Gadsden State Community College students and employees were honored during the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) 27th Annual Conference recently held in Birmingham.  The Chancellor’s Award Ceremony is part of the conference and designed to recognize college employees who have demonstrated outstanding professional service, creativity, and a dedication to community service.  Through the Art Exhibition, students and employees of the ACCS are allowed the opportunity to showcase their talents and creative ideas. 

The Gadsden State Art Department was recognized and five students were awarded honors in various categories.  Sarah VanVleck of Ashville won Best of Show and first place in painting.  Nathaniel Byrde of Gadsden won second place in painting and in drawing; Hunter Amberson of Gadsden placed first in drawing. In the sculpture category, Gadsden residents Chelsea Morris won first place while Steve Surdick placed third.  These students attend art classes on the Wallace Drive Campus.  Art instructors Dennis Sears and Mario Gallardo also received awards in the employee competition. The art works were on display in the Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center Complex during the conference.

In addition to the art awards, four faculty and staff members represented the College as Chancellor Award nominees.  Stewart Davis, director of physical plant, was nominated as outstanding administrator.  David Murdock, English instructor, and Gary Udaka, welding instructor, were nominated in the academic and technical faculty category respectively.  Vivian Burnett, transcript evaluator in the Registrar’s Office, was nominated in the support staff category.  All nominees and award recipients were presented a plaque for their dedicated service and accomplishments.

[Photo ID left to right: Steve Surdick, Chelsea Morris, Sarah VanVleck, Dennis Sears, Mario Gallardo, Hunter Amberson. Not pictured – Nathaniel Byrde.]