The Monday Minute with Dr. Williams | Montgomery College, Maryland

May 27, 2025

Congratulations to the Class of 2025! It was truly inspiring to watch our newest graduates cross the stage on Friday and step confidently into the next chapter of their journeys. I can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make in our communities and beyond. Thank you to everyone who made commencement such a joyful celebration. From the faculty and staff who guided students through their academic endeavors, to the many employees who organized and worked at commencement to ensure a seamless event—your dedication made all the difference.

With this message, Monday Minute will pause for the summer. Whether you’re teaching, learning, supporting students, or taking some well-deserved time off, I hope the months ahead bring you a chance to recharge and renew.

Congratulations to Our Outstanding Faculty and Staff

This year’s Celebration of Excellence event last week spotlighted a number of honorees, including those receiving team effort awards, innovation grants, and outstanding staff, faculty, and administrator recognitions. Congratulations to those who were recognized and to these exceptional individuals:

This year’s Staff Member of the Year is Ms. Cynthia Lee Mauris, training and development coordinator, who empowers MC faculty and staff through engaging, high-impact programs in leadership, communication, and productivity. Known for her clear communication and supportive learning environments, Ms. Mauris fosters confidence and collaboration. Her adaptable, thoughtful approach inspires growth and real-world application. With consistent excellence, attention to detail, and a focus on meaningful connections, Ms. Mauris is a standout in the College’s professional development efforts.

The Part-Time Faculty Member of the Year is Professor W. Michael McDavit, who has transformed environmental biology into a life-changing experience for students since 2015. With 38 years at the Environmental Protection Agency, Professor McDavit brings real-world insight to engaging, hands-on teaching. He mentors, inspires, and creates a joyful, inclusive classroom. From field trips to poetry, his dynamic approach sparks new passions and career paths, leaving a profound impact on students.

The Full-Time Faculty Member of the Year is Dr. Angela K. Nissing, who has advanced student success and faculty development at MC since 2006. Dr. Nissing led the transformation of the English as a Second Language (ESL) placement process, benefiting over 6,000 students with a more inclusive approach. As a professor and former department chair, she blends high standards with compassion. Her leadership, scholarship, and authenticity inspire both students and colleagues, making her a true force for positive change.

Generous Community Support for MC

The Montgomery College Alumni Association’s annual fundraising event, “Dogfishing for MC Scholarships,” held this month hosted 400 supporters and raised nearly $10,000 to support scholarships. Along with funds raised from a raffle and a silent auction, the Dogfish Head Alehouse restaurant in Gaithersburg generously donated 15% of its sales for the day. This event is a testament to the loyalty that faculty, staff, alumni, and our community feel for our students and our mission.

Belonging Matters at MC

The College’s focus on belonging has been especially important this year. As we move into summer, I encourage you to continue to learn about the multitude of lived experiences that create our society. June is LGBTQ+ Pride Monthnew window and Caribbean American Heritage Monthnew window and the MC Library has robust guides to literature, films, and other resources that celebrate these histories. On June 12, Loving Daynew window acknowledges the anniversary of the landmark 1967 Loving vs. Virginia decision, which successfully challenged the legal ban on interracial marriage. A bit further into the month, Juneteenth marks the end of slavery in Texas, which was delayed by several years after the end of the Civil War, and is explored in this vibrant Library resource guidenew window. I thank and appreciate our library team, who keep us informed and engaged all year long, as we cultivate a sense of belonging for everyone at the College.

With Raptor Regards,
Dr. Jermaine F. Williams signature
Dr. Jermaine F. Williams
President
@DrWilliams_MCnew window

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