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Staff council recognized the following staff members as the fall 2022 Staff Council Grand �ֲ���ý���ian Award winners. Each of the winners has demonstrated their commitment and dedication to the college by being an excellent performer in their duties while representing the core values of the institution, our THRIVE principles, and the mission of �ֲ���ý���. 

Vanessa Preast, associate director of the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment, was recognized in part for her ability to foster relationship across campus and for being an active and passionate advocate for the College. Her nominator spoke of the enthusiasm and intellectual energy she brings to every project she is a part of and her eagerness to serve the College community. 

“Vanessa EMBODIES the THRIVE principles. She is the most involved �ֲ���ý��� staff member I’m aware of. She not only works hard at her job, but she strives to make �ֲ���ý��� a positive work environment for all staff, faculty, and students. She pulls the community together and creates opportunities and connection. Education is at her heart. She is passionate about fairness. She is great at organizing, following up, collaborating, and making a difference. She is a fabulous advocate for the college. She just wants to do what she can to serve the college and community to make a difference.” 

Nino B. Parker '07, associate director of Alumni and Donor Relations, Regional and Special Events, served in leadership positions for both President Harris's inauguration and the planning of the Humanities and Social Studies Center dedication in just the past year. He was honored in part for leading these projects that are deeply important to the campus community with graceful navigation and diplomacy. His nominator says that he is the most dedicated and committed professional they have had the pleasure of working at �ֲ���ý���. 

“Nino navigates important projects like no one I've ever seen, building positive relationships with everyone with whom he interacts and living out the THRIVE principles at both a macro and micro level. When Nino says yes, it is not a begrudging yes, but a yes grounded in his genuine belief in, and care for, �ֲ���ý��� and the people who make up this community. Beyond his professional work with DAR, Nino has been deeply involved in many other facets of �ֲ���ý��� and is the "go to" guy for so many. Through this diverse service, he lives out his beliefs in action - beliefs aligned with the core values and mission of �ֲ���ý���.” 

Donnette Ellis, community relations and grant coordinator in the Office of Community Partnerships, Planning, and Research, was recognized for managing the office with grace, efficiency, humor, and kindness, and making meaningful connections with students and community leaders. Her nominator spoke about Donnette’s ability to elevate something from “okay” to “really lovely,” and called her “the glue that holds our office together.” 

“Donnette is always there to help when needed and is usually 100 steps ahead of the rest of the office in managing potential scheduling needs, balancing budgets, and figuring out effective next steps in a project. Nobody notices when events or projects just WORK — however, I do hope Donnette knows how much appreciation and regard we all hold for her and her accomplishments. She is a pure joy to work with and an example for all staff at �ֲ���ý���. She also makes sure that we enjoy our work and our work environment. Donnette is indeed a Grand �ֲ���ý���ian, in all senses. She knows what's going on in town and on campus and works hard to connect the two. When I started as a new employee, I enjoyed the most seamless and easy orientation and onboarding thanks in large part to Donnette. She organized a great program that helped my transition into my new role, made me feel welcomed, and made me feel like I could be successful.” 

The Grand �ֲ���ý���ian award is presented by Staff Council, in collaboration with the President’s office, Human Resources, and the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.