On a National Level

We’ve always known we have award-winning students, instructors and staff. Our latest award wins from the University Professional & Continuing Education Association (UPCEA) recognize two individuals for their dedication to excellence. These awards are the highest distinction and honor in the continuing education profession.

Karen Smith, the College’s manager of strategic initiatives, won the Adelle F. Robertson Emerging Professional Continuing Educator Award. The award recognizes the leadership and contributions to the profession of an outstanding continuing professional educator who has entered the field within the past five to 10 years.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized for this award,” Karen said.  “I love the continuing education environment and have a never ending passion for process improvement.  The fact that I am allowed to work every day with this wonderful team of people who understand the mission and vision of our college is so rewarding.”

Moises Arroyo, ESL program graduate, claimed the Outstanding Continuing Education Student – Noncredit Award. It recognizes outstanding student achievement in professional and continuing education. A native of Mexico, Moises successfully completed all six levels of the College’s ESL Certificate program. His inspirational story was featured on the April-June 2014 issue of the Course Catalog quarterly magazine.

“I feel honored to receive this award,” Moises said. “When I started, I just wanted to learn. I never expected anything like this. I began knowing almost no English. Now my English has improved so much that I have a better job because of it. I can confidently communicate with my bosses and my friends.”

Karen and Moises both claimed UPCEA South regional awards in the same category last fall — which qualified them for the national honor.

The awards will be distributed as part of UPCEA’s 100th Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., March 30-April 1.