Eyes on You Award
Fall 2011 Eyes on You Winners
From l-r: Mattie Thomas, Kim Kaylor, Amy Bruining, Jennifer Ennis
Mel Gay was nominated by Phillip Lopp, who spoke about Mel's dedication to student success and the College, as well as his devotion to his CPCC “family.” Mel takes every opportunity to demonstrate his commitment to returning veterans, making significant contributions to their support at CPCC. Mel "inspires not by words but by modeling every day what he teaches.” His colleagues appreciate his quiet leadership, calming disposition, and generous support of them and their work. Mel has the ability to make everyone around him feel as though they can accomplish anything. Even though he is a leader at the College, he never hesitates to “roll up his sleeves” and do whatever needs to be done.
Amy Bruining was nominated by Nichole Patterson, who said that Amy is constantly looking for "teachable moments.” She is someone who is both a life-long learner and a teacher of others, all done during the course of her daily activities. Amy is open to new processes and approaches, having successfully implemented several improvements in her department. Her colleagues appreciate her patience when she is helping others understand complex processes. She consistently provides timely assistance to students and colleagues. Amy does not worry about turf issues, but always strives to solve the problem or find the answer. Amy's professionalism is a model for the entire College.
Jennifer Ennis was nominated by James Johnson, who described her as “Wonder Woman with special powers” because of her efforts in making the Procurement Department run so smoothly. Although she does not teach in a classroom, she teaches those with whom she works, and gladly shares her expertise. She also helps faculty obtain the equipment and supplies they need to create a positive learning environment. She is known as a professional who is efficient, empathetic, and supportive.
Mattie Thomas was nominated coincidently by both Gloria Reddon and Sheila Clemons who each praised her professionalism. Mattie is a valued team member who generates the positive, high-energy atmosphere vital to the front desk of Human Resources. She is flexible, open to change and new ideas, and eager to learn. Mattie takes initiative, and in doing so, makes her role and contributions extend beyond the front desk. Her colleagues describe Mattie as caring, warm, thorough, and responsive. Mattie never seems to tire of assisting others and always does so with a smile and a helping spirit.
Kim Kaylor was nominated by Leesa Whicker, who described Kim as someone who does everything she can to make sure CPCC students have the best learning environment possible. Kim's volunteer work with students in the Medical Assisting Program is exemplary and much appreciated. Providing supplemental instruction on the importance of proper processing and patient education helps make our graduates some of the best-prepared medical assistants in the field. Her colleagues describe her as the "Energizer Bunny" of the Health Sciences Division. All of her co-workers see Kim as a cheerleader, a coach, and a caretaker.
“Eyes on You Award” Nominees for Fall 2011
Amy Burns was nominated by Betty Baker who praised Amy’s commitment to "continually thinking about what would benefit students and staff.” Betty spoke enthusiastically about how instrumental Amy was in securing a much-needed dedicated study room for student groups. Amy started a book club for employees and invited Rick Helms to discuss his books and the world of publishing. Amy is admired for her collaboration across units. Her colleagues at the Levine Campus describe Amy as a very hard worker, resourceful, and always willing to help in any way she can. They also said that Amy's enthusiasm and laughter are contagious.
Mark Coltrain was nominated by Kimberley Balcos who said, "Mark does not operate at half measure. If there is a way to improve a process, he will find it and follow through to put it in action.” Mark always looks for ways to provide high-quality service to faculty by developing tools and asking for feedback on items he has developed. Mark was described as an exemplary employee, one who has a positive attitude, admirable patience, and a genuine interest in the success of others. His colleagues describe him as a highly professional, exceedingly motivated, effective, and engaging communicator. Students ask for "the cool guy in the library" when looking for Mark. Everyone finds Mark approachable, helpful, and extremely collaborative.
Belinda Morrow was nominated by Rosa Clyburn. Rosa described Belinda as a “warm extension of the Student Records Department.” In a department that is always busy and sometimes hectic, Belinda always takes time to assist staff and faculty with cordiality and professionalism. She is admired for her openness to new ideas and better ways of doing things. Her colleagues said that Belinda is a reliable and diligent worker with an eye for detail. They also said that her empathy encourages students to ask questions to ensure that they receive what they need. Belinda's efforts have helped make the Student Records Department an efficient and effective service for students and staff.
Heather Hanson was nominated by Betty Granger who stated that Heather always gets her work done in a humble and unassuming way. Betty went on to say that Heather approaches each task with an energy and enthusiasm that leaves others in awe. Her colleagues admire her spirit of teamwork. She is admired for being a consummate customer service representative and professional in every situation. People enjoy working with her because of her commitment to students and learning.
Joyce Crager was nominated by Michael Hood who praised her commitment to Central Piedmont Community College. She spends countless hours training new employees in all areas of Admissions, Registration, and Student Records. Joyce is someone who looks for opportunities to share her knowledge, whether it is teaching a student how to register for classes or training a new cashier how to interpret screens in Colleague. Joyce is admired for her willingness to listen to other employees' ideas and then to implement those ideas when appropriate, always sharing credit. She is competent, has a pleasant demeanor, and a collaborative spirit. She communicates well with others and make the campus a more inviting place to learn and to work.
Catalina Ramirez was nominated by Jorge "Coqui" Koochoi. He described Catalina as supportive and encouraging with a generous nature. Coqui applauded Catalina's efforts to help faculty develop hybrid and online classes. In addition, because of Catalina's interest in research and in-depth understanding of CPCC, she encourages discussion which promotes a learning-centered college. Catalina is admired for her positive outlook and her willingness to go the extra mile. Her co-workers admire her ability to remain calm in high-stress situations while seeking a win-win solution.
Mel Gay was nominated by Phillip Lopp who spoke about Mel's commitment to the College, his dedication to student success, and devotion to his CPCC “family.” Mel takes every opportunity to demonstrate his commitment to returning veterans, and has made significant contributions to the support of veterans at CPCC. Mel "inspires not by words but by modeling every day what he teaches.” His colleagues appreciate his quiet leadership, calming disposition, and generous support of them and their work. Mel has the ability to make everyone around him feel as though they can accomplish anything. Even though he is a leader at the College, he never hesitates to “roll up his sleeves” and do whatever needs to be done.
Amy Bruining was nominated by Nichole Patterson who said that Amy is constantly looking for "teachable moments.” She is someone who is both a life-long learner and a teacher of others, all done during the course of her daily activities. Amy is open to new processes and approaches, having successfully implemented several in her departments over the years. Her colleagues appreciate her patience when she is helping others understand complex processes. She consistently provides timely assistance to students, staff, and colleagues. Amy does not think about turf, but always strives to solve the problem or find the answer. Amy's professionalism is a model for the entire College.
Mattie Thomas was nominated coincidently by Gloria Reddon and by Sheila Clemons who both praised her professionalism. Mattie is a valued team member who generates the positive, high-energy atmosphere vital to the front desk of Human Resources. She is flexible, open to change and new ideas, and quick to learn. Mattie takes initiative, and in doing so, has made her role and contributions expand beyond the front desk. Her colleagues describe Mattie as caring, warm, thorough, and responsive. She has a reputation as someone who goes the extra mile to find the answer. Mattie never seems to tire of assisting others and always does so with a smile and a helping spirit.
Monica Crawford was nominated by Leonard Russ. Leonard described Monica's commitment to professionalism and said that she fosters close, caring relationships with her students and co-workers. Monica demonstrates excellence, and although Monica has high standards for herself and others, she provides the support and encouragement needed to help students achieve their educational goals. Monica is admired for her love of learning, mastery of emerging technologies, and adherence to the learning college philosophy. Her colleagues at the Harris Campus describe her as someone who is available to troubleshoot and provide solutions to students and colleagues. They also said that she accepts any challenge that makes the system, the team, the students, or the College better.
Halemo Gulied was nominated by Joan Stradford. Halemo discourages students from "compromising their character" and encourages honesty in the Testing Center. Joan spoke intently of his willingness to adjust his schedule to meet the needs of students and co-workers. Halemo is admired for his organizational skills and commitment to developing the spirit of teamwork. His traits have helped foster a professional environment and made it a better place to work. His colleagues describe him as conscientious and dedicated. Halemo addresses his job responsibilities with professionalism and a smile which make working with him a pleasure.
Norma Henry was nominated by Gregory Tucker who spoke of her tireless efforts working with sponsored students. The assistance that she provides to students helps them achieve their academic goals by making it financially possible for them to pursue their college education. Not only is Norma a catalyst for student learning, but also a catalyst for staff learning as well. Her colleagues at the Levine Campus describe Norma as one of the most helpful, generous, considerate, and fun-loving people around. They also said that she is able to provide students with fast, efficient service, all the while maintaining a positive outlook.
Kim Kaylor was nominated by Leesa Whicker who described Kim as someone who does everything she can to make sure CPCC students have the best learning environment possible. As an example, Leesa mentioned Kim's tireless efforts to help students raise money for the additional outside training that is required. Kim's volunteer work with students in the Medical Assisting Program is exemplary and much appreciated. Providing supplemental instruction on the importance of proper processing and patient education helps make our graduates some of the best-prepared medical assistants in the field. Kim does this without compensation or reward. Her colleagues describe her as the "Energizer Bunny" of the Health Sciences Division. Kim is seen as a cheerleader, a coach, and a caretaker by all of her co-workers. CPCC could not have a better representative.
Fay Foster was nominated by Quincy Foil who described her as creative, hard-working, detail-oriented, and tireless. Her colleagues appreciate her willingness to “pitch in” and do whatever is needed to get the job done, whether it is tying bows or loading tables. Fay is one of those rare individuals who does not draw boundaries regarding the scope of her job. If it needs doing, people know they can call on Fay. As event coordinator, Fay has the magical ability to make complicated and elaborate events appear effortless. She is an unsung hero who brings beauty, excitement, and drama to the College.
Jennifer Ennis was nominated by James Johnson who described her as “Wonder Woman with special powers” because of her efforts in making the Procurement Department run so smoothly. Although she does not teach in a classroom, she teaches those with whom she works and gladly shares her expertise. She also helps faculty obtain the equipment and supplies they need to create a positive learning environment. She is known as a professional who is efficient, empathetic, and supportive.
