Dr. Scott Adamson Keynote Speaker at The American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges Conference

Chandler-Gilbert Community College Mathematics Faculty encourages problem-solving in the classroom

Dr. Scott Adamson

Dr. Scott Adamson, mathematics faculty at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, was the keynote speaker at The American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges (AMATYC) annual conference on Nov. 9-12, 2017 in San Diego. In his speech, Adamson encouraged making problem-solving central to the classroom experience.

Adamson’s presentation, “Is it 1957 or 20217?” challenged the nearly 1,500 mathematics professors in attendance to consider how mathematics is currently being taught. He argued that teaching students to solve problems by hand was necessary in 1957, but may not be as vital in 2017 due to accessible computing tools.

Adamson encouraged his fellow professors to consider the importance of helping students make sense of problems and creating mathematical models of real-world situations. He also encouraged professors to develop professional relationships with students and to support them in their efforts to become proficient problem solvers.

AMATYC is an organization devoted to providing a national forum for the improvement of mathematics instruction in the first two years of college. AMATYC provides professional development opportunities for educators through an annual conference, webinars, traveling workshops, publications, and projects.

CGCC Biology Professor Dr. Pushpa Ramakrishna Appointed Program Director of National Science Foundation

Biology professor will advance STEM in Washington, D.C.

Dr. Pushpa Ramakrishna

Chandler-Gilbert Community College Biology Professor Dr. Pushpa Ramakrishna is acting as Program Director at the National Science Foundation (NSF) in the Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE) until September 2018. She was appointed the prestigious role earlier this year, and relocated to Washington D.C. in September 2017.

DUE programs are intended to strengthen STEM education at two- and four-year colleges and universities by improving curricula, instruction, laboratories, infrastructure, assessment, diversity of students and faculty, and collaborations.

As Program Director, Dr. Ramakrishna will be working on the Advanced Technology Education program, Improving Undergraduate STEM Education program, NSF Scholarships in STEM program, and the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship program.

We wish Dr. Ramakrishna the best of luck and cannot wait to hear more about all of her exciting projects.

CGCC VP Named Man of the Year Award Among Men of Action

The Chandler Men of Action (CMOE), an African American youth empowerment organization, awarded the 2016 Coy Payne Man of the Year Award to CGCC Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. William H. Crawford III.  This award, which recognizes men who embody the CMOE mission of creating an environment of hope and opportunity for African-American youth, was given to Dr. Crawford for his commitment to educational leadership and the academic success of students in and outside of the classroom.  The presentation took place at the CMOE 4th Annual Banquet and Fundraiser last Friday, February 26 at the Chandler Community Center.

"Dr. Crawford exemplifies leadership in the educational community and beyond through his support, encouragement, and participation in activities and programs that promote educational equity which aligns with the mission and goals of both the Maricopa Community Colleges District and the Chandler Men of Action", said Pastor Victor Hardy, President of the Chandler Men of Action.

Dr. Crawford’s success in education is fueled by his own background as a proud product of the community college system.  He is passionate about student success and the mission of the community college system to respond to the needs of our communities and its residents.  One of the many ways Dr. Crawford helps to fulfill this mission is through frequently speaking to students, parents, and community leaders about the impact of the community college system on his life.
"Bill is an invaluable leader both at Chandler-Gilbert Community College and in the community. He is a consummate professional and a mentor to many at the college, ensuring that every action and activity taken at the college contributes to student success. The college is appreciative that he is being recognized with this honor,” said Dr. William Guerriero, Interim President of CGCC. 
Dr. Crawford offers a unique perspective forged through years of active involvement and a diverse set of experiences.  He is currently Chair of the City of Chandler Merit System Board; Chair of the Si Se Puede Foundation’s Board of Directors and a board member of the East Valley Partnership, East Valley NAACP, and the Chandler Men of Action.  Before transitioning to higher education, William Crawford was employed with the Phoenix Police Department for more than 23 years where he held numerous leadership positions and served with distinction. 

William Crawford holds both Doctorate and Master of Education degrees from Northern Arizona University and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Justice Studies from Arizona State University.

About Chandler-Gilbert Community College
Chandler-Gilbert Community College is one of ten Maricopa County Community Colleges, the largest community college system in the country. CGCC serves the higher education needs of over 19,000 students at four locations in the Southeast Valley of the Phoenix metropolitan area - the Pecos Campus in Chandler, the Williams Campus in Mesa, the Sun Lakes Center in Sun Lakes and at the Communiversity in Queen Creek. CGCC offers degrees and certificates in a variety of fields, university transfer, workforce development programs, and continuing education, along with nationally recognized programs in service learning, learning communities, and civic engagement. For more information, visit cgc.edu or call 480-732-7000.