Tompkins Cortland Community College President Orinthia Montague addressing students Thursday night during the college's 49th annual commencement ceremony (Peter Blanchard/Cortland Voice)
DRYDEN, N.Y. — Faculty, staff, and distinguished alumni were honored during the commencement ceremonies at Tompkins Cortland Community College May 24, 2018.
The following individuals were recognized at the commencement ceremony:
Paula Moore, professor of nursing, received the Chancellor's/Trustees' Award for Excellence in Teaching. She was recognized for her commitment to providing an exceptional and practical experience to the College’s nursing students. Moore has led a long-time service learning trip to Nicaragua, providing care to rural Nicaraguans and providing an invaluable collaborative learning experience for the nursing students who work not only with local populations but also with Nicaraguan nurses.
Susanna Van Sant, collections development and acquisitions librarian, was awarded the Chancellor's/Trustees' Award for Excellence in Librarianship. She was recognized for the dedication she has demonstrated in taking the lead on numerous library projects, including the implementation of a new library management system.
Mellora Paucke, campus technology services coordinator, received the Chancellor's/Trustees' Award for Excellence in Classified Service. She was credited with her work in a continually evolving role within the Campus Technology department, as well as her commitment to the College’s students. Her role in supporting the College’s Achieving the Dream Grant of Open Educational Resources was also cited in her acknowledgements.
Jamie Barker, adjunct instructor of biology, received the Chancellor’s/Trustees' Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching. She was recognized for the quality of her teaching and her warmth and personal connection in supporting student success.
Matt Kiechle, assistant director of health education, was honored with the Faculty Student Association Award for Program Development. He was recognized for his innovative and tireless approach to service students in the health services area, including coordinating programs that help students reduce risk and make healthy lifestyle choices.
Will Munson, senior maintenance technician, was honored with the Faculty Student Association Award for Program Support. He was recognized for his diligence and attention to detail in managing TC3 Tioga Place, the property in Ithaca that serves as home of the College’s Ithaca Extension Center.
The college also recognized alums who have distinguished themselves in their career and service to the community with the Distinguished Alumni Award. After a community-wide nomination process, four alums were selected for the honor in 2018:
Hussein Adams is a 2016 graduate of the paralegal degree program. He was recognized for his professionalism and extensive commitment to community leadership.
Travis Brooks is a 2011 graduate. He was honored for his extensive involvement in the Ithaca community, especially as a deputy director in overseeing youth programs at the Greater Ithaca Activities Center.
Elizabeth Burns is a 1986 graduate. She is a current member, and former chairperson, of the College’s Board of Trustees. She was recognized not only for her commitment to the College, but also to her community, having served as an elected judge and in many other public capacities through Cortland County.
Julianna Truesdale is a 2009 graduate. She overcame significant obstacles on her path to earning her degree and has dedicated herself to helping those in the community who deal with similar challenges. She is an experienced graphic designer, business owner, and committed volunteer in her community.
