Crafton Hills College Honors Its Classified Professionals

Publish Date: June 11, 2026

On June 11, the Crafton Hills College community gathered for an appreciation luncheon to celebrate the backbone of the campus: its outstanding Classified Professionals. The event was packed with gratitude, laughter, recognition, and served as a heartfelt "thank you".

Adding to the festive atmosphere, attendees enjoyed a raffle featuring over $500 in gift cards, culminating in the exciting giveaway of an iPad as the grand prize.

A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the annual Employee of the Year awards. Classified Senate President Karen Peterson kept the energy high, entertaining the crowd with a mix of humorous and deeply heartfelt tributes to each nominee, highlighting the unique ways they lift up the campus community.

2026 Employee of the Year Recipients:

Classified Professional of the Year, Rebecca Pompa. Rebecca was recognized for her tireless, behind-the-scenes dedication. Rebecca is known across campus for her lightning-fast responsiveness and her constant willingness to step in and help wherever she is needed.

Faculty of the Year, Sam Truong. Sam was praised for consistently going above and beyond for students, faculty, and staff alike, all while remaining a vibrant and active participant in campus life.

Administrator of the Year, Dan Word. Dan was celebrated for his supportive leadership and deep commitment to employee growth. Dan has a unique talent for making those around him feel genuinely valued and empowered.

The event also featured the Classified Senate President’s Awards, which were presented to Rosemarie Hansen and Cyndie St. Jean in honor of their exceptional service and lasting contributions to the Classified Senate.

The success of Crafton Hills College is powered by people who show up every day for our students, colleagues, and the broader campus community.

Congratulations to all of the 2026 nominees:

Classified Professionals

·         Alvaro Sanchez-Reyes (Maintenance & Operations)

·         Christina Sweeting (Career Technical Education)

·         Jaime Hernandez (Technology Services)

·         Juanita Sousa (Financial Aid)

·         Kevin Palkki (Theatre)

·         Rebecca Pompa (Maintenance & Operations)

·         Rosemarie Hansen (Anatomy & Physiology)

·         Tracy Gray (Technology Services)

·         Vicky Barra (Student Services)

Faculty

·         Chloe De Los Reyes (English)

·         Debbie Bogh (Counseling)

·         Glen Thronson (Fire Technology)

·         Kelly Boebinger (Chemistry)

·         Mark McConnell (Music)

·         Meridyth McLaren (Child Development)

·         Sam Truong (Anatomy & Physiology)

·         TL Brink (Philosophy and Psychology)

Administrators

·         Aaron Oxendine (Technology Services)

·         Amanda Ward (Public Safety)

·         Dan Word (Career Technical Education)

·         Jeff Smith (Student Instructional Support)

·         Josh Orosco (Maintenance & Operations)

·         Larry Aycock (Admissions & Records)

·         LaTesha Hagler (EOPS/CARE/CalWORKs)

·         Matt White (Student Accessibility Services)

·         Sara Butler (Language Arts and Academic Services)