Each year, North Florida Community College (NFCC) students who participate in the TRiO Student Support Services Program select an outstanding instructor. This year’s 2016 Student Support Services Instructor of the Year is NFCC English Instructor, Keisha Martinez.
NFCC students presented Martinez with the award at the Student Support Services 6th Annual Faculty Appreciation Reception on Wednesday, March 23.
“The faculty here at NFCC are among the best I have worked with,” said Suzie Cashwell, Director of Student Support Services at NFCC. “They balance the rigor of academics with the humanity of first generation students. This combination is leading to success and we want instructors to see this.”
Martinez was specifically recognized by students for unselfishly giving her knowledge and time to each student, enhancing student learning by giving critical feedback with a supportive attitude as well as her positive personality and outlook. “This is such an honor,” said Martinez. "I couldn’t ask for better people to work with.”
Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally funded TRiO program that focuses on students who are first generation in college (at least one parent does not have bachelor’s degrees), low-income and/or have a disability. Each year, the SSS program provides support to 200 eligible students to increase their retention, graduation and transfer rates. SSS Advisors work closely with students to choose the right classes, solve problems, communicate with instructors and plan for the future as well as many other support services.
NFCC is proud to recognize Professor Keisha Martinez for her achievement.