Recognition and Excellence Awards
The MCCA Annual Recognition and Excellence Awards program is dedicated to recognizing individuals and institutions that have set the standard of excellence during the year. Receiving an MCCA award is a great way to gain recognition, not only within the higher education industry, but at your institution and across the state. By recognizing outstanding service in ourselves and others, we bring prestige to our profession and our institutional roles.
Award of Distinction: Winner
Presented to individuals who have demonstrated sustained service and commitment to their local community college. It is one of the highest honors MCCA bestows. Winners will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Presented to individuals who have demonstrated sustained service and commitment to their local community college. It is one of the highest honors MCCA bestows. Winners will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Doug Freed | Nominated by State Fair Community College
It is with great privilege to nominate Doug Freed as State Fair Community College submission for the Missouri Community College 2024 Award of Distinction. This nomination starts with a story back in 1968. Doug Freed was hired on August 1, 1968, and is the only charter faculty member and served until his retirement in 2008. He began his career as the one-man art department in two classrooms in the original structure of the college nicknamed Plywood U. He served as chairman of the art department for the many years. He watched his program reach one pinnacle after another -- the opening of the Goddard Gallery in the Stauffacher in 1995 and then the opening of the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art in 2002. The Daum Museum opened to the public in 2002, and shortly thereafter became nationally known when a reviewer from the New York Times visited there and wrote a significant review. Freed served as the Director of the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art at State Fair Community College until his retirement in February 2008.
He served as the principal advisor to Dr. Harold “Hal” Daum a local radiologist in assembling his collection of contemporary art. Freed helped build the Daum Museum collection from 200 objects to over 800 since its opening in 2002. He has served as curator for over 50 exhibitions, several of which toured to other museums. Freed has stayed active in his community and has served on several boards, including two terms as president of the Sedalia Arts Council of which he was a founding member.
In additional to his teaching duties, Freed has pursued his own art and selling some of his art as well. He has exhibited his work in nearly every major U.S. city. His works have appeared in a number of prestigious collections including those of the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Newark Museum in New Jersey, the Steinberg Art Museum at Washington University, the Museum of Art and Archeology at the University of Missouri in Columbia and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City.
Doug Freed has given generously to the college since 1968 and his commitment to the art world not only locally but also internationally is why State Fair Community College is recommending him the Missouri Community College Association 2024 Award of Distinction.
He served as the principal advisor to Dr. Harold “Hal” Daum a local radiologist in assembling his collection of contemporary art. Freed helped build the Daum Museum collection from 200 objects to over 800 since its opening in 2002. He has served as curator for over 50 exhibitions, several of which toured to other museums. Freed has stayed active in his community and has served on several boards, including two terms as president of the Sedalia Arts Council of which he was a founding member.
In additional to his teaching duties, Freed has pursued his own art and selling some of his art as well. He has exhibited his work in nearly every major U.S. city. His works have appeared in a number of prestigious collections including those of the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Newark Museum in New Jersey, the Steinberg Art Museum at Washington University, the Museum of Art and Archeology at the University of Missouri in Columbia and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City.
Doug Freed has given generously to the college since 1968 and his commitment to the art world not only locally but also internationally is why State Fair Community College is recommending him the Missouri Community College Association 2024 Award of Distinction.
Distinguished Alumni Award: Winners
Presented to exceptional individuals who have attended a Missouri community college. Although it is not required that the recipient be a graduate of a community college, preference is given to those who have earned a certificate or completed a degree program. Winners will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Presented to exceptional individuals who have attended a Missouri community college. Although it is not required that the recipient be a graduate of a community college, preference is given to those who have earned a certificate or completed a degree program. Winners will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Judge Brice Sechrest | Nominated by Mineral Area College
Associate Circuit Judge, St. Francois County
"Mineral Area College is pleased to nominate the Honorable Brice Sechrest of Park Hills for the Distinguished Alumni Award. Judge Sechrest's distinguished career and profound impact within the legal community and beyond exemplify the values and excellence that Mineral Area College strives to instill in its graduates.
A proud alumnus of Mineral Area College, Judge Sechrest began his academic journey with an academic and music scholarship, graduating with an Associate of Arts degree in 1999. Recognized for his remarkable achievements, he was honored with the Outstanding Student Award in Academics upon graduation. Continuing his pursuit of education, Judge Sechrest earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Political Science and a minor in Mathematics from Southeast Missouri State University in 2003, followed by a Juris Doctor from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale in 2007.
Judge Sechrest's professional journey is marked by a steadfast commitment to justice and community service. He began his legal career in Cape Girardeau before returning to his hometown at the Law Firm of Williams & Sechrest, P.C. in Park Hills. His legal practice encompassed diverse areas including criminal defense, family law, probate, estate planning, and civil litigation. Notably, Judge Sechrest served as a dedicated guardian ad litem for numerous children in Juvenile and Family Court cases, demonstrating his unwavering advocacy for vulnerable members of the community.
In recognition of his exemplary legal acumen and dedication to justice, Governor Parson appointed Judge Sechrest as Associate Circuit Judge for St. Francois County in 2021, a role he was subsequently elected to in 2022. In this capacity, he presides over a wide array of cases including criminal, family, small claims, and landlord-tenant matters. His commitment to advancing judicial excellence is further evidenced by his appointment to the Family Court Committee by the Supreme Court of Missouri, where he contributes to shaping policies and rules for Family Courts statewide. Judge Sechrest's impact extends beyond the courtroom as he actively engages with community organizations and initiatives. His involvement in creating a ministry to support foster children and their families at First Baptist Church in Park Hills underscores his dedication to improving the lives of others. Mineral Area College proudly celebrates Judge Brice Sechrest as a distinguished alumnus whose career exemplifies integrity, leadership, and service. His enduring contributions to the legal profession and his compassionate advocacy for children and families enrich our community and reflect the highest ideals of our institution."
"Mineral Area College is pleased to nominate the Honorable Brice Sechrest of Park Hills for the Distinguished Alumni Award. Judge Sechrest's distinguished career and profound impact within the legal community and beyond exemplify the values and excellence that Mineral Area College strives to instill in its graduates.
A proud alumnus of Mineral Area College, Judge Sechrest began his academic journey with an academic and music scholarship, graduating with an Associate of Arts degree in 1999. Recognized for his remarkable achievements, he was honored with the Outstanding Student Award in Academics upon graduation. Continuing his pursuit of education, Judge Sechrest earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Political Science and a minor in Mathematics from Southeast Missouri State University in 2003, followed by a Juris Doctor from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale in 2007.
Judge Sechrest's professional journey is marked by a steadfast commitment to justice and community service. He began his legal career in Cape Girardeau before returning to his hometown at the Law Firm of Williams & Sechrest, P.C. in Park Hills. His legal practice encompassed diverse areas including criminal defense, family law, probate, estate planning, and civil litigation. Notably, Judge Sechrest served as a dedicated guardian ad litem for numerous children in Juvenile and Family Court cases, demonstrating his unwavering advocacy for vulnerable members of the community.
In recognition of his exemplary legal acumen and dedication to justice, Governor Parson appointed Judge Sechrest as Associate Circuit Judge for St. Francois County in 2021, a role he was subsequently elected to in 2022. In this capacity, he presides over a wide array of cases including criminal, family, small claims, and landlord-tenant matters. His commitment to advancing judicial excellence is further evidenced by his appointment to the Family Court Committee by the Supreme Court of Missouri, where he contributes to shaping policies and rules for Family Courts statewide. Judge Sechrest's impact extends beyond the courtroom as he actively engages with community organizations and initiatives. His involvement in creating a ministry to support foster children and their families at First Baptist Church in Park Hills underscores his dedication to improving the lives of others. Mineral Area College proudly celebrates Judge Brice Sechrest as a distinguished alumnus whose career exemplifies integrity, leadership, and service. His enduring contributions to the legal profession and his compassionate advocacy for children and families enrich our community and reflect the highest ideals of our institution."
Chief Glenna Wallace | Nominated by Crowder College
Chief, Eastern Shawnee Tribe
Chief Glenna Wallace is a remarkable leader and a prominent figure within the Eastern Shawnee Tribe. Her unwavering dedication to her people and her tireless efforts in preserving the tribe's cultural heritage have made her a respected and influential leader. Among her many accomplishments, her experiences at Crowder College played a pivotal role in shaping her journey towards becoming the esteemed Chief she is today. Chief Wallace's educational journey began at Crowder College. It was here that she embarked on a path of higher education, setting the stage for her future accomplishments. At Crowder College, Chief Wallace pursued her passion for education and obtained an Associate of Arts degree. During her studies at Crowder College, Chief Wallace actively participated in student organizations, where she honed her communication and organizational skills.
Additionally, she excelled academically, earning recognition for her exceptional performance and dedication. As a Native American student, Chief Wallace took pride in sharing her culture with her fellow students and faculty members. She became a bridge between cultures, fostering understanding and appreciation for Native American traditions. This experience served as a catalyst for her future work in promoting cultural awareness and advocating for Native American rights. Chief Wallace's time at Crowder College laid the groundwork for her subsequent achievements. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Northeastern State University and a Master of Science degree in Education Administration from Pittsburg State University. Armed with knowledge and a deep sense of purpose, she dedicated herself to advocating for her tribe and serving her community. Chief Glenna Wallace became actively involved in tribal affairs, serving in various leadership roles within the Eastern Shawnee Tribe. In 2006, her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts were recognized when she was elected as the first female Chief of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe. Her historic election marked a significant milestone for not only her tribe but also for Native American women across the nation. Under Chief Wallace's leadership, the Eastern Shawnee Tribe has made remarkable strides in preserving its cultural heritage, expanding economic opportunities, and improving the well-being of its members. She has been instrumental in forging partnerships with educational institutions, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, working towards the betterment of her tribe and the Native American community as a whole. Chief Glenna Wallace's journey from Crowder College to becoming the Chief of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe is a testament to her unwavering commitment, resilience, and dedication to her people. Today, Chief Glenna Wallace continues to inspire and lead, promoting unity, cultural understanding, and the advancement of her tribe. Her remarkable leadership serves as an inspiration to future generations, showing them the power of education, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Native American heritage.
Chief Glenna Wallace is a remarkable leader and a prominent figure within the Eastern Shawnee Tribe. Her unwavering dedication to her people and her tireless efforts in preserving the tribe's cultural heritage have made her a respected and influential leader. Among her many accomplishments, her experiences at Crowder College played a pivotal role in shaping her journey towards becoming the esteemed Chief she is today. Chief Wallace's educational journey began at Crowder College. It was here that she embarked on a path of higher education, setting the stage for her future accomplishments. At Crowder College, Chief Wallace pursued her passion for education and obtained an Associate of Arts degree. During her studies at Crowder College, Chief Wallace actively participated in student organizations, where she honed her communication and organizational skills.
Additionally, she excelled academically, earning recognition for her exceptional performance and dedication. As a Native American student, Chief Wallace took pride in sharing her culture with her fellow students and faculty members. She became a bridge between cultures, fostering understanding and appreciation for Native American traditions. This experience served as a catalyst for her future work in promoting cultural awareness and advocating for Native American rights. Chief Wallace's time at Crowder College laid the groundwork for her subsequent achievements. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Northeastern State University and a Master of Science degree in Education Administration from Pittsburg State University. Armed with knowledge and a deep sense of purpose, she dedicated herself to advocating for her tribe and serving her community. Chief Glenna Wallace became actively involved in tribal affairs, serving in various leadership roles within the Eastern Shawnee Tribe. In 2006, her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts were recognized when she was elected as the first female Chief of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe. Her historic election marked a significant milestone for not only her tribe but also for Native American women across the nation. Under Chief Wallace's leadership, the Eastern Shawnee Tribe has made remarkable strides in preserving its cultural heritage, expanding economic opportunities, and improving the well-being of its members. She has been instrumental in forging partnerships with educational institutions, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, working towards the betterment of her tribe and the Native American community as a whole. Chief Glenna Wallace's journey from Crowder College to becoming the Chief of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe is a testament to her unwavering commitment, resilience, and dedication to her people. Today, Chief Glenna Wallace continues to inspire and lead, promoting unity, cultural understanding, and the advancement of her tribe. Her remarkable leadership serves as an inspiration to future generations, showing them the power of education, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Native American heritage.
Phyllis Jackson | Nominated by North Central Missouri College
Alumni
North Central Missouri College would like to nominate alum, Phyllis Jackson for this prestigious award. Phyllis is a huge champion of community college and NCMC. Not only does she serve on the Foundation Board, she also has a scholarship, was one of our commencement speakers in 2022, and does everything she can to make sure NCMC is as best as it can be. She serves and has served on multiple committees within the Foundation and you can find her at as many NCMC events as she can. She is a champion for NCMC, within the community, and a true representation of what it is to be a Pirate for Life. We are proud she is a Pirate and she is proud to call herself an NCMC/TJC graduate. She has been instrumental in our capital campaign and on our Foundation board.
North Central Missouri College would like to nominate alum, Phyllis Jackson for this prestigious award. Phyllis is a huge champion of community college and NCMC. Not only does she serve on the Foundation Board, she also has a scholarship, was one of our commencement speakers in 2022, and does everything she can to make sure NCMC is as best as it can be. She serves and has served on multiple committees within the Foundation and you can find her at as many NCMC events as she can. She is a champion for NCMC, within the community, and a true representation of what it is to be a Pirate for Life. We are proud she is a Pirate and she is proud to call herself an NCMC/TJC graduate. She has been instrumental in our capital campaign and on our Foundation board.
Distinguished Business & Industry Award: Winners
Presented to individuals and/or businesses that have engaged in significant partnerships with their local community college to stimulate economic activity and support students and programs. Winners will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Presented to individuals and/or businesses that have engaged in significant partnerships with their local community college to stimulate economic activity and support students and programs. Winners will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Phelps County Sheriff's Department & Rolla Police Department | Nominated by East Central College
"An initiative born out of close collaboration with East Centra College and law enforcement agencies in central Missouri will lead to more officers serving throughout the region at a time when employment in the profession is at a critical stage. In August 2021, Phelps County Sheriff, Michael P. Kirn, contacted East Central College’s Rolla Director, Christina Ayres, to express the dire need to fill vacancies with licensed peace officers and the lack of training options within reasonable proximity. In that conversation, a collaborative partnership was initiated to serve regional workforce needs. The goal was clear – The establishment of a licensed basic training center in Rolla, MO was necessary to strengthen ECC’s service region infrastructure, develop an essential, well-qualified employment pipeline to address the growing shortage of officers, reduce the resource commitment for local agencies to send current employees for training outside of the region, and provide continuing education options for current licensed peace officers.
Representatives from the Phelps County Sheriff’s department, Rolla Police department, and ECC met weekly for more than a year to create a licensed training center to offer a basic training academy and continued education for current peace officers. Sheriff Michael P. Kirn and Rolla Police Department Assistant Chief, William Loughridge, significantly contributed to planning, creating, and developing the training center with Rolla Director, Christina Ayres. The East Central College – Phelps Law Enforcement Training Center was recommended for licensure in October 2022 by the Missouri P.O.S.T. Commission and licensed as a Basic Training Center by the Missouri Department of Public Safety’s Peace Officer Standards and Training program beginning January 1, 2023. The inaugural basic training academy cohort began in August 2023. Graduating students receive a Certificate in Law Enforcement, are eligible to sit for the Missouri Peace Officer Licensing Exam and have the option to complete an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Law Enforcement.
The strategic partnership with the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department maximizes resources to keep student costs affordable without compromising quality. Both agencies provide space and equipment for firearms, physical fitness, and defensive tactics training. The Phelps County Sheriff’s Department also provides use of their VirTra law enforcement reality-based situational training and shooting simulator and vehicles for driver training. Both agencies sponsored current employees to attend instructor training for academy curriculum requiring a specialist license. Both agencies serve on the training center’s advisory board.
The Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department contribute to program longevity and success. Both agencies have committed to ongoing recruitment efforts for the basic training academy by establishing and maintaining feeder programs including the PCSD Teen Deputy Academy, RPD Junior Police Cadet program, Volunteers in Police Service, and the RPD Citizen’s Police Academy. These programs provide community members an opportunity to learn more about a career in law enforcement and connect potential students to academy training. In addition, both agencies sponsor current employees during the basic training academy.
The college would not have been able to solely develop and sustain a law enforcement training program and this essential continuing education pathway for our region without the comprehensive and collaborative support of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department. This exemplary community partnership fully maximizes ECC’s mission of serving our communities through education.
East Central College is proud to nominate the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department for the 2024 Business and Industry Award of the Missouri Community College Association."
Representatives from the Phelps County Sheriff’s department, Rolla Police department, and ECC met weekly for more than a year to create a licensed training center to offer a basic training academy and continued education for current peace officers. Sheriff Michael P. Kirn and Rolla Police Department Assistant Chief, William Loughridge, significantly contributed to planning, creating, and developing the training center with Rolla Director, Christina Ayres. The East Central College – Phelps Law Enforcement Training Center was recommended for licensure in October 2022 by the Missouri P.O.S.T. Commission and licensed as a Basic Training Center by the Missouri Department of Public Safety’s Peace Officer Standards and Training program beginning January 1, 2023. The inaugural basic training academy cohort began in August 2023. Graduating students receive a Certificate in Law Enforcement, are eligible to sit for the Missouri Peace Officer Licensing Exam and have the option to complete an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Law Enforcement.
The strategic partnership with the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department maximizes resources to keep student costs affordable without compromising quality. Both agencies provide space and equipment for firearms, physical fitness, and defensive tactics training. The Phelps County Sheriff’s Department also provides use of their VirTra law enforcement reality-based situational training and shooting simulator and vehicles for driver training. Both agencies sponsored current employees to attend instructor training for academy curriculum requiring a specialist license. Both agencies serve on the training center’s advisory board.
The Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department contribute to program longevity and success. Both agencies have committed to ongoing recruitment efforts for the basic training academy by establishing and maintaining feeder programs including the PCSD Teen Deputy Academy, RPD Junior Police Cadet program, Volunteers in Police Service, and the RPD Citizen’s Police Academy. These programs provide community members an opportunity to learn more about a career in law enforcement and connect potential students to academy training. In addition, both agencies sponsor current employees during the basic training academy.
The college would not have been able to solely develop and sustain a law enforcement training program and this essential continuing education pathway for our region without the comprehensive and collaborative support of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department. This exemplary community partnership fully maximizes ECC’s mission of serving our communities through education.
East Central College is proud to nominate the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department for the 2024 Business and Industry Award of the Missouri Community College Association."
Mercy Healthcare Company | Nominated by St. Louis Community College
Our region is experiencing a severe shortage of health care professionals that is affecting the delivery of patient care to millions. To address these shortages St. Louis Community College (STLCC) has explored collaborative partnerships with health care partners in our community. In 2022, a new and innovative program was established at Mercy Hospital South called the “Win from Within” program. The focus of this collaborative program was to offer additional support to employees while they completed a program in the nursing and health professions at STLCC. In this program, students are offered a flexible part-time job, full tuition assistance and program-related expenses ($10,000 per year), a mentor, and a full-time job upon completion from their program. The program started with 15 nursing students and has expanded to 155 students and counting (more than $1.5 million awarded), including nursing, radiologic technology, diagnostic ultrasound, respiratory care, surgical technology, hospitality, early childcare, and medical assistant. The “Win from Within” program has been so successful it is now being expanded across the entire Mercy system in Missouri and even into Oklahoma. This innovative program has led to an increase in student enrollments, a decrease in attrition rates, and is successfully launching graduates into the health care workforce.
Rick's Automotive | Nominated by Ozarks Technical Community College
Rick Hughlett and his wife Karen, of Rick’s Automotive, have a long history with OTC. Rick attended the precursor to OTC, the Graff Area Vocational-Technical Center. Not long after the college opened its doors, Rick became involved with OTC on the automotive technology advisory board. Later, the college asked Rick to serve on the OTC Foundation board, a position he still holds today. In 2022, the Hughlett family donated to the new Robert W. Plaster Center for Advanced Manufacturing to establish a student lounge in the PMC. In May of this year, OTC dedicated Rick’s Automotive Student Lounge located in the newly remodeled Industry and Transportation Technology Center. In addition to their donations to establish the two student lounges, Rick’s Automotive also invests in other OTC Foundation initiatives including scholarships, emergency funds, golf tournaments, the automotive program and various other funds.
Missouri Pathfinder of the Year Award: Winners
Presented annually to “unsung hero” high school teachers and guidance counselors for their outstanding efforts in assisting students with their college-going plans. Criteria for the award include the nominees encouraging student(s) to attend an MCCA college, assisting student(s) in identifying a career and postsecondary path, providing mentorship and/or maintaining contact with student(s) to assist them with achieving their goals. Winners will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Presented annually to “unsung hero” high school teachers and guidance counselors for their outstanding efforts in assisting students with their college-going plans. Criteria for the award include the nominees encouraging student(s) to attend an MCCA college, assisting student(s) in identifying a career and postsecondary path, providing mentorship and/or maintaining contact with student(s) to assist them with achieving their goals. Winners will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Kim Thornbrough | Nominated by Three Rivers College
Counselor, Sikeston Senior High School
Kim Thornbrough, the Sikeston Senior High Counselor has proven herself to be an advocate of Three Rivers College for many years. Her dedication to the College Now program, where students complete an associates degree at that same time as a high school diploma, has paved the way for several first-generation college students to complete two years of higher education at no cost to the student. Ms. Thornbrough has a heart for student success that has guided her education career. She completed a bachelor’s in education with an emphasis in Special Education from Southeast Missouri State University in 1997 and worked as a special education teacher for two years. While working in special education, she formed a close relationship with the school counselor and decided to make the transition in 2001, after completing a Masters in School Counseling. As a school counselor, Ms. Thornbrough has been named the SEMOSCA High School Counselor of the year, serves as the Department Chair for all counselors in the Sikeston R-6 district, is the National Honors Society sponsor, and continues to be nominated by students as the Counselor of the month. Ms. Thornbrough brings a personal investment to student success by keeping in constant contact with her dual credit students to celebrate their victories. A conversation with Thornbrough quickly reveals the shared excitement she experiences when her students reach their goals and get accepted into their dream colleges. Her favorite part of being a high school counselor is the opportunity to take her students to tour Missouri community colleges and watch as the students become open to new possibilities.
Kim Thornbrough, the Sikeston Senior High Counselor has proven herself to be an advocate of Three Rivers College for many years. Her dedication to the College Now program, where students complete an associates degree at that same time as a high school diploma, has paved the way for several first-generation college students to complete two years of higher education at no cost to the student. Ms. Thornbrough has a heart for student success that has guided her education career. She completed a bachelor’s in education with an emphasis in Special Education from Southeast Missouri State University in 1997 and worked as a special education teacher for two years. While working in special education, she formed a close relationship with the school counselor and decided to make the transition in 2001, after completing a Masters in School Counseling. As a school counselor, Ms. Thornbrough has been named the SEMOSCA High School Counselor of the year, serves as the Department Chair for all counselors in the Sikeston R-6 district, is the National Honors Society sponsor, and continues to be nominated by students as the Counselor of the month. Ms. Thornbrough brings a personal investment to student success by keeping in constant contact with her dual credit students to celebrate their victories. A conversation with Thornbrough quickly reveals the shared excitement she experiences when her students reach their goals and get accepted into their dream colleges. Her favorite part of being a high school counselor is the opportunity to take her students to tour Missouri community colleges and watch as the students become open to new possibilities.
Amanda Cook | Nominated by Moberly Area Community College
Counselor, North Shelby High School
In partnership with the North Shelby School District, MACC offers dual credit opportunities to high school students, a program in which Ms. Cook, the North Shelby High School Counselor, plays a pivotal role. Her unwavering belief in MACC’s dual credit program, meticulous attention to detail, exceptional communication skills, and steadfast determination to see students succeed is unmatched. A current MACC student and North Shelby High School graduate writes, “Ms. Cook is the person to go to if you have any problems. She helped me solidify plans and really encouraged me as I mapped out my future. Even after graduation, she still answered all the questions I had when I didn’t know who to go to. She is an amazing and extremely caring person.” She is the cornerstone of North Shelby High School, a steadfast force among the students, teachers, and administrators. She leads with confidence and integrity, values she instills in those she influences. Amanda's dedication to MACC’s mission is evident in her efforts to guide students toward their future success. She often encourages them to transition from North Shelby High School to a program at MACC. Her ability to maintain strong, supportive relationships with students ensures they achieve their goals. The North Shelby School District, its students, and MACC are all incredibly fortunate to have Amanda Cook. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering support make her a truly deserving candidate for the MCCA Pathfinder of the Year Award.
In partnership with the North Shelby School District, MACC offers dual credit opportunities to high school students, a program in which Ms. Cook, the North Shelby High School Counselor, plays a pivotal role. Her unwavering belief in MACC’s dual credit program, meticulous attention to detail, exceptional communication skills, and steadfast determination to see students succeed is unmatched. A current MACC student and North Shelby High School graduate writes, “Ms. Cook is the person to go to if you have any problems. She helped me solidify plans and really encouraged me as I mapped out my future. Even after graduation, she still answered all the questions I had when I didn’t know who to go to. She is an amazing and extremely caring person.” She is the cornerstone of North Shelby High School, a steadfast force among the students, teachers, and administrators. She leads with confidence and integrity, values she instills in those she influences. Amanda's dedication to MACC’s mission is evident in her efforts to guide students toward their future success. She often encourages them to transition from North Shelby High School to a program at MACC. Her ability to maintain strong, supportive relationships with students ensures they achieve their goals. The North Shelby School District, its students, and MACC are all incredibly fortunate to have Amanda Cook. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering support make her a truly deserving candidate for the MCCA Pathfinder of the Year Award.
Trustee Leadership Award: Winners
Presented annually to a community college trustee whose work and leadership has substantially advanced the mission of community colleges. Winner will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Presented annually to a community college trustee whose work and leadership has substantially advanced the mission of community colleges. Winner will be honored at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Krystal Hargis | Nominated by Jefferson College
Board Member, Jefferson College
Ms. Krystal Hargis has served on the Jefferson College Board of Trustees in Hillsboro, Missouri, since 2001. She has served as Vice President of the Board and was Board President from 2009-2013. Ms. Hargis has served on the Board Administrative Team several times for faculty contract negotiations and assisting the College with improving faculty and administration relations.
Prior to retiring in 2017, Ms. Hargis worked for the Fox C-6 School District in Arnold, Missouri, as an educator in the gifted program. She succeeded in this role for more than thirty years.
Ms. Hargis’ experience teaching within a gifted program brought forth the need for additional college credit options for high school students. She volunteered her time to assist in the development of an early college program, College Accelerated Program (CAP), working cohesively with Jefferson College and the Fox C-6 School District. This program launched in Fall 2014 as one of the first in the State of Missouri to accommodate high achieving students.
Ms. Hargis proudly watched the first class of 19 students graduate in 2016 with their Associate of Arts degree while simultaneously graduating high school. Nearly a decade later, Jefferson College now graduates approximately 60 high school students with accelerated associate degrees each year. The program has expanded to include the Associate of Arts in Teaching and the Associate of Science in Biology, and includes opportunities for students at all eleven public high schools in the College’s service district. Ms. Hargis has continuously supported strengthening relationships with the K-12 school districts and growing dual credit/dual enrollment opportunities. This includes the support of technical/career training and college readiness, two areas that have led to increased access to higher education for high school graduates.
Finally, Ms. Hargis is extremely active in the community. She has lived in Arnold throughout her life and served on the Board of Education for the Fox C-6 School District for three years, including one year as President of the district’s Board. She has attended multiple ACCT conferences and has participated in advocacy with Missouri legislators on the College’s campus and in Jefferson City.
Because of Ms. Hargis’ extensive service to Jefferson College and our community, we feel she is an excellent candidate for this award.
Ms. Krystal Hargis has served on the Jefferson College Board of Trustees in Hillsboro, Missouri, since 2001. She has served as Vice President of the Board and was Board President from 2009-2013. Ms. Hargis has served on the Board Administrative Team several times for faculty contract negotiations and assisting the College with improving faculty and administration relations.
Prior to retiring in 2017, Ms. Hargis worked for the Fox C-6 School District in Arnold, Missouri, as an educator in the gifted program. She succeeded in this role for more than thirty years.
Ms. Hargis’ experience teaching within a gifted program brought forth the need for additional college credit options for high school students. She volunteered her time to assist in the development of an early college program, College Accelerated Program (CAP), working cohesively with Jefferson College and the Fox C-6 School District. This program launched in Fall 2014 as one of the first in the State of Missouri to accommodate high achieving students.
Ms. Hargis proudly watched the first class of 19 students graduate in 2016 with their Associate of Arts degree while simultaneously graduating high school. Nearly a decade later, Jefferson College now graduates approximately 60 high school students with accelerated associate degrees each year. The program has expanded to include the Associate of Arts in Teaching and the Associate of Science in Biology, and includes opportunities for students at all eleven public high schools in the College’s service district. Ms. Hargis has continuously supported strengthening relationships with the K-12 school districts and growing dual credit/dual enrollment opportunities. This includes the support of technical/career training and college readiness, two areas that have led to increased access to higher education for high school graduates.
Finally, Ms. Hargis is extremely active in the community. She has lived in Arnold throughout her life and served on the Board of Education for the Fox C-6 School District for three years, including one year as President of the district’s Board. She has attended multiple ACCT conferences and has participated in advocacy with Missouri legislators on the College’s campus and in Jefferson City.
Because of Ms. Hargis’ extensive service to Jefferson College and our community, we feel she is an excellent candidate for this award.
Jean Ehlmann | Nominated by St. Charles Community College
Secretary, Board of Trustees
St. Charles Community College is pleased to nominate Mrs. Jean Ehlmann for the Trustee Leadership Award. Jean has been a dedicated member of SCC’s Board of Trustees for nearly 30 years. Her first term began in 1996 and over her years of service, she has served as President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer.
Jean's main priority as a trustee is meeting the needs of students and the community. She works to ensure fiscal responsibility for the college and takes her responsibility to the community seriously.
Jean has been an integral part of the growth of St. Charles Community College. With her leadership, SCC has grown from one location to three with a fourth opening in Fall of 2025.
During Jean’s tenure, SCC has also grown its program offerings ensuring that the College is meeting the needs of the workforce and the community. We are pleased to recognize Jean’s commitment to the College, St. Charles County and the community with this nomination.
St. Charles Community College is pleased to nominate Mrs. Jean Ehlmann for the Trustee Leadership Award. Jean has been a dedicated member of SCC’s Board of Trustees for nearly 30 years. Her first term began in 1996 and over her years of service, she has served as President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer.
Jean's main priority as a trustee is meeting the needs of students and the community. She works to ensure fiscal responsibility for the college and takes her responsibility to the community seriously.
Jean has been an integral part of the growth of St. Charles Community College. With her leadership, SCC has grown from one location to three with a fourth opening in Fall of 2025.
During Jean’s tenure, SCC has also grown its program offerings ensuring that the College is meeting the needs of the workforce and the community. We are pleased to recognize Jean’s commitment to the College, St. Charles County and the community with this nomination.
Trent Skaggs | Nominated by Metropolitan Community College
Trustee
Metropolitan Community College (MCC) is proud to nominate Mr. Trent Skaggs for the 2024 MCCA Trustee Leadership Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions, unwavering dedication, and outstanding service to MCC. Trustee Skaggs has demonstrated exemplary leadership and commitment to the students and employees of MCC.
After faithfully serving on the Board for 12 years, and having served as Board President since 2016, Trustee Skaggs retired from his board seat in May 2024, at the conclusion of his second term. Trustee Skaggs has done an incredible job of guiding the College in our mission of preparing students, serving communities, and creating opportunities for all, and ensuring that the needs of our students and community drive every decision we make.
During his tenure, over fifty million dollars was raised for student scholarships and innovative programming. MCC opened five new buildings, remodeled eight student facilities, and oversaw the approval of several new academic and student support programs during his time as chair. These accomplishments are all a testament to the leadership and impact that Trustee Skaggs has had on the College.
With a reliably calm and steady demeanor, Trustee Skaggs has been quietly but competently leading the MCC community for years. His integrity, accountability, and passion for "doing the right thing" are evident in all his endeavors. He has been a steadfast advocate for MCC students, ensuring that the College stays true to its mission and core values. In addition to his internal contributions, Trustee Skaggs has actively engaged with the broader community and his work has strengthened MCC's relationships and enhanced our reputation.
It is rare that a college finds a board member as impactful as Trustee Skaggs. He is a remarkable individual whose contributions have significantly advanced the mission and vision of MCC. He will be missed at MCC and is very deserving of this award.
Metropolitan Community College (MCC) is proud to nominate Mr. Trent Skaggs for the 2024 MCCA Trustee Leadership Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions, unwavering dedication, and outstanding service to MCC. Trustee Skaggs has demonstrated exemplary leadership and commitment to the students and employees of MCC.
After faithfully serving on the Board for 12 years, and having served as Board President since 2016, Trustee Skaggs retired from his board seat in May 2024, at the conclusion of his second term. Trustee Skaggs has done an incredible job of guiding the College in our mission of preparing students, serving communities, and creating opportunities for all, and ensuring that the needs of our students and community drive every decision we make.
During his tenure, over fifty million dollars was raised for student scholarships and innovative programming. MCC opened five new buildings, remodeled eight student facilities, and oversaw the approval of several new academic and student support programs during his time as chair. These accomplishments are all a testament to the leadership and impact that Trustee Skaggs has had on the College.
With a reliably calm and steady demeanor, Trustee Skaggs has been quietly but competently leading the MCC community for years. His integrity, accountability, and passion for "doing the right thing" are evident in all his endeavors. He has been a steadfast advocate for MCC students, ensuring that the College stays true to its mission and core values. In addition to his internal contributions, Trustee Skaggs has actively engaged with the broader community and his work has strengthened MCC's relationships and enhanced our reputation.
It is rare that a college finds a board member as impactful as Trustee Skaggs. He is a remarkable individual whose contributions have significantly advanced the mission and vision of MCC. He will be missed at MCC and is very deserving of this award.
Excellence in Teaching Award: Finalists
Presented annually to outstanding instructors for work done during the previous year. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Presented annually to outstanding instructors for work done during the previous year. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Dr. Stephanie Witcher | Nominated by Crowder College
Communications Division Chair/Instructor
Stephanie’s leadership style is built on trust, fostering collaboration with both colleagues and students, and making sure that folks feel cared for while also challenged to be better. She trusts members of our department to use their expertise effectively to help Crowder students develop as learners, thinkers, leaders, and people. She also spurs her colleagues on, asking us our passions, goals, and making it their own goal to help, whether that be developing a new and interesting course or developing a new program. She challenges us to be our best and always believes in us. When I was hesitant about applying for a leadership position in a regional organization in our field, she encouraged me and helped me organize my schedule to allow it. When my spouse had a health scare, she did everything in her power to make sure we got the care we needed. Support like this makes teachers thrive; when we feel a deep sense of community, it helps us focus on being better teachers. Even in other departments, committees, and the non-stop work to achieve Crowder success, this faculty member takes every task in stride and continues to keep Crowder’s mission at the forefront. She challenges students to achieve their highest potential, and takes no crap if it isn’t their best effort. She teaches not only the curriculum but also models what it means to serve others through the work you do. She expects students to write a lot, to write well, and continue to improve as writers, readers, and thinkers throughout their course. And while she has high expectations and challenges students, she cares for them deeply as well. I’ve seen her encourage students with personal emergencies and work with them to make accommodations; caring about their learning, but also caring about them as people. I’ve seen her encourage students’ passions through writing projects about topics that are truly meaningful to them including baseball players writing about new professional baseball rules, or having students pick poems that mattered to them and then lead discussion on those poems. When I see what she does in the classroom, I want to be a better teacher.
Stephanie’s leadership style is built on trust, fostering collaboration with both colleagues and students, and making sure that folks feel cared for while also challenged to be better. She trusts members of our department to use their expertise effectively to help Crowder students develop as learners, thinkers, leaders, and people. She also spurs her colleagues on, asking us our passions, goals, and making it their own goal to help, whether that be developing a new and interesting course or developing a new program. She challenges us to be our best and always believes in us. When I was hesitant about applying for a leadership position in a regional organization in our field, she encouraged me and helped me organize my schedule to allow it. When my spouse had a health scare, she did everything in her power to make sure we got the care we needed. Support like this makes teachers thrive; when we feel a deep sense of community, it helps us focus on being better teachers. Even in other departments, committees, and the non-stop work to achieve Crowder success, this faculty member takes every task in stride and continues to keep Crowder’s mission at the forefront. She challenges students to achieve their highest potential, and takes no crap if it isn’t their best effort. She teaches not only the curriculum but also models what it means to serve others through the work you do. She expects students to write a lot, to write well, and continue to improve as writers, readers, and thinkers throughout their course. And while she has high expectations and challenges students, she cares for them deeply as well. I’ve seen her encourage students with personal emergencies and work with them to make accommodations; caring about their learning, but also caring about them as people. I’ve seen her encourage students’ passions through writing projects about topics that are truly meaningful to them including baseball players writing about new professional baseball rules, or having students pick poems that mattered to them and then lead discussion on those poems. When I see what she does in the classroom, I want to be a better teacher.
Ellen Aramburu | Nominated by East Central College
Assistant Professor of Spanish
In the classroom, Ellen strives to meet students where they are and helps them to find comfort in speaking a foreign language. She rose to the challenge COVID presented by continuously researching to find a software promoting learning in an online environment that is comparable to the classroom experience. Since that time, she has continued to build resources to give students the support they need for success. Her classroom is dynamic and engaging with student learning at the center. In the words of one of her students, "Although I will never try to learn a new language online again due to how challenging it was, I would do it again if I had Professor Ellen as my instructor. She is very organized, communicates well, and is extremely helpful". Ellen serves the ECC community through her continued commitment to Global Education at ECC. Annually she leads the planning for International Education Week activities and the International Day Event. Through these events she plays a pivotal role in bringing diversity and cultural insight to the campus.
In the classroom, Ellen strives to meet students where they are and helps them to find comfort in speaking a foreign language. She rose to the challenge COVID presented by continuously researching to find a software promoting learning in an online environment that is comparable to the classroom experience. Since that time, she has continued to build resources to give students the support they need for success. Her classroom is dynamic and engaging with student learning at the center. In the words of one of her students, "Although I will never try to learn a new language online again due to how challenging it was, I would do it again if I had Professor Ellen as my instructor. She is very organized, communicates well, and is extremely helpful". Ellen serves the ECC community through her continued commitment to Global Education at ECC. Annually she leads the planning for International Education Week activities and the International Day Event. Through these events she plays a pivotal role in bringing diversity and cultural insight to the campus.
Lindsay Steighorst | Nominated by Jefferson College
Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Nomination #1:
We nominate Lindsay Steighorst for a Faculty Award. Lindsay is a tenured Assistant Professor of Mathematics who has been teaching full time since the fall of 2017. Prior to that time she was an adjunct mathematics instructor for Jeffco for five years.
Lindsay has a solid command of her subject matter and strives to find multiple ways to present the concepts in understandable ways to her students. She maintains rigor while varying instruction to make it engaging and fun for students. The following student comments on her evaluations show that she welcomes questions and makes every effort to make sure all students understand the subject matter.
Lindsay makes it clear to her students that they come first in her priorities. She spends extra time getting to know each student individually to ensure they comprehend the topic at hand. She greets students during office hours to receive extra help and works in the math lab. Many students, including the ones below, testified to her compassionate and supportive education in a sample of student testimonials.
Lindsay uses feedback, including mid-semester surveys, to guide improvements in her courses. She also has creative ways of gauging student understanding. One student commented, “The thing my instructor did that was most helpful was the make a face rule. Instead of having to ask a question you could make a face and the instructor would go over the problem again.”
On one survey question students identified their favorite song or music. Then, for a College Algebra course, Lindsay would play some of their favorites before class started. She often has students poll in on Kahoot to respond to questions and sometimes uses hands-on activities related to math concepts.
Demonstrates concern for and sensitivity to the needs of students and others
Lindsay goes above and beyond to ensure students feel supported. She dedicates time for individual help and creates a welcoming environment for questions. One student commented that Lindsay “ took the time for me and made sure I had everything I needed throughout to be successful.” Another stated, “From communication, to lessons, to understanding her students' needs, she met every expectation and then some.”
In addition, Lindsay has been recognized several times in the College’s “Pat on the Back” program.
Lindsay’s impact on students is evidenced by her selection as Phi Theta Kappa Teacher of the Year for several years. One of her students commented, “Professor Steighorst is easily the best and most inspiring math teacher I have ever had. Undoubtedly her passion for one-on-one individuality and her understanding of the struggles that many college students face outside of school has cultivated this unforgettable class. She is not only a teacher, but a mentor in all [sic] sense of the word.”
Lindsay is very thoughtful in the self-reflection of her teaching abilities, and continually seeks ways to improve her courses through feedback from her students as well as participating in professional development. She has served on numerous College committees, and sought ways to increase “Pat on the Back” participation. She makes everyone on campus feel like an important part of the team.
Lindsay is a joyful inspiration to the Math Department. She assists in departmental assessments and previously served as the Dual Credit Liaison for Math. She currently serves as a mentor to adjunct math faculty and is the department’s representative to the “Missouri Math Advisory Committee.”
Lindsay presented her approach to student-centered instruction in a CTL session in the spring of 2023. She also revealed her online course design in a CTL event titled "Canvas Design: Faculty Speed Sharing" in the fall of 2023.
She teaches at the Arnold campus where she truly is the face of the campus - warm, upbeat, supportive, giving individual attention to each student and person she encounters.
As the above illustrates, Lindsay Steighorst is an ideal candidate for the Jefferson College Foundation Excellence in Teaching Award/MCCA Outstanding Achievement Award.
Nomination #2:
It is my honor to nominate Lindsay Steighorst, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, for the Outstanding Faculty Award for 2024. She has been a full-time faculty member in the Math department since 2017 where she teaches a wide variety of courses. She is also a constant presence in the Math Lab, helping students one-on-one with some of the most challenging classes Jefferson College has to offer. It is my pleasure to speak on her behalf.
Lindsay is a tireless student advocate, and they know it. One day, my honor students saw us talking before class. As soon as I walked in, they spent the next several minutes singing her praises. As honor students, they are not easily impressed. It’s a credit to her classroom manner and teaching style that they mark her as “one of the best teachers we ever had.” In the classroom Lindsay balances rigor and challenge with a warm and welcoming teaching style that helps students break through the fear and anxiety many of them face when tackling math, and they are all better for having been in her class.
Outside of the classroom, Lindsay has served on a number of committees including Employee Support, MO Math Pathways Task Force, Online Software Proctoring Task Force, and the Math Instructor Hiring Committee. In every instance, she has dedicated her time to contributing to the work of the college, and ensuring that what we do in our classrooms is what is best for our students’ long term success.
Another place where Lindsay shines is in her service to other faculty and staff. She has presented CTL sessions on Course Design and Best Practices, organizes and runs the annual Years of Service Celebrations, and conducts teaching evaluations for her fellow instructors. She has also participated in a teaching triangle and has served as a new faculty mentor. She is a constant source of positive support who frequently recognizes other instructors for their work formally through Pat on the Back nominations and informally in everyday conversations. It’s a common sight to see Lindsay encouraging and applauding her colleagues for the work they do. We are lucky to have her as a faculty member here at the Jefferson College and she is more than deserving of this year’s Outstanding Faculty Award.
Nomination #1:
We nominate Lindsay Steighorst for a Faculty Award. Lindsay is a tenured Assistant Professor of Mathematics who has been teaching full time since the fall of 2017. Prior to that time she was an adjunct mathematics instructor for Jeffco for five years.
Lindsay has a solid command of her subject matter and strives to find multiple ways to present the concepts in understandable ways to her students. She maintains rigor while varying instruction to make it engaging and fun for students. The following student comments on her evaluations show that she welcomes questions and makes every effort to make sure all students understand the subject matter.
- “I understood the material after (…) I asked her to explain something to me.”
- “She really was able to teach the subject in a way I understood and [that] didn't make me feel stupid [sic] when asking questions.”
Lindsay makes it clear to her students that they come first in her priorities. She spends extra time getting to know each student individually to ensure they comprehend the topic at hand. She greets students during office hours to receive extra help and works in the math lab. Many students, including the ones below, testified to her compassionate and supportive education in a sample of student testimonials.
- “This teacher is amazing! She does an exemplary job teaching and genuinely cares for her students and their education.”
- “She maintained an extremely positive attitude and helped us work through the many problems that we encountered during the course.”
- “She was very willing to help. It was clear she wanted me to be successful.”
Lindsay uses feedback, including mid-semester surveys, to guide improvements in her courses. She also has creative ways of gauging student understanding. One student commented, “The thing my instructor did that was most helpful was the make a face rule. Instead of having to ask a question you could make a face and the instructor would go over the problem again.”
On one survey question students identified their favorite song or music. Then, for a College Algebra course, Lindsay would play some of their favorites before class started. She often has students poll in on Kahoot to respond to questions and sometimes uses hands-on activities related to math concepts.
Demonstrates concern for and sensitivity to the needs of students and others
Lindsay goes above and beyond to ensure students feel supported. She dedicates time for individual help and creates a welcoming environment for questions. One student commented that Lindsay “ took the time for me and made sure I had everything I needed throughout to be successful.” Another stated, “From communication, to lessons, to understanding her students' needs, she met every expectation and then some.”
In addition, Lindsay has been recognized several times in the College’s “Pat on the Back” program.
Lindsay’s impact on students is evidenced by her selection as Phi Theta Kappa Teacher of the Year for several years. One of her students commented, “Professor Steighorst is easily the best and most inspiring math teacher I have ever had. Undoubtedly her passion for one-on-one individuality and her understanding of the struggles that many college students face outside of school has cultivated this unforgettable class. She is not only a teacher, but a mentor in all [sic] sense of the word.”
Lindsay is very thoughtful in the self-reflection of her teaching abilities, and continually seeks ways to improve her courses through feedback from her students as well as participating in professional development. She has served on numerous College committees, and sought ways to increase “Pat on the Back” participation. She makes everyone on campus feel like an important part of the team.
Lindsay is a joyful inspiration to the Math Department. She assists in departmental assessments and previously served as the Dual Credit Liaison for Math. She currently serves as a mentor to adjunct math faculty and is the department’s representative to the “Missouri Math Advisory Committee.”
Lindsay presented her approach to student-centered instruction in a CTL session in the spring of 2023. She also revealed her online course design in a CTL event titled "Canvas Design: Faculty Speed Sharing" in the fall of 2023.
She teaches at the Arnold campus where she truly is the face of the campus - warm, upbeat, supportive, giving individual attention to each student and person she encounters.
As the above illustrates, Lindsay Steighorst is an ideal candidate for the Jefferson College Foundation Excellence in Teaching Award/MCCA Outstanding Achievement Award.
Nomination #2:
It is my honor to nominate Lindsay Steighorst, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, for the Outstanding Faculty Award for 2024. She has been a full-time faculty member in the Math department since 2017 where she teaches a wide variety of courses. She is also a constant presence in the Math Lab, helping students one-on-one with some of the most challenging classes Jefferson College has to offer. It is my pleasure to speak on her behalf.
Lindsay is a tireless student advocate, and they know it. One day, my honor students saw us talking before class. As soon as I walked in, they spent the next several minutes singing her praises. As honor students, they are not easily impressed. It’s a credit to her classroom manner and teaching style that they mark her as “one of the best teachers we ever had.” In the classroom Lindsay balances rigor and challenge with a warm and welcoming teaching style that helps students break through the fear and anxiety many of them face when tackling math, and they are all better for having been in her class.
Outside of the classroom, Lindsay has served on a number of committees including Employee Support, MO Math Pathways Task Force, Online Software Proctoring Task Force, and the Math Instructor Hiring Committee. In every instance, she has dedicated her time to contributing to the work of the college, and ensuring that what we do in our classrooms is what is best for our students’ long term success.
Another place where Lindsay shines is in her service to other faculty and staff. She has presented CTL sessions on Course Design and Best Practices, organizes and runs the annual Years of Service Celebrations, and conducts teaching evaluations for her fellow instructors. She has also participated in a teaching triangle and has served as a new faculty mentor. She is a constant source of positive support who frequently recognizes other instructors for their work formally through Pat on the Back nominations and informally in everyday conversations. It’s a common sight to see Lindsay encouraging and applauding her colleagues for the work they do. We are lucky to have her as a faculty member here at the Jefferson College and she is more than deserving of this year’s Outstanding Faculty Award.
Emily Armstrong | Nominated by Metropolitan Community College — Longview Campus
Spanish Instructor
I nominate Emily Armstrong as MCC’s finalist for MCCA’s Excellence in Teaching Award. Emily deserves this honor for many reasons.
First, Emily serves the district and the Longview community in several ways, each of which impacts the student experience at MCC for the better. For example, she is her discipline’s coordinator. Her role impacts students beyond her classroom because she purposely works to give students exposure to foreign languages other than Spanish. In the past year, she has worked to hire a German instructor and a French instructor. This diversity gives students options as they consider their career goals and transfer to a four-year institution. Additionally, Emily stepped up and now serves as Longview’s Phi Theta Kappa faculty sponsor. In this role, Emily gets to support students that might not normally take a Spanish class. This year, Emily made the trip to Jefferson City to support the Phi Theta Kappa scholarship winners at their luncheon. Lastly, Emily has been extremely active on Longview’s Center for Teaching and Learning committee. Through this committee, she regularly contributes to programming and promotional content; has led talks, including a “Love and Learn” book event; and constantly looks for new ways the CTL can support faculty.
Second, Emily volunteers for roles that many faculty tend to avoid. For instance, Emily served as a mentor and office mate for Longview’s Fulbright Scholar. Emily volunteered for this role. Emily invited our scholar and her family into her home and, on occasion, drove our scholar throughout the Metro when she needed a ride.
Third, Emily actively seeks to extend the impact of her teaching beyond the classroom. Since our return from Covid, Emily has taken two student groups to Oaxaca, Mexico. Eighteen students went in June 2023 and another 19 students went in January 2024. These experiences grant students an opportunity to immerse themselves in a foreign culture. Emily’s groups attended the Becari Spanish Academy in Oaxaca where they attended small group Spanish classes for 4-5 hours each morning and then participated in cultural excursions in the afternoons where they took cooking class and salsa lessons, visited ruins and art workshops, and listened to speakers from indigenous communities. A trip to Salamanca, Spain is scheduled for January 2025. None of this would have happened without Emily’s extensive planning and dedication to a high-quality student experience.
Lastly, Emily is an excellent classroom instructor, and her student experience reports bear this out. In her reports, students had this to say about Emily:
But she’s not easy:
A passion for teaching, empathetic towards her students, fair and rigorous, a supportive and engaging colleague - it is for these reasons that I feel Emily Armstrong is most deserving of MCCA’s Excellence in Teaching Award.
I nominate Emily Armstrong as MCC’s finalist for MCCA’s Excellence in Teaching Award. Emily deserves this honor for many reasons.
First, Emily serves the district and the Longview community in several ways, each of which impacts the student experience at MCC for the better. For example, she is her discipline’s coordinator. Her role impacts students beyond her classroom because she purposely works to give students exposure to foreign languages other than Spanish. In the past year, she has worked to hire a German instructor and a French instructor. This diversity gives students options as they consider their career goals and transfer to a four-year institution. Additionally, Emily stepped up and now serves as Longview’s Phi Theta Kappa faculty sponsor. In this role, Emily gets to support students that might not normally take a Spanish class. This year, Emily made the trip to Jefferson City to support the Phi Theta Kappa scholarship winners at their luncheon. Lastly, Emily has been extremely active on Longview’s Center for Teaching and Learning committee. Through this committee, she regularly contributes to programming and promotional content; has led talks, including a “Love and Learn” book event; and constantly looks for new ways the CTL can support faculty.
Second, Emily volunteers for roles that many faculty tend to avoid. For instance, Emily served as a mentor and office mate for Longview’s Fulbright Scholar. Emily volunteered for this role. Emily invited our scholar and her family into her home and, on occasion, drove our scholar throughout the Metro when she needed a ride.
Third, Emily actively seeks to extend the impact of her teaching beyond the classroom. Since our return from Covid, Emily has taken two student groups to Oaxaca, Mexico. Eighteen students went in June 2023 and another 19 students went in January 2024. These experiences grant students an opportunity to immerse themselves in a foreign culture. Emily’s groups attended the Becari Spanish Academy in Oaxaca where they attended small group Spanish classes for 4-5 hours each morning and then participated in cultural excursions in the afternoons where they took cooking class and salsa lessons, visited ruins and art workshops, and listened to speakers from indigenous communities. A trip to Salamanca, Spain is scheduled for January 2025. None of this would have happened without Emily’s extensive planning and dedication to a high-quality student experience.
Lastly, Emily is an excellent classroom instructor, and her student experience reports bear this out. In her reports, students had this to say about Emily:
- “[Emily] made everything very interesting and interactive. I enjoyed how involved she made us feel to the culture.”
- “I love how open the communication was. If I had a question, it was answered quickly and sufficiently.”
- “Lingua Meetings were a great implementation within this course, and it was a great experience interacting with people of the culture and an experience worth sharing and mentioning. You don't get to meet someone from Antigua, Guatemala every day!”
- “There were many resources made available to us, the schedule was crystal clear, and the homework was challenging without being miserable.”
- “She makes lectures fun and is very kind and empathetic.”
- “She is a very fair grader, and you can see the passion she has for the culture.”
- “As a native speaker I was impressed at how involved she tries to be in the culture and how she never stops learning about Hispanic [sic] countries.”
But she’s not easy:
- “[Emily] was great, she just gives a ton of homework.”
A passion for teaching, empathetic towards her students, fair and rigorous, a supportive and engaging colleague - it is for these reasons that I feel Emily Armstrong is most deserving of MCCA’s Excellence in Teaching Award.
Korey Byers | Nominated by Mineral Area College
Biology Instructor
Since joining MAC as an adjunct faculty member in 2016, then transitioning to full-time faculty in the Science Department, Korey Byers has exemplified the qualities of an outstanding educator. He’s passionate about science and teaching. His commitment to continuous learning is evident as he attends biology conferences to stay at the forefront of his field. He's not only passionate about learning science, he consistently attends technology conferences and generously shares content with his colleagues. He consistently works to ensure students receive the most up to date information as well as enhancing delivery in both his traditional and online classrooms. His dedication has not gone unnoticed by hIs peers who voted him “Teacher of the Year” in the spring of 2024, describing him as “smart, intuitive and great to work with.” Recognizing the importance of faculty representation and advocacy, Korey has dedicated time and energy to serving as Faculty Forum President for two years in a row. He’s tackled critical issues like Academic Integrity Policy and Faculty Salary Schedules, demonstrating his holistic approach to college education and his desire to improve the academic environment for all. Korey is a lifelong learner; continuing to take courses to improve his knowledge as he works to make life sciences engaging for his community college students.
Since joining MAC as an adjunct faculty member in 2016, then transitioning to full-time faculty in the Science Department, Korey Byers has exemplified the qualities of an outstanding educator. He’s passionate about science and teaching. His commitment to continuous learning is evident as he attends biology conferences to stay at the forefront of his field. He's not only passionate about learning science, he consistently attends technology conferences and generously shares content with his colleagues. He consistently works to ensure students receive the most up to date information as well as enhancing delivery in both his traditional and online classrooms. His dedication has not gone unnoticed by hIs peers who voted him “Teacher of the Year” in the spring of 2024, describing him as “smart, intuitive and great to work with.” Recognizing the importance of faculty representation and advocacy, Korey has dedicated time and energy to serving as Faculty Forum President for two years in a row. He’s tackled critical issues like Academic Integrity Policy and Faculty Salary Schedules, demonstrating his holistic approach to college education and his desire to improve the academic environment for all. Korey is a lifelong learner; continuing to take courses to improve his knowledge as he works to make life sciences engaging for his community college students.
Barbie Underwood | Nominated by Moberly Area Community College
Associate Professor
Barbie holds a Master of Social Work degree and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She is in her 20th year as a full-time instructor at MACC. Barbie’s teaching philosophy goes beyond the subject of sociology, she works to give students critical skills to be able to navigate through life. Students have said, “Your class has opened my life to want to make a difference… You have helped me in more ways than you know.” “Barbie is such an amazing teacher – she really makes us think about issues in our world.” “Barbie always hears us and we feel like we can say anything. She creates a safe, supportive classroom.” Barbie places high value on creating a learning environment with high expectations and resources for students to be successful. She is committed to the mission of MACC and exemplifies the principles of access and opportunity.
Barbie holds a Master of Social Work degree and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She is in her 20th year as a full-time instructor at MACC. Barbie’s teaching philosophy goes beyond the subject of sociology, she works to give students critical skills to be able to navigate through life. Students have said, “Your class has opened my life to want to make a difference… You have helped me in more ways than you know.” “Barbie is such an amazing teacher – she really makes us think about issues in our world.” “Barbie always hears us and we feel like we can say anything. She creates a safe, supportive classroom.” Barbie places high value on creating a learning environment with high expectations and resources for students to be successful. She is committed to the mission of MACC and exemplifies the principles of access and opportunity.
Cassie Cordray | Nominated by North Central Missouri College
Teacher Education Instructor
Cassie is a “stunning” instructor. Her work to grow the Teacher Education program has been impressive over the last several years. In the classroom, Cassie is innovative in her teaching techniques. She shares her real-world stories and experiences with her students. Her work with students in an advisory capacity is excellent as well. Looking down the hallway of 2nd floor Geyer, there is almost always a student sitting in Cassie’s office, arranging a schedule, discussing observation hours, or making plans for transfer. We are continually impressed by the way Cassie manages her nearly 100 advisees. She has gone above and beyond in her reach to grow education not just at NCMC but in our service region. This past year, Cassie organized the first Future Teacher Education day on campus, inviting regional high school students to learn more about the Teacher Ed program. In hosting that day, she also leveraged current students to interact with future students. Cassie’s co-curricular work also extends to the SMSTA organization, that has an active presence on our campus. As a colleague, Cassie makes tremendous contributions. She regularly serves in leadership capacities. This year she chaired the Curriculum committee (with excellent communication and organization). She also currently serves on the Assessment Committee. During our assessment consultations, Cassie is quick to offer feedback that is useful, meaningful, and encouraging.
Cassie is a “stunning” instructor. Her work to grow the Teacher Education program has been impressive over the last several years. In the classroom, Cassie is innovative in her teaching techniques. She shares her real-world stories and experiences with her students. Her work with students in an advisory capacity is excellent as well. Looking down the hallway of 2nd floor Geyer, there is almost always a student sitting in Cassie’s office, arranging a schedule, discussing observation hours, or making plans for transfer. We are continually impressed by the way Cassie manages her nearly 100 advisees. She has gone above and beyond in her reach to grow education not just at NCMC but in our service region. This past year, Cassie organized the first Future Teacher Education day on campus, inviting regional high school students to learn more about the Teacher Ed program. In hosting that day, she also leveraged current students to interact with future students. Cassie’s co-curricular work also extends to the SMSTA organization, that has an active presence on our campus. As a colleague, Cassie makes tremendous contributions. She regularly serves in leadership capacities. This year she chaired the Curriculum committee (with excellent communication and organization). She also currently serves on the Assessment Committee. During our assessment consultations, Cassie is quick to offer feedback that is useful, meaningful, and encouraging.
Dane Galloway | Nominated by Ozarks Technical Community College
Instructor - English
Dane Galloway has dedicated 28 years to shaping minds at OTC. Dane’s journey with the college started in 1996 when he taught his first English course at the Northtown Mall - an old shopping mall that was a temporary OTC location in the early days for the college. He became a full-time English instructor in 2001 after serving as an academic advisor for the college. Dane chose to become an English instructor because he loves reading and writing and he hopes to instill that love in others. Kindness is at the core of everything Dane does within the college. He is always considering his students, strives to know what is best for them and then uses his skills to serve them.
Dane Galloway has dedicated 28 years to shaping minds at OTC. Dane’s journey with the college started in 1996 when he taught his first English course at the Northtown Mall - an old shopping mall that was a temporary OTC location in the early days for the college. He became a full-time English instructor in 2001 after serving as an academic advisor for the college. Dane chose to become an English instructor because he loves reading and writing and he hopes to instill that love in others. Kindness is at the core of everything Dane does within the college. He is always considering his students, strives to know what is best for them and then uses his skills to serve them.
Dr. Garrett Foster | Nominated by St. Charles Community College
Faculty Member
St. Charles Community College is pleased to recommend Dr. Garrett Foster for the Excellence in Teaching award at the Missouri Community College Association annual conference.
Dr. Foster has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to both students and the college community at St. Charles Community College. His exemplary service and initiative are evident across multiple key areas.
Notably, Dr. Foster has made significant contributions as a member of the Curriculum Committee for the academic year 2023-24, continuing into 2024-25. His active involvement with the Modern Campus Curriculum Software Implementation team underscores his proactive approach to enhancing academic processes.
Beyond committee responsibilities, Dr. Foster has been a steadfast presence at student and faculty/staff events, illustrating his genuine investment in campus life and community engagement. His regular attendance as a guest at President's Council meetings further highlights his dedication to institutional dialogue and development.
Dr. Foster's commitment to student success is exemplified by his highly attended office hours in the Engineering department. He assures that there are no other Engineering courses scheduled during the midday class period, or typical lunchtime, and holds his office hours in the Engineering classroom. This initiative not only showcases his availability and support for students but also his proactive engagement in improving the student experience within his department.
Moreover, Dr. Foster's approach to program evaluation and improvement consistently prioritizes the student experience. His dedication to analyzing feedback and implementing meaningful adjustments has undoubtedly contributed to the success and satisfaction of our students. He can be found in his office far more hours than required or expected each week and is always willing to collaborate or lend his knowledge toward brainstorming for the greater good of the department or division.
In conclusion, Dr. Foster embodies the qualities of an outstanding faculty member: leadership, commitment, and a genuine passion for education. His invaluable contributions to our college community make him a deserving candidate for the Excellence in Teaching award.
St. Charles Community College is pleased to recommend Dr. Garrett Foster for the Excellence in Teaching award at the Missouri Community College Association annual conference.
Dr. Foster has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to both students and the college community at St. Charles Community College. His exemplary service and initiative are evident across multiple key areas.
Notably, Dr. Foster has made significant contributions as a member of the Curriculum Committee for the academic year 2023-24, continuing into 2024-25. His active involvement with the Modern Campus Curriculum Software Implementation team underscores his proactive approach to enhancing academic processes.
Beyond committee responsibilities, Dr. Foster has been a steadfast presence at student and faculty/staff events, illustrating his genuine investment in campus life and community engagement. His regular attendance as a guest at President's Council meetings further highlights his dedication to institutional dialogue and development.
Dr. Foster's commitment to student success is exemplified by his highly attended office hours in the Engineering department. He assures that there are no other Engineering courses scheduled during the midday class period, or typical lunchtime, and holds his office hours in the Engineering classroom. This initiative not only showcases his availability and support for students but also his proactive engagement in improving the student experience within his department.
Moreover, Dr. Foster's approach to program evaluation and improvement consistently prioritizes the student experience. His dedication to analyzing feedback and implementing meaningful adjustments has undoubtedly contributed to the success and satisfaction of our students. He can be found in his office far more hours than required or expected each week and is always willing to collaborate or lend his knowledge toward brainstorming for the greater good of the department or division.
In conclusion, Dr. Foster embodies the qualities of an outstanding faculty member: leadership, commitment, and a genuine passion for education. His invaluable contributions to our college community make him a deserving candidate for the Excellence in Teaching award.
Lindsay Fox | Nominated by St. Louis Community College — Forest Park
Faculty – Respiratory Care
Lindsay Fox is an exceptional faculty member who leads the St. Louis Community College Respiratory Care program. She was instrumental in creating and working through the approval of the Bachelor of Science degree in Respiratory Care that is now offered at the college. She is constantly working to make sure that her coursework is using best practices in teaching students very hands-on techniques and how to think critically. She makes herself available to students and along with her colleagues have provided a "prepare for Success" day that helps incoming students know about all of the resources available to them as well as the ways they can best prepare for coursework. She participates on a variety of committees and has taken on leadership roles in her committee work. Outside of her direct work for the college, she also serves on the Commission on Accreditation in Respiratory care as a site visitor, board commission, chair of the Accreditation Standards, Policies, and Bylaws committee, and secretary of the board. She is also an advisor to the Respiratory Care Club. Lindsay exemplifies excellence in teaching by all of the ways she leads in her program and with her interactions with students.
Lindsay Fox is an exceptional faculty member who leads the St. Louis Community College Respiratory Care program. She was instrumental in creating and working through the approval of the Bachelor of Science degree in Respiratory Care that is now offered at the college. She is constantly working to make sure that her coursework is using best practices in teaching students very hands-on techniques and how to think critically. She makes herself available to students and along with her colleagues have provided a "prepare for Success" day that helps incoming students know about all of the resources available to them as well as the ways they can best prepare for coursework. She participates on a variety of committees and has taken on leadership roles in her committee work. Outside of her direct work for the college, she also serves on the Commission on Accreditation in Respiratory care as a site visitor, board commission, chair of the Accreditation Standards, Policies, and Bylaws committee, and secretary of the board. She is also an advisor to the Respiratory Care Club. Lindsay exemplifies excellence in teaching by all of the ways she leads in her program and with her interactions with students.
Kristen Henning | Nominated by State Fair Community College
Theatre Program Coordinator
Kristen Henning has been a tremendous example and influence on SFCC students but also on the faculty as a whole. Kristen moved from numerous years of adjunct teaching into an interim position as coordinator for the theater program to officially being named as the Program Coordinator for Theater. In her short time in her formal role, she was honored as the students’ selection as Faculty of the Year, represented faculty at spring commencement, and has been highlighted for her achievements in various social media. Kristen has led a strong theater program to provide education and experiential opportunities to fine art students. She has focused on the creativity, talent and imagination in her approach to education for theatre students at SFCC. Her program provides professional-quality instruction and productions. This year she presented three full-length plays, a children’s show, and student-directed one-act plays. Her students have a reputation for having plenty of opportunities to gain valuable experience because of her abilities to engage all her students in the theater events.
In addition to her teaching, she has responsibilities to provide the educational space for her students. Kristen oversees SFCC’s Stauffacher Theatre, a proscenium arch theatre with 24 fly lines, computerized lighting, a versatile acoustic system, fully-equipped scene shop, large modern dressing rooms, and a makeup area and costume shop, which seats 239 for an exceptional audience experience. She also operates the Thompson O’Sullivan Studio Theatre focusing on intimate performances and allowing for stage and seating configurations to change into venues such as theatre in the round, corner seating, or arena seating for 80 to 90.
When highlighted by peers, it is an honor; however, when selected as faculty of the year by the student body, it notes a true level of distinction. Excerpts from the students stress her accomplishments and attributes that deserve recognition for excellence in teaching. Highlighting a few student comments:
There were too many comments to note them all; however, Kristen’s educational philosophy is also a critical aspect to show her teaching success and her passion for excellence in teaching and learning:
My educational philosophy centers on the conviction that every person, regardless of their background and experience, can achieve whatever they set their minds to. The value I provide to my students’ success is that I strive to invigorate in them the love of learning
by actively working alongside them and providing individualized support. If students dream it, they can achieve it—I’ll be right there for them each step of the way.
Characteristics noted by her Dean, Associate Dean, and fellow faculty are a simple snapshot of the quality instructor Kristen is. Some of those excepts:
It is clear SFCC is extremely proud to have faculty of Kristen’s quality, and we believe a first year faculty member with her success definitely highlights the qualities and attributes of the intention of this award. Kristen Henning embodies excellence in teaching and learning, and SFCC is proud to nominate her for your consideration.
Kristen Henning has been a tremendous example and influence on SFCC students but also on the faculty as a whole. Kristen moved from numerous years of adjunct teaching into an interim position as coordinator for the theater program to officially being named as the Program Coordinator for Theater. In her short time in her formal role, she was honored as the students’ selection as Faculty of the Year, represented faculty at spring commencement, and has been highlighted for her achievements in various social media. Kristen has led a strong theater program to provide education and experiential opportunities to fine art students. She has focused on the creativity, talent and imagination in her approach to education for theatre students at SFCC. Her program provides professional-quality instruction and productions. This year she presented three full-length plays, a children’s show, and student-directed one-act plays. Her students have a reputation for having plenty of opportunities to gain valuable experience because of her abilities to engage all her students in the theater events.
In addition to her teaching, she has responsibilities to provide the educational space for her students. Kristen oversees SFCC’s Stauffacher Theatre, a proscenium arch theatre with 24 fly lines, computerized lighting, a versatile acoustic system, fully-equipped scene shop, large modern dressing rooms, and a makeup area and costume shop, which seats 239 for an exceptional audience experience. She also operates the Thompson O’Sullivan Studio Theatre focusing on intimate performances and allowing for stage and seating configurations to change into venues such as theatre in the round, corner seating, or arena seating for 80 to 90.
When highlighted by peers, it is an honor; however, when selected as faculty of the year by the student body, it notes a true level of distinction. Excerpts from the students stress her accomplishments and attributes that deserve recognition for excellence in teaching. Highlighting a few student comments:
- Not only helps us with course topics, but also helps us with life skills such as coping mechanisms and work ethic
- has a certain power when it comes to helping students with their personal growth, and is so supportive and proud of everything students accomplish
- dedication is paramount to help our interest in classes.
- changed my life while talking it through along with a couple mental breakdowns, I realized I set myself on the wrong path.
- pulls out the passion from students
There were too many comments to note them all; however, Kristen’s educational philosophy is also a critical aspect to show her teaching success and her passion for excellence in teaching and learning:
My educational philosophy centers on the conviction that every person, regardless of their background and experience, can achieve whatever they set their minds to. The value I provide to my students’ success is that I strive to invigorate in them the love of learning
by actively working alongside them and providing individualized support. If students dream it, they can achieve it—I’ll be right there for them each step of the way.
Characteristics noted by her Dean, Associate Dean, and fellow faculty are a simple snapshot of the quality instructor Kristen is. Some of those excepts:
- Student Engagement: Actively engages students in the learning process, making classes interactive and stimulating.
- Creative Leadership: Leads successful theater productions that showcase students’ talents and receive positive recognition from the community.
- Mentorship: Provides exceptional mentorship, helping students with career guidance, portfolio development, and personal growth.
- Community Involvement: Actively participates in community theater projects, fostering a strong connection between the college and the local community.
- Inclusive Environment: Creates an inclusive and supportive classroom environment, encouraging diversity and ensuring all students feel valued.
- Student Success: Demonstrates a track record of student success, with students going on to achieve significant accomplishments in theater and related fields.
It is clear SFCC is extremely proud to have faculty of Kristen’s quality, and we believe a first year faculty member with her success definitely highlights the qualities and attributes of the intention of this award. Kristen Henning embodies excellence in teaching and learning, and SFCC is proud to nominate her for your consideration.
Corey Reynolds | Nominated by Three Rivers College
Behavioral Health Support Program Coordinator
Corey Reynolds leads the Behavioral Support Program at Three Rivers, which offers trauma-informed training in the areas of substance use, prevention, and mental health. He is diligent and has a strong work ethic to stay current within his discipline. He is strong role model for community involvement, organizing and participating in numerous events with community partners every year, while encouraging his students to be involved as well. In his years-long and constant assessment of his program, Mr. Reynolds has identified and executed numerous improvements. At the same time, he provides a listening ear and an open heart to the needs of his students and colleagues. He goes to extreme lengths to give his students skills that will make them valuable additions to their career field and community. Graduates of this accelerated 18-month program could expect to work in areas such as substance abuse treatment, mental healthcare, disability services, and educational settings. Mr. Reynolds was selected as the 2023-24 recipient of the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching for his continued work growing and improving the Behavioral Support Program.
Corey Reynolds leads the Behavioral Support Program at Three Rivers, which offers trauma-informed training in the areas of substance use, prevention, and mental health. He is diligent and has a strong work ethic to stay current within his discipline. He is strong role model for community involvement, organizing and participating in numerous events with community partners every year, while encouraging his students to be involved as well. In his years-long and constant assessment of his program, Mr. Reynolds has identified and executed numerous improvements. At the same time, he provides a listening ear and an open heart to the needs of his students and colleagues. He goes to extreme lengths to give his students skills that will make them valuable additions to their career field and community. Graduates of this accelerated 18-month program could expect to work in areas such as substance abuse treatment, mental healthcare, disability services, and educational settings. Mr. Reynolds was selected as the 2023-24 recipient of the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching for his continued work growing and improving the Behavioral Support Program.
Administrative Professional Leadership Award: Finalists
Presented annually to a member of the MCCA's Administrative Professional Department who has demonstrated exemplary leadership practices within their college and throughout the community. Recipients exceed expectations for campus involvement and for advancing the mission of community colleges throughout the state and have exemplary records of service in professional and civic organizations. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Presented annually to a member of the MCCA's Administrative Professional Department who has demonstrated exemplary leadership practices within their college and throughout the community. Recipients exceed expectations for campus involvement and for advancing the mission of community colleges throughout the state and have exemplary records of service in professional and civic organizations. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Robin Wolven | Nominated by Crowder College
Public Access Librarian
This remarkable individual embodies the very essence of Crowder College, radiating our core values in every endeavor. With unwavering dedication, she elevates the college experience for employees, students, and community members alike. She is a force for good, tirelessly ensuring that everyone feels valued. Whether it’s a faculty member seeking guidance or a curious student with a thousand questions, they deliver service with a megawatt smile. Step into her classroom, and you’ll witness magic unfold. She doesn’t just teach; she ignites minds, sparks curiosity and fuels dreams. Her passion for education is contagious, leaving an indelible mark on every student lucky enough to learn from her. Need help navigating the labyrinth of knowledge? Look no further. She’s the secret sauce behind late-night study sessions, whispering encouragement as students chase their academic dreams. Her positivity is like a solar flare, warming chilly corridors and brightening gloomy Mondays. And her work ethic? It’s the engine propelling community-driven initiatives like her book club—because she knows that together, we soar higher.
This remarkable individual embodies the very essence of Crowder College, radiating our core values in every endeavor. With unwavering dedication, she elevates the college experience for employees, students, and community members alike. She is a force for good, tirelessly ensuring that everyone feels valued. Whether it’s a faculty member seeking guidance or a curious student with a thousand questions, they deliver service with a megawatt smile. Step into her classroom, and you’ll witness magic unfold. She doesn’t just teach; she ignites minds, sparks curiosity and fuels dreams. Her passion for education is contagious, leaving an indelible mark on every student lucky enough to learn from her. Need help navigating the labyrinth of knowledge? Look no further. She’s the secret sauce behind late-night study sessions, whispering encouragement as students chase their academic dreams. Her positivity is like a solar flare, warming chilly corridors and brightening gloomy Mondays. And her work ethic? It’s the engine propelling community-driven initiatives like her book club—because she knows that together, we soar higher.
Dr. Robyn Walter | Nominated by East Central College
Vice President, Academic Affairs
I am pleased to nominate Dr. Robyn Walter for the MCCA Administrative/Professional award. Dr. Walter serves as our Chief Academic Officer, and I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition. Since 2018, she has served as the Chief Academic Officer (Vice President for Academic Affairs) at East Central College. In this role, she has provided academic leadership to the institution, led the initiative to secure funding and approval for a consortium-based program in Respiratory Therapy (involving five of Missouri’s community colleges), leads the council of Chief Academic Officers for MCCA, and is active statewide on a range of issues affecting community colleges and our students.
Across the state, Dr. Walter has formed partnerships and relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. She is a leader among peer CAOs and now chairs the CAO Council. She serves or has served on statewide groups focused on issues such as transfer and articulation, adult learners, and equity. As East Central College and others identified respiratory care as a critical need, she refused to take no for an answer when it came to developing a consortium-based solution. Her singular efforts led to the decision by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care to change its stance and consider approval of a consortium-based program. We have now identified our consortium partners have secured a federal training grant totaling $5.5 million through the U.S. Department of Labor.
In 2023, due to her leadership, East Central College received a $2.1 million Title III Strengthening Institutions Grant from the U.S. Department of Education, to improve retention, persistence, and completion, especially among lower-achieving populations at our institution. Dr. Walter led this grant initiative and, despite the highly competitive nature of this program, was able to deliver with approval on our first submission. Throughout that process, I witnessed again her ability to lead others, delegate appropriately, empower those involved, and maintain focus on the overarching goal.
Dr. Walter was selected to participate in a two-year cohort of Chief Academic Officers from around the country. This cohort, sponsored by the Gardner Institute, included CAOs from a wide range of sectors. She became a leader in this cohort and has brought this national perspective back to Missouri.
Dr. Walter serves on the board for MOCAN, is a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission, and is active in the community both personally and professionally. Prior to her work as vice president, she led ECC’s nursing program and continues to serve as a mentor and resource for our health careers faculty and staff. She is active in the community both professionally and personally. With over 20 years of experience in the community college sector, she is well qualified and richly deserving of this recognition.
—Dr. Jon Bauer, President
I am pleased to nominate Dr. Robyn Walter for the MCCA Administrative/Professional award. Dr. Walter serves as our Chief Academic Officer, and I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition. Since 2018, she has served as the Chief Academic Officer (Vice President for Academic Affairs) at East Central College. In this role, she has provided academic leadership to the institution, led the initiative to secure funding and approval for a consortium-based program in Respiratory Therapy (involving five of Missouri’s community colleges), leads the council of Chief Academic Officers for MCCA, and is active statewide on a range of issues affecting community colleges and our students.
Across the state, Dr. Walter has formed partnerships and relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. She is a leader among peer CAOs and now chairs the CAO Council. She serves or has served on statewide groups focused on issues such as transfer and articulation, adult learners, and equity. As East Central College and others identified respiratory care as a critical need, she refused to take no for an answer when it came to developing a consortium-based solution. Her singular efforts led to the decision by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care to change its stance and consider approval of a consortium-based program. We have now identified our consortium partners have secured a federal training grant totaling $5.5 million through the U.S. Department of Labor.
In 2023, due to her leadership, East Central College received a $2.1 million Title III Strengthening Institutions Grant from the U.S. Department of Education, to improve retention, persistence, and completion, especially among lower-achieving populations at our institution. Dr. Walter led this grant initiative and, despite the highly competitive nature of this program, was able to deliver with approval on our first submission. Throughout that process, I witnessed again her ability to lead others, delegate appropriately, empower those involved, and maintain focus on the overarching goal.
Dr. Walter was selected to participate in a two-year cohort of Chief Academic Officers from around the country. This cohort, sponsored by the Gardner Institute, included CAOs from a wide range of sectors. She became a leader in this cohort and has brought this national perspective back to Missouri.
Dr. Walter serves on the board for MOCAN, is a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission, and is active in the community both personally and professionally. Prior to her work as vice president, she led ECC’s nursing program and continues to serve as a mentor and resource for our health careers faculty and staff. She is active in the community both professionally and personally. With over 20 years of experience in the community college sector, she is well qualified and richly deserving of this recognition.
—Dr. Jon Bauer, President
Lora Warner | Nominated by Jefferson College
Director of Workforce Training & Employment Services
Nomination #1:
Lora Warner is someone I would like to nominate for Certified Professional Staff Member of the Year. She has put a lot of effort into developing and growing Jefferson College overall in addition to her own department, WES, which she has worked hard to enhance and grow. To improve the educational experience for students, Lora makes an effort to cultivate connections with other departments within Jefferson College. Since she is aware that today's students, especially adult learners, have many facets, she always seems to be considering how to create a support structure for our students that takes a holistic approach, focusing on the individual rather than simply the student. She is committed to promoting the success of all students, not just her own. Lora actively exhibits Jefferson College's Mission and Vision.
Nomination #2:
It gives me great pleasure to nominate Lora Warner for the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Foundation. Lora is a vital voice at the table whenever it comes to student progress. It's likely that Lora is involved with, and most likely heading, any institutional committee, task force, work group, subcommittee, or special initiative that aims to improve student outcomes and the student experience. Currently, Lora serves as co-chair of the Student Learning and Support Committee, co-chair of the Recruitment Work Group, co-chair of the Strategic Enrollment Management and Retention Committee, and a member of the College's Student Journey Mapping Team.
In addition to overseeing several grant programs and continuously looking for ways to bring in revenue for Jefferson College, Lora works with educators, employers, and the WES team to improve the educational experience and identify community needs. When adding another activity to her already full plate, Lora is heard saying, "If I don't champion this, who will?!" Lora has a positive effect on the atmosphere at work at Jefferson College. She believes it's important to support her coworkers, mentor staff, and invest in students. Lora deserves to be honored for her exceptional contributions to Jefferson College for all of the aforementioned reasons—and many more!
Nomination #1:
Lora Warner is someone I would like to nominate for Certified Professional Staff Member of the Year. She has put a lot of effort into developing and growing Jefferson College overall in addition to her own department, WES, which she has worked hard to enhance and grow. To improve the educational experience for students, Lora makes an effort to cultivate connections with other departments within Jefferson College. Since she is aware that today's students, especially adult learners, have many facets, she always seems to be considering how to create a support structure for our students that takes a holistic approach, focusing on the individual rather than simply the student. She is committed to promoting the success of all students, not just her own. Lora actively exhibits Jefferson College's Mission and Vision.
Nomination #2:
It gives me great pleasure to nominate Lora Warner for the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Foundation. Lora is a vital voice at the table whenever it comes to student progress. It's likely that Lora is involved with, and most likely heading, any institutional committee, task force, work group, subcommittee, or special initiative that aims to improve student outcomes and the student experience. Currently, Lora serves as co-chair of the Student Learning and Support Committee, co-chair of the Recruitment Work Group, co-chair of the Strategic Enrollment Management and Retention Committee, and a member of the College's Student Journey Mapping Team.
In addition to overseeing several grant programs and continuously looking for ways to bring in revenue for Jefferson College, Lora works with educators, employers, and the WES team to improve the educational experience and identify community needs. When adding another activity to her already full plate, Lora is heard saying, "If I don't champion this, who will?!" Lora has a positive effect on the atmosphere at work at Jefferson College. She believes it's important to support her coworkers, mentor staff, and invest in students. Lora deserves to be honored for her exceptional contributions to Jefferson College for all of the aforementioned reasons—and many more!
Patricia Amick | Nominated by Metropolitan Community College
AVC Financial Services & Chief Financial Officer
Patricia Amick is a distinguished professional who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and management in her role at Metropolitan Community College (MCC). Her extensive experience and commitment to excellence make her an outstanding candidate for the MCCA Administrative Professional Award. Patricia's contributions span over twenty years in financial management, project management, systems management, budget/financial planning, and business analysis, significantly impacting the college's operations and strategic direction. Patricia Amick’s dedication, leadership, and professional excellence have significantly contributed to the success and improvement of Metropolitan Community College’s administrative and financial operations. Her work exemplifies the highest standards of administrative professionalism, making her an exemplary nominee for the MCCA Administrative Professional Award.
Patricia Amick is a distinguished professional who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and management in her role at Metropolitan Community College (MCC). Her extensive experience and commitment to excellence make her an outstanding candidate for the MCCA Administrative Professional Award. Patricia's contributions span over twenty years in financial management, project management, systems management, budget/financial planning, and business analysis, significantly impacting the college's operations and strategic direction. Patricia Amick’s dedication, leadership, and professional excellence have significantly contributed to the success and improvement of Metropolitan Community College’s administrative and financial operations. Her work exemplifies the highest standards of administrative professionalism, making her an exemplary nominee for the MCCA Administrative Professional Award.
Racheal Starbird | Nominated by Mineral Area College
ITC Coordinator
You won’t find a more energetic, enthusiastic, college activities coordinator than Racheal Starbird! Her constant smile and positive attitude are infectious. She was voted “Professional Employee of the Year” by her peers who appreciate her unparalleled energy and describe her as someone who “always brings light and energy” to campus! Racheal’s impact began immediately in 2023 as she showed students there is more to college than the classroom. She organized “welcome greeters” at key points on campus at the beginning of each semester to ensure students could find their classrooms and have a comfortable start. She ensured student athletes were recognized for exemplary performance by organizing campus send offs for our athletic teams who made it to national competitions. Demonstrating her responsiveness to student needs, she implemented a diverse array of opportunities from craft events to holiday celebrations to create opportunities for students to relax, make memories, and build community. Her school spirit is second to none; she inspires her colleagues as much as our students. Racheal has been promoted to another Coordinator role on campus where she continues to impress with her creative ideas, attention to detail, and excellent knowledge of all things MAC.
You won’t find a more energetic, enthusiastic, college activities coordinator than Racheal Starbird! Her constant smile and positive attitude are infectious. She was voted “Professional Employee of the Year” by her peers who appreciate her unparalleled energy and describe her as someone who “always brings light and energy” to campus! Racheal’s impact began immediately in 2023 as she showed students there is more to college than the classroom. She organized “welcome greeters” at key points on campus at the beginning of each semester to ensure students could find their classrooms and have a comfortable start. She ensured student athletes were recognized for exemplary performance by organizing campus send offs for our athletic teams who made it to national competitions. Demonstrating her responsiveness to student needs, she implemented a diverse array of opportunities from craft events to holiday celebrations to create opportunities for students to relax, make memories, and build community. Her school spirit is second to none; she inspires her colleagues as much as our students. Racheal has been promoted to another Coordinator role on campus where she continues to impress with her creative ideas, attention to detail, and excellent knowledge of all things MAC.
Amy Hager | Nominated by Moberly Area Community College
Director - Financial Aid Office
Amy Hager is a long-time (33 years) dedicated and supportive leader at MACC and she is a tireless statewide and national advocate for student financial aid at community colleges. In 2024, she was awarded the Most Valuable Professional (MVP) by the National Association of Financial Aid Professionals (NASFAA). Amy has volunteered for her state, regional, and national associations. That includes serving as the president, treasurer, and chair of the leadership development committee at the Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid Personnel (MASFAP). She has also held various roles at the Midwest Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (MASFAA), such as the Missouri state delegate and a conference presenter, and served on NASFAA’s advocacy network and pipeline, and was a volunteer on NASFAA’s 2024 Conference Task Force. Amy is dedicated to continued growth and excellence in her profession, and has recently earned her Certified Financial Aid Administrator (FAAC) credential through NASFAA. Amy is a dynamic professional who is committed to strong leadership on campus, and at the State and National levels!
Amy Hager is a long-time (33 years) dedicated and supportive leader at MACC and she is a tireless statewide and national advocate for student financial aid at community colleges. In 2024, she was awarded the Most Valuable Professional (MVP) by the National Association of Financial Aid Professionals (NASFAA). Amy has volunteered for her state, regional, and national associations. That includes serving as the president, treasurer, and chair of the leadership development committee at the Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid Personnel (MASFAP). She has also held various roles at the Midwest Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (MASFAA), such as the Missouri state delegate and a conference presenter, and served on NASFAA’s advocacy network and pipeline, and was a volunteer on NASFAA’s 2024 Conference Task Force. Amy is dedicated to continued growth and excellence in her profession, and has recently earned her Certified Financial Aid Administrator (FAAC) credential through NASFAA. Amy is a dynamic professional who is committed to strong leadership on campus, and at the State and National levels!
Dr. Kristen Alley | Nominated by North Central Missouri College
Vice President of Student Affairs
Dr. Kristen Alley takes on many responsibilities in her role as Vice President of Student Affairs, but they all revolve around our focus on putting students first. You can oftentimes find her dropping everything to meet with a student, visiting with the Student Senate President about changes around campus, and even hopping into the Patch the Pirate mascot suit. Dr. Alley stays very engaged with compliance and serves as the Title IX Coordinator where compliance is constantly changing. She also oversees all of our student service areas, and she is very supportive of her Directors and staff. Under her tenure, she has overseen significant changes to our Financial Aid processes, Registrar's office, and housing. It is not uncommon for her to get a call at 2:00 a.m. about a student concern and her driving in to help. Even though she is a vice president, she is still "boots on the ground" and does what needs to be done to see our students succeed. She puts her heart into NCMC and our students first.
Dr. Kristen Alley takes on many responsibilities in her role as Vice President of Student Affairs, but they all revolve around our focus on putting students first. You can oftentimes find her dropping everything to meet with a student, visiting with the Student Senate President about changes around campus, and even hopping into the Patch the Pirate mascot suit. Dr. Alley stays very engaged with compliance and serves as the Title IX Coordinator where compliance is constantly changing. She also oversees all of our student service areas, and she is very supportive of her Directors and staff. Under her tenure, she has overseen significant changes to our Financial Aid processes, Registrar's office, and housing. It is not uncommon for her to get a call at 2:00 a.m. about a student concern and her driving in to help. Even though she is a vice president, she is still "boots on the ground" and does what needs to be done to see our students succeed. She puts her heart into NCMC and our students first.
Tara Hathcock | Nominated by Ozarks Technical Community College
Director of Student Success - Health Sciences
Tara Hathcock serves as the Director of Student Success for Health Sciences. At age 18, Tara earned a certificate in radiologic technology and from there she continued her career in the medical field before joining OTC five years ago. Tara utilizes her vast experience in the medical field to impart crucial knowledge to the navigators she leads and the students she serves. Her combined knowledge from higher education and the medical field allows her and her team to successfully guide students on their journeys through college and into their careers.
Tara Hathcock serves as the Director of Student Success for Health Sciences. At age 18, Tara earned a certificate in radiologic technology and from there she continued her career in the medical field before joining OTC five years ago. Tara utilizes her vast experience in the medical field to impart crucial knowledge to the navigators she leads and the students she serves. Her combined knowledge from higher education and the medical field allows her and her team to successfully guide students on their journeys through college and into their careers.
Andrea Compton | Nominated by St. Charles Community College
Assistant Vice President
St. Charles Community College is pleased to recommend Andrea Compton for the Administrative Professional Leadership Award. Andrea showcases her leadership skills in her ability to champion new ideas and initiatives that foster a culture of innovation and creativity within her team. Andrea embraces collaboration and communication and encourages new ways of thinking that create broader visions and better solutions throughout the SCC campus community.
Andea has embraced Open Education and Open Educational Resources (OER) at SCC. She frequently provides support and advice in the advancement of OER initiatives. She actively participated in and completed the Regional Leaders of Open Education program and remains a strong advocate for open education and a more accessible educational environment for students. Her passion and dedication show in her approach to advancing and improving innovative practices that bring affordable resources to students.
Andrea has a knack for creating long-term solutions and initiatives. She consistently seeks creative solutions that enhance student support while maintaining high educational quality. Her can-do attitude reflects her genuine care for the people she works with and the students she serves. Her quiet energy and excellent leadership skills show in all that she does and make her an excellent candidate for this award.
As one colleague said, “working with Andrea is like being in a yoga class; even when the world is in chaos, she remains kind, balanced, and even-tempered, enabling her team to stay calm during stressful times.
St. Charles Community College is pleased to recommend Andrea Compton for the Administrative Professional Leadership Award. Andrea showcases her leadership skills in her ability to champion new ideas and initiatives that foster a culture of innovation and creativity within her team. Andrea embraces collaboration and communication and encourages new ways of thinking that create broader visions and better solutions throughout the SCC campus community.
Andea has embraced Open Education and Open Educational Resources (OER) at SCC. She frequently provides support and advice in the advancement of OER initiatives. She actively participated in and completed the Regional Leaders of Open Education program and remains a strong advocate for open education and a more accessible educational environment for students. Her passion and dedication show in her approach to advancing and improving innovative practices that bring affordable resources to students.
Andrea has a knack for creating long-term solutions and initiatives. She consistently seeks creative solutions that enhance student support while maintaining high educational quality. Her can-do attitude reflects her genuine care for the people she works with and the students she serves. Her quiet energy and excellent leadership skills show in all that she does and make her an excellent candidate for this award.
As one colleague said, “working with Andrea is like being in a yoga class; even when the world is in chaos, she remains kind, balanced, and even-tempered, enabling her team to stay calm during stressful times.
Dr. D’Andre Braddix | Nominated by St. Louis Community College
Executive Director – Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Dr. Braddix consistently goes above and beyond for students and employees. While his work focuses on the DEIB space, his impact expands well beyond that. He operates well at the district level and dedicates time to campus-based initiatives. Examples of this include his empathetic, supportive, and informed response to the recent free expression challenges at one of our campuses; his work to reform and launch various employee resource groups across the district; his approach to removing bias from the faculty search and hiring process; his support for increased college awareness of identity months; and his focus on making STLCC a best place to work. In addition to this, he will often engage in delicate situations with employees and students, encouraging courageous and supportive conversations. Dr. Braddix is frequently considered a voice of reason, a problem solver, and a conflict manager. Through all this, he is overwhelmingly successful at building rapport and trust with faculty, staff, and students. Dr. Braddix has passion and excitement for his work, which is demonstrated through the impact he has made throughout the STLCC community.
Dr. Braddix consistently goes above and beyond for students and employees. While his work focuses on the DEIB space, his impact expands well beyond that. He operates well at the district level and dedicates time to campus-based initiatives. Examples of this include his empathetic, supportive, and informed response to the recent free expression challenges at one of our campuses; his work to reform and launch various employee resource groups across the district; his approach to removing bias from the faculty search and hiring process; his support for increased college awareness of identity months; and his focus on making STLCC a best place to work. In addition to this, he will often engage in delicate situations with employees and students, encouraging courageous and supportive conversations. Dr. Braddix is frequently considered a voice of reason, a problem solver, and a conflict manager. Through all this, he is overwhelmingly successful at building rapport and trust with faculty, staff, and students. Dr. Braddix has passion and excitement for his work, which is demonstrated through the impact he has made throughout the STLCC community.
Vicki Kettenacker | Nominated by St. Louis Community College
Business Manager - Academic Affairs
Vicki is a long-time, exceptional employee at St. Louis Community College. She has worked in progressively more responsible roles due to her competence, collegiality, and incredible work ethic. She currently serves as the Business Manager for the largest unit within the college, Academic Affairs. She is excellent in this role and is a key contributor to the Academic Affairs Leadership Team. Because of Vicki’s expertise, institutional knowledge, and follow through, she is often asked to assist on committees/teams, provide training to existing and new employees, and answer questions on policy, procedure, and practice. Her colleagues think enough of her that she was recently acknowledged as the professional employee of the year for her location.
Vicki is a long-time, exceptional employee at St. Louis Community College. She has worked in progressively more responsible roles due to her competence, collegiality, and incredible work ethic. She currently serves as the Business Manager for the largest unit within the college, Academic Affairs. She is excellent in this role and is a key contributor to the Academic Affairs Leadership Team. Because of Vicki’s expertise, institutional knowledge, and follow through, she is often asked to assist on committees/teams, provide training to existing and new employees, and answer questions on policy, procedure, and practice. Her colleagues think enough of her that she was recently acknowledged as the professional employee of the year for her location.
Jill Steffens | Nominated by State Fair Community College
Navigator Manager
This award nomination was written by her peers and subordinates to highlight her exemplary leadership practices.
Job Performance:
Jill has been an amazing advocate not only for her Health Sciences pod but for all Navigators. She goes above and beyond for student success and her team. She has a high level of integrity and always has the student as her focus. She encourages and advocates for her team; is knowledgeable and possesses great leadership abilities; and shares information, resources, and answers without making staff feel inadequate. She stays positive even in the most negative situations. She is understanding and honest. Jill never hesitates to outreach on our behalf to find answers to questions and works very hard for solutions to our problems. She does what she says and says what she does. When you approach Jill with an issue, she will respond in a timely manner with an answer or a plan of action. She will seek out answers she doesn’t know and keeps you informed of progress with any project. Jill makes you feel comfortable enough to go to her with any questions, concerns or general thoughts. This doesn’t mean that she doesn’t know how to say “no” or tell you that you need to do something differently…she definitely does…but Jill is able to do so with respect and makes you feel heard. Jill sees how hard her team works and shows her appreciation for having a team that is willing to go the extra steps for student success and models this behavior herself. Jill takes on a lot of big projects—orientation, job fairs, etc.—and makes sure project timelines are met while balance her job duties as the in program Nursing Navigator and Navigator Manager for Health Sciences. Jill’s job performance is beyond amazing and she keeps a positive attitude while dealing with a pod full of “outgoing” personalities. The pride she takes in this institution and the work that she presents is commendable. Jill’s ability to lead by example, work ethic, and guidance make her more than worthy of this award.
Improvement of Self and Others:
Jill has a positive attitude through many stressful situations and can provide a calming presence in a navigator storm. Jill encourages her team to pursue professional development opportunities and looks for her own opportunities to improve her management and Navigator skills. Jill is an
amazing Navigator Manager who not only garners respect and appreciation from her own Health Sciences pod but from other SFCC faculty and staff.
This award nomination was written by her peers and subordinates to highlight her exemplary leadership practices.
Job Performance:
Jill has been an amazing advocate not only for her Health Sciences pod but for all Navigators. She goes above and beyond for student success and her team. She has a high level of integrity and always has the student as her focus. She encourages and advocates for her team; is knowledgeable and possesses great leadership abilities; and shares information, resources, and answers without making staff feel inadequate. She stays positive even in the most negative situations. She is understanding and honest. Jill never hesitates to outreach on our behalf to find answers to questions and works very hard for solutions to our problems. She does what she says and says what she does. When you approach Jill with an issue, she will respond in a timely manner with an answer or a plan of action. She will seek out answers she doesn’t know and keeps you informed of progress with any project. Jill makes you feel comfortable enough to go to her with any questions, concerns or general thoughts. This doesn’t mean that she doesn’t know how to say “no” or tell you that you need to do something differently…she definitely does…but Jill is able to do so with respect and makes you feel heard. Jill sees how hard her team works and shows her appreciation for having a team that is willing to go the extra steps for student success and models this behavior herself. Jill takes on a lot of big projects—orientation, job fairs, etc.—and makes sure project timelines are met while balance her job duties as the in program Nursing Navigator and Navigator Manager for Health Sciences. Jill’s job performance is beyond amazing and she keeps a positive attitude while dealing with a pod full of “outgoing” personalities. The pride she takes in this institution and the work that she presents is commendable. Jill’s ability to lead by example, work ethic, and guidance make her more than worthy of this award.
Improvement of Self and Others:
Jill has a positive attitude through many stressful situations and can provide a calming presence in a navigator storm. Jill encourages her team to pursue professional development opportunities and looks for her own opportunities to improve her management and Navigator skills. Jill is an
amazing Navigator Manager who not only garners respect and appreciation from her own Health Sciences pod but from other SFCC faculty and staff.
Amanda Quaite | Nominated by Three Rivers College
Director, Student Accounts & Billing Services
Amanda Quaite has been a higher education professional for more than 10 years. She received a Master of Arts in Leadership and Organizational Management from Hannibal LaGrange University. She also holds an Associate of Arts in Elementary Education from Three Rivers College, a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Hannibal LaGrange University, and a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Central Methodist University. Ms. Quaite joined the Three Rivers College staff in January of 2014 as the Off Campus and Online Coordinator for the College Store, and in April of 2016, assumed the role of Director of Student Accounts. Ms. Quaite has also been an adjunct instructor for Three Rivers College since 2017. Since moving to the Office of Student Accounts, she has continually brought great ideas forward for improving the payment and billing process for Three Rivers students. She was instrumental in the implementation of the college’s tiered billing process. Ms. Quaite was also able to draw upon her experience in the College Store to be influential on the development of the resource fee. These two changes, implemented in 2021, completely changed the billing process at Three Rivers, providing a new level of simplification and transparency for the college’s students. Ms. Quaite currently serves as the chair for the Student Request for Balance Forgiveness Committee at Three Rivers, and she is a member of the Commencement Planning Committee and the PATH Committee for at risk students. Ms. Quaite also volunteers at several college events: she has been a coordinator for the Three Rivers Alumni Pancake Breakfast since 2022, a volunteer for Three Rivers hosted rodeo since 2017, a volunteer for the Three Rivers Endowment Trust Run 4 the Arts since 2021, and an Endowment Trust Trivia judge since 2020. Outside of the college, Ms. Quaite is a member of the Full Gospel Church in East Prairie, Mo., where she also volunteers. When asked about her accomplishments at Three Rivers she said, “Watching our students graduate is the highlight of my job, seeing what they have worked so hard for come to fruition and knowing that I played a small part in making that happen."
Amanda Quaite has been a higher education professional for more than 10 years. She received a Master of Arts in Leadership and Organizational Management from Hannibal LaGrange University. She also holds an Associate of Arts in Elementary Education from Three Rivers College, a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Hannibal LaGrange University, and a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Central Methodist University. Ms. Quaite joined the Three Rivers College staff in January of 2014 as the Off Campus and Online Coordinator for the College Store, and in April of 2016, assumed the role of Director of Student Accounts. Ms. Quaite has also been an adjunct instructor for Three Rivers College since 2017. Since moving to the Office of Student Accounts, she has continually brought great ideas forward for improving the payment and billing process for Three Rivers students. She was instrumental in the implementation of the college’s tiered billing process. Ms. Quaite was also able to draw upon her experience in the College Store to be influential on the development of the resource fee. These two changes, implemented in 2021, completely changed the billing process at Three Rivers, providing a new level of simplification and transparency for the college’s students. Ms. Quaite currently serves as the chair for the Student Request for Balance Forgiveness Committee at Three Rivers, and she is a member of the Commencement Planning Committee and the PATH Committee for at risk students. Ms. Quaite also volunteers at several college events: she has been a coordinator for the Three Rivers Alumni Pancake Breakfast since 2022, a volunteer for Three Rivers hosted rodeo since 2017, a volunteer for the Three Rivers Endowment Trust Run 4 the Arts since 2021, and an Endowment Trust Trivia judge since 2020. Outside of the college, Ms. Quaite is a member of the Full Gospel Church in East Prairie, Mo., where she also volunteers. When asked about her accomplishments at Three Rivers she said, “Watching our students graduate is the highlight of my job, seeing what they have worked so hard for come to fruition and knowing that I played a small part in making that happen."
Classified Staff Achievement Award: Finalists
Presented annually to a member of the MCCA's Classified Staff Department who has had a positive impact on their college and the department. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Presented annually to a member of the MCCA's Classified Staff Department who has had a positive impact on their college and the department. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Daniel Brower | Nominated by Crowder College
Computer Technician
As a computer technician at Crowder, Daniel has consistently demonstrated exceptional skills, discretion, and professionalism. He has always prioritized customer service. Whether it's troubleshooting a complex issue, installing new software, or just helping you figure out something you couldn't on your own, Daniel ensures that our faculty, staff, and student's needs are met promptly and efficiently. His patience and ability to explain technical issues in understandable terms have been greatly appreciated by all who have interacted with him. Whether you are a tech wiz who needs some specialized assistance or "more of a paper person" as one faculty member wrote, Daniel is always willing to discuss your problem in a way that lets you know he respects and understands how frustrating technology can be and wants to help you be successful. No matter how the day is going or how others are behaving, you can always count on Daniel to bring his best. He often diffuses situations with his calm and friendly demeanor and can "chat the stress right out of you" as one staff member stated. Daniel has also shown a remarkable commitment to supporting our students. He often goes above and beyond to assist students with their technical needs, ensuring minimal disruption to their studies. His dedication to helping students succeed demonstrates his understanding that these technical issues can be a barrier to our students' success, and takes pride in being able to lessen that barrier for so many. Daniel is passionate about creating a positive and productive work environment. He is always ready to lend a hand to his colleagues and share his expertise. His positive attitude and team spirit have a profound impact on the morale of our team. What really sets Daniel apart is his passion for equity and inclusion. At both of our most recent college wide professional development events, Daniel really impressed people with his willingness to engage in difficult conversations and look for ways to improve the college. He always maintainted the highest level of discretion and professionalism in discussing sensitive topics and still managed to help others understand where we have room for improvement as an organization. Daniel is an observant individuals who constantly seeks out ways to improve fairness and help everyone feel like they belong. His impassioned speech about justice at one of the events inspired many of us to think critically about the kind of experience we want employees and students to have at Crowder. Personally, I think that Daniel is the perfect nominee for this award because of his exceptional service, dedication to students, contribution to a positive work environment, and passion for equity and inclusion.
As a computer technician at Crowder, Daniel has consistently demonstrated exceptional skills, discretion, and professionalism. He has always prioritized customer service. Whether it's troubleshooting a complex issue, installing new software, or just helping you figure out something you couldn't on your own, Daniel ensures that our faculty, staff, and student's needs are met promptly and efficiently. His patience and ability to explain technical issues in understandable terms have been greatly appreciated by all who have interacted with him. Whether you are a tech wiz who needs some specialized assistance or "more of a paper person" as one faculty member wrote, Daniel is always willing to discuss your problem in a way that lets you know he respects and understands how frustrating technology can be and wants to help you be successful. No matter how the day is going or how others are behaving, you can always count on Daniel to bring his best. He often diffuses situations with his calm and friendly demeanor and can "chat the stress right out of you" as one staff member stated. Daniel has also shown a remarkable commitment to supporting our students. He often goes above and beyond to assist students with their technical needs, ensuring minimal disruption to their studies. His dedication to helping students succeed demonstrates his understanding that these technical issues can be a barrier to our students' success, and takes pride in being able to lessen that barrier for so many. Daniel is passionate about creating a positive and productive work environment. He is always ready to lend a hand to his colleagues and share his expertise. His positive attitude and team spirit have a profound impact on the morale of our team. What really sets Daniel apart is his passion for equity and inclusion. At both of our most recent college wide professional development events, Daniel really impressed people with his willingness to engage in difficult conversations and look for ways to improve the college. He always maintainted the highest level of discretion and professionalism in discussing sensitive topics and still managed to help others understand where we have room for improvement as an organization. Daniel is an observant individuals who constantly seeks out ways to improve fairness and help everyone feel like they belong. His impassioned speech about justice at one of the events inspired many of us to think critically about the kind of experience we want employees and students to have at Crowder. Personally, I think that Daniel is the perfect nominee for this award because of his exceptional service, dedication to students, contribution to a positive work environment, and passion for equity and inclusion.
Jon Noelker | Nominated by East Central College
Learning Center Specialist
"The mission of East Central College is “Empowering students and enriching communities through education.” Jon Noelker has embodied this mission statement for over three decades.
Jon dedicated his career to student service, education, and community. After retiring as a HS Biology teacher of over 30 years, he continues to dedicate his time as a full-time Learning Center Specialist. Jon has been at ECC as a Specialist and adjunct faculty for over 25 years. He always puts students first and is willing to jump in and help in any capacity. He has taught Falcon Seminar, Biology, Ecology, and various math courses over the years for ECC. Jon is so dedicated to helping our students he even took Accounting, Calculus I, and Economics courses to help fill the gaps and assist our students because we had no tutors in those subjects in our Learning Center.
Our annual TLC satisfaction surveys never fail to garner reviews for Jon too, with comments like ""I never would have succeeded in my math course if it wasn't for Mr. Noelker."" ""Jon just has a way of explaining things that make sense."" “Jon is always in a good mood; offering smiles and well wishes to everyone he comes across. He always tries his hardest when assisting students, and any time a student needs help, he is always happy to help. I would even argue that he is actually enthusiastic and eager about helping someone in need. As someone who sometimes struggles with asking for help, it's nice to know that Jon will always happily answer any question I may have. He is happy to break down any confusions a student may have, no matter how long it may take or how much effort it takes. He genuinely just wants to help students succeed.” And these are just a few of the hundreds of quotes received over the years from students that Jon has helped. Since 2019, Jon has documented over 1,788 tutoring sessions with 522 students, and this number will continue to grow.
While Jon’s tutoring numbers are exceptional, they only begin to touch the surface of contributions he has made to the ECC Community. Jon is actively engaged in our Summer Bridge programming, which helps students prepare for and/or test out of developmental math courses. Jon facilitates the summer long programming, helps students prepare for the upcoming semester and become more comfortable with mathematics. He tutors community members of all ages, ranging from elementary, middle, and high school math and science to ACT prep, to Praxis tutoring to NCLEX tutoring, Jon does it all! We are incredibly fortunate to have Jon Noelker as part the ECC team.
"The mission of East Central College is “Empowering students and enriching communities through education.” Jon Noelker has embodied this mission statement for over three decades.
Jon dedicated his career to student service, education, and community. After retiring as a HS Biology teacher of over 30 years, he continues to dedicate his time as a full-time Learning Center Specialist. Jon has been at ECC as a Specialist and adjunct faculty for over 25 years. He always puts students first and is willing to jump in and help in any capacity. He has taught Falcon Seminar, Biology, Ecology, and various math courses over the years for ECC. Jon is so dedicated to helping our students he even took Accounting, Calculus I, and Economics courses to help fill the gaps and assist our students because we had no tutors in those subjects in our Learning Center.
Our annual TLC satisfaction surveys never fail to garner reviews for Jon too, with comments like ""I never would have succeeded in my math course if it wasn't for Mr. Noelker."" ""Jon just has a way of explaining things that make sense."" “Jon is always in a good mood; offering smiles and well wishes to everyone he comes across. He always tries his hardest when assisting students, and any time a student needs help, he is always happy to help. I would even argue that he is actually enthusiastic and eager about helping someone in need. As someone who sometimes struggles with asking for help, it's nice to know that Jon will always happily answer any question I may have. He is happy to break down any confusions a student may have, no matter how long it may take or how much effort it takes. He genuinely just wants to help students succeed.” And these are just a few of the hundreds of quotes received over the years from students that Jon has helped. Since 2019, Jon has documented over 1,788 tutoring sessions with 522 students, and this number will continue to grow.
While Jon’s tutoring numbers are exceptional, they only begin to touch the surface of contributions he has made to the ECC Community. Jon is actively engaged in our Summer Bridge programming, which helps students prepare for and/or test out of developmental math courses. Jon facilitates the summer long programming, helps students prepare for the upcoming semester and become more comfortable with mathematics. He tutors community members of all ages, ranging from elementary, middle, and high school math and science to ACT prep, to Praxis tutoring to NCLEX tutoring, Jon does it all! We are incredibly fortunate to have Jon Noelker as part the ECC team.
Karla Mason | Nominated by Jefferson College
Cashier
Not only is Karla always a kind and welcoming face when seen around campus, her genuine care speaks volumes of the type of Viking she is. Karla can be seen lending an extra hand at most events on campus and cares about connecting with students. She is a kind and empathetic face for students when dealing with financial matters, she is patient with making sure people fully understand the process and she goes above and beyond to answer questions. Karla will follow up, check in, and always give individual care to students and co-workers on business matters. She also brightens one’s day when spoken to or seen on campus.
Not only is Karla always a kind and welcoming face when seen around campus, her genuine care speaks volumes of the type of Viking she is. Karla can be seen lending an extra hand at most events on campus and cares about connecting with students. She is a kind and empathetic face for students when dealing with financial matters, she is patient with making sure people fully understand the process and she goes above and beyond to answer questions. Karla will follow up, check in, and always give individual care to students and co-workers on business matters. She also brightens one’s day when spoken to or seen on campus.
Susan Chiappone | Nominated by Metropolitan Community College
Senior Executive Administrative Assistant
It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Susan Chiappone for the MCCA Classified Staff Achievement Award. Susan's dedication, professionalism, and exemplary service to the Missouri Community Colleges have significantly impacted both MCC-Maple Woods and MCC Penn Valley
campuses. Her contributions have been instrumental in enhancing the efficiency and community spirit within our institutions.
Susan is highly responsive to the needs of the campus communities she serves. She consistently completes her work promptly, ensuring that administrative functions run smoothly and efficiently. Her commitment to the professional development of her colleagues, particularly new employees, is evident through her coordination of a comprehensive training program tailored to the needs of new administrative assistants and her provision of ongoing support and mentorship. Additionally, she actively participates in professional development sessions sponsored by the National Association for Presidents’ Assistants in Higher Education, where she also leads affinity groups at the national level.
Susan is proactive in seeking out new grants and funding opportunities, successfully researching and writing applications that bring essential resources to our campuses. Her efforts have significantly contributed to the financial health and growth of our programs. She excels in coordinating campus events that promote community engagement, such as co-chairing the MCC Family Day at the Basketball game and organizing major campus visits like the luncheon and program for 57 legislators and community members at the Advanced Technical Skills Institute, as well as co-coordinating the governor’s visit.
Susan provides exceptional support in scheduling travel for students and administrators, including organizing visits to lawmakers' offices and the White House in Washington, D.C. She ensures that students are well-prepared with pre-travel meetings that cover essential details, precautions, and emergency plans. Her expertise in event planning was crucial for the 50th anniversary of the Maple Woods Vet Tech Program, which attracted over 5,000 guests and raised more than $36,000. She also co-coordinated presidential interviews and campus-wide events, meticulously handling travel arrangements and pre-event preparations.
Susan regularly coordinates speaking engagements for administrators, preparing detailed PowerPoint presentations, setting up rehearsals, and managing audio-visual needs. Her attention to detail ensures that every event runs flawlessly. She represents the president at various community events and volunteers for numerous activities, including with the Northland Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Gladstone Chamber of Commerce, and local school districts. Her involvement strengthens our institution's ties with the community.
Susan provides invaluable support by proofreading and editing documents for administrative professionals and conducting accurate research for presentations. Her ability to utilize US Census Data and other sources ensures that our information is reliable and precise. Her commitment extends beyond standard working hours, often working evenings and weekends to support college and community events. Her unwavering dedication is a testament to her passion for her work and her community.
Susan is also known for recognizing and appreciating the work of others, having nominated several colleagues for national, state, and local awards. Her nominations have resulted in seven NISOD Award winners and two MCCA Award winners. Susan Chiappone embodies the qualities of an outstanding staff member and leader. Her dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts make her an ideal candidate for the MCCA Classified Staff Achievement Award. It is an honor to recognize her contributions and recommend her for this prestigious award.
It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Susan Chiappone for the MCCA Classified Staff Achievement Award. Susan's dedication, professionalism, and exemplary service to the Missouri Community Colleges have significantly impacted both MCC-Maple Woods and MCC Penn Valley
campuses. Her contributions have been instrumental in enhancing the efficiency and community spirit within our institutions.
Susan is highly responsive to the needs of the campus communities she serves. She consistently completes her work promptly, ensuring that administrative functions run smoothly and efficiently. Her commitment to the professional development of her colleagues, particularly new employees, is evident through her coordination of a comprehensive training program tailored to the needs of new administrative assistants and her provision of ongoing support and mentorship. Additionally, she actively participates in professional development sessions sponsored by the National Association for Presidents’ Assistants in Higher Education, where she also leads affinity groups at the national level.
Susan is proactive in seeking out new grants and funding opportunities, successfully researching and writing applications that bring essential resources to our campuses. Her efforts have significantly contributed to the financial health and growth of our programs. She excels in coordinating campus events that promote community engagement, such as co-chairing the MCC Family Day at the Basketball game and organizing major campus visits like the luncheon and program for 57 legislators and community members at the Advanced Technical Skills Institute, as well as co-coordinating the governor’s visit.
Susan provides exceptional support in scheduling travel for students and administrators, including organizing visits to lawmakers' offices and the White House in Washington, D.C. She ensures that students are well-prepared with pre-travel meetings that cover essential details, precautions, and emergency plans. Her expertise in event planning was crucial for the 50th anniversary of the Maple Woods Vet Tech Program, which attracted over 5,000 guests and raised more than $36,000. She also co-coordinated presidential interviews and campus-wide events, meticulously handling travel arrangements and pre-event preparations.
Susan regularly coordinates speaking engagements for administrators, preparing detailed PowerPoint presentations, setting up rehearsals, and managing audio-visual needs. Her attention to detail ensures that every event runs flawlessly. She represents the president at various community events and volunteers for numerous activities, including with the Northland Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Gladstone Chamber of Commerce, and local school districts. Her involvement strengthens our institution's ties with the community.
Susan provides invaluable support by proofreading and editing documents for administrative professionals and conducting accurate research for presentations. Her ability to utilize US Census Data and other sources ensures that our information is reliable and precise. Her commitment extends beyond standard working hours, often working evenings and weekends to support college and community events. Her unwavering dedication is a testament to her passion for her work and her community.
Susan is also known for recognizing and appreciating the work of others, having nominated several colleagues for national, state, and local awards. Her nominations have resulted in seven NISOD Award winners and two MCCA Award winners. Susan Chiappone embodies the qualities of an outstanding staff member and leader. Her dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts make her an ideal candidate for the MCCA Classified Staff Achievement Award. It is an honor to recognize her contributions and recommend her for this prestigious award.
Cory King | Nominated by Mineral Area College
Graphic Designer
Of course you would expect creative work from a professional graphic designer; but what sets Cory King apart is the way in which he consistently delivers remarkable creative work with a kindness and positive attitude that makes everyone on campus enjoy working with him. His exceptional designs communicate powerfully and are visually appealing. He has earned National accolades for his work. Most recently, a theater poster He designed for Godspell received a Paragon Award. He used engaging imagery to encourage interest in the performance bringing the spirit of the show to life. Cory receives a large volume of requests but always responds to colleagues with patience and kindness. What truly sets Cory apart is not his commitment to his craft, it’s his service to his colleagues and personal character that his peers cannot stop raving about. Coworkers describe him as “eager to serve for the greater good.” Cory’s combination of skill and service coupled with kindness make him someone who fosters a positive campus culture at MAC.
Of course you would expect creative work from a professional graphic designer; but what sets Cory King apart is the way in which he consistently delivers remarkable creative work with a kindness and positive attitude that makes everyone on campus enjoy working with him. His exceptional designs communicate powerfully and are visually appealing. He has earned National accolades for his work. Most recently, a theater poster He designed for Godspell received a Paragon Award. He used engaging imagery to encourage interest in the performance bringing the spirit of the show to life. Cory receives a large volume of requests but always responds to colleagues with patience and kindness. What truly sets Cory apart is not his commitment to his craft, it’s his service to his colleagues and personal character that his peers cannot stop raving about. Coworkers describe him as “eager to serve for the greater good.” Cory’s combination of skill and service coupled with kindness make him someone who fosters a positive campus culture at MAC.
Debbie Davison | Nominated by Moberly Area Community College
Admin Assistant, Student Affairs
Debbie's dedication and exceptional work ethic make her indispensable in the Student Affairs office. She serves as the Administrative Assistant to Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. She manages the day-to-day operations of the Student Affairs office with outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring smooth operations and optimal support for students. Debbie also takes on the significant responsibility of compiling hundreds of scholarship applications for our students. This task demands meticulous organization and an eye for detail, and Debbie has developed an efficient system that ensures students receive the support they need to be awarded scholarships to cover college expenses. She also excels in organizing and coordinating events like the annual athletic banquets and the commencement program, managing these complex tasks with professionalism and enthusiasm. These events require extensive coordination with vendors, staff, and students. Beyond her professional duties, Debbie’s infectious energy and talent for making others laugh create a positive atmosphere at MACC. Debbie Davison is a deserving candidate for the Classified Staff Award.
Debbie's dedication and exceptional work ethic make her indispensable in the Student Affairs office. She serves as the Administrative Assistant to Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. She manages the day-to-day operations of the Student Affairs office with outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring smooth operations and optimal support for students. Debbie also takes on the significant responsibility of compiling hundreds of scholarship applications for our students. This task demands meticulous organization and an eye for detail, and Debbie has developed an efficient system that ensures students receive the support they need to be awarded scholarships to cover college expenses. She also excels in organizing and coordinating events like the annual athletic banquets and the commencement program, managing these complex tasks with professionalism and enthusiasm. These events require extensive coordination with vendors, staff, and students. Beyond her professional duties, Debbie’s infectious energy and talent for making others laugh create a positive atmosphere at MACC. Debbie Davison is a deserving candidate for the Classified Staff Award.
Randy Cox | Nominated by North Central Missouri College
Maintenance Worker
Randy Cox is is dedicated to NCMC and his job. Randy is very thorough and goes above and beyond in his job duties. He is very polite, respectful, and genuinely wants to help people. Randy’s attention to detail is invaluable. Not only does Randy go above and beyond, he is always ready to help, go the extra mile, and take time to make sure it is done right. He is friendly, personable, and truly wants to make NCMC better.
Randy Cox is is dedicated to NCMC and his job. Randy is very thorough and goes above and beyond in his job duties. He is very polite, respectful, and genuinely wants to help people. Randy’s attention to detail is invaluable. Not only does Randy go above and beyond, he is always ready to help, go the extra mile, and take time to make sure it is done right. He is friendly, personable, and truly wants to make NCMC better.
Bailey Lape | Nominated by Ozarks Technical Community College
College Navigator
Bailey Lape serves at OTC as a college navigator for the Richwood Valley campus. She came to OTC after receiving a graduate degree in religious studies. Bailey utilized her background in humanities to transition into higher education. She feels community colleges introduce new ideas and cultures to people who thought they would never attend college. Bailey's positive attitude uplifts everyone she interacts with. Her position at the front desk allows her to set the tone on campus for students, faculty and staff. Her warm and welcoming demeanor makes students feel at ease as they step into their educational journey.
Bailey Lape serves at OTC as a college navigator for the Richwood Valley campus. She came to OTC after receiving a graduate degree in religious studies. Bailey utilized her background in humanities to transition into higher education. She feels community colleges introduce new ideas and cultures to people who thought they would never attend college. Bailey's positive attitude uplifts everyone she interacts with. Her position at the front desk allows her to set the tone on campus for students, faculty and staff. Her warm and welcoming demeanor makes students feel at ease as they step into their educational journey.
Nick Wallace | Nominated by St. Charles Community College
A/V Systems Engineer
SCC is pleased to nominate Nick Wallace for the Classified in recognition of his outstanding contributions as an AV Systems Engineer at SCC.
Since joining SCC in July 2019, Nick has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and leadership in advancing our institution's AV capabilities, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
At the onset of the pandemic, Nick played a pivotal role in ensuring the continuity of the College's governance structure by enabling remote meetings for the Board of Trustees. This initiative was critical in maintaining operational efficiency during a period of significant disruption.
As the pandemic progressed, Nick further exemplified his expertise by implementing innovative AV solutions that allowed the Board of Trustees to meet safely in person, while also providing a simulcast feed to accommodate guests and visitors in a separate secure location. This dual approach not only ensured the safety of participants but also enhanced accessibility and inclusivity in governance proceedings.
In addition to his impactful contributions during the pandemic, Nick has provided invaluable leadership in the demonstration classroom project. This initiative is set to define AV standards for our classrooms for the next decade, involving a multi-year implementation plan and significant financial investment. Nick’s strategic vision and technical acumen will undoubtedly shape the future learning environment at SCC for years to come.
Beyond his project leadership, Nick consistently provides exceptional AV support for campus events, often managing multiple concurrent events with grace and proficiency. His ability to maintain a positive attitude and a can-do spirit under pressure has earned them the respect and admiration of colleagues across the College.
Furthermore, Nick is widely recognized for his expert-level knowledge in AV systems engineering. Their deep understanding of technology and commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends make them an invaluable asset to SCC.
In conclusion, Nick embodies the qualities of excellence, innovation, and leadership that define this award. His contributions have not only enhanced our institution's technological infrastructure but also enriched the educational experience for our students and the operational efficiency of our staff.
SCC is pleased to nominate Nick Wallace for the Classified in recognition of his outstanding contributions as an AV Systems Engineer at SCC.
Since joining SCC in July 2019, Nick has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and leadership in advancing our institution's AV capabilities, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
At the onset of the pandemic, Nick played a pivotal role in ensuring the continuity of the College's governance structure by enabling remote meetings for the Board of Trustees. This initiative was critical in maintaining operational efficiency during a period of significant disruption.
As the pandemic progressed, Nick further exemplified his expertise by implementing innovative AV solutions that allowed the Board of Trustees to meet safely in person, while also providing a simulcast feed to accommodate guests and visitors in a separate secure location. This dual approach not only ensured the safety of participants but also enhanced accessibility and inclusivity in governance proceedings.
In addition to his impactful contributions during the pandemic, Nick has provided invaluable leadership in the demonstration classroom project. This initiative is set to define AV standards for our classrooms for the next decade, involving a multi-year implementation plan and significant financial investment. Nick’s strategic vision and technical acumen will undoubtedly shape the future learning environment at SCC for years to come.
Beyond his project leadership, Nick consistently provides exceptional AV support for campus events, often managing multiple concurrent events with grace and proficiency. His ability to maintain a positive attitude and a can-do spirit under pressure has earned them the respect and admiration of colleagues across the College.
Furthermore, Nick is widely recognized for his expert-level knowledge in AV systems engineering. Their deep understanding of technology and commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends make them an invaluable asset to SCC.
In conclusion, Nick embodies the qualities of excellence, innovation, and leadership that define this award. His contributions have not only enhanced our institution's technological infrastructure but also enriched the educational experience for our students and the operational efficiency of our staff.
Shelly Gardner | Nominated by State Fair Community College
Executive Asst. to VP of Academic & Student Success
Shelly is responsible for assisting in the organization and planning of the day-to-day administrative and financial activities of the unit that includes general Academic Affairs, Student Success, Adult Education, The LearningForce, and the Career Technical Center. She is responsible for communicating and expediting operational procedures within the divisions, organizing and coordinating special activities and work projects, compiling reports, and supporting grant management and expenditures activities.
Responsibilities:
Financially managed the Carl Perkins Grant, DESE Enhancement grant, and the DESE 50/50 grant for a total of approximately $1M in expenditures. Shelly managed the budget build, expenditures, coordination with academic stakeholders, and ensured all documentation (internal and external) was completed as required.
Managing the distribution of MoExcel IV grant of $4.5M to support the building of a new $20M building for the Center of Advanced Agriculture and Transportation Technology (CAATT). Oversees the spend plan, procurement, and collaborates with accounting/business office to acquire the multi-million dollars’ worth of educational equipment.
Shelly is the Faculty Load and Compensation (FLAC) expert for the college ensuring all faculty are compensated correctly. This year added additional challenges with the FLAC system as it had to function within a new academic schedule that allows multiple semester lengths. Shelly has also managed the Faculty Pay guide to ensure all exceptions and procedures are documented.
Oversaw the marketing, professional development, and equipment expenditures for all health science and technical education programs – coordinating with academic deans and program directors to ensure procurement procedures, bids, and quotes were completed as required by state and federal guidelines.
Managed the Commencement planning team of over 25 personnel to create “best ever” celebration for SFCC graduates. Established the first ever fall (December) graduation for SFCC due to number of graduates – goal to support retention and graduation. Her efforts led to the largest number of graduates walking at May commencement. Other Universities are using as best practice.
Represented the college for the Sedalia Chamber of Commerce. She was an active member of the Board and kept President and Leadership Team apprised of events and requests.
Ensure the course schedule is accurate. Provides quality oversight that each division has appropriately built their respective schedules, and that faculty have appropriate loads. This year she provided support for a “zero-based” academic schedule to allow for new scheduling opportunities to support student requests.
Managed the renovation and “face lift” of Fielding building hallway to support upgrading the technical education facilities and classrooms. Setting the bar for new modern upgrades to the entire facility. This coordination included internal stakeholders and external services/contracts with painters, flooring, sign company, IT, and other procurement avenues.
Coordinated all efforts while being remote for the Instructor, Adjunct, and Staff of the Year Ceremony. This included setup, awards, coordinating surprise family attendance, scripts, seating arrangements, facilities, etc. Her involvement with any event has raised the bar for the future.
In addition to her own responsibilities, Shelly support the Technical Education Division with additional administrative and project management support while searching for new dean and admin assistant for nearly 11 months.
It is clear SFCC is extremely proud to have classified staff of Shelly Gardner’s qualities -- organization, leadership, and dedication. SFCC focuses hard to ensure our staff are recognized for their contributions into educating and training our students, and providing the support service to allow them the greatest success. Shelly’s accomplishments and day-to-day responsibilities definitely highlight the intention of this award, and SFCC is proud to nominate her for your consideration.
Shelly is responsible for assisting in the organization and planning of the day-to-day administrative and financial activities of the unit that includes general Academic Affairs, Student Success, Adult Education, The LearningForce, and the Career Technical Center. She is responsible for communicating and expediting operational procedures within the divisions, organizing and coordinating special activities and work projects, compiling reports, and supporting grant management and expenditures activities.
Responsibilities:
- Organizes, manages, and coordinates various and complex academic and student success processes within the VP’s office.
- Coordinates data collection to provide statistical information for all academic and student success divisions.
- Records and assists in the preparation of the VP and academic division budgets. 4. Manages the day-to-day financial and budget activities for Academic Affairs which includes but is not limited to, Carl Perkins Grant, Perkins Base Funding, Enhancement Grant and DESE 50/50 Grant.
- Manages the financial activity of each of the units. Manages workflow operations of each unit's financial processes. Works with College Finance to clarify financial processes as needed. Recommends and implements changes to improve the financial workflow within Academic Affairs. This includes, among other financial activities, initiating and managing the workflow of invoices, requisition, journal vouchers, travel and business expense reports, stipend payments, and vendor setups.
- Ensures the efficient and effective functioning of the VP’s Office, serving as the initial resource person.
- Maintains close contact with and acts as the primary assistant to the VP (and Deans as needed) furthering the college, school, and department’s agenda and priorities and assisting in managing and organizing the individual day-to-day activities.
- Responsible for project management for annual projects and activities across Academic Affairs. Engages with the Dean of Academic Affairs and other unit managers to plan new strategic initiatives and manage their implementation.
- Provides advanced-level office administration skills and leadership including but not limited to coordination of data collection and entry, problem solving, recordkeeping, correspondence, and office management duties for the VP’s office.
- Manages special projects as assigned by the VP and identifies opportunities to improve policies, forms, or processes.
- Coordinates with Deans, Division Chairs, faculty and other departments, such as IT and Facilities, to process various requests.
- Provide project management of academic and student success projects and events to include but not limited to coordinating schedules, arranging meetings, distributing memos, and reporting and ensuring that everyone is kept current of necessary deadlines and information.
- Manages event support, coordination, and efficient operational planning for seasonal and key events.
- Assists with compilation and preparation of documentation for grant applications, external program accreditation, and new program applications as needed.
- Provides support to include preparation of documents supporting instruction, records, maintenance, data input, and the use of BANNER.
- Functions as a resource to lower-level staff’ provides coaching and training to ensure situations and issues are appropriately managed as well as forwarded to appropriate staff members for resolution.
- Coordinates faculty searches, including working with search committees to schedule interviews and arrange candidate travel.
Financially managed the Carl Perkins Grant, DESE Enhancement grant, and the DESE 50/50 grant for a total of approximately $1M in expenditures. Shelly managed the budget build, expenditures, coordination with academic stakeholders, and ensured all documentation (internal and external) was completed as required.
Managing the distribution of MoExcel IV grant of $4.5M to support the building of a new $20M building for the Center of Advanced Agriculture and Transportation Technology (CAATT). Oversees the spend plan, procurement, and collaborates with accounting/business office to acquire the multi-million dollars’ worth of educational equipment.
Shelly is the Faculty Load and Compensation (FLAC) expert for the college ensuring all faculty are compensated correctly. This year added additional challenges with the FLAC system as it had to function within a new academic schedule that allows multiple semester lengths. Shelly has also managed the Faculty Pay guide to ensure all exceptions and procedures are documented.
Oversaw the marketing, professional development, and equipment expenditures for all health science and technical education programs – coordinating with academic deans and program directors to ensure procurement procedures, bids, and quotes were completed as required by state and federal guidelines.
Managed the Commencement planning team of over 25 personnel to create “best ever” celebration for SFCC graduates. Established the first ever fall (December) graduation for SFCC due to number of graduates – goal to support retention and graduation. Her efforts led to the largest number of graduates walking at May commencement. Other Universities are using as best practice.
Represented the college for the Sedalia Chamber of Commerce. She was an active member of the Board and kept President and Leadership Team apprised of events and requests.
Ensure the course schedule is accurate. Provides quality oversight that each division has appropriately built their respective schedules, and that faculty have appropriate loads. This year she provided support for a “zero-based” academic schedule to allow for new scheduling opportunities to support student requests.
Managed the renovation and “face lift” of Fielding building hallway to support upgrading the technical education facilities and classrooms. Setting the bar for new modern upgrades to the entire facility. This coordination included internal stakeholders and external services/contracts with painters, flooring, sign company, IT, and other procurement avenues.
Coordinated all efforts while being remote for the Instructor, Adjunct, and Staff of the Year Ceremony. This included setup, awards, coordinating surprise family attendance, scripts, seating arrangements, facilities, etc. Her involvement with any event has raised the bar for the future.
In addition to her own responsibilities, Shelly support the Technical Education Division with additional administrative and project management support while searching for new dean and admin assistant for nearly 11 months.
It is clear SFCC is extremely proud to have classified staff of Shelly Gardner’s qualities -- organization, leadership, and dedication. SFCC focuses hard to ensure our staff are recognized for their contributions into educating and training our students, and providing the support service to allow them the greatest success. Shelly’s accomplishments and day-to-day responsibilities definitely highlight the intention of this award, and SFCC is proud to nominate her for your consideration.
Ashley Vernon | Nominated by Three Rivers College
Accreditation Coordinator & Executive Assistant to the Chief Institutional Effectiveness Officer
Ashley Vernon, Accreditation Coordinator and Executive Assistant to the Chief Institutional Effectiveness Officer, has a positive impact on the college and the Office of Institutional Effectiveness. She takes the lead on many college projects and exceeds expectations in all areas of work standards. Ashley was instrumental in designing a cross-functional matrix to enhance college operations within the framework of college policies and regulations. Ms. Vernon is a problem solver; she recognizes potential gaps in advance and often offers solutions to improve the performance of the college. She is a member of TRC’s HLC Student Success Academy Team, where she often exceeds expectations and goes above and beyond to provide clarity for the team in the design of artifacts and professional development activities. In her role as Accreditation Coordinator, Ashley maintains databases for tracking institutional compliance documents for accurate representation of data and information. Her efforts helped the college achieve a successful 4-Year Assurance Review with the Higher Learning Commission, as well as the successful Post Secondary Civil Rights Compliance Review with the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education. Her colleagues often describe her as professional, collaborative, and a real treasure.
Ashley Vernon, Accreditation Coordinator and Executive Assistant to the Chief Institutional Effectiveness Officer, has a positive impact on the college and the Office of Institutional Effectiveness. She takes the lead on many college projects and exceeds expectations in all areas of work standards. Ashley was instrumental in designing a cross-functional matrix to enhance college operations within the framework of college policies and regulations. Ms. Vernon is a problem solver; she recognizes potential gaps in advance and often offers solutions to improve the performance of the college. She is a member of TRC’s HLC Student Success Academy Team, where she often exceeds expectations and goes above and beyond to provide clarity for the team in the design of artifacts and professional development activities. In her role as Accreditation Coordinator, Ashley maintains databases for tracking institutional compliance documents for accurate representation of data and information. Her efforts helped the college achieve a successful 4-Year Assurance Review with the Higher Learning Commission, as well as the successful Post Secondary Civil Rights Compliance Review with the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education. Her colleagues often describe her as professional, collaborative, and a real treasure.
Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award: Finalists
Granted each year in recognition of the vital contributions adjuncts make to the community college mission. Candidates may be any teaching faculty with an FTE less than 100 percent. Nominees must have taught at least one course per academic year for three consecutive years as adjunct faculty. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Granted each year in recognition of the vital contributions adjuncts make to the community college mission. Candidates may be any teaching faculty with an FTE less than 100 percent. Nominees must have taught at least one course per academic year for three consecutive years as adjunct faculty. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Elisha Chaney | Nominated by East Central College
Nursing Adjunct
Elisha consistently steps up to help without complaint, demonstrating remarkable flexibility and a willingness to assist in any situation. She upholds high standards for her students, comparable to those of full-time faculty members, yet she is also dedicated to providing individual support when students struggle with paperwork or patient stations. Her exceptional commitment and positive attitude make her a true gem, and a huge asset to the Nursing team. Elisha goes above and beyond for her students, excelling as both a clinical and classroom educator. She strikes the perfect balance between challenging students and offering the support they need to thrive and grow.
Elisha consistently steps up to help without complaint, demonstrating remarkable flexibility and a willingness to assist in any situation. She upholds high standards for her students, comparable to those of full-time faculty members, yet she is also dedicated to providing individual support when students struggle with paperwork or patient stations. Her exceptional commitment and positive attitude make her a true gem, and a huge asset to the Nursing team. Elisha goes above and beyond for her students, excelling as both a clinical and classroom educator. She strikes the perfect balance between challenging students and offering the support they need to thrive and grow.
Betty Boyer | Nominated by Jefferson College
Adjunct
Betty has been teaching CIS125 for many years, and her course shell is the model when onboarding new CIS125 instructors. She receives consistently positive student evaluations and Pats on the Back for her helpful attitude that goes above and beyond for her online students. She has made many helpful suggestions for improvements to the CIS125 course curriculum, and has volunteered for on-campus events, such as the JCA Vaccine Drive. Here are some examples of feedback:
Betty has been teaching CIS125 for many years, and her course shell is the model when onboarding new CIS125 instructors. She receives consistently positive student evaluations and Pats on the Back for her helpful attitude that goes above and beyond for her online students. She has made many helpful suggestions for improvements to the CIS125 course curriculum, and has volunteered for on-campus events, such as the JCA Vaccine Drive. Here are some examples of feedback:
- "Mrs. Boyer is a great inspiration, she is someone that I can look up to and feel the sense of relief that it will be ok. I felt that I had called her too much for assistance in regards to my assignments, but every time I had called or texted her she was always willing to help. She made everything really easy to understand especially when I was not understanding myself. I just Love Ms. Boyer."
- "I was having some issues with an app she wanted me to use for some assignments, and we were on the phone for over an hour trying to figure it out. After that, it showed me she was interested in me passing this class and being able to get as much out of it as possible. She demonstrated that her students were meaningful to her, and she wanted to be as accessible as she could to help each and every one of them. I appreciate this and if any other student had issues, I hope they reached out to her for help, because it was very helpful."
Bradley Dyke | Nominated by Metropolitan Community College
History & Political Science Adjunct
Mr. Bradley Dyke (HIST/POLS) has been teaching for MCC since Fall 2019 at both the Longview and Online campuses. He is an active participant in creating high-quality co-curricular and community enrichment events such as the successful faculty forums on the Ukraine War (SP22 and SP23), an Election information panel for mid-terms (FA23), and an Israel-Hamas panel (SP24). With a specialty in International Relations, his insights into global conflicts and current events are immensely important to fulfil the civic engagement goals of the institution and its students. His numerous contributions are valuable to the MCC academic community, and his classroom teaching is lauded by his peers and his students.
Nominated By: Sheryl Farnan, Dean of Instruction, MCC Longview Campus
Mr. Bradley Dyke (HIST/POLS) has been teaching for MCC since Fall 2019 at both the Longview and Online campuses. He is an active participant in creating high-quality co-curricular and community enrichment events such as the successful faculty forums on the Ukraine War (SP22 and SP23), an Election information panel for mid-terms (FA23), and an Israel-Hamas panel (SP24). With a specialty in International Relations, his insights into global conflicts and current events are immensely important to fulfil the civic engagement goals of the institution and its students. His numerous contributions are valuable to the MCC academic community, and his classroom teaching is lauded by his peers and his students.
Nominated By: Sheryl Farnan, Dean of Instruction, MCC Longview Campus
Roger Greenland | Nominated by Mineral Area College
Adjunct
Roger Greenland has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to education and student success since joining MAC in 2014. Greenland brings a wealth of experience to the classroom, drawing from more than three decades of service at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and his education from the prestigious Naval War College. This unique background allows him to engage students while infusing his American History, American Political Systems, and World Geography courses with real world examples and illustrations. He is described by his colleagues as passionate about his subject matter, a conscientious and hard-working instructor who provides valuable learning experiences for his students. His commitment to the community college campus extends beyond formal teaching duties. As MAC’s Veterans Club Advisor, he provides critical support and mentorship to student veterans. Furthermore, his instrumental role in organizing our campus annual Veteran’s Day celebration demonstrates his dedication to fostering a sense of community and recognition on campus. Greenland embodies the spirit of excellence in teaching through his exceptional dedication, real-world expertise, and unwavering commitment to student success.
Roger Greenland has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to education and student success since joining MAC in 2014. Greenland brings a wealth of experience to the classroom, drawing from more than three decades of service at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and his education from the prestigious Naval War College. This unique background allows him to engage students while infusing his American History, American Political Systems, and World Geography courses with real world examples and illustrations. He is described by his colleagues as passionate about his subject matter, a conscientious and hard-working instructor who provides valuable learning experiences for his students. His commitment to the community college campus extends beyond formal teaching duties. As MAC’s Veterans Club Advisor, he provides critical support and mentorship to student veterans. Furthermore, his instrumental role in organizing our campus annual Veteran’s Day celebration demonstrates his dedication to fostering a sense of community and recognition on campus. Greenland embodies the spirit of excellence in teaching through his exceptional dedication, real-world expertise, and unwavering commitment to student success.
Jimmy Dick | Nominated by Moberly Area Community College
Adjunct Faculty
Jimmy Dick has served MACC as an adjunct instructor at Moberly Area Community College since 2013. He has a sincere passion for helping students succeed in the classroom. Jimmy's love of history is clearly apparent as he presents information to his students. He continually strives to find creative ways to connect with students both in-person and virtually, as he teaches multiple blended courses. Jimmy is always willing to go above and beyond what is expected of him as an adjunct and engages the MACC community in many ways outside of the classroom. He has won the MACC Adjunct Faculty Award twice. Once in 2016-2017 and again in 2022-2023. MACC truly appreciates Jimmy's years of service and dedication.
Jimmy Dick has served MACC as an adjunct instructor at Moberly Area Community College since 2013. He has a sincere passion for helping students succeed in the classroom. Jimmy's love of history is clearly apparent as he presents information to his students. He continually strives to find creative ways to connect with students both in-person and virtually, as he teaches multiple blended courses. Jimmy is always willing to go above and beyond what is expected of him as an adjunct and engages the MACC community in many ways outside of the classroom. He has won the MACC Adjunct Faculty Award twice. Once in 2016-2017 and again in 2022-2023. MACC truly appreciates Jimmy's years of service and dedication.
Ryan Suttenfield | Nominated by North Central Missouri College
Sports Information/Assistant Baseball/Adjunct
I am pleased to nominate Ryan Suttenfield for the Adjunct Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to our Sport Management program at NCMC. Ryan has played a pivotal role in the development and success of our program, demonstrating exceptional dedication and expertise. As a curriculum developer, he has crafted engaging and dynamic course materials that have significantly enhanced the learning experience for our students. His commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive classroom environment has fostered a positive atmosphere where students thrive academically and personally. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Ryan actively advises our students, providing invaluable guidance and support as they navigate their academic journeys and pursue opportunities in Sport Management. His efforts extend beyond the classroom, where he plays a key role in assisting students with transferring to four-year institutions, ensuring they have the necessary resources and mentorship to achieve their goals. Ryan's contributions are integral to the success of our team at NCMC, embodying the qualities of an exemplary adjunct professor. His passion for education and commitment to student success are truly commendable. Therefore, it is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Ryan Suttenfield for the Adjunct Award. His dedication, leadership, and impact make him a deserving candidate for this recognition.
I am pleased to nominate Ryan Suttenfield for the Adjunct Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to our Sport Management program at NCMC. Ryan has played a pivotal role in the development and success of our program, demonstrating exceptional dedication and expertise. As a curriculum developer, he has crafted engaging and dynamic course materials that have significantly enhanced the learning experience for our students. His commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive classroom environment has fostered a positive atmosphere where students thrive academically and personally. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Ryan actively advises our students, providing invaluable guidance and support as they navigate their academic journeys and pursue opportunities in Sport Management. His efforts extend beyond the classroom, where he plays a key role in assisting students with transferring to four-year institutions, ensuring they have the necessary resources and mentorship to achieve their goals. Ryan's contributions are integral to the success of our team at NCMC, embodying the qualities of an exemplary adjunct professor. His passion for education and commitment to student success are truly commendable. Therefore, it is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Ryan Suttenfield for the Adjunct Award. His dedication, leadership, and impact make him a deserving candidate for this recognition.
Laura Harris | Nominated by Ozarks Technical Community College
Adjunct Instructor - Mathematics
Laura Harris is an adjunct math instructor who has spent eleven impactful years at OTC. Prior to working at OTC, Laura was an algebra and geometry teacher at Ozark High School. There, she gained over three decades of teaching experience. Laura began her journey at OTC teaching night classes at the Richwood Valley campus then transitioned to daytime classes after retiring from Ozark High School. Laura’s calm and gentle demeanor is her superpower. Her ability to help students approach and learn an often anxiety-inducing subject makes her a cherished figure at OTC.
Laura Harris is an adjunct math instructor who has spent eleven impactful years at OTC. Prior to working at OTC, Laura was an algebra and geometry teacher at Ozark High School. There, she gained over three decades of teaching experience. Laura began her journey at OTC teaching night classes at the Richwood Valley campus then transitioned to daytime classes after retiring from Ozark High School. Laura’s calm and gentle demeanor is her superpower. Her ability to help students approach and learn an often anxiety-inducing subject makes her a cherished figure at OTC.
Douglas Gaubatz | Nominated by St. Louis Community College — Florissant Valley
Adjunct Instructor – Art/Photography
Doug has taught Photography classes for over 40 years at STLCC-FV. Over the years he has been a dedicated employee and a well-respected and knowledgeable educator and colleague. Many of his students have gone on to careers in photography and consider him to have been a big part of their success. Over the years, he has consistently been willing to help grow the Photography program and support students' growth and creativity. He not only purchases frames for students so that more students can participate in Portfolio Day and student exhibits, he also prints their work and frames and wires it. He has been a key player in our building renovation, storing and moving items, setting up studios, providing feedback for renovated spaces, and coming up with creative ways to support students studying in different locations during renovation. Doug is also constantly in the building, which is a big deal for our students who need support and mentorship. We are so lucky he has dedicated over four decades of his life to our students.
Doug has taught Photography classes for over 40 years at STLCC-FV. Over the years he has been a dedicated employee and a well-respected and knowledgeable educator and colleague. Many of his students have gone on to careers in photography and consider him to have been a big part of their success. Over the years, he has consistently been willing to help grow the Photography program and support students' growth and creativity. He not only purchases frames for students so that more students can participate in Portfolio Day and student exhibits, he also prints their work and frames and wires it. He has been a key player in our building renovation, storing and moving items, setting up studios, providing feedback for renovated spaces, and coming up with creative ways to support students studying in different locations during renovation. Doug is also constantly in the building, which is a big deal for our students who need support and mentorship. We are so lucky he has dedicated over four decades of his life to our students.
Victoria Wittmaier | Nominated by State Fair Community College
English Adjunct
Victoria Wittmaier has been a tremendous example and influence on SFCC students but also on the full-time and part-time faculty as a whole. Victoria is an adjunct faculty member teaching English courses, but housed at SFCC-Clinton Campus. Although she teaches face-to-face to a smaller group of SFCC students, she is also a leader in our efforts to continuously improve our hybrid online course offering using web conferencing technologies. This has provided SFCC the advantage of having Victoria teach to hundreds of online and/or geographically separated students – gaining her a reputation with the students that is sometimes limited with distance learning. Victoria is incredibly student centered, conscientious, and helpful. She advocates for students, tries new and varied methods of learning, and fosters a positive environment. She also works hard to maintain communication with her leadership. She does not hesitate to bring up a new idea or a concern, if it means making improvements for her students. Victoria may be considered part-time, but is full-time student engaged and compassionate about their learning.
As a result of her student engagement and teaching style, she was honored as the students’ selection as Adjunct Faculty of the Year, represented adjunct faculty at spring commencement, and has been highlighted for her achievements in various social media.
When selected by peers, it is an honor; however, when selected as adjunct faculty of the year by the student body across seven campus locations, it notes a true level of distinction. Excerpts from the students stress her accomplishments and attributes that deserve recognition for excellence in teaching. Highlighting a few student comments:
There were too many comments to note them all; however, Victoria’s educational philosophy is also a critical aspect to show her teaching success and her passion for excellence in teaching and learning:
I let them choose their own topics so that they’ll choose ones that interest them, or that might be useful to their careers. I remind them that a degree is not just a piece of paper, it represents a set of skills that an employer will believe they have. I tell them that shortchanging their skillset by skipping readings, or only putting forth partial effort on writing assignments doesn’t help them achieve the goals they’ve set for themselves by enrolling in college in the first place. What they learn is ultimately up to them and their own effort, but I’m happy to help lead the way.
It is clear SFCC is extremely proud to have Victoria as one of our outstanding adjunct faculty, and we believe an adjunct faculty member that dedicates and participates in the college-wide improvements definitely highlights the qualities and attributes of the intention of this award. Victoria Wittmaier embodies excellence in teaching and learning, and SFCC is proud to nominate her for your consideration.
Victoria Wittmaier has been a tremendous example and influence on SFCC students but also on the full-time and part-time faculty as a whole. Victoria is an adjunct faculty member teaching English courses, but housed at SFCC-Clinton Campus. Although she teaches face-to-face to a smaller group of SFCC students, she is also a leader in our efforts to continuously improve our hybrid online course offering using web conferencing technologies. This has provided SFCC the advantage of having Victoria teach to hundreds of online and/or geographically separated students – gaining her a reputation with the students that is sometimes limited with distance learning. Victoria is incredibly student centered, conscientious, and helpful. She advocates for students, tries new and varied methods of learning, and fosters a positive environment. She also works hard to maintain communication with her leadership. She does not hesitate to bring up a new idea or a concern, if it means making improvements for her students. Victoria may be considered part-time, but is full-time student engaged and compassionate about their learning.
As a result of her student engagement and teaching style, she was honored as the students’ selection as Adjunct Faculty of the Year, represented adjunct faculty at spring commencement, and has been highlighted for her achievements in various social media.
When selected by peers, it is an honor; however, when selected as adjunct faculty of the year by the student body across seven campus locations, it notes a true level of distinction. Excerpts from the students stress her accomplishments and attributes that deserve recognition for excellence in teaching. Highlighting a few student comments:
- truly cares about students and wants them all to be happy and healthy, first, and then successful after that.
- the most understanding and accommodating of any of my instructors. • worked with me to ensure I didn't fall behind and gave me much needed advice on how to proceed
- the only instructor that has made me feel truly cared for as a person.
- extremely patient when asked a multitude of questions, even when they are redundant.
- eliminated my terror that I wasn’t cut out for college after a 15-year hiatus.
There were too many comments to note them all; however, Victoria’s educational philosophy is also a critical aspect to show her teaching success and her passion for excellence in teaching and learning:
I let them choose their own topics so that they’ll choose ones that interest them, or that might be useful to their careers. I remind them that a degree is not just a piece of paper, it represents a set of skills that an employer will believe they have. I tell them that shortchanging their skillset by skipping readings, or only putting forth partial effort on writing assignments doesn’t help them achieve the goals they’ve set for themselves by enrolling in college in the first place. What they learn is ultimately up to them and their own effort, but I’m happy to help lead the way.
It is clear SFCC is extremely proud to have Victoria as one of our outstanding adjunct faculty, and we believe an adjunct faculty member that dedicates and participates in the college-wide improvements definitely highlights the qualities and attributes of the intention of this award. Victoria Wittmaier embodies excellence in teaching and learning, and SFCC is proud to nominate her for your consideration.
Emily Thurman | Nominated by Three Rivers College
Adjunct
Emily Thurman is an Adjunct Instructor of English and was named the 2024 Adjunct of the Year by Three Rivers College. She has worked with full-time on English curriculum development and online course design, showing a continued willingness to go above and beyond the typical responsibilities of being an adjunct instructor. In an environment of increasing online and distant learning, Ms. Thurman drives many miles weekly between multiple locations to offer face-to-face courses for students. She is committed to fostering student success as a strong steward of Three Rivers College.
Emily Thurman is an Adjunct Instructor of English and was named the 2024 Adjunct of the Year by Three Rivers College. She has worked with full-time on English curriculum development and online course design, showing a continued willingness to go above and beyond the typical responsibilities of being an adjunct instructor. In an environment of increasing online and distant learning, Ms. Thurman drives many miles weekly between multiple locations to offer face-to-face courses for students. She is committed to fostering student success as a strong steward of Three Rivers College.
MCCA Innovation Award: Finalists
Presented annually to recognize an innovative project by an individual or group of faculty or staff members at a community college. This award encourages the creative and effective use of technology to improve outcomes and/or operations. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Presented annually to recognize an innovative project by an individual or group of faculty or staff members at a community college. This award encourages the creative and effective use of technology to improve outcomes and/or operations. Winners to be announced at the convention awards dinner on Thursday, November 14.
Independence School District Early College Program | Nominated by Metropolitan Community College
K-12 education is facing a serious crisis. Across the nation, a teacher shortage is being felt, which has caused significant challenges with staffing classrooms. Due to this shortage, the Independence School District (ISD) moved from a five-day- school week to a four-day-school week. This change spurred the question of what do ISD students do on the fifth day when they do not attend school. This question resulted in a partnership that gave ISD high school students the opportunity to take courses at Metropolitan Community College (MCC) on the fifth day when their high schools where not in session.
In the Fall 2022 Semester, a meeting occurred among the ISD Superintendent, the ISD Assistant Superintendent, and a few MCC administrators and staff. During the course of the meeting, the ISD Superintendent mentioned that he was seeking approval to switch ISD from a five-day-school week to a four-day-school week as a result of various challenges including the recruitment of teachers. Such a move would give rise to some programming options for students. The ISD Superintendent asked if it would be possible for MCC to provide college classes on the fifth day when students are not meeting at their high schools. Such an opportunity would provide students an additional option to obtain college credit while in high school.
To address this request, MCC staff, administrators, and faculty collaborated to determine how to make this request possible. The day that ISD students would not meet in their traditional school sessions was Mondays; however, ISD students did need to meet on some Mondays due to various factors. A few additional challenges existed, including what courses would work well in a one-day-week format, how to schedule a course that meets on some Mondays but not all Mondays, how do you convince students take one-day-a-week courses, and what was the enrollment process for these students.
Academic integrity was the most crucial component in order to offer Monday-only courses. Through a collaboration of ISD counselors, MCC Division Chairs, deans, faculty, and staff, a determination was made regarding what courses would work well in the Monday-only format. Since the ISD students would meet on some Mondays, a decision was made to offer the courses in a 12-week format where some courses would be in a hybrid format while others were not hybrid. In order to provide the traditional college experience for ISD students, a decision was made to not restrict the enrollment of these courses to ISD only students. By allowing traditional and non-traditional students to enroll in the Monday-only courses, the ISD students would be able to interact with other students who were not in high school.
With the format of the courses being determined, staff developed the enrollment process and marketing to help promote the program. In conjunction with ISD personnel, information about the program was distributed to parents and students. The students were case managed through the enrollment process and regular updates about the enrollment were shared with key stakeholders. Multiple measures were used to assess course placement and college readiness. An orientation was developed and a communication plan was established. For the first year, 52 students participated in the MCC ISD Early College Program.
The MCC ISD Early College Program represents a partnership that addressed true needs of the community. Hence, high school students were able to obtain college credit, and the ISD four-day work week resulted in a 450% increase in applications to work for ISD, which helped address staffing concerns. As word spreads about the program, more and more students and parents have expressed interest in a program, which is impressive since these students are opting to take college courses on their “day off.”
In the Fall 2022 Semester, a meeting occurred among the ISD Superintendent, the ISD Assistant Superintendent, and a few MCC administrators and staff. During the course of the meeting, the ISD Superintendent mentioned that he was seeking approval to switch ISD from a five-day-school week to a four-day-school week as a result of various challenges including the recruitment of teachers. Such a move would give rise to some programming options for students. The ISD Superintendent asked if it would be possible for MCC to provide college classes on the fifth day when students are not meeting at their high schools. Such an opportunity would provide students an additional option to obtain college credit while in high school.
To address this request, MCC staff, administrators, and faculty collaborated to determine how to make this request possible. The day that ISD students would not meet in their traditional school sessions was Mondays; however, ISD students did need to meet on some Mondays due to various factors. A few additional challenges existed, including what courses would work well in a one-day-week format, how to schedule a course that meets on some Mondays but not all Mondays, how do you convince students take one-day-a-week courses, and what was the enrollment process for these students.
Academic integrity was the most crucial component in order to offer Monday-only courses. Through a collaboration of ISD counselors, MCC Division Chairs, deans, faculty, and staff, a determination was made regarding what courses would work well in the Monday-only format. Since the ISD students would meet on some Mondays, a decision was made to offer the courses in a 12-week format where some courses would be in a hybrid format while others were not hybrid. In order to provide the traditional college experience for ISD students, a decision was made to not restrict the enrollment of these courses to ISD only students. By allowing traditional and non-traditional students to enroll in the Monday-only courses, the ISD students would be able to interact with other students who were not in high school.
With the format of the courses being determined, staff developed the enrollment process and marketing to help promote the program. In conjunction with ISD personnel, information about the program was distributed to parents and students. The students were case managed through the enrollment process and regular updates about the enrollment were shared with key stakeholders. Multiple measures were used to assess course placement and college readiness. An orientation was developed and a communication plan was established. For the first year, 52 students participated in the MCC ISD Early College Program.
The MCC ISD Early College Program represents a partnership that addressed true needs of the community. Hence, high school students were able to obtain college credit, and the ISD four-day work week resulted in a 450% increase in applications to work for ISD, which helped address staffing concerns. As word spreads about the program, more and more students and parents have expressed interest in a program, which is impressive since these students are opting to take college courses on their “day off.”
MAC Nursing Department | Nominated by Mineral Area College
Mineral Area College proudly nominates its Nursing Program's visionary expansion initiative for this year’s MCCA Innovation Award.
Recognizing the critical need for accessible, high-quality nursing education across our service region, Mineral Area College successfully launched an expansion of its Associate Degree Nursing program. Approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing in 2023, this initiative introduces an LPN to RN completion pathway at two regional healthcare facilities: Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau and Mercy Hospital – Perry in Perryville. This expansion includes the addition of thirty new seats across both sites, building on the success of a pilot program that welcomed six students to the Perryville location during the 2022-2023 academic year.
Central to these innovative partnerships is the integration of remote didactic instruction and state-of-the-art technology, bolstered by advanced simulation labs and robust clinical experiences within the hospital setting. This approach not only addresses the evolving healthcare landscape but also meets the critical demand for skilled nursing professionals in underserved communities. By offering flexible scheduling and affordable tuition rates, Mineral Area College empowers local LPNs to advance their careers without leaving their communities.
The program’s commitment to educational innovation and practical relevance positions it as an example of excellence within the healthcare industry. It serves as a model for other nursing programs grappling with the challenge of delivering education in smaller or outlying areas. Through collaborative efforts with local healthcare providers and the strategic use of technology, Mineral Area College has expanded access to nursing education, paving the way for LPNs to achieve their Associate Degree in Nursing while remaining integral members of their communities.
This nomination underscores Mineral Area College’s dedication to pioneering solutions that not only enhance educational opportunities but also strengthen the healthcare workforce in our region.
Recognizing the critical need for accessible, high-quality nursing education across our service region, Mineral Area College successfully launched an expansion of its Associate Degree Nursing program. Approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing in 2023, this initiative introduces an LPN to RN completion pathway at two regional healthcare facilities: Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau and Mercy Hospital – Perry in Perryville. This expansion includes the addition of thirty new seats across both sites, building on the success of a pilot program that welcomed six students to the Perryville location during the 2022-2023 academic year.
Central to these innovative partnerships is the integration of remote didactic instruction and state-of-the-art technology, bolstered by advanced simulation labs and robust clinical experiences within the hospital setting. This approach not only addresses the evolving healthcare landscape but also meets the critical demand for skilled nursing professionals in underserved communities. By offering flexible scheduling and affordable tuition rates, Mineral Area College empowers local LPNs to advance their careers without leaving their communities.
The program’s commitment to educational innovation and practical relevance positions it as an example of excellence within the healthcare industry. It serves as a model for other nursing programs grappling with the challenge of delivering education in smaller or outlying areas. Through collaborative efforts with local healthcare providers and the strategic use of technology, Mineral Area College has expanded access to nursing education, paving the way for LPNs to achieve their Associate Degree in Nursing while remaining integral members of their communities.
This nomination underscores Mineral Area College’s dedication to pioneering solutions that not only enhance educational opportunities but also strengthen the healthcare workforce in our region.
Brandon Scheldt | Nominated by Mineral Area College
Web Specialist
Mineral Area College is honored to nominate Brandon Scheldt for the Innovation Award in recognition of his contributions to revolutionizing our college’s digital presence. Brandon’s forward-thinking web strategies have infused our college community with an unparalleled level of excitement and engagement. His work is not limited to a single project; across the board, his efforts have impacted every department within our institution.
Brandon's dedication to overhauling the campus website is transforming it into a more vibrant and informative platform that showcases the strengths and offerings of our college in the most professional light. His adeptness at capturing and skillfully editing compelling images has directly led to the creation of web pages that not only engage but also inform students and the broader community about what makes our college unique.
Additionally, Brandon reintroduced podcasting to our college, creating a fresh and modern medium for sharing the stories of our departments and athletic teams. These podcasts are not just informative—they're fun, reflecting Brandon's ability to blend information with engagement seamlessly.
Beyond his technical skills, Brandon is a great listener, a trait that enables him to work collaboratively with various departments, intuitively meet their needs, and communicate information in a manner that resonates with students and community members alike. His meticulous review process of our website has resulted in a dynamic, appealing digital presence that not only elevates our college’s image but also strives to set a new standard for digital engagement in the community college sector.
For his outstanding contributions, his innovative approach to digital engagement, and his unwavering dedication to enhancing our college's presence both online and within the community, we believe Brandon Scheldt is very deserving of this award.
Mineral Area College is honored to nominate Brandon Scheldt for the Innovation Award in recognition of his contributions to revolutionizing our college’s digital presence. Brandon’s forward-thinking web strategies have infused our college community with an unparalleled level of excitement and engagement. His work is not limited to a single project; across the board, his efforts have impacted every department within our institution.
Brandon's dedication to overhauling the campus website is transforming it into a more vibrant and informative platform that showcases the strengths and offerings of our college in the most professional light. His adeptness at capturing and skillfully editing compelling images has directly led to the creation of web pages that not only engage but also inform students and the broader community about what makes our college unique.
Additionally, Brandon reintroduced podcasting to our college, creating a fresh and modern medium for sharing the stories of our departments and athletic teams. These podcasts are not just informative—they're fun, reflecting Brandon's ability to blend information with engagement seamlessly.
Beyond his technical skills, Brandon is a great listener, a trait that enables him to work collaboratively with various departments, intuitively meet their needs, and communicate information in a manner that resonates with students and community members alike. His meticulous review process of our website has resulted in a dynamic, appealing digital presence that not only elevates our college’s image but also strives to set a new standard for digital engagement in the community college sector.
For his outstanding contributions, his innovative approach to digital engagement, and his unwavering dedication to enhancing our college's presence both online and within the community, we believe Brandon Scheldt is very deserving of this award.
Dee Coleman | Nominated by Moberly Area Community College
Faculty
Dee Coleman has a passion for all things MACC. The list could go on forever of the things she does for students, faculty, staff, the Kirksville campus, and MACC as a whole. We nominate her for the MCCA Innovation award because of the “beyond regular duties” role she plays at MACC with the employee experience and employee growth. In this last year, she has successfully started a campus-wide MACC Leadership Group with a variety of employees in different roles and at different campuses. This group uses the model from the President’s Leadership Academy in which MACC employees had the opportunity to participate. She also started a college-wide book club using “The Energy Bus”. This club has 30 members. She has already had requests to run this book club again in the future! In the fall of 2023, Dee developed Microsoft Teams platform called “Team MACC”. This is a group for anyone and everyone at MACC. This team is a place to celebrate each other, encourage each other, and just get to know other employees. This forum has exploded with nearly 75 employees choosing to participate. The daily discussions range from sharing your favorite soup recipe to giving shout-outs to someone you admire, to what you are looking forward to that weekend. One of my favorite daily discussions was one around Thanksgiving asking members what they were thankful for. The responses poured in about employees being thankful for MACC, thankful for their jobs, and thankful for Dee and her willingness to manage and support this group. We are thankful for the work Dee Coleman does at MACC and she is so deserving of this award.
Dee Coleman has a passion for all things MACC. The list could go on forever of the things she does for students, faculty, staff, the Kirksville campus, and MACC as a whole. We nominate her for the MCCA Innovation award because of the “beyond regular duties” role she plays at MACC with the employee experience and employee growth. In this last year, she has successfully started a campus-wide MACC Leadership Group with a variety of employees in different roles and at different campuses. This group uses the model from the President’s Leadership Academy in which MACC employees had the opportunity to participate. She also started a college-wide book club using “The Energy Bus”. This club has 30 members. She has already had requests to run this book club again in the future! In the fall of 2023, Dee developed Microsoft Teams platform called “Team MACC”. This is a group for anyone and everyone at MACC. This team is a place to celebrate each other, encourage each other, and just get to know other employees. This forum has exploded with nearly 75 employees choosing to participate. The daily discussions range from sharing your favorite soup recipe to giving shout-outs to someone you admire, to what you are looking forward to that weekend. One of my favorite daily discussions was one around Thanksgiving asking members what they were thankful for. The responses poured in about employees being thankful for MACC, thankful for their jobs, and thankful for Dee and her willingness to manage and support this group. We are thankful for the work Dee Coleman does at MACC and she is so deserving of this award.
Rick Sharp | Nominated by North Central Missouri College
Industry Technology Instructor
North Central Missouri College would like to nominate Rick Sharp for the Innovation award. Not only is Rick very innovative with his classroom, he takes robotics to the next level. He encourages students to be excited about robotics, technology drones, and is an industry leader for robotics. This year, Rick started a SkillsUSA postsecondary chapter at NCMC. SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. NCMC's SkillsUSA robotics automation technology team competed in the Missouri SkillsUSA Robotics Automation Technology Competition held at State Tech in Linn, MO. The team took first place and qualified to compete at the National SkillsUSA conference. Through Rick's efforts to start the SkillsUSA chapter, incorporate robotics into learning, and compete at a national level, it has provided cutting-edge innovation and technology our Savannah Campus is known for.
North Central Missouri College would like to nominate Rick Sharp for the Innovation award. Not only is Rick very innovative with his classroom, he takes robotics to the next level. He encourages students to be excited about robotics, technology drones, and is an industry leader for robotics. This year, Rick started a SkillsUSA postsecondary chapter at NCMC. SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. NCMC's SkillsUSA robotics automation technology team competed in the Missouri SkillsUSA Robotics Automation Technology Competition held at State Tech in Linn, MO. The team took first place and qualified to compete at the National SkillsUSA conference. Through Rick's efforts to start the SkillsUSA chapter, incorporate robotics into learning, and compete at a national level, it has provided cutting-edge innovation and technology our Savannah Campus is known for.
SCC's Technology Building Redesign | Nominated by St. Charles Community College
In December 2022 St. Charles Community College (SCC) administration dedicated funds to redesign the Technology building. Programs in the technology building included Information Technology, Programming, Business, Accounting, Graphic Design, Multimedia, Web Development, and Business Technology. In many cases, the programs shared classrooms. The plan was to create specialty rooms for programs that require specific equipment and develop spaces that would invite students, faculty, and staff across campus to use these rooms in a collaborative manner.
Every room in the building retired Smartboards that were suffering “cognitive decline” and installed new brilliant high definition 70 to 86-inch touch screen monitors. That allowed for increased student engagement as students can now see the fine details of the display. Each room received a color accent wall eliminating the prior grey on grey color scheme and made the rooms brighter and more inviting.
Six classrooms were remodeled and now serve as five specialty spaces. A 2,100 square foot lab for technical and engineering students was created. Toolboxes and cabinets provide students with what they need to complete assignments such as mousetrap cars, catapults, and larger projects. The lab is equipped with two 86-inch monitors in view for all students and various power tools including bandsaw, grinders, drill press, and laser engraver\cutter. The entryway was enlarged from a single to double doors in anticipation of larger project builds such as solar cars that may need to exit the building in one piece.
The second specialty space houses the new eSports program and classroom for VR/AR and animation & gaming courses. Power lift tables, three 75-inch display monitors, high-end Alienware computers, large screen high-definition monitors, gaming chairs and LED lighting have transformed this room into a high-tech gaming center. St. Charles Community College’s athletic department is petitioning the National Junior College Athletic Association eSport division to join and begin competitive gaming in Fall 2024.
The third specialty space for Cybersecurity/Data Analytics/Global Information Systems can be found. This room serves as a large data center equipped with three 86-inch monitors at the front of the room and tiered student seating from front to back. Faculty are able to display cyber-attacks on one screen, lecture presentation material on another screen, and perhaps students joining the class remotely on the third screen. Students have a great view of all three monitors from any seat in class with the varied height rows of desks and stools.
The fourth space received permission to be named the Mark Twain Imaginarium. The classroom was designed and developed to be configured as needed with large 86-inch touch screen display monitors and four smaller 43-inch screens around the room for teams to work and collaborate. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to use this room to work with others on class projects, entrepreneurial ideas, or to invite business and industry in for speaker sessions. Students have access to both Mac and Windows computers. The four 43-inch monitors are set up for users to cast their laptops, share ideas, and collaborate with team members at their table or in remote locations through Zoom, Teams, or other collaboration software. Capstone courses for our AAS degree programs are taught in this room and students report that the space makes sharing ideas and working together in this manner feel more like what they expect in their job placements upon completion of their program. The room has open hours with lab monitoring at various times of the day for students to study or work with others in any course, not just courses taught in the technology building.
The fifth specialty space transformed an oddly shaped classroom with power outlet placements that made it difficult to configure traditional classroom and software demo teaching into a full video production & broadcast quality studio. This includes a 12 x 16-foot stage, a 15 x 15-foot green screen set, an 8 x 8-foot sound booth, and a separate but adjacent control room. The drop ceiling has been removed and the room has been painted to reduce light reflection. New equipment has been purchased to allow students the opportunity for hands-on experience in video production, directing, scripting, lighting, sound production, photography, and all other aspects of a working studio. The multimedia, performing arts, visual arts, graphic and interactive communications, marketing, business, and any other program on campus are welcome to schedule time to use the studio space.
The halls of the Tech building now have new LED lighting, brighter colors of paint on the poles near each classroom entry, and fresh carpeting has transformed the former drab monochrome hallways to vibrant and bright inviting corridors. Students appreciate the new seating and tables with built-in electrical outlets and charging ports. There are soft seats as well as bar height tables in the gathering areas of the halls that allow students to work together, talk, or enjoy a vending machine beverage or snack while taking in the fantastic view of the campus pond through the two-story windows. The hallway also has a new addition in the form of a podcast booth. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to create podcasts meeting their interests or the booth can be used to record voiceovers for assignments.
The entire project focused on ways to provide the highest impact on student success and engagement while remaining budget conscious. For example, chairs that were functional and sturdy but earmarked for disposal due to their unsalvageable fabrics were disassembled and seats and backs were sent to the correction facilities for reupholstery. (They look great and cost a fraction of the price of new task chairs.) Rex McKanry, the Dean in the building, championed these efforts. Adding windows from the hallway into the eSports, Cyber Security, Engineering and Imaginarium, and adding hallway monitors and magnetic glass boards on the walls outside the classrooms allow what is happening inside the classrooms to be showcased.
Quotes shared by faculty and students:
Every room in the building retired Smartboards that were suffering “cognitive decline” and installed new brilliant high definition 70 to 86-inch touch screen monitors. That allowed for increased student engagement as students can now see the fine details of the display. Each room received a color accent wall eliminating the prior grey on grey color scheme and made the rooms brighter and more inviting.
Six classrooms were remodeled and now serve as five specialty spaces. A 2,100 square foot lab for technical and engineering students was created. Toolboxes and cabinets provide students with what they need to complete assignments such as mousetrap cars, catapults, and larger projects. The lab is equipped with two 86-inch monitors in view for all students and various power tools including bandsaw, grinders, drill press, and laser engraver\cutter. The entryway was enlarged from a single to double doors in anticipation of larger project builds such as solar cars that may need to exit the building in one piece.
The second specialty space houses the new eSports program and classroom for VR/AR and animation & gaming courses. Power lift tables, three 75-inch display monitors, high-end Alienware computers, large screen high-definition monitors, gaming chairs and LED lighting have transformed this room into a high-tech gaming center. St. Charles Community College’s athletic department is petitioning the National Junior College Athletic Association eSport division to join and begin competitive gaming in Fall 2024.
The third specialty space for Cybersecurity/Data Analytics/Global Information Systems can be found. This room serves as a large data center equipped with three 86-inch monitors at the front of the room and tiered student seating from front to back. Faculty are able to display cyber-attacks on one screen, lecture presentation material on another screen, and perhaps students joining the class remotely on the third screen. Students have a great view of all three monitors from any seat in class with the varied height rows of desks and stools.
The fourth space received permission to be named the Mark Twain Imaginarium. The classroom was designed and developed to be configured as needed with large 86-inch touch screen display monitors and four smaller 43-inch screens around the room for teams to work and collaborate. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to use this room to work with others on class projects, entrepreneurial ideas, or to invite business and industry in for speaker sessions. Students have access to both Mac and Windows computers. The four 43-inch monitors are set up for users to cast their laptops, share ideas, and collaborate with team members at their table or in remote locations through Zoom, Teams, or other collaboration software. Capstone courses for our AAS degree programs are taught in this room and students report that the space makes sharing ideas and working together in this manner feel more like what they expect in their job placements upon completion of their program. The room has open hours with lab monitoring at various times of the day for students to study or work with others in any course, not just courses taught in the technology building.
The fifth specialty space transformed an oddly shaped classroom with power outlet placements that made it difficult to configure traditional classroom and software demo teaching into a full video production & broadcast quality studio. This includes a 12 x 16-foot stage, a 15 x 15-foot green screen set, an 8 x 8-foot sound booth, and a separate but adjacent control room. The drop ceiling has been removed and the room has been painted to reduce light reflection. New equipment has been purchased to allow students the opportunity for hands-on experience in video production, directing, scripting, lighting, sound production, photography, and all other aspects of a working studio. The multimedia, performing arts, visual arts, graphic and interactive communications, marketing, business, and any other program on campus are welcome to schedule time to use the studio space.
The halls of the Tech building now have new LED lighting, brighter colors of paint on the poles near each classroom entry, and fresh carpeting has transformed the former drab monochrome hallways to vibrant and bright inviting corridors. Students appreciate the new seating and tables with built-in electrical outlets and charging ports. There are soft seats as well as bar height tables in the gathering areas of the halls that allow students to work together, talk, or enjoy a vending machine beverage or snack while taking in the fantastic view of the campus pond through the two-story windows. The hallway also has a new addition in the form of a podcast booth. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to create podcasts meeting their interests or the booth can be used to record voiceovers for assignments.
The entire project focused on ways to provide the highest impact on student success and engagement while remaining budget conscious. For example, chairs that were functional and sturdy but earmarked for disposal due to their unsalvageable fabrics were disassembled and seats and backs were sent to the correction facilities for reupholstery. (They look great and cost a fraction of the price of new task chairs.) Rex McKanry, the Dean in the building, championed these efforts. Adding windows from the hallway into the eSports, Cyber Security, Engineering and Imaginarium, and adding hallway monitors and magnetic glass boards on the walls outside the classrooms allow what is happening inside the classrooms to be showcased.
Quotes shared by faculty and students:
- “Multiple screens for the instructor were a plus, allowing me to quickly go from one screen/document during a lecture.” Jack Halfacre – Adjunct Professor Information Technology
- “The only things I have heard came from students who had taken classes and/or toured the classrooms over the semester. I heard them comment that it was high tech. They commented on the student friendly set up in the hallway on both levels.”
- “Students liked taking business classes in the new environment.”
- “The industry leaders [and other stakeholders] we brought to the Advisory meetings this spring commented on the fact that the building was, as Mel Jones of Hub international put it, high-tech and unexpected from a community college. “
- “Seating in the classroom was very comfortable.”
- “Students could use rooms to study or work on projects.”
- “The ability to adjust the rooms, tables and seating makes it agile enough to conduct any teaching format and course need such as small groups, team meetings, guest speakers and more.”
- “Visually, the faculty had ease of facilitation and numerous tools. This is one comment heard from a student.”
- “From my perspective, we have what is comparable to UMSL only on a smaller scale due to the size of UMSL.”
- “The ‘study cube’ in the hallway, the ability to sit around and prepare for class ahead of time, and walking into a classroom updated and not outdated impressed others.”
- “I hope this helps. Honestly, we talked about this in several of my classes over the semester.”
- “I forgot to add in the ability to teach such diverse courses with the state of the art equipment and technology.”
- “The fact that you and a team were able to create, build and have the building ready for students in a short period of time and before they graduated was very impressive and timely.” Jeri Pilarski Schultz, Associate Professor, Business
- “It is amazing! You wouldn't recognize the building if you had been off campus for a semester. The classrooms are more welcoming because of the new desks and added light from the hallways (walls were amended/removed to add windows.) Now, as you walk down the hallway, students can now look into class-rooms to see what is going on within. The wall colors, student tables, desks and comfortable chairs in the hallways have all been replaced or substituted with similar items of bright energetic colors. They provide a cheery welcome when students are waiting for classes or doing work before their classes begin. There are even lounge chairs that have plugins available for laptops or phones.”
- “In the classroom, the wall-to-wall monitors where faculty can show power-points, videos and examples (all at the same time) are state of the art and increase student engagement because they enable a more dynamic learning environment.”
- “The screening room/classroom (what I call it) is a collaborative place that includes a buffered sound room, camera/recording equipment and a green wall with stage. Students can collaborate to create recorded commercials, marketing ads, etc. This room has faculty brainstorming on how to share the space to allow students to showcase their creativity in demonstrating their understanding of topics covered in the classroom.”
- “The magnetic hallway-wall outside of the art and design classrooms are a quick way for students to showcase their work and it is constantly changing. Other students can see what classes are doing and the students love to share their work.”
- The Podcast booth (aka the Cougar's Den) is an exciting addition.. Can't wait to hear the first podcast!
- And, of course, the computer gaming room. Wow!” Anna Boulware, Professor Accounting
- More opportunities to bring hands-on experiences to students in Engineering. They now have workbenches at proper heights for project work rather than using classrooms and typical desks as the work surface. Student clubs have facilities and actual equipment and double doors to take on larger projects. Students appreciate the dedicated space to house the tools and equipment necessary to ideate, create, and store their projects.
PREP Squad (Program Review Effectiveness Project) | Nominated by State Fair Community College
Overview:
The scope of the project is to improve the effectiveness of academic program and discipline review for the overarching viability purposes of 1) program economics, 2) performance, and 3) career placement. This will be done by developing and implementing an improved review
process that is aligned with the college’s mission, strategic planning efforts, and endeavors for process improvement.
Although program review is not new, there are two aspects to innovation that this project portrays. First aspect is the process in which this task force structured the management of these effort gaining requirements, determining technologies and integrations, and scoping the size of the initial effort and future additions. The program management of this effort is extremely structured, involves all stakeholders from faculty/staff to mid-level management to leadership team to President to Board of Trustees. Second aspect includes the automation, technologies, and procedural changes to provide a much more robust program review that would be integrated into program viability, outcomes assessment, curriculum development, program strategic plans, resource requirements, human resources, and budget inputs that fit into the college’s annual planning cycle.
Originally, the primary purpose of the annual program review was for all academic disciplines and technical programs at State Fair Community College to be evaluated for sustainability based on their program viability (PV), with the objective to determine the continuation or termination of the program/discipline and/or determine if the program/discipline needs enhancements and additional resources. The version being upgraded provides the same features; however, has provided tremendous amount of automation of pulling data from multiple data sources versus manual calculations and double-entry into multiple systems to apprise leadership of program information.
Innovative:
The Program Review Effectiveness Project is revolutionizing how programs and disciplines at SFCC reflect upon their performance in terms of student and program outcomes, as well as strengths and challenges. Developed with deliberate attention to faculty input, the new process also accentuates planning and improvement based on the reflective data and emphasizes communication and “closing the loop” between faculty and administrators, bringing more meaning to the process.
Process
The project management process on the surface may not seem innovative; however, such processes including open communication channels with stakeholders, encouraging creative problem-solving, researching new technologies and methods that might help, and partnering with external experts for fresh insights and skills are innovative when implemented versus just reading in a textbook. Innovation in project management can be effectively understood and implemented through a structured approach that integrates creative thinking with systematic processes. Here’s how innovation can be explained and nurtured using PREP Squad’s processes:
The Program Review Effectiveness Project sought quantitative (survey) and qualitative (focus group) input from faculty stakeholders to determine what obstacles were impeding academic reviews from maximizing their intended purposes (identifying areas for improvement, making meaningful changes, and improving quality of all programs). A cross-functional team then worked to devise strategies to overcome those obstacles.
By embedding these practices into the project management lifecycle, SFCC is enhancing our ability to innovate, ensuring that new ideas are systematically developed, tested, and implemented effectively.
Technology and Data Availability
Additionally, this endeavor will provide new technologies and data integration to support additional functionalities that span across the college’s planning cycle. Additional functions and data mining functions include:
The first benefit will be the cultural change FROM the skewed emphasis that program review was primarily to build budget inputs TO program assessment and improvement recommendations with requested resources to be successful. The second benefit includes the increased communication to “close the loop” that has undercut faculty/staff confidence in the current process.
Improves quality of a particular process, program, or instructional course and results in better outcomes
The Program Review Effectiveness Project is intended to be simply the college’s assessment tool to allow continuous improvement in all services supporting our students (academic and support services). It will review the cost to the student, performance for industry needs, and career placements of graduates – evaluating our ROI for each service. Although the initial phase will focus on academic programs and disciplines, this same concept and process will be used to determine and build service review procedures and tools. See diagram below:
Improvements to the process include:
Overall, this innovative approach continues the SFCC journey to expand the culture of continuous process improvement within all student services AND to integrate our annual lifecycle of procedures to develop priorities, projects, budget, and goals for the upcoming academic year to promote our strategic plan. The actual tools and automated procedures will minimize (hopefully eliminate) silos and produce increased collaboration across all departments to develop the college’s annual areas of focus.
Replicated in other areas and/or at other institutions
Internal
This review and revision of program/discipline review will be replicated to develop a more effective process for non-academic departmental reviews. In addition, all reviews (academic and support) will be congregated to provide all levels of leadership data-driven decision making. Additionally, SFCC has expanded its thoughts on data mining, data reliability, and predictive analytics.
Additionally, the technology and software for this project will be used to provide similar capabilities in areas such as The LearningForce, SFCC non-credit department, to evaluate business procedures, as well as within the college’s Project Management tools that are being developed to administer all levels of projects within the college.
External
This concept and procedures would be extremely beneficial to any community college, especially those with Career and Technical Education programs. The PREP Squad team has submitted a proposal to present at MCCA conference in November to share its success with other institutions.
The scope of the project is to improve the effectiveness of academic program and discipline review for the overarching viability purposes of 1) program economics, 2) performance, and 3) career placement. This will be done by developing and implementing an improved review
process that is aligned with the college’s mission, strategic planning efforts, and endeavors for process improvement.
Although program review is not new, there are two aspects to innovation that this project portrays. First aspect is the process in which this task force structured the management of these effort gaining requirements, determining technologies and integrations, and scoping the size of the initial effort and future additions. The program management of this effort is extremely structured, involves all stakeholders from faculty/staff to mid-level management to leadership team to President to Board of Trustees. Second aspect includes the automation, technologies, and procedural changes to provide a much more robust program review that would be integrated into program viability, outcomes assessment, curriculum development, program strategic plans, resource requirements, human resources, and budget inputs that fit into the college’s annual planning cycle.
Originally, the primary purpose of the annual program review was for all academic disciplines and technical programs at State Fair Community College to be evaluated for sustainability based on their program viability (PV), with the objective to determine the continuation or termination of the program/discipline and/or determine if the program/discipline needs enhancements and additional resources. The version being upgraded provides the same features; however, has provided tremendous amount of automation of pulling data from multiple data sources versus manual calculations and double-entry into multiple systems to apprise leadership of program information.
Innovative:
The Program Review Effectiveness Project is revolutionizing how programs and disciplines at SFCC reflect upon their performance in terms of student and program outcomes, as well as strengths and challenges. Developed with deliberate attention to faculty input, the new process also accentuates planning and improvement based on the reflective data and emphasizes communication and “closing the loop” between faculty and administrators, bringing more meaning to the process.
Process
The project management process on the surface may not seem innovative; however, such processes including open communication channels with stakeholders, encouraging creative problem-solving, researching new technologies and methods that might help, and partnering with external experts for fresh insights and skills are innovative when implemented versus just reading in a textbook. Innovation in project management can be effectively understood and implemented through a structured approach that integrates creative thinking with systematic processes. Here’s how innovation can be explained and nurtured using PREP Squad’s processes:
- Phase 1 - Establish baseline measures for the effectiveness of purposes/uses o Survey all faculty for quantitative data regarding the application and
- Phase 2 - Gather qualitative data from faculty and academic administration o Conduct in-person focus groups of faculty who complete reviews to
- Phase 3 - Develop action plans for improving effectiveness/Communicate and report-out
- Determine technologies to be used to provide requirements gained from phases 1 and 2.
- Report out to all faculty regarding what the PREP Squad is working on to make Program/Discipline Review more effective, based on their input
- Determine technologies to be used to provide requirements gained from phases 1 and 2.
- Phase 4 - Implement action plans
- Phase 5 - Re-assess effectiveness of purposes/uses
The Program Review Effectiveness Project sought quantitative (survey) and qualitative (focus group) input from faculty stakeholders to determine what obstacles were impeding academic reviews from maximizing their intended purposes (identifying areas for improvement, making meaningful changes, and improving quality of all programs). A cross-functional team then worked to devise strategies to overcome those obstacles.
By embedding these practices into the project management lifecycle, SFCC is enhancing our ability to innovate, ensuring that new ideas are systematically developed, tested, and implemented effectively.
Technology and Data Availability
Additionally, this endeavor will provide new technologies and data integration to support additional functionalities that span across the college’s planning cycle. Additional functions and data mining functions include:
- HLC accreditation reporting; program accreditation support; DESE’s requirement to complete Common Criteria and Quality Indicators (CCQI) for CTE programs; and inputs to SFCC curriculum approval process to include internal and external agencies.
- Propagate the program budget data to support building the division budgets – division budget data to support building the overall academic budget – finally the overall budget will be built from bottom-up through the review process.
- Provide inputs to guide the budget proposals for Perkins, DESE 50/50, and Enhancement grants, which align with overall budget development.
- Similar bottom-up approach as budget, will generate needed resources, IT needs, equipment, personnel, and other non-instructional needs.
- Consolidate professional development needs to allow Teaching & Learning Center to gain inputs from all faculty.
- Provides dashboards for all levels of stakeholders.
The first benefit will be the cultural change FROM the skewed emphasis that program review was primarily to build budget inputs TO program assessment and improvement recommendations with requested resources to be successful. The second benefit includes the increased communication to “close the loop” that has undercut faculty/staff confidence in the current process.
Improves quality of a particular process, program, or instructional course and results in better outcomes
The Program Review Effectiveness Project is intended to be simply the college’s assessment tool to allow continuous improvement in all services supporting our students (academic and support services). It will review the cost to the student, performance for industry needs, and career placements of graduates – evaluating our ROI for each service. Although the initial phase will focus on academic programs and disciplines, this same concept and process will be used to determine and build service review procedures and tools. See diagram below:
Improvements to the process include:
- Differentiated data requirements based on discipline or program needs
- Development of a uniform “playbook” that guides users through a process of Reflection and Planning
- Simplifying data collection process with a single dashboard display for each user
- Time allocation during a Fall Break to collaborate and complete Playbooks
- Collaboration and communication opportunities intentionally built into the annual process
- Playbooks designed to focus on planning and improvement, with budget as a byproduct rather than the focus
- Faculty buy-in and gain respect for purpose of improvement
- Adoption of technology tools that allow users to access and revise
- Reflections and Playbooks on demand while also maintaining a static archive
- Development of comprehensive and on-going training
Overall, this innovative approach continues the SFCC journey to expand the culture of continuous process improvement within all student services AND to integrate our annual lifecycle of procedures to develop priorities, projects, budget, and goals for the upcoming academic year to promote our strategic plan. The actual tools and automated procedures will minimize (hopefully eliminate) silos and produce increased collaboration across all departments to develop the college’s annual areas of focus.
Replicated in other areas and/or at other institutions
Internal
This review and revision of program/discipline review will be replicated to develop a more effective process for non-academic departmental reviews. In addition, all reviews (academic and support) will be congregated to provide all levels of leadership data-driven decision making. Additionally, SFCC has expanded its thoughts on data mining, data reliability, and predictive analytics.
Additionally, the technology and software for this project will be used to provide similar capabilities in areas such as The LearningForce, SFCC non-credit department, to evaluate business procedures, as well as within the college’s Project Management tools that are being developed to administer all levels of projects within the college.
External
This concept and procedures would be extremely beneficial to any community college, especially those with Career and Technical Education programs. The PREP Squad team has submitted a proposal to present at MCCA conference in November to share its success with other institutions.
