GCC staff recognized for excellence

By KIM ZECKOVICH

Director of Admissions, Marketing and

Community Relations, Gogebic Community College

Ironwood - Gary Gouin, of White Pine, and Mary Beth Barlock of Bergland, were recently honored with the 2017 awards of excellence at Gogebic Community College. Gouin, a welding instructor, received the Award for Excellence and Innovation in Teaching, while Barlock, administrative assistant to the Dean of Business, received the Award for Excellence in Staff Services.

The teaching award recognizes "extraordinary accomplishment in all aspects of teaching and learning" at GCC, while the staff award recognizes "excellence in service and significant contributions" to the college. Nominations are submitted by members of the faculty and staff, with a committee representing all groups across campus selecting the winners.

Comments in Gouin's nomination include: "Gary is always promoting the college, curriculum and students. He sees each student's strengths and supports those individual strengths while, at the same time, helps students discover other areas of creativity within themselves.

"Gary remains current in the field, keeping up with today's technology. He is always the person who sits and listens, digesting everything, before speaking. Gary is a shining example of what an excellent faculty member at GCC is all about."

Comments in Barlock's nomination included: "Mary Beth has a myriad of responsibilities and handles them all in an efficient manner. She is a wealth of information and always puts students first daily. Her work is accurate and continuously focuses tasks on students and employees.

"Mary Beth is the first to stay late or bring work home to make sure staff and students needs are met on time every time. She is progressive in her thinking and approach to everything, serves on many committees and is always willing to help. She is a pleasure to work with and makes students feel comfortable when discussing financial issues. She exemplifies a model employee and is an asset to GCC."

GCC President Jim Lorenson commended the employees on their service and dedication to the college and presented each of them with a gift certificate to the college bookstore.

Gouin has been employed at GCC for five years, while Barlock has been employed for 30 years.