CLINTON, IA – The Clinton Community College Alumni Association presented the 42nd annual Outstanding Awards in May. In addition, the CCC Student Senate presented their annual honors at the luncheon that honors outstanding contributions throughout the year.
Outstanding Business Associate – D-Lectable D-Lites
D-Lectable D-Lites is a sweet and savory production studio using only the freshest and seasonal ingredients. Melissa Werner puts her heart and soul into her creations and it shows. D-Lectable D-Lites is a staple at community and many CCC events. She promotes the college on her social media, and encourages people to stop by for lunch. Just like CCC, she is loyal and committed to her customers and is always a delight to work with. Congratulations to 2023 Outstanding Business Associate, D-Lectable D-Lites.
Outstanding Volunteers – Clinton Trees Forever
The nomination said it well, “Just ask and they will come! With the request for trees for our new Clinton Career Advancement Center, the Trees Forever group said ‘YES!’ And on Arbor Day, April 28, they came en mass to teach us how, and then to plant, 17 new trees. For generations, the planters will drive by to admire the trees planted in 2023.” Thank you to the 46 volunteers that planted trees at the Career Advancement Center, and to the members of Clinton Trees Forever.”
Friend of the College – Metallica and All Within My Hands
The 2023 Clinton Community College Alumni Association Friend of the College is Metallica and the All Within My Hands Foundation! The contribution made by the band Metallica and their All Within My Hands Foundation goes beyond scholarships. The encouragement the Metallica Scholars Initiative has provided to our students is priceless. Each Metallica Scholar is proud of their journey to gain skills, complete a degree, and build a career. Each feels that Metallica believes in them, and their investment in the scholarship program demonstrates that belief. That is why the CCC AA named Metallica and All Within My Hands Foundation as the 2023 Outstanding Friend of the College.
Staff/Faculty Member – Amy Madsen-Smith
Amy Madsen-Smith embraced the role of Dean of Instruction less than 2 years ago, after more than 20 years as an instructor at Clinton Community College. Since being named Dean, Amy has taught classes, learned the position of Dean of Instruction, designed two new Career Advancement Centers, guided new and seasoned faculty, communicated regularly with our high school and industry partners, and is now navigating the Guided Pathways transition in the EICC Deans of Instruction roles. She can and does, do it all! In the midst of constant learning and transition, Amy has kept the proverbial balls in the air and performs with the confidence of a true professional. Amy is a quality Clinton Community College employee who gives her all to her role as Dean and in all she does!
Alumnus – Mary Jo Nier
The nomination said it well, “What a year it has been in the High School Equivalency Program! Under the guidance of Lead Teacher Mary Jo Nier, the number of completers has increased by double digits. Mary Jo is committed to the HiSET students as they earn their degree then start on their college education. She cheers on students as they head to the finish line and celebrates their victories. Mary Jo is solutions based, and an education is a great solution for many. With her leading the team, we will continue to see the number of HiSET graduates increase.“
Graduate – Kaylee Renkes
Kaylee Renkes is a student who checks off all the boxes – President’s List, Phi Theta Kappa, Military, active volunteer, and campus leader. With each engagement, Kaylee brings poise, kindness, respect, and her best effort. One example is the Chili Cookoff, when the one person who had never made chili found a fabulous recipe and claimed the Chili Cookoff Championship. Kaylee has been on the President’s or Deans’ list her entire CCC journey, and each year you think it will be difficult to top the prior year’s effort, but she does just that. Kaylee is a non-traditional student who is always thinking of others and CCC. She epitomizes the caliber of student that represents CCC to the fullest. She is passionate, compassionate, energetic, patient and a true gem to be around.
Club of the Year – Super Awesomeness Club
This Club of the Year goes to the group that has been the most dedicated and active. This club always includes others and goes above and beyond with their events. Club of the year is not only an active club at CCC but also takes part in the community. This club is a newer club and they have worked so hard to engage others. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. The Student Senate has selected SuperAwesomeness as Club of the Year.
Friend of Students – Advisor Jennifer Austin
Friend of Student This award goes to a staff member who has dedicated their time to make sure students are taking care of. This staff member has always lent a helping hand when they can. She also stepped up and covered a role that was out of her job description and was a rock star with the greatest dance moves at CCC Prom. The Friend of Students award is presented to Jennifer Austin.
Above and Beyond – Phi Theta Kappa & Gaming Guild
The Above and Beyond award is presented to two clubs this year. Both groups collaborated and went above and beyond to grow our campus. These students created a space for all students to play board games, video games, and connect with one another. This is now The 113. This award is presented to Phi Theta Kappa and Gaming Guild.
Best Friend of Student Senate – Heather Evans
The Best Friend of Student Senate award goes to someone who has changed the lives of Student Senate members. This staff member deserves so much recognition for everything she has done. She is a great role model and mentor. She has taught the Student Senate that anything is possible and to never give up. She has always taken the Student Senate under her wing. She is one of the biggest advocates for the students. She has provided us with so many opportunities. The Best Friend of Student Senate is Heather Evans.
College President Potential Award – Dr. Michelle Allmendinger
New for 2023 is the College President Potential award. Student Senate wanted to honor an individual who is leaving CCC to be closer to pursuing her dreams as a college president. This staff member has grown CCC and has always put the school’s best interests forward. Thank you to Dr. Michelle Allmendinger for all you have accomplished on our campus. CCC offers best wishes and luck in your future endeavors. We know you will succeed.
For questions about the CCC Alumni Association or Student Senate, contact Clinton Community College at 563-244-7001.
