety of selections to be featured in AC’s virtual Faculty Recital
Published January 28, 2021 By Joe Wyatt
A variety of classical and engaging music – from Bach and Beethoven to American and Korean folk songs – will be featured when Amarillo College’s accomplished music faculty virtually presents the annual Faculty Recital.
AC’s Lynn Library offers virtual services and in-person amenities
Published January 15, 2021 By Joe WyattYou don’t have to show up in person at Amarillo College’s Lynn Library to reap the benefits of its myriad resources. Robust virtual services, including instant messaging, have been ramped up to meet a recent increase in remote demand.
VP Mark White to spearhead Amarillo College’s athletics program
Published January 14, 2021 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has officially commenced laying the groundwork for establishing an intercollegiate athletics program by placing the entire initiative under the direction of Mark White, executive vice president and general counsel.
Fall Dean’s List exceeds 700 students for 2nd time in AC history
Published January 7, 2021 By Joe WyattAcademic success is surging at Amarillo College, a reality evidenced by the Fall Dean’s List, which contains more than 700 names for only the second time in school history.
Amarillo College students capture 13 statewide media awards
Published December 18, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Student Media received an early holiday gift this week when the Texas Community College Journalism Association announced that AC has won 13 awards in this year’s competition.
AC enlists interactive digital billboards to thank COVID heroes
Published December 17, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College stands united in its support of all the essential COVID-19 heroes who continue to toil tirelessly on behalf of everyone affected by the pandemic in Amarillo and the entire Texas Panhandle.
College adds new degrees and certificates in the cinematic arts
Published December 11, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Regents on Dec. 1 unanimously approved the addition of six new academic programs in cinematic arts to prepare students for careers at all levels of the film industry.
AC receives $20,000 from Ellucian for COVID-19 student relief
Published December 4, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is one of 25 schools to have been selected from among more than 160 community college applicants nationwide to receive a 2020 PATH Scholarship from Ellucian.
Regents approve athletics program; 3 sports to debut in 2022
Published December 2, 2020 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Board of Regents voted Dec. 1 to establish an intercollegiate athletics program featuring three sports tentatively scheduled to begin play in the 2022-2023 school year.
Graduates to be showcased at AC's all-virtual fall commencement
Published November 24, 2020 By Joe WyattFor a long as she can remember, Sewar Ali has drawn inspiration from her Kurdish immigrant parents who encouraged their eldest to set lofty goals and then give earnest chase, advice she followed to a T at Amarillo College.
AC’s Culture of Caring extends to helping an injured dog convalesce
Published November 12, 2020 By Joe WyattHad Terry Longbine been forced to choose between continuing his quest for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) at Amarillo College or staying home with his grievously injured 3-month-old chocolate lab, the pup would have easily won out.
AC Approves School of Cinematic Arts at Innovation Outpost
Published October 28, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Regents announced on Oct. 27 plans to launch the AC School of Cinematic Arts in collaboration with Sharpened Iron Studios. The plan was approved during Tuesday night’s Board of Regents meeting. The school will be located at AC’s downtown campus, the future site of the College’s Innovation Outpost.
AC’s No Excuses Fund receives a $20,000 gift from Atmos Energy Corp.
Published October 14, 2020 By Joe WyattThe No Excuses Fund, which serves as a safety net for Amarillo College students whose academic attainments become endangered by life barriers, received a generous boost on Oct. 14 from the Atmos Energy Corporation.
Most AC classes transitioning to tech-supported format on Oct. 26
Published October 8, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College campuses will remain open and fully operational when the second 8-week session of the fall semester begins; however, most traditional lecture classes will transition to a tech-supported format.
Vocational nursing program reaccredited after first-ever virtual site visit
Published October 5, 2020 By Joe WyattIn September, when the Texas Board of Nursing began piloting the use of virtual site visits for reaccreditation purposes, the first program to go under its remote microscope was the Vocational Nursing Program at Amarillo College.
College Launches CEO Council and new Adams Earn & Learn Program
Published October 1, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College on Oct. 1 launched the Adams Earn & Learn Program, a new work-based learning initiative for the Amarillo Community. Applications for The Adams Earn & Learn Program, which will pair Amarillo talent with participating local businesses through apprenticeships arranged by Amarillo College, will open Oct. 2.
Oct. 1, 1951: AC helped lead racial integration of public colleges in Texas
Published October 1, 2020 By Joe WyattThe first day of October annually is a date of considerable significance for Amarillo College, and it has been for almost 70 years.
Machining Technology Program achieves reaccreditation from NIMS
Published September 30, 2020 By Joe WyattThe Machining Technology Program at Amarillo College is pleased to announce that it has achieved full reaccreditation – good for another five years – from the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Peer tutors serve on front lines at AC's Academic Success Centers
Published September 25, 2020 By Joe WyattNot that long ago, Alvaro Gardea ventured into the Math Outreach Center at Amarillo College for the first time – not looking to help students unravel the complexities of mathematics, a function he regularly performs there today, but in search of support to conquer his own fear of the subject.
City extends free bus service for Amarillo College until August of 2023
Published September 14, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo City Transit not only upgraded its fleet of buses over the summer, it extended its free-rides partnership with Amarillo College until at least mid-August of 2023.
College receives ACE/Fidelity Award for Institutional Transformation
Published September 8, 2020 By Joe WyattThe American Council on Education (ACE) announced today (Sept. 8) that Amarillo College and Dominican University of California are the recipients of the 2020 ACE/Fidelity Investments Award for Institutional Transformation.
Badger esports teams gearing up for Wednesday night action this fall
Published September 2, 2020 By Joe WyattIf you are a gamer at Amarillo College, Christopher George would like to make your acquaintance, but please move to the front of the line if you have a knack for deploying poisonous chemical devices or palm-released bionic orbs.
The Underground offers AC students a wealth of high-tech support
Published August 27, 2020 By Joe WyattEven with occupancy somewhat limited by safety-first social distancing, there always seems to be space available for students wishing to take advantage of Amarillo College’s practically new subterranean technology hub.
ADN nursing program granted continuing accreditation by ACEN
Published August 19, 2020 By Joe WyattThe Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program at Amarillo College is pleased to announce that it has been awarded unconditional continuing accreditation by the Accreditation for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for the next eight years.
Initial meetings for all classes this fall will be conducted online
Published August 18, 2020 By Joe WyattThe very first meetings of all classes this fall at Amarillo College will be conducted online, a strategy aimed at ensuring a safe and successful return to in-person classes.
Virtual job fair on tap for students looking for jobs on AC campuses
Published August 13, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students who are interested in part-time employment opportunities on AC campuses are invited to take part in the Student Worker Virtual Job Fair from 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19, via Zoom.
AC receives $2.3 million in federal funding for student success
Published August 11, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has been awarded a pair of grants by the U.S. Department of Education that will provide more than $2.3 million over the next five years to sustain ongoing and highly successful student-success initiatives at AC’s West Campus and the AC—Moore County Campus.
Bookstore offers discount and free shipping for textbooks ordered online
Published August 5, 2020 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Bookstore will experience a pronounced uptick in activity between now and the first day of fall classes – it’s an August tradition – as like-minded students clamor to obtain the textbooks they need.
Grant helps AC support training for businesses affected by COVID-19
Published July 28, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, on the strength of a $287,500 award from the Texas Workforce Commission, is positioned to help offset costs and provide workforce training for businesses and employees adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Registration is open for Chalk It Up, AC’s annual sidewalk art contest
Published June 22, 2020 By Joe WyattChalk It Up, the annual sidewalk art contest at Amarillo College, is slated to unfold on Saturday, July 25 on the Washington Street Campus, and artists are invited to register for the free event at http://info.actx.edu/chalkitup.
AC will adhere to safety protocols. resume in-person classes in fall
Published June 19, 2020 By Mersadie NewsomeWithin a framework of enhanced safety protocols, Amarillo College will resume in-person classes this fall while continuing to offer students flexibility through an abundance of remote-learning opportunities.
Registration for fall classes, which begin on Aug. 24, is ongoing at www.actx.edu/enroll.
Amarillo College among Top 10 finalists for prestigious Aspen Prize
Published June 9, 2020 By Joe WyattA leading authority has ranked Amarillo College among the Top 10 community colleges in the nation, a significant distinction that keeps AC in the running to share in a $1 million prize when 1 of the 10 is crowned No. 1 next spring.
A total of 699 AC students earn Spring Dean’s List honors
Published June 1, 2020 By Joe WyattA host of students achieved academic excellence this spring at Amarillo College, where a total of 699 students have been named to the Spring 2020 Dean’s List.
AC selects Reagan Hales to spearhead Technology Innovation Hub
Published May 28, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that Reagan Hales, longtime executive with the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation, is joining AC’s leadership team as associate vice president for innovation and work-based learning.
Regents approve new Visual Effects programs for Tech Innovation Hub
Published May 27, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Regents on Tuesday, May 26 unanimously approved new associate degree and certificate programs in visual effects (VFX) to be housed in the Technology Innovation Hub being developed at the Downtown Campus.
Best selections from past June Jazz concerts to be featured on AC’s FM90
Published May 26, 2020 By Joe WyattJune Jazz will take a physical hiatus this season but not an audible one; the longtime Tuesday-night tradition at Amarillo College will dip into its archives and continue with “best of” performances delivered in virtual fashion.
Amarillo College extends virtual delivery of courses into the summer
Published May 22, 2020 By Joe WyattBased on continuing uncertainties associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and Amarillo College’s longstanding safety-first approach to protecting the health of the entire community, AC will extend virtual delivery of courses into the summer.
AC’s literary magazine, Freelancer, is now available for digital viewing
Published May 20, 2020 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College English Department is pleased to announce the publication of the digital edition of its annual literary magazine that showcases writing and artwork submitted by students, faculty and staff – Freelancer.
AC recognizes top students in each major, special award recipients
Published May 19, 2020 By Joe WyattEach spring, Amarillo College recognizes its most outstanding students at a formal and celebratory Honors Convocation, which this year had to be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Commencement speaker considered college an impossible dream
Published May 14, 2020 By Joe WyattWhen Brenda Hernandez of Dumas graduated from high school in 2014, she felt confident that her academic journey was at an end. Rather than apply to colleges, she moved to Amarillo and landed an office job in a healthcare setting.
Michael Hannen’s flipped-classroom helps students remain engaged
Published May 12, 2020 By Joe WyattEducators generally prize students who actively engage in the learning process, but for faculty whose lessons depend upon lively discourse of conflicting moralities, scholarly engagement is paramount.
Tamara Clunis chosen for Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship
Published May 6, 2020 By Joe WyattThe Aspen Institute College Excellence Program has announced that Dr. Tamara Clunis, vice president of academic affairs at Amarillo College, is one of 40 leaders selected for the prestigious 2020-21 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship program.
Foundation establishes Food Pantry Fund to support students in need
Published April 30, 2020 By Joe WyattMeeting the needs of students with food insecurities is among the foremost objectives of Amarillo College’s Culture of Caring, but keeping the Food Pantry adequately stocked in the COVID-19 crisis is an ever-increasing challenge.
Math instructor equips students with virtual tools to support success
Published April 30, 2020 By Joe Wyatt
Not satisfied with merely guiding her students to a remote learning environment, Maria Streater, instructor of mathematics at Amarillo College, enhanced the transition by providing everyone with a virtual welcome basket of techno goodies.
AC suspends Kids College and Community Enrichment classes
Published April 24, 2020 By Joe WyattBecause of uncertainties caused by COVID-19 (Coronavirus), Amarillo College has made the decision to suspend its Kids College camps and classes, as well as all its Community Enrichment classes, until further notice.
AC to host panel discussion on how crisis response impacts creativity
Published April 23, 2020 By Joe WyattThe Media, Arts and Communication Department at Amarillo College will host a panel discussion Tuesday, April 28 via Zoom to address how response to a crisis informs, shapes and prompts creativity – whether historically or present day.
AC Student Media captures 24 Texas Intercollegiate Press awards
Published April 22, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Student Media captured a total of 24 awards in the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association’s previously published work contest. The results of the contest were announced April 20, and reflect work done during 2019.
Scott Acker is named chief of the Amarillo College Police Department
Published April 21, 2020 By Joe WyattScott Acker, a seven-year veteran of the Amarillo College Police Department, has been named AC’s chief of police.
AC’s 100th commencement ceremony will be its first-ever staged virtually
Published April 16, 2020 By Stefanie CarruthAmarillo College will roll out a Commencement ceremony in May every bit as judicious as it is auspicious.
Emergency medical program shuffles coursework to keep students on track
Published April 15, 2020 By Joe WyattIt should come as no surprise when faculty in Amarillo College’s Emergency Medical Services Professions (EMSP) program take swift and decisive action in meeting a challenge head-on.
Austin Rios enlists 3D printers to make PPE for medical workers
Published April 14, 2020 By Joe WyattOne member of the Amarillo College Family recently joined a local effort to produce personal protective equipment (PPE) on 3D printers for distribution among healthcare workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis.
Center for Teaching and Learning leads shift to remote environment
Published April 8, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College’s swift and fruitful migration to a remote learning environment rightly will be remembered as a quintessential team effort, a project rife with the fingerprints of stakeholders from every corner of the academic landscape.
Chris George tabbed for COVID Cyber Threat Intelligence League
Published April 3, 2020 By Stefanie CarruthChristopher George, instructor of cyber security at Amarillo College, has joined an elite consortium of cyber-security professionals focused on neutralizing threats to healthcare systems and critical infrastructure during the pandemic.
AC acquires $250,000 grant to support student emergency fund
Published April 2, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has acquired a two-year grant totaling $250,000 that will significantly reinforce the College’s exceptional safety net for students whose academic attainments become endangered by life barriers.
Susan Burgoon helps her students transition to remote learning
Published April 1, 2020 By Joe WyattBy the time it became clear that the best means of protecting the entire Amarillo College community involved moving courses to an all-remote delivery system, Dr. Susan Burgoon’s wheels were already turning.
AC remains open, constricts services to comply with city mandate
Published March 30, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, which today resumed spring classes in a remote learning environment, will comply with the city of Amarillo’s Level Red shelter-in-place order by further constricting in-person services and entering Phase III of its COVID-19 Action Plan.
Food Bank turns to drive-thru system for disbursing fresh produce
Published March 27, 2020 By Joe WyattWhile Amarillo College has transitioned to remote delivery of classes, fresh fruits and vegetables will continue to be freely disbursed each Tuesday on the Washington Street Campus courtesy of the High Plains Food Bank.
One AC childcare center remains open for parents who need it most
Published March 23, 2020 By Joe WyattThanks to a concerted effort to consolidate staff and keep at least one of Amarillo College’s two childcare centers operational, some essential workers, particularly those in healthcare professions, are able to continue doing their own good work.
AC to pause classes for 1 week and migrate to all-remote delivery system
Published March 18, 2020 By Joe Wyatt
Stay Informed
To stay up-to-date on any changes to AC's COVID-19 Action Plan and access remote-learning resources, please refer to www.actx.edu/COVID19
Amarillo College today entered Phase II of its COVID-19 Action Plan and therefore will pause classes for one week following spring break in order to fully migrate to an all-remote delivery system.
College to establish its own coffee shop after Palace Coffee departs
Published March 13, 2020 By Joe WyattToday, as a result of a mutual agreement reached this week by Amarillo College and Palace Coffee, the coffee shop ceased operations at its AC location, which served the Washington Street Campus since February of 2018.
Book signing at AC Library on March 26 to feature author Marcy McKay
Published March 12, 2020 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Library is pleased to announce that it will host a book-signing event featuring local author Marcy McKay in the week following Spring Break.
College garners a total of 11 national Educational Advertising Awards
Published March 4, 2020 By Joe WyattThe Communications and Marketing Department at Amarillo College is pleased to announce that it collected a total of 11 awards, including five venerable Gold accolades, in the 35th annual Educational Advertising Awards.
Trio to represent College at annual South by Southwest Music Festival
Published February 28, 2020 By Joe WyattSpring Break is just around the corner, and many are making plans to visit warmer climes – possibly to the south or southwest.
AC Mass Media captures Gold at the 2020 American Advertising banquet
Published February 24, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College mass media students laid claim to a prestigious gold award in the only category they entered at the Amarillo chapter of the American Advertising Federation’s 2020 Advertising Awards banquet on Feb. 20.
National Career and Technical Education Month boosts awareness
Published February 21, 2020 By Joe WyattEach year, the Association for Career & Technical Education (CTE) designates February as National CTE Month to boost awareness about educational pathways leading to high-wage, high-demand careers in a number of fields.
Film and panel discussion to focus on race relations since Civil Rights era
Published February 18, 2020 By Joe WyattA film and a panel discussion concerning race relations in America are on tap as Amarillo College observes Black History Month, while continuing this year’s Creative Mind Lecture Series: Reverberations of Conflict: The Legacy of the Civil War.
Photographs by Adriane Little to go on display Feb. 24 at Amarillo College
Published February 13, 2020 By Joe WyattA photographic retracing of the fictional steps taken through London by one of novelist Virginia Woolf’s best-known characters, Clarissa Dalloway, is the basis for an upcoming exhibit at Amarillo College’s Southern Light Gallery.
College to receive $100,000 safety grant from Texas Mutual Insurance
Published February 5, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is poised to continue providing free safety-training courses for area businesses thanks to another generous grant courtesy of the Texas Mutual Insurance Company.
Music Department to present Faculty Recital Feb. 9 at Concert Hall Theater
Published January 31, 2020 By Joe WyattThe supremely accomplished music faculty at Amarillo College will be pulling out all the stops in February when they take the stage to present the eagerly anticipated Faculty Recital.
AC Testing Center earns national recognition for exemplary practices
Published January 30, 2020 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that its Testing Center has been awarded prestigious Test Center Certification by the National College Testing Association (NCTA).
Images by René West, curator of Southern Light Gallery, on display
Published January 29, 2020 By Joe WyattFusing the disparate photographic techniques inherent in handmade pinhole cameras, digital technology and Van Dyke printing, René West emerged from a Nevada desert with an array of compelling landscapes and self-styled mandalas.
AC and Panhandle PBS invested in May performance of Missa Solemnis
Published January 23, 2020 By Joe Wyatt‘Missa Solemnis’, arguably Ludwig Van Beethoven’s greatest composition, is rarely performed due to its notoriously high degree of difficulty.
Record number of students are named to AC's Fall Dean’s List
Published January 12, 2020 By Joe WyattThe number of students achieving academic excellence at Amarillo College continues to surge as 783 full-time students – AC’s highest tally ever – have been named to the Fall 2019 Dean’s List.
Communications & Marketing wins 5 Gold Awards for AC digital campaigns
Published December 20, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Communications and Marketing Department at Amarillo College captured five Gold-level national marketing accolades in the Education Digital Marketing Awards, sponsored by the Higher Education Marketing Report.
Career Ready You puts HSE and ESL students on fast track to success
Published December 20, 2019 By Joe WyattWhen Kaylee Brogden enrolled in the High School Equivalency (HSE) program at Amarillo College, she was not at all concerned with college-credit courses or career trajectories. She simply wanted to obtain the HSE credential.
AC students land summer internships with Sandia National Laboratories
Published December 18, 2019 By Joe WyattTwo Amarillo College engineering students already are gearing up for an especially busy and enlightening summer, one that will entail laboratory testing of non-nuclear components within the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile.
VFW Post 1475 brightens Christmas for 4 student veterans and families
Published December 16, 2019 By Joe WyattChristmas arrived early for a quartet of Amarillo College student veterans and their families thanks to the unanticipated generosity of Unit 6 of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1475.
Students in engineering, machining collaborate to create ARC drop box
Published December 13, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students in the engineering and machining programs momentarily dropped everything this semester to collaborate on the design and creation of a drop box for AC’s Advocacy and Resource Center (ARC).
Becky Easton installs Storybridge drop-off spot at AC for kids’ books
Published December 12, 2019 By Joe WyattAs dean of liberal arts at Amarillo College, Becky Easton has both a deep-seated passion and a vested interest in the spread of literacy, so when an opportunity arose to help put books into the hands of the youngest readers of all, she took it.
Amarillo College names Chris Sharp vice president of business affairs
Published December 10, 2019 By Joe WyattChris Sharp, who for the past 11 years has served as assistant city manager and finance director for the city of Canyon, has been named vice president of business affairs at Amarillo College.
College names Joe Bill Sherrod VP for institutional advancement
Published December 5, 2019 By Joe WyattJoe Bill Sherrod, a consummate fundraising professional and ardent civic leader, has been named vice president for institutional advancement at Amarillo College.
Phi Theta Kappa mounts hygiene drive to benefit Hope Welcome Center
Published November 26, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College chapter of Phi Theta Kappa will lead a food and hygiene drive from Dec. 2-13 to benefit a mission for friends and families of inmates housed in Amarillo’s Clements and Neal units – the Hope Welcome Center.
AC Student Media captures 20 awards – 2 firsts – at convention
Published November 20, 2019 By Joe WyattAC Student Media has received the results from competitions conducted at this year’s Texas Community College Journalism Association (TCCJA) convention that took place Oct. 18 in Waco. Results were delayed due to a technical issue.
Civil War-themed Creative Mind Series begins with author & exhibit
Published November 20, 2019 By Joe WyattFocusing on the substantial reverberations of the American Civil War, Amarillo College is kicking off its Creative Mind Series with a lecture by noted author S.C. “Sam” Gwynne, and a photo exhibit courtesy of the Library of Congress.
AC’s Child Development Lab School achieves reaccreditation from NAEYC
Published November 19, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College’s Child Development Lab School has done it again – received reaccreditation from the world’s largest organization working on behalf of young children, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
AC receives grant in support of program that provides free bus rides
Published November 14, 2019 By Joe WyattThe transportation collaboration between Amarillo College and the City of Amarillo, which lets anyone with an AC identification card ride city buses for free, just received a big monetary boost from the Kresge Foundation.
The Campus Democracy Challenge recognizes AC for high voter turnout
Published November 12, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that it has received a Bronze-level Seal of recognition from the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge for having a significant percentage of its student body turn out to vote.
CLASS ACT: Wade Olsen, 30 years a paramedic, loves role as educator
Published November 7, 2019 By Joe WyattAlthough most of his experiences with the human condition fall well between the extremes, Wade Olsen, in 30 years as a paramedic, has been the first to welcome newborns into the world and the last to comfort persons departing it.
Amarillo College student organization plans observance of Veterans Day
Published November 5, 2019 By Joe WyattVeterans of Amarillo College Together, a student organization at AC, will lead a Veterans Day observance at 11:45 a.m. Monday, Nov. 11 at the Clock Tower on the Washington Street Campus.
Aspen Institute names AC a Top 150, Prize-eligible Community College
Published November 5, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Aspen Institute College Excellence Program today named Amarillo College as one of 150 community colleges eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among America's community colleges. Based on strong and improving student outcomes—including in learning, completion rates, employment rates and earnings, and equity—15 percent of community colleges nationwide have been invited to apply for the Aspen Prize.
Grand opening events on tap for AC's new high-tech hub, The Underground
Published October 24, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College will celebrate the launch of its preeminent technology hub - The Underground - with a pair of public Grand Opening events on Tuesday, Nov. 5 at the Washington Street Campus.
Trick-or-treaters invited to festival at AC's Washington Street Campus
Published October 23, 2019 By Joe WyattOne throughway at the Washington Street Campus will be crawling with dinosaurs, superheroes, zombies and other colorful characters when Amarillo College presents its annual Halloween festival called Trunk or Treat.
Special guest saxophonist to join Community Band for fall performance
Published October 23, 2019 By Joe WyattEach year at this time, the Community Concert Band steps up its rehearsals at Amarillo College in preparation for a musical celebration of Veteran’s Day. But anyone predicting ‘same song, second verse’ is more than a bit off key.
Student initiative at Tascosa High to be featured in national PBS program
Published October 18, 2019 By Joe WyattTascosa High School’s Snack Shak and Rebel Rack program was selected by American Graduate to be a featured segment on the national PBS program Journey to Jobs.
Day of the Dead exhibit at Amarillo College to open with reception Oct. 31
Published October 17, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Common Lobby Gallery at Amarillo College will come alive once again for a student art show celebrating the Day of the Dead - Día de Los Meurtos -an exhibit opening on Thursday, Oct. 31 with a broad spectrum of visual arts.
Hundreds of high school students to visit Amarillo College for Media Day
Published October 15, 2019 By Joe WyattAbout 400 high school students from across the Texas Panhandle will converge at Amarillo College’s Washington Street Campus for Media Day – from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 22.
Gov. Abbott appoints AC’s Tamara Rhodes to the Texas Board of Nursing
Published October 8, 2019 By Joe WyattSuccess is recognition at the highest level of state government, an achievement realized by Tamara Rhodes, assistant professor of nursing at Amarillo College, who has been appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott to the Texas Board of Nursing.
Success 360 helps high school seniors transition to AC and succeed
Published October 1, 2019 By Joe WyattHigh school seniors from throughout the area will explore Amarillo College programs and meet the faculty at Success 360, an interactive expo designed to help students make a smooth transition to AC – and to have success.
Ridership on rise as AC family takes advantage of free city bus rides
Published September 30, 2019 By Joe WyattElizabeth Hargis spent the first few days of the fall semester walking to the Washington Street Campus of Amarillo College, a necessary daily trek requiring just under an hour of her time.
College Gallery to feature exhibit by fourth-generation photographer
Published September 27, 2019 By Joe WyattPortraits of people from Denton, Texas, which fourth-generation photographer Byrd Williams IV has collectively dubbed The Walking Dead, will be featured in an exhibit from Oct. 7 to Nov. 13 at Amarillo College’s Southern Light Gallery.
CLASS ACT: Becky Byrd inspires her students to embrace public service
Published September 26, 2019 By Joe WyattBecky Byrd is speaking from her heart and from her own experiences when she encourages respiratory care majors at Amarillo College to embrace public service opportunities.
Application deadline is Oct. 15 to receive scholarships for 2019-20
Published September 19, 2019 By Joe Wyatt
Amarillo College students planning to apply for scholarships applicable during the 2019-20 academic year must submit scholarship applications no later than Oct. 15.
College to celebrate 90th Anniversary throughout year – starting Sept. 16
Published September 16, 2019 By Joe WyattSept. 16 marked a significant milestone for Amarillo College, which has not merely stood the test of time, but has long since exceeded the expectations of even its most visionary founders.
Lecture to focus on environmental impact of the swine industry
Published September 11, 2019 By Joe WyattA research scientist at Texas Tech University who specializes in swine nutrition and health will talk about the impact the swine industry has on the environment during an upcoming lecture at Amarillo College.
CLASS ACT: Larry Adams – policeman to lawyer to avid College professor
Published September 5, 2019 By Joe WyattAlthough his career pathway has been a bit circuitous, Larry Adams ultimately found his niche as a professor of history and political science quite possibly, as some evidence suggests, because it is in his DNA.
Non-profits to assemble on Oeschger Family Mall for AC’s Resource Fair
Published September 4, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, which is committed to helping students succeed not only inside the classroom but beyond, will present its 8th Annual Resource Fair from 9 a.m.-noon Tuesday, Sept. 10 at the Washington Street Campus.
AC’s Southern Light Gallery to feature still life photographs by Carol Sewell
Published August 22, 2019 By Joe WyattThe engaging still life photographs of Carol A. Sewell, a noted artist and documentary photographer from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, will be on display from Aug. 26 to Oct. 2 at Amarillo College’s Southern Light Gallery.
Food Bank to begin distributions of free fresh produce this fall at College
Published August 19, 2019 By Joe WyattThe High Plains Food Bank will be doling out free fresh produce – upwards of 1,000 pounds per visit – from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the first eight Tuesdays this fall semester on the Washington Street Campus of Amarillo College.
CLASS ACT: Dr. Asanga Ranasinghe sparks students’ interest in research
Published August 15, 2019 By Joe WyattThroughout a stellar academic odyssey that began in Sri Lanka and peaked under the tutelage of three Nobel laureates at the University of California Santa Barbara, Asanga Ranasinghe was attracted by opportunities for research.
AC again selected to lead Panhandle-wide Texas School Ready! project
Published August 12, 2019 By Joe WyattAC has received a two-year, $500,000 grant from TSR! to provide specialized training and resources to qualified Panhandle-area early child educators throughout the 2019 and 2020 school years.
AC gets lofty rankings from Nursing Explorer for best-value in Texas
Published August 9, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has been ranked by Nursing Explorer for having two of the best-value nursing programs in Texas.
No-fare fanfare – College, City leaders to roll out free bus rides for all at AC
Published August 7, 2019 By Joe WyattFree daytime transportation to and from three Amarillo College campuses – and anyplace else Amarillo City Transit buses go – is a windfall that AC students, faculty and staff can take advantage of throughout the 2019-20 school year.
College adding local radio personality to Matney Mass Media Wall of Fame
Published July 30, 2019 By Joe WyattA longtime Amarillo radio personality who is especially well known among fans of country music will become the 19th luminary to be installed on the Matney Mass Media Wall of Fame at Amarillo College.
AC faculty, students spend a week at International Music Festival in Spain
Published July 24, 2019 By Joe WyattTwo members of the Amarillo College music faculty and about a dozen students from Amarillo, most of whom attend AC or study in AC's Suzuki Program, recently visited Spain to participate at the Ávila International Music Festival.
CLASS ACT: Jim Laughlin has always gravitated to the music he loves
Published July 17, 2019 By Joe WyattWhile towing a U-Haul trailer to Austin in 1989, Jim Laughlin pulled into a gas station at the Washington Street exit on I-40 and, quite unexpectedly, abandoned his road trip and embarked instead on a lasting adventure at Amarillo College.
Savory campaign leads to national recognition for Panhandle PBS
Published July 12, 2019 By Joe WyattIn commending the efforts of its member station in Amarillo, Texas, PBS helped put to rest perceptions that major metropolitan areas hold a monopoly on large-scale, top-drawer epicurean events.
AC’s online Criminal Justice Program ranked in the Top 10 by BestColleges
Published July 11, 2019 By Joe WyattBestColleges has installed Amarillo College in the Top 10 on its list of Best Online Associate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice for 2019.
AC’s online Criminal Justice Program ranked in the Top 10 by BestColleges
Published July 11, 2019 By Joe WyattBestColleges has installed Amarillo College in the Top 10 on its list of Best Online Associate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice for 2019.
CLASS ACT: Robin Malone advocates for students as teacher and attorney
Published June 13, 2019 By Joe WyattRobin Malone, who began teaching Sunday school even before graduating from high school, might have pursued a career in education sooner had she not already aspired to an altogether different profession.
Applications being accepted for weeklong bioremediation internships
Published June 7, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College STEM majors and high school juniors and seniors planning to major in STEM fields are invited to apply for a select, weeklong research internship July 29-Aug. 2 featuring a hands-on bioremediation project.
Registration is open for 3rd annual Chalk It Up sidewalk art contest
Published June 4, 2019 By Joe WyattThe battle lines are currently being drawn for the third annual Chalk It Up, Amarillo College’s award-winning sidewalk art contest.
Academic excellence places 553 full-time students on AC Dean’s List
Published June 4, 2019 By Joe WyattThe academic excellence of 553 students during the spring 2019 semester has landed them on the Amarillo College Dean’s List.
June Jazz again features six weeks of free Tuesday concerts at College
Published May 23, 2019 By Joe WyattLocal jazz musicians are tuning up for yet another rhythmical rendition of June Jazz at Amarillo College, where free Tuesday evening concerts on the Washington Street Campus reign supreme – and not just in June anymore.
Amarillo College partnering with WGU Texas to make degrees accessible
Published May 22, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College and online, non-profit university WGU Texas are poised to sign an agreement aimed at streamlining the process by which AC graduates can pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees at WGU Texas.
AC educators receive John F. Mead Faculty Excellence Awards
Published May 21, 2019 By Joe WyattTwo outstanding members of the Amarillo College faculty – Dr. Claudie Biggers and Jessica Hill – were honored during spring commencement ceremonies as the 2019 recipients of the John F. Mead Faculty Excellence Award.
2019 AC grad among recipients of Headliners Foundation scholarships
Published May 16, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Headliners Foundation of Texas has announced winners of more than $70,000 in scholarships for the 2019-2020 academic year, and only one of the recipients attended a community college this year – Meghan Holland of Amarillo College.
CLASS ACT: Margie Netherton empowers her students to succeed
Published May 16, 2019 By Joe Wyatt“Communication is power,” says Margie Netherton, a professor of English at Amarillo College who, no matter the topic at hand, emboldens her students to examine how it relates to them personally.
Participants from 17 states slated to attend Poverty Summits at AC
Published May 15, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, a recognized leader in removing barriers of poverty that impede student success, once again will share its strategies with a national gathering, but this year a single summit on the Washington Street Campus will not suffice.
AC among 20 institutions included in AAC&U's Guided Pathways Project
Published May 14, 2019 By Joe WyattWashington, DC—The Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) announced today the 20 institutions – including Amarillo College – selected to participate in a new two-year project, Strengthening Guided Pathways and Career Success by Ensuring Students Are Learning.
AC student's persistence in ESL classes leads to statewide award
Published May 13, 2019 By Joe Wyatt
Khanhthong Sidara was only hoping to improve her language skills a bit by enrolling in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at Amarillo College, but she quickly became engrossed in the process and set her sights higher.
Voters approve bond referendum for College; three Regents re-elected
Published May 6, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo voters gave their go-ahead to a variety of projects and initiatives that will enhance the Amarillo College landscape with passage of an $89.206 million bond referendum in the May 4 election.
Increase in graduates necessitates two commencement ceremonies
Published May 1, 2019 By Joe WyattA steady upsurge in the number of graduates has led Amarillo College, for the first time in its 90-year history, to stage two commencement ceremonies this spring rather than one.
AC to establish Coding Academy for aspiring developers in spring of 2020
Published May 1, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Board of Regents has given its consent to establish a Coding Academy next spring featuring a full-stack development certificate for aspiring developers weighing careers in the ever-expanding high-tech industry.
Annual summer sidewalk art contest singled out for a Golden Touch Award
Published April 26, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Chalk It Up sidewalk art contest, a summertime collaboration between Amarillo College and Panhandle PBS, has been singled out for a prestigious Golden Touch Award.
Showcase will feature outstanding student paintings and photographs
Published April 25, 2019 By Joe WyattOutstanding student paintings and photographs produced in a pair of upper-level Creative Arts classes at Amarillo College – Photography Portfolio and Art Painting I – will be on display May 1-9 at the Common Lobby Gallery.
Women to take part in intensive exploration of technical careers at AC
Published April 25, 2019 By Joe WyattWomen who want to learn about technical-career opportunities long associated with the male gender will get that chance on Friday, May 3 when Amarillo College hosts “Women in Industry” on the East Campus.
Clarification of plan to create an Innovation Hub at Downtown Campus
Published April 24, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Board of Regents voted in May of 2018 to pursue a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce that would provide some funding for the creation of an Innovation Hub at the Downtown Campus.
CLASS ACT: Kim Hays is that guy – the rare welder/plumber with a doctorate
Published April 18, 2019 By Joe WyattAfter dismissing a class at Amarillo College – in welding, metallurgy, HVAC or electromechanical systems – Kim Hays might relax with a good book, possibly a tome about organic chemistry or the science of genetics.
Annual LITE Luncheon raises money to assist students with disabilities
Published April 17, 2019 By Joe WyattEach year, Disability Services at Amarillo College spearheads a community-wide luncheon to raise both awareness of and funding for students with disabilities who are committed to Living Independently Through Education (LITE).
AC’s observance of Pinhole Photography Day begins with exhibit
Published April 12, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Creative Arts Community is pleased to announce plans to enhance its traditional observance of Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day with an exhibition of pinhole photographs created with a unique cast-iron camera.
College's STEM Lecture Series to feature biomedical research scientist
Published April 11, 2019 By Joe WyattA biomedical research scientist at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Pharmacy will talk about methodology used to investigate environmental pollutants during an upcoming guest lecture at Amarillo College.
AC students pick up some awards at collegiate IT competition in Galveston
Published April 10, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students emerged with several honors from a national information technology competition featuring about 250 participants from 38 colleges and universities – from Ball State to University of South Carolina.
College to host 400 high school students for creative arts conference
Published April 10, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College and the Texas Panhandle Art Education Association proudly present IGNITE: High School Creative Arts Conference, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, April 12 on the AC’s Washington Street Campus.
AC names Sharon Oeschger and the late Matthew Davenport Distinguished Alumni
Published April 9, 2019 By Joe WyattWhat Sharon Oeschger likes most about the thank-you notes she gets from students on the receiving end of scholarships she supports at Amarillo College are the heartfelt assertions they contain about one day emulating her kindness.
Michael Mattesi, creator of the FORCE drawing theory, returns for workshop
Published April 8, 2019 By Joe WyattMichael Mattesi, veteran animator, Disney and Pixar collaborator and creator of the FORCE drawing theory, returns in April to lead another detailed workshop for Amarillo College students interested in drawing and animation.
CLASS ACT: Dr. Hobbs brings direct knowledge to study of sciences
Published April 4, 2019 By Joe WyattFollowing a maritime stint in the U.S. Navy, Richard Hobbs achieved advanced degrees at a pair of major universities and then, with a newly acquired doctoral degree in tow, he charted a course for Amarillo College.
AC to host 200 PD students for annual Health Sciences Showcase
Published April 1, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College will open the doors of its West Campus to welcome about 200 Palo Duro High School students on Monday, April 15 for AC’s fourth annual Health Sciences Spring Showcase.
Exhibit in AC’s Common Lobby Gallery to feature inclusions in Freelancer
Published March 29, 2019 By Joe WyattArtwork accepted for publication in Amarillo College’s literary journal Freelancer will be on display April 4-27 at AC’s Common Lobby Gallery, and the exhibit will open with fanfare that recognizes the journal’s contributing authors, as well.
College to host board that oversees HAZWOPER training nationally
Published March 28, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, a leader in providing robust and efficient hazardous-materials training for Department of Energy (DOE) workers, will host a meeting of the national DOE advisory board that helps oversee that training nationally.
CLASS ACT: Jill Gibson, chair of Mass Media Program, puts students first
Published March 21, 2019 By Joe WyattJill Gibson’s office door is always open, and her students quickly discover they are welcome to visit, to vent, or to share thoughts and experiences that oftentimes are far more personal than academic.
Bill Crawford, whose career spanned 44 years, named professor Emeritus
Published March 20, 2019 By Joe WyattBy the time Bill Crawford retired as dean of health sciences at Amarillo College, he had served in various capacities under nine AC presidents and, equally remarkably, during the administrations of nine different U.S. presidents.
AC students collect 26 mass media awards at TIPA state convention
Published March 19, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Student Media has received 26 awards from the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA) for work completed during spring and fall 2018 semesters.
Focus will be on civic engagement at AC's ‘101 Reasons – 1 Week|1 Vote’
Published March 18, 2019 By Joe WyattRamping up civic engagement and voter awareness will be focal points when Amarillo College presents “101 Reasons – 1 Week|1Vote” March 25-29 on the Washington Street Campus.
Experts to elaborate on Thrive Scholarships at Facebook Live event
Published March 4, 2019 By Joe WyattExperts will elaborate on the basic details of the Thrive Scholarship Program during a Facebook Live event beginning at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 7.
Amarillo College garners a total of 17 national Advertising Awards
Published March 1, 2019 By Joe WyattJust days after capturing four national awards for digital marketing, the Communications and Marketing Department at Amarillo College garnered a windfall of 17 additional awards for its aggregate 2018 marketing efforts.
College presents Synaesthesia Art Show and reception in March
Published February 28, 2019 By Joe WyattA unique presentation of student artwork will be on display in March when Amarillo College presents the Synaesthesia Art Show in the Common Lobby Gallery.
Amarillo College campaigns earn four collegiate digital marketing awards
Published February 26, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Communications and Marketing Department at Amarillo College has earned four national collegiate marketing honors in the sixth annual Education Digital Marketing Awards – three at the topmost Gold level, and one for Merit.
AC claims accolades at the American Advertising awards banquet
Published February 25, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College visual arts and mass media students won several prestigious awards at the Amarillo chapter of the American Advertising Federation’s 2019 Advertising Awards banquet Feb. 23 in Canyon.
Experimental filmmaker Riley Harmon to share his insights Feb. 27-28 at AC
Published February 22, 2019 By Joe WyattAn experimental filmmaker and artist whose time-based creations – films, objects, live experiences and installations – distort and question the nature of reality, will share his insights and deliver a public talk at Amarillo College.
Huang’s Hybrid Landscape to go on display at Southern Light Gallery
Published February 20, 2019 By Joe WyattHybrid Landscape, an exhibit of photographs by Ting Huang that feature conflicting cultural elements, will be on display March 4 through April 10 at the Southern Light Gallery on Amarillo College’s Washington Street Campus.
Achieving the Dream honors AC with national award for student success
Published February 20, 2019 By Joe WyattNational community college reform leader Achieving the Dream (ATD) on Feb. 19 named Amarillo College a co-recipient of its 2019 Leah Meyer Austin Award, a significant national accolade contingent upon measurable improvements in student outcomes.
Amarillo College Regents vote to place master plan initiatives on ballot
Published February 15, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Board of Regents unanimously voted today to place a Master Plan bond measure on the May 4, 2019 ballot. The bond, set at $89.206 million, will support projects and initiatives that have been identified through a yearlong master planning process.
Symphony will play AC graduate’s composition in Feb. 22-23 concerts
Published February 14, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College graduate Brad Johnson, presently a senior at West Texas A&M University, will be an honored guest of the Amarillo Symphony Feb. 22-23 for its world premiere performances of Ascension, a piece Johnson himself composed.
College's windfall includes 4 Golds from Collegiate Advertising Awards
Published February 13, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College marketing campaigns are among the top five percent of colleges and universities in the nation as just affirmed by the 2018 Collegiate Advertising Awards (CAA), which conferred seven awards on AC, four of which are Gold.
AC wins Bellwether Legacy Award for commitment to addressing poverty
Published February 5, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College continued to garner national acclaim for its ambitious No Excuses Poverty Initiative by winning the prestigious Bellwether Legacy Award on Feb. 4 at the 25th Anniversary Community College Futures Assembly in San Antonio.
AC adding programs in biotechnology, data science and diesel transportation
Published February 4, 2019 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Board of Regents has given its consent to launch three new academic programs later this year – associate of science (A.S.) degrees in biotechnology and data science, and an associate of applied science (A.A.S.) degree in diesel transportation technician.
Artist Steven Cost receives Lifetime Accolade from Marquis Who's Who
Published February 1, 2019 By Joe WyattSteven Cost, associate professor of Art at Amarillo College, has been presented with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by Marquis Who’s Who®, the world’s largest publisher of biographical profiles.
College's Natural History Museum is teeming with exotic specimens
Published January 31, 2019 By Joe WyattTucked away in the northernmost portion of Amarillo College’s Ordway Hall is a veritable swarm of globally collected insects – and droves of exotic mounted mammals, big-game fish and birds of prey.
College to present Student Honors and Faculty Recital on February 10th
Published January 30, 2019 By Joe WyattAccomplished faculty and gifted students will share the spotlight when the Amarillo College Music Department presents the Student Honors and Faculty Recital.
Diego Caetano and tenor Richard Resch to perform Schubert masterpiece
Published January 25, 2019 By Joe WyattThanks to a chance encounter aboard a train in distant Switzerland, a tenor and a pianist, virtuosos whose association had largely been limited to Facebook, are poised to perform a Franz Shubert masterpiece at Amarillo College.
AC's Automotive Technology program achieves national accreditation
Published January 24, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that its Automotive Technology program has achieved accreditation by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) in the category of Automobile Service Technology.
AC hoops player-turned-referee among Sports Hall of Fame inductees
Published January 22, 2019 By Joe WyattFrom its formative years well into the 1980s, Amarillo College enjoyed robust intercollegiate athletics, programs whose alumni authored many success stories.
AC obtains grant to integrate basic education, workforce training
Published January 17, 2019 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has received a $187,500* grant from the Texas Workforce Commission for the purpose of integrating basic education classes with workforce training programs to propel adult learners into high-demand jobs.
Number of students to attain the Dean's List at AC climbs to 663
Published January 4, 2019 By Joe WyattThe number of students achieving academic success at Amarillo College continues to climb. This is particularly true among full-time students – those eligible for inclusion on the Dean’s List.
Lippillo’s ‘constructed photographs’ go on display at AC on Jan. 14th
Published January 3, 2019 By Joe WyattThe “constructed photographs” of Dominic Lippillo will be on display from Jan. 14 through Feb. 27 at the Southern Light Gallery on Amarillo College’s Washington Street Campus.
VFW Post 1475 brightens Christmas for families of two student veterans
Published December 13, 2018 By Joe WyattThe holiday outlook visibly brightened for two Amarillo College student veterans and their families thanks to the generosity of Unit 6 of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1475.
Single mom challenged by poverty, dyslexia to speak at Commencement
Published December 11, 2018 By Joe WyattIn composing the speech she will deliver at Amarillo College Commencement, Alicia Morin decided to dwell less on what sets her apart and more on what she has in common with so many of her fellow graduates.
Engineering students use ingenuity, 3D printers to develop solutions
Published December 6, 2018 By Joe WyattUsing ingenuity, teamwork and the cutting-edge 3D printers at Amarillo College, first-year engineering students engaged in group projects this semester in response to specific requests from departments College-wide.
AC wins College Integration award from Texas Workforce Commission
Published November 30, 2018 By Joe WyattAn Amarillo College program designed to propel underprepared students to academic success and into the workforce received a prestigious first-place award Nov. 28 in Houston.
D. Higgs among Amarillo Chamber’s Top 20 Under 40 Award winners
Published November 30, 2018 By Joe WyattDewayne Higgs, Computer Information Systems (CIS) program coordinator at Amarillo College, was honored in October by the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, which named him to its list of Top 20 Under 40.
C. Jones named VP of employee and organizational development at AC
Published November 29, 2018 By Joe WyattCheryl Jones, a longtime member of the leadership team at Baptist St. Anthony’s Health System (BSA), has been named vice president of employee and organizational development at Amarillo College.
Colleges, Hospitals form Consortium to increase number of rural nurses
Published November 28, 2018 By Joe Wyatt
Amarillo College, Frank Phillips College and four regional Hospital Districts are poised to announce the formation of a Consortium conceived to increase the number of homegrown nurses serving rural Panhandle communities.
Photos by Amarillo’s Joann Pruitt on display at Southern Light Gallery
Published November 20, 2018 By Joe WyattThe mixed-media photography of Amarillo’s Joann Lindsey Pruitt is on display in the Southern Light Gallery at Amarillo College.
Class modifies soil, other variables to simulate growing plants on Mars
Published November 12, 2018 By Joe WyattResearch well underway in the new greenhouse at Amarillo College is simply out of this world.
Occupational Therapy Assistant program to hold Open House Nov. 19
Published November 9, 2018 By Joe WyattThe Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program at Amarillo College invites anyone with an interest in OTA-related careers to learn more at an Open House from 2:45 to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 19 at AC’s West Campus.
AC student organization to lead observance of Veterans Day Nov. 12
Published November 9, 2018 By Joe WyattVeterans of Amarillo College Together (VETACT), a student organization at AC, will lead a Veterans Day observance at 11:45 a.m. Monday, Nov. 12 at the Clock Tower on the Washington Street Campus.
College to observe Accelerate TEXAS with Industry Showcase events
Published November 5, 2018 By Joe WyattEach November, colleges in Texas celebrate Accelerate TEXAS, an adult-education initiative aimed at putting people to work or into better jobs through events sponsored by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
AC students earn awards at information technology competition
Published November 5, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students were well represented in the winner’s circle at the regional meeting of the U.S. Information Technology Collegiate Conference (USITCC) hosted Oct. 25-27 at AC.
AC educator given Outstanding Impact Award by Quality Matters
Published November 2, 2018 By Joe WyattQuality Matters (QM), a nationally noted quality-assurance organization, has recognized a distinguished member of the Amarillo College faculty “for greatly improving the online environment for students.”
AC receives $210,000 grant to assess its systemic poverty initiative
Published October 30, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has received significant funding to conduct a collaborative self-study of its No Excuses Poverty Initiative. The findings may help set the bar for other colleges and universities striving to remove economic barriers to student success.
AC again captures highest national accolade for magazine 'The Current'
Published October 29, 2018 By Joe WyattFor the third year in a row, Amarillo College Student Media has captured a prestigious national award for its student-produced magazine The Current.
AC is host site for 3-day collegiate information technology competition
Published October 25, 2018 By Joe WyattAbout 140 students from more than a dozen colleges and universities will converge on Amarillo College this week to compete for medals at a regional meeting of the U.S. Information Technology Collegiate Conference (USITCC).
Thriving Community Concert Band is tuning up for uplifting fall concert
Published October 25, 2018 By Joe WyattThe chance to mingle and bond with fellow musicians lends to the allure of the Amarillo College Community Concert Band, but the ensemble actually owes its recent upsurge in participation to a far more intrinsic common denominator.
AC's Creative Mind Lecture Series: Black Renaissance of Pittsburgh
Published October 24, 2018 By Joe WyattThe Creative Mind Lecture Series this fall at Amarillo College turns its focus to the Great Migration of African-Americans in early 20th century America, a notable exodus from the rural south to northern cities like Pittsburgh.
College workforce to mobilize Oct. 27 for AC Cares fall volunteer day
Published October 18, 2018 By Joe WyattEffectively engaging almost 10,000 students is a tall order that keeps Amarillo College faculty and staff on their toes daily, but the active AC workforce still finds time to shift the focus from campuses to community on a given weekend.
Former AC student returns as director of College's ADN nursing program
Published October 17, 2018 By Joe WyattAs the new director of the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program at Amarillo College, Dr. Sandra Brannan happily finds herself back on familiar ground.
AC mass media students capture 19 awards – 2 for overall excellence
Published October 15, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College mass media students excelled, and a former AC faculty member was enshrined, at the Texas Community College Journalism Association (TCCJA) convention Oct. 11-12 in Commerce.
Day of the Dead exhibit at Amarillo College opens with reception Oct. 25
Published October 12, 2018 By Joe WyattThe Common Lobby Gallery at Amarillo College will come alive for a student art show celebrating the Day of the Dead – Día de Los Meurtos – an exhibit opening on Thursday, Oct. 25 with a broad spectrum of visual arts.
Success 360 helps seniors discover communities & transition to College
Published October 10, 2018 By Joe WyattHigh school seniors from throughout the area will be introduced to the programs and faculty of Amarillo College at Success 360, an event designed to help students make a smooth transition to college and be successful.
Former staffers to help AC's FM90 celebrate World College Radio Day
Published October 3, 2018 By Joe WyattDozens of former staffers will be returning to the Amarillo College broadcast booth on Friday, Oct. 5 to help their esteemed radio station – FM90 – celebrate World College Radio Day.
AC student publication in contention for third Pacemaker in four years
Published October 2, 2018 By Joe WyattThe Matney Mass Media Program at Amarillo College continues to demonstrate that it has few peers nationally in the highly competitive arena of student-produced collegiate magazines – among two- and four-year schools, alike.
Public invited to an Open House at AC’s newly renovated Community Link
Published September 28, 2018 By Joe WyattSuccess is a completely refurbished Community Link, the focal point of adult educational services in north Amarillo, which Amarillo College plans to unveil in October at a show-and-tell Open House.
College offers free Swift coding seminar to area high school teachers
Published September 26, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, through its unique partnership with Apple, Inc., will host a free two-day intensive training seminar for up to 20 area high school teachers interested in learning Swift coding for iOS and Mac apps.
Workforce Solutions offers free career-development assistance at AC
Published September 25, 2018 By Joe WyattSuccess is free career-development assistance offered by Workforce Solutions Panhandle twice weekly on the Washington Street Campus of Amarillo College.
AC student wins Best Print of Show in amateur photography at TriState Fair
Published September 25, 2018 By Joe WyattAshley Denham, a general studies major at Amarillo College, has a penchant for photography that is beginning to blossom.
Michael Mattesi, creator of FORCE drawing theory, to share insights
Published September 21, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College Art Collective is pleased to announce that veteran animator Michael Mattesi, author of the FORCE drawing books and creator of the FORCE drawing theory, will share his insights and expertise over three days at AC.
Register now: Fresh slate of 8-week classes to commence on Oct. 22
Published September 20, 2018 By Joe WyattEven with October fast approaching, it is not too late to enroll in fall classes at Amarillo College. In fact, right now is an excellent time to register for the next round of 8-week classes, which begin Oct. 22.
Public invited to Open House at AC’s new greenhouse; lecture to follow
Published September 13, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College invites the entire community to take part in a midday dedication of its recently completed STEM Research Center during a celebratory Open House on Thursday, Sept. 27.
AC’s creativity will be on display at the Visual Arts Faculty Art Show
Published September 12, 2018 By Joe WyattA striking variety of creative works will be on display for three weeks – Sept. 20 to Oct. 12 – when Amarillo College presents the Visual Arts Department’s Faculty Art Show in AC’s Common Lobby Gallery.
AC legal studies coordinator Robin Malone chosen to join AISD Trustees
Published September 11, 2018 By Joe WyattRobin Malone, coordinator of the Legal Studies Program at Amarillo College, is the unanimous choice to fill a vacancy on the Amarillo Independent School District’s Board of Trustees.
Former AC student explains research and Ph.D. pathway to Biology Club
Published September 11, 2018 By Joe WyattShyanne Page, who attended Amarillo College in 2010-11, is on course to complete her doctoral studies in pharmaceutical sciences in March at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Amarillo.
Mary Jane Johnson, voice-artist in residence, to lead Amarillo Opera
Published September 10, 2018 By Joe WyattMary Jane Johnson envisions an Amarillo Opera that incorporates much more homegrown talent and a bit less actual music – only those selections deemed captivating, none that are likely to hold one captive.
AutoInc provides generous monetary gift to assist AC students in need
Published September 10, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College strives to remove barriers of poverty that could impede student success, and now, with a generous gift, can provide even more support for students when unexpected emergencies arise.
Southern Light Gallery to feature new exhibit titled Narcissus Narcosis
Published September 5, 2018 By Joe WyattPhotographs by Michael Amato that focus on society’s relationships with the 24/7 news cycle, social media, propaganda, and more will be featured in an exhibit in the Southern Light Gallery at Amarillo College.
PBS ‘neighborhood’ video nationally praised by Fred Rogers Productions
Published August 30, 2018 By Joe WyattVideographers from Panhandle PBS and Amarillo College this summer enlisted an eager assortment of harmonious neighbors to help celebrate 50 years of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.
AC, WTAMU to ratify music-transfer agreement, present renowned pianist
Published August 27, 2018 By Joe WyattWith an acclaimed guest pianist waiting in the wings, high-ranking officials from Amarillo College and West Texas A&M University will ratify a formal agreement on Sept. 4, ensuring the seamless transfer of credit hours in music from AC to WTAMU.
Greenhouse attained award-winning pedigree before opening its doors
Published August 24, 2018 By Joe WyattThe new greenhouse at Amarillo College has only just opened its doors to the academic community and already it possesses an award-winning pedigree.
Kritser Diesel Program acquires new skid steer from generous namesake
Published August 17, 2018 By Joe WyattThe Kritser Diesel Program at Amarillo College has received a significant gift from its namesake – John Kritser, president of Yellowhouse Machinery – who on Aug. 15 presented AC with a new John Deere skid-steer loader.
Texas singer-songwriters featured in photo exhibit at Amarillo College
Published August 16, 2018 By Joe WyattGary Goldberg’s images of Texas Singer-Songwriters will be on display Aug. 20 to Sept. 12 at the Southern Light Gallery on Amarillo College’s Washington Street Campus.
College and WTAMU collaborate on screenings of western films at AC
Published August 14, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College and the Center for the Study of the American West (CSAW) at West Texas A&M University are collaborating to screen and discuss two classic western films this month at AC.
AC nursing graduates surpass state and national average on NCLEX
Published August 13, 2018 By Joe WyattData released by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing confirms that Amarillo College graduates continue to exhibit exemplary first-time pass rates on the national licensure exam – the NCLEX – for registered nurses.
Students new this fall can get acquainted at Communities Week
Published August 3, 2018 By Joe WyattStudents new to Amarillo College this fall can get a head start on their first semester by attending Communities Preview Week.
College to host 24-hour Yellow City Hack-A-Thon – free – Aug. 11 and 12
Published August 1, 2018 By Joe WyattPeople who are passionate about using technology for creative problem solving and innovation are invited to participate in the upcoming Yellow City Hack-A-Thon at Amarillo College.
Register now: Horticulture Program and new greenhouse taking root at AC
Published July 18, 2018 By Joe WyattSuccess is a schedule of classes that conforms to a busy lifestyle without breaking the bank, and each day prospective students are checking those boxes and more at Amarillo College.
The Chronicle of Higher Ed recognizes AC as a ‘Great College to Work For’
Published July 16, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has been named a “Great College to Work For” in The Chronicle of Higher Education’s eleventh annual survey on the academic workplace.
AC recognized as consortium’s most efficient hazardous-materials trainer
Published July 13, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College recently received recognition for its efficiency when leveraging federal funding and received $10,000 to augment its robust hazardous-materials training program for Department of Energy (DOE) workers.
Diego Caetano caps his European excursion with a top prize in Romania
Published July 12, 2018 By Joe WyattDr. Diego Caetano left a vivid Amarillo College imprint across Europe in June by teaching piano master classes in a number of countries and capping his sojourn by winning the top prize at a prestigious international piano competition.
College's most prestigious faculty honor is presented to Karen White
Published June 29, 2018 By Joe WyattKaren White empathizes with those of her students at Amarillo College who initially struggle to grasp the intricacies of mathematics. After all, she too grappled with the subject as an undergrad.
AC’s Chalk It Up sidewalk art contest once again features $900 in prizes
Published June 26, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College’s Chalk It Up sidewalk art contest is back and encourages participants to express the wealth of their imaginations.
AC again chosen to administer multi-million-dollar adult literacy grant
Published June 26, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is adept at putting adult learners on the path to both academic and workforce success, and the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is once again tapping AC’s expertise to lead a Panhandle-wide adult literacy initiative.
Thrive Amarillo Scholarship Program to begin enrolling immediately
Published June 22, 2018 By Wesley CondrayThe Thrive Amarillo Scholarship Program is officially launching for students in Amarillo ISD. The partnership of Amarillo College, Amarillo Area Foundation, Amarillo Economic Development Corporation, and Amarillo Independent School District is ready to accept 2018 graduates from all four AISD high schools – including the graduating class of 2018. To qualify for the scholarship, students should have an 80 or higher high school GPA and have never been placed in DAEP.
Analysis confirms AC tutoring services have significant impact on success
Published June 13, 2018 By Joe WyattStudents who take advantage of three free tutoring services at Amarillo College are far more likely to succeed in their corresponding courses than students enrolled in the same courses who do not seek supplementary instruction.
Participants from 14 states to attend AC’s No Excuses Poverty Summit
Published June 5, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has become a national leader in removing barriers of poverty that impede student success, and other colleges and universities have not only taken note, many are turning to AC this spring to learn more about what works.
Academic excellence places 600 full-time students on AC Dean’s List
Published June 4, 2018 By Joe WyattSuccess is another semester at Amarillo College marked by a significant upsurge in the number of full-time students who achieved academic excellence.
June Jazz expands in 2018, features six weeks of free concerts at AC
Published May 23, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, a popular destination for jazz enthusiasts on Tuesday nights in June, will present more free concerts this summer on the Washington Street Campus than ever before – as June Jazz for the first time extends well into July.
Amarillo College introduces Drone License Prep classes this summer
Published May 16, 2018 By Joe WyattFrom filming live events to monitoring wildlife habitats, surveying inaccessible terrain, or inspecting remote power lines, drone usage, both recreational and commercial, is definitely on the rise.
AC is ranked among the Top 50 Best Value Community Colleges for 2018
Published May 15, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that it has been ranked 26th nationally in Value Colleges’ Top 50 Best Value Community Colleges of 2018.
Kim Crowley selected as next dean of health sciences at Amarillo College
Published May 14, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that one of its own exceptional administrators, Kimberly Crowley, has been selected to serve as the College’s next dean of health sciences.
AC students discover lichens new to Panhandle; one may be first in Texas
Published May 9, 2018 By Joe WyattA team of Amarillo College student researchers was rewarded on a recent expedition to Ceta Canyon by the discovery of two new records for lichens in the Texas Panhandle, one of which may be the first such sighting in the state.
AC student channels his passion for computers into Spring Graduation
Published May 7, 2018 By Joe WyattWorried that his favorite pastime might lose its allure if he made it his life’s work, computer enthusiast Marshal Homfeld initially shied away from majoring in computer information systems (CIS) at Amarillo College.
AC to award Level I Certificates to 33 Technical Dual Credit students
Published May 7, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College this month will present 33 local high school students with Level I Machining or Automotive Certificates, credentials earned through AC’s Technical Dual Credit Program and made possible by a grant from the Trellis Foundation.
AC to add Tony Freeman, printer and mentor, to Mass Media Wall of Fame
Published May 1, 2018 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Matney Mass Media Program is pleased to announce that it will honor Tony Freeman, who has served as printer and mentor for the College’s award-winning student magazine “AC Current” since its inception in 1971.
Pell-eligible students can now receive additional funds for summer classes
Published May 1, 2018 By Joe WyattA new provision in the Federal Pell Grant Program gives eligible students the option of accessing additional federal funds to cover the cost of summer classes.
AC accepting applications for Summer Research Internships for STEM majors
Published April 27, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College STEM majors and high school seniors planning to major in STEM fields are invited to apply for a select, week-long research internship in August featuring hands-on study in the College’s new greenhouse.
AC students inducted into National Adult Education Honor Society
Published April 25, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce the induction this spring of 32 students into the National Adult Education Honor Society (NAEHS).
AC theatre major is national finalist for lighting design, visits nation’s capital
Published April 24, 2018 By Joe WyattSuccess is an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., which is exactly what Jason Driver earned by winning the regional round at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) in San Angelo.
Happy State Bank funds playground for AC’s Hagy Center for Young Children
Published April 20, 2018 By Joe WyattKids who attend Amarillo College’s Hagy Center for Young Children soon will have a unique new playground on which to run, ride, climb and learn life skills, courtesy of a generous gift of $100,000 from Happy State Bank.
AC and River Road ISD to celebrate Diplomas and Degrees partnership
Published April 18, 2018 By Joe WyattRiver Road Independent School District and Amarillo College are pleased to announce a joint celebration of the Diplomas and Degrees partnership that has already placed 15 River Road students on the path to associate degrees at AC.
Noted pianist David Korevaar to perform in Guest Artist Recital at AC
Published April 17, 2018 By Joe WyattDavid Korevaar, a prolific recording artist and the Helen and Peter Weil Professor of Piano at the University of Colorado Boulder, will be the featured performer in a Guest Artist Recital at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 26 at Amarillo College.
Careers in creative arts is the topic for a new panel-discussion series at AC
Published April 16, 2018 By Joe WyattThe Creative Arts Community at Amarillo College is pleased to introduce a series of career-focused panel discussions featuring successful creative arts professionals with a wide range of expertise.
AC’s observance of Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day begins with exhibit
Published April 16, 2018 By Joe WyattSuccess is seeing the big picture, so Amarillo College will enhance its traditional observance of Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day – Sunday, April 29 – with a weeks-long exhibit of nostalgic pictures in the pinhole style.
AC’s LITE Luncheon raises money to assist students with disabilities
Published April 13, 2018 By Joe WyattEach year, disAbility Services at Amarillo College spearheads a vital community-wide luncheon to raise not only awareness, but funding for people with disabilities who are committed to Living Independently Through Education (LITE).
Host of ‘Central Texas Gardener’ to be speaker for AC’s STEM Lecture Series
Published April 13, 2018 By Joe WyattTom Spencer, longtime host of the weekly Public Television series, Central Texas Gardener, will be the featured speaker when Amarillo College presents the inaugural installment of an exciting new STEM-focused lecture series.
College once again to host Mayor’s Breakfast for Friends of Young Children
Published April 10, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo Mayor Ginger Nelson will introduce her 2018 Friend of Young Children – Rod Tweet – at the annual Friend’s Breakfast, which will take place at 8 a.m. Thursday, April 19 at Amarillo College.
CIS majors from Amarillo College shine at national competition in San Antonio
Published April 10, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students demonstrated their ability to successfully compete on a national stage by emerging from the inaugural U.S. Information Technology Collegiate Conference with two second-place awards and an honorable mention.
New life-saving defibrillator donated to Amarillo College Police Department
Published April 6, 2018 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Police Department has a new piece of life-saving equipment – an automated external defibrillator (AED) – thanks to a generous chain of sandwich shops and Lodge 57 of the Texas Fraternal Order of Police.
AC to host 200 Palo Duro students at Health Sciences Showcase
Published April 5, 2018 By Joe WyattApproximately 200 students from Palo Duro High School will converge on Amarillo College’s West Campus – from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, April 16 – for the third annual Health Sciences Showcase.
College to welcome Canyon schools into its Diplomas & Degrees program
Published April 4, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College and the Canyon Independent School District are poised to ratify an agreement that will give qualified CISD students the opportunity to pursue full associate degrees in general studies beginning in the ninth grade.
AC to host autism awareness event – activities for kids, 5K run/walk
Published April 2, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College will join forces with the Panhandle ABA Resource Association (PARA) on Saturday, April 14 to host an activity-filled morning that includes the inaugural BLUE MAN DASH, a 5K run and autism awareness walk.
College partnering with Apple to deliver app-development program
Published March 29, 2018 By Joe WyattSwift, a popular programming language used worldwide, will soon put Amarillo College students on the path to coding know-how and designing their own apps – critical job skills in software development and information technology.
Curator René West’s photographs on display at AC’s Southern Light Gallery
Published March 29, 2018 By Joe WyattImages created by René West, assistant professor of photography at Amarillo College, are currently on display at AC’s Southern Light Gallery, for which West has served as curator since fall of 2016.
AC students capture more than 50 media awards at state convention
Published March 26, 2018 By Joe WyattEvery spring, Amarillo College Student Media returns from the Texas International Press Association (TIPA) convention loaded down with a heap of hard-earned accolades – the high-water mark was 28 awards in 2015.
Ken Pirtle named Professor Emeritus at AC; reception set for April 10th
Published March 26, 2018 By Joe WyattWhile dramatic innovations continuously transformed the field of photography, Ken Pirtle never lost his focus.
AC names longtime District Attorney James Farren Distinguished Alumnus
Published March 22, 2018 By Joe WyattJames A. Farren, who will retire this year after serving as Randall County’s criminal district attorney since 1995, has been selected to receive the 2018 Distinguished Alumni Award from Amarillo College.
Common Lobby Gallery to feature pair of stimulating springtime exhibitions
Published March 19, 2018 By Joe WyattA pair of stimulating exhibitions of student artwork, one also featuring prose, verse and photography, are on tap for visitors this spring to the Common Lobby Gallery at Amarillo College.
College to welcome AISD high schools into its Diplomas & Degrees Program
Published March 13, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College and the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) are poised to formalize an agreement that will offer qualified AISD students the opportunity to pursue full general-studies associate degrees beginning in the ninth grade.
AC to showcase 3 programs leading to careers in high-demand fields
Published March 9, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College will showcase three programs of study this spring – in Business Management, Business Technology and Child Care – each with the potential to propel adult students into high-demand occupations.
AC acquires a grant for the specialty training of healthcare practitioners
Published March 9, 2018 By Joe WyattArea healthcare is getting a shot in the arm thanks to a grant in excess of a half-million dollars that has been awarded to Amarillo College and three partners by the Texas Workforce Commission.
College students, faculty to explore capital of France over Spring Break
Published March 5, 2018 By Joe WyattSuccess is the variety of travel-abroad opportunities that Andreanna Simpson has seized at Amarillo College.
AC is a finalist for national community college CEO/Trustees Award
Published February 28, 2018 By Joe WyattThe model of outstanding leadership and teamwork exemplified by the President and Board of Regents at Amarillo College has just been conspicuously recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).
Instructor’s photographs of Hispanic culture on display at Amarillo College
Published February 27, 2018 By Joe WyattImages of the vibrant Hispanic culture of south Odessa, captured in the early 1980s by Brent Cavanaugh, now chairman of the Visual Arts Department at Amarillo College, are currently on display at AC’s Southern Light Gallery.
AC mines gold and more at American Advertising Federation awards banquet
Published February 26, 2018 By Joe WyattAccolades for Best of Show and a Special Judges’ Award accentuated the sweeping excellence of Amarillo College students and staff at the 2018 awards banquet of Amarillo’s chapter of the American Advertising Federation.
College receives third $100,000 safety grant from Texas Mutual Insurance
Published February 23, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is well positioned to continue providing free safety-training courses for area businesses thanks to another generous grant courtesy of the Texas Mutual Insurance Company.
AC Foundation will award more than $1 million in scholarships in year ahead
Published February 21, 2018 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Foundation will award more than $1 million in scholarships in the year ahead, and students planning to attend AC next fall are encouraged to submit scholarship applications by the priority deadline, which is March 1.
AC claims rare judge’s choice honor at Collegiate Advertising Awards
Published February 13, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is among the top one percent of colleges and universities in the nation, as affirmed by the Collegiate Advertising Awards program, which honored AC with a rare judge’s choice award, one of only three conferred nationwide.
AC's spring enrollment holds steady despite downward national trend
Published February 1, 2018 By Joe WyattWith spring enrollment holding steady, Amarillo College is successfully bucking the downward enrollment trend of the last three years among community colleges nationwide.
Palace Coffee debuts Thursday, Feb. 1 on AC’s Washington Street Campus
Published January 30, 2018 By Joe WyattSuccess is the alluring aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting weekdays throughout the Washington Street Campus at Amarillo College.
Faculty Recital again coincides with opening of Common Reader Art Show
Published January 30, 2018 By Joe WyattThe music faculty at Amarillo College once again will unite to present a unique musical showcase – the Faculty Recital – which again coincides with an exhibition of competitive student art based on AC’s Common Reader.
AC’s paramedic program buoyed by ties to Amarillo Medical Services
Published January 29, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is committed to aligning its degree and certificate programs with labor market demand, and industry partnerships play an important role in helping shape workforce pipelines that benefit graduates and businesses, alike.
College offers truck driver training for English language learners
Published January 29, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is offering a program designed to help English language learners obtain a commercial driver license (CDL) and prepare for careers in professional truck driving.
More than 600 full-time students included on AC's fall Dean’s List
Published January 25, 2018 By Joe WyattSuccess is a significant upsurge in the number of full-time Amarillo College students who are achieving academic excellence.
AC Growth Conference features notable speakers, host Jody Holland
Published January 23, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College and noted corporate leadership trainer and author Jody Holland are teaming up to deliver a yearlong Learn-2-Lead management program based on Holland’s book Yay! I’m a Supervisor! Now What?!
AC to present student appreciation concert Feb. 9 featuring The Deltaz
Published January 23, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College’s Creative Arts Community, AC radio station FM90 and Panhandle PBS are teaming up to present a free Student Appreciation Concert on Friday, Feb. 9 featuring The Deltaz.
AC perfect launching pad to medical school for former Presidential Scholar
Published January 22, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College served as the perfect launching pad for Abbie Biggers, who this past fall received dream-come-true offers of acceptance from three medical schools in Texas.
President Lowery-Hart to help steer financial aid policy in Washington D.C.
Published January 17, 2018 By Joe WyattAmarillo College President, Russell Lowery-Hart, has been invited by the United State Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions to help develop policies regarding student financial aid.
AC Police Department receives state funding for new rifle-resistant vests
Published January 16, 2018 By Joe WyattOfficers of the Amarillo College Police Department will be better protected than ever before thanks to an award of $8,745 the College recently received from the state of Texas to purchase rifle-resistant vests.
AC Scholars to embark on service-learning trip to Dominican Republic
Published January 3, 2018 By Joe WyattA dozen students in the Presidential Scholars program at Amarillo College will become teachers for a week when they visit an elementary school in Monte Cristi, a rural fishing town in the northwest region of the Dominican Republic.
A holiday tradition starts here: PBS airs recordings of local musical events
Published December 15, 2017 By Joe WyattPanhandle PBS is pleased to launch a new holiday tradition and enrich its December programming by airing high-definition recordings of local musical showcases featuring special holiday performances of Amarillo-area arts organizations.
Stephanie Birkenfeld becomes AC's first woman to serve as chief of police
Published December 13, 2017 By Joe WyattStephanie Birkenfeld, who launched her career as a student in the Law Enforcement Academy at Amarillo College and joined the AC Police Department in 2013, has been named AC’s chief of police, effective Jan. 1, 2018, replacing Steve Chance, who will retire at the end of this year.
VFW Post 1475 brightens Christmas for two student veterans and families
Published December 12, 2017 By Joe WyattChristmas came early for two Amarillo College student veterans and their families thanks to the unanticipated generosity of Unit 6 of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1475.
Support system keeps nursing student on track to December commencement
Published December 12, 2017 By Joe WyattSome daunting obstacles might have ended Karie Peters’ quest for a vocational nursing certificate – financial constraints, a hearing disorder, the immensity of a weekly commute to Amarillo College from her Cloudcroft, N.M. home.
Michael Kitten named Dean of Technical Education at Amarillo College
Published December 11, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College President Russell Lowery-Hart is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Kitten as Dean of Technical Education, effective January 2.
New Student Schedule Planner enhances AC's registration process
Published December 11, 2017 By Joe WyattSuccess is an integrated registration system that takes the guesswork out of degree planning and makes it easier than ever for college students and their advisors to plot the most efficient academic pathways.
Diesel technology major claims the top prizes for program excellence
Published December 6, 2017 By Joe WyattTuesday, Dec. 5 was a day to remember for Joe Riksen, who not only received multiple awards as the highest-achieving diesel technology major at Amarillo College, but who also began full-time employment in his chosen profession.
23 AC students to be inducted into National Adult Ed. Honor Society
Published December 1, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, which last summer established a chapter of the National Adult Education Honor Society (NAEHS), is now gearing up for the inaugural induction of adult AC students into the prestigious organization.
AC receives $30,000, 2nd-place award from Texas Workforce Commission
Published November 30, 2017 By Joe WyattAn Amarillo College program designed to propel underprepared students to academic success and into the workforce received a prestigious second-place award Nov. 29 in Dallas.
AC introduces truck driver training program for English language learners
Published November 28, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to introduce a program designed to help English language learners obtain a commercial driver license (CDL) and prepare for careers in professional truck driving.
Panhandle PBS will host The Wall that Heals at John Stiff Memorial Park
Published November 28, 2017 By Joe WyattOngoing regional efforts to honor veterans of the Vietnam War will experience a truly defining moment when Panhandle PBS serves as lead host for a much-anticipated visit to Amarillo by The Wall that Heals.
AC and Pantex extend hazardous-materials training to area industry
Published November 27, 2017 By Joe WyattAn alliance between Amarillo College and Pantex that has attracted significant federal funding to provide hazardous-materials training for Department of Energy workers is expanding its scope so that area industries can receive some of that training, too.
Continuing Ed. students also may join AC’s spring-break exploration of Paris
Published November 21, 2017 By Joe WyattIt is not too late to join a group of Amarillo College students and faculty who are making plans to spend spring break in France, a unique opportunity open to academic and continuing education students, alike.
College to observe Accelerate TEXAS Week by celebrating its CNA Program
Published November 10, 2017 By Joe WyattEach November, colleges across Texas celebrate adult-education initiatives – the kind aimed at putting people to work or into better jobs – through a variety of events collectively called Accelerate TEXAS.
Program earns another commendation from the Texas Board of Nursing
Published November 7, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Texas Board of Nursing has released annual data confirming Amarillo College continues to have one of the state’s most successful programs for producing registered nurses (RNs) and has earned yet another commendation.
Presidents of AC, Tech to formalize unique Horticulture partnership
Published November 7, 2017 By Joe WyattThe presidents of Amarillo College and Texas Tech University on Nov. 16 will sign a unique articulation agreement aimed at successfully propelling future Horticulture majors at AC to degrees in Plant and Soil Science at Texas Tech.
AC student organization plans Nov. 9th observance of Veterans Day
Published November 6, 2017 By Joe WyattVeterans of Amarillo College Together, a student organization at AC, will lead a Veterans Day observance at noon Thursday, Nov. 9 at the Clock Tower on the Washington Street Campus.
New greenhouse at AC will provide a wealth of research opportunities
Published November 1, 2017 By Joe WyattThe future is brighter than ever for students in the STEM fields – science, technology, engineering and mathematics – at Amarillo College, where construction of a grant-funded greenhouse facility began Oct. 9.
Amarillo College captures highest national awards for 'AC Current'
Published October 30, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College student magazine, “AC Current,” has won two national awards for excellence. The Associated Collegiate Press and the College Media Association announced the awards during the annual fall national college media convention held from Oct. 25-29 in Dallas.
Dan Porter chosen to receive national college biology teaching award
Published October 26, 2017 By Joe WyattDan Porter, professor of biology at Amarillo College, received national recognition in October when the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) named him the 2017 recipient of its Two-Year College Teaching Award.
College workforce to mobilize Oct. 28 for AC Cares fall volunteer day
Published October 24, 2017 By Joe WyattSuccess is an Amarillo College workforce that effectively engages more than 10,000 students yet still finds time to occasionally turn its focus from campuses to community.
AC students intrigued by technology are invited to join Bash Script Crazy
Published October 23, 2017 By Joe WyattBash Script Crazy is a student organization at Amarillo College that offers academic, social and professional development opportunities to students who are interested in technology, regardless of their classification or major.
AC to welcome Ascension Academy into its Diplomas & Degrees Program
Published October 19, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College and Ascension Academy will formalize an agreement offering Ascension students the opportunity to pursue full general-studies associate degrees – beginning in the ninth grade – through AC’s Diplomas and Degrees Program.
AC fall lecture series focuses on the collections, art and music of War
Published October 16, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Creative Mind Lecture Series this fall at Amarillo College will be taking an in-depth look at how War has become a popular theme for museum collections, artwork and music.
College joins cybersecurity alliance with Department of Homeland Security
Published October 10, 2017 By Joe WyattOctober is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month and the Computer Information Systems Department at Amarillo College will observe it like never before – through a new alliance with the Department of Homeland Security.
AC students capture 23 journalism awards at college convention
Published October 9, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students brought home 23 awards, including several first prizes, from the Texas Community College Journalism Convention held Oct. 6 at the University of Texas at Arlington.
AC alumnus Dusty Green and wife Nikki nominated for 3 Lone Star Emmys
Published October 6, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College alumnus Dusty Green, who went from editor of AC’s student newspaper to news director for an ABC affiliate – and then became co-host with wife Nikki of their own travel show – may soon add Emmy-winner to the résumé.
Marty Rowley of State Board of Education to address future teachers
Published October 5, 2017 By Joe WyattMarty Rowley, a member of the State Board of Education, will visit Amarillo College on Thursday, Oct. 12 to speak to aspiring educators about the future of public education in Texas.
College nominates two faculty for Minnie Stevens Piper Award
Published October 4, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has nominated two of its exceptional educators for prestigious Minnie Stevens Piper Professorships – Dr. Robert Bauman, professor of biology, and Edie Carter, dean of academic success.
AC alumni establish one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S.
Published October 3, 2017 By Joe WyattAltura Engineering & Design, one of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States, is a Texas success story whose three founders began laying the groundwork for their achievement at Amarillo College.
AC's FM90 to celebrate World College Radio Day with former staffers
Published October 3, 2017 By Joe WyattA number of former staffers will be special guests in the broadcast booth on Friday, Oct. 6, when Amarillo College radio station FM90 – 89.9 on the FM dial – observes World College Radio Day.
AC Distinguished Alumnus JD Souther to perform at Concert Hall Theater
Published September 27, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that renowned songwriter and 2017 Distinguished Alumnus JD Souther will appear in concert on Thursday, Oct. 26 at AC’s Concert Hall Theater.
AC student publication among finalists for another Pacemaker Award
Published September 26, 2017 By Joe WyattSuccess for the Matney Mass Media Program at Amarillo College is positively Current.
The AC program that only last year captured its first-ever National Magazine Pacemaker Award for the Fall 2015 issue of AC Current, the College’s student magazine, is a finalist for the same award in 2017.
AC establishes chapter of national honor society to recognize adult ESL, HSE students
Published September 26, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College established a chapter of the National Adult Education Honor Society (NAEHS) this summer and will use the affiliation as a means of celebrating its adult education students.
Robert Hirsch, founder of AC’s Southern Light Gallery, to return for milestone anniversary
Published September 25, 2017 By Joe WyattSouthern Light Gallery at Amarillo College, which has displayed the work of innovative and upcoming photographers since 1977, will commemorate its 40th anniversary with an exhibit by founder Robert Hirsch, who will make a personal appearance at the College in October.
AC grads turn in 100-percent pass rate on respiratory care certification exam
Published September 21, 2017 By Joe WyattSuccess is a 100-percent pass rate on the national licensure exam, which is just what the latest cohort to graduate from the Respiratory Care Program at Amarillo College recently achieved.
Lubbock-area entrepreneur generously helps AC purchase pair of pianos
Published September 19, 2017 By Joe WyattVickie Wilks Wisian, a retired Lubbock-area entrepreneur, has a passion for music and a unique affinity for Amarillo College. Wisian, the mother of AC President Russell Lowery-Hart, has given the College $100,000 to equip the Music Department with a pair of sparkling new grand pianos.
College’s creativity goes on display at Visual Arts & Design Faculty Art Show
Published September 18, 2017 By Joe WyattA striking variety of creative works will be on display for two weeks – Sept. 21 to Oct. 5 – when Amarillo College presents the Visual Arts and Design Department’s Faculty Art Show in AC’s Common Lobby Gallery.
AC serving as host site for hazmat regulations train-the-trainer workshop
Published September 18, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College will host a three-day hazardous materials (hazmat) regulations workshop Sept. 26-28 that is being presented free to area businesses by the National Partnership for Environmental Technology Education (PETE).
Gallery talk at AC to focus on first-hand experiences of Vietnam War
Published September 18, 2017 By Joe WyattThe public is invited to a gallery talk on Thursday, Sept. 21 at Amarillo College featuring Mary Emeny, whose photographs of Vietnam, circa 1967-68, are on exhibit at AC, and decorated Vietnam War veteran Larry Barnett of Fritch.
Surgical Technologists Week shines spotlight on vital academic program at Amarillo College
Published September 12, 2017 By Joe WyattAs the population grows older and baby boomers reach retirement age, the volume of surgical procedures is bound to increase.
Amarillo College unveils opportunity for students to explore France over Spring Break
Published September 12, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is inviting its students to visit Paris, France over Spring Break next March as part of a travel-abroad opportunity that combines a selection of related spring classes with a sojourn to “The City of Light.”
AC ranks among top 10 of community colleges nationwide for student success initiatives
Published August 30, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College earns top marks from students, placing it above the mean and, in one instance, in the top 10 percentile for community colleges nationwide.
In the 2017 Community College Survey of Student Engagement report students at Amarillo College note an engaging faculty, heightened academic standards, and superior support beyond the classroom.
AC Music Department is pleased to introduce Young Artist Piano Series
Published August 29, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Music Department is pleased to announce a yearlong schedule of events featuring an international slate of accomplished visiting pianists, and a collection of talented AC students, too.
AC’s Young Artist Piano Series is the brainchild of Dr. Diego Caetano, assistant professor of music, who will be the initial featured performer when the series debuts on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at the Concert Hall Theater.
Panhandle PBS Vietnam War Project features music festival, Wall That Heals, and more
Published August 25, 2017 By Joe WyattPanhandle PBS will proudly honor veterans of the Vietnam War while spearheading a sequence of events and activities in conjunction with a much-anticipated documentary film series airing on public television this fall.
Amarillo College chooses ‘The Things They Carried’ as this year’s Common Reader
Published August 22, 2017 By Joe WyattA highly acclaimed collection of short stories about a platoon of American soldiers in the Vietnam War will serve as the Common Reader this school year at Amarillo College.
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien was a finalist in 1990 for both the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Critics Circle Award. The book will be utilized in a variety of AC classes throughout the year, including all First Year Seminar classes.
Success for Justin Johnson is the Student Government Association at Amarillo College
Published August 17, 2017 By Joe WyattAs a freshman last fall at Amarillo College, Justin Johnson didn’t know many people at first, and so to remedy that he decided to attend a prospective member’s party hosted by the Student Government Association (SGA).
AC well ahead of curve in compliance with new law requiring corequisite remediation
Published August 16, 2017 By Joe WyattA new law emerged from the Texas Legislature in June – signed by the governor – which requires the use of corequisite remediation for college students in developmental education courses.
Corequiste remediation is the alignment of developmental courses with credit-bearing courses, so that underprepared students can be placed simultaneously in both and thus achieve college success at a faster pace.
Free Concert highlights Amarillo College Suzuki Program’s 40th anniversary celebration
Published August 8, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Suzuki Program, which has been enriching young lives with music since 1977, will mark its 40th anniversary with a concert featuring some of its highly accomplished former students and teachers.
The 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 2 at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts.
AC’s Southern Light Gallery to feature Mary Emeny’s photos of war-torn Vietnam
Published August 8, 2017 By Joe WyattLongtime Amarillo-area resident and altruist Mary Emeny, who spent portions of 1967 and 1968 in war-torn Vietnam, will display a collection of her poignant photographs from that experience at Amarillo College.
Denese Skinner named Vice President of Student Affairs at Amarillo College
Published August 3, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College President Russell Lowery-Hart is pleased to announce the appointment of Denese Skinner as Vice President of Student Affairs, effective September 5.
Former AC voice major Sean Jones reaps a starring role in outdoor musical 'TEXAS'
Published July 28, 2017 By Mersadie NewsomeSean Evan Jones weighed college options as far distant as Tennessee before ultimately making the fortuitous decision to hone his singing voice and expand his academic horizons right here in his hometown at Amarillo College.
AC receives grant from National Science Foundation to provide STEM scholarships
Published July 21, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has been awarded a five-year grant by the National Science Foundation (NSF) totaling $628,000 to provide scholarships and research opportunities for STEM majors beginning this fall.
Techies of all skill levels invited to develop online event hub at area's 1st Make-a-Thon
Published July 19, 2017 By Joe WyattTechnology-minded individuals will meet at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11 for Amarillo Make-a-Thon, an all-night, problem-solving event conceived by Amarillo Tech Meetup, says co-organizer and Amarillo College CIS instructor Dewayne Higgs.
AC Diplomas & Degrees Program welcomes Bushland and Canyon school districts
Published July 12, 2017 By Joe WyattBy earning an associate degree at Amarillo College while he was still in high school, Myles Smith was able to achieve his bachelor’s and master’s degrees by the age of 22 – saving considerable time and money along the way.
Amarillo College to celebrate completion of construction projects at East Campus
Published July 10, 2017 By Joe WyattFriends of Amarillo College’s East Campus will gather there from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 11 to celebrate the completion of two construction projects that will significantly enhance the Aviation and Diesel Technology programs.
Amarillo College names famed songwriter JD Souther 2017 Distinguished Alumnus
Published July 6, 2017 By Joe WyattWhen JD Souther arrived in Los Angeles in the late 1960s, a bumper sticker on his car proclaimed “I got my start at Amarillo College.” And what a successful start it was for the new kid in town.
College announces a revised leadership structure within Academic Affairs
Published July 5, 2017 By Joe WyattDr. Tamara Clunis, vice president of academic affairs at Amarillo College, has officially filled her own previous position amid a restructuring that includes a shift of responsibilities for a trio of veteran AC academic leaders.
Amarillo College's Summer Youth Musical 'Fiddler on the Roof' takes center stage
Published July 3, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is proud to take the lead in support of a talented young cast in a longtime Panhandle tradition – the Summer Youth Musical – which presents “Fiddler on the Roof” July 7-9 at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts.
Amarillo College again serving as host site for 10-week National Polygraph Academy
Published June 26, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is becoming a popular summer destination for law enforcement professionals who want to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully administer polygraph examinations.
Amarillo College receives gift to establish Tool Center for students on East Campus
Published June 13, 2017 By Joe WyattA generous gift from the Leo Caiafa, Jr. Irrevocable Trust will have a direct and welcome impact on students pursuing technical degrees and certificates at Amarillo College.
Amarillo College summer enrollment rises by 13 percent as students seek completion
Published June 12, 2017 By Joe WyattSuccess is a concerted effort to inform students about the benefits of taking summer classes that leads to a 13-percent enrollment increase – as it has this summer at Amarillo College.
Sharron Fitzner’s art exhibit at Amarillo College to open with reception on June 15th
Published June 9, 2017 By Joe WyattAn Amarillo College art exhibit featuring paintings in various media by Sharron Fitzner will open with an artist’s reception on June 15 at Russell Hall, and the public is invited to attend.
Cash prizes up for grabs at Amarillo College’s Chalk It Up sidewalk art contest
Published June 8, 2017 By Joe WyattPicture this: A creative drawing contest this summer at Amarillo College that will temporarily transform the Oeschger Family Mall into a multicolored museum of chalk art.
Amarillo College to add two local television producers to Mass Media Wall of Fame
Published June 8, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is honoring two individuals responsible for creating hundreds of hours of high-quality, locally produced television and guiding AC students in the Matney Mass Media Program.
College receives $25,000 to establish scholarship honoring Gregg Jordan
Published June 7, 2017 By Joe WyattThe memory of Gregg Jordan will live in perpetuity at Amarillo College, where he faithfully served on the Foundation Board of Directors until his untimely death last November.
Tamara Clunis named vice president of academic affairs at Amarillo College
Published May 31, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College President Russell Lowery-Hart is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Tamara Clunis as vice president of academic affairs, effective June 1.
Amarillo College Board of Regents extends contract of President Lowery-Hart
Published May 30, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Board of Regents has voted to extend the contract of Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, Amarillo College president, for an additional five years.
Amarillo College names 496 outstanding students to the Spring 2017 Dean’s List
Published May 23, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that 496 outstanding, full-time students have been named to the Dean's List following the recently completed spring semester.
Free sports camps on tap for boys and girls who live in the 79107 ZIP Code
Published May 23, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo’s athletic youth who either live or attend school in the 79107 ZIP code are invited to develop their skills and have some fast-paced fun with free sports camps provided by Kids’ College at Amarillo College.
June Jazz returns for a 22nd season of free outdoor concerts at Amarillo College
Published May 18, 2017 By Joe WyattSuccess is June Jazz at Amarillo College, which is preparing to host its 22nd season of free outdoor concerts on Tuesday nights in June at the Washington Street Campus.
Baylor University and Amarillo College sign ‘Baylor Bound’ transfer agreement
Published May 16, 2017 By Joe WyattBaylor University and Amarillo College on May 16th announced the creation of a formal Baylor Bound transfer agreement to help students transfer more easily between the two institutions and continue to expand educational opportunities for young people across Texas.
Entrepreneurship Seminars offered at AC in June for English Language Learners
Published May 16, 2017 By Joe WyattEnglish language learners who want to own a business or upgrade an existing one are invited to register for a series of free seminars being offered in June at Amarillo College.
Amarillo College and Baylor University to formalize ‘Baylor Bound’ transfer agreement
Published May 11, 2017 By Joe WyattA formal agreement that will help students transfer seamlessly between Amarillo College and Baylor University will be signed by the presidents of both institutions at a ceremony beginning at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 16 at AC.
Art students from AC and WT will collaborate to paint a mural in downtown Amarillo
Published May 10, 2017 By Joe WyattA vibrant mural with elements indigenous to the Texas Panhandle soon will adorn a façade in downtown Amarillo thanks to some industrious students and faculty at Amarillo College and West Texas A&M University.
AC’s top diesel technology students awarded new tools for academic excellence
Published May 10, 2017 By Joe WyattSuccess is a superlative test score, and nobody knows that better than Duane King and Juan Olivares, the highest-achieving diesel technology majors at Amarillo College; they just parlayed their top scores into new tools.
AC names Kevin Ball VP of Communications & Marketing and CEO for Panhandle PBS
Published May 9, 2017 By Joe WyattKevin Ball has been named Vice President of Communications and Marketing at Amarillo College and CEO of Panhandle PBS, effective June 1.
Opera Scenes will feature performances by Amarillo College student vocalists
Published May 4, 2017 By Joe WyattFolks with a fondness for opera will have two opportunities in May to attend Opera Scenes – each an hour of free vocal performances by students under the tutelage of Mary Jane Johnson, professor of music at Amarillo College.
AC introduces Crunch Time to help students have successful finals-week experience
Published May 4, 2017 By Joe WyattSuccess is being prepared for final exams, and Amarillo College is introducing Crunch Time to provide students with a safe and productive environment to prepare and care for themselves during finals week.
Another AC Commencement for Dumas mom; this time it’s for her kids
Published May 3, 2017 By Joe WyattSuccess is Melissa Gonzalez.
When Melissa decided to pursue a second degree at Amarillo College she became so enthusiastic about her classes that she seriously considered attending her courses after giving birth just days before.
Successful summer at Amarillo College puts student on fast track to graduation
Published May 2, 2017 By Joe WyattThere are many excellent reasons for taking summer classes at Amarillo College – finishing faster, maintaining momentum, enhancing your grade point average, even catching some rays while you catch up on your reading assignments.
CODA grants Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program unconditional reaccreditation
Published May 1, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that its Dental Hygiene Program has received preliminary notification of full and unconditional reaccreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) for the next seven years.
Success Center puts AC students on pathways to academic achievement
Published April 27, 2017 By Joe WyattCollege newcomers in Texas who fail to meet minimums on the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) test are traditionally placed in time-consuming developmental classes. Amarillo College prefers individuality to a one-size-fits-all approach.
American Assoc. of Community Colleges tabs AC dean for prestigious accolade
Published April 25, 2017 By Joe WyattEdie Carter, interim dean of academic success at Amarillo College, has been named the recipient of the 2017 Faculty Innovation Award, a prestigious honor bestowed annually by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).
CIS majors from Amarillo College excel at national competition in St. Louis, Mo.
Published April 20, 2017 By Joe WyattMore than 450 collegians from 48 colleges and universities were attracted April 6-9 to St. Louis, Mo., for the AITP National Collegiate Conference and Career Fair, but few stood out like the contingent from Amarillo College.
Amarillo College earns Exemplary Status from Achieving the Dream consortium
Published April 19, 2017 By Joe WyattAchieving the Dream, the foremost national authority on community college achievement, innovation and success, has awarded Amarillo College Exemplary Status for its Leadership and Vision.
AC to conduct commencement for adult learners who achieved GED certification
Published April 19, 2017 By Joe WyattDozens of adult learners recently completed the requirements for GED certification through the Adult Education Literacy program at Amarillo College, and a graduation ceremony will be held in their honor.
Poet Kyle Schlesinger to give Guest Artist Talk on April 27th at Amarillo College
Published April 19, 2017 By Joe WyattKyle Schlesinger, poet and founder of Cuneiform Press, a nonprofit press specializing in poetry, typography and handcrafted books, will give a Guest Artist Talk on Thursday, April 27 at Amarillo College.
Amarillo College receives another $100,000 safety grant from Texas Mutual Insurance
Published April 19, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College can continue to provide free safety-training courses for the community thanks to the generosity of Texas Mutual Insurance Company, which for the second year in a row has provided the College with a $100,000 grant.
AC to observe Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day with free workshop
Published April 18, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Photography Department at Amarillo College is poised to help photography enthusiasts discover how a tiny pinhole can become a window to the world during a celebration of Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day.
AC to recognize its outstanding scholars at 2017 Honors Convocation
Published April 18, 2017 By Joe WyattThe public is invited to the Amarillo College 2017 Honors Convocation at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 23 in the Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium, where the academic achievements of approximately 600 students will be celebrated.
Moselle Ford named professor emeritus at Amarillo College; reception set April 27th
Published April 17, 2017 By Joe WyattMoselle Ford, retired associate professor of English, has been named Professor Emeritus at Amarillo College. Faculty Senate will host a reception in her honor on Thursday, April 27th at the Washington Street Campus.
Amarillo College alum Denisha Kranthoven is member of Pulitzer-winning team
Published April 13, 2017 By Joe WyattStory By Jenna Gibson, Ranger Reporter:
AC alum Denisha Kranthoven’s training at Amarillo College has led to a Pulitzer. This week, the former mass media student learned she was part of the news team that just won a Pulitzer Prize..
AC and WT will team up to paint Amarillo Activity Youth Center on Day of Caring
Published April 12, 2017 By Joe WyattLongtime education partners Amarillo College and West Texas A&M University are gearing up to serve as the lead sponsors for this year’s Day of Caring.
Amarillo College rolls out branding message that has Success written all over it
Published April 10, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has unveiled a versatile new tagline that underscores its core purpose to help every student succeed. Success Is will serve as the bedrock of AC’s brand.
AC presents LITE Lunch April 25th to bolster scholarships for students with disabilities
Published April 10, 2017 By Joe WyattEach year, disAbility Services at Amarillo College leads a community-wide effort to bolster scholarship funding for students with disabilities who are committed to academic success and to Living Independently Through Education (LITE).
AC students capture 18 mass media awards, including Overall Excellence, in Dallas
Published April 3, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College mass media students won 18 awards, including one for Overall Excellence, at the annual convention of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA) April 1 in Dallas.
Visiting Spanish clarinetist to present recital, masterclasses and a lecture at AC
Published March 31, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College is pleased to announce that David Jiménez, a visiting clarinetist from Spain, will present a guest-artist recital, a lecture and some masterclasses while visiting AC in April for an artistic residency in the Panhandle.
AC introduces program for English learners who want to become nurse assistants
Published March 29, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College this summer will introduce and offer a program designed specifically to help English language learners prepare for careers as certified nurse assistants (CNAs).
AC to host 200 Palo Duro High students for Health Sciences & Nursing Showcase
Published March 24, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College will open the doors of its West Campus to welcome 200 Palo Duro High School students on Monday, April 3 for AC’s second Health Science and Nursing Showcase.
Exhibit in AC’s Common Lobby Gallery to feature inclusions in Freelancer magazine
Published March 21, 2017 By Joe WyattArt and writings that have been accepted for publication in Amarillo College’s literary journal Freelancer will be featured from April 7-28 in the Common Lobby Gallery, and the exhibit will open with a flourish.
Women to take part in intensive exploration of technical careers at AC’s East Campus
Published March 21, 2017 By Joe WyattWomen who want to learn about technical-career opportunities long associated with the male gender will get that chance on Friday, March 31 when Amarillo College hosts “Women in Industry” on the East Campus.
Amarillo College to host Immigration Workshop to shed light on recent changes
Published March 13, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Legal Studies Program at Amarillo College will host an Immigration Workshop – free and open to the public – from 9 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, March 22 on the Washington Street Campus.
Libby Rowe's "Dwellings" next to take up residence in AC's Southern Light Gallery
Published March 13, 2017 By Joe WyattLibby Rowe’s engaging photographs of sculptural houses, a collection she has dubbed “Dwellings,” will be on display from March 27 to May 5 in the Southern Light Gallery at Amarillo College.
AC student's persistence in English as a Second Language leads to cash award
Published March 7, 2017 By Joe WyattEven with two languages now at her disposal, Amarillo College student Leticia Szego (SAY-go) was rendered speechless upon learning she was the winner of an award for persistence in English as a Second Language (ESL).
Legal Clinic has saved students thousands of dollars since its September launch
Published March 3, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Legal Studies Program at Amarillo College has helped dozens of AC students save thousands of dollars in legal fees since opening its doors last September on the Washington Street Campus.
American Association of Community Colleges names AC finalist for 2 awards
Published March 2, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College been notified that it has been shortlisted as a finalist for two prestigious awards to be presented by the American Association of Community College (AACC) at its annual conference April 22-25 in New Orleans.
AC Regents approve new AC Medi Park Campus - Hagy Center for Young Children
Published March 1, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Board of Regents has approved a partnership with the AAF Community Health Foundation to enable the College to operate the Hagy Center for Young Children. In addition, Regents also approved establishment of the AC Medi Park campus at the location of the Hagy Center for Young Children.
Alum grateful for abundance of activities and great people that helped him succeed
Published February 28, 2017 By Joe WyattJerry Wilson was a fraternity man at Amarillo College. He also played on AC’s baseball team, performed in plays that aired on closed-circuit TV, became a bit of a campus radio personality, and earned a buck an hour doing myriad jobs.
AC’s Law Enforcement Academy to conduct 114th graduation ceremony on March 9th
Published February 23, 2017 By Joe WyattGraduation of the 114th class of the Panhandle Regional Law Enforcement Academy at Amarillo College will be observed in a formal ceremony at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 9 at Oasis Southwest Baptist Church, 8201 Canyon Dr.
AC’s Suzuki Program will be celebrating its 40th anniversary at Annual Group Recital
Published February 23, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Suzuki Program will present its Annual Group Recital – a free public performance – from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 5 at the Concert Hall Theater on AC’s Washington Street Campus.
Best of Show among honors claimed by AC students at Advertising Awards Banquet
Published February 20, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College struck gold – and silver – and even captured a prestigious green jacket for Best of Show at the 2017 American Advertising Awards ceremony on Feb. 18 at West Texas A&M University.
Guest lecture at Amarillo College to feature techniques in alcohol-ink art
Published February 17, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Art Department at Amarillo College is pleased to announce that it will host a lecture featuring Amarillo artist Nina Stein for anyone interested in exploring techniques of painting with highly pigmented alcohol ink.
AC’s laptop-rental program addresses technological disparity among students
Published February 17, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College, aware that not all students enjoy equal home access to technology, is addressing the disparity by launching a new laptop-rental program intended to equip students with affordable computers.
AC’s vocational nursing grads achieve 95% first-time pass rate on national exam
Published February 16, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Vocational Nursing Program at Amarillo College has been notified by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing that its most recent graduates achieved a 95-percent first-time pass rate on the national licensure exam.
AC set to co-sponsor and participate in National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
Published February 10, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students and faculty from the Physical Therapist Assistant and the Dental Hygiene programs will be on hand for the Alive and Aware Health Explosion, a local event to recognize National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.
Thirty-four Amarillo College students selected for inclusion in Who’s Who
Published February 8, 2017 By Joe WyattSome exceptional Amarillo College students, 34 in all, have been selected for inclusion in the 2017 edition of Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges.
Southern Light Gallery to feature the manipulated photo imagery of Dick Lane
Published February 6, 2017 By Joe WyattThe highly manipulated photographic imagery of Dick Lane will be featured in an exhibit titled “The Iterated Landscape,” which will be on display from Feb. 13 to March 23 in the Southern Light Gallery at Amarillo College.
AC Finishers just getting started as a fresh semester unfolds – newcomers welcome
Published February 6, 2017 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College Finishers assembled Jan. 27 to launch a new semester of students encouraging students to achieve their academic goals, and veterans of the support group welcomed newcomers with refreshments and good cheer.
Adrian Ray hopes Amarillo College will serve as a springboard to medical school
Published February 1, 2017 By Joe WyattMeet Adrian Ray, a student of biology at Amarillo College who hopes one day to pursue a career in medicine – oh – and a football fan who would not be opposed to seeing the Patriots dissected in the Super Bowl.
AC captures prestigious Bellwether Award for commitment to addressing poverty
Published January 31, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College’s commitment to addressing poverty was hailed nationally on Jan. 31, when AC was presented with a prestigious Bellwether Award at the 2017 National Policy Summit and Futures Assembly in Orlando, Fla.
AC Transfer Fair offers students valuable opportunity to compare universities
Published January 30, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students who plan to transfer their credits and continue on their path to earn four-year degrees can interact with representatives from several universities on Feb. 7 when AC hosts its Spring Transfer Fair.
Grand opening of AC’s new gallery to feature student artwork, all-music-faculty recital
Published January 27, 2017 By Joe WyattThe School of Creative Arts at Amarillo College will showcase both student creativity and the vast expertise of its music faculty during the commemoration of a new gallery space on the Washington Street Campus.
AC Regents approve plan to proceed with design & construction of labs, greenhouse
Published January 25, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College received approval from its Board of Regents on Jan. 24 to proceed with design and construction of a greenhouse facility that is certain to prepare students for the latest in cutting-edge scientific exploration, research and attainment.
AC’s English as a Second Language classes remove barriers to success
Published January 24, 2017 By Joe WyattRam Zam is a 19-year-old who did not speak English when her family moved earlier this decade from Thailand to Texas. Amarillo College is committed to removing barriers to success and that includes language barriers, for students like Ram Zam.
Phi Theta Kappa spearheads LGBTQ Global Awareness Fair at Amarillo College
Published January 19, 2017 By Joe WyattSupportive organizations turned out Jan. 19 at Amarillo College to participate in the LGBTQ Global Awareness Fair, an event coordinated by AC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the international honor society.
Deadline is Feb. 17th to file for seats on the Amarillo College Board of Regents
Published January 10, 2017 By Joe WyattThe deadline for candidates to file for six-year terms on the Amarillo College Board of Regents is 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17.
Creative Mind Humanities Lecture Series takes in-depth look at World War I
Published January 5, 2017 By Joe WyattAmarillo College will commemorate the centennial anniversary of the United States’ entry into World War I with a series of lectures focusing on the global conflict that claimed millions of lives.
Photo exhibit at AC's Southern Light Gallery asks the question: "Did You See That?"
Published January 3, 2017 By Joe WyattRegional roadside architecture, sculpture and signage are the essence of a photography exhibit titled “Did You See That?” on display from Jan. 9 to Jan. 31 in the Southern Light Gallery at Amarillo College.
AC volunteers impacts community not just at holidays, but year-round
Published December 16, 2016 By Thomas deJesusWith little fanfare but heaps of heart, one unassuming band of volunteers repeatedly emerges from the Amarillo College workforce to put food on strangers' tables and gifts under their trees.
Amarillo College students capture 10 media awards at statewide competition
Published December 16, 2016 By Joe WyattThe Texas Community College Journalism Association has announced that Amarillo College mass media students won 10 awards in this year’s competition.
AC scholars preparing for a rare community college experience: a trip to Japan
Published December 14, 2016 By Joe WyattDark glasses might be an appropriate holiday gift for 13 Amarillo College students whose winter recess will be greatly brightened by an eye-opening jaunt through the Land of the Rising Sun.
AC emerges from an applicant pool of 3,000 to be named a finalist for the prestigious Bellwether Award
Published December 12, 2016 By Joe WyattAmarillo College’s commitment to addressing poverty has been recognized by the Community College Futures Assembly, which has named AC a finalist for a prestigious Bellwether Award.
Pinning ceremonies an emotional capstone for AC’s hard-working nursing students
Published December 9, 2016 By Joe WyattAmarillo College nursing students face a challenging curriculum, difficult tests, an arduous clinical component that often starts before sunrise and, finally, a rigorous national licensure exam.
Amarillo College faculty pianist to perform Dec. 14 in London’s famed Royal Albert Hall
Published December 8, 2016 By Joe WyattPerforming in London’s renowned Royal Albert Hall might be nerve-racking for even the most veteran of concert pianists, but Dr. Diego Caetano, assistant professor of music at Amarillo College, is not the nervous type. He will be more relieved than anything else when he plays at the notable venue on Dec. 14.
Amarillo College receives $55,000, first-place award from Texas Workforce Commission
Published December 7, 2016 By Joe WyattAn Amarillo College program designed to propel underprepared students to academic success and into the workforce received a prestigious first-place award today in Houston.
Register today for your choice of spring classes that begin Jan. 17 at Amarillo College
Published December 7, 2016 By Joe WyattIt is time to register for spring classes at Amarillo College. Both new and returning students can call (806) 371-5000, or visit actx.edu/enroll to get the straightforward process under way today.
Single mom chosen to speak at AC Commencement will share story of perseverance
Published December 5, 2016 By Joe WyattOn the same day that America Adame learned she was pregnant for a second time, her children’s father was sentenced to 45 years in prison.
Pair of AC student veterans uplifted by timely monetary gifts from VFW Post 1475
Published December 2, 2016 By Joe WyattThe holiday outlook visibly brightened for two Amarillo College student veterans and their families thanks to the unanticipated generosity of Unit 6 of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1475.
AC student shines on diesel certification exam and claims $250 worth of new tools
Published December 2, 2016 By Joe WyattChauncey Sieber, a diesel technology major at Amarillo College, was not thinking about winning a prize when he sat for a challenging diesel certification exam, but he won a rather nice one just the same – new tools valued at $250.
Selfless AC Students help lay groundwork for young adults who age out of foster care
Published December 1, 2016 By Joe WyattA dozen selfless Amarillo College students with a shared sense of compassion are hard at work this school year on behalf of some foster kids they’ve never even met.
Emergency Management Team at AC takes proactive approach to preparedness and safety
Published November 30, 2016 By Joe WyattThe Emergency Management Team is comprised of people in positions of leadership at AC campuses who have been charged with formulating strategies to maximize AC’s emergency preparedness and overall safety.
Texas Workforce Commission honors AC as a recipient of Performance Quality Improvement Award
Published November 22, 2016 By Joe WyattAn Amarillo College program designed to propel underprepared students to academic success and into the workforce is being recognized for its exceptional work by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).
AC Counseling Center provides free support to students during high-stress periods
Published November 21, 2016 By Joe WyattRemoving roadblocks to student success is among the highest priorities at Amarillo College, which is why the Counseling Center was established this fall on the Washington Street Campus – to address students’ emotional well-being.
Freshman’s Unwavering Enthusiasm for Amarillo College is Evident at First Semester’s Midpoint
Published November 17, 2016 By Joe WyattWe first met Yulissa Sandoval in August as she eagerly anticipated her first semester at Amarillo College. We caught up with her again at the semester’s midpoint and found that her enthusiasm for AC not only remains intact, it seems perpetually set on a goal of ultimately completing her academic pursuits.
Four AC Machining Students Achieve National Credentials for Precision Metal Working
Published November 14, 2016 By Joe WyattThe Machining Technology Program at Amarillo College is pleased to announce that four machining students have earned nationally recognized capstone credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
AC’s Nursing Program Ranked 7th in State for ADN Programs and Students Surpass National Average on Licensing Exam
Published November 10, 2016 By Joe WyattThe Texas Board of Nursing released annual data that confirms Amarillo College as having one of the state’s most successful programs for producing registered nurses (RNs).
Bruckner’s Donation Enhances Diesel Training for AC Students
Published November 10, 2016 By Joe WyattA major gift from Bruckner’s Truck Sales – a 2016 Mack MP7 engine valued at $35,000 – has given students studying diesel technology at Amarillo College a superior piece of machinery on which to hone their skills.
Student Success on the Rise thanks to AC’s 8-week Class Model
Published November 9, 2016 By Joe WyattSubstantial gains in student success are being realized thanks to the 8-week course model implemented within the past year at Amarillo College.
Gift Inspires New Name for AC’s Diesel Technology Program
Published November 8, 2016 By Joe WyattThe Amarillo College program dedicated to producing professional diesel mechanics will heighten its curriculum and adopt the name of the benefactor whose transformative gift will do the heavy lifting.
College Plans Substantial Nov. 10th Observance of Veterans Day
Published November 8, 2016 By Joe WyattVeterans of Amarillo College will be joined by the AC Community, the AC Concert Choir and the Caprock High School ROTC Color Guard for a full-fledged salute to Veterans Day.
Stress-Management Support Group is Open to All AC Students
Published November 7, 2016 By Joe WyattSharing successful strategies for dealing with stress is the purpose of a stress-management group open solely to students this semester at Amarillo College.
AC’s Online Programs Ranked among Most Affordable in Texas
Published November 4, 2016 By Joe WyattOnlineColleges.com has ranked Amarillo College among the most affordable two-year online Colleges in Texas.
Intramural Volleyball in Full Swing at AC’s Carter Fitness Center
Published November 3, 2016 By Joe WyattIn a sport like volleyball, where “kills” are a measure of success, one might expect aggression to occasionally trump sportsmanship. But not so at AC, where even teams named the Dirtbags and Sorry Not Sorry are fully focused on just having fun.
Diego Caetano Wins Prestigious International Piano Competition
Published November 2, 2016 By Joe WyattThose orchestrating London’s Grand Prize Virtuoso International Music Competition scoured the globe for a visionary, a pianist whose interpretation of Chopin’s distinctive musical language they could assuredly deem transcendent.
AC to Observe Accelerate TEXAS Week with Industry Showcase
Published November 1, 2016 By Joe WyattEach November, colleges across Texas celebrate adult-education initiatives – the kind aimed at putting people to work or into better jobs – through a variety of events collectively called Accelerate TEXAS.
AC Students Demonstrate Know-How at 4-State IT Competition
Published October 31, 2016 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students know what makes technology tick, a fact they proved over Fall Break by capturing six awards – four for first place – at the Association of Information Technology Professionals Region 3 Student Conference.
AC Wins Pacemaker: Collegiate Journalism’s Preeminent Award
Published October 28, 2016 By Joe WyattThe Matney Mass Media Program at Amarillo College is currently enjoying the view from collegiate journalism’s topmost vantage point, a prestigious perch reserved solely for winners of a National Pacemaker Award.
AC Students and Faculty Help Restore Historic Huey Helicopter
Published October 27, 2016 By Joe WyattA group of students and faculty from Amarillo College, having tirelessly contributed to the restoration of a Vietnam War-era helicopter, will be front and center on Saturday when Randall County officials assemble to formally dedicate the Huey 68-16179.
AC & Palace Coffee Join Forces to Install Campus Coffeehouse
Published October 27, 2016 By Joe WyattA freshly brewed partnership between a pair of nationally recognized innovators – Amarillo College and Palace Coffee Company – is definitely grounds for celebration.
Southern Light Gallery is Back with Japanese Internment Exhibit
Published October 25, 2016 By Joe WyattImages of Japanese Internment in 1942, authorized, then confiscated, and finally released by the U.S. government, comprise the first exhibit in the reemergence of the Southern Light Gallery on Amarillo College’s Washington Street Campus.
Reception & Sale to Commemorate Apple-themed Art Exhibition
Published October 19, 2016 By Joe WyattThe identities of the prize-winning artists will be revealed, and all the artwork will be for sale at an open-to-the-public reception to commemorate a juried art exhibition at Amarillo College themed Apple of My Eye.
Senior Nursing Major Recognized by Texas Nurse Associations
Published October 19, 2016 By Joe WyattMichelle Adkins, a senior nursing major at Amarillo College, was one of three students singled out for recognition on Monday, Oct. 17 at an event hosted by the Texas Nursing Association District 2 and the Panhandle Organization of Nurse Executives.
Acrylic Painting among Array of Options in AC’s Seniors College
Published October 18, 2016 By Joe WyattSandy Duncan was laying it on a bit thick – the paint, not the patter – for prodigiously vibrant flowers adorned her canvas this day.
Amarillo College Workforce to Mobilize Oct. 22 for Day of Caring
Published October 17, 2016 By Joe WyattEffectively engaging more than 10,000 students is a tall order that keeps Amarillo College faculty and staff on their toes daily, but the busy AC workforce still finds time to occasionally shift its focus from campuses to community.
Job & Career Fair to Feature Dozens of Employers Nov. 2 at AC
Published October 12, 2016 By Joe WyattDozens of local and area businesses, and a few from far and wide, will be represented when Amarillo College hosts the Fall 2016 All Majors Job & Career Fair on Wednesday, Nov. 2 on the Washington Street Campus.
Fall Break: A Window of Opportunity to Enroll in 8-Week Classes
Published October 11, 2016 By Joe WyattA fresh slate of 8-week classes starts on Monday, Oct. 24th, right after Amarillo College observes Fall Break, a mid-semester, week-long student holiday.
Writers’ Corner Affords Cozy Atmosphere for Student Success
Published October 7, 2016 By Joe WyattSince everyone approaches writing assignments with varying degrees of skill and confidence, Amarillo College in 2010 established the Writers’ Corner to help students become more effective writers. Happily, more students than ever are receiving one-on-one assistance at the facility, and student success is through the roof.
National Teacher of the Year Among Honorees at AC Celebration
Published October 5, 2016 By Joe WyattAmarillo College will recognize some especially inspirational educators – including the 2015 National Teacher of the Year – while placing some of its most innovative programs in the spotlight at Celebration of Education.
First Responders Physical Challenge Puts Programs on Display
Published October 3, 2016 By Joe WyattAmarillo College students pursuing careers as first responders will test their strength, stamina and speed at the First Responders Physical Challenge beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15 at the Carter Fitness Center on the Washington Street Campus.
Arbors Foursome Making the Most of Raffkind Scholarship Fund
Published September 28, 2016 By Joe WyattMyrna Raffkind was so inspired by the affability and professionalism of her caregivers at The Arbors that she and her husband set up a scholarship that annually supports up to four individuals in pursuit of health-sciences degrees at Amarillo College.
AC Awarded $5 Million to Establish New STEM-Degree Pathways
Published September 28, 2016 By Joe WyattA $4.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education has positioned Amarillo College to swiftly become a hotbed of scientific exploration, research and attainment.
Students to Meet Mentors at Helping Heroes Luncheon on Oct. 3
Published September 27, 2016 By Joe WyattTwenty-seven Palo Duro High School seniors who aspire to careers in the health sciences will receive individualized advice and support thanks to a new Amarillo College initiative designed to pair them with professional mentors.
Evan Smith of Texas Tribune to Moderate a Conversation at AC
Published September 22, 2016 By Joe WyattA pair of influential state representatives will discuss issues of regional and legislative relevance when the Texas Tribune brings its statewide conversation series – and free lunch for all attendees – to Amarillo College.
There’s No Grass Growing under the Feet of this Future Welder
Published September 21, 2016 By Joe WyattDuring his daily travels to and from Amarillo College, Ty Cessnun has no need of sunglasses. Headlights, however, are indispensable at both ends of his day – when leaving the house at 5:15 a.m., and again when returning home at 10 o’clock at night.
Author Jamie Ford to Appear at Ordway Hall Tuesday, Oct. 11th
Published September 20, 2016 By Joe WyattIf you hung on his every written word, just wait until Jamie Ford visits Amarillo College to deliver a message in person.
AC Students to Provide Free Legal Help at Clinic and Workshops
Published September 16, 2016 By Joe WyattStudents in the Legal Studies Program at Amarillo College will be getting more topical, real-life experience this fall than ever before, and the beneficiaries will be many.
Myriad College Resources Lift Disabled Student to Photo Finish
Published September 14, 2016 By Joe WyattA few short years ago, Eric Van Marter would leave home only for reasons most necessary, maybe to see a doctor or buy groceries. To avoid excessive contact with others, he braved a local Supercenter only in the wee hours of the morning.
AC’s Foremost Staff Awards Conferred at Fall General Assembly
Published September 9, 2016 By Joe WyattAC’s most-prestigious staff awards were conferred during fall General Assembly on Sept. 9 at the Amarillo Civic Center, and Kyle Arrant and Mark Rowh each received standing ovations from their enthusiastic peers.
AC First in Texas to Receive College Readiness Success Grant
Published September 8, 2016 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has been handed a set of keys and empowered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to drive an ambitious new effort to propel underprepared students more swiftly to credential completion.
Fall Enrollment Eclipses 10,000 and Should Climb even Higher
Published September 7, 2016 By Joe Wyatt
Fall enrollment at Amarillo College has eclipsed 10,000 students for the first time since 2014, and with the proliferation of 8-week classes, the number of scholars attending AC is expected to climb even higher in the weeks ahead.
World-Class Music Faculty Primed for September Performances
Published September 6, 2016 By Joe Wyatt
Two members of the Amarillo College music faculty will put their world-class talents on display in September, and connoisseurs and novices alike will have equal opportunity to attend local performances for free.
Department of Education Enlists AC for Student-Success Project
Published September 2, 2016 By Joe WyattAmarillo College has received affirmation from an authority second to none that its innovative integration of resources to support underprepared adult students is not only unique and worthwhile, but simply too promising to keep under wraps.
‘Reacting to the Past’ to Play a Role in Amarillo College’s Future
Published August 19, 2016 By Joe WyattA two-day dialogue focused on such transformative issues as women’s suffrage, labor strife, and urbanization in early 20th century America, fittingly heralds the arrival of a transformative method of instruction at Amarillo College.