A teacher who “presents the material in ways that motivate students to explore deeper.”

A Human Resources staffer who developed a process resulting in “savings of tens of thousands of dollars to the college.”

A library assistant who doubles as “a true ambassador for Japan to Georgia Perimeter College.”

All are among the award winners saluted April 18 at Georgia Perimeter College’s annual Celebration of Excellence for Faculty, Professional, Administrative and Staff.

Rob Watts, GPC’s interim president explained the importance of employee recognition in his remarks at the recognition reception. “Study after study shows how important positive feedback and recognition is for an organization to be successful and for us to be able to attract and retain a quality workforce.” 

The complete list of winners:

Eric Kendrick, English as a Second Language, Faculty Service Excellence Award, cited for his active role in advising clubs and leadership in international and study abroad activities.

Martha Bowles, English, Teaching Excellence Award. Bowles is “the kind of classroom teacher who checks her ego at the door and knows that the only real measure of success for a teacher is that of her students,” according to the nomination.

Jim Barnaby and the Logistical Services Team, Clarkston,GPC Teamwork Award, described as a team with “a can-do attitude” that “the entire college relies heavily on on a daily basis.”

Robin Winston, Lakeside, Student Financial Services, GPC Leadership Award, cited for her leadership during an ongoing audit of the college.  

Jimmy Cooper, Peter Bowers, Neil Starkman, Dunwoody, OIT Technology,GPC Quality Service Award, cited for “their work ethic and concern.”

Tacoma Robinson, Dunwoody, International Student Admissions and Advising, GPC Quality Service Award. “She is steadfast about the importance of treating students with dignity and respect while addressing their needs, empowering them, and helping them achieve their personal and educational goals,” according to the nomination.

Kameka Houston, Human Resources, GPC Continuous Improvement Award, cited for developing a money-saving process that helps with the collection of insurance premiums from employees.

Mardina Woods, Purchasing Department, GPC Continuous Improvement Award, praised for instituting controls and internal audits in purchasing.

Bonnie Martin, Disability Services, Student Success Outcomes Award. She was instrumental in pushing though a state policy change that allows students with math-related disabilities to take alternative math courses.

Military Outreach Center staff (John Douglas, Natasha Nichols, Miranda Burks, Chris Noerjadi, Lance Peterson and James Howell), Student Success (Outcomes) Award, cited for their dedication to student veterans’ success.

Nate Holmes and Marian Adomakoh, Advising, Counseling and Retention Services, Access and Capacity (Outcomes) Award, piloted CARES, a summer immersion program to help prospective students scoring below administrative standards.

Jamie Fernandes, Amy Jurgens and Lynn Parker, Decatur, Budget Office, Values Award. “We have a more cost-conscious college due to their efforts,” said the nomination.

Jeanette Lee, Newton, Health Wellness and Recreation, Values Award, “sets high standards for staff conduct, the professional appearance of facilities and effective wellness programming.”

Bonita King, Lakeside, Student Financial Services, Values Award, called an “unofficial ombudsman” and “one of the unsung heroes at GPC.”

Akiko Kojima, Dunwoody, Learning Resources Center, Values Award, cited for her work as advisor of the Japan Club and leadership in her library job.

Sarah Larson, Alumni Association Outstanding Faculty of the Year – Retired.

Maryann Errico, Alumni Association Outstanding Faculty of the Year – Current.

Sgt. Rodney Treadwell, Alumni Association Outstanding Staff of the Year – Current.