Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Staff Contact:

Administrative Assistant to the President

for Public Relations & Minority Concerns

JONES, THOMAS RECEIVE DCC 2003

OUTSTANDING FACULTY, STAFF HONORS


W. George Jones	E. Carol Thomas
Outstanding Faculty Award	Outstanding Staff Award

DANVILLE, VA, June 6, 2003 -- Two Danville Community College employees have been recognized for outstanding service at the college. W. George Jones, Associate Professor of Psychology and Religion, was named the Outstanding Faculty Member for 2003, while E. Carol Thomas, Financial Services Practioner in the Business Office, was honored with the Outstanding Staff Award for 2003. Both were nominated by fellow college employees, and they each received a plaque and cash award from the DCC Educational Foundation.

Jones joined DCC’s faculty 35 years ago, and has taught religion and psychology classes. He also has served as campus chaplain for many years. Over the years, Jones has guided student groups, including coordinating the College’s Honors Program and working with the Christian Student Fellowship. In addition, Jones was cited for his work in helping to establish the Estelle H. Womack Museum of Natural History.

Prior to coming to DCC, Jones served as pastor of Rural Retreat (VA) Methodist Church. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in General Science and Mathematics from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VA Tech); and a Master of Divinity and Master of Theology degrees from Duke University.

Jones says he “particularly values the professional openness and closeness with the DCC community”, and is humbled by the recognition by his colleagues.

Carol Thomas joined the DCC staff in August 1992. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Greensboro College. Thomas was cited for her work in the Business office and her commitment and enthusiasm in performing her job duties.

The Danville native says she enjoys working with the “diverse population of students, and with DCC’s faculty and staff.

“Working at DCC presents both daily challenges and rewards for me because I believe that I am here to help people accomplish their goals, and in turn, contribute to DCC’s mission,” Thomas says.