GCC medical coding, billing program lauded

IRONWOOD — Gogebic Community College was singled out for having one of the best medical coding and billing degree programs in 2021 by intelligent.com, an online magazine that rates post-secondary education programs.

GCC president George McNulty told board members at their Tuesday meeting that the program was also praised for being “academically rigorous.”

He said the magazine provides “unbiased” research that helps students make decisions on higher education.

GCC was selected from an assessment of 1,280 accredited college and universities, according to a GCC press release. The assessment is based on curriculum quality, graduation rate, reputation, and post-graduate employment, the release said.

McNulty said the college’s program was evaluated using a “unique scoring system” which includes student engagement, potential return on investment, and third-party evaluations.

“I’d like to congratulate the Allied Health Division on this special recognition,” said McNulty.

The board approved promoting bookstore manager Leah Hagen to the position of student outreach specialist. Hagen has both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communication from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

“Leah has played a vital role at the college with her ability to relate to and meet the needs of students, faculty and staff in her current positions as the bookstore manager and adjunct instructor,” said Erik Guenard, vice president of business services. “During her tenure as the bookstore manager, Ms. Hagen has put the needs of students and staff front and center in all aspects of her operations. Her qualifications are well suited for this position and students will benefit greatly from her knowledge and student-centered approach.”

Hagen will officially take the position on April 6. She will also continue to tend to the duties of the bookstore manager while the board reevaluates the position. Guenard said this was possible because it was a slower time of year for the bookstore.

“I tell you, we’ve got some staff that can juggle, right Kari?” said board member Sue Beals referring to marketing strategist Kari Klemme, who was promoted to her position at the beginning of the month and is still performing her former duties as assistant to the president until a replacement is hired.

The board also:

—Was introduced to the men’s basketball team.

—Accepted the first reading of the anti-fraud policy as presented.

—Accepted the first reading of the COVID-19 pandemic safety protocols policy as presented.