By Natalia Montemayor
Dr. Thomas Billimek, psychology chair, who has taught in the psychology department since 1971, is one of four nominees for the position, and is the only nominee who has worked within the district.
“I’ve had experience in all areas of the college and district — serving on committees as well as serving as a program coordinator,” Billimek said before taking inquiries at a forum April 18.
Les Germer, coordinator of college technologies, asked Billimek to share his thoughts on technology and how it helps students in the classroom. Billimek responded by saying that incorporating technology into a classroom curriculum can yield positive results if it is used properly.
Billimek also stressed the importance of faculty members staying up to date with the newest technologies.
“The resources are definitely there, but we have to remember that technology is not an end in itself. It’s a tool, and if used correctly, it can be a good resource for learning,” he said.
Another participant in the open forum asked Billimek to share his opinion on the developmental education program at this college.
“I think that we approach remediation from the wrong standpoint — requiring a student to enroll in a long series of remedial courses isn’t the best way to go,” Billimek said.
He continued by saying that professors should be able to identify those students who have already attained the basic skills to be competent in a regular class.
“Why should a student have to spend several semesters taking remedial courses if they only need six weeks of extra help?” he asked.
Billimek stated that the goal in developmental education should focus more on an individual student’s level of competence, so that they can enroll in regular math or English courses. “I think we need to be prepared to look at things from a different perspective,” Billimek added.
Billimek also had the opportunity to speak with his colleagues, as the chairs within the arts and sciences department met with Billimek during a separate meeting that followed the forum.
“If I am elected to this position, I will not renounce my position as a professor; that is what I am, a professor of psychology,” Billimek stated during the meeting. He also said he would continue to have the title of professor printed on his business cards if he became a dean.
“As chairs, we have had to work with each other and with faculty, and it’s all for our students,” Billimek said.
Billimek stated that he knew if he became dean, he would have to work hard to re-establish the foundation of trust with his colleagues, because of the stigma of isolation associated with higher positions within the district.
“I am still convinced that all administration, from the chancellor on down, should be required to teach at least one class a year, because the further you are from the classroom, the less you know about your purpose in the education system,” he said.
Chemistry Professor Bill Haley addressed issues directly affecting faculty members. “There have been rumors that members of administration are speaking to faculty personally about not having enough students in their classes making a C or better,” Haley said.
Billimek said he didn’t recall hearing such a thing, but that he had heard about chairs having to deal with complaints from district about the way class sections are managed. “I happen to think that the chairs do an exceptional job managing class sections,” he said.
The perpetual issue of lack of funds within academic departments also was discussed. Currently, 86 percent of the college’s money goes to salaries, leaving 14 percent for operations within departments.
“Dr. (Robert) Zeigler feels more comfortable now telling the district that we are underfunded,” Billimek said. “If I am told I am only going to be funded for 90 sections out of 100 sections, I will kill the class. And I expect you to do the same.”