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Staff Stars

October 2025 Staff Stars

Winners: AnaSofia Lara Proa, Hana Rex, Magen Despain, Travis Christian, Travis Hornbuckle

  • *AnaSofia Lara Proa, Specialist III - Cashiering
    • AnaSofia has been a sponge when it comes to absorbing all the information that's required for a cashier to know. She's been patient with herself and asks all the right questions. She is truly open to learning, likes to learn and embodies the core value of learning. We are lucky to have her.
    • AnaSofia has a remarkable ability to absorb new information. Her support for Spanish-speaking students in invaluable. She has a cheerful demeanor and is eager to support her team and students making her a joy to work with. Fantastic job, AnaSofia!
  • Angela Majors, Administrative Assistant - Division of Technical Specialties
    Angela is a great leader is dedicated and goes above and beyond with her responsibilities. She is reliable, proactive and always available to assist students and faculty. Her unwavering support and care have great impact on our community. We are fortunate to have Angela on our team.
  • Anjali Pai, Director - Staff Development
    Anjali elevated SLCC and is a natural coach who guides and inspires others. She can listen and makes everyone feel valued. Her presence builds trust and creates a workplace where people feel supported and empowered to do their best.
  • Ashlee Ostler, Coordinator - Cashiering
    For the span of about a month, it seemed that Ashlee was a magnet for escalated or upset customers. She could have easily been just as rude back to them, but she always kept a level head and sought to find ways to make things right with our customers. I know several cashiers look to Ashlee for comfort after difficult calls. Ashlee has the perfect balance of doing what's right while remaining empathetic.
  • Aziz Noori, Specialist III - Accounts Receivable
    I am impressed with the willingness of Aziz to do what is needed especially since we have been shorthanded the last few months. He has worked with Mohammad on NSF checks, collection agency payment and reports, and updating accounts in CRC. I love his attitude of cooperation. Thank you, Aziz.
  • Brett Iddison, Assistant Bursar - Cashiering
    • Brett tackles challenges effortlessly. He is dedicated to resolving issues quickly. He ensures things run efficiently. We can count on him to get things done. Brett thinks ahead and brings fresh ideas with confidence. You rock, Brett-thank you for your innovation, reliability and dedication!
    • Brett has embraced his responsibilities with integrity, reliability, and enthusiasm. His position supports multiple areas, and he manages them with a calm, steady presence. Brett's leadership has strengthened our office. He is professional, dependable, and solution-oriented, and is someone everyone can count on.
  • Byron Campos Rodriguez, Coordinator - Cashiering
    Byron looks for those that are alone or perhaps feel alone and looks to include them. At the Summer Business Services BBQ, Byron made room for another Bursar employee to sit with our table so they wouldn't be alone. It seems like such a simple gesture, but efforts like that are what make great leaders.
  • Celsa Bowman, Specialist III - Copy Center
    Thank you, Celsa Bowman and Printing Services for delivering much needed paper. Jordan Testing Center was in need of paper due to taking on a lot of students' exams because of the flood in the library at Redwood. Printing services stepped up and we appreciate them! Thank you, all!
  • Clay Cranford, Coordinator - Accounts Receivable
    Clay has been working to overhaul the sponsor program since last spring and has changed almost everything. We now have a welcome letter and a thank you breakfast for sponsors, and surveys. I appreciate his hard work, and it is leading to better relationships for SLCC!
  • Clayton Thompson, Specialist III - Facilities Office
    Clayton empties our recycling at the Jordan Campus. I see him multiple times a week keeping our campus free from all recycling that gets left out that are too big to fit in the can. He always has a smile, and I appreciate all that he does for the Jordan Student Services Center. Thank you, Clayton for your hard work! We see you and thank you!
  • David Fawcett, Assistant Bursar - Accounts Receivable
    David was instrumental in planning and execution of the Utah Banner Users Group 2025 Conference. He took the lead in securing sponsorships and organizing the Sponsor Village. David's efforts covered the conference and a surplus. The event received excellent feedback, and David's collaborative approach and professionalism were key to the positive outcome.
  • Dina Abbas, Program Associate II - eLearning
    Dina consistently demonstrates exceptional support and dedication in her role. She is patient, professional, and has a genuine willingness to help, and takes time to understand the unique needs of those she supports. Her empathy and problem-solving skills make her invaluable and she fosters a positive, supportive environment for all.
  • *Hana Rex, Advisor - Student Support Services
    Hana has done incredible work and is supportive of our team. She has built trusting relationships with her students at Highland High, and its clear they feel it. Hana genuinely listens and advocates for students and her team members. Her presence helps create a supportive and inclusive culture.
  • Hans Hardle, Coordinator - SAT Fiscal Office
    Hans has really taken a hands-on approach when it comes to teaching new hires. He is fully engaged with them and makes earnest efforts to help the new hires welcome and comfortable. I know I can trust Hans to teach new cashiers timely and accurate information in a way that is easy to digest and clear. Thanks for all you do for our department, Hans!
  • Jamie Dwyer, Librarian - Library Services
    Jamie has done a phenomenal job stepping up to facilitate a library workshop for a BIOL 1615 lab class! Jamie was willing to travel to a different campus location to teach a section. I so greatly appreciate her willingness to teach this class and her dedication to understanding and presenting the content well.
  • Jason Pickavance, Senior Associate Provost - Academic Affairs
    Jason has been a steady presence during some of the most turbulent times our institution has faced. Jason led with clarity, compassion, and unwavering professionalism. He leads with empathy and makes others feel heard and inspires us to lead with grace and to communicate with care. Jason is a true example of what it means to be a Staff Star.
  • Jessica Doyle, Coordinator - Human Resources
    Jessica makes SLCC a better place to work through her consistently high standards, service-oriented approach, and genuine care for others. She communicates with clarity and empathy, ensuring employees feel heard, supported, and valued. Her responsiveness and dedication to meeting employee needs create a positive, solutions-focused environment that helps people do their best work and feel part of SLCC community.
  • Jonny Tollestrup, Accounting Tech - Cashiering
    Jonny worked our phone lines every Friday during the summer semester with dedication and steadiness. I can trust Jonny to provide excellent customer care, and I also know he will tell me when he sees something is off. I know I can give Jonny a task and he will see it through to the end.
  • Katelinh Tran, Specialist III - Cashiering
    Katelinh is quick to find friends at any campus. She is active in the SEEA office and with her student club. She will do her part to add to the structure of any group in whatever capacity she can. She is such a crucial part of our Cashiering team. She is nice enough to listen to my stories about Ruby and actively listens to her colleagues and engages in conversations with them. We are lucky to have Katelinh.
  • Keith Slade, Librarian - Library Services
    Keith has done a phenomenal job stepping up to facilitate a library workshop for a BIOL 1615 lab class! Keith stepped in with short notice to teach a section at a different campus at a challenging time of day. I so greatly appreciate his willingness to teach this class and his dedication to understanding and presenting the content well.
  • Kennya Rodriguez Vargas, Specialist - Accounts Receivable
    Kennya has returned from maternity leave and despite challenges of little sleep, missing her baby, she shows up each day with her smile, warm energy, and unwavering commitment to help our students. It's been a joy to see her bring her baby by from time to time watching her blossom as a mother is a gift to witness. We're so grateful to have you back, Kennya. You are amazing!
  • Kevin Rothlisberger, Assistant Bursar - Cashiering
    • Kevin you are truly an exceptional colleague. You bring detail to every meeting and create an environment to make everyone welcome. Your team reflects your leadership. Thank you for taking the time to check in with me and chat — those moments mean a lot. Your kindness and thoughtfulness don't go unnoticed. You're awesome, Kevin!
    • Kevin is kind, caring and brings out the best in those around him. His meetings are engaging, collaborative and ensures every voice is heard. Beyond his departmental leadership he is involved in committees and organizations. Kevin embodies what it means to build and strengthen community at SLCC.
  • Kyle Ziegler, Lab Coordinator - Information Tech
    Kyle is a standout here on the Herriman campus, going above & beyond to assist students and staff with any IT issues that come up. For example, he spent two weeks working and researching how to fix an issue I had and did everything in his ability to fix and resolve the issue.
  • Leslie Moseley, Coordinator - Cashiering
    • Leslie consistently goes above and beyond when handling refunds. During an especially busy period, she managed the increased workload with grace and efficiency. She's always available to support our cashiers, answering questions promptly and finding solutions whenever challenges arise. Your dedication and problem-solving skills truly make a difference. You're fantastic, Leslie—thank you for all that you do!
    • Leslie is always very helpful especially when it comes to explaining refunds. There was some confusion due to the changes made this fall for refunds and Leslie always took the time to fully explain everything even when she had been asked the same question multiple times. I appreciate her patience and professionalism.
  • Loren Safford, Facilities Supervisor - Distribution
    Loren always has our back when it comes to Surplus issues and the Central Receiving Warehouse. He answers our questions large and small with complete knowledge and a willingness to help. The College is better because of Loren!
  • Lucy Smith, Director - Office of Learning Advancement
    Lucy is an inspirational leader and has a profound impact on our faculty and students. She devotes her time to Community Engaged courses and the Dental Hygiene program it is remarkable. Lucy has helped elevate the program expanded opportunities for our students. Lucy's work is a model of engaged leadership, and I am grateful for the opportunity to recognize her contributions.
  • *Magen Despain, Coordinator - Accounts Receivable
    Magen is one of the most talented, intelligent, and caring people. She took the time to cover me so I could take care of family needs, and she shows up for people in a supportive way. I know if she is doing that for me, she is doing it for others. Magen deserves every bit of recognition for her work and expertise!
  • Mayra Joaquin, Administrative Assistant - Cashiering
    Mayra did a tremendous job leading our school supple drive coordinating every detail. Thanks to her leadership we estimate our contribution at $1,000 in value. Mayra's efforts embody SLCC's difference in our community. Her work provided essential supplies and brought smiles to many young people and helped set them up for a successful school year.
  • Michael Toy, Librarian - Library Services
    Michael has done a phenomenal job stepping up to facilitate library workshops for the BIOL 1615 lab classes! I so greatly appreciate his willingness to teach many of these classes and his dedication to understanding and presenting the content well.
  • Mirian Hodgson, Coordinator - SAT Fiscal Office
    Working with sponsors can be difficult and Mirian does an amazing job remaining patient and professional. Recently one of the Embassy started getting behind on payments. Mirian worked extremely hard to find the correct contact, she stayed firm that payment was needed even with pressure from the sponsor, student, and other departments. In the end the Embassy was able to get caught up and students were registered for fall.
  • Mohammad Behrouz, Coordinator - Accounts Receivable
    When I need someone to get the job done, I can always count on Mohammad. His happy attitude contributes to the trust I and others have in him. He always helps with coverage on phones, and he is always willing to help where he is needed. He builds trust with our students and the Accounts Receivable office. Thank you, Mohammad, for your smile in the morning.
  • Natalia Esser, Coordinator - Human Resources
    Natalia was a great support for NEOED. She facilitated the process even when she was on vacation. She took the time to help with the workflow process to hire much needed help! She is cordial and professional! We are lucky to have her expertise and professionalism.
  • Pam Smith, Coordinator - Cashiering
    I am always so impressed with the number of people Pam has gotten to know throughout the different campuses at SLCC. She goes out of her way to make great connections and is patient with any student or staff member when they have questions or concerns. Even in hairy situations, Pam finds a way to make a connection with students and help them feel comfortable being here at SLCC.
  • Patty Turville, Manager - People and Workplace Culture
    Patty makes SLCC a better place to work through her hard work, dedication, optimism, and genuine care for others. She consistently strives to help those around her and is one of the kindest individuals you'll ever meet, bringing a positive spirit to everything she does.
  • Printing Services - Copy Center
    Thank you, Celsa Bowman and Printing Services for delivering much needed paper. Jordan Testing Center was in need of paper due to taking on a lot of students' exams because of the flood in the library at Redwood. Printing services stepped up and we appreciate them! Thank you, all!
  • Rachel Cappello, Assistant Bursar - Accounts Receivable
    • Rachel demonstrated innovation in leading the update of the Accounts Receivable phone menu. She redesigned the menu to improve clarity. She included Spanish-language option, FERPA notice, updated hours among many other things. Her ability to lead an inclusive, team-based effort while driving meaningful improvements exemplifies the spirit at SLCC.
    • Rachel has made significant progress in improving and modernizing sponsorship processes. Her innovations will have a lasting positive impact each year. Rachel's forward-thinking approach exemplifies the spirit of Innovation at SLCC.
  • Rebeca Garcia, Specialist III - Accounts Receivable
    • She's always ready to assist others.
    • While Rebeca is newer to our team is has quickly become someone, I know I can trust and rely on! Rebeca makes quick work of any assignment that is given to her. She is friendly and helpful to all students and always willing to lean a helping hand to other staff. Rebeca is a very valuable member of our team!
  • Ryan Thoroman, Bursar - Cashiering
    Ryan doesn't get enough credit for all he does throughout the college. He gives strong direction and support even when we are asked to go a different direction. He works closely with hiring committees and other committees to provide perspective. He provides advice when he can. Thank you, Ryan for all you do to work with each of our teams.
  • Sariah Mendoza, Coordinator - Cashiering
    Sariah is always working to contribute or improve processes. In processing Finder's payments, she has created templates to help in notifying collection agencies. She asks questions on procedures and recommends changes. While I don't always approve some changes, Sariah still provides fresh and new ideas.
  • Stacy Pearson, Coordinator - Career Services
    Stacy is an example of professional principles. Stacy is cordial, professional and collegial. She is a person who empowers her colleagues through example and support to use SLCC employment platforms with respect, finesse and professionalism. I am grateful to have reached out to her for assistance.
  • Tami Bunker, Administrative Assistant - EM Learning
    She contributes in so many ways--supporting Tutors and Success Managers. Her book with job responsibilities has rubbed off on me, and I believe others also. I appreciate all she does
  • *Travis Christian, Technician - Facilities Office
    Travis is a true asset with his work ethic, attitude and making the team the best they can. He is a truly valued team lead who is working to help part timers more involved. He is an asset to the team and to me in helping guide them. He is an outstanding employee.
  • *Travis Hornbuckle, Program Associate I - Contact Center
    Travis goes the extra mile! He drove the 15-passenger van for the Contact Center retreat. He was proactive ensuring safe transportation for our team. His willingness to take on additional responsibilities exemplifies leadership and teamwork. He is a true leader within our department. Thank you Travis our STAFF STAR!!!
  • Veronica Lybbert, Administrative Assistant - Dean SAT & Tech Specialties
    Veronica is a hard-working person, and she cares about student success. She organized major events and shows creativity, professionalism and initiative. She is a "let's make it happen" person. Veronica doesn't just think outside the box, she follows through with action, and that kind of drove makes a real impact.