GCC staff receive awards of excellence

IRONWOOD - Two employees of Gogebic Community College - Connie Hicks, of Fifield, Wis., and Sue Forbes, of Minocqua, Wis. - recently received awards of excellence for their contributions to the school.

Hicks, a faculty member teaching mechanical design, engineering technology developmental mathematics and English, received the Award for Excellence and Innovation in Teaching.

Forbes received the Award for Excellence in Staff Services for her role as director of financial aid.

The teaching award recognizes extraordinary accomplishment in all aspects of teaching and learning at GCC, while the staff award recognizes excellence in service and significant contributions among employees to the school.

GCC President Jim Lorenson commended both employees on their service and dedication to GCC and presented them with Dell Venue tablets.

Forbes is a member of the state of Michigan and Wisconsin Associations of Student Financial Aid Administrators, along with the Midwest and national associations.

"Sue is highly respected and one of the most professional members of the GCC family," Lorenson said. "She volunteers to lead the Upper Peninsula in financial aid training and education, volunteering her time to present financial aid workshops to students and parents across the U.P. and northern Wisconsin. Excellence is what she portrays and excellence is what she is."

Hicks serves on the executive board of the Literacy Task Force of Northern Wisconsin, helping those with dyslexia and related reading challenges.

"Connie demonstrates an authentic passion and determination for student success," said Ken Trzaska, GCC's dean of instruction,said. "She truly lives by the motto 'doing whatever it takes' to help her students succeed. I have seen her at work in the classroom and outside the classroom, and the respect she commands with her students and peers is inspiring."

In keeping with Hick's health literacy interests and in memory of loved ones who have passed away, she also serves on the Crary Foundation Lung Cancer Endowment Fund Board at the Marshfield Clinic, representing patients and caregivers. 

Forbes has been employed at GCC for 20 years, while Hicks has been teaching for 18 years.