Fort Morgan, CO 3/22/2022. Each year Morgan Community College (MCC) recognizes employees for their achievements in carrying out the MCC mission, vision, and guiding principles.
MCC has named Jeffrey Coon as Faculty of the Year. Coon has been with MCC since 2015 as the Director of the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program. Coon holds a Master of Physical Therapy degree from Samuel Merritt College, a Bachelor of Arts in General Studies from Aquinas College, and a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Credential. A student who nominated Coon for the award stated, “Jeff has the remarkable skill of being able to influence a group to be their best, simply by being present. I strive to be a dedicated learner and a knowledgeable PTA, and with Jeff’s guidance, I will be.”
Gwen Steffen was selected as MCC’s Administrative/Professional-Technical Employee of the Year. Steffen has served as a Student Success Advisor at the college for over fourteen years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from Colorado Christian University, an Associate of Arts from Morgan Community College, and a CTE Credential. Steffen’s nomination was inspired by the servant leadership she provides to students and staff. Her nominator stated, “Gwen is a leader at MCC. She models the core values of integrity, equity, and excellence. She is dedicated to inspiring passionate leaders and lifelong MCC supporters.” Steffen is known for her radiant smile, positive attitude, and warm spirit.
Kevin Hemphill was named MCC’s Part-time Instructor of the Year. Hemphill has been with MCC since 2008, teaching math at Strasburg High School. He holds a Master of Science in Mathematics from Wichita State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics Teaching from Bethany College. Kevin is known to make math fun through creative engagement and by creating an atmosphere that promotes self-confidence and mutual respect. “Mr. Hemphill is an exemplary instructor who shows up for his students, both in class and in outside activities,” stated Kevin’s nominator. “He always finds the time and energy to help us succeed.”
Jessica Trusty was selected as the Classified Employee of the Year. Trusty has been with MCC since 2003, serving as an Accounting Technician II. Jessica goes above and beyond to meet the needs of students and carry out the mission of MCC. She performs her work with efficiency and compassion. One of her nominators stated, “Jessica works with her peers in a professional manner, making suggestions or offering simple, clear, and effective explanations. She uses these interactions as valuable teaching moments.”
MCC Employees of the Year will be honored at a Colorado Community College System (CCCS) Employee Excellence Awards ceremony at the Mayor of Denver’s residence at the Cableland Mansion on April 12, 2022. Coon, Steffen, Hemphill, and Trusty will also receive National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Awards and be given the opportunity to attend the NISOD International Conference on Teaching and Leadership Excellence in Austin, Texas in May.
For more information about Morgan Community College, including employment opportunities, visit MorganCC.edu.
Clockwise: Jeffrey Coon, Gwen Steffen, Jessica Trusty, Kevin Hemphill
