Three support staff members recognized for outstanding work

(From left) Anita Tucker-McFarland, Eric Manarang and Paula Wilson recieve the 2012 Oustanding Support Staff.

Instructional Administrative Assistant Paula Wilson was awarded the first of three 2012 Outstanding Support Staff awards Friday, Jan. 27.

The OSS selection committee was overwhelmed with nominations that praised her for her relationship with the students, faculty and staff, according to a Jan. 26 MHCC press release.

Wilson works at the Bruning Center as an administrative assistant. She helps students with everything from making coffee and popcorn to class work. Wilson is a registered nurse and a teacher.

Many students expressed their appreciation for Wilson when they wrote that they looked to Wilson for encouragement, guidance and support.
“It’s good to get to know the students and be able to watch them advance,” said Wilson.

With the help of Wilson’s colleague Chrissy Bloome, President Hay surprised Wilson with flowers, balloons and the award last Friday afternoon.

Wilson celebrated with her family over dinner that night.

Eric Manarang, lead custodian at the Gresham campus, was also awarded the 2012 Outstanding Support Staff Award last Friday. Manarang was selected for the OSS based on nominations from co-workers that cited his natural leadership skills, character and communication skills as reasons for recognition.

According to the Jan. 26 press release “Eric stories are told all over campus.”
Mangarang said he was completely shocked, overwhelmed and speechless when he was urged to give a speech.

“All I could think to say was thank you,” said Mangarang.

Mangarang thanked his bosses “for providing a solid foundation for him and his co-workers. They’re great mentors. We are successful because they’ve provided excellent examples.”

Mangarang also expressed his appreciation for his co-workers and the students of MHCC.

“This (OSS award) doesn’t just belong to me. It should go to the whole team, I couldn’t do this by myself,” he said. “Our main function (the custodial staff) is to serve the students. We are constantly trying to provide better service,” said Mangarang.

Workforce Development Specialist Arnita Tucker-McFarland was presented with the third award Thursday morning at WorkSource Portand Metro East.
Pam Benjamin, Confidential Executive Assistant to the President, wrote in an email, “She visits these workers during all shifts, and provides workshops on the job site. She even provides a translator if necessary. Arnita has developed a series of motivational workshops called “Keep it Fresh.

These are monthly workshops with a variety of topics to help job seekers stay engaged, motivated, and teaches them to develop their networking skills.”
Tucker-McFarland said, “I was truly surprised. It’s an honor to be recognized by such an awesome group of people. Anyone at this office is deserving of the award. I would’ve been happy if anyone got it. Everyone here is so skilled and talented. I’m very grateful and honored.”

Tucker-McFarland, Wilson and Manarang were awarded $500 checks from the MHCC Foundation.

Award recipients will be recognized at the Feb. 8 board meeting.

Advocate Staff