San Juan College recognized outstanding employees during the Fall 2025 Convocation.
Awards and Recognition
The annual distinctions highlight individuals and teams who embody SJC’s values of service, innovation and community.
Each award is sponsored by the San Juan College Foundation, which provides recipients with awards and stipends in recognition of their exceptional contributions.
Fran Sandoval Support Staff Excellence Award
The Fran Sandoval Support Staff Excellence Award honors a staff member whose work advances the mission and spirit of San Juan College.
- Recipient: Charity Serrano, Senior Administrative Assistant in the Teacher Education/TEACHUP Program
- Stipend: $2,000
Dean described Serrano as “someone whose commitment to exceptional customer service and unwavering support for both colleagues and students makes her a truly irreplaceable part of our college family.”
Established in 2004, this award continues to recognize staff whose dedication enhances the daily life of the college community.
Physical Plant Staff Excellence Award
The Physical Plant Staff Excellence Award recognizes those who provide critical behind-the-scenes support to keep the campus running smoothly.
- Recipient: Steven Johnson, Building Services team
- Stipend: $1,000
Dean described Johnson as “quiet, observant and leading with a thoughtful demeanor that allows him to connect with those around him.” She added, “His commitment to service and dedication to enhancing the college experience for everyone reflect the values we uphold at San Juan College.”
Stuart and Jane Wilson Adjunct Faculty Award
This award honors outstanding adjunct faculty who makes a significant impact on student learning and engagement.
- Recipient: Mark Everson, School of Humanities
- Stipend: $500
Dean described Everson as “a role model, connector and champion for learning.” Students praise his classes as “engaging, well-structured and filled with real-life applications.” His approach empowers students to take ownership of their education and inspires confidence in their learning journey.
Golden Sun Award
The Golden Sun Award, first introduced in 2001, is a peer-to-peer recognition that passes from one employee to the next each term.
- Recipient: Harley Prinster, School Operations Coordinator, School of Business, IT & Social Sciences
- Presenter: Jill Bishop, Spring 2024 recipient
Bishop described Prinster as “a natural problem solver who approaches her work with creativity and purpose. She’s always evaluating, improving and bringing fresh ideas to the table.”
This rotating honor symbolizes the light and positivity that each recipient contributes to the SJC community
President’s Service Excellence Award
Each fall, San Juan College President Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass presents the Presidential Service Excellence Award to a department or entity that goes above and beyond in serving the campus community.
- Recipient: Food for Thought Team
- Stipend: $500
Dr. Pendergrass commended the team’s dedication, saying, “They’ve created a space where students know they will be met with dignity, understanding, and solutions. Their efforts have helped break barriers, ease burdens, and allow students to focus on their goals without worrying about food insecurity.”
Recognizing Excellence and Gratitude
San Juan College extends its sincere thanks to the donors and the San Juan College Foundation for supporting these awards and for helping make this recognition possible each year. The achievements of these recipients reflect the college’s continued commitment to excellence, service and community engagement.
