OCNews

The nomination period is closed and judging is complete. It’s getting closer to the time for OC to celebrate its peers. 

Finalists for the 2021 Employee Excellence Awards include (in alphabetical order): Dr. Blair Baldwin, Eric Corneau, Dr. Julie Dais, Dr. Carl Doige, Tim Dorn, Andrew Duffy, Jacqueline Dyment, Tom Esson, Dawn Govan, Chantale Hutchinson, Cari Jahns, Dr. Youry Khmelevsky, Zuzana Lehocky, Mike Minions, Karen Maeers, Colette Martin, Nelson Murray, Kimberley Noakes, Chris Peiper, Dr. Lindsey Reinholz, and Bobbie Wyatt. 

With the finalists announced, the 10th annual recognition event will roll out a little differently this year.  

“This was an unprecedented year for Okanagan College, and the committee is excited to celebrate the work of the entire institution this year while recognizing the achievements of finalists,” said Laura Thurnheer, Associate Dean of OSB and Employee Excellence Awards Co-Chair. 

The Okanagan College Employee Excellence Awards program recognizes significant contributions of employees and was developed in consultation with the College's employee groups.  It complements the existing Distinguished Service Award and the Employee Long Service Recognition program. Award categories include: Career Achievement, Continuous Improvement, Key Directions, Leadership, Scholarly and Creative Activity, Service Excellence, Strong Start and Teaching Excellence. 

Due to restrictions on gathering sizes, the Employee Excellence Awards Committee is investigating options to recognize finalists and recipients, while also broadcasting a message from President Neil Fassina to the entire OC community. OC is committed to holding a safe event in line with evolving Provincial Health Office guidelines; please stay tuned for details. 

Employees are invited to send in their milestones – credentials, publications and other awards – to share with the OC community as part of a special presentation. Send details to deadair@okanagan.bc.ca by Sept. 30 for inclusion.