Tuesday, October 6, 2026
CVTC recognizes colleagues for excellence in teaching, service, leadership
Chippewa Valley Technical College recognized 12 employees and instructors today for their outstanding contributions to students, colleagues and the college during its annual employee awards ceremony.
The awards recognize excellence in teaching, student support, leadership and the many ways employees contribute to a positive college culture.
“We are fortunate to have so many employees who are deeply committed to the success of our students and to the success of CVTC,” said CVTC President Sunem Beaton-Garcia. “These awards are an opportunity to recognize the expertise, dedication and leadership they bring to our college every day.”
Adjunct Excellence Award
Terra West, Medical Lab Technician adjunct instructor, received the Adjunct Excellence Award this year, which recognizes the contributions of adjunct instructors to student learning while enhancing the status and respect for the teaching profession.
Culture of Excellence Award
The Culture of Excellence Award recognizes staff members who enhance the College culture through positive contributions. Areas considered include consistency, workplace climate, communication and relationship-building. This year’s recipients are Nic Ashman, Digital Services Librarian, and Brian Schwechel, Custodial Event Manager.
Student Success Advocate Award
The Student Success Advocate Award recognizes colleagues who demonstrate outstanding dedication to helping students thrive at CVTC. Recipients contribute to improved student outcomes through relationship-building, teaching or service strategies, and process improvement efforts. This year’s recipients are Heather Dougherty, Student Success Specialist, Larissa Smith, Instructional Technologist, Mitchell Jacobson, Life Science Adjunct Instructor, and Mariana Wopat, English Language Learning Instructor
Domer New Faculty Teaching Award
Katie Nelson, Nursing instructor, received the Domer New Faculty Teaching Award, which recognizes a new instructor who has distinguished themselves during their first two years of teaching.
John Frank Outstanding Educator Award
The John Frank Outstanding Educator Award recognizes outstanding role models and seeks to elevate the value society places on education. Recipients demonstrate professionalism and excellence in teaching and learning while fostering positive student-teacher relationships. This year’s recipients are Ron Keys, recently retired General Education Instructor, and Megan Siemek, Surgical Technology Instructor.
Connor Emerging Leadership Award
Kerry Benavides, IT Systems Analyst, received the Connor Emerging Leadership Award, which recognizes and celebrates emerging leaders at CVTC. The award honors employees who demonstrate leadership potential and contribute to a culture of continuous development and the pursuit of excellence.
Together, the recipients represent the many ways CVTC employees contribute to student success and to a culture of excellence across the college.
“Whether they are teaching in a classroom, supporting students, strengthening our operations or helping colleagues succeed, these individuals make a meaningful difference at CVTC,” Beaton-Garcia said. “We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and the impact they have on our college community.”
