The RCC Faculty Senate affords an opportunity for faculty members to be recognized for going beyond the basics to engage and encourage learning. Nomination requests were sent to staff and students for the four categories. The nominations were collected and reviewed by a committee made up of four Faculty Senate members. They use a scoring rubric to evaluate the entries, and a winner is decided for each category.
We are delighted to announce that Marissa Barrientos Shepherd has been awarded a special Certificate of Recognition for her exceptional contributions to Student Engagement and Advocacy. This award recognizes an educator who goes beyond standard teaching duties to support student success, student engagement, civic responsibility and inclusive environments.
This distinction is particularly meaningful as it stems directly from the community she serves. Dr. Barrientos Shepherd was nominated by multiple students who highlighted her tireless dedication to their academic success and her role as a steadfast advocate for their needs.
In a field where mentorship and student support are vital, Dr. Shepherd has distinguished herself through:
- High Levels of Engagement: Actively fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment where every student feels seen and heard.
- Advocacy: Going above and beyond to support student interests, ensuring they have the resources and voice necessary to thrive.
Please join us in celebrating Dr. Barrientos Shepherd for this well-deserved honor and thanking her for her continued commitment to our students.
We are proud to announce that Corrie Alexander has been awarded a Certificate of Recognition for her Dedication to Excellence in Teaching. The purpose of the award is to celebrate and elevate exceptional teaching, highlight best practices and reinforce the institution’s commitment to high‑quality education. It’s given to educators who demonstrate outstanding skill, dedication and impact in their teaching practice.
This award is a direct result of the high regard in which Corrie is held by her students. She was nominated by multiple individuals who sought to highlight her passion, mastery of her craft and the significant impact her instruction has had on their academic journeys.
Corrie’s commitment to setting high standards while providing the support necessary for students to reach them is a model of pedagogical excellence. We are fortunate to have her on our team and look forward to her continued contributions to our learning community.
Please join us in congratulating Corrie on this prestigious and well-earned honor.
We are proud to announce that Tricia Black has been awarded a Certificate of Recognition for her Dedication to Community Engagement and Partnerships. Award recipients exemplify the values of collaboration, social responsibility and community stewardship, contributing to positive and measurable impact both on campus and in the wider region.
Her ability to cultivate authentic relationships and foster sustainable partnerships has not only expanded our reach but has also deepened the impact of our collective mission. Through her strategic vision and hands-on approach, Tricia establishes a foundation of trust and mutual support.
By identifying and nurturing key alliances that bring diverse voices and resources together, she sets RCC’s education students up for success. Here is what one student had to say about Tricia: “I am a witness to her advocacy and grace towards students. Her educational background is exemplary as she dedicates effort and time in creating teachers of the highest standards. She lavishes resources for future teachers and engages us in highly meaningful conversations. Her education has provided us with strong confidence in our teaching abilities because, by the end of the term, we can easily navigate ways to support the whole child and their growth as a future learner.”
Please join us in thanking Tricia for her tireless work and in celebrating this well-deserved recognition of her leadership in community building.
We are proud to announce that Shantelle Taylor has been awarded a Certificate of Recognition for her Dedication in Inspiring Students. Shantelle was nominated by multiple students and staff for this award. This award celebrates faculty whose presence and actions inspire excellence — not only in the classroom, but across the broader college community. Award recipients serve as role models through professionalism, integrity, compassion and dedication to student success. They positively influence the academic and personal growth of others through mentorship, encouragement and visionary leadership.
Shantelle’s work goes beyond the traditional classroom or office setting. This honor recognizes her unique ability to motivate students not just to succeed academically, but to take active ownership of their futures. By helping students bridge the gap between their current studies and their long-term aspirations, she has become a vital spark for their personal and professional growth.
Her commitment to mentorship and her passion for student empowerment serve as an inspiration to our entire community. Please join us in celebrating Shantelle for her incredible impact and this well-deserved achievement.
For more information about RCC’s Faculty Senate Awards, please contact Michelle Gray via email or Teams.