The Pat-on-the-Back program gives employees the opportunity to recognize their colleagues for outstanding contributions, everyday helpfulness, teamwork, positivity, and going above and beyond. Whether someone offered a helping hand, solved a tricky problem, or simply made your day better, this is your chance to say, “I noticed, and I appreciate you.”
Employees may use the Pat-on-the-Back Nomination form to give someone some well-deserved kudos. Take a look at some of our most recent nominations below!
“Shannon Wells has been so helpful to me on so many occasions, she is always ready to assist with any questions, she always knows who to contact for any classroom issues and represents the kind of environment for "you belong here." Shannon is always kind and really patient in explaining procedures and processes. I appreciate Shannon for all she does!”
"Alex Buxton consistently goes above and beyond in his role here on campus. With temperatures on the rise, our HVAC systems are put under significant strain, creating challenges across every building on campus. Alex is out on the rooftops day in and day out, working through each issue to ensure our facilities remain safe and comfortable for everyone. Working on a black roof in 100 degree weather is incredibly demanding, yet Alex takes on these challenges every day without complaint. His dedication, hard work, and commitment to keeping our campus running smoothly do not go unnoticed by our team. I am truly grateful to have Alex on our team, and the college is very fortunate to have someone with his dedication and expertise as an asset to our campus. Thank you, Alex, for all that you do!"
“Keith Boyer came in clutch with helping another staff member with some technology that Workforce department uses! Keith was so helpful!"
"Jason Johnson goes above and beyond to ensure College Studies classes run smoothly. He assists everyone who is teaching these courses to make sure students succeed."
“Holli Gillam always goes above and beyond to ensure that faculty and staff have access to the resources and training necessary to appropriately support all students on campus. She has assisted my department on multiple occasions with delicate student support needs, and has done so promptly, thoroughly, and compassionately. She is a valuable asset to our community!”
"I would like to nominate Lisa Pritchard for her expertise and excellent service. I had a question regarding a LibGuide she created, she reached out to determine my exact research purpose, and provided additional resources to improve my understanding. Lisa is always a good person to reach out to and a great colleague to work with!"
“I've had the privilege to work with Rachel Becknell recently to support a mutual student. Rachel has gone above and beyond to ensure that the student was taken care of.”
"Karen Altenau is always so quick to respond and incredibly helpful. She always seems to have an answer for me and is consistently kind and willing to help. I feel like Karen’s hard work can sometimes go unnoticed, but she does so much for the college and makes things easier for so many of us. We truly appreciate her, her kindness, and everything she does! THANK YOU, KAREN, for all that you do!"
Third Quarter Pat-on-the-Back Winner – Luke Nobles
Luke received the following Pat on the Back:
"I had a prospective student come to pay for their Radiology program application. She drove from her home in Eureka; but is actually going to school in Florida. We talked about her excitement regarding the program that she had heard and read so much about. I happened to think how awesome it would be if she could take a quick tour of the campus and the radiology area; but wasn't sure that it could happen on such short notice. I reached out to Luke and he was so incredibly helpful, mentioned that he would speak with their student worker, Gracie. He made it happen! The look on our hopeful students' face was priceless! Thank you, Luke!!"
Congratulations, Luke! Your efforts are greatly appreciated!
Annual Faculty and Staff Awards
Dr. B. Ray Henry Service & Innovation Award
2026 Winner Mary Baricevic
The purpose of the Dr. B. Ray Henry Service/Innovation Award is to recognize superior, innovative participation of an employee in the shared governance of the College, primarily through work on or with an institutional committee or subcommittee. This award is names in honor of Dr. B. Ray Henry, second president of Jefferson College, during a period of substantial growth and community impact.
Linda K. Johnston Assessment & Innovation Award
2026 Winners Staff: Matthew Husky Faculty: Tim Boehm
Each year, the Assessment Committee honors one staff member and one faculty member for their excellence in assessment efforts at Jefferson College by granting the Linda K. Johnston award. Employees are nominated for this award based on the following criteria:
Communicate a positive attitude about assessment.
Help to foster the concept of assessment at Jefferson College.
Use a variety of assessment measures and techniques.
Use results of assessment to impact the curriculum and/or student learning.
Outstanding Achievement Awards
2026 Winners Certified Staff: Jaclyn Birks Classified Staff: Michelle Allen Adjunct Faculty: Cindy Farris Faculty: Wesley Whitfield and Holly Ross
The Jefferson College Foundation established the Outstanding Achievement Award to identify and honor selected staff and faculty members for their outstanding contribution to the College. The program is sponsored by the Jefferson College Foundation Board of Directors, and the nomination process is led by the constituent group presidents. Employees must have been employed by the College for at least five years before the nomination deadline in order to be eligible, and they must also meet the established criteria for each group.
Years of Service
Each year, the College celebrate those who have reached significant service anniversaries – from their first five years to decades of loyalty and excellence. The following employees are recognized for the dedication, commitment, and contributions that have helped make Jefferson College a thriving institution of learning and community:
5 Years: Jared AuBuchon, Jennifer Baine, Angi Bassin, Lucia Brodribb, Meredith Buschmann, Velina Critchlow, Kati Donahue, Leslie Duncan, Judith Ellison, Holli Gillam, Keri Hayes, Lauren Kemper, Timothy Kuchar, Gwen Lee, Saranda Lund, Michael Morris, Sean Oberle, Sarah Peppers, Jennifer Record, Ashley Rudolph, Sarah Schlereth, Ian Schneider, David Smith, Robert Sullivan, Stephanie Werner, Stacy Wilfong
10 Years: Bradley Berrey, Jamie Blumm, Kristine Bogue, Alexander Buxton, Michael Griggs, Joshua Jackson, Elke Overton, Holly Ross, Jamie Schneider, Emily West, Brandon Whittington
15 Years: Vivian Aubuchon, Joe Brown, Shannon Crow, Amanda McKay, Elizabeth Ebert, Kerry Hugo, Julie Johns, Dustin Lemp, Lindsey Oertwig Saffa, Susan Welch, John Willett, Niki Vogelsang
20 Years: Kenneth Boning, Tony Cook, Kimberly Flora, Dedric Lee, Matthew Price, Gregory Simos
25 Years: Sean Birke, Amy Kausler, Lore Robart, Susan Todd, Tasha Welsh
Viking Fest: Employee Appreciation Event
Enjoy some photos from this year's Viking Fest, the College's annual employee appreciation event!
Congratulations to the 2026 Viking Spirit Award Winners!
Office Sunshine = Jen Gann Recognizes an employee who brings positivity, warmth, and encouragement to the workplace. Through their attitude, kindness, and ability to lift others up, this individual helps create a welcoming and supportive environment.
Dependable as Coffee = Stacey Wilson Recognizes an employee with a strong work ethic who can always be counted on. Just like that first cup of coffee in the morning, this individual shows up consistently, follows through, and never fails to provide support.
Customer Service King/Queen = Deneen Mains Recognizes an employee who consistently provides outstanding service to students, colleagues, and the community. With professionalism, responsiveness, and a genuine willingness to help, this individual ensures others feel supported, valued, and well cared for.
Unsung Hero = Tommy Browne Recognizes an employee whose dedication and hard work make a meaningful difference behind the scenes. Though their contributions may not always be in the spotlight, their impact helps keep Jefferson College running smoothly.
Most Likely to Inspire Students = Michelle Allen Recognizes an employee whose passion, encouragement, and dedication leave a lasting impact on students. Through their guidance, they motivate learners to believe in themselves and strive for success.
Most Supportive Colleague = Saranda Lund Recognizes an employee who consistently lifts others up through encouragement, collaboration, and a willingness to help. Their thoughtfulness, generosity, and team-first mindset make them a trusted and valued colleague.
JeffCo MVP = Carrie Greer Recognizes an employee whose contributions extend beyond their role and create a broad and lasting impact across the College. Whether through leadership, collaboration, or service, this individual strengthens the campus community and helps move JeffCo forward.
Campus Connector = Emily West Recognizes an employee who helps bring people, information, and resources together. Through their willingness to share institutional knowledge, make connections, and guide others, this individual strengthens collaboration and helps colleagues navigate the campus community more effectively.
Glue That Holds Us Together = Lorinn Gosling Recognizes an employee who helps keep teams organized, motivated, and focused. Often serving as a calm and steady presence during busy or challenging times, this individual offers hope, provides a voice of reason, and keeps the team grounded.
