CCC Honors Outstanding Faculty and Staff with Annual Jean Harry Francis Employee Awards

Kimberly Ashley, Continuing Education Coordinator, has been named the 2025 Jean Harry Francis Outstanding Staff of the Year. Nominated by a colleague, Ashley was praised for her tireless work ethic, collaborative spirit, and compassion-driven leadership. Her expertise and advocacy for CCC have made a lasting impact on the college community.

“Kimberly is a true team player and a powerful example of what it means to serve with heart,” her nominator wrote. “She consistently helps others succeed and brings warmth and professionalism to everything she does.”

Niki Bliss-Carroll, Department Chair of English, Communications, and Academic Study Skills, has been awarded the 2025 Jean Harry Francis Excellence in Teaching Award. Her nominations, submitted by a student and a fellow faculty member, highlight her dynamic classroom presence and deep care for students. Described as a “forever student” herself, Bliss-Carroll encourages a culture of continuous learning and personal growth. Her student wrote, “She is the best teacher I’ve ever had. Because of her, I am becoming a better writer and student.”

A colleague noted, “Her classroom is both structured and joyful, a place where students are challenged and supported.”

The awards are named in honor of long-time CCC employee Jean Harry Francis, who worked at the college from 1971 to 2003. Throughout her distinguished career, Francis devoted herself to helping students and was recognized with the Excellence in Teaching Award in 1994.