O c t o b e r 1 1 - 1 2 , 2 0 1 2 • S o u t h C e n t r a l Co l l e g e
C O N F E R E N C E
Global Connections
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Thursday, October 11
11:00 - 11:50
Lunch (11:00 - 2:00)Heritage Hall
Native American Cuisine (buffet and beverage) $8.00
8:00 - 8:45
Sign-in at the Welcome Table
**Vendor booths open throughout the day in the conference center area.
8:30
Conference Opening: Dr. Brian ForsConference Center
8:45 - 9:50
1. Selling Software in a Global EnvironmentE102
This session will look at what it takes to sell computer software globally. It will focus on learning how
to identify obstacles that you may never think of, and how to act professionally in the worst situations!
Kevin Koch has been selling computer software for over 20 years. His focus has been on selling
to Fortune 500 accounts that have a global presence. He understands complex sales cycles within
a company that expands across the world. He has built many strong relationships within these
organizations that continue to build the trust of selling software. He currently manages a team of ten
sales representatives across the U.S. and Europe.
2. “ Not Everyone is a Vikings Fan”E121
Keynote: Dave LarsenConference Center
American Indians and the Global Community
Join Dave Larsen as he talks about American Indians, one of the
unknown people in the global community. A gifted speaker, Mr.
Larsen will speak on several issues affecting American Indians and
their place within the larger global community.
A Dakotah Historian and scholar, Dave was the chair of the first
American Indian Advisory Council to the MN Historical Society.
He served three terms as Chairman of the Lower Sioux Tribal Council, and has taught at the U of M
and MSU, teaching American Indian History and cultural studies.
10:00 - 10:50
1. Walking in Two Worlds/Ready to LearnE102
This presentation will discuss the YWCA’s Walking in Two Worlds program and the new
Ready to Learn program that are located in Mankato, MN. There will be conversations
on the immigrant and refugee experience, along with an interactive immigrant experience
demonstration.
Erin Meyer graduated from MSU, Mankato in 2012 with a B.S. in Gender and Womens
Studies, Communication Studies and a Nonprofit Leadership Certificate. Erin completed one
year of AmeriCorps VISTA at the YWCA in Mankato. She is now a Program and Grants
Assistant at the YWCA of Mankato.
2. The Role of Interpreters in the Court SystemE103
This presentation will discuss different situations in which a person is, or is not, entitled to
have an interpreter assist them in court. There will also be a discussion as to the role and use of
an interpreter during court proceedings.
Jennifer Thon received her Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice, with an emphasis in psychology
and sociology and a minor in Sociology, in 2005 from Minnesota State University, Moorhead.
She then received her Juris Doctor in 2008 from the University of North Dakota School of
Law. Jennifer became an associate at Jones and Magnus, Mankato, in 2011. Prior to joining
Jones and Magnus, Jennifer worked as a judicial law clerk for three years. She also gained
valuable experience through a legal clerkship with the Tribal Judicial Institute at the University
of North Dakota, School of Law.
No one will deny the popularity and appeal of the sports culture. However, one unfortunate side
effect of sports fandom in the United States is a lack of knowledge of other sporting cultures outside
a typical fan’s immediate frame of reference or comfort level. This presentation will introduce to the
audience a variety of rituals, traditions, trivia and awareness of unique sports played outside our
country. A discussion of thought- provoking issues relating to the global impact of sports will also
take place during this presentation.
Brian Klosa is a communication instructor at South Central College. Additionally, he also directs the
prestigious and highly successful college speech team. Klosa is a self-admitted sports nut and enjoys
watching as much soccer as humanly possible on Fox Soccer Channel. His favorite sports memory is
watching the “Miracle on Ice” hockey game against the Soviet Union as a seven year old boy.
3. To Ethiopia & Back: The Ethics of International AdoptionE123
Many families choose to grow by adopting a child from a foreign country and the journey through
international adoption is often difficult to navigate. During our time together, we will explore issues
that arise during the process of international adoption. From choosing an agency and a country to
working through the immigration process, we will discuss the challenges, frustrations and joys of
international adoption.
The Rev. Dr. Kristen Venne and her husband have traveled to Ethiopia three times to grow their family
through adoption. They have five rambunctious children to keep them young and teach them the joys
of parenting. Kristen has a BA from Luther College, a Masters of Divinity from Luther Seminary and
a PhD in Children, Youth and Family Ministry from Luther Seminary. Currently she is a Pastor at
Messiah Lutheran Church down the street. And yes, she has a thing for institutions named Luther.
12:00 - 12:50
Lunch (11:00 - 2:00)Heritage Hall
Native American Cuisine (buffet and beverage) $8.00
1. A Minnesota Soybean goes to ChinaE121
Myron has been a Farm Business Management instructor at SCC for seven years and State Director
of the MN Soybean Growers Association for two years.
Dada Maheshvarananda is author of After Capitalism, a call for a transformed humancentered economic system based in economic democracy. Such a system would focus on
humane democratically managed work environments, community control over investment,
ecological sustainability, and spiritual rather than material values.
2. Disability does not Mean DisabledE104
One in seven Americans has a disability. The issues with being “labeled” with a disability are many.
This presentation will touch upon some of the misconceptions and outright myths regarding persons
with disabilities. We’ll also discuss differing cultural views of persons with disabilities.
Dada is a yogic monk and also the founder and director of the Prout Research Institute in
Caracas, Venezuela. The institute conducts research on economic democracy and has consulted
on the development of worker-managed enterprises in Venezuela.
Wayne Whitmore did his undergraduate work at the University of Wisconsin-Superior, majoring in
psychology and minoring in philosophy. His graduate work was completed at the UW-Madison in
rehabilitation psychology.
5. T
urkey at the Turning Point:
The Changing Face of IslamE121
Judge Greg Anderson is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, CLA 1984. After graduation,
Anderson attended the University of Minnesota Law School in 1987. He worked as a law clerk from
1987-1989; a prosecutor from 1989-1994; a public defender from 1994-2008; and became a District
Court Judge in 2008 when he was appointed by Governor Pawlenty and sworn in August 1, 2008. He
was then re-elected in November of 2010. Judge Anderson presently serves on the State Psychological
Services Committee and the District Labor Management Committee. Judge Anderson will be assisted
in his presentation by Jennifer Thon, a local attorney who has worked with tribal courts in North
Dakota.
4. Genocide in the West?E102
This session will discuss the treatment of Native Peoples in the “American West” of the late 19th
Century. The Dakota War marked the beginning of ongoing conflict west of the Mississippi in North
America. This conflict was punctuated with war, removal, reservation policies, and ultimately, the
policy of allotment. Using the Dakota War as our starting point, we’ll explore some of the significant
events in the following period with an eye on the implications of the long, difficult conflict between
Native Peoples and the United States.
Jay Wendelberger is a history instructor at South Central College. He received his MA from the
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee where his thesis focused on the post World War II civil rights
movement in America. He continued that study as a Ph.D candidate at the University of Minnesota.
2:00 - 2:50
Keynote: Michael LyonsConference Center
Michael Lyons has used his talents as a cartoonist and a musician
to teach Ojibwe language, culture and history to young people for
many years. During his classroom visits, Michael also discusses
his grandparents’ experiences with the Flandreau Indian Boarding
School and shares his grandfather’s escape attempts through a song
he wrote called “Home.” Lyons will also share what he knows about
how to connect with children, especially Native American students,
in meaningful ways.
Rae grew up in Decorah, Iowa: learned, worked, lived, traveled many places and loves to share. She
lives in Garden City with one man, one daughter, two cats, and many gardens.
Are there better ways to economically develop the world? In an on-going global economic crisis
the question is raised often. Dada Maheshvarananda will discuss economic democracy as an
alternative approach. The workshop will include fun cooperative games.
Anne Ganey teaches full time in the Community Health Work (CHW) Program at South
Central College. She was one of a team of people who developed the CHW Curriculum and
is currently developing and teaching online classes. She previously directed several programs
and organizations focused on community health and development, youth development and
nonprofit leadership. She has presented on her work at national meetings for PEW Partnership
for Civic Change, the American Public Health Association, Minnesota Department of
Health Conferences, the National Center for Substance Abuse Prevention and the National
Association of Development Organizations.
3. The Indian Child Welfare ActE121
This presentation will cover the history of the Indian Child Welfare Act, why it is necessary, what
it means for the children and parents involved in the child protection cases, and the practical
applications, benefits, and shortcomings of the Indian Child Welfare Act.
Rae Busch was fortunate enough to grow up in a home where respect for other cultures was not just
expected, but intentionally fostered. She was also fortunate enough to live in other countries where she
was the “other.” Rae is happy to have the opportunity to share some experiences from her upbringing
and travels, and to encourage co-existence!
Join Myron Oftedahl as he discusses his recent trip to China with the MN Soybean Growers
Association.
This presentation tells the story of a group of healers and musicians of Irish descent who
returned to Ireland to work with music, intention, and the land to heal the effects of ancient
tragedies. Participants will learn about the science of healing through the energy field and the
land, Irish history, culture and the role of Irish music, and stories of the trip and the work of
the group.
Rochelle Ament is the proud mommy of a 2 ½ year old little boy, works as an academic advisor at
South Central College and has a passion for travel. Since the discovery of her love for travel in 2006,
she’s had the opportunity to visit Boston, New York City, San Francisco, Honolulu, Denver, Chicago,
London, Paris, Rome, Venice, Florence, Pompeii, Seattle, Washington D.C. and of course, Rio de
Janeiro.
4. Raised to RespectE103
3. Workshop: Economic Democracy
in Global DevelopmentE119
4. Returning to Ireland: Working with the Land for
Healing and Reconciliation of Ancient TragediesE112
2. Visit Rio!E110
Come learn about Rochelle Ament’s recent trip to Rio de Janiero, Brazil. Join Rochelle as you
experience the highlights of Rio; a nerve-wracking gondola ride to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain,
the welcoming arms of Cristo Redentor from atop Corcovado and the powdery sand of Copacabana
beach from a lounge chair with a caipirinha in hand.
3. Bridges for Understanding Cultural DifferencesE110
This presentation will focus on the cultural norms of Somalia and the geographical location. It will
discuss several topics related to Somali culture such as marriage, family values, and the causes of
Somali immigration.
Fanah Adam was born and grew up in Somalia. He has been in the education field since 1974. He
holds a B.A. degree, 1984, from the College of Education, Somalia (Languages) a B.S degree, 2006,
from Minnesota State University, Mankato (Ethnic studies and Geography); a M.S degree (2009)
Minnesota State University, Mankato (Educational Leadership and Geography Information Science
(GIS)
4. The Dakota War: A Historical PerspectiveE112
In August 1862, after years of broken treaties and continued pressure on their lands, the Dakota
in southern Minnesota declared war on the European population in the area, attacking farmers
and communities throughout the region. After several engagements, the Dakota surrendered
in September and eventually 38 were executed in Mankato, in what is still today the largest mass
execution in American history. Dr. Brian D. Fors will discuss what led to these events and the impact
of the war on Minnesota history.
When Americans think of Islam, the extreme versions of the religion practiced in Saudi
Arabia, Iran, and Afghanistan (under the Taliban) usually come to mind. What many fail to
realize is the great variety of Muslim beliefs and practices throughout the world. A recent tour
that Dr. Kurt Dershem took of Turkey highlighted this diversity. Founded by Kamal Ataturk
in 1923, the Turkish Republic was established as a stridently secular state. Headscarves and the
fez were banned, the Arabic alphabet was abandoned in favor of Western writing, women were
granted equal rights, etc. In recent years, however, the tide has turned in the opposite direction
because of the growing power of an Islamic political party. Especially in rural and Eastern
parts of the country, Turks are becoming increasingly religious and intolerant. In the West and
major urban areas, in contrast, the creep toward theocracy is seen as a threat and Ataturk is
honored as a kind of secular saint. Given the importance of Turkey as an American ally and its
position as a bridge between Europe and the Middle East, the resolution of this conflict will
have ramifications far beyond the country’s borders.
Dean of Academic Affairs for Liberal Arts and Professional Careers; and history instructor for eleven
years; Dr. Fors holds a Ph.D in American History from the University of Iowa.
Dr. Dershem has an M.A. in Philosophy and a Ph.D. in American Culture Studies from
Bowling Green State University. He has taught at SCC for eight years, and is also the cocoordinator of the SCC Seminars Abroad.
Cathy Sandmann RN, MSN, one of South Central’s own, has been a nurse for almost 30 years,
working in Minnesota, Iowa, California and New York.
1:00 - 1:50
Lunch (11:00 - 2:00)Heritage Hall
Native American Cuisine (buffet and beverage) $8.00
1. Stranger in a Strange Land and
this Cold isn’t Getting BetterE119
This presentation will look at how culture impacts client needs in a health care setting. The session will
also look at ECHO and other services available to address culturally competent care in Minnesota.
Michael is a direct descendant of one of the original Mdewaketon Dakotas of the 1886 conflict with
the U.S., a Leech Lake Ojibwe, an artist, a cat-lover, and the lead singer for the band “ishii.” Visitors to
Mr. Lyons’ talks often receive coloring books and other cartoon related items.
3:00-4:15
Dancing with Kevin LockeHeritage Hall
Come learn about Native music and dance!
4:30-6:00
Film Viewing: Dakota 38A166
In the spring of 2005, Jim Miller, a Native spiritual leader and Vietnam veteran, found himself in a
dream riding on horseback across the great plains of South Dakota. Just before he awoke, he arrived at
a riverbank in Minnesota and saw 38 of his Dakota ancestors hanged. At the time, Jim knew nothing
of the largest mass execution in United States history, ordered by Abraham Lincoln on December
26, 1862. “When you have dreams, you know when they come from the creator... As any recovered
alcoholic, I made believe that I didn’t get it. I tried to put it out of my mind, yet it’s one of those dreams
that bothers you night and day.”
Now, four years later, embracing the message of the dream, Jim and a group of riders retrace the 330mile route of his dream on horseback from Lower Brule, South Dakota to Mankato, Minnesota to
arrive at the hanging site on the anniversary of the execution. “We can’t blame the wasichus anymore.
We’re doing it to ourselves. We’re selling drugs. We’re killing our own people. That’s what this ride is
about, is healing.” This is the story of their journey- the blizzards they endure, the Native and NonNative communities that house and feed them along the way, and the dark history they are beginning
to wipe away.
7:30 - 9:00
Kevin Locke and the
Native Dance EnsembleConference Center
The Kevin Locke Native Dance Ensemble performance is an
opportunity for audiences to explore aspects of Native American
culture they won’t find in history books.
More than simply an excellent cultural representation of traditional
dance, audiences will experience compelling dance theater at its
most moving. Visually dynamic and musically powerful, this year’s
program, “The Drum is the Thunder, the Flute is the Wind” is a
sensational journey in Native American symbolism and aesthetics.
Adapted from the traditional dance to welcome the ‘Return of the
Thunders,’ the performance embraces the Native American arts
through six diverse dances, storytelling and a unique presentation
of musical skill.
There is no other show like it. Representing the Plains nations
of Lakota, Anishinabe, and Comanche, the Southeastern tribe
Choctaw, and the Woodlands Nations of Ojibwe and Oneida, this
one-of-a-kind ensemble of American Indian champions and award
winners offers a rich variety of American Indian traditions and aesthetics in dance, instrumentals,
song, storytelling, sign language and audience interaction.
The Kevin Locke Native Dance Ensemble has been performing for the past five years. Recent
appearances at the opening of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, a
follow-up performance at NMAI in New York City, the World Culture Open at the Lincoln Center
(sponsored in part by the United Nations), and a residency at the University of Arizona have all been
met with high acclaim.
Friday, October 12
8:00 - 8:45
Sign-in at the Welcome Table
**Vendor booths open throughout the day in the conference center area.
8:45 - 9:50
Keynote: Dr. Peter MeyersConference Center
The central component of understanding the “Dakota way” are the
words Mitakuye Oyasin- We are all related. Not only does it define
who we are, but how we relate to all things, to all directions, to all
forms of life.
Dr. Meyers has family ties to the Lower Sioux Reservation in Morton,
Minnesota. Spirituality has been the most important aspect of his life.
Upon completing his undergraduate-degree from the University of
Minnesota, he moved on to receive a Masters of Divinity from Luther
Northwestern Theological Seminary, with ordination in 1992. In the
same year, he equally received the honor of beginning the “Medicine-Road” whereby he was approved
to become a Pipe Carrier as a vehicle for serving the people. Since that time he has participated in
multiple vision quests and Sun dances, as well as leading many healing ceremonies. Around 2000, he
was presented with a Buffalo Skull and Medicine Bundle. He continues to assist others in a variety
of capacities, offering sweat lodges on a weekly basis. Dr. Meyers has lectured not only in the United
States, but also internationally; offering greater understanding about the Dakota tradition, and how
we truly are All Related.
Dr. Pete Meyers is recognized and licensed in The State of Minnesota-Board of Psychology at
the doctorial level in the following areas of expertise: General Psychology, Neuro-Psychology,
Supervision/Training and Forensic Psychology. His C.V. consists not only of advanced coursework,
but also of intensive supervision and professional experience related to “Felony-Based Populations”
beginning with a residency program completed in 1997 at The Federal Medical Center, Rochester,
Minnesota, through the U.S. Department of Justice in conjunction with training at the Mayo
Clinic. Upon completion, Dr. Meyers went on to conduct research (through The National Institute
of Health), teach, train practicum students, and continue to personally offer services to a diverse
felony population.
From 1998 until January 2005, Dr. Meyers was employed by the Minnesota Correctional Facility
(MCF) St. Cloud working with a variety of incarcerated individuals. Dr. Meyers began private
practice in forensic psychology under “Red Tail Hawk Services” in January of 2003. To date, he has
served multiple counties in the State of Minnesota and presently is First Examiner for the Ramsey
County Court.
10:00 - 10:50
1. Canoeing Deep in Quetico Provincial Park, CanadaE121
Bo and Lynda Ernst canoed in Quetico Provincial Park (which is adjacent to the Boundary Waters
Canoe Area in Minnesota) for nine days in June 2012. Join them as they portage their way into the
back country of the Canadian wilderness on a fishing and canoeing odyssey. They will share the
adventure of the Canadian wilderness through pictures and discuss the gear needed to complete the
expedition.
Lynda Ernst has taught Legal Administrative Assistants at South Central College for 28 years, and Bo
Ernst is an energy auditor who is an avid outdoorsman.
2. The Dakota War: A Historical PerspectiveE106
In August 1862, after years of broken treaties and continued pressure on their lands, the Dakota
in southern Minnesota declared war on the European population in the area, attacking farmers
and communities throughout the region. After several engagements, the Dakota surrendered
in September and eventually 38 were executed in Mankato, in what is still today the largest mass
execution in American history. Dr. Brian D. Fors will discuss what led to these events and the impact
of the war on Minnesota history.
SCC Dean of Academic Affairs for Liberal Arts and Professional Careers; and a history instructor for
eleven years; Dr. Fors holds a Ph.D in American History from the University of Iowa.
3. Walking in Two Worlds/Ready to LearnE108
This presentation will discuss the YWCA’s Walking in Two Worlds program and the new Ready to
Learn program that are located in Mankato, MN. There will be conversations on the immigrant and
refugee experience along with an interactive immigrant experience demonstration.
Erin Meyer graduated from MSU, Mankato in 2012 with a B.S. in Gender and Womens Studies,
Communication Studies and a Nonprofit Leadership Certificate. Erin completed one year of
AmeriCorps VISTA at the YWCA in Mankato. She is now a Program and Grants Assistant at the
YWCA of Mankato.
4. Cambodia Service LearningE110
Rochester Community and Technical College has taken a service learning trip to Cambodia for the
last seven years. The trip was begun by Kim Sin, a young immigrant refugee and RCTC graduate, in
response to his return trip to Cambodia. Trip participants experience Khmer Rouge museums, the
Killing Fields, monasteries, slums, ancient ruins in Siem Reap, Rabbit Island in the Gulf of Thailand,
and village schools. Students fundraise to provide wells and toilets for villages and schools. Join Pam
Becker as she talks more about this moving experience.
Pam Becker is a College Readiness Reading and English for Academic Purposes Instructor at South
Central College. She recently participated in the Cambodia Service Learning experience.
5. “ Hey Kenny! I think South Park, Family Guy,
American Dad, and The Simpsons can teach us
something about the global community.”E119
Prime time animation shows are extremely popular. No one can deny the appeal these shows have
for their fans. These cartoon shows typically tackle many issues and controversial topics using a wide
range of satirical and pop culture humor. What is not often considered is how these shows portray
members of other races or cultures. All of the main characters of these shows are white, middle or
working class Americans, and the interaction with different ethnicities is a reoccurring theme. This
presentation will focus on the different characters and storylines presented in these shows to help us
understand how cartoons can broaden our global horizons.
Brian Klosa is a communication instructor at South Central College. Additionally, he also directs
the prestigious and highly successful college speech team. When not teaching or coaching, Brian can
be found watching way too much television. He has always enjoyed cartoons, even as a little kid on
Saturday mornings. Klosa firmly believes shows like Family Guy, The Simpsons, and South Park are
worthy of critical attention and suggests these shows are often a subtle form of discrimination against
the working class, or just good for a silly laugh!
11:00 - 11:50
Lunch (11:00 - 2:00)Heritage Hall
Tanzanian cuisine (buffet and beverage) $8.00
1. Simply Good Eating in MinnesotaE104
Simply Good Eating is a nutrition education program through the University of Minnesota Extension,
funded through the USDA Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP provides
nutrition assistance to people with low incomes. We work with individuals and families that are
SNAP eligible and teach lessons on topics such as menu planning, grocery shopping, cooking skills,
easy and tasty meals, keeping food safe and fun ways to put more activity into your day. Learn more
about Simply Good Eating, the participants we serve, and about saving money at the grocery store.
Kelly Kunkel has worked for the University of Minnesota Extension as an Extension Educator in
Health and Nutrition for the past eighteen years, and supervises the Simply Good Eating program
for ten counties in South Central Minnesota. She holds a BS in Food and Nutrition and a MS in
Community Health Science. She is also a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). Her interest
areas include child nutrition and health, and worksite wellness.
2. To Ethiopia and Back:
The Ethics of International AdoptionE106
Many families choose to grow by adopting a child from a foreign country and the journey through
international adoption is often difficult to navigate. During our time together, we will explore issues
that arise during the process of international adoption. From choosing an agency and a country, to
working through the immigration process, we will discuss the challenges, frustrations and joys of
international adoption.
The Rev. Dr. Kristen Venne and her husband have traveled to Ethiopia three times to grow their
family through adoption. They have five rambunctious children to keep them young and teach them
the joys of parenting. Kristen has a BA from Luther College, an MDiv from Luther Seminary and
a PhD in Children, Youth and Family Ministry from Luther Seminary. Currently she is a Pastor at
Messiah Lutheran Church down the street. And yes, she has a thing for institutions named Luther.
3. Global Connections Expedition
to Turkey and GreeceE110
Last May, SCC instructors Kirstin Cronn-Mills and Kurt Dershem accompanied a small group of
SCC students on an educational tour of Turkey and Greece. The travelers will recount their experience
and share their favorite pictures. Highlights of the trip include the cosmopolitan city of Istanbul, the
site of mythic Troy, the Roman ruins of Ephesus, the idyllic Greek island Santorini, and the ancient
acropolis of Athens. Come share the adventure!
Dr. Dershem has an M.A. in Philosophy and a Ph.D. in American Culture Studies from Bowling
Green State University. He has taught at SCC for eight years, and is also the co-coordinator of the
SCC Seminars Abroad.
Becky Davis teaches English and Humanities at South Central College and has made four overseas
trips with students in prior years. She is the author of two young adult novels and ten picture books
for children.
Dr. Kirstin Cronn-Mills has degrees from the University of Nebraska and Iowa State University, and
has taught at SCC since 1999. She teaches literature, writing, and critical thinking classes, and has
traveled to Ireland, England, Turkey, and Greece.
Scott Fee is an associate professor and former chair of Construction Management at MSU. He has
been traveling to South Africa regularly since 2006, and was recently appointed a distance learning
adjunct professor at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.
4. Hiking near Lake Louise in Banff
National Park, CanadaE108
4. Art as a Cultural Value with an Emphasis
on the Asanthi Culture of Ghana.E121
Bo and Lynda Ernst hiked for a week in the Lake Louise area of Banff/Yoho/Jasper National Parks in
Canada in August 2012. They will share a picture presentation of their 5- to 20-mile hikes on various
trails as they camp and hike their way through parks. Come and enjoy the beautiful, stratified rock
formations of the Canadian Rockies.
Barneih Opoku Manu will discuss the cultural value of art. He will focus on the Asanthi culture of
Ghana. He will also discuss conceptual art as a problem solving tool.
Lynda Ernst has taught Legal Administrative Assistants at South Central College for 28 years, and Bo
Ernst is an energy auditor who is an avid outdoorsman.
5. Community Health Workers:
Bringing an Effective, International Health
and Social Service Model to Minnesota.E112
This presentation describes the CHW Model of Health Care Delivery and its growth and potential in
the U.S. and Minnesota. Participants will learn about:
• An exciting, newly available profession for health care workers in Minnesota and the U.S.
• Roots of the CHW profession in international health care and specific populations in the U.S.
• The interdisciplinary aspects of the profession.
• Why and how this model is important to health care reform in the U.S.
• The CHW program at work in Minnesota and at SCC.
Anne Ganey teaches full time in the Community Health Work (CHW) Program at South Central
College. She was one of a team of people who developed the CHW Curriculum and is currently
developing and teaching online classes. She previously directed several programs and organizations
focused on community health and development, youth development and nonprofit leadership. She
has presented on her work at national meetings for PEW Partnership for Civic Change, the American
Public Health Association, Minnesota Department of Health Conferences, the National Center for
Substance Abuse Prevention and the National Association of Development Organizations.
She says, “I came here from the Chicago area on my way to somewhere else and never left. I love nature,
the outdoors, and playing as well as reading, writing, socializing and heading up to the Twin Cities
or north woods. I continue to study alternative healing and spiritual and shamanic practices and their
relationship to health. I like the combination of science and spirit. I am enjoying being part of the
evolution of the community and alternative health fields.”
12:00 - 12:50
Lunch (11:00 - 2:00)Heritage Hall
Tanzanian cuisine (buffet and beverage) $8.00
1. An African Photo SafariE121
Since he retired, Dick Young has traveled to Tanzania, Africa on four different occasions. On all four
trips, he participated in photo safaris where he took 2,000-3,000 photos of African wildlife including
shots of lions, hippos and zebras. He will share 50 of his favorite African wildlife photos in this
presentation. Also available at the presentation is a DVD capturing in full effect Young being chased
by four angry, wild elephants.
Dick Young is a retired educator/businessman. He lived and worked most of his adult life in the
Cambridge, MN area. He served as the Director of the Oakland Vocational Center and as President
of Advertisers Distribution Services/Direct Market Media. He presently lives with his wife Zarida
in Roseville, MN. His daughter is Dr. Amy Magnus, Global Connections Conference Coordinator.
2. Know Your Roots!
Understanding Your Ancestry May Help
You Better Serve Your CommunityE103
Join visiting professor, Matthias Wittig, an instructor at Carl-Severing College in Bielefeld, Germany
to learn about life in Germany as well as German history and his family connection to the United
States. Come hear about life in Germany and be ready to ask questions!
Matthias has been an instructor of Ethics, Humanities, Theology, Philosophy, and English at the CarlSevering Berufskolleg (SCC’s partner college) located in Bielefeld, Germany, since 1999. He has also
been the Senior Pastor of an Evangelische Kirche von Westfalen (the Protestant Church of Westfalia)
near Munster and has worked as a business lawyer in the Frankfurt area for a number of years.
Matthias has received degrees from Philipps University Marburg in Hassia, Germany, Canterbury
Christ Church College in Canterbury, Great Britain, and Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.
3. Invader, Tourist, or Guest:
Writing About Cultures Other than Your OwnE112
Who gets to write about whom? Can a writer from a majority culture write in the voice of an
individual from a minority culture? Writers face specific challenges when they choose to write from a
cultural perspective that’s not their own, and they must decide whether they’ll be an invader, tourist,
or guest. Come hear what it’s like for a writer to create multicultural characters.
Kirstin Cronn-Mills writes young adult novels and teaches literature, writing, and critical thinking
classes at South Central College.
4. Living in Many WorldsE104
Due to globalization, there are those who live in many worlds and cultures. This is where Dan
Zielske lives today. When you live in many different worlds, there are many things your mind has
to sift through; how a person lives with all of the different cultural contradictions that exist in this
world; contradictions in historic facts and the related historic fallacies; the public and hidden political
agendas of various power groups; racial, ethnic or religious supremacy movements; similarities and
contradiction in world religions, ideologies and dogma; and other such human behavior. Dan will tell
you how he copes with these contradictory ideologies, and how he sees other people coping with the
same problems around the world. In his presentation he hopes to give you a glimpse of a truly global
perspective.
Daniel Zielske has been a Professor of Anthropology since 1991. His research has primarily been in
the fields of primatology, archaeology, ethnography, cultural anthropology and language. In particular,
Dan has studied or worked under the Jane Goodall Institute, Impact Services (Cultural Resource
Management), the Mdwankanton Dakota tribe, South Central College, Minnesota State UniversityMankato and Gustavus Adolphus College.
1:00 - 1:50
Lunch (11:00 - 2:00)Heritage Hall
Tanzanian cuisine (buffet and beverage) $8.00
Barnieh Opoku Manu is a Masters of Art student at Minnesota State University, Mankato. He is
a contemporary artist from Ghana and received his bachelor degree from the Kwame Nkrumah
University of Science and Technology.
5. Package food for Kids Against HungerHeritage Hall
Every minute 12 children die of starvation. Kids Against Hunger is a volunteer-driven effort to
package food locally and distribute that food around the world to help children where the need is
great. KAH believes that EVERY person can make a difference in the fight against national and global
hunger either by getting involved with their easy hands-on food packaging process, or by financial
generosity. KAH does this by delivering their specially formulated rice-soy casserole to children and
their families in over 40 countries at the cost of $.23 per serving.
This year SCC Student Organizations have set a goal of collecting $5000 by the time of this
conference to package about 22,000 meals right here at SCC!
2:00-2:50
1. Invasive Plants:
Not just a Problem in the United StatesE110
This presentation will start with a brief overview of invasive plant species, including some common
terminology, characters and basic ecology of invasive plants. The presentation will then talk about
invasive plant species here in the United States. Presenter Jordy Veit will give some examples, concerns,
and issues regarding invasive plant species in different parts of the world including Germany, New
Zealand and several other locations. Jordy will also include information on his current research with
Arctotheca prostrata, (Prostrate capeweed) a species that has been brought over to the United States
from South Africa and may be potentially invasive. The presentation will end with a brief discussion
on what can be done to reduce/prevent the spread of invasive species.
Jordy Veit is from New Ulm, MN. He went to SCC in 2006 and 2007 for an Associate in Arts
degree. In fall 2007, he started at MSU with a double major in Environmental and Plant Sciences.
During this time, he worked with Dr. Beth Procter on research with Reed Canary Grass and the
Common Buckthorn, both invasive plant species. From this point on he had a great interest in invasive
species. As an undergraduate student, he will present his research at two Undergraduate Research
Conferences at MSU Mankato, and has had two posters go to North American Lakes Management
Society conferences in 2009 and 2011. In 2011, he completed his Bachelor of Science. He is currently
a second year graduate student working on a Masters in Environmental Science.
2. Thailand and CambodiaE106
Join Dale DeRaad for 280 slides of Thailand and Cambodia including The Killing Fields, water well
construction, and the diverse culture of these countries.
Dale is a CPA, a former State Representative, and a South Central College Graduate
3. Stories for Children from around the WorldE112
Facts, even startling statistics, don’t usually touch our hearts or motivate us to action. Stories do.
Stories are the reason we care about people different than we are; stories help us identify with others;
stories make us recognize the commonality of being human; stories move information from our heads
to our hearts. Reading to a child has been shown to be one of the single biggest factors in academic
and personal success in that child’s life. Why not combine the experience and allow children’s stories
to be a vehicle for understanding world citizenship? Members of the Children’s Literature class will
take turns reading children’s picture books from around the world. Come and bring your kids; come
and bring your inner child. Everybody likes to be read to.
Note: Becky’s Newfoundland dog, Freya, will most likely attend the event also.
Becky (Rebecca Fjelland) Davis teaches Children’s Literature, along with other English classes and
Humanities at South Central College. She is the author of two young adult novels, Chasing AllieCat,
Jake Riley: Irreparably Damaged, and ten picture books for younger children.
4. Mankato Area Fair Trade Town InitiativeE104
Join Holly Jansma as she explains what fair trade is, how to identify fair trade products, and what
is happening locally and internationally in the fair trade movement. She will have a slide show that
illustrates these points.
Holly Jansma is a native of Minnesota. She earned her degree in international relations and political
science at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Her education has enhanced her understanding of
international issues at a grassroots level, so her interests lie in sustainability, the environment, and fair
trade. Holly is actively involved in the Mankato community and also participates in the Mankato Area
Fair Trade Town Initiative.
5. Package food for Kids Against HungerHeritage Hall
Every minute 12 children die of starvation. Kids Against Hunger is a volunteer-driven effort to
package food locally and distribute that food around the world to help children where the need is
great. KAH believes that EVERY person can make a difference in the fight against national and global
hunger either by getting involved with their easy hands-on food packaging process, or by financial
generosity. KAH does this by delivering their specially formulated rice-soy casserole to children and
their families in over 40 countries at the cost of $.23 per serving.
This year SCC Student Organizations have set a goal of collecting $5000 by the time of this
conference to package about 22,000 meals right here at SCC!
Global
Connections
C O N F E R E N C E
1. Student Global Education Panel PresentationE112
The students of GEOG 103 Introduction to Cultural Geography have asked several students (from
SCC, MSU, local high schools, and so on) who were born and raised outside of the U.S. to be on a
Student Global Education Panel. After panel members provide brief backgrounds of themselves, they
answer the following question: What did you think the U.S. would be like before you came here and
what did you really find when you arrived? The audience will then ask the panel questions about their
home cultures.
2. “ To burn books and bury the scholars alive:”
a look at the best and most evil deeds of
Emperor Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor.E102
While the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang of the Qin dynasty, has a reputation for his
tyrannical ways, he is also remembered for some of China’s most beloved cultural representations.
This session will touch on some of the lesser known accomplishments of Emperor Qin, but will dig
further behind the more notable Great Wall of China and the Terra-Cotta Warriors of emperor Qin’s
own mausoleum. Whether you are a traveler scoping out your next venture, or a homebody wishing to
live vicariously, this session promises to deliver.
Tracy Murphy has been an instructor of communication studies at South Central College since 2000.
While she teaches a number of courses, one of her favorites is intercultural communication, which
allows her to learn and share cultural knowledge with her students. Her appreciation and research of
the Chinese culture began in 2005 when she traveled to China for a five-week Fulbright Group Project
Abroad. This experience allowed her to travel and study in eleven different Chinese cities and to visit
a number of villages. During her 2008 sabbatical, Tracy traveled with her husband and three children
back to China. She and her husband taught English and conducted research at Guangxi Normal
University in Guilin, China.
O c to b e r 1 1 - 1 2 , 2 0 1 2
We want to thank administration,
faculty, and staff for making this
conference possible.
A big thank you to all the conference
presenters and volunteers.
3. SCC Trip to South AfricaE103
This presentation is an introduction to a trip to South Africa hosted by South Central College, May
20-June 7, 2013 (dates may vary slightly). This trip will be a journey in understanding humanity,
exploring the history of human rights, and being immersed in South African culture by spending
fourteen days on the ground in country. We will see the country, strive for an understanding of the
historic culture, and connect with people. The trip will include experiencing Cape Town, District
Six (political basis for the feature film “District Nine”), Port Elizabeth, the Red Location Museum
(Apartheid Museum), Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years), Eden
Campus Tertiary School of Business Administration, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University,
Sedgefield “Garden Roots,” an African safari, elephant park and ostrich park, and personal connections
with South African students.
South Central College is a proud member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities
system. The college is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator.
SCC has ADA accessible facilities.
If you need a disability accomodation to access this event,
contact the Academic Support Centrer at 507-389-7339 or through
the Minnesota Relay Service at 711 or 1-800-627-3529