STCC Student Trustee Recalls Memorable Year
Micki
Betton of Springfield ended her one-year term as the student member
of the Springfield Technical Community College Board of Trustees at
the board’s June 30 meeting. She said, “My year as the voice for the
student body and STCC is one I am very proud of and will stay with me
for life.”
She recalled special events, “starting with our Black History Month program, in tribute to three of many icons of history - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Honorable Marcus Garvey and, my hometown favorite reggae artist, Bob Marley (born Robert Nesta Marley). This event brought back fond memories of Jamaica.
“When I was asked to be a part of the Public Higher Education Network of Massachusetts (PHENOM) hearing panel in April at STCC, that was a big step for me -- more than words could explain. Education is very important to all of us, but to have a positive voice that speaks for others as well as yourself, and being heard, is a wonderful thing. You don’t have to be a teacher to be an educator.
Also, “The announcement of Liberty Mutual Insurance Company opening across the street in the STCC Technology Park -- this is news the city of Springfield needs. At this event I was honored to meet and have a conversation with our Governor Deval Patrick.”
She continued, “Graduation 2008 -- five stars! Not only did I have the first college graduate in my family, but I was blessed to be a part of the stage party as a Board member, as the voice for the students of this institution of higher education. Imagine the pride I felt.”
Betton plans to graduate from STCC in the Class of 2010. She’ll stay active in campus affairs, and following graduation, plans to seek employment in her field of study – computer software applications – continue her education, and build her own small business.
“This whole year has been very memorable for me, with a lot of proud tears of praise, to the Almighty for all of His blessings,” she said.