Clark State Community College celebrated its 54th Annual Charter Night Tuesday, February 18 at the Hollenbeck Bayley Creative Arts and Conference Center in downtown Springfield. The annual event serves to remind the college and community about the establishment of Clark State’s charter in 1966 to operate as a post-secondary institution in the region.
Clark State presented its annual Diversity and Inclusion Award, this year honoring Nina Wiley, dean of student engagement and support services for Clark State.
The award is a symbol of the success of the College’s mission to increase diversity and create a campus climate that welcomes and supports all individuals. The award recognizes individuals involved in higher education and community leaders, who have implemented innovative strategies to promote the development of the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the needs of a multicultural society.
Nina recognizes many Clark State students are faced with challenges relating to financial concerns, housing and food insecurities, physical or health well-being or social and adjustment issues. Through her work with the Office of Student Support, Nina strives to provide outreach, resources, referrals and follow-up services to foster student growth and success.
“I am honored to receive the Diversity and Inclusion Award! As an institution we intentionally focus on the dignity and potential of every student. I am proud to work with my colleagues at Clark State as we create opportunities for a safe and supportive environment and promote mutual respect among students, faculty and staff,” Wiley said.
In 2018 she established a Grab-and Go food pantry on campus and developed a partnership with Second Harvest Food bank to provide for those in need of nutritional assistance. Every October Nina heads up the Annual Volley for the Cure campaign which raises funds for the Breast Cancer Endowment Fund of Clark County, and she was most recently appointed to the Mercy Health Partners Board of Trustees.
Dr. Jo Alice Blondin, president of Clark State said Wiley remains dedicated to all aspects of student wellness and works tirelessly to help them overcome obstacles to meet their educational and personal needs while also serving the College as a member of the safety committee, the Title IX deputy coordinator, advisor for the Phi Theta Kappa honor society and a long-time member of the Behavioral Crisis Intervention team.
This year, 32 employees of Clark State were recognized for their years of service to the college. Faculty and Staff Professional Excellence Awards were also presented. Area legislators, retirees, members of the Clark State Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Directors were in attendance for the Charter Night festivities.
Additional awards at Charter Night included:
Faculty Professional Excellence Awards
Carin Burr
Scott Dawson
Dianne Roux
Stephanie Thompson
Adjunct Faculty Professional Excellence Awards
Dawn Hall
Jim McKitrick
Staff Professional Excellence Awards
Raphael Allen
Amy Russell
Mary Adelaide Taylor
Beth Tremains