San Juan College recognized exceptional employees during the Fall 2024 Convocation assembly.
Honoring Outstanding Employees at the 2024 Fall Convocation
San Juan College recognized exceptional employees during the Fall 2024 Convocation assembly. This annual event honors staff and faculty who exemplify dedication and service through awards including the Fran Sandoval Support Staff Excellence Award, Physical Plant Staff Excellence Award, Golden Sun Award, and the President’s Service Excellence Award. Thanks to the support of the San Juan College Foundation, recipients are also awarded stipends for their achievements.
Fran Sandoval Support Staff Excellence Award
The Fran Sandoval Support Staff Excellence Award is given to a support staff employee who significantly contributes to the vision of San Juan College. This year, Lonnie Rednour, Workstation Support Analyst III in the IT Department, received the award. Rednour was praised by San Juan College Foundation Executive Director Gayle Dean as “a pillar of ingenuity” who fosters efficiency and empowers colleagues. Established in 2004, this award includes a $2,000 stipend, generously provided by the San Juan College Foundation.
Physical Plant Staff Excellence Award
Eric Thomas, Assistant Building Services Supervisor, was honored with the Physical Plant Staff Excellence Award for his dedication to maintaining a clean and welcoming environment for faculty, staff, and students. Dean commended Thomas for consistently exceeding expectations and caring deeply about creating a positive campus environment. Thomas received a $1,000 stipend for his exceptional service.
Stuart and Jane Wilson Adjunct Faculty Award
The Stuart and Jane Wilson Adjunct Faculty Award was presented to Jeanette Lukowski, an adjunct instructor in the School of Humanities. Lukowski was recognized for her commitment to student success and her innovative teaching methods, which engage students in meaningful ways. Lukowski received a $500 stipend for her outstanding work in the classroom.
Golden Sun Award
Nicole Nelson-Garcia, Assistant Professor in the School of Business, Information Technology, and Social Science, was awarded the Golden Sun Award. This prestigious award is passed from one recipient to another each year, with Paulette Stanley, the Spring 2024 winner, presenting it to Nelson-Garcia. Nelson-Garcia was praised for creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students. Her involvement in community initiatives such as CLEAR, Active Minds, and Childhaven also reflects her dedication beyond the classroom. The Golden Sun Award includes a $300 stipend, sponsored by the San Juan College Foundation.
President’s Service Excellence Award
Each fall, San Juan College President Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass presents the Presidential Service Excellence Award to a department or team that has delivered outstanding service. This year, the San Juan College Information Technology Center (ITC) team was honored for their continuous efforts to support the college community, working around the clock to ensure seamless connectivity and safety. The ITC team received a $500 stipend for their exceptional service.
Gratitude to Supporters
San Juan College extends sincere thanks to the donors and the San Juan College Foundation for their continued support in recognizing the excellence that thrives within the college. These awards celebrate the hard work and dedication of employees who make a lasting impact on the San Juan College community.
