Southwest Virginia Community College has announced the recipients of the 2008 Virginia Workforce Development Services Chancellor’s Award. This honor is awarded annually to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the advancement of the region’s workforce. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the New River Community College with Peter Blake, vice chancellor of workforce development services and Trenton Hightower, assistant vice chancellor of workforce development services, presenting the awards.
Janice Taylor, adjunct professor of English, received the award for Occupation Specific Instructor for her instruction of English and Speech courses to inmates in correctional centers. Jonathan Pruitt, database architect for Northrup Grumman and adjunct professor of Information Technology, received the award for Career Paths for teaching in the Accelerated IST program and mentoring students interested in IT careers. Susan Blansett, former Director of School Food Service in Dickenson County and adjunct instructor of Food Service Management, received the award for Certification and Credentialing Preparations and Exams, for her instruction of the region’s food service workers in the Food Service Managers Sanitation training. Denechia Edwards, Central Office Supervisor for the Dickenson County School Board and adjunct instructor of Computer Applications, received the award for Occupation Specific Instruction and Services for her instruction in Microsoft Office Applications and continued service to students. Sandra Hagy, SVCC Career Coach, received the award for Career Paths for her work assisting students at Tazewell High School and the Tazewell Career & Technical Center with their academic and career plans. Dan Trent, adjunct instructor of Contracting and Building Trades, received the award for Employer Services for assisting with development and implementation of courses in Building Contractor and the Building Trades Recertification.