MCC Daily Tribune

Passing of Char Guess Bardques, EOP Retiree

The MCC family mourns the passing of Char Guess Bardques, retired counselor/assistant professor with the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), on September 28, 2023.

She joined MCC in 2001 as a counselor with the rank of instructor for the EOP and was promoted to the rank of assistant professor in 2006. Throughout her career, she was known for her positive attitude, compassion, sense of humor, and dedication to students and their success.

As an actively engaged member of the Native American community at large who was tuned into the concerns, challenges and successes of students, she was invaluable to the EOP team. Her extensive knowledge of community-based programs and alliances especially benefited the underprivileged population at MCC over the years.

Her service to the College included having been a member of the Diversity Council/ Diversity Interest Group and the Student Services Mid-management Initiative Team.

In addition to her role as advisor of the student organizations Native American Cultural Society and the Pan African Club, she co-facilitated the Meet and Greet Circle, which provides a safe, supportive environment where Native American students can share their academic goals and concerns and learn about available resources and various learning opportunities. She also led the Angle Group, an outreach extension of the MCC Native American Initiative Program to ensure students are informed about scholarship opportunities, various support services, and college/community events.

Additionally, she served for many years as an MCC liaison in the Native American SUNY: Western Consortium, which was created by SUNY to address the higher education needs of Native American students and communities.

After 15 years of service at MCC, she retired in 2015.

Professor Guess Bardques earned a master’s degree in counselor education from SUNY Brockport and a bachelor’s from Central State University in Ohio.

She is survived by her daughters, Melinda Thomas and Clenita Thomas; three grandchildren; a sibling; and nieces and nephew. 

Calling hours are Saturday, October 14, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Falvo Funeral Home, 1395 N. Goodman St., Rochester, NY 14609. Read her obituary online.

MCC extends condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues. We are grateful for her many contributions and service to MCC.

DeAnna Burt-Nanna
Office of the President
10/11/2023