PULLMAN, Wash. — Washington State University’s first online, noncredit
computer certificate program has its first graduate.
Beth L. Buchanan, who coordinates several volunteer programs for the elderly
in Bremerton supported by Lutheran Social Services, recently completed the
university’s Volunteer Management Certificate Program.
“The program has had an enormously positive impact on my work as a
volunteer manager, ” said Buchanan, who credits the outstanding faculty and
flexibility of the program as reasons she would recommend it to others. “I
believe I am a much better volunteer manager than I was when I started.”
To earn the certificate, participants must successfully complete all four units in
the VMCP by applying text material to job-related exercises and completing
assignments critiqued by the faculty.
“This form of independent study takes a good deal of initiative, and Beth
proved that the material is valuable and accessible,” said Nancy Mack, VMCP
manager. “We are so excited to see such positive results from web-based
material.” More online certificate programs are planned, according to
Conferences and Professional Programs director John Thielbahr.
WSU’s CAPPS led the coordination of faculty, technical support and students.
The program is flexible with open enrollment, up to two years to complete, and
opportunities to interact with others in the course. It is especially helpful for
those who manage or plan to manage volunteers in social service agencies,
non-profit organizations, schools, hospitals, community groups or
corporations.
Nearly 60 adult learners are enrolled throughout North America, and some are
globally-challenged, being located in India, Germany and Barbados.
You can visit the VMCP Web site at
include recruitment of volunteers, training of volunteers, supervision and
management, and evaluation and recognition. Participants may take one or all
of the units.
Faculty leader Janet Hiller, an extension 4-H youth specialist in WSU’s
Department of Human Development, instigated the program in 1998 with
assistance from Nancy Macduff, adjunct faculty member in human
development; Lauri Sherfey, a cooperative extension agent; and Deb Nelson,
an instructor in human development. After a year of development work,
CAPPS opened enrollment. Now, a year and a half later, enrollments continue
to arrive monthly, said Mack.
To receive information about VMCP, go to the Web site, or call 800/942-4978 or
509/335-3530 for a free brochure.
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