City College introduced its new Memory Care Program for Spring 2015, including
two caregiver courses for people suffering from dementia.

Ann-Marie Kopeikin, director of the vocational nursing program, introduced the program
and its background to the Board of Trustees on Thursday.

The program was developed during her sabbatical leave last spring and includes a course
in the art of caring for a person with dementia. The class began Jan. 22 this year.

“This course is dedicated to improve the quality of life of the older adult with dementia,”
said Kopeikin.

The other class focuses on the communication and connection between a caregiver and his or her patient.
Many members of the board were moved by Kopeikin’s dedication and expressed their
appreciation after her presentation.

“This will be a model program for the country,” said Jack Friedlander, executive vice
president for educational programs. “That’s why we’re number one, because of faculty
like Ann-Marie.”

During the night’s meeting Superintendent-President Dr. Lori Gaskin announced that
City College is expected to welcome a new Executive Vice President for Educational
Programs in July 2015.

Gaskin is in the process of changing the president’s cabinet, currently comprised of
the Executive Vice President of Educational Programs and three additional vice
presidents.

“There has been a confluence of events, expectations and opportunities that have been in
the works and beginning to impact the institution that is causing me to implement this
reorganization,” Gaskin said.

The person currently occupying the position, Jack Friedlander, will keep his title as
Executive Vice President after the summer. There will, however, be changes to his current
responsibilities at City College.

The Board of Trustees addressed the matter and Gaskin explained the reason behind
Friedlander’s change in duties.