2013-14 Germanna Community College Academic Awards winners, with comments by the faculty members who nominated them:
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| PTK All-Virginia Academic Team member Dayana Pachon Ramos with GCC President David A. Sam |
Sayed Khalid
Sayed Usman Khalid was a student in my ENG112 class in the fall and is presently a student in my ENG 252 class this spring.
Sayed is a most outstanding student. He is always prepared for his classes; his assignments are always submitted on time; and he is
a student who spends time with his classmates to help them also improve in their English classes.
When Sayed entered my class in September 2013, I recognized what I thought was a student who was quiet and unassuming, speaking with no one in the class. Later, however, when assisting him with one of his essays, I discovered that English is his second
language; he is Pakistani. I could not believe him, because he spoke excellent English. Although he had a good command of the English language, he did need assistance in many of the peculiarities demanded by both APA and MLA documentation. He absorbed
the information so well over the course of the semester that by the end of the semester, he was turning in almost perfect essays.
There is one other very outstanding side to Sayed. In my English 112 classes, I ask my students to team with a classmate to work together and proof each other’s essays. I also schedule a peer review day and a professor review day for their two major essays
over the course of the semester. On both occasions, I noticed that Sayed was also assisting other classmates, not just his teammate.
For the final essay of the semester, a book review of a pre-selected novel, I noticed that Sayed had a group of four or five students around his desk; he was assisting each of his classmates on grammar and punctuation.
Sayed is now in my World Literature class; he continues to shine as a student. His essays are as perfect as they were during the English 112 class. I do not schedule peer review sessions in this class, but I have seen him speak with other students about their
essays. He continues to be a very admirable student and invaluable classmate.
I understand that Sayed has applied to UMW for fall admission; I wrote a recommendation for him that basically states what I have written. I know that Sayed will succeed.
I strongly recommend Sayed as one of the English Award winners for the 2013-2014 year.
Dr. Russell Carter – English
Vanessa Blankenbaker
Vanessa values hard work, and excellence. Her exemplary writing clearly attests to her efforts. In addition, her insightful comments during class discussions enhanced instruction. More importantly, her maturity and concern for others academically and
emotionally, permeated her work ethic throughout her English 111 course.
Vanessa’s desire to improve her peers’ writing was evident through her personal commitment towards helping others. She would
gracefully spend her time assisting other students outside of class hours, so that they could profit from her expertise. A superior
student and special human being, I have been fortunate to teach Vanessa at Germanna Community College. I wish her great success
in the future.
Judith Shane – English
Lisa Allen
As a student in my online ENG112 Composition II class, Lisa Allen impressed me from the beginning with her diligence, creativity and articulate flair. Her “This I Believe” essay began: “I believe that life without pets would be just a run-on sentence.” The essay
is a rich and vivid description of how important pets can be in our lives. Lisa’s essays were always thoughtful and engaging, and she was also a leader in peer editing rough drafts and discussions. Then late in the semester, Lisa wrote to tell me she had been
diagnosed with breast cancer, was having surgery, but still intended to finish the class, the semester, and graduate in December with her RN. I worried immediately about the possible stress on her to finish under the circumstances, but Lisa was truly determined.
In spite of surgery and a second hospitalization from complications, Lisa finished every assignment with her usual style and substance. She graduated with an A in the class, and received her RN in December, with plans to continue for her BSN. When
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in February, I immediately thought of Lisa, and her inspiring attitude. She is one of the first people I told, and she sent words of wisdom and encouragement about the experience. I’ll always admire Lisa’s fortitude, courage
and academic excellence, and appreciate having had her in my class.
Cheryl Huff – English
Samantha “Sam Cam” Camilletti
We all know the feeling of anticipating a new book by our favorite writer. Whether it was a new Harry Potter book, a Nancy Drew mystery we had not read, or another Narnia book, the anticipation of spending more time in a world of words created by
one’s favorite author is like no other.
During the fall semester of this academic year, my new favorite author mysteriously appeared in the online section of Dual Enrollment
English 111. She took me to Italy and shared her observations about the cultural differences she experienced while traveling
there; she shared her interpretation of John Steinbeck’s novella, The Pearl, an Alice Walker story, ”Everyday Use,” and “The
Lottery” by Shirley Jackson. She compared and contrasted; she explored causes and effects; with a group, she contributed 100 percent
to her assigned part of a project and worked extremely well with her fellow group members.
Everything I read by her was a riveting, dynamic story; she used words I’d rarely seen, much less spoken; her sentences had a special magic. I shared one of her papers with a University of California professor who said, “If only it were longer.” Indeed.
I have never met this student in person because in an online class, the action takes place on the screen, the interaction is via email and discussion board and comments. I have taught English for many, many years, and one of the highlights of my teaching career
was reading what Samantha Camilletti -- also known as “Sam Cam” -- wrote last fall in English 111.
This evening, Samantha is presented with the newly-named Perry McSherry Dual Enrollment Award for Excellence in English.
Leigh Hancock – English
Alexandra Tan
It is my pleasure to nominate Alexandra Tan for consideration for the English Award.
Alexandra is a rarity in the average freshman composition class; she writes at a truly advanced level. My responses to her writing
are never corrections of existing problems; instead, my feedback has been about how to make her already strong writing even stronger. She accepts this challenge and her already sophisticated writing has become even more so.
Alexandra does not shy away from academic challenges. Recently, she crafted a thoughtful research topic proposal on Sexuality and Video Games; however, her initial research endeavors proved disappointing. There did not appear to be others arguing what
she had to say. While Alexandra briefly considered changing topics to something more easily researched, she ultimately decided to stay the course with her original topic. Her perseverance gave us the opportunity to have conversations about how her argument
and not those of her sources was what mattered most. With a little work, we were able to find sources that will work as support for her original and interesting argument about the topic. I look forward to reading her final paper.
Alexandra’s ability to process complex ideas and theories and then apply them to class discussion or reading demonstrates a critical-thinking aptitude that would do her well in future academic or professional pursuits. I have no doubt that Alexandra will
excel at whatever career path she chooses – and I wish her all the best.
Gina Terry – English
Karlee Simpkins
It is my pleasure to nominate Karlee Simpkins for consideration for the English Award.
When I walk into the classroom, one of the first things I do is look to see if Karlee is in attendance (she always is). She is one of those students who engages with the material and with others in the classroom; in other words, she is one of those students
with whom classroom interaction is a delight. She is reliably participatory, and almost always has some insight into a reading or pertinent question to raise. Karlee presents her ideas and her opinions in a manner that shows consideration of others, and her
participation usually ensures that others will jump into the discussion as well. In Peer Review Sessions, I have noticed that Karlee has a knack for constructive criticism – she responds thoughtfully and with detail to the writing of her peers. She applies the same
detail-oriented review to her own writing.
Our English 112 class recently tackled a somewhat dense theoretical work. Karlee dove into the work with enthusiasm and was able to take some of the theories about visual and textual rhetoric and apply it to other discussions. As we begin to venture into
our final research project, Karlee’s initial work shows that she understands the writing process and the advantage of combining academic and popular sources to help support her original argument.
Her ability to process and apply complicated readings shows an aptitude for critical thinking that should serve her well in college
and beyond. I wish her all the best.
Gina Terry – English
Matthew Abbott
I would like to nominate Matthew Alexander Abbott for the history award. Matthew has shown a great interest in American history scoring an almost perfect grade in History 121. It is rare that a student receives the grade of 100 on my tests, Matthew has received
this grade on a test and on his research paper. He answers questions in class and often greatly adds to the class discussions. I am very pleased to nominate him for this award. He well deserves the recognition.
Edwin Watson – History
Christina Hanson
Ms. Christina Hanson is nominated for this year’s Academic Honoree Ceremony from the History and Humanities Department due to
her unstinting commitment to excellence in scholastic endeavors. Ms. Hanson is well on her way to launching a career in public service
by studying earth sciences, with a specialization in oceanography. Her ambition is to attain a position with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration. Her abiding interest in helping others as well as her demonstrated aptitude for physical sciences combine at
present in her dedication to tutoring other students in chemistry. In the HIS 101 Western Civilization discipline, Ms. Hanson displayed
her keen intellect in applying critical thinking skills to understanding environmental factors and the impact of those factors on the
development of human institutions from the Stone Age to the Age of the Enlightenment. Her willingness to contribute to class discussions
greatly facilitated attaining learning objectives for the entire class in a manner that respected the dignity and different aptitudes of
other students. Ms. Hanson is a great asset to the Germanna Community College community and her future academic and professional
accomplishments will undoubtedly reflect great credit upon both this College and the entire Virginia Community College System.
Sean Griffin – History
Justin Jones
Justin Jones completed three of the most difficult MTE modules in under four weeks’ time this spring. He accomplished this feat after completing and passing MTE’s 1-5 during the first four weeks session. He ultimately completed 32 weeks of work in a span of eight
weeks. Justin demonstrated a great deal of initiative and determination in completing his work in record time.
Stacie Ferry – Mathematics
Jennifer Butler
Jennifer Butler was extremely successful in finishing her MTE classes more quickly than prescribed while facing personal barriers and struggles throughout the year. She never gave up! Jennifer always arrived to class early. She was extremely helpful to other students
both in encouraging them and assisting them with their work while working on her own things. Jennifer showed genuine concern for her learning as well as that of others.
Stacie Ferry – Mathematics
Victoria Scisco
Victoria Scisco goes over and beyond what a lot of students do. She reads ahead, tries to do her work ahead of time and still takes down all notes from class. She is very efficient and conscientious.
Denise Ford – Mathematics
Candice Roberts
Candice Roberts is at the top of the class in Differential Equations. She started at GCC in the summer of 2011 as a 15-year-old homeschool student, taking our Precalculus I class. She is now 18, nearing graduation from high school, and excelling in Differential Equations.
She’s friendly and gets along well with her classmates. She’s also brilliant, asks thoughtful questions, and never misses anything.
She keeps me on my toes.
Dr. Lisa Murphy – Mathematics
Deanna Greenwood
Deanna Greenwood is great. She is an 18-year-old home-school graduate. I had her for combined Pre-Calculus I and II last semester which was her first semester here. In what has proven to be a very tough class for entering freshman, Deanna earned the top
A, with a course average of 98%. She earned A’s on every individual homework assignment, in-class quiz, unit exams and the final, often earning 100% credit. She is now at the top of my Calculus I class. She is bright, works hard, gets along with everyone, and is
very consistent and reliable. Deanna’s work is neat, readable, well-organized, always on time, and reliably correct. She seems a bit
surprised to be doing so well. I don’t think she thought of herself as a math genius, but she certainly performs like one.
Dr. Lisa Murphy – Mathematics
Nathaniel Moore
Nathaniel Moore is completing his certificate in Paraprofessional Counseling. His internship with the Vision Program in Culpeper gave him the opportunity to learn first-hand how to help in the Mental Health field. He assisted and advocated for consumers by
encouraging their growth and recovery. His work as a student has been exceptional, showing not only knowledge and dedication but passion and ability for helping others reach their dreams. He has been like a mentor to other internship students as well, frequently
sending them encouraging words via the Blackboard discussion or in class. Nathaniel clearly demonstrates the counseling
skills of empathy, respect and genuineness to all that meet him.
Dr. J. Gayle Wolfe – Psychology
Rachel Wright
Rachel Wright is completing her certificate in Paraprofessional Counseling. Her internship with the disAbility Resource Center in Fredericksburg gave her the opportunity to learn about her own skills while also learning about and providing resources for
the community. She developed a training program for women’s health issues and disabilities. According to her supervisor at the center “she demonstrated major potential to make an important contribution to this community”. I have had Rachel for three
Psychology classes and her work is consistently in the top of her classes. She participates above and beyond the requirements and takes advantage of out of class opportunities to expand her knowledge. In addition, Rachel is a delightful person to know!
Dr. J. Gayle Wolfe – Psychology
Addam Baxter
Addam Baxter is at the top of the three BIO 102 courses taught by Dr. Trudy Witt. He is an outstanding student. He is highly motivated and very serious about his studies. Addam was one of the first students Dr. Witt met this semester, because he came to
her office at the first of the semester to introduce himself. He has been at the top of the class all semester despite having surgery.
His studies never suffered, he returned to class with all his assignments completed. Addam hopes to attend Virginia Tech next
semester. Although he has not decided for sure on a major, he is very interested in Forest Resource Management and hopes to
help ensure that our natural resources are conserved for future generations.
Dr. Trudy Witt – Science
Blake Carlson
Blake is an outstanding student. She is enthusiast about biology and shares her enthusiasm with her classmates motivating them to achieve their potential. She is disappointed if we are unable to complete all sections of the laboratory due to time constraints.
Following Germanna, she plans to attend VCU and receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Medicine and a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy. She volunteers at a Physical Therapy office to gain experience to better qualify for her intended profession. Of
her volunteer work she says, “I LOVE it, it doesn’t even feel like work!”
Dr. Trudy Witt – Science
Megan Harlan
Megan Harlan has been in my BIO 101 and 102 classes this academic year, and has been an outstanding student. She is always prepared for class, and has volunteered as a note-taker for a student with special accommodations. I do not really need to grade
Megan’s exam papers because I know she will always turn in an excellent paper. The other students in her laboratory group must be thankful for her presence, because of her organizational skills in completing the lab exercise. I am certain that Megan will be successful in her endeavors.
Dr. Michael Read – Science
Clara Sigmon
I met Clara when she enrolled in Biology 101 in the summer 2013 semester. Clara was prepared for class, collaborated in lab exercises and in assignments, participated in class discussions, attended optional, Saturday Study Groups and earned a high A in the
class. During the class we got to know one another and I became her unofficial mentor. Clara volunteered as my student aide in the fall 2013 semester. She attended and assisted with labs and Study Groups and made herself available to students who needed
quick advice. She referred students to me or to tutoring when appropriate. Clara was a huge help in the microscopy lab where she could help students learn about the microscope controls and about patience in viewing specimens. Clara’s love of Biology,
coupled with her curiosity and discipline enable her to connect with students as peers and model the behavior that allows them to
succeed in Biology, as well as in other courses. This semester her schedule is less compatible with my course schedule, so she is
unable to be a regular, visible presence in my classes.
Outside the confines of my classroom, Clara’s performance is consistently excellent. This is reflected in her recent induction
into Phi Theta Kappa academic honor society. She gets to this level of excellence through hard work and by availing herself of the many academic enrichment opportunities at Germanna. For example Clara utilized the writing center, the tutoring center, online
course supplements, formal and informal Study Groups and the Germanna library. This allows her to ramp up her learning and deepen her knowledge base while earning top grades.
listed as a top 500 science blog and invited to review papers. Not bad for a college sophomore.
Outside Germanna, Clara and I meet on a regular basis for lunch and discussion. While I serve as her unofficial mentor, she serves as a sounding board for my ideas to improve students’ engagement and overall understanding in Biology. Clara’s work
ethic, enthusiasm and pursuit of future goals make her a worthy candidate for a Germanna Student Award for overall student well-being.
Dr. JoAnn Schrass – Science
Melissa Maille
During the fall 2013 semester (BIO 101 lecture and lab courses) she demonstrated excellent performance (the top of the class), exceptional knowledge of the subject beyond the curriculum and genuine interest in biological science.
Dr. Alexander Kofman – Science
Lyndsie Jessee
Lyndsie Jessee was selected by the dental hygiene faculty for the Golden Scaler Award based on her clinical achievement.
Misty Mesimer – Dental Hygiene
Toni Cantillon
Toni Cantillon was nominated for the Student Total Achievement Recognition Award is funded by Colgate Oral Pharmaceuticals.
This award is for the student who demonstrates true dedication to the dental hygiene profession, exhibits compassion in patient care, displays enthusiasm for community service, and enjoys the role of the dental hygienist. The recipient is not necessarily the
strongest academically or clinically but will make a positive contribution to the dental hygiene profession. The recipient will receive an award certificate and have their name inscribed on a school plaque.
Misty Mesimer – Dental Hygiene
Amy Caywood
Amy Caywood was nominated for the Lynn Garris-Sheldon Community Service Award for her demonstration superior client interaction and community involvement. She organized and volunteered for many community events. She will have her name
inscribed on a school plaque at the Locust Grove Campus.
Misty Mesimer – Dental Hygiene
Conchetta “Shemel” Brevard
Conchetta “Shemel” Brevard was nominated for the Virginia Dental Hygienists’ Assn. annual student award. This award is based on the student’s scholastic ability, clinical proficiency, and professional contributions. Additionally, the recipient of this
award must be a student who will be practicing in the Commonwealth of Virginia for at least the first year of employment. The student’s membership dues for their first year of American Dental Hygienists’ Association Membership will be paid for by the
VDHA.
Misty Mesimer – Dental Hygiene
Alexandra Tan
Alexandra is enrolled in Lifetime Fitness and Wellness this semester. Over the course of the semester Alex was a regular and active participant in both class discussions and activities. She was attentive and receptive, demonstrating critical thinking skills and
asking questions to delve deeper into the areas of exercise and nutrition. She was able to demonstrate her applied knowledge through self-reflective assignments, showing the relationship between lifestyle choices and health outcomes and is a leader in
modeling positive health habits.
John Stroffolino – Health
Rhys Williams
The Kathryn Korzenewski award is given to the RN graduate with the highest grade point average. Rhys Williams is the class president and is the outgoing Chairman of the GCC Student Nursing Council for spring semester 2014. A United States Navy
Veteran, Rhys distinguished himself as a leader for the Navy and Marine Corps health care team as a Navy Corpsman. He is trained as an EMT and works as an ER tech in the Sentara Health Care System. He has applied to the UVA RN to BSN program
for this fall.
Sue Skinner – Nursing
Tara Summers
The Dr. Jane R. Ingalls Professional Excellence award is given to Tara Summers. Tara has overcome many personal obstacles to complete her RN degree. She has served as an informal leader while at Germanna, quietly assisting her classmates and mentoring
those students coming behind her, preparing them for the expectations in the last semester of their program. In the clinical setting, she has displayed caring and compassion to her patients and serves as an example of a selfless team member to her
classmates.
Sue Skinner – Nursing
Rebecca Weigeshoff
The Mary Blessing Gilkey Spirit award is given to Rebecca Weigeshoff. As the leader of the winning first place team “RN’d and Dangerous” at the Nursing NCLEX Bowl this spring, she was the example of positive energy. Always smiling, Rebecca has demonstrated
tremendous spirit during her time in the nursing program. She has overcome obstacles with persistence and confidence in order to see her own dreams become a reality. She embodies caring, excitement, and enthusiasm for the nursing profession.
Rebecca plans to complete her BSN in the very near future and will be an asset to the nursing profession as she moves forward.
Sue Skinner – Nursing
Stacey Shepard
The Dale Featherston Perseverance award is given to Stacey Shepherd. Stacey has overcome tremendous personal obstacles to achieve what she has today. Stacey has demonstrated extreme perseverance, dedication, focus, and enthusiasm in pursuing her
nursing education. Stacey shows an attitude of caring and is a leader among her peers. Her commitment to the profession of nursing should be an example for all students. Stacey will be an asset to the profession of nursing.
Sue Skinner – Nursing
Allison Mann
The Martha Jackson Mentorship award for spring 2014 is given to Allison Mann. This award is given to the student whom the faculty feels best demonstrates the caring compassion for classmates and teamwork throughout their program. Allison has been a
dedicated student at GCC with an earned GPA of 3.52. In her college career with coursework at several colleges and universities through the years, Allison has a quiet confidence that allows her to help others in their quest to be a nurse. Germanna is fortunate
to have her as graduate of our nursing program.
Sue Skinner – Nursing
Elizabeth D’Sani
The Florence Nightingale Award is voted upon by the class for the peer whom they feel epitomizes “The Nurse”. The Florence Nightingale winner for the RN class of spring 2014 is Elizabeth D’Sani. Lisa has juggled family and school while working as an
LPN. One of her classmates shared that “Lisa is an amazing LPN and is such a joy to watch during clinical. To me she was born to be a nurse. Everywhere we go, former patients and family members recognize Lisa and stop her and say hello and hug her. She is
incredible.” The rest of her classmates agree.
Sue Skinner – Nursing
Hector Nunez
The LaSalla-Henry Award is given by the Greater Fredericksburg Area chapter of the American Association of Critical Care Nurse to the rising second year student in memory of two wonderful critical care nurses. This award is given to Hector Nunez. Hector
is a proud United States Marine Corps combat veteran who served in both Afghanistan and Iraq. He is a father of 6 and a dedicated and engaged student who aspires to emergency room or Intensive Care nursing. We look forward to working with Hector
as he finished his RN degree at Germanna.
Sue Skinner – Nursing
Jennifer Fortin
The Mary Blessing Gilkey Spirit award is given to Jennifer Fortin. Jennifer has been a natural leader. She has served as class president and has been an integral part of the LPN class service project “Nursing our Military” in which we collected goods and
sent to our troops overseas. Jennifer has always had a passion for serving the needs of our military as she has several service men and women she writes to regularly. She also devotes time to elderly patients at a local nursing home.
Heather Cannova – Practical Nursing
Matthew Kovach
The Florence Nightingale Award is voted upon by a student’s peers. The Florence Nightingale Award for the LPN class of 2014 is Matthew Kovach. Matt has brightened the mood of his fellow classmates with his witty humor and pep talks throughout his
time in the PN program. Not only is he giving to his fellow students, but he volunteers his time to those in need at a local soup kitchen. Matt continues to encourage and support his classmates when they are in need.
Heather Cannova – Practical Nursing
Crystal Short
The Academic Excellence Award for Practical Nursing Students is given to Crystal Short. Crystal has worked as a full time mom and student all the while maintaining an excellent grade point average. She is a devoted student, who is always willing to
help her fellow students when they have trouble grasping a concept or idea. She remains devoted to her education and will no
doubt make an excellent nurse.
Heather Cannova – Practical Nursing
Brian Brown
Brian has been my student in both semesters of Principles of Accounting and has done exceptionally well academically in both courses. I am particularly impressed with Brian’s willingness to grapple with problems until he thoroughly understands them and
to go far beyond doing just enough to score well on a test. He has volunteered for extra work on several occasions and regularly stays after class to discuss an issue that is troubling him.
Charles Trainum – Accounting
Keith Williams
I met Keith last semester when he enrolled in the fall ADJ courses. I noticed right away that Keith was a motivated student and scholar. With a 4.0 average to date, Keith is an outstanding student. But more than that, I noticed how engaged he was in class.
He came to class ready to comment on the subject matter by ensuring that he kept up with the weekly readings. He worked well within his group and individually which can be difficult. He was always quick to point out to me if a quiz question was lacking
clarity or assignment was unclear, all of which I found helpful. His attitude towards the school work and life in general was always so pleasant and positive. I found him to be a role model for all.
Jillian Noel – Administration of Justice
Robert Soto
Mr. Soto who has a GPA of 4.0 has taken several classes with me. He has been a pleasure to work with. His work is always top notch and he always works well with the other students. Presently, he is taking courses at ODU. He will continue to take courses
here at GCC as a distance learning student.
Jillian Noel – Administration of Justice
Tam Bui
I met Mr. Bui earlier this year when he enrolled in ADJ 201 for the 8w1 course. It was a very fast spaced course. Mr. Bui was having some difficulties adjusting to taking such a rigorous course load. However, he did not give up.
He really worked hard. He asked questions for clarification as he does now. I admire his tenacity. I spoke with another one of his instructors who repeated what I stated earlier, that he works hard and she has seen a tremendous amount of improvement. I hope
he will continue his progression upwards and never lose his positive spirit. I know he will do just fine.
Jillian Noel – Administration of Justice
Kristin Grant
While Germanna is fortunate to have many very talented art students, Kristin Grant already is a “real” artist. In addition to producing a large portfolio of quality paintings, she created all her art marketing materials on her own initiative, including posters,
signs, and painting labels for each art show she entered; business cards; and her own artworks web page. She already participates in area juried art shows and art events, including the Small Painting Juried Show, LibertyTown Arts Workshop; Backdoor Gallery
Group Show, and Art Attack, an event promoting fine arts in Fredericksburg. She was one of the featured Germanna artists at the March 2014 Studio A Show and the November 2013 Lions Club Annual Art & Wine Show, where she sold eight paintings in one
evening. Kristin works equally hard at her studies and maintains a 3.88 grade average. She is the last student to leave art class, using every minute to refine her quirky imagery that combines realism with elements of whimsy, fantasy and horror. Professional,
diligent, independent, and imaginative, Kristin Grant is the outstanding Art Student of the Year for Fine Arts.
Jean Lauzon – Art
Dantee Benton
Dante Benton never uses his traumatic brain injury sustained while a Marine serving our country as an excuse for not doing his work. Rather, he overcomes his memory processing difficulties with a steadfast effort that is a positive example to his classmates.
Cheerful and tireless, he takes all comments from his much younger graphics instructors very seriously. When his concept for a flyer was deemed “ordinary,” he bravely threw out his entire project and developed a much more creative and visually arresting
flyer featuring an imagined rapid transit system for Batman’s Gotham City. While figuring out how to successfully adapt his ideas to a visual format, he achieved a mastery of computer graphics skills and, in the process, improved more than any other graphics
student. At the same time, he has maintained a 3.65 grade average in all his Germanna studies. Dantee is a both a role model and
personal advisor to other students as he strives to learn, improve, and express himself as a graphic artist. He greatly deserves the
title of Art Student of the Year for Graphics Communications.
Jean Lauzon – Art
Angela Miller
As an adult student, Angela truly knows the value of an education, and she does not take classes only for the grade to be awarded, but for the learning that should occur during the course. She is always prepared for class and can always be counted on to ask
provocative and content related questions. Her life experiences make her a valuable addition to the class. Her writing and verbal skills are excellent, and she is a great role model to the other students in the class.
Don Frank – Business
Bridget Johnson CHD
Bridget is a longtime owner/operator of a family day care center. Her program reflects a caring, nurturing environment utilizing best practices for supporting critical early education activities for emerging literacy. Bridget is committed to her ongoing professional
development and regularly attends early childhood workshops and conferences. As a student she generously shares her time and expertise by mentoring fellow students. In addition to balancing family, academics, and operating a business, Bridget is
faithful volunteer for early childhood community events.
Beverly Abrams – Early Childhood Education
Lesa Beach CHD
Lesa is employed by Stafford Head Start teaching four year olds for over twenty years. She sets her goals high and pursues them with passion and commitment. The quality of her coursework is always outstanding, demonstrating a strong working knowledge
of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood education. Lesa actively participates in volunteer work in the field of early care and education. Many young children in the Stafford Head Start program have had the benefit of a year in Ms. Lesa’s
nurturing classroom, engaging in activities that prepare them for future academic success. She also has served as a mentor to fellow
students and to her Head Start co-workers.
Beverly Abrams – Early Childhood Education
Jennifer Bognar
I have had Jennifer in several of my business and economics classes and she is truly a “star student”. She always has a smile on her face and is willing to help anyone during class projects. She is active in the community striving to increase the awareness of
Downs Syndrome. This is especially important to her since her little sister has Downs Syndrome. Just a couple weeks ago Jennifer won the Germanna student talent show contest!!! She is an asset to Germanna and it would be fitting to recognize her as
one of our outstanding students.
Tina Lance – Economics
Jake Greathouse
Mr. Jake Greathouse is being recognized as the 2014 Best Mechanical Engineering Student. Jake chose to major in engineering because having all of his studies centered around calculus was a dream come true for him. Jake stands out among his peers for his
outstanding achievements in his math, science and engineering courses evident by his 3.673 GPA. In addition to his studies, Jake works as a server at Vinny’s Italian Grill. He admits that: “In the beginning it was pretty difficult to keep up with school work,
seeing that I was always exhausted from many hours at work. So I made the decision to make school my top priority and cut back my time at Vinny’s.” His passion for the engineering field and his dedication to his engineering studies are reflected in his financial
choices. While working at Vinny’s, he has saved up over $10,000 to pay for his classes at Virginia Tech beginning in fall 2014.
Jake’s nomination was provided by Dr. Davyda Hammond, mechanical engineering professor, who had these words to share: “Jake
is a student who strives for excellence – he actively contributes to the class discussions, assists his classmates with difficult concepts,
and regularly looks for ways to connect topics across disciplines and subjects. Whenever I mention Jake to another math or
science professor, the responses are always filled with accolades on Jake’s understanding, work habits, and thoughtful questions.”
We are very proud of Jake and confident that he will excel as he continues his studies at Virginia Tech.
Dr. Davyda Hammond – Engineering
Kevin Riley
Mr. Kevin Riley is being recognized as the 2014 Best Electrical Engineering Student. Kevin Riley is a part-time student who has a 4.0 GPA. He works full-time for the U.S. Navy at Dahlgren as an electronics technician, supporting Electromagnetic Environmental
Effects (E3) testing to ensure safe operation of the equipment used by the U.S. military. In this role, he maintains and repairs electromagnetic transmitters, designs and develops unique electromagnetic measurement equipment, and performs E3
testing. Prior to working for the Navy, Kevin was an automotive technician. Kevin moved to Virginia from Massachusetts in 2006, and he and his wife live in King George with their foxhound.
Kevin’s nomination was provided by Dr. Greg Tait, electrical engineering professor, who had these words to share: “Kevin is a dedicated, conscientious student who works hard and is rewarded with success. Although quiet and reserved, he does have
the confidence in his knowledge and ability that a good engineer needs to solve problems. Kevin will be a top performer at Germanna. I’d love to have many more like him!” Kevin plans to obtain his B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering through the
PRODUCED in Virginia program.
Dr. Greg Tait – Engineering
Vincent Adkins
Mr. Vincent Adkins is being recognized as the 2014 Best First-Year Engineering Student. Vincent spent six years in the U.S. Navy as an Electronics Technician prior to his Germanna studies. While in the Navy, his primary focus was on the operation and maintenance
of surface search and air search systems along with various navigational GPS programs. While pursuing his engineering studies at Germanna, Vincent works at Warplay Paintball on the weekends – a sport he has been playing since 7 years of age.
Vincent is pursuing his Associates degree in Electrical Engineering and maintains an impressive 3.917 GPA. Upon completion of his Germanna studies, Vincent plans to transfer to Virginia Tech to double major in Electrical Engineering and Mathematics while
also trying to fit in some classes in Education to possibly become a professor one day.
Vincent’s nomination was provided by the engineering programming professor, Dr. Amy O’Brien, who had these words to share: “Vincent Adkins is an outstanding engineering student. His attendance record is excellent; he is always engaged and attentive;
and he participates in every class. He always goes above and beyond in level of effort in all assignments and quizzes--consistently turning in extra credit assignments and completing all assignments with great attention to detail--and his grades have all been
excellent. He is going to be an outstanding engineer!” We are proud to have Vincent as part of our Engineering program, and we expect him to continue his excellent record in his second-year coursework.
Dr. Amy O’Brien – Engineering
David Henry
David Henry is completing the Career Studies Certificate in Horticulture and has maintained a 4.0 grade point average throughout the program. He is an outstanding student who is always well prepared for exams, and has completed a number of projects
that have been very well done. David has been able to apply his horticultural knowledge to the horticultural therapy program that he directs for young boys in a residential program. I am certain that they have benefited from his enthusiasm and knowledge.
Dr. Michael Read – Horticulture
Jennifer Garrick
In addition to technical excellence, Jennifer has a great eye for design as evidenced by the Web Site project she implemented. She is the type of student that takes what she learns in class, applies it to her assignments, but will then search for ways to learn about
and apply more esoteric concepts that most students shy away from.
Diana Merkel – Information Systems Technology
2013-2014 All-Virginia Academic Team Finalists
Selection was based on scores earned in the All-USA Academic Team competition. The program is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and is administered by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Stefano Sarris
Stefano serves as a student ambassador at Germanna. He has a 4.0 GPA and was selected a 2014 Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Silver Scholar! Stefano hopes to attend Cornell University to study environmental science.
Christine Chester
With a 3.71 GPA, Christine plans to study for a BSN after she completes the RN program at Germanna. She currently serves as president of the college’s Alpha Lambda Psi PTK chapter under whose leadership the chapter has grown 25% in membership. Christine has been a homemaker for the past 20 years. Although her family is a priority for her, she does not neglect her need and desire to have a profession. Christine’s community service experience includes assisting with hearing
and vision screening of middle school children.
Dayana Pachon Ramos
With a GPA of 4.0, Dayana has a strong passion for life and a desire to continue her studies to earn a bachelor’s degree in international affairs. She is committed to working to protect human rights and hopes that her ability to speak English,
Spanish, and Portuguese will be an asset.
Jennifer Dawn Baggett
Jennifer is a second-year RN student maintaining a 3.98 GPA. She expects to pursue a BSN.
• • • • • • • • • • •
Collegiate Assessment of
Academic Proficiency Awards
Scientific Reasoning
Joshua E. Bellamy
Critical Thinking
Joshua Christensen
Matthew Snyder
Tyler Griffin
Allison St. Cyr
Mathematical Reasoning
William Andrews
