#InspiringExcellence – East Central College Advocates Receive Statewide Recognition

#InspiringExcellence – East Central College Advocates Receive Statewide Recognition

November 7, 2016 | ,

Jim Perry, Josie Weir and Brenda Garrison were all honored at the Missouri Community College Association’s Fifty-Second Annual Convention on November 2-4 – for their dedication, hard work and selflessness.

Perry was honored with the Trustee Leadership Award–presented annually to a community college trustee whose work and leadership has substantially advanced the mission of community colleges.

“I believe a good trustee has a strong desire to serve the college and community,” Perry explained, “a deep sense of appreciation for the mission of the college, and the willingness to devote the time and effort required to help the college fulfill that mission.”

Perry was first elected to the East Central College Board of Trustees in 1998, and was re-elected in 2004 and 2010. He was elected board president in 2006, and continued to serve in that position until his retirement.

Weir received the Student Leadership Award — presented annually to an exceptional student leader from each of Missouri’s community colleges/campuses.  Students are recommended for the award by their college/campus president/chancellor and chief student affairs officer.

“I enjoy helping other students feel more comfortable on campus by getting them involved with the community and showing them more than just a classroom,” Weir said.

Weir currently serves as the President of the Art Club at ECC. She tirelessly leads efforts to interact and reach the community with artistic endeavors.
Garrison was bestowed with the Senior Service Award– presented annually to a long-serving employee from each of Missouri’s community colleges/campuses. She has been employed at the college for 30 years and has spent her entire career providing support to the Nursing and Allied Health Division.

Garrison was chosen from thousands of peers across the state for her outstanding leadership, innovation and support of East Central College.

“Each day holds something new,” Garrison said. “ECC is a warm environment in which to work.   I have also enjoyed seeing hundreds of nursing, EMS and dental assisting graduates make it in the ‘real’ world. It’s very rewarding to see a student come to campus, graduate and then join the workforce as a productive employee.”

The Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) is a statewide organization through which Missouri’s community colleges work together to advance common agendas.  MCCA brings the state’s 12 colleges together for advocacy, professional development, information and collaboration.