Ventura College Custodian Selected as VCCCD 2021 Classified Employee of the Year

CAMARILLO, Calif. - March 30, 2021 - PRLog -- With his trademark "Ask Me" button showcasing his helpful attitude, Ventura College's Alwin Sauers Jr. has been named the 2021 Ventura County Community College District Classified Employee of the Year. The VCCCD bestows this honor in accordance with the California Community Colleges (CCC) Board of Governors, who will now consider Sauers for the CCC statewide award. The award recognizes classified professionals who positively influence countless lives by showing the utmost commitment to our community colleges, by upholding professional ethics and standards and by serving the community with purpose and passion. They embody the best of California's community colleges.

Fellow VCCCD Classified Employee of the Year nominees included Thomas "Tommy" Arellano of Moorpark College, and Gabriela Rodriguez of Oxnard College.

"These nominees have been vital in maintaining the District's outstanding educational opportunities for our approximately 31,000 students, despite the COVID-19 pandemic," said Chancellor Greg Gillespie. "The District is honored to employ these three leaders as their commitment allows us to maintain a firm foundation for academic and career fulfillment at Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges."

Arellano is the athletic equipment manager at Moorpark College. He is known for his unlimited skills and contributions to the athletic department during his 39 years with the District. Arellano is an expert at repairing essentially any equipment breakage, is highly skilled in technology and has a knack for growing relationships with students, alumni and staff.

Rodriguez is the student activities specialist for Oxnard College. For the past five years, she has served students and staff with a passion that is imperative to maintaining OC's high-quality enrichment and academic offerings. As a powerful advocate for student success, Rodriguez serves in myriad roles on college and District committees and with community organizations. She chairs the Graduation Committee, tri-chairs the college's Guided Pathways Committee and is an active member of the Student Equity and Success Committee. Rodriguez also initiated the OC Food Pantry program for students in need.

Sauers is a custodian at Ventura College and Ventura College East Campus, where his focus for over seven years has been on serving students. Sauers is an ever-present fixture on the campuses, making him a VC and VCEC ambassador available to help students. With his "Ask Me" button and gentle demeanor, every student feels comfortable asking him for assistance. As an essential worker, Sauers takes special care in guaranteeing the cleanliness of the campuses during the pandemic and always.

For more info: https://www.vcccd.edu/.