In addition, Baker College of Cadillac will offer the new simulation center to the local medical community for continuing education programs.

“We also envision expansion into other fields such as mental health and law enforcement, and even to local middle and high schools,” said Cindy Kelley, MSN, RN, Baker College of Cadillac dean of health sciences. “We want our simulators and the new simulation center to be the focal point for training programs in Cadillac and surrounding communities.”

The purchase of the new simulators and construction of the simulation center was made possible, in part, by a $90,000 Major Impact Grant from the Jewell Education Fund (JEF). The annual grant is awarded for projects that will significantly improve the quality of education on a Baker College campus. With additional funds provided by Baker College of Cadillac, the new simulation center, which mirrors a hospital/emergency room, houses three simulators, video equipment and computers. Grant funds also cover a technician’s salary.

The two high-fidelity simulators that will be demonstrated during the open house were purchased from Gaumard Scientific Company, a world-class manufacturer of innovative teaching simulators for health care education. HAL and HAL Jr. are models of an adult and a 5-year-old child. Both can mimic respiratory patterns, eye movements and responses, heart sounds and even exchange of gasses, all in a simulated technology setting.

“With HAL, Baker students have the opportunity to develop high acuity skills through the use of human high-fidelity simulation in a lab setting,” said Joanna Hoenshell, EMT-P, I/C, AAS, BHSA, Baker College of Cadillac EMS education director. “Research indicates that students in medical education programs who have the opportunity to practice their advanced skills and higher level critical thinking with HAL-type simulators, perform better in the real-world environment.”

Both HAL models are wireless, computer operated, standalone and portable. The Baker simulation center also houses “Sam,” a Laerdal (SimMan) adult human simulator that functions like HAL, except that he is tethered to a computer and monitor. Video cameras are set up in the simulation center and are used for recording response to the simulation scenario, which allows the student and instructor to replay the scene for informative feedback.

“Diminishing human error and improving patient outcomes through task training and the simulation experience is our goal,” said Hoenshell. “We’re thrilled that our new simulation center is now open and available as a training tool for our health care students and community organizations.”

Craig Wilcox, who holds a paramedic certificate from Baker College of Cadillac, recently joined the Cadillac campus as simulation lab technician.

“Craig’s EMT paramedic training, work experience with the Mecosta and Benzie counties emergency medical services, and familiarity with Baker College, made him the perfect candidate for the lab technician position,” said Hoenshell.
For more information about the upcoming open house or the new simulation center and its simulators, contact Joanna Hoenshell via e-mail. For information about the health care programs at Baker College of Cadillac, contact Mike Tisdale via e-mail.

Baker College of Clinton Township is one of approximately 265 ABA-approved programs nationwide and one of 14 in Michigan. The ABA approves paralegal education programs that meet stringent guidelines in order to promote high quality paralegal education, training and educational standards. The paralegal program at Baker’s Clinton Township campus, which began in 2004, went through an extensive 5-year process that included submitting self-evaluation reports to the ABA. In addition, an on-site visit by the ABA verified that the paralegal program was in compliance with the organization’s guidelines. Although ABA-approved programs are valid for seven years, Baker College of Clinton Township must submit interim reports in order to maintain the designation.
V. Lynn Carlino, J.D., LL.M., says approval is very good news for the 209 students currently enrolled in the program.

“A degree from an ABA-approved school may make these students more competitive and desirable in the job market, as employers know they have been trained under nationally established, high-level standards,” said Carlino.
According to Kristi Wickerham, J.D., Baker College of Clinton Township also works with the legal community to find job placement for its paralegal interns and graduates.

“Working under the supervision of attorneys and performing a variety of essential tasks,” said Wickerham, “our paralegal interns and graduates are employed at law firms, courts, government agencies, corporations, non-profit organizations, financial institutions, real estate companies, insurance companies and health care organizations throughout Macomb, Oakland, St. Clair and Wayne counties.”

For more information about the paralegal program at Baker College of Clinton Township or to inquire about sponsoring a paralegal intern, please contact Kristi Wickerham at 586.790.9450 or by e-mail.

“Congratulations to all health sciences staff and faculty for this important achievement,” said Robert Van Dellen, Baker College of Cadillac president. “It is through the hard work and efforts of Cindy Kelley, dean of health sciences, Jay Huntington, nursing and CNA program director, and Aileen Haggit, CNA coordinator, that we passed the 81 criteria renewal process with zero deficiencies.”

Upon completion of the CNA course, the student is required to take the State of Michigan Certification Exam for Nurse Aides. After successfully passing the exam, the student is eligible to work in a long-term care facility, hospital, or home health care agency, and continue on the path to a professional health care career.

“The CNA course is a great entry into a health care career,” said Kelley. “The course provides the student with practical and entry level patient care knowledge. For someone with an interest in the health care field, but with no formal medical training, it’s the perfect place to begin.”

The CNA course at Baker College of Cadillac has been approved since the patient care aide certificate program began in 2003. Current approval is valid until January 18, 2012.

“For all of the nursing graduates in a brand new program to have passed the national exam is an outstanding accomplishment,” said Mary Ann Herbst, Ph.D., Baker College of Muskegon president. “Sincere congratulations to our students and kudos to nursing program director Jennifer Kaiser, faculty and staff. It was their hard work and dedication that helped our students to develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills essential to the practice of professional nursing.”
The nursing program at Baker College of Muskegon was granted initial approval by the Michigan Board of Nursing (MBON) in November 2006. Initial approval and annual renewal by MBON entitles Baker nursing graduates to sit for the RN licensure exam. After the second graduating class, the Muskegon campus will be eligible to apply for full MBON approval and additional accreditation.

Enrollment in the program is currently limited to 32 students per year, winter quarter. However, beginning fall 2010 quarter, an additional 16 new students will be accepted into the program every year.

“We are honored by the grant and look forward to partnering with Prima Civitas in its mission to bring about foundational change to the culture of Michigan’s economy and stimulate activity for job creation and retention,” said Julianne T. Princinsky, Ed.D., Baker College of Flint president. “Congratulations to Janie Stewart, Career and Corporate Services Vice President, for all her hard work in heading up this initiative and making it happen.”

The partnership between Baker College of Flint and the Prima Civitas Foundation was a result of an open and competitive bid process to train dislocated workers for existing and emerging health care positions. The program at Baker College of Flint was built upon the demonstrated success of the Flint Healthcare Employment Opportunities (FHEO) Project, in which Baker College played a major role in providing quality health care education to residents enrolled in the FHEO program. Training began in January 2010 and is expected to continue through June 30, 2011.
For more information about training opportunities at Baker College of Flint for dislocated workers, please contact Janie Stewart at 810.766.4209.

The Prima Civitas Foundation is a non-profit economic and community development collaborative that serves the State of Michigan as it reinvents its economic base in the 21st century. Created in 2006 by Michigan State University, PCF exists to create, facilitate and bridge the network that is necessary for local, regional and state growth in today’s knowledge-based economy.

According to Richard L. Duell, program director for the EMT programs at Baker’s Muskegon and Fremont campuses, the job market forecast for EMTs is “better than average.”

“If you are licensed you can typically find a position within a short period of time,” said Duell. “Most EMS agencies hire continually. There are also opportunities in areas beyond traditional ambulance service companies such as security, police, fire, industrial, hospitals and clinics. All have been known to hire EMS personnel to expand their workforce and the services they offer.”

After successfully completing the EMT basic program, graduates are eligible to apply for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians written exam, which is necessary for licensure in Michigan. Graduates also have the opportunity to continue the EMT program at Baker College of Muskegon to earn a paramedic or specialist certificate.

“We are pleased to offer the basic EMT program as we continue to seek ways to provide the skills and training necessary to help individuals succeed in today’s job market,” said James Kelly, Baker College of Fremont director.

Students enrolled in Baker’s EMT basic program will gain an understanding of the role of the emergency medical technician. The program stresses recognition of abnormal conditions through analysis of diagnostic signs and care for persons with specific illnesses or injury, at the scene and during transport to a medical facility. Students will also explore special circumstances, including responses to incidents involving hazardous materials, terrorists and the operation of the EMT vehicle.

For more information about the EMT program at the Baker College of Muskegon Fremont extension site, contact James Kelly at 231.924.8850.

Lesley Morgan, Ph.D., MBA, ARNP, has been appointed director of the online BSN nursing program, responsible for its development and oversight.

“Under the tutelage of Dr. Morgan,” said Julia A. Teahen, DBA, Baker College Online president, “the BSN program will help licensed registered nurses to develop into leaders of research, practice, education and administration within the health care environment.”

Teahen is pleased that Baker offers RNs the opportunity to continue their professional growth through an online program.

“Our new online BSN program gives nurses the flexibility to work around their busy schedules and at their own pace,” said Teahen.

With more than 30 years of nursing experience, Morgan stresses the importance of continuing education.

“In today’s fast-paced, ever-changing environment,” said Morgan, “it is imperative that professional nurses continuously strive to maintain and enhance their skills in order to positively function in healthcare settings that are responsive to individual and community needs.”

Program applicants must hold an unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the United States, District of Columbia or U.S. territory, or an unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse in Canada. Students are expected to maintain licensure throughout their academic career and pass all health science courses with a minimum B- (2.7) in order to remain in and graduate from the program.

Although the program is entirely online, there are three courses in the Baker College Online baccalaureate curriculum that involve clinical experiences. Students are required to perform clinical activities involving client or staff teaching, program changes or systems alterations.

Graduates of Baker’s Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program are eligible for up to 90 hours of credit toward the BSN degree. All applicants will receive a minimum of 45 hours of credit for their RN licensure.

Morgan adds that there are no limitations on enrollment. “As the applicants already have their RN license, there are no restrictions on class size by the state board,” said Morgan. “We can add course sections to meet the demand.”

For more information about Baker’s online BSN program, contact the admissions department at 800.469.3165, or via e-mail.

During the recent Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) 2009 Business Awards ceremony, Baker College of Flint was the recipient of one of the top honors: the Robert P. Gerholz Business of the Year Award.

“This is a well-deserved award,” said Tim Herman, Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce CEO. “Baker College of Flint has taken a strong leadership position in the community, continually expanding their vision and mission with a focus on developing programs to meet job needs in the marketplace.”

Nominations for the 2009 Business Awards were selected from GRCC members, and a panel of judges from the Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce chose the winners. Fifty companies were nominated to receive one of 10 awards.

“I was thrilled to accept the award on behalf of Baker College,” said Julianne T. Princinsky, Ed.D., Baker College of Flint president. “It is a wonderful recognition by members of our community and a testament to the wisdom and vision of Eldon Baker and to all our leaders who have succeeded him since Baker Business University was founded nearly 100 years ago.”

The GRCC plaque received by Baker College is inscribed as follows: “Established as a small business university in 1911, Baker College is now the largest private college in Michigan. While education is their business, Baker College is a community leader and a can-do institution that utilizes their entrepreneurial spirit to grow innovative educational programs, create jobs and improve the quality of life in Genesee County. For all Baker College has done for our community, we proudly present you with the Robert P. Gerholz Award.”

Robert P. Gerholz was a prominent Flint community leader and a nationally recognized business entrepreneur.

“These positive results are direct evidence of the hard work and perseverance of our students, as well as the dedication of our faculty and staff in providing the skills and training necessary to succeed,” said Robert Van Dellen, Ph.D., Baker College of Cadillac president. “Their excellent work has led to the ultimate measure of success – a rewarding career in an exciting field.”

The pass rate of Baker’s surgical technology graduates measures well above the national average. In 2008, the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting, which administers the exam, reported an overall national pass rate of 65 percent for the CST examination.

“I am so proud of our graduates for all their untiring efforts throughout a challenging curriculum,” said Cindy Kelley, Baker College of Cadillac dean of health sciences. “In addition, congratulations and kudos to Cyndy Shupe, our surgical technology program director. She is most responsible for the success of our program and for ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared for their important job in the operating room.”

Surgical technologists, sometimes referred to as “scrubs,” are an integral part of surgical operations. Working under the supervision of a surgeon, they ensure the operating room is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.

Although current state and national laws do not require surgical technologists to take the CST exam, there is a pending bill in the Michigan legislature that will ensure that surgical technologists practicing in Michigan hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers are appropriately educated and certified.

Bill number 4834, the Michigan Surgical Technologist Credentialing Act, would require that new hires working in the “scrub position” successfully complete an accredited education program for surgical technologists and hold and maintain national certification. In addition, individuals employed by a hospital or surgical outpatient facility would be required to complete 15 hours of continuing education every year to remain qualified for and retain employment, contract or clinical privileges.

“This is an important patient safety issue,” said Cyndy Shupe, CST/CFA, Baker College of Cadillac director of surgical technology. “The Cadillac campus has been very pro-active. Our students are trained in the theory and application of sterile and aseptic techniques. We combine the knowledge of human anatomy, pathophysiology, surgical procedures and implementation tools to facilitate a physician’s performance of surgery. Employers who hire our surgical technology graduates know they are employing highly trained individuals from an accredited program. We also require that every student take the certification exam before graduation.”

Shupe adds that failing the exam does not prevent a student from graduating. “However, that might be implemented down the road as the regulations become tighter for the surgical technology practice,” said Shupe.

“We appreciate the incredible amount of hard work and dedication that went into this effort,” said Jeffrey M. Love, Baker College of Auburn Hills president. “Congratulations to the entire program staff and faculty, with special thanks to respiratory care department chair Kathy Miller. It was through her perseverance and adherence to continuous quality improvement that we successfully completed the accreditation process.”

The respiratory care program at Baker College of Auburn Hills prepares graduates for a highly professional and dynamic career as competent respiratory care practitioners. Also known as respiratory care therapists, they work with other health care professionals to evaluate, treat and manage patients with respiratory illnesses and other cardiopulmonary disorders.

Respiratory care practitioners may find employment in hospitals, home care companies, physician’s offices, extended care facilities, outpatient centers, respiratory care equipment sales, or as educators in hospitals, colleges and universities. Therapists may choose to specialize in neonatology or pediatrics, sleep diagnostics, pulmonary function testing, rehabilitation, or critical and emergent care.

All of the 2008 and 2009 graduates from the Baker College of Auburn Hills respiratory care associate degree program are currently employed. In addition, 100 percent of the 2008 graduates have passed the credentialing examination issued by The National Board for Respiratory Care. To date, not all of the 2009 graduates have taken the exam.

“Certification by NCBTMB demonstrates our curriculum meets national standards of excellence,” said Becky Stimak, Baker College of Cadillac clinical coordinator, therapy massage. “Our graduates can enter this industry confident that they are ready to begin a successful career in massage therapy or bodywork.”

The Baker College of Cadillac therapeutic massage program is certified through October 2011.

“We are proud our curriculum stood up to a rigorous national standard and appreciate the hard work and dedication of our instructors in securing this certification,” said Cindy Kelley, Baker College of Cadillac dean of health sciences. “Congratulations to Becky Stimak, who spearheaded and completed the certification process. She is the driving force behind our therapeutic massage program.”

For more information about the Baker College of Cadillac therapeutic massage certificate degree program, contact Becky Stimak via e-mail or call the admissions office at 231.876.3100.

“These positive results are a testimonial to the hard work and perseverance of our students, as well as the dedication of our faculty and staff in providing the skills and training necessary to succeed in the veterinary technology field,” said Julianne T. Princinsky, Ed.D., Baker College of Flint president.

In Michigan, a graduate of an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) accredited program must successfully pass a state and national board examination to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT).

Career opportunities for a veterinary technician include the following areas: small and large animal hospitals, research, education, pharmaceuticals, zoos and the military.

The veterinary technology program at Baker College of Flint has been accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) since 2002.

Yvonne Langley, director of career services at Baker College of Allen Park, has been re-elected to the board of the Michigan Association of Colleges and Employers (MiACE).

“We are very proud of Yvonne’s appointment and her continued efforts to build strong relationships between employers and college career services staff,” said Aaron J. Maike, Baker College of Allen Park president.

MiACE provides professional development, advice and services to career services professionals at Michigan colleges and universities. Through educational programs, problem-solving activities and networking opportunities, MiACE’s mission is to advance the career and employment services profession in Michigan.

As a MiACE board member, Langley will coordinate and host educational programs for employers and college career services staff in southeast Michigan.

“Our upcoming program, ‘The Value of Customer Service in Challenging Economic Times,’ features Ann Lofgren of Zingermans,” said Langley. “She provides ‘Zing Train’ customer service training to a variety of corporations.”

The event is Thursday, November 19, from 1:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. For more information about MiACE or the upcoming program, contact Yvonne Langley at 313.425.3716, or via e-mail.

“Mark brings a wealth of professional and executive health care experience to our board,” said Julianne T. Princinsky, Ed.D., Baker College of Flint president. “We are delighted that he has accepted the position as a regent for our campus.”

Taylor, a Brighton resident, earned a bachelor’s degree in economics and business administration from Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, Mich., and a master’s degree in health services administration from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. He holds Fellow status in the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE). Reserved for health care executives who have made significant contributions to the field, FACHE status is considered the pinnacle of achievement in health care management. Taylor is also an examiner for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Program. Congress established the award program in 1987 to recognize U.S. organizations for their achievements in quality and performance and to raise awareness about the importance of quality and performance excellence as a competitive edge.

“Service support in the information technology and information systems fields has been cited as one of the areas that continues to grow despite the current slack in the U.S. economy,” said Connie Harrison, Ph.D., Baker College of Port Huron president. “We are pleased to offer this program on our campus.”

The ITSS program at Baker College of Port Huron focuses on a growing segment of the information technology (IT) market. It provides service and support for software applications configuration, training of users, maintenance of information, and communication processes between a company’s back-end network administrators and middle-to-front line employees and customers.

ITSS program students will learn the content and use of common business software applications and information processes, including word processing, spreadsheet, database operating systems and network connectivity. They will also learn how to install, configure, train other users, troubleshoot and support the software applications.

For graduates of the Baker College of Port Huron information technology support specialist program, employment opportunities include a wide range of occupations within an information systems/information technology (IS/IT) department and the users it serves.

For more information about the new ITSS program at Baker’s Port Huron campus, contact Jean S. Hall, dean of technology, via e-mail or at 810.989.2111, or call the admissions office at 810.985.7000.