MASON CITY – Members of the North Iowa Area Community College Foundation created an annual Honorarium in 2010 to recognize exceptional efforts of staff and faculty at NIACC.
“The review committee was in awe by the talent and dedication of our NIACC employees. This award is a wonderful way to honor our staff and faculty members for the many things they do,” said Karen Knudtson, member of both the College and Foundation boards. “Our employees are our best asset at NIACC and we want to show how much we appreciate them.”
The Board decided to give the ‘Excellence in Service’ award. Up to $1,000 will be awarded each year by the NIACC Foundation Board to recognize exceptional efforts of full-time NIACC employees. It could be awarded to one person or split between two.
Nominations from peers were accepted on behalf of employees who have gone above and beyond their daily obligations. They could be nominated for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, student support, service to the College, leadership or community engagement.
During an all-staff meeting on January 7, 2013 two employees were surprised with the announcement they would be this year’s recipients:
Brian Charlton, Computer Lab Tech Supervisor, was nominated because of his outstanding customer support, his positive attitude and willingness to help others. He has a difficult position of helping students, faculty and staff in an area that is constantly changing. Brian is diligent at following up to make sure issues have been resolved. Brian’s support, gracious help, friendly nature and generosity toward so many at the College is truly outstanding.
Donna Orton, Health Division Chair, promotes high standards and quality in education. Under Donna’s leadership, four Health Division programs achieved reaccreditation in the past two years. The licensure and certification rates of the health division graduates remain at the highest levels in the state. This is related to the extra time she spends mentoring faculty and supporting continuing education for faculty. In addition to Donna’s dedication to NIACC, she serves on several state-wide committees, bringing a current perspective on state and national issues back to campus.
Each received $500 from the NIACC Foundation.
