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The California Community Colleges Board of Governors presented the 2023 Classified Employee of the Year Awards to five individuals across the state. Joan Jarret of Feather River College was one of those honored.

Recipients are nominated by their colleagues and endorsed by the local board of trustees. Winners are selected by representatives from the Board of Governors, the Consultation Council and the Chancellor’s Office based on their commitment to the Vision for Success, the mission of community colleges and their professional standards.

“Our classified staff plays a critical role in our system and most importantly in the success of our students,” said Board of Governors President Amy M. Costa. The other winners were from College of the Canyons, College of the Desert, the Los Angeles Community College District and Long Beach City College.

The announcement from the Chancellor’s office read: “Joan Jarrett has served Feather River College for the past 15 years. Throughout this time and through multiple roles, Jarrett has streamlined the college’s efforts to better support students through the learning experience. Her myriad efforts have advanced the college’s work in reducing equity gaps, especially for students who are at risk of falling off their educational plans and providing them with the support and confidence they need to succeed. In her current role as program coordinator of the Instructional Resource Center, Jarrett strives to build a community where students can grow academically and personally. Colleagues say Jarrett is equally devoted to her co-workers, advocating for regular professional development, particularly focusing on DEIA activities, and promoting other strategies to improve student success outcomes.”

Following are some of the comments made by her colleagues in nominating her for the recognition.

“As a testament to her impact, graduates frequently cite “Ms. Joan” as an individual who had a positive impact on their success at FRC.” – Dr. Derek Lerch, VP instruction

“Joan is an advocate for students … The Instructional Resource Center is known as a hub for activity where students can grow academically.” – Michelle Petroelje, Director Student Equity & Achievement

“Joan’s role in the Instructional Resource Center allows her to interact with our diverse student body daily… Many of our students come from other states and countries, and Joan has been asked multiple times by students to be a stand-in parent for a celebratory event due to the positive relationship they have developed. – Carlie McCarthy, VP Student Services

“After the Dixie Fire, Joan offered open campus talks about dealing with tragedy. She was the unofficial contact for any student who lost their home in the Dixie Fire, serving as a friend, sympathetic listener, and compassionate person to discuss the tragedy they collectively lived through.” – Dr. Kevin Trutna, FRC President

“As one of her students who works very closely with here, she was my rock at times throughout the year. She is a great listener and is genuinely a kind person.” – Morgan Collins, FRC student athlete and Instructional Resource Center student tutor