2025 Clark Employee Awards

Clark employees recognized at annual Opening Day celebration

By Malena Goerl, Staff Writer, Communications & Marketing

On September 15, hundreds of employees gathered for Clark’s annual Opening Day celebration, where they kicked off the 2025-26 academic year. During the event, staff and faculty members were recognized for their distinguished service and accomplishments. Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients! Read more about the Opening Day festivities. 

Exceptional Faculty Awards

group photo on stageLeft to right: Dr. William "Terry" Brown, Robert Weston, Allison Syes, Chris Smith, Melanie Hendry, Jill Darly-Vanis, and Joe Cha stand on stage after receiving their awards.

The Clark College Exceptional Faculty Awards are presented annually to full-time and part-time faculty members. This includes instructors, librarians, counselors, and department heads, in recognition of exemplary work performance, their positive impact on students, professional commitment, and notable contributions to the college. 

Nominations can be submitted by students, faculty, classified employees, administrators, alumni, board members, and Foundation directors, with students particularly encouraged to submit nominations. 

Congratulations to this year’s recipients, and look for 24/7 story features on each winner in the coming weeks.

Joe Cha, Business

Before coming to Clark, Joe built a remarkable career in business, serving as an executive with companies like Yahoo. But it was community college that changed his family’s life, and teaching here has brought things full circle. Since joining Clark in 2023, he has poured his energy into continuous improvement—for his students and himself. His students remark that his humor and real-world examples make economics accessible. They describe his kind and engaging teaching style as one that always meets them where they are, while still challenging them to think in new ways. But above all, Joe hopes to help his students better understand the world around them. 

Jill Darley-Vanis, English

Jill has a way of making literature come alive. For 25 years, she has brought light, joy, and passion into her classroom. Her students describe her as vibrant, patient, selfless, and confident. They praise her instruction, grateful for the way she strengthens their writing and helps them recognize their own strengths. Even more, Jill inspires a joy of reading. Whether it’s a student’s final literature class or one of many, she shows them the power of reading—how it shapes how we see the world, connect with others, and even participate in democracy. As she prepares to teach in Dublin next fall, Jill continues to build confidence, foster curiosity, and create spaces where every voice is heard and respected. 

Melanie Hendry, Culinary

Food is in Chef Melanie’s DNA. She grew up baking with her grandmother in England, a passion that followed her around the globe until she found herself in an Italian bakery, which she considers the true start of her baking career. At Clark, she brings that same love of food and community into the classroom. She is a patient, warm, and inspiring presence—an instructor who encourages them to learn from their mistakes and infuse their own stories into baking. Whether she is collaborating on projects across campus, expanding the retail bakery, or doing what she loves the most—teaching students the joy of baking bread—Chef Melanie always creates a space where confidence and creativity thrive.

James “Ron” Powers, Business

Ron brings more than 30 years of corporate experience into his classroom. But his true focus isn’t what’s on his resume. It’s on the students, and what they carry with them when they leave. For Ron, it's about inspiring confidence and helping them refine their strengths. A proud U.S. army veteran and a lifelong learner, Ron has taught at Clark for 11 years, as well as advising the Student Veterans of America Club and extending his teaching to Larch Correctional Center. He does this all with the belief that students should feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow, not just academically, but professionally and personally as well. 

Chris Smith, English

A first-generation college student himself, Chris knows about the power of education. His mother always told him: education is something no one can take away from you, and Chris impresses this upon his students every day. He joined the Clark team in 2015 after a chance encounter with the department’s outgoing adjunct coordinator. That one moment made all the difference, and, ten years later, Chris continues to make an impact on his students. They describe him as life-changing, a mentor who listens and encourages them to discover their strengths and follow their passions. A champion for equity in grading and language, he fosters conversations that make Clark an inclusive space. 

Allison Syes, Fine Arts

Allie’s teaching philosophy can be summarized as: Have fun! Work hard! Learn lots! And it’s not hard to see that philosophy in action. Step into any of her metal arts classes, and you will witness her careful approach to curriculum—a balance of explanation, demonstration, practice, and feedback. But her outstanding qualities go beyond skill-building. Allie also takes the time to get to know each student, engaging them in conversation and fostering a community within her classroom. One student stated: “Allie pours her energy, enthusiasm, and talents into ensuring the learning, personal growth, and success of all students who find their way into Metal Arts at Clark College. She epitomizes faculty excellence.” 

Robert Weston, Mathematics

For the past 10 years, Robert has built a reputation for setting high expectations for his students, while giving them the high support they need to reach them. In his classes, students don’t just listen to lectures. They are empowered to work together, ask questions, and build the kind of skills that help them succeed beyond the classroom. Robert is known for his compassion, his creativity, and—if you’ve ever seen the snacks at Bauer Hall—for making sure students are fed, because, as he likes to remind them, “hungry students can't learn well.” As a faculty leader and former department chair, he has been a strong advocate for accessibility, inclusivity, and student-centered teaching across our campus. 

two people with award on stageJames "Ron" Powers, left, received his award from Dr. William "Terry" Brown at the annual all-instruction meeting on Wednesday, September 17.

Exceptional Administrative-Exempt Award

The Clark College Exceptional Administrative-Exempt Award honors an Exempt staff member who contributes in significant ways toward building a positive climate, inclusive environment, and improving the quality of life at Clark.

Person with awardJulie Donovan holds her award.

  • April Cannon, Advising Services 
  • Diane Devore, Advising Services 
  • Julie Donovan, Grants Development 
  • Darci Feider, Office of the President 
  • Ronniesha Ford-Spears, Enrollment Services 
  • Degundrea Harris, ODEI 
  • Andrew Hillger, Information Technology Services 
  • Megan Jasurda, Disability Access Center 
  • Theo Koupelis, WPTE & STEM 
  • Román Lara Alvarado, MESA 
  • Mike Law, ODEI 
  • Maggie Li, International Programs 
  • Thao Schmidt, Human Resources 
  • Jody Shulnak, International Programs 

Congratulations to Julie Donovan, Grants Development

Julie Donovan was nominated by two colleagues who described her as deeply dedicated. Always thorough and well-prepared, she has high standards for her own work while continually encouraging collaboration and inviting feedback from others. She has stepped up to lead critical initiatives, created valuable resources, and ensured complex projects stayed on track. With her calm demeanor and sense of humor, Julie puts others at ease, even in challenging situations, and she consistently applies principles learned to further diversity and inclusion efforts at Clark.

Exceptional Classified Staff Awards

Clark College recognizes its many outstanding classified staff through two awards programs: the Annual Exceptional Classified Staff Award and the Quarterly Classified Staff Excellence Award. Recipients are presented with awards and, thanks to the generous support of the Clark College Foundation, cash awards! 

Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees:

  • Michael Aguirre, Credential Evaluations 
  • Angelina Albulov, Social Sciences & Fine Arts 
  • Dena Al-Mousawi, Office of VP Student Affairs 
  • Dennis Blew, Enrollment Services 
  • Courtney Braddock, Accounting Services 
  • Juniper Colville, WPTE & STEM 
  • Russell Costa, Custodial Services 
  • Marla Derrick, Athletics 
  • Kelly Eagan, Transitional Studies Division 
  • Heidi Eckman, Bookstore 
  • Trish Fitzsimons, Community & Continuing Education 
  • Amanda Harlan, Workforce Education Services 
  • Linda Healy, Advising 
  • Sara Irons, Child & Family Services 
  • Koda Leab, Enrollment Services 
  • Manda Levie, Social Sciences & Fine Arts 
  • Katie Massey, Disability Access Center 
  • Laurel Mitchell, Accounting Services 
  • Ken Pruett, Information Technology Services 
  • Tiffany Saari, WPTE & STEM 
  • Jacob Salomon, Human Resources 
  • Joanne Savage, Office of Instruction 
  • Amy Tam, Entry Services 
  • Katie Wallis, WPTE & STEM 
  • Shelly Williams, Fine Art Division 
  • Xiaoxue Xing, Child & Family Services 
  • Carly Rae Zent, Communications & Marketing 

two people with awardsLeft to right: Manda Levie and Trish Fitzsimons hold their awards.

Congratulations to this year’s winners: Trish Fitzsimons and Manda Levie! 

Trish Fitzsimons, Community & Continuing Education

Since joining Clark in 2023, Trish has shown incredible dedication. She’s gone above and beyond—taking on the Pearson Vue testing center, improving efficiency, and even helping to cut the unit’s budget deficit in half. But what really stands out is that her work isn’t just about numbers. It’s about people. Trish connects with individuals who have diverse cultures, languages, gender identities, and life experiences. Through that genuine engagement, she helps break down communication obstacles and creates a real sense of belonging for those we serve. 

Manda Levie, Social Sciences & Fine Arts

Manda has been part of the Clark community since 2013, and her impact is felt across campus. In SOFA, she’s known for her outstanding communication, organization, and support of the faculty and staff she serves. Manda also gives her time to student-support programs like the CARES team and Penguin Pantry, and she's led efforts like the Free Holiday Market for students. Deeply committed to diversity and inclusion, Manda always creates a space where colleagues feel encouraged and valued. And, as a lifelong learner, she continues to grow through Clark courses across disciplines.

Lora Whitfield Social Equity Award

Lora Whitfield was an Early Childhood Education professor at Clark College who cared deeply about this community. She was committed to the success of her fellow employees and the students she served. As a tenured professor, she promoted equity and inclusion, creating a culture of community for all. Clark’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion reviews the nominations for this award and makes a recommendation based on a Clark employee’s demonstrated and sustained commitment to advancing equity. The award recipient is chosen by the Social Equity Advisory Committee. The winners of this award will each receive $1,000 and a plaque in honor of Lora Whitfield.   

Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees: 

group of people, two holding awardsLora Whitfield Social Equity Award recipients with Disability Access Services and other support staff. Left to right: Tre Sandlin, Danii Dickason, Angela Childers, Katie Massey, Audrie Villanueva, Zach Lattin, Megan Jasurda, and Alissa Stevens.

This year’s winners are Angela Childers and Audrie Villanueva from the Disability Access Center!

Angela Childers, Disability Access Center

If there’s a barrier to student success, Angela will find a way to remove it. Through her work at the Disability Access Center, she helped launch the center's first student scholarships, securing funding for students with vision and hearing disabilities. She goes the extra mile to ensure deaf and hard of hearing students have the resources they need—whether that’s interpreters, video captions, or one-on-one support. She also reminds us all of how essential accessibility is. Angela's dedication makes Clark a more inclusive community for every student. 

Audrie Villaneuva, Disability Access Center

Audrie is a tireless champion for students. She provides case management support with compassion and unwavering determination, advocating relentlessly to ensure students feel seen, heard, and supported. Sometimes, that means pausing her work to listen. Other times, it means holding people and systems accountable. Her calm and warm presence offers empathy, respect, and thoughtful guidance. This year, she helped bring text-to-speech software to campus, expanding access for students with disabilities. Audrie’s work leaves a lasting impact on every student she serves.

Years of Service Awards

Dr. Darcy Roark, Interim Vice President of Human Resources, presented the years of service awards to staff and faculty members who have completed 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 years of service. These service awards recognize employees who have made a commitment to the college and serving students. Thanks to an anonymous donor through the Foundation, we are able to honor years of service to Clark College. 

5 Years

10 Years

15 Years

20 Years

 

25 Years

group of people on stage with awardsLeft to right: Jordan De Van, Heather King, Chris Plamondon, Debi Jenkins, Paul Caggianese, Tatyana Potter, James Finley, Joe Pitkin, and Rebecca Martin.

30 Years

three people with awardsLeft to right: Van Forsyth, Karmel Baldwin, and Jennifer Lea.

35 Years

three people on stageLeft to right: Sherri Meadors, Dr. Karin Edwards, and Paul Casillas.

40 Years

two people on stageSally Demos with Dr. Karin Edwards.

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley
More photos from Opening Day can be viewed on flickr.