In a notable nod to their unwavering dedication to student development, two outstanding faculty members from El Paso Community College (EPCC) have snagged prestigious statewide awards. The commendations, courtesy of the College Academic Support Programs (CASP), are set to light up the virtual space at the organization's annual conference this Friday.
Leading the charge is Donna Muñoz, an English Associate Professor with a staggering 19-year service record at EPCC. In an announcement, somewhat dramatic considering the academic context, but hey, educators rarely get their due, Muñoz has secured the CASP Lifetime Achievement Award. “This prestigious honor reflects an educator's enduring commitment to student success, their leadership in the field, and the lasting impact they've made on colleagues and communities throughout their career thus far," CASP stated, as per EPCC News. Graciously, Muñoz shared the glory with her team, “It's humbling that my peers at EPCC and across the state recognize the commitment and passion I carry for our Developmental Education students and their success, but this award doesn't only reflect me; it also reflects the determined support and endeavors of my colleagues and my Dean, Daniel Guerra,” she told EPCC News.
Not to be overshadowed, Margie Nelson Rodríguez, a trailblazer in her own right from EPCC, will also be stepping into the spotlight. Rodríguez will collect the Gladys R. Shaw Professional Development Award, a tribute to the eponymous director who was tireless in her efforts for student support. “I'm very excited to earn the Gladys R. Shaw Professional Development Award because it is a recognition of our work at the college to emphasize professional development in our developmental education reform,” Rodríguez expressed, as obtained by EPCC News. “Finally, the award's namesake is from El Paso, which is a nice connection.”
