HCC celebrates staff during Employee Appreciation Day

Special to The Herald

WELDON — On May 8, Halifax Community College hosted an employee appreciation luncheon to honor the achievements and milestones of its dedicated employees. According to a press release, David Forester, Verna High, Iris Johnson, Tara Keeter and Margaret Murga, all of whom retired or will retire during this academic year, were honored. HCC President Patrena B. Elliott recognized the retirees, saying, “Congratulations to our retirees on reaching a well-deserved milestone! You have earned the right to unwind and enjoy the benefits of your hard work.”

Faculty and staff who reached milestones in their years of service to the college for five, 10 and 15 years were also recognized. These are the honorees:

Five years of service

Tia Alfonso, Reginald Byrd, Phyllis Chavis, Vanessa Council, Tonia Lashley, Victor Marrow, Thomas Mims, Antiana Perry, David Plonski and Sonya Robinson.

Ten years of service

Sharonda Gordon, Angela Randolph and Samuel Wade.

Fifteen years of serviceTiffany Hale.

Distinguished service awards were presented to faculty and staff for the following categories:

Excellence in Teaching Full TimeThis award is presented to the HCC faculty member who exemplifies the highest quality and standards of instruction. The objective of this award is to identify and recognize faculty who consistently demonstrate excellence in teaching to their students and the college. The recipient is Jason Bone.

Excellence in Teaching Part TimeThis award is presented to the HCC faculty member who exemplifies the highest quality and standards of instruction.

The objective of this award is to identify and recognize faculty who consistently demonstrate excellence in teaching to their students and the college. The recipient is Annabelle Anderton.

Excellence in Academic AdvisingThis award is presented to the HCC faculty member who exemplifies the highest standards of advising students at Halifax Community College. The recipient is Jason Shotwell.

Staff AwardThis award is presented to the HCC staff member who demonstrates consistent and excellent performance on the job, leadership in the workplace, and significant contributions to the advancement of HCC and its students. The recipient is Antonio Squire.

Innovator AwardThis award is presented to the HCC employee who has implemented a fresh or new idea that addresses the mission of the college. The recipient is Vanessa A. Council.

Spirit AwardThis award is presented to the HCC employee who exemplifies cooperation and enthusiasm and serves as a positive reflection of the college’s mission.

The recipient is Jordan Richardson.

Presidential Leadership AwardThis award is presented to an employee that has demonstrated outstanding leadership in support of Halifax Community College’s mission. The recipient is Julie Galvin. Both the Excellence in Teaching-Full Time Award and Staff Award are prestigious statewide honors, and the individuals who receive them this year will have the opportunity to compete at the state level for the same accolade.

“Congratulations to the faculty and staff of Halifax Community College for inspiring our students to think critically and strive for greatness,” the release reads. “Your dedication and support have created a thriving community of educators and learners. Your pursuit of excellence is commendable and deeply appreciated. We are proud to have you on our team.”Gratitude was expressed to Enviva and Thomas Construction Company Enterprises Inc. for their unwavering support as sponsors.