Profiles - About Alumni for September 2008

Featured Alum: Betty Jean Lane, attended 1974-75; Fine Arts

Now living in Duarte California, this California-based painter and sculptor has over 30 years of study and creativity in Fine Arts. Her dad still lives in the Prescott area, and she makes it out to see him at least twice a year. Betty Jean (BJ) is finalizing plans to be in AZ during the week of Yavapai College's 40th celebration! The last few times she’s been in Prescott, she’s even been able to paint downtown Prescott’s famous “Courthouse Square”.

She’s hoping to get a couple days to set up her "plein air" studio while she’s here...as long as it doesn't rain! In the meantime, she has been invited to demonstrate and show her artwork during the LA County Fair (in the Millard Sheets Gallery). She writes, “It will be good to be back in my home town! And I look forward to seeing the changes at Yavapai College! See you soon!”

Here is her full profile:

"It was my dream early in life to be an artist. I graduated from Prescott High in 1974 and by the fall I had saved enough money from a part-time job at the local movie theater to enroll in art classes at Yavapai College. At 19 years old, I began sharing my craft, as I demonstrated making apple-head dolls at the Sharlot Hall Museum.

During my college years, my earliest artwork was exhibited at the Mountain Artist Guild Gallery, in Prescott. Encouraged by my painting professor at Yavapai College, Elaine Farrar, I was accepted into a gallery in Carefree, Arizona. My second year of college landed me an art scholarship. I was able to continue my art studies, and took every art class available to me.

I had my first one-woman show at the early age of 20. I was destined to hit the big time. Los Angeles awaited me with its glitter, and I soon found myself moving into this busy city. I soon began showing work in and around Los Angeles and taught art workshops and private lessons.

All of my painting professors at Yavapai College were significant in the development of me as a fine artist. However, in addition to all the instruction and knowledge I gathered in those tow precious years, one professor stands out among the others. Elaine Farrar, my painting instructor, offered me the most encouragement and truly believed in my talent. I sincerely thank her for her precious gift.

In 1981, with the creation of a family, my ideal career settled down to a sacred bedroom, converted into a studio. A closet artist was born. Although my exhibiting was minimal, I kept my heart and one hand in my art, and I continued to take classes at local community colleges, created private and commissioned work, and began a journey to discover new expressions of self through different mediums. I took classes in clay sculpture and discovered ceramics. I took classes at the local community college in airbrush, illustration and design. I also kept involved in the art community in different ways.

While my children were young, I volunteered to teach art in my children’s school classrooms. Later on I volunteered to teach art in the special education classes and when State monies ran out for art teachers and art programs, I volunteered to share my knowledge with some local schools during the year.

After 27 years of raising 3 daughters I have finally come out of my closet. Re-discovering my art, re-emerging in the current art world, I have exploded with extraordinary force. Pandora’s box has been opened and my heart has emerged once again, and my artwork has come full swing. I am once again exhibiting in galleries, presenting demonstrations, creating and following my dream. I have found that it’s never too late to follow your heart and your dreams."

(back to top)

Teresa Schwickerath, Associate of Science - 2003

(Left) with son Tyler (r.) and daughter Lindsey

Many of our alumni find that Yavapai College offers a wonderful employment opportunity. Teresa Schwickerath now works on the Verde Valley Campus as Administrative Assistant for Liberal Arts/Social Sciences. Teresa earned her second degree from Yavapai College, an Associate of Science in December 2003, after deciding to pursue a Bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University. She had previously attended Mesa Community College after graduating from an Iowa high school and making the move to Arizona, but didn’t complete the associate’s degree at that time.

“I was no different than most young adults fresh out of high school. I knew I wanted to continue my education but wasn’t sure of my major.” After working at the college several years and taking computer classes to upgrade her skills, she realized that the desire to further her education was still a priority. “Taking a couple of classes a semester was all I could manage while raising children and working full-time. I was also able to encourage many other students, just like me, to continue working on their education, even with a busy schedule like mine.”

She has since graduated from Old Dominion University with a Bachelor’s in Communication and is now pursuing a Master’s degree in English so she can continue supporting the educational process as an instructor. Teresa’s son Tyler has also earned his degree in computers from YC and her daughter Lindsey will soon complete her Associate of Fine Arts degree through the college.

“My children have been coming to the college for the “College for Kids” program since they were young and have seen me working diligently on my education. I think that has been an excellent influence on them and made them see the value of higher education as well as the many possibilities that would open up to them.”

(back to top)

George (Joe) Lee, attended 1969-1971; Chemistry

Joe’s story is another example of how additional training at Yavapai College led to a rewarding career here on campus. Joe writes:

“I work as a Technician on the Verde Campus in Presentation Technology Services. I have a B.A. in Motion Picture TV production and a Masters in Instructional Media. I have also completed the course work for an M.A. in Psychology.

I remember the first semester Yavapai College had opened with a full curriculum. The campus was still under construction. I took English at the V.A. Hospital, Chemistry Lab at the High School and most of my classes were in the basement of a church located downtown on Gurley Street. I certified in SCUBA in the first SCUBA class offered at the Yavapai College pool in the spring of 1971. I still dive today. My last dive was in Bonaire in January this year.

I remember John Duran, my Organic Biology Instructor the best. He was the one who challenged me to change my study habits. This was a turning point that allowed me to be a successful student. Mrs. Brown, My Organic Chemistry instructor was also instrumental in getting me to exceed my limits.”

(back to top)

Larry Hellman, attended 1972-1986; General Studies

(Left) Me looking like a doctor. Today I cannot call myself a doctor (even though I graduated from SCNM medical school) because I do not see patients. I now train naturopathic doctors in current nutritional health care.

Larry found some old photos and began to reminisce about the old days at Yavapai College. He shares that they might bring back memories of former teammates.

(Right) A Prescott High School football team pic. I am on top, Jim Skurja, Buddy Mosley and Chuck Weeks on the bottom. Most of my classmates will recognize the pic; it was popular in 1971.

Larry finished his Bachelor of Science in Human Biology (Pre Med) at Grand Canyon University; then went on to Graduate Naturopathic Medical School. He is now the Owner /President of the Natural Medicine Speakers Bureau. He is a Healthcare Educator and Independent Representative for Designs for Health NiTek (Non Invasive Technologies).

“I got my certificate in Emergency Medicine while working as a volunteer for Central Yavapai Fire District. I took a class in sales and learned the basics in the art of Sales. That education pays off more than anything I have done.”

(Left) Dani is my Niece who graduated from Bradshaw High and is graduating from West Point on the 30th of this month.

Mike Shepard as the significant person who positively impacted him while he was at the College. He recalls that Mike embarrassed him in his first speech class, so he vowed to become a great public communicator, and says he’s still working on it. Larry is now an effective speaker since he is the owner and President of the Natural Medicine Speakers Bureau. Larry notes that Mike Shepard is still a great public speaker.

(back to top)