On May 8, the cafeteria received a temporary makeover to make way for the third annual Associated Student Government Staff and Faculty Appreciation Banquet. ASG President Pro-Tempore Melissa Mata charismatically narrated the occasion which highlighted the outstanding works of over 30 nominees.
A short PowerPoint presentation by ASG initiated the ceremony with photos remembering this year’s events.
Department of Biology Chairman Rodney Olsen was selected as this year’s outstanding faculty nominee. Students described him as inspirational and one student appreciated his “willingness to help students who aren’t even in his classes.” Olsen also sits on the Board of Directors of the Sierra Foothills Conservancy which works to preserve the grasslands, foothills, and forests between Yosemite and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Erin Pistacchio, the outstanding staff nominee, was unable to attend the event. She is the Administrative Secretary to Robert Fox, Vice-President of Student Services and Dean of Students.
“I’m sure [her selection as outstanding staff nominee] has to do with the service. Ms. Pistacchio is a very service oriented person,” said Fox. He described her as a team player and longtime colleague. “Oh my, usually I can just name off a date or a year. It’s as though I’ve known her forever,” he said.
Both Math, Science and Engineering and Guidance and Counseling were highlighted as outstanding divisions.
Students nominated those honored at the event.
Faculty, staff, and ASG cordially conversed as attendees came to the realization that the year had come to an end. Feelings of joy, relief, and a job well-done permeated the scene. Hugs accompanied goodbyes as friends and coworkers celebrated one of the last nights together until the next semester.
ASG coordinated the decorations for the occasion. Tall, slender glass vases filled with fresh-cut roses and glass beads sat atop red-clothed tables. The permanent, multicultural flags hanging from the ceiling appeared to compliment the setting.
A colorful tossed salad with either ranch or red-wine vinaigrette stood at the frontline of what was a beautiful catering job. Pasta with red, pesto, or meat sauce was served. Garlic bread rolls as well as Lasagna filled the air with the scent of an Italian restaurant. For desert, ice cream with whipped cream and raspberries.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, ASG President David Horowitz delivered a speech of how he was initially disappointed in his inability to attend a four-year college straight out of high school, but how FCC completely changed his mind.
“I’ve had the time of my life here,” said Horowitz.
Dr. Ned Doffoney, President of FCC, got the last word adding, “Drive home safely!” Doffoney will not be returning in the Fall because he will then be the chancellor of the North Orange County Community College District.
