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Recognizing Excellence: 2025 Staff Awards

Nine FVTC staff members recognized for going above and beyond

a group of people posing for a photo in front of a FVTC backdrop.

Nine Fox Valley Technical College employees were honored on Tuesday, May 6 during an annual staff awards ceremony.

The event recognizes exceptional staff achievements in the areas of instruction, leadership, support services, community service and technology. Each award recipient is selected by a different committee made up of fellow college employees.


This year’s recipients are:

Kim Olson | Associate Vice President for College Effectiveness

Carol Mishler Leadership Award
Established by Dr. Carol Mishler, former Fox Valley Technical College Vice President, this award recognizes excellence among the management staff. A manager is eligible for this award by demonstrating leadership in important initiatives that advance the college, delivering outstanding service to internal and external customers, and is respected as a professional by those inside and outside the college.

Beth Westfahl | Instructor, Supply Chain Solutions

H. Victor Baldi Excellence in Instruction Award
To be considered for this award, which was established in honor of former FVTC President Dr. Vic Baldi, the faculty nominee must foster a high level of student/customer satisfaction, promote high standards for student performance and retention, and act as an exemplary role model and Fox Valley Tech representative in his/her area of expertise.

Mary Retlich | Administrative Support II

ESPA Award of Excellence
This award was established by the Educational Support Personnel Association (ESPA) and is presented each year to a support staff member who exhibits commitment to the college, lifelong learning and their community.

Lisa Schmid | Director for Enrollment Management

Gaylord K. Unbehaun Community Service Award
Criteria to be considered for this community service award include leadership or service as a key collaborator on a project that has had a major impact on a community, exemplary leadership with other organizations, community members, and/or other staff in successfully implementing the project, and organization of resources to support the effort, such as people, donations, and/or materials or other contributions.

Andi Bauer, Kris Groell, Lydia Lybert, Megan Rycerz and Jessica Schilcher | Client Reporting Team

Robert G. Sternhagen Innovation through Technology Award
This award was named after Bob Sternhagen for his numerous contributions to the FVTC Health Simulation Technology Center and 42 years of service, and highlights leadership and collaboration of a project or initiative exemplifying high-tech teaching and learning.


Congratulations to all of our award winners!

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