PBSC employees honored for going ‘above and beyond’
Palm Beach State’s Employee Recognition Committee presented the coveted Bravo Award to three College employees Nov. 7 at the Duncan Theatre on the Lake Worth campus. The ceremony capped off the annual college-wide competition that recognizes employees who go above and beyond the call of duty. The three winners were chosen from a pool of 28, all nominated by peers for their exceptional efforts that embody the College’s mission to foster student success.
The 2014 Bravo Award winners:
Kerry Weiss, PSAV Coordinator, PBSC Fire Academy, Lake Worth campus
Beyond his role as Fire Academy coordinator and the lead instructor for its evening program, Weiss devotes his personal time to running a study group, taking a special interest in helping struggling students overcome obstacles. The study group is just one aspect of his extensive mentoring that has shaped and guided countless academy graduates who are now firefighters in the community.
Nicholas LaRocca, Associate Professor, Communications, Lake Worth campus
LaRocca, who also is a published author, volunteers as a guest speaker for the College’s American Literature classes, even during summer terms when he is not teaching. In his sessions, he reads from his work, engages students in discussion and shares his writing strategies. LaRocca’s dynamic approach broadens students’ understanding of fiction and nonfiction, and inspires many to try writing themselves.
David Childers, Associate Professor, Speech, Belle Glade campus
Throughout the year, students, faculty and staff are tapped to speak at various College and community events. Luckily they can turn to Childers, who has become their ‘go-to’ speech coach. Devoting hours of personal time and expertise, Childers never turns down a request. He pitches in with zeal to help nervous speakers prepare, rehearse and ultimately deliver outstanding presentations.
Recognizing service
In addition to the Bravo Award recipients and nominees, the Employee Recognition Committee honored 170 employees for their length of service at the College, ranging from five to 35 years. Collectively, they represent 2,025 years of employment.
