Philanthropist Ms. Kathleen Patton is not only one of the Cofounders of Crossing the Digital Divide, she is also the organization’s CEO and Executive Director. With a solid background in business, having started her first NPO in her early twenties, Kathleen Patton was more than prepared to take on the challenge of opening a computer training facility. This facility has been on the cutting edge of “Reentry Programs”. City officials are heralding RP’s as being vital to the cities success as they offer support to some of the most at-risk adults who are recovering from drug abuse and other challenges. Kathleen Patton’s organization, which was formed in January 2004, gives recovering addicts the opportunity to change their lives by learning how to use today’s technology to earn a living. Crossing the Digital Divide, which is located in Los Angeles, California, has three locations to better serve the community of high-risk adults in recovery.

Kathleen Patton utilizes her business smarts to manage and oversee the operations at Crossing the Digital Divide. Because of Kathleen Patton’s efforts, the Crossing the Digital Divide staff, and the numerous volunteers, Crossing the Digital Divide is an award-winning organization that has received recognition from the local government, including the mayor of the city of Los Angeles.

In addition to her work with CDD, Ms. Kathleen Patton also enjoys a close family, friends and colleagues. Kathleen Patton relaxes by participating in swimming, volleyball, hiking, music and film.

Kathleen Patton finds special meaning in the quote, “The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy.” Ms. Kathleen Patton also finds inspiration and deep meaning in a quote credited to one of her favorite writers, world-renowned author and poet Maya Angelou: "All great achievements require time."

CDD Weekly Class Report Walden House 10-18-10

WEEKLY CLASS REPORT

Walden House, Tuesday, October 18, 2010

 

Opening Comments:

Chairs were set up in rows with a white board for lecture. Soni, Joe and Loryn were there to instruct. Joe and Loryn were going to switch days, so Joe left shortly before class started.

 

Attendance:

Attendance was taken and the notebooks handed out. The room was full, with 13 students in attendance.

 

INTRODUCTIONS OR OVERVIEW:

The class jumped into the agenda quickly as there was a lot of information to review.

 

1ST TOPIC COVERED:

The class began by collecting papers from the students. Loryn reviewed the word count, giving credit to complete papers. Lecture began as a discussion on what makes a bad presentation. The students listed things like lack of volume, too many ‘uhms,’ and unprofessional attire. Soni then lectured on things that could help take away nervousness and create a great presentation: room set up, greeting the audience, knowing ones material, and practice.

2ND TOPIC COVERED:

The students were then told about graduation, being reminded it is a formal occasion, with pictures. Also, a class representative was to be chosen to speak and then they began their presentations. Every student in attendance took turns speaking in front of the room. After each student spoke the class applauded and then reviewed things that were good and things that could be improved. The class was reminded to share their computer skills experience gained from CDD in their speeches.

LAB TIME:

For lab time, students reviewed a handout with helpful Internet links. The CDD blog address was written on the board and each student took turns navigating to the site and submitting a post. Students who had completed their papers were directed to save onto a flash drive for submission. Those who were near finished continued typing. Special time was spent with: Edward Sandoval, to ensure he will finish his paper. Also, Paul Teargin, says he had over 500 words Saturday, but due to a saving issue (we checked the computer) he is now at 370 and will complete his typing to submit Saturday.

FINAL NOTES:

For the end of class, students were reminded they will all be presenting again on Saturday as a final presentation, so to practice with their papers, noting the key points to refer to.

There was an even set of 3 recommendations for presenter: Robert Johnson (engaging), Cookie (personable), Christopher Jorge (he was to work on his conclusion). Lastly, unfortunately, Isaias Martinez, initially in the class for attendance, was talked to on the side, regarding his outline. He said he had it in his room and left to get it, without returning.

Loryn took the books at the end of class for the Thursday meeting.