Here's a news release from GCC:
When employers speak, Genesee Community College listens!
Recent studies indicate that employers want schools to hone in on "soft skills" such as communication, teamwork and leadership. Communication is a premium 21st Century aptitude and individuals who excel in public communication readily secure leadership roles in today's complex organizations.
At least 90 percent of GCC students are required to take a public speaking course, but the college realizes that the 15-week course does not give ample time to make all individuals great public speakers. The best way to improve public speaking is to keep speaking to the public!
To that end, and beginning, the college's Career Services Center and Student Activities is sponsoring a new GCC Toastmasters International Club.
The first meeting is scheduled from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 2 in room T102 (Technology Building).
As a community club, it is open not only to students, staff and faculty, but also to anyone from the greater Western New York area interested in making new friends and participating in activities, taking chances on new experiences and having fun in the world of communication.
Participants learn how to give impromptu speeches, present prepared speeches and to improve communication skills in a supportive environment. Toastmasters helps remove the fear of public speaking and teaches the skills that help members be more successful in whatever life path they select. The Toastmasters format works in tandem with GCC's public speaking course.
The Toastmasters Club is not a college, trade school or other formal course in public speaking. No one is graded and no tests are administered. Members learn by studying the manuals, practicing and helping one another in a safe club environment. Club meetings are workshops where attendees study and practice communication and leadership skills with others who are there for the same reasons. Research indicates that club members learn by doing and by watching.
During club meetings, members will build "quick thinking" skills, learn how to introduce speakers, conduct meetings and perform other roles that will give plenty of practice in a variety of communication experiences.
GCC invites all community members to mark on their calendars and consider bringing along a friend to this new club. Genesee Community College is located at 1 College Road, Batavia.
For more information contact: John McGowan, Career Services coordinator at 343-0055, ext 6383, <http://jmmcgowan@genesee.edu> or Jackie DiBella, instructor, at 278-8851, <http://jedibella@genesee.edu>.
