Faculty and Staff Award Recognition
Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Jean Harry Francis Employee Awards!
In 2021, the Cleveland Community College Foundation renamed its employee awards program in memory of long-time employee, Jean Harry Francis. Francis, who passed away in July 2020, received the Excellence in Teaching Award in 1994. Francis was a College employee from 1971 to 2003.
Allen Dunkleman
2024 Excellence in Teaching Award – Full-Time Faculty
Al Dunkleman has been a Sociology instructor at CCC for 22 years and continues to be as passionate about teaching as if it were his first year. He takes his role as instructor and mentor very seriously, and takes the time to learn who his students are. He cares about them individually, and he shows it by helping them become better versions of themselves. Al’s passion for his students leads him to continue to grow as an instructor, even when it means stepping out of his comfort zone.
“This award is extra-special as it is presented in honor and memory of Jean Harry Francis. Ms. Francis was my Dean when I began teaching here in the Fall of 2002. She was a delightful lady who greatly supported me and was instrumental in my hiring as the first full-time sociology instructor here at the college. As I constantly share with my students, sociology is a quest for understanding – understanding yourself, understanding others, and understanding our greater society. If a student benefits from any one of these components, then it has been time well spent.”
Dena Fox
2024 Excellence in Teaching Award – Adjunct Faculty
Dena Fox is a part-time instructor in the Phlebotomy program. For 11 years, she’s patiently worked with students to help them master the skills required to be a phlebotomist. She’s there to assist, direct, encourage and support students throughout the program. Dena works hard to ensure students are placed in suitable work environments for clinical rotations, and has helped many students find jobs.
“It is so heartwarming to be recognized by students and staff for this award. We strive for excellence in education. I am so proud to be a part of each student journey in life.”
Steven Seate
2024 Outstanding Full-Time Staff of the Year Award
Steven works as the Business Services Associate and has been at CCC for over two years. He goes above and beyond his job duties on a regular basis to ensure staff and faculty have what they need, and to help others accomplish a task. He also doesn’t hesitate to help a student or campus visitor, and he does it all with a friendly, patient attitude.
“When I retired from law enforcement, I wanted to find an employer that would allow me to continue to serve this community, as well as an employer that treats its employees like family. Cleveland Community College has provided both and much more. The faculty and staff are always so willing to help not only our students, but each other as well. This teamwork makes it a pleasure to come to work each day. I am happy to be a part of the CCC Family and am truly honored to be selected as the Jean Harry Francis Full-Time Staff Member of the Year.”